Chronicle 01 26 2016

ALL SET TUESDAY JANUARY 26, 2016

No. 104443

Price: $80

(Vat Inclusive)

- for LGE Nomination Day

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Khurshid Sattaur

Safe drop

This safe, believed to have once stored confidential files of the country’s revenue authority, was dropped off at the office of Auditor General in Kingston, Georgetown Monday morning.

Officials there knew nothing of it

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51 years Baby sexually for one-eyed molested bandit Page 11

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‌man, wife arrested

Convicted: Deon Marks

See Inside

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

Who’s on Page Two

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Hadassah Josiah, 23, is an ambitious single mother who plans to further her studies in the field of marketing, an area in which she currently works. She describes life as having had its ups and downs, and is mindful that all of us make mistakes at times. She says: “It’s not selfish to love yourself or to make your happiness a priority. It is necessary to do this, and so you must remind yourself every day that it is ‘okay’ if you are not perfect.”

ALL SET

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

- for LGE Nomination Day

By Ariana Gordon POLITICAL parties, voluntary groups and individuals will today submit their Lists of Representatives for the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE) to their respective Returning Officers (RO) in their specific Local Authority Area.

The activities relative to Nomination Day will not be held at one specific location as is customary for National Elections.

With elections 50 days away, political parties, voluntary groups and individuals must submit an original and copy of a List of Candidates to the RO by the representative or deputy representative or nominee of the list or by two named persons as candidates on the said list at the RO’s office as gazetted by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

After receiving the List of Candidates, the RO will ensure that the copy of each list is posted outside of his office for inspection.

LGE will be held in nine Municipalities and 62 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) throughout the country using a hybrid system of Proportional Representation and First Past-the-Post.

Fifty per cent of the number of Councillors of each Local Authority Area will be elected through Proportional Representation while, the other 50 per cent will be elected through First-Past-the-Post method. The aforementioned system allows voluntary groups, political parties and individual candidates to contest for seats in the NDCs and municipalities.

It should be noted that only voluntary groups and political parties can contest in the Proportional Representation aspect of Local Government Elections.

Voluntary groups and political parties can also contest any or all of the seats under the constituency component of the elections. The candidate(s) must be living in the constituency being contested.

Under the First-Past-The-Post Component, an individual candidate can contest for only one seat in a single constituency in which he or she is registered and resides.

GECOM’s Deputy Chief Elections Officer Vishnu Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle on Monday that as gazetted, the offices of RO across the 71 Local Authority Area will

open at 10:00h and is scheduled to close at 14:00h.

However, GECOM will be lenient with those persons who were unable to submit their Lists of Candidates before the allotted time.

“The voluntary groups, political parties or individuals

Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan

GECOM Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Vishnu Persaud

that come first will be treated first but if after 2pm persons are still there, we will not turn them away.”

Mr Persaud explained that after the lists are received by the ROs; they have to be examined after which the representatives or deputy representatives will be alerted of the defects.

This will be done on Wednesday. It is the representatives’ responsibility to return the corrected lists of candidates to the ROs by Friday after which the Lists of Candidates are to be approved no later than Sunday, January 31.

WILL BE INFORMED All representatives or deputy representatives will be informed by GECOM of the approval or disapproval of their lists on the said Sunday.

“When the lists are received, they have to be checked to determine the accuracy and compliance with the requirements,” he told Guyana Chronicle from his Kingston Office.

3 The Deputy Chief Elections Officer noted too that those Lists of Candidates that have been disapproved due to defects can be reviewed through an appeal process. Appeals against the refusal to approve the Lists of Candidates will be heard on February 1.

Representatives or deputies can appeal 45 days before LGE to a Magistrate of the Magisterial District after which that Magistrate may after examining the facts before him dismiss the appeal, approve the list or approve the list with modifications.

If the List of Candidates is approved by the Magistrate, the RO shall no later than the following day publish the approved titles and symbols.

“The approved titles and symbols will then be included on the ballot papers to be used for Election Day,” Persaud added.

GECOM is required to publish symbols and the approved Lists of Candidates no later than February 2. LGE will be held on March 28.

Meanwhile, Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan in a brief interview told this publication that he is awaiting GECOM’s report on Nomination Day activities. He said of particular interest to him is the number of individuals submitting an interest to contest the elections.

“As you know, this is the first time individuals are able to contest… and this is the objective of depoliticising the management of communities… I am looking forward to GECOM’s report,” Minister Bulkan said.

On Saturday Police ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken and a team of officers visited several sites to ensure adequate security arrangements are in place. He said there will be zero tolerance for unruly behaviour at any of the identified areas. During his site visits, the ‘A’ Division Commander discussed the arrangements in place to assist GECOM staff in executing their respective duties hindrance-free.

The team visited LGE sites located at the Luckhoo Building on Waterloo Street, the East Bank Demerara Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) offices: Eccles/Ramsburg at Providence Stadium; Herstelling/ Little Diamond at Farm; Mocha-Arcadia; New Diamond/Grove Primary School; Caledonia/Good Success; and Soesdyke/Coverden.

LGE was last held here in 1994.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Cold snap kills 85 in Taiwan A COLD snap sweeping across East Asia has killed at least 85 people in Taiwan and stranded 60,000 tourists in South Korea.

Taiwanese media reported deaths from hypothermia and cardiac disease following a sudden drop in temperature over the weekend.

Meanwhile, heavy snow forced the closure of the airport on the Korean holiday island of Jeju, cancelling flights.

The cold spell has also hit Hong Kong, southern China and Japan.

Many of those who died in Taiwan were elderly people living in northern regions such as Taipei and Taoyuan.

Those areas accounted for 66 of the deaths.

Another 16 were confirmed dead in the southern city of Kaohsiung.

The temperature in Taipei

city fell to a 44-year low of 4C (39F) on Sunday, and many homes in Taiwan lack central heating.

Many victims reportedly had heart trouble and shortness of breath.

“In our experience, it’s not the actual temperature but the sudden drop that’s too sudden for people’s circulatory systems,’’ said a city official quoted by AP news agency.

Most excess winter deaths and illnesses are not caused by hypothermia or extremes of cold, but by heart and breathing problems. Frail elderly people are particularly at risk.

Cold weather makes your heart work harder to keep your body warm. It increases your heart rate and blood pressure, and can cause changes to your blood that increase the risk of developing blood clots that may lead to heart attacks

and strokes.

Low temperatures can make it harder to breathe, and can make existing chest problems, such as asthma, worse. There is also more flu circulating during the winter.

If you have reduced mobility, are 65 or over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease, experts say it is a good idea to heat your home to at least 18C. A 56-year-old man surnamed Chen was found dead on the street Sunday morning, reported Focus Taiwan, but most of the victims in the city and its surrounding region, known as New Taipei City, were found indoors.

Authorities have warned people, especially senior citizens, to keep warm and stay out of the cold.

In South Korea, more than 500 domestic and international flights have been cancelled

On Monday morning hundreds of passengers were still stranded in Jeju airport

in Jeju, as the island known for balmy weather and beaches saw -6C weather. The airport was due to reopen on Monday night.

Thousands of tourists were left stranded over the weekend. Yonhap news agen-

cy reported that local officials were scrambling to find transport and accommodation.

In Hong Kong, residents shivered in 3C, the lowest temperature there in nearly 60 years.

Parts of Guangzhou and

Shenzhen in southern China have also seen the rare appearance of snow, while the southern Japanese island of Okinawa has seen sleet for the first time ever, report Chinese and Japanese media.

Zika virus to spread across Americas THE ZIKA virus is likely to spread across nearly all of the Americas, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned.

The infection, which causes symptoms including mild fever, conjunctivitis and headache, has already

been found in 21 countries in the Caribbean, North and South America.

It has been linked to thousands of babies being born with underdeveloped brains and some countries have advised women not to get pregnant.

Tuesday, January 26, 2016 - 05:00 hrs Wednesday, January 27, 2016 - 05:00 hrs Thursday, January 28 2016 - 08:30 hrs

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No treatment or vaccine is available.

The virus is native to Africa and was first found to be spreading in the Americas in Brazil in May 2015.

The lack of any natural immunity in the Americas is thought to be helping the infection to spread rapidly.

Zika is transmitted by the bite of Aedes Aegyti mosquitoes, which are found in all countries in the region except Canada and Chile.

In a statement, The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), the regional office of the WHO, said: “PAHO anticipates that Zika virus will continue to spread and will likely reach all countries and territories of the region where Aedes mosquitoes are found.”

It also confirmed the virus had been detected in semen and there was “one case of possible person-to-person sexual transmission” but further evidence was still needed.

About 80 per cent of infections do not result in symptoms.

But the biggest concern

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is the potential impact on babies developing in the womb. There have been around 3,500 reported cases of microcephaly - babies born with tiny brains - in Brazil alone since October.

PAHO warned pregnant women to be “especially careful” and to see their doctor before and after visiting areas affected by the virus.

It also confirmed the virus had been detected in semen and there was “one case of possible person-to-person sexual transmission”, but further evidence was still needed.

It is advising people to protect themselves from the mosquitoes, which also spread dengue fever and chikungunya.

PAHO advice is to ensure all containers that can hold even small amounts of water should be emptied and cleaned to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

And that people should protect themselves by using insect repellent, covering up, and keeping windows and doors closed.

(BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

51 years for one-eyed bandit

By Clestine Juan

DEON MARKS, a oneeyed bandit who pleaded guilty to a series of criminal charges, was on Monday sentenced to 51 years’ imprisonment by Providence Magistrate Leron Dailey.

Marks changed his original innocent plea to guilty on five counts of armed robbery, one count of being in possession of an unlicensed gun and ammunition, and one count of shooting at police and at a licensed firearm holder.

He was sentenced on each of the charges, but they will run concurrently, so he will only actually serve five years in prison.

The Lot 156 Kaneville, East Bank Demerara resident, a father of one, lost his left eye in a shootout with police

at Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

On Marks’s first court appearance, on December 18 at the Providence Court, he was refused bail after denying all of the charges; but he faced the indictable charge of shooting at the police officer.

However, at Monday’s court proceedings, Police Prosecutor Michael Grant applied the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) to the indictable charge.

In pleading guilty to this charge, Marks explained to the court that he wished to change all of his past pleas. The charges were re-read to him, and he nodded his head to each and said, “Guilty, Madame.”

One charge detailed that on December 13, at Grove Housing Scheme, EBD, while being in the company

Convicted: Deon Marks of others and being armed with a gun, he robbed Cheryl Embrack of a quantity of gold jewellery, two cellular phones and her stereo set, to a total value of $252,000.

Another charge detailed that Marks discharged a loaded firearm at three police officers with intent to dis-

“News to me” …Lucas says of Sattaur’s allegations

By Ariana Gordon Statements made by former Commissioner General, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Khurshid Sattaur that suggest that he was asked to perform unsavory acts by the current administration is of surprise to the Authority’s Chairman, Rawle Lucas.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Monday evening, Lucas said the statements made by Sattaur are “news to me.” “I know nothing about it- I learnt about it when it was published,” he responded. Asked whether the allegations made by Sattaur would be investigated by the Board of Directors of the Revenue Authority, Lucas replied, “I haven’t received a complaint…I don’t know if he is making up stories… I am not sure how much credence they have.”

Lucas told Guyana Chronicle that he unsure of what Sattaur is referring to and noted that Sattaur while in the employ of GRA never raised any objections. “He never raised any concerns or objections while he was there so I am not sure what he could be referring to.”

The GRA Chairman assured this publication that the Board of Directors has no issue answering questions pertinent to public matters but in this case, there is nothing he can state on anything of the allegations made by Sattaur as no information to substantiate the claims by Sattaur was taken before the board. Sattaur has been accused of leaking tax payers’ information, backdating his pension plan among other things.

In a statement to the media on Friday, he said that he was asked to settle taxpayers’

cases for meager sums, promote under qualified persons and those who had questionable records of service and were investigated as well as rehire persons who were dismissed for corrupt practices since the new government took over. Additionally, the former GRA boss said that he had to ignore the fact that taxpayers’ files including that belonging to Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan being photocopied and taken out of the agency by a person known to him.

“Soon after the new government was installed… it had become painfully obvious to me that I would be unable to act professionally, as I am accustomed to in the position of Commissioner General,” Sattaur said in a statement. But an employee of the GRA in a letter to the editor chided Sattaur for

figure, maim, or cause them grievous bodily harm.

Another charge detailed that, on the day in question, Marks had in his possession a .32 pistol and 10 matching live rounds of ammunition when he was not the holder of a firearm licence.

Another charge detailed that on December 3, at Golden Grove, EBD, while being armed with a hand gun, Marks robbed Collin Semple of two cellular phones valued at $31,000, and looted the phone of Kamacie Semple, valued at $20,000.

On November 20, at Grove, EBD, Marks allegedly held Dracaena Melville at gunpoint and relieved her of all her gold jewellery, totalling more than $250,000.

Marks was also charged with allegedly robbing Jachis statements and noted that under Sattaur’s watch many illegal operations allegedly took place.

“Under your watch the GRA and the country was losing billions of dollars in revenues since you in your capacity as CG had the power to choose who the GRA should or should not go after. There are a few companies that paid little or no taxes and when the time arose for them to pay taxes

Please turn to page 10

queline Melville of her gold jewellery, her cellular phone, and cash to the total value of $845,000.

In addition, he was charged with discharging a loaded firearm at Arlington Samuels with intent to disfigure, maim, or cause him grievous bodily harm. This act was committed when Samuels, a licensed firearm holder, went to the rescue of the Melvilles.

Magistrate Daily instituted the maximum penalties attached to the charges, citing that the matters were gun-related and she needed to prohibit others who contemplated committing similar offences.

Marks was sentenced to 5 years for each of the five counts of robbery; three years each for the two counts of being in possession of an unli-

censed gun and ammunition; and five years for each of the four counts of discharging a loaded firearm.

Informed of his 51-year sentence, Marks began to laugh; and when told that he would only be serving a maximum of 5 years, since the sentences would run concurrently, he began to laugh louder.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Government Op Ed

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial

“I am sorry and I’ll fix it”

THE Information Age is not only fascinating, given its limitless opportunities and possibilities; it is also fascinating for the fact that it allows persons to have ringside seats to what is taking place in other societies.

This access presents opportunities to follow and learn about issues and how they are handled, and in instances, we at home can learn from the experiences of others.

“I am sorry and I’ll fix it”. These seven loaded words were uttered by Michigan Governor Rick Snyder in his annual State of the State Address on Tuesday, 19th January. This acceptance of responsibility has to do with the present crisis in Flint, where the water has been found to be contaminated with dangerously high levels of lead, which carries dire health consequences for users. The problem has its genesis in the “Emergency Manager Law” which was first passed in 2011, overturned in 2012 by the voters, and another passed in 2013. This law seeks, among other things, to empower the governor to appoint financial managers to oversee institutions encountering financial difficulties, where he deems it necessary. This power has been condemned in quarters, given it allows the governor to overrule elected leaders and impose his will on communities.

Under this law, the governor appointed a financial manager to oversee Flint’s water system, taking the responsibility out of the hands of the local government; and in this attempt at cost-cutting, the quality of the water became compromised.

Earlier tests discovered E. coli and faecal bacteria in the water; and later, elevated levels of lead in the blood. It was also found that the water had high levels of total trihalomethanes and did not confirm to the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. The Environmental Protection Agency has declared that the contaminated water threatens “liver, kidney or central nervous system problems; [and] increased risk of cancer.”

Residents have reported suffering from vomiting, hair loss, and diarrhoea.

What is egregious about this matter is that, even as evidence of the threat the water posed was made public by environmentalist, paediatricians and researchers, and residents were complaining of the funny smell and effects suffered from usage, the government was telling residents it was safe to use.

Further fallout from this crisis will see children having to deal with brain problems and behavioural issues for the rest of their lives. This is a crisis of epic proportions, and it is bound to have long term socio-economic and political impact and ramifications. Among other things, it shows a clear case of imposition of a person’s will and disregard for the will and voices of the people. In a militant society, this issue also carries racial and political overtones. 56.6 percent of Flint’s population is Black, and though Michigan is generally considered a blue (Democratic) state, Republicans are mindful of turning it red.

Thus it came as no surprise that Republican and Democratic presidential contenders have seen the importance of weighing in on this crisis, with some blasting the governor and calling for his resignation.

With that being said, outside of President Barack Obama declaring, on 16th, Flint’s water crisis a national emergency -- which allows the federal government to coordinate relief and channel resources to arrest the situation -- there are two other bright spots. The recent acceptance by the governor of the problem, his apology and commitment to fix it, and action on 22nd to restore some power to the mayor to deal with the water system, are positive indicators.

There are many morals to this story for us on the outside looking in. We invite readers to deduct theirs. This notwithstanding, what is instructive is the Governor’s contrition.

Though ours is not a culture wherein persons are known to own up to actions gone wrong and commit to fixing them, it does not mean that this cannot become a feature in our daily experience.

Rationalising Sugar in Guyana: practical solutions to rescuing the industry Part 2

In Part one of this op ed, we examine the state of the Wales sugar factory and some of the factors which resulted in GuySuCo reaching the unavoidable position that, as of 2017, the operations of the Wales factory will be merged with the Uitvlugt factory.

With regard to the Wales lands, GuySuCo will explore the feasibility of use for diversification ventures which are aimed at wealth creation and the generation of employment. This is aligned with the objectives which seek to ensure job security for as many sugar workers as possible, while workers who will be negatively affected will have a variety of options in the diversification drive, so

as to continue to earn a living from the land, though from other crops.

This effort is necessary for the overall sustenance of the sugar industry, and all stakeholders who have the best interest of the workers will see the wisdom in ensuring that the operations are streamlined for the purposes of efficiency, in order to maximise production to bring it to a level where the monthly and annual targets are achieved.

The stark reality is that, given the present configuration of the sugar industry, its existing cost structure and the outlook for sugar prices, GuySuCo is projected to suffer losses in each of the next 10 years. The sugar industry could only be saved if the industry is rationalised and its

cost structure changed. Even with this, given the outlook for sugar prices, profitability would be extremely difficult.

It is therefore obvious that, to sustain the sugar industry, the business of GuySuCo must return a profit, and this can only be realised if a reorganised sugar business is complemented by meaningful diversification.

It would be most imprudent for GuySuCo to continue pouring scarce resources into the seriously run down and inefficient Wales sugar estate, which effectively means denying better performing estates these resources and putting the jobs of the workers at those estates in jeopardy.

Such action will also result in the further running down of these estates and their eventual and inevita-

ble demise. No caring and responsible government will pursue such action, which will hurt thousands of sugar workers. Decisions have to be made for the greater good, for the future viability of the industry and the security of employment for the majority of the workforce. Sometimes decisions of this nature are unpopular, difficult to accept, but they are for the greater good of the industry, of the larger workforce, and for the nation as a whole. It cannot be expected that the government will continue to facilitate the haemorrhaging of taxpayer dollars to prop up and bail out the sugar industry indefinitely without the industry taking positive action to regularise its operations.

Sattaur turned a blind eye Dear Editor, I NOTE, with disbelief, the revelations made by former GRA Commissioner-General Mr. Khurshid Sattaur, in the Kaieteur News of Saturday, January 23, 2016, about him being asked to do illegal things under this present administration.

As an (alleged) employee of the GRA, I would like this newspaper to permit me space to respond to each “illegal things” the former tax boss made mention of.

First off, Mr. Sattaur (allegedly) said he was asked to settle taxpayers’ cases for meagre sums, which would have cost the country billions of dollars in revenue.

Under your watch, Mr Sattaur, the GRA and the country were (allegedly) losing billions of dollars in revenue, since you, in your capacity as CG, had the power to choose whom the GRA should or should not go after.

There are a few companies that allegedly paid little or no taxes, and when the time arose for them to pay taxes, the heads for certain sections would (allegedly) have meetings with those companies and come to some arrangement, especially when they have to get a compliance or some document that would entail them not owing the GRA any money, or are in the process, via payment arrangement, of settling their liabilities.

One section that deals with payment arrangement is the Debt Management Division, and upon instruction, certain persons were allegedly allowed to access compliance certificates upon their assurance they would settle the sums due. Low and behold, some of those companies -- and at times individuals

– would (allegedly) not honour their obligation. On the other hand, the Debt Management Division would (allegedly) pursue certain companies and individuals to pay sums that weren’t even a fraction of what some of the “big boys” owed before they get a compliance certificate.

PROMOTING PERSONS Promoting persons who did not have the requisite qualifications and who were acting for a considerable period before they were suitably qualified.

Under your watch, Mr. Sattaur, the same things were (allegedly) happening.

When the Intelligence section was “revived” in 2012, after the last scandal, a senior manager (allegedly) chose the staff that he knew from doing ACCA. Persons were called for interviews, and surprisingly, persons who had already finished level 2 ACCA and had the relevant experience were overlooked, whilst persons from Debt Management who (allegedly) didn’t complete the level 2 ACCA and certainly didn’t have the relevant experience, along with other persons from the Examinations Division and other sections, were selected.

Persons complained, since this was unfair, but who listened? I will answer that: Nobody, since these underqualified and under-experienced individuals were (allegedly) selected by their friend.

Further, the Head (ag) of the Debt Management Division is (allegedly) still underqualified for that position, even though he may have the relevant experience. I’m certain that staff under this Head (ag) may be more qualified.

Nothing has, for many years, (allegedly) been done to correct this.

Also, can you explain how a female

staff who is listed as a friend of yours was placed in charge of the Diamond Branch over persons that (allegedly) were way more qualified and certainly had a ton of experience more than that individual, in areas that would have been relevant to ensure the proper functioning of that office?

Mr Sattaur, by your action and your (alleged) reluctance to do the right thing, to pass instructions so the right procedures were followed, many staffers were left feeling frustrated, since there was no one to listen to their concerns.

BIASED TREATMENT Besides, under your watch, Mr. Sattaur, worse (allegedly) occurred. The Remission division had many scandals, relating in particular to getting duty-free letters. The individual who was heading that division, when one or more of those scandals (allegedly) occurred, had (allegedly) been reassigned to the Communications Division in the capacity of senior manager. This same senior manager has (allegedly) been accused many times over of “spiting” persons that would not pay up.

You also raised the issue of rehiring persons who were previously dismissed for corrupt practices and placing them in senior positions. I am in agreement with you on this, since something had to have been proven before they were sent off, and the persons that were re-hired were (allegedly) involved in big scandals. But how many persons under your watch were not involved in schemes and were not fired?

Accusations from taxpayers about staff from the Audit Division (allegedly) collecting money to understate audit Continued on page 7 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

DTL fixes faulty sawmill …to resume operations shortly DEMERARA Timbers Limited (DTL) said it has corrected a safety defect to its sawmill, and will soon resume operations and re-install the more than 40 workers it was forced to lay off temporarily.

This was communicated to officials of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) when they met with DTL personnel on Monday, the Ministry of Natural Resources said in a statement.

Changes to the saw mill were in keeping with Occupational Health & Safety regulations.

The company indicted to the GFC that once the greenlight is given, operations will resume and the 45 affected employees, who currently receive part-payment, will be reinstalled.

The ministry’s statement said the meeting between GFC and the timber company was mandated by Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, following a visit by himself and Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, to the DTL Mabu-

ra Hill, Region 10 location recently.

The ministers had made an impromptu visit to the location after reading a report in the Guyana Chronicle that 45 workers’ jobs were in limbo. While the company’s official -- Kwangsiong Chuo -- had assured the ministers that the workers were being paid part of their salaries and were not in danger of losing their jobs, senior officials of the company were invited to a meeting with GFC for a full assessment of its operation in Guyana.

The move by the company to have the 45 workers off the job followed a December 10, 2015 inspection of its location by a team led by Minister Broomes, where it was found that the company was in breach of Chapter 99 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Chief among the issues raised by Minister Broomes, and which were communicated to DTL in writing, was the fact that a sawmill operator was operating a lever without adequate safety

provisions. Upon instruction, the company ceased its operations to rectify the breaches, and all employees were paid 50% of their salaries between December 19th, 2015 and January 3rd, 2016.

From January 8th, 2016, the 45 affected workers received 30% of their salaries, as per agreement with their union, Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU).

During the meeting with GFC, the company’s officials advised that the major safety issue was rectified with a “guard” housing put in place to guarantee the safety of the worker. The company is now awaiting the go-ahead from the Ministry of Social Protection to re-commence work.

Additionally, GFC has requested that the company prepare a comprehensive business plan, since it was found that the company was operating at less than 40% of total harvesting capacity. The business plan will determine whether the company’s forestry lease will be renewed by the Commission.

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Unions want economic impact study on Wales factory rationalisation THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU); the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), and the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) -– all representing workers in the sugar industry -- have registered their strong opposition to the decision to close the Wales sugar factory at the end of the second crop this year (2016).

The unions are also calling for a social and economic impact study to be conducted on the importance of the Wales estate. Despite the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s revelations of the estate’s poor economic performance over the years, the unions, at a press conference held at the NAACIE Building on Monday, declared they want such a study to focus on whether the workers should plant fruits and vegetables, and whether the factory workers would require training.

“We want to see that the whole process of the closure halted so that we could have discussions and consultations; so we wouldn’t want to advise what should be the venture.

A study ought to be done to ensure that the people are gainfully occupied and they would

Sattaur turned a... findings, Customs Officers (allegedly) collecting money to push people’s documents, and (alleged) runnings in the Enforcement Division have all fallen on deaf ears. Those things warranted investigation, but many times they were (allegedly) swept under the rug.

So, in light of the above mentioned, I would like to enlighten you, Mr. Sattaur, that what you are crying about now, you (allegedly) were part and parcel of the same things under the previous administration. You (allegedly) used to talk to subordinates in a manner not suited for someone who held a position like yours. If given the chance, I’m certain the response that I have provided would (perhaps) be confirmed by many of my co-workers.

I’m kindly asking the new board to not fall asleep -- like the previous board (had allegedly done) -- on matters that can affect the performance of all members of staff -- from the Commis-

sioner General right down to the cleaners, since we all play an important role in the daily effective functioning of the activities of the GRA. Happy employees are productive employees, and that’s what you want; and that’s what will take us forward. A great step was taken when you took time out of your busy schedule to listen to the voice of all staff last year, when a meeting was held at the Cultural Centre.

Thank you all, and we, the staff of GRA, look forward to a productive working relationship with you.

Further, I would like to recommend that persons who are overly qualified and have the relevant experience be taken into consideration for promotion, instead of hiring off the road persons who may very well have the same qualifications but not the experience.

There are many persons within the GRA who (allegedly) spent money and invested a lot of time to acquire qualifications, and at the end,

they are (allegedly) being overlooked when vacancies arise. Also, all divisions within the GRA, from time to time, need to be trained so they become up-to-date with whatever changes may occur within the GRA; since, many times, due to lack of understanding or proper training, mistakes are made and they can cause delay in the executing of duties to provide service to the public, and also in the collection of revenue.

Finally, like I stated above, I and a lot of other members of staff are (allegedly) not in agreement

From page 6

with persons being re-hired who were (allegedly) dismissed for matters that are well known to the public.

There are many persons who need jobs who are university graduates or holders of ACCA qualifications.

They don’t have a job, so let’s give them a chance.

Regards, GRA STAFFER

be able to earn as much as they are earning now,” GAWU President Komal Chand said.

The unions also said the closure of the factory will be yet another blow to workers of the sugar industry. ”This measure will certainly put hundreds of workers on the breadline, and drive very many into impoverishment. It is our considered view that, apart from the painful effects on those workers directly affected, this issue also has far-reaching economic and social implications.”

The union also said that given the serious consequences attendant to the closure, and that the first steps towards closure have and are being taken, “we express our disappointment that Member of Parliament Komal Chand of GAWU could not have this matter debated in the National Assembly, as he sought to do at its session on (Thursday), January 21, 2016. We are of the view that since the closure process has begun, now is the best time for it to be raised in fora like our National Assembly, so that a clear mistake can be corrected and another wrong to the workers and others be prevented.”

The unions say the decision to close Wales came as a surprise to them, as it is not in keeping with the relevant recommendation of the Sugar Commission of Inquiry (CoI), which pointedly saw the need for a study which should guide any closure decision.

It also varies from the reported sentiments coming from President David Granger, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, and Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder, references of which have been previously stated by the GAWU, the unions have said.

MEETING The unions noted that at a meeting last Wednesday, summoned by the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc (GuySuCo) and attended by GAWU and NAACIE, the delegation representing the management and also, apparently, GuySuCo’s Board, informed the unions that a decision has been made to effect the closure of Wales Estate.

While we do not want to be disrespectful to the delegation sent to bring the disturbing information to us, we nevertheless feel constrained to observe that they were unable to provide answers germane to the issue. This exercise only served to fuel the feeling that we, and the Guyanese public, are not getting the full story surrounding this clearly rash decision, uninformed by any credible study, the unions have said.

The unions said that, from the January 20, 2016 meeting with GuySuCo’s personnel, GAWU and NAACIE were informed also that the intention was to absorb some of the workers at Uitvlugt estate, others are to be made redundant, and some others are to be given jobs in a business venture which they could not tell us about.

“Again, we formed the view that the hazy ideas give indicators that the matter was not fully thought out.

We also believe that such hazy ideas, in all likelihood, cannot be successfully effected. Clearly, there is no worthwhile plan at this time.

But if they have a plan, then let GuySuCo and the Government make it public.

People’s lives, their future and investments are now threatened with the prospect of full closure in a matter of months.”

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

US$15M anti-crime plan launched

By Alva Solomon THE creation of rooms in police stations to allow for confidentiality on issues, especially domestic violence cases forms part of the US$15 million anti-crime plan launched Monday.

The plan, dubbed the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP), is funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and is aimed at reducing crime and violence in Guyana, especially in a number of communities and among youths.

Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, while addressing those gathered at the Marriot Hotel, Georgetown launch, said that around 18 police stations across the country have been targeted for rehabilitative work to enhance their overall ambience.

He said the focus will be on the inquiries offices area.

He pointed to the importance of the confidentiality factor which will assist the reporting process at the identified police stations. “Our structure right now doesn’t lend towards that kind of reporting “, he said.

According to Ramjattan, while it is obligatory to address problems related to public security in an effort to safeguard the rights and well-being of their citizens, emerging trends indicate that the government /citizen partnership is most effective in tackling crime and violence because of its multi-faceted nature. “I do not have to emphasize how crime and violence is major obstacle to human, social and eco development and peaceful socio-existence,” he said.

Over the past decade and a half, Ramjattan said that crime and violence have become legitimate issues of concern for everyone. He said that instances of crime increased dramatically from the year 2000, which averaged 9.9 for every 100,000 persons, to more than double that figure at end of 2014.

In 2013, robbery rates were recorded at 214 for

every 100,000 persons while domestic violence was recorded at 431 for every 100,000 persons. Ramjattan said that the perception of insecurity increased from 34% in 2006 to almost 53% in 2014 in Region 4 and 39% to 50% in Region 6. He added that figures on the perception of police not doing a good job rose from 26% in 2005

into crime are improving.

He said that high offender recidivism, prevalence of social norms that tolerate use of violence among intimate partners and limited participation by community members in resolving community problems are part of the issue. “Probably that is the reason why we have some of the highest, if not the highest rate

ethic of Guyana. “We literally wait. We use to plant the bora, but now we wait for that US$100 that will come in a months’ time (from overseas) and we hardly do the things that we would want to do”, he said adding that the youths of today do not appreciate work as a source of wealth.

To this end, he said it is

it includes strengthening of human resource management tools and mechanisms and expansion of integrated crime installation to cover all police sub-divisions and develop multi-sector domestic violence protocols.

The component also includes the installation of strategically placed cameras as part of the integrated sur-

Public Security Minister , Khemraj Ramjattan addressing the launching ceremony of the CSSP programme yesterday morning at the Marriot Hotel. At his left is Permanent Secretary, Daneilla Mc Calmon , CSSP Project coordinator , Clement Henry , and IDB Country Representative , Sophie Makonnen. to almost 43% in 2014. In addition, citizen’s willingness to get involved in combating crime deceased from 75% in 2006 to 57% in 2014 in Region 4. He said the figures are more damning in other regions.

Ramjattan noted that the figures were obtained from phase one of the CSSP programe which as launched under the previous administration. “That assessment report is an important one,” he said, adding that they indicate where the country is in relation to crime. Ramjattan said that the issue of crime in Guyana is compounded by high incidence of violent behaviors at the community level, relatively low levels trust in law enforcement agencies based on perception reports, and low level of effectiveness. He indicated however, that investigations

of suicide in the world “, he posited. The Public Security Minister noted that Guyana also has the highest migration and unemployment rates in the Caribbean, according to statistics released by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in 2014.

“This is indeed a sad state of affairs and so this programme , CCST has come at an opportune time “, he added , as he alluded to its purpose of tackling the issue of crime and violence by assisting in the reduction of risk factors and promoting and strengthening the protective factors.

He said that the US$15M fund for the project is a significant investment to remove crime, which he described as a formidable obstacle to development. Ramjattan noted that migration levels have damaged the work

important to build at the community levels to re-inculcate some of the values which have been lost within the society.

He said that the community prevention component of the programme , though extensive, is a plus since it points to activities for creating economic inclusion for at-risk youths. “We have to do more vocational training, job readiness, entrepreneurship and of course rapid impact training such as multipurpose structures”, he added, noting that this will assist youths in the wider community.

He said that component two of the programme , which aims to improve the capacity of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will greatly improve law enforcement effectiveness in investigating and preventing crime and violence. He said that

veillance and patrol management system, called the “Smart City” programme.

“It’s where we literally on a big screen, see from many cameras which we want placed in all parts of the city and connected to a command center where we literally are going to be seeing what’s happening in our city”, he said.

“This surveillance technology will enhance law enforcement effectiveness by providing up to date effectiveness”, he added. Ramjattan said that the interventions implemented under the CSSP programme will complement the existing programmes aimed at reducing crime and violence, adding that the authorities have already commenced a new drug strategy plan while work will begin on the setting up of a task force to address suicides, trafficking in persons among

other issues.

Ramjattan said that the authorities will continue to robustly fight against issues such as trafficking of drugs and fire arms as well as to capture dangerous persons who are intent on breaking the law.

According to the Minister, to successfully transform the security landscape, implementation of the CSSP programme requires national ownership as he identified the IDB for its support to the sector. “This is a national undertaking”, he said.

Project Coordinator, Clement Henry told those gathered that crime and violence have become increasingly recognised as impacting development both locally and internationally. In addressing the issue, he said that both the government and the IDB have agreed to intervene with clusters aimed at reducing crime and violence.

Earlier, Sophie Makonnen , IDB Country Representative noted that in Guyana , the Caribbean and Latin America , crime has been a discerning issue facing all stakeholders .

She said the CSSP programme demonstrates the bank’s commitment to support the government towards reducing /combating crime and violence through a comprehensive approach which combines a preventive strategy. She added that crime and violence poses serious socio- economic challenges to the economies in the region. The CSSP project will address three specific problems: the high incidence of violent behaviour at the community level; low Guyana Police Force (GPF) effectiveness to prevent and investigate crime at the national level; and the high number of repeat offenders at the national level. It was signed last February by the previous administration, with rigid safeguards against corruption to ensure prudent spending and guard against corruption.

Matthew’s Ridge man charged with possession of illegal firearm A TWENTY-ONE year old resident of Matthew’s Ridge was Monday remanded by city magistrate Judy Latchman on a charge of illegal possession of firearm.

Richard Edwards was returned to custody after bail was refused. Police claimed that on January 19, Edwards was found with the gun but did not have a licence.

Police Prosecutor, Shawn Gonsalves told the court that the defendant was seen with the firearm and after he was alerted about the Police’s presence he began to run.

He later dropped the gun and continued to run. The police later retrieved the gun and Edwards was subsequently arrested.

However, the defence counsel stated that his client was

not in possession of the firearm but the police were chasing a group of men and when they caught up with him they arrested him for the firearm that was found.

Edwards was remanded to prison and the matter was transferred before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for assigning on February 4.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

SAFE DROP - Sattaur drops off GRA safe at Audit Office

By Ariana Gordon In what is being seen a bizzare move, Former Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Khurshid Sattaur on Monday morning dropped the safe belonging to the Revenue Authority to the Auditor General’s Office, High Street Kingston.

When the Guyana Chronicle arrived on the scene just before noon, the open safe was sitting in the compound of the High Street office under watch by a security guard and staff of the entity. Workers of the GRA were seen peeping through their windows in anticipation of officials of the Revenue Authority collecting the safe.

“He drop it off at around 10:30 time. He didn’t spend long; just where you see it is where he drop it off,” an eyewitness told this publication.

GRA’s Chairman, Rawle Lucas in an invited comment could not provide a reason why Sattaur took the safe to the Auditor General’s office. “I am aware,” was the response provided when asked to confirm that the safe was indeed delivered to the AG’s.

“The safe should have been brought to GRA…the proper thing to do was to bring it to the GRA and not the AG’s office,” Lucas told Guyana Chronicle.

“I don’t know why the former Commissioner General would take it there,” he remarked. The Revenue Authority Chairman said he has no idea what the contents of the safe were, noting that the safe was in Sattaur’s possession for a number of years.

“I have no idea as to what the contents of the safe were when it went missing,” he said in answering questions on the integrity of the data stored in the safe. He said one has to be cautious when addressing the integrity of the data stored in the safe as there is no certainty about what it contained when it went missing.

However, notwithstanding the issues surrounding the return of the safe, it is in safe keeping at the Revenue Authority.

“As soon as we learned it was taken to the Auditor General’s

office, staff was sent over and they collected it…it is now stored as property of the GRA.” Last week, at a press briefing Lucas revealed that Sattaur was fired from the Authority because he disclosed tax payers’ information and stored GRA’s data at his home in a safe.

Sattaur, according to the board admitted to breaching his oath of office just one month prior to the May 2015 General Elections by disclosing a taxpayer’s information to another without authorisation.

“The board learnt that approximately one month before the May 2015 elections Mr. Sattaur divulged sensitive information of a Guyanese tax payer to a person who was not authorized to receive such information,” said Lucas last Friday.

The board, through its investigation concluded that the “transaction had no benefit to the people of Guyana and only for Mr Sattaur himself.”

Speaking specifically about the safe, the GRA Chair said, “The safe was supposed to be under the control of the head of the Information and technology division of the GRA but was found to be at Mr Sattaur’s residence. The safe was normally used for Former Commissioner storing confidential tax payers’ data.”

General, Sattaur had told the board Khurshid Sattaur that the safe was lodged at his house because his son, an employee of GRA at the time, worked in the IT department.

However, Sattaur in defence issued a statement to the media refuting the statements made by Lucas. He said that GRA’s data was required to be stored at a safe place offsite.

This safe, believed to have once stored confidential files of the country’s revenue authority, was dropped off at the office of Auditor General in Kingston, Georgetown Monday morning. Officials there knew nothing of it.

According to GRA’s former head, his house was chosen because his son was employed at the entity as a senior official and had responsibility for storing the data offsite.

“This is a situation that the previous board and government did not find offensive and distrustful, as a temporary measure,” he noted. Sattaur explained that the storage of data at his house was abandoned approximately five years ago.

“The use of the safe was discontinued years ago when a new back-up site was created at another location, but the safe continued to remain at my home to store my GRA weapon and ammunition up until recently,” Mr Sattaur said in the statement.

Guards up against Zika-induced virus

By Svetlana Marshall THERE has been no additional case of the Zika virus in Guyana, as has been confirmed by additional samples taken, but the Public Health Ministry is now concerned that the mosquito-borne virus is being linked to some rare but serious cases of the Guillain-Barre Syndrome, which causes paralysis.

Late last year, the Zika fever was linked to a spike in cases of micro-encephalitis -– an inflammation of the brain contracted in the first months of pregnancy.

Even as thousands of babies in Brazil continue to be born with this defect, health authorities there are now battling with hundreds of cases of paralysis, which is reportedly linked to the Zika virus. After contracting the Zika virus, persons have allegedly been paralysed for weeks.

Guyana’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud, told reporters on Monday that the Public Health Ministry is now investigating all aspects of this virus, given the concerns raised in neighbouring Brazil and Suriname.

“In addition to this developmental abnormality that women who are in their early stages of pregnancy (and) contract Zika virus experience, there is this other neurological problem where, following a

brief Zika infection, they develop this paralysis,” the CMO explained.

He said the Public Health Ministry has in place a strong surveillance system to monitor the situation.

Since the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) confirmed the first case of Zika virus in Guyana, on January 12, three lots of additional samples have been taken. The first two lots have already been sent to CARPHA to be tested. Even as it awaits the results, the Public Health Ministry has intensified its sensitisation programme.

In its quest to help pregnant women protect themselves from being bitten by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, the Public Health Ministry has commenced distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets across Guyana.

The Zika virus can cause significant illnesses in severe cases. In some cases, co-infection of Zika and dengue can occur, and may lead to autoimmune diseases, where the immune system turns on itself and starts destroying different cells, leading to possible nerve and bleeding disorders.

However, most persons affected with Zika will have only a mild course of illness, with symptoms similar to dengue, and will recover in a few days.

Guyana has been added to the list of Caribbean

countries contained in the travel advisory issued by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last week, in which pregnant women are asked to avoid visiting those countries because of the presence of the mosquito-borne Zika virus.

The other countries listed in that advisory are Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico.

The Zika virus is transmitted by Aedes Aegypti mosquito

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

PPP ducks role in collapse of sugar

By Navendra Seoraj

THE Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has evaded questions regarding the collapse of the sugar industry during its time in office, including the closure of two East Demerara estates.

In fact, Rohee suggested on Monday that he was not going to lump the closure of the LBI and Diamond estates under the Jagdeo presidency with the current government’s decision to close the Wales estate at the end of this year’s crop.

“The media is seeking to make a comparative analysis of two different situations under two different circumstances,” Rohee answered when questioned by reporters at Freedom House, the PPP’s Robb Street, Georgetown headquarters.

Apart from the closure of the two estates, the US$200 million Skeldon sugar estate -– the most expensive public project in Guyana’s history – has never fulfilled its role of saving the industry under the PPP. The PPP continues to call for a reversal of the decision to close Wales, with Rohee arguing that a Commission of Inquiry, into the sugar industry -- which it shunned -- did not recommend closure of any estate.

“The President gave no indication about his administra-

tion’s plans for the sugar industry, neither did he comment on the recommendations from the CoI. Granger delivered his address a mere four days before the announcement to close the Wales sugar estate,” Rohee contended.

“Closure of Wales sugar estate will have a deleterious social, psychological and economic impact on the people and their livelihoods in that community,” Rohee further argued.

PPP General Secretary State Minister Joseph HarClement Rohee mon recently told reporters that the Wales estate was an “economic nightmare”, and its closure was the best option.

Agriculture Minister Noel Holder has said it would cost taxpayers an average of $2 billion to keep the estate up and running.

Government has said that the Wales estate is projected to make a loss of between G$1.6 billion and $1.9 billion in 2016; and this, coupled with the extent of refurbishment it needs, has rendered the estate prohibitively costly to maintain.

Additionally, government has said that Wales is by far the estate in the poorest shape, with 60% of its drainage and irrigation infrastructure dilapidated; 75% of the bridges are in poor shape; the cultivation is also in poor condition, and the factory is old and in need of major investment.

The Ministry of Agriculture has also acknowledged that the investment required to refurbish Wales Estate is significant, and the finances are regrettably not available to undertake that task.

The MoA has noted that diverting funds from the other estates to keep Wales afloat would seriously jeopardise the future of those estates, and has said that that situation cannot be allowed to happen.

“The truth is that it is impossible to make sugar production at Wales viable. This is worsened by the unfavourable outlook for sugar prices on the world market for the foreseeable future,” Director of Public Information, Imran Khan, wrote in an OP-ED article in this newspaper earlier this week.

Women’s support being canvassed for LGE

By Svetlana Marshall Guyanese Women Roundtable (GWR) is on a mission to effectively equip women of all strata of society with the requisite skills and knowledge needed to play an integral role in Local Government Elections (LGE).

Although women account for more than 50 per cent of Guyana’s population, they continue to be under-represented in the area of governance.

As a result, the GWR has launched an aggressive campaign to increase women’s participation in local government as a critical strategy for change. Though the

“News to me” From page 5

the Heads for certain sections would have meetings with these companies and come to some arrangement, especially when they have to get a compliance or some document that would entail they don’t owe the GRA any money or are in the process via payment arrangement to settle the amounts,” the staff who asked not to be named said.

According to the staff many of the companies and individuals the arrangements were made with failed to honour their obligation. On the issue of promoting persons who were unqualified for the posts but were acting for a long time, the employee said “Under your watch the same things were happening.” The Letter writer noted that the promotion of persons with questionable records of service also occurred under Sattaur’s leadership and said too that while in agreement with Sattaur’s position on the rehiring of persons who were previously dismissed due to corrupt practices there were many persons who worked with Sattaur and were corrupt were not fired.

“But how many persons under your watch were not involved in schemes and they were not fired. Accusations from taxpayers about staff from the Audit Division collecting money to understate audit findings, Customs Officer collecting money to push people’s documents, and runnings in the Enforcement Division have all fallen on deaf ears. Those things warranted investigation but many times they were swept under the rug,” said the letter writer.

The employee said Sattaur was “part and parcel” of the same deeds he is complaining of under the previous administration. “You use to talk to subordinates in a manner not suited for someone who held a position like yours.”

The staff called on the new Board of Directors “not to fall asleep like the previous board” on matters that can affect the performance of all GRA workers. “Happy employees are productive employees and that’s what you want and that’s what will take us forward. A great step was taken when you took time out of your busy schedule to listen to the voice of all staff last year when a meeting was held at the Cultural Centre,” the letter to the editor stated.

non-governmental organisaton will not be contesting the LGE as a voluntary group on March 18, 10 of its members would be contesting the elections within their respective constituencies under different groupings.

On Monday, GWR Director Roslyn Wade told media operatives that the organisation’s civic engagement will place special emphasis on the role of women in LGE under the theme “Women navigating a space in local government: If not, why not, because not.”

Director and Founder of Monique’s Caring Hands, the local branch of Caribbean People International Collective Inc (CPIC), Dr Dawn Steward who also serves as GWR Chairperson, said many women lack the confidence needed to participate in Local Government.

It was explained that while women are good at voting and mobilising people, many shy away holding high positions in the Local Government system. As such, the GWR would be reaching out to women throughout Guyana.

“It is important for us during this short cycle to develop specific training activities targeting women in all regions, allowing them to strengthen their self-esteem and provide them with the necessary skills to be able to understand such local policies, as budget, strategic plans, community development, and community analysis,” Dr Stewart explained.

She pointed out that Local Government sets the foundation for women to play a greater role in the governance of the country.

Once elected into office, GWR members would be working with their respective communities to address a number of issues.

COMMUNITY APPROACH “What we intend to do is to have the community involved in solving the problem because I don’t believe that we can solve the problem, I believe that all the community, all of us can solve the problem. So they got

to buy into it and we have to develop the strategies… to rid these problems,” the Monique’s Caring Hands founder said.

Based on her one-on-one consultations with residents, she said education, crime, the Guyana Police Force, garbage pollution and the environment, drug and alcohol abuse and poor parking were among key issues that surfaced.

She also noted that the issue of mental health, in particular suicide, cannot be ignored.

In addressing these issues, she said there is need for a cultural shift.

“Bearing in mind that we haven’t had Local Government Elections for many, many years, so really we haven’t had governance… so there is going to be a shift but it will be very difficult now to tell the guys that they need to park properly, they can’t throw the garbage in front of the house and they can’t throw up a shed where ever they feel like throwing up a shed. So there is going to be a cultural shift that we all have to employ,” Dr Steward explained.

Women’s involvement in direct elections has been proven to demonstrate a more open society, responsive to changing social realities and the determination of women to become a part of mainstream politics.

According to the organisation, the performance of these women in the local councils will improve the perception about women’s ability to participate in governance and produce results for their constituencies.

Additionally, it was explained that women can best fulfill their personal, family and community responsibilities when they have equal access to local government services and programmes.

Dr Stewart was supported by CPIC Monique’s Director Roselyn Wade, GWR Secretary Pamela Welch and GWR members Denise Mitchell and Dawn Braithwaite.

The GWR is also partnering with Youth for Local Government, another voluntary group that will be contesting this year’s Local Government Elections.

Director and Founder of CPIC Monique’s Caring Hands, Dr Dawn Steward explaining the importance of Local Government Elections in the presence of GWR Director Roslyn Wade (L) and Pamela Welch and Denise Mitchell (R)

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

This Week

50 Years Ago

C

HINESE in British Guiana celebrated their New Year with a lavish dinner at the Chinese Association Hall on Brickdam (January 23, 1966), to which several prominent people were invited. Among the invitees were the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Mr A.P Alleyne, who is pictured second from left. To Mr Alleyne’s left are Mrs P. D’Aguiar, wife of the Finance Minister; Mr Chow Kee, President of the Association; and Mr P.S Thirsk, Deputy Governor.

Miner charged for ganja possession PATRICK Harris of East Bank Demerara was Monday placed on $50,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for possession of marijuana. Harris, 38, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

According to his lawyer, Mr. Paul Fung-a-fat, the drug, which amounted to 14.6 grammes, was found in a bag full of clothing that the police officers found during a stop-and-search on the Buckhall Road, Essequibo. The lawyer pointed out that none of the clothing belonged to his client, but that the officers claimed that it was his.

Fung-a-Fat, in pleading for bail for the father of three, explained that Harris was the sole bread-winner for his family.

Prosecutor Deniro Jones made no objection to bail. The matter was transferred to the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court for February 9.

Baby sexually molested …man, wife arrested A 17-month-old baby from Corentyne, Berbice was allgedly, sexually molested on Sunday by a neighbour whose house she frequented.

The man, a father of three, was arrested by police on Sunday after the mother of the child collected her and noticed that she was bleeding from her vagina.

Word is that the child’s mother, who lives a house away from where the incident allegedly occurred, heard her cry out and went over to collect her.

She said that when she reached the house, the suspect’s wife was bathing the baby, and she told her the child had fallen down.

The child’s mother said that, for a while now, the baby would usually spend time with the neighbours, and that almost every day they would come to collect her, but she would not go every day. She noted that the suspect’s wife would usually take care of the baby while she was over by them.

“Yesterday morning,” the child’s mother said, “the uncle

pass and call for she; he say he buy a lollipop for her. She went over because I know the lady would keep her.

“The lady (name given) tell me like this baby playing tricks on she; that she fall down, and she see the baby was bleeding. “Me collect she and bring she home, and when me go fuh change she, I see she had plenty blood on her vagina.

“I get frighten and call my sister-in-law, and she said take her to the doctor.”

The young mother said, “When I reach the hospital, the doctor tell me the child was sexually molested; that someone put something inside the baby.”

She then went to the police station, and the suspect, along with his wife, was taken into police custody.

The man was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of his arrest, and remains in custody.

In tears, the distraught mother said she trusted these people, and never thought this would happen to her child.

The Police in Berbice are investigating the incident.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

Gunman heists $1.7M from GLSC

A LONE gunman on Monday morning staged a daring robbery at Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission carting off some $1.7M in cash and cheques from the Government agency.

According to reports, the armed man walked into the Commission, pointed a gun at the cashier and ordered her not to move. The suddenness of the attack left many staffers in shock while others froze in fright. It was reported that the gunman then proceeded to the cashier’s canister, which it was said had $1.3M in cash and about $400,000 in cheques.

He nonchalantly bagged the money, walked calmly out of the complex, where he boarded a waiting vehicle and made good his escape.

After the robber left, an alarm was raised and the police were called in to investigate the robbery.

Commander of ‘A’ Division Clifton Hicken confirmed the incident and indicated that several employees will be questioned in relation to the matter.

These will include those who would have been recently off the job as well as those who were absent on the day of the robbery.

Mr Hicken said the police are concerned with the type of the robbery since it showed no regard by the gunman for the persons who were in the premises at the time, working or conducting business.

The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission has a huge security hut and also prohibits the entrance of persons who

A woman walks up to the GL&SC gate only to learn that the office is closed

bear arms or offensive weapons.

It is not clear if the weapon the bandit had was a real one, and if it was, how he managed to get pass security.

This publication was told by Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission staffers that the security guards at the guard hut are also not armed, and as such, are virtually helpless in a worst case scenario. However, this bit of information could not be confirmed.

The cashier booth at the facility is several meters away from the entrance to the compound.

It is not clear if the receptionist has a panic button that would have alerted the security guards at the gate at the time the bandit was making his was out of the building.

Persons on Monday await the re-opening of the gates to conduct their business

200 turn-key homes this year

By Shirley Thomas

THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) will this year complete and deliver 200 turn-key (finished) homes, as it seeks to bridge the gap between urban and rural communities.

The CHPA’s Chief Development Planner (CDP), Mr Rawle Edinboro, made this disclosure during a recent interaction with the media, when he also spoke about the Authority’s achievements in 2015 and its projections for this year.

“The CHPA’s priority in 2016 is to focus heavily on the whole idea of infrastructural consolidation, or community consolidation. Since we are now part of the Ministry of Communities, we have a clear mandate to embrace community development in a more holistic manner,” he said.

The CHPA will, this year, continue to focus on hinterland housing through the provision of US$3.1M by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

“Through the UNDP, provision has been made in our budget for this to commence in 2016, to the tune of US$3.1M,” Edinboro said.

He added that the focus will be on hinterland housing improvement, recognising that there is need to balance what happens on the coast with the historical neglect of development in the hinterland.

With the assistance of the UNDP again, Guyana has commissioned a National Housing Profile Study which aims to garner very important data which will help to provide the evidence needed to revisit Guyana’s national housing policy.

“We have this Housing Profile Study as a major project in 2016, and that is to commence very soon,” the Chief Development Planner said, noting that Guyana, like many other

countries, is plagued with issues of data and the like; but with the UNDP’s intervention, such issues will be addressed.

TURN KEY HOMES

The CHPA plans to complete and deliver 200 turn-key (finished) homes in 2016, he disclosed.

Having rated the building of turn-key houses as a success story in 2015, Mr Edinboro said the CHPA will continue its focus in this regard in 2016 with a plan to deliver 200 such houses.

An initiative started between June and December 2015 at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara has seen 28 turn-key houses completed and handed over. Prior to 2015, the Authority was basically focusing on distributing land, but in 2015, it considered the notion that people should have access to a complete house/home, particularly since home owners were experiencing much stress in terms of dealing with the contractors and purchasing materials.

Ideally, the acquisition of turn-key homes has been able to remove the stress experienced by home-owners, as attested to by them.

According to Mr Edinboro, home owners have praised the project, and this has given the Authority the impetus to expand the project.

The Authority is also targeting completion of infrastructural works on a new scheme at Five Miles, Bartica.

“In terms of the national priorities now, this is quite in line with the President’s vision and this government’s vision of Bartica becoming a town; and not only a town, but a green town where we are going to embrace more environmentally-friendly methods of development, the CDP said.

ACHIEVEMENTS

At the end of 2015, the CHPA had disbursed $260M under the Government of Guyana Low Income Settlement Scheme.

A separate programme, referred to as the IDB Low Income Programme, had certain elements which are very important for the housing sector. Under that programme, 400 core houses were completed; 208 subsidies were disbursed at hinterland settlements such as Oronoque, Manawarin and White Water in Region One; and Apoteri, Waterman, Annai and other villages in Region Nine.

At the close of 2015, the CHPA had serviced approximately 8,467 house lots nationally. In addition, the CHPA continued its infrastructural provision programme, in which 285 septic tanks were built as part of a public health initiative for the home-owners.

Meanwhile, under the IDB-funded programme, the issue of training and capacity building was addressed. Training was done in the areas of monitoring and evaluation, management, legal education, accounting, customer relations, and urban development.

The government-funded programme was primarily targeted towards infrastructural upgrade, with road improvement being a major component in 2015.

Major success was scored in terms of the titles for lands, with 4,434 titles being distributed to not only beneficiaries in the traditional schemes, but also under the CHPA’s Squatter Regularisation Programme. This includes the development of asphaltic concrete surfaces in Regions Three, Four, Five and Six. Between June and December 2015, a total of 251 house lots were allocated, representing a major increase from previous years.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Essequibo resolves to nip suicide in the bud

By Vanessa Braithwaite

– with the help of aesthetics

WITH the upsurge in suicide-related deaths here, the majority of them originating on the Essequibo Coast, the regional administration there has decided to take matters in hand.

The decision they’ve taken is a bold and innovative one, whereby they propose making recreational parks available throughout the length and breadth of the region, the groundwork of which is already in motion.

These parks, which will be located in various villages throughout the Region, according to Regional Executive Officer, Rupert Hopkinson, will serve as a relaxation area, where residents can enjoy solitude and peace of mind whenever they feel depressed.

Hopkinson told the Guyana Chronicle, there is no place on the whole of the Essequibo Coast where residents, especially the young people, can go of an afternoon or weekend to enjoy some good old fresh air, and perhaps discuss whatever problems they may be having.

It is with this thought in mind, and seeing it as a way of discouraging squatting on government lands, that the whole idea came about, he said.

He posited that recreational facilities such as the ones under construction are sorely needed, as there is a nexus between recreation and happiness. “Recreation produces happiness, and recreation decreases stress,” Hopkinson said. “And there are no recreational parks on the entire Essequibo Coast to produce happiness.”

UNITY PARK But of all the parks currently under contruction throughout the Essequibo Coast, Hopkinson said the one at Unity Village is the biggest of the lot, and the one closest to his heart.

Noting that a total of $6M were allocated to the construction of this massive park, located on a vast plot of land close to the Atlantic Ocean, Hopkinson said it is hoped that the facility will be completed by the end of this year.

When the Guyana Chronicle paid the proposed park a visit, the area had already been de-bushed,

and the soil was being graded preparatory to constructing the many walkways the facility will boast.

The drains and canals have already been cleansed, and the area behind Unity and the neighbouring village cleared, so as to accommodate a trail connecting them to Unity Park.

Solomon Samad, who resides at Maria’s Delight, said he is happy and excited about the construction of the park, as the villages are in need of these recreational facilities.

“I am very happy about what the REO is doing,” Samad said, “because the place was bare bush, and it been looking bad.

Making it big in business

“So, to know that we gon get this park is very good, because is me an meh wife alone; and we could come out one-one afternoon and hang out.”

Another resident, Godfrey James, who was at the time relaxing on the seawall at Unity Village, said he is a constant visitor to the neighbourhood.

He said he goes there to relieve himself from the stress of the day, and to just sit back and relax, and enjoy the tranquility of the Atlantic Ocean.

A GOOD IDEA James sees the initiative as be-

HE’S of the firm belief that education alone will not cut it; that it takes much more to make it to the top in the world of business.

And, perhaps, he does have a valid point there, as he’s been in the business for over 40 years.

Meet Essequibo businessman, Kumar Lallashan, popularly known as ‘Big Bird’, who is currently the owner of several businesses in the village of Charity, on the Essequibo Coast.

Being in business that long, ‘Big Bird’ told the Guyana Chronicle, he is now more than ever reaping the benefits of his hard work.

A true Essequibian at heart, he’s often said he wouldn’t trade it for the world, as it’s there he was born and raised, and it’s there,

ing a good thing, as he will be better able to enjoy this pastime activity, as the area has been cleared of all the bushes and garbage. “I think it is a really good thing to have the parks,” he said, “because I like to come out here. And now I’ll be more encouraged to come out when the park is finshed.”

Kumar Lallashan, called ‘Big Bird’, who hails from Charity, has expressed an interest in providing Unity Park with a food court. Being in the fishing industry, he said the ‘court’ will primarily be a fish shop, though he also plans selling beverages and ice cream.

He said that he has already collaborated with the RDC on providing materials needed for the clearing of the park, as he is fully behind the venture, unlike some other people.

“I feel very good about Unity Park,” Lallashan said, adding: “I had to pull up some people who saying the RDC wasting money. I tell them is ‘stupidness’ wid them, because they had an abandoned place there... And now, look how it look! Beautiful! And is just the initial stage!”

He revealed that the area in question was what he called “a snake haven” before the coming of the park, and was a danger to the neighbouring villages.

There are a total of 12 parks under construction, for which a total of $20M were allocated.

For 2016, there have already been 11 cases of suicide attempts on the Essequibo Coast alone, four of which have proven fatal.

too, that he made his mark in the world of business after initial hardships in life.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Reminiscing on growing up as a lad in the village of Hampton Court, ‘Big Bird’ revealed that he had to drop out of school at a very tender age, as his family was very poor.

“I only went to school up to Standard 6 at the Eighth of May Primary School, because we were very poor, and I had to go out and work because it was hard on my mother,” he said.

His daily earnings back then of the princely sum of $1.25 from doing odd jobs around the village, he said, helped out a lot in the home.

From the age of 15, he said, he knew Turn to page 15 ►

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

A day in the life of a speedboat captain

By Vanessa Braithwaite AS the sun went down, the steady thump in my heart increased with the captain’s every insistence that the boat go faster.

The river’s boisterous waves were playing havoc with my stomach as I gripped the edge of my seat with my now soaking-wet, trembling fist to keep myself from being pitched across the boat.

I prayed with every fibre of my being for this ordeal to come to an end, but every time I tried to remain calm, the boat came under attack again by another angry wave.

It was as if the river was upset with the captain and chastising him for daring to have his boat disturb its night’s rest.

El Capitán, clad in a yellow raincoat, stood on the deck, squinting in the dark to create some level of visibility in the pitch blackness of the river.

Being drenched by the downpour, and challenged by the rough waves, yet still he managed to keep his bare feet gripped firmly to the iron bars that accessorised his deck. He also managed to keep his composure amid the mayhem that this rough journey was creating on the boat, the interior of which had now become pitch black.

Because of that horrific experience, my maiden trip across The Mighty Essequibo might well be my last, but it served to heighten my curiosity as to how a captain endures that kind of ordeal on a daily basis.

GOD’S GRACE In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Captain Vadym Joseph revealed that it is only by God’s Grace that

he is able to endure the extreme roughness of The Mighty Essequibo.

Even with his decades-long experience as a captain, he said, it has never occurred to him to be complacent, as experience can never equate to the power of the rough waters when the tide is low. “It is just me and God out there,” Joseph said. “And it is He that brings me through a safe journey every time.”

Starting as a bowman, then a sailor, Captain Vadym said that there is no particular timeframe in which one can equip themselves with the skills and courage of becoming a captain, and to have the full responsibility of taking a boat 70 miles up the Essequibo River.

“It can be a month or five years; one has to know within themselves when they are truly ready to graduate from being a bowman to a captain,” he posited.

BEGINNER’S LUCK Upon gaining the necessary experience, he then applied for his captain’s licence before buying the vessel he now operates or sometimes hires out to others.

He said he carefully had to learn the various channels of the river, and to carefully manoeuvre the boat to suit the different tides, and the condition of the water.

Apart from this, the passenger’s display of comfort would either serve as a boost or a deterrent. “Sometimes the passengers would come and ask who the captain is,” he said. “And if they don’t feel comfortable with you, they would go into another boat.

And this can dampen your spirit, and make you question if you are really ready to be

operate this boat.”

After having several frightening experiences during his career, Captain Joseph said what gave him the courage to continue operating despite the many risks being taken, are the compliments he receives from passengers after a particularly horrific journey through the rough waters.

This, he said, makes him realise just how dependent persons are on him to take them to their destination safely, even during inclement weather conditions.

ONE RAINY NIGHT Recalling one of those nights when he was highly complimented for battling with a rain storm and taking a boat-load of passengers safely to Bartica, Captain Joseph said it was as if God Himself was the real captain of the vessel that night.

“I was standing in my captain deck, braving a fierce rainstorm,” he said. “It was raining heavily, and the lightning and

thunder were flashing and rolling.

“It was a real terrible storm, and the winds were creating a roller-coaster with the boat.

“There was very little visibility amid the storm, and it was me and God out there, steering this boat.

“I prayed earnestly until I reach Bartica, and the ‘thank-you’ I received from the passengers were a real source of encouragement to me.”

Even though it is a requirement to equip a vessel with lights, he said that such lighting would only be beneficial to the passengers, as it would create a visual of the river; but for the captain, it would be more of a hindrance, as the glare from the light would make visibility poor.

He revealed that it is better to operate the boat in darkness, as it is in the knowing of the bearings of the river is what carries you through and not lighting.

And even though the vessel is called a ‘speedboat’, Captain Joseph said that when the going gets tough, it is better to go slow as it would minimize the slamming and jerking of the boat to a certain extent, but it will never fully eradicate that effect. In addition to this safety procedure, it is also advisable that the boat runs as close to land or ‘near shore’ as possible, in case a tragedy should occur. It is also easier to manoeuvre the boat near shore, as the water is usually rougher in the middle.

Captain Joseph said that the daily operation of a speedboat can be quite challenging, but he tends to put the reward in front, and will continue to serve his passengers in this way.

‘Original Juice Man’ now eyes Caribbean market

By Mohamed Khan ESSEQUIBO businessman, Neteram Ramnanan, better known as “Original Juice Man”, has no regrets about heeding the government’s call several years ago to grow more food.

For starters, he has seen significant economic and other gains since leaving Windsor Castle, where he was born and raised, to venture into the agro-processing business some 34 years ago.

Today, he not only supplies the local market with a wide array of fruit juices, but he now has his sights set on cornering the Caribbean market as well, where he says the demand for local products is overwhelming.

And, wanting to encourage others to take the same leap of faith as he did, Ramnanan is appealling to those frustrated rice farmers out there to strongly think about diversifying into fish farming or some such other venture, since the benefits are immense and guaranteed.

This year, Ramnanan is not only poised to invest close to $65M on expanding his manufacturing operations, but he’s already struck a new deal with a Trinidadian firm to supply

it with over 500 litres of canejuice weekly.

“So, rice and cane farmers,” he said, “you have nothing to lose if you plant fruits; the market is there.”

One reason he is interested in seeing a shift in trends, Ramnanan says, especially among rice farmers, is because of the great demand for raw materials and by-products.

Essequibo businessman, Neteram As he observed, Ramnanan, also known as “We are still not mak“Original Juice Man ” ing economic use of our fruits; and tons of rice husk and straw still go waste... We must, therefore, intensify our efforts to increase the links between industry and our resources.”

Ramnanan is of the firm belief that the Coalition government is in a stronger position to convince rice farmers to diversify.

He is of the opinion that this regime, once it continues to show an interest in agro- processing, and is willing to help

those entrepreneurs who are willing to take the risk and diversify, everyone will eventually get in on a piece of the

action. “Everyone should get a piece of the pie,” he said.

The established Pomeroon businessman started his business 1982 by manually producing cane-juice and pushing a hand cart on the road for miles.

Juice bottled for distribution

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Essequibo youths crave more attention

By Rawle Toney

YOUTHS at Charity on the Essequibo Coast are calling on the relevant authorities responsible for the day-to-day activities within the area to pay more attention to their wellbeing.

“We want people to pay more attention to what the youths want in Charity,” said Charity resident, Godfrey Stull.

During a recent visit to the Charity Community Centre, where

a number of youths were gathered for an afternoon game of football, the Guyana Chronicle seized the opportunity to find out from them what were some of the problems they were having in the Cinderella County.

According to Stull, “The bigger ones don’t really come around and talk to us; everything that is done on the (Community Centre) Ground is done by private people.

“If the Ground has to weed, people like me would get it done; pay people to do it.”

A few players who were Godfrey Stull (right) engaging Region 2’s Regional Executive present also chimed in, with Officer at the Charity Community Centre Ground one saying: “We’re glad to

New Lima pump station – a significant boost to D&I THE newly-commissioned pump station at Lima is expected to not only significantly improve drainage and irrigation in parts of the Essequibo Coast, but to also address the incidence of flooding.

“It’s a good day for Essequibo,” declared Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo on Monday January 4 at the commissioning of the $191M pump.

Besides the PM, among those at the commissioning were Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder; National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA)’s Fredrick Flatts; Region Two Chairman, Devanand Ramdatt; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, George Jervis; and other senior NDIA and Ministry of Agriculture officials.

During his address at the

ceremony, the PM reminded Essequibians of the importance of agriculture to both the economy and the country’s development, but he also sought to establish that Essequibo was not just about rice, but also about cash-crop farming and other activities not necessarily related to agriculture.

Minister Holder explained that the reason the pump station was placed at Lima, was because the village has the largest acreage of land.

“Sometimes, close to 200 youths of all ages would be on the Ground, so, we would be grateful if someone could donate some equipment to the club,” he said.

The Essequibo resident said that though the Essequibo Football Association (EFA) is still getting its feet wet, it would be a good thing if the Ministry of Education, through the Department of Sports and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), can find a way to support all the clubs in Charity.

With regards to the RDC, it was said that Council should look into the refurbishing of the stands at the Charity Community Centre, and Young footballers at the Charity Centre Ground also construct a fence that would aid in the collection speak, because people don’t come to Charity of revenue from rental. and ask us what’s going on, or what we need; But despite their many challenges, the nothing at all. But when they want us to vote youths collectively believe that things will for them, they come.” change. As Stull reasoned, “I think they just Stull, who’s a member of the Charity Ex- need people that generally care about the treme Football Club, said that while Essequi- youths in the area, and are not just there bebo is known for producing some of Guyana’s cause of who they know in the government. top cricketers, in Charity, a vast majority of “The RDC needs to play a better role youths have a keen interest in football. in the community, and help us a bit more”

Making it big in... he wanted to be something great, and he was determined to reach for the sky.

This determination, he said, heightened after his dad began to supply President Burnham with coconuts that he cultivated up the Pomeroon River. “My dad used to supply Hope Estate with dry coconuts, and also to persons on the East Coast who made coconut oil. And that was my first feel of business,” ‘Big Bird’ said.

After the passing of his father in 1989, he migrated to Georgetown at the age of 15, and began working on sea as a fisherman.

He would later return to Essequibo and establish a liquor store, which is when he began to spread his wings.

PROUD OWNER Currently, ‘Big Bird’ is the proud owner of a fish depot, gas station, super-

market, restaurant and food court cum bar, all located at the Pomeroon Stelling in the village of Charity.

He is also on the verge of establishing a food court at the soon-to-be-constructed Unity Park at Unity Village.

Well known in Charity and neighbouring villages for his fish business, ‘Big Bird’ says it’s the one aspect of business he enjoys the most, as not only has he been at it since 1997, but he will continue to as there is a great demand for fish.

He said that even though he does not do the fishing directly, he plays a pivotal role in the job of the fishermen. “I buy and sell the fish to Georgetown, but I also sell it up here, because it has demand,” ‘Big Bird’ said.

Besides buying from the fishermen, this businessman also loans them boats, ropes, ice and nets etc, as he tries to

From page 13

assist them in whatever way he can.

‘Big Bird’ said one of the reasons he’s so involved in the food business is because Essequibo is fast becoming a tourist destination, especially with the construction of recreation parks.

He said that tourist will now more than ever be encouraged to visit the Cinderella County, and he wants to play a pivotal role in this change.

This striving businessman said he plans to live in Essequibo for the remainder of his life, as he loves his hometown and the people, and since it brings him great happiness to be there, he will continue to serve them in this capacity.

“I truly love Essequibo; I am a true Essequibian...

I born here, and will die right here,” he said. (By Vanessa Braithwaite)

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

PAHO celebrates Guyana’s health at 50

By Svetlana Marshall

IN observance of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary, the Pan- American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) will be reflecting on achievements in the health sector over the past 50 years.

Health Systems and Service Advisor, Dr Paul Edwards, said PAHO/WHO Guyana Office is capitalising on this opportunity to reflect, compile and present on the achievements and challenges

in the local health sector.

Dr Edwards made this disclosure on Monday during a ‘Brown Bag Meeting with the Media’ at the Country Office, Brickdam.

PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr William Adu Krow; Chief Medical Officer Dr Shamdeo Persaud, and Health Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Trevor Thomas, were among the officials presenting during the meeting.

A photo gallery book, a progress health report, an award ceremony and health

fair are among the activities planned by the health organisation.

Dr Edwards explained that there will be a photo gallery book and progress health report at the Marriott International Hotel on May 12 at 9:00h. There would also be an award ceremony starting at 6:30pm at the same location. This ceremony will acknowledge persons who have made outstanding contributions to the health sector.

“A consultant has been hired for the development of this report; the outline of the

PAHO Country Representative, Dr William Adu Krow

report has been established and the writing of the report is in the initial stages. This report will compile useful information that comprehensively chronicles health achievements and development, including health status, over the years 1966-2016,” he explained. For this report, data would be collected from the Public Health Ministry, the National Library and national newspaper. However, information will also be

sourced from research and interviews.

“It is envisioned that it will benefit a wide array of persons, including the current health sector, students, and the public. It will also present a foundation that would inform development planning,” Dr Edwards said, as he alluded to the progress of the health report.

The date for the health fair, which is being held in collaboration with the Public Health Ministry, has not been finalised. However, the health symposium will be conducted at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre on May 13.

Notably, PAHO/WHO Director Dr Carissa Etienne and past country representatives who worked during the period of Independence have been invited.

The Chief Medical Officer, in delivering brief remarks, said Guyana’s health system has passed through many stages since Independence.

“Unfortunately for us at the Ministry, we had two major fires and those fires took away a lot of the historic

evidence on some of the work that was done at the Ministry in the past.”

He noted that prior to Independence, Guyana had placed major emphasis on sanitation and hygiene, and unfortunately this remains a problem.

“We are still plagued with a lot of sanitation issues.

So I think although that has been an early engagement for health, we still have a lot of work to do in this area.”

Subsequent to Independence, the CMO said, a lot of focus was placed on food and nutrition, mainly to address the issue of malnutrition.

“We used to have severe malnutrition problems, particularly in the hinterland and in remote areas. Communicable diseases were of major concern,” he explained.

Dr Persaud said today HIV/AIDS, mental health including suicide, accidents, violence and injuries – are of major concern to local health authorities. But these issues, he assured, will be addressed head-on during the execution of the revised Health Vision 2020 Strategy.

Man tells court he uses ganja to cure asthma – remanded to prison A 59-YEAR-OLD Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara man was Monday charged with marijuana possession and remanded to court.

Ricky Noel Nelson of 45 Norton Street, Bagotstown faced the charge of trafficking in narcotics when he appeared before City Magistrate Judy Latchman.

It was alleged that Nelson had 18 grams of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking on January 22 at the Itabali River trail.

Nelson pleaded guilty to the charge and told to the court that he would usually use the substance to cure his asthma. His explanation did not find merit with the

Magistrate.

Magistrate Latchman, based on his explanation, recorded a not guilty plea on Nelson’s behalf, since the drug was for his personal use and not for trafficking.

The defendant was refused bail and ordered to return to court on February 4 before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

City Hall to go after tax defaulters Having provided some three months' amnesty to defaulting tax payers, the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is taking a firm stand against property owners, who fail to meet their civil obligation.

The Council in a statement has warned that legal action will be taken against those persons owing the Municipality sums that are not paid within the stipulated time. Town Clerk Royston King said last Thursday that the Council is asking delinquent tax payers to come in and pay their roles.

He also noted that the Council is in dire need of cash to continue its revitalisation and rehabilitation works, while ensuring that a serious maintenance programme is afoot to upkeep the work completed.

According to financial records, large sums of money are still owed to the Municipality. In some cases, it was explained; persons had not paid their taxes in years, resulting in them owing hundreds of thousands of dollars to the City.

Late last year, the Municipality had provided to businesses and property owners amnesty on interest accrued for the non-payment of taxes.

This meant that delinquent tax payers had the interest removed from the actual tax amounts they owed. In a bid to facilitate these payments, the amnesty period, which was originally scheduled only for the month of September, was extended on two occasions, closing until the month of

November.

Rates and taxes are payable to the M&CC according to the ordinance of the Municipal and District Council Act Chapter 28:01, Section 213. This speaks to the due date and procedures surrounding the payment of these fees. The Town Clerk insists however that, “The M&CC is no longer being forced to compromise on the service it provides, thus all sums owed must be collected to continue the good work the Council has started.” He said, too, that the Council will not compromise on the enforcement of its rules and regulations, “not when we are trying to reinstate our authority and return discipline to the city.”

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

Region 4 Chair hopes LGE brings ‘fresh ideas’

By Shauna Jemmott

REGION 4 Chair, Genevieve Allen, is counting the days to the long-awaited Local Government Elections (LGE) due in March.

For her, it’s a dream come true, particularly for the 15 constituencies under the region’s supervision, as it brings fresh hope for greater development and a fair distribution of the good life for all as promised by the APNU/AFC government.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) office at Triumph, Allen said she is looking forward to working with the newly elected council following the March 18 elections, and hopes they come fully prepared to work.

“We are hoping that with the new persons on board, they will come with fresh ideas; that they will come with a lot of zeal.”

She said she fully supports the election, especially because of its structure and opportunities for fair representation and better management of all communities countrywide.

“I particularly like these elections,” Allen said, “because you are going to have constituency candidates and persons elected directly from a constituency that will have the responsibility to the people within that particular constituency.”

As she explained, elected candidates are expected to raise real issues faced by individuals within communities they represent.

“It means, therefore,” she said, “that candidate is expected to raise the issues affecting the persons, and the persons themselves will know that this is my councillor, and so I can bring

the issues to my councilor so that it can be represented at the level of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council.

“This kind of council is new to us, so, therefore, I am looking forward to see how it will work.”

GARBAGE As to the garbage situation in Region Four, that is fast

Region 4 Regional Chairperson, Genevieve Allen becoming out of hand. Allen said her office will be taking taking serious steps to address it.

Just last Monday, it was brought to the Guyana Chronicle’s attention that residents at Better Hope, on the East Coast De-

merara, are now using the seawall in their neighbourhood to dispose of their garbage.

And, responding to a report from residents at Triumph, also on the East Coast, that garbage is being dumped by persons unknown alongside the roadway in their community, the Guyana Chronicle paid a visit to the home of a councilor within the Beterverwagting area to raise the issue with him, only to find a full to overflowing bin just outside of his home.

Also at Herstelling, on the East Bank Demerara, residents have been known to regularly dump their garbage in the canal running through the community and on the roadways as well.

According to the Regional Chair, she has already spoken with one Mr Persaud, who reportedly works with the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) on such matters, and arrangements are being made for the city to assist the rest of the region with certain facilities, and in drafting a programme for works to be done with various villages.

Allen said she has also met with the various NDCs about putting measures in place for dealing with garbage disposal, but more particularly on organising sensitisation campaigns within communities, with the aim of enlightening residents about the importance of keeping a clean and green community which looks and smells pleasant.

Based on our observation, many Region Four communities, particularly those on the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara continue to experience pollution, and be exposed to mosquitoes and other water-borne diseases, because of the piles of garbage disposed along the road and even in the waterways.

PSC ups pressure for drop in fuel prices …says move will serve as a stimulus

The Private Sector Commission said it remains concerned that fuel prices in Guyana are not reflective of the global trends where prices are low, and fears that the competitiveness of local manufactures, farmers and service providers will be lost if urgent action is not taken.

In a statement the PSC said that if these trends continue, imports will be cheaper on the local markets and certain local production will diminish whilst exports will be more expensive. “With record lows in oil prices being translated into low prices at the pump in most countries, Guyanese consumers and manufacturers are still paying almost US$4.50 per gallon which is almost double the prices in some developed economies.”

“The Private Sector Commission calls upon government to review the prices of fuel, in particular at the state owned Guyana Oil Company, and consider a reduction in electricity rates so that the benefit of the lower oil prices

can provide relief to consumers who are suffering from reduced disposable income.” According to the PSC at this time when the economy is still reeling from the effects of the elections-induced slowdown in 2015, lowering the cost of fuel and electricity would provide a much needed stimulus to the recovery of the sluggish economy.

Back in August last year Finance Minister Winston Jordan had announced a reduction in fuel prices at the state-owned Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil). This was in sync with the prices for fuel on the international market at that time which had dropped drastically.

Jordan revealed then that diesel will be retailed at $168 down from $174 while gasoline will be sold at $199 down from $210.

Reuters news agency reported on Monday that a renewed slump in oil prices due to a persistent global supply glut hurt U.S. and European stock markets on Monday and weighed on the dollar following a rebound

in those sectors late last week. Anxiety over the impact of tumbling energy prices on global economic growth and central bank policies revived safe-haven demand for the yen, gold and U.S. and German government debt. Crude oil prices fell as much as 6.7 percent as Iraq announced record-high oil production that will feed into an already oversupplied market, wiping out much of the oil price gains from the biggest-ever daily rallies on Friday.

Reuters reported that the oil-led market turbulence since the start of 2016 has raised hopes of more stimulus from major global central banks. Last week, European Central Bank chief Mario Draghi signaled the bank was open to more monetary stimulus to combat weak growth and inflation in the euro zone.

Global markets slumped at the start of the year on fears that a slowdown in world No. 2 economy China would spread to the rest of the world, and oil prices sank to 13-year lows.

PPP/C to contest 70 LGE constituencies THE opposition PEOPLE’S Progressive Party/Civic (PPPC) Monday announced that it will nominate persons to all Local Government constituencies, except, Mocha, East Bank Demerara.

The party will present its lists of candidates at the various offices to contest the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), plus nine town councils.

The Party declared that it will be contesting the elections

with an equal number of PPP Candidates and an equal number of candidates from its Civic arm.

“The Party is pleased to announce that it has struck the 50-50 balance between PPP and Civic candidates, who will be contesting seventy (70) of the seventy-one (71) Neighbourhood Democratic Councils,” the PPP said in a statement.

“We wish to make it clear that the decision to contest these elections is premised on the confidence and optimism

the Party has in the electorate’s ability to make the right choices, as well as their determination to prove to country and the world at large that, notwithstanding the challenges and obstacles it continues to face with GECOM’s electoral machinery, the biased nature of its electoral officials and the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer, the PPP/C is the people’s choice to take Guyana forward,” Rohee said in a statement released by the party.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

Getaway students of Agri Shot Belizean student School thrashed by villagers A GETAWAY from the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) on Saturday night last turned ugly for six students after they were surrounded by an angry mob of residents wary of strangers, given recent incidents of break-ins.

The GSA is located at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara.

Three of the residents have been arrested as Police probe the case.

One of the injured students, Michael Layne, told

the Guyana Chronicle that he was part of a group of six students who decided to getaway from GSA to attend a party at about 21:00 hrs.

He said that while they were making their way out to get a bus to their destination via Agriculture Road, which borders Mon Repos and Triumph village, they were confronted by a large group of villagers, who accused them of being thieves.

Layne, a first year student, stated that they were given a ‘stiff’ beating even

after they told the mob that they were students of GSA. He added that they were questioned about their presence in the village, but their explanations did not save them from receiving a sound thrashing. He estimated the crowd to be about 100 men, women, and children.

The 17-year-old told this newspaper that two of his friends managed to get away but he was not so lucky and was beaten repeatedly in the head, which caused some

injuries.

He stated that they are tramautised by the incident and made a report to the Police station, where they were asked to tender medical certificates documenting their injuries.

It was reported that villagers have been hit by a series of break-ins in recent times and were thus wary of strangers.

GSA officials were said to be either out or unavailable for a statement on the issue. GSA’s policy is that on weekends (Sundays), students have to return to the school before 21:00 hrs, while on weekdays the curfew is 19:00 hrs.

The students have since reported the matter to school authorities; it is unclear if disciplinary actions will follow.

Police Commander of ‘C’ Division, Marlon Chapman, said that they are aware of the matter and a probe has been launched.

Apart from the three residents already arrested, Chapman said more could be held as the investigation progresses. (Michel Outridge)

recovering

DOCTORS at the Georgetown Public Hospital are monitoring the condition of the Belizean student who was recently shot twice as he was standing outside of his premises in Cummings Lodge.

On Monday, the Guyana Chronicle was informed that the young man, Garfield Dennison, 30, was recovering from the gunshot wounds he sustained from a lone assailant, who thus far remains unknown.

Police sources have confirmed to this publication that, as part of the normal procedures in serious crimes, persons who are believed to have a possible motive to harm a victim would be questioned.

It was communicated to this publication that the former girlfriend of the injured man is on the police radar for questioning, but she is nowhere to be found.

Asked if the ex-girlfriend is a suspect in the crime, a police source told this publication that they are seeking the woman just for routine questioning in relation to the matter.

At approximately 21:15hrs on Thursday last, Mr Dennison was shot in the chest and left hand.

The man had, moments before, dropped off his new girlfriend at home after an outing.

Mr Dennison who once ran for the presidency of the University of Guyana Student Movement, is a law student.

The police are not looking at robbery as the motive for the shooting, since the valuables of the young man were all intact.

The investigations into the matter are ongoing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday January 26, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Raonic shocks...

From page 24

44-minute thriller in the day session on Rod Laver Arena.

Long seen as a threat to the Novak Djokovic-led establishment, 25-year-old Raonic showed ice in his veins to fend off the 2014 champion 6-4, 6-3, 5-7, 4-6, 6-3 after the 30-year-old Swiss roared back from two sets down.

Unveiling an aggressive serve-volley game, Raonic fired 82 winners past the fourth seed to set up a second successive quarter-final at Melbourne Park.

Having lost to Djokovic a year ago, he will be favourite against French showman Gael Monfils who delighted fans with some spectacular dives as he beat Russian Andrey Kuznetsov 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(4) to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.

Raonic is on an eightmatch winning streak since the start of the year, a run which included upsetting Roger Federer to win the

Brisbane International, and he credits new coach Carlos Moya for giving him confidence to stray from the baseline.

"He's sort of organising my strengths, my weapons and how to use them better," the 13th seed told reporters.

Chinese qualifier Zhang, on a fairytale run after snapping her streak of 14 firstround exits at grand slams, overhauled a hobbling Madison Keys 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the day's late match.

The 133rd-ranked 27-year-old struggled to put the ailing American down but eventually celebrated becoming the first qualifier to reach the last eight in Australia since Mexico's Angelica Gavaldon in 1990.

ELATED ZHANG "I want to say bad luck to Madison for her injury.

But I'm very lucky today," an elated Zhang told the crowd after tossing her racquet in the air in jubilation.

"I think one week ago people were thinking 15 times first round and that I would be going back to China."

After the stress of Nigel Sears' collapse at Rod Laver Arena on Saturday, Murray returned to the same venue to ease past world number 17 Tomic 6-4, 6-4, 7-6(4) and will battle hyper-fit Spaniard David Ferrer for a spot in the semi-finals.

Murray's Sydney-born compatriot Konta, granted British citizenship in 2012, continued her superb run, overhauling last year's semi-finalist Ekaterina Makarova 4-6, 6-4, 8-6 in a match lasting three hours and four minutes.

"Those four minutes count!" Konta said.

Twice champion and 14th seed Victoria Azarenka continued her ominous advance, beating Czech Barbora Strycova 6-2, 6-4.

The former world number one has dropped only 11 games so far. "I played smart, I played aggressive and I took my opportunities.

Can someone tell me if the Broncos won?" she asked the crowd at Rod Laver Arena, having spent the morning worrying about whether her favourite NFL team had reached the Super Bowl.

Azarenka next plays German seventh seed Angelique Kerber whom she thrashed in the Brisbane International final.

Kerber reached her first Melbourne Park quarter-final with a 6-4, 6-0 win over fellow German Annika Beck.

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

all-round Rabada at the double as Pestano’s effort gives RHT South Africa scent victory Gizmos and Gadgets

Hashim Amla and Temba Bavuma put on a century stand on the fourth day at Centurion.

PRETORIA, South Africa (Reuters) - Firebrand fast bowler Kagiso Rabada bagged two wickets as South Africa reduced England to 52 for three at the close of day four of the final Test yesterday.

The tourists, who have already won the series, need a further 330 for what would be a record-breaking victory on the final day, but must do so on a wicket showing variable bounce and prodigious turn at Centurion Park.

England's hopes of an unlikely victory or survival will rest on Joe Root (19 not out) who is at the crease with James Taylor (19 not out) after Rabada gave the hosts the perfect start.

The 20-year-old forced another failure from opener Alex Hales who was trapped lbw for one by a ball that kept low and jagged into him.

Rabada claimed his ninth wicket of the match when he had Nick Compton (six) caught behind, the England batsman unsuccessfully reviewing what seemed an obvious edge.

With a tense final day likely, England will hope that wasted review does not come back to haunt them.

In-between, Morne Morkel grabbed the prized scalp of England captain Alastair Cook (five) with a brilliant one-handed caughtand-bowled to leave the latter still 36 runs short of 10 000 Test runs after a poor series.

South Africa should have celebrated the wicket of Root as well, but wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock failed to take the ball after spinner Dane Piedt had drawn the batsman from his crease and beaten the edge.

South Africa earlier declared their second innings on 248 for five.

Hashim Amla fell four

short of a second century in the match when he uncharacteristically flashed wildly at a wide delivery from Stuart Broad in the pursuit of quick runs.

Amla added 117 for the fifth wicket with Temba Bavuma (78 not out), who showed great application and maturity.

The highest successful chase in Test matches at Centurion Park is 251 by England in 2000, though the pitch was only used for two days in that match after rain spoiled the contest and the teams decided to forfeit an innings each to force a result.

Thun derstorms ar e forecast in Pretoria today, though those will likely come late in the afternoon.

SCOREBOARD SOUTH AFRICA1st innings 475 (Q. de Kock 129 n.o, S. Cook 115, H. Amla 109; B. Stokes 4-86) ENGLAND 1st innings 342 (A. Cook 76, J. Root 76, M. Ali 61; K. Rabada 7-112) SOUTH AFRICA 2nd innings (o/n 42-1) S. Cook c Bairstow b Anderson 25 D. Elgar c Bairstow b Anderson 1 H. Amla c Bairstow b Broad 96 A. de Villiers lbw b Anderson 0 J. Duminy c Bairstow b Stokes 29 T. Bavuma not out 78 Q. de Kock not out 9 Extras: (b-2, lb-5, w-3) 10 Total: (for 5 wickets, 83.2 overs) 248 Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-49, 3-49, 4-106, 5-223.

Bowling: J. Anderson 18-5-47-3, S.

Broad 15-4-33-1 (w-1), B. Stokes 16-436-1, C. Woakes 13.2-0-53-0 (w-2), M. Ali 17-3-60-0, J. Root 4-0-12-0.

ENGLAND 2nd innings (Target: 382 runs) A. Cook c & b M. Morkel 5 A. Hales lbw b Rabada 1 N. Compton c de Kock b Rabada 6 J. Root not out 19 J. Taylor not out 19 Extras: (lb-2) 2 Total: (for 3 wickets, 21 overs) 52 Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-8, 3-18.

Bowling: M. Morkel 6-4-12-1, K. Rabada 6-2-15-2, K. Abbott 1-0-6-0, D. Piedt 5-27-0, D. Elgar 2-1-8-0, Duminy 1-0-2-0.

Raonic shocks Wawrinka

By Ian Ransom

MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Milos Raonic struck a blow for the next generation of men's tennis by flooring former champion Stan Wawrinka yesterday before China's Zhang Shuai became the first qualifier to reach the Australian Open quarter-finals in more than 20 years.

Second seed Andy Murray, returning to court two days after his father-in-law was rushed to hospital, hit back for the old guard in the

evening session at Rod Laver Arena though, banishing Bernard Tomic, the last home hope in the singles.

Murray's win capped a banner day for Britain following Johanna Konta's advance, giving the nation men's and women's singles quarter-finalists at the same grand slam for the first time in nearly 40 years.

Melbourne Park was rocked by corruption allegations on its opening day, and a week later, integrity fears returned as a former Australian professional player

Canada's Milos Raonic

pleaded guilty to match-fixing at a Sydney court.

Former world number 187 Nick Lindahl appeared in court just hours after a top global bookmaker suspended betting after heavy gambling on a mixed doubles match at Melbourne Park.

The winning doubles pair dismissed suspicions over the match after being questioned by integrity officials.

There was no questioning the commitment of Raonic and Wawrinka as the pair slugged out a three-hour

Turn to page 23 ►

Busta title

CLINTON Pestano’s allround brilliance enabled Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets to comfortably crush Young Warriors by 170 runs in the final of the 12th annual Busta Champion of Champions cricket competition on Sunday at the Area ‘H’ ground.

The talented Pestano contributed a quick-fire 42-ball 72 to ensure a commanding total of 274-7 for the hosts, and then effectively bowled his medium pace to return figures of 3-30 as the visitors were bowled out for 104 in 24.1 overs.

Pestano slammed six fours and four sixes at the latter part of the innings, but not before former national wicketkeeper Delbert Hicks had stroked a 48-ball 69, inclusive of ten fours and two sixes.

Rajiv Ivan and Jason Sinclair contributed 43 and 33 respectively to the total.

Sudesh Dhani and Seon Hetmyer both claimed 2-52 bowling for Young Warriors.

In reply, Young Warriors batsmen found scoring difficult, with only Wahied Edwards 41 offering any meaningful resistance.

Dhani Kevin Sinclair chipped in with 20 and 17 respectively. Eon Hooper supported Pestano with fig-

South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:25 hrs Green Door 09:00 hrs Love Everlasting 09:35 hrs Naval Intelligence 10:10 hrs Wicked Lass 10:45 hrs Distinguished 11:20 hrs Rebel House English Racing Tips Wetherby 09:10 hrs For Goodness Sake 09:45 hrs Blake Dean 10:20 hrs Take The Mick 10:50 hrs Optical High 11:25 hrs Azert De Coeur 12:00 hrs The Dutchman Leicester 09:20 hrs Bladoun 10:30 hrs Doctor Harper

ures of 3-6, while Keon Sinclair and Shawn Pereira had two wickets apiece.

Pestano was voted best batsman and man-of-thefinal, while Hooper won the best bowler award for the winners.

Dhani and Edwards won the best bowler and batsman prizes for the losing finalists.

The winning team received $100 000 and trophy while Young Warriors were the recipients of $50 000.

At the presentation ceremony, Managing Director of Guyana Beverage Company, Robert Selman, praised the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sport Club for a well organised tournament.

Selman also praised the club for their continued development of youths. RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster thanked the Busta Company for their continued development of the game in Berbice.

The club also paid tribute to Selman, who is retiring after 14 years of dedicated service with the Guyana Beverage Company.

Marketing Manager of Guyana Beverage Company, the sole producer of Busta products, Shameiza Yadram was also a part of the large crowd that witnessed the game.

11:00 hrs Briery Queen 11:35 hrs Call The Detective 12:10 hrs Black Narcissus Southwell 09:30 hrs Sea Of Uncertainty 10:05 hrs Berkshire Beauty 10:40 hrs Gang Warfare 11:10 hrs Dungannon 11:45 hrs Peace Seeker 12:20 hrs Coiste Bodhar American Racing Tips Mahoning Valley Race Course Race 1 Something Naughty Race 2 Burn Permit Race 3 Faithful Justice Race 4 Giveitmybestshot Race 5 War Dress Race 6 Southern Valentine Race 7 Hawks Nest Race 8 Chosen Tune

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Teams confirmed … Tagenarine Chanderpaul slams 205 for Unity Cricket

Wins for ECC, DCC and GDF

TEAMS participating in the Unity Cricket one-day tournament, billed for this Saturday at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, have been confirmed.

A galaxy of International T20 stars will invade the stadium to play in the feature game under lights from 19:30hrs.

The Ramnaresh Sarwan-led Legacy All Stars face-off with the 007 Warriors who will be led by Christopher Barnwell to climax a day of fun and frolic for the entire family, in an attempt to forge National unity through sports.

Every fan in the stands who takes a one-handed catch will be US$500 richer and if Gayle cuts loose they could have plenty of opportunity to do so.

Softball cricket attracts its own crowd as was seen by a large turn-out for the Guyana Cup and with today (Tuesday) being the last day for the ‘early bird’ tickets which cost $2 000 a capacity crowd is anticipated.

Tckets will cost $3 000 after today.

Children under 12 will be admitted free providing they do not use a seat in the stands.

Five softball matches will be played from 10:00 hrs but semi-finals and final of the Open 10/10 could the most exciting games for the softball fans. The ‘open’ will commence at 16:30hrs.

Demerara, Berbice, Regal and Wolf Warriors will compete for $500,000 in the ‘Open’10/10.

Berbice Masters and a female Berbice team will

Tagnarine Chanderpaul

Ramnaresh Sarwan

Christopher Barnwell

compete against their Demerara counterparts. The winner of female match will get $150,000 while the Masters champions will receive $50,000. The Man-of-theMan in the feature event will collect US$500.

Guyana Skipper Leon Johnson was forced to pull out due a shoulder injury while Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Andre Russell and Khrismar Santokie are unavailable due to their participation in various t20 leagues around the world.

The teams reads: Legacy All Stars: Ramnaresh Sarwan (Capt), Chris Gayle, Rajendra Chandrika, Andre Fletcher, Narsingh Deonarine, Jonathon Foo, Nicholas Pooran, Evin Lewis, Devendra Bishoo, Sulieman Benn, Assad Fudadin, Robin Bacchus, Gajanand Singh, Royston Crandon 007 Warriors: Chris Barnwell (Capt), Dwayne Smith, Lindl Simmons, Anthony Bramble, Shemroy Barrington, Jason Holder, Darren Sammy, Steven Jacobs, Sherfane Rutherford,

Reyad Emrit, Veerasammy Permaul, Ronsford Beaton, Samuel Badree, Gudakesh Motie.

The Essequibo softball team: Patrick Rooplall, Khalid Baksh, Eknauth Persaud, Vijay Surujpaul, Shawz Grosvnor, Brion Mangar, Ramesh Narine, Greg Singh, Deoraj Dindyal, Govindra Sharma, Ehwaas Baksh, Ricardo Peters, Omesh Gobin, Demerara Masters: Richard Persaud Capt. Ramo Malone, Yunis Yusuf, Lloyd Rooplall, David Harper, Eric Thomas, Mahendra Hardyal V/Capt, Fazil Baksh, Davanand Kannon, Tony Singh, Jagdesh Persaud, Wayne Jones, Mohamed Rafeek Manager: Dharam Persaud.

Demerara Female softball team: Latoya Smith Capt., Kavita Yadram V/Capt, Zola Telford, Matanna Cambridge, Roxanne Demonick, Haseena Mohamed, Tamika Wilson, Jinelle Nero, Amanda Bobsemple, Kaysia Shultz, Sangetta Sawh, Alicia Allen, Odessa Oneil. Coach is Linden Wilson.

Sarfaraz hits 81, Khaleel takes 5-30 as India score morale-boosting win over Pakistan RAHUL Dravid-coached India recorded a five-wicket victory over Pakistan on the final day of the warm-up matches yesterday ahead of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup Bangladesh 2016, which starts tomorrow.

Pakistan were dismissed for 197 in 44.1 overs in a match reduced to 45 oversa-side due to a delayed start, and India surpassed the target in the 34th over to fashion a

convincing and morale-boosting win.

India left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed grabbed five wickets for 30 runs as Pakistan, who were cruising at 75 for one at one stage, lost their last nine wickets for 122 runs.

Mohammad Umar (36) and Hasan Mohsin (33) were the main scorers.

Big-hitting Sarfaraz Khan sealed India’s comfortable win by smashing 81 off 68

balls with 12 boundaries and a six.

Hosts Bangladesh trounced England by 97 runs to show they are a force to be reckoned with in the tournament.

Shafiul Hayet hit 68 and Mohammad Saifuddin scored an unbeaten 46 as Bangladesh notched up 246 for eight in their 50 overs after electing to take first strike.

NATIONAL opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul warmed up for the resumption of the WICB’s Professional Cricket League (PCL) four-day

tournament with a superb double-hundred to guide Everest Cricket Club (ECC) to an innings and 47 runs win against Police Sport Club (PSC) in the latest round of the GCA’s Trophy Stall, GISC and Star Party Rentals two-day first division Cricket tournament.

Chanderpaul slammed an unbeaten 205, with 14 fours to guide ECC to a huge first-innings total of 441-6 declared.

Amir Khan (86), Akshaya Persaud (64) and Chanderpaul Hemraj (57), all contributed to the total.

Needing 233 to make ECC bat again, PSC were bowled out for 186. Hemraj took 5-43 with his left-arm spin.

Scores: (PSC 208 & 186, ECC441-6 declared).

Meanwhile, DCC defeated GYO by an innings and 87 runs.

Scores: (DCC 362-8 declared, GYO 132 & 143) GDF beat TSC by 110 runs.

Scores: (GDF 190 & 207-8 declared, TSC 128 & 159).

Malteenoes registered first-innings points from GNIC. Scores: GNIC 118 & 264-8, Malteenoes 213).

New Zealand bowlers skittle Pakistan after Nicholls leads revival WELLINGTON, New Zealand (Reuters) - New Zealand pacemen Trent Boult and Grant Elliott shared seven wickets as the hosts bundled out Pakistan for 210 to win the first one-day international at the pacy Basin Reserve by 70 runs yesterday.

Elliott did the early damage while Boult, the world's top-ranked ODI bowler, ran through Pakistan's lower order as the touring side were shot out in 46 overs, chasing a target of 281 in the first of the threematch series.

Pakistan captain Azhar Ali and Ahmed Shehzad fell early to Elliott but Mohammad Hafeez (42) and Babar Azam (62) added 81 for the third wicket to put them back on course.

A mid-innings collapse, however, saw Pakistan lose their last seven wickets for

68 runs despite New Zealand being a bowler short in the absence of Mitchell McClenaghan, who suffered a blow to his eye while batting and was forced to retire hurt.

New Zealand, put in to bat, were reduced to 99-6 in the 23rd over before man-of-thematch Henry Nicolls rescued them with a knock of 82.

The left-hander, playing only his sixth ODI, added 79 for the seventh wicket with Mitchell Santner (48) before Matt Henry and McClenaghan launched a late assault to power New Zealand to 280-6 in their 50 overs.

Henry hit four sixes and a similar number of fours in his 30-ball 48 while McClenaghan, who was hit by an Anwar Ali bouncer that went through the gap in his helmet, smashed 31 in 18 balls as New Zealand

scored 71 off their last five overs.

The left-arm fast bowler suffered a small fracture above his left eye and will undergo a minor surgery on Friday, local media quoted a Black Caps spokesperson.

The injury is likely to keep the 29-year-old out of the remaining matches against Pakistan.

"Thanks for all the concerns. Everything is as good as it can be just a few broken bones. Great win for the boys!"

McClenaghan tweeted with a picture showing heavy bruising around his left eye.

Mohammad Amir was the most successful Pakistan bowler with 3-28 but had to leave the field injured after bowling the first delivery of his ninth over. Anwar took 3-66.

The second match of the series will be played in Napier on Thursday.

SCOREBOARD

NEW ZEALAND innings M. Guptill c Riaz b Irfan 11 T. Latham c S. Ahmed b Amir 11 K. Williamson b An. Ali 10 H. Nicholls b An. Ali 82 G. Elliott b An. Ali 0 C. Anderson c S. Ahmed b Amir 10 L. Ronchi c S. Ahmed b Amir 5 M. Santner c S. Ahmed b Irfan 48 M. Henry not out 48 M. McClenaghan retired hurt 31 T. Boult not out 4 Extras: (b-4, lb-3, w-13) 20 Total: (for 8 wickets, 50 overs) 280 Fall of wickets: 1-23, 2-25, 3-70, 4-70, 5-93, 6-99, 7-178, 8-203.

Bowling: M. Irfan 10-0-43-2 (w-1), M. Amir 8.1-0-28-3 (w-3), An. Ali 9.5-0-66-3 (w-3), W. Riaz 10-0-67-0 (w-3), I. Wasim 8-0-47-0 (w-2), Az. Ali 4-0-22-0 (w-1).

PAKISTAN innings Az. Ali c Nicolls b Elliott 19 A. Shehzad c Williamson b Elliott M. Hafeez c Nicholls b Williamson 42 B. Azam c Nicholls b Anderson 62 S. Maqsood c sub. b Elliott 10 S. Ahmed c Anderson b Boult 30 I. Wasim c Ronchi b Santner 1 An. Ali c Latham b Boult 16 W. Riaz not out 5 M. Amir b Boult 0 M. Irfan b Boult 0 Extras: (lb-2, w-10) 12 Total: (all out, 46 overs) 210 Fall of wickets: 1-33, 2-37, 3-118, 4-142, 5-168, 6-170, 7-205, 8-206 , 9-210.

Bowling: M. Henry 8-0-43-0 (w-4),T. Boult 9-1-40-4 (w-3), G. Elliott 10-1-43-3 (w-2), C. Anderson 9-1-35-1 (w-1), M. Santner 8-0-36-1, K. Williamson 2-011-1.

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Welshman eyeing Golden Jaguars return for Caribbean Cup

By Rawle Toney

EMERY Welshman could not have asked for a better start to 2016 football campaign. Last week, the 24-year-old signed with Real Salt Lake FC for this season in the USA’s Major League Soccer.

But despite all that he has achieved, nothing beats playing for the ‘Golden Jaguars’. Guyana will compete in the 2016/2017 Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Cup tournament, drawn in Group 5 alongside Puerto Rico and Anguilla.

The Scotiabank-sponsored championship will kick off in March (21-29) with all of the countries under the CFU, except Haiti, Jamaica, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago, who are all still participating in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.

Round two of the Championship is scheduled for May and Round three in October. The 5th Place playoff will take place in November and the finals in May 2017. The top four teams will qualify to the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Since their 2018 World Cup qualifier against the ‘Vincy Heat’ (St Vincent and the Grenadines), the Golden Jaguars were dormant and now, head coach Jamaal Shabazz will reassemble his troops to better

their 2007 showing at the tournament, where Guyana narrowly missed out on a spot in the semi-final and ultimately the CONCACAF Gold Cup. “It’s been a while since we’ve been together, so I am looking forward to getting back to Guyana and playing with the guys again and representing Guyana,” Welshman said yesterday in an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport.

However, his selection, according the striker, will depend heavily on if Shabazz will have a well-funded Golden Jaguars team by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF); one that will allow him (Shabazz) to put together the best possible team, inclusive of all the overseas-based players.

“It would be great if I was selected for the Caribbean Cup,” Welshman said, while adding, “hopefully the boss (Shabazz) sees me in his plans”, Welshman pointed out that the drive and passion is always there whenever called upon to ‘roar’ for the Golden Jaguars” The former Toronto FC forward, shied away from speculating on the composition of the Caribbean Cup squad only stating “I’d like to see all the players involved in competitive matches, with their clubs before qualifiers, so training camp is not entirely

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Tuesday November 03, 2015) COMPLIMENTS OF: THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE 176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 5 (2) 10

Today’s Quiz: (1) How many players have claimed a hat-trick on their Test match debut?

(2) Who is the first player to do the hat-trick in ODI cricket?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Emery Welshman in action for Guyana

based on fitness and more on the football.”

Welshman made five appearances for the Golden Jaguars, all coming last year, scoring three goals; the first being against Barbados in an International Friendly and the others against St Vincent and the Grenadines at the Guyana National Stadium in the

World Cup qualifiers.

Real Salt Lake starts the year in the 2015/16 CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinal Round, opening the schedule in Monterrey, Mexico, against Tigres UANL on Wednesday, February 24, with the return leg at Rio Tinto Stadium on Wednesday, March 2.

Guyana exit CFU Futsal Tournament with 3-2 win over Antigua GUYANA bowed out of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Futsal Tournament with a 3-2 win over Antigua and Barbuda in Havana, Cuba yesterday.

The Guyanese team, competing at the tournament for the first time since 2008, had suffered back-toback defeats in their previous Group ‘A’ matches.

A 5-2 loss to Curacao on the tournament’s opening day, followed by a

heartbreaking 4-3 defeat to Trinidad and Tobago meant that the team, coached by GFF Technical Director Claude Bolton, were eliminated along with Antigua, Jamaica and St Maarten.

Meanwhile, by virtue of finishing on top their respective groups, Cuba and Curacao will be CFU’s representatives at the 2016 CONCACAF Futsal Championship, which will be held in Costa Rica in May.

South Africa bans Bodi for 20 years for match-fixing PRETORIA, South Africa (Reuters) - Former South Africa international Gulam Bodi has been banned from all cricket-related activities for 20 years after admitting he attempted to fix matches in the country's domestic Twenty20 competition this season.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced the punishment yesterday following an investigation conducted by the organisation's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit.

Five years have been suspended on condition that Bodi is not found guilty of a similar offence and that he participates in corruption-related player education programmes.

"Our attitude to corruption will always be one of zero tolerance," CSA chief executive officer Haroon Lorgat told a news conference.

"There is no doubt that

Mr Bodi's actions have threatened the integrity and image of the game that we love and he must be handed a strong punishment. We have had many discussions with Mr Bodi and he accepts the folly of his actions.

"We are fortunate in this instance that several players rejected his approaches."

Cricket has been hit by several separate incidents of match-fixing in recent years.

Lorgat did not reveal if any players were being investigated for their potential roles in the saga, but CSA did confirm "certain aspects of the investigation are on-going".

Bodi, who was born in India and moved to South Africa as a teenager, played two one-day internationals and one Twenty20 match for the national side in 2007. (Reporting by Nick Said, editing by Ed Osmond)

Unseeded Murray crowned RTC tennis champion THE Men’s final of the RTC Championships closed with the biggest twist of the tournament when the unseeded Ronald Murray dashed the hopes of the Number 2 seed, Leyland Leacock, of being the first RTC Champion.

According to a press release, the skills of Leacock were heightened at the beginning of the match while hitting the ball with clean surgical precision that awarded him a 3/1 lead.

This did not rattle Murray as he held his composure to quickly take back the break and return on serve. The two matched each other to the point of 5-5 until Murray took the window of opportunity on Leacock’s serve to break and clinch the opening set.

Excellent volleying by Leacock built up his confidence at the net. This did not deter Murray to produce some incredible passing shots. The scoreboard pressure mounted on Leacock in the second set at 5-4 to Murray. He found himself serving to stay in the match and a focused Murray glared across the net with the hunger to win.

Silence pervaded the atmosphere with the toss of the ball. Spectators held their breath, as they riveted their gaze on the dead-

ly forehand passing shot which blasted past Leacock at the net to make Murray champion. The gathering stood and cheered the two players.

The second semi-finals highlighted the hard work Carol Humphrey put in throughout the years to still have the ability to ruffle the feathers of young Afruica Gentle.

Humphrey appeared unsettled on the court and slid several times at the beginning of the match.

The young Gentle was not gentle with the ball and performed in better form than a year ago in her encounter with the veteran.

In the first set, Humphrey was a casualty at the hands of the young Gentle.

The second set started with the same momentum when Gentle took a 3-0 lead. At this point Humphrey held her first game and banished the score from her thoughts.

She played more freely and marshalled better points with longer rallies.

She swept the match in straight sets 6-1, 6-4 to set up a final against Cristy Campbell. This is the first meeting of the two.

Number two seed, Gentle the big hitter will have to work hard against one of the best ladies defenders Campbell.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 26, 2016

‘Fishy’ Williams takes Wilbert Benjamin 50-miler

By Michael DaSilva

TEAM Gillette Evolution’s Marlon `Fishy’ Williams won the Wilbert Benjamin 4th annual 50-mile cycle road race, which was staged on the Corentyne Coast, Berbice on Sunday and attracted most of the country’s leading cyclists.

Williams’ time for the event which was the first 50mile race for the 2016 season was one hour 54 minutes 25.49 seconds.

Second place went to veteran rider, 41-year-old Robin Persaud, while his (Williams) team mates Orville Hinds and Raul Leal placed third and fourth respectively.

Shaquel Agard was fifth and Team Alanis’ Paul DeNobrega sixth.

Of the eight prime prizes that were on offer, rising star Akeem Wilkinson won four,

Marlon `Fishy’ Williams (at top of podium) accepts his first prize monetary award from Director of Sport Chr4istopher Jones. At Williams’ left is veteran rider and second-place finisher Robin Persaud, while at his (Williams) right is third-place finisher and team mate Orville Hinds.

while Leal won three and DeNobrega one.

After being sent on their

way from outside the Benjamin’s Sport Store by former New Amsterdam Mayor and

Patron of the Flying Ace Cycle Club, Errol Alphonso, more than 40 starters jostled for position in the very hot sun and made their way to Number 51 Village on the Corentyne Coast. Wilkinson led all the way up thereby winning the first four prime prizes.

It was not until approximately 15 miles remained in the race that Leal, ChoWee-Nam, Junior Niles and a few others started to close in on Wilkinson and eventually, Persaud and Williams connected to him while the remainder of the peloton was split.

The second peloton connected to Cho-Wee-Nam, Niles and Leal and thereafter there were several attempted attacks but not enough to catch up with Persaud and Williams, who, on connecting to Wilkinson, continued

their momentum and opened a sizeable lead. They worked in tandem all the way to the finish but Williams was able to prevail over his much older opponents.

In other results, Raphael Leung won the junior category ahead of Berbicians Andrew Hicks and Romelo Crawford respectively.

The female category was won by Berbician Whitney Poyer. Second was fellow Berbician Shemicka Teixeira.

The Under-16 age group category was dominated by Berbicians Zaman Fehon, Kenovan Collins and Chemedswar Dyamac respectively.

In the veterans’ category, Persaud, by virtue of placing second overall, was named champion of the category.

The other top five positions were occupied by

Junior Niles, Paul ChoWee-Nam, Jaikarran Sukhai, Ralph Williams and Clement Doris respectively.

The presentation of prizes to the respective winners was done by former Mayor of New Amsterdam Errol Alphonso and Director of Sport Christopher Jones.

In brief remarks, both Jones and Alphonso congratulated all the participants and were high in praise for the organiser of the event, Randolph Roberts and the sponsor Wilbert Benjamin.

The residents of the Fyrish who came out in their numbers to witness the event were promised better facilities for sports in the community by the Director of Sport, who informed residents of a special fund that is set aside for community development.

ICC praises Shivnarine Chanderpaul as role model

Came and Conquered!

Ming demolishes Barbados Radical field

Calvin Ming, (right) leads Stuart Maloney (centre) and Sean Maloney (third)

By Stephan Sookram A STUNNING performance by Guyanese-born racer Calvin Ming resulted in an almost perfect start to the Suzuki Radical Series, during the second round on Sunday at the Bushy Park raceway in Barbados.

Ming, who suffered car issues in the lead-up to last weekend’s competition, thrilled race fans at the Bushy Park Raceway when he picked up two first-place and one fourth-place finishes.

During the practice sessions, Ming clocked an unofficial time of 58.48 secs with the current official lap record

set at 58.9 by Barbadian Sean Maloney.

He also returned on Saturday to take the second spot on the grid for Race one, which he led from start to finish, but was given a 10 seconds penalty for jumping the start, which relegated him to fourth place.

In the second race, which featured a reverse grid, Ming started in 3rd but on lap one rocketed to the front to take the race as he ran unchallenged.

Race three proved the most challenging for the young Guyanese as he started second behind the Barbadian Sean Maloney with the later holding a stiff defensive line.

Ming, employing all the tricks he learnt in his karting

Pestano’s all-round effort gives RHT Gizmos and Gadgets Busta title Story on page 24

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) – Cricket’s world governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC), has praised recently retired West Indies batsman Shiv Chanderpaul as “a role model for millions”.

The 41-year-old Guyanese called time on his international career last week, after playing 164 Tests and finishing as just one of 11 players to score in excess of 10 100 Test runs.

“Shivnarine Chanderpaul will be remembered as a reliable and extremely effective batsman. He was remarkable with the way he could adapt to his style, mixing solid defence and attack, to the demands of the situation,” ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said.

“For nearly two decades, Shivnarine not only excelled with the bat but with his sporting attitude and quiet determination became a role model for millions of youngsters.”

Chanderpaul scored 11 867 Test runs to be second on the all-time West Indies list behind legend Brian Lara and seventh on the international list.

He scored 30 Test centuries and finished with an average of 51.

Chanderpaul also served as West Indies captain, leading the regional side in 14 Tests.

While known for his attritional run gathering, Chanderpaul also excelled in the shorter formats, stroking 8 778 runs from 268 One-Day Internationals at an average of 41.

His career was effectively ended last May when West Indies selectors axed him ahead of Australia’s tour of the Caribbean, following failures against South Africa and England. career as well as his F4 stint, tried valiantly to pass the experienced Bajan but could not overhaul the defensive line being used by the hometown hero.

However, still in hot pursuit of the day’s second win, the 19-year old took advantage of a high speed corner to employ a very well timed and precise manoeuvre to pass Maloney at over 130 mph, showing his skill and dexterity.

Following that series, Ming jetted off to Miami yesterday before they depart this morning for the second round of 3 races in the Mexican F4 FIA Championship series this weekend.

The winning Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets team pose with Managing Director Robert Selman, Marketing Manager Shameiza Yadram and other staff members of the company.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2016