Guyana chronicle 04 04 14

GUYANA No. 103788

FRIDAY APRIL 4, 2014

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

APNU’s Jaipaul Sharma

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resigns as MP - says he is not ‘competent’ enough, lacks debating skills & vibrancy, and doesn’t know to ‘heckle’ ‘RESIGNED’: JAIPAUL SHARMA

Ramsammy bemoans 8 ‘distorted dispensation’ of Parliament

Speaker lifts ban on Manickchand’s ability to address 2 House

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Minister Priya Manickchand

Prisoner stabbed in 15 Camp Street jail Page

Renrick Alexander, 61, found guilty of murder …jailed for 56 years Page 15

Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy in Parliament yesterday

- says Opposition criticisms are of some other Guyana

Duo charged after police remove cocaine, cannabis from Better Hope house Page 15

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

Speaker lifts ban on Manickchand’s ability to address House

By Vanessa Narine

SPEAKER of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman, yesterday informed the House that he had reviewed Tuesday’s incident involving what he had termed a “dastardly” comment by Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, along with a clarification she provided on Wednesday.

And he ruled that the Minister will be allowed to make her presentation on the 2014 Budget, effectively lifting the ban he imposed on Tuesday.

During the presentation of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) front-bencher, Volda Lawrence, who was at the time addressing statutory rape of young girls, Manickchand said, “Ask your APNU member Sharma.”

Sitting APNU Member, Jaipaul Sharma, rose in protest of the reference and requested, through Speaker Raphael Trotman, for an apology to be issued.

Trotman stated that Manickchand either apologise or he will not entertain her

presentation on Budget 2014.

Manickchand, in defense, sought to qualify her statement, pointing out that her reference was to the father of the APNU’s member, Chandra Narine Sharma, who has been fingered in several sexual assault allegations.

Sharma is also the leader of the Justice For All Party (JFAP), which is part of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition.

The Education Minister said, “Mr. Speaker I have never refused to heed your advice, but five children….”

The Speaker interjected at this point and maintained that an apology should be given.

Tr o t m a n s a i d , “ Yo u said ask the member of the APNU…if this is your attitude…I deem it to be highly improper and if you don’t apologise I will not recognise you to participate in this debate.”

The Speaker of the House

gave Manickchand the choice to apologise or not, stating that she was in her right not to.

The Education Minister stood on her principle and opted not to apologise.

Manickchand had told the Chronicle that she refuses to apologise to C.N. Sharma as she cannot abandon victims in the name of keeping Parliament happy. The minister was also adamant that she will not contribute to a culture of “hushing up rape”.

DISSATISFIED Chief Whip of APNU, Amna Ally, yesterday rose to question the revised ruling of the Speaker and demanded an apology be issued.

The Speaker made it clear that, while Ally is within her right to demand an apology, yesterday’s ruling is not a debatable one.

He reiterated that his review of the events leading up

Education Minister Priya Manickchand and Government’s Chief Whip Gail Teixeira in the National Assembly yesterday.

to the comment, the comment itself and comments made by both Sharma and Manickchand subsequently, were the basis for his decision.

Tro t m a n s a i d , “ M r.

Sharma himself did say that his father was being impugned, not himself…he did not feel it was he. I believed the comment was directed at a sitting member, but Sharma said my father….I must take cognisance of this.”

SEXUAL IMPROPRIETY The legal standard is that despite allegations, a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

In April 2010, the proprietor of the CNS TV Channel 6, Chandra Narine Sharma, was questioned by Police ranks at Eve Leary after he was invited there following reports by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Child Care and Protection Department of multiple rapes committed on four underage sisters. Following a bout of questioning, he was taken to the Brickdam lockups where he collapsed and was subsequently hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

In May 2013, the carnal knowledge accused Sharma was committed to stand trial in the High Court for allegedly raping a 13-year-old girl back in 2010.

The decision was made

by Magistrate Sueanna Lovell at the end of a preliminary inquiry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The magistrate informed the court that a prima facie case had been made out against the popular television owner and talk show host.

In a sworn affidavit, the 13-year-old girl alleged that Sharma had been sexually

molesting her and her sisters, with the consent of their mother. “He raped me when I was living with my mother…

He call me in my (then) house in Alexander Street, said to come for this thing…He hold me down in the room and raped me…my sisters they

and two younger ones (who were nine and five years old respectively at the time). The girl has said that she would receive $2,000 weekly from Sharma.

The child also stated that she was afraid of Sharma.

The entire court proceedings were held in camera away from the public eye.

In March this year, after suffering multiple strokes, the veteran broadcaster retuned to

Speaker of the House Raphael Trotman yesterday. (Adrian Narine photo) come in and they see and they come out and waited outside until he finished.”

The girl said the abuse only stopped when she refused to return to her mother’s home. In the affidavit, the girl also alleged that Sharma molested her two older sisters

the airways to host his popular call-in programme ‘Voice of the People’.

Sharma’s health deteriorated following allegations of sexual impropriety by under aged girls.

The matter is still before the High Court.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

APNU’s Jaipaul Sharma resigns as MP

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- says he is not ‘competent’ enough, lacks debating skills & vibrancy, and doesn’t know to ‘heckle’ MEMBER of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Jaipaul Sharma yesterday resigned as a Member of Parliament.

He has forwarded a letter to this effect to Speaker of the House, Raphael Trotman.

Sharma told the media yesterday that his decision to resign was based on alleged controversial statements made

by Education Minister Priya Manickchand on Tuesday night.

But subsequently, at the start of Wednesday’s sitting, Minister Manickchand clarified that her ‘heckle’ in the National Assembly was not directed at Sharma.

The APNU member explained that his decision was taken after much consideration and is “a strategic move”.

“I will not be a political football,” he said, explaining that given the hints of snap elections, Manickchand’s comment, which was directed at his father, Chandra Narine Sharma, can be used to affect the standing of the APNU. According to Sharma, his move is the “honourable” thing to do and APNU has many capable members who can fill his seat.

‘LOOKING LOST’: APNU’s Member of Parliament Jaipaul Sharma standing outside Public Buildings yesterday shortly after his resignation. (Adrian Narine photo)

NO MORE CIRCUS “I submit a resignation to the Speakers’ secretary at 11 am today (yesterday) stating that I resigned from the National Assembly. I would not be a part of that circus anymore. I already made my mind up…,” Sharma told

reporters.

Asked why he choose to resign at such a critical point in time, Sharma said: “I resigned at a time where I gave the Opposition sufficient time to replace me with somebody competent, somebody more vibrant.”

Elaborating his point, Sharma admits that he lacks vibrancy and is not a competent debater.

Sharma said the Opposition needs “somebody more competent” than he is in terms of debating. “I am not competent… they need more vibrant people in the Assembly to teach the PPP a lesson. I am not a rowdy person. I don’t heckle nobody.

They need to fight fire with fire,” Sharma said.

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition, David Granger, told reporters that his party APNU has (at that point in time) not received a copy of the resignation and as such would not comment on the matter.

However, he did say that talks will continue with Sharma to review his position.

Granger said, “Mr. Sharma is a valued member…we will continue to engage him.”

Addressing the controversial statements made by Manickchand, who despite her clarification made no apology, the Opposition Leader said the Speaker’s initial decision to bar the Education Minister from speaking was the right one.

Trotman has since lifted the ban on Manickchand.

Political grandstanding will not work, pass the AML/CFT Bill

- National Assembly hears

By Vanessa Narine

THE non-passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Terrorism of Finance Bill (AML/CFT) Bill made its way into Tuesday night’s continuation of the 2014 Budget Debates in the National Assembly.

And Labour Minister, Dr. Nanda Gopaul, made it clear that political grandstanding will not work, as he called for the passage of the critically important piece of legislation.

“If you want to see goodwill, show goodwill,” he said, assuring that the Government is committed to working with the Opposition to ensure that the interest of the Guyanese people take precedence.

The minister said, “We can no longer be divisive…we need political solution, some kind of compromise.”

However, Gopaul made it clear that a compromise is not a compromise if the route taken is that of coercive machinations.

He said, “We have to negotiate with an open mind and act in the interest of people…we need to get to a point where every position is seen from different points of view…instead what we have is an impasse.”

The Labour Minister called for the Opposition to work with the

Government.

“Our country can no longer sail in an area where we fight,” Gopaul said.

AMENDING AMENDMENTS The Parliamentary Special Select Committee, which is reviewing the AML/CFT Bill is currently waiting on Chief Parliamentary Counsel, Cecil Dhurjon, to complete a new draft that includes amendments to the initial amendments proposed by A Partnership for Unity (APNU).

The APNU’s three amendments address a change to the entire governing apparatus of the Financial MINISTER Intelligence Unit (FIU); removal NANDA GOPAUL of the Attorney General wherever that name appears and replacing it with the FIU; and vesting a police officer or customs officer with

a power to seize currency from any person, anywhere in Guyana, if those officers have reason to believe that the currency is the proceeds of crime or will be used to finance crime.

In addition to their amendments, the APNU is also calling for the Head of State to assent to several Bills he returned to the National Assembly with an explanation for his decision, citing the unconstitutionality of the legislations.

On the other hand, the Alliance For Change (AFC), which supports the APNU’s position, is calling for the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) - which Government has already expressed its support for, providing that Cabinet retains its no-objection role in the procurement process. The latter has been rejected by the AFC. Guyana missed the February 28 deadline when the country was required to submit a report to CFATF, which was expected to include a copy of the enacted Bill, which will, after analysis, be correlated to the deficiencies identified by the body at its November 2013 Plenary meeting, before a report is made in May 2014. Guyana, unfortunately, was only able to report on the non-legislative recommendations by CFATF. If the May Plenary is dissatisfied with Guyana’s progress, CFATF’s November 2013 statement already provides the decision for the country’s referral to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which meets again in June 2014.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

History will not absolve you…

Minister Whittaker warns Opposition against Budget cuts

By Vanessa Narine MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr. Norman Whittaker appealed to the Opposition during the 2014 Budget Debate in the National Assembly Wednesday night, not to “derail” Guyana’s progress.

“Something that works, don’t try to fix it, you’re not good at that,” he admonished the other side of the House.

According to him, Budget 2014 contains a menu of measures to, undoubtedly, create a better Guyana for all the people of this country.

“The Guyanese people will not forgive you; history will not absolve you,” Whittaker said, referring to the Opposition’s hints at cuts to the 2014 Estimates.

The Minister said it would seem that the Opposition is “embarrassed” by the continued progress and development under the current Administration, which is why their Members of Parliament (MPs) are seeking, in their contributions to the debate, to downplay the successes recorded.

“Progress and development must not be stymied by personal interest,” he cautioned.

The Minister emphasised that Budget 2014 will improve the lives of all Guyanese, as it represents an investment in the

country’s people, the nation’s true wealth.

Whittaker said it would seem that the Opposition is blind to the fact that Budget 2014 is a good one.

“The Budget is one with something for everyone, look and you will see,” he urged.

The Minister added that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has always viewed the Budget as an important planning tool, which sets out the Government’s vision for developmental advances.

“Respectability has been restored and our people enjoy a higher standard of living than in 70s and 80s,” he argued, as he underscored the eight consecutive years of growth Guyana experienced.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE Whittaker maintained that the Guyanese economy has experienced eight consecutive years of growth, up to 2013 and is projected to expand by a further 5.6 percent in 2014.

With growth estimated at 5.6 percent, the non-sugar economy is calculated to grow by 5.2 percent. Monetary policy primary objective continues to be price stability and, for the year 2014, an inflation rate of 5 percent is targeted. The overall balance of payment is estimated to record an overall deficit of US$21.9M

in 2014, compared to a deficit of US$119.5M in 2013.

“The Opposition is moving to affect our momentum,” he charged, pointing to the successes in many areas, including the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

“This is impact!” he asserted.

The Minister argued, too, that contrary to the Opposition’s complaints, there has been consultation with the masses of stakeholders.

“The other side thinks consultation is a one off something before the budget…for us it is a year long process, when we reach out to people wherever they are gathered to listen to views and recommendations,” he said.

Minister Whittaker upbraided the Opposition for not heeding Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh’s invitation for consultations.

The Finance Minister, last week, said: “It is a matter of public record we invited the Opposition parties on several occasions and they failed to turn up.”

He disclosed that his recent e-mail, dated January 13, 2014, extended Government’s invitation to meet on Budget 2014 and requested A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member Carl Greenidge to suggest a date.

Dr. Singh said the e-mail was also copied to Opposition Leader David Granger, Lance Carberry, Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader Khemraj Ramjattan, Head of the Presidential

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Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon and Presidential Advisor on Governance Gail Teixeira and it also contained copies of documents to be discussed.

STONY SILENCE However, the invitation was met with stony silence by Granger and Greenidge, the Finance Minister lamented.

Further, he said in February

minister reported.

He said that consultations are what keeps the Government informed of the needs of the people and strengthens the relationship of the current Adminis-

tration with the people.

“We have a strong relationship with the people…the re-election to office for the last two decades is proof of that,” Whittaker said.

Duo get two years each for break-in at old New Thriving building

By Geeta Rampersaud

MINISTER NORMAN WHITTAKER 2014, there was still no response from the Parliamentary Opposition parties to government’s invitation to participate in pre-budget consultations.

Whittaker lauded the support of the many other stakeholders, in particular, representative groups which did engage the Government in consultations on Budget 2014.

“PPP/C budgets have been working for all of us…they have brought us positive results,” the

MAGISTRATE Ann McLennan yesterday sentenced two labourers to two years’ imprisonment each for break and enter and larceny committed at the old New Thriving restaurant on Camp Street.

Ian Paul, 36, (no address given) and Adito Smith, 40, of ‘D’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, both pleaded guilty with explanation to the charge. The particulars stated that on Sunday, March 30 at Georgetown, they broke and entered the old New Thriving building on Camp Street, and stole one metal chair and a quantity of construction tools, together valued $300,000, property of Jeng Shen Zue. Police Corporal Dinero Jones, prosecuting, said around 22:00 hrs police dressed in plain clothes observed the duo in the building throwing out white bags containing the articles stated in the charge from a window. The ranks waited until the two men exited the building and arrested both of them.

The prosecutor said the virtual complainant identified the stolen articles and the two men, who were unrepresented, admitted orally under caution to committing the offence.

Paul said that the articles were condemned and laid at the back of the building and not inside. He added that it was his bad luck he got caught and begged the court for leniency in sentencing.

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GUYANA

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

‘The Herbal Doctor’ continues to dupe Berbicians - with his nonsensical gibberish

EDITORIAL

APNU’s politically expedient somersaults

THE original Motion to restore Georgetown to its glory days of yore was sponsored by the Opposition, having been introduced by APNU’s Volda Lawrence, and passed in the National Assembly last year.

She had declared: “As an elected body, we have a mandate to restore the splendour of the ‘Garden City. Today, we must let our voices be jointly heard in support of this Motion titled ‘Restoration Georgetown’.

Well, the Government did not need to hear those voices, because the clamour for the restoration of Georgetown to its original splendour was being sounded within Cabinet for the PPP/Cs entire duration in office, and its many interventions -- financial, with resource-provision and otherwise -- have been testimony that its concern about the state of the city is paramount and sustained, because of the many variables causing distress to the national psyche that the state of Guyana’s former Garden City is impacting on the consciousness of both residents and visitors.

But all these interventions, except for some infrastructural projects such as constructing and/or rehabilitating roads and public buildings etc, have been filtered through the Mayor and City Council.

Bad decision! Because resources and funds dissipated and disappeared as soon as they were allocated, while the Mayor and chosen colleagues toured the world and lived in splendour, even as the state of the city and environs visibly deteriorated by the second, and City finances plunged further into subterranean levels, like the national exchequer pre-1992.

There was, at the maximum, scant accountabily, with the Burrowes Commission of Inquiry having actually discovered massive networks of fraudulent transactions spanning back to uncountable years, as did Ramon Gaskin.

Dr. Cheddi Jagan -- known for his rectitude in language and his inclusionary politics, where he always reaches out to protagonists for joint initiatives in nation-building -- once became so incensed with the constant gerrymandering in the M&CC that he was provoked into calling the City Councillors “A bunch of rascals.”

Guyana’s steady macro-developmental and economic fundamentals are not fortitudinous nor dependent on serendipity, but on the PPPs astute and prudent management of fiscal imperatives and dependent factors to upward mobility in the national development paradigm. So this money that the Opposition is fighting over like rabid dogs are not theirs by right of any decree, but the trust of people to be managed for the greater good of the nation. And the PPP/C Government has never yet failed the Guyanese people in

THE host of AFC’s programme, ‘Alliance on the Move’ continues in his inimitable style to make irresponsible statements which are meant to deceive those who depend on the programme for information, or rather misinformation, on a wide range of issues.

‘HERBAL DOC’ ON THE BUDGET On March 29, 2014, on DTV 8, I painfully listened to ‘The Herbal Doctor’ trying his utmost to confuse his listeners. He firstly attempted to tell Berbicians that the 2014 Budget has nothing in it for them; nothing for GuySuCo workers; nothing for civil servants; nothing for teachers; nothing for nurses; and nothing for the poor people.

Mr Ramayya should not have walked out of Parliament with his ‘buddies’, since he would have been more edified on those issues. He further claimed that the extra $10,000 to be given to each student is insufficient; that the $30,000 subsidy to old age pensioners is inadequate; that the increase in old age pension cannot even buy ‘butter flap’. He needs to understand that these are assistance given to parents to help their children attend school regularly, and that this government has done more for old age pensioners; more for education; more for public servants; more for teachers; more for sugar workers; and more for this entire country than the previous dictatorship government.

There was a time, Ramayya, when you could have been jailed for that same ‘butter flap’, but you were in the USA having the best that a democratic country can offer! Children got ‘white-mouth’ because of rice flour, and people became criminals because of food. People had to line up for a whole day to buy half a pound of butter! People like you want to the fulfillment of this mandate.

And that is the angst giving the joint Opposition nightmares: That the deliverables that are systematically sending living and lifestyles of the Guyanese people on an ever-upward trajectory are precipitated, enabled and facilitated by a PPP/C Government, whereas the PNC’s (AFC is practically a component of that political party) track record in government is of abysmal failure. APNU’s configuration, nevertheless, the PNC will always be judged accordingly by an ever-increasing disillusioned electorate who are recognising the fluff and venomous spittle that serves as leadership in the joint Opposition.

Since 1992, the PPP/C administration has been trying to clean up the Augean stables that was Guyana, post-PNC stewardship; but blocs, such as Georgetown and elsewhere, were still retained under that Party’s management, and they are a microcosm of Guyana under PNC rule. So, as happened in the country before 1992, those enclaves still remain like huge garbage piles, guzzling the nation’s resources and finances with nothing to show except, literally and figuratively, pits of garbage and dung-heaps.

Government has therefore budgeted in this year’s estimates of expenditure $1B for environmental clean-up, of which $500M has been allocated for the clean-up and restoration of Georgetown and its environs.

However, the national exchequer is not bottomless, so Government decided to bypass the “…bunch of rascals” and deal directly with the miasmic and other matters, which is what is driving the Opposition into a frenzy, because, regardless of the ‘green’ drive, the Greens are being sidelined in this new restorative initiative, with the expected consequences of invectives and accusations being hurled at Government by the parliamentary opposition.

The Opposition’s Motion calls for the support of a number of stakeholders through the establishment of a committee consisting of MPs, the Mayor and City Council and the Ministries of Transport and Hydraulics and Local Government.

However, Local Government Minister, Norman Whittaker said that this did not take into account the lack of responsibility on the part of the agency overlooking the management of the city, which is the M&CC. General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Mr. Clement Rohee, has urged the Government not to channel monies into the hands of the M&CC, as theirs is a fraudulent

bring back that era, because you are a US citizen, and can go back home. We have to live and die here!

Old age pension has increased hundreds of times since the PPP/C government took office. You need to understand that now ‘one butter flap a day can keep ‘The Herbal Doctor’ away’! Economic development is taking place, but at a slow pace due to the AFC and APNU’s non-co-operation with this government. If people like you and your buddies had co-operated, then the old age pensioners would have received more than ‘one butter flap’, and students would have received more assistance from this government. Yet, despite AFC and APNU’s unpatriotic and hate-filled strategies to make this country ungovernable, the Government has come out victorious. Read the Budget well and do a line-by-line analysis in your next episode! Hate-mongers like you cannot stifle development in this country!

He later contradicted himself by saying that the 2014 Budget is an election Budget that is meant to capture votes!

Any reasonable person will tell you that if it is an election budget, then the Budget is good for the country as a whole!

This man has a close affinity with a deck of cards (the two unused ones).

THE CHIEF JUSTICE’S RULING This man should stick to his herbal medicine. At least the herbs he is selling will not kill you, but the irresponsible statements he is making defies logic and commonsense, and can have devastating consequences. He said: “Anil Nandlall went to court, and got Ian Chang to sign that we (PLEASE SEE PAGE 7)

record of mismanagement.

The initiative, which will be executed under the theme, ‘Clean up my Country’, would be larger than two that were previously launched. Rohee, who is also Minister of Home Affairs, declared that Georgetown “has become a ‘Garbage City’ as the Mayor continues to mismanage the Council, and gobble up the city’s resources.”

He added that the PPP wishes to discourage the Government from putting the $500M budgeted for the city in the hands of the Mayor and his Council, especially “…in view of their sordid fraudulent record of mismanagement and unaccountability at City Hall.”

He urged the Government to engage civil society to find ways and means of addressing the solid waste crisis in Georgetown. He also admonished Mayor Hamilton Green and Deputy Mayor, Patricia Chase-Green to learn invaluable lessons on how to manage and run an effective local democratic organ from other PPP/C-administered municipalities, as well as the wider Caribbean, and posited that with the absence of the M&CC, the Government will seek to source labour from public or even private institutions, or even seek a collaborative effort from the two.

Green is on record as saying that he saw no need for the money, as not only is it unnecessary, but that the figure seems more like an election campaign being launched by the Government ahead of the local government elections.

Laughably, however, he subsequently claimed that the $500M is only “a drop in the ocean” since much more will be needed to address the works to be done.

Parroting Green, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) front-bencher, Ronald Bulkan, during the budget debate, denounced the Government’s proposed funding of a national clean-up initiative, claiming that it was a gambit in an elections campaign.

Minister Rohee had accused Mayor Hamilton Green of being hungry for media attention in an effort to remain relevant and regain his rank within the People’s National Congress (PNC), and that he continues to play dirty politics as opposed to serving the interests of the residents of Georgetown.

But this is a normal ploy of the PNC; to opportunistically change position to gratify supporters for political expediency.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

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Nagamootoo is most shameless No middle

FIE! That is my word for Moses Nagamootoo for disparaging the people of Leguan. The Alliance For Change (AFC) Vice-Chairman and Member of Parliament (MP) has shown a side of himself that clearly reveals the kind of person he is. He comes over as uncaring, insensitive and cruel in referring to the people of Leguan as “grass cutters”, and therefore he is not deserving of anything substantial from the PPP/C. I have a few words for the likes of Moses Nagamootoo. First, let me say that I do empathise with the people of Leguan, and I like the response from Region Three’s representative and Government MP, Bibi Shaddick, over this “grass cutter” reference. She has her roots in Leguan, and in her expressed sentiments, she epitomises how the people felt stung and angered by this utter foolishness from the AFC second-in-charge. She is right when she spoke out against Nagamootoo, deeming what he said as most disrespectful.

Let me say that Leguan is not what it used to be.

Testimony to this can be sensed by just going on a boat to visit the island; the

commute is not what it used to be. I have gone to Leguan many times, and I see hardworking and honest people. Even though they are ‘citified’, and by choice, too, they manifest the spirit of the typical hardworking and proud Guyanese people.

MOSES NAGAMOOTOO My family tree goes back to Mahaicony, and we have always been quite similar to the Leguan community: Hardworking, honest, and a great steward of the land, so I guess, to this AFC man, we are also mere ‘grass cutters’.

I point out here, too, that in terms of being polished in speech and classy, Nagamootoo falls very short. He appears quite unkempt, and

he assaults basic English pronunciations. He should bear this in mind when he seeks again to put people down.

The fact that Minister Irfaan Ali and Government MP, Bibi Shaddick are most peeved, and are calling for an apology and a retraction is evidence of how deep the remark cuts. It is tantamount to a racial slur or mockery of a disabled person.

What is also very troubling is how the Speaker of the House handled the situation. He seems to be almost endorsing this kind of uncultured and insensitive behaviour. The man is desecrating his office, and he is also appearing very slanted.

He chided and banned Minister Priya Manickchand, but in the Nagamootoo matter, he said that “Members of Parliament (MPs) need to have ‘a thick skin’, because heckling is allowed during the Budget debates.”

It will do him good if he can read up on what the word ‘heckling’ means; he has given it a whole new meaning. Maybe the Speaker should ask Nagamootoo if he is still peeved that he was sidelined for the presidency, and if he is still hurting by the way A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)

‘The Herbal Doctor’ continues to ...

(FROM PAGE 6)

cannot touch the Budget. Well, we will see next week!”

What message is this man sending? Is he trying to say that the learned Chief Justice, a man of irrefutable integrity, did not make a proper ruling? And that he was influenced in some way by the Attorney-General to turn the decision in the Government’s favour? Have you read the ruling of the Chief Justice? Why are you peddling misinformation to your fellow Berbicians?

ANTI-MONEY-LAUNDERING BILL Next came the crème de la crème of his nonsensical gibberish! ‘The Herbal Doctor’ claimed that persons from the government are coming to Berbice, and are lying with regards to the Anti-Money-Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill. He claimed that the AFC cannot support the Government on the Bill, because the Bill needs a two-thirds majority in Parliament, and that only APNU can give that. He said, “They want to blame the government, but let me tell you, each and every one of you, the PPP lie. Unless you have two-thirds in the Parliament, the Bill cannot pass... AFC cannot stop the PPP from passing the Bill. If not, tomorrow I resign from Parliament and resign from this Party. That is the assurance that I will give you...”

The AML/CFT Bill only needs a simple majority of 51%! This man is a legal genius and should rewrite our Constitution! So, ‘good doctor’, will you keep your promise and resign from the political scene? If not, can you just avoid embarrassing yourself, the AFC, and the people of Berbice by keeping your mouth shut? Where is the truth you boasted about? You said, “This is my truth.” Is it? What a disgrace for a Member of Parliament!

WORLD CLASS COMEDIAN In closing, this man said that Guyana could export lime and receive a revenue of TT$20 for one! In addition, he claimed that someone told him at the Port Mourant Market on the same day of his ‘comedy jam’ that the bell loaders use three to four beds of cane to throw in the drains so that the machines could cross over! If they do that, then what cane will be loaded into the punts? This man should be on stage with Jumbie and Chow-Pow in the next stand-up comedy; he gonna beat them by miles! This man will soon be publishing his own dictionary, ‘Ramayya’s Oxen-Ford Dictionary for Dunces’.

He said that ‘his brother was sweating perfusively’. This sure beats Mrs Malaprop!

HASEEF YUSUF AFC Councillor

treated him when he was hoping to become Speaker of the House.

I’d like to remind readers that the 2014 Budget is advocating for $1B to support Rural Enterprise Development, and this shows great concern for the people. Look how far the Amerindians have come with this same kind of thinking. The idea is that places like Leguan will benefit from enterprise incubation grants, made under this provision. This mindset has always been a part of Government’s effort “to encourage and promote more aggressively the emergence of entrepreneurial ventures in rural communities…”

This is what development is all about, and it is the way forward when we think of jobs for the young people of Guyana.

I doubt if Mr. Nagamootoo can ever show his face in a place like Leguan again. I just wish that the people had the time to come down to Georgetown and protest strongly against him.

LAIKHRAM SINGH

road

POLITICS is about making hard choices. The 2011 elections resulted with the combined Opposition having one seat more than the PPP. This created the objective conditions that required that government and Opposition should find a middle road in their engagements.

What has been the result so far after two years and counting? Zilch! Nothing! The same accusation that is being hurled at the PPP, that their concept of a middle road means only their way, is the exact mindset and replica of the Opposition. Their concept of middle ground means my way or the highway. The politics of consensus is absent from our body politic; it is not working.

The question, therefore, is: What is to be done? Like the old Marxists used to say, the objective and subjective conditions dictate that we call general elections. The PPP has nothing to lose, and all to gain. The PPP running with the incumbent President cannot lose the Presidency, and all the indicators are that they can win back the parliamentary majority. This is based on a major cross-section of the populace being totally fed up with the combined Opposition’s display of a siege mentality, and a ‘hold-meto-ransom’ type of politics.

There is also a resurgence of activism by longstanding comrades of the PPP that is bringing back the vibrancy to the Party. This, coupled with avoiding the mistakes of the last election, will guarantee an electoral victory.

No middle road! Time for general election!

REGGIE BHAGWANDIN

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

Ramsammy bemoans ‘distorted dispensation’ of Parliament

By Vanessa Narine

A G R I C U LT U R E M i n i s ter and Government frontbencher, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, last evening in the National Assembly, delivered a blistering blow to the combined Opposition’s criticisms and bemoaned what he dubbed a “distorted dispensation” in the House.

He said, “There has been much talk about a new dispensation; that our people spoke and want to see greater cooperation; and in truth I have come to realise that there are different dispensations in this 10th Parliament.

“There is a dispensation of blackmail politics. I see a dispensation where blacklisting is an option for our future. Yes, Mr. Speaker, I am dismayed that there is a dispensation called the scissors politics,

which we are so often reminded of. “Those who remind us of the dispensation of the scissors do so with glee. Truly, here in the 10th Parliament, these are distorted dispensations from the ones people may have conjured up in their minds and in their hopes.”

According to him, the “dispensations” played out in the 10th Parliament are “perversions” of the people’s hopes and aspirations.

“The people’s business has become the victims of horse-trading, blackmail and self-serving interests,” Ramsammy stressed.

He continued, “Our people will decide who is guilty and many of them have already expressed their views. Whom the cap fits will wear it. But such perverted dispensations that we have arrogated to ourselves in the name of our people must

- says Opposition criticisms are of some other Guyana

be rejected and must not be allowed to be the character of the 10th Parliament of Guyana.

“I refuse to think that this is the best we can do. I refuse to think that this is even an option.

I refuse to think that we are unable to shift gears and adopt a

is good for Guyana, without hesitation and without a pre-requisite.

“Take for example, the Walter Rodney COI. It is the right thing to do. There has been too much procrastination. We must get on with the

CANU, Police Officers to graduate today from DEA Airport Interdiction Course OFFICERS from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) will take part in a graduation ceremony today upon their completion of a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) airport interdiction course.

The course curriculum included sharing best practices for the establishment of an interdiction unit, review of computer data analysis methodologies, interviewing techniques, and the conduct of seizure operations. U.S. Ambassador D. Brent Hardt is slated to offer remarks while Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee is expected to preside over the ceremony.

The event will be held at the Guyana Police Force Training Centre on Young and Camp Streets in Georgetown.

According to a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown, this programme is made possible through funding by the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative launched by President Obama at the Fifth Summit of the Americas in Trinidad and Tobago in April 2009. Working together, the United States, Guyana and other nations of the Caribbean are combating the drug trade and other transnational crimes that threaten regional security.

Minister Leslie Ramsammy in Parliament yesterday new imperative: the imperative to accelerate development, to foster an environment of cooperation and harmony, to lift the social welfare standards of our people and for our country.”

The Agriculture Minister added that when there is something legislations must do for the country and for the Guyanese people, there must be no conditions set for doing so.

He said, “We must every time chose to do that thing that

COI. We must not use the occasion as another battlefield in pursuing our polarized ambitions.

SOME OTHER GUYANA The Agriculture Minister questioned, referencing the speeches of the Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs), if the same Guyana is what is being talked about, or

Motor cyclist hospitalised after smash-up in Queeenstown A COLLISION between a motor car and a motor cycle at Irving and Crown Streets, Queenstown, around 19:00hrs

The car involved in the accident on Crown and Irving Street last evening.

last evening left a 17-year-old motor cyclist warded at the Georgetown Public Hospital with a broken leg and injuries

The motor cycle driven by Kevin Panday

if it is some other Guyana.

He said, “I listened attentively and forlornly to all the speeches and were I to go with the story of Guyana that emanates out of these halls, I would think we are speaking of two very different countries.

“When I listen to my colleagues, I hear of a country that is not developing, that is going nowhere, a country that provides no opportunity for success, a country of hopelessness.

“I hear that the construction boom and the economic growth are driven by the drug trade, built with drug money, according to the Honourable Member Desmond Trotman.

“I hear of a country without teachers and other professionals because they have all migrated, at least all the good ones, and only the bad ones are left. “ He acknowledged the challenges, but pointed out that many of these are not unique to Guyana.

“We would be fooling ourselves if I said we didn’t have any problem,” the minister said.

However, he underscored the fact the Guyana is a proud nation, a country that is resilient and a country that has the capacity to overcome our adversities.

“While I see a country confronting problems, I also see a country boldly moving forward in the right direction, moving in a trajectory of development,” the minister said, “We in the PPP/C have always recognised these challenges and we have responded. We recognise vast room for improvement, for expansion and for new approaches in our interventions. The 2014 Budget underlines this reality.

The bigger budget every year is a constant upgrading of our responses, as our resources allow us.”

to his head.

The motor cyclist, identified as Kevin Panday, of 10 Owen Street, Kitty, was proceeding north along Irving Street when, as he was about to cross Crown Street, his motor cycle collided with a silver grey Toyota motor car driven by a female motorist and heading west into Crown Street.

The woman was unhurt, but both the car and motor cycle were badly damaged.

Public spirited persons in the vicinity intervened, picked up the injured man and rushed him to the GPH. His relatives were alerted and they too rushed down to the scene of the accident.

On seeing the broken motor cycle, they feared the worst and headed for the hospital.

The police were later called in and proceeded to investigate.

(Shirley Thomas)

Ramsammy outlined several of the successes Guyana has recorded over the last two decades, more so in the last few years.

He said, “I see a Guyana that is growing, that is emerging as a country that offers us all better lives, more opportunities, that is developing its infrastructure. I see a bustling country where we are trying to take better care of our children and our elderly, where people live in freedom….no matter what you (Opposition MPs) say.

“I see a country that has recorded eight straight years of growth. Never since adult suffrage in 1953 has Guyana been able to sustain this long period of uninterrupted growth.”

The minister reasoned that something must be addressed correctly, in this regard.

“We must be doing something extraordinary because no country in CARICOM or in the Americas has sustained such a long period of uninterrupted positive growth. This is a fact, like us or not. Can’t we acknowledge this as a proud achievement?” he asked.

Ramsammy welcomed the demands for more and better, but stressed that ignoring the successes recorded is not right.

He made it clear that the 2014 Budget Estimates seek to ensure a better Guyana and better lives for all’, building on “direct impacts” of previous and ongoing interventions.”

The minister said, “The 2014 budget estimates are presented at a time when we have clear choices in front of us.

The stark choices before us are either to: promote the welfare and peaceful development of Guyana, or stall our development through misguided actions and obstructionism.

“These are two different and very distinct pathways before us. The PPP/C (People’s Progressive Party/ Civic) embraces the mandate of peaceful development, of progress and prosperity. Peace, progress and prosperity is our destiny.

“Too often in the last 28 months or so, Mr. Speaker, there seems confusion about the choices before us. Some of us think that our mandate in this House is to flex muscles and to score political points, to misrepresent and misinform, even if our country is harmed and our people’s welfare is jeopardised.

When we risk international blacklisting, for instance, we place our country in harm’s way.”

Ramsammy made it clear that as legislators, MPs must protect and promote the interests of the Guyanese people and of our country, promote and accelerate national development, not some times, but every time.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana

Trotman’s decision to publicly admit he overreacted in banning Manickchand should be…

A LESSON FOR THE ENTIRE OPPOSITION TO FOLLOW

OLD Kai is pleased with the move by the Speaker of the National Assembly to rescind his decision to ban PPP/C Member of Parliament, Priya Manickchand from speaking during the budget debates after she heckled, “Ask the APNU member, Sharma” as their MP, Volda Lawerence was addressing the very important issue of rape in society.

As I had contended in my previous column, Priya made no mention of the APNU MP, Jaipaul Sharma, and as she confirmed subsequently, her thoughts were on his father, CN Sharma, who is before the courts on sexual assault charges involving a seven-year-old child at the time of the incident.

CN Sharma’s political party, Justice for All, is part of the APNU makeup. However, it comes as no surprise to Old Kai that Jaipaul Sharma was incapable of making that distinction, or maybe he prefers that this grave issue be swept under the carpet, and anyone who dares mention this be threatened with legal sanctions.

Again, I applaud the stance taken by Manickchand.

From reading her statement on Facebook, I could sense her passion on the issue; she clearly cannot forget the graphic details from the children as they detailed what they allegedly had to endure at the hands of CN Sharma.

I am now imploring that a DNA test be done on the child CN Sharma allegedly fathered with one of the young girls, and if she was underage at the time of her pregnancy, let the chips fall where they may. This is not the first such accusation against the senior Sharma, but in this country, it appears that when one does something wrong, all he/she has to do is run into the clutches of the opposition and they will be protected, and even the most vociferous of media houses that pretend to be independent will treat the issue as taboo.

However, run as you may, one thing is certain: And that is justice will one day catch up with you. I am confident of the ability of our court system, as once the necessary evidence withstands scrutiny beyond a shadow of a doubt, then the law will take its course.

In the meantime, Jaipaul Sharma can threaten and sue whomever he wishes; he now lives in a democratic country, and that is his right. Proving it is an entirely different matter; no one has accused him of anything. Or is it that he has something to hide?

Maybe he can start by telling us about the period he was employed at the Guyana Elections Commission. Can he tell the nation the circumstances that caused him not to be associated with GECOM anymore? He never misses an opportunity to preach about accountability. Well! Here is his chance to explain what exactly transpired!

Meanwhile, Old Kai hopes that this is not the end of the national discussion on rape and/or sexual assaults. I am expecting Ms. Manickchand and other PPP/C leaders to push on with this debate; this can no longer remain a taboo subject.

We expect our leaders to set the tone; we should have a court specially set aside to deal with such matters, so they can be fast-tracked. Specialist assistance should be provided to the police prosecution, as the defendants usually get the highpriced lawyers.

CN Sharma is being represented by no other than AFC Chairman, Nigel Hughes. Each Police Division should have a special office set up, inclusive of staff from the Human Services Ministry, so victims will be assured that when they do turn up, they will be dealt with by professionals and their ordeal will not be ‘the latest village scandal’.

The Humans Services Ministry needs to embark on public sensitisation meetings; workshops alone will not cut it. Let the people in the village hear from their loudspeakers if they

do not want to come out. Some will definitely stick with them. Those who do not know will now know that sexual abuse and domestic violence are serious issues which are being seriously looked at, and that no longer will people remain quiet and abuses go unreported. They will know that consequences will follow from their actions, and who knows how many potential cases would have been avoided.

We cannot wait! The time to act is now! This is not only the job of the Human Services Ministry; all the ministries need to get on board, as should the Private Sector, the opposition, the diplomatic community, NGOs etc.

Rather than try to cut the budget and deprive citizens of social assistance and infrastructural development; rather than running around the country trying to create instability, the opposition should make a positive contribution by spreading this message. It may not be popular; it may not be spicy and scandalous; but it will save lives.

Ms. Manickchand, I also expect this message to be prominent in our schools, including the one where the AFC Region 8 councillor was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a schoolchild.

In closing, I wish to congratulate Speaker Trotman for taking a proactive approach in not silencing a voice speaking out against sexual abuse. These predators continue to thrive because of our silence.

APNU seems to have been upset by Ms. Manickchand speaking out against sexual abuse, and is still pushing for her to apologise; so how can we take them seriously when it occurred at a time when their very own Member of Parliament was speaking of the need for more to be done to tackle the issue of rape and sexual abuse in Guyana. They clearly are not taking themselves seriously, so why should the public at large!

Budget 2014 addresses steps for turn-around of sugar, says Komal Chand …the industry continues to serve our county in a multifaceted way

By Vanessa Narine GOVERNMENT Member of Parliament and Head of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Komal Chand, called on colleague MPs yesterday in the National Assembly not to downplay the contributions the sugar sector plays in the development of Guyana.

And he pointed out that Budget 2014 identifies some of the steps to be taken to address challenges in the sugar sector.

He said, “We should not downplay the fact that even at this time, the industry continues to serve our country in a multifaceted way. …lately we heard of sug-

gestions that the industry should move away from sugar production and venture into other areas, such as ethanol and aquaculture. I share the concerns, but do not agree with the solutions advanced.”

Chand maintained his optimism of a turnaround of the industry.

“It is within our possibilities. Such a feat has been done before,” he said, referring to the period between the late 80s and early 90s, when production dwindled to 154,740 tonnes.

According to him, it was under the current administration, beginning from 1992, that there was an increase in production to 319,587 tonnes – a gradual reversal.

“This industry can do this again, I am certain,” he said.

Chand added that Guyana cannot afford not to recognise the importance of the industry, particularly to the livelihood of thousands.

He said, “We cannot fail to recall that the industry remains an important and intrinsic component of not just our economy, but of Guyana’s social fabric.

“Its development and progress over the last three and a half centuries is largely responsible for thousands of slaves and indentured labourers being brought to our country. For many of their descendants the industry has become their economic lifeline.”

According to him, it is incumbent on members of the National Assembly to continue to actively support the

industry.

Chand said, “The industry has directly provided, through the Sugar Levy, billions of dollars that was channelled into the Consolidated Fund. “(We cannot deny) its role in producing thousands of artisans from its Pourt Mourant Training Centre and the provision of land for housing, among others.

“The Government has shown its supportive hand and I urge that we all do the same.”

He underscored the fact that with good guidance and leadership, sugar remains a viable venture.

On that note, Chand made clear the need for a new Board for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) to be appointed.

KOMAL CHAND

“For those who have a negative view of the industry’s prospects, it is unfortunate. It is still a viable venture,” the Government MP said.

The sugar industry is projected to record an improvement of 15.6 percent in output to 215,910 tonnes and a whopping $6B has been allocated to the sector in the 2014 Budget, given the industry’s important role in national development.

Among the measures to be undertaken to ensure a turnaround of the industry are increased production and lower cost of production, diversified target markets, and expansion of value added production, in order to survive.

In 2013, sugar exports accounted for 8.3 percent of total exports, valued at US$112.2M, and the industry contributed 3.9 percent of the country’s GDP.

10

Debating rice sector…

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

Agriculture Minister, APNU Region 5 MP disagree

By Vanessa Narine

THE rice sector was the focus of the Budget 2014 debate on Wednesday night when A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) Jennifer Wade, representing Region 5(Mahaica/Berbice), disagreed with Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy on some issues.

“There is a crisis in the rice sector. All is not well,” she claimed, calling for an aggressive marketing strategy to cater to the consistently increasing production in the industry.

But Minister Ramsammy pointed out that Government is doing its part to open up new markets.

“As for marketing, in 2008 we exported 196,000 tons. Last year we exported 395,000 tons, almost twice as much. We are doing our part. As a Government we have been opening up new markets even though rice is purely a private sector business,” he pointed out.

Guyana has already commenced shipping to Haiti, which is taking some 60,000 tons, as compared to only 1,000 tons last year.

It began shipments, as well, of 4,000 tons to Belize.

“By any standard, the work we have done to improve our exports is impressive…in the last four years our exports have increased by 100 per cent,” Ramsammy said.

THREE-PRONGED STRATEGY He said his Ministry’s approach to improving access to markets is centred on a three-pronged strategy, increasing the market share in countries that have agreements with Guyana; re-entering old markets where the country once had a meaningful presence; and securing new markets.

Wade told the National Assembly that some $300M is owed to farmers, a statement that was disputed by the Minister.

“Rice is on shaky ground, Government must meet its responsibility; farmers need protection,” the APNU MP stated.

She questioned the presence of a payment plan to support farmers.

“There is no proper plan for the rice sector,” Wade maintained.

However, Ramsammy said:“No farmer is owed for paddy at this time. The Government ensured that all farmers were paid to the tune of $370M. The millers now owe the Government.”

Following meetings with farmers and millers in the rice producing regions, an agreement was struck to have the ministry facilitate

payments to the farmers.

Ramsammy explained that the Ministry is in a position to make the payments because the millers who owe farmers are suppliers to the Venezuelan market and, once shipping to the neighbouring country commences, the monies paid will be recouped.

PAYMENT CHALLENGE The payment challenge was due, in part, to concerns over the stability of Guyana’s rice trade agreement with neighbouring Venezuela, which were put to rest after Minister Ramsammy assured that there are no problems with the market.

The deals with Venezuela were concluded and ships are being arranged to move the rice and paddy from Guyana to that country.

The rice importing authority in Venezuela concluded the purchase orders and shipping schedules to begin shipments last week.

Guyana and Venezuela have agreed on the amounts and price for Guyana’s paddy and rice and, based what was agreed, this country expects to ship close to 200,000 tons at a price that is similar to last year’s.

The Minister added that, as it relates to the prices being paid to farmers, continued engagements with millers resulted in an agreement to pay above $3,000 per bag, a price that was set, initially, due to the delayed conclusion of the Venezuela rice deal, which was impacted in some ways by the ongoing political unrests in the neighbouring nation.

He said:“Price control is not an issue that has much support among our people. But Government is willing to listen to proposals in this regard although it is difficult to only introduce price control for rice.”

Minister Ramsammy emphasised the fact that Guyana is competing with a set world market price and does not have much influence on changing those prices.

RICE VARIETIES The APNU MP also honed in on the work of the Burma Rice Research Station and charged that the new rice varieties being developed to aid in climate change resilience, among other things, are not available to farmers.

“The Government has to recognise the plight of farmers,” she said.

Wade alleged that only some farmers are deriving benefit from

the new varieties.

The Agriculture Minister emphatically rejected that notion, stating that the Research Centre has produced more new varieties in the last five years.

One new variety, GRDB 10 is now used in 35 percent of the fields while other new varieties are utilised in more than 90 percent of them.

“The Research Station has come a long way over the years and its work, coupled with investment and farmers’ input have seen the industry propelling…it is the hope of the Government to continue to work with the Research Station through GRDB to have the station evolve by incorporating new techniques,” Ramsammy said.

He said one of the focal issues in agriculture is climate change and, cognisant of its effects, the developments of new rice varieties are necessary.

Climate change impacts negatively on the availability, stability, access and utilisation of food security and, according to Minister Ramsammy, the development of rice varieties which are blast resistant and have high milling qualities can be not only beneficial to millers and farmers, but the industry as a whole.

“Food security is the most vulnerable and, as such, it is important that we (Government) continue to push for the right varieties of rice to be developed; hence the reasons for pushing for climate smart agriculture,” he said.

Ramsammy said the GRDB has MINISTER DR LESLIE also incorporated the use of the sixRAMSAMMY point practice which has proven successful with farmers across the rice growing regions.

The six improved crop management practices include date of planting, density, treatment of seeds, weed control, fertilisation and water management. Those techniques fall under the Agriculture Ministry’s programme of having farmers adopt proper farm husbandry.

Hastings-Williams points to ‘shortcomings’ in ‘visionary’ budget

By Vanessa Narine A PARTNERSHIP for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) Dawn Hastings-Williams declared, Wednesday night, despite much praise from the Government benches for the “visionary” record-breaking $220B 2014 Budget, it had “shortcomings” in adequately addressing the needs of hinterland areas.

She said: “This 2014 Budget seems to be suffering from a cataract. To my mind, it lacks a clear vision for the development of this country as a whole. “…it could not be a better Guyana for all Guyanese when our brothers and sisters in the remote areas continue to moan about the high cost of living, lack of proper medical and other social services, for example the people at Kamarang, who have been suffering without power supply since July of last year and without water supply for many years. “…we all know that there is a joint agreement between Guyana and Brazil and that information sharing had begun in the Upper Mazaruni last week and I am hoping that the residents do not have to wait until the hydroproject is materialised before they are given power supply. I hope not. I don’t know how many of us would like to live comfortably in such a place.”

In her contribution to the Budget Debate, Hastings-Williams stressed that it is the hinterland that brought people to Guyana (the search for El Dorado), besides sugar and rice.

“It is the golden frog, the Mighty Kaieteur, the gold rush…it is the giant arapaima and all the flora and fauna found in our hinterland that keep the revenues flowing into Guyana…it is our duty to ensure that the Government of the day takes care of the needs of our people in the hinterland, that is Regions 1, 7, 8 and 9,” she posited.

MANY NEEDS The APNU Parliamentarian focused on the many needs, particularly in the social areas like education, health, employment, support for vulnerable children, sports, agriculture, housing and water and energy.

She said:“We continue to experience, as the years come and go and as the National Budget gets bigger year after year, the young in the hinterland continue to be denied equal access to education, over 20 years, as a Government, the PPP/C (People’s Progressive Party/ Civic) has failed to deliver quality education to our hinterland regions. I was hoping that this budget would have sought to improve this situation.”

The MP questioned whether there has been improved quality of lives for Guyanese in the interior locations.

“What direct impact has it had on the hinterland residents?” she asked.

According to her, there are still limited job opportunities for youths in the hinterland who have yet to be afforded the opportunity to access technical vocational training, whereby they can be empowered with appropriate skills to contribute meaningfully to the communities in which they live.

The APNU MP said: “What is happening, however, is that youths from Bartica, youths from a far community as Chinweing have to travel all the way to Georgetown or to Essequibo to acquire a trade or skill at a very high cost which their parents could hardly afford. “…majority of the children who leave Waramadong Secondary School return home year after year, having been successful at one subject or two and having no second chance to equip themselves with technical or vocational skills, find themselves in the gold and diamond fields at a very tender age.”

Hastings-Williams also touched on the National School Feeding Programme, acknowledging its benefits and referring to a related World Bank report on a study undertaken by that lending institution.

Titled ‘Rethinking School Feeding; Social Safety Net, Child Development and the Education Sector’, it established that it was a valuable exercise that captured the most vulnerable in many countries.

Dawn Hastings-Williams

However, she bemoaned the “measly” $175 that is paid per meal, as well as the $1,000 a day to the cooks providing the meals.

The APNU MP said:“The questions that come to my mind are: “Are the monies allocated for this venture adequate…what kind of balanced meal can you provide with $175 in these times to nourish the brain of a child who we expect to become literate and numerate in the end?”

She remarked: “This is what is being offered for a child. Not only that Sir. There are cooks who are being paid $1,000 a day for their cooking and would receive $20,000 for the month out of the same allocations given for the feeding programme.

NEW MATHEMATICS “Now tell me comrades: what kind of new mathematics is this?

These are all testimonies that testify to the continuous neglect of our children in the hinterland.”

Then she exhorted:“Stop neglecting our young people! I say stop making them want to run away from this beautiful Guyana in search for a better place to stay.”

Hastings-Williams also advocated value for money to ensure “real” meaningful development.

To this end, she pointed to the allocations for development in places like Bartica and emphasised the necessity for more; for Bartica to become a township with better roads, adequate water supply, improved street lighting and better banking services.

Hastings-Williams asked:“Is it not time for a child in Phillipai or Arrau or Paruima and Kako to be doing his research on the Internet? When exactly would this Government become serious about developing our rich hinterland? “…we may continue to approve large sums of monies year after year and I believe that it is time we begin to evaluate and examine, as representatives of our people, to see if development is really taking place in our hinterland.”

On the issue of agricultural advances, the APNU MP mentioned the potential for hinterland agriculture to be boosted.

She said:“I have been saying to this House, repeatedly, that there is an agricultural potential in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region. We can have cheap and abundant supply of healthy foods and a rich and diverse regional economy.”

Hastings-Williams acknowledged her recognition of the challenges faced by developing countries but suggested that realistic goals be set to truly achieve ‘A better Guyana for all Guyanese’.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

Gov’t underscores its support for setting up PPC

By Vanessa Narine MINISTER within the Finance Ministry, Juan Edghill, on Wednesday night in the National Assembly, called on his colleagues on the other side of the House to be a “responsible Opposition” and support the allocations that are good, criticise others to make it better and refrain from “dashing” the hope of the Guyanese people.

On that note, he underscored the importance Government places on accountability and transparency, particularly in the area of public procurement and made clear that the Government supports the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC).

“This Government wants the PPC,” Edghill stressed.

However, he noted the current Administration’s position in maintaining its no-objection role, a sore point with the Opposition.

He added that in 2013 some 3,800 contracts were processed by the Tender Board and of these 466 were above the $15m mark, which has to come to Cabinet for a no-objection.

Only five were not given Cabinet’s nod and 24 bidders complained at regional MINISTER JUAN EDGHILL levels - issues that were subsequently addressed administratively and clarified.

“The bids (are) open and transparent…this is no secret thing,” the minister said.

He acknowledged the need to strengthen the public procurement system, amid heckles of “cronyism” and the existence of “cabals” within the process.

CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITY “We are working towards a more aggressive system,” Edghill said, adding that the responsibility is on contractors to possess the requisite technical, human and engineering resources, as well as equipment to undertake the jobs for which they bid.

According to him, the Government is making greater advances to work within a framework where the contractor delivers value for money for the benefit of the Guyanese people.

“We will continue to work with contractors,” he said, “They are partners in Guyana’s development.”

The minister said, sternly, that delinquent contractors will be dealt with accordingly. However, in acknowledging the current Administration’s responsibility in ensuring value for money, Edghill reiterated the necessity for Cabinet to maintain its no-objection role in the public procurement process.

The Procurement (Amendment) Bill 2013 was read a first time in the National Assembly last November and aims to amend the 2003 principal Procurement Act by making changes to Section 54 by deleting Subsection Six, effectively restoring Cabinet’s no-objection role.

Section 54 deals with Cabinet’s involvement in reviewing the award of procurement contracts and the phasing out of its functions with the establishment of a Public Procurement Commission, in the interest of decentralising the procurement process.

Subsection Six states that: “Cabinet’s involvement shall cease upon the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission except in relation to those matters referred to in subsection one which are pending.”

In addition to Government’s move to secure its position, moves have been made at the level of the Public Accounts Committee to address the establishment of the PPC. Without the Procurement (Amendment) Bill 2013, once the PPC is established Cabinet’s no-objection role will no longer be effective.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, at a sitting of the National Assembly, made it clear that the Procurement (Amendment) Bill has to come before the Public Procurement Commission is set up.

The PPC cannot be set up without a two-thirds majority support in the National Assembly.

“This is more than just might is right…this is about facing the people of Guyana,” the minister emphasized.

He called on the Opposition to acknowledge that they owe it to the Guyanese people to do what is right.

“We are here as legislators, as representatives of the people, as the people who have to ultimately decide on the way Guyana will go,” Edghill asserted.

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Dr Shekhar to hold two ‘self-healing’ workshops this weekend

By Clifford Stanley

Dr. BK CHANDRA Shekhar, the inventor of Psycho Neurobics (PN) which is a means of curing bodily illness through meditation and concentration will be holding two workshops on his system over the weekend.

The first workshop will be held at the Umana Yana tomorrow, beginning at 09:00hrs and ending at 17:00hrs. The general public is invited to participate and learn about the method of instant self-healing for a wide variety of diseases, using the technique of PN. There will be a fee of US$25 for the tuition but this will also cover the costs of meals.

The second workshop is to be held at the Regency Suites Hotel on Sunday and the programme is designed for those who want to learn how to teach others to do PN exercises.

This programme also begins at 09:00hrs and ends at 17:00hrs and the cost will be US$50 which will cover the cost of meals to be provided and also go towards helping the organisers to defray costs associated with rental of the venue, Mr Vishnu Bandhu President of the related Interstate Sigfa Health Organisation(ISHO), disclosed.

In a brief exposition on his PN techniques Dr. BK Chandra Shekhar said that many ailments are psychosomatic, meaning that they are caused by mental factors such as stress and anxiety. These include high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and migraine headaches, to name a few.

He said that a person’s mental state can affect how bad a physical disease is at any given time.

Moreover, he noted, the normal reaction of the modern doctor is to treat the symptoms of the disease rather than its root cause of stress and anxiety.

PN gets rid of the psychic pressure of stress and anxiety rather than merely treat the symptoms and thus eliminates the disease.

He said: “All these diseases can be eliminated by tuning your psyche to certain frequencies and by concentration and meditation.”

The practice is also good for those who are not necessarily ill but want to improve their concentration and efficiency in their day to day lives.

Interested persons can contact the organisers of the two weekend workshops on telephone numbers: 2540078 or 6513825.

Additional information on PN and its benefits can also be found on the ISHO website at www.isho.in

West Coast resident credits ‘D’ Division Commander Hicken for professionalism

By Asif Hakim JAYA Junior, 49, of Back Street, Stewartville, West Coast Demerara credits ‘D’ Division Commander, Senior Superintendent Clifton Hicken for the help he has given her as well as the work he has done in the entire Magisterial District.

The woman said that she had an issue with one of her close relatives who had stolen $700,000 from her husband.

He was taken into custody by ranks of Leonora Police Station and subsequently charged.

“The officers handled the matter in a professional way and they treated us very good.

The matter was handled so good they didn’t even harass him nor do him anything bad they just warned him and spoke with him. The money was recovered and given back to us in a timely manner,” the woman related.

“I would like to highlight the type of treatment given to

me and my relatives by officers at the Leonora Station from officers both senior and junior, they were kind, courteous and understandable, because my relative was a minor they even offered advice and counselling to us and shared relevant experience,” she said.

Moreover, the Stewartville resident observed that since Hicken took over “we could sleep with our door open and crime is hardly seen in the area. I don’t know what we will do if they transfer he.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

GRDB, RPA host Farmers Field Day at Hague

Farmers participating in Wednesday’s field day at Hague THE Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), in collaboration with the Guyana Rice Producers’ Association (RPA), last Wednesday, hosted their most recent ‘Farmers Field Day’ exercise.

The purpose was to allow farmers to assess and evaluate the impact of new technologies being introduced into the sector.

Some 50 farmers gathered at West Coast Demerara where they used Ganga Persaud’s farm at Hague Backdams. Those present were from all Guyana’s rice producing regions: Two (Pomeroon/ Supenaam), Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), Four (Demerara/Mahaica), Five (Mahaica/Berbice) and Six (East Berbice/ Corentyne).

Also there on Wednesday was Regional Chairman Julius Faeber, who assured them of support, particularly in the areas of infrastructural advances and increasing access to rice markets.

“We have been working with you and will continue to work with you,” he pledged.

GRDB’s Extension Manager Kuldip Ragnauth told the Guyana Chronicle that the field days have been successful in the move to facilitate an exchange of experiences for advancing the implementation of the much lauded six-point programme.

The six improved crop management practices include date of planting, density, treatment of seeds, weed control, fertilisation and water management. These techniques fall under the Agriculture Ministry’s programme of having farmers adopt proper farm husbandry.(Vanessa Narine)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

Budget Debate…

Ganga Persaud calls for focus on real issues PEOPLE’S Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament (MP) Ganga Persaud, Wednesday night, called for real issues of the day to be the focus of the 2014 Budget Debate in the National Assembly.

According to him, the 2014 Estimates respond to the needs of every sector of society and, given the limitation of resources, the order of the day must be prioritisation.

But he said: “All we are getting from the Opposition is nitpicking…they are searching for problems.”

Further reasoning that,

GANGA PERSAUD

were there no problems, there would be no need for the Opposition when one considers the role to which they have relegated and limited themselves.

The former minister maintained that the 2014 Budget speaks to the well-being of every Guyanese and continues the ruling party’s vision for development and economic advancement.

He added that, if the Opposition had responded to the invitation for consultations, the National Assembly could have avoided the pitfalls in which the Opposition now finds itself.

Post-mortem finds Enmore teen died from asphyxiation

By Asif Hakim THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD Rishi ‘Sanjay’ Ramkisoon of 162 Hope West, Enmore, East Coast Demerara who reportedly committed suicide by hanging died from asphyxiation (suffocation), according to the post mortem performed by Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Speaking with this publication, the teen’s father, Rajnauth Ramkisoon, reiterated that he doesn’t know what really was running through his son’s head, because the incident was a shock and surprise for him.

The man said that Rishi was loved and he was his only son. “I believe is the devil tell him to do it because he is not that type of person who thinks that way. I love my son and I can’t believe he gone,” the father said sadly.

On April 1, the boy’s body was found hanging in his room by his father around 06:30hrs. According to reports, ‘Sanjay’ got up about 06:00hrs and he took off his clothes and threw them outside and went back to sleep.

A relative said that later his father was about to wake him up for school when he discovered that the lad was hanging in his room with a sheet tied to his neck. When neighbours heard his parents screaming they rushed to assist the family in resuscitating the teenager but he was already dead. He was a 2nd Form student of Golden Grove Secondary.

Young Rishi Ramkisoon who took his life by hanging.

Diamond Scheme man denies stealing hardware tools A DIAMOND Housing Scheme man who was charged with stealing a set of hardware tools was granted $75,000 yesterday by Magistrate Faith McGusty.

Parmanand Ishanally of Lot 405 Block X Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the offence that said between March 23 and 24 at Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara, he stole one wheelbarrow, two spades, one length of ¾ inch hose, one spirit level and a quantity of steel rods together valued $77,600, property of Tarachandra Kellawan.

Ishanally said he bought the wheelbarrow, spades and spirit level from someone. He explained to the magistrate that he told an officer he was paid $500 by a man to fetch some steel rods. The defendant declared that “I am guilty of fetching the steel rods but not stealing it.”

He further related to the court that he used to drive a truck in the interior but is unemployed at present after facing some domestic issues. He said he started to ‘smoke’ after he came home a day and caught his wife with a ‘sweet man’.

Police Sergeant Tracy-May Gittens, prosecuting, objected to the pretrial liberty of Ishanally.

She informed the court that there are pending investigations regarding similar charges involving Ishanally and some of the articles were recovered at the home of another man.

Meanwhile, 42 year-old Persaud of Lot 159 Grove Squatting Area was charged with receiving stolen property in the same court.

He pleaded not guilty to the offence that said on March 24 at Grove, he received one wheelbarrow valued $18,000, property of the said Kellawan.

The prosecutor did not object to bail in relation to this defendant, since he has a medical condition. He was placed on $30,000 surety and the cases against both men were transferred to the Providence Magistrate’s Court for May 2.

“The MPs on the other side of the House are out of touch with reality,” Persaud charged.

The MP pointed out, too, that development is a continuous, never ending process and, while talking of what could be done, there is nothing being said about from where the monies would be sourced to undertake and sustain the grandstanding of the combined Opposition.

“There are many measures to improve lives in this Budget,” he contended, as he challenged the Opposition to move themselves from the side of the problem and align themselves with the solution providers, as Guyanese demand and deserve much more from their representatives in the National Assembly.

On that note, Persaud appealed for “full support” to Budget 2014, which was presented last week Monday under the theme ‘A better Guyana for all Guyanese’.

(Vanessa Narine)

Clifton Hicken to head A Division from Monday

By Leroy Smith ON Wednesday, Acting Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud told reporters that by next week, there will be some reposting of senior ranks to the various police divisions across the country.

Persaud made it clear that the reposting of ranks is to ensure that there is proper supervision of the various divisions and other departments of the force.

Yesterday, the Guyana Chronicle was reliably informed that already several senior officers have been informed of their likely new areas of command with effect from the new week.

Topping the list of reshuffling is Senior Superintendent Clifton Hicken who will be asked to give up the command of D Division and to head the very sensitive A Division.

Clifton Hicken will be backed by Superintendent Moore who is presently the Traffic Officer at A Division, while Superintendent Brutus will be moved from B Division where he will head the operations of traffic at A Division.

The other changes are the removal of Assistant Commissioner Winston Cosbert from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to the Police Special Branch, while the present head of that department, Senior Superintendent Leslie James, will take over the operations of the CID. The Felix Austin Police College will have a new administrator in the person of Superintendent Adrian Simon, while Paul Williams will remain the Force Training Officer.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Balram Persaud will remain at the helm of the Force Administration Division, as well as Assistant Commissioner David Ramnarine, who is presently in charge of the Force’s Operations Department.

There are several other changes to take effect from next week.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

Aries March 21 - April 19 Below rates for April 3, 2014 Currency

Buying

Selling

G$/US$ G$/GBP$ G$/CAD$ G$/EURO$ G$/BDOS$ G$/EC$ G$/TT$

205.48500 340.77632 186.61427 282.76791 101.86969 75.45903 31.67984

207.93125 345.04112 188.76729 286.34212 102.89094 76.21551 31.99743

It’s time for you to get up close! That could mean getting together with a sweetheart, a pet or a gang of friends. Whatever happens, it’s definitely a day filled with love and affection from your nearest and dearest. It’s also a prime moment to reach out and touch someone. Is there a special person from your past you haven’t talked to in a while? The odds are good they’re thinking about you right now. Why not give them a call and say hi?

Taurus April 20 - May 20

Weigh in today -- your opinion really counts! Now it’s time to show others how valuable your thoughts are, even if you have to start by valuing them yourself. It doesn’t mean you have to shut anyone down or be disrespectful, of course. If you really respect your own opinion, you should be able to listen to what others have to say. Once it’s your turn, speak up and speak firmly. You’ll make quite an impression.

Gemini May 21 - June 21

Do you feel like a neurotic hamster stuck in its wheel, running as fast as you can only to end up in exactly the same place? Obviously, the most sensible thing for you to do right now is to stop everything and figure out why all this action hasn’t resulted in some forward movement. The answer might be as simple as working smarter (not harder) and getting rid of old habits that make you feel happy but don’t accomplish as much as they should.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

You’ve got an outrageous, often hilarious, sense of humour, and usually everyone loves your jokes -- the more risque, the better. However, just for now, it might be better to keep a lid on your tart tongue and trenchant wit. It all depends on those you’re with -- you need to save it for those who always get the joke. If you’re around authority figures or strangers, why risk any trouble? Your caution will serve you well.

Leo July 23 - August 22 For Friday April 04, 2014 -05:00hrs For Saturday April 05, 2014 -08:30hrs

How long has it been since you and your best friend or mate have sat down and talked about the things that really matter in your lives? The universe is giving you and your loved ones unusual eloquence and thoughtfulness today, so make the most of it. It’s a great time to cut through the chit-chat and speak from the heart, difficult as it may seem. Even if you’re not tackling the biggest issues of life, communication issues are easier and sweeter than they’ve been in a while.

Virgo August 23 - September 22

Those defensive feelings (no matter what they relate to) can become self-fulfilling prophecies -- that is, your tough-cookie stance might result in people starting to throw some tough-cookie attitude your way! Try not to just automatically assume the worst about today’s situation or (especially) people’s intentions. Better yet, if someone does act up, make sure not to take any of it personally? You just might save yourself a whole lot of hassle.

Libra September 23 - October 22

Offer someone some kindness -- a little more than usual -- and you might just be surprised at what they offer back. It’s easy to go through life on the defensive, but if you make an honest gesture from the heart at a time like this, you’re sure to receive an equally honest gesture back. That could mean volunteering or checking in with someone nearby to make sure they’re okay, but don’t waste a moment. Start spreading the love right now!

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

On a day like today, slow and steady wins the race -- especially where business matters are concerned. Usually you can rely on your fierce intuition and your preternatural ability to read people, but right now you’ve got to slow down and really go over the details as carefully and conscientiously as possible. Try to ask a colleague to double-check your work -- they might just catch something that missed even your canny eye.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

You may be tempted to skip ahead to the answers at the back of the book this time, but you know deep down that you’re only cheating yourself that way. You know better than that! If it feels like you’ve got too many options facing you, avoid the temptation to overanalyse and interpret them to death -- just pick one and dive in. No matter what, you’re sure to get to the bottom of it soon.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

It’s time for you to kick back and have some fun. Sure, you’ve got a lot of work to get done first, but once you finish, your perseverance pays off with a ton of fun. Invite your sweetie or some friends you haven’t seen in a while along and enjoy yourselves to the fullest. Remember to let your loved ones know how much you care for them. They don’t hear it enough, even though you feel it often.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18

You might be feeling some weird tugs of low self-esteem right now -- but that’s seriously crazy, so start getting over it right now! Your smarts and talent are pushing you in a new direction, and you’ve got no excuse for not moving. Don’t question whether you really deserve the spot or whether it was a fluke. That’s the spirit of inertia talking, and it’s your worst enemy.

Pisces February 19 - March 20

In order to get other people to respect you, you first have to respect yourself. So tell yourself that you’re worth it -- because you are, whether you fully believe it or not yet. The universe is pushing you toward building your self-esteem right now. Take some concrete action that shows how much you value yourself? Start a new, healthy habit, take a class, say hi to a cute stranger or follow your own path. All this self-appreciation might just lead to really great things.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

Duo charged after police Prisoner remove cocaine, cannabis stabbed from Better Hope house in Camp

By Leroy Smith

TWO men were yesterday placed on $300,000 bail each when they appeared before Magistrate Alex Moore at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court to face narcotics charges after police removed a quantity

of cocaine and cannabis from a Better Hope house.

The men were picked up by the police on Wednesday after the cops got information that the house they were in contained illegal substances. The police swooped down on the lot 10 South Better Hope, East Coast

Demerara property and recovered 41 grams of cocaine and 7 grams of cannabis.

Meanwhile, speaking with the Guyana Chronicle at her home, the mother of one of the men denied that the police ever found any illegal substance in her home.

The home from which the police said the illegal substances were removed

Street jail

By Leroy Smith

DOCTORS at the Georgetown Public Hospital were yesterday afternoon battling to save the life of prison inmate Terry Joseph, 29, who was stabbed to his right chest at the Camp Street Prison.

The Guyana Chronicle has been informed that the man got into an argument with another inmate and he received the stab wound during a fight. Efforts to ascertain what exactly the man is serving time for in the Camp Street jail were futile.

Over the years, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Guyana Prison Service have been venting their concerns over the presence of weapons and other items in the Camp Street jail.

In the past, several prison officers and members of the public were charged and placed before the courts for providing prisoners with prohibited items.

Renrick Alexander, 61, found guilty of murder …jailed for 56 years

By George Barclay A DEMERARA Assize jury yesterday found 61-year old Renwick Alexander guilty of knifing to death his neighbour, Carl Thomas, 35, on November 3, 2010.

And presiding judge Navindra Singh did not impose the death sentence, but sentenced the convict to 56 years imprisonment.

The judge had in mind a sentence of 60 years, but discounted four years, for the time the prisoner was incarcerated.

Defence counsel Mr. Huckumchand had urged the jury to find that his client had acted in self defence and had requested a verdict of not guilty.

But prosecutrix, Mrs. Judith Mursalin who, in her address to the jury, asked them to find that Alexander’s use of the large knife to stab Thomas in the abdomen clearly showed that he had the intention to kill or cause grievous bodily harm.

The prosecutrix analyzed the evidence to satisfy the jury that the prosecution had proven its case against the accused.

And she cited the Bible by quoting Exodus 20:13, which say: “Thou shall not kill”.

The judge had included the question of provocation and manslaughter in his summing up, but the jury was unanimous in their verdict of murder.

The star witness for the prosecution was Lear Porter, the brother of the deceased Carl Thomas, nicknamed ‘Dag’ or ‘Dog’.

Thomas was also called a ‘Junkie’.

Testifying about what happened on the day in question, Porter had said to the jury, “I remember Wednesday November 03, 2010.

My brother, Carl Thomas was at my shop laughing and talking.

Around 6:00p.m. I went in my shop and I heard a loud argument.

“Renwick Alexander rolled up on a bicycle and started calling my brother Carl Thomas ‘a cross’. My brother told him he is a bigger cross. My brother came in the shop whilst arguing and went out back. As he was passing, Renwick Alexander pulled a knife from his waist and stabbed my brother in the chest.”

The 61-year-old murderer took the 56 years sentence calmly.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

---In inaugural speech

Karen Cumming filled with ‘iron

By Vanessa Narine

From left, Canadian High Commissioner Dr. Nicole Giles, President Donald Ramotar and former Canadian Supreme Court Judge Claire L’Heureux-Dubé

Karen Cummings in Parliament yesterday

President Donald Ramotar meets former Canadian Supreme Court Judge Claire L’Heureux-Dubé, accompanied by Canadian High Commissioner Dr. Nicole Giles

Former Canadian Supreme Court judge pays courtesy call on President

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar received a courtesy visit on Wednesday from former Canadian Supreme Court Judge Claire L’Heureux-Dubé as part of her five-day visit to Guyana.

Accompanied by Canadian High Commissioner Dr. Nicole Giles, the eminent law official said that her meeting with the president was “extraordinary”, as they managed to exchange ideas that were interesting for both countries.

The official is participating in the Judges Colloquium, organised locally by the Ministry of Legal Affairs. This event seeks to have legal luminaries from various countries exchange ideas and experiences as they examine ways in which to improve the dispensation of justice and the legal system in their respective countries.

Ms L’Heureux-Dubé was appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada in 1987, after serving for 14 years as a trial and appellate court judge. Her 50-year career in law is one marked by many achievements in family law and human rights issues. She has undertaken many roles in the legal profession as an advocate for equality and proponent for the fair administration of justice.

The former judge is an executive and trustee member of the Equal Rights Trust, an independent international organisation whose purpose is to combat discrimination and promote equality as a fundamental human right and a basic principle of social justice. Established as an advocacy organisation, resource centre and a think tank, it focuses on the complex relationship among different types of discrimination and developing strategies for translating the principles of equality into practice.(GINA)

A PARTNERSHIP for National Unity’s (APNU) most recent addition to the National Assembly, Karen Cummings, delivered her maiden speech yesterday as she honed in on the health sector, lambasting the 2014 Budget as being filled with “ironies and eye water” as opposed to addressing real needs.

She said, “The APNU Party will not be easily led, flattered, bribed or terrified by such moves, but will analyse the budget 2014 rationally and carefully, and offer constructive criticisms and the necessary recommendations in order to move Guyana forward. “…I staggered from what I saw and was bewildered by what

Government criticised over Hugo Chavez Centre for Rehabilitation THE Hugo Chavez Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration, at Onverwagt West Coast Berbice, which was commissioned on August 10, 2013, featured among the criticisms levelled against the Government in Parliament on Wednesday night.

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) and representative of Region 5(Mahaica/Berbice) Jennifer Wade charged that the needs of one of the most vulnerable groups are being ignored by the Government as the facility remains unoccupied.

It was expected to begin accommodating homeless persons by the end of August 2013 and cater for 100 males and 80 females.

At the opening ceremony, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Mr. Patrick Findlay said a careful selection process was being undertaken, involving a close examination of the mental state of the possible occupants that are to be housed there.

“Nothing is happening,” Wade claimed.

HUGO CHAVEZ

HOMELESS PERSONS In February, this year, Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster said 80 homeless persons had already been identified and evaluated by the Ministry to take up residence there.

However, Wade bemoaned the fact that it is now the beginning of April and the urgent needs of the “poor people” are still to be addressed.

The Hugo Chavez Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration, constructed with US$2M funding from Venezuela, has recreational, medical, kitchen, conference room, training and dining facilities.

A section of the land space is dedicated, as well, to meaningful occupation by residents for agriculture practices.

The project was commissioned five months after the death of Venezuela’s President Hugo Chavez, in whose honour it was named.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

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gs says Budget 2014 nies’ and ‘eye-water’ I heard…I can only say that the Government’s budget 2014 is full of ironies and eye-water.

“The ironies Mr. Speaker, puts the country in a state of anxiety and the eye-water Mr. Speaker, exposes the Government’s callousness.”

According to her, the Government boasts of surpluses and savings, but leaves the masses and working poor in a state of dispossession and the jobless poor in bewilderment and hopelessness – evidence of the said ironies.

“Development is a many sided process, therefore, it does not only involve an increase in material wealth but must include the general welfare of the citizenry,” she stressed.

Cummings added that the ev-

idence given indicated that “Government’s mathematics have gone south” of nation building.

She said, “Government’s leadership morality is sour to good governance, which embraces accountability, transparency, disclosure and redress.

“The government has not a single clue that the wealth of any nation is rooted in the health and well-being of its people….nation building appears to be calculated and measured on which ministry gets what and which supporter gets how much.

The health care sector, under the purview of the subject Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran,

is in need of “rescue and recovery”, according to Cummings, as she outlined several areas of shortcomings.

She said, “Nowhere in the 2014 budget is provision made for improvement in the socio-economic status of the healthcare provider. “…there are no provisions that look at how to recruit more nurses, additional burden will be placed on the already drained and depleted nursing staff as a result of this expansion of service delivery. “…neonatal mortality is still a critical issue. “…the Budget 2014 has also not addressed the numerous cases of early childhood and teenage sex molestation

The accidents of yesterday should inform application of the five ‘C’s today SEVERAL accidents occurred around the city Wednesday. There was a fatality in Queenstown; a three-vehicle accident at the corner of North Road and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive in Bourda, and a not-so-serious accident in West Ruimveldt.

In this photo, PLL 6342 narrowly escaped this intruding power pole, but settled for the lesser evil of nestling at the edge of a trench in West Ruimveldt.

Back on track.

Snugly nestled at the water’s edge.

which health care workers are asked to examine weekly or monthly, especially those who have teenage children. “…adequate provision was not made for the young doctors; as they are being deployed and being made to work and function at facilities and health centres which promote a breach of patient privacy and confidentiality as working space is inadequate and supportive supervision is not encouraged.”

Cummings also called for the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) to address the concerns regarding the government’s sourcing of supplies from the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (New GPC).

The APNU MP added that Budget 2014 seeks to have the Opposition “embrace the achievement of financial goals, by clandestinely forbidding and disallowing the Guyanese people” the opportunity to identity what she dubbed “wasteful” expenditures.

Fallen electrical Pole

Fallen GPL utility pole stalls traffic on Main Street

A FALLEN power pole, yesterday, caused the traffic on Main Street, Georgetown to come to a halt, while sparks were seen coming from the exposed live wires.

The Guyana Fire Service was first on the scene and did a great job in cordoning off the area so there was no immediate danger to persons nearby. (Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

This week, my darlings, we are going to simmer things down a bit; but mind you.... That doesn’t mean that we would be tampering with our customary ‘electric flavour’ of the Bombshell. Instead, we are just unleashing our creativity, which guarantees ultimate readers’ satisfaction every week, as Telephone Contact: 227 5216 or 616 0301 usual...... Do enjoy four pages of real good stuff

The hunt has begun, and HJ is asking…

Could you be the Next Miss Guyana Jamzone International Queen?

m Ja s a es an B uy icia G l s A is 3, M 01 2

zo

ne

HITS AND JAMS Entertainment has commenced its drive to find the most suited Guyanese woman to take on the quest of being the nation’s beauty ambassador to contest the Miss Jamzone International crown.

Last year, Alicia Bess was selected from a lineup of three, and she did Guyana proud in placing as first runner-up, but she was not strong enough to keep the crown in Guyana against the bevy from around the Caribbean.

Sources from the HJ Camp say they are searching yet again for the ideal lady who could finally seal the deal for Guyana to get its hold of the crown and the title. The ideal candidate must possess extraordinary charm and beauty, and must have a good head on her shoulders to represent Guyana against the best from around the Caribbean in the upcoming Miss Jamzone International Pageant.

This year’s quest has started early, and is open to interested hopefuls aged between 18 and 25 years old. The international pageant is slated to be held sometime in August at the National Cultural Centre.

Thus far, Jamaica has won the title twice, and so has Trinidad. Whoever is successful at this present quest will take on international delegates for a chance to own the coveted crown and the lucrative prize of US$10,000.

Guyana has hitherto presented Misses Nikita Archer, Ayanna Harris Alicia bess and Jovan Wilson to contest for the crown, but each has had limited success. Entry forms for the new hopefuls can be uplifted from the Hits and Jams Headquarters at Lance Gibbs Street in Queenstown, Georgetown; or can be downloaded from www.hitsandjamsentertainment.com.

Guyana’s Diamond Girl, Katherina Roshana, continues to sparkle just the way we like it.

Katherina Roshana is a special guest at Miss India French Guiana WITH HER REIGN as Miss Guyana India 2013 nearing an end, Guyana’s ‘Diamond Girl’, Katherina Roshana, is preparing to say her goodbyes in fine style, as she has been carded as a special guest on the immaculate listing of invitees for the 2014 Miss India French Guyana pageant.

With the pageant slated for Saturday, April 05, 2014, Katherina winged out yesterday (April 03, 2014) with her chaperone, Apsara’s Chandini Rambalack, who is also a special invitee to the function.

PAGEANT HISTORY Miss India Worldwide is a beauty pageant for Asian-Indian communities from all over the world. It was started in 1990, and the current Miss India Worldwide is Nehal Bhogaita from the United Kingdom.

The IFC is a pioneer organization in conducting Indian pageants and fashion shows in the USA and worldwide. The committee has also been conducting the Miss India New York and the Miss India USA pageants annually since 1980.

In 1990, Mr. Dharmatma Saran, Chairman and Founder of the IFC, decided to take the pageant one step further to an international level by started The First Miss India Worldwide pageant. For the first time ever, Asian-Indian communities from all over the world came together in New York for this event. The pageant was an instant success, and was acclaimed as “the most glamorous Indian function in the world.”

The promoters had this to say: “To the best of our knowledge, no other ethnic organization has ever conducted a pageant of this magnitude on an international level.

“In line with other prestigious international pageants, we have also started staging Miss India Worldwide in various parts of the world. In 1997, the pageant was organized in Bombay to salute India on its 50th anniversary of independence. In the year 1998, the pageant was organized, in association with UTV International, in the exotic and beautiful city of Singapore.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

19

JAH CURE

SEAN PAUL

KI

HJTV/Mc Neal Enterprises Easter Fiesta will be the real deal

THE BUZZ of Easter festivity is in the air, and in all the streets and byways its significance is mirrored to the highest.

Already, the colourful array of kites in all types and shapes has begun to fill the city, and those aiming for big sales are on the move peddling their Easter goodies.

But wait a minute, folks: Have you forgotten the most important happenings for Easter 2014? I certainly don’t hope so! Because if you do, you would be missing out on one of the biggest entertainment concerts ever to be hosted by the new ‘entertainment giants’ HJTV and Mc Neal Enterprises.

Come on folks, what are you waiting for? I sincerely hope that by now you dons and divas have sorted out your best outfits, or have already cashed in on the provocative Easter pieces I am seeing around town. You certainly don’t want to look shabby while your

‘fashion rivals’ are donning the ‘hottest of the hottest’ in designer brands.

Well, if you have already sorted yourselves out, then it’s time to save up bountiful cash and set aside your lasting cosmetic fragrances so that you can be a ‘hit number’ this Easter Sunday, (April 20, 2014) Coming to you compliments of the promoters is the ‘Easter Fiesta’ party fans have been hoping for. On this date, the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara will burst asunder with great jubilation as dancehall sensation ‘Sean Paul’, reggae superstar ‘Jah Cure’ and 2014 International Chutney Monarch KI take centre stage. And to spice things up even more, the JMC 3 Veni Band out of Trinidad will be “in dah house!”

Man! Talk about top notch entertainment...

Thumbs up to the promoters, they are certainly ensuring they keep their fans rocking!!!

Since last year, the HJTV/Mc Neal Enterprises collaboration has been proving its worth with the hosting of several mega-shows that have created quite an impact on Guyanese. From riveting shows that featured Lover Boys ‘R Kelly, ‘John Legend’ and reggae phenomena ‘Morgan Heritage and Beres Hammond, the duo continues to shine as the best in local entertainment initiatives.

Well, let me see darlings…. You still have a little time left to do your shopping and saving. Next week we will certainly fill you in on ticket prices and locations. But what we can guarantee for sure is that this show is going to be the ‘real deal’, and you will definitely get your money’s worth in entertainment.

The search is on for Miss India Guyana 2014 representative!!

Alana Seebaran created history when she won the Miss India Worldwide Pageant in 2012

AFTER AN HISTORIC WIN in 2012 at the Miss Indian Worldwide Pageant, where Guyana’s delightful Ms Alana Seebarran took top honours, Coordinator and franchise holder of the Guyana leg, Ms Chandini Rambalack, is yet again poised and ready to bring home another prestigious crown and title to Guyana.

With plans in the making for the hosting of a ‘selection’ for this year’s ambassador to the pageant, Ms Rambalack will, of course, be short-listing that special girl, who must possess prior pageant experience and that rare attribute that allows for ‘easy training’.

Ms. Rambalack wishes to advise that, due to time constraints, neither pageant nor auditions will be hosted, but the final delegate will be selected by a panel of most distinguished and pageant-oriented judges.

Ms Rambalack is also the driving force behind the successes of the talented Apsara Dance Troupe, which has chalked up notable points on both local and international entertainment charts over the years.

To date, she has trained five previous contestants for this event, which has also seen Miss Katherina Roshana carting off the prize for the Best Skin in the 2013 leg of the competition. All other contestants have brought home prestigious awards.

Interested individuals are urged to send their names, contact numbers and other relevant particulars to email address aspara_guyana@yahoo.com.

Miss India Guyana 2013, Katherina Roshana, and Franchise Holder Chandini Rambalack

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Flashback!!!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

HRC Bodybuilding Ms Figure, Ms Bikini contests were towering successes

The male competitors as they battled for the HRC Overall Title

2014 Chutney Soca King to perform at ‘Club Next’ THE SOPHISTICATED and ‘top notch’ Club Next (inside the Princess International Hotel) is rapidly becoming the ‘next big thing’ in terms of hosting impressive parties.

And to hitch things up a bit higher for the Easter festivities, management will be bringing to the venue the much-celebrated 2014 International Soca Chutney Monarch ‘KI’, who is rearing to unleash ‘chutney soca hellfire’ inside the club for patrons.

Fans can be assured that the vibes will be ‘boombastic’ as the Chutney King is poised to deliver an act that will reverberate for miles around.

The volcano will explode inside the nightclub on Saturday, April 05, 2014, which of course is tomorrow night, folks. So make sure you take out your hottest outfits and get down to Club Next, where the party rocks every time!!!

Tickets are being sold at $2500., but I strongly suggest you purchase yours now, since the entrance fee will be hiked at the door. The doors will be open at 10pm sharp, and the promoters wish to advise that booths are indeed limited. Of course fans can always call telephone number 674-7516 for more information.

2014 Chutney Soca King, ‘KI’, will ‘tear up de place tomorrow nite’

I NEVER IMAGINED the National Cultural Centre could be engulfed by such raging flames of emotion, and I never wanted that to happen. I mean, come on folks, that structure is certainly amongst our top notch positives in society, and is the haven for rich and healthy entertainment for Guyanese.

Well, last Sunday, March 30, raging flames of scorching sensuality engulfed the structure when Bodybuilding icon Hugh Ross hosted the 2014 Hugh Ross Classic Bodybuilding, Ms Figure, and Ms Bikini competitions there.

And the patrons certainly had their fill, their erotic appetites being perfectly appeased after witnessing the night’s showcase.

The event served up mind-boggling portions of chiselled bodies, rippled torsos, toned calves, luscious hips, and show-stopper stomachs.

Some of the sexiest males and females to be seen on the local shores vied for top honours in the various categories of the competition.

The sight of these heart-stopping dons and divas on stage must have certainly sent the adrenaline pumping for many in the audience, or ignited other sensations I had better not mention. Nonetheless, the show was an electrifying masterpiece, and Bombshell applauds the organisers for the efforts put into successful staging of these contests.

This photographic we feature here will tell the story to those lazy persons who never make the effort to attend anything. This is just a sampling of what you missed out on folks.

Bombshell’s Hottest Babes…

Onica Hinckson: a veritable heavyweight on the fashion runway THE SASSY Libra-born Onica Hinckson is a new face in the fashion arena; but, trust me folks, she has left quite a few broiling in anger and getting green with envy around the gills.

This twenty-year-old ‘shook up the place’ when she invaded the scene at this year’s Guyana Fashion Week runway events. She may not yet be a household face, or may not have secured any pageantry queen’s title to her belt as yet, but she is definitely headed there.

In the world of fashion, where the divas ‘bitch’ at any sign of competition, Onica is more than ready to defend her territory. So let me sound a warning to the seasoned faces: You have made your name and secured your claim to fame, but I suggest you move over; a new damsel is here to bring you to shame…. Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Haaa!….”

Our dear, sweet Onica enjoys singing, dancing and modeling; and she possesses a passion for venturing on the adventurous side.

This hottie is already a certified makeup artist, and raves that her wildest fantasy is to represent Guyana on the international fashion catwalk.

Yes, you warped-minded men, I know you were hoping she would have mouthed something to your dark, sinister, erotic likings. And don’t you dare ask for a number.

Just do your usual window shopping and move on.

But guess what!? Our babe next week would be ‘flipping it up’, since she is very available and searching for Mr Right.

So sorry for now, dudes; do try again…

Now, my dear ladies, if you think you have what it takes to be featured as the Bombshell Babe, then email your name, contact number, hobbies, and real hot photos to runwaydiva723@gmail.com Of course you can also contact Alex Wayne on phone Onica loves to experiment in number 616-0301 or 227-5216. the different genres of fashion.

ISN’T SHE HOT, GUYS?

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 4, 2014

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Bartica Regatta 2014 slated to be dynamic show

Parents and babies pose after receiving their hampers from DSL representatives Komal Bisram (left) and Nirvani Bhairopersad (right) at Duke Lodge in Kingston

GEM announces winners of ‘Cutest Baby’ contest, prizes given

THE GEM MAGAZINE’s 10th anniversary ‘Cutest Baby Contest’ winners were announced recently in a press release. The contest which commenced on March 3, 2014, ended on March 14, after the 10 finalists were placed on the magazine’s Facebook page to see which baby would garner the most likes.

The contest was held in collaboration with ANSA McAL Limited, Geddes Grant and Distribution Services Ltd (DSL) under their baby brands’ Pampers, Huggies and Johnson respectively, had received submissions from over 100 newborns to 18-month-old infants.

The top three finishers receiving pampers’ gifts on March 20 were Brandon Xavier Hercules from Mahaica, with 10 out of 10 votes and 1,308 Facebook likes; Javier Singh from Good Hope, with 9 out of 10 votes and 948 Facebook likes; Kattleya Grant from Georgetown, with 8 out of 10 votes and 809 Facebook likes. She collected a Huggies hamper, compliments of T. Geddes Grant Guyana Ltd. The top ten selected babies each received an additional hamper from Johnson’s Baby Products at Duke Lodge on March 21.

GEM magazine has promised to feature all the babies who participated in the contest in a special spread in its April/May edition. This issue of the magazine will also include more presentation pictures and information about the babies.

In the release, GEM also thanked all the parents for participating, the sponsors for their gifts, and Duke Lodge for making its facility in Kingston available for the presentations. In addition, the magazine extended its appreciation to Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, hotspotgy.com and gtvibes.com, and to its Facebook fans and followers for helping to make the contest an exciting experience.

Issue 62 of the magazine will be on the newsstands by the middle of April 2014.

The ladies soliciting corner…

Daniel Stephens brings loving arms and a lifetime of happiness NOW, MY LADIES, I know every Friday you come to my pages looking for the next available male catch, and from your responses I know that I have been able to satisfy your molten desires.

But mind you dears, every now and then we have to step aside from the rippled, dashing men who set your souls on fire, and of course make room for the true at heart, who are sincerely searching for real love and that woman whose interests lie in caring, and not only flaunting her God-given assets.

With pride, we present this week a man who best describes himself as being down-to-earth, simple, ‘true to the bone’, and blessed with loving arms and infinite happiness.

Daniel Stephens, 29, is self-employed, and desires the company of an ambitious woman who is more focused on building a life, and not breaking his heart. Daniel ‘works out’ regularly, enjoys listening to music, interacting, and taking quiet strolls on moonlit beaches.

He raves that his arms are made only to give comfort and security to the woman of his dreams, and declares he would bestow on her a lifetime of happiness.

May I warn the roving female vultures that this man would not react nicely once he finds out you are a gold digger or are just there for the fun of life? “Suh if yuh know what good fuh yuh, stay in yuh carnah”.

But if you are looking for a man of his likeness, then call him on phone number 689-9227. He is waiting, girls. Ooops… just in case you are wondering what he is doing with a female handbag around his shoulder, let me inform that the love of his life left him standing with that handbag and disappeared forever when he objected to Daniel is looking for her carefree and chaotic lifestyle. real love, ladies…

THE BARTICA Regatta Committee is finalizing all arrangements for the successful hosting of Bartica Regatta 2014, which commences on April 14, 2014.

The seven-day event kicks off with the annual football tournament on April 14. This will see eight teams competing for the right to own the coveted title. Four of the teams are from Bartica, while the other four have been invited to participate in the tournament.

The final is set for April 19 at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, and this will be followed by an after-tournament concert featuring the Heatwave Band and other local performers. Showtime is 19:00hrs.

On April 18, Christians will be given a chance to participate in the third annual Gospel Fest, titled “The best is yet to come”. The concert will feature Barbadian gospel artiste Hoszia Hinds, along with dynamic locals Kester D; Solid Youth; Anil Azeez and the E-Praise Band, along with many others. The event is set for the Bartica Community Centre Ground, and will commence at 19:00hrs. Tickets for the event cost $1,000.

On Easter Sunday, all attention will be focused on the power boat racing during the day; and afterwards, there will be the Annual Bartica Regatta Pageant, slated for 20:00hrs at the Bartica Community Centre Ground. The pageant will see nine delegates from Bartica competing for the-most-talked-about title.

The delegates are expected to be sashed on April 6 in Bartica. Admission to the pageant cost $2,000.

The action continues on Monday, day two of the power boat racing, and will be followed by a Regatta Washdown at the Golden Beach Resort.

Admission to the power boat racing is $1,000 for adults and $500 for children.

On the same day, there will be a children’s fun day at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, featuring several cartoon characters, including Dora, Diego, and others.

The Fun of Fun children’s party line of Miss Bartica Regatta 2013, Faydeha clothing will also be featured.

King

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Racing Tips ENGLISH Leicester 08:50 hrs Bousatet 09:20 hrs Burtonwood 09:55 hrs Robynelle 10:30 hrs Canyari 11:05 hrs Alex Vino 11:40 hrs Shasta Daisy 12:15 hrs Jaladee AINTREE 09:00 hrs Josses Hill 09:30 hrs Wonderful Charm 10:05 hrs Module 10:40 hrs Ma Filleule 11:15 hrs Seeyouatmidnight 11:50 hrs Caid Du Berlais 12:25 hrs Tara Mist SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Fairview 08:40 hrs King Of Indians 09:15 hrs Shingwedzi 09:50 hrs Frederick Fox 10:30 hrs Red Silvano 11:05 hrs National Forest IRISH RACING TIPS Dundalk 13:15 hrs Not Really 13:45 hrs Strategic Heightts 14:15 hrs Boughtforasong 14:45 hrs Bosstime 15:15 hrs Captain Cullen 15:45 hrs Shabrta Emperor 16:15 hrs Miss Mitigate AMERICAN RACING TIPS Aqueduct Race 1 Privatize Race 2 Violet Hour Race 3 Salutos Amigos Race 4 Readthesmokesign Race 5 Tech Fall Race 6 Texas Two Step Race 7 Fame and Fortune Race 8 Dowager Race 9 My Lucky Lieu