2015 9 29

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No ‘watering down’ of UN speech - Granger vows despite Maduro’s agreements

By Neil Marks in New York

P President David Granger and First Lady Sandra elegantly stepped out last evening to attend a dinner hosted by U.S. President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama in honour of world leaders attending the UN General Assembly in New York

RESIDENT David Granger will today call for the United Nations to protect Guyana as a small nation in the face of provocation and armed force by Venezuela. Granger is addressing the United Nations General Assembly for the first time since his election in May, and despite positive developments Sunday evening, the President has no intention of watering down his speech today.

“Guyana has been subjected, from the time of independence, to provocation (and) harassment from Venezuela and we’re calling on the United Nations to create some form of collective security to protect small states,”

President Granger said yesterday at the Yale Club.

The President pointed out that Venezuela’s population and military might is 40-times that of Guyana’s and so for it to be secure, protection is needed. At the time of Guyana’s independence from the British Empire five decades ago, Venezuela launched a challenge to the legally binding international arbitration award which settled the country’s borders. At the time of the award, the President pointed out, Venezuela was awarded 13, 000 square kilometers of Guyana’s territory.

In the 50 years since the claim was made that the arbitration award is null and void, Guyana has accused Venezuela of repeated Continued on page 3

Cop killed by junkie laid to rest

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday September 29, 2015

Difficult, tense …Maduro says of meeting with Granger

VENEZUELAN President Nicolas Maduro has described his meeting with President David Granger on Sunday as difficult and tense, even as he committed himself to restoring normal diplomatic relations with Guyana following the United Nations-brokered conference.

In a news release on the Venezuela Foreign Ministry’s website Maduro is reported as saying that the meeting was "tense and difficult" but, in order to move towards the path of peace diplomatic relations were restored. He reported that the General Secretary of the UN, Ban KiMoon established a special technical committee which will visit Venezuela in the context of the Geneva Accord for a comprehensive work on the circumstances and the current situation of the Venezuelan claim on Guyana Essequibo. "The SecretaryGeneral is committed after that visit, to do a study of all the options that give us the Geneva Agreement and Article 33 of the UN Charter.

Venezuela has insisted on the need to activate the

Good Offices which it is the final decision of consensus between Guyana, Venezuela and the Geneva Agreement and the General Secretariat.

"Our peoples are destined to the brotherhood, to approach, we love the brotherly people of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana," said Venezuelan President who reiterated that it was agreed "to work together because there is no other way forward" for he said to his Guyanese pair: "let us look in the eyes, talk, let's talk."

"In the case of Venezuela we will be returning our ambassador immediately to the Co-operative Republic of Guyana," Maduro said after the meeting. He also agreed to accredit Guyana’s new Ambassador to Caracas Cheryl Miles. “Venezuela has been calling publicly and in the meeting for dialogue between the two sides. What the President David Granger pointed out to them is that if you want dialogue, then you expect to put in place the mechanisms for dialogue, which are the Ambassadors,” Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge said.

During the meeting, President Granger did not directly address his concerns to Maduro but to the UN Secretary General. President

discussions will take place,” Minister Greenidge.

Maduro recalled Ambassador Reina Margarita Arratia Diaz from

told reporters that during their meeting with the UN Secretary General, Maduro provided no evidence to back up his claim that the award is

The moment when Mr. Ban Ki-moon reached out to join hands with Presidents Granger and Maduro Granger had insisted that he was not having a bilateral meeting with Maduro; rather, he was meeting with UN Secretary General “in the presence” of Maduro.

For the press, the two Presidents did not shake hands, but the UN Secretary General tried to ease the tension by joining their hands together for a photo.

The Venezuelan President described the meeting as “tense and difficult” and Guyana’s Foreign Minister described the mood of the meeting as “sombre” and “serious.” “We can speak to Venezuela anytime, and once the Ambassadors are in place, normal diplomatic

Georgetown in July when he wanted American oil firm ExxonMobil to halt its exploration for oil and leave the area. The Venezuelan government contends that the 1899 Arbitral Award that settled the countries’ borders is null and void, and an agreement signed in Geneva in 1966, gave the UN Secretary General the mandate to resolve the claim. President Granger

null and void. “ T h e Ve n e z u e l a n s were unable to provide any evidence that the 1899 award was void, that it was null. “We, on our side, the Guyana side, we felt that the controversy was essentially a legal one and we asked for a legal solution. “So the Venezuelans really had no case,” President Granger said.

Maduro agreed to accept a UN team to investigate its

claim that the award is null and void, but he wants a continuation of the UN Good Offices process, in which the Secretary General appoints a mediator to determine a settlement of the issue.

But Guyana is fed up with the Good Offices process, with President Granger saying that after 50 years and successive Good Offices, the controversy remains unsettled. The President believes the time is over for that process and it is now time for a legal settlement at the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

“We took the opportunity to reiterate that we must have a juridical settlement; it’s a legal problem, there must be a legal solution,” President Granger said after the meeting last evening.

Minister Greenidge said that in the 50 years of the Good Offices process, the UN has not addressed the central point of the Geneva agreement, namely Venezuela’s claim that the 1899 award is null and void. “None of the work of the UN has addressed that problem,” Minister Greenidge said, pointing out that in dealing with an internationally accepted legal decision (the arbitral award), “evidence needs to be presented.”

PPP expects Pres Granger to brief nation on UN meeting with Maduro PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Clement Rohee is expecting President David Granger to host a press conference upon his return to brief the nation pertaining to his meeting with Venezuela’s Head of State Nicolas Maduro at the UN headquarters on Sunday.

This sentiment was noted after Rohee at yesterday's press conference at Freedom House, Robb Street Georgetown shied away from answering questions pertaining to the party’s perspective on the Venezuela saga and the UN meeting. “I would prefer the President upon his return to Guyana to

report to the nation with the Foreign Affairs Minister at his side and to tell us exactly

PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee what took place at the UN,”

Rohee posited. “I won’t want to comment on anything that took place in New York at the UNGA or anything related to that, let us wait until the President returns and makes a public statement.”

Rohee further said he was not prepared to trust the media reports on the meeting; instead he would await the President’s return before giving any comments.

Granger and Maduro met on Sunday night in the Office of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon at the UN headquarters in New York.

T h e p a r t y l e a d e r, Bharrat Jagdeo last week refused to comment on Venezuela sending troops at the border with Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday September 29, 2015

No ‘watering down’ ...

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- Granger vows despite Maduro’s agreements

From page 1 acts of aggression; the worst was seen on May 26th this year when the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro issued a decree that sought to annex the country’s maritime space, including where American oil firm ExxonMobil reported a significant oil find.

“It is impossible for all the small states which have come into being with the collapse of the old empires to protect their own territorial and other forms of security. “So what we’re asking the United Nations to do is to fulfill its mandate to protect small states,” President Granger said. Apart from the May 26th decree, Guyanese authorities this month said Venezuela built up a heavy military presence on the western frontier of Guyana, and even sailed into the Cuyuni River. On Sunday, the President met with the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon in the presence of the Venezuela President.

During the meeting, the Venezuelan President agreed to restore normal diplomatic relations with Guyana after he withdrew his ambassador and refused to accredit the new Guyanese ambassador to Caracas.

Maduro also agreed to accept a UN investigative team to examine its claim that the 1899 arbitral

award is null and void.

“I felt it was a good step forward; I felt that we’re in a better place now than we were a month or two ago in Guyana-Venezuela relations.” But President Granger is not taking Maduro’s word for granted and so his speech today will not be significantly different from what he planned to say before Sunday’s meeting. “The developments on Sunday night were very small and tentative. “I appreciate that we’ve moved forward, but Venezuela still maintains its territorial claim on Guyana.

“Venezuela has used armed force on Guyana and so I don’t regard the matter as being settled.

So regardless of what was discussed [Sunday] night, I feel the United Nations still has a role to play. “ We w a n t a p e r m a n e n t solution, we want peace,” the President stated.

O n t h e m a rg i n s o f t h e United Nations General Assembly, the President has been meeting with world leaders to apprise them of the border controversy. One of those leaders was Juan Manuel

Santos, the President of C o l o m b i a . Ve n e z u e l a has also laid claim to C o l o m b i a n t e r r i t o r y.

The President said that he is interested in South America solidarity and integration.

President David Granger meets Dr Ernesto Pizano, Secretary General of the Union of South American nations

President David Granger meets Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos

“I am on the brink of deepening relations with the continent of South America, and Colombia is a very important player,” the President stated.

The President yesterday met with Dr Ernesto P i z a n o , t h e S e c re t a r y General of the Union of South American nations (UNASUR) to update him on the outcome of his meeting with the UN Secretary General a n d M a d u ro . H e s a i d

that although UNASUR does not have a role in the current matter with Venezuela, he wanted to keep the Secretary General abreast with what was happening, “because the relations between Guyana and Venezuela tended to be rocky especially since the May 26 decree, and we don’t want the territorial problem to contaminate the other relationships which we have with South American states.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Divisions on Syria laid bare at UN

(BBC) - DIVISIONS among world leaders on resolving the war in Syria have been laid bare in speeches at the UN General Assembly currently being held in New York.

The U.S. and France insisted Syria’s President

Bashar al-Assad must go, but Russia said it would be an “enormous mistake” not to work with him to tackle Islamic State (IS) militants.

The U.S. and Russia hinted at compromise. Barack Obama said he would work with any nation, and Vladi-

mir Putin called for a “broad coalition”. In his speech, Mr Obama said compromise among powers would be essential to ending the Syrian conflict, which has claimed more than 200,000 lives and forced four million to flee abroad. “Lasting stability

can only take hold when the people of Syria forge an agreement to live together peacefully,” he said.

“The U.S. is prepared to work with any nation, including Russia and Iran, to resolve the conflict. But we must recognise that there cannot be, after so much bloodshed, so much carnage, a return to the pre-war status quo.”

Speaking soon after, Mr Putin said it was an “enormous mistake to refuse to cooperate with the Syrian government and its armed forces who are valiantly fighting terrorism face-toface”.

He also called for the creation of a “broad anti-terror coalition” to fight IS, comparing it to the international forces that fought against Nazi Germany in World War Two.

Argentine family drove 13,000 miles to see Pope

PHILADELPHIA (CNN): THE Walker family from Argentina travelled 13,000 miles in a remodeled Volkswagen bus to be in Philadelphia, United States for the papal visit. Never in their wildest dreams did they imagine they would actually meet the Pope.

But on Sunday, their phone rang at 6 a.m. It was the Vatican calling.

Pope Francis had taken notice of his fellow citizens from Buenos Aires and their 194-day journey through 13 countries. He decided to take the time to meet with Catire Walker, 41, his wife Noel Zemborain, 39, and their four children, ages 3 to 12.

Walker said chaos ensued after the Vatican called and told them to head to the Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary. The six of them scrambled to get ready as fast as they could. When they arrived, still incredulous, they were told to wait in a hall.

Within five minutes, they were standing before Pope Francis.

“Are you the family who travelled from Buenos Aires?

You’re crazy,” the Pope said, laughing.

At the port in Cartagena, Colombia, the Walkers had to empty the bus so that authorities could conduct a drug search.

A ‘crazy’ journey to see the Pope

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Brazil pledges to slash greenhouse gas emissions

- but will count old reductions

BY MARCELO TEIXEIRA

(REUTERS) BRAZIL pledged on Sunday to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 43 percent by 2030 as its contribution to a United Nations climate agreement, but said it will include reductions from past efforts against deforestation to help it reach the target.

President Dilma Rousseff presented the country’s pledges during a speech at the UN General Assembly in New York, saying that the targets, based on a reference year of 2005, are more ambitious than those of most developed countries.

Countries are submitting pledges to cut emissions ahead of global climate talks in Paris later this year. So far, those pledges are estimated to limit warming to 3 degrees Celsius. Scientists say global warming needs to be limited to 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) to avoid devastating droughts and rising sea levels.

Rousseff reaffirmed the country’s commitment to ending illegal deforestation

in the Amazon, as stated during a joint announcement with U.S. President Barack Obama in June, but fell short of declaring a total freeze on deforestation as many environmental groups had sought.

Estimates from leading researchers on land use change in Brazil indicate legal deforestation could still be carried out in an area of around 100 million hectares, equivalent to the size of Colombia.

Brazil also pledged to offset emissions coming from regulated deforestation, but has not provided details.

“Brazil is one of a few developing countries to commit to an absolute emissions reduction target,” Rousseff said at the UN “We have one of the world’s largest populations and GDP, and our targets are as ambitious or more ambitious than those of developed countries,” she said.

Deforestation worldwide accounts for 15 percent of global heat-trapping gases, or the equivalent of what is emitted by the world’s entire transport sector. Brazil has

Dilma Rousseff, President of Brazil addresses a plenary meeting of the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit 2015 at the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan, New York September 27, 2015. (REUTERS/MIKE SEGAR photo) the largest untouched rainforest in the world.

Brazil also plans to reduce emissions by increasing the share of renewables (excluding large hydroelectrics) in power generation to 23 percent by 2030 from 15 percent currently.

Although Brazil’s target is one of the largest announced by any country so far, the fact that it takes into account huge emissions cuts from the last decade might make it insufficient to prevent a global temperature increase of more than 2 degrees Celsius. A network of NGOs in Brazil called Climate Observatory had asked for a reference year of at least 2010 for the country’s goals, to signal a renewed effort.

According to SEEG, an independent emissions measuring system, Brazil’s greenhouse gases had already fallen 33 percent from 2005 to 2013 due to successful policies to repress illegal deforestation.

“It’s significant that Brazil, among the world’s largest emitters, has the largest reduction target. But it is insufficient considering the potential the country has to do more,” said Carlos Rittl, head of Climate Observatory.

Panama murder rate drops by 21% (BBC) PANAMA’S murder rate has dropped by 21.4% in the first nine months of 2015 compared to the same period last year, official figures suggest.

In Colon, Panama’s most murderous city last year, the number of homicides more than halved, according to figures by the security ministry.

Officials say a programme to rehabilitate gang members has been key in driving the figure down.

But a poll suggests the perception of insecurity in Panama remains high.

Panama does not have as serious a gang problem as other Central American nations such as Honduras and El Salvador.

But Panamanian gangs are believed to be behind the majority of the murders committed in recent years and also play a key part in drug trafficking.

Security Minister Rodolfo Aguilera says a programme offering gang members an amnesty and vocational training to lure them away from crime has been instrumental in reducing homicides in 2015.

He says that across Panama, 100 fewer people were killed between January and September of this year than in the same period in 2014.

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Guyana

Resistance to Indentureship:

The Devonshire Castle strike and riots of 1872 and our earliest Indentured Martyrs

By Tota C. Mangar

EDITORIAL Cleaning up EDITORIAL

Georgetown

THE public campaign to clean up Guyana’s capital, Georgetown, continues apace, although much smaller numbers of volunteers are seen these days. This was expected, as public response to events like these is hardly sustained through volunteerism in this country. The post-election fever and enthusiasm to clean up Georgetown is slowly dying, and now the real task is left with the people who are responsible for maintaining the city -- the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown.

Notorious for their negligence, this would seem a formidable task for them, but one can hardly fault their efforts thus far. Daily, workers are seen across Georgetown excavating drains that had for years been clogged under a previous dispensation. Alleyways that were once impassable can now be accessed by residents, and a much cleaner and healthier environment is emerging in the city.

It is against this background that we support recent efforts by the M&CC to remove vendors who were plying their trade in front of the old Bedford Building at Bourda Square. Aside from the risks the rundown building posed to the lives of those hardy vendors, the scene outside of that facility was chaotic.

The challenge now for the council is to seek out similar areas across the city and return some level of order into the capital. The M&CC must not falter hereon, and must defy any attempts to sabotage its efforts, be it from roadside vendors or politicians -- some of whom would rather Georgetown be brushed aside as the “Garbage City” rather than the Garden City.

Our citizens must also support these efforts to maintain a clean Georgetown by disposing of their wastes in a responsible manner. Only then can we really return the city to its former days as a major tourist destination, with its attractions ranging from the historical Stabroek Market to the St George’s Cathedral.

Only recently, President David Granger was quoted in this newspaper acknowledging that while the re-greening of Georgetown has been gaining momentum, “City Hall has to tackle the problem of solid waste, tackle the problems of litter, tackle the problem of destruction of trees and parapets and vegetation, and the parking of vehicles helter-shelter in the city.”

The President said he wants to see more controlled vegetation; the parks being restored: the National Parks, the Parade Ground, the Promenade Gardens, Botanical Gardens. “We want to see a re-greening of Georgetown, and we want to take this message to other places — Bartica, Mahdia, Lethem, Mabaruma. We want to see Guyana greening again. It is not just cleaning, but making Guyana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

TODAY, 29th September, 2015 marks the 143rd Anniversary of the Devonshire Castle Strike and Riots of 1872, an event in Guyana’s history which unfortunately was for a long time not given the prominence it so richly deserves. As a consequence not many in Guyana and the world at large are fully conscious of this highly significant historical event. Indeed, they are more familiar with the Enmore Strike of 1948 and Enmore Martyrs Day because of its recency and more widespread publicity and observances.

Within recent years however, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (now Department of Culture, Youth and Sports) and the administration of Region 2 and other related agencies have been making strenuous efforts to highlight this event and its importance largely through their annual commemorative activity at the monument site, Devonshire Castle on the Essequibo Coast.

BACKGROUND The importation of indentured labourers from the Indian sub-continent was part of the continuing search for a reliable labour force to meet the needs of the sugar industry and the powerful plantocracy following the abolition of slavery and the termination of the apprenticeship system in the 1830s. The system of Indian indentureship could be characterized as one of intense struggle, supreme sacrifice

and persistent resistance. It was closely linked to slavery. This was certainly the view of prominent historians Hugh Tinker, Dr. Walter Rodney, Dr. Basdeo Mangru and Chief Justice in the second half of the nineteenth century, Charles Beaumont.

In the colony indentured labourers had to endure the critical period of ‘seasoning’ or adjusting to their new environment. This was no easy task and many found themselves introduced to plantation labour very quickly after their arrival here. On the estates the indentured labourers experienced the harshness of the system and it was obvious that the powerful plantocracy had effective control of the immigrant labour force which they exploited to the maximum.

An important aspect of this control was the contract under which the immigrant was recruited from his homeland.

While it stipulated the obligations of the labourer and the employer, the labour laws weighed heavily against the former.

The implementation of the labour laws and the period of industrial residence were taking place thousand of miles from the labourer’s homeland and in a social and political environment dominated by the employer. It was not surprising therefore, that laws were easily varied and very often abused by the plantocracy to suit their “whims and fancies”. Of added significance was the fact that some Immigration Agent Generals and Stipendiary Magistrates tended to side with the planter class and as a result cases of intim-

more environmentally-friendly as well,” the President was quoted as saying.

There is therefore no ambiguity in the administration’s message and its challenge to the City Council. To keep the city clean and green will have to be the job of City Hall, and it cannot be like under the previous administration, when the council was forced to beg for funds and a mega cleanup drive was sponsored and run by central government. In fact, President Granger was clear in saying: “To keep the city green will be maintained largely by the City Council”, pointing out that the once sordid state of Georgetown was the product of a cold war between the PPP Government and the municipal authorities.

“We feel the cold war is now ended. We now have a Town Clerk who is responsive to the needs of the council, the elected council. We’re now moving towards Local Government and Municipal Elections, and we have cordial relations with the City Council. We want to help the City Council to help itself,” the President said. Town Clerk, Mr. Royston King, and his councillors must now take up the commitment made by the President, and work feverishly to restore to Georgetown an image worthy of being called our capital city.

idation, assault and battery were often covered up.

Court trials were often subjected to abuse and were, in many instances reduced to a farce as official interpreters aligned themselves with the plantocracy while the hapless labourers had very little opportunity of defending themselves. Throughout the period of indentureship immigrants were faced with meager wage rates and unrealistic tasks. Weekly earnings depended on the number of tasks completed, the nature of tasks, whether it was weeding, shovelling, manuring, planting or harvesting and the speed with which they were completed. In any event it was the employer or planter who invariably determined the wage rates and whenever there was a fall in sugar prices immigrants found their wages minimised.

The immigrants often went before the courts as victims of the harsh labour laws and the legal system of the day. The planter had at his disposal several instruments of prosecution. He could prosecute for refusal to commence work, or work left unfinished, absenteeism without authority, disorderly or threatening behaviour or even neglect. Punishment resulted in imprisonment or fines. Moreover, an immigrant imprisoned for misconduct could have his indenture extended to include the period in jail. This meant that the immigrant was effectively punished twice for the same offence.

Immigrants also suffered from a paucity of social amenities. The tenement ranges or ‘logies’ were small, overcrowded and unventilated, potable water was virtually non-existent and medical facilities and sanitation were poor. As a result outbreak of diseases tended to assume epidemic proportions.

Through vagrancy laws immigrants had their movements restricted. This was an integral part of planters’ strategy to localise labour and to place restraints on workers’ liberty. It was because of their vast powers of control over the indentured labourers that planters became increasingly arrogant.

Some openly and repeatedly boasted that the labourers on

their estate should only be “at work, or in hospital or in goal,” One Demerara planter publicly stated “give me my heart’s desires in coolies and I will make you a million hogsheads of sugar”.

It was not surprising that from the 1860s onwards the myth of Indian docility on the plantations was seriously challenged as the labourers began to openly defy the system. There was a steady deterioration of industrial relations, increasing working class protests and imperial investigation. Violent eruptions were occasioned by many specific and localised grievances such as overbearing behaviour of managers, wage rates disputes, disagreement over tasks, sexual exploitation of women by overseers and the arbitrary reduction of labourers’ wages. In 1868 the Royal Gazette reported that “hundreds perhaps thousands, who would now work on the sugar estates cannot find employment.” Further by 1869, the price paid for cutting canes to make one hogshead of sugar was only half of what it was in 1854.

Signs of mounting discontent and assertiveness among the workers were evidenced through pulling down of fences, vandalism of equipment and implements and various other destructive acts including arson to crops and building. Of a more confrontational nature was the tendency to refuse work, demand concessions, reject orders, threaten whites and ever so often reacting to violence.

The first major disturbance and strike took place at Plantation Leonora, West Coast Demerara in 1869 and this was followed by violence on Plantations Hague, Uitvlugt, Mon Repos, Non –Pariel, Zeelugt and Vergenoegen during the next two years. Of significance around this time was also the lengthy letter of Stipendiary Magistrate George William Des Voeux to the Secretary of State for the Colonies in which he complained bitterly about the depressing conditions and numerous abuses facing immigrants.

These complaints led to the appointment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry which investigated living and working conditions in the British West Indies. (to be continued)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

DIPCON owes workers $5M in severance pay

…Broomes brokers deal for settlement

By Ariana Gordon

DIPCON Engineering Services Limited has entered into an agreement with the Ministry of Social Protection, Labour Occupational Safety and Health Department, to pay retrenched workers some $5M over the next three months.

The agreement, signed yesterday, came on the heels of complaints made by some twenty-four employees of the company over the past few months for the non-payment of severance money.

Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection Simona Broomes met with two representatives of the company and six aggrieved workers at the ministry’s boardroom yesterday morning.

The minister said following complaints by several workers, Dipcon Engineering was invited to a meeting where it was revealed that the company has some financial troubles.

PAYMENT PLAN Notwithstanding those issues, the minister made it

clear that the workers must be paid. On Friday last, the ministry and the engineering company agreed upon a payment plan that would see workers receiving payments commencing October 9 and concluding December 4.

“We have arrived at a decision in terms of payment…Payment will commence on the 9th October and payments will be made through November and December. The payments will be made at this ministry,” said Broomes.

The minister noted that

Minister within the Ministry of Labour Simona Broomes addresses the concerns of DIPCON workers as representatives from the ministry and DIPCON look on

she understands the frustration of the workers but asked them to exercise patience. “I understand that you don’t want part payments but the first payment will be just over $1M… we have a list, and we are going to call you…you don’t have to come, we are going to call you to come here to receive your money,” she told the workers who are eager to receive their monies.

Broomes expressed regret that Dipcon is not in a position to “bring all the money at one time” but said the company has committed to bringing payments to the ministry as they receive same even if it is before the scheduled date of October 9.

“If the company gets money before the 9th, the

money would be released before… we will call you… this is something I inherited, and I regret this but you will be paid,” she said.

The Social Protection Minister stressed that it is her responsibility to ensure that Dipcon fulfills its obligation to the workers. “You must be paid, I regret not having money to pay you now,” Broomes stated sympathetically.

NOT PLEASED But even after the minister assured the workers that they will be paid, the workers were not entirely satisfied.

One employee, Talesh Narine said he was laid off at the end of June this year and Dipcon owes him a substantial amount of money. According

to Narine, he is owed salary for the month of June, severance and leave passage.

“I have to pay the bank… they have a little over $1M for me… How can I get that money?” he asked Minister Broomes. The frustrated Narine said he has a family to maintain and can ill afford to be without his much-needed finances. He was advised by the minister of other methods that can be employed to retrieve his money if he cannot wait.

“The method of the law is always there,” Broomes said, noting that she too is not pleased. “I am not happy that you are not paid… not at all… the company knows that.” She said that the current administration please see page 8

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Commonwealth backs Guyana against Venezuela’s aggression …says judicial settlement must be urgently pursued

THE Foreign Affairs Ministers of the 53-nation Commonwealth group on Monday issued a joint statement in support of the Government of Guyana over its territorial controversy with Venezuela.

The pledge of “unequivocal and collective support”, which follows a statement

issued by the Commonwealth Secretary-General on 27 June, was made following the 14th annual meeting of Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers (CFAMM) in New York on 24 September.

“The Commonwealth Ministerial Group on Guyana today reiterated the unequivocal and collective support

of Commonwealth member governments for the maintenance and preservation of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial borders, in accordance with the 1899 Arbitral Award, the upholding of the rule of international law, and the resolution of conflict and differences by peaceful means.”

DIPCON owes workers...

from see page 7

is policy driven and will not allow any contractor to take advantage of workers.

“We will move to have such contractors blacklisted,” she added.

“We need to get our families fed… I owe the bank, what do I do? Minister, can you make an agreement with the bank for me?” Narine quizzed Minster Broomes who immediately said that his agreement with the banking institution is a private one and she cannot get involved there.

“You can take private action but you cannot ask me to make arrangements at the bank… I don’t have an arrangement at the bank,” Minister Broomes said affirmatively.

The minister informed the gathering of workers that it was her ministry that called them for a meeting and it shows that she has their interest at heart. “I called the company… you did not come to me… it tells me that people are in trouble… I started negotiating without you,” she said.

Meanwhile, another aggrieved worker, Eon Sancho said he will be leaving the country shortly and wishes to receive his money before he departs. He is owed $72,267.

Over the past few months, Sancho has found himself petitioning the relevant authorities as well as President David Granger on the matter.

“I am leaving on Friday… is it fair to wait until I return to receive my money… I was the first person to complain in May, then in June again,” said Sancho.

He too was assured of his money though it is unclear when within the three-month period it would be received.

Garry Westford, a resi-

dent of Essequibo explained that the current arrangement only covers fortnightly workers. He told the minister that his name was not on the list presented to the Ministry of Social Protection. According to Westford, he was “reliably informed” that Dipcon received payment from the Ministry of Agriculture for work done on the Hope Canal. This, however, was not confirmed.

“Daily and fortnightly workers are a small percent… what happens to monthly workers?” he asked.

However, a representative from Dipcon said that several checks were made with the Ministry of Agriculture and Surendra Singh of Surendra Engineering Company but was told the matter has since been directed to the Ministry of Finance. “My boss went to the CEO of NDIA… to get the outcome and was told that the matter has to go to the Ministry of Finance,” the representative stated.

While the minister remains positive that all payments will be concluded by December 4, 2015, Westford is not. “I don’t see where the money is coming from to pay workers over the next three months,” he said.

NON-PAYMENT OF TAXES, NIS Security Guard, Mohamed Ishmile said he works 12 hours every day but is only paid for two and a half hours. He sought some recourse from the ministry as he felt it was unfair to him and other security guards employed by Dipcon.

Minister Brooms in response said “no person should be working more than eight hours each day… the law says you work four hours, you take one hour for lunch and then you work the

remaining four hours, anything over the eight hours, you must be paid for.”

NIS & PAYE DEDUCTIONS Meanwhile, Sancho said that National Insurance Scheme (NIS) contributions along with Pay-as-You-earn (PAYE) taxes have not been paid to the relevant institutions. His statement was seconded by his colleagues.

“Contractors cannot continue to work here and not pay NIS and taxes for workers… but those are being deducted.

That is fraud and they should be jailed,” she stated empathically.

The workers expressed reluctance to collect cheques from the company, noting that in the past they experienced bounced cheques.

Dipcon Engineering Services Ltd. touts itself as a “premier regional indigenous general construction firm in the Caribbean” that was founded in 1980.

“We have been successfully constructing roads, highways, bridges and infrastructural developments throughout the Caribbean.

Our clients have been mainly governmental but private developers and competing contractors have built long-lasting relationships with us. The company has been involved in some of the Caribbean’s biggest road projects,” the company’s website stated.

In Guyana, Dipcon Engineering was awarded a contract to work on Phase One of the four-lane extension from Providence to Covent Garden. The company was also contracted to work on a section of the East Coast Demerara highway for the four-lane continuation up to Mon Repos and the $3.6B Hope/ Dochfour Canal.

The group met in New York on Thursday last. The meeting was convened by the Secretary-General following a request from the Government of Guyana, and chaired by Senator the Hon Arnold Nicholson Foreign Minister of Jamaica. The group received an update from Vice President and Foreign Minister of Guyana Carl Greenidge, on recent developments in the ongoing controversy that was brought about by the Venezuelan contention that the Arbitral Award of 1899 is null and void and which Commonwealth member governments have followed closely since

1999.

The group, in particular, noted and shared the concerns of Guyana over Venezuela’s Presidential Decree 1859 and Decree 1787, which were viewed as a threat to the territorial integrity of Guyana, the statement read.

The group also received with serious concern reports from Guyana regarding recent military activities of Venezuela along the border between the two countries and within the established marine areas of Guyana, leading to heightened tensions at the border. “The group noted and commended the statements issued by the Commonwealth Secretary-General on 27 June 2015, and by CARICOM

Heads of Government on 7 July 2015. The group further noted and welcomed the efforts by the United Nations Secretary-General to facilitate a solution to the controversy between the two countries. The importance of keeping open diplomatic channels and engaging in dialogue was reiterated.”

The group noted Guyana’s preference that resort to the International Court of Justice to bring finality to the contention of the invalidity of the Arbitral Award should be urgently pursued. The group also agreed to draw its concerns to the attention of all 53 Commonwealth Heads of Government.

Plantain, banana farmers coursed in BSD management EXTENSION officers of the Ministry of Agriculture and plantain and banana farmers are, as of yesterday, being taught how to better manage the dreaded black sigatoka disease.

The two-week workshop, titled “Integrated Disease Management of Black Sigatoka Disease (BSD)”, is being hosted by the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

It is being held at the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI), on Agriculture Road, Mon Repos, and facilitated by plant pathologist Dr. Robert Power, who has extensive experience in managing BSD in commercial banana production for export to Europe.

BSD, as it is known, reduces the leaf surface area of the plantain and banana plants which in turn affects their photosynthetic ability, consequently leading to a reduction in the size and weight of the fruit and bunches by as much as 35-50%.

The fungal disease also leads to early and uneven ripening of the fruit, as well

as poor growth of the suckers which spring up around the main plant and replace it when it fruits and dies.

A MAIN CONSTRAINT BSD is a main constraint to banana and plantain production. The economic losses inflicted on farmers is significant.

Approximately 97% of all banana and plantain varieties grown in the Caribbean are susceptible to BSD. It was first detected in the Region in 1991 and by 2012 it was recorded in all the banana and plantain producing countries in the Caribbean, where it has been responsible for a drastic decline in production.

The training workshop is seeking to strengthen the capacity of BSD management teams in the Ministry of Agriculture and banana and plantain organisations, extension officers and farmers in Guyana.

Dr. Power, CARDI said, will utilise a combination of classroom, laboratory and field sessions to deliver a dynamic programme to participants. It will focus on the phyto-pathological cycle of

the disease, epidemiology, integrated disease management, climatic forecasting methods and measuring disease intensity with a view towards developing and sustaining robust detection, monitoring and management strategies for Guyana.

This capacity-building workshop is one of three actions taking place under the CARDI-CDB funded project, “Development of an Integrated Disease Management Programme for Black Sigatoka Disease” in Guyana, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and St. Lucia.

The other two are the development of an integrated disease management (IDM) plan for BSD and the introduction and evaluation of BSD tolerant varieties.

It is envisioned that these three actions will work together synergistically to significantly improve disease management, resulting in higher yields for farmers.

Bananas are an important commodity for the Region’s small farmers as they are a source of employment, income and food security.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday September 29, 2015

Motion filed for repossession of Pradoville 1 & 2

By George Barclay A GROUP calling itself the Committee for the Defence of the Constitution Inc. and Desmond Trotman on Monday moved to the court by way of an originating notice of motion to repossess lands they alleged have been fraudulently developed at Plantations Goedverwagting and Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara better known as Pradoville 1 and 2 respectively.

The originating motion accused the Bharrat Jagdeo government which ended in 2011 of hijacking lands that were “covertly conceived” to develop through the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) without Parliamentary knowledge or approval for selective housing purposes in 2010.

The applicants sought a declaration by the Court that the decision by Cabinet to

authorise NICIL to approve the transformation of the state lands located at parcel 237 into 238 to Plantation Goedverwagting and parcel 172 into parcels 173 to 196 Plantation Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara without authorisation and approval of Parliament, the Central Housing and Planning Authority and other relevant statutory authorities is arbitrary, unconstitutional, unlawful, ultra vires, null and void, abinito, and of no legal effect.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e applicants are seeking a declaration that the “s urreptitious sale and transfer of the said fully developed parcels of State lands by the executive at undervalued prices for parcels to ministers of the government, government officials , friends and cronies of the People’s Progressive Party without any recourse to a valuation or tender procedure or an invitation to

the public that such lands are for sale is a wrongful and unlawful grant of facilities and benefits, a brazen and flagrant infringement of the

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo applicants and the citizens’ right to equality before the law” representing a violation of Article 149 D of the Constitution.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e applicants requested a declaration that the

purported conferment of benefits and facilities

by Cabinet ministers and administrative actions of State on the purported purchasers of parcels of the said State lands to acquire titles for the said lands located at Plaisance and Goedverwagting is arbitrary, unconstitutional, unlawful, unreasonable and an abuse of power by the Executive.

The applicants believe that the holders of each parcel “have been accorded privileges or advantages

by Cabinet ministers and administrative actions of the titles for State lands” located at Plaisance and Goedverwagting.

The applicants have also prayed that the court sets aside the purported sale and transfer to the “putative owners” of the identified lands. The declaration also requested that the court rule that the said properties be vested forthwith in the

Minister of Finance on behalf of the State.

Likewise, a conservatory order under Article 153 of the Constitution prohibiting the Registrar of Lands from Registering or transferring in any form or manner encumbering any of the parcels of land has been requested. Pursuant to Article 153 of the Constitution, the Court can make orders, issue writs, give directions as it deems fit for the purpose of enforcing and securing the enforcement on behalf of the applicants and the Citizens of Guyana.

MASSIVE EXPENDITURE The applicants argued that the project involved an expenditure of hundreds of millions of dollars to develop the lands, to construct roads and drains, install water mains, electrical lines and remove a 300 feet state owned broadcasting tower and install same at Parfaite

H a r m o n i e , We s t B a n k Demerara.

A c c o r d i n g l y, t h e applicants state that money was not authorised

by Parliament for the development of the lands and as a result, they believe that former Minister of Finance, Ashni Singh wrongfully and unlawfully authorised NICIL to take money collected by government corporations such as the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), The Guyana Oil Company (GUYOIL) and the GFC to undertake such a venture.

The applicants argued that the money collected should have been paid into the Consolidated Fund as is mandated by Article 216 of the Constitution.

The Originating Notice of Motion was issued by Rex H. Mc Kay S.C., Neil Boston, Bettina Glasford and Brenden Glasford for the Applicants.

First review of zoning laws expected in December - Patterson

By Ravin Singh ONE of the concerns in the social spectrum here is the issue of commercial enterprises that are not adhering to zoning laws and in traditional residential areas the deviations have been spiralling out of control.

For instance, in the Alberttown ward in Georgetown, designated by law as a residential area, commercial enterprises including Bish and Sons, Atlantic Star Cable Company and Cheddi Jagan Dental Centre are among the many businesses within this area.

To combat this issue, however, the first review of these archaic zoning laws is expected to be done in December this year, and a task force is already assessing the situation.

This highly anticipated disclosure was made by Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle.

The laws were formulated in 1946 and have not been amended since, though there has been evident nonconformity with them over the years.

But according to Minister Patterson, work has already commenced in this area, through the efforts of the Georgetown City Hall, which is currently having illegal drainage structures removed in commercial areas around the city.

He stated that the target will first be to have these minor structures removed, after which the commercial enterprises will be tackled.

Noting that “there will be a comprehensive review of the laws by December,” which will seek to aid in the long-term survival of the country, the minister explained that contributions in this regard will not be limited to the Infrastructure Ministry.

Rather, the review will be done through a collaborative effort by the Infrastructure

Ministry, City Hall, Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) and the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) across the country.

RELOCATION POSSIBILITY As it relates to the current

applicable, Patterson said that “tough decisions” will be made in that regard, as the possibility of relocation looms.

The relocation of these commercial enterprises, he said, will be an attempt at keeping in tune with a National Plan which is to “take Guyana up three

A fire at Ogle ravaged Beepat’s storage bond back in 2013 and a neighbour’s house.) violators of the existing zoning laws, which are still

notches,” he said.

“We have to make some

tough decisions and the tough decisions will be for the betterment of the country. We can’t allow the transgression of people who did what they did, because there is no enforcement to respect the growth and development of the country,” Patterson told this publication.

Meanwhile, enterprises including Chinese shops and retail stores existing within residential areas have posed environmental problems for citizens living within the vicinity.

Improper solid waste management and the emission of hazardous gases from these businesses are just two areas in which they pose environmental threats to citizens.

Meanwhile, speaking with this publication recently, Darshanie Sookhoo of Station Street, Kitty lamented that the existence of multiple ‘rum-shops’ throughout the street has threatened the rights of residents to live peacefully.

She disclosed that not only

does the loud music emanating from these shops pose a problem, but a stigma has been attached to the environment given the countless verbal and physical assaults which occur frequently due to alcohol consumption.

“It is heartrending to have children grow up in this environment…

Sometimes my children are prevented from studying because of the loud music and noise coming from these rum-shops,” the mother of three bemoaned.

In light of this, she seized the opportunity to call on the relevant authorities to examine these prevailing conditions which contribute to domestic unrest and routinely threaten the peacefulness of domestic life.

A n d w h i l e infrastructure is playing a major role in enhancing the economic wellbeing of Guyanese, deviations from zoning laws have been posing significant social and environmental threats to citizens.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday September 29, 2015

Patterson: Port Georgetown undergoing modernisation - new ferry to ply Parika, North West District route

PLANS already being implemented to upgrade and modernise Port Georgetown and dredge the Demerara Navigational Channel will, in the short-term, reduce the high charges shippers have been paying to transport goods in small quantities in and out of Guyana because of the shallow draught of the channel.

This is heartening news for owners of both small and large cargo vessels and shipping terminals in Port Georgetown, Berbice and Essequibo, as well as bulk exporters and others who use the main rivers for transportation purposes.

According to Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson, a brand new dredger will be purchased to dredge and maintain the channel, rivers and creeks. The deepening of these rivers will facilitate in-country movement of lumber, stone, sand, consumer goods and people from the interior regions to the coast.

“No longer will their passengers be delayed while they wait for high tides to sail. They will lose fewer markets as a result of those delays, and the complaints lodged by our value-added wood producers, including sawmillers, joiners and makers of doors, decking, furniture and other products are sure to diminish,” Patterson explained.

Meanwhile, he underscored that plans are afoot for the restructuring and rehabilitation of wharves and stellings.

“A new ferry will be acquired to ply the Parika-North West District route. Already Berbicians have begun to benefit

from the introduction of river launches crossing the Berbice River between Rosignol and New Amsterdam. Parents of school-aged children and the elderly can now cross the river free of cost, and frequent passengers, including students of the University of Guyana’s Tain campus, are saving money by avoiding the high tolls they had been paying to cross the mile-long Berbice Bridge,” Minister Patterson emphasised.

Depending on the outcome of the government’s negotiations with the Berbice Bridge Company, Patterson said another passenger/vehicle ferry may be reintroduced to this crossing after the Rosignol and N/A stellings and gantries are replaced.

PORT MASTER PLAN In addition, he noted that the rehabilitation of the Lighthouse and replacement of navigational lights, buoys and other equipment are on the ministry’s agenda.

The Marine Administration Department (MARAD) has placed on their work programme a number of deep water projects including new harbours and will intensify their training schedules for boat and ferry captains and crews.

This is part of a Port Master Plan that will be implemented in a phased manner for the benefit of both national and international marine traffic.

CHEC in breach of labour, safety rules

TOURISM BOOST This move, Patterson noted, “would also boost the tourism sector and encourage the growth of the arts and craft industry since the deeper draught will allow large cruise ships to berth at Port Georgetown….

“These facilities are extremely important to our local manufacturers and exporters as well. Their products are likely to become more competitive in local and overseas markets. In addition, more Guyanese will be encouraged to establish indigenous valueMinister of Public added enterprises due to less Infrastructure costly and easier access to David Patterson markets in the Caribbean, and farther afield. All sea and river defence works will be consolidated under the ministry’s new Coastal Protection Unit.” (Rabindra Rooplall) CHEC, in 2011, signed a deal with the previous administration for the extension of the CJIA, which saw China’s Exim Bank funding the project to the tune of US$138 million.

– Minister Simona Broomes

CHINA Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) has been negligent in conducting its operations according to local and international standards.

Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Simona Broomes, said investigations done by the Labour Department of the Ministry of Social Protection has determined the foregoing, and has confirmed there is “complete negligence” on the part of CHEC. The minister made this disclosure as she responded to questions on the operation of the CHEC with respect to occupational health and safety matters.

Broomes further disclosed that the CHEC is on the ministry’s agenda. She said the company has been asked to submit a list of workers and, more importantly, a list of Guyanese nationals working with the Chinese company on the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion project at Timehri.

Contractually, CHEC is required “to use nationals and make sure the proportion of the Chinese labour and local nationals will not be less than 6:4”, except where technical skills are concerned.

Questions recently surfaced following an incident at the company’s Timehri site, where one of its engineers -- Liu Li of China – died, while Zhang Yixun, another engineer, was injured at the site of the CJIA expansion project at Timehri, EBD. The 23-year-old Li was doing soil testing in Timehri when he and Yixun were trapped beneath a quantity of soil that caved in on them.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson has requested that an immediate investigation be launched into the September 17 incident, which saw many persons speaking out about the alleged lack of proper safety measures being

employed by the company.

“No risk assessment was done,” said Minister Broomes, who also said that her ministry has an ongoing investigation into the general operation of the company. “It is a nightmare,” said Broomes who believes that foreign companies need to make good on their contractual obligations while taking safety precautions seriously. “We have an investigation going on the general operations and industrial relations aspect [of the company’s operations].”

M o n d a y a f t e r n o o n ’s attempts to contact CHEC’s local manager, Kevin Lieu, on safety measures employed by the company proved futile.

Ministry of Social The Guyana Chronicle has Protection been reliably informed that Simona Broomes the Chinese company has not been taking safety precautions seriously, and many of its workers are consequently inadequately equipped with safety materials such as safety vests, shoes and the like.

This publication understands that the CHEC contract, signed under the former administration, includes the provision of two Health and Safety engineers on site for the duration of the project; one must be employed by CHEC and the other by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

Tuessday September 29th, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Wednesday September 30th, 2015 - 05:00 hrs

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Marriott projects operating profit by year

ATLANTIC Hotel Incorporated (AHI) has revealed that the management of Marriott Hotel is projecting that it will deliver a new operating profit (measured in cash flows) by the end of this year.

This is according to a statement issued last evening by AHI – the owner of the Georgetown Marriott Hotel. In addition to the net profit, management also projects that the existing working capital is adequate to cover all operating expenses and as such the shareholder will not be called upon to inject any funds into the operations of the hotel.

This is supported by the fact that the management of Marriott had reported to the AHI Board of Directors, that for the month of August, the hotel occupancy was 52% representing an average occupancy of over 100 rooms per night for the month.

Preceding this, in July, it was reported that the occupancy of the hotel was 48%. Food and Beverage performance also reportedly exceeded its budget. Seizing the opportunity in its statement, AHI sought to clarify two reports carried by daily print, Kaieteur News; the first, published on Thursday September 24, which was titled “Marriott in danger of defaulting on Republic Bank payments” and another article “Republic Bank now ‘de facto’ owners of Marriott” on Friday September 25.

According to the owner-company, as part of the legal financial arrangements with Republic Bank Limited (RBL), payment on the interest on the debt provided for the construction of the hotel is not due until the end of 2016, and repayment of the principal is not due until 2017.

They further noted that during this period, interest will be capitalised in accordance with the loan agreements. In light of this fact, there is no outstanding payment owed

by AHI/Marriott Hotel to Republic Bank Limited, the statement said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

GuySuCo in recordbreaking production

THE Guyana Sugar Corporation says new records have been set on a number of estates with the industry producing 10,539 tonnes of sugar for week ending September 25, 2015, the highest weekly production since March, 2009.

Skeldon factory has recorded 2,662 tonnes of sugar surpassing its previous highest of 2,502 tonnes which was achieved in October 2012, a release from GuySuCo said. Blairmont factory ground for 156 hours for the week, the highest ever achieved by that location, while Uitvlugt factory produced 1,125 tonnes of sugar, recording its highest weekly production since October, 2010 Skeldon, Albion, Rose Hall and Blairmont Factories have all surpassed their

revised weekly grinding hours of 135, the release added. It said too that Skeldon, Albion, Rose Hall, Blairmont, East Demerara and Uitvlugt Estates have all made significant contribution in ensuring the Corporation surpassed 10,000 tonnes of sugar for the week. “As a result of their individual performance the workers on those locations will each be benefiting from one day weekly production incentive. For the just concluded week, Skeldon Estate supplied the Guyana Power and Light Inc with 1,328,000 KWh of electricity using bagasse fuel. This brings the total power supplied for the year to date to 26,935,000 KWh. As at September 28, 2015 Sugar production for the crop to date is 67,466 tonnes and 148,610 tonnes for the year to date.

Cops recover illegal gun, ammo after chasing down gunman

A POLICE release has said that ranks of a mobile police patrol yesterday chased down and caught a man who had in his possession an unlicensed .38 revolver with six matching rounds, four 9mm rounds and two .32 rounds.

The release said the driver of a motor car was stopped by traffic ranks on Thomas Street Georgetown, but drove away as the police approached him. He was later intercepted by ranks and a search of his vehicle unearthed the illegal cache.

The man has been detained and charges will be made shortly.

Students showcase impressive display of steelpan talent at Botanical Gardens

By Shauna Jemmott

AFTER some years of hosting the National Schools Steelband presentation, the Ministry of Education was on Sunday able, through its Unit of Allied Arts, to offer the public a scintillating display of pan talent at the Botanical Gardens.

According to chairperson La Vonne George, the activity is a special one for the ministry, and is introduced as an annual feature of the Education Month programme.

She said: “It was designed to create a common platform for exhibiting the skills of students in the steelpan art form (and) endeavours to

promote an atmosphere of friendship, love, peace and tolerance among all Guyanese.”

With students decked in gold and black, the ten schools which participated included Dolphin Secondary, North Georgetown Primary, St. Rose’s High, Lodge Secondary, President’s College, The Bishops’ High, West Demerara Secondary, Pan Wave, Buxton Secondary and North Ruimveldt Secondary.

George acknowledged the participation of President’s College, whose entry was hampered over the years by a fire which destroyed the pans at the school sometime back.

She said the school’s pans

were only replaced a few months ago but their skills were built up to standard in a relatively short time, showing their dedication.

A large crowd, including some popular personalities, gathered in and around the benab structure in front of the celebrated Kissing Bridge and were absorbed by the soothing sounds of pan, applauding in appreciation and reinforcing each other’s approval.

Minister of Education Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine and officials from his ministry were notable supporters of the show.

“We have grown from

Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnaraine (third right) applauds, as a member of the audience gathered at the national steelpan show at the Botanical Gardens on Sunday

when we started, from one band, two bands, to ten,” Administrator of the Unit of Allied Arts Desiree Wyles-Ogle commented.

She told Guyana Chronicle that the ministry is hoping that within the next five years steel-band music will be part of the curriculum in schools across the country, preserving the art that is native to the Caribbean.

H o w e v e r, s h e s a i d schools must have the facilities to accommodate the pans and a motivating Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) which could push for the implementation of such a programme in their respec-

tive schools. She named the PTA of Buxton Secondary as a leader in pushing for the art form in their school, as parents and the community were responsible for providing the pans and approaching the ministry.

Meanwhile, the afternoon’s musicians were also upbeat on the opportunity to showcase their pan talent and skills and as The Bishops’ High girl Candace Holder stated, “It is relaxing.”

“I am happy for the exposure. It is relaxing and you get to come together with different bands, so I’m thankful for this opportunity,” she told this publication.

Holder, who has been

participating in this event three years now, commended the education ministry for organising the colourful event, and pointed out that it attracts many to the art form, striking a remarkable balance in the curriculum.

“It’s really great; each year people join the band just to be a part of this… We need something to balance,” Holder stated.

Bridgette Nelson, Wanda, Ruth Jaundoo, Ivan Chapman and Donna Chapman were honoured with bouquets and other tokens for their sterling contributions to the department’s work over the years.

Lone juniors: North Ruimveldt Primary at the steel pan show

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Cop killed by junkie laid to rest …after moving thanksgiving service

By Shirley Thomas

CONSTABLE 21999 Antonio Dawson of the Guyana Police Force, killed in the line of duty two Fridays ago by a junkie was buried yesterday with full military honours at the Goed Intent Cemetery following a moving thanksgiving service for his life at a Wesleyan Church in the same West Bank Demerara village.

A pall of grief overhung the close-knit neighbourhood and hundreds downed tools as they headed teary-eyed for the church where mourners filed past the flag-draped casket bearing the mortal remains of Constable Dawson.

The church was packed to capacity with mourners and sympathisers, including fellow police ranks smartly dressed in ceremonial attire, many over-spilling the churchyard and lining both sides of the roadway.

Apart from their drums and ceremonial drill display, there was a moving musical interlude by the police choir.

Joining bereaved relatives, colleagues and friends of the dead constable in paying their last respects were: Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud, Commander Clifton Hicken and other senior ranks of the Guyana Police Force.

Officiating minister Pastor Mark Samuels delivered a stirring sermon that dwelt on the courage of a young policeman who risked his life in the execution of duty and even in the face of death did not respond with force.

Pastor Samuels, referring to the police as the Guyana Police Service, noted with conviction that the police force is moving to another dynamic dispensation where “ … We will no longer regard our policemen and women as those who are responding with force, but in service.”

He called on the congregation, amidst all that is being seen today, to be ever

conscious of the need to seek God, noting that today is the day of salvation. And he charged the police ranks to honour God and to fear him.

“We need godly officers,” Pastor Samuels declared, adding, “and I believe officer Dawson would have been executing that which is right.”

Meanwhile, Minister Ramjattan on a rather somber note remarked that it was a very sad day when one so young and brave would have lost his life under such circumstances. He extended condolences to Constable Dawson’s parents, children and other bereaved relatives.

He also acknowledged the contribution being made to the police force by the other three siblings of the Dawson household, noting that until Antonio’s passing there were four of them in active service. The minister observed that it is sad that such incidents should occur, especially at a time when the police force is being reformed.

“It is unfortunate that we are having these things happening, especially at a time when we are reforming the police force and I would have loved this generation of policemen to take it from there. It is unfortunate that he had to die,” Minister Ramjattan said.

The eulogy was read by Pastor Derek Andersen and there were other tributes by Pastor Vic Grimmond and the Commissioner of Police who expressed regrets at the rank’s tragic and untimely passing, and offered condolences on behalf of the Guyana Police Force.

Born on March 6, 1987, Constable Dawson died on September 18th 2015 at age 28. Attached to the Impact Base at Brickdam, he met his death as he was attempting to arrest 41-year-old Samuel Frederick Adams in response to call for back-up from the police marine wing, which was initially pursuing the suspect. Dawson on arrival at the scene surrendered

The bereaved relatives of Constable Antonio Dawson

his firearm to another rank and approached the suspect unarmed to urge him to put down his knife. However, the suspect responded by stabbing Dawson several times about the body. The tragedy happened at Houston, East Bank Demerara, in the vicinity of A. Gafoor and Sons. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed while in the operating theatre.

Meanwhile, after viciously wounding Dawson, the suspect turned the knife on himself, inflicting a wound to his chest and slitting his throat. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Minister Khemraj Ramjattan in front row flanked by Commander Clifton Hicken (left) and Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud (right).

The body of Constable Dawson being borne out of the church to his final place of rest, Goed Intent cemetery

Patterson: Gov’t refining country’s transportation policy

LINKING the hinterland and coastland by river, road and air is a priority for the country’s development, says Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson.

Underscoring the intention of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure to aggressively restructure previous plans to pave the road from Linden to Lethem, Minister Patterson said this corridor serves a multitude of purposes, especially transporting consumer goods and foreign adventure seekers on safaris, hunting trips, sightseeing and shopping in Lethem or across the Takutu Bridge in Bon Fim, Sao Paolo, Manaus, Roraima, Amazonia and other western states of Brazil.

This programme, he said, is a direct spin-off of a road transportation policy which is being refined. In the meantime, the ‘low hanging fruit’, the projects that are immediately achievable have already been set in motion while a new coordinating unit, the transportation authority, is set up. As a matter of course, the issue of weight, time and speed limits on specified roads and highways for heavy duty vehicles have been included.

Earlier in the year, several areas of cooperation were discussed when Brazilian Ambassador Lineu Pupo de Paula paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo.

The two sought to re-

new and strengthen the relationship between their two neighbouring countries and discussed several areas of possible collaboration, a government statement said.

PAVING LINDEN TO LETHEM ROAD According to Ambassador de Paula, Brazil is interested in assisting the Government of Guyana to pave the road from Linden to Lethem. In addition, the envoy pointed out that Brazil may look at setting up a hydro project in Guyana.

He said “we can talk about energy, the north of Brazil needs energy, and we can have maybe a project here, in the Mazaruni River, a hydro

[project] here.” Another area that Brazil can assist Guyana in is education, through the implementation and teaching of Portuguese in schools.

May last, sections of the Linden to Lethem road were washed away by heavy rainfall and the lone north-south corridor to the Rupununi became impassable.

In the past, road maintenance experts had said that it is almost fruitless to attempt to repair interior roads during very heavy rainfall. The road is the only communication link for the transportation of numerous passengers large quantities of food, fuel and other supplies from the coastland to the Rupununi.

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Blatter, Platini insist nothing WICB suspends wrong with questioned payment Simmons ... … FIFA boss tells staff no intention of quitting

From back page

By Simon Evans ZURICH, (Reuters) - FIFA president Sepp Blatter and the man who aims to replace him, UEFA chief Michel Platini, both insisted yesterday there was nothing untoward about a 2-million Swiss francs payment at the centre of fresh corruption allegations.

Swiss prosecutors said on Friday they had opened a criminal investigation into Blatter, the long-time head of FIFA, world soccer's governing body, on suspicion of criminal mismanagement and misappropriation of funds.

Blatter denies any wrongdoing and yesterday told FIFA staff that he has no intention of quitting as a result of the investigation.

The prosecutors said Blatter was suspected of a "disloyal payment" of 2 million Swiss francs ($2.05M) to Platini in 2011 at the expense of FIFA, allegedly made for work performed between January 1999 and June 2002.

They did not say why the payment was "disloyal" or what became of the money.

Both leaders said yesterday the payment was legitimate compensation for work done but neither offered an explanation for why Platini was not paid until nine years after finishing his spell as a paid adviser to Blatter.

"I wish to clarify that for the period 1998 to 2002, I was employed by FIFA to work on a wide range of matters relating to football," wrote Platini in a letter to European national football associations.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter speaks with UEFA president Michel Platini (L) before the 2014 World Cup Group G soccer match between Germany and Portugal at the Fonte Nova arena in Salvador June 16, 2014. (Reuters/Darren Staples)

"It was a full-time job and my functions were known by all. The remuneration was agreed at the time and after initial payments were made, the final outstanding amount of 2 million Swiss francs was paid in February of 2011.

"This income has all been fully declared by me to the authorities, in accordance with Swiss law," he added.

An emailed statement from Blatter's personal lawyers, Lorenz Erni of Switzerland and Richard Cullen of the United States, supported Platini's stance.

They said Blatter had "explained to the prosecutors that the payments were valid compensation and nothing more and were properly accounted for within FIFA, including the withholding of Social Security contributions".

Friday's allegations marked the first time that

authorities investigating corruption in the world's most popular sport had pointed the finger directly at Blatter, the 79-year-old Swiss who has run its powerful governing body for the past 17 years.

Blatter held a meeting with FIFA staff at the organisation's headquarters in the hills above Zurich yesterday afternoon and told them he was not going to quit because of the investigation.

"President Blatter spoke to FIFA staff today and informed the staff that he was cooperating with the authorities, reiterated that he had done nothing illegal or improper and stated that he would remain as president of FIFA," said the statement.

Blatter is due to stand down following the election of a new FIFA president at a special congress on February 26.

Platini, a former French

international player who heads Europe's football federation UEFA, was the early favourite to win that vote.

But although he was only interviewed as a witness in the case, his chances have been thrown into doubt by the reference to the payment

by Swiss prosecutors.

Both men could face a separate probe by FIFA's Ethics Committee which has the power to investigate allegations against officials within the governing body.

Platini said he was ready to provide answers to any questions the ethics investigators might have.

"I have today written to the Ethics Committee of FIFA to request that I may come forward and provide whatever additional information may be needed in order to clear this matter up," said Platini in his letter.

UK cricketers and celebrities ...

From page 21

having produced some of the greatest cricketers of all-time, and having hosted some of the most exciting and historical cricket Test matches, has always succeeded in attracting large numbers of cricketing fans and international press to our shores.”

ers has helped support the local community,” said Paul Robin, Chief Executive, Lord’s Taverners.

“Funds raised by this tour will help provide more young people with a sporting chance.”

The tour runs from the October 12 -16.

Lord’s Taverners was founded at Lord’s Cricket ground in 1950 by a group of actors and Patron and Twelfth Man HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and is a thriving members club of 5 000 high net worth individuals.

The Lord’s Taverners

have had close links to Antigua and Barbuda having raised £30 000 towards the restoration of the island’s St John’s Anglican Cathedral.

“This special tour to Sir Viv’s homeland is the perfect way to commemorate our 65th anniversary and see how the Lord’s Tavern-

Simmons said.

“The chairman, Mr (Clive) Lloyd, he came and he gave an exceptional speech saying that he thinks it is time they (Bravo and Pollard) are back in the squad and he gave exceptional reasons for them being back in the squad.

“Unfortunately, when we went into the selection (meeting) we lost it 3-2.

Him and myself – the captain (Jason Holder) doesn’t have a vote in this – but the captain also gave his views as why they need to be back.”

He added: “That’s not the disappointing fact, the disappointing fact is that you can lose 3-2 in a voteoff but there is too much interference from outside in the selection of the ODI squad and it’s disappoint-

ing for me to know that in any aspect of life … (people would use) their position to get people into a squad or in this case, get people left out of a squad.

“It is wrong and I don’t like it and that is my beef with the selection of the ODI team.”

Simmons was appointed last March following t h e I C C C r i c k e t Wo r l d Cup in Australia and New Zealand, and has overseen Home Series against England and Australia.

West Indies drew the three-Test series against England 1-1, but lost the two-Test series to Australia, 2-0.

Simmons, 52, is a former West Indies cricketer who played 26 Tests and 143 ODIs between 1987 and 1999. He is a former Ireland coach.

Alpha United outclass GFC 2–0 for ...

From back page

owned club in the first half and created several goalscoring chances of their own.

And after seeing their rivals Slingerz FC secure three points, Alpha United were pressured into ensuring that they too walk away from the contest with maximum points.

It will be fair to say that the first half belonged to GFC, the team many consider as ‘minnows’ of the Stag Elite League, but they were cheered on by the partisan crowd to score against Alpha United in the ‘David versus Goliath’ match-up.

When the two sides came out from the dressing room for the second stanza, having played to a goal-less first half, Alpha United imposed their dominance.

If it were not for Bain’s clumsy footing upfront, coupled with his poor finishing,

Alpha United would have won by a wider margin.

However, after missing some certain goal chances, Bain bullied his way past GFC’s defence to connect to a flat pass that came in from Lawrence to beat Derrick Carter in goal.

Ten minutes later, Lawrence broke away and scored on a one-on-one with Carter who was out of position, as Alpha United grabbed a 2-0 lead.

Nothing changed in the game and GFC were forced to ‘park the bus’ for the rest of the contest.

Alpha United’s next game in the league will be against Fruta Conquerors on Sunday, October 4 at the GFC ground and GFC will make a trip to Base Camp Ayanganna where they will come up against the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

GFF General Secretary Richard ...

However, many had questioned if it was a “good idea” to have Groden serve, even on a temporary basis, given the reason which led to his resignation from the same post in Trinidad and Tobago.

Groden was one of four officials who escaped punishment from FIFA over the Caribbean Football Union

From back page

(CFU) bribery scandal that saw the then-GFF president Colin Klass being banned from the sport.

The Trinidadian received just a warning from FIFA’s ethics committee for his involvement in the Qatari Mohamed bin Hammam cash-for-votes scandal.

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

GTTA holds fruitful meeting with Director of Sport THE Executive Committee of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) held a fruitful meeting with Director of Sport Christopher Jones recently.

The meeting was centrally geared to discuss plans and projects of the association in view of seeking the Director’s support for the initiatives of the GTTA as well as to get his inputs to align the association’s plans and programmes where possible Jones alluded to the fact that he was very enthused by some of the developmental projects outlined by the GTTA and would be giving support to ensure that the sport grows.

He indicated that he would like to see a focus on developmental plans of the

respective association.

The meeting is the first of several he is expected to have with national federations to get more insight into their plans, programmes and projections for the respective sports.

Among one of the major things discussed was the proposal for a high-level Chinese coach/player through diplomatic channels. The GTTA is hoping that a highlevel coach/player will visit Guyana on a one- or twoyear stint here to boost our national elite programmes Among other matters discussed were plans for the development of a national sports structure, land/home for table tennis and a National table tennis schools programme.

Executives of the GTTA meet with Director of Sport Christopher Jones

Future of golf in good hands with new ‘Big Three’ on top

By Larry Fine ATLANTA, USA (Reuters) Jordan Spieth's twin win in the Tour Championship and

FedExCup playoffs aptly ended a magnificent PGA Tour season for himself and the sport of golf which has enthusiastically embraced a new 'Big Three.'

Spieth, 22, put his stamp on the 2014-15 season with five titles, including wins at the Masters and U.S. Open, a record $12M in official PGA Tour earnings plus the $10M FedExCup bonus, and the low adjusted scoring average.

The Texan's sensational season signoff at East Lake took the drama out of the upcoming vote by his peers for PGA Tour Player-of-the-Year despite a remarkable run by 27-year-old Jason Day. The long-hitting Australian won four of six events leading up to the Tour Championship, including the PGA Championship for his maiden major, and had a taste of being world number one.

The campaign's one-two punch of Spieth and Day followed a commanding season from Rory McIlroy, the 26-year-old Northern Irishman who closed last year's Majors season by winning the British Open and PGA as he reigned as world number one.

Then things got dizzy at the top.

Spieth and McIlroy traded places for four straight weeks after the PGA. Red-hot Day took over last Monday for a one-week stay until Spieth reclaimed top spot with his Sunday triumphs for the sixth successive change at number one.

There has not been a troika anything like this since the days of Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player.

"If you go back several decades to the Big Three, where you had Arnold, Gary and Jack, it just seemed dur-

Jordan Spieth tees off on the 12th during the second round of the Northern Trust Open at Riviera Country Club. (Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports)

ing that 10- or 15-year period they were in a sense at a level of their own and it led to a series of matches which were compelling," said PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem.

"There hasn't been a consistency of rivalry at the top, when you saw the same faces coming down the stretch as many times as you did this year. It was significant. So, it's a tremendous situation."

About five years separated each of the old Big Three, with Palmer the eldest, followed by Player and then Nicklaus.

The new-wave trio are within five years in age and could be battling one another for a long time.

"We all want to beat the crud out of each other," said Spieth, who was named the PGA of America player-ofthe-year yesterday. "We want to beat each other down."

After the tough talk, Spieth said they were all buddies just hungry to win.

It is not just their frequent appearances in the winner's circle that has triggered excitement, but the firepower

they bring.

Spieth tied Tiger Woods' record low score at the Masters this year; McIlroy set a host of records with his 2011 U.S. Open triumph at Congressional, and Day set a majors record for low score in relation to par in winning the PGA. "The fact that there's been such a high level from numerous guys, it's cool," said Spieth. "We push each other."

Day, who like Spieth has registered five wins in 2015, noted there were other young guns.

"Golf is in good shape," said the Australian. Not only with myself and Jordan, but Rory, Rickie (Fowler), Danny Lee and (Hideki) Matsuyama."

McIlroy missed a key chunk of the season after injuring his ankle playing football with friends, but clearly relishes fully joining in the fun in 2016.

"It's been a great season and if this is the sign for things to come, then obviously golf is in a really good spot," he said.

21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Armstrong cloud lingers over world championships

By Steve Keating RICHMOND, Virginia (Reuters) - International Cycling Union (ICU) chief Brian Cookson would not say his name but Lance Armstrong and a rogues' gallery of disgraced cyclists remained on the lips of many at the cycling world championships.

Back on U.S. roads for the first time since 1986, the week-long event attracted nearly half-million flag-waving, cowbell clanging spectators and helped pour $128M into the local economy by the time it ended on Sunday.

But despite the bright numbers, dark clouds from a decade of scandals still hang over the sport, particularly in the United States where Armstrong and fellow drug cheats and Americans Floyd Landis, Tyler Hamilton and George Hincapie punctured cycling's popularity.

"Because of Lance we have been at the centre of that negativity and now we have this amazing event we are pulling off very well," USA Cycling chief executive Derek Bouchard-Hall told Reuters. "In the global cycling community it is a very helpful event to have at this time to get back on a positive side.

"The sport remains immensely popular and that is because the fans have been tolerant.

"They are pissed off and they are upset but they are out there still watching, still participating they just want to see it better.

"What is interesting is that no matter how much we have disappointed the fans they still come back. It is amazing it has endured even

this event is important because the conversation is about the world championships here in America and that is a positive story about the sport.

"That is exactly what we

Cyclist Lance Armstrong of the U.S. (C) signs autographs during a break as he takes part in Geoff Thomas's 'One Day Ahead' charity event during a stage of the 102nd Tour de France cycling race from Muret to Rodez, France, July 16, 2015. (Reuters/Fred Lancelo)

though it was derailed from that growth trajectory it had for awhile."

For Cookson, who has taken on the challenge of restoring cycling's tarnished image, Armstrong remains the party pooper at the UCI's most important event.

Once one of the United States' most celebrated athletes, Armstrong became a worldwide sporting villain stripped of his seven Tour de France victories after admitting to using performanceenhancing drugs.

Already rocked by a string of doping scandals, Armstrong's admission dealt cycling's credibility a body blow from which it has yet to recover.

Such is the distain that Cookson could not even bring himself to mention Armstrong by name. "(Doping) is still part of our history that casts a dark shadow, there is no doubt about that, but I think we are coming out of that shadow into the light," Cookson told Reuters. "There will always be people who try to cheat.

What we've got to do is try to keep that at a minimum and do it with integrity and independence.

"This is not acceptable anymore. We had to clean our act up. We had no alternative.

"Obviously I want to go forward and not dwell too much on the past. The person (Armstrong) you mentioned has had far too much publicity over the years.

"Clearly this was a very damaging era for us."

While American cycling fans may not have forgotten about the sport's doping problems they certainly appeared willing to forgive, coming out in huge numbers to cheer on riders during the world championships.

Race organisers were praised for their efforts while competitors seemed genuinely impressed by the enthusiasm shown by their American hosts and nearly 3 000 volunteers.

"There is no doubt we suffered a terrible black eye and we are recovering from that," said Bouchard-Hall.

"That is another reason why

UK cricketers and celebrities head to Antigua for charity tour ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) - Cricketers from the United Kingdom will assemble in Antigua and Barbuda next month for the 65th Anniversary Tour of Lord’s Taverners, the UK’s leading youth cricket and disability sports charity.

They include Mike Gatting OBE, Andy Craddick, Luke Wright and Ryan ten

Doeschate as well as celebrities Harry Judd and television personalities Jonnie Irwin, Nick Hancock and Mark Chapman.

The all-star group of over twenty will be in Antigua for five days of procelebrity cricket including Twenty20 night cricket at The Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and a fundraising dinner and auction.

“This event, offers us tremendous international exposure and we are extremely delighted that Lord’s Taverners and their supporters have selected Antigua and Barbuda for t h e i r t o u r, ” s a i d C o l i n James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.

“Antigua and Barbuda, Turn to page 19 ►

need and why this is important.

"We have seen recently a growth in our membership, the sport continues to grow it has softened but is growing, and I expect it to accelerate

going forward.

"It has no doubt stalled the growth we saw in the past. I want to get us back on track where we are growing strongly again and that has softened."

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Eight teams for 11th Shakeup in Busta Champion of GRFU executive Champions cricket

… Green reelected as president, Griffith new vice-president

T H E R o s e H a l l To w n Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC) is set to unveil the eleventh edition of its annual Busta Champion of Champions 40 overs cricket tournament.

The tournament would be a special one for the club as it would be one of the numerous programmes organised as part of its Silver Jubilee celebrations.

Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster disclosed that the Club's Cricket Development Committee is hard at work making preparations for a highly successful tournament.

The teams in the tournament are: defending champions Albion, Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets, West Berbice, Blairmont, Young Warriors, Tucber Park (formerly Bermine), Police and

RHTY&SC Club Secretary Hilbert Foster

Upper Corentyne.

The winning team will take home $100 000 and the Busta trophy while the losing finalists would receive $50 000 and a trophy.

Matches will be played across the Ancient County

with the final most likely to be played under the lights at the Albion Community Centre.

Foster noted that the RHTYSC will be using the matches to promote the ‘Say No to Crime, Yes to Sport’ message.

Management of the invited teams will be required to submit a 20-member squad to the RHTYSC via email foster_hilbert@yahoo.com or to the Club's office, Area 'H' Ground, Rose Hall Town.

Foster stated they will be organising numerous cricket tournaments in the Second Division, Under-19, Under-17 and Under-15 levels as part of its cricket development levels but only teams who have committed management and the interest of Berbice cricket at heart would be invited.

Beckles to hold seminar for RJs THE Guyana Amateur Boxing Association (GABA) has cemented an agreement with top Caribbean referee/judge James Beckles that would see him hold a five-day seminar in Guyana just prior to the International Goodwill Tournament.

Beckles would arrive in Guyana on November 20 and start the seminar the following day. The five-day programme would deal with all topics relating to refereeing and judging and will include the new rules created

by AIBA. The Trinidadian is no stranger to Guyana having held several seminars

James Beckles

here. He was instrumental in whipping into shape local officials leading up to last

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Steve Comacho& Sew Shivnarine (2) Dennis Lillee (AUST vs PAK, Leeds, 1975)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which two never made a double hundred in Tests?

Gordon Greenidge; Desmond Haynes; Jimmy Adams; Alvin Kallicharran; Sherwin Campbell (2) Who has taken most ODI wickets to date? How many?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

year’s Goodwill tournament.

GABA president Steve Ninvalle said that head of the organisation’s Referee and Judges (RJ) Commission, Romona Agard, has been tasked with preparation for the seminar.

He added that several young and new persons would be groomed and added to the Commission shortly. Beckles’ visit is timed to coincide with the massive International tournament which is being sponsored by the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA).

The GABA has invited 16 countries and at present eight countries have signalled intention to participate. Those countries are: Anguilla, Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, French Guiana, Jamaica, St Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago.

The tournament will run from November 26 to 29, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. It is geared towards serving as a nursery for the production of boxers for Elite competitions staged by the AMBC and/or AIBA, and to give technical officials of the region an opportunity to get much-needed practice in preparation for moving forward in the AIBA training programme.

The GRFU executives pose following their AGM and elections last Sunday.

WHILE Peter Green returned unopposed as president, John Lewis, the former senior vice-president has been replaced by president of the University of Guyana Students Society (UGSS) Joshua Griffith, when the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) held its elections on Sunday.

Elwin Chase, the current coach of the national women’s rugby team was elected to serve as junior vice-president, replacing Alwin Etwah.

Petal Adams replaced long-serving member Terrence Grant as secretary and Keith White was named treasurer, after Roger Pereira

declined reelection.

Ryan Dey (Assistant secretary/treasurer), Esan Griffith (Public Relations Officer) and Shane GrantStewart (Match secretary) are the other elected members while Daniel Anderson, Sabola Gray and Delroy Gordon are committee members.

Green urged the newly elected executives to work hard with the aim of developing the sport of rugby in Guyana.

Griffith, speaking on his selection of senior vice-president, added “Being the recently elected vice-president of the GRFU, I’m humbled, appreciative and thankful for all those who voted as well

as put their trust in me to serve in this capacity” The UGSS president noted, “One of the things we will be looking to do is to meet with the members of the clubs and to hear what the issues are and to see how best we can remedy those issues and also to have an overarching vision for the GRFU moving forward: a five-year plan, a ten-year plan, a vision statement, a strategic plan so that we take rugby to the next level locally, regionally and internationally.”

Meanwhile, the GRFU will kick off its season with the Banks DIH Sevens, set for October 4 at the National Park Rugby Field.

NOTABLE DATES SUPER featherweight Gairy St Clair improved his record to 7-0 following a point victory over Edwin Ruiz. The six-round fight was held on September 29, 1996 at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and was St Clair’s third in the USA. The victory over the 35-year-old Ruiz (14 years St Clair’s senior) came just two weeks after St Clair had TKOed fellow Guyanese Forbes David, and was followed by a first-round TKO of Malcolm Lowery

Gary St Clair

in November of the same year.

St Clair was 31 years old in July 2006 when he defeated Cassius Baloyi to claim the International Boxing Federation (IBF)

and the International Boxing Organisation world titles. However, he was unable to hold on to the crowns for long as he lost to Malcolm Klassen in his first defence.

He would also lose to Amir Khan in a challenge for the Commonwealth lightweight title. `Superman’ turned 40 in February and is still active in his adopted country Australia. He has been victorious in his last four fights and engaged in 60 bouts, winning 46, losing 12 and drawing two.

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Unbeaten Fruta Conquerors Preparations move high gear for clash with the ‘Army’ intoQuick Shift ... Bottom-of-the-table Buxton United face Pele

Rondel Dabi’s Toyota Supra (L) lines up against his brother Peter’s RX7 (R). (Photo by Sean Charles)

Pele FC’s Deon Alfred (L) and Jermaine Summerset

THE Stag Elite League returns to the Tucville Community Centre ground tonight with two intriguing matches.

From 18:00hrs, Pele FC will come up against the bottom-of-the-table Buxton United and in the evening’s second encounter, an undefeated Fruta Conquerors will host to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

Pele had a dream start in their race to the Stag Elite League title, winning 2-1 against the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) on opening night.

In their second match, striker Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson carried them (Pele) to a 2-2 draw against Alpha United.

Though playing their first two matches in the league at best, Buxton United played to 1-0 losses, suffered at the hands of Fruta Conquerors and the GDF and it will be interesting to see how the East Coast Demerara team stand up to a potent Pele FC attack.

Having one of, if not the youngest team in the

league, Buxton United will have to keep Richardson and his wingman Travis ‘Zorro’ Grant at arm’s length and also ensure that they capitalise on their chances, since that has ose things have plagued them in their two previous matches.

If one were to select a league MVP at this stage, Richardson will certain walk away with the crown, especially after his performance against Alpha United.

Should Buxton solve their finishing problem, fans at the

Fruta Conquerors’ Dennis Edwards (left) and Kwamie LaFleur are enjoying an exceptional tournament.

Tucville ground will be in for a long night and a heated affair.

The Fruta Conquerors/ GDF affair has the potential to be one of the best games of the league, simply because of the nature of the two clubs.

Both teams play to the last whistle and are fully equipped to either limit their opponents or tear through their defence.

Coach Calvin Allen, however, has the upper hand on GDF’s Denzil Thompson, since he’s a bit more tactical

and exhibits a better understanding of the game.

Thompson is usually blamed for elementary coaching mistakes, coming oftentimes when the game is on the line.

Allen, on the other hand, has the ability to make clinical adjustments and is able to read his opponents game plan exceptionally well.

However, the two sides are evenly matched in most departments despite Fruta Conquerors having a younger squad.

Points standing in the STAG Elite League

MSC, TSC bag victories in NBS second division cricket … Century for Nikosie Barker MALTEENOES Sports Club (MSC) and Transport Sport Club (TSC) were in winners’ row over the weekend when they defeated Ace Warriors and Sophia in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) NBS Second Division 40over tournament.

Batting first, MSC posted 264 all out in their allotted overs then wrapped up Ace

Warriors for 66 runs in 11 overs.

Nikosie Barker steered MSC to a comprehensive 198-run win with a knock of 103.

His innings was laced with 14 boundaries and two maximums while Orin Forde supported at the other end with a sturdy 37 that included four fours.

Kareem Naughton

pitched in with 29 while Raja Aaron grabbed 4-53 for the opposition. Warriors had a tough time in replying as medium pacer Jamal McKenzie 5-23 and Steven Sankar 2-4 were unplayable.

In the other match at GNIC ground, Sophia lost by six wickets after posting 161 all out in 31.5 overs. R. Dataram top-scored with 51 while N. George and A. Per-

saud chipped in the 28 and 18 respectively.

Joshua Wilson captured 3-19, Junior Duncan 3-42 and Kevin Ross 2-24. TSC responded with 162-4 in 19.1 overs. Shemroy Kendall led the chase with an even half-century while Devaughn Nandan hit 24 not out and Keon Morris 20.

The competition continues this weekend.

WITH just under five days for the second edition of the Quick Shift drag racing event, the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) is ramping up preparations.

The second instalment of the quarter-mile affair will feature some of the fastest straight line cars in the business strutting their stuff.

According to vice-president of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC), Shairaz Roshandin, fans and racers alike can expect a renewed feeling, come Sunday.

“Preparations are coming along perfectly well; we have made some adjustments where we will have a smoother flow of events (races). We have the parking facility for the racers better organised and patrons will see a lot more races in a shorter period of time.”

He noted that the use of the drag racing tree and lights will be in place and new racers should get to the track for 09:00hrs in order

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to familiarise themselves with the workings during the free practice period.

Qualifying begins at 10:00hrs where cars will be placed into groups based on how fast they can complete the quarter mile while the knock-out phase begins an hour later.

Meanwhile, the club has organised a meeting tomorrow at its building in Albert Street, Thomas Lands, for all drag racing competitors and those interested.

The meeting will commence at 17.00hrs and will focus on issues that dragracers may have and also on the implementation of systems to ensure the smoother flow of drag-racing events.

Admission is $1 000 for adults, $500 for kids under 12 and vehicles are free.

Sponsors are GT&T, Valvoline, Fly Jamaica, South Land International Inc, Universal Communications Inc, Gran Sports, Rent-a-Tent, Ganesh Parts & General Store, Fanatix Designs, A&R Jiwanram Printery.

Southwell 09:20 hrs Chankillo 09:55 hrs Ballybogey 10:30 hrs Pattara 11:05 hrs Weybridge Light 11:40 hrs Francis Of Assisi 12:10 hrs Kayla Irish racing Tips Fairyhouse 09:15 hrs Aldo Raine 09:45 hrs Fair Game 10:20 hrs Taisce Naisiunta 10:55 hrs Burren View Lady 11:30 hrs Krissy’s Kisses 12:05 hrs Spin Point 12:35 hrs Valac American Racing Tips Parx Racing Race 1 Verdigris Race 2 The Pulse Race 3 Joint Attempt Race 4 Litlmissmartypants Race 5 Deacon Furr Race 6 Shutter Speed Race 7 Indy Breeze Race 8 She’s Sassy Race 9 Chocolatier Race10 Barbs ANGEL

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Unbeaten Fruta Conquerors clash with the ‘Army’ 23 P.

... Bottom-of-the-table Buxton United face Pele

WICB suspends Simmons for tour of Sri Lanka ... Eldine Baptiste to take over duties as head coach B R I D G E TO W N , B a r b a d o s (CMC) – Phil Simmons was yesterday suspended as West Indies head coach, for criticising the selection process regarding the one-day team for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.

The Trinidadian, only appointed six months ago, made the shocking move of slamming the omission of Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Bravo from the yet-to-be announced ODI squad, claiming there had been “outside interference” in the selection process.

In a statement, the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) said

Phil Simmons is suspended as West Indies head coach.

Eldine Baptiste will replace Simmons for the series.

it had “learnt of the comments from head coach of the West Indies team Phil Simmons in the print and electronic media which appear to question the legitimacy of the selection process of the One-Day International squad for the tour of Sri Lanka.”

“As a result, the management of the WICB has taken action to suspend the head coach, pending an investigation into the issue,” the release said.

“The head coach will not now travel with the team on the tour of Sri Lanka.”

Ironically, one group of West Indies players were scheduled to leave here yesterday for the

Test tour of Sri Lanka, with the second group set to depart today.

Eldine Baptiste, who was expected to be the ‘selector on tour’ will now replace Simmons for the two-Test series which will be followed by the one-day series.

In a media conference at the conclusion of the team preparation camp last Friday, Simmons took the unusual step of accusing “people” of using their “influence” to determine squad selection.

“I think it’s disappointing from the fact that I haven’t got the best 50-over ODI squad that we can select in the Caribbean,” Turnt to page 19 ►

GFF General Secretary Alpha United outclass GFC 2–0 for first Stag Elite win Richard Groden steps down ALPHA United, Guyana’s most decorated football club, secured their first win in the Stag Elite League following a 2-0 victory over the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) on Sunday.

Playing against the home team, Alpha United were led by second-half strikes from Grenadian Kithson Bain (5th minute) and new signee Dwayne Lawrence (67th minute), to secure their first win in the League.

The win now sees them (Alpha United) in third position behind the undefeated Fruta Conquerors and archrivals Slingerz FC who also picked their first league win (3-0 over Monedderlust) but have a superior goal difference.

While Alpha United dominated the second half of the contest, GFC matched the Odinga LumumbaTurnt to page 19 ►

Alpha United goalscorers Dwayne Lawrence (left) and Kithson Bain

RICHARD Groden’s tenure as the General Secretary of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will come to an end tomorrow, according to a release from the sport’s local governing body.

Groden was originally scheduled to complete his services as general secretary of the GFF at the end of September when the Normalisation Committee was supposed to come to an end.

However, with the Normalisation Committee’s life being extended to November 14, Groden, according to the release, will be unable to fulfil the extended deadline.

Assistant General Secretary Diedre Davis will assume the role of General Secretary as of October 1.

Groden expressed thanks and gratitude to all who exhibited patience and provided support and clarity during his tenure as general secretary.

He believes that there is still a lot to be achieved in

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the interest of football and urges those who will take over the reins of administration, at all levels, to proceed in a collective and inclusive manner to ensure the success that is necessary in the governance of the administration of football in Guyana.

The GFF was without a general secretary following the sacking last December of Mabiola Howard who had taken over from Noel Adonis.

GFF’s Normalisation Committee Chairman Clinton Urling had told the media that CONCACAF recommended Groden and he will serve as general secretary of the federation during the tenure of the Normalisation Committee and will demit office on the completion of the committee’s mandate.

Urling at the time of his (Groden) appointment said that the Trinidadian has “extensive experience in the inner workings of the international football network,

Richard Groden

having served on many FIFA and CONCACAF committees throughout his career.

He also served as CEO of the Organising Committees of five Trinidad national teams’ appearance in various World Cup categories, including the Soca Warriors in the 2006 World Cup in Germany and the Girls Under-17 finals in 2010 in Trinidad”.

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2015