Guyana chronicle 16 04 14

GUYANA No. 103800

WEDNESDAY APRIL 16, 2014

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

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Opposition cuts funds to GINA and NCN a third consecutive year Pages 3&10

––CDC also hit

Heavy Police 8 presence saves the day

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––As APNU mob disrupts peaceful Amerindian demonstration

President reaches out to Chilean colleague

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- on tragic loss of lives in Valparaiso fire

Amerindians declare ...

‘GROSS DISRESPECT!’: Boasting that their party ‘run things’, a handful of supporters of the main Opposition APNU yesterday exhibited a callous disregard and gross disrespect to the sensibilities of thousands of Guyanese who are left on the breadline as a result of their party’s draconian cuts to key sectors in the 2014 budget. In fact, so obnoxious were their behaviour outside Public Buildings, that they seem to be drunk with arrogance as they reveled at the Opposition-led cuts, at the expense of the suffering of ordinary, hardworking Guyanese. (Adrian Narine photos)

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GIVE US BACK OUR FUNDS!!

Major fire averted at NA prison

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Amerindians declare ...

GIVE US BACK OUR FUNDS!!

THE political opposition’s cut of funding to the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs’ $1.1B Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) will result in serious setbacks to the developmental plans for hinterland communities across Guyana.

The money was slated for Presidential grants, eco-tourism projects, secure livelihood programmes, the purchase of agricultural tools and equipment, and for the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship programme, amongst other things.

Having heard of the cut to the ADF allocations, Amerindian leaders and villagers arrived in their hundreds to express their displeasure, and demand the reinstatement of the money that has been cut.

DERRICK JOHN, CHAIRMAN, NATIONAL TOSHAOS COUNCIL: “We are angry, we are desperate, and we are disappointed because of the brutal axing of our budget which was allocated to us. The opposition has denied us our future. There are a lot of young people who

DERRICK JOHN

have been denied employment; our communities need government subventions, and this year’s budget.

“We see this as unjustified action of the combined opposition, and we are totally against it; and we are out here to make our voices heard. We need and we demand respect.

“As Guyanese, we have to be treated as Guyanese. We are the first people of this land, and I’m totally against and totally disappointed with what they have done to us.

“We have indigenous representatives who sit on the opposition bench, and they have betrayed their brothers and sisters.”

SHIANNA FRANCIS, CSO, KARABURI, REGION ONE: “They clearly show us that we are nobody; that we are low.

They’re not interested in our development. I am very angry at those politicians and Parliamentarians who sat there and said “No” to our Budget...

“I know some of them; clearly, they’re Amerindians SHIANNA FRANCIS -- their brothers, their mothers, their sisters, their children, their husbands. And they could say “No” to our development? I’m so ashamed of them! I am saying that I don’t want to see them in our community!”

OWEN BOWLING, TOSHAO, MURITARO, REGION TEN: “The Budget cut really affected my community, because we

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014 had our development plans. We had our plans that could have benefited the community, but seeing that it was cut, our vision has gone.

“You know, our plans have gone to zero! The message that I want to send to the opposition is let them have love for human beings and not love for power. They must have the power of love.”

BASIL FERNANDES, CHAIRMAN OF AGATASH, REGION SEVEN: “The Budget cut is affecting my community very seriously, because we have so many things in mind. We got a lot of programmes that we have already set; we’re working on some programmes that we have already achieved under this present Government, and with the help of this Government.

“Now that this Budget has been cut in this direction, all of the plans that we had have been ruined. We don’t have proper water in our community, and we need these things; and the message that I want to send to the opposition and the Opposition Leader is that I think he BASIL FERNANDES is doing us an injustice. When he stated that the Community Support Officers (CSO) are collecting money, and it’s being wasted by giving them, I think he should look at it from another angle; because these people are working, and I can say it for my community, and most all of the others. These people are working for their money. If they don’t work, I would not sign any work paper for anyone who is not doing so.”

YOGI SOOKRAM, CSO, KAMARANG, REGION SEVEN: “As long as the Budget cut, it’s like the whole country at a standstill; because if the money isn’t there, it’s like you can’t get any development.

“If the opposition is going to fight, and they cut the budget, then there will be no development; Amerindians will suffer, and the whole country See page 8

YOGI SOOKRAM

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

GINA and NCN subventions targeted a third consecutive year

By Vanessa Narine

THE Office of the President (OP)’s $6.1B allocation was partially approved last evening, with the $5.2B for capital and current expenditures under the OP’s Administrative Services heading being totally disapproved by the combined Opposition.

The disapproval was premised on contentions over the $139M subvention for the Government Information Agency (GINA) and the $81M for the National Communications Network (NCN), both agencies having been subject to hours-long scrutiny in the Parliamentary Committee of Supply.

Minister within the Finance Ministry, Juan Edghill, outlined the particulars of the areas of spending for 2014, and noted that GINA employs 39 persons, while NCN’s staff strength is 177, with 59 being temporary staff.

The Alliance for Change (AFC)’s Cathy Hughes questioned the verification of spending and the completion of audited reports.

Edghill made the point that while the financial statements up to the end of 2013 were presented to the Auditor-General’s office, the audited reports are only complete up to 2007, with the 2008 report being currently addressed.

Where the NCN was concerned, he said, the last audited report was done in 2012, while the 2013 report is presently engaging the attention of the Auditor General.

The AFC’s Moses Nagamootoo querried the “bundling” of the allocations for GINA and NCN, given that the Government is aware of the concerns of the combined

––Office of the President’s allocation approved, in part

Opposition, as it relates to the granting of subventions to the agencies at reference.

Edghill made it clear that Budget 2014 is presented in the same manner as previous budgets.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr Anil Nandlall In 2012 and 2013, the Committee of Supply, which reviews in detail the allocation in the national Budget, cut the allocation to GINA and NCN to $1.

RESTORATION OF MONIES A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP), Christopher Jones, questioned the 2013 spending for both entities, $135M for GINA and $81M for NCN, despite the cut made by the National Assembly, which has the “constitutional” power to do so.

Edghill explained that the funding was restored in 2013, following the ruling of Acting Chief Justice, Ian Chang. “We relied on the Chief Justice’s ruling,” he said.

Chang ruled that the National Assembly has no right to cut the national budget.

The Chief Justice handed down his decision in the High Court on January 29.

In the Preliminary Ruling given in June 2012, the CJ had ruled that the National Assembly had a role to either approve or disapprove of the National Estimate, not to cut them.

CONSTITUTIONAL RESTORATION The Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, also commented on the restoration of the allocations for GINA and NCN, and stressed that it was done constitutionally.

His comments followed questioning from APNU’s Shadow Finance Minister, Carl Greenidge, who maintained that monies should not be expended without the approval of the National Assembly.

According to Nandlall, the restoration of the monies was done via a Statement of Excess, which was presented to the House last December in accordance with Section 218 of the Constitution, which regards the Consolidated Fund.

He stated that the Section at reference deals with the financial situation after the Budget has been passed,

something the House is long past, and its provisions are clear.

Greenidge had previously said, in the National Assembly, that the requirements for

Junior Finance Minister, Mr Juan Edghill use from the Contingency Fund have to be “urgent, unavoidable and unforeseen,” which criteria, as stated in Section 222 of the Constitution, were not met.

H o w e v e r, t h e A t t o rney-General maintained his position when this concern was raised, which was that the Statement of Excess addresses spending from the Consolidated Fund, and not the Contingency Fund.

“This statement has been presented to the House, addressing restoration of cuts,” Nandlall said.

NO DEBATE

Sensing the mood of MPs of both sides of the House to descend into a debate on the subventions to GINA and NCN, Speaker of House, Raphael Trotman made it abundantly clear that he will not entertain a debate on the matter. “The Committee either approves or disapproves of the sums,” he said.

APNU MP, Basil Williams rose to stress that there is no provision in the Constitution that allows the Executive to breach a decision of the National Assembly. But though the Speaker conceded thatWilliams did have a point there, he held out that he will not countenance any debate on the matter.

Last Wednesday, the Speaker outlined several guidelines on procedures to be adopted by the National Assembly in proposing amendments to Budget 2014 in light of the CJ’s ruling, which he stressed must be respected.

“Every effort will be made always to respect the High Court’s opinions, provided that the independence of the National Assembly is not impinged,” Trotman said, adding: “...it is critical to note that when the Committee of Supply considers the Es-

timates and ‘approves’ of them whether after making ‘amendments’, that is, through the process of proposing reductions of line items in accordance with Standing Order 76, or by the process of not-approvals of line items, or not, this function neither equates to, nor constitutes, the ‘approval’ function required by the Constitution in Article 218.”

The Speaker made it clear that the functions of the Committee of Supply and the National Assembly, as against those of the Minister of Finance, representing the Executive, are not mutually exclusive, though it must be conceded that at times, the lines of distinction have become blurred.

Additionally, a Notice of Appeal of Chang’s decision was since filed in February by lawyer and Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan, on behalf of Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman, who was listed as the Appellant in the court.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

President attends Easter Concert ––hosted by Canadian High Commission

Ministry of Amerindian Affairs condemns Opposition’s ‘intimidatory tactics’

President Donald Ramotar and First Lady, Mrs Deolatchmee Ramotar (third and fourth left) at an Easter Concert hosted recently by the Canadian High Commission and featuring the Clemsville Music Ensemble. Also seated in the audience is the host, Canadian High Commissioner Dr. Nicole Giles (fifth left)

THE Ministry of Amerindian Affiairs has taken umbrage at what it describes as “the Opposition’s intimidatory tactics” in deploying a group of misfits to disrupt a peaceful protest

by Amerindians outside the Public Buildings. The following is the full text

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of a statement issued yesterday condemning the incident.

“The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs condemns the Opposition’s intimidatory tactics which today targeted Amerindians who were protesting peacefully the Opposition-imposed cuts of $1.1B earmarked

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for Amerindian Development.

“Supporters of the APNU/AFC were mobilized by the Opposition to intimidate hundreds of Amerindians on the second day of their protest action outside the Parliament Buildings.

“Opposition supporters hurled derogatory, discriminatory and threatening remarks at the group of over 400 Amerindians from various Regions across Guyana.

“The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs (MOA) is concerned about this development, and urges the Opposition to desist from this known tactic of intimidation and bullyism in efforts to deny Amerindians’ right to protest and freedom of expression.

“The MOA insists that Amerindians have legitimate rights to protest against a matter which has severe consequences for their livelihood and wellbeing.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Nicaragua on maximum alert after series of quakes (BBC News) THE authorities in Nicaragua have put the entire country on an “extreme red alert”, the highest possible, after the country was hit by a series of tremors.

Nicaraguans were asked to sleep outdoors as seismologists warned of the possibility of a powerful earthquake rocking the Central American country.

Officials said the recent tremors had reactivated a fault which caused a devastating earthquake in 1972.

Between 5,000 and 10,000 people were killed in the disaster.

‘Major catastrophe’ First Lady and government spokeswoman Rosario Murillo told citizens “we have to live on constant alert”. She also urged people to sleep under open skies until further notice.

The government agency in charge of disaster preparedness, Sinapred, said it was getting ready for a “catastrophe of major proportions”.

Soldiers have been erecting field hospitals and the Red Cross urged people to donate blood to replenish the country’s blood banks.

Some people considered to be at high risk either be-

People living in buildings most at risk of collapse are being evacuated to shelters

cause of their age or because they live in houses at risk of crumbling have been moved to shelters.

Past memories Much of Managua was destroyed in the 1972 quake

and many families continue to live in buildings damaged then.

“These are residents who have been here for many years in these buildings that are in ruins [and] have been dilapidated since the the 1972 earthquake” Lt Col Mario Rivas of the Civil Defence Force told the Associated Press news agency.

In the past week, Nicaragua was hit by three quakes of magnitudes ranging between 5.1 and 6.7, as well as dozens of aftershocks.

Two people have died and dozens been injured.

Managua resident Danie-

la Artola, 56, said her family was jumpy. “We’re scared, more than anything because of the memories of the past,” she said.

“The worst is the wind in the night; every gust puts us on alert again, because it breaks the silence.”

The US Geological Survey, which monitors seismic activity around the world, said it could not confirm whether the fault line running underneath Managua had been reactivated, but said it was not unusual for quakes to affect nearby faults.

Chileans survey Valparaiso fire damage (BBC News) THOUSANDS of Chileans who had to flee their homes in Valparaiso as a forest fire razed parts of the port city, have been returning to survey the damage.

Officials said about 2,500 homes had been destroyed, leaving 11,000 people homeless.

The fire, the worst ever to hit the city of Valparaiso, broke out on Saturday and quickly spread fanned by strong winds from the hills.

Fifteen people died in the blaze; many of them had refused to be evacuated.

Determined to rebuild Firefighters continued to try and extinguish pockets of the blaze which still remained active on Monday night.

But with forecasters predicting a cooler and less windy day for Tues-

Some residents refused to leave their homes for fear there would be looting

day, some residents were allowed to return to areas where the fire had been extinguished.

Many found that their entire neighbourhood had been razed to the ground by the blaze which quickly spread from the wooded hills surrounding the city of 250,000 inhabitants.

Valparaiso’s poorest neighbourhoods, often made

up of little more than wooden huts. were worst affected.

Carolina Ovando, 22, said she would “rebuild right here”.

“Where else would I go?”, the mother of three asked.

Volunteers accompanied some of the residents, helping to remove debris and handing out water bottles.

Adoption suggested in case of baby born to 13-year-old (Trinidad Express) SOCIAL workers assigned to the case of a 13-year-old girl who gave birth last week in hospital are advising that the teenager give the baby up for adoption.

The Express was told that an aunt of the girl’s, who lives in Diego Martin, has expressed interest in adopting the infant. The aunt is expected to be interviewed by social workers this week to ascertain her suitability as a foster

parent.

The 13-year-old girl who lives with her grandparents at South Oropouche gave birth on March 24 at the San Fernando General Hospital.

The girl has been in their care since her parents are drug users, police said.

The teen and the child, which weighed 2.91 kilogrammes at birth, were discharged from hospital on April 8.

The Express was told that police officers of the

Oropouche Police Station have been advised by social workers not to question the teenaged mother at this time, due to her mental and medical state.

The teenager received counselling by a psychiatrist and social medical officers at the hospital.

The suspected father of the teenager’s baby is a 32-year-old man of Oropouche. He was detained by police, but charges have not yet been laid against him.

Fear of looting Some people had refused to leave altogether, fearing that looters would steal their possessions.

“I will not let go of what little I have,” Arturo Gomez told the AFP news agency.

“This represents 15 years of effort. My wife and my four children are in a shelter.”

Fifteen people are confirmed to have been killed in the fire. Many of them were found in the burned-down homes they

had refused to leave.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet said the fire had grown to “dimensions never seen before”.

She said the state would make “available all possible resources to confront this tragedy, first, with the relocation and support for families affected and as a second phase, reconstruction”.

On Sunday, the president declared the area destroyed by the fire a disas-

ter zone. The government said it would send 500 million Chilean pesos ($0.9m, £0.5m) to help the clean-up effort in Valparaiso, and promised more help would be given.

This is the second emergency that President Bachelet has had to face in the first month of her second term in office, after an 8.2 magnitude earthquake hit the north of the country on 1 April.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Amerindians are ‘collateral damage’ in Opposition’s pursuit for power

THE combined Opposition’s ruthless and inexplicable $1.1B cut to the 2014 budgetary allocations to advance Amerindian development resonates in their historical contempt for Guyana’s First Peoples.

They cut away $796M provision for YEAP; $12M for construction of village offices and multi-purpose buildings; $5.6M for the purchase of sport gear and musical instruments; $30M for implementation of drip irrigation systems and purchase of tractors; $1.5M for eco-tourism facilitation; $200M for 2014 Presidential Grants; $5M for the Secure Livelihood programme; $4M for the language revival programme, among other developmental programmes to enable the socio-economic growth and development of Hinterland communities and the long-suffering Amerindian peoples.

Despite promises by Opposition parties in efforts to inveigle Guyana’s First Peoples to vote them into office during elections campaigns, PNC coalition parties (including the AFC are perceived mere satellites hanging on to the PNC’s coattails) have historically betrayed the Amerindian people’s trust, time and again, treating with utter contempt.

The disdain that Granger showed in dismissingly giving the media nebulous and scurrilous explanations for the cuts, blaming the PPP/C Government for all their contemptible actions toward all the Guyanese people in general, and Guyana’s First Peoples in particular, is a replication of their treatment of indigenous people’s dating back to decades of PNC in politics.

But, conversely, the PPP/C has never seen Amerindian peoples as separate from the Guyanese nation and has always been instrumental in the development of Indigenous communities – in or out of office.

Since Dr. Cheddi Jagan decreed September to be Amerindian Heritage Month in 1995, there has been projected into the national and psychological psyche that Amerindians

are no longer going to be a marginalised people subsisting on the crumbs of developmental initiatives within the national construct, but will be fully integrated into the holistic national programme for development by the PPP/C Administration; and one of the basic components of this new paradigm is the Amerindian Act. The Amerindian Act, 2005, provides for, inter alia: 1) Grants to communal land: Unlike the old Act, the new Act includes a process for the granting of land. For instance, a community can apply for land once they can prove that they have been living there for at least 25 years and the Minister must commence an investigation and make a decision within 6 months.

2) Leases: The Minister is not required to approve leasing of titled Amerindian land, as opposed to the 1st. Act where the Minister is required to approve it. In the new Act, the communities are only required to seek the advice of the Minister.

3) Intellectual Property Rights: With respect to the use of scientific research, the Researcher will, among other things, have to submit to the Village Council a copy of any publication containing material derived from the research.

4) Environmental Protection: The Amerindian Act supports the need for the communities to use their natural resources in a way that lends support to the concept of sustainability: Impact Assessments will have to be completed in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act. 5) Mining and Forestry: Amerindians will have a legal right to traditional mining with the consent of the Village Council and they must comply with the relevant legislation.

With regard to forestry, the Village Council plays an integral role in determining who is allowed to use their land and on what terms.

6) Governance: The Village Council is empowered to establish rules for their communities and set fines within the

legal confines of the law. Notably, the money received due to the non-adherence of the rules, goes into the Village Council’s account, not the Government’s.

7) Consultations: More than half of the recommendations are reflected in the Act. These inclusions were as a result of recommendations from the communities and other stakeholders. The process lasted two years and is an unprecedented one in this part of the hemisphere.

The Amerindians of Guyana are given equal status within the landscape of Guyanese citizenhood, while yet being encouraged to sustain their cultural and traditional norms; which far surpass the treatment meted out to indigenous peoples of even first-world countries. The Amerindian Act is merely one component of the holistic approach successive PPP/C governments have taken to enhance economic growth and social development in Amerindian communities.

As Guyana’s First Peoples turned out in their numbers to protest the Opposition combo’s heartless slashing – once again - of budgetary allocations with which Government, in collaboration with village Toshaos and elders, had estimated would catalyze the developmental trajectory of Hinterland communities to levels that would enhance their individual lives and communal lifestyles, one has to ponder on the betrayal of their people by Opposition Amerindian MPs, for whom it seems their parliamentary pay, benefits and power supersede the mandate provided them by their people’s votes to represent their interests in the highest national forum for justice. But justice is only given to living beings, while Opposition MPs see Guyanese only as ‘collateral damage’ in their pursuit of self-empowerment and self-aggrandizement.

Value your children’s performance at the National Grade Six Assessment - and support them and the institutions at which they are placed AS over fifteen thousand of the nation’s pupils prepare to write the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), it is fitting that we should address some of the related concerns surrounding the assessment and its perceived or real implications vis-à-vis education in Guyana in general.

It is my opinion that many of our children writing this assessment are placed under an inordinate amount of pressure -- I have had first-hand exposure to this on numerous occasions. This phenomenon is rooted in various historical elements of

our country’s education system. It would have emerged to a large extent from a pre-existing belief pattern that one’s only chance of “doing well’ in life, depended on that pupil earning one of the highly coveted, very limited places at the more “elite” secondary institutions.

These institutions far outstripped their counterparts in relation to educational output. It is understandable that parents, wanting the best for their children, would set their sights on the highest level of attainment possible—re-

gardless of what that child’s academic realities were. It must be recognised however, that this served to “set-up” a large percentage of our young people for “failure”; given that it was simply impossible for the numbers who aspired for these few places to gain access to those institutions. In-turn, many capable, hardworking students were made to feel sub-par and unappreciated; an experience that I am sure would have had a significant impact on their psychological make-up and overall attitudes about education.

Added to this, schools were

also stigmatised, relegated to sub-standard positions which fed into a culture of underachievement that was extremely difficult to overcome.

Recognizing that this was unhealthy for the education system and the development of the country by extension, the Ministry took some specific steps to bring greater parity to education.

Policies focused specific attention on what would make secondary schools, spread across the country, more effective and efficient. Investments were made to upgrade institutions, where necessary,

to facilitate greater scope of educational offerings—a recognised differentiating factor. In addition, investigations were done in relation to the structural and procedural barriers which impeded the potential advancement schools could make. This led to a restructuring of the secondary placement policy to bring about more equity in the disbursement of the secondary cohort. Similar considerations were factored into processes such as the placement of teachers and the allocation of material resources. Significant work was done to ensure that Par-

ent Teachers’ Associations and School Boards were functional and key school-related organs such as student councils were created where they did not exist. A tremendous amount of work has been done with the single goal of ensuring that the nation’s children, regardless of where they access education, have a viable chance for success, in the system and by extension, in life.

We have not fully attained this, but any honest appraisal of the system would recognise that there

See page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

7

Doubts surround Biased Editorial Harding’s medical examination

THE rapidly deteriorating credibility of the Colwyn Harding story again raises serious questions about the integrity of the Chairman of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes.

For a while now, Hughes’ involvement in questionable transactions countrywide remains appalling to a large section of our population.

In another of the contradicting twists, there is developing information about the concoction of the results in the so-called independent medical examination of Harding. Observation of suspicious, unusual and unprofessional activities by the doctor who supposedly carried out an examination to deliberately arrive at skewed results in favour of Harding is noted. It is known that the doctor who conducted this examination once sat on the Opposition benches as a PNC parliamentarian.

To be selectively secretive about the doctors, their professional competence and experience to perform such examinations lends to greater suspicion as to the motive of Nigel Hughes.

Sections of the media seem to be aiding and abetting the politically–driven conspiracy agenda by neglecting the many questionable, contradictory and conflicting aspects of this matter, as a means of fulfilling its responsibility to provide creditable information to the public.

The credibility of Harding’s story has been widely challenged, particularly since his report about the alleged rape came two months after it was said to have occurred, and at a time when he was being pursued on criminal charges. Even the story of witnesses seems to be concocted as one man already claimed he was set up to become a witness.

It is amazing that Nigel Hughes would stop at nothing in his quest to achieve sinister political objectives, even if he has to manufacture fiction and controversy. I share the view that Nigel Hughes’ modus operandi may very well represent desperation on his part to boost his popularity and chances in the AFC, except to say this must not be at the expense of morality, integrity and credibility.

DEXTER GLASGOW

Value your children’s ...

From page 6

is a much wider spread of the educational resources than ever before and that children in locales all across this country are emerging from their secondary schools with the requisite foundation and matriculation requirements for higher education — one of the key goals of secondary education. We now have significant numbers of students in schools in Essequibo, West Demerara, Berbice, Lethem, Santa Rosa and Linden emerging from their respective secondary schools and transitioning to the University of Guyana and other institutions of higher learning. The most noteworthy of these is North Ruimveldt Secondary, which has made the single largest improvement of any school in the country over the last three years and has earned itself an improved ranking in the Ministry’s placement system. The fact that the students who topped the Caribbean at CSEC over the past two years came from different schools in

Essequibo is a clear indication of my point: Schools spread across this country have been producing and can produce even more if we, as a nation, do what is necessary to continuously support them.

As such, I plead with parents and education stakeholders to work with us to erase the stigmas by opting in and supporting programmes aimed at improving our schools. The system is by no means perfect but there are highly encouraging signs of progress which should be recognised and supported. Value your children’s performance at the National Grade Six Assessment and support them and the institutions at which they are placed. Participate in the PTA and other school organs to help us assure our children the quality of education they deserve. That is the only way that we will unleash the true potential they possess, our institutions possess and move the developmental agenda of our nation forward.

OLATO SAM Chief Education Officer Ministry of Education

I SPENT four days in the Parliament watching and listening to the debates and hearing the questions and answers on the estimates.

This is why I was surprised when I read an editorial last Sunday in which the writer singled out two Government MPs for making remarks on or off the floor.

In my days there, I heard MP Volda Lawrence singing very loudly when Bishop Edghill was speaking. She was singing about the devil and Satan which, I think, was a personal attack on the Bishop.

I heard Cathy Hughes shouting personal comments to Cde Seeraj when Cde Seeraj was on the floor. In fact Cathy Hughes heckled throughout Cde. Seeraj’s presentation.

I heard Moses Nagamootoo sounding obsessed with somebody named “Bobby”, making all sorts of nasty remarks about this ‘Bobby’ person. He did not hesitate, too, to constantly say things of a personal nature to Government members who were speaking.

This was the same MP who last year declared that he tells his grandchildren “shut yuh so and so”.

I heard Khemraj Ramjattan telling a speaking MP that the MP is “deh undressing a girl”.

I heard Mr. Winston Felix constantly shouting across the aisle at various members who were speaking.

MP Bulkhan can often be heard hurling insults at Government speakers or members and Amna Ally, Chief Whip for the Opposition is also very active in her heckling.

It is true too, that the Government MPs also heckle.

Anyone sitting in Parliament could hear the comments I wrote about in this letter, so I was surprised when the editorial singled out the Government members for their remarks and called them vulgar, but did not say anything about Opposition remarks and heckling.

If heckling and commenting is vulgar, then all of the parliamentarians are vulgar.

And if one can be banned for heckling, then we will have no Parliament as a fair speaker would have to ban all of them.

GOVIND SINGH Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Region 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Heavy Police presence saves the day ––As APNU mob disrupts peaceful Amerindian demonstration

By Vanessa Narine ONLY the heightened presence of police ranks outside the Public Buildings yesterday prevented what seemed to be fast developing into A Clash of the Titans as Amerindian protestors, moving into Day Two of their demonstration, were joined by a small band of persons claiming to represent the interest of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

The motley group was essentially against the Amerindian peoples exercising their right to protest the combined Opposition’s non-approval of the budgetary allocations to advance their development.

Its members shouted slogans such as “PPP must go!”

“We want Granger!” “Rohee must go!” and “APNU Granger!”

GIVE US BACK ...

From page 2 will suffer.

“The opposition needs to think seriously about this, and do something to benefit the country as a whole.”

ALVIN GEORGE, TOSHAO, MANAWARIN REGION ONE: “The Budget cut was a major concern to all Amerindian communities, especially in a community named Manawarin that is in a stage of developing. Those Presidential Grants and all the other grants, including money generated for the CSOs, generate an income or revenue to the community for further development.

“We are also leaders of our communities, of villages, and we have certain roles to play as leaders.

And opposition leaders, I want to urge them to make more mature decisions in life when it comes to people’s livelihood.

“On behalf of our village, I felt like my life has been threatened and a population of 1,500 persons’ lives are being threatened.”

FLOYD EDWARDS FLOYD E DWARDS, TOSHAO OF OREALLA/SIPARUTA, RE GION SIX: “I am disappointed, especially for Amerindian development. Our communities have made proposals for projects to the Amerindian Ministry, and our proposals are not proposals that we have made by guess, or just imagining things.

“We have made priority projects, which are essential for the development and essential for the livelihood of the people of Orealla and Siparuta. It is very disappointing, because, in different areas, we will definitely fall short.

“I want to send a strong message to the opposition that has cut this budget: We need these monies for the develALVIN GEORGE opment of our communities and our people. We have been using these monies from the ministry for the development of communities and the lives of our people. We do not go and waste it. We ensure that we get proper water supplies, proper health facilities, we get upgrading of sports ground to improve our community.

“And I also want to send a message to the rest of the country as a whole, that, prior to 1992, when those that are calling themselves APNU today, we were deprived of these opportunities, and now we have been getting it from the PPP Civic Government. Our community has been transformed, and these cuts will stagnate the development of our community.” (GINA)

Amerindian residents from communities all across Guyana on the streets of Georgetown yesterday in protest of the opposition’s budgetary cuts. With them at centre is Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Ms Pauline Sukhai (Photo by Adrian Narine) The hundreds of Amerindians, who had come from communities across Guyana, retorted,“We will not stop!” and belted out chilling war cries to make it clear that they will not be silenced in their continued fight for their rights.

Police officers were forced at one point to separate the two sides, thereby quelling the tension and avoiding a potentially violent confrontation as the APNU supporters advanced towards the Amerindian protestors.

CROSSING THE LINE Asked about the tension

between the two groups, former Chair of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Ms Yvonne Pearson, made it clear that the Amerindian demonstrators “will not cross the line,” regardless of the disposition of the APNU band.

“I am uncertain as to who mobilized them, but we are the ones being taunted... I have been involved in this struggle for years; I know the struggle,” Pearson said, adding that Amerindian people have a right to protest.

Last Thursday in the National Assembly, the combined Opposition voted

down $1.1B for the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF); $6M for rehabilitation of buildings; $13.5M for the purchase of boats and engines; $20M for the purchase of vehicles and motorcycles, and 3M for the purchase of furniture and equipment, which represented the entire capital budget of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs.

Also disapproved was the $185M designated for hinterland airstrips under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

The former NTC Chair added that the Amerindian

group has a right to protest the Opposition’s disapproval of important funding, which will have negative impacts on communities and livelihoods.

She lamented the fact that some of the Amerindians who are being affected by the combined Opposition’s actions include Amerindians who voted for the very political parties whose member are sitting in the National Assembly and disregarding the interest of real people, who will suffer real consequences.

“This is a way of expressing anger against the Opposition. We want the Opposition to hear them, because there has to be a change for a better Guyana,” Pearson said.

The Amerindians in the protest shouted vehemently, “We demand what is ours!”

“Stop cutting our budget!”

“We want development!” and “Opposition is a waste; we need development!”

The demonstrators were clear in stressing that their development should be protected right, as they refuse to “go backwards”.

The Amerindian people generally agreed to continue making representation for what is their right -- the right to be able to benefit from developmental programmes taking place in the country.

President reaches out to Chilean colleague THE following is the full text of a message sent Chilean President, Ms Michelle Bachelet, yesterday by President Donald Ramotar, offering his condolence on the loss of lives during a fire which ravaged the port city of Valparaiso over the weekend.

“Madame President, “It was with deep sadness that we received the news of the tragic loss of lives and widespread destruction to property caused

- on tragic loss of lives in Valparaiso fire

PRESIDENT DONALD RAMOTAR

by the fire that on Saturday, April 12th, raged in the city of Valparaíso, Chile.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, I convey our deepest sympathies to the Government and people of Chile.

Our thoughts are especially with those who have been directly affected.

“It is our hope that the nation of Chile will soon recover from this tragedy.”

CHILEAN PRESDENT, MS MICHELLE BACHELET

D’Urban St. murder accused to know fate today

By George Barclay

JUSTICE Navindra Singh, yesterday, overruled a nocase submission made by Defence Counsel Miss Onassis Granville on behalf of Anthony Morrison, accused of murdering his reputed wife Donna Thomas in D’Urban Street, Georgetown sometime between May 25 and 26, 2012. He has called on the accused for a defence against the charge of murder.

Morrison’s defence counsel had made a no-case submission in the absence of the jury after the prosecution had closed its case; and Morrison, who had pleaded not guilty to the crime, maintained his innocence during an unsworn statement from the dock.

This morning, his counsel will address the jury, and that address would be followed by that of the Prosecutrix, Miss Natasha Backer, who will make her final address to the jury on behalf of the prosecution. Justice Singh will then sum up the evidence to the jury, after which he would hand them the case for their consideration and verdict.

The accused has reportedly made an oral confession admitting to cutting the deceased on her hand, but is contending that that injury does not relate to affixation -- the cause of death according to Doctor Nehaul Singh, who performed the post-mortem.

The jury will return a verdict today after hearing the judge’s summing-up of the evidence.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana...

AFC/APNU = A Partnership for non-stop attacks against Guyanese THE political Opposition in Guyana has the unenviable record of attacking all segments of the Guyanese population ever since they attained a one-seat combined majority in the National Assembly after the 2011 general elections.

The reality is that even their own hard-core supporters have felt the brunt of their arrogance and obsession with attaining power at all cost.

To rephrase it: Power seems to make them drunk with arrogance.

How else can one explain the remarks of APNU’s front man on all things finance, Carl Greenidge, before the start of the budget presentation that it will be a ‘blood war’ in the National Assembly? This man was making reference to the benefits contained in the budget for our citizens; so in effect, he was declaring war on Guyanese.

Old Kai never expected that he and his colleagues would eventually give meaning to his threats against our people. The people on the island of Leguan were all reduced to ‘grass cutters’ by Moses Nagamootoo.

They then ridiculed allocations to the rice and sugar industries with veiled threats of cutting them; and in so doing, tried to indicate that sugar workers were not deserving of efforts to save their industry. In fact, they publicly articulated a plan to close the entire industry. We know that sugar workers decided to take a stand and put a stop to their plans when they turned out in their hundreds outside of Parliament.

After they did not get through with this plan, they turned their attention to Amerindians. Both David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo stood up in Parliament and insinuated that Amerindians were apparently not smart enough to decipher between a ‘toy’ and ‘real benefits’ to their communities.

In fact, they rubbished the plans which were formulated by Amerindian leaders for their communities and, which were funded by the PPP/C Government by cutting the Amerindian Development Fund to the tune of over $1B. Let us also remember that the AFC, in the latter part of 2013, had ridiculed and attempted to cut an initiative by the Government to provide transportation on both land and water to take hinterland students to their schools. This was aimed at making it easier on their parents and the students themselves in accessing education.

Yet again, the aviation sector (one of the fastest growing sectors in Guyana) was targeted with the Opposition voting down provisions to upgrade airstrips across the country, especially in the hinterland, and the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

This was the very Opposition which complained of high costs to persons travelling by air around Guyana; but by their refusal to support the rehabilitation of airstrips, they are only contributing to the problem rather than supporting the solution by the Government.

Not satisfied, they launched a tirade against our business community, the very people they turn to for financial support for their political activities. Guyana has thousands of businesses in all categories and sectors. The business sector

Guyana is not sleep-walking into narco-statehood; but rather David Granger usually goes to sleep when his people attempt to get the criminals to escape justice. has expanded dramatically ever since 1992 when the PPP/C was returned to Government. These people have persevered through the tough times; they have worked hard for the success they currently enjoy. Many entrepreneurs, both young and old, are also taking a risk in venturing into business these days; they see opportunities and are willing to make the effort.

The easy access to loans and low interest rates to finance ventures is also a contributory factor. Efforts by agencies such as Go-Invest to lure foreign investors to our country also play a part. Those who did well in the mining sector are now also using their profits to venture into other sectors to invest in. Many overseas-based Guyanese are now returning to our shores to invest their savings.

The buildings going up all around us across Guyana is testament to this fact. For the Opposition to now question the legitimacy of the investments of these people and imply that they are involved in the drug trade or money laundering is a most heinous attack on this important segment of our population. No one is denying that there may not be instances of shady dealings of a few businesses, but to

Ahead of Tuesday’s hearings...

House approves $112M for work of Walter Rodney COI

By Vanessa Narine MEMBERS of Parliament (MPs) were unanimous in their approval of $112M to fund the work of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry, an allocation that was listed under the Office of the President’s 2.2B current expenditure estimates.

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) front-bencher, Carl Greenidge, questioned the listing of the allocation as an inclusion of ‘other’ current

Presidential Advisory expenditures.

But Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill, explained that there was no separate listing, as the expenditure was a one-off one, and did not warrant the creation of a separate heading, which by no means diminishes the importance of the work of the Commission.

Chairman of the International Commission of Inquiry (COI) ,Sir Richard Cheltenham announced recently that the

public hearings will begin next Tuesday, April 22.

He said that meetings with the Commissioner of Police; Army Chief of Staff; political parties; Speaker of the National Assembly; Private Sector Commission; the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C); and trade unions and other stakeholders have all been held.

Cheltenham added that the lawyers attached to the Commission, among them Mr. Glen Hanoman, Ms. Latchmie Raha-

mat and Ms. Nicola Pierre, are currently helping witnesses put their statements together in an orderly and relevant fashion.

President Donald Ramotar had agreed, in June 2013, to establish the COI, following a request from the Rodney family. A previous inquiry ordered by former President Desmond Hoyte, in 1988, found that the historian/politician’s demise was caused by an “accident or misadventure”, and this did not go down well with the family.

paint everyone with the same brush is unfair. It is also a fact that many of the leaders in the Opposition have businesses or business interests. So are they saying that they themselves are involved in narco-trafficking? Let us not forget that infamous conversation between Basil Williams and Winston Felix where reference was made to the disappearance of a large sum of foreign currency from Congress Place; so maybe Mr. Granger knows what he is talking about after all, but wants to shift or distract by pointing fingers at others.

Let us also not forget that it is the lawyers associated with the Opposition who are usually the first to turn up at the Police Station when someone has been arrested on drug-related cases, and represent them in the Courts.

So Guyana is not sleep-walking into narco-statehood; but rather David Granger usually goes to sleep when his people attempt to get the criminals to escape justice.

Ole People always seh when you point a finger at someone, three does be pointing back at you.

Thus, when the Opposition talks about transparency, accountability, corruption, narco-trade, and discrimination etc., it is important to remember this Guyanese adage.

In any case, if they were seriously interested in these issues, they would have long supported the Anti-Money Laundering Amendment Bill.

Their continued refusal to support the amendment is causing great hardships on businesses who have publicly complained of the difficulties they now experience with foreign financial transactions, and this will only increase the longer we take to pass the legislation.

Recall also, that it was the Opposition which voted to cut a $6B subvention for the Guyana Power and Light Company last year, in order to prevent a 22% tariff increase on its customers. It was not only PPP/C supporters who would have had to pay this increase, but AFC and APNU supporters as well. But did the Opposition care? No, they didn’t!

Old Kai is however heartened that Guyanese are now finding their voices; it started with the sugar workers and then Amerindians. Recently, I also observed those in the Aviation sector speaking up. More Guyanese need to follow suit and send a clear message to the Opposition that we will not allow them to make our future a ‘collateral damage’.

Rodney, 38 at the time, was killed on June 13, 1980, when a bomb exploded in the car in which he was travelling. Nine years ago, the House unanimously approved a Motion to establish a commission to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.

The Parliamentary Motion that spawned the idea of establishing the Commission of Inquiry stated thus: “On the 13th June, 1980, Dr. Walter Rodney, a distinguished Guyanese scholar, was assassinated by an explosion which occurred in his car at John and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown… Dr. Rodney was, at the time of his death, an eminent political leader engaged in a struggle against authoritarian rule for democracy and social justice… There have been calls

for a full investigation into the assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney, which have received broad support. “…the National Assembly, in paying tribute to the memory of this illustrious son of Guyana, and on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of his untimely and tragic death, supports an enquiry being conducted into the circumstances surrounding the death of Dr. Rodney.”

After his assassination, Rodney received several honours posthumously, among them the country’s highest National Award, the Order of Excellence (OE), conferred on him in 1993 by the Government of Dr. Cheddi Jagan.

Another was the creation of the Walter Rodney Chair in History at the University of Guyana.

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Tourism Minister says…

Guyana’s strategic place in regional aviation market denied - as a result of Opposition stymieing the CJIA Expansion Project

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally “WE need to work together, and we need the Opposition to understand that the expansion work of CJIA must be placed in a developmental paradigm, instead of a political ball game.”

The words of Tourism Minister (ag) Mr Irfaan Ali were stentorian in his response to the Tourism sector’s position on the 2014 Budget cut for the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) project.

In an interview with this

publication, Minister Ali declared: “We have said from the inception that one of the critical infrastructures for the tourism sector is the expansion of the CJIA runway. It is very important for our airport to attain Class One status; it means that we not only have

good security systems and safety systems, but also the infrastructure of the airport should be of a certain benchmark”.

It is important for the country to attain Class One status for various reasons.

Minister Ali pointed out the following reasons: “It helps to make travel easier and more comfortable; it will make us operationally efficient; it will attract more international carriers, and it places us into the standard for all international airports”.

It should also be noted that one of the major setbacks any airport has in attracting new carriers is the length of its runway and its capability

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014 to accommodate large aircraft.

The length of the runway is an essential component in attracting aviation business to Guyana, hence Guyana needs to lengthen its existing runway to attract other carriers and ultimately become a major aviation hub in this Region.

Many airlines are changing their fleet and upgrading to larger and more efficient aircraft. The CJIA would consequently not be able to accommodate those carriers any longer if it does not lengthen its runway, Minister Ali explained.

Guyana is a potentially exceptional transfer point for aviation traffic and with the expansion in our hotel industry and other tourism sectors, there would be an influx of persons travelling into the country. Expanding our existing facilities is, therefore, inevitable.

Minister Ali related that, just recently, “During the Christmas season 2013, we had passengers waiting on the apron of the runway for as much as 45 minutes, because

our arrival area could not accommodate all the passengers; and this poses a severe challenge for all entities involved. An incident of this nature diminishes the visitors’ experience, especially for our first-time visitors”.

Minister Ali admonished, “We should see the CJIA as a non-political issue, because these are issues that are non-negotiable and we cannot afford to play politics with them”.

The latest airline that is set to become operational in Guyana is the Curacao-registered airline Insel, which will begin operating here in June 2014.

The Panamanian Airline Copa is also preparing for a July 2014 start up of operations locally, whilst discussions are in the pipeline for another international carrier to begin operating here as well.

The $6.5B allocation for the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Expansion project was voted down by the Parliamentary Opposition in the Committee of Supply’s consideration of the 2014 Budget estimates.

Major fire averted at NA prison

A MAJOR fire was averted at the solitary block at the New Amsterdam Prison yesterday after an inmate felt he had been in the ‘strong block’ for far too long.

Prison officials were alerted to the blaze that consumed the mattress in the cell occupied by murder accused, Marlon Fordyce, of D’Andrade Street, Newtown, and Number 79 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

However, a quick response from the Guyana Fire

Service contained the blaze, which also scorched the cell’s flooring, but no other damage was reported.

According to reports, at 12:15hrs, the prisoner had moments earlier returned to his cell after lunch with a lighted wick, which was collected from another prisoner.

The prisoner, after reportedly lighting a cigarette, deliberately left the lighted wick on the mattress, resulting in the blaze that forced Berbice Divisional Commanders

[Police] Brian Joseph and Compton Sparman [Fire], and Crime Chief (ag.) Assistant Superintendant of Police Gary Mc Allister, along with other ranks, to rush to the scene.

The two fire tenders which were dispatched to the Penitentiary Walk location, in New Amsterdam, managed to control the fire.

All prisoners have been accounted for, and the investigations are continuing.

(Jeune Bailey-Vankeric)

Monies for CDC voted down THE Civil Defence Commission (CDC)’s $2M provision for disaster preparedness and response initiatives were voted down by the Parliamentary Opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change, yesterday in the National Assembly.

The allocation formed part of the Office of the President’s $3.9B capital Administrative Services estimates.

One of the CDC’s signature undertakings is ‘Operation Floodgate’, which is a simulation exercise geared to test regional and national response systems in the event of widespread flooding.

Last year, the exercise was rolled out in Regions 2(Pomeroon/ Supenaam), 3(Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara), 4(Demerara/ Mahaica), 5(Mahaica/ Berbice), 6(East Berbice/ Corentyne) and 9(Upper Takutu/ Upper Essequibo).

It was done in three-phases: The activation of response centres; the test of the response system’s functioning, which includes relocating affected persons, and collaboration among stakeholder agencies; and a test of procedures in deactivation of the response centres and management of the

aftermath of flooding.

At the end of the exercise, a report was sent to the Cabinet and the National Coordinator for national disasters for consideration.

An assessment from the Economic Commission for Latin American and the Caribbean (ECLAC) placed economic losses after the 2005 floods at 60 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while development was pushed back at least 10 years. In light of the foregoing findings, ‘Operation Floodgate’ has been dubbed quintessential for Disaster Risk Management by a cross-section of stakeholders.

The CDC’s Director-General is retired Colonel Chabilall Ramsarup, and it is a full member of the Caribbean Disaster Emergence Response Agency (CDERA).

The CDC was established in 1982 to plan and conduct operations to deal with all types of disasters in Guyana. At the time of its establishment, the Commission operated under the authority of the Office of the Prime Minister.

Responsibility for the CDC was subsequently moved to the Office of the President in 1992. (Vanessa Narine)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Baby dies after reportedly falling ill at City Day Care

By Asif Hakim

FOUR-MONTH-OLD Phillip Bratt of Sophia was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC),yesterday, soon after falling ill and reportedly becoming unconscious at the Mother’s Union Day Care on Robb Street.

The baby is said to be the only son of his mother who has been identified as Chilion Archer.

Archer, who is employed at the GPHC, told the Chronicle that her son was in very good health and wasn’t ill, so she does not know what really happened to him.

“This morning I got up and prepare my son for school.

He was very strong and energetic despite he had a common cold. I don’t know exactly what could be the cause of death, a mom carrying a baby for nine months, take care of him for four months and then have to lose him, words

The Day Care where baby Phillip Bratt fell ill before he died on the way to the GPHC yesterday.

cannot express how I’m feeling, this is my only son,” the distraught mother said.

However, when this publication visited the Day Care and asked for the headmistress/headmaster, a teacher there asked what the reason for wanting to see the HM was. She was then informed that the reason was “the baby’s death”, to which the teacher replied, “The HM was busy and could not speak with anyone at the time.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

With US$7M investment…

The Princess Hotel will be rebranded ‘Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel & Casino’.

Providence Hotel and Casino renamed Ramada Georgetown Princess

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally PRINCESS Hotel and Casino yesterday announced the renaming of its Providence, East Bank Demerara property as RAMADA Georgetown Princess.

The announcement said the initiative was endorsed by the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Tourism and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).

Speaking at a media briefing, Acting Tourism Minister Mr. Irfaan Ali said: “We, in the Ministry of Tourism and the Guyana Tourism Authority will stand ready in supporting them (RAMADA) to ensure the success of this venture.”

He said the rebranding is a major investment in Guyana’s tourism sector while acknowledging the commitment of the Princess Hotel management to improve the local tourism product.

Ali explained that it was not only a name change but a change in the level of services offered, adding that the RAMADA service is second to none.

The Minister said, over the years, the sector has been gaining traction and recognised the ability of large investments so as to foster smaller investments and that the GTA has been working to drive traffic to all hotels, particularly, during off peak seasons.

MAJOR AIRLINE He also hinted that another major airline will come on board, possibly before the end of 2014, since Guyana is presently in discussions.

General Manager (GM) of the hotel, Mr. Cuneyt Dalcan said all upgrades will be in keeping with RAMADA standards and would see its repositioning in the market place.

“This process of rebranding started in August of 2013 and was endorsed by the Government of Guyana and, over the next 12 months, we will be upgrading,” he pointed out.

All Princess Hotels in the Region will undergo upgrades to RAMADA standards and the name change as a consequence of a worldwide contract signed.

RAMADA, in 1990, joined the Wyndham Hotel Group, which is the world’s largest company with over 7,200 hotels in 65 countries.

Dalcan said it is with this in mind that Princess Hotel inked the contract with RAMADA to use their reservation services which are expected to increase the Princess Hotel’s occupancy.

Princess has not sold any shares to RAMADA and its management remains the same, the GM explained, adding that, being conscious of global warming, the hotel will also be eco-friendly by using LED technology, See page 13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Providence Hotel and Casino renamed ...

From page 12

solar water heating and energy saving systems.

RAMADA Georgetown Princess Hotel will invest US$7M in renovating and refurbishing its rooms, swimming pool,

restaurant, lobby, ballroom, reception and other public areas as well as new elevators.

The conference facilities will be improved, too, to facilitate simultaneous translation in five different languages.

Princess Hotel pres-

ently has 191 rooms comprising Presidential Suites, VIP and standard rooms. In addition, there are indoor and outdoor food and beverage facilities, including the largest conference, banqueting hall and the largest outdoor pool in the country.

From left, Ms Petal Ridley, Minister Irfaan Ali, Hotel GM Cuneyt Dalcan, Mr Indranauth Haralsingh and Casino GM Eray Kanmaz.

13

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

KIVO Foundation donates law books worth £2,895 to University of Guyana

By Ravin Singh

THE University of Guyana Law Department was yesterday the recipient of 186 law books, valued at £2,895, as a donation from the KIVO Foundation

which operates out of the United Kingdom collecting out-of-edition books and distributing them to schools in the Caribbean.

This donation, intended to enhance law-related materials for students in that

faculty, comprised a mixture of practitioner and academic textbooks collected from two top law schools in the UK -- BPP Law School, and the College of Law. Subject matters range from International Law, Media Law, Trust Law

Mr. Eusi Anderson (right) hands over the donated law books to Professor Jacob Opadeyi (centre), in presence of the UG Head of Department of Law, Mr. Sheldon McDonald

and Company Law, among other law material.

Expressing appreciation for the donation of such invaluable resources, UG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi, explained that while UG aims at providing the gift of knowledge, initiatives like this from the KIVO Foundation are always welcome, as they facilitate the provision of knowledge

to students.

He disclosed that the price of books is one factor which puts UG in a very difficult financial position to obtain; and added that the prices of some of those books are in the prohibitive cost range of between 200 and 300US dollars.

While noting that the UG budget allows for purchase of only one or two of the

books, Professor Opadeyi was confident that the books would constitute an asset to law students. “This will allow students, when they have assignments, to sit and go through these books,” he said.

Representative of the Guyana chapter of the KIVO Foundation, Mr See page 32

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Finance Minister outlines measures with business improvement potential

By Derwayne Wills FINANCE Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, in his 2014 Budget presentation, cited potential improvements in the business sector using implemented mechanisms which would have started in 2013.

According to him, 2014 is expected to be a year of progress, which was accumulated as a result of the execution of selected activities under the revised ‘Doing Business Action Plan.’

He said business owners can, this year, expect a revision of the processing time to start an enterprise with added feasibility of introducing one-day services.

The minister assured that there will be efforts toward the introduction of electronic filing cases at the Commercial Court and those are aimed at improving Guyana’s position, with regard to enforcing contracts.

He added that insolvent companies will be able to reach out of court agreements with their creditors, through the introduction of a framework which will aid in avoiding bankruptcy and he underscored the fact that Guyana’s status will, ultimately, be improved in the area of resolving insolvency.

“The focus of 2014 will be placed on consolidating efforts already made towards a more technologically advanced system,” the minister said.

He explained that this system will further improve the provision of services offered to taxpayers. Similarly, it will fortify the actions of the Government in its anti-corruption measures.

ELECTRONIC BANKING Taxpayers with access to the Internet will be able to conduct elec-

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh tronic banking operations to make payments of income, property and other taxes.

This, the minister noted, will bring a considerable reduction to both the time and cost of such transactions.

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has also released automated drivers’ licences with the view to encouraging the strengthening of con-

trols, decreasing the risk of forgery and expanding the use of technology in monitoring.

These will be followed by other means to simplify and streamline taxpayer interactions with the GRA. The Finance Minister anticipates an enhancement in the services for importers and exporters of goods, given the recently operationalised second mobile container scanner which will contribute to a reduction in processing time.

He said there is an anticipated increase, as well, in the monitoring of goods entering and leaving Guyana.

“Transparency and accountability will also be strengthened through the introduction of a random selection of imported goods for examination,” Minister Singh said.

SMUGGLING ACTIVITIES He added that this is expected to aid the increase in surveillance and further minimise tax evasion and smuggling activities.

To this end, several initiatives are being undertaken, including the operationalisation of multi-purpose ports of entry, at Eteringbang in Region 7 (Cuyuni/ Mazaruni); Parika, in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) and Charity in Region 2 (Pomeroon/Supenaam), to intensify the enforcement of Customs and Tax laws, both on land and at sea.

Additionally, the minister stated that action towards the digitisation of deeds conveyance records will continue throughout 2014, with the intention of significantly increasing the availability of deed certificates, whilst promoting a considerable reduction in the amount of time taken to complete them.

He recalled that 2013 had been a year of continued intensifying work to enhance the economy, See page 19

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Region 8 budget approved unopposed

MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development Norman Whittaker withstood grilling by Opposition parliamentarians to successfully pilot the financial allocations for Region 8 (Potaro/Siparuni) through the National Assembly Monday evening.

The sum of $944.77M was split under current expenditure with an allocation of $778.828, and the sum of $165.949M for capital works in the region.

The sum of $81.673M was allocated under Regional Administration and Finance, aimed at undertaking the necessary consultation with the subject ministries, Regional Democratic Council (RDC), and Amerindian Village Councils (AVCs), regarding the implementation of any policy or development plan that may be determined by those agencies.

It will also give maximum support to those programmes, promote efficient and optimal use of resources and, at the same time,

ensure that all relevant guidelines are observed to achieve an acceptable level of accountability.

Questions under this sector focused on repairs and allocation of vehicles and specifically targeted the vehicle assigned to the Regional Executive Officer of the region. The response given by the minister was deemed satisfactory and was accepted. Questions also focused on buildings slated for rehabilitation, with Minister Whittaker pointing out that the Kato and Mahdia guest houses were listed for works to be done, among others.

The Public Works allocation of $150.631M aims at ensuring the continued enhancement and sustainability of the physical infrastructure and providing electricity and water to facilitate the continued development of communities in the region.

Questions posed by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament, Desmond Trotman, were phrased as requests for written docu-

mentation on road works and bridges slated for construction and rehabilitation in the region. This, the minister promised to provide, while informing that major road works and bridges would be done by the RDC. He also pointed to works slated under Drainage and Irrigation, sea and river defences, the rehabilitation of road lights and other projects.

Alliance For Change (AFC) MP, Moses Nagamootoo, questioned works on the Mahdia interior roads which the minister informed him would be done by the ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment.

The sum of $518.943M allocated for education delivery will ensure equal access to quality education for all children and young people of the region. Under this allocation, questions were posed regarding the rehabilitation and maintenance of buildings.

AFC MP, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, who asked the

question, was informed that education and administrative buildings in Mahdia were slated for works.

APNU MP, Annette Ferguson, who questioned the amount slated for fuel and lubricants, was told that the sum was increased

to cater for an extra 12 hours of power supply for Mahdia and for the IT programme for the Paramakatoi Secondary School.

Garrido-Lowe was informed that the supply of school furniture would target the 27 primary schools across the region.

An allocation of $193.630M targets the improvement of physical, social and mental health status of the residents of the region.

The budgetary allocation for the region was then approved without adjustment. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Region 10 estimates approved - several roads to be rehabilitated

THE estimates of expenditure for Region 10, totaling $2.25B, were approved Monday evening in the National Assembly.

Of this sum, $148.1M

is budgeted for regional administration and finance, $280.7M for public works, $1.48B for education and $345.3M for health care delivery.

APNU Member of Parliament, Renis Morian, inquired about a $1M allocation for the maintenance of infrastructure. Minister of Local Government and

Regional Development Norman Whittaker explained that this includes external works to the Vice-Chairman’s quarters at Retrieve ($300,000), development officer’s quarters ($300,000) and works on the Govern-

to the Regional Chairman.

The Minister said that the vehicle, a black Hilux- PNN 7756, is currently undergoing repairs and that another vehicle is hired for the Chairman to use at present.

The sum of $1M is bud-

Additionally, the University of Guyana’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education in Linden will also facilitate a programme which will focus on communications and effective speaking. This will run for

Minister Norman Whittaker in the National Assembly ment compound ($400,000).

He also questioned the number of vehicles assigned to the regional office and the minister informed that these include one Nissan pickup (purchased in 2011), one Hilux (purchased in 2011) and two boats and engines.

The total sum budgeted for the maintenance of these vehicles amounted to $1.1M. Meanwhile, APNU MP, Vanessa Kissoon, inquired about the condition of the vehicle that was assigned

geted for training and scholarships and the minister was asked by Morian to inform the House of the various training programmes that were held in 2013 and those slated for 2014.

In his reply, Minister Whittaker said that this year, a four-day training programme will be conducted by the Institute of Internal Auditors, while another will be held by IPED to focus on budget, financing and project management.

six weeks.

With regard to the programmes that were held during 2013, the minister gave a commitment that this information will be provided to the House at the earliest opportunity.

As it relates to public works, questions were asked about the buildings that are slated for maintenance this year.

While Minister Whittaker committed to providing a See page 19

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Finance Minister outlines measures...

From page 16

which has seen the creation of new jobs, the expansion of exports and the injection of increased investment into the economy.

He said the involvement of stakeholders was crucial to business sector development, as consultations were conducted between Government and representatives of various industries, as well as workshops conducted by the National Competitiveness Council to discuss the challenges involved.

This was a continuous process building on the consultations from

the 2011 National Competitiveness Summit and the National Economic Forum, held in August 2013, which saw discussions among stakeholders with recommendations aimed at further improving Guyana’s business environment.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENT Minister Singh pointed out, too, that the launching of the Credit Info Bureau (CIB) in September 2013, was and continues to be an essential element in ensuring that credit information is readily avail-

able to facilitate prompt lending decisions.

H e s ai d th is b o d y marks a significant milestone in the development of the financial sector.

The minister reported that the GRA reviewed the Revenue Integrated Processing System (TRIPS), which saw enhancements identified to improve technological capacity to facilitate time and costs reduction.

These measures, he said, were all set in place in lieu of the GRA reaffirming its commitment to delivering high quality services.

In addition, the minister said there was tech-

Region 10 estimates ...

From page 18 detailed list, he informed that it would include buildings in areas such as Kwakwani, Wismar, the Amerindian Hostel in Retrieve, Fair’s Rust, South Ameila’s Ward and Crabwood Street.

The total sum slated to be expended is $15M. Similarly, some of the roads that will be rehabilitated with the budgeted

sum of $41M are located in areas such as Mackenzie, Industrial Area Linden, Wismar, First Access Road Linden, Retrieve, Upper Independence Avenue and Wisrock, among others.

Kissoon was also informed that under the wider programme of maintenance of bridges, the Katabuli Bridge will be rehabilitated at a cost of $500,000.

Under the capital budget for education, Kissoon

inquired about the provisions of procurement of solar panels. Minister Whittaker informed that these systems include pumps which are being provided to a number of outlying villages, including, Malali, Muritaro, Wairuni, Hururu, Mabura, Calcuni, and Maria Henrietta, among others, at a cost of $336,000 per unit.

(GINA)

nical capacity building of the staff of the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC), which is tasked to overlook issues relating to consumer protection and competition, forensic accounting and public procurement.

S i m i l a r l y, p u b l i c awareness campaigns, which included the observance of World Consumer Rights Day, were conducted with the objective of inaugurating Guyana’s Competition and Fair Trading Act (2006) as well as the

Consumer Affairs Act (2011).

The Finance Minister indicated that the Government continues to strive towards creating a robust environment in which the business sector can strive and achieve sustained growth.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Region 9 gets $1.461B

-close to 300 metres of roads to be upgraded THE National Assembly, Monday evening, approved the sum of $1.461B for administrative expenditure in Region 9, Upper Takutu/ Upper Essequibo, to realise various development schemes under the programme heads: regional administration and finance, agriculture, public works, education delivery and health services.

The allocation provides for undertaking the programmes and policies in regional administration through the sum of $117.830M. For agriculture, $42.457M will be spent; in public works, $271.547M; education delivery, $765.209M; and health services $264.371M. The provision under regional administration will see $5M being made available to provide for the construction of a conference room and sanitary block at the Amerindian Hostel. Following an inquiry from APNU Member, Africo Selman, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Norman Whittaker clarified that the intervention of the conference room targets improving the lighting system at the cost of $1M. He said that the sanitary block will be three units, 16x26x9, and will cost $4M. Also under regional administration, $1M will be used to purchase bicycles and $2.1M for the purchase of a boat and engine.

Minister Whittaker said that a 25 ft boat will be for Sand Creek and the engine, an 15HP, will be used at the Rupununi village crossing to transport children and education and health supplies. The minister was providing a response to Opposition Member of Parliament Sydney Allicock, who hails from Region 9.

Meanwhile an allocation of $18.454M under the agriculture programme covers provision for abattoir, sheds, fences, laboratory, furniture and equipment. It was clarified that upgrade would be brought to the Lethem abattoir, the nursery sheds and fences will be constructed at Sand Creek and Aishalton, and the veterinary laboratory at St. Ignatius will be rehabilitated. The provision also covers the purchase of microscopes, stereoscopes, centrifuges, sterilisers, measuring cylinders, and weight sets, among other instruments.

During the consideration of the budgeted amount for Public Works, Minister Whittaker was asked to explain a provision of $36M that provides for the construction of bridges. These structures will be built at Pai Pang, Baishaidrun, Awarewanau and Chiliwau, and will be wooden and concrete,

the minister said.

Minister Whittaker also explained a $65M that is earmarked for roads.

The House was told that the allocation targets five different areas and will involve close to 300 metres of roads.

The areas targeted for the intervention include Lethem, Potarinau, Katoonarib to Sawariwau, Aishalton to Awarewanau and Awarewanau to Marunanau. The intervention in Lethem will see $49M out of the $65M being expended and the roads will be asphaltic. The remaining roads will be brought from sand tracks up to laterite, Minister Whittaker said.

Also under Public Works, $27.5M has been set aside for the construction of culverts at Karaudaranau, Potarinau and Hiawa, $9M for the purchase of a tractor and trailer, $6M for the provision of solar panels and $19.1M for the provision of wells, trestles, solar panel pumps and accessories for Jawari, Curicock, Yakarinta and Cracrana, and the upgrading of the water distribution systems at Crash Water and Rewa.

Minister Whittaker, responding to inquiries, said that the tractor and trailer will be used by the Public Works Department in the region to transport material from Central Rupununi to outlying areas. He said too that the solar panels were for the Annai nurses’ quarter, Aishalton nurses’ hostel, the Sand Creek doctor’s quarters and Lethem Port Complex to improve lighting and security.

Meanwhile, under the education programme, $62M will cover interventions such as the completion of the teachers’ quarters at Sand Creek School, the extension of St. Ignatius and Yupukari primary schools, the construction of teachers’ quarters at Moco Moco and Toka, and the construction of sanitary blocks at Nappi, Annai, St. Ignatius, Hiawa, Wowetta and Yupukari Primary and Sand Creek Nursery schools. A total of $15.212M will be used to purchase furniture and equipment for schools.

In Health, $23.5M will provide for completion and construction of several health facilities and sanitary blocks. The incinerator at Lethem Hospital will be completed, and there will be, as well, the construction of a maternity waiting home at Lethem for high risk mothers, and sanitary blocks at Annai, Nappi and Karaudaranau.

The sum of $12.625M will be used to purchase health furniture and equipment and $3M to purchase six motorcycles (125CC) to be used by Community Health Workers. This will benefit workers in Rupunau, Potarinau and Massara. (GINA)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

After a decade

GNNL Chairman Keith Bu

By Shirley Thomas AFTER rendering a decade of yeoman service as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Guyana National Newspapers Ltd (GNNL), the Stateowned media company that prints and publishes the Chronicle (Daily and Sunday) newspapers, Mr. Keith Burrowes is preparing to demit office soon, effectively bringing an end to more than ten rewarding years at the helm.

Mr. Burrowes was

appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors on November 14, 2003, vice his predecessor, Attorneyat-Law Hubert Rodney who remained a Board Member under his leadership Having served in various managerial capacities, Mr. Burrowes brought to the task in hand, a wealth of experience in management, with astute leadership qualities, gleaned through his postings as: Chairman of the Guyana National Cooperative Bank (GNCB); General Manager, GAI Bank/GNCB; and Financial

Administrator, PAHO Guyana Office.

Mr Burrowes’ present concurrent portfolios include: Chairman of the Board of Directors of Guyana Office for Investment (GOInvest); Head of the Health Sector Development Unit (HSDU); Advisor to His Excellency the President of Guyana; Commissioner of Enquiry into the Operations of the Mayor and City Council and Head of the Debt Recovery Unit.

In announcing his appointment as Chairman of the Board of Directors

of the GNNL, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon outlined that, the appointment was subject to agreements made by a dialogue process between the President of Guyana and Leader of the Opposition, on recommendations from the Bi-partisan Committee on Media and Monopoly.

Shrewd financial management More recently, on Mr. Burrowes’ appointment as Head of the Debt Recovery Unit, Dr. Luncheon credited him as being ‘highly skilled and experienced in the field of financial management’, attesting to the fact that, as Chairman of Go-Invest and Head of the Presidential Secretariat, both agencies rely considerably on his skill and experience in those areas.

In retrospect, Mr. Burrowes’ appointment as Chairman of the GNNL Board in 2003, came at a crucial and challenging time: A time when the company was badly run down and in dire economic straits, having experienced loss for several years. In one particular year, losses amounted to some $20M. Thus he embarked on the onerous task of salvaging the ailing company on the brink of economic disaster and executed this task creditably.

Outgoing Chairman of the Board of Directors of GNNL, Mr. Keith Burrowes

Visionary, confident and indefatigable, Burrowes proceeded to mobilize his Board of Directors and the staff of Chronicle for increased production and productivity. Employing his known resonant leadership style, he was able to bring out the best in them, and together they combined all the skills and energies they had, hence success was inevitable.

RETROSPECTION Looking back over years and reflecting on his tenure as Chairman of the Board of Directors of GNNL, Burrowes, buoyed at achieving a reputation for having set and met goals, while surpassing targets,

modestly asserted: “On my assumption of the Chairmanship, the Company was badly run-down and in dire financial straits. In addition to realising a loss in that year, chaos and indiscipline reigned with regular late press being the norm. Productivity was well below the budgeted levels, while wastage (spoils) in the production department was very high – over 15% of normal output. Coupled with these problems were the obsolete equipment with which staff had to work; the dilapidated furniture in all the departments and a floor level which was so low that it was prone to flooding on every occasion that it rained. A staff audit revealed that practically all the departments were overstaffed.”

To compound problems, the then Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Sharief Khan, proceeded on prolonged sick leave and his immediate successor had the misfortune of being faced with a law suit against the Chronicle, almost weekly, during his sojourn.

The Chairman now recalls: “Our task was not easy due to the environment in which we operated. Our every decision and action was viewed with hostility and perceived in political circles as favouring our major shareholder. We were even subjected to attacks and criticism from other journalistic entities.

Moreover, it was at a time when the Opposition Leader had sounded a call for the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

e at the helm….

urrowes says ‘Au Revoir’ readership to boycott the Chronicle newspaper.

“This notwithstanding, we have continued to provide unbiased coverage of the news and enjoy a cordial relationship with our competitors, giving and receiving assistance at certain crucial times,” the Chairman now proudly asserts.

The Chairman recalls that, faced with a plethora of problems, the Board and Management had a herculean task to turn around the fortunes of the company and at the same time, provide a habitable working environment. But amidst all that prevailed, there were positive outcomes, and GNNL has been able to rise above circumstances, surge ahead and set a record for itself, commanding the respect of other media houses and the public at large.

FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH The very next year after assuming Chairmanship of the Board, a profit was realised. Since then, this has been the trend except for two years when, because of high raw material prices, we were unable to attain our budget, he recalls.

Burrowes now takes pleasure in announcing that the company has been able to reduce the percentage of waste (spoils) to under 5% of production levels and, at the same time, eliminate the perennial bugbear of late press. “For this, we have to thank the former and current Presidents for their understanding and willingness to support us,” he acknowledged.

“If anything, the quality of our newspapers has improved enormously with the acquisition during the year of a computer to plate (CTP) device. This equipment would also enhance our production time, enabling us to go to press much earlier,” he added.

MORE SUCCESSES For the period under review, Burrowes says things

have been considerably better and the company has enjoyed a successful 2013.

This, he said, was only possible “ … with the hard work and dedication of its management and staff, since we continue to operate in a fiercely competitive and challenging environment, with a number of new radio stations coming on stream and competing for the same advertising dollars.”

Notwithstanding, the GNNL’s production costs have also been affected by the world market prices for newsprint and other raw materials, which are steadily rising, but despite these challenges, the company has continued to maintain its high standards in terms of content and quality.

Before very long, a Business Unit was set up within the company, generating increased cash flows.

Commending the initiative, the Chairman is strongly urging the company to purchase a new Hydleburg Press, the equipment which proved instrumental in generating income under the business plan.

The company has its eye on taking the circulation of the newspaper to Miami and Maryland in the USA as well as Toronto Canada, projected to increase cash flows considerably.

CONTENT The GNNL has continued to embrace the development approach to journalism, hence its focus on peoplecentric stories and development projects. Its coverage of activities and village life in various parts of the country has been phenomenal and this trend will continue.

“Our coverage of activities and village life in various parts of the country has been very successful and we plan to make it a permanent feature in our Sunday Pepperpot,” Burrowes stated.

The Chronicle, in a major step in its drive to be technologically competitive, has also upgraded its website to make it more userfriendly, and launched its E-paper, enabling internet

users to read the entire Chronicle newspaper online.

ADVERTISING Advertising with the Chronicle is on the upswing, with more and more businesses expressing

confidence and satisfaction with the quality of service; the spread and reach of the newspaper and the fact that the paper is today out into the streets much earlier than hitherto.

Meanwhile, one

of its newest features ‘The Mastermind Quiz Game’ continues to be a common source of competition for Grade 6 and lower level students, while providing a platform for children to be computer

literate. The response to this competitive game was boosted exponentially, with the implementation of the President’ s ‘One Laptop per family’ initiative.

Turn to page 24

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

At accident-prone spot…

Mother, daughter injured in Mahaicony crash THE driver of a car, trying to avoid a headon collision with a truck, crashed into Guyana Power and Light (GPL) utility posts on Monday, breaking two on impact and seriously injuring a 52-year-old passenger.

The injured woman, Tarmattie Sookram, who was sitting in the back seat of the car, suffered injuries to her head and face and had to be rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

The driver of the car sustained minor injuries in the

mishap that occurred on the Mahaicony Double Road, East Coast Demerara, exactly at the notorious accident-prone ‘enchanted spot’ around 09:50 hrs.

At the time, Sookram and her 24-year-old daughter, Ramona Sancharra were returning home to Betsy Ground, East Canje, in Berbice, after conducting business in the city.

Sancharra was also hurt on her back and legs in the collision and was treated at the GPH, as well. Others in the car suffered less serious injury.

After the crash, Sancharra telephoned another sister who hastened to the hospital where she found her mother and sister.

Thanking God Despite her injuries, Sookram, who was only able to speak in a low tone of voice, while weeping, kept thanking God for saving their lives.

She said that, as the driver of the car in which she was increased speed on the road, she wanted, desperately, to object and caution him to slow down.

“But I was afraid to tell him anything and, suddenly, this is what happened,” Sookram lamented.

She would, very likely, be sent to have a CT scan done and her relatives are praying that she did not suf-

fer any internal injury to her head.

Police are investigating the accident.

From page 23

GNNL Chairman Keith...

WORKING CONDITIONS Placing a high premium on enhanced ‘employee working conditions’, Mr. Burrowes liaised with some donor funding organisations, and was able to attract funding and so, refurbished almost all of GNNL’s departments, installing spanking new cubicles to make employees more comfortable.

The quota of computers for the newsroom and other offices was increased in an effort to expedite work performance in a stressfree working environment.

The Sports Complex was also renovated in 2012 in order to make for improved ambience and the comfort and satisfaction of employees, while attracting a larger clientele.

REMUNERATION Every year, regardless of the company’s financial situation, Mr. Burrowes has always ensured staff were paid an increase in salaries at the end of the year, or a ‘one-off’ payment, not funded by the major stakeholder.

And more recently, staff welfare was boosted with the payment of a 5% bonus in 2013 and the further payment of a salary increase in the New Year. That apart, the company continues to enjoy cordial relations with the CCWU- the Union representing its employees, and to provide free space for the CCWU’s Canteen and workers’ Sports Club.

STAFF RELATIONS Through the years, staff at GNNL have enjoyed fruitful but professional relationship with the outgoing Chairman of the Board, to the extent that they have repeatedly lobbied for his services to be retained, even as it approached the imminent end of his tenure. Commenting on his relationship with staff, Mr. Burrowes asserted: “I’ve always had a very excellent working relationship with

the staff, especially the current Editor-in-Chief (Mark Ramotar), Financial Controller (Moshamie), former General Manager (Nandkumar Puran), and former Sunday Editor (Michelle Nurse)…all the staff basically.”

During his tenure as Chairman of the Board, two General Managers went into retirement and a third is now at the helm. Mr. Compton Peters who was serving General Manager when Mr. Burrowes took up appointment in 2003, retired in 2004 and was succeeded by Mr. Nandkumar Puran.

In March 2014, Mr. Puran retired and was recently succeeded by Mr. Michael Gordon, former Chief Executive Officer (Ag) of the National Communications Network (NCN) with effect from April 1, 2014.

A general staff meeting was held last Monday, for the dual purpose of introducing and installing the new General Manager and announcing the resignation of Burrowes as the Chairman.

Bidding an emotional farewell, Mr. Burrowes thanked the Board, Management and Staff for their cooperation and support throughout the years and expressed the hope that they continue their hard work to maintain and even surpass the level of efforts in past years. He said the Board and management also look forward to the continued support of all our customers and friends as well as the company’s major shareholder.

the emotions of others.

Simply put, if a leader is insensitive to the needs and emotions of his employees, is interested only in maximising profits at the expense of the workers’ welfare, and employs only ‘top down’ approach to communicating with them, he is doomed to fail.

American Pyschologist and Science Journalist, Daniel Goleman, in his book on ‘Primal Leadership’ dwells at length on the ‘Secrets to Effective Leadership’.

THE KEY

This was the approach that charted the ‘way forward’ as Mr. Keith Burrowes, the vibrant and innovative new Board Chairman, in 2003 set out on his salvaging and recovery mission, ultimately realizing an incredible measure of success. GNNL wishes Mr Burrowes ‘all the best’ in his future endeavours!

And just how did he manage to accomplish all this in a working environment previously rife with problems? Key to Mr. Burrowes’ success, was his employment of ‘Emotional Intelligence’, which basically refers to how a leader handles his own emotions and

Says Goleman:“Understanding the powerful role of emotions in the workplace sets the best leaders apart from the rest – not just in tangibles such as better business results and the retention of talent, but also in the all-important intangibles, such as higher morale, motivation and commitment.”

Goleman continues: “A cheerful, warm atmosphere spreads more easily than a depressing mood. There’s a reason for that: Depression doesn’t help us get things done. It has less survivalvalue.

Evolution has created an emotion called ‘cheerfulness’ and the fact that we enjoy feeling it, has clear advantages, since it motivates us to get things done.

When a leader elicits positive emotions in those he leads, it is known as resonance. If the impact of leadership is negative emotions, it is known as dissonance.

Dissonance does not make for a healthy and productive working environment. The key to creating resonance lies in the Emotional Intelligence of the leader.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

$1.620B approved for provision of better services in Region 7 RESIDENTS of Region 7 -Cuyuni/Mazaruni- will benefit from improved health and education facilities and delivery following the approval Monday by the National Assembly of the sum of $1.620B for the delivery of such services in the region for 2014.

A provision of $145.959M will cover the undertaking of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) in implementing the development plans set out in the region’s 2014 work programme. The delivery of roads, bridges and other infrastructure is covered under a provision of $162.993M, while education delivery will see a whopping $933.154M being spent. Additionally, the sum of $378.702M covers health services, and includes the construction and rehabilitation of health buildings, and the purchase of equipment and vehicles.

The sum of $27.5M will target the construction of health posts at Wineperu and Kartabo and the rehabilitation of health posts at Kaburi and Batavia.

Under health delivery, $15.850M is set aside for the purchase of vehicles, including an ambulance.

During the consideration of the estimates, APNU Member Dr. George Norton questioned Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker, on the cost of this vehicle. The minister explained that the purchase of the ambulance will carry a cost of $11M. The minister said that money remaining from the $15.850M will be used to acquire an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) for the Bartica District Hospital and two boats and 15HP engines, one each will go to Jawalla and Batavia Health Centres.

Meanwhile, also under health service delivery, the sum of $10.645M will be spent in 2014 to procure furniture and equipment to improve staff quarters and health facilities in the region. Facilities to benefit from this intervention include Bartica Hospital, and the Kamarang, Batavia and the Isseneru health posts, among others.

Dr. Norton also questioned a provision of $1M for solar systems for the health post in the region.

Minister Whittaker explained that the solar panel will be for the Wineperu and Kartabo Health posts.

Meanwhile, $43M will provide for education buildings. Minister Whittaker explained that this encompasses the completion of schools at Kaburi and Itaballi, the rehabilitation and extension of primary schools at Chinoweng, Imbaimadai and Kartabo, the construction of a teachers’ quarters at Issano and the construction of sanitary blocks at Paruima and Itaballi primary schools. Under this allocation, the minister explained, $6M will be provision for retention for rollover projects.

Also under education delivery, $2M will be used for the purchase of boats and outboard engines. In response to an inquiry, Minister Whittaker explained that it will purchase two 25 ft boats and one 45HP engine for Kamarang and a 25HP engine for Chinoweng.

Meanwhile, also under education delivery, there will be the purchase to the tune of $11.47M of education furniture and equipment to improve accommodation at several schools in the region, while $8M will provide for solar panels for Paruima, Kangaruma and Quebanang primary schools.

Joe Harmon, of the APNU, also questioned a provision of $22.1M that caters for the construction and rehabilitation of roads at Agatash and Track ‘X’ Caribese Hill. The Opposition sought clarification as to the materials that would be used and the stretch of the road for Agatash that would be covered under the allocation.

Minister Whittaker explained that the roads would be DBST and that 500ft of the Agatash road will be brought up to that level. The remaining stretch of this road, he explained, would be maintained under public works capital expenditure, whereby a total of $87.170 has been provided for the maintenance of several roads in the region.

Meanwhile, Dr. Norton also questioned what material would be used with regards to construction of a bridge at Phillipai, which is covered with a provision of $5M. He was told it will be a greenheart timber bridge.

A provision of $7M will provide for the construction of revetment at Byderabo, Bartica. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

House approves estimates for Region 6 THE National Assembly Monday approved the estimates of expenditure for Region 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne) totalling $4.48B. Of this amount, $134.5M will go towards the regional administration, $611.7M for agriculture, $296.9M for public works, $2.3B for education and $1.13B for health service delivery.

Alliance For Change (AFC) MP, Dr. Veersammy Ramayya inquired about the sums budgeted for maintenance of buildings, to which Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker, informed that six buildings are slated for repairs. These are: State House, the regional administrative building, the regional accounting unit, the Regional Development Council (RDC) boardroom, the personnel building and the administrative building at Springlands.

With regard to agriculture, questions were asked about the increased sums for contracted employees when the number of employees has moved from 22 in 2013 to 18 this year. The minister explained that while the number of employees has decreased, the emoluments paid to the remaining 18 employees have increased.

The sum of $193M was budgeted for fuel and lubricants and Dr. Ramayya asked about the number of vehicles and the equipment that will be catered for under this provision. The minister said that a total of 48 vehicles will be catered for.

These include: trucks, backhoes, drainage pumps, excavators, pickups and tractors.

Further, from the fleet of 48 vehicles, a few are currently not operational; one of them is a low-bed truck GKK 6487, which Dr. Ramayya had a particular interest in. That vehicle is currently at a mechanical workshop while its trailer is parked at the Whim Community Centre Ground.

Questions were also asked about the increase from $27.1M in 2013 to $43.8M for security services. He also asked for details as to the locations where security services are provided on a 24-hour basis.

Minister Whittaker informed the House that the company that has been contracted is Homesafe Security, which is providing a 24-hour service at 13 locations, including Black Bush Polder pump station, Borlam pump station, No. 63 Benab, Sea Well pump station, Eversham pump station, and Joppa pump station, among others.

Further, the increase in the allocation is as a result of service charges being increased from $145 per hour to $300 per hour.

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan inquired about the $146M budgeted for maintenance of drainage and irrigation structures. Minister Whittaker informed that over 60 areas are targeted and committed to providing the House with a detailed list.

In terms of Public Works, questions were asked about the roads that will be rehabilitated with the allocation of $42.5M. The minister said that these include stretches of road in areas such as Light Town, Fyrish Branch Road, New Amsterdam Main Street, Strand New Amsterdam, and Highbury Road among others.

The minister also clarified statements made by Dr. Ramayya who suggested that contracts are given to private contractors in the region. The minister explained that contracts are awarded to bidders who meet the eligibility criteria.

Five bridges have also been identified for works in Region 6 at a total cost of $25.5M. These include one at No. 2 ($4M), Moleson Creek No.1 bridge ($5.5M), Adelphi main access bridge ($7M), Lesbeholden bridge ($2M) and one at East Bank Berbice ($7M).

In terms of education delivery, Dr. Ramayya questioned the increase in the sums allocated for security services. The Local Government Minister committed to providing a complete breakdown with regard to the number of nursery, primary and secondary schools, the shift system and the number of guards to be placed at the various locations.

As for the delivery of healthcare services, APNU MP Karen Cummings inquired about an ambulance which will be purchased by the region. Minister Whittaker, replied that this ambulance will be stationed at Mibicuri, Black Bush Polder.

Further, a number of other vital pieces of equipment will be purchased such as an ultra-sound machine which will be given to the Skeldon Hospital ($6M), two cardiac monitors, one each to the New Amsterdam and Skeldon Hospitals ($5M), one 500kva generator for the New Amsterdam Hospital ($18M) and 15 pulse oximeters to be located at a number of health facilities across the region.

On Friday, the National Assembly approved the allocations for Regions 1 to 5. (GINA)

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From page 15

KIVO Foundation donates...

Eusi Anderson, ex plained that, only a few weeks ago, he had contacted Mr. Sheldon McDonald, Head of the Department of Law at UG, to enquire if the UG Law Society would collaborate with the KIVO Foundation in order to acquire the donated books. He was pleased to announce that the donation was a product of their collaboration.

Anderson explained that the president of the London chapter of the KIVO Foundation took the decision to send to Guyana a fair mixture of books. As

such, one of the books is dedicated entirely to the subject of Evidence, and is more predominantly focused on vocational training for attorneys-at-law, and not on academic training.

This particular mixture of books, Anderson stressed, would enable students to familiarise themselves with vital aspects of law at an earlier stage.

Anderson also praised the students of law at the University of Guyana, explaining that they have an incredible reputation, both locally and overseas, of being able to apply the

law more meaningfully in their advocacy. He therefore urged more aspiring practitioners to make use of the UG Law School and of the resources provided for them.

Aries March 21 - April 19 Expect a few ego clashes to slow down your progress today -- and be grateful that time is not a big concern of yours right now. A drama is coming, but it will be a very entertaining one for you -- because you’re not going to be a part of it.

You get to sit on the sidelines, enjoying the game that other people are playing. It won’t be too bloody, but it will be full of low blows and even a shocking revelation or two. Whenever people get together, the social dynamics can get complicated.

Taurus April 20 - May 20 In theory, it should not matter what other people think of you. But in practice, you may have to take on a certain role today in order to impress one or two important people. You need them on your side in order to accomplish what you need to accomplish. This is not a question of compromising who you are -- you should never do that. But you might need to temper your passion with a veneer of etiquette and tact. Play along to get along just this once.

Gemini May 21 - June 21 You have strong confidence in your ideas today, so why not take the bull by the horns and put things into motion? You need to stop waiting for that person or that money and just do what you can by yourself with what you have. When you’re in phases like this, when you have an insightful intelligence and tons of energy to go with it, you can’t let anything slow you down. Whatever you start today will take some time to gain traction, but when it does -- watch out!

Cancer June 22 - July 22 If any financial matters look too good to be true today, you had better look again! Don’t let yourself be pressured by the suits in the room. This is your money we’re talking about here, and you can’t let it go without knowing exactly what’s going to happen next. There is a lot of uncertainty in the air, so over the next few days you need to be careful about business deals in general. Don’t be paranoid, because that will put people off. Just be sure you know what you’re getting involved in.

Leo July 23 - August 22 You have only just started on your latest endeavour, so if you’re getting frustrated about your lack of progress, don’t you dare give up! Keep digging today and you could uncover the whole beautiful thing beneath the surface. Perseverance is important today. You need to prove to yourself and to others that you don’t quit when the going gets tough -- you just get going! You even have permission to get excited, because this thing is going to happen!

Virgo August 23 - September 22 When someone says something that confuses you today, don’t just reject their comments and walk away. The viewpoints that don’t make sense to you are the ones you should try to listen to all the more -- they are the ones that have the most to teach you. Start a conversation with someone you disagree with, and you’ll find out what makes them tick. Your intellectual curiosity has been starving for input for a while now, and these kinds of conversations will satisfy it.

Libra September 23 - October 22 Has your wallet sprung a leak? There’s some money going out and if you don’t know where it’s going, you had better find out. Check through recent billing statements, because there’s a chance that you have overlooked or forgotten something. And while you’re at it, look for areas in your life where you can trim back -- and not just monetarily. Spread out your attentions and make an effort to catch up with someone outside of your main circle of friends.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21 You underestimate your appeal to others, sometimes. You have a powerful magnetic effect on many people, and today, you might pull some very insecure people toward you. They are looking at you as someone who can tell them the answers. Be careful that you do not promise them too much. Even though you might think you can help them, their lives are not yours to manage. Keep a friendly distance from people who want more from you than you are willing to give.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21 It will almost feel like you are living out one of your most unusual dreams today, when odd coincidences and funny twists of fate greet you at every new corner. So keep going around those corners! The more you move around today, the more excitement you’ll get to experience! This is a great day for calling on friends or clients, visiting loved ones, or running lots of errands. Changing your surroundings frequently will keep your energy high and your attitude sunny.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19 Your recent bold behaviour has gotten you noticed by a couple people, lately -- and they are the people you want to get on your good side. The good news is that they are loving your brashness -- they see it as a breath of fresh air. So keep it up! Step out of your comfort zone and wield your power more forcefully. If there has ever been a time to throw your weight around, this is it. The more you push for what you want today, the sooner you will get it. Broadcast your goals.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18 You may be starting to be more ambivalent about the future, especially in terms of your career. These unexpected feelings about ambition or advancement might seem like a bad omen, but they are just part of a natural growth process you’re going through. You cannot always be driven and goal-oriented. Sometimes, you need to just walk down the path of life checking out the view. Besides, this period probably won’t last long. You’ll soon be scheming new ways to get up the ladder again.

Pisces February 19 - March 20 You might be in a more relaxed and passive mode right now, but that doesn’t mean you should let yourself be treated like a doormat by anyone -- for any reason. If you feel like you’re being taken advantage of today, stand up for yourself!

Do not worry that you will come off as too aggressive if you push back when someone pushes you. If you let someone put one over on you even once, they will immediately assume that they can always push you around.

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Windies, Black Caps locked on same points in Test ranking DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) - West Indies and New Zealand are expected to go all out to lift themselves from their lowly ranked status when they square-off in a Test series starting in June.

Both teams are struggling on the same number of points above bottom-ofthe-table Zimbabwe and Bangladesh who are 34 and 19 points respectively.

The latest Reliance ICC Test ranking released yesterday showed West Indies and New Zealand locked on 87 points, both trailing Sri Lanka by two points.

Darren Sammy’s men, on a high from an impressive run to the semi-finals of the just ended T20 World Cup, will be hoping to carry the momentum into their three Tests and two T20s against New Zealand.

They have a score to settle with the visitors who defeated them convincingly 2-0 in their Test series last December.

New Zealand have just named two new caps in wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi and off-spinner Mark Craig in a 15-man squad for the tour to the West Indies.

The New Zealand series

will begin with the Jamaica Test (June 8-12), followed by the second match in Trinidad (from June 16) and Guyana (from June 26).

The first Test at Jamaica’s Sabina Park will be of major significance for swashbuckling opening batsman Chris Gayle set to play his 100th Test.

Gayle, who made his Test debut in 2000, has scored 6 933 runs from the 99 matches he has played so far at an average of 42.01 with 15 centuries and 34 half-centuries.

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) said it was preparing to celebrate the event and will announce further details soon.

Indian Premier League 7 all set for ...

From Backpage Sachin Tendulkar but with some key additions like Mike Hussey and Corey Anderson, they would look at repeating last year’s winning performance.

Rajasthan Royals, the team most affected by the spot-fixing and betting charges, will be without Indian cricket’s great wall Rahul Dravid, but he will be around to advise them.

They once again look to be one of the weaker teams in the competition and with only four matches set to be played at their home ground Sawai Mansingh Stadium, in Jaipur, things could get difficult for them.

After winning in 2012, the Kolkata Knight Riders couldn’t quite carry the same form into the following season, failing to qualify for the playoffs and finishing a disappointing seventh in the nine-team league. The Knight Riders, though, have made some very smart buys this year. They have brought in Australian pacer Pat Cummins and Indians Piyush Chawla and Umesh Yadav to strengthen their bowling which was a major issue last year.

The mercurial Robin Uthappa has been roped in to give the batting some much needed power. Add to that prolific all-rounders like Jacques Kallis, Shakib-Al Hasan and Andre Russell -- and the Kolkata outfit have

the wherewithal to give any team a run for their money.

Despite the recent controversy about the team and its management, Chennai Super Kings cannot be ignored. Led by captain cool Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Chennai have played

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five finals in the six previous editions, winning the event twice - in 2010 and 2011.

They will once again be among the favourites, especially after signing T20 specialists Brendon McCullum, Samuel Badree and Dwayne Smith.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

Prosecutor wraps up Pistorius grilling in murder trial

By Nomatter Ndebele PRETORIA, south Africa (Reuters) - The prosecutor in the murder trial of Oscar Pistorius ended his fiveday cross-examination of the double amputee track athlete yesterday with a stark summary of how he shot his girlfriend, insisting he killed her deliberately after an argument.

“You fired four shots through the door whilst knowing that she was standing behind the door,” said prosecutor Gerrie Nel, known in South Africa as ‘The Pitbull’ for his hectoring style of questioning.

“She was locked into the bathroom and you armed yourself with the sole purpose of shooting and killing her.”

Olympic and Paralympic track star Oscar Pistorius (L) arrives ahead of his trial at North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria, yesterday. sions during the questioning, “That is not true,” said and at one point retched into 27-year-old Pistorius, who a bucket on the witness stand faces life in prison if con- after being shown grisly pictures of Reeva Steenkamp victed of murder.

Pistorius has broken after the shooting on Valendown in tears on many occa- tine’s Day last year.

He insists he killed the 29-year-old law graduate and model accidentally after mistaking her for an intruder hiding behind a closed toilet door.

Yesterday he told the court he had pulled the trigger without thinking after hearing a noise behind the door, out of terror and fear that his and Steenkamp’s lives were in danger.

“I was extremely fearful, overcome with a sense of terror and vulnerability,” said Pistorius, whose lower legs were amputated as a baby.

“I didn’t think about pulling the trigger, as soon as I heard the noise, before I could think about it, I pulled the trigger.”

The athlete’s voice quiv-

ered as he recounted how he was “overcome with terror and despair” on finding her bloodied body slumped against the toilet after he broke down the door with a cricket bat.

“I was broken, I was overcome, filled with sadness,” he told judge Thokozile Masipa, adding he urged Steenkamp to hold on while he sought help from neighbours at his high security Pretoria residence.

Pistorius insists he and Steenkamp were in a loving, if fledgling, relationship, despite phone text messages read in court which pointed to some arguments. Yesterday he read a Valentine’s Day card his girlfriend got for him before her death.

“Roses are red, violets are blue,” the card begins.

“I think today is a good day to tell you that I love you,” the message concludes, the last part in Steenkamp’s own words.

The trial has drawn wide interest both in South Africa and abroad.

Before the shooting, Pistorius was one of South Africa’s most revered sportsmen, admired for his prowess on the track using carbon-fibre prosthetics that earned him the nickname ‘The Blade Runner’ and brought him a clutch of Paralympic medals.

The defence later moved on to questioning its third witness, with the trial looking likely to run into next month.

Boston marks anniversary of marathon bombing with sombre ceremonies

By Scott Malone BOSTON, Mass (Reuters) - Boston began commemorating the marathon bombing on a quiet note yesterday, as Mayor Martin Walsh and Roman Catholic Cardinal Sean O’Malley visited wreaths lain at the spots where the two bombs went off a year ago on Tuesday, killing three people and injuring 264.

Accompanied by an honour guard of police, a group of dignitaries that also included Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and the family of the youngest victim, 8-year-old Martin Richard, the mayor and the cardinal stopped twice along Boylston Street near the race’s finish line.

They embraced and spoke softly as bagpipes played but made no public remarks ahead of a memorial where Vice-President Joe Biden was due to speak. President Barack Obama praised the city’s response to the attack.

“Today, we recognise the incredible courage and leadership of so many Bostonians in the wake of unspeakable tragedy,” Obama said in a statement. “One year later, we also stand in awe of the men and women who continue to inspire us - learning to stand, walk, dance and run again.”

After the memorial, which also will feature musical performances, Boston will observe a moment of silence at 14:49hrs. EDT

Family members of the victims of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings are joined by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick (baseball cap, L) and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh (3rd R) as they walk to the finish line.

(Credit: REUTERS/Brian Snyder) (1849 GMT), the time the finish line in backpacks. first bomb went off.

The bombs killed Martin The April 15, 2013 blasts Richard, Krystle Campbell, tore through the crowded 29, and Chinese national Lu finish line of the world-re- Lingzi, 23. nowned race, injuring specThree days after the tators, volunteers and ath- attack, the FBI released letes, in the worst mass-ca- pictures of the suspected sualty attack on U.S. soil bombers and asked for the since the September 11, 2011 public’s help in finding attacks that killed some 3 them. That prompted the 000 people.

Tsarnaev brothers to atThis year’s race, set for tempt a hasty flight from April 21, will take place Boston, which began with under heightened security, them shooting dead Massawith the 36 000 runners and chusetts Institute of Techtens of thousands of expect- nology police officer Sean ed spectators facing new Collier, prosecutors said, restrictions, including bans in an unsuccessful attempt on carrying backpacks into to steal his gun. the race corridor.

The resulting police Federal prosecutors say chase ended in a gun battle that a pair of ethnic Chech- in the Boston suburb of en brothers, Dzhokhar and Watertown. Tamerlan, 26, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, car- was killed; Dzhokhar, now ried their homemade pres- 20, escaped before being sure-cooker bombs to the captured on April 19.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

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Liverpool marks 25th anniversary of Hillsborough disaster

By Josh Reich (REUTERS) - Thousands gathered at Liverpool’s Anfield Stadium yesterday to mark the 25th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster in which 96 of their fans died during an FA Cup semi-final, one of the darkest days in the history of English football.

The supporters lost their lives in a crush at the Leppings Lane End of Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough ground at the start of the match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest on April 15, 1989.

Over 20 000 people attended the memorial service, where the number 96 was spelled out on the pitch using scarves donated by fans from around the world following an appeal by Kenny Dalglish, Liverpool’s manager at the time of the disaster.

The names of the 96 victims were read aloud, the youngest being 10-year-old Jon-Paul Gilhooley, the cousin of current Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, who

attended the ceremony along with his team mates.

After reading the psalm “The Lord is my Shepherd”, current manager Brendan Rodgers said his biggest match-day inspiration was the Hillsborough memorial featuring the names of those killed.

“Ninety-six individuals that were all loved, cherished and all went too soon,” he said.

“Those whom we lost, and for those of you who have fought and campaigned tirelessly on their behalf and on behalf of the survivors, you are the real true inspiration for us.”

He paid tribute to Dalglish, saying he helped hold the club together in the aftermath of the disaster.

“Liverpool Football Club and the city of Liverpool were so blessed to have a man of his qualities leading the club at such a time, and although he personally seeks no credit or acclaim, without doubt his help and support both at the time and afterwards have been critical to the families and the survivors,” Rodgers said.

Fans hold up scarves during a memorial service to mark the 25th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster at Anfield in Liverpool, northern England, yesterday.

(Credit: REUTERS/Darren Staples) “The leadership, the hu- Martinez recalled hearing the man dignity and courage news as a 15-year-old in his shown by Kenny at that time native Spain.

“As a family we was more inspiring than any goal scored or any trophy couldn’t believe the pain won and I think it serves as and horror the families would get by receiving the an example to us all.” news that their loved ones wouldn’t be coming home, UNWAVERING wouldn’t be coming home SUPPORT Despite their fierce rival- from a football match,” ry on the pitch, Everton have Martinez said.

“How can anyone die offered their neighbours unwavering support over watching the game they love?

Hillsborough and the club’s That isn’t right, that isn’t fair.

“What happened after current manager Roberto

wasn’t right or fair either, to have to fight for the good names of the ones you lost was appalling.

“But as my chairman said a year ago, the authorities took on the wrong city if they thought they were going to get away with that.”

Martinez also hailed the Hillsborough Family Support Group, and said a permanent memorial would be installed at Goodison Park later this year.

“Everton remembers. We always will,” he added.

Matches in England’s top eight tiers started seven minutes late at the weekend to commemorate Hillsborough, where the game was abandoned after six minutes, while 96 seats were left empty except for Liverpool scarves at the FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley.

Liverpool are currently top of the table, two points clear of Chelsea with four matches remaining, and within touching distance of a first English title since 1990.

New inquests into the deaths started last month after a 2012 High Court decision quashed acciden-

tal death verdicts from 21 years ago after an independent inquiry found new evidence and absolved the fans of any responsibility.

The inquests, being held in Warrington, have been adjourned for a week because of the anniversary.

The tragedy shocked the world and led to a new era of modern stadiums across Britain, with banks of terracing and metal fences around pitches disappearing to be replaced by seating and better security.

The disaster, in which 766 people were injured, is also the subject of two other investigations, with the government setting up a new police probe in 2012 in a victory for victims’ families who never accepted the official version of events, which had sought to place blame on the fans themselves.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission is also looking into allegations arising from the aftermath, and will review allegations surrounding amendments to statements and the actions of police officers.

Australian Johnson keen to prolong Test career Smart Podolski double helps Arsenal regain top four spot

(REUTERS) - Australia Mitchell Johnson may quit limited-overs cricket to prolong his Test career with an eye on the 2015 Ashes series in England, the fast bowler said yesterday.

The 32-year-old has been Australia’s talisman in a spectacular recent run, bowling them to a whitewash of arch-rivals England and a series victory in South Africa with hostile pace bowling.

A toe infection kept him out of Australia’s doomed World Twenty20 campaign

in Bangladesh where they could not advance beyond the group stage and Johnson spent the time in Perth pondering his future.

“Probably not,” he told www.cricket.com.au when asked if his body was ready for the rigours of all three formats of the game.

“Twenty20, I will quite happily say, is not my favourite format - I would rather play Test cricket.

“And maybe one-day (50-over international) cricket I have to look at as well.”

Johnson has unfinished business in 50-over cricket and wants to go out after winning the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next year.

“I’d like to win a World Cup - I’ve been involved in the West Indies in 2007 which was a well-paid holiday apparently,” said the fearsome pacer, who did not play a single game throughout the tournament in West Indies where Australia completed a hat-trick of titles. “...I would love to be a

part of Australia’s 2015 World Cup and I certainly think we’ve got the team to win it.

“We’ve played some really good one-day cricket and given that it’s being played at home, it would be a great opportunity.”

It is, however, the traditional Anglo-Australian battle which dominates his future plans.

“My main goal now is to get to that 2015 Ashes series in England, so I’ll be doing everything I can to reach that goal,” he said.

D’Andrade shines for ESC in drawn encounter

BERMINE Cricket Club’s first division skipper Anthony D’Andrade shines for his adopted Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o team Esmeralda Sports Club who were held to a draw by Comets Sports Club in their latest match last weekend.

Esmeralda, who is being led by D’Andrade this season, won the toss and asked Comets to take first strike in the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board-organ-

Anthony D’Andrade ised first division fixture, in which they found themselves

in trouble at 102-6.

At this stage, Georgetown Cricket Club left-handed spinner Raj Nannan staged a recovery in partnership with former Trinidad and Tobago all-rounder Richard Kelly, to guide Comets to 247 before they were bowled out, with Nannan making 70 and Kelly 53.

In their reply, Esmeralda, on the back of D’Andrade’s 95 which took the righthander four hours to accu-

mulate and was decorated with 15 fours and 42 from Teshawn Castro, reached 284, with D’Andrade and Castro adding 135 for the fourth wicket after their team were 60 for 3.

Comets, in their second turn at the crease replied with 201-7 declared when play was called off, even as Esmeralda moved into fifth position in the 12-team tournament, with five more matches to play. (Calvin Roberts)

LONDON, England (Reuters) - Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski struck twice in a 3-1 win over West Ham United yesterday to take them back into the Premier League top four as they maintained their bid for a Champions League place.

Germany international Podolski equalised before the break and capped a fine display with the third goal after Olivier Giroud had put Arsenal in front 10 minutes into the second half.

The result means Arsenal move up a spot to fourth on 67 points, one place and one point ahead of Everton who have a game in hand and host mid-table Crystal Palace today.

West Ham winger Matt Jarvis had given the resolute visitors a deserved lead after 40 minutes when he reacted quickest to nod home a loose ball in the Arsenal area.

Lukas Podolski The home side’s response was swift, though, and they levelled in the 44th when Podolski found space in the Hammers box and his precise, driven finish beat goalkeeper Adrian.

Frenchman Giroud made it 2-1 with a sublime goal after 55 minutes before Podolski blasted in his second to seal the win in the 78th minute much to the relief of the home fans.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

New Zealand give Craig surprise Caribbean call-up (REUTERS) - New Zealand have included uncapped off-spinner Mark Craig in the squad for their three-Test tour of West Indies in June, which was announced yesterday.

Craig, who has taken 43 first class wickets at 42.88, was a surprise inclusion in the 15-man party even after his fellow off-spinner Jeetan Patel withdrew for personal reasons.

The Black Caps also included leg-spinner Ish Sodhi for what are expected to be spin-friend-

Mark Craig ly conditions but there was no place for veteran all-rounder Daniel Vettori, who is still not up to

bowling at Test level after Achilles surgery last year.

Craig, 27, was one of two uncapped players in the squad along with wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi, who has previously represented New Zealand in limited overs matches.

“Mark has had a strong Plunket Shield taking 22 wickets and his rightarm off--spinners will be valuable against their left-handed heavy top order batting line-up,” coach Mike Hesson said in a news release.

“Luke also provides us with middle order batting cover as he’s a good player of spin bowling.”

Left-handed batsman Jesse Ryder and seam-bowling all-rounder Doug Bracewell were omitted after being dropped from the squad for the second Test against India in February after a late-night drinking session.

“Jesse Ryder and Doug Bracewell were not considered ... as they are yet to satisfy the selectors that they have their off-field is-

sues under control,” read the statement.

New Zealand had a successful summer with a 2-0 victory over West Indies in a three-match series which concluded in December before a 1-0 series win over India, also at home.

The series against West Indies starts with the first Test in Kingston, Jamaica on June 8 before further matches in Trinidad and Guyana.

“While we gained a convincing 2-0 Test series victory against the West Indies

in December they’ll be a totally different kettle of fish in their conditions,” Hesson added.

“And they’ll be driven to perform well in the first match which will be Chris Gayle’s 100th Test.”

Squad: Brendon McCullum (captain), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Mark Craig, Peter Fulton, Tom Latham, James Neesham, Luke Ronchi, Hamish Rutherford, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson.

Registration closes next Wednesday for GSCL Inc Independence Cup

TEAMS desirous of competing in the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL Inc) inaugural Independence Cup are asked to note carefully that registration for same will close off next Wednesday, while the launching and draw will take place two days later from 17:00hrs at GNIC Sports Club.

The tournament, which will see teams battle in three categories, namely Masters, Open and Female, is set for May 3, 4 and 5, at various venues in the city, culminating with the finals at the Everest Cricket Club. Female teams, interested in doing battle for the $50 000 first prize,

are asked to register early.

The first six female teams to register will be allowed to play and to date, Regal Champs, Trophy Stall Angels, Mike’s Wellwoman and Lady Jags have all made their intentions clear to participate in this tournament, for which the runners-up will pocket $25 000.

The female sides will be doing battle for 10 overs with the small ball, which, like the Open category, will see only round hand bowling being entertained by the match officials.

In the Open category, the Competitions Committee of the GSCL Inc is looking to accom-

… Female teams admitted free

modate 12 teams for which a prize money of $800 000 and trophy would be paid to the victors while the losers will pocket $200 000 and a trophy.

However, if there are only eight teams registered at the closing date, then the prize money would be $500 000 and trophy to the winners and $200 000 and trophy to the second-placed team, with the entrance fee for this category being $110 000.

Teams who have signalled their intentions in competing in

Cook says England Test places are up for grabs CAPTAIN Alastair Cook has said there are places to be won in the England Test side to face Sri Lanka in June.

Cook, 29, averaged 24.60 during the 5-0 Ashes whitewash in Australia over the winter, but scored a century for Essex on Monday.

Ian Bell and Sam Robson also made tons for their counties this week.

“It’s an exciting time in

English cricket in that, for the first time in a long time, there are quite a few places up for grabs,” Cook told BBC Essex That happens when you lose games of cricket and we lost five pretty heavily.”

Cook managed a second-innings total of 181 in Essex’s County Championship Division Two game against Derbyshire this week, hitting his first century since making

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday April 16, 2014) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230)& CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: 24 Test centuries; 8 against England 8 times Today’s Quiz: Who is the first player to make a hundred in an IPL game?

Which team won the first ever IPL championship title?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

154 for England against Australia A last November.

Bell also struggled with the bat in Australia, passing 50 only twice in 10 innings, but his 189 not out for Warwickshire against Sussex will have pleased selectors.

England Lions batsman Robson enhanced his claims for an opening position alongside Cook with a knock of 163 for Middlesex against Nottinghamshire, while fellow Test hopeful and team-mate Eoin Morgan struck 86.

“Everyone knows there are places up for grabs and good performances in the County Championship over the next few months will push peoples’ claims,” said Cook.

“I don’t think you rule anyone out.

“I’ve hit the ball quite nicely myself over the last few weeks or so. It’s nice to go on and make a sizeable contribution.”

The Tests against Sri Lanka take place at Lord’s (June 12-16) and Headingley (June 20-24). (BBC Sport)

the Open category which will be a T20 affair and will have round-hand bowling only, to date are: Regal XI, Wolf Warriors, Karibee Boys, Trophy Stall and Memorex and the final of this category will be broadcast live on NCN Radio.

The admission fee for the Masters category, which will be played using the big ball and will see both round hand and flick bowling encouraged, is $100 000 with the winners

pocketing $500 000 and a trophy and the second-placed team $200 000 and trophy.

Teams are asked to note carefully, that the GSCL Inc. will be providing the Supreme balls to be used in the Open and Female categories, while for the Masters category the big ball will be used, even as round hand and wrist bowling will be tolerated. Added information will be provided at the team briefing.

Some of the grounds identi-

fied for this tournament, which promises to be an annual affair, are Demerara Cricket Club, Ministry of Education, Carifesta Sports Complex, Muslim Youth Organisation, Guyana National Industrial Corporation, St Stanislaus and Everest.

Registration can be done by contacting Assistant secretary/treasurer of the GSCL Inc. Russell Jadbeer on 2254802, 226-4205 or 626-8228 or at Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Seaforth Street, Campbellville. (Calvin Roberts)

COP Inter-Division T20 …

‘A’ Division get past FAPC in thrilling encounter … action continues today

By Calvin Roberts

D E S P I T E a b e l l i g e re n t half-century from Richard Leacock, ‘A’ Division breathed a sigh of relief and crossed the first hurdle in this year’s Guyana Police Force/ Commissioner of Police (COP) Inter-division cricket competition, with a 21-run victory over Felix Austin Police College (FAPC) yesterday afternoon.

Playing at the Police Sports Club ground Eve Leary in the C. Persaud Dental Clinic and Laboratory-sponsored event, ‘A’ Division, who for the past two years were ousted in the first round by Headquarters, won the toss and opted to bat first in hazy conditions.

That backfired on them as they lost Rawle Browne without scoring at 1 for 1, before Faizal Mohammed (13) and skipper Jason Heyliger 32 (4x4) added 48 for the second wicket before they were both dismissed within 10 runs of each other, to leave ‘A’ Division on 59 for 3.

It became 75 for 4, when Ganesh Deokarran (4) was dis-

missed but some lusty hitting from Kevin Leitch who made an unbeaten 48 that included four fours and two sixes and Terrence Withrite 37 (3x4, 2x6) piloted their team to their final score of 177 for 6 off their 20 overs, as the duo added 86 for the fourth wicket.

Rayon Singh took 2 for 19 for FAPC, who, in their reply, saw Leacock and skipper Jason McAlmont take the attack to their more illustrious opponents, much to the delight of the very vocal and appreciative crowd.

They added 83 for the second wicket before the introduction of Deon Parris (2 for 19) saw the demise of McAlmont who lost his middle stump, but not before he partnered Leacock to a well-deserved half-century that included three sixes and two fours, with two of his sixes coming off the bowling of Leitch and the other off Heyliger.

The free scoring for the FAPC lineup ceased at the demise of McAlmont, while Leacock was later run-out in a mix-up with one of his teammates, five runs after posting his half=century, following which

‘A’ Division wrapped up proceedings with Withrite claiming 2 for 28 to support Parris.

Prior to yesterday’s exciting matchup, ‘F’ Division advanced one more round in the tournament without bowling a ball, after President’s Guards failed to turn up for their engagement. The action will continue today with four more matches being played at the PSC and Guyana Defence Force grounds.

At GDF, ‘G’ Division and ‘D’ Division will do battle from 09:30hrs, with ‘C’ Division opposing ‘E’ Division in the second encounter from 14:00hrs and at PSC from 09:30hrs Headquarters will take on ‘B’ Division, even as Officers and Tactical Services Unit (TSU) meet in the second fixture from 14:00hrs.

The next phase of the competition will be contested by the winning teams tomorrow at the Police Sports Club Ground with the final and third-place playoffs set for Saturday also at Eve Leary where the presentation of prizes will be done as well.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 16, 2014

43

Gordon peeved at treatment meted out by GCB selectors ...still wants to play for Guyana

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada - Former Guyana fast bowler Jeremy Gordon is peeved at the way he was treated by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) selectors during a visit to his native land last December.

In an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport, Gordon, who also represented Guyana at the Under-19 level in 2005-2006, described his interaction with chairman of the GCB selectors, Rayon Griffith, “as a royal round around.”

The 27-year-old lanky pacer, who migrated to Canada in 2006 and has been a permanent fixture in his adopted country’s side in all formats of the game, pointed out that he

Jeremy Gordon still has a burning desire to play for Guyana but felt that this hope is fading rapidly since the GCB selectors are ignoring his wishes.

According to Gordon, despite playing in Canada, he returned periodically to play first division cricket in Guyana and had intimated his desire to represent Guyana also in 2012, He claimed

that he also spoke to officials of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) about his intentions.

Gordon said he was told that he “needed to play cricket in Guyana before he could be considered for national selection.”

Acknowledging that he had no problem with the directive, Gordon said “I explained to them that I am a regular member of the Canadian national team and I work full time and it will be tough but I will make every effort.”

Gordon, who made his Guyana first class debut at the Albion Community Centre ground against the Leeward Islands in January 2007 and has played two other matches for his homeland,

said that as recent as last year he was advised by Griffith to return for the 2013 Inter-county tournament and he would be included in the Rest (President’s XI) side.

There was further frustration for an expectant Gordon when he arrived in Guyana, as, according to him, the chairman of selectors informed him that he hasn’t seen him bowl and so couldn’t include him in the squad.

Boasting that he had a “pretty good summer”, Gordon who played for Canada as recent as January, leading up to the 2015 World Cup, for which his team failed to qualify, said he’s still hopeful “that things can change as get-

ting another opportunity to expose his cricket ability at the highest level was something for which he had worked over the last few years.

“It was a great privilege to represent Guyana and I still have ambition of rekindling my games for them.”

Gordon, who plays for Brampton Masters in the Toronto and District Elite competition, stated that cricket in the North American country was very competitive, since there is a large number of expatriate players from cricket-playing nations featuring on an annual basis.

T h e N e w A m s t e rdam-born cricketer feels the game keeps improving at a rapid pace since there

are players from different parts of the world plying their trade and also to improve their skills, “and that has given us the encouragement to work harder on our cricket all-round.”

Gordon made his ODI debut for Canada against Scotland in July 2012 and played his first T20 game versus Ireland in Abu Dhabi in November 2013.

His maiden first class game was against Netherlands at the Maple Leaf ground in Toronto in August, 2013 while his last T20 match was against Kenya in Sharjah in November 2013.

Gordon has captured 23 wickets in five first-class matches at an average of 21.08 with six for 43 being his best. He has also taken six scalps in five ODIs and 15 in 13 T20s.

Strong GNRA team named Mitseden reward for three female footballers for Commonwealth Game

National captain Mahendra Persaud THE Guyana National Rifle Individual champion Lennox Association (GNRA) has Braithwaite make up the named a strong team to two-man team while expeparticipate in the 2014 Com- rienced rifleman and wind monwealth Games to be coach Ransford Goodluck held from July 23 to August will serve as coach/manager.

In 2010 at the X1X Com3, in Glasgow, Scotland.

National captain Ma- monwealth Games in New hendra Persaud, a Com- Delhi, Persaud and Goodmonwealth Games veteran, luck had teamed up to place and reigning West Indies fifth in the Pairs competition

- the best showing by a Guyana team at the Games.

Persaud said the team will be looking to better its New Delhi showing but expects tough competition from the 21 other competing nations.

Braithwaite is a backto-back regional champion following his success at the Timehri rifle ranges in 2012 and the Paragon ranges in Barbados last year while Persaud was runner-up to Braithwaite in 2012 and placed third among regional shooters last year.

According to the National captain, preparations for the Games will intensify during the West Indies Fullbore shooting championships billed for early next month in Jamaica and the annual international shooting programme at Bisley, United Kingdom, a few weeks before the Games.

The XX Commonwealth Games shooting competition will be held July 25-29 in Glasgow.

Meanwhile, the local shooters are continuing preparations for the West Indies Fullbore shooting championships at Twicken-

ham Park ranges in Jamaica.

Training sessions are being held weekly at the Timehri ranges as the riflemen fine-tune their programme for the regional showdown that will see competitors from Antigua/ Barbuda, Barbados, Bermuda, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and hosts Jamaica.

Ryan Sampson, GNRA secretary said the local riflemen are focused for the task at hand and will be going all out to defend the Milex long range title over 900 and 1000 yards ranges and will be seeking to recapture the short range (300, 500 and 600 yards) title they lost to Jamaica in 2013.

Meanwhile, Troy Peters, long-serving Public Relations Officer has been reappointed to the position following a recent Executive Committee meeting of the GNRA. Recently appointed Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force Brigadier Mark Phillips was elected president of the association.

Coach/manager Ransford Goodluck

THE three female footballers who participated in the just concluded Trophy Stall East Bank Football Association Under-15 league were rewarded with a pair of boots, compliments of Mitseden, a USA-based company owned

by Guyanese Stephen Budhu.

Krista De Silva and Nikita Amardeo both played with Herstelling FC while Diana Angoy represented Diamond United FC.

The three were complimented for participating in the tournament, which attracted four clubs and was contested over two rounds at the Grove Playfield.

Budhu, who is the designer and manufacturer of the boots, said he decided to reward the girls as a means of encouraging them to stay playing the sport while also paying keen attention to their educational pursuits.

Recipients of the Mitseden soccer boots from right: Krista De Silva, Nikita Amardeo and Diana Angoy.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Windies, Black Caps locked on same points in Test ranking (See Story on page 39)

Indian Premier League 7 all set for start in UAE today

ABU DHABI: The seventh edition of the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) gets under way in Abu Dhabi today with allegations of corruption and spot-fixing looming over it.

The first 20 matches, from today to April 30, will be played in the UAE as the dates were clashing with India’s General Election.

The Twenty20 bandwagon will return home for matches scheduled from May 2 to June 1.

The first match is between defending champions Mumbai Indians, captained by Rohit Sharma, and Gautam Gambhir-led Kolkata Knight Riders, winners of the 2012 edition.

The organisers are hoping that cricket takes the centre stage and not drama and scandals -- as in the last edition.

The Supreme Court, which appointed legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar to oversee the seventh edition of the IPL, would also be keeping tabs on the happenings. Off-field issues

Defending champions Mumbai Indians tackle 2014 season today. been regulars in the touraside, IPL-7 promises to be a nament. closely fought affair.

Many iconic players Fresh auctions earlier find themselves in new in the year saw the merry- company, making oppogo-round of players and nents in yesteryears comevery franchise has a fair rades today. For one, Yuvraj sprinkling of new faces, Singh, who cost the Royal though most of them have Challengers a small for-

2012 champions Kolkata Knight Riders in the tune, will, along with his Villiers, besides Yuvraj India teammate and fran- and Kohli, RCB, without chise captain Virat Kohli, doubt, have the most danlook to right the wrong of gerous batting line-up. the World T20 final where Delhi Daredevils, too, he choked against the wily spent big and purchased the Sri Lanka attack. likes of Dinesh Karthik and With prolific batsmen Kevin Pietersen.

Chris Gayle and AB de With the new purchases

first match of the IPL on board, the GMR-owned team is expected to do better, having had a dismal season last year, finishing at the bottom of the ladder.

Mumbai will be without their talisman and city icon

(See page 39)

GFF to benefit from more FIFA funding

GFF president Christopher Matthias

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will benefit from approximately $100M, compliments of football World governing body FIFA. This disclosure was made

by GFF president Christopher Matthias who spoke to Chronicle Sport exclusively.

Matthias said FIFA’s Development Committee met recently and made a decision to hand out funds to the lesser developed football nations to assist with their development of the sport.

He said the money will be forthcoming after the 2014 Brazil World Cup tournament.

(See Story on The GFF head also said

page 26)

once his Federation receives the money each of its eight affiliates will receive funding for infrastructural development within their association.

He said each of the eight associations across the country will receive $1M to bolster their bank accounts and each will receive 10 footballs and one set of playing uniforms.

Matthias, who has been the target of allegations by some section of society and also former GFF executives, said he is here for football development and the one year since he has occupied the head seat of the Federation a lot has been done in

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this direction.

He also said apart from the uniforms, balls and money each association will receive, it is his intention to also provide each of them with one 15-seater minibus so that they can transport their players to matches.

The GFF head said he would also encourage the associations to use the buses to garner an income by transporting passengers in each of their communities and the cash raised from this will go towards the development of their respective associations.

In a recent article in another section of the media, coaches from various clubs in Georgetown, Linden,

East Coast and West Coast Demerara were asked to give their opinion on Matthias’ leadership over the one-year period that he has been president, and each of the coaches felt that he has been doing an excellent job, given the in-house cleaning he had to do and the debt he went into office and met.

According to Matthias, when he took over, the GFF had owed about $25M to various businesses and to date that amount has reduced significantly.

One coach said football should be the winner, because it is the players who will suffer.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014