Chronicle 11 11 2015

GUYANA No. 104369 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 11, 2015

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

PRICE: $80

Specialty Hospital back on INCLUDING VAT

… Guyana, India in new financing deal

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‘SHUBH DIWALI’: Thousands of Guyanese celebrated Diwali last evening by participating in the Dharmic Sabha’s annual motorcade, as well as illuminating their homes by lighting diyas and using festive lights (Cullen Bess-Nelson photos)

White paper on 14 Father, threepaternity leave for year-old son - as boat capsizes … 6 months maternity leave die Cabinet also being mulled 8 in Essequibo River Page

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Three-year-old Rudolph Dyal and his father, 38-year-old Michael Dyal

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Deepavali message from His Excellency President David Granger

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WISH to extend happy Deepavali greetings to all Guyanese, but particularly to the members of our Hindu Community, on the holy occasion of this sacred festival.

Deepavali – the Festival of Lights – is recognised by all Guyanese as one of the most joyous festivals in our multi-religious calendar.

It has, over past decades, enlightened and enlivened us all, regardless of our place of origin, religious belief, occupation or ethnicity.

Deepavali is a timeless, inspirational and powerful force, which integrates communities, engenders goodwill and encourages

President David Granger its religious context, brings the blessings of the Goddess Maha Lakshmi – who is worshipped for spiritual enlightenment and wealth.

In its wider context in our

Let the light of the diya illuminate our homes as a beacon of hope and peace for our communities and our country.

Let our thoughts and actions reflect the values of compassion and love. Let our lives be guided by kindness and tolerance towards each other. friendship.

It is the time each year when Hindus across the world celebrate the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Deepavali, in

country, all Guyanese can benefit from the messages of light, prosperity and wisdom.

Hindus across the country light diyas to signify the strength of that inner light,

which outshines all darkness.

Let the light of the diya illuminate our homes as a beacon of hope and peace for our communities and our country. Let our thoughts and actions reflect the values of compassion and love. Let our lives be guided by kindness and tolerance towards each other. Deepavali is an auspicious occasion and opportunity to rededicate ourselves to service to each other and, ultimately, to the development of our great nation. Let us all enjoy the goodness that comes with knowledge over ignorance, love over hatred and hope over despair.

Happy Deepavali 2015!!!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Specialty Hospital back on … Guyana, India in new financing deal

By Ariana Gordon GOVERNMENT will be going ahead with construction of a multi-billion-dollar specialty hospital here, but under a new agreement with India.

The new arrangement would see unused funds from the original deal being channelled towards the upgrade of three of the country’s regional hospitals, while a new pact will be negotiated for the completion of the medical facility.

On its assumption to office, the David Granger-led administration had indicated that it would prefer the funds for the hospital be used for primary healthcare delivery.

Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday that talks are continuing on the specialty hospital between the governments of Guyana and India. Government, the minister said, received what can only be described as “an offer of a lifetime”, whereby the Government of India will permit the Government of Guyana to use the remaining US$14M from the Specialty Hospital Project towards the upgrading of the West Demerara, Suddie and Bartica Regional Hospitals, while still being able to benefit from funding for a new Specialty Hospital.

Dr Norton explained that the approach taken by the Government of India is one that has the potential of benefiting all Guyanese. Put simply, he said what they’re actually saying is: “Use your money to do your primary healthcare system in your three hospitals, but we will continue to do the Specialty Hospital.”

CHANGE IN SCENARIO Noting the radical change in scenario, Dr Norton said, “It is one we can work with; it is one we think decisions can be made in the best interest of the public.

“It was offered to us; we identified three hospitals: West Demerara Hospital, Suddie Hospital and the Bartica Hospital, which are all regional hospitals that need to be upgraded, so that we could take off the load from the GPHC. And that was The Turkeyen location where the Specialty Hospital was to be constructed by Surendra Engineering Services

agreed to by using the rest of the money.”

Funding for the construction of a Specialty Hospital was part of an agreement between the Governments of Guyana and India, through the Exim Bank of India. Some US$18M was allocated to the project through a line of credit facility to build the hospital.

US$4M was expended by Surendra Engineering Company Limited on preliminary works associated with the construction of the hospital.

ORIGINAL DEAL Back in 2012, Surendra was awarded a multi-milliondollar contract to design and build the hospital at Turkeyen, on the lower East Coast, but its alleged involvement in criminal activity saw the former PPP administration terminating their agreement.

The company was flagged for its inability to maintain timelines; to account properly for funds provided; as well as providing a forged document that allegedly originated in Trinidad and Tobago.

The current administration, while in opposition during the 10th Parliament, criticised the former administration over the Specialty Hospital, citing that Minister of Public enough information was not Health, provided on how the Guyanese Dr George Norton people were to benefit by it. $1.25 billion was set aside for the hospital in the 2013 Budget, but was chopped by the then opposition. Some $34.4M was allocated to the hospital as part of a supplementary budget.

Asked whether government was forced to renegotiate with

the Government of India on the construction of Specialty Hospital, Dr Norton said: “I would hope we are not forced, because it would not be smooth sailing. I don’t think anything should be forced on us.”

OPTIMISM Dr. Norton is optimistic that ongoing discussions with the Government of India will bear fruit, as more information would be forthcoming on the construction and management of the hospital.

“I think that regardless of who is giving it to us,” he said, “that is something that should be making headlines with all details: Who is going to come and work; if Guyanese are going to be trained; if Guyanese people will have access to all facilities free of charge; things of that nature.”

Asked why government has changed its mind on the specialty hospital, Dr Norton said government was never opposed to having such a hospital here, but had rather felt at the time that it was not a priority.

“We have a situation where we can hardly have a wellfunctioning diabetic foot disease clinic…My point is primary healthcare is important; primary healthcare is that which we need to stop the high rate of maternal mortality and infantile mortality...hypertension, diabetes and the like; that is what we need the primary healthcare to do. So, when we were confronted and asked what you plan to do, we said, ‘Okay, we would love to spend this money on the primary healthcare system.’”

Though he could not state when the negotiations on the Specialty Hospital would be completed, he is optimistic that things will be in train soon.

“Here again,” he said, “it is an offer that is being done at a government-to-government level. These things do take time; it is not so much of a Ministry of Public Health, but it is a Ministry of Foreign Affairs...There is no dealing with foreign companies from the Ministry of Public Health.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Myanmar’s Suu Kyi vows to call shots after election landslide (REUTERS) MYANMAR democracy champion Aung San Suu Kyi made it clear on Tuesday that she was ready to defy the powerful military's attempts to clip her wings, as fresh results from Sunday's historic election showed her party heading for a resounding win.

As vote tallies trickled in, Suu Kyi's long-oppressed National League for Democracy (NLD) looked set to take control of most regional assemblies as well as forming the central government, a triumph that will reshape the political landscape.

Under the constitution drawn up by Myanmar's former junta, Suu Kyi is barred by the constitution from taking the presidency because her children are foreign nationals, a clause few doubt was inserted specifically to rule her out.

But in two interviews on

Tuesday, the Nobel peace laureate said that, whoever was appointed president by the newly elected houses of parliament, she would call the shots.

She told the BBC that she would be "making all the decisions as the leader of the winning party" and Channel News Asia that the next president would have "no authority".

The ruling Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), which was created by the junta and is led by retired soldiers, has conceded defeat in a poll that was a milestone on Myanmar's rocky path from dictatorship to democracy.

A CLEAR WIN The NLD said its tally of results posted at polling stations showed it was on track to take more than twothirds of seats that were contested in parliament, enough to form Myanmar's first democratically elected

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Myanmar pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi casts her ballot during general elections in Yangon, November 8, 2015. (Reuters/Stringer) government since the early far for the 440-strong lower 1960s. house. The USDP had won The party would win five seats. more than 250 of the 330 In the first results for seats not occupied by the the upper house declared on military in the lower house of Tuesday, the NLD won 29 of parliament, NLD spokesman 33 seats while the USDP won Win Htein predicted on two. Results for the regional Tuesday. Under the junta- assemblies also showed the crafted constitution, a quarter NLD well ahead. of the seats are unelected and "The difference between reserved for the armed forces. the parties is huge. It's a clear Reuters was not able to win," said Sitida, a 37-yearindependently verify the old Buddhist monk in the party's own estimates of its central city of Mandalay performance. who marched in the country's The election commission 2007 "Saffron Revolution" said the NLD had won 78 protests that were crushed by of the 88 seats declared so the junta.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

T&T good market for human traffickers (TRINIDAD GUARDIAN) IN the last six years, 46 foreign men and women were victims of human trafficking on T&T shores.

The victims, nationals of Colombia, Guyana, The Dominican Republic and Venezuela, were trafficked specifically for sexual exploitation, domestic servitude and labour exploitation.

The women are brought into the country by a recruiter who sells them to a local trafficker for $1,500.

To date, no trafficker has been convicted or jailed.

Of the 46 victims, 28 females and one male were used for sexual exploitation, while six males and one female were exploited for labour. Only one female was exploited for domestic servitude. Nine other victims were reported to be sexually exploited, but their sex was not revealed.

Vi c t i m s o f s e x u a l exploitation are usually lured by promises of employment in another country. An organised network is used to transport the victims to the destination country, where they find themselves forced into sexual slavery and held in inhumane

conditions and constant fear.

Labour exploitation takes place when victims are recruited and trafficked using deception and coercion and find themselves held in conditions of slavery in a variety of jobs, while domestic servitude is the seemingly normal practice of live-in help used as cover for the exploitation and control of someone, usually from another country. It is a form of forced labour.

On Friday, the statistics were revealed to the T&T Guardian by the deputy director of the Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) Alana Wheeler in a bid to raise awareness

about human trafficking in the country.

Since CTU was established they have rescued 24 foreign victims, Wheeler said. Another 13 people are also before the court for human trafficking offences. No one has been fined or jailed and the matters continue in the court.

Statistics show that between June 2009 and August 2012, 22 per cent of (unconfirmed) trafficking victims were nationals of The Dominican Republic, whereas 31 per cent were from Colombia. The fewest came from Guyana with eight per cent, while Venezuela recorded

the highest figure with 39 per cent.

For the period January 2013 to September 2015, Venezuela had the highest (confirmed) trafficking victims in T&T, while Colombia and Guyana had the second highest. Trailing behind was The Dominican Republic.

The data revealed that in 2009 nine victims were exploited sexually, including a male.

In 2010, the ministry recorded nine females being sexually exploited, while three males were trafficked for labour.

No data was available for 2011 and 2012.

Flashback‌Foreign nationals arrested on prostitution charges are escorted to the San Fernando Magistrates Court in 2013. PHOTO: KRISTIAN DE SILVA

Club sorry about Divali drinks ad (TRINIDAD EXPRESS) AN advertisement utilising six lit deyas to promote drinks specials at the popular Rossco's club yesterday sparked condemnation from some members of the Hindu community, including former attorney general Anand Ramlogan.

The owner, Ross Milne, removed the advertisement which was posted on Facebook and issued an apology.

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Guyana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

PUT GUYANA FIRST - instead of distorting serious national necessities for partisan political purposes

EDITORIAL

The Red House controversy THE controversy over the fate of Red House is very instructive. The manner in which the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) went about acquiring the building and State funding for the institute are symptomatic of that party’s style of governance, which some commentators have described as being grounded in the need to monopolise and dominate the common political space.

The Attorney General’s reasonable proposal that the building should house the papers and other works of all presidents was meant as a compromise on this very sensitive issue. It was also a gesture of reconciliation, which has been a central part of this government’s praxis.

The PPP’s response to the AG’s proposal was shocking. In very crude terms, the party literally said it would be sacrilegious to have Dr. Jagan’s papers housed in the same building as those of Mr Burnham’s and Mr. Hoyte’s. What is most surprising is that the one leading this chorus is former President Donald Ramotar. Considered to be among the more moderate elements in the PPP’s leadership, the former president was un-ceremoniously dumped by his party after its ouster from power earlier this year. One would have thought that he would have been among the more reasonable on this matter.

We fully support the AG’s proposal. In our fractured society, this would be a powerful statement for national unity. The PPP’s argument that Dr. Jagan’s belief in democracy was different from that of Mr Burnham and Mr Hoyte is simplistic. A close study of our political history would show that all of our leaders have presided over undemocratic actions. But even if some were less guilty than others, that should not be a litmus test for national unity. Difference should not be equated with superiority or inferiority. We strongly reject such advocacy whether implicitly or explicitly expressed.

The PPP is engaging in a very counter-productive course of action that could further setback the quest for national reconciliation. To suggest that Mr Hoyte and Mr Burnham do not belong in the same category as Dr. Jagan is an insult to the supporters of those presidents and the country as a whole. If we are to realise our dream of one nation in which all its components are respected, we have to move beyond petty political differences. In the face of challenges from outside our borders and myriad internal challenges we can ill-afford these manifestations of hyper political tribalism.

Guyana deserves a political maturity that speaks to our oneness without diminishing our diversity and vice versa. Like Dr. Jagan, Mr Burnham and Mr Hoyte are national treasures who, if studied and as part of a common tapestry, could open the eyes of the younger generations to the possibilities of a national ethos. They were political adversaries, not political enemies as the PPP is advocating. The country, including PPP supporters should speak up on this matter.

Dear Editor, I COULDN’T help but pen this letter in response to one written by MP Harry Gill in yesterday’s edition of the Kaieteur News, and headlined “APNU-AFC Ministers are spending taxpayers’ money to tour the world”.

I have no difficulty with the MP advancing an argument to suggest that the government is up to some “games” in an effort to postpone parliamentary debate on an issue about which it is taking some “heat”, but in so doing, the MP must use credible information and evidence, and not attempt to mislead the population about the importance of the meetings and events which the President and ministers attend.

One of the criticisms I heard of the previous administration, from officials of some international agencies and officials of other governments, is that Guyana was not represented at several key meetings where the strength of the regional integration grouping, CARICOM, needed to be clearly

demonstrated in order to get the desired results that were in the best interest of the countries of the region.

Another criticism of the former administration was that there was a key minister who attended critical negotiations alone, without even one aide; did not make notes, and depended heavily on his colleague ministers to submit their reports before Guyana presented its report and confirmed its position on certain issues.

I have no reason to question the validity of the criticisms of my sources, and therefore must conclude that such absences and lack of support staff at meetings are highly unacceptable. This new government cannot, and must not, operate in similar fashion, especially at this time when Guyana needs to exploit every available opportunity to benefit from decisions taken at the international level, which will help to address the many challenges the country faces.

While one accepts that government spending must be prudent and cost-effective, Guyana cannot afford

to absent itself from any meeting and/or event to which it is invited, especially in light of the efforts to frustrate our economic development by a neighbour who lays claim to our territory and maritime space, and is aggressively pursuing that claim in every available forum.

What one hopes is that, when our ministers and other officials travel abroad, they make full use of the opportunity to promote and discuss all aspects of Guyana’s development needs.

The Health Minister, while dealing with the issues of his portfolio, must find a way to include information that Guyana is looking for new markets for its rice; the Tourism Minister must tout investment in the Essequibo region; the Agriculture Minister must highlight the facts in favour of Guyana’s position on the controversy with Venezuela; and the Attorney General must be on the lookout for contacts he might make with officials who are involved in organisations with expertise on dealing with suicides.

And they must not only attend the formal meetings,

they must go to the cocktail parties and engage in serious networking, always on the lookout for someone or two they might meet who could be of assistance to Guyana. And yes, they can have a drink or two… it is not an offense for a minister to have a drink on the job; it is an offence if s/he can’t “hold” his/her drinks on the job.

It is unfortunate that Mr. Harry Gill would seek to mislead the population into believing that the overseas travels by the President and ministers are merely junkets; and by citing inaccurate information such as the size of the President’s delegation to the UN General Assembly, and that it costs the government for Carl Greenidge to participate in the Florida Conference.

Much better is expected of an MP, and Mr. Gill should know that.

We must all put Guyana first, and not distort serious national necessities for partisan political purposes.

Regards, WESLEY KIRTON

ACIC/SADR fully support government curfew on bars & night clubs Dear Editor, THE Anna Catherina Islamic Complex (ACIC) and The Guyana United Sadr Islamic Anjuman (GUSIA) have expressed their full support for moves by the Government of Guyana to establish a 2.00am curfew on bars and night clubs.

President General of ACIC, Hakeem Khan, expressed that the Guyanese society needs to recognise the need for positive transformation in our society, and the organisations were critical of the recent statement from the Private Sector Commission (PSC),

which they feel was made without considering the rest of society.

The statement from the PSC refuses to consider that alcohol consumption is linked to many harmful consequences for the individual drinker, the drinker’s immediate environment, and society as a whole. Such social consequences as traffic accidents, family and domestic problems, and violence and noise nuisance (linked to bars and clubs) are being addressed by governments globally, not only in Guyana.

The organisations alluded to the social con-

sequences in our country; the abuse of alcohol, which affects individuals other than the drinker, eg. persons involved in traffic casualties, or family issues, or violence, especially in the family.

Drinking costs money, and negatively impacts financial resources, particularly those of a poor family, leaving other family members destitute. “A paper by Bonu et al. (2004) suggests that adverse child health effects of alcohol use are primarily through two distal determinants (indirect effects) - forgone household disposable income and caretakers’ time

for childcare”.

The organisations call on all religious and social groups to come out in support of the government’s decision, as these are the efforts needed to curb the lawlessness in our society. Organisations must also be cognizant of the role they are required to play for a better society, rather than taking a “tunnel vision” approach to issues which can play a positive role in influencing our young generation.

REYAZ HUSSEIN Public Relations Executive

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Confusing the origins of Hindu College - and issues of secular versus sectarian schools

Dear Editor, I WRITE this letter with hesitation, because there is history and revisionist history, as well as varying accounts -- spoken and written -- from individual perspectives.

Moreover, I do not want to unwittingly create any negativity for this institution/organisation with which I am still emotionally and professionally connected.

Swami Purnanada Ji died a while ago, Swami Vidyananda Ji died just the other day, and who knows when I will follow suit; so I thought I should attempt a clarification before personal and politically motivated slants take root.

Swami Vidyananda’s biography, ‘Journey of the Guru’,

by Richard B. Mahase, comes closest to the following facts, which are often obscured, as they were in several speeches made at Swami Vidyananda’s funeral service and preceding ‘wakes’ last week, and more recently in a letter by Harry Hergash in Stabroek News on 7th November.

1. “Hindu College” did not start in 1957; its precursor, the “East Coast High school”, did.

2. I was the Principal of the East Coast High School, which was superseded by the Hindu College in 1959 after I demitted the Principalship in deference to Swami Dibyananda‘s arrival from India to take over as Principal of Hindu College.

3. As the first Principal of the East Coast High School, and being acutely aware of the multi-faceted nature of my country, I pursued the secular approach to education (which Swami Purnanada and I had agreed to when he approached me to start the high school); it was agreed that opportunities would be made available for the multi-religious student-body to say their morning prayers according to their respective religions.

As it turned out, the East Coast High School started with 39 students and 3 teachers; namely, myself as the head, together with Ramesh Shastri and Bunny Smith. Ramesh conducted prayers for the Hindus and Bunny for the Christians. We were in a quandary as to what to do with the 5 Muslim students who were among the initial 39, and for whom I was determined to make proper arrangements. However, with poor finances, we could not afford another teacher, so I thought the next best thing was for me to learn to conduct Muslim prayers. In this regard, I am grateful to Moulvi Hyderally of Golden Grove, who magnanimously agreed to give me a crash course. To this day, I marvel at the thought of a young man of Brahmin lineage conducting Muslim prayers just to maintain the principle of religious equality and tolerance, much to the chagrin of my uncles, who on both sides of my father’s and mother’s families were Hindu Pandits.

Enrollment at the East Coast High School during my time skyrocketed after the first batch of students performed well at the College of Preceptors (CP) examination. Among the students were several of the Brahmcharees, who did not attend regular classes but were coached by myself and Ramesh as we both lived at the Ashram during the two years we served as teachers there. I often wonder about the high turnover of Brahmcharees at the Ashram. As a matter of fact, of the half-dozen or so of the original group, only Seecharran (later Swami Vidyananda Ji) stayed the course!

I firmly believe that a secular school can better serve a multi-religious student body than a sectarian school, which by its very nature is perceived (even if it professes otherwise) to favour a particular religion, and despite what its “letterhead, report cards and publicity material” might say, as per Harry Hergash’s letter referred to above.

Incidentally, Mr. Hergash’s letter omitted two of the original significant top students of East Coast High School/Hindu College; namely, the late Latchman Kissoon, a successful lawyer in Guyana and Barbados, and the late Keith Booker, Permanent Secretary, Government of Guyana.

Finally, I wish to underscore that I hold no grudge or animosity towards Hindu College or any of its past or present leaders, teachers, students, etc. I try my best to support the school in whatever way I can, despite noticeable attempts to sideline me from time to time.

Regards, NOWRANG PERSAUD

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That Red House controversy what some people say…

THERE has been some controversy about whether Red House should be used as a research center for all presidents of Guyana and not just to honor former president Dr. Cheddi Jagan, so the Guyana Chronicle took to social media (Facebook) and conducted a vox pop (voice of the people/public) on the issue.

Here are some of the responses: * Gerard Gilks, School Teacher: “I do agree that the Red House should be the research centre on all present and past presidents. I am of the opinion that this was the initial intention for the

GERARD GILKS Red House.

“Well, if I’m wrong, I now do strongly suggest and support this notion.

Considering all the contributions that our past and present presidents have and are making to the various facets of society, we do need to make an aggressive effort in preserving this archival monument so that present and future generations may have something tangible to look back at.’’ * Godfrey Broomes, University of Guyana Stu-

is currently should remain a research center for Dr. Cheddi Jagan. The building was dedicated to Jagan because of his struggle for independence, contributions to the labour movements and his dire fight against civil animosity.

“Transforming Red House to a research centre for all past presidents would be a slap in the face of Dr. Jagan and his heroics. Doing this would be the same as constructing another monument alongside the 1763 Monument which will detract from its significance.” * Dwain Bowen: “Oh well, in that case I believe that they should include other presidents’ reign, being it’s a research center and we really don’t have

DWAIN BOWEN anywhere else that we could go and learn about our past political status.” * Trevon (only name give): “It was first built only for him and frankly it was only designed for him, if it does become (a research centre) for other presidents, the name will have to be changed or they just will have to build different ones for different presidents.” * Odyln Parker, Journalist: Well for me I believe that it should be there as a research centre

ODYLN PARKER GODFREY BROOMES dent: “The Red House as it

for the past and current presidents. * Cindy Clarke, Stu-

dent Teacher: “As a teacher in training, many learners are unfamiliar with our

CINDY CLARKE past and current leaders.

As a result, they are unable to identify, articulate and participate in healthy classroom discussions about our leaders and even those who helped with the development of our country. Therefore, using the Red House as a research centre which is not only accessible, convenient and informative to our learners will be beneficial to them and the masses at large.” * Joseph Allen: “I don’t know of the whole deal that transpired years

JOSEPH ALLEN ago but from day to day interactions, people are of the view that Red house was a deliberate act by the PPP to shift the focus from the other presidents to Cheddi - that is to only show what he has accomplished and we all know which party he represented so it would seem like PPP has carried this country on their backs.

“When election time come, you know what they speak of most? Cheddi - by then people have already known what he did it’s just to reinforce it during election after they had already put it in the minds of Guyanese using the Red House.”

* Kizzie Sancho: “It’s not that I’m against it but I do feel though that Government should find another building. The Red House is used for the remembrance of Dr. Cheddi and all his contributions towards Guyana and its history.”

In August, Minister of State Joseph Harmon had disclosed to the National Assembly and by extension the rest of Guyana that the former PPP/C had privatised the Red House.

In 2012 a company was established, Cheddi Jagan Research Inc., and the building was leased by the PPP/C to that company. The lease agreement has a duration of 99 years at a cost of only $1,000

KIZZIE SANCHO monthly. This will add up to $12,000 per year and $1,188,000 over the 99year period. However, this will not be even a quarter of what was spent to build, renovate and maintain the building over the years.

The building with its distinctive red colour is situated on High Street, Kingston between Young and Barrack Streets. It is built of pitch-pine timber and covered with red wallaba shingles.

The Red House was acquired in 1925 in the colony of British Guiana and Sir Eustace Woolford, a Speaker of the Legislature, was one of the early owners of the house. Between 1925 and 1953, many Colonial Secretaries resided there.

Dr. Cheddi Jagan also lived there from 1961 to 1964 while he served as Premier of British Guiana. Subsequently from 1965 to the early 1990s the Red House had accommodated the Public Service Ministry. The house was left vacant until 1999 when the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre was established in the building, according to online sources.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Father, three-year- as boat capsizes old son die in Essequibo River

By Svetlana Marshall A THREE-year-old boy and his father are now dead after the boat they were in capsized on the Essequibo River on Sunday afternoon.

Dead are Rudolph Dyal and his father, 38-year-old Michael Dyal. The toddler’s body surfaced shortly after the accident, but his father’s was only retrieved yesterday afternoon.

Seven other persons, including a one-yearold baby boy, survived the tragic accident that occurred approximately five miles away from the Chiney Landing area on the Essequibo River.

The survivors include the boat’s captain, 27-year-old Titon Andries; his mother, 68-year-old Ethel Andries; his father, Andrew Benjamin; his one-year-old son; his wife; and 10-year-old foster daughter, Alicia Oswald.

Thirteen-year-old Naomi Marcello, who is the aunt of the dead toddler, was also involved in the accident.

Dyal and his family, who reside at Mabura Hill, in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice), were visiting the area, while Andries and his family reside at Chiney Landing.

Ti t o n A n d r i e s , w h o has been a boat captain for approximately eight years,

tragedy struck.

Rudolph’s mother, Lucilda Ignatius told the Guyana Chronicle that they were returning to Chiney Landing at around 15:00 hrs on Sunday when

ENGINE TROUBLE “We had already passed two falls, and was about to clear de third falls; but when we reach at de top ah de falls, de engine cut off and we end up going down back, causing the boat to sink,” he recalled.

Upon realising what was happening, Andries said he held on to his one-year-old son and swam to safety. He said his family survived the ordeal, but noted that it was not long after that they realised that little Rudolph had been washed ashore, while his father was missing.

“We were there stranded; the boat, engine and everything wash way, so we had no way of getting back to the landing,” Andries said. They were subsequently rescued by his brother, who took them to Chiney Landing before transporting them to the Mabura Hill Police Outpost, where a report was made.

Andries’ parents, however, remained at the accident site in the hope of finding Michael Dyal.

Still traumatised,

Three-year-old Rudolph Dyal and his father, 38-yearold Michael Dyal in happier times Marcello, who hails from 10-year-old Alicia Oswald, Lethem, in Region 9 (Upper who was also in the boat at Takutu-Upper Essequibo), the time of the accident. She recalled that after the boat was reportedly close to the started sinking, she held riverbank when she realised on to her nephew but his that Marcello needed help. father took him away before Meanwhile, Rudolph’s drowning. “I had him, I had mother, 34-year-old Lucilda him,” she said, adding that Ignatius, said she was back although she pleaded with at a camp site in the vicinity Michael to leave the child of Chiney Landing when the with her, he still took him accident occurred. “I didn’t away. go with them; I did cooking.

Michael seh he want go and SAVED BY LITTLE see de place but I tell he GIRL not to go but he insisted,” But Marcello said she she told Guyana Chronicle too needed saving. “After a yesterday. while, I started going down, “He said he carrying and a li’l girl, she was far Rudolph, I said no but then away, but she come back and I put on de child clothes and save me,” she recalled. The send he…I even send my lil ‘li’l girl’ at reference was sista Naomi after she begged me to go,” the distraught mother recalled. The trio along with Andries and his family had reportedly left Chiney Landing at about 10:00 hrs on Saturday to go ‘down the river.’ “I couldn’t believe what happen when dem come back Monday fuh tell me meh son and husband dead. They lost their boat and everything but I lost meh son and meh husband.”

They had left their Mabura Hill home on Saturday and journeyed to Chiney Landing to visit relatives in the area. Dyal Thirteen-year-old Naomi Marcello and her saviour, and Ignatius shared an eightyear relationship and they 10-year-old Alicia Oswald had Rudolph. However, Ignatius has six children while Dyal had five children, including little Rudolph.

To provide for his family, the 38-year-old father not only worked with Demerara Timbers Limited (DTL), Mabura Hill by pulling out rejected wood at the sawmill, but he sold snacks as well. He reportedly did not know how to swim.

Ranks of the Guyana Police Force operating in the interior location are currently conducting an investigation into the The boat captain, Titon Andries and his family accident and drowning. who survived the accident

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Banks DIH honours 40 long-serving employees FORTY employees of the Banks DIH Limited who each have 20 years’ service to the company were on Friday lauded for their contribution and feted.

The beverage giant hosted the Annual 20-Year Club Luncheon at its Sports Club at Thirst Park, and Human Resources Director Andrew Carto congratulated the employees on achieving the milestone.

He praised them for their valuable contribution to the company over the years, and said: “On behalf of the Chairman, Board of Directors, management and staff, I wish to congratulate you on achieving this milestone, and acknowledge your contribution to the company.”

The event was attended by Chairman Mr Clifford Reis, Executive Directors and more than 180 members of the 20-Year Club, so named in honour of employees who have served the company for 20 years and over. Mr Reis presented to the awardees gold pins with the company’s emblem, in appreciation of their achievement.

The 40 employees are: Nigel Etkins (special events), Waylan Ross (engine room), Gregory Garraway (winery), Malcolm Vieira (Trisco plant), Mark Joseph, Collin Clements (Berbice outdoor), Ronald Abrams, Keith Parris (buildings), Ervington Rowe, Amanda Culpepper (materials handling), Rodney Lewis (beverage warehouse), Lennox Williams, Ian Garraway (Trisco/bread sales), Shon Bianchini (electrical workshop), Pansy Chase, Amanda Gomes (New Amsterdam Qik Serv), Jomo Austin (Linden outdoor), Cheron Simon (bakery), Trevor Singh (dairy plant), Gavin Joseph, Lindon Boston (beverage sales), Quincy Bailey, Colin Burnett (soft drink plant), Pauline Ward, Jacqueline Johnson (Camp Street Qik Serv), Nalini Narine (Prize Medal Patisserie), Suraj Ramkarran, Jenarine Jugool (vehicle workshop), Elizabeth Ramsamugh (Idiho), Colleen Harding, Tyson Luckie, Glensford Peters (rum factory), Kapil Naraine Wayne Benjamin (security), Cherryl Darrell (head office), O’Neal Ceres, Patrice Griffith (brewery), Brian Clementson (light refrigeration), Polyanthus Williams (Crème Select Lounge), and Annetta Weeks (OMG).

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The new members of the 20-Year Club pose with Banks DIH Chairman Mr Clifford Reis and directors of the company

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Diwali message from Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha

DIWALI is a unique Hindu festival which is important in Guyanese cultural life. It occurs today, on November 11 on the 15 day of the Hindu month of Kartik. New moon (no visible moon) occurs on the 11th making it the darkest night or Amawasya. A traditional period, consisting of five consecutive days is observed by Hindus around the world.

The five-day period consists of lighting a single diya or yam deep on Triyodasi (13th day) praying for longevity, which is followed by Narak Chaturdasi (the 14th day) when the destruction of Narkasur by Bhagwan Krishna is remembered and the liberation of thousands of women from his captivity celebrated; in fact, our own Hindu womens’ freedom day. Diwali day on November 11th is followed by Goverdhan puja and Bhai Dhuj on the 12th and 13th of November.

Fundamentally, Diwali is Lakshmi puja. Maha Lakshmi is described in the vedas as the eternal source of fortune and abundance. She emerged from the churning of the ocean (Sagar Manthan) seated on a pristine lotus.

The epitome of beauty, material and spiritual prosperity, Maha Lakshmi is adored with reverence, love and humility. The intention of her devotee is not to simply seek material gains but equally spiritual exaltation and bliss.

Every evening, when the Hindu turns the lights on in his home, he chants ‘Lakshmi karo tu kalyanam’. Lakshmi ma perpetually bestows the vardan of self-sufficiency and plenty. Lakshmi puja is primary during the celebration and re-kindles hope, expectation and happiness.

Hinduism has as one of its cardinal principles, the presence of the inner light within us. It is mandatory to recognise its presence and to let it emerge as divine radiance which must be shared with all. Diwali is deeply spiritual and creates the environment which enables all to find that inner source of divinity. It urges us to recall the deeper message which is the triumph of all positivity vanquishing every tinge of darkness. As we light our

diyas (today), let us also light that light within.

In a world susceptible to famine, war and other disasters, the devout Hindu believes that collective prayers to Lakshmi Mata can help to rid the earth of every iota of insufficiency. In fact, the Shukla Yajur Veda, unequiv-

Dr Vindhya Persaud, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha ocally places her as the mother who provides for her children.

With the passage of time, Diwali has grown into one of the most unifying of our festivals which transform society, removing every iota of darkness, strengthening our spiritual powers and our resolve to triumph over all obstacles.

As Guyanese we ought to take keen interest in our country’s development. We must steadfastly engage in puja to Lakshmi Mata seeking her blessings for the perpetual development and growth of our economy and the unity of all Guyanese so that they can continue to work harmoniously for our country’s progress.

Celebrate we must, but our work in transforming society must not cease. Our drive to protect our women and children must feature prominently on our agendas. We must continue to rid our society of all traces of violence so that Guyana will be a country of harmony and peace.

Diwali in Guyana has transcended all barriers and indeed people of all walks of life share in the inspiration that comes with this festival. This is most visible during our motorcades and Iwould like to thank the thousands who participated in and attended those motorcades across the country for continuing a rich legacy.

Let the light of Diwali burn infinitely, eliminating darkness in all its forms to fuse us in bonds of love, respect and unity. As we all light our diyas let us light this light of hope, optimism and courage inspiring today’s generation and generations to follow with the beautiful messages of Diwali; the triumph of good over evil and the dispelling of darkness with the light of knowledge and wisdom.

I urge all Guyanese to celebrate the festival with respect and understanding for each other in an atmosphere devoid of rancor and discord, free from any degenerate behaviour and may this healthy and loving atmosphere live on forever.

Shubh Divali from the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

Hollywood ‘celebs’ observing Diwali this year

By Toyin Owoseje JULIA Roberts is a Hollywood actress, but did you know she is also Hindu?

Today, and yesterday in some countries,

JULIA ROBERTS millions of Hindus around the world will celebrate Diwali, also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’. Diwali commemorates the triumph of good over evil, and signifies the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom, following 14 years in exile. It is followed by the Hindu New Year, which falls on 12 November this year.

Comedian and activist, Russell Brand

During the vibrant occasion, many Indian households decorate their courtyards with the traditional Indian art form, rangoli, and the lighting of earthenware oil lamps (known as ‘diyas’) to invite Lakshmi (the Goddess of Wealth) into people’s homes.

You can also expect lots of fireworks and parties.

IBTimes UK looks at some notable Hindu celebrities who will be joining the festivities.

specifically named Matangi, the Matangi mudra,” she said.

RICKY WILLIAMS It has been reported that NFL player, Ricky Williams is a practising Hindu. Although he was raised Baptist, the 38-yearold sportsman uses Hindu-based pranic

RUSSELL BRAND Although it is not known exactly when he converted, comedian Russell Brand practises Hinduism, and is a vocal advocate of Transcendental Meditation. In 2010, he married pop superstar, Katy Perry in a Hindu ceremony under heavy security in the heart of India’s leading tiger park. A Hindu priest even conducted the ceremony, which was attended by family and close friends.

JULIA ROBERTS In 2010, Hollywood actress Julia Roberts revealed that she had converted to Hinduism while making romantic comedy-drama film, Eat Pray Love. “I’m definitely a practising Hindu. Golly, I’ve been so spoiled with my friends and family in this life. Next time, I want to be just something quiet and supporting,” she said.

M.I.A Controversial singer, M.I.A., whose real name is Mathangi Arulpragasam, is another famous Hindu. In 2013, she claimed that her infamous middle finger gesture during her 2012 Super Bowl performance with Madonna and Nicki Minaj was a tribute to the Hindu Goddess, Matangi, whose symbol is the middle finger. “There’s not a lot of them that are named after gods and goddesses, but the middle finger is

NFL star, Ricky Williams have adopted the faith during a spiritual quest in the mid 1960s. Recalling his journey he would later say: “Everything else can wait, but the search for God cannot.” Following his death in 2001, his ashes were scattered in the Ganges and Yamuna rivers in India.

M.I.A. healing to recover from injuries. He has also learned ayurveda, a traditional Hindu system of medicine from India.

“Religions are something that were developed based on culture,” Williams previously said. “The religions are many, but God is one. I believe based on what I’ve studied, all religions say the same thing but in different ways.”

GEORGE HARRISON Although he is no longer with us, Beatles guitarist, George Harrison is still worth a mention. The icon, who remains one of the most famous celebrity converts to Hinduism to date, is said to

The Late George Harrison

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Diwali 2015 scenes

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The home of Brian Tiwari (B.K. International)

The Ramrattans of New Haven, Bel Air, Georgetown

Mystified: A child examines a Rangoli designed by Priya Arjoone

Devotees of the Shri Krishna Campbellville Jawaar Sangh offered sweet meats for sale as they celebrate Diwali last evening (Cullen Bess-Nelson photos)

A joyous occasion for Chitram Arjoone and family on Diwali night

PM Nagamootoo is acting President

PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo was sworn in as Acting President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana yesterday morning at his office in Georgetown

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

GEA: Solar-powered street lighting can save $$$ G U Y A N A h a s approximately 9,254 street lights which consume approximately 5.967GWh of energy per year at a cost of $316.25 million (US$1.5 million) annually. That’s according to the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA).

Defective photocells and lamps have resulted in some areas being under-lit, while some lamps remain continuously lit (24 hours per day). Based on the current street lighting tariff of G$55.67 per kWh, for each lamp remaining lit during the day, the energy wasted per lamp costs about $60,958 per year.

To conserve energy, G E A’s e n g i n e e r s , w i t h support from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Wo r k S e r v i c e s G r o u p (WSG), conducted a series of photocell replacement activities on the street lamps remaining lit during the day with the objective of replacing some 2,000 defective photocells.

AN IMPORTANT SERVICE A s E n e rg y We e k i s being observed under the theme “Empowering our Sustainable Development” from November 8-14, 2015, the GEA underscored that street lighting is an important service that helps contribute to safety and security of the public, businesses, and residential spaces.

Street lights also aid in crime prevention and recreational activities, the GEA has noted. Over the years, this service has significantly contributed to the energy consumption from the utility at a considerable cost.

In order to enhance and conserve electricity used by street lights, the GEA has piloted StandA l o n e S o l a r- P o w e r e d Street Light.

Based on a study done by the energy agency, the main types of street lamps are the 250-watt high-pressure sodium vapour (HPSV) lamps, and 175-watt mercury vapour lamps.

In keeping with its mandate to develop and encourage the development and utilisation of sources of energy, and to carry out research into all sources of energy, GEA has explored the opportunities for

using solar energy as an alternative to conventional street lighting powered by electricity from the public utility.

which otherwise would have been paid to the electric utility over the lifetime of the lights.

ALTERNATIVES

ADVANTAGES

Through the use of standalone solar-powered street lighting and the use of light emitting diode (LED) lamps,

Apart from monetary savings there are many additional advantages associated with the use of this type of street lighting,” Sharma noted.

Given that it utilises the sun’s energy, he said the power generated is continuously available.

During the sunlight hours, energy generated by the PV panels is stored in batteries; at nights when sunlight is no longer available the energy stored in the batteries are then delivered to the lamp.

Additionally, because t h e y u s e s o l a r e n e rg y, which is renewable and sustainable, stand-alone solar-based street lighting is environmentally desirable.

Another major advantage is that the LED lamp provides a truer colour representation, more depth of field, and

CEO of the Guyana Energy Agency, Dr Mahender Sharma GEA's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mahender Sharma said it is possible to significantly reduce the cost that the current street lighting

systems incur.

These lights utilise photovoltaic (PV) technology which harnesses the sun’s energy by converting it into electricity. The abundance of sunlight in Guyana, and the region at large, therefore makes solar-powered street lighting a very attractive alternative to street lighting powered by electricity from the public utility.

The LED lamps also have an estimated lifetime that is five times longer than conventional HPSV lamps, and energy savings of 80% or more.

“Converting HPSV street lights to solar-powered LED lamps incurs a capital cost; however this can be recouped from the monthly payments

greater peripheral vision, which improves safety for drivers and pedestrians.

G E A’ s e n g i n e e r s designed and, with the assistance of Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), installed one stand-alone solar-powered street light at the corner of Thomas and Quamina Streets in front of the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs.

PILOT PROJECT The stand-alone solarpowered street light consists of a 140W solar panel, 40W LED lamp, 105Ah battery, charge controller, timer, enclosure and mounts. This, the first unit installed by the GEA, cost $278,300. It is

estimated that these costs can be further reduced to about $200,000 based on optimisation of the design and lessons learned. The estimated simple payback for the stand-alone solarpowered street light is about three years.

S o l a r- p o w e r e d L E D street lamps have a major advantage in that they are

not affected by utility failure and operate at low voltages, hence making them cost effective and a safe option for workers.

“GEA will continue to monitor, research and record the performance of solarpowered street lighting.

The information obtained from data gathered, and experience gained from the

installation process, will be used to guide decisions with regards to street lighting,” the GEA head noted.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure is responsible for any lighting of the national main roads while local government organs are responsible for any lighting of local roads and streets.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

White paper on paternity leave for cabinet … 6 months maternity leave also being mulled

By Tajeram Mohabir MEN might well be in for two sets of good news when their wives are set to deliver babies; and this is because Public Health Minister Dr George Norton is developing a white paper to be taken to Cabinet that would afford men some quality days off during the momentous occasion of childbirth.

He is hoping that the forward-looking policy gets the unalloyed blessing of Cabinet. This policy paper intends to increase the maternity leave time for women from three months to six months; and during this time, the husband or partner of the pregnant woman would also be entitled to leave.

Indications are that the father of the child might not get a full six-month vacation, but would be entitled to some pay while he is legitimately off the job. Paternity leave generally allows men to get more directly involved in child care, get a break from work, gives their wives a break from child-rearing,

and change the perception of dads.

Dr Norton told the Guyana Chronicle he hopes that when the policy paper is taken to Cabinet, he gets the unequivocal support of his colleagues, especially the lone female Ministers Cathy Hughes and Volda Lawrence.

Should Guyana greenlight the paternity leave, this country would be the latest addition to the long list of countries which have implemented similar measures. In Belgium, men Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton get 10 days’ leave when their wives are at the stage of childbirth. In France, they get 11 days; in Denmark, 14 days; in Spain, 15 days; in Finland, 54 days; in Sweden, 60 days; in Norway, 70 days; and in Iceland, 120 days.

According to Forbes Magazine, today, 70 countries around the world provide paid paternity leave for fathers.

DURATION DIFFERS The length of time offered and the average payment level differ drastically between countries, according to the World Economic Forum, based on an Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) report. That report noted that even though South Korea and Japan offer dads the most paid time off from work, very few men avail themselves of it, because of cultural perceptions that raising a child is

Wednesday November 11th, 2015 - 14:30 hrs Thursday November 12th, 2015 - 05:30 hrs

primarily the mother’s task.

Forbes Magazine has said that while fewer than two per cent of fathers in Japan and South Korea take paternity leave, 89 per cent of dads take time off in Sweden. The news report also pointed out that in countries where the paternity leave on offer is relatively short and well paid, more fathers tend to avail themselves of its use.

Dr Norton has said he fully supports men getting some leave with pay when their wives are about to deliver babies.

The minister says he has been advised by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and several other international organisations that Guyana should move in that direction.

PROGRESSIVE STEP “It is a progressive step forward,” the minister told this publication.

But the extension of maternity leave from three months to six months might negatively affect productivity, especially if the impending mothers are in the employ of the public and private sectors.

“No so,” said an adamant Dr Norton. He pointed out that “pregnant women need the time to breast feed the child, properly nurture the child, (and) to adequately recuperate and take care of themselves”.

For the Public Health Minister, the white paper he will take to Cabinet is part of a wider plan to build a nation of strong and healthy adults and children.

“It would not really be a loss of productivity. A woman returning to work, who has given birth and hasn’t fully recovered from the stress and strain, would not function well. This would affect productivity, plus it would aggravate her condition. With a woman who has fully recovered, the situation will be different, so it is not really a loss of productivity if the maternity leave is extended.

It is more (a case of) of providing the requisite support for our women so that they can function well, and this no doubt will certainly increase productivity in the work environment,” Dr Norton contends.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Caribbean employers and trade unions agree to establish formal national bipartite forums SENIOR officials from Caribbean trade unions and employer organisations have reached agreement on the establishment of bipartite forums in individual Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries.

In a joint statement following a meeting here earlier this week, President of the Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL), David Massiah and Wayne Chen, President of the Caribbean Employers’ Confederation (CEC) said the forums would deepen cooperation between trade unions and employers’ organisations to better coordinate research and advocacy on matters of mutual importance.

“These bipartite forums

will mark a new era in the cooperation between workers’ and employers’ organisations that will no doubt improve the region’s business climate,” said Chen.

Massiah said “both labour and employers demonstrated commitment and support of the work done over the three days.

“This augurs well for the future success of the programme which will send positive messages to our governments.” Director, ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean, Claudia Coenjaerts, said that the mechanisms for social dialogue in the Caribbean need to be strengthened, noting that during times of financial crisis, “social dialogue is

our key tool in the bag when addressing economic d o w n t u r n . Tr i p a r t i s m and social dialogue are essential building blocks of a peaceful and thriving economic environment.”

She said that the European Union-funded project is an opportunity for workers’ and employers’ organisations to play their role in the implementation, governance and monitoring of the effects of the EPA Social Aspects Chapter.

“This project is your opportunity to build a CEC and CCL strong enough to have a recognised status in COHSOD and COTED, strong enough to influence social and economic CARICOM policies.” One of the key conclusions of the

meeting was a recognition of the need for both employer and worker representatives to be more closely involved in the curriculum and strategy development of national vocational and technical training institutions.

The meeting also felt that youth unemployment is the single most pressing issue to be addressed in

the region, and ensuring t h a t c o h e re n c e e x i s t s between job market re q u i re m e n t s a n d t h e skills of job seekers is a top priority. Representatives also assessed the national monitoring mechanisms for the implementation of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the European Union and

the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) countries.

It was agreed that a more consolidated focus was needed in each of the countries to ensure that appropriate measures be put in place to enhance the benefits to be derived from the EPA,” according to the statement issued here.

(CMC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Country efforts lead the way toward malaria elimination - in the Americas

COUNTRIES in the Americas have made d r a m a t i c p ro g re s s i n reducing deaths and illness from malaria, and 14 of the region's 21 malaria-endemic countries have expressed official commitment to eliminating the disease.

On Malaria Day in the Americas (Nov. 6), the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and its partners are honouring three country programmes as ‘Malaria Champions of the Americas’ in recognition of their exemplary efforts to detect, treat, and dramatically reduce the spread of the disease.

Efforts by these and other affected countries have contributed to a regionwide decline of 67% in malaria cases (from nearly 1.2 million in 2000 to 375,000 in 2014) and 77% in deaths (from 390 in 2000 to 89 in 2014).

"The Region of the Americas has demonstrated capacity to reduce malaria significantly," said Marcos Espinal, director of PAHO/ WHO's Department of Communicable Diseases.

"Our member states and PAHO are committed to accelerate efforts to eliminate the disease."

The three 2015 Malaria Champions of the Americas being honored today are: First-place winner: Brazil's National Program for Prevention and Control of Malaria, winner of the first-place award. Since its establishment in 2003, this program has helped dramatically reduce the number of malaria deaths (down 61%), cases (down 69%), and hospitalisations (down 84%) nationwide

in Brazil while achieving even more dramatic declines in the lowest-income municipalities. The program has nearly 14,000 health workers collaborating with both urban and rural communities to carry out surveillance, detection, vector control, treatment, health education and installation of bed nets. The program is part of the Ministry of Health's Department of Health Surveillance

working to achieve PAHO/ WHO certification of Paraguay as malaria-free.

The ‘Malaria Champions of the Americas’ competition was established in 2009 to recognize innovative efforts that have significantly contributed to overcoming the challenges of malaria in communities, countries, and the hemisphere and that have served as an inspiration in the global battle against malaria. The competition and

and collaborates with the ministry's Community Health Outreach Programs and Family Health Strategy.

Honduras's Health Surveillance Unit, whose malaria control efforts have reduced malaria cases over the past three years by an average 56% in the six departments that account for over 90% of the country's cases. The program works closely with communities to install bed nets, carry out surveillance, expand diagnostic coverage, and ensure treatment. By 2014, Honduras was reporting 3,380 malaria cases nationwide, representing a 90% decline from the 35,125 cases reported in 2000.

Paraguay's National Program for Malaria Control (PNCP) has helped maintain Paraguay free of indigenous malaria transmission since 2012. The program uses a "T3" strategy of "Testing, Treating and Tracking" for malaria that has included expanded surveillance of mosquito vectors and of imported human cases of malaria. PNCP, part of National Malaria Eradication Service (SENEPA), is now

the observance of Malaria Day in the Americas are cosponsored by PAHO/ WHO, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Center for Communication Programs, and the Milken Institute School of Public Health of The George Washington University. This year, the United Nations Foundation is also supporting the initiative.

MALARIA DAY IN THE AMERICAS FORUM In addition to celebrating the 2015 Malaria Champions of the Americas, today's Malaria Day in the Americas event at PAHO/WHO also features a special Forum of Malaria Networks and Advocates. It focuses on new initiatives for malaria control and elimination, including the Roll Back Malaria Partnership's "Action and Investment to Defeat Malaria," the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation's Strategy for Malaria in the Americas, and the "Malaria Zero" initiative of the Consortium for Malaria Elimination in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

(PAHO)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Miss World Guyana on lookout for 2016 title-holder - regional ‘try-outs’ scheduled for next November

By Alex Wayne THE Miss World Guyana Board of Directors and its franchise holder are already on the lookout for next year’s representative to what will be the 66th edition of the Miss World Pageant.

They’re looking for someone that is smart, beautiful, confident, and willing to make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to the development of Guyana.

As such, young women who feel they fit the bill are invited to attend what is called the ‘Miss WorldG u y a n a Tr y - o u t ’ t h i s Saturday at 10:00 hrs at the PS Media Building at 206 Charlotte Street (between Alexander and Camp Streets)

in Lacytown.

But before doing so, all those desirous of vying for the coveted title must first apply Online at www. missworldguyana.gy, where they’ll also find details on eligibility and the Miss World-Guyana Organisation.

Applicants attending the ‘tryout’ are advised to walk with gym wear, appropriate shoes (preferably high-heels), video clips of whatever charity work they may be involved in, and one of their intended talent piece.

Should an applicant not have video clips of her proposed talent piece, she will be asked to do one onthe-spot at the ‘try-out’.

Members of the public desirous of speaking directly with a representative are

welcome to call 223-5018 or 678 4451.

The first Miss WorldGuyana title-holder was crowned in May 26, 1966.

The pageant has since been held on May 26 every year to commemorate Guyana’s gaining its independence from Britain.

The Miss World-Guyana organisation prides itself on ensuring that contestants embrace the true meaning of independence; that they live purposeful lives; and that they seek peace, unity and empowerment.

The Miss World pageant is one of the most recognised and publicised beauty contests in the world, and also boasts the largest number of participating countries.

As most Guyanese will have known by now,

Guyana’s representative to the pageant this year is the delightful Lisa Punch, whose Beauty with a Purpose “STAY ALIVE” campaign is progressing as planned, and is raring to go come December 19.

The winner of this year’s title can expect to cart off an approximate US$10M in cash and prizes among other perks.

17 Reigning Miss Guyana World, Lisa Punch

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Thousands gather to view kaleidoscopic Diwali motorcade Scenes from last evening’s Diwali Motorcade (Delano Williams photos)

By Rabindra Rooplall THE controversy in the date for celebrating Diwali did not prevent the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha from staging a most spectacular Annual Deepavali Motorcade last evening, nor did it dissuade multiple thousands from lining the East Coast Demerara (ECD) seawall to observe the kaleidoscopic spectacle which ushered in the Festival of Lights.

Last evening saw gorgeously bedecked motorcades sporting the representation of Mother Lakshmi and other depictions from the Hindu scriptures ensconced amidst intricate designs and much more Diwali dazzle, and accompanied by devotional music. Most floats sat atop pick-up and Canter trucks and makeshift carriers towed by vehicles.

The scene was a breathtaking sea of lights and colourful costumes accentuated by dancers and singers accompanying some floats, moving to the rhythmic beat of the tassa drums while some lucky spectators jostled to catch sweets thrown into the crowd.

More than a dozen fabulously decorated floats had assembled at the Shri Krishna Mandir in Campbellville before moving

west along Campbell Avenue into Sandy Babb Street, north into J.B. Singh Road, and east along the Rupert Craig Highway as the motorcade wended its way to the LBI Community Centre Ground, ECD. The motorcades have grown over the years to include artistic depictions of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, most notably Mother Lakshmi, hailed as the Goddess of light and wealth. Children dressed as the God Vishnu and the Goddess Lakshmi lent the event an enviable display of creativity as the marvellous pieces glided through the streets.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will nevertheless be celebrating Diwali today (November 11, 2015) in the face of claims from other Hindu organisations that the correct date is November 10 (yesterday), which has been decreed a national holiday by the Government.

TOO SIGNIFICANT The motorcades commenced in 1974 after the Sabha’s President, the late Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud, thought that the festival of Diwali was too significant an occasion to just be restricted to the lighting of diyas on Diwali night.

While Diwali is popularly known as the

‘Festival of Lights’, the most significant spiritual meaning is “the awareness of the inner light”.

In Hinduism, across Guyana, Diwali is the homecoming of Lord Rama after a 14year exile in the forest, and his victory over Ravana. In the legend, the people of Ayodhya (the capital of his kingdom) welcomed Rama by lighting rows of lamps.

The story behind Diwali and the manner of celebration varies from region to region.

For Hindus, Diwali is one of the most important festivals of the year. Families celebrate Diwali by performing traditional activities together in their homes, and this event takes on a life of its own, with persons from all walks of life participating as either spectators or participators in the festival of lights being celebrated. The event features festive fireworks, worship, sharing of sweets and lighting of diyas.

Traditionally, Diwali marks the end of the harvest season. Farmers give thanks for the bounty of the year gone by, and pray for a good harvest for the year to come.

Diwali, the “victory of good over evil” is a holiday of joy. It is the time when devotees gather with loved ones to celebrate family and friends, and the prosperity God has

bestowed upon them. Diwali also marks the New Year. For some, the day of Diwali itself is the first day of the New Year; and for others, New Year’s Day is the day following Diwali. But for all this, the season is one of heralding in the New Year.

On Diwali Day, devotees clean every room of the house, dust every corner of the garage, sweep behind bookshelves, vacuum under beds and empty cabinets.

But what about our hearts? When was the last time that we swept out our hearts?

When did we last empty them of all the dirt and garbage that have accumulated throughout our lives?

This is the true focus of the festival, the inward light of higher knowledge dispelling all ignorance that masks one’s true nature; not as the body, but as the unchanging, infinite, immanent and transcendent reality.

With this awakening come compassion and the awareness of the oneness of all things (higher knowledge). This brings joy or peace. According to the Hindu calendar, Amavasya or ‘no moon day’ is considered the perfect day to celebrate Diwali. This dark night comes after every fortnight; and in the month of Kartik, it marks this festival of lights and diyas.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

President Granger in Saudi Arabia - for Arab-South America Summit

By Ray Chickrie

RIYADH: The President of Guyana, David Granger, arrived late yesterday (Tuesday) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for the Fourth Summit of Arab and South American countries (ASPA) in an effort to use this bi-regional forum to advance economic and political ties with these blocs. Guyana is looking to secure some major investments from eastern countries in areas of food, energy, water,

first appearance at an ASPA Summit, and it comes amidst a major oil discovery in Guyana’s offshore waters which Caracas claims. Guyana has accused Venezuela of “economic terrorism.” Caracas has use it military power against Guyana, its tiny neighbour, to stymied economic development by use of force and intimidation to drive investors out, according to the Government of Guyana.

Granger can expect support from Arab Gulf states who are weary of aggression

increase in oil price will be of tremendous benefit to Iran and that’s something that the Gulf states clearly want to avoid.

The Vice President of Argentine, ?Amado Boudou; Minister of External Relations of Brazil, Mauro Luiz Iecker Vieira; Deputy Foreign Minister of Bolivia Juan Carlos Alurralde, Vice-President of Uruguay Raul Sendic, Chilean Minister of Energy and Special Presidential Envoy Maximo Pacheco, the Prime Minister of Peru, Pedro Cateriano and the Foreign Minister

Riyadh Summit.

On Monday the foreign ministers of Guyana and Suriname attended a meeting of their counterparts. ASPA foreign ministers on both sides reviewed bilateral relations in a number of political, economic and cultural fields and looked into how to push for broader relations in all domains for the benefit of all parties. They also discussed the latest regional and global developments and reviewed Riyadh draft declaration which will culminate the 4th Summit be-

President David Granger arrived in Saudi Arabia yesterday to attend a major conference. The President is accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge tourism and infrastructure.

Guyana, a small State, is keen to enhance multi-lateral and economic diplomacy and has touted the idea of setting up an investment office in the Arab Gulf. It is this focus on “economic diplomacy” why President Granger chose Carl Greenidge, former Minister of Finance, Planning and Trade as top diplomat. Both Guyana and its neighbour, Suriname, much behind in developing trade and investment with the Arab region as compared to their South American neighbours. Trade between South America and the Arab bloc has now reached over $30 billion from only $6 billion in 2005.

Only three heads of states from South America are participating in the summit.

They are, Raphael Correa, Ecuador; David Granger, Guyana; and Nicholas Maduro, Venezuela. This is President Granger’s

from larger neighbours to their territorial sovereignty. The Venezuela-Iran-Syria alliance continues to be a major headache for these countries in the Gulf. And Guyana’s backing of Kuwait at the United Nations during the Iraqi invasion of that country is one reason why Kuwait and Guyana ties are strong. Kuwait continues to subsidize the Guyana embassy in its capital.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Minister of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, clad in typical wear of the Gulf, the Abaya, is on a charm offensive, trying to convince Arab states to increase the price of oil, which has been unsuccessful. Maduro is unlikely to make progress on his insistence on “a formula agreed between oil-producing countries to recover the price of crude oil.” The Sunni Gulf Arab states can withstand the sharp drop in oil price, but in Venezuela, there is an acute shortage of food. Moreover, an

of Colombia, María Ángela Holguín, are heading delegations from their respective countries in Riyadh.

The Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki Moon is also attending the Riyadh summit. Recently, he facilitated a meeting between Granger and Maduro at the sideline of the recent UN General Assembly.

ASPA bring together 22 member states of the Arab League and the 12 countries of South America (UNASUR). Many Arab heads of states are expected to attend the

Apology

IN our Tuesday November 10th edition, under the headline ‘Ushering in the

tween the Arab and South American leaders according to the Bahrain News Agency.

Guyana and Suriname with a significant Muslim population, both have diplomatic ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They are also members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) which is based in Jeddah.

Suriname is also a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) whose headquarter is in the Kingdom as well.

Suriname has an honourary consul in Riyadh.

Festival of Lights’, we erroneously referred to Minister within the Ministry of Education Ms Nicolette Henry as Minister Anette Ferguson. We regret this mistake and apologise to both ministers.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Let go of negative attitudes and let’s work together – Minister Henry at pre-Diwali observance

Minister Nicolette Henry addressing a pre-Diwali celebration on Monday

GUYANESE need to let go of negatives and recommit to work together in peace, love and harmony. This sentiment was pleadingly expressed by Minister within the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport, Nicolette Henry, on Monday.

She was speaking at the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport’s preDiwali celebration on Monday afternoon at Main Street. Minister Henry observed that the festival’s celebration cannot be restricted to just the lighting of the lamps (yesterday, Diwali day) by the Hindus.

Rather, she said, “Each one of us should seek to have that spiritual light ablaze in

our hearts and our minds, serving as a guide to our lives, as we live each day.”

The minister, noting that light is universal to human existence, urged that as “we celebrate this festival of lights, let us let go of all negative attitudes, hindrances and darkness and commit to working together in peace, harmony and love in all we do with our families, our work, our environment, our government, our country, our people and even our world.”

But even as she urged Guyanese to reflect on the message of Diwali this year, she reminded that very soon there will be another occasion for coming together and celebration.

Speaking about Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary, which will be observed next year, Minister Henry declared, “This will be an opportunity for the whole country to come together and for the whole world to look at us, and see how we have managed to build an incredibly strong

Minister within the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport, Nicolette Henry and Permanent Secretary Alfred King, among staff of the Department’s pre-Diwali celebration country of six peoples, a very proud country, and a country where we do look out for one another, notwithstanding our differences, faiths, religions and ethnicities.”

Also addressing the observance was Permanent Secretary Alfred King, who noted that Guyana is a diverse country, where culture is appreciated. He said the department has been observing cultural celebrations to highlight their significance and are part of the department’s effort at fostering “things that are most positive”.

As part of the Ministry’s celebration which saw staff participating in songs and dances, there was also the lighting of diyas (earthen

lamps).

Diwali is an ancient Hindu festival, celebrated in autumn (northern hemisphere) or spring (southern hemisphere) every year. It is one of the largest and brightest festivals in India. The festival spiritually signifies the victory of good over evil, and is celebrated to mark different historical events, stories or myths, but they all symbolise the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair.

The celebration of the festival includes distribution of sweets, and illuminating the inside and outside of a house with diyas.

Minister Nicolette Henry and PS Alfred King assisting with the lighting of diyas

Students of the Kuru Kuru Training Centre performing a dance at the pre-Diwali celebration

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Brazilians to enhance agriculture sector with investment in savannahs – Minister Noel Holder

By Rabindra Rooplall THE Intermediate and Rupununi savannahs are being looked at for development, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder has revealed, and Brazilians are expected to invest in Guyana’s agriculture sector as early as year’s end.

“What the country really needs to launch a massive agricultural drive is that we need to have our entire country soil-mapped, so we know exactly what areas are best suited for what kind of crops. Other countries have done it -- and Belize comes to mind -- and they have taken off in terms of agricultural investment,” Minister Holder explained.

“We have a fair idea of the economic returns from things like corn, soya bean, and cattle production -- both beef and dairy and small

ruminants; orchard crops, citrus and things of that nature. We have done some feasibly studies on that, so we are in a position to say to potential investors ‘here is a package of things you can do, these are the expected returns’,” the minister said.

He said Brazil was very successful in developing its Roraima area, and that tax concessions were offered to big companies – a thing which Guyana can also do.

Steps are to be taken to enable Guyana’s agricultural produce to enter Brazil, following a meeting, earlier this year in Boa Vista, between Agriculture Minister Noel Holder and an advisor to the Governor of Roraima.

While engaged in talks with the former Governor and current Special Advisor to the Governor of Roraima, Neudo Ribeiro Campos, Minister Holder said, he expressed

Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder Guyana’s support for any efforts aimed at fostering closer cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Several issues relative to cross border trade, the road from Lethem to Linden, a deep water harbor, and closer cooperation in the sharing of skills and expertise were also discussed. Campos promised

BROAD APPROACH NEEDED - to address challenges faced by elderly in institutions GOVERNMENT will be taking a comprehensive approach at the policy level, to safeguard the country’s elderly from neglect and abuse in light that a significant number of them are being nursed in private and public institutions.

Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence, revealed that the Administration is well aware of some of the challenges the elderly face in residential care settings.

However, she noted that these issues will be addressed shortly, as promised by the Government, when it took office six months ago.

“What I came and I met was a work in progress. In terms of the standards of the home, it was talked about, but we have not found anything that indicated that work was done by the Commission of the Family…these are among the list of things that we have for the Commission for the Elderly, that will be established very soon,” Minister Lawrence explained. Suggested names for the latter Minister of Social Commission are currently before Cabinet for consideration, Protection, Volda Lawrence according to a statement from the Government Information Agency (GINA).

Minister Lawrence noted that the issue of care for the elderly has to be looked at in “a holistic way”, and not only in the homes but also in terms of who are taken into a home, what are the services being provided, and if caregivers at the institutions are adequately trained.

With the establishment of the Commission for the Elderly, and the proactive role of the Social Protection Ministry, there will be a structure to reduce incidents of neglect, as well as for the monitoring of the standards of care provided to older people in private and public institutions.

action that would allow Guyana’s agriculture produce into Brazil. Agriculture produce from Guyana is currently blocked, due to fears that the Carambola Fruit Fly may be present here.

Through the assistance o f t h e I n t e r- A m e r i c a n Institute for Co-operation on Agriculture (IICA), Guyana was able to develop an information sharing system that allows easy reporting on the Carambola Fruit Fly. In its 2011 report, IICA noted that technical officers from Guyana’s Ministry of Agriculture undertook eight field trips along the GuyanaBrazil border.

Campos extended an invitation for a technical team from Guyana to meet with its counterparts in Brazil to iron out issues of cross border trade.

“Trade with Guyana remains an important part of our Government’s agenda, and we will work to ensure that all avenues (are) sorted (out) and our relationship progress(es) even further,” he said.

The meeting between G u y a n a ’s A g r i c u l t u r e Minister and the Brazilian State official also allowed for Brazil to again express its keen interest in working with Guyana towards construction of the road from Lethem to

Linden, a deep water harbour, and the establishment of a hydro electricity generating facility for the supply of power to both countries.

The meeting between the two Governments was facilitated by NF Agriculture Inc, a Brazilian company currently engaged in a pilot project for the cultivation of soya beans and corn at Ebini, in the Berbice River.

T h e p ro j e c t b y N F Agriculture Inc. involves the growing of soya beans and corn, and is expected to significantly aid the Caribbean in reducing its imports of those commodities.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

APNU+AFC Chief Whip says…

Someone will be appointed Deputy Speaker

- whether or not PPP/C takes up post

APNU+AFC Chief Whip, Amna Ally

By Svetlana Marshall WHETHER or not the

Speaker of the House, Dr Barton Scotland

PPP/C General Secretary, Clement Rohee

People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) decides to take up the post of Deputy Speaker, someone will be appointed, APNU+AFC Chief Whip Amna Ally told the Chronicle yesterday.

Ally said it is critical for the National Assembly to have both a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker. After defeating the PPP/C during the May 11, 2015 General and Regional Elections, the APNU+AFC Government appointed Guyanese Attorney-at-Law and former diplomat, Dr. Barton Scotland as the Speaker of the National Assembly in

that “we (the National Assembly) cannot continue like this.”

Ally, who also serves as the Minister of Social Cohesion, said when the time is right, the post will be opened for nomination, giving the PPP/C an opportunity to nominate someone but if the party fails to nominate an individual, the APNU+AFC will make a collective decision to either nominate one of its members or a member of civil society. “If the PPP/C don’t want the position, it will be taken…because we

June.

It is protocol for the Opposition to nominate the Deputy Speaker, and with the PPP/C being the only Opposition party in the House, it was expected that one of its members would have been nominated for the position. But during his weekly press briefing on Monday, PPP/C General Secretary, Clement Rohee said the party has no interest in the post, and therefore is in no rush to nominate one of its members.

“If the PPP/C doesn’t want to take it up, it is going to be taken up,” Ally told this newspaper, adding

believe in leadership,” Ally reiterated.

The Speaker of the House, D r.

Scotland, oversees the administration of the House and chairs a number of committees including the Parliament Management Committee.

The Deputy Speaker replaces the Speaker when the latter is unavoidably absent. In the 10th Parliament, the late Deborah Backer and Attorney-at-Law Basil Williams, who is currently the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, served as Deputy Speakers.

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Crabwood Creek gets huge boost from overseas-based Guyanese THE Crabwood Creek Sports Club, one of the top cricket clubs on the Upper Corentyne, Berbice, was recently the recipient of a set of cricket apparel and gear, compliments of a number of overseas-based former members, some of whom are also members of The Florida/Guyana Hope Foundation.

Among the items received were 15 sets of cricket uniforms, wicket-keeping and batting gloves..

The items were first handed over to popular Corentyne businessman George Baijnauth, who is also president of the Upper Corentyne Rotary Club and the Guyana/ Florida Chapter.

The items were then presented to secretary/treasurer of the CWC Sports Club, Ramesh Debicharran,

by Baijnauth in the presence of members of the club, donors and well-wishers at a simple ceremony held on Monday at the Skeldon Estate Training Building.

Baijnauth, on behalf of the donors, expressed gratitude to the donors for remembering where they came from. He called upon the club members to make full use of the items and not to misuse them.

He stated that the items are very expensive and should be used for their intended purpose.

Mr Debicharran, in accepting the items thanked Baijnauth and the donors for their generosity and kindness.

He gave the assurance that the items would be used entirely for the purpose intended.

The club, which competes in all cricket competitions in the Crabwood Creek area, has about 20 active members at present. It has a functioning executive, led by Dennis D’Andrade as president, Lionel Seergobin vice-president and cricket captain.

The hardworking secretary/ treasurer is Ramesh Debicharran while the vice-captain of the club is Drashan Chalitar.

Among those who contributed to acquiring the equipment were Naresh, Ramesh, Raj, Joshua, Joey, Joseph, Joel and Panchu.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

Ramnarine supports CARICOM Report

FORMER president of the West Indies Players Association (WIPA), Dinanath Ramnarine, has described as spot-on the recent recommendations of the Review Panel of the CARICOM Cricket Governance Committee, which, among other things, have called for the dissolution of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).

The panel, set up in conjunction with the WICB, listed several shortcomings of the current board structure and management of the WICB, and its attendant territorial boards of Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, the Windward Islands, the Leeward Islands and Guyana.

This, the review panel said, has resulted in continued decline of West Indies cricket, which languish at the bottom of the premier International Cricket Council Test and one-day international rankings.

“I can see the thinking, and the train of thought of the review panel, and believe the recommendations hit a lot of nails on the head,” Ramnarine told The Gleaner.

“There is great urgency for restructuring, especially at the territorial board levels, which continue to operate at a level that does not support good governance,” urged Ramnarine.

“For example, when

last has Guyana had a proper, democratically elected board?

“The current structure of the WICB and general structures of West Indies

DINANATH RAMNARINE cricket are weak, and have failed the people of the Caribbean, and I believe the time has come for serious change,” he added.

Chaired by University of The West Indies, Cave Hill Campus principal, Professor Eudine Barriteau, the review panel said the current structure of West Indies cricket was “incapable” of delivering desired results.

“The WICB and Territorial Boards have been able to ignore the extent to which their operations lack transparency and account-

ability, because the current structures do not respect these basic tenets of good governance within their operations,” said the panel “Our main recommendation (therefore) is that the Board should be immediately dissolved, and, all current members resign, and an Interim Board selected.”

The Interim Board, the review panel recommended, should then work with a change management expert to install a new governance framework.

The panel also went on to explain that its suggestions are not too far from that of which Australia instituted in recent times, as a means of moving with a changed global business landscape.

Ramnarine, a former director of the WICB when he was head of WIPA, also commended the suggestion of an Interim Board.

“It is a good suggestion, and probably the best way forward at this time,” Ramnarine said. “The board currently lacks the requisite persons with the right expertise to chart the way forward.”

The five-member review panel also included former West Indies player, Deryck Murray, Sir Dennis Byron, president of the Caribbean Court of Justice, president of the Grenada Cricket Association, Dwain Gill, and president of the Caribbean Development Bank, Warren Smith.

Waterton double sinks Ann’s Grove ... Victoria Kings down Golden Grove 2-0 TRAVIS Waterton netted a double to see Topp XX past Ann’s Grove 2-0 while Victoria Kings got the better of fellow East Coast Demerara side, Golden Grove, by a similar scoreline, when the Petra Organisation/ GT&T Round-Robin/ Knockout League continued on Monday.

Teams from Berbice, Linden and East Coast of Demerara will be battling for the $500 000 first-place prize.

Playing in the opening game at the Victoria Community Centre ground,

Waterton, a former national player, scored both his

TRAVIS WATERTON goals late in the game; first

in the 83rd minute and then in the 88th minute.

Meanwhile, in the second encounter, veteran striker Winston Pompey rolled back the years when he scored the first goal for Victoria Kings in the 48th minute and then Alden Lawrence put the icing on the cake in the 72nd minute to hand the home side the victory.

Apart from the winners’ purse, $250 000 will go to the second-placers, with third-placers collecting $125 000 and fourth-placers $75 000.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

WICB reinstates Phil Simmons

THE West Indies Cricket Board reinstated Phil Simmons yesterday to his duties as head coach of the West Indies senior men’s team.

Simmons was suspended from his duties as head coach after inappropriately commenting on and disclosing the specific voting of individual selectors of the WICB’s Selection Panel when selecting the West Indies Men’s Senior Squad to tour Sri Lanka in October and November 2015.

According to a release from the WICB, Simmons’ reinstatement was on condition after the board had issued the ‘Windies’ head coach a letter of reprimand for his inappropriate public

comments.

In an audio recording issued by the WICB, Simmons had offered an apology, stating: “i extend a public apology to all whom I may have offended. I have personally apologised to my fellow selectors of the WICB and now doing so publically. I am looking forward to putting this behind me and doing the job I enjoy with the West Indies senior men’s team, to continue heading towards the goal which we have in sight.”

Going forward, and as a separate matter, the WICB will immediately investigate the allegations made

by Simmons, and take the necessary and appropriate action following this inves-

tigation.

Simmons was suspended with immediate effect as

West Indies head coach Phil Simmons

West Indies coach, two days after he expressed his unhappiness with the ODI squad selected for the Sri Lanka tour.

Simmons was caught unawares by the decision, which was communicated to him in an email from WICB chief executive Michael Muirhead, as he was in the UK preparing to join the squad in London on their way to Sri Lanka.

Though West Indies’ limited-overs squads for the tour had not been announced, Simmons revealed that “interference from outside” at a selection meeting on September 23 had kept all-rounders Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard out of the ODI side.

Simmons said that he,

as coach, and chairman of selectors Clive Lloyd had voted for their inclusion, but were outnumbered 3-2 despite Holder also wanting Bravo and Pollard in the team.

“I think it’s disappointing from the fact that I haven’t got the best 50-over ODI squad that we can select in the Caribbean,” Simmons had said at a media conference, at the conclusion of the West Indies training camp at the 3Ws Oval in Bridgetown.

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

ly, when we went into the selection (meeting) we lost it 3-2. Him and myself - the captain (Holder) doesn’t have a vote in this - but the captain also gave his views as to why they need to be back.”

Bravo and Pollard have not been considered for ODI selection since they were dropped for the series in South Africa in January this year, and their omission from the World Cup squad generated plenty of debate.

At the time Lloyd had said he had spoken to the two players and explained to them that the selection panel wanted to move on and give youngsters more chances.

Persaud set sights on podium finish WITH the superbike clash expected to be one of the more action-packed events on the Seaboard Marine Caribbean Motor Racing Championships (CMRC) card, come November 15, youngster Kevin Persaud is setting his sights on a podium finish.

Persaud, who was a part of the touring contingent for the Jamaica leg at Jamwest this year, as well as the Barbados leg at Bushy Park, says that those outings have fuelled his fire for better performances.

Persaud told Chronicle Sport, “I’m up with the faster guys now and I expect to get on the podium. Most important (to me) is to gain the most points for myself and team Guyana in the Caribbean Motor Racing Association (CMRA) Championship,” adding, “the bike is running exceptional. Still needs a little fine-tuning and that should be finished before Friday.”

Stating that while he is not 100% fit, he believes that he still has enough in the tank to take him through three races on Sunday, noting that his bike has undergone lots of changes since the Barbados leg.

“All the electronics have been installed and working perfectly. Suspension and chassis is perfect since the tuner from the United States has been working with me. The bike has gotten half a second faster than previous outing, and it is expected to pick up another .2 to .5 of a second once the fine-tuning is completed.” said Persaud.

The 16-year-old has cited running with the front pack of the Vieira clan, (Matthew, Elliot and Stephen) as well as Joel

Persaud chases the pack Neblett and Carlos Rodriguez as one of his major goals.

He sent a strong message to the invading riders coming from Barbados, Trinidad, Jamaica and the United States,

WICB never committed to change structure

CONFUSION seems to be the order of the day yet again in West Indies cricket, as a top official of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) is saying that the sentiments expressed by the CARICOM cricket review committee, set up to deal with the governance of the WICB, is being less than honest in their remarks since the report was made public.

Calling the governance structure of the WICB “antiquated”, “obsolete” and “anachronistic”, the CARICOM cricket review panel has recommended the WICB be dissolved and all current members resign.

It has also recommended that the WICB be replaced by

an interim board, which will work with a change management expert to install a new governance framework.

Set up to review the governance and administrative structure of the WICB, the panel interviewed various stakeholders including the management of the board, renowned former West Indies players, current players, territorial boards and a host of other key personalities attached to the game in the region.

Based on its findings, the panel concluded that the WICB’s governance model had failed to evolve and that it did not prioritise accountability and transparency.

According to the official, “They mentioned that the

WICB agreed at the fact-finding meeting we held in April, to adopt their findings because we were part of the process that involved putting together the committee. This is far from the truth and it is very disappointing that these untruths would come from people of such high integrity.”

The official continued: “None of the 14 of us at that meeting on the day ever said anything about adopting this report in a wholesale manner.

What was said at the point in time by the president of the WICB, Dave Cameron, was that we would accept the report when it is finished and then we would look at it, call a meeting to review the findings and take it from there.

“We never said that we were going to just take this and run and this is very unfortunate, as the committee seems bent on backing us into a corner, but rest assured that would not happen. The WICB will meet on December 12 in St Lucia and then we will have a look at the report.

“Also there have been calls from some quarters to have the meeting at an earlier time and I am hearing that CARICOM will be pushing for that meeting to be earlier. We have our ordinary board meeting on December 12 and this gives the members ample time to look at the report, so they could have meaningful dialogue when the meeting is held.”

reminding them to beware of him and his talents, especially aboard his revamped Kawasaki ZX6R. Persaud will join the rest of the Guyanese in a battle to retain the Country Championship which they won last year.

As it is, Guyana sit third in the Country Championships with 511 points, behind third-leg hosts Barbados (533) and second-round hosts Trinidad and Tobago (658).

The final leg set for the South Dakota Circuit.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday November 11, 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: Suranga Lakmal-6 wickets Sunil Narine-4 wickets

Today’s Quiz:

Which SL had the best bowling figures in a single game of the recent WI/SL ODI series?

Which WI had the best bowling figures in a single game of the recent WI/SL ODI series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

GT&T National Indoor Championships

GCC and PEPSI Hikers in thrilling 2-2 draw on opening night

I T WA S t h e p e r f e c t s t a r t t o t h e GT&T-sponsored National Indoor Hockey Championships, as the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) and Pepsi Hikers played to an exciting 2-2 draw at the National Gymnasium on Monday.

As the evening wound down for the opening night the defending champs PEPSI Hikers and GCC took to the floor for the highly anticipated men’s first division matchup.

The two rivals shared the success in recent years and have created more than a few memorable duels that went to the wire. The teams picked up just where they left off, as it was apparent that the crowd was in for an entertaining treat from the opening whistle.

Though both teams stalked their opponents like a bull and matador, the Hikers won a penalty corner from their first major penetrating attack of the match and defender Shane Samuels tested the roof of the net with remarkable power and accuracy to give the Hikers a 1-0 lead.

The game settled into a cautious but exciting balance of threatening attacks at both ends until the elusive Robert France slipped by the GCC defender on the left wing to gain a good look at goal.

Although France’s shot was skilfully blocked by goalkeeper Rawl Davson, National and Hikers captain Devin Munroe fired back the rebound to give his side a 2-0

cushion three minutes before halftime.

With the half all but over, three minutes was all it took for national midfielder Orland Semple to score by latching onto two passes in like manner in the 18th and 19th minutes, levelling the scores at 2-2 with a pair of diving finishes.

GCC’s Eric Hing seemed to have stolen the victory for his side deep into the second half when he slid a shot from the narrowest of angles to catch the Hikers keeper unprepared.

With GCC up by one goal and only three minutes remaining till full time, the Hikers’ chances of saving the game slipped further away when guest player Orlando Guirola of Cuba received a green card and a temporary suspension from the playing area.

Hikers striker Jamarj Assanah chose this moment to show his class, as he received a pass from the left before carving his way through three GCC defenders to fire a shot at goalkeeper Davson.

Davson parried the shot in fine fashion but captain Devin Munroe was there once again for the put-back, and final goal of the match, drawing the score at 3-3.

Earlier in the evening in the other men’s first division matches, Old Fort schooled the Jaguars, 7-3, while the Pumas dispatched Saints by 5-2.

The lone ladies match saw a brilliant performance by Panthers striker Shebiki Baptiste

Shebiki Baptiste scores the second goal for the Panthers. en route to a 3-0 blanking of the Hikers.

Baptiste scored the opening two goals for her side and put the game beyond doubt before Tiffany Solomon added the third and final goal from a penalty corner.

In the men’s second division competition, Old Fort defeated Saints by 3-0 while the battle of newcomers saw

Phoenix edge past St Stanislaus College by 1-0.

GCC then rounded out a solid evening of matches with a 1-0 victory over the Hikers.

Matches continue for the rest of the week at the national gymnasium with the final being played from 17:00hrs on Sunday.

16 teams to compete in Smalta/Ministry of Public Health Girls U-11 football tournament

THE Petra Organisation Girls U-11 football tournament, sponsored

by Ansa McAl/Smalta and Ministry of Public

Health, will see 16 teams drawn from across the capital compete for top honours and bragging rights.

This is the second installation of the tournament which was launched last Monday and set to kick off on Saturday November 14.

Director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca, upon noting the importance of the tournament, said that his entity is “hap-

Flying Ace Cycle Club stages successful ‘Track Attack’ cycle and athletic event THE annual Flying Ace Cycle Club (FACC) ‘Track Attack’ cycling event was a success last Sunday, at the Area ‘H’ ground, Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice.

The day’s activity was intense and very competitive with a number of cyclists’ putting in outstanding performances.

Andrew Hicks dominated the Open category. Curtis Dey had things his way in the U-16 category while Whitney Poyer was the top performer among the females. She got the better of Shenika Tosharia and former national female champion Maricia Dick.

Hicks, of the Trojan Cycle Club, was in top form, as he rode away with the `Devil Take the Hindmost’, the 20lap and the eight-lap events.

Curtis Dey of the FACC rode away

with the U-16 six- and five-lap events.

On the distaff side, up-and-coming female cyclist Whitney Poyer, also of the FACC, showed that she will be a force to be reckoned with, as she won the female five- and six-lap races.

There were athletics events contested during the day also.

Several participants, who are currently preparing for the National Schools Athletics Championship in Georgetown, used the opportunity to warm up making impressive performances.

Participants were drawn from all over Berbice including New Amsterdam, Canje, West Berbice and Corentyne.

The top performers received cash, trophies and other memorabilia. The coordinator was cycling coach Ran-

dolph Roberts.

Roberts was pleased that he was able to give the athletes an opportunity to compete a few days before the National Schools Athletics Championships.

Among those who contributed towards the successful staging of the day’s event were: COURTS Guyana Limited, Republic Bank, A. Ali and Sons, Water Chris Hotel, Refigure Construction, King’s Jewellery, Arokium Funeral Parlour, Deputy Superintendent of Police Lyndon Isle, Sergeant Lawrence Thomas, Steve Macedo Taxi Service, Sentinel Security, Massy Group of Companies, Watterson Catering, Imran and Sons, Bibi Khan of Bartica, Deolal Sooklall Tyre Shop and Chief Fire Officer Marlon Gentle.

py to be assisting in areas that we think need some attention, the amount of effort that FIFA is making in terms of female football” Angelica Rodney, representing Ansa McAl, said that her company is excited to once again be associated with the tournament, and more so this year being title sponsors.

“We know that sports and exercise play a vital role for the development of our young people and it is refreshing to see young ladies get a chance to compete especially in football,” said Rodney.

“It is important that the females get these types of opportunities to showcase their talents and that the experiences are always positive … I would like to challenge the Petra Organisation to get more

tournaments like these out of Georgetown as well, because they too need these opportunities,” said Nicholas Fraser, on behalf of the Ministry of Education.

Rawle Toney, the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Communication Director, said that the Federation is always supportive of programmes that will help to expand the game and more so women’s football.

Toney added that world governing body FIFA has been pressing its member associations to place emphasis on women’s football and as such, the GFF is happy that organisations, such as Petra, are making the investment.

The tournament will be played on a round-robin/knockout format, with the top team taking home trophies and medals.

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 11, 2015

MVP Keon Douglas leads St Angela’s Primary to COURTS Pee Wee title THE CHEERS, the tears of joy and the smiles of the faces of St Angela’s Primary students, teachers and supporters were fitting for the final day’s play in the 2015 COURTS Pee Wee Football Tournament at the BANKS DIH Thirst Park ground, yesterday.

Led by an all-round performance from Keon Douglas, St Angela’s Primary hoisted the trophy for the first time in the tournament’s five-year history following their 3-1 win over Enterprise Primary.

The tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) Keon Douglas netted a double (33rd and 40th minutes) while Antonio McArthur scored in the 29th minute to hand St Angela’s Primary the victory.

Seon Archibald had scored for Enterprise Primary in the 36th minute, but it wasn’t enough to bring his side back into the contest which was dominated at both ends by St Angela’s Primary.

For the win, St Angela’s Primary secured a computer, a television, the Championship trophy, medals and a set of team uniforms, all compliments of the tournament’s title sponsors COURTS Guyana Inc. Enterprise Primary had to settle for the second-place trophy, medals, six footballs and a computer for their school.

Douglas netted a total of 16 goals in the tournament to cop the Highest Goalscorer award while his teammate Timeni Cort went home with the Best Goalkeeper trophy, only conceding one goal in the tournament.

The teams were met by General Manager of COURTS Claude DeHaas, Sport Director Christo-

pher Jones, representative of the Ministry of Education Nicholas Fraser, GFF Director of Marketing

St Angela’s Primary footballer Keon Douglas receives his MVP award from Director of Sport Christopher Jones.

and Communications Rawle Toney, Marketing

Manager of COURTS Pernell Cummings and Petra co-Director Troy Mendonca before the kick-off and then it was down to business.

After a scoreless first half, McArthur scored what could have been the best goal of the tournament, when he curled his right-footed shot to the top right-hand corner of Enterprise Primary’s goal and it was pandemonium at the venue.

Already up 1-0, Douglas, a clear crowd favourite, scored what was then his 15th goal of the tournament to hand his school (St Angela’s Primary) a 2-0 advantage.

However, thanks to Archibald, Enterprise Primary were brought back into the game to bring his team’s title chances back to life.

But, like throughout the tournament, Douglas rounded off his double and his 16th goal of the COURTS Pee Wee Tournament, when he dazzled the huge crowd with some fancy footwork then buried his shot to the top left-hand side of the goal.

Sensing a victory, St Angela’s Primary’s supporters burst out in wild celebration and soon after, the referee blew his Fox40 to signal the end of the game and that St Angela’s were the 2015 champs.

Meanwhile, St Pius Primary, one of the most successful schools in the tournament, finished third, after defeating rivals West Ruimveldt 5-4 on penalty kicks.

The two sides ended regulation time tied 1-1, with Sherwyn Reid scoring for St Pius in the 10th minute while Mark Cameron found the net in the 19th minute for West Ruimveldt.

Jumbo Jet stable takes top honours Goodwill Boy upsets field to take feature event

THE SUN was out in all its glory and the large crowd had a day filled with action, when the Jumbo Jet business conglomerate and racing stables, in collaboration with the Bush Lot United Turf Club, successfully staged their one day ‘Keeping-Bush-LotAlive Horse Race’ on Sunday, at the Club Track Sea View Park, Corentyne Berbice.

The Jumbo Jet and Shariff stables were the dominant stables on show, with Jumbo Jet taking Champion stable honours. But the day belonged to Goodwill Boy of the Jagdeo stable as the horse put in a sterling performance with a strong run down the homestretch to upstage its more illustrious opponents and create a major upset to take the feature event.

The event was for four-year-old animals and those classified E and Lower.

With animals such as Spit Fire, Jack in My Style Unsettled, Red and Lovely, Giant Time and Dulahan in the race, Goodwill Boy, ridden by the

season campaigner Paul Delph and trained by the tactician Tribowhan Jagdeo was entered as an outsider.

Pre-race favourite Spit Fire of the Shariff stable was out early and led for most of the way with jockey Colin Ross looking in full control.

The others came up to challenge and were quickly brushed off. Into the homestretch Spit Fire still had things under control and seemed to be heading for an easy win, but up came Goodwill Boy on the inside, with a strong challenge to surprise Spit Fire.

The win was worth $600 000 and the Banks DIH trophy. Unsettled held on for third with Red and Lovely coming in fourth in the one-mile event.

Keep on Swinging, of the Jumbo Jet stable, ridden by Ramnauth, waited nicely, and with a strong finish was able to take control down the homestretch to win the $400 000 and trophy in the three-year-old West Indies- and Guyana-bred, event, ahead

of Settling Star, There was no stopping Wichie Poo of the Shariff stable with Colin Ross, as it won from gate to pole in the twoyear-old Guyana and West Indies bred 1200m even with stable mate Firing Line, rushing past Red Rocket and Isn’t She Charming.

There was a one-two victory for horses of the Jumbo Jet stable in the G1 and Lower 1300m event as Rosetta, with Paul Delph, finished with a blaze of speed to edge past Release the Beast and take home the $300 000 first prize and trophy.

Sent From Above of the Lenny Singh stable with Delph again in the saddle, showing them why it was given that name, as it whipped the field with a gate-to-pole victory in the H and Lower event as Fresh Again finished strongly ahead of Royal Empire and Goldikova.

The J and Lower race was won by Party Time ahead of Red Jet, Little and Blue Lightning.

De Gump was in winners’ row in

the K class event as it triumphed over Massa Quita, Another Storm and Amazon Warrior.

The Jumbo Jet stable made a clean sweep of the individual prizes.

Apart from winning the Champion stable accolade,. Paul Delph was adjudged Champion Jockey with trainers Nazrudeen ‘Jumbo Jet’ Mohammed Jr and Carlton ‘Black Mouth’ Pluck sharing the honours.

They all received trophies compliment of Ramesh Sunich of the Trophy Stall.

The Police, led by Assistant Superintendent Guy Nurse and Sergeant Cynthia Kelly, were commended for doing a good job during the incident-free day of racing.

Organiser Nazrudeen Mohammed expressed his pleasure of how the day’s activity was conducted.

The next event, organised by the group is the Guyana Cup Re-match, set for December 20 at the Port Mourant Turf Club.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

WICB reinstates Phil Simmons See story on page 33

MVP Keon Douglas leads St Angela’s Primary to COURTS Pee Wee title

See story on page 35

Champions! 2015 Champions St Angela’s Primary

Persaud set sights on podium finish

GT&T National Indoor Championships

Flashback: Kevin Persaud waves the chequered flag at the August 2015 meeting of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club.

(Samuel Maughn photos)

See story on page 33

GCC and PEPSI Hikers in thrilling 2-2 draw on opening night See story on page 34

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Keon McKenzie controls the ball for the Pumas WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2015