Kaieteur News

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AIETEUR Local content NEWS

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Thursday Edition April 25, 2019 - Vol. 12 No. 17

policies have little to no teeth

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

Price $80

- NRGI says laws necessary

Online readership yesterday 142,143

CCJ sets new dates for hearing No-Confidence motion cases

- Datadin moves to block tomorrow's sitting of National Assembly

Police doing ballistics on gun removed from station

Ministry of Public Infrastructure reports vandalism on East Bank overpasses

US fugitive Troy Thomas extradited

The elevator door smash open by vandals

Solar lights were also stolen from the structures

Cops on the hunt for one-legged mastermind in Kuribrong murder

Patterson welcomes public probe of US150M CJIA renovation

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Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

Patterson welcomes public probe of US$150M CJIA renovation

M

inister of P u b l i c Infrastructure, David Patterson, is open to an investigation into the spending for the US$150M Timehri airport project.

The official in response to statements of former Public Works Minister, Robeson Benn, who urged Tuesday for a public probe into the circumstances which saw the project sub stantially modified, said that debate ongoing is healthy for

The building at the right with the sign on it is the new arrivals area that was built next to the old terminal.

Guyana.

“Finally, (Benn's) call for an investigation is most welcome. In fact, the reason we are having this open debate on this project, is based on my belief that public procurement is exactly that – public.

“Gone are the days when the cry for “an investigation” sends shivers down the backs of public officials – we are in a more enlightened and informed age. Better has come,” Patterson said yesterday in a statement on his Facebook page.

This is the second statement on the project issued by Patterson, within days, on his Facebook account. There has not been one officially distributed by the Government Information Agency as is the norm, and would have been in the case of a minister talking about a multi-million-dollar project of this magnitude that has been in the news, and not for good reasons- for a number of years.

The airport project was supposed to see a brand new terminal building and a longer runway to accommodate wide-body planes.

However, a smaller building to cater for the arriving passengers has been built. The old terminal has been gutted and renovated to house the departure area.

The US$150M tag price, however, has not changed.

Patterson this week, in response to Kaieteur News reporting on the project, was critical, questioning the agenda of the newspaper.

He said that in 2015, on entering office, the Coalition Government in an assessment found a number of shocking things.

For example, for 15 months, since the beginning of construction in 2013, there were no independent consultants.

In fact, since the original contract was signed, there is little evidence that a number of studies and reports were prepared and submitted.

In 2015, the Coalition said that China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) had claims for up to US$90M, more than half of the money although just seven percent of the work had been done.

The government was given three options- scrap the project; plug more monies, or make the remaining money work.

It chose the last option.

This decision saw a drastically modified project which included the designs changed significantly on the terminal building.

Instead of a glass roof, there are plain roofing sheets; a planned eight (continued on page 19)

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

CCJ sets new dates for hearing No-Confidence motion cases

E

mphasizing the importance of the three cases related to the No-Confidence Motion that were filed with the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), and the need to not stifle lawyers from fully developing points in oral submissions, President of the court, Justice Adrian Saunders, has announced that the matters will now be heard over a two-day period, May 9 and May 10.

But as the CCJ gears up to hear these matters, a court action which seeks to block tomorrow's sitting of the National Assembly is looming.

During a pretrial hearing yesterday, Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin who is representing expelled Alliance for Change (AFC) Parliamentarian Charrandass Persaud objected to the National Assembly meeting on the basis that the CCJ, Guyana's highest court, is still to pronounce on these matters.

The lawyer made it clear that the sitting is a very important one since the Government is seeking to pass legislations in relation to companies in the oil and gas sector “and to do things related to finance.”

In this regard, the lawyer indicated that he will be filing an early application before the court to block the sitting.

Datadin tuned in via video conference. Justice Saunders, however, refused to comment on the issue, saying that there was no application of the sort before the CCJ. Initially, Saunders had announced that the matters would be heard in entirety on Friday, May 10, even if the court had to work up to late in the afternoon. This was following a Case Management Conference (CMC) held at the Trinidadbased court on March 29.

Ye s t e r d a y ' s p r e t r i a l hearing was intended to resolve legal issues ahead of the trial and to streamline timelines for lawyers to present their submission.

At the hearing, Trinidad and Tobago -based Senior Counsel, Douglas Mendes, who is among the lawyers representing Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo; and Belize-based Counsel Eamon Courtney, who is among the lawyers representing the State, requested that more time be allotted to hear the matters.

Responding to the

- Datadin moves to block tomorrow's sitting of National Assembly request, Justice Saunders said, “This is an important case, it raises some very interesting constitutional issues. And, while we don't want counsel to prolong the oral arguments, nevertheless it is in our own interest that we should not stifle you, from fully developing points, which you have made in writing.”

Mendes expressed that he believes the one hour given to him to present submissions is too short.

He said, “I am cautioning that the time you allotted me will be too short. There are a number of issues that have to be traversed, very important ones about the constitution of Guyana. The one hour you have allotted to me I fear will be eaten up very quickly.”

“We all have your written submissions. So there is no point in you just really orally going over what is already there. It's just a question of highlighting certain features… your best features in your 30 or 40 pages submissions on a particular point,” said Justice David Hayton who also sits on the panel of judges.

On the other hand, Courtney told the court that he wished to adapt the points made by the Senior Counsel.

Nevertheless, Justice Saunders outlined the schedule for the hearing of the matters over the two-day period which commences on Thursday, May 09, at 10:00hrs.

All the parties in the matters will be taking part in oral submission except for the Speaker of the National Assembly, Barton Scotland, and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

Senior Counsel Rafiq Khan and Excellence Dazzell, who are representing them

respectively, said that the parties will abide by the ruling of the court.

The battery of lawyers includes Attorney General Basil Williams and Solicitor General Nigel Hawke; Attorneys-at-Law Kamal Ramkarran and Anil Nandlall who are representing Christopher Ram and Jagdeo; Attorneyat-Law Roysdale Forde is appearing for Joseph Harmon, in his capacity as a representative of A Partnership for National Unity.

Senior Counsel Neil Boston appears for private citizen Compton Reid.

Jagdeo is asking the court to quash the Court of Appeal's ruling which invalidated the passage of the NoConfidence motion on the night of December 21, last, in the National Assembly.

In a split decision, Chancellor of the Judiciary Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Justice of Appeal Dawn Gregory held that 34 votes, which constitute an “absolute majority” of all members of the National Assembly, were needed for motion to be successfully passed.

The Appellate Judges held that in calculating the “absolute majority”, the 65 members of the National Assembly had to be divided by two, which would result in 32.5, but since the .5 represents half and there is no half-member, that number needs to be rounded off to 33, and add one more, making the majority 34—an absolute majority—which is needed to topple a government.

On the night of December 21, last, 33 of the 65 members of the National Assembly voted in favour of (continued on page 9)

PAGE 03

US fugitive, Troy Thomas, extradited

U

S fugitive, Troy Thomas, was extradited to the United States, yesterday, to face charges for the murder of a 20-year-old Guyanese man eight years ago.

A US Embassy release stated that Thomas was en route to the United States to face justice “for criminal acts he allegedly committed in New York in 2011.”

It added that he is in the custody of the New York Police Department and will appear in court today before an American judge.

The Embassy stated that Thomas's extradition reflects over one year of close coordination between the Government of Guyana and the U.S. Embassy.

It said he exhausted any further right to appeal under the Guyanese constitution at midnight yesterday.

Thomas, also known as Marvin Williams, was implicated in the December 11, 2011 murder of 20-yearold Keith Frank, a Guyanese, who was shot and killed outside a party in Richmond Hill, New York.

He allegedly fled to Canada. He was apprehended last year in Guyana.

He was first ordered extradited on November 30, 2018 by Principal Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs.

But he filed an application at the High Court, challenging the Magistrate's authority to conduct the committal proceedings.

The US murder suspect maintained that he is Marvin Williams and argued that Justice Barlow also erroneously made the ruling

Troy Thomas

that he was Troy Thomas.

That appeal was dismissed.

In its statement, the US Embassy thanked the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Prison Service, the Minister of Public Security, and the staff at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, “for their close cooperation and commitment to justice.”

“Corruption and criminal activity rob the Government and citizens of Guyana of money that could have been spent on education, health care, and important infrastructure work. “Extraditions are an important law enforcement tool in fighting transnational criminal organizations.

Today, a fugitive from justice is being extradited to the United States to stand trial, creating a new precedent.”

“The American Embassy

notes this positive step forward and commends the Government of Guyana.

Ambassador Lynch said, “The Government of Guyana's actions over the past year clearly indicate its dedication to law and order and established norms of international criminal justice – Guyana is moving in the right direction.

“Establishing a roadmap for future extraditions, bringing a fugitive to justice, making Guyana a safer place for Guyanese citizens – this is the best example of rule of law existing in Guyana.”

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Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

The insidious nature of corruption

W

itness tampering. Evidence tainting and diluting. And at the end, obstruction of justice. Justice thwarted and denied, in an unending series of frauds and injustices that plague this tortured Guyana from coast to coast and at every rung in the ladder of this society.

It is only part of the kitchen sink.

The matter still unfolding relative to alleged acts of misconduct at the National Procurement and Tender Board (NPATB) possesses all the elements of what is succinctly outlined above.

It indicates a still-growing investigation into alleged breaches at NPATB as but the tip of the longstanding iceberg firmly rooted here that goes under the name corruption.

Perhaps, a more appropriate label might be high treason. For these onslaughts against people and state menace the character and existence of both.

Even passing interest succeeds in deciphering what is now the fixed modus operandi of the convicts-inwaiting across the length of this land, and what has transformed into a settled and accepted way of life. The sheer magnitude of the numbers, the layers, the cabals, the relationships, the concentric circles, and the wideranging supporting cast of assorted powers and pilots, middlemen, and bit players brings reeling, staggering and cringing as to what fate holds in store for this country.

On the rare occasions that crooked bureaucrats are caught in the act (they have to be, since there are no whistleblowers of standing or substance), a number of motions are released with almost military precision. They provide the first insights into a sophisticated mechanism aimed at protecting at all costs, and with all stops pulled, every favour called in, and every ally—whether existing or potential—recruited to run to the rescuing.

A senior official is snared. It appears to be almost by accident. Having been caught in flagrante delicto, through an irrefutable electronic evidence trail, there is still no readiness to bite the bullet and to dilute the matter that has dead to rights, as to either error or misinterpretation or entrapment (or any of the other usually spurious defenses tendered).

There first follows the now automatic immediacy of lawyering up, and with which comes the caution of: say absolutely nothing. In the ensuing silence and investigatory fact-finding buildup, there is casting about for: 1) identifying the best strategy; 2) disclosing known vulnerabilities; 3) reaching out to possible helpers on the inside; and 4) making overtures to the waiting sharks on the outside.

Some local legal professionals have earned dubious distinctions as full-fledged and first-rate coordinators of services of a certain kind, and for marshalling the willing of a particular inclination.

In today’s Guyana, what may have started out as an open and shut case anywhere, turns out to be one without a door or a jamb against which to brace. Thus, voice tapes and videotapes lose some of their traction and sting. For the next step in an arc of deception and criminality is to meet secretly with people, or get messages to them to remove the bodies and bloodstains.

If the corroborating paper and other trails are made to disappear, then genuinely committed state prosecutors are already looking at a losing predicament. They are going to war with the legal equivalent of matchsticks.

Further, people on the inside are made to either forget or dissemble or outright falsify what took place or what are the accepted best practices. They do the latter at great personal peril, but if the price is right, then the enticements might be too good to say no to. They normally are.

Is it any wonder that most matters illicit go nowhere in this society?

I challenge Freddie Kissoon to publish the writ that I allegedly filed against him DEAR EDITOR, I proudly hold aloft the banner of intolerance toward Freddie Kissoon (“I regard Ralph Ramkarran as the third most intolerant leader the PPP has birthed”- KN 23/4/19).

The simple reason is that Kissoon, of all columnists in Guyana, is the most notoriously uncomfortable with the truth, aided and abetted by Glenn Lall, publisher, and Adam Harris, editor.

Kissoon has attacked me repeatedly over the past twenty-five years, ad nauseam, with this fictitious story, among many, many others. I have already denied this story in the Kaieteur News. Yet Glenn Lall and Adam Harris allow it to be republished again and again as soon as Kissoon believes that the public has forgotten my denial. Kissoon is like a leach.

He sticks to you. Imagine re-

working a story repeatedly for twenty-five years, vindictively milking it for traction over and over again.

The truth is that I wrote a letter of demand decades ago to Kaieteur News in connection with an article Kissoon had written about me and sent a draft apology, a normal response to a libel. The Kaieteur News published the apology. That was the end of the matter. But Kissoon’s monstrous ego cannot let it go.

I never sued Kissoon and have said so publicly in the Kaieteur News. Yet Glenn Lall and Adam Harris have allowed Kissoon to repeatedly publish the lie that I sued him.

I understand that columnists are given free rein to publish their views. I also understand that their publishers and editors do not, or ought not, to tolerate lies. But Kaieteur

News obviously traffics in Kissoon’s lies to advance its sales.

Since Kissoon would have been served with this alleged writ that I allegedly filed against him, I challenge him to publish it. In case he was not served with it, he would know the approximate date it was filed. My knowledge of the workings of the Supreme Court Registry tells me that it would take less than an hour to obtain a copy. I challenge him to seek out a copy and publish it. He boasts the friendship of prominent lawyers who could assist him.

I bet that Kissoon would cowardly decline to take up this challenge. Also, I doubt that Glenn Lall and Adam Harris would act professionally for a change and require Kissoon to apologise for his repeated lies about me in this

reiterate that our leaders are elected by our members and no one else. Furthermore, our leaders, as citizens of Guyana, have a right to associate with organisations of their choice.

We are supportive of our leadership and general membership’s right of choice.

Indeed, we uphold this right for all Guyanese.

The author also asserts that the Skeldon factory is responsible for the state of affairs of the sugar industry.

Again we hasten to wonder whether Mr. Joseph is aware that several parties, some known to a relative of a senior Government functionary, have expressed interest in the very Skeldon factory.

Certainly, the letter writer, who prides himself as an observer, may know that the electricity plant of the factory is raking in billions of dollars per annum from the sale of power to the GPL. While we accept that the factory has some difficulties, we, at the same time, contend that they are not insurmountable and their remedy will only further demonstrate the factory’s worth.

Contrary to the author’s opinion, the GAWU has, on several occasions, over the years, offered critical views regarding the sugar industry.

In fact, our Union was among the first in calling for a fair and full-fledged inquiry into the sugar industry.

Our call was published as far back as our November/December 2014 e d i t i o n o f o u r u n i o n ’s

n e w s p a p e r, a n d w h i c h formed the basis of an article published in the January 15, 2015 edition of the Stabroek News.

Contrary to M r.

J oseph’s belief, we have never been shy about expressing our views on sugar or on any other matter.

Our fair views have, at times, attracted the ire of GuySuCo and the political hierarchy; however, such sentiments will not diminish us from making our points-of-view known without fear or favour.

Mr. Joseph laments the support given by the State to the state-owned sugar industry.

But in his lamentations, the letter writer ignores the present and past contributions of the industry in terms of drainage and irrigation, the training of artisans, community services, and so many other features.

M o r e o v e r, the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, through the sugar levy for instance, benefitted from tens of billions of dollars, monies which could have been reinvested in improving production and productivity.

We recall that the levy represented as much as 18 per cent of Government revenues in 1992.

It speaks to the substantial contributions the industry made to the country and moreso its people.

Those contributions – past and present – are made possible through the efforts and sweat of the industry’s

matter, in which their own paper was involved.

Ralph Ramkarran EDITOR’S NOTE It is unfortunate that Mr. Ramkarran has concluded that the publisher, Glenn Lall, and editor, Adam Harris, have encouraged Mr. Kissoon to repeatedly attack and peddle untruths about him. Never has this occurred and never will it.

The assertion that Kaieteur News “obviously traffics in Kissoon’s lies to advance its sales” is far from the truth. It is true that columnists are not dictated to, and while we must accept responsibility for what is published, the newspaper routinely insists that the columnist be factual. Everyone associated with this publication in that capacity has been so advised.

GAWU WILL REMAIN COMMITTED TO EXPRESSING ITS VIEWS ON MATTERS

DEAR EDITOR, The GAWU has taken note of Mr. Peter Joseph’s letter appearing in the April 19 Kaieteur News. Mr. Joseph, whose previous letter appeared under the moniker “local observers”, dishearteningly continues to make charges against our Union which, in our view, do not correspond to reality.

Mr. Josep h c o n t e n d s that our Union is under the control of an external organization.

It is indeed saddening that the letter writer has chosen to repeat an innuendo that really belongs in a fictional world.

T h e GAW U , a s i t pointed out before, operates independently and its leadership is elected by its membership, which cuts across the political divide.

Certainly, GAWU, time and again, has demonstrated its independence. In most recent times, we have engaged the Government, including President David Granger, with our views and suggestions on its policies towards the sugar industry.

Our Union even went as far as inviting Minister Joseph Harmon to speak at t h e G AW U - s p o n s o r e d conference on sugar last September.

Those facts undermine, glaringly, the author’s postulations.

The letter writer goes on to slantingly contend that our leaders come from a certain direction.

Again, we need to

workers who are Guyanese citizens.

Certainly, bearing in mind what the industry has provided to us all as Guyanese, State support, as has been provided to other industries and communities as well, is more than incumbent. At the same time too, we cannot ignore that the assistance from the Treasury to the sugar industry amounted to about 3 per cent of the 1.2 trillion dollars the Administration has earmarked to spend through its budgets.

We need to bear in mind that the sums approved by the Coalition went to support as much as 10 per cent of the population, a worthwhile investment in our view.

Moreover, the Government would have managed to recoup some of its assistance through taxes, whether directly or indirectly.

The GAWU reiterates its commitment to continue to express its views on matters of concern to its members and Guyanese generally. Our Union shall not be daunted by contrived points-of-view.

Our expressions will continue to share our pointed views on matters as we seek to defend and advance the interests of our members and the working-people of Guyana.

That is a long-held principle of our Union, and one which has served us well in the past, in the present and, undoubtedly, will in the future as well.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

Thursday April 25, 2019

Conflicts of interest – whether real, potential or perceived - must be urgently addressed DEAR EDITOR, As the dust from the conflict of interest contracts continues to swirl over and around us, there have been a number of suggestions on the way forward.

A careful analysis of the ongoing media coverage would reveal both converging and diverging views/ themes, as well as, what appears to be defensive positions from writers/speakers across the political spectrum.

There are, generally, three categories of conflict situations: real conflicts of interest, potential conflicts of interest, and perceived conflicts of interest, and each type of conflict presents its own problems, and requires careful review, appropriate management or strategies for elimination.

These conflict situations all have a common theme – discriminatory sweetheart deals - which must be adequately addressed to allay public distrust in the institutions and processes and level the ‘bidding’ playing field.

The litmus test for conflicts of interest was established in the 1998 ‘Pinochet’ case. Pinochet’s legal team had learned that one of the judges was linked to a charity which had raised funds for

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Kaieteur News

Amnesty International, a party in the case against Pinochet, and that the said judge’s wife was an administrative staff with Amnesty International. Pinochet, therefore, appealed the decision of the House of Lords on the grounds that its decision was tainted with bias because of conflict of interest. His team argued that the relationship between the judge and Amnesty International “gave rise to a reasonable apprehension or suspicion of bias”. There was no allegation that Lord Hoffmann was biased, but the contention that there was a real danger or reasonable apprehension or suspicion that Lord Hoffmann might have been biased, that is to say, an alleged appearance of bias not actual bias.

The fundamental principle is that a man may not be a judge in his own cause. This principle has two implications: First, if a judge is in fact a party to the litigation or has a financial or proprietary interest in its outcome, then he is indeed sitting as a judge in his own cause, which is sufficient for his automatic disqualification.

The second application of the principle is where a judge’s conduct or behaviour may give rise to a suspicion

that he is not impartial, for example, because of his friendship with a party.

As I have mentioned in previous letters to this column, and as others have in different words alluded to, Guyana is a small nation where everyone knows everyone, and where some people at various rounds of the social strata, as well as employees, are likely to take partisan positions based on any number of perspectives/alliances/ relationships.

It is, therefore, necessary for us to urgently address this conflict of interest issue with the view of putting in place socio-legal and structural arrangements to reduce or eliminate the incidence of conflicts of interest and promote greater procedural transparency, and equity in awarding contracts.

In a nutshell, conflicts of interest, whether real, potential or perceived, require urgent national attention as part of the government’s transparency in granting contracts.

While public officials may deny actual knowledge or direct involvement in the process, the potential conflicts of interest and perceived conflicts of interest may be real.

Yours sincerely, Ronald Singh

A PERTINENT LESSON FROM THE ELECTIONS IN UKRAINE DEAR EDITOR, A comedian, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, with very little experience in politics, won the presidential elections by a landslide in the Ukraine. He won 73% of the votes.

It is not the victory itself that is of significance, but rather, the magnitude of the victory, which has proven to be politically devastating to the more established parties, in particular the governing party led by billionaire Petro Poroshenko.

From a l l i n d ications the elections were free and fair, and Poroshenko has conceded defeat, which augurs well for the Ukraine which currently is at the centre of a geo-political

and ideological tension between Russia and other western powers, including the USA. According to political analysts, the victory of Zelenskiy could see a softening of bilateral relations between Russia and the Ukraine, which was severely ruptured under the Poroshenko regime.

If there is one lesson from the Ukraine elections, it is that the electorate cannot be taken for granted, espe-

cially when it comes to the fundamental question of governance. The issue of corruption was a major platform for Zelenskiy, which resonated well with the electorate.

It remains to be seen how the new administration will address the issue of Crimea which is still a festering issue.

So far, there is no indication that the territory which broke away from the Ukraine with Russian support is ready to mend fences.

Hydar Ally

PAGE 6

Caribbean countries protest appointment of new Venezuelan rep. at OAS OAS permanent Council in session

WASHINGTON - CMC – Eight Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries have written to the Chair of the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS) protesting the decision of the Council to accept by simple majority, the appointment of Gustavo Tarre, as the new Permanent Representative of Venezuela to the hemispheric body.

In the April 22nd joint letter, a copy of which has been obtained by the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC), Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago, said they had also taken note that on April 10, the Secretary General, Luis Almagro accepted the credentials of Tarre as the “Permanent Representative” of the National Assembly of the Bolivarian Republic of

Venezuela.

The Caribbean countries said that they also “endorse” the position of Mexico on the situation.

Earlier this month Tarre presented his credentials to Almagro, who had promised to work with him “to deepen the path to democratization, peace and justice for Venezuela”. lmargo had also said that the “voices in favour of democracy in the hemisphere” voted for the resolution that accepted Tarre’s appointment.

CARICOM, with 14 votes in the OAS, were divided on the issue with St. Lucia, Jamaica, Haiti and the Bahamas voting in favour of accepting Tarre “as the National Assembly’s designated permanent representative, pending new elections and the appointment of a democratically elected government,” in the South American country.

But Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, joined Venezuela in voting against the measure, while Barbados, Guyana, St. Kitts- Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago abstained. Belize was the only CARICOM country absent when the vote was taken.

The OAS Permanent Council is chaired by the United States, which is at the forefront of efforts to remove President Nicolas Maduro, who was sworn into office for a second consecutive term earlier this year, from power.

Washington wants him replaced by Juan Guaido, the Opposition Leader, who has already declared himself as interim president.

CARICOM has adopted a united position on the Venezuelan matter and in February, the regional leaders at their (Continued on page7 )

WHO urges more physical activities for children to deal with obesity WASHINGTON (CMC) – The World Health Organization (WHO) yesterday urged Caribbean parents not to allow their toddlers to spend no more than 60 minutes passively watching a screen every day, while babies under 12 months should have none.

It said this is to ensure that they grow up fit and well, as the international organisation launched its campaign to tackle the global obesity crisis.

The UN health agency which has made recommendations specifically aimed at children under five-years of age for the first time, said that an estimated 40 million children around the globe are over-

Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

weight.

The guidelines, which refer to passive activities such as watching cartoons, for example, as opposed to going online to talk to a grandparent, build on data gathered in countries in several countries which show that as many as 75 per cent of children do not have healthy lifestyles.

“That takes a moment to think about,” said Dr. Fiona Bull, a Programme Manager at WHO’s Department of Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases.

“Children under-five, who seem to be running around and busy all day and certainly tiring their parents, may not be as active as we think.”

In addition to screen time recommendations for very young children, the WHO says that they should be physically active several times a day and get lots of sleep.

“More is better,” the WHO report maintains, suggesting that carers should engage in interactive floor-based play and ensure that babies who are not yet walking spend at least 30 minutes on their stomach, rather than sitting in a

chair.

“The advice is where possible, to move from sedentary, passive screen time to more physical activity while at the same time protecting that very important quality sleep,” said Dr. Juana Willumsen, WHO focal point for childhood obesity and physical activity.

“And what’s particularly important is that quality interactive play with a caregiver that’s so important for early c h i l d h o o d development…that sedentary time should also be protected.”

The WHO said children aged one to four years old should be active for at least 180 minutes throughout the day and cites walking, crawling, running, jumping, balancing, climbing, dancing, riding wheeled toys, cycling and jumping rope as suitable pastimes.

It said for three to fouryear-olds, moreover, 60 minutes of this activity should be of “moderate-to-vigorous intensity”, noting that around the world, five million people die annually because they are not active enough.

Visions and Solutions for Guyana DEAR EDITOR, The Democratic National Congress was happy to be invited to discussions on the topic ‘Poverty and Its Alleviation’ on the April 10th edition of Plain Talk, now available on YouTube. Here, the subject was explored in relation to Guyana, and the DNC took the opportunity to share some of our ideas on the causes and solutions for addressing poverty at home.

We also shared our perspective on an appropriate system for managing Guyana’s economy.

For all of its complexities, the subject of economics has four primary goals: 1) Economic Growth, 2) Full employment of labour and other resources, 3) Low, stable inflation and 4) Favourable balance of payments position.

These translate into a society where the economy is operating at or close to full capacity, every employable person has a job which provides an income to adequately support his family, everyone has access to proper educational and health services, government operates on sound governance principles which eliminates corruption and the ills of mismanagement, and the economy enjoys buoyant economic growth in an environment of low inflation, accompanied by growing international reserves and a stable currency.

As Guyana continues to agonize over solutions to our political and economic problems, we offer our ideas for delivering on the above objectives, with particular emphasis on increasing incomes, promoting job creation and creating a viable economy.

It should be noted that our proposals also address our pressing social problems of crime and domestic abuse, which occasionally arises from financial stress in homes.

Additionally, it is our opinion that the present structure of our constitution is contributing to much of our economic problems (discussed in more detail in our brochure available on our Facebook page), and thus shares priority with the objectives of our proposed economic program.

The following summarizes our philosophy on our people, the private sector and taxation: Our People - Our citizens are our nation’s single most important transformative asset. With this in mind, one of the primary objectives of the policy framework of the DNC is the nurturing our nation’s talent, investing in our people so that they can

achieve their maximum potential in their endeavours. We have shaped our policies on incomes, taxation, education and health to deliver on this philosophy.

The Private Sector - As the engine of growth, the private sector will be consulted on matters which affect them with respect to investment, jobs creation and increasing their competitiveness globally.

Taxation – Prudent fiscal policy will be central to maintaining economic stability.

Our policy on taxation will be guided by our desire to minimize the incidence of tax on our citizens.

The vision of the Democratic National Congress for Guyana is captured in our theme, Bringing Guyana Into The 21st Century. We are committed, and will work towards developing Guyana so that Guyanese can enjoy the level of welfare and standard of living achieved in developed economies. This will be realized by marshalling our resources and investing in our human and productive capital to generate national and personal incomes which will fund transformations in our physical infrastructure and allow Guyanese to live comfortable lives where they can afford not only basic necessities, but also enjoy the welfare that derives from acquiring the things that appeal to them.

Investment will be targeted in four broad areas: our citizens, government services, our communities and the productive sectors.

Investment in Our Citizens – We consider our people our most important and transformative asset.

To this extent, raising the incomes of our workers is an investment in our citizens within the context of our current economic climate.

In this regard, we are committed to releasing the potential of our citizens by investing directly in their capacities. Incomes and unemployment issues have been placed at the centre of our economic policy framework.

Workers have over the decades struggled under the burden of depressed incomes, which has severely restricted their ability to enjoy basic welfare needs in many instances.

Government under the DNC will work closely with workers’ unions to develop a plan for addressing workers’ income issues by aligning these with what our negotiations can agree on as a ‘living wage’.

That is, the incomes of all public sector workers will be

adjusted by an amount which will raise the wages and salaries of the lowest paid public servants up to the level where we can agree they can live comfortably. We will also work closely with the private sector to address bottlenecks to investment and job creation as a means of addressing our pressing national unemployment situation.

Government Services – Much of the corruption in government services results from the depressed incomes of public servants. We intend to address this directly by paying increased wages and salaries to our public servants. Further, a national governance framework is integral to eliminating corruption, minimizing waste of taxpayers’ dollars and maximizing growth and welfare possibilities.

In this regard, more weight will be given to the independence of the Public Procurement Commission. All government ministries and agencies will be tasked with drafting governance guidelines for their respective organizations with external assistance where necessary.

These will be integrated into the operations of the respective organizations. All staff will be provided with training to ensure that regulations on governance are adhered to.

Our Communities - Realizing our vision of bringing Guyana into the 21st century necessarily involves investing in our communities. We will work with regional and municipal administrative bodies to ensure that they embrace the sound governance practices established for central government.

They will be consulted regarding their respective budgets and the responsiveness of these in delivering on environmental standards for cleanliness and other physical and social infrastructure necessary for increasing the standard of living in their communities.

Our Productive Sectors: Unleashing Guyana’s Potential - Investment in our productive sectors is crucial for realizing our vision for Guyana. In this respect, we encourage all Guyanese to examine their available productive assets and consider what resources they need to generate wealth. The DNC will hold consultations with all productive sectors, from agriculture to manufacturing, mining and IT, to ensure that every sector has the necessary support to increase production and wherever possible, facilitate access to export markets.

Yours Faithfully, Craig Sylvester Democratic National Congress

Thursday April 25, 2019

513 complaints filed against police in 2018 - 98 pending, 5 referred for disciplinary actions Checks and balances are important to any democratic society; that is ensuring that no one is above the law.

This is especially important to members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) who are tasked with enforcing and ensuring citizens uphold the law.

The Police Complaints A u t h o r i t y ( PC A ) i s responsible for receiving complaints of specific cases of misconduct by members of the Police Force.

Its role also includes supervising the investigation of certain serious crimes alleged to have been committed by members of the Police Force.

The authority fosters greater public trust in the force by ensuring it is in conformity with human rights including the right to life and liberty.

In 2018 alone, the Police Complaints Authority received 513 complaints against members of the force.

This was disclosed by Justice William Ramlal, Chairman of the PCA, during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI).

Of the 513 complaints made, 159 were rejected, 276 are closed, 98 are pending investigation and five referred to the Police Service Commission or the Police Disciplinary Authority for advice. Justice Ramlal said that when someone makes a complaint, that person is interviewed almost immediately by one of t h e e i g h t i n v e s t i g a t ors of the authority. He said that a statement is taken and acted upon once there is merit to the complaint being made.

This is necessary since many times persons were found to have made false reports against officers. Justice Ramlal called on persons to desist from doing this.

Some of the areas a complaint can be lodged against an officer include neglect of duty, assault,

unlawful arrest, unlawful stop and search among others.

Once a matter is investigated and the officer is found guilty, penalties are suggested to be handed down by the a u t h o r i t y.

This prevents the officer from getting a slap on the wrist for their misconduct.

L a s t S e p t e m b e r, Justice Ramlal was sworn in by President David Granger as Chairman of the PCA. He has since been working to ensure that citizens have fair access to justice.

“The authority is a critical link between the police and the public. It provides a means through which the public can have its grievances and police m a l p r a c t i c e s addressed in an impartial manner by an independent person,” President David Granger noted during the swearing in ceremony.

Caribbean countries protest appointment of new Venezuelan rep. at OAS From page 6 inter-sessional summit in St. Kitts-Nevis reiterated their position of non-interference in the internal affairs of Venezuela and said they were prepared to mediate in the process to bring about a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

However, St. Lucia, the Bahamas, Haiti and Jamaica, have supported the so-called Lima Group that

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Kaieteur News

is seeking Maduro’s removal. This is the third occasion so far this year they have broken ranks within CARICOM on the Venezuelan issue. In their l e t t e r, the eight CARICOM countries note that the National Assembly of Venezuela “ i s n o t a g o v e r n m e n t” and quotes Article 80 of the OAS Charter, which states in part that “the Permanent

Council…is composed of one representative of each member state especially appointed by the respective government with the rank of ambassador”.

The Charter also notes that “each government may accredit an acting representative as well as such alternates and advisors as it considers necessary”.

Ministry of Public Infrastructure reports vandalism on East Bank overpasses

By Alex Wayne Yesterday the Ministry of Public Infrastructure reported thefts and vandalism at the Providence and Diamond overpasses, East Bank Demerara.

While this may come as a shocker to many who had applauded the efforts by this ministry when it embarked on such projects several months ago, one may not help but wonder about the irony in all this.

These projects were left to stand for months after their installation, without being put into operation.

The installation of works at Providence began on June 11, 2018 and was expected to be completed in about a week. The remaining installations were expected to be completed by August 2018. This may have been so and people seemed excited with the introduction of the overpasses and elevators.

This would have allowed for less congestion in traffic (with pedestrians attempting to cross roads in peak traffic hours), and would have helped greatly with the elderly in wheel chairs being spared the difficulties of having to cross the busy streets as well.

It is very sad that if indeed wheel chair occupants had welcomed the new initiative, their hopes had to be dashed.

Up to today the elevators have not been put into operation.

Surely they must have allowed them to catch the interest of vagrants who naturally seized the opportunity to vandalise and steal items for which millions of dollars were spent.

These items maybe by now would have made their way into the hands of black market buyers who must have paid next to nothing to obtain them.

The overhead walkways at Providence and Diamond were said to be built for $77M each.

According to ministry sources the Ministry of Public Infrastructure engineers

The elevator door smash open by vandals

observed and inspected activities of theft and vandalism at the Providence and Diamond overpasses on the East Bank of Demerara in the recent past weeks.

The engineers observed that the elevator glass door at Providence was smashed, and electrical and solar panel lights stolen.

The wires at Diamond overpass were disconnected from the camera systems; while both the no cycle and disable signs were stolen.

Corrugated electrical wire cover was removed, earthing connection vandalized and protective covers stolen.

Yesterday the

Infrastructure Ministry’s PRO, Krest Cummings, was contacted. She noted that the ministry has not been able to get the elevators up and running; they have not been able to train personnel in the use of the elevators.

She added that since the elevators are computerized it would take intense training and personnel of a high caliber to be educated on the operations. She added that the broken glass to the elevator door has been replaced along with the solar panels. Engineers will soon be creating fixtures to the cameras to ensure they (Continued on page 8)

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Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

Local content Policies have little to no teeth - NRGI says Laws necessary

By Kiana Wilburg Quite often, policies which are aimed at ensuring oil companies make maximum use of local goods and services, have limited impact. As such several countries have adopted complementary laws aimed at increasing the size of the local supply and workforce that is used in the oil sector.

Highlighting this was the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI), an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving countries’ governance over their natural resources.

According to NRGI, these complementary laws include provisions aimed at increasing local participation via specific requirements to transfer know-how and skills to local enterprises and workers, and the requirement to train the local labor force.

A related legal strategy it said is the requirement to form joint ventures with local public or private companies to ensure in a more direct way that foreign companies transfer knowledge and technology to local companies.

In countries where the State is an active economic player, such as

China and Brazil, NRGI said that this approach has been accompanied with an increasing share of public ownership of oil, gas and miningrelated industries.

These initiatives also can come from the companies themselves and nongovernmental organizations when they design and support p r o g r a m mes for private sector development.

(Examples of this include The Small Business Initiative, Anglo Zimele by Anglo American in South Africa, Chile and Brazil; and Newmont’s business link programmes with the International Finance Corp. in Peru and Ghana.)

NRGI said, “The impact on the local supply depends on the timely coordination of complementary industrial, e d u c a t i o n a l , technological and local content policies.

For instance, if there are no significant educational investments in relevant areas, it would be difficult to identify and train suitable local workers.

Furthermore, the local supply needs to be sustainable and ideally i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y competitive in terms of q u a l i t y, value and scalability. “ Further to this, the Institute said that even

after coordinated efforts have been made and significant revenue has been invested, the local i n dustry can remain uncompetitive.

At the sub-national level, NRGI explained that countries such as, India, Kazakhstan, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines and South Africa have mandated spending on enterprise and skills development as part of social funds that companies are required to set up.

In the Philippines, it outlined that the law requires companies to not only produce development plans for the host and neighbouring communities, but also to contribute to “self-sustaining income generating activities, such as but not l i m i t e d t o , reforestation and production of goods and services needed by the mine and the community.”

It said, “Companies also are expected to finance the training of Filipino workers should local skilled workers not be available. In addition, mining companies are required to implement a social development and management program that allocates one percent of the direct mining and milling costs for community development.”

Ministry of Public Infrastructure...

From page 7 cannot be vandalized. She added that the cameras at the elevators will now be hooked up to surveillance system at the Demerara Harbour Bridge, so as to ensure that security ranks there can have a twenty-hour computerized view of what transpires around the elevators.

She failed to comment on an operational start time for the elevators, alleging that the engineer who could furnish her with that information could not be reached at press time.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure is calling on vandalstorefrainfromsuchactivities since they are ultimately destroying muchneededinfrastructure.Citizens are asked to report such activities to the nearest police station or the Ministry’s Public Relations Department on 592-227-0799.

The contracts were awarded for works on the projects at Diamond and Providence, East Bank Demerara to S. Jagmohan Hardware Supplies and Constructing Services.

The general scope of work had involved a super structure of steel that was fully enclosed to prevent persons from falling or jumping from it. There are steps from both the western and eastern sides, and includes elevators for persons who are physically challenged.

The contracts for the other three walkways – at Houston, Eccles and Peter’s Hall were awarded to B and A Civil Works.

The first two elevators were installed at the Providence pedestrian overpass, East Bank Demerara for disabled people, senior citizens and pregnant women. Trinidad Company, RBP Lifts Limited, had installed the elevators with RM Engineering overseeing the process.

Acting Project Manager for Donor Programme at the

Solar lights were also stolen from the structures

Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Mark Green, had informed that the elevators have a one-year warranty and a quarterly maintenance system in place. The elevators also have a screw drive systemwhichisasimplifiedandmore robust system, so there is no cable asinthecaseofthenormalelevators.

They are also built for the outdoor environment; have a canopy to shade them, and are open with glazed glass and have LED lighting. A response system for emergencies during power outages is also in place.

The cost for supply and installation of each elevator is tabled at US$61,000. Each elevator has a maximum capacity of 400kg or can accommodate about five people. In May 2016, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson had announced plans to construct pedestrian overpasses, as well as a fly-over at Diamond in an effort to reduceroadfatalitiesandcongestion on the East Bank of Demerara.

These areas were selected based on the highest concentration of pedestrian movement on the East Bank.

Thursday April 25, 2019

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Kaieteur News

This is crazy!

Any person can leave Guyana with up to US$9,999 and not have to inform anyone that this sum is in their possession. Yet, if someone sends you a US$100 you now are required under some inexplicable regulation to show identification and give your address.

Now why would any country allow someone to leave the country with US$9,999 or less without having to show any identification or even to indicate that this sum is accompanying the

passenger, and yet insist that some poor person changing a mere US$100 at a cambio, bank or money transfer agency has to produce an identification and an address.

This is preposterous!

Surely, the government cannot be serious about this.

This will cause problems within our society and force many of the cambios out of business, because citizens will be now encouraged to change their foreign currency at money changers such as the guys on the streets, instead of using the

established cambios which pay fees and taxes each year.

One can understand the need for the government to monitor the flow of funds into the country. There are ways in which this can be done without having to ask persons to provide their identification or to give out their address. There are ways in which these types of flows can be monitored without placing undue hassles on citizens and on established cambios.

Dem boys seh

One - foot man keeping one step ahead of police People like to talk bout disabled people and how dem must get help. But right now de police would jail anybody who get ketch helping a disabled man. Dem blue vex because de man wid he one foot keeping one step ahead of dem.

This man shoot and kill a man because he see dem stripping a truck. That wasn’t all. De man kidnap; de odda man who been wid de one who get shoot. That is when de story start. De man who dem kidnap getaway.

Then de police ketch two of de killers.

Since then dem looking fuh this one foot man. De Human Rights people seh de police should lef de man. But de commissioner seh if dem

human rights people know wha good fuh demself dem better keep out of this one.

Not so long ago when people commit a crime in Guyana dem use to run to Venezuela to hide. Now when dem running to Venezuela dem seeing people running this side.

Dem had a man who kill he father in law and run to Venezuela. He hide right deh fuh years, more than twelve years. Hard card brace him in Venezuela.

He tell dem boys things was so rough that he rather come to Guyana and face de gallows than fuh stay over there. He still in de jail and he smiling because he getting three square meals every day.

But is this one-foot man

who got people betting pun him. De police did pick up de trail but de man smart dem. He tek off de cork foot and mek it look like if he walking in de odda direction.

Anodda time he cross into Kurupung then double back. He hoping to get to Brazil but dem people deh got a problem wid Guyanese. Dem seh Guyanese kill couple Brazilians and dem got to get revenge.

When last dem boys hear de man was walking back to Bartica but he and de police using different route.

Talk half and remember not all disabled people helpless

CCJ sets new dates for hearing...

From page 3 a No-Confidence motion brought against the coalition government by the Parliamentary Opposition, People's Progressive Party (PPP).

Speaker of the National Assembly Dr. Barton Scotland thereafter ruled that the motion provided for under Article 106 (6) of the Constitution of Guyana, was successfully passed. That Article reads, “The President including the cabinet shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence.” The successful passage of such a motion means that the President and Ministers of Government should resign and that elections be held within three months in accordance with Article 106 (7) of the Constitution of Guyana.

According to that Article, “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the Na-

tional Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than two-thirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly, and shall resign after the President takes the oath of office following the election.”

But Government has insisted that 34 votes were required for it to be defeated and that the vote of Alliance For Change (AFC) Member of Parliament, Charrandass Persaud, who voted in favour of the motion, was invalid, since he held dual citizenship which contravenes Article 155 (1) (a) of the Constitution of Guyana. That Article states, “No person shall be qualified for election as a member of the National Assembly who is, by virtue of his own act, under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state.” As such, the Government filed action in the High Court. In the end, Chief Justice Roxane George (ag) ruled that the No-Confidence Motion was successfully passed and that the vote of Persaud

was valid despite his dual citizenship. In essence, she held that 33 votes represented a majority of all the members of the National Assembly present and voting and that it was more than enough to unseat the government. The Chief Justice further ruled that although Persaud was disqualified from being elected as a member of the National Assembly due to him holding dual citizenship, his vote was preserved by the provisions set out in Article 165 (2) of the Constitution.

It states, “The Assembly may act notwithstanding any vacancy in its membership … (even) after any dissolution of Parliament and the presence or participation of any person not entitled to be present or to participate in the proceedings of the Assembly, shall not invalidate those proceedings.”

The Government later sought redress in the Court of Appeal.

Persons having money to change are going to be very reluctant to provide this information. And the data that the cambios are going to produce are going to be problematic, because for example, someone wishing to change a sum of US$200 is going to send someone else to change the money because the person to whom the money is going to be consigned is not going to want that information to be noted.

Those persons who benefit from remittances do not want their identities to be known. The criminal network in Guyana has its spies all around, and sometimes when you think that your transaction is confidential it is not.

How many persons in this country have not had the misfortune of being robbed while either going to or from the banks? There are many cases in which the victims have expressed surprise at being attacked because they presumed that their business was confidential.

So why would a small man

want to provide his ID plus his address to a cambio, bank or money transfer agency. So that information can be transmitted to some government office and somebody in that office is going to know when your family sends money for you and how much they send.

Is the private citizen going to launder money in small transactions such as a US$100 or US$200? Come on; let us be serious. Money laundering is done in huge transactions and it is not going to be done through cambios.

Suppose now a married man from overseas has a local sweetheart and has to send money every month for her.

Do you think that man wants there to be a record to show that he is sending money to his lover? Do you think his lover wants others to know that she is receiving money from abroad?

Nobody wants bandits running in their homes demanding, “Give me the money you change today.”

What is going to happen is that some person will be sent to change the money and for this that person will have to be paid a fee which will reduce the money that is being received by the person to whom the money actually belongs.

What will also happen is that the money changers on the road are going to make more money.

Citizens are going to be very reluctant to provide the information that the authorities want to change sums in excess of US$100, and now most of the transactions will now be done in bottom houses and at street corners, transactions which will not become part of the formal system but the informal economy. And all because of some crazy regulation, which is ill-considered and impractical.

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Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

I would vote any day for Jagdeo as president over Ramon Gaskin I have always spoken my mind and faced but never feared the consequences. I got several text messages, phone calls and emails expressing dismay and shock about what I revealed about Ralph Ramkarran in my Tuesday column. My immediate reaction was; were these people in a coma all these years?

I wrote several commentaries about the true colours of Ramkarran over a long period of time. One person in the diaspora that I am very fond of suggested to me that in the current vortex of politics where Jagdeo wants to stage a comeback if

I should not be more strategic in how I approach sensitive topics. He doesn’t think my column would help third parties in the upcoming elections.

I replied with an extensive journey into my experience in fighting authoritarian rule. I told him that when Burnham and the PNC were in power, I met persons in the PPP, WPA and civil society that were confronting Burnham and the PNC but many of them were more unfit to hold power than Burnham himself.

When Cheddi and Janet Jagan, Jagdeo and Ramotar were in power, I met personalities in the PNC,

AFC, WPA and civil society that were worst than many of the leaders in the PPP’s hierarchy and who would have been more obnoxious in office than these PPP personalities.

Remember the biblical saying that not all those who are chosen will enter the kingdom of God. Not all those around us that oppose dictatorship are saints and angels. They are dictators themselves. I cite the name Ramon (Raymond) Gaskin to my friend. I have known Gaskin since I was 18 years old.

I know how terrible the rule of Jagdeo was but Gaskin who opposed Jagdeo and now opposes the incompetence of the APNU+AFC regime is not someone I would not even for a fleeting moment elevate above Jagdeo and all the key players in the APNU+AFC. Gaskin is naturally and instinctively a more deepseated authoritarian personality than Jagdeo. My opinion is that he would be far more undemocratic than

Jagdeo.

When he announced in November 2017 that he was forming a political party, my column for Monday, November 13, 2017 was “Gaskin may get three votes.”

Let me repeat emphasis; I would choose to vote for Bharrat Jagdeo, Donald Ramotar and all the current leaders in the PNC and AFC on any given day to be president of my country than Ramon Gaskin.

Interestingly, when at the forum of the National Library, Gaskin announced the formation of his political party, at the head table was my brother, Lincoln Lewis, who spoke at the event.

Gaskin on waxing lyrical about his new party, used the word, “we.”

So I suppose Lincoln will be part of the new outfit.

Lincoln is my friend but I put country above family, friends and party so I am telling him upfront, he cannot get my vote. Honestly, do the Guyanese people deserve Gaskin, Ramkarran and Henry Jeffrey? A piece is

forthcoming on Henry Jeffrey.

If you are very young, you need to know more about Jeffrey’s political history before you make the fatal mistake and vote for him in the forthcoming election when his party ANUG is expected to field candidates.

Guyanese need to tell Henry that there is a hole in the bucket. If you are too young to understand that bucket reference, then, you are too young to know who Harry Belafonte is. He has a song recorded about fifty years ago about a man named Henry and the hole in his bucket. For more on Gaskin see my column of Tuesday, September 6, 2016, “Ramon/ Raymond Gaskin and the hypocrisy of Guyana.”

I guess with our young population, many will not know the history of people like Gaskin (when I was a Stabroek News columnist I did a commentary on Gaskin – that was way back in 1989), Henry Jeffrey, Ralph Ramkarran etc. For example, half the population was not born in 1992 so they would

Frederick Kissoon not know the government had its own airline, Guyana Airways and in 1992, Ramkarran became the chairman of the board.

Our young people would not know that GAC ran into financial troubles and was disbanded by the Janet Jagan presidency. That remains one of the saddest and one of the most unwise decisions since, our government made since Independence.

When the election campaign begins, and Ramkarran and Jeffrey hold their town hall meetings, I plan to ask some questions of both men. I am not a religious person but I will be praying to God that they don’t sue me for libel after the meetings.

Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

High Park residents lament MMA/ADA failure to fix Access Bridge -says structure is an accident waiting to happen Residents of High Park, Mahaicony Creek, are alleging that the Mahaica/ Mahaicony/Abary Agriculture Development Authority (MMA/ADA) has failed to effect much needed repairs to a main access bridge used for transport to the location, and to transport paddy of the rice farmers to outside milling complexes.

Rice farmers yesterday said that the badly deteriorating bridge is ‘an accident waiting to happen’. Land erosion and the traversing of heavy duty trucks have created so much damage that the structure may soon plunge into the irrigation canal that separates the settlement from the outside world.

With rice harvesting in season farmers are very angry about the prolonged delay in fixing the bridge, since they want to get their produce to get to the mills to secure their only source of income.

Farmers, yesterday, said that when the bridge was installed over a year ago, they were promised a secure concrete structure by the MMA/ADA. They said that they were shocked when a bridge made of logs and planks was erected.

The fact that trucks weighing many tonnes, excavators and other heavy duty vehicles traverse the area, the planks in many areas on the bridge have become dislodged, and there are gaping holes in the bridge that allows full view of the waters below.

Rice farmers y e s t e r d a y w e re furious; some were very emotional as they lamented how they were stalled. Some farmers noted that they were ‘a forgotten people in a forgotten land’ as they have been pleading with the MMA/ADA for ages

about having the bridge fixed.

Examining the structure yesterday it was noted that the bridge was just a combination of heavy plants bolted unto very large logs. There were no proper upholding beams for the bridge, and the logs were resting on the earth that made the dam.

The elements of weather and water have eroded the earth of the dam, and any vehicle attempting to cross the bridge can see the structure plunging several feet into the water below according to farmers.

Vehicles presently cannot pass over the structure almost putting a halt to operations of the villagers and the rice farmers.

Villagers said despite their pleas for months to the MMA/ADA, only once some months ago they said a very young male representative who just examined the bridge, promised to return, and never showed up.

They said on many occasions, they were told that a document has been signed to purchase materials to repair the bridge, but neither materials nor builders had ever arrived. Yesterday residents informed that any attempts to use an alternate route to access the village would be to travel long miles behind the Burma location, and that area too was in a terrible c o n d i t i o n . Ye s t e r d a y, M M A / A D A’ S G e n e r a l Manager, Aubrey Charles, said that he had just signed a requisition to purchase material to repair the bridge. Attempts to enquire of whether the building works were tendered, and the amounts, caused Mr Charles to report that he had a court appointment and had to rush off.

The badly deteriorating High Park Mahaicony Access Bridge

This car used by our reporter yesterday, could not make it across the Bridge

PUC observes Duo arraigned on robbery charges remanded International Girls ICT Day Thirty-three-year-old, Kes Brown, of Lot 12 Water Street, Georgetown was yesterday remanded to prison after he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty on a charge of robbery with violence. According to the charge, Brown on April 19, last, robbed Subrena Doodnauth of her purse and $8000 at which time he used personal violence on her.

The facts of the case

read by Police Prosecutor Annalisa Brummell r elated that immediately a f t e r t h e r o b b e r y, t h e complainant raised an alarm and the suspect was caught by public spirited persons.

At his appearance before the Court, Brown pleaded not guilty to the charge.

He was nonetheless remanded to prisons until May 15, 2019.

Michael White, 45, of Lot 77 Triumph, East Coast Demerara was yesterday

refused bail after he appeared before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty on charge of robbery under arms.

White pleaded not guilty to the charge that he committed robbery against Jairam Seetaram on April 22 last.

The defendant allegedly robbed the victim at knife point of a cell phone and $3000 cash.

The charge was read to the defendant by Prosecutor Seon Blackman.

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC), is celebrating International Girls in Information Communications and Technology (ICT) Day. This day is observed globally today.

International Girls in ICT Day aims to encourage and empower girls and young women around the world to consider studies and careers in the growing field of ICTs, enabling girls, young women, and companies to gain the benefits of greater female participation in the ICT sector.

The PUC as part of its

commitment to gender equality has in its employ ten women who continue to blaze the trail whilst executing our regulatory, investigatory, enforcement and advisory responsibilities. Some of these areas may have once been considered unconventional career paths for females however the women of PUC continue to forge new frontiers.

In 2019 the PUC is pleased to collaborate with CARICOM Secretariat and other regional partners for the yearlong programme to create

awareness and provide mentorship for young girls and women to explore careers in the regulatory arena and to understand the benefits to be derived from greater participation in the tech industries.

Some of the activities throughout the year include exhibitions, Mentorship programmes and Open Days aimed for students, parents, teachers and academia.

On this International Girls in ICT Day, we salute all current and future ICT girls.

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

PAGE 13

Local US embassy named in hacking incident

By Andrew Blake - The Washington Times US (Washington Times) Embassies in Europe have wound up on the receiving end of an ongoing hacking campaign with roots in Russia, a multinational cyber security firm warned Monday.

Researchers at Check Point reported becoming aware of a weaponized spreadsheet being emailed to targets described as “Government finance authorities and representatives in several embassies in Europe.”

Attached to emails bearing the subject “Military Financing Program,” the booby-trapped document bears the seal of the U.S. State Department and claims to contain top secret information that can only be accessed if the recipient follows instructions that actually executes malicious code on their computer, according to the report.

Individuals who opened the purported State Department spreadsheet and followed the included steps would have allowed attackers to gain “full control” of the infected computer, Check Point reported.

Among the intended

targets were official representative of Nepal, Guyana, Kenya, Italy, Liberia, Bermuda and Lebanon, the report found.

“It is hard to tell if there are geopolitical motives behind this campaign by looking solely at the list of countries it was targeting, since it was not after a specific region and the victims came from different places in the world,” Check Point reported.

“Nevertheless, the observed victims list reveals a particular interest of the attacker in the public financial sector, as they all appear to be handpicked Government officials from

several revenue authorities.”

Despite having some hallmarks of a well-thoughtout attack, Check Point reported that its researchers were able to trace the malicious code to a Russian speaker who has previously shared excerpts on internet hacking forums using the handle “EvaPiks.”

While far from definitive attribution, Check Point is hardly the only cyber security firm to spot Russian hackers using the State Department to stage attacks.

F i r e E y e a n d CrowdStrike both reported late last year that “Cozy Bear,” the name given by

UG's Vice Chancellor and Principal refutes claims of overspending

P

rofessor Ivelaw Griffith, the University of Guyana's Vice Chancellor and Principal, has responded to news that his administration has been spending excessively for some time now.

UG's two unions, the Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) and the Workers' U nion (U G WU ), have requested an audit into UG's spending. Those unions have jointly published advertisements detailing why they think an audit is needed.

It was reported that the unions as well as students, have complained that faculty washrooms go without toilet paper and soap. Former Vice President of the UGSSA, Dr. Mellissa Ifill, had said that the administration spent upward of $400,000 to cater a dinner for eight at Renaissance House.

She balked at the fact that the administration would

University of Guyana Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith spend that much on dinner for eight, when toilet paper and soap is commonly unavailable in her faculty's washrooms.

To this, Griffith said “Not only is it patently inaccurate to assert that there is no toilet paper and soap at UG, but the claim that $400,000 was spent on a dinner for eight

individuals is patently false!”

Speaking to Kaieteur News, he said that, looking through records at hand, there is no note of a dinner for eight being held and paid for by the administration. He said that there was a dinner at his home, but that that dinner was catered for by his own h o u s e k e e p e r, f o r n i n e persons.

Kaieteur News reported on Sunday that data from the University of Guyana Audited and Unaudited Financial Statements and budget documents (20142019) suggests that money is disproportionately allocated to the Executive body.

Emolument costs illustrated by their release show that, in 2013, the combined compensatory packages for the executive body amounted to less than $60M. In 2018 that figure stood well over $180M. Those figures stand (continued on page 20)

cyber security professionals to hackers associated with Russian intelligence, were suspected of impersonating State Department employees as part of a phishing scheme targeting potential victims across several critical sectors.

“We can confirm that no Department networks were compromised,” a State Department official told The Wa s h i n g t o n Ti m e s o n Wednesday.

Founded in 1993 in Tel Aviv, Israel, Check Point boasted deferred revenues of

$1.3 billion in its firstquarter report earlier this week, a 13 percent increase year over year.

Check Point was able to stop the hacking campaign using proprietary cyber security services, according to its report.

PAGE 14

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

Police hunt one-legged 'mastermind' Police conduct ballistic tests on in Kuribrong Trail murder gun illegally removed from outpost

A

one-legged man known as 'Pak', yesterday remained a step ahead of police ranks who say he is the mastermind behind last Sunday's murder of truck driver Peron Nicholas Bobb on the Kuribrong Trail.

While the ranks have already apprehended two other suspects, 'Pak', who reportedly has a prosthetic leg, continued to elude those who launched an intense manhunt for him.

Police believe that he may be armed with the gun with which he allegedly shot Bobb.

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Dead: Peron Nicholas Bobb

T h e d e t a i n e d accomplices have reportedly given police conflicting statements about the incident.

Police have also spoken to an alleged eyewitness, who had escaped after the killers had abducted him.

Reports indicate that Bobb, of Carabese Hill, Bartica, was shot in the stomach by a group of men whom he had seen stripping spares from one truck and placing the spares on another vehicle, which is said to be owned by 'Pak.' It is alleged that Bobb and a miner were shuttling dredging equipment in the Kuribrong Backdam when they saw a truck heading towards them. Bobb allegedly stopped to allow the other truck to pass when the men shot him.

The men then abducted the miner, but the man managed to escape.

oncerned that a revolver that was illegally taken from a station strongbox was rented out to bandits, police have conducted ballistic tests on the weapon to ascertain if it is linked to any recent crime.

So far, investigators have found no evidence that it was used after being taken out of a strongbox at the Ruimveldt Police Outpost.

A police corporal who is one of the individuals who allegedly has the keys to the strongbox has been detained.

A barrack labourer was also taken into custody.

There have been several reports over the years of rogue policemen renting out firearms to criminals.

The revolver is the property of the City Constabulary. It was linked to the shooting death of Marlon Fredericks, a mentally ill man.

Two Tuesdays ago, the corporal, who is under investigation, alerted ranks at the station that the revolver was missing.

Shortly after, ranks at the

Gregory Bascom

Marlon Fredericks

station received an anonymous call from an individual who said that he had found a firearm a short distance from the outpost.

The firearm turned out to be the missing revolver.

The firearm is linked to the January 2018 manslaughter case in which Gregory Bascom, a City Constabulary lance corporal, was charged with killing 34-year-old Tiger Bay resident, Marlon Fredericks.

Fredericks, 34, who was unarmed, was allegedly shot

by Bascom as he escaped from detention at the Bourda Market Outpost.

The Tiger Bay resident, who was described as mentally ill, was shot in his mother's presence, as he ran out of the Outpost, where he was being detained on allegations of simple larceny, assault, and for assaulting a peace officer.

The accused is on $800,000 bail.

We want to inspire new culture in terms of Health

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esidents of Linden and surrounding communities were yesterday afforded the opportunity to participate in a health fair on the Linden/Georgetown bus park.

The Fair formed part of the Linden Town Week of activities.

Delon Daly, Government Medical Officer, attached to the Linden Hospital Complex, told the media, "The motto for this Town Week is Rekindling our culture. “You know that in Guyana, there are certain old cultures, with regard to health, that we uphold- so we

....Health Officer want to inspire new culture in terms of health."

Bailey said that the objective of the Health Fair is to sensitize persons about good health practices and how to take care of themselves- especially those afflicted with chronic diseases.

He added that the Merundoi team was involved in the Fair, to raise persons' consciousness, of environmental health and the effects of global warning.

Dust was described as the main pollutant in Linden.

Daly advised that residents

instead of just dusting their homes regularly, develop the habit of regular wiping with wet rags, to help alleviate this problem.

Wetting of the roads in areas such as Block 22 and other dust prone communities is also being encouraged.

The Health Fair featured booths that dealt with blood donations, blood pressure and diabetes testing, eye Care and testing, HIV and tuberculosis testing and counselling among others.

With regard to the blood drive, Daly said that efforts are being made to increase the blood supply at the Linden Hospital Complex.

Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

Kaieteur News

PAGE 16

Thursday April 25, 2019

Improved relationship with Education Ministry noted at GTU's first Triennial conference A section of the gathering at the opening session (Ministry of Education photo)

Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry, addressing the delegates and awardees (Ministry of Education photo)

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ealthy relations are paramount to any s u c c e s s f u l partnerships.

This was the disclosure of President of the Guyana Teachers Union [GTU], Mr. Mark Lyte, even as the union opened its first Triennial Delegates Conference last evening in the

Bertram Hamilton Auditorium of the Union's Woolford Avenue, Georgetown headquarters.

As he emphasised the notion of partnership, Lyte noted that there has been an improved relationship between the Ministry of Education and the GTU. He said at the opening

ceremony, too, that as a stakeholder in the delivery of education to the Guyanese populace, the GTU is committed to ensuring that regular meetings are held and decisions taken are implemented.

The GTU President also emphasised the need for continued collaboration between all

stakeholders in the education sector to ensure the smooth implementation of policies.

Further, the GTU President said that the Union has experienced several achievements over the last three years.

He said that several of those achievements were directly related to the honouring of specifics agreed on the last Memorandum of Agreement between the Ministry of Education and the GTU. Regarding the business of the Triennial Delegates Conference, Lyte said that the event seeks to engage each participant in meaningful discussions so that the future of the union can be brighter.

He said, “As a union, we are not limiting ourselves to trade union matters but also to the business of education and the relevant changes we need to vehemently support which are critical to the advancement of an educated nation.”

Minister of Education, Ms. Nicolette Henry, in delivering her solidarity message said that the contributions of teachers and the GTU to the development of Guyana are recognised and respected.

She said that with this recognition, like so many other countries, Guyana is working assiduously to strengthen its human and social development platform, and that a key part of this effort is the preparation of empowerment of citizens with the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to realise sustainable development.

Minister Henry said, too, that at the forefront of this noble task are the nation's teachers, and are thus inextricably linked to the country's realisation of sustainable socioeconomic development.

She added that the Ministry of Education is aware that the GTU has responsibility for ensuring that the working conditions and welfare of teachers are satisfactorily met.

“For this to be fruitful, continued collaboration between the Ministry and the Guyana Teachers' Union is therefore essential. This collaboration will also allow for an upward progression of our Education

system and more significantly, the possible realisation of our nation's socio-economic development,” Minister Henry remarked.

She noted that last year the GTU and the Ministry of Education successfully negotiated wages, salaries and other benefits for teachers. She said that this year, the two parties are back at the negotiating table working towards even more favourable outcomes.

Meanwhile, the Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection with responsibility for Labour, Mr. Keith Scott, said that Government is keeping its promise to improve the education sector for all Guyanese.

He said that this commitment is evident in the substantial budgetary allocations towards the sector through the national budget.

He encouraged the Union's members that teamwork is an essential pillar in the unity that the GTU seeks to promote during its Triennial Conference.

Remarks were also given by Mr. Seepaul Narine, representing the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG); Mr. Sherwood Clarke, President of the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU); Member of Parliament and former Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand; Regional Chairperson of Region Four, Ms. Genevieve Allen; and the Mayor of New Amsterdam, Her Worship Winifred Heywood.

During the opening session Tuesday evening the GTU showed its appreciation for those members that have made significant contributions by distributing several awards.

There was also the awarding of the Presidential Medal to three members. Those members that have passed away were also remembered.

The conference, which began yesterday, will continue until Friday. The GTU membership is being represented by delegates from all three counties-- Essequibo, Berbice and Demerara. According to Lyte, the union is regarded as one of the oldest and most vocal trade unions in Guyana.

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

PAGE 17

Region Four NDCs urged to adhere to procurement, other financial regulations

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eclaring at the start of 2019 that this year will see a significant increase in training within every sector, the Demerara/Mahaica Region Four administration yesterday held a one-day workshop. The training targeted staffers from the 17 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils [NDCs] which form part of Region Four was held at the BV/Quamina Primary School and saw 105 officials in attendance.

Regional Chairman, Ms. Genevieve Allen, congratulated the participants for seizing the opportunity to attend, while thanking the Regional Democratic Council [RDC] for recognising such an urgent need for the training and thus putting in place the necessary measures to conduct the workshop.

Allen, at the opening of the forum told the participants that they should be gathering information that will help them guide and direct their councils even in a more efficient manner.

She reminded them that the councils as well as the a dm i n i s t r a t o r s a r e accountable to the constituents, even as she warned that the residents will only come forward and pay their rates and taxes if they develop confidence in those who are entrusted with managing the NDCs. “They will only pay if they have confidence that you are going to spend the resources that you received in a wise manner. In a manner done in an equitable,” Allen said.

She continued, “I often say that th e w o r k o f t h e councillors is more than sitting around the horseshoe table and I will continue to repeat it. It is working on the ground among the people who are expected to benefit from the services provided

by the council.

During campaigns, we are up and about [but] after we are elected our constituents are seeking our attention.”

The Regional Chairman implored all the participants to use the information that they receive to ensure that they govern their councils in a very transparent manner and to ensure that after they would have completed their term of office that they would have left a legacy that many can emulate.

Stressing the urgency and critical need for such a workshop in improving the skills and knowledge base of leaders at the NDCs level, Regional Vice Chairman, E a r l e L a m b e r t , u rg e d participants to not see the workshop as just 'another' workshop but as one which can and has the potential to truly empower them.

He said that workshops like these are rare. He noted the resource persons drawn from the region to conduct the workshop are all highly skilled and knowledgeable in the respective area that they are conducting the training. He noted that the combination of elected and selected officials will add to the variety of the training, adding that a review of several of the NDCs will reveal the urgent and critical need for training.

Lambert reminded the participants that the training is c r u c i a l f o r t h e i r development within the NDC. The Vice Chairman who also heads the Regional Wo r k s C o m m i t t e e impressed upon the participants the need for them to utilise the information that will be shared.

He declared that it would certainly enhance the way that many of the NDCs are conducting themselves.

Blaming inexperience and

- as REO calls for transparency among overseers A section of the audience

ignorance, Lambert said that many times he is disappointed to see the way several of the NDCs conduct their business, noting that the issue of procurement continues to be a burning one. The training which targeted a number of areas was organised after the Regional Executive Officer, Ms. Pauline Lucas.

Ms. Lucas expressed an urgent need for such training.

She made this call after declaring at a meeting held with the then 15 NDCs that there was a need for urgent and significant training. She warned several NDCs about blatantly and deliberately breaching procurement regulations, while expressing disappointment in the manner that several NDCs were operating in terms of holding meetings and managing their council's finances.

As such, the training organised specifically for the NDCs sought to address a

number of issues among them, the conducting of meetings which was facilitated by the Region's District Development Officers [DDO] - Rickford Profit and Sherlock Hudson.

Regional Development Officer [RDO], Reshme Chetan, dealt with the Committees of the Council as she explained the various committees that are mandatory within the NDCs. Explaining the roles of administration/councils was the Assistant Regional Executive Officer [AREO], Ramnarine Singh.

Singh also dealt with the issue of financial management, which was identified as a grey area among several of the NDCs. He addressed a number of issues, stressing the urgent need for proper financial management declaring that the workshop is not another 'talk shop' as the region is serious about enhancing the overall conduct and

performances of NDCs. He reminded the officials that they should become familiar with their role and responsibilities declaring that it would aid in them delivering effective and efficient service to residents.

Another major area of concern was procurement, which saw REO Lucas addressing this at length. The REO pointed out that procurement makes up for 90 percent of funds used with the remaining 10 percent is for salaries and other minor expenses.

She urged participants to familiarise themselves with the procurement act declaring that knowing and understanding the act is their first responsibility in providing value for monies that their NDCs would have received.

Lucas noted that it was as a result of her passion and desire to have accountability and fairness that led to her setting up within the RDCs

the first established procurement department.

The REO said that while it is not fully staffed, which is responsible for some of its shortfalls, she is determined that a reputable and accountable system has been put in place to monitor how the region's monies are being spent. This, she stressed, is very important and should be modelled by the various NDCs. “Everything that you do must be out there and when the auditors come, you must be confident that you didn't do anything contrary as the auditors are there to do their job. None of us are perfect so the auditors will tell you where you went wrong and the next time you will not make the same mistake.

“We must strive to be transparent in everything that we do, and I am appealing to the Overseers that you are expected to be transparent in whatever you do,” she reiterated.

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Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

PAGE 19

Guyana among countries bolstering surveillance R In wake of outbreaks in the Americas...

ecent outbreaks of measles, yellow fever and diphtheria in neighbouring Brazil, Venezuela, and other countries in the Americas have left Guyana, and other countries, scrambling to intensify their vaccination activities.

This observation has been made by PAHO/WHO Resident Representative, Dr. William Adu Krow, even as Guyana joins the rest of the world to commemorate Vaccination Week in the Americas which spans April 20 to April 27, 2019.

This year marks the 17th observance of the Vaccination Week of the Americas campaign which is being held under the theme: “Protect your community, do y o u r p a r t - # G e t Va x , #VaccineWorks.”

Vaccination Week in the Americas is said to be an extraordinary effort led by

the countries and territories of the Americas to advance equity, access to vaccination and Pan Americanism in general. Pan Americanism is a movement that seeks to create, encourage and organise relationships, associations and cooperation among the states of the Americas through diplomatic, political economic and social means.

The Vaccination Week activities seek to strengthen the national immunisation programmes by reaching out to populations with little access to regular health services, such as those populations living in rural and border areas in indigenous communities.

Moreover, during the observance of Vaccination Week, PAHO/WHO will be collaborating with the local Ministry of Public Health to further bolster efforts to strengthen surveillance and

conduct vaccination mop up activities in the bordering and outlying communities.

Dr. Adu Krow has therefore urged that “the public should ensure that their families are protected from all vaccine preventable diseases especially measles, yellow fever and diphtheria.”

Persons are being urged to contact the nearest health centre in their area and to ask questions on these vaccines, Dr. Adu Krow said.

He made the appeal to, “Get Vaccinated Now! Protect yourself and your family from Measles, diphtheria, Tetanus and yellow fever; protect your community, do your part.”

Given Guyana's track record, it is certainly poised to successfully combat these health concerns.

According to Dr. Adu Krow's observation, Guyana has had numerous successes with its immunisation programme over several decades by implementing

tactical strategies to combat preventable diseases in children.

Guyana's Expanded P r o g r a m m e o n Immunization [EPI] was initiated in the late 1970s with vaccinations against six diseases namely measles, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, diphtheria and tuberculosis.

The last case of yellow fever was in 1968, measles in 1991 and the last case of polio was in 1962.

At the end of 2018, the EPI offered additional antigens against yellow fever, hepatitis B, mumps heamophilus influenza, rubella, rotavirus and p n e u m o c o c c a l , meningococcal, and human papilloma virus were included. This programme has since expanded from a child immunization programme to a family immunization programme, Dr. Adu Krow shared.

Over 42 years, PAHO/WHO has

contributed to the milestones of the achievements in the Americas which include the eradication of small pox, polio and measles, establishment of Vaccination Week of the Americas, the completion of the switch from trivalent oral polio vaccines to bivalent oral polio vaccines as part of the polio eradication plan for

countries.

Also new vaccines were introduced to protect against influenza, respiratory illness and cervical cancer. This, the PAHO/WHO Rep. said, has been brought about by the strong commitment of health workers in the immunisation field.

The history of vaccination week of the Americas dates back to 2002 which was prompted by a measles outbreak.

The health ministers of countries in the Andean region proposed a coordinated vaccination effort to strengthen vaccination week in the Americas.

Since the first celebration of Vaccination Week in the Americas in 2003, more than 323 million individuals of all ages have been vaccinated against a wide range of vaccine preventable diseases through activities conducted under the framework of the initiative.

From page 2 passenger boarding bridges have been reduced to four.

Patterson made it clear that the blame for the airport troubles has to be at the doorstep of the Opposition as they made significant decisions including, shifting the runway extension from the north side to the south side that had impact on the timeline and finance of the project.

Benn, who signed the contract as Minister of Public Infrastructure in late 2011, days before the general elections, called for a public probe this week.

He insisted that there is no way that a fixed price contract could be changed or modified like that.

He wants to know how the money was spent.

Patterson, in response yesterday, said that having read the former Minister's comment, it shed some light on the working of the ministry under the PPP. “While I have zero interest in getting into a debate with the former minister, since I am aware he has far more important matters at hand, such as boycotting weekly statutory meetings of GECOM, I am

compelled to highlight a few glaring points of concerns raised in his response.”

Patterson noted that the former minister had admitted that the project supervision fell, initially under the Works Service Group of the Ministry of Works until an international supervision was awarded the supervision consultancy. “…This is an incredible statement coming from a former Minister of Works in response to the lack of independent supervision on a Design and Build Contract for more than three years after the contract signing.

“In my over 25 years as a consultant in the construction industry, I have never heard of any Government or even private sector organization supervising a D&B contract

in-house, the reason is simple – risk.”

Patterson also argued that a Design and Build (D&B) Contract means that the contractor designs the project, submits it to the client representatives, who reviews and approves these designs and then the contractor builds the project.

“In house supervision of a D&B contract is akin to a lawyer representing himself and as the old adage goes – “A lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client”.

In fact, in projects such as CJIA, the project consultants are retained long before the contractors are even engaged.

“This has been standard practice worldwide – a simple Google search will confirm these details.”

Minister Patterson also

said that Benn makes no mention of several important issues such as the complete lack of feasibility studies, soil investigations, and market surveys before the award of the CJIA contract and most importantly – the lack of any public procurement process in selecting the contractor.

“Now that former Minister Benn is willing to discuss this project publicly, it would be interesting to hear from him, how and where was this project conceptualized, how did the contractor know that GoG (Government of Guyana) was interested in expanding the airport, since the rest of the country was unaware of this project.

“We learnt about it from a press release from the construction company in Jamaica.

PAHO/WHO Resident Rep., Dr. William Adu Krow

Farmer gets nine years for killing friend in Patterson welcomes public probe drunken brawl of US$150M CJIA renovation

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a r t i n Salvadore, 54, was sentenced to nine years' imprisonment for chopping a man to death during a drunken brawl on October 16, 2014 in Essequibo.

Initially, Salvadore was charged with the capital o f f e n c e , m u r d e r. H e , however, opted to plead guilty to the lesser coun of manslaughter when he appeared before Justice Navindra Singh yesterday.

According to facts presented by State Prosecutor Teriq Mohamed, on the day in question the now deceased Wilson James, was at Salvadore's home imbibing when they became involved in a fight.

During that time, Wilson picked up a bicycle bar which he used to lash Salvadore. In turn, Salvadore armed himself with a cutlass which he used to chop Wilson about his body.

Attorney-at-Law Mark Conway asked the court to be lenient with his client given his age and the fact that he is a father of eight.

The lawyer said that his client is extremely remorseful about what he did, and has had time to seek forgiveness.

JAILED: Martin Salvadore After passing the sentence, Justice Singh urged Salvadore to enjoy life. The Judge also ordered that prison officials deduct the time Salvadore spent on remand from the sentence.

This case was heard at the High Court in Georgetown.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 20

Tomb raiders strike again!!

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he tomb raiders have struck again, this time vandalizing a tomb within the La Belle Alliance Cemetery, on the Essequibo Coast.

According to reports reaching Kaieteur News, the tomb held the remains of an elderly woman. After further enquires, it was disclosed that the tomb was that of Enid Warner, a once popular businesswoman who died on June 10, 1994.

The discovery was first made last week Thursday by a resident of the La Belle Alliance community. There are speculations, however, that the tomb may have been broken into about a week earlier, since a woman recalled hearing noise in the cemetery during the morning hours, around the said period.

When Kaieteur News visited the grave last Tuesday, it was observed that grill work, which surrounds the concrete tomb, was torched. It was also observed that the side of the tomb was bashed it, and a piece of 2x4 timber lay nearby.

The inside of the tomb, however, seemed quite empty. It was concluded that the corpse was missing, apart from a leg that was still lying nearby.

The family members explained that efforts were being made to have the police contacted. Gail Warner said that she could

Jailed indefinitely for no reason and made to suffer twice…

Berbice labourer prepares to sue magistrate for wrongful imprisonment

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A photograph of the deceased think of no reason why someone will want to vandalize her dead mother's tomb. She also explained that the deceased was buried with no material possessions that may be of great value.

In September 2018, three tombs were vandalized within the said cemetery. During that period the heads of the three corpses were removed.

The tomb that was vandalized

Pork knocker admits to fatally chopping man, jailed for 12 years

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lad in a bright yellow shirt, 24year-old Mark Creame, appeared before Justice Navindra Singh at the High Court in Georgetown, yesterday.

The murder accused, who chose to plead guilty to the lesser count manslaughter, was ordered to serve a 12year prison term for fatally chopping a man. He admitted that on December 1, 2013, he unlawfully killed Terry Henry, c/d Terrence Henry.

According to the facts, Creame and Henry had an ongoing dispute. On the day in question, Creame, who was intoxicated, saw Henry at a shop and confronted him.

They had an argument and Creame left the scene and returned with a cutlass which he used to chop Henry, who was lying in a hammock. The killing occurred at 8 miles North West District, Port Kaituma.

In his address to the

Thursday April 25, 2019

JAILED: Mark Creame court, Creame, a pork knocker and father of two, begged for leniency. He said that he was extremely sorry for his actions.

H i s l a w y e r, M a r k Conway, shared similar sentiments. According to Conway, his client has had time to reflect on what he had done.

Conway urged the Judge to consider that his client

pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity when arriving at a sentence.

According to the lawyer, his client can be described as a model prisoner since he actively participates in programmes offered by the prison, and also attends church.

In calculating a sentence for the confessed killer, Justice Singh considered his early guilty plea, his expression of remorse and his continuous good behaviour while in prison.

The Judge ordered that the prison authority deduct the years Creame spent in pretrial custody.

Justice Singh advised the killer to desist from consuming excessive alcohol and to make the most of life when he is released back into society.

The case for the State was presented by Prosecutors Teriq Mohamed, Abigail Gibbs and Tuanna Hardy.

e was shot and badly wounded and left to die miles away from road, in the backlands of Port Mourant amidst spells of unconsciousness and days in hospital and numerous surgeries. He was left with lifelong scars a bad experience for anyone to bear. Then to be wrongfully sent to prison indefinitely by a Magistrate on the same matter in the same jail with the man who killed your partner and wounded you, is more than enough injustice one can endure.

Navendra Permaul is preparing to take legal action against Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh who sent him to jail indefinitely.

Permaul, 42, of Tain Settlement, Corentyne, Berbice was jailed indefinitely by Magistrate Singh after the man attendance in court was inconsistent and the evidence he gave was deemed contrary and hostile.

Permaul was reportedly shot and injured by recently freed murder accused Suresh Sakawat called “Vishal” on June 2nd at Expectation, Port Mourant Back Dam. During the same incident his partner Sasenarine Baljit, 40, called “Frying Pan” was shot and killed. Permaul had stated that he and Baljit were at the camp when they were reportedly shot around 21:00hrs, by Sakawat, who entered the camp armed with a gun.

Following an altercation Sakawat opened fire on them and he and Baljit began to run. He was hit in his belly and right foot. He did not know what happened after.

He regained consciousness in hospital. He was taken out

Planning to sue: Navendra Permaul of the back dam the next day and rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was admitted and u n d e r w e n t e m e rg e n c y surgery.

He thought that Baljit 'Frying Pan' had escaped the onslaught. A search was mounted for Baljit, but it was not until days later that his bullet-riddled body was found floating in a trench.

Permaul stated that he was subsequently called to give evidence in the matter in the Whim Magistrate's Court.

The matter was transferred to the Springlands Magistrate's court, but, he was not notified and missed court dates. When he turned up he was deemed a hostile witness. He said Magistrate Singh told him that he is sending him to jail to be with Sakawat until the High Court is ready for him. He was sent to jail.

He said that he was not charged in the matter, but was a victim. He was not told

why he was being sent to prison indefinitely.

His imprisonment got to the knowledge of Justice Jo Ann Barlow and Permaul was recently freed by the Judge after she found that there is no reason why he should be in jail.

Permaul said that he languish in jail for a year and is very thankful to Justice Barlow for setting him free and giving him his freedom again.He suffered irreparable damage to his character and does not know what the future holds. Since his house was left unattended and does not know what is the position with his family. He wasted an entire year of his life and is out of a job.

He is also questioning the prison system and how they accept prisoners without d o c u m e n t s . P e r ma u l said,”Them boys in Jail told me to sue the Magistrate, since the man jail me fu nothing.”. He is making moves to follow up on the matter.

UG's Vice Chancellor and Principal...

From page 13 precisely at $52,870,353 and $194,419,000 respectively.

Professor Griffith said that this steep increase is due to the fact that fewer persons constituted the executive body in 2013.

On salaries for other staff of the university, the Vice Chancellor stated, “In 2017, staff received salary increases of six and eight percent. In 2018, the increases were three and four percent – tax free.

Also noteworthy, is that every time the base salary increase, the sum of the housing allowance, which is 20 percent of the base salary, also increases by the percentage of the base salary increase.”

Griffith said that the graphics provided by the union leaders is part of a campaign they are on to force him out of the institution, since he has signaled his interest in renewing his contract, upon its expiry.

The unions await an audit to be done into the administration's operations.

Due to these requests, the Ministry of Education has written to the administration, notifying them of the unions' request. In response, Vice Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith said, “The Administration welcomes the opportunity to clear the air on the allegations and assertions by the unions and other individuals.”

He said that the Administration is willing to have its financial position examined by any competent and independent Arbiter.

On the other hand, he said that the union leaders have ignored the administration's request for information “that would facilitate transparency and accountability” of the two unions.

“We asked them for items every credible union should have: their Articles of Association, Certificates of Recognition from the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board, and recent statements of income and expenditure,” Griffith said.

Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

Police quarters for rehabilitation The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) received bids for a range of projects aimed at rehabilitating living quarters for junior and senior police officers.

Also received were two bids for the rehabilitation of a building at Christ Church Secondary School. These projects conclude the NPTAB’s bid openings for last Tuesday.

Ministry of Public Security Rehabilitation Works to Senior Officers’ Living Quarters – Rabbit Walk, Eve Leary

Rehabilitation of Mahaicony Police Station Fence, Region 5

(Continued on page 23)

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Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

French Guiana Bar association visits AG VACANCY Industrial Sales Representative, 5 Subject CXC Age 25+ Experience in Sales, must own vehicle, email r e s u m e : vacancy@josarltd.com SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisement, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535.

ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.

TO LET Business space to rent. No restaurant. Serious enquiries only. 233 South Road 225-0198/615-0317.

FOR SALE House lot Layon street North Ruimveldt.Call 6144075 or 266-2355.

LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/6912561 LAND FOR SALE Loo creek 35 Acres from Road $35M, Saxaealli 25 Acres, River Friendship $30M, Support River Front $30M.Shawn#2312199/618-7483.

Parfaite Harmonie $1.4M, Schoonard $3.6M, Dairy $1.8M, Farm $3.5M.Tel#6560701/651-1959

Self contain rooms for WANTED working couple/single person $32,000 monthly, light & water, Lodge.Call:623-0076.

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Top flat two bedroom Apartment with toilet and bath, overhead tank and p a r k i n g available.Price:$45,000.Phone#6128380.

4 bedroom newly built house 5th Avenue Diamond EBD. Fully grilled, hot & cold water system $180,000 per month. #696-3915 New one bedroom Apartment for rent.Meadowbrook Gardens.Rent $45K.Contact Lennox at 233-2306.

2 Bedroom Apt fully furnished, 1 bedroom Apt fully furnished, 3 bedroom Apt fully furnished in Providence.Tel:682-6238 or whatsapp 1246-833-9739/6607716.

Vacancy exists for certified accountant.

Bring in application to Agri Parts Machinery and Services.

L-R Joan Bond, Deputy Chief Parliamentary Counsel; Jeremy Stanislas, Member of French Guiana Bar Association; Travise Tracey-Lecante, Vacancy exist for 2 Honorary Consul of Guyana in French Guiana; Hon. Basil Williams, SC,MP Experienced cooks@People’s ,Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs; Lucie Louze –Donzenac, Choice Kitchen 88 James st Albouystown.Tel:679-9449/ Head of Delegation, Former President of the French Guiana Bar Association 223-1645.Strictly night shift. and Marcel Alex Leblanc, Member of the French Guiana Bar Association.

Dispatcher to work at a On Wednesday, members reputable taxi service in greater of the French Guiana Bar Georgetown. Contact# 613- Association comprising Ms 0700.

Lucie Louze-Donzenac, Head Vacancy for Security of Delegation and former President of the French Guards.Contact#227-1717.

Guiana Bar Association; Mr. Receptionist, Deskstaff.Ages Marcel Alex Leblanc and Mr. 25-40, 233 South Road Jérémy Stanislas paid a courtesy call on the Attorney Lacytown/225-0198.

General and Minister of Legal 1 Male cook for Interior$100,000 monthly.Experienced workers for Land Dredge.Tel:629-8280.

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 25-45, Car/Van licence.Call 642-9823.

CAR RENTAL

FOR RENT

Female kitchen assistant for interior location. Job entails assisting cooks and cleaning.

Call 618-2020.

DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL:225-7126/ 2263 6 9 3 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL @YAHOO.COM/ WWW.D OLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL:643-5122/ 6 5 6 - 0 0 8 7 , ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM

Vacancy for Experienced lorry/ tractor driver.Apply at Alabama Trading.65 Robb street Bourda.

Vacancy for porters. Apply at Alabama Trading. 65 Robb Street Bourda.

Nirva Superstore 49 Sherrif & Craig str for Cashiers & Supermarket helpers.Apply in person with written application.Tel#227-5771.

WANTED

WANTED We buy Land in Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt, Eccles, Providence, Herstelling, Farm.We Pay in $US.Tel#648-1635.

Wanted Security Supervisor.Must have own Vehicle.Ages 30-55.Call 6166988.

Accounts clerk.Ages 2555.Please call 616-6988.

House for sale, Eccles Housing Scheme. 7 bedrooms, 3 toilets and bathrooms enclosed. $28.5M. Call 6420391/ 001447587233657. yashardabhola4@gmail.com

Live in waitress to work in a bar.Must be 18-23yrs old.

Must have ID.Contact# 2212785.

1 Welder, gas welding & arc.Age 18-25.Apply@ 21 Broad street, Fat Man Welding shop.223-5595/6439125.

1 Live in domestic. Must know to cook.Age 25-50yrs.

Salary $25,000 per week.6103974.

Waitress to work in Bar #6614863

1 Flat concrete property at Diamond 19th Street.12M neg. Contact#680-2952/6632063.

Ladies to wash 5 gal bottles.Must be living between CI & Parika.Tel#6930388.

South; Aubrey Barker 100x100.$35M, John street Cambellville $40M, Thomas street Cummingsburg 27M.Contact#231-2199, 6187483.

1 Experienced Canter driver/ salesman to work on water truck.Must be living between CI & Parika.Tel#693-0388.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

VEHICLE FOR SALE Allion, primo, spacio, allex, noah, RZ pitbull bus, mazda axela, bluebird, 192 fielder wagon. 650-7501

Wanted Skilled Carpenters to work in Linden.602-9469/ 660-6385.

Boys & girls to work @ Bonny’s.Apply in person with written application@302 Church street G/ town,Charlestown.

1 Masseuse.3 times per week.Contact 672-5625.

One Cashier to work shift.Apply in person at Buddy’s Gym 137 Sherrif street 231-0136.

1 female or male receptionist.Must have Supervisor to work at Xenon Maths and English.1 Handy Hotel Charity.Contact 233man.Apply in person at 12 Henry street Werk-en-Rust.

5273/74.

Affairs, Basil Williams, SC, MP. The team was accompanied by Ms TraviseLecante, Honorary Consul of Guyana in French Guiana.

The visit concerned the French Guiana Bar Association hosting a Seminar in October 2019 on fundamental human rights.

The seminar is aimed at lawyers who reside in the Guiana Shield (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and Amapa Brazil).

The aim of the seminar is to foster deeper relations between members of the bar of the various jurisdictions to find solutions to solve human rights issues that exist in the Guiana Shield. One of the human rights issues highlighted by the team was overcrowding in the prisons in French Guiana.

Other issues highlighted and discussed during the visit were family rights, rights of minors and the need for removal of barriers that hinder business between countries in the Guiana Shield.

The team indicated that there are difficulties with foreigners getting the requisite permit to do business which ultimately hinders investment. To this end, they suggested that there should be a circulation

permit for citizens of the Guiana Shield and perhaps an agreement between the countries to tackle this issue.

The Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs said, that there is need for a greater relationship between the countries that ensures free movement of persons and services. Further, he stated that Guyana is fertile ground for investment owing to the burgeoning oil industry.

Mr Williams also informed the group that Guyana has signed on to the Hague Conventions, namely the Apostille Convention and the Hague Family Law Conventions dealing with inter-country adoption, recovery of child support and other forms of family maintenance, abduction and parental responsibility and measures for the protection of children.

These Conventions, he stated, would facilitate the ease of doing international business by removing the legal obstacles and protect and ensure that the best interest of the child is paramount.

The visiting delegation was pleased as France has extended some of the Hague Conventions to French Guiana.

Thursday April 25, 2019

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

CDB pays tribute to Sir Alister Police quarters for rehabilitation

The Caribbean Development Bank has joined the wider regional community in mourning the loss of Sir Alister McIntyre, OCC, a Caribbean statesman, a scholar, a true Caribbean son.

In a statement issued yesterday, the CDB said, “Though we mourn his passing, we celebrate his life – one which he dedicated to the cause of Caribbean integration and development.”

Born and raised in Grenada, Sir Alister shared his intellect and ability with the entire Region. His work and

his scholarship as a development economist and an integrationist influenced many regional leaders; and his legacy will endure through generations. “ We a r e e s p e c i a l l y grateful for the leading role he played in shaping CARICOM and the U n i v e r s i t y o f t h e We s t Indies as SecretaryGeneral and Vi c e Chancellor, respectively,” the CDB noted.

“Sir Alister’s vision of a stronger, more integrated Caribbean is one which we share at CDB. Almost 50 years ago, the architects of

the Bank mandated us to promote economic cooperation and integration among our regional members, having special and urgent regard to our less developed member countries.

“We will continue to b u i l d o n t h e s t rong foundation which Sir Alister left behind as we work to accelerate the economic development of our Region.

“We offer our deepest condolences to his wife, Marjorie and children, Arnold, Andrew, Helga and Nicholas.

We thank them for sharing him with us.”

From page 21 Rehabilitation Works to East La Penitence Police Station

Rehabilitation Works to SWAT Building – Rabbit Walk, Eve Leary

Ministry of Education Design and Supervision Services – Rehabilitation of Building, Christ Church Secondary School

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

Thursday April 25, 2019

PAGE 25

Kaieteur News

Linden Town Week Mayor’s Cup Football

Haynes and Lewis Connection edgeEagles United 4-2 on penalties to grab title It took the penalty goalkeeping heroics of striker Shaquille Frank to once more hand Haynes and Winners Connection victory and the first ever Linden Mayor’s Cup football title when they scored a 4-2 penalty shootout win with Eagles United on Tuesday night as part of this year’s Linden Town Week activities.

Playing in front of a crowd which was split between two deserving finalists Eagles United first gained the lead through Quasi Quintin who capitalized on a lapse by the Winners Connection goal-

keeper and tucked home the goal and the lead in the 35th minute of play and this lead would remain up to the break.

However, after play resumed Winners Connection would level things when Shaquille Frank scored in the 53rdminute and from there the battle was truly on.

When the end of 90 minutes was blown the scores read 1-1 and even extra period of 15 minutes could not separate the two teams. It would boil down to the decision making by Winners Connection and this was to change

Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection celebrate along with Linden Mayor Ms. Waneka Arrendel (3rd left).

Shaquille Frank the role of Frank from where he was to take over goalkeeping duties.

Thursday 25, April 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A friend may ask to borrow some money today, Aries.

You may feel that he or she is asking for more than is really needed, and certainly more than you're willing to give.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Some of your job responsibilities are too much for one person and they might weigh you down today, Taurus. The pile of work seems to get steadily bigger no matter what you do.

Delegate if you can.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) A sudden fascination with metaphysical or spiritual concepts could have you wanting to read as much as you can on the subject, Gemini.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) A business enterprise with a friend might seem a little shaky today, Cancer. You could alternate between enthusiasm and gloom regarding this project. It's probably a good one and could lead to the success you want.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) - A business deal that you may have been working to finish could require you to tie up a lot of loose ends today, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Accomplishing some important business might require touching base with many people who live and work far away, perhaps in other countries.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) If you've been thinking about investing, Libra, this isn't the day to commit to anything. This is a great day to consider your options, study economic trends, and analyze what you want from investing.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Working at home could be difficult today, especially if you're finalizing a business deal, Scorpio. Other household members will be coming and going, slamming doors, asking questions, bringing their friends in..

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Today you might feel the urge to get all unfinished work done, Sagittarius. You could suddenly be in a frenzy to work quickly but perhaps not as conscientiously as you should.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A sudden burst of inspiration for a creative project might keep you busy in the morning and afternoon, Capricorn.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Too many people may be vying for your attention today, Aquarius, both at work and home. You will want to make them all happy, so you may feel a little frazzled.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Communications coming your way today may be more plentiful than useful, Pisces.

You could receive lots of confusing phone calls.

This tactic worked in the previous game and it did once more as Frank brought off two saves which propelled his team to gain a 42 advantage with one kick remaining for Eagles United which was not going to

change the end result.In the first game of the night the National Under-17 put two past the Linden Under-20 to win 2-0.

In the their place playoff match, Net Rockers stopped

Capital FC 2-1 as Royston Fraser netted in the 28th minute and Joel Isaacs in the 70th minute accounted for the winning team’s goals. Tyric McAllister scored the consolation goal in the 39th minute for the Capital FC side. -

Several teams record victories ..

From page 28 Safraz Kadir 21 not out. Aftab Hussain picked up three wickets and Khalil two.

Tuschen Train Station Masjid vs LBI Tuschen Train Station Masjid won the toss and took first strike making 1798. Opener Daniel Chunoo struck 73 runs (2 x 4, 7 x 6); Timothy Persaud got 23 while extras assisted with 24.

Safraz Ally and Rafeek Abdul had three and two wickets in that order.

LBI in their turn at the crease found it difficult to keep up with the required run rate and stumbled to 149 all out in 14.5 overs. Imran Khan made 17 runs (3 x 4).

The main destroyers were Harry Singh with four wickets, Anthony Kandar and Timothy Persaud with three each.

Corneila Ida/Hague Masjid failed to turn up and LBI was awarded the victory by walkover.

Former NBA player arrives...

From page 30 organising in partnership with Xperience Outreach in the United States. Guyanese youth players are talented and driven and deserve ever opportunity that will help them move to the next level whether it’s playing college basketball or even in the NBA. Both Taylor and Mahler are excited to be visiting Guyana for the first time.”

Interested persons or groups can call or whatsapp 678-9621 for more information.

PAGE 26

Thursday April 25, 2019

Kaieteur News

West Indies names squad for ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 England & Wales Gayle leads batting that includes Andre Russell BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Talismanic opener Chris Gayle heads a powerful batting line-up that sees the return of fellow left-hander Evin Lewis and Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel lead an exciting bowling attack in the preliminary squad of two-time champions West Indies for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 England and Wales.

Interim chairman of the Cricket West Indies selection panel Robert Haynes announced the squad during a media conference yesterday at the Sandals Royal Resort today here.

The 15-member squad includes nine players that will be making their first appearance in the global showpiece, including emerging batting star Shimron Hetmyer, the captain of the West Indies Under19 side that won its first ever ICC Youth World Cup three years ago in Bangladesh and the side is boosted with the

inclusion of big-hitting allrounder Andre Russell.

“Based on the new selection policy approach which allowed us to consider a number of players that have not regularly appeared in the side over the last two years, we had a wide base of talent from which to choose,” said Haynes.

“There were a number of tough calls we had to make to settle on our squad of 15, including ensuring there was some continuity in the side, but we believe we have chosen a strong squad of players taking into consideration such factors as experience, fitness, team balance, current form and conditions.”

“In keeping with tournament regulations, we submitted our squad prior to the deadline date of yesterday. All players named for the Tri-Nations Series could, however, stake a claim to be in the final 15-member squad that will be

submitted after the Tri-Series and before the final deadline next month.”

Gayle will be making a record fifth World Cup appearance for West Indies and needs just 253 runs to overtake fellow left-hander Brian Lara and become the leading batsman for the Caribbean side in One-day Internationals. The self-proclaimed, “Universe Boss” is the headline act of a batting line-up capable of changing the complexion of any game with enterprising stroke-play.

“To have a player the caliber of Chris in the side to lead the batting with his vast experience and his ability to play match-winning or gamechanging innings is a blessing for us and the motivation of becoming the leading scorer for West Indies in ODIs is something which I think he will relish,” said Haynes.

“Looking at the condition of pitches in ODIs over the

Key players find touch ahead of Tri-Nations Series BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Stroke-maker Darren Bravo and all-rounder, Raymon Reifer, both gathered half-centuries while speedsters Shannon Gabriel and Sheldon Cottrell snatched three-wicket hauls, as they all warmed up for the Tri-Nations Series starting in Ireland next week with strong performances Playing in a practice game against a Barbados Cricket Association XI at 3W’s Oval, UWI Cave Hill Campus on Tuesday, Bravo top-scored with 64 and fellow left-hander Reifer carved out 62, as the West Indies XI tallied 326 for seven off 50 overs.

Roston Chase struck 36 while Sunil Ambris and Jonathan Carter both chipped in with 33 apiece.

Left-hander John Campbell, who made his oneday debut earlier this year against England, struck 28 off 31 balls in a 49-run opening stand with the uncapped Shane Dowrich (12).

When both fell in the space of nine balls, Bravo stepped up to anchor two stands – adding 77 for the third wicket with Chase and a further 57 for the fourth wicket with Carter.

All told, Bravo faced 76 balls and lashed three fours and four sixes.

Reifer then controlled the latter stages of the innings, punching four fours and three

last few years in England and Wales, it appears that big totals will be the order of the day, so we believe we have a line-up that can put big totals on the board or chase them, as we have seen from recent matches.

“With players like the captain, Jason Holder, as well as Andre Russell in the lower middle-order, we believe we have good depth to our batting which will allow us to play the brand of cricket that will give us the best of chance of winning the World Cup.”Roach will be making his third World Cup appearance and Gabriel his first, and they will be hoping to transfer recent success in the longest version of the game into the ODI format to spearhead the attack.

“We are excited about the pace attack led by Kemar and Shannon, and we are confident that any bowling combination we put on the park is capable of providing a serious challenge to the opposition in any conditions,” said Haynes.

“It will be a long tournament and it will be important for the bowling attack to stay fit and healthy for us to remain competitive and make a strong push to win the World Cup.”

Haynes noted that offspinner Sunil Narine and emerging fast bowler Alzarri Joseph were not considered, due to finger and shoulder injuries, respectively.

SQUAD; Jason Holder (Captain), Fabian Allen, Carlos Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Sheldon Cottrell, Shannon Gabriel, Chris Gayle, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope, Evin Lewis, Ashley Nurse, Nicholas Pooran, Kemar Roach, André Russell and Oshane Thomas.

Team Management Unit Floyd Reifer (Head Coach),

Rawl Lewis (Team Operations Manager), Roddy Estwick (Assistant Coach), Corey Collymore (Assistant Coach – Fast Bowling), Rayon Griffith (Assistant Coach – Fielding), Mushtaq Ahmed (Assistant Coach – Spin Bowling), Dr. Oba Gulston (Physiotherapist), Corey Bocking (Strength & Conditioning Coach), Zephyrinus Nicholas (Massage Therapist), Steven Sylvester (Sports Psychologist), Dexter Augustus (Video Data Analyst), Philip Spooner (Media Relations Officer).

SCHEDULE OF MATCHES (All matches start at 5:30 am East Caribbean Time, except where indicated) Preliminary Round May 31: West Indies vs Pakistan – Nottingham Jun 6: Australia vs West Indies – Nottingham Jun 10: South Africa vs West Indies – Southampton Jun 14: England vs West Indies – Southampton Jun 17: West Indies vs Bangladesh – Taunton Jun 22: West Indies vs New Zealand – Manchester (8:30 am EC Time) Jun 27: West Indies vs India – Manchester Jul 1: Sri Lanka vs West Indies – Chester-le-Street Jul 4: Afghanistan vs West Indies – Leeds Semi-Finals Jul 9: 1st vs 4th – Manchester Jul 10: Reserve Day Jul 11: 2nd vs 3rd – Birmingham Jul 12: Reserve Day The Final Jul 14: Semi-final Winner 1 vs Semi-final Winner 2 – Lord’s Jul 15: Reserve Day

BCB honours Rampertab Ramnauth on ...

‘From page 31 recent performance as a stepping stone to a successful career. He urged the attentive youth to remain humble, to remember people like Leslie Solomon and Vickram Seubarran who have played major roles in his career. The Berbice Cricket Board President also spoke on the importance of education, personal discipline and faith in God. The BCB President stated that the BCB would continue to invest in every one of its

Left-hander Darren Bravo goes on the attack during his half-century on Tuesday. (Photo courtesy CWI Media) sixes in an exciting 41-ball knock as he put on 41 for the sixth wicket with Ambris and 76 for the seventh wicket with Ashley Nurse (26).

Twenty-one year-old Barbados fast bowler Chemar Holder picked up three for 50.

In reply, Barbados first class wicketkeeper Tevyn Walcott top-scored with 69 of 78 balls while Barbados captain Shamarh Brooks chimed

in with 31.

The innings was slumping at 91 for five in the 23rd over when Walcott put on 52 for the sixth wicket with Brooks and a further 68 for the eighth wicket with Chaim Holder (30).

However, left-armer Cottrell (3-41) and Gabriel (345) crippled the innings, sending the BCA XI tumbling for 234 in the final over, to lose by 92 runs.

players, while making sure that they have enough cricket to play at every level. Berbice, he stated has legendary status in the cricketing world and his administration was working hard to uphold the high standard.

Ramnauth in an invited comment stated that he was proud to be honoured by his County Board and even prouder to be an ambassador of Berbice. He acknowledged the contribution of the Port Mourant Cricket Club and

Region Four horserace meet set for May 12 at Mocha Regional Democratic Council, Region Number Four will be hosting a grand horserace meet on Sunday May 12 at Mocha, East Bank Demerara.

Seven races are carded for the day with over two millions dollars in cash and prizes at stake. The feature event is the J Class and lower race which carries a first prize of $180,000, while the runner up will pocket $90,000, third place $45,000 and fourth place $22,000.

Other events listed are L Class Open, L Class non winner, Unclassified L3, first time starters and two year old trial.

Work has been ongoing on the track to have it in top condition for the event, while other renovation was done on other sections of the facility. The event commences at 13:00hrs. Contact can be made with Ernest Elliott on 657 0071 for additional information on the event and entries.

persons like Vickram Seubarran, his coach Leslie Solomon and his parents in the development of his career.

Meanwhile, the BCB President and his Executives took the opportunity to meet with Representatives of First and Second Division Teams in Berbice to discuss some major upcoming Cricket Tournaments especially at the 50Overs First Division and Second Division 100 Balls and 40-Overs levels. Rules for all the Tournaments were agreed on including walkovers, forfeiting of the toss, uniforms, provision of snacks among others were discussed and agreed on. The President and his Executives also updated the Clubs on the current status of Berbice Cricket including sponsorship, ongoing tournaments, upcoming developmental programmes and the Award Ceremony. Foster also urged the Clubs to get themselves in order to take advantage of the opportunities being provided by his administration. Clubs, he also disclosed, would benefit from donations of cricket gears, balls, scorebooks, water pitchers and white T/Shirts.

Thursday April 25, 2019

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

GCA’s NY Tri State 50-over U-19 Semi-final DCC crush TSC, NY Tri State DCC face Americans in beat MSC tomorrow’s final at Bourda

By Sean Devers Hosts DCC, led by 9-19 from Ezekiel Wilson and an unbeaten 29 from Alphius Bookie, crushed TSC by six wickets, while Vedant Parwal and Gautham Ravindran, who shared nine wickets between them and a patient 60 from Saiteja Mukkamalla spearheaded NY Tri State to a sixwicket win at Bourda in the Semi-finals of the GCA’s NY Tri State 50-over U-19 League yesterday.

Yesterday’s result sets up what is anticipated to be a pulsating Final tomorrow from 09:30hrs at Bourda and commentary will be streamed live on SANN SPORTS Facebook.

Yesterday some welcomed overnight rain caused a two-hour delay at Bourda due to the bowler’s run-up being wet since it was left uncovered.The game was re-

duced to a 45-over contest and commenced in sultry conditions on a track on which free scoring proved a tedious task.

MSC, led by Jerimiah Scott, who made 40 from 57 balls with four fours, while Shemar Yearwood made a painstaking 27 from 73 balls, of which 48 of them were not scored off of, while Elian Whyte contributed an unbeaten 26 as MSC were bowled out for 133 in 41.5 overs.Seamer Parwal had 5-24 from his allotted nine overs and got good support from leg-spinner Ravindran who had 4-34 for NY Tri State who crawled 136-4 from 41.3 overs.

In-form opener Mukkamalla top-scored with 60 with three fours and a six from 138 balls but his innings was as exciting as watching paint dry. Skipper Sanjay

Stanley, on the back on 92 in his last match, contributed 43 from 64 balls with a six and a four, while Chatiunya Parwal, who ended the match with a four back over the head of leg-spinner Wayne Bollers, ended unbeaten on 27.

Akeem Crithlow had 2-19 in a losing cause for the Thomas Road team.

A fair sized gathering watched as MSC, who opted to bat, struggled to score fluently with Wayne McPherson (3) being bowled by Parwal at 8-1 in the 5th over before Tuen Hicks, who took 30 balls for his six runs, was also removed by Parwal at 17-1 in 8.5 overs.

A 69-run third wicket stand between Yearwood and Scott who failed to find the gaps and rotate the strike on an under-prepared track, revived the position somewhat

GMRSC’s endurance round 2 Rivals ready to compete at this Sunday’s meet Romeo Singh; Round One Unlimited class winner.

All systems are a go for Sunday’s second round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMRSC) endurance series which will be competed at the South Dakota Circuit’s outer track from 09:00hrs, according to Vicepresident of the club, Hansraj Singh.

Over 40 entrants are expected to take to the track to see who can complete the most laps during the grueling three-hour long race. Among the drivers confirming their participation includes former Champion Motilall Deodass, track record holder Rameez Mohamed and Shan Seejatan.

After round one, 2018 overall champion driver, Team Ramchand’s Wreckers’Adrian Fernandes (78 laps), narrowly defeated Sean Bacchus (77 laps) for the 1600cc and over-

all win after Bacchus’ machine gave in during the final three minutes of the two-hour long drive.

Dawolu Harper (77 laps) finished third in the 1600cc class and overall in his Kinshasa sponsored Starlet. It was a decent finish for him after being sidelined from the track for some time.

Shan Seejatan (unlimited class) blazed out the blocks and was leading the race for the first few laps but encountered the first of many problems early on and had to come off the track to diagnose the issues. Despite encountering frequent problems, Seejatan was able to complete 58 laps for a third place finish within his class but more importantly, he came agonisingly close to resetting the lap record which was set by

Rameez Mohamed in 2018’s final endurance round, last December. Seejattan ‘s best time was 1minute 17.142 seconds, while the track record is 1minute 17.086 seconds.

The unlimited class was won by Romeo Singh (72 laps) but Motilall Deodass (59 laps) surprisingly finished second ahead of Seejatan.

Mohamed Ali (33 laps) was the best driver in the 2000cc class, while Roshan Ali (20 laps) finished second followed by Rafeek Khan in third with 19 laps.In the 1500cc class, Narendra Mangar (73 laps) won, followed by Richard Hamid (70) in second place and Mark Wong (69) in third.

On social media, there is a lot of friendly banter so fans can expect to witness keen competition at South Dakota, free of cost.

Ezekiel Wilson followed up his 5-47 against MYO, had 9-19 yesterday at DCC as TSC crashed to 58 all out. but just when Yearwood had done all the hard work and seemed set for a good score, he was dismissed by Parwal at 86-3.The impressive Parwal continued his excellent day at the office when Mervin Permaul (0) drove a catch to mid at 90-4.

Bollers (1) was caught and bowled by Ravindran a run later before Parwal had his first five-wicket haul of the tournament when got rid of Scott who had pulled him for two fours as MSC slipped to 95-6 before Ravindran wrapped up the tail, despite Whyte’s cameo towards the end.

The Americans began their chase inauspiciously when Ishaan Bansal got a leading edge as he tried to flick a ball which did not turn and skied it to short third man off Tathesh Shivrattan, who

opened the bowling with his tidy off-spin to leave the score 1-3.

But Mukkamalla and Stanley added 100 runs for the second wicket before Stanley, who pulled Bollers over what’s left of the Kenny Whishart stand, was removed

by Crithlow while 11 runs later, Mukkamalla, with the asking rate increasing due to a combination of tight bowling and batting which lacked intent, ran past Bollers and was stumped to leave the score on 114-3 and although Critchlow dismissed Isaiah Jagernauth (1) a run later, the other Parwal was there at the end to see his team into the final.

At DCC, TSC were bowled out for 58 as the Thomas Road teams both lost their matches yesterday.

DCC’s off-spinner Wilson spun webs around the bats-

Jeremiah Scott who made 40 yesterday, hits Guatham Ravindran (4-34) past cover at Bourda. men to capture career best figures 9-19 before an unbeaten 29 with three fours and a six from Bookie ensured an easy six-wicket win as DCC reached 59-4.

Merissa Aguilleira retires from international cricket ESPNcricinfo - Former West Indies women captain Merissa Aguilleira has retired from international cricket.

Aguilleira, 33, was one of the senior-most players in the West Indies team, having played 112 ODIs and 95 T20Is in an international career that started in 2008. · Aguilleira, a wicketkeeper-batsman, had been captain from 2009 to 2015, including in the final of the 2013 World Cup and the semifinals of the World T20 in 2010, 2012 and 2014. She was also part of the West Indies team that won the World T20 in 2016 at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens. · As a wicketkeeper, Aguilleira was involved in 104 dismissals in ODIs, the most for West Indies and fifth overall, and 72 in T20Is. She scored six half-centuries in ODIs in a total of 1752 runs at an average of 20.61. In T20Is, she scored 768 runs at an average

of 14.49 with a best of 39 not out. · “I wish to thank all members of the team with which I worked and that worked with me to secure success in our endeavors to bring pleasure, pride, happiness and inspiration to West Indian people everywhere,” Aguilleira said in a Cricket West Indies statement. “It is an absolute honor to have been of service to West Indies cricket. My continued goal is to assist CWI to build and develop women’s cricket and help others like me to achieve their dreams.” · Aguilleira’s last international series was the T20I tour of Pakistan in February, in which she also led the side in regular captain Stafanie Taylor’s absence. Her last ODI was in September last year against South Africa, a series in which she brought off her 100th ODI dismissal.

Aguilleira, however, had been left out of the squad for the

upcoming tourof Ireland and England in May-June. · “From my own experience this cannot be the easiest of times for Merissa,” CWI’s director of cricket Jimmy Adams said. “However, her dignity and candor in communicating this decision has been exceptional. The highest of accolades are due to her for a career spanning more than 10 years which included over 100 ODIs. Far exceeding the statistics, Merissa has been the epitome of professionalism throughout her career whilst consistently upholding the highest possible standards on and off the field. “Personally I am very grateful to Merissa for all her help and assistance she gave me since I became Director of Cricket, and I have no doubt that she will continue to add value to the game in the region in the future. I wish her all the very best as she begins a new chapter in her life.”

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

Director of Sport welcomes Chess team and Swimmers from Carifta duties

Christopher Jones and the Chess team.

DOS Jones with the swimmers that arrived yesterday.

Director of Sport Christopher Jones was on hand to welcome the Chess Team who arrived home from the just concluded 8th Carifta Chess Championship in Curacao, Netherland Antilles.

In an invited comment from the National Sports Commis-

sion, Chess Coach Wendell Meusa said he was please with the players performance and more so a few of the players have improved on their ranking in the sport.

The good news for the sport is that Guyana will be hosting the 2020 tournament.

Several teams record victories as MYO Inter- Jamaat 15 overs softball last weekend

F

ans were given much to cheer about when the final preliminary round matches of the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) InterJamaat 15 overs Softball Cricket Competition was contested last weekend.

MYO vs Diamond New Scheme Home team MYO got past Diamond New Scheme by three wickets.

Diamond New Scheme Masjid were restricted for 116 in 14.2 overs, batting first.

Rickey Sargeant scored 32 (2×4, 3×6), while opener S. Mohamed and Patrick Khan supported with 18 and 17 respectively. Timor Mohamed and Safraz Esau led the attack with two wickets each.

In reply, MYO reached the required target in 12.4 overs although the visitors had managed to capture seven wickets. Majeed Khan struck four fours and three sixes in an unbeaten 36, while Esau made 27 and Mohamed 26.

New Mosque vs LBI In the second fixture, New Mosque scored 161 from their 15 overs after several batsmen played their hands. Altaf Samaroo powered his way to 33 after hitting three fours and an similar number of sixes, while earlier in the innings, Rohit Samaroo scored 27 (2×6).

In reply, LBI skipper Safraz Ally batted his team to safety with a boundary-laden 62 (5×4, 6×6), while Chris Khan contributed 27 (3×4, 1×6), Zaman Aalli 22 not out, Carl Spencer 21 and Randy Narain 19 as LBI reached their target in 10.1 overs. Rohit led New Mosque’s bowling attack with three scalps.

New Amsterdam vs

Safraz Esau Tuschen Train Station Masjid Tuschen Train Station Masjid were asked to bat and they posted 184 for 5 in their 15 overs. Number Three batsman Azad Ali led the attack with a solid innings of 95 which included two fours and 10 sixes. Opener Imtiaz Hack scored 42 (3×4, 3×6) and Daniel Chunoo 22. Bowling for New Amsterdam, Kassim Khan took two wickets in one over.

Needing to score at 12.33 runs per over, New Amsterdam were in the hunt with the opening pair of Keion De Jesus and Martin Singh putting on 83 runs in seven overs before Singh was out, bowled by Anthony Kadar for 23. De Jesus was then joined by Raymond Mohamed who then carried the score to 137 in 11 overs before De Jesus was bowled by Timothy Persaud for 69 runs (1 x 4, 5 x 6).

Mohamed was run out trying to sneak a second run for 47 (5 x4, 2 x 6). Needing to get 15 runs in the final over, New Amsterdam could only manage eight as their innings ended at 178 for the loss of three wickets.

New Amsterdam vs

Christopher Jones also thanked the players and parents who travelled with the team and expressed the Government’s praise to them for ending in 5th position out of ten countries.

Assistant Director of Sport Melissa Dow was also on hand to welcome the Carifta Swimming team and Officials.

Rising Stars claim Zeelugt SC T10 title

Keion De Jesus

The victorious Rising Stars team

R

Wahab Riaz Corneila Ida/Hague Masjid Corneila Ida/Hague Masjid were bowled out for 110 in 10 overs, batting first.

Naeem Khalil made 36 and Rafeek Mohamed 26. Bowling for New Amsterdam Wahab Riaz, Raymond Mohamed, Safraz Kadir and Wazim Akram picked up two wickets apiece.

New Amsterdam in reply made light work of the total as they achieved victory in 12.1 overs for the loss of six wickets. Leading the batting was Bashir Kellowan with 44 (7 x4, 1 x 6), Keion De Jesus 21 and (Conitnued on page 25)

ising Stars won the Zeelugt Sports Club 10over cricket competition which was contested on Sunday last on the East Bank of Essequibo.

Rising Stars defeated Combined XI by five wickets in the final. Batting first, Combined XI, who drew the bye to the final, managed 59 all out in 10 overs with Anthony Adams scoring 19.

Bowling for Rising Stars Shane Persaud picked up 4-7 from two overs and Shaquille Brisport 3-10.

In reply, Rising Stars reached their target in 8.3 overs for the loss of five wickets with Travis Cato scoring 19 and Brisport 17.

Rising Stars beat Bomb Squad in the lone semi final.

Shane Persaud

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

PAGE 29

Avinash and Aasrodeen top Romel and Robin in 9-hole Easter Sunday Golf tourney, Thousands enjoy LGC’s Easter Kite Flying and “Eggstravangaza”

A

fantastic weekend at the Lusignan Golf Club with a full schedule of activities commenced on Saturday April 20, with the Global Auto Spares Easter tournament won by Clifford Reis (67/25) (Best Net Overall), while Club President Aleem Hussain produced a great Best Gross Overall of 80.

On Sunday, the Club hosted the second keenly contested and exciting Romel & Robin 9-hole tournament with the customary great food, music and fun after the event. This tournament was played in 2 Flights, handicaps 0 – 7, and 8 -14, with prizes awarded for the best first 3 net scores in each category.In the 0-7 category winners were: Avinash Persaud - 9-time Guyana Open Male Champion – (30/1) – 1st; Vishal Dhanai (31/6) – 2nd; and ‘Skinny’ Deosarran (33/4) – 3rd. In hot pursuit of that Winners Row were ‘Naro’Jetendra Ganpat (34/5) and Mike Gayadin (34/7). In the 8 – 14 category,

winners were: Aasrodeen Shaw (33/8) – 1st; Kurt of ExxonMobil (33/14) – 2nd; and Mahindranauth Tewari (34/9) – 3rd. Close competition in this category was offered from Daniel Bates (35/14), Imtiaz Subhan (35/11), Rabindranauth Persaud (36/9), Videsh Persaud (36/14), and Roberto Mohan (36/14).

A special prize went to the Best Female Golfer of the day - Kerry of Exxon Mobil, while Avinash won the prize for the Longest Drive.And the grand weekend concluded with a bang on Easter Monday as several thousand persons descended on the course to picnic, play games, fly kites and generally relax and enjoy themselves for what turned out to be the largest crowd ever at the LGC. Dozens of kids hunted for Easter Eggs in an activity well coordinated by Nadia Kalika and Michelle Codrington of Nexgen and sponsored by club member Rudy Ramalingum of New Trend Auto, new member Mr. Adityanand Persaud,

Picture above shows those who found their eggs!

The sponsors pose with the winners (From left) Sponsor Romel Mahindra Bhagwandin, Kurt of Exxon, Vishal Dhanai, Kerry of Exxon, Deosarran, Avinash Persaud, Aasrodeen Shaw, sponsor ‘Robin’ Satrohan Tiwari, and Jetendra standing in for Mahindranauth Tewari. and club supporter Dr. Jhagru of the GPHC Emergency department.

Banks DIH was also on hand to offer many drink specials and the music and fun continued late into the night as visitors relaxed in the cool and breezy atmosphere.

Many of the first-time visitors to the course spellbound by the beauty, serenity and great lawns of the golf course with lots of trees, and ponds for fishing (in rainy season) vowed to

return and even bring their kids and spouses to play the game of golf. 9-time Guyana Open Women’s Champion, Christine Sukhram, was on hand to teach newcomers how to putt in a prize winning raffle giveaway.

President of the Club reiterates that the Club will teach the game FREE of cost to anyone willing to learn and asks that interested persons contact the club (220-5660/645-0944) or visit their Facebook page

Lusignangolfclub for more details.President of the LGC Aleem Hussain expressed his gratitude to the team of Romel & Robin with all the staff who worked tirelessly to make this weekend enjoyable for so many families. He added “we expect that several new members will come out of this Easter weekend’s activity and based on the reaction of the guests, we feel that the LGC has a great future both in the game of

golf and as a fun family destination.”On Saturday April 27th, Assuria Insurance Group of Companies will host their inaugural tournament as the LGC kicks off the second half of its season. With Banks DIH, Torginol Paints, El Dorado (DDL), Kissoons, Macorp and AMCHAM all scheduled to host major events between now and June 15th. All are expected to attract the top golfers and new players to the Club.

Guyana place 5th at CARIFTA Junior Chess C/Ship Guyana has placed 5th out of 10 countries that participated in the CARIFTA Junior Chess Championship which was held in Barbados.

Guyana sent a 14 member team which was coached Mr. Wendell Meusa, of National Sports Commission.

Eight players will be receiving new FIDE (World Chess Federation) rankings and ratings from 1st May. Guyana has also won the bid to host the 9th CARIFTA Junior Chess Championship in 2020.

Attorney at law Mr. James Bond is the current President of the Chess Federation of Guyana.The other countries to participate were Jamaica, T&T, Suriname, B’dos, Bermuda, Antigua, Aruba, USVI, Curacao and Bahamas. (NSC)

Action at CARIFTA Junior Chess C/Ship.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 30

Thursday April 25, 2019

BCB/Perry Gossai Memorial 100 Ball Tournament

D’Edward CC clinch Title after defeating Cotton Tree Die Hard CC in Final

T

he sun shone in all of its glory, the crowd was large and colourful as the Berbice Cricket Board hosted the Final of the Perry Gossai Memorial West Berbice100 Balls Cricket Tournament at the Bush Lot Cricket Ground i n B u s h L o t Vi l l a g e .

D’Edward Cricket Club spearheaded by a match winning innings of 61 defeated arch rivals Cotton Tree Die Hard Cricket Club by 31 runs to lift the coveted title as the Berbice Cricket Board completed another championship.

The match was delayed by one hour due to excess preparation moisture in the pitch. D’Edward won the toss and to the surprise of Cotton Tree Die Hard decided to take first strike.

They lost Altaf Khan, LBW to Wagar Hussain in the 3rd Over but was spearheaded to their eventual total of 155 for 5 by a brilliant 61 from Lakeraj Sookra. Sookra innings came from 41 balls and included seven sweetly struck boundaries and three giant sixes. Devendra Lalsa scored 28, Abdool Subhan 20 not out from 12 balls, while skipper Jaipaul Heeralall clipped in with 19 runs from 10 balls. Left arm orthodox spinner Pooran Persaud ended as Cotton

Tree best bowler with 2 for 23. Cotton Tree Die Hard Cricket Club was confident of overhauling the 156 target to emerge as Champion but Subhan returned with the ball to end with figures of 3 for 23 with some clever medium pace bowling.

Subhan bounced out Harrinarine for 06 and then had Pooran Persaud caught behind to leave Cotton Tree at 17 for 2 in the fourth over.

The only batsmen to offer resistance were No. 7 Marlon De Putron and No. 9 Nashad Gafoor with 32 from 13 balls and 30 from 17 balls respectively. They had Cotton Tree supporters on their feet celebrating before De Putron was brilliantly caught at deep square leg and then Gafoor was caught at cover to end the match.

The winning team, runner-up and Man of the Finals received trophies and cash prizes from the organisers.

BCB President Hilbert Foster hailed the tournament as a resounding success and was the 30th tournament successfully completed by his administration in just fourteen months, out of the 41 started. He used the opportunity to inform the large West Berbice Crowd of the remarkable progress, Berbice Cricket is

The winning Team poses with the Gossai Family and BCB Officials. benefitting from.

The BCB Boss stated that more tournaments would be held in West Berbice, while teams during 2019 would benefit from donation of cricket shirts, water pitchers and cricket balls among others. He also announced that the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club would soon be constructing an indoor practise facility which would be available to Berbice players during the rainy season. He expressed gratitude to the Gossai family for their sponsorship.

Attorney-at-Law Arud Gossai stated that the successful tournament was a fitting tribute to his dad, Perry Gossai, who he stated was a firm believer in using sport as an avenue to keep youths away from drugs. He praised both teams for being involved in a very competitive match which was played in a friendly environment.

Jaipaul Heeralall receives the winning trophy from the Gossai family.

Former NBA player arrives in Guyana today for workshop Rich Mahler

Jermaine Taylor

3rd Annual KMPA Junior Olympic Games set for this October Andy Medas-King, the founder of the King-Medas Pansy-Adonis (KMPA) Junior Olympic Games, in a release to the media, yesterday, has confirmed that athletes and sports enthusiasts can look forward to the third annual edition of the event this October.

Set for the Lusignan Community Center (LGC) ground on the East Coast of Demerara, from the third to the fifth of October, the first two days of the Junior Olympic Games will feature field events on the first two days, while the track finals will be contested on the final day.

On the seventh, the KMPA Classic Road Race will jog off at Bachelor’s Adventure and like the Junior Olympic Games, this event will feature athletes from the under-8 to Masters’ categories competing.In the release, Medas-King posited that, “We’re coming back again with another spectacular event. The KMPA Junior Olympics is the only event in the history of Guyana that set

aside a day for field events and this has seen rewards with Guyana winning a Gold medal in the Javelin event at this year’s Carifta Games, thanks to the programme and its coach.”He further posited that the KMPA goes above and beyond the road race classic and Junior games, “In March of this year, the KMPA foundation exposed several athletes and teachers from Soesdyke Secondary School to participate in the USA at the New Balance Nationals.”This year, the 110m and 400m hurdles event will be included for the second consecutive year with the intention of promoting the event locally since Guyana usually lack competitors in this event at regional competitions.The games, which are open to the differently-able, will also have keen action between schools with all 10 regions being targeted to compete. In the 1720 years category, athletes will receive a grant for whichever learning institution of their choice.

Former NBA player Jermaine Taylor (Houston Rockets) and founder of The Xperience Outreach, Rich Mahler, will arrive in Guyana today to launch the Youth Hoops Basketball Clinic & Tour.

The skill development clinic, organised by Green Mango Media in partnership with The Xperience Outreach in the United States and the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), will run from today to Saturday in Georgetown and Linden.

The training sessions

will be held at Burnham hard court on Middle and Carmichael Streets, today and Saturday from 10:30hrs, while the McKenzie High School Court, Linden, will host a session tomorrow.

All sessions are free for high school students between the ages of 11 and 19-years-old who are already playing basketball.

Taylor and Mahler will identify players with the potential to make it to the next level and explain the pathway to sports scholarships in the United States and playing in the

NBA. Participants will work on footwork, aggressiveness, mentality, and all around offensive skills, including ball handling and shooting.

This unique programme will be challenging yet fun for young boys and girls at all skill levels.

In a release to the media, Amanda Wilson from Green Mango Media noted that, “This is the first of many programmes focusing on skills development for young basketball players in Guyana, our team will be (Continued on page 25)

Kaieteur News

Thursday April 25, 2019

PAGE 31

Guyanese Aleka Persaud lands three gold medals at CARIFTA Games Guyanese swimmer Aleka Persaud turned in some outstanding performances to capture three gold medals at the C A R I F TA G a m e s swimming championship which concluded on Tuesday last in Barbados.

Persaud was the best swimmer in the girls’ 11-12 category as she won gold in the 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle and 100m butterfly.

She also copped bronze in the 50m butterfly and the 200m freestyle and placed fourth in the 200IM event.

In an invited comment,

Aleka Persaud holds the Golden Arrowhead on the podium Persaud heaped praises on the Almighty and thanked her parents, Coach and others who lent their support. She promised to continue training hard to make Guyana proud.

BCB honours Rampertab Ramnauth on outstanding performance for Guyana

BCB Treasurer Dr. Cecil Beharry honours Rampertab Ramnauth.

“You have made us proud with your outstanding performance for Guyana and has proven beyond any doubt, that the Ancient County still produces outstanding cricketers to follow in the legacy of Rohan Kanhai, Basil Butcher, Joe Solomon, Roy Fredericks and Alvin K a l l i c h a r r a n . Yo u r performance along with Isaiah Thorne, put to rest the false claim by a few that cricket in Berbice is a farce.

The entire county, the Berbice Cricket Board and your club, Port Mourant Cricket Club are very proud of you and as such, we have the greatest honour to honour you.” Those were the words of Hilbert Foster, President

of the Berbice Cricket Board.

The Berbice Cricket Board honoured Guyana Under-15 opening batsman Rampertab Ramnauth for his outstanding performance in the recent Cricket West Indies Under-15 Tournament in Antigua. The Berbice Cricket Board with support of the ten cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Ms and Mr. Vi c k r a m S e u b a r r a n , President of the Port Mourant Cricket Club presented Ramnauth with a trophy, framed certificate, cricket medal and a financial gift.

Foster urged the promising batsman to use his (Continued on page 26 )

Aleka Persaud (right) shares a moment on the podium with one of her competitors.

rt o p S Merissa Aguilleira retires from P.27 international cricket

West Indies names squad for ICCCricket World Cup 2019 England & Wales P. 26

Gayle leads batting that includes Andre Russell

Merissa Aguilleira played over a decade of international cricket. (Getty Images)

(From left) Interim head coach, Floyd Reifer, interim chairman of selectors, Robert Haynes and Director of cricket, Jimmy Adams at Wednesday’s announcement. (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

GCA’s NY Tri State 50-over U-19 Semi-final

DCC crush TSC, NY Tri State beat MSC DCC face Americans in P.27 tomorrow’s final at Bourda

Vedant Parwal had 5-24 at Bourda yesterday as NY Tri State romped to a six -wicket win over MSC yesterday.

Saitija Mukkamalla scored a carefully constructed 60 at Bourda yesterday to see NY Tri State to a 6-wicket win over MSC.

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