Guyana chronicle 23 05 14

GUYANA No. 103836

FRIDAY MAY 23, 2014

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

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Workers of budget cut agencies feeling - as pay day approaches squeeze Ashton Chase calls Page

Dr Roger Luncheon

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on Guyana’s Labour Movement to unite

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- says current division ‘a backward step’

Septic tank murder accused

freed

by jury Mark ‘Polo’ wanted 5 - following drug

by CANU bust at Ogle

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‘FREED’: Desiree Jeffers

The Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) invites the public to come join in Solidarity with the Nigerian People, and calling for the release of the abducted schoolgirls by terrorist group, Boko Haram.

Venue: Red House Date: Friday 23rd May, 2014 Time: 16:00 hrs Your presence will be highly appreciated.

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Mark ‘Polo’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

Workers of budget cut agencies feeling squeeze - as pay day approaches

THE imminent arrival of the salary date for this month in the Public Service has brought home, with stark clarity, the full impact of the 2014 Appropriation Act, which was passed in National Assembly subsequent to the $37.4B Opposition-led cut from the $220B national budget.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Roger Luncheon said the impact would no doubt take its toll on the livelihoods of the affected workers, particularly those at Office of the President and its subventions agencies.

Both the capital and

current expenditure programmes for administrative services for the Office of the President were disapproved by the political Opposition in Parliament.

“The impact, were it to be felt, would essentially see us putting up the ‘For Rent’ or ‘For Sale’ sign as there is no money in the kitty… nothing to support even the most routine activities of the Office of the President and the subvention agencies under the Office of the President,” Dr. Luncheon told reporters.

He explained that the impact is such that it has not only threatened the discharge of the constitutional

functions of the President, but livelihoods of many public officers as well.

Many of these officers were appointed by the Public Service Commission to pensionable posts.

The HPS said the intellectual authors of the 2014 Appropriation Act need to be reminded that for these workers, the said Act may be seen as a denial of their constitutional rights.

“With such a track record, Guyanese must be warned and must be on the alert; the Opposition appears to have little attention, little care for the rights of ordinary Guyanese. They send the most conflicting of

Septic tank murder accused freed by jury MURDER accused Desiree Jeffers, who is said to have participated in the murder of her policeman lover, Igriss Bobb Blackman, whose dead body was fished out of a septic tank at La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara in 2006, was freed by a Demerara Assizes jury yesterday.

Blackman’s body was fished out of a septic tank outside the home of the accused on the West Bank of Demerara in 2011, and it was wrapped in a coloured carpet which contained human blood.

Jeffers, who was represented by Mr. Peter Hugh, in association with attorney-at-law Miss Latchmie Rahamat, pleaded not guilty and the jury rejected the prosecution’s circumstantial evidence.

‘FREED’: Murder accused Desiree Jeffers was freed yesterday

Gov’t, U.S. Embassy to re-engage in talks on LEAD project THE Government has agreed to withdraw its disapproval of the USAID-funded Leadership and Democracy Project (LEAD), Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon told reporters yesterday.

The Cabinet Secretary said this decision was made to allow for the Government and the U.S. Ambassador to re-engage in discussions on the project.

Dr Luncheon explained that the process of re-negotiation has already commenced.

He said the outcome is to have a project that is mutually accepted before it is signed off.

The controversial project, which was being implemented by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) despite Government’s non-approval, was recently put on hold to facilitate discussions between the two-sides with a view to having a re-engagement of the project at a later date.

In July 2013, the U.S. launched the LEAD project without the formal sanction of the Guyana Government and went ahead implementing various aspects.

The U.S. Government on April 30 conveyed its willingness to temporarily suspend the project’s implementation. (GINA)

Dr Roger Luncheon messages and conflicting of signals and this is all done as they pursue their narrow partisan political interests,” the Cabinet Secretary said.

The Opposition has been cutting successive national budgets since the commencement of the tenth Parliament; jeopardising not only people’s livelihoods but many developmental projects as well. As a result, the Government has had to move to the high court to seek redress.

Subsequently, the Chief Justice, issued an interim and later a final ruling, which empowers the Minister of Finance to restore funds cut and/or reduced.

However, the workers of affected agencies bore the

brunt of the Opposition’s actions since many of them were without salaries for months before the restoration took place.

The 2014 Appropriation Act, which was passed in the National Assembly on April 16, was assented to

by Acting President, Samuel Hinds.

At a previous press conference, Dr Luncheon had noted that moving forward presents a challenge, considering the $37.4B reduction in the National Estimates.

He contended that the cuts “stranglehold” the implementation of many programmes and functioning of many entities, including OP, where allocations in some areas have been reduced to zero.

Under the allocation for OP, the cuts include $245M for the Presidential Guard services; $95M for the provision of developmental and humanitarian aid, among other initiatives; $10M for the Office of the First Lady; $73.5M for the Guyana Energy Agency; $119M for the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest); $122M for the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST); $17M for the Integrity Commission; and $28.5M for the Office of the Commissioner of Information.

He had reiterated that, in the absence of a “negotiated solution”, the definitive an-

swer to the challenge of the budget cuts lies in the hand of the interpreters of the Constitution of Guyana, the Judiciary.

On January 29 this year, Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang had ruled that the National Assembly has no right to cut the National Budget. In the Preliminary Ruling given in June 2012, the CJ had ruled that the National Assembly has a role to either approve or disapprove of the National Estimate, not to cut them.

A Notice of Appeal of Chief Justice Chang’s decision was filed, in February,

by Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Attorney-at-Law Khemraj Ramjattan, on behalf of Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman, who was listed as the appellant in the court.

Last year, the combined Opposition cut the Budget by $31B; and in 2012 by $21B.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

Youths role in mitigating climate change effect paramount to planet’s future survival - Finance Minister at opening of Vybzing Guyana 2014

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh; Minister of Culture, Youth and Spor,t Dr. Frank Anthony; Vice President (Corporate Services) and Bank Secretary, CDB, Yvette LemoniasSeale; and Senior Technical Officer/Manager, Forest and Livelihood Programme, CNRI, Neila Bobb-Prescott at the Vybzing Guyana Workshop at Grand Coastal Inn

THE greatest consequences of climate change reside in the long-term survival and survivability of the planet, and of individual communities, and because youth are the future, they more than any generation have a vested interest to protect the planet for tomorrow.

This was the view of Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, during his address at the opening of the Vybzing Guyana Workshop at the Grand Coastal Inn on Wednesday. The threeday forum which ends today is the first event, connected to almost two weeks of activities in Guyana as the country hosts the 44th Annual Meeting of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) Board of Governors in Guyana.

Youths from across the country, between the ages of 16 and 29, will hear presentations on the threats posed by climate change and climate variability, and Guyana’s, the Region’s and CDB’s responses.

The workshop is being facilitated by a team from the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) and is seeing participation from students from the Hinterland, the University of Guyana and Youth Challenge Guyana among others.

Minister Singh, in his address at the opening, sought to emphasise the role of the youths in addressing the issue even as he noted that his generation is doing its part in the fight.

“Our generation will do and are doing all that we can in this fight,” alluding to the pre-eminent Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) initiated by the Government of Guyana to address the issue.

“More than three-quarters of our country is still pristine rainforest, kept intact because successive generations have recognised the need to protect the forest,” Minister Singh said.

“For generations, the custodians of our forest, the leaders and residents of our Amerindian communities have recognised that if they cut down the forest their communities will be wiped out and decimated...and so, for generations, Guyanese have exercised responsible policy choices to keep our forest standing so that today we can proudly say that we serve as an important part of the lungs of the world,” he said.

The Finance Minister pointed out that, “whilst the rest of the world has rushed ahead and cut down their trees in the name of economic development, we have acted responsibly and kept our trees standing.”

“For that reason I am pleased that climate change was chosen as the theme for this forum because we pride ourselves in Guyana to the contribution that we make to the global effort, to fight climate change, and we want to imbue in our young people a sense of responsibility that for generations to come, just as generations before us have done, we in Guyana must always continue to be responsible custodians of our natural environment,” Dr. Singh said.

Over the past few years CDB introduced the Vybzing programme as a component of its annual meeting of Board of Governors, as part of a goal of creating a platform that allows regional youths to be seen as active players in the Region’s development, and in shaping their own future.

The engagement is important in the bank’s structuring of responses to priority actions in the region. In this regard, Minister Singh, in his address also praised the Region’s finest institution for its developmental role.

The Finance Minister, in addition to stating that the CDB is an extremely important regional institution, noted that the institution was founded almost at the same time that the young nations of the Caribbean were being (Please see page 7)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

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Chief Justice refuses Processing Alex Griffith matter to recuse himself in delayed by Colwyn Harding probe Town Clerk Sooba’s - PCA Chairman matter ACTING Chief Justice Mr. Ian Chang, yesterday, turned down a suggestion by attorney Nigel Hughes that he should recuse himself in the Town Clerk, Carol Sooba, matter because another judge was also concerned with a similar case.

In the particular matter, Sooba had already been given a Nisi Order of Certiorari directed to Mayor Hamilton Green to show cause why he swore-in Royston King into the office of Town Clerk.

Instead of recusing himself, the Chief Justice has granted the respondent six days’ leave to file an affidavit in answer and the applicant three days’ leave to file an affidavit in reply.

TOWN CLERK TO SHOW AUTHORITY BEFORE JUSTICE INSANALLY On the other hand, Mr. Royston King, the controversial Town Clerk, had moved to the High Court, before Justice Insanally, challenging Sooba to show to the court her authority to hold office.

And Justice Insanally has granted King a Nisi Order calling on Town Clerk Carol Sooba to show her qualifications to the office and authority to hold that office.

(Barclay)

By Leroy Smith

THE file on 15-year-old Alex Griffith who was shot by a cadet officer on April 30 is still with the Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority, retired Justice Cecil Kennard who has explained that work on the Colwyn Harding file was responsible for the lack of undivided attention the teen’s file got from his department.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle recently, the PCA Chairman said that the perusal of the Griffith case could not have been done since the Colwyn Harding file was returned to him for additional statements.

Justice Kennard related that he did not look at both files at the same time because he refused to allow two very sensitive and important cases to engage his attention all at once. He said that he took that approach to avoid making any hasty conclusion and recommendation since persons’ lives can be affected by his recommendations.

Kennard assured that it was important for both files to receive a fair level of attention and assessment so that when decisions are made with respect to what evidence would have been provided, those decisions will be able to stand up to scrutiny.

He promised that the Colwyn Harding file would have been completed by Wednesday and that was done. The file was up to yesterday on the desk of the Crime Chief.

The PCA Chairman related that based on his assessment and the amount of work he had to do on the Alex Griffith file, it should be completed today and ready to be forwarded to the police who will then forward it to the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Griffith was shot to his mouth by a police cadet officer after the cop was informed by his sister that she was robbed and that one of the robbers might have been

the 15-year-old.

The cadet officer, along with a party of policemen, visited the home of the teenager and took him to the back of another resident’s yard in East La Penitence where he was beaten by the officers. He was then thrown into the back of a police patrol vehicle and later shot in the mouth.

The day after the shooting, ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken and Assistant Commissioner Balram Persaud, who was performing the duties of Commissioner of Police, visited the mother of the teenager and promised a swift investigation and swift justice. That was more than 22 days ago.

to work and live.

The support is also part of the group’s com-

memoration of World Environmental Day, celebrated every year on June 5

to raise global awareness of the need to protect the nature and the planet.

Youth Group makes contribution towards keeping the City clean LOCAL Government Minister Norman Whittaker, yesterday, congratulated the Kingston West Progressive Youth Organisation for seeking to play its part in cleaning up the city.

The group, in addition to sprucing up the area in the vicinity of the Kingston seawall band stand, working along with the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), was able to procure 12 barrels to be

placed at strategic locations along the Kingston seawall band stand route.

The barrels were yesterday handed over to the Town Clerk (ag) Carol Sooba in the presence of Minister Whittaker, who noted Government and the City’s appreciation for the group’s effort. “For some it may be considered small, but I want to let you know that it is meaningful and it is signifi-

Mark ‘Polo’ wanted by CANU - following drug bust at Ogle THE Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) is re-

‘WANTED’: Mark ‘Polo’

questing information on the whereabouts of Mark ‘Polo’ of Cooper Street, Albouystown.

‘Polo’ is wanted in connection with narcotics found at the Ogle International Airport on Wednesday May 21, 2014.

CANU can be contacted at telephone number 2273507.

According to media reports, a quantity of cocaine and marijuana was found in a suitcase of a Barbados bound female passenger, at the Ogle International Airport on Wednesday.

The woman, said to be in Police custody, is believed to be linked with ‘Polo’.

cant,” he told the group.

“It is coming at a time when Guyanese are increasingly expressing concern about the environmental situation across our country and more specifically in the metropolis Georgetown,” the minister said.

The Local Government Minister expressed the hope that the group’s bold step would encourage others to look for and implement similar initiatives aimed at cleaning up Georgetown, and by extension Guyana.

He noted too, that GEA has always been active in working with the Local Government Ministry in helping to improve the environment and called on other agencies to come on board.

Similar sentiments were echoed by Sooba who expressed the Town Council’s gratitude to the group, and also expressed hope for similar gestures from other groups and organisations toward making Georgetown a healthier place for Guyanese

Some members of the Kingston West Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) with Minister Norman Whittaker and Town Clerk (ag) Carol Sooba during yesterday’s simple but significant handing over of the drums for garbage.

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GUYANA

EDITORIAL

On respect for systems and authority

ONE precious little girl, the grand-daughter of a senior member of staff of this newspaper, was recently seriously burnt in the face with a flare gun pointed directly at her by a fellow student. This child’s face will be seriously disfigured for life if she does not get corrective surgery to rectify the damage done to her features by the young criminal, but what about the emotional and psychological scars that she will have to cope with?

She is lucky, in the sense that she has a sensible and enlightened grandmother who is even now grappling with all the intricacies of the physical/social/emotional and psychological traumas being endured by her beloved grandchild; but there are many more victims of violence being perpetrated by young people all across the country: Actually, all across the world.

But this global phenomenon needs to be addressed holistically, with world leaders eschewing their petty squabbles to take their young people, who are the future human capital of any nation’s developmental paradigm, and channel their energies into constructive mechanisms for personal and national development and growth. But it needs to begin with the family and a restoration of the value systems and moral compass of yesteryears.

The peoples of Guyana, although their ancestors spanned racial and cultural divides, shared one common tradition, and that is absolute respect for one’s elders, who were integral to the survival and sustenance of the individual family, and the community in general.

The village elder system of jurisprudence prevailed within British Guiana village enclaves over the system as prescribed by the British Constitution, and until now, the Panchaayat system holds sway over rural communities in India before the more formalized court system of justice is sought.

Within homes and families, it was the elders who guided the family in their daily pursuits, and who had the final say in family decisions. That respect of the younger members of a family and community for their elders has been gradually eroding, until it has almost dissipated, although not absolutely, because there are yet some families who adhere stringently to old traditions.

Many news stories of elderly parents being assaulted or neglected by their children is a reflection of the changing times, where the family elders are often seen as encumbrances and inhibitors to progress, and are consequently relegated to the ranks of the useless, and forced to exist in a paradigm of docility, servility and subservience.

Enduring family relationships built on love, friendship, trust and respect are seemingly as extinct as the dodo.

When a loving mother is turned into a guest instead of being treated like family; when a father is mocked at for his old-fashioned values; when parents are treated like so much used-up, discardable baggage not worth keeping in one’s home; when grandchildren are taught by their parents

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

Stop the burning!

EARLY in the morning on my way to work, I usually look forward to the drive along the East Coast road because of its proximity to the sea wall before I get to the pollution of the city.

At that time, the fresh northeast trades blowing in from the sea are particularly refreshing, especially in the vicinity of that wide open stretch of land at Turkeyen.

On the morning of May 15th, at about 09:30 hrs, when I got to this particular stretch of road, I immediately knew that I was not going to have my lungs filled with the accustomed fresh air before I arrived in the city.

Thick clouds of smoke heralded me to the disaster I was approaching and the bright red glint of fire tenders confirmed my suspicions. Some inconsiderate, selfish, unthinking person had lit a fire in the empty land space opposite the sea wall and it was burning out of control.

The person who did this no doubt felt it was the quickest way to clear the land, but had not stopped once to think of the consequences of the action, or the magnitude of persons that would be affected by that insensitive behaviour.

I drove through smoke all the way to Lilliendaal and still did not dare wind down my windows until I passed Bel Air. This means every family in every village downwind of Turkeyen was affected by the smoke from this conflagration.

Think of the countless children, old people, pregnant mothers, persons suffering from asthma and other respiratory illnesses living in these villages whose very lives were put at risk because of the thoughtless act of one insensitive human being.

Generally, I have hosted many television and radio programmes and written many letters to the press on the dangers of lighting fires in the city. The Guyanese public needs to know that it is against the law in Guyana to light a fire outdoors and there are reasons for this.

Apart from the dangers of the fire spreading and becoming uncontrollable, as with the one on the East Coast, and there was no question about it being out of control. (This was evidenced by the presence of fire tenders); fires lit indiscriminately tend to destroy the environment through smoke pollution and quite often the destruction of fragile ecosystems.

In addition, the odour clings to curtains and furniture for days.

In spite of this, however, this habit has become endemic

in our society and it is not unusual to wake up to your house filled with smoke, only to find that your neighbour has decided that that particular evening was a good one to burn garbage.

In this present climate where garbage collection is uncertain and sporadic, I can understand the need to get rid of refuse, but it has to be done in consideration of the people around. Most types of refuse material that is biodegradable could be used for compost or buried, and plastics, Styrofoam and synthetics have to be carted away to designated dump sites where they can be destroyed safely. Scientific studies on the effects of burning these materials in the open have proven that this is simply dangerous to our health and the health of the environment.

Plastics such as PVC (polyvinylchloride) is common in such things as bottles, jugs, plastic packaging and blister packs, etc. When these are burnt in the open, carbon monoxide, dioxins and furans are released into the air. Whilst carbon monoxide is a pretty well-known poison, dioxins and furans are not. Studies have linked dioxins and furans to cancer and respiratory disease as well as hormonal imbalance, asthma and heart disease.

As if this isn’t frightening enough, Carina Harkin, BHSc. Nat. BHSc. Hom. BHSc. Acu., a practitioner of 11 years, complementary medicine, lecturer for 4 years and mother of six in Galway, Ireland, cited research that proves toxic components inhaled through smoke from burning plastic materials may cause sex behavioural orientation of your newborn baby. As a result, the child could begin exhibiting behaviour in total contrast to his or her sex - changes from male to female sexual characteristics or vice versa. Researchers have established that inhaling burnt plastic materials have altered sexual characteristics of birds (from male to female). They have discovered the same defects can easily occur in human beings.

In other words, these materials should never be burnt in the open air. There are recycling options available for many of these products.

To the person who polluted the atmosphere (that) morning, and who would have caused unimaginable suffering and possible irreparable harm to many on the East Coast, I say ‘shame on you.’ Strangely enough, the land which was set ablaze is owned by a very prominent entrepreneur in the private sector. To the rest of the fire lighting Guyanese public I say, stop this dangerous practice.

to disrespect grandparents and their value systems and moral codes, that is unimaginable tragedy for families, communities and nations.

Oftentimes the unsupportable pain children cause parents reaches its zenith, to the extent where parents find solace in the company of outsiders, and sanctuary on the streets, or in homeless shelters, as a visit to any of the homes for the elderly will attest.

And when the pride and dignity of parents are shattered by the disillusion of ultimate betrayal of those whom they love best, and for whom they sacrificed everything for their children, sometimes they will themselves to die, or take their own lives.

Cognisant of the unfortunate decline in morals in the young generation, many church bodies are re-introducing healthy youth group activities in attempts to aid in the reinstitution of family values.

An Indian movie, “Baghban” explores these dynamics and reinforces the message of the need for mutual respect and care among family members. Parents, having cared for their children, often expect reciprocity in later years. When hopes are dashed, fragmentation leads to contempt.

Every family has challenges. Despite this, mutual care among parents and children is expected. Some may ask whether lack of reciprocity generates disrespect; whether parents expect too much from their children; why children forget their parents’ sacrifices and thus can be seen as ungrateful; why, very often, strangers are more useful than one’s “flesh and blood”?

The protagonist in the movie poignantly concludes: “Times have changed. Life has changed. If people of my generation will recall, our father was like God. At our mother’s feet lay our heaven. But now,…now people have become very sensible. The new generation is very clever and practical.

For them, every relation is like a ladder on which they will step to rise further in life. But when they have no use for the ladder anymore, along with the rest of the broken furniture in the house -- old vessels, old clothes and newspapers -- they are dumped in the attic. However, life does not take anyone up like a ladder. Life grows like a tree. Parents are not the steps on a ladder. Parents are the soul of one’s life.

However big the tree is, however green and filled it is, it cannot stand on its own, once its roots are hacked. With all humility and respect, I ask today - the children for whose happiness a father spends every penny of his hard-earned money with a smile, those very children, when the father’s eye-sight weakens…why do they hesitate in giving them light? If a father can help his son to take the first step in his life...why can’t the son give his father support when he’s taking the last few steps of his life? What crime is it of the parents who have devoted all their lives to their children, that they are given tears and loneliness?

“Is it for a day like this that Man seeks children?

Children perhaps forget what our present today is, will be their present tomorrow. If we are old today, they will also grow old someday. The questions we ask today, they will ask tomorrow.”

Indeed! But the changing dynamics within society itself is a major contributory factor to downscaling standards within homes. In a nation where children can disregard law and order, to the extent of attending school with weapons and threatening and even harming fellow students and teachers, with no or little sanctions; where there is massive cover-up of illicit activities on school premises, then that is the yardstick by which the nation, the community, and the family will be judged, in descending order.

ROSHAN KHAN

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

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GECOM Deputy CEO sets the record straight

--with reference to nuances in Chronicle April 23, 2014 reportage I AM responding with much hesitation to the article captioned “Deputy Calvin Benn opts not to renew contract with GECOM,” which was published in the Chronicle Newspaper of April 23, 2014.

This hesitation is so because, having made my decision not to renew my contract, I hope to quietly enjoy my retirement away from any public spotlight. However, having received numerous telephone calls from relatives and friends, I have decided to respond.

The article purported to inform readers that I would not be renewing my contract. However, unlike the other newspapers, which dealt specifically with the subject at hand, the reporter proceeded to link the matter with the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing of the Auditor General’s (AG’s) Report on GECOM for 2011. In so doing, the reporter conveyed the impression that I was responsible for the financial management of GECOM in 2011. I was not.

I am aware that the Chronicle Newspaper had reporters

who were present at the hearing. Unlike other hearings that afternoon, that hearing had the presence of other reporters from all the local newspapers. The Chronicle reporter(s) ought to recall that, in my opening statement to the PAC, I clearly stated that I was not the Accounting Officer for GECOM for the Year 2011.

While I was being “hauled over the proverbial coals,” I pointed out that all the deficiencies in the 2011 AG’s Report took place under the stewardship of my predecessor. I was dealing with those matters, not as the person, Calvin Benn, but as the Acting Chief Elections Officer representing the affairs of GECOM, and was therefore required to answer the queries of the PAC in that capacity.

The newspaper article failed to make this distinction.

Except for the questions related to the stolen $435,000 (not $500,000.00), all other queries and issues were directly related to the Office of the CEO for the period 2006 – 2011.

In the circumstances, I think it is imperative that I

respond to the aforementioned newspaper article, lest an impressionable reader comes to the conclusion that my decision not to renew my contract was influenced by the issues emanating from the hearing of the PAC. CALVIN BENN

Editor’s Note:

THE Guyana Chronicle’s article on April 23, 2014, under the headline ‘Deputy CEO Calvin Benn opts not to renew contract with GECOM’ included details that were revealed at a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting on February 3, 2014, and was in no way meant to bring Mr. Benn to any form of disrepute.

A Chronicle reporter was present at the meeting, and the details in the April 23, 2014 article were no different from those included in the report of February 4, outlining the proceedings of the PAC.

Youths role in mitigating climate change effect paramount to ...

(From page 4) born, and that its founding was very much the Region’s collective aspiration for growth, wellbeing and prosperity for the Caribbean people; an aspiration that the bank has been fittingly fulfilling, he said.

Guyana’s proactive stand on the issue of climate change was also noted during Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony’s address. He spoke at length on use of the LCDS to build Guyana’s economy and at the same time to combat climate change.

Minister Anthony also highlighted the other areas in which Guyana is seeking to move to the use of alternative energy and in so doing reducing its cost of carbon dioxide emission into the environment. “In Guyana we have been pressing for the development of our hydro-project, again it is in keeping with this new source, because if you get your energy from a renewable source you will be contributing less carbon dioxide to the atmosphere,” he said.

Guyana has also been working in the hinterland to provide solar panels and to use solar energy to provide electrification, even as it explores the use of wind, Dr. Anthony noted. “...we hope that each one of you will understand the dangers that we face, not only in Guyana, but around the world and that we will all become not just advocates, but become very active in doing our part and getting our organisations and region to do their part in mitigating some of the changes

that are happening in our climate,” Minister Anthony told the participants.

In addition to providing a background on the bank and Vybzing, Vice President (Corporate Services) and Bank Secretary, CDB, Yvette Lemonias-Seale also advised that the selection of this year’s theme for the youth forum was deliberate. “The fact is that we need you the youths, our countries need you, our Region needs you, to be part of the solution, part of the fix and not just because you and your children and their children would be impacted, but because you are who you are; you are innovators, you are fearless, you have an unparallel appreciation and mastery of the technology, which we do not,” she posited.

“You have an opportunity to think locally, to step back and think how in your own communities you can make a difference to how climate change impacts our lives and our future,” she pointed out.

As part of the Vybzing forum, (in addition to creating in the youths a better understanding of the issue and to communicate this understanding to communities throughout Guyana), the youths are encouraged to develop and submit to CDB a proposal on how to solve the issue of climate change in their community.

The bank will provide a grant for the design and implementation of a community-based climate change project, that is youth led and youth-development. The bank will also provide a team to work with the youths on the development of the project.

For Friday May 23, 2014 -13:00hrs For Saturday May 24, 2014 -14:00hrs For Sunday May 25, 2014 -14:30hrs

Youth at the CDB’s Vybzing Guyana Forum at the Grand Coastal Inn

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

At NAACIE’s 52nd Delegates Conference…

Ashton Chase calls on Guyana’s Labour Movement to unite - says current division ‘a backward step’

By Shirley Thomas HONORARY Member of the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), Mr. Ashton Chase, S.C., O.E., said division in Guyana’s Trade Union Movement is a backward step, and that “the movement should be united.”

The Senior Counsel made this remark as he delivered the feature address at NAACIE’s 52nd Delegates (2nd Triennial) Conference held at the Umana Yana on Wednesday under the theme: “Reorganising the Union for Greater Unity and Workers’ Strength”.

Putting into perspective the role of unity within the trade union movement, Mr Chase affirmed, “After all, the essence and base of trade unionism is unity;

sors, sugar boilers, headmen, and other administrative staff.

He pointed to the robust move the union had made in reducing the number of trade unions and enhancing the unity of the labour movement, adding that in due course its name was changed to the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE).

“With this came an extension of its field membership, effectively encompassing entities such as the Guyana Power and Light Inc; BOSAI (Bauxite workers); National Frequency Management Unit and the Caribbean Containers – a classic demonstration of forging unity within the movement,” Chase stated.

He added that it is significant that the conference was being held in the month of May, a significant month for the Labour Movement, the first Labour Day being observed on May 1, 1930, and May Day being observed as a public holiday from 1958.

Thereafter, he noted differences were observed in the movement in earlier years.

BLACKLISTING “But this May (2014), like those in recent times, has punctuated the division in our Trade Union Movement (with) the GTUC on one side and FI-

stated emphatically that, “blacklisting of our country is most damaging. The whole country and its inhabitants will feel the adverse effects. It is going to be devastating to the country.”

Mr. Chase cautioned that in such gigantic swirl, party political differences should have no place. He considered it a matter of profound regret that the Labour Movement is not united and working together to avert ‘this torrent’ that will befall the country – not for a short period, but for a long time.

Meanwhile, turning his attention to sugar, the base on which NAACIE started, Mr. Chase lamented that, from being for years the leading contributor to Guyana’s economy, then the second most important contributor, sugar has now ceased to be a contributor.

“Instead, it is heavily reliant on the state’s support for its very existence and full-time operation,” he said.

Mr Chase noted that the huge investment that represents the Skeldon factory modernisation appears up to now to be a further and serious loss to the industry and to the country. He told the scores assembled for the conference, “Your union cannot but have a deep and abiding interest in what is taking place in the sugar industry, and to be ready to make a contribution to ensure that its total failure, as envisaged by some, does not come to pass.”

He called for the union to have an overwhelming interest in seeing the sugar industry properly managed, with cost effective and competitive production.

Mr. Ashton Chase delivers the feature address at the opening of NAACIE’s 52nd Delegates (2nd Triennial) Conference, at the Umana Yana on Wednesday (Cullen Bess-Nelson photos) and in Unity there is strength.”

He complimented the President of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), Mr. Carvil Duncan, whom he said, after internal and unpublicised efforts this year, publicly put out the invitation to the TUC for the two bodies to become united into one.

“FITUG, of which your union is a member, should be congratulated on its effort to secure a united body,” Chase said, adding it should be noted that this approach was not through weakness or fear, as FITUG is numerically a far stronger body.

Chase said he hopes that the efforts of FITUIG bear fruit, and that, in a reasonable time, the two bodies would be united. “It is in the interest of the workers and the movement that this should be accomplished,” he declared.

Albeit, Mr. Chase commented, “The recent surprising objection by the TUC (or its General Secretary) of not accepting a unanimous decision of our divided Parliament to work together with FITUG in the management of Critchlow Labour College was an unfortunate decision.

Giving a background to the development of the 68-year-old movement and the contribution it made to fostering unity in Trade Unionism through the years, Mr. Chase recalled that the union was registered on December 12, 1946, and started as a sugar estate clerical body. In time it enlarged within the sugar industry, extending its membership to supervi-

At the NAACIE Delegates Conference: In photo, from left, are NAACIE’s Mr Dawchan Nagasar and Ms. Muriel D’Aguiar; Labour Minister Dr. Nanda Gopaul; Mr. Ashton Chase and Mr Kenneth Joseph, General Secretary of NAACIE TUG on the other side,” he said.

And noting that the commercial communities have made their voices heard on the Opposition’s non-supportive position in Parliament as it relates to passage of the crucial Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill, Mr. Chase expressed the view that a united trade union body should also be able to make its views heard thereon, and be respected by all concerned.

Making his view known on this matter, Chase

Chase opined that if the present ownership remains, the first step in this direction is the appointment, by the authorities, of a dedicated, experienced and productive management board. If, on the other hand, the ownership is different, then those who assume this responsibility may be relied on to re-direct the industry to its prosperous days.

Chase also called for elimination of water See page 10

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

9

Contractors, consulting and supervising firms have equal responsibility to produce quality work - Finance Minister FINANCE Minister Dr. Ashni Singh yesterday issued a call for equal responsibility to be allocated to contractors, as well as supervisors, for work conducted under contracts allocated by Government and other agencies.

The call was made at the opening of a two-day workshop attended by companies and professionals based in Guyana, involved in implementing sub-projects financed by the Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB) Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF). The participants are expected to receive critical information on the procedures and requirements governing the BNTF programme’s procurement process and proper supervision.

The Finance Minister challenged officials of the BNTF and the CDB to develop a mechanism to hold persons accountable for executing contracts which would redound to the benefit of society as a whole.

The workshop comprised of engineering consultants in Guyana who design and supervise works for the implementation of BNTF sub-projects. Firms which were recently identified through a request for expressions of interest are also

Head of Procurement for the CDB, Mr. Norman Cameron addressing participants at the workshop

benefiting from the capacity building event.

Minister Singh stated that Guyana greatly values the role of the CDB, describing it as a “truly reliable and responsive partner”. He went on to highlight the Bank’s BNTF programme noting that its design enables the programme to “literally touch people’s lives.”

The Minister stressed the need for engineering consultants to be more serious about their responsibility for the quality of work produced. He cautioned that there are repercussions for their credibility as service providers for BNTF, and other programmes in Guyana. He insisted on equal responsibility for contractors, consulting and supervising firms which participate in executing and supervising the work stipulated under the contract.

The minister also noted that while variation may be necessary as designs are adapted, contractors who are bidding for contracts are expected to be aware of this. He reiterated the call for a way to be found to hold persons accountable for contracts that are not carried out in the manner stipulated in agreements made.

“How do we better hold those contracted to prepare designs for us accountable for the quality of those designs?”

Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh addressing yesterday’s CDB workshop

he asked. The minister further questioned that should those designs subsequently be found to be inadequate or deficient one way or another, “What instrument do we hold to secure accountability for those designs?”

“I want equally a mechanism to be able to hold supervising firms accountable,” the Minister declared. He pointed out that it was these firms which would sign off on projects indicating that they were completed according to agreements made.

Head of Procurement for the CDB, Norman Cameron agreed with the concerns raised by Minister Singh and promised to raise the issue next week at an International Conference he is scheduled to attend. He added that it had been noted that methods of redress have been sought before.

Ms. Darran Newman Belgrave, Portfolio Manager of BNTF, said CDB is committed to the continuous improvement in the performance of its BNTF programme. One of the key underpinnings of the programme, he said, is the governing procurement procedures. “As such, it is important that we reiterate the essentials for a successful procurement process to the implementing agency, and consultants who partner with other groups to implement sub-projects, to mitigate risks and ensure that procedures for probity and accountability are diligently followed,” Belgrave said.

Topics to be covered during the workshop include the pre-qualification process; the evaluation criteria; important considerations for national competitive bidding; bid evaluation and reporting; the consultant’s role in environmental management and assessment; and the revised Consultants Agreement.

The workshop which takes place at the Grand Coastal Hotel, follows a similar workshop held last month in Jamaica for consultants working on BNTF and Community Investment Projects (CIP).

It precedes the CDB’s 44th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors on May 28 and 29, 2014 at the Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC).

East Ruimveldt residents appeal…

Get your act together, GPL! THE Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) is being called upon to get its act together, as residents of East Ruimveldt are warning that if their concerns are not addressed, they will picket the power company.

Residents of that Georgetown ward are up-in-arm over a GPL pole which has been rotting for months now. According to information received, the post (pole) broke four nights ago, causing residents in the area much discomfort.

This kite tail is the only thing preventing this high tension wire from touching the passageway of an alleyway which residents use as a main pathway.(Cullen Bess-Nelson photos)

The Chronicle was informed that after the post broke on Monday night, the area began experiencing continuous power fluctuations, which have so far (allegedly) damaged a few appliances.

Residents say a crew from GPL showed up in the area and inspected the pole, but never returned. The pole, now compromised, is said to be responsible for supplying power to approximately 20 homes in the community. (Leroy Smith)

This compromised pole has being causing East Ruimveldt residents all sorts of discomfort

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

During Red House lecture hosted by the PPP…

Russian Ambassador educates Guyanese public on current Ukraine crisis situation

By Ravin Singh WITH many Guyanese unfamiliar about the current situation between Russia and Ukraine, more specifically Crimea, the People’s

attendance were PPP General Secretary, Mr. Clement Rohee and scores of party supporters.

Mr Rohee explained that the lecture was aimed at educating the public on the

policies,” the PPP General Secretary said, noting the importance of these occasions to the public.

Ambassador Smirnov said, in his lecture, that the Russian Federation has ex-

Ukrainian President, Viktor Yanukovych postponed the signing of Ukraine/European Union Association Agreement.

INDEPENDENTLY DRIVEN Smirnov noted that the decision was an independently driven one which would have fostered better economical development for Ukraine.

“Russia has helped heavily in boosting the economy of Ukraine,” he said.

As a result, President Yanukovych was forced to seek refuge in Russia after attempts were made by anti-Russian civilians to kill him. Ukraine’s police and military troops, who were

forced to retreat, also attempted to calm the situation but were greeted with grenades, poisonous gases and use of extreme violence, the diplomat said.

Smirnov also expounded on the fact that Russia did not seize Crimea and assume control of the province as, according to him, Crimea has always considered itself independent and called for a referendum, which revealed a stunning 96 percent of people were in support of Crimea’s inclusion into the Russian Federation.

“The choice made by Crimean residents should be respected... we did not want any tanks, any nationalist combat units or people with extreme views armed with

automatic weapons there. Of course, the Russian servicemen did back the Crimean self-defence forces. They acted in a civil but a decisive and professional manner,” Smirnov said.

He concluded by noting that while the United Nations and African Union do not recognise Crimea’s independence, it has been established from Ukraine in keeping with the International Law. The lecture concluded at around 18:00 hrs as members of the audience expressed their appreciation for the efforts of the PPP and the Russian Embassy to educate the Guyanese public on international issues.

Russian Ambassador to Guyana, Mr Nikolay Smirnov, delivers his lecture.

Seated at head-table, from left, are Permanent Secretary at Ministry of Local Government, Mr Collin Groal; PPP General Secretary, Mr Clement Rohee and Advisor to the President, Mr Shyam Nokta Progressive Party (PPP) hosted a lecture on Monday to educate its supporters on the issue.

The talk was given by Russian Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Nikolay Smirnov, at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (Red House) in High Street, Kingston, Georgetown and among those in

present political and social issues enveloping Russia and Ukraine.

He said such initiatives were launched by the late former President, Dr Cheddi Jagan, who sought to educate his party comrades on international policies.

“Foreign policy is a reflection of local or domestic

tended and will continue to extend their supportive arm towards Ukraine during crises.

At the end of 2013, Euromaidan protests (around 400,000 to 800,000 people in Kiev and hun dreds of thousands in other Ukrainian cities and abroad) began after

Scores of Guyanese who were present at the lecture at Red House

Ashton Chase calls on Guyana’s Labour ... from page 8 around the sugar cane fields, adding that the comparative scarcity of sugar harvesters (cane cutters) is also an issue that requires urgent attention.

Other issues of concern he identified include: * The matter of sums due to the industry and its debts * The modernisation of the industry as a whole, and its involvement in profitable by-products Joining NAACIE in celebration at the opening of their 52nd Delegates Conference were Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda Gopaul and representatives of sister trade unions including President of the GTUC, Mr. Norris Whitter; President of the GPSU, Patrick Yarde; President of the CCWU, Sherwood Clarke, and other representatives of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU); National Union of Public Service Employees (NUPSE): Guyana Teachers’ Union – all of whom brought messages on behalf of their Unions.

A section of the gathering at the Umana Yana

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

Members, non-members of COFCOR must deepen relations - Rodrigues-Birkett CURRENT Chair of the Regional Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, on Tuesday last called for Member and non-Member States to deepen relations.

Speaking at the 17th meeting of COFCOR, in the Guyana International Conference Cen-

which led to agreement for cooperation in several areas including tourism, an industry in which Barbados has a wealth of experience and one which Guyana is trying to grow.”

Continuing, she said: “Guyana is also collaborating with Suriname in several areas and with Trinidad and Tobago. We now have students from St. Vincent and The Grenadines at the Guyana School of Agriculture and, very soon, we are expected to have some from Belize.”

MUTUAL BENEFIT The COFCOR Chair added that countries with shared interests must take advantage of each other’s strengths for the mutual benefit of their peoples.

“This can only lead to a more integrated Region with a renewed confidence of our people in its relevance and

Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett tre, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, she urged colleague Ministers to recognise the potential for strengthening ties in the interest of the Region’s development as a whole.

“We must encourage more functional cooperation and look inwards to develop synergies,” she suggested, adding that: “Guyana and Barbados resuscitated their Joint Commission Mechanism and, last October, my Colleague Minister McLean and I had very substantial discussions here,

worth,” she said.

According to her, regional leaders have been tasked by their respective Heads of Government to address the issue of joint diplomatic representation, an issue that had once been perennial on the agenda of the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

“It is an agenda that we must now, again, confront with renewed fervour. If developed countries, with much more human and financial resources than we have, can pursue with each other shared space of diplomatic premises or, as in the case of the Pacific Alliance countries, establish measures in the area of consular assistance to benefit their nationals, then our small community of nations must recognise the merit of adopting either these or similar options and, of course, we will be examining this in detail,” Rodrigues-Birkett said.

O n C O F C O R ’s p ro -

gramme this year is the CARICOM-Canada Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiation and regional positions on sev-

eral matters impacting multilateral relations, including the United Nations post 2015 development agenda and the

third international conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) later in 2014. (Vanessa Narine)

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

GTC, GPTWU pension petition sent to Select Committee

By Vanessa Narine

AFC Member of Parliament (MP) Trevor Williams, on Thursday, tabled a petition on behalf of retired employees of Guyana Telecommunications Corporation (GTC), active servants of Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) and Guyana Postal and Telecommunications Workers Union (GPTWU).

And the House voted to send the appeal to a Parliamentary Select Committee, as it addresses a request by retired and active employees of the utility to be paid in accordance with the Pensions Act, which is enshrined in the Constitution of Guyana.

The measure also calls for the Minister of Finance Dr. Ashni Singh to state the reason preventing the responsible agency from affecting payment of the correct remuneration that is just and due to pensioners and when it would be effected.

The petition was seconded by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) frontbencher Carl Greenidge, who noted that the matter of pensions payment is long outstanding and should be dealt with fairly and expeditiously, a process the Select Committee will ensure.

The petitioners are asking that: “Whereas by way of correspondence dated February 10, 2000, from Mr. Winston Brass-

ington, Executive Secretary and Head of the Privatisation Unit to Ms. Carol Hebert, former Secretary to the Treasury, on the payment of pension benefits to former employees of GTC, he stated that it was the Privatisation Unit’s view that those employees who would have fallen in this bracket and would have attained the age of 55 and were still employed by GT&T should have been paid their retirement benefits because it was monies already earned by them and in fact they should have been paid since 1991 when the company was privatised as is the practice.

“He also stated that there were several employees who had accepted the termination offer and had not yet been paid. He recommended that those employees also be paid their pension and gratuity as computed as at January 31, 1991.

“And whereas by way of correspondence, dated January 31, 2001, addressed to Mr. Winston Brassington, Executive Secretary and Head of the Privatisation Unit, Lot 126 Barrack Street, Kingston, Georgetown, from Mr. Godfrey Statia, Consultant, Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, on the valuation of GT&T Pension Fund, he informed Mr. Brassington that ‘Emanating from his letter of October 11, 2000, he had met with representatives in late October 2000 and, at that meeting, it was agreed that it would have been futile to continue discussions or make any decisions until the amount needed to be invested by the Government into the fund, so as to allow for the unification of plans for the benefit of past GTC See page 13

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

After Parliament approval…

Education Ministry working on logistics for $10,000 grant disbursement – Dr. Manickchand

Education Minister, Dr. Priya Manickchand, explains that efforts are ongoing to address the logistics of the disbursement of the $10,000 grant for children in public schools

GTC, GPTWU pension petition ...

From page 12 employees who were in the employ of GT&T and for whom the Government is liable for the payment of pensions based on the terms of the purchase agreement between the Guyana Government and ATN, was ascertained.

“And whereas with reference to the Agreement of Sale between the Government of Guyana and Atlantic Tele Network, with respect to employees’ crossover from the Guyana Telecommunication Corporation to Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, Mr. Winston Brassington, Executive Secretary and Head of the Privatisation Unit, in a correspondence dated February 10, 2000, to Ms. Carol Hebert, Secretary to the Treasury of the Ministry of Finance, on the payment of pension benefit to former employees of GT&T stated that ‘employees will continue in employment with GT&T and their services will be treated as continuous and unbroken and other conditions of service will not be less favourable than which they enjoyed and that they were guaranteed employment with GT&T for a period of eighteen (18) months, subject, of course, to right of the management to dismiss or discharge them for cause’.”

The petition was premised on the recognition of the enormous contributions and sustained development of telecommunications in Guyana, through years of dedicated service by retired employees of the GT&T and former employees of the GTC.

By Vanessa Narine THE Ministry of Education is still working on the logistics for the disbursement of the $10,000 grant for children in public schools, according to the Education Minister, Dr. Priya Manickchand.

She made the disclosure in the National Assembly Wednesday night, in answer to a question from A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) and

Shadow Education Minister Amna Ally, requiring an oral reply.

The Opposition MP queried what mechanism would be employed by the Education Ministry to disburse the monies promised in Budget 2014.

The expenditure was approved by the House during the 2014 Budget debates in April and was one of several measures announced by Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni See page 14

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

Education Ministry working on logistics ...

From page 13

Singh, to contribute to the improvement of the lives of the Guyanese people.

The provision caters for each nursery, primary and secondary school student in Guyana.

Manickchand said the process of finalising the mecha-

nisms should be completed within another three weeks.

She explained that the current challenge relates to the fact that the public education system has over 188,000 students and time is needed to examine all the possible facilities that can be used to disburse the monies.

The minister noted, too, that her Ministry is working with parents and private partners to ensure that the children receive

Shadow Education Minister, Amna Ally, queries what mechanism will be used in the disbursement (Adrian Narine photos) the promised benefit.

After the announcement of the financial support, Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr. Roger Luncheon said, in April, that Cabinet was exploring ways through which the $10,000 per child cash grant can be paid.

“The main focus is access…whether the access would be unfettered, essentially open-ended and the parents have absolute discretion…,” the HPS stated.

CASHLESS TRANSACTION He added that Cabinet is also looking at ways through which the disbursement could contribute to a cashless transaction or at least promote the development of financial services in Guyana.

The Ministries of Finance and Education and entrepreneurs alike have all recognised that handling disbursements in that manner can enhance the improvement of the financial sector, he asserted.

Dr. Luncheon said ‘cashless’ does not involve an actual cash transfer; instead, a voucher can be given to the parents as is done in the uniform assistance programme, whereby specific items of clothing and other school requirements can be purchased.

He noted that the other possibility is not exactly cashless, whereby public officers could receive this grant along with their salaries and other emoluments which are deposited in bank accounts.

This cash grant initiative by the Government will benefit approximately 188,406 families and will cost a total of $2B.

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

Colwyn Harding’s file now with Crime Chief

By Leroy Smith CRIME Chief Leslie James was up to yesterday perusing the file pertaining to the Colwyn Harding case. The file was sent to the Crime Chief just after lunch on Wednesday by Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority, (Rt’d) Justice Cecil Kennard, and both officials have confirmed this.

Justice Kennard said he really hopes the file does not have to return to him for any other deliberation.

In an interview with the Chronicle, Kennard said that additional statements presented to him really helped to clear up all the other questions being asked.

The statements which were requested and added to the file have served to cover all the areas that needed covering, he said.

The journey of the file includes its sending from the PCA office to the Crime Chief, then to the Police Commissioner, who will then forward it to the

Chamber of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Justice Kennard said he recommended in the report that criminal charges be laid against two of the police ranks in the matter, while four others, including senior ranks, are to be disciplined departmentally.

Kennard said the matter has been engaging the attention of the various offices since November of last year, and it is about time the matter be sent

to the court, or action which has to be taken at the various levels be served.

Colwyn Harding was reportedly raped with a baton by a police officer while he was in custody, and ill-treated by other ranks of the Timehri Police Station where he was being detained at the time.

There has been much unease in society with respect to the investigations into the Colwyn Harding matter, causing many to suggest that the police are taking their very own time in investigating their own.

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

After visiting hinterland...

Fire Chief reports enthusiasm among volunteers

By Michel Outridge

CHIEF Fire Officer, Marlon Gentle, said after a visit to the Kwakwani and Mahdia Stations last week, that the equipment was well kept and the volunteers of the auxiliaries are enthusiastic about their work in those outlying communities.

He disclosed that the

18 volunteers are being paid a stipend to upkeep the equipment and man the auxiliaries so they can respond in a timely manner if there is a fire.

Gentle said he is satisfied with what he saw and it shows they will continue to work diligently to fight fires.

The Fire Chief announced that, next week,

he will be visiting Lethem, Port Kaituma and Mabaruma Stations to observe the operations there as well.

Last year 18 volunteers successfully completed a one-week beginners training programme, through the Hinterland Fire Protection Plan, which prepared them to man the stations in their communities.

Gentle explained that, under that plan, Lethem, Mahdia, Kwakwani, Mabaruma, Kumaka and Port Kaituma were provided with fire fighting capabilities.

He also pointed out that the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has grown over the years from having five illequipped stations to a total of 15, which are outfitted with modern fire fighting vehicles and equipment countrywide.

PERSISTENT CRITICISMS Gentle said notwithstanding persistent criticisms, the GFS has made significant strides as an organisation within recent times.

Meanwhile, he revealed that all the activities undertaken during 2010 resulted from the implementation

of the GFS Strategic Plan and the Hinterland Fire Protection Plan.

Gentle said, further, that work will advance this year towards fully implementing both plans, following efforts in 2010 to decentralise operations and ensure that outlying communities are the recipients of better fire fighting services, the last of which has been achieved with support from the business sector and public-spirited citizens.

He said the void which previously existed in the GFS reaching the outlying areas was filled with the introduction of the Hinterland Plan.

The importance of expanding the services was emphasised in recent times by the rapid growth and development witnessed in the hinterland communi-

Chief Fire Officer Marlon Gentle ties.

The places targeted include Kumaka, Port Kaituma, Moruca, Mabaruma, Lethem, Mahdia and Kwakwani and the strategy envisages a partnership between residents, who have shown a high level of interest and the GFS.

Cabinet resolves to have normalcy return to M&CC

- full force of the law and Court’s ruling will be used in this regard

By Telesha Ramnarine HEAD of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr. Roger Luncheon, said yesterday, that it is Cabinet’s resolve to use, to the fullest extent possible, the full force of the law and the Court’s ruling to have a state of “normalcy” return to the Mayor and City Council (M&CC).

Speaking at his weekly media conference at Office of the President, Shiv Chanderpaul Drive in Georgetown, he said Cabinet, specifically, was interested in the actions being taken by Mayor Hamilton Green and his acolytes.

Such actions exposed them to contempt citations with specific regards to the rulings of the Acting Chief Justice on their matter, Dr Luncheon said.

Furthermore, he said specific attention was paid to their acts of interference with Acting Town Clerk, Carol Sooba, while discharging her statutory functions.

Luncheon said Cabinet also noted the ongoing hearings at the Court of Appeal where the appeal efforts made against the rulings of the Chief Justice were being addressed.

Meanwhile, Sooba, last week, filed a motion in the High Court which was heard by Acting Chief Justice, Ian Chang, who issued eight orders to Mayor Hamilton Green and the City Council over several actions taken, including that of the appointment of Royston King as Town Clerk.

The first, an Order or Rule Nisi of Certiorari stipulates that Green must “quash” his decision to swear in King to the office of Town Clerk, unless cause is shown, on the grounds and reasons that the decision is unlawful, ultra vires, irrational, unreasonable, wholly in excess of jurisdiction, null, void and of no legal effect.

The edict added that King’s holding of the office of Town Clerk is “without lawful authority whatsoever, appointment and or in furtherance of the elections and/or appointment”

by Hamilton Green. Any action contrary, without a statement of grounds and reasons, is unlawful, ultra vires, irrational, unreasonable, wholly in excess of jurisdiction, null, void and of no legal effect.

Sooba’s application was made by attorney-at-law, Mr. Roysdale Forde and the case was adjourned to yesterday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

GT&T, Culture Ministry to sign MOU for books publication

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company Limited (GT&T) and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport will today sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will see the publication of three books documenting various pieces of art from the National Art Gallery.

The publications will be done over a three year period.

The MOU is slated to be signed at Cara Lodge in Georgetown by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, and GT&T’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. R.K. Sharma.

Mr. R. K. Sharma

Dr. Frank Anthony

Education Ministry expanding Portuguese Programme in Guyana - new teachers to be trained

THE Ministry of Education will be launching its Portuguese Training Programme for teachers, today.

The ministry, last year, introduced the new modern/foreign language programme in six schools in Guyana. The Portuguese Curriculum guides, which were developed by local Modern Language Teachers,

Education Minister Priya Manickchand were launched on October 17, 2013. The ministry is now seeking to expand the

programme by introducing the Portuguese Curriculum to an additional 15 schools in 2014. To this end, the ministry will be conducting training to equip teachers with the necessary skills to deliver same.

Minister of Education, Hon. Priya Manickchand and Ministry Officials will be in attendance at today’s event.

17

Through CDB, CIDA grant…

$80.5M secured for Paramakatoi school completion

By Ravin Singh

MINISTER of Education, Ms. Priya Manickchand, disclosed in Parliament, Wednesday, that work on the Paramakatoi Primary School was negatively affected by time lapses and the continual shortage of materials, workers, machinery and equipment.

She gave the information when responding to a question posed by Alliance For Change (AFC) Member of Parliament, June Marcello, who asked, why construction of the school, which began in April 2012, had not been completed, and when is it expected to be completed.

Manickchand explained that shortages of the resources previously mentioned, coupled with the abandonment of the project by the contractor in March, 2013, and the cessation of work for approximately five weeks led to the termination of the contract on April 22, 2013.

According to the Minister, in October 2013, the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) applied to the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) for, and obtained a ‘no-objection’ to re-tender for the completion of the building.

“The project was advertised publicly for twenty-eight days, as per CDB procurement guidelines and bids were opened on October 18, 2013,” she informed.

The minister continued that a contract between the BNTF and Vishal Contracting Company was signed on November 29, 2013 for a construction period of seven and a half months and defects liability time of six months.

Manickchand confirmed that the commencement date

was January 29, 2014 and the completion is scheduled for August 30, 2014.

The job, which was estimated to cost $80.5M, and to ensure better comfort for younger children, has been highly welcomed by par-

ents of the primarily mining region.

Funding for the structure was made available through a grant from the CDB and the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). To this

extent, Guyana has already achieved the Millennium Development Goal of Universal Primary Education and is working assiduously towards attaining the secondary level, the National Assembly was told.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

2011 prison escapee back in gaol Murdered VINOOD Gopaul, alias ‘Magga,’ who escaped from custody on June 11, 2011

while serving time at the New Amsterdam Prison, is now back behind bars after

appearing before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh at the Albion Court.

He was refused bail after the indictable charge, for which he was not required to plea, was read to him.

He was remanded to prison, and is expected to attend the New Amsterdam Court on June 9 for a report.

Gopaul also faces a robbery-under-arms charge, allegedly committed on April 22 last at Yakasari, North Black Bush Polder, when, armed with a gun, he entered the home of Brijnauth Niwaz, 58, and beat and robbed him and his wife, Kalawattie, of $1.7M. Reports are that the police later found an improvised shotgun not too far from the scene of the crime.

That case has been transferred to the Mibicuri Magistrate Court, where it will be heard on June 3.

Gopaul, who had been on the run for almost three years, was recaptured last Sunday during a sting operation in the agricultural community of Black Bush Polder. He had been listed to stand trial for murder at the Berbice Criminal Court, but is now freed from that indictment after the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) filed a null prosequi in his favour.

The charge against him was for allegedly murdering his father while still a teenager. His June, 2011, escape from prison was his second; he had almost completed serving a five-year sentence on an escape-from-lawful-custody charge.

In the first instance, Gopaul was among 18 prisoners who escaped from the New Amsterdam Prison in August 2007. His freedom back then was short-lived, as he was recaptured soon after his escape at Edinburg Village, East Bank, Berbice.

Prior to his arrest on Sunday, sleuths had learnt that Gopaul would visit his residence from time to time, but always fled to the ‘backdam’ whenever he recieved a tipoff that the police were on his trail.

Four days earlier, he was spotted at a ‘wake,’ but had been long gone when the police swooped down at the house. Consequently, a dragnet was set up around his home, and this time around, he was not able to escape, despite his best effort.

teen sustained penetrating wounds to several vital organs

GOVERNMENT pathologist, Dr. Vivikanand Brijmohan, has confirmed that 18-year-old Oneka Omika Greaves of Caracas died as a result of shock and haemorrhage, and a penetrated wound to the kidney.

The teenage mother also sustained incised wounds to the spine, pancreas, diaphragm, and elsewhere, according to the coroner’s report.

Greaves died during the wee hours of Tuesday morning, after being coerced by the father of her four-monthold daughter into returning to Berbice with him. She was reportedly stabbed repeatedly while in the yard after venturing outside to wash her daughter’s nursing bottle.

The suspect, Robert Sandy,49, is currently an in-patient under police guard at the New Amsterdam Hospital, where he has been admitted after allegedly consuming the pesticide, gramoxone.

Medical personnel are reported being threatened by close associates of both the suspect and the deceased, and have since called on the relevant authorities to provide heightened security for Sandy.

Sandy, meanwhile, has given a statement to the police confessing to the crime, and expressed regret over the incident.

Greaves is expected to be buried over the weekend.

Missing Palmyra resident found dead in bed THE remains of 63-year-old Sunny Clifford, called ‘Sonny,’ of Palmyra Village, East Canje, Berbice was discovered in an advanced state of decomposition at his residence, ten days after he was last seen by neighbours.

The bottles from which he may have drank his alcoholic beverages were also found on the foam mattress where his body laid motionless, when the Guyana Chronicle visited, just before noon on Wednesday.

A relative of his, one Nadira Persaud, recounted that her uncle, who lived alone, was an habitual drunk, and that he suffered from tuberculosis.

“He did not work,” she said, “but sometimes he would stay away for two or three days and then come back. So when I did not see him, I was not worried.”

She said it was around mid-morning Wednesday that his neighbours complained of an obnoxious stench coming from her uncle’s home. “I got my son,” Nadira said, “and he accompanied me. When we got in the house, he was lying on the mattress, he clothes paste pun he body. Maggot deh all over he; like he dead since Mother’s Day.” The police are on the matter, and according to a report from the Government Pathologist, Dr. Vivikanand Brijmohan, there were no signs of foul play.

‘Sonny’ has since been buried at Alness Village, where he spent his boyhood years.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

Guyana’s female MPs form Steering Committee as avenue for consensus

- ahead of move to set up local CWP branch GUYANA’s female Members of Parliament (MPs) have unanimously supported the move to establish a Steering Committee which will meet once a month to address a number of issues, and more importantly, play a critical role functioning

as an avenue for consensus.

“It is expected that this committee will nurture the working relationship among female MPs on all sides of the National Assembly, as well as function as an avenue for consensus on important issues,” according to Public

Service Minister Dr. Jennifer Westford.

Minister Westford was at the time updating her colleague Members of Parliament (MPs) during Wednesday’s sitting of the House, on the outcome of a special meeting convened by

Speaker of the National Assembly Mr Raphael Trotman on Monday.

Westford said, “This committee is expected to run for one year and based on its performance, the establishment of a Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), Guyana Branch, will be determined.

She said it was also agreed that these issues will not be limited to those affecting women and children, but will also address matters within the legislative, political, economic and technological spheres, among others.

According to her, each political party represented in the National Assembly will be required to identify members to participate in the activities of the Steering Committee.

“Each political party is expected to identify a member to function as a coordinator, who will be tasked with identifying issues for the committee to focus on,” Dr Westford said.

ing the rest of the world in denouncing the kidnapping of the 300 Nigerian schoolgirls by terrorist organisation, Boko Haram.

“As Guyanese women Members of Parliament, we wish to express our grave concern over the abduction of approximately 300 teenage girls who were abducted from their school on April 15,” Dr Westford stated.

She pointed out that the committee joins with the government, civil society bodies, and regional and

FIRST INITIATIVE On Wednesday night, as its first initiative, the female MPs Steering Committee issued a joint statement, join-

Public Service Minister Dr Jennifer Westford in the National Assembly on Thursday.

international bodies in reiterating their strong condemnation of all acts of terrorism and crimes against humanity.

“Not only is it (the kidnapping) an abhorrent form of terrorism, but it is a gross violation of the basic human right to education and to the freedom of religion,” Minister Westford said.

The Committee, she said, will lend its support to the efforts being made by the Government of Nigeria and the international community to rescue the girls and expressed the hope for their personal security and for their safe return to their families.

The CWP was founded by women delegates at the 1989 plenary conference so women at future conferences could discuss ways to increase female representation in Parliament and work towards the mainstreaming of gender considerations in all CPA activities and programmes.

In 2004, the group was formally recognised in the CPA Constitution and its elected chairperson added to the CPA Executive Committee.

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 23, 2014

Preparations for national, regional flag-raising ceremonies on track of our achievement, I would urge everyone to have an introspection, but also reflect on the positive things that we have accomplished as a nation,” he said.

Meanwhile, the minister also reported that preparations for the national and regional flag-raising ceremonies are on schedule and persons can expect a bigger contingent of children performing during the grand flag-raising exercise at the National Park.

The packed agenda for this exercise on May 25, would see a number of performances from local artistes and 600, not the usual 400, children will execute the 20-minute cultural piece that is performed at the ceremony every year.

There will be a disDr Frank Anthony play by the Guyana Po(GINA), Minister Anthony lice Force (GFP), the Guysaid, “As a country we have ana Defence Force (GDF) achieved quite a lot, we and the Presidential Address have done extremely well by His Excellency Donald in the area of education, in Ramotar. the areas of sport, culture, A team from the GDF housing...over the last 48 will also be sent to Ayanganyears you would have seen na (the highest point in GuyGuyanese living standard ana) to climb the peak, and drastically improving, so we broadcast a message which have achieved and we should will be aired live during the be proud of those achieveflag-raising ceremony. ments. In this the 48th year AS Guyana’s 48th Independence Anniversary approaches, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony is calling on Guyanese to reflect on the gains made over the years, including the drastic increase in living standards.

Speaking with the Government Information Agency

The much anticipated fireworks display will culminate the flag- raising ceremony at the National Park.

The Ministry of Culture has responsibility for the national flag-raising ceremony while there will be flag-raising ceremonies in every region, executed by the regional authorities.

Minister Anthony reminded that a Cabinet Member will be in attendance, and will participate at each of these ceremonies.

Guyana gained its independence from Great Britain on May 26, 1966.

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Collison could play for Guyana at CBC Championship - Source

By Rawle Toney LOS ANGELES Clippers point guard Darren Collison could represent Guyana at this year’s CBC Championships in Tortola, according to a reliable source close to the former UCLA standout, providing that the player could get the “go-ahead” from his bosses.

“Darren has always been open to helping out the country of his parents.

He believes that it would a good way of giving back to Guyana through the sport he loves,” the source told the Guyana Chronicle in an exclusive interview.

President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) Nigel Hinds said he had reached out to the former Charlotte Hornets player but at the time, Collison was tied up in try-

ing to get his team past the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Play-Offs Western Conference Semi-Finals.

But the source also pointed out that they’re a number of things that need to be taken into consideration, including his NBA insurance and if the Clippers would allow him to participate.

In July of 2013, Los Angeles Clippers had signed Collison to a two-year deal with the point guard earning US$1.9M for the first year and became an unrestricted free agent after the Dallas Mavericks declined to offer him a US$4.5M contract, demoting him to a backup role behind Derek Fisher and Mike James.

After a fantastic rookie season playing alongside Chris Paul at the Charlotte Hornets, Collison was traded to the Indiana Pacers

England ease to comfortable win against Sri Lanka (REUTERS) - A combination of brutal batting and aggressive bowling ensured England beat Sri Lanka by 81 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis Method in a rain-interrupted first oneday international at the Oval yesterday.

All-rounder Chris Jordan bludgeoned 38 runs with the bat before claiming three wickets, as he staked his claim for a place in the England Test squad, while there were promising performances from relative newcomers Gary Ballance and Harry Gurney.

The hosts did not win the toss and were put in to bat by Sri Lanka and, having lost captain Alastair Cook (11) early in the innings, England progressed nicely with Ian Bell reg-

istering his 31st ODI fifty before being dismissed four balls later.

Torrential rain halted proceedings for 2-1/2 hours with the game being limited to 39 overs per side.

Upon resumption, Ballance top-scored with 64 and Joe Root added 45 before a swashbuckling cameo by Jordan of five fours and two sixes in a breathless knock of 38 from 13 balls as England scored 60 runs in the final four overs of their innings.

Sri Lanka’s reply got off to the worst possible start with James Anderson claiming the wicket of Lahiru Thirimanne inside the first over while star batsman Kumar Sangakkara was dismissed for just eight.

After a second rain delay Sri Lanka were set a revised target of 226 from 32 overs and Mahela Jayawardene top-scored with 35 as the visitors lost wickets at regular intervals, struggling to keep pace with the required run rate and eventually collapsing to 144 all out and a 1-0 deficit in the five-match series.

and lost his starting job to George Hill but has since been one of coach Doc Rivers’ go-to guys especially when Paul was injured.

But with the Clippers having to deal with the Donald Sterling saga, according to the source, Collison has a lot to think of administratively before donning the colours of the Golden Arrowhead.

“Based on the happenings of the NBA versus Donald Sterling saga, the Clippers administration would first want to try and keep their coach and other players who can opt out of their contract and exit. So presently, though for him, his season is over, there’s a lot going on that he has to focus on with his team to make the best possible decision,” the source said.

“The thing is he doesn’t only want to play,” the

source said, “He actually wants to probably have a leg of his summer camp in Guyana. Getting the right set of people to work along with has also been an issue, but I must say that he has been raised on Guyanese principles thanks to his parents, visited whenever his busy basketball schedule allowed and is very close to a few of his family living in Guyana.”

The GABF president also mentioned that they will move ahead and include Collison in their shortlisted squad which will be made public after the conclusion of the ongoing Inter-Association Championships.

Collison is eligible to play for Guyana through his parents Dennis Collison and June Griffith; both of whom would have represented their country in track and field internationally.

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CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

Compliments of THE TROPHY STALLBourda 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: 733 runs 22 wickets Today’s Quiz: How many runs Dwayne Smith made in his first game of this year’s IPL? How many IPL games have been scheduled for India in this year’s IPL? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

Suarez in race to make Brazil after shock surgery LUIS SUAREZ faces a race to be fit for the World Cup finals in Brazil after it was revealed the striker requires surgery following a knee injury.

The Liverpool forward went under the knife yesterday morning after an MRI revealed a meniscus injury in his knee, suffered in training with the national team and according to reports, the Uruguayan national team medical staff saw no other alternative than to send Suarez for an operation, even though the World Cup gets under way in three weeks’ time.

Recovery time tends to

Luis Suarez vary from player to player, but typically varies from two to six weeks, which could put the Uruguayan’s World Cup participation in doubt.

The Uruguay national team are confident that their

talisman will be fit to play a part in the tournament, but bookies responded by lengthening their odds of escaping from a tough group stage which includes England, Italy and Costa Rica - to 1/2.

Uruguay play Costa Rica on June 14, England five days later on the 19, then face a potentially crucial final group stage match against Italy on June 24.

It seems that even if Suarez recovers in time, he will certainly be short of match fitness.

That leaves Uruguay in trouble since their other top striker, Edinson Ca-

vani, has suffered a severe drop-off in form since going through a messy divorce in January.

A positive prognosis was also put forward by the player’s mother, who was quoted as saying that Suarez’s injury “wasn’t as serious as we thought”.

Suarez netted 31 league goals for Premier League runners-up Liverpool this season and was expected to be one of the stars in Brazil, though Uruguay’s chances of progressing out of a group that includes England, Italy and Costa Rica will take a significant hit if he is unable to return to full fitness.

Ben Dinnery, a trained physio and expert for Physioroom.com, said: “If the reports are true and his MRI results did in fact reveal a minor meniscus tear then it’s likely that he will have an operation known as a partial meniscectomy which will remove the torn cartilage.

“This procedure is particularly effective for small tears which affect the mechanical function of the knee; straightening, clicking or locking and the prognosis is good in both the short and long-term.

“Typically patients can expect a return to normal activity

within one month although strenuous exercise may be restricted. Without knowing the full extent the injury, it is difficult to predict an accurate timescale for his recovery, but it is more likely he will be targeting the Italy game on June 24 (33 days’ time).

“Chilean international Arturo Vidal underwent an almost identical procedure at the beginning of May and was recently passed ‘fully fit’ by the Juventus and Chile medical team, so at this stage it’s realistic that Suarez will still play a part in the tournament.”

(Eurosport)

New Zealand pacer not expecting much help from Caribbean pitches WELLINGTON, New Zealand (CMC) - Pacer Trent Boult says he is not expecting wickets friendly to fast bowlers in the Caribbean when New Zealand take on the West Indies in a threeTest series starting next month.

The Black Caps depart tomorrow, heading to Jamaica’s Montego Bay for a 10-day camp, which includes two warm-up games, ahead of the first Test in Jamaica, beginning on June 8.

Boult, who has formed

Trent Boult

a formidable partnership with Tim Southee as New Zealand’s dangerous new ball-duo, says the use of the new ball and the reverse swing will factor heavily in the outcome of matches.

“The wickets aren’t really going to be too pace bowler-friendly I guess. But it’s all part of it,” Boult said.

“It’s about Test cricket and it’s about touring. It’s going to be exciting”.

New Zealand recently surpassed Sri Lanka to reach No 6 in the ICC rankings,

having had a wonderful home summer in scoring series wins over both the Windies and India.

Against the West Indies, Boult, who has now moved to a career-high No 7 in the Test bowling rankings, totalled 20 wickets at 15.4.

“There are flat wickets in New Zealand, there are flat wickets everywhere, so using the new ball, using the swing is going to be important, and then reverse swing’s got to factor into it in the later part of the

innings,” said Boult who has played just 22 Tests but has 82 scalps to his name at the impressive average of 26.59.

“So if we can exploit those two things, as well as stay to our lines and stay to our plans, I think yeah, we’re going to be successful.

We’ve taken a lot of confidence out of what we’ve done to their lineup here in New Zealand.”

The Caribbean tour is Boult’s second since New Zealand’s disastrous tour of 2012.

South African Smith Police arrest Tiger Bay set to miss rest of in ‘A’ Division-sponsored football match English season (REUTERS) - Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith is set to miss the rest of the English county season with Surrey after suffering a fractured knee, the club said yesterday.

The 33-year-old opening batsman who played 117 Tests, 108 as captain, and scored over 9 000 runs before retiring from international cricket this year, will return home to undergo surgery, while

Graeme Smith

Surrey have signed his former South Africa team

mate Hashim Amla for the next month.

“Whilst it is obviously a huge blow for Graeme to be heading home, especially after his recent match-winning hundred, and with the impact he was having in the dressing room, we are very fortunate to be able to welcome back Hashim Amla for the next month,” Surrey director of cricket Alec Stewart told the club’s website.

THE POLICE Football Club last Wednesday demolished a Tiger Bay Football team 3-1 in the first of three matches to be played at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, after the latter were the recipients of football gear from Commander of ‘A Division within the Guyana Police Force, Clifton Hicken.

Mark Boyce opened the scoring for the lawmen and the game, before his teammate Randy Carroll found the back of the net for the second goal for the victo-

rious Police lineup, while Rondell Arthur sealed the win with his 80th minute strike, even as Rensford Coleridge pulled one back for Tiger Bay in the 88th minute.

Commander Hicken thanked both teams for their participation and he urged the residents of Tiger Bay to come out and support the event, with the second of three matches being played this afternoon at the same venue. The final one will take place tomorrow, following which the team that

winning two of the three matches will be rewarded with trophies and other prizes.

After the Tiger Bay/ Police matches, the next match will be Police against Buxton next Wednesday, while the lawmen will oppose Albouystown in another encounter one week from today.

Deputy Commander Dion Moore who was present at the match said that the reason for Tiger Bay losing is the lack of experience and being not fully equipped, adding that the victors trained on a daily basis in comparison to their opponents.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

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EAST COAST GUINNESS ‘GREATEST OF DE STREETS’

Melanie ‘A’ and BV ‘B’ to square off in tomorrow night’s final

MELANIE ‘A’ and Beterverwagting (BV) ‘B’ have earned the right to face each other in tomorrow night’s final of the second Banks DIH/Petra Organisation East Coast of Demerara Guinness ‘Greatest of De Streets’ Futsal competition, following their semifinal wins last Wednesday night at the Haslington Market Square.

Melanie ‘A’ defeated last year’s runners-up Victoria Church Yard United 2-0, thanks to a brace from Jamal George who found the back of the net in the 3rd and 5th minutes of play, while BV ‘B’ sent their counterparts from Melanie packing, with Erin Fraser scoring the lone goal of the contest in the 17th minute.

However, despite coming out on the losing end in their semifinal fixtures, both Victoria Church Yard United and Melanie ‘B’

… Victoria Church Yard and Melanie ‘B’ to meet for third place

Dwight Peters will be in action tomorrow, when they face each other in the third-place playoff, which will precede the final clash.

MARCHING ORDERS Fans who braved the overcast conditions to witness the action last Wednes-

day night, were privy to four exciting quarterfinals. In one of them defending champions Plaisance were given their marching orders out of the tournament at the hands of BV ‘B’.

Competing in the third quarterfinal match as the underdogs, BV ‘B’ had much to smile about when the final whistle was sounded, after Fraser broke the deadlock between the two sides and found the back of the net in the 19th minute to hand his team a 1-0 victory.

Prior to that upset, Victoria Church Yard United must have fancied their chances of going one step further than their second-placed finish last year when they lost 2-0 to Plaisance, following their 1-0 win over Paradise in the first quarterfinal fixture

GABF intensifies CBC outreach

… launches online donation THE GUYANA Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) is being more t h a n p ro a c t i v e i n i t s quest to ensure Guyana participates at this year’s Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championship which is set to bounce off on July 1 in the British province of Tortola.

President Nigel Hinds had previously stated that it would cost his administration US$60 000 to take both male and female teams to the event and as such, the country’s governing body of the sport has launched an online drive to gather support from the Guyanese community, especially reaching out to those overseas.

“The idea is to get everyone involved as much as possible. It’s not easy but I believe that they are good people out there who are willing to help us out. All we’re asking for is US$25 per donation and it’s simple.

You go to the Guyana Basketball website and

of the night, with Keyron Johnson scoring in the 13th minute.

This followed Melanie ‘A’s 3-2 penalty kicks win over BV ‘A’, after regulation time ended with the scores locked at three goals, with national striker Dwight Peters scoring a brace for Melanie ‘A’ in the 18th and 20th minutes, after Shermon Fraser opened their account with his 11th minute goal.

However, it was BV ‘A’, who, through a hat-trick of goals from Akin Curry, who

scored first, finding the back of the net in the 3rd, 12th and 17th minutes of play. In the end, though, they failed to convert all their kicks, thus handing Melanie ‘A’ the win and a semi-final spot.

The final quarter-final matchup of the night saw Melanie ‘B’ issue exit directions to Victoria Eagles, whom they needled 1-0, courtesy of Ryan Seales’ 19th minute goal.

In addition to their battle for the top prize of $300 000 and trophy with the

runner-up pocketing half that amount, both finalists have earned the right to compete in the national playoffs.

Already, Georgetown zone champions Queen Street/Tiger Bay, runners-up Stevedore Housing Scheme, third-place finishers Hope Street/Tiger Bay and the fourth-place Albouystown ‘B’, along with Eagles, Retrieve Unknowns and Scheme, out of Linden, have booked their spots in the national playoffs.

UDCA, BCC laud government, APNU over passage of Cricket Administration Bill

THE UPPER DEMERARA Cricket Association (UDCA) and the Buxton Cricket Club have lauded the Government of Guyana and the main opposition party, APNU for their efforts in ensuring the passage of the long-awaited Cricket Administration Bill 2012.

In a press release sent by the UDCA last Wednesday, the Association pointed out that the passage of the Bill was important, deeming it as a means of bringing back free and fair elections, proper accountability, resolution to the ongoing cricket crisis and more importantly, offers the opportunity for our youngsters to participate meaningfully in the promotion, and development of cricketers and cricket within our region and ultimately our country.

The UDCA expressed their disappointment with the opposition party, Alliance For Change (AFC), for not supporting the Bill taking into consideration they have always been very vocal on matters pertaining to accountability, legality, order, free and fair elections etc, all of which the Cricket Administration Bill 2012 seeks to correct within our shambolic cricket arena.

This policy of inconsistency of the AFC leaves one to wonder if there is any sincerity in their many articulations.

In recognising the importance of this landmark legislation and what it means to our region which has been ostracised for too long, we once again thank both the Government and APNU for their obvious interests.

Stage set for Everest centenary/ Independence dominoes

Nigel Hinds just follow the line and procedure of payment,” Hinds said.

At the time of this report, the GABF’s donation drive stood at $US750 out of just 10 donors and commenting on it, Hinds opined that his optimism of public support is strong.

Guyana are placed in Group B in the Men’s Championship alongside U.S. Virgin Islands, hosts BVI and Barbados while in the women’s category; they are placed alongside Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

THE EVEREST Cricket Club centenary dominoes tournament, which will also coincide with Guyana’s 48th Independence Anniversary celebrations, will now be held this Sunday after being rescheduled from a few Sundays ago.

The tournament is being staged as part of the club’s continuing year-round celebrations and involves 18 teams who will do battle on a two-round aggregate basis.

Double-six time is 12:00hrs.

The competition will see the winning team cart off $100 000 and a trophy, the first runners-up $80 000 and a trophy, third place $60 000 and a trophy and fourth $30 000 and a handshake.

Trophies for the first-, second- and third-placed teams are being donated by Trophy Stall and its Managing Director Ramesh Sunich, who is expected to make the presentations.

Entrance fee per team is $15 000 and among the teams scheduled to participate are Canal Six, Zeelugt Sports Club, Bath Settlement Sports Club, Berbice, Rooster, All Seasons Racing Service, Shop Six, Beacon, Top Point, One love, Providence, GCC, Police, Masters, Steve Jewelry, Top Gun, International Six Enforcers, Amateur Six and the hosts Everest.

Other interested teams are asked to contact Manniram Shew on 227-2249 or 6294105 or Deo Bissessar on 618-0217.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

Cavaliers contacted about number one pick trades (REUTERS) - Cleveland Cavaliers’ General Manager David Griffin has said that teams throughout the league have been contacting him about potential trades for the No.1 draft pick.

Griffin said the phone started ringing immediately after the Cavaliers won the NBA draft lottery last Tuesday night, adding he will be keeping an open mind leading into the June 26 draft.

The Cavs have won the number one pick in the draft for the second straight year and third

Joel Embiid time in the past four, moving up from the ninth spot despite just a 1.7 per cent chance of winning the top selection, prior to the draft.

The top picks in this year’s draft are expected to include two Kansas team-

Superb Narine cripples RCB, as Gayle fails again

KOLKATA, India (CMC) – Off-spinner Sunil Narine was superb but his West Indies teammate Chris Gayle proved ordinary, as Kolkata Knight Riders produced a clinical all-round performance, surging to a convincing 30-run victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore and into the playoffs of the Indian Premier League here yesterday.

Sent in at the historic Eden Gardens, Kolkata piled up 195 for four from their 20 overs, with opener Robin Uthappa pummelling 83 from 51 balls and Bangladeshi Shakib Al Hasan, 60 from 38 deliveries with five fours and three sixes.

In reply, RCB lost Gayle in the second over for just six and then failed to find the momentum to mount a proper run chase, ending on 165 for five.

Narine was the main destroyer, finishing with four for 20 from his four overs, and removing key batsmen at critical times.

The aggressive, left-handed Gayle faced nine deliveries and struck one four – a whip through square off seamer Umesh Yadav – but was trapped on his crease off the very next ball to fall lbw.

Gayle has scored 196 runs from nine innings at an average of 21, and a highest score of 46, while he scored just 14 in his last outing on Tuesday against Sunrisers.

Wicketkeeper Yogesh Takawale top-scored with 45 and captain Virat Kohli got 38, adding 85 for the second wicket, and threatening to rescue the innings.

However, Narine removed both in the 13th over – his third of the innings. He had Kohli taken at point off the third delivery, cutting one that bounced slightly and then removed Takawale three balls later, bowled playing on a delivery that turned sharply.

Yuvraj Singh took all his 22 runs from Yadav’s third over – the 16th of the innings – before Narine also took care of that threat.

The left-handed Yuvraj holed out to long on with the wily Trinidadian off the second ball of the next over and dangerous South African batsman AB de Villiers fell to the final delivery of the over, missing a sweep and being bowled off-stump for 13.

Narine’s double blow put the seal on the game for KKR, with the victory lifting them to third in the standings but level on points with second-placed Chennai Super Kings on 16 points.

mates, centre Joel Embiid and forward Andrew Wiggins, while other highly touted prospects include Kentucky forward Julius Randle and Duke forward Jabari Parker.

Sources told ESPN.com that the 7-foot Embiid is the early front-runner for the top pick as long as his back is OK. Indiana Pacers forward Paul George suffered a concussion after taking a knee to the back of the head during the loss to the Miami Heat in Game Two of the Eastern Conference finals.

George must now satisfy

all the protocols set forth in the NBA’s concussion policy before he can play Game Three of the series in Miami tomorrow. The series is tied 1-1.

George took a knee to the back of the head from Dwyane Wade with 6:49 left in the Heat’s 87-83 victory on Tuesday night.

The Los Angeles Lakers have interviewed Mike Dunleavy for their vacant head coaching job which has been open for a month since it was decided that Mike D’Antoni would not return for the 2014-15 season. Reports indicate that

the New York Knicks also are interested in Dunleavy as a possible candidate for their open coaching position.

The 60-year-old Dunleavy last coached in the NBA with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2010. In 17 seasons as a head coach, he compiled a 613-716 record and led teams to seven play-off appearances.

Memphis Grizzlies coach Dave Joerger has received permission to interview with the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are searching for a replacement for retired Rick Adelman.

Joerger, a Minnesota native whose professional ties to Wolves president Flip Saunders go back several years, led the Grizzlies to a 50-32 record and the seventh seed in the Western Conference play-offs.

Memphis lost in the deciding game of a best-ofseven series to Oklahoma City.

Indiana Pacers guard Lance Stephenson has been fined $5 000 for violating the anti-flopping rules during Game Two of the Eastern Conference finals, the league announced Wednesday.

Spurs rout Thunder to take two-game series lead (REUTERS) - The San Antonio Spurs put the Oklahoma City Thunder to the sword with a spectacular exhibition of shooting in the second half to tighten their grip on the Western Conference finals with a 112-77 win in Game Two last Wednesday night.

With All-Star point guard Tony Parker scoring a teamhigh 22 points and Danny Green pouring in a dazzling array of seven three-pointers, the Spurs sizzled on their home court to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.

Veteran forward Tim Duncan contributed 14 points and 12 rebounds while Manu Ginobili and Boris Diaw tallied 11 points apiece off the bench, as San Antonio who are aiming for a return to the NBA Finals had five players in double-figures, outshooting their opponents by 50 per cent to 39 from the field.

“In the second quarter, we moved the ball much better, got to our shooters,” Duncan, a 14-time All-Star who has won four NBA championship titles with the Spurs, said.

“Danny was obviously hot tonight and TP (Parker) was great just attacking, going straight by people.”

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook led the Thunder with 15 points each, but, for the second straight game, they sorely missed the shot-blocking skills of forward Serge Ibaka, who is out for the rest of the playoffs with a calf injury.

League MVP Durant and dynamic guard Westbrook, Oklahoma City’s one-two knockout punch, were restricted to a combined 13for-40 from the field, and Duncan was delighted.

“Work, work for everything,” Duncan said of San Antonio’s strategy against the usually high-scoring duo.

“Keep them off the free

throw line; make their shots as tough as possible. Those guys are great scorers, we know that, but we want to make them work for everything they get.”

The Thunder, adopting a more physical approach than in Monday’s Game One which they lost 122-105, made a fast start and withstood a sizzling 12-2 run by the Spurs to lead 26-24 after the first quarter.

However, San Antonio then turned on the style to take control as Green poured in three three-pointers and Ginobili added one of his own from beyond the arc to put the home team 58-44 up at halftime.

Roared on by increasingly vocal fans, the Spurs pulled further ahead with a stunning display of shooting from the field, a driving layup by Kawhi Leonard giving them a 29-point advantage before they ended the third quarter leading 91-62.

There was no way back from there for Oklahoma City as the San Antonio bench-players maintained control.

“I hope our locker doesn’t feel good,” Thunder coach Scott Brooks said. “You shouldn’t feel good. We got our butts kicked, but we have a good opportunity to come back and win Game Three.”

The series shifts to Oklahoma City where Game Three will be played on Sunday.

Two years ago, the Spurs took a commanding 2-0 lead in the Western Conference finals before losing to the Thunder in six games, and that remains a bitter memory for Duncan and his team mates.

“We will remind everybody of that situation,” said Duncan. “We go into Oklahoma for that first game with the focus that we will need to win two games there.”

Smith reaches 500 runs but Chennai lose thriller to Sunrisers RANCHI, India (CMC) – West Indies batsman Dwayne Smith missed out on another half-century but eclipsed the 500-run mark here yesterday, as his stellar season in the Indian Premier League continued.

He smashed a typically quick-fire 47 at the top of the order but it came in a losing effort as his Chennai Super Kings were out-gunned by the Darren Sammy-led Sunrisers Hyderabad in a exciting showdown at the JSCA International Stadium Complex.

Sent in, Chennai rattled up

an imposing 185 for three from their 20 overs but then watched as Sunrisers overhauled the total to win by six wickets, with four balls left in the innings.

Smith set the tone for the innings, crashing four fours and four sixes off just 28 balls, adding 33 from 21 deliveries with South African Faf du Plessis (19).

The big-hitting Barbadian also dominated a 35run stand for the second wicket with Suresh Raina (4), before falling lbw to leg-spinner Karin Sharma in the seventh over with the

score on 68.

Smith now has 501 runs for the IPL campaign, joining Indian Robin Uthappa (572) and Australians Glenn Maxwell (533) and David Warner (524).

Captain MS Dhoni then slammed 57 not out from 41 balls and David Hussey, an unbeaten 50 from 33 balls, to climax the innings with a thrilling unbroken 107-run, fourth-wicket partnership.

In reply, Sunrisers were handed a superb start by Warner who smashed 90 from 45 balls with 12 fours

and three sixes. He put on an explosive 116 for the first wicket with Shikhar Dhawan, who scored 64.

Warner was bowled by Australian fast bowler John Hastings in the 12th over but Dhawan and Naman Ojha (19) put on a further 52 for the second wicket to keep Sunrisers on course for a remarkable win.

With two runs required from the final over, Sammy fell without scoring trying to clear long on with a big hit and being caught inside the ropes.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

39

MACKESON ‘KEEP YOUR FIVE ALIVE’

Fourth edition kicks off tomorrow night at California Square

By Calvin Roberts

THE FOURTH edition of the Ansa McAl’s Mackeson ‘Keep Your Five Alive’ Futsal tournament will kick off tomorrow night on the California Square tarmac at 20:00hrs, with 32 teams consisting of not more than five registered players, doing battle for over $500 000 in cash and prizes.

According to the tournament’s coordinator Kevin Adonis, teams such as defending champions Sparta Boss are charged to keep fit, since the tournament will be played on a knockout basis. The regular teams in Georgetown can expect strong challenge from some out-of-town teams.

“This year, I have decided to include teams such as Victoria, Vryheid’s Lust, Plaisance, Beterverwagting, Melanie and La Parfaite Harmo-

nie, just to name a few, in the lineup and as you are aware some of the East Coast-based teams are coming off the back of a similar tournament.

“This means they will be fit and will present a strong challenge to the other teams, so I am calling on the teams to be fit in order to ‘Keep Your Five Alive’,” said Adonis, who emphasised on winning in order for teams to continue playing as there will be no second opportunities.

Teams are asked to note carefully, that only those who have been registered on the registration form will be allowed to compete, with no alterations being allowed during the course of the tournament, only in the case of injury which must occur during the playing of the competition.

“In addition to the tournament, there will be an Axe

halftime show compliments of that product’s main distributor in Guyana, DeSinco Trading, which is being dubbed the ‘Take and Shoot’ competition. Fabulous prizes will be up for grabs, along with the regular Mackeson giveaways,” said Adonis.

Apart from Ansa McAl and DeSinco Trading, some other sponsors of the tournament which has six playing days are; Colours Boutique, Clairan’s Boutique, Clear Water, Star Party Rentals, White Castle Fish Shop, and HJTV and its 94.1 Boom FM, just to name a few.

After tomorrow night, the action will return to the same venue the following night, while Albouystown will host next Saturday night’s play on the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall tarmac, the venue for the next three playing days which are June 7, 14 and 21 respectively.

Flashback! Last Year’s Ansa McAl’s Mackeson ‘Keep Your Five Alive’ Futsal tournament champions Sparta Boss strike a pose with Mackeson Brand Manager Jamaal Douglas (2nd right) and Tournament Coordinator Kevin Adonis (red jersey).

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Fourth edition kicks off tomorrow night at California Square (See Story on page 39)

Collison could play for Guyana at CBC Championship - Source (See Story on page 35)

Darren Collison is being challenged by OKC’s Kevin Durant during their NBA Play-Offs Western Conference Semi-Finals.

Melanie ‘A’ and BV ‘B’ to square off in tomorrow night’s final

(See Story on page 37)

Part of Wednesday night’s action, where Futsal fans witnessed the

on and semi--final action in the second annual Banks DIH/Petra (See StoryquarterOrganisation East Coast of Demerara Guinness ‘Greatest of De Streets’ page 26) Futsal competition.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2014

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

This week our objective is to tone things down a little. But don’t be disappointed fans, because what is coming on the platter next week will certainly make your teeth sweat!!! While you feast your eyes on these scene stealers on this page, do remember to peruse the other three for a rolicking ride into the very heart of top-notch entertainment. Next week ensure you buckle your seat bealt real tight, because the rollercoaster ride will be hillarious!!!

Photo of the Week T

Damn girl!!!

HIS WEEK, we have a photograph to rock everyone’s senses and certainly send the men’s adrenaline pumping like crazy.

We certainly could not resist snapping this hottie, who definitely possesses the body every woman dreams of and every man craves for.

And she is definitely not bashful in flaunting her erotic assets.

Are we lucky or what?

Yes ladies, this is the body every woman should really want, but it doesn’t come easily. You have to watch your diet and work out regularly. If this goddess can do it, then you certainly can.

Menfolks, swoon in delight all you desire, this hottie has certainly done justice to our cameras.

Watch out, wherever you are, for the Bombshell cameras. Dress to kill and look your best; you can be making headlines in this corner.

Telephone contact#: 616-0301/2275216

BUNJI and Faye to heat up Guyana’s Jamzone 2014

B

UNJI GARLIN and Faye Ann are the first artistes to be confirmed for the Hits and Jams Jamzone Summer Break, slated for August 23, 2014.

Bunji has been experi-

Bunji Garlin

encing huge success from his hit single Differentology (Ready For the Road), and this doyen of irresistible music recently signed a new deal with RCA Records and VP Records who will responsible for promoting

Ready For the Road to a pop audience.

The two labels have joined forces to promote the song, which has made inroads in the United States.

In 2013, Differentology received a Soul Train Award for Best International Performance. It also won HOT 97 FM’s Battle of The Beats competition, as well as MTV Iggy’s Song of the Year.

The 35-year-old Garlin admits he is surprised at the song’s success. ”I expected it to do something, but not on the level that it is now,” he said.

Garlin is currently working on several projects, including songs for his major label album debut scheduled for release late this year. It would likely be his first full-length

release since Global of 2007 fame, which was distributed by VP Records.

Born Ian Alvarez, Bunji Garlin has been a dominant figure in the soca/Carnival scene in his country for over a decade. In 2000 and 2001, he won the Ragga Soca Monarch competition; the Young King title in 2001; and coveted International Soca Monarch four times.

Jamzone Guyana, which is slated for August 16th to 24th, 2014, is promised to be nothing less than adrenaline-charged, and plans have definitely been kick-started in this direction with the first set of bookings; and what’s more, other exciting performers are yet to be announced.

Riveting contest expected in Ms World Guyana 2014 pageant at NCC tomorrow ALL ROADS LEAD to the National

Cultural Centre where, tomorrow evening from 8pm, eight dazzling, first class beauties in the persons of Rebekah London, Gericia Francis, Rafieya Husain, Cherese James, Denicia Williams, Atisha Gaskill, Ayana Whitehead, and Tiffany Megnath battle for the coveted Miss World Guyana 2014 crown and title.

A quick word with organisers yesterday informed Bombshell that, this year around, promoters have taken great pains to ensure the pageant is one of the best of its kind ever to be staged on the local shores.

Having participated in various competitions running up to pageant night, the ladies are more than ready to strut their stuff on stage and engage in a keen competition that will see both beauty and brains put to a gruelling test to determine the actual winner of this event.

The dazzling beauties have so far competed in segments like the Fitness Challenge, Talent Competition, Beauty With A Purpose Humanitarian Project, Interview, Special Skills, and, of course, the Top Model Showdown. The Grand Coronation Show, which will be held tomorrow at the National Cultural Centre, will feature the final talent, swimsuit, and evening wear categories.

Preliminary scores for the interview and special skills competition will be added to the final round.

The glam squad for the event comprises make-up artists Andrew Harris, Tenisha Garnett, and Renee Thompson; hair stylists from Rebecca Cox’s Hair and Nails salon; and lashes by Lowena’s Novalash Nail Spa. Tickets for this riveting showdown are available at the National Cultural Centre and cost $2,500, $2,000, and $1,000.

The Miss World Guyana 2014 contestants with their coach during their Sports and Fitness Challenge

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

Ansa McAl to host UEFA Champions League Finals Heineken Viewing Party on May 24 -Jamaican Tanya Stephens to entertain at Gravity Lounge

Rajesh Dubraj: a sedate volcano with controlled explosions

St ep h

en s

Y

ya

Olympic Games, no other sporting event has a bigger following and revenueearning potential than the UEFA Champions League.

For the first time in its 60-year history, two teams hailing from Madrid (Real and Athletico) will face each other in the finals, in Lisbon, Portugal tomorrow from 14:00 hours As dem seh: “Guyanese don’t tek lef!” and Heineken Beer, one of the tournament’s largest sponsors, offers its supporters across the globe a chance, in the most innovative ways, to be part of the action. And of course Guyana will not be left out!

Thanks to local distributors of the imported beer, Ansa McAl, 1500 persons will be specially invited to the finals’ viewing party at the Gravity Lounge, which would feature Jamaican Tanya Stephens.

The tickets are priceless; golden actually, because they

are all free! According to the company, for Heineken lovers to get a chance to win a ticket, they simply have to participate in the ‘Match your ticket’ promotion presently running at several outlets across the country.

According to Heineken Brand Manager Robert Hiscock, “Match Your Half Ticket is the Heineken promotion that has been running throughout this year’s UEFA Champions League Activation. When consumers match the symbols on their half ticket (scratch card), which they will receive after they purchase three or four Heineken (depending on the outlet) to the Giant ticket in the outlet, they will get a chance to win tickets to the final party”.

Vashie Sports Bar, Skyy Lounge (Bartica), Sham’s Beer Garden (Berbice), Library 3 (Linden), and Xenon Hotel (Essequibo) are the participating locations outside of the city; while the Gravity Lounge, Club Altitude, 704 Sports Bar, and

Ta n

A PART from the FIFA World Cup and the

Bombshell’s Hottest Dudes…

Palm Court are the spots in Georgetown where persons can win their tickets.

“Consumers can look out for the Heineken Ladies this weekend, as they will be barhopping and sharing out tickets around Georgetown to those supporting the brand,” Hiscock has said.

At the event on Saturday May 24, Heineken

will be giving away two tickets to a UEFA Champions’ League Group Stage Match next season, as well as other prizes as consolation.

Real Madrid will be chasing their historic 10th Champions League title, while Athletico will be playing in the finals for only the second time since losing in 1974.

ES LADIES, roll your eyes all you want; just make sure they do not fall into the backs of your heads…

I know you come to these pages each week looking for the dues that rattle on about sexual prowess, which I think certainly sends your blood pressure to broiling degrees.

But let me tell you, dear lambs, that any good woman is one who likes creativity and truly appreciates having in her life a loving man with killer good looks and razor sharp brains to match the looks. And it is such a man we present on our pages today.

Yes, Rajendra’s heart (and who knows what else) is overflowing with true love and affection for the damsel who would come under his protection, and he promises no rejection for the woman who fits the criteria to perfection.

Though he is by nature more of the secluded type, Rajesh reeks of infinite love,

Rajesh is certainly one of the few good male species left in our land

emotional and other security, and he possesses a dreamy cauldron filled with comfort, sweet romance, sensual affection, kindness, and masculine charms that are not really present amongst the competition nowadays.

This dude enjoys singing, interacting, reading, song writing and, of course, travelling.

Most regrettably, ladies, Rajesh sailed right by your very noses just recently when he was en route to the arms of a lucky someone.

Belladrum May Fair set to sizzle at Co-co-co-banna Nightclub B

ELLADRUM and several West Coast Berbice villages are all poised to be engulfed in ‘entertainment tremors’ as they eagerly anticipate the hosting of the annual Belladrum May Fair and Dance 2014, slated for the Co-co-cobanna Nightclub tomorrow.

Promoted by the very progressive Belladrum May Fair Crew, this event is said to be a highpoint on the village’s entertainment calendar, and is a ‘must go’ event for all concerned.

Well, I certainly think this event would feature all the excitement, fun and frolic associated with such a venture. But folks, the flyer that was shoved into my hands while I was performing MC duties at the Central Mahaicony May Fair last Saturday strangely did not dictate any attractions or fun activities.

And when we tried at several intervals to contact promoters on a cell number printed on the flyer, the phone annoyingly just kept ringing out.

Nevertheless, we heard through the grapevine that “everything is everything…” with the event, hence our assumption that this event will be a sizzler for those who would attend.

Music will be provided by the popular Junglist Sound System, and admission is said to be easy.

Folks, go anticipating a rollicking time; I suspect you would not be disappointed.

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

Babes…

DON’T DO THAT!!!

Jackie Hanover: the diva with Urinating in public is the dizzying curves inexcusable when washT rooms are available cative Bombshell’s Most Provo

HE Entertainment Bombshell aims to please all the time, and that is why we ensure that every sexy diva (regardless of shape and size) gets a spot on our pages, as long as she deserves it.

And the voluptuous and ohso-curvaceous Jackie Hanover is no exception. If one can recall, a few years ago, this damsel hit the Guyana Fashion Week runways with a show stopper, ultra slim body to die for. After two showings at that prestigious event, the delectable Jackie decided to switch from thin to super curvy; and, my goodness, it really worked for her!

Today she is ranked as one of the most provocative of the curvy gals in town, and has no qualms about flaunting that title.

Jackie enjoys dancing, singing, modelling and reading, and is just great at interacting with creative and innovative individuals. And fellas,

Jackie is quite a catch, as any good man would agree.

she disclosed that her ideal man would have to be honest, creative, humorous, ambitious, and raging with sensual stamina.

She was hesitant about leaving a number, since she did not want to be targeted by wanton male vultures; but she is definitely approachable.

So, if you are attending any event at which the Heatwave Band is providing musical accompaniment, walk up to her and pour out your heart(you definitely must have a heart, though). If you don’t meet her requirements, she will let you down quite nicely….

Competitors ready for 2014 ‘Champion of Champions Vehicle Sound Off’ I

T SEEMS like much talk is being generated around the prospects of the 2014 Westside ‘Champion of Champions Vehicle Sound Off ’, tabled for the Goed Fortuin Community Centre Ground, West Bank Demerara, on June 07, 2014.

Well, just yesterday, we spoke with the promoters, and they have let on that, already, over ten participants have signed on for the event. Promoted by KR Benjamin Entertainment, the event will see steamy clashes between contenders vying for top honours in the twelve- and eighteen-inch speaker categories.

The top finalists will be awarded with lucrative packages from a whopping prize package of over $250,000.This venture will see SUVs, cars, vans, bikes and minibuses facing off in a ‘boombastic sound clash’ to determine which vehicles are fitted with the hardest, loudest, and cleanest sounds.

Parents are urged to bring out the kids, since this event will also feature a Merry-Go-Round, Bouncy Castle, Trampoline and

more for the family. Hot, spicy bar-b-que will also be on sale.

Amongst the many attractions are guest appearances by the 2013 Miss Bootilicious Lingerie Divas.

Music will be supplied by Stereo Sonics and TRS Sounds, alongside Entertainer Ras. Admission is easy, man.

ON A RECENT VISIT to Eccles, East Bank Demerara, I was most aghast at the behaviour of a considerably grown man who seemed to think that urinating on the walls of his work site, and in process audaciously flaunting his privates in public, was ‘no big thing’ and was quite excusable.

And this lewd behaviour took place with the full availability of washrooms installed in the work place for that very purpose!

In the face of severe reprimand for his lawless actions by at least three of his colleagues, his reaction was a loud, raucous guffaw comparable to the roars of denizens of the jungle, whilst he menacingly waved his misshapen privates quite obscenely in public as though they constituted a threat to law and order in the Republic of Guyana, and proceeded to urinate on the walls of his employer’s business place, degrading the factory that gave him employment.

They say actions speak louder than words, so I dread to imagine this man’s behaviour at home, especially if little ones are looking up to him for guidance and example.

This type of degenerate behaviour, a hallmark of uncouth and irresponsible people, is rapidly becoming a norm amongst erstwhile respectable men; and I fear it is also beginning to pass as accepted normal behaviour in certain sections of society.

At workplaces where lavatories have been provided for their specific purposes, it is an absolute obligation for employees to utilize

Adult men cannot expect to be excused for degenerate behaviours.

them.

I wish this type of responsible attitude could be taught at all workplaces, and that all persons could come to the realization that urinating in public in a brazen show of animalistic proclivity is downright unacceptable in any progressive society.

While urinating in public may seem as normal to some, it just reflects a person’s level of indiscipline and the extent of their disrespect for other members of society with whom they share social space.

In the case of this fully adult male, who should certainly known better, I say, Shame! Shame!! Shame on you, man!!! You have attained adulthood but your mentality is still that of an infant child.

w

o h S n o i h s a F s n o i Reflect A

set for May 24 at Theatre Guild Playhouse

FTER a successful production in 2012, Reflections, dubbed under the theme “A New Dawn”, will return to The Theatre Guild on May 24.

The show this year has grown in terms of designer participation and storyline of the entire production.

Reflections is scripted to tell the story of Euphoria, which is a dialogue with one’s spirit, telling the journey through life’s challenges, trials and accomplishments as one reflects on one’s past, embraces one’s present, and celebrates the things to come in the future.

Patrons will witness the launch of a new collection during this evening of fashion excellence. Supporting designers in the lineup are regional fashion reality television show Mission Catwalk participant and runner up at the 2012 Designer Portfolio, Mwanza Glenn, and GFW 2013 Young Designer awardees Colwyn Abrams and Chenney Wong.

Other guest designers are Wynette Jones, Andrea Braithwaite, Roxanne King, Kim Gomes and jewelry designers Roger Evelyn and Deborah Matias. Joining the lineup is the iconic Sonia Noel, one of Guyana’s greatest daughters and one of the Caribbean’s leading fashion designers.

Reflection is more than a fashion show; it is more of a fashion story, and there is also a very relevant connection between designing art and performing art, they co-exist to produce ‘style’.

This is where the Theatre Guild becomes paramount for facilitating this vision. Joining the models on stage will be Jackie Hanover, Road March Queen Vanilla, Y3K, The National Dance Company, along with dances choreographed by Allison Glasgow and Colvin Andrews.

Some of the more prominent models would be past winners of the Guyana Model Search; like Allana

Neilson Nurse designs Phoenix, who will also be joined by visiting models out of Suriname.

The production team will also be joining forces with the blood bank (NBTS) to carry out a blood drive during the hours of 8.00am and 1pm at the Theatre Guild; and blood donors and potential blood donors are invited and strongly encouraged to support this venture.

Tickets for the event are out at the following locations: Sonia Noel Designs on Barr Street, Kitty; and the Theatre Guild on Parade Street, Kingston. Tickets cost $2500 and $4000 VIP

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 23, 2014

w e Delegates wanted for Miss n s e h c n lau o m u J Guyana Universe pageant s weekend

THE HUNT has commenced for the perfect young lady to replace Katherina Roshana as Miss Guyana Universe, and represent Guyana at the international pageant slated for later in the year.

Katherina has been promoting Guyana at every level, and has been gathering a following on the international stage. She has been working with autistic children, and has made significant contributions to a number of humanitarian projects.

This will definitely be a hard act to imitate, but Katherina’s reign will come to an end this year.

So, if you are a young lady and have a passion for modelling, here is your opportunity to make it on the international stage to showcase Guyana.

Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 25, and should be between five and six feet in height. Each applicant must have a copy of her birth certificate, must be in possession of a valid Guyanese passport, and must send in an application accompanied by two references.

A date for the local leg of the competition has not yet been finalized, but the winner of the pageant will not only get a chance to represent Guyana at the Miss Universe Pageant, but will also have a chance to win up to three million Gy dollars in cash, a three-week vacation in a foreign country, and a four-year tuition at the University of Guyana.

Application forms can be uplifted at Mc Neal Enterprise at Lot A 190 Eping Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown, or by contacting Coordinator Pat Coats on 609-1998 or Artistic Director Deryck Moore on 663-3213.

Interested persons can also contact the office at 226-4226.

sFingle thi

Reigning Miss Guyana Universe, the lovely Katherina Roshana

‘Kiss My ART 2K14?

Artist Call-Out! C alling all artists of all genres! RED Entertainment’s ‘Kiss My Art 2K14’ Art Festival is coming soon!

Send your portfolio to info@redentertainmentgy.com (or reply here) by June 15th!

Applicants must send in their names, contact numbers and a description (maximum of 300 words) of their work along with a maximum of three pictures.

The RED team will review all applicants and decide from the most creative.

There are only 40 slots available!

This is a chance for you to showcase your art with your own perception and style in an environment created to complement the likes of any artist.

RED Entertainment wants to show Guyana your artistry and genius in a vibrant and cultured fashion.

A Gy$6,000 fee is chargeable for participation, but it will cover a designated space to display your art (tent, table, chairs and display backdrops inclusive).

Check out the attached

snapshots from last year’s Kiss My Art event!

Join the event page on Facebook for all KMA 2K14 updates! https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / events/632983473444498/ Share this artist callout with all of your amazing artist friends!

This year’s Kiss My Art will be bigger and better than ever!!!

More event details coming soon!

ROM “Nosey People” to “Bad Mind People”, Jumo ‘Rubber Waist’ Primo will, over the weekend, launch another tune that is expected to captivate the hearts of his legion of Guyanese fans and force them to ‘show love’ again.

“No More Love” hits airwaves today, followed by the release of the video on Saturday. The song was written by the soca sensation and produced by Brain Williams out of Honest Illusion, NY; and the track was done by Ornie Winfall, a Guyanese who now resides in the United States of America.

The soca sensation explained that people of the world have lost the knack of expressing and showing love to each other, and are more interested in making money and acquiring power, rather than spreading love.

“We have become beasts, become selfish; and this will help us to love again by helping our neighbours, helping the less fortunate, helping people who are in need”.

“No Move Love” is close to his heart, as he reminisced on the way his bother lost his life for the sake of money. As usual, he writes

these lyrics based on his personal experiences.

He has been promoting the songs in Canada, Jamaica, St Maarten and other Caribbean islands.

He will soon launch another album, titled “Screwface”, which will feature Jory, Alabama, Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson, and Adrian Dutchin.

Apsara Dance Troupe: mind-boggling choreography on the entertainment platter are created by Chandini Rambalack and proSINCE they appeared on the scene in 2008, the ducedSetbydesigns Cecil Rambalack and Andrew Arts.

Apsara Dance Troupe has been leaving their audiences spellbound with choreography that has never before been witnessed on the local front. At each performance, they have unleashed a package that reeks of intense creativity and classic and enthralling serenity, coupled with a dazzling versatility that propelled to the very top of the ladder as ‘ultimate stars’ ‘APSARA ‘was conceived in 2008 by Chandini Rambalack, and basically consists of a team, and not one person.

Whilst the show is being directed and produced by Chandini Rambalack, the main choreographers are Padmini and Lucria Rambalack, Kiran Mattai , Marcia Akeung, Devon Rambalack; and, in 2012, Fernando Yow. Marcia Akeung is a specialist in Latin Dancing; Kiran Mattai is a very accomplished classical dancer and specialist; Fernando Yow is a break dancer and hip-hop specialist; and Devon Rambalack is also a dance specialist. Padmini Rambalak, moreover, is an accomplished dancer and the main choreographer.

The core group consists of between ten and fifteen persons, but with local dancers from the Apsara dancing school and actors, cast members would amount to between sixty and seventy persons for Apsara productions.

Having travelled extensively with friends and family members, this group wanted to bring a different type of show to Guyana. They felt that Guyana was ready for a change to different styles and the way shows were done. At the time of their formation, the few dance groups held on to a few similar dance styles. The core group believed it was time to break the mold of dance in Guyana, and this was achieved with a ground breaking show in March 2008 at the National Cultural Centre.

Their tagline in the first show was “Dances that will leave you mesmerized”, and the audience was truly mesmerized by the premier performance. What was remarkable about the group is that they achieved all this by themselves: the show was entirely choreographed by the girls themselves; all the costumes were designed by Chandini Rambalack, Karishma Narwani and Padmini Rambalack, with inputs from the core group.

This has made this group very self-sufficient in all aspects of a theatrical production.

The group is known for its innovation and originality.

Apsara specializes in contemporary classical dance forms, where the basics of Indian classical dances are used as a springboard to evolve a modern and unique vocabulary.

Moving from traditional Indian dance styles and fusing it with other dance styles around the world from Latin dancing, belly/Arabic dancing, Flamenco, to hip-hop and much more, they employ such ease that this alone sets this group apart from its contemporaries.

APSARA is one of the youngest dance troupes in Guyana, and it has always delivered on its promises to leave the audience wanting for more.

APSARA dance group has achieved tremendously since its formation. To mention a few would include all sold out shows at the National Cultural Centre.

Apsara staged in Berbice, had performances at Carifesta X, Launching of Rice Fest, Apsara staged “An evening of Dance” at the Pegasus, Hits and Jams Bollywood Concert, Fire Fest Bollywood Concert; Guyexpo and more, coupled with international performances in Trinidad, Grenada and USA. This is an independent and private group that faces many challenges, among which are financing and sponsorships.

The journey from inception to where the group is now has been a proverbial roller-coaster ride, many of the initial members can hardly imagine that they have travelled this far in such a short time, from sitting at a table discussing “What if?” to the reality of making it all happen.

APSARA has also published a multi-cultural magazine, a fashion line, has participated in the Miss India Worldwide (Guyana) and operates a very successful dance school to date, which has members as young as five. This covers basic, intermediate and advanced classes in kathak/Bollywood, hiphop and belly-dancing.

The group looks forward to making a continuing contribution to dance in Guyana, and to promoting the talent locally and internationally.