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Criminal probe Page

… ordered into Pradoville 2

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016

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Elegant dancers charm the audience at the Indian Commemoration Trust’s Diwali programme, which was held at the Indian Monument Gardens at the corner of North Road and Church Street. During the event, President David Granger lit the symbolic diya to mark the celebration of the holiday, which will be observed by Hindus today. Also in attendance were Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, several other ministers of the Government, and cultural activists. (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

3 dead in ‘highway’ crash … minibus slams into parked lumber truck

Page

Dead : Bridget Alleyne

Injured : Peter Alleyne

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Criminal probe

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

… ordered into Pradoville Two; 2007 Cricket World Cup spending By Ariana Gordon

GOVERNMENT is in the process of setting up a special prosecution team to prepare reports into the forensic audits completed on the Sparendaam housing project commonly known as ‘Pradoville Two’ and the Guyana Cricket World Cup Inc. Minister of State, Cabinet Secretary Joseph Harmon, disclosed on Friday during a post-Cabinet press briefing that regional and international assistance would be provided in each case. “Cabinet, upon examination of the reports, concluded that in both cases there were indications of criminal culpability that required further investigation. Cabinet agreed that in each case a special prosecutors’ team would be established, and that the Minister of Legal Affairs would submit a report to Cabinet -- within one week -- on the composition of such a team,” he stated. Harmon said the reports are to be handed over to the Guyana Police Force for its

initiation of criminal investigations. “The Special Prosecuting team would not be limited to just local personnel, it (would) have a wider sweep; and we are looking to bring persons who are capable of handling these matters. Yes, we are looking at the region in the first instance as well, and then further afield,” the Minister of State disclosed. He said Guyana has been offered assistance not only from regional counterparts, but from international partners as well; and he believes this has resulted from the need to tackle corruption with the aim of ensuring transparency in government. Asked whether the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) is not responsible for conducting the prosecution in cases such as the Sparendaam Housing Project, Harmon reminded that SOCU is part of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). He said, “These are criminal investigations, and therefore the decision is that it goes to the police and the police decide

whether it is SOCU or the Criminal Investigation Department (that would) deal with (the investigations); but as far as Government is concerned, the matter should be investigated by the criminal investigation elements within the Guyana Police Force.” BELOW MARKET VALUE He disclosed that among the alleged criminalities found are that plots of land were transferred at values that were not reflective of market prices at the time, because the valuations provided were “unusual for the time and location”. And he disclosed that the audit looked at the transfer of a “particular piece of land that is not far from what is now known as Pradoville Two for the price on which it was transferred, and then compared that to the price on which members of the previous administration almost gifted themselves those portions of land.” The audit into the Na-

tional Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) disclosed that some $257 million were spent on the development of the housing project, and the value of land there should have been $82.8 million per acre; but the lands were sold for significantly less, he said. Additionally, the transmission tower belonging to the National Communications Network (NCN) was removed and relocated by the former People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) to facilitate the development of the area. “Instead of accumulating all the costs associated with the Sparendaam Project -- including the market value of the land -- in a special account to be applied in arriving at the price to be charged per house lot, NICIL’s Board and Cabinet were complicit in charging the related costs of $257.049M to NCN in the form of equity investment, and to CH&PA in the form of receivables. “The fact that several key Cabinet members are the beneficiaries of the

house lots renders it highly inappropriate for the very Cabinet to approve of the charging of the expenditure to the accounts of NCN and CH&PA,” the audit report stated. The report, released by the Ministry of Finance, said the use of a “conservative estimate of $985M for the 2009 market valuation of the land on which the Marriott has been constructed prior to infrastructure being undertaken on a similar size land (makes) the total value of the Sparendaam project work out to $1.242B or $82.8M per acre. “This figure should have been used to compute the price per lot. It is not clear: (a) how many lots are involved, and their respective sizes; (b) the basis under which the recipients were selected; (c) how the price of approximately $1.5M per lot was determined; and (d) which entity -- NICIL or CH&PA -- received the proceeds from the sale of the plots”, the audit report disclosed. The State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU) has recommended that Attorney

General Basil Williams put systems in place so that charges of “misconduct in public office” could be laid against former President Bharrat Jagdeo and five ministers of the former administration: Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud; Public Service Minister Dr. Jennifer Westford; Education Minister Priya Manickchand; Labour Minister Dr. Nanda Gopaul; and Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee. This recommendation follows an investigation into the procedures employed prior to the transfer and issuance of prime real estate at Sparendaam, lower East Coast Demerara, to the former government ministers and persons believed to be their friends. Meanwhile, investigations into the operations of the Guyana Cricket World Cup Inc. have found that the local organising committee had engaged in irregularities in meeting expenditures relating to the hosting of the 2007 International Cricket World Cup in Guyana.

‘Do not give them bail’ … PSC wants courts to deny bail to armed, violent robbers

CALLING on Government to review the sentencing policy for persons charged with armed and violent robberies, and to make the offence non-bailable, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) is also requesting that Government remove all taxes from the importation of security cameras in a bid to fight crime. “ We e n c o u r a g e t h e President of Guyana, the Government Ministers and all stakeholders to send a

strong signal to criminals that crime will no longer be tolerated,” PSC Chairman Edward Boyer told a news conference on Friday. “We would like to encourage all stakeholders -- including the Government, police, judiciary and civil society -to review the sentencing of persons charged with armed and violent robberies to ensure that these charges are not subject to bail and that (those charged) are subject to appropriate sentencing, which should be handed

Captain Gerald Gerry Gouveia

down by all magistrates. In this light, we believe a collaborative approach is needed.” Former Chairman of the PSC, Captain Gerald Gouveia, has said the anti-crime police need to be seen on the roadways if they are to be taken seriously. “We want the police presence to be a deterrent to criminals. If they are being deployed, we need to see more of them,” Gouveia said. “The problem with the private sector is that we are scared because we are not seeing

them. This is not the time for (members of) the Police Force to camouflage themselves; we want to see them in our neighbourhoods; we want to see them when we are coming from the international airports; we want the Police Force presence to be a deterrent to criminals,” Gouveia said. He opined that whatever strategy the police are using is not delivering the kind of results that would win the public’s trust, because fear and paranoia are evident around the country.

Gouveia joined the other private sector members in calling for a removal of taxes from all security cameras in a bid to stimulate purchase of the equipment by the ordinary citizens, while those who already have the equipment, he opined, can upgrade the quality. He noted that the camera technologies advance rapidly, and he said citizens should benefit from quality equipment, which can be affordable if there are no taxes attached.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 29, 2016

Send a strong signal - PSC urges President: give orders to bring down crime

THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) has called on President David Granger to intervene in shoring up the state’s response to the escalating crime situation here and also slammed the lack of a proper functioning emergency response telephone system. At a mid-afternoon press conference on Friday, the business umbrella body also called on the government to acknowledge publicly “that we have a problem with crime in Guyana,” noting that it is the only way “we can start to address the issue once all parties can acknowledge that a problem persists and start demanding collaboration across the board.” Only last week former Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Retired Brigadier-General Mark Phillips, said that the incidence of gun-related crime in the country is at its highest, and has ranked the issue as the most pressing matter facing the society. Speaking in a private capacity at a security forum organised by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Phillips said

he is aware of efforts made by Government over the years to improve the security situation of the country while simultaneously addressing crime. He opined that six challenges are likely to drive Guyana’s security priorities, and he listed them as: violent crime, territorial integrity, illicit trafficking of arms and people, transnational organised crimes, terrorism, and cyber security/ cyber crime. “I place at number one violent crime, because notwithstanding the crime statistics that speaks to a reduction in crime, it is my firm belief as a citizen of Guyana that the high incidence of gun-related crimes is today the most pressing problem in the Guyanese society”, Phillips told the gathering of private security firm heads, among other stakeholders.” STRONG SIGNAL The PSC also wants the President, his ministers and all stakeholders to send a strong signal to criminals that crime will no longer be tolerated. “We would like to encourage all stakeholders, including the Government, police, judiciary

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and civil society to review the sentencing of persons charged with armed and violent robberies, to ensure that these charges are not subject to bail and that they are subject to appropriate sentencing which should be handed down by all magistrates. In this light, we believe a collaborative approach is needed,” the organisation proposed.

Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan and the Commissioner of Police (ag) David Ramnarine for the recent reduction in serious crime, “our country, nevertheless, remains unprotected from guns flowing across our borders into the hands of violent criminals virtually without restraint. Our country remains with a Police Force which is inadequately

FAULTY 911 SYSTEM Meanwhile, the PSC railed against the problematic and inoperable 911 system, noting that it is now a national emergency as unreported crimes have escalated. Chairman of the PSC, Edward Boyer, who was joined by members Major-General Norman McLean, Vice-Chairman of the PSC, Desmond Sears, Ramesh

system fixed and functional. “But the commission is appalled that successive governments’ failed to do so.” In fact, the PSC Chairman said the then Ministry of Home Affairs convened a panel of communications specialists to address the problem and a comprehensive report with specific recommendations was submitted to govern-

PSC Chairman Edward Boyer (Centre) flanked by other members of the commission

Additionally, the PSC said it wants to see President Granger who is also Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces publicly give the orders “for our men and women in uniform to bring some order and control with respect to these criminal gangs and individuals terrorising the Guyanese community.” According to the PSC, while it commends Public Security

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staffed, insufficiently trained and underequipped to meet the challenge. Our citizens are traumatised by fear of almost every day having a gun pointed at them with criminal intent. Our businesses, our banks, our tourism industry and our everyday lives are under threat. This is not the good life. It is time that our President intervenes,” PSC declared.

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Dookoo, Kamal Ramnauth and Capt. Gerry Gouveia said the news conference is about national issues and not about the business community’s interest only. Boyer said there is a national concern of every citizen over the inability of the State to generally protect our citizens from widespread, gun-inspired crime threatening their well-being and safety. “We believe that each and every one of our ordinary citizens feels threatened, regardless of where they happen to be, whether in the street, their workplace or in their homes, are under threat each day from violent gun-related crimes,” the PSC chair noted. “We emphasised, however, that the 911 national emergency call system, essential for a citizen under criminal threat to be able to request a police response, is simply not functioning.” Boyer said since 2010 the PSC has held meetings with the police, telephone companies and the political directorate, at the highest possible level, in an effort to have this

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ment. However, to date, these recommendations have not been implemented. “The country, therefore, remains without an essential police emergency response system available to its citizens. Boyer said although there was a reported 16% reduction in serious crime this year compared with last, there are many more unreported crimes that occur daily, adding that criminal access to guns coming into Guyana, mainly from Brazil, has increased. The PSC Chairman said that the Police Force remains understaffed by some 1,000 and more personnel to tackle the rise in criminal activities. Looking at the bright light at the end of the tunnel, Boyer said the PSC is heartened by the fact that government has been able to secure the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP), with funding of just under US$3M, targeting 20 highcrime areas is contributing to the reduction of crime.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Moves afoot to correct CANU deficiencies

GOVERNMENT, through establishment of the National Anti-Narcotics Agency (NANA), is moving to correct deficiencies discovered in the operations of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and identified in a recent Commission of Inquiry into the operations of CANU. According to Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, NANA will soon

be implemented as an umbrella agency under which all agencies in the fight against illicit drugs will operate. He said CANU was found to be deficient in its operations, and its shortcomings are not abnormal, but “can be remedied and should be remedied”. Self-confessed Guyanese convicted drug lord Barry Dataram had made damning allegations against CANU

agents, contending that they are involved in the narco trade. Dataram made this revelation during an interview on HGPTV Channel 67’s Nightly News: “CANU them is the most corrupted, rogue security force in this country.” He also claimed: “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 had conducted a raid on his nephew’s house and removed $13 million, but could account for only $10 million. CANU Head James Singh had rushed to deny the allegations, saying Dataram was trying to distract attention from the proceedings of the

court, and bring the operations of the unit and its members into disrepute. However, the CoI into corruption allegations against CANU made by Dataram had cleared the agency of the allegations. NANA will be the new umbrella body to look after the countrywide anti-narcotics programme. It involves the Guyana Revenue Authority’s Customs and Trade

Administration, the Police Anti-Narcotics Branch and CANU, President David Granger had announced earlier this year. NANA’s head, Major General (retired) Michael Atherly, attends the weekly National Security Committee meetings. A National Drug Strategy Master Plan would be published, President David Granger had said.

Fly Jamaica opens Georgetown office

IN recognition of the demand for ease of access, Guyanese-owned air carrier Fly Jamaica opened its first ticket office on 84 Carmichael Street, Georgetown. With the advent of this Georgetown office, Managing-Director of Fly Jamaica Airways, Roxanne Reece, noted that the air carrier now has two offices in each of its areas of operation, that is, two offices in New York, two offices in Toronto, two offices in Kingston,Jamaica and now two offices in Guyana. The Managing-Director also stated that this office was established in Georgetown to allow patrons to be able to readily access the services provided by the airline. Reece stated that the office at the Eugene F. Correia (Ogle) International Airport will still be operational and accessible, especially to those patrons from the East Coast of Demerara. “We are very pleased today to open this office to offer our customers the comfort of being able to access us more easily,” she stated. Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle, Chief Executive Officer of Fly Jamaica, Paul Reece, noted that the airline is always committed to providing its customers with the best service and the

Members of the Fly Jamaica team, Minister Hughes and a religious leader offer prayers. Eugene F. Correia (Ogle) This Georgetown ofestablishment of the office is International Airport. The fice is the second office a testament to this. office will be opened from Providing patrons with of the air carrier, in ad08:30hrs to 16:30hrs daily, the freedom of having two dition to the office at the from Monday to Saturday. free, checked bags and one Wings Aviation Hangar, (Vishani Ragobeer) carry-on on their flights coupled with their travel destinations to Kingston, Jamaica, New York and Toronto Canada- are all attributes of Fly Jamaica that the CEO noted gives this company an edge above their competitors. He added that the company engages in training for all of its staff to be better equipped to serve customers.

Minister of Public Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes, cuts the ribbon to formally open the Fly Jamaica Georgetown Office.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 29, 2016

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

U.S. abstained from Cuba embargo vote FOR a quarter of a century, some member states of the United Nations (UN), including Guyana, have been voting at that institution to end the United States’ (U.S) trade embargo on Cuba. For 24 of those years, the U.S voted against ending that embargo. Tuesday, the day prior to the vote, U.S Ambassador to the UN, Samantha Power, made known that the U.S would this year abstain from voting, and did so on Wednesday when the resolution came up for adoption. The most trusted ally of the U.S in the Middle East, Israel, also abstained, while 191 of the 193 members of the General Assembly voted in favour of the resolution. This is a historic moment in bettering human relations. In abstaining, the U.S made very clear that it does not support all of Cuba’s policies, and took the pain of expressing dissatisfaction with the human rights’ violations of that country’s government. That being said, the Barack Obama Administration continues to make steps in dismantling hostile relations between the two countries. The political Cold War is over; most of the major forces of that era are no longer alive, or are not in active political leadership; Fidel Castro, widely considered the U.S’ nemesis, is not enjoying the best of health, neither is he in active politics; John F. Kennedy, under whose presidency the U.S Congress passed the embargo, which he signed into law, has been dead for 53 years. Outside of that, there is not much, if any, wisdom to be derived from continuing an isolationist policy with Cuba when citizens of the world are demanding governance that is built on human rights and are increasingly moving towards global trade. Michelle Nichols of Reuters reports (26th October 2016) that Cuba’s Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodriguez, said in September that damage from U.S. sanctions between April 2015 and March 2016 cost Cuba US$4.6 billion, and US$125.9 billion since the embargo’s inception more than 50 years ago. This is trade the U.S could have tapped into; trade that could have redounding to the benefit of both economies and their peoples. And while it requires U.S Congress to lift the embargo, the Republican-controlled House of Representatives and Senate’s resistance -- based on perception that the Obama Administration is giving too much to Cuba without demanding same in return -- exemplifies double-standards and inability to grasp and command significant moments in history. Or are the Republicans so determined in their desire to make the Obama presidency fail that they, too, are failing themselves, their constituents, country and world? In this Information Age, Cubans are not isolated from what is happening in the world, nor are they passively taking things as they come along. Reports of human rights’ violations also make known that there is activism in Cuba to correct these; and that activism can only increase. It is increasingly harder in this era for governments to get away with certain actions.

President David Granger, being assisted by Indian cultural activists and businessman Pradeep Samtani, lights one of the diyas as he ushers in the Hindu Festival of light Friday evening at the Indian Monument Gardens, Georgetown. Also in photo are: Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, Business Magnate Yesu Persaud and other officials (Adrian Narine photo)

Diwali Messages GOV’T: Resolve to love life, Guyana THE Government of Guyana extends Diwali greetings to all Guyanese, in particular our Hindu brothers and sisters. This Festival of Lights has great religious as well as social significance. Diwali signifies the emergence (of man) from the

darkness of ignorance to the light of wisdom. It also symbolises the triumph of good over evil, and hope over negativism and gloom. Today, as we continue to emerge from the clutches of despair and division, we can see flickers of the new light

of hope as we lay the foundation for a clean and green Guyana. Diwali gives us an opportunity to bury our differences and to embrace as one Guyanese fraternity. It is the sincere hope of the Government that Diwali 2016 will serve

to rekindle the fire in our heart for a cohesive society in which all will share in the good life. It must imbue us with a positive resolve to love life, to love Guyana. Shub Diwali!

Desist from playing politics with Diwali - PPP THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends Diwali greetings to all Guyanese -- more particularly, our Hindu brothers and sisters. Diwali, which is known as the Festival of Lights, is symbolic of the triumph of good over evil. This

is indeed a message that resonates with humanity throughout the world, especially where there exist social and economic injustice and the suppression of the fundamental human rights. “The PPP fully embraces the message and symbolism of Diwali, and takes this op-

portunity to assure all Guyanese that the darkness which now pervades this land will be replaced by a more enlightened dispensation; one in which the full creativity and the expressed will of all Guyanese will prevail.” According to the PPP, it is aware of some elements in

our society who are seeking to distort the true meaning and significance of Diwali out of narrow partisan interest, and it calls on them to desist from playing politics with this sacred festival. “Once again Happy Diwali Greetings to one and all”.

The push by Obama to dismantle a policy Guyana has always rejected is smart, because, in establishing relations with Cuba, the U.S can benefit from trade equally as it can better influence change from within Cuba through merchandising. As Congress refuses to act on its claim of human rights’ violations in Cuba, one major U.S trading partner and lender is China, which

has a communist government that also is accused of human rights’ violations. Chinese billionaire Cho Tak Wong, chairman of the Fuyao Group, China’s biggest maker of automotive glass, is presently operating an automotive factory in Moraine, Ohio, which the company bought and has since employed thousands of Americans there. There are still ways to go in normalizing the relation-

ship between Cuba and the U.S. Every step in realising this relationship is improving human relations and is testimony to mankind’s ability to be respectful of each other and be able to resolve differences in a civil manner. Where the UN remains the world’s most powerful governmental body, member states will, no doubt, bring their influence to bear in improving relations with-

in Cuba based on UN declarations, and applying other forms of diplomacy: social, economic, political and cultural. The quest for dignity and equality must never cease, until every every man, woman and child enjoys these fundamental human rights; and to this end, the Obama Administration is on the right side of history in delivering leadership to the world.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 29, 2016

Diwali Messages

Dharmic Sabha cannot produce a single document justifying Diwali on Sunday Dear Editor,

PLEASE permit me to comment on Peeping Tom’s “The division within the Hindu community” (K.N. Oct. 28). Peeping Tom says, “The main Hindu Organisation in Guyana says Diwali should be celebrated on a particular day.” But this main Hindu Organisation is the only organisation within the western hemisphere (which shares the same time zone as Guyana) that is celebrating on the 30th; all countries within Guyana time zone: USA, Canada Trinidad, etc, are celebrating on the 29th.

Moreover, all Panchangas (Astrological Tables) have Diwali for the 29th. Dharmic Sabha cannot produce a single document to justify its case. Should Guyana celebrate with Dharmic Sabha on the 30th, it would isolate Guyana from the rest of the western world, being the only country to celebrate on the 30th. Peeping Tom asks: “How is it, under the PPPC there was never such a division? Why now?” During the ‘life’ of Pt. Reepu Daman Persaud, the dates were correctly computed; the controversy started after his death. Those presently respon-

sible for the calendar are using questionable methods. Dharmic Sabha presently does not have the intellectual capacity in this field; its president and executive, for example, are not pandits. Peeping Tom says, “The Government is clearly leaning towards the opinions of certain Hindu leaders, however miniscule their support base.” This is not the case. These “certain Hindu leaders” are qualified pandits who are fully supported in their contention by the Panchangas. I, for instance, was the sole lecturer at the Dharmic Sabha’s Pandits’

Use Diwali to help lift Guyana out of darkness into light - PNCR THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) extends greetings, best wishes and divine blessings to all Guyanese, especially members of the Hindu Community, on the national holiday “Deepavali”. This religious festival is unique in its spiritual context and the significance which it holds for our nation.

The party said in a release: “As the rows of diyas are lit, it is time to focus on changing the lives of all Guyanese for the better. Falling standards and moral decay must be arrested in order to bring our nation to a level acceptable to the world… “On this occasion, it is hoped that the lit diyas will

usher in light, love, unity, prosperity and happiness to all Guyanese, especially the underprivileged. Let Deepavali this year be a time of deep reflection and the making of a solemn resolve to bring our nation out of the darkness into the light. “A joyous and happy Deepavali to all Guyanese.”

Let the spirit of Deepavali reinforce self-sacrifice - Viraat Sabhaa THE deep significance of Deepavali has the capacity to inspire evolution into self-consciousness, the Viraat Sabhaa has said in its Diwali message. According to the organization, this occasion demands the rekindling of divinity with the fuel of higher intelligence. “The shining Purush which permeates the entire being of man should never be ignored, but should be used as a tool for self-exploration; which is the true purpose of our existence. Like other religious festivals, Deepavali has a universal appeal i.e. to influence self- sacrifice, which opens the gateway to Peace and Bliss. “Cosmetic exhibition destroys the sanctity and undermines the sacredness and

true relevance of the festival. While there is a social side to the occasion, it must not be allowed to derail its spiritual values.” According to the Sabha, “Lord Raama was never intimidated by the political fantasies of Ayodhya. He structured his life by only embracing the principles founded on the basis of truth. It was his steadfastness to Dharma which convinced and influenced the minds of his subjects to initiate pathways of light to establish his return.” The Virat Sabha said Deepavali is synonymous with light. “Most appropriately at this time, Maha Laxhmi, the Goddess of Light, is being revered with unflinching devotion. Maha Laxhmi could only be experienced through spiritual commitment, not

social engagements. Today, therefore, is the occasion for total submission and reflection to the feet of the Devi. The Puraanas clearly state that those who exhibit uninterrupted devotion to the feet of the Goddess during the period of Amawasya would become the embodiment of brilliance, illumination, radiance and prosperity. “On this special occasion, spiritually activities should be exercised to welcome the Goddess. The tradition and culture demands a peaceful environment, which is conducive for the full consecration of the Goddess. “The Viraat Sabhaa (Guyana) encourages all to observe fasting, do pujas and attend your respective mandirs and other places of worship.”

Training Programme for the period 2005-2012. Let it be mentioned that no pandit of the Dharmic Sabha has ever lectured at that programme for the past 15 years. Presently, there is no class for want of teachers. Make what you want of it. Peeping Tom says, “The Government is being disingenuous, and perhaps naughty, in ignoring the submission of the major Hindu Organization in Guyana.” Not because the Dharmic Sabha is the major Hindu organization in Guyana should their submission be accepted. All evidence and proofs

of correctness must be taken into consideration. Peeping Tom can verify from friends and relatives in Trinidad, Canada and USA when they are celebrating. Or better still: I can, right now, give him copies of seven Panchangas that have the 29th. P e e p i n g To m s a y s , “The AFC is alienating the very supporters which it needs….” The AFC is doing nothing of the kind. The supporters of Dharmic Sabha are fiercely loyal to Dharmic Sabha and a certain political party, so much so that if told to celebrate Diwali on De-

cember 25, they would do it. AFC doesn’t have a chance. Peeping Tom ends with, “One possible explanation could be that it is the major Hindu organisation that is the source of the problem?” Space will not permit me to comment fully on this. But suffice it to say that all efforts at compromise with this major Hindu organisation have failed, even in the face of incontrovertible evidence. Peeping Tom is totally out of sync with this issue. Regards, Pt. R. Balbadar

IAC rails against alcoholism The Indian Action Committee (IAC) wishes all Guyanese a happy and prosperous Diwali, May the Goddess of light brighten your every path of life. Join us on this auspicious eye opening journey to extinguish the darkness of various social injustices, such as crime, discrimination, victimisation, marginalisation, spousal abuse, child abuse, alcoholism, substance abuse and suicide, all of which are causing much evil to befall the population.Let your inner light prevail by removing all forms of darkness (ignorance) from your life.Shubh Diwali!

Culture Department celebrates Diwali THE Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport on Friday celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights at its Main Street, Georgetown location. “Diwali is a time for gathering with family and friends, often marked with good food and dancing. It is a

tradition which has been supported by students and representatives of the Cove and John Ashram. Minister Henry said the Festival of Lights serves as reminder of the need for persons to commit to helping those in need. “I am indeed humbled to be associated with a fes-

Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, assists a representative of the Cove and John Ashram with the lighting of a diya at the Ministry of Education, Main Street office

time for celebration, but also a time for prayer and reflection; a time when we must remember that there are always others who are less fortunate than ourselves,” said Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry. The observance of Diwali at the ministry is an annual

tival that goes back over thousands of years. I am also proud that our country is blessed with so much diversity and richness of culture and tradition,” she said. In all of the three major religions of this country – Christianity, Islam and Hinduism – “we dedicate times

of the year to the renewal of our lives and faith… we seek to reflect on what has gone before and to reconnect with the light which lies within us,” Henry said in a statement. The minister also noted that there has been much religious tolerance in Guyana over the years, and this augurs well for social protection. “My hope for this Diwali celebration is that there be reconciliation where there may have been division; that there be rejection of violence; and that together we may appreciate and enjoy each other’s festivals as a common sign to the world and of our commitment as Guyanese to mutual goodwill and faith in each other,” Minister Henry emphasised. She expressed hope that “Diwali be as bright as ever, bring joy, health and wealth to you; may the festival of lights brighten your life and those near and dear to you; may this Diwali bring you utmost peace; may light triumph over darkness and lead us together in the path of peace and social harmony.”

3 dead in Linden Highway crash

A ROUTE 72 minibus from Mahdia, Region 8, crashed into a parked logging truck in the vicinity of Moblissa on the Linden/Soesdyke Highway in Region 10, on Friday night; and businesswoman Bridget Alleyne died on the spot, according to an eyewitness account. Her husband, Peter, pop-

ularly known as “Brother Peter”, survived the accident. He was driving the bus at the time. Two other males, said to be Rastafarians whose identities were not confirmed up to press time, died while seeking medical attention at the Linden Hospital Complex; and a fourth passenger was said

to be in critical but stable condition. According to an eyewitness, the bus was heading to Georgetown from Mahdia sometime after dusk, and was in the vicinity of the Moblissa Bridge when it collided with the rear of the truck which was packed with logs, even though the driver attempted to swerve

from the truck. Reports suggest that no reflectors or lights were visible on the truck. The minibus was damaged beyond repair, and rescuers were forced to cut open the mangled vehicle in order to free the injured. Police in the mining town are investigating the accident.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

What remains of the minibus following the deadly accident on Friday

U.S.$15,000 feasibility study for UG Business School -report likely to be submitted by February 2017

By Ravin Singh POSITIVE indications for the University of Guyana (UG) to establish a school of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation have been received from stakeholders, as a U.S.$15,000 feasibility study into this venture is ongoing. This was according to Chairman of the feasibility study team, Dr. Edward Davis, during a media briefing on Friday at Duke Lodge, Kingston. Dr. Davis, who heads the team of experts, said that they have been able to engage stakeholders both in the private and public sectors on the need for such a school, which he said will not only benefit Guyana, but the region as a whole. And based on preliminary findings, the Chair said that “based on what we’ve seen so far, not only is it feasible, but that we should have started it yesterday.” Asked when the report is likely to be completed, Dr. Davis said February 2017, after which it will be hand-

ed over to the university’s Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Ivelaw Griffith. According to a preliminary statement by the team, a School of Entrepreneurship and Business In-

Chairman of the feasibility study team, Dr. Edward Davis novation (SEBI) will provide students with a unique opportunity to network and develop relationships that enhance their prospects for success. The school, if established, will seek to emphasise the ability to think entrepreneurially; the development of strong, critical thinking skills; leadership; ethics and values; social responsibility; and decision-making that looks at “the numbers,” but also looks beyond “the numbers.” In terms of accreditation,

the VC said that one of 10 things which he requested of the team was to advise the institution on how it would be able to receive international accreditation. “I’ve asked the team to do 10 things and one of those things is to tell us what we need to do to get international accreditation. Not all the programmes at UG has accreditation. So part of what I’m asking the team to do is to help us build a school that will be accredited internationally,” he said. However, while this accreditation will be critical to the school’s existence, Professor Griffith said that it could take between three to five years for this to be achieved. And apart from accreditation, he said that the team is examining things in a wider scope of being able to provide students with the opportunity to network internationally through clubs and exchange programmes. He noted too that in the context of Guyana, funds must be raised for the institution to attract the quality of lecturers found in universities in more developed countries. The VC also stated that while the venture will cost UG about U.S.$15,000 (or GYD$3M), it is a necessary investment. “If you want to [have a] meaningful return in invest-

ment, you have to first invest,” he said. And with the team heavily packed with U.S.-based experts, the VC was asked if there could have been greater involvement of regional experts, given the possibility of varying business dynamics in the region and the U.S. However, he pointed out that the team comprises individuals who are connected to the region and beyond. He referenced Dr. Davis, a Dean of the Business School at Clark Atlanta University, who served as an external examiner for decades at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Jamaica and Trinidad branches. Another individual, Dr. David Lewis, who is a member of the team spent years at UWI also and has experience in Africa. Dr. Lewis currently serves at the Vice-President of Manchester Trade International Business Advisors. The VC said that what could be achieved is needed connectivity, whereby sponsorships for exchange programmes or scholarships could be provided for by individuals and organisations who play some role in the establishment of the school. “It is not only about where these individuals are from, but where they are connected to,” Professor Griffith said.

Woman with cocaine strapped to body remanded

A Thirty one year old, unemployed South Ruimveldt Gardens resident was Friday morning remanded to prison until December 14, 2016, after being nabbed with six hundred and sixty eight (668) grams of cocaine yesterday at the No. 78 Foreshore, Corriverton, Berbice. Guyana Chronicle understands that Senimelia Alizzia Lewis, of 84 Sugar Cane Street, South Ruimveldt Gardens, was an outgoing passenger en route to Suriname, when she was observed acting

in a suspicious manner by both police and Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Enforcement Officers. Lewis was subjected to a search which resulted in the discovery of the illegal substance strapped to her body. She was arrested and charged with being in possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking and appeared before Magistrate Singh at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court. The South Ruimveldt resident pleaded not guilty to the charge.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

PM receives report of probe into corruption claims at GNBA

THE report of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the allegations of corruption and misconduct made by Kenwin Charles against two directors of the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) was on Friday handed over to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo by Major General (ret’d) Joseph Singh, who was tasked with conducting the inquiry. Singh said that all persons interviewed over the last few weeks were cooperative. He told Guyana Chronicle that he assessed the information based on the terms of reference (ToR) put to him, and made the appropriate recommendations based on the information before him. “I followed the normal protocols of assembling the information (and) assessing (same) based on my reading of the information: who were the key persons needed to be interviewed and have their statements recorded,” Singh said. He said information was forthcoming from the twelve interviewees, and he noted that all of the directors of the GNBA, along with senior and technical staff, were interviewed. “I believe we cast our net and got responses,” he told Guyana Chronicle. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, in accepting the bulky report, thanked Singh

for producing the report in a timely manner. He described the CoI as necessary because of the “serious allegations”

because very serious allegations have been made that would impact on, and affect the integrity of, certain per-

sector, said wherever such allegations are made, investigations ought to be conducted to ascertain the facts. He

the integrity of those officers is at stake. “I look forward to reading this report,” he said. Major-General Singh had

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo receiving the CoI report from Major General (ret’d) Joseph Singh on Friday at the Office of the Prime Minister. Also in photo (right) is Legal Advisor from the Ministry of the Presidency, Geeta Chandan-Edmond levelled against the members of the GNBA, and said, “I consider that the investigation had become necessary

sons in public life and their standing in the communities.” The Prime Minister, who has oversight of the broadcast

said, too, that allegations of corruption against those who hold statutory offices must be examined with urgency, as

worked closely with the Legal Advisor from the Ministry of the Presidency, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, to ensure

all aspects of the ToR were satisfied. Essequibo cable broadcaster Kenwin Charles, of Northwest TV Inc., has claimed that GNBA Directors Anthony Vieira and Vic Insanally had tried to improperly force him to stop doing business on the Essequibo Coast, former GNBA Chairman Leonard Craig had stated in a press release. The charge, denied by both Vieira and Insanally, resulted in Vieira -- the former owner of VCT Channel 28 -- accusing Charles of trying to discredit him. Vieira told another section of the media that he and Insanally had only explained to Charles that his service was illegal and that he should stop transmitting and apply to have it regularised. “He is totally misrepresenting this matter, and will have to stop it or I am going to take him to court. That man has to come off the air…he is violating the law. He does not have a licence, and is operating on 600MHZ UHF not even MMDS (Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service) you know. It deprives those who want a frequency and interrupts other services,” Vieira told Stabroek News. “We want to sell those frequencies as franchises… and he does not have a licence, so he has to first get regularised…,” Vieira explained.

Brazilian company calls it quits

FOLLOWING Thursday’s brouhaha at Sheriff Street, the Brazilian-owned Amazonia Swimming Pool Company is leaving Guyana. The company noted on Friday, that the move follows the removal of four swimming pools by the Georgetown Mayor and City Council on Thursday. The pools were valued at $14M the company said. King told the Guyana Chronicle on Thursday that the placing of the pools by a businessman at the location not only presents a bad picture of the city, but is illegal and is a haven for the breeding of mosquitoes. The town clerk said efforts were made repeatedly by the City Council to speak with the businessman, but all proved futile. According to Company Director Ibrahim Mustapha, the entity will sell the remaining pools and return to Brazil. The company described the action by the city authorities as deceitful and fraudulent. The company’s director noted that it has invested heavily in Guyana. “We would sell one or two pools every

six months; however, the pools have great potential. Many persons have indicated their interest, but the economy is dead,” Mustapha said. He said he kept the business opened, hoping that things would get better as he sees Guyana has great potential in the future. Mustapha said that the company lowered the cost of the pools by half, which means their profit margin is small. “To have suffered a loss of this capacity, we will be placed in tremendous debts,” Mustapha said. The company refuted reports from City Hall that it failed to contact the M&CC on the matter. The town clerk expressed the belief that the company could undertake illegal activities because the City Council is not well equipped. “Where we don’t have the equipment, we will cut these things up, and move them in manageable sizes. We can’t continue like this!” King said. He maintained that such activities cannot occur in other cities of the world.

–– after swimming pool brouhaha on Thursday

City Hall employees on Thursday pooled their strength to remove the swimming pools from the City Council’s reserve in front of at least two lots at Ixora Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

259 get $50,000 for home improvements

THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) on Friday commenced payout of the Jubilee Year Home Improvement Subsidy, with 259 homeowners each receiving vouchers worth $50,000. These 259 recipients represent the total persons that were deemed eligible for the subsidy of the total 494 applications that were sent in to the CH&PA. Eligibility for the recipients was decided based on income, status of payment for the house lots, occupancy of the house lots, and the type of works that needed or were intended to be done. A total of $15 million had been budgeted for the project, which was intended to target some 300 awardees after the CHPA had issued 732 application forms, free of cost, all across Guyana. The 300 awardees catered for were reportedly to be selected by a lottery system. However, with only 259

households deemed eligible, all applicants were automatic recipients. The Jubilee Year Home Improvement Subsidy is a sequel to the Home Improvement Subsidy Pilot project that concluded last year. The vouchers, distributed at a presentation ceremony at the Authority’s head office in Brickdam, Georgetown, are expected to be used by recipient families to purchase hardware items to improve their homes. The vouchers are redeemable at prequalified suppliers in all the regions except Region Eight. Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Adams-Patterson, has said this initiative is part of the Government’s efforts to raise the affordability of housing in Guyana. According to Patterson, there is no better time than the present to start looking at adequate

A section of the gathering at Friday’s presentation ceremony

and affordable housing, particularly because of the hazard that inadequate housing presents. “With thousands of Guyanese families living in substandard housing, the need for decent, adequate, affordable shelter has never been more urgent,” Patterson said; adding, “The lack of affordable housing significantly impacts families the world over, and Guyana is not immune to this (impact). Substandard housing is a major public health issue; there is a direct link between poor quality housing and ill health. The way to eradicate this is to provide adequate, affordable housing.” T h e p r o j e c t t a rg e t s households in housing schemes and regularised squatter settlements in all of the regions with the exception of Region Eight. The minister happily pointed out that the largest number of recipients –- 109 -- came from

From left to right at head table: Personal Assistant to the Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Remington Nelson; CHPA Board Member Bert Carter, and Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Adams-Patterson (Adrian Narine photo)

Region Three. Persons had sent in applications to the CHPA after the initiative had been advertised in the daily newspapers and by various regional democratic councils,

municipal councils, and neighbourhood democratic councils. The application period began on June 20th and ended on July 31, 2016. CH&PA Board Mem-

ber Bert Carter spoke at the presentation on behalf of Board Chairman Hamilton Green, who could not be at the ceremony on account of his having to attend Parliament.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Duncan’s fate decided … but court order blocking release of tribunal’s report

THE fate of Mr. Carvil Duncan, Chairman of the Public Service Commission, has been decided. A tribunal that was set up to investigate whether he should be removed from office because of his conduct has completed it work, but is being prevented from releasing the report due to a court order. Minister of State, Cabinet Secretary Joseph Harmon, told reporters at his post-Cabinet news briefing on Friday that information available to Cabinet is that the tribunal has completed its work. He explained that when the order of the court was issued to the tribunal, hearings had been completed.

“We are a law-abiding government, and the requirement is that the tribunal (should) hand over its recommendations to

Carvil Duncan the President. As a government, since there is an order of court, we respect the order of court,” Minister Harmon explained. Noting that, in the interim, attorneys representing the state have been instructed to move to the courts to have the order vacated so that the work of the Commission can be concluded, Harmon disclosed that the return day to the High Court is October 31. “The work is not concluded until the tribunal hands over its report to the President, and that is the stage I believe we are at. Once there is an order of court which I believe in any way touches or concerns the matter, we’d respect the order of the court and wait,” Harmon explained. President David Granger appointed the tribunal to determine whether Duncan should be removed from his post as head of the Public Service Commission and as a member of several other constitutional bodies, following fraud charges being brought against Duncan. Duncan subsequently secured an Order of Rule Nisi from the High Court to halt the works of the tribunal while the magistrates’ court determines whether there is enough evidence for the case to go to trial. Government is preparing to submit its response to the Order. “The return date on that order is the 31st of October, and therefore the attorneys who represent the state will be given sufficient instructions to move

to the court to have that order vacated,” Harmon said. Harmon noted that the tribunal has completed its investigations, and would present its recommendations to the President when the court matter is resolved. “The work is not concluded until the tribunal hands over its report to the President, and that is the stage where I believe we are at,” Harmon told the press. President David Granger had, in September, appointed three members to the tribunal: Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire, Justice (ret’d) Winston Patterson, and Attorney-at-Law Robert Ramcharran, to inquire, investigate, and recommend whether Carvil Duncan, Chairman and appointed member of the Public Service Commission, should be removed from office. In addition to being charged with fraud, Duncan has not been executing his functions effectively. He is currently before the court on fraud charges after auditors discovered that he had paid himself approximately $1M., and allegedly conspired with Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) of the Guyana Power and Light, Aeshwar Deonarine, to transfer an unapproved sum of approximately $27M into Deonarine’s personal account. The President, in October, suspended the Chairman of the PSC with immediate effect, pending the outcome of the proceedings of the tribunal, headed by Justice George. On the same day the President suspended Duncan, Duncan’s Attorney, Anil Nandlall, moved to the High Court to challenge the legality of the tribunal appointed to determine whether Duncan should be removed from office, given that he was charged with fraud. Justice Franklin Holder last week ordered that the work of the tribunal be suspended, thereby preventing its three members from reporting to President Granger on whether Duncan ought to be removed from office due to the criminal charges he faces. The Tribunal was expected to submit a report to the President on or before October 31.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

CDB engages regional water and waste-management specialists

THE Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) recently partnered with the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA), to host the largest gathering of water and waste-management specialists from across the Caribbean at the CWWA 2016 Conference and Exhibition. “Clean water is one of the key pillars of human development and its importance cannot be overstated. The use and management of water impacts all of today’s leading global challenges, including: energy generation and usage; food security; natural disaster management; and the management of the environment. CDB therefore, has a vested interest in the well-being of the water and sanitation sector, because it is key to us achieving our development mandate,” said L. O’Reilly Lewis, Portfolio Manager, CDB, during the opening ceremony for the CWWA Conference. According to a release by the Bank, the forum for Water Ministers in the Caribbean included presentations from CDB representatives and also engaged with conference attendees at its booth in the exhibition hall. The high-level forum is a key mechanism for water-sector-related policy dialogue, bringing together government ministers and senior officials from across the Caribbean, as well as development partners and key stakeholders.

“CDB was instrumental in the establishment of HLF, playing an integral role in the planning and financing of the first forum in 2005 in Barbados…There is a commonality of challenges facing Caribbean countries and recognition of the fact that the sharing of experiences, expertise and knowledge—including best practices--is key in promoting more strategic approaches at the regional and national levels,” said Daniel Best, Director of Projects at the CDB. Topics covered included economic drivers that must be considered in investments in the water and wastewater sector in the Caribbean, promoting the regional water agenda linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (Goal 6) and SAMOA in the context of climate change and disaster reduction and case studies, focusing on drought conditions in Jamaica and the impact of Tropical Storm Erika on the water sector in Dominica. The CDB also participated in a panel discussion on how countries can access concessional funding, specifically through the Adaptation Fund, and the Green Climate Fund, which recently accredited the Bank as a partner institution. “This important policy dialogue on climate financing for the water sector is central to the Bank’s Strategy…This forum provides the Bank with a timely opportunity to build awareness of its role

as an accredited body to facilitate access to concessional financing from the Adaptation Fund, and the Green Climate Fund, for much needed water infrastructure investments in the Caribbean,” said Best. The CWWA Conference took place from October 25-27, at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Trinidad and Tobago. This is the 25th year that the conference is being held.

Sophia man gunned down –– friend injured

AN altercation that occurred two weeks ago on Thursday night has resulted in the shooting death of a ‘B’ Field Sophia resident and the injuring of another. Dead is 23-year-old

Kevin Inniss called “Old Dawg” of ‘B’ Field Sophia, Georgetown. Inniss was shot four times about the body and was pronounced dead at

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

the Georgetown Public Hospital. Hospitalised is Shane Carter, 22, also of Sophia. He was shot thrice in the leg. Police said an invesThe house where the shooting occurred tigation has revealed that the shooting occurred about 21:00hrs Thursday night. The victims, Kevin Inniss and Shane Carter, both of Ramsingh Street, ‘B’ Field, Sophia, were conversing in company with several others at the time. Suddenly, a dark-coloured motor car with registration number unknown drove up and three armed, masked men approached and began discharging their firearms, hitting Inniss and Carter. After committing the act, the gunmen re-entered the vehicle which sped away in a western direction. Investigators have retrieved 10 .32 spent shells and 13 warheads fragmentation at the scene. No arrests have been made as yet. Other reports have revealed that Inniss, who is a part-time mechanic and also works as a mason, was hanging out at a friend when a Toyota Spacio car drove pass and opened fire on him and several friends who were in the yard at the time. Inniss was at the time sitting in a chair when he was shot. Many scaled the fence and lay on the floor to escape the gunfire. Several bullet holes were left on the house, roof and fence. One of the dead man’s friends noted that on many occasions over two jeep loads of policemen would visit the house to inquire about marijuana sales, but, when the shooting happened, only one vehicle with two policemen visited. In trying to explain

a motive to the murder, the man said two weeks ago “the man that did the shooting was driving his Spacio talking to a girl and he pass and

Dead: Kevin Inniss jam ‘Old Dawg’ and they had an argument and his windscreen end up getting damage; and from since then the man passing here every day for the last two weeks looking for him.” He said the driver passed the house on the first occasion Thursday night and after seeing Inniss, decided to turn around his vehicle, returning to the house where gunshots blazed. “I just want to know if a man go at the police station and tell the police he going and kill somebody what is the police supposed to do,” one of the dead man’s friends questioned. “The police was supposed to arrest that man right there and then before anything happened, they allowed the man to do what he wanted,” he said. One resident said when she heard the gunshots, she thought they were firecrackers but later learned that someone had been killed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Procurement Commission finally -- members sworn in; President urges fairness and transparency

By Ariana Gordon THE five members of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) were on Friday sworn into office by President David Granger amid a charge to be “fair, equitable and transparent” in carrying out their functions. At a simple ceremony held at the Ministry of the Presidency (MoTP), the President made it clear that the holders of the Constitutional Office must be “faithful to the oath” of office. “I charge you to uphold the constitutional duty of the Commission, in being independent, impartial and fair,” he told Emily Dodson, Carol Corbin, Sukrishnalall Pasha, Ivor Burnette English and former Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul. “The Government of Guyana iterates its commitment to the principles of accountability and transparency in the conduct of public business. The establishment of the Commission evinces the importance of ensuring equity and fairness in public procurement,” said President Granger. Article 212W of the Constitution of Guyana speaks to the establishment of the PPC aimed at monitoring public procurement and the procedure in order to ensure that the procurement of goods, services and execution of works are conducted in a fair, equitable, transparent competitive and cost-effective manner, according to the law and policy guidelines, as determined by the National Assembly. The Commission is an independent body which must consist of five members who are experienced and have the expertise in procurement, legal, financial and administrative matters. The aforesaid members were appointed by President Granger following nominations made by the Public Accounts Committee and approved by at least two-thirds of the elected members of the National Assembly. Meanwhile, Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, was elated by the appointment of the Commissioners and said he is proud that the Commission has been enacted during the first quarter of the APNU+AFC coalition Government’s tenure. He said the PPC has been

more operational, well-oiled political machinery and administrative machinery for all these units, but sometimes we see them not operating in accordance with some of our desires and we have a lot of desires,” he said, noting that challenges will always exist.

PPC: Carol Corbin, Sukrishnalall Pasha, President David Granger, Ivor Burnette English, former Labour Minister Dr. Nanda Kishore Gopaul, and Emily Dodson at the Ministry of the Presidency after the swearing-in ceremony inactive for more than a de- as well. “They have to be very cade and the Government is He explained that the much collaborative…If they happy to fulfil its campaign Committee will fulfil its have difficulties they can promise. mandate, but the PPC will always go back to the PAC “This is one of our big- be the superior body. to seek guidance, and if gest lobbying points, to get “… the PPC, that will there is need for changes in proper accountability in this have the overarching re- regulations, they come back country and I am so proud sponsibility,” the Public to Parliament,” he added. that it has happened in the Security Minister told reSpeaking to the apparfirst half of our term after porters. He said too that ent slothfulness of some of waiting for more than a de- the PPC will have to build the constitutional agencies, cade,” he said. a relationship with the Na- Minister Ramjattan said Given the establishment tional Tender Board, so as to “with democracy comes of the PPC, Cabinet no lon- acquaint itself with the rules bureaucracy.” ger has a role to play in the and regulations governing “I would like to think awarding of public contracts. the entities. we are going to have things “I am also happy now that the decisions in relation to contracts will have to be made by this body rather than Cabinet, because contract-awarding in my view is an occupational hazard for a minister and the members here now to get that opportunity to make their selections, choices as to who should be awarded.” Ramjattan noted that there are some likely challenges, but said that the members of the PPC are experienced persons who through training will handle their mandate well. BIG PLUS “It will be a big, big plus for governance in this country and of course it is in keeping with the Constitution. The Cabinet’s role will fade away and it will now be the task of the Procurement Commission,” the minister added. Asked to explain the relationship between the Bid Protest Committee and the PPC, Ramjattan said the Bid Protest Committee will fade

NO ‘YES MEN’ Disagreements, he said, must be welcomed and noted that when members of boards are appointed, they were not intended to be “yes men.” “We wanted people who know the industry and we put them in there and just like the words of the oath, to faithfully and independently as possible do what you think is right. “We will have dissenting views …you can’t have one ideal situation and it is in that chaotic scenario your best decisions will come out.” Meanwhile, former Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Kishore Gopaul, in an invited comment said that he is happy with the confidence reposed in him and the other members of the Commission by both Parliament and the Government. Dr Gopaul said the Commission will work to ensure that its integrity and the interests of citizens are priority. “I would do my utmost to ensure that the integrity

is upheld and we are happy that the democratic system has worked. We are happy that the Parliament has put confidence in us, the members of the PPC and that the President has put the necessary systems in place to have the Commission established. We will work to ensure that the interests of the Guyanese people and the country as a whole are protected,” he said. The Chairman of the Commission is to be selected by the five appointees during their first meeting. The PPC serves to monitor and review all public procurement systems to ensure they are in accordance with the law, promote awareness of the rules, procedures and special requirements of the procurement process among suppliers, constructors and public bodies, safeguard the national interest in public procurement matters, monitor performance of procurement bodies, approve procedures for public procurement, disseminate rules and procedures for public procurement, monitor and review all legislation and policies, investigate complaints from suppliers, contractors and public entities, investigate irregularities and mismanagement, liaise and refer matters to the police and the Auditor General.

PPC: Newly-appointed members of the Public Procurement Commission stand with members of the Public Accounts Committee just after the swearing-in ceremony on Friday morning. (L-R)Jermaine Figueira (MP); Minister of Housing, Valarie Patterson; Sukrishnalall Pasha; Emily Dodson; Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Irfaan Ali; Ivor Burnette English; Dr. Nanda Kishore Gopaul; Mrs. Carol Corbin; Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence; and Charrandas Persaud, MP

Securing our borders

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

…Guyana seeks U.S. help for airplane surveillance, drones By Shauna Jemmott THE United States has committed to helping Guyana bolster security at its borders with possible airplane surveillance and drones, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan has said. This, he said, is necessary as this South American country grapples with the trafficking of small arms and drugs from neighbouring Brazil. Ramjattan told a news conference on Friday held at its party’s headquartersAlliance For Change that at the just concluded Caribbean-United States (U.S.) Security Cooperation dialogue held at the Washington State

Department in Washington DC, he presented Guyana’s ‘border security’ issues as a major concern, especially with the high prevalence of drug and gun-related crimes at the southern side of the border near Brazil. He said as a result of his submission during the dialogue, the U.S. government made a commitment to strengthen collaboration with this country to combat gun-running and the drug trade through the possible installation of high-profile technological equipment, and professional preparation of those employed in the security and judicial sectors. “I did identify ‘border control,’ because more and more the evidence is that

from Brazil we are having more small arms– Taurus pistols coming in… we also have some eyes in the Brazillian territory…it needs more surveillance, but the surveillance there would be expensive because that more or less will have to be probably airplanes,” Ramjattan stated. The minister said he asked the U.S. State Department for help through providing airplane surveillance or drones that could go 100 miles and back with its location being at a sub-command centre likely to be installed at Lethem. The U.S. also suggested some other equipment they can utilise through satellite imagery. “… but these are expensive

things. But in the exercise of trying to stop drugs and trying to stop firearms entering Guyana, if all of that is what we would require they have made a commitment that yes, there will be assistance in that regard.” The minister’s visit was part of a forum on the CBSI. The meeting of government representatives from Caribbean and the USA, resulted in a collaborative commitment of all participating countries to substantially reduce illicit trafficking, advancing public safety and security, and promoting social justice to improve the lives of citizens, Ramjattan said. However, he said he was particularly pleased with the promise by the U.S. to help secure Guyana’s southern border with Brazil with the installation of necessary high-profile equipment that can capture and record criminal activity from that end. Ramjattan said this move has come at a time when it has been recognised that the gun and drug trades are prevalent at the Guyana-Brazil border. “…The Colombians and Venezuelans and those who are involved with the narcotics trade from Brazil and other Latin American countries, they’re now using Guyana as a condo, and they have been doing so for some time,” Minister Ramjattan said. He backed up his statement by pointing to the several strange airplanes that have been discovered in various areas in Guyana’s hinterland, adding that government has

received information that there had been many other planes used in the international drug trade between Guyana, Europe and North America. “And now we know they do drop-offs and then it is brought to Georgetown, put in containers, and that is how Guyanese containers with rice and a whole lot of things are being caught in other countries with the cocaine.” He said Guyana has been applauded by the U.S. government for doing a “tremendously good job” in its recent efforts to destroy the drug trade, with the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Narcotics Unit intercepting several persons attempting to traffic drugs. BARRY DATARAM Meanwhile, Ramjattan said too that there has been greater collaboration with neighbouring states, citing the recent case with the Surinamese government arresting drug lord Barry Dataram. According to a joint action statement by the Caribbean-United States Security cooperation dialogue, the countries plan to substantially reduce illicit trafficking by “developing a common regional maritime and airspace strategy as well as standard operating procedures, maintaining maritime operations, assets and equipment in order to establish a regional patrolling approach, and developing a sustainable and complementary sub-regional and regional defence and security maritime training capacity harmonising security measures in the Caribbean

through the use of existing facilities. Another aspect of collaboration is the advancing of public safety and security through programmes ranging from professionalising the law-enforcement institutions, technical assistance in training, improving the rule of law and support for the justice sector. Ramjattan said a number of professionals within the public security system have been selected for training in the USA. Several policemen will soon travel to Las Vegas, Nevada, for training in ‘bicycle brigade’ which will be effective in curbing lower levels of crime, particularly in Regent Street and other commercial areas in Georgetown. “We need more patrols, but it is expensive to have four by four. Good strong looking Guyanese girls and boys on bicycles [who] are really equipped to their training, doing their jobs. That is going to be one of the aspects that we are training,” Ramjattan told the press. Other areas of training include crime scene investigation, testifying in the trial, and undergoing heavy cross-examination. Another 180 persons have gone on ‘high tech’ training ever since he assumed office as minister, and that will continue under the Caribbean Basin Initiative, Ramjattan said. The promotion of social justice through ‘justice sector reform’ via training of magistrates and prosecutors will also be part of the new collaborative efforts, Ramjattan said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

PPP boycotts Independence reflection

THE parliamentary Opposition on Friday boycotted the “Afternoon of Reflection and Celebration of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary” contending that the programme lacked inclusivity. The Opposition’s position was conveyed to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland and Clerk Sherlock Isaacs by Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira. “Whilst we originally assumed that this was a Parliament of Guyana activity, we realised that the Parliamentary Management Committee had not been involved in the planning of the activity. On further inquiry, we were informed by the Clerk that this was your activity as

Speaker. “Regrettably, the opportunity provided by a parliamentary activity on our 50th Independence Anniversary to reach out and be inclusive and achieve some modicum of bipartisan consensus between the two sides of the Legislature appears to have been ignored,” Teixeira said in her letter. She added that the 50th birthday as a nation calls for forward-thinking and a vision of the future in order to anchor the next generation(s) with “a pride of place” in Guyana and inclusion is key and critical. “Therefore, we find what appears to be an inexplicable restriction on the recognition of parliamentarians to the First and Second Parliaments

alone. In our opinion, the 50 years of our independence includes all parliamentarians who have served and continue to serve Guyana over these five decades and 11 Parliaments. “Therefore, the opportunity to be more inclusive and to reflect the diversity in our Legislature and of our nation -- gender, youth, age, ethnicity -- appears to have also been lost,” the Opposition Chief Whip said. Tw o p a r l i a m e n t a r ians, Oscar Clarke and Llewellyn John, who were listed to speak were from the same parliamentary political party, Teixeira also pointed out. “We have noted that no Member of Parliament for the PPP who served in the

Brother of ‘Skinny’ on murder charge THE brother of the now dead notorious criminal Jermaine Charles, called “Skinny”, was on Friday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for the 2015 execution of an Agricola, East Bank Demerara shopkeeper. Twenty-nine-year-old Jamil Junior Young, aka Jamil Charles, was not required to plead to the indictable charge of murder, which he allegedly committed on 27-year–old Randy Persaud on March 10, 2015 at Agricola, East Bank Demerara. Questioned about his name, the Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara man explained that he was forced to take his mother’s maiden name, since his father did not sign for him.

The accused also pointed out that he had not signed any confession statement,

Dead: Randy Persaud and had been beaten on the soles of his feet by police ranks, one of whom even placed a gun in his month and threatened to kill him if he didn’t confess.

After hearing the accused, the Chief Magistrate remanded him until November 17 for report, since the file of police prosecutor Neville Jeffers was incomplete. Young has been suspected to be part of a notorious gang that operated during the 2002 crime wave, creating havoc in the country. On Wednesday, October 26 last, acting on information received to the effect that Young was hiding out in Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara, ranks staked out a building and arrested him on that morning. Reports are that a week before Persaud was gunned down, he had survived a similar execution attempt while travelling in a car in Brutus Street, Agricola.

Cuban nationals fined for overstaying in Guyana

CUBAN nationals Yabusley Quintana, 32, and Alberto Costas, 52, were on Friday each fined $60,000 with an alternative of 30 days’ imprisonments for failing to comply with the conditions under which they were allowed to stay in Guyana. Before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, Quintana, a tourist, pleaded guilty to a charge detailing that she

had failed to comply with the conditions under which she was allowed to stay in Guyana from June 14 to July 13 by staying beyond the time permitted. And Costas, a construction worker, pleaded guilty to a charge detailing that he had failed to comply with the conditions under which he was allowed to stay in Guyana from April 30 to July 29 by staying beyond

the time permitted. The court heard that the Cubans had both arrived in Guyana as tourists at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), and Quintana was granted a month’s stay by immigration officers while Costas was granted three months’ stay. After paying the fine, the two nationals will be deported to their homeland.

Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira

First and Second Parliaments has been included on the programme. Nor are we aware of what attempts have been made to contact the six (6) surviving members. It may have been wise, in retrospect, to have sought the assistance of the People’s Progressive Party on this matter. “One of these parliamentarians, in particular, must be specifically identified due to the glaring lack of any female MP on the pro-

gramme, and, that is Mrs Philomena Sahoye-Shury (a member of the 2nd Parliament) who also served as a parliamentarian as recently as in the 9th Parliament,” Teixeira said. She contended that the lack of inclusivity of younger MPs, female MPs and ethnically diverse MPs reflective of “who we are as a nation”, in the programme, “is a sad reflection of where we are as a nation at 50 years old.”

‘Aim for higher education’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

–– President Granger tells BHS graduates

PRESIDENT David Granger on Thursday urged graduates of the Berbice High School (BHS) class 2016 to aim for higher education, particularly in disciplines of agriculture, environmental science and information technology, to ensure that they are well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to the development of a ‘green’ Guyana. The Head of State was at the time delivering remarks at the school’s annual graduation and prize-giving ceremony, where over 100 students who wrote the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), received their certificates. President Granger lauded the head teacher and staff of the school, which is the top secondary institution in East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six) and, which moved up to the position of fifth in the country this year from seventh in 2015. Speaking of the school’s motto “Carpe Diem,” the President reminded the graduates

that completing secondary school should not be the end of the road and urged them to seize every available opportu-

He explained that Guyana is blessed with an abundance of natural resources and rich biodiversity, which must be

Chairman Mr. David Armogan, who delivered the charge, reminded that the world is rapidly changing

Mr. Armogan encouraged the young graduates to set short, medium and long-term goals for themselves and work

Berbice High School’s graduating class of 2016 nity for higher learning. “I want to congratulate you on the step that you have taken. A new chapter is about to unfold in your lives; new opportunities are about to be opened, new pathways lie ahead and your education here at Berbice High School has prepared you for all of those opportunities,” he said.

properly managed and protected at all costs. “We are part of the lungs of the earth. We are a global resource and I look to you the graduates to help to protect our wildlife, our coastal zone, our rivers and the atmosphere, so that generations to come will enjoy these resources,” the President said. Meanwhile, Regional

as a result of technology and urged the graduates to ensure that they are not left behind. “Today we have just turned an important corner, but you are far from the end of the road… You are free to dream big, but unless you chase those dreams, they will never become a reality,” he said.

towards achieving them. He said that while the country owes each of them a living, they have a corresponding responsibility to contribute to its development. He also urged them to adhere to the tenets of social justice, democratic values, fundamental human rights and the rule of law. Guest Speaker at the

event, veteran educator Ms. Shafiran Bhagan, commended the Government of Guyana for its commitment to improving the education sector. She made specific mention of the One Laptop Per Teacher and the Boats, Buses, Bicycles + Breakfast and Books (‘Five Bs’) programmes, which, she said, are transforming access to and delivery of education. This year, a total of 138 BHS students wrote the CSEC examinations in 25 subject areas, of which 124 passed five or more subjects with Grades One to Three, a success rate of 89.85 percent. Head Teacher, Ms. Tracey Helligar, in her report, disclosed that despite challenges in certain areas, a total of 247 Grade Ones were obtained compared with 207 in 2015. This year’s top CSEC student is Jose Cummings, who gained 13 Grade Ones, three Grade Twos and two Grade Threes, while Ronichia Schwiers is the school’s top CAPE student with four Grade Twos and two Grade Threes. (Ministry of the Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

‘Let us celebrate Diwali as a nation’ ––Minister Ally urges Guyanese

AS Guyana observes Diwali today, Minister of Social Cohesion, Ms Amna Ally, is urging citizens to celebrate the festival as one nation. There has been disagreement within the Hindu community as to which day is the correct one for the celebration. Government

has officially declared today as Diwali, while another group of citizens, particularly those subscribing to the Hindu Dharmic Sabha organisation, have opted to celebrate the occasion on Sunday. Minister Ally made the comments on Wednesday during her address at a

pre-Diwali cultural event hosted by the management and staff of the West Demerara Regional Hospital, Essequibo Islands – West Demerara (Region Three). “Let us celebrate [Diwali] as a nation. Let us celebrate our achievements as a nation. Let us celebrate our diversities… as a people we are dif-

Minister of Social Cohesion, Amna Ally

ferent in terms of religion, culture, age, race, ethnicity, geographic location and all those things that give us our own identity. But we are beautifully put together as a people with our diversities,” the minister said. She added that Guyana’s multicultural population is such that the religious holidays are observed by all ethnicities and all people are given a chance to celebrate. With unity at the helm of the

ministry’s mandate, Minister Ally added that on a larger note, the Ministry of Social Cohesion will seek to ensure that of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it will make a tangible contribution to achieving Goal number One, which is to end poverty in all its forms. “That is why we have taken the lead with the Bs Initiative. The aim is to ensure that children in Guyana have access to education…

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016 It is only when a good education is acquired, that one is placed in a good position to compete on the labour market and enjoy a certain standard of living,” she said. Goal number 10, which is to reduce inequalities, is also high on the ministry’s list of priorities, the minister stated. “The vision for Social Cohesion in Guyana is for a unified country, where diversities are embraced, where conflicts are resolved, collaboration with stakeholders are strengthened and decisions made result in equal opportunities and benefits for all,” she

said. On that note, Minister Ally mentioned the ministry’s ongoing consultations initiative aimed at gathering feedback from stakeholders countrywide on issues affecting social cohesion in various communities. The feedback will contribute to a National Strategic Plan 2017-2021. She noted that among the several consultations held thus far, stakeholders from Region Three were also part of this process during an outreach held in the region in September. “We want to hear from stakeholders so that issues of

concern to Guyanese could be addressed, so that we can embrace cohesion,” she said. Drawing attention back to the significance of Diwali, the minister said, “let us enjoy this victory of good over evil…let us not allow our differences to divide us…let’s unite so that one day we would see a unified Guyana where our diversities are embraced and conflicts are resolved, and we can truly celebrate as Guyanese: One people, One nation and One destiny,” the minister said. (Ministry of the Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Trucker charged with ganja possession CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Friday remanded Leroy Junior Fraser of Buck Hall, Essequibo River, to prison until November 18 when he appeared before her to answer a charge of having, on October 26 last, at 70 Kilometres Police Station on the Barama Road, 674 grams of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. The 43-year-old truck driver pleaded not guilty to the charge; but according to the facts read by police prosecutor Inspector Neville Jeffers, at about 01:30hrs on the day in question, ranks at the 70 Kilometres Police Outpost, conducting a routine search, stopped the vehicle the accused was driving. They found a bulky plastic bag stashed in the spare wheel of

the said vehicle, and a search was carried out on the bag, which was found to contain three transparent bags with the suspected cannabis inside. Fraser was arrested, and under caution admitted to knowledge of the cannabis. Fraser explained to the court that there were several persons in the vehicle at the time. “Ninety-five percent of that story isn’t true; it was one of them man (passenger) own… When we been at Buck Hall landing, I told him I’m not carrying no weed in my vehicle,” the man stressed. He pointed out that he had led the police to the suspect, but the man was later released and he was charged instead. The Chief Magistrate has remanded Fraser and transferred the matter to the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.

Saturday October 29th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Sunday October 30th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Monday October 31th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Guyanese delegation heads to Cuba trade fair

A DELEGATION of thirteen Guyanese drawn from seven companies within Guyana’s private sector will be heading to Cuba to attend the 34th staging of The Havana International Fair 2016 -- annual highlight of the Cuban Government and private sector, and an important fair for investors from across the globe. The delegation will use the event to expand the horizons of their businesses while seeking exposure for what Guyana has to offer to not just Cuba, but the rest of the world. The PSC held a meeting at its Waterloo Street headquarters in Georgetown on Friday to brief Business Minister Dominic Gaskin and members of the media on the event. PSC Executive Director Ms. Elizabeth Alleyne, who gave a sneak peek into the much-anticipated international trade fair, said that FIHAV is a massive undertaking which brings

together thousands of investors from across the globe. She recalled that, last year alone, the fair brought together 1000 companies drawn from 70 countries; and she said the participation of Guyana’s private sector in this 34th staging of FIHAV this year stemmed from an initial proposal that Guyana’s Ambassador to Cuba, His Excellency Halim Majeed, made to the Chairman of the Trade and Investment Sub-Committee of the Private Sector Commission, Mr. Ramesh Dookhoo. She extended gratitude to Ambassador Majeed for this initiative, noting that his “diligent efforts made this mission possible”; and she also had kudos for Mr. Ramesh Dookhoo, who coordinated the effort. “The assistance of His Excellency Mr. Julio Marchante, Ambassador of Cuba to Guyana, was invaluable,” the Director said, as she also commended Captain

Gerry Gouveia for the part he played in signing an agreement with the airline EasySky out of Honduras to commence the ‘non-stop flights’ to Cuba from which the Guyanese delegates would benefit. And touching on the special historic relationship which Cuba and Guyana have shared over the years, Ms. Alleyne said that it lends significance to this mission. “As we all know, Cuba has been sending medical outreach teams to Guyana for many years. The Cuban Government has also been training, free of charge, large numbers of our young people every year to become doctors and return and enhance health care in the country.” The PSC Executive Director said the Commission is extremely pleased that Business Minister Dominic Gaskin would accompany the private sector representatives. She said some of the delegates would be seeking new markets in Cuba, while others are hoping to source raw materials at competitive

costs; but they all expect to seize the opportunity to network and forge new business relationships during the mission. The private sector delegates to this Cuba trade fair comprise the following persons: From Roraima Airways – Captain Gerald Gouveia, Mr. Dellon Murray, Ms. Priscilla Ramcharran and special guest Mr. Wesley Kirton. From Banks DIH – Mr. Carlton Joao and Mr. Dwain Bristol From the Beharry Group of Companies – Ms. Ruth Autar and Ms. Rishma Ajodha From Global Seafoods – Ms. Allison Butters-Grant From the Guyana Rice Development Board – Mr. Nizam Hassan From Gafson’s Industries – Mr. Oswald Motilal And representing the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) will be Ms. Uchenna Gibson and Mr. Roy Blackman.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

GCAA wants independent aircraft accident probe unit

THE Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has noted the need to bring greater independence to the body’s aircraft accident and incident investigations unit. The agency’s new Director-General Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d) Egbert Fields, told the Guyana Chronicle that moves are already being made to have the accident unit delinked from the GCAA. This matter which has been identified as a priority for the Authority, is significant for ensuring transparency and professionalism when investigating aviation accidents and incidents. It is also a requirement that will contribute to Guyana scoring well with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as they prepare to visit Guyana for an audit next

month. Fields said that the GCAA is adamant that it cannot be closely linked to the accident unit, but must have an independent party fulfilling that aspect of aviation management. “This is tantamount to us investigating ourselves,” Field said, explaining that this cannot be the case. He said that aviation stakeholders are supportive of this move, with some even suggesting that the investigation unit be separately housed from the GCAA. “The Authority has taken steps to have the unit delinked from GCAA. We have at the moment an Accident Investigations Act that speaks to the unit being headed by an independent person who reports directly to the minister and to have its own budget under the ministry,” Fields noted.

He explained that the GCAA cannot be directly involved in accident/incident investigations since the report can very well implicate the GCAA if liable. This can relate to policies or management issues. In relation to a possible occurrence, Fields said, “It could very well be that the Authority failed to do something or needs to address something and this would have to be reflected in the report.” Fields said that in a nutshell, the unit must be independent and function in that way. In the past, accident and incident investigations were done and the report would have gone to the Director-General then the minister. Stakeholders had complained bitterly, with some questioning the independence and integrity of accidents/incidents

investigation done by the very people who might have to share or accept culpability. In 2014, a number of aircraft accidents and incidents forced stakeholders to demand independence of the investigation unit. The accidents included the death of a Canadian pilot and local cargo handler due to alleged overweight and unstrapped objects and the toppling of a Cessna by an alleged “texting,” pilot among others. The Aircraft Owners Association of Guyana (AOAG) had stated then that the GCAA needed to be investigated whenever there was an aircraft accident because of its position as the regulatory civil aviation body, while calling for the presence of Flight Operations Inspectors (FOIs). It was said that the practice internationally

was that independent arms investigate accidents since the body would be investigating itself should it perform that task. It was related also that failure to separate the investigation unit from the GCAA was leaving room for corrupt practices since there were suspicions and later allegations made by stakeholders of money being paid out for desirable findings. The GCAA had responded to concerns and questions in a statement that described allegations as an “obfuscation of the facts”. They said that Guyana as a signatory to the Convention on International Civil Aviation is mandated to carry out a safety investigation in conformity with the protocols and procedures

set out in Annex 13. Annex 13, it was noted, speaks to safety investigation with the sole objective of preventing accidents and incidents. “It is not the purpose of this type of activity to apportion blame or liability.” The Authority said at the time that while there were no in-house FOIs, they had a readily available one from the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System (CASSOS). The current GCAA head has already noted that two in-house FOIs will be employed. The Accident and Incident Investigation Unit is being overseen by senior aviation personnel Paula Mc Adam, who has extensive experience and knowledge in aviation accident investigation and safety.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

England fight back after Tamim century Friendship Secondary GCB NSSCL 2016...

(REUTERS)-Bangladesh lost their last nine wickets for 49 runs as England hit back from a slow start on the first day of the second and final Test in Dhaka. Tamim Iqbal hit 104 as Bangladesh cruised to 171 for one but off-spinner Moeen Ali took five for 5-57 as the hosts crumbled to 220 all out. England then lost three

wickets, including captain Alastair Cook for 14 and were 50-3, 170 runs behind, when rain brought an early end to the day’s play. Joe Root (15) and Moeen (2) were unbeaten for the touring side, who lead the series 1-0. On a manic opening day at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, the hosts collapsed

crowned East Bank champions

Tamim Iqbal century was his third against England and eight overall Mominul was equally impressive and his innings featured 10 fours before he was bowled by Moeen with a delivery that did not spin. Moeen also picked up the wicket of Mushfiqur, Moeen Ali claimed a five-wicket haul on the who had earlier crashed to first day in Mirpur. the ground after being hit either side of the tea break, were particularly rough on on the side of his helmet by a triggered by Tamim’s dismissal debutant left-arm spinner bouncer from Stokes. The paceman got the ball after scoring his eighth hundred Zafar Ansari, who replaced off-spinner Gareth Batty in in Tests. M o e e n b e g a n t h i n g s the side. Ansari went for 36 runs in with Tamim’s prized scalp as he picked up his second his six overs in the first session five-wicket haul in tests while and did not bowl again. T. Iqbal lbw b Ali 104 Tamim, who did not score I. Kayes c Duckett b Woakes 1 paceman Chris Woakes also 66 off his first 19 balls, needed M. Haque b Ali picked up three wickets. c Cook Bangladesh looked in com- 60 deliveries to bring up his Mahmudullah b Stokes 13 plete control when Tamim (104) half-century and reached his S. Al Hasan c Bairstow 10 and Mominul Haque (66) add- century with two consecutive b Woakes M. Rahim c Cook b Ali 4 ed 170 for the second wicket boundaries off Moeen. Sa. Rahman c Bairstow The left-hander hit 12 b Stokes despite losing Imrul Kayes in 0 the third over of the day after fours in his 147-ball innings, S. Hom c Bairstow b Woakes 6 Hasan lbw b Ali 1 skipper Mushfiqur Rahim had which included a reprieve M. T. Islam not out 5 when he was given out on 66, K. Rabbi c Root b Ali won the toss and opted to bat. 0 10 Tamim and Mominul took caught down the leg side off Extras (b-1 lb-9) 220 time to settle but ensured En- Stokes, a decision which was Total (all out, 63.5 overs) Fall of wickets: 1-1 I. Kayes,2-171 gland did not have many oppor- overturned on review with T. Iqbal,3-190 M. Haque,4-196 tunities to make further inroads replays confirming the ball Mahmudullah,5-201 M. Rahim,6-202 Sa. Rahman,7-212 S. Hom,8-213 M. had brushed his shirt. in the first session. S. Al Hasan,10-220 Tamim fell leg before to Hasan,9-215 The duo launched a countK. Rabbi er-attack against some way- Moeen after offering no shot to Bowling:C. Woakes 9 - 3 - 30 – 3,S. ward English bowling and a straight delivery.

to move both ways and accounted for Mahmudullah and Sabbir Rahman, both caught edging behind, to further Bangladesh’s collapse. I n re p l y, S h a k i b A l Hasan dismissed Ben Duckett in his first over, the second of the innings, before Cook and Gary Ballance fell to teenage off-spinner Mehedi Hasan.

SCOREBOARD Finn 8 - 1 - 30 – 0, M. Ali 19.5 - 5 - 57 – 5,Z. Ansari 6 - 0 - 36 – 0, B. Stokes 11 - 5 - 13 – 2, A. Rashid 10 - 0 - 44 – 0. ENGLAND 1st innings A. Cooklbw b M. Hasan 14 B. Duckett c Rahim b Al Hasan 7 J. Root not out 15 G. Ballance c Rahim b M. Hasan 9 M. Ali not out 2 Extras (b-1 lb-2) 3 Total (for 3 wickets, 12.3 overs) 50 Fall of wickets: 1-10 B. Duckett,2-24 A. Cook,3-42 G. Ballance To bat: B. Stokes, J. Bairstow, Z. Ansari, C. Woakes, A. Rashid, S. Finn Bowling: M. Hasan 6.3 - 1 - 26 – 2, S. Al Hasan 6 - 2 - 21 – 1.

Ronaldo angry about lack of goals, says Zidane By Richard Martin (REUTERS)-Cristiano Ronaldo is angry with his recent record in front of goal but not anxious about when he will find the net next, Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said yesterday. With four strikes in nine appearances in all competitions, Real’s all-time top scorer is in the midst of his worst start to a season since joining the Spanish champions from Manchester United in 2009. Ronaldo failed to score in Real’s 5-1 drubbing of Legia Warsaw and Sunday’s 2-1 success over Athletic Bilbao, substitute Alvaro Morata hitting the winner to take Real top of La Liga. “I don’t think he’s anxious but he is perhaps angry,

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane speaks to Cristiano Ronaldo before the penalty shootout against. Atletico at - San Siro Stadium, Milan, Italy Reuters / Stefano Rellandini Livepic

he wants to score goals and that’s normal,” Zidane told a news conference ahead of Real’s trip to Alaves. Ronaldo is the Ballon d’Or favourite after winning the Champions League with

Real and European Championship with Portugal. He also scored over 50 goals for Real for a record sixth consecutive season. “He is unique because of what he has done and what

he continues to do. He has set the bar so high that when he doesn’t score people on the outside are surprised,” said Zidane. “He has to live with that, that’s what it’s like for phenomenal players like him.” Alaves are 13th in the standings on 10 points, 11 behind Zidane’s side. The Frenchman, however, is wary of the threat posed by the Basque side, who beat champions Barcelona 2-1 at the start of the campaign, as his team look to build on a three-game winning streak in La Liga and the league and Champions League. “I expect a very difficult game. They haven’t lost at home yet and are doing so well this season,” added Zidane.

FRIENDSHIP Secondary were crowned East Bank Demerara zone champions after they defeated Diamond Secondary in a tense, low-scoring final which was played at the Everest ground yesterday, as the 2016 edition of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) National Secondary School Cricket League (NSSCL) continues. Diamond won the toss and elected to take first strike, but they could manage only 81 all out in 22.3 overs. Mavendra Dindyal topscored with 14, which was his first lowest score of the competition. Romario Persaud was the only other batsmam to reach double figures, contributing 13. Shem Zaman wrecked the Diamond batsmen as he took 4/14, skipper Orlando Ghisiawan had 2/9 and Jonathan Jagdeo claimed 2/15 bowling for Friendship. Friendship started shakily

when they lost their first five wickets for 33 runs. However, Shem Zaman and Shawn Harry took the score to 81 before Zaman was dismissed for 33. Two further wickets fell on the same score as a revived Diamond Secondary hopes of a tie grew stronger. Shawn Harry’s lucky inside edge down to fine leg for a single sent the Friendship team into a frenzy after pulling off a tense chase. Harry finished on 19 not out. Bowling for Diamond Secondary, Anil Singh took 3/24, while Mavendra Dindyal had 2/20. The winning zone final trophy was presented to Friendship Secondary by GCB representative Anthony D’Andrade after the match. The NSSCL will continue Tuesday,November 1, 2016, with defending champions Chase Academy playing Christ Church Secondary at the GCC ground , Bourda, from 10:30 hrs.

10-team Elite ... From back page

they were given the opportunity to comment on those changes and to make recommendations. I could tell you that 97 percent of the recommendations that came from the Elite Club body were taken on by the Competitions Department and endorsed by the Executive Committee. “We had invited the clubs to a third meeting but only four of the eight clubs showed up at that meeting and we proceeded to have a good conversation on the logic and rationale behind the decision to expand the League. We have had further private informal discussions and consultations with the Presidents of all of our Elite Clubs, and so I feel satisfied that the consultation process was very comprehensive and the clubs had an opportunity to raise their concerns”, Forde lamented. Forde also expounded on the duties of the Executive of the GFF: “What we want to be clear on is the fact that the Executive Committee was elected to execute a mandate to develop football and it is our prerogative to consult with our members, to reach out to our members, to solicit, buy in from our members on the programmes that we want to pursue, but that must not be

mistaken for the Executive seeking permission or authorisation to implement new plans, new ideas and new strategies. “We were elected to do exactly that, to change the face of football and to make changes that will influence the direction of the development of the sport. “Those precedents have been set by FIFA and CONCACAF, so I have no difficulty in making it clear that the Executive was elected and we are accountable to the membership. It is part of our mandate to pursue a developmental path that we think will bode well for Guyana’s football in the future”, Forde emphasised. The President also promised that outstanding payments to Elite Clubs and all stakeholders will be made early next week, while disclosing that admission to matches in this upcoming Elite League has been slashed in half from last season’s price of $1,000. The Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) in Queenstown is the venue for the launching of the 2016-2017 Stag Elite League. The 10 competing teams are: Cup holders Slingerz FC, runners-up Alpha United, Fruta Conquerors FC, Pele FC, GDF, Monedderlust FC, GFC, Buxton United, Victoria Kings and Top XX.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Mennie bolts into Aussie Test squad

(REUTERS)-Australia’s selectors sprung a major surprise yesterday by naming uncapped fast bowler Joe Mennie in a 12-man squad for the first two matches of a three-Test series against South Africa beginning in Perth next week. Mennie was part of an inexperienced bowling attack that was humbled by the Proteas batsmen in the recent one-day series in South Africa, which the hosts won 5-0. Despite accumulating figures of 0-82 on debut, the 27-year-old was preferred to Jackson Bird, who toured New Zealand and Sri Lanka After a horror ODI debut, South Australia’s Joe as part of the Australian Mennie is the new face in Australia’s Test squad. Test squad. “Joe bowls a great length for Queensland this week performed very well in at a lively pace and his form in a Sheffield Shield match Perth and Hobart so we in first-class cricket has been against a New South Wales have opted to go with him,” terrific in the last 12 months,” side featuring the heart of Marsh added. Left-hander Usman chairman of selectors Rod the Australia bowling unit. Marsh, who replaced Khawaja also returns to Marsh said in a statement. Burns for the third Test in the the side after he and Burns “He also impressed us series in Sri Lanka and made were dropped during the 3-0 during the recent Australia 130 and 23, has also been in drubbing in Sri Lanka and A Series in Queensland. good domestic form, though, looks likely to bat at number “He was the highest wicket-taker in the Sheffield Shield and proved he had recovered three. The middle order has last season and is very handy from his injury by playing for Western Australia. remained intact despite with the bat.” “Both Shaun and Joe Australia’s struggles with Selectors also chose Shaun played very well in the the bat against spin bowlMarsh over Joe Burns to open Sheffield Shield round ing in Sri Lanka. alongside David Warner. Josh Hazlewood and Burns hoped he had but Shaun is coming off back-to-back hundreds Mitchell Starc, who proved done enough for a recall by in Test matches and has his fitness in the Sheffield scoring an unbeaten century

Shield after recovering from a nasty leg injury, look set to lead the pace attack. The first Test begins in Perth next Thursday with the second match in Hobart and

a day-nighter in Adelaide to follow. Team (one to be omitted): Shaun Marsh, David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith (captain),

Adam Voges, Mitchell Marsh, Peter Nevill (wicketkeeper), Mitchell Starc, Joe Mennie, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon.

Radwanska to face Kerber in WTA semis

AGNIESZKA Radwanska will play world number one Angelique Kerber in the WTA Finals last four after beating Karolina Pliskova 7-5 6-3. The Polish defending champion overcame Finals debutant Pliskova in 78 minutes. French Open champion Garbine Muguruza avoided a whitewash at the event as she beat Svetlana Kuznetsova 3-6 6-0 6-1 in their dead rubber. Russian Kuznetsova was already through as group winner with Muguruza out after defeats in her first two matches. Kuznetsova, who only qualified for the tournament with victory at the Kremlin Cup in Moscow on Saturday, will meet Slovak world number eight Dominika Cibulkova in Saturday’s other semi-final. Radwanska had

Agnieszka Radwanska leads Angelique Kerber 6-5 in their head-to-head meetings.

match point in her groupstage defeat to Kuznetsova earlier this week and the world number three looked in good form as she racked up a seventh successive straight-sets win over Czech Pliskova. She is playing amazing tennis this year,” Radwanska told BT Sport when asked about her meeting with Kerber. “She has been on fire, playing unbelievable on ev-

ery surface. I have nothing to lose and have to be 200% to beat her.” The busy schedule that Kuznetsova put herself through to qualify for the event appeared to catch up with the 31-year-old as she faded badly in defeat to Muguruza. “To go to the limit, you need to push yourself hard, but I want to do that tomorrow,” Kuznetsova said. (BBC Sport)

take the field alongside St Pius who will have to play Redeemer Lutheran Primary for the winner to advance. North Georgetown will go head to head with St Margarets from 12:30hrs, while St Angela’s Primary will face Maes for a spot in the next round. The final game of the afternoon will see St. Agnes playing South Ruimveldt Primary, while West Ruimveldt Primary will oppose St Gabriel’s.

Teams for the round of 16 were chosen on the basis of points accumulated during the round-robin phase, with the first and second places gaining automatic entries. The final four spots were awarded on the basis of the four best third-place finishers. The various winners of today’s matches will move on to play for positions 1-8, while the losers will vie for positions 9 to 16.

Proteas bowlers struggle against second-string side Knockout stages commence today in COURTS/Petra U-11 football

SOUTH Africa’s bowlers struggled for impact against what was effectively a South Australia second XI at Glenelg on Friday, with a century from Tim Ludeman steering the locals to 8 for 435 . It was the last day of match practice for the South Africans ahead of the first Test, starting on Thursday, and while they rested spearheads Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada, the lack of penetration from the rest might have been a concern. (Final scores: South Australia XI 8 for 435 (Ludeman 167, Raphael 91, Winter 63,

Maharaj 3-59) drew with South Africa 489). Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj finished with the best figures, 3 for 59, and Morne Morkel picked up 2 for 67 from 14 overs. But Vernon Philander went wicketless in 14 costly overs and Kyle Abbott also leaked more than five per over, claiming 1 for 64 from his 12. When play was called off for the day, the South Australians had moved along to 8 for 435 in reply to South Africa’s 489. The first wicket, that of opener Johnathon Dalton, came via a run-out with the total on 57, and Maharaj then

trapped Brad Davis lbw for 22. But then came a 105-run partnership between the two most experienced members of the South Australia outfit, the captain Sam Raphael, and the wicketkeeper Ludeman, who together pushed the total on to 200. Raphael fell short of a century, caught off the spin of JP Duminy for 91, but Ludeman found another capable ally in the 19-year-old Jake Winter, and together they added a further 159 for the fourth wicket. Ludeman finally departed for 167 and Winter made 63.(ESPN Cricinfo)

KNOCKOUT-round action in the Petra-organised Courts Pee-Wee under-11 schools football competition will commence today after weeks of round-robin games. In the first game of the day, Marian Academy will take on Winfer Gardens from 11:00hrs, while St Stephens will take on Tucville in the second of the two games to be played simultaneously. At 11: 45hrs, F.E. Pollard and Stella Marris will

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Driven, dedicated, and disciplined, young Aleka Persaud is blazing a trail in the pool

Aleka Persaud displays just a few of her many medals and trophies

HIS week we look at another aspiring Olympian. A determined, dedicated and disciplined young lady with great prospects, who began shining as a national swimmer last year. She is young Aleka Persaud, a prolific swimmer with multiple agegroup national records. Thus far, Persaud has

performed only at the local and regional levels, but she has already proven that she is quite the force to be reckoned with. The only thing stopping her from being Guyana’s top female swimmer is time. After training since the age of three, Aleka burst to the fore last year at just nine years old and was Guyana’s most accomplished swimmer on the Goodwill Swim Meet team last year. Persaud landed her five gold and one silver medal; one of those gold medals was won in a record- breaking performance. She holds the 36.20 seconds record in the girls’ 8 and under 50m butterfly at the Goodwill Swim Meet. That performance followed remarkable local presentations, by Aleka last year, when she dominated the 8 and under category. Aleka holds all of the national records of the girls’ 8 and under category, and is currently blazing a trail in the 9 – 10 category. Many who have met this petite New Guyana School student

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday October 29, 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: Brian Lara-277 (WI vs AUST, Sydney, 1992-93) Saeed Anwar (WI vs PAK, Faisalabad, 1990) Today’s Quiz: Put these in order beginning with the team that the WI have defeated most in Tests: Pakistan, Australia, England, India Inclusive of Brian Lara 400 not out, how many 300-plus scores have now been made in Test cricket? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Aleka Persaud (centre) dives of to a win in an event at the Independence Swim Meet earlier this year is astounded by just how driven, and passionate she is about being a swimmer. She sets strategic goals that she wants to accomplish, times she wants to achieve, always looking out to better her own times. Despite her small size and age, she’s working wonders at balancing her training and her academics, so much so that she has even taken up doing tae-

kwondo over the past year. “She’s small but she’s extremely strong for her age. She has the desire and the right attitude. She’s one of the most talented swimmers I’ve seen in a number of years, she has surpassed any other Guyanese swimmer in terms of her time, her attitude is head on, she wants to win, she goes out there to win, she works hard, she’s diligent,

she just doesn’t give up,” said her coach Sean Baksh. Baksh says Aleka is just a natural, born swimmer. “And she’s well adapted for water,” he noted. Her dad, president of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA), Ivan Persaud, says she is one competitive young lady. “She’s very competitive, she’s very serious about it,”

Ivan commented. Now she has her sights set on being Guyana’s youngest Olympian. And she just might be if she makes Tokyo 2020, when she will be just 14 years old. Guyana’s youngest Olympian has been Britany van Lange, also a swimmer, who was just 16 years old when she represented Guyana at the 2012 London Olympics.

Cornwall wants batting promotion with Leeward Islands FRESH off a solid performance for the West Indies A all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall is hoping for a promotion up the batting order for Leeward Islands ahead of the new WICB Regional 4 Day Cricket Tournament. Cornwall batted at seven during last season’s tournament averaging 19 runs with a high score of 97. The player,

however, admits that he would much prefer to bat higher up the order for the team. “I am never satisfied batting at number seven for the Leeward Islands. I think it’s just a role the team wants me to play and probably hold up the lower order. But for me, I would probably love to bat at number five for Leeward

Islands and put in the work in the nets, because I am more a genuine batsman than a bowler. But of late, the bowling has been working for me. I think that once I get my thing right in the nets, it could be more runs later down in the season for me,” Cornwall told the Antigua Observer. Cornwall was far more

outstanding with the ball than the bat in the recently concluded ‘A’ team tour of Sri Lanka. He ended as the leading wicket taker for the three unofficial Tests, claiming a total of 23 for 456 runs at an economy rate of 3.08. With the bat he managed 30 runs in three Test matches. (Sportsmax.com)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 29, 2016

Beharry recommits to Green Machine

THE Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) will continue to reap the benefits of having Edward B. Beharry as one of its sponsors. The company yesterday handed over a sum of money to the union to aid the Green Machine in this year’s Rugby America’s North (RAN) Sevens Championship, billed for November 12-13 in Port of Spain, Trinidad. Executives of Edward B. Beharry hand over During a press briefing the cheque to the Green Machine. yesterday, Kamini Naresh, the company’s brand manager noted that the compa- most successful outdoor committed to supporting the ing Manager, Satesh Singh, ny was proud to continu- sports team. union and wished them well reminded the media that the ously support the nation’s She added that Beharry is at the tournament. Market- company and rugby have

forged a friendship President of the union, Peter Green, reminded his charges that sponsorships such as Beharry’s must be rewarded with nothing less than excellence. The tournament will see Guyana with both men and women’s teams participating. For the men’s division, 14 nations have been listed with three in Pools A&B and four each in groups C&D. In pool A, Canada, Bermuda and the British Virgin Islands will battle, while pool B will have Mexico, St Vincent and the Grenadines and hosts

Trinidad. Pool C will have The Cayman Islands, Barbados, Curacao and The Dominican Republic, while Guyana will take on Jamaica, the Turks and Caicos Islands and Martinique in pool D. On the distaff side, there are two pools of five teams each, with Canada, Jamaica, The Cayman Islands, Bermuda and the Turks and Caicos Islands in Pool A and Pool B featuring Mexico, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, The Bahamas and The Dominican Republic.(Stephan Sookram)

T&T, St. Kitts & Nevis Ming invited for F4 Drive earn CONCACAF U-20 Championship semi-final spots W I L L E M S TA D , C u r a cao-Thanks to a 1-1 draw between Cuba (0W-2D-1L, 2 points) and St. Lucia (0-1-2, 1) in the opener of a Caribbean under-20 qualifying finals, Group B doubleheader on Wednesday at the Estadio Ergilio Haito, Trinidad & Tobago (1-2-0, 5) secured a place in the competition’s semifinals and a berth in the 2017 CONCACAF Under-20 Championship. The Soca Warriors followed that result with a 0-0 stalemate of their own against first-place Haiti (2-1-0, 7) to conclude Group B play. “Credit to every player and every member of staff for this effort,” T&T head coach Brian Williams told TTFA Media.

“We came here with one ambition, which was to get out of the group and secure our place in the CONCACAF phase. And I must tip my hat to the members.” T&T has yet to lose in the tournament that started in June, posting an overall 3-3-0 mark. It’s also the only side to take points from the Haitians (5-1-0). “We played unbeaten in the three games here and we are yet to lose a game in the qualifiers and I think that is something we can feel good about,” expressed Williams, whose squad has yet to concede a goal in the finals. “We are not going to get carried away because we still have a semifinal game to

play and a chance to defend our title in the Caribbean.” The semifinals were slated for last night as Antigua & Barbuda took on T&T to kick off a twin bill that will end with a meeting between Haiti and Bermuda. The match for third place and final will take place tomorrow. By virtue of it finishing as the team with the best thirdplace record, St. Kitts & Nevis (1-1-1, 4) also progressed to the CONCACAF event, which will be played in Costa Rica from February 17-March 5, 2017. The other participants in the 12-team field are: the host nation, Canada, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and the United States.

Trinidad & Tobago (pictured) was down to face to Antigua &Barbuda in one the semifinals in the Caribbean under-20 qualifying tournamentlast night.

The photographs below show Calvin during a race at the “Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez” circuit in June, 2016.” FRESH off his formula 2000 testing, Calvin Ming will rush back into his Formula 4 car today in Mexico. Ming, was invited by the Ram Racing Team of Mexico to drive their Mygale Formula

4 car in the two support races that are being staged during the Mexican Formula 1 Championship race this weekend at the “Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez” circuit in Mexico City.

The support races will each be run over a distance of 12 laps lasting for 25 minutes with today’s race being held after qualifying at 16:00hrs while tomorrow’s race takes place at 9:38.

Beharry recommits to Green Machine

(See Story on page 39 )

GFF announces kick-off date for

10-team Elite League By Ras Wadada

OOTBALLERS and fans of the ‘Beautiful Game’ here in Guyana, are now in a much happier state of mind as the much awaited kick-off date for the second season of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Stag Elite League was announced to the media, yesterday, at the Federation’s boardroom, after weeks of uncertainty due to an ongoing impasse with some Elite Club members. In disclosing the November 13th start, President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, explained to the media the meticulous course of action his executive took to pave the way for a start. “Over the course of the past couple of weeks the Executive Committee have been engaged in a very thorough consultation process with CONCACAF and FIFA to ensure that the guidance that we required in pointing the way forward was clear and concise. “We have concluded the process and our last meeting was yesterday (Thursday October 27th) at 11:30 hrs with the FIFA Professional Arm and we have taken a decision to move forward with the Stag Elite League. A correspondence will be forwarded to the clubs in a matter of hours, indicating the kick-off date which is scheduled to be November 13.”

The football boss denied allegations by some Elite teams that there was no engagement with the clubs on the changes to the League: “I could say that the consultation process that we were engaged in, before we made the final decision to include two additional teams, looked at the format of the League, increased the prize money by $3M, the management of the game-day incentives and had a very thorough consultation process involved. “The first aspect of the process had to do with all the clubs written to formerly by the Competitions Director, soliciting inputs, recommendations and advice on changes that we should consider for season two. Three clubs responded with recommendations and five clubs did not. The second aspect of the consultation was a general meeting with the Elite clubs. “ At that meeting there were exchanges. We shared with them our plans, we shared with them the new format and at that meeting we were asked by the clubs to put our ideas into a plan. A document was prepared by the Executive Committee and members of the secretariat and submitted to the clubs. The document captured every aspect of the changes we want to make to the rules of the tournament and the inclusion, of course, of two additional clubs. “We had a subsequent meeting with the clubs, where At yesterday’s media conference in the boardroom of the GFF, President Wayne Forde (centre) with his deputies, first Vice-president, Retired Brigadier, Bruce Lovell (L) and second Vice-president, Ralston Adams and PRO Debra Francis. See page 36

GCB NSSCL 2016...

GCB representative Anthony D’Andrade presents the winner’s trophy to Friendship Secondary Captain, Orlando Ghisiawan

...refutes allegations of non-consultation

Friendship Secondary crowned East Bank champions (See Story on page 36 )

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FIFA suspends Guatemalan soccer federation

(REUTERS)-FIFA suspended the Guatemalan soccer federation on Friday, in a fight over the powers given to an oversight committee appointed by the international soccer governing body to look into allegations of corruption. The local federation FEDEFUT, which is being administered by the FIFA-appointed oversight body, said in a statement its suspension was due to FEDEFUT members’ refusal to allow an election for a new executive committee. The statement also cited the 34 assembly members’ refusal to approve FIFA-mandated statutes and to recognize an extension of the oversight body’s mandate until July. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016