SUNDAY AUGUST 14, 2016
Price: $140
Immigration ‘very ticklish’ No. 104643
(VAT Inclusive)
‒ But Granger says Guyana willing to accept Venezuelans fleeing economic hardships P.3
A dance group performs during Saturday’s Youth Concert at the National Cultural Centre to mark International Youth Day. (Department of Culture, Youth and Sport photo)
No increase in taxes on steel ‒ Finance imports Minister P.5
‘Find that spark’ ‒ First Lady urges young people
Several hinterland regions benefiting from improved water supply 5 P.
P.2
For the first time in 177 years...
A woman leads the Police Band
See Pepperpot inside
Superintendent Charmaine Stuart
‘Find that spark’ 2
SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
‒ First Lady urges young people By Ariana Gordon YOUNG people have been urged to focus on their goals and aspirations as their future and the future of Guyana depends on their choices. Speaking at the 3rd Just Youth It Conference of Come Alive Network Inc. (CANI) held at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston, First Lady Sandra Granger and Justice Roxanne George urged young people to be sure of what they want and work hard towards achieving their goals.
The First Lady said she has a number of initiatives aimed at developing youngsters and pointed to the Buxton Youth Development Initiative, Information and Communications Technology workshops, self-reliance and success workshops, caring for the elderly workshops and the STEM Guyana project. The First Lady said the aim of the projects is to find ways to push young people forward. She charged the youths present at the conference to volunteer and open their
minds to ideas. This, the First Lady said, will ensure that self-reassessment is done. “We have a responsibility above all to be open to education,” she said, noting that education is not limited to formal education. She called upon the youths to ensure that they develop a culture of respect. “If we want to build a strong society, we have to volunteer, be open to ideas, experiences; always understand that we must constantly reassign ourselves and the situation around us so that when we have to make decisions” appropriate decisions can be made. The First Lady noted the prevalence of violence in the society which suggests that persons have stopped thinking and rationalizing.
First Lady Sandra Granger is escorted in as she arrives at the Just Youth It Conference Saturday morning at the Pegasus Hotel (Delano Williams photo)
Mrs Granger said young people need to be brave, fearless and refrain from holding back. “If we care enough, we can learn; find that spark,” she asserted, as she encouraged the youths to
“do the best for yourselves and by extension your families and communities and your country.” Like the First Lady, Justice Roxanne George urged the young people to work
hard towards their goals. She noted that some may feel pressured to walk in particular footsteps but said, “Know what you want to do, articulate what you want to do… Turn to page 3 ►
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
Immigration ‘very ticklish’ ‒ But Granger says Guyana willing to accept Venezuelans fleeing economic hardships
Some of the Venezuelan men who were ordered deported on July 25, 2016 by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. It was found that they had entered the country illegally at Eteringbang, Cuyuni River
GUYANA will, on humanitarian grounds, assist Venezuelans and persons of other nationalities should they find themselves fleeing from their countries as a result of economic turmoil or political persecution. But despite the foregoing, President David Granger said, assistance will not be done haphazardly. He said: “We are not going to simply open our borders to people who are causally drifting in…but if there is evidence of political persecution or economic deprivation, we are prepared
to give favourable consideration to this.” Speaking on his weekly televised programme, “The Public Interest,” the President said that Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix, has been apprised of Government’s position on the matter, and will act accordingly. The President described migration as a “very ticklish problem”, and noted that Guyana will continue to be guarded on the subject, as the country will not entertain or house sinister characters. “We don’t want to have people who are guilty of any
wrongdoings or involved in terrorism coming into our country,” President Granger said. “From a humanitarian point of view, once we find migrants who are fleeing economic or political persecution and (they) are willing to abide by our laws, we are prepared to give favourable consideration to them,” he said, noting that there are Venezuelan gangs that have been terrorizing some of our indigenous people in Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). “We have to be careful. Yes, we are, on humanitarian grounds, willing to accept
Private Sector Commission welcomes approval of appointments to Procurement Commission THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) has congratulated the National Assembly on its approval of the nominees for the Public Procurement Commission. “The Commission has long advocated for the establishment of the body, which will be charged with responsibility for monitoring public procurement procedures in the country,” the PSC stated. The PSC said it was particularly heartened that the nominees were put forward by both the governing co-
alition government and the Opposition, and the nominations were approved by a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly. “This bodes well for future cooperation between our elected representatives in Parliament, and demonstrates a collective will to put the needs of the country first,” the PSC stated. The members of the Commission, to be appointed by President David Granger following their nomination by the Public
Accounts Committee (PAC) of the National Assembly, are: Emily Dodson, Carol Corbin, Ivor English, Sukrishnalall Pasha, and former Labour Minister Dr Nanda Kishore Gopaul. English is the former head of the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD); Pasha served as Chairman of the Small Business Council; Corbin was Programme Manager at the Caricom Secretariat; and Dodson is an experienced attorney–at-law.
Some of the Venezuelan women who were ordered deported on July 25, 2016. They pleaded a case of “No work and no water!” before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan
people from Venezuela or anywhere, but at the same time we have to protect our people from abuse,” the President declared. The past few weeks have seen a number of Venezuelans being placed before the courts and deported for entering Guyana illegally. On
Tuesday, two Venezuelan females were fined by City Magistrate Leron Daley for entering Guyana illegally. The duo were charged separately for entering Guyana illegally by sea on August 9 at Eteringbang, Cuyuni River, and disembarking without presenting themselves to an
‘Find that... know what your passion is.” Justice George said by having an understanding of what one’s passion is, one can work towards it. Like First Lady Sandra Granger, the High Court Judge called on young people to respect themselves. She said times have changed and so too has the level of respect meted out to peers, and the elderly. “Women, you have to command respect, conduct yourself properly at all times… chose your friends and potential partners carefully,” she said. Justice George also spoke to the issue of abuse and charged all young people to “walk away from relationships that are abusive.” “You cannot be of your best in any career if you are in an abusive relationship… be supportive of family and friends…help them walk away,” she urged. Meanwhile, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Vishnu Doerga, said he respects the work of CANI, noting that with lots of hard work and dedication anything can be achieved. He called on young people to be
immigration officer. The women pleaded guilty to the charge and were fined $30,000 or 12 months’ imprisonment. Weeks before Tuesday’s case, 14 Venezuelans were fined and deported after entering Guyana illegally in search of betterment.
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serious about their education: “The more you educate yourself, the easier your life becomes.” Doerga believes that young people should give themselves time to discover their passion. “Don’t see this as a big struggle…be a volunteer…give yourself time,” he remarked. Also present during the panel discussion titled Legacy, was Pastor Ewart Williams. Williams argued that Guyana has sufficient resources for young people to achieve their goals and stressed that with “passion, energy and God on your side,” anything can be achieved. His argument was premised on social ills affecting the young people of Albouystown. He said many of the youths in that community are faced with many challenges and burdens but have worked their way out of those circumstances. The one-day conference also focused on the creative industry and sport. CANI is the brainchild of Ryan Hoppie, whose father died during a critical period in his life. Hoppie was mentored by a role model who ensured
that he was able to pursue his dreams by providing all of the resources needed along with advice. It is as a result of the assistance he received, Hoppie created CANI in April 2012. CANI has become a youth-oriented Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) aimed at unleashing the potential of young people and service communities throughout Guyana and the world by fostering an environment in which young people are valued. CANI has over 50 volunteers in Guyana, New York and Canada and has a number of signature projects, including the CANI Connect Programme, which focuses on conversations, educational platforms, tours and activities surrounding self-worth, community development, philanthropy and entrepreneurship. CANI also has the annual Come Alive Shoes and Stationery Drive which provides students across the country with much-needed shoes and stationery for school. Thus far, some 700 students have benefited from the project.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
Former top CSEC performers shine at CAPE
ELISA Hamilton, the region’s top 2014 Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) student, has continued to show excellence in her academic endeavours, again performing well, this time in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). After receiving her CAPE results, the young woman took to social media site Facebook to express her
Ashley Anthony
gratitude to those who had aided her along the way. She also posted that she gained Grade One passes in Biology Unit 2, Caribbean Studies, Environmental Science Unit 1, Physics Unit 1, and Pure Mathematics Unit 1. She also gained Grade Two passes in Chemistry Unit 2 and Spanish Unit 1. She has recognized her teachers, friends and family members, whom she described as being “awesome”. After paying President David Granger a courtesy call last week, Hamilton is expected to depart Guyana for the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus on Thursday. She successfully acquired her Presidential Scholarship to pursue studies in the area of medicine. The Queen’s College student wrote 20 CXC subjects and acquired 19 grade ones, including 16 distinctions and a Grade Two two years ago. Another Queen’s College student, Ashley An-
Elisa’s father, Lennox Hamilton; President Granger, Elisa Hamilton and her mother, Paula Hamilton, during a meeting last week thony, daughter of former book post, she sent out Biology Unit 1, Caribbean Ministry of Education is Minister Dr Frank Antho- “big thanks to my parents, Studies, Chemistry Unit 1, preparing a report on the ny, who secured 17 Grade teachers and friends.” Physics Unit 1 and Pure examination results for dissemination at a press Ones last year, was also She received Grade Mathematics Unit One. elated after receiving her Ones in the areas of ApChief Education Offi- conference to be held this CXC results. In her Face- plied Mathematics Unit 1, cer Olato Sam has said the week.
Mental Health Unit refurbished
– has five psychiatrists THE level of mental health care offered by the Ministry of Public Health will be improved with the Mental Health Unit refurbished and staffed with five psychiatrists, the Government Information Agency (GINA) has reported. In addition, there is an emphasis on decentralising mental health care to other regions. This as the country
looks to combat a high rate of suicide. “The Ministry of Public Health has already commenced a process to conduct an HR review that will lead to an HR strategic Plan, after which the MoPH and its partners will identify, train, and allocate additional resources to boost the mental health services, particularly at the community level,”
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Minister within the Ministry of Health, Dr Karen Cummings, is quoted by GINA as saying. The Agency noted that Minister Cummings recognises there are several risk factors that contribute to the high suicide rates in Guyana. The most common risk factors identified are acute emotional distress and depression. “This factor accounts for 36.6 % of all cases. The care of the mentally ill is provided under the legislative framework of the Mental Health Ordinance of 1930, which is antiquated and fails to make provision for the protection of the rights of people with mental disorders,” the Minister stated. Director of the Mental Health Unit, Dr. Meenawattie Rajkumar, is quoted by GINA as stating that prior to May 2016, the unit had not been properly structured to cater to mentally ill patients. Dr. Rajkumar
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added that the unit can now offer counselling and occupational therapy to these patients in a refurbished environment. She said the unit is equipped with five psychiatrists, eight Social Workers, and a pharmacy for the patients to have easier access to treatment. Dr. Rajkumar remarked that the aim of the Metal Health Unit is to break the
stigma that is attached to mental illness in Guyana. Located at 252 Quamina Street, South Cummingsburg, the unit caters for patients with mental disorders on an out-patient basis. The unit’s Director said the Public Health Ministry intends to upgrade the GPHC’s psychiatric department as a specialised in-patient unit, housing patients according
to their level of diagnosis. The organisation of mental health services, beds and professionals in Guyana is currently centralised, responding to persons with mental disorders and concentrating them at the National Psychiatric Hospital at Canje, Berbice, and the Georgetown Public Hospital Psychiatric ward.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
No increase in taxes on steel imports - Finance Minister
THE Ministry of Finance (MoF) has denied reports that taxes on imported steel have been increased. T h e G u y a n a Ti m e s newspaper on Thursday quoted Chairman of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee, Irfaan Ali, as saying: “Finance Minister Winston Jordan circulated on Wednesday a correspondence with [sic]
brokers and other relevant stakeholders, indicating that the tariff (taxes) charged for the importation of steel into Guyana would be doubled, since it has been increased from five per cent to 10 per cent.” The Ministry of Finance categorically rejected the accusation on Saturday, and made clear that the Minister of Finance has not circulated
any correspondence indicating any increase in tariffs for the importation of steel. The Ministry also made clear that there has been no increase in the tariffs associated with the importation of steel. The Finance Ministry said the fact of the matter is that the Quality Review Section of the Guyana Revenue Authority, which is responsible for examining Customs Declarations for valuation, classification and volume discrepancies, identified anomalies in relation
to the importation of alloy steel by several businesses in Guyana. “After a review of the evidence presented, together with the Chapter Notes of the Common External Tariff (CET) and Explanatory Notes, it was determined that most of the Tariff Headings applicable to the type of steel commonly imported would attract a rate of import duty of 10%, instead of 5%.” Under the circumstances, the Finance Ministry said, it was mind-boggling that Mr. Ali could engage in such
dishonesty. “This can only be interpreted as an attempt to create unfounded hysteria within the business community, to score cheap political points and impugn the integrity of the Hon. Minister of Finance. “MOF would like to urge Mr. Ali to set aside his misguided crusade against the Minister of Finance and apprise himself of the facts relevant to the issues on which he engages his supporters.” The Ministry of Finance reiterated that the Minis-
ter neither circulated nor initiated any correction to the applicable rate of import duty; rather, it was the agency responsible for the collection of the country’s taxes that had so done. “Importers who wish to contest the alloy content of the imported steel and the duties applied by the Customs Department could use the usual channels, including appeals to the Commissioner-General, GRA and the Customs Tribunal,” the Ministry of Finance has stated.
Several hinterland regions benefiting from improved water supply MABARUMA in Region One, Monkey Mountain, Princeville and Campbelltown in Region Eight and Rupertee, Wowetta, Marcanata, Kumu and Shulinab in Region Nine are among those areas that benefited in the first half of 2016, under the administration’s drive to increase access to potable water in the hinterland. At a recent press briefing at the Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI) Shelter Belt, Vlissengen Road, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Richard VanWest Charles explained that during the first half of the year, the water company commenced, in Mabaruma,, the drilling of a large reser-
voir to improve distribution to the new town. The project, which is expected to be completed during the second half of the year, will result in residents benefiting from treated water. It will also result in an increase in the hours of water distribution to the community, the CEO said. Meanwhile, according to GWI’s Divisional Manager, for Regions One, Eight and Nine, Osei Manifold, during the first half of the year, a water supply improvement project was completed in Section Two of Monkey Mountain. A total of $13.816M was expended on the project that is benefiting approximately 400 residents. Manifold explained that
the project entailed the construction of a catchment, the installation of a photovoltaic system, distribution system, stand pipes and trestle. He said that it resulted in the residents on the outskirts (or Section 2) of the community, receiving water for the first time. Manifold said, in the past, residents walked long distances to access potable water. GWI had drilled a well at Princeville, installed a photovoltaic system, distribution system, 10 stand pipes and trestles to the cost of $17.198M, and these are benefiting 350 residents. Manifold explained that the intervention at Campbelltown, for which over $16 M was expended, was a
A schoolgirl drinking water at a standpipe at a school in Region Nine
A solar-powered water system in the hinterland result of the dry season. GWI decided to execute the project that entailed the drilling of a well, the installation of photovoltaic system, distribution system, stand pipes and trestles, after residents had complained of not being able to access water from the creeks and springs, due to the prolonged dry season, Manifold explained. The official further explained that the project also catered for the Mahdia Hospital, which was also affected during the dry season. Manifold stated that the hospital administrators were forced to pay a private contractor to supply water to the hospital to satisfy the high demand for water at the health facility, during the dry season. Under the project, an exclusive water line was installed for the Mahdia Hospital. Manifold further explained that the new well drilled connects directly to
the Salbora Creek, so that in the event of another dry season the community and the hospital will not be affected as they will be able to source water directly from the creek. As a result of the dry season, during the first half of the year, the water company was also forced to make interventions in Region Nine, to ensure residents access water. The water company commenced the drilling of eight wells. Manifold reported that five of the wells have been completed; Rupertee, Wowetta, Marcanata, Kumu and Shulinab. Manifold said that the three remaining wells at Kamwatta, Potarinau and Aranaputa would be completed in the second half of the year. Meanwhile, regarding Region Seven, Divisional Manager, Elson Khirattie reported that in Bartica, GWI continues to have sectionalised delivery of water. Khirattie explained that this
is a result of the growth in the area that was not catered for, with the construction of the water treatment plant. Khirattie added that GWI has installed a new reservoir and a new eight-inch transmission line from the water treatment plant to Five Miles housing scheme, by way of the Bartica-Potaro road. The water company has also put in place, in Central Bartica, a gravity water feeder. The water company also took water supply for the first time to Branford Point, and commenced a similar intervention in Karrau. Also benefiting from improved water supply was Byderabo. GWI, at an estimated cost of $100M upgraded the water distribution system, and completed the installation of pipelines in the areas. For the first time, residents were able to receive potable water through their taps, Khirattie said. (GINA)
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Editor-In-Chief
Nigel Williams Editor
Godfrey Wray
Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com
Editorial Race Relations in the U.S. THE recent shooting deaths of Philando Castile in Minnesota and Alton Sterling in Louisiana, two black men by white police officers, have heightened concerns about the treatment of and regard for lives of Blacks/African-Americans by the police. Then, as persons were staging demonstrations in cities across America, protesting the police killings, a black man using a sniper rife, killed five police officers and injured nine persons, including seven officers. This attack took place on July 7 as the police were providing protection to demonstrators in Dallas, Texas, in response to the police the two black men. These matters have engaged the attention of all and sundry, from the highest political leadership as in President Barrack Obama to the man and woman in the street. Instructively, demonstrations calling for respect for black lives also see white involvement, carrying placards such as “Black Lives Matter,” and in white communities messages such as “White silence equates to violence, so speak out.” To say in the black community that there is increasing concern about their lives at the hands of the police is a justifiable statement. At a press conference dealing with the Dallas shooting, black surgeon Dr Brian Williams, who attended the white officers shot by the black military veteran of the Afghanistan war said, even though he does his best to show his respect for the police, he still worries for his personal safety when around officers in uniform. When fear for the police -- who by their functions have been established to maintain law and order which are underpinned by societal values and human rights -- exists and a person, regardless of his socio-economic status, carries the burden of being targeted because of race, deservedly should be of concern to all. Race relations in the United Sates (U.S.) dates back to the nation’s founding in what some has described as its “original sin”, i.e. the enslavement and decimation of the coloured community- Africans and native Americans- which remains in its DNA, and is still confronted on a daily basis inasmuch as laws and other institutions are established to eliminate and deal with it. In a society that prides itself on making decisions based on scientific evidence and responding to the needs, inclusive of cries of its people, the issues of race and police brutality have not escaped the attention of the President, the country’s first as an African-American. As President Obama often says in dealing with race, it is a complex issue that requires continuous work, and though the society has made progress, there remains ways to go to atone for this sin. He has also pushed back against claims by some that his ascension to office is tantamount to America being a post-racial society. And as blacks grapple with the issue of race and justifiably cry out for parity and respect in the society, some whites are also bound to ask the question, given the Dallas shooting, “Doesn’t white life matter, too?” The answer in both instances is a resounding yes. All lives matter and on both side of the divide the killings were
SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
Puruni small miners say being forced out by big concessionaire
Dear Editor, WE, the small miners at Puruni are very unhappy over the situation in the area. We spend a lot of time prospecting work-ground and when we find payable places we are being forced out. The big landowners in the area stopped all work over two weeks now in Sauri, Granny, and Chiney. We can-
not work and we have home bills to pay and we have to pay for excavators at the bank and the dealers. Over 50 excavators got stop- work orders in Puruni,thereby affecting over 100 dredges. They are telling us now that if we want to start back we have to pay $2 million, then seven ounces of gold every month. This is not economical. We think this is unfair because we found the gold and developed the place.
Conflict of Interest THE term conflict of interest (CoI) is widely used, yet many people are unaware of its meaning and significance. The Journal of Business Ethics defines conflict of interest as “A situation in which a person has a private or personal interest sufficient to appear to influence the objective exercise of his or her official duties as, say, a public official, an employee, or a professional.” This private or personal interest is often motivated by money, but can also arise from other factors such as love and ambition. It is important to take note of the word “situation” from the definition, as a CoI can be mistakenly bundled with corruption. For example, a lawyer in need of money is working with a client. A representative of the party that the client is in dispute with approaches the lawyer. The representative proposes to provide the lawyer with a large sum of money if the lawyer agrees to botch his client’s case. In this situation, the bribe offer creates a conflict of interest between official duty to the client and
personal duty to self. The action taken when faced with a CoI determines if the lawyer is corrupt. A CoI alone is not an improper act, but rather a natural phenomenon. It is how the CoI is dealt with that may be improper. In addition, an unaddressed conflict of interest can raise suspicion about whether the service provider is being impartial, which can place trust, loyalty, and integrity into question. In the aforementioned example, the lawyer chooses not to disclose the bribe offer with his client. The client later finds out that the lawyer was offered a bribe. As a result, the client can no longer trust the lawyer, even if the lawyer may have rejected the bribe. To further illustrate the nature of a CoI, we will look at another example. A basketball referee has an upcoming game between two high school teams. He notices that a member of one of the teams is his beloved niece. A conflict of interest is formed even though an improper act has not yet
We are asking for somebody to intervene for us. We cannot talk openly or we get special attention and we won’t have land nor money to fall back on. We are asking for help now, because nobody is looking out for the small miners. CONCERNED MINERS been committed. His official duty is to make fair calls during the game. However, he also has a personal duty to the happiness of his niece. If he referees the game, he may make unwarranted calls to benefit his niece’s team. On the other hand, in an overzealous attempt to display fairness, he may make unwarranted calls to hurt his niece’s team. Either way, his decisions are at risk of being subjective. Therefore, if the referee’s connection with his niece is well-known and he chooses to ignore the conflict of interest, trust may be lost and his job may be executed poorly. By looking at these examples, we know that a CoI itself is not unethical, but if dealt with incorrectly, a CoI can lead to suspicion of objectivity and even an improper act. When faced with a conflict of interest, one should identify it, disclose it, and remove oneself from the situation. Otherwise, the official duty and trust upheld by the service provider may be jeopardized. NICEL MOHAMED-HINDS 661 Escondido Rd Stanford, CA, 94305 Telephone: 305-484-4671
The Indian Action Committee will not be silenced nor intimidated Dear Editor, THE Indian Action Committee (IAC) has noted the response by Lincoln Lewis (SN and GC 13th August 2016) to the organisation’s letter to the Editor regarding President Granger’s statement and the proposed establishment of a communal lands commission which is supposed “to rectify the anomalies and resolve the conservancies [sic] which,
up to now, surround thousands of hectares of communal lands which were purchased in the Post- Emancipation village movement. “ The IAC will not be intimidated by this type of baseless attack and will not dignify the false assertions made by Lincoln Lewis. It seems as if the IAC has no right to query and articulate the concerns of its constituents as the organ-
senseless. But saying all lives matter has to go beyond the affirmative to that of action through institutional strengthening via laws, reforms and the races taking time to talk with each other as against talking past each other, being prepared to listen and empathise with the lens through which the other views the world, and where scepticism of the other exists work together to fix same. It is fair to say some efforts are being made to have such conversations. Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and major rival Bernie Sanders, both white, in addition to condemning the killings, calling for it to stop, have also called on white America to pay attention to what black America is saying. The interjection of these high- profile persons will aid in elevating and amplifying the issue and moving race relations to another level. The society has also called for the police to be held accountable and commitments from officials have been given. Former Republican President George W. Bush weighing in on the racial tension and polarisation at the memorial that followed the shooting, said, “Too often we judge other groups by their worst examples, while judging ourselves by our best
isation attempts to seek clarification on the legality of this proposed communal lands commission. The IAC will not be silenced nor be intimidated. Yours Sincerely, SAIRA ALLI Secretary, Indian Action Committee
intentions. And this has strained our bonds of understanding and common purpose.” America’s experiences on race relations are in many instances similar to ours. Even as Guyanese residing in the U.S. are encouraged to take all precautions when encountering and engaging the police, and as the U.S. is evidently working through this bump in human relations, we too, both in the diaspora and at home, can make these teachable moments. Guyana is still marred by racial prejudice and discrimination and it requires relentless and persistent efforts and institutional strengthening to eliminate them. Police profiling and brutality are also characteristics of the Guyana Police Force. Though in fairness, it seems as though deliberate efforts are presently being made to curb police excesses. Together we can learn from and build on both experiences for the benefit of countries and the world at large. It was the Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr who said injustice anywhere poses a threat to justice everywhere. Thus together we can aspire, must work, and shall achieve.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
Some in this gov’t want to use Critchlow Labour College for political mileage Dear Editor, THE issue of the Critchlow Labour College (CLC) grant/subvention existed since the college opened its doors. The money acquired from the State was always held in a special account and audited quarterly by the Auditor General’s Office. The Bharrat Jagdeo government had instructed Anand Goolsarran, then Auditor General, to audit the books of the college and was advised against same on the ground that the laws do not permit the State to look into the financial welfare of a non-state institution. The college is presently being advised by the Ministry of Education that in order to uplift the subvention, seven years of its audited statements have to be provided. Outside of this not being the business of the State, the seven years being asked for the government did not give any money to the college. Additionally, the CLC is now being asked to provide a budget for 2017 when the money for 2016 has not yet been received. It is the view that some operatives of this government want to use the college for political mileage. On one hand, the public is being told by the government
that the grant has been returned, given that it is placed in the National Estimates, yet at the same time the government has moved to make it difficult for the college to access same. Those laying out such conditions for disbursement are aware that the said condition was rejected by the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), the college’s owner, when same was put to it by the Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar administrations. The GTUC held a Special Meeting on a Saturday morning, and in attendance were President Granger, then Leader of the Opposition and shadow minister of Labour Basil Williams, now Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs. The case was placed before them, the principles outlined and explained, including the role the State plays in auditing state money in state and non-state institutions. At the conclusion of this engagement, both men urged the GTUC to remain steadfast in our position and told us that we would have their support. Today the GTUC and CLC are being told, through the conditions set, that they have to disregard fundamental principles. The CLC has two objectives. These are providing trade union education, and workers’ education. Ninety-eight percent
of the work the CLC does falls in the realm of workers’ education, since more than 80 percent of the persons who attend the college are not members of trade unions. The curriculum is also designed specifically to enable and build the capacity of citizens/ workers to perform in the work environment, including targeting those who deserve a second chance. The CLC, while owned by the GTUC, has never confined itself to providing only trade union education, similar to the Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC) which was originally owned by the GTUC, and is now owned by the State. The trade union movement is a major social partner in the society and plays leading roles in societal development, which our history will show. It is the first mass-based organisation in the 20th century and to its credit, had laid the foundation and fought for internal self-government, universal suffrage (one man, one vote), improved working and living conditions, fundamental rights and freedoms, minimum wage, etc. Forbes Burnham, Desmond Hoyte, Cheddi and Janet Jagan understood and respected our contributions to and roles in society in spite of differences on some policies, programmes
and governance styles. From the time the APNU+AFC took office, there has been no engagement at the policy level as to the direction and future of the college or the federated body; and our roles in partnering with the State in training and educating workers/citizens in the nation’s overall developmental agenda, including production and productivity. The society needs to note that history has shown in any environment where political leaders are deliberately moving to weaken and break up non-state institutions, use the people/taxpayers’ money as a bludgeon in an effort to silence non-state leaders, they will succeed in destroying society’s foundation, the people’s free-spiritedness and right to knowledge and self-determination, in pursuit of imposing their authoritarian instincts to control and dominate every space, what we do, think, and have access to. The college and trade union movement began witnessing such behaviour under Jagdeo and it continues today under a government, whose parties condemned it when they were in the opposition. LINCOLN LEWIS
Please take politics out of suicide prevention THE Caribbean Voice is deeply saddened by the fact that political posturing has trumped the need to save lives as “a parliamentary motion expressing concern for Guyana’s alarming suicide rate, quickly descended into a politicised debate marked by blame-throwing” (as one local media house described it). Indeed, a motion calling for urgent action to save lives was transformed into an argument as to who’s stealing whose work, as our smart politicians sought to score political points rather than come together to arrest the suicide epidemic that is stalking the land. The fact of the matter is that the PPP, while in government, aborted the one mechanism that was beginning to make a difference, the Gatekeepers Programme. And while the Pesticide Board had agreed to roll out an adaptation of the Shri Lankan Hazard Reduction Model to tackle pesticide suicide, that went nowhere after the change of Government last May. Also, we all know that the current government just completed one year in office but at the beginning of that year, the promises rained down while the only mechanism put in place so far is the suicide hotline that has neither been widely publicized nor is used to any significant extent by the population. We are still waiting for the roll-out of counsellors in schools, which, according to Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, was set to start earlier this year, in February. Ditto for the other measures talked about – the Gatekeepers’ Programme, a mechanism to address pesticide suicide, implementation of the Mental Health
Plan and so on. So it befuddles the mind that our politicians are quarrelling about who’s stealing whose thunder, while suicide continues to be a ‘norm’ with at least 15 so far for August, of which at least eight were not reported in the media! Perhaps more befuddling however, is this constant urge to re-invent the wheel when there are already tried and tested strategies, measures and best practices that can be adapted to suit the Guyana social landscape. This constant re-inventing, which always seems to be arrested mid-stream, eats up financial and other resources, time and efforts that can significantly help in tackling the range of mental health and social issues that stalk the land. Furthermore, given that the call for collaboration echoed by both sides of the house, one would have thought that our political leaders would put heads together and come up with a plan whose implementation would reflect the urgency of necessary action. One option would have been to send the bill to committee to thrash out something acceptable at a bipartisan level that would not water down the necessary mechanisms for suicide prevention. Another suggestion would be to set up a broad-based committee that includes the government, opposition, civil society and NGO stakeholders to rework the motion and have it jointly sponsored by a member of the gov’t and a member of the opposition. Meanwhile, the process of collaboration can start immediately with the only other thing both sides agreed on – decriminalizing attempted suicide. We call upon the relevant ministry to draft the necessary legislation and
lay it in parliament ASAP and we request the opposition to give full support, so that this archaic law can be taken off the books. Given the spate of murder/suicide/attempted suicide and of youth suicide and attempted suicide over the past few months, addressing violence in general and suicide and abuse in particular, are becoming increasingly urgent imperatives. Thus we sincerely hope that the government, especially the relevant ministries, will immediately begin to transform rhetoric into action and roll out the various plans and measures that have been propagated over the last year or so. And we also hope that efforts would seriously be made to include the NGOs that are actually bending their backs to make a difference, so that they can be able to extend and expand their work, especially in the rural areas and countryside, where the need is greatest. To protest that resources are not available to do what needs to be done would be so facetious, given the almost one billion dollars spent on a park used for the Jubilee celebration and the additional billions spent on the many-faceted, lavish manifestations of this celebration. Surely, our government cannot argue that partying is more critical than saving lives and empowering people. On another note, we were so happy to notice that self-esteem was on the menu for a training programme for young ladies held recently. While the news article did not mention it, we also hope coping skills was included. However, we want to point out -- as we have done before -- that self-esteem and coping skills must be included in all training pro-
grammes, anywhere, especially for the young, since it is evident that lack of these two skill sets significantly contribute to both suicide and abuse. We also re-emphasize that any and all such training programmes must not be one-off, but should be taken countrywide, to have a sustained, national effect. And speaking of collaboration, The Caribbean Voice and the 25-plus NGO partners, welcome the endorsement of Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan for “Voices Against Violence National Candlelight Vigil” set for World Suicide Prevention Day, September 10. We hope that other ministries and even President Granger will find it possible to also endorse this vigil, which aims to bring communities together to harness efforts for social action, and to urge all communities to get involved. To date, over 25 vigils have been confirmed in almost all the regions, and we expect this figure to more than double by the time September 10 comes around. Meanwhile, we also urge communities and all organizations to band together and plan vigils in communities across Guyana. For further information, clarification, assistance and to have vigils mapped and publicized, please call Bibi at 621-6111 or 223-2637, Pandit Deodat at 627-4432, Keshni Rooplall at 697-9968, Nazim S Hussain at 644-1152, Dolly Singh at 266-5617. Send email to bibiahamad1@hotmail. com, keshni.rooplall@yahoo.com, deodatpersaud25@yahoo.com or caribvoice@ aol.com. THE CARIBBEAN VOICE
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The President’s challenge to the African-Guyanese community and organizations: The beginning of a New Paradigm? LAST Sunday, for the fourth consecutive year, President Granger delivered the keynote address at the Cuffy250’s annual State of the African-Guyanese Forum. Since 2013, when the organization was formed, Cuffy 250 has been bringing African-Guyanese together at this gathering to discuss the state of the community. This year’s gathering came against the backdrop of Guyana’s 50th independence anniversary, but as the president reminded the audience, it also comes within the second year of the United Nation’s Decade for Peoples of African Descent. The president correctly observed that after 20 months, the African- Guyanese organizations have not done anything significant in relation to the Unite Nations declaration. He reminded those gathered that this declaration followed a previous declaration of 2011 as the international year for Peoples of African
Descent. In making these declarations, the United Nations has concluded that peoples of African descent “represent a distinct group whose human rights must be promoted and protected.” The UN Secretary- General went on to say that “we must remember that peoples of African descent are among the most affected by racism. Too often, they face denial of basic rights such as access to quality health care and education.” The UN obviously arrived at its conclusion on the basis of the experience of slavery and its continued effects on African-descended peoples. Many Black scholars and activists have long argued that slavery has had debilitating consequences for that community; that the worsening condition of the community across the world is largely the result of structural barriers arising out of slavery. On the other hand, others have contended that the effect of slavery is overplayed by Blacks and is often used as a mask for
the community’s failure to lift itself to the level of other groups. It is tempting to buy in to the latter argument, partly because it is an easy conclusion that does not require its proponents to grapple with the linkages between slavery and the contemporary world. There is an understandable haste to quickly move on from slavery and to deny Africans the opportunity to make their case for reparative justice. The ideology and practice of racism are derived from slavery and we now know that an institution could decline, but the socio-economic, political and cultural ideologies it spawned continue long after. This is what the United Nations has finally officially recognized and urged action against. We in Guyana have always been wishy-washy about anything that has to do with race, particularly at the level of officialdom and among the elites of all ethnic groups. We often hear as a rebuke to those who engage in the discourse
about racism, constructions such as “we all belong to the human race.” Such a construction displays an utter lack of understanding of the meaning of the concept of race. Human beings are not naturally races; race and racial classifications were created initially to justify chattel slavery and its attendant accumulation of wealth for the enslavers. Over time it became universally accepted by Europeans as an inherent principle of interpreting and explaining human behaviour. In other words, race is a socio-political and economic construct that has been biologized to give it natural meaning. The president at the Cuffy250 Forum committed his government to honouring the UN initiative on peoples of African descent and challenged African-Guyanese to come up with what he calls “a plan of action.” This is a very bold but necessary move by a Head of Government and State in an acutely polarized country. Already,
individuals and organizations of other groups have begun to question whether the President is going down the road of ethnic favouritism. Such questions have to be answered, but in the first place they need not even arise. But, in Guyana we repeat the same narrow narratives with the same results with scant consideration for historical truths. In the end, our ethnically plural society will survive and prosper when all of its groups feel a sense of security and when equality and justice become operational in social relations and most importantly in the macro and micro-policies of our governments. The President should be congratulated for facing this issue head-on. He may well have planted the seeds of a new governance paradigm in Guyana, whereby governments ceases the frustrating practice of skirting around issues of ethnicity and race as far as policy is concerned. His challenge to the African- Guyanese organiza-
tions to come up with a plan of action and his chiding of them for being missing in action over the last 20 months were examples of “tough love,” that hopefully resonated with them. In my own presentation at the Forum, I also called on African-Guyanese to begin to advocate for their own security and not sit down and wait for government to come to them, even if it’s a government for which they voted. This call would be elaborated on in my next column. Dr. David Hinds, a political activist and commentator, is an Associate Professor of Political Science and Caribbean and African Diaspora Studies at Arizona State University. More of his writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his website www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics.com. Send comments to dhinds6106@ aol.com
Authorities look to ensure NA hostel caters for students ‒ Facility now housing adults, and ‘all kinds of men’ THE Amerindian Hostel in New Amsterdam will be renamed Students’ Hostel, as it extends itself to cater for additional children being drawn from the Canje River, and who have received places at secondary schools in the Berbice township. Consequently, an additional $9M has been proposed within the 2017 regional budget to extend the current edifice situated at Lot 36 Mud Flat,Stanleytown. Regional Chairman Permaul Armogan told this newspaper that $2M had been expended on rehabilitation works during the current year after reports of poor living conditions were
highlighted at an earlier statutory meeting . “It is the policy of the government to ensure that every student, every child is accommodated properly, in order that they have a good education. We have to ensure that we have suitable accommodation for these students.” Further, the chairman is proposing that an alternative living arrangement be made for the adults coming out of the Berbice River, as there seemed to be some amount of difficulty controlling their behaviour. “We will be looking for another building someplace else, where those coming from the Berbice River
can be accommodated and leaving the current building to serve students exclusively from the Berbice River and Baracara,” remarked Armogan. Regional Councilor, Patricia Lynch, at the recently held statutory meeting had stated that the New Amsterdam Amerindian Hostel had transformed itself from primarily being a residence which was intended for secondary school students from the riverain and hinterland areas to a building which now houses permanent families, and “all kinds of men.” Further, she told the council that the building was also intended to accommodate persons on the lower
flat, who would transport their agricultural produce and logs to the New Amsterdam township, and would need somewhere to stay for a few days until their respective transactions were conducted. “However, persons are staying longer and are conducting all kinds of business, even as the hostel’s operations are being financed by the Region Six administration.” During a visit, caretaker Sybil Morris said initially the hostel, which is housed on the upper flat of the two-storey building, catered for 12 students, with an equal amount of boys and girls, from the riverain
areas, who had been awarded places at secondary schools in New Amsterdam. At the inception, the reconstructed building was managed by the New Amsterdam Lions Club, under the presidency of Mavis Smith for four years, before it was handed over to the Regional Administration which was responsible for supplying food items. Subsequently, a captain was appointed to manage its affairs before the selection of House Mothers, during which period parents had the responsibility to pay for their children’s upkeep. That money was intended to pay a salary to the House Mother. But some parents failed to honour their responsibilities and their children were
sent home. Other students were forced to return home due to a “spiritual attack” at the hostel, and yet others sought alternative living arrangements in the township. Morris noted that it was a while before students returned. Permission had to be sought and received by the Regional Administration. On this occasion, parents opted to stay with their secondary school-aged children, and in the process, brought along younger children who were placed at primary and nursery schools in the town. Although the upper flat was designed to accommodate 12 students, along with a House Mother, the population has exceeded the expected number, resulting in rifts amongst families.
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Emancipation is a continuous process AS the nation observes 178 years of freedom from chattel slavery, it needs to be said that emancipation is a continuous process and adaptation to values need to be considered based on what takes place today. As the world continues to grow, those who think that because human beings were subjected to horrible conditions in the past, that they have a right, when put in position to do better, to feel they are doing the citizens a favour, they ought not to have a place in government. In view of the many ills committed against citizens -irrespective of race and other diversity -- by the Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar regimes, the APNU+AFC government has a responsibility to correct and avoid repeating same. Corruption and other forms of lawlessness have been like a cancer eating away the soul of this nation and denying its citizens/ workers deserving opportunities to decent standards of living and working condi-
tions. With the PPP/C having been so long in office, persons have come to accept same as a culture in governance and how they should be treated. What we are witnessing too is that with the APNU+AFC entering office, it does not mean that good governance is being practised and the people are treated with deserving respect, and is also prone to engage in similar misconduct like their predecessors. Growth in this society requires acceptance, that if it was wrong under the PPP, it cannot be right under the APNU+AFC. If we seriously desire and seek change in the manner in which the business of governance is done, it will be achieved only when persons change from accepting because it is happening under the party/ group I put in office, the wrong becomes right. Wrong is wrong and right is right and to bring about what is right the people must stand up, speak out, and condemn today what they condemned yesterday.
The issue of the storage bond for pharmaceuticals that the Cabinet made a decision to review ought to be of concern as to the way it is being handled. The intent of any review is to make sure that not only the truth is being told and justice is being done, but also appears to have been done. The cabinet made the decision to rent the bond. When questions are raised and an inquiry/investigation is commissioned as to the circumstances that led to the decision, the participants in the decision cannot review their own work. It requires an independent group to conduct such an investigation to bring credibility to the findings. The matter here is not whether the Minister of Public Health misled the National Assembly; it is about the management of the people’s money. The recommendation of the cabinet sub-committee is ludicrous and needs to be revisited. The actions and recommendation by the Prime Minister, Minister of Natural Resources, and Minister of State speak to a
group who believe that the people’s money can be treated anyhow and it is enough for the minister involved to apologise to the people. It is a double standard to engage in independent inquiries in matters on the stewardship of past administrations and those outside of cabinet, but when it comes to members of cabinet, the people’s business is treated as their personal properties. Any credible inquiry into the bond issue has to be done by an independent state agency and the police should have been called in. The failure to do so raises doubts and suspicions about government’s intent and commitment to upholding modern standards of governance. The issue of Guyanese workers who were wantonly dismissed, suspended and continuously discriminated against by the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) Russian management, while Ministers Volda Lawrence, Keith Scott, Raphael Trotman and Joe Harmon’s actions are sending signals of tacit sup-
port is placing the society in a backward step. The nation is reminded that respecting universal rights and laws are tenets that informed the struggle for and achievement of emancipation. The continued contempt by this administration for the High Court’s decision to re-issue the correct letter which will enforce Section 1 of the Labour Act is a wrong we must collectively work to make right. Apart from the commitment given to respect the courts once elected, instructively this government comsists of lawyers who, in private practice, would not support such treatment of their clients. Workers in the sugar industry represented by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) are today confronted with a GuySuCo management that is not prepared to engage the union on issues that affect the workers’ welfare. It is not lost on me the held perceptions as to the conduct of GAWU during the PNC and PPP administrations. However, should
we lose sight of the importance of upholding fundamental principles, a vicious cycle will be created, in that we would see one government discriminating against one section of society, and when another government comes to office discriminating against another section. These stated references are not freedom but retrograde sets and other forms of oppression. Where Jagdeo and Ramotar held a symposium to address discrimination and the rule of law and have no moral leg to stand on, by the same extension it gives the David Granger/Moses Nagamootoo government no moral leg to engage in similar misconduct. Addressing and correcting deficiencies in society require that spirit of emancipation to be continuously imbued in our people to ensure every Guyanese hold elected leaders accountable and pull them out of the “massa” management syndrome they are bent on retaining, in order that we can collectively be free.
Albouystown cross-dresser charged Cutlass-wielding young miner accused with robbing GT Chinese store One of the men who dressed as women to execute a robbery at a city Chinese store has been charged. Kurt Simeron, 21, was on Friday released on $70,000 bail for allegedly robbing a popular Chinese-owned store on Regent Street. Simeron, of 21 James and Hogg Streets, Albouystown, appeared before city Magistrate Leron Daly and pleaded not guilty to a charge of robbery with assault. Particulars of the charge alleged that on Tuesday, August 9, at Regent Street, Simeron together with others, assaulted and
robbed Zhano Zhong Wu of US$200, G$30,000 along with an I-Phone 4 valued G$60,000. The labourer was represented by attorney-at-law Dexter Todd, who requested that his client be released on reasonable bail, since he did not pose a flight risk. Police Prosecutor Kevin London did not object to Simeron being granted his pre-trial liberty. Magistrate Daly ordered him to return to court on August 31. According to reports, last Tuesday, Simeron along with three other men clad in women’s attire, entered the ‘Good Life Store’ on Regent Street
and began inspecting items. Two of the men had handguns and demanded that everyone in the store “go on the ground.” The men then relieved the store-owner of a quantity of money along with a cellular phone. After the robbery, the men broke off into groups of two as they stormed out of the store. One group fled in a yellow motor car, while the others attempted to make good their escape on a Honda CG motorcycle However, Simeron was allegedly nabbed by a public-spirited person as he was about to mount the motorcycle.
of attempted murder
Kurt Simeron
A MINER of White Water Village, North West District, was Friday remanded to prison when he appeared before city Magistrate Leron Daly on a charge of attempting to murder a man by chopping him with a cutlass. Henry Charles, 23, was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge. The allegation is that on Wednesday, August 10, at Toroparu Backdam, Cuyuni River, Charles maliciously wounded Ronal Edwards. Police Prosecutor Inspector Kevin London, did not
relate the facts to the court. However, he noted that the victim had received several chops to the back of his neck. The magistrate upheld the prosecutor’s objection to bail and remanded the accused. The case will continue before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on September 8. According to reports, both men are employed as pork-knockers for a mining operation in the Toroparu Backdam. On the day in question, the miners had a heated argument when Charles armed himself and inflicted the blows.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
Broomes commits to working with GPSU to iron out GGMC issues THE Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE) has, through Minister Simona Broomes, committed to working with the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) in an effort to resolve ongoing issues that concern the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). Minister Broomes met officials of the GPSU on Thursday at the Ministry of Natural Resources on Brickdam and declared that, in all negotiations, there must be “full respect” displayed between the union and workers. “I am not going to say that we will always agree… but there must be full respect,” the Minister said, as she urged the GPSU to “spread the message of pub-
lic service commitment” to the country and people of the country, so that public servants can understand that their commitment is not to a political party, but to the people of Guyana. “I am committed to working with you, even when we disagree. You, the workers, are the most important pillars in the Ministry, as you are the ones to implement policy,” she stressed. The Minister has said that while there will be disagreements between the Ministry and the Union over industrial relations’ matters, good principles of labour relations must prevail. In 2015, GGMC workers had downed tools and protested for better compensation. The workers had called
Region Seven councillors want hydropower project included in next budget A HYDROPOWER project for Region Seven is one of the major proposals being made by the Upper Mazaruni councillors for inclusion in the 2017 National Budget, Region Seven Chairman Gordon Bradford has said. The proposal by the region’s Councillors is in keeping with government’s plan to create a green economy, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported. Bartica, located in the region, received township status earlier this year, and is pegged to be the model of a green town. President David Granger, in October 2015, announced a five-point plan aimed at creating the green economy. The plan includes promotion of sustainable exploitation of the country’s natural resources. During an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Bradford noted that the aim of the project is to improve the standard of living of residents of the Upper
Mazaruni, as hydropower would benefit several communities. “A hydro project, we feel, would supply Paruima, and maybe even Kamarang and Waramadong, with electricity; and so, once we get that on board, that is really going to boost development,” the chairman cited. Further, the chairman pointed out that once the hydropower project comes on board, it would not only be beneficial in providing electricity, but would also have additional spinoff benefits, including agro-processing. “In Paruima and other villages, the land is very fertile, and so the agricultural output is enormous and the potential is enormous,” the chairman stated. GINA noted that $200M have already been secured by government to set up a hydropower facility in Moco Moco, Region Nine, and work is expected to commence by the end of 2016.
on the management of the GGMC to pay them or be prepared to have continued industrial action. The strike action began in 2014 for increased wages and salaries after the management failed to reach an agreement on the matter. In December of that year, the union had acquired an 8 per cent interim increase for the workers, but negotiations for the previous year and 2014 were not finalised. The GPSU had demanded as much as 35 per cent increase in wages and salaries, a demand the Commission did not seem comfortable with. However, there was eventually a resolution to both 2013 and 2014 issues. Minister of Natural Re-
sources and the Environment, Raphael Trotman, has recently signed off on the workers’ payout for last year. Workers will receive a month and a half salary award for 2015. “This shows that, from the highest level, there is no intention to stymie the process or withhold anything from the workers,” Minister Broomes said. However, she said that for this mutual respectability to thrive and prosper, each side must live up to its responsibility. Minister Broomes called for continued dialogue on the matter, and noted that the union must not only meet the Minister or representatives of the ministry when there are problems. She called on the union
to be the bridge between the Ministry and the workers, so that all are aware of their rights and equally aware of their responsibilities and obligations. Broomes said her Ministry can serve as an example to other ministries in how to proceed with labour disputes. “We can be a model for other Ministries, to show what decent labour relations could be,” she said. Meanwhile, Gregory Gaspar, Branch Chairman of GPSU Branch No. 72, said the Union fully embraces the concept that, as public servants, workers have a very important role to play. He said the Union has a huge role to play in the progress of the Commission, and have been looking at a strategic
plan for the organisation. Dennis English of the GPSU said the engagement between the Minister and the Union representatives is appreciated, and he noted that, over the years, that is what was demanded by the union. “We strive at GPSU to be reasonable in our deliberations, embracing the doctrine of alternative dispute resolution…” English added. Present at the meeting were Gregory Gaspar, Branch Chairman of GPSU Branch No. 72; Sandrene Abrams, Floor Member GPSU Branch No. 72; Dennis English, GPSU; Unata De Freitas, the GGMC/ GPSU workers’ representative; and Beatrice Roberts-Austin, GGMC/GPSU Branch Secretary.
NAREI aiming to increase breadfruit cultivation THE National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) recently acquired over 1,000 breadfruit seedlings to increase production of the plant locally. The expansion in breadfruit production is in keeping with government’s agenda to create a green economy, Dr. Oudho Homenauth, NAREI’s Chief Executive Officer, has said. In an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA) on Thursday, Dr. Homenauth revealed that the Institute will be expanding its operations at Bartica, Region Seven, to include at least 30 acres of breadfruit plantation. Breadfruit seedlings would be distributed to farmers. Dr. Homenauth related that on Wednesday, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder and Permanent Secretary George Jervis, during a visit to NAREI, inspected the seedlings and were updated on the progress of the planned expansion project. Acquisition of the different varieties of breadfruit seedlings is a direct result of a call made by President David Granger at last year’s National Tree Day in Bartica, Dr. Homenauth reflected. He noted that the President has been encouraging persons to venture into the ag-
Agriculture Minister Noel Holder, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, George Jervis, and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), Dr. Oudho Homenauth, examine breadfruit seedlings during a visit to the institution
ricultural sector to promote entrepreneurship. Breadfruit, which is consumed mostly as chips or ‘boiled and fried’ by Guyanese, could be an alternative to plantain chips. A small number of enterprises are processing breadfruit into flour. According to Dr. Homenauth, breadfruit is grown in Guyana on a small scale, mainly by farmers or residents for personal consumption. The limited availability of planting materials, lack of access to market, limited land availability, flooding, and little knowledge on how
to cultivate this crop are all factors that affect its production locally. He added that breadfruit is primarily grown in a mixed cropping system. The average age of the crop is 20 years. It is found predominantly in the Pomeroon River (Region Two); Haslington and Victoria (Region Four), No.7 and Ithaca (Region Five); Bartica (Region Seven); and Linden (Region 10) He noted that already government is in partnership with the private sector to promote the use of breadfruit. These efforts are being made within communities,
schools, and other civil bodies. These energies have resulted in the Carnegie School of Home Economics, through collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), embarking on a workshop aimed at highlighting the benefits of breadfruit. The African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) has promoted breadfruit as a main dish at the 174th Emancipation celebration, and highlighted the benefits of the said fruit; while at the Linden Town Day, different dishes made from breadfruit were presented by students. Planting materials for breadfruit are not readily available, owing to the botanical characteristics of the crop and the lack of knowledge to propagate it. Currently, efforts are being made by NAREI to educate farmers and to provide planting materials. There are various advantages for farmers interested in the cultivation of breadfruit. These include an intervention by the government which will allow farmers to access planting materials and have the support of NAREI, and available market due to a current demand for breadfruit locally for processing. (GINA)
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
Towards a Good Life in a Green Economy
SUSTAINABILITY AND THE GOOD LIFE
By Rear Admiral (Rtd.) Gary A. R. Best Presidential Advisor on the Environment
THE term sustainable development has become quite common in the development context over the past decades. In fact, only recently in 2015, the world, including Guyana , signed onto the UN Sustainble Development Goals (SDGs), the UN successor initiative to the Millenium Development Goals, which is intended to advance basic living standards worldwide by ending poverty by the year 2030. We contend that in order to meet the seventeen (17) SDGs and the promised good life, a clear understanding of the general concepts surrounding sustainability is a necessary imperative. A good place to commence such an understanding is the The Brundtland
Report, which defines sustainable development as “Development that meets the need of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”(Our Common Future 1987). This inter and intra-generational concept is also captured within Articles 14; 25; 29; 36 and 38A of the Guyana Constitution, when read together. The Bruntland Report further indicated that the concept of sustainable development does imply relative limits on the ability of the biosphere to absorb anthropogenic actions. How do we, therefore, break down this definition into meaningful actions? Sutherland (2008) suggests that in order to operationalise the Bruntland definition of sustainability, it is necessary for states to understand that the systems we design and operate for development must not diminish our natural resources or affect our ecological life cycles. In other words, as we industralize our natural capital, whether through all forms of mining or agroforestry, care and attention must be taken to protect the environment. Sutherland also suggests that the three-pillar approach provides a better foundation in understanding and achieving sustainability. He defines it thusly: ‘Sustainability recognizes the interdependence of eco-
“
logical, social, and a significant input economic systems Mr Best is a retired Rear Admiral and former Chief in poverty eradi– the three pillars However, of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force. He is an cation. of sustainability’ there is a down Attorney at Law and the Presidential Advisor on side, in that most . We submit that the three-pillar ap- the Environment. He also holds Masters Degrees from research is expenprioach speaks to sive and follows an inter-sectoral the University of the West Indies and the University of a t r i c k l e - d o w n approach to sus- London. His research areas include climate change gov- procedure which taianble develop- ernance, climate change finance international relations i n v o l v e s j u s t i ment, and in that fications by reregard, opportuni- and environmental law. searchers and, at ties for avoiding times, political terdisciplinary collaboration A key element in attainmisaligned develinterference in opment are provided. The among the key sectors such aing sustainability by devel- its transmission. Equally writer Pfahl (2005), on the as science, the environment, oping states is the degree of important to the developed other hand, identifies so- ecology, ecosystems, biodi- technology transfer enjoyed nations, is the issue of intelcial, economic and envi- versity and economics. Sus- by these states. Developed lectual property rights and ronmental elements as the tainable development must nations are mandated to how such rights would be three core elements of sus- therefore be seen as wider provide financial resources protected in the transfer of tainability, which actually than that comtemplated by for the transfer of technol- technology arrangements. mirrors Sutherland’s view. Bruntland. In Guyana’s con- ogy required by developing As we in Guyana pursue However, the three- pillar text, technology and science states, which will ultimate- opportunities to benefit from approach is not without should be starters at the ly determine the extent to technology transfer, so too dissent. In this regard, Rob- primary level of education which developing states, must we provide the legisinson (2009) believes that, so as to embed them into the including Guyana, are able lative framework to protect in the end, it may be good education system. Widening to meet their commitments intellectual property at the politically to have some im- the three-pillar approach, under the United Nations national and international precision in the definition of Sneddon et al. (2006) offer Convention on Climate levels. sustainability. In Robinson’s a pluralistic perspective. In Change (UNFCCC 1992). Sustainability offers a view, governments actually their view, ‘A pluralistic, Knowledge from research solid foundation for Guyprefer the term sustainable critical approach to sus- can be very beneficial to ana to pursue its green development as opposed tainable development offers sustainability and this can be development pathway and to sustainability, because fresh interpretations of in- achieved through the trans- provide the good life. A the former highlights the tractable environment-de- fer- of-technology approach. lot remains to be seen and dynamics between the en- velopment dilemmas’. Em- Sustainable development fleshed out as we move vironment and poverty as bracing pluralism,in the can also benefit from part- forward, particularly in articulated in the Bruntland context of sustainable devel- nerships formed under the determining the policy opment involves ecological UNFCCC in pursuit of the context of the green econReport. However, even as we economics, freedom-orient- Agenda 21 goals. This type omy pathway. Is the green look at ways and means to ed development, delibera- of transfer is most suitable eonomy pathway a subset integrate the environment tive democracy and political to agriculture and manu- of sustainability or is it into development or devel- ecology. We contend that facturing entities. Quite ex- perceived in the reverse? opment into environment, such an approach will enable pectedly, the Report of the An examination of this Mc Michael et al. (2003) a focus on national human World Summit on Sustain- dichotomy will be the subremind us that the challenge communities and contribute able Development held in ject of another article. and eventual success of to the enhancement of jus- Johannesburg in 2002, de- (Comments can be sent to sustainability depend on a tice and equity across our scribed knowledge transfer towardsagoodlife@gmail. to the developing nations as com) vigorous and intensive in- nation.
Ruling in Old England shallow grave murder Monday By George Barclay AFTER the prosecution closed its case in the Old England “Shallow Grave” murder retrial on Thursday, defence counsel Hewley Griffith began making a “no-case” submission in the absence of the jury. Justice James BovellDrakes, who conducted the voir dire (a trial within a trial), which ended on Thursday, has reserved his ruling for Mon-
day at 1.15 pm. Justice Bovell-Drakes had earlier held a voir dire to determine the voluntariness of a caution statement the accused, Lakeraj Fredericks, had allegedly given to the police, detailing how Clifton Bonus, called “Mutts,” was shot dead and was buried in a shallow grave in a community in the Upper Demerara River in June, 2011. The judge found this voir dire statement to be voluntarily given to the police.
Fredricks, 27, is accused of the murder of Mutts, who was shot and killed on June 3, 2011 following a row over marijuana plants. He has pleaded not guilty. Before the second voir dire in relation to legal arguments in the no-case submission got underway on Wednesday, the prosecution, conducted by Siand Dhurjon and Shonette Austin, called to the stand their last witness at the main trial, former po-
liceman Ronald Denny. Now a gold miner, Denny had, in 2011, been a policeman at Mackenzie Police Station. Questioned by Dhurjon, he told the judge and jury that as a result of information received, he and a party of policemen went to the densely forested Old England backdam where, on arrival, he observed three camps and met a fellow by the name of Tyson, who told him something. As a consequence, he
went some distance away, where he saw some branches and wood covering a spot. With the use of a shovel, he dug to a depth of about 2 ½ feet and found the body of a male. It was bloated and the skin was peeling off. The witness said he noticed two circular wounds on the head, which he suspected to be gunshot wounds. The body was escorted from the backdam to the Mackenzie Hospital, where Dr. Carlos
pronounced the person dead. The witness said it took him between 45 minutes and an hour to remove the corpse from the shallow grave. Following Denny’s testimony, the no-case submission began. The main trial continues on Monday afternoon, when the judge will rule in the nocase matter. Attorneys-at-Law Lawrence Harris and Lawrence Griffith are defending.
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GHRA concerned about ‘sweeping powers’ of SARA director, deputy
‒ says ‘the Director of SARA is effectively a political commissar exercising enormous powers’ THE Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) is calling on the government, through the Ministry of Legal Affairs, to ensure that there is political consensus on the State Assets Recovery Bill. A public consultation was held last Thursday at the Pegasus Hotel, and concerns have been raised about the powers conferred upon the director and deputy director of the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA). In a statement to the media on Saturday, the GHRA said it is concerned about the impartial image of SARA. “The sweeping powers available to the Director of the Agency and the manner of his or her appointment” is of great concern to the GHRA. Relative to the powers, the GHRA believes that the Commissioner of Police, the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Head of Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), the Bank of Guyana, private banks, and the Chairperson of the Guyana Gold Board are just a few public and private entities that are required to comply with the requests of the Di-
rector of SARA. “Rather than the established procedure whereby other agencies provide the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) with information on which it can act, the new Bill requires the opposite: The GRA must provide information on which the SARA will act. The Director of SARA is effectively a political commissar exercising enormous powers,” the GHRA stated. The GHRA said it is not challenging the wisdom in the accumulation of powers, it is more or less recommending safeguards against “the ample mischief such an accumulation invites.” Noting that the requirement that the National Assembly, by a simple majority and on the recommendation of the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments, would appoint a Director and Deputy Directory of SARA, and that both officers may be removed from office by the same combination of Parliamentary Committee on Appointments, GHRA says this is partisan. “With the Coalition Government enjoying a majority both in the Appointments Committee and in Parlia-
ment, as well as holding the Chairmanship of the Appointments’ Committee, this is effectively a Coalition Government appointment dressed up as bi-partisan,” the GHRA has said. The GHRA says it is supportive of SARA being a parliamentary agency, but the proposed procedure as stipulated in the draft legislation is not “sufficiently ring-fenced from partisan political influence.” As such, it is the belief of the Human Rights Agency that appointment and removal by a twothirds parliamentary majority would demonstrate genuine bi-partisanship. “It took a decade for the Procurement Committee to come up with a list of five people acceptable to both sides, and the end result is a far cry from the brave pronouncements made at the beginning of that decade (regarding) the quality of persons to be appointed. The SAR Bill effectively concedes the unattainability of bi-partisan support by opting to create the Agency on a partisan basis.” The GHRA noted the explanation in the Explan-
atory Memorandum of the draft Bill, which speaks to giving effect to the non-conviction-based recovery provisions of the UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), but said similar attention was not paid to the “strong provisions for Governments to promote the participation of society in these matters.” Article 13 of the UNCAC states that each country should take appropriate measures within its means, and in accordance with fundamental principles of its domestic law, to promote the active participation of individuals and groups outside the public sector, such as civil society, non-governmental organizations and community-based organizations, in the prevention of, and fight against, corruption. “The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) is urging the Coalition Government not to sacrifice the powerful platform of transparency, accountability and anti-corruption on the altar of partisan politics.” Meanwhile, the Association has said that while the “narrowness” of the Bill can
be defended by government on technical grounds, lack of an enabling governance context is disappointing. This has been described as “a case of promising much and delivering little.” The GHRA believes that though the document is a clearly written legislation, the draft legislation is “not the promised anti-corruption platform which was so central to the coalition’s electoral campaign.” As such, the GHRA has submitted its views on the legislation, which speaks to technical specifics of the legislation, introducing new concepts into local law and practice, as well as what it believes to be “over-arching political and contextual issues critical to achieving its aim.” Additionally, the body believes that if the Bill is passed without a “serious effort to obtain genuine broadbased political support, it risks prolonging ethnically polarized politics.” Broad-based political support requires two things to occur, the first being the broadening of the scope of the Bill from Asset recovery alone to a more substantial
incorporation of the aims of the UNAC, and the second involves creation of a mechanism that includes civic and private sector forces into the process of promoting the Bill. “Anything less will inevitably prompt the question whether ‘anti-corruption’ for the ruling party ever meant more than pursuing those now in opposition for corrupt acts committed while in power.” The State Assets Recovery Bill 2016 intends to give effect to the non-conviction-based asset recovery recommendations contained in the United Nations Convention Against Corruption 2003, which was ratified by the Government of Guyana in April 2008. As such, the Bill seeks to fight against unlawful conduct and corrupt practices in relation to property and other assets owned by the State, or in which the State has an interest. The granting of a civil recovery order vests in the State ownership of any property subject to the order. The new legislation is to be placed before the National Assembly after it resumes sittings from recess.
Integrity Commission likely to be fully functional by year-end ‒ President Granger By Ariana Gordon THE Integrity Commission is likely to become fully functional by the end of this year, President David Granger has said. The President disclosed that government is in the process of creating functional laws and organizational structure to enable the Integrity Commission to function effectively in discharging its mandate. During recording of the Ministry of the Presidency’s weekly televised programme “the Public Interest”, the President told reporters that which was inherited from the former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration is “unworkable.” Though he could not provide a specific timeline as to when the Integrity Commission would become functional, the President said there
has to be the “tightening” of the legislation to ensure that those who are found guilty of committing illegal acts while in public office are prosecuted. “We are working on the legislation; it will be brought to cabinet, and I expect that before the end of this year there will be a functioning Integrity Commission,” said President Granger. The President told reporters that, under the previous administration, the Integrity Commission was a “poorly funded, poorly administered [and] dysfunctional organisation.” “We are going to create functional laws -- functional organisation structure -- and I expect that by the end of this year, when Parliament resumes in October, we’d be able to bring that legislation before the National Assembly. Give us time,” he
admonished. President Granger likened the functioning of the Integrity Commission in the past to that of a post office, where persons submitted their returns but no action was taken. “There was a perception that the PPP was using the Integrity Commission as a means, rather than (of) preventing corruption, of checking people’s personal finances,” said the President. Asked whether he sees an overlapping of responsibilities or functions between the Integrity Commission and the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), the Head of State said he does not. He explained that the functions of the two entities are entirely different, in that the Integrity Commission is a constitutional body that requires certain categories of public officers to submit returns. At a policy making level and level
of officialdom, it is meant to oversee the behaviour of public officials mainly. SOCU’s role, on the other hand, he explained, is much wider and is largely associated with money laundering. “It deals with the banking system, commercial transactions, [and] other officers from different companies or corporations. There are two different levels; anybody can be reported to SOCU who is accused of money laundering…but that would not be the business of the Integrity Commission.” The Integrity Commission Act was assented to on the 24th September 1997. It provides for the establishment of the Integrity Commission, and makes provisions for the purpose of securing the integrity of persons in public life. The Act also provides for the appointment of a Chairman to head the Commission,
not less than two (2) and not more than four (4) other members of the Commission, a Secretary to oversee the day-to-day work of the Commission, and other officers for the proper functioning of the Commission. The Chairman should be a person who is or was qualified to be a Puisne Judge of the High Court, or any other fit and proper person; and the other members should appear to the President as having experience and showing capacity in law, public administration, social service, finance or accountancy or any other discipline. The Chairman and other members are appointed by the President after consultation with the opposition. Public Officers and positions listed under Schedule 1 of the Commission’s Act should disclose their financial assets and liabilities on
or before June 30, each year. When a public officer ceases to be a person in public life, he or she should disclose his or her assets and liabilities to the Commission within thirty days from the date that individual cease to be a person in public life, the legislation states. In the past, the functioning of the Integrity Commission has been a controversial issue, though the previous administration had sworn in members in 1999, the Commission’s Chairman, Bishop Randolph George, resigned in 2006, and the commission has since been headless. While in Opposition, the APNU-AFC coalition had promised to appoint an independent Integrity Commission as a matter of priority. It vowed that the Chairman and members of the Commission would be persons of good repute.
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Several water projects ongoing across the country MANAGERS of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) in the 10 administrative regions are all upbeat about the successes of projects being undertaken this year. During a press conference on Wednesday at the water company’s Corporate Complex at Vlissengen Road and Church Street, Georgetown, they pointed to successful projects which have improved the supply of potable water. Region 4 Divisional Manager, Curtis Niles, reported that in a section of Lamaha Park residents who had never received potable water are now being served, since distribution lines and service connections were installed at the location. GWI has also installed 12-inch transmission lines at Duncan Street,Georgetown and successfully laid transmission lines at Liliendaal from the Turkeyen well, located on the East Coast of Demerara. And two wells are being constructed at North Ruimveldt, with one being 50% completed; and at Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara, GWI has embarked on rehabilitation works. At ‘C’ Field Sophia, the network has been upgraded to ensure transmission lines are adequate to fully supply the area. Meanwhile, Divisional Manager Orin Dhanraj told the press conference that on the lower East Coast Demerara, leaks to overhead tanks were repaired, while extensive works were completed at the Hope Canal area and at Doch Four with the installation of distribution lines. Divisional Manager Nishal Samaroo said that in the first half of the year, a new well which serves 150 residents was drilled at Hill Foot on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway (East Bank Demerara) and distribution mains were installed at the Diamond Well Station where there was a major challenge to restore potable water supply in June. Assistant Divisional Manager for Region 6, Randolph Leitch, said that in Sandvoort, West Canje Berbice, distribution mains and new connection lines have been installed, and some customers have since been
regularised. In Fyrish and Tarlogie, Corentyne, extensive works have been done to have potable water service from Number 60 to Number 67, and works ongoing from Number 66 to Number 75 Village are about 30% completed. Leitch added that in the Corentyne villages of Liverpool/Auchlyne, GWI installed distribution mains to improve coverage, and installed newer lines in Canefield and Agony’s Avenue as well. He also said that GWI has upgraded the service in Region 5, where leaks and lines in bushes were repaired and replaced. The Region Ten Divisional Manager Rawle Friday said GWI has constructed two new wells and two new water treatment plants which have benefited 18,000 customers in Blueberry Hill,
where there is now 24-hour service, bringing water pressure to customers’ first floors. Friday said also that GWI has started to decommission old mains in Mackenzie and West Watooka. WATER IN GREEN VALLEY Moreover, 50 customers will get potable water for the very first time in Green Valley, and remedial works are being done to water filters in Amelia’s Ward and Wisroc. Osei Manifold, Divisional Manager for Regions 1, 2, 8 and 9 said GWI has completed five out of eight village projects at Monkey Mountain, Princeville and Mahdia. He noted that 350 residents are receiving water for the very first time in Princeville, and said the water company is working to have a similar service at
Mahdia with the drilling of a new well there. Manifold said deeper wells are being dug to ensure that residents in the far-fetched areas get water
in the dry season, and a new tank is being constructed in Mabaruma. In Port Kaituma, due to mining the river water being contaminated, GWI has had
to drill a new well there, and that project will be completed in 2 or 3 years’ time. Region 7 Divisional Manager Elson Khirattie said that GWI has had some challenges in Bartica, due to population growth, and the company has had to install new distribution lines to service Central Bartica and have that area sectionalised. Region 3 Divisional Manager Martin Gurrick said improvements are being made to boost the level of service from Hubu to Parika. The water service is to be restored to normalcy at Meten -Meer-Zorg, and GWI is dealing with problems at La Parfaite Harmonie and Canal No. 2, where there is no water supply at times. Gurrick informed that a new well will be drilled at Schoonord, and unserved areas at Zeelugt and Parika will be made a priority.
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Jagdeo shrugs off accusation ‒ takes aim at hiring of ‘racist agenda’ of ex-army officers By Tajeram Mohabir TOP People’s Progressive Party (PPP) executive member Bharrat Jagdeo has tried to shrug off accusations that the PPP has a racist agenda by countering that the charge is not true, and that under the 23-year rule of the PPP, Afro-Guyanese benefited more than at any time in the history of Guyana. “The evidence will show that in 1992 the Public Service was dominated by Afro-Guyanese, and up until today it is still dominated by Afro-Guyanese. In the 70s, public servants were the middle-class in this country, and in 1992 they were pauperised
by a PNC Government when the minimum wage fell to $20 a month by the time the PPP got into office. “You remember the case of teachers and nurses and doctors and other public servants having to hustle outside to make a living because the Public Service salary was not adequate enough [sic] to maintain a decent life to even feed their families?” the former President, now Opposition Leader, told a gathering of mostly party supporters at the Sleep In Hotel on Brickdam, Georgetown on Wednesday. He was speaking at a forum titled “Militarisation of the State: Discrimination, victimisation, witch-hunt
and intimidation”, attended and addressed by top party leaders, including former President Donald Ramotar, former Attorney General Anil Nandlall, and PPP General-Secretary Clement Rohee. That forum decried what the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) calls the “militarisation of the State”. The charge that the PPP and Jagdeo have a racist agenda has stemmed from comments the Opposition Leader made while addressing a party forum in New York less than a month ago, when he told a gathering of mostly Indo-Guyanese: “There is an assault on our democracy; there is an assault on people of Indian origin; there is an
see so many of you out here, and that you keep the spirit of our community alive. This spirit is essential here for our people to make progress, but it is the same spirit that we need badly back in Guyana now — a spirit of community, to ensure that we defend our people through these dark times.”
Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo at Wednesday’s PPP forum
assault on supporters of the PPP.” He added: “It’s good to
RACE BAITING The Government, in a statement, dismissed Jagdeo’s comments made at the New York forum as “race baiting,” contending that the claim of “assault on people of Indian origin” is despicable, without any basis, and is a complete figment of Jagdeo’s imagination. “On the contrary, the policies of the coalition Government are designed to achieve the good life for all Guyanese; not a handpicked few, as was the case under the PPP regime, which was rejected by the Guyanese electorate on May 11, 2015 in free and fair elections,” the Government has said. The Opposition Leader’s New York comments have also attracted heavy criticism from public commentators, but he has maintained that he has said nothing wrong and has spoken out about what he knows. He explained that some of those who accused him of being racist might be on shaky ground, since at one time or the other they had spoken out against what they view as discrimination against Afro-Guyanese under the PPP. NO AFRO-GUYANESE AMBASSADOR Jagdeo has said there was no institutionalised discrimination against Afro-Guyanese under the PPP, but the PPP’s tenure in office had marked a period when, at one time, there was not a single Afro-Guyanese serving as ambassador; and then Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, had told a High Court trial that no Afro-Guyanese was qualified for such a post. Jagdeo has not denied that acts of discrimination against Afro-Guyanese had taken place under the PPP, but contends that no Government can answer for every person in charge of managing every entity, since “people often act on their own philosophy. Some might be pure racist,
and you can’t blame every Government for that, but you can definitely blame a Government when the practice of racism starts to become institutionalized; and what we have seen now is this practice of discrimination on two grounds: race and politics,” he claims. On the issue of the hiring of former army officers, the Opposition Leader has said that while the PPP is not against the hiring of ex-army officers for Public Service jobs, it is against how this is being done. Acknowledging that ex-soldiers can be integrated into the Public Service, Jagdeo contends that it should not be persons who have long passed retirement age and have been out of the system for a long time. Public commentator Ramon Gaskin, who also spoke at the forum, said these jobs should be given to young people, many of whom are competent and are willing to serve. CANNOT DISCRIMINATE President David Granger has defended the hiring of ex-soldiers, saying that they were hired on the basis of competence and experience. “These are human beings. These are people with skills; they’re not a separate breed of citizens. We can’t deprive them of their rights if they have the talent, the experience, [and] the qualifications. I won’t discriminate against them,” the Head of State said. He also pointed out that, on assumption of office, there were about 10 officers whom the PPP administration had already appointed. He said everybody recognises that some of the appointments made by the previous administration were of ex-army officers, and nobody criticised them. “Why should they criticise me?” the President asked. Under the PPP administration, Major-General Joe Singh was appointed Chairman of the National Task Force Commission; Retired Colonel Chabilall Ramsarup was appointed Director-General of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC); Colonel Brassington Reynolds was appointed a High Court Judge; and Colonel Jawahar was appointed Accountant-General.
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Minister Lawrence pushes for Media Literacy Week SOCIAL Protection Minister Volda Lawrence has challenged the local media fraternity to introduce a Media Literacy Week to bring much needed attention to critical issues which the media can highlight. The Minister made her comments last Friday at the presentation ceremony of a report dubbed “Women and Children in the Media: The presence of women, their administrative status; and the voices of children”, which emanated from a study conducted for the Ministry by Ms. Karen Davis, with support from the United Nations Children Fund. The study sought to examine how women and children are represented in the media; and recommended, among other things, the need for “advocacy for an increase in the number of programming for women and by women, to ensure that women’s needs and concerns are ventilated from a woman’s perspective”. It also recommends that “there should be special programmes promoting child rights and responsibilities, the CRC (Commission on the Rights of the Child), and sensitising all concerned to the protective measures available to children, and about institutions which exist to protect them.”
In this context, the Minister issued her challenge: “to our local media – online, broadcast print and electronic – to build on the foundation of this UNICEF-funded document and others like it which currently exist. I want to advocate that all media owners and managers push for the introduction of an annual Media Literacy Week observance in Guyana, beginning next year. There are critical issues which demand national attention and which the media can highlight during the proposed annual observance.” She added that for women, the discourse can focus on, among other issues: Gender representation in the Guyanese media, women’s body image, and contributions of local women to Guyanese media evolution. She also noted that the media is instrumental in helping children to deal with related issues, including cyber bullying, cyber crimes, excessive internet use, sexting, sexual exploitation, and pornography. “Ladies and gentlemen, the time has come for us as a society to advocate more vigorously for a gender rebalancing in the top positions of our media. The time is also ripe for the nation’s children to be moved from
UNICEF Representative Ms. Marinne Flach receiving the report from Karen Davis, while Minister Volda Lawrence looks on
the periphery of media attention and more to its centre,” she said. UNICEF Representative Ms. Marinne Flach described the report as very significant, noting that it highlights many issues for attention, including women’s representation on State Boards, and the fact that women and children are often represented in the media in stereotypical ways. “We have a long way to go, and we need to continue
working on these issues…It is not a Guyana issue, a lot still has to be done worldwide,” she said. Thanking UNICEF for its support on the project, Minister Lawrence noted that while many of the issues highlighted are cause for concern, the report gives stakeholders an opportunity to address many issues. Hence the Social Protection Ministry would be incorporating some of the issues
to be addressed in its work programme, and looks forward to partnering with other stakeholders to do the same. “…it has, however, provided a platform from which we can revolutionise our media practices and launch national initiatives to help improve the well-being of our women and children. At every level of our education system, girls are doing better than boys, yet the report indicates that women remain
a minority at the senior levels of local media houses. Their expertise is largely bypassed through employment practices at the managerial, policy-making, training and programming levels.” Describing the project as labour of love, Ms. Davis said the 2014-2015 study stemmed from the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action, which flagged 12 key areas, including women and the media, where urgent action was needed to ensure greater equality and opportunities for women and men. It was conceived in collaboration with the National Resource and Documentation Centre of the Ministry of Social Protection, headed back then by Mrs. Yvonne Stephenson, who was succeeded by Ms. Yvette Bess. “The figures were starling. It was found at that time that only 27.3 percent of the memberships on Boards of Directors were women; 37.4 percent of women held managerial positions across the media, and 34.9 percent of women were classified as professional,” she said. The report also stated that there are less than 20 percent female editors, with the print media showing higher figures than the electronic media. (Ministry of Social Protection)
‘Fresh look’ to be given to fire preve ‒ Report of Drop-In Centre Inquiry handed over PUBLIC Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan has been tasked with taking a “fresh look” at fire prevention protocols at government facilities. This was announced by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, on Friday, when he received the report of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the deaths of brothers Antonio and Joshua George, who perished in the Drop-in Centre fire on July 8 at Hadfield Street, Georgetown. The final report was submitted to Minister Harmon by lone Commissioner Retired
Colonel Windee Algernon at the Ministry of the Presidency. A press statement from the Ministry of the Presidency noted that government has given serious consideration to the recommendations contained in the preliminary report which was submitted on July 22, and President David Granger has given Minister Ramjattan the added responsibility of taking a fresh look at fire prevention protocols and possible safety hazards at government buildings. “Now that we have the [final] report, we are con-
fident that the various ministries and government departments will look at the recommendations and do what is required, so that we can provide safe and secure places not only for children, but for everyone. “This was a tragedy, but, as a State, we have a responsibility to every person… This is a wakeup call for us insofar as fire safety and security are concerned,” Minister Harmon said. The statement said copies of the report were also presented to Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence,
and Acting Chief Fire Officer Winston McGregor. Director and Management of the Child Protection Unit, headed by Ann Greene, will meet next week to discuss “an action plan on how to implement the recommendations listed in the report,” Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence, said during the presentation ceremony. The press statement from the Ministry of the Presidency said Minister Lawrence also said the Ministry of Social Protection will work closely with the family members of the two boys to
Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon, receiving the report f Commissioner Retired Colonel Windee Algernon (centre rig Minister of Social Protection, Ms. Volda Lawrence, and Acti Fire Winston McGregor (right) also received copies of the re
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
Miss World Guyana visits Juvenile Holding Centre REIGNING Miss World Guyana, the 24-year-old beauty Nuriyyih Gerrard, has paid a visit to the youngsters of the Juvenile Holding Centre in Georgetown, and has offered them words of encouragement and wisdom, received by an audience of giggling girls at the institution. Reminding them that they also are beautiful and should not be limited by their circumstances, past or present, Ms. Gerrard said at the end of the visit: “Basically, I spoke to them on pursuing their dreams; learning how to cope with challenges; developing a resilient attitude towards life; ensuring that they are supportive towards each other; and that they communicate how they feel, and that they seek the support of an adult if they feel that a challenge is too much for them.” The Friday visit formed part of the beauty queen’s “Beauty with a Purpose” initiative, which focuses
2016 Miss World Guyana Nuriyyih Gerrard following her visit to the Juvenile Detention Centre
on mental health issues in Guyana. Following the visit,
Gerrard expressed desire to continue collaboration
with the facility through her NGO, One Act Foundation. “I certainly do feel motivated to continue the work that I’ve started. I feel as though I need to visit more often, because they do crave that sort of attention. They need more role models appearing at the facility to give them hope,” she stated. The beauty queen said she was initially drawn to visiting the institution because she felt she could connect with the youths, given that she knows what it feels like to be faced with difficulties growing up. “I do feel a lot of empathy for those young people in that situation, and I basically wanted to go there to encourage them: let them know that this is not the end of the world, and they don’t have to give up on themselves. I, too, would have faced certain challenges in my life; maybe not as severe or as extreme as that, but I can relate to them because we all face challenges, and I know
ention at gov’t buildings
from ght). ing Chief eport
ensure that they can “pick up and move on in their lives” despite the terrible loss they have suffered. Chief Fire Officer McGregor also assured that the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is doing everything in its power to ensure that all public buildings are safe and adhere to fire safety guidelines. Commenting on the contents of the report, Colonel Algernon said that in its compilation she sought to provide much needed recommendations that would see the implementation of necessary mechanisms and systems that would prevent a recurrence in the future.
that unless you have a firm voice of wisdom helping to shape your perspective of the world in a positive way, it can become an overwhelming situation whenever you’re faced with difficulties,” she explained. The visit was part of a string of activities this queen has planned ahead of her representation at the 2016 Miss World Pageant
in Washington DC, USA on December 20. Ms. Gerrard said plans are afoot to visit some 14 orphanages across Guyana; while a mental awareness outreach is planned for next month, and a mental health summer camp is planned from August 29th to 31st at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
East Canje teen charged with stealing motorbike NINETEEN-year-old Rayan Bynoe of Lot 435 Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, East Canje Berbice was allegedly promised half of the proceeds from the sale of a stolen motorbike after the booty was delivered to its buyer in Georgetown. He was, however, nabbed along the Mahaica main thoroughfare after police, acting on a tip-off, stopped him on August 1st as he was biking to the city. He appeared before New Amsterdam Magistrate Alex Moore and was granted $75,000 bail on a charge detailing that between July 28 and 29, at Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, he stole a Honda CB 125 motorcycle, number CH 8603, valued at $292,000, property of Gibran Rollins, who had parked his motorbike under his home and later realised it had gone missing. Rawlins subsequently made a report of his loss to the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, and on August 1, at around 15hrs, his brother was travelling to Georgetown in a car when he observed the defendant riding the bike bearing the registration number. Contacted, Rawlins travelled to the East Coast location, where his documents confirmed him as being the rightful owner of the motorbike. Arrested, the defendant told investigators that an identifiable man named ‘Lil Zip’ had given him the bike to take to Georgetown, where it would have been sold for $140,000 and he would have received half of the proceeds. The defendant was then arrested and taken to Central Police Station where a charge of simple larceny was instituted. Bynoe is expected to return to court on September 2. [Jeune Bailey Van Keric]
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Police youth camp billed Public Security Ministry throws weight for August 14 - 19 behind suicide vigil THE Public Security Ministry is in suppoer of a suicide vigil titled “Voices Against Violence National Candlelight Vigil.” It is planned for World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. While applauding the efforts of the 20-plus organisations that are partnering to make the event possible, the Public Security Ministry, in a press release, stated that Guyana is small enough for the vigil to be “eminently doable, especially given the significance and effect of this national scourge.” It said that Guyana’s history teaches that differences – whether political, ethnic, religious, gender, or sexuality - are never obstacles in the face of people’s resolve. The ministry said it recognises the need for communities to bridge all divides as a critical step to create positive change. The vigil will foster community collaboration, it said, adding that it will focus on saving lives and preventing harm and foster the process of societal transformation. In addition, the Public Security Ministry said it believes that the vigil can be another step in redressing
violence in all its manifestations– human-trafficking, suicide, drug and alcohol addiction, domestic, gender and child abuse, rape, incest, teenage pregnancy, road carnage, dysfunctional relationships, neglect of the elderly, abuse of the mentally and physically challenged and inter-personal violence. It can also lead to the understanding that empowerment of the individual is a function of communities and, thus, help to encourage communities to become more self-reliant in seeking to create a safe environment. When communities are safe, then the nation becomes safe, the ministry said. Several organisations are coordinating the vigil and these include Caribbean Voice, Golden Om Dharmic Youth, Save Abee Foundation, Orchid Foundation, the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex, NJASM Humanitarian Mission, Art of Living (Guyana), Nirvana Humanitarian Foundation, Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), Imagine Nation Foundation, GIVE Foundation, Monique’s Helping Hands, Guyana Women’s Roundtable, Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association
(GRPA), Crossroad Suicide & Mental Health Awareness Services, Galaxy 21 Communications, Team MMR, Guyana Divya Jyoti Association, Seventh Days Adventist of Guyana, Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nicosia Sisters, East Canje Humanitarian Society and Miss Universe Guyana. In addition, the Ministry of Public Security in its statement urged all communities across Guyana to unite and organise similar vigils on September 10th and turn out in large numbers to start the process of tackling violence. “We appeal to religious institutions, sports clubs, youth and women’s groups, political and cultural organisations, professional and business entities and all individuals to make Voices Against Violence a truly national effort,” the release stated. The ministry expressed hope that other NGOs will become involved. “We appeal to local and community leaders, businessmen and others with influence to help bring this off by ensuring that a vigil is organised in every community,” it said.
Market vendors launch registered union MARKET vendors nationwide can now look forward to formal representation by a registered union, the Guyana Market President of the new Guyana Market Vendors Union (GMVU) Eon Vendors Union Andrews (centre) flanked by other members (GMVU), which was launched and welfare of the public. the ongoing rift in relations Thursday. The union aims to edu- between City Hall and venSpeaking during the cate members with regard to dors, the union will provide launch was GMVU President offering good hospitality and assistance and legal repreEon Andrews, who indicated service, while also acting as sentation to its members that the union’s intention is the official agent on all mat- appearing before the courts to work in the best interest of ters concerning the operation or in any matter where legal vendors countrywide. of vendors in Guyana. competence is necessary. He added: “For too long Andrews stressed that However, the union said vendors have been lacking the union also hopes to pro- that it hopes to have a corthe respect they deserve as vide medical, insurance, hos- dial relationship with City commercial operators, hence pitalisation and other benefits Hall, while creating formal we recognised the need to for members. and legal representation form a union which would “We will assist in many through the union. The represent vendors’ welfare.” ways…one of our main ob- GMVU is also looking forTherefore, the GMVU jectives is to ensure that there ward to getting information has been established and is a hassle-free process when from City Hall on various comprises market and itin- it comes to the importation of issues concerning vendors, erant vendors in order to goods,” said the president of as well as being able to provide an efficient, country- the new vendors’ union. approach the council on wide service for the benefit Meanwhile, in light of certain matters.
THE Annual Youth Camp organized by the Guyana Police Force in collaboration with the Guyana Association of Women Police will be held from today to Friday at Camp Madewini on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway. More than 175 children, between ages nine and 14 who were selected from the Force’s youth clubs and scout groups will be participating in the camp, which is being held under the theme: “Developing youths through community projects, discipline and teamwork”. The campers will be involved in craft work, educational talks, road safety exercises, religious teaching, games, and an exhibition to showcase their acquired
Top brass of the GPF pose with children of one of the annual youth camps
skills, among other activities. The camp, which has received the full blessing of acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine and his administrative team, will be managed by Woman Senior Superintendent Maxine
Graham with assistance from a number of other police ranks, including members of the Guyana Association of Women Police and significant support from the Divisional Commanders.
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Thompson stuns Fraser-Pryce to take 100m gold ELAINE Thompson ended fellow Jamaican ShellyAnn Fraser-Pryce’s reign as Olympic champion by winning the women’s 100 metre final at Rio 2016. Fraser-Pryce had established herself as the queen of women’s sprinting with wins at the Beijing and London Games, in addition to claiming three World Championship titles. However, Thompson
left the rest of the field trailing in her wake with a superb performance, clocking 10.71seconds - a time only she has beaten in 2016 - to win comfortably ahead of the United States’ Tori Bowie (10.83secs). Fraser-Pryce edged out Marie-Josee Ta Lou to grab bronze - both women given the same time of 10.86, while Dafne Schippers came fifth and English Gardner
- who had run 10.74 at the US Olympic trials - came a disappointing seventh. Although the finalists were separated by a mere eight hundredths of a second across the three semi-finals, Thompson had looked the most accomplished qualifier as she ran 10.88 seconds easing up. The 24-year-old - a silver medallist over 200m at last year’s World Champi-
onships - then made a strong start in the final and never looked likely to be caught after opening up a lead at the halfway stage. Thompson duly surged home to come within a hundredth of the world-leading time she registered last month, with Bowie and Fraser-Pryce edging out Ta Lou in the battle for the remaining podium places.
Farah recovers from fall to defend 10,000m title
MO FARAH recovered from a dramatic midrace fall to clinch gold in the men’s 10,000 metres and cement his legacy as one of the distance-running greats at the Rio Olympics last night. The Briton clipped the heels of training partner Galen Rupp - silver medallist at London 2012 - and tumbled to the ground, but quickly returned to his feet to rejoin the leading pack. Paul Tanui made a bold move on the final lap, but
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Farah displayed his trademark strong finish to beat the Kenyan with a time of 27 minutes and 5.17 seconds, while Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia completed the podium. Farah won his first 10,000m Olympic gold as part of ‘Super Saturday’ at his home London Olympics four years ago before going on to clinch a double with victory in the 5000m. He is unbeaten in major races since Ibrahim Jeilan pipped
him in the longer distance at the 2011 World Championship. But his latest victory was far from straightforward. An accidental collision with training partner Rupp may not have disrupted his rhythm to a great extent, but Tanui and Kenyan compatriot Geoffrey Kipsang Kamworor - predicted by many to be Farah’s main rival - attempted to set a quick pace to negate their rival’s strong finish.
However, Kamworor paid the price as he tailed off in the closing stages and eventually it was left to Tanui and Farah to battle it out. Tanui tried to stretch the race on the final lap, but Farah still had plenty in reserve to storm to the line and he can now become the first man since Lasse Viren in 1972 and 1976 to complete a “double-double” when he defends the 5,000m title later this week.
Puig upsets Kerber to win historic gold HISTORY was made at the Rio Olympic Tennis Centre as last night as Monica Puig shocked Angelique Kerber to claim Puerto Rico’s first gold medal. Monica Puig upset the odds to beat Angelique Kerber in yesterday’s women singles final at Rio 2016 and win a first Olympic gold medal for Puerto Rico. The world number 34 had already beaten the likes of Garbine Muguruza and Petra Kvitova to reach the final and once again belied her underdog status to secure a 6-4 4-6 6-1 victory. Puig, 22, etches her name into the history books as Puerto Rico’s first Olympic champion, having produced a fantastic display of aggressive tennis against the much-fancied Kerber, the second seed. Kerber has enjoyed a breakout 2016 in terms of grand slam success, winning the Australian Open and finishing as the runner-up to Serena Williams at Wimbledon. Yet the German - who required medical treatment after the first set - was unable to find an answer to an inspired opponent. Puig was broken at the first time of asking, but hit straight back when Kerber put a forehand into the net. As the opening set progressed it was clear Puig was not overawed by the situation, her crisp ball-striking and aggressive play from the baseline putting Kerber under pressure. And eventually the German yielded when serving to stay in the set as Puig hit a two-handed backhand that clipped the net and landed in.
MONICA PUIG Kerber was noticeably in discomfort in that final game and required an off-court medical timeout at the end of the set. But the timeout appeared to reinvigorate Kerber, who broke immediately and saw another break-point opportunity go begging in game three. Puig came back at Kerber and when the German volleyed a forehand into the net the score was level again at 4-4. Yet Kerber broke back immediately and served out to force a decider. Undeterred, Puig came out firing and broke for a 2-0 lead, before a poor drop-shot into the net from Kerber saw her fall four games behind. Kerber ensured a final-set bagel did not occur and Puig was made to toil in a marathon last game, saving six break points and wasting two match points before finally sealing the win when Kerber went wide with a forehand.
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De Silva leads Sri Lanka fightback with maiden Test century (REUTERS)-DHANANJAYA de Silva hit a maiden century and combined with Dinesh Chandimal to resurrect Sri Lanka’s innings after a poor start against Australia on the opening day of the third and final Test yesterday. Sri Lanka, who have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, won the toss and opted to bat but were reduced to 26 for five, bringing De Silva and Chandimal together at the crease. For close to the next 74 overs in the day, Australia could not separate the pair as they added 188 for the sixth wicket with the hosts reaching 214 for five at the close, with De Silva 116 not out and Chandimal unbeaten on 64. Left-arm paceman Mitchell Starc, the most successful bowler in the series, was at his devastating best in the morning and picked up three
wickets, taking his tally for the series to 20. Captain Steve Smith
assistance to the spinners and was rewarded with two wickets.
Sri Lanka ‘s Dhananjaya de Silva celebrates his maiden Test century. introduced off-spinner Nathan Lyon in the sixth over with the pitch at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground already providing some
Hull stun champions Leicester in season … Everton hold Tottenham
(REUTERS)-Leicester City became the first Premier League champions to begin their title defence with a defeat when they slumped to a shock 2-1 reverse at injury-ravaged Hull City yesterday. Robert Snodgrass fired a 57th-minute winner for Hull but Claudio Ranieri’s Leicester lacked the intensity that underpinned their previous campaign. Riyad Mahrez’s second-half penalty cancelled out Adama Diomande’s acrobatic overhead kick for the hosts before Snodgrass slammed the ball home from inside the box. “They played better,” said Ranieri. “We tried to do our best, our effort was amazing but it was individual, not as a team.” Erik Lamela’s excellent second-half header rescued a 1-1 draw for Tottenham Hotspur at Everton. Ross Barkley had earlier given new manager Ronald Koeman an ideal start to life at Goodison Park with a fifth-minute free kick. Spurs lost goalkeeper Hugo Lloris to a hamstring injury in the 36th minute but bounced back when Lamela nodded in Kyle Walker’s cross. The visitors could have snatched a late winner when Everton keeper Maarten Stekelenburg denied new signing Vincent Janssen. “The first half was difficult for us and we didn’t play well,” said Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino. “Hugo got injured and that had a big impact on us. In the second half we played as we usually play. A debut goal for Nathan Redmond helped Southampton come from behind to secure a 1-1 draw with Watford while a late Leroy Fer strike gave Swansea City a 1-0 win at promoted Burnley who were left rueing a penalty claim that was rejected. Xherdan Shaqiri’s free kick helped Stoke City to a 1-1 draw at promoted Middlesbrough after Alvaro Negredo’s debut opener. West Bromwich Albion won 1-0 at Crystal Palace thanks to a goal from Salomon Rondon.
Starc, bowling with pace and accuracy, sent back Sri Lanka’s faltering opening batsmen, with Kaushal Silva falling for a duck and
Dimuth Karunaratne (seven) getting out to the same bowler for all five times in the series. Kusal Perera (16) hit three boundaries before edging Lyon to Smith at slip while the off-spinner also picked up Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews’ wicket, the batsman top-edging his sweep shot to deep square leg. Starc returned for another spell to dismiss in-form Kusal Mendis for one, Smith completing another smart catch behind the wickets. Lyon thought he had his third when De Silva was given out off a batpad catch but the batsman managed to overturn the decision on review. De Silva, playing only his third Test match, got to his hundred with a boundary off Smith’s part-time leg-spin and followed it up with an emotional cel-
ebration. He ended the day having hit 16 fours in his 240-ball knock. Australia had a few half chances but failed to convert them. Paceman Suranga Lakmal recovered from a hamstring injury to replace Vishwa Fernando in the only change for the hosts from the team that beat Australia by 229 runs in Galle.
Australia, whose top ranking in the format is at stake, dropped opening batsman Joe Burns and number three Usman Khawaja from a side that have struggled against the hosts’ spinners. Left-handed batsman Shaun Marsh and all-rounder Moises Henriques, who last played a Test match in March 2013, were drafted in.
SCOREBOARD SRI LANKA 1st innings K. Silva c Smith b Starc 0 D. Karunaratne b Starc 7 K. Perera c Smith b Lyon 16 K. Mendis c Smith b Starc 1 A. Mathews c Starc b Lyon 1 D. Chandimal not out 64 D. de Silva not out 116 Extras (b-4 lb-5) 9 Total (for 5 wickets, 90 overs) 214 Fall of wickets: 1-2 K. Silva,2-21 K. Perera,3-23 D. Karunaratne,4-24 A. Mathews,5-26 K. Mendis To bat: D. Perera, R. Herath, L. Sandakan, S. Lakmal Bowling: M. Starc 18 - 7 - 47 – 3,J. Hazlewood 11 - 3 - 27 – 0, N. Lyon 34 - 9 - 72 – 2, J. Holland 21 - 5 - 34 – 0, M. Marsh 5 - 0 - 20 – 0, S. Smith 1 - 0 - 5 – 0.
Pakistan smell victory after Younus hits 218 (REUTERS)-Younus Khan’s superb 218 put Pakistan in a strong position before they picked up four England wickets to take complete control on the third day of the fourth and final Test at The Oval yesterday. Younus batted for more than seven hours to lift the touring side to 542 all out in their first innings, a lead of 214 runs, and they then removed Alastair Cook, Alex Hales, James Vince and Joe Root to leave England in deep trouble on 88 for four. Gary Ballance was unbeaten on four at the close with
Hales (12) was then trapped lbw by Yasir Shah and the leg-spinner had Vince caught by Misbah-ul-Haq at cover for a three-ball duck to leave the hosts reeling on 55 for three. Joe Root made a fluent 39 but he was deceived by a quicker ball from Shah that crashed into his pads and the home team, 126 runs behind, face an uphill task to save the match with two days remaining. “Those four wickets in the evening session hurt us as a team but we’ve been in these tricky situations before and we’ll be fighting as hard as we can tomorrow to come out and fight to save this match,” said England paceman Steven Finn.
SCOREBOARD Younis Khan celebrates his double-century at The Oval on the third day It was his sixth in Tests. Jonny Bairstow on 14 but Pakistan should secure victory today to level the series 2-2. Younus shared a seventh-wicket partnership of 77 with Sarfraz Ahmed who was the only wicket to fall in the morning session, well caught by diving wicketkeeper Bairstow off Chris Woakes for 44. The experienced Younus shepherded the tail well, hitting four sixes and 31 fours as the England attack toiled in the sunshine. “As a senior there is a lot of expectation on me,” said the 38-year-old after compiling his sixth Test double hundred. “Everybody knows that if I can get through those first 20 or 25 balls I can make a big hundred. “The first three games I made some 30s but didn’t convert. In this game I was just very calm.” England began their second innings poorly as Cook, on seven, edged Wahab Riaz to Iftikhar Ahmed at first slip.
ENGLAND 1st innings 328 (M. Ali 108, J. Bairstow 55; S. Khan 5-68) Pakistan 1st innings (Overnight: 340-6) S. Aslam lbw b Broad 3 Az. Ali c Bairstow b Ali 49 Y. Shah c Root b Finn 26 A. Shafiq c Broad b Finn 109 Y. Khan lbw b Anderson 218 Misbah-ul-Haq c Hales b Woakes 15 I. Ahmed c Ali b Woakes 4 S. Ahmed c Bairstow b Woakes 44 W. Riaz st Bairstow b Ali 4 M. Amir not out 39 So. Khan c Broad b Finn 2 Extras (b-18 lb-6 nb-2 w-3) 29 Total (all out, 146 overs) 542 Fall of wickets: 1-3 S. Aslam,2-52 Y. Shah,3-127 Az. Ali,4-277 A. Shafiq,5-316 Misbah-ul-Haq,6-320 I. Ahmed,7-397 S. Ahmed,8-434 W. Riaz,9-531 Y. Khan,10-542 So. Khan Bowling: J. Anderson 29 - 10 - 78 – 1, S. Broad 29 - 5 - 99 - 1(nb-1 w-1), S. Finn 30 - 1 - 110 - 3(w-2),C. Woakes 30 - 8 - 82 – 3, M. Ali 23 - 1 - 128 - 2(nb-1,J. Root 5 - 0 - 21 – 0. ENGLAND 2nd innings A. Cook c I. Ahmed b Riaz 7 A. Hales lbw b Shah 12 J. Root lbw b Shah 39 J. Vince c Misbah-ul-Haq b Shah 0 G. Ballance not out 4 J. Bairstow not out 14 Extras (b-4 lb-5 nb-3) 12 Total (for 4 wickets, 31 overs) 88 Fall of wickets: 1-14 A. Cook,2-49 A. Hales,3-55 J. Vince,4-74 J. Root To bat: C. Woakes, M. Ali, S. Broad, S. Finn, J. Anderson Bowling: M. Amir 10 - 3 - 30 – 0, So. Khan 8 - 2 - 18 – 0, W. Riaz 4 - 0 - 15 - 1(nb-3),Y. Shah 7 - 1 - 15 – 3, I. Ahmed 2 - 1 - 1 – 0.
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George, Abrams fail to progress at Rio Olympics RUNNING a tough heats that included reigning m e n ’s 4 0 0 m O l y m p i c champion Kirani James,
W o m e n ’s 1 0 0 m r e cord-holder Brenessa Thompson,before her performance at the Rio Olympics on Friday
Guyana’s Winston George clocked 45.77 seconds to finish fifth in heat six of the men’s 400m on Friday night, where his performance was followed by Guyana’s Brenessa Thompson seventh-place finish in the women’s 100m heats, at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Guyana was represented in the women’s 400m yesterday by overseas-based Aaliyah Abrams, who clocked 52.79 seconds, to finish fifth in her heats,but unable to make it through to the next round. Abrams’ heat was won by Jamaica’s Christine Day in a time of 51.54 seconds. Aaliyah had entered the competition after qualifying with a 52.06 seconds. Meanwhile, many Guyanese were glued to their televisions on Friday night as George and Thompson began Guyana’s performance in athletics;hoping,against all odds,that they would have at least
made it into the semi-final round at the prestigious event being viewed by millions all across the globe. But alas,it was not to be
Guyana’s Winston George for either of the Guyanese, with neither of them moving on to the next round. Even before the men’s 400m national record holder got out of the starting blocks, it was evident that George was going to have a tough time in the race, where only
the top three finishers were moving on to the next round. Due to this technicality,two of the athletes to qualify for the semi-finals actually qualified with timings that were higher than George’s. Jamaica’s Javon Francis,who was in heat three,qualified with a time of 45.88 seconds, while Botswana’s Isaac Makwala got in with a time of 45.91 seconds, when he also ran in heat three. Entering the heats with a season’s best of 45.76 seconds, George was ranked last in his heat, where he competed against six other quarter-milers. Three of the athletes, including James, already had sb that were sub-45 seconds, whereas George’s personal best, which is also our current national record, stands at 45.25 seconds. The heat was won by Grenada’s James in a time of 44.93 seconds, which was also the fastest time overall of all the heats.Second place went to Jamaica’s Rusheen McDonald, qualifying in a
season’s best time of 45.22 seconds, and third went to Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith,in a time of 45.26 seconds.
Guyana’s Aaliyah Abrams Over an hour later, as Guyanese were getting over the disappointment of George not making it through, Thompson was on the track for the second round of heats in the women’s 100m, where Jamaica’s
Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce remains favoured for the win. Another national record holder, Thompson was in heat two of 8 heats. Running out of lane 8, Thompson got off to a slow start and finished in 11.72 seconds, in another tight race which was won by Netherlands Dafne Schippers. Schippers won the heat in 11.16 seconds. The rules for this event was that the First two finishers in each heat and the next 8 persons with the fastest timings will advance to the semifinals;Thompson unfortunately did not make the cut. However,this is not the end of the road for the Texas A & M athlete,who is still set to take part in the women’s 200m tomorrow. Also expected to perform tomorrow is Guyana’s Troy Doris who will be in the men’s triple jump. Expectations are riding high for Doris’ performance, with Doris currently ranked seventh in the world in the men’s triple jump.
Large turnout expected at Cuban boxer dedicates win to Castro Guyana Cup horse-race meet – Over 120 horses confirmed to compete on 90th birthday By Paulo Prada
By Rajiv Bisnauth
RIO DE JANEIRO,(Reuters)-Cuban super heavyweight Leinier Pero dedicated his Olympic boxing victory to Fidel Castro yesterday, the day the revolutionary and former leader of the Caribbean country celebrated his 90th birthday. “I want to send my regards to the commander,” said Pero, 23, after his win by unanimous decision over Italian Guido Vianello. “We have to learn to be great and here we are with a victory that we dedicate to him.” Pero, champion at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, is one of ten fighters on the Olympic squad from Cuba, a country where boxing is revered, and that has consistently out punched bigger nations at major tournaments including the Olympics. Hailing from the central Cuban city of Camagüey, Pero advances to a round of 16 among preliminary victors. But two of Cuba’s boxers, including a gold medalist at the 2012 Olympics in London, have already been eliminated at the Rio Games. Earlier yesterday, welterweight Roniel Iglesias Sotolongo, the Olympic champion four years ago, lost his bout to Shakhram Giyasov, of Uzbekistan. On Friday, Joahnys Argilagos, a flyweight and 2015 world champion, lost a semifinal fight to Yurberjen Martinez, of Colombia. Despite the defeat, Argilagos secured a bronze medal because of rules that prevent a third-place fight among those who lose semifinals. Castro, who thanked Cubans for weeks of birthday celebrations in a letter published yesterday, led a band of guerrillas to topple the government of Fulgencio Batista in 1959. The leftist remained Cuba’s leader for nearly half a century before leaving the presidency to his brother, Raul, in 2008.
OVER 120 top horses from Guyana,the Caribbean and North America, will be in action today when the tenth annual Guyana Cup horse race meet is staged at the Port Mourant Turf Club, Corentyne, Berbice. Thousands are expected to throng the famous venue for the nine-race meet, which is dubbed the biggest and richest horse-race event in Guyana and the Caribbean. This year, a colossal $30 million in cash incentives and trophies are up for the taking. In an invited comment yesterday, secretary of the Port Mourant Turf Club, Chattergoon Ramnauth, disclosed that all systems are in place for the mega event, which is expected to be a pulsating and action -packed day of racing. Ramnauth pointed out that despite the recent rains, the track is in good condition and some fast times are expected to be recorded in the grand showdown. Apart from the foreign
contingent of horses to be on show, several leading jockeys from overseas are also expected to participate,which will add that international flavour to the day’s event.
Also set to start are Kings Knight, Just Call Me Boss, Princess She Not, Golden Blue Echo, Spit Fire, Plum Plum, Goodwill Boy, Lady Budapest, Climate Change,
Defending champion ‘CP Got Even’ will definitely start as favourite. A star-studded field will include a full gate of 16 horses breaking-even in the feature ‘A’ and Lower race, where defending champion, ‘CP Got Even’, will definitely start as favourite. Also, the race has a line-up of pure-class horses, with the likes of Score’s Even.
Blame the Jockey, Jack in My Style, Because I Say So, Bridal Stone Corner, and the newly-imported Brave Sky, out of the USA. A total of $8 million will be up for grabs in that race which will be run over a distance of 1800 metres. The race for threeyear-old horses bred in
Guyana and The West Indies is listed as the co-feature event over 1600m. Other races listed on the programme are: the race for two-year-old Guyana-bred horses, the ‘E’ and Lower class, the ‘G’1 and Lower class, and West Indies and Guyana open event. There are two ‘H’class events, with the first listed for ‘H’1 and Lower horses,while the second is for’H’ and Lower Guyana- bred horses and ‘H’3 West Indies-bred maiden and three- year non-earners. The ‘J’class event is now for ‘J’2 horses four years and over,and all ‘L’ class winners four years and over,while the ‘L’ and Lower event is now for maiden horses. Admission is $2000 for adults, while children will pay $1000. The race will be run under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA). Race time is 12:30h. Meanwhile, the Berbice Bridge management informed this publication yesterday that the bridge will be closed today to vehicular traffic from 13:30hrs to 15:00hrs.
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‘Kanima’ ladies return from eventful tour of Canada THE Guyana National U21 Baseball team, known as the `Kanima ladies’, returned from an eventful tour of Canada where they competed in Baseball Canada’s Inaugural U-21 Women’s Invitational. The team began the tour-
this game, the team was treated to a clinic by Trevor Wamback , technical director of Baseball Nova Scotia. He was assisted by the head-coach and players of the Nova Scotia team. The final group stage game was played against
outstanding ambassadors of Guyana at the Caribana Heritage Festival, and were Guests-of-Honor of major team sponsor Fly Jamaica Airlines at the Guyana Last Lap festivities in Woodbridge Park. After four days of events
The ‘Kanima ladies’ join their Newfoundland counterparts in a traditional hat-toss after their game. nament nervously against Newfoundland Province and were dealt a 16-1 defeat,despite an outstanding performance by Ianna Graham,who functioned as a relief pitcher. The second game was played against hosts Nova Scotia, who were too sharp for the tourists;winning 15-0.However,’Kanima Ladies’performance was far better than that reflected in the final scoreline.After
eventual champions Quebec, who were in a must-win game to advance.The potential of Guyana’s baseball talent was better showcased in this match as the team played intelligent baseball to score two runs against a powerful defensive unit. The team came in for much praise after this effort against a well-oiled Quebec unit. According to a report from team-manager Robin Singh, “the Girls were
and sightseeing, it was on to Halifax for the business end of the tour.” “The attendance of a team from Guyana at such a prestigious event caused quite a stir in Halifax and garnered much media attention for Guyana, Women’s baseball and the tournament in general,” he continued. Singh and the ladies thanked the National Sports Commission, the Berbice High School,and the efforts
of Baseball Guyana in making such an historic tour possible.Tournament- Chair Holly La Pierre came in for high praise for the level of sportsmanship displayed by the Guyanese ladies. The ladies also engaged in a pre-game dance-off to Machel Montano’s Bring the Beat against Team Quebec. The squad was hosted by Guyanese residents of Halifax who also attended the games and were overjoyed to see the Golden Arrowhead proudly displayed in the team dugout. The tour was not without incident,as budget and other restrictions meant reduction in the size of the squad,with Singh expressing disappointment at some of the misinformation peddled about the tour and said that a tour review would be done to see where improvements could be made “There were a few complaints from players,for example,that rice and curry were not available.These were surprising to me personally, but I do realise that many had never travelled before and they should have been briefed on differences of culture before leaving.” Asked about future plans for female baseball , Singh stated “we are going to build on this initial tour; we have received numerous invitations to other tournaments in the United States and Canada.We have to pick our spots and secure sponsorship before committing to travel.Our aim is to prepare for the Phoenix Cup in Hong Kong in January, while dates and venues for open try-outs will be announced shortly.”
Guyana’s Resaul/Beaton take ITF Jamaican title GUYANA’s doubles team of Heimraj Resaul and Jordan Beaton, both of Marian Academy,are the champions of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Junior Under-14 tournament, after beating off a mixed team. Jamaica’s top seed, Damani King joined forces with Antigua’s Aron Fields to take on the Guyanese, but lost in straight sets 6-4, 6-2. The match was highly anticipated by spectators who followed the Guyanese team, after both Resaul and Beaton were ousted in the singles semi-finals to King and Fields, respectively. Damani King defeated Heimraj
Resaul 6-7, 6-2, 6-3,while Aron Fields ousted Jordan Beaton 6-1, 6-3. The Doubles finals commenced with King/Fields opting to receive after winning the toss, after which Guyana’s Resaul/Beaton duo forced a quick lead, holding and breaking service to command at 2-0, before pushing onto the first set at 6-4,then taking the second set 6-2. After the match, the Guyanese pair said that it was a real test of their mental strength to pull through the first set after having been defeated in the singles semis.But they played not just for themselves, but to make Guyana proud.
For now their focus is on the upcoming IGG for tennis,which will be held in French Guiana during October 27-November 1. Since there is no facility where the IGG team can start intensive training for the tournament, they will train within their club schedules with their coach Shelly Daly-Ramdyhan. The countries that will participate in the IGG are Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Martinique. 19 junior players left Guyana’s shores for Jamaica to participate in the Blue Mountain, while eight remained for the Under -14 Tournament.
Leewards beat Guyana by 30 runs ... T&T trounce ICC Americas by 151 runs By Brij Parasnath LEEWARD Islands maintained their upperhand over Guyana in the West Indies Cricket Board Under- 19 tournaments. After the Islanders won their Regional 3-Day match against the Guyanese outfit, they showed their superiority once again in the 50-Overs tournament when they registered a 30-run win in their third-round encounter of the West Indies Cricket Board 50-Overs competition at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex in St Vincent yesterday. Leewards batted first and posted 222 for 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs, with Tyrone Williams being the principal scorer with 69. Akenie Adams (10-0-41-2), and Bhaskar Yadram (10-0-28-2), were the only bowlers who got more than one wicket for Guyana. In reply, Guyana suffered major setbacks and lost three early wickets for only 30 runs in 8.3 overs. But Joshua Persaud 44 (5x4s off 84 balls),and Bhaskar Yadram 44 (1x6 and 3x4s off 66 balls),averted further disaster with a fighting 76-run fourth wicket stand that created hope that Guyana will be able to achieve the victory target But after both batsmen were dismissed,the rest of the team offered little resistance and their innings closed at 192 in 46 overs. Kian Pemberton was the chief wrecker and finished with four wickets for 29, and got the “Player of Match” award while Camron Pennyfeather took three for 29. In the other matches, Trinidad and Tobago registered a comprehensive 151-run defeat over the ICC Americas team at the Park Hill playing field, while Windward Islands
beat Barbados by three wickets at the Sion Hill playing field. Trinidad and Tobago took first strike and amassed 279 for 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs, with solid contri-
BHASKAR YADRAM butions from skipper Kirstan Kallicharan 78, Keagan Simmons 28, Joshua Ds Silva 24, Bryan Boodram 26, Saiba Batoosingh 23, and Jonathan Bootan 32. Aran Pathmanathan scalped two for 39, while Rommel Shahzad had 2 for 70. In reply, the ICC Americas were bowled out for 128 in 32.4 overs, with Abraash Khan being the topscorer with 50, while Arshan Khan made 22. Medium pacers Jarlanie Seales and Negus Smith were the main destroyers with four wickets for 33 runs and three for 40 runs respectively. Dejourn Charles grabbed two for 45. Barbados was dismissed for 178 in 47.3 overs, while Windwards romped to victory with 181 for 7 off 46.3 overs. Shamar Springer made 63 for Barbados, but Ryan John fired out three wickets for 30 runs and then returned with the bat to pilot his team to victory with an undefeated 49. Emmanuel Stewart also contributed with an even fifty.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday August 14, 2016) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica (2) Drawn Match
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Who was declared Man of the Match at the end of the second WI/IND Test of the current series? (2) What were Jermaine Blackwood’s scores in the second Test?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
31
SUNDAY CHRONICLE August 14, 2016
Windies collapse to hand India 2-0 series win (REUTERS)-India crushed West Indies by 237 runs on the fifth and final day of the third test in St Lucia yesterday, clinching the series after the home team collapsed to 108 all out. The win gave the touring team an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-match series and ended a streak of six consecutive series defeats outside Asia. India had not won or drawn a series outside the sub-continent since defeating West Indies in the Caribbean in 2011. They have now won three straight series in West Indies after losing seven of their first eight in the Caribbean. India won the third Test despite losing a day
being removed by paceman Ishant Sharma, the third time in a row he was clean bowled in the series. Number three Darren Bravo was the only batsman to offer significant resistance. He made an
assured 59 before falling to paceman Mohammed Shami, caught at short leg. Shami finished with figures of three for 15 while Sharma and spinner Ravindra Jadeja collected two wickets each.
SCOREBOARD
A dismal batting display in the second innings saw West Indies all out for 108 to slump to defeat in St Lucia, handing India a series victory.
President champions ‘grass root’ sport development -‘More needs to be done in schools, communities’ By Stephan Sookram
PRESIDENT David Granger is the latest champion of sport organisation and development,at the grass root level. The president, speaking on his weekly program ‘public interest’ and against the backdrop of the ongoing Olympic Games in Brazil, called for more to be done at the basic levels of society if the country is to develop its sporting talent. “We did our best to prepare the athletes who are now in Rio for the games but it should be a lesson, a learning initiative that we have to do a lot more to organize sport at the level of school and at the level of villages, the level of communities, the level of regions,” he said. “Unfortunately, the Olympics is not a matter of hope, it’s a matter of preparation,” the Head of state continued. The president added “Quite recently, I was in Kamarang to witness the Upper- Mazaruni district games and you can see the talent; but Guyana has to put infrastructure in place to make sure our young people get the best preparation.” The Ministry of Education (MoE) Department of Sport (DoS) just recently donated a quantity of lights to Kamarang in an effort to foster development there. The donation came just in time for the Upper- Mazaruni games, with the finals being played under lights. Speaking directly to Guyana’s team at the current games, the president said, “ My best wishes go out to the team.” “But at the same time, we have to ensure that the infrastructure is in place for our athletes, our swimmers, our footballers, so when they go to international competitions they could be assured, so we could remove the guess work and have bronze, silver and gold,” Brigadier Granger posited. Meanwhile, persons are being urged to utilise funding available for the development of sport venues and grounds under the Department of Culture’s Community development fund. The funds can be accessed by communities who are desirous of developing their grounds and infrastructure and this can be done through the Ministry of Education Department of Sport.
to rain at the Darren Sammy Stadium in Gros Islet. West Indies’ total of 108 was their second lowest against India, after they made 103 in Jamaica in 2006. The tourists batted for nine overs at the start of play yesterday, adding 60 quick runs before captain Virat Kohli declared on 217 for seven.
That left West Indies needing 346 for victory, a target that never looked remotely possible after both openers went cheaply, Leon Johnson for a duck and Kraigg Brathwaite for four. Number four Marlon Samuels looked uncomfortable against the pace attack, taking 21 balls to get off the mark. Samuels eventually advanced to 12 before
INDIA 1st innings 353 (R. Ashwin 118, W. Saha 104, L. Rahul 50) West Indies 1st innings 225 (K. Brathwaite 64; B. Kumar 5-33) India 2nd innings (Overnight: 157-3) L. Rahul c K. Brathwaite b Cummins 28 S. Dhawan lbw b Chase 26 V. Kohli lbw b Cummins 4 A. Rahane not out 78 Ro. Sharma lbw b Cummins 41 W. Saha c Dowrich b Cummins 14 R. Jadeja c Samuels b Cummins 16 R. Ashwin c K. Brathwaite b Cummins 1 Extras (b-1 lb-2 nb-6) 9 Total (for 7 wickets declared, 48 overs) 217 Fall of wickets: 1-49 L. Rahul,2-58 V. Kohli,3-72 S. Dhawan,4-157 Ro. Sharma,5-181 W. Saha,6-213 R. Jadeja,7-217 R. Ashwin Did not bat: I. Sharma, M. Shami, B. Kumar Bowling: S. Gabriel 3 - 0 - 19 - 0(nb-1), A. Joseph 4 - 0 - 23 - 0(nb-2), M. Cummins 11 - 1 - 48 - 6(nb-3), J. Holder 9 - 1 - 50 – 0, R. Chase 11 - 1 - 41 – 1, K. Brathwaite 10 - 1 - 33 - 0 WEST INDIES 2nd innings (Target: 346 runs) K. Brathwaite lbw b B. Kumar 4 L. Johnson c Ro. Sharma b Shami 0 Da. Bravo c I. Sharma b Shami 59 M. Samuels b I. Sharma 12 R. Chase b I. Sharma 10 J. Blackwood st Saha b Jadeja 1 S. Dowrich c Kohli b Shami 5 J. Holder run out (, R. Ashwin) 1 A. Joseph c Shami b R. Ashwin 0 M. Cummins not out 2 S. Gabriel c B. Kumar b Jadeja 11 Extras (lb-2 nb-1) 3 Total (all out, 47.3 overs) 108 Fall of wickets: 1-4 L. Johnson,2-4 K. Brathwaite,3-35 M. Samuels,4-64 R. Chase,5-68 J. Blackwood,6-84 S. Dowrich,7-88 J. Holder,8-95 Da. Bravo,9-95 A. Joseph,10-108 S. Gabriel Bowling: B. Kumar 12 - 6 - 13 – 1, M. Shami 11 - 2 - 15 – 3, I. Sharma 7 - 0 - 30 - 2(nb-1), R. Ashwin 12 - 2 - 28 – 1, R. Jadeja 5.3 - 1 - 20 - 2
Bolt recovers from slow start to join Caribbean semi-finalists USAIN Bolt leads Jamaican qualifiers into the 100-metres semi-final at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Bolt, running in Heat 7, found himself mid pack after the first 30 metres of a poor drive phase, and had to work to come through it. Bolt’s 10.07, not more than a quick jog for the world record holder and defending Olympic champion, was the fourth fastest time coming out of the first round, with the United States’ Justin Gatlin (10.01), Côte d’Ivoire’s Ben Youssef Meïté (10.03), and Canada’s Andre De Grasse (10.04), finishing ahead of him. Also through from Jamaica were Yohan Blake, who won his heat in 10.11, and Nickel Ashmeade, who was second in his, clocking 10.13 seconds. There were some stutters for the Caribbean, with Trinidad and Tobago’s Richard Thompson, crashing out, along with teammates Rondel Sorrillo and Keston Bledman. Barbados Ramon Gittens also
failed to qualify, running 10.25 to crash out, while The Bahamas’ Shavez Hart’s 10.28 was also not good enough. St Kitts and Nevis’ Antoine Adams (10.39), St Lucia’s Jahvid Best (10.39), and The Bahamas’ Jamial Rolle (10.64), will also take no further part in the 100-metre event. For St Kitts, there was some good news, as veteran sprinter Kim Collins, at 40 years old, is through to the semi-finals of the 100 metres, having finished fourth in his heat in 10.18. Antigua and Barbuda have also been given a boost with both Ryan Bailey and Cejhae Green making it to semis. Jamaicans running for other countries have also made their mark, with Andrew Fisher, turning out for Bahrain, qualifying qith 10.12, and his teammate, also from the Caribbean island, Kemarley Brown, qualifying with 10.13. Jak Ali Harvey, who moved from Jamaica to Turkey, is also through with his 10.14 being more than good enough.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Usain Bolt (JAM) reacts after competing in a men’s 100m heat at Estadio Olimpico Joao Havelange during the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games.
Thompson stuns Fraser-Pryce to take 100m gold
Elaine Thompson (JAM) of Jamaica (R) hugs ShellyAnn Fraser-Pryce after winning the women’s 100m final. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson
See story on page 27
Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson celebrates after winning gold in the women’s 100-metre final
Mo Farah (GBR) of Britain wins the men’s 10,000m final. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson
Farah recovers from fall to defend 10,000m title See story on page 27
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Puig upsets Kerber to win historic gold
See story on page 27
An emotional Monica Puig celebrates with her gold medal. SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2016