Heads will roll No. 104620
FRIDAY JULY 22, 2016
Price: $80
(Vat Inclusive)
- if Drop-in Centre fire points to gross negligence, President says
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WOW! Enquiring minds at work yesterday at a STEM workshop at St Rose’s High on Church Street (Photo by Cullen Bess-Nelson)
Teenager hacks 2 stepfather to death in Crane Page
Student loans audit... Gov’t in no Gov’t to announce rush to abolish collection measures death penalty for outstanding
– Trotman
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
Teenager hacks stepfather to death in Crane
The house where the murder took place (Photo by Cullen Bess-Nelson)
By Navendra Seoraj
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T WAS chaos in the community of Crane, West Coast Demerara on Thursday when 70-year-old Eustane Williams also known as ‘Patrick’ was hacked to death by his 16-year-old stepson. The young man, who was described as a delinquent, was caught by residents while trying to escape. He was beaten before being handed over to the police and remains in custody. According to residents, around 10:30hrs, screams were heard emanating from the man’s kitchen. “I hear the man screaming and then suddenly the place get silent and I saw his son run out of the house and jump the back fence,” said one of the neighbours. The Guyana Chronicle understands that carpenters, who were working on a structure nearby, and residents chased the boy after discovering the man lying in a pool of blood in the house. Further reports indicate that the boy was later found by the villagers and police in an old toilet (latrine) within the village. However, persons bemoaned the fact that the 16-year-old was allegedly a “village delinquent,” who would often break into their homes, steal their belongings and a conduct a host of other illicit activities. This newspaper understands that the teenager and the man had a disagreement about a month ago, and Williams had thrown him out of the house because of his delinquent behaviour. The teen, nevertheless, returned to the house on several occasions and was involved in several heated arguments with Williams, until it ended fatally yesterday. Williams’s family is currently abroad, while the 16-year-old is in police custody assisting with the investigation.
Clothes vendor granted bail on simple larceny charge A 45-year-old clothes vendor was released on $50,000 bail after pleading not guilty to a simple larceny charge before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Shawn Smith is accused of stealing $200,000 cash and $US370 from Arnold Hoppie on July 17, at South Ruimveldt. Police Prosecutor, Deniro Jones strongly objected to bail for Smith, who is also a resident of South Ruimveldt. However, his objections were overruled by the Magistrate and the matter was transferred to City Magistrate Dylan Bess for August 23.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
Heads will roll
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- if Drop-in Centre fire points to gross negligence, - President
By Ravin Singh PRESIDENT David Granger has warned that anyone found guilty of negligence, resulting in the Drop-in Centre fire that claimed the lives of two children will be sanctioned appropriately. The Head of State’s announcement was made on Thursday, during his weekly television programme “The Public Interest.” Soon after the July 8 tragedy, the president ordered a Commission of Inquiry into the incident that claimed the lives of two brothers, aged three and six, who were in the care of the State at the time of their demise. The President a week ago had said that the inquiries being conducted by Government are to assist in the process of solving problems. But on Thursday, he said he is prepared to take strong
disciplinary action should the inquiry into the deaths at the Drop-in-Centre points to gross negligence. “Naturally, if any persons are culpable of gross negligence or dereliction of duty, yes, we will make a judgment on whether they’re fit to hold those positions. If you equate that with the rolling of heads then yes, but as I said the aim is to find out what happened to prevent a re-occurrence,” he said. The President is expecting a full report on the tragedy by the end of this month. Since the deadly fire, the Government has taken full responsibility and has funded the funeral of the two boys who perished. The centre falls under the control of the Social Protection Ministry, which is headed by subject Minister Volda Lawrence. Following the incident,
there have been renewed calls for the minister to relinquish responsibilities for that office. Earlier in the year, calls also were made for the minister to be removed following comments she had made which some interpreted as a defence for an accused child molester who was charged multiple times. The recent fire has further aggravated the situation and fuelled renewed calls for her resignation or dismissal. An online petition has also been launched in this regard. Asked whether he was inclined to consider these calls, given the fact that he has already made several changes to his Cabinet, the President said while he is aware of the calls, there is no “tsunami of protests” in favour of the minister’s removal. President Granger reasoned that in the first instance
President David Granger when calls were made for her removal from office, the matter was thoroughly discussed, even prior to elections, and the person who had been nominated was elected – a decision which he said was supported by civil society. In the case of the fire, President Granger questioned the number of people who have made statements in support of the minister’s removal.
Minister of Social Protection Volda Lawrence “How many people are there? Eight? Nine? We don’t know. Sometimes you see these petitions but they do not represent a substantial body of public opinion. So we need to verify how many people,” he said. The President did not state however what number constitutes a “substantial” amount to effect a re-examination of Lawrence’s
presence at the ministry, but noted that he has not found any reason to remove the minister from her position. “I think she’s doing her best and there has been an improvement in the delivery of social protection services to the public. Every week, I receive petitions and requests and complaints and she has been very punctilious in responding to those complaints, visiting persons and delivering services to those people,” the President said. He noted too that some of the people who are complaining are not aware of the “tremendous work” the Ministry of Social Protection is “burdened with” and is actually doing. As such, he reasoned that people should not feel that the ministry is dysfunctional or that the minister herself deserves to be removed.
Dataram allegations against CANU unfounded By Ravin Singh DAMNING allegations made against the country’s Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) by self-professed drug lord Barry Dataram is without merit, President David Granger has said. The President made the comment on Thursday during his weekly television show, “The Public Interest.” Earlier this year, in an exclusive interview with HGPTV’s Nightly News, Dataram had alleged that, “CANU them is the most corrupted, rogue security force in this country. They are the biggest drug dealer this country has. The same drug that they seize, half of it goes back on the street.” Dataram reportedly said
that he decided to go public with this information after CANU officers conducted a raid on his nephew’s house and removed $13 million; however, they were able to account for only $10 million. Head of CANU, James Singh, who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle after these accusations were made, said that he was of the view that Dataram was “clutching at straws” since his court case was near. Dataram was busted with more than 200 pounds of cocaine last year. And the unit said it has a very solid case against him. Singh told this publication that he believes that Dataram was trying to distract attention from the proceedings of the court and bring the operations of the
– President
unit and its members into disrepute. The head of CANU also contended that when persons make claims such as the one that Dataram made, it means that they could have several objectives. Subsequently, a oneman Commission of Inquiry (CoI) was launched to investigate Dataram’s claims. And having received and examined the report from the Commission, President Granger said that the drug lord’s allegations of corruption were without foundation. “I would say generally that Mr Dataram’s allegations of corruption were without foundation… they were without merit,” the President said. However, he was keen to note that the commission did
find other areas that require administrative attention. He said that report pointed to the need for administrative changes at CANU. According to the President, deficiencies in anti-narcotics movement which were highlighted, include, limited funding, limited equipment, and limited staff. He explained that the need for better equipment is important, since narcotics are smuggled into Guyana through the country’s porous borders. “… so we need better equipment to detect; [we need] surveillance equipment, we need all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and we need aircraft, which would create a new look to the anti-narcotics architecture in Guyana.”
Barry Dataram In light of these recommendations, he described the report as being “very helpful” in providing recommendations to strengthen the anti-narcotics movement in Guyana. The President was keen to note too, that the commission was not a “witch hunt” and
that “the Government is not looking to get any scalps.” Additionally, the President revealed that very soon Government will be publishing the National Drug Strategy Master plan. The Government has established the National Anti-Narcotics Agency (NANA) which will be an umbrella body to provide oversight of the countrywide anti-narcotics programme, which involves the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA’s) Customs and Trade Administration. The police anti-narcotics branch, the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) is also involved in this structural arrangement. As such, President Granger said that he foresees a higher level of coordination in the fight against narcotics.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
Fox News boss Roger Ailes resigns amid sexual harassment charges [BBC] - Roger Ailes, the long-time boss of Fox News, has resigned after a number of female employees accused him of sexual harassment. The network's parent company, 21st Century Fox, announced his resignation. The announcement does not mention the sexual harassment allegations, which have now come from multiple Fox presenters. Executive chairman Rupert Murdoch wrote that Mr Ailes has made a "remarkable contribution" to Fox News. "We continue our commitment to maintaining a work environment based on trust and respect," Fox executives Lachlan Murdoch and
James Murdoch said in the statement. "We take seriously our responsibility to uphold these traditional, long-standing values of our company." Roger Ailes has long been viewed one of America's most powerful conservatives. The one-time media consultant to Richard Nixon was the key figure in building the Fox News channel into a ratings, profits and, most important perhaps, political powerhouse. Prior to his dramatic and embarrassing downfall, Mr Ailes was said to be one of the few employees that Rupert Murdoch actually feared. But it was the media mogul's admiration for his long-time lieutenant and ideological
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soul-mate that came through in the warm statement released by Fox News Channel's parent company, 21st Century Fox. "His grasp of policy and his ability to make profoundly important issues accessible to a broader audience stand in stark contrast to the self-serving elitism that characterises far too much of the media," said Rupert Murdoch, in a tribute that did not touch upon the allegations of sexual harassment against the former news chief. Noticeably, it was left to Mr Murdoch's sons, Lachlan and James, to point out that the company is committed "to maintaining a work environment based on trust and respect." I'm told by a source close to the company that the Murdochs wanted to move quickly, a lesson learnt from the handling of the phone hacking scandal. It also measure of the
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Roger Ailes importance that Mr Murdoch attaches to the Fox News channel that he is personally taking over as chairman and acting CEO after losing one of the central figures in his global media empire. What makes Mr Ailes' departure all the more dramatic is that it should happen on the fi-
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nal day of the Republican convention at a time when a deeply divided conservative movement was already in such a state of flux. Mr Ailes, 76, said he was stepping down because he had become a "distraction". "I will not allow my presence to become a distraction
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from the work that must be done every day," Mr Ailes wrote in a letter to Rupert Murdoch. He has run Fox News since it launched in 1996 and is credited with reshaping the American media and political landscape. A veteran of Republican political campaigns, he turned the cable news network into a ratings leader and an influential force in the Republican Party. "Rupert Murdoch is a conservative, but the Republican intensity, the conservative passion including the viciousness toward the Democrats that we now see against Hillary Clinton and has been going on against Obama all these years, all that is Roger Ailes,'' Paul Levinson, communications professor at Fordham University, told the AP news agency. Less than two weeks ago former presenter Gretchen Carlson sued Mr Ailes for sexual harassment and wrongful termination, claims he denies. Ms Carlson, who worked for the network for 11 years, alleges that he proposed having a sexual relationship with her and he instructed her to turn around in his office so he could look at her backside. Mr Ailes also allegedly called her a "man hater" and that she needed to "get along with the boys". A report in New York magazine, citing anonymous sources, said lawyers for 21st Century Fox gave Mr Ailes a deadline of 1 August to resign or face being fired. Further allegations surfaced in US media that Mr Ailes sexually harassed another Fox News presenter, Megyn Kelly, about 10 years ago, claims he has also denied.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
T&T PM assures that visitors will be treated with respect
[Jamaica Observer] - The prime minister said that his country was also taking steps “to ensure that there is no situation where we can be justifiably accused of not being able to respond appropriately (to issues persons may have at the borders)”. He argued that if there are arrivals which, for one reason or another, do not qualify for entry, “this is part of the process, and what we politicians need to do, is to ensure that our people understand the basis on which we can visit each other”. He added: “We are sovereign states (that have) agreed to work within a grouping called Caricom. We do have some significant element of freedom of movement, but there are restrictions in there, and that qualification takes place at the border. So, it is likely from time to time that at our borders some of our
citizens may not meet the requirements for entry and those requirements are very clear and it is for us to let our population know that.” Prime Minister Rowley further pointed out that his country has taken steps to ensure that “the necessary training and sensitisation is taking place at immigration”. Turning to relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, Dr Rowley said there is nothing but brotherly love for the people of Jamaica, pointing out that there are “many tens and thousands of Jamaicans who are living comfortably, going in and out of Trinidad and Tobago”. The prime minister further committed to working with Prime Minister Andrew Holness to strengthen relations between both countries. “Our people ought to be able to look to us for clearing the pathway for easier movement, and for clearing the
pathway for better investment opportunities,” he said.
Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Dr Keith Rowley The prime minister and his wife are in the island on an official visit. They will depart today.PRIME Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Dr
Brazil Olympics: Ten arrested for ‘plotting terror’ [BBC] - Brazilian police have arrested 10 members of a group alleged to be preparing acts of terrorism, two weeks before the start of the Olympic Games. They were not members of so-called Islamic State but had tried to make contact with the group, officials said. The justice minister said the group was in the planning stage of an attack and police acted as a preventative measure. Alexandre Moraes described the cell as "absolute amateurs" and "ill-prepared" to launch an attack. All those arrested were
Brazilian and two more suspects were being sought, he said. They were detained across 10 different states, and had been in contact via messaging services such as Whatsapp. Group members had attempted to contact a weapons supplier in neighbouring Paraguay to get AK 47 assault rifles, but there was no evidence of any being bought. An emergency meeting of the Brazilian cabinet has been called. More than 80,000 police and soldiers will patrol Rio streets for the games which end on 21 August. The fed-
eral government said last week that it was releasing an extra $24m (£18m) to beef up security ahead of the Olympics. The International Olympic Committee recently concluded that Rio de Janeiro had overcome setbacks and was "ready to welcome the world" to the 2016 Olympics. There have been fears over Rio's readiness because of building delays, the Zika virus and political crises. Mr Moraes told a news conference there was a "minimal probability of a terrorist act during the Rio Olympics."
The military are to begin patrolling sports venues from 24 July, authorities said
Keith Rowley has assured that all Caribbean nationals who visit the twin-island republic will be treated with respect. He said that despite the negative perception, 97 per cent of every 100 persons that visit Trinidad and Tobago “come with no problem”. “If there is three per cent that have some issues, those issues must and will be dealt with in a dignified manner [as] the Caribbean Community (Caricom) has required us to take steps to ensure that all our people crossing all our borders are treated with dignity,” he said. Dr Rowley was speaking at the start of a bilateral meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister on Monday. The prime minister said that his country was also taking
steps “to ensure that there is no situation where we can be justifiably accused of not being able to respond appropriately (to issues persons may have at the borders)”. He argued that if there are arrivals which, for one reason or another, do not qualify for entry, “this is part of the process, and what we politicians need to do, is to ensure that our people understand the basis on which we can visit each other”. He added: “We are sovereign states (that have) agreed to work within a grouping called Caricom. We do have some significant element of freedom of movement, but there are restrictions in there, and that qualification takes place at the border. So, it is likely from time to time that at our borders some of our citizens may not meet the
requirements for entry and those requirements are very clear and it is for us to let our population know that.” Prime Minister Rowley further pointed out that his country has taken steps to ensure that “the necessary training and sensitisation is taking place at immigration”. Turning to relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, Dr Rowley said there is nothing but brotherly love for the people of Jamaica, pointing out that there are “many tens and thousands of Jamaicans who are living comfortably, going in and out of Trinidad and Tobago”. The prime minister further committed to working with Prime Minister Andrew Holness to strengthen relations between both countries.
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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
Gov’t and trade unions
SINCE the APNU+AFC administration came to office, it is fair to say that it has a less than exemplar relationship with the trade unions. What is striking about this is that when the parties were in opposition, they were vocal, confronting the PPP/C on its treatment of workers and disregard for the laws and collective bargaining. The society will recall that the administrations of Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar imposed yearly increased wages and salaries on public service workers. These workers could have relied on the then political opposition to stand in their corner, join in condemnation of the Government, and call for respect for collective bargaining. It is fair to say that given these pronouncements, the trade unions were made to feel they had friends in the APNU and AFC, who respected their right to existence, and role as a stakeholder in society. The relationship between the trade unions and the Bharrat Jagdeo Government was at best thorny and at worst adversarial. It was during his administration that collective bargaining with several unions came to an end inasmuch as they exited Recognition Agreements. The 1999 Armstrong Award for public servants, which covered a three-year period, was never implemented in its entirety. The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), a union seen as the industrial arm of the PPP/C, was threatened with de-recognition during the President Jagdeo Government. The management of the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) refused to negotiate with the recognised union, the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union (GB&GWU), which started during the Jagdeo Government. What is even more troubling, in addition to expecting foreign investors to adhere to good international corporate practices and respect the host country’s laws, more importantly the Government of Guyana is part owner of BCGI. To President Donald Ramotar’s credit, it could be said that his choice of Minister of Labour, Dr Nanda Gopaul, the industrial relations landscape took a turn for the better. Though it equally could be said that there remained much work to reverse what was perceived as PPP/C Government hostility to the trade unions. It is reasonable to conclude that Gopaul’s presence in the Cabinet and his industrial relations credentials were signals being sent by the Ramotar Government that it wanted to foster a new approach in labour relations. Through political lens, Ramotar’s decision could have been construed that his Government was returning to the working-class roots the party’s first leader, Dr Cheddi Jagan, stood on. Notably, it was during Gopaul’s tenure as minister that efforts were pursued to bring the Guyana Public Service Union and the Government of Guyana to the bargaining table. In the sugar industry, Gopaul opted to impose arbitration to resolve wages and salaries differences between the union and management. This decision meant avoiding strikes and reducing antagonism between the union and management. In the instance of the BCGI and GB&GWU, the Labour Act was enforced, which saw the minister ordering compulsory arbitration in an effort to bring resolution to outstanding issues and normalcy to the workplace. More importantly, this act could be construed as taking a stand for Guyana’s sovereignty and respect for its laws and citizens. This matter was taken to court by the BCGI management on the pretext of the use of a name. The High Court took a decision to have the Minister of Labour re-issue a letter
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday JULY 22, 2016
Copyright Laws Dear Editor, FOR SOME time now I have been visiting lots of bookstores and markets buying books and published materials for my children and myself. I note with a great deal of interest that most books today that are being sold in our markets and book stores are photocopied books; that’s a violation of copyright laws, both nationally and internationally. I observed that books such as: Junior English, First Aid in English, CXC text books in every subject area, books by Caribbean writers like V. S. Naipaul, Derek Walcott, Ian McDonald, Martin Carter, Wilson Harris and the long list goes on and on when it comes to ‘book piracy’ and our past and present governments have done nothing about it. I am scared to bring my books which have been published abroad and launch them here, because my first book published here was pirated by many schools and store-owners and it’s hard to track down everyone and if you take them to court, you can lose your case because the copyright laws are not enforced here. Our writers here suffered a lot like me because we have only four newspapers here and that makes it hard to employ our writers to get jobs. Even many agencies hardly have job positions for writers and editors. I say this from my personal experience and most papers pay columnists very cheaply or don’t want to pay them because many politicians write columns here for free; that makes it
very difficult for Guyanese writers like me. Why is copyright laws not enforced after 50 years of Independence? We have copyright laws in Guyana, but they are not enforced. If they were enforced, then the owners of these stores selling photocopied books would have been picked up by the police, they would have been sent to prison or pay some heavy court fines as in Trinidad, Jamaica, Barbados and many big nations. I also see now the piracy of CDs and DVDs has now become a normal business in this country from the very big store-owners to sellers in the streets. Many young children are dropping out of school just to earn a living by selling pirated DVDs and CDs. It’s very sad to know that writers’ text books or any other books of poetry, fiction, etc are being sold as pirated photocopied books in the streets and in the stores and they cannot do anything about it. It’s sad to know because the writer will take years to write a book and will invest a huge sum of money to get his/her book published, then some high-class, white-collar thief will buy just one copy of the author’s original book and photocopy thousands of the author’s books and sell them at half their value. It’s very sad to know that many of our Guyanese singers will take years to compose their songs on a CD, travel out of Guyana to get their songs recorded, then suddenly their CDs are
of arbitration, which was accepted by the State’s lawyers. This decision was taken in 2012. It is 2016 and the matter still hangs in abeyance. In May 2015 APNU+AFC was elected to office with public support from significant sections of the trade union community. At the reading of the Government’s first budget in August 2015, this relationship started showing serious cracks. Public servants were made aware at the budget reading that wages and salaries will be imposed on them, in disregard for the right to collective bargaining, and represented a continuation of the treatment meted out to them by the Jagdeo and Ramotar administrations. The unions vociferously expressed dissatisfaction to this treatment, notably from parties who condemned similar act when they were in opposition. A ray of hope was extended when Minister of State Joseph Harmon apologised for the act of imposition and committed that the Government will not do it again. Notwithstanding that commitment, this year the Guyana Public Service Union dedicated significant energies calling on the Government to commence negotiations for wages, salaries, and other conditions of work. Thankfully, this is presently taking place. The industrial relations climate in sugar, bauxite, and the education sectors are very tenuous and appear to be getting more adversarial. The GB&GWU and BCGI are yet to meet, inasmuch as the judiciary has spoken. If Guyanese workers are not assured that the Government will respect the decision of the High Court and
being sold in the streets and CD shops for $200 and seven for $1000. What is really happening to the laws of our country? On every corner we can see laws are broken everyday by corrupt people in our society. What is copyright? Does it apply to our country? ‘’Copyright is a type of protection provided by law to authors of original works of authorship, inclusive of literary, drama, musical, artistic and some other intellectual works.’’ Guyana is a signatory to the Berne Convention and the Universal Copyright Convention. In addition, other copyright legal provisions are enacted in the Copyright Act 1956 of the United Kingdom to which Guyana acceded in 1966. The problem, however, is that these copyright provisions are not enforced in Guyana. Guyana is among 121 countries that were party to the Berne Convention on March 2, 1997. Since Guyana is a signatory, why is it not being enforced? Why is Guyana a signatory of a convention she has no intention of implementing? It’s about time our law- makers try to have an understanding of copyright laws to protect our authors, singers, etc. This law must be passed in parliament and all pirated photocopied books, exam papers, DVDs, CDs must be removed from the shelves in every store and market stall in Guyana. At CARIFESTA, lots of books were launched, but it’s sad to see these books being photocopied and sold
at book-stores and markets for half price. Guyana is not a good place for writers to launch their books. It looks bad when a Caribbean writer visits our country to see his/her book being sold as a photocopied book. Since we are a member of CARICOM, then we must follow and adhere to the principles of other CARICOM states. What we need in Guyana is a publishing house or a good printing press at the Ministry of Education to re-publish books written by Caribbean authors that will be easily available to students at a reduced price. In an interview some time ago with Hansib Publisher Arif Ali and Petamber Persaud about copyright, Mr. Ali, publisher of Hansib, said that he can publish text books cheaper for Guyana if our Government can work with him. Even singer Dave Martins said that copyright laws must be enforced in Guyana, because it will put more revenue into the Government’s treasury. What we need in Guyana is a writers/authors union to represent writers, meaning they can take a store-owner to court for selling their books and that store-owner will have to compensate the writer financially if found guilty. The same should apply to artistes. This looks like a long hard road for us to travel, but it can be done if we work together to enforce the copyright laws in our country. Yours faithfully, Rev. GIDEON CECIL
take positions consistent with the law, then what can they expect to ensure justice for them? The unions in the sugar industry continue to express concerns that they are being bypassed or ignored on matters pertaining to workers, even though they are the workers’ legitimate representatives. Negotiations between the Guyana Teachers Union and the Ministry of Education are at a standstill, since no progress appears to have been made. While these conflicts exist, the minister that has responsibility for labour, who under the Labour Laws is the chief Conciliator, is taking no action to bring about resolutions. The trade unions have themselves expressed dissatisfaction that there is no ministry dedicated to labour, which they noted is a first for Guyana, and also their displeasure with the performance of the minister assigned labour responsibilities. This editorial does not pretend to cover all issues relating to the trade union landscape, but is pointing to issues that have been in the public domain for quite some time now. What is noticeable and conflicting is that while President David Granger prides himself on being supportive and respecting of the trade unions, their historical role in the development of society, those whom he has appointed to serve in the Executive seem not to be mindful or respecting of his views. This disconnect seems to heighten the trade unions scepticism that this Government is as anti-labour as the Jagdeo Government.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
OP-ED
Plans advance for South American passport and citizenship By Odeen Ishmael THE Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) has advanced its plans for the establishment of a South American passport and the promotion of free movement of all South American citizens throughout the continent. Towards this end, on June 28-29, the Working Group on South American Citizenship met in Ecuador where representatives of the 12 member-nations discussed a variety of ideas on how the process should proceed. These ideas included the methodology to hasten the removal of visa restrictions on travel within the continent. The meeting also dealt with the development of the plan for South American citizenship through the use of a common passport, mobility of citizens across borders, and the rights of citizens in another South American country other than their own. South American governments are currently considering the results of this meeting and so far details of its final report have not been released to the general public. The UNASUR secretariat (based in Ecuador) on its website reports briefly on the citizenship programme: “The building of the South American citizenship promotes free intra-regional mobility; and the creation of a South American education space and common identity, which will contribute to deepening the regional integration process. In addition, it will guarantee civil, political, labour and social rights for all natives of the member-states who are at present residing in any country of South America.” The citizenship programme forms part of the broader objective of the 12 South American nations to achieve full political and economic integration. Together, they now have a total population of more than 400 million people with a territory of 17 million square kilometres. By uniting, the Region can become the fourth largest economy in the world, with resources of onethird of the world's fresh water, hydrocarbon reserves for the next 100 years, while currently being first in food production. UNASUR feels that as an integrated entity, the member-states will be better able to develop their resources to vastly improve the livelihoods of their citizens. BACKGROUND TO THE PROCESS Ever since the South American Community of Nations (the forerunner of UNASUR) was established back in December 2004, many of the continent’s leaders from time to time expressed ideas for political integration and free movement of citizens across borders. Significantly, the integration process was spurred on November 24, 2006, when the continent’s foreign ministers, meeting in Santiago, Chile, reached an agreement for South American citizens to travel throughout the continent without visas and leaving it up to each country to implement regulations to meet this objective. No doubt, this decision was the forerunner of the South American citizenship programme which was announced at the sixth summit of UNASUR in Lima, Peru, on November 30, 2012. In their final declaration, the South American leaders approved the beginning of the process to advance, “In a flexible and gradual manner towards the consolidation of the South American identity . . . with the aim of attaining a true South American citizenship as the backbone of an integrated South American space.” This decision commenced the fulfilment of the aim of UNASUR’s constitutive treaty of May 2008, which sets out in its preamble the determination of the continent’s leaders “to build a South American identity and citizenship.” A Working Group on South American Citizenship was subsequently set up by the foreign ministers to examine proposals on these matters. Two years after the Peru summit, the December 2014 summit held in Guayaquil, Ecuador, took a further step when the leaders approved the concept of a South American citizenship for the continent’s 400 million people. Part of this proposal aimed at creating a “single passport” which would facilitate the free movement of people in the Region for work or study across the continent, similar to the system operating in the European Schengen zone. The concept would also support the mutual recognition of degrees from the respective countries’ universities and other institutions of higher learning. Secretary-General of the bloc, Ernesto Samper, felt that this process of integration would result in “convergence of citizens, convergence of similarities, and convergence of solidarity are the proposals of this effort to bring us together.” The citizenship plan advanced further when the UNASUR meeting of foreign ministers on April 23, 2016, adopted proposals for a gradual process and to maintain regular consultations with governments of the member states in order to gauge their readiness. SOME IMPEDIMENTS But within the Region, impediments exist and these can act to slow down the process. Old prejudices nurtured by widespread nationalism (also espoused by many political players of varying ideological persuasions) exist across the Region; so multiculturalism resulting from free movement may not be readily embraced by the citizens of some countries. Also, each full member of Mercosur, the regional trade bloc, established a national identity document (DNI), aimed at permitting free movement of people across Mercosur borders. But this has not worked well since border controls and customs officials remain in place, and instead of needing to produce passports, citizens of these member states have to present their DNIs. But uniformity is not firmly established, since some immigration authorities also request the presentation of passports at airports and border crossings. And even within the longer-established Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to which
Guyana and Suriname belong, real freedom of movement of CARICOM citizens remain elusive, even though the member-countries (except The Bahamas and Haiti) have CARICOM passports. For instance, there are numerous incidents of Guyanese, Jamaican and Haitian citizens being refused entry or detained for long periods on arrival at the airport in Barbados. Further, Haitian citizens, despite their CARICOM status, must have visas for entry into most of the CARICOM countries. Undoubtedly, UNASUR is examining the CARICOM experience as it proceeds to develop its own system of continental citizenship. POSITION OF UNASUR’S CARICOM MEMBERS Currently, both Guyana and Suriname subscribe to the regional CARICOM passport arrangement and it is doubtful that their respective governments will abandon it for the anticipated South American document. However, they may subscribe to part of the arrangement which will allow their citizens (holders of CARICOM passports) to travel and work in other UNASUR countries without the necessity of visas. Currently, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), for tourism purposes, Guyanese enjoy visa free travel to most South American countries except Chile and Paraguay; visa-free entry to other countries, such as Venezuela, Chile and Paraguay, is restricted to holders of diplomatic passports. On the other hand, Surinamese citizens have visa-free entry to all other South American countries, except Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela. Since the entire South American citizenship plan will be a gradual process, whenever it comes on stream, it is expected that each of the member-nations will have the option to decide on what aspects of the arrangement they will initially adopt. (Dr. Odeen Ishmael, Ambassador Emeritus (retired), historian and author, served as Guyana’s ambassador in the USA (1993-2003), Venezuela 2003-2011) and Kuwait and Qatar (2011-2014). He actively participated in meetings of UNASUR from 2003 to 2010 and has written extensively on South American integration issues. He is currently a Senior Research Fellow of the Washington-based Council on Hemispheric Affairs.)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
Good -reason to be wary of some local foods we eat SOME weeks ago when the vendors were visited at the old Auto Supplies lot where they are now placed, an angry stallholder complained about losses; she explained that the fruit she was purchasing from the farmers could only last a few days “because deh does spray it, so it don’t last long.” This sent a chill through me, invoking memories. It was in late 2005 to early 2006 that I had read a report in the Stabroek News about the death of a citizen who had eaten a papaya. Before then, I had learnt about the chemical ripening of fruits and vegetables, so I wrote a letter to the newspapers. I can’t recall exactly how I came into contact with the people at the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board; I think the media had sent them a copy of the letter. But soon enough, I was in communication with the Registrar, Basudeo Dwarka and his Inspector, Trecia David. I later met another Inspector, Vivek Joshi. CHEMICAL POISONING The meeting surrounded their knowledge of chemical poisoning in fruit and vegetables locally, and the dilemma of how, with their meagre staff, to reach mostly illiterate farmers. Inspired by my experiences at the Kuru Kuru College (See article GNNL The Business of Co-Ops, Friday June 10, 2016) I had developed a cartoon team, Bohdoo & Bains, with the intent that it will be used to address farming problems. We concluded on the preparation of a graphic booklet on PESTS and PESTICIDES. At the time, the thinking was that fruit was compromised because the duration for picking between spraying, and reaping was not adhered to, and that the strength of spraying was too high. The 20-page graphic magazine was well received, with pages blown up at the Ministry of Agriculture exhibition, held in 2006. Though the Registrar was eager to have the message animated, after I explained the process and the costs, he himself conceded doubts about having, first the political Board understand what he was talking about, much less getting the highly politicised PPP State to approve it, so I moved on to other interests. The afore-mentioned vendor’s comment prompted me to call the Pesticides Board; I spoke to a pleasant young lady, whose name I think is Divika. I told her why I was calling; that it was about the spraying of fruit and vegetables to hasten ripening. I gave her my contact numbers; she informed me that the Registrar was not there, and that most of the people from before about whom I had enquired were not there anymore. I received no response up to the penning of this column. ‘WORSE THAN TERRORISTS’ This is a serious problem; I have always wondered how our cancer rate is so high in relation to our relatively small population. Research led me to an article in the August 20, 2015 edition of ‘THE TIMES OF INDIA’. I was struck by the term used by the Hyderabad High Court, which, in its pronouncement on farmers who indulge in this practice, described them as being “worse than terrorists...” The full quote reads: “For earning some extra rupees, you are putting scores of lives at risk. Such traders are worse than terrorists, killing generations of people with slow poison, the acting chief justice said.” It appears that farmers pick fruits before they ripen naturally and treat them with Calcium Carbide; the compounds of Calcium Carbide are acetylene and calcium cyanamide, which are extremely harmful to the human body. Medical sources have long contended [for decades!] that calcium carbide is a proven carcinogen which contains traces of arsenic and can cause cancer, kidney disorders and other neurological disorders. Worse, many traders inject harmful chemical sweeteners in fruits to make them taste unnaturally sweet. HERE IN GUYANA How long has this been happening in Guyana? I am sure over five years. This might be naive, but my base is not on guess work. It was about five years ago that I semi-managed a colleague’s leased farmlands in Kamuni Creek. On a trip up the creek, the operative of another farm told me that he had found a way to produce pears outside of the season. I was baffled, but could not get details at that moment, because the boat ride involved visitors whose cross-gyaff intercepted our conversation, so I never learned the method. Now I am beginning to understand the term, Frankenstein Foods, which I thought only referred to GMO (Genetic Modified Foods), another development Guyana should stay far away from. We should not be importing Monsanto and like agriculture products. If we do, then it should stop, because I am told that such packaged seeds are been sold here. CONTROL MEASURES How do we regulate our food suppliers, so as to be able to identify who is producing and supplying what? This is not too difficult: Enrol them in district groups to which they receive an overall certificate with corresponding documentation for vendors. We are talking about the poisoning of a nation. The judge in India is right; this is terrorism, whether driven by greed or desperation. The State has to take a serious position on this matter; the poisoning of the nation must be
criminalised. Persons indulging in this method will only respond to the deterrent of possible jail time; this is how other countries deal with the health of their citizens. A value must be placed on the inevitable fact that we will most likely purchase willingly contaminated fruit and vegetables. I can only call on my colleagues in the media to explore this threat to our national wellbeing. The fruit vendors know, and possibly assume nobody cares, because, they presume, it possibly isn’t harmful. Well, it is. Another source told me about a not so dangerous fruit ripening chemical called ethylene. Further research into ethylene proved that the hormone effects on plant growth by ethylene was first noted in 1864, when leakage from gas street lighting systems caused stunting and deformation in nearby plants. Could this be termed a positive development on plant life, or an indicator of suitability for human life?
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
U.S.investor urges gov’t to pass real estate legislation By Shauna Jemmott WITH a massive boost in housing and community development in Guyana, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Fabulous Homes, Karis Munroe, is calling on government to design and pass legislation to deal with the management and execution of real estate services. She said the trust in real estate in Guyana has been broken by mismanagement and skullduggery, but with an established legal document to generally manage the business here, it can be restored to a better place. FRAUDSTER IMAGE In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Munroe said, “Since the value of real estate is so severely diminished in this country, people don’t understand the impact that real estate and this industry have on a developing country. The average person that you’re gonna talk to
about anything real estate related is gonna tell you, ‘Oh my God, those people, they are either fraudsters or a scamp .That’s the brand that real estate has in this country and it upsets me in so many ways because not everybody is like that.” She said with no guidelines for real estate agents to follow, some people decide to do it as just a “hussle,” thinking merely of monetary gains, with no idea of what they really are doing. “So if there’s no educational requirements that are available, then guess what, ‘I don’t know what I’m doing, but I think that if you find me and you told me that your house is for sale and I find somebody to buy it, then you are supposed to pay me for my service’.” Munroe, a U.S. citizen who has post-graduate qualifications in the field, has introduced a certificate programme in Real Estate at the Critchlow Labour College,
encouraging Guyanese at home to break into the industry. She has also recommended that a degree in Real Estate Management programme be introduced at the University of Guyana (UG), since there is need to understand the impact of real estate on Guyana’s development. IMPACT “Because they do not understand the impact this industry has on this country, they put it to the bottom of the barrel and they don’t care whether there are legislations that protect the consumers, whether there are legislations for the people that actually are representing the consumers. There is nothing!” Munroe told the Guyana Chronicle. She said she made the recommendation to a few influential individuals but the industry needs “people who would make it happen.” “We believe that edu-
Tension at City Hall…
Trotman says democracy at work
By Ariana Gordon
THE internal bickering at the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has been described by Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment Raphael Trotman as “democracy at work”. Minister Trotman was at the time responding to questions posed by reporters at this week’s post-Cabinet press briefing held at the Ministry of the Presidency. He was asked whether Government is concerned about the happenings at the Town Council. He said after many years of not having Local Government Elections (LGE), some confusion is expected. “[You will find]…today something is said, tomorrow something is done or is not done, so all of this or the way I see it is part of the Council finding itself; finding its way and its identity, and going on to do well for the City,” said Trotman. Cabinet, he said has pronounced on the parking meter issue, but is not prepared to
intervene in affairs of the City Council. “(Government will) not intervene and instruct, and take over the process. It has to be allowed to flourish.” He disclosed that Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams has completed a report on the legality of the parking meter contract. That report is to be presented to Cabinet next week. “We see all of this as
Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman
development of our local democracy. Like the birthing of any process, it is never going to be in textbook fashion. It is never going to be static, it is going to be in fact quite exciting, and we would, where necessary, give guidance,” the minister stated. Asked whether he believes the Deputy Mayor of the City of Georgetown should be riding to work on a bicycle as opposed to be utilising facilities of the Council, the minister said as a former Council, the Mayor was usually the centre of attention in that it was the Mayor who benefited from privileges. “I believe that the new era demands that the Deputy Mayor, not just for Georgetown, but all the deputies, and in fact, the Chairmen and Chairpersons of all the Councils be given special facilities,” he said. Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan is expected to submit to Cabinet a proposal on across-theboard benefits and facilities that are to be made available for all Councils.
cation is important. For you to be able to go to GRA (Guyana Revenue Authority) to pick up a licence and claim that you are a real estate agent, we believe that you should have at least gotten at least 75 hours at the minimum of real estate training, so you would be properly equipped to assist anyone in that industry.” Outside of that she said, “…You’re asking to be robbed, you’re asking for somebody to defraud you. Because they don’t know what they’re doing, you don’t know what you’re doing, but you are faithfully trusting
that individual with your property and in some scenarios your finances.” She pointed out that while there are no laws to hold anybody accountable, there are people who are selling other people’s properties, presenting “bogus power of attorney” documents. With laws in place, she said, “In the event you are gonna take somebody’s money and run off with it, you will go to jail for a very long time [since] if [someone is] not being held accountable for [their] mistakes, [they] are gonna continue doing it. Since there are no laws in place to protect the consumer,
there’s no legislation in place to protect the consumer and also the agents,” there would always be confusion. FOREIGN INVESTMENT She said establishing such laws will also attract foreign investment in the field of housing and community development. “If investors felt confident in coming into Guyana, knowing that there is a large expanse of land, I can come in here and I can bring millions of U.S. [dollars] knowing that my investments will be protected.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
‘Steve N’ back in service - after successful dry docking
THE dredge, ‘Steve N’, was there when the steel is back in service after for its hull was originally being dry-docked for being assembled. the past eight weeks, Mr. Ronald Bourne, and resultantly reConsultant to the Shippaired by the Guyana yard Manager explained National Industrial that over the years he has Corporation (GNIC). been privileged to have The ‘Steve N’ is the worked on conducting largest vessel owned by preventative maintethe Maritime Adminisnance on the dredge, tration Department (MAwhich has a “creative” RAD), and reparatory history with the yard. works were completed The work was routine on time, within cost and since GNIC has a very specification. experienced shipbuildThe dredge is now ing and ship repair Team. available for use in CEO of GNIC, Mr. dredging works in GuyClinton Williams said ana’s rivers after it was that the company can be tested and handed over categorised as a ‘mini’ to MARAD. industrial conglomerate When the vessel was with the following as dry-docked, 40 per cent The ‘Steve N’, fully repaired after its major areas of operaof its hull needed critical being dry-docked for eight weeks tions: Shipbuilding and repair, while several oth- at the GNIC Repairs, Port Operations er areas were also in need and Project Managefully completed within the ment. He was pleased that of urgent attention. Work on the dredge in- eight-week period. Shipyard the team was able to comcluded fabrication works, Manager, Mr. Jagdesh Ram- plete the job on time, within repairs to the propulsion sys- jag, said that GNIC was able specification and costs. tem, electrical installments, to fully complete all the work The CEO noted that the removal and installation of and bring the vessel up to GNIC will be looking to two generators and instal- specification. This work was upgrade and expand its falation of an echo sounder described as routine since cilities. system. Mechanical repairs the GNIC is accredited with Additionally, the comand uplifting of the aesthetics experienced staff. pany will continue to work The same dredge started with the Board of Industrial of the dredge was also done. The dry docking and ac- its life in this said shipyard, Training (BIT) to provide tive repair took approxi- and one of the very engineers apprenticeship and on-themately one month, and were that aided in the recent repairs job training in many related areas. Training, one of the strengths of the company, has over the years been provided to more than 1,000 Guyanese. The major challenge currently being faced by the GNIC is the illegal beach operators who put vessels at risk by dragging them up on beaches for repairs rather than a proper dry-docking. GNIC has been appealing to ship owners to avoid this unsafe practice as it puts unnecessary strain on the hull integrity of vessels and could make them unseaworthy. Guyana National Industrial Company Incorporated (GNIC) is a diversified shipyard, port operations and engineering company formed in November 01, 1995. Lease of the Infrastructural Facilities and the acquisition of machinery and equipment, tool and certain categories of inventories which were previously owned by the Guyana National Engineering Corporation Limited, a state owned company. GNIC remains one of the main shipyards in the country and has a long history of shipbuilding in Guyana with reliable and withstanding vessels like the MV Malali and MV Torani being built in the shipyard. The company continues to tender for jobs and they are yet to be beaten on quality, price, experience and competence.
No end in sight
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
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- to stand-off at Region Five RDC
By Clifford Stanley THE stand-off between the Regional Chairman of the Regional Democratic Council of Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) and the APNU+AFC regional councillors entered its seventh month yesterday, apparently with no end in sight. Yesterday’s attempt at a statutory meeting of the council deteriorated into an impromptu cultural show even before the meeting began, with APNU+AFC councillors pounding their fists and objects on the desks and breaking into folk songs every time Regional Chairman Vickchand Ramphal attempted to speak. Ramphal’s pleas for order were consistently ignored by the dissenting councillors, who insisted that they would never give him a hearing until he apologises for boycotting a function in his region in which President David
Granger had participated. DANCING During the ensuing debacle, one prominent APNU councillor abandoned her seat and took to dancing to folk songs belted out by her colleagues. The event causing the conflict occurred in January last when President Granger visited the region and handed over two buses to be used in Region Five for transporting children to and from school. The event took place at Fort Wellington in close proximity to Ramphal’s office, but he was absent from the ceremony. He later said that he had not presented himself at the ceremony because he had not been invited. The APNU+AFC councillors, however, said that he had deliberately boycotted the function, showing disrespect to the President and
they called on him to apologise. Since January to date, Ramphal has refused to apologise and all the statutory meetings of the RDC had to be aborted because of the protest actions by the APNU+AFC councillors. NEW DIMENSION On Thursday some APNU+AFC councillors said that a new dimension of the conflict was that the PPP/C councillors had recently gone ahead and held a statutory meeting without them; had prepared minutes of that meeting signed by the regional vice-chairman instead of the Clerk of the Council and were trying to distribute those minutes as official documents of the RDC. An additional demand was that these “bogus minutes” be withdrawn and the apology offered before the
A futile appeal for order by Regional Chairman Vickchand Ramphal (in blue shirt)
council could proceed with its business. Ramphal ignored those demands and maintained that there was no need for an apology nor withdrawal of the controversial minutes. Meanwhile, after some 90 minutes of disruptions of the meeting, the new Regional Executive Officer of the region, Ovid Morrison and his recording staff withdrew, citing the obvious lack of progress towards order. Observers of the impasse expressed the view that Ramphal may be inclined to offer some kind of apology, but was being blocked from doing so by his political superiors in the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C). In the meantime, they said the impasse will continue with no immediate end in sight.
Disruption by way of a cultural performance at yesterday’s meeting of the Regional Democratic Council of Region Five
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
Edinburgh man Linden man allegedly caught with marijuana charged with rape in hammock of stepdaughter A FORTY-ONE-YEAR old man appeared at the Fort Wellington Magistrates Court where he was charged with the sexual activity of a child…his stepdaughter before Magistrate Alex Moore. He was refused bail and remanded to prison until August 26; the case was transferred to the Sisters Magistrates Court. The unemployed man was not required to plead to the first indictable charge, which was instituted by Detective Constable Marlyn Rowe. Particulars of the charge
state that between June 1 and July 15 at Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice, in the Berbice Magisterial District, he engaged in sexual penetration with the nine-year-old girl, who is his stepdaughter. Inspector Althea Solomon, prosecuting, objected to bail, citing the gravity of the offence and seriousness of the crime. Further, Solomon told the court that advice from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions stipulated that a forensic interview be undertaken so as to garner evidence from the two ad-
ditional sisters, aged seven and five years respectively, after which further charges will be instituted. However, the defendant told the court that he has no knowledge about the allegations. Meanwhile, the plight of the three children became public interest after they were found neglected at Edinburgh Village. They alleged that they were raped and beaten with a hammer and thrown out of the house. Subsequently, they were taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where they are currently being analyzed and treated.
A LINDENER who pleaded not guilty to a trafficking in narcotics charge, was on Thursday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Trevor Craig, 23, of Lot 80 First Street, Cinema Town Linden, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where it was alleged that on July 18, he had 492 grams of cannabis sativa (marijuana) in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. The incident is alleged to have occurred at Sherima Police Outpost, Essequibo. Craig was represented by Attorney Moti Singh, who requested bail. Police Prosecutor, Deniro Jones told the court that on the day in question Craig was among several passengers in a cruiser that was stopped and searched by police. The police asked the occupants to disembark the vehicle with their belongings. Jones stated that a hammock which Craig had in his possession was searched and the marijuana was found concealed inside. According to the Prosecutor, the accused admitted that he owned the drug and that he was going on a hustle. The Chief Magistrate remanded Craig and transferred his matter to the Bartica Magistrates Court for September 1.
Lethem resident remanded for drug possession TWENTY-three-year-old Dexter Franklin appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Thursday charged with the illegal possession of cannabis. It is alleged that on July 18, at Aishalton Village, Region 9, Franklin had in his possession 465 grams of cannabis sativa (marijuana) for the purpose of trafficking. The defendant, who resides at Lot 30 Lethem, pleaded not guilty to the charge and was represented by Attorney Moti Singh who pleaded for bail. The lawyer told the court that on the day in question, his client was among several other persons travelling in a truck that was stopped and searched by police. Singh said that the alleged narcotics were found in the tray of the vehicle and police arrested and charged his client. However, Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones objected to bail on the ground that no special reasons were given to satisfy the court. He said that Franklin admitted to ownership of the drug which was found behind the seat in which he was sitting. The Chief Magistrate remanded Franklin until September 01 and transferred his matter to the Lethem Magistrate's Court.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
Guyana to settle debt to IMPACS
GUYANA’S debt to the value of US$544,749.23 to CARICOM’s Implementing Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) for the period 2009 -2016 is to be liquidated, Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman said, at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday. According to Trotman
“the approved amount will either be paid in six months installments or in two tranches, hopefully by December 31 2016.” Guyana’s debt resulted from its failure to make contributory payments for the past seven years. The regional security agency is the nerve centre of the region’s new multi-
lateral crime and security management architecture, specifically designed to administer a collective response to the crime and security priorities of member states. The agreement establishing IMPACS was signed
in June 2006, and ratified in Suriname on July 18, 2007. Among the key functions carried out by the agency which is also responsible for the day-to-day administrative and technical functions required to fulfill its mandate are research;
evaluation and monitoring; analysis and preparation of background documents; project development and implementation and centralisation and dissemination of information. There are five standing committees through
which IMPACS collaborate, namely Commissioners of Police; Chiefs of the Military; Chiefs of Immigration; Comptrollers of Customs and Heads of Intelligence and Financial Investigative Units. (GINA)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
Gov’t in no rush to abolish death penalty – Trotman
THE Government of Guyana on Thursday said it is not rushing to remove the death penalty from its statute. The statement made by Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Raphael Trotman at a post Cabinet press briefing, followed calls made by International Human Rights activists for Guyana to rid its law books of the capital punishment.
Trotman however said if the APNU+AFC administration becomes inclined to abolish the death penalty then it will be done after wide-spread consultations. “Right now we are not in a position to say that we will be entering into consultations to add to the penalties or to remove them. We don’t feel the impetus right now,” the Minister stated.
Notwithstanding Government’s position on the abolition of the death penalty, Trotman, who is also a lawyer, referenced the 20 year old moratorium on the death penalty here. He said while Guyana is party to many human rights conventions and treaties, the country is being asked to sign on to varying agreements that advocate for the death penalty to remain part of the country’s legislation. The Anti-terrorism legislation makes provision for the death penalty. The death penalty being part of law is a requirement by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF); Guyana is mandated to comply with that provision so as not to be blacklisted by the body. “We are aware indeed of the recent laws dealing with countering terrorism [that] include the death penalty. Those laws brought us into compliance with FATF – we are found placed in a position where international credible organisations are calling on us to enact certain laws which we comply with so that we may not be put on certain lists where terrorism is concerned,” Trotman told reporters. He noted that his administration does not “relish taking lives wantonly.” “We have no intentions of enforcing it but at the present time government is not rushed to remove it from the books.” He stressed however that should Government change its position, widespread consultation with the people of Guyana would have to be done. Even as the European Union (EU) has been pushing, not only for Guyana, but also Caribbean territories to abolish the death penalty, the Minister noted that “even now within the EU there is a strong clamour for the return of the death penalty” “… the president of Turkey is himself calling for the restoration and France itself and its allies had commenced after the Paris attacks --- a series of reprisal attacks in Syria, Iraq and Iran and Libya …and the question is whether bombing communities from 30,000 feet above ground and killing persons including some innocent because these bombs don’t differentiate between hostiles and innocents… whether in a sense this was not a form of the death penalty being advanced by some of the very countries that are asking you to remove from your books the death penalty?” asked Trotman. He said the issue of the abolishment of the death penalty has not been swept under the carpet. “We have the matter under active consideration,” Minister Trotman stated. Meanwhile, Commissioner with the International Commission against the Death Penalty, Justice Navi Pillay on Wednesday called for the re-examination of Guyana Terrorism legislation specific to the death penalty. She said the Terrorism Act has 12 provisions relative to the death penalty. “You don’t pass a law just because something terrible has happened; Law is not done emotionally. The rule of law follows international standards and Guyana is very much a part of the international community, has passed many international treaties and so they are bound to pass laws that are certain and definite and not responding each time to terrorism acts committed here, France or wherever.” Guyana’s law has been amended to allow for the death penalty only in circumstances where members of the joint service or judiciary are killed while on duty. But notwithstanding this amendment to the law, a High Court Judge sentenced a man found guilty of murder of his two brothers to death. Justice Pillay’s plea came just prior to the beginning of the judicial colloquium comprising of local judges and magistrates. “We will lend our voice to ask Guyana to advance forward and not go backward,” she stated.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
Student loans audit
Gov’t to announce collection measures for outstanding billions MONTHS after a forensic audit in the Student Loan Agency at the University of Guyana (UG) revealed billions of dollars in default payments, government will be going after those who have defaulted on their payments. Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, made the announcement before
Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman the press corps on Thursday following a Tuesday cabinet meeting. Finance Minister Winston Jordan was tasked with chairing a subcommittee to consider the forensic audit report. That subcommittee made a number of recommendations on how to collect outstanding monies, but Trotman was tightlipped on naming those recommendations. Instead, Minister Winston Jordan was tasked by Cabinet to announce those measures for collecting monies. Recommendations in that report included a reorganiSation of the loan agency’s structure and business procedure , so the entity could be made compliant with auditing and accounting frameworks. Other measures include changes in the application, guarantee, and repayment processes. Trotman said in the spirit of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee, some generosity will be , as “there are conditions for excusing, or not insisting on payments of some things.” He was cautious not to relinquish further informa-
tion on the matter. A number of high –profile Guyanese were named on the list of loan defaulters published by the Finance Ministry in May of this year. Included are political leaders, judges, magistrates, and other high-ranking public-sector officials. Trotman said while there are high –profile Guyanese on the default payment list, “I believe we are not looking at the profile they are holding now. We are looking at the fact that they were students of the University of Guyana and should be treated fairly and equally.” Trotman denied there will be attempts to waive payments for persons who are close to the David Granger administration. Thus far, since the beginning of the Student Loan Agency in the mid-1990s, $679.9M of the $9.4B pumped into the fund has been repaid. And of the 25,000-plus beneficiaries of this facility, only seven per cent have repaid their loans. The Finance Ministry was advised some time ago to have formal letters sent to defaulting students, reminding them of their obligation to repay their loans. The auditors, R. Seebarran and Co, Chartered Accountants, also recommended legal proceedings for persons who failed in their obligations. The Student Loan Agency was established in 1995 to manage the Student Loan Account, and not a Student Revolving Fund Account. Currently, the agency falls under the direct supervision of the Finance Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, but its day-to-day affairs are managed by the agency’s head, Rawle Sue-Ho, supported by nine full-time staff members. The UG’s Tain campus however has one staff member who provides support throughout the year. SueHo, who has been managing the Student Loan Agency for more than 15 years, informed the auditors that his department is not equipped to pursue defaulters.
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Bicycle mechanic charged with armed robbery A BICYCLE mechanic was remanded to prison on Thursday by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for the offence of robbery under-arms. Oswald Matthews, 44, of Robb Street, Georgetown is accused of robbing Ewert Shepherd of a cell phone and $1,500 cash while being armed with a cutlass on July 12, at High Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown. Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones opposed bail citing the gravity of the charge and the fact that an offensive weapon was used during the commissioning of the robbery. These objections were upheld by the Magistrate and the defendant was refused bail. Matthews, who was unrepresented was ordered to make his next court appearance on September 9.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
ARIES - Contradictions abound as you’re torn between hiding your feelings now and throwing caution to the wind. On one hand, the Moon’s visit to your 12th House of Invisibility reflects your need to retreat into the unseen reaches of your imagination. On the other hand, the Sun’s shift into lively Leo and your 5th House of Spontaneity motivates you to open your heart as wide as you can. Don’t worry if you choose to bury your head in the sand today. There will be plenty of time to come out and play in the days ahead. TAURUS - You’re quite intuitive when it comes to social interactions today and you are willing to meet people more than halfway. You can postpone your agenda, tune into the needs of others and work toward the common good. However, your connection with your inner sense of purpose remains strong, even if it conflicts with your outer behaviour. Holding both perspectives is a challenge but is well worth the effort. The best way to multiply your happiness is to share it. GEMINI - Communication is almost always a top priority for you chatty Twins but getting your message across is not enough today. You want everyone to see you in motion so you can be recognised for what you do. You may even go out of your way to put on such a memorable performance that you transform yourself into a caricature. Don’t focus on how others might perceive you; just show up as the best version of you that you can muster up. An original is worth more than a copy. CANCER - You need to work behind the scenes today so your insecurities can dissipate before they mess up a relationship of interest. Although you may be living in your fantasies, the real world seems too far away from your ideal situation. Don’t lose faith; a pinch of hope is the cosmic superglue that holds the future together. Remember when Cinderella sang, “A dream is a wish your heart makes when you’re fast asleep.” LEO - Voices of ancestors are whispering in your ear today and your subconscious mind is activated by unseen forces. Unfortunately, all this psychic activity can be quite distracting as you try to go about your day in the mundane world. Luckily, the Sun’s return to animated Leo and your 1st House of Self boosts your energy and motivates you to complete whatever you start. Keep your eyes on the finish line until you reach your destination. VIRGO - The more answers you seek today, the more questions you have. People around you seem to harbour bigger dreams than ever once the surreal Pisces Moon enters your 7th House of Others. However, you are clinging to a few fantasies of your own and might be unwilling to let them go. Don’t hide your desires; the sooner you share them with those you trust, the more help you will receive. Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success. LIBRA - An increasing number of social commitments begins to infringe on your personal time. Nevertheless, you’re a champion at balancing your needs with others and happily enter the complicated dance by taking everyone’s interests into consideration now. Establish your work pattern early in the day and stick to it. Your performance may require extra energy today, but finding your mojo and expressing it is the ticket to your current happiness. SCORPIO - You might not be able to separate your work from your creative pursuits today. Everything you do has the potential to be thoroughly enjoyable but you are driven to reach for a higher goal. If promotions or salary increases are not likely, it may be time to widen your choices and think about other options. But contemplating the possibilities is not the same as pursuing them. For now, don’t make any choices you cannot undo. The wheels are still in spin and your world is still in motion. SAGITTARIUS - You’re not sure how to proceed on the home front, especially if you’re running into walls every way you turn. Although you might use techniques of creative visualisation to break through the restraints, you have trouble knowing when to stop. Don’t wait until you’ve gone too far. Pare back your plans and make time to put up your feet. As Carolyn Myss writes, “The soul always knows what to do to heal itself; the challenge is to silence the mind.” CAPRICORN - Your intentions are not as straightforward once the Moon enters the murky waters of Pisces today. You might even feel as if you’ve lost your way, but this is just a temporary state of affairs because you gain momentum from the Sun’s shift into bold Leo and your 8th House of Transformation. You can’t keep things as they are; something needs to change. Once you release your hold on the status quo, the skies will begin to clear and the path ahead will be easier to follow. AQUARIUS - It’s not much fun when the Moon drifts through spacey Pisces today, unless you relinquish power and stop trying to figure everything out. You don’t possess all the answers now, yet the potential for growth is greater than ever while the willful Sun transits through your 7th House of Partners this month. You might not have the clarity you need to make an important decision, but solutions begin to show up when other people get involved. Many hands make light work. PISCES - Your current bout with indecision might hit too close to home as the emotional Moon returns to your changeable sign today. Your moods are swinging so fast that it’s nearly impossible to keep up with them now. Don’t even try; give yourself permission to let your feelings run with the wolves. In the meanwhile, focus all your attention on specific projects at work. Balance these two approaches for your best chance at finding answers that make sense.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
CEO recommends ‘admin’ leave for matron - over service-delivery issues
By Shauna Jemmott WITH the current controversy over service-delivery issues at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, the hospital’s acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Alan Johnson has recommended that the institution’s Director of Nursing Services, Sister Collene Hicks, be sent on administrative leave. This recommendation was made to members of the GPHC Board of Directors at
a recent meeting, according to Board Chairman Dr Carl Max Hanoman, who made the disclosure at a press conference in the GPHC boardroom on Thursday afternoon. Though Dr Hanoman announced that the city hospital suffers a shortage of 275 nurses, a petition has been signed by 150 staff at the institution and submitted to the board seeking the termination of the services of the matron. The matron has been accused of not providing enough nurses to support the delivery
of health care in the various departments and shifting the nurses around the various departments of the hospital, thereby obstructing the smooth flow of service delivery. Complaints of unprofessionalism in service delivery and neglect have also surfaced at the institution, and Dr Hanoman said the institution’s CEO has complained that although he had written the matron on several occasions, she refused to follow instructions. “The CEO wrote her
more than once and she did not follow instructions,” Dr Hanoman said. Dr Hanoman told the press that the GPHC is moving towards specialised training of nurses to fit in to specific departments with the establishment of a programme on Accident and Emergency operations for nurses at the University of Guyana. He explained that while the matron has not yet been sent on administrative leave, the board is giving consideration to the recommendation
to facilitate an investigation into various complaints levelled against her from staff at various levels.
Chairman of the GPHC board, Dr Carl Max Hanoman at yesterday’s press conference
If the investigation warrants termination of the matron’s services at the country’s main hospital, this will be done and another qualified midwife will be considered for the position. The services of Matron Hicks was terminated in June 2015 while the institution was under the leadership of former CEO Michael Khan, but she was restored to her position after protest action by nurses at the institution. Dr Hanoman said he could not understand how the matron was restored after last year’s termination. “The question I have is, "Who brought her back, and why was she sent home?" Hanoman told the press yesterday.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday JULY 22, 2016
Music room commissioned at Covent Garden Primary
AS Covent Garden Primary School celebrates its 50th anniversary, the Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil),in collaboration with the Tradewind ankers and the Parent-Teachers’ A s s o c i a t i o n ( P TA ) on Wednesday handed over a newly-constructed music and art room to the school in the school’s compound, Covent Garden, East Bank Demerara. The event also marked the school’s 50th anniversary which they celebrated on May 26 and the celebration of Guyoil’s 40th Anniversary. The room was built to facilitate music classes being taught by a teacher of the school who completed the music training programme held by the Ministry of Education last August. In the new school
Representative of Tradewind Tankers, Jorge Abukhalil, Guyoil Managing Director (acting) Reggre Bhagwandin, Marketing Manager of Guyoil, Eric Whaul and representative of the Ministry of Education, Cheryl Sampson and two students of Covent Garden Primary at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the official opening of the music building (Photo courtesy MoE)
term students of Covent Garden Primary will be able to play their musical instruments without distracting the other students as it was in the past. Guyoil Managing Director (acting) Reggre Bhagwandin stated that his company was pleased to be a part of a project that will allow the student to be well rounded. He added that music is something that broadens the scope of everyone, while it improves one’s creativity and conceptual thinking. Representative of Tradewind Tankers, Jorge Abukhalil said it was a pleasure to have the opportunity to give back to the education sector. Abukhalil also noted that education is the one thing that can change one’s present and future. He encouraged the students to make use of the opportuni-
ty offered, where they can have the opportunity to step up in life. Meanwhile, the head teacher of the school expressed her gratitude for the kind gesture and assured the companies that the building would be put to use in the coming school term. The Covent Garden Primary School cornerstone was laid on May 26, 1966. It was built by persons in the community as an independence project to accommodate students there, rather than having them travel to Providence Primary. The Ministry of Education has reinforced music as an important aspect of a child’s overall development and to this end the PTA thought it fitting to mark the golden jubilee occasion by embarking on a project to build a music room in the school’s compound.
Guyana’s culture of silence needs ‘excavation’
--UWI sociologist
By Vishani Ragobeer
DR Peta Ann Baker of the Department of Sociology, Psychology and Social Work at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus, Jamaica, said an “excavation” is needed to combat Guyana’s culture of silence. She made the remark at the inaugural Professional Social Work Practitioners and Educators Conference held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre which began on July D r P e t a A n n B a k e r s p e a k i n g d u r i n g 20 and concluded yesterday. Dr Baker, who was the the plenary session on the first day of the Guyana Professional Social Work keynote speaker at the conference, said from her previous Practitioners and Educators Conference
visits to Guyana and from the presentations that highlight recent unfortunate events here, “there is a silence I find... I’m almost tempted to call it a culture of silence.” The sociologist believed that it is embedded deep in the roots of Guyana, and asked the gathering, “Doesn’t some of that silence has [sic] to be excavated? The conference sought to regularise social work practices and improve the quality of work delivered in Guyana. The academic pleaded with the 200-plus social workers at the conference to “excavate the processes that have silenced you” and to do
away with the silence found in this “self-censorship.” Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA) Executive Director Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth, who also addressed the forum, said services should be provided to persons simply because they are people. Dr Baker, while agreeing with the comment, said social service policies were “created for persons who are not considered persons.” University of Guyana (UG) Faculty of Social Science Senior Lecturer Barbara Thomas- Holder said the culture of silence is real. She related that at one
time she was investigating a matter and while conversing with the affected persons, they were hesitant to speak out. Thomas-Holder also pointed out that those who did speak out were cautioned by the other affected persons not to do so. “You advocate on behalf of others so that they may be changed,” the Senior Lecturer said, and questioned, “Why is it so difficult for us to advocate on ourselves?” Both Dr Baker and T h o m a s - H o l d e r d ro v e home the point that suffering in silence is unhealthy, and should not be encouraged.
Contracts for $21.5M inked
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 22, 2016
--to improve river defence
THE National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) on Wednesday inked two contracts totalling $21.5M with S&K Construction Services to improve river defence on the coastland. A total of 265 metres of brushwood dam would be constructed along the foreshore of Walton Hall, Essequibo Coast, Region Two. This project costing $11,529,100 involves the construction of two dams measuring 140m and 225m for the southern reach exposed to wave energy. Construction of this structure is expected to begin in August 2016 with two months duration. The contractor will begin mobilizing resources next week. The defects liability period is also two months. Meanwhile, the contractor will commence construction of 240 metres of brushwood dam at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, Region Four in September 2016. The duration of the contract is two months. The defects-liability period is also two months. This project involves the construction of one dam measuring 60 metres perpendicular to and 180 metres parallel to the foreshore for the eastern reach exposed to wave energy. The brushwood dams will be placed one metre from the sea defences and 240 metres away from the sluice outlet. The groynes are expected to reduce the amount of wave velocities, allowing sling mud to settle out on the lee side of the structure. Over time, the elevation of the foreshore will increase to an elevation suitable for mangrove restoration. It is anticipated that the groynes will accelerate the restoration of this area by creating a larger footprint of suitable foreshore elevations over a much shorter time frame than what would naturally occur in the absence of the groynes. Construction of the brushwood dam is not new to NAREI. In 2015, the institute’s Mangroves Department completed the construction of 100m of brushwood to form a groyne at Walton Hall. The department has a full-time engineer who will be monitoring the projects closely.
Chief Executive Officer of NAREI, Dr. Oudho Homenauth, presents a copy of the contract to the contractor S&K Construction Services. Also in the picture are head of the Mangroves Department, Kene Moseley and NAREI’s Engineer, Luandra Jack
Shaping of Guyana’s future technology experts begins By Vishani Ragobeer A ROBOTIC Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) camp for students commenced on Thursday with the hope of stimulating interest in young minds to develop a passion for technology. The one-day camp targeting children aged 10-14 was organised by Karen Abrams, a Guyanese living in Georgia, USA and several others from the diaspora. At the workshop held at St Rose’s High School, some 30 students were given the opportunity to learn about the key role technology plays in today’s world. These children were the “overflows” who cannot make it into a camp that begins on Monday. They were given an opportunity to learn what they love. The students were drawn from Region Four with the exception of one student from New Amsterdam, Berbice. They were informed of the importance of being knowl-
Students who participated in examining a robot’s software
Thursday’s robotics workshop
edgeable about technology, and focus was given to the pros and cons of the increasingly pivotal role of robots. According to Abrams, the programme was initiated here as only a few “privileged” children are exposed to this technology. She said the “kids of colour,” as in the USA, are “unrepresented,” and do not receive opportunities such as these. Another camp begins on Monday and concludes on August 6. I t w ill b e h o s ted at Queen’s College, St Rose’s High School and centres at Buxton and Lusignan. Abrams is hoping to increase awareness in technology and for every child to be exposed to training in this field. Her team has trained 15 other persons, most of whom are ICT teachers in the school system, and they have pledged to create functioning STEM clubs in Guyana. The camps are funded by members of the diaspora and
are free. Abrams has done similar camps in the U.S. and her children had suggested to her to take the camps to her homeland Guyana, and she listened to them. After she met with First Lady Sandra Granger who was at the time in the U.S., it was arranged for the camps to be hosted here. On Thursday, the students were allowed to put together LEGO MIndstorm EV3 Robots. Ima Christian and brother Joshua Christian, daughter and son of Karen Abrams and co- creators of the award-winning Five-O Police Interaction Tracking App, guided the children through building the robots and teaching basic programming to control the robots. Abrams noted that the robotic kits were “pricey”; however, she and the other members of the diaspora managed to raise some U.S.$8,000 for the kits and for implementation of the overall programme.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
VYC launches women’s entrepreneurial programme T H E Vo l u n t e e r Yo u t h Corps (VYC) has launched its women’s Savings Group Training Initiative (SGTI) which is geared towards recruiting women to learn about saving groups and starting a business. According to a release from the VYC, they are currently in the process of recruiting participants for the four-week programme that will “empower women by fostering their confidence in
saving money and business management.” The SGTI is open to 25 women who want to launch or grow their businesses, and learn to better manage their money. It will also offer tools and skills to help them apply for loans, the release stated. Through the training, women will learn about using savings groups to develop effective savings policies and to develop a business plan
and do book-keeping, among other skills. A savings group is a group of women who save together as a Trust Deed under a single bank account. Groups are owned, managed and operated by the members who convert small amounts of cash into savings. Each member works towards achieving an individual savings target, which encompasses the 20 per cent equity contribution and legal
fees required when applying for a loan. SGTI is a new programme launched by the Volunteer Youth Corps, through the support of Cuso International. It aims to help women transform their creative ideas into income-earning ventures, while also giving them a tool to overcome one of the main barriers that keep women from starting businesses in Guyana.
Old England murder re-trial begins By George Barclay THE Old England Demerara murder re-trial, at which accused Lakeraj Fredericks is alleged to have shot to death Clifton Bonus, 21, in June 2011, over some marijuana seeds, got restarted yesterday following a hung jury and two false starts. Justice James Bovell-Drakes, who is presiding over the re-trial at the Demerara Assizes, began taking evidence after a 12-member jury was empanelled yesterday. And at the end of the day, the judge conducted a voir dire (a trial within a trial in the absence of the jury) to determine the admissibility of an alleged caution statement said to have been given to the police by the accused. The prosecution, conducted by State Counsel Mr Siand Dhurjon and Miss Shonette Austin, was about to tender the alleged caution statement in evidence, when Defence Counsel Mr Lawrence Harris and Mr. Hewley Griffith objected on the grounds that it had not been obtained in accordance with the Judges Rules. As a consequence, Justice Bovell-Drakes who had be-
gun taking evidence in the regular trial had no alternative but to send the jury out of sight and hearing and begin the voir dire. The accused, Lakeraj Fredericks, is charged with having on June 3, 2011, in the county of Demerara, murdered Clifton Bonus, called "Mutts." The first witness called in the regular trial was Karen Lashley, mother of the deceased, Clifton Bonus, followed by the grandfather of the deceased, Cedric Lashley. Also testifying was Lance Corporal Richard Thomas and gold-miner Troy Yorrick. The deceased is said to have been shot in the head with a .32 bullet, but even his mother and girlfriend told the jury that they did not know how he met his death, and defence counsel declined to cross-examine them. The prosecution hopes to call 11 witnesses. At the end of the day, witness Ewin Trotman was giving evidence and was being cross-examined at length by lawyer Mr Griffith. Because the judge will be otherwise engaged, the court will not be sitting until next Wednesday at 09:00 hrs.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016 The remains of the house after the fire
Ogle house goes up in flames
AN early morning fire on Thursday destroyed a two story apartment building at lot 34 South Railway Embankment, Ogle, East Coast Demerara, leaving seven persons homeless and millions in damage and losses. Owner of the house, Birley Wilson who occupies a section of the building with his family told the Guyana Chronicle that he was alerted by one of his tenants around 6:45h that there was smoke coming from the back room of the building. According to the distressed man, he ran upstairs and made a failed attempt to open the door, since it was locked. Wilson however managed to save some of his valuables and estimated his losses to be in the millions. The occupants of the other part the house are Cristal and Shemika Samuels. Cristal told this newspaper that when she woke up, she was greeted with smoke in her apartment. She tried to save her valuables but was unable to do so. Her sister, Shemika, was at work at the time of the fire; however, Shemika told this newspaper that everything was in place at the house when she left for work. It is alleged that the fire started in the upper flat of the eastern section of the house.
Friday July 22th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs Saturday July 23th, 2016 - 05:30 hrs Sunday July 24th, 2016 - 08:30 hrs
When the fire tenders arrived at the scene, the building was already engulfed in flames. The origin of the fire was not determined; however, it was observed that the three buildings in the yard share the same GPL power lines. Firefighters were praised for containing the fire to just the house.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday JULY 22, 2016
Using hip hop to send meaningful message IF you’ve missed America’s Commander –in-Chief, Barack Obama on the comedic Tonight Show with Jimmy Kimmel, or First Lady, Michelle Obama dancing to ‘Uptown Funk’ at this year’s White House Easter Egg Roll, then perhaps the social interactions of even the highest US officials which make them more relatable may come as a surprise to you. Yet, the recent ‘rap’ collaboration of the song, “More than Visas”, between the US Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway and local rapper, Dominic “Rémar” Weekes, has been met with much public approval, as this is the first time in the country that such a project has been undertaken. And it certainly reveals the more “hip” side of the country’s highest US diplomat. The song, though less than two minutes long, incorporates a meaningful message, celebrating the 50-year friendship between Guyana and the United States, while raising awareness of the various ser-
Dominic ‘Rémar’ Weekes
vices that the US Embassy provides, including human rights awareness, aiding in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and other projects. HAND WASH HAND While piggy-backing on a catchy rhythm and the lyrical talent of our very own Rémar, the US envoy chimes in and spits some of his own rhymes, and even endearingly incorporates a sample of the Guyanese vernacular through use of the adage, “hand wash hand mek hand come clean”. In a statement on the US Embassy’s Facebook page, Holloway says that the idea came about in March when he hosted a reception for the young leaders of Guyana. As Holloway explained in the statement: “I asked him if he would write a ‘rap’ song celebrating our 50 years of diplomatic relations. “I wrote a list of about 50 things that we have done, or are doing in Guyana and gave that to Rémar…
“After speaking with Rémar, it was clear that most people associated the U.S. Embassy in Guyana only with visas, and Rémar did a great job in a short song of talking about way more than just the visas. “This started out as a celebratory song, and then became a way of getting our message out to the young people of Guyana…” SURPRISE CALL In an interview with The Buzz, Rémar explained that when one of the embassy’s public affairs officers contacted him saying that the ambassador was interested in doing a song, he initially thought it was a joke. “But then he went on to explain the message he wanted to include in this song, and why he chose music, and in particular hip hop, to convey it,” Rémar said, adding that this is what spurred him to quickly pen the lyrics, based on themes that were shared with him. After a few rehearsals,
the pair hit the Brutal Tracks studio. “It was a pleasure working with him! He was open to learning, and tried to learn as much as possible. And he was willing to do whatever to make this song a success. From the jump, he viewed and respected what I do with my music as a craft and an art form,” Rémar said. The young rapper also noted that it was admirable when such officials interact with the public in personal ways, stating that it makes the message easily received. “I think when an official like the ambassador shows that relaxed, relatable and fun side while conveying a very important message, it goes a far way with connecting with the people,” Rémar said. The song has received more than 50,000 views in one day, along with hundreds of shares and positive comments, and speaks to the appeal of popular culture and the benefits of using such a medium to reach the youth.
mastered by Dynamix Music. The accompanying video was directed by Brian K. Roberts, produced in partnership with Clive Prowell, with make-up by Ashley Johnson. The single, it would seem, is one that the ladies would love.
“The single basically talks about this guy, who just can’t get enough of his lover, who is the aggressor, and even though he knows he has stuff to do, he is weak in her presence, and nothing else matters.” Persons interested in tuning in on Don J’s “In the Morning” can find the single on Google Play, Amazon Music and on iTunes. The single is just part of what ‘Don J’ has planned as he continues to hone his skills and extend his music career. “This is actually my first single, but the plan is to release a seven-song EP by the end of the year; and this is one of the songs off of it,” Don J said. Living in Brooklyn, New York since migrating in 2012, ‘Don J’ recently travelled back home just for the launch, be-
cause he wants to ensure that his Guyanese people are a part of this journey. “I want to take Guyana along with me as I embark on this musical journey as an artist; I couldn’t see it any other way. I want my people to know that I’m out here, representing to the fullest, and I can’t do it without Guyana. I believe you have to dance ah yard before you dance abroad, so I was really excited about sharing this with my people, and have them see what I’m up to,” ‘Don J’ proclaimed, adding: “My main goal is to do all I can to aid in the development of the music industry in Guyana, and artiste development and I believe that over time, we will get it right.”
Dynamix Music’s Don J lauches single this evening By Tamica Garnett
ALREADY known in the music industry for his work as a music producer, song writer, and arranger at Dynamix Music and Start Again Studioz, 26-year-old ‘Don J’ is ready to introduce himself to Guyana as an artiste, beginning with his first single, “In the Morning”, with two mega launches set for tonight and tomorrow night. Tonight’s launch, which goes down at the Hits and Jams headquarters on Lance Gibbs Street, will start off at 19:50hrs and include the release of the song’s video. Tomorrow night’s launch is set for the Aracari Resort from 20:30hrs, and ‘Don J’ is looking forward to feeling the love.
Most might know him by his full name, Don Johnson, son of Guyanese musician and producer, Ian Johnson, the little boy who worked after school at his dad’s music store and studio. But now he’s ‘Don J’, the artiste whose single has been doing damage on the radio, with great reviews everywhere. Speaking with The Buzz, the laid back ‘Don J’ said he felt that it was time that Guyana got to know ‘Don J’. Said he: “I have been working closely with a lot of the big names in Guyanese music for over eight years now through Dynamix Music as one of the song writers, arrangers and producers. “But at this time, I believe it’s time I introduce ‘Don J’ to the world as an artist; and
Don J that’s what has been my plan for this single.” The song is written by ‘Don J’ himself, in collaboration with FOJO, Redd Blazz, and his dad, Ian Johnson. It was recorded at Fojo (Platinum 101 Records) final mix Kode Productions, and
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 22, 2016
Dress with style --no matter your age
DRESSING stylishly no matter your age is easier than ever. And we can do this with a dash of fun. At a certain age, women are expected to give up the heels, wear short hairstyles, and, as they say, dress age-appropriate. But what is age-appropriate? And, should our fashion be tied to our age? At 30 and above, society forces us to question ourselves. Is a mini-skirt still cute? Does bright colours do anything for me? Should my clothes be fitted or loose? I say one’s idea of fashion should always change with age and trends, but more importantly, fashion should be an expression of how we feel. It’s complicated! But how should we dress in our 30s, 40s, 50s while staying trend conscious yet age appropriate? Select your clothing by fit, not size. If you are a Size 4 but 6 fits a little better, go ahead and get the six! If your clothing fits well no matter the size, you will look and feel so much sexier.
I personally love colours, but not many women past their mid-20s feel comfortable and can successfully pull off wearing colours. If you are a little overwhelmed, it’s best you leave neon-coloured clothing and vibrant patterns to the much younger crowd. However, you may add bright accessories to the outfit. Every trend won’t work for everyone. If you are a woman who dresses with the latest trend, always remember you must consider your body type, your age and your lifestyle. And that’s how you decide what trends are going to work for you. I believe that while it’s what’s on the inside that truly counts, it never hurts to have smart, stylish attire that lets your personality shine no matter your age. Don’t rely solely on what’s trending; it’s important to build your wardrobe. The right dress can change your night by giving you an extra dose of confidence; a perfect pair of shoes can keep you going, if you ever feel you have fallen behind. I hope these fashion trends inspire you to look your best whatever your age. Designs by: Andrea Brathwaite
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Nigerian designer launches African print line
WITH Emancipation Day quickly approaching, 23-year-old Deborah Kehin-
de is putting her passion for fashion to good use. The Nigeria-born designer,
who has been living in Guyana for the past three-and-a half years while studying medicine
at the Texila American University, is poised to launch her collection, Odunuyo, on August 13. The collection will be part of her existing line, Rhodadoxa, which was launched in 2014, and will feature a wide range of clothing designed with exquisite African prints handpicked from her homeland, Nigeria. “The vision I have for my line is that I want to make sure that everyone -- not just Africans or people of African descent, but other races -- will also be able to have African print in their wardrobe,” Deborah said. The line is suited to everyday wear, and will allow persons to move past just using the prints for formal occasions. “In Nigeria,” Deborah said, “African prints are worn everywhere; it is not just for special occasions. “Also, there are people of all different races who wear it, and it is not seen as a problem.” As a young girl back home in Nigeria, she said, she would use black garbage bags and make interesting pieces of attire by cutting them up and stitching them together. “I was about seven years old,” she said. “When I would take it to school, my friends told me how much they liked it, but I never took sewing up, because I wanted to be a doctor, so I pushed it aside.” It was only later on in her travels to Europe, when she would visit retail stores and see the high-end designs that her interest peaked once again. While here in Guyana, Deborah admits that she is aware that many persons request African prints to wear on special occasions, which spurred the inspiration for her new collection. Moreover, as she will be choosing fabrics from Nigeria, she is sure that the pieces in her collection will be well received, as they will be different from those on the local market. Though her collection will be launched mid-August, persons who wish to wear their stylish African print outfits in time for Emancipation can find her on Facebook as Dara Kehinde, or can contact her on 652-1833.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday JULY 22, 2016
Deborah Kehinde
Pieces from her new collection, Odunuyo
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 22, 2016
Nothing To Laugh About 9 for NCC GUYANESE are once again in for a treat from their favourite comedians with the staging of Nothing to Laugh About 9 at the National Cultural Centre from tonight until Monday night, starting at 20:00hrs. Directed by Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones, the all-star cast includes Michael Ignatius, Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones, Kirwyn Mars, Leon Cummings, Clemencio Goddette, Brian Goodman, Chris Gopaul, Leza “Radica” Singh, Simone Persaud, Mark “Chinee Man” Kazim, Zoya Moore, Ashley Alfred, Johann David, Leslyn Bobbsemple, Sonia Yarde and Mark-Luke Edwards. Tickets cost $2,000 (Auditorium), $1,500 (Auditorium Rear) and $1,000 (Balcony). Tickets can be purchased at the National Cultural Centre (Box Office), Giftland Mall, Nigel’s Supermarket, Payless Variety Store, Gizmos & Gadgets, Elegance Jewellery & Pawn Shop & Sir Mars.
H w bu this
Buzzing this weekend HERE comes the summer, and with it a whole bunch of exciting activities. TONIGHT **Join several top DJs as they battle for who will be the best at the ‘Addicted to Bass’ competition at the Original Palm Court. Everyone is free before 22:00hrs; admission is $2,000 afterwards. **Party with dancehall DJ, ‘Gully Bop’ at the Gravity Lounge tonight from 21:00hrs. Admission is $2,000 at the door. TOMORROW **Visit the Massy Stores at Providence, East Bank Demerara to take part in their
Health Fair from 09:30hrs to 16:00hrs. The event will be hosted under the theme, “Our family helping your family to better health”. Save a life by donating to the Blood Drive, which will be conducted by the National Blood Transfusion Services. There will also be free glucose and blood pressure testing, cholesterol testing, fitness advice sessions, discounts on health products, nutrition advice and health tips, product sampling and giveaways and much much more! **Ever been to a party and hated the music that was playing? Well, avoid that has-
sle at Gravit’s Boyaka Silent Headphones Party. It will be the first of its kind in Guyana, so C and B there. Who needs music blasting for all to hear! The only person who needs to hear is you! Tickets available at Gravity Lounge, Electronic City and Oasis Café and cost $2,000. A silent party is an event where people dance to music listened to on wireless headphones. Rather than using a speaker system, music is broadcast via a radio transmitter, with the signal being picked up by wireless headphone receivers worn by the participants. You have more than one option of music; just flip a
switch on the headphone and you are set! **Pulse Entertainment presents Taboo Summer Fling, featuring the music of DJ Anisah, DJ Ryan and Selector Carl. Party starts at 21:00hrs. Party your night away with your summer fling at this highly anticipated event. Admission: $2,000 before
22:00hrs. **Get ready for Soca in Summer, the official relaunch party of Club Privilege at the Tower Suites (previously Hotel Tower). Enjoy two-for-one drink specials, and the privilege of being the first to party in the newly renovated establishment. Everyone free before
22:00hrs. **Empire Media Inc. presents the Art of War DJ Competition, which will be hosted at the GFC Ground, Bourda. See which DJ will walk away with $500,000 and bragging rights! Tickets cost $1,500 at the gate, $1,000 beforehand.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 22, 2016
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday JULY 22, 2016
CFU elections set for tomorrow in Miami … both presidential candidates confident ALL 31 member-associations of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) are expected to be represented at the Sheraton Airport Hotel in Miami tomorrow when they convene to elect an executive for the Regional body. Presidential candidate and incumbent leader, Gordon Derrick will be hard-pressed to retain his position against the highly favoured Trinidadian David John Williams in the twoman race for the top post, after the USVI’s Hillaren Frederick withdrew his candidacy two days ago. Both Williams and Derrick are confident of prevailing at the polls and have circulated their manifestos among the members in which they proclaim the realisation of a Caribbean Professional League (CPL) as one of their objectives once voted into office. Antiguan Derrick was elected CFU’s head in May of 2012, one year following the disgraceful end of Trinidadian Jack Warner who ruled the regional body from 1983 after the death of the first president Andre Kamperveen of Suriname who served from 1978 to 1982. Derrick believes he has the support of the majority of
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Gordon Derrick the CFU membership, hence he is ‘confidently optimistic’ of retaining his presidency. Earlier in the year Derrick was barred from contesting the elections of CONCACAF by FIFA’s Ethics Committee, a decision he has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) and is awaiting their decision. The statutes of CFU do not allow for candidates to undergo integrity checks so the Antiguan FA’s General Secretary will vie to hold on to his post for another four years. The Derrick-led administration of CFU has been under the microscope of CONCACAF in recent times, with a forensic audit revealing a secret bank account and liabilities worth over $1M. All grants and payments to CFU have been stopped and
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salaries of Administrative staff are being paid directly by CONCACAF. Trinidadian Williams is also no stranger to the ‘Beautiful Game’. He is the owner of T&T’s Pro team W Connection which he established in 1999 and last year November he was elected to head the Trinidad and Tobago FA (TTFA). Williams says his mission is to ‘redefine the CFU’s vision, mission and core values’ and has indicated the commitment of UEFA, once he is elected, to assist with establishing a Professional League in the Caribbean. At a recent meeting held in Port of Spain with most member associations Williams released his manifesto and feels his vision was well accepted and remains upbeat at becoming
David Williams the new head for Caribbean football. In addition to electing a president, the other positions to be voted for are four vice-presidents and four executive committee members. Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) boss, Wayne Forde, is among nine candidates seeking the four positions. Forde will be accompanied to Miami by second vice-president of the GFF, Rawlston Adams.
Mayor Kaplan’s lawyer files motion to dismiss USACA suit LEGAL representatives for Lauderhill Mayor Richard J Kaplan have filed a motion seeking to dismiss the USA Cricket Association lawsuit which is attempting to stop six Caribbean Premier League games from happening at the Central Broward Regional Park in Florida next week. Douglas T Marx, of law firm Waldman Trigoboff Hildebrandt Marx & Calnan, filed a motion yesterday afternoon, on behalf of Kaplan, arguing for a dismissal on procedural grounds as well as defending the sanctioning process as legitimate. A suit was filed on Monday by former USACA executive secretary Kenwyn Williams, with USACA as a co-plaintiff, claiming that the CPL had violated sanctioning procedures by going through the ICC to receive permission to stage the event in Florida instead of USACA, the gov-
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now have two matches remaining. They play Bermuda today, and powerhouse Barbados tomorrow, as the competition comes to a close. Though an easy fight could be expected against Bermuda, things will definitely be tough for the Girls when they face Barbados, whose team includes Girls’ Under-13 champion Su-
erning body in the USA. Kaplan told ESPNcricinfo on Wednesday that he was confident the suit would fail, and that local officials had gone through the proper sanctioning with the ICC since USACA’s authority was stripped after suspension by the ICC in June 2015. In the filing submitted on Wednesday, Marx argued two points. First, Williams filed the suit as a pro se litigant, meaning Williams is prosecuting the case on his own. Marx’s filing states that Williams is not licensed to practice law in Florida and thus the case should be thrown out. Williams, who resides in New Jersey, has worked in the past as a paralegal for a New York law firm. The games are scheduled to be held from July 28 to 31 in Lauderhill. (ESPN Cricinfo)
Three ...
mairaa Suleman, Girls’ Under-15 champion Meagan Best and Girls’ Under-17 champion Amanda Haywood. Barbados and Guyana currently have three wins each, having already taken down Bermuda (5-0), Jamaica (3-2), and the Cayman Girls (5-0). Bermuda are, up to yesterday, still to get their foot in the door with a win.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 22, 2016
Russian Olympic ban upheld by CAS …IOC expected to make final decision on Sunday
By Marina Depetris and Jack Stubbs LAUSANNE, Switzerland/ MOSCOW (Reuters) - Sport’s highest tribunal yesterday rejected Russia’s appeal against a doping ban for its entire athletics team from the Rio Olympics starting in 15 days’ time, drawing swift and angry condemnation from Moscow. The decision by the Swissbased Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) increases the possibility that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will now exclude Russia from all sports, not just track and field, in Rio de Janeiro. That would mark the deepest crisis in the Olympic movement since the U.S. and Soviet boycotts of the 1980s, and would be a grave blow to a nation that prides itself on its status as a sporting superpower. “CAS rejects the claims/ appeal of the Russian Olympic Committee and 68 Russian athletes,” CAS said in a statement
IAAF president Sebastian Coe that backed the right the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) to suspend the Russian athletics federation. The head of Russia’s delegation to the Rio Olympics said the decision was devoid of any logic, and double Olympic champion pole vaulter Yelena Isinbayeva called it “the funeral of athletics”. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry
Peskov said: “I certainly regret such a decision by CAS which refers to absolutely all of our athletes.” The ban was imposed last November by the IAAF after an independent report uncovered rampant state-sponsored doping in Russian athletics. It was maintained in June after the IAAF Council ruled that not enough progress had been made in transforming Russia’s anti-doping programme. Russia had argued it had taken steps to clean up the sport, and that the blanket ban was unfair to individual athletes with no record of doping. “The principle of collective responsibility is hardly acceptable,” Peskov said. Interfax news agency quoted Russian Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko as saying Russian officials would consider what steps to take in the light of the court’s decision, and that things could not be left as they are. The ball is now in the court
Froome moves closer to third Tour de France title By Julien Pretot
MEGEVE, France (Reuters) - Britain’s Chris Froome edged nearer retaining his Tour de France title when he won the 18th stage, a 17km mountain time trial, to extend his overall lead to almost four minutes yesterday. The Team Sky rider, aiming to become the first to retain the title since Miguel Indurain in 1995, clocked a best time of 30 minutes 43 seconds on a course featuring the punishing Cote de Domancy, a 2.5-km climb at an average gradient of 9.4 percent. He beat time trial specialist Tom Dumoulin by 21 seconds and Italian Fabio Aru by 33 seconds. “I really didn’t expect to beat Tom today, pacing was key. I started off steady and really controlled that first part then gave it everything I had,” said Froome. “I’ve got a great advantage now.” Five-time Tour champion Eddy Merckx said the Briton already had the Tour sewn up. “I can’t see any reason why he could not keep the yellow until Paris,” the Belgian said. “His rivals are just sitting in his team mates’ wheels. Nobody can beat him at this Tour.” Dutchman Bauke Mollema, who started the day 2:27
behind Froome in the general classification, lost 1:25 and trails the defending champion by a massive 3:52 going
Chris Froome into two final stages in the Alps before Sunday’s parade to the Champs Elysees. Froome’s compatriot Adam Yates is third, 4:16 off the pace, as the race to the podium is set to heat up with at least five riders still in the mix for second place. Colombian Nairo Quintana, runner-up to Froome in 2013 and 2015, had another tough day in the saddle, losing 1:10. The Movistar rider is fourth overall, 4:37 behind Froome. On his heels is Frenchman Romain Bardet, 4:57 behind after finishing a surprise fifth yesterday, while Australian Richie Porte, fourth yesterday, is sixth three seconds further back. “I’m happy it’s a good time trial, I’ve got good sensations,
it was pleasing. There are still two big stages left. I hope I’ll find a good terrain to attack,” said Bardet. CAUTIOUS START Froome started cautiously but finished strong to claim his second stage win in this Tour, raising his fist in celebration after crossing the line. “As always in the time trial the pacing strategy is critical, particularly in one like today where it was very easy, with that first steep ramp, to go out a little bit too hard and pay for it at the end,” said Team Sky manager Dave Brailsford. “So you have to be brave on a course like that and hold a little bit back to start with, so that you can get all your effort out over the course.” Froome was one of few riders to use both a time-trial bike and a rear disc wheel, which played a part.` “We went for a very lightweight TT bike, disc wheels, I think Chris was one of the only riders to do a disc but we spent a lot of time doing the Maths and the calculations and it looked like it came out right thankfully,” said Brailsford. Today’s 19th stage is a demanding 146-km mountain trek with an uphill finish at Saint-Gervais Mont Blanc.
of the IOC to decide whether Russia should be excluded from all sports at the Rio Games, starting on August 5. Pressure on the IOC to take such a step increased this week after another report commissioned by the World Anti-Doping Agency revealed evidence of systematic state-sponsored doping by Russian competitors before and during the 2014 Winter Olympics in the Russian city
of Sochi. The IOC’s executive committee met to discuss the issue on Tuesday and though it condemned the activities and started disciplinary proceedings against many of those involved, it postponed any announcement on potential blanket ban pending legal advice and the outcome of the CAS hearing. The IOC is expected to reach a final decision on Sunday. The IAAF said it was
pleased that CAS had supported its stance. “While we are thankful that our rules and our power to uphold our rules and the anti-doping code have been supported, this is not a day for triumphant statements,” IAAF president Sebastian Coe said. “I didn’t come into this sport to stop athletes from competing. It is our federation’s instinctive desire to include, not exclude.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday JULY 22, 2016
All-rounder Matthews drives Barbados to a 32-run win over T&T … Jamaica oust Windwards by 56 runs
By Rajiv Bisnauth LED by a superb allround performance from Player-of-the-Match Hayley Matthews; Barbados easily disposed of Trinidad and Tobago in the opening round of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Regional Women’s T20 tournament yesterday at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. Matthews’ 20-ball 27 and Kycia Knight 23 off 24 balls lifted Barbados to 1068, a total that was defended
spiritedly in the field to keep the Trinidadians 32 runs short. Leading the way almost single-handedly was the 18-year-old Matthews, whose useful innings and decisive bowling spell of 4-17 during the back end of the Trinidadians’ chase completely shifted the momentum. Both Matthews and Knight, with 52 T20s together, gave Barbados the perfect flurry at the start after they were inserted to bat first, with an opening partnership of 52 off 39
balls. The key feature of this alliance was both players’ ability to rotate the strike, with Matthews at her best, smashing five boundaries during her stay. However, they were separated six runs apart off the bowling of Lee Ann Kerby (2-19) and Anisa Mohamed (2-21) respectively. Deandra Dottin and Shaquana Quintyne then injected 17 for the third wicket, and from a position of 74-2 in 11.2 overs, Barbados were
England drop Ball and Finn for second (REUTERS)-England pacemen Jake Ball and Steve Finn have been left out of the revised squad for the second test against Pakistan starting today, captain Alastair Cook said yesterday. Fast bowler James Anderson and all-rounder Ben Stokes are in line to return after injury as England bid to level the four-Test series after losing the first match by 75 runs at Lord’s. Anderson did not play in the first Test due to a shoulder problem while Stokes has not featured since knee surgery in May. Adil Rashid might
-- Steven Finn and Bally are missing out,” opening batsman Cook told reporters. “That means, obviously, Ben Stokes and Jimmy Anderson are back in and Adil’s going to be in the 12, just depending on what happens to that wicket by tomorrow.”
Ben Stokes be used as a second spinner, said Cook. “We’re going to name a 12
Revised squad Alastair Cook (c), Alex Hales, Joe Root, James Vince, Gary Ballance, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, C h r i s Wo a k e s , S t u a r t Broad, James Anderson, Ben Stokes, Adil Rashid
Hayley Matthews stemmed by a slew of wickets, including Dottin (13) and Quintyne (13), and managed to score just 31 runs from the remaining overs to end on a low note, but they had enough on the board. Karishma Ramharack and Shenelle Lord were the other two successful bowlers with a wicket apiece. The Trinidadians then stumbled from the outset, and were unable to forge any meaningful partnerships, with only Reniece Boyce (14), Rachael Vincent (13) and Mohamed (13), managing double digits. The Barbadians showed perfect bowling skills, led by the off-spinner, Matthews. Keila Elliot (2-24), Shamilia Connell (1-6) and Dottin (1-
Stephanie Taylor 24), were equally impressive. Meanwhile, Stephanie Taylor cracked a brilliant half-century first-up as Jamaica crushed Windward Islands by 56 runs. The Jamaicans did it in style by rattling up 148-3 in their 20 overs by riding on Taylor’s 62 and then reducing their opponents to 92-5. Taylor first put on 18 for the first wicket with Jodian Morgan, who made 15 with three boundaries when she was bowled by Akeira Peters. At the fall of Morgan’s wicket, the Windwards captain driving in front of the wicket with power and panache, then got involved in a fine partnership of 57 for the second wicket with Natasha McLean, who was eventually bowled by
Afy Fletcher for 21. The innings was given another impetus by the arrival of Chedean Nation. The pair added 77 for the third wicket, with Taylor registering her fifty off 41 balls in the process. The pair took full advantage of the loose bowling attack, with Taylor reaching the boundary on six occasions and beyond the ropes twice before she was dismissed off Qiana Joseph while Nation hit past the ropes three times in her unbeaten 29. During the run chase, Jamaicans bowled with purpose and also fielded brilliantly, in total contrast to the dismal show put up by their rivals, to emerge deserving winners. The Islanders found scoring difficult on a slow pitch, and only Juliana Nero (23), Fletcher (19), Joseph (16 not out) and Stacy Ann Adams (12), provided some fight, but their efforts were not enough. Roshana Outar was the pick of the bowlers, with 2-16 while Taylor, Vanessa Watts and Chinelle Henry all claimed a wicket to their credit. The tournament continues today with three more matches.
Guyana capable of defending U-19 titles, says Amsterdam By Rajiv Bisnauth
COACH of the national Under-19 team, Adrian Amsterdam, says Guyana stand a good chance of retaining the Regional titles in St Vincent. Amsterdam, who is a member of the national senior selection panel, made his prediction as Guyana prepare to defend their titles when the tournament bowls off on July 27 and concludes on August 21. “We have a group of talented players – five guys from last year,” Amsterdam told the Guyana Chronicle. Amsterdam added, “We have some excellent players in terms of level of commitment and the talent pool. “We have Keemo (Paul), the skipper Travis (Persaud), Sherfane (Rutherford), Ronaldo (Alimohamed) and Akinie (Adams), returning from last year, so we have a nucleus that can win both tournaments once more.” Meanwhile, the squad completed their pre-camp preparation Tuesday at the Chetram Singh Centre of Excellence, La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast Demerara,
Guyana Under-19 captain Keemo Paul and Amsterdam disclosed that he is pleased how preparation has progressed, despite the inclement weather. “Our preparation had one setback – the weather, but we used the indoor facility as much as we could – we had one turf session today (yesterday) at GYO, but generally, I am pleased how preparation has progressed,” Amsterdam said. Guyana are the defending champions in both formats. They won the previous threeday competition which was played two years ago here, and have won the 50 overs-a-side title over the last two years at home and in Jamaica.
This year, the tournament will comprise three rounds of three-day matches, which take centre stage over the first 11 days, and the Youth Super50 which fields seven teams – the six territorial sides from Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Leeward Islands, Trinidad & Tobago and Windward Islands – along with a composite side from ICC Americas. Each team will play the other once in a round-robin competition, featuring seven rounds of 50 overs-a-side matches, with the two teams accumulating the most points qualifying for the Final to determine the tournament winners on August 21 at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex. The Guyanese will depart for St Vincent on Sunday. There were no real surprises in the 14-man squad, with Persaud leading the 14man squad. The other members of the squad are Ronaldo Renee, Malcolm Hubbard, Keshram Shabodan, Joel Seitaram, Looknauth Chinkoo, Bhaskar Yadram, Joshua Persaud, Sylus Tyndall and Raymond Perez.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 22, 2016
Walton, Steyn take Tallawahs to CPL playoffs
C H A D W I C K Wa l t o n slammed 97 as Jamaica Tallawahs beat Barbados Tridents by 36 runs in a rain-affected fixture in Kingston to qualify for a place in the playoffs of CPL 2016. After rain lashed down on Kingston for over an hour to reduce the match to an 18 overs-a-side affair, Tallawahs amassed 195 for 5, largely thanks to a second-wicket stand of 127 between Walton and Kumar Sangakkara, who made a 31-ball 50. In reply, Tridents slipped to 55 for 4 in the eighth over, before Nicholas Pooran mounted a spirited fightback, bringing up the fastest half-century this season, off 23 balls. But as the asking rate crept up to over 15 runs an over less than halfway into the chase, Tridents were left with no option but to go for broke. They were bowled out for 159 in the final over. “Winning the toss was a good decision, but we
“Guys who get an opportunity should show why they deserve to be in the XI. We can’t slip up going into the business end. Hopefully this is another learning experience for us and we’ll look to fight another day.” Tridents had an early boost when Ravi Rampaul removed Chris Gayle in the third over of the match. For the next hour, though, they came under Walton’s wheel. The opener, who had topped 20 just once this sea-
Chadwick Walton hits nine fours and five sixes in his 54-ball 97. didn’t bowl well, and so we deserve to be on the losing side,” Tridents captain Kieron Pollard said after the match. “You can’t bowl contrary to what your plans are and still end up winning. We have had a few guys injured, but we can’t use that as an excuse.
Cremer named Zimbabwe captain for Test return …four uncapped players called up (REUTERS)-Zimbabwe have appointed Graeme Cremer as captain of a 16-man squad named yesterday for the two-Test series against New Zealand starting next week. The 29-year-old spinner replaces Brendan Taylor in the role for Zimbabwe’s first Test since they lost three matches in Bangladesh in late 2014. Four uncapped players - Chamu Chibhabha, Prince Masvaure, Peter Moor and Taurai Muzarabani - were selected in the squad for the matches in Bulawayo. The first Test begins next Thursday and the second on Aug. 6. It will be the first test at the Queens Sports Club in almost five years since New Zealand won a one-off match there by 34 runs in November 2011. New Zealand play Zimbabwe A in a three-day practice match at the Harare Sports Club on Friday before flying to Bulawayo.
Graeme Cremer Squad Graeme Cremer (captain), Sikandar Raza Butt, Regis Chakabva, Brian Chari, Tendai Chatara, Chamunorwa Chibhabha, Craig Ervine, Hamilton Masakadza, Prince Masvaure, Peter Moor, Richmond Mutumbami, Taurai Muzarabani, Njabulo Ncube, Donald Tiripano, Sean Williams. (Reporting by Mark Gleeson in Cape Town; Editing by Ken Ferris)
son, struck nine fours and five sixes over the course of his 54-ball knock, before being caught at long-on in an attempt to clear the ropes and bring up his maiden T20 century. Andre Russell, promoted to No.4, was out first ball to David Wiese, but Rovman Powell put the finishing touches with one four and four sixes in his unbeaten 14ball 34 as Tallawahs smashed 44 off the last three overs. Tridents came out swing-
ing and lost their openers - Shai Hope and Ahmed Shehzad - inside five overs as Dale Steyn and Andre Russell got among the wickets. Pacer Timroy Allen then struck twin blows, including that of Shoaib Malik, to leave Tridents in tatters at 55 for 4. Pooran and Pollard kept the innings ticking along, before the pressure of bringing out the big shots resulted in Pollard’s falling into the short-ball trap set by Steyn. Two balls later, Steyn had
his 200th T20 wicket when fellow South African David Wiese chipped one to Gayle at midwicket to leave Tridents at 90 for 6. Pooran then muscled his way to six meaty sixes before his run-out deflated Tridents’ chase. Steyn finished with 4 for 27 as Tallawahs secured a final berth in front of adoring home fans. The visitors, meanwhile, slipped to their third loss in seven matches. (ESPN Cricinfo)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday JULY 22, 2016
Ramdhanis into quarter-finals at Pan Am Championships PLAYING some tight drop shots and deep cross-court, Guyana’s Priyanna Ramdhani smashed her way to Girls’ singles while Narayan Ramdhani also made it into the Boys’ doubles quarter-finals when matches of the Pan American Junior Badminton Championships continued on Wednesday in Peru. Playing in high altitude, cold conditions of Peru’s winter, Guyana’s Pan American four-time medallist Priyanna Ramdhani again performed at her best as she took down the Priyanna Ramdhani (right) battles against Peru’s top lanky Pinillos in a two-game player Adriana Bernales Pinillos. match. In the first game Priyan- The match was 3-all before until the game finally ended yanna maintain her stamina, na came back from being 2 Priyanna once again took the 21-18 in Ramdhani’s favour. as she battled against Pinillos points down to take the lead. lead. The two traded points The second game saw Pri- and the prevailing conditions.
The national champion kept up, but played a close game coming back from behind again and setting the game to a level 20-all, before earning another two points to win the match 22-20. During this game Pinillos was slapped with a yellow card for indiscipline against Priyanna. In the Boys’ doubles Narayan Ramdhani and Shea Martin made it into the quarterfinals after taking out the Mexican team of Ailton Josue Correa Martinez and his partner Francisco Rafael Trevino Buenrostro. As the tournament continued yesterday Narayan and Martin were set to challenge
Ricky Liuzhou and Cadmus Yeo of USA. Priyanna was also scheduled to take on number two seed Sharon Au of Canada in the Girls’ singles and was set to team up with Sara Michelle Barrios versus the number one seeded team of Sharon Au & Rebecca Lee in the Girls’ doubles. Guyans’s participation at the Championships was made possible through the sponsorship of the Guyana Olympics Association, the National Sports Commission, Mr Yesu Persaud of Demerara Bank, Mr Philip DaSilva, Mr Neville Osman and Continental Group of Companies (SUNBURST).
COURTS donates $200 000 in trophies to Police Athletics and Swimming Championships ORGANISERS of the upcoming Guyana Police Force Annual Athletics and Swimming Championships received a welcome donation of $200 000 in trophies from furniture giant COURTS, at a handing-over ceremony held yesterday at the company’s flagship Main Street location. COURTSs Finance Director, Neil Boucher, was on hand to make the donations, handing them over to assistant coordinator of the event, Lyndon Wilson. Boucher remarked that the donation is in keeping with the company’s dedication to supporting sports and related events. No stranger to supporting sporting event, COURTS has been a contributor to the Police Championships for a number of years. Boucher expressed how happy the company was to once again be on board with the venture, especially since events such as the Champi-
onships play an important role within the GPF. “The Police motto is to protect and serve, basically you have to have an all-round Police Force. We see sport as an integral part in that aspect of it, so we are very happy to be part-sponsor in whatever way we can and these trophies are going to go a very far way. This is one of the many (events) that we do for our social partners and the Guyana Police Force is very keen to have this kind of activity,” Boucher commented. In his remarks Wilson thank Boucher, and COURTS, for their support noting that the trophies will boost the event in a major way. “Their contribution is worth a lot to us,” Wilson said. Touching on what can be expected at this year’s Championships, Wilson mentioned that several regional police force athletes
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Friday July 22, 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) 82-A B De Villers (Tridents vs Patriots, July 13) (2) 180/6-20 overs (Tridents vs Patriots, July 13) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who made the first ‘duck’ in Hero CPL 2016? (2) Who registered the first ‘golden duck’ in Hero CPL 2016? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
COURTS Finance Director Neil Boucher (left) hands over one of the trophies to Assistant Coordinator of the Police Championships, Lyndon Wilson.
are expected to travel to Guyana to take part in the event, which starts this Sunday with the road race and swimming competitions. “We have overseas athletes coming from the Caribbean Police Force, who will be here to participate also. The sport will commence on Sunday with the road race at 06.00hrs, the swimming at 10.00hrs then from Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday it will be the athletics, track and field.” Wilson explained. The swimming segment of the Championships is scheduled to take place at the
National Aquatic Centre, in Liliendaal, while the athletics segment will be held at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary. These championships will feature the best athletes of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as they compete with other athletes from police forces across the Caribbean. Athletes who do well at this Championships will then move on to represent the GPF at the Inter-Service Annual Athletics Championships (ISAACs), also called the Joint Services Championships, later this year.
Amazon Warriors name Rayad Emrit as captain for remainder of Hero CPL
… Aussie Chris Lynn appointed vice-captain GUYANA Amazon Warriors have named Rayad Emrit as captain in place of New Zealander Martin Guptill for the remainder of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) campaign, with in-form Australian batsman Chris Lynn stepping up to take the vice-captaincy. The experienced Emrit, 35, has played in 36 Hero CPL games since 2013, having also previously featured for Barbados Tridents, and has been a key performer in Guyana Amazon Warriors’ ascent up the league table with nine wickets to date in seven matches this season. Capped twice for the West Indies at One-Day In-
Rayad Emrit ternational level, the rightarm medium-fast bowler has displayed strong leadership skills this season. Emrit said: “I am delighted and extremely honoured to be given this opportunity to lead the Guyana Amazon
Warriors team for the rest of the tournament. Martin did a fantastic job and I just want to continue in that vein by leading the team to more victories and consolidating our position on top of the table. I want to thank the franchise owner and management for having the faith in me to lead such a great group of players and our aim is to go all the way.” Chris Lynn, meanwhile, has been in devastating form with the bat for the Amazon Warriors and has so far scored 246 runs in seven innings at an average of 49.2, and an impressive strike rate of 130.2. The 26-yearold Australian international captained the Brisbane Heat
in last year’s Big Bash and was selected as the Player-of-the-Tournament having finished the competition as the tournament’s leading run-scorer and six-hitter. The Amazon Warriors will next face St Lucia Zouks in the Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium on Sunday, July 24 at 17:00hrs. GUYANA AMAZON WA R R I O R S : S o h a i l Tanvir, Nic Maddinson, Dwayne Smith, Chris Lynn (vice-captain), Rayad Emrit (captain), Adam Zampa, Devendra Bishoo, Jason Mohammed, Christopher Barnwell, Veerasammy Permaul, Orlando Peters, Assad Fudadin, Anthony Bramble, Paul Wintz, Steven Jacobs, Steven Katwaroo, Ali Khan, Shimron Hetmyer
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 22, 2016
Guyana’s Consul General hosts schoolboy cricketers … Lasting bonds and friendships established through sports MS CITA Pilgrim, Consul General of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in Barbados, has stated that participation in the just concluded Sir Garfield Under-19 schoolboys cricket tournament provided the young Guyanese players with an excellent opportunity to build lasting friendships. She delivered an address to members of the teams representing Queen’s College of Guyana, Electra Institute of Diamond, East Bank Demerara and New Amsterdam Multilateral at a reception at the consulate last Tuesday. Also in attendance were players from Queen’s College of Barbados, several Queen’s College of Guyana ‘Old Boys’ resident in Barbados, former Barbados and West Indies opening batsman Cammie Smith and prominent Barbados Q.C and former Harrison College of Barbados old boy Vernon Smith. Ms Pilgrim told the gathering that in tournaments such as the Sir Garfield Sobers competition, now in its 30th year, everyone is a winner, since the players gain valuable experience and meet players from other territories, thereby, establishing friendships for life. The Consul General stated that the tournament also allowed the schoolboys to learn at a tender age the true meaning of being team players. She stated that participating in the tournament allowed the boys to understand the value of sports as part of their
school activities. Cammie Smith further emphasised how, through sports, friends for life are established. He told the gathering that he became friends with Australian Test player Richie Benaud on his first tour of Australia with the West Indies team. Smith said that since that day, he received a telephone call or a card on his birthday from him. Ve r n o n S m i t h i n a brief address also told the gathering that he first met Mr Cecil Pilgrim, husband of the Consul General and a retired Ambassador for Guyana, in 1949 when Queen’s College visited Barbados to play a series against Harrison College. That friendship, he said, continued to the present. This is the first time the Queen’s College team participated in the tournament. Team Manager Osafa Dos Santos was instrumental in their participation as he stated that he had accompanied another Guyanese schoolboys team, and since being associated with QC, he felt that it was an excellent opportunity for the boys in the development of their game. He said that although the players have not been playing as much cricket as he would have liked, due to examinations and the state of the playing field, they gave a good account of themselves. QC won one game, drew two and lost two games.
Queen’s College students with Consul General Pilgrim at the Guyana Consulate in Barbados at the reception hosted by the her.
Students of the Electra Institute at the Guyana Consulate in Barbados at the reception hosted by the Consul General.
Three for Three! Guyana Girls bag third consecutive win
… face Bermuda today, Barbados tomorrow
Guyana’s Taylor Fernandes during her match against Faith Gillezeau
THE Guyana Girls’ team are intent on their fight to recapture the junior Caribbean title after bagging another win, as they overpowered Trinidad 4-1 yesterday when competition in the MAPLES Caribbean Junior Squash Championships continued at the South Sound Squash Club
in the Cayman Islands. Guyana’s only loss came when Rebecca Low went under against Alexandria Yearwood, going down 3-11, 4-11, 4-11, in the Girls’ final match of the day. In the opening match, Girls’ Under-19 champion Larissa Wiltshire easily disposed of Marie Claire Bar-
cant 11-7, 11-3, 11-1, which was followed by Abosadie Cadogan’s 11-2, 11-5, 11-5 win over Chloe Walcott. Taylor Fernandes had a bit more of a challenge when she battled against Faith Gillezeau, taking the first set 11-9, but losing the second 5-11, before coming back to take the next two
sets 11-8, 11-2. Makeda Harding followed by beating Jinan Al-Rawl 11-7, 11-4, 11-4. The win marked the team’s third consecutive win, coming off the heels of their 5-0 win against Jamaica, and 4-1 victory over Trinidad. The Girls See page 30
Classy Kohli puts India in command
A MAGNIFICENT 12th Test century from captain Virat Kohli put India in a strong position at stumps in Antigua on the first day of the four-match series against West Indies. Kohli opted to bat first after winning the toss at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and the skipper made the most of a flat pitch by scoring a majestic 143 not out to guide the tourists to 302-4 at the close. The classy Kohli needed only 134 balls to bring up his second-fastest Test century in North Sound, while opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan (84) made his first Test half-century in 11 months before falling to recalled leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo. Bishoo took 3-108 in his first Test since last October as the Windies bowlers toiled in the sun watched by a sparse crowd, with India making a positive start to their first Test under new head coach Anil Kumble. It had all started so
Virat Kohli celebrates his 12th century. well for the Windies, who handed a Test debut to spinner Roston Chase, as Shannon Gabriel (1-43) was rewarded for a hostile opening spell when Murali Vijay (7) could only fend a sharp, rising delivery
to Kraigg Brathwaite in the slips. Dhawan punished anything short and wide, also using his feet well against the spinners as India recovered to 72-1 at lunch, but Bishoo struck with his fourth deliv-
Brazil `terror’ arrests ahead of Olympic Games
BRAZILIAN police have arrested 10 members of a group alleged to be preparing acts of terrorism, two weeks before the start of the Olympic Games. They were not members of so-called Islamic State but had tried to make contact with the group, officials said. The justice minister said the group was in the planning stage of an attack and police acted as a preventative measure. Alexandre Moraes described the cell as “absolute amateurs” and “ill-prepared” to launch an attack. All those arrested were Brazilian and two more suspects were being sought, he said. They were detained across 10 different states,
and had been in contact via messaging services such as Whatsapp. Group members had attempted to contact a weapons supplier in neighbouring Paraguay to get AK 47
assault rifles, but there was no evidence of any being bought. An emergency meeting of the Brazilian cabinet has
been called. More than 80 000 police and soldiers will patrol Rio streets for the games which end on August 21. The federal government said last week that it was releasing an extra $24M (£18M) to beef up security ahead of the Olympics. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recently concluded that Rio de Janeiro had overcome setbacks and was “ready to welcome the world” to the 2016 Olympics. There have been fears over Rio’s readiness because of building delays, the Zika virus and political crises. Mr Moraes told a news conference there was a “minimal probability of a terrorist act during the Rio Olympics.” (BBC Sport)
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ery in the first over after the interval to get rid of Cheteshwar Pujara (16). Kohli strode to the crease full of confidence and the skipper scored freely in a stand of 105 with lefthander Dhawan, who used the pace of a rapid Gabriel delivery to upper cut the quick for six. The elegant Kohli played some exquisite drives and rocked onto the back foot at every opportunity to score through the leg side as he raced towards another century. Carlos Brathwaite’s frustration got the better of him when he hurled the ball at Kohli following a firm straight drive back at the bowler, prompting the captain to give him a stern glare. Kohli responded by hitting the all-rounder for three consecutive boundaries to rub salt into the wounds, but the century stand was broken when Bishoo trapped Dhawan leg-before on the stroke
Leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo takes 3 for 118 of tea. Bishoo had a third wicket when Ajinkya Rahane (22) was caught at midwicket to leave India 236-4. The key wicket of Kohli was not forthcoming, though, and he raised his bat casually after bringing up three figures with
a single off his legs. Ravichandran Ashwin (22 n.o.) and Kohli combined for an unbroken stand of 66 to put India, who recalled Mohammed Shami as one of five specialist bowlers, well on top.
SCOREBOARD INDIA 1st innings M. Vijay c K. Brathwaite b Gabriel 7 S. Dhawan lbw b Bishoo 84 C. Pujara c K. Brathwaite b Bishoo 16 V. Kohli not out 143 A. Rahane c Da. Bravo b Bishoo 22 R. Ashwin not out 22
Extras: (b-4, lb-2, nb-2) 8 Total: (for 4 wickets, 90 overs) 302 Fall of wickets: 1-14, 2-74, 3-179, 4-236. Bowling: S. Gabriel 13-4-43-1 (nb1), J. Holder 17-4-41-0 (nb-1), C. Brathwaite 15-3-46-0, R. Chase 17-0-54-0, D. Bishoo 27-0-108-3, K. Brathwaite 1-0-4-0.
I’m in better shape than Beijing - Bolt warns rivals
WORLD’S fastest man Usain Bolt has warned competitors that he is in much better shape than last year, as he heads into next month’s Rio Olympic Games. The sprinter’s near perfect legacy in major Games had seemed very much under threat heading into last year’s World Championships, as he arrived in Beijing well short on fitness and race readiness having been hampered by early season injuries. By contrast Bolt’s biggest threat on that occasion was when American Justin Gatlin entered the event in white-hot form on the back of a 28-race win streak. In the end the sprinter only managed to overhaul his American rival in the last few metres. This time around, however, Bolt does
Usain Bolt not expect things to be the same. “This year it’s not going to be the same,” warned Bolt. “I’m in much better shape, so I won’t leave it to the last second. I’m looking forward to going down there and doing
my best and putting on a show for the whole entire world to see.” Bolt will attempt to be the first sprinter in history to claim gold medal in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relays. FRIDAY, JULY 22, 2016