Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 21 09 2016

Free us from this burden No. 104681

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

…President Granger urges UN to bring quick end to border controversy

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UK-funded security reforms to kick off soon P.5

President David Granger speaks with UK Minister of State for the Commonwealth, Baroness Joyce Anelay at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office on Tuesday at the UN Headquarters, New York

I’m ready to go …Surujbally writes gov’t on retirement

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Baby suffers fractured skull during birth ‒ mother wants deep probe, compensation P.17

Legal system overwhelmed …TT President plugs mediation to help unburden it

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Legal system overwhelmed

…TT President plugs mediation to help unburden system By Alva Solomon TIMELY delivery of justice must be a matter of priority for every judiciary across the globe; and mediation, as well as dispute resolution in cases, is seen as an effective measure of unburdening the delay in judgments. This was asserted by the President of Trinidad and Tobago, His Excellency Anthony Carmona, on Tuesday morning when he addressed delegates currently attending the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (CMJA) conference at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown. In his keynote address to the legal luminaries, President Carmona said: “The cries of delay are not unique to any one corner or region of the Commonwealth.” He said the legal system is simply overwhelmed and suffers from a human capacity deficit. He termed delay

President Anthony Carmona of Trinidad and Tobago greets acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh, following the former’s presentation at the conference on Tuesday morning

“a cancer which starves the system of relevance and respect.” The former Judge in the Supreme Court of Trinidad and Tobago noted that some jurisdictions have employed the use of mediation, and

alternatively dispute resolution in cases which qualify. He described the move as a step in the right direction, since it aids the court in the disposition of cases and thus unburdens the backlog of cases. He called for judgments to be written in an easily understood manner, with public perception in mind, and he called for cultivation of healthy relations between the bar and the bench. President Carmona explained that a judge does not give interviews regarding his judgments, even if they are the subject of “great criticism in the common law tradition”. In those circumstances, he said, the role of the law or bar asso-

ciation is critical in taking up the mantle of communicating in public the effects of the meaning of the judgment “in circumstances where the judiciary should not be placed in a position where it has to defend itself or seem that way. This implies that the relation between the bench and bar must always be cultivated”, he said. He said that one way of meeting the demands of the legal system is by continued education and training, which he noted is mandatory. To support his position, he said Trinidad and Tobago Chief Justice, Ivor Archie, stated at the beginning of that nation’s 2015/2016 law term that

“it is accepted international best practice in developed societies for judiciaries to have continuous training in order to maintain relevance and effectiveness”. He added that in Trinidad and Tobago there exists a lecture series, which he described as informed and said is available in print for public consumption and adjudication. He said the lecture series brings fresh life into the judiciary’s conduct, and it ensures that judges, lawyers and magistrates are apprised of new developments in the rule of law in a practicable manner. Speaking on the demands of the legal profession, President Carmona noted that the judiciary should engage more in courses, in order to be more effective on matters which are brought for adjudication in the courts. He explained that China and the United States of America recently signed onto the Paris Agreement on climate change; and combined, those two nations are responsible for 40% of the greenhouse emissions globally. He said that in order for the agreement to have full impact, it must be signed by those countries which are responsible for 55% of emissions. In another instance, he informed that in the case of West Virginia versus the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), some law students have challenged the Paris Agreement in that it can be derailed by a federal court of law. “This is so because the sitting companies will be affected by the sanctions and dictates placed upon countries by the Paris Agreement,” he said, add-

ing that legal practitioners will be forced to engage individual rights against collective rights. He said that such environmental matters are an area in which the legal profession should challenge itself in terms of educational awareness. During his address, President Carmona also spoke of the impact of the Internet Age on the judicial system. He said the Internet and social media challenge the development of law, since they impact the laws of privacy and contract law, and he questioned whether it is related to the law of trespass. He said the judiciaries in many small-island jurisdictions have not been very progressive or timely as regards the Internet and social media development. “At times judges have to raise from the dead archaic laws”, he said, as he noted the case -- several months ago -- of Theresa Hope versus Lendl Simmons, the West Indian cricketer, which centred on nude pictures being circulated. Hope claimed, inter alia, damages to breach of confidence, and she succeeded and was awarded aggravated damages. President Carmona noted that the presiding judge said in his judgment that the common law concept of breach of confidence was never applied in the Trinidad and Tobago courts. The conference concludes on Thursday, and presentations will focus on a number of areas, including the balancing of anti-terrorism legislation with the people’s human rights; environmental law, and sustainable development among other matters.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

‘Free us from this burden’

‒ President Granger urges UN to bring quick end to border controversy By Ariana Gordon in New York PRESIDENT David Granger has called on United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to “free” Guyana from the territorial sovereignty challenge posed by neighbouring Venezuela. During his address at the opening of debates at the 71st Session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, President Granger said Guyana’s climate change and economic efforts are being severely hampered by Venezuela’s threats to its territorial sovereignty. Last year, months after he took office, President Granger attended the UN Summit and called on the international community to support Guyana in its ongoing controversy with neighbouring Venezuela over territorial space. Venezuela has claimed a significant part of Guyana as part of its territory, and the Guyanese leader has said the threat posed by the Spanish-speaking country is preventing Guyana from fully exploiting its rich natural resources. Guyana’s territorial integrity has, for 50 years, been violated by Venezuela, and Venezuela has issued a number of decrees claiming territory in Guyana. The

UN Secretary General is expected to demit office in December, and President Granger has expressed much optimism that his country’s request for a juridical settlement of the border controversy would materialise. Guyana has maintained that the juridical route is the only solution to the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela. Venezuela, on the other hand, has called for a restart of the Good Officer process. President Granger said on Tuesday that Guyana’s advances in the area of climate change would be of no use if Venezuela remains a threat to Guyana’s territorial integrity. “Guyana is part of this global ‘green’ movement: its natural assets, commitment to sustainable development, contribution to countering the adverse effects of climate change, and collaboration with the international community in seeking solutions to global threats have distinguished it as an emergent ‘green’ State.” But notwithstanding this progress, the country is constrained, and according to President Granger, all of the country’s efforts -- whether nationally, regionally or globally -– aimed at advancement in a peaceful and stable environment are being challenged by the “territorial

ambitions” of Venezuela. “I place hope in the fact that the process for a final resolution of Venezuela’s unworthy territorial claims rests now in the hands of the Secretary General of the United Nations,” he said. He also said that Venezuela has, for a full year since he last spoke at the UN, stalled Guyana’s progress by every means at its disposal, and has intensified its aggression against Guyana and thwarted all of the Secretary General’s efforts to pursue ‘a way forward’ – at least in terms of a process that promises final resolution to the controversy. The President noted that Guyana stands ready to have the International Court of Justice (ICJ) bring finality to the matter. Guyana, he said, will continue to work resolutely with Secretary General Ban Ki-moon during his final months in office; and thereafter with his successor, to “free Guyana from this surreal burden.” Venezuela agreed, in the Geneva Agreement of 1966, to have the United Nations’ Secretary General determine the means of settlement of this matter, including by judicial settlement, the President reminded; and noted that despite its agreement, Venezuela “defies (the Secretary General’s) every effort to fulfil that commitment.”

President David Granger addressing the United Nations General Assembly yesterday

The Guyanese leader said the UN cannot be a “dispassionate party to a threat to peace anywhere, and a challenge to the law of nations.” Venezuela’s territorial claim, he said, is a challenge which strikes “at the heart of the

United Nations, its trusteeship of the law of nations, and the Charter which the Secretary General upholds.” Guyana, President Granger added, looks to the UN for protection against threats to its security, and for

intervention to ensure peace and respect for international law. Said he: “Mr. President, my plea for international understanding of our plight has nothing to do with Venezuela’s internal situation. The ordinary people of Venezuela are our sisters and brothers; their agonies touch our hearts, and we wish them early relief from their ordeal. Venezuela’s claims, however, are a threat to our existence as an independent nation. They are a scandalous revival of the conquistadoral disease that once plagued its own history; they are a crime against our humanity clothed in the verbiage of national honour.” Within the context of the preservation of sovereignty and its inextricable link to sustainable development, the President reiterated Guyana’s continued support for the complete removal of the commercial, economic, and financial blockage imposed by the United States against Cuba, another Caribbean country. “We cannot commit to policies to transform our economies, to provide development for our peoples, and not demonstrate the political will to change systems that are in direct contradiction to those policies,” President Granger said.

Gunmen rob Ogle family at their feed shop A TEMPLE Street, Ogle, East Coast Demerara family was yesterday morning robbed of more than $2M in electronics, money and jewellery at their feed shop at their residence by two ‘fake’ customers. One of the victims, 72-year-old Neville Sooklall told the Guyana Chronicle that the robbery occurred at about 09:00 hrs when two men arrived on a white motorcycle and enquired about the price for a bag of rice bran. He related that the duo then entered the yard and went to the feed shop where they gave his daughter-inlaw a $1,000 note, but as she handed over the bag of rice bran they grabbed the money out of her hand. Sooklall stated that they then ushered

them into the lower flat of the two-storey house where they demanded money and jewellery. At that time, two neighbours and a customer were also present when the robbers told the group to sit in the living room and be quiet, while threatening to shoot them if they did not comply. He added that within a few minutes the bandits took away computers, iPhone, iPads, money and jewellery they had in the home before making good their escape. Sooklall said they also relieved him of the day’s sales of $15,000 which he had in his pockets and then they locked them inside the house and fled on the motorcycle. The man stated that the robbers bundled the items into a bag while pointing their gun at them as his

The home of the Sooklalls, where the armed robbery occurred

One of the victims, Neville Sooklall, at the feed shop

daughter-in-law was hesitant in handing over valuables on Tuesday morning. The Sooklalls, a family of seven including four children, have operated a feed shop at their residence for the past eight years and it was their first armed robbery. Sooklall said by the time the police arrived the bandits were long gone but they took

a statement. He highlighted the need for police to patrol the area at nights given the regular incidents of armed robberies occurring in that street and its environs. Sooklall said the robbery has left them traumatised and he is hoping the police can act swiftly to apprehend the suspects.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

World refugee intake Bush snr. rooting for Clinton to double this year

US President Barack Obama has announced a pledge by 50 nations to take in 360,000 refugees from wartorn countries this year. He told the United Nations General Assembly that world leaders, notably Germany and Canada, have vowed to double the number from last year. “We are facing a crisis of epic proportion,” Mr Obama said. About 21 million refugees have been forced to flee their

countries due to conflict or persecution, the UN says. Nine million people alone have been displaced by the sixyear conflict in Syria, while more than four million others have fled the war-torn country. “We cannot avert our eyes or turn our backs. To slam the door in the face of these families would betray our deepest values,” he added. The US has agreed to take in 110,000 new refugees in the 2017 fiscal year, which

begins on 1 October, compared with the 85,000 refugees it expects by the end of September. The president’s remarks come a day after a US and Russia-brokered ceasefire unravelled, partly due to a US-led air strike over the weekend that mistakenly killed Syrian soldiers. Tensions continued on Monday when a strike, which witnesses say came from the air, hit an aid convoy at Urum al-Kubra, destroying 18 UN lorries and

killing about 20 civilians. The UN has since suspended all aid convoys to Syria in response. Both Russia and Syria have insisted their forces were not behind the strike. The president’s announcement also included a pledge by countries to increase financial contributions to UN appeals and humanitarian groups by about $4.5b (£3.5b) over 2015 levels. Participating countries have vowed to help fund

schools for a million refugee children as well as assist in helping one million refugees work legally. Mr Obama used his eighth and final UN address as president to call for a “course correction” to ensure that extremism and violence does not drive countries into a more divided world. “Together, now, we have to open our hearts and do more to help refugees who are desperate for a home,” he said. Though he made no direct mention of the US, Mr Obama said wealthy countries with the resources should do more to help. In what appeared to be a dig at Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, he added: “The world is too small for us to simply be able to build a wall and prevent (extremism) from affecting our own societies.” (BBC)

US Republican ex-President, George HW Bush will vote for Democrat Hillary Clinton in November, US news website,

competed for the Republican nomination, or other rivals in the race, Ted Cruz and John Kasich. Ms Kennedy-Townsend,

George H W Bush will reportedly vote for Hillary Clinton Credit: Rex Politico reports. Mr Bush allegedly made the pledge to Kathleen Kennedy-Townsend, niece to US ex-President John F. Kennedy. The former president’s office has not confirmed the report, with a spokesman saying he was checking. Mr Bush, who held office from 1989 until 1993, has not endorsed Republican candidate Donald Trump. Neither has his son, Jeb Bush, who unsuccessfully

a former Lieutenant Governor of Maryland, posted a photo on Facebook of a meeting with George HW Bush, alongside the caption: “The President told me he’s voting for Hillary!” Mr Bush’s spokesman, however, was cautious. “Those reporting how @GeorgeHWBush will vote this year, it’s not clear anyone was there to verify KKT [Kathleen Kennedy Townsend]. Still checking, keep your powder dry,” Jim McGrath wrote. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

UK-funded security reforms to kick off soon

Guyana’s Security Sector Reform Action Plan (SSRAP) will soon be operationalized, President David Granger has said following his bilateral meeting with Baroness Joyce Anelay, Minister of State for the Commonwealth and the UN, at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office. Since taking office in May 2015, President Granger had indicated that his administration is intent on having the SSRAP reintroduced. Over the past 16 months, the President has met with former UK Prime Minister David Cameron and British High Commissioner to Guyana, Gregg Quinn, on the matter.

“I would say (that) in the last 16 months we have covered a lot of ground to restore the Security Sector (Reform) Action Plan as fast as we could; and within weeks it is going to be happening,” the President disclosed. The US$4.7 billion SSRAP, which began in 2007, was scrapped in 2009 after the British Government had requested to have oversight of the programme, to ensure that there was ‘value for money’. The former People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Administration had disagreed with the manner in which the British Government had wanted the programme to be run, and had stated that the British had sought to intrude

upon Guyana’s sovereignty. However, the British Government had said that the Government of Guyana had submitted a different proposal -- one which had focused on police modernisation rather than employing a holistic approach to reform, as was originally requested. The intention of the British was to build a workable basis for improving national security, while reducing crime in Guyana by 2011. Notwithstanding the history, President Granger says, a British team is expected in Guyana shortly to begin implementing the first phase of the project. Another team had visited Guyana to do scoping.

After the SSRAP has been implemented, Guyana’s security sector will be significantly strengthened, President Granger believes. He said Guyana’s vast and porous borders have allowed for a number of illicit activities to take place. Pointing to the recent discovery of an illegal aircraft at Yupakari, Rupununi, Region 9, the President said that with the police force strengthened, law enforcement officials would be in a better position to address such issues. “It is very likely that that aircraft was involved in illegal activities, and I have ordered an investigation into the nature of those activities: how the plane came to be

found there, and where it came from. Guyana still does not have the capability to protect its long borders and its vast hinterland from being penetrated by illegal aviators, and this emphasises the need for security sector reform,” he added. The President said there is a great need for a stronger police force, one that is better equipped. “I’d like to see policemen (being) better paid. I want to see police units with boats, all-terrain vehicles and aircraft,” he declared, while noting that the country is losing a lot by its inability to adequately protect its borders and hinterland regions. “We know there is not only illegal migration; there

is also the smuggling of narcotics, contraband, gun-running, trafficking in persons. And these crimes are going to be stamped out with a more efficient police force… The British involvement is essential to retraining the police force,” the President has said. The SSRAP was conceived in 2006 with the aim of being fully implemented three years later. President Granger also participated in several other bilateral meetings, including with Fiji, Ghana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. He is expected to meet with other world leaders before he wraps up his visit to the U.S.

Armed bandits rob Venezuelan football team A VENEZUELAN football team was held up by armed men in the north-eastern state of Anzoategui on Monday. First division Trujillanos were driving back after losing Sunday’s away game against Monagas when their team bus was stopped and boarded by six men. The men stripped the players and staff of their possessions, including mobile phones, wallets, shirts and shoes. Venezuela, which is going through a deep economic crisis, has seen a sharp rise in crime over the past years. STRIPPED OF THEIR SHIRTS The incident happened in the early hours of Monday, as the team was driving from Maturin to its home town of Valera. They were about 300km into their 1,000km journey when they were stopped by armed men in Anzoategui state. The team’s press officer told BBC Mundo that the robbers forced their way onto the bus, and ordered the

driver to take a back road. They said they would detonate a hand grenade if someone alerted the authorities, or if the bus was followed. Some of the players were hit by the assailants, the team’s press officer said, but no one was injured. The armed men held the team for two-and-a- half hours while they systematically robbed them of their mobile phones, laptops, cameras, money, watches and jewellery. Most were also forced to strip and hand their shoes and shirts over to the robbers. The robbers also rifled through the team’s suitcases, taking more clothes, valuables and even footballs. They also removed the DVD player from the bus before finally making off. The team reported the crime at a police control post further along the road. A number of international sports federations have expressed their concern over the high levels of insecurity in Venezuela. Earlier this month, the

International Tennis Federation moved a Davis Cup match from Venezuela to

Peru, due to security concerns. In a statement [in Span-

ish], Venezuela’s Football Federation appealed to the authorities to ensure the

safety of teams which often travel large distances by road. (BBC)

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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

The CMJA Conference GUYANA is this week hosting the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association Conference, being held under the theme “The Judiciary as Guarantors of the Rule of Law.” Members of the Commonwealth judiciary have come to their profession with a common history of repression and common principles of law (i.e. the common law system), the latter of which functions on the basis of equality, justice and fair play; while the former has no regard for said principles. As one of the three distinct branches of Government, the Judiciary plays an important role in ensuring the checks and balances built into the system of governance are functioning well. Efforts at ensuring the independence of the Judiciary in Guyana have been a process in continuity, advancing as the nation evolves. To the APNU+AFC Administration’s credit, this process has been taken a few steps forward with financial autonomy. Such autonomy advances the process of needed independence. In the absence of feeling beholden to the Executive and/or Legislature, the Judiciary is better positioned to discharge its duties within the framework of laws, established and acceptable universal declarations, conventions, charters and precedents. The United Nations sees the Rule of Law as that which requires equitable and full protection of human rights, where everybody is equal before the law; and advances and examines same through contexts such as Rule of Law and Human Rights, Rule of Law and Peace and Security, Rule of Law and Development. And while the Rule of Law may mean different things to different people it is not expected to operate in abstract of the environment and efforts to bring about, ensure, and maintain equity in the society. For instance, where laws in societies may criminalise certain practices, and where international bodies such as the United Nations see such as transgression of human rights, it can create a conundrum in adjudicating on matters. The Judiciary, as an influential branch of society, is not only expected to adjudicate within local and common statues, but also be mindful of the global environment within which Commonwealth countries and international bodies to which they belong operate. In this environment, it may require that the Judiciary not only discharge ruling consistent with internationally acceptable principles, but also to be advocates in ensuring indigenous

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Grading Goolsarran Dear Editor, IN HIS Stabroek News article dated September 19, 2016, Mr. Anand Goolsarran (AG) was misleading. I give him a C-grade due to his obfuscation of the material available to him and his tendency to ignore the substance of the transaction. If my grading was done at Ivy University level, the grade would have been lower because of his convenient omissions. 1. The Chairman of the GWI Board issued a statement…. False 2. Where in accounting or law does it define that property, building and erections sold exclude a water well or similar asset? 3. NICIL’s position on who owns the well is omitted. Who owns the well is a question AG should ask NICIL. GWI awaits from NICIL the sale agreement

for the entire property, with building and erections thereon. 4. Vesting order number 14 of 2002, according to AG, does not detail the assets transferred to GWI. 5. AG says via order No. 40 of 2010 the Sanata Complex was transferred to QAII, then makes a convenient and illogical disconnect between the Public Corporation ACT and the Companies Act. 6. There is no evidence that several buildings and erections are included in the Valuation of June 2007, including the Well. 7. It is revealing that items certified by the external auditor provide sufficient grounds for AG to treat the Auditor General’s findings as irrefutable evidence -- September 20 Article, SN. 8. AG does not state when and how the well was included in GWI’s asset

register re: September 20 Article, SN. 9. What rational basis does AG use to pontificate that QAII is a customer of GWI for the property formerly known as Sanata Complex, when QAII is the owner of the property, buildings and erections where the well is located? 10. Based on several references to absence of evidence - see September 20 Article, SN; AG still manages to conclude that QAII does not own the well. 11. Is AG suggesting that QAII should pay electricity costs incurred related to the 9,000 plus residents receiving water from the well? It strikes me that AG undermined several positions he took during the NICIL audit. NICIL should issue a statement on who owns the well. Regards, NIGEL HINDS

National football selection and domestic representation Dear Editor, DID the GFF get caught between a rock and a hard place? This question refers to the publication of an article captioned “Vurlon Mills says his dismissal was wrong” (SN: 15/07/16). Editor, since I am no longer involved in the sport’s administration, from an honest perspective, I can only draw on my previous involvement to arrive at a basic conclusion in relation to the above-captioned. Suffice it to say that this present GFF administration may have a different outlook on the impending issue. But at the end of the day, written documentation to all and sundry within the affiliate/associate structure serves as a deterrent for any misconstrued interpretation.

Previously, all clubs, via the perspective parent bodies, were written to, duly informing them of a selected squad in encampment and continued training ahead of national representation. Once this occurs, club representation ceases forthwith, and in the instance where a club has three or more players in a national squad, postponement for the forthcoming match/matches is automatically guaranteed. This is during the time the national team would be engaged. A typical example would have been the recently concluded Stag Beer Elite League -- Alpha United. Additionally, the coaching and managerial staff members are also named. However, my query in relation to ‘Did the GFF get caught between a

laws reflect international requirements. For while we can all claim the right to, and celebrate, indigenous cultures; where we are members of regional and international organisations, indigenous laws have to reflect the resolutions and agreements these organisations espouse. To Guyana’s credit, the National Constitution has vested in the Judicature not only the authority to be independent and the power to determine based on this supreme instrument, but also to be cognisance of the global reality in making determinations. The ability to discharge the Rule of Law also requires a judicial structure that is influenced by data gathering and analysis, i.e. scientific approach to management. As society evolves, so, too, are its needs and patterns of criminal behaviours. While timeliness in dispensing justice is of vital importance to an efficient justice system, it is also dependent on requisite manpower, skills, and other requisite resources that would ensure programmes for rehabilitation and re-integration into society. The recent Commission of Inquiry into the Camp Street Prison Break speaks to one such demand on maintaining the credibility of the judicial system. An area of contestation

rock and a hard place?’ is specifically in relation to the following: I: What criteria were used by the panel of coaches for the selection of players? II: The ongoing Digicel Schools’ Championship or the GFF Namilco Tournament? III: Are all the players participating in the Digicel Tournament affiliated to the GFF via clubs within the respective associations? IV: Were Digicel and the respective associations/clubs informed of the selected national squad of players; encampment, departure and return? V: Is this year’s Digicel School See page 7

in Commonwealth societies -- given historical realities acquired through knowledge or lived experiences -- is the perception that the small man cannot rely on the court system to dispense justice. Thus assurance to the contrary given by Chief Judge and President of the Caribbean Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association, John Lowndes, in his address to the conference -- that the Rule of Law doesn’t discriminate between government and governance -- is most welcomed. The desire to serve in the Judiciary, irrespective of what would have influenced such choice, comes with great expectation to be the balancing force in society. The least learned among us are familiar with the symbol that epitomises Lady Justice balancing a scale in her hands with her eyes blindfolded. And it is this that everyone -- from the least among us to the most educated -- relies on in times of conflict. Over the next days, the conference will deliberate on issues such as environmental law and sustainable development, domestic violence, alternative dispute resolutions, and the rights of Indigenous people, which are expected to highlight common experiences, goals and best practices.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Contradicting Region 5 RHO by personal experience Dear Editor, I WRITE in response to an outrageous article published in the Guyana Chronicle on 19 September, in which the Regional Health Officer declared: “No shortage of essential drugs in Region 5”. It is either that the Region 5 Regional Health Officer Dr. Steven Cheefoon is oblivious to the shortage of essential drugs at the Fort Wellington Hospital, or he is aware of it but choses instead to defend the Administration’s position of denial. This Region 5 drug shortage was previously raised in Parliament by PPP/C Parliamentarian Dr. Frank Anthony, and was vehemently denied by Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton. I heard the same denial coming from an APNU+AFC councillor

during the Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) statutory meeting held last month. And again, the mantra is being repeated by Dr. Cheefoon at the September sitting of the RDC statutory meeting. Editor, my personal experience contradicts what is being said by Region 5 Regional Health Officer Dr. Cheefoon. My wife suffers from asthma. She has a nebulizer and medication that she uses at home; but when it’s a serious attack, she goes to the Fort Wellington Hospital for treatment. During her nebulizer treatments at the hospital, over time, she is always given a face mask that had been sterilized after being used by other patients. When I first objected to the unsanitary use of a face mask that is designed for single-patient use, I was told that the

National football selection and domestic ... From page 6

Championship sanctioned by the GFF, with all the conditionalities as per the EBFA/EDFA year-end KO tournament? Surprisingly, Vurlon Mills, coach of the Chase’s Academy and initially Asst. Under-17 National Coach, was axed with no formal notification. Mills contends that he received no documentation pertaining to his continued role with the school team, neither was he aware that seven players from Chase’s couldn’t have represented the school in the ongoing Digicel Schools’ Championship. And he says he wasn’t aware that he subsequently had to appear before the GFF’s Disciplinary Committee. Surely, if all that Mills is claiming is true, then the GFF can be deemed culpable for administrative blunders. Interestingly, what would be the fate of the 7 players? Would they be sanctioned? Whose product are they, the GFF by virtue of Club affiliation, or Chase’s through Mills’s coaching? Is Mills a member of the Coaches Association? If not, in what capacity can he be summoned to a hearing before the Disciplinary Committee? In my estimation, a conflict of interest situation has arisen relative to Mills’s involvement! With time constraints definitely against Digicel, albeit in this specific tournament, a postponement for Chase’s is more than likely to cause major disruption. At the end of the day, I do hope that good sense and sanity prevail. Would Mills’s impending sanction by the GFF’s Disciplinary Committee affect his club and national representation? Regards, LESTER SEALEY

hospital has a shortage of drugs and medical supplies. Two days ago, I visited the Fort Wellington Hospital again because she had a serious attack of asthma. In the rush to get her to the hospital, we forgot to take along her own face mask, and again she was forced to use one that was sterilized after being used by other patients. The doctor and nurses there did well to cope with the steady flow of patients. But then came another revelation that only one thermometer was available for use by both doctor and nurses. The doctor requested that a patient sit and wait on the bench to have his temperature taken because a nurse was taking the temperature of another patient in the examination room with the only thermometer that was available. After making some inquiries, I learnt just how frustrating it is for healthcare professionals to provide quality healthcare to patients when basis essential drugs and medical supplies are in short supply. What percentage of the region’s healthcare budget has so far been spent to purchase drugs and medical supplies is a mystery,

as the Ministry of Public Health has not been procuring these items through public tenders to compensate for demands in the sector nationwide; and, as such, the regions are suffering. But according to Dr. Steven Cheefoon, Region 5 RHO, systems have now been put in place to resolve the drug shortage, “We have put an extra 1000 of every medication on the distribution shelf, to cater for the excess of patients with chronic illnesses referred to us by hospitals outside the region.” However, it is very unlikely -- and I find it hard to believe -- that hospitals outside of the region would refer patients with chronic illnesses to either the Fort Wellington or the Mahaicony hospitals in Region 5, when both the Georgetown Hospital (Region 4) and the New Amsterdam Hospital (Region 6) are much better staffed and are more equipped to treat patients with chronic illnesses. As a Member of Parliament, I get -- all the time -- complaints of shortages of essential drugs at the Fort Wellington Hospital. Some even complain about the lack of laboratory services, which may

have been due to low voltage coming from GPL power and plaguing the hospital for some time. But, thanks to the intervention of Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson, GPL has recently installed a new transformer, and efforts are being made to secure a second one for the sole use of the hospital. The APNU+AFC Administration needs to place much greater priority on the healthcare of our citizens. A brand new building to house a health centre was built by the PPP/C Administration at Plantation Experiment, on the West Coast of Berbice; but because of the 2015 general election, this building was never commissioned, and remains an empty shell, unstaffed and unequipped to this day. Perhaps RHO Dr. Cheefoon or Public Health Minister Dr. Norton can explain the reason why the APNU+AFC Administration is allowing this healthcare facility building to go to waste. The money being spent to secure an inappropriate and ridiculously expensive pharmaceutical storage bond from a campaign contributor could have made this facility

functional for a lot less, extending critical healthcare services to the residents of Bath/Experiment communities. But then again, this would have been considered a PPP stronghold and not worthy of the investment. Undoubtedly, more needs to be done to provide a better and more efficient healthcare service to our people. It is time for the sector to be fully computerized, to allow doctors to view patients’ medical histories from a computer screen or printout before treating those patients. This will save lives, reduce medical malpractice, improve efficiency, and significantly cut the waiting time for a patient to see a doctor. As of now, a doctor in a public hospital has little or no knowledge of a patient’s medical history before he/she is treated, and this can be dangerous to the successful diagnosis and treatment of our loved ones. The status quo cannot be allowed to continue if real value is placed on the wellbeing of our citizenry. Regards, HARRY GILL, MP (PPP/C)

I’m ready to go 8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

…GECOM Chairman, Dr. Steve Surujbally writes gov’t on retirement

SURUJBALLY has indicated to government his readiness to demit office and has recommended a raft of measures to reform the commission, which he believes is at times hamstrung by political brinkmanship. However, the government while accepting Surujbally’s position has insisted on him creating the platform for seamless transition of his successor. According sources, government has made it clear to Surujbally that effective on the day of him demitting office will be the date of the assumption of office, (swearing in of the new chairman.) Additionally, government has insisted that all arrangements and decisions be made to ensure that the secretariat is stable and that the work programme of the commission continues seamlessly. Surujbally has been at the helm of GECOM since 2001. Meanwhile, at a news conference Tuesday morning, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party, Clement Rohee said at a

Chairman of GECOM, Dr Steve Surujbally

recently held Central Executive Committee meeting “the urgency of GECOM’s chairman to demit office was emphasised especially in the light of corruptions, allegations that are now being surfaced and the failure of

GECOM to discharge its constitutional responsibilities in a fair and unbiased manner.” “We understand that Mr. Surujbally is soon to demit office. He has met with the President and he has met with Leader of the Opposition, and

the formalities have been put in place. So it seems as if our protest has paid off. I remember at some of these picketing exercises journalists would ask us how long we intend to continue with this picketing exercise and my response to them would be: ‘until our goals are achieved.’ Well from all indications one of our goals has been achieved. Contacted on the issue, Surujbally while not denying he has indicated to the President and opposition leader his intention to demit office, said he had since 2006 been asking to leave. “Rohee would know that since 2006 I wanted to resign when his party was winning elections. Surujbally insisted that he will resign, but this would happen during a seamless transition. Rohee said too that he understands that both Surujbally and the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield are on leave. “Mr. Surujbally is on leave pending the conclusion of his tenure, which will happen sometime in November I believe. Mr. Lowenfield

is on leave, his annual vocational leave, hoping that his contract which expires in March next year will be renewed. Our position is that Mr. Lowenfield’s contract ought not to be renewed, and that given the current investigation or audit that is taking place at GECOM, he should not return to office while the investigation is ongoing,” Rohee said. The PPP general secretary said too that “it is strange that no public announcement has been made so far on Mr. Surujbally demitting office and this is important because we would have to follow the Carter Centre formula, which has to do with the election or the identification of a new chairman of GECOM and that could take some time before we arrive there. All of these therefore have to be looked at in the context of the timeframe for elections either Local Government or General and Regional which are to be held in 2019 and 2020, respectively, so the time factor is of great consideration,” Rohee asserted.

He said too notwithstanding the fact that Surujbally is on official leave, “every single day he is in office, what he is doing there we do not know, but there is always grounds for suspicion when it comes to GECOM’s work. We understand the Mr. Lowenfield is also on leave, but he is almost every day at GECOM, if you are on leave you on leave, you can’t be on leave and still be at work. So it appears to me that they either getting rid of or discussing issues that the auditors and investigators will eventually be aiming at. I don’t want to speculate on this matter but at the same time we have to intelligently anticipate based on our experiences because we are not Johnny come lately with respect to elections in this country.” Dr Surujbally told the Guyana Chronicle that Mr Lowenfield was called out on leave to facilitate the ongoing audit.

Blankenburg fatal accident…

Woman charged with Driver ‘likely’ to be charged shortly having gun and narcotics MARK Halley, the driver involved in the recent fatal accident at Blankenburg, West Coast Demerara, was yesterday expected to give the police a statement regarding the circumstances under which the accident occurred, as charges are likely to be laid against him shortly. Halley and his common-law wife, Michelle Francis, both currently hospitalised, were last Tuesday involved in a tragic accident which claimed the lives of their two children, two-yearold Marvin Halley and seven-year-old Tina Francis; who were pronounced dead on arrival at the West Demerara Regional Hospital, and whose bodies were later taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Parlour at Best, WCD. ON HOLIDAY Reports are that young Tina, who lived with her mother’s family in Lethem, was spending the holidays

with her mother, brother and stepfather when the accident occurred. Both parents are now listed as stable at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), and are expected to be discharged this week.

Injured: Mark Halley and Michelle Francis Reports reveal that the mother, who was pregnant at the time of the accident, has since lost the baby by way of medical termination, which was necessary to save her life. Besides the children, she, 32-year-old Halley and policeman Casper Carter

were in the vehicle when the accident occurred. Carter was reportedly treated and discharged from the Leonora Cottage Hospital. HEADED TO PARIKA

Halley, a mason and parttime taxi driver, was reportedly driving Toyota Primo PVV 38, heading to Parika, East Bank Essequibo. He was carrying his family along for the drive when, at a section of the Blankenburg Public Road that is presently under construction, he lost control of the vehicle and crashed same into two others before it landed in a nearby drain. Traffic Chief Dion Moore has reportedly advised the contractor rehabilitating the roadway to place thereon reflectors and adequate reflectorised materials, along with information signs, warning signs, and command signs to guide road users, so they can get to their destinations safely.

AN EAST La Penitence, Georgetown woman was on Tuesday remanded to prison after she appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, charged wit h possession of narcotics. Forty–year–old Alexis Phillips of Powis Street, East La Penitence denied the allegation, which stated that

on September 16, 2016, she had in her possession 51 kilograms and 350 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. Phillips also app e a r e d o n T u e s d a y b efore city magistrate Fabayo Azore, charged with possession of a .38 revolver and two live matching rounds.

It is alleged that, on September 16, she also had the firearm and ammunition without being the holder of a firearm licence. Phillips has denied having the firearm and ammo in her possession on that date. Both matters have been adjourned to October 14.

Police say ‘ganja’ found in car trunk ON TUESDAY last, three men were arrested after the vehicle they were travelling in was intercepted with 4409 grams of cannabis during a Police operation along the No 51 Village Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice. This publication under-

stands that one of the men resides at Tucber Park, New Amsterdam; another at Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown; and the third is from Betsy Ground, Canje, Berbice. Based on reports, the men were heading to Springlands in a grey

Toyota 212 car when Police stopped them at a roadblock. Upon realising that the men were acting in a suspicious manner, the Police searched the vehicle and the marijuana was allegedly found in five separate plastic bags in the trunk.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

‘Operation Safeway’ nets hundreds of speedsters …as police get more radar guns, breathalyser kits ALMOST a week into “Operation Safeway”, the police have already arrested 41 persons for driving above the prescribed alcohol limit, and charged 356 persons with speeding. This is according to Traffic Chief, Dion Moore, who handed out various new equipment to divisional traffic heads at Traffic Headquarters, Eve Leary yesterday. Moore handed over 20 radars, 30 breathalyser kits, 100 traffic wands, 60 reflectorised vests and 100 traffic cones which will be used by all the respective divisions. ‘Operation Safeway’ is a joint effort of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, and the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), and is aimed at bringing an end to road accidents, as well as to ensure that drivers of motor vehicles adhere to the traffic laws. The operation will see traffic ranks on the road conducting rigid exercises throughout the country, but more especially in George-

town and on the East Bank and East Coast Demerara. There will also be an increase in traffic patrols, both day and night, and the re-introduction of spotting exercises, as well as an increase in the deployment of ranks in hot spots for accidents, and frequent use of radar guns to target speeding drivers, along with random breathalyser testing. Moore said the breathalysers and radars will be used to its fullest capacity, as ranks increase their visibility on the roadways. He said that along the East Bank corridor in “A” division (Georgetown/East Bank Demerara) has registered the most fatal accidents, followed by “C” Division (East Coast of Demerara), which is specifically under the police radar. “In all of the divisions, there will be ongoing operations by day and by night. By night, there will be more vehicular patrols, and within those patrols, you will find ranks performing random breathalyser testing,” Moore said, adding: “We emphasise the

“A” Division Traffic Officer, Superintendent R. Ashram (left) receiving one of the breathalyser testing kits yesterday from Traffic Chief, Superintendent Dion Moore in the presence of other divisional traffic heads

point that ranks performing duties on the road must at all times be visible, hence

ILO offers to help revise OSH action plan ‒ consultations begin today THE International Labour Organisation (ILO) has offered to help overhaul Guyana’s age-old Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) National Plan of Action, last revised in 1996. The Ministry of Social Protection (MSP) said in a statement yesterday that the ILO’s intervention begins today, and the organization will assist Guyana to update a number of key issues relative to the OSH sector. The ILO and the MSP are also today scheduled to hold a national consultation on the global agency’s menu of support for Guyana. This will be done at a forum to be held at the Herdmanston Lodge at Anira and Peter Rose streets in Queenstown, Georgetown. “In addition to helping (to bring) Guyana’s OSH Plan of Action in contemporary times,” the ministry says in

the statement, “the ILO is also scheduled to help develop its national profile on OSH.” According to a document pertaining to the proposed event, the ILO and the Government are expected to agree on a new national programme, which is expected to highlight Guyana’s priorities, objectives, and targets for “improving occupational safety and health within a pre-determined timeframe, and (determine) indicators to assess progress.” The MSP says the OSH modernisation plan is also expected to provide data on occupational accidents and diseases, high-risk industries and occupations, and a description of the national OSH system and its current capacity. “The overhauled policy will also include Guyana’s

commitment to preventing occupational accidents and diseases; the overarching principles undergirding its action on OSH; and the functions and responsibilities of the principal stakeholders.” Minister Keith Scott of the Ministry of Social Protection will deliver the feature address. Other speakers are: Ms. Lorene Baird, Permanent Secretary of the MoSP; Mr. Lincoln Lewis, General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC); Mr. Kenneth Joseph, General Secretary of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG); Mr. Samuel Goolsarran, Consultant/ Advisor of the Consultative Association of Guyanese Industries (CAGI); and Ms. Claudia Coenjaerts, Director, Decent Work Team and Office for the ILO’s Caribbean Office.

the need for reflectorised vests; this will enhance their capability in terms of

drivers recognising them.” He said that over 200 traffic ranks will be on the

roadways working a 24/7 shift system, particularly at nights.

Police advise...

Don’t tantalise colleagues at work

‒ after MMC guard shoots dead company driver By Michel Outridge FOLLOWING the Saturday morning shooting at Mekdeci Mining Company (MMC) at Happy Acres, East Coast Demerara, police in ‘C’ Division are calling on citizens to refrain from tantalising their colleagues at work since it can become deadly very quickly. It was about 8am when a seemingly ‘normal’ security guard went berserk and shot at a group of colleagues, killing a father of four, Hubert Verwayne and injuring another at the MMC Security Service headquarters at Lot 95-99 Commercial Boulevard, Happy Acres, ECD. The suspect, who remains in police custody, reportedly told detectives that “they keep f*^#* around my daughter,” and he seemed to be in a daze. Sleuths said the man is

not saying anything much but made it known that he was being tantalised by his colleagues at the worksite, causing him to lose control. Police reported that they are seeking legal advice but they have taken statements from several eyewitnesses and the suspect is likely to make his first court appearance this week. According to the wife of the deceased, Shelly Verwayne, a postmortem examination on Monday morning revealed that her loved one died from a gunshot injury to the chest. MMC driver, Hubert Verwayne will be laid to rest next week Tuesday. Meanwhile, when contacted on Monday management of MMC refused to comment, stating that the police are investigating and the injured staff was treated and is recuperating. Police reported that the

incident occurred about 08:00h Saturday morning at the Security Service’s Office at Happy Acres. Initial enquiries revealed that the driver was in the company of several other employees when the suspect, armed with a shotgun, approached in a rage, accusing the deceased and others of making ill remarks about his daughter and he then opened fire, killing Verwayne. One other employee received shotgun wounds to his left hand and was receiving medical attention. Verwayne, 36, of Lot 710 ‘Block 8’ Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, is said to have succumbed to a gunshot wound to his chest. He had been working with MMC Security Service for the past two and a half months and was a part-time Route 32 minibus driver.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

The contradiction of the pageant world By Akola Thompson

I CONTEMPLATED for a while whether or not I

should focus this week’s column on pageants, given the ones that were recently concluded.

For one thing, I try to focus on issues that are personally important, and which I feel deserve to be addressed.

So I had to sell myself on the idea of writing on pageants, because my ideas about pageants can often be very contradictory. On one hand, I see pageants as patriarchal institutions meant to oppress women, and I think they should be done away with; but me trying to impose my views that pageants should be banned can, in turn, be oppressive to women who willingly enter. Is that not so? On the other hand, I see pageants as possibly being an avenue to gain self-confidence and exposure. I also believe that, with much work, pageants can become good things. This contradictory belief system about pageants, I believe, comes partly from my very short experience with them. When I was 14, I signed up for a local pageant, because I felt like I needed to prove something to myself due to the image issues I had, and in some aspects still possess. So when I won, I felt better about myself, never really thinking about the implications that came with the win; because, aside from being only 14, I grew up in a culture that taught me it was perfectly okay to judge a woman on nothing other than her aesthetics. Even as I look back now, knowing all that I do, I still cannot overlook the part that that one pageant played in bolstering my self-confidence; and while I know not everyone enters a pageant to prove something to themselves, I feel that the majority of them do. And this can be a dangerous thing, because what if they don’t win? Do they go through life wondering if they are good enough? Maybe if pageants weren’t so beauty-centred, I’d have less of a problem with them, because while

there are segments such as talent, personality and questions, these segments too often appear to be there merely to quell public opinion that looks are all that matters. Because often when they want someone smart, they don’t want them too smart. We really don’t want contestants going past the generic answers about world peace. Now, do we? There are some who would say that pageants in Guyana are not so bad in that regard. However, I remember going to a Miss Earth Coronation in 2014 and hearing one of the organizers say that as long as their queen was beautiful, they were good; because brains can always come after. I don’t think I have ever heard anything so shallow before; and unfortunately, that is a belief that is embedded within the world of pageantry, because those were the ideals with which pageants began. It should be noted that pageants, as we know them today, were inspired in 1854 in part by P.T. Barnum, who hosted several contests for dogs, flowers and babies. However, when he attempted to have contests for women, many scorned the idea, as they believed it to be degrading; and, in several aspects, it was and still is. In 1921, however, there was the “Atlantic City’s Inter-City Beauty Contest”, which was more of a tourist attraction than a celebration of women; showing once again how women have, through the centuries, been commoditized. Unsurprisingly, this event was what formed modern day pageants. One of the funniest reactions to pageants I believe happened in the year 1971 at the Miss World Pageant. Bob Hope had rotten toma-

toes and flour bombs thrown at him by feminists who likened pageants to nothing more than a market in which women were the items being sold. That premise isn’t very far from the truth, as, while we can argue about pageants being simply an individual choice, there is no doubt that mainstream pageantry has had lasting effects on not only the women who participated, but women in general. It sells the idea that it is acceptable to measure a woman’s worth in terms of appearance, making it easier for us to be disrespected if we cannot fit a specific mould. So, are pageants really meant to be a celebration of beauty, or are they manifestations of sexism? I know of several women who feel empowered by pageants, and several women who feel oppressed by them. As it is now, though, I do not know whether I can buy into the empowerment argument regarding pageantry. And while I agree that self-empowerment comes in many forms, pageants started out as a manifestation of sexism and, over the years, in order to justify the continuance of this practice, it began selling itself as one of empowerment. I do think, however, that with a lot of work in terms of inclusivity, pageants can become platforms for women’s rights and empowerment; because, as it stands now, we’ll continue having generations of women whose image issues will see them going through life thinking they are not good enough. More of Akola Thompson’s work can be found on her website akolathompson.com. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to send them to akolathompson@hotmail.com.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Dataram, wife no-show in court

CITY magistrate Judy Latchman Tuesday ordered that an arrest warrant be issued for Barry Dataram and his common-law wife Anjanie Boodnarine after the two failed to attend court for ruling in the matter against them. The two, along with Kevin Charran and Trevor Gouveia, who were present at Tuesday’s hearing are charged for the possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. It was alleged that they were in possession of 129.230 kilogrammes (284 pounds) of cocaine on April 16, 2015 at Dataram’s house located at 661 Silver Dam, Fourth Avenue, Diamond Housing Scheme. Magistrate Latchman warned the other accused Gouveia and Charran to return to court on Friday, September 23, 2016 for the continuation of the trial. She told them that if they were not present on Friday arrest warrants would be issued. Defence Lawyer Glenn Hanoman told the court that Dataram was expected to appear in court on Tuesday. Hanoman related that he only

saw Gouveia and Charran but he did not see Dataram and Boodnarine. He added that he called Dataram and he said that he was on his way. Court was adjourned for a few minutes during which time Hanoman made several calls. Hanoman told the court that Dataram and Boodnarine had a good record of attendance so he was unsure

if an emergency might have prevented them from showing up. On Tuesday Magistrate Latchman was expected to make a ruling on whether a prima facie case was made out against Dataram and his co-accused. If the magistrate found that there was sufficient evidence against the accused, they would have been required to lead a defence.

No Ronald Jacobs working at GECOM-official RONALD Andy Jacobs, a former Chief Registration Officer of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has not been rehired by the Commission as contended by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). At his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Tuesday, PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee said the party has been reliably informed that Jacobs was reemployed by GECOM. Such a move, Rohee said signals “a dark side” for the Commission, if proven to be true. “Mr. Jacobs was a former Chief Registration Officer at GECOM prior to the 1992 elections and he was re-

sponsible for what I would describe as messing up the voters’ list with a whole host of irregularities contained therein, as a result of which elections had to be postponed, and the Carter Centre had to intervene along with many other stakeholders to have a new voters’ list,” Rohee said as he sought to put issue into context. According to Rohee, Jacobs’ service was subsequently terminated due to his perceived “incompetence.” “He was totally incompetent and was not worthy of performing the functions, not only of a Chief Registration Officer but a Chief Elections Officer in those days at GECOM,” the PPP General

Secretary added. Upon learning of the rehiring of Jacobs, Rohee wrote the GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield enquiring about the matter. A letter was also copied to the Chairman of the Commission Dr. Steve Surujbally, who subsequently indicated that Lowenfield is currently on vocational leave and the letter should be directed to the Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Vishnu Persaud. However, Guyana Chronicle was told by a high ranking official in the Commission that Jacobs was never rehired by the Commission. According to the official, Jacobs was not in the employ of GECOM long before 2001 – more than 15 years ago.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Guyanese deported from ‘Bim’ ‒ over schoolgirl incident A GUYANESE national was on Monday handed over to Barbados immigration officials after appearing in the island’s District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court on an assault charge. The 48-year-old farmer of Apartment #1 Arrindell, Government Hill, St Mi-

chael, who only goes by the name ‘Mankad’, pleaded guilty to the offence, which reportedly occurred on Saturday. According to the facts read by police prosecutor Sergeant Neville Watson, ‘Mankad’ was sitting on a bus next to a teenaged girl

when he placed his hand on her thigh and caressed it. The teenager reportedly pushed his hand away, and moved to a different section on the bus before taking a picture and alerting her mother about the situation. It was the girl’s mother who contacted the police. The teen later pointed out the accused, who was in Speightstown at the time, to

the police. In his defence, ‘Mankad’, who said he only has vision in his right eye and was on his way to sell hammocks when the incident allegedly occurred, told Magistrate Douglas Frederick that he did not mean the girl any harm. He admitted touching her, but said it was a mistake and that it happened when the bus turned and he was

left struggling to hold on to the “three big bags” he had with him. The magistrate then called the virtual complainant, who was accompanied by her parents, to the witness stand, and explained to her what ‘Mankad’ had said, before he offered an apology. “I am sorry... I just come to make a dollar; I didn’t mean to do no harm to you,”

‘Mankad’ said, to which the magistrate replied: “As a young girl, she did what was right and her parents took the necessary action.” ‘Mankad’ was subsequently reprimanded and discharged, before he was handed over to the immigration authorities. (Excerpted from Barbados Today News)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Aries Sometimes you leave too many things for the last minute yet there are only so many hours in the day to be productive. Nevertheless, you might actually believe you can breeze through your chores in the flash of a moment. Unfortunately, if you buy into this premise today, you will end up annoyed with your bad judgment call while others will be disappointed with your performance. Instead of playing a losing game of “Beat the Clock,” create a more realistic delivery schedule and inform everyone of your plans before you bump up against the deadlines. Be proactive, not reactive. Taurus The baton is being passed to you and you’re eager to run your leg of the race. If you are involved in a group project at work, it might be your turn to step up and do your part. Thankfully, you could surprise everyone with your mental and physical agility today. But don’t commit to any more than you can accomplish. In fact, it’s healthier to underestimate your ability and dash your associate’s hopes early on than waiting until later. Your motto for the day is promise less, deliver more. Gemini Your moods may swing one way and then the other while the dualistic Gemini Moon is bouncing around in your versatile sign. However, you can’t shake the notion that nothing matters and any action you take today will be for naught. But nothing could be further from the truth as your key planet Mercury appears to stop his backtracking, readying to turn direct tomorrow. This is a pivotal point and although you might not see immediate results from your work, everything you do now opens a portal into your future. Small acts are catalysts for big change. Cancer You’re happy to work quietly behind the scenes today, knowing that your efforts will have the intended impact. At times you need immediate acknowledgment from your peers or you grow insecure about your role. However, you’re confident that others appreciate your contribution now, even if you aren’t in the spotlight. Just continue on your present course without trying to impress anyone because your actions speak louder than words. President Harry S. Truman said, “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” Leo You might not be finished with a project, but that fact won’t stop you from gazing far off into the future. All the signs today tell you to focus on the details so you can finally be done with your previous commitments. Nevertheless, the Moon’s shift into your 11th House of Long-Term Goals keeps calling your imagination away from the present moment as you visualise all the possibilities ahead. However, you are in control of your destiny whether or not you realise it. Each time you drift in an unproductive direction, redirect your thoughts back to the here and now. Clear your plate to make room for more. Virgo You are weary of running around in circles, wondering if you’re making any progress at all. It’s as if you are Ulysses, fighting the many-headed Hydra; each problem you solve is replaced by two more. Nevertheless, mischievous Mercury in your detail-oriented sign ends its retrograde dance tomorrow, freeing you from the endless red tape entangling your world. But celebrations will need to wait; there’s still another fire or two that must be contained before you are allowed to move on. Be a warrior, not a worrier. Libra Others see you as a wide-open book, but you are probably harbouring secret tales that cannot yet be shared. Although you’re quite adept at being discreet when necessary, you’re tired of monitoring every little word while the Sun and retrograde Mercury wreak havoc in your 12th House of Invisibility. Thankfully, the Sun struts into your sign tomorrow and Mercury turns direct, giving you clearance to share the untold story. In the meantime, put all your ducks in a row so you’re ready to take centre stage when the curtain finally opens. Scorpio One of your strengths is your ability to talk about issues that others avoid. The chatty Gemini Moon’s current stay in your 8th House of Deep Sharing allows you to approach a sensitive topic in a light and easy manner so others are not frightened off. Although it’s tempting to stall a few more days before you initiate a much-needed discussion to clear the air, your window of opportunity could close faster than you expect. Take advantage of this planetary energy before the Sun slips into your 12th House of Privacy tomorrow. Don’t wait for the perfect moment; instead, take the moment and make it perfect. Sagittarius Everyone seems to be acting unpredictably today and it’s hard to tell if they are flakey or if it’s you that is fickle. Nevertheless, the changeable Gemini Moon is floating through your 7th House of Others, creating the illusion that you can’t rely on anyone. You don’t know what to think if someone is overly serious one minute and then lost in a whimsical fantasy the next. In fact, the noise of the outer world complicates any decision you must make now. However, you’ll know when something is real when the confusion vanishes and the truth suddenly seems so obvious it smacks you in the face. Capricorn You possess a surplus of secret weapons in your arsenal and you’re willing to use them when needed. Although quick fixes might seem impossible, you can pull a rabbit out of a hat today. However, there’s no magic involved -- just your impressive ability to accomplish a job in a timely manner. But don’t push your luck by setting unrealistic goals now; you can make miracles happen only if you focus on solutions and not the problems. Aquarius Trying to meet all your commitments is an uphill battle today, especially if you’re captivated by one intriguing idea after another. Although your mind is in exploration mode, you’re still expected to apply yourself to the tasks on your list. You can fulfill your obligations, but it will take an exerted effort to follow the path leading to completion. In the words of Alexander Graham Bell, “Concentrate all your thoughts upon the work at hand. The Sun’s rays do not burn until brought into focus.” Pisces Replaying precious moments from your past takes you on a sentimental journey today, but the urgency of unfinished business could be a rude awakening. The Moon’s current visit to your 4th House of Roots brings solace from a trip down Memory Lane while distracting you from the inescapable pressures of your career. Balancing the inner and outer worlds is tricky, especially if you try to do it alone. Sharing your dilemma with someone you trust may lead to a surprising breakthrough. The emotional support of a friend might be all you need to get back on track.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Pit-bull rampage...

Police need help identifying dead man THE Guyana Police Force is seeking the assistance of the public with identifying the remains of a destitute man who was mauled to death by a band of roving pit bulls last Thursday. The police said in a statement yesterday that the body was found last Thursday at Parafield, an area in Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD), and is currently at

the Ezekiel Funeral Home at Best. They say that the body appears to be that of a male East Indian, about 55 years old, five feet in height, medium built and fair in complexion. The pit bulls that attacked and killed the man also injured several other persons on the same day. The dogs reportedly be-

The house where the owner of the dogs, Ms Marceline Basdeo-Small lives

long to one Marceline Basdeo-Small, of Lot 87, Lenora Parafield, WCD. According to the police, the gate to the property was left opened, and Bas-

deo-Small has since been placed on $100,000 station bail, while investigations are continuing, pending the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Residents said the dead man had been in the area for the past several months, and is only known as “Boxer�. Reports reveal that the band of four dogs also injured three other men, and a 13-year-old boy of Parika, East Bank Essequibo. They were all attacked and bitten before the destructive carnivores turned their attention to sheep in the

neighbourhood. Residents claim that the owner purposely ignored the cries and pleas for help from the victims. Two of the victims have been identified as Messrs Ramanand Bhikam, 62, and Wilbert Adams of Stewartville Housing Scheme and Cornelia Ida respectively, both WCD addresses. Several residents told this publication that they had made several reports before to the Lenora Police Station regarding attacks by the very dogs, but to no avail.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Region 10 farmers lobbying for training in agro-processing REGION 10 farmers are excited about getting involved in agro-processing, thus adding value to their produce. Having taken the advice of President David Granger in this regard, the farmers are, however, lobbying to be trained in this field, so as to master its skills and intricacies. Chairman of the Agricultural Committee, Douglas Gittens, in representing the farmers to express this desire, posited that agro-processing training is currently being carried out by the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI), and he would be petitioning for the farmers to benefit from this. Region 10 farmers cultivate coconuts, ground provision and citrus fruits in communities such as West Watooka, Dalawalah, Moblissa, and Block 22. During his last visit to Linden, President Granger encouraged residents to become engaged in agro-processing and value-added production, rather than migrating in search of jobs. Recognising that the glory days of bauxite were long gone, and therefore that commodity could not sustain the Region 10 economy, President Granger encouraged Lindeners to look for new sources of employment. “Right now, the bauxite industry is facing challenges and is not providing the sort of employment it provided 50 years ago. It means that people have to look for new sources of employment,” the President advised. With the unemployment rate in Linden, and by extension Region 10, reportedly being high, the President explained that self-employment could be created, and Linden had rich potential for that to happen. “Employment is right here in Region 10, and if you have the education and you have the opportunity, you will be able to (obtain)

employment -- satisfying employment and profitable employment -- right here. You can do this by agro-processing; you can do this by value-added production. You can produce citrus, you can produce soursop, you can produce guava; but make those products into guava jam and guava jelly and guava cheese; into soursop drink, into passion fruit drink…. You can stay right here in Region 10 and get rich,” he challenged. One farmer following this advice is Owen De Souza. The coconut farmer of Block 22 Wismar started adding value to his coconut production by producing virgin coconut oil for export and to supply the local market. With this move, De Souza testified, he is able to sufficiently provide for his family, and has even hired a helper in the process. “I started grating like five coconuts, and then 10 and 15: and then I employed someone, and then together we grated like 30, and then we realized that we could grate more. So we grate 50, and then we grate 100, and then I got to realize that this grating thing is too strenuous and too much concentration, so I went to Nabaclis on the East Coast (of Demerara) and took photos of the factory we grew up in and returned to Linden and made my own machine,” he said. With the availability of the machine, De Souza is now better able to address the growing demand for coconut oil. Moblissa farmer Sonia started adding value to her produce of citrus fruits by manufacturing jam and ‘fruits’ for cake. “I seh…the five-finger and cashew (just) wasting on the ground, cause people in buying it so raw. I decided to make fruits and jam, and I ain’t regret it… now people does come to order to carry outside (overseas) all,” Sonia related.

Gittens is also lobbying for a Department of Agriculture to be established in the region, with sub divisions in aquaculture and livestock. He is of the opinion that this establishment would

bring an end to some of the challenges being faced by farmers within the region, as more money would be granted to the sector. “This will bring a budget to the region; this will

enhance our department, because they cannot deal with certain things and they cannot report to the region,” Gittens argued, adding that the department would be able to budget for specific

things needed to boost agriculture in the region. The farmers are also seeking an audience with Agriculture Minister Noel Holder to discuss burning issues.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Guyana seeks stronger ties with Chile

GUYANA is looking forward to working closely with Chile in number of areas, Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo told a reception to mark Chile’s 206th independence anniversary Monday evening. Prime Minister Nagamootoo, performing the duties of President, said Guyana anticipates working closely with Chile to further explore and pursue bilateral cooperation projects in areas such as Health, Science and Technology, Education, Culture and Security. “We value our excellent relations with Chile and it is our desire to continue exploring ways in which our relations can be further strengthened in the

years ahead,” the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister told the gathering at last evening’s reception to mark Chile’s 206th independence anniversary that strong bilateral relations with countries such as Chile can only be mutually beneficial. “President (David) Granger’s acceptance of the kind invitation of President (Michelle) Bachelet to visit Chile later this year, reiterates Guyana’s interest in solidifying the existing friendly relations between our two countries,” he said. Guyana remains committed to concluding two important bilateral agreements during President

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo performing the duties of President, toasts with Chilean Ambassador to Guyana Claudio Rachel Rojas, Honorary Consul to Chile, Yesu Persaud along with the spouse of the Prime Minister, and the Ambassador Granger’s intended visit to Chile – the Air Services Agreement, which will greatly enhance trade and

the movement of people between the two countries, and the Visa Abolition Agreement which will

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, and Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo pose with attendees at the reception in honour of Chile’s 206th Independence anniversary

allow citizens to travel between Guyana and Chile with greater ease. Chilean Ambassador to Guyana, His Excellency Claudio Rachel Rojas in his remarks said since he presented his credentials to Guyana, there has been significant progress in the two countries’ bilateral relations. “We perceive that Chile and Guyana have commonality in a strong democratic institution and commitment to develop our country in a peaceful and stable environment. What define these values are democracy economic growth and social development, human rights and international law,” Ambassador Rojas said. Prime Minister Nagamootoo further stated that Guyana also intends to continue to work closely with all South Amer-

ican neighbours on matters of mutual interest as the countries collectively strive to improve the lives and well-being of all the people of South America. Ambassador Rojas is the first resident diplomat from Chile since the country established formal diplomatic relations with Guyana, in 1971. Chile recently opened an embassy in Guyana. The Prime Minister noted that the inauguration of the embassy by President Bachelet during her visit to Guyana sent a clear message about Chile’s interest in enhancing existing relations with the countries in the region. Bachelet visited Guyana during the 37th Heads of Government Meeting of CARICOM in July. (GINA)

Brickdam Secondary back up and running ––New locale sees mixed reaction TEACHERS and students of the Brickdam Secondary School are reportedly pleased with their new abode, at the former St. Pius Primary in East La Penitence. According to the Headmistress, Mrs. Shandrina Welcome-Lee, they are not completely settled, as boxes are still to be unpacked, but she is very much pleased with the new building. As she explained, the Ministry of Education has done extensive work to bring the facility up to speed

and besides an office for the Deputy Headteacher, they have also built a Home Economics laboratory. Work, she said, is currently being done to give them an Integrated Science laboratory, and proper fencing around the school. SEATING RUMOUR Asked specifically about rumours going the rounds that the school could not be opened on time because of the lack of furniture, Mrs. Wel-

come-Lee said this was furthest from the truth, as there’s always been enough seating to accommodate the 450 students on roll. She, however, said that what may have started the rumour was the fact that over 100 children were transferred by their parents for various reasons, chief among them being their distrust of the location. But Mrs. Welcome-Lee and her staff have no such reservations. “We are fully comfortable,” she said, “and

look forward to growing as a school. I hope parents allow their children to proceed with us.” She was roundly supported by a teacher, who said: “I am satisfied with the building as a temporary location; it is a massive improvement from the previous building, and I am holding the Ministry to its word on being placed here for a year and a term.” SECURITY ISSUES On the issue of security, she said, “Some parents worry about the area, however, promises were made by the Chief Educational

Officer to increase security guards.” Although many students are pleased with the new classroom setting, proper washroom facilities, and new canteen and a library, some are still timid because of the reputation the area has, being close to such trouble-spots as Laing Avenue and East and West Ruimveldt. One Grade Seven student recalled being followed by a male one day, but thankfully, she was not harassed in any way, but still feared for her well-being due to the rumours. She is not alone. Another teacher told the Guyana

Chronicle, “I am not comfortable with the area, but students are advised to walk in groups as well as the teachers.” Back in early June, teachers of the Brickdam Secondary did a sit-in after their numerous demands for better work and educational facilities fell on deaf ears. They’d alleged that over the years, there were many complaints to the Ministry of Education pertaining to the hazardous and unsanitary conditions students and teachers faced daily. Eventually, a decision was taken by the ministry to close down the dilapidated building.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Baby suffers fractured skull during birth By Svetlana Marshall

A NOW one-month-old baby is suffering from a fractured skull after he literally dropped out of his mother’s womb when nurses at the Georgetown Hospital allegedly ignored her early pleas to be taken to the delivery room. This case comes amid deep concerns over pre and post-natal care in the public health system here. On August 21, Nyesha Hamilton of Paradise Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, arrived at the Georgetown Hospital at approximately 22:00h with the expectation of having a normal delivery, only to have her hopes dashed. In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, the mother of two said upon her arrival at the Maternity Ward, she was examined by two doctors. “Two doctors examined me. One of them said I was 4cm; the other one said I was 5cm, so they took me in the pre-natal room,” the young mother said. Minutes after the doctors left, she said, the labour

GNA Executive Director, Ms Grace Bond pains intensified, and she began to bleed and vomit simultaneously. “I called one of the midwives and told her that I was bleeding, and she turn and tell me there isn’t anything she could do now, because they usually do the examination every four hours,” Hamilton recalled. IN FULL LABOUR Then, approximately 10 minutes after, the 21-yearold reportedly sought the help of one of the nurses, after realising that she was going into labour.

“I tell her that the baby head is already coming down. There wasn’t any wheelchair in the room, so she said let us start walking to the delivery room, while another nurse get the wheelchair,” Hamilton said. According to the young mother, she repeatedly told the nurse that she couldn’t go any further; that she was

––mother wants deep probe, compensation

August 22) that the baby was sent to have a CAT (computerized tomography)-scan done to determine the magnitude of the injuries it sustained. UNUSUAL

Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton When this newspaper contacted the Matron’s Office for a comment, we were told that the Matron is currently on leave. The person who took the call declined to disclose his identity and wanted to know why, after one month had passed, the matter was only now being reported.

21-year-old Nyesha Hamilton and her newborn, Ricardo Hamilton who is currently recovering from internal bleeding and a fractured skull in labour, but all she was told in response was to continue walking. “As soon as we reach the second door where the washroom is, I actually stoop down to catch the baby, but it was too late; the baby fall out. I didn’t want it fall with me standing, because I know the injuries would have been worse, so I stoop to save him,” she explained. That was around 10:20hrs. On seeing this, Hamilton said, the nurse who was accompanying her panicked. So, too, did her colleague who had joined them on the way to the labour room. “They didn’t want to pick him up; they were afraid,” Hamilton said, adding that it was only after the baby was born that the promised wheelchair arrived. “You know what is the sad part? After my baby fall, they didn’t do no check-up nothing; they pretended as though it was a normal delivery and send me to the Maternity Ward with my baby,” she said. It was not until 13:30h the following day (Monday,

SWELLING Said the mother, “The swelling started on the Monday, but is till in the afternoon when the doctor came and saw the swelling that the CAT-scan was done.” She would later be told that her son had suffered a fractured skull from the fall, and that he was bleeding internally. “They said it was the internal bleeding that caused the swelling,” Hamilton said. Next he started to vomit. After this had gone on for three days, the baby, who was by now named Ricardo, was removed from the care of his mother in the Maternity Ward and taken to the Nursery where he remained for 13 days before being discharged. Now, little Ricardo is required to see a neuro-surgeon regularly at the GPHC. His mother is not happy with this, and is calling on the hospital’s administration and the Ministry of Public Health to launch an investigation into the incident. She’s also hoping to have all related health expenses for her baby paid in full by the hospital.

NO COVER-UP Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton, when

He further said that based on his discussion with the nurses on duty, Hamilton’s amniotic sac, commonly called the ‘water bag’, was still intact, and it is common practice to have the pregnant woman walk as a form of exercise. “It was not mismanagement; we do have wheelchairs in the ward; it was in the passageway, but by the time one of the nurses got one, she had already delivered,” Dr Norton said. The matter was also raised with Executive Director of the Guyana Nurses Association (GNA), Ms Grace Bond, who said such an occurrence should have never happened. She said that while she is aware that medical protocol stipulates that a Vaginal Examination (VE) or a Pelvic Examination should be done every four hours to prevent inspection upon admission, the nurses, upon realising that Hamilton was in labour, should have done the delivery within the pre-natal ward, given the circumstances.

livery in the prenatal room; the nurse wasn’t thinking,” she added. In her opinion, the required instruments could have been taken to the pre-natal room, where a safe delivery could have been conducted. Bond said while the Midwives Association is known for conducting workshops to enhance the skills of midwives, what happened to Hamilton was not a matter of skill, but of attitude. “To me, it is more about attitude and not the skill of the midwife that is in question here. The whole attitude of nurses is unbecoming,” she contended. Bond said nurses and midwives must do more for their clients. “Many times when I go to the classroom and I speak with nurses and even here at the GNA, I would always remind them that they must put themselves in the client’s place. If they are a patient, what they would want for the nurse to say or do for them? How would they like to be treated?”

The Maternity Ward of the Georgetown Public Hospital where the incident occurred contacted, said, “Nobody is denying that it happened,” but refuted claims that the hospital is trying to cover up the incident. According to him, reports from the nurse on duty, the nurse in charge of the ward at the time the incident occurred, the pediatrician and the neurosurgeon were submitted to the hospital’s administration.

“If the mother complains that the baby is coming, certainly something has to be done, instead of having her walk to the labour room,” Bond said. WASN’T THINKING “The option was to have a chair; there was no chair. Instead of having her walk, she could have had the de-

The GNA Executive Director is also of the opinion that stern action should be taken against nurses who fail to execute their mandates in keeping with the Nightingale Pledge. Last November, a baby fell off the cot on which he was placed within an hour of birth at the GPHC resulting in head injuries.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Baracara Residents refuse to sign off on substandard work -until contractor remedies same

RESIDENTS of Baracara, a community along the Canje River in East Berbice, are displeased with the substandard work being done to the revetment just outside an area which houses the village’s lone primary school and health and community centres. The relevant signatories are refusing to sign the document that signals their approval of the work done, thus the contractor has been unable to receive his $7.1M payment. Their protest action held last week has resulted in the Region Six Senior Superintendent of Works, Mr. Ruhullah Ali, visiting the riverine community last Wednesday, accompanied by Regional Works Committee member

Mr. Edwin Abdullah, contactor Mark Gupta, and members of the print media. During an inspection of the works, it was noticed that the back filling had been poorly done, and was not completed to specification. Further, walkways were damaged and were not re-erected. Several piles were protruding from the ground, constituting a hazard, as children and older persons have to access the areas. It was suggested that those should be flattened or filled over. It was further noticed that Bullet Wood, the specified lumber, had not been used. At least 15 per cent of the work needs to be completed before payment is allowed. Thus the contractor is to re-

turn to the area with his machinery, including a dredge, to complete the job, which will now cost approximately G$1M, but that will be at his expense. Meanwhile, CDC Chairman Mr. Marshall Thompson said he was unaware of the project, and had not seen the bill of quantities during the initial stages of the project. He said he became aware of the situation only after a delegation from the Regional Administration visited last month, when the Bill of Quantities was first presented, long after the project had commenced. Thompson said regional officials had not consulted anyone on their plans, nor had they disclosed what money

was available to execute those plans, nor is he aware who is the engineer that had done the measurement, as he is yet to see the person on site. However, although the work is yet to be completed, the Chairman said and he three other residents had, for a few days, worked as labourers on the project, which is continuing with a workforce from outside the community. “Personally, I believe they should have consulted the CDC staff, as we are not aware of the contract or the price,” Thompson said, adding: “If consultations were done, we would have suggested that the revetment be extended at least a hundred feet outwards, because the protruding areas are dry land; and it seems as though there is some sort of corruption, as residents should be made

aware of what is happening in their community.” Adding her comments, Headmistress Kim Sampson said that when the revetment work commenced, it included the front of the school, yet no one had either consulted or informed her about the Bill of Quantities. However, two weeks ago, she was introduced to the contractor, who now wants her to affix her signature to the document approving the unsatisfactory work done. “The materials, I was told, (had) to be Bullet Wood; they used instead young Mora,” Sampson said. “That was why the residents had stopped the work; the Mora had worm holes. The revetment should protrude more, and add dirt to fill the area; but, instead the already solid area was

CDC Chairman Marshall Thompson

graded by the machinery. They should not have graded the area; they should have brought dirt and filled the area… I did not know what was to be done; they said nothing, but now they want me to sign for the contractor to get payment,” she complained.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Major investors interested in ICT sector – Go-Invest CEO Continuous development in the area of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is signalled for Guyana as interests and applications for investments in the sector have been submitted to the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest). The agency’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Owen Verwey told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that, “specifically, Information Communication and Technology is an interest in this market for the call centres or what they call business processing outsourcing. We have had two major clients, and we have got others that are interested in this market.” This aspect of ICT investment garners the opportunity for job creation and modernisation of the local ICT market. The CEO further added that due to restructuring of the application process to make it more efficient, there has been a delay in the process’ completion. “Those are the areas in which we have been seeing applications coming, and they have been processed pretty well so far. There was some slowdown in how

Owen Verwey, Chief Executive Officer, Guyana Office for Investment

those are being processed because the processes were changing and we are getting to the bottom of that, have been moving forward,” Verwey explained. Minister of Public Telecommunications Catherine Hughes, in a recent press statement pointed out the importance of having ICT systems and networks implemented in Guyana. Minister Hughes said, “Here we are talking about an interconnected digital platform that will provide government services to citizens in an efficient, cost effective and time saving manner. It is about establishing 21st century systems that can manage all government

Wednesday, September 21, 2016 - 08:30 hrs Thursday, September 22, 2016 - 09:30 hrs Friday, September 23, 2016 - 10:30 hrs

and private sector data in a safe and secure manner.” In 2010, Guyana secured a US$32M loan from the China Export Import (EXIM) bank with an aim of developing ICT infrastructure to facilitate an E-government network. The network is expected to be further expanded to provide internet access to schools and governmental agencies while increasing bandwidth and improving the levels of internet ac-

cessibility. The Ministry of Business is currently working to have two call centres at Enmore, East Coast Demerara and Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo fully operationalised shortly. With the implementation of ICT systems through investments, Guyana is expected to provide better technological services, thereby enhancing communication, and information access and data storage. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Brooklyn Tabernacle hosts Leaders Conference tomorrow THE Brooklyn Tabernacle, a multicultural, non-denominational church located in Brooklyn, New York, will on Thursday host a life-changing Pastors/ Leaders Conference at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown. Proceedings are slated to last from 19:00 hrs to 22:00 hrs. Delivered free of charge to participants, this conference targets pastors, associate pastors, worship leaders and others in church/ministry and leadership positions throughout Guyana. The main presenter is Pastor Jim Cymbala, who will speak on the subject “Preparing for God’s blessing on our Ministries and Churches”. He is accompanied by his wife, Carol.

Also visiting is Karen Rampersad, a featured soloist of the Grammy Award-winning Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Pastor and Mrs. Cymbala are directors of the Grammy Award winning Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Credited as a church for ‘worshipping God and loving others’, the Brooklyn Tabernacle has a membership of some 10,000, drawn from all walks of life and diverse ethnic and national origins. Central to the growth and outreach of Brooklyn Tabernacle is strong emphasis on prayer. Prayer meetings held there, at which the Prayer Band features prominently, are devoted to interceding for needs from around the world. Excited about coming

Pastor Jim Cymbala

to Guyana, Pastor and Mrs. Cymbala eagerly look forward to the occasion. Meanwhile, the host committee wishes to thank those who have registered to participate, and to advise others that registration is now closed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE WEDNESDAY SEPT 21, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Cuba volleyball players jailed ... From back page

ahead of the Rio Olympics when the rape took place at the hotel in which the players were staying. LENGTHY ORDEAL The court heard that two of the players had met the woman in a nightclub in the hotel basement. She later went to the room of one of the men, Uriarte Mestre, and consented to sex. However, Uriarte Mestre was then said to have texted the other men without the woman’s knowledge. They entered the room and subjected the woman to a lengthy ordeal and held her by the hair to prevent her leaving. When she was eventually allowed to leave, she complained to the hotel receptionist who called po-

lice. The men had denied the accusation, insisting the woman had given consent. However, the court ruled they were guilty of aggravated rape and ordered the men to pay €24 000 (£20 500; $27 000)

in compensation to the victim. As the allegations emerged, two of the team coaches were sacked. Despite its depleted squad, Cuba fielded a team in Rio and lost all five of their matches. (BBC Sport)

Preparatory works contract inked ... From back page Miniature Stadium which will be constructed in two phases.” GFF president Wayne Forde echoed the sentiments of his colleague, stating, “I think way overdue is putting it lightly,” adding “The plan is to have one high-quality playing facility in each association and not to be left to the mercy of nature during the rainy season.” The process was no easy one, commented Forde. “They needed to take their time to ensure transparency and that it can stand up to scrutiny in any way. On our end, we took our time to ensure the process was done in a particular way. Now we move to the action and to get things done.” Contractor Dwain Ferdinand committed to the project, adding, “Our company is equipped to take the project and have many different equipment which will be used efficiently to complete the project in the shortest possible time.” The facility is being constructed in the Eccles/ Ramsburg district for which the federation, under the Normalisation Committee, had signed a 30-year lease in 2015.

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Greyv ille 08:50 hrs Jama 09:25 hrs Maybe 10:00 hrs Kingston Boy 10:35 hrs Var Du Bois 11:10 hrs ALL True Man ENGLISH RACING TIPS Goodwood 09:00 hrs Monarchs Glen 09:35 hrs Admirality Arch 10:10 hrs Fadillah 10:45 hrs Mount Logan 11:20 hrs Daphne 11:55 hrs Upavon 12:25 hrs Stormflower REDCAR 09:10 hrs Dream Team 09:45 hrs Fleetfoot Jack 10:20 hrs Andalusite 10:55 hrs Crystal Dome 11:30 hrs Ray’s The Money 12:05 hrs Chiswick Bey 12:35 hrs Niblawi 13:05 hrs Ypres PERTH

09:20 hrs Our Cat 09:55 hrs Northandsouth 10:30 hrs Shan Dun Na Ngall 11:05 hrs By The Boardwalk 11:40 hrs Landecker 12:15 hrs Atlantic King 12:45 hrs Mad Money IRISH RACING TIPS Naas 09:30 hrs Magnification 10:05 hrs Noivado 10:40 hrs Courage Under Fire 11:15 hrs Tilly Trotter 11:50 hrs Allography 12:20 hrs Boom Or Bush 12:50 hrs Kryptos AMERICAN RACING TIPS Belmont Race 1 Cause You Can Race 2 Captain Serious Race 3 Port More Race 4 Richmond Secret Race 5 Frosty Lady Race 6 Animal Appeal Race 7 Heated Verdict Race 8 Ack Naughty Race 9 Priest N the Rabbi

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Toure ‘must apologise’ before he plays again - Guardiola By Alan Baldwin LONDON, England (Reuters) - Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure will

not play for Manchester City again until the Premier League club receives an apology for comments made by his agent, man-

ager Pep Guardiola said yesterday. “He must apologise. If he doesn’t, he won’t play,” Guardiola told reporters.

PEP GUARDIOLA The 33-year-old player’s agent Dimitri Seluk, who had said Toure felt “humiliated” after being left out of City’s Champions League squad, hit back in similarly uncompromising fashion. “What do I need to apologise for?,” he asked Sky Sports television. “Guardiola wins a few games and thinks he is a king. I live in Europe so I can say whatever I like and Guardiola can’t stop me. “I will apologise to Guardiola if he will apologise to (former City manager) Manuel Pellegrini for what he did to him.” Toure, four-time African Footballer-of-the-Year, has been a mainstay of City’s midfield since joining from Guardiola’s Barcelona in 2010.

He has only played once this season, in the second leg of a Champions League playoff tie against Steaua Bucharest when City had a 5-0 lead from the first game. “It was difficult to leave him out of the Champions League squad but (the) day after, his (agent) went to the media. (Toure) has not had the courage to call me. From that moment he was out,” Guardiola said. The pair also clashed at Barcelona, with the player later telling a Spanish radio station that he felt forced out. “He pretty much ignored me until City’s offer came in. That’s why I eventually opted to leave. I didn’t speak to Guardiola for a year,” Toure said in 2011. “I did not want to go, and wanted to end my career at Barcelona. However, he had no faith in me.” Guardiola said then that he had tried to convince the Ivorian to stay. Toure, who had been tipped to leave after Guardiola joined from Bayern Munich in the close season, announced earlier yesterday his retirement from international football. “Writing this note was probably ‘the most difficult match of my life’,” he said,

adding that the decision was not to do with his age, intensity of training or number of games. “Football is everything to me. It gave me so many things in my career that now I don’t feel able to set new goals, as a player with the Elephants,” he said. Toure scored 19 goals in more than 100 appearances for Ivory Coast and captained his country to their first African Nations Cup win for 23 years in 2015. Manchester City, who have a 100 percent record in the league after five games, play Swansea City in the third round of the League Cup today.

YAYA TOURE

Fabregas double gives Chelsea comeback win By Toby Davis LONDON,(Reuters)-Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas scored twice in extra time as they fought back from two goals down to knock Premier League champions Leicester City out of the League Cup 4-2 yesterday. Spaniard Fabregas has played a bit-part role in Antonio Conte’s Chelsea side since the start of the season, but gave the manager a reminder of his talents with two neat finishes in the space of two minutes to turn the thirdround tie on its head. Everton were dumped out 2-0 by second-tier Norwich City at Goodison Park as the club’s former striker Steven Naismith returned to torment his old employers with the opener. Record eight-times winners Liverpool eased past

Chelsea’s Cesc Fabregas celebrates scoring their fourth goal Reuters / Darren StaplesLivepic Derby County 3-0 with goals from Ragnar Klavan, Philippe Coutinho and Divock Origi, while Arsenal enjoyed a 4-0 stroll at Nottingham Forest. Denmark striker Nicklas Bendtner lined up for Forest against his old club, but it was Arsenal’s new arrivals who shone. Granit Xhaka rifled in the opener from distance and Lucas Perez scored a penalty and a fine individual goal. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain netted the fourth goal in stop-

page time. Premier League Bournemouth went out in a 3-2 defeat at home to second-tier Preston North End, whose striker Simon Makienok bagged a hat-trick including an extra-time winner. Newcastle United progressed with a 2-0 victory at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers, having lost to the Midlands side by the same scoreline in the Championship on Saturday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Sixteen years and Jose Mourinho still hasn’t learnt to lose with dignity - Parker PAUL Parker is deeply concerned about Manchester United after three consecutive defeats, but insists the blame should stop with Jose Mourinho. There are three guarantees in football: players will make mistakes, referees will make mistakes and managers will make mistakes. U n f o r t u n a t e l y, J o s e Mourinho refuses to accept that final point. After 16 years as a manager, he still hasn’t learnt to lose with dignity – shifting the blame for everything onto referees and his players. I’ve been concerned from the moment Manchester United took him on and his scathing remarks about Luke Shaw only make me more concerned. Mourinho thinks he can go around and say what he wants – because of his name and what he’s achieved – and the players will accept it. Newsflash: they won’t. If it was Sir Alex Ferguson, the players would bite their tongues, but even he never went to the press and pulled out one player. You would have thought Mourinho had learnt his lesson from Chelsea. There are a lot of worried supporters right now. They know the history of the man. Sure, there are some

who believe Mourinho will win the Premier League in his first season, but there are many more who fear déjà vu and Chelsea round two. Why did they take on someone who upset so many people at Stamford Bridge? United had a great start

JOSE MOURINHO to the season … allegedly. But whom did they play? Bournemouth and Hull are games you would expect them to win with 10 players. Four years ago, everyone would have predicted United to win those games at least 3-0. Then they got absolutely smashed when they played the first team of any note.

No one would have been at all surprised if Manchester City went in 4-0 ahead at half-time in the derby. The scoreline flattered United. They were smashed. There’s a danger United will finish outside the top four again – there’s a huge gulf between them and a few sides in the Premier League. City, Spurs and Liverpool have shown how to control games, but United are just nicking goals and not imposing themselves against lesser teams. When you see them against Watford at the weekend, you get a little disturbed. Their three wins are deceptive. WHY IS ROONEY P L AY I N G I N M I D FIELD? Everyone has been talking about Henrikh Mkhitaryan for a long, long time. He made his name at Borussia Dortmund as a No.10. So why did Mourinho decide to start him out of position in the Manchester derby, then punish him by substituting him at halftime? I’m shocked that a manager of his alleged calibre is putting square pegs in round holes. It’s happening on a regular basis and Louis van Gaal did exactly the same. Are you not allowed to drop

Sebastien replaces Walsh on WICB selection panel ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Lockhart Sebastien has been appointed as a selector for the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB). Sebastien, who was an alternate selector for the last four years, replaces Courtney Walsh. Sebastien brings a tremendous amount of experience to the new post, having served in several capacities from as far back as 1974. The Dominican has managed the Windward Islands senior team for the last 12 years, he has served as a director on the Windward Islands board for the last ten years and was manager for the West Indies-A team to India in 2013 and Sri Lanka in 2014. Sebastien is a former opener for Dominica, Windward Islands and Combined Islands. He played first-

class cricket for 20 years. He played 92 first-class matches and scored 4 934 runs with the highest score of 219. The appointment was ratified at the Board of Directors meeting in Dominica, September 10. When we spoke to Sebastien, he stated: “I want to thank the directors for approving my term as a selector. “I have always been a team player and together with the other selectors, we will ensure the best West Indies team is selected at all times. Selectors have not always pleased everyone in the Caribbean but I am part of a team who will try the utmost to make Caribbean people happy.” Sebastien’s term as a selector will last two years.

Wayne Rooney, because he’s England captain? Every single fan is laughing at the situation. Mkhitaryan must be thinking: ‘Rooney isn’t fit to lace my boots… he can’t even run.’ Mourinho previously vowed to never use Rooney in midfield. Regardless of what the teamsheet says, Rooney is playing in that exact position. Mourinho hasn’t told the

truth. If you’re going to play Rooney, it has to be upfront. Zlatan Ibrahimovic isn’t being asked to run in behind, or into the channels, so Rooney could play this role – not holding hands with the defensive midfielders. And what about Paul Pogba? He can’t be held accountable for the current results. United have to get people around him to extract the best from him. Bring

back Bastian Schweinsteiger. The man’s a World Cup winner and has won numerous amounts of medals playing as one of the best central midfielders in world football. He could do a good job in a deeper position, allowing Pogba the freedom to play. Currently Pogba feels obliged to do everything because he doesn’t trust what’s around him. (Eurosport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Illness rules Ishant out of first Test

INDIA will be without Ishant Sharma for the first the three-Test series against New Zealand in Kanpur, which begins tomorrow, as he recovers from chikungunya. The quick, who has taken 209 wickets in 72 Test matches, needs time to recover after being laid low with the mosquito-borne virus. Ishant’s fitness will be assessed ahead of the second Test at Eden Gardens on September 30, with no replacement selected. Head coach Anil Kumble said: “Ishant Sharma is recovering from chikungunya and will not be available for the first Test match. “We have not asked for any replacement and will choose our first XI from the available 14. “We will be closely monitoring his progress with the doctors, and then we will take a call about

his fitness after this Test.” The Black Caps made it to the semi-finals of the World Twenty20 on Indian

the top wicket takers in that competition. “I watched the two spinners out of the three

Ishant Sharma will not feature in India’s first match against New Zealand having been laid low with chikungunya. soil in March and Kumble is wary of their strong spin attack, with Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi among

in the [World T20] where they played a significant role in the progress for New Zealand,” he said.

“We know that New Zealand is a very potent team, not just in the spin department but in their allround abilities as well. They have all three variations: left-arm spinner, off-spinner and a leg-spinner. That’s something that you don’t see in a foreign team.” Furthermore, Kumble does not believe India’s experience of playing in subcontinental conditions provides a significant advantage over touring sides, who are becoming increasingly familiar to them. He added: “The challenges to adapt to these conditions as quickly as possible are the same for the home team as well. “The home team certainly has the advantage of knowing and growing up in these conditions, but for a foreign team, since they travel so much, the conditions are no longer alien.”(Omnisport)

Ashton’s England future looks bleak after 13-week ban for biting (REUTERS)-WINGER Chris Ashton’s England career was hanging by a thread after he was handed a 13-week ban yesterday for biting an opponent. The 29-year-old Saracens back, who has played 39 tests, was found guilty of biting Northampton prop Alex Waller in one of two incidents within the space of a minute during a Premiership match on Saturday. The second charge was dismissed. “Having considered detailed evidence the panel concluded that during the course of a ruck Chris Ashton bit the arm of Alex Waller at a time that Mr Waller was attempting to clear him out,” disciplinary panel chairman Philip Evans said in a statement. “The panel concluded it was a low-end entry point aggravated by his previous record.” He is free to play again from Dec. 19, the panel said. Ashton’s hopes of earning a recall to the England squad for this year’s Six Nations ended when he was handed a 10-week suspension for making contact with the eye of Ulster centre Luke Marshall during a Champions Cup match in January. The former rugby league player, who has scored 19 tries for England, has not represented his coutry since 2014 and missed out on Eddie Jones’s 45-man elite player squad that was named last month.

English County Cricket

Spectacular batting collapse dents Somerset’s title hopes (REUTERS) - SOMERSET’S hopes of a first English County Championship title soared and then plummeted as a late batting collapse against Nottinghamshire undid their good early work on the first day of the final round of matches. A double-century stand between Chris Rogers and James Hildreth helped third-placed Somerset put immediate pressure on leaders Middlesex and second-placed Yorkshire, who are playing each other at Lord’s. The pair compiled a third-wicket partnership of 269 yesterday as they reached 302 for two. However, Rogers’ dismissal for 132 -- one of six victims for England bowler Jake Ball -- triggered a bat-

ting collapse. Hildreth followed six runs later for 135, and they finished day one at Taunton

win, plodded to 208 for five against Yorkshire, thanks largely to an unbeaten century from opening batsman

Chris Rogers hooks on his way to a century. on 322 for nine, with little opportunity remaining to secure the maximum batting bonus points they will probably need to overhaul the top two. Middlesex, who could take the title with only a draw if Somerset fail to

Nick Gubbins. In a day cut short by bad light, Jack Brooks took three Middlesex wickets to keep alive Yorkshire’s hopes of a third successive title. In one of the tightest finishes for years, Jason Gillespie’s side, who start-

ed the day a point ahead of Somerset, need not only to beat Middlesex but at least match Somerset’s points haul. At the other end of the table, Hampshire, needing a win to stand any chance of escaping relegation for a second successive season, had an excellent first day at Durham. Captain James Vince and opener Will Smith were both out in the 90s, and Jimmy Adams and Sean Ervine also hit half-centuries as Hampshire closed on 370 for six, earning them four batting bonus points. If they win, Warwickshire or Lancashire, who are playing at Edgbaston, could go down with Notts. The home side were bowled out for 219, and Lancashire finished day one on 14 without loss.

CHRIS ASHTON

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday September 21, 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) Gros Islet, St. Lucia, 2011 (2) WI won by 7 wickets

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who were the captains involved in the first WI/PAK Test engagement? (2) Who were the captains involved in the first WI/ PAK ODI contest?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday September 21, 2016

Russell anti-doping hearing adjourned to September 28 ANDRE Russell’s anti-doping hearing, looking into the Jamaican Anti-Doping Commission’s (JADCO) claim that the West Indies all-rounder had missed three dope tests in a 12-month period, resulting in a whereabouts-clause violation, has been adjourned to September 28. According to the WADA code, three missed tests amount to a failed dope test and the athlete could face a ban of up to two years. Russell was present at the hearing in Kingston, having skipped the three-T20I series against Pakistan in the UAE, citing “personal reasons”. On September 19, Russell’s lawyer, Patrick Forster, argued in front of the independent anti-doping disciplinary commission that the burden of proof was on JADCO to show Russell was negligent in fulfilling his whereabouts-clause obligations on January 1, July 1 and July 25, 2015, when he was supposed to undergo out-of-competition dope tests. “The thrust of our case is that the doping authority, JADCO, must prove negligence that has to emerge in the context of the evidence as it is given, so that is, essentially, our position. The burden of proof is on JADCO,” Forster told the Jamaica Gleaner. “I don’t want to comment too

much on the details of the evidence in the midst of cross-examining the witness, but a good portion of the cross-examination relates to the July to September quarter, where JADCO

Andre Russell’s lawyer, Patrick Forster, argued that the burden of proof was on JADCO to show Russell was negligent in fulfilling his whereabouts-clause obligations recorded two filing failures, so in cross-examination, I am just questioning the basis which they arrived

at two filing failures for the same quarter.” After preliminary hearings in late July, the independent panel, comprising Hugh Faulkner (chairman), Dr Marjorie Vassell, and former Jamaica cricketer Dixeth Palmer, was supposed to carry out a two-day hearing starting Monday. However, it was curtailed because a second key witness, Carey Brown, the JADCO’s executive director, could not be present as he was recovering from an accident. Monday’s hearing began with JADCO’s legal counsel, attorney Lackston Johnson, explaining to the panel how Russell had failed to respond despite being sent reminders three times. Forster cross-examined the first witness Nadia Vassell, the whereabouts officer and director of technical services at JADCO. According to the Jamaica Observer, Vassell told Forster that a first reminder was sent to Russell through a letter on July 6, 2015. An extension was given to Russell to file his whereabouts by July 13, 2015. On July 20, Vassell sent another email to Russell asking him to file his whereabouts by July 24. According to the Observer the panel was likely to dispose of the case by October 7. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Pooran, Powell inspire Windies to victory

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, (CMC) - West Indies defeated Emirates Cricket Board X1 by 22 runs in a warm-up match before their first T20 International of a three-match series against Pakistan here yesterday. New recruits to the West Indies T20 squad, Nicholas Pooran and Rovman Powell, inspired the innings with a half-century partnership while Samuel Badree and Sunil Narine shared five wickets. Badree and Narine conspired to erase a threatening partnership and swung the match firmly in West Indies way for them to eventually coast to an effortless win at the ICC Academy in Dubai. Badree picked up three wickets for 20 runs while Narine grabbed two for 21 to restrict Emirates to 144 for six wickets from their 20 overs after West Indies had posted 166 for seven. West Indies, who won the toss and elected to bat, lost top order batsmen Evin

Lewis, Andre Fletcher and Chadwick Walton cheaply, but aggressive opener Johnson Charles smashed 42 from 32 balls to keep the innings

when Pooran and Powell came together to kick-off an explosive phase which produced 55 runs in a fifth-wicket partnership.

Nicholas Pooran top scored with an unbeaten 47. alive. Charles’ innings included five fours and a six until he attempted to slog a flighted ball from Ahmed Raza on the on-side but got a top edge for Raza to take a superb running catch. West Indies were 74 for the loss of four wickets halfway through their innings

Pooran top-scored with an undefeated 47 off just 23 balls, in an innings which included four fours and three sixes while Powell scored 38 from 31 balls, hitting three sixes and picking up a boundary. Pooran and Powell were drafted into the T20 setup on the basis of outstanding

batting performances in the fourth edition of the Caribbean Premier League earlier this year. The West Indian score looked under threat when Mohammed Qasim, who carried most of the innings and Shaiman Anwar, combined to put on 73 for the third wicket in nine overs of batting together. But then Narine and Badree struck in quick succession to stifle the ambitions of the home side. Narine trapped Anwar leg-before for 31, then had Rameez Shahad for a duck soon afterwards. Badree, who had made the initial breakthrough with two early scalps, then returned to get the wicket of Qasim, who danced down the wicket to a flighted ball and was neatly stumped by Andre Fletcher for a top score of 46. A last-wicket stand of 33 by Laxman Sreekumar and Amjad Javed, who were unbeaten on 19 and 16 respectively, was not enough to rekindle the asking rate.

Laparkan Holdings 12th 11-race cycle programme set for Saturday NATIONAL cycling coach Hassan Mohamed, in collaboration with the Carlton Wheelers Cycle Club, will stage the 12th annual Laparkan Holdings Limited-sponsored 11-race cycle programme on Saturday around the inner circuit of the National Park beginning at 09:00hrs. The feature event is a 35-lap race which is open to schoolboys, novices and invitational riders. This year will see a new champion being crowned as last year’s champion Alanzo Greaves, who returned a time of one hour 19 minutes 21.47 seconds, was served a ban from participating in the sport which was instituted by the World Anti-Doping Association after a test proved that Greaves had used ALANZO GREAVES a ban substance during the National Sports Commission-sponsored five-stage road race last year. However, the majority of the country’s top riders are expected to take to the starting line, creating an avenue for a very competitive day of racing at the nation’s premier cycling circuit. Other winners from 2015 were Christopher Griffith (10-lap Junior/Juvenile), Shameer Baksh (5-lap Veterans U-50), Sean Budhan (5-lap Mountain Bike) and Ronella Samuels (3-lap Boys and Girls).

ICC president decides to skip India’s 500th Test celebrations INTERNATIONAL Cricket Council (ICC) president Shashank Manohar has decided to skip India’s 500th Test celebrations later this week in Kanpur, due to his hectic travel schedule and personal commitments.

ICC president Shashank Manohar Manohar, who is a former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has reportedly “politely declined” the Indian cricket boards offer to be part of the historic occasion. The 58-year-old returned to Nagpur on Monday from Singapore, where he was involved in work relating to the ICC’s Chief Executive Committee (CEC) meeting, which will be held in Cape Town from October 9-13. The ICC president is expected to fly

to the U.S. on September 26. “Shashank Manohar has politely told the BCCI that he will not be able to make it to Kanpur due to his hectic travel schedule and professional commitments as he is a lawyer. He has sent the board his best wishes for the landmark event,” a source told the Times of India. The refusal by Manohar is not due to the recent spat between the ICC and the BCCI, clarified the source. The two boards have been at loggerheads over certain issues with the Indian cricket board not too happy at being excluded from a meeting of the ICC’s finance committee earlier this month while also being miffed with a move for removing the ‘Big Three’ revenue model, which currently see’s India along with Australia and England get a lion share of the revenues. The BCCI has expressed reservations over the ICC’s decision to allocate a budget of $135M (£106M) as organisational costs for the Champions Trophy which is way higher than the $45M that was given to the board to host the ICC T20 World Cup earlier this year. This led to BCCI chief Anurag Thakur hitting out at Manohar over allegedly not protecting India’s interests as the BCCI is the biggest cricket body in the world. (Yahoo Sport)

Sebastien replaces Walsh on WICB selection panel LOCKHART SEBASTIEN

See story on page 29

Preparatory works contract inked for GFF Goal project

“IT’S a proud moment in football development in Guyana and the Caribbean,” International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) Development Officer Howard McIntosh proclaimed yesterday morning, as the contract for the construction of Guyana’s first Goal project was inked. The winning bid for the Sub-base work came from Dwain Ferdinand and Home Designs, which is based in New Amsterdam for a total of $128 650 927. That figure was later adjusted to $128 982 471 by a three-man panel which included Chairman Rabin Chandarpal, Nigel Hinds and Hector Edwards. Before the ink dried, however, McIntosh was stern

Contractor Dwain Ferdinand collects the inked contract from GFF president Wayne Forde as FIFA development officer Howard McIntosh looks on.

Cuba volleyball players jailed for rape in Finland FIVE members of Cuba’s national volleyball team have been convicted of raping a Finnish woman during a World League tournament in Tampere.

Four of the men, including the captain, were given five-year jail sentences while a fifth is facing a prison term of three and a half years.

Cuban volleyball player Luis Sosa Sierra (centre) was handed a sentence of three and a half years.

They were detained in the southern Finnish city on July 2 after a woman said she had been raped at a hotel. Eight men were originally held. Two were released soon afterwards. Another of the players was released from detention at the end of August and acquitted by the court in Tampere. The men given the longer sentences included 27-year-old captain Rolando Cepeda Abreu, Alfonso Gavilan, 21, Ricardo Calvo Manzano, 19, and Osmany Uriarte Mestre, who is also 21. Luis Sosa Sierra, 21, was given a shorter sentence. The team had been taking part in a tournament See page 27

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216.

in reminding the contractors that the specified time frame and strict adherence to quality are what the body expects in the construction of the project. To assure this, several objectives for laying of the base have already been set out in the four-month project which will be overlooked by Consultant Marcel Gaskin and Associates. The Berbice Company beat out Courtney Benn Contracting Services’ bid of $152 781 628. Meanwhile, Guyana Football Federation (GFF) 2nd vice-president Rawlston Adams contended, “This project has been long overdue; the signing is for the preparation work for the Providence Facility and See page 27

Young Bangladesh pacers listen keenly

A GROUP of pace bowlers listen keenly as former West Indies pacer Courtney Walsh addresses them during a training session at the Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium yesterday. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has picked seven members from Bangladesh’s ODI pool in the BCB XI squad to

take on Afghanistan in their only warmup game on Friday. The one-day match, which will be held in Fatullah, will be the visitors’ only chance to gauge local conditions ahead of their three-match ODI series that is being held a few weeks before the usual time for Bangladesh’s home season. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2016