Chronicle 12 11 2015

SCANDAL No. 104398

FRIDAY DECEMBER 11, 2015

Price: $80

– Ed Ahmad’s GT land approved in 7 days

LENding again

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1 dead, 4 escape 9

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as pit caves in

…$155M cleared for micro-enterprises at Linden

The mining pit, which caved in on Thursday killing Terrence Lobert (Svetlana Marshall photo)

A couple receive their cheque from President David Granger at the re-launch of the Linden Enterprise Network

$750M awarded in contracts

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Today we commence a twice weekly photo feature called “Who’s on Page 2”.

Readers interested in being featured can send their photos with a brief bio to Gnnleditorial@gmail. com or drop it in our box at Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. "Who's on Page 10" will appear every Wednesday and Friday.

LEN lending again 2

By Vanessa Braithwaite

The launch of the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN) saw the awarding of 40 loan awards to Lindeners who presented a business plan for new and existing ventures.

Even though LEN has been established since December, 2009, the lending institution was unable to award loans as they were in a dire need for financing.

According to IMC Chairman and LEN Board member, Orin Gordon, even though LEN had the best

portfolio for a lending institution, there seemed to be some sinister plan to stymie the development of LEN and Linden on the whole.

The Board had made several engagements with the previous government to provide adequate funding for LEN but was only granted S4 million out of the $1.5 billion requested over the years.

“This inadequate funding was not in cohesion with the initial purpose of LEN to provide loans for entrepreneurial development,” mentioned Gordon. The objective of LEN was to provide loans for

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 11, 2015

President David Granger applauds as a young girl cuts the ceremonial ribbon for the re-launching of the Linden Enterprise Network. Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin and others look on (Samuel Maughn photo)

NOW POSSIBLE This has only been made

possible now with the budgetary subvention of $150 000 000. According to the

CEO of LEN, Valarie Patterson, this government funding has ended all of LEN’s woes

Turn to page 14 ►

Latoya Towler, 31, is single and has been a teacher for the past seven years.

She told the Guyana Chronicle that she loves children and teaching makes her happy because the reward is priceless.

Her hobbies are reading and eating out.

Towler is advising: “No matter how awful you feel... get up, dress up, show up and never ever give up!”

Who’s on Page 2

persons at the grass root level who were unable to meet the requirements of lending intuitions such as banks.

With the establishment of LEN, loans were to be easily accessible to the residents of Linden, unfortunately this did not occur.

Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin speaks at the relaunching of the Linden Enterprise Network (Samuel Maughn photo)

Scandal

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 11, 2015

– Ed Ahmad’s GT land approved in 7 days

By Ravin Singh A LAND deal entered into by mortgage fraud convict, New York-based Guyanese businessman Ed Ahmad and then President Bharrat Jagdeo in 2008, regarding the leasing of prime government land at the intersection of Thomas Street and Vlissengen Road, reeks of corruption, Minister of State Joseph Harmon said.

The minister made this disclosure yesterday at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency where he noted that the controversial land deal was completed in just seven days.

The lease was given to Generation Complex Inc, a company owned by Ed Ahmad of 105-20 Liberty Avenue Queens, New York.

Ahmad had applied for the 3.41 acres of government land on May 22, 2008 and the application was approved on May 27, 2008 – a mere five days after.

On May 29, the then government had served a

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

Convicted businessman Ed Ahmad

notice to the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), whose headquarters is next to the plot, indicating that they were going to survey the land on the same day.

According to the minister, a cadastral survey was executed and the plan was registered the same day.

The lease for the land, which stipulated a $50,000 annual payment, was then issued to Ahmad on May 30.

Last month Harmon had told reporters that the transaction was never recorded under the Lands and Survey Commission but included

in a lease document stashed away in the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) under the stewardship of Winston Brassington.

LEGAL BATTLE At that time too, the government and the GPSU had been engaging in a legal battle regarding ownership of the land. This battle, Harmon said, was occurring simultaneously with the granting of the lease.

However, in pointing out what the shortcomings of the deal were, Harmon

explained that for the issue of a lease, notice has to be served on the surrounding land owners and they must be given an opportunity to object.

“So if you say you serve on the same day you do your survey, something is wrong with that. There is a time stipulated for them to file for objection. If all of that is done on the same day, then you call that a one-day plan and something is legally wrong with that,” he noted.

Further, he revealed that the whole process of making an application before the Lands and Survey Commission requires several actions to be taking by the commission itself.

These include, inter alia, real due diligence of checking that the land is actually owned by the parties and that rates and taxes are paid on the land.

After these processes would have been completed, which are necessary for the granting of the lease, it is then taken to the person, whose name the lease is signed in.

“So for all of that to take place, since the land is identified until he holds the lease in his hands, for that to happen in just seven days is more than administrative efficiency, it reeks of corruption,” Minister Harmon told reporters.

150-ROOM HOTEL The design of the complex was listed to have facilitated, inter alia, a hotel which was to bear a minimum of 150 rooms, restaurants, bars, a casino, clubs and exhibition halls.

The lease was pegged at $500,000 annually and after a certain period of time Generation Complex Inc would have been given an option to purchase the land without going through the normal advertisement processes, Harmon said.

However, Ahmad paid this fee for one year and discontinued. And by virtue of the lease, the minister noted that the government has taken steps to have the lease terminated and the land brought back into government use. But reports have

indicated that the lease has already been revoked; it happened in 2009.

OVERLOOKING CAMP AYANGANNA But the implications of having a structure of that nature erected on that spot was greater than one could see.

While the then administration had not seen it as an issue, Harmon noted that if a person stood at the top of the building, they could have seen the activities in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Base Camp Ayanganna.

The present government, when in opposition, also had concerns regarding a casino being in such close proximity with the army base and the issue of parking and congestion in the area.

And while there are no legal provisions barring the erection of such structures in close proximity of a military base, Harmon, a former GDF Lieutenant Colonel, opined that there are international practices and customs which oppose such practices.

Meanwhile, Ahmad, who has pleaded guilty to mortgage fraud in the US, will know his fate on January 15, 2016 when his sentencing will take place.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday December 11, 2015

Syrian opposition agree talks framework A MEETING of Syrian opposition politicians and rebels in Riyadh has produced a statement of principles to guide peace talks with the government.

The statement calls for the creation of “a pluralistic regime that represents all sectors of the Syrian people”, according to the Reuters news agency.

It also stresses that President Bashar al-Assad and his aides could play no part in any transitional period.

Earlier, the powerful rebel group Ahrar al-Sham withdrew from the conference.

It complained that figures it regarded as too close to the government were being given too prominent a role.

World powers want negotiations between a unified opposition delegation and President Bashar al-Assad’s government on a political solution to the four-and-ahalf-year conflict to start by

had agreed a framework for negotiations.

“An agreement has been reached on... a unified vision for the settlement process and a supreme committee that would act as a reference for the negotiating team, the composition of which will be specified later,” she said.

Reuters quoted a joint statement as saying that delegates had backed a “democratic mechanism through a pluralistic regime that represents all sectors of the Syrian people”. It would include women and would not discriminate on religious, sectarian or ethic grounds,

It is the first time most of the main rebel groups have been involved in peace moves January 1.

More than 250,000 people have been killed since an uprising against Assad began in March 2011. Eleven million others have been forced from their homes.

The two-day conference in the Saudi capital brought together representatives of the main Western-backed political opposition alliance, the National Coalition, and of the National Co-ordi-

nation Committee, which is mostly tolerated by the authorities in Damascus although some of its members have been harassed and detained.

Most of the main rebel factions, including Ahrar al-Sham, also sent delegations.

On Thursday afternoon, Suhair al-Atassi of the National Coalition told the AFP news agency that delegates

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the statement added.

Delegates also committed to preserving state institutions and restructuring the security forces, but they insisted Assad would have to leave power immediately.

Assad’s staunch ally Russia -- which launched an air campaign in September to prop up his government -- supports the implementation of the 2012 Geneva Communique, which calls for the establishment of a transitional administration.

But the President has said his departure is out of the question before elections are held, and recent-

ly warned that peace talks could not begin while the country was occupied by “terrorists” - a term he uses to describe all opponents.

Earlier, Ahrar al-Sham said it had withdrawn from the Riyadh conference because of the “main role” accorded to “personalities linked to the regime” - an apparent reference to members of the National Co-ordination Committee - and the inadequate representation of “revolutionary factions”.

Later reports suggested it had reversed its decision to pull out of the process.

(BBC News)

ISIS finance chief ‘killed in air strike’ THE finance chief of socalled Islamic State (IS) has been killed in air strikes by the US-led coalition, a US military spokesman has said.

Muwaffaq Mustafa Mohammed al-Karmoush, aka Abu Salah, and two other senior leaders were killed in the strikes which took place in “recent weeks”.

No further details were given.

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The coalition has been carrying out air strikes against IS militants in Iraq and Syria for over a year. One recently also killed an IS leader in Libya.

US military spokesman Colonel Steve Warren confirmed the deaths in a video call from the Iraqi capital, Baghdad.

Abu Salah is the code name for Muwaffaq Mustafa

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Mohammed al-Karmoush.

He appears on the US Treasury’s Counter Terrorism Designations list setting out sanctioned individuals.

It lists him as an Iraqi national who was born in 1973.

Colonel Warren called Abu Salah “one of the most senior and experienced members” of the militant group’s financial network.

“Killing him and his predecessors exhausts the knowledge and talent needed to co-ordinate funding within the organisation,” Colonel Warren said.

He said the other leaders killed were Abu Mariam, a senior chief responsible for extortion activities, and Abu Waqman al-Tunis, who co-ordinated the transfer of people, weapons and information.

On Twitter, Brett McGurk, special US presidential envoy for the global coalition to counter IS, said the three were killed “as part of the coalition campaign to destroy ISIL’s (Islamic State’s) financial infrastructure”.

On Monday, the Pentagon confirmed a US air strike had killed a senior IS leader in Libya.

Abu Nabil died after an F-15 jet targeted a compound in the eastern city of Derna on 13 November, it said. (BBC News)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday December 11, 2015

Dr Gonsalves wins another term THE ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) led by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves retained its slim majority of eight seats to the New Democratic Party (NDP) opposition’s seven in general elections held in St Vincent and the Grenadines on Wednesday.

However, the ULP has called for a recount in the North Leeward and South Leeward constituencies, both of

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves

which were won by the NDP. “I am humbled and honoured that the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines embraced our bold vision for the future and rejected the politics of hate,” Gonsalves said.

“We are looking into various issues in North Leeward and South Leeward and we are also calling for an immediate recount to ensure that all the votes are counted in those constituencies. There

are more rejected ballots than the margin and those ballots should be examined closely to determine the intent of the voters,” he noted.

The leader of the opposition Arnhim Eustace won his seat against the ULP candidate Luke Brown by fewer than 50 votes.

Eustace said on local radio that many irregularities took place in his constituency of East Kingstown, including

illegal voting, and contradictory voters list to agents.

Dr Gonsalves called for national unity to address developmental challenges and move forward.

“We ask Vincentians to celebrate this victory in peace and maturity. Now is the time to come together as one nation to address our developmental challenges and move forward to uplift our nation and its people,” he said. (Caribbean News Now)

New President vows to unite Argentina MAURICIO Macri has been sworn in as Argentina’s President, vowing to unite the nation and revive the economy.

The centre-right Macri took the oath of office in Congress but his inauguration was boycotted by his predecessor, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, in a row over the venue.

In his inaugural speech, Macri vowed to tackle corruption, poverty and drug trafficking.

He also pledged “team work” and an end to confrontation in politics.

Macri, 56, told Congress: “As President I want to be a citizen who can communicate with all Argentines. Politics for me is not a competition to see who’s got the bigger ego. It’s working

together for the good of the people. Today a dream is being achieved,” he said.

Late on Wednesday, Fernandez had bid farewell to supporters in an emotional speech, urging people to take to the streets if they felt betrayed by the new centre-right government.

This is the first time since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983 that a President has not attended the inauguration of a successor.

Macri triumphed in last month’s election run-off, beating Fernandez’s chosen successor, Daniel Scioli.

Macri has promised to move from a largely State-controlled economy under the

leftist Fernandez to one that is more free market-orientated, easing trade and currency controls.

He has also promised to improve relations with the U.S. In his speech in Congress he said: “We’ve got to take confrontation out of the centre of politics. With fighting no-one wins, with dialogue, everyone wins. A new time is coming, a time of dialogue, a time of teamwork.”

He said those who had voted for him wanted three goals - zero poverty, an end to drug trafficking and the unity of all Argentines.

Macri then travelled to the presidential palace to receive the sash and baton of office.

Fernandez had insisted that the handover of the symbols of office should also take place in Congress, where her party holds a majority of seats.

She argued this was a tradition established by her and her late husband and predecessor in

office, Nestor Kirchner.

Macri argued that according to presidential protocol, the handover should be held in the palace, as it was before 2003.

Local media reported that Macri’s decision was probably driven not just by tradition but

also by a concern that followers of Fernandez could disrupt the ceremony in Congress.

After Fernandez declined to attend the ceremonies, Macri’s party sought a court injunction affirming that her term ended at midnight on Wednesday.

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams

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

Editorial

The U.S. presidential election and terrorism

RECENT violent attacks in Paris, France and California, USA, which resulted in loss of lives and injuries have heightened conversations about gun violence, gun control, terrorism and responding to terrorism.

These conversations, more particularly in the USA, which is scheduled to hold presidential elections in November 2016, are giving insights into the thinking of presidential candidates, one of whom will be president and would impact global relations.

Some political pundits continue to scratch their heads as several polls show the real estate billionaire mogul turned politician Mr Donald Trump’s rise and steadiness as the leading candidate in a crowded Republican field. Among the Republican establishment Trump’s rise was initially seen as fleeting, but he is now beleaguering other contenders, giving rise to concern about him possibly being the party’s nominee and fear that his nomination will lead to a Democrat returning to the White House.

Even amidst establishment and political pundits’ concerns,the polls suggest Trump’s rise is fuelled by a sharp strain of xenophobia and fear that America may be losing its greatness. His campaign slogan is “Make America Great Again.” The crises in the Middle East such as ISIS and Syria and the U.S. response to these, global terrorism and the recent attack in San Bernardino, and his proposals for addressing them aid his appeal. While terrorism is not unique to any group (country, race, religion, etc) the fact that, coming from September 11, 2001 when the U.S. was attacked by Osama Bin Laden, it has given rise to xenophobia and what some deem as a natural fear of the unknown.

The war in Iraq, though later shown to have had nothing to do with the discredited position of the Saddam Hussein government being in possession of Weapons of Mass Destruction, has not quelled

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday December 11, 2015

Sadness, guns and bends Dear Editor I TOOK time off to read Commissioner Benn’s attempted response to my letter about the concocted, conflictual and hypocritical behaviour of Commissioners Benn, Shadick and Gunraj in their attempt to determine how GECOM should respond to Ganga’s Petition. In effect, it is their Petition, since Benn and Shadick were candidates of the PPP/C at the election which is the subject of the Petition and Ganga the PPP/C agent for that election.

Benn accuses me of “fulminations.” I would readily admit to fumigating, since that is the kind of action that is required to ensure that Benn’s concoction, conflictual behaviour and hypocrisy do not gain root and obfuscate his ulterior motive.

I previously proved that Lowenfield needed no permission to determine the nature of his response to the Petition, once he had been given permission to

respond. The response has always been determined by the advice of the attorney retained to handle the case.

Benn however continues to argue that, “The intervention on Lowenfield’s behalf at the courts remains unauthorized.” However, in his concoction he goes on to say: “In this matter, Dr Surujballys action of casting his deciding vote against the motion to have Lowenfield withdraw the application ... to quash the elections petition is most regrettable.”

Isn’t that evidence that even if Lowenfield might not have had permission in the first instance that the Commission, by a majority vote , has since given a no-objection to his action. The fact of the matter is, as was stated before, such permission was never required in the past. GECOM’s records can attest to my submission.

Benn seeks to relieve himself of his conflict of interest by his contention that: “It is self-evident that the appointments of Benn and Ms Shadick as GECOM commissioners post-dated

the fear. This fear remains and with other incidents of attack, it has become more pronounced, in spite of it being pointed out by analysts that the U.S. is not without its own home-grown terrorists, such as the Timothy McVeigh,who had planned and executed the Oklahoma bombing, and Columbine High School and Virginia Tech University shootings.

Though thankfully the world has not seen another attack on the scale of 9/11, the Paris attacks on November 13 has heightened the fear that terrorism is real and can happen anywhere. And amidst concern, driven in the instance of the Paris incident, the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday passed a bill with strong bipartisan support that would see stricter restrictions being imposed on its Visa Waiver Programme that currently welcomes about 20 million people each year.

Along with this movement by Congress, there is also concern about access to guns and the need for stricter gun-control measures. This issue continues to generate heated and concerted debates about legislative action for gun reform in some quarters and in others, a push back that guns are not the problem and it is a constitutional right to bear arms. The social moralists feel that legislation will not solve gun violence, since the problem is a reflection of a change of values, including the family structures. The presidential candidates are also weighing in, putting forward their proposals, supporting or attacking the stance of their competitors.

The continuum has seen expression of varying approaches to handling terrorism, gun control and ethnic

their presence on a list of candidates,” as if to say that the list has no life or meaning after the election. They are still eligible to be extracted to fill vacancies that might arise. Their ascension to office did not result in their removal from the list, though if extracted they will be required to demit office as commissioners. Mr Benn may well want to rethink his unfounded disposition to conflict of interest that he and his colleague find themselves in after reading the following: “The appearance of a conflict of interest is present if there is a potential for the personal interest of an individual to clash with fiduciary duties”(West’s Encyclopedia of American Law, edition2). It only takes the potential for the conflict of interest to be determined.

Benn’s conflict is manifested in his quest to have GECOM forego, according to him “in the interest of justice and public scrutiny,” the legal avenues available to it. But at the same time he seeks to relieve the Petitioner of the need to prove

to the court that his matter is worthy of a hearing.

My reference to the 2006 debacle when the AFC was fraudulently denied its Linden seat was intended to demonstrate the hypocrisy of the Benns who remained deafeningly silent at that time in the face of illegality and injustice, but now seek to jettison legitimate legal action in the interest of Justice according to Benn. The Petitioner has approached the court contesting the results on a number of grounds.

Lowenfield has exercised his legal prerogative to challenge the sufficiency of those grounds. Let’s not be ambushed by sadness, guns and bends.

I’d rather be GECOM’s spokesman than to engage in an enterprise of concoction, conflict of interest and hypocrisy.

Yours sincerely VINCENT ALEXANDER GECOM Commissioner

relations, with some considered nuanced or more extreme than the others in pronouncements and proposals. And here is where there has been a wide-cross section of attention about Trump’s pronouncements on terrorism, guns/gun control, non-support for Syria refugees entering the U.S., a database of all Muslims and a ban on all Muslims entering the U.S., which receive cheers at his rallies.

Present in the U.S. environment is a melting pot of every culture, religion, family structure, nationality, values and ethnicity around the world. That society prides itself on its immigrant culture, which contributes to its growth, development and place in the world. This and the merging of gun violence, terrorism, ethnicity and xenophobia are dilemmas being confronted, requiring careful handling to preserve the pride of place on what is deemed the Core American Values.

There is a school of thought that xenophobia is helping Islamic extremists and ISIS to feed jihadist violence. Nicolas Henin, a French journalist, who was held captive by the Islamic State, writing in the British Guardian noted that “Central to their [ISIS] world view is the belief that communities cannot live together with Muslims, and every day their antennae will be turned towards finding supporting evidence.” Though it is less than eight weeks before the first presidential primary-season vote is cast in Iowa, a day can be a lifetime in politics and a statement can build or reverse the fortune of a politician. Unmistakably, the presidential primaries and elections will be one watched and picked apart by the world.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday December 11, 2015

Flaws in the Guyana Prize for Literature Dear Editor, I WAS delighted to read about the Guyana Prize for Literature, which I found very interesting.

I also learnt that The Guyana Prize has now extended the awards to the Caribbean Awards for Literature. The Guyana Prize for Literature is the most prestigious literary award in the English-speaking Caribbean. It was inaugurated in 1987 by the late President Desmond Hoyte with the objective being to “recognise and reward outstanding work in literature by Guyanese authors at home and abroad.”

As a concerned author/ poet, I observed some flaws in the Guyana Prize Management Committee, since I was an entrant in the Guyana Prize for Literature from 1996-2006. My thesis is that the Guyana Prize judges are becoming entrants, and entrants are becoming judges.

I recently discovered that the recent Guyana Prize Awards Chairman of the Jury was Prof. Mark McWatt, who is a former winner of the Guyana Prize and Judge. In 1994, Prof Mark McWatt won the Guyana Prize in the Poetry category with his collection of poems, The Language of El Dorado. Then, in 1992, he was the Chairman of the Judges for the Guyana Prize, just two years before he entered for the prize in 1994. In 2006, Prof McWatt won the Best Book of Fiction for his novel, Suspended Sentences.

He is now chairman of the

judging panel 2015, and will be an entrant next, if I am not mistaken.

Professor Dennis Craig was the Vice-Chancellor at UG when the Guyana Prize was in progress, and he became an entrant in 1998 and won in the Best First Book of Poetry category for his collection, ‘Near the Seashore’, during that period.

He worked with the Guyana Prize Committee. It is my opinion that, like any other literary award in the world, all these former judges who became entrants for the Guyana Prize should have been disqualified.

The Guyana Prize for Literature has now become a society of friends, or an incestuous elite group winning the Prize all the time, most of whom are established professors in literature at universities abroad. In the case of the Booker Prize, the Cohen Prize, the IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, etc, the entries of these former Guyana Prize judges would have been disqualified, since they were former judges for the award and are well aware of the criteria this award is judged by; but the Guyana Prize has no such rule.

I have read the brochure for the IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, and its rules state: “A book shall not be eligible for entry for the Award if the author or translator thereof is any of the following: 1. A member of the Board of Management

2. A member of the staff of Dublin City Council 3. An officer or employee of IMPAC Ltd. 4. A member of the judging panel.

5. A parent, spouse or child of any of the foregoing.”

It is very unfortunate that the Guyana Prize for Literature Awards brochure has no such rule listed. Mr Al Creighton, who happens to be the secretary and administrator of the Guyana Prize since 1987, and a judge in many awards abroad, does nothing to have these rules included in the Guyana Prize brochure.

Why is that so?

In my opinion, a judge for a literary award is a scholar and distinguished writer in the field of literature, and should not compete with lesser writers than himself in a contest. It’s not surprising that all these overseas-based Guyanese writers who were judges and entrants for the Guyana Prize are winning the Prize all the time. It’s because they are professors and well recognised authors entering the contest with published books that have already won several literary awards abroad. So how can Guyana-based writers with an ordinary CXC- level education compete with these experts with their unpublished manuscripts?

In most cases, the judges will never read the unpublished manuscripts, but will focus on books that already

have a reputation and where there are high academic degrees behind the author’s name. In 1998 Roopnandan Singh’s novel Roll Play was short-listed in the fiction category, but did not win the award because he was competing against The Ventriloquist’s Tale by Pauline Melville, which had already won the Whit-bread Award and had been short-listed for the Orange Prize for Fiction in England in 1997. This book, which had already won a major literary award one year before entering for the Guyana Prize, should have been disqualified and Mr Singh’s book Roll Play should have won; but he did not win, because many of the judges and entrants are friends of the elite group.

One of the Guyana Prize Rules States: “No selected poems or collected poems or stories, the bulk of which has been previously published in book form outside the prescribed time, will be accepted.”

After reading through many of the winning entries of the Guyana Prize, I discovered that this rule has been violated. For example: Ruel Johnson won the Guyana Prize in 2002 with his collection of short stories, “Ariadne and Other Stories.” He won again with another collection of stories, “Fictions” in 2012. I note with a great deal of interest that Johnson included two stories from his first winning collection, those are: “Killing the Kitten” and

A new culture needed Dear Editor IN arriving at the appointment of Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards to act as Chief Justice, there seems to be a continuation of clouded role and responsibilities by both the President and the Leader of the Opposition.

The Guyana Constitution expressly states that there shall be meaningful consultation between the President and Leader of the Opposition on specified matters. This is one such instance. Meaningful consultation does not mean that the president

will present a name and the Leader of Opposition either accepts or rejects.

Meaningful consultation in essence means that the parties shall discuss and deliberate on the issues, where name (s) shall be floated by both sides, and a decision arrived at. In this case the president turned up and floated his name and the Leader of the Opposition, conscious of the issue that was to have been discussed at the meeting came ill-prepared, raising matters that are peripheral to the issue. This fiasco speaks to a lack of understanding for the instrument that guides governance.

The constitution, which guides the conduct of our political decision-makers, has been treated with disdain over the years. The 1980 constitution had within it the post of a Minority Leader, who by virtue of the role is a constitutional office within the Executive. The hatred for this constitution because it was conceptualised and developed under the administration of Forbes Burnham saw a changing of the name from Minority Leader to that of Leader of the Opposition.

The Minority Leader by spirit and intent is to work with the majority leader who is the President in the interest

of the collective and nation.

In changing the name to Leader of the Opposition, it opens for interpretation to the holder of the office that the role is primarily to oppose what the President does.

But it needs to be reinforced that through the constitution the Office of the Leader of the Opposition remains as a member of the Executive.

The role of the Leader of the Opposition/Minority Leader is to sensibly propose, support and oppose where and when necessary. This office has equal day-to-day responsibility for the administration/management of the State and the holder is sup-

“April.” He re-used the same two stories from Ariadne and Other Stories into his next winning book, “Fictions”, which makes up 30% of his book. In my opinion, his entry should have been disqualified or this Prize should have been taken back from Johnson, but it never happened. I am aware that Mr. Creighton would say Johnson won the first time with a manuscript, but that manuscript was published into a book, and two of the same stories re-appeared in his next book “Fictions,” which makes up 30% of his book that won in 2012. It is unfortunate the erudite literary critic, administrator and secretary of the Guyana Prize, Mr Al Creighton, and distinguished judges didn’t see this flaw, or they saw it and allowed it to pass because of favouritism and friendship. There are many more poetry books that have lots of old published poems that make up most of the collections, but they are still winning, all because our chair of judges are too busy or too naive and incompetent to see these flaws.

This is the only flawed literary award in the world that allows judges to become entrants and entrants to become judges, most of whom won this award four and five times and have lived most of their lives abroad. So our locally-based Guyanese writers are still struggling for a voice, or for their dying literary voices to be heard. If the Guyana Prize for Literature is ever to progress in Guyana,

then the entire committee will have to be changed completely. The Ministry of Education will have to administer the prize and not UG, because the prize has been compromised by literary hypocrites.

The prize must be in different categories and age groups.

The works of writers living abroad should be judged separately from manuscripts of writers living here.

A children’s category should be established. The prize should be called ‘The Guyana-Caribbean Prize for Literature’, and should include works from the wider Caribbean. More than one prize should be given in the various categories, and short- listed writers should be given at least US$1000. It is my sincere hope that the integrity of the prize would not be compromised, and the religious committee should play a significant role in judging and giving of the awards.

If a new ethical standard cannot be integrated by our new administration, it would be wise for the prize to be erased from our literary history. The literature submitted should be free from curse words, sexual overtures, racist remarks, etc. Many books that were given U.S. dollars for the Guyana Prize awards are books of a very vulgar and vile nature and having no literary merit.

ported by a shadow cabinet.

In that this is the spirit and intent of Executive responsibility, this role demands political maturity and conduct from the office-holder.

Note needs to also be taken of the structure of our National Assembly. The presence of a government side and opposite side, even though the Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected through a national top-up and constituency (Region/geographic) processes, rather than seating, MPs representing constituencies, regardless of which slate elected on, the polarisation continues. This nation should examine the utility of seating arrangements in the National Assembly that would allow the geographic MPs to work together in developing programmes and checking and

balancing each other in addressing their constituencies’ needs.

As Bharrat Jagdeo cries foul, Justice Cummings-Edwards must be congratulated for her contributions to public service. But Jagdeo must be reminded that he lacks the moral authority to question the appointment when he chose to discriminate against the Honourable Justice Claudette Singh.

While politics is not about one-upmanship, but about people and societal development, the instruments that guide our conduct must be used appropriately in bringing about a new culture. Our society must achieve political growth.

Yours truly, REV. GIDEON CECIL

Regards LINCOLN LEWIS

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday December 11, 2015

Bauxite glory days over

By Vanessa Braithwaite PRESIDENT David Granger in his feature address to the residents of Linden at the re-launching of the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN) yesterday said that the people should be more prudent and innovative.

Speaking to a massive audience, the President underlined the sad reality that the ‘glory days of bauxite are over’ and the people should focus on self-employment.

LEN has been established to create an availability of funding for the small man who wishes to establish or expand a business within the region.

“LEN has opened a new door for self-employment within the region, as this profession encourages one to save,” articulated President Granger.

Being cognisant of the fact that the demand for bauxite has declined and will become obsolete as synthetic materials are preferred in the manufacturing arena, the President embraced the initiative of LEN as this would garner self-employment opportunities for the residents.

“Because of the bauxite situation, Linden must not be a town of impossibilities and there is no reason for

Region 10 to be poor,” posited the President.

Behind this reasoning was the fact that Region 10 has in its possession resources that can create prosperity. Such resources include timber, an abundance of agricultural lands and beautiful touristic scenes.

In addition, the region bordering several other regions such as 3, 4, 7, 8 and 9 can be deemed well connected and advantageous.

“Linden is the belly of Guyana and is well connected, well wired. Why should you be poor?” asked the President.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX He urged Lindeners to become innovative and to think outside of the box and this would lead them to financial success. With over 30,000 residents, and over 20 000 square kilometres, Region 10 can be considered rich in human capital and this capital can be fully utilised if they be innovative and plan effectively so that Linden can become like a state. The President reasoned that Linden being equipped with its own schools, hospitals, cultural facilities, museum and other infrastructure should be very prosperous.

With the re-establishment of LEN and the first

President David Granger addressing the gathering at the re-launching of the Linden Enterprise Network micro credit can make a what is demanded from greater economic success.

President Granger advised, budgetary appropriation difference in the economic their customers.

The Pillar of Infrastruc- “Don’t look at LEN as a of $150 000 000, Linden- situation in Linden, the ers can now benefit from President implemented ture facilitates business box hand but as an econombusiness loans to realise four structures which LEN activities. Available infra- ic agreement.” If these pilstructural development will lars are firmly established, business ideas and to extend should function under.

The Pillar of Investment prompt foreign and local then commercial banks will already established small businesses that are strug- is the most important pillar as investors to consider invest- not have reason to refuse capital is the utmost necessity ment if there is infrastruc- the small man who may gling to grow.

He advised that persons in any business venture and ture to accommodate swift not meet their loan requirements. with business ideas should that is the main reason why travelling. “ L i n d e n s h o u l d b e According to President priority was given to LEN in think outside of the box by equipped with its own Granger, LEN is just a the 2015 budget. following a different path “We are going to ensure airdrome and proper roads fragment of the entire in their line of business. “If you have a fish shop, start that LEN remains viable connecting places such Linden Action Plan which selling fish and sweet potato and not starved of resources as Lethem, as this would will guarantee the elimchips instead of the regu- as Linden will become a encourage business ac- ination of poverty from lar plantain chips and you womb of entrepreneurship,” tivity,” mentioned the Linden. LEN, which was formed since 2009, has will see, your business will President Granger affirmed. President.

The Pillar of Innovanow been re-launched as The Pillar of Informabloom,” advised President tion as alluded to earlier it was experiencing finantion should be deemed marGranger. ket research as one cannot will allow the real purpose cial problems resulting establish enterprise without of LEN to be fulfilled as from the lack of governTHE PILLARS OF LEN With the conviction that proper information as to being original will reap ment funding.

Big rewards for shopping at Courts

By Shirley Thomas SHOPPING at Courts (Guyana) this Christmas could prove to be your most rewarding experience ever, so hurry and get in on it!

Over the last two months Courts has been giving away money ‘like mad’ and is continuing this trend for the remainder of December, so get busy as three more lucky customers will each receive $2M. Just shop $5,000 and over and that entitles you to coupons that could make you a winner.

December is also the month for Mabe appliances during which Courts will give away to $50,000 each in groceries, to 60 persons with winning coupons.

During October and November as well, in order

Some of the bedroom furnishings on sale at Courts this Christmas to make the home ‘look and smell like Christmas’ in another promotion, Courts gave away $90,000 worth of paint to three lucky persons, with the intention of great-

ly enhancing their holiday sprucing-up activities.

The month of October was dedicated to focusing on Whirlpool appliances.

During that month, Courts

actually gave away $2M to persons shopping Whirlpool appliances. In that promotion, two lucky women each won for themselves $2M, simply by shopping Whirl-

pool.

November was the month of its Frigidaire Shopping Spree, which saw eight lucky customers each winning $180,000 in items from various merchants around Guyana.

The theme for November was ‘Feel Like a Kid Again’ and for December it’s ‘Tradition’.

Courts Public Relations Officer Roberta Ferguson, excited about what the entity has been doing to celebrate Christmas and spread joy among shoppers, said that Christmas at Courts was started in the month of October. Large quantities of Christmas stocks were brought in and opened up to customers.

“We wanted basically to avoid that last minute rush, we adopted a new method

of starting to bring in new items and products in October so as to avoid that last minute rush,” Ferguson said.

Ever since then, the promotions are ongoing and getting bigger and better.

But the big thing for Courts at this time is its Christmas Tree light up, which in a big way stimulates public response to preparations for Christmas.

“It is our official launch for Christmas, and sets the tone and tempo for ushering in Christmas, creates a ripple effect from the public,” Ferguson said.

Shopping hours at Courts: Monday to Thursday: 7:00hrs to 18:00hrs; Friday: 7:00hrs to 19:00hrs; Saturdays 8:00hrs to 15:00hrs and Sundays: 10:00hrs to 14:00 hrs.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 11, 2015

1 dead, 4 escape as pit caves in – owner released from custody

By Svetlana Marshall in Mahdia NEGLIGENCE in the mining industry has caused the death of another miner when a pit collapsed on Thursday, killing 47-year-old Terrence Carlton Lobert, a father of three.

The pit caved in on him and five others in the vicinity of ‘Red and White Backdam,’ Mahdia, Region 8.

Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection with responsibility for Labour Simona Broomes, upon hearing of the accident rushed to the scene.

At the time she, along with a team of labour officers,was conducting checks in Mahdia and neighbouring communities.

Loraine Orford, a cook and Dianne Ferreira, who were at the scene at the time of the disaster sat quietly in a makeshift tent a short distance from the caved-in pit, but came out to speak with Minister Broomes and team upon their arrival.

Standing at the top of the mining pit looking down, Orford recalled that she was cooking when she heard a loud noise about 10:30 hrs.

“We heard the slush com-

ing and everybody was like ‘Oh My God, leh we hope that nothing ain’t happen to no body’,” she told Minister Broomes.

According to Orford, upon realising that the pit was caving in, the six men attempted to run for safety,but Lobert was trapped in the process.

“He tried to run but the pontoon was there, so maybe he got lash backwards and the mud cover him down,” she explained.

Panic filled the air, as the owner of the small mining operation Linden Stewart reportedly stood in shock as the women screamed for help.

“Terry! Terry!” one his colleagues shouted as he took a “jetting hose” spreading the area to locate him but to no avail. In a desperate attempt to save the life of the miner who had only started working on the site four months ago, one of the miners rushed over to another mining site for an excavator.

“An excavator operating at another mining site had to come and get him out. They had to dig up the area but they got he out,” she recalled.

ceived minor injuries during the accident. According to the two women, the Mahdia Police Station and wardens were immediately informed.

Lobert was subsequently taken to the Mahdia Hospital where he was pronounced Dead on Arrival. Stewart was immediately taken into custody, but was subsequently released.

Minister Broomes, who is well experienced in the gold-mining industry having been a miner, contends that based on her initial investigation, negligence was a major contributing factor to the mishap.

“This is a lot of negligence. This is a lot, a lot of negligence… they didn’t have enough space to work,” she said while looking down at the pit.

“Once you are working in a land like this you have to do major preparations. Back sand don’t hold nothing,” she lamented. The minister further pointed out that the area, which has mainly “back sand,” was worked already and is in the process of being reworked. “Because it is a worked-out area, anything could have triggered it because the sand is very, very loose… it didn’t even have to rain,” Minister Broomes said,

Spotlight for Dragnet LET’s talk a bit about Operation Dragnet, as it seems to be the star of the Christmas season. As the governDead: Terrence Lobert aks Terry

ment continues to vouch for their (and Ramotar’s)

“Workers’ safety has to come first then the money.

You cannot put money in front of workers,” she said sternly.Experienced miners who were present admitted that the minister’s observations were on point, adding that the miners were operating in a high-risk environment.

Lobert was described as a very kind-hearted individual by his colleagues. He leaves to mourn his wife and three daughters.

“You can call him about 50 times and ask him to go to the market and with a smile on his face he would go,” one of his colleagues said as she fought the tears from rolling down her face.

duller every day. The internet was ripe with discussion

$750M awarded in contracts

that efforts should have at least been made to bring her son

A W H O P P I N G $785,000,000 in contracts was given the green light earlier this week, when Cabinet met to discuss Guyana’s developmental agenda.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon yesterday told members of the media, at a post Cabinet press briefing that Cabinet gave its no-objection earlier in the week to certain contracts within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and the Ministry of Educa-

MINOR INJURIES The other miners re-

tion. These were valued at $586,247,000.

According to the minister, this was for the project-execution phase of the water supply and sanitation improvement programme of the Guyana Water Incorporated. He noted that this is for the consultants to do the work under that contract. The contract was awarded to Hydroplan Ingenieur-Gesellschaft mbH - a German-based company, in association with E & A Con-

sultant Incorporated.

In addition, Harmon revealed that Cabinet referred several contracts to a sub-committee of Cabinet for public infrastructure, when it became clear to Cabinet that some of the award of these contracts did not seem to have actually the sort of due diligence that was required.

On that basis, the contracts were referred to the sub-committee for that committee to report on its findings

to Cabinet.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) too benefited from the no-objection of Cabinet, for which the sum of $34M was awarded for the construction of stables for the Mounted Branch of the Police Force.

Cabinet also gave its no-objection for the procurement of uniform items for the Police Force and that contract was awarded to Marva Flare Caribbean Limited.

$1M for slain constable’s family IN showing respect and appreciation for the invaluable service provided to the people of Guyana by slain Police Constable Antonio Dawson, the government will be awarding his mother and children the sum of $1M. Minister of State Joseph Harmon yesterday made the disclosure at a post-Cabinet press briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency.

According to the minister, Cabinet at its most recent meeting had approved payment of the sum after extensive deliberation.

He noted that Cabinet recognised that in circumstances

where persons in the Disciplined Services die in the line of duty, a stronger regime of measures must be put in place to take care of their families.

He further said that provision for the payment of $1M in such cases follows a Cabinet decision that was made in 2002. However, Cabinet has also given Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan the responsibility of revising the arrangement, since the regular provisions of the National Insurance Scheme and the Dependants Pension Fund would not cover some of the situations in which police ranks die.

Twenty-eight-year-old

Police Constable Antonio Dawson who was attached to the Impact Base at Brickdam died on September 18 at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) while undergoing surgery to save his life.

The rank was stabbed several times about the body at Houston, East Bank Demerara in the vicinity of the Gafoors Complex while attempting to arrest a man who later stabbed himself to the chest and slashed his throat.

According to reports, ranks on a marine patrol in the Demerara River, acting on information received, went to the Houston Fishing Wharf, EBD, where they saw a man

acting in a suspicious manner.

The ranks approached him and during an attempt to conduct a search, the man forcibly resisted and assaulted one of the police ranks. He walked away and proceeded to an area in the vicinity of the Gafoors Complex where he was approached by ranks on a mobile police patrol that had responded to give assistance.

During efforts to arrest him, the man pulled out a knife and stabbed Constable Dawson. Police say that varying quantities of cocaine, marijuana and ecstasy were found in the suspect’s pants pockets.

(Ravin Singh)

joint services brainchild, hopes for the bandits get a bit following the killing of two bandits in South Ruimveldt on Wednesday. Funny contrast though- while many praised the efforts, others condemned their mode of dress. Don’t kill the messenger but “slippers and jeans with no safety gear” was quoted by some as being the mode of dress of the good guys. If that’s true, Dragnet, then shame on you. What’s the point of all the pomp and ceremony if you can’t dress the part?

HUMAN RIGHTS OR WRONGS? A popular discussion also stemmed from the killing of the bandits which evoked a lengthy blog post from activist Mark Jacobs, in which he condemned the continued killing of citizens by police in such circumstances. The mother of one of the slain bandits when interviewed, had also said in alive. In his post, Jacobs spared no detail in listing past cases where bandits were shot and killed in a similar manner all in the name of crime-fighting. Now, while the issue of whether or not the bandits retaliated in gunfire is all still based on hearsay and eyewitnesses, Jacobs deserves a pat on the back for his points raised. His post garnered much discussion and people seemed to sway both ways- some believe they should be killed once they’re guilty, while others agree that human life should be spared and that the police seem trigger happy. As all this developed, both the opposition and the government continued to share lengthy statements to echo their support of citizens’ human rights in honour of UN Human Rights Day… Something wrong.

BLAME GAME CONTINUES Of course, our politics wouldn’t be the gameshow it was without the ever present blame game between the government and the opposition. Following news of the Government’s move to repossess land leased to one of Jagdeo’s close friends (what’s new?), many have claimed that such case is proof of the blatant corruption carried out by the PPP administration. Of course, the PPP swiftly posted a response stating that the lease was revoked since 2009. Meanwhile, on the PPP side of things, the party continues to call out members of “the other side” for greed and corruption by spilling news targeted at the AFC. The “the most corrupt” post-independence government in Guyana, according to Ramkarran the parties had a field day with their finger pointing and of course, their supporters were gleefully riled up by this. Seems like each side is bringing out their best moves. Let the games continue!

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 11, 2015

Guyanese wins lawsuit against Delta

A GUYANESE man, Roger Levans, has won a lawsuit filed against Delta Airlines after cocaine was found in his suitcase, New York Daily News reports.

A Brooklyn jury ordered Delta Airlines to pay US$759,000 in damages to Levans, a security guard who was arrested after a nefarious baggage handler planted cocaine in his suitcase.

“I must give praise and thanks to God!” a beaming Levans said outside Brooklyn Federal Court yesterday, after the jury deliberated only two hours and found the airline was negligent.

When he was stopped in the John F Kennedy Airport back in January 2011 after a Delta flight from Guyana, Levans told Customs

officers he was bringing back “cooked rabbit.” He was arrested after officers found three bricks of cocaine alongside the food in his suitcase.

Levans spent one day in jail and was sacked from his job at Yankee Stadium.

But while Levans was free on bail, the Feds determined that his bag was indeed tampered with after he had checked his luggage.

BAGGAGE HANDLER A corrupt baggage handler apparently tied a ribbon to the suitcase containing the illicit drugs so it would be recognised by an accomplice in New York City, according to court papers.

Delta’s lawyer argued that the airline was not responsible for whoever put

the drugs in Levan’s bag.

Levans’ security guard license was eventually restored, but he did not get back his gig at Yankee Stadium. Instead, his employer assigned him to a lower-paying post at a construction site.

“In all my life, I never had a handcuff on my wrist or spent a day in jail until this happened,” Levans said. “It was an ordeal.”

The food he was bringing back to his family was seized and never returned.

“The rabbit got away,” he said.

Delta’s lawyer Michael Crowley had argued to the jury that the airline was not responsible for whoever put the drugs in Levans’ bag. He said the airline will appeal the verdict.

Roger Levans (centre) with lawyers Bennitta Joseph (l) and Caitlin McNaughton

“When you go on a plane, passengers play by the rules to ensure it is

safe, but Delta was trying to say it didn’t have to play by the rules,” said

Levans’ lawyer Caitlin McNaughton. (NY Daily News)

23 bidders for Harbour Bridge project THE Ministry of Public Infrastructure has received fresh Expressions of Interest from local and foreign consultants with regard to the feasibility study and

design for a new bridge across the Demerara River.

Several European, Chinese and CARICOM region consultants were among the 23 bidders who submitted

tenders this week at the National Procurement and Tender Administration (NPTA) at its headquarters, Urquhart Street, Georgetown.

This study, not exceed-

ing 36 weeks, will seek to enhance the old pre-feasibility proposals, which lacked several components and was described by the current administration as having incomplete documentation.

The present Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) structure crosses the Demerara River four miles (6.4 km) south of Georgetown from Peter’s Hall, East Bank Demerara (EBD) to Schoonord, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

It is a vital link between the EBD and Georgetown, especially in light of the many housing developments.

The new project framework, as set out by the ministry in its request for Expressions of Interest will examine the three possible sites for the new bridge, namely Houston, EBD to Versailles

WBD or New Hope EBD to Laurentia Catherina, WBD or a site close to the existing bridge structure.

In keeping with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s mandate, any proposed bridge design will include a navigational clearance of 100 meters wide with navigational aids, an air draft of 50 meters of vertical clearance, adequate marine collision protection at navigating channels, and an estimated length of 2,250 meters.

The new study is expected to include an economic analysis detailing external costs and benefits, a financial analysis that addresses the concerns of how the project will be financed and a detailed Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA).

The existing two-lane floating bridge was constructed in 1978 by the UK firm Thomas Storey Engineers Limited. It had an initial life of 20 years.

From 1995 to 1998 the bridge underwent major rehabilitation by the Damien Ship Yards of the Netherlands at a cost of US$9 million and was given an extended life of 15 years, from 1995.

The Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) is responsible for the management and collection of tolls. The average annual revenue collection is approximately US$1.9 million. At present the corporation carries out intensive annual maintenance and element replacement activities on the bridge structure.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 11, 2015

All not well in Buxton backdam

By Shauna Jemmott

RESIDENTS in the neglected area of Friendship/Buxton backdam are crying out that for too long their human rights have been violated and they have been left to believe their cries and entreaties are not taken seriously.

Help is more than a hill away for those living in the dungeons of a place once called “The Gully,” from where strangers and non-supporters of an imported prison-escape gang were once prohibited.

The Guyana Chronicle visited and spoke with a few men – young and middle-aged - within the community Tuesday, and their main concern was that they were being treated less than Guyanese, though the days are over when they were receiving the brunt of the bestial handling by other criminals and the Joint Services, in a hostile society to which they had fallen victim.

In an emotional plea, Courtney McFarlane told this newspaper that the backdam area of Friendship had been totally neglected. “We’re being excluded from the past government, on to now. We would like to know when things will go down for us in terms of new opportunities.”

Visibly frustrated, the man stated, “We need a proper playground at the back here.

We need help. There is so much we need. We need some stuff man! We need a whole lot of things!”

He was surrounded by just four other men, ages ranging from the early 40s to the teens, and as he pointed to the makeshift football ground, a single lot, which they have made into a recreation ground, he pointed out, “This place belong to people who abandoned their lands”.

In Friendship backdam, scenes of infrastructural rags and missing vitality are evident with its citizens scattered in various yards, and under a rugged make-shift shed, a scene that could parallel an abandoned refugee zone where war once raged .

Lecturer at Arizona State University, USA, and political activist David Hinds, told the Guyana Chronicle that the ‘backdam’ sections of Friendship/Buxton were in deep crises, being denied their human rights to education, work and leisure and he has called on government and human rights activists to empower the impoverished.

Hinds said certain rights of citizens had been denied because of a criminal stain which has been left there by criminals, strangers to the area,

who moved in and took up residence after the infamous jail break in 2002, when five notorious criminals broke free.

“Often when we talk about human rights we talk about these high-flung things – denial of people of the right to free speech and all those things – poor people are being denied their human right to work,[their] human right to leisure,[their] human right to education. And I think this Human Rights Day is a good time to put a lot of emphasis on the empowerment of the least among us, the empower-

rights within the context of the ordinary people, the poor people, and to talk about their human rights. Here we talk about the good life for all Guyanese and the people who need that good life the most are the people at the back of Buxton, or at the back of Plaisance, or Ann’s Grove, or Queenstown on the Essequibo Coast, or Fyrish on the Corentyne.”

When a community of hundreds of people have no place to host sporting activities, no school, and have been violently robbed of its main source of income, its living

A young man reads about Baby Arthur in the Guyana Chronicle under a lamp post last evening (Delano Williams photo)

Women of all ages hang out in a rugged shed

This is one of houses considered ‘in good condition’ in the backdam of Friendship, East Coast Demerara

ment of the poor.”

A walk into Friendship/ Buxton beyond the old train line road transfers one into a world which reveals poverty, but Hinds believes that the neglected residents should have a major share of the good life Guyana talks about.

“When you go down to Buxton backdam side, what you’re seeing is really poverty, intense poverty. When we think about human rights now we have to think about human

becomes a state of emergency.

A VIOLATION “It’s a real human rights violation that in this 21st century, young people still have to be kicking ball in a small space in a private yard; that we don’t have a playground at the back there for those young poor people to engage in sports. We don’t know who could be the next Carl Hooper, we don’t know who could be the next Brian Lara coming out from

the back there if we give them the facilities.

“How about education? It is time that we put one of the schools at the back there. All the schools are at the front of the village and none is at the back of the village. This has always been like that. It’s about giving them opportunity for education, opportunity to play sports and leisure, opportunities to earn a living and also the revitalisation of agriculture.”

Buxton was known for high production in agriculture,

which had been disrupted over the years after the last government’s security operations to flush out dangerous criminals who were allegedly hiding out there. Their farms were bulldozed, resulting in major economic disturbances, and no action was taken for the villagers to be recompensed for their massive losses.

“It is a human rights issue … poor people in African villages, East Indian villages, Amerindian villages that we see their plight as a human right,” Hinds said.

DESERVE ATTENTION Meanwhile, social activist Vincent Alexander said despite ugly events within the community in the past, residents of Friendship/Buxton are Guyanese and deserve attention, as government should be responsive to all Guyanese.

“At the end of the day they are citizens of this country and they deserve the rights of attention. Attention is given by various sectors of the society and I rather suspect that the elements of the civil society sector may be those who have more than anyone else, stigmatised them and therefore may be unresponsive to them, but certainly the government should be responsive to all Guyanese in all circumstances, in reaching out to them and giving them assistance.”

Residents themselves should also “be cognisant of the fact that they are living in a very competitive environment and that whilst the government has an obligation to reach out to them, that they also have a responsibility to themselves to “shout out” at the relevant arms of government in whatever they wish to do,” he stated.

He said though government officials may be hard to reach, the “backdam” villagers should have a list of proposed

ideas as to “what is it that you want some assistance with” as they call on officials.

Not only should they not depend totally on hand-outs from government, but should seek empowerment to rise out of the slums and be included in Guyana’s development and in enjoying the good enjoyed by wider society. Residents of Friendship/Buxton backdam should form community development groups and approach government for the help they need.

“What government should be doing is assisting people in empowerment and not just merely giving them handouts for subsistence purposes… they should of their own accord have some kind of formation so that when they interact with the government, they have a clear vision of what is it they want and a vision which entails empowerment and self-development, rather than merely getting handouts from government,” Alexander advised.

After decades of being labelled as one of the worst places in Guyana and [having] the door of inclusion into the society slammed in their faces, Buxton/Friendship men and youths will not give up this time, until they are recognised as true citizens of Guyana.

Residents believe it is time for the labels of notoriety to be torn away from the geographic space and government, donors and developers to walk home to youths and old alike and make them feel at home, while they still abide at the only place they know as home.

Their needs far outweigh their faults, and as a people struggling to rise out of a Lazarus condition, they believe it is possible for them too to be liberated from poverty.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 11, 2015

Guyana greening from bottom, up GUYANA’S push towards a “green economy” is being pursued from a “bottom-up” approach, Minister of Governance Raphael Trotman told the UN Climate Change conference in Paris Tuesday.

“In the context of our pursuit of a green economy, our country has embarked on a pilot initiative to create Guyana’s first Green Town (Bartica). We hope, with adequate support, to transfer lessons learned to other urban centres in a truly bottom-up, and country-driven approach to green low emission development,” Trotman said in an address at Le Bourget conference centre on the outskirts of Paris where the talks are being held to secure a legally-binding climate agreement by the end of the week.

Bartica will be declared a town mid next year, and the community is involved in crafting a green development plan that is expected to be revealed by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure soon.

President David Granger has said that it could be

possible to power all of the five other new towns touted, using clean energy sources.

In pursuit of the green economy, Trotman said the country is working to develop new sources of renewable energy, including hydropower.

Trotman told the Paris summit that Guyana is committed to the battle against climate change.

“Our abundant rainforests have, over the years, been conserved and sustainably managed. We are proud to say that we have among the lowest deforestation rates and highest forest carbon storage per capita in the world,” he stated.

Trotman noted that in 2009, in a pioneering partnership with the Kingdom of Norway, Guyana formulated and commenced implementation of a low carbon development strategy and a REDD Plus initiative. The REDD scheme is designed to reward countries which keep their rainforests standing. “… not only is REDD Plus the most cost effective mitigation tool, but it is

Ambassador George Tallbot and Minister of Governance Raphael Trotman with other members of the Guyana delegation at the UN Climate Summit in Paris

also impossible to achieve a target of 1.5 or even 2 degrees without the contribution of the world’s forests.

We join with others in urging that the 2015 Agreement

include a REDD Plus mechanism and a provision for the resources to implement it.”

CONCERN Trotman said Guyana was extremely concerned at the low level of ambition in emission-reduction targets necessary to stabilise global emissions. Among the lowest emitters in the world, Guyana developed and submitted an iNDC ahead of the October 1 deadline.

“We are disappointed that aggregate targets and actions pledged in iNDCs still take us to almost 3 degrees warming. This is unacceptable, as it will spell disaster for Small Island and coastal low-lying developing states like Guy-

ana, where most of our population and infrastructure exist at or below sea level. The Paris Agreement must serve to protect us.”

In this regard, he said Guyana was joining with the many other vulnerable countries in calling for commitments for medium and long-term emission-reduction pathways that are consistent with a 1.5 degree goal.

Trotman also used his speech to stress the need for mitigation measures.

“Given the current low level of mitigation ambition and the severe impacts that face vulnerable countries in the medium and long term, we cannot over-emphasise the importance of adaptation

as a key element in the new agreement, with adequate resource provisions to support implementation of national adaptation actions. Our support includes a mechanism for loss and damage in the new agreement.”

He said the special vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) be explicitly recognised in the context of adaptation support; that such support be commensurate with our growing needs and be provided in a form that recognises the capacity constraints of SIDS. Trotman urged developed countries to continue to take the lead in providing scaled up, sustainable, new, additional and predictable climate finance to developing countries, using the 2009 pledge of US$100 billion per year as a floor.

He said it was also imperative to recognise that both SIDS and Least Developed Countries face particular capacity constraints in accessing financial resources.

As such, he said the Paris agreement must include a commitment to improve access, including direct access, for these countries.

“Let us leave Paris with an ambitious, balanced, equitable legally-binding agreement that provides for the poor and the wealthy as equally as it provides for the strong and the vulnerable among us… let us give Paris the joyful gift of hope, and to the people of the world, the gift of a healthy and fruitful earth.”

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With every purchase of $5,000 you spend (VAT-inclusive) during the month of December, you receive a coupon, which entitles you to win an Amazon FIRE Tablet, equipped with T Display; Wifi and 1.3 GhZ; two cameras and 8GB storage.

Additionally, two persons will win one year’s supply of clothing, shoes and accessories for one full year.

Customers spending $30,000 and over will get a free Selfie Stick. Buy any three

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The Amazon Fire Tablet up for grabs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 11, 2015

GTT offering ‘better’ Christmas deals

HAVING TROUBLE deciding on a really good Christmas gift for a valued friend or loved one?

Well, it is said that “good things come in small packages,” And if you’re adding value to size, then make GTT’s top-of-theline cellular phones your

gift of choice.

For the Christmas season, GTT has a range of name brand phones, coming to you with FREE data and guaranteed to make you or your loved one feel pampered. All prices have slashed for the holidays.

Brands include: IP-

hone 6 Plus for $199,999 plus one month free data; Samsung Galaxy S6 for $139,999; and Samsung Galaxy S5 for $89,999, also with one month free data.

Select also from among IPhones from $169,999 to $199,999 with FREE data.

Also available for the

Christmas holidays are: BLU Studio G which comes Free with the purchase of six months data for just $17,999.

Meanwhile, GTT is expecting a shipment of Alcatel Pixie by this weekend, according to a sales official at the Gift-

land Mall. Simply buy six months data for $17,999 and get the phone free.

Bargains available while stocks last.

LEN lending...

From page 2

A section of the gathering at the re-launch of the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN), at its headquarters, Republic Avenue, Mackenzie, Linden (Samuel Maughn photo)

and has also been able to present the first set of loan awards to persons within the community for the investment into new or existing businesses. “ I cannot stop thanking the government, the President and the Minister of Finance, the Honorable Winston Jordon for his speedy response to our request since we have received funding in just a couple of months,” affirmed Miss Patterson. With this funding, massive repairs were conducted on the LEN building, all AC’s were replaced for the 30 tenants who share the building, all debts were paid off and staffs are now guaranteed their monthly salaries.

Minister of Business Dominique Gaskin alluded to the fact that the need for financial investment was a universal one and was needed more in Linden where there was a high unemployment rate.

“It is expected that this $1,000, 000 will kick start serious business activity within the town and the success of the programme depended on how well the loans would be utilised by the recipients,” posited the Minister. He added that the

recipients should not be complacent as default on repayment would hinder continuous progress.

“If Mary gets she should pay back so that Tom and Harry could get,” advised the Minister, who is hoping that young people and women take advantage of this loan opportunity as women were less likely to stay in abusive relationships if they could sustain themselves.

GOOD VENTURE Wayne Collins who was awarded a loan of $500, 000 thinks that LEN is involved in a very good venture and thanked the CEO and government for making the loans possible.

“I have a small grocery business and so I will be able to extend it and I am very grateful for this,” Collins said.

Shondell Gill who has a small salon also received a loan of $500,000 that will be used to purchase equipment to expand her services so as to further meet the needs of her customers.

Ken Charles was not only awarded a loan of $1,000, 000 but was fortunate to receive 13 weeks of training in entrepreneurship

and business management organised by LEN. “I feel like a king with this million dollar because I will be able to effectively invest it into my business and the training equipped me with the knowledge to do so.” “With the low interest rate, LEN has saved my chicken business and my agricultural business will materialise,” he said happily.

The new government was praised by the people of Linden for their interest in the town; that is especially evident is projects such as these. Regional Chairman Renis Morian made mention of the fact that Region 10 was now part of the developmental stream of Guyana.

President Granger vowed to continue supplying LEN with adequate funding as he aimed to alleviate poverty. In attendance were President Granger, Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin, Board Members, the Regional Chairman, Regional Vice Chairman, CEO of LUSCSI, members of the religious community, stake holders, awardees of loans and scores of civilians.

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52 bicycles for St Ignatius students istry is set to roll out a series of micro projects and livelihood improvement initiatives shortly. In addition

First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger and Minister of Social Cohesion, Amna Ally stand among the students of St. Ignatius Secondary School as they display their new bikes

AS PART of President David Granger’s ‘Three Bs’ (Boats, Buses, and Bicycles) initiative, Minister of Social Cohesion, Amna Ally on Thursday presented 52 bicycles to the students of the St. Ignatius Secondary School in an effort to ensure transportation difficulties do not stand in the way of school attendance. The handing over ceremony was held at the Indigenous Peoples Conference Hall in Lethem, Region Nine.

The issue of school attendance and punctuality was raised with Minister Ally during her trip to the region in October. A former professional educator, the minister is committed to ensuring that systems are in place to allow equal access to education for all of Guyana’s children, regardless of their geographic location. “Education is a fundamental requirement to develop human capital and achieving a socially cohesive society. When persons are excluded from acquiring formal education and skills training, they are immediately placed at a disadvantage and cannot contribute

to achieving an acceptable standard of living,” Minister Ally said.

She informed that her ministry received significant support from the business community to acquire the bicycles for students to get to and from school, particularly those travelling from the farthest distances. The Minister said that this is not merely a hand out; noting that the Government holds firmly to the view that by providing these bicycles, the children of the region will be able to acquire that which is necessary for them to make a difference in their lives.

“This is about taking steps to foster empowerment and foster cohesion…I am going to be listening out for success stories about school attendance, punctuality and performance. This would give us a sense of how this project is working and we would know to what extent it could be expanded here and in other communities,” Minister Ally said.

On the celebration of his 70th birthday, President Granger made an appeal for transportation to assist

students, particularly from hinterland and riverine communities, to get to school.

Since then, the response from corporate citizens has been overwhelming. The first school boat was donated

by GAICO Construction and General Services Incorporated and the second from Alfro Alphonso from Region Two. CGX Energy donated the third for students in the Upper Pomeroon and earlier this week, Aurora Gold /Guyana Goldfields donated the fourth boat for the children of Moraikobai, Region Five.

Minister Ally said that one of President Granger’s main goals is to ensure that children in outlying communities are not marginalised in any way. She also spoke of the 10-point plan for the development of hinterland communities noting that her Ministry is determined to make sterling contributions to ensure that the plan is effectively implemented. The plan focuses on hinterland poverty reduction, energy and development, employment, youth development, tourism, and education.

In this regard, the Min-

Sugar target in sight WITH its second crop production tallying 143,184 tonnes as of Thursday, and a year-to-date total of 224,327 tonnes, the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is more than likely to achieve its 2015 target within the next few days.

The corporation had set its target at 227,443 tonnes and is just over 3,000 tonnes away from achieving it. The last time the corporation achieved a second crop target was in 2004.

Chief Executive Officer Errol Hanoman had earlier told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that GuySuCo could likely surpass its target as well by at least 6,000 tonnes. With three estates operating, there is the likelihood of this occurring.

Two Berbice estates, Albion and Rosehall, and Enmore are expected to continue operations until December 21.

The new crop is expected to begin by the end of January, 2016, Hanoman told

GINA. During the out-ofcrop period, maintenance will be done on all the estates.

CONCILIATION MEETING Meanwhile, the second conciliation meeting with GuySuCo, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) and the Department of Labour, in the Ministry of Social Protection, is set to take place tomorrow.

Following earlier meetings between the union and the sugar company on the Annual Production Incentive (API), the union had called out the workers on strike in October after rejecting the company’s offer of 2.7 days.

The union again encouraged the workers to down tools in late November, and after the union had called off the strike, talks had resumed but ended in deadlock, hence the move to conciliation.

It was pointed out recently by Hanoman that were it not for the previous three-

day strike in October, and the man-days lost, the set production target would have been achieved since the end of November, according to GuySuCo’s calculations.

LESS SUGAR The corporation is currently producing 100,000 tonnes less sugar than it was making 13 years ago. Its performance from 2002 to 2014 is as follows: 2002 - 331,052 tonnes; 2003- 302,379 tonnes; 2004- 325,317 tonnes; 2005 - 246,071 tonnes; 2006-259,549 tonnes; 2007- 266,482 tonnes; 2008226, 267 tonnes; 2009 -233,736 tonnes; 2010220,818 tonnes; 2011- 236, 505 tonnes; 2012- 218,068 tonnes; 2013- 186,745 tonnes and 2014 - 216,350 tonnes.

The removal of preferential prices which African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries like Guyana enjoyed now dictates that GuySuCo be more efficient to remain competitive.

to the bicycles, the Minister and First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger also distributed a large quantity of toys to

the younger children and two bolts of fabric to the Lethem Women’s Group.

(Ministry of the Presidency)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 11, 2015

Grip tightens on drug crimes

MINISTER of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan and U.S. Ambassador Perry Holloway yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the operation of a vetted counter-narcotic investigative unit programme.

The signing took place at the minister’s office on Brickdam.

Minister Ramjattan signed on behalf of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and the Ambassador on behalf of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

The mission of the Vetted Unit Programme of the Drug Enforcement Administration of the U.S. is to train, equip and provide necessary assistance to partner countries, so that specialised units in those countries can meet certain mutually-determined standards and can increase capacity in integrity, professionalism, and competence in fighting drug crimes.

This programme is intended to ensure better investigations and interdictions, and to prosecute and dismantle high-value targets in narco-trafficking networks.

Members of Guyana’s law enforcement sector, who will participate in this Vetted Unit Programme will have to pass certain

background checks, plus tests as to medical and psychological fitness for duty, polygraph testing and random drug testing.

The DEA will be responsible for all expenses for training, whether this be local or international.

The MoU is to remain in force for a period of five years.

The Minister of Public Security also took the opportunity to request assistance from the USA concerning a high-powered portable container scanner to examine the contents of containers at various wharves in Georgetown.

U.S. Deputy Head of Mission Bryan Hunt informed that the request is actively being looked into and their experts in the U.S. are presently engaged in identifying costs and maintenance arrangements for such a crime-fighting asset.

What was also good news for the Public Security Minister was the procuring by the U.S. Government of equipment for virtual Police training by trainers in the U.S. through tele-conferencing. The equipment will be stationed at the Police Academy.

This has now come to fruition because of the provision of higher-speed Internet

Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan and U.S. Ambassador Perry Holloway sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the presence of U.S. Deputy Head of Mission Bryan Hunt and CANU Head James Singh services provided by the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (G T & T) to the Academy.

According to a release, there will now be more extensive and intensive training of officers and ranks in Guyana without the expense of having to bring to Guyana U.S. trainers, or hav-

ing to send to the U.S. the Guyanese trainees.

In attendance at the signing ceremony was Head of Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) James Singh.

Minister Ramjattan thanked both the Ambassador and the Deputy Head of Mission for the U.S.’s support.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 11, 2015

LGE will help Task Force realise goals

By Rabindra Rooplall

WITH the outcome of Local Government Elections (LGE) next year, the National Task Force Commission (NTFC) will be able to supervise checks and balances needed for the development of government’s Vision 20/20 plan which encompasses all 10 regions of Guyana.

This was disclosed by Chairman of the NTFC, Major General (rtd) Joseph Singh on Wednesday during a press conference at the Public Infrastructure Ministry boardroom.

He said the NTFC earlier this week submitted the draft restoration plan for phase one under “Project Restore Guyana” to subject Minister David Patterson.

LGE will empower neighbourhoods, communities, villages and regions, Singh said, and policy will facilitate the

NTFC Chairman Major General (rtd) Joseph Singh implementation of wise and pragmatic solutions to various issues that are challenging the NTFC so that systems are adhered

to and there is no anarchy.

“We are dealing with a holistic framework and within there are components being addressed by the six committees, but it all comes together when these recommendations are submitted for the attention of our decision-makers for a resource allocation and the actual implementation is a function of leadership, commitment, of patriotism, of volunteerism, of addressing these matters at a school level, at the churches, at the social organisations, no one should be disinterested or delinked from this process, so we are asking for a total national effort,” the NTFC Chairman emphasised.

He said all organisations should work towards seeing a different Guyana which is prosperous,

When nature calls APPEARING before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan yesterday was 20-yearold Marvin Agard and Selwayne Gill, a 40-year-old vagrant, accused of stealing mats from Kissoon’s Furniture Outlet on Main Street.

According to the charge, the men allegedly broke into the outlet over the last weekend and stole three small floor mats valued $2,000 along with a $6,000 large mat, the property of Hemraj Kissoon.

Gill accepted the charge while Agard of Queen Street, South Cummingburg denied it and his lawyer Mr Paul Funga-fat explained that his client went to the outlet, which was an empty lot, because ‘nature called.’ He was caught at the wrong place, at the wrong time.

Nevertheless, according to the prosecution facts, a security guard was preforming checks at the store when he observed the two men with goods in their hands and raised an alarm. The duo was arrested and charged. The men allegedly gained entry into the outlet after the tarpaulin was cut. It cost its owner $45,000 to repair.

Gill said that on the day in question he was at the outlet picking up bottles when he found a bag with the mats inside.

Agard, he stressed, had no part in the commission of the crime.

The Chief Magistrate granted Agard bail to the tune of $10,000 and fined Gill $20,000 or in default four weeks’ imprisonment.

Rape accused freed RAPE accused Christopher Gangaram was yesterday freed by a jury’s unanimous verdict of not guilty at the Demerara Assizes.

Presiding judge Madam Roxane George told the 22-year old Gangaram: “You are free to go – the jury has found you not guilty.”

Gangaram, defended by Attorney-at-law Michael Somersall, had pleaded not guilty to a charge of having raped his cousin between March 1 and March 21, 2014 on the East Coast, Demerara.

The prosecution, in its closing address had asked the jury to return a verdict in accordance with the evidence led and the oath they had taken.

By their verdict, the jury either believed the story as told by the accused or they were in doubt.

Even as the accused was leaving the dock after being discharged, the judge thanked the jury for their services and wished them and all present a happy holiday season.

cohesive and safe in all respects.

“Young people can see their aspirations being fulfilled, discovering their true potential.”

The commission head-

ed by Singh includes Fredrick Flatts, Gordon Gilkes, Geoffrey Bourne, Damian Fernandez, Alex Graham and Dr Sewnauth Punalall.

An initial $36 M has been budgeted for an

administrative team to oversee this three-phase project that could see some fruits in time for the nation’s 50th Independence anniversary celebrations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 11, 2015

Benzema banned by France over blackmail case REAL Madrid striker Karim Benzema has been suspended indefinitely from the France team because of the blackmail case he is embroiled in, the president of the national football federation (FFF) said on Thursday.

Benzema was put under formal investigation by a French judge last month in connection with an alleged attempt to blackmail international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex video.

“I have decided, it’s a decision from the president of the French federation and not from the executive committee or the ethics committee, that Karim Benzema cannot play for

France until the situation evolves,” Noel Le Graet told a news conference.

Le Graet was not specific but his ruling could mean the player cannot be called up by the national team until he is convicted or cleared of the alleged offence.

Similar cases in France have dragged on for months and there is no guarantee this investigation will be completed before the country hosts Euro 2016 in June.

“As long as the judicial system has not decided that everything that has been published on Benzema is excessive, the federation will not change its mind,” Le Graet.

“I urge the judicial sys-

tem to speed up the process so those two boys can be together in front of the judge, and also at the French federation, so the sanction can be final.”

Benzema has denied any wrongdoing although he has been banned from contacting anyone linked to the investigation including Olympique Lyonnais forward Valbuena.

Le Graet hinted if that sanction was lifted Benzema could possibly be called up again.

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema

NEW ELEMENT “It would be an interesting development,” he said. “If there is a new element, the situation will be analysed by the ethics

committee.”

The scandal has been in the public domain since details of the investigation, as well as the transcript of Benzema’s hearing with a judge, was leaked by the French media.

“The French federation cannot turn a blind eye to the wire taps that have been published,” said Le Graet.

The football federation became a plaintiff in the case after Valbuena said in an interview with Le Monde that he was disappointed with his team mate.

Prime Minister Manuel Valls said last week that Benzema should not play for France before he is cleared.

Scorpions, Jaguars feature in key fifth-round match ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – Resurgent Jamaica Scorpions and leaders Guyana Jaguars meet for a historic, key clash in the fifth round of the WICB Professional Cricket League Regional 4-Day Tournament, starting today.

Matches between the Scorpions and the Jaguars over the years have been very competitive – and a similar thing can be expected from this contest at Sabina Park, where both teams have a clear intent to win and make a big push for the title before the long break for Christmas,

New Year’s and the NAGICO Super50.

The match will also hold historical significance, as Jacqueline Williams will become the first female umpire to ever officiate in the Regional 4-Day Tournament.

Williams from the western Jamaica community of Ashton in the parish of Westmoreland will stand in the middle with international umpire Peter Nero.

She has just returned from Thailand, where she was a member of the panel of match officials for the

ICC Women’s World Twenty20 qualifiers.

Williams recently made her international debut, when she stood in the first One-day and first Twenty20 Internationals during the Pakistan Women’s Tour of the West Indies.

The 39-year-old is being groomed by the WICB with an eye to possible selection on the international panel for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2017 in England and Wales.

In Kingston, Jamaica: The hosts have won their last three matches, follow-

ing an opening round defeat against the Pride, and currently trail the Jags by 20 points in the standings. They will want to cut the deficit substantially to slow the roll of the table leaders in the hope of keeping the Tournament alive.

The visitors have been unbeaten in all four of their matches this season. Such an impressive record and healthy lead in the standings will inspire them further to move out of reach of the rest of the competition – including their hosts - as they make a push to enter

Charlestown Secondary, Anna Regina Multilateral and Aurora Secondary move into final CHARLESTOWN Secondary, Anna Regina Multilateral and Aurora Secondary won their semi-final matchups to move into the final of their respective Zones in the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) National Secondary School Cricket League (NSSCL) sponsored by Banks DIH Ltd Coco Cola Rainforest Water along with Digicel.

In the South Georgetown Zone, action went down at the GNIC ground. Tucville Secondary won the toss and decided to bat first. However, they could only get to 98/8 when their 20 overs were completed. Only Rondave Noel and Godfrey Phillip offered any resistance with 25 and 21. Bowling for Charles-

town Secondary, Qumar Torrington had excellent figures of 4/16 off 4 overs.

Charlestown Secondary then made light work of their target, finishing the game with a six in the 16th over as they marched to the final. Qumar Torrington showed his all-round ability by stroking 26 not out.

In the first match in the Essequibo Coast Zone, Anna Regina Multilateral crushed 8th of May Secondary by 146 runs at the Imman Bacchus ground.

Batting first, Anna Regina Multilateral posted 191/7 in their 30 overs. Kushal Hemraj stroked 47 with four boundaries and Bomesh Ramdahin scored 34. Bowling for 8th of May, Romeo Vanslygtman 2/9.

In reply, 8th of May

was folded for a paltry 45 all out in 10.3 overs. Kurt Williams was outstanding with the ball taking 6/20 off 5 overs. He was well supported by Ranesh Persaud with 4/14 as Anna Regina Multilateral only used two bowlers.

The second match was played at the NOC ground.

Aurora Secondary had the better of Johanna Cecelia Secondary by 111 runs.

Taking first strike after winning the toss, Aurora Secondary amassed 171/5 in just 20 overs as national under-15 batsman Orlando Jailall who struck an entertaining 56. His knock was laced with 6 fours and 1 six.

Davendra Mohan supported well with 38 along with

35 from Shamar Dusraj.

In reply, Johanna Cecelia Secondary never threatened Aurora Secondary’s target as they barely scraped to 60 all out in 15.4 overs. Bowling for the Aurora Secondary team, Ravendra Anouge displayed excellent control as he claimed 4/7. Roel Latchman and Orson Gibson had two wickets each.

Charlestown Secondary will now play Lodge Secondary in the South Georgetown Zone final on a date to be set while Aurora Secondary and Anna Regina Multilateral have now earned the right to play each other in the Essequibo Coast final which will be played tomorrow, Friday, December 11, 2015.

the break with back-toback titles firmly within their reach.

Recent history favours the Jaguars – they have won the last three matches between the two sides, including the two at the venues for this weekend’s contest which has not been a happy hunting ground for them.

This however, will be extra motivation for the Scorpions, as they are a side that believe defending home turf is important and will also take comfort in the knowledge that their opponents have won only three

times out of 32 matches overall in Jamaica.

Tagenarine Chanderpaul has been brought into the Jaguars line-up for the first time this season to replace opener Shimron Hetmyer, so that there is a possibility of the rare sight of him and his father, veteran left-hander Shivnarine Chanderpaul batting together.

Hetmyer has departed for Grenada, where he will join members of the West Indies Under-19 squad preparing for the ICC Youth World Cup in Bangladesh early next year.

NOTABLE DATES SHAWN Garnett won the vacant New York State Junior Middleweight title following a fifth round Technical Knock Out of previously undefeated Audrey Tsurkan of the Ukraine. The fight took place on December 11, 2002 at the Hudson Theatre in New York.

Tsurkan had all 18 fights before meeting the Guyanese southpaw. Four months later Garnett added the World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino title to his collection after pounding out a Unanimous Decision over Colombian Epifanio Mendoza.

Garnett, known as `The Heat’ started his pro career on a shaky note but bounced back to make amends later on. On his debut in November 1998, he lost by decision to Charles Clarke. However, `The Heat’ rebounded and finished the next 10 fights without a defeat.

Garnett, who fought out of Canada, had his last fight on June 26, 2009. He lost the eightround contest by unanimous decision to Austin `No Doubt’ Trout, who would later become the WBA middleweight champion. Garnett’s record is made up of 11 victories, six defeats and two draws.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 11, 2015

Guyana begins quest for Futsal glory UNDER the guidance of Technical Director Claude Bolton and former National Coach Denzil Thompson, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) held its first day of try-out for the National Futsal Team.

Guyana will participate at the January 22 – 26 Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Futsal Tournament in Cuba and some of the top futsal players who were shortlisted by the GFF, converged at the National Gymnasium to be evaluated by the GFF’s technical team.

The trial which will conclude on Saturday will see successful participants being asked to join a minicamp in the first part of January where the final selection will be made.

Guyana will be placed in Group ‘A’ with Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda and Haiti, while in Group ‘B’, host Cuba will

Technical Director Claude Bolton addressing the players at yesterday’s trials

Mayor’s Birth Anniversary finals shifted to Den Amstel ground THE Mayor’s 81st Birth Anniversary Seven-a-Side Football tournament finals have been shifted from the Victoria ground, East Coast Demerara, and will now be contested at the Den Amstel ground, West Coast Demerara on December 19.

According to tournament organiser, Lennox `Mullen’ Arthur, the change in venue for the round-of-eight finals had to be changed, since he did not get permission from the administrators of the East Coast facility for the finals which were slated for last Saturday.

He said also that Mayor Hamilton Green was overseas at the time and would not have been able to make the presentation of prizes to the respective prize winners.

The finals were originally slated for the Thirst Park ground some three weeks ago but the unavailability of the venue caused Arthur to reschedule the finals. Subsequently it was further rescheduled and according to Arthur, will definitely be contested on December 19.

In the eight-team finals, Kitty will face Lima Dam in the opening game; Uitvlugt will come up against Haslington in game two; Victoria will face Mahaica in the third game,

and host Den Amstel tackles Pouderoyen.

The winners of game one will then meet the winners of game three, and the winners of the second game will face the winners of game four in the two semi-final matches.

In the third-place play off, the losers of the fifth and sixth game on the day’s card will meet each other in the third-place play-off, while the winners of the fifth and sixth games will oppose each other in the final game which carries a first prize of $200,000 and a trophy, compliments of John Fernandes Limited.

The second-place team will receive $100,000 and a trophy from the Department of Youth and Sports.

The third-place play-off winners will earn $70,000 and a trophy from China Trading and the fourth-place finishers will receive $30,000 and a trophy from The Business School.

Other sponsors on board are: Banks DIH Limited, Beepat’s, CBR Mining Aruwai, MACORP, Guyana Beverages, Massy, IPA, Muneshwar, E-Networks, BEV Processors, E.C. Vieira, Crown Mining, Sattar Gafoor, Kenav HDL and Nigel Pile.

be joined by St Maarten, Costa Rica and Guadeloupe.

The top two teams from the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) tournament will advance to the CONCACAF Futsal Championship. The 2016 CONCACAF Futsal Championship will be held in Costa Rica in May. Same as previous editions, the tournament acts as the CONCACAF qualifiers for the FIFA Futsal World Cup. The top four teams of the tournament will qualify for the 2016 FIFA Futsal World Cup in Colombia as the CONCACAF representatives.

Guyana last participated at the CFU Futsal Tournament in 2008, finishing fourth behind winners and host Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti (second place) and Suriname (third place).

GTT/Limacol Football Championship ––Milerock receive spoils

MILEROCK Football, winners of the of the just concluded GTT/Limacol Football Championship, along with other top finishers, received their spoils on Wednesday evening at a simple presentation ceremony, held at the Bandsville Hotel.

The Linden club defeated Victory Kings 4 – 3 on penalty, after regulation and extra time saw the two sides locked on a goal each when the final was played

at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground on Sunday last.

Milerock pocketed $500,000 for the win, while Victoria Kings went home with $250,000.

Third place finisher Topp XX collected $125,000 while Winners Connection received $75,000 for finishing fourth.

The Most Valuable Player (MVP) award went to Milerock’s Clarence Huggins and received

$40,000 while team-mate Martin Leacock collected the best goal-keeper award and $25,000.

Adrian Adonis, the forward from New Amsterdam United finished as the tournament’s highest goal scorer, netting seven goals and was awarded $25,000.

Brian Joseph of Milerock FC was named the tournament’s Best Coach. He was awarded with a trophy and $25,000.

Milerock FC’s players and coach with sponsors at the presentation ceremony

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 11, 2015

Voges, Marsh drive Australia to 438-3 ADAM Voges scored 174 and Shaun Marsh 139 in an unbroken partnership of 317 runs to give Australia a commanding 438 for three at the close of play on the opening day of the first test against West Indies in Hobart on Thursday.

The hosts are overwhelming favourites to win the three-match series and but for a slight wobble when they lost Steve Smith (10) and David Warner (64) before lunch, they simply dominated the tourists at Bellerive Oval.

West Indies had spoken of targeting what they perceived as a weakness in Australia’s middle-order but thirty-something Western Australians Voges and Marsh sent them straight back to the drawing board by batting through the last two sessions.

“I’ve batted with Vogesy a lot of times for WA and to have that partnership today was pretty special,” Marsh told ABC radio.

“I knew that if we just ground them down we could score some runs at the end of the day. Vogesy batted really well and got

me going and I’m really happy that we both got hundreds.”

Voges, who made his debut against West Indies in Roseau earlier this year, secured his third century in 11 tests off exactly 100 de-

Marsh matched him with his own third test century deep into the final session, pulling the 150th delivery he had faced through square leg for his ninth four to reach the milestone for the first time on home

At stumps on Day 1, Adam Voges was unbeaten on 174 with Shaun Marsh not out 139 in a unbeaten fourth-wicket partnership of 317 liveries from the penultimate ball before tea.

soil.

His partner did not allow

Marsh to hog the limelight for long, however, and a reverse sweep for three runs soon brought up Voges’s first 150 in the longest form of the game.

At the close of play, Voges had hit 19 boundaries and taken his tally of runs in his maiden year of test cricket to an impressive 827.

West Indies captain Jason Holder had a miserable day after losing the toss and could face a disciplinary action after only 50 overs were bowled in the first two sessions.

His woes were compounded by a left ankle injury which left paceman Shannon Gabriel unable to bowl and booked in for scans on the joint on Thursday evening.

In the 10 overs he did bowl, Gabriel mixed the sloppy -- a preposterous front-foot no ball -- with the sublime -- a 147.2 kilometres per hour rocket which went through the gate to bowl Australian opener Joe Burns for 33.

West Indies opted for a four-pronged pace attack but it was left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican who dismissed Warner and Smith to peg the

Australians back after they had scored 70 runs in the first 10 overs.

Voges put the 23-yearold Barbadian in his place by clubbing him for four boundaries in one over just after lunch, a statement of intent which presaged Australia’s dominance of

the rest of the day.

“We thought we were in a good position before lunch but the partnership between Voges and Marsh put us right on the back foot,” Warrican said.

“We just weren’t disciplined and that put us into this hole.”

SCOREBOARD Dec 10 (Infostrada Sports) - Scoreboard at stumps on the first day in the first Test between Australia and West Indies on Thursday in Hobart, Australia Australia 1st innings J. Burns b Gabriel 33 D. Warner c Ramdin b Warrican 64 S. Smith c Blackwood b Warrican 10 A. Voges not out 174 S. Marsh not out 139 Extras (b-4 lb-2 nb-11 w-1) 18 Total (for 3 wickets, 89 overs) 438 Fall of wickets: 1-75 J. Burns,2-104 S. Smith,3-121 D. Warner To bat: M. Marsh, P. Nevill, P. Siddle, J. Pattinson, J. Hazlewood, N. Lyon Bowling J. Taylor K. Roach S. Gabriel J. Holder J. Warrican K. Brathwaite J. Blackwood

12 - 0 - 76 - 0(nb-1 w-1) 11 - 1 - 64 - 0(nb-3) 10 - 1 - 59 - 1(nb-4) 15 - 1 - 45 - 0(nb-3) 22 - 1 - 111 - 2 13 - 0 - 52 - 0 6 - 0 - 25 - 0

Referees Umpire: Marais Erasmus Umpire: Ian Gould TV umpire: Chris Gaffaney Match referee: Chris Broad0

Guptill century puts New Zealand in strong position MARTIN Guptill and Kane Williamson set the platform, and then Captain Brendon McCullum provided the fireworks as New Zealand posted a strong first innings score in the first test against Sri Lanka in Dunedin on Thursday.

Guptill, who had received a tacit warning he may have been playing for his place in the side, struck his third test century, while Williamson fell just short of his 13th as they combined in a record 173-run second wicket partnership.

“The way we batted throughout and the way we were able to rotate the strike and get the strike rate going was really pleasing,” Guptill told reporters of the partnership.

McCullum, who is likely to be playing his final test in his home city before his expected retirement after the World Twenty20 in March, then smashed Sri Lanka’s bowlers around the picturesque University Oval to accelerate his side’s innings.

McCullum scored 75 runs from 57 balls in a little under an hour before his side reached the close of the first day on 409-8, with

Doug Bracewell on 32 and Neil Wagner yet to score after the visitors took six wickets in the final session.

The 34-year-old McCullum made a streaky start but

ly dismissed with five overs remaining when he was caught by wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal off Angelo Mathews.

“Any time you get a hun-

New Zealand batsmen Kane Williamson (left) and Martin Guptill run through for a quick single opened up to dominate the 89-run fourth-wicket stand with Guptill (156), who had earlier put the hosts in a strong position with Williamson.

Guptill, who had a poor run in the recent Australia series, was final-

dred you’re satisfied but to be able to kick on and get to 150 was pretty pleasing and it set the game up well for us,” Guptill added.

“They (the coaching staff) have been good to me and given me a good run in the test side and

today capped off a lot of hard work over the last 18 months to get back in the test side.”

Williamson, who has scored almost 1,000 test runs in 2015, never appeared in trouble at the crease as he guided the ball around the field at will before he was well caught at slip by Dimuth Karunaratne off Nuwan Pradeep for 88 just before tea.

The pair’s record second-wicket stand for New Zealand against Sri Lanka had stymied any assistance the visitors had hoped to extract from the greentinged pitch after winning the toss.

The visitors, however, clawed their way back into the game after McCullum departed when he top-edged the third delivery of left-arm spinner Milinda Siriwardana’s first over and was caught at deep square leg by Kithuruwan Vithanage.

Dushmantha Chameera then got rid of both Mitchell Santner (12) and BJ Watling (five) to check the scoring rate before Guptill and Tim Southee (two) fell to Mathews and Suranga Lakmal respectively.

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31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 11, 2015

UDFA launches ‘GT Beer’ tourney

By Joe Chapman PRESIDENT of the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA) Sharma Solomon summed it up for the grand launching on Wednesday afternoon at the Egbert Benjamin Conference Hall for those attending by stating simply, “At the end of the year we are returning to the spectacle that we all look forward to.”

These are words of comfort to the football-crazed Linden community which indeed have perennially craved for a year of football extravaganza. They now have the re-assuring sponsorship from Banks DIH who sealed the playing of the third annual UDFA GT Beer football championship which starts on Sunday at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground and the final set for January 1, 2016.

In attendance at the Launch were Banks DIH Communications Manager Troy Peters, Banks DIH Outdoor Events Manager Mortimer Stewart, GT Beer Brand Manager Jeff Clement, Shondel Easton the Banks DIH Linden Branch Manager and representatives of the fourteen clubs which will be playing in the tournament.

In his own inimitable style of recent memory Solomon recalled, “We always say,

and it is important regardless of the kind of representation you are here for, based on my recent background, regardless in our action, when we do anything of on your behalf it is done on a level that we take pride in representing as long as the price is right, (and) it is worth the sacrifice, because we understood what this programme means to the people of this community at the end of the year, that you subscribe to what we are doing, that the year end football belongs to the people of Linden.”

He mentioned the corporate sponsorship that the sport enjoys but was particularly pleased to single out beverage giants Banks DIH for the continued sponsorship and noted, “We are also grateful that Banks DIH for the third year would have seen it fit by injecting millions of dollars for the development of you, our footballers.”

But Solomon cautioned “We have to work in partnership, and working in partnership requires a level of discipline which we ask that you commit.”

Meanwhile, Peters spoke of the Banks DIH continued involvement in the sport as they support the efforts of the UDFA to ensure football is played and the development of the game is assured with this partnership.

Peters recalled, “What is of significance and of more importance is that the GT

GFA/Banks Beer Cup kicks off Sunday

By Stephan Sookram THE evergreen partnership between beverage giants Banks DIH and the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) yesterday bore fruit to the 5th edition of their knock-out Football tournament, set to kick off on Sunday.

The tournament, which will see the winner taking home a handsome purse of $2M and a trophy, will be played at four venues across Guyana (No.5 Village, Berbice; GFC ground; Guyana Defence Force Ground; and Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary).

The runners-up will take home $1M and a trophy while the 3rd and 4th place teams will cart off $500,000 and $250,000 respectively.

According to Vice-President of the GFA Frank Parris, the 16-team tournament will feature four Berbice units in Rosginol United, Hope FC, New Amsterdam United and Cougars.

The Georgetown sides are the Western Tigers, Sunburst Camptown, Northern Rangers, Blackwater FC, Guyana Police Force, Eastville FC, Santos, Blackpearl, Beacon, Flamingo, Riddim Squad and Houston Stars.

Parris added that though the tournament will allow three guest players, the

GFA will not accept any player that was on any of the recently concluded Stag Elite League team lists.

President of the GFA Clifton Hicken in a brief comment during Thursday’s launch said, “We need to maintain this partnership if we are to grow football in our country,” adding that they are keen on developing the sport from the grass root.

Banks Beer Brand Manager Brian Choo-Hen contended, “We look forward to getting the support from the football fans once again for this tournament.”

Western Tigers will take on Hope FC from 18:00 hrs while Sunburst Campton lock horns with Northern Rangers from 21:00 hrs on Sunday at the Police Sports Club Ground at Eve Leary. A march past ceremony is planned for 20:00 hrs.

The final of the tournament will be played on New Year’s Day with the National Stadium Providence being touted as the venue.

In the last edition of the tournament, Alpha United defeated the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) 3-1, thanks to a double from Gregory Richardson and a lone strike from Dwight Peters, while Pele FC stopped Western Tigers 1 – 0 for 3rd place.

Apology CHRONICLE Sport apologises for the mix-up in yesterday’s issue which resulted in a picture of Shivnarine Chanderpaul being captioned Brian Lara.

We regret the error.

SHIVNARINE CHANDERPAUL

Beer was launched in Linden three years ago and we owe a debt of gratitude to the Linden community for that take off, which has caught on countrywide.”

According to Peters, “If you look at the recent performances of sports persons from Linden, particularly the recent National Schools Athletics, Swimming and Cycling Championships the town of Linden and Region Ten on the whole have excelled, and with this kind of showing Banks DIH is more than willing to contribute to the development of sports in the mining town of Linden.”

Easton, Banks DIH Linden Branch Manager was excited about the role Banks DIH is playing in the tournament as she looked forward to the continued relationship by her company and the UDFA for the ultimate development of football in Linden and the region.

The programme was chaired by Organising Secretary of the UDFA Vanessa Kissoon who assured Banks DIH that the UDFA will ensure their investment would go a long way in the development of the sport in the entire region.

Voges, Marsh drive Australia to 438-3 See story on page 30

Guyana begins quest for Futsal glory See story on page 29

Chronicle Sport photographer Delano Williams was on hand yesterday at the National Gymnasium during trials for the National Futsal team

UDFA launches GFA/Banks Beer Cup ‘GT Beer’ tourney kicks off Sunday See story on page 31

GT Beer Brand Manager Jeff Clement makes a presentation to UDFA President Sharma Solomon to mark the official launching of the UDFA GT Beer Football Tournament.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9

See story on page 31

GFA president Clifton Hicken collects the winner’s trophy from Banks Beer Brand manager Brian Choo-hen in the presence of other GFA Executives.

(Delano Williams Photo) FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015