Guyana chronicle epaper 08 30 2016 by Guyana Chronicle

Swift settlement No. 104659

TUESDAY, AUGUST 30, 2016

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… Guyana to press UN for swift settlement of border controversy

Mixed reactions to 10% pay hike Page

Page 3

Robert Benn

…calls for govt to honour campaign promises

Wanted bulletin out for alleged human trafficker

KIRK ERROL PATON

Page12

Dismembered body of farmer found on Linden Highway 19 Page

Driveway shooting

Page

- businessman remanded on murder/attempted murder charges

“My client was living in fear since persons had threatened to attack, rob and kill him,” Burch-Smith told the court. The lawyer contended that his client felt threatened when he saw the car turning on his bridge since he believed the vehicle had potential bandits, so he shot at it. The lawyer further questioned Police Prosecutor Shavon Jupiter why his client was charged for murder and not manslaughter, since the killing was not deliberate and premeditated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Mixed reactions to 10% pay hike - calls made for Gov’t to honour campaign promises By Svetlana Marshall GOVERNMENT’s final offer of a one-to-10 per cent increase in salaries for public servants has been met with mixed reactions, and there have been calls for the percentage increase for the lower level of workers to be upped. Government last week said it was prepared to pay a 10 per cent increase to persons earning $99,000 or less; six per cent to persons earning between $100,000 and $299,000; five per cent to public servants earning between $300,000 and $799,000; two per cent to those earning between $800,000 and $999,000; and one per cent to those earning above $1M. Since entering office, the administration has paid a five percent increase to public servants; awarded a $50,000 tax-free bonus, and raised the minimum wage. In addition, there have been several other measures taken, including a hike in Old Age Pension and Public Assistance, among other incentives. The 10% increase is also the highest offer Government has made to public servants in close to two decades. The former administration had frequently imposed pay increases of not more than 5% throughout its term in office.

Political Commentator and Attorney-at-Law Christopher Ram INSUFFICIENT However, General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis, has said the 10 per cent cannot suffice. “Government needs to explore all avenues to pay more,” Lewis told this newspaper. Referring to a historical situation, Lewis said that in the 1960s, while speaking from two separate manifestos, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham and Peter D'Aguiar had committed to pay public servants an increase in their wages and salaries. When the first budget of the Peoples National Congress/ United Force coalition government was read, D'Aguiar, while acknowledging that the economy was in a bad shape, announced an increase for public servants

Commentator Ramon Gaskin

Fmr. Labour Minister Dr. Henry Jeffrey

GPSU General Sect’y Lincoln Lewis

in keeping with the commitment made. The Government of the day, Lewis maintains, must live up to its promise to the people. Alluding to the technique employed to offer a higher percentage to the lower paid public servants, Lewis said, “The principle may not be bad, but the percentage is; it is not appropriate.” Political commentator and Attorney-at-Law Christopher Ram said public servants, particularly those who work at the lower levels, deserve more than a 10 per cent increase. “Public servants work very hard at the lower levels, and deserve more than a 10 per cent,” Ram told this newspaper. He said that if Government is to address the issue of brain drain, it must be willing to pay much more. “You can’t continue paying Public Servants those kinds of wages and expect them to be productive, honest and committed,” Ram reasoned. The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), in re-

sponse, has said it would decide on Government’s final offer during its General Council Meeting set for September 2. The union has, however, maintained that its focus remains the provision of “a living wage” for public servants. Over the years, the union has been calling on Government to increase wages and salaries to a livable level, resolve the issue of debunching within the salary scales, and address the inadequacy of allowances paid to public servants.

For his part, former Labour Minister Dr. Henry Jeffrey, in an interview with Guyana Chronicle, rubbished the offer made, saying it was unacceptable “It makes no sense; they must be losing it,” Dr. Jeffrey said when approached on the issue. He recalled that the APNU+AFC coalition had promised “significant increases” in the salaries of public servants in the leadup to the 2015 General and Regional Elections. “Instead,” he said, “they gave themselves a 50 per cent increase and offer public servants a 10 per cent increase.” However, Dr. Jeffrey said it is up to the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) to accept or reject the offer made by Government. “It is for GPSU to determine what should be done. They will certainly get the support of the country if they take some sort of industrial action,” Dr. Jeffrey said. Meanwhile, at the party’s weekly press conference at Freedom House on

EXCELLENT OFFER Commentator Ramon Gaskin has said he is in support of the technique being employed by Government. Gaskin said the idea of giving higher increases to lowly paid public servants is an excellent one, and that he had made a similar proposal in 1999. “I support the idea to pay workers at the bottom a higher rate than those at the top…I support it. Do it for the nurses, police and army as well,” he posited.

Monday, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Clement Rohee lashed out at the Union, saying it was likely to side with Government. “Knowing the track record of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), it will mostly likely go along with the Government’s final offer on the basis of some lame excuse. This will be tantamount to another betrayal of the workers’ interest,” Rohee said. He said the GPSU must come clean, and in the interest of transparency and accountability explain to its members the true state of affairs in respect to the outcome of the negotiations, and how the ‘final offer’ was arrived at. Rohee also said the David Granger Administration must explain the total cost of the increases. “The PPP calls on the Granger Administration to explain to the nation what is the total cost of the one-to-ten per cent increase, having regard to the public boast by Prime Minister Nagamootoo who, at the 2016 May Day Rally, declared that Government had set aside $43.8 billion and $6.63 billion in benefits and allowances in the 2016 budget, as increases in wages and salaries for public servants. Moreover, he said, the question that is to be asked is whether Government’s final offer is “reflective of the twenty (20) percent increase that was promised to public servants in the APNU+AFC 2015 election manifesto.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Swift settlement

… Guyana to press UN for swift settlement of border controversy

THE GUYANA Government will continue to call for a peaceful and speedy solution to the Guyana-Venezuela Border Controversy. President David Granger made this statement when he addressed the People’s National Congress Reform’s (PNCR) 19th Biennial Delegates Congress over the weekend. Returned as Leader of the PNCR, President Granger said the party had always advocated for peaceful settlement of international controversies. “Guyana’s pursuit of peace had led to the signing, together with Britain and Venezuela, of the Geneva Agreement in February 1966, three months before gaining Independence,” he recalled. That Agreement, the President explained, required Guyana and Venezuela, in the event of disagreement

in attempting to resolve the controversy between themselves, to refer the matter to the United Nations Secretary General. Assessing the situation, President Granger said that after 25 years, the ‘Good Offices Process’ had been exhausted. He noted that in fulfillment of the Geneva Agreement, it was therefore necessary to seek another peaceful option. “It was in search of a peaceful solution that I led Guyana’s team to meet the UN Secretary General, first during the Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community in Bridgetown, Barbados in July; and second, during the UN General Assembly meeting in New York in September, 2015. Guyana, in its engage-

ments with the UN Secretary General, with the teams that he dispatched to Georgetown; and, indeed, with many international leaders, emphasised that the ‘Good Offices Process’ failed to resolve the controversy, and thus the time has come for another peaceful option to be pursued, the President told congress. As such, he said, the PNCR fully supports Guyana’s preference for a juridical settlement through recourse to the International Court of Justice. “Venezuela’s Decrees Nos. 1.787 and 1.859 published, on 26th May, 2015 and 7th July 2015 respectively, posed specific threats to Guyana’s maritime zone. We denounce those threats. The PNCR reminds the international community of our country’s expressed con-

President David Granger fidence in the capacity of the Office of the UN Secretary General to identify solutions that will validate the ‘just, perfect and final’ nature of the Arbitral Tribunal Award of 1899.” The PNCR, he said, would continue to work within the Government to

Cop in Regent Street smash-up to be charged soon TIMOTHY Andrew, the off-duty policeman who crashed a Route 40 (Kitty/ Campbellville) minibus on Saturday night, is to be charged soon, following the death of 21-year-old Dillion Linton. Traffic Chief Dion Moore, in an interview with Guyana Chronicle on Monday, said the police were awaiting the results of the post-mortem conducted by Government Pa-

thologist Dr. Viveknand Brijmohan before charges could be laid against Andrews. The post-mortem revealed that Linton, of Stone Avenue Campbellville, died as a result of shock and haemorrhage due to blunt trauma to the lungs. Linton and several other passengers were in a speeding minibus driven by Andrews along Regent Street when Andrews lost control of

the vehicle and it crashed into a utility pole at Regent and Albert Streets, Georgetown. The minibus also struck a motorcyclist in the process. Guyana Chronicle understands that the police officer was drag-racing with another bus when the accident occurred, just after 8pm on Saturday. Linton succumbed to his injuries early Sunday morning.

Dillon Linton

reinforce national security in order to protect the country’s patrimony in the face of threats. “We will continue to support the Government’s efforts to work with the Secretary General of the United Nations to seek a swift juridical solution to the spurious claim of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to our territory. “The Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana defines the territory of the state. Guyanese today inherited that territory from their progenitors; they have an obligation to pass it on to their progeny. They have a duty, as trustees, to protect their precious priceless patrimony. “They have the right to promote the exploitation of their resources. They have a prerogative to preserve their way of life without provocation from any foreign state whatsoever. Guyanese deserve to enjoy the God-given rights for which their ancestors struggled -- their land, their liberty and their livelihood -- so

that they can all have a good life. “The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela perversely continues to claim nearly 160,000 km² of our territory. This area represents nearly three-quarters of our land space, comprising five of Guyana’s ten regions – the Barima-Waini; Pomeroon-Supenaam; CuyuniMazaruni; Potaro-Siparuni and the Rupununi. “The Venezuelan National Armed Forces, we must never forget, seized the 7km² Ankoko Island in the Cuyuni River in October 1966, Guyana’s Independence year, and has remained in illegal occupation ever since. The island is used as a military garrison to harass Guyanese miners and to engage in occasional acts of provocation against Guyanese citizens. “The Bolivarian Navy of Venezuela notoriously sent a Corvette into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone on Thursday, 10th October 2013, to expel an unarmed petroleum exploration vessel.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Brazil’s Dilma Rousseff defends record at impeachment trial Brazil’s suspended President Dilma Rousseff has defended her record during her impeachment trial in the Senate. She is accused of illegally manipulating the budget

to hide a growing deficit. Ms Rousseff said her conscience was “absolutely clean” and that she had not committed any crime. Senators are cross-examining her. They are due to vote

later this week on whether to remove her from office for good or whether to reinstate her. Ms Rousseff is accused of moving funds between government budgets, which is illegal under Brazilian law. Her critics say she was trying to plug deficit holes in popular social programmes to boost her chances of being re-elected for a second term in October 2014. Ms Rousseff began her defence by reminding senators that she had been re-elected by more than 54 million voters. She said she had always honoured and upheld the Constitution. She also reminded senators of her past as a resistance fighter who opposed military rule. She said that even when she was tortured she continued to fight. Her fight, she said, had been for a more equal society and that the achievements of her government in that field were now “at risk”. She added that she was

determined to continue her fight against the attacks against her, which she said amounted to a “coup”. Ms Rousseff said she had been “unjustly accused” of crimes she said she had not committed. “I can’t help but taste the bitterness of injustice,” she said. She also warned of the dangers she said the interim government of acting President Michel Temer posed. Ms Rousseff said Mr Temer’s administration would limit public spending and act in the interest of a small economic elite. “The future of Brazil is at stake,” she said. She ended her defence by again talking about her time in captivity, briefly choking with emotion when she mentioned the torture she had endured “for days on end”. She thanked those senators who had fought for her to be cleared of the charges before asking those who were opposed to her to “vote against the impeachment, vote for democracy!”. Senators from her Workers’ Party stood up and applauded once she had finished, while her opponents sat in their seats stony-faced. (BBC)

ECLAC: Growth in Region depends on invigorating public, private investments LATIN American and Caribbean countries will show a -0.8% contraction in their growth rate in 2016, marking a steeper decline than in 2015 (-0.5%) and with very heterogeneous behavior among countries and subregions, according to a new report released by ECLAC late last month. The United Nations regional organisation presented its Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean 2016, in which it stresses the urgent need to mobilize investment—both public and private—to promote the region’s economic recovery and meet the challenges imposed by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. “The capacity of countries to accelerate economic growth depends on the spaces for adopting policies that support investment. These policies should be accompanied by efforts to change the conversation between the public sector and private companies. Increasing productivity is also a key challenge for moving forward along a path of dynamic and stable growth,” Alicia Bárcena, Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), said during the press conference in Santiago, Chile where the report was presented. The survey indicates that in the external arena, the global economy will maintain low levels of growth, which will be accompanied by a slow expansion in trade, which has not managed to recover the levels seen before the international financial crisis. On top of this, the report points to deteriorated prices for the region’s commodities exports and greater international financial uncertainty and volatility, which

have increased since the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union (the so-called Brexit). This decision has also produced greater risks to the world’s future growth. In the regional sphere, the report forecasts a -2.1% contraction for South America in 2016, mainly due to a deterioration in its terms of trade, weaker external demand and a significant deceleration in domestic demand, which reflects a sizeable fall in domestic investment. Central America will grow 3.8% thanks to the boost coming from its improved terms of trade (resulting from lower hydrocarbons prices), the recovery of its external and domestic demand, and increased income from remittances. The Caribbean, meanwhile, will suffer a -0.3% contraction in its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). According to ECLAC’s report, six countries are expected to show an economic contraction in 2016: Venezuela (-8.0%), Suriname (-4.0%), Brazil (-3.5%), Trinidad and Tobago (-2.5%), Ecuador (-2.5%) and Argentina (-1.5%). On the other hand, regional growth will be led by the Dominican Republic (6.0%), Panama (5.9%), Nicaragua and Bolivia (4.5%), and Costa Rica (4.3%). “Faced with an economic contraction, the region needs progressive structural change with a big environmental push that promotes development based on equality and sustainability, as we have proposed in our institutional document Horizons 2030: Equality at the Centre of Sustainable Development, which we presented in Mexico last May,” Alicia Bárcena said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Russian air power’s limits Freak lightning storm kills exposed in Syria fight 323 reindeer in Norway Russia’s politically-sensitive and ultimately fruitless decision to launch bombing missions on Syria from Iranian soil has exposed the limits to its air power, leaving Moscow in need of a new strategy to advance its aims. People familiar with Russia’s military said Moscow opted for the sorties from Iran - and Tehran agreed to allow them - because they were struggling to achieve their aim of crushing rebels in the city of Aleppo. The gamble failed and rebels fighting their ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Aasad, remain ensconced in parts of Aleppo. Russia began air strikes on Syria in support of Assad on Sept. 30 last year, launched from bases in government-held territory and from warships. Then this month, facing logistical problems in mounting an expensive campaign at a time of tight state finances, it intensified the bombing of Aleppo in what turned out to be a brief series of raids from Iran. The strikes on the Aleppo rebels seem to have achieved little beyond stirring a political row in Iran, whose constitution forbids the establishment of any kind of foreign military base. The fact that Russia went to such lengths to achieve its aims

Men inspect a damaged site after double airstrikes on the rebel held Bab al-Nairab neighborhood of Aleppo, Syria, August 27, 2016. REUTERS/Abdalrhman Ismail

in Aleppo and still failed could strengthen the hand of those in Moscow who believe the operation in Syria has reached a watershed, and that it is time to seek a negotiated solution. “I get the feeling we’re like a horse at the circus, running around in a circle since Sept. 30 when we first deployed our aircraft there,” said a person close to the Russian defense ministry who spoke on condition of anonymity. “Our forces are insufficient, our coordination with the Iranians is not at the required level. We need to change something. What, I don’t know.” IRANIAN SENSITIVITIES Russia’s defense ministry

announced on Aug. 16 that it had for the first time used an air base in Iran from which to launch air attacks on Syria. On subsequent days, longrange Russian Tupolev 22M3 bombers, escorted by Sukhoi fighters, took off on sorties from the Nojeh air base, near the Iranian city of Hamadan. Letting Russia base aircraft there was politically sensitive for Iran: the last time a foreign power had used an Iranian air base was in World War Two. Some Iranian lawmakers called it a breach of the constitution while Defence Minister Hossein Dehghan said that, by publicly revealing the arrangement, Moscow had committed a “betrayal of trust”. (Excerpted from Reuters)

A freak lightning storm has killed 323 reindeer in a remote mountainous area of Norway, officials said on Monday. Dead animals were found lying on top of each other, many with their antlers entangled, after the thunderstorm on the Hardanger plateau in southern Norway on Friday. “We’ve never had anything like this with lightning,” Kjartan Knutsen of Norway’s nature surveillance agency said, adding there were sometimes isolated cases of sheep or reindeer struck down. Reindeer tend to group together when in danger. It was unclear whether the herd had been killed by a single lightning bolt or several. Hardanger was extremely wet on Friday, helping conduct lightning.

Dead animals were found lying on top of each other

“The high moisture in both the ground and the air was probably an explanation for why so many animals died,” Olav Strand, a senior researcher at the Norwegian Institue for Nature Research, wrote in a statement. Experts flew in by helicopter to take samples of the dead reindeer, amid a rising stench of decay, as part of a project to monitor elk and deer for diseases. Five of the 323 animals were

found alive but badly injured and were shot by wildlife officials. It was unclear what would happen to the bodies. One option is to leave them to decay. “It’s part of the natural ecology, this is far from where people live,” Knutsen said. Hardanger has about 12,000 reindeer and hunters are allowed to shoot 2,000 a year for their meat. (Reuters)

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

Negative perception of the police THE 2016 USAID Report on Guyana has said the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is the institution Guyanese least trust. Established during the colonial period (1839), the GPF motto, “Service and Protection”, has, through the years meant different things, and not necessarily to the well-being of citizens. In the colonial period, it meant not only the maintenance of law and order, but also keeping the colonised ‘in their place’ and ‘protecting’ the colonisers from the colonized. The evolving relationship between the police and citizens have been tepid at best, and stormy at worst. The police are products of the society, and will operate within the framework allowed. They often take their cue from the prevailing political dynamics. The Force has never been socialised to see itself as part of the masses, with equal responsibility to serve and protect as the leadership; but it has seen the masses as being suspects to be contained at all cost. And this perception has seen the Force utilising methods and measures which are often inconsistent with modern policing. Negative perceptions of the Force are informed by police brutality, ineffective crime fighting strategies, extra-judicial killings, misplacements of court jackets, high rates of unsuccessful prosecutions in courts, bribery, the perpetual demand for ‘a top-up,’ and hostile community interaction. These are the most notable negative traits of the Force. In each instance, with the application of modern policing techniques -- including acceptable universal standard operating procedures, respect for laws and human rights, as well as proper remuneration -- negative perceptions can be reduced. Current efforts through training in ethics and improved public relations strategy, along with partnership training with developed countries, are noted. Recently released statistics showing comparative declines in serious crimes are also positive. While these are aiding in building a positive perception of the Force, almost everyone in society sees the Force in a negative light, and it requires a holistic, structured approach to reduce such perception. To address the inclination of police officers to accept a bribe or take a ‘top-up’, apart from weeding out corrupt officers, requires examination of the remuneration package, which is less than attractive. The Force is designed to be a professional institution, and if this is to be maintained, it requires necessary investment to treat it as such. To look at remuneration through the lens of the State being unable to pay, and to accept the explanation that recruits leave after a few years, present as symptomatic structural deficiencies in treating with the profession. Avenues have to be pursued to attract professionals into the Force, and salaries can be complemented with incentives and benefits. There are reports addressing the modernisation of the Force. The Disciplined Services Commission Report (2003), of which current President David Granger was a commissioner, was unanimously approved by the National

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

The cooperative is the answer Dear Editor, COOPERATIVES have been established as a means to economically develop people. Cooperatives also represent the third largest economic sector of a tri-sector economy, i.e. public, private, and coop sector. Unfortunately, in the recent past, the cooperatives sector has not been given the attention needed for it to become the economic powerhouse it can be. We must fix this. The focus brought to the cooperative model as a means for empowerment is informed by its application and success in the immediate post-slavery society, where Africans had acquired lands, built a system of government to manage their affairs, and scored notable successes in other achievements. The strong view is held that more cooperative societies should be encouraged. There are presently quite a few societies, though some are not doing as well and need the technical expertise that comes from Government in order to operate at full throttle. Measures must be put in place to help these institutions to function efficiently and effectively. Cooperative has proven an effective economic model to make the small man

a real man. The majority of African Guyanese are low wage/salary earners, and developmental opportunities can be better sourced and accessed through this medium. It is the cooperative model from which we have historically been able to achieve, and it is a model we must utilise to the fullest. Linden/Region 10 can identify with utilising this model as an engine of growth during my chairmanship of the last Regional Democratic Council. Within the last three years, this model was utilised to create business and employment opportunities for residents who could not have ordinarily done same through the commercial banking system. At the national level, in addition to feverishly pursuing empowerment through cooperatives, Afro-Guyanese must recommit to ensure that their interests are heard and secured. Black cultural groups must take a page from the Indian Arrival Committee, which has already met President David Granger twice over the last 15 months, and has publicly made known its interests and expectations under his administration. Though times have changed, change does not mean we discard the values upon which the Black community has

been built, secured, and succeeded over the years. We need to move from the present stage, where the majority is surviving, to where legitimate opportunities are ensured for all to prosper. The statement that Africans are at the bottom of the social ladder must be myth, not fact. The Black community has the capability to overcome, to succeed, and to take its equal and rightful place in society. This race carries within its bosom the dignity and power to overcome. Doing this requires reaching deep within and bringing to the fore what has been lying dormant for far too many years: Confidence! It is confidence that will make us straighten our backs, stare adversity and challenges in the face, speak out, stand up, move forward, and achieve. The time is now for us to ensure the family, the community, and the institutions of State work for us, not against us. Our history has shown that we have done it; and if we did it before, we can do it again! Yes, we can reach for that greatness within us and overcome! Regards, SHARMA SOLOMON

Does Dr. Norton deserve a second chance? Dear Editor,

EVERY minister should realise that moral responsibility is a correlation of the oath of office. This is especially important as the country deals with the question of the “Norton Fiasco” concerning the “bond deal”. In no uncertain terms, Dr. Norton, losing his moral compass, betrayed himself, his sense of right and wrong, his office, our president, our nation, and the Guyanese people. Many have clamoured for his censure, but one should also ask whether Norton’s humiliation is apt punishment for his transgression. Does Norton need a second chance?

If he is remorseful because he is trying to escape censure, then he should be censured. If he is remorseful because he truly acknowledges the truth of his inappropriate misstep, then he has the potential to be one of the most loyal and dedicated servants of our country. I cannot pass judgment on Dr. Norton; only he knows his heart. He has to decide on his own to whom he needs to confess, and whether he can honour his oath to serve Guyana honestly and faithfully. And as we focus on Dr. Norton, we should not forget the photograph of Mr. Harmon cruising above the clouds in a private jet. It might be prudent for all ministers to have that photograph in

Assembly in 2010. There is the Linden Commission of Inquiry Report (2013) into the 18th July 2012 police shooting. These are incisive reports, achieved and borne at cost to the State, and they are deserving of attention and having their recommendations implemented. Though negative perceptions of the Force are not unique to Guyana, as evident in countries such as Jamaica and the United States (U.S), Guyana must not be unique in not addressing those perceptions. This society would recall the late Desmond Hoyte, former President of Guyana and Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), and then Leader of the Opposition, making a famous ‘kith and kin’ statement. Where said statement was made during street protests led by the PNCR, and was based on assumption that a predominantly black Police Force would invariably have friends and family members in the protest and would thus be less inclined to deny demonstrators the right to protest, this was not only proven wrong, but became the rallying cry of the opposing side to whip up racial fear. This flip side of Hoyte’s enunciation is also a factor of consideration in modern policing, and one that has been called for in Guyana, though it never materialised in substantial ways. As Guyana tunes in to U.S conversations, it

their sights, physically or mentally. Let them look and analyze the positioning and smiles of the people who were in control in that setting. That photograph has much to tell: sunglasses in a climate-controlled jet, a faceless and nameless woman at one’s shoulder. Yes, I am calling attention to what Norton and Harmon have done, and what they could have become if their actions had not been revealed. If each has the wisdom to recognise the gravity of his actions and each has the strength to refrain from a recurrence of those actions, then each would have been reformed. If the foregoing is missing, what will these men become? We can look, as an example, at the Turn to page 7 ►

is seen that calls are being made at the political leadership to have police officers look like persons in the communities they serve. The Force is a military institution, and training advises that the cue is often taken from the leadership, (political and internal) even in instances when leadership violates laws and transgresses rights. History has shown that those who toe the line in wrongdoing, once countenanced by the leadership, are rewarded with promotion. Recently, there have been bright spots in hearing President Granger, Commander-in-Chief, speaking out against vigilante justice and police shooting of alleged criminals, instead of charging those criminals and bringing them before the court. It was noticed that after his displeasure was made known, the Force moved to act consistent with the laws. The institution of policing serves an invaluable role in society, and it is important in the discharge of responsibility that, relations with the people are improved. Where society is designed on a system of laws, the ability of the Force to honour its motto has to factor in mutual respect for laws, rights of citizens, and the political leadership empowering the institution with requisite skills, training and resources, including appropriate remuneration to do the job.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Final offer to public servants unfair Dear Editor, IT HAS always bothered me how governments tend to become most stingy when it comes to paying workers a living wage. Here, in Guyana -- from Burnham and Jagan to Jagdeo and Ramotar, and now Granger -- Government has come up with all kinds of excuses why its workers should not be paid more. From the 1960s to this present time, government workers have always seemed to have to beg Government for better wages, and consequently have had to take industrial action to force Government’s hand. The

final offer to Public Service workers is obscene, especially coming from a Government that gave itself 50% increase just a year ago. To begin with, the wages of these workers are already extremely low, even by Caribbean standards; they do not earn a living wage by any stretch of the imagination. Here are workers who have to keep Government going being treated as if they do not have a right to life. Public servants in Guyana have never recovered from the IMF conditionalities implemented by the Hoyte government 30 years ago. Their wages have since always

lagged very far behind the cost of living in Guyana. The problem has now become a systemic one that needs aggressive Government intervention. It is a matter of the human right to life, as workers are expected to pay for the bare essentials of life with their wages. It is also a matter of social equality, as most of these workers in the public service come from relatively poor backgrounds. When you keep their wages depressed, you are contributing to the perpetuation of poverty. This Government came to power with the slogan “A good life for all”, but based on this recent wage offer,

Does Dr. Norton deserve...

former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, who was once full of commendable potential. President Jagdeo was my hero when he signed the agreement with Norway to protect Guyana’s forest, but somewhere along the line he was accused of becoming a different being. I do not know the truth in those accusations, but I have read that because his marriage was not registered, his wife was not entitled to a pension. Thus the witnesses to his marriage, the photographs of his wedding, his living

with his wife, his wife being presented as the First Lady of Guyana, did not mean anything to him. Women symbolise our country; if we mistreat our women we mistreat our country. If we honour our women we honour our country. Any minister of Government who yields to self-serving temptation should realise that they are embracing their conceit and it would lead them to a place of no return. I can continue, but let me end with this admonition: We do not need

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race-oriented opposition parties in Guyana; we need inclusive political parties that recognise and acknowledge the different philosophy of each other’s political party; and strive together for equity, justice and prosperity for all Guyanese. These parties should ensure that neither political party nor any of its members transgress the boundaries of office. Regards, STANLEY NIAMATALI

it seems as if the “all” does not include public service workers. What good life can anyone enjoy with the kind of wages public servants earn? Look at the cost for rent, food, clothing, transportation, and other essentials and tell me if the current wages can suffice. Who are public servants? As I already pointed out, they are mostly poor people. A large percentage of them are women who have to sustain children by themselves. Most of them are from one ethnic group; and, very importantly, most of them voted for the Government that is now depressing their wages.

Everything about that scenario is wrong. Government has a moral and political duty to offer the workers much more than the current offer. The union has hinted that it would settle for 20%. That is not adequate, but it would represent a decent start. No, we are not a rich country, but the little revenue we have must be fairly and justly distributed. Look at the tens of millions we are forking out for bonds we do not need; stadiums we could do without; and contracts to big shots who do shoddy work, to name a few extravagances. We didn’t agonise to give our

leaders 50% increases. This Government has to put in effect the vision articulated in its manifesto. The offer to the public servants is most inconsistent with what is in that manifesto. The PPP is gone. While we must, from time to time, draw comparisons between them and the current Government, the latter ultimately has to be evaluated against its own promises. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr. would have said: “Be true to what you put on paper.” Regards, DAVID HINDS

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Smart Hospital initiative’s 2nd phase aims for safe facilities TWENTY five health sector specialists are participating in four-day training in the Hospital Safety Index and Green Economy Checklist Course which began on Monday. Persons benefitting from this training will be carrying out assessments at hospitals across the country. The concept ‘smart hospital’ refers to a health facility which is both safe and green. Hospitals and other facilities embracing this concept must provide standard and efficient health care before, during and even immediately after the event of any natural or other disaster. The smart hospital toolkit will facilitate existing hospitals to identify and implement low- cost adaptation measures. Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, who briefly addressed the gathering at the launch of the training at the Cara Lodge, noted that the vision to see the country revolutionised as a green economy with widespread development in a sustainable manner, has direct bearing on the development of Guyana’s economy into a green one. The training of Engineers, Analysts, Information Technology Personnel, Health Economists and quality control personnel is

a part of the second phase of creating smart health care facilities. These persons trained will be guided by a Green Checklist which will allow them to easily identify areas for evaluation. The Minister added that, “The objective is to equip participants with the requisite knowledge and skill to conduct the assessment that is required to make health facilities throughout the country smart.” The Green Checklist comprises categories of water conservation, energy, solid and infectious waste management, indoor environment quality, food services, pharmaceuticals, hazardous materials and the atmosphere. The US$6M project is being funded by the United Kingdom Department for International Development (DIFID) as part of a US$53M that has been assigned as a project for the development of Caribbean health care facilities. British High Commissioner to Guyana, Gregg Quinn, noted that, “It is a solid commitment by the British Government to the health sector here in Guyana. I think we can all agree that health facilities provide essential services to our daily life. I think we would also agree that after extreme events, it is absolutely vital

Public Health officials and training facilitators at the launch of the Hospital Safety Index and Green Checklist course that they are able to remain operational. That is what our overall programme of assistance is designed to do.” High Commissioner Quinn further explained that although investment into the public health infrastructure is costly, it is necessary and vital and will significantly improve resilience across the health sector in Caribbean countries, including Guyana. Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Public Health, Trevor Thomas pointed out that, “Persons trained in this

programme will have the capacity to provide health care immediately following a disaster…I believe it goes beyond that because many of you may know that Guyana is a very big country relative to its population, a country where majority of the persons are living on the coastland, yet we have our responsibility of providing quality health care across Guyana into its most remote areas.” Thomas added, “It (smart health care facilities) should be sustainable,

it should be manageable, it should have the right mix of resources that is money, material and man power. It must be accessible even in times of crisis. Its resources must also have the capacity to be renewable, renewable energy for example. This is important because Guyana is rich in energy and sometimes as we look at our health facilities, a number of them, we are now including solar facilities, I think that we can start embracing other benefits of nature;

wind, water and the sun.” PAHO/WHO representative, Dr William Adukrow questioned, “We have smart phones, and we have smart cars, why can’t we have smart hospitals?” Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings added, “These health care facilities will be disaster ready; in fact they should be operable in the face of a disaster, so all in all I know that this training will be a very good one.” (GINA)

Survivors in Regent Street smash-up cling to life CONDUCTOR Ronald Maxwell of West Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, injured in Saturday night’s Regent Street accident which claimed the life of one passenger and left several seriously injured, remains in critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The 24-year-old is a patient of the Male Surgical Ward, having sustained five fractured ribs and trauma to the right arm, among other injuries. A visit to the hospital on Monday afternoon saw Maxwell writhing in pain, with a temperature and barely able to speak; but his friend, the full time driver of minibus BTT 7944, translated in part what the injured man was trying to tell this publication. Maxwell said he started working as the conductor of the bus only on Friday night. After filling one bus load and working one trip, he had gone home. The following day, he worked all day until 21:00h or thereabouts, the time of the crash. Meanwhile, 14-year-old Isaac Caesar of Public Road, Kitty, a student of St. Winfried’s Secondary School who was also injured in the smash-up, will be unable to attend school for the opening of the new term. Caesar has suffered a fractured left leg and left arm, and has dislocated

a shoulder. At the time of Guyana Chronicle’s visit to the hospital, he was slipping in and out of consciousness. Doctors are to perform a surgery on this teen, but are unable to do so until his bones are aligned and the swelling on his body subsides. Additionally, 17-year-old Daniel Simpson of Middle Lane, Section B5, Turkeyen, suffered injuries to his neck and abrasions to his face. He was unable to communicate when this publication visited him. At the time of the visit, his grandmother Yvonne Simpson stood at his bedside, saddened by the look of the youngster and the fact that he was unable to speak. Others injured in the smash-up include Manfro Jeffrey, 23, of Trinidad and Tobago, and Trevor Phillips of North Sophia, Greater Georgetown. They were not patients of the GPHC at the time of the visit. On Saturday, off duty policeman Timothy Andrews lost control of the speeding route 40 (Kitty-C/ville) minibus and crashed it into a utility pole. Seven passengers were trapped in the mangled vehicle for some time, before passersby were able to remove them from the vehicle. Reports are that Andrews, who worked the minibus when off policing duties, had just challenged another minibus driver to race along Regent Street.

An injured Daniel Simpson

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Gov’t budgeting for titling of 30 more indigenous communities GOVERNMENT is negotiating with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) -- the project’s oversight body -- to have a four-year extension of the land titling project. Funded through the Guyana Redd + Investment Fund (GRIF) the project comes to end in October 2016. However, if Government is not successful in securing an extension, it has budgeted to cater for titling 30 more communities in 2017. This was disclosed by Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, in an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA). “In the 2017 budget, we have budgeted for that period. If we don’t get the funding needed, we would have enough funding (from 2017) to hopefully do another 30

communities for 2017.” Once the money is acquired, Minister Allicock noted, it would be used to acquire aerial videography services which would hasten the demarcation of boundaries in the communities. At the recently concluded National Toshaos Council (NTC) Meeting, Black Field Area Survey Incorporated made a proposal for a 50 percent discount to the Government for conducting the land survey for the demarcation project. The Minister sees the proposal as feasible, since it would hasten the demarcation process. According to Minister Allicock, the company did a survey in St. Cuthbert’s Mission, and was able to collect findings within four days. “This will help us in the areas of overlapping communities; or if there is doubt where miners are con-

Man charged with death of reputed wife in motorcycle accident motorcycle in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Rice.

Shauna Rice and her son Jine in happier times

ALMOST three months after 29-year-old Shauna Rice was killed in a motorcycle accident along Mandela Avenue, Georgetown, her reputed husband, 31-year-old Steve Fiedtkou of Lot 651 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, has been charged with causing her death by dangerous driving. Feidtkou appeared before City Magistrate Leron Daly and was released on $180,000 bail. The offence was allegedly committed on April 9 at Mandela Avenue as he drove an unregistered

Steve Feidtkou

cerned, if they are intruding, that sort of technology with the drone, it will show you what is happening,” Minister Allicock explained. The Minister pointed out that the use of the technology would not, in any way, put surveyors out of work, but rather help make their work a bit easier. Minister Allicock stated, “This will complement what the surveyors are doing. It would be easier for them to now go on the ground to have their GPS reading and put their plots or reference points.” Ten indigenous communities received land titles from President David Granger on Saturday. The US$10.7M land titling project seeks to enable Indigenous people to secure their lands and natural resources with a view towards sustainable social and economic development. (GINA)

Held for trafficking in persons MARIO Figueroa and Joaquin Fillio on Monday appeared before City Magistrate Leron Daly, charged with nine counts of trafficking in persons. The two men denied the charges, which allege that they engaged in trafficking in persons between August 18 and August 24 at Providence, EBD; where they recruited, transported and harboured nine Brazilian nationals for the purpose of trafficking. According to the men’s lawyer, the Brazilians came to Guyana to perform at a show at Palm Court nightclub, and were staying at Figueroa’s house in Providence. The women were never kept against their will. However, Police Prosecutor Shavon Jupiter explained that the women were held against their will, and were beaten by the men; while Figueroa had allegedly threatened them at gunpoint.

East Coast amputee receives PET Cart AN EAST COAST Demerara (ECD) amputee was recently provided with a Personal Energy Transportation (PET) from Food for the Poor (FFTP) Guyana Incorporated. Michael Abrams of Golden Grove, ECD, whose right leg was amputated just over a year ago, received the PET Cart from FFTP to assist with his mobility;a statement from the non-governmental organisation said on Sunday. The beneficiary expressed gratitude to FFTP for the PET Cart while stating: “I will cherish this until I die.” Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FFTP, Kent Vincent, said that the organization had acquired fourteen PET Carts from the PET Shop in Penney Farms, Florida, USA, via Food for the Poor Inc. Florida and so far two persons have benefited from the donation locally. Vincent explained that the carts assist amputees like Abrams to be mobile, and invited persons with similar disabilities and in need of the PET carts to contact the organization to become a beneficiary.

Brazilian national Joaquin Fillio (front) and Mario Figueroa after their court appearance

The magistrate released Figueroa on $1.8M bail, and remanded Fillio since he was a foreign na-

tional and had no ties to Guyana. The matter stands adjourned until September 14.

FFTP’s CEO, Kent Vincent (Left) shares a moment with recipient of the PET Cart, Michael Abrams

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Guyana beats Venezuela in military patrol competition

WITH a total of 2583 points (75.97%), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) finished ahead of Bolivia, Venezuela, Sri Lanka, and Colombia at the recently concluded,

‘Amazon Military Command International Patrol Competition’, which was conducted at the Jungle Warfare Training School ‘CENTRO DE INSTRU-

CAO DE GUERRA NA SELVA (CIGS), Manaus, Brazil, from August 20-25. CIGS, established in 1964, is known internationally for high quality jungle

training. Since then, it has graduated more than 6,000 Brazilian troops and troops from throughout the world, who would have travelled to Brazil to take part in the

The Guyana Defence Force team performed well at the competition

Shotgun in taxi trunk

A G R I C O L A re s i d e n t s Deon Chan, 29, a taxi driver of Brutus Street, Agricola; and Shamar Charles, 17, of Water Street, Agricola, were on Monday arraigned before city magistrate Leron Daly, jointly charged in connection with a shotgun found in the trunk of a taxi. Particulars of their charge alleged that on Thursday, August 25, at Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, while being in the company of others, they had a shotgun in their possession when neither man was the holder of a firearm licence. Both men denied the charge when it was read to them; and Chan's lawyer, Adrian Thompson, presented a version of what had allegedly transpired on the day in question. He said Chan was hired by the other accused and others to be transported to Diamond. However, the car was intercepted by police, who conducted a search on the vehicle and found the unlicensed shotgun in its trunk. The lawyer said another person who was also a passenger in the car ran away and escaped. Police prosecutor Inspector Shavon Jupiter made no

objection to bail, but requested that reporting conditions be attached if the men were granted their pretrial liberty. The Magistrate granted

them bail on the ground of multiple occupancy of the vehicle, but she detailed the seriousness of the charge. Chan was placed on

Deon Chan and Shamar Charles

$250,000 bail while Charles was placed on $150,000 bail. Both were ordered to return to court on September 9 for statements.

Centre’s specialised jungle training courses. Teams from Brazil’s Amazon Military Command, the North Military Command, the Brazilian Navy and Air Force, as well as teams from Canada, China, East Timor, Germany and Mexico, also participated in the competition, with China winning the competition. Each team comprised 10 members. The immersive five-day competition saw the teams competing in more than 20 events, including shooting from a moving platform, team shooting, as well as seven events relating to anti-smuggling, anti-illegal logging and annihilation operations, in the jungles of Manaus. Tested three times daily and also at nights, teams

were challenged to execute military jungle tactics and apply the relevant knowledge in the jungle environment. The GDF team comprised: Lieutenant (Lt) Lionel Medford (Observer), Lt Simon Gordon, Warrant Officer Class Two Cleveland O’Brien, Sergeants Michael Holder and Cornelius Messiah, Lance Corporals Deon Gilead and Stevie Petrie, and Privates Rod Jeffery, Sean Williams, Timothy Adams and Euclid Wright. Guyana has traditionally subscribed to jungle courses with more than 40 Officers and Ranks trained at that institution. Guyana ranks fourth among foreign nations to have sent the most troops for training there. (GDF)

C/ville drug bust duo remanded FORTY-FIVE-year-old Ameer Mohammed, a fisherman of #37 Village, Corentyne Berbice; and taxi driver Jason Ally, a 37-year-old resident of La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, recently busted in Duncan Street, Campbelville with more than five kilograms of cocaine in a car, appeared on Monday before City Magistrate Leron Daly jointly charged for trafficking narcotics, and were remanded to prison. The allegation they face details that on August 25, in the city ward of Campbellville, the men had five kilograms, 460 grams of cocaine in their possession for the purpose of trafficking. Both men denied the charge, and their lawyer, Paul Fung-a-Fat, requested that they be released on bail since the police had failed to conduct fingerprint testing to see if the men were handling narcotics; and also because his clients had given no caution statement admitting to the crime. The attorney also said that on the day in question, Mohammed was a mere passenger in Ally’s taxi when the car was stopped by the police in Campbellville. Moreover, he said, nothing was found in his clients’ possession, while the police had taken away a quantity of foreign currency from Mohammed. The magistrate overruled the lawyer’s application for bail on ground of the seriousness of the offence, and remanded both men to prison until October 3. According to reports, at about 13:00h last Thursday, police ranks received information upon which they acted, and in so doing intercepted a motor car on Duncan Street, Campbellville. A search was conducted on the two occupants of the vehicle and a bag containing five kilograms, 460 grams of cocaine was found in the car. The police thus arrested both the driver and passenger.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

TVET short of $1B to execute 2016 work programme DURING a stakeholders’ consultation on the draft financing strategy for the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) work programme for 2016, it was disclosed that there exists a deficit of $1.0833B to cover TVET expenditure for the fiscal year 2016. This represents 59 per cent of the finances needed to effectively execute the TVET programme.

for the next four years, and the TVET work programme would be threatened. Against this backdrop, a proposal was made that Government should be solicited to finance 80 per cent of TVET’s Recurrent expenditure, and private and other parties should be solicited to come up with the remaining 20 per cent. Conversely, it was suggested that Government be solicited to finance 35 per

such as the diaspora, students or trainees, and civil society -- can also make contributions in cash or kind. It was explained that international aid donors (IAD) contribute only to Capital expenses; hence IAD can contribute towards expenditure such as the construction of buildings; the purchase of equipment and tools; technical assistance towards the training of staff to upgrade their qualifications and skills.

The Financing Strategy aims to determine the following considerations: The financing deficient gaps -- recurrent and capital -- at January 1, 2016; the recurrent and capital expenditure needs from 2017 to 2020; the various stakeholders likely to finance those expenditures, and the percentage of their contributions. TVET has been identified globally as top priority. It is expected to upgrade nations

TVET Consultant Mr. John Seeram presenting the TVET Draft Financing Strategy to the Stakeholders’ Consultation Meeting at the Guyana Pegasus on Wednesday. Seated from left are: Senior TVET Officer Mr. Jerry Simpson; Technical Facilitator Mr. Vincent Alexander; and Chairman Dr. Leyland Thompson, of the Faculty of Education and Humanities, University of Guyana The sum of $1.0833B represents the difference between what TVET had requested -- $2.620B -– and what it had been offered -- $1.535B. This deficit further represents a shortfall of $152.2M to cover its Recurrent Expenditure, and $931.1M to cover its Capital Expenditure. Recognizing that Government alone cannot finance the programme in its entirety, TVET is now seeking to develop a financing strategy for the period 2017 to 2020, so as to ensure it has adequate finance to execute its work programme. Using 2016 as a base year, it is projected that expenditure for the four-year period would reflect a gap of $15.4367B, representing Recurrent expenditure of $10.7875B and Capital spending in the sum of $4.6492B. FILLING THE GAP Having established the gap as at January 1, 2016, TVET Consultant John Seeram said that without the acquisition of additional funding, there clearly would continue to be gaps

cent of the TVET Capital expenditure; international aid donors finance 30 per cent, and private and other stakeholders finance the remaining 35 per cent in cash or otherwise. For Guyana, it was recommended that, with the agreement of the Private or Public Sector, IPL commence with 1 per cent to be paid by the employer. Also a tax credit can be given (subject to the GRA’s approval) on levies paid. Businesses in the private or public sectors should be asked to contribute grants in the form of cash and in-kind. Others --

Such percentages are subject to further discussions prior to the signing. The draft document recommended that changes be made before the proposals are presented to the Project Steering Committee of CTVET, with a copy of the draft document later being submitted to the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). The financial information for the strategy, Seeram said, was sourced from the National Budget and documents at the respective secretariats of CTVERT and the Ministry of Education.

with a competent and certified workforce that possesses knowledge, technical skills and employability competencies in order to drive economic growth and development. Essentially, the image of TVET is about employment, since the workforce today requires a well-rounded, educated and trained individual. Three main bodies in this system are responsible for TVET in Guyana: Ministry of Education (TVET Department); Ministry of Social Protection (Board of Industrial Training (BIT); and the Council for TVET (CTVET). The TVET

Department is headed by an Assistant Chief Education Officer-Technical and implementation of TVET. Due to limited financial, human and material resources, CTVET would, on the surface, appear slow in attaining its mandate. However, it has attained some major achievements as follows, including the accreditation by CARICOM to issue the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) to those candidates who have satisfied the Caribbean Association of National Authorities (CANTA) criteria and guidelines: Provide technical expertise for several national agencies for their further development in the field of TVET; the Implementation of competency-based training; and a national system of assessment and certification. The report acknowledged that there are challenges facing TVET, such as a workforce with low productivity and narrow skills base, while the demand for skills in the labour market is short of the supply available. It added that the TVET system is yet to achieve the goal of tailoring skills to meet the needs of the economy, while retaining skilled workers in the country so as to prevent a national braindrain. Additionally, it was highlighted in the report that budgetary constraints limit, and continue to limit, investment in the system. Meanwhile, Seeram contended that “the enhancement of the image of TVET through public education and awareness campaign on opportunities for obtaining employability through TVET needs to be more intensified. CVET cannot carry out its mandate with its present staff complement.”

A section of the gathering of stakeholders at the TVET Draft Financing Consultation, held at the Pegasus Hotel on Wednesday

Seeram made the case for the fast-tracking of the Draft Financial Strategy, stating that “CTVET and the Ministries of Education and Social Protection need to have the human, material and financial resources to govern the national TVET system, in order to achieve its goals by 2020.” Through no fault of Government’s, Seeram said, budgetary constraints have been curtailing the development of CTVET/TVET system. “Unless there are adequate finances available, both the human and material resource needs will not be met,” he warned. He called for provision of adequate equipment, tools, computers, accessories, journals and other learning aids for use by the students, as well as the promotion of public education campaigns on both CTVET and TVET with various stakeholders. Additionally, it was agreed that the Private/Public Sector partnership should provide a training levy; upgrade extension of workshops and laboratories; provide financial and material grants, seminars and on-thejob training scholarships for sectors’ staffs to be trained; Civil Society should provide financial and material grants; students should be required to contribute towards registration and certification, and make other contributions arising from the consultation. The report was delivered by TVET Consultant John Seeram at the Stakeholders’ Consultation held Held in the Savannah Suite of the Pegasus Hotel last Wednesday. It was funded by the European Union, in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank. Other key TVET Council members who were present and addressed the forum were: TVET Chairman Dr. Leyland Thompson; Technical Facilitator Mr. Vincent Alexander; and Senior TVET Officer/ Acting Director of CTVET, Jerry Simpson. These all congratulated Mr. Seeram on a detailed and well-presented strategy. Mr. Clinton Williams, who represents the Ministry of Social Protection on the National TVET System, was also present. The turnout was noticeably lower than the attendance at the previous consultation held two months earlier.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

King too ‘soft’-Mayor … says town clerk too lenient with staff

GEORGETOWN Mayor Patricia Chase-Green has said that certain officers of the City Council continue to perform poorly because Town Clerk (TC) Royston King is not taking action against them and is too lenient with them. Questions were being raised recently on how the Town Clerk is managing officers under his supervision. “Because you are not taking action against your officers, and you are being lenient with them, they continue to give you what they’re giving you,” said the Mayor. She made the observation when she was querying why the orders of the council were not followed with regards to arrangements to facilitate a flea market. “You will get the fire because you have to ensure that the instructions are being carried out,” the Mayor told the TC before city councillors.

Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan joined the Mayor and stated that not only does the TC have to control his officers; he has to control his contractors as well. “I was in a very embarrassing situation with Councillor Fraser. A resident called us into Meadow Brook to look at an issue and the contractor, in our presence, said he has no time with 28:01. When a contractor can say that the TC is his friend and he ain’t got no time with the mayor and the deputy mayor… Madam Mayor, we are approaching some dangerous precedence in this council here,” Duncan said. The Mayor responded that this matter was brought to her attention and that the TC has already started to address it. However, she cautioned: “Mr. Town Clerk, I am saying to you if you can’t manage your officers, this council could manage you,”

Town Clerk Royston King the Mayor said to loud applause. “You have got to pull your officers together. If they don’t want to hear, then you will be the one to answer. At the end of the day, it says that the TC is the Chief Administrative Officer of the council who gives instructions to his officers and so you have to do better than what you are doing with

your officers. Every Monday morning you have meetings with your officers, what is coming out of it? Excuses all the time! And so Sir, I am pleading with you. Talk to your officers.” Chase-Green said contractors ought to be aware of the lines they must not cross. “This Mayor don’t give nobody permission. This mayor brings everything to the council. I have nothing to hide. This contractor’s disrespect is unacceptable. There has to be a line that is drawn between friendship and professionalism,” she said. The TC offered that the Deputy Mayor is trying to get him to be responsible for the behavior of officers in the fields. “And that is a very hard thing to do. Sometimes you just cannot control the wild behavior, even if you talk to them,” King pointed out.

FIU top officials to assume duties on Sept 19 The Director and Deputy Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) will assume duties with effect from September 19. The two top anti-corruption officials have since both entered into separate con-

tracts with the Finance Secretary, a release from the Office of the Prime Minister said. The OPM said the information was provided by Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Sherlock Isaacs to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo,

who had inquired whether effect had been given to a decision of the House to appoint the officials. At its Sitting before the August 8 recess, the National Assembly had unanimously appointed Mr. Matthew Hugh Edward Langevine to the post of FIU Director and Mr. Abiose Thomas as Deputy Director. Recommendations for the appointment were made by

an Appointments Committee of the National Assembly. The FIU is a specialised body that was created under the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act which was made into law by the new Coalition Government. The Clerk of the National Assembly explained that he acted expeditiously to give effect to the decision of the House.

Wanted bulletin out for alleged human trafficker POLICE on Monday issued a wanted bulletin for a man in relation to human trafficking and forgery at the Central Immigration and Passport Office, Camp Street. Kirk Errol Paton is wanted by the police for questioning in relation to ‘Trafficking in Person and Forgery’ on November 06, 2014 and anyone with information that may lead to his arrest is asked to contact the police. Human trafficking remains a major problem here and only last week Social Protection Minister, Volda Lawrence urged Amerindian leaders to play their part in eliminating TIP. During an interactive session at the just concluded National Toshaos Conference Lawrence was asked what follow- up services are being offered by the ministry to young people who have been sexually assaulted or trafficked. The minister in her response pointed out that counselling is provided, however the Ministry is faced with a shortage of KIRK ERROL PATON Probation Officers. To address the problem, the Ministry is currently re-assigning the task of these officers to facilitate more time and focus on following-up on pending cases and support for victims, she explained. Further, Minister Lawrence noted that she recently returned from Kwakwani, Region 10, where she saw a ‘child holding a child.’ “It was a 13- year old child, who is the mother of a one-year plus son, and nobody said anything, not the police, not the Community Health Worker, nobody,” she stressed. The United States in its 2016 TIP report called on the Guyana Government to vigorously investigate and prosecute sex and labour trafficking cases here and hold convicted traffickers accountable- including complicit officials by imposing sentences that are commensurate with the severity of the crime. Guyana was taken off the watchlist for TIP, moving from Tier 2 on the Watch List to Tier Two. Guyana was placed on the Tier Two Watch List three years ago and has since mounted numerous efforts to improve its rating. In addition to calling for holding TIP offenders accountable, the US is recommending the denying of bail and ordering restitution, where appropriate. It also called on the Guyana Government to finalise and issue written procedures to guide and encourage front-line officials, including police, health, immigration, labour, mining, and forestry personnel to identify and protect victims of forced labour and sex trafficking. The United States also wants Guyana to train law enforcement, judiciary officials, and front-line responders, especially those working outside the capital, on victim identification, referral to services, and victim-centered investigations. “Allocate additional staff to the inter-ministerial anti-trafficking unit and provide sufficient funding and resources for it to investigate trafficking in the mining sector and conduct awareness campaigns; provide additional protection for victims to enable them to appear in court and testify against traffickers in a way that does not further endanger them,” the US Government recommended. Washington called on Guyana to increase funding for NGOs that identify and assist victims; take efforts to ensure victims are not summarily deported without the opportunity to assist in a trial against their traffickers; and also that they are not penalised for crimes committed as a result of being subjected to trafficking.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

PPP calls for across the board tax-free overtime THE Opposition People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) has not only endorsed Government’s decision to reinstate tax-free overtime for bauxite workers but has called for similar concessions to be granted across the board. During the party’s weekly press conference at Freedom House, General Secretary, Clement Rohee said PPP supports any approach that will enhance the economic and financial wellbeing of the working class. “The PPP is of the view t h a t Ta x - f r e e o v e r t i m e should be granted across the board without discrim-

ination, and sugar workers should be no exception,” Rohee told reporters on Monday. PPP’s call comes on the heels of Government’s announcement that workers in the bauxite industry will soon benefit from tax-free overtime. In a meeting with the management of the Bauxite Company Guyana Inc. (RUSAL) last week, Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence said it was a done deal, explaining that the Finance Minister Winston Jordan will soon make a pronouncement on the matter.

PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee “This is a done deal, the workers will be given their tax exemptions on overtime,” Minister Lawrence had said. Tax-free concession on

overtime work was implemented in 1988. This concession was enjoyed by workers up until 2007 when it was arbitrarily taken away by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Administration. The move by the PPP Administration had adversely affected the earnings of bauxite workers from Linden and Kwakwani, and was seen as a punitive exercise for not supporting the PPP. When the announcement was initially made in December, 2015, General Secretary of the Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC) Lincoln Lewis said the Government

was moving in the right direction. He explained that tax-free concessions were granted to bauxite workers in 1988 following an inquiry by Edgar Heyliger. Subsequently, he said, sugar workers benefited from the tax-free concessions. “What that government did when it came to power was to take it away. The (Bharrat) Jagdeo Administration took it away from bauxite workers but it remained in the sugar industry,” Lewis contended. He too is of the opinion that the act by the then Government was a deliberate one.

Notwithstanding the past actions of the PPP on the tax-free overtime concession, Lewis said he was “encouraged” by government’s move to reinstate tax-free overtime to bauxite workers. “I would be happy if the government sees it fit that it remains in the sugar industry,” he added. Asked if he believes other sectors should benefit from the same concession, the GTUC leader said given the current reform of the tax system, “we have to seek ways and means to make sure that people are not overtaxed regardless of what sector they are in.”

Police probing Guyana-Peru fake currency ring LOCAL authorities are probing an alleged counterfeit currency ring that involves operatives from Guyana and Peru. A top official of the Bank of Guyana told the Guyana Chronicle on Monday that the police have been alerted and are currently investigating. This official disclosed that counterfeit /forged currency notes are allegedly coming out of Peru, and appealed to citizens to be alert when transacting business.

Contacted on the issue, Acting Crime Chief Hugh Jessamy confirmed that an investigation has been launched, and alluded to a report appearing on Monday in another section of the media to the effect that a Kitty grocer was conned into changing a fake US$50 note into local currency. Jessamy also warned citizens to be careful in transacting business, especially when foreign currencies are involved. “Persons have be-

come brilliant and have been making (detection of) forged currencies almost impossi-

ble for the average man to decipher,” the police officer warned.

Incidents of counterfeiting had greatly decreased on the local scene, and this had led to the Police Force paying less attention to the issue, the Acting Crime Chief explained. The last major report on the issue came last year when the Guyana Chronicle reported that a man was moving around the city with counterfeit US$100 bills, which he has been passing off on unsuspecting persons, particularly female roadside food and snack vendors

around the city. Such cases, the acting Crime Chief explained, are hard to crack down on, since persons who are caught with forged currencies usually say they had received same from someone else, and the trend continues from there. He, however, stressed that the GPF intends to study the issue carefully and ensure that it gets down to the bottom of the alleged scheme.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Banks DIH awards successful NGSA students BANKS DIH Limited has presented bursaries to 24 children of shareholders and employees who were successful at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). On Saturday at the company’s Sports Club at Thirst Park, Gavin Todd,

Engineering Executive of Banks DIH Limited congratulated the recipients of bursaries and challenged them to strive for excellence during their secondary school lives. “Today, Banks DIH limited is joining with your loved ones in saying thanks

to you for showing us your strengths and potentials. We honour you with bursaries which will, among other things, assist you in secondary school over the next five years,” Todd said. He also informed the students of the career options available at the bev-

erage giant. Communications Manager Troy Peters said the bursary awards ceremony was an important event on the annual calendar of Banks DIH Limited. Peters said the beverage giant was committed to the educational development of the

children of its employees and shareholders. The 2016 recipients are: Anjali Maharaj, Reuel Prashad, Tsalaya Congreaves, Jochen Camacho, Isabella Balli, Raoul Nicholls, Danielle Khan, Monita White, Tsayahpet Adams, Roy

Khadoo, Shaleeza Hamid, Aditya Challu, Zeelina Khan, Jorryn Payne, Mark Bentinck, Arvin Deodat, Mariel Hopkinson, Julisha Moses, Ambika Singh, Shania Lall, Beyonce Schultz, Dillaine Marville, Jamal Austin and Akency Durante.

Banks DIH officials pose with the bursary awardees

QC student again awarded for outstanding performance QUEEN’S COLLEGE student Jamal Thomas is yet again beneficiary of the Guyana Association of Private Security Organisations’ (GAPSO) 5th annual bursary awards. Held on August 24 last, the award ceremony was in recognition of Thomas’s continued outstanding academic performance since completion of the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) exams. A press statement issued by GAPSO said the QC student became the recipient of the award in 2012 when he wrote the NGSA examinations and secured a space at the country’s leading secondary school. Thomas has since maintained an outstanding academic record, and

has also been outstanding in extracurricular activities. He is the son of Milton Thomas of the Bank of Guyana’s Security Department. In 2012, the bursary award was named in honour of the late Gregory Gaskin, former attorney-at-law and Chairman of COPS (Guyana) Limited, now known as Sentinel Security Services. Gaskin was instrumental in establishing GAPSO. A beneficiary of this GAPSO award must be a child of a member of GAPSO whose academic performance has been outstanding at the NGSA exams; and once the child’s performance remains satisfactory, that child can continue being a beneficiary of the GAPSO award. Clyde Layne, Treasurer of GAPSO, hands over a cheque to Jamal Thomas as his father, Milton Thomas, (second from right) and other members of GAPSO look on

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Living with chainsaws and jaguars

‒ The forestry operation in a protected forest that is welcomed by local communities By Neil Marks From the air, the Iwokrama forest appears as if it is a giant broccoli field. You’d hardly know they are cutting down trees and processing the logs into sawn wood which would then be shipped to buyers in New Zealand, Italy, the UK and elsewhere. You’d be surprised to know too that the operations seem to be little bother to the animals around, or at least, if they are annoyed by the noise from the chainsaw and other machinery, they’d retreat for a while and then return. Imagine Matta Hallet’s delight then when one of the camera traps he set up in the forest was able to pick up a photo of a couple of the rare bush dogs, which were not previously documented as being part of the incredible biodiversity of the Iwokrama forest. “It really shows that the logging activity itself, the way they do it, allows even rare animals that are very shy, such as bush dogs, to co-exist with the activities that are going on,” says Hallet, a Florida student who is studying how human activity, such as logging, affects the movement of animals. Lucy Marslow, a 30-yearold native woman of the Arawak and Macushi nations, knows the Iwokrama forest all too well. She serves as the toshao, or village leader of Fairview, the only community within the boundaries of the Iwokrama forest, which measures 371, 00 hectares. To get there, you’d spend about two hours on bitumen road from the capital Georgetown and then about another six hours on a horrendous dirt road before you come to a stop at Kurupukari, where a pontoon would take you across the river to the edge of the forest. “You can still go out a mile from the community, or closer, and see jaguar tracks; you can see the deer or tapir too,” she says. “This logging don’t really disturb them because of the high standard of logging. “They don’t take everything that is there, they do selective logging; and there are are buffer zones, so they

log away from rivers, valleys, swamps, and so where the animals use.” The logging operations form part of the goal of Iwokrama. The forest was pledged to the Commonwealth – a group of nations formerly ruled by England - back in 1989 by then President Desmond Hoyte to be used “in a manner that will lead to lasting ecological, economic and social benefits to the people of Guyana and the world in general.” Arising out of President Hoyte’s pledge, legislation was passed in 1996 to govern the use of the forest, and the Iwokrama International Centre was set up to oversee the experiment. Last November, the Centre announced that it had teamed up with local company Farfan and Mendes to undertake a second project to test the sustainable use of the forest, essentially that you can use the forest without destroying, or losing it. Lucy, a forest ranger, also trained in forest inventory and log scaling, has no qualms about supporting the project. She knows how Iwokrama works. “They have respect for the wildlife; if they go to do logging and they find a Harpy Eagle nest on a tree, they leave that tree,” she tells the Guyana Chronicle. Lucy is also pleased about the fact that 14 of 304 persons who make up her village are employed by the Iwokrama. T h e f o r est is zoned into a Sustainable Utilization Area (SUA) and a Wilderness Preserve (WP). Under the Iwokrama Act, 108,433 hectares of the forest was deemed suitable by the Centre’s Forestry Management for sustainable forestry in accordance with Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) and Forest Stewardship Council guidelines. It is in this area that Farfan and Mendes, the largest local supplier of equipment to the local timber industry, carries out its operations. The decision of what trees to fell and where they are located is monitored and supervised by Iwokrama. Apart from Fairview,

Adon Jacobus

Lucy Marslow

Nigel John

Tigercat 6x6 grapple skidder

Iwokrama brings together 15 other communities of approximately 7,000 people who co-manage the forest. BEST PRACTICES “The people of the community have an input of how we log and where we log,” says Andrew Mendes, the Managing Director of the Farfan and Mendes, the company which introduced the chainsaw to the local timber industry in 1967. The company employs best practices in forestry, including a strict no-log export policy and the employment of Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) and Directional Felling (DF) techniques. “The Iwokrama effect” For Mr Mendes, what his company is doing at Iwokrama not only contributes to the debate about climate change and the need to use the forest in a sustainable manner, but it also makes economic sense. The description of the local industry 90 years ago and today remains the same - the industry produces large sawn baulks for marine construction and poorly dressed

green lumber for local consumption. For Farfan and Mendes, that makes no sense and it intends to freely share its expertise with others in Guyana, so as to create “the Iwokrama effect.” Because of poor processing and grade recovery, it takes 6 – 8 m3 of log to produce 1 m3 of First and Seconds (FAS) grade sawn lumber. Mr Mendes says this is a direct result of cutting to order verses cutting for grade. With Farfan and Mendes, it takes 2 – 2.5 m3 to achieve the same result. That’s why, he says, Farfan and Mendes has taken “the time and money to set this operation up right in the first place so we can do it right.” For example, he says using the Tigercat 6x6 grapple skidder is much more efficient than cable skidders. Due to the use of the grapple, larger loads with less ground pressure leads to higher productivity with less impact. The local daily skidding average per machine is 20 – 30 m3, while Farfan and Mendes averages 150 m3 with one

machine. With the Iwokrama project, he says the company does not cut orders from the log but saws for grade, “rough mill” to produce the final dimension, and sells from an inventory of sawn lumber so it can have shorter and on time delivery. Under Iwokrama’s highly selective harvesting programme, only 3 to 4 trees are cut in each hectare, that is approximately one in 20 at most, and each harvested hectare will not be revisited for 60 years. The harvesting operation creates no aerial or on-theground visual impact and there are no noticeable gaps in the forest canopy in harvested areas. Mendes says his company sees saving the environment and profit as mutually complimentary goals. “Any unplanned or non –productive movement of our machinery costs us money, therefore efficiency in operations actually reduces the environmental footprint while at the same time increases profitability.” “The project within the

Iwokrama is that they are trying to use this project to show how they can manage, work while protecting do sustainable,” says Nigel John, the village leader of Apoteri, a village of 288 persons located 75 kilometres from the Iwokrama base. “This will show the world – provide a model - that shows you can have resources in your community but at the same time you can bring income by using it wisely.” Adon Jacobus, the village leader of Aranaputa, has five of his village’s boys who just left high school working at the project site. The project provides employment for the boys, who would have either been out of a job after completing high school, or would have ended up in the gold mines. Aranaputa, like Apoteri and Fairview, form part of the villages of the North Rupununi, which have sanctioned the project. “Iwokrama is a model throughout Guyana in terms of sustainable forestry,” Jacobus notes. “We want to show the rest of the world how the forest can be protected but at the same time benefit us.” For the village leader of Rewa, the project presents an opportunity for residents to be trained in sustainable use of the forests. The village has applied for an extension of its titled land. “We want an extension, so we can benefit from more of what is on our lands, but how will me manage it? “The training form Iwokrama is invaluable.” Farfan and Mendes insists its work is methods of operation are in rigid confirmation with the ten principles for responsible forest management, including the need to maintain high conservation value of forest. The village leaders of Fairview and the other communities around Iwokrama have no quarrel that the company is doing otherwise. “Timber is a substantial resource in the Iwokrama Forest and therefore the model we are developing is very well aligned with our goals and mission,” says Dane Gobin, chief executive officer of Iwokrama.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Old cable, poor distribution system blamed for frequent - Private contractors to be paid by end of September blackouts

Garbage collection schedule changed

THE CENTRAL business district in Georgetown will now be cleared of garbage only once a day, following a decision by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to suspend the services of private garbage contractors. In the past, garbage was removed from the business district twice daily, while residential garbage was removed twice weekly. Residential garbage collection has now been reduced to once weekly. The M&CC has said its garbage trucks would serve West Ruimveldt on Mondays; East Ruimveldt on Tuesdays; Middle Road La Penitence on Wednesdays; East La Penitence on Thursdays, and North East La Penitence on Fridays. Town Clerk Royston King told Guyana Chronicle on Monday that the new system is working well, given the Council’s “very, very limited” resources. He said the once daily clearing of garbage for businesses is not sufficient, but is the best the Council could do, given its financial constraints. The Council, he added, was optimistic that there would be a different cost for the collection of commercial waste during

2017. He noted that it was unfair for businesses to be paying the same amount as residents. “It’s a very expensive service, and we need to separate the two,” King said, because it is imperative that businesses have adequate garbage receptacles so that refuse does not spill on to the pavements and thoroughfares. King made it clear that the suspension of business between the council and the private garbage contractors is temporary. He said the services of private garbage contractors are important, but the Council is not in a position to utilise those services currently, due to financial challenges. He disclosed that both Puran Brothers Disposal Services and Cevon’s Waste Management would be paid their outstanding balances by the end of September. “We remain very grateful to these contractors for their patience, understanding and cooperation. They continued working while waiting for their money. We hope that this period will not affect our long-term relationship,” King said. (Telesha Ramnarine)

CCWU- Clarke elects new Executive returns as President FOLLOWING the Fourth Triennial Delegates’ Conference of the Clerical and Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU) held at its headquarters, 140 Quamina Street, South Cummingsburg, on August 20 and 21, 2016, the union has released the names of the new Executive elected to run its affairs for the next three years. Sherwood Clarke has returned as President, Kim Halley, Vice President and Bhagan Sukhai, second Vice President.

Meanwhile, Andrea Joseph has been elected Principle Assistant General Secretary, while Simone Greene will serve as Assistant General Secretary. Marvin Younge will now serve as Field Secretary with Kobina Paul and Oslen Maison serving as Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer respectively. Additionally, Marvin Cato, Sean Nestor, Deon Mc Kenzie and Jagdeo Paul were elected as members of the Committee.

The old submarine cable for the Vreed-en-Hoop power station is responsible for the recent blackouts, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson said. The minister told the Government Information Agency (GINA) on Monday that the submarine cable for the Vreed-en-Hoop station in Region Three is damaged, and that normally when the power outage occurs, the power would be reconnected immediately since there is in excess of 16 megawatts of power. However, the Minister said, “If the light trips again, it blocks the entire area,” so the lights would have to be reconnected in sections, which is the cause of the problem. “As we find them (problems) we reconnect, but unfortunately it disconnects before you can identify where to fix because it’s a very old system,” the Minister said. The Minister explained that he recently met with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Board to improve response time to at least 15 minutes. However, efforts are underway to repair the cable, but the operation is specialised so quotations are out and work would commence shortly, Minister Patterson explained. In Demerara, it’s not a question of generators, since all the generators are working, but it is a question of the distribution system, Minister Patterson reiterated. The aged system is ineffective and results in frequent blackouts in the East Bank, West Bank and East Coast Demerara areas. “The system trips, and when it trips we have to close the circuit immediately, and that is the primary cause of the blackouts,” the Minister said. The Infrastructure Minister explained that efforts are being made to implement a programme to upgrade the distribution system, and the contract will be awarded shortly. Priority will be on fixing the old distribution system to make it more effective, Minister Patterson pointed out. (GINA)

Woman faints after hearing of $1M compensation

Phinthia Frank placed in the Ambulance

AN AMBULANCE was summoned to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday after a woman who was charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm fainted. She had just heard the amount of compensation the victim was asking for in the courtroom of magistrate Annette Singh. Ambulance attendants and police officers had to lift Phinthia Frank using a chair to get her into the ambulance. It is alleged that on August 4, 2016 at Stabroek Market, Frank unlawfully and maliciously inflicted grievous bodily harm upon Sandy Watts. Frank was accused of stealing Watts’ phone. An argument ensued between the two. Frank is alleged to have attacked Watts throwing a substance on her face, causing her skin to burn. In court on Monday, Frank, who is four months’ pregnant fainted after she heard that Watts was willing to accept $1 million dollars as compensation. She has to undergo a surgery to an eye as a result of the incident. The matter was adjourned until November 11.

Businessman remanded over Tucville driveway shooting ROBERT Benn, the businessman and licensed firearm holder who allegedly shot and killed 24-year-old Colin Perreira and injured his girlfriend after they had driven on his Perry Street, Tucville driveway, was remanded to prison on Monday when he appeared before City Magistrate Leron Daly, charged with the capital offence of murder and attempted murder. Benn has been charged with murdering Colin Perreira, called ‘Malcolm’, of Barr Street, Kitty on August 24 at Tucville; and has been further charged with discharging a loaded firearm at 22-year-old Gail-Ann Chachon with intent to murder her on the said day and at the said location. Attorney-at-law Ronald Burch-Smith, representing the businessman, said Benn deeply regrets and is remorseful for his actions. He said his client was living in fear since several threats had been made on his life. “My client was living in fear since persons had threatened to attack, rob and kill him,” Burch-Smith told the court. The lawyer contended that his client felt threatened when

he saw the car turning on his bridge, since he believed the vehicle had potential bandits, so he shot at it. The lawyer questioned Police Prosecutor Shavon Jupiter, asking why his client was being charged for murder and not manslaughter, since the killing was not deliberate and premeditated. However, Prosecutor Jupiter stated that police investigation was still ongoing, and Chachon was still hospitalized. After hearing both sides, the magistrate remanded Benn until September 16. According to reports, at about 21:30h on August 24, Perreira was driving a heavily tinted motor car and the other victim was seated in the front passenger seat. He attempted to turn the vehicle on the defendant’s driveway; and, in the process, the suspect, who was in his yard, drew his handgun and discharged several rounds at the vehicle, hitting the victims about their bodies. Perreira was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), while Chacon is said to be in a stable condition.

Dead: Malcolm Perreira

Robert Benn

Man on bribery charge remanded again VEERSAMMY Narine, 52, of Robb and Alexander Streets, Bourda, Georgetown, was further remanded after he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday, in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. It is alleged that Narine offered a detective attached to the Criminal Investigations Unit (CID), Eve Leary, Georgetown, $400,000 as inducement for him to suppress evidence in a murder case. Police say that on August 20, at (CID) Headquarters, Narine offered Detective Inspector Suraj Singh the cash as a reward or inducement for him to show favour to one Dennis Veersammy. Narine is a relative of Dennis Veersammy, one of the three men charged for the murder of Shameer Ali Mursalin, a former businessman. Mursalin, of Grant 1805 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Berbice was fatally shot to the head on October 24, 2015. Another bail application was made by Narine’s attorney- at-law on behalf of the defendant. The lawyer told the court that his client recently had a surgery and he has to undergo further surgery in the USA next month. The Police Prosecutor objected to bail stating that Narine may want to interfere with other witnesses who are involved in the preliminary inquiry of a murder matter at Springlands Magistrate Court. The bail application was refused by Magistrate Latchman and he remanded the defendant to prison until September 9. As reported by the police Narine turned up at CID Headquarters to hand over $100,000 of a $400,000 sum, to the policeman. After appearing to agree to the offer, the detective notified his superiors and a trap was arranged. Narine was taken into custody when he showed up with the cash. The police reportedly have video and audio evidence of the hotel owner offering the bribe and Veersammy Narine handing over the money.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Home of Enmore businessman robbed - One bandit apprehended, five on the run

SWIFT action by the police and villagers on Monday afternoon saw the arrest of one of six bandits after a Logwood, Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD) businessman was robbed of an undisclosed amount of cash. At approximately 15:00h, residents recalled seeing a silver grey Toyota 212 motorcar circling the home of a well-known businessman. But it was after a group of six persons exited the car and jumped the grilled gate that residents called the police. Ranks from ‘C’ Division responded quickly to the calls and upon their arrival exchanged gunfire with the bandits who started shooting first. According to reports, no one was injured during the shootout, but the law enforcement officers pursued the group of armed men and apprehended one person. A gun was said to have been found in his possession. Meanwhile, Guyana Chronicle understands that a young man who was at home at the time of the robbery was gun butted in the head several times by a bandit while the others ransacked the house in search of money and other valuables. The Longwood businessman’s home was well equipped with surveillance cameras but it is unclear whether the incident was recorded as the traumatised victims declined to speak with the media. Up to press time, investigators were in search of the other bandits.

Kissoon asks magistrate to recuse herself NEWSPAPER columnist and activist Freddie Kissoon on Monday, via letter, asked City Magistrate Judy Latchman to recuse herself from presiding over the matter which involves him against People’s Progressive Party (PPP) members Kwame McCoy and Jason Abdulla, and former bodyguard Shawn Hinds. Defendant’s lawyers Euclin Gomes and George Thomas told the court that they felt the business of the court could not be disrupted unless by an order of a supreme body, such as the Judicial Service Commission. They both asked the court to continue with the matter unless stated otherwise. The Magistrate informed Kissoon that she would continue with the trial, since she was not instructed to do otherwise. Kwame McCoy, 40, Jason Abdulla, 34, and former bodyguard Shawn Hinds, 51, are charged with assaulting Kissoon, by dousing him with human faeces during an attack in 2010. Monday’s court proceeding continued and Kissoon was further cross-examined by Thomas. The matter will continue before magistrate Latchman on September 9.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Dismembered body of farmer found on Linden Highway

THE DISMEMBERED body of 41-year-old Philip Viveirous was discovered by passersby at approximately 05:40hrs on Monday in the vicinity of the Adventure Public Road at Dalgin, Linden/Soesdyke Highway, East Bank Demerara. The farmer’s relatives say he had left his Adventure home

Thief steals car as driver sleeps Kubair Balram is seeking the assistance of the general public in locating his white Spacio HC 4174 which was reportedly stolen at Old Road, Eccles, East Bank Demerara, on Sunday night. At the time the vehicle disappeared it was parked in front of the driver’s house at Lot 75 Old Road, Eccles. The driver has been identified as Zaman Ali, who has been driving the said vehicle since it was purchased by the owner. The missing car was attached to Flamboyant Taxi Service, also located at Eccles, where it worked the day shift. According to Ali, he parked the vehicle as usual and before he retired to bed at about midnight it was there but when he woke up the following morning it was gone. The Spacio is not outfitted with a functional alarm system. However, a shop within close proximity has surveillance cameras and the car's owner is hopeful it may have recorded the incident. A report was made to Providence Police Station where a probe has been launched to locate the vehicle. The Balrams of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, bought the vehicle five years ago and gave it to Ali to drive as a taxi. Persons with information which may lead to the recovery of the said vehicle are asked to contact the nearest police station or 690-3200 or 671-3200.

Tuesday August 30th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Wednesday August 31th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Thrusday September 1st, 2016 - 10:30 hrs

at approximately 02:00hrs on Monday to go to his farm, and had been drinking before he left for the farm. As far as they are aware, Viveirous had no problem with anyone that would have resulted in his death. Ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) ‘E’ Division are currently investigating the circumstances of this farmer’s death. Traffic Inspector Matthew Craig told Guyana Chronicle that based on preliminary findings, Viveirous may have been lying on the road while drunk, and was probably hit by a vehicle. “If he was standing, there would have been debris and other particles on the road…. The road was clean, his leg was off, pieces of flesh were scattered on the road, but there was no debris on the road,” Craig explained. Guyana Chronicle understands that Viveirous’s father was killed in an accident at the same location last year. Viveirous leaves to mourn his mother and other relatives.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:40 hrs Future Fantastic 09:15 hrs Leila’s Charger 09:50 hrs Pivotal Pursuit 10:25 hrs Hidden Agenda 11:00 hrs Sweet Chestnut English Racing Tips Goodwood 08:50 hrs For The Roses 09:25 hrs Heartstone 10:35 hrs Sea Of Snow 11:10 hrs St Michel 11:45 hrs Gung Ho Jack 12:20 hrs Petrify Epsom 09:00 hrs Fair Power 09:35 hrs Pioneering 10:10 hrs Spirit Of Zeb 10:45 hrs Exoplanet Blue 11:20 hrs Alsacienne 11:55 hrs Choral Festival Hamilton 09:15 hrs Frozen Kiss 09:50 hrs Thank You Stars 10:25 hrs Intalza 11:00 hrs Lincoln Rocks 11:35 hrs Calliope 12:10 hrs La Casa Tarifa 12:40 hrs Napoleon Solo American Racing Tips Indiana Downs Race 1 True to You Race 2 Dynaskra Race 3 Daddy’s Placer Race 4 You See It Race 5 Grits N Gravy Race 6 I See London Race 7 Angelic Score

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Proteas in command as wickets tumble at Centurion By Mark Gleeson

PRETORIA, South Africa (Reuters) - South Africa slid to 105 for six on the third day of the second and final Test against New Zealand yesterday but were still firmly in command at Centurion, holding a 372run lead. After bowling the Kiwis out for 214, the hosts did not enforce the follow-on as the pitch is getting more and more difficult for the batsmen. New Zealand's bowlers took six wickets in the last session of the day with only stand-in opener Quinton de Kock (50) offering any resistance as Stephen Cook, Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, captain Faf du Plessis and Stiaan van Zyl went cheaply.

Kagiso Rabada bowled with a lot of pace to take three for 62.

de Kock played a characteristically aggressive innings, hitting the first four balls he faced to the boundary. Temba Bavuma (25) and Vernon Philander (3) were the unbeaten batsmen at the close of play. Tim Southee and Trent Boult claimed two wickets apiece. "The longer the sun bakes down and the cracks widen and the deeper the Test goes, the less chance there is for the team batting last. There is no point declaring overnight," South Africa paceman Dale Steyn told reporters. New Zealand responded in the last session to a pep talk, said all-rounder Doug Bracewell. "We spoke about giving everything for a session. It's a funny old game, anything can happen yet," he added.

SCOREBOARD

SOUTH AFRICA 1st innings 481 for 8 (F. du Plessis 112no, J. Duminy 88, Q. de Kock 82, H. Amla 58, S. Cook 56; N. Wagner 5-86) NEW ZEALAND 1st innings (o/n 38-3) M. Guptill c van Zyl b Philander 8 T. Latham c de Kock b Steyn 4 K. Williamson c de Kock b Rabada 77 R. Taylor run-out (Bavuma) 1 H. Nicholls lbw b Rabada 36 B. Watling c de Kock b Steyn 8 M. Santner b Philander 0 D. Bracewell lbw b Rabada 18 T. Southee c de Kock b Piedt 8 N. Wagner c de Kock b Steyn 31 T. Boult not out 0 Extras:(b-5, lb-2, nb-1, w-15) 23 Total: (all out, 58.3 overs) 214 Fall of wickets: 1-13, 2-13, 3-26, 4-86, 5-106, 6-111, 7-144, 8-169, 9-214. Bowling: D. Steyn 20-3-66-3 (w-1), V. Philander 15-1-43-2, K. Rabada 16.3-4-62-3 (nb-1, w-2), D. Piedt 7-0-36-1.

SOUTH AFRICA 2nd innings S. Cook lbw b Boult 4 Q. de Kock c Williamson b Bracewell 50 H. Amla c Guptill b Southee 1 J. Duminy lbw b Southee 0 F. du Plessis c Taylor b Boult 6 T. Bavuma not out 25 S. van Zyl c Watling b Wagner 5 V. Philander not out 3 Extras: (b-4, nb-1, w-6) 11 Total: (for 6 wickets, 34 overs) 105 Fall of wickets: 1-31, 2-32, 3-32, 4-47, 5-82, 6-98. Bowling: T. Southee 10-5-27-2 (w-1), T. Boult 8-0-38-2, D. Bracewell 7-2-19-1, N. Wagner 9-1-17-1 (nb-1, w-1).

Earlier, New Zealand started their first innings on 38 for three and, despite a determined knock from Kane Williamson, lost wickets regularly until tea when the captain was the last batsman to fall. Williamson's 77 came off 133 balls and, apart from an entertaining cameo by tail-ender Neil Wagner, there were few other batting posi-

tives for the Kiwis. Pretoria-born Wagner hit Steyn to all corners of the ground as he crashed 31 in 30 deliveries before the fast bowler had him caught behind. Steyn ended with figures of three for 66 while Kagiso Rabada picked up three for 62. The first Test was drawn.

Unitedâ€™s unbeaten run helps build momentum â€’ Rooney (REUTERS) - Manchester United's unbeaten start to the Premier League has helped the club build momentum before the derby clash against Manchester City, striker Wayne Rooney has said. Marcus Rashford slotted in a winner in stoppage time against Hull City last weekend to ensure that Jose Mourinho's side were tied at the top of the Premier League on nine points after three league games. However, Rooney, who scored in United's 3-1 victory against Bournemouth in their opening league game, urged his team not to take their foot off the pedal against City, who also remain unbeaten this season. "It's early but you want to try to build momentum and especially going into the international break," Rooney told British media. "To go there with three

wins is important and with the next game being Man City it was a big win for us, even though it's so early in the season. "We know whatever happens against City isn't going to define the season but it's always nice to go into that break with the three wins." Mourinho and City manager Pep Guardiola will renew their rivalry when the two Manchester clubs meet on September 10 at Old Trafford, and Rooney said there was an air of excitement ahead of the eagerly anticipated clash. "It's a game players, staff, media, fans, everyone will be looking forward to," he added. "It's a Manchester derby but also with Jose and Pep Guardiola at Man City. "It's exciting for everyone and exciting to play in."

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Dilshan bemoans lack of support RHTYSC, ACC slam GCB over Jaguars and takes Mathews dig TILLAKARATNE Dilshan took a dig at Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews after ending his stellar one-day international career and bemoaned the lack of support he was given during his tenure as skipper. The flamboyant opening batsman's 330th and final ODI ended in defeat against Australia on Sunday, but the 39-year-old was able to sign off with an entertaining 42 and take a tricky catch. Dilshan was given a guard of honour by his teammates when he went out to bat in Dambulla and a rousing reception after he was dismissed. But the veteran took a swipe at some of those same teammates and questioned Mathews' conduct, in particular when reflecting on his spell as captain from April 2011 to January the following year. "I didn't actually plan to take the captaincy, but the SLC (Sri Lanka Cricket)

Tillakaratne Dilshan questioned how Angelo Mathews was suddenly able to resume bowling after the opener's spell as captain ended.

president asked me to take over for six months until we find someone else," said Dilshan. "Unfortunately, we had also lost two bowlers. Murali (Muttiah Muralitharan) had retired. Nuwan Kulasekara was injured. Ajantha Mendis was injured. I didn't have great resources. "Angelo Mathews had a calf injury for a year that stopped him from bowling. That must be because of my misfortune, because after I

had stepped down, we went to Australia after a week. In that week, Mathews started bowling. That must be because of Mahela's good fortune." Dilshan, who will face Australia in two Twenty20 internationals next month, said the time was right to call time on a long ODI career in which he scored 10 290 runs at an average of 39.27 and made 22 centuries. He added: "I hadn't

planned to retire, before the series. Whether someone tells me to keep playing or stop playing, that's not what's important. What is important is what I feel. "I started the series thinking that I'll play for another year – at least in T20 cricket. But when I woke up on the 25th I felt that it was time to go. "To be honest I could easily play for another year or two. But we have to look to the future. If I play for another two years and leave, there's only 18 months before the next World Cup and that's unfair to the team. "A young player could be blooded in that time. Since I started opening six years ago, we haven't found a permanent partner for me. "I've opened with about 10 people – so that's a problematic area for us. If I keep playing we won't be able to get two batsmen settled in that place. I'll be able to get some rest." (Omnisport)

Patel bowls Bears into one-day final SPINNER Jeetan Patel took five wickets to help Warwickshire beat Somerset by eight runs at Edgbaston and set up a Royal London Cup One-Day Cup final against Surrey. Ian Bell struck an unbeaten 94 to boost hopes of an England return and help Warwickshire post 284-4. Somerset's reply was blighted by Patel (5-42), whose five lbws included the key wicket of Peter Trego (58). James Hildreth (44) and Ryan Davies (46) rallied but the Bears held firm to book their place at Lord's. Warwickshire will now

Jeetan Patel claims a five-wicket haul - all lbw - as Warwickshire beat Somerset in the Royal London semi-final.

face the Brown Caps, who beat Yorkshire in Sunday's semi-final, on Saturday, September 17. The Bears' victory over Somerset was built on the foundations set by openers Jonathan Trott and Sam Hain, who shared 90 before the former was caught and bowled by Roelof van der Merwe for 44. Hain (86) then put on a further 88 with Bell, whose flurry of late attacking strokes, including two straight sixes off van der Merwe, took the hosts to a competitive total. Somerset lost regular wickets throughout their

chase, with eight batsmen reaching double figures but just one - Trego - going on to make a half-century. Only the heroics of number 10 batsman Tim Groenewald prevented the home side's victory from being more emphatic, clubbing an unbeaten 30 off 20 deliveries to take the match to the final over. But a series of well-directed yorkers from Oliver Hannon-Dalby (2-41) ensured Warwickshire would reach the final of the competition they last won in 2010, leaving Somerset on 276-9. (BBC Sport)

Franchise League tournament

THE management of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC) and the Albion Cricket Club (ACC) have expressed disappointment in the manner in which the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Jaguars Franchise League three-day tournament has been organised. According to a joint release, “The clubs which have produced the most cricketers for Berbice have been kept in the dark about arrangements for the tournament and who is responsible for the selection of the Upper Corentyne and Lower Corentyne or New Amsterdam teams.” It further stated, “To make matters worse, the Berbice Cricket Board has not been consulted or informed of plans for the tournament. The two clubs, who together share a record nine Guyana Cricket Club of the Year Awards are very concerned about the current state of affairs. The RHTYSC and the ACC are committed towards uniting all the factions of Guyana’s Cricket but we would not be willing to do so in the future if greater effort is not made to ensure that our cricket is administered in a transparent manner. The two clubs seek urgent answers to the following questions. Who were the persons responsible for selecting the teams and what were the criteria used? Why was the BCB not

consulted despite the efforts to unite the two cricket boards? Does the sponsoring of teams give the sponsor, the sole right to select players for a team? Is it not a conflict of interest for a president of a cricket club to be a sponsor of a team, in which his club is involved? Why were the clubs and the BCB not consulted on the arrangements for the tournament. Our advice and suggestions would have assisted in better arrangements. Who selected the officials for the tournament and what were the criteria used? Is it a deliberate policy to side-line the top two cricket clubs in Berbice and the BCB when we were open to healing the wounds in Guyana’s Cricket?” “Why were a lot of promising young cricketers like Josiah Dhanai, Kevlon Anderson, Kevin Sinclair and Sylus Tyndall left out of the 18-man squad and the highly productive Collis Butts was not considered? Butts was the Man-of-the-Final in the last BCB first division tournament. The RHTYSC and ACC are major stakeholders in Berbice and Guyana’s cricket and together have ideas and suggestions that would assist in the development of the game. We are at a loss why we are being sidelined,” the release ended.

BVA competition volleyball tournament rescheduled THE Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA)-sponsored 3 Doors Strikers Volleyball Club’s one-day volleyball competition has been rescheduled for this Sunday

at the 3 Doors Strikers Volleyball Club court at D’Edward Village, West Bank, Berbice. The one-day event was originally set for last Sunday.

Over 20 teams are expected to take part in the competition which is expected to feature games among the male and female seniors and junior males.

Teams are expected from Orealla/Siparuta, up the Corentyne River. Rollers of New Amsterdam, No.52 Survivals, Jets of Corriverton, Tain Humanitarian, Port

Mourant Jaguars, PMTC, GTCPM, hosts 3 Doors Strikers, Black Bush and Berbice High School are the teams expected to participate among others.

Incentives will be presented to the top teams in the various categories and the outstanding individual players. Action serves off at 09:00hrs.

Nadal, Kerber through US Open first round

… Britain’s Edmund upsets Gasquet

SPAIN'S Rafael Nadal and Germany's Angelique Kerber were among the leading names to make early progress on day one of the US Open in New York. Kerber, seeded second in the women's draw, led Polona Hercog 6-0, 1-0 when the Slovenian succumbed to leg cramps. Nadal, the men's fourth seed and a two-time former champion, swept past Uzbekistan's Denis Istomin 6-1, 6-4, 6-2. Nadal, who missed the French Open and Wimbledon with a wrist injury, said: "The most important thing is that I am here in New York. Injuries are part of the career. I had a hard time this year." There was an early shock in the men's draw as Britain's Kyle Edmund upset French 13th seed Richard Gasquet 6-2, 6-2, 6-3. John Isner, the 20th seed, almost followed Gasquet out of the tournament but the American came back from two sets down to beat 18-year-old compatriot Frances Tiafoe 3-6, 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-2, 7-6 (7-3).

Rafael Nadal

"It hurts, it hurts a lot," said Tiafoe, who served for the match in the fifth set. "Especially not getting over the line." Women's third seed Garbine Muguruza of Spain avoided an upset as she fought back to beat Belgian Elise Mertens 2-6, 6-0, 6-3. Australian Open champion Kerber made it through to round two without dropping

a game, as she looks to land a second major title and end Serena Williams' 185week run at the top of the rankings. Kerber, 28, came within one match win of toppling the American eight days ago in Cincinnati, and Muguruza and Agnieszka Radwanska also have a chance to do so in New York. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Hikers men, Pizza Hut ladies perch atop Lucozade hockey standings HIKERS men and the Pizza Hut GCC ladies lead their respective classes of the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB)-sanctioned LUCOZADE indoor league following the latest rounds last Saturday. Hikers, Old Fort Stallions, Bounty GCC and Vintage will move onto the knockout phase of the tournament while on the distaff end, Pizza Hut ladies, Hikers, Spartans and Old Fort Shooting Stars are through. In the league format, Aroydy Branford of Hikers scored 40 goals and is currently the league leader while Gabriella Xavier of Pizza Hut GCC has scored 10 and is currently leading the females Meanwhile in Saturday’s games, Game number one saw the GCC Spartans go up against Old Fort. It was a low-scoring but exciting game, as there were valiant efforts from both sides with the Spartans ultimately winning 2-0 thanks to Dominique De Groot and Marzana Fiedtkou. Bounty GCC clashed with GCC Vintage in the second match of the evening in a nail-biter of a game. At halftime the score was 4-3 in favour of Bounty as both

squads displayed their skills at both offence and defence. One more goal was scored in the final minutes of play in the second half and that brought the final count to 4-4. Alan and Philip Fernandes, and Marcus Fiedtkou were the goalscorers for the Vintage, while Michael Craig, Kareem McKenzie and Peter De Groot were Bounty’s goalscorers. There were no tie-breaker options but both teams were awarded points. The third game brought the ladies together again when Pizza Hut’s GCC took on Hikers. GCC came out victorious with a full-time score of 4-2 after Kerensa Fernandes added two goals to the total which turned the tide of the game. The scores were one apiece in the first half but the Hikers took the lead early in the second. Fernandes of GCC retook the lead for her team with FGs one minute apart and that sealed the deal for the Pizza Hut-sponsored squad. The fourth match of the evening saw a record 26 goals scored the male Hikers team, versus the three goals scored by the Old Fort Knockers.

When the crowd saw that the half-time score was 12-2 in favour of the Hikers they knew that Old Fort would need two miracles and a hex to redeem themselves. They did not, not by a long shot. To call this a blowout would be the understatement of the tournament. Aroydy Branford of the Hikers scored a staggering fifteen. With little bench rest and no mercy Branford went on a rampage that even made the Knockers coach second-guess his strategies. His teammates gave stellar support and the goalkeeper was quick on his feet. The Hikers were at their optimal performance and nothing could stand in their way. The last game of the evening was a bout between GCC Pitbulls and Old Fort Stallions. After watching their Knockers being pummelled by the Hikers, the Knockers decided to save face and they made an example of GCC with a final score of 5-1. Jason De Santos led the charge for the Stallions with three goals to his name while Mark Sargeant was the Pitbulls’ only scorer.

Doctor puts Fraser-Pryce’s foot in protective boot, mulls surgery SHELLY Ann Fraser-Pryce is to see a doctor in Miami in about two weeks at which time a decision could be made as to whether or not she undergoes surgery on a troublesome big toe. The 2016 Olympic 100-metre bronze medallist had been bothered by the injured toe for almost a year. It hampered her preparation for the Olympic Games where she was attempting to become the first woman to win three consecutive Olympic 100-metre titles. She aggravated the injury while winning her 100m

2016 Olympic 100-metre bronze medallist Shelly Ann-Fraser Pryce

semi-final heat but was able to mine a bronze medal in the final won by her compatriot Elaine Thompson. According to the athlete’s publicist, Sherie Ranston, Fraser-Pryce visited her doctor in Miami on her way home from Brazil. He had her wear a protective boot which she will keep on for the next two weeks when he is to examine the toe again. The specific nature of the injury remains a mystery, SportsMax.tv understands. Initial reports said she was suffering from a fracture but later reports suggested it was not. Ranston said the athlete is reluctant to speak on the

nature of the injury until there is certainty as to what it actually is. In addition to her two Olympic 100-metre titles, Fraser-Pryce has

also won four individual World Championship gold medals including three 100-metre titles in 2009, 2013, and 2015. (Sportsmax.com)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER 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) 11 (9 catches/2 stumpings) (2) 7 (6 catches/1 stumping)

Today’s Quiz: (1) How many players made their Test debut in the series? (2) How many players were involved in only one Test apiece in the series? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 30, 2016

CMRC 2016 Round Three in Barbados

Vieira singles out Miller as main contender By Stephan Sookram WITH the third leg of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championships right around the corner, Stephen Vieira has singled out Barbadian Brook Miller as the ‘man to beat’ come race day. Speaking exclusively to Chronicle Sport, Vieira contended “I actually see him (Brook) as the number one competitor for Barbados and going to one of the best tracks in the Caribbean or possibly the best track in the Caribbean, I am going to try my best to push and do better.” Vieira picked up three second-place finishes at the second leg in Trinidad and currently leads the CMRC

Superstock bike class with 122 points while his cousin Matthew, who will also compete in Barbados, is in second. However, he explained that mechanical troubles from his Kawasaki ZX6-R had relegated him to only second-place finishes on race day. “It was actually very funny because I didn’t have the straight line power that I needed and everyone else had and I had to work much harder in the corners; but it was actually experience that gave me that balancing effect, the experience that I have over them, ” he said. He continued, “ Experience is a lot, if the game plan at any time has to change, experience is a major man to

Stephen Vieira and his Kawasaki ZX6-R. (Mikey Spice photo)

fall back on.” Moving into the third leg, he also confirmed that, “My mindset is actually very, very good because we had a little problem in Trinidad and we thought it was in the fuel system and its management but it was not that, it was the engine - one cylinder was dead. I just put in a new engine and my feeling and motivation now actually strong.” “The engine that I have in that bike is all the confidence that I need. We actually tested the engine and we (my team and I) know to ourselves that it is a good engine.” His bike is sponsored by Sunburst Orange Juice, Palm Court, Top End Fitness, Pure Racing and The Track.

Guyana thump Suriname in Cricket captains bat for Motosur battle of the Guianas more matches on U.S. soil GUYANA thumped Suriname on Sunday in the outlaw class of the Suriname Motor Racing Association’s (MOTOSUR) battle of the Guianas. Azrudeen Mohammed and his Nissan GTR ruled the drag strip, beating off that country’s main competitor, A Chevrolet Nova. The much-anticipated hype tied to the event had an anticlimactic end as the Surinamese car jumped the

line and was disqualified for a false start, leaving the Guyanese dragster an easy win. However, in a grudge match later that evening, the two re-ran the race to see the fastest car; the GTR putting down a time of 8.4 seconds as against the Nova’s 8.5. From the launch, the Nova had the lead up until halfway of the strip where the GTR subsequently caught it before registering a photo finish.

Meanwhile, Shawn Persaud (Toyota Caldina) won the 11-sec class while Sanjay Persaud (Mazda RX-7) and Peter Daby each got into the semi-final of their respective classes. Randell Daby (Toyota Supra) won the 10-sec class with split second finishes. The Guyanese were welcomed by the Surinamese with open arms which led to a hassle-free day which started promptly.

Enthusiastic Indian fans show their support in the India v West Indies T20I in Florida.

Guyana’s Nissan GTR (right) lines up against Suriname’s Chevrolet Nova at the Motosur Battle of the Guianas (Samantha Singh photo)

FORT LAUDERDALE, USA (AFP) — India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni wants more matches in the United States despite a chaotic Twenty20 clash against the West Indies yesterday ending in a rainhit no result. Heavy rain forced the game at the Central Broward Regional Park to be abandoned on Sunday, with India well-placed on 15-0 off two overs in pursuit of a modest 144-run target. The outcome completed a miserable day for the organisers who were forced to delay the start of the game by 40 minutes after technical problems caused a loss of television pictures.

West Indies, the world champions in the format, claimed the two-match series after winning the first game on Saturday by just one run. Dhoni, whose side conceded the third-highest total of all-time in the format of 245 in the opening clash, said he definitely sees a future for T20 cricket in America’s crowded sports market. “This is one place where we can come back and play cricket - a triangular or four-nation series,” Dhoni said at yesterday’s presentation in comments carried by the Cricinfo website. “A tournament like that can give us more time to spend in the U.S. Yes, it will

be a cramped schedule, but modern-day cricketers won’t mind it. “This is one place where spectators will come. The timing suits us. So it’s a win-win situation. It’s a good venue to continue cricket.” Carlos Brathwaite, leading the West Indies for the first time after the sacking of Darren Sammy, also looked forward to returning to Florida. “For me as a young leader to lead the players is an exciting experience. We want to remain champions and entertain the West Indies crowd. Most definitely we would love to come back here again,” he said.

CMRC 2016 Round Three in Barbados

Vieira singles out Miller as main contender 23

GBA’s Michael Parris U-16 championships

Wright named `Best Boxer’, FYF champion gym

Isiah Moore (left) son of former Guyana world-rater Leon `Hurry Up’ Moore absorbs an overhand right from Junior Hyman in their 105-109lb division contest. Moore went on to win by a TKO.

ESSEQUIBO Boxing Gym’s (EBG) Shanquincy Wright, for the second consecutive year, has been named the Michael Parris Under-16 `Best Boxer’ after two consecutive victories in the Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA) Demerara Distillers Limited one-day tournament which was staged on Sunday at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue. The tournament which was anticipated to attract over 40 boxers from across Guyana failed to live up to expectations with regard to the number of gyms and pugilists, as only the EBG and Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) gyms were represented by quite a few boxers. There was a lone pugilist from the Pocket Rocket Gym. At the end of the day’s proceedings, the

FYF gym was named the Best Gym, dethroning EBG who won the inaugural title in 2015. Wright, who won the `Best Boxer’ award last year with two convincing victories, returned this year a more polished boxer, compliments of his coach and former national intermediate champion Clifton Moore. In the opening fight of the day’s card, Wright made light work of his FYF opponent M. Moore, a debutant in the 70-74lb group, then came back later in the afternoon to beat his gym mate Deron Williams, thereby securing the `Best Boxer’ award. Wright showed great potential for a 14-year-old as he outclassed Williams in every department, out-boxing Williams who, when he tried to step up the pace of the

Shanquincy Wright (left) who was named `Best Boxer’ for the second consecutive year takes a lunging overhand right from Deron Williams during their 70-74lb fight at the National Gymnasium on Sunday. (Samuel Maughn photos)

fight, Wright was equal to the task and never backed away and deservedly won the `Best Boxer’ award. Another outstanding boxer on show on Sunday was Isiah Moore, son of former Guyanese world-rater, Leon `Hurry Up’ Moore who contested the 105-109lb category for the FYF gym and came out victorious over Junior Hyman (EBG) with a TKO victory. Young Moore, like his father, looked classy and vicious at the same time and seems to be one to watch in the future. In other results, FYF’s Travis Inverary secured a points win against his gym mate Q. Harris in a 75-79lb division bout. In the 120-125lb division, Delroy Elcock (EBG) beat his gym mate Shaquille Wright on points, while S. Graham (FYF) defeated his

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gym mate M. Beckles in a 65-69lb division co0ntest. In the In the 90-94lb division, it was a case of another contest between two gym mates and saw M. Sukhra (FYF) coming out on top of J. Thompson. The 105-109lb division saw J. Ross (EBG) secure a TKO against his gym mate S. Hutson, while Pocket Rocket Boxing Gym’s lone entrant Omar Pollard scored a points decision win against Delroy Elcock (EBG) in their 110-114lb match-up. In the 150-157lb division, S. Wither (FYF) defeated Brian Harris on points. Meanwhile, the GBA’s national intermediate championships will be held from September 9 to 11 at a venue to be announced. TUESDAY, AUGUST 30, 2016