2015 6 16

GUYANA

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No. 104222 TUESDAY JUNE 16, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

Ramkarran: Flexibility required on implementation of 100-day promises

INCLUDING VAT

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President David Granger

– but says Gov’t should deliver on them the earliest

Work commences on US$100,000

Habitat Resource Centre

– geared to providing employment, creative-thinking skills for youth development Page

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Ralph Ramkarran

PPP/C approaching attendance at Parliament at own pace – Rohee 3 Page

– now discussing who will make up Parliamentary team

An artist’s impression of the Habitat Resource Centre for Creative Thinking and Community Innovation

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Security sector to benefit from capacity building through Canadian partnership

Second Vice President and Minister of Public Security Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan and Canadian High Commissioner Dr. Nicole Giles

Communities Ministry 9 begins expediting all house lot applications Page

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Work commences on US$100,000 Habitat Resource Centre -- geared to providing employment, creative-thinking skills for youth development

By Tajeram Mohabir WORK on the Habitat Resource Centre for Creative Thinking and Community Innovation has commenced and should be completed in another six months.

The centre in Linden will be of direct benefit to residents of Region 10. Direct beneficiaries represent roughly 500 persons per year, including 30 youths participating in the Dream Catchers Programme.

Habit for Humanity National Director, Andrew Small told the Guyana Chronicle that work on the building began about two weeks ago, but has been affected by inclement weather.

The Japanese Government in February plugged US$100,000 into the construction of the facility aimed at providing employment, volunteer opportunities and creative-thinking skills for youth development and innovative responses to community challenges and opportunities in Region 10.

Based on population growth trends, population figures to date put the total population of Region 10 at an estimated 60,000.

Region 10 is home to Guyana’s second largest town Linden - referred to as the “gateway” to Guyana’s hinterland regions - and a number of other administrative areas including Kwakwani, Ituni and Coomaka Lands.

The culture is diverse with persons of African, Indian and Indigenous heritage. The region’s main economic base includes the down-sized bauxite industry which represents approximately 60% of the regions Gross Domestic Product and timber harvesting. Continued contraction of the bauxite industry and limitations of timber harvesting combined to produce widespread poverty measured by income, expenditure and social indicators.

It is estimated that four

out of every ten persons between the ages of 16-25 are unemployed; approximately 40% of this cohort; overall unemployment stands at 70%. The Region 10 Interim Management Committee and Linden Municipality are keen on improving economic and social conditions by promoting economic diversification and arresting high incidences of unemployment, illiteracy, depression, crime and HIV/ AIDS through innovative community programmes.

Key challenges to these efforts include limited capital, skills and social incentives to leverage cultural, environmental, human and tourism resources for business potential.

PROGRAMME AREAS Small pointed out that the centre will have 3 programme areas: creative thinking skills curriculum for youth ages 16-35 based on an integrated model of the (a) entrepreneurial and (b) housing development processes; Restore - sale/ donation of low cost housing improvement supplies; and Open-space Community Initiative – lease/short-term rental of available spaces for community initiatives.

The resource centre also offers the Open Space Community Initiative – an initiative that provides recreational and leases classroom space to nurture the development of a vibrant civil society capable of responding innovatively to opportunities, especially poverty housing, under-education, environmental conservation, artistic development, regional tourism, hydroponics and shade house farming, unemployment and HIV/ AIDS. Small explained that under the Creative Thinking Skills Programme, 15 Dream Catchers will be accommodated per term, with a total of two 4-month terms

Habit for Humanity National Director per calendar year.

These skills include Dream Catchers will brainstorming using mind learn creative thinking skills mapping and break and and apply these skills to build technique; mind mappractical everyday/com- ping; lateral thinking; intumunity/personal scenarios, itive/mindful thinking and reframing their perception probortunity. with their communities, the Small said the learning region and self-identity. experience also requires

Andrew Small each Dream Catcher to explore their self-perception and personal development goals using creative-thinking skills.

In addition to these skills, Dream Catchers will learn basic computer building and maintenance, busi-

ness innovation, servant leadership and social skills.

The programme emphasises quality over quantity and seeks to reduce youth unemployment and its negative effects by equipping youth with key creative thinking skills that facilitate their development as social and business entrepreneurs.

The Restore, the Habitat Director said is a non-profit home improvement and donation centre that will provide employment for at least 5-10 persons. The Restore will sell and donate new and gently used building materials, home furniture, home accessories and household appliances for a fraction of the retail price.

The objective of this business is to help families make improvements to their living conditions, provide employment for 5-10 persons and earn income to fund a portion of the Creative Thinking Skills Programme.

Psychiatric report still awaited on accused in sodomizing and killing of boy MURDER accused Ryan Bob Semple, who allegedly sodomised and murdered nine-year-old Shaquan Gittens, made another court appearance yesterday before Magistrate Fabayo Azore.

His appearance yesterday was to allow the state psychiatrist to give his report on Semple’s mental fitness. However, according to the prosecutor, Corporal Bharrat Mangru, the report is not yet ready.

Bob-Semple was ordered by the Chief Magistrate over one month ago to undergo a psychiatric evaluation after his attorney contended that his client was not competent to stand trial.

The court was again told that the accused had received treatment but the report was not ready.

Labourer put on $25,000 bail for assault charge ERROL Gafoor of Lot 108 Carmichael Street, Georgetown was yesterday placed on $25,000 bail by Magistrate Fabayo Azore on an assault charge.

The forty-nine-year-old labourer pleaded not guilty to the charge that said on June 9 at Carmichael Street, Georgetown, he unlawfully assaulted Nicholas Hunt.

The unrepresented man told the court that they both live in the same house and he only threw down a bucket, explaining that he only “lick down the bucket.”

However, the prosecution alleged that on the day in question, Gafoor threw down the bucket and dealt Hunt a lash.

The matter was then transferred before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry for June 19.

The partially decomposed body of Gittens was found in a trench in the South Ruimveldt backlands.

According to reports, Semple saw the little boy walking at night on Cane View Avenue, South Ruimveldt when he grabbed him. He allegedly dragged him to an uninhabited area where he tied the victim’s hands and sodomised him while choking him until he passed out. Subsequently, the accused reportedly dumped Gittens into a trench.

Simple larceny, assault and threatening language charges dismissed after ‘child mother’ declined to testify

THE court yesterday dismissed simple larceny, assault and threatening language charges against a man yesterday after no evidence was offered in the matter.

Construction worker Granato Grenville (no address given), made his appearance before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore to answer the charges laid against him, and he pleaded not guilty to each one.

One of the charges said that on June 11th at Amelia’s Ward, Linden, he stole one Blackberry Torch cellular phone with a charger, to the total value of $45,000, property of Andrea LaFleur.

It is also alleged that on the same day at Lot 56 Central Amelia’s Ward, he unlawfully assaulted LaFleur. In addition, he also made use of threatening language to LaFleur, whereby a breach of the peace may be occasioned.

Grenville was represented by attorney-at-law Mr. Adrian Thompson. He informed the court that the mother of his client’s child did not wish to offer any evidence against him and so the matters were dismissed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Ramkarran: Flexibility required on implementation of 100-day promises

– but says Gov’t should deliver on them the earliest

By Tajeram Mohabir WITH just over a month in power, the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government is already under scrutiny for the implementation of pre-elections promises.

Most of the critical comments on the need for implementation have been made on social media.

Former Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran said while expectations would be high, some flexibility would be expected on the part of the populace.

The APNU+AFC coalition had promised to implement a range of measures in the first 100 days in office.

These include reduction of the Berbice Bridge toll; significant increases for Government workers; significant increases in Old Age Pension; reduction of the President’s Pension and other benefits; establishment of passport and birth certificate licensing offices in Berbice, Essequibo and Linden; return of television station to Linden; waiving of duties on fuel, food,

President David Granger

Ralph Ramkarran

and small mining equipment bought by identifiable miners of small concessions; and the establishment of a Public Procurement Commission.

Ramkarran said realistically speaking, it will be a challenge for the new Government to achieve all it said it will do in the first 100 days in office, but it should strive to achieve as much as it can within that timeframe.

Executive however reminded that the APNU+AFC. during the campaign, spoke about the cancer of corruption, and the need to root it out.

This, he said, is one of the things many Guyanese want to see the new Government do, and at least, in the first 100 days in office, it should take tangible steps in addressing this scourge. Ramkarran had resigned from the PPP/C after he was hauled over the coals for penning an article on corruption.

Apart from aggressively tackling corruption, which in-

CORRUPTION The former People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)

clude revisiting alleged ‘cozy deals’, the former Speaker said the putting of systems in place to steady the rice and sugar industries and the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission should also happen in the first 100 days of the new Administration.

In 2000, the Public Procurement Commission was recommended by the Constitution Reform Commission as a Constitutional Commission, and the amendments to the Constitution were made in 2002.

The objective of the commission was to reduce or prevent corruption in procurement, given the growing allegations.

The Constitution provides that the purpose of the Commission is to monitor procurement and the procedure to ensure that the procurement of goods, services and the execution of works are conducted in a fair, equitable, transparent and cost effective manner.

The functions of the Commission are widespread.

These include monitoring and reviewing all procure-

ment systems; procedures of ministerial, regional and national procurement entities and project execution units; monitor performance with respect to adherence of regulations and efficiency in procuring goods and services and execution or works; investigate complaints; investigate irregularities; initiate investigations among others.

The Commission was never established due to differences between the PPP/C, which was in Government at the time, and the APNU and AFC, which made up the Opposition.

CHALLENGE Ramkarran also pointed out that it will be a challenge for the Government to reduce VAT and offer concessions to small miners and at the same time offer significant increase in salaries to public servants.

This, he said, is the prevailing reality.

President David Granger, at the opening of the 11th Parliament, said the Government will ensure that, as a general rule, people who are paid only the national minimum wage will not be required to pay income tax.

“We shall ensure, also, that there will be no increas-

es in income tax rates, value-added tax or national insurance contributions for this financial year (2015). There will be moderate increases, however, in salaries paid to public servants and pensions paid to seniors,” the President said.

The Administration has already commenced work on the delivery on the 100day promises, and according to Ramkarran, though the coalition might not be able to fulfill all it said it will do within that timeframe, it should strive to fulfill all the promises it has made at the earliest.

The Administration has also indicated that the high expectations should be moderated, but Ramkarran said while this would be justifiable so for now, it is important that the Government keep to what it says it will do.

Meanwhile, there have been criticisms that the new Government lacks gender balance and youth. Ramkarran said most likely the APNU+AFC leadership would address these issues in due time, but nevertheless noted that they should be reminded of striving for gender balance and having a vibrant youth presence.

PPP/C approaching attendance at Parliament at own pace – Rohee

– now discussing who will make up Parliamentary team

By Rebecca Ganesh GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), Clement Rohee declared yesterday that the decision to go to Parliament is still being discussed at the executive committee even as the second sitting of the House is set for June 25.

During a press conference held at the Freedom House party headquarters yesterday, Rohee noted that the PPP/C is approaching

their attendance at Parliament at their own pace and are in the process of discussing who will make up their Parliamentary team.

He reiterated that, “We are approaching this thing at our own pace... these are our seats to which we were granted as a result of the votes we got in the elections.

They will be taken up at the appropriate time when the party considers it necessary to do so.”

Responding to a question

regarding the notion of an in-house fight on whether the party should go to Parliament, the General Secretary brushed this aside. He said that within the party there is democracy, and if a member has a different view that is also acceptable. Rohee, however, noted that the majority of members and supporters agree with them not taking their Opposition seats in the House.

Speaking specifically on a letter by party member

Dr. Vindhya Persaud calling for the party to go to Parliament, Rohee said that while all members are open to express their views, “Mrs. Persaud’s view is not the majority view at this time.”

At another meeting of party candidates the matter will be discussed further, he added.

Rohee said too that the party’s support base, when asked about representing them in Parliament, is also sustaining the party’s move not to attend Parliament.

“The 49.3% of people who voted for us have told us their views. We have gone around the country talking to these people and they have some very strong views, so much so sometimes we have to try to contain them because at times we have extremist views being expressed. So we have to temper these feelings with some degree of soberness and sobriety.” PPP/C General Secretary, Clement Rohee He said, “The 49.3% of people who voted for us have told us their views.

We have gone around the country talking to these people and they have some very strong views, so much

so sometimes we have to try to contain them because at times we have extremist views being expressed. So we have to temper these feelings with some degree of soberness and sobriety.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Sinabung eruption: Thousands flee Indonesia volcano

(BBC News) THOUSANDS of people living close to a volcano in Indonesia have been forced to flee their homes after it began erupting violently.

Mount Sinabung, on the island of Sumatra, became active again in 2010 but there has been more activity since 2 June.

Before 2010, the volcano had been dormant for more than 400 years.

At least 3,000 people living near its slopes have had to leave, including 1,200 on Monday alone.

Scientists worry the volcano could pose more dangers in the coming weeks.

On Monday, there were at least 28 pyroclastic flows - surges of hot ash and gas that rush down the side of the mountain at high speed.

Gede Suantika, an Indonesian government volcanologist, said there were signs a lava dome was growing on Mount Sinabung.

Lava domes are pile-ups of magma near the vent at the top of a volcano, that have been known to collapse and

Vatican ex-envoy Wesolowski faces child sex abuse trial

Mount Sinabung had been dormant for more than 400 years when it erupted in 2010 flow down mountain sides at high speed.

The danger alert for Mount Sinabung was raised to its highest level on 2 June. Thousands more peo(BBC News) UP to 20 people are missing after a deadly ple are likely to have to flood swept through Georgia’s capital Tbilisi, officials evacuate the area in the say, with some zoo animals still on the loose. coming days, a military As a clean-up operation began on Monday, they said commander in Sumatra the death toll rose to 13, including three zoo employees. told AFP. The disaster has left dozens of families homeless At least 14 people died and caused disruption to the city’s main infrastrucwhen pyroclastic flows ture. from Mount Sinabung Heavy rains caused the River Vere - normally little struck villages in Februmore than a stream - to burst its banks and flood the ary last year. capital.

Raging floodwaters rose to the rooftops of enclosures at the zoo, drowning hundreds of animals and sweeping many out of their enclosures.

Some Georgians have been angered over reports that some of the zoo animals were shot dead after escaping from the zoo.

Georgia flood: ‘Up to 20’ missing as Tbilisi cleans up

(BBC News) THE Vatican is to put its former envoy to the Dominican Republic, Jozef Wesolowski, on trial on child sex abuse and child pornography charges.

Pope Francis has also accepted the resignations of a US archbishop and his deputy, accused in Minnesota of having ignored a priest’s child abuse.

Jozef Wesolowski Jozef Wesolowski is acwill go on trial on cused of sexually abusing 11 July children in the Dominican Republic from 2008 to 2013.

He is under house arrest in the Vatican.

The trial is to begin on 11 July.

Wesolowski, 66, is also charged with possession of child pornography, dating from his return to Rome in 2013.

The moves are seen as part of a crackdown by Pope Francis on clerics and employees of the Church who exploit minors.

Last year, the Pope compared the actions of those who commit such crimes to a “satanic mass”.

He also strengthened the Vatican’s laws against child abuse.

Wesolowski, who is originally from Poland, was recalled from the Dominican Republic in 2013, after allegations surfaced accusing him of abusing Dominican boys.

He had spent five years in the Caribbean country as the papal envoy.

He was defrocked in June last year after he was found guilty by a Church tribunal - he is the highest-ranking church official to be defrocked for such abuse.

He will now be tried by a Vatican criminal court.

A Vatican statement said the IT systems used by Wesolowski would be scrutinised. He has been under house arrest in the Vatican since September.

The Vatican said at the time of his arrest that he had not been placed in a police cell because of his poor health.

If found guilty, he could face between six and 10 years in prison.

US RESIGNATIONS The Vatican also accepted the resignations of an archbishop in the United States and his deputy following accusations that their archdiocese covered up the sexual abuse of children.

They are Archbishop John Nienstedt and Auxiliary Bishop Lee Anthony Piche from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.

John Nienstedt said in a statement that his leadership had drawn attention away from the good works of the church but stressed he was leaving “with a clear conscience”.

Their resignation comes after prosecutors charged their archdiocese with “turning a blind eye” to repeated reports of inappropriate behaviour by a priest who was later convicted of molesting two boys.

Neither man was named in the indictment.

Prosecutors accuse the archdiocese of failing to respond to “numerous and repeated reports of troubling conduct”

by Curtis Wehmeyer, a former priest currently serving a five-year prison sentence for molesting two boys.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Mighty Sparrow receives OBE in Queen’s Birthday Honours (BBC News) DR Slinger Francisco, better known as the “Mighty Sparrow”, has been conferred with the Order of the British Empire, as part of the birthday honours list of Queen Elizabeth II. The 79-year-old legendary calypsonian was born in Grenada and spent much of his life in T&T. Citizens from the 15 Commonwealth realms can be nominated for the birthday honours list.

The list consists of knights and dames, appointments to the Order of the British Empire and gallantry awards to servicemen and women, and civilians.

An appointment to the Order of the British Empire recognises prominent national or regional figures making distinguished or notable contributions in their own specific areas of activity. Francisco’s citation is for services to culture.

In this February 2014 photograph, Dr Slinger “Mighty Sparrow” Francisco poses for a photograph while autographing copies of the book Gimme Room To Sing for students from various schools The ranks of the Order of the British Empire are Commander (CBE), Officer (OBE) and Member (MBE). Francisco was made an Officer of the British Empire.

TAKE IT TO THE FBI

(Trinidad Express) IN dismissing allegations by Jack Warner that he was involved in covering up marijuana found at her private residence two years ago, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar yesterday challenged Warner to take his information to the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and local police.

“More lies and distractions which I have placed in the hands of my lawyers, should Mr Warner have any information about any wrong doing he should take it to the police and the FBI,” the Prime Minister told the Express.

Warner submitted a state-

Prime Minister: Kamla Persad-Bissessar ment dated June 6, 2015 to Justice of the Peace Anthony Soulette in which he claimed that on Friday April 12, 2013, former deputy Commissioner of Police Mervyn Richardson

came to the Parliament and informed him (Warner) that a packet containing four ounces of marijuana was found outside a window of Persad-Bissessar’s private Phillipine residence.

Warner, who was National Security Minister at the time, stated that he called Housing Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal who advised him to contact the Prime Minister who was in New York at the time.

Warner claimed when he contacted the Prime Minister, she was surprised and enquired whether she should return home immediately and resign.

He claimed further that he advised Persad-Bissessar to not resign as he and oth-

ers-Richardson, Moonilal as well as former national security adviser Gary Griffith - would cover up the ganja find.

ALLEGATIONS UNTRUE Legal sources close to the Prime Minister said that Warner’s allegations were untrue because Persad-Bissessar was never out of the country when the marijuana was allegedly found at the house.

The Express checked

The UK Guardian posted a full list of 2015 recipients from crown dependencies and Commonwealth honours here. the archives which show that Persad-Bissessar left Trinidad on April 14, 2013, for New York where she was scheduled to address the United Nations on Monday June 15 on “The UN and Global Economic Governance”.

A release from the Office of the Prime Minister was issued to the media giving notice of Persad-Bissessar’s departure.

The Express was told by officials close to the PM that Warner’s allegations were

confusing as they questioned how the Prime Minister could say she should return home and resign when she was in the country.

It was also pointed out that the Prime Minister accepted Warner’s resignation on April 20, 2013 – following a report from Sir David Simmons who headed FIFA’s Ethics Committee which stated Warner was involved in financial impropriety - days after his alleged cover up of the marijuana find.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Editorial T

Guyana

REMEMBERING OUR MARTYRS

ODAY, June 16, marks 67 years since five sugar workers -– Rambarran, Lall a/k Pooran, Lallabagee, Surujbally and Harry -- were killed by British colonial police. The five are revered as the “Enmore Martyrs”.

In 1948, the Enmore Martyrs fought mainly for recognition of their union to better fight for them. It was a long and bitter struggle that ended just under three decades later in recognition of GAWU as the bargaining agent of sugar workers.

It must have come as a betrayal of the Enmore Martyrs that, under the Bharrat Jagdeo Presidency, the Guyana Sugar Corporation issued a threat to de-recognise GAWU. That was in 2010 when both Mr. Donald Ramotar (later to become President) and Dr. Nanda Gopaul, former Minister of Labour, were directors of the sugar corporation.

Today, it must also come as a betrayal of the Enmore Martyrs that the sugar industry is on the brink of bankruptcy after surviving slavery and indentureship, and the many years before and after our Independence as a nation.

The entire Guyanese nation was shocked to learn that the former Government, which portrayed itself as a defender of sugar workers, was leaving office with only one week’s pay in the coffers for sugar workers.

The previous Government must have known that the

sugar industry was brought to a point of closure, but it never made that disclosure before the elections. Not only was it leaving the sugar industry penniless, but it also saddled the industry with enormous debts, running into tens of billions of dollars.

Had the Enmore Martyrs been alive today, tears would have flown from their eyes to know that a factory such as the so-called ‘White Elephant’ in Skeldon was processing less sugar per ton of cane than the antiquated factory in their time, even after $47 billion had been injected into the Skeldon Factory by the Governments of both President Jagdeo and President Ramotar. Thrice also Parliament had to offer “bail out” of sums in excess of $15 billion, yet the industry floundered.

No amount of crocodile tears would today hide the callous betrayal of sugar workers, and the destruction of the dreams of the Enmore Martyrs by the former Government. It must come as a welcome gesture that days after coming into office, the new Coalition Government announced that it was putting a rescue package for the sugar industry in place, and promised that even in challenging times, it will do all it can to save the jobs of the estimated 16,000 workers.

This will be no easy task, but President David Granger has assured, repeatedly, that saving jobs is a priority of his Government. Part of this exercise would require sacking the old politically-appointed directors, and doing a thorough

Whither the ERC? I WRITE to focus the public’s attention on the important role of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) to this country. I do so against the backdrop of a seeming lack of interest on the part of the present Government to prioritise the establishment of the ERC as a matter of foremost national importance.

Editor, to say that I am flabbergasted that the ERC is not on the Government’s list of priorities for its first 100 days in office would be putting it mildly. When in Opposition, the current Government used their Parliamentary majority to pressure the PPP/C Government to activate the necessary constitutional arrangements for the re-establishment of the defunct ERC. When members of the ERC were

finally elected, the former executive President, for some mysterious reason, failed to swear them in.

This Government’s apparent inertia in putting in place the mechanisms to correct the failure of the former President to formalise the selections for the body that were made by the constituencies involved is unexpected. It is also at variance with their mantra, when on the campaign trail, to foster good governance, transparency, and accountability if elected to office.

This country needs the ERC more than it needs the Telecommunication Bill or the Public Procurement Commission Bill. I say this in all sincerity, because as much as these pieces of legislation are welcome, they would be of little use to anyone if the

country implodes through racial strife. I further challenge anyone to argue a contrary view to the opinion that this country is presently like a powder-keg, just waiting to explode from the concentrated heat of racial emotions that have surfaced after the just-concluded elections.

Anecdotal information abounding in the public domain suggests that ethnic considerations, more than any other factor, motivated and dominated citizens’ electoral choices for the just-concluded elections. Just check the figures that came out of each polling station for the two main contesting political parties – PPP/C and APNU+AFC – then check the racial composition of the communities where the polling booths were located, and the nexus is easily es-

tablished.

Interestingly, this wasn’t by happenstance; it is the result of the decades of historical and political conditioning of the masses that goes way back to the days of colonialism; that tempestuous period of our history during which slavery, indentureship, and ‘apaanjhat’ politics were spawned.

The evidence is pellucid that over time, this conditioning has had a debilitating effect on race relations in our beloved country. In general, it has insidiously built up seeming impregnable walls of distrust and seething antagonisms between and amongst the racial groupings in our society, but more disastrously, between Guyanese of African and Indian ancestry.

As far back as I can

investigation into where all the monies poured into the sugar industry have disappeared. We are appalled by the reaction of GAWU leaders that the sacking of the old guard, closely linked to the Opposition PPP, was “disturbing”. GAWU should cry for the workers, not mourn the departure of the “square pegs”.

It is time that sugar workers demand an end to the collusion between the Union bosses and political cronies.

It is time that GAWU restore its image as an independent Union, or face the wrath of sugar workers, who must insist that the sacrifice of the Enmore Martyrs for a Union of their choice was not in vain.

While we remember the Enmore Martyrs, we are also reminded that June 13 marked the 35th Anniversary of the death of Dr. Walter Rodney, who was killed when a bomb detonated in his lap in down-town Georgetown.

Dr. Rodney was a political activist, and whilst efforts have been made to find out who was responsible for his death, we must recognise that his life was dedicated to the struggles of the working people. His death is a loss to their struggle for political democracy, and we salute his memory today.

All Guyanese ought to observe June with sober reflection that the re-birth of hope in Guyana came from struggle and sacrifice. We must salute our heroes, knowing that in their memory, Guyanese are now poised to realise their dream of a better life.

remember, despite our perceived ethnic differences, we, as Guyanese, are not inherently predisposed to hating each other based on ethno-cultural or racial differences. On the contrary, I feel that we only become overly conscious of our differences along racial lines whenever elections are in the air. This phenomenon tells me that the racial problems which bedevil relations between Afro and Indo-Guyanese are rooted in nurture rather than nature.

This reality is further compounded by the fact that our political elite are not by any means shy to overtly mobilise political support along racial lines, spew racist shibboleths, or negatively stereotype other racial groupings in the society in order to capture and ultimately hold on in perpetuity to political office.

A pending court matter of national import prevents me

from further developing this point, so I will move on.

What I wish to add here, however, is that the elections results have proven, even to the most skeptical amongst us, that our country is deeply divided along racial lines. The elections results have also, to a large extent, generated angst amongst segments of the population that did not vote for the elected Government. They genuinely feel that they will be discriminated against, or otherwise denied equal See page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

PPP/C to boycott long-delayed local gov’t elections - unless Surujbally quits GECOM

By Rebecca Ganesh THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) says it will not contest the long-overdue Local Government Elections (LGE) if Dr. Steve Surujbally is still Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

During the weekly press briefing held at the party’s Freedom House headquarters, PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee made it quite clear that the party will not be contesting the Local Government Elections if the Chairman of GECOM remains unchanged. “Not with Mr. Surujbally. We’ve already called for Mr. Surujbally’s resignation. We want Mr. Surjub-

ally’s resignation almost immediately.”

After the May 11 General and Regional Elections where A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition was victorious, the PPP/C has been complaining that Dr. Surujbally and GECOM had facilitated a flawed electoral process, which the party has deemed as ‘rigging’. However, the western missions and other elections observer groups have stood

by GECOM’s vote count, declaring that the elections were free and fair.

Since the declaration of results the PPP/C has mounted several protests, calling for the Chairman’s resignation.

The PPP/C had stated that it no longer has confidence in Dr. Surujbally, who has been Chairman of the elections body for approximately 10 years.

The PPP/C was unseated after 23 years in Government by the APNU+AFC coalition. Local Government Elections were last held in 1994 and during the PPP/C Administration the four key western missions in Guyana – US, European Union, United Kingdom and Canada - had often called for the holding of Local Government Elections, saying that there was no valid justification for further delay, which they said was responsible for a persistent drag on Guyana’s national development.

COMMONWEALTH PHARMACY DAY GREETINGS TODAY, June 16th, as we observe Commonwealth Pharmacy Day, the Guyana Pharmacists’ Association wishes to extend warm greetings to all pharmacists, pharmacy assistants and students throughout our beautiful land, Guyana.

The pharmacist is the most accessible member of the health team. It has been recognised that access to medicines itself does not automatically result in the best state of health. For optimal health outcomes to be achieved, access to medicines must be accompanied with pharmaceutical expertise and this is where the pharmacist is invaluable. As pharmacists, let us not see our roles as mere dispensers of medication, but as front line providers of information. In essence, we are all counsellors on pharmaceuticals, over the counter medications and general health matters.

Since we, as pharmacists, are key information providers in the health care team, our mandate should be to educate all Guyanese through public awareness on issues relating to pharmacy practice.

In observance of this day, the Guyana Pharmacists’ Association wishes to share some important information with the Guyanese public.

Antibiotic resistance can be explained as an antibiotic having lost the ability to effectively kill or control the growth of bacteria. This means that the bacteria continue to multiply even in the presence of therapeutic levels of antibiotics. These medicines become ineffective because the microbes mutate or acquire genetic information from other microbes. Antimicrobial resistance includes antibacterial resistance, antiviral resistance, antiparasitic resistance and antifungal resistance. The last class of antibiotics, the Fluoroquinolones, was produced in the 1980’s after which there

was a void in the discovery of antibiotics.

Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern to countries and Governments. As such, they have begun to pay keen attention to this problem that threatens conventional antibiotic therapy. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that without urgent action, we are heading to ‘A post-antibiotic era—in which common infections and minor injuries can kill—far from being an apocalyptic fantasy, this is, instead, a very real possibility for the 21st century.”

WHO’s first global report on antimicrobial resistance released in April 2014 states that resistance to common bacteria has reached alarming levels in many parts of the world, indicating that many of the available treatment options for common infections in some settings are becoming ineffective. There were high proportions of resistance reported in all Regions, to common treatments, both in the hospital and community settings. As a result, treatment options for common infections are dwindling. National data from WHO Regions on E. coli, K. pneumonia and S. aureus showed that the proportion resistant to commonly used specified antibacterial drugs exceeded 50% in many settings. There is a scarcity of new classes of antibacterial drugs to treat Gram-negative bacteria and this poses an additional problem. This has a negative effect on patient

Whither the ...

From page 6

opportunities to participate in the developmental initiatives to be pursued by the new office-holders. Taking into consideration that voting was mostly along racial lines, it follows logically that instances of actual or perceived discrimination in housing and land allocation, employment, scholarships, community relations, just to name a few areas,

are bound to carry distinct racial hues. The question is: How is the Government going to handle these inevitable issues that will arise?

My own belief is that the illegal land-grabbing currently taking place across the country, in the wake of the elections, is just an indicator of a larger crisis in race-relations looming on the horizon, which the new Government will have

to face head-on within the coming months.

Enter the ERC. The ERC is the constitutional body that was set up some time in 2002 or thereabouts to adjudicate complaints by citizens, organisations, or groups, relating to ethnic incitement, discrimination, or victimisation, and bring lasting resolutions to their real or perceived grievances.

In other words, the ERC is

the country’s foremost conflict-resolution mechanism for resolving ethnic issues.

And, indeed, every conscious Guyanese knows that Guyana has real ethnic issues of the racial kind. These issues have always been there; they simmer beneath the surface, all year round, but predictably erupt during elections periods, along political lines, mainly between Africans and Indians.

I really would like to know what is to become of the ERC? What is the present Government’s thinking on

outcomes and health-care expenditure.

Preliminary studies indicate that there is a multi-drug resistance problem in Guyana.

One of the resolutions adopted at the World Health Assembly on 24th May, 2014, in Geneva, was that of antimicrobial drug resistance. The assembly urged Governments to strengthen national action and international collaboration which requires sharing the extent of resistance and the use of antibiotics in humans and animals; and also involves improving awareness among health providers and the public of the threat posed by resistance. The assembly also emphasised the need for responsible use of antibiotics, and the importance of good hand hygiene, vaccinations, proper sanitation and clean water, and infection control in health facilities.

Pharmacists are reminded to counsel their patients with regard to antibiotic use and physicians are also reminded not to prescribe antibiotics unnecessarily. Consumers are asked not to purchase antibiotics over-the-counter and selftreat with antibiotics; this can lead to serious consequences where life-threatening illnesses may not be cured. Antibiotics are only to be used when prescribed by a physician and the entire course should be taken, even if the patient feels better. Never share antibiotics with others or use left-over antibiotics.

It is essential to take appropriate measures to preserve the efficacy of the existing antimicrobial drugs so that common and life-threatening infections can be cured.

Let us all work together for the betterment of the health of our nation.

The Guyana Pharmacists’ Association is therefore calling on all pharmacists to celebrate our profession and to use Commonwealth Pharmacy Day to reach out to our patients/clients, utilising every opportunity to disseminate some form of information that will truly help to improve the quality of life for all in 2015 and beyond.

Happy Pharmacy Day to all!

The Guyana Pharmacists’ Association the role of the Commission?

I ask these questions in light of the predominance of race in our electoral history, and the Government’s avowal to hold Local Government Elections within its first 100 days in office. Are we going to have Local Government Elections without the ERC? If so, then maybe we did not learn anything from our General Elections.

In closing, I wish to say that there can be no better opportunity for our new President to show his commitment to the fostering of

good race relations in the country than to swiftly bring on board the ERC, so that, at least for Local Government Elections, the ERC will be in place to deal condignly with instances of racial incitement similar to those which tainted the just-concluded elections.

It is time! Please, Mr. President! I beseech you to add the ERC to your Government’s list of priorities.

The nation is watching.

C. SAMPSON

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Canadian envoy assures improvement of...

‘Canada-Guyana Medical Partnership Coalition’ – during call on Public Health Ministers

By Navendra Seoraj CANADIAN High Commissioner to Guyana, Nicole Giles during a courtesy call on Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton and Junior Public Health Minister, Dr. Karen Cummings, observed that there is a “big task ahead” of them to further develop the Ministry but she assured that Canada will continue to support the Government of Guyana and particularly the Ministry of Public Health as time progresses.

During the discussion in the Minister’s office at the Ministry of Public Health, High Commissioner Giles stressed the importance of maintaining and strengthening the bond between Guyana and Canada as it relates to the development of the health sector.

One of the main agreements between Guyana and Canada, she noted is the ‘Canada-Guyana Medical Partnership Coalition’, which they will be looking forward to improve as they move along, while more medical students would be accredited,

more heart surgeries will be done, more doctors will be trained and so much more.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT However, she highlighted that empowering the community is one important area in the development of the health sector, thereby getting regular community members involved in the various outreach programmes done by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the various health centres. “This method has proven successful in Canada and should be promoted in Guyana as well.”

The Canadian High Commissioner later submitted a plan to the Public Health Minister which spells out some suggested strategies as well as other useful information which would prove useful for the development of the Ministry.

When asked about his venture into the portfolio, Minister Norton noted that, “we could only solve the problem if we know what it is, hence I want to have hands-on experience, that’s why I have been on the

ground so we could decide how we are going to solve these existing problems within the sector.”

He further stated that they have been going around to the various health centres to gain their very own experiences, so as to assess the situation at these centres.

REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM Apart from their own assessments, he added, they have called on the Heads of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to have an assessment of the Guyana’s health system, as it relates to the Regional health system, health officers and health authorities.

“I’m convinced that the Regional system is not a bad system, but there are the influential factors which ought to be improved so as to have the Regional health system up and running again,” he said.

One such move, he highlighted, is to ensure that more Regional Health Officers are more qualified, and also to

From left: Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, Canadian High Commissioner, Nicole Giles and Dr. Debra Isaac yesterday in the Minister of Public Health’s Office

ensure that they work closely with the Regional offices.

Another measure they would be looking at is the formation of a Regional Health Committee to evaluate what exists at the moment. “The administration, however, is a problem at the various health centres, where simple repairs of the

building and maintenance of the equipment can’t be managed,” said the Public Health Minister.

Meanwhile, Dr. Cummings said that they have to ensure that community health care is centralised so that there could be improved facilities at the various health centres.

“ H a v i n g G u y a n a ’s health system on par with foreign countries is a target which we will push to achieve, as they would also be targeting the 2020 vision of acquiring more personnel so as to boost the services offered at the local health care facilities,” she said.

Father of four paralysed one month after hit by speeding car – wants to contact his sister and brother

By Shirley Thomas A ROUTE 40 minibus conductor remains in a critical condition in the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), one month after being struck down by a speeding motorcar at the corner of Sheriff and Duncan Streets, Campbellville.

The accident happened on May 17 last and the victim is 31-year-old Rajesh R a g b e e r o f 7 6 S h e ri ff S t r e e t , C a m p b e l l ville, a father of four.

Rajesh Ragbeer who is suffering spinal injury after being hit by a speeding car one month ago at the corner of Sheriff and Duncan Streets

He suffered injuries to his spine and multiple fractures to his limbs.

He also complains of having lost sensation in his back and leg, consistent with paralysis of that region.

Ragbeer recalled that it was shortly after midday and he had just signalled to his driver that he would l i k e t o b e p u t o ff a t the corner of Duncan and Sheriff Streets to buy something to eat.

When the driver turned out of Duncan Street and was proceeding south along Sheriff

Street, he stopped the bus and the conductor got off.

Ragbeer said as he was about to cross the road, a motorcar travelling in the same direction ploughed into him and struck him down. The badly injured Ragbeer was picked up by his driver and other passengers in the bus, and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

The injured man said the motorist who struck him down visited him in hospital twice and promised to

enter into a settlement.

However, that promise is still unfulfilled.

Ragbeer, whose parents are both dead, said he would like his sister and brother who both live on the East Coast Demerara to know about his accident and that he is hospitalised.

H i s s i s t e r ’s n a m e is Elizabeth Persaud, also called ‘Asha’ of Better Hope, and his brother ’s name is Ganesh Latchman, also called ‘Sonno’ of Clonbrook, Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Jury in Clive Knights murder trial hears evidence in audio/visual Link from New York

By George Barclay AN Assize jury trying Clive Knights for the murder of GTM employee Burt Whyte in 2012 yesterday listened to evidence from New York based on an audio/visual link.

Testifying firstly was brother, Steve Whyte of Phoenix Park, West Bank Demerara, who said that on the day in question, he was at home watching television when he received a telephone call from a friend.

As a result, he went to the GPHC’s A&E Department, where he saw his brother,

Burt Whyte, lying on a bed motionless.

He was dead, and had what appeared to be blood on his clothing and two puncture wounds to his chest.

Forensic Pathologist, Dr.Nehaul Singh later performed a post-mortem which found that the deceased had sustained two wounds said to be inflicted with a sharp circular instrument at least 18 cm in length. The cause of death was given as haemorrhage and shock due to perforation of the heart and lung, as well as stab wounds.

Prosecutrix Mrs. Judith

Gildharie-Mursalin, who along with Miss Narissa Leander is prosecuting, told the jury that the 44-year-old Burt Whyte had been employed at GTM Insurance Company at Robb & Hincks Streets; and on the day in question, Burt Whyte left his home to drop his niece off at her school, Concord Academy, located at New Market Street, Georgetown.

At about 5:15 pm, Burt Whyte allegedly picked up his niece, and the girl had said there was the presence of another man in the car when her uncle dropped her at the Stabroek Market,

from where she took a boat to go across the river where she lived.

According to the prosecutrix, the police launched an investigation into the death of Burt Whyte, and a wanted bulletin was issued for the accused. Searches also began for Burt Whyte’s car, which was missing.

Police found Burt Whyte’s car, PKK 6586, on May 18, 2012 in Stanley-town, Berbice. It appeared to have been locked and abandoned. The car had number plates PJJ 7701, while PKK 6589 was marked on the mirrors, glass

and lights.

According to the prosecutrix, police officers were conducting a road block exercise at the Soesdyke/ Linden Highway in August 2012 when a minibus which was heading to Georgetown was stopped and the accused was found seated in the bus.

When a police officer asked him his name, he said it was Tony David. That Police Officer, Marlon Langhorne, recalled there was a wanted bulletin of someone matching the description of the accused, and he detained the accused and contacted Brickdam Police Station for

information about the person in the wanted bulletin.

As a result, detective Corporal Kester Cosbert went to the Highway Patrol Base where he identified Clive Knights, because he said he knew him for a number of years.

The accused, Clive Knights, is charged with the murder of 44-year-old Burt Whyte on May 14, 2012, at Bentick Street, Cummingsburg, Georgetown, the prosecutrix said.

Attorney-at-law Mrs. K. Thompson is defending Clive Knights.

The trial is continuing.

Communities Ministry begins expediting all house lot applications MINISTER Ronald Bulkan of the Ministry of Communities said last week that that Ministry is in process of expediting all applications for house lots; this in the wake of a recent land-grabbing exercise staged by disgruntled residents along East Coast and East Bank Demerara.

He acknowledged that a recent short-lived land-grabbing exercise of state and privately-owned lands by some members of the public highlighted the urgent need for assisting citizens who are in dire need of land for housing.

He disclosed that an indepth review of past applications is currently ongoing, with the intent that all applicants who qualify are given house lots to build their own homes.

He further stated that in

addition to these actions, the Ministry, over the next five years, intends to build approximately 4,000 houses in cohesive communities to benefit more than 4,000 households and approximately 16,000 persons.

The idea of cohesive communities is to ensure that the shelter and other needs of households are met in an effort to address issues such as availability of day-care facilities; functioning playgrounds; proximity to jobs, schools and other amenities that are consistent with improved quality of life in communities.

In the cohesive communities, emphasis would be placed on the provision of social infrastructure and other amenities, in addition to the regular services, such as electricity, roads and water distribution networks.

He disclosed that Minister

Keith Scott, who functions within the Ministry of Communities, has begun weekly meetings with members of the public, to discuss their issues and to help them. Minister Scott meets with the public every Wednesday, between 09:00hrs and 11:30 hrs. This initiative began on Wednesday, June 10.

In the wake of the swearing in of the coalition Government in early May last, land grabbing situations along the Coast escalated, with state and privately owned lands being encroached upon by persons who marked out house lots for themselves.

During that action, residents of Success, East Coast Demerara blocked the main carriageway on the Railway Embankment with debris and other obstacles. Those involved in the illegal ac-

Holdup accused was caught with spoils in his pocket - court hears A TWENTY-year-old resident of West La Penitence was yesterday brought before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer to the charge of robbery under arms.

Keon Simon was slapped with the charge which stated that on June 13 at La Penitence, Simon being armed with a gun robbed Marcia Rampersaud of two gold

rings valued $40,000 along with her $20,000 gold chain.

Simon was charged indictably but after the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) was applied the defendant pleaded not guilty.

Police Prosecutor Simone Payne did not relate the facts to the court but objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness, prevalence and nature of the offence as a gun was allegedly used

in the commission of the robbery.

Payne further objected, citing that the articles mentioned in the charge were found in the defendant’s pocket and he was positively identified by the victim.

The man was refused bail and was remanded to prison until June 18 when he will appear before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

tivity desisted only after being told by the Govern-

ment that their needs would be seriously addressed by

the incoming Administration. (Clifford Stanley)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Canada to fund six-year plantain production and marketing project

LOCAL plantain farmers will soon be receiving full support from a Canadian-funded six-year project aimed at enhancing production and facilitating linkages with local and overseas markets.

The Canadian plantain support project falls under a regional programme being implemented by the Canadian Hunger Foundation (CHF) under the name Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce through Enterprises and Linkages (PROPEL).

PROPEL intends to increase the value of Caribbean fresh produce -- in Guyana’s case plantains -- through access to high-value markets (HVMs) in the Caribbean and internationally.

Funding for the proj-

ect for the next six years would be provided through the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs Trade and Development (DFATD) and the CHF, and would be to the tune of Cdn. $100 million.

The CHF disclosed that the PROPEL project would enhance production and improved management practices of the targeted beneficiaries through training programmes in plantain management and agronomy.

These and other goals would be achieved through Farmer Field Schools; the use of extension services; farmer-to-farmer/farm exchange visits; support for on-farm research and demonstration plots/trials; and support to generate high quality

Tuesday, June 16, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Wednesday, June 17, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Thursday, June 18, 2015 - 05:00 hrs

planting materials through mass propagation systems.

The project also aims to improve the ability of local farmers to respond to quality standard requirements of markets.

CHF announced start-up of the project in a recent notice in the print media, captioned: “Opportunities for plantain farmers; CHF supporting plantain production in Guyana.”

Participation is open to small-, medium-and largescale agricultural producers domiciled and/or operating within the main agricultural regions of Guyana, who satisfy certain criteria. One of the criteria which must be met for participation in the PROPEL project, the CHF disclosed, is that the producer must be an individual business, or a producer group (PG), or a cooperative entity engaged in primary agricultural production, with plantains being one of the crops cultivated. The production must be in commercial quantities; in this regard, a minimum of 300 suckers.

Additionally, the individual or entity must be willing and able to participate in aspects of the project’s programme, including cooperation with CHF and all other stakeholders, which would include other producers, government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and providers of technical services.

The Guyana Office for the PROPEL project is based at the local CHF Caribbean base at 26 Lamaha & Irving Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown.

Farmers interested in participating in the PROPEL project can visit the office to get additional information, or call telephone numbers 226-6242, 227-7839, or 226-5891. (Clifford Stanley)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Minister Norton visits Kabakaburi Health Centre – learns no resident Medex or solar power electricity there

The Kabakaburi Health Centre in the Upper Pomeroon River

Committee Chairman of the Kabakaburi Health Centre, Mr. Nicholas Baharally

By Rajendra Prabhulall SENIOR Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, accompanied by Inter Ministerial Advisor, Mr. Seewchan, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr. Trevor Thomas, and Regional Health Officer, Dr. Allison Brown, visited communities in the Upper Pomeroon River and inspected several health centres there on Saturday.

The Ministerial party

first stopped at the Kabakaburi Health Centre, near the mouth of the Aripiaco River, a tributary of the Pomeroon River. There he was told

by Midwife Ms. Yolindra Roberts that the centre is without the services of a resident Medex, and there is no solar electricity in the building.

Ms. Roberts explained that a ten-panel solar system had been installed by the previous PPP/C Government, but the batter-

ies got damaged some two years ago and were never replaced, despite several reports having been made to the Region 2 Administration.

Ms. Roberts said no effort was made by the Administration to get the solar system back into operation.

The Minister also observed that a tap in the birthing room of the health centre did not supply running water. The Minister turned on the tap and inquired from community health worker Ms. Carla Smith how long the tap was out of operation. She told him for several months.

Minister Norton said

he was very disappointed and upset that an important thing like a tap in a birthing room does not have running water despite the Regional Administration having a plumber employed on a fulltime basis.

The Minister therefore instructed Dr. Brown to put more interest in the operation of the health centre.

Chairman of the Health Committee for the Kabakaburi Health Centre, Mr. Nicolos Baharally, told the Minister that the committee, in its drive to support health care at the centre, raises its own funds.

He told the Minister that eight mosquito nets were

Health Minister, Dr. George Norton addressing residents of Kabakaburi in the Upper Pomeroon River on Saturday

recently purchased and donated to the centre, and the committee recently repainted several bed frames and the solar power house. He also said a new wick and five gallons of kerosene oil had been purchased for the fridge in which vaccines are stored.

Mr. Baharally said the objective of the committee is to make the centre worker-friendly; hence the building was given a facelift some two years ago when members of the committee repainted the building.

He said the bridge leading to the Medex quarters was also repaired by the committee.

SORE ISSUE The Chairman told the Minister that the sore issue for the health centre is the flooding of the compound whenever there is high tide in the Pomeroon River. He said water overflows the banks freely and flood the entire compound, because of erosion that is taking place along the banks of the Aripiaco River.

Mr. Baharally suggested that the health centre be relocated to higher ground.

Minister Norton agreed with

the suggestion, and promised that the building would be relocated in the future.

He also invited Chairman Baharally to discuss the issue with members of the health committee.

MEDEX The Chairman told the Minister that the health centre had a Medex, but she proceeded on leave and never returned.

However, Dr. Brown interjected and said the Medex left because of security issues and because of poor infrastructure.

Minister Norton ex pressed dissatisfaction with what he had witnessed at the Kabakaburi Health Centre, and the Chairman of the Health Committee concurred with that sentiment.

The Minister said the situation in the Pomeroon would be looked at, the idea was floated to him and he is actively considering it.

Minister Norton said he is looking to place a doctor at the Kabakaburi Health Centre. He thanked the Health Committee for doing a good job, and commended them for their work. This centre was built some 43 years ago.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Former President Ramotar urges supporters to continue the struggle …as PPP/C hosts Enmore Martyrs rally

Former President Donald Ramotar engaging his supporters at Robert’s Square Enmore

By Rebecca Ganseh-Ally “WE will continue to struggle and this time it will not be 28 years, but in less than 5 years we will bring these people to their place” were the words of Former President Donald Ramotar as he addressed supporters yesterday at Robert’s Square in Enmore.

Speaking at a public meeting, former President Donald Ramotar related that on this occasion “I join with my trade union colleagues in saluting the Enmore Martyrs; let their struggle, and let their sacrifice serve to inspire us to fight for a better Guyana.”

Ramotar said that on May 11, the now Government was able to penetrate the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) machinery.

According to the former President, “Dr Steve Surujbally knew something was wrong with the 490 boxes and his conscience was not allowing him to declare the results.”

He went on to explain that even though there was a call for those boxes to be investigated, the Chairman of GECOM still declared the results at last.

“You must be ready to fight for the change of the Elections Commission; the PPP/C has lost confidence in

the chairman of the Elections Commission who presided over a rigged election and this is why we say Surujbally must go.”

“The Government does not represent the will of the people and this is a repeat of the undemocratic elections in 1964 and 1968”, Ramotar related. Moreover the former President explained the occurrences in the operations of the Guyana Sugar Cooperation and the changes that occurred that the then Government was faced with.

He noted the recent firing of CEO Raj Singh, a man, he said, who was turning the industry around.

Two suspects arrested over murder of miner

POLICE yesterday arrested two suspects for the murder of gold miner, 18-year-old Keith Daniels who was stabbed to death last week Monday morning during a robbery.

According to police sources, the ranks acted on information received and were able to apprehend the two men who were in the Kitty area yesterday.

It was also noted that the men are known to the police and had been arrested in the past for other criminal matters.

Daniels of Lot 42 Public Road, Kitty home was stabbed a short distance from his home and robbed of his valuables before being left on the roadside to die.

On the night before the man had left his home to purchase a mobile phone card but ended up with some friends and went ‘hanging out’ for the night. He was heading home the next morning while the place was still dark when he was attacked by the robbers.

The badly injured youth was rushed to Woodlands Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

“We can do this if we work together in unity, we must work to defend, we must not allow them to go unchallenged”, he urged his supporters.

“We have fought for too long and too hard to have these people (the new Government) violate our Guyanese people, we have a history in the PPP/C of this kind of struggle. Cheddi Jagan was at the forefront of the struggles and we must never let his life be in vain and we must defend the rights of our people”, former President Donald Ramotar urged his supporters.

Also attending the

Samuel Hinds lays a wreath in commemoration of the 67th Anniversary of the Enmore Martyrs

wreath laying ceremony and public meeting were former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, General Secretary of the PPP/C Clem-

Deportee arrested over execution of water vendor

By Leroy Smith

A DEPORTEEE has been arrested for the execution style killing of 27-year-old water vendor Colin Kendall who was shot fifteen times about the body two Sundays ago.

According to information received, the suspect who was arrested while attending court yesterday was deported some time back for a cocaine offence in another country.

The police received intelligence that the person who was being sought for the killing of the 27-year-old

had a court matter yesterday. When the suspect was in court he was promptly picked up by investigators working on the case.

Kendall was shot while sitting and playing cards with his friends at a shop in North Sophia when the suspect showed up in a white car and opened fire at the man before escaping in the vehicle.

Another resident of Sophia was also injured in the shooting.

Persons in North Sophia on the night of the shooting had described the now dead man as a menace.

ent Rohee, Robeson Benn, Irfaan Ali, Anil Nandlall, Dr Bheri Ramsaran and other executive members of the PPP/C.

Vocal pow Karaoke S The venue came alive last Saturday evening as thirty very talented amateur singers battled for supremacy and a chance to represent Guyana vocally in Trinidad.

The was the first audition inside ‘Club Next’ (Princess International Hotel) as singers from around Guyana battled fiercely to receive the judges nods to take them to the first leg of the ‘Princess Star Karaoke 2015 Showdown’ which will take place at the same venue on Saturday, June 20, 2015.

At last Saturday’s auditions the battle was fierce as each

singer fused v catchy moves t attention. At the three lucky si lighted when th had won three containing all th National Milli Guyana Inc, (N The panel o of Karaoke Que Ruff Kut Stud top fashion des Jason Shurland musician and Adams, and ce musician, Devo Among the

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Security sector to benefit from capacity building through Canadian partnership

Second Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan greeting outgoing Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Nicole Giles, during a courtesy call

OUTGOING Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Nicole Giles, along with a team, yesterday paid a courtesy call on the newly appointed Second Vice President and Public Security Minister, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, at the Ministry of Public Security, Brickdam, Georgetown.

During the meeting, the two officials discussed a number of areas of mutual

interest that could see possible collaboration between the two countries.

According to the Minister, among several issues discussed were training and capacity building for Guyana Police Force officers.

“Better training from the Royal Mounted Branch, also the police college out of Canada, it has to do with mentoring our policemen and women,” said the Minister.

Second Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan in discussion with Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Nicole Giles, along with her team during a courtesy call at the Ministry of Public Security, Brickdam, Georgetown

This, he added, will be done in five areas: gender violence, women in police leadership, human rights, crime scene management and public corruption.

Dr. Giles pointed out that funds will be available through a grant of CAN$750,000 to help develop the justice system in Guyana.

This money is a part of a project with the Jus-

tice Education Society of British Columbia, which is a Canadian Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), which aims at strengthening the justice system.

It is expected to be spent on legislative drafting, improving the administrative department of the courts, and training for lawyers and judges, along with capacity building for

police officers.

The Security Minister also noted that crime scene management will be a major focus under this training programme, because “here in Guyana, it is believed that almost anybody can go on the scene, it is not done properly, and then evidence and a whole lot of other things are tampered with negligently, and sometimes deliberately.”

He also reiterated that, “we feel with this type of training that we are going to implement in the police force, we will get better results and far more deterring effects… we feel that it can have direct influence in impunity rates.”

Minister Ramjattan said, “I believe we are on a good road here in bringing more success in the security sector.” (GINA)

wer reigned supreme at ‘Princess 2015 Star’ auditions – NAMILCO surprises three lucky contestants with food hampers

vocal power with to gain the judges e end of the event, ingers were dehey realised they e hefty hampers he products of the ing Company of NAMILCO) of judges consisted een ‘DJ Madonna, dio’s ‘DJ Cody’, signer and singer d, overseas based d author Jamall ertified Guyanese on Browne. e twenty-five who

made it to the first round, three performers literally took the judges and audience to their feet in thunderous applause.

They were Lashaun Charles and Junior Corbin of Georgetown, and Michael Spencer of Victoria, East Coast Demerara.

The event attracted singers from Linden, Berbice, Bartica, and Georgetown, and the West Demerara district.

The twenty five lucky contestants short listed will face off at the first round of competition inside Princess Hotel’s ‘Club Next’ on Saturday, June 30.

Making it to the first round

Some of the highlights from the Princess Star Auditions Saturday last are Oquela Jones, DJ Mambo, Sandra King, La shaun Charles, Petal Bailey, Crystal Moore, Iodele Gilbert, Petal France,

Winifred Mason, Junior Corbin, and Lisa Walcott.

Others who were successful are Michael Spencer, Damion

Apple, Silyne Griffith, Oconell Morgan, Brian Gonsalves, Shawn Williams, Kevin Scott, Gino Fullington, Qusa Pollard,

runway diva, ‘Maria’, Sharon Martin, Amanda Khani, Elizabeth Leung, and Sharon Jacobs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Indigenous People’s Ministry to prioritise technical, vocational training for hinterland communities MINISTER Sydney Allicock of the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs has outlined some plans for the hinterland regions. He said that technical and vocational studies are to be prioritised.

Minister Allicock said that while equipment is there, maintenance remains a big issue. He was referring to the equipment and machinery given to Amerindian villages to aid their development. In this vein, the Minister said training in technical areas is needed.

“We have a number of wonderful equipment: like tractors; we have solar systems; solar panel; we have buses; but then, when they are broken, we go back to ask for new ones, and here is where education comes in; here is where training comes in.”

Minister Allicock said technical training centres are needed in the regions and districts where there is a very high youth population.

Training institutions to be set up in these areas would cater to the teaching of agriculture and home economics, the Minister said. These areas would be upgraded, since a major focus would be on eco-tourism or tourism in general, he disclosed. “…all these other areas are related to tourism, we see everything relating to transportation, to get people food; so you need agriculture. People (need) to know what plants to grow, and here is where you need persons with the ability to cater, having balanced diets or understanding customers’ needs,” he explained.

These, too, the Minister said, would add to the social and economic upliftment of communities. In addition, emphasis would be placed on women’s and children’s issues, as these also play a critical role in society.

Minister Allicock said women and children play a very critical role in keeping their culture alive, which is something his Ministry would work hard to achieve.

“We believe that, more than ever, the women can make us survive, have our identity out there; but they have to be given the opportunity,” he declared.

The cultural aspect of any society is also necessary, the Minster said, as it aids in producing more rounded individuals.

Going forward, Minister Allicock said that more opportunities would be made available to youths in the hinterland, so as to equip them with more skills to meet the needs of their communities. (GINA)

Fish vendor caught stealing BK’s truck battery – court told A FISH vendor who appeared yesterday before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court was accused of stealing a truck battery from BK International.

Randolph Thompson, 32 years, a resident of Albouystown denied the allegation that on June 12 at Mandela Avenue, East La Penitence, Georgetown, he attempted to commit a felony, that is to say he attempted to steal a truck battery valued $70,000, property of BK International.

According to the prosecution, on the day in question at about 09:30 hrs, Thompson was seen climbing over a fence into the company’s compound where he proceeded to motor truck GLL 1985 and attempted to remove its battery. Workers on duty who saw the theft in progress alerted security officers.

Thompson was about to make good of escape when he was apprehended by a security officer and taken to Ruimveldt Police Station, where he was arrested and charged.

Police Prosecutor Simon Payne objected to bail, citing the seriousness and prevalence of the charge. However, the prosecution’s objection was overruled and the father of two was released on $75,000 bail. He was ordered to return to court on June 17 before Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

ESPN confirmed Shabazz flays Jaguars defensive lineup … calls it ‘glass jaw’ style to broadcast Hero CPL in Caribbean

By Stephan Sookram

WITH less than a week to go before the start of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the global broadcasters for the 2015 tournament have been announced, ensuring that the Biggest Party in Sport will be beamed into over 200 million households across the world.

ESPN and Guardian Media Group are the broadcasters that will be providing coverage to the Caribbean for the duration of the tournament.

Big-name broadcasters such as Sony Six (India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and Maldives) BT Sport (UK), Guardian Group (Caribbean), ESPN (USA and Caribbean), Fox Sports (Australia), SuperSport (South Africa) and Sky (New Zealand) have all signed deals to carry live coverage of this year’s tournament, with a broadcaster in Pakistan and Bangladesh expected to be confirmed before the tournament starts.

Last year’s competition attracted a global audience in excess of 65 million, and this year is set to be even higher as fans across the world continue to be drawn to the high quality action on the pitch and the unique party atmosphere off it.

Damien O’Donohoe, CEO, Hero Caribbean Premier League, said, “Our global viewing figures almost doubled last year, from 35 million to 65 million, as word spread about the Biggest Party in Sport.

This year’s competition promises to be bigger and better than ever before, and we’re confident that we will continue to increase our global reach in partnership with some of the world’s most prominent broadcasters.”

The competition will feature 33 matches, and will kick off with a repeat of last year’s final, with defending champions Barbados Tridents hosting Guyana Amazon Warriors, at Kensington Oval, on June 20.

The final, at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad, will take place on July 26.

NOTABLE DATES

SOUTHPAW welterweight Iwan `Pure Gold’ Azore secured his first stoppage-win on June 12, 2005. The Guyanese-born Trinidad resident nailed John `The Hammer’ Trotman of Barbados in the fourth round of a scheduled six-rounder to win by TKO. The fight was held at the Petrotrin Ground in Trinidad and Tobago.

Azore’s record improved to 5-0. A member of a group of young pugilists emerging from Guyana just after the turn of the Millennium, the southpaw made his pro debut in September 2004 in his adopted homeland. He touched defeat for the first time in August 2005 following a TKO loss to Michael Springer, a Canadian resident.

Azore, rose to local prominence in July 2007 when he dropped a bombshell on the veteran Keith `Crusher’ Thomas. Referee Eion Jardine stopped the contest at one minute 18 seconds of the first round to award him a TKO victory and the vacant national welterweight title.

Azore has not fought since edging Mark Austin by split decision in November 2012 and has a record of 16 victories, five defeats and three draws.

GUYANA Senior National Men’s team, the Golden Jaguars, suffered from what is being described as a ‘glass jaw’ in their defence, which led to their 4-4 draw with the St Vincent National team at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, last Sunday evening.

Head coach of the Golden Jaguars unit, Jamaal Shabazz, did not mince words in expressing this view on the defensive work of his unit during the postmatch press conference.

“It didn’t just go in the team’s favour, it didn’t go in our country’s favour, I thought we didn’t do well in defence at all. I thought we had a glass jaw and you know, while we always had to keep coming from behind, the little inspiration that we got in getting back into the game, I thought

our defending left a lot to be desired. If we give up this many goals in international football, it’s always going to be very, very difficult to win.”

Shabazz went on to defend his team’s starting 11, adding that the movers and shakers in the team had set out certain expectations.

“We, the technicians are in the training sessions, all the training sessions; we know what we trying to get out of the team and it is a decision that we have to make.

Always, it is easy to second guess it after the fact.

“The team the fans pick don’t ever lose but nobody considers that they don’t ever win either. So it’s easy to second-guess who should have played and who should not have played, but I don’t think that had anything to do with the result.

“I thought that the result, for anybody who knows football was clear,

we didn’t defend as well as we should and we paid the price for it. I think that’s the critical issue.”

He contended that the team played valiantly to the end and he is proud of that, adding too that every time they fell to the ground, they were able to pick themselves back up and equalise. The Trinidad international also commented on the exclusion of defender Matthew Briggs, who he said had complained of pains in the stomach.

Shabazz said after discussions with the management and the player, they decided that someone with more energy should be given the chance.

Captain Chris Nurse said that the unit fell due to a few individual errors but refused to lay the blame at any single person’s feet.

“The players played their hearts out. They scored 4 goals at home and we lost the game on a

few individual errors, but it happens in football. We win as a team and we lose as a team, so we will get around the guys, pick each other up and tomorrow is another day.”

Vincy Heat head coach Cornelius Huggins, quizzed about his team’s obvious improvements commented on the fact that they had been working on the finishing.

“Yeah! We worked a lot on finishing; I think that was one of the problems in St Vincent. As I say, you get one opportunity, you have to count that when you playing against top teams like Guyana, one opportunity, and you have to score that.”

Even though the game ended in a 4-4 draw, the touring St Vincent side progressed via the awaygoal rule, taking with them Guyana’s chance at securing a spot in the Russia 2018 world cup qualifiers.

CONCACAF Qualifiers..

Barbados cruise, drama for SVG, Antigua

MIAMI, United States, (CMC) – Barbados cruised into the third round of the CONCACAF 2018 World Cup qualifiers while Antigua and Barbuda and St Vincent and the Grenadines needed dramatic efforts before also advancing, in the return legs of second round matches on Sunday night.

In Bridgetown, Hadan Holligan’s clinical second half finish handed Barbados a 1-0 win over Aruba and a 3-0 victory on aggregate following their 2-0 triumph in Oranjestad last Wednesday.

However, Antigua overturned a 3-1 deficit from their first leg to beat St Lucia 4-1 in St John’s and catapult into the next round 5-4 on aggregate.

More drama prevailed in Georgetown where SVG appeared to be easing into the next round while leading 4-2 – and 6-4 on aggregate – deep in the second half.

However, Guyana scored twice in the space of ten minutes as the game finished 4-4 and 6-6 on aggregate but the visitors advanced on away goals.

In other games played on Sunday, Curacao followed up their nil-all draw in Willemstad with a 1-1 draw against Cuba in Havana, to qualify for the third round also on away goals.

And in Belmopan, Belize dismissed the Dominican Republic 3-1 to win 5-1 on aggregate.

On a windy night at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex, Barbados controlled the game from the outset against the Arubans, and delivered the knockout punch when Holligan finished with aplomb in the 79th minute.

There was no such serenity at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, however. Coming off a heavy 3-1 defeat at the same venue last Wednesday, Antigua seemed headed out with the game locked 1-1 in the 84th minute.

But Tavaughn Harriette put the hosts 2-1 up with an 85th minute strike and Josh Parker added his second in the third minute of stoppage, to draw Antigua level on aggregate.

Aaron Tumwa then sensationally scored in the dying seconds as Antigua kept their World Cup qualification bid alive.

A goal fest ensued at the national Stadium at Providence where SVG hung on grimly in the end to see themselves over the line.

They led on 16 minutes through Myron Samuel before Emery Welshman equalised six minutes before the break.

Tevin Slater put the visitors back in front two minutes later, a lead which carried into the interval.

A Brandon Beresford penalty drew Guyana level but the two decisive blows came when Slater scored his second and Oalex Anderson got his first all in the space of ten minutes to put SVG ahead on 66 minutes.

The visitors appeared to be coasting home but Welshman cracked into his second Neil Danns struck four minutes from time to make things interesting.

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11:05 hrs Forest Maiden 11:45 hrs Emerahldz 12:20 hrs Bella Nostalgia 12:50 hrs Threes Grand Ascot 09:30 hrs Able Friend 10:05 hrs Round Two 10:40 hrs Muthmir 11:20 hrs Consort 12:00 hyrs Fun Mac 12:35 hrs Ruby Notion American Racing Tips Parx Racing Race 1 Sanculpa Race 2 Gindini Race 3 Big N Toasty Race 4 Bake Shop Race 5 Jet Alley Race 6 Native Strike Race 7 Image Race 8 Winter Games Race 9 I’ll Run the Show

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Warriors move within one win of NBA title (REUTERS) - The Golden State Warriors won the battle of small-ball and defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 104-91 on Sunday to move within a win of their first NBA title in 40 years.

Stephen Curry scored 37 points and the Warriors withstood a 40-point triple-double from LeBron James to grab a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series.

With the Golden State fan base starving for a title, the Oracle Arena crowd chanted “one more to go” following the win. The Warriors can clinch their first championship since 1975 with a win in Game Six today in Cleveland.

Their Game Five win was a battle of speed, with both teams benching their big men as a strategic move.

“It was a chess match and we both have a bunch of wings and guards that can fill a lineup,” Curry told reporters after connecting on seven three-pointers.

Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes (40) dunks the ball over Cleveland Cavaliers guard Mike Miller (18) and centre Timofey Mozgov (20) in game five of the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena, Sunday.

(Ezra Shaw-Pool Photo via USA TODAY Sports) “They made an adjustment and tried to match our lineup. I’m sure there will be another adjustment.”

A f t e r t h e Wa r r i o r s benched centre Andrew Bogut to return to their run-andgun style in a 21-point Game

Four victory, Cleveland responded by limiting starting centre Timofey Mozgov to just nine minutes on Sunday.

Double World Cup winner Zito dies, aged 82

SAO PAULO, Brazil (Reuters) - Central defender Zito, who won two World Cups with Brazil, has died aged 82, the Brazilian Football Confederation said yesterday.

Zito, who had been unwell since suffering a stroke last year, played alongside Pele when Brazil won the World Cup in 1958 and 1962 and scored in the 3-1 victory over Czechoslovakia in the 1962 final.

He worked for Santos after he retired as a player and was a key figure in developing young players at the club, including Neymar.

“I have no words to describe that guy, I simply thank him for all he did for

Legendary 1958 World Cup Brazilian soccer players Zito (L) and Djalma dos Santos display the new Brazilian national soccer team jersey as they shake hands in Rio de Janeiro January 21, 2008.

(Reuters/Sergio Moraes) me, for having believed in me and helped me at the start of my career,” Barcelona

striker Neymar wrote on Instagram, alongside a picture of the two together.

“Rest in peace, he did so much for us here. Thank you ZITO!”

The move kept Cleveland close deep into the fourth quarter until Andre Iguodala scored five straight points to put Golden State ahead 91-84 with less than four minutes remaining.

Curry, who scored 17 points in the fourth, added two late three-pointers and free throws to help seal the win.

Iguodala finished with 14 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. James tallied 14 rebounds and 11 assists for his second triple-double of the series.

Cleveland’s Tristan Thompson had 19 points and 10 rebounds.

“I want to do whatever helps our team win and I haven’t been able to do that the last two (games),” James said. “We weren’t good in Game Four (at home), we can’t repeat that or they will raise the trophy for sure.”

With the Cavs battling through limited depth and

ever piling minutes for James, they kept the game close until the fourth where the night turned into a faceoff between James and Curry.

James silenced the crowd with a deep three-pointer that gave the Cavs an 80-79 edge, but Curry responded with a behind-the-back pullup three-pointer of his own on the next possession and Golden State never trailed again.

Much had been made about the defensive job that Cleveland guard Matthew Dellavedova had done against Curry during the Finals, but Golden State’s MVP broke out in a big way to silence that narrative.

“I’m taking (Curry) in any matchup,” team mate Green said. “(Dellavedova) was hounding -- physical, dirty, whatever you want to call it. I was going with Steph no matter what, and I’m still rolling with Steph no matter what.”

Blatter could remain as FIFA head, close adviser tells Sky

LONDON, England (Reuters) - Sepp Blatter is actively considering reversing his promise to stand down as FIFA president, one of his advisers has told Sky News.

Klaus Stoehlker, who advised Blatter during the recent election campaign, said Blatter could remain head of world football’s governing body if a “convincing candidate” to replace him did not emerge.

Blatter stepped down as FIFA president almost two weeks ago, as the Swiss-based body was rocked by corruption allegations.

Stoehlker, who Sky News says stressed he is not an official spokesman, was in a meeting when contacted by Reuters and unable to comment immediately.

Switzerland’s Schweiz am Sonntag newspaper reported on Sunday that Blatter, 79, may seek to stay on.

FIFA refused to be drawn when contacted by Reuters, saying only that “Klaus Stoehlker’s mandate from the FIFA president ended on May 31 2015”, and emailing a link to Blatter’s two-week-old resignation speech.

Now we’re ready for England, says Clarke (REUTERS) - Australia’s short Caribbean tour always looked like something of an horsd’oeuvres for the Ashes and captain Michael Clarke finally allowed himself to address the main course after wrapping up a comfortable 2-0 series sweep on Sunday.

The tourists needed less than four full days to thrash West Indies by 277 runs in the second Test in Kingston, Jamaica and

will clearly be charged with confidence going into the first clash against England, which begins in Cardiff on July 8.

“I think I’m allowed to talk about (the Ashes) now,” Clarke told reporters at Sabina Park.

“Credit to the boys, I was really honest and made it very clear I didn’t want it spoken about at all throughout this series and I’m extremely thankful and proud that none of the guys has spoken about it.

“I’d be lying to say it hasn’t been in the back of everyone’s mind, but the fact we’ve been really disciplined on playing really good cricket in these conditions against this West Indies team is a really good achievement from the boys.

“But we’re all excited about what lies ahead. I’ve spoken a lot about consistency away from home. I just hope this is the start of it.”

Clarke is acutely aware that Australia have not won an Ashes series in England

since 2001 but hopes will be high back home that his 2015 tourists can break that drought.

Steve Smith has been in quite brilliant form with the bat and after the Australian pace bowlers produced the goods on sluggish Caribbean tracks, the selectors will have a job deciding who to leave out against England.

Those decisions lie ahead and Clarke no longer has a seat on the selection panel, so on Sunday he was content

to look back on a job very well done.

“Confidence is a vital part of any team and any squad. You have to earn that though,” Clarke added.

“It takes a lot of hard work to feel you can walk out onto a ground in an international game and have success and once you get it you want it to stay forever.

So you’ve got to ride that wave for as long as you can.

“You’ve got to accept in this game that there are going to be tough times.

Michael Clarke

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

SCA launches first-ever women’s league

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada – Months of planning came to fruition last Sunday when the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) launched its historic women’s league amidst much pomp and splendour at the Ashtonbee ground here with several prominent officials hailing the ground-breaking and auspicious event.

It was also the culmination of a promise made at the SCA’s annual presentation dinner and dance held last October when the Guyanese-dominated entity disclosed its intention to introduce women’s cricket for the first time in its 34-yearold existence.

Among those in attendance were Federal Member of Parliament Rathika Sitsabaiesan and Nancy Lowes, manager of the Parks and Golf Courses, Scarborough District.

The launch was also witnessed by officials of the SCA, including president Deo Samaroo, vice-president Bisham Singh, secretary Eon Gunraj, treasurer Vish Jadunauth and grounds coordinator Mathew Francis. Ontario Cricket Association official Melvin John, Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club (HACC) president Narchand ‘Archie’ Mohan and sponsor of the winning trophy Krishna Sarju were also in attendance.

Delivering brief greetings at the ceremony, Ms

Manager of Parks and Golf Courses, Scarborough District, Nancy Lowes, delivers the ceremonial first ball to set the tournament in motion.

Sponsor Krishna Sarju of Caribbean Waves Restaurant (right) they should endeavour to readily agreed to sponsor hands over the winning trophy to SCA president Deo Samaroo. have much fun as possible the winning trophy and he was present to hand it over Others in picture, from right, are SCA secretary Eon Gunraj, Nancy on and off the field of play.

Speaking on behalf of to the SCA president. Sarju Lowes and SCA treasurer Vish Jadunauth. (Pictures by Frederick the Ontario Softball Crick- also disclosed that he had Halley) et League (OSCL), trea- no hesitation to do same SCA president Samaroo cooperation for the upkeep surer Kim Sue urged the Sitsabaiesan disclosed that when he was approached. she was really happy to see pointed out that his execu- of the venues and wished women to aim to surpass Since there are only three the introduction of women’s tives had worked tirelessly the SCA well in this new their male counterparts. women’s teams this season, cricket in Scarborough and to ensure the commence- venture while OCA’s John Coordinator of the wom- the SCA added the boys’ told the women cricketers ment of the tournament also lauded the association en’s section of the SCA, Under-13 team in order to present that they were lucky and assured that at least for the bold initiative. He George Maharaj, who is make it four and in Sunday’s to have people who were three more teams will come also took the opportunity also the manager of Kaisoca opening matches, Kaisoca on board next season, join- to present bats, helmets and women’s A and B teams, said willing to make it happen.

A took on Superstars while The Sri Lankan-born Sit- ing the three that started scoreboards to both women’s he saw a bright future for the Kaisoca B played the boys’ sabaiesan, who represents the competition last Sun- teams on behalf of Hilrich women’s game, especially Under-13 side.

Scarborough-Rouge River day.

Sports. with more teams set to come The proceedings were Lowes, who admitted in the Federal Parliament, HACC president Mohan on board in 2016. spiced up by a two-man also reminded those present that she’s not too familiar reminded the players that It was also disclosed steel band, bringing a disthat cricket was part of their with the game of cricket, while winning should obvi- that Krishna Sarju of Catinct Caribbean flavour to however pledged her full ously be their primary focus, ribbean Waves Restaurant culture. the occasion.

The SCA still boasts of being the first body to have staged T20 cricket in any part of the world, starting in 1984 and also held an annual six-a-side knockout competition, which was played mostly in the evenings.

The T20 tournament further progressed into the well known ‘Festival Weekend’ which was held over the Brazil’s Douglas celebrates his goal against July, Canada Day weekend Peru with Neymar, during their Copa for a period of three days.

America first round soccer match.

These activities were held DOUGLAS COSTA scored a stoppage-time winner to spare Brazil’s blushes in a difficult at the Ashtonbee Park with Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Copa America opener against Peru on Sunday.

38 teams competing, much Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & Since last summer’s World Cup humiliation against Germany, Brazil had won every game, to the enjoyment of several AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte but it took just three minutes for Dunga’s side to fall behind, with Christian Cueva making families who were in full Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) the most of a defensive mix-up between goalkeeper Jefferson and defender David Luiz to attendance.

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: slam a finish home for Peru.

The SCA participat(1) Greg Chappell (AUST vs WI, Brisbane, 1975-76) However, Ricardo Gareca’s side held the lead for less than two minutes, with Neymar ed in two World Masters (2) Roy Fredericks & Bernard Julien powering home a header from just six yards out after being left completely unmarked from a tournaments, the first in Today’s Quiz: Dani Alves cross into the penalty area.

1985 in Toronto and the When and where did the WI fast bowlers Roberts, Neymar impressed throughout, turning the Peruvian defenders inside out with trademark other in Denmark in 1989, Holding, Croft and Garner play a Test together for the skill and striking the crossbar with an effort from 20 yards. But beyond the Barcelona man, capturing a bronze medal first time? the Selecao struggled to find traction against a stubborn Peru team that continued to attack. in the former and was also When and where did Deryck Murray once captain the Brazil struggled to create much in the second half but found a stoppage-time winner hosted by the St Lucian WI in a Test? when Neymar threaded a sensational pass through to substitute striker Douglas Costa, Government in 1993.

Answers in tomorrow’s issue who finished calmly at the near post. (Eurosport)

Costa nets stoppage-time winner, Neymar stars in Brazil’s Copa opener CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday June 16, 2015)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 16, 2015

Vieira moves to 4th in Suzuki SR3 Barbados Championship GUYANESE ace motor racing driver Mark Vieira showed the driving world that he is still a force to be reckoned with after he crossed the line in first position in the second race of the Suzuki Challenge series Round 3 at the Bushy Park Raceway in Barbados over the weekend.

Vieira clocked an overall time of five minutes nineteen point one one nine seconds (05:19.119) over the 4-lap journey.

He achieved a top speed of 120 kilometres per hour with a best time of fif-

ty-nine point eight nine seven seconds (59.897).

In the first race, he ended 6th and in the final race he ended 4th. On all three occasions, he picked up valuable points to overcome St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Ryan Gonsales, who was 4th heading into Round 3.

Gonsalves now sits 5th.

The leader of the SR3 championship is Barbadian Sean Maloney with 163 points after three rounds: Round 1 (65 points), Round 2 (55 points), and Round 3 (34 points) while Barbadian

Guyana Men’s team dethroned as NACRA Sevens champions … Women finish sixth

G U YA N A’ S N a t i o n a l Men’s rugby team were dethroned as North America Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Sevens champions over the weekend when they competed in Cary, North Carolina at WakeMed Soccer Park.

However, USA, unarguably the most powerful team in the tournament, won the cup 21-5 against Canada while Mexico humbled Cayman Islands 26-19 to take third place.

Guyana trounced Jamaica (19-5) for fifth place while, Bahamas squeezed past Barbados 10-5 to finish in the penultimate position.

Guyana’s performance was only good enough to get them third in the NACRA Championships and they also fell short of the opportunity to qualify for the 2016 Olympics.

On Saturday in the round-robin competition, Guyana, playing in Pool B won their first match 3819 against Bahamas then narrowly lost to Cayman Islands 14-12 in their second match of the day.

The final showdown on Saturday, which happened to be Guyana versus Cayman Islands, went horribly wrong for the Guyanese as they conceded a 51-0 defeat.

Sunday was a better day for Guyana as they won their final round-robin match 29-5 against rivals Trinidad and Tobago then punished Barbados who were playing out of Pool A, by that same score line in

the final round.

After that they faced the Jamaicans to wrap up their participation. The team will now turn their attention to the Pan American Games later this month hoping to qualify for the Olympics.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Women’s team finished sixth overall in North Carolina after being out of the rugby arena for quite some time.

USA Women bulldozed their way through the Cup competition with an 88-0 win over Mexico while Trinidad edged out Jamaica 12-10 and Guyana lost to Cayman Islands 12-5.

Bahamas got the better of Barbados 36-5 to account for the final two spots.

Mark Maloney is second on 157 points: Round 1 (58 points), Round 2 (38 points), and Round 3 (61 points).

Third is Barbadian Stuart Maloney on 153 points: Round 1 (43 points), Round 2 (65 points), and Round 3 (54 points). Mark Vieira sits 4th with 120 -Round 1 (34 points), Round 2 (41 points), and Round 3 (45 points).

Ryan Gonsalves is 5th.

It features one-make racing category in which all competitors race in identical vehicles from the same manufacturer utilising the same model.

Mark Vieira sits in his SR3 Radical.

The same chassis, tyres and engines are used by all drivers.

Success is based on driv-

er skill and car setup instead of engineering skill and budget. The series uses the Radical SR3, powered

by Suzuki purpose-built race car and is being held only in Barbados. (Stephan Sookram)

Hinds wins Castrol Father’s Day 50-mile cycle road race TEAM Evolution’s Orville Hinds on Sunday registered a comprehensive victory to capture top honours in the 15th Annual Guyoil/ Castrol-sponsored 50-mile Pre-Father’s Day cycle road race in the West Demerara area.

Hinds returned a winning time of one hour 55 minutes, 17 seconds faster than last year’s winner Raynauth Jeffrey who had clocked one hour 55 minutes 17 seconds.

Hinds’ team mates Michael Anthony and Jamal John placed second and fourth respectively, while Raul Leal, Junior Niles and Raphael Leung placed third, fifth and sixth in that order.

Leal and Akeem Arthur won two prime prizes each while Hinds, Anthony, John and Leung captured one each.

John, by virtue of plac-

… His fourth win for 2015 season

Team Evolution’s Orville Hinds raises his hands as he crosses the finish line to win the 15th edition of the Castrol-sponsored preFather’s Day 50-mile cycle road race on Sunday. ing fourth overall, won the junior category ahead of Leung and Andrew Hicks respectively.

Niles who placed fifth overall won the veterans’ category ahead of Shameer

Baksh (2nd) and Talim Shaw (3rd).

The mountain bike category was won by Deoraj Garbarran. Second was Seon Budhan while Michael Holder finished third.

Simmons: Failure can inspire success

PORT of Spain, Trinidad - Coach of the West Indies cricket team Phillip Simmons has told young opening batsman Rajendra Chandrika that he has to understand that sometimes you fail, then to succeed.

Chandrika who made his debut in the Test against Australia which ended yesterday failed to score in both innings.

The right-hander got identical dismissals in both innings, driving at deliveries angled across him and getting caught at gully. Chandrika got into the Test side after hitting 75 against the Australians, playing for the WICB XI in the warm-up clash at the Sir Viv Richards ground in Antigua.

He became the second West Indian in the history of Test cricket to collect a pair of ducks on Test debut.

The other was Jamaican off-spinner Alf Valentine who failed to score in both innings of the famous 1950 Test match against England at Old Trafford.

Speaking on the fact Simmons said: There are two things that I said to him: he has to understand that many men made bad starts to their Test career and ended up being great players. In sports sometimes you have to fail to succeed. You look at Michael Jordan who was not good at the beginning of his career and ended up being great.

Rajendra Chandrika out for a pair on his Test debut against Australia.

“The other thing he has to understand that is he can bat, or else he would not have been on the team. He has to keep that confidence in himself, correct his flaws and move forward in his career.”

Chandrika would take heart from the fact that Sri Lanka opener Marvan Atapattu who got one run from his first six innings, including two pairs and five ‘ducks’ and went on to play 90 Test matches, scoring 5 502 runs with 16 Test hundreds at an average of 39.02.

A total of 38 batsmen have been dismissed for a pair on their debut in Test cricket. (Trinidad Guardian)

The 35 starters, who were sent on their way from outside the Wales Police Station, West Bank Demerara, proceeded to Bushy Park, East Bank Essequibo before returning to Schoon Ord, West Bank Demerara for the finish.

However, after being sent on their way, eight cyclists broke from the pack and opened a sizeable lead but were joined by Leal at La Grange while on the upward journey and the bunch interchanged the lead.

It was at Leonora on the downward journey that Anthony and Hinds connected and almost immediately, Anthony attacked and was soon after joined by Hinds and the Team Evolution duo opened a lead that saw them cross the finish line almost one minute before the thirdand fourth-place finishers.

This is Hinds’ fourth victory for the 2015 season and the 14th time that he has placed among the top six this year.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Guyana Men’s team dethroned as NACRA Sevens champions … Women finish sixth See story on page 23

El Dorado Rum renews sponsorship of Guyana Amazon Warriors

D

EMERARA Distillers Limited (DDL) has once again thrown its support behind the Guyana Amazon Warriors and also renewed El Dorado as the official spirit partner for the second consecutive year in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

This year, the beverage giant has widened its support to include Gatorade as the official sports drink of the Guyana Amazon Warriors. Amazon Warriors were delighted to partner with DDL and more so El Dorado.

Marketing Director of Demerara Distillers Limited, Sharda Veeren-Chand said, “CPL T20 continues to grow as one of the largest cricketing events on our calendar. The CPLT20 captures the spirit of who we are as a Caribbean people.

“We get an opportunity to see some of the world’s greatest players compete in what is now the World’s Biggest Party in Sport. We could not miss this opportunity to join the celebration with the World’s Best Rum, El Dorado!”

The CPL T20 Tournament opens in Barbados on June 20 with the Guyana Amazon Warriors going up against the Barbados Tridents then they will oppose the St Lucia Zouks in St Lucia.

The games come to Guyana July 15 to July 21 and tickets are already on sale at the CPL Middle Street office in Georgetown.

This year El Dorado is giving fans an opportunity to join the celebration by winning tickets to all local matches by scratching the back label of any El Dorado 750mL product.

Two lucky winners will also win a trip to Trinidad and Tobago to see the final on July 26.

DDL Marketing Director Sharda Veeren-Chand (left) displays the contracts with CPL OPCO Team Operations Manager, Omar Khan.

Shabazz flays Jaguars defensive lineup … calls it ‘glass jaw’ style

tory See s 20 ge on pa

Hero Caribbean Premier League CEO Damien O’Donohoe

Golden Jaguars coach Jamaal Shabazz and captain Christopher Nurse at Sunday night’s post-game press conference.

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ESPN confirmed to broadcast Hero CPL in Caribbean See story on page 20

TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015