2015 5 1

GUYANA

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APNU+AFC launches ‘War Manifesto’ Pages

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– Jagdeo rips it to shreds

Bharrat Jagdeo

– says PPP/C has a ‘superior product’

David Granger

Phillips, Seelall, Gentle to lead Joint Services voting tomorrow Page

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International Man stabs artistes arrive wife to death at for Hamara Canal concert – first to be held today at the Stadium No. 1 Page

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Dead: Donessa Joyce-Barker

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Man stabs wife to death at Canal Number One

By Leroy Smith

TWENTY-eight-year-old Donessa Joyce-Barker was killed yesterday afternoon at Canal Number One, West Bank Demer-

ara when her husband attacked her with a knife, stabbing her below the armpit following a domestic dispute.

The incident reportedly stemmed from an old griev-

Dead: Donessa Joyce-Barker

ance between the two over their 23-month-old baby girl and a history of abuse which the woman reportedly suffered at the hands of the man.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle was the dead woman’s cousin, Dumisa Thomas, who said she last saw Doneesa on Wednesday, and that they had a lengthy conversation at the Vreeden-Hoop Stelling.

At that time, Baker reportedly told Dumisa that her husband, Allan Barker, wanted to kill her. Thomas said her cousin did not go into details regarding the threat, but they went on to speak about other things.

Dumisa said when she asked her cousin about her baby girl, she was told that the child was staying at a woman. However, according to Dumisa other family members are not familiar with that person. The woman who the child is staying at also told them that she did not want the baby’s father visiting the home since he appeared to be making moves to have the child taken away from the home.

Asked why the two were having a rocky relationship following their marriage a year ago, relatives said that the man who was very

abusive to his wife and even threw a pot of hot water on her in 2013, causing severe burns to her right side. However, the woman denied the incident had happened and he was not prosecuted.

Family members said today when they got the news that the woman was dead it came as a major shock to them, especially since it was just hours ago that she had expressed fear for her life after claiming that the man had threatened to kill her.

Joyce-Barker lost her father while she was still a child and her mother is residing in the United States.

She leaves to mourn her mother, child and other relatives and friends.

Last evening this newspaper was unable to confirm if the suspect in the murder was in police custody. When contacted last evening, a senior police source in the division said that he was unaware if the man was in custody, but he was aware that the division had recorded a murder.

The senior police officer requested that contact be made with the Divisional Commander Marlon Chapman. Those efforts were, however, unsuccessful as he appeared to have been engaged.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Jagdeo rips APNU+AFC manifesto to shreds – says PPP/C has a ‘superior product’

By Vanessa Narine ANY pursuit of the Political Opposition’s manifesto will be a pursuit of a “hodge-podge” plan that reflects random policies with no strategic framework; no identification of real sources and new sources of growth and revenue; and an economic policy that will result in monetary and fiscal chaos.

“You can pluck things from anywhere, but you have to have a framework, because all these things have to gel together…it is all empty promises that they are making….this manifesto is at best a waste of time,” said former president and People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) executive, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who minced no words in his characterisation of the five-year vision of the Alliance of A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), which was formally launched yesterday.

The APNU+AFC plan has as its central themes: Governance; Constitutional Reform; Public Safety and Security; Women and Gender Equality; Youth Policy; Education; Health and Nutrition; Housing Policy; Sports and Recreation; Cultural Policy; Natural Resources and the environment; Agriculture; Hinterland Development; Tourism; Information & Communication Technology; Income Distribution; and Foreign Relations.

HEADED TO BANKRUPTCY Speaking at a news conference yesterday at Freedom House, Dr Jagdeo said the APNU+AFC compilation is fundamentally lacking, in particular in the area of how the Alliance intends to finance its plans.

APNU+AFC recognises that the achievement of a sustainable industrialisation and development programme requires an average growth rate of at least seven per cent, according to its manifesto. As such, the Alliance committed to “Managing the economy in such a way as to produce

‘EMPTY PROMISES’: Former president, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo as he tore APNU+AFC Manifesto to shreds at yesterday’s press conference (Photo by Delano Williams)

‘For you to spend money, you have to create revenue streams; you have to create wealth before you spend it. If you do not identify sources and new sources of creation of national wealth, and you keep spending more, you will take the country back to the period where we had all the difficulties’ -- Dr Bharrat Jagdeo wider entrepreneurial and job opportunities and more equitable outcomes, so that the bulk of generated income and wealth accrues to the populace as a whole.”

The manifesto also stated that APNU+AFC will: “Commission a comprehensive review of current taxation systems and policies, including the value-added tax, to identify and recommend fiscal innovations that would not only address the adverse consequence of the current structure of taxation, including hardship effects, but would create incentives that could attract needed investment in critical sectors of the economy.”

According to the former president, the grandiose plans have to be financed and yet APNU+AFC has no clear economic plan, nor any clearly identified mechanisms to generate revenue.

“For you to spend money, you have to create revenue streams. You have to create wealth before you spend it. If you do not identify sources and new sources of creation of national wealth and you keep spending more, you will take the country back to the period where we had all the difficulties,” he said.

Dr Jagdeo added that the only way to spend, in the absence of clearly outlined revenue streams, is debt.

“You will have to find a way to finance expenditure and the only way you can do is by debt and if you accumulate more debt you are taking the country backwards,” he declared.

CONTRADICTORY Turning his attention to a few of the ‘grandiose’ plans boasted by APNU+AFC, the former pres-

‘We are proud of our legacy; the successes are a testimony of what has happened (in the last two decades)…we are working on a big vision’ -- Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

ident highlighted that the Alliance has exposed themselves, exposed the contradictions in their positions.

He highlighted the proposed ‘Hinterland Fund’ to advance the development of Guyana’s indigenous people, when in the last 12 months alone millions were knifed from the ruling party’s Amerindian Development Fund (ADF). In the 2014 national budget the cuts included: the Amerindian Development Fund – $1.1B and other Amerindian Programmes, such as ATVs, tractors, etc. – $40M. “We have a huge programme…billions of dollars running into it…now all that is promised is the establishment of a Hinterland development fund? It is an insult to the Amerindian people,” the former president said.

In the areas of housing, Dr Jagdeo underscored the plan for a ‘house rental initiative. Scoffing at the proposal, he stressed that the ruling PPP/C has made significant strides to ensure that every Guyanese can own their own home.

“In this day and age when our goal is to ensure that every Guyanese, young professional, owns their own home, their big plan is a rental initiative…this is shameful,” he stressed, adding that this proposal belies “old PNC (People’s National Congress)” philosophy and ideas.

Further, the former president quipped that the plans for youth development include a national youth council, which is already in existence under the PPP/C Administration.

“They are proposing what are already there,” he declared, adding that other inputs related to technical and vocational education are not novel, but an effort already underway.

Dr Jagdeo added that on the issue of infrastructure, APNU+AFC’s manifesto mirrors that of the PPP/C, with proposals for a deep-water harbour, the road linking Guyana to Brazil and even hydropower, the latter being another contradictory position, given the political Opposition’s

‘You can pluck things from anywhere, but you have to have a framework, because all these things have to gel together. It is all empty promises that they are making; this Manifesto is at best a waste of time’ -- Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

disposition in the National Assembly.

“Doesn’t this look very familiar to you? I can show you that the entire section on infrastructure is lifted word for word from some of the things we propose,” he opined.

All considered, Dr Jagdeo was emphatic in denouncing APNU+AFC proposals as “nonsense” being perpetrated on the Guyanese people.

“The manifesto lacks imagination, some vague promises and some specific promises that are not connected to a strategy, it does not offer how we are going to finance these promises,” he concluded.

MINIMAL CHANGES He reiterated his earlier held sentiments when the political Opposition’s manifesto was leaked.

“The APNU-AFC manifesto is unimaginative, perfunctory, has no strategic clarity and it is sometimes contradictory in its policy prescriptions…some of their promises are outright preposterous and an insult to the intelligence of the Guyanese people,” Dr Jagdeo said.

Comparing the two manifestos, he contends that they were minimal changes made to the final document.

On that note, the former president made it clear that the current administration has a clear vision – Guyana 2.0 – to take Guyana forward.

Guyana 2.0 addresses growth, job creation, generation of wealth, the boosting of the manufacturing and tourism, among sectors, a focus on food and energy security are plans that will be bolstered by several transformational infrastructural projects. Among those listed are the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), an all-weather road to linking Guyana to Brazil, bridges across the Corentyne and Demerara Rivers and a deep-water Habour at the mouth of the Berbice River. Guyana 2.0 is touted as an interconnected plan – a development thrust that will ensure growth on all fronts, supported by infrastructural advances, which will in turn see the generation of wealth, which will then support efforts to advance better quality of living for the Guyanese people.

“We are proud of our legacy…the successes are a testimony of what has happened (in the last two decades)…we are working on a big vision,” Dr Jagdeo declared.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

APNU+AFC launches ‘War Manifesto’

By Ravin Singh TAKING their pact with Guyanese straight to the people at the famous Stabroek Market Square yesterday afternoon, the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition launched what has been described as their ‘war manifesto’, aimed at “fighting” six major wars allegedly plaguing Guyana.

Presidential candidate of the coalition, Brigadier (rtd) David Granger described the

document as “A people’s Manifesto”, which was birthed out of the six-party coalition and aimed at fighting six major wars in the country.

The issues he outlined, were: The war against poverty; the war against disunity; the war against crime; the war against dictatorship; the war against cronyism; and the war against corruption.

POVERTY Addressing a gathering of a few hundred, Granger disclosed that the first war which is to be fought is that against poverty. According to him, too many people in Guyana are currently below the poverty line which is a result of poor management rather than the lack of resources.

“This poverty has come

behind us. “When APNU and AFC came together, we were committed to providing a forum for national unity,” he added.

CRIME Lamenting the current state of affairs as it relates to crime in Guyana, the presidential hopeful related that the war against crime which the manifesto has detailed is one which is to be treated with urgency.

He noted that issues related to piracy, banditry, wife murders, traffic fatalities, gun running and narco-trafficking have all found a place to be addressed in “the people’s manifesto.”

Presidential candidate, Brigadier (Rt’d) David Granger (left) and prime ministerial candidate, Moses Nagamootoo perusing the APNU+AFC manifesto yesterday

about not because Guyana is a poor country” Granger noted, while adding that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) are keeping Guyana in a state of poverty.

“We have more resources

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than any country in the Caribbean. So we have to deal with poverty and this manifesto will tell you how to deal with poverty,” he said.

DISUNITY

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Suggesting that the ‘National Unity’(NU) in the APNU is the basis for the six-party coalition ahead of the elections, Granger explained that disunity is the key factor which has prevented Guyana from developing over the last few years.

When the AFC opted to form a joint alliance with the APNU on February 14, this was a demonstration that we were willing to put disunity

01 0 04

DICTATORSHIP According to Granger, the manifesto is also aimed at fighting the war against dictatorship. In this regard, he alluded to the fact that incumbent President Donald Ramotar had prorogued the 10th Parliament subsequently dissolving it, which he (Granger) is of the opinion could not happen in any country sitting in the western hemisphere.

“You gave us the majority in 2011; you gave us 175,000 votes in 2011,” he told memTurn to page 5►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

APNU+AFC launches...

From page 4

bers of the public, adding that compared to the 166,000 votes the PPP would have received, the Coalition’s representation was that of a majority of Guyanese. But this majority he hinted was one which the PPP “refused to accept.”

“They refused to give us local government elections.

We have a plan to ensure that dictatorship is banished from this land,” an adamant Granger told the public.

CRONYISM The APNU+AFC leader further suggested that Guyana was plagued with the issue of cronyism which their manifesto was capable of combating.

In issuing contracts for public facilities, Granger suggested that “instead of giving efficient and competent contractors, they [the PPP]give it to friends and families” which was the manifestation of cronyism.

As such, the APNU+AFC’s manifesto will seek to eliminate cronyism by establishing a Public Procurement Commission responsible for the awarding of contracts.

“We will make sure if you are living in Sophia or Mahdia, you will get a road that will be a good road; so down with cronyism” a hyped Granger told his supporters.

CORRUPTION The final war that the manifesto will seek to fight is that against corruption, Granger disclosed. Corruption as it is, according to the APNU+AFC’s presidential candidate, is “eating the heart out of this country.”

Relating experiences of meeting people in the Diaspora, he told the gathering that there are people who wish to return to Guyana, but are skeptical of the “crime and corruption.”

A section of the crowd at yesterday’s APNU+AFC manifesto launch at the Stabroek Market Square (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

According to him, citizens want to have a level playing field; they want to be treated fairly. “By treating your public servants so badly, giving them poor wages, you force some of them to do things which are unethical” he said, while adding that the country has good policemen and should his government be elected on May, 12, he will establish a commission to review their salaries.

Charging Guyanese to read and examine the policies in their manifesto, Granger reiterated that “this manifesto is about the war against crime, a war against corruption, a war against cronyism, a war against poverty, a war against disunity and a war against dictatorship,” which will lead people into the future and make Guyana a better place.

RESTORATION Similar sentiments were expressed by prime ministerial candidate of the coalition,

Moses Nagamootoo, who promised the gathering that the first thing the coalition has in store for Guyanese is “the restoration of open and accountable governance.”

This he opined, underlines the manifesto and its policies and programmes which will aid in bringing about an “open society.”

“At the bottom-line of all that we have planned in this manifesto, is how to be able to end discrimination; how to be able to end marginalization; how to be able to end exploitation of our people and how to be able to bring all of our people together as one Guyanese nation coming together for a common goal,” Nagamootoo related.

Rubbishing claims of replication, the prime ministerial candidate assured Guyanese that the coalition “did not copy anyone” in the drafting of this document. They are “original” ideas rather, which will “take this country forward

and resolve the problems of corruption, the problems of crime, the problems of low wages and demoralization among working people and also to take care of the many jobless in our society.”

Included in the manifesto, he explained, are both shortterm goals which are to be achieved within the first 100 days of office and more extensive plans which are part of a five- year plan.

Hinting at some of the short-term plans, Nagamootoo disclosed that within 100 days of assuming office, the coalition intends to, inter alia, implement the programmes to bring you new elections, constitutional reforms and to bring about a procurement commission.“It is the manifesto that has everything for everyone,” he reiterated.

JOINT EFFORT Weighing in on the single most important document from APNU+AFC, which

plays a critical role in magnetizing voters in the lead up to elections, both general secretaries of the major parties forming the coalition, Joseph Harmon of the APNU and David Patterson of the AFC agreed that the manifesto was a joint effort by both the partnership and the alliance.

Harmon detailed that there was no single approach to the policies or programmes forming the contents and sectors were not individually addressed, but were examined through a “joint approach.”

Patterson agreed, suggesting that their manifesto has outweighed that of the PPP’s in that its approach is geared more towards benefiting “the ordinary people.”

“The wage increases for public servants, better benefits for the youths and more jobs for the youths. It’s a unity document; it’s a manifesto to unite our people,” Patterson said.

Earlier this week, a softcopy of a document described as the manifesto had surfaced on social media, appearing on popular local news site, ‘Demerara waves.’ However, subsequent to the “leak,” a statement released by former President Bharrat Jagdeo which reportedly “shredded” the coalition’s manifesto resulted in the coalition issuing a statement informing members of the public that the “leaked”document was not the coalition’s manifesto.

The APNU+AFC plan also has as its central themes: Healing and reconciliation; Governance; Constitutional Reform; Public Safety and Security; Women and Gender Equality; Youth Policy; Education; Health and Nutrition; Housing Policy; Sports and Recreation; Cultural Policy; Natural Resources and the Environment; Agriculture; Hinterland Development; Tourism; Information & Communication Technology; Income Distribution; and Foreign Relations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Celebrating Guyana’s workforce

THE working class citizens are the builders of countries; but if agitated as a mass force by leaders with vested interests inimical to national good they can precipitate massive destruction in nations.

Today is a day that has been specifically identified to celebrate the working-class people of the world and the various trade unions in Guyana would be out in droves, sporting the regalia specific to their individual trade unions, to join together with affiliate labour bodies and listen to their leaders as they expound on the various themes relating to the trade union movement and the extant dynamics in the working landscape in the country.

Like every country the labour force in Guyana had to struggle for various human rights and they could only achieve results by engaging relevant authorities under an umbrella body.

In January 1992, before the PPP/C won the elections later that year, the Library of Congress Country Studies and the CIA World Factbook traced the development of trade unionism in Guyana (with the Government and ruling party being referred to being the PNC regime) as follows: “Trade unions traditionally have played a major role in Guyana’s political life. They began to emerge when Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow mobilised waterfront workers and formed the nation’s first labour union,

The British Guiana Labour Union (BGLU), in 1917.

Since then, union members have become a significant segment of the Guyanese working class. It was from the trade unions that the PPP and PNC evolved and drew their strength.

“Most union members work in the public sector, and trade unions historically have had close ties to the ruling Government. Many of the twenty-four unions in the Trades Union Congress (TUC), the main umbrella group for trade unions in Guyana, are formally affiliated with the PNC. Unions have the right to choose their own leaders freely, but in practice the ruling party has significant influence over union leadership. Government officials are often also union leaders. For instance, President Hoyte has been named the honorary president of one of the member unions of the TUC. “Government-labour relations have been marred by the PNC’s attempts to control and silence the unions.

This control initially was secured through the dominance of the Manpower Citizens Association, a pro-PNC union. When the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) entered the TUC in 1976, the size of the GAWU’s membership (about 15,000) meant that it would be the largest union in the TUC, a status that would entitle it to the largest number of delegates. The PNC quickly contrived a system whereby GAWU ended up with far fewer delegates than it had previously been entitled to, and as such the TUC remained under PNC control. From 1982 to 1984,

Minister of Labour Kenneth Denny and Minister of Finance Salim Salahuddin held very senior posts in the TUC simultaneously with their ministerial portfolios.

In March 1984, the National Assembly passed the Labour Amendment Act, which stipulated that the TUC would henceforth be the only forum through which organised labour could bargain.

“The Labour Amendment Act clearly was designed to stifle labour opposition to Government policies. The law backfired, however, because reaction to it led to the ouster of the PNC-controlled labour leadership, which was replaced by leaders professing to be more independent.

The main resistance to the PNC’s control of the TUC came from a seven-union opposition bloc within the TUC, headed by the GAWU. Many unions, including some of the PNC-affiliated ones, began to criticise the Government.

“In the 1984 TUC elections, the seven-member reform coalition made significant inroads. The coalition candidate for TUC president ran against the PNC candidate and won. The changes in union leadership were a clear indication of the breadth of dissatisfaction with the PNC’s efforts to roll back union power, and with Guyana’s rapidly deteriorating economy. The seven disaffected unions left the TUC and in 1988 formed the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG).”

It is now history that the first FITUG fell apart as PNC-affiliated unions and other persons with vested interests and self-serving

agendas began seriously fighting against Dr. Cheddi Jagan and the GAWU. However, the political affiliation with the PNC by most trade unions continued under the umbrella of the TUC, which used its members, under the guise of labour unrests, to create anti-Government ruckus in the country that oftentimes resulted in destruction of the survival systems, with both public and private properties looted and burnt to the ground.

This state of affairs precipitated another breakaway by dissatisfied trade unions to leave the TUC and reform the FITUG. The United States Department of State estimated in 1990 that 25 percent of Guyana’s work force was unionised. According to a study done by that body, organised labour in Guyana was closely tied to the major national political parties. In 1990, the largest labour organisation, the Trades Union Congress (TUC), comprised eighteen unions, most of which were affiliated with the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) party. President Hoyte was honorary president of the oldest TUC member, the Guyana Labour Union (GLU). British Guiana’s best known labour leader, Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, started the GLU in 1917 (as the British Guiana Labour Union) when he organised dockworkers.

Another important labour organisation was the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), which represented 14,000 sugar workers. The report stated that the predominantly Indo-Guyanese GAWU was

associated with the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Intraparty divisions were reflected in labour organisations: in 1988 seven unions left the TUC in protest at PNC electioneering tactics and formed the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG).

According to the US Department of State report, labour unions played an important role in the anti-colonial movement in the 1960s and in the nationalisation of foreign companies in the 1970s, but the close ties between the TUC unions and the governing PNC party did not guarantee that workers’ interests were always advanced. In 1988 the Guyanese National Assembly adopted a constitutional amendment under which Government no longer had to consult with trade unions on labour and social legislation. According to the government, this move was an essential step toward dismantling the statist economy. As part of the reform programme, the Government effectively cut workers’ purchasing power by repeatedly devaluing the Guyanese currency. Wage increases did not keep pace with the devaluations. Prolonged strikes followed, leading to production losses in all major sectors. During wage negotiations in 1990, the unions were again dissatisfied when President Hoyte announced acrossthe-board pay increases that were significantly lower than what the unions had requested. Economic stabilisation was taking precedence over union demands.

Workers in Guyana received overtime pay when they worked in excess of an eight-hour day or a forty-hour week. But in 1990, about 40 percent of the country’s workers were in min-

imum-wage jobs, earning the equivalent of US$0.5 per day (at December 1990 exchange rates). These low wages, often not enough to even cover the costs of commuting to work, helped explain the high rate of emigration. The Government barred children under age fourteen from working, but the United States Department of State reported in 1990 that younger children did work, often selling candy, cigarettes, and other items along roads.

When Dr Cheddi Jagan acceded to office in 1992, he immediately restored bargaining power to the formerly silent trade unions and increased the minimum wage of public servants, which had been frozen through Hoyte’s much-touted Economic Recovery Programme (ERP – dubbed “empty rice pots” by suffering citizens) at $2,000 per month.

Today, workers’ rights are not only entrenched in the constitution and guaranteed in the national construct, but the labour force has emerged from the depths of depression and hopelessness to highly-enhanced lifestyles and brighter future prospects for upper mobility for themselves and their offspring.

As Guyana’s labour force march in solidarity today, they do so with energy and the conviction that they will not be penalised in any way by the current administration for demanding their rights, if they do not use destructive methods to advance their cause. And that their voices would be listened to and their concerns addressed by an administration that restored to them those rights in 1992.

The Chronicle salutes all workers today!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

PPP: Ours is a proud record

THE following is a statement issued by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in celebration of Labour Day 2015, which is being observed today.

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) salutes the workers of Guyana on the occasion of International Workers Day, or what is commonly referred to as Labour Day, which is observed annually on May 1.

This is a good time to reflect on how far we have advanced in Guyana, especially in terms of gains made by the PPP/C Admin-

istration both at the legislative level and in terms of the implementation of programmes and policies to protect workers against exploitation, unfair wages, and to bring about improvements to their living and working conditions.

The PPP is proud of its record as a pro-labour party which has, over the decades, defended the rights of workers not only in Guyana but throughout the world. It was the PPP which enacted the Trade Union Recognition Bill

and the National Minimum Wages Bill both of which are landmark pieces of legislation to protect the rights of workers.

Regrettably, in Guyana today, the labour movement is fragmented by opportunistic elements who under the guise of representing the cause of workers are aligning themselves with the very forces that were responsible for the pauperization of the working class during the period of PNC dictatorial and anti-working class rule.

At the global level, despite

--as a pro-labour Party finding it difficult to make ends meet, not to mention the millions more who cannot find work and who are unemployed and forced to live on handouts.

PPP takes this opportunity to call on the workers of Guyana to be on guard against those who would make all manner of unrealistic promises, especially at this time when Guyanese

will go to the polls on May 11 to elect a Government of their choice.

The PPP wishes to re-affirm its commitment to a strong, stable and secure Guyana, one in which the working people would be the major beneficiary in the economic and social gains made by the collective efforts of the Guyanese people.

by incompetent, corrupt and insensitive elements, who were strategically placed to obstruct the legitimate and conscientious efforts of the public service workforce, consistently denying workers their rights, which were associated with sound and established principles in full recognition of human rights, justice and fair play.

The absence of good governance, credible institutions and a civil society willing to stand up and assert itself, national unity remained fragmented and countrywide harmony seemed a very distant myth. In fact, everything was achieved under an aura of disappointment and fragmentation, as well as, undue distractions and distortions that decent and law abiding people should not have had to consider.

When considering the foregoing, I proudly salute the traditional public service workforce for their forbearance and commitment, fully conscious of the great personal sacrifice being experienced, particularly our women faced with ongoing outrageous experiences and young workers challenged with demoralising employment opportunities and an unsure future.

Following May Day 2015, on the eagerly-anticipated May 11, 2015, all of Guyana will have another opportunity to determine its choice of Governance at the National and Regional Elections. On this occasion, I would wish that there is the fullest participation of the Guyanese electorate in a peaceful and law abiding manner, consciously contributing to credible, free and fair elections, with such legitimacy that it would have a resounding acceptance by all. These elections should commence and culminate with trust and thereafter there should be a process for the creation of harmony, credible institutions, good governance, comfort, security and prevailing will and spirit of the people to look to the future with expectations and confidence that their dreams of peace, comfort and

happiness would be fulfilled and in the best interest of the nation.

The GPSU, with this expectation in mind, has consciously pursued being a domestic observer in this process and has chosen to make this sacrifice, even with its limited and scarce financial resources, to assist in the validation and credibility of the processes of this most invaluable national event, in the interest of the people of Guyana. The involvement also considered the perseverance and protection of the legacy of the forefathers of the Union, whose struggles were in the interest of the enhancement of workers’ rights and quality provisions for the protection and welfare of their families, which ultimately encapsulates the goals and objectives of the GPSU, which is to protect, preserve and in that process improve, appropriately.

It is therefore in this spirit, and with this expectation, that I extend Labour Day greetings to all members of the Guyana Public Service Union, all workers of Guyana, the Caribbean and worldwide. Let us together pledge and proceed to take action in the interest of and for the betterment of all Mankind.

right policies and the record is one which he is proud of. I wonder if he will tell us that the guns the GDF gave to leaders and other members of the PNC were the right thing to do.

I wonder, really wonder if Granger is sorry that the PNC thugs beat up many PPP leaders, including Nagamootoo. I do wonder if he has apologised to Nagamootoo for the times Nagamootoo himself regaled us of when he was beaten and locked up. I wonder if Granger could tell us that Rodney was a gangster like the Ballot Box Martyrs. I wonder if Granger could tell us if the PNC clothe, feed and housed the Guyanese people, as they had promised. I wonder if Granger would tell us if it is true that Guyana was one of the most indebted countries on earth in 1992. I wonder if Granger would tell us that the cooperative model for development worked. I really wonder

many things about Granger, but I realise if I go on there are not enough space for me to tell you what I wonder about.

I wonder if Moses will allow the Clerk of the Parliament to publish Moses salary record to see if he is telling us the truth about his salary. He told the people at Whim that he never accepted any salary increase as a Minister and as an MP. To protect his integrity, would Moses mind the records to be made public? I wonder how many people ever saw Moses sitting in business class because he told the people at Whim that he never travelled in business class. Did he travel recently to Canada on an economy ticket? I am not saying he lied. I am simply wondering.

I wonder what the military and the police officers think when Granger said they will give 20% salary increase because this is the only way to

stop corruption among army and police officers. Are they offended? I wonder if I am right in thinking this is an insult to all officers because they have been demonised by Granger as corrupt. I wonder what sugar workers must be thinking when APNU+AFC think that their wages and salary package is too big a proportion of GUYSUCO expenses.

I wonder why Moses felt compelled to disavow his Indian-ness to fit in as Granger’s partner. I wonder why Granger felt no need to disavow his African ancestry. I wonder if either Granger or Moses would celebrate Indian arrival day this year.

But I am wondering too much. I will simply vote for the PPP/C so that I don’t need to wonder about these things.

advances in science and technology and the consequential increases in labour productivity, the gap in living standards between the rich and the poor continues to widen.

This is particularly evident in some of the more advanced capitalist countries including the United States and western Europe.

Millions of workers are

GPSU President...

Let us together pledge, proceed to take action --in the interest and betterment of all Mankind

MAY Day 2015 is a time for serious reflection, reassessment of the performance of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), and to ultimately chart a course forward for at least the next decade. This is necessary because the past three decades have seen serious challenges for Union membership, who, over that time period, encountered enormous challenges, which threatened the Union’s survival, constantly undermined its ability and effectiveness to provide representation to members and/or provide other quality of support through benefits that were normally or customarily enjoyed.

Added to this situation, the politicisation of the Public Service Commission, the effects of a non-functioning Public Service Appellate Tribunal and

consequential fallouts, such as, unjustifiable supercessions, unjustifiable denial of promotions, unjustifiable non-payment of increments, unlawful imposition of salaries, compromising of security of tenure, erosion of formal employment and benefits, denial of natural justice and due process, unfair treatment, blatant discrimination and victimization, along with other unwarranted and vicious abuses, were unnecessary and undesirable challenges to workers. These situations ultimately proved to be distractions centered on eradicating the undesirable obstacles, instead of continued objectively applied thoughts and energies towards desired goals that would be fulfilling and beneficial to all, including cementing relation-

ships that would guarantee togetherness in the future.

Notwithstanding the glaring and deliberate anti-working class environment, Public Servants prevailed in a matured and patriotic manner, professionally providing quality public services in the peoples’ interest and ultimately pursuing national development to the best of their ability. This included the delivery of healthcare, education, agricultural development, infrastructural development, aviation, security, revenue collection, environmental protection, beneficial use of natural resources, housing development, the provision of pure water supplies and adequate electrification, among other services. All this was done while being constrained

Things to ponder DAVID Granger and Moses Nagamootoo appear in an advertisement next to a picture of President Obama. Clearly they think that this might fool some people to think that President Obama endorses them. Does either Granger or Nagamootoo think they are like Obama?

In my view, neither of them comes close to Obama. I know that President Obama will never tell anyone to forget the past. He will never tell the Jews to forget the Holocaust or tell Afro-Americans to forget the racism that existed in America and that Martin Luther King was assassinated. That is why he went to Selma to remember the past and on the struggles of African-American for free-

dom from discrimination. He does not want Americans to be trapped in the past, but he certainly does not advocate anyone forgets the agony and shame of the past. Granger and Nagamootoo don’t want Guyanese to remember and reflect on the past because they don’t want to be judged by that past.

APNU+AFC supporters concocted a picture of Michele Obama with a placard reading VOTE FOR CHANGE GUYANA. I wonder if desperation drives them to now use the popular President and First Lady to bail them out. I wonder what the American Ambassador to Guyana thinks and will he be bold enough to tell Guyana

that the US President and First Lady are endorsing Granger and Nagamootoo. I wonder if the President and First Lady of the US even know the names of the APNU +AFC candidates for the Presidency and Prime Ministerial positions. I wonder if David and Moses now feel they cannot sell themselves to the Guyanese people and they need divine help.

Granger said that he has nothing to apologise for. I wonder whether he will address the nation and say that the policies and the record of the PNC which he now leads, which he pledged loyalty to when he was head of the army and for which he swears he was a card-bearing member since then were all the

DR. LESLIE RAMSAMMY

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Let’s beware those hysterical rowdy types

TROUBLE-makers walk among us, wanting to disturb the calm and peace of our national demeanor. Touting themselves as activists and concerned citizens looking out for the society, these types walk around with a nasty scowl, sneering at Government, lashing out at independent minds, belittling anyone not of their viewpoint.

They walk among us with hysterical irrationality, causing all sorts of mischief, pointing out a mountain of problems, never once designing a workable, sane, people-centred solution.

These hysterical, shouting, quarrelsome folks see the Guyanese nation as their beating drum, banging up on our national psyche and spouting all manner of indecent stuff, proud to be a public nuisance and to berate the public square with demoralising, demotivating and destructive, hardened rhetoric.

An d th ey f in d r e ady media coverage in biased, prejudiced national newspapers, on TV programmes, and through internet forums.

We’ve got to beware of this crass ugliness in our society, from these people who grossly disrespect the freely and fairly elected Government of the Guyanese people.

They offer absolutely nothing in rational debates and sensible discussions, instead spouting emotive, irrational, angry accusations, suspicions, allegations and gleefully indulging in grotesque character assassination.

Given Guyana’s lack of sound media legislation, which

would, like in every democratic society around the world, protect our public space from such self-destructive behaviour, we must exercise careful decorum and good sense and depth of character to ignore these types, and let the public judge them for their ignoble, classless, ghetto rowdiness.

Democracy could be a messy business, allowing anybody the freedom and democratic right to berate the national social space, to walk among us with scowls and wicked intent in the heart, taking wicked advantage of our freedoms and our cultivation of a fair playing field in the society.

Human nature is such that our society harbours a vociferous cabal of malcontents, disgruntled and discontented souls who vent their frustration and even personal life issues on the national stage.

Our citizens become victims of this littering of the social space with ugly rhetoric and baseless, scandalous nonsense.

Of course, at the end of the day, the responsibility rests with the national media to cultivate a social space across Guyana that motivates and uplifts the spirit of Guyanese. Unfortunately, our media space needs urgent reform and modern standards of ethical behaviour.

And in this absence of a Guyanese playing field of responsible national media, we’ve got to exercise the personal sense and noble class and public decorum to ignore these types of people.

With wicked glee and a dreadful meanness, these activists and trouble-makers stir

up people they could provoke, pushing for reactions of anger and battle, seeking nothing but to stir up trouble, interested in nothing but crass verbal wars.

They walk about as indecent provocateurs, seeking the fall and destruction of whomever would fall into their trap.

We’ve got to beware of these people. Unfortunately, they align themselves with the Opposition, and find ready access in mass media outlets.

We’re not saying we want group-think, and for our society to be free of dissent and debate and discussions.

The Government of President Donald Ramotar encourages a society of open conversation and a sound democratic flow of ideas, solutions and discussions. We want the Guyanese social space to hum with inspiring and motivating discussions and debates.

But we also want to cultivate a Guyanese society that is responsible in exercising our freedoms, classy in our public discourses, rational in our social behaviour, and always looking out for the uplift and rise of our people.

People look and listen to those who champion themselves as leaders in the society for guidance, moral sense and inspiring mentorship. Guyanese want to see our leaders as role models. We must ignore people to carve themselves out as leaders, only to use their platform to berate and belittle our national mind.

It is of paramount importance that our sensible, respectable leaders never allow these angry souls to reduce our

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

nation to a quarrelsome, rowdy free-for-all, where resort to decent public behaviour becomes a foreign concept to our ears.

Our sensible, respectable leaders must rise above the lawless fray these poor minds perpetuate among us. Exercising personal leadership, discipline, and noble restraint, our respectable leaders must build a Guyanese social space that is immune to these socially destructive types.

These people take advantage of human flaws in our society, of simple little frustrations and people peeves, to generate a national atmosphere filled with language that belittle our self-confidence, damage our morale and keep us feeling worthless.

They make people feel that even our freely and fairly elected Government is out to get us, that we’ve got nothing good going for us, that we can’t even govern ourselves. They don’t

see their own wickedness, believing in their self-righteous self-aggrandisement that they are the epitome of virtue and morals, not seeing that their ways damage the Guyanese social landscape.

We seem not to be able to immune ourselves from this penchant of our free, fair, democratic Guyanese society to give voice to these people, who lack a spirit of contribution, collaboration, cooperation and solution-generation.

In fact, they would sooner walk around with secret recorders looking for stuff to tear us down with, venting their poor souls on our society’s psyche, feeling important and worthy in their self-destructive self-importance.

Let’s beware of these trouble-makers, never allowing them to destroy the calm, peace and smooth flow of our national soul. The Guyanese

nation enjoys the blessed, pastoral, peaceful, progressive atmosphere of a fertile, vibrant, alive land, filled with nature’s best.

Why would we want to spoil this blessed life with these trouble-makers who seek only to tear down our blessed sociall space?

We’ve got to exercise the personal leadership and depth of character necessary to overcome this deformation of our society, in our personal self-leadership, until we create a public square that is immune from such crass ugliness, but yet free and fair and hums with the dynamic energy of sound national discussions, rational, open debates, and a sensible, inspiring flow of ideas, solutions and national conversations.

GTU threatens ‘work to rule’ over ‘debunching’ payments THE Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) has threatened to take industrial action through “work to rule” to protest the non-receipt of “debunching” payments which was agreed some time ago between the union and the Ministry of Education.

The “work to rule” exercise has been scheduled for May 4 and the GTU has called on all teachers to join

the exercise, despite the impending Caribbean Secondary Examinations Council (CSEC) exams.

Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, GTU President Mark Lyte disclosed that “debunching,” which involves placing teachers into different categories and paying them accordingly, was agreed by the Ministry of Education in the 2006-2011 agreement. However, he stat-

ed that they have not received any money.

Lyte added that once again they included it in the 20112016 agreement and again after months of silence, they were told last Wednesday by Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon that the ministry will not be able to make the “debunching” payments to the teachers, as the money had never been budgeted for.

GTU’s President, Mark Lyte addressing members of the media

‘WORK TO RULE’ ACTION As a result of this he announced that he is calling on all teachers across Guyana to commence from May 4 the ‘work to rule’ industrial action, which entails the teachers doing nothing extra for students, just their required day-to-day tasks.

That apart, he stated that the GTU is calling on teachers to go home if issues

affecting them such as inadequate toilet facilities, improper working conditions, excessive number of students in a classroom and more are not addressed.

This industrial action, he said, will last until the Government adheres to their calls for the “debunching” payments. This action could even escalate to a full-scale strike if the need arises, he added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Jagdeo wades into Granger – for ‘hiding’ from presidential debates

By Vanessa Narine DAYS away from the May 11 General and Regional election, the political goings- on have one element missing, the presidential debates.

And executive of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic, former president Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, waded into the presidential candidate of the alliance of A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), Brigadier (rtd) David Granger for “hiding.”

“We are prepared to talk about the issue…we are willing to debate the issues anytime. Our President is still waiting on Granger. He is hiding from a debate.We are prepared to defend our track

record and our vision for Guyana at any point in time,” he said yesterday at a news conference.

Dr Jagdeo added that the current focus, with days to E-Day, is about what the major political contenders are putting on the table.

“It is about what they have to offer and what we have to offer the Guyanese people,” he said.

According to him, the PPP/C is confident in its vision, Guyana 2.0, which represents its pact with the Guyanese people. “We have a good track record and clear vision for the future,” he declared.

Meanwhile, Brigadier (rtd) David Granger, on Wednesday, in an invited comment, maintained that the

APNU+AFC alliance maintains its position – there will be no presidential debates without a prime ministerial debate.

“I have consulted my colleagues and we have made a statement that our participation in the presidential debates is subject to a prior debate by the prime ministerial candidate….this is the decision for APNU+AFC and our decision is final,” he declared.

The ruling party in a recent statement stressed that its prime ministerial candidate Elisabeth Harper, will not be debating the APNU+AFC coalition prime ministerial candidate, Moses Nagamootoo, since it will not allow him to disrespect her further.

UNREASONABLE Additionally, the Private Sector Commission (PSC), which made the offer to host a presidential debate, has come out with criticism of its own in light of the political Opposition’s unwavering demand that a prime ministerial debate be a prerequisite for the former.

This position was articulated by Kit Nascimento, chairman of the PSC news conference held at the Commission’s Waterloo Street office, last week.

The PSC Chairman Ramesh Persaud, added that the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has agreed to a presidential debate but has stood firm in declining the demand for a prime ministerial debate first, from the alliance of A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (AP-

NU+AFC).

Additionally, the PSC Chairman noted that all arrangements are in place for the presidential debate to take place. “If they say yes today, we will be ready tomorrow,” he said.

Meanwhile, ahead of one of the most significant General and Regional Elections, since 1992, there is much anticipation for a debate of current issues and policy matters by politicians bidding for top leadership posts in Guyana, particularly since the manifestos of both major political contenders have been made public.

Earlier this month, another attempt to host such a forum was impeded. Three rounds of town-hall- style debates proposed by the National Communications Network (NCN) have been cancelled after non-confirmation from

the APNU+AFC coalition.A statement from the network yesterday said, “The National Communications Network Incorporated has been forced to abandon its series of debates, which was scheduled to commence [on] Wednesday April 1, 2015, after exhaustive efforts failed to get all stakeholders on board.”

It added that the debate series is aimed at allowing the two main contesting political parties in the General and Regional Elections and other stakeholders to ventilate their positions on several national issues, including the sugar and bauxite industries and crime and security.

Political observers contend that the forced cancellation of the NCN debates and the delays in rolling off the PSC initiative, leading up to the May 11 polls, are unfortunate.

Jagdeo: APNU+AFC ‘getting desperate’ – condemns acts of ‘thuggery, hooliganism’ DESPERATION of the political Opposition has been manifested and compounded by “thuggery” and “hooliganism” in an organised manner that indicates that supporters of the Alliance of A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) are being prepared for defeat at the upcoming polls.

This strongly held contention was expressed by former president and People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) executive, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, at a news conference yesterday.

“They are getting desperate,” he said.

His comments follow a chaotic incident on Wednesday night at Warlock, East Ruimveldt, where a PPP/C

public meeting was interrupted by a band of political Opposition supporters.

PPP/C flags were burned, APNU+AFC supporters involved children in the mayhem they incited, and missiles were hurled at speakers, including party stalwart, Dr Roger Luncheon. Up to press time, no one was reportedly injured.

The incident was widely criticised, given that it occurred on the same day that political parties inked a Code of Conduct aimed at guiding the manner in which campaigning is conducted and these sentiments were reiterated by Dr Jagdeo.

“This is hours after the signing of the Code of Conduct and you had senior members of the APNU+AFC there,” he said, naming

George Norton as one of the officials at Warlock.

He also pointed to other similar moves to intimidate PPP/C members and supporters, including the destruction of PPP/C campaign paraphernalia and the stoning of the home of a PPP/C supporter in Linden, Region 10.

“We have to condemn this in the strongest terms and we hope that GECOM and the international observers are paying attention to this,” the former president said.

The former president charged that these incidents are an addition to the “attacks on personalities,” which deflect from “dealing with issues” – something he stressed that must be the focus of the ongoing elections

campaign.

“The Opposition seems to think that if it goes after individuals it will win the elections. I wonder why and I concluded that they cannot deal with the issues, the issues of their track record, the issue of their contradictory positions in Parliament, anti-national positions and their lack of vision for development…if you can’t deal with the issues the best way to pursue your campaign and propagate it is to go after individuals,” he said.

Dr Jagdeo waded into the Kaieteur News in particular for what he described as aiding the political Opposition with their agenda.

“Rumours are elevated to truth [in these reports],” he lamented, calling for there to be a greater deal of fact-

Former president, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo addressing the media yesterday (Photo by Delano Williams)

checking.

The former president also stressed that the ongoing election campaigns

need to shift paradigms, with the interest of the Guyanese people kept in focus. (Vanessa Narine)

InselAir offering two flights per week non-stop – from Aruba to Santo Domingo INSELAIR will start operating two flights per week from its Aruba hub to Santo Domingo, The Dominican Republic, as of July 1.

InselAir is already serving this destination via its hub on Curacao, but as a result of the increasing demand from both markets, InselAir is now launching a two-weekly nonstop service, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Santo Domingo is already InselAir Aruba’s 10th destination with a direct flight out of

Aruba, since InselAir Aruba started operating in December 2013.

InselAir is the largest airline operating out of Aruba and serves, together with InselAir International operating out of Curacao, 21 destinations. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online via fly-inselair.com, at any InselAir ticket office, via InselAir’s Customer Contact Centre and at local travel agents.

InselAir offers from Aruba to Santo Domingo an intro-

duction fare of AWG 519 and from Santo Domingo to Aruba USD 321.

All fares are based on a round-trip and include Government taxes. Booking and travel period is until August 31 and flights will be operated with a Fokker 70.

Since 2006, InselAir has grown to be one of the best airlines in providing international flexible connectivity to North and South America, as well as to the Caribbean Region.

Due to frequent flights and

a very short flight time between InselAir’s hubs in Curacao and in Aruba, in combination with its extensive network of 21 destinations, InselAir provides passengers great connectivity within the Pan-American Region.

InselAir’s interline partnerships (which include, amongst others, Air Berlin, KLM/Air France, Winair, Avianca and GOL) and code shares (KLM/ Air France) adds further value to this connectivity, allowing its passengers to connect throughout the world.

InselAir is the largest Caribbean-based airline and

expects to carry 1.4 million passengers this year (2015), employs around 650 people, offers approximately 52 daily flights to 21 destinations and plans to grow to 27 destinations in 2015.

InselAir’s fleet consists of a total of 18 aircraft (7 x McDonnell Douglas, 3 x Fokker 70, 6 x Fokker 50 and 2 x Embraer Bandeirante) and is adding more aircraft to its fleet in 2015.

InselAir’s passengers enjoy free food and drinks on board,a luggage allowance of one free, checked bag and ample legroom. Comfort Class passengers enjoy, among oth-

ers, pre-boarding, access to business lounges, extra legroom, extra luggage allowance and premium food and drinks on board.

Destinations in South America include: Manaus, Georgetown, Paramaribo, Caracas, Barquisimeto, Las Piedras, Maracaibo, Valencia, Barranquilla, Medellin, destinations in the Caribbean include Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, St. Maarten, Portof-Spain, Santo Domingo, La Romana, Port-au-Prince, Kingston and destinations in the USA include Miami and Charlotte.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

GDF Health and Wellness exhibition well attended THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) yesterday held its Health and Wellness exhibition at GDF Headquarters front lawns, Base Camp Ayanganna, in which many agencies in the health sector both private and public responded and set up booths to educate and promote healthy lifestyles.

Chief of Staff (COS) Brigadier Mark Phillips said that they are celebrating their 50th anniversary and they have a series of activities to observe the event.

He added that the theme of the health fair signifies the importance of educating all their officers, ranks and employees in gender-based violence, stigma and discrimination and the campaign must not be limited to the promotion of healthy lifestyles among all ranks.

Therefore, our medical policy signifies and facilitates access to good medical care and through their health initiative they will continue to utilize efforts to promote healthy lifestyles in order to improve health in the GDF and by extension the family unit and the communities in which their soldiers

reside, Phillips said.

The COS said, “While in the military we are convinced that there are strong linkages between public health and national security and we devote some of our time to analyse the way public health affects our national security interest in Guyana however, public health practices coupled with stigma and discrimination will hinder our operations and will affect evaluation of prevention and treatment programmes of both soldiers and the civilian population of the Force and wider society.�

Phillips added that the GDF will work towards ensuring that the public health and national security sector benefit all of us not only against communicable diseases, but also gender-based violence and stigma and discrimination in this society.

He said over the years they have had an increase in budgetary allocations to the GDF from central government to deal with health matters that pertain to our soldiers. He also mentioned the significant contribution to our health facility and health initiative in

the GDF from the US Southern Command through its Security Cooperation Office in Guyana,and thanked Commander Robert Novotny and staff for their continued support.

Phillips also thanked the private and public sector agencies for their support in the promotion of healthier lifestyles not only in the GDF, but the community and their locations in the hinterland and many times the GDF primary source of health intervention are people that live in those communities.

He noted that the GDF will however continue to develop medical facilities to promote good health practices among ranks.

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Leslie Cadogan in the feature address said there has been an overall reduction in the prevalence of HIV/ Aids locally, as he gave statistics yesterday.

He pointed out that in HIV/AIDS, antiretroviral treatment is accessible free of cost countrywide and the reports have been good so far. Cadogan added that

they will continue their education awareness in an effort to prevent stigma and discrimination through their many health initiatives and services offered at their health facilities.

Cadogan said they have suitably trained staff in the health sector as they talked of their efforts to fight HIV/Aids in Guyana.

Also making remarks was Robert Novotny of the Security Cooperation Office attached to the US Embassy, Georgetown, Guyana and Programme Manager of the GDF HIV/AIDS Programme, Beverley Gomes-Lovell.

The event was well attended by hundreds of schoolchildren, soldiers and others, who took the time to visit every booth and made use of the services offered yesterday.

International artistes, Natural Black, Taurus Riley and Tanya Stephens along with local artiste, Tameka Marshal was present and was surrounded by schoolchildren and all in attendance as they sought autographs and took pictures of themselves and the artistes.

International artistes, Tanya Stephens, Taurus Riley and Natural Black in attendance at the GDF Health and Wellness Exhibition yesterday

A woman having her blood pressure tested yesterday at one of the many booths set up to promote healthier lifestyles

A section of the gathering yesterday with several booths in the background

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

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Robert Persaud: Guyana not biased to overseas forestry investors

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

–– as $25M project launched to increase forestry compliance

By Tajeram Mohabir

THE Natural Resources and Environment Ministry on Wednesday launched a $25M programme to develop a timber-harvesting and forestry-monitoring model for small loggers associations.

Subject minister Robert Persaud reiterated Government’s support for small loggers.

The one-year Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (FLEGT) pilot project targeting six forestry associations in Region 10 and funded by the European Union (EU) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), also seeks to improve compliance with the forestry laws and agreed management prescriptions in Guyana.

Speaking at the launch at the Forestry Training Centre Inc., Kingston, Georgetown, Persaud in lauding the project that will create employment opportunities for

Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Robert Persaud scores of Lindeners, said no preferential treatment is given to overseas operators.

“I want to refute any perception that there is preference or preferential treatment to non-Guyanese, or to any country or company in this regard; if we discriminate, we do so in favour of local communities.

“We don’t want community forestry organisations or Guyanese operators within the sector to be left behind, and that is why through our own resources and being able to mobilise with our partners, we are building capacity, creating new opportunities and ensuring that these organisations too become compliant and meeting our obligations.”

Persaud noted his pleasure in international partners responding to the Government’s plan and vision to sustainably utilise and manage its forestry resources.

The Government’s vision is outlined in the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), among other strategy papers. It speaks of the way forward for Guyana, utilising its forests in a way that is ecologically sustainable while securing the economic livelihoods of communities within forestry areas.

This is being achieved by ensuring

the laws, regulations and framework for managing the sector are compliant with international best practices and open to international scrutiny.

GOOD STEWARDSHIP RECOGNISED Monitoring and reviews are done by international partners of the Government, and according to Minister Persaud, they have repeatedly testified over the years about the good stewardship.

He also said as part of the plan to ensure sustainable forestry management, a decision was made to involve forestry communities since the under-participation of some in the utilisation of forestry resources contributed to illegal logging and other illicit activities.

“Particularly communities in Region 10, we took a conscious decision when there was a downturn in the bauxite industry to create alternative economic opportunities.

We saw mobilising community forestry organisations as a way of ensuring that these communities found economic viability through the utilisation of forestry resources,” he said.

He also noted that at the same time, through the forestry community organisations, the Ministry has been able to manage, police and safeguard the forests, eliminating widescale illegal logging.

Today, there are 73 community forestry organisations working to ensure the people of Guyana benefit from access to forestry resources.

The Ministry has also been building local capacity and access to the forestry sector through investment in the Forest Marketing and Development Council. The council looks at training, trade, marketing and product development and spends some $35 million annually in this regard.

Capacity building is also done through the Forestry Training Centre Inc., which invests about $60 million annually in training to meet the various skills of the sector.

Minister Persaud reported at the launch that thus far this year some 250 persons have been trained and there is a target to train some 1,300.

VALUE-ADDED This aside, he said, greater emphasis will be placed on value-added and attracting foreign investors to boost the profile of the forestry sector.

Head of the EU Delegation to Guyana, Ambassador Robert Kopecký said the project will ensure sustainable management of the local forests, contending that sustainable forestry management plays a key role as both part of the solution to climate change mitigation and adoption.

He added: “It provides an opportunity for Guyana to strengthen its engagement process to enhance forest governance into real compliance and building country capacity in community engagement for forest policy development and implementation.”

Undoubtedly, the project will enable better management of forestry concessions by the beneficiaries.

The beneficiaries of the project are the

Upper Berbice Forestry Producers Association, Arorima, the Ituni Small Loggers, Maria-Elizabeth/Three Friends, Huruni, and the Kwakwani National Resources.

The project comes along as the Government of Guyana has committed to signing a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the European Union (EU) in the latter part of 2016 to facilitate greater market access for its timber.

As part of the VPA process, the EU and Guyana successfully concluded the third negotiation session on April 16, 2015. The parties also committed to further promoting the identification of synergies among FLEGT, Reduction of Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD+) and the (LCDS processes.

It was agreed that the next negotiation session would be held in Brussels in November 2015.

The Government formally entered into negotiation with the EU for a VPA in December 2012. The VPA is a key element of the EU’s FLEGT Action Plan. A VPA with the EU would facilitate increased market access for Guyana’s timber into the lucrative EU market.

Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Guyana Representative Reuben

Robertson said the FLEGT Project aside from helping loggers to adhere to regulations, will be of great benefit to the beneficiaries.

Head of the EU Delegation to Guyana, Ambassador, Robert Kopecký

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Tourism stakeholders attend Health and Safety Training Seminar

By Rebecca Ganesh

THE Ministry of Tourism and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) and Wilderness Explorers has conducted a Health and Safety Training Seminar for tourism stakeholders.

The training was done

by Explore Worldwide, an overseas-based tour company where 49 persons from fourteen agencies and tour guides concluded their training on Wednesday.

Indranauth Haralsingh, GTA’s Director, explained that the training is very essential for all entities, especially for the tour guides and

(L-R) Director of Wilderness Explorers, Tony Thorne, Sales Executive, Caribbean Airlines, Dion Inniss, GTA’s Director, Indranauth Haralsingh. Explore Worldwide Trainer, Yvonne Ramsay and THAG’s President Shaun McGrath persons who are working at and made special mention of to feel safe when they vis- trained especially in the lodges in the interior. it destination Guyana and remote areas will give them Caribbean Airlines.

He lauded the collaboraThe Director observed knowing that the staff of that comfort.” tive effort of all the entities that “Visitors would like these workplaces have been The Director of Wil-

derness Explorers, Tony Thorne, highlighted that “as a company we take the welfare of both our customers and staff very seriously and we have been serving the Guyana market since 2003.” He noted that the aim of his establishment is making sure the locals have the correct equipment to provide a safe environment for tourists.

T H A G ’s P re s i d e n t Shaun McGrath noted that “events like today’s training is important for our local stakeholders”, as tourism in Guyana has grown dramatically in recent years. He also mentioned that THAG will be looking for some form of feedback from both participants and visitors.

CIIP: Transforming communities across Guyana THE Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Housing and Water under the Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP) commenced the implementation of the $484M project in 2014 and continues with improvements to drainage networks, trimmed parapets, and accessible burial grounds across the country.

CIIP is one of Government’s projects aimed at transforming communities through the improvement of aesthetics and access and creation of jobs at the grass root level. Since its introduction to communities in August 2014, CIIP has not failed to deliver to residents in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

Improvements to communities across Guyana are happening daily through the CIIP project where noticeably cleaner communities with improved access to public facilities are complementing a modernising Guyana.Improved drainage networks, trimmed parapets, and accessible burial grounds are now visible in many Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), targeted municipalities and Village Councils. “These works are being done to create cleaner, safer and healthier communities,

conducive to family life and productivity,” the ministry related.

The construction and rehabilitation of 30 footpath bridges to the tune of $11.3M was another contribution of the CIIP project. Residents of Regions Three, Four, Five and Six are beneficiaries of the timber bridges. Some of the NDCs that benefited are: Golden Grove/ Diamond Place, Beterverwagting/ Triumph, and Mocha- Arcadia in Region Four; Bath/ Woodley Park, and Profit/ Rising Sun in Region Five; and Canal’s Polder, La Grange/Nismes, La Jalousie/Nouvelle Flanders, and Mora/Parika in Region Three.

“These structures have helped to provide access to schools, health centres, places of worship, cemeteries, and small businesses. Linkages between communities including Samatta Point and Kaneville were created, allowing easier movement of persons. These structures are expected to facilitate greater community cohesion and improve the standard of living of residents,” the ministry stated.

The Housing Ministry noted that “thanks to our hard -working Community Enhancement Workers (CEWs) over 50 public cemeteries including those at Rose

Trafalgar Cemetery, located in Region 5, is a sparkling example of works being done by Community Enhancement Workers

Community Enhancement Workers cleaning drains at Gapp Road, La Jalousie, West Coast Demerara Hall Town, Canefield, Bush Lot, and La Belle Alliance were cleaned and cleared of dense vegetation. This was no easy task, since many of the cemeteries had huge trees with wayward branches, tall bushes, swampy areas infested with snakes, and Africanized bee nests.”

“Today, persons could access new burial plots and visit the tombs of their loved ones. For instance, Canefield Cemetery, which is among several cemeteries that were never cleaned, is now accessible.

Some families encouraged by the access created now maintain the area around the tombs of their loved ones. The impeccable condition of the Trafalgar Cemetery situated in Region Five is a sparkling example of the works being done by the CEWs,” the ministry stressed.

It should be noted, the ministry stated, that CEWs have been assisting to clean and clear internal drains and parapets. Over

110 areas, including the remote riverine communities of Orealla and Siparuta have benefited, thus far. “Improvements to the internal drainage networks have contributed to the free flow of water, eliminating breeding grounds for vectors that carry harmful diseases such as malaria and chikungunya.”

During the recent wet season, CIIP responded to flood emergencies in Regions 2 and 4, in areas such as Queenstown, Enmore and Better Hope. The CEWs were tasked with removing garbage and debris which had clogged several culverts and kokers. The local authorities were pleased with the response and expressed thanks for the provision of labour by the ministry.

The CIIP has directly and indirectly benefited thousands of citizens through improved access and aesthetics in communities, as well as through promoting healthier communities.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Legal Affairs Minister tells Charity residents...

There’s always been a historical connection between bandits, the PNC

By Rajendra Prabhulall MINISTER of Legal Affairs and Attorney-General of Guyana, Mr Anil Nandlall has told residents of Charity on the Essequibo Coast that historically, there has always been a connection between bandits of Guyana and the PNC, now APNU. Speaking at the PPP/C public meeting at the Chari-

ty housing scheme junction last Sunday night, Minister Nandlall reminded residents that at the ongoing Walter Rodney inquiry in Georgetown a document produced by the Guyana Defence Force [GDF] has shown that 155 AK 47 assault rifles were taken from the Army and given to Robert Corbin in 1978. The Attorney General in a blistering attack on the PNC, now APNU, said

the Presidential candidate of the APNU +AFC coalition David Granger was in the army as commander in 1978 and he must have known and authorised the handing over of 155 AK 47 guns to Robert Corbin of the PNC. Minister Nandlall asked the large crowd of PPP/C supporters what would a political party want to do with 155 AK 47 guns? According to the Attorney General

Ploughing for autumn crop in progress on Essequibo Coast

RICE farmers on the Essequibo Coast are enjoying the current hot weather condition to plough and chip their fields in preparation for the autumn crop.

Reports said some 38,000 acres are expected to be ploughed and chip and put under cultivation.

Most of the rice crop is

already harvested and farmers wasted no time in burning their fields to start ploughing.

The drainage and irrigation department of the Region 2 Administration will release water from its conservancies and the main canal through a irrigation network to irrigate fields in a orderly and scheduled manner.

Rice cultivation in the Region has expanded under the PPP/C Government and production is more than 1.5 million bags of paddy per crop.

Reports said farmers are anticipating another bumper crop and better prices when harvesting commences August/September.

Former AFC member urges nation to re-elect PPP/C to office FORMER member of the Alliance For Change (AFC) Mr Francis Darchiville, who is now campaigning on the PPP/C platform, is calling on Guyanese to vote solidly for the PPP/C party on May 11 to ensure its return to office to continue the massive development and modernisation of the

country.

Mr Darchivlle, in an address to a large crowd of supporters of the party at a public meeting recently at Charity, said the PPP/C Government has moved this country forward and there is development everywhere. The former Former AFC Councillor of the Regional executive member, Democratic Council (RDC) Francis Darchiville of Region 2 said Guyanese must judge for themselves and see the massive transformation of Guyana under the PPP/C. Mr Darchiville called on Guyanese to be wise and re-elect the party that will continue to build on its foundation and make Guyana into a modern state.

Mr Darchiville who lived in the United States for some 26 years said he returned home because of the development that has taken place under the PPP/C government.

Part of the large crowd at the Charity public meeting (Rajendra Prabhulall)

the retired commander now Presidential candidate does not want to attend the Walter Rodney commission of inquiry to tell the Guyanese people why he gave the PNC 155 AK 47 guns. The Minister said more importantly in 2010, just five years ago, there was a bank robbery at Rose Hall, Corentyne and the police traced the bandits all the way into Mahaica Creek and there was an exchange of gunfire between the police and the bandits.

He said bandits were killed and several AK 47 assault rifles were recovered and when the serial number of

those guns were checked it was revealed that the guns were the very weapons that the Army gave to the PNC. According to the AG the guns moved from the army to the PNC and into the hands of bandits.

According to the AG every time the police shoots a person who is suspected to be a bandit, look at the newspapers and see the outcry of the PNC. He said not once have they ever stood on the side of the police, not once, they always condemn the police.

The Minister said the election on May 11 is very

important and about the future of the children of Guyana. He said the country is at stake. According to Nandlall the PPP/C is going into the election based on its track record for the past 22 years.

He said people should judge the PPP/C on its record and the PNC on its record of 28 years in office.

The Minister also addressed public meetings at Anna Regina New Housing and Columbia on the Essequibo Coast He also along with Africo Selman addressed Essequibians via a live TV programme on RCA Channel 8 at Charity.

Teenaged mother receives supplies from Amerindian Affairs Ministry --as investigations continue

THE teenaged mother of Wakapoa, Lower Pomeroon River who gave birth to twins recently at the Suddie hospital was given a gift of baby supplies and other items on Monday by Community Development Officer for Amerindian communities in Region Two, Ms Melrose Henry, on behalf of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs.

According to Ms Henry, it is a mandate of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs to assist as well as to investigate such cases.

She said the Ministry is the first to make such a donation to the 13-year-old mother.

Reports said the matter surrounding the rape and pregnancy of the school child is under active investigation by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security and the Child Care Protection Agency.

The child and her twin babies are still at the Suddie Hospital. Ms Melrose was assisted by social worker Ms Nadia Seeram in presenting the gift.

Mother of two drowns in Pomeroon River --after epilepsy attack

A 28-year-old mother of two drowned in the Pomeroon River on Monday.

According to reports, the woman, Romona Thomas, was washing clothes on a stelling at Cozier on Monday when she had an attack of epilepsy, an illness she’s had for many years. Relatives said she fell off the stelling into the river and drowned.

Relatives, who went to the stelling, discovered the woman’s clothes but she was missing. A search was immediately launched for her in the river, and her lifeless body was discovered under the water.

Investigations are in progress.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

LIAT offering cheap travel ELECTIONS FLASHBACK from today to June 30 A fight for the

REGIONAL carrier Leeward Island Air Transport (LIAT) yesterday announced unbeatable fares to 17 destinations for a limited time only.

According to the airline, it is making more of its lowest fares available as a reward for those persons who book tickets early to travel at a later date.

In a press statement, the company said customers who wish to cash in on the low

fares need to book their tickets before May 6 for any travel between May 1 and June 30, 2015.

Further it stated that tickets can be booked on liat.com, through the LIAT call centre, airport ticketing offices and travel agents. Seats are subject to availability, the airline pointed out, even as some terms and conditions are expected to apply.

working class

CJ grants $2.5M bail to nine petitioners ACTING Chief Justice (CJ) Mr. Ian Chang at the High Court yesterday granted bail in the sum of $2, 510, 000M to nine petitioners , pending the hearing of their cases.

Following is a list of the offences, the offenders and the amount of bail granted

each offender.

Possession of Narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Kenrick Edwards - $15, 000,000; Harry Narine Persaud - $165, 000; Carlos Petrie - $300, 000; Shane London - $180, 000; Deon Calder - $500, 000; Lonette Roberts - $500, 000:

Robbery under arms.

Daniel De Souza - $100, 000: Simple larceny Hazihidin Mohamed - $150, 000: Causing death by dangerous driving Jageshwar Ragooboo - $600, 000

Picture shows Mrs Janet Jagan engaging members of the working class, whom the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) centred its struggle around “I HAVE always associated myself with the ideology of the working class, and I have led a strong working-class party for the past 47 years. Different people see and call working-class ideology by different names. But what was important were the concrete historical conditions in Guyana and the creation of a programmatic platform that caters to the needs of the working class. In many ways, we were different from the mould in which many people placed us...for me Marxism neither was nor is a dogma, but a scientific guide to action. It gave me strong ethical beliefs in social justice, particularly in helping the poor, the underprivileged and the exploited.”

– Dr Cheddi Jagan, February, 1997.

153 house-lots allocated at Onderneeming ‘Phase 2’ PPP/C Guyana Version 2.0 (Excerpts) – under ‘Live the Guyanese dream’ project

Minister Alli Baksh meeting persons who will be allocated a house-lot at the Onderneeming housing scheme at the one-stop shop at Anna Regina

THE Ministry of Housing recently allocated 153 house lots under the theme “Live the Guyanese dream: Home-ownership made easier” at Onderneeming, Phase 2 on the Essequibo Coast at its eighth one-stop shop at Anna Regina.

Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Alli Baksh who deputized for Minister of Housing and Water Mr Irfaan Ally congratulated the Minister for his vision to set up the one stop shop. Minister Baksh said there is no problem for house lots in the Region only the geographical location of the areas.

He encouraged allotees to make use of their lots and

use their transports to access low income loans from the banks to construct their homes.

Region Two Chairman Mr Parmanand Persaud said the Government is making life better for Essequibians by allocating more house lots in the Onderneeming housing scheme. He said the intention of the Government is to expand in the housing sector and give people more lots to construct their own homes.

Mr Persaud said Government is not selling the house lots as claimed by the Opposition APNU/AFC. He explained that allotees are getting the lots at a subsided cost because Government

has to spend large sums of money to develop the housing areas in terms of drainage, roads, potable water, electricity and survey.

The Chairman also congratulated the Ministry of Housing and Water for holding the one stop shop in the Region.

Chief Executive Officer of the Housing Ministry Ms Myrna Pitt said the theme under which the house lots are allocated is appropriate to the fact that home ownership is one of the most important decision that any one can make in the course of his or her life.

She said it is the business of the Housing Ministry in ensuring that it becomes easier for the average Guyanese citizen to achieve that dream.

The CEO said the housing sector continues to grow and already in Region 2 more than 3,500 lots were allocated in nine areas. She said the Ministry of Housing is considering applications for the 20142015 period. (Rajendra Prabhulall)

Tourism: A New Economic Frontier of Growth WE ARE proud of the development in tourism under our stewardship and we will continue our efforts to establish Guyana as a leading quality and sustainable tourism destination to facilitate national development, and to build tourism as a key economic driver for Guyana.

Guyana will be established as an international quality tourism destination, offering a green, pristine and intact environment, world class eco- attractions and activities, spectacular landscapes, authentic heritage and cultural experiences, outdoor adventure activities, amazing wildlife, home-produced cuisine, indigenous community based experiences underpinned by a friendly, welcoming and professional approach to visitors.

Tourism will be strengthened and reinforced as a strong indigenous industry that supports Guyana’s economic independence by providing employment and revenue generation for the nation’s public and social services.

Our commitments will include: ● Promoting Destination Guyana as the number one Eco, Nature and Adventure Destination in the Caribbean. ● Developing tourist zones that are affordable and built around themes that are reflective of each administrative region, creating infrastructure and employment and helping to boost revenue generation for every Region. ● Improving the safety and security of tourists. ● Developing and promoting domestic tourism. ● Further developing and promoting Guyana as a yachting destination for more yachting rallies and facilitating the establishment of a Marina with moorings and supplies for yachts and small boats. ● Strengthening the Guyana Tourism Authority to increase market demand within the Diaspora, Vacation and Business Target Markets and expansion into existing, new and emerging markets in North America, Caribbean, Europe, China, India, Brazil and the Dutch market ● Commissioning the Hospitality Institute to enhance our human resources capacity to serve a modern, high quality and competitive tourism industry. ● Developing and marketing Guyana as a cruise destination. We will continue to improve our infrastructure to attract more cruise ships to Guyana. ● Developing the Cheddi Jagan International Airport as a regional and international hub for aircraft movement into South America, taking advantage of our geographic location on the northern shoulder of South America while exploring the possibilities of developing natural assets to reach neo-markets.

Promoting Twin Destination Marketing with our Caribbean counterparts, offering a tourism product different from that of the Caribbean.

Expanding incentives to tourism services providers.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Squatters destroy warning signs at CJIA

THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) erected signs recently to discourage squatting on airport lands, but these were destroyed two days after they were set up.

The Ministry of Public Works said in a statement that such behaviour is an extremely worrying situation as the signs were erected just last Monday. This destruction, the ministry noted,

was done by persons who are bent on renewed squatting in the area.

The same area was recently occupied by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for ammunition storage and by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for antenna arrays for flight communications.

“Squatters on airport lands are again warned to desist from this activity be-

cause of its implications for the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Expansion project and the maintenance of law and order in the protection of the property rights,” the ministry stated.

The Public Works Ministry recently highlighted that on Thursday, April 9, 2015, CJIA staff and police stumbled upon this renewed activity in Timehri North, in the vicinity of the GDF ammo

dump and the non-directional beacon (NDB). “The squatters were cautioned to discontinue their actions.”

The Ministry and the CJIA Airport Authority have been in discussions since 2008 and have held meetings and engaged in one-on-one conversations with squatters on relocation options, the airport expansion and health and safety risks of living in close proximity to the

airport.

“Efforts have been made to encourage squatters to apply to the Lands and Surveys Commission for suitable alternative lands. However, many still refuse to take up the offer,” the ministry noted.

The Public Works Ministry ponders what would have stimulated the resumption of squatting on airport and public lands earmarked for a critical national develop-

ment project. The Ministry has been and continues to help squatters relocate to suitable areas to ensure their source of income/livelihood is sustained is also top on the Ministry’s list of priorities.

The airport expansion is crucial to Guyana’s development, and the Public Works Ministry and CJIA remain committed to the project, the ministry’s statement added.

Signs being erected by CJIA

Phillips, Seelall, Gentle to lead Joint Services voting tomorrow

By Leroy Smith COMMISSIONER of Police Seelall Persaud, his divisional commanders and some other senior officers will tomorrow be voting at the Police Officers Mess Hall at Eve Leary, in Georgetown.

Other police ranks will be voting at various other polling places as identified by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for members of the Guyana Police Force.

Meanwhile, over at the Guyana Defence Force, soldiers will be voting at all GDF bases across the country, as well as at the Army’s ‘Agri’ Corps, according to Chief of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle via telephone yesterday, Brigadier Phillips said that all arrangements are in place for the voting and the ranks would be voting at a number of bases, including Camp Ayanganna, Camp Stephenson, New Amsterdam

Chief of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips

Barracks, Coast Guard Headquarters, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, and Anna Regina.

Brigadier Philips would be voting at Base Camp Ayanganna.

According to him, his plans for the day would be to follow his normal routine, which would include physical exercise, having a bath and

breakfast before heading to cast his ballot.

Asked about the security arrangements at the level of the Joint Services in the lead-up to elections and thereafter, the Chief of Staff said that everything is in place. He confirmed that the monies requested from the Government to take care of joint services ranks while they are in-line have been approved and received.

Also speaking on the issue of tomorrow’s voting was Head of the Guyana Prison Service, Welton Trotz who said that he will be casting his ballot at the Guyana Prison Service Sports Club facility on Camp Street, opposite the Camp Street jail.

He said also that there will be voting at the other sport club facilities at prisons across the country such as at New Amsterdam, Timehri, Mazaruni, and Lusignan.

Man killed in minibus was suspect in Post Office $42M heist POLICE SAY...

THE man who was shot to the head twice last Thursday while seated in a minibus at Agricola Public Road, East Bank Demerara, was one of the persons being sought by the police in connection with the $42M robbery in front of the Bourda Post Office on April 01 this year.

The Guyana Police Force yesterday in a statement said that their investigations have revealed that Gladstone George, 32 years, of Agricola was identified as a suspect in that armed robbery.

George, called ‘Brother’, 32, was pronounced dead at the Georgetown Public Hospital after he was shot while in a minibus shortly after boarding it along the Agricola East Bank Demerara roadway the same night that a fuel truck had burst into flames at Two Brothers Service Station and the minibus was stuck in a traffic jam.

There were reports on the night that after the gunman shot the man, he snatched his bag but after realising that it was just a lunch bowl inside, he tossed the bag away and

Murdered $42M robbery suspect, Gladstone George

made good his escape. Reports indicate that the gunman might have thought that that the man was carrying a portion of the cash from the post office robbery at the time he boarded the minibus.

There is the suspicion that the man who is now fingered in the robbery might have been killed by another accomplice in the April 1 robbery after a misunderstanding over the money that was stolen.

On April 01, gunmen bundled a driver and a policeman into a minibus which

was transporting cash to several post offices for old age pension and public assistance distribution.

The gunmen relieved the police rank of a high powered rifle and made off with millions of dollars and later abandoned the police rank, the post office driver and the minibus along Cemetery Road.

The police immediately launched an investigation into the matter and several persons were arrested for questioning. The driver of the post office vehicle was taken into custody while the police rank who was reportedly abducted was placed under close arrest.

Subsequently the police were able to recover the weapon which was taken from the police rank during the robbery. None of the money was recovered from the robbery even as the Ministry of Human Services has been calling for added security to be provided while escorting pension and other funds for public assistance to post offices across the country.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Presbyterian Church hosts ‘Peace Call’ in run-up to elections

By Michel Outridge

THE Guyana Presbyterian Church on Wednesday afternoon held its “People of Faith, United for Peace” call for peace at the Burns Memorial Church on Irving and Anira Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown.

The church service, which was well

Singh, who delivered the feature address on Wednesday night said “it is important to stress the role you have to play in encouraging persons to stand firm for peace, to resist the possibility of polarisation, unrest, violence and destruction in the run up to, during and after the National and Regional Elections to be held on Monday, May 11th 2015.”

Major General (Ret’d) Joseph Singh addressing the gathering on Wednesday night. Behind him, at the head table, are Reverends Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth and Christopher Williams attended and graced by members of the Interreligious Organisation of Guyana among other organisations, was organised to issue a call for peace, tolerance and respect during these “challenging times” where the nation is preparing for national and regional elections.

Moderator of the Guyana Presbyterian Church, Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth said, “As a people of faith, we are called to be a source of peace, love, justice and healing and urge all Guyanese to promote these virtues.”

She added: “We need to encourage our communities and the whole society to promote tolerance, understanding and respect and to refrain from actions and utterances that could lead to polarisation, unrest and violence.”

She noted that it is important that we remind all Guyanese that we are One People, One Nation and One Destiny, with a critical realisation of our interdependence on each other, which is necessary for a peaceful, wholesome and cohesive society.

According to Sheerattan-Bisnauth, who is also Executive Director of the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), the event was organised to call on the leaders of the inter-faith communities and highlight the importance of their roles in encouraging all Guyanese to stand firm for peace, to resist the possibility of polarisation, unrest, violence and destruction in the run-up to and during and after elections.

The church service started with a welcome and call to prayer, songs, scripture reading, musical renditions and hymns by several Inter-Religious Orgnaisation members and others.

Several religious leaders including those that represented the three faiths – Hindu, Muslim and Christian - yesterday challenged all citizens to remain peaceful during this time.

Meanwhile, Major General (ret’d) Joseph

and advertise their manifesto as a programme that will bring the country and its citizen’s benefits.

Singh said, “They offer their vision and mission and set out the goals and targets to be achieved and provide citizens with an overview and some specifics as to how they intend to achieve those goals and objectives.

Meanwhile the media, political commentators, civil society leaders and rights advocates, ensure wide coverage and analyses of all of the events and activities associated with an election campaign, each contesting party’s strategy and tactics, the integrity of political leaders, their personalities, accusation and allegations of wrong doing, identifying limitations- real or perceived, of the system of governance and accountability and the expectations of the citizens, the Diaspora, investors, the donor agencies and the international community.”

He pointed out that this approach, not surprisingly, allows a diversity of commentators, social networks and the media on the one hand to highlight past failures, indiscretions and poor governance justifying the need for change, while on the other hand the incumbent’s examples of achievements and progress are highlighted, justifying the need for continuity.

Singh explained that it is in this environment that the seeds of discord, mistrust and fear are sown. When the element of fear is introduced and accusations against each other

‘You people of faith have chosen to be a source of peace, love, justice and healing and to encourage your communities and the whole society to promote tolerance and understanding and to refrain from actions and utterances that could lead to violence and polarisation’ ––Major General (Ret’d) Joseph Singh He noted that the national elections in a democratic Guyana is an event that should be anticipated and celebrated. It should be a time when constituents or eligible voters exercise their franchise to vote for a political party of their choice which will form the government for the five years.

Singh added that electors are expected to make their own determination in the sanctity of the voting booth at the Polling Place where they are listed to vote, on which political party’s symbol on the ballot paper they will place their mark. They expect that the integrity of the process will guarantee that their votes will be counted by GECOM officials and that the count will be monitored by party scrutineers and designated observers. The results of the counting at the place of poll will then be certified by the relevant officials and the Statement of Poll posted outside of the Polling Place and declarations will be made by the Returning Officer of the Electoral District, and finally by the Chief Elections Officer.

He stated that this sounds simple and uncomplicated but in Guyana, in every election since Independence, there is a tendency in the period leading up to elections to ratchet up tensions as the major political protagonists seize every advantage in their effort to show the electorate reasons why they should not cast their vote for the ‘other’.

Political parties spend a lot of time and resources in their mission of influencing voters as to why they should vote for their Party

are hurled by contesting Parties, the cumulative effect of the negativity takes its toll.

However, not surprisingly, the messages of hope, exciting times ahead and heightened expectations reflected in the manifestos of the parties, seem to get overshadowed by the weight of negative party political propaganda, he said.

Singh added that less than objective re-

porting by media houses and social networks impact on the perceptions of electors and can cause disillusionment, particularly on impressionable young electors who are voting for the first time.

He said it is this kind of unfortunate scenario that has plagued our electoral processes since independence and instead of looking at elections as a renewal of and a recommitment to the democratic process, some persons genuinely view election season with some trepidation and have concerns about safety and security. So every high profile robbery, shooting incident, fire, carbon dust in rice, and political malfeasance, is situated within the context of the election campaign. The speed of the internet and rapid dissemination of information or propaganda through the social media networks, tend to exacerbate the challenges of retaining objectivity and focus on what is truly important - the national interest, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and our legacy to future generations of responsible stewardship of our natural capital – our natural resources and the environment.

Singh pointed out that during the campaign leading up to and during the elections, persons who have traditionally cultivated cordial relationships find it challenging to sustain these because of the extent to which their relationship with their party influences the relationship with the ‘others’ in their traditional sphere of activities – for example in the office, the field, the factory, the university, the community, and even among their extended family.

He noted that it is a measure of the extent to which the fear and anxiety factor has started to affect the citizens that, to a large extent, prompted this commendable pre-emptive action by you, People of Faith United for Peace, and others such as the leadership of the Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches, the Hindu and Muslim leaders, to appeal to the political parties and citizens to choose the path of peace.

“You, people of faith have chosen to be a source of peace, love, justice and healing and to encourage your communities and the whole society to promote tolerance and understanding and to refrain from actions and utterances that could lead to violence and polarisation.”

A section of the gathering on Wednesday night at Burns Memorial Church

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Jagdeo calls on GECOM to deliver efficient elections AT ECCLES…

FORMER President Dr. Bharat Jagdeo has called on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to ensure that they deliver efficient elections come May 11.

Speaking to a sizeable crowd during one of the incumbent party’s public meetings at Eccles, Dr. Jagdeo highlighted the importance of efficient elections, as he called on the international observers and presiding officers along with the help of GECOM to prevent wrongdoing on May 11.

Further stating that, “I saw the head of GECOM said that when I spoke of the stuffing of some ballot boxes in 2011 that it is a figment of my imagination… what I don’t get is that why when the PPP/C raises a concern, he talks about it and he cowards when APNU+AFC calls for something.”

This defensive mode of GECOM’s head will not be tolerated, because every vote matters and this can be proven because the PPP/C lost the majority by less than 6000 votes, as that was equivalent to the number of persons who did not turn out to cast their votes at the 2011 elections.

According to the prominent PPP/C member, the APNU+AFC’s presidential

Former President Dr. Bharat Jagdeo addressing the crowd at Eccles

candidate has been telling persons at their rallies that the PPP/C rigged elections from 1992 to 2011.On the other hand, the Opposition tell their supporters that the People’s National Congress (PNC) never rigged and that every election that the PPP/C won was rigged.

He told listeners at Eccles that how could they have cheated, when during those periods they had quite a number of international observers; therefore, the Opposition is trying to say that the observers cheated too.

Apart from that, he stated that, “Why is it that suddenly the voters’ list is a bad one, although they had three years to make their concerns known, and the only conclusion is that they are prepar-

ing their base for a defeat.”

“The Opposition is not only preparing them for a defeat, but also to say that we have cheated and they have to come on the street; but we need to ensure that the victory is not narrow, we have to come out in large numbers and we can win them comfortably, we can win them because we have remained faithful to the Guyanese people, we can account for our track record and compete for our vision, as we all know what is at stake,” voiced the former president.

Addressing the PPP/C’s loss of its parliamentary majority, Dr.Jagdeo highlighted the fact that the country was forced to mark time for three years, because the Opposition had a one- seat majority

in Parliament and instead of using it to assist in the development of the country, they did the opposite and cut the budget for most of the development plans which the PPP/C had planned to implement.

“All our development was stymied, as the Opposition cut over $80B from the budget largely because of their vindictive nature,” he disclosed.

On that note, Dr. Jagdeo emphasised the fact that “the Opposition is calling for change, but yet he disclosed, they opposed the Berbice Bridge, the National Stadium, the studens loan, the Amerindian Development Fund, the Amaila Falls Hydro Project, and I could list at least 30 things that they opposed … you don’t build a country when you are opposed to positive things.”

Meanwhile, apart from that, he told the gathering that APNU+AFC are saying that the PPP/C has been corrupt and were only filling their pockets and it is time for a change, but he added,“we have argued that we have been the change, we have changed a country that has been bankrupt to what it is today ...today we have the lowest debt services ratio to revenue in the entire western hemisphere, moving from

A section of the crowd on Tuesday at the PPP/C Eccles Public Meeting

4% to service debts from 90+% prior to 1992.”

He underscored the fact that the PPP/C took a bankrupt country and transformed it into one of the most progressive and dynamic countries in the Caribbean with nine years of continued economic growth.

GUYANA 2.0 That apart, Dr. Jagdeo touted the PPP/C’s recently launched manifesto, ‘Guyana 2.0’, which shows how the wealth created could go towards bettering the various sectors, noting that “we are pretty clear on where we are going, as compared to Opposition we have a superior track record.”

He spoke of the plans to expand the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), the Amaila Falls Hydro Project along with some other plans which will prove beneficial for the Guyanese population.

These areas are included in the central themes of ‘Guyana 2.0. The full list of issues includes: Economic Growth: Jobs, Income & Wealth Creation; Transformative Infrastructure; Enhancing the Well-Being of Our People; Fighting Crime & Protecting Our People; Fair Governance; and Guyana in a Modern World. The

preview of the PPP/C manifesto details a vast number of policies and measures that are centred on these themes, which will be pursued.

He disclosed that “the Opposition cannot wish away the positive change,” as the developmental plans which the PPP/C has in store for Guyana will boost Guyana’s economy and other areas tremendously.

APNU MANIFESTO Dr. Jagdeo also pointed out that there were contradictions within the so -called leaked APNU+AFC Manifesto, noting that one such contradiction is their plan which states that 100 days after being elected, they will make an economic plan.

He noted that they said they wanted to shut down the sugar industry and now they are saying that they want to support sugar.

He also told the gathering that the Opposition took sections from the Government’s plans…”some of which included our education plans, education plan, biodiversity plan,” just to list a few, as he further stated that,“I don’t mind them doing that but they do not have the framework for doing that.”

Dr. Jagdeo stated that the Opposition said that they’re going to use money that the PPP/C has, but he said they do not understand that we still have a budget deficit, and there is no money in the treasury and what they see is the money in the Central Bank, which is our international reserves; these amount to over US$800M, and “if they want to use that and if you use that to finance deficits, the exchange rates are going to go higher.”

In closing, he said to the large gathering that “We have a lot more to do together, as our vision of Guyana is one that is deeply grounded and will change the life of Guyanese. We know how much effort it takes to make changes; you can rest assured that every single day we’re going to work to make everything a possibility.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

HARPER TELLS REGION ONE...

‘PPP/C doesn’t want power’ – just to continue ‘the incredible progress’ started in 1992

PPP/C’s Mrs Elisabeth Harper and Dr Peter Ramsaroop addressing the Party’s rally at Port Kaituma

REGION One residents, confident of victory at the upcoming polls for the PPP/C, on Tuesday lined the streets from the Mabaruma and Port Kaituma airstrips to their communities to welcome presidential candidate Donald Ramotar and other candidates.

Shouting “We on the winning side”, part of the lyrics sung by Progress Youth Organisation Port Kaituma member Pamela Calistro for the President, the residents urged each other to “Get your flag and wave for Donald.”

The President, accompanied by prime ministerial candidate Elisabeth Harper and National Top-Up List candidates, Africo Selman and Peter Ramsaroop, as well as several regional candidates, met the residents in their communities for the Region One PPP/C rallies.

The President said Amerindians had been historically neglected by the political Opposition with few developments in their communities and even the few developments did not work well. He noted that they were marginalised, as up to 1992, there was only a single Amerindian doctor and recently under this Government, 33 had graduated.

“They ain’t got no shame,” the President said of the Opposition now trying to convince Amerindians that they care after axing funds from the budget for key projects that would have benefited them, including the Amerindian Development Fund.

“They have a mentality that if they make things bad in the country, they are making it good for themselves.”

He noted that they have sidelined and disrespected Amerindians on their candidates lists, noting that was why Africo Selman left. He also noted that they have

Richard Allen and Sydney Allicock on their regional lists as candidates, but they too will become unimportant when the PPP/C wins the regional seats.

“Over the last 65 years, we in the PPP/C have stood by you. The Opposition had abused our people…Now we ask you to stick by us for an overwhelming victory come May 11.”

Ms. Harper noted that the PPP/C doesn’t want power they “want to continue with the incredible progress that started in 1992 throughout the length and breadth of this country. Progress is for everybody. No one [will be] left behind.[We] want to ensure jobs [are] created and gainful employment in their own businesses,” she said, adding that there are new industries opening up as Government continues to explore the country’s potential.

She commended the Blue Flame Women’s Group in the region who are engaged in making products from Crabwood. “We have to realise that Guyana has so much potential, and we have to begin to embrace that belief; we have to believe in ourselves; we can do so much to become a developed country…our people are bright…So many of you will be voting for the first time; go home and think about the issues that you have read and will read in the PPP/C’s Manifesto; what we want to give to you people to remain in this country and build Guyana,” she said, adding that among those considerations is the provision of scholarships for hinterland students, including athletic scholarships.

“This party has a concern for vulnerable groups in our society,” she said, noting that prevention of domestic violence is high on the agenda for the next term, as well as elderly persons who are dif-

ferently abled, employment for the physically challenged and give employers incentives to hire people who are differently-abled.

She also pointed out that there will be improved ferry services with a new vessel for the region and Government is investing heavily in the road networks.

She said as these developments are taking place, her party is sensitive to the crime situation. “We need to live in a safer, more secure environment, to aggressively pursue measures with law enforcement to allow for a more professional police service and to equip the police and army with more resources to execute functions. Police are humans too with wants, needs and desires as others, so their welfare and interest are important to the Government and caters to their welfare.”

She said her party’s presence in the hinterland is “not just for campaigning, but a signal of long- term commitment to develop Guyana.

So go out early to cast your ballots. Don’t be intimidated by anyone. Go in groups so we can secure victory for you and your children and for the PPP/C to continue the progress it has started.”

Addressing the people at Mabaruma, former A Partnership for National Unity Member of Parliament, Victor Fernandes said he left that party because of the progress he has seen under this Government in Region 1, particularly in health and education. Paul Pierre also echoed Fernandes’s sentiments, noting that 57 primary schools have been built in Region 1 and all of them have trained teachers. “Each community has a school and we have more than 30 teachers studying in Georgetown. We now have health centres and a doctor in every health centre,” he said, adding that the

Mabaruma Hospital has also been significantly improved and now offers new services such as ultra sound.

Referring to the APNU campaign slogan “It is time to respect Amerindian rights,” the Chairman said…“Time to respect Amerindians started in 1992, not now like they now wake up; Amerindians started getting respect and[had] their integrity restored in 1992. We’re now more educated and more healthy. Don’t take chances with your future…the cup is the future of this country,” he said.

Notably present at the meetings were youths, many of whom will be first-time voters. Patrick Ashley, a youth from the PYO addressed the gathering and urged his peers to vote on the basis of the progress they have seen and not the empty promises they are receiving from the political Opposition.

Meanwhile, Ms. Selman, who left the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change to join the PPP said her decision was due to the fact that “I am tired of the corruption and the confusion in the alliance; they are the ones who have to learn to respect Amerindian people and their rights.” She said that given the number of Amerindians that were in the AFC, she expected greater attention to be paid to Amerindian development, but “they are only concerned with themselves. I have seen Amerindian women trampled on, beaten up and kicked out of their houses and they had no place to go before 1992, because there was no Amerindian Affairs Ministry.

How can they say there’s no respect for Amerindians now?”

She noted that “Our future is secure with the PPP/C with the visionary leader H.E. Donald Ramotar. Whichever group you belong to you have

a part to play to ensure the future of this country continues.

Do not be swayed by people who come to “sweet talk” you. You have to protect your dignity and your children… and so when the alliance for corruption decided to cut the Amerindian Fund they cut a part of me and so I decided that I will not stay with a coalition that treats the Amerindian people like that… we have a duty to protect Amerindian people, especially children and women and so we are protecting our right to security and respect, a respect that was given to you by the PPP/C.” Speaking to the PPP/C Manifesto, Guyana Version 2.0, Peter Ramsaroop, candidate on the National Top Up List for the PPP/C, said that included therein is improved transportation services that will open more markets for areas such as Region 1, which is remote.

“Regions such as Region 1 with cash crops and cocoa and cassava will see the benefits and you will have more money in your pockets and you will be able to build your homes and have better lives; and that is what Vision 2. 0 is all about,” he said, noting that the more cassava we grow, the more waste we get out of it, and more these communities will grow and this will result in new industries being opened up and additional career prospects for youths.

“Don’t make any U turn now. We can’t go backwards.

Make sure those two jokers don’t get back in Parliament to cut any budget,” he said, referring to the coalition’s leadership.

Another candidate, Collin Croal, said that the party’s promotional materials were destroyed and no assistance was rendered by the police.

He urged all of Region 1 to be respectful of each other’s right to participate in political

movements of their choice and to express their support respectfully. In the last elections, the PPP/C fell short of 16 votes to get both seats in Region 1.

Regional Candidate Wilbert DeSantos, speaking at Port Kaituma, also noted that “things were bad in those days and the Amerindian people were not even counted as a race. They called us illiterate…People, today we can lift our heads high because we have Amerindian doctors, teachers, health workers, ministers and so on. Today there’s a change under the PPP/C…Indeed we are on the winning side.”

He recalled the horrors of having his home raided when flour was banned and having to eat rice as a constant staple since there were limited alternatives. He also noted that the schools were few and deplorable.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Mr. Fermin Singh, who said the PPP/C has impacted development in Region 1 significantly.

These developments include the linking of several communities via road, according to Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker, who noted that a road was cut from Baramita to Matthews Ridge, which has cut travel from about two days to one and a half hours.

“The PNC is in a state of denial, but we want them to know that nothing they did ever worked,” he said, referring to the cassava and orange juice factories, as well as an initiative to produce cotton.

It is therefore necessary for persons to vote them out, according to regional candidate Shem Cuffy, who urged youths to choose progress under the PPP/C and benefit as he did from a high standard of education, the University of Guyana graduate noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Major youth representation expected at AOG Youth Conference “RESTORING Countries

by My Spirit, sayeth the Lord of Hosts” (Zachariah 4&6) is the theme under which the Assemblies of God (AOG) National Youth Conference 2015 will be held today at the Enmore Community Centre Ground, East Coast Demerara.

The conference gets off to a 09:00hrs start, and a significant youth representation is expected from Assembly of God Churches

throughout Guyana, as well as youths from other religious denominations, according to Mrs. Sandra Daniels-Harte, Member of the National Executive Body of the Assembly of God Youth Department.

The feature address will be delivered by AOG National Youth Director, Pastor Winston Assanah.

The evidently elated Pastor Assanah asserted, “We believe that we have a vision to empower young people

to fulfill their God-given mandate.” He outlined that one of the ongoing works of the Assemblies of God in Guyana, is encouraging young people to spiritually ‘find themselves’.

He said that the Word of God, the Bible, has been proven to be the ideal tool to bring understanding to those who encounter it.

The AOG Youth Conference was organised by the combined Assemblies of God Churches in Guyana,

as they seek for yet another year to bring thousands of young people in one place to worship and praise their God. This forum is an annual feature and its objectives include: ● To provide a platform or avenue for the Church to fulfill the critical mandate of assisting young people, not only to discover their God-given talents, but also to activate them. ● To develop young people

to the place where they can make themselves internationally ready for assignments that Christ is arranging for them.

Meanwhile, another method being used by the Church to address the issue of youth ‘finding themselves’ is the involvement of young people in activities that allow them to become positive role models, boosting their self-image.

Besides the role played in this process by living

in tune with God’s Word, another approach to helping young people ‘find themselves’ is taking part in the performing arts, Rev. Assanah said.

To this end, one of the highlights of the programme will be competition in ten different areas, including: Song competition; Drama; Dance; Dramatic Poetry; Male and Female Quiz competition and Elocution. Trophies will be up for grabs.

Man fined $30,000 for Barbados-bound woman remanded over damaging car windscreen – during rift with mother-in-law cocaine at Ogle Airport A RESIDENT of Craig, East Bank Demerara, was on Wednesday remanded to prison on a cocaine trafficking charge following her appearance before Magistrate Zameena Ali. At Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court, Lonette Robert, 24, pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to her.

Particulars of the charge stated that on Tuesday, April 28 at Ogle International Air-

port, East Coast Demerara, she had in her possession 1.286 kilogrammes of cocaine in her possession for the purpose of trafficking.

The facts surrounding Robert’s arrest stated that she was an outgoing passenger to Barbados when a search was carried out on her person.

Prior to the bust, ranks from the police narcotics branch observed Robert walking in a suspicious man-

ner. A subsequent search was carried out on her person and the prohibited substance was found strapped about her body and also inserted in her private parts. She was then taken to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters for further investigations and the substance was weighed before her.

Bail was denied for Robert and the matter was adjourned to May 29.

A MAN (no address stated) was on Wednesday fined $30,000 by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry for damaging a car windscreen while pelting bricks after his mother-inlaw refused to let him into her house.

Eddy Grant, 21, accepted that on Sunday at Festival City, Georgetown, he unlaw-

fully and maliciously damaged a motorcar windscreen valued $40,000, property of Cleveland Oddle.

Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves related that on the day in question around 12:00 hrs Grant went to his mother-in-law’s house and asked if he could enter. The court heard that Grant was denied entry, after which, he

went around to the backyard and picked up bricks and threw them at the house, one of which hit the windscreen.

The matter was subsequently reported to the police and Grant was arrested and charged. Grant was unrepresented by an attorney. Failure to pay the fine will result in two weeks’ imprisonment.

Miner remanded over possession of illegal arms, ammo A TWENTY-seven-year-old miner was on Wednesday refused bail by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on a charge of unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition.

Rickford Atwell Shepard pleaded not guilty to the charge that said on April 28 at Arangoy Landing, he had in his possession one 9mm semi-automatic pistol while he was not a licensed firearm holder.

He also denied that on the same day at Arangoy Landing, he also had in his possession two live rounds of matching ammunition.

The prosecution revealed that on the day in question, ranks acting on information went to the defendant’s shop and conducted a search and as a result the weapon was allegedly found under a mattress.

He was remanded to prison and the matter was transferred to Kamarang Magistrate’s Court for May 15.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

British national wants fewer questions at airport

By Leroy Smith

FORMER member of the British Guiana Volunteer Force and serviceman in Singapore, Malaysia, Germany and Northern Ireland forces, 75-year-old Cecil Sawh is of the view that there needs to be a better monitoring system at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport with respect to the information requested and given to Immigration Officers there.

On Tuesday, the visiting United Kingdom (UK) national walked into the Guyana Chronicle where he spoke of certain developments at the airport which he considers to be strange to him compared to the previous times he travelled here.

He is of the view that some of the questions being asked by the Immigration Officers are not necessary, as he point-

ed to previous robberies committed on persons on their way from the airport or immediately after they arrived at their respective destinations.

The latest case of robbery against a visiting person occurred two weeks ago when an 83-year-old man arrived at his sister’s Georgetown home.

Cecil Sawh, who migrated in 1959, has been visiting Guyana from time to time.

He said that when he arrived in Guyana last Friday and was passing through Customs, he noticed that the questions being asked of him were too many. He was asked where he was living, how much money he was travelling with and several other questions.

The man, who has experience in security, related that he was very concerned about the line of questioning and took a decision to respond to the questions in a certain manner, which did not provide the

Cecil Sawh

officers with the exact information that could possibly lead to him being attacked on his way to his local destination or as soon as he showed up.

LEAKING INFORMATION TO CRIMINALS He said that based on

the reports he had read about incidents of armed robbery in which visiting persons were victims, he is convinced that the immigration or customs officers are passing information onto persons outside the system about passengers.

Sawh proposes that the system for picking up and dropping off persons from the airport should be more structured. This would entail taxi drivers plying their trade at the airport stating their destinations before leaving the airport among other systems which could be explored.

The UK citizen also suggested that there be greater police presence along the East Bank Demerara route to ensure safe passage of passengers returning from overseas destinations.

Just recently the Guyana Police Force dismantled a gang which it said was responsible for robberies along the East Bank Demerara and illegal road blocks along several parts of the country when persons were robbed and beaten.

The persons who were held in connection with

those illegal acts have been placed before the courts and weapons which were found in their possession were also connected to at least two murders and robberies on the East Bank.

A source close to the operations of the Immigration Department told this newspaper on Wednesday that the questions asked of the man might have been necessary, if he had been identified as a person of interest by a regional watchdog unit, which focuses on security within the Caribbean.

Meanwhile, in recent times, the Guyana Police Force Immigration Department has been rated as having the most polite members within the public sector, given the manner in which officers deal with members of the public at the airports, passport offices or even on the go.

International artistes arrive for Hamara concert – first to be held today at the Stadium

By Raveena Mangal INTERNATIONAL artistes for The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC)

three-staged “Hamara Guyana Concerts” slated for this weekend arrived yesterday and are all set to give big performances

at every venue.

At a press conference held yesterday at the Herdmanston Lodge, well known international Guy-

anese Singer Terry Gajraj, and Marissa Deodat, whose stunning voice is surpassed only by her beauty, expressed their excitement to be performing in Guyana for the IAC Melas commemorating the 177th year

IAC’s Aditya Persaud, Terry G, Melissa Deodat, Minister Robert Persaud and WR Reeyaz

of Indian Arrival in Guyana.

The “Guyanese Baboo” Terry Gajraj disclosed that though he is no stranger to Guyana’s shores, he has never performed for Indian Arrival in Guyana and is looking forward to the mammoth crowds, the host of talented local singers and dancers and the Choka Fest.

Overseas-based Guyanese Marissa Deodat has also returned specifically to perform at these concerts and is anticipating the excitement and fun associated with the IAC’s annual Melas.

Executive member of the IAC committee, Aditya Persaud, reiterated that the first Hamara Guyana concert along with the Choka Fest will be held today at the National Stadium.

The second Mela will be held at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground in Essequibo on Saturday, when Gajraj, Deodat, Butkoon and Raghu will perform and will be backed by the Sangeet Rhythms Band.

The final will be held on Tuesday, May 5, at the Albion Sports Complex in Berbice, where Raghu will be replaced by Neval Chatelal for the Berbice concert with the artistes being backed by the Shakti Strings Orchestra.

Also present at the press briefing was well-wisher and supporter of IAC Minister Robert Persaud.

TV and radio personality WR Reeyaz disclosed that there will also be special appearances by KI and his full band, along with Sally Sargam out of Trinidad and popular dance groups including as Nachgana Dance Academy, Shelita Dance Group, and RoshiniBoodhoo’sJewanKaNritya.

The events will also feature free mehendi and face painting from 5pm to 7pm, along with lots of games and fun activities for the children.

Mini exhibits showcasing the three major religions of Guyana as well as various aspects of Indian culture, plus yoga demonstrations will be on display.

Admission for each of the family-oriented cultural events is free, moreover, free parking and security will be in effect at all the venues.

The IAC is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation established to deal with issues and concerns of persons of Indo-Guyanese origin, and to promote Indian culture in all its aspects throughout Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

TEL: 616-0301 / 699-6156

Nrityageet 36 heads to National Cultural Centre EVERYONE anticipates the spectacular performances and sizzling choreography the Nrityageet Shows bring to the stage.

So, naturally, the buzz continues to escalate as organisers prepare to unleash their 36th Edition, tomorrow evening at the National Cultural Centre.

Directed by Dr. Seeta Shah Roat, this event guar-

antees a gratifying journey into tumultuous waves of love, laughter and romance, depicted through dance.

Customarily showcasing features that fuse dances with Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Folk and Popular, Chutney and Soca, the show also displays Guyanese roots-based influences which are all part of the repertoire for showcase.

Thirty-five years ago, the Nadira and Indranie Shah Dance Troupe first started celebrating the arrival of the first batch of East Indians to the then British Guiana with Nrityageet.

Nrityageet’s presentations showcase multiple dance styles which reflect the diversity of Guyanese roots and contemporary lifestyles. Although with an Indian classical, semi-classical and folk dance base.

Nrityageet dance theatre explores modern ballet, Caribbean and fusion pieces with spectacular costuming, sets and multimedia settings that set the standards for dance, and indeed theatre arts presentations in Guyana.

As the month of May approaches, many cultural organisations are in the throes of preparing for marking the month that carries that special day that is significant for remembering our ancestral heritage – Arrival Day, observed on the 5th of May every year.

Nrityageet presentations

have been recognised internationally for their high standards in dance theatre in Europe and in the United States, and with the prestigious Madame Iffel Award of Barbados for the “Best Traditional Dance”. The Guyana Theatre Arts Awards recognizes this troupe for its “Exceptional Diligence in the Pursuit of Excellence,” for

Bombshell’s most eligible bachelors ...

LAURIS JORDAN

Lauris Jordan assures a red-hot cauldron of desire SOME ladies prefer their men with all rippling and sinewy muscles and a heart-throbbing smile.

Well, of course, there are others who prefer that special dude to be ambitious, intelligent, creative and very adoring.

Bombshell brings to the platter this week 26-year-old Lauris Jordan who claims he has everything a woman can possibly desire. Besides being fun-loving, he is outgoing, smart and ambitious, and certainly has the body to match his arresting virile qualities.

His special lady, for sure, will have to be blessed with a gorgeous body, intelligence and, of course, know how to ‘tickle his fancies’.

Well, this dude certainly knows how to tease.

Sadly, ladies, he did not leave us his phone number.

How disappointing!

So I say to you, my divas, seek and ye shall surely find! Lol.

“Best Dance Production” in 2004, 2003, 2000, 1998, and 1999; “Best Costumes” in 2003, 2002, 2000, and 1997; “Best Sets” in 2003, 2004….

Most significantly, the Nadira and Indranie Shah Dance Troupe M.S. received the National Award – the Medal of Service – for “Sustained and Outstanding Contribution to the Cultural Mosaic of Guy-

ana”, and the New York Folk Festival Award for “Long and Sustained Dance Productions of Excellence.”

The troupe has performed for national and international programmes such as the Inter-Guiana Cultural Festival, CARIFESTA, World Expo, and many other programmes around the world.

Joke of the Day! A NEWLYWED couple moved into their new house. One day, the husband came home from work and his wife said: “Honey, you know, in the upstairs bathroom one of the pipes is leaking.

Could you fix it?”

The husband said, “What do I look like? Mr. Plumber?”

A few days went by, he came home from work, and his wife said, “Honey, the car won’t start; I think it needs a new battery. Could you change it for me?”

He said: “What do I look like? Mr. Goodwrench?”

Another few days go by, and it’s raining pretty hard. The wife finds a leak in the roof. She says, “Honey, there’s a leak on the roof! Can you please fix it?”

He says, “What do I look like, Bob Vila?”

The next day, the husband comes home and the roof is fixed; so is the plumbing; so is the car. He asks his wife what happened.

“Oh,” she says, “I had a handyman come in and fix them.”

“Great!” he snarls. “How much is that going to cost me?”

His wife says: “Nothing. He said he’d do it for free if I either baked him a cake or slept with him.”

“Uh, well, what kind of cake did you make?” asks the husband.

“What do I look like?” she asks, “Betty Crocker?”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Moussy Malt Colour Your Life Promotion rocks Essequibo SCORES of excited spectators flocked the Jaigobin & Son Supermarket in Anna Regina last Saturday for the Moussy Malt’s Color Your Life fourth Drawing.

The winners of the Samsung Smart TV; $20,000 and US$50 cash were Annet Harrison (1st Prize); Hemraj Bhugrami (2nd Prize) and Tekram Sankar (3rd Prize). All winners said they used more than one entry.

This is a sure sign that the competition has grown, and more entries can be posted until the grand final draw on May 30th 2015. The prize then would be a whopping million dollars in cash!

The next drawing will be in Linden on May 9th 2015, at James and Sons Supermarket from 3pm-5pm. There will be a sampling of Southland International Inc’s products, such as the Moussy Malt; Somersby Apple Cider; Blue Waters Cran+, and Royce Energy Drink.

Why not watch the most anticipated match in boxing history with the best tasting European beer right by your side? At 3 for $1000, the following locations are sure to be crowded: The fun will be broiling this weekend at the Garage Grill (South Ruimveldt) live showing with projector; The Hibiscus Lounge (Middle Street); the Airport Bar (Ogle); Stadium View (Providence).

Such excitement certainly deserves a Carlsberg!!

Louie Banks will Rock GT with his 2nd album on the Come Up ‘OTCU’ Vol 2 in June MIAMI, Floridaborn– Hip Hop/Rap sensation Louie Banks takes centre stage right here in Georgetown this coming June for the launching of his second album, “OTCU” Vol2. The album launch marks the begin-

ning of an era for this young and energetic Hip Hop/Rap artist born to Guyanese parents.

“I am able to express myself through music, and as time goes by, I grow to love music even more.It’s what I do, and music is my

life”, said the singer. “I am very enthusiastic at this time. I can hardly wait to launch “OTCU” Vol2 here in Guyana.I’ve chosen to launch here first because of the interest my Guyanese fans have shown over the years; and doing it here as a native Guyanese, I will be surrounded by my friends and families, which has always been my source of strength.”

Louie Banks, who began his career at the age of 11, in Brooklyn, New York byperforming at local functions, is now on the verge of making history with his voice of lyrical value. “OTCU”Vol2 is the beginning of his recognition as a Hip Hop/ Rap artiste.Banks is very confident that this is his time, and he said he would continue to work hard towards his music goals with the help of his family and friends; and, most importantly, his fans. His own motivational words are “From Nothing to Something.”

This coming June, Banks is welcoming his Guyanese audience to a free entrance to his “OTCU” Vol2 album launch.

The next Louie Banks press release would provide more information.

Quote of the Day

Fashion craze? Or has fashion gone crazy?

EVERY DAY, we welcome the grand influx of very amazing shoes that come to our local shores; and yes indeed, our dons and divas most times look very smashing as they flaunt their choices.

But I almost caught a fit when I came across some new shoes which are said to be hot items on the international market. I saw shoes made as

What shocking shoes!

Are these the shoes to die for?

the hooves of cattle, some affixed with heels resembling automatic revolvers, and some so outlandish that I almost swooned with shock.

Well, for those with intense shoe fetishes, feast your eyes and, I dare say, enjoy…

May I ask just one question? Is this fashion craze, or have shoes gone crazy?

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

THE 2ND APRIL FOOL CELEBRATION FOR THE APRIL FOOL BIRTHDAY BOY

THE famed Savannah Suite of the Pegasus Hotel was transformed into a concert of unseen and unheard proportions by Mrs. Latchmin Khan and her children in honour of their local celebrity husband and father, the inimitable Roshan Khan!

The decor was one of enchantment and good thought, displaying sheer class and excitement.

The music and ambience were truly a tease to the eyes, whilst the fragrance of the atmosphere creating romance and pleasant feelings. The people were excited during the cocktails, among them Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud; Crime Chief Leslie James; Mr. Hemraj Kissoon; K. Juman-Yassin, famous Attorney-at-law; Indi Beharry and his wife, and the friends and families of the RK family.

As the guests took their seats, the Khan

sons -- Dr. Rosh Khan and Roshaad AC Lall -- entered with their mother in the centre in sheer elegance and class. The April Fool Birthday boy entered with his beautiful daughters -- Katherina Roshana was her usually charismatic self – and the great RK was proud of his daughters and children, amidst applause and music, to which he danced with his daughters, exciting the crowd.

In a surprise, the African Drummers took to the dancing floor and played Mr. Khan’s favorite African style drumming as the hundreds of guests began clapping and screaming “Yeah! Yeah!” Then the pretty African young lady dancer took to the floor and started a gyration that sent the guests wild with excitement.

It was sheer entertainment galore to see the dancer in her pretty African garb

Fast food Hotspot!!!

collect Birthday boy and take him to the dancing floor in sheer surprise, and invite him to dance.

Mr Khan held his hand on his heart in shock and awe, but he danced with the young lady, moving like a young African from the great land of Africa, and keeping time with all her moves and gyrations, which made the guests laugh and enjoy the proceedings in happiness.

The Masters of Ceremonies were no other than the sons of the Birthday guy; and they were fabulous in their great outfits, their personalities and their voices were as if of another world.

There were Indian dances and much other entertainment, even songs by family friend Charmaine Blackman. This was a non-alcoholic function, but snacks and health drinks were in abundance.

Mrs. Latchmin Khan moved the guests, which included Charge D’Affaires of the United States, Mr Bryan Hunt; Ambassador of the Russian Federation, Mr Nikolay

Smirnov, and his amazing wife; and also the deputy Ambassador; with businessmen and women, expatriates, the reps of the Indian High Commission, and many other friends from local and international banks.

The President of Guyana and other Ministers sent their regrets at not being present at the function, their absence being due to the elections season. It was a guest list that made people realize that this man, who from total obscurity started a business with $7.50, must have done magnificent and honorable things to have made such distinction and contributions to humanity and society.

Mrs. Latchmin Khan, in honouring her husband as her mentor, adviser, teacher and friend, brought tears to the eyes of the Birthday Boy; and it was a kind of shocking pleasure to see him grow emotional -- this man who appears unbreakable and so dynamic shedding tears over the words of his wife, which melted his heart.

‘De Mango Grill’ redefines ‘excellent cuisine’

GUYANA is rapidly becoming inundated with fast food outlets and the many entities proclaiming that they can offer the best in service, taste and quality.

Some proclaim they can up the proverbial bar in presentation, while others vow to keep their customers addicted with the exquisite difference they bring to the table.

Ever so often, many fail miser-

ably to fulfill their proclamations, and would soon dwindle and disappear altogether. When that happens, customers are then left to battle with misgivings and gross disappointments.

‘De Mango Grill’, located at 59 Second Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, is not at all like those fast food outlets described above.

First of all, it is found in a location

that is quite breezy, exotic and comfortable.

This new hotspot is the brainchild of a talented businessman, who, with a team of talented local and international chefs, has spent years researching, soliciting and consulting to finally bring you the best in grilled foods, gourmet specials, Creole dishes, and every imaginable delicacy you can possibly think of. The solemn promise is that the service would ALWAYS be astounding, and delivery would ALWAYS be prompt and pleasing.

Those in search of the ultimate bargain for their socials and other events can certainly consider themselves very lucky, because this entity will be offering an impressive catering service geared at bringing to your door ultimate customer satisfaction.

This joint is gearing for a lavish grand opening on Sunday, May 31, 2015, but a mini opening is slated for Sunday, April 19, 2015 in the form of a finger licking ‘BarB-Que’ and Lime.

Let’s hail the dawn of the best “edda leaf stew and dhal” around Guyana, and pave the way for excellent cook-up rice, burgers, Mexican roast chicken, corn dogs, grilled chicken salad, and irresistible baked fish.

Let’s also salute the grand entrance of chalay chicken, various stir-fried vegetable treats, fish floret, Western fried chicken, New England fried rice, and Italian specials.

Folks at the Mango Grill know your cravings, and delight in bringing you the best; and that is simply because they are several notches above the competition. It’s a fact you will soon be able to attest to!

So whenever you want to experience gourmet at its extraordinarily very best, you now know just what to do: Simply call telephone number 660-5955 and treat yourself to the Mango Grill Experience!

This entity will be offering only take away and delivery services

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

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Friday, May 01, 2015 –– 14:30hrs Saturday, May 02, 2015 –– 14:30hrs Sunday, May 03, 2015 –– 05:00hrs

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Third and final Test starts at Kensington Oval today Permaul called up, Taylor returns for Windies `must win’ Test

… England set to make changes BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) - West Indies must win to draw the series against England when the third and final match in the three-Test series begins at Kensington oval here today.

The homeside look set to make some changes to the team that squandered a position of strength - seemed to be forcing a draw, but imploded and allowed the visitors to cruise to a comfortable nine-wicket win at the National Stadium in Grenada, following the drawn game in Antigua.

Key strike bowler Jerome Taylor, who missed the second Test through injury, is expected to return to bolster the Windies attack on a Bridgetown pitch which is anticipated to provide pace and bounce.

He is likely to replace pacer Kemar Roach who has had a poor series managing five wickets for 53 so far.

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul has been added to the Test squad and will replace leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo who suffered a cut to his ring finger of the right hand and is being treated by the medical staff.

“Bishoo did well for us in the second Test in Grenada but he has a finger injury so we decided to call up Permaul,” said head coach Phil Simmons.

“He (Permaul) was among the best bowlers in the four-day cricket earlier this season, and he also bowled well in the camp ahead of this series – so he’s in good shape.”

Permaul, 25, made his debut in 2012 and has played four Test matches so far with 12 wickets at an average of 37 runs per wicket.

He was the leading wicket-taker in the W I C B ’s P ro f e s s i o n a l Cricket League Four-Day Tournament this year with 67 wickets at 14 runs each.

A late decision is expected to be made on seamer Jason Holder’s fitness after he injured his left ankle during his delivery stride while bowling his second

over in the second innings of the second Test in Grenada.

Veteran middle-order batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul could be under pressure to perform having only passed fifty once in his last nine Test innings.

Chanderpaul is yet to record a big score as he edges towards Brian Lara’s West Indies Test runs record.

“We need to come hard at the English,” declared captain Denesh Ramdin.

“We are one down, so we need to play a little more aggressive and positive cricket.”

There are reports that England may be considering some changes to the team which secured the one-nil series lead in Grenada last week.

Chris Jordan is said to be under pressure to prove his worth in England’s attack after taking five wickets at 45.60 in the series.

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Ben Stokes, who is seen as an attractive option with his all-round ability, is suffering with a sore back and could miss out.

“The normal inclination is to go with the same team because you like to give people the confidence that they are not always playing for their place,” said Alastair Cook, the England captain.

“You get stability when you’re winning and everyone knows his role in the team.”

FULL SQUAD: Denesh Ramdin (captain), Kraigg Brathwaite (vice-captain), Devendra Bishoo, Jermaine Blackwood, Carlos Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shiv Chanderpaul, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Veerasammy Permaul, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Devon Smith, Jerome Taylor.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Hafeez hits maiden double ton, Pakistan in control (REUTERS) - Mohammad Hafeez struck his maiden Test double-hundred as Pakistan feasted on Bangladesh’s limited bowling resources to post a commanding 537 for five wickets on day three and take charge of the opening Test at Khulna yesterday.

Hafeez struck 224 off 332 balls as Pakistan, resuming on 227-1 in reply to Bangladesh’s first innings total of 332, wiped out the deficit by lunch before stretching the lead with five of their top seven batsmen crossing the 50-mark.

Asad Shafiq and Sarfraz Ahmed were unbeaten on 51 each at stumps with the visitors 205 runs

Mohammad Hafeez, who has got out twice in the 190s, breaks the hoodoo and registers his maiden double-ton, before gloving one to leg-slip.

Former NZ coach Bracewell takes Ireland role

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (Reuters) - Former New Zealand cricketer John Bracewell has replaced Phil Simmons as coach of Ireland and will be tasked with helping the associate team become a Test-playing nation by 2019, Cricket Ireland said.

Bracewell, who coached New Zealand to the semi-finals of the 2007 World Cup and recently finished a second stint with English county Gloucester, has signed a contract until 2017.

“He has agreed a deal with us, subject to work permit approval, until the end of 2017, which we both feel is the right time to review our position following the completion of the ICC Intercontinental Cup, which is now the pathway event to the new Test Challenge,” Cricket Ireland performance director Richard Holdsworth said in a statement.

“We feel John’s knowledge gained over a 25-year period in the first-class game will help further develop our current players, but also ensure succession planning for our future squad who aim to be playing Test cricket by 2019.”

The 57-year-old Bracewell, whose nephew Doug is an active Test bowler for New Zealand, played 41 Tests and 53 one-day internationals for the Black Caps as an off-spinner and capable batsman throughout the 1980s.

He takes over a team that failed to make the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand but won admirers by upsetting West Indies and Zimbabwe.

“There is nothing I enjoy more than fighting for a cause and in cricket terms there is none better than obtaining Test status,” Bracewell said.

“Already Ireland have achieved tremendous international results given its financial resources and has gained respect at international tournaments, to the point where they are no longer regarded as a banana skin match but true qualifying contenders.”

Ireland will hope to gain further credibility with victory over England in a one-day international match at home on May 8.

ahead and looking in full control with five wickets in hand at the Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium.

Resuming on his overnight score of 137, Hafeez continued punishing the Bangladesh bowlers and he slowed down only after reaching 190.

He drove Mohammad Shahid for a boundary to reach 198 but could not score off the next 11 balls. He reached the mark against Taijul Islam, scampering for two before taking off his helmet and kissing the turf in a restrained celebration.

Hafeez, who fell three runs short of the 200-mark against New Zealand at Sharjah in November, added 227 runs for the

second wicket with Azhar Ali (83) who was bowled by off-spinner Shuvagata Hom. Next man in Younus Khan (33) was also looking good but was beaten by a Taijul delivery which spun past his bat and hit the top of his off-stump.

Hafeez fell to a soft dismissal after hitting 23 boundaries and three six-

BANGLADESH 1st innings 332 (M. Haque 80, I. Kayes 51) PAKISTAN 1st innings (o/night: 227-1) M. Hafeez c Mahmudullah b Hom 224 S. Aslam c Rahim b T. Islam 20 Az. Ali b Hom 83 Y. Khan b T. Islam 33 Misbah-ul-Haq c R. Hossain b T. Islam 59 A. Shafiq not out 51

es, fluffing his sweep shot and gloving a poor downt he- l eg del i ver y f r om Shuvagata to the leg-slip fielder.

Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq (59) opened his account hitting Taijul for a six and went on to bring up his 27th Test fifty before becoming the left-arm spinner’s third victim in the match.

S. Ahmed not out 51 Extras: (b-5, lb-4, nb-4, w-3) 16 Total: (for 5 wickets, 148 overs) 537 Fall of wickets: 1-50, 2-277, 3-339, 4-402, 5-468.

Bowling: R. Hossain 22-3-82-0 (nb-3), M. Shahid 17-4-51-0 (nb1), T. Islam 36-3-116-3, S. Hom 32-1-112-2 (w-2), S. Al Hasan 31-3-122-0, Mahmudullah 4-030-0, S. Sarkar 1-0-2-0, M. Haque 5-0-13-0.

GSCL/Independence Cup bowls off tomorrow EXCITING softball action is anticipated this weekend when some of the top Over-40 and Open teams battle for supremacy in the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc. (GSCL Inc) Independence Cup, which bowls off today.

Six teams will collide in the Over-40 division and have been placed into two zones with each team from Zone A playing their Zone B counterparts once.

The top four teams will contest the semi-finals tomorrow at Everest (13:00hrs) with the first-placers playing fourth

and second facing third.

Four teams in the Open segment will play on a round-robin basis. The top two will go through to the final. Both finals will be played on Sunday at Everest.

The first-placed team in the Open will take home a trophy and $75 000 and the runners-up a trophy and $30 000. The Over-40 winners will receive a trophy and $100 000 and the runners-up a trophy and $30 000. The man-of-the-match in both finals will be rewarded.

The drawing was held Wednesday at GNIC Sports Club.

In the Over-40 division tomorrow at Everest on

pitch three at 09:00hrs Regal Masters will play Industry Super Kings; Park Rangers will face Tropical Spring on pitch one and Floodlight will take on Shallim Masters on pitch two.

At 13:00hrs, Park Rangers will tackle Industry Super Kings on pitch one, Regal will match skills with Shallim Masters on pitch three and Floodlight will play Tropical Spring on pitch two.

On Saturday at 09:00hrs at the said venue, Park Rangers will challenge Shallim Masters on pitch one, Floodlight will battle Industry Super Kings on pitch two and Regal will clash with Tropical

Spring on pitch three.

At DCC in the Open segment at 09:00hrs today, Regal will take on Shuttle Max on pitch one and Wolf’s Warriors will face Farm on pitch two.

At 13:00hrs, Regal will play Farm on pitch one and Wolf’s Warriors will tackle Shuttle Max on pitch two.

Tomorrow at the said venue, at 09:00hrs, Regal will play Wolf’s Warriors on pitch one and Shuttle Max will take on Farm on pitch two. The sponsors on board so far are Click Technology, Elegance Jewellery and Pawn Shop, Trophy Stall, Digimax Technology and Wolf’s Furniture Store.

Neville Sarjoo Memorial T20 final set for Laluni today LALUNI Sports Club ground will be the venue for the long-awaited final of the Neville Sarjoo Memorial T20 cricket tournament today.

The competition, which is sponsored by the wife and children of the late Neville Sarjoo, is organised by the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association (EBDCA) and saw 14 teams start the competition in 2014.

The final will be contested between North Soesdyke Sports Club and Ruimveldt Sports Club. The first ball will be bowled at 11:00hrs.

There will be a presentation ceremony after the match

where the winning team will receive $20 000 and a trophy, the losing finalists will take away a trophy and $15 000 while the man-of-the-match in the final will pocket $5 000 to go with a beautiful trophy.

Neville Sarjoo was a long-standing cricket administrator who served as a national selector until his death in 1998. It is in his honour that the competition is played on an annual basis on the East Bank of Demerara.

The umpires for the match are Eddie Nichols and Zaheer Mohamed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

Mayweather-Pacquiao final press conference imbued with mutual respect IT WAS perhaps fitting the final press conference ahead of the long-awaited fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao took place in the Kà theatre, home to Cirque du Soleil’s longtime MGM Grand residency, considering the three-ring quality of the build-up to what’s certain to be the richest fight in the history of boxing.

Yet Wednesday’s polite exchange of remarks between the fighters belied the promotion’s circus-like atmosphere and proved typical of what’s by and large the least interesting of fight week’s well-worn rituals, the stations of the cross that mark time until the fighters climb through the ropes tomorrow night – save for one memorable moment when longtime Pacquiao promoter and legendary shade-thrower Bob Arum steered the proceedings into a proxy dick-measuring contest for network superiority Pacquiao was Pac quiao, humble and genial

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao face off for the cameras at the final press conference in Las Vegas on Wednesday. and God-fearing as ever.

Mayweather was the Mayweather that’s become familiar throughout the promotion – let’s call it Floyd 3.0 – a self-assured all-time great who’s all but sworn off his trademark slander in an apparent effort to exit the sport gracefully.

Anyone hoping for fireworks or even the slightest trace of ill-will from tomorrow’s main players was bound to be disappointed.

The event was closed to the public – leaving sev-

eral hundred writers and photographers to fill out the lower bowl of the 1,950-seat theatre – though several Mayweather congregants inevitably negotiated their way into the proceedings and made themselves heard.

Pacquiao’s five-minute remarks were longer than he normally speaks at these types of things. He thanked the sponsors, the media, the fans.

ADVERTISEMENT “It’s going to be a good

fight,” said the Filipino congressman, dressed in a conservative navy blue suit jacket with no tie. “There’s a lot of questions in your minds that only God can answer for us on Saturday. I just want to mention though that everything that I have accomplished, it is God who gave me the strength. I just want to be an example and an inspiration to everybody how my life, before I became a boxer. I used to sleep in the street, starving, hungry, and now I can’t imagine the Lord raised me into this position with blessings I could never imagine - that the boy who doesn’t have food and is sleeping in the street can be raised to this level of life.”

He continued. “Nothing personal. He’s going to do his best; I’m going to do my best on Saturday to put our name in boxing history.

But the most important thing, I’m hoping that after the fight, we can have a conversation with Floyd about sharing my faith in God. We can inspire more people, especially those

Belgian footballer Mertens dies after collapsing on pitch

By Alastair Macdonald BRUSSELS, Belgium (Reuters) - Belgium Under-21 international Gregory Mertens died yesterday, three days after collapsing with heart failure during a match, a spokesman for his club, Sporting Lokeren, said.

The 24-year-old defender had been in a coma since going into cardiac arrest early in a reserve team game on Monday.

Club spokesman Herman Van De Putte told Reuters that his condition continued to worsen and the player’s family had agreed with doctors to switch off the life support

Belgium Under-21 international Gregory Mertens Mertens,” Lokeren said system. on its Twitter feed. “We “With sadness we an- wish family and friends all nounce the loss of Gregory strength.”

Mertens, who joined top flight Lokeren last summer after nearly 100 appearances for Cercle Brugge, collapsed 15 minutes into the game at KRC Genk and despite lengthy efforts to bring him round doctors quickly said his survival needed a “miracle”.

His death shocked many across European football.

“Shockingly sad,” tweeted former England striker and television presenter Gary Lineker.

Manchester City said on Twitter: “Our thoughts are with the friends and family of @KSCLokeren’s Gregory Mertens at this sad time.”

children who are looking to us and supporting us.”

Mayweather, dressed head to toe in red, white and black The Money Te a m a p p a r e l ( t o p p e d by leather baseball hat that retails for $88 in the MGM lobby), spoke for half as long and said maybe a quarter as much.

He thanked the sponsors, the media, the fans. The muted, measured tones that have become his calling card over the past 10 weeks bore little resemblance to the insufferable trash-talker who incinerated hundred-dollar bills in nightclubs, tweeted photos of his six-figure betting slips and collected Maybachs like they were Silly Bandz.

Notably, he thanked longtime adversaries Arum and Freddie Roach – a chief instigator throughout the promotion who’s repeatedly invoked Mayweather’s domestic-violence record – underscoring the love-thy-enemies underpinnings of his latest iteration.

“It’s time to fight now,” Mayweather said. “You guys came out here to see excitement, you guys came out

here to see a great event, and I think that’s what both competitors bring to the table: excitement.

THE BIGGEST FIGHT IN BOXING HISTORY. It’s not the final time the fighters will meet before tomorrow’s career-defining showdown. That will be today’s weigh-in at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, for which the promoters have taken the unprecedented step of charging $10 admission – though tickets on the secondary market were ranging from $136 to $446 on Wednesday afternoon.

So whatever theatrr remains in store was put on hold as Mayweather and Pacquiao – the two finest fighters of their generation – met downstage centre and posed for photographs, then faced inward for a 13-second stare-down that saw Pacquiao break into a wry grin midway through. As he does.

All it seems that’s left is the fight, which – though a tantalising three days away after more than half a decade in the making – can’t arrive soon enough.

(The Guardian).

Six hockey matches scheduled for this weekend

SIX matches in the John Fernandes Insurance Limited Men’s 2nd Division Hockey League are scheduled for this weekend at the St Stanislaus College ground, Carifesta Avenue.

Today from 14:30hrs, All Greys will face Saints, while from 16:00hrs Georgetown Cricket Club will take on Old Fort.

Tomorrow, All Greys will come up against Old Fort from 14:30hrs and Hikers will meet Saints at 16:00hrs.

On Sunday, GCC will oppose Saints from 14:30hrs and All Greys will clash with Hikers from 16:00hrs.

All six matches are first-round fixtures and involve five teams.

Play in the competition will continue next Tuesday with a double-header at the same venue.

Meanwhile, the inaugural Woodpecker Ladies second division league will continue in May with a double-header at the same venue.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

NSC pays tribute to Senior Sports journalist Calvin Roberts THE death of Calvin Roberts has indeed sent shockwaves across journalistic and sports communities.

The 43-year-old father grew up in the West Ruimveldt neighbourhood.

Calvin excelled at youth cricket as a left-handed batsman and a right-arm medium pacer His ability saw him play Second Division Cricket for South G/town and Under-16 cricket for Malteenoes Sports Club. He also served as captain of the Guyana Media Team where he led by example with both bat and ball.

One of his memorable moments in cricket

was when he shattered the stumps of former Guyana wicketkeeper/batsman, Sheik Mohammed at Enmore in a T/20 Goodwill Tournament with figures of four wickets for 18 runs against Tiger Sports Club.

As a journalist, his written works had realised many ground-breaking, insightful and analytical articles, particularly in the area of sports.

His investigative approach and reflective writing had captured in many ways a sense of thoroughness pertaining to the activities being covered.

Calvin demonstrated the willingness to be ever-present at sport events to have first-hand information of activities as they occurred. His writing style aptly described the events and participants in order to grab the attention of readers.

Some of the hundreds of stories done by him thoroughly impacted in a dynamic way on sports in Guyana and the Caribbean.

His completion of over seven hundred stories during 2012 saw him convincingly capture the

Sports Journalist – Print Award at the National Sports Awards Ceremony 2012.

At the time of his death, Roberts held the position of Senior Sports Reporter at the Guyana Chronicle. His loss has saddened all and sundry.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) wishes to extend heartfelt condolences to his wife and children, his mother and siblings, extended family, all his cricket colleagues and friends.

May his soul have eternal rest!

Russell fireworks Busta Soft Shoe finalists clinch victory for to be decided tonight KKR over CSK

JUST two nights of action remain in the inaugural Busta Soft Shoe Football competition after the quarter-final stage on Tuesday evening at the Georgetown Football Club ground.

Tonight, Queen Street of Tiger Bay are billed to face West Front Road while Kitty Weavers, still maintaining an impressive tournament run, will oppose the mighty Sparta Boss side.

There will also be four

Calvin Roberts

exhibition matches tonight, which will see Little Divas Football Team battle G/T Girls then GFC Masters White tackle Colours.

In the other two matches, Cross Street will meet North East La Penitence while Guinness Bar will challenge the Media team.

Tuesday night saw Weavers dispose of Festival City 3-0, as a goal each from Colin Clarke, Wendell St. Hill and Quincy Madramootoo

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday May 01, 2015) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: Edward Hoad (WI vs ENG, 1930) Chennai Super Kings & Rajasthan Royals Today’s Quiz: Which two West Indians were known as ‘The Spin Twins’ at the end of the 1950 WI/ENG Test series?

How many centuries were scored in the last IPL tournament?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

was enough to earn them a semi-final spot.

Sparta Boss won a hardfought match over Sophia to make it into the penultimate round.

They were deadlocked at 2-2 at regulation time but outplayed the opposition in extra time thanks to Gregory Richardson and Devon Millington.

Earlier in the night, Queen Street of Tiger Bay and West Front Road bulldozed their way into the next round with wins over Bent Street and Cross Street/Werk-en-Rust, respectively.

The winning team will take home the championship trophy and $600 000, while the second-, third- and fourth-placed finishers cart off $300 000, $200 000 and $100 000 respectively along with trophies.

The Most Valuable Player will collect $50 000, Most Disciplined Team $25 000 and the respective group winners $25 000.

The second-, third- and fourth-placed finishers within the groups will receive $15 000, $10 000 and $5 000 respectively.

KOLKATA, India (CMC) - West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell slammed an unbeaten half-century and grabbed two wickets as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) edged Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by seven wickets with a ball to spare in the Indian Premier League (IPL) yesterday.

Russell, promoted in the batting order, scored 55 from 32 balls to get his side across the line at 169 for three wickets after CSK totalled 165 for nine wickets in 20 overs.

Russell smashed four fours and a similar number of sixes teaming up with Robin Uthappa to take the game away from CSK. He got to his half-century after hitting Dwayne Bravo for two huge sixes in the 17th over to help boost KKR to nine points in eight matches and to third place in the table.

Uthappa top-scored with an unbeaten 80 which included seven fours and a six.

Earlier Russell picked up two wickets for 20 runs from his four overs as CSK

Andre Russell failed to get off to the ideal start losing Dwayne Smith off the first ball of the innings.

But Dwayne Bravo and Ravindra Jadeja built a steady partnership for the sixth wicket to put on a run-

a-ball 57 to get CSK to a decent position before Bravo was bowled off the bowling of Andre Russell.

Bravo hit four fours while scoring 30 from 32 balls while Brendon McCullum top-scored with 32.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 1, 2015

GCB honours former WI cricketer Alvin Kallicharran ON Wednesday evening the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) took time to honour one of its cricketing icons, former Guyana and West Indies batsman Alvin Isaac Kallicharran.

Kallicharran represented the West Indies from 1972 to 1981 as a left-handed batsman and right-arm off-spinner, and was known for his elegant, batting style.

Recurring tales of his career and his current involvement in cricket were mentioned and commended by guest speakers that included president of GCB, Drubahadur, sports commentator Reds Pereira and secretary of the GCB to name a few.

Present also were members of the 2014/2015 Guyana Jaguars team who claimed the title of the inaugural West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League four-day competition and also made it into the final of the WICB Super-50.

Kallicharran was on point in his remarks saying, “In my entire career what I have learnt is success follows success. What makes or made good cricketers? We can’t be good cricketers in one innings or one spell of bowling; we have to perform consistently over the period of time and make it a habit.”

The former WI captain believes that greater cooperative effort must be made for this country to produce cricketers like they once had.

H e d is clo s ed th at a heart-warming moment is when he sees the younger generation in unity “which tells us, we are one people”.

At the ceremony the Berbician spoke of his path to success. He encountered hardships, but he spoke of the urge and dedication to overcome for the love of the sport.

He said now is the time

for us lay a path for the youths because it’s their time and they have a good career ahead of them.

And president of the GCB, Drubahadur was quite brief in his remarks and stated his appreciation for the assistance the board has received.

“I wish to say that my executives and I have carried out our mandate – and the good work we have been doing can be seen through our teams; Our national team won the four-day and got into the final of the Super50 and also our Under-19s won both tournaments,” the president said.

Venturing back into h i s i l l u s t r i o u s c a r e e r, Kallicharran was a Wisden Cricketer-of-theYear in 1973 then he was part of the 1975 and 1979 teams that won the Cricket World Cup. His highest score is 187 against India in the 1978–79 tour.

He also found success with Warwickshire in English County cricket while playing against minor county Oxfordshire in the 1984 one-day Natwest Trophy, He scored 206 and took 6 for 32.

He attempted to join World Series Cricket, but failed, and was appointed captain of the West Indies in 1977–1978 when Clive Lloyd resigned over the Packer issue.

Kallicharran was later involved in further controversy when he led an unofficial rebel tour to South Africa in defiance of the Gleneagles Agreement and anti-apartheid protesters in that country who declared that official sporting structures were discriminatory.

He saw out the rest of his career playing for Orange Free State and Transvaal in South African domestic cricket.

Former Guyana and West Indies batsman Alvin Kallicharran is presented with his gift by Assistant Administrator of the GCB Secretariat Ms Melinda Bishundyal. (Samuel Maughn photo)

Sport CHRONICLE

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

GCB honours former WI cricketer Alvin Kallicharran See Story on Page 47

Third and final Test starts at Kensington Oval today See Story on Page 43

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul has been added to the Test squad.

Permaul called up, Taylor returns for Windies `must win’ Test

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FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2015