Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 20 07 2016

Showdown! No. 104618

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

City Hall blocks containers from leaving wharves

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Dead:Joshua Jossiah Tyric George

Drop-In Centre tragedy...

Brothers given 2 touching send-off Page

She valiantly tried to ithold it together throughout She valiantly tried to hold together throughout the service, the service, but inthe theend end it all proved too much the boys’Inset: mother. Inset: but in it all proved too much for the for boys’ mother. Joshua and Antonio (Photos by Adrian Joshua and Antonio (Photos by Delano Williams)Narine)

Dead: Antonio Dominique Alex George

Source reveals ...

Conditions at Veterans’ Home ‘prison-like’ 9 Page

Sloth saved from being sold centre

It’s official!

centre

Republicans nominate Trump for president

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Drop-In Centre tragedy…

Brothers given touching send-off By Shirley Thomas

AGONIZING best describes the mood at the New Testament Ministries at Lot ‘G’ Joseph P o l l y d o re & C h a p e l Streets, Lodge yesterday, where a Thanksgiving Service was held for the two brothers who perished in the fire that

Antonio Dominique Alex George, could not have been opened for viewing because of the state of their charred bodies, but the pain was somewhat mitigated by the presence of their beautifully framed photographs prominently displayed atop each coffin for the mourners and sympathisers to see as they

fateful night; and a large turn-out of Welfare Officers and other staff of the Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA). Minister Lawrence, who had moments before left a Cabinet meeting to attend the service, extended condolences on behalf of President David Granger, Prime Minister Moses

Nagamottoo and the rest of Cabinet. Lawrence expressed gratitude to Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton for his cooperation; to the members of the fire department for their gallant efforts at extinguishing the blaze; and to the ranks of the Police Force for maintaining law and order at the scene of the fire. Empathizing with the boys’ parents, the minister noted that it is tough when a mother loses one child, and doubly so when she loses two at See page 10

The boys’ parents, Sonia and Ulric George (first and second left), have a last look before their children are wheeled out of the church razed the Drop-In Centre on July 10. The congregation of mostly women, tearyeyed with grief and still in shock, remained prayerful and calm. The boys’ parents, Sonia and Ulric George, and their siblings, weeping for the greater part of the service, appeared to have momentarily slipped into a trance, then fainted as the bodies were being taken away. The immaculate white coffins bearing the remains of six-year-old Joshua Jossiah Tyric George and his three-year-old brother,

filed past. Above each photograph were replicas of two angels watching down on the boys, with the inscription: “Sleep well, my beloved son.” Among those joining the bereaved family in paying their last respects to Joshua and Antonio were Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence, and Minister of State within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott; chief caregivers Sharon Fraser Jones and Rupert Hudson, who evacuated the children from the burning building on the

Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence, addressing the Thanksgiving Service

The coffins bearing the remains of Joshua and Antonio George

Mother of raped Berbice sisters granted bail

A 35-YEAR-OLD mother of 13 children was slapped with three counts of child neglect following her appearance before Magistrate Alex Moore at the Sisters Court, East Bank Berbice on Tuesday. The unrepresented defendant pleaded not guilty to the separate charges which alleged that on July 19, at Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice, she wilfully contributed to her children, aged 7, 5 and 10 respectively, being in need of protective intervention and omitted to do so, thereby causing harm to the

respective children. This newspaper had reported that the three sisters were found sleeping on the seawalls by welfare officials last week after they were reportedly beaten and thrown out of the house by their step-father. The sisters also claimed that they were raped multiple times by the step-father. The defendant told the court that she is employed as a domestic and is the mother of 13 children, four of whom live with her, including a three-month-old baby, who is being breastfed.

Police Inspector Phillip Sherrif, prosecuting, objected to pre-trial liberty, highlighting the nature and seriousness of the offence. He informed the court that the three sisters remain hospitalized, while he argued that the mother should have protected her children at all times. However, the magistrate overruled his objection and noted that he did not find grounds for an objection to granting bail. Consequently, the mother was ordered to pay $50,000 bail on each count, totalling $150,000. She is expected to return

to court on August 16 for report. The plight of the three children became public interest after they were found neglected at Edinburgh Village. Subsequently, they were taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where they are being examined and treated. Inspector Sherrif informed the court that a file has been sent to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, where legal advice is being sought. Consequently, another person is expected to be charged.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

City Hall blocks containers from leaving wharves By Alva Solomon

A SHOWDOWN between City Hall and two Water Street shipping companies on Tuesday saw the Georgetown Municipality blocking the movement of container-laden trucks from the companies’ city wharves over a $25,000 shipping container tax. Town Clerk, Royston King reported that the move is aimed at commencing repair works to the roads. At the scene, Assistant Town Clerk, Sherry Jerrick noted that the council was invoking Sections 273/74 of the city by-laws “with respect to the use of roads by vehi-

cles of a certain weight”. City Constables proceeded to place barricades outside the entrances of Muneshwers and John Fernandes Limited on Water Street, leaving company officials baffled at the move by the council. King said the issue is relative to Section 274/76 of the city by-laws which he noted stipulates that the Georgetown Mayor and City Council is entitled to fees by those persons who use roadways, streets parapets and space owned by all citizens on the city. “We have the right and authority to charge fees and this is what we are doing in this particular point of time”, he said.

“It’s not getting the containers really, it’s really getting to do maintenance works, critical works to our roadways in the city,” the Town Clerk told reporters. Robin Muneshwer, a manager at Muneshwers Limited on Water Street told members of the media that no prior notice was given to the company about the move. “There is a barricade outside our compound, we can’t move. They just came and no traffic is allowed out”, he said. Meanwhile, the Assistant Town Clerk, Jerrick told reporters that the issue is not confined to the parking of containers, a

matter which was recently discharged by the courts in favour of the businesses against City Hall. “It is not only about parking but also with the traversing of the roadway,” she said. She confirmed that a $25,000 was being asked per container to operate on the roadway. LAW DOES NOT APPLY Attorney, Robert Hanoman noted that the section of the law being enforced by City Hall does not apply to penalties being charged per container. He said the section in question “is vague, uncertain” and

Barricades outside one of the Water Street wharves

cannot be enforced by a court of law. Hanoman said that Muneshwers will seek legal advice and let the courts pronounce on the issue. He advised that the company should “not pay at this stage.” According to Hanoman, the containers should be allowed on the roadway until the matter is decided by the courts. “We would take legal action,” he said. Meanwhile, the Town Clerk noted that inspection by engineers at City Hall determined the need to “begin urgent works to some of the roadways.” He said that the access roads to industrial sites area are an example of the

damage done by the heavy vehicles. “What we are trying to do is save these roads from further deterioration and further erosion”, King said. He added that fatigue by some of the heavy-duty single axle vehicles and container carriers are being looked at by the City Council with the view of seeking to restrict their use of the roadways in the city. Shortly after 13:30h, this publication observed the heavy vehicles operating into John Fernandes Limited comp o u n d a l o n g Wa t e r Street. Persons there noted that the vehicles were allowed in after the issue was discussed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Trump campaign denies Melania plagiarism allegations (BBC) - THE Trump campaign has denied allegations that Melania Trump plagiarised her speech at the Republican National Convention. Staff said there was no evidence Mrs Trump had lifted passages from a 2008 speech by First Lady Michelle Obama. The plagiarism accusation loomed large on Tuesday as the convention entered its second day. Mr Trump is expected to be formally nominated as the Republican Party’s presidential candidate. A last-ditch effort by anti-Trump delegates to hold a vote that would have allowed them to back a candidate of their choices failed on Monday. Mrs Trump and campaign staffers have given mixed messages on who wrote the speech. She told NBC’s Matt Lauer that she wrote it with some help from others, but the Trump campaign said in

Melania Trump a statement shortly following the speech on Monday that “Melania’s team of writers took notes on her life’s aspirations, and in some instances included fragments that reflected her own thinking”. The speech controversy has been “totally blown out of proportion,” said Trump adviser Paul Manafort. “They’re not even sentences. They’re literally phrases. I was impressed that somebody did their home-

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work to think that could be possibly done.” Republican National Committee chairman Reince Preibus said he “probably” would have fired speechwriters if the same thing had happened to him, but he also called the controversy a “distraction”. Mr Trump’s son Donald Jr said of Mrs Trump’s speech that there were probably people who “should have cleaned it up better”.

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Turkey coup: Purge widens to education sector

(BBC) - MORE than 15,000 education staff in Turkey have been suspended after last week’s failed coup, as a purge of state officials widens still further. The ministry of education accused them of links to Fethullah Gulen, a US-based cleric the Turkish government says was behind Friday’s uprising. Mr Gulen denies any involvement. More than 1,500 university deans have also been ordered to resign and the licences of 21,000 teachers working at private institutions revoked. Prime Minister Binali Yildirim vowed to take action against Mr Gulen’s supporters. “I’m sorry but this parallel terrorist organisation will no longer be an effective pawn for any country,” Mr Yildirim said, according to Reuters news agency.

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A religious school in Istanbul - education staff have been purged after the coup, along with the army and the judiciary “We will dig them up by their roots so that no clandestine terrorist organisation will have the nerve to betray our blessed people again.” The US said it had received documents on Mr Gulen from Turkey

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and was reviewing them to see if they constituted a formal extradition request, as Turkey has said it will seek. Turkey’s media regulation body on Tuesday also revoked the licenses of 24 radio and TV channels accused of links to Mr Gulen. The country’s Religious Affairs Directorate has banned religious funerals for supporters of the attempted coup, the Anadolu news agency reported. Meanwhile it has emerged that the army first received intelligence a coup was under way at 16:00 local time (13:00 GMT) on Friday, hours before a rogue faction deployed tanks and targeted key infrastructure. The General Staff said in a statement it alerted the relevant authorities, adding that the majority of members had nothing to do with the coup.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

WhatsApp suspended in Brazil Mexico president apologises for wife’s house purchase

(BBC) - WhatsApp was temporarily suspended in Brazil after a judge said the company had failed to hand over information requested in a criminal investigation. The third suspension in two years lasted for a few hours, affecting millions of users. But Supreme Court judge Ricardo Lewandowski later lifted the nationwide blockage, saying it was disproportionate. WhatsApp said they did not have access to the details requested. The most recent suspension happened in May, and forced 100 million people to turn to alternative services - a huge proportion of the internet-using population in a country with some of the world’s highest mobile

phone charges. In March, a Facebook executive was detained overnight for failing to comply with an attempt to block WhatsApp. A Whatsapp spokesperson had said: “As we’ve said in the past we cannot share information we don’t have access to. “Indiscriminate steps like these threaten people’s ability to communicate, to run their businesses, and to live their lives.” Correspondents said it was the latest clash in a battle between tech firms and judicial systems over how to collaborate in criminal investigations without compromising individual freedoms - like in the dispute between Apple and the FBI over access to the phone of

the San Bernardino gunman. Twitter users responded with frustration - and, in many cases, with humour: End-to-end encryption introduced in April - is a key advantage touted by WhatsApp. In its website’s frequently asked questions, it says: “Privacy and security is in our DNA, which is why we have end-to-end encryption in the latest versions of our app... [This] ensures only you and the person you’re communicating with can read what is sent, and nobody in between, not even WhatsApp.” Technology commentators suggest the regular interruptions to service could dent WhatsApp’s popularity.

A huge proportion of Brazil’s online population use WhatsApp - partly because making mobile calls is expensive

(BBC) - MEXICAN President Enrique Pena Nieto has apologised for a scandal involving his wife’s purchase two years ago of a $7m house from a government contractor. Mr Pena Nieto said it had damaged people’s faith in the presidency. He said he had not broken the law and promised to redouble efforts to fight corruption. Mr Pena Nieto’s party, the PRI, suffered severe losses in recent local elections. He was addressing political leaders at the unveiling of a new anti-corruption system that increases the monitoring of politicians. Mr Pena Nieto is facing presidential elections in 2018. In an unusually frank apology, he said the scandal had damaged the Mexican people’s faith in the presidency and the government.For this reason,

President with all humility I ask your forgiveness.” “I repeat my sincere and profound apology for the offence and indignation I have caused you.” Mr Pena Nieto had reacted angrily at the time when he and his wife were criticised for buying the luxury home from Grupo Higa, a major government contractor. His wife, Angelica Rivera, denied wrongdoing and

Pena Nieto said she had bought the house with earnings from her career as an actress. She later returned the mansion, which she had been paying for in instalments. It emerged later that Mr Pena Nieto’s finance minister had also bought a house from the same contractor. A government investigation later found no evidence of wrongdoing.

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

Examining nationhood

To put to any Guyanese the question, “what is nationhood” one is bound to come up with several answers. And this is OK, given that nationhood means different things to different people at different moments in their lives and based on their experiences. To ask a Guyanese how he or she sees self and prefers to be identified that too will result in varied answers. The sense of patriotism that exemplifies a nation and creates in its people that sense of nationhood is a complex issue. Even though complex it is not difficult to pin down and work to make real in the sense of belongingness that would create the impetus to want to protect, build, and defend what’s yours. But what is nationhood? There are several definitions and theories of this concept, with all carrying a common thread that is best exemplified in the online “yourdictionary. com” which says “nationhood is the state of being a nation, or a large group of people united by common language, culture or economic life.” The history of Guyana as we know it, though originally occupied by our Amerindian brothers and sisters, was later to be a slave, indentured and colonised society for European powers. All whom were subject to European dictates were treated as unequal in the socio-economic political order which was sustained on a divide-and rule- policy. The struggle by the subjugated that resulted in the achievement of independence/self-government in 1966 set in place the establishment of efforts to institute a way of life in a common space, built on common experiences, and common aspirations. The resulting effect was the acceptance of local universal laws, common language and the forging of common culture that incorporated the cultural experiences of the diverse groups. For instance though English has been acknowledged as the official language, it would seen it incorporates the languages of all groups. It should be said though Guyana identifies English as it official language as English, there is acknowledgement in formal identification of other spoken languages such as creole, Urdu, Amerindian tribal languages, etc. The culture of a society is seen through holistic lens, i.e. the lived experiences of its people. Where this society, though diverse in heritage, came out of common historical experiences of marginalisation and oppression of the majority, the fusion of all into ensuring common acceptance of our humanness and equality has been made possible through laws and institutions such as an indigenous education system, national calendar that gives recognition to major events of the ethnic groups, and a set of values that

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Building the workforce of tomorrow

REFERRING to it as a “shared responsibility”, the Expert Panel set up by the Premier of Ontario, Canada, recently reported on how to prepare workers for the jobs of today and tomorrow, especially the critical ‘knowledge- and technology-based’ jobs. The Report identified six (6) key areas for serious consideration and relevant action. I itemize these below for consideration by our own Guyanese policy makers with the hope that they find some resonance with them which would hopefully lead to more concerted local intervention and action: 1. Building stronger partnership between educators & employers: Employers, educators, labour leaders and

governmental functionaries should work together to find solutions for experiential learning and competency development and to address mismatches between demand for and supply of the required skills. 2. Increasing access to job market information: The relevant functionaries/agencies must work together for the creation of a national system to give employers and job-seekers better access to information about current and future job openings and anticipated skills requirements. 3. Expanding opportunities for learning by experience: Encourage and fund more student placements so that every student completes at least one ‘experiential

learning opportunity’ before graduating from Secondary School and another during tertiary education. 4. Promoting traditional and non-traditional career paths: Increase students’ exposure to various options in the arts, sciences, engineering, technology, skilled trades as well as entrepreneurship. 5. Investing in human capital: Launch programs to support training in the workplace and encourage large employers to share successful training programs with small and medium-sized enterprises. 6. Closing gaps in skills and competencies: Find ways to teach and recognize the skills that students must learn such as teamwork, problem

solving, personal relationships, entrepreneurial spirit; also develop programs for groups which are under-represented in the workplace to allow them better access to employment opportunities. Guyana’s Ministries of Education and Labour (oops, I am still not au fait with the new name!), Trade Unions, Employers and Employers’ Organizations, Boards of Industrial, Technical & Vocational Training and Institutions of higher learning should consider the above pointers with a view to deciding how relevant and useful they might be for our own situation and needs. NOWRANG PERSAUD

KN continues its campaign of untruths Dear Editor,

SUNDAY’s edition of the Kaieteur News carried a headline stating that the PPP/C Government accounted for only US$15 million out of the more-than US$400 million received under the PetroCaribe arrangement. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. As has been explained umpteen times, the financing received under PetroCaribe was used for two perfectly legitimate purposes. Firstly, PetroCaribe financing was used to fund certain projects, all of which were reflected in the national budget over successive years. These included investments in GPL (including Kingston and Vreed-en-Hoop), the Northern Relief Chan-

nel (Hope Canal), and the Housing Fund. As at the end of 2014, these investments amounted to over US$140 million, and were fully reflected in the national budget estimates of expenditure presented each year to the National Assembly. Secondly, after the rice trade arrangement was concluded, the PetroCaribe financing was used to purchase rice and paddy to be shipped to Venezuela. Under this arrangement, PetroCaribe financing would be used to purchase rice and paddy, and Venezuela and Guyana would periodically reconcile the value of rice and paddy shipped; and based on this reconciliation, conclude a debt compensation agreement under which PetroCaribe debt equivalent to the value of rice

umbrella the nation’s uniqueness in the world and its people’s dreams and aspirations. To Guyana’s credit ours is a tri-sector economy, where equal respect is given to the role of government, private sector, and cooperative in carving out and executing their economic interests consistent with the laws governing their conduct. The sense of who we are as people, or rather our patriotic flavour are noted in institutions such as the military, system of governance, symbols exemplified in the coat of arms, national anthem and songs, folklore, cuisine, dress, values and so forth. It is the appreciation of these, the desire to advance, defend and protect same at all cost that often determine and test the level of patriotism. When the above are woven into an education system-formal and informal- that is not only geared to create literate people for the workforce but also empowered to recognise and appreciate the country’s values, stages in its evolution, the contributions of all its peoples, why we do the things we do, along with preparing citizens to collectively confront the requirements and challenges needed to protect, defend and

and paddy shipped would be written off by Venezuela. As of last year, six such agreements were concluded at a total value of over US$550 million, reflecting the total amount of PetroCaribe funds used to purchase rice and paddy that were shipped to Venezuela under this arrangement up to that time. In keeping with the highest standards of public accountability, all six of these agreements have been tabled in the National Assembly. In light of the fact that the public record reflects over US$140 million of PetroCaribe proceeds being used for projects that were fully reflected in successive national budgets, and over US$550 million being used to purchase paddy and rice shipped to Venezuela as evi-

denced by debt compensation agreements concluded with Venezuela and tabled in the National Assembly, the suggestion by KN on Sunday that the PPP/C Government accounted for only US$15 million is absurd. The campaign of lies, distortions and half-truth peddled against the PPP/C while in office continues today. The military bureaucratic elite that runs this country should begin to focus on economic and social progress, instead of its concentration on witch- hunting and attempting to denigrate PPP/C ministers and others in the executive. And Kaieteur News needs to become professional in its reporting. Former president DONALD RAMOTAR

develop country, nationhood is being practiced. As Guyanese observe and admire nationhood as displayed in other countries and the diaspora seek to identify with the nationhood of their adoptive country, such is invariably informed by the very thing taken for granted or ignored here. That is, if a people know not from whence they came, or are made to feel they have played or can play no significant role in a land that that gave them birth, or the system works for some, trample and shut out others with seemingly no recourse to change course, alienation steps in. When alienation steps in, people lose the essence of appreciating their existence in the given place and see no need to stand up, work for, defend and protect a country that they feel has betrayed or let them down. The fundamentals of this nation are strong, its foundation laid, the stories of these must be told and exemplified ever so often in ensuring that sense of belongingness as Guyanese, irrespective of diversity. It is the commonness of our history, survival, and desired pursuit for development that must propel us forward in strengthening our nationhood.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Unanswered questions

Dear Editor,

I HAVE written several letters in relation to the businesses I have conducted. I did receive responses, but low and behold, the responses never answered the questions posed.

1. Gregg Pin – The British High Commissioner 2. H. Gadraj – Demerara Bank Trust Company 3. T. Williams – Demerara Bank Trust Company 4. Pamela Briggs – Customer Manager/Customer Director, GTT Company Ltd 5. Joan Humphrey – Scotia Bank 6. Adele Farrier – Scotia Bank

The letters written were on letterheads stating the qualifications which I obtained, and they are true and correct, save I must also mention that there is no suffix to denote a failed and except the M.A and PHD. However, none of the responses Attorney-at-law, a trial and error Attorney-at-law, or a Barriswhich I have received had a suffix after the signatures, nor had ter-at-law or Solicitor. the letterheads any prefix or suffix before or after their names. CHRISTOPHER THOMPSON The following persons I speak of:

Clinic closed with immediate effect Dear Editor,

I WISH to say “Thank You” to all the people who have journeyed with me over the last 50 years. Due to ill health, the time has now come for me to hang up my stethoscope. “Thank You” to my family, friends and many patients over my 50 years of medical practice,

starting in the land of wood and water and Usain Bolt, travelling through the hills and valleys of Barbados, moving into the panelled walls of Yale in the United States of America; the sombre grey of Hammersmith, England; into the rugged North West of Guyana, the mighty Essequibo, through Berbice and the Corentyne Coast, and then

finally Georgetown. I express my appreciation to all my nurses, receptionists and ancillary staff who served along with me; and wish to advise that patients should contact Dr. Luis Pedro about their records, and for referrals for future medical care. Thank you all, and God bless you all. It was my priv-

ilege to serve you. DR. GLADSTONE MITCHELL

Can somebody please help us? Dear Editor,

PLEASE publish this article: I have a container at the wharf for now one month, and I still cannot complete the paperwork to take possession of my cargo. I have therefore cancelled importation of the four cars I had intended to bring to this country. My broker is there every day, running around with no one to talk to and no proper information forthcoming. Storage fees are accumulating every day; the last time I had imported a container I had experienced the same problem and had to pay $183,000 storage fees. Can somebody please advise me who to go to or where to turn to get help? My declaration number is C28422. We were asked to do “part and parcel”, then to write a letter to somebody in authority. Our documents were handed in to a Mr. Khan, then we heard the documents were on the desk of one Desiree Clement; now we hear the documents are on the desk of some commissioner. We cannot understand why a car that is 8 years old cannot be brought into the country; one of these cars was manufactured in June 2008. Thank you, Mr Editor, for your cooperation. Yours truly ZAKIR ALLY

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

The talkers and doers I HAVE been thinking a lot lately about public discourse, the things that drive it, the changes that come out of it and how, too often, it seems, as if we are a country of talkers rather than doers. We hopscotch around every major issue, staying on it just long enough for something more interesting, or something that gains more traction, to come along. I am not saying that speaking out or calling a spade a spade is not an integral part of change and raising awareness on certain social ills, government policies and blunders, because it is. But what happens when sparse talks fail? And how do we keep the pressure

up on something that the majority have already commented upon and moved on from? Ours has been a society -- from our president, politicians and everyone down the line -- of talkers rather than doers. How else do we explain away the fact that despite promises that marijuana would be decriminalised so that youths found with small amounts can stop going to jail, and that those belonging to the LBGT group will no longer have a law which discriminates against them, the status quo still remains, with no clear movement towards changing it? What talking does is make us feel as if we are

making progress, while actually leaving us at a standstill on actual changes. We, in fact, too often miss the second part of the equation, the part which requires us to come out of our shells of being ‘social media warriors’ and begin to stand up for the things we know should not be, yet twiddle our thumbs and continue to allow it, merely because that was how it has always been. I have realised that, for the most part, I am a part of the problem; I have been content to sit on the sidelines, talk and try to point people in the right direction, shaking my head and doing nothing else when they fail to pick up the mantle. I have contributed, like so many of you, to the cy-

clical inactivity on issues which need urgent attention, often forgetting the old adage, “actions speak louder than words” in the process. So, I have decided to come out of my comfort zone, and I am currently trying to become a “doer”, because my individual rantings, much like others, honestly do not make much of a difference in themselves. For example, let’s address Guyana and it’s archaic, out-of-place dress code for so many government buildings and institutions. It is something which has hampered men and women over decades from going about their respective business, but we have become so conditioned to

believe that the government should dictate what one wears and say who is appropriately attired that we hardly even see the issue with it anymore, with some of us even diligently defending it. I always laugh whenever someone says we are no longer a colonised people or something to that effect, because there is more to freedom than just being technically free. If your mind is still what your colonisers conditioned it to be, then who’s to say anything has substantially changed? It is for this desire to be free and no longer be a talker that myself along with others are organising a protest against Guyana’s dress code. Whether it will

make a difference or not is unclear, but what I do know is that it is time to get off of the sidelines and become active in trying to bring about change. In a country filled with conventional political cronyism, corruption and colonialised mentalities which work to upend and infringe on freedoms allowed to everyone, it is becoming increasingly clear the role that acting plays in keeping people on their toes. Words are good, yes, but too often they are merely spoken to make the speaker feel good that they have contributed, which is simply giving lip service to a cause, without actually trying to make a change.

Egbert Fields appointed GCAA Director-General LIEUTENANT Colonel (Ret’d) Egbert Fields has been appointed Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, and will assume the posi-

tion from August 1, 2016, according to GCCA sources. Fields was highlighted as a possible candidate for the Director-General post of the

GCCA earlier this year, as he is quite adept in this field. Fields, known as ‘Eggy’, has several years of experience in the aviation field where he served as a pilot in

the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), an inspector with the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System (CASSOS), as flight operations and oversight manager of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority and transnational inspector for the Regional Aviation Safety Oversight. The post of Director-General became vacant after Zulficar Mohamed retired

in May last year. Since then, Chitrani Heralall assumed the role of Director-General (acting). Heralall was also another potential candidate for this position alongside Fields and about three other candidates. However Heralall will be assuming another senior position at another location while Fields will take up the Director-General position in the GCAA. A newly reconfigured and

reintroduced Board of the GCAA had set appointing a Director-General as one of its priorities during its two-year tenure. Attempts to contact Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson and Junior Minster of Public Infrastructure Annette Ferguson for a comment on this matter proved futile as numerous phone calls went unanswered.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Egbert Fields (second right) will be the new Director-General of the GCCA from August 1st

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Source reveals ...

Conditions at Veterans’ Home ‘prison-like’

“A PRISON-like atmosphere” were the words used to describe the state of affairs at the National Veterans Rest Home at Lamaha Springs, North Ruimveldt. The Home, opened in 2011, houses some 11 retired officers from the joint services. Some of those residents are in wheelchairs or unable to walk. A source close to the Home, who spoke on condition of anonymity, is calling for a change in administration, and a shift in the institution’s care-giving policy. “Elderly people need care and compassion,” he said, adding that this is not the case at the home. The facility is unnecessarily padlocked, and relatives of residents have been turned away at the gate for visiting outside of a very limited visitation period. There is even a report of a high-profile religious leader being turned away at the gate, and residents have been stripped of their freedom to move.

RAMPANT THEFT Theft remains a major concern for senior citizens of the Home who have fallen victim over the last two years. This was reported to the Home’s Board of Directors but with little satisfaction. The residents, according to the source, have all pointed to a female care-giver who seems to be the common denominator whenever there is a reported theft. Reports are that six bottles of cologne, a DVD player, and a lump-sum of $115,000 has gone missing from residents in separate incidents over the past two years. That care-giver, the source said, has threatened the life of residents of the Home on numerous occasions, saying that she handles their food, and could “get rid of them”. The very care-giver has worked at the Home for some three years, and, according to the source, was previously employed with the Georgetown Post-Master General’s Office, where she was allegedly dismissed on accusations of theft. Residents are calling for the removal of the care-giver, but this seems far from reality, since the care-giver in question has found favour

––Board members lax on reports of theft, neglect

The Veterans Home at Essequibo Street and Kamarang Drive in Lamaha Springs (Photo by Adrian Narine) with the Home’s administration. “She can’t do wrong in their eyes,” the source bemoaned. The former administrator of the Home, Margaret Rose-Arthur, was removed from her post some time ago, because it was felt she was not carrying the programme well. Rose-Arthur was reportedly close with the female care-giver, even while reports were being made against that care-giver. HIGHLY FAVOURED And although the Board had removed Rose-Arthur for matters presumably related to the complaints by residents, the care-giver remains employed. Rose-Arthur, a retired officer of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), has served as the Home’s Administrator since it was opened in 2011 by then President Bharrat Jagdeo. That position is still to be filled, but according to our source, residents of the Home were previously threatened with eviction by the administration, especially in cases where persons protested the conditions at the Home. The source painted a grim nexus between the conditions at the Home and the psychological well-being of the elderly persons housed there. “Residents could give up living, because they feel

there is no purpose in life,” the source said. There are currently no recreational activities at the Home, and residents would simply retire to their beds after breakfast, because there is nothing else to do. “When you lie down in your bed, you do so with the thought that death will come one day,” the source said solemnly. POLICY REVIEW The source said there is need for a rethinking of how the elderly is catered for all across the country, and that policy should not be limited to senior citizens’ homes controlled by the State. “There is tremendous neglect of the elderly in this country,” the source added. They complained of meals which are not conducive to the expected diet of an elderly person, whose body can no longer handle foods high in protein, carbohydrates, and sugar. The source is calling for the Social Protection Ministry to become involved in the day-to-day affairs of the Home, and to look into a planned recreational programme. Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence, in the wake of the deadly Drop-In Centre fire which claimed the lives of two children, plugged the need for more attention to be given to se-

nior citizens homes controlled by the State. This is especially needed in the area of fire prevention, and safety protocols to pre-

vent deaths in the event of a fire. Persons with impaired mobility are extremely vulnerable in the event of a fire. The source is calling

for a reorganization of the administration of the home, with a Board that is responsive to the needs of the elderly.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Edinburgh man charged with damaging police toilet

MARVIN Chesney of Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice has agreed to pay the sum of $30,000 as value for the toilet set he broke while being detained at the Sisters Police Station lockups, EBB on January 27 last.

The defendant told Sisters Magistrate Alex Moore on Tuesday that he had been detained at the New Amsterdam Prison for three matters, two of which have been dismissed. He asked to be given time to raise the money to pay for the

broken toilet bowl. The magistrate, perusing the court docket, noted that the matter was to have been settled since April, and enquired about the delay. Chesney declared that he had been incarcerated at the time of the incident, and so

could not have lived up to his commitment. However, he said there is no need for a trial, as he would somehow find the money to pay. The case did not go to

trial because the magistrate gave the defendant until August 26 to pay the required sum or serve three months’ imprisonment on default.

Chesney has, however, been further detained as the police continue their investigations into a matter involving three minors.

Brothers given touching... From page 2 the same time. She urged the Georges to keep trusting God, for He only has the answer. Recalling that even though he had escaped the burning building, one brother had run back inside to save his sibling, Minister Lawrence commented that this ‘ultimate act of love’ demonstrated by one sibling for another is an example for everyone to follow. “He has left us a message… We need to work diligently. Our mandate is to protect our children, and we should not shirk from that responsibility,” she said. Tributes were also delivered by relatives of the George family: Myrna Grant; Rawle Harry and Jean-Ann Harry, with a moving tribute in song; “Gone Too Soon” by relative Jo Ann Forde; and a representative of Head Start Nursery School, which little used to attend. In her tribute, Jean-Ann Harry thanked Minister Lawrence and the staff of the Min-

parents. Antonio, the fourth child, would fondly be remembered, Jean Ann said, as the “eat man” who was working towards admission to the “Food College”. However, he’d aspired to one day become a lawyer, and indeed was always at the forefront representing his older siblings. He was a very loving child, but one who would always fearlessly fight off anyone who seemed a threat to his family members. To this end, she recalls that his ambition was to write the NGSA exam, move on to the Bishops’ High School, and one day become a lawyer. Recalling that Antonio was said to have run back into the fire to save his brother, when they both perished, Jean-Ann remarked: “Joshua and Antonio have been robbed of the opportunity of growing up to become fruitful members of our society, but they must not only be remembered as ‘the boys who died in the fire’, but as boys whose deaths brought about a change in how we view the plight of poverty; how

During the Thanksgiving Service istry of Social Protection; and indeed the caregivers, for their dedicated work at the Child Care Centres. She thanked everyone for attending the funeral and for the great outpouring of love and sympathy. “Losing a child is a parent’s worst nightmare,” she said, noting that she could not put into words the grief that was being felt for the loss of the two precious lives. Giving a background on her two deceased cousins, she remembered Joshua, the third of three children, as being playful and energetic. He always showed a sense of responsibility, and took pride in taking on the role of a leader whenever he was placed in a group. He cooperated fully with his siblings, and was always respectful to his

we support those in need, as family members, as neighbours, as a community and a country at large.” Rawle and Myrna Harry attested to the fact that Sonia, despite her circumstances and the conditions under which she existed, was not brought up that way, but had the benefit of a decent life until she left the family’s homestead. Myrna, in no uncertain terms, admonished the grieving mother, who is said to have suffered at the hands of her reputed husband. “Now is not the time for you to be taking orders; it’s time for you to stand up and make demands…” she said as she urged her to have faith in God.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

CDC sets up ‘early warning’ facility in Region Three

THE Civil Defence Commission (CDC) continues to implement Regional Disaster Risk Management Systems (RDRMS) across Guyana, with Region Three being the latest beneficiary. An RDRMS was established during a two-day event that opened yesterday at the Regional Democratic Council boardroom,

Vreed-en-Hoop. In his opening remarks, Regional Vice- Chairman, Sheik Inshan Ayube explained that the RDRS is necessary, since it is critical for the region to have preparedness and response plans in place to quickly respond to disasters. Ayube noted that Guyana is at a risk for many disasters, but these systems

are put in place to educate and inform key players “to at least minimise these disasters.” He noted that for the region to respond quickly and effectively to disasters, awareness and preparation are critical. He commended the implementation of the RDRMS, and encouraged the participants to be aware and prepared for disasters. At yesterday’s workshop at the Region Three RDC office at Vreed-en-Hoop “We are caught up with our daily lives, ensuring that we are safe,” he said. “But we must also be aware that disasters can happen anytime. So it is necessary for us to also strive to keep our country safe.” CDC Director-General, Colonel (Ret’d) Chabilall Ramsarup, while delivering brief remarks, endorsed the words of encouragement from Ayube. He added that index disaster management is important, because “we don’t want to lose our lives from disasters.” Ramsarup explained that there are persons who are affected by heavy rainfall though it is the hottest time of the year. “Those persons in Region Five suffered great loss from the recent flood, because there was not an effective RDRMS in place in the region,” he explained. The aim of this event is to therefore have systems in place to address those issues, so that all the regions in Guyana are prepared, the CDC head explained. “Everyone must know their roles and responsibilities, since training was already done. We cannot allow a repeat of the 2005 flood.” Ramsarup believes that there is nothing greater than being fully prepared when disasters strike. The CDC head pointed out that climate change is heavily responsible for most of the disasters in the country, since it affects mining, and agriculture infrastructure

among other areas. “We all need to play our part in keeping Guyana safe from disasters,” Ramsarup urged. Manager, Preparedness and Response Unit, CDC, Major Sean Welcome, and representatives from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC), Ministry of Communities, Health Centres, National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) were all in attendance. The participants were educated on preparedness activities, and declaring a disaster, preparedness and response functions, roles and responsibilities and emergency operations centre. In the first week in August, the event will be taken to Region Six, and by the end of August, with funding from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), work will commence in Regions Nine and Ten to establish RDRMS, after which they will head to the other administrative regions. High-Frequency Radios will be installed in Orealla, Siparuni, Region Six and Moraikobai, Region Five as part of strengthening the regional mechanism to help with early warning. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

The ‘sugar daddy’ syndrome By Karen Allen IT is a frostily cold morning in the outskirts of Johannesburg. Children aged between six and 17 are queuing up for their “morning meds”, shivering their greetings to the nurse assigned to supervise them. It’s now part of their daily routine before they skip off into the yard and get bussed off to school. These youngsters are a walking, breathing, living

lemon and garlic instead to protect themselves. TIMES CHANGED But times have changed. Dramatically. South Africa reviewed its position in the face of international criticism. “At least now the children have treatment, and more importantly they have life,” says a sanguine Gail Johnson, the founder of a refuge for HIV-positive children created in the memory of the little boy

This billboard speaks volumes testimony to South Africa’s shameful past. When a minority in the leadership allowed politics to overshadow science and refused to accept the potent reality of HIV/AIDS, it delayed the rollout of preventative treatment, and exposed tens of thousands of newborns to disease. Most of the youngsters popping their pills were infected in the womb. When the rest of the world was rolling out a drug called Nevirapine to reduce the chances of mothers transmitting the virus to their offspring, elements within the South African leadership famously advised patients to use

she fostered called Nkosi Johnson. Her 11-year-old son’s impassioned plea during the last big AIDS conference here 16 years ago, to stop stigmatising people with HIV, moved the world to tears. It marked a line in the sand, and South Africa now has the most extensive anti-retroviral treatment programme in the world. Youngsters like Sanele -- a slightly built 20-yearold from Soweto who grew up in Nkosi’s Haven orphanage and lost most of his family to AIDS -- are now far less likely to be infected at birth. “I never asked to be

infected with this disease... At times I rebelled. I said: ‘Why me?’” he says. But he is now reconciled to his fate, is well controlled on his medication, and wants to be a role

model to other young people like Nkosi, who died shortly after his famous speech, deprived of AIDS drugs. Sanele is now completing his higher school certificate, and dreams

of becoming a computer engineer. ‘INTERGENERATIONAL SEX’ Rates of mother-tochild transmission have

fallen by more than 50% since 2009, thanks to an aggressive programme of testing and treatment, which has been rolled out See page 16

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

IMF team to assess VAT to determine reduction A TEAM comprising experts from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is due in Guyana next month to assess the Value Added Tax (VAT) and recommendations made by the Tax Reform Committee set up by the APNU + AFC government. In an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan said, “notwithstanding what the Tax Reform Committee said, and notwithstanding the clamour for the reduction in VAT, I have asked the IMF and they have agreed and the team is to come in August to do an assessment of the Value Added Tax.” Minister Jordan said that after they would have completed their assessment “we will take a look, and we will make a determination on what reduction is feasible and when this reduction can take place.” The Government in late 2015 had established the Tax Reform Committee headed by Dr. Maurice Odle. The committee’s mandate was to examine the country’s taxation system and make recommendations for fixing it. The committee had reported its findings to the Minister of Finance in January 2016, a time described by the minister as too late to have the recommendations included in the 2016 budget. However, “Notwithstanding that, we had anticipated some of the measures in the Tax Committee’s report and they were actually implemented in the 2016 budget,” the Minister said. Among the recommendations of the Tax Reform Committee were an income tax threshold of $750,000 with progressive rates of taxation from 20% to 35%, reintroduction of estate duties and levies on tobacco and alcohol. In the last budget the income tax threshold was increased to $660,000 from $600,000. Meanwhile steps are underway to formulate a Bill for the control of tobacco. Further, the Minister

said the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has been approached for its input on the recommended tax reforms. “What I have caused GRA to do is to go through the report with a fine tooth comb, split it up into the various sections and come up with recommendations on the feasibility of some of what have been recommended so that we could

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan have a discussion in Cabinet and make a determination, whether or not they get into the 2017 budget. The tax reform committee did recommendations that span two years …not just 2017.” Among the recommendations of the Tax Reform Committee were a reduction of VAT from 16 percent to 14 percent, the introduction of an intermediate rate of seven percent, a reduction of the number of items on the VAT exempt list and a widening of the tax net by reducing the minimum taxable amount from $10M to $5M, Minister Jordan said. Meanwhile President David Granger on an edition of the programme “the Public’s Interest” had said it was perhaps hasty on the part of the then opposition (APNU+AFC) to promise a reduction on the VAT rate during their first year in office when they had inadequate information on what they would find when they assumed office.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Good for the economy –Minister schools workshop on merits of public procurement

IT IS important that focus be placed on procurement, because procurement represents a significant part of the national economy, since the public purchase of goods and services has been estimated to account for a significant portion of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This statement was made by Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma during an address at a one-day sensitisation workshop yesterday at the Herdmanston Lodge, Georgetown. The workshop, which was funded by the European Union (EU), was aimed at sensitising stakeholders on public procurement. Minister Sharma told participants, “It is important that we focus on procurement in Guyana, because procurement is a stimulus to the economy.” The Minister further explained, “Public procurement represents a substantial share of world trade in relation to the European Union, and that public procurement represents a significant part of the national economy, since public purchase of goods and services in Guyana has been estimated to account for 27 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), based on our 2015 budget.” “The European Union/ Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) Economic Trade Partnership (ETP) and the funding from the tenth and eleventh European Development Fund (EDF) are very important because Guyana is opening its public procurement markets to international competition,” the minister stated. The Minister noted that opening public procurement to international com-

petition “is a powerful tool to fight corrupt practices in public procurement contracts.” Among the benefits identified by the Minister are government’s enhanced ability to obtain better value for money, increased transparency, legal certainty and the increased efficient use of public resources. Procurement specialists from both the public and private sectors were challenged by the Minister to make their businesses more competitive since public procurement “constitutes considerable international business opportunities, and once the local market is opened to international competition, Guyanese companies will face stiffer competition.” Minister Sharma identified Government’s aggressive pursuit of the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission, outlining steps taken by the government to aid in the local procurement sector by increasing the various limits at the level of the various tender boards starting from the Ministerial board, and continuing to the national and regional tender boards. Additionally, there is Cabinet’s consideration of a proposal to increase the number of evaluators that are available to government whenever a contract is to be awarded. Citing the importance of transparency and the unbiased award of contracts, the Minister said, “The bid protest committee would allow those contractors that are not happy with the evaluation to make an objection within a stipulated time frame and that process as you know has already attracted at least one contractor.”

The Minister was at the time referring to a recent situation surrounding the award of a contract for the management of the Haag’s Bosch Sanitary Landfill. C E V O N ’ s Wa s t e Management has protested the award of the contract to Puran Brothers Disposal Incorporated. (GINA)

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The ‘sugar daddy’... 16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016 From page 13

across South Africa. But the country faces a new threat: The staggering number of young people here under the age of 24 becoming newly infected with HIV. In any one week, 2,700 young men and women aged 1524 become infected with HIV, according to figures released by UNAIDS. Young South African women are particularly at risk, and are getting infected in higher numbers due to a complex range of factors, including economic and gender inequality, family breakdown, and the practice of younger women

having sex with older men. This is the so-called “sugar daddy” syndrome, or what the experts call “inter-generational sex”. It explains why, in some places, young women are three times more likely to be infected with HIV than young men. A new word which captures this arrangement is a “blesser”, used to describe an older man who will offers gifts to a younger woman for sex. South Africa’s Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi recently embraced the term when he unveiled a new programme seeking to tackle the alarming number of adoles-

cent infections. As well as addressing problems with gender violence, he said the programme aims “to keep girls at school for as long as possible, and create job opportunities for them so they can reduce their dependence upon men.” ‘NOT SPOKEN ABOUT’ HIV/AIDS has exposed the complex social dynamics in South Africa, and treatment alone is clearly not the answer for reaching the holy grail of an AIDS-free generation. One of the challenges that young people face is stigma. Sanele is one of the few courageous young South Africans to have declared his HIV status to his friend and his girlfriend. “When I told her, she didn’t believe me; she thought I was messing around but eventually she talked to my family and realised it was true and she got used to it. We are still together today.” But he admits that when you are out on the street, “it is not spoken about”. Stigma and ignorance about HIV persists in South Africa, despite concerted efforts at public information campaigns. Sanele looks like any ordinary young man, enjoys his football, and is clearly not dying. Yet, an estimated 400 people die in South Africa every single day of HIV-related illnesses, either because they don’t seek help early on, or default on their treatment. That message -- that you can still die from the AIDS virus -- is somehow getting lost, he believes. South Africa is not alone. More than two million adolescents around the world are living with HIV, according to UNICEF. Most of them are in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. It still remains the biggest cause of death among young people in Africa, and the number of lives lost in this group has tripled in the past 16 years. Little wonder, then, that the issue is likely to dominate debate when AIDS experts reconvene in Durban,to assess the progress since the last conference. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Gov’t confirms Region 6 REO granted leave –– did not abandon post as alleged

THE Ministry of Communities has confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday that approval has been granted for Regional Executive Officer (REO) of

Dr. Veerasammy Ramayya

Region 6, Dr. Veerasammy Ramayya, to proceed on 14 days’ vacation leave, effective from July 18, 2016 to July 30, 2016; and resume duties on August 2, 2016. In the Tuesday edition of this publication, Region Six Vice Chairman Mr Dennis De Roop is reported to have alleged that Dr Ramayya had ceased performing the duties of REO without formally resigning from the position. He reportedly told reporters in a press briefing at the Regional Chairman’s Office at Vryman’s Erven in New Amsterdam: “The region got a setback now, we having a little confusion: the REO has left; I must say he walk off the job. There is no correspondence to say he is on leave (and) there is no approval

Mason charged with recruiting cocaine trafficker TWENTY-YEAR-OLD mason Shamar Morris of Lot 60 Durban Street, Lodge appeared on Tuesday before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, charged with allegedly recruiting 26-year-old Patrima Nima Isaacs to traffic 698 grams of cocaine out of Guyana between March 1 and July 3. Ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) were able to implicate Morris after Isaacs had been busted at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) with the drugs concealed in the handles of her handbag and in the form of sanitary pads that were placed between her legs. Based upon the woman’s statements, CANU officers were able to arrest Morris, who had been on their radar for a SHAMAR MORRIS while. Two weeks ago, Isaacs appeared before City Magistrate Leron Daly and was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment and fined $1.8M. CANU prosecutor Konyo Sandiford-Thompson said a confrontation had recently been held between Morris and Isaacs, and Morris denied knowing Isaacs. The prosecutor said Isaacs had provided the police with details of events that had transpired between herself and Patrima Isaacs was Morris while they conspired to s entenc e d to thre e traffic the cocaine to the Unityears’ imprisonment ed States of America. for trafficking narcotics The prosecutor strongly opposed bail for Morris based on the seriousness and prevalence of the offence. As such, he was remanded to prison until August 15, and his matter has been transferred to Magistrate Daly’s court.

of leave for him. I am of the opinion that he voluntary walk off the job. I was made to understand he gone over-

seas; however, we [Region 6 Administration] (are) yet to receive a correspondence from the Ministry of Communities about the issue.” The Communities Min-

istry statement made it clear that Dr Ramayya did not, in any way, abandon his post or walk off the job. “He proceeded on leave, having applied for, and received, the

requisite approval. A formal letter of approval was issued by the ministry, and a copy was dispatched to Regional Chairman David Armogan,” the statement noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Kitty resident to stand trial for cocaine in wiri-wiri peppers

CALEB Habeed Caesar of Lot 130 Garnett Street, Newtown, Kitty, Georgetown has been committed to stand trial at the High Court for conspiring with other persons -- at William Street, Kitty between April 1 and 26, 2013 -- to export 40 kilos of cocaine to the

United States. Magistrate Judy Latchman informed the 35-yearold Caesar on Tuesday that a prima facie case had been made out against him establishing the offence of conspiracy to traffic narcotics, and, as such, he has to face a judge and jury at a future sit-

ting of the Demerara Assizes. Some 40 kilos of cocaine were, on April 26, 2013, discovered in Trinidad on a Caribbean Airlines flight on its way to Miami from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) in Guyana. Approximately 21 boxes of wiri-wiri peppers had

undergone a physical check and scanning at the CJIA; and at the Piarco International Airport, scanners had also failed to detect the illicit substance among the peppers. However, a sniffer dog at the Piarco Airport began ripping through the boxes when it detected the illicit substance,

Caleb Habeed Caesar and small balls of cocaine wrapped and painted in red to look like real peppers -even with real stems pasted on -- were discovered. Caesar had, in 2015, been sentenced to four years’ imprisonment by a city magis-

trate after he had been found guilty of participating in a plot to export 15.55 kilos of cocaine -- hidden in ochroes -- to the United States between April 1 and August 13, 2013. His co-accused, electrician Hadrick Cummings, had pleaded guilty and was sentenced to five years in jail and fined $40.5 million. Cummings had disclosed during the investigation that he had orchestrated the shipment along with the accused. Cummings reportedly explained to investigators that he had met with Caesar on the seawall and they had planned the delivery. Caesar reportedly had funded the shipment. Caesar is currently serving a four-year sentence for that offence.

3 years jail for labourer caught with ganja A ST. IGNATIUS village labourer will spend the next three years of his life in prison after he was jailed on Tuesday for possession of narcotics. Velbert Peters pleaded guilty to the charge before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was also fined $142,000. He admitted that on July 17, at St. Ignatius Village, Central Rupununi, he had in his possession 110 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. The prosecution stated that on the day in question at about 01:00h police on mobile patrol in the area saw the defendant emerging from the bushes on a pedal cycle with a haversack tied to it. Peters was stopped and searched Velbert Peters during which the police officers found leaves, seeds and stems which were identified as cannabis in the defendant’s haversack. He was told of the offense and under caution the accused told ranks that he was carrying a parcel for his friend. When asked by Magistrate McLennan why he was in possession of the drugs, the defendant explained that he was given the weed as payment by a man who did not have money to give him.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

CAL re-commits to Guyana’s Kind Soles Project

FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger on Monday met with Caribbean Airlines’ new Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Tyrone Tang and South America Manager, Mr. Carl Stuart to explore the possibilities of further partnership. The meeting was held at the Office of the First Lady, State House. In an invited comment, the First Lady said Caribbean Airlines requested a meeting to introduce her to Mr. Tang, who is currently in Guyana. “We discussed the Kind Soles Project, which Caribbean Airlines has supported from the inception and has committed to continuing to support,” Mrs. Granger said. Caribbean Airlines brings the shoes that are donated to the Shoes that Grow/Kind Soles Project to Guyana from New York free of cost. “I am very grateful for

First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger is flanked by, from L-R: Mr. Dion Inniss, Caribbean Airlines’ Guyana and Suriname Sales Representative; Mr. Tyrone Tang, Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Carl Stuart, South America Manager that kind of assistance…It’s a great example of Caribbean Airlines’ commitment

as a corporate sponsor and donor,” she said. Meanwhile, in an invited

comment Mr. Tang said he met with the First Lady to assure her of his company’s

continued support of the Kind Soles Project. “We were also inquiring

what other charities and [the First Lady spoke about] a number of charities with us that she is working on and we have said that we will look and see how we can assist further on other charities,” Mr. Tang said. Caribbean Airlines Sales Representative – Guyana and Suriname, Mr. Dion Inniss, who has been collaborating with the First Lady on the Kind Soles Project, also attended the meeting. The Shoes that Grow/ Kind Soles Project was started by Mrs. Granger in collaboration with Mr. Ernie Ross, Guyana’s Consul General in Trinidad and Tobago as part of Rethink initiative. The shoes donated are distributed to children in Guyana’s hinterland region under President David Granger’s Boats, Buses, Bicycle plus Breakfast and Books (Five Bs’) programme. [GINA]

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Animal activist urges passing of Wildlife Bill --after rescuing sloth from being sold

By Shauna Jemmott

ANIMAL activist Syeada Manbodh is calling on government to pass the Wildlife Bill and enforce laws governing the protection and management of Guyana’s creatures in the wild. Manbodh made the calls following a rescue mission which saw a sloth being rescued from a vendor at Mon Repos Market, East Coast Demerara and released into its natural habitat. She was speaking to the Guyana Chronicle at the Guyana Zoological Park Monday, where she and a team of concerned activists and other citizens were in the process of releasing the sloth, which they rescued on Saturday at the Mon Repos Market. It was taken to David Fernandes’ flower farm aback Bounty Farm on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway and released in some 70 acres of land in a natural environment. “It’s a two-toed sloth; it eats fruit, nuts and leaves. They have particular type of leaves they eat. So it will have all the trees and whatever to find and eat,” Manbodh noted. This newspaper understands that the animal

The sloth being transported out of the zoo yesterday (photo saved as in graphics, July 20 as ‘sloth2’)

Freedom! The rescued animal climbing a tree immediately after its release Monday (Photos compliments of Syeada Manbodh) seemed excited to be released back into the wild as it climbed quickly into the nearest tree soon after orientation. The animal activist related that around 10:00 hours

Saturday a friend and fellow activist whose name was given as Shirlene was passing by the market when she saw the animal suffering in the sun. It was locked in a small cage.

The woman contacted her and along with a few others, she travelled to the area to execute the rescue. “It was in a very tiny cat trap. We explained to them (the vendors)that this is wrong what they’re doing, because of the conditions they have it under. “We told the man he has to hand it over, which he did. At first he wanted money, but we told him ‘No, you cannot, because you should not be selling these things on the road in this condition,’ and so he handed it back to us.” The animal was housed at the zoo for two days. Manbodh said it seemed stressed from the moment she first saw it, until the time before its release on Monday afternoon.

It’s official!

Republican party nominates Donald Trump for president DONALD Trump supporters celebrated their once unthinkable capture of the Republican presidential nomination on Tuesday night as state delegates took turns to count up the votes from his remarkable sweep of the party’s 2016 primary election. Crossing the threshold of 1,237 votes, Trump officially became the Republican party’s nominee for president, as the stage in Cleveland was illuminated with a message proclaiming: “Over the Top”. Later, a giant image of of the nominee was beamed into the arena, live via satellite link from Trump Tower

in New York City. “I am so proud to be your nominee for president of the United States,” Trump said. “With your vote today, this stage of the presidential process has come to a close. “Together we have received historic results, with the largest vote total in the history of the Republican party. This is a movement and we have to go all the way.” In the three-minute address, Trump anticipated his big convention speech, rattling through a list of policies, such as strengthening the border, “getting rid” of ISIS, and “restoring law and order”. “I’ll be discussing all

that on Thursday night,” he said. “But together, most importantly, we’re going to make America great again.” The official confirmation of the 2016 nominee was in little doubt after a last-minute procedural rebellion was quickly killed off on Monday, but the ceremonial “call of the roll of states” served as a powerful reminder of the scale of his victory over 16 competing candidates with the largest ever vote haul in a Republican primary. “It is my honour to throw Donald Trump over the top with 89 delegates,” said his son, Donald Trump Jr, as he announced the results from his home state

of New York. “Congratulations dad, we love you.” “Today has been one special day, watching my children put me over the top earlier,” his father told the hall later. “I’ll never forget it; it’s something I will never forget.” Each of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia and far-flung Pacific territories, took turns to read out their delegate split, inducing huge cheers and the occasional jeers when the turn came to the handful of contests won by rivals Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Jeb Bush and John Kasich. “To paraphrase Buffalo Springfield, there is something happening

“ Yo u c a n s e e i t w a s stressed; and it was very aggressive, and hissing and trying to swipe you… He hardly ate anything.” She pointed out that many coastlanders exercise inhumane treatment towards wild animals and is calling for government’s urgent intervention. “I’m begging government to enforce laws, especially with the iguana trade. You pass from the airport and you see all these iguanas tied up and it’s so sad. It’s a really terrible situation… when you walk around the streets and you see parrots being sold, macaws being sold, sloths, monkeys… and this is wrong. It shouldn’t happen. They should have respect for them and keep them in a big cage

if they have to but I don’t believe in the wildlife trade.” “…the Wildlife Bill is before parliament and hopefully it passes and they’re able to do more for the country’s wildlife.” Manbodh thanked the Animal Husbandry Supervisor at the Zoological Park, Prince Dryden for his support in housing the animal at such short notice. She said animals of the wild should be left to live in the wild and protected. “Wildlife should be left in the wild and I think the zoo. The zoo is there for us until we have a place to release them,” she told the Guyana Chronicle. The Wildlife Conservation and Management Bill was tabled in Parliament in May, earlier this year.

here, and what it is is exactly clear,” said the South Carolina lieutenant governor, Henry McMaster, as he seconded the proposed nomination of Trump. “This is not a dream; this is the real thing. This is deadly serious,” added McMaster, who was the first elected official in the country to endorse Trump in January. Those closest to the campaign greeted Trump’s vindication by pointing out just how few politicians, pundits and journalists ever thought his national victory -- secured in a total of 38 states -- was possible. E a r l i e r i n t h e d a y, campaign chairman Paul Manafort said the nomination was the “culmination of a one-year campaign by Mr Trump, a campaign that defied expectations of pundits and the political class.” “He is excited that his quest will finally come to

an end and all of you who doubted him will no longer be able to say ‘yes, but it may never happen’,” he told reporters. “So we are excited about that.” The few figures of the party establishment who have travelled to Cleveland were also paraded on stage on Tuesday to give their blessing to the Trump coronation. House speaker Paul Ryan, a longtime critic of Trump’s divisive rhetoric on race and immigration, was required to oversee the proceedings in his capacity as convention chair. Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell, who was also slow the endorse the nominee at first, was due to lead a group of 10 freshmen senators on stage to pay their respects. Later, Ryan, the most senior Republican in Congress, addressed the hall, but his speech offered no

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Colombia to press for permanent opening of border with Venezuela

THE government in Colombia has called for the permanent opening of its border with Venezuela after crisis-hit Venezuelans flocked to buy basic items. Colombia said it would not allow any further temporary openings of the border, which Venezuela shut last year. More than 100,000 people went to Colombia last weekend, the second time the border was open in a year. They crossed to buy basic goods that are in short supply in their country because of a severe economic crisis. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro ordered the closure to fight cross-border crime. He said the area had been infiltrated by Colombian paramilitaries and gangs. The UN human rights office called on Venezuela to consider accepting “humanitarian aid” to ensure food and medicine supplies were distributed.

Some of those who took advantage of the opening of the Venezuela/Colombia border over the weekend. Thousands have crossed into Colombia to buy products that are in short supply in Venezuela EMPTY SHELVES Colombia’s Foreign Minister, Maria Angela Holguin, said a decision had been

made to not allow any further temporary reopening of the border. “Let’s work so that the opening, the next opening,

is definitive,” she said after meeting officials from the region neighbouring Venezuela. She added that work

needed to be done to make the frontier safer, and to prevent criminal activities in the area. Many in Venezuela say

they have struggled to feed their families, as the country has suffered severe shortages for months. This is a result of the falling price of oil, which is Venezuela’s prime source of income. Supermarkets have empty shelves, and people spend days in queues to buy basic goods. The Venezuelan opposition blames the government for the economic crisis, saying its policies have left businesses unable to import raw materials and essential parts. President Maduro argues that his leftist government is the victim of an economic war. Expressing concern about “severe shortages” of basic goods in Venezuela, the UN human rights office also warned about deteriorating human rights, and growing violence in the country. The body urged the authorities to ensure the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. (BBC)

A triumphant Donald Trump gives the victory sign, as his children – Donald Jr, Ivanka, Eric and Tiffany – start the celebrations rolling

tribute to Trump personally and no affirmation of the nominee’s ideas, which in many cases have radically broken with Republican orthodoxy. Ryan’s first mention of Trump was his promise that at the next state of the union address, “you’ll find me right there on the rostrum with Vice-President Mike Pence and President Donald Trump,” at which the crowd began chanting

Trump’s name. The House speaker alluded briefly to his public disagreements with the nominee – he has called Trump’s comments about a judge of Mexican heritage “the textbook definition of a racist comment”, for example – saying: “Have we had our arguments this year? Sure we have – and you know what I call those? Signs of life.” But he returned to

Trump only once more in his speech, after a long attack on Hillary Clinton and a discourse on Republican values. “Only with Donald Trump and Mike Pence do we have a chance at a better way,” he said. McConnell also launched an attack on Clinton, who he said would “say anything, do anything, and be anything to get elected president”. He added: “If Hillary is

president, we will continue to slide, distracted by the scandals that follow the Clintons like flies.” The Senate majority leader listed a number of conservative issues he said Trump would take action on, including repealing Obamacare and defunding women’s health organization Planned Parenthood. But he also took care to point out that Senate Republicans “would never

hesitate to confront this president”. Chris Christie, the governor of New Jersey who risked his reputation by becoming an early backer of Trump, was more effusive. “We are about to be led by not only a strong leader but by a caring, genuine and decent person,” said Christie, who had hoped to be chosen as Trump’s vice-president. The former New Jersey US attorney used his speech

to lay out an imaginary legal case against Clinton for perceived foreign policy failures and crimes such as “lying to the American people about her selfish, awful judgment”. “Hillary Clinton, guilty or not guilty?” he asked repeatedly, prompting a bellow of “Guilty!” from the crowd each time, often followed by chants of “Lock her up!” (The Guardian)

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$200M investment secured - Moco Moco hydropower facility to come on stream soon

THE Moco Moco hydro power facility is expected to come on stream short-

ly as the government has been successful in securing $200M in interna-

tional funding, Minister of Social Cohesion Amna Ally, told over 100 resi-

Social Cohesion Minister Amna Ally greets Toshao of Moco Moco, James George, on her arrival at the Region Nine village dents at the Moco Moco Primary School over the weekend. The facility is expected to provide jobs for the residents, and improve the standard of living and develop their community. The design for the project has begun and it is expected that the works will commence before the end of 2016. “Surely this government wants your development; we don’t want you to feel excluded. The things the people on the coastland are experiencing, you must experience it too and so this government, this coalition government, this palm and key government that is what it is working towards,” Minister Ally told Moco Moco residents. Minister Ally ex-

pressed the view that due to neglect by the former administration, no meaningful development was done in Moco Moco. “This government under President Granger is going to change that, and we have started to do so, we are going to advance your life so that you can enjoy it …we have a lot in store for you, we want your development, we want you to have a good life,” the Social Cohesion Minister stated. Residents had long called for the power plant to be repaired since they were forced to pay increased electricity costs, after fossil fuel powered generators were used as alternative power sources. Now that government has announced the revival of the project, a former

employee and resident, Mark, made some suggestions to the Minister. “I was a worker of the hydro when it used to work so I realised that we have some mistakes when it comes to like tourists visiting the facility, I think we need proper consultation with the village, we need to sign proper agreements,” the resident stated. A small hydropower project was developed at Moco-Moco with assistance from the Government of China in 1995 which provided electrical power for Lethem. The hydropower plant began to work in 1999, however, a landslide in 2003 disrupted its operations, and it has since been out of commission. [GINA]

A section of the residents at the meeting at the Moco Moco Primary School

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Marudi mining agreement breached … residents complain about TIP, drug use

REGION Nine residents are alleging breach of the agreement signed among involved parties on April 24 to settle the mining dispute in the Marudi mountain area. They raised those concerns over the weekend with Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, when she visited the area as part of a ministerial team led by Minister of Social Cohesion, Amna Ally, in an outreach to the South Rupununi. Minister Broomes told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that the Marudi situation was a pressing matter when she met with 200 residents of Region Nine, who informed her that the situation had worsened since the agreement had been signed to resolve the issues with Romanex Guyana Exploration Ltd. Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman had, last April, initiated a mediation process involving the Amerindian villages of Aishalton, Awariwaunau, Karaudanawa, Achiwuib, Shulinab, Maruranau, Shea and Potarinau, and miners and Romanex Guyana Exploration Ltd. Following the mediation, an agreement outlining solutions to the dispute had been signed among the overseas mining company, toshaos of the Amerindian villages, the Rupununi Miners Association, and the Guyana Women Miners Organisation. Broomes told GINA the residents are alleging that signatories to the agreement were breaching the agreement. “The Amerindians are complaining that they are not benefiting anything from Marudi (mining operations),” Broomes said. Residents have also indicated that, aside from the agreement being breached, illicit activities such as trafficking in persons and selling of prohibited drugs are taking place in the community. “They have a lot of Brazilians in particular working the area, and (residents) are alleging that the Brazilians are taking the gold over the border,” Broomes revealed, as she disclosed that residents told her they felt they were “being used to sign the agreement, and they are being bullied at the end of it.” Minister Broomes has said she would take the matter up with senior Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman. “I’m going to convey to him; so definitely we are going to have to make some kind of decision, because the activity has worsened based on (reports from) the people on the ground,” she said. [GINA]

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Specialist doctors complete training - GPHC’s A&E unit offering better services SIX doctors recently acquired a Master’s Degree in Emergency Medicine through a programme provided by the Vanderbilt University and the Medical Centre of the United States of America (USA). The doctors are currently stationed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Accident and Emergency (A&E) unit, boosting the level of services being offered at the institution. One other doctor is expected to graduate before the end of the year. Twelve such doctors are to be trained by the end of

2018 as part of the training for specialists provided by the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) programme. The EMS was established in February 2014 in collaboration with the GPHC’s A&E unit, and the then Ministries of Health and Home Affairs. Medical Director, EMS programme, Dr. Zulfikar Bux, who is also head of the A&E unit, in underscoring the importance of training specialist doctors, stated, “If you don’t have specialists who can actually diagnose these conditions very quickly and rapidly treat them and do the interventions very fast, you’re

Accident and Emergency Unit, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

going to lose lives. That’s why we have emergency specialists.” He added, “Similar to having surgeons performing specific surgeries and paediatricians taking care of children, emergency medical specialists coordinate and deliver emergency medical care for patients of all description and presenta-

tion,” Dr. Bux noted. Dr. Bux added, “These are doctors who are trained to respond to emergencies in a very systematic manner and very efficiently so unlike a regular doctor will take time to figure out what’s going on if you come with a bleeding in your belly we have protocols and we have been trained with protocols to ensure that we diagnose and pick up these things very fast.”

Dr. Bux explained that with this specialised training, the team of emergency specialists, at the A& E unit (though understaffed) will be better equipped to meet the needs of all patients seeking medical intervention there. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) also trains specialists at the Medical Technician level to assist in the process of saving lives. Emergency Medical

Technicians (EMTs) are responsible for stabilising patients and ensuring their safety until they arrive at the A&E unit. Twenty-nine EMT’s, including staff from the Guyana Fire service (GFS) recently graduated after receiving training under the EMS programme. The training of EMTs is part of the EMS pilot programme which will be launched in September. [GINA]

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Linden residents to benefit from treated water by mid-August

THE water treatment plants at Amelia’s Ward and Wisroc are expected to become operational by mid next month, providing treated water to thousands of residents of the Region 10 municipality of Linden. Executive Director of Infrastructure Planning and Implementation of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Ramchand Jailal, told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that the two water treatment plants were constructed over a year ago, but, after inspection, were found to have defective filters. GWI is currently in the process of fixing the filters. “At present, work is ongoing on the improvement of the filters; because, for any

water treatment plant, that’s the heart,” Jailal explained. Testing of both water treatment plants should be completed within two weeks, after which the plants would be fully operational. “They are scheduled to undertake testing in the latter part of this week; and after they test the filters at Amelia’s Ward, in another two weeks’ time, we will also be testing the filters at Wisroc,” Jailal disclosed. The two water treatment plants were constructed to reduce operational costs associated with the treatment of surface water from the Demerara River. Repairs to either plant would cost over $50M, with the redesigned filtration system costing $35M and the shell structure

costing $15M. The Mackenzie and West Watooka water treatment plants will undergo rehabilitative works in August, and will serve as backup. “These projects have already been tendered and evaluated, and are at present at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board for award of contracts. We expect those awards before the end of July, and the works are expected to start in August,” Jailal said. At a ministerial outreach on Friday, Linden residents highlighted the water challenges they face on a daily basis, and were apprised of ongoing efforts by GWI to ensure that potable water is accessible to every resident. [GINA]

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

ARIES There is no question about it -- you are a force to be reckoned with in the department of love today. Venus gives you the gift of heightened charm while her proud trine to taskmaster Saturn tempers your behaviour with deliberate actions. However, your lack of motivation could be a problem as your present comfort zone creates a temporary bubble of safety around you. Nevertheless, initiating a discussion on a sensitive topic strengthens a relationship. It’s smarter to build stability in calm seas than to wait for the next storm to hit. TAURUS Your interactions with others are so smooth today that you can charm your way into someone’s heart. Luckily, your ability to approach new relationships with both vitality and responsibility enhances your personal life. Your impulse to create art, establish a new enterprise or organise a social event can infuse you with an enduring passion. Whatever attracts you now becomes part of you, bringing lasting pleasure and well-earned respect. GEMINI You may feel as lucky as a four-leaf clover today, and you won’t even have to kiss a leprechaun to make your dreams come true. However, you must move the energy out of your head and into your body. Treat yourself to a therapeutic massage, go out for an evening of dancing or tell that special person how much you care. But don’t just drift through the day; make well-defined plans and commit to them. Ultimately, you will be judged by your actions, not your intentions. CANCER You may not set the world on fire with the heat of your passion today, but you can reliably keep the love light burning on a very low flame. Although romantic Venus is travelling though playful Leo, somber Saturn places a more serious spin on things. Relying on common sense works effectively now as you establish the authority needed to further your personal or professional goals. But don’t waste time looking for immediate gratification; passing pleasures can’t hold a candle to the enduring connection that comes from mutually earned respect and admiration. LEO Deepening a current relationship makes much more sense now than running off to initiate a new one. Loyalty becomes more important than frivolity when friendly Venus in your flirtatious sign is subdued by stern Saturn. It’s best to work closely with someone else to establish priorities and then focus on one subject at a time. Avoid leading anyone on with your good intentions. People’s expectations could become burdensome when your need for freedom grows. As Abraham Lincoln said, “Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality.” VIRGO You wish you could perform your everyday tasks differently today because the old ways seem tiresome and inefficient. Although the quirky Aquarius Moon may steer you away from emotional intensity, attractive Venus harmonises with realistic Saturn to bring you a reasonable attitude about love. Impulsive behaviour can create problems so you really must lay the groundwork before rushing into a major project. Move slowly and surely toward that which makes you happy. LIBRA Normally, your high tolerance for ambiguity enables you to maintain your composure when the universe sends you mixed signals. However, you have no time for indecision while a Venus-Saturn trine offers you the opportunity to strengthen an existing relationship. Breathe deeply and consider your options, for conscious action will bring better results now than recklessness. Remember, there’s no need to hurry; change will continue to happen at just the right speed if you let it. SCORPIO You are super-productive and extra-efficient today, especially when it comes to making money. However, you may be so self-sufficient that working with others is not on your radar now. Establishing trust is essential while loving Venus harmonises with accountable Saturn. Supportive relationships should flow easily now if you share a common goal. But throwing in the towel is not a wise strategy, even if the going gets tough. Don’t lose a diamond while chasing glitter. SAGITTARIUS You are free to create new goals now as long as they are on the practical side of the fence. Fortunately, a methodical approach enables you to turn your big ideas into reality. Don’t be afraid to ruthlessly narrow your focus today, because eliminating extraneous activities is a key to your success. Be wary of getting bogged down in the minutiae; details and distractions will only disrupt the inevitable learning that ultimately is meant to expand your world. CAPRICORN Climbing the ladder of success leaves you feeling empty today. You are intent on finding personal enjoyment, but even a wonderful experience must be part of a larger package that also includes a heart connection. Unfortunately, your unflappable sense of determination puts your emotional desires in direct conflict with your goals. Ultimately, you can find the money and love you seek as long as you avoid getting swept up in the urgency of the moment. Never underestimate the power of persistence. AQUARIUS You can turn your creativity and charm into professional assets today as resourceful Venus forms a superconductive trine with productive Saturn. Luckily, you could use your charisma to graciously guide people where you want them to go without stirring up any resistance. You might be pleasantly surprised at how simple the process is and how well it all turns out. Nevertheless, it’s also tempting to take the easy way out and do nothing at all. As Pablo Picasso said, “Action is the fundamental key to success.” PISCES You may be overly protective of someone at work today. Unfortunately, distinguishing your feelings from those of others around you can be tricky until you draw clear boundaries. You are receiving support from the cosmos that gives you inner resolve now when you need it. Your strength of purpose empowers you to secure a safe haven for you and your friends. Remember, you won’t be swept away by any drama that isn’t yours if you firmly hold onto your centre.

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Smith, O’Keefe hit fifties in strong Aussie total AUSTRALIA were given a long-but-light workout against spin on the second day, as all their batsmen hit at least 25, though only Steven Smith and Steve O’Keefe passed fifty. The second-day pitch at the P Sara Oval had begun to take some turn, but Australia can expect significantly drier conditions and substantially higher-quality slow bowling in the Tests. Nevertheless, a team total of 431 for 9 represented a strong outing for the visitors. The Sri Lanka selectors, watching on, would know the Australians have emerged from their first spin trial of the tour in ominous form. The Sri Lankan XI attack, which did not feature the island’s top spin prospects to begin with, operated under a kind of self-prohibition. Perhaps out of a strategic decision not to accustom the Australian batsmen to leftarm spin, captain Milinda Siriwardana did not bowl himself at all in the day. The other left-arm spinner, Chaturanga de Silva, was given only short spells at the top order; only when the tail-enders arrived at the crease was he more liberally used. Sri Lanka will hope this tactic sees Rangana Herath’s threat maximised when the Tests begin on July 26 in

Pallekele. Siriwardana may also fairly expect to be named in the Sri Lanka squad, and if the selectors are of a similar view, Siriwardana will have kept his own powder dry. The day’s foremost workhorse was Shehan Jayasuriya, whose off-spin may be classified his secondary skill. He delivered 29 overs, took five for 109, and sparked several close shouts while the seamers were rotated at the other end. Vimukthi Perera was the most impressive of the quick men, bringing a ball in to Joe Burns to bowl him for 72 in the morning, but Nisala Tharaka was also sharp in patches. O’Keefe’s unbeaten 62 may be the most consequential of the day’s performances for the Australians, as it raised his chances of entering the Test XI. Having taken a five-wicket haul on day one, O’Keefe was a measured foil to Mitchell Starc’s adventure, as the pair put on 59 runs from 13 overs late in the day. O’Keefe was largely content to nurdle the singles, often using his feet to spin. Starc, meanwhile, deployed a devastating slog-sweep several times in his 48-ball 45. The pair did benefit from unimpressive ground fielding,

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however. Earlier in the day, Adam Voges and Smith had made 88 in each other’s company, largely finding runs on the leg side, as Voges in particular shelved the more aggressive shots. The pair’s frill-free accumulation took the Australians past the Sri Lankan XI’s 229, and formed the foundation of their team’s advance on day two. Smith came down the track to hit the off-spin of Jayasuriya over the infield on occasion, but largely reserved his more expansive strokes for the seamers. It was spin that brought both batsmen’s stay to a close. Smith was trapped in front by de Silva, before Jayasuriya turned one in from the developing rough to beat Voges’ sweep shot and rattle his off stump. Mitchell Marsh struck a quick 25 thereafter, but was also out to Jayasuriya caught behind down the leg side, though he did jokingly ask for a review of the umpire’s decision to suggest he did not hit the ball. Jayasuriya caught a high top-edge off Starc’s bat, and sent one through Lyon’s defences to complete his five-wicket haul. (ESPN Cricinfo)

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NSC pledges support for Linden’s MSC facility

AS the National Sports Commission (NSC) continues to look towards improving sporting facilities all across Guyana, the Director of Sport Christopher Jones recently pledged assistance for the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) in Linden when he met with officials of the facility earlier this week. With the hopes of soon developing a long-term plan for the facility, in the interim Jones promised to assist the facility with lights and “grounds enhancement” works. “I would like to focus my attention on the lights and the ground,” Jones said, adding that because of “what will be obtained in the coming months, such initiatives are a priority for the Department of Sport”. Also present at the meeting were officials from the Boyce/Jefford organisation, the hosts of the annual Boyce/Jefford Classic athletic meet, which is held at the facility. President of MSC, Avery Trim, noted how much the Club appreciated Jones expression of interest in assisting to improve the facility. Trim remarked how much the help is needed, not only from

the government but from corporate Guyana as well, to see the MSC reach the kind of standard it needs to be at. “We are appreciative of these kind sentiments, and we will continue to work to get this venue up to the level that we know it to be,” Trim commented. Trim mentioned that given the level of sports in the community, facilities like the MSC are becoming an essential part of the community infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Boyce/ Jefford Organisation thanked both Jones and Trim for the collaborative effort to get the facility up to a standard, ahead of their August 27-28 event. They also met with Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland who was brought up to date on the body’s plans for the hosting of this year’s Classic. Holland also offered whatever assistance the local government can to support the meet, and see that the Linden community benefits. The Boyce/Jefford officials reminded that the meet, which was born in Linden, will remain in Linden, as they continue to support the development of the community.

Pollard calls for end... From back page al tournament, the 50-over tournament and the four-day tournament which is country – Jamaica versus whoever, Trinidad versus whoever but this is franchise cricket, people from all different nations coming together in one team to win and it’s about winning.” He used to opportunity call for an end to insularity that have helped define relationships in the regional. “It’s not about who is from where. If one of your better players selected is from Trinidad or Jamaica then

so be it,” Pollard said. “We in the Caribbean need to get rid of this insular attitude. It’s about West Indies cricket and it’s about winning games and what is important is winning cricket matches. What is important for the world to see is that the West Indian population is together as one in order for West Indies cricket to go forward. “If we continue with this ‘he can’t captain because he is from a different country’ then we will stay exactly where we are right now which is number nine (in the world) and we’ll go no further.” (Sportsmax.com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

IOC seeking legal advice over complete ban for Russians in Rio

THE International Olympic Committee (IOC) says it is seeking legal advice over the possibility of excluding all Russian sports stars from the Olympic Games in Rio. On Monday the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) recommended that all Russian athletes be banned from the upcoming Rio Olympics after an explosive report into doping. Track and field athletes are already excluded from this summer’s Olympic Games and WADA’s recommendation in

the independent McLaren report published on Monday is that this be extended to Russians from all sports. The IOC says it will take into account a ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) due on July 21 - which will address appeals from Russia athletes against the initial ban - when it takes a final decision. With regard to the participation of Russian athletes in the Olympic Games Rio 2016, the IOC will carefully evaluate the IP Report,” a statement said.

“It will explore the legal options with regard to a collective ban of all Russian athletes for the Olympic Games 2016 versus the right to individual justice. In response to the shocking allegations outlined by WADA, the IOC published a lengthy statement. “The findings of the report show a shocking and unprecedented attack on the integrity of sports and on the Olympic Games. Therefore, the IOC will not hesitate to take the

toughest sanctions available against any individual or organisation implicated,” IOC president Thomas Bach said. The measures taken by the IOC include the following: The IOC has “started disciplinary actions related to the involvement of officials within the Russian Ministry of Sports and other persons mentioned in the report because of violations of the Olympic Charter and the World Anti-Doping Code.” The IOC “will explore the legal options with regard

to a collective ban of all Russian athletes for the Olympic Games 2016 versus the right to individual justice. In this respect, the IOC will have to take the CAS decision on July 21 2016 concerning the IAAF rules into consideration, as well as the World Anti-Doping Code and the Olympic Charter.” The IOC “will not organise or give patronage to any sports event or meeting in Russia. This includes plans for the European Games 2019, organised by the

European Olympic Committees (EOC).” The IOC “will not grant any accreditation to any official of the Russian Ministry of Sport or any person implicated in the IP Report for the Games of the XXXI Olympiad Rio 2016.” The IOC “will initiate reanalysis, including forensic analysis, and a full inquiry into all Russian athletes who participated in the Olympic Winter Games Sochi 2014 and their coaches, officials and support staff.”

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Hassan’s heroics fail to earn Fly Jamaica victory … Woodstock retain memorial trophy By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada – A brilliant all-round performance from Blairmont Cricket Club player Waqar Hassan wasn’t enough to earn a Fly Jamaica X1 their first lien on the memorial cricket tournament versus Woodstock Cricket Club last Sunday. The game, played in memory of the late Maureen Franklyn and Debbie Moore at Woodstock, some 88 miles from Toronto, saw the defend-

ing champions romp to an exciting seven-run victory in the 35-over affair, played before a vocal home crowd, with Mayor Trevor Birch witnessing the closing stages. Set 138 for victory, after winning the toss and asking the home sise to take first strike, Fly Jamaica were shut out for 130 in 34.1 overs with Hassan’s fine 66 being the lone shining light in a disappointing batting performance. Joining the fray with his team precariously placed at

30 for five in the 12th over, after the top half was blown away by the Woodstock opening bowlers, the left-handed Hassan who was vacationing in Canada, held the lower half of the innings together with a mixture of attacking strokes and solid defence. Hassan shared a 34-run sixth-wicket partnership with former Guyana national wicketkeeper Azib Ali Hanif (14) and a further 45 for the eighth wicket with his brother Ifteeqar (eight) but once he departed

The victorious Woodstock Cricket Club side with the winning trophy. Mayor Trevor Birch is at extreme right (standing). (Pictures by Frederick Halley).

MVP Waqar Hassan poses with Mayor Birch and an official of Woodstock. at 126 for eight, the innings folded. Seemingly well set to take his team to victory, Hassan’s adventurism became his downfall as, in attempting to repeat a pull shot off the returning Fabian Stoner, he offered a simple catch to mid-wicket after hoisting the previous delivery for a towering six. His fine knock, which earned him the Most Valuable Player award overall and for his team and also the highest score in the game, was laced with two sixes and eight fours. For Woodstock, skipper Orain Francis finished with three for 20 from 6.1 overs, Dennis Leeburt three for 22 from six and Stoner two for 22 from seven. Earlier, Woodstock were led to their challenging total by MVP Martin Clarkson (27 with a six and two fours) and 18 from Codlin Solomon. They were also indebted to a last-wicket stand of 28 from their numbers 10 and 11 batsmen which proved decisive in the end. Ravi Bodo took three for 21 from 6.1 overs to claim the Best Bowler prize while there were two wickets each for Ryiad Sattaur, Ifteeqar Hassan and MVP

Waqar Hassan for 22, 27 and 31 runs respectively. The tournament was first played in 2013 and also took place in 2015 and after a lapse last year returned this year with the home team winning for the third consecutive time. It was organised following the deaths of the two women which reportedly occurred within two days of each other after they had witnessed a game at the venue the weekend prior to their demise. At the presentation ceremony, Mayor Birch praised the efforts of the Woodstock

Cricket Club officials for keeping the game of cricket alive in the small community. The officials included president Clyde Glasgow, brother of former national players Ovid and Keith ‘Ball Oil’ Glasgow (deceased). He has been living in Canada for the past 48 years. Fly Jamaica officials Lawrence Kanhai and Edward VanLuien represented the airline company, the latter serving as captain while Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club president Narchand ‘Archie’ Mohan was also in attendance.

Fly Jamaica official Edward VanLuien hands over a token of appreciation to Mayor Birch. President Clyde Glasgow (with mike) is at left.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Fearsome Russell knocks Knight Riders down

TWO days before he was to face an anti-doping hearing, Andre Russell was in fearsome form, which meant Jamaica Tallawahs finished on the right side of a thrilling game against Trinbago Knight Riders, not to mention on top of the points table as well. The fans at Sabina Park had to watch their team twiddle their thumbs until the start of the 18th over. But 119 for 6 became 158 for 7 with Russell at the helm. He made sure he faced eight of the final 12 balls of the innings and finished with 44 off 24 with five fours and three sixes. Russell came out with a new bat, bright pink in colour, drawing comparisons with the bright gold bat his captain Chris Gayle had used in the Big Bash League. The experiment didn’t last too long though, he asked for something a little less flashy two balls into his innings. The third disappeared for four. Later, with ball in hand, and the match in the balance, Russell took two wickets in two balls in the 17th over. A haul of 4 for 23 put the final

Andre Russell smashes 44 off 24 balls and picks up 4 for 23. touches on a well-earned victory. The only thing that disturbed Russell during his match-winning performance was a soft landing spot at the bowling crease. That combined with a long-standing knee problem meant he had to undergo some treatment during the course of the match. “I’m playing, but I’m still not a 100%,” Russell said. “But, everything in the game is tough. The wicket

is tough, the ball, the pitch, bat everything, so you the player have to be tough. A little niggle is not going to keep me out. “As soon as I get back to the dressing room, I’m going to be back on the massage bed, doing whatever I have to do, ice bath, make sure I recover and recovery is very important so as much as I’d like to go out and have a drink with the lads, I’d have to stay in my room and do what I

have to do.” A required rate just under eight meant neither team had a clear edge at the start of the chase, which progressed with both sides fighting quite hard to earn that upper hand. Tallawahs had Knight Riders at 60 for 4 in 10 overs, but Hashim Amla’s solidity and Denesh Ramdin’s enterprise he walloped Shakib Al Hasan for two sixes and a four in the 14th over - reduced the equation to 58 off 36 with captain

Dwayne Bravo still to bat. However, Amla fell in the next over, Steyn knocked Bravo over one ball after the batsman had smacked him for a four and a six in the 16th. Russell took over in the 17th and then it was done. Kevon Cooper dismissing Gayle for a nine-ball duck, and picking up two wickets in the 13th over including that of Kumar Sangakkara, became a footnote. So did a miserly spell from Sunil

Narine. All that remained was the Tallawahs’ joy, which peaked when Sangakkara, 38 years old and long retired from international cricket, leapt full length to his right to claim a superb low catch in that eventful 17th over from Russell. By that point it was clear who had claimed the upper hand, and the Tallawahs’ joy was to last long into the night.

Games, would be temporarily suspended. Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko told the R-Sport news agency he had suspended his anti-doping adviser Natalia Zhelanova as well as Irina Rodionova, deputy head of Russia’s state-funded Sports Preparation Centre, and two other officials. Canadian sports lawyer Richard McLaren, who headed the WADA investigation, said

Zhelanova and Rodionova had worked closely with Russian Deputy Sports Minister Yury Nagornykh to cover up positive doping tests by Russian sports people since 2011. Nagornykh was suspended on Monday after the report’s publication. Mutko said his own suspension was not being discussed and that no allegations had been made against him. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry

Peskov said Mutko had not been named in the WADA report as being directly involved in the cover-ups. “My suspension is not being considered - it is a matter for the president and prime minister to decide,” R-Sport quoted Mutko as saying. “There were no accusations made against me and there cannot be because it is absolutely unrealistic and impossible.”

Bravo is the only Windies Russia suspends senior sports batsman in ICC’s top 30 officials over doping scandal

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, (CMC )– Darren Bravo will enter this week’s opening Test against India as the highest ranked West Indies batsman in the game’s longer format. In the latest International Cricket Council(ICC) rankings released Monday, the left-handed Bravo was installed at 23rd on a list headed by Australian skipper Steve Smith. Bravo averages 41 from 42 Tests with seven hundreds, but has not played a Test since last January on the West Indies’ tour of Australia. He was one of the few successes on that dismal tour for the team, scoring 247 runs at an average of 49. Bravo will once again be expected to carry the burden of the West Indies batting in the four-Test series against the Indians, which bowls off tomorrow at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua. The Trinidadian is the only West Indies batsman in the top 30 with opener Kraigg Brathwaite lying 32nd, Marlon Samuels 43rd and Jermaine Blackwood, 46th. All three players will have the opportunity to improve

Darren Bravo their ranking as they are all picked in the 13-man squad for the Antigua Test. Meanwhile, fast bowler Kemar Roach is the highest ranked West Indies bowler at 21st, with Pakistan leg-spinner Yasir Shah jumping three places to top the bowlers rankings. Roach went wicket-less on the three-Test tour Down Under and is not a part of the squad for the opening Test against India, having just recovered from injury. He has taken 122 wickets from 37 Tests. Fellow pacer Jerome Taylor, who last week retired from Tests, is 24th while leftarm spinner Sulieman Benn is ranked 26th.

(REUTERS) - Russia suspended a raft of senior sports officials yesterday after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said they were heavily involved in a state-backed cheating scheme at the 2014 Sochi winter Olympics. Russian President Vladimir Putin had said on Monday that any government officials identified in the WADA report, which found evidence of widespread cheating at the Sochi

Bayliss hints at two spinners for Old Trafford Test (REUTERS) - Coach Trevor Bayliss hinted England might field two spinners in the second Test against Pakistan as the hosts chase a series-levelling victory at Old Trafford. Leg-spinner Adil Rashid, along with fit-again all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer James Anderson, was called into England’s 14-man squad following their 75-run defeat in the first Test at Lord’s. “I’ve always thought of playing two spinners (at

England head coach Trevor Bayliss home), at some stage. Pakistan have three left-arm pace bowlers, who created rough outside the off stump for (off-spinner) Moeen (Ali),”

Bayliss told British media. “So looking ahead, if we did happen to have two spinners, they could both play an important part for us.” The hosts struggled against Yasir Shah’s leg-spin at Lord’s and will need to do better when the second Test begins on Friday. For them, James Vince scored 42 in the second innings but could not convert it into something big. Vince averages 18-plus after four Tests but Bayliss

seemed to have faith in the 25-year-old. “I think it would be an injustice if he does not make it, but in the end it will be the number of runs that determine his longevity in the team,” Bayliss said. “If you ask anyone who has been in that situation they will say it is difficult to go out and play your natural game. You get caught between trying to do that, and going half after the ball and sometimes nicking off. He has some work to do.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Wiltshire overpowers Fernandes for Girls’ U-19 Caribbean squash title GUYANA’S Larissa Wiltshire powered her way to a title in the Girls’ Under-19 category after defeating top seed Taylor Fernandes. Paige Fernandes picked up the Girls’ Under-11 win and Shomari Wiltshire successfully defended his Boys’ Under-13 title when the finals in the Junior Caribbean Squash Championships were played on Sunday night at South Sound Squash Club in the Cayman Islands. Guyana ended with three gold and two silver medals as the curtain came down on the individual segment of the Championships. The team segment was set to begin last evening. Apart from Taylor, Kirsten Gomes also ended in second place after she lost 14-12, 117, 11-2 to Barbados Sumaira Suleman in the Girls’ U-13 final. In the tough Girls’ U-19 battle, Larissa had to dig deep

Guyana’s Paige Fernandes (left) in her battle for the Girls’ U-11 title against Darci Reich to overcome Taylor, Guyana’s reigning Girls’ U-19 national champion. It was earlier this year that Taylor got the national title after beating Wiltshire, but in Sunday’s rematch a determined Larissa

Guyana’s Larissa Wiltshire (right) celebrates her first junior Caribbean title after defeating Taylor Fernandes in the Girls’ U-19 category.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday July 20, 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) 192/3 (Tallawahs vs Knight Riders) (2) Shane Watson-3/26 (Zouks) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who is the Head Coach of the Warriors? (2) Who is the Manager of the Warriors? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

conquered Fernandes before a capacity crowd. Wiltshire managed a four-set win over Taylor, in her last year at the competition, in a game that ended 6-11, 11-7, 11-3, 12-10,

giving Wiltshire her first junior Caribbean title. Larissa’s victory followed that of her sibling Shomari, who continued his tone of easy wins as he disposed of Barbados’ Darien Benn 3-0 (11-1, 11-2, 11-3), collecting his second consecutive title at the Championships. In the newly introduced Under-11 category, Paige took the inaugural title as she overthrew OECS’ Darci Reich 11-4, 12-10, 11-2. The Guyana players now move on to focus their energy on defeating the other countries in the team competition, where Guyana are the defending overall champions, as well as the Boys’ team defending champions. The Guyana team is going after their 12th consecutive Team title. Meanwhile if the Boys’ team prevail they will capture their fourth consecutive title.

Shomari Wiltshire works his way to victory in the Boys’ U-13 final.

Persaud, Gomez and Perez competing in Great Britain

GUYANA National Rifle Association Fullbore captain Mahendra Persaud, along with colleagues from Trinidad and Tobago in the person of Norris Gomez and Michael Perez, is currently competing at the 147th Imperial Meeting under the auspices of the National Rifle Association (now the governing body of fullbore rifle and centre-fire pistol shooting in Great Britain) which was founded in 1859. The competition, which commenced on June 23 will end on July 23 with the much anticipated and prestigious, HM Queen’s Prize. This prestigious match is shot at 900 and 1000 yards on the Final Saturday of the Imperial Meeting. The top 100 competitors shoot for the most coveted prize in Target Rifle shooting. The Caribbean shooters would normally compete in the TR Individuals which shoots off around the second weekend in July. With the best shooters in the world converging on England for this high-status shoot, Persaud and company have always sought to keep their sights on those targets and have been putting in some sterling performances over the years against the best in the trade. Following are the Grand Aggregate scores for the Caribbean shooters including the overall leader of 784 competitors as at Monday, July 18. Britwistle is representing the Manydown RC of England.

Norris Gomez (right) and Mahendra Persaud in Antigua at the Caribbean championships in May this year.

National Girls U-15s participation to be confirmed

PRESIDENT of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde yesterday indicated that confirmation of Guyana’s participation in next month’s CONCACAF Girls’ U-15 Championship, set for next month in Florida, will be known shortly as the GFF awaits a response from the organisers.

“We are awaiting some clarification from CONCACAF since we have an email which indicates that our registration for the Tournament was completed, and this was done by the outgoing General Secretary long before the fixtures came out. So when we saw the fixtures out and there was

a no-show for Guyana we contacted the organisers and confidently look forward to their positive reply about our confirmed participation. Preparations for the encampment of the squad are well in place and very soon the preparations will begin,” Forde said. The 2nd annual CON-

CACAF Championship will be played between August 9 and 22 with 22 countries taking part - 16 from CFU, 3 each from North America and Central America as well as special invitee Venezuela from South America. The teams have been divided into three groups of five and two of four. (Ras Wadada)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 20, 2016

Caribbean Junior Squash Championships

Guyana Girls beat Jamaica in opening round of Team competition

The Guyana Girls at the Caribbean Junior Squash Championships THE Guyana Girls’ team, led by Caribbean champion Larissa Wiltshire, secured an opening 5-0 win against Jamaica yesterday as the Team competition at the Caribbean Junior Squash Championships served off at the South Sound Squash Centre in the Cayman Islands. Wiltshire, Taylor Fernandes, Rebecca Low, Make-

da Harding and Abosaide Cadogan all bagged wins. With Cadogan and Low giving the team their first two points, Guyana were already guaranteed the victory when national champion Fernandes sealed the deal against fivetime Caribbean champion Alyssa Mullings, to take the score to 3-0. Fernandes took down Mullings 10-12, 11-8, 11-

7, 11-6. Cadogan finished 11-1, 11-1, 11-1 against Alia Haddad, while Low played to 11-2, 11-8, 12-10 against Mira Handa. Jamaica still could not get one in, as matches continued with Harding taking on Mia Lake and Wiltshire coming up against Mia Mahfood. Harding won 11-4, 10-12, 12-10, 11-5, while Wiltshire prevailed 11-1, 11-6, 11-4.

Guyana strikes gold at the 21st Caribbean Darts Tournament

N AT I O N A L c h a m p i o n Sudesh ‘Kerry’ Fitzgerald and Luis Ramirez-Merlano did Guyana proud as they earned the top spots in the 21st Caribbean Cup which was held in Barbados over the last 10 days. Last night Fitzgerald won the individual single title and later teamed up with Ramirez-Merlano to take the title in the Men’s doubles game. Fitzgerald was also crowned male MVP (most valuable player). The international event saw the participation of teams from all across the Caribbean, the USA and Canada. In addition to Barbados, Caribbean teams included Bahamas, Belize, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, and

National champion Sudesh ‘Kerry’ Fitzgerald twin-island republic Trinidad and Tobago. The event was reportedly one of the most highly contested tournaments on the Darts calendar for 2016. Guyana fielded a 12-man contingent, which included

a male and female team. The male team included Lallchan Rambharose, Nicholas Seetaram, Adrian Damon, Terence Joseph, Marvin Yaw, and Jamwant Bhupan, while the women’s side comprised Jaswantie Hiralall, Victorine Chandro, Melissa Smartt and Mary Correia. The team was scheduled to return to Guyana yesterday.

Luis Ramirez-Merlano

The Girls’ team competition will see six teams vying for the title, including home team Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Bermuda. Yesterday’s opening matches also saw Trinidad defeat the Cayman girls 4-1, and Barbados collect a 5-0 triumph over Bermuda. The Girls’ teams are playing in a round-robin format,

Guyana’s Taylor Fernandes celebrates her win against Alyssa Mullings as the Team competition began yesterday. and are now set to take on the Cayman Islands today, Trinidad tomorrow, Bermuda on Friday, and Barbados on Saturday when the competition is scheduled to end. Meanwhile, the Guyana Boys’ team were set to take on the Cayman Islands last evening. The Boys are split into two sets with Guyana

grouped in Pool B with Cayman and Jamaica. Pool A comprises Barbados, Trinidad, Bermuda and the OECS teams. The Boys come up against Cayman tomorrow before the competition enters the semi-finals on Friday. The finals will be played on Saturday.

Antigua & Barbuda ease past Guyana 3-0 ANTIGUA and Barbuda’s ‘Benna Boys’ proved too strong for their Guyanese U-17 counterparts when the two teams met yesterday in their final Group Four game of the Caribbean Football Union’s (CFU) Preliminary competition played in St Thomas, USVI.

The 3-0 victory by the Antiguans ended Guyana’s hope of advancing while it increased their goal difference to a handsome +5 and put them in a good position to advance to the next round, as the best second-placed team among the groups. The only defeat for the ‘Benna Boys’ was against top

team Jamaica who ended with a perfect record. It was the second loss for the young Golden Jaguars whose sole win was against the home team to avoid finishing at the bottom of the group. The team is expected back home tomorrow. (Ras Wadada)

Injured Woods to miss all four majors for first time TIGER Woods has withdrawn from the US PGA, meaning he will miss all four majors in a calendar year for the first time since his Masters debut in 1995. American Woods, 40, has not played tournament golf in almost a year and underwent two operations last autumn in an attempt to

cure a back problem . His agent has confirmed he will not play for the rest of this season as he is not ready for “competitive golf”. Tiger Woods has not won a major since the 2008 US Open

The 14-time major winner has dropped to a world ranking of 628. (BBC Sport)

NSC pledges support for Linden’s MSC facility Poll shows half of Brazilians opposed to hosting Olympics

Director of Sport Christopher Jones (right) meets MSC president Avery Trim and executive members of the Boyce/Jefford Organisation in the MSC pavilion. (See story on page 34)

Pollard calls for end to regional insularity

B

ACK in 2013 when Trinidadian Kieron Pollard was named captain of the Barbados Tridents, the appointment did not go down well with some. From the man on the street to the halls of government, having a Trinidadian lead a franchise from Barbados was hard for some to swallow. “I have a great difficulty with a Trinidadian captaining the Barbados franchise in the upcoming CPL,” declared Hamilton Lashley, a former minister of social transformation in Barbados in echoing a sentiment shared by many on his island. “They have retained the name Barbados, so I believe a Barbadian like (Dwayne) Smith or (Kirk) Edwards should be captain. I feel it is fundamentally and

Barbados Tridents captain Kieron Pollard psychologically wrong. It affects the psyche of some Barbadians.”

Over the past three years however, success have brought with it something of

a turnaround in public sentiment. Pollard led the Tridents to the CPL title in 2014 and to the finals last year where they lost to the then Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel and are now more widely embraced than he was just three years ago. “It’s just winning. Had I gone there and didn’t win matches it would have been totally different,” the towering Trinidadian said while responding to questions at a press conference at Sabina Park, Tuesday, the eve of the Tridents crucial match up against the red-hot Jamaica Tallawahs on Wednesday night. “There is still a lot of talk around but we have been alluding to the fact that this is franchise cricket. At the end of the day there is the region-

(See page 34)

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(REUTERS) - Half of Brazilians have said they are opposed to hosting the Olympics that begin in less than three weeks amid deepening concern over the high cost of the games, according to a poll published yesterday. That is double the percentage who said they were opposed to Rio’s hosting of the games when the same poll was taken in 2013. The Datafolha polling institute survey published in the Folha de S. Paulo newspaper also found that 63 percent of those asked in the latest poll think the Olympics will bring more costs than benefits, up from 38 percent three years ago. With a price tag of 40-billion reais ($12.3 billion) reais, Rio’s games will be held as a deep recession grinds through its second year and with unemployment at over 11 percent. On the political front, Brazil’s suspended President Dilma Rousseff is facing an impeachment trial and may be ousted just days after the Olympics end August 21. Rio de Janeiro state is one of Brazil’s most indebted. Its governor in recent weeks had to declare a “state of calamity” to secure some 2.9 billion reais ($892 million) in federal emergency funds just to pay police and keeps hospitals open through the games. Crime in Rio has been rising recently - though officials say over 85 000 police and soldiers will be on the streets to ensure safety, double the force London had during its 2012 games. Yet the spectre of a terror attack worries authorities, following the recent bloodshed in Europe, the United States and elsewhere. Federal prosecutors meanwhile have said they are investigating allegations of corruption in several projects, including both Olympic venues and so-called legacy projects, such as the extension of a subway line and the refurbishing of a dilapidated port area. Most of the buildings for the Olympics have been carried out by construction firms ensnared in Brazil’s biggest corruption scandal, a kickback scheme at state-run oil company Petrobras (PETR4.SA). Despite all that, the survey did find that 40 percent asked say they approve Rio holding the games. The remaining 10 percent said they were indifferent or did not respond to the question. Datafolha interviewed 2 792 people across Brazil on July 14 and 15. The survey has a margin of error of 2 percentage points. WEDNESDAY, JULY 20, 2016