2015 3 24 by Guyana Chronicle

GUYANA

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

No. 104138 TUESDAY MARCH 24, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

Guyana’s pristine rain forests declared ‘hallowed ground’

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Donald Rodney

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…by President Ramotar

Rodney feared ‘death by the dictatorship’ 11

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President Donald Ramotar addresses the International Day of Forests and the Tree celebration at the International Conference Centre yesterday

Andrew ‘Six-Head’ Lewis endorses PPP/C Page

PPP/C’s Manzoor Nadir, centre, with ‘Six-Head Lewis’ and the Chronicle’s Tajeram Mohabir in Albouystown last evening

NEVER MIND WHAT HE SAYS…

Granger is a carbon 12 copy of Burnham Page

Forbes Burnham

David Granger

Greenidge’s IDB challenge an abuse of judicial process 13 Page

– says onboard with ruling party to 'knock out' APNU+AFC Alliance

GECOM assures Code of Conduct Taxi driver for political 3 shot on Laing Avenue 13 parties coming Anil Nandlall

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Guyana’s pristine rain forests declared ‘hallowed ground’

…by President Ramotar By Clifford Stanley FOR the Government of Guyana, the 18 million plus hectares of pristine, tropical rain forests is “hallowed territory” and

no action will be taken to jeopardise its many values that others may take for granted, President Donald Ramotar has said. The President gave the assurances while delivering

President Donald Ramotar, Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper, and Head of the Guyana Forestry Commission James Singh during the ceremony to commemorate International Day of Forests and the Tree yesterday

Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper examines forestry products at the exhibition to commemorate International Day of Forests and the Tree yesterday

a feature address at a commemorative ceremony for International Day of Forests and the Tree 2015 yesterday. The venue was the Guyana International Conference Centre at Liliendaal. Those in attendance included Min-

ister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud; Prime Ministerial Candidate for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, Elisabeth Harper; members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of local and

international organisations including the Foundation for Forest Management and Production Control of Suriname; the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) and the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) for

Latin America and the Caribbean; saw-millers, loggers, foresters, secondary school children, staffers of the Guyana Forestry Commission and other stakeholders in the forest sector.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

GECOM assures Code of Conduct for political parties coming

“IT is the intent of GECOM (Guyana Elections Commission) to resurrect the 2011 political parties Code of Conduct,” the body’s Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally has assured. Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle in a telephone interview, he explained that a draft Code is expected to be circulated to political parties, which will be invited to make recommendations to improve

the document. Queries on an update were made in light of the fact that public meetings, hosted by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) and the Alliance of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), are in full swing. Additionally, the parties are expected to hit the campaign trail with greater intensity closer to Nomination Day,

Dr. Steve Surujbally

April 7. According to Dr. Surujbally the draft code is completed. The code of conduct for political parties is a guide of expected behaviours in the lead up to the May 11 General and Regional Elections. Once political parties sign onto the Code of Conduct it is expected that the parties abide by the protocols documented in the code, all in the interest

of free and fair General and Regional elections. The General Secretaries of the Coalition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Joseph Harmon, and the Alliance For Change (AFC), David Patterson, were unavailable for comment when contacted by this newspaper. The advantage of having such an agreement in place, according to GECOM, relates

to being able to guard against confrontational and vitriolic election campaign meetings/ rallies and statements. Contesting parties signing the code are viewed as demonstrating their willingness to implement their respective election campaign strategies in ways that contribute to the maintenance of peace and tranquility throughout and beyond the elections. (Vanessa Narine)

Guyana’s pristine rain forests declared... environmental best practices, and in a manner that contributes to combating climate change globally.” He added: “We join with other like-minded countries and partners in insisting that the international community and developed nations make good on their commitments, both financial and in reducing emissions of greenhouse gases to agreed levels, so

Secondary school students showing keen interest in a booth showcasing forestry products at the exhibition to commemorate International Day of Forests and the Tree yesterday

HAVEN OF BIODIVERSITY During his feature address President Ramotar stressed that Guyana’s forests are an untapped haven of rich and varied biodiversity which provides innumerable environmental services that contribute to the maintenance of not only the national ecosystem but regional and global ecosystems as well. He said: “The value of our forests is therefore unimaginable, particularly for our indigenous brothers and sisters.” He said that even though the Government is constantly bombarded by financially sound investors to access forest land for oil palm plantations, large scale agriculture and other lucrative projects, this will not happen. Not if it entails large scale savannah clearing of forest lands, he said. He said that Guyana will continue to show its unwavering commitment to good forest governance as it practises sustainable, multiple-use forest activities. He said that in this vein

the Government has demanded, and will continue to demand, that all large scale forest utilisation projects be done in keeping with the relevant legislation, inclusive of the requirement of a publicly transparent Environmental and Social Impact Assessment. He added: “As we celebrate International Day of the Forests 2015, my Government pledges that Guyana will continue being a responsible nation both nationally and globally. We will however, continue to promote the sustainable use of these forests because that is unavoidable for the socio-economic development of Guyana, and the empowerment of our peoples.” He said that the future of forests in Guyana is therefore very bright. “Government will continue to work with our local forest industry, and other stakeholders; along with international partners, such as the Government of Norway to advance common goals regarding forests, climate change and development.” He stressed: “As an environmentally responsible

Government and people, we simply will not add to the estimated 32M hectares of forests that are lost every single year.” Meanwhile, Minister Persaud gave numerous examples to show that Guyana is very committed to ensuring that its forest resources are used wisely for development, but in a manner that recognises the need for future generations of Guyanese to enjoy access to this resource, and Guyana’s global responsibility. He stressed: “We have not shirked from these responsibilities even though the global community with few exceptions has reneged on its commitment to provide the necessary financial and other resources to support developing countries to maintain their forest resources while still pursuing economic development.” He said: “On this International Day of Forests 2015, Guyana re-commits itself to the principle of sustainable utilisation of these very important forest resources for socio-economic and other development, ensuring that this is done in keeping with

that the remaining forests of the world can have, and thus be able to provide a future for us.” Other speakers at the event included Dr. Indrajit Ramdass, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Guyana Forestry Commission; Amerindian Leader, Mr. Aubrey Samuels; member of the Foundation

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for Forest Management and Production Control of Suriname, Mr. Pearl Jules; Mr. Reuben Robertson of the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) and Mr. Florian Pastore, and Regional Officer of the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) for Latin America and the Caribbean.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Undertones of Granger’s ‘dirty list’ comments questioned

THE Revised List of Electors (RLE) is “dirty”, according to Brigadier (rtd) David Granger, the presidential candidate of the Alliance of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC). “That is a dirty list,” he said, speaking at a fund-raising event in South Ozone Park, Queens, New York, on Sunday. Granger added that, “The list has suddenly gone up by a hundred thousand to 567,000. Keep your eyes open. We do not believe in that. How in three years in a country in which the population is falling the voters list has gone up by a hundred thousand?” Numbers from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) indicated that the RLE includes the names of 570,786 eligible voters. The number of eligible voters in the November 2011 General and Regional

Elections was 492,193. DANGEROUS CONNOTATIONS GECOM’s Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally, expressed concern over the types of words used to describe the list. “They should not be using words like padded or bloated, because the connotation is that we are not purposely increasing the list. We are working on reducing the number of people on the list, but taking people off the list is not easy,” he said. Dr Surujbally acknowledged that the names of persons who have migrated from Guyana, as well as persons who have died, are still included on the list. “We would be first to say the list has people dead or people not in Guyana and this is something that Mr. Granger is aware of,” he said. However, the GECOM Chairman pointed out that there is a legal procedure to removing the names of dead persons on the list and stressed that GECOM cannot

unilaterally undertake this task. On the issue of persons who have left Guyana, Dr. Surujbally explained that if their names are on the list then it means these persons

David Granger registered, their residency was verified and the relevant procedures were followed to have them placed on the voters’ list. “We do not know how many people registered and, having their residency, subsequently left the country.

You cannot take them off the list. Suppose you take the name off and the individual comes home and the situation that arises is that they are not eligible to vote. What happens then?” he questioned. According to him, these explanations have been made to Mr. Granger, as well as other stakeholders in the electoral process. “They all know the reasons for the increased number of the list….this is not something unique to Guyana. This is a global phenomenon,” he said. The GECOM Chairman was emphatic in making clear that all the challenges considered, all stakeholders are well aware of the measures in place to ensure that no person votes twice or votes in the place of another person. “The important thing with these numbers is that there cannot be one person voting twice,” he posted. He declined to comment on Mr. Granger’s reason for raising this concern abroad, as opposed to voicing them locally, and more importantly communicating these concerns to GECOM. TROUBLING FOUNDATION LAID Meanwhile, politicos commenting on the matter have questioned Granger’s reasoning for questioning the validity of the RLE abroad, as well as the troubling undertones of his words of choice in describing the list. The observation is that this could be the laying of a ‘troubling foundation’ on

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which a loss at the upcoming May 11 polls for the APNU+AFC Alliance could be defined against. Guyana’s political history and the history of the People’s National Congress (PNC), which is the majority

Dr Steve Surujbally partner of APNU, as well as the fact that several APNU leaders are the same activists of the widely detailed ‘troubling’ PNC days were named as other factors of concern. Officials of the current Administration in the last month have addressed the need for Guyana to continue along the path of peaceful electoral processes, given the consequences of the violence that marred elections as recently as 1997. Recent comments on the matter have come from Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, in an interview televised on the National Communications Network (NCN). He recalled that in 1992, when the PPP managed after a long 28 years of struggle, to bring ‘free and fair’ elections to the country, that “it

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was the first time that we got this and those elections were certified to be ‘free and fair.’ However, Mr. Desmond Hoyte, at first never wanted to accept the results. He, however, eventually had to but many executives of his party dissented, and the Attorney General recalled the results. “There was mayhem in the streets of our country, violence… innocent people were killed,” he said. Nandlall also examined the 1997 elections, and he remembered that “again those elections were observed by foreign observers and they were certified and again the results were not accepted and you had chaos, beating… and as a result the PPP/C Administration was forced to give up two years of government, because we entered into the Herdmanston Accord.” Even so, he stated that “in 2001, those elections (yet) again were observed and were certified to be free and fair, and still when the results were out, violence again…that is the record of the PNC.” All considered, Nandlall pointed out that several electoral observers have been invited for the May 11 General and Regional Elections. The traditional observer missions include the Organization of American States (OAS), the Commonwealth, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR). Additionally, the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) has approached the Commission for accreditation as a local election observer. The Electoral Assistance Bureau (EAB) is also expected to revamp its operations and act as another local observer. The Governments of India and South Africa have also been invited.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Andrew ‘Six-Head’ Lewis endorses PPP/C -says onboard with ruling party to ‘knock out’ APNU+AFC Alliance

By Tajeram Mohabir COMPARING leader of the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Alliance David Granger with a sign post of danger, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Clement Rohee last evening urged Albouystown residents to vote solidly for the ruling party. Before Rohee took to the podium, former World Boxing Champion Andrew “Six-Head” Lewis, who was at the meeting, told the Guyana Chronicle that he endorses the PPP, and has joined the party to “knock out the coalition”. He said the PPP/C is a people-oriented party, disclosing that it has always been for him, and he will never turn his back on the ruling administration. The PPP/C, he said, was there for him when he won the World Championship, supporting him as a poor youth from Albouystown, hungry for success in a clean way, and he would encourage the underprivileged to vote for the Cup on May 11. Lewis said he is not too familiar with the leaders of the Alliance, and said from all indications, they appear to be opportunists and not suitable people to lead the country. Addressing the gathering, Rohee said Guyanese should not allow the APNU+AFC coalition to ‘pull wool’ over their eyes and roll back development, contending that the coalition is nothing more than confusion. The APNU+AFC meeting at Warlock, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown yesterday was called off, and when this newspaper visited the area, residents said they were unaware of any meeting. Over at Albouystown, another corner in the city, the PPP/C General Secretary said there have been calls by the Opposition

PPP/C’s Manzoor Nadir, centre, with ‘Six-Head Lewis’ and the Chronicle’s Tajeram Mohabir in Albouystown last evening for change, but pointed out that the “PPP is the change”. He said when the ruling party assumed power in 1992, it inherited a nation in hopelessness; the PPP/C erased the denigrated image by investing heavily in education, health and infrastructure, not only changing the tide, but positioning the country on the path to prosperity. The change the Opposition is talking about, he said, is puzzling, and can only be construed as “changing Guyana from good to bad”. “This must not happen,” he said, telling the gathering that they should not subject themselves to be guinea pigs for experiment, noting that the People’s National Congress, now the controller of the coalition, the A Partner-

ship for National Unity, was in government and they wrecked the country. “They must not do it again,” he urged, proclaiming that a vote for the PPP, which is a vote for the continuation of development, progress and prosperity. He said the leaders of the Alliance have failed to recognise the “tremendous” change in the country, but it should not be seen as a surprise as they are “desperados” and the situation with Alliance For Change Executive Moses Nagamootoo is obvious. Nagamootoo, he said, has too many zeros in his name, and like the APNU and AFC, any good thing that will take the country forward, and improve the well-being of the citizenry, they see it as a ‘zero-some’ approach. Rohee said they want the populace to forget

their sordid past, of what they did in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, by trying

to do everything to camouflage themselves, but he said their masks will be

removed. “No pedicure, bodicure or footicure” can change them, he said, saying that the people do not want to see a reversal in development, they want it to continue. Former Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC) Jillian Burton said there has been significant development under the PPP/C Government, telling the gathering that today soap, toothpaste, telephone and certain foods are no longer luxury items. She said more women have been empowered, and the standard of living of all Guyanese continues to rise. “The people know wolves in sheep’s clothing,” Burton said, and like PPP/C Member of Parliament, Reverend Kwame Gilbert, she urged the Albouystown residents and Guyanese in general to vote with their conscience, and vote for the PPP/C to remain in Government so that progress can continue.

Murder accused struck by chicken-pox, trial deferred MURDER accused Michael Powley, who is being tried at the Demerara Assizes, has been struck with chickenpox, a Medex from the Georgetown Prison disclosed to Judge Bovell-Drakes yesterday. Powley is indicted with the murder of Vishnauth Narine, called ‘Buddy’, of Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast, Demerara. As a consequence of the chickenpox report, Justice James Bovell-Drakes who at present is conducting a voirdire (a trial within a trial) to determine

the admissibility of a statement by the accused’s wife, decided to postpone the matter to Wednesday, in the hope that by then the disease would have been abated. Powley is accused of the murder of Narine, who was stabbed to death at Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara, on June 8, 2012. The accused is being defended by attorney-at-law, Mr. Basil Williams while Senior State counsel, Miss Natasha Backer is prosecuting.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Perverts and fraudsters aspiring to high office THEY attempt to project themselves as the guardians of society, upright and moral, but the underlying decay seeps out like effluent from a breached sewer system. They sit for hours and pontificate on issues, citing corruption by public officials and weaving their spider’s webs of lies and half-truths, hoping to catch the unwary voters. They are the presidential hopefuls of Guyana, and one by one they are being exposed as pedophiles, as psychopaths, as thieves and fraudsters, as intellectual authors of murder, as liars of no mean order, and latterly as voyeurs, if not pornographic merchants. And when they are caught in the act, they scream their innocence, despite overwhelming evidence to the

contrary, but they have money and they can buy their way out of trouble, which they do, but there is a Guyanese proverb that says, “Every day bucket a go a well and one day the bottom will drop out.” And the day has eventually caught up with several of those who are convinced that their clever rhetoric and semantics will get them out of trouble and keep their reputations intact. One pedophile, who purports to help vulnerable women, offers monetary and material help then helps himself to their girl children, some of them little more than babies. Prakash Persaud recently exposed two fraudsters – eminent members of society and aspirants to high office, who, being lawyers, subverted the law to rob

him of millions of dollars. The exploits of leaders of the Opposition collective cannot bear public scrutiny; but they are adept at pointing fingers at public officers, forgetting that while one finger is pointed at their opponent, four are pointed right back at them. How much will they attempt to fool the public before they are exposed? The Guyanese Diasporic communities, who have been influenced by the lies of Opposition leaders, always express amazement at the transformation of Guyana since they left this country. The young generation need to revisit their history to make informed choices advantageous to their own future security and well-being when they exercise their franchise come May 11th of this year.

Do we have to live in logies? DO we really have to live in logies or fetch water from standpipes to show that we are simple, frugal, principled and modest? I would readily give you an emphatic no! Because lifestyle is but a miniature view of someone’s integrity. Another searching factor is that lifestyles are not always what they appear to be; there are very many more important and searching facts to consider when such statements are made. If you say one’s opulent lifestyle is an indication of corrupt practices, then I might be tempted to engage in a discussion and my first question would be show me the evidence to back-up your claim. We can go about a serious discussion when facts can be tabled. Now this is the nonsensical argument the Opposition is bringing to the public, and a few charlatans in the PPP/C realm have been dragged into this foolishness. At the centre of discussions is the comparison of former President Bharrat Jagdeo and Dr. and Mrs. Jagan. A comparison of lifestyles that just isn’t there. There is no comparison of the two, because they are from different backgrounds with different experiences and people of a totally different era. One writer, Ms. Sadie Amin, even made the horrific comment that Dr. Jagan died rather than taking from the national treasury for his medical expenses. Outrageous! I rebuke that lady forever saying that of the Honourable Father of The Nation. Dr. Jagan might have been a little stubborn and maybe, just maybe, be guilty of a hint of eccentricity; those of us who are dear to old people know the way they behave at times. But to say he wanted to die rather than taking from the national treasury (which he is entitled to) is sad. I am absolutely sure Dr. Jagan would have liked to live a few more years to continue the good work. He lived for this country.

I used raw coconut oil as skin lotion and went to school bare-footed until such time when my parents could have afforded a flip-flop and later a pair of “Buckman Clarks.” There were other pupils at school who could have gone to school with a nice pair of shoes; should they be called “corrupt” because of the way they lived? They lived a life to their estate and I to mine; there should be no ill will on either part. I look back at those days with nostalgia. Now, should I demand that my nephew dress the same frugal way I did? The answer is so obvious. However, I would advise him of matters of frugality and modesty even in better times. Then I am prompted to ask the question, should all members of the PPP/C Party go to work with bicycles? Must they live in hovels or in logies as the former President suggested? Or further still, should Minister Manickchand dress in sari only? She might occasionally dress in such garb on Indian Arrival Day or at Hindu festivities but to tell a pretty upscale lady of the 21st century this is your mode of dress is quite jocular. Lest I forget, Mrs. Jagan did dress like this because it was appropriate to do so, for a period at least, to show that she identified with the Indian ladies of the day. But this was discontinued when the time was right. Former President Jagdeo merited every cent earned during and after his time in office; it goes with the office. After all the guy is single, was never married and has no kids, so why can’t he put his well-earned cash to good use? Then we must study the word modest and see if the use of the word matches the action on the ground. Modesty does not always turn out to be what it is; the word might well be used as a facade. Take for example Burnham; he was modest, Castellani House is a modest dwelling, yet we

know of the treasure he amassed in Swiss Bank accounts. Hitler and Idi Amin were vegetarians and could be considered deeply religious people; yet the atrocities they committed pale in comparison to their apparent modesty. The real problem with some Opposition forces is that they would like to get back into power and commit those same crimes they are accusing Dr. Jagdeo of. I can tell you many true stories of persons who squandered their ill-gotten wealth under the PNC rule because of their corrupt practices. A former minister of mobilisation readily comes to mind. Yet others, two regional ministers of Region 6 that I can remember never owned property because they were too busy running after women, a characteristic signature of the PNC. In fact what is revealing is that the two former ministers only acquired property during the PPP/C Administration. Talk about corruption, that was corruption; and yet for all they could not show anything tangible for it. This is really their gripe, try to raise suspicion in the minds of people with the legitimate gains of the present politicians and cry corruption. Is it corrupt practice to invest one’s legal emoluments? Jagdeo did that, so what’s the charge? I close by saying stop comparing the lifestyles of the revered statesman and his wife to those of our modern era; there is no comparison; and that is as it should be. Leave it there. Once we cannot prove that what they acquired was ill-gotten gains or misappropriation of funds while in political office, then we must refrain from making these outrageous statements. NEIL ADAMS

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

THIS LAND OF MANY WATERS IS OURS Miss Universe Guyana 2013; Miss India DEAREST Friends, families and fellow Citizens of Great and beautiful Guyana: I note the tensions, fears, annoyances, hates, bitterness and yes, even excitement as we draw closer to May 11, the time of National Elections in Guyana. Some are preaching gloom and doom. Others want gloom and doom; it will appear. Yet others fear and withhold their investments due to fear of gloom and doom, which can cause economic pain and even loss. My people, fellow Guyanese, this Land of many Waters is our country, we must never try to sabotage it. It is not a pageant where an individual alone could be hurt when some people try to bring her down, hurt and damage her; it is an entire nation, a whole country of people with children, and futures, with ambition. The day after elections, regardless of who wins, we all have to cook our food, go to the market, and get to work, even shower, put on our clothes, make out beds, and exist as always, just as we did all our lives. People should have control of their emotions, not get excited politically, even to

the point of violence or intolerance. Violence can be even the use of harsh words. We are a great people I heard my Father say often; we are a nation of many peoples who have co-existed for many, many years. Why it is at elections we tend to create annoyances amongst ourselves. This is a beautiful country with people from great civilisations brought under difficult but similar circumstances, so we must be like one big family, sharing each other’s pains, successes. With the exception of the Amerindians, we all came in ships, so we must care this sacred land Guyana, which we call home. We should never be intolerant to any group, as in this small, yet large and diverse nation, we have learned to live together, work with each other, serve and pray with each other. We cry and laugh together. Let us think of our similarities and not differences, and for a thing like elections, never be uncaring for another. We have breathed the air together, we ate food from the land, grown by various persons; we give blood without asking which party its owner voted for, or what

race was he or she. Similarly we all buy from each other and sell to each other. I ask the Political parties to be mature, not to use blaring and vulgar music or cursing, thinking that will attract voters. Sorry, this chases them away. The people of this country are not interested in foreign entertainers and big parties, where alcohol will flow copiously. The people of this country want excellent articulation; refined speeches; wisdom at its peak and love to overflow the land. The people want progress, peace, and goodwill. So give them that. They say they have too many parties and vulgarities already. This message is to all political entities and personalities involved in the election machinery, those seeking offices of power, and also to voters who tend to get emotional at election time. Katherina Roshana Ambassador of Peace Universal peace Federation (From College, New York).

How can we forget the total destruction at the hands of PNC Governments NOW that the political meetings have started to gather momentum, we can expect a lot of rhetoric and steam. I wish to caution all sides to be very responsible and to focus on issues of interest for the development of Guyana and our lives as a growing community. The PPP/C has played a very significant role in moving the country forward since it took office in 1992. Today development is very evident all around us and we should not stifle our conscience. A long time ago I read a quote which stated, “Those who are not prepared to remember the past are condemned to repeat it”. How can we forget the total destruction of Guyana under the PNC Government? Can we forget the lines at co-ops societies and gas stations,

the shortages of the basic commodities, the total breakdown of all services and government ministries? Can we forget the total collapse of our country’s treasury? It was the same Carl Grenidge who informed our nation that the country was bankrupt in the late 1980’s. Today he claimed he is the redeemer, he is a financial expert, he is a money manager, and he is a world class economist. Don’t be fooled! My father taught me that, “tiger never loses its stripes”. I don’t have any confidence in this bunch that is hungry for political power and revenge. Our beloved country has moved forward during the past 22 years. We have a competent team of hard working ministers. Hon. Donald Ramotar is a very caring and compassionate

man, a man who is a true servant of the people. Dr. Ashni Singh is an excellent economist who has maintained low inflation rates, a consistently stable exchange rate for the US dollar, low mortgage rates at the commercial banks and a treasury which has seven hundred million US dollars. Dr. Singh ensures that state workers/civil servants received their salaries on time each month. Do you know what the norm under the previous government was?

Private businesses had to foot the bills for public servants. Recall the contributions former President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo made to this county. He has moved Guyana leaps and bounds to economic prosperity never seen before. He created a perfect business environment. He is accused by a violent, resentful gang of all sorts of unsubstantial accusations. Why he can’t have a big house, a car and other amenities? Some people have

a special gift to save; my dad always encourages us to save, for he is a very successful businessman. If you don’t have the ability to save money then you are doomed to despair and greed and jealousy will enter your heart. I encourage you to look at the two governments which led this country since our independence and let your rational thinking and consciousness be your guide. MS. HANA MOHAMED

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

I reject totally Mr. Ming’s call to close the sugar industry

MR. Stanley Ming’s call to close the sugar industry is another wild, vile and wicked attack on the sugar industry and those who work in the industry. But this call is also an anti-Guyana call. The only persons who will support the call for closure of the sugar industry are those who have no idea on the importance of sugar in the fabric of the development story of our country. Mr. Ming was unequivocally out of his league when he attempted to talk about sugar. As Minister of Agriculture, I am deeply disturbed because the Opposition uses people like Mr. Ming to sound out their position on political matters. Today, I am demanding that APNU+AFC state their position on sugar. They must not speak with forked tongues – they must be clear to the Guyanese people and to the sugar workers. When APNU+AFC refused to provide vital support to GuySuCo, they showed disdain to the sugar workers and they betrayed Guyana. Today, it is another chance for them to be clear – will you close the sugar industry? Are you willing to say Tony Vieira previously, and now Stanley Ming do not represent the position of APNU+AFC? No “ands, ifs or buts”. We want a clear answer. The PPP/C will do whatever is necessary to ensure that sugar sustains its importance in Guyana and we will expand sugar for it to continue to play a crucial role in Guyana’s economy and social welfare development. We will invest whatever we need to ensure a strong sugar industry. The PPP/C has no “ands, if, and buts” when it comes to the sugar industry. The PPP/C continues to treat sugar as an indispensable part of the economy and social welfare of our people. We see sugar as “too big to fail”, a position taken by Cheddi Jagan, Bharat Jagdeo, Donald Ramotar and various Ministers of Agriculture of the PPP/C. Throughout my tenure as Minister of Agriculture, during one of the very difficult periods for the sugar industry, as it tries to position itself against global circumstances unfavourable for sugar, I have maintained a position consistent with the PPP/C’s position – we must take all initiatives and facilitate the sustainability and expansion of sugar in Guyana. APNU in March 2014 held a press conference hosted by Mr. Joe Harmon and Mr. Tony Vieira. At that Press Conference hosted at APNU’s headquarters, Mr. Vieira insisted that the only sensible thing to do is close the sugar industry. Today, almost exactly one year later, another activist of APNU, Mr. Stanley Ming, a former PNC MP, again reiterates the call to close the industry. Mr. Granger and APNU never disassociated themselves from the call to close sugar that was made at its Press Conference on March 8, 2014. Mr. Ramjattan on March 9th or so in 2014 also gave full support to the call made at the APNU press conference then. At the 2014 budget debate, I raised the issue and called on APNU and AFC to give a definitive position on the call to close the sugar industry. Neither party heeded my call and ignored my request for them to tell us during the budget debate if they wanted to close the industry. But APNU voted against a PPP/C budget provision to support the sugar industry. AFC abstained from that vote, playing politics, but the AFC never disassociated itself from Ramjattan’s support of the call made at the APNU press conference to close sugar. They buckled under pressure that they will have to explain to the sugar workers and in the end they abstained from voting against the budgetary provision for sugar.

At the luncheon meeting the Private March 2014, it exposed itself of wanting to Sector hosted for Granger to present AP- destroy an important industry in Guyana. UnNU+AFC vision for Guyana about two weeks fortunately, it was not the first time that APNU ago, Granger stated that “sugar was too big had called for the closure of the sugar industry. to fail”. This is what the PPP/C has stated In 2013, Mr. Anthony Vieira first described the since 1992. We have supported and facili- plan to replace sugar with tilapia. tated the sugar industry as the industry first Now the call is reiterated by Mr. Ming had to recover from the destruction caused and it is incumbent on APNU+AFC to declare by the PNC and throughout this period their position, notwithstanding Mr. Granger’s the PPP/C had to facilitate the industry’s statement recently that “sugar is too big to fail”. response to global changes, including the EuSugar workers realised that Granger ropean’s betrayal of the sugar protocol and was playing to the gallery when he declared the falling sugar prices that saw sometimes ‘sugar is too big to fail’. He knows that he prices falling by 50%. needs to fool the sugar workers. APNU and The PPP/C’s position has always been very its main partner, the PNC, have a history clear and unambiguous – sugar is too big to fail. of being against the sugar industry and the We are encouraged that sugar workers since Granger now says that they view the sugar he agrees with our posiindustry as a strongtion. But he was leader hold of the PPP/C and of the PNC and APNU they have always been when a call was made anti-sugar workers. to close the industry at They play politics with one of its weekly press the sugar industry, inconferences. During the stead of protecting the budget debate 2014, he interests of our counled the Opposition’s try and our people. response in Parliament. They speak from both He never once disassides of their mouths. sociated himself from The truth is that those statements. Now there is a long history that Ming has raised the of the PNC and now possibility again, what APNU pursuing poliis APNU’s position? cies and practices that When APNU came have been and are anwith its wild assault on ti-sugar workers. I am our country, on sugcertain that they will ar workers and on the close the industry if sugar industry by dethey have a chance. Mr. manding that we end Vieira and Mr. Ming sugar and grow tilapia are merely sound bites in the sugar cane fields, of the real PNC and none of the APNU MPs AFC. I reject this notion stated that that was not and I reject this plan. I their position and Ramvehemently reject the jattan stated he agreed position of APNU, not with the call. There is only as the Minister of documented evidence Agriculture, but as a Dr. Leslie Ramsammy to support what I am citizen of Guyana. stating. The present asAs the PPP/C Minister of Agriculture, let sault on the sugar industry is reminiscent me state that we will continue to build the sugar of the assault on the industry by the PNC industry to be a lead industry in our country Government in the late 1980s when they and we will work with the sugar workers to began the preparation to privatise the sugar ensure that their industry continues to provide industry. It’s an ugly truth that Mr. Harmon, employment and economic and social gains for Mr. Vieira, Mr. Greenidge and others in our people and our country. APNU and AFC want the nation to ignore Let me be unequivocally clear – Ming’s and forget, but Vieira and Ming are remindcall to close the sugar industry is DEAD ing Guyanese of the people who have always WRONG. It was dead wrong when APNU wanted to close sugar. called for the closure last March and it is In order to complete the privatisation of the dead wrong now. APNU’s plan to close the industry, the PNC Government in 1989 gave sugar industry is wicked and it is a plan of a Bookers-Tate an expensive management conparty that has no moral right to even ask the tract to manage the industry and prepare it for people for the right to be the Government of divestment under a World Bank/IMF Economic Guyana one day. Reconstruction Program (ERP). This preposterAt the press conference March 2014, APNU ous plan in the late 1980s by the PNC is now talked about an exchange – replace sugar with surpassed by the idiocy of their present plan to tilapia. Ming in 2015 has not stated that sugar replace sugar with tilapia or with something should be replaced with tilapia, but also wants else, as presented by Vieira and Ming. Guyana to replace sugar with other economic The truth is each time the PPP/C try to fiactivities. Such other economic activities are nancially support GuySuCo, they have tried already being pursued by the PPP/C, but not to to stop our efforts. Yet they have the audacity replace sugar. The position of the PPP/C is that to say the PPP/C Government has starved sugar must be sustained and expanded and other the industry. Indeed, the PPP/C Governactivities are additive. ment has provided more financial support When APNU, through its spokespersons, to the industry than the EU has provided Mr. Joe Harmon, a front bench MP for APNU, in budgetary support on the Supporting and Mr. Anthony Vieira, a former front bench Action for Sugar. Incidentally, APNU is on PNC MP, at its official APNU Media Con- record of calling on the EU to withhold the ference, called for the closure of GuySuCo in sugar funds.

The PNC inherited a sugar industry which in the 1960s, routinely produced more than 300,000 tonnes of sugar. But this production efficiency began to deteriorate and production fell to a low of 131,999 tonnes by 1991. The PNC cannot deny or hide the truth: they took the resources of the sugar industry and squandered it on failed ventures and mismanagement. The PNC’s sugar levy raped the industry and left it as a failed industry by 1991. The PPP/C Government ended all efforts to privatise the industry. We ended any thought of closing the Demerara Sugar Estates, one of the goals of the privatisation efforts. Under the PPP/C Government, production increased from the 131,000 tonnes in 1991 to surpass 300,000 tonnes by 2002. Under the PPP/C Government, we have restored production and have surpassed 250,000 tonnes 13 times in the last 20 years, and three times surpassed 300,000 tonnes. But we knew production above 300,000 tonnes could not be sustained unless critical reconfiguration of the sugar industry is undertaken. We have been doing such reconfiguration and this still requires more time. But the reconfiguration will prepare GuySuCo to again routinely produce more than 300,000 tonnes and to reach 400,000 tonnes by 2020. New circumstances, such as reduced sugar price, climate change, dwindling labour pools, more expensive equipment and supplies, etc., that the sugar industry faced in the 1990s and up to now have killed many sugar industries around the world. In CARICOM, St. Kitts, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago have all ended sugar. Jamaica, Cuba and other countries have down-sized sugar. In Guyana, we face the same enormous challenges. But instead of lamenting the changing circumstances and being overwhelmed, we have boldly embraced the challenges and seized opportunities. The experience has been painful and the set-backs frustrating. But we have also not been devoured by confronting the challenges. The truth is there is a silver lining and we will succeed in reaching our goal and sustaining production at over 400,000 tonnes per year. The success of sugar in the future has nothing to do with the gloom and doom of the enemies of the industry, but depend on our most valuable asset – those persons who toil day by day in the sugar industry, the employees of GuySuCo. In these difficult times, when challenges seem more than opportunities, some may feel the need to savagely attack our efforts. But the workers and managers have been sticking to the task at hand – reconfiguration of the industry for another century of leading the economic growth of Guyana. I am, therefore, offended by the call by Ming to close the sugar industry and I call on all Guyanese, particularly those in the sugar estates, to reject this call. But this is an opportune time for APNU+AFC to join us and give our country a chance to sustain a crucial industry. Let us declare together in solidarity that we will NEVER CLOSE THE SUGAR INDUSTRY OF GUYANA. I salute the workers of Guyana and I salute the young Guyanese who, with deficits in experience, but with a strong sense of commitment, have been managing the industry in these difficult times. Make no mistake though that our best days are ahead of us, and sugar, like it did before, will secure a beautiful and sweet future for Guyana and Guyanese. DR. LESLIE RAMSAMMY MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Our democratic ideals By Shaun Michael Samaroo

HERE’S a tragic irony of our Guyanese body politic: in the era of free and fair elections, we saw two terms of office for Government cut short, with a hostile Opposition triggering both terminations; while, incredibly, in the era of rigged elections dictatorship, lasting 28 years, Guyana never once saw a single term of office for Government cut short. In fact, one dictatorship government saw its term of office extended by two years, from 1990 to 1992, the five-year term running on for seven years. In the era of free and fair elections, Guyanese enjoyed leadership from four Presidents, over a 22 year period. In the era of rigged elections dictatorship, Guyanese saw two Presidents, lasting 28 years. In fact, the government of Desmond Hoyte, who retained the Presidency after the rigged elections of 1985, was extended by two years, albeit to facilitate the Jimmy Carter-brokered democracy deal that ended the dictatorship. We ignore this revealing irony, but we should see the lesson inherent in considering what such a thing means. How could we so callously terminate a freely and fairly elected Government, without consideration for the fact that it constitutionally won national and regional elections? We saw the Opposition hijack two terms of Government, tossing legitimate Presidents from office. In 1998, President Janet Jagan gave in to Opposition hostility to terminate her Presidency from its constitutional five-year term to a mere two-year span. Now, President Donald Ramotar has dissolved the 10th Parliament, just three years into his legal five year term of office, because the Opposition’s hostile confrontations caused an unworkable political atmosphere. One cannot help but sympathise with the ruling party for suffering a loss of five years of governance, with the two terminations. This is grossly unfair, and unheard of around the world. Yet, no one took the Opposition to task for this dictatorial act, for such nasty hostility against our freely and fairly elected Government. Our private newspapers and national media and public commentators never analysed this grave anomaly of our body politic. We would expect current Opposition Leader, Brigadier David Granger, to act with wisdom, a pure heart and authentic care for the Guyanese people, in recognising that the Opposition’s hostility against

this ruling party is unfair and lacks the fundamentals of our democratic ideals: we cannot operate a democracy if we keep harassing our freely and fairly elected governments, and terminating Governance for any trumped up reason. The Opposition attack against late President Janet Jagan must have been bitter for her. She left her family and life in the United States to join the people of British Guiana in the 1940’s, contributing and dedicating her all for us to become a free people, first from Colonialism, and then from the rigged dictatorship of the People’s National Congress (PNC). When she got elected as President in an overwhelming majority at the 1998 regional and national elections, after Dr Cheddi Jagan passed away, the Guyanese political Opposition turned on her with a vicious, monstrous rage, forcing her to terminate her Presidency and turning it over to Bharrat Jagdeo, who himself in turn suffered a barrage of attacks and criticisms from forces hostile to the ruling party. The ruling People’s Progressive Party today must draw and generate our sympathy and understanding. Party stalwarts like General Secretary Clement Rohee and President Donald Ramotar fought long and hard, for decades, to free our nation. And once the Party secured its goal of freeing the nation from a draconian dictatorship, its leaders saw a nasty, hostile, prolonged battle against its governments. Forgetting the absolute socio-economic and institutional collapse Guyana suffered in the period from Independence to 1992, when we descended to the worst corrupt country in the Western Hemisphere, and with gross poverty sinking us to Haiti’s level, the hostile Opposition proceeded to storm freely and fairly elected administrations with verbal abuse, allegations of corruption – ignoring the source of our culture of national corruption – and an utter tearing down of development projects. Is it fair what Janet Jagan suffered in her last days in this nation she adopted and loved and sweated her life for? Is it fair for President

Donald Ramotar to face such insane Opposition to each and every move he makes? Of course the attacks pour out mercilessly on every leader of a freely and fairly elected government this nation elects to office. It started in the 1950’s, when Colonial leaders removed our Government, and continued from Janet Jagan to now. Yet, the dictatorship administration governed without interruption for 28 years. We must recognise this historical pattern, and work hard to correct it. The attacks on Bharrat Jagdeo, whatever his faults and shortcomings, show how desperate Opposition forces work to belittle and, it seems, try its best to dismantle our freely and fairly elected governments. It’s one thing to act as a watchdog over affairs of public administration, and to oppose from a constructive, national-developmental standpoint. It’s quite another thing to tear down freely and fairly elected governments. Unwittingly, the Opposition may be ganging up to stifle democratic expression of governance in Guyana, and that’s a scary consideration. Guyanese cherish our democratic ideals. We fought long and hard to be where we’re at today. And for a few discontents and disgruntled folks to hold our nation at ransom, and for them to stifle our freely and fairly elected governments at every turn, is not only grotesque and ugly, but also a violation of our Government’s right to govern free from harassment and unfair tearing down. What’s the solution to this state of play? Our nation wants Opposition Leader Granger to see what’s been going on, and to reach across the divides to engage President Ramotar in a constructive cooperation pact, akin to what Dr Jagan did with Forbes Burnham. This irony of our body politic reveals a significant truth of how our Opposition forces work to tear down our democratic ideals, and how the PPP has suffered deep historical wounds, even as it lives those ideals through free and fair national and regional elections.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

DECONSTRUCTING THE OPPOSITION’S AGENDA By Teayken A. Dhigg

An imposition of convenient amnesia

Part 2

– Carl Greenidge’s mismanagement led to economic ruin UNDER this particular theme of convenient amnesia, I alluded to the stringent efforts being made by APNU/AFC to have Guyanese forget the atrocities the PNC unleashed on the nation when it kept itself in government through electoral fraud. But that’s just the overarching sum of what took place. The details of the harsh realities would take volumes to document, therefore what is attempted here is an effort to summarise various aspects. This can be broken down in some broad areas, including, the economy, social and physical infrastructure, health and education etc. While they are all considered as priority areas, the economy would take centre stage. This also can be examined from the two periods within the PNC regime: the Burnham era and the Hoyte era. A brief overview of the Burnham era would reflect abject poverty which engulfed all areas of the nation. This of course was a manifestation

of a collapsed economy precipitated from wanton mismanagement and the extravagance in which members of the regime indulged. Glaring examples would be the usual entourage in excess of one hundred that frequently flew overseas on the pretext of official business. This was done at the expense of the masses without consideration to reduce the numbers even for legitimate engagements. It therefore wasn’t surprising that the national carrier, Guyana Airways, could not have been financially viable. But that aside, the Burnham era would always be painfully remembered as a time when basic food items were banned. These included flour, split-peas, onion, garlic, potatoes, sardines and others. At that time, it was basically a crime to be in possession of a piece of bread! Could anyone imagine today, Guyanese not having access to bread, moreso, the reality of being placed before the courts! This is what David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo are vehe-

mently pushing for Guyanese to forget. The reasons are obvious; it is a disgraceful and shameless past and they do not want this generation to become aware of. This is the agenda! What appears even more disgraceful is for Nagamootoo to make such calls when he was on the receiving end of those atrocities. But with such shamelessness aside, one of the harsh realities then was the first challenge of mothers and fathers having to join long lines just to try and obtain a pint of oil and kerosene. They lined up with a faint hope of having the basic of basics to cook what may become available. That was the second challenge, and very often, it remained that, a challenge, for often many went without a meal. Try to imagine a father who spent all day in lines to get some form of food for his wife and children and having to return empty-handed. Even if you are not compassionate, such stories must melt your heart. Related stories are

too many to be captured within this small space, but what should never be allowed to be dumped from our history are the pains and suffering Guyanese were forced to endure in their quest to feed themselves and family during the PNC reign. Today, the opposite is the reality, with numerous supermarkets flooded with all types of food, both foreign and local. More on this in subsequent instalments. The Hoyte era began with the death of Burnham in 1985, and ended in 1992 at which time Guyana was declared bankrupt and became, embarrassingly, the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Carl Greenidge was the Finance Minister during Hoyte’s time. He presided over the further decline of the economy, plunging the nation even further into the abyss of poverty and deprivation. All basic services collapsed and despondency prevailed. Guyana became scorned and was the laughing stock of the Caribbean, while Guyanese were stigmatised.

Today, Carl Greenidge tries to impose himself as a bastion of economic prudence in an effort to convince of such capabilities. Therein lies the agenda of the Opposition. They are of the belief that because the younger generation would not have experienced firsthand the PNC’s atrocities, they should not be aware and concerned. In other words, if you weren’t affected, it doesn’t matter. But it does matter! By trying to make it appear as if they did nothing wrong then, even though in the present they denied the people benefits from transformational projects, means they cannot be trusted. Their efforts to impose convenient amnesia have been repelled by documented history, the internet and most importantly, the memories of the masses that were affected. The cliché of “a rose by any other name is still a rose”, seems apt, but unfortunately, even the roses had challenges to bloom, for the thorns were dominant.

David copying what Uncle Donald done seh!

POTSALT following de sayings of David and it getting interesting everyday. Remember de other day when at de fancy lunch that de business people organise, he holler that he would build de hydro if he win? Remember only just before that he holler that de hydro bad and he and Nagga and RumJ team up and stop it? People asking how come de hydro suddenly turn good fuh he! Uncle Donald went to pain fuh show David, Nagga and RumJ how

good de hydro is. He even bring de people who was to build it fuh explain. De building people show David and he team all de document and artist impression and so on about de hydro. Dem leff no stone unturn in de process. Uncle Donald even get Robeson fuh carry David team in de interior fuh see de preparations. David team was big and dem enjoy de ride. Dem couldn’t hide dem enjoyment from de cameras. Even though all a that mek a impression,

David an he same team turn around and kill de project causing de people who was to build it fuh run away. Now David running and seh he gon build it. But that is not de only thing he hollering. He and Nagga went to Queens in Uncle Obama country and play like dem ain’t see de people protesting against dem. People tell Potsalt that David and Nagga don’t see because dem ain’t gat vision, but that is another story. While in de cold Queens, David holler and seh

now how Guyana open fuh business. In others words he trying fuh seh that if he win, he gon welcome investors! People can’t believe is de same David talking; de same man who chase de hydro people! De same man who chase de Speciality Hospital people! This is de same man who Party, by dem action, mek investors ain’t want fuh come here! Potsalt did talk about de about turns he Nagga and RumJ meking. Now, whatever David sehin, was already said by Uncle

Donald! It was Uncle Donald who seh that Guyana open fuh business and that de country gon turn a develop one soon! Potsalt see that as copying! People know that when others repeat what others seh is because de repeaters can’t think fuh themselves which mean that dem ain’t gat vision. People know that David and he team ain’t gat vision even though dem gat eyes. That is why dem can’t see de plenty progress! Potsalt gone! Fuh now!

Rodney feared ‘death by the dictatorship’ 11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

By Shaun Michael Samaroo

QUIET, calm and collected, Donald Rodney stood his ground in the witness box and faced off against Counsel for the People’s National Congress (PNC), Basil Williams yesterday at the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry. The Commission resumes on a quiet note this week following a near-month-long break since its last session in February, 2015. Williams saw his cross examination draw the ire of Commission Chairman Sir Richard Cheltenham of Barbados. Sir Richard’s voice rose with stern rebuke, as he asked Williams how Counsel could proceed with a line of questioning after the Witness had denied the premise of the line of argument. Williams peppered Rodney with leading questions, seeking to have the witness commit to the premise that the leader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr. Walter Rodney, may have deliberately been working to secure an explosive device. Williams was referring to Guyana’s only case of a deadly bomb blast in the nation’s history, when a bomb, disguised as a communications device, exploded in the lap of Dr. Rodney, killing him as he sat in his car in the early evening of Friday, June 13, 1980, in Georgetown. The cold case sat unsolved for 34 years as the Commonwealth Caribbean’s worst political assassination, ranking with Maurice Bishop’s demise in Grenada. Dr. Rodney’s death shattered the political innocence of Georgetown, and shocked the global intelligentsia and academics from around the world who spent three and a half decades advocating for an investigation into that

terrible bomb blast. President Donald Ramotar showcased his good conscience and commitment to national justice for the Guyanese nation last year when he stepped out in a determined move to establish the Presidential Commission to probe the circumstances, atmosphere and condition in Guyana that caused that bomb to explode on that fateful day, forever tainting the conscience and soul of the Guyanese nation. The Commission has accumulated a vast volume of evidence, testimonies and records supporting allegations that the PNC State machinery devised an elaborate secretive political plot to assassinate Dr. Rodney, thus silencing him against his advancing popular national movement that sought to end the PNC dictatorship. D o n a l d R o d n e y, D r. Rodney’s brother, is today the only eyewitness to that infamous bomb blast that changed Guyana’s history forever. He became a star witness of the Commission, submitting a detailed written statement, and appearing several times to be questioned and cross examined. He wrapped up his vital testimony yesterday. Rampant suspicion abounds around the world that the PNC State assassinated Dr. Rodney, and the PNC took an official position of not cooperating with the Presidential Commission, although Williams acts as PNC Counsel, cross-examining witnesses. Williams cross-examines witnesses, as with Rodney yesterday, seeking to establish that the WPA was planning a violent overthrow of the PNC regime, and thus the movement sought to secure the explosive device. Witnesses have contradicted that premise, and yes-

h e Commission has accumulated a vast volume of evidence, testimonies and records supporting allegations that the PNC State machinery devised an elaborate secretive political plot to assassinate Dr. Rodney, thus silencing him against his advancing popular national movement that sought to end the PNC dictatorship.

Witness Donald Rodney in the box yesterday

onald Rodney, Dr. Rodney’s brother, is today the only eyewitness to that infamous bomb blast that changed Guyana’s history forever. He became a star witness of the Commission, submitting a detailed written statement, and appearing several times to be questioned and cross examined. He wrapped up his vital testimony yesterday. terday Commission Chairman had strong rebuke for Williams as he tried the tactic with Rodney. The PNC Counsel even told Rodney that when in “fleeing” the scene of the bomb blast, wounded and alone, it was a sign of “guilt”. Williams said Rodney behaved “like a guilty man”. Williams also said Rodney “fled the scene because he knew and was involved in an unlawful enterprise with the so-called walkie-talkie”. But Rodney quietly denied this and said he went to get help for Dr. Rodney, whom he knew was badly wounded. Rodney said he himself was bloodied and when he tried to ring the doorbell of the WPA ac-

tivist’s house to which he resorted, he found his finger slit to the bone and numb. His left hand was “in worse shape”. In shock and trauma, he could not get his mind around what had happened to talk to Police until late the next day, although he could not give a statement even that day, he told the Commission. Before the bomb blast, the Rodney brothers drove to Russell Street in Georgetown. Rodney left Dr. Rodney in the car on that awful night of June 13, 1980, and went into the house of the main suspect in the suspected assassination, Gregory Smith, an ex-Guyana Defense Force (GDF) soldier. He was scheduled to collect

a communications device from Smith. Smith worked, unknowing to the WPA or the Rodneys, according to testimonies to the Commission, as a double agent, spying for both the WPA and the PNC State’s Intelligence Command. Smith promised the Rodneys he would secure for them an electronic communications device, as this was banned in Guyana, and illegal to acquire. On that night, Rodney showed up at Smith’s house to collect the device. Following instructions, the brothers proceeded to test the device, but instead of it conveying communication, it exploded in the deadly blast that rocked Georgetown and forever changed the political climate of this nation. After the explosion, Rodney said he realised Dr. Rodney “needed assistance and help. I couldn’t see well. My hands had lost sensation and I realised that. When I got to the house at Croal Street, I realised my right thumb was split at the end and the bone was showing and the rest of my hand was singed. I was not in a position to render assistance. My left hand was worse, and for days I could not raise it”, Rodney said. Rodney said he felt reluctant to give the Police a statement about the explosion “because my faith in the Police Force was shaken since the day of Father Darke’s killing”. He was referring to the stabbing assassination of Catholic Priest and photographer for the Catholic Standard newspaper, Father Darke, who was stabbed to

death on Brickdam in 1979 when, according to Commission testimony, PNC-aligned political thugs of the cult, House of Israel, attacked a peaceful protest and stabbed him several times about his body. “I felt it would be self-defeating to give a statement to the Police, because I didn’t see the Police as necessarily acting fairly”, Rodney said. Cross-examined by his own Counsel, Keith Scotland of Trinidad and Tobago, Rodney said conditions in Guyana under the dictatorship were “far from normal”, and he feared “death by the dictatorship”. After the demise of his brother, with Guyana descending into a dark fear, Rodney migrated to Barbados, where he lives today, travelling to Georgetown to appear at the Commission and give his testimony. Quiet, dignified, with a noble posture and an erect upright walk, his face somber and intelligent, Rodney said he has always been ready to see justice served in Dr. Rodney’s demise, and his appearance at the Commission is a long-awaited desire fulfilled. The Commission meets at the High Court in Georgetown, and yesterday the courtroom’s audience was sparse. But leading members of the WPA, a political movement that survived enormous tragedy in its goal for a free and fair Guyana against the PNC dictatorship, took up front row seats and voiced support for Rodney as he faced off against Williams’ cross-examination.

NEVER MIND WHAT HE SAYS…

Granger is a carbon copy of Burnham CONTRARY to the APNU+AFC’s Presidential Candidates’ claim that he has no intention of reverting to systems of the late President Forbes Burnham, his actions as Opposition Leader, as well as campaign promises and touted policies and initiatives all reflect the dictatorial style of the late Burnham. Last weekend, Granger sought to assure supporters at a New York meeting that “I am not Burnham, I am David Granger, Burnham died 30 years ago in 1985”. Nevertheless, Granger has kept Burnham’s legacy alive through the APNU’s current ideology and philosophy, to the extent that he seeks to reintroduce Burnham’s burdensome political system of a heavy government inclusive of three Vice Presidents, a Prime Minister and a President. Granger has also touted the re-introduction of hydro power as a large scale project, which was tried and failed by the PNC causing tax payers to lose millions of dollars.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Judge overrules defence no-case submissions in 2013 Mash murder – is expected to sum-up today By George Barclay

Forbes Burnham

David Granger

Hence, Granger is not dissimilar to Burnham in that he has refused to apologise to the people of Guyana for the atrocities committed against them under the iron rule of the PNC founder leader Burnham. It was the implementation of Burnham policies that resulted in much disunity in Guyana and Granger has followed the pattern that has clearly resulted in disunity and infighting in his party. Granger’s dictatorial behaviour and leadership have resulted in the rigging of party elections and the lock-

ing out of former Member of Parliament, Vanessa Kissoon. It is because of the emulation of these and other strong personality traits of the founder leader that Guyanese have drawn a comparison between Granger and Burnham. The current leader’s adoration for Burnham was evident in his party’s announcement that they would have launched their 2015 elections campaign on Burnham’s birth anniversary. However, this was delayed because of the coalition talks.

TRIAL of the two accused, Devon Thomas and Randy Isaac, in the 2013 Mash Celebrations murder of Kumar Mohabir, is likely to end today at the Demerara Assizes. Defence no-case submissions tendered in a voir dire (a trial within a trial) were overruled by Justice Navindra Singh, who called on the two accused for a defence. Defence counsel Mr. Peter Hugh, aided by attorney-at-law, Ms. Latchmi Rahamat, addressed the jury yesterday afternoon; as did state counsel for the pros-

ecution, Ms. Miss Stacy Goodings, aided by her peer Miss Diana Kaulesar. If the presiding judge sums up the evidence today and hands over the case to the jury for their consideration and verdict, as is expected, the two accused are likely to know their fate today. While the two accused have pleaded innocence, the prosecution has led evidence through an eyewitness and others to support the contention that on the evening of February 23, 2013 (Mashramani Day), at Vlissengen Road in Georgetown, the two accused and others at-

Margery Kirkpatrick to be cremated today

Rice farmer claims Alesie Rice still withholding payments …Alesie management says otherwise A rice farmer claims that popular rice producers, Alesie Rice still have outstanding payments for multiple farmers who had transacted business with the company, despite word being that all rice farmers have been paid in full. According to the farmer, who pleaded for his identity to be confidential because of personal reasons, “Plenty farmers from Windsor Forest, Ruimzeight (and) La Jalousie who sold paddy to Alesie have not received payment for their produce.” He said he had sold the entity over 100 bags of pad-

dy, worth roughly $1.2M, and has, to date, received only $175,000. He also noted: “They still owe farmers close to $3M, compared to what them owe me.” The farmer added that he tried contacting one of the senior officials of Alesie Rice, Dr. Turhane Doerga, but staffers either misled him or Dr. Doerga would shy away from the topic. He stated that this state of affairs has been ongoing since last year, and he called the situation absurd. He declared that the year is going by and he is crying out to the relevant authorities to look into

the matter, so that he and the other farmers could receive payment. But in a brief telephone interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Dr. Doerga stated emphatically that “Alesie Rice does not owe anyone!” He said there is an extensive explanation to why that farmer would say that, but he failed to give that explanation; noting only that he was attending to some personal matters and would get back in contact with the Guyana Chronicle. Up till publication time, Dr. Doerga had not contacted this publication. (Navendra Seoraj)

tacked the deceased, inflicting multiple injuries to his person that caused him to die at the Georgetown Hospital. “After the alleged attack, Kumar Mohabir was taken to the hospital, where he later died,” prosecutrix Miss Goodings told the jury. She also detailed that, from the witnesses, members of the jury would be able to get a complete picture of what had happened and what had led to the death of Kumar Mohabir. Members of the jury have been asked to return a verdict in keeping with the evidence and the oath they had taken.

Mrs. Margery Kirkpatrick

P O P U L A R G u y a n e s e c a t e re r a n d Chinese historian Mrs. Margery Kirkpatrick, who died last Saturday, will be cremated today at the Memorial Gardens Crematorium, Le Repentir, following a Church Service at St. Saviour’s Church, Broad and Saffon Street, Charlestown. The service begins at 15:00 hrs. Mrs. Kirkpatrick died at the Caribbean Heart Institute, following a brief period illness. She was 76. Her family last evening confirmed that the Chinese Association will be honouring Mrs. Kirkpatrick for the service she has rendered them through the years, with a pair of ‘Black and White’ Lion dances. The dance will be performed by the lions,

as her body is taken from the hearse to the church door. General Manager of the popular Kirkpatrick’s Catering Service on Jamoon Drive, Meadowbrook Gardens, she had made a big impact in the catering business in Guyana and was known for her tasty cuisine. She also offered for rental, a prestigious banquet venue, ‘Kirkpatrick’s Garden Room’, for the hosting of wedding receptions and staff parties under a lush, green garden-like atmosphere. Born and bred in Guyana, but of Chinese descent, Mrs. Kirkpatrick nee’ Ting-A-Kee, was, for a number of years, Deputy President of the Chinese Association of Guyana, a task she performed with distinction until her retirement in 2014. Proud of her heritage, Mrs. Kirkpatrick served the Sino-Guyanese community with pride and in 2012, authored her second book, “The Way We Were – Memories of a Childhood in British Guiana”. In her publication, she chronicles the Chinese experience in then colonial British Guiana, recounting and capturing vividly the intrigues of her life as a third- generation Chinese girl growing up in the plural society of British Guiana in the 1940s. Marjorie was the wife of Mr. Dougal Kirkpatrick, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Guard Service, a premier security service in Guyana. She is also survived by three offspring: Melanie Mc Turk; Dougal I. Keith Kirkpatrick and Sean Maurice Kirkpatrick; daughter-in-law, Leana Kirkpatrick and two grandchildren: Dougal Michael and Stephanie Mc Turk.

Greenidge’s IDB challenge an abuse of judicial process GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

– Nandlall

A hearing of the legal challenge regarding a loan agreement inked between the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Government of Guyana has been scheduled for April 1 in the High Court. The undertaking has been dubbed by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall as an abuse of the judicial process by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Executive, Carl Greenidge. “It is my hope and expectation that the court will express its displeasure at its process being abused by Mr. Greenidge by the filing of such frivolity and will penalise him in costs,” he said. According to him, it is an equally “officious and vexatious” move. “I feel compelled to remark that it is these types of officious and vexatious litigants who contribute to the backlog of cases in our court system which result in genuine and just cases not being heard in a timely

manner. The judiciary must take a firm stand against such abuses of its process,” the Attorney General said. The IDB, in the latter part of February, approved two loan agreements for Guyana valued at US$32.16 (G$4.4B), one aimed at supporting Government’s security and the other aimed at supporting the country’s environmental initiatives. The challenge seeks to have proceeds of the sums of money under the loan agreement between the Government of Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank be paid into the Consolidated Fund and for those moneys not to be withdrawn without the authority of an Appropriation Act. It further seeks a Conservatory Order restraining the Minister of Finance from spending the proceeds of the said loan until the substantive matter is heard and determined.

UNWARRANTED Nandlall argued that the proceedings are unwarranted and explained that Greenidge’s calls, aside from the Conservatory Or-

‘Mr. Greenidge seems to be mentally locked in a time machine of that period or has simply become delusional. How else can one rationalise Mr. Greenidge’s belief and bizarre apprehension that an International Financial Institution will deposit the proceeds of a loan in a place otherwise than in the Consolidated Fund and will sit idly by, while a Government spends it for a purpose other than that for which the loan was granted.’ – Attorney General Anil Nandlall

Anil Nandlall

der, reflect what is already being done. He said, “It is axiomatic and indeed, common knowledge that all moneys that are the proceeds of loans to Guyana must be paid into and form one Consolidated Fund (unless an Act of Parliament otherwise directs) as mandated by Article 216 of the Constitution of Guyana. “It is equally common knowledge that these moneys can only be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund

Taxi driver shot on Laing Avenue By Leroy Smith EARLY yesterday morning, taxi driver, Curtis Thom, 48 years, of Laing Avenue, West Ruimveldt, was in his yard when he was confronted by two gunmen who discharged rounds at him and escaped. Thom was shot to his chest and left shoulder and was admitted to hospital. According to reports, the taxi driver was at the time feeding his dogs in the yard when the two assailants, who are said to be known to him, approached and opened fire at him before fleeing the scene. Up to late last evening the man’s condition was listed as critical. The Guyana Chronicle was informed that the man had long been a target of one of the two men who attacked him, who is believed to be also from Laing Avenue. Meanwhile, Ronda Spence Thom, the taxi driver’s wife, told this publication yesterday that one of the suspects had served time in jail for a robbery in the East Ruimveldt Market where he managed to escape while his accomplice was shot and later died. She said that her husband, to whom she has been married for just about a year, has a lot of police friends and one of the suspects believes that Thom had been

snitching on him. Recounting the ordeal, Mrs. Thom said that when her husband came home he opted to feed the dogs and she protested since it was very late and she urged him to get into bed. She said that he insisted on feeding the dogs so she stayed with him but after a while she went to bed. Shortly after she heard what sounded like gunshots and knew right away that it was her husband who was being attacked. The woman said that she rushed out and saw her husband approaching as he said that he was shot and urged her to call the police. Shortly after he collapsed in the bedroom and she raised an alarm and persons rushed to their aid and took the man to the hospital. The woman said that there was little that she could have done since their youngest child is three months old. The police were busy yesterday in their efforts to locate the suspects who were identified by Thom as he lay on his hospital bed. This publication was also informed that after the shooting, at approximately 08:30 hrs, the main suspect was still being seen in the area by residents. The police were informed but by the time they arrived he had vanished.

in accordance with provisions of the Constitution which sets out when, in what circumstance and for what purpose those moneys can be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund and spent.” The Attorney General stressed that the current Administration is “well acquainted” with the provisions of the Constitution, as well as the attendant financial procedures, regulating public spending. “In 22 years in Government, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Administration has never violated them,” he said. As such he charged that Greenidge’s actions are unmeritorious. “These proceedings are wholly unwarranted, absolutely without merit and will constitute a colossal waste of valuable judicial time and

energy,” he said. IGNORANCE OF PROCESSES The Attorney General added that Greenidge’s action also reflects an ignorance of the status quo, regarding public funds. “Perhaps, in the Government of which Mr. Greenidge was a part, as Finance Minister, loans from International Financial Institutions were deposited in a place other than the Consolidated Fund and syphoned off to fund dubious and unauthorised ventures,” he posited. Nandlall underscored the fact that during Greenidge’s tenure as Finance Minister, not a single Auditor General’s Report was laid in the National Assembly. “At that time, the Auditor General Office was a department in the Ministry of Finance without the regime of autonomy and functional indepen-

dence which it now enjoys. Indeed, the then Auditor General, after 1992, publicly stated that he was instructed by the then Minister of Finance not to do audits of certain Government departments,” he said. The Attorney General added that, “Mr. Greenidge seems to be mentally locked in a time machine of that period or has simply become delusional. How else can one rationalise Mr. Greenidge’s belief and bizarre apprehension that an International Financial Institution will deposit the proceeds of a loan in a place otherwise than in the Consolidated Fund and will sit idly by, while a Government spends it for a purpose other than that for which the loan was granted.” Greenidge formally filed the proceedings on March 20. Nandlall and the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, are named as the defendants in the matter.

THAG to magnify its contribution through Tourism Development Fund SEVERAL aspects of Guyana’s tourism industry are expected to be enhanced through the Tourism Development Fund (TDF) which was recently implemented by the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG). According to THAG, hotel, lodge and resort guests will be asked to voluntarily participate in the initiative and donate US$1/GUY$200 for each night of their stay in Guyana which will go entirely towards the TDF. A letter will be provided to guests in their room or at the front desk which will clearly state that this is a contribution, and enquire whether or not they would prefer to have it removed from their final bill. THAG in a statement disclosed that proceeds from the fund will be used in three areas that directly impact the industry - these include marketing Guyana, both regionally and internationally;

the development and preservation of Guyana’s tourism product; and strengthening Guyana’s presence in an even more competitive international tourism marketplace. The statement further gave in-depth information on the benefits of the said areas, noting firstly that marketing Guyana both regionally and internationally is required if Guyana wants to compete on the international stage. BOOKING ENGINE “While the fund will not come close to raising the amount of marketing dollars required to fund a comprehensive national marketing strategy, it will allow us to target specific marketing efforts that will benefit members… one such initiative is the Booking Engine that allows real time reservations and confirmations on Explore Guyana.Org,” according to the statement. Moreover, the develop-

ment and preservation of Guyana’s tourism product is critical to the future of the industry… as the fund will contribute to the preservation and maintenance of sites that are part of the national heritage and history. TRAINING PROGRAMMES The statement also referred to the fact that in order to strengthen Guyana’s presence in an ever competitive international tourism marketplace, the fund will also support training initiatives for young school dropouts, and re-training to achieve higher standards in the industry with the objective of reinforcing a culture in which tourism is the career of choice. And from the funds collected, 60% will be spent on marketing, 20% on product development and 20% on capacity building and training. (Navendra Seoraj)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Roraima Group geared for 7th Wedding Expo starting Friday

By Shivanie Sugrim

THE Roraima Group of Companies committee is in full preparation mode for its 7th annual Wedding Expo which will commence this Friday at the Roraima Duke Lodge, one of the company’s popular locations. Assistant General Manager of Roraima Group of Companies and Coordinator of this year’s Wedding Expo, Sonia Khan, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle yesterday said that so far 45

out of 50 booths were sold to companies who will be displaying their services within the wedding arena. She noted that the committee is working diligently to ensure that this year’s Wedding Expo will surpass previous presentations in terms of leaving treasured memories. Additionally, the committee has been approaching the public to showcase what to expect at this year’s Wedding Expo. “We’re taking part of the expo to the streets of George-

town in order to let the public be aware of what to expect come Friday,” said Khan. A beaming Khan then noted that this initiative stands as a “marketing strategy” and has become a success in spreading awareness for the event. EVENTS AND CONTESTS In order to give back to their fans, the committee launched a “Find em all” promotion last Saturday whereby persons were asked to collect all four flyers of this year’s

THAG President, Shaun McGrath; former Tourism Minister, Maniram Prashad; PSC Vice Chairman, Eddie Boyer; GTA Director, Indranauth Haralsingh and Captain Gerry Gouveia with some of the Wedding Expo models at this year’s launch (Photo by Delano Williams)

Wedding Expo and scribble their identities. Thereafter, they were then asked to staple the flyers together and drop them into the ‘Find em all’ box at the expo and the winner will be announced on the final night (Sunday).

The winners will then have a chance to win a honeymoon in Curacao, along with local prizes. Furthermore, the committee had launched a few contests in order to determine the winning couple, Win-

Tuesday, March 24, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Wednesday, March 25, 2015 - 08:30 hrs Thursday, March 26, 2015 - 09:00 hrs

ston Waddell and Natasha Goodridge, who will have their wedding sponsored by Roraima Group of Companies this Saturday in the midst of the Wedding Expo festivities. Their clothing and accessories are sponsored by Kings Jewelry World, Exclusive Styles and Shasha Designs, along with other loyal companies participating in this year’s Wedding Expo. Wedding Expo showcases an array of wedding products and services and gives small businesses an opportunity to market their goods. The idea of a local expo originated from similar expos that take place in Jamaica. However, those expos usually feature Christian weddings and white dresses but in Guyana, Captain ‘Gerry’ Gouveia, Director of Roraima Group of Companies, ensures that this expo takes into account all of Guyana’s religions and ethnicities. Wedding Expo will commence this Friday, 27th of March, and conclude on Sunday March 29th. An entrance fee of $500 applies. On Friday evening there will be an opening ceremony featuring distinguished guests and on Saturday the gates will open at 12 pm where persons can get a glimpse of the winning couple’s wedding along with exploring what the event has to offer. Lastly, Sunday evening will feature a small programme where there will be spontaneous giveaways to participants, compliments of Roraima Group of Companies.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Litter Regulations Enforcement Unit improving its capabilities By Clifford Stanley THE Litter Regulations Enforcement Unit (LREU) of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is achieving success in gradually building its capacity to detect breaches of the litter regulations and in taking appropriate actions to ensure a reduction in littering in Guyana. A source at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has disclosed that the enforcement programme has been “making good strides” in tackling littering and illegal dumping. Since its formation in May 2014, the Unit has issued various citations and fines to over 300 offending individuals and businesses. The offenders have all complied, and the campaign continues. A spokesman for the LREU disclosed yesterday that a recent early morning canvas of the downtown Georgetown commercial area last week revealed evidence indicating that Ms. Bibi Anderson, owner of Fazia’s Collection, either dumped or paid someone to dump an old refrigerator filled with plastic packaging opposite the High Court. The Agency has said it will take the necessary legal action against Ms. Anderson. Before passage of the Litter Regulations in November 2013, significant public awareness and sensitisation activities had been conducted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNR&E)

through its “Pick It Up Guyana” programme. The Litter Regulations Enforcement Unit was established within the Compliance and Enforcement Division of the EPA in May 2014. Twelve Litter Wardens were hired and tasked with patrolling, monitoring, and enforcing the provisions of the Litter Regulations. The EPA has said it recognises that targeting education and awareness, physical intervention, stakeholder responsibility, and adequate infrastructure through partnerships with other agencies in both the public and private sectors is required for success, and it is in process of developing its capabilities for such collaborations. The LREU reminded that, in order for Georgetown and other areas to be cleaned and remain so, members of the public must desist from littering and creating illegal dumpsites. Persons who carry out these offences should also be promptly reported via telephone numbers 600-0620, 225-5471-2, or send e-mails to greenguyana@gmail.com, or on the Unit’s Facebook page, Anti-Litter Guyana. The EPA disclosed that while the Unit continues to investigate complaints from other administrative regions, plans are on stream for a national rollout of the Litter Programme, with focus on the populated areas in Regions 2 (Pomeroon/Supenaam); 5 (Mahaica/Berbice); 6 (East Berbice /Corentyne); 7 (Cuyuni/Mazaruni), and

10 (Upper Demerara/ Upper Berbice). This move would see hiring of litter wardens to execute the regulations in these regions, in addition to the other regional government officers who would also be trained in enforcement. (END)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Rice cereal manufacturing facility to eventually employ 200 persons

By Rebecca Ganesh

GUYANA’S Head Of State, President Donald Ramotar, on Saturday last, formally launched the $100M Anna Regina Rice Cereal Manufacturing Facility, slated to add value to the rice industry in Guyana. This Government-invested project, costing some $100 million, is a facility which has the capacity to produce five metric tonnes of breakfast cereal daily. The cereal would be called Morning Glory, and funding for the project has been secured under the Rural Development Fund administered by the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry. In an exclusive interview with this publication, Dr. Suresh Narine, Director of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), said that construction of this factory is set to directly benefit some 105

persons in its initial phase; and when the factory would have reached its capacity, it would be able to provide employment to more than 200 persons. Dr. Narine noted that, most importantly, his first order of business would be to express heartfelt gratitude to the Essequibians, especially those from the Anna Regina area, for their support and collaboration in this project. He said: “What we produce must be of a high quality. And this facility that will be built will be the pride of the community.” Explaining the reason for situating the rice factory in Essequibo, Dr. Narine explained that Essequibians are among the most hospitable people in Guyana, and they take pride in their land. “For a company of this nature to flourish,” Dr. Narine opined, “the community needs to take pride in everything that they do; and

President Donald Ramotar with a box of Morning Glory

I have found this here (in Essequibo)”. Dr. Narine noted thus: “In another week or so, we will start advertising our vacancies; and within another four weeks, we will begin training of those persons that would have been selected.” After the training would have been completed, he said, persons would be presented with a food handler’s certificate, so that by the time the factory is complet-

ed, they would be trained and equipped to take up employment. Dr. Narine noted that in the factory’s first phase of production, about 2000 tonnes of rice would be utilised; “but the factory will be built to be able to expand on production when needed, and it will be able to utilise up to 30,000 tonnes of rice yearly,” he disclosed. “With 400 grammes of rice, we can process and

package, and be able to resell that for $600 to $700. That is added value,” he stressed. An upbeat award-winning and globally recognised Professor Narine told the gathering at the launching of the factory that, with all this new development, “I still have more news for you: today we are also the launching our nutritional bar, also made from rice!” This newspaper took the opportunity to speak with a few residents about this investment that the Government has embarked upon. Arnold Adams exclaimed: “Of course this is good for the community! And my main reason for saying this is because it is creating jobs for our young people, and we will be able to keep them in Essequibo.” He said another major spin-off of this factory would be the benefits accruing to rice farmers.

“I wrote CXC last year, and now I will apply to this company to see if I can get a job”, 17-year-old Suresh Lall disclosed. He explained that his family would be more appreciative of him staying in Essequibo, and the factory presents him a great opportunity to so do, since the company would be training persons before they commence work. Anna Regina senior citizen Bill (only name given) declared, “I am happy to see this Government investing; and dem been doing so for many years now.” Bill noted that Anna Regina was previously all swamp with no development; but, he said, over the years under this Government, “plenty people get big house, and dem children get fancy jobs. I glad that we getting this factory, so we can keep we children here, and not send dem to Georgetown.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Global Shapers ‘Save the Libraries’ project in progress

By Shivanie Sugrim

THE Georgetown Hub of the Global Shapers have been working on the design and equipping of a community library in Section B, Pattensen, Sophia over the past three months. The initiative, dubbed “Save the Libraries”, aims to increase access to reading materials and basic literacy services among the youth population of that community. Creation of the library would be coupled with provision of literacy and reading classes. Already, a number of volunteers, including members of the Pattensen community, have been trained to conduct the literacy programme. These volunteers

will continue to run the programme after the initial sessions have been concluded. Construction of the library commenced last weekend, with Global Shapers, other volunteers and community members coming together to make it happen. However, construction work and stocking of the library will continue over the next few weeks. This coming weekend, the Global Shapers will continue their outreach into the Pattensen community with leader Colin Marks sensitising residents about the new library and getting the community’s children registered to use the library and attend the literacy classes. The Georgetown Hub, having received a number

of books donated to the library, hereby extends sincere thanks to Youths for Guyana, RED Bandaid Foundation, and staff and students of the School of the Nations for their donations. Additional donations were received from individuals and other organisations, for which also the organisation tenders its deep gratitude. The Georgetown Hub is kindly asking the public to donate books which will be of a big help for the project. The Global Shapers Community is a worldwide network of more than 400 city-based Hubs developed and led by promising young leaders between the ages of 20 and 30, who want to build on their achievements and entrepreneurial drive to

Global Shapers members preparing school packages for children

make a positive contribution to their communities. Together, they embody the “community of the future”, bringing together empow-

Scotiabank funds computer lab for Eccles Nursery School SEVERAL hundred students of Eccles Nursery School of Republic Park, East Bank Demerara will receive training in the use of computers, thanks to a recent donation of a computer lab to the school by Scotiabank’s Bright Future Programme. Scotiabank’s Marketing Manager, Jennifer Cipriani, this week handed over the six workstations to excited students and teachers during a simple presentation at the school. In brief remarks, Ms. Cipriani noted that the donation was in keeping with the Bank’s commitment to giving children an opportunity to realise their potential through funding and volunteer efforts under its Bright Future corporate giving programme. She noted that school projects such as these make a huge impact on society, as hundreds of children get to benefit from a relatively small contribution. In 2014 Scotiabank in Guyana contributed over 1200 volunteer hours, while the Bank spent over $14M, on Bright Future projects throughout the country.

The Scotiabank donation being gratefully received

ered youth in a community that is diverse, decentralised, and digitally hyper connected. The Global Shapers

Community is an initiative of the World Economic Forum, and is independent, neutral, non-political and not-for-profit.

Guyana to be featured on Outdoor Channel

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

– GTA head highlights developmental plans, increase in arrivals By Navendra Seoraj AS Guyana is riding on the fast track to success in the tourism sector, efforts are still being made to enhance and diversify Guyana’s tourism products and other related aspects. Speaking at the launching of several initiatives by the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) on Thursday last, President of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Indranauth Haralsingh reiterated the increase of 7.1% in arrivals to Guyana for Jan-

uary and February compared to last year. According to Haralsingh, in order to maintain and attract the number of non-resident persons coming to Guyana measures must be set in place, noting that “we will soon implement programmes with a trip advisor…also along with the travel bureau in the United Kingdom (UK) there will be steps to position and help Guyana compete more out there in the marketplace.” Apart from that, Guyana has been involved in foreign activities which are intend-

ed to boost tourism around the world, he highlighted that one of the most recent events Guyana attended is a travel and adventure show in Washington DC, in the United States. OUTDOOR CHANNEL “Guyana is set to be featured on the Outdoor Channel in May and June of this year through the popular programme, The Obsession of Carter Andrews, as this will be the first time Guyana is featured on the Outdoor Channel,” said the GTA pres-

ident. Outdoor Channel is an American speciality channel focused on the outdoors, offering programming that includes hunting, fishing, Western lifestyle, off-road motorsports and adventure. He disclosed that apart from the Outdoor Channel; there will be other wildlife experts in Guyana from various well-known entities such as the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), the Discovery Channel, American Broadcasting Company (ABC) USA and from Korea – Man vs. Wild.

Head of GTA, Indranauth Haralsingh

“Currently we are also finalising plans for Canada’s top adventure travel magazine to produce several features in a programme and series called ‘The View From Here’,” he said. In closing he highlighted that this is an exciting time for tourism, entrepreneurs and stakeholders in Guyana, noting that “we must continue to work together to stimulate greater buying, for adopting new technologies and enhancing economic and tourism development at the destination level.”

GSPCA APPEALS TO ALL GUYANESE…

Spay and neuter pets to prevent unwanted pregnancies By Shivanie Sugrim THE Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) is urging all Guyanese to take advantage of its free spay-and-neuter programme in order to reduce the influx of unwanted animal pregnancies, with its consequent proliferation of strays. Considering the amount of stray animals hovering around the streets of Georgetown, President of the GSPCA, Mr Oliver Insanally, highlighted in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle yesterday that it is time persons cease straying unwanted animals, as it is a cruel and inhumane act. Insanally disclosed that not only do stray animals pose a danger on our roadways, but they also usually lead tragic lives in which they experience much ill-treatment and suffering. He noted that persons should take advantage of the GSPCA’s spay-and-neuter programme, which provides the procedure free of cost to persons who cannot afford to pay for it.

“Through this programme,” Mr Insanally has said, “many hundreds of animals have been successfully spayed and neutered; no doubt, making the GSPCA’s spay-and-neuter programme a significant intervention in reducing the number of strays in Georgetown and its environs.” THE PROGRAMME Spaying and neutering pets can prevent unwanted pregnancies. Once the owner recognises that there is no need for a pet pregnancy, that owner can refer to the GSPCA’s spay-and-neuter programme. Traditionally, cats can be spayed or neutered from six/ seven months of age. Spaying is the surgical removal of the female reproductive organs (ovaries, oviducts, and uterus). It is a recommended procedure for all female cats that would not be used in a breeding programme. Besides decreasing overpopulation of cats, removing a tabby cat’s reproductive organs eliminates the behaviour associated with the heat cycle, such as howling

and restlessness. Spaying also greatly reduces the incidence of breast cancer and womb diseases. Neutering, or castration, is the surgical removal of parts of the male reproductive organs. The benefits are that, apart from preventing impregnation of the tabby cat, it reduces excessive aggressiveness and the spraying of urine with its pungent odour. On the other hand, dogs are usually spayed at seven months of age. Females should be spayed (the removal of the ovaries and uterus), and males neutered (removal of the testicles). Spaying before maturity significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer, a common and frequently fatal disease in older female dogs. Spaying also eliminates the risk of an infected uterus, a very serious problem in older females that requires surgery and intensive medical care. Neutering males prevents testicular and prostate diseases, some hernias, and certain types of aggression. Pets which are not focused on finding a mate usually turn their affection towards

The building that houses the Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) is located at 65 Robb St. and Orange Walk, Georgetown

their owners. Neutered males are less aggressive than unneutered males, which can wander off in search of a female in heat; get into fights with other male dogs over a mate; become a nuisance to neighbours; get hit by a vehicle; or even get hurt by someone. Neutered male animals wander less, and are therefore less likely to end up lost or in fights. Females not spayed attract unwanted males to their owners’ homes when they are in

heat. PROCEDURE Both procedures require simple surgeries that would require the animals to be placed under anesthesia to put them to sleep during the operation. The entire operation takes an average of 35 minutes. The animal does not feel any pain during the operation, and recovers enough to move about slightly a few hours after the surgery.

In 2009, the GSPCA spayed and neutered 339 dogs and 119 cats; vaccinated more than 6,000 such animals, and provided shelter to 590 cats and dogs. The GSPCA is highly committed to nurturing animals that are in dire need of attention, with minimum cost to the owners, given that it is a non-profit organisation and is always open for donations to enable it to provide better care for its sheltered animals.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

GNRC chairman spearheads clearing drainage blockage on East Bank

CHAIRMAN of the Guyana National Road Safety Council, Shahab

Hack recently undertook an exercise to clear silt and weed which over

time had built up along sections of the East Bank Demerara road-

way, impeding proper drainage whenever it rains. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Hack said that he had noticed on the shoulder of the roadway in several parts, sand, weed and other debris were settling, especially at pavements which have openings to drain water from the roadway into nearby drains. According to him when the debris settle on the road shoulder it blocks those drainage channels causing the wa-

ter to lodge. He explained that he had seen for himself what was happening and also received calls from persons concerning the blockage. When the water lodges, vehicles would sometimes find themselves having to drive through the water and the sprays would wet pedestrians. Hack recalled two occasions when he was driving and observed that persons, including school children, had to turn back and go home after being wet by the water that was

sprayed on them. Recently Hack and several other persons decided to visit one of the locations. They then removed the silt and debris and cleared the drainage pipe. He said that one of the things they found was that several of the drainage channels were clogged not only with silt and sand but plastic bags and Styrofoam materials which were carelessly discarded by irresponsible persons. (Leroy Smith)

Burning bush threatens dwelling house

A pregnant Beverly Berry is led away from the fire

A simple yard cleaning exercise of burning dry leaves, grass and garbage got out of control and threatened to engulf a nearby wooden building on the Byderabo Road, Bartica, around 13:00 hrs yesterday. A pregnant Beverly Berry, who lives in the building with her reputed husband,

Vinode Chindu, also called ‘Sharkie’, claimed that she was cleaning the yard of unwanted debris by heaping and burning them when some heavy duty plastic pipes caught fire and the flames ran out of control. Bystanders claimed that the situation was aggravated by high winds at the time.

The Bartica Fire Service was summoned; they responded promptly and quickly contained the blaze. Ms. Berry, at home alone with her one-yearold son, was assisted by neighbours in removing the family belongings from the house. (EDWARD A PERSAUD)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Djokovic beats Federer to keep Indian Wells title

(REUTERS) - World number one Novak Djokovic fought off a determined challenge from Swiss great Roger Federer on Sunday to claim back-to-back titles at Indian Wells and celebrate his 50th tournament win on the ATP Tour. The Serb made hard work of his 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-2 victory in the BNP Paribas Open final, giving up the second set after serving three double-faults, but he recovered to clinch a fourth trophy at Indian Wells following victories in 2008, 2011 and 2014. Djokovic joins Federer as the only other man to win the tournament four times. Enjoying a fine season that started with a fifth Australian Open triumph, Djokovic thrashed semifinalist Andy Murray, the man he beat at Melbourne Park, and showed the same ruthless efficiency in the opening set against Federer. The Serb broke in the fifth game and with his powerful, deep returns caused constant problems

Novak Djokovic for his opponent. He dropped just four points on serve and after taking the opening set, it was hard to see how the 33-year-old Swiss could recover. But Federer, trailing 4-3, lifted his game to break Djokovic, bringing the Californian crowd to their feet. Djokovic served for the championship at 5-4 in the tiebreak but gave up two double-faults, allowing Federer to force a third set

that had looked an unlikely prospect. World number one Djokovic stole an early break and looked back in command at 2-0, but Federer rallied again to break back. Ultimately it was doublefaults from the Swiss that proved costly, allowing Djokovic to break again and then hold firm for victory. “I thought overall it was a great match from my side, very solid, great intensity, great commitment to hit

every ball,” said Djokovic. “Credit to Roger for fighting through. Showed again why he’s a competitor and champion, somebody that never gives up. When we got to the third set obviously it was anybody’s game.” Djokovic’s win moved him above coach Boris Becker in terms of career ATP Tour wins and said the milestone had given him an extra push. “It’s a great milestone. I don’t take anything for granted. I believe that I have to earn everything that I do. “I always try to look for additional motivation, because that’s something that is necessary, especially if you’re playing on the highest level.” Federer paid tribute to his opponent’s staying power. “Novak did well to obviously sustain the lead for most of the match,” he said. “I think he found an extra gear in the end. It was tough.”

Edward `Screw’ Richmond double-header on today THE Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond Under- 18 Secondary Schools football championship continues with a double- header at the Wisburg Secondary School ground today. Wisburg Secondary play

hosts to Linden Foundation Secondary at 14:45hrs, while Linden Technical Institute take on Mackenzie High in the second game at 16:15hrs. The tournament continues on Thursday with another

double-header as Harmony Secondary are up against Christianburg Secondary, the defending champions. Later at 16:15hrs, New Silvercity Secondary will face Marcia Craig Educational Institute.

EBDCA calls special meeting for tomorrow ALL cricket clubs affiliated to the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association (EBDCA) are asked to send a representative to an urgent meeting tomorrow,

starting at 18:00hrs at the Providence Community Centre pavilion, East Bank Demerara. This specially arranged meeting will discuss mainly

the fixtures for upcoming tournaments among other pressing issues affecting cricket in the district. Please make every effort to attend.

From back page ...

Golden Jaguars roar ...

Loud cheers erupted when the Jaguars team came out with Akel Clarke between the uprights, defenders Jamaal Smith, Colin Nelson, Joshua Brown and Chris Camacho, mid-fielders captain Chris Nurse, Brandon Beresford and Vurlon Mills with Eon Alleyne, Sheldon Holder and Daniel Wilson as the strikers. Trinidad and Tobago Pro-league side W-Connection’s midfield player Tremain Paul had the game’s first shot on goal for either side, when his free kick was hit hard and flat and trickled just inches from goal. But that’s as much the first half offered for the visitors since it was all about the Golden Jaguars for the rest of the contest. Mills, who enjoyed a fantastic game playing down the wing, orchestrated the game’s first goal when he skilfully, with much grace, dodged his way past St Lucian defenders before slipping it to Daniel Wilson who unselfishly patted it to Alleyne. The Fruta Conquerors playmaker made no mistake in getting it ball past St Lucia’s custodian Randy Poleon. The crowd erupted and waved their ‘Golden Arrowhead’ to show appreciation for not only the goal, but the fashion in which it was scored. Guyana captain could have doubled the score but his sweetly-timed volley, after taking the

Scoreboard

Racing Tips South Africa Racing Tips

1:10 hrs Nomadic Storm

Terror

American Racing Tips

Vaal

11:45 hrs Champagne Present

13:05 hrs Par Three

Philadelphia Park

13:35 hrs Sir Keating

Race 1 Bella Campari

Hexham

Race 2 Poochy

10:30 hrs Cyrus Darius

Race 3 Charli Sunshine

Wolverhampton

11:00 hrs Onenightinvienna

Race 4 Neo’s Grand Finale

English Racing Tips

10:20 hrs Happydoingnothing

11:35 hrs Apache Pilot

Race 5 Total Thief

Southwell

10:50 hrs Verismo

12:10 hrs Surprise Vendor

Race 6 Siete de Oros

10:10 hrs Sky Watch

11:25 hrs Emily Davison

12:45 hrs Brother Scott

10:40 hrs Moonlight Maggie

12:00 hrs Maxwell

13:15 hrs Ten Trees

12:35 hrs Gabrial The

13:45 hrs Buckled

08:35 hrs Ride Of Honour 09:15 hrs Rough Justice 09:55 hrs Brooks-Club 10:30 hrs Qawaasem 11:05 hrs Save The Day

12:20 hrs Mighty Minnie 12:55 hrs Sendiym 13:25 hrs Sir Will

ball on his chest before turning in one motion to hammer a right-footed shot on target, was tipped over the bar by the flying St Lucia goalkeeper in the 43rd minute. Poleon’s work between the uprights prevented Guyana from finishing the game with a massive margin of victory and he showed off his ability when he denied Mills who had hit a rocket-like shot from on the edge of the 18-yard box. The second half of the game saw the Jaguars press home, wanting a convincing win and it paid off when Holder scored a hard right-footed goal, after the ball had taken a slight deflection from a St Lucian player who was in the path of his shot. Shabazz brought in Dwain Jacobs for Mills; Emery Welshman replaced Holder, Slingerz FC’s Clive Nobrega for Beresford, Konata Manning for Alleyne and Fruta Conquerors Jermine Junor for Wilson. Nothing much changed in the game for the visitors as Guyana controlled the remainder of the game. Up next for Jamaal Shabazz and his troop is a clash against Grenada on March 29 at the same venue. Guyana last played Grenada on February 22, 2012, defeating them 2-1 with goals from Walter Moore and Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams.

Race 7 Cash Payout Race 8 Crossing Race 9 Spenny B.

WINDWARDS 1st innings 283 Guyana 1st innings 427 WINDWARDS 2nd innings (o/n 113 for six) D. Smith c Johnson b Beaton 20 T. Theophile b Permaul 47 K. Lesporis lbw b Permaul 15 J. Robinson lbw b Permaul 0 R. Currency c Johnson b Bishoo 12 L. Sebastien lbw b Permaul 0 Denis Smith c & b Deonarine 9 S. Shillingford c Permaul b Bishoo 3 M. Matthew not out 14 K. Peters c wkp. Bramble b Bishoo 0 D Johnson c & b Bishoo 2 Extras: (b-7, w-2, nb-3) 12 Total: (all out, 43.1 overs) 134 Fall of wickets: 1-28, 2-59, 3-59, 4-85, 5-86, 6-106, 7-116, 8-126, 9-128. Bowling: Beaton 5-1-26-1, Deonarine 6-0-21-1, Permaul 16-7-30-4, Barnwell 4-0-12-0, Bishoo 21.1-1-38-4. Points: Guyana Jaguars 18, Windward Islands Volcanoes 3.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Trophy Stall Age Group Badminton tourney concludes THE Trophy Stall Age Group singles badminton tournament concluded last Saturday at the Queen’s College courts with Tyeese Richards claiming the Boys Under-13 title and Narayan Ramdhani taking another title after overthrowing Jonathan Mangra for the Boys’ Under-19 trophy. Ramdhani claimed the day’s first win when he took out Mangra 2022, 21-13, 21-11 - his second win against Mangra, having beaten him when the season began last month. Coming in third behind Mangra was Hemraj Beharry, who won his

spot after overpowering Tyreese Jeffrey, in another match played on Saturday. Beharry bettered Jeffrey in a three-setter ending 21-19, 17-21, 1521. Meanwhile Richards got the better of Baoxiang Lui in the Boys’ Under-13 finals beating him 21-15 and taking the final title in the tournament, which began on March 14. The event featured play in the U-11, U-13, U-15 and U-19 categories, with some 60 players from schools all across Georgetown battling it out to be the best in their categories. Participating schools

were Marian Academy, Queen’s College, Bishops’ High, St Stanislaus College, Covent Garden Secondary, St Gabriel’s Primary, St Rose’s High, and School of the Nations. Following the end of the matches, title winners of the various categories were presented with their prizes at a simple presentation ceremony at the courts, by Ms Jackie Benn (Headmistress of Queen’s College), Mr Yuyin Liu of the Chinese Embassy, Mr Lakshram Das of Bank of Baroda & Ms Gillian Mangra of the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA).

Winners of the tournament pose with their trophies. Doing her usual take of the Girls’ U-15 and U-19 categories was Priyanna Ramdhani. Finishing second in both categories was Abosaide Cadogan. However, with Priyanna out of the way Cadogan had no problem taking the title in the Girls’ U-13 category, which she copped last Wednesday after

defeating Siya Persaud. Persaud also took a podium position in the Girls’ U-15 category where she had finished third. The U-15 Boys’ singles title went to Jeffrey who upstaged Akil Haynes in the final. Third-placer was Ransell Ramsaroop. Lui won the Boys’ U-11 title, Ethan Bianchini was run-

ner-up and Abeva Jones was third. The U-11 Girls’ singles was won by Lesha Singh, Reba Ramlall was second and Zarah Watson was third. The GBA extended gratitude to Ramesh Sunich, proprietor of Trophy Stall, for sponsoring the annual tournament.

Singh’s unbeaten ton guides Western Union continues to support GCC to mammoth win RHTYSC Cricket Development Programme GUYANA’s leading Youth and Sports organisation, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC), continues to invest heavily in the development of its young cricketers with support from Western Union. The company last Friday handed over $350,000.00 worth of cricket gear to the club that will be shared out to six young cricketers. Five of the cricketers are from the RHTYSC while the club as part of its cricket outreach programme is also assisting a player from the Blairmont Community Centre. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the Water Street based Western Union, which has branches countrywide, and the RHTYSC in 2009 launched the RHTYSC/Western Union Junior Ambassador Cricket Programme. Numerous players have benefited from $2M worth of gear and they include National Junior Cricketers – Shawn Pereira, Gudakesh Motie Kanhai, Loyden Lewis, Linden Austin and Akshay Homraj. This year the cricketers, all Under-19 players, are Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Plaffina Millington, Keith Simpson, Shatika Gajnabi and Shimar Flats. Gajnabi and Millington are national Under-19 players while Millington also plays for the national Senior team. Anderson, Sinclair and Simpson have played for Berbice at the Under

… Everest stop GDF

Marketing Manager Reenea Williams hands over sponsorship cheque to club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster 15 level with Anderson and Sinclair expected to make their national debut in this year’s WICB Under-15 tournament. Flats is a promising middle-order batsman from the Blairmont Club. Foster, in handing over the gear to the young cricketers, challenged them to be disciplined at all times, to listen to advice and most importantly to always strive for excellence on and off the cricket field. Noting that education is the key to success, Foster pleaded for them to stay in school to obtain an educational background and to always Say No to Drugs. He also warned them that the RHTYSC was investing heavily into their careers and as such expected loyalty and high standards. Foster expressed gratitude to the Management of Western Union for their continued support of the

RHTYSC and praised former Marketing Director Ms. Natheeah Mendonca for her commitment to youth development. Marketing officer Mrs. Reenea Willians, in handing over the cheque, stated that Western Union was pleased with the success of the Junior Ambassador programme and the development of the players especially those who have gone on to play for Guyana and in the case of Motie, the West Indies. She disclosed that the club and Western Union would sit down next month to discuss areas of cooperation as the company was impressed with the work of the RHTYSC. She also congratulated the club on achieving its Silver Jubilee. Foster also handed over a Silver Anniversary Souvenir T-Shirt to Mrs. Williams.

LED BY an unbeaten 156 from Gavin Singh, hosts Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) came away with a commanding 168-run win over Third Class, when action in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/ New Building Society 40 overs-a-side second division competition was held last Saturday. Across at the Camp Road-based Everest Cricket Club ground, the home team like GCC, carved a 150-run victory over Guyana Defence Force (GDF), despite Kenrick McDonald hitting a resilient 91 for the Army Boys. At GCC, the 27-year-old Singh chalked up his sixth second division ton and what was his highest score at this level, as they scored 270 for 6 in their 40 overs, with Singh hitting the boundary ropes 18 times and clearing it once in his unbeaten innings. He added 83 for the second wicket with Manny Forde (23), after left-arm spinner Trevor Hussein removed Martin Pestano-Belle for 27, after he had added 67 for the first wicket with Forde, whose demise later brought Deonarine Seegobin to the wicket, following which he added 78 for the fourth wicket with Singh, after the quick demise of Joshua Wade (7). In their turn at the wicket, Third Class were bowled out for 98 off 36.4 overs, with only Shivnandan Roopnarine (31)

Gavin Singh and Andre O’Neil (23) offering resistance to the bowling of Tariq Dharamlall (4-6), Devon Lord (3-17) and Singh (2-13), who all conspired to set up the GCC win. At Everest, the 22-year-old McDonald scored an entertaining 91 that was decorated with seven fours as he shared in a 93-run seventh-wicket stand with Jason Garraway (40), to lift GDF from 70-6 to their eventual total of 174 all out in 30.2 overs, as Reyad Sattaur (4 for 22) and Javed Rasheed 3 for 16 did the damage with the ball. This was in reply to Everest’s 224 all out in 40 overs, led by an attractive 67 (9x4, 2x6) from Bhola, an unbeaten 59 (7x4) from Khemraj Ramdeen as Trevor Garraway (3 for 52), Sam (2 for 34) and Randy Lindore (2 for 26 bowled well for GDF.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Bitter rivalry adds edge to World Cup semi-final By Julian Linden SYDNEY, Australia (Reuters) - The love-hate relationship between Australia and India has added extra spice to Thursday’s World Cup semi-final at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). There is no shortage of mutual respect between the two teams but as the two most powerful nations in contemporary cricket, they are also the fiercest of rivals. With players on neither side willing to give any ground, their battle for global supremacy has led to some tense battles on and off the pitch, which have occasionally overheated. The most infamous clash was during the second match of their 2007-8 series, played at the SCG. India lost the match in the final moments of the last day but that was only the start of the drama. The Indians were furious that a number of key umpiring decisions had gone

against them. Then their spinner Harbhajan Singh was charged with racially abusing Australia’s Andrew Symonds in what became known as the ‘Monkeygate’ scandal. Harbhajan was banned for three matches, further upsetting the Indians, who responded by saying they were abandoning the tour and heading home. The International Cricket Council intervened, the charges were later downgraded and the team agreed to stay. But the rivalry has remained to this day. In the lead-up to the World Cup, the teams played each other in a Test and one-day series where tensions again threatened to boil over. The Australian batsman David Warner and the Indian pair of Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan were all fined by the ICC after a row during the Test series while Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc was given a warning.

James Faulkner When the teams switched to One Day Internationals after the Test series, Warner was slapped with another fine after telling Indian opener Rohit Sharma to “speak English”. With the match sold out and hundreds of millions of people expected to watch on television as the teams fight

Fiery Cornwall hundred inspires Leewards to victory COUVA, Trinidad (CMC) – Rahkeem Cornwall blasted a stroke-filled maiden first class century to fire Leeward Islands Hurricanes to a sensational five-wicket victory over Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, and end their otherwise disappointing WICB PCL campaign on a high here yesterday. The burly 22-year-old finished on 101 not out off a mere 84 balls as the Leewards, resuming the day precariously perched on 34 for two, chased down their target of 241 with time and effort to spare at the National Cricket Centre. Cornwall was helped by seasoned right-hander Steve Liburd who stroked an unbeaten 51, as the pair combined to add a superb 145 in an unbroken sixthwicket stand. All told, Cornwall clobbered 11 fours and six sixes while Liburd, who hit 93 in the first innings, faced 144 deliveries in 2-1/2 hours and counted four fours. The century was his second of the year, following his 113 not out against West Indies Under-19s at the same

Rahkeem Cornwall strikcs an unbeaten 101.

ground, during the Regional Super50 back in January. Resuming the final day of the tenth round encounter with 207 runs still required for victory, Hodge and Thomas extended their thirdwicket stand to 60 before being separated. Hodge was the first to go, adding just six to his overnight 23 before departing to a catch at the wicket off pacer Marlon Richards who was the most successful bowler with two for 34. With five runs added, Jahmar Hamilton departed without scoring, as the

Leewards tumbled to 66 for four, inside the first hour of the morning. Thomas and Liburd then steadied the innings in a 34run stand for the fifth wicket. The right-handed Thomas, who got two half-centuries in the last game, powered his way to another half-century. Overall, he struck eight fours off 98 balls in 136 minutes at the crease. He perished before lunch, however, leaving Liburd and Cornwall to take the Leewards to lunch at 125 for five, with victory still 116 runs away. They both flourished

for a place in the World Cup final, all the ingredients are there for another explosive battle. The players on both teams have already been warned about their behaviour but have shown no signs of backing down with so much at stake. “They’ve spent a lot of time in the country so they’ve adapted well to the conditions, so it’s no surprise they’re up against us in the semi-final,” Australian allrounder James Faulkner told a news conference before team training yesterday. “I think they’re a very strong team and we are as well. “I think there always is (rivalry) in the game, if there isn’t you’ve got problems. “It’s the nature of the game, it’s a semi-final. It’s cut-throat; there’s going to be words said. It’s going to be a really tough contest and both teams won’t be backing down.”

Scoreboard T&T RED FORCE 1st innings 291 Leewards 1st innings 277 T&T Red Force 2nd innings 226 Leewards 2nd innings (target: 241 runs) (o/n 34 for two) L. Richardson lbw b Gabriel 0 S. Peters c wkp. Katwaroo b Richards 0 M. Hodge c wkp. Katwaroo b Richards 29 D. Thomas c Imran Khan b Hosein 57 J. Hamilton c Emrit b Imran Khan 0 S. Liburd not out 51 R. Cornwall not out 101 Extras: (b-2, lb-3, nb-2) 7 Total: (5 wkts, 67.3 overs) 245 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-1, 3-61, 4-66, 5-100. Bowling: Gabriel 8-2-29-1, Richards 12-3-37-2, Emrit 4-016-0, Imran Khan 23-5-82-1, Hosein 13-2-35-1, Mohammed 6-1-24-0, Deyal 1.3-0-17-0. Result: Leeward Islands Hurricanes won by five wickets. Points: Leeward Islands Hurricanes 17, T&T Red Force 5.

after the interval with Cornwall taking the attack to the Red Force bowlers and Liburd offering firm support. The victory for the Leewards was their second straight following on from their win over Jamaica in the last round. They suffered defeats in their first seven fixtures.

Halep battles back to claim Indian Wells crown

INDIAN WELLS, California,(Reuters) - Romania’s Simona Halep won the BNP Paribas title with a 2-6 7-5 6-4 comeback victory over Serbia’s Jelena Jankovic in an exciting final at Indian Wells Sunday. Jankovic served for the title at 5-4 up in the second but Halep, the world number three, won the next three games and battled back for the biggest title win of her career. The tense, enthralling encounter had both players making plenty of mistakes but the 23-year-old Halep displayed impressive determination to secure her third title of the year following triumphs in Shenzhen and Dubai. The 30-year-old Jankovic, who had a testy exchange with her coach, showing clear signs of nerves when she had the title within her grasp before tiring badly in the third set. Halep received a bye into the final after world number one Serena Wil-

liams withdrew from their semi-final with injury but she struggled in the opening set. Jankovic, who won at Indian Wells in 2010, dominated the first set, playing with freedom and fire but as soon as she came within sight of victory in the second set, she tensed up. She was 3-1 up but lost her break as Halep began to show her character when it counted. Nonetheless, the Serb broke again to go 5-4 up but the Romanian fought for every point before finally edging ahead in the 63-minute second set. Both players struggled to keep serve in the third, Jankovic breaking to go 2-1 up but Halep brought it level at 3-3 and then broke Jankovic to lead 5-3. This time Jankovic dug deep to break back but there was something inevitable about the way she then allowed Halep to break again and secure her 11th career WTA title.

Pride bat out day to force tame draw

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Barbados Pride opted to bat out the final day, forcing a tame draw against Jamaica Franchise in their tenth round WICB PCL contest at Sabina Park yesterday. Resuming the day on 168 for two with already a lead of 250 runs, the visitors opted not to open up the game with a declaration, and finished on 303 for nine in their second innings. Both teams agreed to call off play an hour before the scheduled close. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite converted his overnight unbeaten 78 into a top score of 90 while Roston Chase and Kevin Stoute both chipped with scores of 43. Shamarh Brooks, unbeaten overnight on 21, made 38. Fast bowler Jason Dawes claimed three for 44 while off-spinner and captain Tamar Lambert picked up three for 61. Brathwaite and Brooks stretched their third-wicket stand to 65 before parting ways, when Brooks was bowled attempting a sweep at Lambert.

The right-handed Brathwaite was sizing up his 13th first-class century when he edged a pull through to wicketkeeper Chadwick Walton off Lambert. Overall, he faced 324 balls in nearly 7-1/2 hours at the crease and hit seven fours. On 203 for four at lunch, the only highlight of the afternoon was a 70run stand between Chase and Stoute, as the game drifted. Scoreboard BARBADOS PRIDE 1st innings 310 Jamaica 1st innings 228 BARBADOS 2nd innings (o/n 168 for two) K. Brathwaite c wkp. Walton b Lambert 90 O. Phillips c Bernard b Dawes 59 S. Hope c wkp. Walton b Dawes 4 S. Brooks b Lambert 38 R. Chase c wkp. Walton b Dawes 43 S. Dowrich lbw b Lambert 3 K. Stoute c J. Campbell b Jacobs 43 C. Brathwaite lbw b Jacobs 6 A. Nurse not out 2 J. Warrican lbw b Jacobs 0 M. Cummins not out 0 Extras: (b-4, lb-1, w-4, nb-6) 15 Total: (9 wkts, 156 overs) 303 Fall of wickets: 1-131, 2-135, 3-200, 4-203, 5-209, 6-279, 7-292, 8-301, 9-301. Bowling: Mindley 21-8-41-0, Dawes 23-11-44-3, Bernard 156-23-0, Lewis 26-5-54-0, Jacobs 27-4-57-0, Lambert 40-11-613, Blackwood 2-0-7-0, John Campbell 2-0-11-0.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Somerset sign Windies Chris Gayle for T20 Blast SOMERSET have signed West Indies opener Chris Gayle to play up to six matches during this summer’s T20 Blast. He will arrive on either May 22 or 29, depending on how far his Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise progress in the Indian Premier League. The big-hitting Jamaican, 35, has made 13 centuries in Twenty20 cricket. “Signing a world-class player of the quality of Chris Gayle is tremendously exciting for the club,” said director of cricket Matthew Maynard. “He will be a tremendous addition to our already extremely strong squad. He is an inspirational character and we are delighted to be bringing him to Somerset.” The left-hander is one of the most charismatic and entertaining players in world cricket, having played 103 Tests, 269 one-day internationals and 45 T20 matches for the West Indies since his debut in 1999. He also has previous

experience of county cricket with Worcestershire. Gayle could make his Somerset debut in their home game against Sussex on May 22, or against Essex at Chelmsford a week later He will then be available for home matches against Kent (May 31), Hampshire (June 5) and Surrey (June 12) before finishing his brief stint with the county in their away game against Glamorgan on June 13. Gayle is the third signing by Somerset for the T20 Blast, with Pakistan all-rounder Sohail Tanvir joining the club for the first half of the competition before being replaced by New Zealand’s Corey Anderson. He hit the first hundred in a T20 international against

Former Grand Slam doubles champion Bob Hewitt looks on ahead of court proceedings at the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg, February 10, 2015. (Credit: Reuters/Siphiwe Sibeko)

Ex-tennis champion Bob Hewitt convicted of rape in South Africa

Chris Gayle South Africa in 2007 and his total of 6 975 runs in the game’s shortest format is a record. Gayle is the only player to have a Test triple century, a 50-over double-century and T20 hundred to his credit - and last month became the first man to score a doublehundred in a World Cup game when he made 215 off 147 balls against Zimbabwe

in Canberra. “Many of the club’s members and supporters will know that I came close to playing for the county in 2012 and I have always felt that, if I was able to, I wanted to honour that commitment to Somerset,” Gayle said. “I’m looking forward to coming to Taunton and scoring some runs.” (BBC Sport)

Blatter faces harshest critics at UEFA Congress

By Mike Collett

VIENNA, Austria (Reuters) - FIFA president Sepp Blatter will come face to face with some of his harshest critics today, most of whom will be voting to remove him from office when the Swiss stands for re-election in May. The 79-year-old is to address the 54 member-nations of UEFA at their annual Congress knowing most of the delegates are backing the other three candidates: Jordanian Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, Dutchman Michael van Praag and Luis Figo of Portugal. Blatter will make a speech at the start of Congress in his role as FIFA chief but has rejected an offer to address delegates as a presidential hopeful. He said he had no need to campaign as his 40-year record at football’s governing body spoke for itself. Blatter may be right because, despite his organisation facing one crisis or another, he is the overwhelming favourite to win a fifth term of office in the election at the FIFA Congress in Zurich on May 29. But he will be under no illusions when he faces his fellow Europeans today that not all of them believe he is fit to carry on as president.

“It will be very bad indeed if he continues,” van Praag told reporters yesterday. “I believe that if the present president of FIFA goes on we will keep on having these things again and again and FIFA president Sepp Blatter gestures as he addresses a news again. conference after a meeting of the FIFA executive committee in “I’m of Zurich, Switzerland, March 20, 2015. the opinion one for three UEFA representatives Mr Blatter is responsible for this and he will never be on FIFA’s executive committee that accepted by anyone in the world as the will almost certainly see two critics of person to turn FIFA around,” added the Blatter voted on to the most powerful 67-year-old chairman of the Dutch FA. group in world football. German FA chairman Wolfgang Although attention is to focus on Niersbach will be elected unopposed Blatter at the start of Congress, UEFA will also be re-electing Michel Platini while England’s David Gill is expected to win a seat reserved for as president for a third term. The former France international the British vice-presidency in a twowas once an ally of the FIFA leader way battle against Trefor Lloyd but the pair have drifted apart and Hughes of Wales. Incumbent Angel Maria Villar Platini is now endorsing Blatter’s Llona of Spain will also be re-elected opponents. Among other elections today is unopposed.

JOHANNESBURG South Africa (Reuters) Former Grand Slam doubles tennis champion Bob Hewitt was found guilty by a South African court yesterday of two charges of rape and one charge of sexual assault of minors, the radio station Eyewitness News said. The Australian-born Hewitt, 75, had been charged with assaulting three under-age girls during his time coaching children in South Africa in the 1980s and 1990s. Hewitt won nine Grand Slam doubles and six Grand Slam mixed doubles titles in the 1960s and 1970s. He also reached the semi-finals of the men’s singles at the Australian Open three times, and won the Davis Cup with South Africa in 1974 after settling there. The prosecution and defence both presented closing arguments at the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg yesterday. Hewitt had pleaded not guilty to all charges. His doctor said last year that Hewitt remained ill after suffering a stroke in 2010 and a heart attack in 2011.

NOTABLE DATES JUNIOR welterweight (super lightweight) Donald Allison improved to three victories from four fights when he defeated American Louis Palombo on March 24, 1989 at the Gleason’s Arena in Brooklyn, New York. Allison won the six-rounder on points and it marked the first occasion that he had gone beyond four rounds. Born in Guyana, Allison competed mostly in the USA. He was crowned New York State junior welterweight champion in July 1990 following a unanimous win over Jose Avila. In February 1991 Allison made an unsuccessful attempt to win the International Boxing Council (IBC) title. The Guyanese lost by a unanimous decision to American Tony Martin. The fight was held at the Mark Etess Arena in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Allison was born on December 1, 1963 and had his first professional fight in June 1988. His career had a life of six years during which time he recorded 14 victories, six losses and one draw. Two of his 21 fights were staged outside the USA. In July 1992 he defeated Barrington Cambridge in Guyana, while in October of the same year Allison lost to Fabian Chancalay in Argentina. After retiring from fighting, he returned to Guyana, turned to the Rastafarian faith and opened a gym in Agricola. The gym was a magnet for youths in the area including Dexter `Chucky’ Wray, a talented amateur. Allison was a few months short of turning 42 when he was gunned down in September 2005.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

A victory dedicated to the people

By Rawle Toney

SINCE their infamous 11.11.11 victory over Trinidad and Tobago to advance to the semi-final stage of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Guyanese were longing to see the Golden Jaguars, their beloved Senior National Football team, in action. Thanks to the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Normalisation Committee that the almost four-year wait was over, as Golden Jaguars faced St Lucia on Sunday night at the Guyana National Stadium. Guyana, behind goals from Eon Alleyne and Sheldon Holder, roared to a 2-0 victory over the visitors – a win head coach Jamaal Shabazz said is dedicated to the people of Guyana, and a statement for corporate Guyana to support the side.

“It was important for us to win; not for us, because we are very serious about football but it’s for the fans and for corporate Guyana to see that we are very serious,” Shabazz said. He added, “We’ve seen an organisation/committee come together in just under five months and we see football back in and that’s the kind of seriousness; so the victory wasn’t for us, but was for the public and corporate Guyana to see a desire from an organisation that is very serious about taking Guyana’s football forward”. According to Shabazz, for the team, Sunday’s victory brought reassurance to the players, adding “because all the guys made sacrifices, because we took them away from their clubs at a time when they are in an important tournament for them locally and it gives

that feeling and a sense of assurance that if they dedicate themselves to the

they had a point to prove to the previous administration who refused to include them

Neil Danns

Matthew Briggs programme, we’ll go a far way as a country”. The Jaguars faced St Lucia in last year’s Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Championship, losing 2-0 with a squad of mostly uncapped players and captain Chris Nurse believes that the current bunch believe that

in the squad. “I think the team had something to prove because a lot of players felt a bit disgruntled by the way they were left out of the CFU squad last year against St Lucia and a lot of players wanted to prove a point: that had the best team been

selected for that tournament, Guyana would have been playing in the Gold Cup this year,” Nurse said. Nurse, who is said to be Guyana’s most successful captain, pointed out, “We’re still developing as a team, taking it game by game and I think the fitness was better but there’s a lot that we can do as a team. It was a complete performance but we kept a clean sheet and came out with the win and that’s what is important in International football.” Guyana will play Grenada on Sunday, March 29 at Providence and Shabazz this time around will have the services of former Fulham defender Matthew Briggs and Bolton Wonderers midfield player Neil Danns at his disposal. The Englishmen arrived in Guyana and will head into preparation mode for Sunday’s encounter

as Shabazz pointed out: “Matthew and Neil consented and accepted our offer to come and play for us, says a lot but also, we have a couple other players we want to bring in; Pernell Shultz, Trayon Bobb whom we didn’t consider for this (St Lucia) game because we’re in the middle of a tournament and these games are what we’re going to use in the FIFA time allotted to select our final squad so from here, we’ll send some players back to their clubs and bring in a couple and widen the pool.” Shabazz made a loud appeal to corporate Guyana, claiming “to bring the players, it costs money so we would like corporate Guyana to step forward and play your part because football gives everybody a chance to make a contribution to their country”.

CGI, GCB congratulate Jaguars, our historic 2014/15 Champions CRICKET GUY Inc. (CGI) and Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) join forces with the entire Guyana in congratulating our professional franchise team, the Guyana Jaguars, on completing a historic and emphatic victory in the inaugural tournament of the WICB Professional Cricket League. The journey started in 2014 with the selection of the most professional team of players that we could have put together from Guyana and the Caribbean. CGI was the first and only company to have totally embraced the franchise system proposed by the WICB and is extremely proud of this record achievement by the Jaguars team in the very first year of the League.

Leon Johnson Some of the notable accomplishments exemplified by our players have been the complete transformation that the same team has undergone in just a year’s time and the great manner in which the team has gelled and embraced the franchise

league system. Our team rose to the occasion quite quickly and adjusted well to the new system. There have been tremendous performances from almost all of our batsmen and this has begun to translate in selection to the WI team notably, Leon Johnson, Assad Fudadin, Narsingh Deonarine. “We have had excellent performances from most of the other players, namely, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Rajendra Chandrika, Vishaul Singh, Raymon Reifer, Anthony Bramble, and Christopher Barnwell to name a few. “We have benefited a lot with the presence of the evergreen Shivnarine Chanderpaul with the future of our cricket

Narsingh Deonarine looking really great. CGI has also made the bold decision of selecting and retaining another 12 Academy players to our original 15 selected last year and these players will form the nucleus of our development going forward.

`Hurry Up’ Moore confident of convincing victory SUPER bantamweight Leon `Hurry Up’ Moore is in the best shape of his professional boxing career and is promising a convincing victory when he matches gloves with Frenchman Karim Guerfi on May 30, in St Maarten. “I feel good and I am in the best shape of my life. I have trained very hard and there is no doubt that I would be winning this fight convincingly,” Moore said yesterday from his training camp in New York. “I know the importance of winning this one. A victory here would earn me a Top10 rating. So for me it is a career-

defining situation,” the Guyanese stated. Moore and Guerfi will clash for the International Boxing Organisation (IBO) super bantamweight title. The 36-year-old Moore declared that when he wins against the Frenchman, he intends to call out the champions in both the bantamweight and super bantamweight divisions. The May 30 fight was originally scheduled for April 4 but was recently postponed due to administrative issues. Moore acknowledged that the shift in dates had at first caused a disruption in his training but assured

that he is now back on track. “It had caused a little setback but that is now behind me. My training scheduled has been revised and I am focused again.” Moore, who has been campaigning in the USA over the last three years, is being trained by Dillon Carew at the Gleason’s Gym in New York. He fought three times in 2013 but only once last year. At 27, Guerfi is nine years younger than Moore. He has been defeated three times in 25 fights and was the former European bantamweight champion and the flyweight champion of France.

CGI is poised and ready for the future to take our rightful place as the cricket bread basket of the West Indies who need strong Guyana-producing batsmen of a high calibre and it is our aim to continue to produce more high quality batsmen, bowlers and cricketers in general for the West Indies. “We cannot and will not forget our management team who have proved that with their expertise and the correct level of support from the franchise and they have proved that they can motivate our team to

reach their potential. “We must caution that we have not yet reached our peak and there are a few areas that need improvement as we look forward to a short break before the commencement of preparation for the 2015/2016 season. “Once again, congrats to our indomitable Guyana Jaguars team and management! You have done us proud! We trust that even our detractors and the naysayers can join us in basking in the glory and success of a new beginning for Guyana cricket!”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday March 24, 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; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)

India/Pakistan/Sri Lanka/Bangladesh

(2)

1983 (vs ENG)

Today’s Quiz: (1) Who struck a century in the first WC final? How many runs he scored? (2) Who took the first wicket in the 1983 WC final? Who claimed the last? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday March 24, 2015

Scenes from Guyanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2-0 victory over St Lucia at the Guyana National Stadium CHRONICLE Sport photographer Samuel Maughn captures the action at the Guyana National Stadium as the Golden Jaguars defeat St Lucia 2-0, thanks to goals from Eon Alleyne and Sheldon Holder.

A section of the crowd at the Guyana National Stadium

Captain Chris Nurse goes airborne to defend a loose ball.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds is being introduced to the Golden Jaguars players by captain Chris Nurse.

Canada-based Emery Welshman makes a run on goal with a St Lucian defender in hot pursuit.

Head coach Jamaal Shabazz pays close attention to Eon Alleyne during battle.

Guyanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vurlon Mills battles this St Lucia defender for the ball during their contest.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

A victory dedicated to the people See story on page 30

Guyana Jaguars crush Volcanoes to lift inaugural WICB/PCL Trophy

ROSEAU, Dominica (CMC) – Guyana Jaguars needed just about an hour to dispose of Windward Islands Volcanoes by an innings and ten runs, and put a definite shine on their capture of the inaugural WICB Professional Cricket League (PCL) here yesterday. Resuming the day on 113 for six and requiring 31 runs to avoid an innings defeat, Volcanoes lost their last four wickets for 21 runs, in the space of 67 balls at Windsor Park. Opener Tyrone Theophile, unbeaten on 45 overnight, added just two runs before he was bowled by left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul for 47, in the morning’s third over with three runs added. Leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo then ripped through the lower order to claim the last three wickets, to finish with four for 38 while Permaul ended with four for 30. Already assured of the title prior to the start of their final round encounter, Jaguars ended with 148 points to be the clear winners of the competition. They registered seven victories in their nine outings, with a single defeat – coming at the hands of Barbados Pride in round three last December. The Windwards, meanwhile, who started the final round assured of at least third place but challenging for second, ended on 109 points. See scoreboard on page 26

Newly crowned regional four-day cricket champions Guyana Jaguars pose with the WICB/PCL Trophy after defeating Windwards Volcanoes by an innings in Dominica yesterday.

Golden Jaguars roar to an impressive 2-0 win over St Lucia By Rawle Toney WELCOME back Jamaal Shabazz! Welcome home Golden Jaguars! After a hiatus of over two years, international football has returned to Guyana and the country’s senior National football team did not disappoint the thousands who were in attendance at the Guyana National Stadium, as they gave a stunning display in their 2-0 win over St Lucia. It was the team’s first home victory since Ricky Shakes and Leon Cort had scored in their 2-0

win against Trinidad and Tobago on September 11, 2011. Thanks to goals from Eon Alleyne (34th minute) and Sheldon Holder (49th minute), the Golden Jaguars picked up their first win since October 2012 which ironically was against St Lucia (3-0) in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) tournament. It was the seventh meeting between the two countries in international football and the win for the Golden Jaguars was to exact revenge for their 2-0 defeat in the 2014 CFU tournament. In this Samuel Maughn composite photo, Sheldon Holder (hidden) is swarmed by his teammates after Turn to page 26 scoring the second goal of the game while St Lucia goalkeeper lies beaten as the ball rolls in the net.

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TUESDAY MARCH 24, 2015