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Serious crimes down 16% TUESDAY JUNE 7, 2016

No. 104575

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- Police report 7% reduction in murder, 10 % reduction in gun robberies, 14% reduction in rape

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Lights up 73 streetlights installed at Diamond Page

A beautiful sight! Streetlights installed along the Diamond Access Road, East Bank Demerara. Works have also begun to extend the lighting project to the community of Mocha (Delano Williams photo)

Miner Few requests killed from Ramson - in drunken brawl with cousin

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- operates from home without staff

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3 Noticeable gaps in Cultural Heritage Policy Page

- Dr Roopnaraine tells heritage confab

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

GPA mourns passing PSC condemns of KN reporter grenade attack on KN THE PRIVATE Sector Commission has strongly condemned the attack on Kaieteur News on Saturday evening, in which a live grenade was placed near the vehicle of its publisher, Glen Lall. “If this is a heinous attempt to muzzle the media, such actions have no place in our democratic society and we urge the Guyana Police Force to expedite their investigation so as to bring the perpetrators to justice in the shortest possible time,” the PSC said in a statement. The body assured that it stands with Kaieteur News and the rest of the media fraternity on this issue “and wish to assure you all that our thoughts are with you.” On Sunday government also condemned the act, describing it as an “attempted act of terrorism”. In a strongly worded statement the coalition Government said it is alarmed by the act of domestic terrorism which was attempted and sought to reiterate its stance in relation to press Kaieteur News’ freedom in Guyana: Publisher Glenn Lall “The coalition Government stands resolutely in defence of press freedom in Guyana, and condemns in the strongest possible manner this heinous and dastardly act of cowardice against Kaieteur News.” The grenade, discovered by staff of the newspaper did not explode, although it was later discovered that the pin had been removed. Police were subsequently summoned, and the street was cordoned off for an investigation.

The Guyana Press Association said it is saddened by the untimely passing of journalist Dale Andrews. He was 47. Andrews died on Saturday following a brief period of illness. In its statement the media body said Andrews started his journalistic career at the then Guyana Broadcasting Corporation in the early 1990s and in 2001 joined Kaieteur News, where he served as an Editor until his death. “Andrews would be remembered for his dedication to the profession and his colleagues have noted his deep and enduring passion for news,” the GPA said. Adam Harris, Editor-in-chief of Kaieteur News recalled that Andrews covered many stories over his tenure, notably the 2002 Camp Street jailbreak and countless stories that touched on crime and security and social issues. President of the Guyana Press Association, Neil Marks, pointed out that Andrews “treated every story with the same amount of excitement and dedication as if it were his biggest Dale Andrews story ever”. Andrews would also be remembered for his willingness to guide young reporters, giving advice whenever needed. “GPA offers its sincerest condolences to Andrews’ immediate family, friends and colleagues,” the statement ended.

73 streetlights installed along Diamond Access Road

THE MINISTRY of Public Infrastructure (MPI) has delivered on its promise to install streetlights along the Diamond Access Road, East Bank Demerara and works have already begun to extend the lighting project to the community of Mocha. In mid-April, the Ministry announced that 100 streetlights will be installed along the access roads of Mocha and Diamond on the East Bank. According to a release from the Ministry, while the initial plan had been to install 50 new streetlights in each community, this figure was increased and instead 73 streetlights were recently installed in Diamond after two weeks of works.

At least 50 streetlights are slated for Mocha and works have begun and are expected to be completed in two weeks. The installation works in Diamond saw MPI officials using existing poles to facilitate the new lights. A similar approach will be taken in Mocha, but officials are also seeking to install new posts to close the gap between streetlights. According to the release, it is expected that the newly installed streetlights will heighten security in these areas, as well as reduce the likelihood of road accidents. The Ministry also plans to move its lighting project to the Corentyne Coast, following the completion of the project in Mocha.

The new lights illuminating the Diamond Access Road

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Noticeable gaps in Cultural Heritage Policy - Dr. Roopnaraine tells Georgetown Heritage Conference

By Svetlana Marshall THE mechanism used for identifying and preserving Guyana’s built heritage is far from ideal, Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnaraine told the opening ceremony of the Georgetown Heritage Conference. Though he acknowledged the tremendous contributions being made by the National Trust of Guyana, the Education Minister said there are clear gaps in the country’s Cultural Heritage Policy. “I have to acknowledge that the state mechanisms for identifying and preserving our built heritage in particular have been far from ideal over the years. The absence of protocol to preserve an inherently fire-prone heritage site, and inaction as the most historic building in our capital city deteriorates both reflect the sort of gaps in Cultural Heritage Policy that should not exist,” he told those present. In the absence of armed conflict, Minister Roopnaraine said, there is no excuse for the lack of comprehensive systems for the preservation of both tangible and intangible heritage -– “the true wealth of this country.” Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo; Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry; US Ambassador Perry Holloway, and Chief Executive Officer of the National Trust of Guyana, Nirvana Persaud, among others, were in attendance at this opening ceremony. Just before declaring the conference open, Prime Minister Nagamootoo underscored the importance of having Georgetown restored to its former glory. “Our Government basks in the expectation that one day Georgetown would be counted among the heritage capitals of the world. It must be restored to its pristine beauty building by building, block by block, and must lead the way in being transformed into a green and clean capital,” the Prime Minister said. He said Guyanese must resist the easy temptation to tear down the country’s heritage. “We must restore our pride in who we are, what we have built, and showcase our achievements,” Prime Minister Nagamootoo emphasised. He expressed appreciation to the World Monuments Fund for including City Hall on its 2014 World Monuments Watch List, which calls international attention to at-risk cultural heritage sites around the globe.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo delivers a passionate presentation on preserving the country’s heritage at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine addresses the Georgetown International Heritage Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

PROUD HERITAGE “This was the first time a site in Guyana was included on the Watch, to garner local and international attention and support to help preserve this remarkable architectural building. Beyond our national borders, we consider the world as our home. “We have a proud heritage, and the Watch List of the World Monuments Fund reflects our common interest in promoting a global heritage sector and to preserve the architectural genius of humanity,” the Prime Minister posited. Understanding the importance of conservation, the Government has committed to the release of another one million acres of forest to Iwokrama. The Prime Minister said the country would release more if need be, to supplement ‘the green lungs’ that will create a new heritage for all humanity. “While we must renovate our ancient buildings, we must also open new parks, green parks, and playfields for our children; for our elderly to breathe fresh air and to live out their lives in leisure. We must lend personality to our lanes and roadways. We must move away from dependence on fossil fuel and provide our roads, buildings and offices with green alternative energy. This is the new heritage that we must be-

queath to the future generations.” Understanding the need to further preserve the country’s heritage, Government said it stands prepare to work with the National Trust and the World Monuments Fund to build awareness on the importance of protecting and preserving the country’s monuments and heritage in general. “We hope to revitalise the scope of work to be undertaken by the National Trust, and to ensure that it reaches out to the newly-elected town and district councils to take responsibility in their respective areas for heritage resources,” he said. The National Trust has won the International Green Apple Award for the Built Environment and Architectural Heritage 2016 from The Green Organisation in the UK. This award comes three years after it copped the Caribbean Heritage Protection Award. The Georgetown International Heritage Conference was organised by the National Trust of Guyana in collaboration with the Ministry of Education’s Department of Culture, Youth and Sport and the World Monuments Fund. Launched on Monday, the conference will continue today at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, and conclude on Wednesday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 7, 2016

Miner stabbed to death by cousin

A 26-YEAR-OLD resident of Cambelltown, Mahdia, Region Eight was on Monday stabbed to death by his cousin after they got into a heated argument while drinking at a bar there. The incident reportedly occurred around 04:00 hrs. “They dey all de drinking and he and he cousin start cuss out one another about each other mother. These boys are two sisters’ children and the argument got very heated,” an eyewitness told the Guyana Chronicle. The eyewitness, who hailed from the same Amerindian community and requested anonymity, said the incident can divide the families involved and the community as well. “Nobody wan talk because dem ain’t want no

mel decided that he will walk away. He left the bar and was walking when, without warning this guy (cousin) came up behind him and stabbed him to his right side.” The eyewitness added: “The police could have caught this guy had they responded in a very timely manner, but it’s as though because we are living in the bush (Mahdia) everybody thinks that we should be treated anyhow. This isn’t right as you can see the very short distance of the police station from here.” Several other residents echoed similar sentiments. After committing the act, the alleged assailant reportedly got into a bus that

Josepha Alfred, the mother of the dead man problems as this is a tense situation,” the eyewitness said. The suspect and the victim reportedly lived a few houses apart. Residents, while expressing sadness over the situation, were reluctant to publicly speak on the

matter, but they called on the authorities to clamp down on drug and alcohol abuse in the community. According to reports, the alleged murderer reportedly came out of the backdam the day before with several of his co-workers. The eyewitness said the victim and the murderer, along with others, were drinking when a heated argument started. “They were arguing and busing really bad when Ro-

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was heading out of Mahdia and has not been seen since. Residents believe that the suspect might be hiding out in one of the camps as he knows the interior terrain well. Romel was the fifth of six children and used to live with his mother Josepha Alfred, 53. When this newspaper visited, his mother was in a state of shock. She related that she has been hearing different versions of the incident that led to the stabbing. “I am too weak to even know what happened as I am hurting badly,” the woman said. Alfred related that her son “was a good child and to loose he like this ain’t easy” as she wept.

Village Toshao Ivan Pio said he is very disappointed about what happened, noting that the killing was a senseless act. “This is a case of yet another life being stuffed out senselessly. It’s time that the youths realise that drinking and smoking will only make their lives more complicated and challenging. I continue to speak to them as the toshao but unfortunately it’s as though they are not listening as every day several young men can be seen drinking all day, thus resulting in increased social problems,” he said. Police are investigating the murder.

year term in office. Preliminary results show that the UWP won 11 of the 17 seats at stake, reversing the results of the 2011 general election, when the SLP won by the same margin. Last night, hotelier Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, who is

also chairman of the Jamaica Observer, congratulated UWP leader Chastanet on the party’s victory. “Allen Chastanet worked at Air Jamaica for 10 years. He did a fine job and will make a fine Prime Minister,” said Stewart. (Jamaica Observer)

Opposition wins St Lucia general election THE main Opposition United Workers Party (UWP) led by Allen Chastanet has won Monday’s general election denying Prime Minister, Dr Kenny Anthony an opportunity of leading his St Lucia Labour Party (SLP) to a second consecutive five-

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Serious crimes down 16%

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

--Police report 7% reduction in murder, 10% reduction in gun robberies, 14% reduction in rape

de-escalate the crime situation. “The police are increasingly gaining the public’s trust, resulting in a higher level of information-sharing and the solving and prevention of serious crimes, inclusive of murder. “Exposure to training both locally and internationally continues to be a top priority at all levels of the Force,” he explained. However, road fatalities continue to increase: “We have recorded 62 fatalities at the end of May this year, which are 14 more than (for) the same period last year. While there was a reduction in serious accidents, there have been, again, increases in minor and damage accidents. “Altogether, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and inattentiveness continue to be the main causes of fatal accidents,” the Superintendent explained. The Guyana Police Force has thus far charged 30,788 persons with traffic offences this year. This includes 11,302 cases of speeding and 839 cases of driving under the influence. “The Guyana Police Force wishes to publicly thank all of its ranks, who have worked to the best of their abilities and in some cases beyond the call of duty during our 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations; and, more particularly, (for) their commitment in realising a reduction in serious crimes,” Superintendent Ramlakhan said.

SERIOUS crimes have been reduced by 16 per cent, but road fatalities continue to rise, according to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in a release issued on Monday. GPF Public Relations Officer Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan said that, as at the end of May, serious crimes had decreased by 16 per cent. He said that murders have been reduced by seven per cent, while gun-related robberies have been reduced by 10 per cent. Additionally, there was a seven per cent reduction in armed robberies where other instruments were used by the perpetrators, and a 26 per cent decrease in robberies where violence has been employed. Robberies with aggravation have been decreased by 14 per cent. The Force has also recorded a 27 per cent decrease in each of the offences: break and enter, and larceny and burglary. A 14 per cent decrease has been recorded in rape; and a 52 per cent decrease has been recorded in larceny from the person. However, incidents of robbery in which guns or other instruments were not used increased by 17 per cent. Ramlakhan said the decrease in the crime rate is no doubt as a result of the initiatives taken by the Government, the Ministry of Public Security, and the Guyana Police Force to

Clinton ‘wins Democratic nomination’ convention this summer,” he said. “Our job from now until the convention is to convince those superdelegates that Bernie is by far the strongest candidate against Donald Trump.” Mrs Clinton, a former

Democratic Party nomination for US President, Hillary Clinton

ILLARY Clinton has clinched the Democratic Party nomination for US President after reaching the required number of delegates, according to AP. The news agency’s tally puts Mrs Clinton on 2,383 the number needed to make her the presumptive nominee. She will become the first female nominee for a major US political party. But rival Bernie Sanders said Mrs Clinton had not won as she was dependent on superdelegates who could not vote until July’s party convention. Mrs Clinton reached the threshold with a big win in Puerto Rico and a burst of last-minute support from superdelegates, AP said. It has taken a long 227 years to get even this far.

George Washington was elected President of a newly independent America in 1789. Forty-four men later (43 of them white) Hillary Clinton makes history by being the first female nominee for the White House. At an appearance in Long Beach, California, shortly after the news broke, she said: “We are on the brink of a historic and unprecedented moment but we still have work to do. “We have six elections tomorrow and we’re gonna fight hard for every single vote, especially right here in California.” Voters will go the polls for Democratic primaries tomorrow in California, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, and New Jersey. Superdelegates, who are party insiders, can pledge

their support for a candidate ahead of the convention but do not formally vote for them until the convention itself. The nominee for either party is not officially named until the parties’ respective conventions. Mr Sanders has vowed to stay in the race until the convention, and his campaign team said the Vermont senator would attempt to win back superdelegates who have pledged their support to Mrs Clinton. His spokesman Michael Briggs said it was too early to call the Democratic contest. “It is unfortunate that the media, in a rush to judgement, are ignoring the Democratic National Committee’s clear statement that it is wrong to count the votes of superdelegates before they actually vote at the

Secretary of State, New York senator and First Lady, leads Mr Sanders by three million votes, 291 pledged delegates and 523 superdelegates, according to AP’s count. She won 29 caucuses and primaries to his 21 victories.

That gives her a significantly greater lead over Mr Sanders than Barack Obama had over her in 2008 -- he led by 131 pledged delegates and 105 superdelegates at the point he clinched the nomination. (BBC)

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial

In action on those audit findings SHORTLY after entering office, the coalition government set about hiring independent auditors at a reported cost of $133M, to look into several agencies, projects and funds, to assess the quality and accountability of the systems inherited. The launching of the audits was in itself a good move by the coalition, but with 30 audits out of the 50 since made public, and a few of them leaked, many believe that the coalition is not holding up to the second part of the audits, which is to act on their discrepancies and charge those fingered in corruption. Work that was hardly executed but overpaid for, movement of large sums without the requisite authority, and loans being made to agencies from semi-autonomous ones are among the numerous improprieties spotted. There seems to be a general sense of unease and anger on the part of coalition supporters at the ever-growing perception that only the small man faces the brunt of the law, while the perpetrators of white-collar crimes go unpunished. The coalition, in its run-up to elections, was often heard saying, “We will jail them”, in reference to suspected corrupt officials; therefore, now that there is actual proof of corruption, the public’s questions regarding the seeming lack of action towards those fingered in acts of corruption, “abuse of power for private gain, and disregard for the law” are valid ones. Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, stated recently that inaction was due partly to the fact that several witnesses who would have provided information for the audits are afraid to openly testify, as Guyana currently does not have a witness protection programme. He further stated that, so far, PPP former Public Service Minister Jennifer Westford has been charged, along with her assistant, and prosecutions have begun in the cases of Aeshwar Deonarine and Carvil Duncan. However, while the fraud case involving Jennifer Westford and her assistant has begun, there has been no further word regarding the trial, which should have commenced on April 18, 2016. Several reasons have been laid out regarding the coalition’s relative lack of action on audit findings. For one, there is the belief that the Government, being conscious of the “witch-hunting” accusations hurled by the Opposition, is reluctant to further alienate the supporters of the Opposition, whom it is trying to sway, as Government realises it entered office on the slimmest of majorities. The question of whether the findings in any of the audits can withstand scrutiny in a court of law has been tabled as one of the reasons for Government’s seeming inaction. However, Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma, has said that the audits into the various agencies,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 7, 2016

Thieves stealing my dreams Dear Editor,

I AM a senior citizen (female) who has served my country with love and pride (school teacher). All my life I have dreamt to personally own a home. At 64 years old, I took a loan from the bank and started building my house. All along, this dream has been coming a reality, until thieves started to steel my doors, windows, and many other items. I reported this matter to the police. They came but were of no help. Sir/Madam, through blood, sweat and tears, I worked along with the contractor and his crew, but now it seems like I have a longer and much rougher road to travel, since this is the fourth time I am experiencing this monstrous situation.

Sir/Madam, this stress has now become extremely unbearable. Apart from losing materials and risking losing my house to the bank, my life is at risk, for I am a senior citizen who has numerous medical conditions. In addition, I have no husband, no children, and even no neighbor; there is only bush and more bush around me. I am desperate! On the northern side of my building there are very tall bushes in two vacant lots. On the southern side, it is vacant, too. On the eastern (that’s in front) it is the rough road and four vacant lots; and on the western, there’s a drain which is full of bushes. There is also a little high dam by which the thieves can have easy access into my yard. I was told they fetched the stolen items by putting

a wood across the drain, and took off in a waiting vehicle. People are seeing acts of theft, but are helpless since there is no telephone line, no street light, and only bushes wherein thieves take refuge. Animals, especially cows and horses, are seen all over the place, destroying yards and vehicles. Sir/madam, I had to put on my own street light, and should you visit me, you would be able to feel how much the surrounding area is haunted. I respectfully suggest that people who are allotted house lots they cannot occupy should let others who are in dire need of them be given a chance to occupy same. And the rough red roads with huge craters look like red water creek when it rains. During the day, you can

see a lot of strange faces presumably ‘checking out’ their victims. It seems as though they speculate during the day and then strike during the night with their awaiting vehicles. It is alleged that they sell stolen articles to those who are building. As such, I suggest that heavier penalties be levied on those buyers. Sir/madam, I call upon the relevant authorities to look into this matter as early as possible. I just wish that, on reading this letter, someone may call me and see how they can help, for I have lost far more than I can afford to deal with the bank. I am desperate. Would somebody please help me? Regards, R. DORIE

Forensic audits point to deep corruption Dear Editor, ONE of the good things that the Granger Administration has done is to order forensic audits of various state institutions and projects. We are now learning, through the press, of the horror stories uncovered by the auditors. In all the audits, the auditors report on wastage costing billions of dollars, corrupt practices, incompetence, poor execution of projects, self-dealing by the so-called managers, and a clear case of no proper accountability for the people’s money. We are left to wonder what the Auditor General of Guyana was doing all this time. It is becoming clear to everyone, if it wasn’t clear before, that there was a gen-

eral free-for-all with taxpayers’ money, and a general and uncontrollable culture of corruption, stealing, wastage and incompetence, which spread like a cancer throughout state agencies, and enveloped and suffocated the state. Guyana could not have made any progress in this environment, and no country in similar circumstances could ever make any progress. The big challenge now is “what is to be done?” The culprits have been clearly identified in many cases. One of them never took leave for 11 years, and collected millions ostensibly for leave pay. The total damage to the economy in dollar terms easily exceeds one hundred billion dollars. Billions have been lost at the Gold Board; billions have also been lost at E-Gov-

projects and funds have indicated that there had been “deliberate, premeditated plans to engage in corruption under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government,” and he cited several cases in which the PPP violated the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act. The evidence, he said, “would support charges in relation to deception, acts of fraud, misfeasance of public office, and political corruption.” While it is known that the prosecution of every wrongdoer would be an uphill battle, some cases of corruption are cloaked in legality, and in other cases, the act might have been just simple malpractice. From media reports, there appear to be several instances in which charges can be made against several persons; and the Government should begin with those, so as to send a strong message and set an example for future governments, the people they govern, and those who oppose them. As we have said before in this column, it is to the Government’s, Opposition’s and everyone’s benefit that actions be executed in a transparent manner, consistent with recommendations; and the feasibility of having a special prosecutor handle the cases, where criminal prosecutions have

ernance, GPL, GuySuCo, Guyoil, GGMC, Public Works projects, Pradoville, and many other places. The cancer spread to every agency, and occupied every nook and cranny of the state. The most recent disclosures of the billions lost in the so-called E-Governance project are particularly disturbing, because they not only highlight the failure of the so-called Technical Advisor, but raise the question of why the Government wants to keep those so-called experts employed and to pay them handsomely, when the evidence as unearthed by the auditors is so convincing. In the case of a particular ‘expert’, his name surfaced in the case of the disaster at Charity Wharf, the bridge at East La Penitence, the overruns at the Venezuelan Hos-

tel, and more. It is believed that he was approving these vouchers because the fatherin-law of the former President’s son was the contractor. If the Granger Government is serious about stamping out corruption, wastage, incompetence and the cavalier attitude towards the spending of taxpayers’ money, the President should move swiftly to weed out from the system all those found to be liable and culpable for all these disasters. Only then can we say that it was worth the while, and the money to conduct these forensic audits was properly spent. Even the sacred crows have to be removed from the system; and the earlier the better. Regards, P. SINGH

been recommended, should be considered. We reiterate that while the sums of money diverted to the audits should not be seen as wasted outside of paying the auditors, it would surely be a waste of money if recommendations are not acted on. Further, where those who have engaged in inappropriate conduct are allowed to walk without being held to account, the floodgate is open for worse to follow. In short, the Government has to be mindful that the audits are not seen as a waste of time for improving the public accounting system, holding persons to account, and making Government responsive to the people’s needs. At the political level, failure to act provides bragging rights to those who had initially said there was no corruption, and had challenged the Government to prove there was. At the societal level, persons’ confidence in the political system — regardless of which side of the political fence they sit -– would be eroded, and they would become disengaged in the processes of governance, which is not good for our system of inclusionary democracy and creating a Government that works for all the people.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Soldiers help sick child GLDA strengthens 1,136 animals against rabies By Sherah Alleyne

IN KEEPING with the motto of the Guyana Defence Force: “SERVICE”, soldiers who recently completed the patrol on the summit of Mount Ayanganna also gave of their service to the villagers in Chinoweng. The soldiers visited the Chinoweng Primary School and detailed their duties and responsibilities to the students. They also explained the importance of service to Guyana, and encouraged the children to serve Guyana. The medic on the patrol, Lance Corporal Shannon Ross-Cox, visited the Chinoweng Health Centre and offered medical assistance and supplies. While preforming duties at the health centre, she met young mother Sunita Piash and her yearold daughter Shania Piash, whom she suspected had pneumonia. After checking vitals of the little girl, Cox discovered that the child was wheezing and it sounded like she had fluid in her lungs. With permission from the officer in command, Colonel Jerrick, the baby and her mother were flown to Georgetown, where the child was admitted at the Georgetown Public Hospital and was treated for pneumonia. The child was later discharged after treatment. Pneumonia is a lung infection which may cause coughing, fever and breathing problems. For most people, pneumonia can be treat-

Lance Corporal Shannon Ross-Cox and Shania Piash, the child she brought to Georgetown for treatment ed at home; it often clears up in two to three weeks, but the elderly, babies, and people with other diseases can become seriously ill. Pneumonia is contracted when persons breathe

in the germs released into the air. Persons may be more likely to get the disease after having a cold or flu; these illnesses make it hard for the lungs to fight infection.

Lance Corporal Shannon Ross-Cox attending to Shania Piash at the Health Centre in Chinoweng

Things affecting teachers Dear Editor, I WOULD like to know when the Ministry of Finance would be paying teachers their Whitley Council emoluments. Teachers like me (and many others), who had their tour of Whitley Council since last year January, have since not been paid, and I am kindly asking those responsible to release the funds to which we are entitled. I was made to understand that Whitley Council is only paid twice yearly (April and

November). However nonsensical that arrangement is -- and the fact that April has passed and nothing was paid -- it is quite a shame that entitled teachers would now have to wait until November of this year to receive this payment. These late payments never happened in the past. Another thing is that we are almost at the halfway mark of 2016, and teachers have not received any uniform allowance or any increases in their emoluments, while the union seems to be

in a never-ending bargain mode with the Government. It is also left to be seen whether we would receive the Debunching money before the school year comes to a close in a few weeks’ time. The other mess facing the teaching fraternity -which has financial implications for our teachers -- is the stalled 2015 promotions’ issue. I am one teacher who was affected. Regards, LEON SUSERAN

THE Animal Production Unit (APU) of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) recently vaccinated a total of 2,047 animals against Botulism and blackleg diseases. This represents a 94.9 per cent increase in animals vaccinated this year, compared to the total vaccinated in the same period last year. Some 1,136 animals were also vaccinated against rabies in 2015. An animal infected by rabies can spread the virus by biting another animal or a person. In rare cases, rabies can be spread when infected saliva gets into an open wound or the mucous membranes of other animals via the mouth or eyes. Over the years, the APU has been instrumental in ensuring the enforcement of proper animal husbandry practices in Guyana. This year, the APU will continue working towards resuscitation of the livestock industry, and will continue being pivotal to its overall development. There was also the im-

plementation of the vampire bat reduction programme. This programme saw 16 clinics being conducted, as focus is now being placed on bat trapping and treatment of bite wounds. With implementation of this initiative, there has been a 77.8 per cent increase in the incidence of reported and recorded vampire bat bite wounds. With more persons coming forward and reporting cases, GLDA’s extension officers have been working tirelessly to ensure that the situation remains under control. The GLDA has also made significant improvements in the testing and eradication of Bovine Tuberculosis (BTB) and Brucellosis. In 2015, a total of 1,139 animals were tested for TB as part of a targeted surveillance activity. This amounted to a 52.7 per cent increase in animals tested over the same period during the former year. Some 844 tests have this year been done for Brucellosis, a highly contagious zoonosis caused by ingestion of unpasteurised milk or

undercooked meat from infected animals, or by coming in close contact with their secretions. The GLDA also embarked on a number of disease identification and control training programmes with various farmers. During this exercise, a total of 415 farmers and extension officers were trained to accurately identify, treat, and further control diseases that could affect the health and safety of animals. Some 12,940 visits were conducted countrywide in 2015, during which the GLDA was able to collect and document a number of activities carried out on farms in relation to animal husbandry. The authority is also actively involved in a number of disease surveillance exercises. The most recent activity involved the authority conducting 708 visits on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) surveillance, where 599 samples were collected for New Castle and HPAI in poultry, and 844 blood samples were collected for Brucellosis.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Rohee mum on Dharamlall’s shooting allegation By Derwayne wills PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) Parliamentarian, Nigel Dharamlall met last week with his party’s General Secretary Clement Rohee to discuss assault allegations against him, but Mr Rohee is mum on what transpired from the discussion. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum confirmed recently that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is in possession of Dharamlall’s case for advice. It is alleged that the PPP Member of Parliament (MP) issued threats to an official of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) last week in Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara. While the PPP General Secretary told this publication some time ago that Dharamlall would face the party’s

PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee Executive Committee, a position confirmed by Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo at his press conference recently, Rohee told reporters that the meeting has not happened. He said it is customary that the “Executive does not meet on the Friday before the Central Committee meeting”. Since there was a Central Committee meeting last Saturday, Rohee said

the Executive Committee’s meeting has been shifted to this Friday. Rohee confirmed to the media at his party’s media briefing on Monday at their Robb Street headquarters that he had met with Dharamlall recently, however, he is waiting for the party’s Executive Committee meeting before he divulges what was discussed in that meeting. “I will report to the Executive what was the nature of the discussions I had with Mr Dharamlall and then the Executive Committee will look at all that has been heard and said on the matter, and then we will pronounce,” the PPP General Secretary stated. Asked whether he was worried about the allegations facing the backbench Parliamentarian from his party, Rohee responded, “No, no, no. I’m not worried about what I heard.”

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Jagdeo at his press conference on Thursday last said that Dharamlall would have to provide “believable explanations” to the party’s Executive body. While Jagdeo, a former President said he will consider the case “carefully” when asked if he would remove Dharamlall from the Parliament, if charged, he said “I am not going to move people just like that because of what I see as allegations… there are many allegations on a daily basis; now it’s time to prove these allegations.” Drs Jennifer Westford and Bheri Ramsarran are currently before the courts on matters regarding the illegal transfer of state assets and assault, respectively. Both Westford and Ramsarran are still Members of Parliament for their party.

A marvel in Lethem By Alva Solomon ITS ARCHITECTURAL beauty may catch visitors by surprise, but a visit to the Rupununi Eco Hotel on the outskirts of Lethem will leave visitors awestruck. The hotel stands as tall as the nearby Kanuku Mountains. Boasting neatly carved marbled floors, pristine yet simple architecture, the Region Nine hotel is highly rated by those who stayed there, given its modern amenities, adaptive location and accommodating staff. It is considered by many who visited Lethem, as well as residents, as one of the town’s best kept secrets. The hotel, which is located in the industrial area of

Lethem – one of Guyana’s newest towns, was opened in April, 2014 by former President Donald Ramotar, on the eve of the Rupununi Rodeo that Easter. This hotel is operated by businessman and President of the Rupununi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Daniel Gadje, who stated that the hotel, which was designed by him, with more than 20 rooms, is still being completed. He noted that the rooms are relatively affordable, and they include the economy and standard rooms, along with luxurious suites, which are located on the top floor of the two-flat building. The hotel, which is relatively new to visitors, has been frequented by several

The Rupununi Eco Hotel Government officials and persons who hold/held public office. It boasts a wide kitchen area, counter space, as well as a well-stocked bar. T h e a i r- c o n d i t i o n e d rooms carry the modernity of a luxury hotel. Among other

An aerial view of the hotel, taken seconds after departure from the Lethem Airstrip

amenities, it offers free Wifi Internet services, refrigerators and the sanitary block, which will surely leave a lasting impression on the visitor. A walk through the uniquely tiled hallway gives one the impression that the hotel is a class by itself. During take-off from the Lethem Airstrip, a view of the hotel, which sits on the boundary of the community, can induce a sigh of awe. From the hotel, the scintillating views of the Rupununi landscape, which includes the Kanuku Mountains, lush savannah lands and its closeness to the stores at the Commercial area at Lethem all, add to the uniqueness of the Rupununi Eco Hotel.

PPP to hold Congress by year-end PEOPLE’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Clement Rohee has said that party’s congress will be held within the final quarter of this year. Rohee’s announcement follows a meeting of the party’s Central Committee on Saturday, where he condemned what he called “attempts to sow seeds of discord in the leadership of the party”. “The Central Committee condemned the continuing witch-hunting and unjustifiable attacks against party leaders and professionals who are perceived to be sympathetic to the PPP/C by the Granger Administration,” Rohee told reporters on Monday at a press conference at that party’s Robb Street, Georgetown headquarters. Rohee said his party will “defend itself against such politically-motivated actions by the Granger Administration”. The PPP General Secretary talked up his party’s success at the recently held Local Government Elections. “Emphasis was also placed on the need to broaden the appeal and reach of the party with respect to significant stakeholders and the society as a whole,” Rohee said. While there is as yet no set theme for the PPP Congress, Rohee said focus will be placed on the need for electoral reforms, inclusive of e-registration, a new voters’ list, electronic voting, and electronic tabulation of results. This comes even as the party continues to mount pressure for the resignation of Guyana Elections Commission Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally. Rohee said the executive of his party will meet to establish a Congress Committee which would be tasked with sourcing a venue as well as finalising a date and theme for the occasion. He noted the “urgency of the party to re-take political power within the shortest possible time…in order to arrest the downward trajectory in which the country is now heading”. At the onset of his press conference, Rohee sought to paint an image of global economic woe, then went on to consider the implications of the global economy on Guyana. Rohee said his party’s Central Committee “took the view that unless these danger signals at the global level are taken into account by the Granger-led coalition administration, the rapid economic development” promised in the coalition Government’s manifesto “will become a pipe dream, and the Guyanese people will be made to suffer the consequences unnecessarily”. When presented with facts from the Governor of Guyana’s Central Bank, indicating a positive economic situation for Guyana, Rohee dismissed the statement as “unbelievable”.

Plans on stream for Agriculture Month MINISTER of Agriculture, Noel Holder on Monday met with the heads of the agriculture sector agencies to discuss a number of critical plans, as it relates to the upcoming Agriculture Month activities. Agriculture month is scheduled for October and will see the ministry showcasing all aspects of the agriculture sector. As part of agriculture month, the Government of Guyana will also be observing National Tree Day. This will be observed on the October 1st in Lethem. Some of the activities carried out during Agriculture month are The World Food Day Fair, Inter-Faith Services, school awareness competitions, NAREI open day, Ministry of Agriculture Healthy Cook-Off, etc. The aim of Agriculture month is to bring sensitization of the importance of the agriculture sector to an economy as a whole; taking into consideration the needs of all categories of citizens. The activities are also designed to attract persons from all walks of life as activities are conducted in all regions of Guyana.

mu t u a l

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Two freed of Kingston cell phone store robbery JERMAINE Bailey and Adam McDonald were yesterday discharged from several counts of robbery under arms by City Magistrate Fabayo Azore. Bailey, 21, of Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown, and McDonald, 26, of Linden had spent the last nine months on remand for the offences. The police had charged the men for allegedly carrying out a brazen robbery at the Elite Mobile Cell Phone Store on Parade Street, Kingston, Georgetown on October 2, 2015. After the robbery they allegedly crashed their getaway car bearing fake number plates outside the Criminal

Investigation Department (CID), Eve Leary. The charge had detailed that the duo, while in the company of others and armed with a gun, robbed Derrick Quaicoe of an Iphone 5S, an Iphone 4S and an Alcatel One Touch phone. It was also alleged that on the same day at the Kingston Seawall, the men while in the company of others and armed with a gun, robbed John Campayne of $60,000. It was further alleged that on the same day, the duo robbed Campayne of five Samsung Galaxy S5 phones, two Black Berry 8520s, and a BlackBerry 9370 among other phones. According to reports the men entered the store around 14:00hrs. One of them reportedly inquired about purchasing credit, while another whipped out a handgun shortly after. The bandits allegedly locked the doors to the premises, while the gunman demanded that persons hand over valuables. It was reported that the bandits carted off a quantity of high end cell phones. Their getaway was botched after they crashed the car into a canal just outside CID headquarters, Kingston.

Police ranks pursued the thieves after noticing them acting suspiciously. A 9mm pistol along with two rounds and a cell phone belonging to a customer of the store were recovered by police. Bailey was charged for fraudulently imitating a vehicle number plate on the day in question at Seawall Road, Kingston. This charge was also dismissed. He was also slapped with two counts of robbery under-arms, which were also dismissed. The first charge stated that on September 13, at Kitty, Georgetown, he robbed Amena Abdulla of $150,000 and US$3000. It was alleged that at the time of the robbery Bailey was armed with a gun. Further, Bailey was accused of robbing Anand Persaud of $2,300. The court heard that the defendant used a gun to commit this robbery and had others in his company. In addition, Baileyâ€™s co-accused, McDonald was accused of having one 9mm semi-automatic pistol, along with nine matching rounds. Magistrate Azore, in her ruling pointed out that the prosecution failed to prove its case since none of the witnesses had come to the court and testified.

Tuesday June 7th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs Wednesday June 8th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs Thursday June 9th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Kuru Kururu shooting...

Young Linden biker died of multiple injuries Suspect still on the run

A POST-mortem conducted yesterday morning on Linden biker Michael Fox, who died in a motor vehicle accident last Friday, has revealed that the 22-year-old died of multiple injuries. This was confirmed by Divisional Commander Calvin Brutus, who also told this newspaper that 20-year-old Cleon Nicholson, driver of motor car PTT 2372 and a student of the Government Technical Institute (GTI), has been released on $100,000 station bail. The investigation into the accident is still active. At the time of the accident, Fox was riding an unregistered CBR motorcy-

cle in an easterly direction and allegedly at a fast rate when he ploughed into the right rear side of Nicholson’s car, which was reportedly proceeding south on the Amelia’s Ward public road. According to eyewitnesses, Fox was pitched off of his bike, and landed some distance away. A miner by profession, Fox had so loved motor bikes that he had participated in the recently held ‘bikers fest’ event during the Linden Town Week. His brother Raphael Bourne, currently on vacation in Guyana, said they were hanging out in the central part of Mackenzie

when Michael decided to ride ahead of him on their

Michael Fox way home, as he was driving. Less than five minutes later, he received a phone

call from someone who notified him of the accident. Upon reaching the scene, the first thing he noticed was the mangled motorcycle. Many persons took to social media to express their grief at the passing of the young man, who was very popular. Some of them were conversing with him on Facebook minutes before he died, and he had even commented on photos and statuses. The late Michael Fox was described as a very quiet and easy-going person by his mother, Debra Gooding. He leaves to mourn his parents, siblings, and other relatives.

Plaisance ‘Line-top’ stabbing...

Police say ‘suspect in hiding’ POLICE are still hunting for the prime suspect who knifed to death 28-year-old Orette West, of Guyhoc Park, last Thursday night. The incident reportedly occurred shortly after midnight during the usual ‘Thursday Night Lime’ at the Plaisance Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara. The police told the Guy-

ana Chronicle yesterday that they have the ‘call-name’ of a suspect, and have been checking his whereabouts but he is yet to show up at these locations. They are of the view that the man is in hiding. Reports indicate that the suspect and the deceased had an old grievance over the young woman with whom West, a

Bandits target East Berbice Chinese restaurant SLEUTHS in ‘B’ Division are investigating a robbery under arms committed on a Chinese national residing at Edinburgh, East Bank Berbice, between 01:30h and 01:45h yesterday. Investigations have so far revealed that Lin Yu Qiang, 33, who operates a “Chinese Restaurant” on the lower flat of the two-storey building, was awoken by a noise in the eating house, and upon checking was confronted by four masked men, one of whom was armed with a handgun and another with a cutlass. The robbers, having demanded cash and valuables the sum of $50,000, two laptop computers and a phone were handed over to them. Not satisfied with what they were given, however, the men proceeded to ransack the premises, and even gun-butted the victim to the back of his head before making good their escape. The police reportedly responded promptly, but no arrests have yet been made. The victim was taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where he was treated and sent away.

bodywork technician, was at the ‘Line-Top’ lime with. On seeing West, a heated argument ensued between the two old adversaries, and the suspect, known only as “Kevin”, whipped out a knife and stabbed West before fleeing the scene. West’s sister, Ginell, told the Guyana Chronicle that she is not sure what trans-

pired, so she and other relatives are relying on the police for information. She said too that even though West lives in a house behind their mother’s at Guyhoc Park, she has not seen him in a while. Described as very sociable and easy-going, West leaves to mourn his mother and seven siblings.

Lindeners charged with rape of British volunteer THREE Lindeners were on Monday remanded to

prison by City Magistrate Judy Latchman after being jointly charge for rape. Seon Alexander of Blueberry Hill, Linden; Anthony VanDembury of Wismar Housing scheme, Linden and a 16-year-old male juvenile were not required to plea to the indictable charge. Reporters and members of the public were blocked from entering the courtroom as the matter was held in camera. The men were refused bail and the matter was adjourned and transferred to Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for June 7. According to reports the incident reportedly occurred on the night of May 6, at Kwakwani, Linden. The young volunteer, who was in Guyana to teach children in Leguan, Essequibo area and had ventured to the Kwakwani to visit other volunteers. Guyana Chronicle was made to understand that the young woman went to a bar with some friends where she was accosted by the three males who took her into a house and raped her. The young woman had told investigators that she was intoxicated at the time of the incident and could not remember what happened when the men took advantage of her. However the woman told police officers that it was the three suspects who had raped her. She said she saw her attackers’ faces.

THE Kuru Kururu woman who was critically injured last Thursday during an argument is reportedly on the mend, but her assailant is still on the run. The police said yesterday that contrary to earlier reports, the woman, Natasha Harry, was not shot in the face, but was rather beaten with a handgun during a row with her reputed husband at her Kuru Injured: Natasha Harry Kururu home just off the Soesdyke/Linden Highway last Thursday night. Harry, a student of the Carnegie School of Home Economics, was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, but was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital GPHC. Reports are that the 31-year-old was hit repeatedly in the face with the gun, after which a relative, who resides at the same address, heard what sounded like a gunshot. The woman and her partner were at the time of the incident embroiled in a heated argument. When relatives checked on her, they found her lying on the floor and bleeding profusely from the face. Her condition has since been listed as stable. Last Thursday also, another 31-year-old by the name of Candacy Pitt was chopped to death by her husband at the Bygeval Secondary School, where she worked as a security guard, just a stone’s throw away from her home. Her cousin, a security guard like herself at the same school, was also chopped in the attack and is hospitalised. Reports are that in the 13 years they’d been married, Pitt had been constantly abused by her husband, who often threatened to end her life and that of her family members, who live just next door to her Chelsea Park home.

Two more unlicensed guns off the road POLICE in ‘A’ and ‘F’ Divisions have, in separate incidents over the weekend, succeeded in taking two more unlicensed firearms and matching ammunition off the road. The first incident occurred on the East Bank on Sunday around 14:10hrs when police in ‘A’ Division, acting on a tip-off, stopped and searched a Route 42 minibus on the Providence Public Road. During the search on one of the bus’ occupants, a .32 pistol and eight matching live rounds were found tucked away in his pants waist. The man was immediately arrested, and charges are to be instituted shortly. The other incident occured in Mahdia, where police in ‘F’ Division took a .38 snub-nosed revolver and two matching spent shells off one of two men who were involved in a fight at Kanaruk. Preliminary investigations have revealed that the pugilists, Festus Benn and Gary Boucher, had an argument that escalated into a fight. It is alleged that during the fight, Boucher discharged two rounds, but Benn managed to take away the weapon and promptly handed it over to the lawmen. Thankfully, no one was injured during the gun-play. Boucher is presently in custody assisting with the investigations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Government condemns murder of women “…alarming number of deaths this year” Shauna Jemmott WITH THE recent slaughter of a Bygeval Secondary School Security Guard and a United States based Guyanese teenager, Government has condemned the apparent declaration of war against Guyanese women locally and abroad. Minister of Social Protection Volda Lawrence says: “It seems that war is being waged with our womenfolk falling victim to the most treacherous weapons.” A statement from the Ministry of Social Protection yesterday said Lawrence expressed grief over the situation and has called for an end. Candacy Pitt, 31, of Chelsea Park, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, died Thursday at her workplace after her husband of 13 years got into a rage and chopped her to death, reports stated. Her cousin, security guard Brenda Thomas, 51, also of Chelsea Park, who had denied the man entry into the compound to see his wife, was also chopped and is a patient at a city hospital. Pitt’s husband surrendered to police and confessed to the crime, police said. Meanwhile, the New York Daily News reported last week that on Wednesday US-based Guyanese 16-year-old Shemel Mercurius was senselessly shot to death in a Brooklyn apartment. The high school student was babysitting her threeyear-old cousin at the time she was attacked. The suspect, her boyfriend, surrendered to New York police. The Minister said, “The alarming number of deaths must be arrested; the choice of life must be prioritized” since the trend is discomforting and traumatizing. Pitt has become the ninth woman slaughtered by a spouse or another male for this year. “Lamentably, we are witnessing a discomforting trend, which is traumatising not only for the households and the communities in which these women reside, but also for the society and the country as a whole.” She said despite government’s efforts to implement measures in empowering women, these attempts are being un-

dermined by the frightening and alarming number of women being murdered. “This signals for us a lamentable negative and a deterrent to our overall national development for, we are losing our most important resource, which is so crucial to the sustainability of our nation,” Lawrence said. The Minister is troubled with the alarming number of reports of domestic abuse and violence with women suffering more than men as jealous lovers, out-of-control former spouses and criminals prey on women living alone or are left vulnerable by peculiar social circumstances. “It seems that there are wanton murders, that domestic problems are being resolved today with recourse to extremely violent action. No longer can we hear of amicable solutions to our domestic conflicts.” The minister is urging improved communication in local communities and highlighted the need for more trained counselors and experienced health care providers. “Murders are costly to the community, to the government, to the nation. It impairs the social network – inevitable loss of life, emotional trauma and breakdown in families, and not forgetting the loss of valuable skills and expertise. There is no doubt a need for more interaction between members of the community, for more trained counselors and experienced health care workers who can provide a forum whereby those suffering from mental illnesses, depression, family upheavals, abuse, can relieve their stress and communicate their problems and difficulties in an atmosphere of confidentiality,” the Minister said. She said while it seems love has been replaced by hatred in relationships, there is a need for the building of stronger families and communities. “This begs important questions: How strong are our family units and communities? How do we stem this tide of wanton killings? Our perpetrators seem to commit these acts of violence impetuously, as if they’re on the edge and there is no other solution than this. Love has become a lost word and has been replaced by hate and violence.”

Records show that for this year, Hafeeza Rohaman, 28 was murdered and buried in a shallow grave at Helena No. 2, Mahaica. Lakeram Harinarine, also called “Vicky” was arrested and confessed to beating Harinarine to death early January. One week later, Leolyn Sullivan, 34, was knifed to death allegedly during an argument with Linden Lawrence Carter, 54, at their Phase 1B Wisroc, Linden home. The woman’s 18-year old daughter Shemeka Campbell was also wounded, but she survived. Later that month, 41-year-old wife Bibi Zabida Khan was allegedly killed by her cane-cutter husband Randolph Williams. Her body was found in a trench at Zeelugt, West Coast Demerara. In March, Indrawattie Somwar, 41, was murdered allegedly by her reputed husband Ravindra Bandu called ‘Birdie’ during a heated confrontation. In April, Simone Hackett’s was found dead in Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown Georgetown days after she went missing. The father of her son, Cleavaughn Hamilton, alias ‘Quarters’ of Mahaicony allegedly slit her throat in a taxi and was charged with the crime. On May 31, Police discovered the lacerated, lifeless body of 49-year-old security guard Latchmini Shivpujan in her apartment at Old Road, Crane, West Coast Demerara. Three persons, including an ex-boyfriend and his relative are in police custody assisting with investigations. Guyanese women living overseas weren’t spared the carnival of death either as 37-year-old Leelawattie Sookhoo and her daughter, Tisha Ahiram, 10 were found dead in their apartment in Nieuw Amsterdam, a village in District Commewijne, in Dutch-speaking Suriname, east of the Guyanese border. The suspect’s boyfriend was arrested for the double homicide. “As Minister of Social Protection, it is disconcerting knowing that every other day, another woman - friend, family or colleague - can be the next victim of either suicide or murder. It may appear either through economic pressures, emotional upheavals, the influence of alcohol or drugs, or mere nonchalance - killers unleashing their frustrations through murderous acts on our unprotected and sometimes unsuspecting women,” Lawrence said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Jobs, less pollution, millions to be generated – with installation of City parking meters, says contractor

By Rabindra Rooplall WITH the installation of parking meters in Georgetown, a minimum of 100 jobs will be created to maintain the system and over $100M is expected to be generated for the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) annually to enhance the City’s infrastructure. This is according to Chairman of National Parking Systems (NPS), Ifa Kamau Cush. The M&CC had an nounced last month that it is giving the ‘parking contract’ to NPS. The parking meter system to be developed in Georgetown is expected to deter motorists, especially taxi drivers, from parking in spaces that store owners reserve for customers. The multimillion-dollar contract is expected to last for 49 years with a Public-Private Partnership between Smart City Solutions, NPS and the M&CC. Cush said the jobs that will arise out of the parking meter system include monitors, enforcement agents, IT-related professionals and administrative assistants. In keeping with President David Granger’s vision for a green economy, Cush said the parking meters will be solar-powered and according to recent studies the installation of parking meters in any City reduces the carbon footprint by 33 per cent - that means fewer cars and less congestion in the City. In describing how the parking meters operate, Cush explained that if a vehicle parks in the parking metered spot, it will sense the vehicle that is parked and whether it is in front of a business spot. If it is at a business spot, the machine will produce a coupon enabling the driver to receive some benefit from using the facility. He said businesses will first have to sign onto the project to also receive benefits. “Essentially, the parking meter system will generate more commerce in the City and install some form of order and managing the limited space available,” he noted. PRE-PAID CARD Cush said a pre-paid card

using Near Field Communications (NFC) technology will be used for parking around the City. This will be sourced from authorised vendors and participating businesses. The card will be swiped onto the meter and the time will be recorded. Meanwhile, John Daniels, a former Deputy Traffic Chief of the Guyana Police Force who is in charge of the enforcement and security portfolio of the project said that one parking meter will be responsible for several spaces. There will be a wireless interface which will allow users to top up their balance on the meters using their mobile phones in the event that their time expires. There will also be a set price for every rotation that a vehicle utilises. The rotation will last 15 minutes. “If you purchase a 15 minutes card then it means you can only be there for 15 minutes or whatever denomination purchased that’s how you’ re measured. If the time goes over a person can use their cell phones once there is sufficient credit in the phone wherever they are and punch in a certain code to increase their stay at the parking meter, if not they will be issued with a ticket,” Daniels explained. He said the card will be in denominations of $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000 and patrons just have to punch in their time that the vehicle will be at the spot and the machine deducts the relevant amount. CURBING VANDALISM Daniels noted also that to prevent vandalism of the meters, there will be 24/7 surveillance via security cameras and personnel hired to make frequent checks at the specific locations. The Chairman of NPS also stated that the project will be completed in two phases and is expected to begin in September this year. Phase One, he said, will focus on the central business district in Georgetown. These areas include Stabroek Square and Camp, Regent, Robb, Church, Brickdam, North Road, Carmichael,

From right, Chairman of NPS Ifa Kamau Cush, John Daniels and engineers from Mexico studying a plan that will detail the placement of parking meters around the City. They were at the Stabroek Market Square on Sunday (Delano Williams photo)

Middle and Water streets, among others. He said persons will be educated on the system that will be implemented via the media and advertisements. Public Relations Officer at City Hall, Debra Lewis said the Council is operating within the laws to install and enforce parking meters in the City. She cited Chapter 28:01 of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Clauses 272 and 274, which read thus: (272) “A Council shall have power, subject to the provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act, the Roads Act, and the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, to construct, maintain, repair, protect, and carry out works for the betterment of Council roads in its Council area, and to regulate and control traffic thereon.” On ‘Traffic Control’, Section 274 reads: “Without prejudice to the generality of the power to regulate and control traffic on Council roads, conferred by Section 272 but subject to the provisions thereof, the Council may: establish, maintain and control car parks; erect and maintain parking meters; regulate the standing and parking of vehicles on Council roads; erect and maintain traffic control signals and traffic signs on Council roads; regulate the speed of vehicles on Council roads; designate particular Council roads as one-way

roads or one-way streets, and require all vehicles thereon to move in one specified direction; require vehicles to stop before entering or crossing any Council road, or to yield to other traffic; and restrict

the use of any Council roads to vehicles of specified types or weights.” Lewis also noted that the Council has not been fulfilling this mandate for some time now, so it seems

like something relatively new or ‘not known’ to many persons. “We would have spoken to the Traffic Chief and he also knows the laws and he has pledged to help train our ranks.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Concerns raised over irregularity of post-Cabinet briefings

UP UNTIL April 20, weekly post-Cabinet press briefings had become a regular expectation by media houses from the Government of the day; however, for the past month these engagements have been infrequent, raising concerns about accountability. Post-Cabinet briefings had usually followed Cabinet meetings held the previous day. Cabinet meetings are usually held every Tuesday, and the media briefed on the happenings of those meetings the following day, or at least before the end of that week. Minister of State Joseph Harmon holds responsibility for media briefings as Cabinet Secretary.

In his absence, other ministers may be assigned to the media briefings. The last briefing, held on April 20, was conducted by Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman. The Guyana Chronicle caught up with Minister Trotman at the Prime Minister’s Shiv Chanderpal Drive office recently and when asked about the lack of post-Cabinet briefings, since the last one hosted by himself, Minister Trotman pointed to Minister Harmon as the “primary official who hosts the post-Cabinet briefings,” and said too that he will “certainly bring it up to Cabinet’s attention tomorrow (May 31).” Efforts to contact Minister Harmon for a comment have

been unsuccessful. One of Guyana’s more senior journalists, Nazima Raghubir, when invited for a comment from this newspaper, said she is not only concerned about the irregularity of post-Cabinet media briefings, but also the irregularity of press briefings with President David Granger himself. President Granger however hosts a weekly programme “The Public Interest”, where he invites media representatives to ask him any question. Minister of State Each week reporters from Mr Joseph Harmon different agencies are invited to participate, but Raghubir called it “unfair” that the media’s interaction with the President has been limited to engagements on his weekly programme, where she said the conversations are confined and there are limited opportunities for follow-up questions. “There are issues that should have been dealt with at Cabinet briefings, but since the Brian Tiwarie issue, there has been a lack of post-Cabinet press briefings and that does not reflect good on this Government,” Raghubir continued. Following a high-level retreat in April last by the Alliance For Change (AFC), the junior member of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) + AFC Coalition Government, that party had issued a statement raising concerns that the positions of Cabinet Secretary; Head of the Presidential Secretariat; and Minister of State in the Ministry of the Presidency had been vested in one person, Minister Harmon. The AFC had called for separate appointments to be made, thus relieving Minister Harmon of some of those portfolios. Thus far, there has been no word from either the APNU or the AFC as to whether those recommendations from the AFC would have been acted on. Meanwhile, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Clement Rohee, told this newspaper in an invited comment last week that under the previous Donald Ramotar Administration, former Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, “would have regular-post Cabinet press briefings, and we would inform the public as to what were the decisions arrive at in Cabinet.” Rohee expressed concern with what he called the “seasonal” way of holding post-Cabinet briefings, adding that the issue stands “in the interest of transparency and accountability and the public interest”.

146 cases on list to be heard - June Session begins today

THE June session includes a list of 146 cases to be heard by three judges who are expected to begin hearing cases from today. They are Justices Navindra Singh, Jo-Ann Barlow and Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. One of them will inspect a Guard of Honour formed by 60 ranks of the Tactical Services Unit which was intended to mark the occasion of the June Criminal Session in Demerara. After inspecting the ranks, the said judge will take the salute during a march past that will bring an end to the traditional parade for the occasion. The Chief Justice and others would then assemble for a short reception in the Chief Justice’s Chamber. Thereafter, the waiting jurors will be given a talk about dos and don’ts before getting into the real session. Of the 146 cases listed, Justice Jo-Ann Barlow has 53 cases on her list, Justice Navindra Singh 46 and Justice Priya Sewnarine 47.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Partnerships ‘key’ for Windies moving forward -Holder ... Nathan Lyon cites exceptional communication By Stephan Sookram THE West Indies were marred by a constant deplorable selection of shots coupled with the constant and consistent fall of wickets. That was how captain Jason holder summed up his side’s six-wicket loss to the Aussies at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence on Sunday. “The most important thing for us is to get some partnerships going up front and let the momentum flow through the mid-innings. “We never really got any partnerships going. Just not enough runs on the board, to be honest,” said Holder during the post-match press conference. “If you went through the dismissals, there were quite a few soft dismissals. The Australians challenged us in terms of building pressure, but I don’t think they got us out with any spectacular balls, per se. We just played some horrible shots out there at a crucial stage of the game which cost us our wickets.” And he was right in his analysis; notable mentions

of Kieron Pollard who opted to slog his first Nathan Lyons delivery down to David Warner at long-on and Darren Bravo who selected Adam Zampa at extra cover to drive a full and wide Mitchel Marsh delivery. Holder was more comforting to his bowlers. “The bowlers didn’t really have anything to bowl at, although we tried really, really hard and did get four of the Australians’ wickets. I thought Sunil Narine came in and did an excellent job for us in the end and we got some wickets upfront,” he said. “I think we’ve bowled reasonably well for the first two games; the bowlers have really put up their hands. It’s just important for the batsmen to build partnerships, especially up front, and just give ourselves some cushion in the middle and be able

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to blast at the end with the power we have in the dressing room.” Meanwhile, a smiling Nathan Lyon had a warmer reception for his teammates. “Our communication is one of our biggest weapons. As I said, we’re all really good mates; we all want to see each other do well. So if we can have that open communication with each other and try and help each other to better the team and get the right result for Australia, then we’re heading the right way.” Speaking more to a personal performance, the off-spinner added, “Always good to be on a hattrick, but at the end of the day I was more worried about trying to stop the runs and if a wicket came around, then good. It’s just about trying to create some chances.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 7, 2016

Warriors crush Cavaliers 110-77 to take 2-0 lead By Rory Carroll

OAKLAND, California (Reuters) - The Golden State Warriors moved into a commanding position in the NBA Finals with a 110-77 romp over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, the defending champions easing to victory in front of a delighted home crowd. Draymond Green was the latest Warrior to shine as the team’s All-Star backcourt was afforded another quiet game, the power forward scoring a game-high 28 points as Golden State opened a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. MVP Stephen Curry recorded 18 points and nine rebounds but played just 25 minutes and spent much of the night cheering from the bench while his team ran ram-

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) shoots the ball against Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) during the first quarter in game two of the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. (Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) pant against a lethargic and every night has an impact,” outclassed opposition. Curry told reporters. “You “What we’ve done the don’t know where it’s golast few years, everybody, ing to come from any given

night. That’s why we’re in this position.” Cleveland’s misery was compounded in the third quarter when forward Kevin Love was forced to leave the game feeling dizzy after taking a blow to the head in the second quarter. Love has been placed in concussion protocol, the Cavs said. Cavaliers talisman LeBron James finished with 19 points, nine assists and eight rebounds but did not play in the fourth quarter once the Warriors had opened a big lead by the end of the third. “They beat us pretty good tonight,” James said. “We understand the moment we’re in. It’s not every year you get an opportunity to be in this situation. We have to bear down.” The Cavs return home to

Cleveland for Game Three tomorrow when they will try to make their first telling impact in what has been a disappointing mismatch to date. Secondary scorer Kyrie Irving managed just 10 points in Game Two as Cleveland shot only 35 percent. The Cavaliers were supposed to be better prepared for a Finals rematch with the Warriors as they entered healthier and more talented than the hobbling team that lost 4-2 a year ago, but they have been destroyed in the opening two contests. Golden State have now beaten Cleveland seven straight times, dating back to last season’s Finals. The latest match-up was all but decided midway the third, when Curry went to the bench due to foul trouble

and with the Warriors leading by 10. Golden State barely missed a beat and pushed the lead to 20 heading to the fourth and never looked back. Reserve Shaun Livingston was Golden State’s top scorer in the series opener and in Game Two they once again flashed a balanced arsenal of play-makers with Klay Thompson adding 17 points. Green said the Warriors had learned to step up when Curry was injured earlier in the post-season. “Steph can do so much by himself out there that when he goes out we really use each other,” Green said. “It was very important to gain confidence when Steph went out. We had to do a little more.”

Mexico show title credentials in thrilling Copa win over Uruguay GLENDALE, Arizona -Two late goals from Mexico helped the CONCACAF nation to a 3-1 victory over Uruguay in its Copa America Centenario Group C opener. Goals from Rafa Marquez and Hector Herrera handed Mexico a vital three points, with Diego Godin having levelled in the second half, after Uruguayan defender Alvaro Pereira had given Mexico an early lead with an own goal. Only four goals had been scored over the first five games in the tournament, but Mexico’s victory over

Uruguay on Sunday showed exactly what this combined CONCACAF/CONMEBOL tournament can and should be. The selection of Rafa Marquez in Mexico’s squad had been criticised ahead of this tournament, but the 37-year-old - Mexico’s most successful player in terms of titles in Europe - was the star of the show. Marquez played an inch-perfect ball out wide for Andres Guardado to cross for Pereira to put into his own goal for El Tri’s opener and netted the vital second himself in the 85th minute.

Mexico roar out of the gates in front of a partisan crowd, but still needed some late heroics to clinch the victory. With this game billed as the battle for top spot in Group C, El Tri went racing out of the blocks, suffocat-

ing Uruguay’s attempts to start attacks and threatening consistently during the first half. Things went from bad

to worse for Uruguay when Matias Vecino was sent off for his second yellow in the 45th minute. At that point, it seemed that Uruguay wasn’t so much missing Luis Suarez as lacking any idea or philosophy, as if it was a hastily put-together team and not one of the favourites for this tournament. Few would have given 10-man Uruguay serious hope after halftime, but the 2011 Copa America winner showed exactly why it is considered a contender for the cup by wresting control of the game from Mexico. Atletico Madrid defender Diego Godin did what he has done so often for club and country and rose to head in

from a free kick to level the score, with Mexico also going down to 10 when Andres Guardado was sent off for the foul that led to the goal in the 74th. Had Diego Rolan netted an easy chance earlier on the hour mark, things could have been very different for Uruguay, but Mexico refused to back down. Marquez proved to be the unlikely difference-maker in a very good game. In the end, this was a huge win for Mexico and one which leaves the path open for El Tri to finish atop Group C and avoid Argentina in the quarterfinal stage, should the Albiceleste finish first in Group D as expected.

Shastri has applied for India’s coach position FORMER India team director Ravi Shastri has applied for the post of national head coach. Shastri, who worked with the team from August 2014 to April 2016, confirmed his application to PTI yesterday. His contract as team director had ended with India’s exit from the World T20 in March. “Yes, I have applied for the chief coach’s post this

Ravi Shastri

morning. I have e-mailed all the requisite documents that were asked for in the advertisement,” Shastri said. Asked if he had prepared any presentation or roadmap, Shastri said: “Whatever is required by the BCCI, I have provided them. “If you ask me whether I am confident or not, all I can say is that my job was to apply for the post and I have

done that. I cannot comment on anything else.” Under Shastri, who had taken over as director in 2014, India made it to semi-finals of successive global events - the 2015 World Cup and the 2016 World T20, and also climbed to No. 1 on the Test rankings for a period of eight weeks until Australia took over in February 2016. In this period, India also

won their first limited-overs bilateral series in Australia, by whitewashing the hosts 3-0 in a T20 series. Apart from Shastri, current chairman of selectors and former India coach Sandeep Patil has also thrown his hat in the ring. Patil had earlier coached India back in 1996, taking over from Ajit Wadekar who stepped down after India’s semi-final loss to

Sri Lanka in the 1996 World Cup semi-final. Patil’s tenure was a forgettable one; he was replaced within six months. However, Shastri’s team of support staff - Sanjay Bangar, R. Sridhar and B Arun - have not yet applied as BCCI sources believe that they would like to continue in their earlier roles depending on the requirements of the board. (ESPN Criciinfo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

GBTI tennis tournament serves off with keen contests A FIERCE men’s singles battle, which saw United States Bobby Adelson take down Khawn Rodney, opened the competition in the Guyana Bank of Trade and Industry (GBTI) Tournament, which got underway last Friday evening at the at GBTI Recreational Centre. As matches continued throughout the weekend Stephen Bailey, Mark McDonald, Daniel Lopes, Andre Erskine, Heimraj Resaul, and Kester Abrams also secured victories in the first round of the men’s singles. Nicholas Glasgow and Surendra Khayyam secured walkovers against their opponents. Aretta Dey and Fiona Bushell moved on to the next round in the ladies’ singles. Dey won a double bagel over Patricia Hope, while Bushell received a walkover against Alana Chung. Players were anxious for the two days of matches which resulted in keen contests.

Men’s singles winner Bobby Adelson and his opponent Khawn Rodney In the Adelson/Rodney matchup, Adelson, whose flamboyant style of play created a buzz during the tournament in 2015, was initially stunned by Rodney and went down in the first set 4-6. In the second set Rodney was again up 4-1 main-

taining a flurry of solid groundstrokes. Adelson then switched on his game and played more defensively, which drew errors from Rodney and levelled the set for a tie-break. Adelson managed to win the tie-break 7/5. In

the third set, Rodney developed cramps in his hands which hampered his consistency and Adelson raced away to take the third set 6-1. Competition on Friday was preceded by a brief opening ceremony at the same venue, during which GBTI’s Marketing Manager Ms Pamela Binda, expressed the bank’s commitment towards the development of tennis in Guyana. She reiterated that the indicator for the sport’s development lies in the outcome of tournaments and as such she wishes for great challenges to dethrone the defending champions, a press release from the Association said. Assistant Coordinator of the tournament, Daniel Lopes, expounded on his desire for sound sportsmanship to be exemplified throughout the tournament, noting that the tournament generally features the best players in Guyana and therefore produces a high level of performance. He noted, however, that there is room for improvement

GBTI Marketing Manager Ms Pamela Binda serves the first ball. categories. as he remains optimistic that this year with the introduction of revised guiding principles, the tournament can set a great example for the future. The competition will see 136 players battle it out in 11 categories to be the ultimate victors in their respective

The categories are boys’ singles, girls’ singles, men’s open singles, ladies’ open singles, men’s over-35 singles, men’s over-45 singles, novice medley singles, men’s open doubles, ladies’ open doubles, mixed open doubles, and the novice medley doubles.

Old Trafford gives Mourinho raucous welcome MANCHESTER (United Kingdom) (AFP) - Jose Mourinho enjoyed a raucous reception as he watched a charity match from the stands on Sunday in his first appearance at Old Trafford since being named Manchester United manager. Just nine days after the official confirmation of Mourinho’s appointment, the 53-yearold was in Manchester to give his support to UNICEF, who use the Soccer Aid friendly to raise money for children in danger across the world. The former Chelsea boss originally agreed to manage an “England” team consisting of former internationals, musicians, actors and other celebrities, against a Rest of the World team coached by Leicester’s Claudio Ranieri and featuring a host of retired legends.

Fans give Jose Mourinho a hero’s greeting at Old Trafford match-day management duBut, following his move to United, Mourinho decided to save his first game on the home bench for the club’s clash with Everton in Wayne Rooney’s testimonial on August 3. Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce took care of the

ties instead, while Mourinho watched from the directors box as England won 3-2. “I’m sorry I couldn’t be more involved tonight, but I’m so happy and involved at the beginning of my job at Manchester United that all the time I have right now

is working time,” Mourinho wrote in the match programme. “But I love the boys at Soccer Aid so much -- the atmosphere and especially the cause -- that I couldn’t be away on the day of the game.” Plenty of fans were waiting outside Old Trafford to greet Mourinho when he got off the England team bus and some in the stands held aloft signs and banners bearing his name. Mourinho, hired to replace Louis van Gaal on a three-year deal, was given a loud reception from supporters, some of whom snapped up scarfs emblazoned with the new United manager’s name and face, and it didn’t take long for the Portuguese to make himself at home. - NEW HOUSE Pele was UNICEF’s guest

of honour and Mourinho posted a photo on his Instagram account of him and the Brazil legend as they shook hands in front of a Manchester United badge in the players’ tunnel. The caption to Mourinho’s photo read: “An honour to host Pele at my new house” and he also posted a picture of himself standing in the tunnel looking towards the pitch. Mourinho gave an interview to ITV before kick-off, but his microphone broke before he could get into full flow. “I’m very happy to be here, and especially alongside Ranieri, who won the Premier League, and Sam, who saved Sunderland from relegation,” Mourinho said. “It’s a shame I’ve really not had a chance to enjoy this season as much as they did.” Sunderland forward Jermain Defoe scored twice for an

England side including Robbie Fowler and Jamie Carragher, as well as pop star Robbie Williams and One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson. Ronaldinho, Cafu, Jaap Stam and Edgar Davids starred for the Rest of the World, whose goals were scored by former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov. Mourinho will take charge of his first game as United boss when they face Borussia Dortmund in Shanghai on July 22. With his charity commitments out of the way, Mourinho has to focus on a less pleasant distraction as the employment tribunal brought by former Chelsea first-team doctor Eva Carneiro began yesterday. Carneiro is claiming constructive dismissal against Chelsea and Mourinho could be called as a witness.

Laver wishes Djokovic luck with Grand Slam bid

AUSTRALIAN tennis great Rod Laver has wished Novak Djokovic luck in matching his feat of securing all four grand slams in a calendar year, a day after the Serb secured ownership of all four of the sport’s major titles. With his triumph at the

Roland Garros, Djokovic became the first man since Laver in 1969, and only the third in the history of tennis, to hold the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles at the same time. Laver, now 77, did it twice and both times inside a calendar year for the Grand Slam,

an achievement Djokovic can match with titles at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open later this season. Djokovic said after his victory over Andy Murray that the feat, perhaps even augmented by an Olympic gold medal for the Golden Grand Slam, was possible and Laver

was backing him all the way. “Congratulations Novak on a great effort in winning all four major titles,” Laver said in a brief video posted on the Australian Open Twitter account. “And I just wish you all the best in the future with your matches in Wimbledon and

the US Open.” Laver, who was unable to play most of the majors between his Grand Slams in 1962 and 1969 because he had turned professional, said in May that Djokovic and Roger Federer should be considered the greatest players of all-time.

Former Australian tennis player Rod Laver holds a trophy presented to him during a ceremony on Australia Day at the Rod Laver Arena at the Australian Open tennis tournament at Melbourne Park, Australia, January 26, 2016. (Reuters/ Jason Reed)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday June 7, 2016

GABF receives donation from ‘Reds’ Perreira

THE Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) received a donation towards the hosting of the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championships yesterday, at Cara Lodge. The donation came from former GABF president Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira. The donation, according to ‘Reds’ was “a small contribution to get the ball rolling on donation of funds to the GABF from corporate Guyana”. He also stated that he was interested in giving back to Guyana since he himself is

GABF president Nigel a product of Guyana despite residing in St Lucia. The donation could not have come at a better time

Hinds receives cheque since the Federation was still in the hunt for contributions from corporate Guyana to fill a $20M deficit, according to

George wins bronze in 400m GUYANA’S Olympian Winston George, won third place in the men’s 400m, while he also clocked a wind-aided 20.42 seconds in the men’s 200m, when he participated in the 31st annual Jim Bush Track & Field Championships in the United States last Saturday. George clocked 46.51 seconds in the 400m to finish behind Lalonde Gordon, who won the race in 45.09 seconds, and Josh Mance, who took second in a time of 45.94 seconds. Meanwhile, the superb 20.42 seconds clocked by George would have qualified him for the event at the Rio Olympic Games. However, the tail wind was above the allowable limit, rendering the timings void. George finished fifth in the race, which was won by Tyson Gay in a time of 20.22 seconds. The 20.42 seconds is just inside the 20.50 seconds men’s 200m Olympic qualifying standard for the Olympics, but the Championships recorded a wind speed of +3, which is above the legal +2.0 accepted wind speed. Wind speed is considered an important factor in sprints, as tailwinds are considered to give the competing athletes an

unfair advantage. The maximum legal wind assistance is 2.0 metres per second. If the runners of a race receive more wind assistance than this, their times will not be eligible as national or world records. Had it not been for the wind George would have qualified for his second event at the upcoming August 5-21 Games. The national men’s 400m record holder qualified, since last year, to participate in the men’s 400m at the Olympics; Guyana’s first athlete to qualify for the Olympics. However, expectations are still high that the 29- year-old would qualify for his second event at this year’s Olympics. Head of the North America arm of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aliann Pompey, is confident that the only thing between George and his qualification in the men’s 200m is time “He’s going to run faster, I’ve seen his training sessions. Once he’s not as nervous at the meets, he will fly, trust me; next time he runs the 200m he will, I believe so.” Pompey commented. Coach for the quarter-miler, Joe Ryan, also remarked that he is pleased with what he

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday June 07, 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: (1) Sydney, 1992 (World Cup) (2) 39 wins Today’s Quiz: (1) How many ODIs Kepler Wessels played for Australia? (2) Who was the Australian captain when the Aussies took on SA in an ODI game for the first time? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Winston George has seen coming from George so far for the season, and sees improvement ahead for George, who is scheduled to participate at several meets before the Olympics. “He is making very good progress! (He) ran 20.42 in 200 in California yesterday (Saturday). Speed levels are much higher than last year. He has a good series of races coming up in the Caribbean. I’m very pleased with his training and he has been injury-free, which is always important, and he is very disciplined in training.” Ryan remarked. That means that overseas-based Guyanese Brenessa Thompson, still remains the only Guyanese Olympic qualifier to, thus far, qualify for more than one event at the Games. Thompson is set to take on both women’s 100m and 200m. George and Thompson are two of only four Guyanese athletes to thus far qualify for this year’s Olympic Games. The other athletes are Aaliyah Abrams (women’s 400m) and current world-ranked triple jumper Troy Doris.

from ‘Reds’ Perreira, president Nigel Hinds. “The budget for our hosting the games is capped at $80M, as of right now we are

around the $60 million-mark and still need to fill the difference,” said Hinds. “We had to halt our push for funds with the 50th Jubilee celebrations getting underway but now we need corporate Guyana to help us more than ever.” He added that the Guyana Olympics Association (GOA) had also donated $1M to the Federation. Guyana Basketball Official Council (GBOC) also received a contribution of 48 whistles from ‘Reds’. Digicel also provided the lanyards (whistle straps) for the whistles.

This was made possible by Jaqueline James, Digicel Head of Marketing according to ‘Red’. Switching gears from the donations, Hinds spoke about the player preparations leading up to the games. “Our preparation is at 100 per cent, Our players are well on their way to being ready; the month-end arrival of the FIBA-certified rings and apparatus will boost preparations,” said Hinds. The CBC Championships games are scheduled for July 2 to 17 and will be hosted in Guyana.

end at the Virginia International Raceway. After qualifying in P2, I had great pace again this weekend going into race one on Saturday, but due to a few mistakes had to settle for a P4 finish,” Ming told the media. Sunday’s first race saw a wild exchange of positions at the front of the field with both Denes and Ming in contention for the race win. At the line, Denes finished second, Ming third and Frederick in seventh having led the race on a couple of occasions. The top four cars were separated by the slimmest of margins possible, 0.06 seconds, showcasing just how close F1600 competition was. Ming continued, “The two races on Sunday were both battles royal, but again we were

fast. We were leading the last lap in both, but came up just short of taking home a win. The draft was definitely huge at this track, and I ended up finishing in P3 and P5 respectively.” “I definitely learnt a lot this weekend, and gained some great experience, which I will take over to the next round at Mid-Ohio. I am also very thankful to Team Pelfrey for another good weekend, and a great car,” he concluded. The final race of the weekend did not go to plan for the trio in yellow. A last lap three wide move saw Denes and Ming challenge for the win, but both had to avoid an incident and settled for fifth and eighth across the line.

Ming returns to take F1600 podium CALVIN Ming continued his ascent up the F1600 ladder with another podium finish last weekend in Virginia. Driving under the team Pelfrey banner, the overseas-based Guyanese picked up third in race two after an enterprising drive. In Saturday’s qualifying session, Ming put together a solid effort to qualify second, with team mate Phillippe Dene and, Kaylen Frederick qualifying in fourth and twelfth respectively. Staying true to his form as of late, Denes made his way to the front of the pack in the first race of the weekend, and was only just beaten to the line by 0.045 seconds at the chequered flag. Ming fell back to fourth, “It was an exciting week-

Photo finish! Calvin Ming (extreme left) is third in the bunch at the F1600 Championship in Virginia.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Spinners take the centre stage as Australia, South Africa clash By Rajiv Bisnauth

BRACING for what promises to be an exciting third game of the tri-series today between World One-Day champions, Australia and South Africa, the spinners will hold the key for success considering the spin-friendly conditions. On challenging batting surfaces at the Guyana National Stadium, spinners from all the teams have enjoyed the conditions on offer, and are likely to again play the lead roles in today’s clash. Australia and South Africa have been two of the more competitive teams in the world since the late 1990s. The World champions come into this clash after thrashing hosts West Indies by six wickets on Sunday and it was not the seamers but the spinners, who were

South Africa spinner Imran Tahir is expected to play a key role. squad in particular looking the wreckers on the turning surface. Adam Zampa, Nathan Lyon and Glenn Maxwell took seven wickets with Lyon, who was dropped from the World T20

dangerous. Apart from the helpful pitch, the spinners maintained an impeccable line and length and judging from the two games so far, South African

batsmen will again be tested. David Warner, who is coming off an excellent IPL season, again showed why he should be considered one of the best batsmen in the world, leading Australia’s chase with an unbeaten 55-run knock. Usman Khawaja aside, the rest of the batsmen struggled to cope with the spin. The Proteas were blown away by a Sunil Narine special spell in the first game, with the wily spinner taking his career-best figures of 6-27. Though they lost that game, South Africa come into this clash knowing that they have one of the better batting attacks in the world and any line-up which features Quinton de Kock, Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers will be feared irrespective of the conditions. The spinners, Imran Tahir and Aaron Phangiso, did

GCANA donates championship jerseys to GCF

THE Guyana Cycle Association of North America (GCANA) yesterday presented the Guyana Cycle Federation (GCF) with the championship jerseys that will be up for grabs when the latter stages its national championships starting June 18. The GCF also announced yesterday that changes had to be made to its original programme for the championships, which will see juniors, veterans, ladies and elites battle for honours with an aim of representing Guyana at any international competition. Yesterday, former national cycle champion Victor Rutherford made the presentation of the championship jerseys to GCF’s first vice-president Paul Cho-Wee-Nam at the residence of Flying Stars Cycle Club’s president Rudolph `Duckie’ Singh. According to Rutherford, who is the coordinator of GCANA based in the United States, his organisation which is made up of former national cyclists decided three years ago to donate the championship jerseys to the GCF and to date they have kept good on their promise as was evident yesterday. The GCANA is headed by former national sprint champion Neville Hunte and among its other members are Monty Davis,

… Changes announced to national c/ships

Nathan Lyon could be a handful in today’s clash against South Africa. their bit in the opening encounter, but they were eventually limited by lack of runs on the board. Australia bonus-point win on Sunday put them top of the points table, ahead of the hosts and South Africa. Australia squad: Steven Smith (capt.), David Warner, George Bailey, Nathan CoulterNile, James Faulkner, Aaron Finch, John Hastings, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman

Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade (wk), Adam Zampa. South Africa squad: AB de Villiers (capt), Kyle Abbott, Hashim Amla, Farhaan Behardien, Quinton de Kock (wkp.), JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis, Imran Tahir, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi.

Muhammad Ali’s family set to fight over legendary boxer’s fortune

Coordinator of the GCANA and former national cyclist Victor Rutherford (second left) presents one of the jerseys that will be up for grabs to GCF’s first vice-president Paul Cho-Wee-Nam, while others in this Delano Williams photo are, from left, GCF acting secretary Gem Williams and Guyana’s representative of the GCANA, William Howard. Garvin Ingram and Hugh Pickering. According to Rutherford, the GCANA, apart from contributing gear and equipment to the GCF and individual cyclists, his organisation also assists with the boarding and lodging of local cyclists when they visit the U.S. for training and competition. Meanwhile, the GCF was forced to make changes to the dates and schedule of its national championships. According to GCF’s committee member Linden Dowridge, the road races

for juniors, veterans and ladies will be held on June 18 around the Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara circuit beginning 08:00hrs and the juniors and veterans will cover a distance of 50 miles or 8.5 laps of the circuit, while the ladies will compete in a 25-mile contest or four laps around the circuit. The GCF’s national championships will continue on June 25 with the time trials for all categories of cyclists and this will be held around the Mahaicony

circuit as well and will commence at 08:00hrs. The following day (June 26), the Elite cyclists will take to the road for a 75-mile event and this will be held around the outer circuit of the National Park beginning at 11:00hrs. The 75-mile event is equivalent to 30 laps around the National Park’s outer circuit. However, the finish line for the event will be outside the Guyana Defence Force’s entrance situated on Irving Street, opposite Barr Street, Kitty.

BOXING legend Muhammad Ali’s death on June 4 plunged the entire world into grief and sadness and as arrangements were being finalised for his funeral in his home city of Louisville, Kentucky, his lawyers now face the task of distributing his vast fortune.The ‘Greatest’ as Ali was called, was married four times and leaves behind nine children along with current wife Lonnie Ali and brother Rahaman Ali. His fourth wife Lonnie will most likely be the “executor” of his will and this is where, according to a report in the Express, sources claim “it could get messy” due to various divisions within the family. Reportedly, there is a rift between some family members. Speaking about Lonnie, Charlotte Waddell, a cousin of the fighter, said: “I can’t stand to be around her. It wouldn’t take me two seconds to spit in her face.” Also, Lonnie had reportedly forced Ali’s brother Rahaman out of the family home and into a flat. The late boxing legend is reported to be worth around £35M ($50M) and was still earning between £3M to £5M through his deals with companies like Electronic Arts and Adidas. The boxer also owns properties in Arizona and Kentucky with his memorabilia likely to fetch a good amount. The funeral of the former three-time world boxing heavyweight champion will be held on June 10 at Louisville, Kentucky, where people will be allowed to pay their respects. The funeral will be preceded by a procession through the streets where the legend grew up, with former American president Bill Clinton and comedian Billy Crystal among the eulogists. (International Business Times Sport)

Spinners take the centre stage as Australia, South Africa clash

See story on page 23

Partnerships ‘key’ for Windies moving forward - Holder See story on page 19

West Indies fans on the edge of their seats on Sunday during their team’s 6-wicket loss to Australia at the Guyana National Stadium. (Photo by WICB Media/Randy Brooks of Brooks Latouche Photography)

Rio’s Olympic tram breaks down on first day (REUTERS) - A new tram built as part of a drive to improve infrastructure in Rio de Janeiro for the Olympic Games broke down yesterday, its first full day in

operation. One of the trains on the light rail system, known as the VLT, which connects Rio’s Santos Dumont airport to downtown, lost power and came to a halt at around

15:00hrs. local time, City Hall said in a statement. Passengers were forced to disembark and continue their journey on foot. “The service was re-established in nearly 20 min-

utes, without further interruptions,” City Hall said. The breakdown raises fresh concerns over the quality of Rio’s Olympic projects, which have been built on a tight deadline

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ahead of the August 5 start and during a deep recession. In April, two people died when a new bike lane, built as part of a wider revitalisation linked to the Olympics fell into the

ocean. The VLT covers 28 kilometres (17 miles) in central Rio and has 32 stops. It cost about 1.2 billion reais ($344 million). TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 2016