2015 6 11

GUYANA

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

President signals greater autonomy for Legislature No. 104217 THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

PRICE: $80

Page

36 APNU+AFC MPs sworn in as 11th Parliament opens 14

3

INCLUDING VAT

Page

– at least a dozen are first timers

Convening Guyana’s 11th Parliament! Guyanese Head of State, Brigadier (rtd) David Granger, on the dais awaiting the Presidential Salute, with the Heads of the Disciplined Services (at left) and (from right) Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs; Speaker of the House, Dr Barton Scotland; and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo in the compound of the Public Buildings ahead of the convening of the Life of the 11th Parliament (Samuel Maughn photo)

Venezuela’s action 12 shameless, baseless – defies norms, conventions that govern Page

Carl Greenidge

relations between states

Dr Barton Scotland elected as Speaker

President David Granger being greeted by enthusiastic supporters outside Public Buildings yesterday (Delano Williams photo)

Page

2

Dr Barton Scotland

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Dr Barton Scotland elected as Speaker of National Assembly DISTINGUISHED former Guyanese Diplomat, Dr Barton Scotland, was appointed unopposed as Speaker of the National Assembly during the convening of the historic l1th Parliament, yesterday.

Nominated by Government’s Chief Whip Ms Amna Ali, who is also Minister of Social Cohesion, and seconded by Mrs. Cathy Hughes, Minister of Tourism, Dr Scotland’s appointment as the eighth Speaker comes as a fulfilment of popular expectation.

Upon acceding to the highly responsible Speaker’s position, Dr Scotland declared that the election presented an opportunity (for

The eighth Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland in his chair

all) to join and work together.

“By electing me Speaker, you have presented me with the opportunity to join with you in fulfilling the legislative programme. I invite you

Dr Barton Scotland takes the oath of Speaker of the National Assembly

to let us work together to that end and may our efforts be crowned with success.”

Meanwhile, President David Granger, in his address at the opening of the 11th Session, congratulated the new Speaker.

“He is a public servant of professional eminence, academic experience and unquestionable allegiance to our country. He will add lustre to the highest legislative forum in our land as the Speaker of this Assembly,” President Granger said.

Dr Scotland is a legal luminary who has served with distinction in several Diplomatic missions. He also led the Department of International Economic Co-operation during Desmond Hoyte’s

Presidency. He also served as a Commissioner on the CARICOM Competition Commission which was launched in 2008, later becoming its Chairman.

In his private practice, he was involved in the areas of Natural Resources and Investment Law and International law.

True to the Cummingsburg Accord, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) had agreed that the Speaker of the House must come from Civil Society, and to this end, Dr Scotland is not only its realisation, but one of great eminence.

Dr Scotland follows on the heels of Mr Raphael Trotman, who was Speaker of the House during the 2011-

2015 period. Others who served in this capacity, dating back to 1953, include: Sir Eustace Woolford (O.B.E., Q.C.) 1953-1957; Sir Donald Jackson (K.B.) 1957-1967; Mr. Rahman Gajraj (C.B.E., J.P.) 1961-1964; Mr Aubrey Alleyne 1964-1967; Mr Rahman Gajraj (C.B.E., J.P.) 1968-1970; Mr Sase Narain (O.R. S.C., J.P.) 1971-1992; Mr Derek Chunilall (O.R. C.C.H., S.C.,J.P.) 1992-2000; Mrs Clarissa Riehl (ag) Oct. 15, 2000 - Oct. 23, 2000; Mr Martin Zephyr 200-2001; Mr Ralph Ramkaran 2001 - 2011.

The appointment of the Deputy Speaker was not realised yesterday. Absent from yesterday’s ceremonial opening was the Opposition PPP/C.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland consults with Clerk of the Assembly Mr Sherlock Isaacs

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

OPENING OF 11TH PARLIAMENT…

President signals greater autonomy for Legislature – lays concrete agenda

By Gary Eleazar JUST shy of a year since its last meeting and its subsequent prorogation, the hallowed Chambers of the National Assembly were yesterday reopened and Head of State, President David Granger, convened the 11th Parliament, and in a comprehensive address, he promised greater autonomy for the Legislature.

Guyana’s eighth Executive President also said that no income tax will be paid this year by minimum wage earners; there will be no increases in income tax rates, Value-Added Tax (VAT) or National

Insurance Scheme (NIS) contributions this year; but there will be a ‘moderate’ increase in pensionable earnings for the elderly and wages for public sector employees.

ORDER OF BUSINESS Convened promptly at 14:00 hrs by Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs, the 33 Members of the APNU+AFC Government, taking their seats in the House, assembled to be administered the Oath of Office.

Isaacs informed those gathered of the Proclamation issued by President Granger, that the life of the 11th Parliament be convened at that

appointed time.

He informed the House of those names supplied to become members of the 11th Parliament for the APNU+AFC Government, and indicated too that he had not been given any list of names of persons by the Chief Elections Officer for those members of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), as was evident by the 32 empty seats reserved for the Opposition west of the aisle in the Chambers.

He told the House that Ms Amna Ally was appointed as the Government’s Chief Whip and she in turn nominated Dr Barton Scotland to be elected as Speaker of the House, the first official order of business, which was seconded by Mrs Catherine Hughes.

Dr Scotland’s nomination

President David Granger being greeted by enthusiastic supporters

President David Granger inspects the Guard of Honour Look at the camera! This is what the President seems to be telling this lucky lad

President David Granger greets persons at the barricades outside the Public Building

was unchallenged, but the post of Deputy Speaker will continue to remain vacant, at least in the immediate future, since the House was informed that the individual will be chosen from the ranks of the Opposition.

The House will reconvene in two weeks to commence with its business, since all of the Government members were administered the Oath of Office of Member of Parliament by the newly-elected Speaker, Dr Scotland.

Following his ascension to the office of Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Scotland expressed his deepest appreciation at the opportunity to join with members of the House in fulfilling the legislative agenda

for the people of Guyana.

The Honourable Moses Veerasaamy Nagamootoo, headed the swearing-in ceremony yesterday, since as Prime Minister and First Vice President, he will lead Government’s business in the House.

The Prime Minister, welcoming the newly-elected Speaker to the House of elected representatives, recalled that he would have first crossed paths with him under his tutelage at the University of Guyana where Dr Scotland taught International Law. Nagamootoo said he is confident in Dr Scotland as Leader of the House, and looks forward to being able to rely on his impartiality and schol-

arship “to take this House through what, at times, have been very troubled waters.”

Carl Greenidge, Khemraj Ramjattan and Sidney Allicock were all sworn in as Vice Presidents, while each of the other 29 Members of Parliament were also administered the Oath of Office.

VENEZUELAN AMBASSADOR Among those represented in the Chambers to witness the swearing-in of the APNU+AFC Government MPs were members of the Diplomatic Corps, Private Sector, Labour, the Religious Community and a range of civil society Turn to page 9 ►

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Obama orders deployment of up to 450 more U.S. troops to Iraq

(Reuters) PRESIDENT Barack Obama on Wednesday ordered the deployment of up to 450 more U.S. troops and the establishment of a new training base in Iraq’s Anbar province to help rebuild fragile Iraqi forces in preparation for a battle to retake territory lost to Islamic State.

The plan to expand the 3,100-strong U.S. contingent of trainers and advisers in Iraq marks an adjustment in strategy for Obama, who has faced mounting pressure to do more to blunt the momentum of Islamic State insurgents.

But with Obama sticking to his refusal to send troops into combat or to the front lines, it is unlikely to silence critics who say the limited U.S. military role in the conflict is not enough to turn the tide of battle.

U.S. officials hope that a strengthened American presence on the ground in Anbar will help the Iraqi military devise and carry out a counter-attack to retake the provincial capital Ramadi, which insurgents seized last month in an onslaught that further exposed the shortcomings of the Iraqi army.

A major challenge for the U.S. troops, who will set up a training hub about 15 miles (25 km) from the Ramadi combat zone, will be outreach to Sunni tribal fighters, many of whom do not trust the Shi’ite-led government in Baghdad. U.S. officials want to integrate them into the Iraqi army and reduce its reliance on Shi’ite militias in the fight against Islamic State.

Obama decided on the new troop deployment in Iraq’s Sunni heartland in response to a request from Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, the White House said. The two leaders met while attending the G7 summit in Germany earlier this week.

Iraqi soldiers train with members of the U.S. Army 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, at Camp Taji, Iraq, in this U.S. Army photo released June 2, 2015. Reuters/U.S. Army/ Sgt. Cody Quinn/Handout

“To improve the capabilities and effectiveness of partners on the ground, the president authorised the deployment of up to 450 additional U.S. military personnel to train, advise, and assist Iraqi Security Forces at Taqaddum military base in eastern Anbar province,” the White House said in a statement.

Obama also ordered “the expedited delivery of essential equipment and materiel” to Iraqi forces, including Kurdish peshmerga troops and Sunni fighters operating under Iraqi command, the White House said.

It made the announcement two days after Obama said the United States did not yet have a complete strategy for training Iraqi security forces to regain land lost to Islamic State fighters, who have seized a third of Iraq over the past year in a campaign marked by mass killings and beheadings.

The fall of Ramadi last month drew harsh U.S. criticism of the Iraqi military’s weak performance and Washington has begun to speed up supplies of weapons to the government forces and examine ways to improve the training programme.

At least 43 killed in Yemen clashes as parties prepare for talks (Reuters) AT least 43 people were killed in heavy fight-

ing in Yemen overnight and on Wednesday between supporters of exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi and the country’s dominant Houthi group, residents, tribal and medical sources said.

The clashes erupted ahead of U.N.-sponsored talks in Geneva next week aimed at ending a conflict that has drawn in Saudi Arabia and some of its allies on one side and the Iranian-backed Houthis and former president Ali Abdullah Saleh on the other.

Residents and fighters said fighters opposed to the Houthis advanced from a district of Aden known as ‘workers’ island’ toward the port city’s Houthi-held international airport. They said five local fighters and 11 Houthis had died in clashes.

ADVERTISING Eight fighters from an anti-Houthi force called the Southern Resistance were also wounded in the clashes, they said.

Residents said warplanes from a Saudi-led coalition flew sorties overnight against Houthi outposts in the Bir Ahmed area north of Aden, killing 12 members of the Zaydi Shi’ite Muslim group.

Saudi-led air strikes on Houthi fighters in the oil-producing Marib province also killed 10 Houthis, tribal sources told Reuters. Separately, in the central city of Taiz, medical sources said five civilians had been killed when they were caught in the middle of fighting between the Houthis and local resistance fighters aligned with Hadi.

Representatives of Hadi’s government are scheduled to begin talks in Geneva with representatives of the Houthi group and Saleh’s General People’s Congress party on Sunday, amid reports of disagreements about the agenda.

Mohammed Abdel-Salam, spokesman for the Houthi group, said late on Tuesday that their representation at the conference was still under discussion and had yet to be finalised.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced by the fighting in Yemen, which escalated sharply after Saudi-led Arab forces waded into the conflict in March to try to shore up Hadi and stop the Houthis advancing on areas held by his supporters.

Cheap, synthetic ‘flakka’ dethroning cocaine on Florida drug scene

(Reuters) FOR decades, South Florida has battled drug traffickers who ship boatloads of cocaine from South America. Now the Rwegion is dealing with a new epidemic - cheap, synthetic drugs that arrive from China through the mail.

As authorities in the Sunshine State battle with the surge of Alpha-PVP, better known as “flakka” or “gravel,” police departments have begun equipping officers with field detection kits, employing sniffer dogs at mail facilities and training patrol units to look for signs of delirium.

The drug’s popularity, however, is only growing. In 2014, the first year it appeared in the state, authorities in Broward County, which includes Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, recorded 190 incidents involving flakka. By early May of this year, the number of incidents involving the drug had already raced past 275.

DATE: 10/06/2015 G

11 05 19 24 04 09 22

10/06/2015

11

09

02

25

17

10/06/2015

6

1

5

10/06/2015

16

13

06 12

14 08

15

5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Howai tackles ‘criminal elements’ (Trinidad Express) THERE is a strong perception that the gambling industry in Trinidad and Tobago has been infiltrated by organised criminal elements, Finance Minister Larry Howai noted yesterday as he piloted the Gambling (Betting and Gaming) Control Bill in the Senate.

The bill requires a special majority.

“This bill will see a robust governance structure being put in place, with strict licensing and enforcement arrangements, in line with public policy objectives and international standards; with stringent measures in place to address the industry’s vulnerability to money laundering and terrorist financing; measures for prevent-

ing criminal and corrupt elements from infiltrating the sector; and mechanisms for protecting the vulnerable, including minors and problem gamblers, and for ensuring that gaming is conducted honestly and fairly,” he said.

The act makes cheating at gambling or betting (in particular, by deception or interference with a gambling machine or device or the process by which gambling is conducted) a criminal offence, for which there is a $1 million fine, Howai said the Government was seeking to maximise its revenue take from the industry, which had the potential to contribute meaningfully and positively to the national economy if regulated effectively, and to create

Sidewalk vending at an ‘unacceptable’ level (Jamaica Gleaner) MAYOR of St Ann’s Bay Desmond Gilmore has said the problem of sidewalk vending in the parish has reached an unacceptable level and the St Ann Parish Council is seeking to regularise the vendors responsible for this.

St Ann’s Bay, the capital town of St Ann, along with Ocho Rios and Brown’s Town, is the area where sidewalk vending is of most concern.

From time to time, municipal police and members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force carry out removal exercises, clearing streets, sidewalks and other areas of vendors who operate illegally. However, the vendors usually return to take up their positions after the clearing exercise is completed.

While there is currently no plan in motion to address the situation, Gilmore says the St Ann Parish Council is seeking a long-term solution by trying to find space to relocate these vendors.

Gilmore acknowledged the importance of allowing people to make a living, but said changes have to be

made.

“We want to have them in a designated area because what is happening now is unacceptable and we cannot allow it to continue,” Gilmore told The Gleaner.

“We want to have a designated vending area outside of the market and we’re looking at each town, but we have not yet found the ideal locations for the vendors.”

Finance Minister Larry Howai

employment and increasing tax revenues.

The minister said av-

erage annual betting in Trinidad and Tobago was estimated at $600 million, most of which is believed to be unreported.

The Betting Levy Board collects between $16-$18 million per annum, he said.

He added the Arima Race Club (ARC) had a turnover of $100 million per annum and Government collected taxes of $10 million, which it reinvested in the club. Howai said ARC hired about 150 persons.

Private members’ clubs employed at least 7,000 persons in Trinidad and Tobago, with some estimates putting the figure as high as 12,000.

He said amusement machines in various bars number at least 10,000, “and we believe it could be as many as 20,000” machines out there that need to be regulated.

“We have put in place a preliminary system to tag and control and manage these particular machines.”

He said there were also about 11 private betting shops, which employed 200 employees.

Howai said the bill would provide for the payment of a levy to the Gaming Control Commission for the creation of two funds—a Rehabilitation

Fund to support initiatives to help gambling addicts and their families, and a Development Fund to assist sports, arts and community development projects.

The minister said there would be an absolute ban on gambling by minors and the employment of minors in gambling establishments.

He said sending of materials advertising or providing information about gambling to a minor, allowing a minor to enter premises for the purpose of gambling or perform any function relating to gambling would be prohibited.

Transport groups criticise govt’s move to prosecute motorists for damage to road furnishings

(Jamaica Gleaner) TRANSPORT lobby groups are criticising as impractical, the government’s intention to prosecute motorists who damage road furnishings.

President of the Route Taxi Association of Jamaica, Sophia Campbell, says the government should revisit the proposal put forward yesterday in the House of Representatives.

Speaking on Power 106’s Cliff Hughes Online yesterday, she said many of Jamaica’s roads have poor or uneven surfaces.

She says given the fact that most public passenger vehicles are driven by employed persons and not actual owners, it would be unfair to prosecute owners.

The transport lobbyist says a way has to be found to ensure that the right persons are held liable for any accident.

According to Campbell, the pronouncement from the Government does not suggest that the policy has been properly thought out.

President of the Route Taxi Association of Jamaica, Sophia Campbell says given the fact that most Public Passenger Vehicles are driven by employed persons and not actual owners, it would be unfair to prosecute owners

6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11 2015

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

11th Parliament provides golden opportunity for new start - and the great debate on Guyana’s future

HIS Excellency President David Arthur Granger has, again, extended an outreached hand to all stakeholders in Guyana to put past differences aside to work together for the good of all the people of this beautiful country of ours.

In his much anticipated address at yesterday’s ceremonial opening of the 11th Parliament of Guyana, the President reiterated his invitation to the Opposition to take up their seats in the National Assembly.

“Let us put the hostility of the hustings behind us…

Let us eschew the rancour of the campaign and the rhetoric of rivalry. Let us look to the future with hope, determined to do only what is best for the Guyanese people now and for generations to come,” the President said.

“Let us reinforce the foundation of our nation by working together for the common good. We are the National Assembly, not a political party rally,” he added in his call for peace and reconciliation and for consensual approaches to development.

“We shall, in pursuit of the common good, build bridges across chasms. We therefore renew our invitation to the People’s Progressive Party to join A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change in this honourable House to serve the people. Thousands of Guyanese, a month ago, believed that they elected us to craft a collaborative approach to confront the challenges facing our country.

“This is the time for collaboration, not confrontation.

This is the place - the halls of the National Assembly, where we will conduct the great debate on Guyana’s future. This is the time for all Guyanese - from the hinterland to the coastland; from the Aruka to Achewib - to come together,” the President posited.

Rapprochement between Government and Opposition so that cordial relations could be established between the leaders of the land is in keeping with the expressed wishes of President Granger, who stressed the need for unity in joint initiatives to move the country forward so as to achieve the optimum possibilities for development in the nation and the upward mobility of the Guyanese people – individually and collectively.

To the members of his Government, he adjured: “Those of us who were elected have work to do. We have a responsibility to represent the people. We have an obligation to speak for them. We have a duty to serve their interests. They have put their trust in us. That is why we are here.”

The Head-of-State promised his commitment to be President of all the people as he explained, “When we last met, I was sitting among you as Leader of the Opposition. I lost my seat! I stand before you today, not merely as Leader of a Party, or of a partnership, or of a coalition, but of the entire nation. I am leader of an Administration that is committed to doing the greatest good for the greatest number of Guyanese.”

Addressing the assemblage at the opening of the 11th Parliament, President Granger also noted, “This Parliament will have the honour of leading this country into its 50th anniversary of Independence celebrations next year. It will have the duty of charting the destiny of this great nation for the next five years until 2020.”

Referring to the prerequisite of social cohesion in nation-building endeavours, the Head-of-State adumbrated: “We are guided by a ‘One Nation’ policy that will bring enormous benefits to Guyana. We envisage the elimination of one-party domination of the Government; the enhancement of local, municipal and parliamentary democracy; the elimination of ethnic insecurity; the expansion of economic enterprise; the enrichment of cultural life and the deepening of national consciousness.”

He stressed, “Our Poverty Reduction Plan will adopt a ‘One Nation’ approach - reducing inequalities, removing obstacles to education, opening opportunities to the disadvantaged and uniting coastland and hinterland. We shall introduce social policies that will harness and develop the creative energies of our people and that will support the holistic development of our women and youth.

Your Government seeks first and foremost to eliminate extreme poverty.

Acknowledging “… the democratically-expressed will of the people of this great country as expressed in the results of the recent General and Regional Elections”, the President re-

Nature matters …but we’re messing it up with our push for development

PRESIDENT of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, His Excellency Mr David Granger, yesterday addressed members and other dignitaries at the opening session of Guyana’s 11th

Parliament.

We feel compelled to mention His Excellency’s remarks on the urgent need for ‘a green economy’ for Guyana. Among the many important points he made

were: the responsible and sensible exploitation of our natural resources, a new energy policy, and a strategy to preserve the integrity of the natural environment.

Nature matters, but we

are messing it up with our push for development. We have to step back, reflect and approach the natural world with respect, stewardship and responsibility, knowing that our very existence depends entirely upon it.

For years, Echo has been making the call for environmental ethics, accountability and responsibility, particularly among those who are engaged in mining and other allied operations, in the extractive sector of our country.

The numerous accidents and incidents which continue

minded the nation: “Your Government has an obligation, over the next five years until 2020, during the legal life of the 11th Parliament, to fulfill the aspirations of our Founding Fathers. We now therefore, reaffirm our determination to continue the task of working towards achieving national unity and towards making Guyana ‘One Nation’.”

President Granger went on to list an ambitions and all-encompassing range of projected developmental and social enhancement initiatives over the next five years, promising in conclusion, that his Government will undertake to ensure equitable access of all Guyanese to all the rights of their constitutional dues.

In an optimistic vein, the Head-of-State said, “Your Government envisages a prosperous Guyana. We shall craft a long-term, national economic strategy that will ensure economic stability and social security, raise the productive potential of the economy and improve the quality of life for all.

“We shall introduce amendments to appropriate laws to reform taxation, including the value-added tax, to give income tax concessions to wage earners and to offer fiscal incentives on an equitable basis to all investors.

Assuring that his Administration is committed to a well-governed Guyana, the Head-of-State, reasserted and reaffirmed the integrity and autonomy of the National Assembly. “We shall ensure that this Assembly is granted administrative autonomy, institutional autonomy, political autonomy and financial autonomy.”

Importantly the President re-affirmed his administration’s governance policy will reflect the Commonwealth (Latimer House) Principles on the Three Branches of Government endorsed by the Commonwealth Heads of Government.

Space does not permit this editorial to expand further on the very statesmanlike speech that His Excellency President David Arthur Granger delivered to the nation, in Parliament, yesterday.

Suffice it to say that he reached out to every level of citizenry and addressed the concerns of all in his concluding remarks, wherein he prayed for “… the unity of the Guyanese people. I pray that this National Assembly will debate, deliberate and determine the matters that will be brought before you without cowardice or malice. I pray that your decisions will result in a good life for all Guyanese.”

to occur in that sector, the unnecessary deaths attributed to poor practices, total disregard for safety and the health of the environment, and the inability of the appropriate agencies to enforce the laws and other things that should help to regulate that sector; the destruction of the environment, the ecology and the negative effects of all of this upon the public health of local communities actively demonstrate the need for the Government to move swiftly to take appropriate measures and to put in place

systems to protect and keep our environment.

The unsustainable mining practices could never improve our economy in the long term (no matter how high the price of gold and diamonds), and would surely affect the future of other generations.

Indeed, his comments and promise about a new energy policy is in keeping with the new global environmental spirit and mood to discover and harness reSee Page 7

7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

My stewardship as Regional Chairman is an open secret LET me from the outset point out that the statements circulating, alleging financial impropriety on my part have no basis in fact.

It is unfortunate the Region has returned to an era where those who disagree find being disagreeable an appropriate conflict resolution tool.

In my three years as APNU-elect Regional Chairman and member of the PNCR, I have been accused of receiving millions of dollars from the PPP and other sources.

I can say to you this much, my people: With very little resources given to me as Campaign Manager, Region 10 had the best showing for the Coalition at the May 11 Elections in votes, turnout and reducing the PPP numbers. The people of Region

10 have stood tall and have been a formidable force against those who threaten our tranquility and sought to trample our rights. Despite our political diversity on regional matters, we have operated as One Region.

An understanding of how the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) functions would reveal the administrative line of authority is the Regional Executive Officer (REO), who is the RDC’s chief financial officer, and administrator of all executive duties.

The Regional Chairman is the political head, and presides over the Council in developing policies, deliberating on the execution of the programmes, and the management of the Region.

The Regional Chairman represents the Region’s in-

terests at the national level, such as the Drainage and Irrigation Board.

During my stewardship, every effort was made to keep the Government honest and accessible to the people. This was done through walkabouts, community meetings, an open-door communication policy, regional media programmes, and having the media present at RDC meetings. The RDC was manned by councillors from the PPP, AFC and APNU. These meetings were robust, and none was spared scrutiny and accountability, including me.

On the Rebuild Our Future Programme (ROFP), this was conceptualised out of the cooperative spirit exhibited during our 2012 struggle, and the need to

keep it alive in furtherance of the Region’s development.

This programme includes the burial of our three martyrs on August 1, 2012, and some support for their families; the Rebuild One Mile Primary School project; establishment of the Linden Martyrs Monument Park; and the establishment of the television station. The ROFP has a Working Committee, and is administered outside of the day-to-day administration of the Region, which is independent of this management, and is with the participation of stakeholders.

The money garnered for this Programme is accounted for by professional accountants, Wilson’s Consulting Service (Linden), deposited at Citizens Bank, and audited

by D. Bahadur & Co. Chartered Accountants (George-

Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean: Reinforcing Convergences S TA RT I N G M o n d a y, Brussels is hosting a new meeting between leaders from Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean, a positive sign of the shared will to bolster bridges and consolidate ties that have profound roots in our past, and significant possibilities for the future.

Currently, the European Union has trade agreements with 26 Latin American and Caribbean countries, which makes it the partner with the biggest set of trade agreements in the Region, followed by the United States, which has free-trade agreements with 11 countries.

Although the European Union continues to be the second destination market (after the United States) for regional exports, since 2010 it has been displaced by China as the second source of its imports.

In parallel, Latin American and Caribbean participation in the bloc’s foreign trade is still very modest, both in goods and services.

In 2013, the Region was the destination for 6.6% of

goods exports from the European Union to the rest of the world, and the origin of just 5.7 % of its imports. What’s more, the Region’s exports to the bloc continue to be concentrated in commodities and derivatives that have low technological content.

The dialogue of policies between the most representative institutions from Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean will address a rich agenda of bi-regional and global matters. This will be an opportunity to underline the importance of cooperation between the European Union and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), marked by the complexity and speed of ongoing technological, economic, social, environmental and cultural changes.

We are confident that this dialogue will spur initiatives oriented towards citizens, designed to foster innovation for sustainable growth, ensure a quality education for all, guarantee safety and combat climate change.

The last decade-and-ahalf shows a significant difference in the growth dynamic between both Regions.

While the European Union grew on average 0.8% annually in the 2003-2014 period, Latin America and the Caribbean did so at an average rate of 3.6%. Additionally, after a contraction of -1.3% in 2009, this Region recovered quickly, and expanded 6.1% in 2010, marking an annual average of 3.4% between 2010 and 2014.

Meanwhile, the European bloc suffered a contraction of -4.5% in 2009, and has shown low growth rates since then, with an average of 0.7% between 2010 and 2014.

In the midst of a change in the external context, characterised by the end of the commodities supercycle, growing volatility and financing costs, and limitations on aggregate domestic demand in several countries, Latin America and the Caribbean shows a significant deceleration. For its part, Europe -- boosted by significant monetary stimulus -- has begun a slow recovery in its growth dynamic.

In this way, both Regions are expected to face a period (of uncertain duration) of slow growth and renewed

pressures to increase their competitiveness. In this scenario, with its similarities and differences, it is urgent and necessary that Latin America and Europe articulate efforts to confront inequality, guarantee universal social rights and ensure the centrality of citizens’ dignity.

These are all aspects upon which a rich exchange of experiences, learned lessons and good practices already exists.

This summit, where 61 countries will be represented (one third of the United Nations Member States and nearly half of the members of the Group of Twenty, G20), will be one of the biggest global forums to be held before the international community approves the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, the results of this bi-regional meeting take on added significance in terms of discussing new ways of organizing our States, economies and societies.

ALICIA BÁRCENA Executive Secretary of ECLAC

town), at the insistence of the Council which was made up of Councillors of all three of the political parties.

There is no need to assassinate my character to justify to Guyana and the people of Region 10 the purported exclusion of my name from the Regional List. I have served the people of this Region with pride, integrity and humility, and in this Information Age, my record is easily verifiable.

I remain humbled and

grateful for the opportunity presented to serve the people.

Though some may think I am extinguishable, Region 10 and those who desire a politics of development and not a politics of destruction and tear down, rest assured you will hear from, and see, Sharma Solomon.

I am Guyanese, and will continue to play a positive role in the development of our people and this dear land.

SHARMA SOLOMON

Nature...

From Page 6

newable sources of energy: The sun, wind and water could be harvested to power our industries, sustain our economy and secure our wider society.

In Guyana, we have an abundant supply of water: ocean, rivers, seas, lakes, streams flowing through almost every region of this beautiful land of ours. Yet, we remain a people solely and worryingly dependent on fossil fuel. The emphasis of our education appears to be misplaced. Instead of training our people in fields of geotechnical engineering, natural sciences, agricultural sciences, and allied technologies, we tend to focus on the social sciences and get involved in telemarketing arrangements.

Not that anything is wrong with the social sciences; they are extremely vital to the health and security of a nation; but in nation building, education and training must be tailored to meet the development needs of the nation. It is known, that our vast resources and wealth is in agriculture, mining of precious minerals, in our forests, and renewable energy. So the President’s words are indeed precious to our ears, and relevant to the new Guyana.

Again, His Excellency’s pronouncements on a strategy to preserve the natural environment are cardinal and, in fact, fundamental to the sustainable development and growth of our economy.

Good environmental governance has to be a main component of such a strate-

gy. This must include strict enforceable legislations with very serious sanctions that would serve as a deterrent.

This of course must be supported by institutions and bodies, with the competencies and capacities to protect our environment.

Then the issue of solid waste remains a sore one, not only in the city, but throughout Guyana. One sanitary landfill site nearly eight miles from the city of Georgetown; no holding area or facility; no continuous environmental and public health education programme and an abundance of non-biodegradable materials all facilitate mini dump sites in every ward of the city. The landfill site is very defective and needs urgent attention.

Efficient collection is a challenge to the city and the indiscipline of some citizens signals the need for greater enforcement of compliance to our litter laws.

Then we have the proposal for the extension of the Airport, the continuous never-ending construction of the roadways and other public infrastructure without the appropriate tests and assessments to determine their impact on the ecology of the environment.

For example, we still do not know the impact of the construction of roads on the East Bank and the East Coast on the ecology and general health of those and contiguous areas. Indeed, it is time for us to collectively work for a green Guyana.

ROYSTON KING Executive Director ECHO

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11 2015

Separation of powers best constitutes reality IT is time Guyana experiences the efficiency and effectiveness of the three branches of Government made up of the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary.

To emphasise that aspiration, an outline of the independence of the United States of America, its achievement of democracy and the just practices of the rule-of-law intrinsically can provide beneficial guidance for developing States to emerge with less tension and dissatisfaction.

Guyana, next year, will be a country of fifty years of independence. During that period, our Guyanese nation has been supported with profound opportunities through interna-

Well done Bagotville/Nismes!

I HAVE been involved in community work for all my adult life, dating back to the 70s. I have been residing at Nismes for almost 25 years, during which period I have tried my utmost to play a meaningful role in the overall upliftment of the villages of Bagotville and Nismes.

There have been many start-ups, but the enthusiasm soon withers away, and the various groups/organisations either die or merely limp along.

This has resulted in very many capable and knowledgeable individuals, like myself, either giving up hope altogether or rallying on, hoping for an elixir of some sort to effectuate a renewal.

That elixir was administered on Monday, May 11, 2015, and the miraculous effects were visibly demonstrated on Sunday, June 7, 2015 with a profound manifestation of love, unity, togetherness, co-operation; genuine old-time village life.

I am referring here to the massive clean-up campaign by the residents of these two villages.

And even though I did not join in from its commencement, I could have felt the immense love, enormous satisfaction and prodigious sense of pride of all involved.

They were working, but to them it was pure, unvarnished, unadulterated joy.

This exercise is slated to be continued on Sunday, June 14, 2015. This outpouring of intense, positive emotions would have been impossible to be evoked prior to May 11, 2015.

I, however, would like to exhort the residents of Bagotville and Nismes to continue to pursue this same spirit of unity, neighbourliness and mutual respect in all other aspects of community development.

It has been said that when you have reached the summit of a mountain, you just do not descend, but you instead look for a more challenging one to conquer.

It is my intention to agitate for a group of about 12 persons to be elected from amongst the current residents who are engaged in the current clean-up exercise to form a sort of a Bagotville/Nismes development committee to look into areas such as, but not limited to:1) Ensuring that the LaGrange/Nismes N.D.C., work for, and with, us and not for LaGrange only.

2) Proper playground for our youths.

3) Engaging the relevant authorities with a view to ascertaining a time-line for the completion of the Bagotville koker; embarking on a holistic drainage programme for Bagotville, so that it can once again become a thriving farming community; significantly improving Nismes Old Road; ensuring that the construction of the recently built wharf at Nismes has not compromised the sea defences and the drainage canals; transforming the Bagotville Community Centre into an edifice that is worthy of, and relevant to the 21st Century; also removing the monstrosities that slumber on the northern section of the entrance.

For 23 years, the villages of Bagotville and Nismes were cuffed, kicked, head-butted, and spat on by the past administration, and we the residents have to organise ourselves so that we may improve ourselves and our communities.

Long live the Coalition!

MICHAEL SCOTLAND

tional relations to develop possessed potentials of intellectual, material, financial and spiritual capacities favourably inherited from British Colonial Rule. Such could have been destroyed, perhaps to non-existence as a country, by impact of neighbouring enmity.

Pertinent to the doctrine enshrined in constitutional provisions for separation of powers, Guyana today can yet rely obligatorily on international gratifications to secure our nationhood [near and far].

Editor, the civil wars that commenced the USA’s emergence to independence were chronicled into legal perspectives in a document crafted as the ‘Stuben Manual’ by the military General of that fighting era, internally and externally, for an independent America.

This manual was popularly known in American history as the ‘Military Bible’, and from it the ‘Articles of Confederation’ were integument for governance in that period of the history of the USA, which was redefined and rewritten as the first American ‘Constitution’.

My allusion to this American scenario is intended to highlight the fact that any country that patterns in part or in full, any aspect of democracy in the USA by constitutional provisions, those nations are apt to benefit from extracts of American history.

Essentially, therefore, the ‘rights’ of the people can be deemed universal to any extent that dictatorships do not trample on those entitlements/empowerments.

To capture that understanding of international rights and responsibilities, a modern-day Ex-American President, an honourable man, Mr Bill Clinton oftentimes introduces his conversations, reminding that the Constitution of America has inscribed the preamble, ‘We The People’ which meaningfully means Americans are separate groups of individuals who must be given ‘equal rights’ and treatment under the Law. A distinguished republican judicial authority on the Supreme Court of America [Black] Justice, Clarence Thomas, as an opinion he wrote in a landmark case which dealt with LGBT legislation, emphasised the requirement that while exceptional accommodation may be given for particular groups of persons

by State Statutes, the fundamental RIGHTS of all persons must be preserved as Americans in accordance with Constitutional Law. Clearly, my dear readers, by just these references, the intent and application of political authority in America unanimously distinguishes the realities of Separation of Powers, namely: the Executive cannot overreach to the Legislature that is not authorised to overlap into the Judiciary.

In such circumstances, Ex-President Donald Ramotar may be considered to have lost the authority to serve an extended term in office due to his executive overreach and denial of the legislature, compounded by manipulation of the judiciary in Guyana; just to cite two aspects: (1) If a Minister is ruled a ‘no confidence’ and thereafter the Government is tasked with defending itself against ‘no confidence’, just do something about it and face it, so that the chips can fall where they may. If it is ducked, it may never be found ever.

(2) Don’t keep the judiciary prolonged with acting appointments, not enough trial officials (Justices and Judges). Only go

to Court when absolutely necessary; uphold judicial rulings, then once and far appeal, if a greater benefit is at stake.

Always pay good money to get and keep backlog of cases up-to-date -- extend Court hours, night court(s) a plus!.

Editor, now for the caution statements: The new Government must recognise that its accomplishment of office is not primarily political work. My candid view is that the Peoples’ victory, in that context, is a culmination of [a] sustained opposition pressure over 23 years, [b] political activism by groups and individuals, [c] media exposure of governmental irregularities along with pointed letter-writing craftiness, [d] the populace latched on to those disclosures and cried ‘foul’, [e] mobilisation through disgust of families and friends, [f] the vote on ‘E’ day in small part to create a victory for APNU+AFC in the General and Regional Elections.

Those contributions altruistically should be appreciated by deserving appointments to some competent officials, suggestively: * Dr. R. Van West Charles, Executive Advisor to H.E on democracy and health advancement strategies; * Dr. D. Hinds, Advisor on international political relations; * Dr. C. Thomas, Executive Chairman of the NIS and all Boards mandates; * Mr. T. Viera, Advisor on industries capitalisation and management; * Major General (rtd) J. Singh, Advisor on communications and environmental management; * Mr. R. Lucas, Advisor on trade, tourism and financial evaluations; * Major General (rtd) M. Atherley, CEO and exclusive administrator for all extractive industries; * Mr. C. Hinds, Consultant of Gov’t national political relations; * Mr. A. Harris, Advisor on media improvement tech. & relations; * Mr. A. Christiani, Consultant of Gov. for Foreign/ national projects inputs coordination; * Mr. R. H.O. Corbin, Exec. Advisor to H.E the President on international development strategies.

Most, if not all, workers should not benefit from ‘twosweet-out-of-one-fat’; others await fair-play.

Most, if not all, such appointments can be ‘at large’ for compensatory roles and regulations to be determined.

Others, including relevant governmental requirements may be directed by His Excellency as in-office or for feasible options.

Editor, conclusively, when authority is effectively streamlined making fair and adequate use of the nation’s own intellectual capital; supplementations of foreign support best achieves viable economic returns and prioritisation. These appointments must be made public!

Government for and by the People speaks to such realities if governance is to be just and all-inclusive with little or no prejudices, preferences and deprivation of the national ‘PIE’ – for some. It is time!

ARNOLD W. CHRISTIANI

Maintaining the drainage system in Georgetown NOW that brilliant efforts have been made to clean up Guyana nationwide by Guyanese citizens, businesses, and organisations, it would be nice if the momentum could be sustained in the best interest of all.

As you are aware, the open drainage system in Georgetown along the Avenues, Streets, etc which have been cleared and running smoothly, efforts should now be made to install man-holetype coverings/pavement slabs which could be easily removed to make regular inspections as necessary. By placing these types of coverings over the open drainage system, this would reduce the risk of the drainage system becoming blocked, and discourage people from throwing rubbish in the drains.

Rubbish that get irresponsibly discarded on top of the sys-

tem can be easily removed by the cleaning teams and the drainage will be free-flowing.

I know that this may involve financial costs, but we have to look at the long term benefits of the system and their implementation can be staggered so sections can be done at different stages until the whole implementation is completed.

Mr Editor, I would be grateful if you could pass this on to the Georgetown City Council or the Office of the Mayor to heighten awareness of this for their consideration and implementation, also as stated above you can share this with your readers to start a national debate.

KENNETH DENNIS

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

President signals greater... bodies.

The diplomats included British High Commissioner to Guyana Greg Quinn and Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr Nicola Giles.

Argentinian Ambassador to Guyana Luis Alberto Martino was also present for the historic occasion, as was the Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana, Reina Arratia Diaz, who will no doubt report to Caracas that the first statement by a Minister of the Government in Guyana’s 11th Parliament called for a definitive ending of that country’s “baseless and shameless claims to Guyana’s sovereign territory.” (Please see related story on page 12) INSPECTION Following the swearing-in of the Government MPs, the blaring siren signalled the arrival of Head of State David Granger.

He immediately proceeded to the Presidential dais where,

Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma making his way to the Parliament Chambers

after receiving a Presidential Salute, he inspected the ceremonial Guard-of-Honour before delivering his charge to the convened Parliament.

The arrival of the Executive President to the Parliament was heralded by the Guyana Police Force Band’s rendition of the National Anthem.

Attired soberly in black with his signature Golden Arrowhead breastpin, Guyana’s Executive President again called on the members of the PPP/C to return to the governance table and take their place as the Opposition.

Head of State Granger,

From page 3

in his address, which was streamed live from Parliament Buildings via the internet, said the APNU+AFC Government envisages a well governed and prosperous Guyana.

In pursuit of this ideal, the President said, “We shall craft a long-term, national economic strategy that will ensure economic stability and social security, raise the productive potential of the economy and improve the quality of life for all.”

INCENTIVES He spoke of amendments to appropriate laws to reform taxation, including VAT, to give income tax concessions to wage earners and to offer fiscal incentives on an equitable basis to all investors.

According to the President, there will be a heavy emphasis on Guyana’s natural resources and he also reminded of the plan to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund.

This fund, he said, will be derived from revenues, “from our forests, mines, waters, lands and other natural resources, to benefit generations to come…your Government will introduce measures which aim at achieving full employment and providing more people with job security.”

He sought to give assurance that “steps will be taken to create jobs, increase production and generate wealth.”

Laying out a concrete legislative agenda for the House and its business, the President firstly underscored the integrity and autonomy of the National Assembly.

He said Government shall ensure “this Assembly is granted administrative autonomy, institutional autonomy, political autonomy and financial autonomy.”

President Granger said while in Opposition, they (APNU+AFC) would have witnessed how “a subservient National Assembly could become a bane rather than a boon to democracy.”

Guyana’s governance structure, he reminded, is grounded in the principles of the Three Branches of Gov-

Government Members of Parliament inside the Parliament Chambers

ernment, which also speak to the need for Parliament to be serviced by a professional staff - independent of the regular public service.

As such, the President said, “We intend to ensure that the 11th Parliament is equipped with its own Budget Office and its own Parliamentary Counsel based right here in the Parliament.”

He spoke too of the APNU Government looking to bring forward legislation to secure strong and lasting constitutional reforms and to guarantee good governance.

LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS Among these, he said, the Government will introduce legislative amendments to bring to reality, the holding of local government elections and the capping of controversial benefits for former presidents.

He spoke too of the liberalisation of the telecommunication sector and the passage of anti-money laundering laws, among a host of other amendments that would seek to provide greater independence to more constitutional offices.

The opening of the 11th Parliament marks a significant opportunity for a new start for Guyana and its people, according to the President, who remarked also that, “The state of the nation requires visionary

leadership.”

In light of the challenges ahead, “We have assembled a Cabinet of men and women who can provide that leadership…They have the expertise, experience and enthusiasm to repair the damage which has been wrought over the past two decades.”

The President reminded too that the APNU+AFC Government acknowledges the democratically-expressed will of the people of, “this great country as expressed in the results of the recent General and Regional Elections.”

Government, he noted, has an obligation, over the next five years until 2020, during the legal life of the 11th Parliament.

SOCIAL COMPACT He reaffirmed many pursuits to be implemented, as had been promised on the campaign trail, including elimination of one-party domination of government.

President Granger said yesterday: “We will wage war against poverty under a social compact characterised by an inclusionary process…

We shall implement measures to install ‘inclusionary democracy’ and social cohesion in every municipality, every neighbourhood, every region and in the National Assembly…We shall empower our womenfolk to enable them to

Social Cohesion Minister Amna Ally speaks in the House yesterday

look forward to working for ‘living wages’ and to cope with the cost of living…We shall fashion a more friendly society in which old folk can enjoy adequate pensions and social protection…We will build a country in which women and girl children can expect to live in safety and to being protected from abuse and violent crime.”

FOREIGN POLICY Addressing the Government’s Foreign Policy agenda, over the life of the 11th Parlia-

Members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Band in action yesterday

ment, the President affirmed firstly, “Your Government will do everything within its power to secure our borders.”

He said the APNU+AFC Government intends to ensure Guyana is playing a leading role in regional affairs, “using our presence on the South American continent and our membership of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organisation of American States (OAS), Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) to re-engage our neighbours and resolve the major regional security and economic challenges.”

According to President Granger, “Your Government will continue to work towards adherence to agreements that respect our territorial integrity.”

He was adamant that, “we insist on the full implementation of agreements that guarantee our sovereignty.”

Following the President’s charge, the House was adjourned until its next sitting on June 25, 2015, when it will reconvene for business.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Greenidge commends Opposition for support in Guyana/Venezuela controversy

By Derwayne Wills VICE-PRESIDENT and Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge commended the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic for their statements in support of Guyana’s sovereignty over the Essequibo Region, which was claimed by Venezuela in an Executive decree made by that country’s President, Nicolas Maduro.

He told reporters before entering the Parliamentary Chambers for the opening of the 11th Parliament that “Venezuela is “clearly taking action that is deleterious to Guyana’s interest.” While recognising the constitutional right of Maduro in Venezuela to issue decrees, Greenidge maintains that the decree was made on illegal terms against international law.

The Foreign Minister maintained that Venezuela’s claims are “spurious.” “The language of the assertions and the suggestion that Guyana has misrepresented the facts is most unfortunate, and I think that type of escalation born of a certain, perhaps, contempt for others, is an unfortunate characteristic of how the dialogue has been conducted,” Greenidge added.

While acknowledging his party’s criticism of the former Donald Ramotar Administration, Greenidge commended that Administration for their work in dealing with the Venezu-

Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge addresses the Parliament yesterday

ela/Guyana controversy.

“We have been very critical of the PPP Government in the past, in a number of things, but in this particular area, we are satisfied that in their recent dealings with Venezuela, they have acted properly,” he added.

“We have been elected by a democratic process, and I am very, very pleased, and I must commend the PPP for unequivocally stat-

ing that they have the national interest at heart, and in our actions, we share a view that both parties have acted properly in Guyana’s national interest.”

In the face of the controversy, President David Granger has expressed confidence in the role of the United Nations Secretary General to arbitrate between Guyana and Venezuela, as Venezuela has once again raised claims to Guyana’s

Essequibo Region and maritime waters off the coast of that region.

Speaking to reporters after his address to the 11th Parliament, President Granger said any negotiations with Venezuela will be done through the Good Offices process of the United Nations.

Following an 1899 Arbitration between the British and Venezuelan Governments, the boundaries of British Guiana, now Guyana, were clearly defined.

Venezuela, through an Executive Decree made by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, has extended its claims to Guyana’s Essequibo Region as well as the maritime waters off the coast of that region, where US Oil Giant ExxonMobil is conducting oil extraction exercises.

President Granger was asked whether his Administration would consider utilising former Foreign Minister under the Ramotar Administration, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett for this country’s negotiations with Venezuela, but the President responded that it is too early to determine whether such a step would be taken.

Meanwhile, UK High Commissioner to Guyana, Gregory Quinn, has reaffirmed the position of his Government that “what Venezuela has claimed… has no grounds in international law.” “That water is Guy-

Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana, Reina Margarita Arratia Diaz, as Guyana’s Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge addresses Parliament on the Venezuela issue

anese water, and should be seen as Guyanese water, and therefore Venezuelan claim on it is completely wrong,” Quinn told this publication in an invited comment.

He further went on to assert that Venezuela’s claim to Essequibo is similarly wrong. Asked whether Venezuela’s decree would affect economic activity in Essequibo and offshore of

that region, Quinn noted the response of ExxonMobil in the media that its agreement to operate in the Stabroek Block of the Atlantic Ocean was with the Government of Guyana.

The UK Envoy is hoping that both parties will come to a diplomatic solution as was done in 1966 when Guyana gained independence from the British.

No Deputy Speaker with Opposition absent - Speaker Scotland

By Derwayne Wills DR. Barton Scotland was yesterday sworn in as Speaker of the National Assembly for the 11th Parliament.

The newly sworn Speaker, however, expressed that while customarily the Deputy Speaker was sworn from the Opposition bench, the absence of the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic will prevent this process.

“I have been advised that the Deputy Speaker is chosen from the Opposition members. In the circumstances of the absence of the Opposition members, the election of Deputy Speaker will not take place at this sitting,” Dr. Scotland told the members in the House.

The PPP/C has given no indication as to whether it will join the 11th Parliament, but Scotland is of the view that

the absence of the political Opposition in the House would not prevent the business of the Assembly from going on; Parliament is scheduled to meet again on June 25.

“There is always a desire to have opinions from all sides of the house,” Dr. Scotland said, when asked whether the Opposition’s absence was a concern. He added that the Standing Orders of the Assembly do not provide for the business of the House to stop in the absence of the Opposition.

Following Parliamentary procedure, the Speaker proceeded to swear in the members of the David Granger Administration and other Members of Parliament from the A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition.

When asked to explain the process for electing a Deputy Speaker, Dr. Scotland said: “usually, the Deputy Speaker is provided from the Opposition benches”; he further said, “in

the absence of the Opposition, I don’t think we should seek a Deputy Speaker.”

Meanwhile UK High Commissioner to Guyana, Gregory Quinn, in an invited comment from this publication, shared the view of the Speaker that the absence of the Opposition does not hinder the business of the Parliament.

“I think the Opposition should take up their seats in Parliament,” Quinn said. The UK envoy further explained that the Opposition has a duty to the more than 200,000 citizens that voted for them.

“It is important for them to take their seats and to be that voice for their supporters and for the people; but if they choose not to, then I don’t see a problem in the Government passing the legislation that it wants to”, he concluded.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Gov’t envisages prosperous Guyana – to craft long-term national economic strategy that will ensure economic stability, social security and improve quality of life for all

By Clifford Stanley REVENUES derived from natural resources including forestry, mining, waters and land use will join revenues expected from petroleum in a Sovereign Wealth Fund for the benefit of generations of Guyanese to come.

President David Granger made this commitment on governance and deployment of revenues from natural resources, during his address to the opening of the 11th Parliament yesterday.

During his 35-minute address to Parliament, he pledged that the Government will exploit Guyana’s abundant assets to achieve their full potential for creation of wealth.

President David Granger addresses the ceremonial opening of Guyana’s 11th Parliament, yesterday (Adrian Narine photo)

He said: “We will work to develop an economy that generates human happiness in ways that are consistent with economic exploitation [of our] natural resources without jeopardising the opportunity of

future generations to satisfy theirs.”

He said that towards this end, the new Government will place the important diamond and gold-mining industries on sound and stable bases.

“This industry has been the country’s largest foreign currency earner for several years.

There should be no doubt that the national economy could be significantly enhanced and the livelihoods of hinterland

Police to regularise several city bus parks

By Leroy Smith THE Police in ‘A’ Division are presently in the process of regularising several mini-bus parks as part of their efforts to bring traffic lawlessness to an end, or significantly alleviate the problem.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle in the presence of ‘A’ Division Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, the divisional traffic officer Ramesh Ashram explained that the department had observed that on Regent and Robb Streets, they were forced to place markings cautioning motorists to desist from diagonal parking since its leads to the obstruction of traffic flow.

He went on to speak about the securing and placing of boulders at the Routes 41, 42, 45,46 and 47 bus parks to bring some degree of normalcy to the manner in which those minibus operators seek to load passengers as the present system is very chaotic.

Special emphasis will be placed on the Mocha bus park, which is also used by Grove buses and short-drop cars. According to the senior police officer, boulders will also be placed in that area to separate the mini-buses from

Inspector Cheryl Layne and Deputy Superintendent Ramesh Ashram

the hire cars and prevent the jumping of queues to get passengers.

Meanwhile, Inspector Cheryl Layne pointed out that the police are also expected to have a more visible presence in and around the Stabroek Market area, especially the bus parks, as numerous complaints continue to be levelled against some operators and the manner in which they conduct their affairs.

According to Inspector Layne, there will be zero tolerance to the approach

adopted by some motorists who believe that they could breach the traffic codes and walk away without action by the police. She called on persons to report to the police, any motorists, be they car or mini-bus drivers who overload buses, play loud music and carry out other acts which are considered a breach of their road service licences.

To m a k e m o v e m e n t around the city a bit easier also, the division is working along with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure to erect

upright road signs and to assist in the placing of road markings in some areas.

Those areas likely to see additional road markings and upright traffic signs include Robb Street, Regent Street, and some other commonly congested areas.

Over the last few years, the Guyana Police Force have been placing much more emphasis on traffic management and control, which to some extent has seen some reduction in the build-up of traffic in some areas.

At present there are arrangements in place to address the traffic issues of bringing traffic from the West Bank and West Coast of Demerara over to Georgetown in the morning, while a similar system is in place to take the traffic back to those areas in the afternoons.

There is also a similar posture adopted on the East Coast of Demerara where between 07:00 hrs and 09:00 hrs in the mornings, motorists are only allowed to travel west along the Railway Embankment to ease the traffic congestion on the main carriageway.

There is however not a system to address the buildup of traffic in the same areas which is usually evident in the afternoons.

residents and miners enriched if the industry is placed on a surer economic footing.”

T h e P re s i d e n t a l s o stressed that his Government envisages a prosperous Guyana. “We shall craft a

long-term, national economic strategy that will ensure economic stability and social security, raise the productive potential of the economy and improve the quality of life for all,” he assured.

Five suspects in custody for murder and attempted murder

By Leroy Smith CURTIS CASTELLO, of First Street, Agricola, East Bank Demerara, is expected to be charged today with the attempted murder of businessman, Nazim Khan.

Castello is the teenager who, along with two other suspects, one of whom is now dead, and another who is on the run, who robbed Khan on Saturday last of a gold chain and ring before shooting him in the hand.

The businessman was at the time hanging out at a bar with friends in Grove, when the men showed up on two separate motorcycles and carried out the daring afternoon robbery. After the businessman was shot, he whipped out his licensed firearm and returned fire at the men, hitting Michael Grant, 18, of Third Street, Agricola. Grant later died at the Diamond Hospital from a gunshot wound to the chest, while Castello was shot to neck and hand, and was hospitalised until yesterday when he was discharged.

The police are of the view that the third bandit is from Agricola, and they have since launched a manhunt for him.

Meanwhile, the police yesterday picked up three suspects for questioning in relation to the murder of businessman Farouk Hamid who operated a store on Regent Street.

According to information reaching the Guyana Chronicle, the police might be looking for other suspects in the murder of Hamid.

Additionally, the suspect in the murder of Dennis Narine, who was shot through a window while in his home, has been arrested.

Police sources confirmed that the suspect, whose name was given as Ravendra Ramdat, 20, of Grove, East Bank Demerara, was arrested in the community of La Grange.

The man was at the time in a taxi circling the area where the reputed wife of the deceased lived.

It was this publication which reported that the woman and the suspect at one time shared a special relationship and when the woman decided to break off the friendship, the man became upset and retaliated by killing the woman’s husband.

He was reportedly spotted in the area earlier on the night of the murder.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Venezuela’s action defies norms, conventions that govern relations between states - says Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

By Gary Eleazar FOR too long Venezuela has held a “baseless” claim over two-thirds of Guyana’s sovereign territory as its own, holding it like the “Sword of Damocles” dangling over Guyanese, a situation that must be brought to an end immediately.

This was the hardline adumbrated by Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister and Vice-President, Carl Greenidge, who yesterday on the first sitting of the 11th Parliament used the occasion to give an update on the recent presidential decree by Venezuelan leader, Nicolas Maduro.

INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT The Foreign Affairs Minister in updating the House, said: “We have been in contact with several members of the international community and have made special approaches to other member states of the

cent Decree, virtually given notice that it intends to continue increasing the pressure on Guyana and to weaken our resistance to its illegal claim.”

The minister said however, “We will not waver in our resistance.”

He told the House, the issuing of a decree is well within President Madu-

existing developmental initiatives.”

He said the Maduro Decree is also intended to impact negatively on other pending and future developmental initiatives in that portion of Guyana’s legitimate maritime space that falls within the area circumscribed by the Decree.

Minister Greenidge said

over the years it has been very kindly disposed towards Guyana and “indeed virtually accuses the Government of Guyana of over reacting.”

According to the Guyana Foreign Affairs Minister, “Let it be clear,” Guyana is reacting to “an act of territorial aggrandisement.”

He said, no reasonable

ESTABLISHED BOUNDARY Addressing members of the National Assembly in the presence of scores of international representatives, including Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana, Reina Diaz, Minister Greenidge emphasised that the Arbitral Award of 1899 has definitively established the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

As such, he contends it is clear that Venezuela, by its actions, is no longer simply contending the 1899 Award to be null and void, but rather the Venezuelan Government has now elevated its dissatisfaction to an assertion of fact.

Greenidge observed that the decree under the hand of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, implies that international norms and good practices are not applicable to that country and consequently, the decree indicates that the Essequibo region as well as the maritime space the region provides as ipso facto Venezuelan territory.

G re e n i d g e t o l d t h e House that it is difficult for a dispassionate observer to determine what has propelled the Government of Venezuela to take “this so patently illegal action – an action that flies in the face of all the norms and conventions that govern relations between states.”

He reminded the House that Guyana has always sought the principled route in response to Venezuela’s persistent and continuing acts of aggression and will continue to do so.

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge speaking during yesterday’s opening sitting of the 11th Parliament of Guyana

Caribbean and of the Commonwealth from whom we have consistently received support in the past to our just cause.”

Other steps, he said, are being taken to ensure that Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are not compromised in any way and, that “our sovereign right to develop this great country free from threats and acts of economic aggression remains untrammelled.”

According to Greenidge, “For 49 years we have lived in the shadow of Venezuela’s illegal claim and attempts to despoil our country…The Sword of Damocles, for the most part unseen, nevertheless hangs over our heads; unless removed, it will be the legacy that will be inherited by our children. It is time to end this cycle.”

He was adamant that a definitive solution has to be found that will put to rest Venezuela’s contention of nullity.

According to Greenidge, “Venezuela has, by its re-

ro’s constitutional right, but what “is not his right is to utilise the sovereign territory of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana to generate maritime territory to meet Venezuela’s illegal ambitions.”

According to Greenidge, that is precisely what the Decree purports to do in relation to Guyana’s Essequibo.

VENEZUELAN NAVY He pointed out too that the Decree also mandates and authorises the Venezuelan Navy to secure the area and clearly to prevent any other state from exploiting, without Venezuela’s consent, the resources of the area, “an area that now includes a significant portion of Guyana’s maritime space.”

According to Greenidge, “This Decree in its baseless and shameless attempt at usurping Guyana’s territory is also intended to deny Guyana its legitimate right to continue the pursuit of

that contrary to the Venezuelan Government’s public statements, the Decree cannot be considered an act of sovereignty where it applies to territory that does not belong to Venezuela.

“It flies in the face of all norms and principles of international law and it negates the very commitments assented to by Venezuela in numerous international and regional fora regarding the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Guyana condemns this Decree in the strongest possible terms,” he asserted.

Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister also used the opportunity to address the House and respond to the Venezuelan Government which he said, is in fact, “claiming that it has done nothing wrong in issuing the Decree.”

He told the House, this information was communicated to him by Ambassador Diaz.

In fact, Greenidge reported to the house that the Venezuelan position is that

observer could have possibly anticipated that Venezuela could ever regard the position where the ExxonMobil Deep Water Champion oil rig is located, as even remotely falling within the areas claimed by Venezuela.

“Clearly, as was revealed at the end of February, we all underestimated Venezuela’s appetite for territory.”

FUTILE ATTEMPTS The Foreign Affairs Minister reported too that efforts at getting Venezuela to do the logical and reasonable thing, namely, sitting down to discuss the issue of maritime delimitation have to date proved futile.

Greenidge also used the opportunity to point out that apart from the diplomatic and related measures of resistance available to Guyana against Venezuela, “there is also a legal instrument assented to by Guyana, the United Kingdom and Venezuela, which provides for the examination of Vene-

zuela’s contention that the Arbitral Award of 1899 is null and void.”

According to Greenidge, the Geneva Agreement of 1966 remains the best hope for keeping the issue between Guyana and Venezuela from going totally out of control.

He said the mandate of the Secretary General of the United Nations under this Agreement is quite clear in that it calls on the Secretary General of the United Nations to choose another of the means as stipulated, “until the controversy has been resolved or until all the means of peaceful settlement there contemplated have been exhausted”.

Minister Greenidge reminded the National Assembly that for more than two decades the UN Good Officer Process, as one of the chosen means of peaceful settlement, has signally failed to resolve the issue and that the recent Maduro Presidential Decree only serves to widen even further the gap between Guyana and Venezuela.

According to the Guyanese Foreign Affairs Minister, “Notwithstanding the fact that an International Boundary Settlement already exists in the form of the Arbitral Award of 1899, a juridical settlement in respect of Venezuela’s contention that this Award is null and void appears to be the best, if not the only way now open to us.”

As such, he said Guyana of course stands ready to continue discussions with Venezuela with respect to its bilateral relations, while we pursue a peaceful settlement within the framework of the Geneva Agreement.

He stressed that under this arrangement there is a defined role for the UN Secretary General.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that Guyana’s submission to the United Nations has been acknowledged and assigned to a subcommittee.

This publication was also told that Government is currently actively seeking to have the United Nations fast track a hearing of its case for determination in light of the recent escalation of threats to Guyana’s territory by neighbouring Venezuela.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

WISMAR POLICE OUTPOST SHOOTING…

GPF responds to Kaieteur News article THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has responded to an article published in the Kaieteur News of June 9, 2015, under the caption “Police criticised for handling of Wismar shooting,” which dealt with the shooting of Police Constable Victor Fausette at the Wisroc Police Outpost on Sunday, June 7, 2015.

In its statement, the GPF said that contrary to the allegation attributed to Constable Victor Fausette’s mother, Marcel Bobb, in the article to the effect that “up to late Monday afternoon, no one from the police administration had visited her son or spoken to her, personally,” the GPF has been in contact with her since the very night of the incident on a continuous basis.

According to Divisional Commander ‘E’ Division, where the injured rank is stationed, Senior Superintendent Calvin Brutus, made telephone contact with Marcel Bobb via her cell phone during the night of the incident in which he apprised her

of the incident and expressed the Force’s concern over the injury to her son.

He also indicated to her that at the time of their conversation, efforts were being made to transport the injured Constable Fausette to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), by an ambulance.

During the morning of Monday, June 8, 2015, Inspector Oswald Pitt of ‘E’ Division visited Police Constable Victor Fausette at the GPHC, at the behest of the divisional commander.

In addition, Police Welfare Officer, Assistant Superintendent Loraine Saul visited the hospital in order to see Constable Fausette, but was unable to do so as he was in the recovery area of the ICU. However, she was informed of his condition by hospital personnel.

Consequently, Assistant Superintendent Loraine Saul returned to the hospital for the lunch-period visit, when she was able to see the injured rank and was informed by another relative that Mar-

cel Bobb would be returning to the hospital for the afternoon visit.

As a result, the welfare officer returned to the hospital during the afternoon where she met with Marcel Bobb. She also expressed the Force’s concern about the incident and assured Marcel Bobb of its readiness to assist in every way possible with the care and welfare of Constable Fausette.

During their conversation, the issue of some urgent medical amenities for use by the injured rank in hospital, as well as some other matters, was discussed and have since been dealt with.

Divisional Commander Senior Superintendent Calvin Brutus also met with Marcel Bobb during his visit to the Hospital to see the injured rank on Tuesday, June 9, 2015.

The GPF has responded very positively in this matter involving Constable Fausette, which is in keeping with its policy of utmost care and concern for the welfare of its members.

Several GRA staff to be re-assigned – to tackle high taxation issues SEVERAL Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) staffers could be reassigned to tackle issues of high taxation, while Commissioner General Khurshid Sattaur’s retention would depend on whether his contract is renewed, since he has already retired.

According to Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, who visited the entity recently, there is the possibility that the agency may have a new commissioner.

Reflecting on his visit to

the Camp Street, Georgetown agency last Friday, the Minister noted that the entity appears to have a lot of staff who could be better utilised.

While he noted that his visit was indeed a small one, the Minister said he already feels there is need for restructuring to ensure the best use of staff.

While the Government Information Agency (GINA) has quoted the Finance Minister as saying there may be some need for tax reform at the administrative levels, the

Minister has indicated that he is worried about the rate in which they remit, and the level of remittances in relation to the tax base.

Minister Jordan indicated that the GRA has seen continuous restructuring over the last three or four years under several initiatives financed by donors as well as treasury funds, causing them to be going on continuous reform basically.

He noted that the agency will continue to function in its current state, but assured that there will be strengthening in some key areas.

Recalcitrant animal owners source of concern to M&CC THE Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has said that a main source of concern to them are the attitudes of some animal owners who continue to allow horses and cows to roam and dung freely on parapets, thoroughfares and open spaces.

This is much to the discomfiture of residents in local communities, M&CC Public Relations Officer, Royston King said in a statement.

The law stipulates that owners of animals must have the appropriate accommodation to keep such animals and to prevent such owners from impinging upon the rights of others in their neighbourhoods.

According to the law, “Every cattle-byre shall, for every cow, heifer, ox or steer or other animal kept therein, contain not less than 40 square superficial feet floor area, and 300 cubic feet capacity of air space, or less than two square feet ventilating space in window, jalousie, lattice or other opening to the external air.

“Every cattle-pen shall, for every cow, heifer, ox, steer or other animal kept therein contain not less than 40 square or superficial feet floor area.

“Every cattle-byre or cat-

tle-pen shall be floored with concrete, tiles, bricks laid in cement, or asphalt, so graded towards the “grip” or channel gutter at the back, that no liquid matter can remain on the floor. The “grip” or channel shall be formed with a proper uniform fall, discharging into the yard drain or sub-main drain of the district.

“The walls, if any, shall be made of impervious material other than wood for a height of four feet from the floor. The walls, if any and drains shall be adequately and regularly flushed with water and properly constructed and water-tight roof.

“Every cattle-byre or cattle-pen shall be provided with a proper receptacle or dung stead for the reception of dung or other refuse. Every such receptacle or dung stead shall be not less than 10 feet distant from the cattle-byre or cattle-pen and shall be maintained to the satisfaction of the inspecting officer. The dung shall be cleaned up as often as may be necessary, and removed from inside the cattle-byre or cattle-pen at least once daily.

“Every cow-keeper shall cause each cattle-byre or cattle-pen to be kept thoroughly clean and disinfected with

lime wash containing 5 percent of crude carbolic acid to the satisfaction of the inspecting officer. Such disinfection shall be done at least once every three months.”

Furthermore, King said the council is putting in place a maintenance plan to secure the integrity of the environment and to prevent all the hard work of citizens from going to waste.

“The M&CC continues to encourage all citizens to get involved in the massive, on-going clean-up campaign in Georgetown. The Council is very pleased that more corporations, community development groups and individuals are participating in activities in different sections of the city,” the statement said.

One of the challenges the council is dealing with is the provision of receptacles in certain areas. Lack of receptacles is encouraging a few citizens to litter the areas that were cleaned.

The corporations and groups that wish to donate bins and other related items can contact the Public Relations section at telephone number 225 2218 or visit the office at the mayoral complex, City Hall compound.

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan greeting staff of the GRA’s Human Resources Division during a recent visit

Police arrest three Den Amstel home invasion suspects THREE robbery suspects were on Tuesday arrested at the Den Amstel Back Dam Area, West Coast Demerara after they were fingered in a brazen home invasion in that community.

According to police sources, the thieves invaded the home while brandishing handguns, but they did not harm the occupants. However, they robbed the family of a camera and cellular phone before making their escape on a bicycle.

Police have since indicated that they have so far found a revolver and ammunition in the possession of one of the suspects.

Reports suggest that the police were summoned by neighbours as the thieves were making their escape, and through a prompt response they were able to

Police apprehend one of the robbery suspects

arrest the men before they left the area.

A large crowd gathe re d a s t h e m e n w e re

being taken into custody, and many applauded the police for ridding their village of the bandits.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

36 APNU+AFC MPs sworn in as 11th Parliament opens – at least a dozen are first timers T H E 11 t h P a r l i a m e n t opened yesterday with the selection of a Speaker of the House, Dr. Barton Scotland followed by the taking of the Oath of Office by 36 members of the new A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition Government as Members of Parliament (MPs).

Speaker Scotland observed that without the presence of the Opposition, the selection of the Deputy Speaker could not be done.

MP Amna Ally was appointed as the Government’s Chief Whip.

The 36 APNU+AFC members in 11th Parliament are: 1. Vice President and Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo 2. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon 3. Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Simona Broomes 4. Minister of Governance, Raphael Trotman 5. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams 6. Finance Minister, Winston Jordan

Prime Minister and Leader of the House, Mr. Moses Nagamootoo takes his oath

First time Member of Parliament, Finance Minister Winston Jordan takes his oath

7. Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan 8. Minister of Tourism, Cathy Hughes 9. Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton 10. Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings 11. Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence 12. Minister of Social Cohesion, Amna Ally

13. Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan 14. Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine 15. Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry 16. Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe 17. Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Keith

Security officer remanded for allegedly discharging loaded firearm A SECURITY officer of Vryheid’s Lust was on Monday remanded to prison for allegedly discharging a loaded firearm at a woman.

Edward Hubert McAlmont appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and denied the allegation, which stated that on Friday, June 5, 2015, he discharged a loaded firearm at Amrita Grant with intent to maim, disable or disfigure her.

It was further alleged that on the same day, the 35-yearold McAlmont at East La Penitence, had a Luger Tech Submachine gun in his possession, when he was not the holder of a firearm licence.

He denied that charge also.

According to the prosecution, on the day in question the police were on patrol in the area when they heard gunshots. As a result, the police proceeded in the direction of the shots and when they arrived at the scene, they were told by the victim that the defendant had fired a gun at her.

When McAlmont saw the police, he attempted to escape, jumping a fence in the process. He was however eventually caught and the firearm was found in a septic tank.

McAlmont’s lawyer, Mr. Adrian Thompson, in his bail application told the court that his client knows nothing about the gun. He contended that the gun was never found

in the defendant’s possession.

The lawyer then detailed to the court a different version of the incident. Thompson told the court that Grant was being assaulted by her boyfriend and his client went to her rescue. The lawyer claimed that McAlmont had no reason to fire a gun at the woman, since he is a man and could have easily beaten her. He asserted that the police have no evidence against his client, noting that the only item linking his client to the allegation is a statement given by the victim.

Bail was refused and the matter was adjourned until Tuesday, June 23, 2015 for statements.

Scott 18. Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma 19. Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder 20. Minister of Business and Investment, Dominic Gaskin 21. Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson 22. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson 23. Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock 24. Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix

25. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge 26. Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Dawn Hastings 27. Charandass Persaud 28. Michael Carrington 29. Richard Allen 30. Audwin Rutherford 31. Jermaine Figueira 32. John Adams 33. Jennifer Wade 34. Haimraj Rajkumar 35. Rajcoomarie Bancroft 36. Valerie Patterson Among these 36 MPs were 12 newcomers to the House. They included

Ministers of Government and Regional MPs who are: 1. Simona Broomes, Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, 2. Winston Jordan, Finance Minister 3. Nicolette Henry, Minister within the Ministry of Education 4. Noel Holder, Minister of Agriculture and 5. Dominic Gaskin, Minister of Business and Investment

The new Regional MPs are: 1. Charandass Persaud 2. Michael Carrington 3. Audwin Rutherford 4. Jermaine Figueira 5. Haimraj Rajkumar 6. Valerie Patterson

Technocrat Ministers There are three such persons: 1. Mr. Sydney Allicock- Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs 2. Mr. Keith Scott - Minister in the Ministry of Communities and 3. Mr. Winston Felix - Minister of Citizenship The APNU+AFC Government got 33 of the 65 seats in the National Assembly and the Opposition PPP/C, 32. The latter was absent from the opening ceremony yesterday.

Golden Grove man refused bail for narcotics charge TWENTY–four–year-old Sherwin Stanford of Lot 101 President’s College Road, Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara, was on Monday refused bail on a narcotics charge by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Stanford pleaded not guilty to the charge, which alleged that on Friday, June 5, 2015, at Arau Landing, he had in his possession 300 grammes of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

Stanford’s lawyer, Jerome Khan told the court that his client is a miner, who has a pending matter before the

court and was placed on bail for that offence; because of this, he was targeted by the police who pinned the charge on him.

Khan explained that his client had no knowledge of the drug, neither was he present in the building when the search was conducted.

Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru told the court that on the day in question, the police acting on information went to the defendant’s home and carried out a search on his presence. During the search, a black bag was found on a bed; the bag was found to contain leaves, seeds and

stems of the illegal plant, cannabis sativa. Consequently, Stanford was arrested and charged.

The prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness and prevalence of the offence, further elaborating that the special reasons raised by the attorney were not sufficiently convincing for bail to be granted. He also cited the variation in defence counsel’s version of the incident.

The miner was remanded to prison and the case was transferred to the Kamarang Magistrates Court for Monday, June 15, 2015.

15

Parliament Square re-opens GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

‌visitors view Parliament opening via two TV screens

By Clifford Stanley PARLIAMENT Square, the recreational site east of the Parliament Building, became a people’s Parliament yesterday with the re-opening of the facility and the placement of two TV screens

in the park which allowed scores of members of the public to get a full unedited view of the formal opening of the 11th Parliament.

The much touted green space ensconced in the historic setting of Parliament Building became a sea of

colours after it was formally opened to the public by Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan.

Located at the head of Brickdam, the oldest street in Georgetown, the beauty of the square itself added to the relaxed ambience for virtual access to the Parlia-

mentary proceedings.

Those who quickly occupied the seats and other accommodation were an orderly and sometimes exuberant group who showed keen interest in the formal pomp and ceremony of the historic event.

Some members were

appreciative of the unique opportunity given to see the proceedings in Parliament live.

Minister Bulkan said that the use of the Parliament Square yesterday and in the future will allow the public virtual access to the hall of political thinking in the country, with all the benefits that will accrue

from such access.

The green space in Parliament Square includes a map of Guyana outlined in the centre, and covered with grass.

The site is fenced and raised to prevent flooding, is wheel chair accessible, has seating accommodation, lighting and a fountain.

Remembering Courtney Crum Ewing at Parliament Square yesterday

Minister Bulkan talks with the media during the opening of Parliament Square

Parliament Square

A section of the gathering at Parliament Square yesterday

11th Par opens fanfare

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11 2015

-- President G consultation, end

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo greets President David Granger on his arrival at Public Building

By Tajeram Mohabir THE 11th Parliament yesterday opened with much fanfare and colour as the new A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For change (APNU+AFC) Government prepared to get down to business in the august body.

But as its Members of Parliament were being sworn-in, the now Opposition, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) chose to boycott the occasion.

The sun was out in all its glory and the crowd outside the Parliament Building stretched from the Parliament Square to the forecourt of the Magistrates’ Court, going all the way to Demico House.

Many took refuge under umbrellas as they shielded themselves from the hot sun while police officers resolutely manned the barricades to ensure smooth flow of traffic and crowd control.

Some in the colourful gathering walked with pho-

tographs of President David Granger and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo in a show of optimism that Guyana is in safe hands.

By 13:00 hrs, the heads of the diplomatic missions here began to arrive at Public Building (commonly referred to as ‘Parliament Building’), as well as senior government functionaries and other officials, including the acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Carl Singh and the acting Chief Justice Ian Chang.

The rather quiet crowd

suddenly came alive, erupting in cheers on the arrival of Georgetown Mayor Hamilton Green. From the welcome he received, it indicates that the Mayor, a former Prime Minister of Guyana, still enjoys much support among city dwellers.

By this time, around 13:30 hrs, the ministers began to arrive, elegantly dressed and looking stately and dignified.

Tourism Minister Cathy Hughes went out to greet the gathering outside the Par-

A section of the gathering behind the barricades outside Public Building

liament Building compound, much to their appreciation, before walking quietly back into the compound and into the Parliament chamber, waving on the way there.

Earlier, Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence also received a warm welcome.

It was her birthday and a gathering at the Parliament Building sang to her the ‘happy birthday’ song.

Meanwhile, in the gathering on Brickdam, there was much chit chat, with many expressing their optimism

that Guyana will be better off with the APNU+AFC at the helm, but their members will have to work together.

During this time, the brilliant sunshine had subsided and the atmosphere was cool.

Then there was the blaring of sirens.

Their faces turned, looking down Brickdam in a sweeping gaze, and police outriders appeared.

It was about 13:45 hrs and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo was making his

Pr Na co Bu

17

rliament s amid e, colour GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Granger urges d to confrontation grand entry to the Parliament forecourt.

The Prime Minister is no stranger to the House, having served as an MP under the PPP/C and the Alliance For Change (AFC).

Looking dapper, dressed in a grey suit, Prime Minister Nagamootoo disembarked his car with a confident smile and waved, as he acknowledged the cheers from the large gathering.

Not long after, the remaining Parliamentarians arrived and took up their seats in the Parliament Chamber.

rime Minister Moses agamootoo in the orridor of Pu blic uilding yesterday

President Granger inspects the Guard of Honour

Then Guard of Honour marched onto the forecourt, neatly attired in green and white and white and black uniforms, to the booming drums. The guards stood at attention, resolute and patient, as they awaited the arrival of their Commander-in-Chief and President, David Granger.

RESOLUTE DEFENCE They had to wait some time, as Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge was

Crowd kept behind police barricades (Photos by Samuel Maughn and Delano Williams)

See Page 18

Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, about to enter the Parliament Chambers

Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang making his way into Public Building yesterday

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11 2015

11th Parliament opens amid...

From Centre making it known to the House, the diplomatic corps and the gathering outside Parliament that Guyana will not cede any of her territory to Venezuela.

Then Prime Minister Nagamootoo went onto the tarmac and took the salute from the guards.

It happened with some fanfare.

After a brief wait, the sirens were heard again and the cheers from the crowd became thunderous. Then,

escorted by police outriders, the President arrived, elegantly dressed in a black suit with the image of the Guyana Flag on the left breast signaling his love for country – Guyana.

He greeted Prime Minister Nagamootoo, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips and other top security officials, before inspecting the Guard of Honour.

The crowd lustily cheered on their leader as he marched in precision to the

beat of the drums during the inspection.

On taking the presidential salute, the President strode briskly to the Parliament Chamber, where he last sat as Leader of the Opposition.

“I seem to have lost my seat,” he said, evoking light laughter, as he urged all to put the hostility of the concluded elections behind them and “look to the future with hope”.

The President also extended a hand to the PPP/C, calling on them to join the National Assem-

Commander-in-Chief of Guyana’s Armed Forces President David Granger greets Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud, in the presence of Army Chief of Staff Brigadier Mark Phillips bly, to serve the people, pointing out that it is time for consultation, not confrontation.

President David Granger on arriving for the opening of the 11th Parliament

Tourism Minister Cathy Hughes being greeted by a supporter at the barricades placed outside Parliament Buildings

Popular as well as controversial television ‘Happy Birthday Minister!’ Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence receives a warm greeting host Chandra Narine Sharma making his way on arrival for the opening of the 11th Parliament, which happens to be on her birthday to the Parliament Buildings

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Three relatives in custody after stabbing death of Mon Repos shopkeeper

By Michel Outridge AN autopsy yesterday performed on the body of Mon Repos shopkeeper, Pooran Lalchand, 59 years, gave the cause of death as perforation of the heart and lungs due to stab wounds, police said.

Three persons remain in police custody as investigations continue following the brutal murder of the elderly shopkeeper at his home on Tuesday.

Sleuths told this publication that the two sons of the deceased and a daughter-in-law have since been questioned and are detained at the Beterverwagting Police Station.

The man, who lived alone at Lot 511 Block 8 Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, was found in the lower flat of his house with stab wounds and an injury to his head.

Investigators said the body bore about six stab wounds believed to be inflicted by a knife just beyond the confectionary shop he operated on the lower flat of his two-storey house.

Relatives of Lalchand were arrested when they showed up at the Beter-

Aries You may be in a difficult position, as a critical part of a pending decision.

Your first reaction may be to throw up your hands and leave the decision to someone else. Making a choice is too tough, so you find that you’d rather not have to make it at all. Unfortunately, it looks like everyone else has the same idea. Deep down, you have an opinion that needs to be heard.

Taurus Your self-esteem should be strong these days, helping you build more confidence in yourself every day. There may be a glitch in the action today, however, as someone with an extreme perspective on things suddenly steps into the picture. Your emotions may suddenly swing from one end of the spectrum to the other. Do your best to stay calm.

Gemini A ray of sunshine is likely to shine on you. Things may have been cloudy lately, making it harder for you to maintain a positive disposition. Today’s news will be uplifting, and you will likely be reminded of all the good times in store for you. Others may feel a bit of stress, but you should be able to see through this and appreciate the benefits of the situation.

Cancer Recent hesitation on your part may have suddenly put you in a bind. It may feel like you’ve reached gridlock and your choices are limited. You can no longer get a solid handle on things. Instead of trying to make a move now, you may have to wait until the dust settles and you can see clearly again. Let the situation release before you add any more friction.

The home of Pooran Lalchand which is the centre of a court dispute verwagting Police Station to report that ‘something’ had happened to him.

The police subsequently went to the residence and found the bloodied body in the house and took the woman and the two men in custody for questioning.

It was reported that Lalchand and his relatives were in court over the property and they had reportedly sold the house with him still residing there and he had moved to the High Court to prevent being

thrown out of his own house.

His wife passed away three years ago.

Police in a press release said at about 10:30 hrs on June 9, 2015, the body of Pooran Lalchand, 59, of Mon Repos, ECD, was found in his house with several suspected stab wounds.

Police said there were no signs of forced entry into the building and whoever committed the homicide was allowed into the place and was known to the victim.

Leo There are powerful forces operating now. Whether you realise it or not, you have tremendous control over the direction of these energies. Take control of the situation instead of letting someone else do it for you. You will find that other people are more malleable than usual, making them quite willing to move forward in whatever direction you point them.

Virgo If conflict arises in your world, you must keep in mind that there is no one else to blame except you. Keeping your sights set on one goal is useful as you concentrate all your energy toward that one thing. At the same time, you may be losing perspective on what’s going on around you. Make sure you continue to be a team player by keeping an eye out for the people in the wings.

Libra Life may seem like a great train ride. You have your own little compartment that you’re striving to keep comfortable and neat. The company you keep is important, as is your proximity to the food car. Be careful that you don’t get so wrapped up in your own little world that you neglect to pay heed to where the train is headed.

Scorpio You need to learn an important lesson in follow-through. As you strive for perfection, you may get the feeling that nothing is ever fully completed. Try not to be so hard on yourself. The work you’ve finished so far is more than likely much better than what most people could ever accomplish. Put the final touches on whatever you’re doing and move on.

Sagittarius Be careful about being driven so strongly that you fail to take into consideration the changing environment. Things have probably changed quite a bit since you first set out on this mission. You may have packed for sunshine and suddenly it looks like rain. Put away your sunglasses and take out your umbrella. It’s important that you adapt to unexpected change.

Capricorn You may be hit with some extreme circumstances that cause you to feel uneasy about continuing along your path. Use this jolt as a reminder that nothing is set in stone. An element of the unexpected can always creep up on you. Deep down, you probably had a feeling that this difficult situation was bound to happen eventually.

Aquarius You may feel like you’re on a road to adventure and excited about the frontiers you’re encountering. Unfortunately, it seems that not everyone is as excited about this path as you are. Blows to your ego are apt to hit hard, but try not to let this deter you. This is more than likely a result of other people’s jealousy of your incredible strength and bravery.

Pisces There’s a tremendously sensitive side to your personality that’s tender and extremely vulnerable. Be careful about putting too much of yourself out there now. By opening yourself up so much, you’re inviting in trouble.

Others might not be that aware of how sensitive you are. Those with strong, boisterous spirits are likely to be abrasive, so protect your emotions.

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11 2015

Cop arraigned on illegal possession Man accused of obtaining money by false pretence of firearm, ammo charges

A POLICE officer was yesterday arraigned before Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry to answer two charges of illegal firearm and ammunition possession.

Orin Sergeant, Police Constable 20780, who is stationed at the East La Penitence Police Station pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Particulars of the first charge alleged that on Friday, June 5, 2015 at Mahaica he had 37 rounds of 7.32x3 ammunition in his possession, when he was not the holder of a firearm licence.

It was further alleged that on the day in question at the same location, he had an AK-47 rifle in his possession without being the holder of a firearm licence.

Police Prosecutor, Corporal Bharat Mangru stated that the defendant had been under surveillance by his co-workers for some time.

Mangru added that on the afore-mentioned date a road block was set up at Mahaica which resulted in a motor car being stopped. The defendant and the other occupants were asked to exit the vehicle with their belongings and they

Meeting with Chinese Telesha Ramnarine

GEORGETOWN Mayor, Hamilton Green will be meeting with all Chinese doing business in the city tomorrow (Friday) to explain what the council is attempting to do to make Georgetown a better place and their role in this effort.

Over the last few years, there has been an upsurge of businesses owned by Chinese nationals in the Capital.

Many are renting spaces and doing a variety of businesses in the main commercial centres.

The meeting with the Mayor follows on the heels of a stakeholders’ meeting the Mayor had with representatives of corporations, businesses, Government and other agencies, community development groups and others, last June 5.

Furthermore, a series of meetings have been slated for later this month in all 63 wards in Georgetown.

The council is anticipating full participation from those Chinese operating in the city.

complied.

Mangru said that a search was carried out on the defendant’s bag and the articles mentioned in the charge were found. As a result, investigations were carried out and the charges were instituted. It was also noted that the firearm is not the property of the GPF. Sergeant, who has been a serving member of the Guyana Police Force, (GPF) for over seven years, was remanded to prison until Tuesday, June 16, 2015, when he will appear at the Mahaica Magistrates’ Court.

--pretended he could obtain firearm licences

A FORTY-four-year-old Kuru Kuru man was granted $150,000 bail by Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, on two counts of obtaining money by false pretence.

It is alleged that Quinton Green from 1-31 May, 2015 at Georgetown, with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of $300,000 from Clive Dey with intent to obtain a firearm

licence, knowing same to be false. The Kuru Kuru resident was not required to plead to the indictable charge.

It is further alleged that Green also obtained $50,000 from Ramlall Sanchari on Monday, May 25, 2015 with intent to obtain a firearm licence, knowing same to be false. Green pleaded not guilty to this charge.

The prosecutor, police of-

ficer, Bharat Mangru did not object to bail, but requested that the defendant lodge his passport and report to the Brickdam Police Station.

Green was placed on $100,000 bail for the indictable charge and $50,000 on the second charge and will make his next court appearance before City Magistrate, Annett Singh on Wednesday, July 1, 2015.

Son jailed after taking rap for ganja

A SIXTY-nine-year-old woman and her 40-year-old son were yesterday brought before Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry to answer drug trafficking charges.

Mineliva Devonshire and Telbert Devonshire were both charged on Tuesday with having 115 grammes of marijuana at their Lot 13 Hibiscus Housing Scheme, Blankenburg, West Coast Demerara home for the purpose of trafficking.

Mineliva pleaded not guilty to the charge and her son also denied the charge against him.

However, Telbert was slapped with a second charge but he pleaded guilty. Particulars of that offence stated that on the same day at Hibiscus Housing Scheme, Blankenburg, he had in his possession 524

…charges withdrawn against mother

Mineliva Devonshire, left and Telbert Devonshire right grammes of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.

Prosecutor Bharat Mangru stated that both mother and son occupied the same home. On the day in question at 15:30 hrs ranks from the narcotics branch, acting on information, went to the home of both defendants.

Upon seeing the police the number one defendant, Telbert, jumped out a window and ran to the back of the yard and made his way over a fence.

He was seen throwing a black plastic bag over the fence and ranks gave chase and apprehend him on a dam next to a trench, where a quantity of the illegal drug was found.

Subsequently, the police went into the house where they saw the number two defendant, Mineliva, with a black plastic bag in her hand trying to stash it in her mattress.

The court heard that Mineliva was found in the same room

from which Telbert had jumped through the window. A further search was conducted and 101 small packets containing the prohibited drugs were found.

The duo were told of the offence and cautioned.

Mangru said that Telbert, under caution, accepted ownership of the drug and admitted that he was the one selling marijuana, not his mother. Meanwhile, Mineliva remained silent and further investigations were carried out before they were charged.

Representing the mother and son was attorney-at-law, Mr. Charles Ramson, Jnr. In mitigation, he told the court that Telbert has no pending matter and did not waste the court’s time.

When asked by the Chief Magistrate if he had anything to say, Telbert responded, “nothing ma’am.”

Consequently, Telbert was sentenced to three years imprisonment, along with a $30,000 fine on each charge, which will run concurrently.

Consequently, the charge against his mother was withdrawn by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Prosecutor Mangru told the court that based on instructions the prosecutor will not be giving any evidence against Mineliva.

Ganja possession draws fine, six months community service for Sophia man A 22-year-old man of Lot 383 Palling Street, Section B, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was yesterday fined $3,000

and ordered to perform six months community service after accepting that he had marijuana in his possession.

Isaiah Marques pleaded guilty to the charge when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

He admitted that on Tuesday at

Sophia, Greater Georgetown, he had in his possession 1.5 grammes of cannabis sativa.

He was ordered to perform community service at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts every Saturday for six months, commencing on Saturday.

21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Banks DIH records increase in third-party revenue MR. Clifford Reis, Chairman and Managing Director of Banks DIH Limited has reported that the group’s third-party revenue for the first six months of the financial year has increased by 7.8 percent.

According to Reis, the group of companies recorded $14.07 billion compared with $13.05 billion, an increase of $1.02 billion recorded for the corresponding period in 2014.

Mr. Reis said the unaudited profits before taxation for the group for the six months ending March 31st, 2015 was $2.55 billion as against $2.31 billion achieved in 2014, an increase of $234 million or 10.1 percent.

The unaudited profits before taxation for Banks DIH Limited was $1.86 billion compared to $1.59 billion, an increase of $274.0 million or 17.0 percent, while the unaudited net profit after taxation was $1.15 billion compared to $1.05 billion achieved in 2014, an increase of

$100.0 million or 9.5 percent.

Mr. Reis reported that Citizens Bank Guyana Inc. achieved unaudited profits after taxation of $459.3 million compared to $500.6 million in 2014.

“The results of the company for the six months were influenced by increase in revenues due to better physical sales turnover and a reduction in other operating expenses,” he reported.

According to Mr. Reis, the company continues to realise the benefit of better efficiencies resulting from modernising its production capabilities, especially in the Brewery, Soft Drink, Water, Rum and Wine and Ice-Cream production facilities.

“These were complemented by the support services upgrade of the power generation, CO2 production, steam generation and water supplies systems,” the Chairman reported.

He said during the first half of the financial year, major capital expenditure was directed towards

Clifford Reis

the acquisition and installation of a new Trisco biscuit oven and other equipment across the company. The new Crème Select Ice-Cream Outlet

on Main Street was completed and opened for business in December last year.

“I would also like to advise you of the completion of the construction of the New Amsterdam Branch of Citizens Bank. The bank was opened for business in November 2014, as part of our ongoing objective of offering state-of-the-art facilities in pursuit of higher level of service to our customers,” he added.

Mr. Reis said in the second half of the year, capital works will be continued with the installation of an In-line blow moulding machine for the water-production facilities, a new filler for the Beer Plant, the acquisition of additional trucks and forklifts and further upgrading of Demico House facilities.

In addition, the company will continue to monitor its production processes to derive better efficiencies, manage its financial resources and control expenses in order to sustain profitability.

Mr. Reis declared: “We will continue our programme of “Refreshing Partnerships” by furthering the engagement with all of our stakeholders including customers, suppliers, employees and shareholders in pursuit of higher stakeholder satisfaction.”

The directors have approved an interim dividend of $0.17 per share unit to all shareholders whose names appear on the register as at May 14, 2015. This will result in a dividend payment of $170.0 million.

The shareholders’ equity was increased to $23.781 billion which value equates to $23.78 per share.

Finally, Mr. Reis thanked fellow directors for their support and guidance and expressed his sincere appreciation to the group’s loyal customers, shareholders, suppliers and employees for their continued confidence reposed in the group during this period.

GCSM welcomes Skype murder Cuba’s removal testimony heard in from terrorism list Woolford murder trial

THE Guyana Cuba Solidarity Movement (GCSM) has lauded the move by the U.S. Government to formally drop Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism.

The U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry signed the final order to rescind Cuba’s State Sponsor of Terrorism designation, effective May 29, 2015.

President of the Guyana Cuba Solidarity Movement (GCSM), Haleem Khan, who hails the move as visionary said after 54 years of isolation, Cuba’s removal from the list takes away one of the largest impediments to normalisation talks between Cuba and the U.S. The talks have been going on since President Obama and Cuban President, Raúl Castro announced in December that the two countries would end their diplomatic isolation.

He explained that while the United States has significant concerns and disagreements with a wide range of Cuba’s policies and actions, these fall outside the criteria relevant to the rescission of a State Sponsor of Terrorism designation.

Underscoring the benefits of Cuba’s omission from the list, Khan said the most imme-

Haleem Khan

diate change could be the use of American-issued credit and debit cards in Cuba.

“The new rules published in January allowed for such transactions for the first time, and American Express and MasterCard have announced that they would allow their cards to be used on the island…

This is going to open the door to more banking, more credit-card processing.”

Cuba’s removal also means it will have more access to global financial markets and loans from international organisations such as the World

Bank.

While the U.S. maintains its economic embargo on Cuba, which can only be changed by an act of Congress, new rules published by the Obama Administration in January allowed some financial openings.

U.S President Obama, a Democrat, has asked the Republican-controlled Congress to lift the decades-old U.S. economic embargo against Cuba. Cuba had cited its designation as a state terrorism sponsor as an obstacle to re-establishing diplomatic relations and upgrading their so-called interests sections in Havana and Washington into fullfledged embassies.

Supporters of Obama’s policy of direct engagement with Cuba hailed the recent move as another step in the long process toward improving the condition of Cubans caught in the political crossfire between Washington and Havana.

Khan emphasised that the Cuban Government and nation are living in peace and harmony. Cuba is a source of inspiration in several areas for the world to see, particularly in medicine and sports.

– daughter saw stepfather kill her mother, jury told

By George Barclay MARCIANNA Conway, testifying in the Woolford murder trial via Skype from the United States on Monday, told Justice Brassington Reynolds and a mixed jury that she saw her stepfather stab her mother in the belly on September 7, 2009.

Latoya Conway Woolford was allegedly killed in Festival City in 2009 by Marcianna Conway’s stepfather, Charles Anthony Woolford, called ‘Tony’.

The prosecution is being conducted

by Miss Mercedes Thompson, associated with Miss Orienthea Schmidt and Mr. Michael Shahood.

Appearing for the defence are Mr. Peter Hugh and Miss Rahamat.

In answer to questions, Conway said that her stepfather and mother used to have problems and would fight and curse at each other.

In answer to a question as to where she was on the day of the murder, she replied,

“I was in the bedroom. My stepfather Tony was outside in the yard. My mother was combing her hair. My smaller brother and sister were in the bedroom. My stepfather, Tony came into the bedroom with a shine brown handle knife in his hand, while my mother was backing him, and he turned her around and push the knife into her belly. “My mother ran towards the window, meanwhile Tony was standing with the knife in his hand without saying a word.”

Earlier in the trial, Talia Rayside, a cousin of the dead woman, testified that she was upstairs that day when the screams of Latoya’s children caused her to rush downstairs to see what had happened.

There she saw her cousin screaming and walking holding her belly. She enquired from her cousin what had happened and she got a reply: “Tony bore me.”

When the trial continued yesterday, Conway was cross-examined by Mr. Hugh. Further hearing in the matter will continue on Friday.

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11 2015

Auditors assess Berbice health sector

By Jeune Bailey Vankeric

FOLLOWING a recent visit to Berbice by Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton, an auditing team is currently examining the state of affairs within the health sector in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

On Monday afternoon, Regional Chairman Mr. David Armogan told reporters that he was appalled at the report that $25M was expended on curtains by the

Regional Health Authority.

“It was reported in the press that the sum of $25 million was spent on the purchasing of blinds in 2014.

Now when I checked …. because I couldn’t understand why you would have to buy blinds costing twenty-five million …and so when I checked with the accounting section of the Regional Accounting Section here, I was given a figure of $306,240, which is less than one million dollars.”

“It was for twenty-two

- Armogan confident nothing untoward occurred

pieces of bamboo blinds,” he explained, when questioned by the media. “ …that amount of money that they claimed was spent on blinds …twenty-five million… is totally an erroneous figure.”

Further, for 2013, $1.3M was expended on curtains, leatherette and plastic covers for mattresses and beds along with paraphernalia for the health system.

While the seemingly exorbitant spending has raised ‘eyebrows’, even as the critics had a field day cyberspace and other media, Armogan expressed confidence that nothing untoward had occurred.

“The Minister has ordered the audit and we appreciate that because we want to ensure that nothing untoward has happened, and that nothing has happened to embarrass ….we are happy that the auditors are here

and they are looking at every dollar that has been spent in the health sector. I do not know if they are looking at this year or last year alone or the previous year.”

Meanwhile, addressing the issuance of contracts to special persons, Armogan, speaking at his office in the Regional Administrative Complex, on Monday, noted that there has also been some elements of accusations in terms of how contracts are awarded.

“I wish to point out very clearly, that the contract for goods and services in the region are awarded through the Regional Tender Board, for a certain amount of money which is under $9M. Anything in excess of $9M is awarded through the Central Tender Board in Georgetown.”

The Chairman added that whenever services are needed, they are put out to be tendered, and he was not aware of any breaches of the procedure.

Police seek public’s help in nude and battered schoolgirl murder probe

By Michel Outridge THE police in ‘C’ Division have encountered a snag in relation to their investigations into the murder of 15-year-old schoolgirl, Alicia Ali, whose nude and battered body was found on the seawall in the vicinity of the University of Guyana (UG) Access Road on March 25, 2015

and they are appealing to members of the public to come forward and volunteer information which may aid in their probe.

A senior member of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) told this publication yesterday that they are seeking the assistance of the general public to solve this crime and bring the perpetrator (s) to

For Thursday June 11, 2015: 13:00hrs For Friday June 12, 2015: 14:00:00hrs For Saturday June 13, 2015: 14:30hrs

justice.

Since the discovery of the body, sleuths have questioned more than 10 persons, including the teen’s mother, stepfather, a previous stepdad, and two boyfriends, among others.

They are, however, hunting for a person of interest for questioning.

On March 25 the body was spotted by passersby and the police were summoned but by then a large crowd had gathered to get a glimpse of the corpse.

Ali resided with her mother at Sixth Street, Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara, on the night before she failed to return home after going to a nearby shop to make a purchase for her mother on the evening of Tuesday, March 24. A search was then launched for her.

Speculation was rife following the discovery of the body after a letter was found in the teen’s room indicating that the schoolgirl probably took her own life, but after the autopsy the police deemed the death a homicide.

The teen’s clothes that she was wearing at the time of her murder and her cell phone are yet to be found. It is believed that she was killed elsewhere and her body stripped and dumped at the seawall location during the wee hours of the morning of Wednesday, March 25, 2015.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

23

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

25

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Simmons optimistic about ...

From page 31

have been a lot of improvements. You’ve got to understand where you’re coming from, you have to climb the ladder step by step and sometimes you’re going to go backward a little but before you get to where you want, so there have been a couple backward steps.

“The Grenada (Test) was a backward step. The way we batted first innings in the last one was (a backward step) but the guys are working hard and we’re trying to move forward so I’ve been happy with what’s been happening off the field.”

Simmons reiterated that the first defeat would not have an adverse effect on the Windies going forward.

“A defeat is a defeat. We beat England in three days too (and) they went back and w o n t h e n e x t Te s t match (against New Zealand) so it is how you take it. The morale in the team has been great and the guys are looking forward to the next Test match.”

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

FIFA shelves bidding for 2026 World Cup SAMARA, Russia (REUTERS) Scandal-plagued FIFA postponed the bidding for the right to host the 2026 World Cup yesterday and embarked on the search to find a replacement for outgoing president Sepp Blatter.

FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke said during an event in Russia that it would be “nonsense” to start the bidding process for the tournament for the time being.

Meanwhile, FIFA said its executive committee would hold an extraordinary meeting in July to discuss “various date options” for the Congress which will elect Blatter’s replacement.

The FBI are investigating bribery and corruption at FIFA, including scrutiny of how football’s governing body awarded World Cup hosting rights to Russia, which won the bidding for 2018, and Qatar, which is due to host the finals in 2022.

South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:30 hrs Lions Emblem 09:05 hrs Maayaat 09:40 hrs Jamming 10:15 hrs Stairway To Heaven 10:50 hrs Cataluga English Racing Tips Worcester 08:40 hrs Stephen Hero 09:10 hrs Fast Exit 09:40 hrs Shady Lane 10:15 hrs Epic Warrior 10:50 hrs Aalim 11:20 hrs Dubai star 11:55 hrs Prince Of Poets 12:25 hrs Shot In The Dark Nottingham 09:00 hrs Rouleau 09:30 hrs Impressive Victory 10:05 hrs Freddie Chopin 10:40 hrs Yeeoow 11:10 hrs Indian Affair 11:45 hrs Bittern 12:15 hrs Warlu Way Newbury 09:20 hrs Papaluigi 09:50 hrs Princessofstars 10:25 hrs Encore L’Amour 11:00 hrs Hector’s Chance 11:30 hrs Sugar Lump 12:05 hrs Christmas Hamper 12:35 hrs Sword Of The Lord Irish Racing Tips Leopardstown 13:00 hrs Minding 13:30 hrs Port Douglas 14:00 hrs Knights Templar 14:30 hrs My Titania 15:00 hrs Pat Harkin 15:30 hrs When In Doubt 16:00 hrs P olar Deux American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 So Noted Race 2 March On Race 3 Bileaps and Bounds Race 4 S’marverlous Race 5 Mish Mosh Race 6 Leroy Jr. Race 7 Dekalb County Race 8 Maura’s Pass Race 9 Um Boom Ba Bay

The extent of the turmoil engulfing FIFA was apparent in an emotional outburst by the usually composed Valcke, who said he was being destroyed by the media in his native France and gave a theatrical defence of his decision to sign off on a $10 million payment at the centre of the U.S. bribery investigation.

Waving his pen in front of journalists, a visibly impatient Valcke asked: “You want me to take this pen and to hit my head and say ‘Hey! I have been stupid; I should have asked many more questions?”

“You have decided that after Blatter I have to be next head to be cut?” Valcke said at a news conference in the Russian city of Samara, one of the 2018 host venues.

Blatter tendered his resignation on June 2, four days after

having been re-elected for a fifth term.

He wants to remain in office until his successor is elected in order to carry out reforms at FIFA. But there have been widespread calls for him to step down at once, given the gravity of the crisis facing the 111-year-old organisation.

His announcement came less than a week after Swiss police staged a dawn raid on a luxury hotel in Zurich and arrested several officials on corruption charges filed by U.S. prosecutors in New York.

On the 2026 World Cup, Valcke said: “Due to the situation, I think it’s nonsense to start any bidding process for the time being. It will be postponed.”

The decision on who will host the 2026 finals was due to be made in Kuala Lumpur in 2017.

KKR owners buy stake in CPL franchise T&T Red Steel THE owners of IPL side Kolkata Knight Riders have bought a stake in Caribbean Premier League franchise Trinidad & Tobago Red Steel. It is the first instance of an IPL franchise investing in an overseas Twenty20 league.

“This is in line with our vision to expand globally.

We are thrilled to become part of the cricketing tradition of Trinidad & Tobago,” Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of Knight Riders, told the Times of India.

“The passion for franchise cricket in the Caribbe-

an is evident with the success of CPL and we hope to bring all the best practices of KKR to the T&T franchise.”

KKR’s announcement coincided with Hero MotoCorp Ltd, an Indian company, being unveiled as the tournament’s title sponsors for 2015. Hero had been presenting sponsors in 2014 for two of the six CPL teams, champions Barbados Tridents and St Lucia Zouks.

Red Chillies Entertainment, the parent company of KKR, has been able to cash in on the mass following of

AS CLEAN-UP campaigns continue to sweep the nation, the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) on Saturday joined in the action, mobilising almost 100 persons to participate in a clean-up action in the city.

Turning out from 06:00hrs the group which included coaches, officials, swimmers and other stakeholders, picked up garbage, cleared drains, and weeded along Regent Road from Light Street to Shiv Chandrapaul Drive.

GASA president Ivan Persaud said that the association wanted to be a part of setting a good example for the young swimmers, who turned out in their numbers to support the initiative. Persaud noted how encouraged he was by the huge turnout, and the enthusiasm displayed by those present as they went about their task.

“Excellent, in one word, this morning was excellent.

We had almost 100 persons from the GASA family out

there, heeding the call. We acted on the call to better our environment. We’re part of the society and we have a role to play as well, so we just wanted to be a part of that. It’s something good for us to instil in the kids,” Persaud said.

The participants included a number of parents of the athletes. They were also heartened by the support that the event received and showed their elation at being a part of such a positive initiative, hoping that the efforts do not go in vain.

“It was very encouraging, and the enthusiasm was there. I just hope systems will be put in place so that this effort could be maintained,” one cheerful parent noted.

One of the coaches present told Chronicle Sport, “It was a great feeling to see everyone coming together.

We forewent training this morning and all came out to do this. It’s good for Guyana.”

two of their co-owners. Khan and Juhi Chawla are popular Hindi film actors and their presence had helped Knight Riders become one of the first IPL franchises to break even.

Indian Diaspora being the dominant ethnicity in Trinidad & Tobago, Red Steel was an appealing choice for the Red Chillies management.

Venky Mysore, chief executive officer of Red Chillies, hoped that the two-time IPL champions Knight Riders’ success would be duplicated in the

CPL. “KKR has been fortunate to be recognised as one of the most professionally managed franchises in IPL,” Mysore said. “That experience has encouraged us to expand globally.

The idea is to replicate our success in the CPL, keeping the growing interest in this (T20) format in mind.”

Caribbean cricketers have emerged as the most sought-after overseas lot in the IPL. Off-spinner Sunil

Narine and all-rounder Andre Russell are key players for Knight Riders.

The CPL was launched in 2013 with six franchises.

Red Steel, led by Dwayne Bravo, could not make it to the final in the first two editions of the tournament.

GASA joins clean-up campaign

Some of the swimmers as they clean up a section of Regent Road on Saturday.

29

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

DDL helping Jaguars ‘win from within’ … to sponsor Jaguars’ return leg against St Vincent

By Stephan Sookram THE Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) through its Pepsi and Gatorade brand has thrown its support behind Guyana’s Senior Men’s National football team, the Golden Jaguars, for the return leg of their FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifiers.

During a press conference yesterday, brand manager of Pepsi and Gatorade, Larry Wills, stated that the company is always willing to sponsor sport.

“DDL has always been supportive of sport in Guyana and football is no dif-

ferent. We have been a part of football for a long time and we’re proud to have played a part in their lasting qualifying bid which saw them make it into the group stages. We believe that it is our responsibility as a corporate citizen to again give them as much support as needed. We know that the Golden Jaguars have it in them to win, to go a far way and we will continue to help them win from within,” he said.

Meanwhile, Assistant General Secretary of the Guyana Football Federation, Deidre Davis, contended that the company is playing a

From left to right: Pepsi and Gatorade Brand manager Larry Wills, GFF Assistant General Secretary Diedre Davis and Director of Marketing and Communications at the GFF Rawle Toney.

major role in the rebuilding of football.

Daivs said, “I think it’s absolutely instrumental what DDL is coming on to do and I know that you said that this is not a first for DDL in the sponsorship of football but we would like to see them more involved, definitely for this upcoming game.”

She also called on more companies to follow suit, noting that the development of the senior national team will not happen overnight.

Kick-off time for the return leg is at 19:00hrs on Sunday, June 14, at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

Late applications not responsible for Citizenship dilemma … Process held up during Elections period

By Stephan Sookram THE Guyana Football Federation says that the citizenship dilemma that caused four key players to be ineligible to represent Guyana at Wednesday’s World Cup Qualifier against St Vincent and the Grenadines was not due to late applications.

This was revealed by director of Marketing and Communications of the Guyana Football Federation, Rawle Toney, on Wednesday. Toney noted

that the election period was a main factor in the problem.

“The public is of the opinion that, ok fine, we know these players had to come and play, why we didn’t apply earlier. That’s not the case. It’s just that everything happened during a period when Guyana was at a standstill preparing for general and regional elections. After elections had been completed we still had to wait for results. You had to wait for the appointment of relevant persons to be put in place to deal with whatever

specific areas needed to be addressed.”

Toney, however, understood the predicament that the Government of Guyana is in and says that the federation as well understands due process.

“What we would like the public to understand is the fact that the administration (Government of Guyana) is relatively new and as such anything that the officials are doing, they would like to ensure that they are following or doing so within the confines of the Laws of

Guyana. They are trying to be thorough.”

Meanwhile, Assistant General Secretary of the Federation, Deidre Davis, also alluded to thoroughness on the part of the government and accepted that these things happen. “I don’t believe that it’s an issue of early application. I think it’s a matter of thoroughness on the government’s part.

We, as a federation, must appreciate that. While for us it’s a bit of a difficult position to be in, we must understand that we must

appreciate their need for thoroughness.”

The Normalisation Committee of the federation is set to meet with the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, in the coming days to iron out the issues ahead of Sunday’s return leg. Members of the GFF are optimistic that those issues will be resolved in a timely manner The 4 players, Neil Danns, Matthew Briggs, Marcel Barrington and Sam Cox, all England-based, had to be replaced at the last min-

ute by Chris Camacho, Pernell Schultz and Kevin Beaton after the issues of citizenship.

Following consultation with Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, and Minister of Citizenship Winston Felix, it was recommended that the matter be looked at by the Attorney General.

The players qualify to represent Guyana through their grandparents; something that is not unique in sport or to Guyana.

Guyanese cars loaded for Trinidad and Tobago

By Stephan Sookram THE Guyanese contenders for the Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) in Trinidad and Tobago were yesterday loaded into containers at the John Fernandes wharf.

The cars, in containers provided by the CMRC’s title sponsor Seaboard Marine, will be shipped later this week ahead of the second leg which will take place in the Twin Island Republic from June 19 to 21.

Speaking after the loading, vice-president of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) Mohammed ‘Shyraz’ Roshandin said that it is a historic moment for the sport as the guys return to Trinidad and Tobago.

Mark Vieira

The vice-president also indicated that the club has recognised the role that the Caribbean Championships have been playing in putting motor sport back on the regional calendar and has lauded the efforts of all involved.

“Trinidad was out of motor racing for about 8-10

years and now because of the Caribbean Championships the government (of Trinidad) has recognised that there is a growth in the sport and wants to have a part in it. So the government gave back the motor racing fans and clubs in Trinidad, Wallerfeild, so they can have a part of the Caribbean Championship.”

Meanwhile Roshandin also heaped praise on the Trinidad and Tobago Automotive Sport Association (TTASA) for the resurfacing of the track following several complaints last year about the quality.

The cars loaded today include the Mitsubishi Evolution of Defending Group 4 champion Kristian Jeffrey, as well as the Mazda Miata of Danny Persaud, who will

… Vieira opts out over ‘ridiculous rules’

compete in Groups 3 and 4.

Also the Group 3 Toyota Levin of Rameez Mohammed and the Toyota Starlets of Kevin Deodass and Afraz Allie were loaded. The Group 2 cars were Ryan Rahaman’s Ford Escort, Kemal Rahaman’s Nissan Sentra and the Honda Civic of Roshandin.

The Mazda Rx-7 of Paul Vieira was loaded but will be representing Trinidad and Tobago.

RULE CHANGE NEEDED Initial selectee Mark Vieira has opted out of the Trinidad leg due to the current setup of rules in Group 4.

Speaking to Chronicle Sport yesterday, Vieira said that he will not compete with the current rules.

“I refuse to drive with the current rules they have in Group 4. The current rules make absolutely no sense whatsoever, it’s ridiculous.”

Vieira was expected to represent Guyana alongside overseas-based Kristian Jeffrey.

The Caribbean Motor Racing Association is the governing body for regional motorsport and devises the rules for the various groups in the Championship.

FRESH ASPHALT Meanwhile, the resur-

facing of the track will be on the mind of every racer, especially the Group 4 division with lap records expected to be shattered.

The current record is held by Frans Verschuur and stands at forty-one point six nine three (41.693) seconds.

Guyanese Kristian Jeffrey, the 2014 Group 4 champion is one driver that pundits are keeping an eye on as he sets a blistering pace at the Jamwest Raceway and also holds the lap record at the Bushy Park Raceway in Barbados.

Wallerfeild seems highly likely to be the next course to be conquered by the Group 4 points leader.

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Hetmyer cops WIPA 2013-14 U-19 Player-of-the-Year … Chetram Singh receives WICB Lifetime award

G U YA N E S E b a t s m a n Shimron Hetmyer was adjudged the West Indies Players Association’s (WIPA) 2013-2014 Under-19 Player-of-the-Year.

This followed an award ceremony and dinner on Tuesday evening at the Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston, Jamaica.

Guyana also won the Regional Under-19 Teamof-the-Year award while former president of the Guyana Cricket Board and West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) director Chetram Singh was honoured with

Shimron Hetmyer

Kanhai named captain as GABF announces CBC team THE Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) yesterday announced the squad of its Senior Men’s National team, set to compete in this year’s Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC), Championships to take place in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

Guyana had finished fifth place at last year’s tournament, but this time around head coach Darcel Harris is aiming to better the performance of the Mark Agard Akeem Kanhai squad.

The team will be led by Akeem ‘The Dream’ Kanhai who will be playing in his third championship as well as Keron McKenzie, Ryan Stephney, and Ryan Gullen while Shelroy Thomas is making a return following his participation last year.

Making their CBC debut is point guards Dave Causeway, Travis Burnett, Jason Squires, Rudy James, Linden’s marksman Chris Williams and overseas-based Gordon James.

Harris will have Marlon Rodrigues as his assistant.

Managers are Troy Greene and Junior Hercules.

The team departs Guyana for the BVI on Saturday, June 13 and will play Antigua & Barbuda in the 2015 Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championships on Monday, June 15. The other teams in Guyana’s group are Bahamas, Bermuda & Suriname.

In preparation for the Championships, Guyana hosted Bermuda in an Invitational Series in March and made a clean sweep of the three-game series.

Guyana then travelled to Suriname last month, where they competed against the Dutch and lost the series 2-1.

At the 2014 CBC Championships, Guyana only finished ahead of Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Meanwhile, according to the GABF, training sessions continue at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall twice daily at 08:00hrs and 20:00hos, with the final practice session on Friday, June 12.

the WICB Lifetime Achievement Award.

Sulieman Benn of Barbados copped the Player-of-theYear award while countryman Dwayne Smith picked up the Regional Limited Overs Player-of-the-Year award and Kraigg Brathwaite was named Test player-of-theYear. Barbados also picked up the regional Four-day Team-of-the-Year award.

The Combined Campuses and Colleges’ (CCC) Shacaya Thomas was chosen as the Regional Four-day Player-of-the-Year while the WIPA Outstanding Performer in the Community award was handed to Ronnie Goddard.

The Regional Twenty20 Player-of-the-Year was Lendl Simmons of Trinidad & Tobago while countryman and Test captain Denesh Ramdin was awarded the One-Day International Player-of-theYear. Samuel Badree claimed the Twenty20 International Player-of-the-Year.

J a m a i c a ’s J e r m a i n e Blackwood picked up the

Chetram Singh

Emerging Player-of-the-Year accolade, while the Women’s Player-of-the-Year was given to Stafanie Taylor and former Jamaica wicketkeeper/batsman Renford Pinnock was handed the WIPA Lifetime Achievement Award.

Special awards were a l s o p re s e n t e d t o t h e seven current West Indies cricketing knights: Sir Garfield Sobers, Sir Everton Weekes, Sir Vivian Richards, Sir Wesley Hall, Sir Andy Roberts, Sir Richie Richardson and Sir Curtly Ambrose. (Stephan Sookram)

National junior male hockey squad trimmed

THE Guyana Hockey Board has reduced its male national junior squad to 20 players as preparations intensify for the team’s participation in the Players Tournament, scheduled for Trinidad & Tobago, August 1-8.

The final team will be selected at the beginning of July to take part in the tournament which is expected to attract teams from Pakistan and Mexico as well as the Caribbean.

This cycle of the national junior programme started in August of last year with the staging of an Under-19 development camp. A total of 37 players were then selected to form the national squad and have been in training since October 2014.

The programme made a successful start to its international duties on the developmental tour of Trinidad last December when they trained on the artificial turf and won three of their four matches against club side Paragon and Trinidad’s national junior squad.

This tour is the second phase of the two-year programme which is preparing the team that will represent Guyana at the Pan American Junior Championships scheduled for Toronto, Canada in May of next year. Apart from international tours, the squad will compete in local tournaments as a unit and individual players will be sent overseas to compete for foreign clubs to gain more exposure and experience.

The 20-man squad includes four newcomers who were not part of last year’s touring team in, Eleomar Silva, Meshach Sargeant, Troy Hodge and Isaiah Hope. The team will also be without the services of outstanding playmaker Jamarj Assanah who has aged out of the programme and the injured Omar Hopkinson, who were both part of last year’s team.

The squad reads: Mark Sargeant, Medroy Scotland, Kareem McKenzie, Keon McKenzie, Daniel Hooper, Shaquille Leung, Meshach Sargeant, Rosario Ramsammy, Eleomar Silva, Aroydy Branford, Andrew Stewart, Leon Bacchus, Stephon Sprosta, Deheron Wilkinson, Hilton Chester, Paramanand Dindial, Shemar Boston, Troy Hodge, Ato Greene and Isaiah Hope.

15th Annual Castrol Father’s Day cycle road race on Sunday NATIONAL cycle coach Hassan Mohamed will run off the 15th edition of the Castrol-sponsored cycle road race on Sunday in the West Demerara area.

The event, which was won last year by Raynauth Jeffrey in a time of one hour 55 minutes 17 seconds, will see a new champion crowned this year as the defending champion is off his saddle due to an injury he sustained a few weeks ago while training on the East Coast Highway.

The event will wheel off at 08:00hrs from outside the Wales Police Station, West Bank Demerara and the junior and open cyclists will journey to Bushy Park, East Bank Essequibo before turning back to finish near the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

The veterans, mountain bikers as well as the ladies will travel from Wales and

proceed to Uitvlugt before turning back to finish near the Demerara Harbour Bridge also.

Akeem Arthur will be defending the junior title he won last year while Wasim Hosnoo, who won the veterans’ category last year, is a doubtful starter for this year’s event.

Ozia McAully is the defending champion in the mountain bike category and will most likely make a successful defence of that title this year.

Taswanha Doris won the ladies’ title last year and should also make a successful defence of her title.

Monty Parris won the veterans Over-60 title last year, but will not be around this year to defend that title.

All in all, the race is wide open for new faces to occupy the podium in a few of the categories that will be

Raynauth Jeffrey

contested.

With Hamza Eastman, Alanzo Greaves and Geron Williams currently in the United States training and competing there, the way is wide open for younger cyclists to make a name for themselves.

The top six finishers in the Open category will be

rewarded for their efforts as well as the top three finishers in the junior, veteran, mountain bike and ladies categories.

Castrol representative Junior Persaud is expected to witness the race as well as make the presentation of prizes to the respective winners.

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 11, 2015

Simmons optimistic about Windies rebound despite heavy defeat K I N G S TO N , J a m a i c a (CMC) – Head coach Phil Simmons has remained upbeat West Indies can still draw the two-Test series against Australia, and has pleaded for patience with a side still trying to find their way in Test cricket.

West Indies suffered a demoralising nine-wicket defeat inside three days in the opening Test in Dominica last week to fall behind in the series, and now face a difficult challenge in the second Test at Sabina Park starting here today, against an Aussie side brimming with confidence.

Simmons said, however, that the Windies morale

had not been dented by the heavy loss and were anxiously looking forward to the upcoming contest.

“It’s still an open series. We still can draw the series. It is not over yet. It is a two-match series and we’re looking to win the game in order to draw the series,” a bullish Simmons told media on Tuesday.

“We just need to bat properly in the first innings.

The first innings sets up everything. If we bat properly in the first innings and we get to 350-400 we have seen that our bowlers can put people under pressure, and we need to take all of our catches.

“I think that was one of

West Indies coach Phil Simmons

the differences in the last game. Australia didn’t drop a catch … and we dropped a couple of catches at crucial times so those are the two things we need to improve on.”

West Indies produced a timid first-innings perf o r m a n c e a t Wi n d s o r Park to be dismissed for 148 and then allowed Australia recover from 126 for six in reply, to reach 318 all out.

Behind by 170 runs on first innings, West Indies then collapsed from 181 for three to 216 all out, and the Aussies strolled to their victory target of 47.

D e s p i t e t h e p e r f o rmance, Simmons said the

West Indian public needed to stand by the team as they were good signs on the horizon.

“It’s still the West Indies cricket team that is playing and it’s a young team that’s trying to get forward in Test cricket,” Simmons pointed out.

“We keep looking at things and saying we don’t want to come out because we lost the last match but how many people commended us when we won the Test match before that (against England). You have to come out and support your team and that’s the way I see it.”

He continued: “There See page 27

5th Digicel Schools Football Championship launched WITH full support from the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Digicel launched their 5th Annual Schools football Championship at the Beterverwagting (BV) Secondary School Auditorium.

The U-18 age-group tournament will kick off on June 17; featuring 160 schools from across Guyana in a ‘win or go home’ format According to Jacqueline James, Digicel’s Marketing Manager, the schools will be placed in zones, with Georgetown being divided into three sections (East Coast, East Bank Demerara and Georgetown) and then broken down into two divisions; North and South Zone.

James said that with the new format 12 Regional champions will be crowned who will then battle for the

National Championship on August 12 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

The tournament’s most successful school, Christianburg Wismar Secondary (Multi) of Linden, hold the title, winning it three consecutive years after finishing as runners-up in the inaugural championship.

Recently appointed Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, told the gathering of players, teachers and other stakeholders of the game in Guyana, that Digicel’s input into the livelihood of youths in Guyana through sports, has not gone unnoticed.

Jones noted, that the Government wishes to commend Digicel for their exceptional role in bringing the premier Schools football championship to Guyana and that the support will be given to help in its sustainability.

Clinton Urling, Chair-

man of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Normalisation Committee not only used Digicel as an example of how corporate Guyana should be investing into sport, but also said that the tournament has played an important role in helping in the development of the Guyana in Guyana.

Urling said that the Digicel Schools football championship is by far the country’s largest football tournament and it should not be underestimated and should be supported by all.

An animated Chief Executive Officer of Digicel, Kevin Kelly, in his candid address, spoke at length of how much work is put into making the event one that reaches almost every community in Guyana and the importance it plays in grooming the future stars of the game.

... Government, GFF pledge full support

Players, dressed in the new kit which will be used in this year’s tournament, are flanked by the organisers at yesterday’s launch.

Russia 2018 World Cup Qualifier

Wilson, Beresford score as Golden Jags and St Vincent draw GUYANA, playing in their first Russia 2018 World Cup Qualifier, drew 2-2 with St Vincent and the Grenadines at the Arnos Vale Stadium in Kingstown, thanks to goals from Daniel Wilson and Brandon Beresford on either side of play.

Beresford put the Golden Jaguars in the lead in the 26th minute when the young talented midfield player easily placed a well-placed shot past St Vincent custodian Winslow McDowall.

The Jaguars pressed forward, hunting another goal but luck was not on their side as they closed the half holding a 1-0 lead.

However, the home side equalised through their

dapper forward Cornelius Stewart, who is well known to Guyana head coach Jamaal Shabazz, given the fact that the Vincentian had played with Caledonia AIA in the TT Pro-League.

The 25-year-old Stewart had troubled Guyana’s defence several times in the first half and finally got past Akel Clarke in the 51st minute to equalise for St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Both sides were guilty of not capitalising on their chances on goal, but Guyana, in the 75th minute through Wilson got the icebreaker.

Wilson, who plays locally with Alpha United lashed on to ‘through ball’ and the 21-year-old forward calmly patted his effort past an outstretched McDowall.

With victory in sight, the Christopher Nurse-captained

side were cautious in their play but the defence caved in after pressure from the ‘Vincy Heat’ whose second-half substitute Tevin Slater equalised, just before the end of regulation and full time, ending in a draw.

The result means that Guyana, in their return leg on Sunday, June 14 at the Guyana National Stadium, will only need a goalless or 1-1 result to advance to the next round of qualifiers, thanks to their two crucial away goals.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

5th Digicel Schools Football Championship launched

ry sto 1 See ge 3 a p on

... Government, GFF pledge full support

Russia 2018 World Cup Qualifier

Wilson, Beresford score as Golden Jags and St Vincent draw See story on page 31

The ‘Golden Jaguars’ pose prior to kickoff against St Vincent and the Grenadines yesterday.

Castrol Simmons optimistic about Windies rebound Father’s despite heavy defeat Day road See story on page 31

race on Sunday

See story on page 30

FIFA shelves bidding for 2026 World Cup See story on page 28

The West Indies team during their warm-up session.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

Shah Rukh Khan

Raynauth Jeffrey

KKR owners buy stake in CPL franchise T&T Red Steel

See story on page 28

THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 2015