Guyana chronicle new york edition e paper 01 19 2018

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ISSUE No. 85

WEEK ENDING January 19, 2018

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It was a ‘Big Bluff’ …President says PPP attempts at security reform were insincere

…receives final report from British expert Page 3

British Senior Security Sector Reform Advisor, Lt Col (ret’d) Russell Combe presenting President David Granger with the Report on the Security Sector Reform Programme (SSRP) (Delano Williams’ Photo)

137 Guyanese deported from U.S. in 2017 Page x

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City Constable Page x charged for killing vendor Page 7

Page airline Local xx enters domestic commercial service Page 17

Page xx

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

SUGAR AND POLITRICKS O N January 10, President David Granger reaffirmed the commitment of the coalition government to the welfare of sugar workers and to the restructuring of the ailing industry. He announced that redundant workers would get severance pay, beginning month-end; and the job of 11,000 workers would be protected at three expanded estates around Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt. According to the President, the APNU+AFC government agreed to pay more than $4 billion ($4,000,000,000), half of which would be disbursed soon and the remainder in the second half of this year. The payment would be made to some 4,691 workers, of which number 3,773 have been served redundancy notices by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). POSITIVE OUTCOMES The government, opposition and unions have absolutely nothing to gain from a single sugar worker being laid off and their families exposed to hardships. For me, it had become an extremely emotional issue every time sugar would come up for discussion and I continue to work with my colleagues towards and be hopeful for positive outcomes, such as the payment of severance. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about the unions and their political handlers, who are determined to exploit the plight of sugar workers. They had demanded no closure of any of the estates, even though that process had started under the last government. They knew that all the earnings plus an additional forty-eight billion ($48,000,000,000) had been wasted on an industry that was bankrupt and needed overhaul. They also knew that at the rate of decline (producing sugar at an average 40 United States cents per pound and selling at only 16 cents per pound), would lead to total collapse of the entire industry and all 17,000 workers would be out of jobs. RECKLESS POLITICS But their reckless politics could only be compared with the cloud of danger, disaster and doom that they dragged over the future

oil-and-gas industry. They painted as an ominous orgy of what I see as oil-o-mania, that elicited incredulous responses at every new billion-barrel find, of wonderment, weeping and warped wisdom. Preferably, they would rather that Guyana leave the oil in the womb of our sea! The cynical choir clamoured: “Leave it right deh!” Overnight, a sleuth of conspiracy chasers concocted a theory that government wanted to hide the oil agreement and steal the signature bonus. It was a bewildering conspiracy to “:tief” by leaving fingerprints everywhere starting with five signatures on the oil agreement, which was gazetted, then sealed and filed at the Deeds Registry as a public document. The $18 million bonus was placed in a special, interest-bearing, secure account at the Bank of Guyana, not in someone’s pocket or in any overseas accounts. But I can say no more, since where the bonus was put or should be put, is now the subject of litigation.

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SINISTER SUSPICION ast year, a similar response and sinister suspicion had greeted the announcement of severance pay for Wales workers. On that occasion, GAWU filed court proceedings to block payment, after demanding and organising protests for same. The workers rebelled against their own union and demanded that the injunction be discharged to allow payment to be made. When that was done, just under 100 workers received an estimated $80 million. Sensible onlookers were baffled that a union could actually frustrate payment of severance to affected workers, but it is opposition politricks to feed on the hardships of workers, and to channel their disaffection into political anger and rage against a young, incoming government that is doing all it possibly could to cushion the impact of the crisis that it had inherited. So, no one should be surprised at the somersault of the major union at the announcement by the President of the severance package. The union/party leaders were caught off-guard by the announcement, so they changed their chant from “pay severance” to

“pay severance right NOW”. TRIM ALLOCATIONS They were convinced that GuySuCo has no money to pay, much less to pay now. They knew that the government would be under pressure to trim allocations for various ministries to find the additional $2 billion to meet immediate payment in the face of a current budget deficit. From a legal standpoint, the opposition has no legs on which it could stand. Neither the Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act (TESPA), nor the collective labour agreement stipulates a date by which such payments ought to be made, though the practice has been for payment to be made soonest after notice of redundancy is served. Since the coalition took office, the fate of the sugar industry has been on the front burner. It was recognised that the sugar industry has been historically a political battleground and an arena for ethnic mobilisation. The government had therefore anticipated the high expectations that severance should be paid, and has been considering various options. As an interim measure, our coalition government budgeted an additional sum of six billion, three hundred million ($6,300,000,000) for GuySuCo, of which five hundred million ($500,000,000) was for an advance on the severance bill. rom day one, we tried to grapple with the sad situation in which we met the sugar industry. Within four months of taking office, the coalition established a Commission of Inquiry; then tabled in the National Assembly a State Paper outlining the broad policy for restructuring of the industry. It has since set up a Special Purpose Unit to manage the reform. I believe that investors will soon

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come on board at Skeldon, Rose Hall, Enmore and Wales and that new opportunities will be opened for sugar workers and their children. SMALL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Our government is investing in this direction. Apart from the severance pay, $100 million was set aside for small loans. Workers leaving the industry could access this loan for small businesses. Already, some 500 former sugar workers have been engaged for possible retraining in fields such as carpentry, masonry, plumbing, and small business enterprises. They will prove that they are not incapable of doing other jobs, and are not “ballerinas” fit only for the Bolshoi Theatre, as the PPP mouthpiece imputed. New opportunities are being created within and outside the sugar belt. Business Minister Dominic Gaskin disclosed in a recent interview that more than 2,448 persons received technical training in the fields of graphic design, photography, orchard establishment, leather craft, climate-smart agriculture and book-keeping. Some 301 micro-enterprises received grant funding in the amount of US$421,000. In addition, 130 loans to the tune of US$2.1 million were disbursed under the Micro and Small Enterprise Development project (MSED) New jobs are also being created, since Investment agreements were entered into for 136 projects valued $187 billion. Forty of these became operational by the end of 2017. Redundant sugar workers cannot and must not lose hope. While some of them could be absorbed into ancillary work, many others could be retrained and prepared for work as independent contractors and as peasant cane and cash-crop farmers,

Joint services search Mazaruni Prison

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Some of the prohibited items found at the Mazaruni Prison

HE Guyana Police Force, Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Prison Service conducted a massive search at the Mazaruni Prison on Tuesday where a number of prohibited items were found and confiscated. The operation which lasted about six hours and commenced at 06:00hrs saw over 400 inmates being searched. Some of the items found include dozens of razor blades, scissors, cell phones, metal spoons and forks, playing cards and other contraband.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

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It was a ‘Big bluff’ …President says PPP attempts at security reform were insincere …receives final report from British expert

By Svetlana Marshall PRESIDENT David Granger, on receiving the report on the Security Sector Reform Programme (SSRP) from British Senior Security Sector Reform Advisor, Lt Col (ret’d) Russell Combe, said attempts under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Administration to reform the country’s security sector were “insincere.” In fact, he said it was “all a bluff.” Minutes after receiving the report in the presence of high ranking officials from the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Defence Force at State House on Thursday, President Granger said though brief, the ceremony was a significant one, noting that it forms part of a process that started nearly 20 years ago when the then government embarked on Security Sector Reform. “This came about because of the escalation in narcotics trafficking which brought with it a horrific spate of violence…The linkages were there – with the rise in narcotics trafficking there was a surge in violence, surge in execution killings, surge of corruption of the security forces and the failure to deal with the narco trafficking,” the President

said. He said the Administration at the time was attempting to deal with the “symptoms” and not the “disease” – narcotics trafficking. “So many of the attempts at security reform were insincere, they wanted to deal with the murders but they didn’t want to deal with the cause of the murders,” the President posited. The earliest attempts at initiating reforms started back in 1999 when United Kingdom Regional Advisor, Paul Matthias, visited Guyana to discuss security assistance from Britain. This was followed by the Symonds Report and the establishment of the National Security Strategy Organising Committee in 2000. In 2002, the Border and National Security committee, the National Consultation on Crime and the National Steering Committee on Crime were established. It was recalled that in subsequent years, legislation was passed, more crime fighting bodies were established and the initial version of the SSRP was signed, but was later scrapped by the then Government. According to President Granger, many of the initiatives did not succeed because they were not intended to succeed. In his words, “it was all a bluff.”

“We passed through nearly 20 years of woulda, coulda and shoulda without any attempt to seriously deal with the security problems of this country and ,like a disease,we cannot pretend to treat it, you can’t promise to treat it, you can’t threaten to treat it, you can’t talk about treating it without actually getting down to the root cause,” he told those present. President Granger recalled that upon entering office in May 2015, he met with the then British High Commissioner and subsequently the then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, David Cameron, during which assistance was sought in the area of security reform. Turning his attention to Colonel Combe, the President said that the British Security Expert has been on the ground and is fully aware of the scale of the problem, positing that it is a national problem. With the Security Sector Report submitted, President Granger said the country could now get on with the programme. “We can now get away from the pretense and insincerity of the last two decades and make Guyana safe,” the President said while thanking Colonel Combe for the work done so far.

137 Guyanese deported from U.S. in 2017 ONE-hundred-and-thirty-seven Guyanese were deported from the United States in 2017, according to the 2017 Enforcement and Removal Operation (ERO) Report by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The report states that ERO identifies, arrests, and removes aliens who present a danger to national security or a threat to public safety, or who otherwise undermine border control and the integrity of the U.S. immigration system. The report, which was released on ICE’s website earlier this week, highlights that this figure of 137 for 2017 represents an increase from 2016 when only 93 Guyanese were deported. The report did not provide an analysis of each country. In 2016 more than 72, 000 non-Immigrant and 7,000 Immigrant visas were issued to Guyanese by the U.S. Embassy here. The fig-

ures for 2017 has not been revealed. U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway, had said that the increase in visas being issued locally was a result of improved economic conditions in the country. Luckily, only a very small percentage of Guyanese abuse their visas by staying illegally,” the U.S. Ambassador had said at the U.S.’s 241st Independence Day celebration in Georgetown last year. Meanwhile, Haiti topped the list of the highest number of deportations for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nationals with 5,578 Haitians being deported in 2017. This is compared to the 310 that was deported in 2016. Jamaica was second for the Caribbean with 782 being deported in 2017, compared to 787 in 2016, while Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) had the same amount deported for the two years – 128. In an interview with

News Source, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown, Amanda Cauldwell, shared that the U.S. Embassy informs the Government of Guyana in advance of all deportations. She noted too that variations in the number of deportees over the years are not unusual. Further, the public affairs officer said that: “I can’t comment on specific cases, but noting that all deportees’ cases were handled appropriately under U.S. law, and all individuals were afforded due process under our judicial system. This includes things like the right to be represented by an attorney, the right to contest charges of deportation, and many other procedural protections.” Reintegration of deportees into the country has been one of the issues associated with deportation. There is a mechanism which seeks to facilitate reintegra-

tion into the country, lead by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Guyana became a member state of the IOM in 2011, after having observer status for several years. Since then,the IOM has implemented several projects in various fields, such as: promotion of the involvement of the diaspora in Guyana´s development; strengthening of security mechanisms for the enhancement of migration management in Guyana; migration and health promotion; Assisted Voluntary Return; and Reintegration (AVRR) programmes, which coordinate returns and reintegration from Canada, the United Kingdom, Belgium and the Netherlands. The IOM Mission in Guyana also serves as a Regional Coordination Office for the Caribbean, providing logistical and coordination support to country missions.

BUILDING ON PREVIOUS STUDIES The British Security Expert, in delivering brief remarks, said the report builds on the interim report he had submitted last June. Noting that the submission of the report does not signal the beginning or the ending, he said activities supported by the United Kingdom, under the programme, have already commenced. In September 2017, a number of officers had undergone training in the area of Strategic Planning, while in November there was a consultancy on maritime capabilities. “So this is not the beginning nor is it the end,” the retired Colonel assured. “The report also has taken into account earlier consultations that have taken place, particularly with the police. These are reflected inside the report. It does focus on the police but it is not exclusive,” he further explained while adding that the report also takes into account the Guyana Prison Service and the Coast Guard. “The next activity that the UK is funding is some leadership training of the Guyana Prison Service,” he added. Colonel Combe is likely to return to Guyana to continue his work at the Ministry of the Presidency from March to April 2019.

LGBT community to get free legal service VULNERABLE persons within the LGBT community will now formally benefit from paralegal services offered by local human rights organisation, Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD). The programme, known as the Community Paralegal Services Initiatives, was launched on Wednesday at SASOD’s Duncan Street office. According to the organisation’s managing- director and stand-in Human Rights Coordinator, Joel Simpson, “The intention of this initiative is to provide and address unmet needs of vulnerable groups and to strengthen the capacity of vulnerable populations to understand and act on their rights.” He voiced that the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community is often subjected to discrimination and violence. Consequently, the body has sought to support all persons by providing substantive “pro bono” (or free) legal redress. The director related that the organisation has been providing these paralegal services, albeit less structured and more informal, for a number of years. But through funding received, SASOD has been positioned to combine the resources acquired over the years and provide these services in a structured way. Furthermore, Simpson explained that the paralegal initiative seeks to address “complex rights abuses” such as inter-partner violence, societal discrimination, domestic abuse, child sexual abuse and family violence. The programme also aims to work alongside other non-governmental organisations to develop a network that refers cases to provide pro-bono assistance by way of rights’ awareness and legal redress to the vulnerable groups. There is also scope for individual police stations to receive sensitisation through the organisation’s homophobia education programme, since there have been alleged “issues” in LGBT persons reporting abuses to police officers. Despite its merits, the programme is however challenged by the number of lawyers providing the redress. As noted by SASOD Board Secretary and Attorney-at-Law, Mishka Puran only five Guyanese lawyers are currently providing free legal services. As such, Puran highlighted SASOD’s call for more lawyers to join the network.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

Bias must not overcome objectivity --President says professional media corps must have ability to discipline errant members

President David Granger sits with senior government officials and members of the media at the conclusion of Sunday’s media brunch By Alva Solomon PERSONAL bias must not overcome objectivity, President David Granger said as he contends that a professional media corps must have the ability to discipline its members when they go out of line or when they tend to breach media ethics. He expressed these comments while addressing members of the media and government officials at his annual media brunch hosted at State House on Sunday morning. The President pointed to the role of the local media watchdog, the Guyana Press Association (GPA), in providing guidance and instruction to errant members.

President Granger recounted that at last year’s event, he spoke of the media being founded on the pillars of professional education, social responsibility and its ability to discipline its errant members. He said persons who enter the profession should be cautioned against vulgarity, noting that it is the duty of editors to protect the public from same. The President, who started his professional career in the media at the Guyana Graphic before joining the military, said he feels close to the GPA, noting that the annual engagement is a sign of acknowledgement of the “important role of the media in the society”. “We need a professional press

corps,” he said. The President added that -he always felt that the media is an important profession and should be assisted by the government; to assist in the development in its professional role. He said no government can work with a docile media community, as he noted his commitment to assist the media financially as regards its development. While speaking on the social responsibility of the media, he said one must acknowledge that every person has some degree of bias but it is the duty of journalists to suppress such bias and to be objective. The President also spoke of the government’s green initiative, citing its importance

to the economy. “Unless Guyana takes certain steps, we are going to suffer,” he said, adding that the coastal zones, wildlife and the indigenous people can be impacted if the country is not prepared. Vice-President of the Guyana Press Association (GPA), Zoisa Fraser called on the President to ensure frequent interactions with the media in more formal settings. She made the call against the backdrop of the theme for World Press Freedom Day, 2018, which is “Keeping Power in Check: Media, Justice and the Rule of Law”. Fraser told the gathering that the media watchdog remains committed to initiating

A section of the gathering at the media brunch held under the Baridi Benab, State House on Sunday.

Vice-President of the Guyana Press Association (GPA) Zoisa Fraser speaks at the media brunch

training programmes for its members and that it proposes to intensify such efforts, particularly in view of funding it received for such a purpose. “The GPA proposes to widen its mandate and training capacity in the coming years to ensure that a professional media corps becomes a permanent feature in this growing democracy. In the coming years we wish to expand training, especially on oil and gas,” Fraser said. She added that as a key stakeholder, the local media need to benefit increasingly from more exposure to issues about the country’s borders. As such, the GPA she said, is seeking the support of the President in facilitating greater understanding and appreciation of Guyana’s border locations, especially the western boundary.

“We specifically ask that you use your esteemed office to have the Guyana Defence Force facilitate visits by groups of media personnel to that border area during this year,” she noted. Fraser said this move “will undoubtedly aid in creating a better understanding by us and the wider Guyanese community who may never get an opportunity to visit that area”. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo; Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge; Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan; Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock; Minister of State Joseph Harmon; Attorney General Basil Williams; and Finance Minister Winston Jordan were among several government officials who graced the event.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018

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EMPHASIS ON INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Pope Heads to Chile, Peru to Focus on Indigenous People

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ope Francis visits Chile and Peru next week, a trip that was meant to focus on the concerns of indigenous people, but is likely to be overshadowed by the Church's sex abuse scandal in Chile and political troubles in Peru. Only a few days ahead of the trip, vandals in Chile firebombed three churches in the capital, Santiago, and left a note that read: "Pope Francis, the next bomb will be in your robe." Authorities say no one was hurt in any of the attacks early Friday and only minor damage was reported. President Michelle Bachelet asked Chileans on Friday to receive Pope Francis in a "climate of respect," and said it was not known who was behind the attacks. "It's very strange, because it's not something you can identify as a specific group," Bachelet said on national radio. Francis, who is from Argentina and is the first Latin American pope, will arrive in Chile on Monday.

SEX SCANDAL Chile's Catholic churches have been struggling to improve their image after a sex scandal involving Rev. Fernando Karadima. The Vatican confirmed in 2011 that Karadima engaged in sexual abuse, and Pope Francis ignited controversy in 2015 when he named one of Karadima's proteges as Bishop of the southern diocese of Osorno. Victims of Karadima say the protege, Bishop Juan Barros, knew about the abuse but did nothing. Barros denies the claim. Opponents of the Barros appointment are planning protests in Santiago on Monday to coincide with the pope's arrival. While in Santiago, Pope Francis is planning to hold an outdoor Mass for more than 500,000 people. Members of the movement Laicos de Osorno hold images of the Rev. Fernando Karadima, and his protege Juan Barros, Bishop of Osorno, with a message that reads in Spanish: 'A bishop who covers up cannot be a priest,' during a demonstration in front of the Apostolic Nunciature, in Santiago, Chile, Jan. 12, 2018. Francis is also planning to meet with indigenous groups to highlight their struggles. He will celebrate Mass for the Mapuche in southern

Araucania province on Wednesday and meet with representatives from other indigenous groups at a private lunch. The Mapuche group is not without controversy. Some radical mem-

bers of the group have been staging violent protests including arson attacks at churches. Some of the pamphlets left Friday outside the firebombed churches in Santiago exhorted the Mapuche cause. On Thursday, Francis travels to Peru where he also hopes to champion the rights of indigenous people

and the need to protect the Amazon. However, the visit will likely be dominated by the country's political crisis. POLITICAL TURMOIL Peruvian President Pedro Pablo

Kuczynski narrowly escaped impeachment a few weeks ago over a corruption scandal with the help of allies of former President Alberto Fujimori. Soon after surviving the impeachment, Kuczynski pardoned Fujimori, who has served less than half of his 25-year sentence for corruption

and human rights abuses. Critics of the President say the pardon was part of a backroom deal to avoid impeachment. Kuczynski denies the charge and says the pardon was for medical reasons and in the spirit of forgiveness. Observers of the trip will likely watch to see if Pope Francis signals any concern over the pardon, or the corruption scandal engulfing the President. Francis often talks about the problems of corruption, saying that it hurts the poor the most. During a previous trip to Latin America, he called corruption "the plague."

RAINFOREST While in Peru, Pope Francis will also travel to the Amazonian town of Puerto Maldonado to focus on the problems facing the Amazon indigenous communities struggling against deforestation. Francis is planning to open a high-level church meeting on the Amazon in October 2019. The Synod on the Amazon will bring bishops and cardinals from around the world to the Vatican to discuss how to best help the Amazonian people. Next week's travels will be the pope's 22nd oversees trip and the sixth to his home continent. VOA (Caribbeannews.net)

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Guyana Chronicle New Edition York Edition week ending January 19, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Week-ending January 19, 2018

Ram nailed

-Nigel Hughes schools Chartered Accountant on registration of foreign company

WHILE branches of foreign companies are required by law to have registered agents and offices in a

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Editorial Editorial

GuySuCo is the business of the nation THERE are pivotal moments in a nation’s history that define its moral character, sense of well-being, and sense of mission. These do not necessarily have to be instances that threaten the actual existence of the nation; but they can be described as challenges that will arise to test its better understanding of itself; its strengths as a people, and how well working together, can find solutions to whatever that heightened moment will be. Taking the positive of togetherness as a national tool of action, can only serve to bring a nation that is polarised such as Guyana, many steps further in its long tortuous journey for unity and togetherness. We submit that the current situation with regard to the sugar industry is one such opportunity that provides that great platform for all of the nation’s principal leaders and stakeholders to demonstrate what genuine love for country is all about; not in an opportunistic or cosmetic way, but one that demonstrates care and compassion for the workers who are being made redundant – their future well-being, and those of their families. Instead, what has been displayed is a shocking show of pretence of caring, from those who have been solely responsible for the greatest industrial tragedy of our nation’s history, as they seek to gain political mileage – a continuation of their savage use for decades, of a constituent base for selfish ends. Supported by voices of a dubious type, as they all seem to jockey for the spot of best critic. Imagine a government in whose bequest a failed industry finds itself, being criticised for the sum total

Prominent Attorney Nigel Hughes

country, most overseas firms usually nominate their attorneys in a country within which they have interests as their registered agents. This is according to prominent Attorney Nigel Hughes, who was at the time responding to comments made by Chartered Accountant and Attorney Christopher Ram in a Kaietuer News article published on Sunday. The article in question carried the headline, “Major oil companies operating in Guyana did not even bother to incorporate domestic branch—but all of its subsidiaries stand to get big benefits—Ram.” Ram was referring to American oil giant ExxonMobil’s subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) and its affiliates, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and

CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited. The newspaper quoted Ram as saying that “It is also worth noting that none of these three entities have incorporated a domestic company and each has its registered office at the same address – 62, Hadfield and Cross Streets, the same address as Hughes, Fields and Stoby, Attorneys-at-Law.” Hughes via social media platform, Facebook, said perhaps it has escaped the attention of Ram, the expert quoted by the newspaper, that all branches of external companies are required by law to have registered agents and offices in country. Hughes said that the content of the article appears to disclose some degree of confusion, or perhaps miscomprehension about the difference between the registration of a branch of an external company and the incorporation of a subsidiary which the newspaper referred to in its article as a “domestic company”. He said additional difficulty appears to have been encountered in relation to the requirements of the law for incorporation of an entity which the newspaper described as “domestic branch”. Hughes explained that a branch office is not a separate legal entity from the parent company or corporation. He said it is the presence of the parent within the jurisdiction, the process of registration ensures the legal presence of the parent in Guyana. Hughes noted that it is the most direct and proximate legal presence of the external company on these shores. Incorporation of a company, he said,

of all of its ills! This has to be one of the greatest deceptions of our time, by those seeking to exploit the ethnic sensitivities, and fears of the affected workers. Let us understand this important fact. GuySuCo is an indelible print of the national socio-economic-cultural landscape of this nation that has been battered to a halt by a two-pronged duo, of political party and union. But it has to be salvaged, because the livelihoods of so many are involved. What must be reminded is that no amount of political deception will provide the sugar workers with the wherewithal for a continuation of their lives, and those of their families and the continued viability of their respective communities. Criticisms for criticism sake will not provide the answer, either. It is only a pooling together of all the requisite talents from all the sectors that will offer any solid hope for our sugar workers. What is so difficult in the coming together of those who can assist in this urgent regard, in working together with the government to give sugar workers a viable life after sugar? It would seem that the only interest that is constantly bellowed is the loss of business for those commercial enti-

is effected by the incorporation of a separate and distinct legal entity known as a limited liability company in Guyana.

Chartered Accountant and Attorney Christopher Ram

He said this applies where a subsidiary is incorporated, adding that subsidiaries are not necessarily wholly owned by their parent and the laws make no such requirement. The prominent attorney noted that the concept of “incorporation of a domestic branch” referred to in the article appears to have confused the direct presence of the parent company, by registration of the parent as an external company as against the incorporation of a subsidiary of the parent. “The law does not contemplate or consider the incorporation of a branch, domestic or otherwise,” he said, adding that there is nothing ambiguous about the reasoning. “It’s either a mammal or a reptile. It cannot be both,” Hughes noted.

ties in the sugar communities. But, what about the lives of the workers who have to provide for their families? Would it not be sensible to ensure their transition to a safer economic ground, so that all can be assured of a continuity of livelihoods? Only working together with all concerned can make this possible. Already, Secure Livelihoods Programmes are being established that will offer sugar workers a range of new skills. Such a strategy can be better fortified for the desired ends, with further inputs from our trade schools, and technical vocational institutions. We are certain that this will be forthcoming, as well as assistance from other skills trainers. At this point, we must ask where is the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) whose input in the debacle of the sugar industry is well documented. Where is their plan of action, as the former administration that managed this once proud national industry? By failing to submit such a document, they can be seen as abandoning a grave national responsibility. Remember, that GuySuCo is the business of the nation. But it has to be managed efficiently for its proper benefit.

Disclaimer: Disclaimer: views opinions expressed in articles in this newspaper TheThe views andand opinions expressed in articles in this newspaper are are those of the authors andand do not necessarily reflect the policies and and those of the authors do not necessarily reflect the policies views of the management of the NewNew YorkYork Edition of the views of the management of the Edition of Guyana the Guyana Chronicle. Chronicle.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

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Spotlight on Marriott Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018

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--Gov’t looks at increasing value of hotel before deciding on way forward GOVERNMENT on Friday said efforts are being looked at to improve the value of the Guyana Marriott Hotel before making a decision on the way forward. Government’s spokesman, Minister of State Joseph Harmon, told reporters at Friday’s post-Cabinet press conference that there are a number of steps that have to be made to increase the value of the property. “We have said certain studies are being done with respect to the Marriott, whether we sell it as shares or whether we invite certain investments,” said Harmon, who pointed to a few of the recommendations made to the administration so far. “Even before you go to a sale… that there are certain preliminary things you must do to increase the value of the asset and one of those have to do with the entertainment complex which is there and the way they deal with the entertainment complex.” Harmon said persons who analysed the assets felt that if government were to “bring it to a certain point” where the entertainment complex is part of the entire package, “we are likely to have a better price for it.” “This is the Guyanese people’s money… [so that] the Guyanese people would be better served in that way. In the interim, the expenses, some of the obligations which Marriott has, we have met some of those obligations from State resources, but the minister of finance has made it very clear that this is going to be a very time-bound obligation and that we’d have to move to a point where we’d have to meet all of these obligations out of the Consolidated Fund.” Last year, Atlantic Hotel Incorporated (AHI) said public tenders were issued for construction of the Entertainment

The Guyana Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown

Complex and Casino of the hotel. AHI, which is the special-purpose company established to manage the Marriott, through its board member Larry London, had said since government is handling the hotel’s debt, moves

can be made to complete the entertainment complex, which is posed to attract great finances. The US$58M hotel was constructed under the reign of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) despite warnings.

City Constable charged for killing vendor …gets bail of $800,000 FIFTY-YEAR-OLD Lance Corporal attached to the City Constabulary, Gregory Bascom was Thursday charged with manslaughter for the unlawfully killing of 34-year-old Marlon Fredericks last Sunday. The courtroom was filled with his co-workers and relatives that came to show support. Bascom of West Ruimveldt Housing Scheme appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was not required to plea to the indictable charge. Particulars of the charge alleged that Bascom unlawfully killed Fredericks on January 14 at Regent Road, Bourda, Georgetown. Bascom attorney, Roger Yearwood during an application for bail deemed the killing as an “unfortunate incident.” The attorney went on to say that his client was operating within the course of his duties. Yearwood explained that his client is interdicted from work. The prosecutor, Celine Evans made no objections to bail but requested that a report condition be attached. The Chief Magistrate released Bascom on $800,000 bail and adjourned the matter until February 12. He

Dead: Marlon Fredericks

was ordered to lodge his passport to the court and report every Friday until the completion of trial into the matter. On Saturday Fredericks, of Tiger Bay, Georgetown, was apprehend by law enforcement officers from the City Constabulary for a number of simple larceny cases during which he was beaten and assaulted. Fredericks was kept in custody at the entity’s Bourda Outpost and it is alleged that he attempted to flee custody and was shot as a result. His mother Claudette Fredericks had gone to visit him when she witnessed the shooting. A post-mortem revealed

that the cause of death was as a result of complication to his lower back due to gunshot wound. Eyewitnesses said his death could have been avoided, since he was in a weakened state and

could not have run away; hence apprehending him should have been an easy task for the Lance Corporal. Claudette Fredericks said her son was a drug addict who had relapsed twice fol-

lowing stints at a rehabilitation facility. She said that seeing her son being brutally beaten while surrendering to the Police has been one of the most traumatising mo-

ments of her life. She said that because of the beating, her son had not eaten since he was taken into custody, and family members felt his death could have been avoided.

EMPHASIS ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM

8

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

Gov’t goes to House for $1.7B ...to help pay sugar workers’ severance

GOVERNMENT was expected Thursday to table in the National Assembly its first financial paper for the year seeking some $1.7B in supplementary funds to meet expenditure for the payment of severance to laid-off sugar workers. The administration had budgeted some $500M for this cause, but is now seeking the additional funds in light of President David Granger’s announcement that the workers will receive the first tranche of their severance pay at the end of this month, which will amount to some $2B. The financial paper will be tabled by Finance Minister Winston Jordan who is on record as saying that government will have to cut several budgetary programmes to facilitate payment of the severance packages. Jordan said the administration will ensure that all workers get their severance, but noted that it is a case of where the government has to find resources to make the total payment of $5B. “It was a sudden and large amount and we had to find creative ways to do this… we will have to re-examine our 2018 budget which will very well result in cuts to programmes, so as to release money to pay the severances,” he said. This is

why the severance is being paid in parts, he said. President Granger last week announced that the first part of the multi-billion dollar severance package will be paid by the end of this month and the second tranche in the second half of the year. The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has been organising marches in the sugar belt, demanding the full severance package at once. But Agriculture Minister Noel Holder said he personally would have liked to have the workers paid their severance packages immediately after they were severed. In response to criticisms about the payment of the workers in two instalments, Holder said he believes the move by government is appreciated by those affected. “I think even the sugar workers will appreciate getting it in two instalments because of the amount of the money, rather than getting it upfront and perhaps spending it all and being in difficulties later on in the year.” The Agriculture Minister nevertheless remained resolute that finding $4.5B to pay severance “is a difficult thing to do”. Government said it has committed to making the industry efficient and

competitive by consolidating cultivation in East Berbice at Albion, in West Berbice at Blairmont and West Demerara at Uitvlugt. The corporation will aim at producing 147,000 tonnes annually, preserving three enlarged estates and protecting the jobs of over 11,000 workers. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo had told the Guyana Chronicle that there was absolutely no doubt in his mind that “our coalition government would ensure that sugar workers receive their severance payment.” He said GuySuCo has no money to meet its obligations and government came to its rescue once again. He said the overall cash payout is in excess of $4B, which would be paid out in two lump-sums starting this month-end. “It is estimated on average each redundant sugar worker would get as much as $1M, but the cash payout is part of a package, which would also see some workers having access to small loans for small businesses and down the road, retraining for skilled jobs; redeployment to associated jobs in drainage and irrigation, health and community service.” Mr Nagamootoo said it is his firm view that

apart from the humanitarian package, workers would be able to access plots of leased lands from which they could eke out profitable livelihoods for themselves and families through other crops and or aquaculture. “I am pleased with the dedicated effort of the Cabinet and President David Granger in particular for having extended engagements, even over the holidays with GuySuCo and the Special Purpose Unit (SPU) to work out a roadmap both in the interest of sugar workers and the reformed new sugar industry. I am pleased that some 11,000 sugar workers would be retained in the merged estates and that

Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder

we did everything we could to cushion the impact of retrenchment on the estates

that would either be privatised, divested or diversified,” Mr Nagamootoo said.

MINERVA TRAVEL CLIA/IATA OSSN/SATH APTA/PATA TPOC/IGLTA M/W/DBE CERTIFIED

ELAINE HENRY, CTA, MCC Travel Consultant 1053 E 40th Street Tel: 718-377-2071 Brooklyn, NY 11210 Fax: 718-377-1291 email: minitravel@hotmail.com www.minervatravel.net

To Advertise in this new and exciting paper The New York Edition of the GUYANA CHRONICLE — Guyana’s National Newspaper call: 917-379-6590 or (347) 385-4115

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

9

Mandarin-labelled milk powder hits market --Food & Drugs to investigate

By Ravin Singh A MANDARIN-LABELLED Fernleaf powdered milk has entered the Guyana market and is sparking concerns about where it originated, and whether it was approved for consumption by the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GAFDD). On Tuesday morning, one Telecia Dazzell posted a video and eight photos on Facebook showing a tin of Fernleaf milk powder sporting Chinese writing, which was reportedly bought from a stall at the Bourda Market. The video, which was viewed more than 72,000 times, shows a woman returning the milk to the shop, after which an argument ensued. She indicated to the shopkeeper that she could not accept the product since the tin was dented and its label

was in Mandarin. “I cannot give that to my children! Look at this Fernleaf; there is Chinese writing here! It is not the original Fernleaf; it is not right selling people that!” the furious consumer told the shopkeeper. “I am not giving my children that milk; y’all killing people out. You don’t even know what is in that milk,” she added. After a brief exchange between her and the shopkeeper, it appears as if she was compensated. Comments under the video immediately followed, with one person hastily remarking: “Guyanese vendors got some messed-up ways! Why he even arguing with the woman; it’s unsafe; nobody wants to consume anything from China-foodwise-because they’re killing people!!!!” Others called for more scrutiny of products entering

the country, which some opined might have been destined for another jurisdiction but ended up here. When contacted last evening, GA-FDD Managing-Director Marlon Cole indicated that the matter will immediately engage his attention. He explained that Massy Stores Guyana has sent an official request to the Department for products of that nature to enter the market for reconditioning. “Massy had sent an official request for reconditioning of the label, because that’s what it is,” Cole said, adding: “So I don’t know if they went ahead and imported them, or whether the milk powder in the video is from a different importer.” He further explained that Massy had made the request after powdered milk destined for China ended up in the Caribbean. He said that such requests

The Mandarin-labelled tin of Fernleaf milk which was posted on Telecia Dazzell’s Facebook profile

for reconditioning are not uncommon, and are in keeping with the law, but it must be first approved by the FDD

before the product can be imported. The Food Safety Bill of 2016 stipulates that imported

food which would constitute a contravention of the Act could be permitted into the country, solely for the purpose of relabelling or reconditioning as prescribed. It further states that if the relabelling or reconditioning is not done within the prescribed time period, the importer shall export or destroy that food. Should the importer fail to do so, the FDD then has the authority to do the necessary. But as Cole reiterated, he does not know the origin of the specific product in the video and whether it was imported by Massy Stores or another importer. “What I can say definitively,” he said, “is that Massy asked for the label to be reconditioned; and if that is the case, then it is all well and good. If it is another importer, then I cannot speak on that. So I have to look at the matter first thing tomorrow,” Cole assured this publication.

US$75,000 wind turbine to be commissioned soon By Navendra Seoraj IN keeping with the gov-

said. He noted that the turbine, which is one of the first of

Businessman, Haresh Narine “Chinee” Sugrim (Photo by Adrian Narine)

ernment’s “green” agenda, popular Berbice businessman Haresh Narine “Chinee” Sugrim will commission his US$75,000 wind turbine at Skeldon Line Path, before the end of this month. “The reason why we buy it is because the government said they want a country powered by clean and “green” energy… they said they need more power and want people to supply power to the grid,” the businessman

its kind in Guyana, was purchased two years ago as part of his plan to provide electricity for his newly opened Classic Hotel and Theatre at Line Path. His intention is to power the hotel and sell the remaining power to the government. “I have written numerous letters to the Ministry of [Public] Infrastructure and the relevant authorities to buy the electricity, but I did not receive any response,” said the businessmen.

The turbine can power areas in Skeldon, Corriverton and Crabwood Creek and is expected to be commissioned within January 18 to 24, 2018, once President David Granger accepts his invitation to attend. “A lot of people will invest in similar projects when they see how effective and efficient this is… I believe once the government buys into this, it will be less burden to them because it is natural air and less fuel,” he said. Sugrim had no challenges in setting up the turbine, but noted that it is situated next to a part of the seawall in need of repairs. Since the coalition government was elected to office in 2015, it has adopted a “green” agenda. Recently, the Ministry of the Presidency had secured US$1.5M (GY$ 300 million) to finance development of the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS). The financing was approved by the Steering Committee of the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund, following the submission of a detailed proposal and work plan.

Development of the GSDS is expected to be completed by June this year. Nationwide consultations and stakeholders’ feedback will guide the development of the seven major themes of the strategy: 1) Green inclusive, structural transformation; 2) Sustainable management of natural resources; 3) Energy – transition towards renewable energy; 4)Resilient infrastructure and spatial development; 5)Human development and well-being; 6)Governance and institutional foundations; and, 7) International cooperation, trade and investment. In his recent address to the Parliament, President David Granger had disclosed that budgetary measures would include renewable energy generation and improved energy efficiency – key initiatives to his administration’s “green” agenda. “Guyana’s future is linked to renewable energy generation and increased use of energy-efficient technologies. We will graduate our economy increasingly towards greater renewable

The massive wind turbine that has been set up at Skeldon Line Path, Berbice

energy use across all sectors of Guyana. Government buildings will be powered eventually by renewable energy sources, and will

utilise energy-efficient technologies. Incentives will be offered to the private sector to follow the government’s lead,” the president said.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

‘This is the culture of a good society’

10

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018

…President declares as new Senior Counsel receive instruments of appointment By Ariana Gordon INSTRUMENTS of Commission appointing four legal minds to the elevated status of Senior Counsel were on Wednesday handed over to Kalam Azad Juman Yassin, Fitz Le Roy Peters, Andrew Mark Fitzgerald Pollard and Josephine Whitehead. President David Granger in issuing the instruments congratulated the attorneys whom he said have served Guyana well in the legal fraternity over the years. He described the title senior counsel as “a status of pride and prestige in our legal profession and in our tradition” and likened it to symbols of nationhood. He said such a prestigious status stands alongside Guyana’s system of national honour and pointed to the national anthem, coat of arms, flag and motto which all define our Guyanese identity. “The title is a professional symbol which distinguishes attorneys for their erudition, their experience, eminence and excellence. The title is a social symbol representing the values of duty and integrity and the standard of social responsibility and respect for the law,” said the head of state. This is the second year since taking office that President Granger has appointed

President David Granger (centre) stands alongside newly appointed Senior Counsel, Kalam Azad Juman Yassin (left), Josephine Whitehead (second left), Andrew Mark Fitzgerald Pollard (second right) and Fitz Le Roy Peters (right)

senior counsel. Last year nine attorneys were elevated to senior counsel. Among them were Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams S.C., Justice Alison Roxane McLean George-Wiltshire, Rosalie Althea Robertson and Clifton Mortimer Llewelyn John. He told a gathering of senior legal professionals seated at the Baridi Benab, State House, that the

service provided by those

appointed senior counsel

President David Granger greets Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Shalimar Ali-Hack on Wednesday just before he issued Instruments of Commission to four newly-appointed Senior Counsel (Adrian Narine photos)

is worthy of emulation and can serve as an encouragement for juniors in the profession to strive for the highest standards. “Guyanese have distinguished themselves in Anglophone jurisdictions around the world, in our sister states of the Caribbean and in the Caribbean Court of Justice,” the President said, while noting that the ceremony is an “important personal obligation”. “I am a trustee of tradition which sustains society and I feel duty-bound to recognise those who have served with distinction and I do so now. It is my obligation, not an option; it is my duty to respect our national system of honours. Failure to confer these awards whether the result of caprice or malice would constitute a dereliction of duty and disdain for an honoured tradition,” the President added while committing to conferring such honours annually. “I shall therefore with regularity, respect, recognise and reward deserving attorneys and legal officers by conferring these honours every year. This is the customs of our people. This is the convention of good governance; this is the culture of a good society,” he told the gathering just before a luncheon held in honour of the newly appointed senior counsel.

The new senior counsel all possess a wealth of experience in the legal field and have contributed to the field significantly over the years. Kalam Azad Juman Yassin was called to the English Bar in November 1970 and admitted to the bar in Guyana in January 1971. He was recognised for his service as a trial lawyer in both the civil and criminal courts, and as a magistrate and chief magistrate in Guyana. Attorney-at-law Fitz Leroy Peters was admitted to the bar in November 1981 and was recognised for his service as a state counsel, principal legal advisor, deputy solicitor general and as a legal practitioner for the past 19 years. Similarly, Andrew Mark Fitzgerald Pollard who was admitted to the bar in October 1987 was recognised for his service as a legal practitioner in the areas of civil litigation, administrative law and copy right and intellectual property law for the past 30 years. For her work with the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic and her distinguished service as an attorney-at-law, Josephine Whitehead was recognised. Whitehead was admitted to the bar in Guyana in 1979 and was called to the English Bar in 1983. She has served as an attorney and solicitor for the past 38 years. In January 2017, after a 20-year hiatus, President Granger elevated nine legal luminaries to the status of senior counsel and has since pledged to ensure that these honours are conferred annually. The new Senior Counsel have been appointed effective January 1, 2018. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Roxane George-Wiltshire Acting Chief Justice, Ministers of Public Security, State, Legal Affairs and Natural Resources, Khemraj Ramjattan, Joseph Harmon, Basil Williams, S.C, and Raphael Trotman, as well as Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar AliHack were among those present at the simple but significant ceremony.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018

11

Ease The Tension — Enjoy A Laugh THE NEW SNEAKERS 3. Add sauce to vegetables and macaroni with half of the cheese. Turn into a greased pyrex dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. If possible, cook under a grill for about 3 minutes or bake in a hot oven. 4. Garnish with sliced tomatoes and eggs.

VEGETABLE and CHEESE CASSEROLE

1 1⁄2 cup diced pumpkin 1⁄2 cup chopped bora ⁄2 cup shredded cabbage 1 cup cooked macaroni 1 lb. grated cheese salt, 1 pepper 1⁄2 oz. margarine 1⁄2 oz. flour ⁄2 pint milk 2 tomatoes 2 hardboiled eggs sliced

Ingredients:

1. Cook vegetables separately by the conservative method. Put all together with macaroni in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Keep hot. 2. Make a white sauce with margarine, flour and milk, blended together and coo for about 5 minutes. Method:

B

algobin from East Coast always wanted to look cool. His friend told him that he needed a good pair of designer sneakers to go with his sweatsuit. Balgobin saved up all his pay slips and all the money he got back from returning his empty Banks bottles and finally managed to get himself a pair of brilliant white sneakers to go with his sweat-suit. Proudly, he strutted down the street calling out to all the passers-by, “Aall yah see meh new sneakers? Cool, eh?” One fine upstanding gentleman pointed out that they were indeed a fine pair of sneakers but was young Balgobin aware that he had a lace undone? Balgobin scornfully retorted that it was part of being cool to have a trailing lace and that on the bottom of the sneakers there were instructions for the wearer to only have one lace tied. When asked for proof of this instruction, Balgobin took off his sneakers and held it upside down for the disbeliever to read. ”There y’are! It clearly says .”TAIWAN.”

IT’S A FACT by JAMES SYDNEY

THE MAGNIFICENT HARPY EAGLE POWERFUL BUT ENDANGERED

O

ne of the great attractions at the Guyana Zoo is the Harpy Eagle (harpia harpyja), reputedly the strongest eagle in the world. Even in captivity the Harpy looks a striking bird. Close up, you can see the bird, weighing up to 18 pounds, its massive feet armed with talons longer than a grizzly bear’s claws. Many find it a fearsome, intimidating creature, even in the zoo, especially when it is closely observing visitors with its piercing eyes. It is also easy to imagine the harpy at home on its nest high up in the canopy of a tree in the Guyana rain forest. Equipped with a seven-foot wingspan, and an in-flight speed of up to 50 miles per hour, this the largest, strongest and most powerful raptor in the world, is a formidable hunter and has been called the “flying wolf.” Harpy eagles are found in tropical

lowland forests in Mexico and much of South America. In Guyana, they are more often seen these days in the Kanuku and Iwokrama Mountains. For nesting sites, harpy eagles prefer trees with widely spaced branches that allow clear flight paths to and from the nest. Because of this, harpies favor

The Harpy Eagle

the silk-cotton or Ceiba tree, on which they build nests 90 to 130 feet off the ground. Harpy eagles are dark grey birds, with an ash-grey head and white belly. Females are significantly larger than males and hunt heavier prey. However, males are more agile and fly faster. Because harpy eagles mate for life, these complementary abilities permanently maximize food security for them. With their talons, these superb predators can lift up to three-quarters of their own weight. They feed primarily on animals that live in the trees, like two-toed sloths, red howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, opossums, coatis, some reptiles, and birds such as macaws and parrots.

STUDY

A

2014 study found that the average American walks about 900 miles a year. Another recent study found that Americans drink an average of 22 gallons of beer a year. That means, on average, Americans get about 41 miles per gallon. Not Bad.

A blonde calls her boyfriend and says, “Please come over here and help me. I have a killer jigsaw puzzle, and I can’t figure out how to get it started.” Her boyfriend asks, “What is it supposed to be when it’s finished?” The blonde says, “According to the picture on the box, it’s a tiger.” Her boyfriend decides to go over and help with the puzzle. She lets him in and shows him where she has the puzzle spread all over the table. He studies the pieces for a moment, then looks at the box, then turns to her and says, “First of all, no matter what we do, we’re not going to be able to assemble these pieces into anything resembling a tiger.” He takes her hand and says, “Second, I want you to relax. Let’s have a nice cup of tea, and then . . . ”He sighed . . . ”Let’s put all the Frosted Flakes back in the box.”

FROSTED FLAKES

Harpy eagles fly with great skill and dexterity as they pursue their prey and strike them in the trees. Early explorers in South America, awestruck by their feats of seizing and lifting monkeys and sloths high into the forest canopy, called them harpies for the predatory monsters — half women and half bird — of Greek mythology. Harpy Eagles mate for life and produce offspring every 2-3 years. Females lay one to two eggs in a huge nest made of sticks and branches. Both parents incubate the eggs but only the first chick survives. As soon as a chick hatches it gets all the attention; the other egg perishes from lack of incubation. Both parents feed the eaglet for about six months, while the male does most of the hunting. Because harpies raise just one chick every two to three years, they can’t afford to lose a single chick. It will take 4-1/2 to 6 months for the young harpy to fledge, but the young bird stays in its parents’ territory for at least a year. The young bird becomes sexually mature in four to five years, and may return home to raise its own brood. The harpy eagle has become an endangered bird. Its numbers have declined with vanishing forests. However, in Guyana, several Amerindian communities are now noting and protecting nesting sites — a useful contribution towards the preservation of this impressive bird.

12 12

Guyana Chronicle New New York York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018 Guyana Chronicle Edition week ending January 19, 2018

Dr. Bulkan takes oath as Justice of Appeal

…aims at clearing up backlog of cases HUMAN rights lawyer and former magistrate, Dr Christopher Arif Bulkan was on Wednesday sworn in as acting Justice of Appeal, before President David Granger at State House. Dr Bulkan has been appointed temporarily for a period of six months, effective January 17 and does not believe at this stage that there would be an extension to his time on the bench. He currently serves as a full time lecturer at the University of the West Indies (UWI). He is of the view that during his six-month stint he would be able to address the existing backlog of cases within the judiciary. He told reporters after receiving his instrument of office that “My addition will help them to clear up the backlog or go some way towards that”. Dr Bulkan has served within the local public service for some time, having worked at the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and serving as a magistrate, something he believes is integral to his appointment as acting Justice of Appeal. For his part, Dr Bulkan said in order to be successful there would have to be less adjournment of cases. He joins Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Yonette Cummings-Edwards, Acting Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire; Justices: Rishi Persaud and Dawn Gregory as the other appellate judges. Present at the ceremony were also Justices Prem Persaud and Lennox Perry and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams S.C. Meanwhile, President David Granger, in congratulating Dr Bulkan on his appoint-

President said judges, other than the Chancellor and the Chief Justice, shall be appointed by the President who

Newly-appointed acting Justice of Appeal, Dr Arif Bulkan (second right) stands alongside President David Granger (centre), Justices Yonette Cummings-Edwards (second left) and Roxane George-Wiltshire, S.C. (right) and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams S.C.

ment as temporary Justice of Appeal, said Guyana is a law-based state and the enforcement of law-- the efficient and timely dispensation of justice by local courts--are the fundamental bases of the legal system.

“The efficient and independent judiciary ensures that citizens have access to justice and that this access is fair and swift. A full complement of Judges, magistrates, and legal officers promotes judicial efficiency and public confidence

Dr. Arif Bulkan takes the oath of Office before President David Granger Wednesday

in the rule of law,” said the head-of-state. He described Bulkan as an “eminent Guyanese” and made it clear that his appointment is in full conformity with the Constitution of Guyana. Citing Article 128 (1) the

shall act in accordance with the advice of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). The constitution, he said, is very clear, and makes provision also for the protecting, preserving and the impartiality

Acting Justice of Appeal Arif Bulkan shares a light moment with acting Chancellor of the Judiciary and Acting Chief Justice, Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Roxane George-Wiltshire respectively, Wednesday at the Baridi Benab, State House. (Adrian Narine photos)

of the judiciary. Article 128 (2) (d) of the Constitution says that the President shall act in accordance with the advice of the JSC and appoint a person to act in the office of the Justice of Appeal or Puisne Judge, as the case may require. “This ceremony therefore is an affirmation of the Government’s commitment to ensuring that the judicial systems remain independent,” President Granger stated. Williams S.C. told reporters after the swearing-in ceremony that while he could not point readily to any previous acting justices of appeal, the action was in keeping with the Constitution. “I am not sure, but our constitution is flexible; we have Puisne Judges sitting up in the Court of Appeal, and so I am not sure if we ever had in recent times an acting,” he said in response to questions posed by Guyana Chronicle. Last September, Dr. Bulkan was nominated by Cabinet for candidature to represent Guyana on the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC). He also co-founded the Faculty of Law-UWI Rights Advocacy Project (U-RAP) at the Cave Hill campus, which is a group of law professors who engage in both litigation and advocacy aimed at promoting human rights. Dr Bulkan has been involved in human rights advocacy for many years and has worked to establish and defend the rights of vulnerable and marginalised communities, including indigenous peoples, LGBT persons and persons living with HIV/AIDS. He has also been involved in public advocacy against the death penalty, both regionally and at events sponsored by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018

13

Vigil honors murdered Guyanese mother Stacy Singh J

ahajee Sisters, an Indo-Caribbean empowerment movement remembered one of its own, last Sunday at a candlelight vigil and “speak out” at the Bhuvaneshwar Mandir in Ozone Park.

Scores gathered to honor 26-year old Stacy Singh a mother of two young children, brutally murdered by her husband, who committed suicide in a Richmond Hill park, on January 1. Family members present mourned Singh, who endured years of domestic abuse at the hands of her husband. A

By SANDRA CLARKE

family member, who sobbed uncontrollably, called Stacy a loving mother, saying, it is the end of Stacy’s journey “but

a woman’s issue. “Women are at the blunt and bitter end of gender-based violence and domestic violence, however we need our men onboard with us. Let women know they should not see their situation as being in darkness, because there is light at the end of the tunnel.” She called on men to walk away from a situation that could lead to violence, because when a parent is murdered, the family, community and country are all affected. “Whether it’s a Stacy, a Gayatri or a Natasha is killed the family our com-

Ramona Latsis, Stacy Singh's aunt, center, speak on behalf of the family.

change, this is our moment.” “There is something about Stacy, perhaps it’s the timing or it’s the consciousness of what the Jahajee sisters has done over the years, people are paying attention and this is our moment. What do I do differently, how do I help my family

Gender-based violence, said Mohamed Q. Amin of the Equality Project, affected his sisters in the home when he was growing up. He called for mental health initiatives and education to bring about change. Jahajee Sisters continues it’s com-

The group of organizers, including Consul General, Hon. Barbara Atherly, (left) Patricia Jordan Langford, Taij Mooteelall of Jihaji Sisters Movement, Cloyette Stout-Harris, Guyanese Girls Rock. Diane Madre, Let The Women Speak, Lakshmee Singh, Let's Talk With Lakshmee. Linda Felix, and others

we have to decide what is best for her kids. She thanked the community for the outpouring of support, and called for solutions to prevent the death of other women. “This gives us a bit of peace that she did not die in vain I want to say to women, leave, don’t stay because of the kids, leave because of the kids.” “The community must stop saying it is not my business, and it is a husband and wife affair. You are helping the perpetrator to hurt our loved ones more,” she said, while calling on the community to help prevent the death of another young woman. Consul General of Guyana to New York, Hon. Barbara Atherly thanked the Jahajee Sisters for their vigilance, and the Bhuvaneshwar Mandir for creating a space to discuss domestic abuse and gender-based violence in the community. The diplomat mourned the loss of Stacy Singh, and sounded an alarm to end violence in the community, calling on both women and men to make sure that such violent acts are not repeated. “We must empower and educate our sisters,” she said, calling on men to be a part of the solution. “It is not only

munity, and our country all mourn. It goes deep, because children are left without parents, and these children in many cases, repeat the violence.” “We must make sure that violence stops now”, said Consul General Atherly. “If we know someone being abused do not stay silent, make a commitment, to help every woman being abused, “let them know they can get out of any abusive situation,” she said. Newly elected City Council District 28 member, Adrianne Adams, the first woman to represent the district, expressed grief for the family, and told the community to reach out to her office. “You have my commitment, my ear, and voice to speak out about these issues. Silence kills; stand up for yourselves. Your strength is stronger than you realize. You have resources, and organizations that would listen to you,” said Adams. “I know this type of abuse causes shame, it causes you to feel alone, my heart breaks for Stacy.” Founder of Jahajee sisters, Taij Mooteelall, said this is the moment that matters the most when “we step out of our comfort zone and step into possibilities and yes we have the power to

Council member Adrienne Adams of District 28, extreme left, among the audience at the Vigil and Speak Out.

on a road to change,” she said. Courageous women like Joyti Hardat, whose sister Gayatri was shot, by her NYPD partner, Shivana Jorawar Aminta Kilawan-Narine, of Sadhana Coalition of Progressive Hindus, who became an advocate after being bullied by her boyfriend, and Attorney Shivana Jorawar, mistreated by her boyfriend, all gave chilling testimonies.

mitment to creating a safe equitable society for women in the community, while fostering solidarity and empowerment through dialogue, arts, leadership development and grassroots organizing. Pandit Tillack Seerattan, Let the Women Speak, Guyanese Girls Rock and the United Madrassi Foundation Inc. participated.

Members of the Sadhana Coalition of Progressive Hindus

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

Sandra Adams laid to rest

President David Granger and wife Sandra Granger, Legal Affairs Minister and Attorney General Basil Williams and Social Protection Minister Amna Ally were among mourners who paid their last respects to Sandra Adams

By Vanessa Braithwaite Draped in the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) party flag was the white casket of its Central Executive member Sandra Adams, who was laid to rest on Saturday in her home town Linden. Standing at the four corners of her casket throughout the service were representatives of the Region 10 PNCR women’s arm. In her death, they stood up for her as she stood up for them and selflessly and courageously fought for their justice and development while alive. Bringing more emphasis on her altruistic service to her party, her government, her region and home town were the many tributes laced with tears and heartfelt words on how the town of Linden has indeed lost a colossal and monumental figure, who according to Regional Chairman Renis Morian would take several persons to fill the void of losing her. Adams was hailed as a catalyst who led the charge

for development, who never backed down from opposition, who served out of pure desire for betterment of the people. The mark she has left is indeed an indelible one, as hundreds braved the boiling midday sun to pay their last respects at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. In attendance were President David Granger and wife Sandra Granger, who led a huge ministerial delegation to the mining town. The delegation included Ministers Joseph Harmon, Basil Williams, Volda Lawrence, Simona Broomes, Amna Ally, Annette Ferguson, Winston Felix, Sydney Allicock and Ronald Bulkan, among others. Members of the Central Executive Committee of the PNCR also came out in their numbers to bid farewell to their late comrade, who began her service to the party at age 17. Regional officials including Regional Chairman Renis Morian and Linden outgoing Mayor Carwyn Holland were also in attendance, along with municipal and regional councillors. Several

mayors and regional officials also journeyed to Linden as well as other top government officials. They were joined by the many Lindeners, including the common man on the street who were all impacted in some way by the late Adams who was described as a people person who fought for those who had no voice. In his address, President David Granger revealed that Adams was the right woman to serve her community, party and country, and as a result of this, she was rightfully rewarded with her recent Medal of Service award. “She was a good gift for our party, our community and country… i readily recognised her sincerity, her strength and her commitment,” the President said. Granger reminisced campaigning with Adams in communities up the Demerara and Berbice Rivers and how she continued to show interest in these riverine communities after the coalition’s victory. Granger reiterated that

Hundreds of Lindeners turned out to bid farewell to Sandra Adams

of strength and resilience who dedicated her life to interacting with the people at the grassroots, to addressing their concerns and to making a significant impact on their lives.” Lawrence said Adams was always eloquent and vocal and worked selflessly for the party until she was recently elected to the Central Executive level. “She was a committed worker and not a talker,” the minister affirmed to the applause of the audience. Both Mayor of Linden and Regional Chairman of Region 10 expressed how Adams’s death threw the region into a state of sadness as she had such a huge

in which she expressed interest after getting involved in community projects at a very young age. BORN FOR POLITICS “Sandra was a people person, born for politics. Her determination shifted the political trajectory when she returned home… she was a catalyst for change,” her sister articulated. Adams wore many hats. These included the principal political secretary and member of the Central Executive Committee of the PNCR and also chairman of the Region 10 arm. She was Deputy Director of the CDC, regional council-

Members of the National Congress of Women led by Chairman Volda Lawrence bearing the casket of their comrade Sandra Adams

she was not a competitor, but a comrade as her only concern was the development of Linden. INVALUABLE “Sandra Adams had three great loves, her family, her party and the Linden community. Her national award was well deserved…. I would be the happiest party leader in the western hemisphere, if I had one Sandra Adams in every region in Guyana,” he said. Similar sentiments were echoed by Minister Volda Lawrence, who represented the party’s women’s arm. In tears, Lawrence said, “Sandra was an indefatigable woman of action… a woman

impact on its administration and development of the Community Development Councils many of which she had formed. Speaking on behalf of the CDC, National Director Eugene Gilbert said Adams always pushed for development of the various communities. Taking on the great task of eulogising Adams’s life was her sister Marilyn Sinclair, who spoke of Sandra from a baby being someone who fought for what she believed was right and gave her siblings the time of their lives when she was disadvantaged. This attitude was then reflected in her academic and career lives and was transitioned into her political life,

lor, chairman of the Local Government Committee and chairman of the Board of Guardians. She was a former Member of Parliament who served from 1997 to 2006. Adams left to mourn her children Deron Montrose and Delroy Anthony; grandchildren Dericia and Dariana Anthony; siblings, Minister Valerie Patterson-Yearwood, Frank Mackenzie, Marilyn Sinclair, Robert, Berthyle, Royston and Marcia Adams; other relatives and friends and the entire Linden community who sang lustily to the words of the song, “You left us, just when we needed you most.”

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018

The Handel Andrews Column

T TH HE E H HI IS ST TO ORY RY PA PAG GE E

A Closer Look at President David A. Granger

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is Excellency David Arthur Granger, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana since 2015, was born in Guyana on July 15, 1945. He is a politician, retired Brigadier General and an accomplished historian. EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION

He was born in Ruimveldt, Georgetown, but his early years were spent in Bartica, where he received his early education at St. John the Baptist Anglican school. The seventh of eight children of a policeman, the family lived in a flat atop the Bartica Police Station near what is now known as the Modern Hotel. David Granger moved to Georgetown at eight-years-old and attended Comenius Moravian public school. When I knew the family, his father had become an Inspector and the family lived in Oronoque Street, Queenstown (between Anira and Crown Streets). At that time, I lived a few minutes away. Some later notables from this area included cricketers Robert Christiani, Clifford McWatt, Lance Gibbs his cousin Clive Lloyd and Colin Wiltshire. In 1956, David Granger entered Queen’s College, then Guyana’s most prestigious secondary school. After graduating, he worked briefly in the graphics department of a local daily newspaper. In 1965, he enrolled at the University of Guyana, where he graduated with a B.A. (History) and an M.A. (political science). He received his professional military training at the Army Command and Staff College in Nigeria; the Jungle Warfare Instruction Centre in Brazil; the School of Infantry and the Mons Officer Cadet School, respectively, in the United Kingdom.

PROFESSIONAL CAREER Granger joined the Guyana Defiance Force (GDF) as an officer cadet in 1965, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1966. He was appointed Brigadier in 1990 and National Security Advisor to the President from 1990-1992. Granger retired from the military service in 1992.

After a distinguished career in the miliary, he entered the political arena. In 2011, he was the Opposition Coalition’s Presidential candidate and lost his first bid to become President of Guyana. From 2012-2015 he was the leader of POLITICS

the Opposition in the National Assembly and was elected President in the May 2015 General Election as “A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)–Alliance for Change (AFC) candidate.” Behind President Grainger’s success is a great woman. He is married to the former Ms. Sandra Chan-A-Sue and the couple have two girls, Han and Afuwa. Before working at the Secretariat, where she spent 18 years, Mrs. Granger lectured at the University of Guyana, among other jobs. She holds degrees in English Literature and Portuguese from FAMILY LIFE

Bartica and Radio Orealla are under construction. MISCELLANEOUS ACHIEVEMENTS

u Travelers across the Berbice Bridge (especially school children and workers who use mini-buses) saw the toll on passenger cars and minibuses decrease by some 13.6% to $1,900 per crossing. u Old age pension rose 30% to $17,000 per month.

Over the past 10 years, primary education has faced many challenges. ISSUU states that one of the most serious of these is the dropout rate, two chil- PRESIDENT DAVID A. GRANGER and FIRST LADY dren every two MRS. SANDRA GRANGER hours. When Presi2000; The Guyana People’s Militia, dent Grainger assumed of- 1976 – 1997; The Queen’s College fice, he promised to reverse Cadet Corps, 1889 – 1975; Guyana’s the trend. He is succeeding Coinage, 1808 – 2008; The Era of Enreasonably. slavement, 1638 – 1838; and The Vil“Guyana, like all other lage Movement, 1839 – 1889.[ countries, faces challenges President David Granger was coin realizing sustainability editor, with Winston McGowan and in socio-economic devel- James Rose, of Themes in African– opment. A key part of this Guyanese History, and was publisher of challenge is the preparation the Guyana Review and Emancipation of citizens empowered magazines. with the knowledge, skills, The chapter on The Guyana Navalues and attitudes to realtional Service in my book: Guyana’s ize sustainable developTurbulent Journey to Independence HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT DAVID A. GRANGER ment.” This policy is and Beyond quotes extensively from the the University of Guyana and a Masters contained in Guyana Vision 2020. In- President’s monograph of the same title. in Brazilian Literature from the Univer- frastructure HONORS AND AWARDS There was a time when one looked at sity of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. President Granger has received Apparently, the President’s decision Georgetown, one would see garbage various academic awards, including the to enter politics caught his family by everywhere. This is no longer the case. President’s Medal for the Best GraduatWater supply quality has greatly imsurprise. However, they have lent their ing Student at University of Guyana; proved. The APNU+AFC coalition govfull support to his efforts. Dennis Irvine Prize for the student who APNU-AFC has achieved much ernment has invested G$5.6B towards has made the greatest contribution to water treatment plants. within its brief period of governing. all cultural life of the University; CounTRANSPORTATION cil of the University Prize; Elsa Goveia THE ECONOMY Medal of Excellence; Guy de Weever In terms of transportation, ferry servGuyana’s economy experienced History Prize; Earl Attlee History Prize; moderate economic growth since 2015. ice was introduced from Georgetown to Mary Noel Menezes Award for History; The government predicts that the econ- the North-West District. Department of History Prize and others, HISTORIAN omy will continue to grow when oil profrom the University of Guyana. duction starts. His Excellency has written extenHe also holds three national sively on national defense and public seINFLATION IS UNDER awards: the Military Efficiency Medal curity issues, here are some of his CONTROL (1976), the Military Service Medal works: A Brief History of the Guyana u Jobs have been created in both Defence Force, 1965 – 2005; Public (1981), and the Military Service Star private and public sectors. Security: Criminal Violence and Polic- (1985) for distinguished military service. u Rice and sugar production has ing in Guyana; and Public Policy: The If his first two years in office indiincreased. cate anything, it is that David A. Crisis of Governance in Guyana. COMMUNICATIONS He has also written several mono- Grainger can make Guyana great again if the country wants to be great. It will Radio communications have im- graphs, including: The Five Thousand require hard work and determination proved and not limited to Georgetown. Day War: The Struggle for Haiti’s Infrom all segments of the community. We now have Radio Mabaruma and dependence, 1789 – 1804; The British Not party above country and race Radio Lethem. Radio Aishalton, Radio Guiana Volunteer Force, 1948 – 1966; against race. The Guyana National Service, 1974 – EDUCATION

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Local airline enters domestic commercial service DOMESTIC Airways Inc on Monday received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), clearing it to enter into the local commercial airline business. The credentials were handed over by Director General of the GCAA, Egbert Field, to Director of Domestic Airways, Orlando Charles, in the presence of his wife, Komaldevi Charles and key personnel of the airline. The airline, being transformed from private to public operations, was granted this shift under the Civil Aviation Act (No. 10 of 2000). According to the Act: “An aircraft registered in Guyana shall not fly on any flight for the purpose of a public air transport service (or aerial work) otherwise than under and in accordance with the terms of an air operator's certificate granted to the operator of the aircraft pursuant…” In receiving the certificate, Charles thanked his team from Domestic Airways Inc. and the GCAA for their unwavering commitment, noting that there were many times they worked overtime to ensure that the process was done meticulously. “We are more confident and competent at this time to start off in our operations in a very firm and strategic way; the foundation for this operation has been very strong,” Charles assured,

Director General of Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Egbert Field (first left),hands over the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Director of Domestic Airways, Orlando Charles (first right) in the presence of Charles’ wife, Komaldevi Charles (center)

adding: “The process was not an easy one for sure, it was lots of back and front clarification and confrontation because it’s an air operator licence and it has strict criteria.” It was during a similar function in 2013

that the Domestic Airways Director was awarded his Private Pilot Licence (PPL) in Trinidad at the Briko Flight Academy. Subsequently, after several years of service with Air Services Limited, he was able to purchase

a small plane of his own which enabled him to start his own private operations; naming the airline Domestic Airways Inc. At the function, Field pointed out that it was the first AOC certificate being awarded by the authority over the last few years. Having gone through the correct process, he also said that the company will now be able to operate their aircraft though chartered flights for the benefit of the country. “Domestic Airways went through the process of an Air Operator’s Certificate… [the airline] is now at liberty to offer [its] services to charter and to conduct scheduled or unscheduled operations for hire,” Field explained. He later added that it was his desire to see the airline conduct its business in a safe manner, as it seeks to adhere and upkeep the various aviation regulations. Prior to being certified as an Air Operator, the airline conducted business privately in various areas of the hinterland, using its planes to supply resources to shops and other businesses. To date, Domestic Airways has two Britten Norman Islander airplanes in service and is expected to have an additional two within the next month. At the same time, the airline has plans to apply for more airplanes to meet the growing demands of its customers.

Director of Domestic Airways, Orlando Charles and his wife, Komaldevi Charles (center) stand at the certification presentation ceremony along with key post holders for the company. From the left they are: Security Superintendent, Ivelaw McNaughten; Administrative Manager, Kerran Jugmohan; Chief Pilot, Randy Liverpool; Flight Operation Superintendent, Vickie Williams and Maintenance Coordinator, Mavendra Chand

Imported bulls to aid local cattle industry THE local cattle industry is being boosted with the importation of animal stock to improve the genetics of locally available beef and dairy cattle. In an exclusive interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Chief Executive Officer of the GLDA, Nigel Cumberbatch said, “We were also able, in 2017, to import seven breeding bulls. Four beef bulls and three dairy bulls for our large ruminant genetic improvement programme.” Additionally, Cumberbatch said while

the agency will not stop the importation of semen altogether, the imported bulls will reduce the GLDA’s dependence on imported semen for its artificial insemination programme to assist farmers. “The demand for semen cannot be met by the bulls that we have at the present time, but certainly, they will assist in reducing the amount of semen that we at the present time are importing.” According to the CEO of the country’s leading livestock agency, farmers will soon benefit from extracted semen from the bulls. “In 2018, we will be extracting

semen from the bulls that we have imported. The bulls have been trained and we are taking them through the training process of semen extraction and by mid-2018, they will be fully involved in the extraction of semen.” The agency is continuing work to ensure better performance of calves produced at its Ebini outstation. “Our breeding season begins from the 15th December to 15th March. That is the time we will put in our breeding bulls with the cows. We do this because it en-

ables the animals to calve during the dry period of the year--September, October, November--and it gives the calves a better beginning so that they don’t calve during the rainy period and slow their growth,” Cumberbatch said. GLDA is the agency which has responsibility for the monitoring of developments in the country’s livestock sector. It provides technical support and advisory services to all ten administrative regions of the country through a network of trained extension officers. (DPI)

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Emphasis on Real Estate, Taxes and Business The Edgar Henry Column

Winter Do’s and Don’ts

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he brutal winter season is upon us, bringing with it a myriad of safety concerns. We have to exercise tremendous caution, enormous care, institute various checks and balances to ensure that we adhere to basic safety procedures, which will eventually result in enormous monetary savings. Because of the severe weather conditions we have recently been experiencing, this week I would like to divert somewhat into the safety and precaution arena of our hard earned real estate investment — our home — Just as we bundle up, dress properly to combat the cold weather with woolen hats, scarves, long john’s, heavy winter coats, insulated clothing, special shoes and boots, the same scenario should be made for our homes. Here are some basic steps that we can all take to keep the cold and ice out our pipes; removing trouble, dilemma, danger, expense, jeopardy and heartaches out of our lives. INSULATION Is there a crawl space under your house? Insulate the pipes in any unheated parts of your home, especially those that pass through cold crawl areas, as those pipes would normally freeze first. Close the vents and doors that lead to it to eliminate drafts, which can on occasion freeze pipes. Any broken basement windowpanes? Have them fixed. If your windows do not close tightly have them refitted and insulated. This will certainly avoid the entrance of cold air that may cause pipes to freeze. Also, check caulking around all windows and doors, radiators, and every shut off valve also all air valves on radiators should be operable. ELECTRICAL Do not overload electrical outlets. An overloaded outlet is a fire hazard. Always unplug an electric appliance or cord by pulling on the plug itself, not the wire. Pulling on the wire could cause it to become frayed and weakened and could snap and may also cause shock. Check that extension cords are correctly rated for the amount of electricity they are to carry and are Underwrite Laboratory (UL) ap-

proved. Fireplaces are fun, warm and cozy, but caution should be exercised when logs are being burnt for heating. Always use a screen to prevent sparks from igniting items around the fireplace such as newspapers, carpets and curtains. Only use the fireplace when you are at home and wide awake. Check all electric cords for visible damage. Cracked or frayed cords can be dangerous. Make sure

that electric cords are not nailed or stapled in place, as cord damage can result in a short circuit and can cause fire and shock hazards. WATER METERS If your water meter is in an unheated space, insulate it. You can use regular fiberglass or non-toxic insulation, which could be held in place by duct tape. New York City law stipulates that homeowners should have water meters. If you have an outdoor water meter, make sure that the cover is on, (if not get one) and ensure it is working and closed tightly. Be sure that the valve on the outlet side of your water meter is in functioning condition. As a test open any faucet in your home and then close the valve on the water meter. The water should stop flowing. If not, I highly recommend that you hire a licensed plumber to replace the defective valve.

Whenever a water meter freezes, it usually cracks at the bottom portion. Water may not flow from the crack immediately, but it will when the ice thaws. It is therefore incumbent on you to check for cracks and have it repaired forthwith. Please do not try to fix it if you are not very handy as it may cost you much more in the long run. Show everyone in your home where the water meter is located, and point out the valves on either side of the meter. Also, they should all be cognizant of the operation. How to close the valves, in case of an emergency — clockwise to close; counterclockwise to open — Hang

a tag on each so that everyone will remember their individual function. Fix all dripping faucets and toilet tanks — as this may cause a tremendous increase in your water bill – HEATING SYSTEM Keep the heat on in your home if you go away. However if you are going to be away for a long time, you can have your pipes, boiler, toilets and water heater drained, and also your emergency boiler switch should be turned off. Your local plumber or your boiler service agent can easily activate this process. Don’t leave your home unattended in severe winter weather unless you have a competent and reliable person to check the home at least once daily. Consider installing a low temperature alarm, which should be connected to an alarm service recall system. With the advanced technology today, it can be

attached to an ‘app’ on your cell phone. If you have a sink near an outside wall, and the outside temperature plummets, open the sink cabinet doors to let warm air from the room circulate around the pipes. Make sure that the fire in your fireplace doesn’t override your thermostat. Also if your stove is on for a while or you are utilizing the oven for a long period of time, this may cause an override on the thermostat as well, which can also cause your heating pipes to freeze and rupture in another section of your home. Most importantly, if for some reason your pipes freeze; never try to thaw them with an open flame or a blowtorch. Use a simple portable hair dryer or an electric space heater. The best and wisest thing to do is to get in touch with your licensed professional plumber for immediate assistance. You should also install carbon monoxide detectors in your home if your heating system uses oil or gas. IN GENERAL After battling the weather outside your house, maybe to shovel the snow, automobile dig out problems, starter failure, standing at the bus stop or waiting in line, difficulty to get to work or to do supermarket or laundry chores then to discover when you arrive home the house is just as cold as outside makes no sense at all. By taking simple precautions this winter, we can surely keep our families safe. Adopting these measures during the winter months can certainly eliminate preventable accidents; potentially deadly mishaps and you can still have a fistful of dollars after the season is over. Stay warm folks. “It is always better to have information and not need it than to need it and not have it”

To have all your real estate questions answered — FREE CONSULTATION — call: Edgar Henry @ (718) 930-9526

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Pricewaterhouse ‘This is the day I begins valuation was waiting for’ …acid attack victim’s sight restored of GuySuCo assets Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018

THE Special Purpose Unit (SPU) under the National Industrial & Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), has announced that PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) commenced the process of the valuation of GuySuCo assets on Monday. PwC was selected from a field of the top four international financial services providers. PwC was ranked as the most prestigious accounting firm in the world for the last seven consecutive years, SPU said in a release. According to the release, NICIL and PwC signed the agreement on Friday last and work commenced on Monday with meetings with the SPU team at their LBI Offices. Today the PwC will hold their first meeting with the CEO of GuySuCo. The PwC team will be carrying out the valuation of all assets under the control of GuySuCo, and develop and investment prospectus as part of the consultancy. In addition to the valuation, PwC is expected to provide other advisory and financial services. Head of SPU, Colvin Heath-London, speaking after the meeting with the PwC team said, “We are encouraged that we were able to get the PwC team in so quickly. With the current developments in the sugarcane sector we are working to bring stability to the industry and affected communities as quickly as possible.” Heath-London added that, “the work of PwC, given their vast experience in this type of process, will help all decision makers to arrive at the best decisions for the assets of GuySuCo, for other business that are in the GuySuCo supply chain, and most importantly for the workers who are uncertain about their future.” PWC will be tasked with ensuring a level playing field for all interested parties and stakeholders as the process goes forward. Speaking today after meeting the SPU PwC Caribbean Partner, Wilfred B Baghaloo, said “We look forward to this opportunity of working with Government and the people of Guyana to a find a practical economic solution to the privatisation of the three sugar estates on a timely basis. This is indeed a challenging task but we believe that we are equipped with the necessary experience and skills set to ensure a successful project.” Baghaloo was asked about an article that appeared in the Guyana Times about a PwC incident in India and he replied that, “In respect of the India matter, I cannot comment too much on this as the matter is subject to an Appeal. In summary, the matter relates to a 2009 event relating to a specific company and a specific stock exchange. We continue to service our numerous clients in India and we continue to enjoy their support and confidence. As is it relates to the task at hand in Guyana, our long history of strong commitment to excellence, integrity, innovation and quality will continue.” PwC work on the GuySuCo project is expected to last eight months.

THE dream of a mother to see her sons has finally been realised almost one year after she was doused with a corrosive substance allegedly by their father. Twenty-seven-year-old Shondell Williamson can finally see with her right eye, after undergoing multiple surgeries and treatment in the United States, which was facilitated by the non-profit organization, Saving Hands Emergency Aid (SHEA). Shondell became emotional as she recalled how it felt to finally lay eyes on her children. " I video call my sons, my big one was like mommy you could see me and I say yes, the first thing that came out of his mouth was mommy what colour I got on, it was really nice that I could see my son face, I could see the laugh on their faces, my mother and sisters’ face." It was January 19, 2017, in New Amsterdam that Shondell's jealous ex-lover disguised as a female and doused her with the substance that disfigured her entire face, nose, eye, and upper body. Restoration in her one eye means the world to Shondell, even though she still has a long road ahead. "It's really exciting because for so long, this is the day I was waiting for and I know more is ahead of me." On December 15, 2017, she underwent a gruelling eight hours surgery. It was a difficult one that almost never happened. "It was very difficult, but thank you all for your prayers, God

Ms Shondell Williamson

does answer prayers because despite the surgeon was thinking about giving up, there was something behind him that was pushing him." SHEA founder, Lori Narine further explained the challenges doctors encountered while attempting to save Shondell's sight. "During the surgery doctors several times just wanted to stop and close up her eyes because they faced so many difficulties, they couldn't find the centre of her eyes they couldn't find anything really in her eyes the

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acid had burnt most of her eyes out... the doctor who is leading her medical team was so moved by her story and courage, and there was this force behind him that kept pushing him to continue." "First, I could only figure out a shadow if somebody passes by and the light I could have noticed it on and off...I could actually notice if someone is standing in front of me, it's hard for me to figure out colour right now though and small letters, but I have my tablet I will go on it, I can figure out the TV.” For the first time, she can see the extent of her injuries but still, this woman who is a source of inspiration refuses to allow it to dampen her spirits. "Being like this is not an easy task for me but I always keep a smile on my face, I don't let my trouble get me down, I think about what blessing I am going to be to others...I could actually see my hand... the bruises the scars on my skin." The man responsible for her condition, Alfred De-Jonge, had journeyed from Linden to Berbice after Shondell had finally summoned the courage to end their 10-year abusive relationship and doused her while screaming, "if I can't have you, no one will.” He then escaped in a waiting car. He is now facing an attempted murder charge and remains behind bars, awaiting trial. Before leaving for the U.S. Shondell had called on him to accept responsibility for submitting their children to this level of suffering.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

Gov’t yet to decide on recent gas find

--discovery raises hope of free electricity, cooking gas By Ariana Gordon MINISTER of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman on Monday disclosed that chances are that Guyana can benefit from free cooking gas and electricity. His disclosure comes in the wake of the discovery of some 60 million cubic feet per day worth of gas offshore, which amount, though significant, is not enough for commercial purposes. He explained that though Guyana has not yet decided what to do with the quantity of gas that has been found, Guyanese stand to benefit in some way or the other. Speaking at his party’s first press conference for the year, the Alliance for Change (AFC) leader told reporters that while he is no expert on the subject, Guyana did not find gas in quantities that can be exported. He said what was found was petroleum, or what is called liquid oil. “It is such good, crude, sweet oil that it doesn’t take much refining,” he said, adding: “But there is something in the industry called associated gas, so you find some gas, but the main find is liquid petroleum.” But the big question, he said, is what will the government do with the gas, and cited examples of Trinidad and Tobago and Qatar among other countries that have massive gas fields. He said there is a difference between associated and non-associated gas, and Guyana was only fortunate thus far to have a little gas coming with its large quantities of oil. “The gas is not enough to export and earn from, so we do two things: Reinject it so you can get the pressure up, or flare the gas.” He said that while Exxon Mobil has offered to do the latter, Guyana has no interest in that option, given its “green” agenda. Another point to ponder is that the gas discovered is just about 50 to 60M cubic feet per day, but in order to get into the gas business, a country would have to have trillions of cubic feet per day, as is the case with Trinidad. “The offer is that they can bring it onshore; you can use it for energy generation, and you can use it for cooking gas.

MINISTER of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman

Every household can get,” the AFC leader said. He said that had it been associated gas, and a large quantity at that, then it would have been a different story. YET TO DECIDE Guyana at this stage has to decide on the way forward as it relates to how the gas will be used. Trotman disclosed that late last year, he met with BOSAI Mineral group about the establishment of a smelter for bauxite here. That company has indicated that the amount of gas discovered is too small for a smelter, and

would need about half-a-billion cubic feet per day to have such in place. “We are thinking; we have not made a decision, because the amount is not large,” Trotman reiterated, while noting that the government can have the gas brought onshore, as was suggested by Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, to be used for electricity until there is a transition to hydro-power. Currently, the Guyana Power and Light Incorporation (GPL) is operating at 160 megawatts, while the gas discovered is expected to boost power generation to about 200 megawatts. As Minister Trotman observed, “200 megawatts would take care of all our power needs until we get to hydro.” Noting that Guyana would not have to pay for the gas to be transported onshore, he said: “We are just going to have to pay for the pipelines.” The AFC leader chided so-called experts who he said have “run abroad, read up a few things and they gone wild” noting that Guyana since its discovery of oil has received several requests from countries far and wide. “Venezuela says it is their oil; Trinidad is asking us to enter a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with them, requests are coming from Azerbaijan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Brazil to assist…how it is we are the only ones here are not excited and everywhere else there is tremendous excitement about this petroleum find and its prospects.” Meanwhile, when asked about the possibilities of the oil company syphoning off the discovered resources given that by virtue of the Petroleum Agreement, the Minister must give ExxonMobil seven days’ notice before visiting its operation, Trotman said there is 24-hour presence on board every vessel offshore. “This is a natural concern, there is a 24 hour presence on board every vessel by Guyana Geology and Mines (GGMC) officers and the intention is that by production we will have both Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Petroleum engineers on board. “We have anticipated that Guyana is not unique, and there are methods of having real-time assessment of production, calibrating production ---so you’d know how much is produced and shipped off,” he explained.

Burnt North West child makes remarkable recovery --after successful treatment overseas TWENTY-MONTH-OLD Ranveer Oselmo of Aruka River, North West District, who was severely burnt in November, has returned to Guyana after being successfully treated in the US. The child’s treatment was fully sponsored by the Saving Hands Emergency Aid (SHEA) Foundation. “We are happy to share that Ranveer is safely back in Guyana, where he had his first check-up at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) with Dr. Shilindra R. Rajkumar, Dr. Donette Cappell, and the Burns Care Unit which played a vital role in saving his life,” SHEA reported on its Facebook page recently.

The Foundation congratulated the doctors who did their best to ensure that the child was given a chance to live a full life, especially since 35 per cent of his body was burnt. According to the toddler’s mother, Chevon Oselmo, Ranveer was burnt when he got too close to a lit kerosene stove. As she explained, the shirt he was wearing at the time had traces of kerosene oil on it, and acted as a catalyst. By the time his guardians noticed he was on fire, there was very little they could do but try to extinguish it. According to SHEA, the extent of Ranveer’s injuries

was so life-threatening that he needed to go overseas to get the kind of treatment he needed to save his life. That’s when local doctors reached out to the Foundation to ask their help with medevacing him to the closest facility where he could be properly treated. When the Guyana Chronicle arrived at the hospital to speak with the toddler’s family back in November,an evacuation team from Texas was conducting an evaluation of the child to see how soon he could be shifted. It was later confirmed that he had been safely flown out of the country on

Baby Ranveer and his mother after his treatment was completed (SHEA photo)

an Air One Ambulance to Texas, where he was said to be receiving further medical attention. The Foundation reported that US$48,000 was spent on the evacuation exercise alone, and a lot more was spent to get him treated. “We would like to thank those who donated to the cause, and persons who continue to support us,” the organisation says. SHEA is based and registered in the U.S., but has done extensive work in Guyana. Last year, they assisted three persons in getting treatment for burns. Persons who are interested in donating to the work of the Foundation are asked to visit its website at Sheacharity.org, or find them on Facebook at sheacharity.gy.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 20188

New York Chronicle Horoscope

21

CROSSWORD CROSSWORD

ISSUE 84 CROSSWORD ANSWER

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You will get bored quickly, so make sure that you have scheduled enough activity to hold your interest. You can beautify your surroundings by renovating or redecorating. Your mind will be wandering to exotic destinations. You can write beautiful love letters next week. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Tuesday. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) It’s time to let loose. This will be a good time for research and for sitting down with some good, informative reading material. Secret affairs can only lead to devastating circumstances. Loans will be attainable and legal matters easily taken care of. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Wednesday.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) You’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish. Don’t be afraid to make a move if you aren’t happy with your emotional situation. You need to distance yourself from the situation for a little while first. You can enjoy your involvement in organizations that make charitable contributions. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Wednesday.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Your high energy will help you through this rather hectic day. You will be able to close any deals successfully. It’s time to make professional changes. Hobbies will be good for your emotional well being. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Sunday.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22) A quiet restful day just staying in bed or catching up on reading will be your best bet. Changes in your home may be alarming at first. Opposition is present and you should be prepared to counteract it as best you can. You should visit a friend or relative who hasn’t been feeling up to par. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday. VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) You can clear up important legalities and sign contracts this month. Relatives will want to get together. You will gain new friends if you get involved in environmental issues. Travel will result in new romantic attractions. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Friday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) You won’t get the reaction you want from your mate this month. Try to be understanding. Your mate may not be too sure about your intentions. Get involved in the activities of children. They will teach you far more than you expect. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Wednesday. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You should put your efforts into creative projects. Your irritability will lead to family squabbles. Sudden disruptions will cause upset and a change of routine in your home environment. Personal alterations will be in your best interest. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Thursday. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) Lack of funds may add stress to your already uncertain situation. Insincere gestures of friendliness may be misleading. You can bet that situations will get out of hand if you allow others to interfere. Draw up contracts regarding your personal situation. Your luckiest event next wee will occur on Sunday. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You will get out of shape easily if you don’t keep on top of things. Don’t let your lover put demands on you. Don’t forget to read the fine print. You need activity. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) Try not to take others for granted. Tempers could get out of hand this month. You may find that your anger stems from lending or borrowing money. You need to interact with others if you want to expand your knowledge. You will gain new friends if you get involved in environmental issues. Your luckiest even next week will occur on Friday. PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) You are likely to reveal information unintentionally. Offer good conversation and a nice soothing lunch. You can make money if you put your mind to it. Don’t be critical or overly opinionated with dislikes; it could cause disapproval and unwanted opposition. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Saturday.

ACROSS 1. Tue. follower 4. Skilled 8. Not ___ dare (2 wds.) 11. Injured 13. Puff 14. Cork sound 15. Nabisco cookie brand 16.Batting practice compartment 17. “___ of Destruction” 18. Lawn cutter 20. Respectful reply (2 wds.) 22. Searches 24. Skater Lipinski 27. Spot for milit. planes 30. Mule’s father 31. Prevent 32 Composer Debussy 34. Cry of sorrow 35. Like a pigsty 36. Apr. preceder

5. Fill in the ___ 6. Companies’ symbols 7. Sheep females 8. Ran a machine 9. 11th mo. 10. King Kong, e.g. 12. Loafer tips 37. Dentist’s deg. 19. “___, aim, fire!” 38. Former beaus 21. Gossip bit 39. Deer babies 23. Compass pt. 41. Skull contents 25. Tear 43. Certain exercise 26. Skills (hyph.) 27. Zenith 47. 3.0, e.g. (abbr.) 28. Muscleman’s move 49. Eye color 29. Babe Ruth’s sport 51. Dunham of “Girls” 52. Actor-director Brooks 31. Mends socks 33. Russia between 1917 and 1991 53. Outscore (abbr.) 54. Fellows 34. “___ & Order” 55. Pvt.’s superior 36. Guidebook 56. Woody Guthrie’s son 39. Office worker, at times 57. Drunkard 40. Threshold 42. Swedish rock group DOWN 44. Oolong and pekoe 1. Pronoun 45. Destroy 2. Currency unit in 46. ___, present, future France 47. Truck-maker’s letters 3. Used crayons 48. Brisk energy 4. “Scandal” network 50. Ike’s theater

W O W R D O O - L R F D D I S N D AGED

OBSOLESCENT

ANTEDILUVIAN

OLD-FASHIONED

CREAKY

OUTMODED

ANCIENT

ANTIQUE

OLD HAT

OUT[OF[DATE

CRUMBLY

OVER THE HILL

DECAYED

RICKETY

DATED

DECREPIT

RAMSHACKLE SENIOR

ELDERLY

SUPERANNUATED

HAGGARD

TIRED

EXHAUSTED

TIMEWORN

ISSUE 84 WORDFIND ANSWER

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018 EMPHASIS ON CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS

22

DPP Chambers disposed of 150 cases in 2017

LAST year, 150 cases were disposed of and 122 received attention in the courts while 28 cases were deemed nolle prosequi by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). According to statistics from the Chamber of the DPP, of these 122 cases, 73 were presented from the Demerara Assizes, 24 from the Berbice Assizes and 25 from the Essequibo Assizes. There were 64 cases for murder, two cases for the offence of manslaughter, 29 cases for rape of a child under 16, eight cases of attempt to commit murder, nine cases of rape, seven cases of sexual activity with a child family member, and one case each for the offences of carnal knowledge of girl under 15, setting fire to public building and abduction. Statistics revealed that there were 48 guilty pleas, 23 not-guilty verdicts by jury, six hung juries, 25 convictions, 27 formal verdicts of not guilty and four aborted trials. “From these 122 cases, there were 145 accused persons, 48 of these persons pleaded guilty, 25 of them were convicted; formal verdicts of not guilty were delivered in relation to 27 of these. There were 23 not-guilty

verdicts by jury, six hung verdicts and four aborted trials,” the office of the DPP noted. The January 2018 Criminal Assizes for Demerara commenced on January 9, 2018 and there are 229 cases listed to be heard during the session. Justice Navindra Singh, Justice James Bovell-Drakes and Madam Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall have been rostered to sit during this assizes. The February 2018 Berbice Criminal Assizes will commence in February, Tuesday 13, while the October 2017 criminal session continues before Madam Justice Jo-Ann Barlow. The Essequibo Criminal Assizes is expected to open in February, Tuesday 6, while Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry will continue the October Assizes. APPEALS Last year, the Chambers of the DPP appeared in 66 matters in the Court of Appeal. Of these 66, four appellants were allowed their appeals and had their convictions and sentences set aside. Another four appellants withdrew their applications

The Chambers of the DPP disposed of 150 cases last year (Adrian Narine photo)

for bail pending their appeals, while four other appellants were refused their applications for bail. Another five appellants were granted their applications for bail pending their appeals. Further, another ap-

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pellant had his charge for the offence of murder substituted with the lesser offence of manslaughter and a 16-year sentence was imposed. One other appellant had his prison sentence of 25 years reduced to 24 years.

In the Demerara Full Court, 11 matters were heard during 2017. Of these 11 matters, three appellants were granted application to file grounds of appeal, two matters were dismissed, one appellant was granted his application to file Notice

of Appeal, two other appellants withdrew their applications to appeal, while another two appellants had their applications to appeal against their sentences dismissed and one application for bail pending appeal was dismissed

Big cat stalks White Water

A section of the roadway at White Water

RESIDENTS of the North West District village of White Water are on edge after a large cat, suspected to be a jaguar, tried to enter a family’s home on Saturday night. Reports are that around 22:30hrs on Saturday, the cat was heard outside the home of a family and minutes later, it attempted to gain entry. An alarm was raised and residents gathered at the house as some persons contemplated hunting down the animal. The village is located close to the Venezuelan border. According to reports, the cat has so far

killed several fowls and dogs in the area and families are hesitant to send their children to school which is some distance from their homes. A resident noted that last week, several children could not attend school because of the lonely path they normally have to walk on their way to the institution. Villagers are of the opinion that the cat may have been roaming close to the village over the past two weeks, as several wood-cutters who were out in the forest last week had observed the fresh tracks known to be made by such an animal.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

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Guyana off EU blacklist

–Greenidge By Svetlana Marshall AFTER months of lobbying on the international stage, Guyana has been removed from the European Union (EU) Money-Laundering Blacklist, Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge has disclosed. In May, 2017, the European Commission had proposed that Guyana be removed from the Money-Laundering Blacklist and Ethiopia be added, but for a second time that year, the European Parliament rejected the list – a move which received stern objection from this side of the world. Guyana was grouped with countries like Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Uganda and Iran among others. Guyana, however, has since been removed from the list. In a recent interview with Guyana Chronicle, the Foreign Affairs Minister disclosed that the European Parliament late last year adopted a new list from the commission that excludes Guyana. “In November, we had received from the Ambassador in Brussels some information that the European Union has been able in relation to these lists to remove Guyana, and that is something we are very pleased about,” Minister Greenidge told this newspaper. Under the EU’s Anti-Money Laundering Directive, the Commission is responsible for producing an inventory of countries thought to be at risk of money laundering, tax evasion and terrorism financing. People and legal entities from blacklisted countries face

tougher than usual checks when doing business in the EU. In compiling these lists, the Commission depends heavily on the international body, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). In putting the issue into prospective, the Foreign Affairs Minister explained that the European Commission had recommended that Guyana be removed from the Money Laundering Blacklist because it had made significant progress in addressing the deficiencies within its Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regime. He said though, the commission had made the recommendation to have Guyana effectively removed from the list, the European Parliament objected, not to Guyana’s removal but to the entire list. Guyana, he said, approached the European Commission on the matter, and was informed that the problem did not arise at their level but at that of the Parliament. The matter was being treated as an internal problem between the Commission and the European Parliament. The country’s leaders then met with a prominent EU Parliamentarian in Brussels, Belgium and subsequently dispatched a letter on the matter. “In our discussions with them, I think it fair to say that they admitted that this was not meant to be an attack on Guyana, they recognized that it would have damaging effects in terms of how countries regarded us as a risk and banks in particular,” Minister Greenidge said.

Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge

Shortly after the European Parliament’s non-support of Guyana’s removal from the Money-Laundering Blacklist, President Granger had called for a speedy resolution of the issue, stating that the country had done everything to comply with international best practices relating to open, transparent and responsible government. Though the President the European Legislator for the explanation offered, (the same told by the Foreign Affairs Minister) he noted that while the EU is blinking, Guyana is bleeding. For the Foreign Affairs Minister, Guyana should not have been on the list “in the first place.” “We are saying to the European Union as a whole this is nonsense,” Minister

Greenidge argued noting that the European Union – a member of FATF – is one of the most important influences in the world. “We have met the requirements of FATF, we have met the requirements of CFATF, and yet you now apply additional rules. So you are party to the big rules and when people have met those rules and obligations, you sit down in your space and put in place additional obligations, this is not transparent, it is not fair and therefore we urged you to address that,” the Foreign Affairs Minister said. When CFATF XLVI Plenary and Working Group Meetings were held here last November, Guyana was praised for the progress made in addressing the loopholes

in its AML/CFT regime. “The important starting point is the fact that Guyana in a very short space of time passed a suite of legislation which resulted in them being taken off the FATF list and also being reviewed by the CFATF, and that was a commendable achievement for the Government and people of Guyana, led by your Attorney General, who is the Deputy Chair of the CFATF–the honourable Basil Williams,” CFATF Executive Director, Calvin Wilson had told this newspaper. In May 2014, CFATF had handed over Guyana to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) due to the country’s failure at the time to meet the agreed timelines in its Action Plan. However, starting from

2015, the country was able to make significant progress, resulting in it being removed from FATF’s watch list in October 2016. Currently, Guyana has an Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/ CFT) Act in place, along with other related legislation governing supervisory bodies, financial institutions, law enforcement, and foreign affairs. In 2022, the country will undergo CFATF’s 4TH Round of Mutual Evaluation to determine its effectiveness in addressing the deficiencies. The 3RD Round of Mutual Evaluation had focused on the legal and regulatory framework of the country with respect to its AML/ CFT regime.

Draft National Tourism Policy awaits Cabinet blessing THE Ministry of Business, Tourism Department has drafted a National Tourism Policy to guide and improve the local tourism sector. Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, in a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), said while the policy has not yet been approved by the cabinet; the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has been adhering to the policy’s action plan, since 2016, as it conducts its various programmes.

The minister explained that the policy is a comprehensive document which covers several areas that ‘will guide and enhance the sector’. He noted emphasis will be placed on human resources, and training will be done to improve the local service industry, to bring it on par with other developed countries. “Training is an important component of what the GTA does. Last year they would have trained hundreds of persons from various establishments

in different aspects of the tourism services”, Gaskin highlighted. He added that the policy will also focus on developing new activities in the country, investment, and marketing of industries in the tourism sector. The national tourism policy is expected to guide the leisure industry for the next two decades. During the 2018 budget debate, it was highlighted by Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan that growth in the tourism sector for 2017 had increased by a

5.7 percent when compared to 2016. A total of 170,322 was recorded for visitor arrivals between the months of January to September 2017. According to Minister Jordan, as the economy undergoes rapid developments in the coming years; additional visits stemming from the hosting of international exhibitions, conferences, and shows, will stimulate growth in the hospitality subsector and the wider tourism sector.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018

New parking fee set at $150 per hour …Oversight Committee to monitor, review project

By Svetlana Marshall A new parking fee of $150 per hour, VAT inclusive, is being proposed by the Parking Meter Renegotiation Committee – a sub-committee of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council – after extensive renegotiation with the Smart City Solutions. The significant drop in the fee from a high of $500 per hour was among agreements reached with Smart City Solutions – a foreign company – based on recommendations proposed by a Special Committee and approved by the Council. In the final report submitted by the Parking Meter Renegotiation Committee chaired by Councillor Akeem Peter, it was explained that

following the abrupt end of the Parking Meter Project which was initiated in May, 2016 by way of a contractual agreement, a special committee convened by the council made four recommendations, but only one group of recommendations was approved. That committee was led by Councillor Malcolm Ferreira. While that special committee recommended that the metered parking system with Smart City Solutions be continued, it did not make any recommendation for the continuance of the contract in its original form. The Parking Meter Renegotiation Committee was then formed and tasked with renegotiation the contract based on the single group of recommendations. According to the final report, seen by this newspa-

per, the renegotiation committee held 15 meetings of which three were exclusive negotiations. Based on those negotiations, the committee and Smart City Solutions agreed to modify 13 aspects of the contract, including the reduction of the parking fee and the introduction of an oversight body. “The new fee structure is 150.00 dollars per hour VAT inclusive and 800.00 for eight (8) hours VAT inclusive,” the committee stated in its report under the sub-heading “Renegotiations.” Importantly too, it was agreed that drivers pay for time instead of space, thus allowing them to move from location to location until the time paid for is exhausted. This will allow for transferability of time from meter to meter.

It was also agreed that at the recommencement of the project, there will be no immediate booting for the first three months, however, once that period has elapsed, failure to pay parking fees for up to three violations will result in booting, towing, and if necessary the sale of vehicle after 60 days of storage. “It was agreed that the conditions for enforcement as stipulated in the contract is dependent on what is lawfully prescribed in the Parking Meter By-Laws. As such, that clause is taken in conjunction with the Parking Meter By-Laws which will determine what and how enforcement activities are applied,” the committee stated. Stating too that there exists no monopoly on garage parking, the committee noted Smart City Solutions’ willingness to give up garage parking. “The parties agreed that the project shall be reviewed every six months for the first three years. This includes both Operational and Financial Views,” another section of the final report stated. Additionally, the parties have agreed to have vehicles registered under the Central and Local Governments included in the exempt vehicles. In the case of residents

passes will be issued. “It was agreed that a Residential PASS will be issued for parking from 5pm to 7pm, Monday to Friday and Saturday will be free all day. However, a nominal fee will apply and the Residential PASS is restricted to the vicinity in which the resident resides,” the committee explained. Smart City Solutions has also agreed to have their staff undergo rigorous training in an effort to effect the necessary changes in their attitude. On the issue of “unilateral termination of contract, Smart City Solutions agreed that the lump sum payment required by the City for unilateral termination will no longer be calculated by the number of years (of fraction thereof). Additionally, the conditions for unilateral termination will be adjusted to become less burdensome on the Mayor and City Council. “During the process of renegotiations, Share of Profit and the Contractual Period were discussed, however, after lengthy discussions, both parties agreed to have those two clauses remain unchanged. Consequently, they are referred to that which was agreed upon in Amendment 2 of the Contract, being 20/80 Mayor and City Council/ Concessionaire respectively

and the contract will be for twenty (20) years with a right of renewal,” the committee reported. The parties also agreed to add a new feature to the contract – provisions for an Oversight Committee. That committee will monitor, review and manage the operation of the project. It will comprise of seven members inclusive of representatives from both parties. This final report of the renegotiation committee is to be submitted and ratified by the full council. Back in December last year, the High Court quashed the Parking Meter by-laws which will bar the council from proceeding with the project. The council has since appealed the decision. The court action was filed by the New Building Society in February, 2017. The bank had challenged the legality of the parking meter by-laws that had been approved by Local Government Minister, Ronald Bulkan. High Court Judge, Naresh Harnanan scrapped the legal validity of Bulkan’s decision to approve the parking meter by-laws. The judge found that the procedure to bring the by-laws into force was breached.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018 2

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 17, 2018

First Lady Lady tours newly expanded First expanded Doobay Medical Centre

FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, was on Tuesday given a guided tour of the new and improved Doobay Medical Centre, located at Annandale, East Coast Demerara, which is known for its leadership in dialysis treatment. The facility is now equipped with a Computed Tomography (CT) scanner, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine, Intensive Care Unit and clinical laboratory. The Centre has also added more space which will facilitate a research Centre, a pharmacy and an office for the resident doctors. Once these additions are completed, the Centre will be able to offer a

wider range of services and serve a larger section of the Guyanese population. During a brief meeting with the Centre’s executive body, the First Lady advised the team on strategic efforts that they could implement to secure strong partnerships in both the public and private sectors in order to bring the Centre’s vision of providing total care for all, to full fruition. She commended the team for their forward thinking in healthcare and expressed how impressed she was with the ideas that they had presented to her, as well as the improvements made to the hospital. “I have passed here and thought [that] it was only dialysis, First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, some members of the Board of Directors and relatives of patients undergoing care at the Doobay Medical Centre

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger greets dialysis patient, Master Jamali Corbin at the Doobay Medical Centre

but you’ve showed me that you have much more. You’re not static here but you’re looking at outreaches. There is a vision and a plan … I think it’s a marvelous thing that you’re doing here” she said. Meanwhile, cardiovascular surgeon and founder of the Doobay Medical Centre, Dr. Budhendra Doobay, said that his motivation for starting the Centre was rooted in his desire to provide more affordable health care for persons who needed dialysis. He indicated that approximately 50 percent of the dialysis patients received subsidy and did not have to endure the burden of the full cost for their treatment. Additionally, Dr. Doobay, in sharing his vision for the future of the hospital, said that they were aiming to

transform the Centre into a mini hospital. “We want to do a specialised hospital; do cardiac, neurovascular surgeries and neurosurgery and also whatever money comes, we put it in a little pool and help the dialysis Centre as well,” he said. The expansion of the Centre was funded primarily by the Canadian charity organisation, International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF), the Beharry Group of Companies, the Doobay Medical Centre board of directors and Mr. Sattaur Gaffoor. In an invited comment, Chairperson for the IDRF Global Monitoring, Mr. Winston Kassim explained that his organisation wanted to assist the less privileged sections of the population by subsidising the cost of their

treatment. “In the future, we plan on helping the Doobay Centre here to do prevention work. So rather than [just] treating the patients with the dialysis, we do research in collaboration with McMaster University so that it could prevent the dialysis from happening or the malfunction of the kidney,” he said. Mr. Kassim also said that he had extended the invitation to First Lady because of how impressed he was with her humanitarian work across Guyana. The Doobay Medical Centre was founded in September of 2011, to provide dialysis services. Since the opening, the Centre has expanded its operations and services to cater to more than 100 patients. (Ministry of the Presidency)

$148M contract cleared for major D&I project at Ithaca H. NAUTH and Sons General Engineering Contractors has won the $148M contract for constructing drains, canals, access dams and hydraulic structures for the Rural Agricultural Infrastructural Development project (RAID) aback Ithaca, West Bank Berbice. This was disclosed by the Ministry of the Presidency recently. Residents of the community will benefit from new drainage and irrigation infrastructure, plus land-preparation equipment and technical advice which will help to boost agricultural production on 900 acres of hitherto unproductive land and

improve livelihoods in the village. The opening up of unused fertile lands aback Ithaca is being made possible under a loan granted to the Government of Guyana by the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF). Buxton, Triumph and Mocha villages are the three small-scale farming communities in Region Four which will benefit from similar D&I systems and agricultural support under the scheme. A reliable source at the Ministry of Agriculture has disclosed that work on the infrastructure for 900 acres of farmlands is expected to begin by month-end

and the project should be completed in eight months. The works to be done include: land-clearing; construction of secondary drainage and irrigation systems; rehabilitation of access dams and the establishment of pasture lands and farm plots. The beneficiaries at Ithaca are residents organised under the umbrella of the co-operative movement. Residents will utilise the drainage and irrigation systems and access dams for large-scale commercial agricultural development, which will enhance the economic empowerment of the village and its environs.

The CDF was established under Article 158 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas “for the purpose of providing financial or technical assistance to disadvantaged countries, regions and sectors.” It is the centrepiece of the regime to address the disparities among the member states of CARICOM which may result from the implementation of the Caribbean Single Market Economy (CSME). The agreement pertaining to the operation of the fund was signed in July 2008 and the CDF began operating on August 24, 2009.

26 GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 18, 2018

Rubis opens RUBIS opens tenth tenth gas station gas station

By Shirley Thomas RUBISGuyana Guyana has RUBIS Inc.Inc. yesterofficially declared open its day officially declared open 10th location its 10th locationatatLot Lot11,RuimRuimveldt, GreaterGeorgetown. Georgetown. veldt, Greater Boasting a spanking new state-of-the-art facility, the new gas station is a partnership between RUBIS and Ross’ Service Station, which previously served as a dealer for ‘Shell’ and later ‘Guyoil’ at that location. The elegant service station is conveniently located and geared to deliver a service that is ‘second to none.’

has transformed the landscape in a positive way and further enhances other RUBIS brands. Johnson sees the immediate benefits of opening the service station as an opportunity to serve a number of customers who traffic this area; providing employment opportunities for young people and ultimately giving the brand additional prominence. Johnson added that RUBIS is grateful to be associated with the owners of this facility and optimistic about expanding. She stated that they are

Lucky customer Nigel Harry gets his tank filled for free.

By no means a stranger to the petrol filling station business, Ross has been operating at that venue for 56 years – initially in the petrol business and interspersed with a restaurant and bar operations. The doors of the service station business were thrown open to the public on November 16, 1959, and ceased operations in 2015. In her opening remarks, Retail Accounts Executive of RUBIS, Rhonda Johnson, declared that it was a special day for Ross’ Service Station and the office as they continue the tradition of operating a fuel outpost. “This piece of real estate has housed a service station for over four decades,” she said.

also grateful to make a difference in the lives of Guyanese, optimistic about expanding a detailed network and proud to provide quality products and excited to be a part of the Guyanese family. And in keeping with its core values, it provides quality customer service, she assured. And business partner, Mrs. Caretta Ross-Hopkinson, daughter of founder/ proprietor, Mr. Coglan Ross and wife Mrs. Alice Ross, gave a brief background to the project. Caretta is also the wife of business partner, Sean Hopkinson. Ross’ Service Station was initially a Shell Service Station and later became the

Johnson said that what was being witnessed was a symbiotic relationship between RUBIS and Ross’ Service Station that was incubated in early 2017, and has burgeoned into a wonderful business arrangement. She referred to the relationship as humble, respectful, guarding the parties’ individual interests, while at the same time recognising the benefits from citizens. Among the firm values shared by both parties, she said, was their penchant for ‘quality’. She contended that the presence of the facility

first dealer-owned GUYOIL Service Station. It first threw open its doors as a gas station on November 16, 1959, and remained in operation for full 56 years, before shutting up shop in August 2015. In the 70s and 80s, it housed what had come to be known as the very popular Village Gate Restaurant and Bar, well known for its tasty fried chicken. Mrs. Ross-Hopkinson, on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude the family members and other partners for their contributions to making this dream a reality and to the

community for receiving them back with wide open arms. She added that the family now looks forward to a better service, assuring that, “This legacy will continue.” Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of Rubis International Guyana Inc. Mr. Mauricio Nicholls said that RUBIS is very committed to the partnership with Ross, noting that it is an excellent example of the partnership they (RUBIS) believe in. “We will have to pay attention to every small detail of the operation, as we promote our brand and ensure that Guyanese consumers have a preference for our brand,” he said. Mr. Nicholls saw as key to the success of the venture, an innovative project with handsome investment in technology and a new partnership with the station. He assured that RUBIS is very committed to Guyana and pledges to continue the relationship with this country. Meanwhile, adding that RUBIS is optimistic about Guyana’s future in oil in the next few years, he said that RUBIS is ready to do its part to develop its business and grow in this beautiful country. Meanwhile, Chief Executive officer of the Guyana Energy Agency, Dr. Mahender Sharma, on behalf of the Agency, congratulated the management and staff of the Ross/ RUBIS Service Station and RUBIS for the investments and modernisation efforts toward improving the services of their branded Petrol. Dr. Sharma said that the investment and official commissioning of the service station with its modern outlook is indeed a demonstration of the company’s commitment and confidence in Guyana’s private

The new service station.

sector and the country as a whole. He said that branding and modernisation are useful tools in promoting a business since a company’s image will have a lasting impact on the attitude of both customers and employees. The programme was richly spiced with renditions of two inspirational songs by pupils of Green Acres Primary School and a surprise feature of the free filling of the first customer’s vehicle. The lucky person was Mr. Nigel Harry of Damon Avenue, Linden.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending January 19, 2018 13

‘Use it or lose it” Min. Bulkan urges regional administrations on capital expenditure

Officials and regional representatives at the Action Roundtable for Regional Development 2018

MINISTER of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, on Wednesday called on those at the helm of regional administrations to use or face the likelihood of losing their budgetary allocations in the light of government’s plan to make programme cuts to facilitate severance payments to sugar workers. He was at the time addressing an Action Roundtable for Regional Development 2018 programme held at the National Racquet Centre. The minister said an additional $2B, which was not catered for in the 2018 National Budget, will have to be acquired before the end of January this year. This is to ensure that sugar workers are paid; therefore budgetary cuts to programmes of the respective ministries and agencies are impending. “If you don’t use it, there is a great likelihood you could lose it, so in addition to all the other factors …the allocations that have been made to the respective regions need to be implemented…this is one additional factor,” the minister told the regional heads and representatives. The importance of effective and efficient implementation and execution of their respective work programmes was emphasised by the Communities Minister. It was reminded that the regions have benefited this year from an additional $2.1B, which is an approximate 5.6 percent increase from 2017 for capital programmes. This, Minister Bulkan pointed out, is despite the fiscal constraints imposed by the traditional sectors of the economy. “This is part of our government’s efforts to ensure that the decentralised organs deliver services to our people as part of the strategic agenda to inspire confidence in the system and to ensure people’s participation in the Local Government Elections,” he noted. A stricter approach is being taken by the administration to also ensure the timely and effective execution of the capital programmes

regionally. In this vein, Minister Bulkan disclosed that there will be monthly plenaries of the Cabinet where each ministry will have to present progress reports on the rate of implementation of their capital programmes. This is in an effort to strengthen regional procurement systems. Those gathered at the Action Roundtable were reminded that the timely execution of their work programmes will be to the benefit of the regions peoples. The minister iterated that regional administrators should revisit their approach to planning and implementation, urging that every effort be made to ensure the proper functioning of respective procurement and planning departments. Administrators and representatives were then urged to strictly adhere to their submitted procurement plans. Equally, the Communities Minister stressed the need for there to be value for money. He noted that “Our spending of public money ought to be guided by the principles of accountability, transparency, and ethics in order to ensure we get value for money.” The Regional Executive Officers (REOs) were also reminded that they are the ones who have the responsibility of guiding the spending of funds in the public purse; therefore, the minister said the onus is on them to ensure that there is “no semblance of impropriety” or corrupt practices perpetrated by anyone in their administrations. Section 11 (4) of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, he posited, defines proper use as the efficient, effective, and ethical action in the expenditure of public money. Government, Minister Bulkan said, does not wish to babysit the administrative heads, but expects that each region will leverage its resources to its own benefit. He reiterated his ministry’s commitment to providing the necessary support to regional administrations. (DPI)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending January 19, 2018

27

West Indies spark spirit-of-debate with controversial dismissal W

est Indies have once again ignited the spirit-of-cricket debate at the Under-19 World Cup, when they appealed against South Africa opener Jiveshan Pillay for obstructing the field in their Group A fixture in Mount Maunganui.

Emmanuel Stewart, the West Indies captain and wicketkeeper, made the appeal after Pillay picked up the ball close to off stump, even though it was stationary after rolling off an inside edge. The third umpire Ranmore Martinesz was called in and the decision went in West Indies' favour after a long wait and a number of replays. The incident occurred in the 17th over of South Africa's innings, when they were 77 for 2. Once the decision was referred to the TV umpire, it was going to be difficult to give the batsman not out, unless Stewart and West Indies withdrew the appeal. Law 37.4, which deals with 'returning the ball to a fielder', states: "Either batsman is out obstructing the field if, at any time while the ball is in play and, without the consent of a fielder, he/she uses the bat or any part of his/her person to return the ball to any fielder." West Indies' actions in this game are likely to be debated widely, as they

were at the 2016 World Cup when their bowler Keemo Paul effected a mankad to dismiss Zimbabwe's last wicket —

Richard Ngarava — to win a must-win group game. They eventually went on to win the tournament. West Indies were in a must-win position against

South Africa in this game too, having lost their tournament opener against

WEST INDIES UNDER 19 CAPTAIN EMMANUEL STEWART

New Zealand. In 2016, former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop had defended the U19 side against criticism for the mankad, but he was less supportive of this obstructing-the-field dismissal. "This is an unfortunate issue," Bishop, one of the commentators at the game, told Fox Sports. "The batsman isn't trying to gain an advantage. He is not trying to be unfair. The umpires have done what they need to do. The ball has stopped. It's not threatening the stumps. I don't really necessarily feel as if that's a good law. It could take a relook. "The batsman is not trying to gain an unfair advantage. All he is trying to do is help out the fielding team. I would have to have a deeper look at myself if I was the fielding captain. Can I use some discretion here for the sake of the game and whatever the spirit of the game means? I wouldn't have gone that way. He's obviously a bright kid and he understands the letter of the law. On this occasion it's slightly different for me compared to the last World Cup." ESPNCricInfo (Caribbeannews.net)

Ben Stokes charged by CPS with affray

B

en Stokes, the England allrounder, has been charged by the Crown Prosecution Service with affray, along with two other men, and will face trial at Bristol Magistrates' Court at a later date.

The development comes more than three months after Stokes was arrested in Bristol on September 25, on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm following an altercation outside a Bristol nightclub. He has now been charged by the CPS with the public order offence of affray, which can carry with it a jail term of up to two years. "The CPS was passed a file of evidence by Avon and Somerset Police on 29 November 2017 in relation to an incident of disorder in Bristol city centre," a CPS spokesman said. "Further material was subsequently received in late December. Following a review of all the available evidence, the CPS has today (Mon, 15 Jan) authorised the police to charge three men with affray in connection to the incident." Avon and Somerset Police added in a statement: "Three men have today been

charged in connection with an incident of competitive action by signing for Canterdisorder on Queens Road, Bristol on bury in the domestic one-day and T20 September 25 last year. competitions in New Zealand in December, for which he was granted a no-ob"Having carefully considered the evijection certificate by the ECB. dence, the CPS has today authorised Ben Stokes, 26, of Durham, Ryan Ali, 28, and However, having been named in EngRyan Hale, 26, both of Bristol, to each be land's current ODI and T20 squads for charged with one count of affray. They the tours of Australia and New Zealand, will appear at Bristol magistrates' court Stokes is set to be officially withdrawn at a date to be from availability, confirmed." and is likely also to miss the Test The incident tour of New occurred outside Zealand in March the Mbargo nightand April, for club in the Clifton which he was area of Bristol in named last week. the early hours of The ECB board is the morning after also set to meet to England's one-day discuss developinternational ments. against West InA statement dies on September BEN STOKES said: "ECB is 24, and resulted in one of those involved suffering a broken aware that Ben Stokes has been charged with affray in relation to an incident in eye socket. Bristol in September. The board will now Stokes subsequently played no part in convene within 48 hours to decide on England's Ashes defence, as they fell to a 4-0 defeat in Australia. He returned to Ben Stokes' availability to represent Eng-

land at this stage." There is also the matter of the IPL auction, which is set to take place on January 27-28 and in which Stokes was last year picked up as the most expensive overseas signing in the tournament's history. The ECB's chief executive, Tom Harrison, recently suggested it could take six months to a year to resolve the situation if Stokes was charged, as he has now been, although he added that the board would not prevent him from playing in competitions such as the IPL in the meantime, while he is out of the England set-up. Stokes' involvement, or otherwise, with England has overshadowed much of the winter. Having been initially named in the Ashes squad a few days after his arrest, footage was released by a newspaper appearing to show Stokes throwing a series of punches at a man in the street. England subsequently said he would not be considered for selection until investigations were complete. ESPNCricInfo (Caribbeannews.net)

Minister Norton to Vickery: ‘We would love to have you represent us’ WITH 22-year-old tennis star Sachia Vickery signalling her intentions to represent Guyana at the Olympic Games, Social Cohesion Minister Dr George Norton expressed this country’s delight at the news, stating emphatically, “We would love to have you representing us.” Vickery, born to Guyanese parents Rawle Vickery and Paula Liverpool who hail from Region 10, had long been telling the world about her affiliation to the ‘mighty Kaieteur’ and told Dr Norton and reporters at the Minister’s Main Street office, “I might not have been born in Guyana, but I tell people I’m Guyanese. All my family, my parents are from Guyana and people from here support me a lot whenever I play. They would reach out to me personally, or to my mom, so it’s only right that I return.” The diminutive but powerful player’s last visit to Guyana was in December 2015. According to Vickery,

at her meeting yesterday with the Minister who is also responsible for Sport, “My visit now is to meet with a few people, to let them know I’m a part of this country, for them to see me and so on.” Minister Norton pointed out that with Vickery showing willingness to represent Guyana, it could open the door for others who are similarly competing at the highest level within their respective disciplines to follow in her footsteps. Upon learning of the player’s link to Kwakwani through her mother, and Linden thanks to her father who also represented Guyana (in football), Minister Norton said, “You know, it’s no surprise, really. Linden brings out the best and also Kwakwani has produced some really top athletes as well.” Meanwhile, Vickery is expected to meet with president of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) Juman Yassin today at the Liliendaal headquarters, as

Sachia Vickery (third left), along with her mother Paula Liverpool (first left) and team with Minister Norton during their visit on yesterday. (Samuel Maughn photos)

well as Guyana Lawn Tennis Association (GLTA). Vickery is still relishing her well-deserved climb in

the latest World Rankings and is on the verge of breaking into the WTA’s Top 100 for the first time after she had

the best week of her career in Auckland, New Zealand. She not only reached the first WTA semi-final of her

career, but also set a brand new career-high of No.106 in the world (according to the latest WTA Rankings).

Windies U-19 World Cup title defence ends with defeat to SA … 2016 Champions bow out in controversy

West Indies batsman Bhaskar Yadram falls to a catch at the wicket and Wandile Makwetu celebrates. (Photo courtesy ICC Media)

MOUNT MAUNGANUI, New Zealand (CMC) – West Indies Under-19s title defence ended in shambles with a heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa Under-19s, but controversy accompanied their disappointing exit from the ICC Youth World Cup here yesterday. Asked to chase 283 at Bay Oval, the young Caribbean side collapsed from 177 for four in the 39th over to 206 all out in the 46th, to crash to their second straight defeat following their loss to hosts New Zealand Under-19s in their opener last Saturday. Alick Athanaze top-

scored with 76 and Kirstan Kallicharan chipped in with 44 but fast bowler Hermann Rolfes rocked the Windies with four for 33 to put South Africa in command. The defeat left the reigning champions third in Group A without a point thus eliminating them from reaching the second round. To complicate matters, captain Emmanuel Stewart sparked a firestorm during the South Africa innings when he appealed for an obstructing-the-field dismissal and had batsman Jiveshan Pillay controversially given out. The left-handed Pillay

had effortlessly cruised to 47 off 51 deliveries when he inside-edged a drive at fast bowler Jarion Hoyte and then watched carefully as the ball rolled to a stop next to his stumps. However, he subsequently picked up the ball and tossed it to Stewart who then appealed and after umpires consulted, Pillay was given out for obstruction under Law 37.4. Stewart’s actions drew heavy criticism from past and current players, reminiscent of the Mankad incident during the last Under-19 World Cup when West Indies also found

themselves at the centre of controversy. The contentious decision also soured the contest and detracted from South Africa’s innings, highlighted by a superb, run-a-ball unbeaten 99 from wicketkeeper Wandile Makwetu. Gerald Coetzee chipped in with 29 and Kenan Smith, 22, as the South Africans got up to a challenging 282 for eight off their 50 overs after they were sent in. Pillay, who struck five fours and two sixes, put on 56 off 64 balls for the first wicket with Matthew Breetzke (18) before five wickets tumbled for 56 runs to leave the young Proteas tottering on 112 for five in the 27th over.