More Oil No. 104599
FRIDAY, JULY 1, 2016
Price: $80
(VAT Inclusive)
Exxon reports 1.4 Billion barrels-of-oil find Big bank account SOCU probes Omar Shariff for alleged financial crimes
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BK rips Ramotar on corruption 2
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By Ariana Gordon OIL giant ExxonMobil on Thursday announced that a “world-class discovery” of between equivalent of 800 million and 1.4 billion barrels of oil following the drilling of the Liza-2 well in the Stabroek Bloc offshore Guyana. The discovery is the company’s second exploration offshore Guyana; the first was made in May 2015. “We are excited by the results of a production test of the Liza-2 well, which confirms the presence of high-quality oil from the same high-porosity sandstone reservoirs that we saw in the Liza-1 well completed in 2015,” said Steve Greenlee, President of ExxonMobil Exploration
Company. Greenlee said the company looks forward to continuing “a strong partnership” with the Government of Guyana to further evaluate the commercial potential of the discoveries. The Liza wells are located in the Stabroek Bloc approximately 120miles (193 kilometres) offshore Guyana. Data from the successful Liza-2 well test is being assessed. According to the release, the Liza-2 well was drilled by ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, approximately two miles (3.3 km) from the Liza-1 well. The Liza-2 well encountered more than 190 feet (58 metres) of oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs in Upper Cretaceous
formations. The well was drilled to 17,963 feet (5,475 metres) in 5,551 feet (1,692 metres) of water. “This exploration success demonstrates the strength of our long-term investment approach, as well as our technology leadership in ultra, deep-water environments,” said the President of ExxonMobil. The Stabroek block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek block. Hess Guyana Exploration Limited holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 per Turn to page 3 ►
Guyana off TIP watch list 8
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‘ISIS’ man 18 jailed for three years P.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
BK rips Ramotar on corruption ‒ says fmr President sold Gov't tug, barges to brother for next to nothing MANAGING Director of BK Group of Companies, Brian Tiwarie has accused former President Donald Ramotar of corruption, referencing the sale of a tug and three barges to his brother, while he was President for ‘next to nothing’ prices, among other alleged misdeeds. Tiwari made the accusations in a Letter to the Editor of this newspaper in response to Ramotar’s comments, alleging that BK Company was awarded $800M worth of steel from the failed Specialty Hospital project. In a strongly worded letter, Tiwari called for a performance audit of Ramotar’s
presidency and charged that since the former President is talking about transparency and corruption, he must explain how is it that his administration sold to his brother three barges and one tug for a price below $20 million. “His brother flipped one of the barges in a transaction for $50M in a matter of days after purchase. This was followed by a sale by the Ministry of Public Works of another barge valued in excess of $150 million and this was again sold to his brother for a mere $3M, causing the State to lose millions of dollars,” Tiwari said in his missive. He added that Ramotar must also explain the sale
Former President Donald Ramotar
of 25 acres of sugar land belonging to the West Demerara Estates “for chick pea price, again to associates of his brother with his brother being a main beneficiary”. “If steel in containers is a concern of former President Ramotar, he should be equally concerned about the Fiber Optic cable fiasco. The poor service and incompetence of his son as the head of the project, along with the Government engineer allowed for neglect, mismanagement and fraud to be committed against the State,” Tiwari charged. According to Tiwari, contrary to the views of some – that BK International was a favoured contractor of the PPP Administration, “the records will reveal all con-
Businessman Brian Tiwarie
tracts awarded to BK were done so after a bidding process was completed”. “There were some instances where BK was unjustifiably denied contracts even though we were the most competitive bidder. There were numerous occasions when BK had to challenge these injustices through the courts in Guyana. The records will therefore show that BK was no favoured contractor in the PPP regime.” BK QUALIFIED ITSELF Tiwari said too that the records will also show that BK International was the first local company to qualify itself with the appropriate equipment, infrastructure, engineers and personnel, which
allowed it to bid and receive contracts for projects under the IDB, European Union, Caribbean Development and Word Banks, among others. Additionally, Tiwari said Ramotar must answer to claims of the sale of 25 acres of GuySuCo lands at the Boerasirie on the West Coast of Demerara to his relative; what part he played in the near collapse and wrong-doings of GuySuCo, while he sat on its board for all the years; how a 40 foot-container of spares for a barge/ tug valued at US$100,000 delivered to the former President’s brother by a Chinese businessman operating at Land of Canaan; what import duties etc were paid on the said container; how NICIL was able to sell the former President’s brother three barges and one tug for less than G$20 million during his tenure; why was there no tender for this sale; how was his brother able to re-sell one of the barges to a West Coast, Demerara businessman for G$50M; what was the inner workings on the project of laying the fiber optic cable from Lethem to Linden; how and why was the contract for the Ruby Backdam Road awarded personally and directly by the former President to the highest bidder as opposed to BK with the lowest tender; how was Surendra Engineering awarded two Prospecting Licenses in the
North West District; how did a former Attorney General become a Real Estate mogul; how many properties in and out of Georgetown was acquired by the same former Attorney General during his tenure in office; how many hotels are owned, in some cases partially, by the same former Attorney General and to whom were Casino Licenses granted and why. Meanwhile, Tiwari said for those like Ramotar and others who wanted to convey the impression that he jumped ship after the new Government was formed in May 2015, “I want to make it abundantly clear that like every patriotic person in Guyana, I took a conscious decision to support the move for change and this decision was made one year before the 2015 elections. There are numerous persons who can support this. Our manner of doing business was never, nor is not to deal with issues in any underhand way and we urge the former President to get his facts correct when making derogatory statements against a company like ours. BK International will continue to provide support and growth of our nation, while we continue to provide employment for numerous Guyanese for the betterment of themselves and their families,” Tiwari asserted.
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Man burns to death GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
THE unidentified charred remains of a person discovered in the aftermath of a fire that destroyed a Lot 1, area “A” Goedverwagting, Wales, West Bank Demerara home in the wee hours of Thursday morning has been removed by police. Fire Chief, Marlon Gentle said the body was burnt beyond recognition and based on investigation the fire appeared to be an act of arson. According to police, the fire occurred at 01:30hrs and the body of the unidentified person was subsequently discovered among the rubble. Investigations revealed that the home, which is usually unoccupied, is owned by Elizabeth Sattaur, who resides at Timehri East Bank Demerara (EBD). The owner of the house, who is also a businesswoman, said she learnt of the fire from a friend, who called her around 02:00 hrs, informing her of what occurred. She said on arrival at the
scene, the fire was almost extinguished. Approximately 04:30 hrs, firefighters discovered the charred body inside the building. Sattaur said no one was supposed to be occupying the house. She disclosed that the body was found in a stooping position in the bathroom area of the self-contained room in the lower flat of the building. Meanwhile, according to Shameer Mohammed, a resident in the area, many persons only realised that there was a fire when the Wales Sugar Estate fire engine visited the scene during the blaze. He said people from the nearby station visited the scene and broke the locks on the gate to enter the compound. “The police assisted the firemen in putting out the fire; we later hear they find a body in the building. Normally no one lives there, but I hear is the bathroom the body was found, the hearse come and take the body away,” he explained.
More... cent interest.
FANTASTIC NEWS Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman in an initial statement on Thursday following the oil company’s announcement, described the announcement as “fantastic news for Guyana,” while noting that President David Granger will soon address the nation on the oil find. “… certainly, it is beyond expectations,” said Trotman, who added that “We have to settle down to serious business to prepare for it, so that we can manage it responsibly and have the right people in place. The way ahead is going to be defined by the President.” ExxonMobil is currently working to assist the Government in the development of the local oil sector. The oil company, Trotman said, is partnering with the University of Guyana and other institutions in that regard. Additionally, the Natural Resources Minister noted that the regulatory framework for the development of the natural resources sector
is a work in progress, noting that Guyana is receiving assistance from the U.S., UK and Canada. Guyana’s extractive sector “is doing well” said Trotman, who referenced the performance of the gold and diamond sectors over the past year.
RIGHT PATH Meanwhile, outgoing Deputy Chief of Mission at the American Embassy in Georgetown, Guyana Bryan David Hunt, in a radio interview with News Sources Gordon Moseley Thursday morning said he believes that Guyana is well poised to become an oil-producing country. He said the Government of Guyana has already taken steps to prepare for a future with oil. “I don’t think any country that has not been an oil producer is ever well prepared for the discovery of that magnitude,” said the U.S. diplomat, who referenced the second discovery of oil announced on Thursday. He said there is a time lag from the discovery of
The Lot 1, area “A” Goedverwagting, Wales, West Bank Demerara home following the aftermath of the fire
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oil to the production of the commodity, and as such, “there is still time for the Government to do the right things.” The outgoing Deputy Chief of Mission referenced the Sovereign Wealth Fund, and discussions on the Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative, while noting that the move by the APNU+AFC led administration to conduct forensic audits and get a handle on contractual and financial implications while identifying deficiencies in the management of State resources and the reform of procurement systems are all steps in the right direction. He also believes that there must be “better collaboration” between the Government and the Opposition in this regard. “I think Guyana can be ready by the time the oil is ready to come out of the ocean floor,” said Hunt who served three years in Guyana. REVIEW OF CONTRACT Asked to comment on
the discourse between Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Raphael Trotman, on whether the 1999 contract between ExxonMobil and the Guyana Government should be reviewed, Hunt said both parties are correct. While admitting that he does not have enough information on the matter, he believes that the Opposition Leader’s point is valid. He said the view that “contracts between Governments and private companies should be honoured is [an] absolutely correct one.” “The Minister of Natural Resources is also correct that there are times when with agreement of both parties it makes sense to re-look at the contracts in light of new facts,” he said, noting that a re-examination of the contract should be done collaboratively. “I hope whatever is done is collaborative between the Government and the company, which in this case is ExxonMobil and that any changes that are made would be agreed to and beneficial to both sides,” said the outgoing Deputy Chief of Mission. Hunt said too that the sanctity of contracts and its
link to the rule of law must be upheld, as such provides confidence to investors, domestic and foreign. “There are times when you’d want to have a new discussion with the contractor [and] that is not particularly unusual…” he
Stabroek Block that was drilled to 5,422 metres. Venezuela has claimed that ExxonMobil infringed on its territorial claim, and using this allegation, that country’s President Nicholas Maduro issued a presidential decree claiming
It is “fantastic news for Guyana” and “certainly is beyond [our] expectations,” says Trotman remarked. On Wednesday, Jagdeo criticised the move made by Minister Trotman to review the 1999 Exxon Mobil contract. The Opposition Leader told the media that a review of the contract allows for corruption but Trotman argued that “The Government has a right to review any contract that the PPP has signed. We have that right to do so and I think what they are worried about is when we start reviewing contracts, they will be embarrassed. So that is a right that we have as Government.” Last year, Exxon Mobil announced that a “significant oil discovery” had been made in the Stabroek Block. The discovery made in May 2015 was the company’s first on the 6.6 million-acre
sovereignty over Guyana’s ocean front. The move by President Maduro came shortly after President David Granger was elected to office. President Granger described Venezuela’s decree a “flagrant violation of international law,” while contending that Guyana’s western neighbour is trying to “trample on the rights of a smaller country in order to obstruct the sovereign right of Guyana to develop its natural resources.” With the continued discovery of oil by ExxonMobil, Guyana could potentially be on course to become an oil-producing country as Trinidad and Tobago, and Venezuela; countries from which oil has been sourced over the years.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 1, 2016
House clears $799M in supplementary spending THE National Assembly on Thursday evening approved Financial Paper No. 3 of 2015, totaling $799,897,737 for current and capital estimates for the period September 2015 to December 2015 despite rigorous scrutiny by the opposition. The opposition insisted that the funds should have had the vote of the House before a new budget was presented in 2016. But the Government defended its decision, saying that the provisions were unavoidable, unforeseeable and were brought for clearance at the best possible time. The Financial Paper No. 3 of 2015, totaling $799,897,737 for current and capital estimates for the period September 2015 to December 2015 was placed before the House for consideration by Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, but approval was only granted after intense grilling by the Opposition. In the opinion of People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament, Irfaan Ali, the submission of the Finan-
Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo offering clarity to the House on the $11M in supplementary provision made to his office cial Paper to the House was inconsistent with Articles 219 (3) and 220 (2) of the Constitution, which indicate that Supplementary Estimates should be laid in the National Assembly “as soon as practicable”. “The above statements ‘as soon as practicable’ can be argued that if the Minister of Finance is able to have
responded to the concerns raised by the PPP Parliamentarian, saying that the supplementary paper was brought to the House “as soon as practicable.” But this explanation did not sit well with Ali or his colleagues on his side of the bench. Ali maintained that the Financial Paper for supplementary provisions should have been tabled before the 2016 Budget. His colleague, former Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall drew the House’s attention to Article 220 of the Constitution, which indicates that funding can be utilized from the Contingency Fund if the Minister of Finance is satisfied that there is an urgent need for expenditure for which no other provision exists. Nandlall said that while timing is critical in this regard, there is also another requirement which states that expenditure must be urgent and of which there is no other provision. In an attempt to build his case, the former Legal Affairs Minister alluded to the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, which states that the Finance Minister must be satisfied that the expenditures are unavoidable and unforeseeable before advances can be accessed from the Contingency Fund.
Former Housing Minister, Irfaan Ali querying the expenditures made the budget for 2016 laid in the National Assembly, then nothing should have hindered the Supplementary Estimates from being laid prior to the 2016 budget,” Ali said, while alluding to Section 24 (5) of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, which states that “the Minister shall not in any fiscal year introduce more than five Supplementary Bills, except in circumstances of grave national emergency.” After a lengthy suspension, the Finance Minister
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In response, Minister Jordan told the House that Nandlall was clear in his citation, noting that he (Jordan) was satisfied as Minister of Finance that the expenditures were “unavoidable and unforeseeable.” Not satisfied with the explanations given on the part of the Government, the Opposition weighed into the particulars, starting with the supplementary provision provided to the Office of the Prime Minister’s Secretariat. According to the supplementary paper, in addition to the voted provision of $181.1M made to the Guyana Information Agency (GINA) under subsidies provided by the Office of the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, a supplementary provision was made of $11M to offset partial liabilities to the Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) incurred by GINA. In response to a raft of questions put by Ali, his colleagues Nandlall and Bishop Juan Edghill, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo explained that the provisions were needed to pay a percentage of the $74M owed by GINA for political ads advertised in the Guyana Chronicle before May 2015. Prime Minister Nagamootoo told the House that the partial payment was nec-
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essary in order to prevent the collapse of the Guyana Chronicle. He noted, however, that the discovery of this level of indebtedness was only made following the conduct of a forensic audit into the operations of GINA. ADS FOR THE PPP “It was only when we discovered that GINA was draining the lifeblood of the Chronicle that we decided that it was in fact an expenditure that could not be avoided. We could not have allowed the Chronicle to be killed because GINA had placed ads for the PPP in the Chronicle and they did not pay the Chronicle,” he explained. CRIMINAL CHARGES He told the House that in addition to GNNL, other agencies have been coming forward with claims against GINA for the period it operated under the PPP Administration, noting that soon the forensic audit report will be handed over to the police for criminal charges to be laid. The $102M in Supplementary Provision for the settling of outstanding payment to the Caribbean Premiere League (CPL) was also brought into question. But the issue was resolved with a quick response from the outgoing Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes. Hughes, who now holds the portfolio of Minister of Public Telecommunications, said: “This expenditure the Honourable Minister (Ali) should have all the information…because in fact it was your Ministry, on your side of the Honourable House that left this invoice for us to pay.” She explained that the Ministry spent months confirming that a valid contract did exist and that the payment was necessary. “After a very long and detailed investigation, we discovered that in 2014 this was not paid and this sum was indeed owing to CPL.” After hours of scrutinizing the supplementary provisions made, the Financial Paper received the approval of the House.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
President Granger to meet Bouterse in Suriname
PRESIDENT David Granger will today travel to Paramaribo, Suriname to meet with that country’s Head of State, President Desi Bouterse. The brief meeting is expected to see discussions on continental, regional and bilateral issues, which are relevant to both countries. The President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Carl Greenidge will depart today and will return the
…continental, CARICOM, bilateral talks on agenda
President David Granger
same day. In an invited comment, President Granger said that the meeting is a brief encounter between the only two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries and will focus on bilateral and regional relations. “We will be having discussions on issues at three levels; one
is the fact that Guyana and Suriname are both members of the [Union of South American States] (UNASUR) so we are looking at it from that perspective. Secondly, we are looking at our relations from a CARICOM perspective because both of us are members of CARICOM and third,
we are looking at relations at a bilateral level. So it is a brief meeting but we want to cover some ground at those levels before the CARICOM Heads of Government Summit,” President Granger said. The Guyana/Suriname Border issue is also expected to be on the agenda. The Head
of State noted that he expects that the meeting will see some modalities being established so that the two countries can move forward. Guyana and Suriname have shared bilateral ties since the Dutch territory became independent in November 1975. (Ministry of the Presidency)
Hopes for democracy crushed in the Chinese rebel village of Wukan HOPES for democracy in the Chinese village of Wukan, where an uprising against corruption five years ago
gained global notice and led to direct village-wide elections, have all but evaporated, with protest leaders either
in detention, in exile, facing arrest or quitting their posts. Vi l l a g e r s h a v e b e e n marching in protest every day
RESEARCHERS say they have found the first clear evidence that the thinning in the ozone layer aboveAntarctica is starting to heal. The scientists said that in September 2015 the hole was around 4 million sq km smaller than it was in the year 2000 - an area roughly the size of India. The gains have been credited to the long term phasing out of ozone-destroying chemicals. The study also sheds new light on the role of volcanoes in making the problem worse.
10 kilometres above Antarctica in the mid 1980s. Ozone is important because it blocks out harmful ultraviolet radiation from the Sun. Its absence increases the chances of skin cancer, cataract damage, and harm to animals and plants. In 1986, US researcher Susan Solomon showed that ozone was being destroyed by the presence of molecules containing chlorine and bromine that came from chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). These gases were found in everything from hairsprays to refrigerators to air conditioning units. The reason the thinning was occurring mainly over Antarctica was because
of the extreme cold and large amounts of light. These helped produce what are termed Polar Stratospheric Clouds. In these chilled-out clouds, the chlorine chemistry occurs that destroys the ozone. Thanks to the global ban on the use of CFCs in the Montreal Protocol in 1987, the situation in Antarctica has been slowly improving. Several studies have shown the declining influence of CFCs, but according to the authors this new study shows the “first fingerprints of healing” and the ozone layer is actively growing again. (Excerpted from BBC)
‘Healing’ detected in Antarctic ozone hole
SKIN CANCER WORRY British scientists first noticed a dramatic thinning of ozone in the stratosphere some
Police appeal for calm in western Jamaica as they hunt criminals
Head of the police’s Area One, Assistant Commissioner of Police Warren Clarke, is appealing for calm following a series of incidents in western Jamaica, as the police and military intensify their operations and investigations there. ACP Clarke is reporting that investigators have made some headway and have so far arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of 17-year-old Iseca Gayle in Green Pond, St James, on
Wednesday, June 29. He said, also in custody is a suspect linked to both the double murder on Howard Cooke Boulevard and the murder of Jamar Gillis in Flanker on Tuesday, June 28. A firearm, which investigators believe was used in both incidents, was also seized. The assistant commissioner is assuring residents of St James, Westmoreland and Hanover that there will be heightened police/military presence with coordinated
operations geared at curtailing and disrupting the movement of criminals. He is also appealing to residents for their understanding and cooperation as the intensified operations may cause some inconvenience. “As we continue to pursue the suspects, we are asking for the full support of the public in providing information relating to these and other incidents of major crime,” said ACP Clarke. (Jamaica Observer)
since the middle of June in a fresh flare-up of unrest, but the so-called “Wukan model”, with authorities seemingly taking a more tolerant approach towards unrest by kicking out corrupt officials and allowing a free vote, appears to have been a one-off. Wukan is about a four-hour drive northeast of Hong Kong, where a 79-day “umbrella revolution” in late 2014 demanding Beijing allow full democracy, brought chaos to the streets. This time the turmoil in Wukan focused on the arrest by local authorities of elected leader Lin Zuluan, one of the last of the 2011 protest leaders to remain in office, for bribery after he urged demonstrations against
new land grabs and graft. “The corrupt are very proficient in deceiving the people,” the 72-year-old Lin wrote in a signed letter to the village dated March 2, adding that the seized land had been “raped by power, money and gangsters”. In 2011, rampaging villagers ransacked the Wukan police station and government offices before barricading themselves against riot police for months. This time, the villagers have held thousand-strong protests for 12 straight days in sweltering summer heat watched by riot police, with no sign of stopping. ‘COULDN’T BEAR IT ANYMORE’ Lin had become in-
creasingly dismayed with authorities stonewalling attempts to reclaim plots of land knotted up in dodgy deals and for brokering fresh deals behind his back, relatives said. Lin “couldn’t bear it anymore,” said one of his relatives who declined to be identified. “The Lufeng (city) government sold this land, a new piece of land, without telling anyone.” Officially stamped documents provided by people close to Lin and reviewed by Reuters give substance to his increasing frustrations. (Excerpted from Reuters)
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Editor-In-Chief
Nigel Williams Editor
Godfrey Wray
Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com
Editorial
A stubborn City Hall PRESIDENT David Granger’s address to the “mothers and fathers” of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council on Monday, 27th June at City Hall is worthy of study and application. It was a presentation that placed importance on transparency, accountability and responsiveness to the people. And though this address was to elected representatives of that local government organ, said should they be incorporated into every stratum of government and across the Local Democratic Organs, would aid in strengthening governance. In a society where concerns have been expressed about the lack of accountability and in that the President has addressed it, it is hoped that public officials, elected and appointed, should they violate the laws and transgress the rights of citizens, are held accountable in every case. Conversely, citizens should also be held to the same standards. For instance, to erect a structure without the city’s permission is illegal and applying accountability would see the offender subjected to the city’s bylaws. The city, though not unique to it, has numerous cases where persons in privileged positions are allowed to encumber the parapets and determine who parks in front of their homes or business premises, which is a violation of the laws. The parapets of Georgetown, according to the law, belong to the City Council, and ownership of property exists only as outlined in a transport or lease. Making accountability a central element of governance may require revisiting laws, including writing new laws or updating archaic ones. In the absence of doing so, commitment to hold public officials accountable will not achieve accountability. In similar manner, the city and society cannot continue having persons violating city laws and the penalty being infinitesimal. Laws are put in place to regulate behaviour and ensure order. When penalties do not exist for those who violate the law, or if they are negligible, there is no deterrence to cause offenders to comply with the law and chaos ensues. These are the crossroads where Guyana stands in many instances of impropriety. It will be recalled that Professor Clive Thomas in responding to public concerns about the effectiveness of the State Assets Recovery Unit, has made known the need for laws to hold offenders accountable. Returning to the affairs of Georgetown and the President’s address, it is felt that the issue that prompted his presentation is that of the parking meters debacle. Instructive too in this particular issue is that while the Council has certain responsibilities to the town and citizens, the policies that guide City
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Those who suffered under the PPP want APNU+AFC to succeed Dear Editor,
THOSE who had suffered under the PPP/C and/or were disturbed over that party’s mismanagement of the nation’s business, want this government to succeed, for the sake of Guyana and her people. Success will not be achieved when this government continues to repeat the missteps of the PPP/C in handling the nation’s affairs and abuse the people through the transgressing of their rights. There have been one too many instances in this society happening under this government that ought not to be happening, given that when in opposition they had condemned them and moreso, these acts border on disregard for the law, principles governing the management of the nation’s business and the rights of citizens. Let me make it very clear to those who are inclined to label me anti-government or say give this government a chance: on matters relating to the governance of this country, I have a singular interest and focus- I want good governance, now. Consequently, all who hold constitutional office, be they elected or appointed, shall be held to account by me consistent with the established tenets. On matters of this nature, friendship or association is not the motivating factor, but adherence to acceptable universal principles. The trade union movement did not lead the fight for internal self-government (1926) to sit back and allow the principles underpinning governance in the interest of and on behalf of all the people, to be trampled on by any group or party entrusted the people’s privilege to manage their affairs. There are concerns about several issues and the way these are being mishandled by the administration. At this moment, attention is being paid to the labour landscape. It is the first time in independent Guyana where there is no Ministry or Labour and a Labour Minister not being a member of Cabinet, yet workers are expected to turn the wheels of production and increase productivity if there is going to be development. This most vital resource (human) continues to be treated with contempt, of which a few instances are being noted. Today, telecommunications workers are on the streets protesting because the employer is imposing working conditions Hall are vested in the minister, who has responsibility for local government. The Local Government Commission when put in place will have responsibility for employment, disputes and so forth, not for policies. The Minister of Communities, Ronald , has said that he asked City Hall not to proceed in finalising the arrangement for the installation of the meters, while Cabinet has pronounced that it has commissioned an inquiry into the contract for the service. Having listened to the minister and announcement by , it is reasonable to expect that the City Council would suspend further activity on the matter until the inquiry has been conducted and the policymakers have pronounced. The most recent information on the meters is that demonstrations are presently taking place in Georgetown on sensitising persons as to how they will function. This is clearly a case where the city fathers and mothers not only need education and training as to their roles and responsi-
without engagement with the union, which is in breach of the Collective Labour Agreement and Trade Union Recognition Act, Section 23 (1). There still remains contempt by the Government of Guyana for the 2012 High Court’s decision in handling the arbitration matter between the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated and Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union. In the sugar industry, the unions representing sugar workers are being shut out from discussion on what will happen to the Wales Estate and by extension the workers. The teachers’ union continues to witness dilatory acts on the part of the Ministry Of Education in addressing outstanding issues on behalf of the teaching profession. The Public Service Union had to be in the media constantly demanding that the government meet to commence negotiations before government acted some days ago. All of the issues above speak to the respect for the Laws of Guyana and the fundamental right to freedom of association and collective bargaining for workers/citizens which this government continues to be in breach of. Lest this government forgets, when it campaigned to enter office, labour was the major interest group that allowed the group access to share our platform to speak to the workers and citizens. I can say without fear of contradiction that had the workers known that this would have been their lot, i.e. contempt for them, the group that forms the government today would have been in the opposition. Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar as the nation’s Chief Public Servants have committed some egregious acts against workers in this country. Those who yearned for and/or worked to bring change to society did not expect a David Granger/Moses Nagamootoo administration to seek competition in outdoing their predecessors in this regard. Workers expected that when this government spoke about a Good Life, it was a life that every citizen would benefit from. Let me end on a personal note: I want nothing from this government, what I want is that laws be honoured, rights be respected, and time-honoured principles embraced. This opportunity is taken to call on those on the side-line to embrace the tenets of good governance and demand of the APNU+AFC government to do the same. Regards Lincoln Lewis
bilities, but also seem not to have taken the time to understand what is within their remit. The Council’s action to proceed on the meters issue is also communicating that the President’s address just went into one ear and exited the other. Recognising that Monday’s engagement emanated from the outcries of the citizens and some of the representatives on the council, given the response to the society by the Council thus far, it makes the point that City Hall has no regard for the concerns of the citizens or relational roles. The new Council’s conduct in a new dispensation, more particularly where local government elections were denied the people for more than two decades, is setting a troubling precedent. Outside of the subject, as a matter of law and order intervening in this disregard for directive and understanding/respect for the working of the system, there may be need to amend local government legislation to include recall and other sanctions.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Claude Raphael needs to stop peddling false information Mr. Editor, THE Guyana Cricket Board(GCB) continues to execute its mandate regarding the administration of cricket in Guyana in accordance with the Guyana Cricket Administration Act, despite the regular diatribes that emanate ever so often in the national media from a disgruntled few, inclusive of Mr Claude Raphael. We have refrained from responding to those constant, spurious allegations against our board and its members with the hope that the media would in fact check these issues prior to publication but this has not been the case. The board strongly feels that in this instance it is necessary to provide a comprehensive response to the general public on these sore issues and as the head of a successful sports organization, I cannot continue allow misinformation to be peddled in the public domain. My response is to the letter captioned, “Questionable Sports Awards to GCB and Mr. Sanasie,”published in the Kaieteur News and in another daily newspaper. In his letter, Mr. Claude Raphael refers to himself as an “experienced administrator” in these publications circulating in the press. He also signed off as “Former Executive of the GCB” and “Former Director of WICB.” No matter how hard I have tried, the success of Claude Raphael as an administrator has proven deeply elusive. However, what is very easy to find, is that Raphael is involved directly or by association in at least four (4) court matters filed against the GCB and/or its officers and, ironically, some of those said matters were attempting to stop elections at the GCB or DCB. One of those matters was also directed to stop the GCB from being represented at the WICB. It should be noted that Claude Raphael, whilst serving as the GCB’s Chairman of Senior Selectors, was democratically removed as a WICB Director by the GCB electorate in February 2009 and herein commenced his bitterness and vitriol against those persons whom he perceived to have voted against his election as a WICB Director. Most of what Raphael has to say in his letter is addressed hereunder: Mr. Editor, I would like to state the following mat-
ters of fact and allow the public to make their own inferences. The GCB is currently the most successful territorial Cricket Board, both administratively and on the field of play in West Indies cricket. The facts are there to prove it. 2. The only sports association in Guyana with a countrywide structure is the Guyana Cricket Board. By structure I mean development across the country from school to national level at all age groups and clubs. 3. Cricket Guy Inc. is the commercial arm of the GCB and is a requirement for all franchises of the WICB Inc. The WICB has also established a commercial arm. 4. Despite its numerous flaws, the GCB adheres to the Cricket Administration Act as the law of the land. 5. Our Audited financial statements, which are completed annually by a reputable auditing firm in Guyana, has been submitted to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, the Director of Sport, the Deeds Registry and the Minister of Sport. We are still contemplating how to present same to the National Assembly if not through these entities. Perhaps Mr. Raphael can arrange a seat for the GCB in Parliament to make a direct presentation of its audited accounts. I would like to note that the GCB receives no funding from the Government’s coffers and we are not a budget agency. 6. The Guyana Cricket Board has summoned its elections on every occasion when they were constitutionally due. In fact, Mr. Raphael and his cohorts filed the first court matter to stop the GCB elections in 2011, yet still claim that elections are not being held. For Mr Raphael’s knowledge, the current Cricket Administration Act 2014 has created a roadblock to any proper elections process. The GCB even sought the court’s help to resolve same. Article 10 (d) of the GCB Constitution, appended to the Act states “Nominations (with resumes) for all positions on the executive committee of the Guyana Cricket Board must be made and seconded by MEMBERS at the October Ordinary General Meeting preceding the Annual General Meeting at which elections are to be held…”. Please note that the GCB has three members only, namely, the Demerara Cricket Board, the Essequibo Cricket Board and the Berbice
Cricket Board. In October preceding an election year at the OGM of the GCB, when one member makes a nomination for any and all positions on the Executive Committee and another member seconds that nomination, that nomination and election are effectively completed. In practicality, it is virtually impossible for the remaining third member to secure a seconder, hence the positions are filled by a single nomination and seconder. That was the foresight of the authors of this Act ably strayed by Mr. Raphael and his detractors. The GCB PROTESTED against this flawed piece of legislation but yet it is now law. We have to and will abide by this lopsided piece of legislation which Mr. Raphael cannot see any flaws within until it can be corrected. 7. The public should know that Claude Raphael was a member of the PPP Government delegation when the WICB sent a delegation to Guyana to resolve the cricket impasse and the very flawed cricket Bill. The other members of the PPP delegation were Messrs. Anil Nandlall, Frank Anthony, Stephen Fraser and Bissoondyal Singh. The WICB also met with the opposition parties, APNU and AFC, to get their consensus on a revised cricket bill. Everyone agreed on the revised Bill but the PPP representatives objected to the presence of the opposition parties names listed on the MOA. The PPP representatives then never turned up to sign off on the revised draft MOA and the revised Bill, even after the WICB/GCB had agreed to remove the then opposition parties as signatories to the MOA. 8. Mr. Sanasie, the GCB Secretary, also acts as our CEO on a pro bono basis, while all other CEOs of the Cricket Boards throughout the region earn hundreds of thousands per year. The savings to the GCB helps to finance our cricket academy programme. Mr. Sanasie’s business acumen has helped to place the GCB on a sound financial footing. 9. Mr. Sanasie replaced Claude Raphael as the WICB Director in 2009 after free and fair elections at the GCB then led by Chetram Singh. Raphael has been sour ever since then and seems to be on a crusade to discredit everything about the GCB and WICB. We at the GCB welcome constructive criticism. In fact, the public
should ask Mr.Raphael why Stephen Camacho had to demand the return of a passport and Digicel phone from Mr. Raphael after he was ousted as a WICB Director. 10. Claude Raphael, for most of his time spent at the GCB, was an appointed Executive; he never had to face the GCB electorate. In fact, when his name was touted to replace Chetram Singh, then Vice-President, Alvin Johnson, decided to run against him. This was the level of distrust. 11. Raphael served a single term as WICB Director during which time Alvin Johnson attended meetings and not Claude Raphael, so his competence and achievements as a Director cannot be determined. 12. Mr. Raphael’s term as the Chairman of GCB’s National Senior Selection panel ended in July 2011, Guyana’s cricket
went into the doldrums at that stage and during the majority of his tenure. 13. The National Sports Commission now has a transparent process to select Sport Awardees. Firstly, an extensive document was sent out by the Commission for recommendations from all sporting disciplines. These submissions were then submitted to seven (7) independent, unknown individuals across the country. Their recommendations were then collated and sent to a high office of the land, after which, sealed envelopes were delivered at the National Cultural Centre at an impressive presentation ceremony. Transparency and a new beginning alien to Mr. Raphael. 14. The GCB made submissions in all the available categories. We won in two of those categories. I personal-
ly submitted Mr. Sanasie’s name for his dedicated work as Secretary/CEO of the GCB. We are all happy that his personal sacrifices were rewarded. Only a fool would not recognise the success of Guyana’s cricket and Mr. Sanasie. In conclusion, I would like to state that we are proud of our achievements and would continue to push ahead while Claude Raphael continues with his masquerade. I would again state that all sports in Guyana should be governed by a National Sports Policy which includes tax incentives for sponsors to support sports in general. Cricket cannot be singled out. Scrap this flawed piece of legislation. Yours sincerely, Drubahadur President of GCB
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Friday, July 01, 2016
Aries No one could blame you for focusing only on the positive when blinders are already preventing you from seeing the truth. Paradoxically, you have an innocent air of invincibility about you today that makes others trust your judgment. You can get away with pursuing your ambitious goals now because your drive is softened by gentle Venus as she assists enthusiastic Jupiter in your 6th House of Employment. Fortunately, the support of your co-workers enables you to accomplish more than you would alone, as long as you don’t scatter your energy by trying to do everything at once. Taurus Your imagination is inspired these days when your heart is stirred by optimistic daydreams of love and pleasure. Beautiful Venus supports beneficial Jupiter in your 5th House of Romance, allowing satisfaction to come easily if only you stop struggling now. The key to your happiness is to graciously receive what is offered. You don’t need to keep score when you’re with someone you trust. Drop your defences and there’s no limit to the joy you can experience. Gemini Emotional satisfaction might be much closer than you realise now so don’t even think about giving up. Although you are reassessing your priorities, it’s more important than ever to remain singularly focused on your career objectives. Persistence is the secret to your success. Don’t pretend to be shocked if you receive that long-overdue raise or promotion. Nevertheless, you still could be surprised because rewards don’t necessarily arrive in the form you expect. Keeping an open mind allows you to be happy, no matter what. Cancer Discretion is critical today as you handle the awkward cleanup from a recent disclosure. Spilling too many secrets in a giddy moment of optimism could actually cause damage to a relationship. Strong emotional bonds and a sense of compassion help you let go of conflicts and enjoy pleasurable experiences. But don’t agree with others just because it’s the easier thing to do; you’ll earn more respect by establishing clear boundaries now than compromising to maintain the peace. Leo Hard work produces tangible results today, thanks to the activity of propitious Jupiter in your 2nd House of Finances. A sobering Venus-Saturn connection may cool your desires, but it also grants you the patience you need to wait for gratification. Although you might confuse your fantasies with reality, the blessings of the enriching Venus-Jupiter sextile indicate that Lady Luck is on your side. The only failure now comes from quitting too soon.
Virgo Sometimes the grass really is greener on the other side of the hill. Luckily, reaching for new experiences now actually pays off as long as you don’t raise the bar too high. If you seek the impossible, your hope can dissolve into despair. Think twice before taking on another project because even a simple one can end up testing your patience. But if your goal is based on sound logic, you will be more than pleased with the results.
Libra Your charm is your not-so-secret weapon as auspicious Jupiter flatters attractive Venus in your 10th House of Public Life today. You can be especially persuasive if you employ a gentle touch in your approach. Don’t worry if you need to lower your expectations in one situation, because bigger emotional or material rewards will likely appear somewhere else. Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised.
Scorpio You may find resolution today to a recent struggle between you and someone who seems to oppose your every move. Although it might be difficult to get your way at first, uncovering hidden resources coaxes your adversary to step out of your way, enabling you to take definitive action. But problems happen even when everything is looking bright. Adopting a healthy sense of perspective allows you to handle nearly any situation that pops up with grace and humour. Sagittarius Your dedication and sweat equity don’t seem to offer the immediate return you expect for the amount of effort you invest. Fortunately, your persistence has the magical power to turn lemons into lemonade while sweet Venus cooperates with lucky Jupiter in your 10th House of Worldly Success. Happily, you could see a lovely outcome if you just slow down and focus on what needs to be done next. It helps to accept the fact that you can’t control everything; nevertheless, you will be compensated one way or another as long as you demonstrate your willingness to be patient. Capricorn The lingering effects of yesterday’s stress might still be stirring up anger or mistrust. However, it becomes easier to release any negativity as the love planet Venus forms a cooperative sextile with generous Jupiter in your 9th House of Future Vision today. Although you prefer to focus on the big picture now, managing the littlest details of your life is a necessary step toward reaching your goals. Sometimes the most trivial matters are actually the most important. Aquarius Declaring your needs may seem selfish but you’re determined to get what you want today. However, pushing too far could put everyone on edge. Thankfully, a friendly sextile between sociable Venus and broad-minded Jupiter keeps the windows of hope and the doors of opportunity open wide. Additionally, a dash of good humour at the right moment could transform a volatile situation into one that ultimately generates satisfaction. Pisces Staying cool under pressure today earns you positive recognition within a partnership. In fact, others offer a safe haven for joyful experiences now that delicious Venus sextiles buoyant Jupiter in your 7th House of Relationships. Fortunately, you know how to bring out the best in people. Your entire life is enhanced by your optimism, expanding your capacity to appreciate your current blessings and attract even more.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Guyana off TIP watch list
…but US exposes cracks in the system THE United States Government is calling on the Guyana Government to vigorously investigate and prosecute sex and labour trafficking cases here and hold convicted traffickers accountable — including complicit officials by imposing sentences that are commensurate with the severity of the crime. The US made the comments in its Trafficking in Person report, which was released on Thursday. The report also revealed that Guyana was taken off the watchlist for TIP, moving from Tier 2 on the Watch List to Tier Two. Guyana was placed on the Tier Two Watch List three years ago and has since mounted numerous efforts to improve its rating. In addition to calling for holding TIP offenders accountable, the US is recommending the denying of bail and ordering restitution, where appropriate. It also called on the Guyana Government to finalise and issue written procedures to guide and encourage frontline officials, including police, health, immigration, labour, mining, and forestry personnel to identify and protect victims of forced labour and sex trafficking. The United States also wants Guyana to train law enforcement, judiciary officials, and front-line responders, especially those working outside the capital, on victim identification, referral to services, and victim-centered investigations. “Allocate additional staff to the inter-ministerial anti-trafficking unit and provide sufficient funding and resources for it to investigate trafficking in the mining sector and conduct awareness campaigns; provide additional protection for victims to enable them to appear in court and testify against traffickers in a way that does not further endanger them,” the US Government recommended. Washington called on Guyana to increase funding for NGOs that identify and assist victims; take efforts to ensure victims are not summarily deported without the opportunity to assist in a trial against their traffickers; and also that they are not penalised for crimes committed as a result of being subjected to trafficking. The US also called on the government to open and adequately fund the proposed shelter for male trafficking victims; develop child-sensitive investigation measures and court procedures that
protect the privacy of children and minimize their re-traumatization; regularly convene the inter-ministerial taskforce and finalise and implement the 2016-2017 national action plan; offer increased protection and assistance for victims near mining communities outside the capital; and continue to raise awareness of trafficking among civil society. Meanwhile, the US said that Guyana is a source and destination country for men, women, and children subjected to sex trafficking and forced labour. The report stated women and children from Guyana, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Suriname, and Venezuela are subjected to sex trafficking in mining communities in the interior and urban areas. “Victims are subjected to forced labour in the mining, agriculture, and forestry sectors, as well as in domestic service and shops. While both sex trafficking and forced labour occur in interior mining communities, limited government presence in the country’s interior renders the full extent of trafficking unknown.” The US said too that children are particularly vulnerable to sex and labour trafficking, noting that Guyanese nationals are subjected to sex and labour trafficking in Jamaica, Suriname, and other Caribbean countries. Washington also alleged that some police officers are complicit in trafficking crimes, and corruption impedes anti-trafficking efforts. “The Government of Guyana does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so. The government convicted one trafficker, imposed a three-year prison sentence, and required her to pay the victim restitution—the first time restitution has been ordered for a trafficking offender in Guyana.”
personnel to the severely understaffed anti-trafficking unit to facilitate trafficking investigations, nor did it increase protection and services for victims outside the capital or participating in investigations against their traffickers. The government continued to prosecute and punish suspected trafficking victims for crimes committed as a result of being subjected to trafficking.”
FUNDING TO NGO The US report also made special note of government’s provision of $600,000 to a NGO-run shelter dedicated to trafficking victims—the first shelter of its kind in Guyana—to enhance the shelter’s psycho-social services for victims. “The government further increased collaboration with anti-trafficking NGOs by instituting procedures to refer victims to the shelter and including a leading anti-trafficking NGO on its inter-ministerial anti-trafficking taskforce. However, it did not allocate additional
PROTECTION Additionally, the US said that the government increased protection efforts, but victim assistance remained insufficient, especially in areas outside the capital and for male victims, and the government continues to penalise some suspected trafficking victims. “It is unclear how many of the 56 identified trafficking victims were identified by the government and how many by NGOs; the government identified 16 victims during the previous reporting period.
MODEST EFFORTS On the issue of prosecution, the US Government said that Guyana modestly increased its law enforcement efforts. It stated that Guyana reported investigating 15 trafficking cases involving 56 victims, including 16 children, which resulted in seven prosecutions and one sex trafficking conviction, compared with seven investigations, four prosecutions, and one conviction during the previous reporting period. The defendant in the 2015 conviction was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment and, unlike defendants convicted in previous years, was denied post-conviction bail and required to pay restitution to the victim. The report noted that at least one of the defendants in an ongoing prosecution was released on bail pending the outcome of her trial. In response to calls received by the trafficking hotline, government officials conducted raids on mining and logging areas outside of the capital. “It is unclear if authorities removed any victims from exploitative situations or initiated any trafficking investigations as a result of these raids. During the previous reporting period, a police officer was convicted of child sex trafficking and sentenced to four years’ imprisonment, but granted bail pending appeal; his appeal remained pending at the end of the reporting period.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Big bank account
SOCU probes Omar Shariff for alleged financial crimes PERMANENT Secretary of the Ministry of the Presidency (MoTP) Omar Shariff, has been sent on leave by Minister of State Joseph Harmon after he was arrested by ranks from the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) on Thursday. The Guyana Chronicle has been reliably informed that Shariff was arrested in connection with large sums of cash found in his personal bank accounts. Investigators are probing the source of the money. Reports also indicated that SOCU also visited the permanent secretary’s home and removed documents and a safe. In a letter dated June 30, 2016 to Shariff, Minister Harmon told Shariff to proceed on his annual leave effective Friday, so that he could cooperate fully with SOCU during the investigation. “This is [a] money-laundering and tax-evasion mat-
ter, since it’s large sums of money that he has in his personal accounts,” Harmon told online news agency Demerara Waves on Thursday. According to the Minister of State, SOCU’s investigations have nothing to do with Shariff’s role as permanent secretary at the MoTP. “These matters which came up are of a personal nature and they have to do with his own personal, private arrangement and have nothing to do with his actual office of permanent secretary,” he said. Shariff worked under the former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government and is a former senior member of the PPP. He also served as a former head of that party’s youth arm, the Progressive Youth Organisation. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo when questioned at Parliament on Thursday about the recent development, said once the investigations are fair and
Omar Shariff
impartial, then all illegalities found should be dealt with in accordance with the law. SOCU works closely with the Finance Intelligence Unit (FIU) to track possible money-laundering activities. Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communities, Abena Moore, will take up the role of acting permanent secretary at the MOTP.
10 win gold coins in GUYOIL’s Jubilee promotion 10 LUCKY persons were recipients of Golden Jubilee 50/50 gold coins when Guyana Oil Company (GUYOIL) held its first drawing in Berbice at M Ali and Son Service Station on Wednesday. The first 10 names of the 50 winners were pulled from a rotisserie that comprised of drivers who purchased $3000 and more worth of fuel. The winners are Gavin Narine, Javin Ayube, Ricky Byle, Goularran Dukhie, Kenneth Caesar, David Manichan, Ryan Ramsarran, Andy Suram, Riad Nazadeen and Kurt Kenett. Several other persons got consolation prizes of hats, bags, mugs and other items carrying the Golden Jubilee logo. Another draw was held at GUYOIL’s Regent Street location at 16:00 hours on Thursday. The promotion heads to Essequibo this Saturday.
A sample of the gold coin gifted to winners of the Jubilee promotion
Peace Corps volunteers for hinterland communities
TCL Guyana unveils new packaging TCL Guyana Inc unveiled its new cement packaging on Thursday at a seminar on concrete held at the Regency Hotel, Hadfield Street, Georgetown. In attendance were dealers and stakeholders. The seminar was conducted by Danny Jairam, cement and concrete specialist from Trinidad and Tobago, along with TCL officials. According to Jairam, the ingredients in the cement forms Calcium-Silicate-Hydrate (C-S-H) gel. This provides additional strength and makes the concrete grow in strength over the years. He noted that due to the solid state, moisture or water is unable to penetrate the concrete, protecting the steel reinforcement from rusting and thereby prolonging life significantly. In sharing his tips, Jairam said: “Always use potable water when mixing, ensure that your sand and/ or sifting is free from stems, leaves etc and ensure your blocks are properly cured before use and maintain high quality at all times.” According to TCL Guy-
From left: Peace Corps Guyana Director, Linda Arbogast, US Ambassador, Perry Holloway, Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe are all smiles after the signing of the agreement
By Alva Solomon
TCL Marketing and Sales Assistant Latoya Greaves assisting General Manager (International Business and Marketing) for TGI Egwin Daniel in cutting the ribbon to officially unveil the new cement packaging
ana Inc., building a home is a lifetime investment, and as such, the owner should use the best materials that will give the finish and satisfaction they are looking for and truly deserve. In building, whether it is concrete or wood, cement is an important ingredient. If it is a wooden house, the builder needs concrete for the foundation. If it is a concrete house, the builder needs cement for the foundation, columns and
building blocks. Cement is therefore important in the building process. The new TGI Eco Plus and TGI plus sacks help increase shelf life of the packed cement. No spilling, pilferage ensure zero loss of cement during transportation, hence, delivering the full 50 Kg cement to the customer. Unlike ordinary cement bags, it cannot be easily tampered with, adulterated and re-stitched.
A MEMORANDUM of Understanding (MoU), which will see 10 United States Peace Corps volunteers being assigned to several hinterland communities in the weeks ahead, was signed at the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs on Friday. The agreement was inked between the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the United States Embassy, Minister Raphael Trotman, Sydney Allicock and US Ambassador, Perry Holloway signed on behalf of the three parties respectively. According to Peace Corps Guyana Country Director, Linda Arbogast, the MoU
will see the volunteers being placed in communities across Regions One and Nine from September this year. The volunteers, she noted, will complement the 800 volunteers, who have done various stints on these shores over the years. They will serve in the education, health and environmental sectors. “We open the door to a broader Peace Corps presence in Guyana,” she said, noting that the body is open to a community-based approach regarding development of hinterland communities. United States Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway noted that the initiative comes at a pivotal time, as the Government’s move to green the economy and
strengthen its management of the environment. Minister Trotman noted that the MoU was inked at a time when the country is celebrating its 50th Independence anniversary. He also noted American oil giant, Exxon Mobil’s announcement of significant oil find from its Liza 2 well in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, and said that such developments speak of new frontier, not only for development, but also for the environment. Meanwhile, Minister Allicock expressed appreciation for the efforts to have the Peace Corps here, and said the signing of the MoU bodes well for development in communities in Regions One and Nine.
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Don’t limit yourselves ‒ QC graduates charged QUEEN’S College graduates were charged to not limit themselves to the acquisition of knowledge in their respective streams they chose while at the country’s premier secondary school, when the school held its annual graduation on Tuesday. The graduation was a bitter-sweet moment for the students, whether they were graduating after being part of the institution for seven years preparing for the CSEC then
CAPE examinations, for five years preparing for just the CSEC examinations, for two years to write the CAPE examinations or stumbling into this school along the way. The ceremony has also been criticised for the timing as it comes months before the release of the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) results. The ceremony, chaired by Dr. Sophia David Longe, a former Queen’s College student herself, featured pre-
sentations from the graduating classes as they reflected on their time at this institution and motivated each other to be the best in whatever paths they seek in the next phase of life. There was indeed a resounding uproar when one reflective piece duly noted using the words of the famous ‘Dj Khaled’ that as Queen’s College students, “We the best”. Guest Speaker, Dr Suresh Narine, also a former Queen’s College student, focused his presentation on many aspects of life outside
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
The Upper Sixth students celebrate their graduation
of school. He encouraged students to not limit themselves to the areas they have been streamed into, but to expand their horizons. Headmistress, Jackie Benn in her charge to the students, said she is proud of all them. Valedictorian, and no stranger to the pages of any newspaper, Larissa Wiltshire also reflected upon her seven years “that flew by too quickly in this college”. She encouraged her fellow graduates to be strong academic achievers, as well as being a force to be reckoned with in many co-curricular activities. The graduates all walked on stage, for what may be their final time for some of them. The ceremony also featured several musical and other cultural displays. Also present was Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, as well as scores of parents, teachers and well-wishers. The graduation was hosted ahead of the release of CSEC and CAPE results. Meanwhile, one of the graduating students Christopher Belfield in a statement had this to say: “Most outsiders often question the timing of our graduation and how it’s possible to have it without CSEC or CAPE results. A graduation is the conferral of an academic degree or marking the completion of an academic course. For us at Queen’s College, our graduation is for completing the years at the institution, whether the five years or
the additional two. CSEC or CAPE results aren’t necessary for our graduation. However, after results a separate event called ‘Speech Night’ is hosted to reward the performance of the students. Most schools don’t do this. They choose to award their students at their graduation, which means they have to wait on the academic results. Additionally, it’s convenient for us at Queens because many students migrate right after school is closed. And what’s a graduation without an entire family? I’m elated to have spent seven years at the school. It’s definitely a life changing experience, one that cannot be duplicated anywhere. I’m sure the rest of the graduation class mirrors my feelings. And we’re proud to have completed this journey and live up to our motto: Fideles Ubique Utiles; Faithful and Useful Everywhere. Reginae Collegium; Queen’s! Forever. ” Although results have not yet been released, the valedictorian comes from the Upper Sixth Form graduating class, and this decision of making someone Valedictorian comes from the CAPE results of the Lower Sixth Year. Students of this institution have long sought to raise their voices against this matter. Many have sought to defend their Alma Matter on social media platforms, but one thing that is clear is that the Queen’s College students will represent and defend the school as the need arises. (Vishani Ragobeer)
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Misplaced priorities …Region 10 officials should focus on all sections of the 2012 pact By Vanessa Braithwaite LEADERS of Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice) are being urged to align their priorities with the developmental needs of the community and instead of fighting over who sits on the board of a television station, should find ways to create jobs and open up economic opportunities for the citizens of that mining town. General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis, said that the town’s officials should also look at the 2012 agreement made by the Donald Ramotar administration and the people of Linden in totality rather than to focus only on the management of the television station. With the recent controversy concerning the manning of the station reported in some sections of the media, Lewis is adamant that the officials, including the Mayor of Linden Carwyn Holland and the Regional Chairman Renis Morian are giving priority to what is minor when they are other things in the agreement that can bring economic stability to the region. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Lewis said that emphasis should be given to the economic committee that was promised to the people of Linden. “Rather than fighting over who should be on the television board, the economic committee had promised to bring economic relief to the people of Linden and that should take precedence over any other thing right now,” posited Lewis. The trade unionist mentioned that in addition to this committee, the leaders of Region 10 should rally for other companies that were denied a frequency to operate a station in Linden to now have same. He explained that this too will contribute to the betterment of the economy. “Rather than fighting about who should be on the board, these are things that they should look at,” he said. In a previous statement, Secretary of the Region 10 Television Station Board of Trustees Sharma Solomon echoed similar sentiments. He posited then that the acquisition of the television and its functioning in the region is but a small part of the
Gordon Calendar
Councillor Lennox Gasper
21st August 2012 agreement signed between central Government and the Region 10 RDC. Other crucial elements remain , but are still legally required to be met. Solomon had urged the leaders to fight for these elements as the lives of Shemroy Bouyea, Allan Lewis and Ron Somerset were lost fighting for them. “The previous regional administration having secured the return of the television, land selection committee and other stated commitments for the people, this new regional administration that is functioning in a friendly political atmosphere is encouraged to pick up the baton and work with the people for the good of all,” he added. Lewis articulated that the fulfilment of these should not be difficult as the leaders represent the APNU+AFC Government that campaigned to honour the agreement, after the PPP/C government had refused to do so. “When in opposition, they called on the PPP/C to honour the agreement and even brought to the National Assembly a motion to this effect and voted in favour of it.” In addition to the economic committee, the technical committee to look into the electricity issue is still to be fulfilled.
workers being controlled by the politicians.” Also speaking out on the issue was Councillor of the M&TC Lennox Gasper and Councillor of the RDC Gordon Calendar, who voiced their concern over the haphazard way in which selection of representatives of the two organisations to be installed on the Linden Television Station board of Trustees was made. Mayor Holland at a press conference held last Thursday had told the media that at a consultation held with the Prime Minister in Georgetown, he was chosen to represent the M&TC on the Board of Trustees and he then lobbied for an additional person to represent the Council and the Deputy Mayor Waneka Arrindill was chosen. “In my capacity as Mayor, I was one of the original picks on the team and the Prime Minister chose, or the group, the people who were there in the room…so automatically yours truly is on the team…I stood up and I argued my way to have a second representative from the Mayor and Town Council because the team was being put together within the meeting….and I selected the Deputy Mayor being the next in command,” the Mayor related. Councillor Lennox Gasper rebutted this move, saying that he is rather disappointed in the process but respects the decision of the Prime Minister to make such an appointment. He argued that the decision had no need to be made in haste, as the letter was sent requesting the selection of a representative on the day that the Council would have been sworn in. “It was incumbent
MISGUIDED ACTIONS According the Lewis, the actions of the Regional Chairman and the Mayor to decide who should take control of the station are misguided. Lewis stands on the belief that the station belongs to the people. “This television station belongs to the people of Linden, not the politicians. The people have made known that they do not want their television acquired through the blood, sweat and tears of bauxite
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Man, 35, found not guilty of raping girl,13 A DEMERARA Assizes jury yesterday found 35-year-old rape accused Neville Lyttle not guilty of committing rape on a 13-year-old girl. The girl had said that her assailant had repeated the acts several times between 2012 and 2013. Lyttle, who was represented by retired Judge, Mr. Jainarayan Singh, had pleaded innocent. Defence counsel declared
that although the girl claimed that the accused had repeated the offence several times between 2012 and 2013, she was unable to name a single date of any of the incidents. According to the defence lawyer, the doctor’s report disclosed that the girl’s hymen was removed but apart from that there was no sign of bruises or injuries. The girl is now 16 years old.
Misplaced...
From page 11
now on these forums to meet and appoint and therefore duly elect a person that they deem fit to represent them,” posited Councillor Gasper. He further added that it was disrespectful that the Mayor should appoint himself and the Deputy without consulting the Council. Holland, responding to the Councillor’s concern, articulated that in such cases in which decisions are to be made in haste, he acts as “The Council.” “The Mayor or the Regional Chairman acts in such a case as the Council, then when we would have made those decisions it has to then come to the municipality, come to the Council,” he said. Councillor Gasper who believes he is being sidelined along with other Councillors, said: “I feel that there is a deliberate move to hijack this station for personal agenda, we need to put the people’s interest forward and I therefore ask that we follow a democratic approach and this one was not democratic.” Callendar for his part voiced similar concerns to the media about the selection of the three representatives from the RDC being undemocratic. He said that the return of the television came as a result of the 2012 struggle in which three lives were lost. Now that the station is returning to Linden, he claims that persons who were not part of that struggle are being selected without the people of the region being consulted. “The Regional Democratic
Council had no discussion at none of the statutory meetings concerning the TV station; I am saying that is wrong, let us vote the person who we want to represent the TV station,” said Callendar. His other concern is that the board does not have a life span and if these things are not changed, he will mobilise protest action. “If the powers that be do not come and fix this nonsense I am going to mobilise the forces in Region 10 and take to the streets, because these things are wrong; people lost their lives, people got scars going to the grave because of that TV station and this nonsense has to stop,” he exclaimed. He added that this move was for political gains and if the relevant authorities do not come and fix these issues, “they are going to get upheaval in Region 10,” Callendar threatened. Morian in an invited comment echoed the sentiments of the Mayor of Linden and said that between Council, the Chairman is the Council. A Government official present in the consultation held with the Prime Minister posited that it would be inaccurate to say that the Prime Minister selected any member for the Trust and it was rather a unanimous decision by those present to have the current chairman of the RDC be the Chairman of the Trust. The Prime Minister, he said, cannot make such a pronouncement.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Willing and ready
‒ GCCI says it’s ‘open to collaboration with any and every willing organisation’ WITH a mandate to rigidly pursue private sector development, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has a vision that renders it open to collaboration with ‘any and every willing organization’. That’s according to GCCI Chairman, Mr. Vishnu Doerga in his address last Saturday evening at the launch of the Chamber’s Business Development Magazine at the Pegasus Hotel here in Georgetown. Expanding on the idea, Doerga said the GCCI is willing and ready to foster a vibrant and interconnected business community, where-
by collaboration increases capacity, education enhances ability, and advocacy influences authority.
GCCI President Vishnu Doerga speaking at the launch of the Business Guyana Magazine (Photo by Delano Williams)
THE VISION The Chamber, he said, is currently going through a strategic planning phase, in that the secretariat has so far re-drafted the vision for it to be the premier membership-driven business support organisation in the country that businesses join, if they want to network, develop professionally, and grow economically. Said he: “My Vision for the Chamber is that the entire private sector of Guyana rea-
lises that they cannot allow a small percentage of our businesses to continue carrying this immense responsibility; “that every business in Guyana contributes towards the vision, strategies and policies they want to experience; “that organizations like ours can become the drivers of economic growth through the gathering and analysis of data, development of advanced intelligence, and realisation of innovative projects that will transform Guyana into the paradise it deserves to be.” Reflecting on the Chamber’s 127-year history since its establishment in 1889, Doerga affirmed: “We believe the businesses in this room, and the many who invested in Guyana have always meant business, and have rolled with the many punches of our 127-year history as an organisation. “We look towards our speakers this evening - to
Potable water for all …communities along the Linden Highway to get potable water By: Vishani Ragobeer CABINET has approved several contracts for the installation of water transmission and distribution networks and service connections at Kuru Kuru and Kuru Kururu on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. The project is being undertaken by the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI). Installation of a transmission and distribution network at Wayakabra was also approved. The contract at Kuru Kuru and Kuru Kururu was awarded to R. Kissoon Contracting Services for a sum of $47,973,000M, while the contract at Wayakabra was given to S. Jagmohan Hardware Supplies for a sum of $45,495,000M. These investments are part of the GWI’s Expanded Water Distribution Plan and its Water Safety Plans. The move to foster portable water in these rural areas along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway is also part of the Government’s ongoing programme to provide potable water to rural communities that have been denied the human right of having access to potable, clean, usable water. Minister Harmon noted that this programme is endeavoring to improve the quality of life for residents and to make
these communities more “attractive” for residential settlement. Sustainable access to safe drinking water falls under the 7th goal and 10th target of the Millennium Development Goals, commissioned by the United Nation in September 2000. Further, ensuring access to water and sanitation for all is the 6th goal of the Sustainable Development Goals, which was put into effect as on January 1, 2016 and also commissioned by the United Nations. These goals have all been adopted by Guyana and seek to promote human rights of all people across the world. Recently, areas such as Byderabo Hill Top - a community in Bartica, as well as in North Sophia have been granted access to portable water after struggling for a number of years. These are all initiatives which fall under the government’s adherence to the goals agreed upon by the United Nations. In addition to these areas along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, proposed to gain access to portable water, cabinet has also commissioned the rehabilitation of portable water wells in Georgetown, including at Shelter Belt #1, North Ruimveldt Shelter Belt #2, along with Tucville
and Mocha. This contract was awarded to Water
and Oil Wells Inc. for $20 million.
highlight their views for development; we look toward our minister of business for a clear vision in terms of national economic development.” He concluded his presentation by thanking his colleagues for promoting the benefits of joining the Chamber, noting that last year alone, their collective efforts saw a record increase in membership of 32 new
members, and for this year to date, another 26 new members. Among distinguished guests at the event were: Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin; Members of the Diplomatic Corps; Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, Mr. Edward Boyer; and members of sister business support organisations and partners in development.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Magistrate Isaacs testifies in ‘Picture Boy’ re-trial By Michel Outridge AS the Cyon “Picture Boy” Collier 2006 re-trial continues in the High Court before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and a 12-member jury, Magistrate Sherdell Isaacs was called to testify on Thursday. Closing submissions will be heard on Friday after which the judge will sum up,which will be followed by the verdict early next week. Collier is facing trial for the 2006 murder of Victoria residents Ray Walcott called “Sugar” and his brother Carl Andrews known as “Alo,” after his two trials ended in
Double-murder accused, Cyon ‘Picture Boy’ Collier
“hung” juries before different judges. It was reported that the accused allegedly rode up on a motorcycle, briefly interacted with a group of men playing a friendly game of dominoes at Victoria Four Corner, East Coast Demerara, and then pulled a gun and shot at them. When the dust had settled, two men lay dead. They were identified as Walcott and Andrews, who are brothers. Some 12 days after the fatal shooting of the brothers, a party of about 30 police officers and soldiers found
Collier at a house at Lot 23 Bachelor’s Adventure at 05:00hrs with a number of guns and ammunition, including an AK-47assault rifle. Collier was told of the allegation and arrested. Reports indicated that Andrews was shot at least three times and he died as a result of perforation of the lungs from a single gunshot wound, but both siblings died as a result of multiple gunshot injuries. On Tuesday, the State closed its case after calling several witnesses, including a witness, who could not be located for the other two trials. Collier was called on to lead his defence and he elected to give an unsworn statement from the dock, where he chronicled his movements leading up to the shooting on September 23, 2006 and thereafter. He told the court that he was not present at the scene of the shooting, nor was he around that area then even though witnesses placed him at the scene before and after the incident which claimed the lives of the two siblings.
Friday, July 01, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Saturday, July 02, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Sunday, July 03, 2016 - 14:30 hrs
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Parking meter controversy
City Hall full steam ahead despite AG’s review Greene, was captured interacting with the parking meter. King accompanied the mayor and two other councilors, Junior Garrett and Oscar Clarke, to Mexico City, Mexico and then to Panama, where the Georgetown delegation met with officials from those coun-
State Minister, Joseph Harmon
EVEN as the David Granger administration awaits the Attorney General’s advice on the controversial contract for parking meters throughout Georgetown, City Hall is pushing ahead with the project, which Mayor Patricia Chase Green says will commence on September 1. But State Minister, Joseph Harmon is clapping back in face of City Hall’s adamancy to move ahead with the project. “Cabinet’s commitment was to review the contract and Cabinet will review the contract,” Harmon reminded the press corps yesterday, adding that whatever action City Hall is taking at this moment, “whenever the Attorney General advises Cabinet, Cabinet will take the necessary action.” Last week, Harmon announced Cabinet’s interest to look into the contract, which the city administration has kept under lock and key for fear of the idea being copied. That contention has been debunked as ludicrous by the city administration’s critics. According to Harmon, if there is any illegality
Town Clerk, Royston King inspects one of the parking meters expected to be rolled out on September 1
arising from the review of the contract, then the city’s administration would become subject to the actions of the state’s authorities. Minister Harmon’s announcement preceded President David Granger’s visit to City Hall on Monday, where he addressed an extraordinary statutory meeting of the city’s councilors who came into office last March after local government elections were held for the first time in 23 years. The President’s visit marked the first of its kind by His Excellency, where Mr Granger engaged with city councilors on the parking meters matter that has infuriated Georgetown’s denizens. President Granger in his
address called for councilors to reflect on their commitments to the city’s citizens, and not to their own interests or to the interests of political parties they would have contested under. President Granger’s party, the APNU+AFC, currently holds 25 out of 30 seats on Georgetown’s city council and similarly holds the majority in the council’s finance committee. Immediately following the President’s visit, the city administration rolled out a model of the proposed parking meter for display in city hall’s compound. The city’s town clerk, Royston King, who was recently chastised for his involvement in a shady trip to Mexico City, along with Mayor Chase-
tries unbeknown to the rest of the Georgetown’s elected representatives. The team, which also included councilors Junior Garrett and Oscar Clarke then made their way to Panama for a similar meeting with Panamanian officials on the parking meters. Revelations of the logistics were
only made to the Council while in route to Panama. Harmon is now saying that even with confidence at the city administration’s level that the project will be implemented by the first day in September, the advice given by Attorney General, Basil Williams to Cabinet will be acted on.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Land of Canaan residents plead for roads to be fixed RESIDENTS of Block ‘Z’ Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara, are pleading with the authorities to fix the main access road to the relatively new residential housing scheme. Residents say the road is virtually impassable. Immediately on turning off the main East Bank thoroughfare, en route to the scheme, one is greeted by huge crater-like potholes and the same obtains as one continues the journey. Now that it is raining heavily, the water-filled craters spanning the entire width of the road make getting into and out of the scheme a virtual nightmare. At this point, residents are saying “Enough is enough!” and are calling on the authorities to intervene on their behalf. It’s a risk for motor cars to attempt driving through the floodwaters, they say, with one of
the fears being getting stuck. Parents invariably have to fetch children on their backs to get across, one at a time, until the arduous task is completed. But more recently, there has been a problem with garbage-disposal, since the garbage trucks are now refusing to venture into the area. The water distribution mains in the area continue to be seriously threatened, with residents recalling that in the past, a pipe was crushed by a vehicle driving into the area. One resident who sells chickens is facing the brunt of the hardships, since customers no longer gain access to make purchases and supplies cannot be taken out. Residents recall that it has been a long time since the roads in the small neighbourhood have been in this condition, with virtually no help from the Neighbourhood authorities, they claim.
From time to time they (the residents) would come together and do whatever they could to patch up holes, but now the size of the holes has vastly outgrown what they could manage. As property owners who have to pay rates and taxes, they feel they deserve a better deal, and are appealing for some measures to be put in place, which would at least bring them some shortterm relief, until such time as budgetary expenditure could be undertaken. This newspaper learnt that there are two sawmilling operations in the area and the damage to the road is caused by trucks constantly going in and out. Chairman of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Dwarka Nauth, explained that major infrastructural work is required to get the road back in shape, but this is beyond
Please do something about our roads before it’s too late, residents of ‘Block Z’, Land of Canaan plead
the ability of the Council. He said that as soon as the rainy weather con-
ditions ease, the Council would see what could be done to place some
road-building materials to bring about some relief.
Cops in court over escape of prisoners TWO police officers were on Thursday placed on self-bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan after being accused of allowing three prisoners to escape while in their custody. Forty-year-old Police Corporal Jessie Brown of Annai Village, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo, along with 26-year-old Constable Dawnley Joseph of Lot 609 East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, denied the joint charge. Particulars of the offence alleged, that while the two officers were stationed at the Lethem Police Station between September 16 and September 17, 2015, they allowed Don Peters, Michael McDonald and Tiagio Da Silva to escape through their negligence or carelessness. The duo was represented by attorney-at-law Jerome
Khan, who pointed out that Brown had served the Guyana Police Force for over 20 years, while Joseph had joined the force six years ago. According to Khan, on the days in question, Brown was the subordinate officer in charge of the Lethem Police Station while Dawnley was under his command. The lawyer pointed out that the police station is about 40ft away from the lock-ups and the prisoners had escaped in the wee hours of the morning. Other prisoners in the lock-ups raised an alarm, but the men had already made good their escape. Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones made no objection to bail, but disclosed that both officers were on active duty when the men escaped from their station. Magistrate McLennan released the officers on their own recognizance
and transferred the matter to Lethem Magistrate’s Court for August 29. The three men had all been on remand for various offences, including break and enter and larceny. They managed to cut through the lock securing the station lock-ups and made good their escape on Thursday, September 17, 2015. Police say Don Peters is 28 years old and his last known addresses are St. Ignatius, Central Rupununi and Bom Fin, Brazil. Michael McDonald is 20 years old and his last known addresses are also listed as St Ignatius, Central Rupununi and Bom Fin, Brazil Tiagio Da Silva, 28 is a Brazilian by birth.Because the men have connections in neighbouring Brazil, it is widely believed that they have fled there.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Baby Heart Foundation records 99% success ‒ plans to establish first paediatric ICU at GPHC
moved to extend the size of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and create a paediatric ICU, which allows for the separation of children from adults and seniors. The unit, Dr Soto said, would also be the first of its kind in Guyana. Millions in equipment have already been added to the unit. Dr Soto indicated that they looked for what the GPHC is lacking and aim
Bio-mechanic and member of the BHF, Roy Morris, showcases some of the equipment to be used in the Intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital
Dr Rodrigo Soto explaining the work of BHF to the Guyana Chronicle
By Navendra Seoraj THE Baby Heart Foundation (BHF) has to date successfully completed 69 heart surgeries on Guyanese children, but has lost one patient due to the severity of the child’s condition. Since joining forces with the Government of Guyana in February last year, the BHF has been working extensively to save lives and train Guyanese doctors to perform surgeries in their absence. And, as promised, subsequent to their last visit, the team returned earlier this month to mark their fifth mission to Guyana with a brigade of 27 persons. During their time here, they were able to complete 13 surgeries and 14 interventional procedures at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). This is according to Paediatric Cardiac Surgeon and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Clinical Operations at the International Children’s Heart Foundation, Dr Rodrigo Soto, who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle
on Friday. “Unfortunately, this time around, we lost one patient due to the severity of the patient’s condition. We tried our best but weren’t able to save the child,” lamented Dr Soto. During their first trip here, Dr Soto had indicated that Guyana has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the region. This translates to about 30 deaths per 1,000 live births. However, on Friday, he disclosed that since the commencement of their operations, the infant mortality rate has been at one per cent, as compared to the U.S., which stands at three per cent and Europe five per cent. Nevertheless, he stressed that Guyana has a long way to go when it comes to building capacity of its physicians and nurses to handle these cases. “We have learnt that there is a lack of good training of nurses and doctors in intensive care, so we started to do our own bit of training programmes. However, it will take at least five years before we can really see progress,” he said, but noted that commitment is needed to achieve this goal. This is also added to the fact that in the coming years, they hope to drop the number of persons on their team to Guyana, once they have efficiently completed their training exercises with the locals. To boost their enthusiasm and chances of achieving their goal, Minister of Public Health Dr George Norton has allowed the team to make a visit to Guyana four times a year, as compared to the past when they were making only three visits. As such, with their extended visits, the BHF has
to equip the unit with all the essentials. The Baby Heart Foundation is a non-profit organisation that is based in Memphis, USA and has been in existence since 1993. According to Dr Soto, the organisation provides paediatric cardiac services around the world. It has been able to offer paediatric heart care through the expertise of mainly volunteer medical practitioners to 33 countries, and has thus far completed 7,604 surger-
ies.
Its contributions to these countries has allowed for many of them to eventually offer crucial paediatric services independently. “The modus operandi is to build a team, travel to the site that we decided on and we do two-week trips during which we do surgeries, but we do the surgeries actually to transfer knowledge and to educate the local team. So building capacity is what we are here for,” said Dr Soto.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
‘ISIS’ man jailed for three years THIRTY-FOUR-year-old Terrence McLean was on Thursday jailed for three years for attempting to rob the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) in the name of a notorious terrorist group – the Islamic State. McLean appeared before City Magistrate Judy Latchman and pleaded guilty to the charge, which alleged that on Monday, June 28 at GBTI on Regent Street, he demanded for himself the sum of $10M from Dahana Ramjist with intent to steal said amount. The unrepresented man showed no signs of remorse and was seen sleeping in the prisoner’s dock before his matter was called. When he was questioned by the magistrate for his reasons for attempting to rob the bank, the man smiled and said: “They [employees] should have handed over the money because if a next person come in with a bomb they all will die.” Surprisingly, the man further expressed disappointment in the way the Bank handled the security threat and deemed it “flawed.” According to the prosecution’s facts, which was read by Assistant Superintendent of Police Vishnu Hunt, on Monday, June 28 around 9:20am, the accused entered the bank and requested to speak with the manager. McLean then handed over a note to Ramjist (the officer in charge of the bank card centre) stating “ISISthere is a bomb in this bag, give us $10M or you all die,” after demanding the cash. Immediately, an alarm
Terrence McLean
was raised and the police were summoned to the location. Upon the police’s arrival, McLean dropped a haversack he had in his possession and shouted “Allah Akhbar”. The bag was subsequently searched by ranks of the force, but nothing of evidential value was found other than some documents. The matter was adjourned for a few minutes by the magistrate, while she made her decision pertaining to McLean’s sentencing. The defendant however used the few minutes to continue sleeping as he lay stretched out on the prisoner’s bench in the docks. The magistrate then re-convened court and sentenced the unemployed defendant to the maximum penalty attached to the charge, after considering the seriousness of the offence, the manner in which the money was demanded and the impact of the incident on society and the bank’s staff.
Pensioner in court for allegedly severing man’s hand
ON Thursday, a resident of Berbice was remanded to prison when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates Court for allegedly severing another man’s arm during a fight. Raymond Fredricks,77 of Plant Site Kwakwani Park, Berbice, was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge which read that on Saturday, June 27 at Kwakwani Park, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Kellon Vandenberg with the intent to maim, disfigure or to cause him grievous bodily harm. The prosecution revealed that Vandenberg had his hand amputated and is currently critically hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital. The magistrate remanded the accused to prison and transferred the matter to the Kwakwani Magistrates Court for July 15.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Keisha Edwards receives ‘Award of Excellence – Fashion Innovation’ at Caribbean Style and Culture Awards By Jasmaine Payne EVEN as the local Arts industry continues to develop, young Guyanese artists have in the recent past continued to chart courses for themselves by opening up their horizons and making memorable marks on local, regional and international platforms. Since appearing on the local fashion scene eight years ago, the work of Keisha Edwards struck the Guyanese public with a unique essence that the public had rarely seen before. Her brand ShaSha Designs has continually stood out with a quality that placed her among the top echelons of the local industry, and even with her success, Keisha has continued to make her mark with a silent, humble stride of distinction. M o s t r e c e n t l y, t h e young designer received the ‘Award of Excellence – Fashion Innovation’ at the 2016 Caribbean Style and Culture Awards in Maryland, USA, in recognition for the impact she has made in the fashion industry. The award has in the past been described as one which “exemplifies the innovation of Caribbean fashion through unique and compelling designs, production and presentation”. In an interview with The Buzz, Keisha said that the award is timely, referring to it as a light on a path toward establishing ShaSha Designs as a well-known Guyanese and Caribbean brand. “We have been working on collaborations within the region in an effort to not only build the business, but to promote and develop Guyanese fashion and make it part of the regional growth of the creative industries. [This award is therefore] encouragement that, though we are nowhere near where we want to be, we are on the right path,”
Keisha Edwards just after receiving the ‘Award of Excellence – Fashion Innovation’ at the 2016 Caribbean Style and Culture Awards in Maryland, USA. she said. and Caribbean trends and Transformation and the cultures,” she said. “Big Pond” In a big pond such as the Of course, as with any fashion industry – which in creative mind, years of op- itself is also fickle- it is easy eration no doubt bring with for “small fish” to struggle to them transformation. Look- stand out. Keisha said, howing back, Keisha stated that ever, that in these times, it is ShaSha Designs has been re- critical for designers to know invented many times over the their market and make clothyears so as to stay “fresh”, ing that would be suitable for while sticking to its signature those in it. “People should aesthetic of innovative cuts, not only trust the clothing, symmetrical lines and unique they should trust the brand,” colour blocking concepts. Keisha said, adding that com“My creativity is fueled by petition with the ready-made my inspiration. With the industry of boutiques and othlaunch of [my line] Rebirth er forms of mass production in 2015, we did a major can also be difficult, which is overhaul of the design style why she advises that building of the brand and began to personal relationships with focus more on the “Caribbe- clients is key, so as to build an-ness” of the clothing we brand loyalty. create. This is important for us as a brand to always be a LESSONS LEARNED representation of Guyanese And even with her ex-
perience, Keisha admits that she is still learning and has over the years received helpful advice from others about marketing and other areas of her work that could help in the overall polishing of her brand. “In 2009, I got advice from a local designer, Sydney Francois, who told me that I needed to improve my fabric choices for certain dress styles. This caused me to re-evaluate this aspect of my business, which led me to do a “Fabric Selection and Design Style” programme in New York in 2014 at Parsons [School of Design],” she said. Most recently, Keisha also received advice from the editor of She Caribbean Magazine who advised on the importance of labelling each piece of clothing that is created. All these tips, Keisha said, have helped her to grow in her craft. In the last two years alone, ShaSha Designs has produced four collections, including her bridal line Garden of the Brides. Her most recent collection Moonlight Stories was launched this year and showcases a modern interpretation of Guyanese Folklore. The line was displayed at a fashion showcase in St. Vincent, at the 50th Anniversary Jubilee Fashion Extravaganza in Guyana and at the Caribbean Style and Culture Fashion Showcase in Maryland where she was presented with her award. Keisha is thankful to those who have supported her including Sasha Sandy and Anya Thomas, colleagues who assisted in her trip to receive the award. Currently, Keisha is preparing to host her first independent fashion show after four years which is scheduled to be held at the Roraima Duke Lodge on July 23.
A piece from Moonlight Stories showcased in St. Vincent’s Carnival Couture Show (Photograph by Bill Mortley)
One of the pieces from Moonlight Stories
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 1, 2016
A cultural policy is a civilising rite of the national being
A NATION our age must incorporate the enabling and protective policies that will allow the flow of its creative currents; policies which will allow the smooth transition of creative ideas to move from imagination to fruition. Unlike past ages,
today the individual experience of a talented person can command debate, and based on the substance of its expression, can triumph and add to the human experience while utilising the legal framework of this age. This column was intend-
ed to shy away from politics, but because politics has imposed its tentacles in every sphere, politics will stand accused, and at times commended. In an issue of the political column ‘Peeping Tom’ in the Kaieteur News dated June 14, the writer
attempted to address the creation of Cultural Policy for Guyana by stating that there is a difference between ‘Cultural Industries and the Industry of Culture’. The contents of this article suggest that the area of Cultural Industries has escaped the comprehension of the writer. Ruel Johnson- who is the subject ministry’s point man and chair of the stakeholders on Cultural Industries- responded effectively in letter dated June 17,2016. In most cases in Guyana over the last thirty years, creative persons from within all industries have existed outside of the framework of any kind of legal or other recognition. If a team were to arrive in Guyana to shoot a short commercial movie; we have no structure through which they can pay taxes for that venture or any existing policy for an employment percentage of local talent. If a company shoots an advertisement anywhere in the world -including the Caribbean- that ad has an expiry date and is subject to royalties. I have a friend who works in the insurance business, the company used him for an ad and has used that ad with him as the poster image for over ten years, without paying him anything more than the initial cost to shoot the ad. This is
because we in Guyana do not have an existing cultural policy in place at this time to remedy any of the above economic discrepancies that deprive citizens from earning. With a Cultural Industries Bureau collaborating with CARICOM nations on such exchanges, royalties would go to actors and writers. Of course, royalties don’t amount to much but collectively they can make a difference. The ARTS are utilised ‘opportunistically’. Use the example of CARIFESTA X- 2008, the art community was pushed into the corner by state obstacles. Going to the National Cultural Centre was eclipsed by almost weekly imported acts; we had become an alcohol society. All cultural activity was stimulated by the taste of private citizens. The one person who can be credited with gathering the arts community for that occasion was Dr. Paloma Mohamed, because she knew and had worked with most of us over the years. She raised the anthem of Guyanese nationalism and we edged forward. Before that, there was no progressive government policy of engagement with the arts community. Many of us were seen and treated as extensions of the Peoples’ National Congress Reform
(PNCR)- don’t ask me why. With Dr, Mohamed, came the designation of Director of Culture -in name onlybecause the PPP foisted a CEO, Nigel Dharamlal without any cultural knowledge base to direct CARIFESTA X. The rest is history. With such examples of creative backstabbing and impoverishment and with significant loss to the nation economically and aesthetically, how then can we begin the ’civilising’ of Guyana without both a Cultural and Sports Policy in place? The fact that none of the ‘Promoters’ have developed one local talent, as was done before when it was mandatory to include local talent at imported concerts is perhaps what led veteran musician Dave Martins’ article in last Sunday’s in which he spoke on the need for the reorientation of persons in the local music industry. I have a friend who no doubt has the largest collection of Chutney songs in the country: Pete Ramkomar whose band, Pete’s Caribbean Fusion, band went into the Indo Guyanese market with original talent. Pete produced labelled cassettes, he sold one cassette to a record bar and they pirated his work and made the money he should have made, so he went out of that business. This was all because ‘we’ in Guyana neglected to see the economic value of Cultural Industries, and failed to do what is being done now, to produce a Cultural Policy, which smaller nations in the Caribbean have already put in place. Cultural Industries transcend our meagre markets, but with the current options for world trade, we have no sensible choice but to address our interests to get paid in every area through the establishment of an effective Cultural Policy.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
The Jubilee Writing Competition Winner’s Row (Part 2)
Sonia Yarde
THE Jubilee Creative Writing Competition welcomed entries from local writers in the categories of Prose, Poetry and Drama. Among the entries received, three winners were chosen from each category. Emerging from this competition are eight talented writers whose work were deemed the best of the lot. Some of them you may have heard of, others are now making their mark, but above all, these young people have lauded the exposure provided through the writing competition and express hopes that the venture will give rise to more frequent platforms that will give local writers a chance to have their voices heard. This week, we continue with profile features of the winners of the competition. CINDYA KHELLAWAN, 20 Cindya won second place
in the Poetry category for her piece “Guyanese Country Life” and is extremely happy about it, as it is her first time entering a competition. After finding out about the competition on the Jubilee website, the 20 year old decided to submit one of her pieces. “Poetry has always fascinated me and many times I would explore by writing poems which never really went out of my friendship circle…[after I heard about the competition] there and then I said to myself, ‘Aha! I’m going to give this a shot’,” she said. Cindiya figured that this would be a great way to share her work with new readers while participating in a memorable event for Guyana’s 50th Independence. Asked about the inspiration for her chosen piece, Cindiya said that growing up in the country and observing the way of life there inspired her to write that piece. “I’m
Cindya Khellawan
also in love with the Creole dialect and I believe it is one of the best accessories of country life. I’m proud of where I came from and so I decided to put together a piece embracing country life in Guyana,” she said. Now that the competition is behind her, Cindiya wishes that there would be some creative mentoring programmes that could help to raise the standard of local writing and which could also assist writers in getting their work published.
NIRMALA NARINE, 28 While her name is perhaps most associated with theatre, this actress is also a writer, and has been writing poetry and short stories for quite some time. After hearing about the competition through the National Drama Company- of
Buzzing this weekend IT LOOKS like tomorrow there will be no shortage of options for those looking for a good time. Here’s what’s happening over the weekend: Tomorrow If you missed last week’s benefit concert for actor and comedian, Henry Rodney, then visit the Theatre Guild to witness yet another spectacular lineup of artistes put on a show in aid of raising funds for his medical expenses. Performances will be done by local favourites such as Juke Ross and Kwasi Ace and will also include comedic and theatrical performances from many beloved thespians and other performers. Tickets cost $1,500. Show begins at 20:00hrs.
By now you must have heard of the popular summer song ‘Over Dweet’, well Gravity Lounge is throwing a party to match. Make sure you show up and ‘over dweet’ to the sounds of Dj Shizzle and other popular DJs. Everyone free before 22:00hrs ! We haven’t heard about the Loft Nightclub in a while, but this week, the once popular Alberttown night spot will host a Caricom Soca Party from 19:00hrs. Party to the sounds of Allison Hinds, Machel Montano, Krosfyah and many more. First 50 ladies are free. Admission is $2,000. The Aura Lounge at the Pegasus Hotel will host the ultimate party for the social media butterflies.
“My Snapchat Party” will have your Snapchat photos featured throughout the night in an interesting spin on the party scene. Event starts at 20:00hrs. Tickets cost $2,000 and are available at the Pegasus front desk. SASOD Guyana will host its Neon Glow Pride Party at the Dutch Bottle Café on North Road as a means of bringing the curtains down on their LGBT Pride Month celebrations. The first 20 partygoers who arrive before 22:00hrs will be treated to complimentary neon-themed cocktails, while the first 10 couples to arrive before 22:00hrs will receive complimentary neon body painting. Tickets cost $1,000.
which she is a member- Nirmala submitted her short story “The Dare” which resulted in her winning second place in the Short Story category. The story follows a young boy who died while performing a dare in a grave yard and wasn’t aware of the fact that he was dead until he witnessed his friends visiting his grave. Nirmala admits that like this piece, many of her pieces follow a similarly dark theme but that she was excited to be chosen as one of the winners especially since this is the first competition she has ever entered. SONIA YARDE Hers is another name that
Nirmala Narine will ring a bell due to her years in the theatre industry. It is no wonder that this actress and writer’s one act play “Mummy” – which itself has won awards in previous drama festivals- won second place in the Drama category. Sonia heard about the competition one day before the deadline, and after making some quick tweaks, submitted a few of her plays for consideration. “Mummy” explores sexual abuse that occurs through the generations and Sonia said that in writing the play back in 2014, her aim was to portray this societal ill and the effects of it. “I wanted to highlight that it has been happening in families and
sometimes even the mothers have the knowledge of it. They go through it and see their daughters go through it and their daughters’ daughters and don’t do anything,” Sonia said. Placing among the winners of this competition puts yet another feather in her cap, Sonia added, as she has won a number of other awards herself. “I feel like I’m at the height of my career, plus this is the Jubilee so it feels great,” she said. Next week, we will feature the final group of winners of the Jubilee Writing competition and their thoughts about their work the local writing industry.
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‘Your culture is your identity’
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 1, 2016
The Surama Culture Group, preserving the Makushi culture in Guyana
Jean Allicock(third from left) and members of the Surama Culture Group in their traditional wear. WHEN music and culture specialist, Glendon Allicock, travelled abroad as part of the European Union En-Compass Project from 2010 to 2012, he found that the dying culture of the indigenous peoples was a phenomenon that was occurring, not only in Guyana, but in other countries as well. This observation only reconfirmed the mission that he had long since
committed to in his native village of Surama in Region 9: to ensure that the culture of the Makushi (also Macushi) people of Guyana is kept alive. Together with his wife Jean, the two have for the last 20 years taught and mentored the youth of Surama village in the ways of the Makushi people through the established Surama Culture Group. Having both been
brought up in the traditional ways of the Makushi Tribe, the Allicocks- both of whom are extremely passionate about their culture- felt it was their duty to impart in the younger generations the songs, dances and other practices of their people. “Your language and your culture are your identity,” Glendon said, in an interview with The Buzz, “You cannot be who you are not.
You have to be who you are and be proud of it too.” In the beginning, Glendon said that the idea to form a group surfaced when he observed that the children in the village were not speaking the Makushi Language. His first attempts, therefore, were made to teach the language to them. But due to the necessity of the English Language to earning jobs outside of the Region, the interest to learn to speak only in the Makushi tongue dwindled. “So later, we came together as a group and restructured. We thought that if we can’t have the children talking the
language, we will teach them the songs and the culture,” he said. Today, the Surama Culture Group has not only mentored scores of children from the community over the years, but now stands as one of the most popular Indigenous culture groups in the country. Apart from teaching the culture, the group has also performed the traditional dances and songs at various cultural events including Carifesta X in 2008 which was held right in Guyana, as well as the 2014 Independence Celebrations of neighbouring Brazil. “We have learned all the traditional ways from our parents and so it is wonderful to continue to teach it to children as they come along and that keeps us going,” Glendon said proudly. He added that the partnership that he and his wife share allows them to cover a wide range of areas in teaching their culture, with the pair working together on composing songs and choreography, while Jean also assists in telling stories and teaching the children useful lessons learned about their natural surroundings. Jean prides herself in her Makushi culture, and admits that the teachings passed on from her mother and grandparents have helped to carve her into the woman she is today. “I love when the children ask me to tell stories; it helps to keep the culture alive. All the things I did as a child like visiting the Shaman, learning about the plants, listening to the spirits that the shaman communicates with- all those things are now a plus to my life and
now as a culture leader I am using those experiences to teach to the younger generation,” she said. Jean added that her spirituality has also taught her to appreciate the negatives in her life and turn them into positive situations. “[Before I met my husband]I was a single parent and it was a difficult time for me, but I believe that if I wasn’t a single parent who had to stay here because of my obligations, I would have been abroad like my sister. But being back here I feel like this is my purpose and I feel that it has worked out for the best,” she said. Jean boasts that she is very in tune with the environment and is well versed in reading the weather and the signs of the plants and overall being in tune with nature. “I am very grateful to have been taught these original ways by my grandparents,” she said. The couple is also aware that they must pass the mantle on to the younger generation to continue the culture work that they have started and said that there are individual members of the group who they believe have the potential of being future culture leaders and will work with them as they get older. Come September, which is also designated Amerindian Heritage Month in Guyana, the Surama Culture Group will launch a musical DVD of their songs and dances. This project will be the very first recording of their work and will help to ensure that there is permanency in the culture of the Makushi people in Guyana.
Jean Allicock (centre) and Glendon Allicock (third from right) and members of the Surama Culture Group in their traditional wear.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
WIMBLEDON ROUND-UP
Murray progresses; women’s class blown open
DOMINIC Thiem became the highest men’s seed to be eliminated from Wimbledon, but Andy Murray and Milos Raonic marched on. Andy Murray and Milos Raonic cruised through to the third round of Wimbledon, but Dominic Thiem became the highest men’s seed to exit the competition on Thursday.
Andy Murray Murray beat Lu Yen-hsun in the second round before going on to win the 2013 Wimbledon, and he eased to a 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 victory at the same stage, as he bids to regain the crown this year. Sixth seed Raonic served up 25 aces as he blitzed Andrea Seppi 7-6(7-5), 6-4, 6-2 to move into the third round, while fifth seed Kei Nishikori dropped the first set against Julien Benneteau but recovered to complete a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 win. Eighth seed Thiem was beaten 7-6(7-4), 7-6(7-5), 7-6(73) by Jiri Vesely. Sam Querrey will meet Novak Djokovic in the third round after overcoming Thomaz Bellucci 6-4, 6-3, 6-2. Murray’s routine win over Lu will see him take on Australia’s John Millman next, while Raonic will face 27th seed Jack Sock after powering past Andreas Seppi. Nishikori will meet Andrey Kuznetsov after the Russian beat Gilles Muller in straight sets, but 11th seed David Ferrer was unable to book a thirdround place as he lost 6-1, 6-4, 6-3 to Nicolas Mahut. After dispatching Marcus Willis in straight sets on Wednesday, Roger Federer will face another Brit in the third round after Daniel Evans overwhelmed Alexandr Dolgopolov 7-6(8-6), 6-4, 6-1. After three days and more than four hours of action, Matthew Barton finally emerged from his marathon first-round match with Albano Olivetti victorious. The 24-year-old Australian fell to the ground when the 6-7(7-9), 7-6(7-5), 6-3, 6-7(57), 14-12 victory was secured, and with it his first triumph at a grand slam. Barton’s win sets up a second-round match against John Isner and guarantees him at least a £50 000 pay-out, more than doubling his earnings so far in 2016. Meanwhile the bottom half of the Wimbledon draw has been blown open by Garbine Muguruza’s second-round exit. Garbine Muguruza suffered a surprise exit from Wimbledon at the second round on Thursday, but Agnieszka Radwanska, Angelique Kerber, Simona Halep and Venus Williams all made it through.
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DCC to induct new patron
THE President and Executive of the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) elects a new Patron following the passing of former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Aubrey Bishop. The Investiture Ceremony of its new Patron will take place on July 3 at the Club’s Pavilion, Lance Gibbs & New Garden Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown . The club will also use the occasion for its Annual Awards Ceremony to honour those junior players who excelled both in Cricket and Academics in 2015-2016. All members are invited. The Club will be recognising and presenting Awards to a number of its players who have been selected to represent Guyana at Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 levels of the 2016 Regional Cricket Competitions. These junior players in-
clude Kemo Paul and Tevin Imlach, both products of the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) who made us and the Region proud at the recently held ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup Tournament in Bangladesh. Also featuring in the proceedings will be our cadre of promising players who displayed tremendous potential and whom we wish to encourage. This event will also commemorate the induction of distinguished Members/ Parents. A cocktail reception will follow. The Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) also invites all players and parents to a special meeting on today, Friday July 1, 2016 at 17:00hrs to discuss plans for the new Cricketing Programme/Calendar and the upcoming Annual Summer Camp 2016. This meeting will be held at the Club’s pavilion.
WICB Women’s 50-Over, T20 tournaments confirmed for Guyana
THE West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Women’s 50Over and T20 Regional tournaments have been confirmed to be played in Guyana from July 7 to July 25. This publication understands that the 50-Over segment will be contested first. However, the final fixture is yet to be decided upon, since according to Territorial Development Officer (TDO) of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Colin Stuart, the current inclement weather is posing some difficulties regarding the readiness of the identified venues. “The GCB is currently looking at various venues countrywide, since most of the grounds are not in good shape due to the current weather. However, there are other al-
Colin Stuart ternatives being put in place to ensure that these grounds are fully ready to facilitate Regional games,” Stuart said. The former West Indies fast bowler said there are also special focuses on the pitches to ensure all are durable for the matches. Barbados are the defending champions in the 50-Over segment after they crushed Jamaica by 124 runs.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Friday July 01, 2016) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: 34 games 4 games
Today’s Quiz: When will the first game in Hero CPL 2016 be played at the Kensington Oval, Barbados? Which state the Patriots represent? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 1, 2016
Pay disparity, structure of cricket major issues in FICA survey By Firdose Moonda
LESS bilateral cricket, more context and an acceptance of T20s as a major part of the game’s future were the three major takeaways from international players’ body FICA’s 2016 review. In a 42-page document compiled from surveys, players revealed that their biggest concern is the conflict in schedule and difference in remuneration between international cricket and domestic T20 leagues. They have called for “rebalancing” of the structures to reflect modern realities. The cricketers interviewed - who exclude those from India, Pakistan and Zimbabwe, who do not have player associations - recognised that while international bilateral cricket remains the major source of the game’s revenue, it is “rapidly losing its attractiveness”. In order to remain valuable, players have advocated ways to improve the game by centralising global competitions in all three formats while creating distinct windows for domestic T20 cricket. Players want less Tests and “significantly” less ODI cricket overall, but more international T20Is. They want to keep the longest
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Players participating in the FICA survey want distinct windows for domestic T20 cricket leagues that offer them higher salaries with a lower time commitment. format concentrated in coun- cricket which has become retirement. FICA would tries “where the market and a “a poor sporting product” like to see a situation where strong four-day structure ex- that “delivers limited context that conflict does not exist ists” and confine ODI cricket and narrative beyond results for any player and believe to a league culminating in against rivals and bench- building some form of free a global event, such as the marking against history”, and agency into national conWorld Cup, and removing all is not “part of an easy-to-un- tracts will aid that. However, FICA warned other bilateral fixtures. They derstand clear competitive also want T20 cricket to be structure”. The current rank- that as lucrative as T20 played in a league format ings are regarded as so con- cricket is for players it with a headline event, similar fusing that 72% of the players cannot prop up the whole to the qualification process interviewed admitted to not game. Most countries rely on bilateral international for the 2017 Champions understanding them. Players believe leagues cricket and the ICC for Trophy. This more condensed will also unclutter the cricket- their income, while domesstructure will, according to ing calendar which currently tic cricket provides limitFICA, preserve the value and makes them feel “forced” ed financial contributions. generate interest in bilateral into choosing between for- That means that in the mats and testing their loyalty short to medium-term doto their countries “like never mestic T20 cricket “does before”. The current time: not appear to be a viable wage ratio of international alternative to support the cricket is seen as skewed - it entire economy of the global demands a high time com- game”. That could change Sandown mitment versus low salary in the long-term but as 09:20 hrs Ladweb income. The opposite is true things stand, domestic T20 09:50 mhrs The Last Lion for domestic T20 cricket leagues have to exist along10:25 hrs Arborist contracts, which offer low side international cricket. 11:00 hrs Ayrad FICA would also like to time commitment but higher 11:30 hrs Altarsheed salaries. As a result, many see T20 cricket used as the 12:05 hrs Jacob Cats players consider leaving the vehicle to grow the game, a international game for T20s process it believes has stagHaydock because that enables them to nated because “there is no 13:30 hrs Hit The Lights documented clarity ... or via“optimise” earnings. 14:00 hrs Sidewinder Players from so-called ble pathway for Associate na14:30 hrs Pure Fantasy less wealthy countries are tions to enter into the current 15:00 hrs Londinium more at risk than those bilateral cricket framework”. 15:30 hrs Ice Slice from countries that pay It is in favour of considering 16:00 hrs La Celebs Ville better, and the disparity in cricket for inclusion as an wages is also a concern for Olympic sport and revisiting Irish Racing Tips FICA. For example, players the number of teams that will Bellewstown from England and Austra- compete in the World T20 12:00 hrs Boyfriend lia earn almost four times and World Cup. Brian The body would also more than players from 12:35 hrs Secret Wizard West Indies, Sri Lanka and like to see the role of the 13:05 hrs Strait Of New Zealand, and almost Champions Trophy reZanzibar thrice as much as players viewed and wants greater 14:05 hrs Busy Bush from South Africa. This consistency applied to the 14:35 hrs Botanical Lady makes it more likely that use of technology, changes 15:05 hrs Easy Pass a player from one of the to playing conditions, the lesser-earning countries will idea of day-night cricket 15:35 hrs Lusis Naturea consider early international and other innovations.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Euro 2016
Portugal advance after penalty shootout (BBC)- Portugal reached the semi-finals of the European Championship for the fourth time in five tournaments with a penalty shootout victory over Poland. Ricardo Quaresma scored the winning spot-kick after Jakub Blaszczykowski’s effort was saved by Rui Patricio. Robert Lewandowski had fired Poland ahead in the second minute with teenager Renato Sanches equalising via a deflected strike. Portugal’s semi-final opponent will be either Wales or Belgium. Remarkably, Portugal have reached the last four without winning a game in normal time following three draws in a group in
Christiano Ronoldo celebrates with Ricardo Quaresma who scored the winning penalty for Portugal
Zlatan could answer United’s prayers (SPORTSMAX) - Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be the influential signing to revive Manchester United’s flagging fortunes. The expected marquee signing of Zlatan Ibrahimovic to complement ruthless manager Jose Mourinho will be the latest statement of intent from a Manchester United hierarchy desperate to preserve the club’s endangered standing as a commercial and competitive powerhouse. Due to turn 35 in October, Ibrahimovic, when he passes a medical and puts pen to paper, is unlikely to have the impact of Eric Cantona, the maverick who joined as a 26-year-old and propelled the team to their first Premier League title,
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
setting the club on the path to two decades of domestic dominance. But the parallels are unmistakable. The charismatic forward, who retired from international football after Sweden’s group-stage exit from Euro 2016 last week, remains a box-office draw not seen at Old Trafford since Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure for Real
Madrid in 2009. Others with the potential to single-handedly win matches and sell shirts - Dimitar Berbatov, Angel Di Maria, Radamel Falcao - have failed, on and off the pitch, to underpin United’s commercial and sporting juggernaut. Of the other candidates, Carlos Tevez and, criminally, Paul Pogba were allowed to leave, while familiarity has bred contempt for the United faithful - and potential converts in developing markets - as far as Ronaldo contemporary and Alex Ferguson survivor Wayne Rooney are concerned. Robin van Persie temporarily served the purpose, but the Dutchman, whose appeal had as much to do with his defec-
tion from Arsenal as any real star quality, was never in the requisite stratosphere of fame to make the required impact. With those failures in mind, the appointment of Mourinho and impending capture of Ibrahimovic represents the culmination of United’s transformation from the shoe-string conservatism practised late in Ferguson’s tenure, a consequence initially of restrictions imposed by the Glazer family’s early ownership model and then sustained by the prudence of the Scot in his managerial dotage, to largesse worthy of continental financial powerhouses Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid.
exited Euro 2016 at the last-16 stage. Del Bosque had previously stated he would not continue in his role after the tournament in France. “Without a doubt, I have no intention to remain as coach, but you have to be discreet. No matter what the result of the Euros, I had no doubt about what my future would be,” he told RNE. Having taken over from Luis Aragones following Spain’s victory at Euro 2008, Del Bosque led his country to World Cup glory in South Africa in 2010.
The successful run under the former Real Madrid coach continued a t E u ro 2 0 1 2 , a s t h e y retained their crown by crushing Italy 4-0 in the final in Kiev. However, their hopes of retaining the World Cup came to a painful end in Brazil two years later. A stunning 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands was followed by a 2-0 loss against Chile, as Spain failed to even make it out of their group. Spain did qualify for the knockout stages at Euro 2016, only to lose 2-0 to Italy in Paris on Monday.
Del Bosque resigns as Spain coach
(SPORTSMAX) Spanish Football Federation looks set to begin the search for a new head coach as Vicente del Bosque is poised to end his eight-year reign. Vicente del Bosque is set to resign from his position as head coach of Spain. Following discussions with Spanish Football Federation chief Angel Maria Villar, the 65-year-old confirmed the end of his eightyear reign in an interview on Spanish public radio on Thursday. The decision comes after the national team
Vicente del Bosque announced today that he is set to resign from his position as head coach of Spain.
which they finished third and an extra-time win over Croatia in the last 16. No side has ever got this far in a European Championship without winning a match inside 90 minutes. Portugal have also only led a match for 22 minutes
during the whole tournament, while Poland have not trailed for a single minute of normal time. However, for a second dour and conservative knockout game running, Fernando Santos’ side did what was required when it mattered. How the penalty shootout was won Neither goalkeeper came close to saving the first three penalties from either side. Cristiano Ronaldo, Sanches and Joao Moutinho all scored excellent penalties for Portugal, with Lewandowski, Arkadiusz Milik and Kamil Glik following suit for Poland. However, after Nani had put Portugal 4-3 ahead, Patricio dived full length to his left to palm away Blaszczykowski’s effort with one hand. Lukasz Fabianski got his fingertips to Quaresma’s decisive effort but could not prevent it finding the roof of the net.
Wales face tough Belgium
WALES’ Euro 2016 quarter-final against Belgium on Friday is their biggest match since the 1958 World Cup, according to manager Chris Coleman. Wales have not reached a major finals since they were beaten by Brazil in the last eight 58 years ago. Ranked 26th in the world, Coleman’s team take on a side 24 places above them - with a semi-final in Lyon on 6 July the reward for the winner. “We know what’s at stake - it’s a fantastic pressure to have,” he said. “Since that 1958 quarter-final, we have to put this down as the biggest game our country’s ever been involved in. “People have already said: ‘Wales can’t lose, they weren’t meant to get to the quarter-final, they’re the underdogs.’ This definitely isn’t the way we see it.” Wales are in the habit of defying the odds as a team whose unity - and sprinkling of star quality in the form of Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale and Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey - compensates for a squad lacking the strength in depth of their illustrious opponents. Belgium, who were in the same qualifying group as Wales, lost their opening game 2-0 against Italy but have won their three matches since and have several Premier League players in their squad, including Chelsea winger Eden Hazard, Manchester City forward Kevin de Bruyne and Everton striker Romelu Lukaku. “I’m not going to play the occasion down,” added Coleman, whose team lost to England before going on to win Group B and then defeating Northern Ireland in the last 16. “I’m going to enjoy it and savour it - but we’ll only enjoy it when we perform. “I don’t need to ham this game up. We are where we are, it is what it is, we’ve earned it.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 1, 2016
Charles, Watson deliver CPL opening win for Zouks (ESPNCricinfo) - Johnson Charles scored a 38-ball 52 to lay the foundation for St Lucia Zouks’ chase of 163, before David Miller finished the job with an unbeaten 33 off 20 to seal a six-wicket victory for the visitors in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) opener in Port of Spain. That Zouks were not chasing more was in large
part thanks to Shane Watson who combined economy with timely wickets to stifle Trinbago Knight Riders’ innings at crucial junctures. Introduced in the last over of the Powerplay, Watson dismissed Colin Munro off his third ball, before snaring Umar Akmal and Kevon Cooper in the closing overs. Though Darren Bravo’s two sixes off his last two balls some-
what spoilt his figures, he had by then helped to keep Knight Riders down to a total that Zouks ultimately chased down with five balls to spare. Knight Riders got off to an underwhelming start as their power-packed top three - Brendon McCullum, Hashim Amla and Munro were dismissed for sluggish starts to leave the home side 58 for 3 after nine overs.
Darren Bravo then combined with Akmal to consolidate with a stand of 66 off 50. That stand was brought to an end when Akmal mistimed a Watson bouncer to offer an easy caught-and-bowled chance. After Watson closed out a tight 18th over, Darren Bravo went on the attack in the last two, hitting Morne Morkel for a four and a six in the 19th,
before hitting consecutive sixes off Watson to close out the innings with a flourish. In pursuit of 163, Charles got Zouks off to a strong start, stroking six fours and a six in his knock of 52. He fell in the 12th over, when a mistimed attempt at a reverse-sweep off Sunil Narine was caught by McCullum. By that stage, though, Zouks had raced to 93 for the loss of two
wickets. Narine pulled the game back in the middle overs with a stingy spell of 2 for 25, leaving Zouks with 39 to score off the last four. But Miller then tore into medium pace bowler Ronsford Beaton in the 17th over, with two fours and a six off consecutive deliveries. Zouks ultimately eased past the target with five balls to spare.
CFU U-17 Tournament Trials CFU 2016 Scotiabank Caribbean Men’s C/ships ... recommence Saturday Guyana to face Jamaica, Suriname in third round ... Inclement weather is a controlling factor
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) shortlisted 40 Under-17 players last Saturday from its initial trials in preparation for this year’s Caribbean Football Union’s Men’s Under-17 Tournament in mid-July 2016. The session is scheduled for the Guyana Defence Force ground, Camp Ayanganna at 13:00hrs with the alternative venue being the National Track and Field Facility, Leonora. The shortlist also includes six players from the Bartica Football Association (BFA), who were unavoidably absent at the session last weekend. Last weekend saw 72 players participate in the trials but inclement weather forced the abandonment of the GFF Technical Development Officer Lyndon France’s session. The national squad will consist of 26 players and will be finalised on the day of the
trials with encampment set to begin on the same day. Members of the technical squad include Carlos Bernard (manager), Vurlon Mills (assistant coach), Andrew Hazel (goalkeeper coach) and Pablino Cupideo (physiotherapist). The tournament will commence in the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Guyana team is scheduled to depart Guyana on July 13, 2016. Guyana have been placed in Group Four with USVI, Jamaica and Antigua & Barbuda.Their first game will be against Jamaica on July 15, 2016 at the Lionel Roberts Stadium, USVI at 14:30hrs. The second and third matches in the round will be played on July 17 against USVI commencing at 17:00hrs and then July 19 against Antigua & Barbuda from 14:30hrs. The tournament will conclude on September 25 in Trinidad & Tobago.
GUYANA will face Jamaica on October 5 as matches in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) 2016 Scotiabank Caribbean Men’s Cup Championship enter its third round. Guyana, who are in Group Three, are scheduled to face Jamaica at a venue to be announced and Suriname on October 8 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. According to a Guyana Football Federation release, Guyana finished the second round of the tournament as first runners-up in the Group after being defeated by Curacao 0-7, but triumphing against the United States Virgin Islands 7-0 in Curacao and St Thomas, USVI re-
Guyana’s Golden Jaguars spectively. The third round commences on October 5 and in addition to the Guyana match, the other matches to be played on that day are: Haiti vs French Guiana at the Stade Sylvio Cator Stadium (Haiti); Curacao vs Antigua and Barbuda at Ergilio Hato Stadium (Curacao) and Trinidad
Increased prize money for Guyana Cup 2016 horserace meet
ORGANISERS of the Guyana Cup 2016 have announced an increase to the proposed cash prizes for three of the eight races in the meet, billed for August 14 at the Port Mourant Turf Club The event is being organised by the Jumbo Jet Establishment, in collaboration with the Port Mourant Turf Club, of Corentyne, Berbice, with both bodies agreeing to increase the prize money. According to the organisers, the winner of the `A’
Class and Lower 1600m event will now collect $4.5M instead of the initial $4M and increase of $500 000. The winner of the co-feature race over 1600m - and which is open to three-year-old Guyana and West Indies-bred horses will now receive $2.4M, an increase of $400 000, while the winner of the two-yearolds 1000-metre race for West Indies-bred horses will now earn $1.2M and not $1M as was initially announced.
There will also be a 1300m race for E’ Class and Lower horses with the winner drawing down $1M while A 1300m race will be staged for horses classified `G’ and Lower and the winner earning $700 000. Horses classified `H’ and Lower will do battle over 1400m with the winner taking home $500 000. In an 1100m race, open to horses classified `J &K’ and Lower, will see the winner earn $350 000. Horses classified `L’ will
contest a 1000m race and the winner will receive $250 000. Trophies and other incentives will be at stake for the top jockey and runner-up; the top stable and the champion trainer. Apart from the cash prizes for the winner of each event, trophies and cash prizes are also on offer for the other top finishers of each event. The day’s activity will be conducted under the Rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority.
and Tobago vs Dominican Republic at a venue to be announced. Fifth place playoff will be held from November 7
to 15 and the final round in May 2017. The top three teams of this tournament will qualify for the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Digicel kicks off senior Squash Championships
THE Guyana Squash Association (GSA) in collaboration with its corporate sponsor Digicel on Wednesday evening kicked off its 2016 Digicel Senior National Squash Championships at the Georgetown Club Inc. courts. Play opened on Day 1 with three matches in the Veterans category. Javed Alli easily defeated Douglas De Groot 11-2, 11-7, 11-0 while Joe Mekdeci had a comfortable victory in his matchup with Robin Low, winning 11-1, 11-3, 11-4. In the final contest of the evening Garfield Wiltshire beat Medhi Ramdhani 11-4, 12-10, 11-6. Meanwhile last evening’s matches featured the roundof-16 for the men and quarter-final matches for the women. In action will be several of the country’s leading squash players including No.1 seed Alex Arjoon, defending champion Nyron Joseph, Jason Ray Khalil, Kristian Jeffrey, Regan Pollard, Ben Mekdeci and Raphael De Groot in the men’s division. On the distaff end, No.1 seed Ashley Khalil, Akeila Wiltshire, Larissa Wiltshire, Taylor Fernandes and Victoria Arjoon will comprise the women’s division. Matches commence at 18:00hrs daily with the finals set for Sunday July 3 from 11:00hrs
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 1, 2016
Old Fort A, Pitbulls round out wins in LUCOZADE’s Hockey League
LUCOZADE’S Hockey Tournament continued on Tuesday with a pair of thrilling inter-club bouts at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue. In the first game, Old Fort ‘A’ versus Old Fort ‘B’, some spectators called it a clash of sheer skills. Two minutes into play Jael Gaskin of the B team scored a stunning field goal (FG), but that just seemed to rile up the A team, as Jason De Santos scored the equalising penalty corner (PC) just five minutes later, before Dwight Sullivan gave the ‘A’ team a 3-1 lead with two FGs in the 18th and 20th minutes respectively. However, the second half proved to be more exciting as both teams made many attempts to add to their final tally. Old Fort ‘B’ team’s Dehron Wilkinson scored a FG in the 22nd minute, but
Bounty GCC’s Daniel Hooper takes on Old Fort Omar Hopkinson.
that was quickly answered by Askofu Simon (Old Fort ‘A’) with one of his own one minute later. Three minutes after, John Abrams of the ‘B’ team made a successful PC but it was then that Old Fort ‘A’ unleashed their relentless skills. Dwight Sullivan (2 FGs), Aderemi Simon (1 FG) and Jason Clarke (1 FG) all sealed their team’s victory bringing the ultimate score to 8-3. The second inter-club match happened between Bounty’s GCC and the GCC Pitbulls with the later winning 6-4. The first half featured a goal each for both sides as Bounty GCC’s Kevin Spencer scored a 14th minute PC and Mark Sergeant of the Pitbulls scored a 16th minute FG as both teams looked to break the dead-
lock but failed. The last half was much more productive though, as Spencer started the scoring again for the Bounty side with a 26th minute PC, but this time Mark’s brother Meshach Sargeant again levelled it with a FG of his own. Kareem McKenzie and Michael Craig of the Bounty squad added two more FGs before Keon McKenzie of the Pitbulls edged in a FG for his team. At this point a win seemed likely for either side but Steven Xavier of Bounty’s GCC stole that hope for the Pitbulls with a FG and a PC just three minutes before the buzzer sounded. Meshach Sargeant tried valiantly to even the odds but managed only to squeeze in one FG in the 39th minute. The action continues this Friday at the National Gymnasium at 17:00hrs.
Digicel National Schools Football Championships
MANHANDLED!
... GTI humble St John’s College 4-0 ST John’s College were unable to overcome the challenges of the Government Technical Institute (GTI) yesterday as the Digicel
National Schools Football Championships continued. Playing at the Guyana Defence Force Camp Ayanganna, the Woolford Ave-
nue-based side triumphed with their 4-0 drubbing of St John’s College. Donte Yonnick in the 18th minute opened the
scoring for the GTI side before the second goal came in the 29th after a successful shot from Emanuel Thomas.
Tafari Simon hammered the third nail in the coffin a minute later with the half ending 3-0 in favour of GTI. In the second half of the game, Kevin James’ goal was the only goal scored, and it was for the GTI side. Over at Tucville, it was a walkover as the Charlestown side could not find enough players and therefore gifted
GTI’s Kevin James makes it 4-0 for his side. (Samuel Maughn photo)
Sir Leon a pass to the next round. Today’s matches will see Stewartville take on Windsor Forest at Leonora, Tutorial face Tagore at Skeldon, Bartica Secondary play Three Mile Secondary at Bartica, and New Campbellville and Lodge Secondary clash at the GFC ground. (Stephan Sookram)
Digicel National Schools Football Championships
MANHANDLED!
Charles, Watson deliver CPL opening win for Zouks (See Story on page 30)
(See Story on page 31) St Johns keeper managed to keep this shot out of his nets. However the game still ended Johnson Charles’ 52 set up St Lucia Zouks’ 4-0 in favour of GTI (Samuel Maughn Photo) chase, Trinbago Knight Riders v St Lucia Zouks, CPL 2016, Port of Spain, June 29, 2016. (Sportsfile via Getty Images)
Old Fort A, Pitbulls round out wins in LUCOZADE’s Hockey League
WICB Women’s 50-Over, T20 tournaments confirmed for Guyana (See Story on page 28)
Bounty GCC’s Daniel Hooper, tries to take in Hikers Shane Samuels and Robert
(See Story on page 31)
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Guyana to face Jamaica, Suriname in CFU third round (See Story on page 30)
FRIDAY, JULY 1, 2016