Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

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Saturday April 29, 2017

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 It’s not just about filling one’s pockets Aristotle once famously remarked that man was a “political” animal; but he also pointed out that those societies that chose not to educate their citizens about politics were doomed to perish. Even though he might have been using the word “political” more in line with our modern usage of “social”, the essential point that he was making is of great relevance to us today in Guyana. The extraordinary growth of governments and the impact on their citizens demand that those citizens understand both their role and that of their respective governments in the creation of the much-desired “good society”. As with most education, we have to begin with our youths. In the muchmaligned colonial era, there was a subject named “civics” that was taught to all students, but even this has disappeared. This education is even more necessary now that we are independent and hopefully engaged in the deepening of our democratic credentials. If democracy is “rule by the people” then the people ought to be knowledgeable about what it takes to rule – and the earlier the better. In the countries where democratic rule has been long entrenched, it is accepted that the promotion and sustainability of democratic values, attitudes and skills must take root in the educational institutions from where they can percolate into society and amplify their positive role. One expert in the field has declared in no uncertain terms: “Political education is a lifelong process of developing those attitudes, critical skills and modes of behaviour which will enable the individuals to act constructively to improve and change the society”. It’s not just about filling one’s pockets. The bits and pieces on governance and government that have found their way into our curriculum via “Social Studies” are in most instances not only irrelevant but actually against the grain of our present ethos. The focus on “cooperativism” that the then government attempted to foster in the seventies is now quite passé and even in those instances where the instructors may attempt to bring the materials more up-to-date, they invariably stress only the nuts and bolts of the structure of governments and possibly the rights and duties of citizens. What is actually needed are the skills, disposition and necessary knowledge that produce active democratic citizens. We ought not to be surprised that we are producing very politically apathetic children who inevitably grow up to become politically apathetic adults who simply do whatever the “leader” tells them to do, in the very antithesis of what constitutes democracy. Even in the older democracies, studies have shown that the electorate is not usually very informed about the ramifications of the policies that are trotted out in the manifestoes of the various parties that compete for political power. Years ago, the Economic and Social Research Council of America published research on young people’s views on politics, something that demonstrated that many young people thought that they did not know enough to cast their vote on polling day. These polities, however, are saved by the existence of numerous interest groups that actively lobby the government on behalf of their constituencies. Many of the groups, such as civil liberties or environmental groups, are public-interest oriented and actively promote the welfare of those who may be tuned out. The individuals who organise and deploy the resources of their organisations on behalf of the citizenry at large were produced by the system which does foster “public spiritedness”. We lack this tradition, or have it in very vestigial fashion, in Guyana because of our educational system. The various governments have been doing a credible job in trying to improve that system – but the focus has been the traditional one of “reading and writing”. While there is nothing in and of itself wrong with this focus, we can end up stultifying the minds of those youths who might have the creativity to move us out of the morass we have been stuck in for the past half-a-century, simply because we did not expose their minds to the possibilities of change that lie in their hands – simply by being members of a democratic polity. That which cannot be conceived can never be achieved. Let us take care of our political future by educating our young on what it takes to be a “democratic citizen”.

Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.

Union takes on Govt’s Director of Information, Imran Khan Dear Editor, The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) wishes to refer to an article appearing in the April 26, 2017 in the state media titled “Sugar, votes and cyclical poverty” that was authored by the Director of Public Information, Mr Imran Khan. In his article, the Director called attention to a statement by our Union’s President, Mr Komal Chand in response to the then planned European Union (EU) sugar price cut. The GAWU President quite correctly pointed to the obvious dangers that would come to bear should the EU proceed with its then plan. It was generally acknowledged that by all those who knew about sugar that the EU cut or ‘reform’, as it was styled, would present difficulties for the industry. This, as far as we know, was never shied away from or hidden. Mr Khan also goes on to seemingly put words in the GAWU’s President’s mouth saying that Mr Chand was aware that the EU changes would make the industry unsustainable. Neither our Union nor Mr Chand ever made such utterances. We find Mr Khan’s assertions baseless and without substance. The industry recognized challenges that would emerge, and crafted a plan to address the fallout. Mr

Khan may also be interested to learn that the industry’s measures were, not surprisingly, fully supported by persons who currently hold high-level posts in the said industry. Now, those same individuals tell us those ideas no longer hold water. We find their somersaulting interesting. Is it a case of he who pays the piper calls the tune? We also wish to advise Mr Khan that Diamond Estate was closed in 1985 and the L B I f a c t o r y i n 2 0 11 . However, it was not until the latter half of 2016 that LBI Estate was closed when certain operations were merged with their counterparts at Enmore. Until then the Union was made to understand by GuySuCo officials that the LBI Estate would not be closed. That ‘consolidation’, we understand, was intended to reduce costs and improve efficiencies. Yet, a few weeks after, our Union and the workers learnt on the last day of 2016 that the Administration was contemplating closing the same estate – Enmore Estate – and putting about 2,300 workers out of work. Our Union shares the Director’s view that “Sugar workers’ lives are no story of prosperity and glamour as some would make it out to be”. Indeed, the workers

perform one of the most difficult jobs in the labour market. Yet, in the face of the difficult circumstances which sugar workers have to confront, their rates-of-pay were last improved in 2014; they were denied Annual Production Incentive (API) in 2016 for the first time in over 60 years, and other longstanding conditions, rights and practices are openly disrespected by the stateowned sugar company. It is no wonder that the workers have to “ketch their hand”. We are disheartened to read Mr Khan saying that large number of workers live in an impoverished state. Indeed this is inaccurate and possibly speaks to Mr Khan’s disconnect from reality. Many sugar workers, through their incomes which were adjusted over time, have been able to live modest, humble lives. Some accomplished feats once thought impossible, such as sending their children to university. We find the Director’s assertion offensive to the hard-working workers. Or, maybe it is a case of Mr Khan having a crystal ball which advised him that workers would “…live in perpetual, punishing, cyclical poverty” should the Administration implement its dastardly plans for the industry. Mr Khan’s lack of knowledge is further exposed

when he says “there was little effort to diversify…” There were moves in this direction as evidenced by the Skeldon Co-generation Plant and the Enmore and Blairmont Packaging plants. Our Union was advised that in 2016, that the operators of the Skeldon Co-Generation plant collected no less than $9.45B from sales. In fact, the Sugar Commission of Inquiry (CoI), f o r t h e D i r e c t o r ’s information, advised that electricity production has great potential as a revenue earner for GuySuCo. Moreover, packaged sugar, the CoI said, offers the sugar corporation their highest prices. Also, the ‘junior spin doctor’ may be interested to know that just a few weeks ago a Conference to discuss the Jamaican industry concluded that ventures into electricity production, refined white sugar, among other things offered that industry good possibilities for viability. If Jamaica can do it, then what is stopping Guyana; which has flat arable land, an adequate fresh water supply, inexpensive cane transportation, know-how, sufficient labour, factory capacity, etc from doing the same or even better? The erstwhile gentleman also points to the level of Government support since (Continued on page 5)

An IDB opportunity that creative artists must make use of Dear Editor, On several occasions I have written about the possibilities which exist for the creative industries in Guyana and the rest of CARICOM. The creative industries are well suited for young entrepreneurs involved in digital design, fashion, music and craft production. The InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) is offering some assistance through a joint program with Miami Dade College borsch entrepreneurs from the region and Miami. I am not aware that this information has been shared in Guyana so I ask that you publish this as soon as possible since the deadline for submission of projects is fast approaching. These are the kinds of opportunities that Go-Invest and the Ministry of Business should be promoting locally. I hope they have been doing so and it

is me who is not up to date. Miami Dade College (MDC) in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is launching an open call to select the most innovative startups in the creative and cultural industries – what the IDB refers to as the Orange Economy – from Latin America, the Caribbean, and South Florida. The deadline to apply is Thursday, May 4, at 5:59 p.m. Demand Solutions Miami will take place at MDC’s Wolfson Campus, in downtown Miami this fall where the 12 best startups from Latin America and the Caribbean and the five most innovative startups from Greater Miami will be presented. Participating ventures need to have an innovative product or solution to improve lives in the following categories: DESIGN WITH S O C I A L

RESPONSIBILITY: urban, interior and industrial design. Graphic arts, illustration and toys. We a r a b l e t e c h n o l o g y, accessibility and cultural identity expression. Cocreation between craftsmen and designers. S U S TA I N A B L E FA S H I O N : i n t e l l i g e n t clothes, organic clothes, and accessories. M U LT I M E D I A T O S AV E T H E W O R L D : videogames, support media for digital content, virtual reality, 3D printing and interactive audiovisual content. GASTRONOMY AS AN A G E N T O F T R A N S F O R M AT I O N : recovery of ancestral and native recipes. Fusion cuisine, environmentally minded restaurants and chefs. STEREOTYPE-FREE MUSIC: cultural and

ancestral preservation. Music as an education and language preservation tool. This open call will award prizes to startups that have an innovative product or solution (not just an idea) that has already been launched, or a minimum viable product (MVP) with existing users.Participating entrepreneurs must be over 18 years of age and be either founders or cofounders of startups with a minimum of one year and maximum of three years of operation and implementation/ commercialization of their product or service. One of the founders or cofounders of each of the selected startups will have the chance to present his or her solution before a jury of industry specialists and potential investors during the Demand Solutions Miami in Oct. 2017. Wesley Kirton

Saturday April 29, 2017

Mark Benschop says SOCU’s actions have descended into a circus DEAR EDITOR, I’m somewhat concerned about the modus operandi of the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) and whether its leadership is deliberately creating confusion with regards to the agency’s investigations and subsequent charges being brought against former PPP officials who have committed serious crimes against the State. Surely, eyebrows ought to be raised, especially with the recent circus of ‘arresting’ and ‘questioning’ of individuals who are said to be recipients of Jagdeo’s sweetheart land deal, at Pradoville 2. This particular circus, has already served its political purpose, and most obviously has disappeared into oblivion. Again, I’m baffled as to why the agency would rush to charge Anil Nandlall (yes, I agree that he should have

been charged and brought before the courts for stealing of the law books) and swiftly escort him to court. Then to have SOCU agents rebuffed by the Chief Magistrate, who refused to have the culprit arraigned. If indeed they’re serious about justice, then they need to get their damn act together. Of course he was finally arraigned but not before the fiasco took place This very agency (SOCU) was established by the corrupt PPP regime in 2014 (at a cost of approximately G$65M) and its main purpose was to target political opponents, and those persons deemed as Enemies of the State. It was then, Lt. Col, Sydney James, became for obvious reasons, the favored person to head the unit. James also headed the spy agency for the Guyana Defense Force (GDF) that included spying on political opponents, cer-

tain activists, and others. And, as a reminder, James was also the main witness in the so-called treason case against Mr. and Mrs. Munroe, and Mr. Leonard Wharton. Yes, I (and I’m sure most Guyanese) would like to see these criminals in the PPP, being prosecuted and possibly jailed. However, this will never become a reality, as long as SOCU continues with the circus like manner in conducting its investigations, arrests, and subsequent charges. The circus we’re again witnessing with the Anil Nandlall issue is yet another example of the agency’s political show-boat, and with evidence pointing more to political expediency, rather than real justice. Sadly, I’m not convinced that SOCU really wants to see any of these PPP culprits go to jail. Mark A. Benschop

Why this “I surrender’ attitude about another political party? DEAR EDITOR, I wish to thank Mr. Rudolph Singh (KN: Apr 27/ 17) for responding to my proposition of a new political party to take Guyana forward in 2020. He is perfectly correct in his cynicism about the merits of another political party, and his sentiments are a common thread running through the thinking of the Guyanese public. Herein however lies our problem: we all seem content to remain arm-chair professionals when dealing with our political and economic problems. This is ‘I surrender’ attitude I submit is the unfortunate heritage of the Burnham era, when many

Guyanese resigned themselves to their fate under the Burnham administration. A cursory review of history will however show that many if not all of the developed countries passed through stages of extreme hardship and oppression to free themselves from those who would oppress and enslave them. Men arose in each of these states who challenged the status quo and pushed through the necessary legal and political reforms to transition their respective countries to where they are today. I myself happen to be the simple messenger for the new

political party. The person who is actually putting together the political party can hardly claim to be of the stature of the men just referred to. We are however just responding to the forces of oppression of both the Peoples National Congress and the Peoples Progressive Party, knowing that the gains we have made in 2015 will surely be lost if the PPP were to regain power in 2020. The stark reality is that the Coalition seems to have embarked on fulfilling our worst expectations. Guyana’s economic progress has to be viewed (Continued on page 6)

Union takes on Govt’s Director of... From page 4 the Coalition assumed the reins of power. We wonder: doesn’t he find it odd given the large sum provided to GuySuCo that sugar production this year is estimated at around 198,000 tonnes? In view of the investment, production ought to have been much higher than the 231,000 tonnes production inherited in 2015. Mr Khan may want to ask whether we have the right captain at the helm of GuySuCo. On the debt, we urge the Director to seek a disaggregation of the data as it would be most enlightening

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Kaieteur News

for him. Mr Khan then goes on to say that “…diversification must be pursued in earnest”. But Wales which was closed and hundreds pushed into an uncertain life was to be the launching pad for that diversification that the Director waxes lyrical about but which has, seemingly, suffered a stillbirth. As far as we are aware nothing is being done in this

direction. All we hear about are plans, studies and examinations which from the documentation we have seen have more holes than Swiss cheese. Mr Director, do get better acquainted and acquire a better understanding of the industry you want to write about. Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

Parking meters may cause Granger to largest country in the ticket on your windshield and lose in 2020 fifth world and does not have you have 7 or 30 days to pay. DEAR EDITOR, My letter here is concerns the parking meter situation. First of all, in USA, the GOVT has control of some things like Immigration, Tax, Minimum Wages, Medicaid and many others, and they are known as FEDERAL LAWS. No County, City or State could override any FEDERAL LAW. In Guyana we do not have FEDERAL LAWS, but we do have Central Government, which is responsible for important matters, such as Passport, VAT, Drivers licence, and other important things. Something as important as PARKING METERS should fall under CENTRAL GOVERNMENT and override CITY COUNCIL’s JURISDICTION. Some thing to look at is how many countries in this part of the world have parking meters? Trinidad is a rich oil producing country and does not have parking meters, (Guyana is 42 1/2 times bigger than Trinidad and they have 1.3 million people, yet they do not have parking meters). Venezuela is one of the world largest oil producing nations and do not have parking meters. Brazil is the

parking meters. They say the money from the meters is to maintain the roads; that is wrong. The money from motor vehicle road licenses is to build, repair and maintain the roads. In New York, there are parking meters, but only in commercial districts, (where there are businesses on the first floor of every building). There are no meters in residential areas, neither in areas known as MIX (where there are both businesses and residential homes). For example, there are meters on JAMAICAAVE. in QUEENS, but none in JAMAICA AVE. in BROOKLYN, that is because in QUEENS, the first floor of every building on JAMAICA AVE., is a business. There are no meters on JAMAICA AVE. in BROOKLYN, because some of the first floors are business and people live on the first floor of some of the buildings. The time for paying for the meters in NY is from 8am to 6 pm, except on Sundays, and on Federal and State holidays. If a traffic cop passes by and sees that you did not pay, he will leave a traffic

And if a next cop passes by and sees that you have already got a ticket, he will not issue a next ticket for the same date; only if your vehicle is still there on a another date (day) then you will get a new ticket for the new date. They do not clamp your wheel nor tow your vehicle, neither there is there a tax or (VAT) on the fine. Can anyone please say which other country charges VAT and clamps your wheel, tows your vehicle and makes you pay storage for 24 hours, then, sells your vehicle for non-payment? Mr. President, you are head of Central Government and we call upon you to order the revocation of the parking meter; you do not have to get permission from City Hall. Georgetown not only belongs to City Hall, it belongs to DEMERARA, BERBICE and ESSEQUIBO, it belongs to all Guyanese and Guyana is too poor to have parking meters; it affects businesses and is a strain on all of us. If there is one thing that will cause your Government to lose the next election, it will be the PARKING METER. Mohamed Azad

I advocate for another political formation; the needs of the as alive as the WPA, with just it is needed senting Guyanese people. The APNU as much clout in the Coalition. DEAR EDITOR, I believe that there is need for a third party in Guyana. Dr. Cheddi Jagan added the Civic to the PPP because he believed that the PPP was not serving all the people of Guyana. President Desmond Hoyte added the Reform to the PNC because he believed that the PNC was not fully representing the needs of all the Guyanese people. President David Granger formed the APNU because he believed that the PNC could not fully represent the needs of the Guyanese people. Hughes, Ramjattan, Trotman, Holder and others formed the AFC because they believed that the PNC/R (APNU) and the PPP/C were not repre-

joined with the AFC because they believed that no one of them, neither the PPP/C, could represent the needs of the Guyanese people. All Guyanese would admit that in 50 years, the only time Guyana’s Parliament functioned objectively was when the AFC formed a part of the brokerage in the Assembly. The autocratic behaviour of the PPP was highlighted and called into question. The majority block in Parliament opposed the Government, they moved a no confidence motion and it forced President Ramotar to prorogue the Parliament. Then the AFC got excited and went to bed with the APNU and they are now just

When the AFC merged with the APNU, they took a risk. The result of that risk is now a public spectacle. Therefore, what is now needed to stabilise the governance of Guyana, is a third party in the Parliament that will provide a counter balance to what these winner-take-all kinds of governments are doing. The Civic arm became lost inside the philosophy of the PPP, and they begun behaving identically like them. Former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds (my mentor and friend), now says he is a PPPite. There were never any traction from the Reform arm of the PNC, to wit, the PNC seems ashamed to even (Continued on page 6)

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President Granger given warm welcome in Region 5 DEAR EDITOR, Let me congratulate Mr. Imran Saccoor and team from the West Berbice Chamber, now rebranded the Region 5 Chamber for a job well done in hosting the second annual Region 5 Trade Fair & Expo at the Bath Community Centre Ground on April 15th and 16th, 2017. This event saw H.E. President David Granger in attendance. The President was welcomed by all. During his speech the President dealt with some very important matters. He also shed light as to the way things are going and what can be done in driving Region 5 and Guyana forward. The most amazing thing for me is that the President did not politicise his speech, but mentioned that he is President of Guyana. That he is not President of one race or one party. He went on to say that he does not only visit one group of people, but all of Guyana. The President asked for unity amongst all sectors in the region, so that it can be the driving force in the development of Guyana and Re-

gion 5 at large. H.E. President Granger called for a more collaborative effort within the RDCs, NDCs, Chambers and all others. A challenge was thrown out to these entities to sit together and develop an action plan (Regional Economic Action Plan - REAP) towards developing the region in all sectors. I must agree and I know that all present at the opening agreed with the President, when he said that for Region 5 to move forward all need to come together and work because this region is not a PPP enclave APNU, PNC or AFC region but a region for all. After the President’s speech, he took a tour of the booths and yes once again the businesses that were present (about 27) did show their appreciation at having the President visit. The visitors to the expo were over whelmed with joy, as can be seen on their faces and rushed for photo opportunities with His Excellency. That was also amazing because the people didn’t look at race or political affiliation but saw all as one. But I

must point out that those who went throughout Bath Settlement asking residents to boycott the event were unsuccessful. They even went into the ground but when they saw the crowd, they quickly left. Region five is a united region no matter what. We must remain united no matter what; our political ideas and beliefs maybe different but let’s spread love and unity amongst our people. While much has been carried in the newspapers on the President speech at this event, I want to say to H.E. President David Granger that your visit was very timely and we welcomed you with open arms and await another visit soon. We appreciate your presence and moreover the call for a united region amongst our people. I hope that the RDCs, NDCs, Chamber and all other stakeholders take up the challenge and put together the action plan that is needed in taking Region 5 forward.Thank you Mr. President for your visit. Abel Seetaram Regional Councilor Region 5

Why this “I surrender’ attitude about... From page 5 within the context of strength, vision and ability of our political parties. The PPP failed us, so we disposed of them. The Coalition has failed us, so they will surely be gotten rid of. We all know that the PPP regaining power in 2020 will be a giant step backward, so we have opted to provide Guyanese with an alternative to the PPP winning by default. The purpose of the new political party is to carry forward with the positive changes initiated in 2015 by

putting forward a vision for Guyana which we can all claim as our own, and by harnessing the necessary expertise and skills to deliver on this vision. Work still needs to be done in drafting something for public consumption, but Mr. Singh and other committed and interested Guyanese should rest assured that fixing our constitution will share equal priority with our primary concern of delivering the social and economic progress to which we all aspire and know can be

achieved. As just indicated, our Party will be initially seeking to enlist individuals committed to developing Guyana who have skill sets which respond to the various ministerial portfolios. The core values of our Party can be summed up in what will become our motto: Equality of Opportunity For All, Equal Rights and Justice, Freedom of Expression. These represent the values the Party firmly believes all Guyanese can share and hold as their own. Lance Cumberbatch

Guyana – MY HEART GRIEVES FOR ThEE DEAR EDITOR, My heart grieves for the country that I was born and raised in ; t h e c o u n t r y I love. It is so hard to sit back and look, and not be grieved at what is happening in the country that claims to be founded as a God-fearing nation. My heart grieves at the continuous, self-inflicted violence and murder that we see daily. My heart grieves for the trend of authoritarianism that is once again raising its head in Guyana? My heart grieves at the way we continue to overlook and ignore certain issues in our community, such as mental illness, incest and abuse, which negatively impact so many. My heart grieves for many of my people who have been caught up in the legal system because of draconian laws that target a specific set of citizens. My heart grieves at the manner in which drugs and guns have infiltrated our communities without exception. My heart grieves at the men, who continue to treat our women as if they are nothing and behave as if that is normal. My heart grieves for the young women who have been forced into a life of human trafficking and prostitution by manipulative and abusive pimps. My heart grieves for the

young women who are not even capable of caring for themselves and are faced with caring for a yet unborn child. My heart grieves for women “the fairer sex” who have no w b e c o m e t h e “darker sex.” M y h e a rt grieves for the increase in sexual deviancy and pedophilia. My heart grieves for the majority of youths who have shunned academics and guidance and are instead blazing a trail towards the penal system. My heart grieves at the manner in which many churches, which have always been seen as beacons of light in the midst of darkness, have fallen short of preaching their views in the pews. My heart grieves at the number of people who have been swallowed up by the existing abyss of despair and who have become casualties of hopelessness. My heart grieves at the negative manner in which certain groups of people are treated. My heart grieves at the injustices in the judicial system, and corrupt practices in law enforcement. My heart grieves for the battle that education is facing in Guyana. My heart grieves at the way families have turned their backs on one another for frivolous reasons. My heart grieves for the

mothers who instead of being helped, have their children taken away from them by the courts, only because they didn’t have the resources to fight the system. My heart grieves for the senior citizens and disabled persons, who have been targets of crime. My heart grieves at the way many of our elected officials put selfish greed and pride above doing the right thing for the constituents and the country by extension. A change is no longer gonna come; it has got to come. A time comes when we must openly speak out about injustices and wrongdoings, and whenever we see people hurting and desperately in need of assistance. Nevertheless although my heart grieves at the things that are going on in my beloved country Guyana, I remain optimistic that brighter days are ahead. I believe in God and until brighter days come, it is my fervent hope that your heart grieves just as mine does Until those brighter days come and hopefully it looms on the horizon soon, it is my fervent hope that your heart grieves as mine does, and that you will join me in seeking to find ways to make a difference in the lives of the people who need it. Yvonne Sam.

I advocate for another political formation... From page 5 mention that the Reform has unceremoniously withered on the PNC vine. Now the AFC is on life-support as it is smothered under the PNC wings. The AFC should have remained an independent p a r t y. Ye s , t h e l e a d e r s would not have become ministers as quickly, however, the PPP would have continued to self-destruct and the AFC would have

eventually become the government. The notion that Guyana does not need a third party in the Parliament is espoused only by those who are diehard PPP or PNC followers. Any independentminded, objective patriot would admit that over the last 50 years, the one-party rule in Guyana has been the single most detrimental thing to our development. Additionally, the amend-

ments needed to the Constitution would only be had if a third party forces it. Neither of the major parties will institute any change to the constitution that would limit their powers. It will take a third party in the Parliament to introduce a bill that would limit the Presidential powers and change the electoral constructs which obtain in the current Constitution. Pastor Wendell Jeffrey

Saturday April 29, 2017

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GPSU’s elections results in limbo

Gold dealer money laundering probe widens

- Candidate accuses incumbent Yarde accused of stalling process

GGMC declines to defend allegations of administra- w h i c h i s i s s u e d b y t h e deficiencies management, tion and external relations. Guyana Gold Board. The

It is being alleged that incumbent President of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) Patrick Yarde is using his influence to delay the electoral process to choose the next leader of the trade union. According to Presidential Candidate, Gregory Gaspar, he has no doubt that Yarde is playing a role in stalling the electoral process. “I have no doubt about that, because Mr DeSouza is incapable of making any decision on his own. For everything, it appears that he has to consult with Mr Yarde. Once Mr Yarde is in the building, he is in his room and they converse.” Herman DeSouza is the Elections Officer of the GPSU. Gaspar said that for yesterday, no ballots were counted. Additionally, he said that at 12:30hrs he had asked DeSouza to produce Statement of Polls (SOPs) and a List of Electors so that his team would know how many votes were cast in each box and the persons that would have voted. However, no information was provided. “When the ballots come in they are supposed to be accompanied with a document that you would have used; as people come in you would tick off their names and so on.” He said that this raises a red flag as to the transparency of the elections. Further, Gaspar said that he was told by DeSouza that there was not enough staff on hand to count the ballots. He said that it is the duty of the Elections Officer to ensure that there are enough persons to facilitate the counting of ballots. Gaspar added that he had asked DeSouza for

Incumbent GPSU President, Patrick Yarde SOPs for entities such as the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the Guyana Revenue Authority, but that information up to last evening was yet to be furnished, even though those votes were counted on Thursday. “We wanted the official Statement of Polls from him, and up to now (yesterday) nothing. We have received nothing from him.” Gaspar said that he was informed that counting of ballots will be suspended until next Wednesday. He said that such a suspension is unacceptable. When Mr Yarde was contacted on the allegations being levelled against him, he said that the accusations of delay were surprising, since the Union was made to fight a court action which sought to postpone the elections until next month. He said that he has played no part to delay the electoral process. According to Yarde, the Union would have requested leave for a number

of members to be away from their offices to work on the elections. However, this process was frustrated and the two days to process the leave had expired, resulting in a number of persons not being allowed to work with the GPSU’s elections office. Yarde said that elections at the Union have been going smoothly for 50 years. However, with the interventions by some personalities, the process this year was affected and has placed candidates and members in a position whereby there is no result to declare. He maintained that the elections come under the purview of the Elections Officer, and as a result, he could have no part to play in stalling the counting of ballots or declaration of results. He said that Mr DeSouza informed him that counting will be placed on a pause since his limited staff members was tired. “I am the leader of a trade union, so I would not encourage the abuse of labour.” When Kaieteur News contacted the elections office of the Union last evening, it was confirmed that all counting of ballots was suspended.

The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has declined to represent and defend the integrity and efficiency of the agency. The Commission has been implicated in the investigations into the affairs of embattled gold dealer Saddiqi ‘Bobby’ Rasul. The Special Organized Crime Unit is investigating whether there was collusion between the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) and Rasul. Earlier this week, General Manager of the GGB, Lisaveta Ramotar made a public statement to the effect that her agency is not to be blamed for failing to flag some of the wrongs allegedly committed by Rasul. She effectively laid the blame at the feet of GGMC. Ramotar said her duties at the Guyana Gold Board included implementing Board policy including strategic and operational planning, coordinating activities for implementation, financial management: planning, budgeting and auditing, resource allocation, human resources management, information

She said that she has no regulatory duties. Ramotar h i g h l i g h t e d the issue raised that Rasul sold gold to the GGB several times per day using his mining company indicating a wash down several times per day. Ramotar said, “I wish to assert strongly that I am absolutely innocent of any wrongdoing.” She added that the GGB is required to buy all gold presented to the o r g a n i z a t ion and noted t h a t h e r o rg a n i z a t i o n ’s mandate is not to verify production. “The organization does not verify production. The current process at the Guyana Gold Board is such that those in possession of gold can either have a production sheet which would be a sheet out of the production books issued by GGMC or they may be given a permission slip,

Finance Department of the Guyana Gold Board collects both production sheets and permission slips when the department makes payments to those selling gold. The production sheets and permission slips are uplifted daily by the GGMC, the body that regulates mining in Guyana.” Ye s t e r d a y, K a i e t e u r News contacted acting Commissioner Newell Dennison for a comment on the matter. He was asked if he would be willing to accept blame. He said, “No comment.” He was then asked if the system outlined by Ramotar is what really happens, he again responded, “No comment.” He was subsequently asked if he now sees the need to strengthen polices at his Commission, and Dennison once again said, “No comment.” The Commissioner said that he does not want to get into “the rabble-rousing.”

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Saturday April 29, 2017

Kaieteur News

Regulator raps GPL over system losses

PUC officials at the hearing

The GPL management team Regulator, Public Utility Commission (PUC), has stopped short of fining the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) but has warned that improvements will have to be made. The decision was announced yesterday by PUC in an order following a public hearing last month in which GPL officials reported on their operating standards and performance targets for 2016. As part of the licence for the state-owned company, it has to report periodically on set targets and standards. According to the PUC, in reviewing the company’s performance, it took into consideration the resources available to it during the period under review, as well as other factors that may have had an impact on the company’s

overall performance. “We find the company’s efforts creditable, but not for system losses. Our earlier comments indicate that with greater commitment, the losses could have been lower than the previous year. Given the weight that should be attached to this standard, an under par performance casts a shadow on the overall performance...” PUC said that it has taken note of what was reported by the GPL officials, and did “not think it appropriate at this time to make any award of monetary penalty on the company. Their failure to meet certain targets as adumbrated was mitigated by the fact that they were not excessive and the impact on consumers was not inordinately burdensome,” PUC said in its order.

However the PUC had a warning. “We do not, however, wish for it to be held as a precedent for the current performance of the Company, but we expect our comments herein will excite their interest and obligation owed to the public at large and get on with the business of fulfilling their mandate in providing a safe service at reasonable prices.” The order was issued by PUC Chairman, Justice (Retd) Prem Persaud and members Maurice Solomon and Dela Britton. Representing GPL at the forum at the public hearings were Renford Homer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer –Administration; Elwyn Marshall, Deputy Chief Executive Officer –Technical; Loris

Nathoo, Divisional Director – Finance and Parsram Persaud, Divisional Director –Loss Reduction. GPL reported on Customer Interruptions; Voltage Regulation; Meter Reading; Issuing of Bills; Accounts Payable; Accounts Receivable; System Losses and Average Availability. With regards to Customers Interruptions, GPL reported that the intent of this standard is to limit the average number of outages a consumer would have received during the year to no more than 75 hours. However, the standard was not met, with the average number of outages a consumer experienced in 2016 being 118 hours. The average duration of outages that a consumer would have re-

ceived during the year was no more than 90 hours. The average duration experienced by consumers during the year was 125.8 hours. Reporting on Voltage Regulations, GPL is supposed to seek to maintain in stable conditions, voltages of ± 5% of the nominal voltage and ± 10% following a system disturbance. The company has maintained from the inception that it would be difficult to monitor and report on the voltage supplied to each customer. This standard as in previous years was not measured. On meter reading, GPL said that for 2016, it was required to read 97% of maximum demand consumers and 90% of non-maximum demand consumers. The standard with respect

to both was not achieved. For non-maximum demand consumers, 94% of the bills were read; and for maximum demand consumers, 88 % of the bills were read. On the issuance of bills, the power company was required to issue maximum demand bills within seven days after the reading of the customer’s meter and within 10 days after the reading of non-maximum demand meters. GPL reported that on average maximum demand bills were issued within five days after the meters were read and non-maximum bills within 8 days after the meter was read. It meant that GPL did well in this area. With regard to its accounts payable, this standard commits GPL to settle in full (Continued on page 11)

Saturday April 29, 2017

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Kaieteur News

CARPHA confab to address gaps in human health research The 62nd Health Research Conference organised by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) which began yesterday will place attention on identifying the gaps which exist in the Caribbean regarding Human Health Research. This was conveyed Thursday evening by Assistant Secretary General, Directorate for Human and Social Development Dr. Douglas Slater at the launch of the conference held at the Umana Yana. He said that it is known that research helps to provide empirical and reliable data to implement the required action to achieve CARPHA’s mission. This mission, he said, is to provide strategic direction in the analysis, the defining and responding to public health priorities in the region in order to prevent disease, to promote health, and to respond to public health threats and emergencies. “It seems to me that research

is a most vital tool in completing this mission. Research as we all know will provide empirical and reliable data to implement the required action to achieve this very action.” Slater said that the region is endowed with rich biodiversity, flora and fauna and that there is no better place to find examples than in Guyana, but equally in some of other territories such as Suriname and Belize. He said that the biodiversity found in these countries are either precursors or possessors of various medicinal ingredients which may either be preventative or curative. “Our foreparents would have provided many ways in the form of traditional medicine. In question, do we do enough research? Do we encourage sufficient culture of research and development? And we should ask ourselves that.” Despite efforts being made, Slater said more can be done. He said that citizens across the Caribbean rely on their technocrats

to provide reliable information required to guide policies. Failing to do so can lead to undesirable and very catastrophic outcomes, said Slater. “Already we are seeing incidents of NCDs (Non Communicable Diseases) which is a very heavy economic and social burden on our region. Where I sit, we work with the policy makers but certainly, to get these actions into policies will require research that is reliable; that will inform our policy makers so that they can be confident in putting forward policies.” It was even highlighted that in some CARICOM countries, there are out-dated Human Subject Research legislation, and in some cases there are none. Delivering the feature address was Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings. She said that activities such as the CARPHA conference promote

Dem boys seh ...

Suruj old, sick and tired fuh Guyana but not fuh Curaçao Suruj decide that he not able wid de wuk no more. He seh he too old, he tired, and he get too much cuss. In de end he walk off de wuk. He seh he get enough money to live happy without all dem insult. He could tek care of all dem dawgs. He seh he done wid election. He don’t want nutten to do wid Jagdeo that scamp, Soulja Bai and Rum Jattan. He seh he want to relax pun a beach wid he wife and some rum bottle next to him. He seh he want to enjoy de remainder of ee life.

De whole of Guyana did believe him when he made those statements; even dem boys. There was a big farewell party for him. That was done secretly. Bibi and de hammer man tun up to mek sure that he gone. Dem boys wasn’t invited because dem report pun de wholesale thiefing that was going on in de same organization that he was heading. When dem boys approach him to duck and hide, he bob and weave like a boxer. At one time when dem boys brackle him on de road he seh

investigation start and he can’t comment. He did vouch fuh he people. He claim dem don’t like thief but if dem thief is fuh a good reason. Dem boys get a shock when dem hear he going to Curaçao to lead an Observer Mission into their election. He did de same thing to Haiti after leffing Guyana. De big question is whether this man really sick, old and tired, or he running from some investigation. Talk half and watch how a dawg handler can become a trickster overnight

best practices and dictate policies which contribute to the reduction in health-related issues that plague the region. She said that every level, be it national, regional and global, governments have expressed deep concerns about the impact of climate change on the environment and the human resource asset. According to the Minister, both the environment and the human resource are susceptible to the spread of infectious diseases that are predicted to occur as a result of climate change. “As a consequence we have been vigorously pursuing avenues to advance responses that will mitigate the effects of climate change and protect the environment and our people…Using a top-down formula commencing at the governmental level and fil-

tering to every aspect of our various communities, we have to pool our resources and expertise to devise and implement measures to heighten awareness on the effects of climate change.” The Health Minister said that a strategic communication strategy must be developed to ensure that meaningful messages will be disseminated with a view to improving public health knowledge on climate change-related illnesses and diseases. She added that given the urgency of finding solutions to these global issues, the CARPHA conference is timely, as it presents an opportunity for attention to be placed on scientific evidence that has already been generated, so that experts can assess the health risks of climate change and the most effective interventions to manage those risks.

Meanwhile, yesterday, CARPHA signed a Letter of Agreement (LoA) to join other CARICOM and nongovernmental agencies that represent climate sensitive sectors in the Caribbean to be the leading health partner on the Consortium of Regional Sectoral Early Warning Information Systems across Climate Timescales (EWISACTs) Coordination Partners. According to a statement circulated by CARPHA, the initiative is being spearheaded by the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH). The statement said that the agreement is historical, as it makes the Caribbean the first region, globally, to create and implement a joint commitment between climate-sensitive sectors and a climate services provider to build climate resilience.

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Saturday April 29, 2017

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Rupert Roopnaraine is Rodneyite, Granger is Burnhamite, Nagamootoo is Jaganite Don’t ever doubt President Granger’s embrace of Forbes Burnham. Granger puts his money where his mouth is. Inside his private home at D’Urban Backlands, directly opposite the Natural Cultural Centre, Granger houses three important entities dedicated to the late President – Burnham Education Scholarship Trust, Burnham Book Trust and Burnham Research Centre. When the Guyana Chronicle (of February 21, 2017) ran the story, this

is what it reported; “President David Granger declared open the Chetwynd Learning Centre aimed at the preservation and dissemination of his (Burnham) ideas which form part of his (Burnham) legacy.” Surely that is definite admiration. But the question that must be asked is: after two years as President, has Granger emulated Burnham in any way? Has he implemented any dimension of the thought process, school of ideas, ideological beliefs,

governmental policies and economic directions of Forbes Burnham? Since I asked the question, my readers are entitled to ask me what my answer is. Well, two years is a short time, and maybe Mr. Granger thinks he will have five more years after 2020, so he is not in a rush to apply Burnham to his government. But if Granger does decide to hold a second open press conference, the journalists should ask him to define Burnhamism. Vincent Alexander should define Burnhamism. Vincent, like Granger, is dedicated to the dissemination of the legacy of Burnham, so he founded and heads the Forbes Burnham Institute. Vincent was in the YSM (youth arm of the PNC) when Burnham was president, but had no strategic role in government; and had none under President Hoyte too. He currently holds the position of advisor on tertiary education to the Minister of Education, the ideological buddy of Walter Rodney, Rupert Roopnaraine. Vincent also sits on the UG Council, officially representing the

Government of Guyana. I should go to the Botanical Gardens and speak to President Burnham and ask him if he agrees with how Mr. Granger runs his government, and if he accepts the advice Vincent gives the Minister. I could tell you that UG hasn’t improved in any substantial way over the past ten years, and when Guyanese read about the nepotism in employment and lack of transparency in the administration of UG, Vincent may have a lot of explaining to do. We tend to be over-eager to see how people with great ideas when in opposition would perform when they acquire power. Well, Roopnaraine and Vincent are in power, and I have a sneaking suspicion that Burnham may be chastising Vincent, while Rodney may be ashamed of what Roopnaraine is doing. Walter, I guess, is not amused at how foolishly Roopnaraine is despoiling the face of Rodneyism. First, he put his name to an organization that was supposed to collect funds and build the D’Urban Park structure. Would Walter have approved of such a

huge waste of funds? Wouldn’t Walter see such unnecessary trappings of power as post-colonial depravity? My answer is yes. Then, Rupert, the great Rodneyite, journeyed to the National Cultural Centre to ground with teachers, parents and concerned citizens on the vexation of VAT on private school tuition. Knowing he couldn’t play even a minor role in rolling back the tax, then why did he meet with them? He suffered a walk-out. Next, Rupert trenchantly dented his Rodneyite emblem, if he ever had one in the first place (which may evoke a response from Bonita Bone). Roopnaraine displayed immense hypocrisy when he said he cannot support increased tuition at UG. He was in the Council representing the opposition when the decision was taken to implement the hike over a three-year period beginning in 2014. And it was put into effect in that very year. Obviously since then until last week, he had amnesia or convenient memory. When the second phase of the fee hike was going into effect, it was all over

Frederick Kissoon the news three weeks ago, Roopnaraine was silent. Now that it has become policy, he intoned that he does not support it, and went on to take an ignominious position that if the university does not remove it, there is nothing he can do. Finally, Moses, the man who parted the sea, and allowed (in justified ways) the PPP to drown. Moses would definitely conclude that he is a Jaganite. But what is Jaganism? Is Moses practicing Jaganism? Would Jagan have run the government the way Moses is doing it? And Moses does run the government, because he is Prime Minister, and the Cummingsburg Accord bestowed serious authority on him. Cheddi perhaps, has already spoken to Moses, asking him not to kill his (Cheddi, that is) legacy.

Saturday April 29, 2017

Crane man remanded over Berbice hijacking

Regulator raps GPL over system... From page 8 with its creditors within 26 days. GPL reported that it took on average 25 days to settle its indebtedness with its creditors. The company, however, did not do well to collect. With its accounts receivable, this standard commits GPL to a 30 days cash collection cycle. GPL reported that its average cash collection cycle was 37 days. This standard was therefore not met.

The hijacked car

A 34 year old man of Crane Old Road, West Coast Demerara yesterday appeared at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court to answer to the charge of Robbery Under Arms. Shilendra Boodram appeared before Magistrate Alex Moore and was unrepresented. Bail was refused and he was remanded to prison until May 12 for report. According to initial r e p o r t s , o n We d n e s d a y police intercepted a stolen car during a routine road block at Fort Wellington, West Coast Berbice. The owner of the car had reported filling up

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Kaieteur News

gas at the Guyoil Gas St a t i o n a t S e a w e l l Vi l lage, Corentyne around 6pm when a man inquired if he was heading to New Amsterdam, the driver of the car told the man that he was not, after which the individual then asked if he was heading to Canje and the driver answered in the affirmative. The man then boarded. During the journey the passenger whipped out a knife and ordered the driver out of the vehicle, the perpetrator made good his escape with the man’s vehicle, a Toyota Fielder wagon. A report was made and road blocks were set up. At around 9pm the car was inter-

Accused: Shilendra Boodram cepted. The suspect was driving the car when it was stopped. He was taken into police custody.

On system losses, GPL reported that it was at 28.6% of dispatched power for 2016. For the reporting period, GPL has stated that the system losses were 29.2% of dispatched power. The standard

was not met. For 2016 GPL was required to achieve an average availability of 80%. The company reported that average availability was 84%. GPL fell short here too.

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Saturday April 29, 2017

Kaieteur News

NDCs under pressure to service new housing schemes - over 200 incomplete ones across the country The planned programme to hand over hundreds of Central Housing and Planning Authority’s (CH&PA) schemes to their respective Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) is being hindered by funding challenges. A number of CH&PA’s schemes that have been developed over the years are yet to be handed over to the respective NDCs. Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan, told the Government Information Agency that this is due to the lack of financing needed to complete the

programme. “It comes down to adequate financing to complete this programme. There is an estimate that some $60 Billion is the figure that is required to complete the infrastructure,” the minister said. “It is an enormous challenge, but there is a list of areas that have been identified, and already in 2017 sufficient budgetary allocation has been approved to allow for the consolidation and completion in a number of areas.” Minister Bulkan explained that there are over 200 uncom-

pleted housing schemes. “There are actually 38 schemes that were developed in the 2011 to 2015 period, but over and beyond that, the actual number is greater than 250, and so I think this gives us an idea as to the enormity of the challenge that is faced,” the minister said. “The number of incomplete schemes also speaks to how ‘over-the-top’, the previous administration housing programme was.” “It was overly ambitious of our predecessors, that too many new areas were created without sufficient emphasis

on the adequate infrastructure in those areas before new areas were created. It is a challenge that we have inherited and that we are committed to addressing in a structured manner,” the minister said. Minister Bulkan added that only this week at the

Cabinet Sub-Committee meeting, funding was approved to complete the infrastructure work in the housing scheme at Number 76 Village in Corentyne, Berbice, to allow for its handing over to the Corriverton Town Council. The delays in handing

over the new housing schemes to the NDCs continue to impact significantly on the finances of the cashstrapped local authorities which are forced to perform services including garbage and dumping but are unable to collect rates and taxes.

Former murder accused remanded for fatal stabbing over illegal water connection Former murder accused, Shelton John Bowen was yesterday remanded to prison for the murder of Mark Ifill, who he allegedly stabbed to death during a heated row over an illegal connection from which they were collecting water. Bowen, 42, a security guard of Lot 2 Water Street, Bagotstown was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on April 25, at Water Street, Bagotstown, he murdered Ifill also called Yankee. He was remanded to prison until May 18. According to reports, the two men were involved in a heated altercation over the removal of a water pipe by Ifill from the Bowen’s yard. As a result they ended up in a fight during which the accused lashed

MURDERED: Mark Ifill

MURDER ACCUSED: Shelton John Bowen

Ifill to his head with an object. It is alleged that Bowen went away, returned with a knife, and stabbed Ifill in the region of the heart. The

injured man managed to run a short distance but collapsed. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Back in 2012, Bowen along with another man was charged with the murder of Mark Solomon, who was stabbed to death during a row at a Fisheries operation at McDoom, East Bank Demerara. He was subsequently acquitted.

Saturday April 29, 2017

Time To Pay Up: UWI Could Be in Trouble if Governments Don’t Pay Their Dues BRIDGETOWN, Barbados,– The failure of Caribbean governments to make their financial contributions to the University of the West Indies (UWI) could put the future of the regional institution in peril, Vice Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles has warned. And with more than US$100 million in payments long overdue, Sir Hilary sees a dire financial outlook ahead for the Cave Hill Campus in Barbados, St Augustine in Trinidad and Tobago and the Mona Campus in Jamaica. The UWI official delivered the grim prognosis, contained in a report prepared by a company contracted to analyze the financial health of the regional institution, yesterday at a regional news conference. “They are saying that we are going to be in significant financial difficulty unless we are able to get an annual injection of US$75 million. “That is where the rubber hits the road because at the moment the debt owing to this university by the Governments of the Caribbean is US$105 million,” Sir Hilary disclosed. Noting that the report cautioned that the university was

Vice Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles headed for trouble if it failed to collect the receivables, the UWI head expressed doubt that Governments would be in a position to deliver, based on developments from a recent meeting of the University Grants Committee with regional governments. “Unfortunately all of our budgets were not discussed because not all governments

were able to make commitments—an unfortunate development, that has never happened before,” he said. The report advised the UWI to restructure its internal operations and generate more revenue and Sir Hilary stressed that it would have to engage new instruments to raise the required capital for next five-year developmental plan.

Trinidadian nationals deported from Turkey PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – At least 12 Trinidad and Tobago nationals are due to arrive here on Friday after they were deported from Turkey, but the police say they have no indication as to whether or not they are linked to nationals travelling to the Middle East to fight for the terrorist group, ISIS. “We expect 12 persons who are reportedly deported from Turkey. They will be escorted here by Turkish agents. We do have information regarding some of the 12 persons, some of the information we have to verify. We have had limited information from the Turkish authorities,” said Assistant Commissioner of Police, Wayne Dick. He told a news conference that the 12 nationals ‘at this point” will not be arrested” since they would be considered just “12 persons who are deported from Turkey”. “We have limited information from the Turkish authorities and we are hoping when

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they get here through continued efforts and investigations, we will learn why they have been deported,” he said. Last August, a Turkish newspaper reported that nine Trinidad and Tobago nationals were detained after the police nabbed a Syrian man suspected of attempting to smuggle them into southern Turkey to join the ISIS terrorist organisation. The “Daily Sabah” reported that the police had stopped a car with a license plate from southern Mersin province when it entered south-central Adana province with 10 people, including the driver and nine Trinidad and Tobago citizens. The paper reported that after an initial probe, police found the Syrian man, Asem H, was trying to take the Trinidad and Tobago nationals to the war-torn country, where they would have been recruited by ISIS. The Syrian suspect was remanded in custody after an appearance at a local court,

while the nine Trinidad and Tobago nationals were transferred to Adana Provincial Migration Management for deportation procedures, the report said. This is not the first time that Trinidad and Tobago nationals associated with ISIS have been held by Turkish forces. In January last year, the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reported that four Trinidad and Tobago nationals were among 961 foreign members of ISIS captured by Turkish forces. The newspaper referred to a list published in December of people captured from 57 countries. In April last year, the Trinidad and Tobago government said it was now “redflagging” as potential threats to national security the families of men and women who went to Syria to fight for ISIS. An opposition legislator also claimed that as many as 400 nationals had been indoctrinated, radicalised and trained by ISIS.

St. Lucia says situation in Venezuela can’t be ignored CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – The St. Lucia government says it can’t just bury its head in the sand and ignore the ongoing political situation in Venezuela. Foreign Affairs Minister Sarah Flood-Beaubrun said the situation has raised security concerns for St. Lucia and the rest of the region. “If there is a breakdown in any country, if there is loss of life, if there is civil unrest – within the region there are implications,” FloodBeaubrun told reporters. “Our borders are open and so what happens in one country affects the other,” she said, adding “I think there is legitimate concern about the situation in Venezuela in terms of loss of life, human rights and of course the hardships that the people there endure. “Clearly, we are concerned about the democratic process being respected as well and this has implications as well for the security of our countries given what is happening,” she said, adding that it is important for dialogue to

take place to resolve the situation. “We can’t bury our heads in the sand”. Earlier this week, Venezuela said it would withdraw from the Organisation of American States (OAS) in reaction to pressure from the bloc over the government’s handling of the country’s political crisis. Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez said the government would launch a two-year process to pull out of the Washington-based hemispheric body that it has been a member of for more than 65 years. She said Caracas, “as President Nicolas Maduro has instructed…will present a letter of complaint to the OAS and we will begin a process that will take 24 months.” Rodriguez said Maduro’s administration has been forced to counter what it sees as an attempt by the OAS and conservative reg i o n a l g o vernments to topple Maduro.

The decision came a short while after envoys to the OAS approved a resolution convening a special meeting of regional foreign ministers to discuss Venezuela’s crisis. OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro has previously branded Maduro, an elected socialist, a “dictator” for stifling the opposition that has been demanding that Maduro call early elections. Flood-Beaubrun said that St. Lucia enjoys friendly relations with Venezuela and has benefitted from the South American country in the past. She told reporters that the fact that Venezuela remains a friend does not mean that St. Lucia cannot speak the truth to its friend and say that there is a problem that needs to be discussed and resolved. “It is up to us as a region to support Venezuela to find the right solution. When lives are lost, when there are issues regarding democratic processes, when people are suffering – we need to find solutions,” the minister told reporters.

OECS undertaking project to deal with poverty asessment CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States’ (OECS) Commission says it has conducted Country Needs Assessment (CDA) missions to determine eligible areas for targeted support as it prepares to implement its Country Poverty Assessments (CPAs) in the subregion. It said that the missions were carried out over a sixmonth period with funding from the Barbados-based

Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) under its Enhanced Country Poverty Assessment (CPA) project. The OECS Statistical Services Unit (SSU) is the entity responsible for supporting the nine-member states with the implementation of the enhanced CPA project, and held consultations with key national stakeholders in all OECS Member States. “Missions were scheduled in collaboration with a respective focal point in each

member state, who served as a liaison between the Commission and other key national stakeholders. Each visit involved consultations and discussions with representatives of implementing agencies, such as the national statistics offices; the Ministry with responsibility for Social Protection/Development; the Ministry of Finance; and interest groups, such as those for persons living with disabilities.”

Mason remanded for $9M casino... From page 13 on April 29, 2016 at Providence, East Bank Demerara while being in the company of others and armed with a gun, he robbed Daniel Reynolds of $9M, property of the Princess Ramada Casino. Wayne Griffith, 29 of Bagotville, West Bank Demerara; Junior Stewart, 30, of 141 Thomas Street, Kitty, Georgetown and Andre Blackman, 35, of 6 Middle Street, McDoom, East Bank Demerara, were all previously charged in connection with the Princess Ramada Casino robbery. The trio are currently out on bail. According to information, the men armed with guns entered the casino and dis-

charged several rounds. They relieved a security guard of his shotgun and ordered patrons and staffers to lie on the ground. It was reported that the accused also held a cashier at gunpoint and made off with local and foreign currency. Soon after leaving the Chief Magistrate's courtroom, Charles appeared before City Magistrate Judy Latchman where he also denied the allegation which read that on August 12, 2016 at 33 Robb Street and Orange Walk, Bourda, while armed with a gun, he robbed Juliet Kowlessar of $900,000 and a Bank of Guyana cheque, property of Sudesh Persaud. Police Prosecutor Shawn

Gonsalves objected to bail citing the seriousness of the offence and the penalty the charge attracts. The prosecutor also pointed out that a firearm was used during the commissioning of the offence. Gonsalves further told the court that the accused has pending matters in the Providence Magistrate's Court, and the accused was positively identified by the victim and admitted to police in an oral statement. Charles will make his next court appearance on May 8 where he will be appearing before the Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and May 15 he will appeared before City Magistrate Judy Latchman.

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Land to buy in: Uitvlugt, Tuschen, Zeelugt and La Pafaite Harmonie. Call: 642-1252 One female shop assistant to work in the Interior, age 2345. Contact: 668-6421

Female 18-30yrs to live in & work for single business man. Whatsapp 673-9283 VEHICLE FOR SALE SALE! SALE! 2011 ALLION $3.350M, 2011 BLUEBIRD $2.7M, 2010 RACTICS $2.5M,ALLVEHICLESFULLY LOADED&UNREGISTERED. CALL: 642-7295 Allion, Primo, Fielder Wagon, Spacio, Bluebird, 212 Carina, NZE, Honda CRV, Toyota IST, RZ & Pit-bull – Call: 650-7501 Toyota 212 New Model, Fielder Wagon 07, Spacio, all in excellent condition. Price neg. Tel: 681-6488, 657-5839.

LEARN TO DRIVE C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj BuildingCall:644-5166;622-2872;615-0964; 689-5997(affordablepackages).

Needleft hand drivers for garbage trucks. Contact: 670-7920 Cleaners @ Tuschen Scheme $13,000 per week. Call: 662-9341 Drivers & Porters to work on water truck - $30,000 per week. Call: 684-8231 We buy land in Eccles, Herstelling, Farm, La Parfaite Harmonie, Zeelugt, Tuschen. We pay best price and cash. Call: 666-2326 Farm worker (live in) age 40 & older. Call: 265-3586 We seriously pay cash for land in Eccles, Herstelling, La Parfaite Harmonie & other places. Call Ravena: 6845822/ 629-2881 Hiring 1 Maid 18-25yrs, minimum of 2 CXC subjects. Contact Arch Villas of Ulverston Corentyne at jchanglee1@hotmail.com Hiring 1 mason and 1 painter to work at Arch Villas of Ulverston Corentyne. Contact Arch Villas of Ulverston Corentyne, email: jchanglee1@hotmail.com

PEN PAL You deserve a relationship filled with love and excitement. Call Harmony Singles: 626-2629, 676-6312

One night security, one cleaner+ male to work as operator in ice factory at Meadowbank. Call: 642-9191 1 RZ Bus Driver age 50-65yrs to work & keep. Call: 2195138/689-9592 (anytime)

CAR RENTAL CAR RENTAL

Contract hire car to work @ GR Taxi. Contact Ganesh: 614-6202

One live in couple to work in Mahaicony River to take care of house and do garden work. Call: 655-9419/ 225-6571

Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Eagle’s: Re-gas -$8,000, Washing machine repairs, Gas Stove, Plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/646-0966

Saturday April 29, 2017

Kaieteur News

PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 677-7827, 6435122 ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP REATES,SPECIALOFFERS FOR THE SEASON. CALL: 690-6494

1 Accounts Clerk, preferably from E.B.D – 5 subjects CXC minimum @ gtcareers592@gmail.com 1 Car to buy on terms. Tel: 694-1258 Washbay staff living in Georgetown, excellent salary & benefits. Call: 646-8748 Labourers for wood concession -$5,000 per dayCall: 618-0487 One female vegetarian cook in the Interior. Call: 668-6421

FOR RENT

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620

1 Complete Sawmill at Yarrowkabra Linden Soesdyke Highway and 1 F66 – Clarke, Ranger Skidder. Call: 609-8041/ 644-1190

Bottom flat house @ 25 North Road & Oronoque Street, fully furnished/ air condition/ residence /business.Call: 226-7012

1 Double Stall for sale @ Bourda Market Section D. Call: 665-7896

Space for rent @ Vreed-en Hoop Junction, lessons place, church, storage bond, office, others -$20,000 monthly. Call: 603-6400

EXPERIENCED GENERAL MANAGER FOR H3 CRUSHER GOLD MINING O P E R A T I O N KNOWLEDGEABLEINTHE RELEVANT EQUIPMENT. CALL: 664-7688/601-2430

Business property to rent near Campbellville Secondary School. Call: 6276480/ 613-6815

Experienced bartenders. Call: 225-8572 between 7am-9am

Design & Make Aluminum windows, doors, stainless rails, showcases, rolling shutters, make & install automatic doors. Call: 2336818/677-5599/659-9999 One Diesel welder on trailer. Call: 699-4300/ 228-2734 1 Transported property @ Covent Garden Island E.C.D, Music Equipment: speaker, 1 complete rock, etc. Call: 2653586 Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, video games & repairs – Call: 672-2566; 265-3231 Pups for sale. Call: 216-3408/ 680-0192 1 85 DAF hauler truck with trailer, swap for 1 double axel sand truck or tanker. Tel: 6941258

LAND FOR SALE Transported land for sale size 37X270 @ Coglan Dam, Vreed-en-Hoop, W.B.D. Call: 650-5644/677-9938 Tuschen Phase 2 - $1.4M, Uitvlugt -$2.5M with fence, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.5M. Call: 642-1252 La Parfaite Harmonie - $1.4M, $1.6M, $1.2M, Tuschen Phase II -$1.3M, House & land in La Parfaite Harmonie. Can go through the bank $14M. Call: 666-2326 La Parfaite Harmonie Main Road -$1.8M, Last Bridge $1.2M, $1.4M, Herstelling $3.5M, Tuschen Phase II $1.4M. Call: 604-6724 or 6736300 Farm (East Bank) -$2.8M, Herstelling (110ftX60ft) -$5M, Uitvlugt -$2.6M. Call: 6585897/ 651-1969 TAXI SERVICE G R TA X I S E RV I C E . CALL: 219-5000; 2271982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)

3 Bedrooms upper flat, fully grilled with toilet, bath, kitchen, parking @ Block ‘8’ Mon Repos, E.C.D -$70,000 monthly. Call: 687-1050 One & two bedroom apartment available semifurnished. Call: 681-4275/ 2314432

VACANCY Experienced cook (for canteen), porters, bond clerks, snackette attendants, drivers. Apply: Survival, Lot 10 Vlissengen Rd, Kitty. Cook/Baker and Kitchen Assistant for interior location. Applicants must be experienced, for details call: 618-2020

A cleaner helper and a cosmetologist needed to work at salon. Call 658-8669 Female kitchen assistant & male assistant with driver’s license to work @ outdoor grill, weekend included. Call: 656-9313/675-2550 Salesgirls @ D.Singh & Sons. Call: 226-1316

Room to rent with light, water, bed & wardrobe, working single/couple, $28,000 monthly + security. South Ruimveldt Gardens. Call: 6230076

One female houseworker, preferably living in C/Ville or close to location, address 25 Craig Street, C/Ville.Call:223-1332

One top flat 3 bedrooms at Bagotstown. Call: 233-6266

Accounts Clerk for office in Eccles Industrial Site, knowledge of NIS, PAYE, VAT, Quickbooks call 614-4358

PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 Property Execution Sale Berbice Sub- Registry 27-Apr-2017 at 10.00 hrs. Contact 335-3344 or 616-4821 for details. Subryanville property for sale: 44 fifth Avenue., Subryanville, Georgetown $45M or best offer. Call Mortimer: 625-7669/ Shari 626-4215

MASSAGE The Gent’s Spa: Massage done by Tiffany, mobile services. Book appointment now! Call: 677-5465 ACCOMMODATION Journey Inn apartments: Fully furnished with Kitchen and AC for short term. Call: 233-2300/ 7182301695/646-3011634

TO LET 4 AC Rooms/2 large hall with 1 extra room, suitable for business/offices @ 21 Seaforth St. Campbellville, Georgetown. Call: 226-1877, 624-7436, 654-9350 Fully furnished air-condition apartments, refrigerator, television, queen size bed and microwave etc. - $65,000 monthly.Call:694-7817/668-0306 Furnished apartments April, 22 2017- April 29 2017. 318 East St, North C/Burg between Middle + New Market. Call: 653-0490/ 6414614/ 226-3199 3 Bedrooms fully furnished upper flat size 38X40ft -$160,000 monthly. Call: 644-5151 Furnished 1 bedroom apartments in Nandy Park, parking available. For further information – Call: 619-4824; 233-5560 Lodging for students and working professionals in Republic Park Area. Call:2335560 or 619-4824 for details

Saturday April 29, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Shooting at Club Privilege…

Charge against employees for deleting CCTV footage thrown out The failure of Police Corporal Gary Gordon to show up in court has resulted in a case being dismissed. Gordon was the main witness in the trial of Keisha Phillips, Ronald O’Brien and Andre Rochford, all employees of To w e r Suites/Club Privilege, The case was thrown out by City Magistrate Judy Latchman on Thursday. The trio was charged with tampering with surveillance footage of a shooting incident that

occurred at Club Privilege. It had been alleged that on January 8, at Main Street, Georgetown they willfully attempted to obstruct the course of justice, by deleting Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage depicting a shooting incident, which took place on that same day. Phillips is a General Manager; Rochford, Manager of Club Privilege and O’Brien, a technician. Police P r o s e c u t o r, Shawn Gonsalves, had told the court that Corporal Gordon went to Club Privi-

lege on the day in question and spoke with Rochford and Phillips. Gonsalves said that the police rank requested to have CCTV footage from the night club and was told by the two that they were not able to give it out. According to the prose c u t o r, R o c h f o r d a n d Phillips told Corporal Gordon that only the technician could grant them their request. The court was told by Gonsalves that the police rank left and went back to the club later in the day to

view the CCTV footage, and it was discovered that some of it had been deleted. During the trial, Corporal Gordon who is attached to the Intelligence Unit at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary, had recounted visiting the Night Club. Upon his arrival, he said he met with Corporal Eastman and Sergeant Williams, both crime scene detectives. The police witness had told the court that he and the other police ranks ex-

Several companies receive awards for promoting workplace safety Several companies yesterday received awards from the National Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH), for ensuring that their employees are working in an environment free from hazards and risks. The award ceremony was held at Herdmanston Lodge in the presence of Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, Vice-Chairperson, NACOSH, Patricia Woolford and President, Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), Coretta Mc Donald, among other invitees and company representatives. Minister Ally, according to a government statement, explained that the safety and health of all workers in every sector of Guyana is of a high priority to the government. She said the awards ceremony was created to encourage individuals and organisations to establish effective systems for managing occupational safety and health, and to inculcate a culture of prevention in the daily duties of workers and employers in order to sustain safe practices for the future. “While new challenges and emerging new risks will arise, I urge you to continuously adjust your Occupational Safety and Health

(OSH) system and standards to keep on par with current developments and new regulations and policy guidelines, so that you may better guarantee a conducive and sustainable working environment,” Minister Ally stated. The national OSH workplace award is the highest accolade given to those that lead the way in preventing accidents, and ensuring that workers are kept safe and healthy. Minister Ally reaffirmed government’s commitment towards promoting the protection of workers’ safety and health. She pointed out that as part of ongoing efforts to promote OSH, numerous activities continue including OSH walks in Regions Two, Three, Four, Six, Seven and Ten. Meanwhile, OSH Advisor at the Ministry of Social Protection, Gweneth King, in providing a brief history of the award ceremony, highlighted that it was first launched in 1996 to recognise and reward individuals, then workplaces for their contribution to the development of OSH in Guyana. She added that from 1996 to 2000, 15 individuals and five workplaces received awards. However, the award

programme was suspended at the end of 2000 pending a review. “While deliberating the best method of addressing the issue, we got a copy of the British Safety Council Award Scheme, and with some modification we were able to introduce the requisite programme. In 2003 the award resumed; there were lapses, but it was reintroduced this year again,” King stated. The various categories of the award include the Work Place, Joint Workplace Safety and Health Committee, Individual and Special Awards. The first three are for individuals and groups within the workplace, with the last for persons, NGOs and educational institutions that contribute to the development of OSH in Guyana, King said. Vi c e - C h a i r p e r s o n , NACOSH, Patricia Woolford said the objective of the awards is to encourage all companies to lift their environmental standards, and improve the conditions under which people work and serve. Woolford added that from yesterday, NACOSH is embarking on a plan of action t0 sensitise the nation on all matters of OSH, paying attention to the mining sector, construction and other areas where accidents and occur.

“Currently we are in the process of ratifying the national policy on Occupational Safety and Health, which, when approved and implemented, will see substantial advances in OSH….as we take into consideration the need for persons with disabilities and youths among others,” Woolford pointed out. GTU’s President, Coretta Mc Donald lauded the event, noting that this is the right direction to promote the health and safety of employees. Demerara Distillers Limited, Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC), Massy Gas Product Guyana Limited, National Milling Company of Guyana Incorporated and Linden Hospital Complex, were among those that benefitted from workplace awards.

plained to Rochford that they were there to conduct investigation in relation to a report of a shooting incident. Corporal Gordon said that Rochford led them to his office where he told them that he would have to seek permission to gain access to the video surveillance room. According to the witness, Rochford escorted him and the other police ranks to the Restaurant Area where they were introduced to Phillips, and again explained the reason for their visit and the urgency in acquiring the footage. Corporal Gordon said that he requested to gain access to the video surveillance room and Phillips informed him that she would like to have her technician present, since she did not possess the password to gain access to the footage.

“ S e rg e a n t Wi l l i a m s again explained the importance of gaining access to the surveillance room. The number three defendant (Phillips) stated that she will have to get on to the technician and began calling him.” Corporal Gordon continued, “She (Phillips) made contact with someone and related to us (police ranks) that the technician will be back after 4pm.” He recalled that the crime scene investigators visited the club area, but because of the lighting conditions much work was not done. He added that after placing several phone calls the general manager was given a password. Phillips of Republic Park East Bank Demerara, Rochford of Lot 28 Victoria Street, Arouca, Trinidad and Tobago and O’Brien of D’Urban Street, Werk-enRust had each been released on $700,000 bail pending trial.

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Postpartum haemorrhage: Cheap U.S. says time to act on North Korea, lifesaver ‘cuts deaths by a third’ China says not up to Beijing alone (Reuters) A cheap drug has been shown to stop women bleeding to death, in a discovery that should change practice around the world, say researchers. Every year, 100,000 women die from massive bleeding in the moments after giving birth. But an international study, in the Lancet, suggests “tranexamic acid” could cut that by a third. Postpartum haemorrhage is the biggest cause of death during pregnancy and early motherhood. “They gave me 41 bottles of blood,” said Nosheen, from Rawalpindi, in Pakistan who nearly died after the birth of her daughter. Nosheen’s life was saved only by an emergency hysterectomy. She told the BBC World Service’s Health Check programme: “Doctors told me that they will have to remove my uterus to save my life. “My health is completely destroyed, and I am very upset about it.” Tranexamic acid might

Utako Okamo have helped Nosheen. It stops blood clots breaking down to make it easier for the body to stem bleeding. It was invented by husband and wife Shosuke and Utako Okamoto in Japan in the 1960s. But they could not convince local doctors to perform a clinical trial for postpartum haemorrhage. So instead it was picked up by a pharmaceutical company and used as a treatment for heavy periods. And there the story nearly ended. Eventually, a study was coordinated by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine in a collaboration of 193 hospitals mostly

in Africa and Asia. Prof Utako Okamoto died, aged 98, just after the 20,000th and final patient was enrolled on to the trial that would finally prove she had been right. It found tranexamic acid cut deaths by a fifth overall and by 31% in those given the drug within three hours of birth. Prof Ian Roberts, one of the researchers, told the BBC: “We’ve got an important result. “We found an inexpensive drug, given in a single shot, that reduces the risk of bleeding to death, and it should play a role in reducing maternal mortality around the world.”

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson warned on Friday that failure to curb North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs could lead to ‘catastrophic consequences,’ while China and Russia rebuked Washington’s threat of military force. The showdown in a meeting of the U.N. Security Council on North Korea highlighted the diplomatic challenges of resolving tensions over Pyongyang, with the Trump administration aggressively pressing Beijing to rein in its ally, and China and Russia pushing back against Washington’s rhetoric. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told the 15-member council it was not only up to China to solve the North Korean problem. “The key to solving the nuclear issue on the peninsula does not lie in the hands of the Chinese side,” Wang told the council

in blunt remarks that Tillerson later rebuffed. The ministerial meeting of the council, chaired by Tillerson, exposed old divisions between the United States and China on how to deal with North Korea. China wants talks first and action later, while the United States wants North Korea to curtail its nuclear program before such talks start. “It is necessary to put aside the debate over who should take the first step and stop arguing who is right and who is wrong,” Wang told the council. “Now is the time to seriously consider resuming talks.” Tillerson responded: “We will not negotiate our way back to the negotiating table with North Korea, we will not reward their violations of past resolutions, we will not reward their bad behavior with talks.”

Since 2006, North Korea has been subject to U.N. sanctions aimed at impeding the development of its nuclear and missile programs. The council has strengthened sanctions following each of North Korea’s five nuclear tests. North Korea chose not to make a statement and did not take part in the meeting. In Tillerson’s first visit to the United Nations he scolded the Security Council for not fully enforcing sanctions against North Korea, saying if the body had acted, tensions over Pyongyang might not have escalated. He urged the council to act before North Korea does and called on states to sever diplomatic and financial ties with Pyongyang and suspend the flow of North Korean guest workers, as well as impose bans on North Korean imports, especially coal.

Google and Facebook duped in huge ‘scam’

(BBC) Google and Facebook have confirmed that they fell victim to an alleged $100m (£77m) scam. In March, it was reported that a Lithuanian man had been charged over an email phishing attack against “two US-based internet companies” who were not named at the time. They had allegedly been tricked into wiring more than $100m to the alleged scammer’s bank accounts. On 27 April, Fortune reported that the two victims were Facebook and Google. The man accused of being behind the scam, Evaldas Rimasauskas, 48, allegedly posed as an Asia-based manufacturer and deceived the companies from at least 2013 until 2015. “Fraudulent phishing emails were sent to employees and agents of the victim companies, which regularly

conducted multimillion-dollar transactions with [the Asian] company,” the US Department of Justice (DOJ) said in March. These emails purported to be from employees of the Asiabased firm, the DOJ alleged, and were sent from email accounts designed to look like they had come from the company, but in fact had not. The DOJ also accused Mr Rimasauskas of forging invoices, contracts and letters “that falsely appeared to have been executed and signed by executives and agents of the victim companies”. “We detected this fraud against our vendor management team and promptly alerted the authorities,” a spokeswoman for Google said in a statement. “We recouped the funds and we’re pleased this matter is resolved.” However, the firm did not

reveal how much money it had transferred and recouped. Nor did Facebook - but a spokeswoman said: “Facebook recovered the bulk of the funds shortly after the incident and has been cooperating with law enforcement in its investigation.” “Sometimes staff [at large firms] think that they are defended, that security isn’t part of their job,” said James Maude at cyber-security firm Avecto, commenting on the phishing threat facing big companies. “But people are part of the best security you can have that’s why you have to train them.” He also told the BBC that Avecto’s clients have recounted phishing attempts that used senior staff ’s hacked email accounts to convince employees that a request to wire out money was genuine.

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Saturday April 29, 2017

Saturday April 29, 2017

Smooth Sharapova cruises into Stuttgart semis (Reuters) Former world number one Maria Sharapova cruised into the Stuttgart Grand Prix semi-finals yesterday, extending her winning comeback from a doping suspension with a smooth 6-3 6-4 victory over Estonian qualifier Anett Kontaveit. Wildcard entrant Sharapova, a five-time Grand Slam winner, returned to action only this week following her 15-month drugs ban, but has looked like she never really went away in winning her three matches so far without dropping a set. Sharapova has also received wildcards for upcoming tournaments in Madrid and Rome, angering some players who say a doping offender should start from the lower-tier tournaments and earn back ranking points instead.

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Reaching the Stuttgart final could be enough to move Sharapova’s ranking back above 200 and secure her a spot in the qualifying tournament for the French Open, and if she did well in Madrid and Rome she might make the main draw for Wimbledon. “I thought I had a really good rhythm today,” Sharapova told reporters. “When you don’t know your opponent too well you try to figure them out and when I got my opportunity I took it,” she said of her dominant phase late in the first set. “It’s part of being a competitor. We work too hard to come out here and not to give it everything we have. It’s important to have that intensity.” The 21-year-old Kontaveit, who battled through the Stuttgart qualifiers into the main

draw, confirmed her fine current form early in Friday’s match, comfortably holding serve and matching Sharapova’s power from the baseline. The Estonian world number 76, fresh from her first WTA tour final earlier this month, was broken twice in a row though as Sharapova upped the pressure, attacking every serve of her opponent to win five games in a row. Sharapova broke again early in the second set and despite twice dropping her serve in a late bout of nerves she broke the Estonian again, sealing victory on the first match point as Kontaveit sent a forehand long. The U.S.-based Russian will next play the winner of the quarter-final between France’s Kristina Mladenovic and Spaniard Carla Suarez Navarro.

Saturday April 29 , 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Stick to travel or do things in conjunction with groups. Someone you work with could try to undermine you. You can find out interesting information if you get a chance to talk to people you respect.

opponents to think your way.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Don't let your partner goad you into wearing your heart on your sleeve. If you've been under stress and worrying about older members of the family, it's time to come to terms with the situation. Situations in your personal life are moving a little fast lately.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Expect to experience a sudden reversal of fortune. Visit someone who hasn't been feeling well lately. Take time to look at any outdated papers or possible investments.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Too many opportunities and too many changes going on. You may find that someone you live with may be irritable; you're best to leave them alone. Listen, but don't make any rash decisions. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You can enjoy short trips. Be careful not to get roped into uncertain joint financial deals. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Do a little investigating if there is someone at work you don't trust. Travel will be favorable and bring you the greatest rewards. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Romance can develop; however, it will most probably be short-lived. Take the time to sort out your personal papers and double-check your financial investments. You can persuade even the toughest

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Be prepared to counteract the damage that adversaries are about to create. You will be able to make changes regarding your living arrangements.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) People you live with will not be terribly happy with you regardless of what you do today. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Don't ruffle the feathers of those you care about most. You may have a problem dealing with elders. Try to keep any mood swings under control; they may result in alienation. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Travel could turn out to be more exciting than you imagined. Things are looking up. New relationships could evolve through group activities. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You will learn a great deal about yourself if you go somewhere secluded. Try not to attempt to do something unless you are fully intent on following through with the plans. Your main concern will be to spend as little as possible of your own cash in the process.

Joshua heavier than rival Klitschko

Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko go head to head during the weigh-in. (Action Images via Reuters / Andrew Couldridge Livepic) (Reuters) IBF heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua weighed in more than four kgs heavier than challenger Wladamir Klitschko ahead of their title fight in London. The undefeated British fighter weighed at just over 113 kgs and the Ukrainian just under 109 kgs at Wembley Arena yesterday. Joshua, 27, is defending

his title and bidding to add the vacant WBA and IBO crowns in front of a crowd of 90,000 at Wembley Stadium today. Klitschko, 41, signaled a V for victory sign as the pair faced off before nearly 5,000 chanting supporters. “I just have this feeling this is my night,” said Klitschko, who bookmakers rate as the underdog. “It’s a

big step for AJ. He hasn’t fought this type of quality of fighter yet. It’s going to be challenging for him - but challenging for me as well.” Joshua thanked the fans and added he is fully focused for the fight. “When you’re competing, it’s tunnel vision,” he said. “Even though there are so many beautiful people coming to watch, for now it has to be about tunnel vision.”

Field hockey busy schedule... (From page 27) expected a one-sided affair. Saints, however, seemed to have prepared themselves well for the challenge and made a herculean effort to almost see them to their first win of the competition. Marshalled by team-leader and national coach Robert Fernandes in central defence, Saints managed to keep the contest goalless at halftime. Despite the Hikers enjoying the greater share of possession and missing a few close chances, Saints produced several moments of

Mohamed grabs 5 as... (From page 29) reply. Parmanand Sukram made 68 and Dharam Ramnauth picked up 3-20 and Deosarran 2-25. The competition continues tomorrow. At Malteenoes SC Regal Masters will play Mike’s Wellman at 10:00hrs and Savage will face Amazon at 13:30hrs on pitch one. On Pitch two, HS Masters will take on Amazon at 10:00hrs, Speed XI will entertain Hustlers and at 15:30hrs Speed XI will play Unstoppable. At GNIC SC, Speed Boat will take on Pigeon XI at 09:00hrs, at 11:00hrs Speed Boat will match skills with Brickery, at 13:00 hrs Regal All Stars will face Pigeon XI and at 15:00hrs Regal will play Brickery.

good hockey to keep themselves in contention. The Hikers finally made their breakthrough, and not a moment too soon, when Garnett controlled a deflected ball in the scoring circle and released a flick at net, before

the Saints goalkeeper could react. The lone goal of the match resulted in the Pepsi Hikers completing the first round undefeated and secure the top position in the pool going into the second round.

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Saturday April 29, 2017

Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition

Champs Team 25 into quarter-finals Champion Team 25 withstood a stubborn display by Coomacka to squeeze out a narrow 1-0 win as Round of 16 action in the Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition ended on Thursday night, at the Mackenzie Market Tarmac. The event saw another large turnout as the community celebrates its a n n u a l To w n We e k

activities, the reigning title holders showed their mettle in resisting a purposeful Coomacka performance. Tevin Crawford made the difference when he slotted home the lone goal of the game in the eight minute to seal Team 25 spot in the q u a r t e r- f i n a l s s e t f o r Monday, at the Amelia’s Ward Tarmac. Among the other teams

in winners’ row were Dave and Celina All-Stars, Jermaine and Family Silver Bullets, Swag Entertainment and Amelia Ward Russians and they too advanced to the last eight. Dave and Celina AllStars proved too strong for Amazings, who they defeated 3-0 with the veteran Rawle ‘Boney’ Gittens, Keon Sears and Kennard

-joined by Dave & Celina All Stars, Russians Simon, the players on target in the third, seventh and 18th minutes respectively. Silver Bullets then mowed down Eagles by a 40 margin with Jermaine Lewis firing in a brace in the eighth and 18th minutes, while Triston Ally and Damion Williams completed

their tally with strikes in the 15th and 19th minutes respectively. Swag Entertainment was another team that registered an impressive win with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Goodfellas. Shane Luckie led the way with a pair of goals in the 15th and 16th minutes, while Colwyn Drakes added the other after two minutes of play. Amelia Ward Panthers squeezed past Main Street Panthers 1-0 with Travis Watterton’s 17th minute strike separating the teams. Yo u n g S t a r s b e a t Trainline Warriors 2-0 in a penalty shootout after regulation time finished 1-1. Tshehedi Whitehead was on target in the seventh minute for Young Stars, while Kellon Adams equalised twelve minutes later for Trainline Warriors. Cherokee Park edged Future Stars 1-0 through a Phillip Austin goal in the 17th minute, while High Rollers derailed Dream Chasers pursuit of a place in the next round following a 10 win. Kendolph Lewis 14th minute goal made the difference. The winning team will take away $400,000 and the championship trophy along with the opportunity to play in the National Playoffs. Second, third and fourth placed finishers receive

$150,000, $75,000 and $50,000 respectively. Meanwhile, the night’s full results are seen below: Game-1 Trainline Warriors-1 vs Young Stars-1 Young Stars won 2-0 on penalty kicks Young Stars Scorer Tshehedi Whitehead-7th Trainline Scorer Kellon Adams-19th Game-2 Team 25-1 vs Coomacka-0 Tevin Crawford-8th Game-3 Cherokee Park-1 vs Future Stars-0 Phillip Austin-17th Game-4 Dave and Celina AllStars-3 vs Amazings-0 Rawle Gittens-3rd Keon Sears-7th Kennard Simon-18th Game-5 Main Street Panthers-0 vs Amelia Ward Russians-1 Travis Watterton-17th Game-6 High Rollers-1 vs Dream Chasers-0 Kendolph Lewis-14th Game-7 Jermaine and Family Silver Bullets-4 vs Eagles-0 Jermaine Lewis-eighth and 18th Triston Ally-15th Damion Williams-19th Game-8 Swag Entertainment-3 vs Good Fellas-0 Shane Luckie-15th and 16th Colwyn Drakes-2nd

Farm and Uprising record victories Farm and Uprising recorded victories when the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association T20 tournament commenced recently at Farm. Farm beat Silver Bullet by 11 runs. Farm were bowled out for 101 in 19.5 overs, batting first. John Paton made 26 and Peter Persaud 15. Raymond Micthell had 4 - 1 9 a n d Vi c k r a m Lokenauth 2-16. In reply Silver Bullet were sent packing for 90 in 19.2 overs. Trevor Gomes made 21 and Harrynandan Persaud 18. Paton had 2-13 and Arif Peerbacchus 2-14.

Rome Athletics beat Ruimveldt. Uprising beat Combined United by one wicket. Combined United batted first and scored 168 all out in 20 overs. P. Edwards stroked 58 not out while J. Ramroop got 26; Steve Jowahir took 2-17 and Dinesh Rampersaud 2-16. In response Uprising got to 170-9 in 19.1 overs. S. Sankar slammed 52 and Elton John 40. R. Reid had 3-28 and Ramroop 2-25. Herstelling overcame Sandpipers and Rome Athletics beat Ruimveldt in other fixtures. The competition continues tomorrow.

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Saturday April 29, 2017

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Dave Variety and Party Plus Field hockey busy on board for Kingston softball schedule continues

Samuel Kingston accepts the trophy from a representative of Dave Variety and Party Plus. Dave Variety and Party Plus of Sixth and Albert Streets have thrown their support behind the Samuel Kingston fund raising 10/10 softball tournament which is slated to commence on May

10 in Georgetown. The entity presented one of the trophies to Kingston who thanked them for their support. Interested teams can contact Kingston on 619

5103. The competition is being played to help raise funds for Kingston who has to undergo a second surgery on his left eye after he was hit during a game in a recent match.

Imam Bacchus SC, Gunners, Devonshire Castle, Walton Hall through to semis Imam Bacchus, Gunners, Devonshire Castle and Walton Hall have booked their places in the semi finals of the Motielall, Jailall and Praboo Memorial T20 tournament after recording quarterfinal victories on Sunday last in North Essequibo. Host Imam Bacchus SC beat Young Stars by 149 runs. Batting first, the host amassed 222-6 off 20 overs with Navindra Persaud scoring 58 (9×4), Parmesh Parsotam 47(7×4) and an unbeaten 46 (4×4, 4×6) from player Wayne Osborne. Young Stars, in reply, were dismissed for 73 in 17 overs with Suraj Lall making 25 (5×4). Medium pacer Ganesh Mangal took 2-11 from 4 overs as four batsmen perished via run-out route. In the other match at the same venue, Gunners defeated Charity by 76 runs. Gunners batted first after winning the toss and made 193-6 from 20 overs. Damion Wharton made 38 (4×4) and Haiman Beharry

Wayne Osbourne 36 (3×4, 2×6) not out. Charity SC were bowled out for 117 in the 20th over. Hassan Rahim got 28 (3×4) and Vickram Kanhai 20. Medium pacer Damion Wharton capped a good allround performance by claiming 3-19 from 3 overs and Zavier McDonald had 214 from 4 overs. In the other games played at the Walton Hall ground, Devonshire Castle defeated Police Sports Club

by 10-wickets. The Lawmen perished for a miserly 55 from 17 overs, batting first. Devonshire Castle in return hit off the required runs in 3.2 overs, Navin Horil struck an unbeaten 44 containing 7×4 and 2×6. In the second game, hosts Walton Hall recorded a 73-run win against Young Achievers. Batting first, Walton Hall rattled up 220-5 from their 20 overs with former inter-county players Navin Bahadur scoring 51, Vishwanauth Lall 41 and Suresh Persaud 40. In reply Young Achievers made 176. Narendra Madholall made 77 (10×4, 3×6). Lall returned with the ball to capture 3-20 from 4 overs of off-spin. Meanwhile the semifinals will be played this weekend with Imam Bacchus SC facing Walton Hall while Gunners playing Devonshire Castle. Both matches are scheduled for the Anna Regina Community Centre ground.

The Old Fort Shooting Stars pulled off their first win of the Woodpecker Products Women’s First Division Hockey League with a 2-1 victory over new-comers the GCC Spartans. While the match seemed fairly even in the opening minutes, a hard hit into the Spartans defensive area met the stick of Sulika Treurniet and deflected to find goalkeeper Jessica Mittleholtzer going the wrong way. Both Mittleholtzer for Spartans and Sarafina Phillips for Old Fort were solid in goal for their respective teams throughout the match. In her quest to equalize, the Spartans midfielder Princessa Wilkie, who had pushed higher into attack, bullied her way into the Old Fort circle and sent her shot past Phillips into the goal on the right post. Wilkie’s goal with ten minutes remaining breathed new life into the match as both teams pressed forward relentlessly in search of the winning goal. Old Fort received a penalty corner just as time expired, leaving the Spartans to make one more defensive

Woodpecker Products Women’s First Division Hockey League play. Minsodia Culpepper’s hard push, however, was too much for the Spartans and gave jubilant Old Fort victory with no time remaining on the clock. In the second match of the week, sisters Sonia Jardine and Kerensa Fernandes put all doubts to rest as to which was the top side in the competition. Coming off a 10-0 thrashing of Old Fort and a 70 win over the Spartans, the Pizza Hut GCC ladies inflicted a 6-0 beating on the Woodpecker Hikers with all goals being scored by the sisters. After a scoreless ten minutes of play, Jardine decided she had enough and sent a powerful blast into the Hikers goal after receiving a pass from Fernandes on the right. Less than one minute later, Jardine scored her second high into the net when she pounced on a Hikers defensive fumble, eliminated the sweeper and unleashed her shot. Jardine would score once

more before the half and remained the only goal scorer of the match in the 36th minute when she scored her fourth goal and the first of the second half. Sister Kerensa Fernandes at that point chose to get in the act as she received a cross from Gabriella Xavier on the left wing to slam in her first goal and her team’s fifth in the 37th minute. Fernandes blasted home the final goal of the match less than one minute later to wrap up another solid showing by the Pizza Hut ladies. Farfan & Mendes Men’s First Division Hockey League Sixteen year old Tivesard Garnett playing for Pepsi Hikers scored his first goal on debut in the Farfan & Mendes Men’s First Division League and he could not have chosen a more opportune time to shine. With the pre-match favourites, unbeaten Pepsi Hikers facing cellar-dwellers Saints HC in their first round clash, one would have (Continued on page 25)

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Saturday April 29, 2017

East Coast Masters, Savage and All Star victorious East Coast Masters, Savage and All Star registered victories when the Cheddi Jagan Memorial 10/10 softball tournament was contested recently at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara. Playing in the over 40 division, East Coast Masters beat Airy Hall of Essequibo Coast by 42 runs. East Coast Masters batted first and m a n a g e d 11 2 - 5 w i t h Ramesh Persaud scoring 45

The victorious Savage team.

while extras contributed 20. S. Sankar had 2-20. Airy Hall were limited to 70-6 in reply. Richmond Patterson made 25 and Yugesh Persaud 19; L. Singh took 3-19 and Vivikant Ramsaywack 2-19. In the over 40 category, Savage overcame Airy Hall by three wickets. Airy Hall took first strike and scored 112-7. Fizul Mohamed made 67 and A. Rambarran and V. Ramsaywack had 2-6 and 219 respectively.

Savage responded with 115-7 in 9.1 overs. Ramo Malone stroked 70 not out as P. Khan had 2-10. In the open segment, Success lost to All Stars by one wicket. Success scored 92-8, batting first. Chris Dindyal got 30 and Lakeram Etwaroo 25. Shafraz Ali had 3-16. All Stars made 93-7 in 9.4 overs in reply. Devanand Samaroo got 36 and Alli 15. Jerry Singh and Pooran John had two wickets each.

Corporate support streams in for Blairmont Floodlight Cup - Reload

All Roads lead to Cumberland as Candy Shop adds support to YWCC Mash Cup Evans, Beharry to be honoured For the first time, popular hang out spot, Candy Shop located in front of New Amsterdam Municipality Market provided sponsorship for The Young Warriors Cricket Club fund raising Mash Cup slated for Sunday at the picturesque Cumberland Cricket Ground, East Canje, Berbice. There is excitement in the air as the public is looking forward to this signature event from which proceeds run the clubs cricket programmes, donations are also made to religious and educational organisations as part of the c l u b ’s p o l i c y t o w a r d s community development. Eight teams namely: Adelphi Pathfinders, Betsy Ground Triple Stars, Goed Bananen Land, Rose Hall CC, Reliance Young and the Restless, Tucber, Electra Academy and the host will compete in the action packed five overs aside cricket competition for prize monies of over $100,000. Albion

Masters, made up mostly of players who won the recently concluded Inter County Masters tournament, will compete against Floodlights of Georgetown in a 15 overs aside feature game. There will be added attractions for the kids and the entire family including live musical entertainment and a well stocked bar. At the presentation ceremony which took place r e c e n t l y, Ti t o S a n c h o commended the organisers for including for the first time, Candy Shop Tucker Park. He added that he is happy to be part of this event. In response, President of the club Rafeek Kassim expressed gratitude to the sponsor and promised that the event will be successful and provide entertainment for the entire family. He further stated that YWCC will continue to provide opportunities for the young boys and girls in the East Canje area. Kassim related that the club is proud of its first test

cricketer Shimron Hetmyer and will work hard to maintain its short but rich history. He stated that the success of the club over the years is the result of hard work of some of its executives and players and made special mention of Hubern Evans and Anil Beharry. He informed that when the club was resuscitated, Evans and Beharry played important roles is transforming the ground from a pasture to its current position, boasting two large concrete sight screens, two pavilions, top quality covers, concrete scoreboard and a billiards table like outfield. “Evans and Beharry were instrumental in the progress of the club and players such as H etmy er, D amo d ar Daesrath, Richard Ramdeem, Gajanand Singh, Kwesi Maltay, Linden Austin, Balram Samaroo and many others”, the President continued. He said that those two gentlemen will be honored during the event.

Blairmont Cricket Club president Shabeer Baksh (black shirt) receiving sponsorship from Arshad Rasool (left) and Travor Harripersaud. Corporate support has been streaming in for the third annual Blairmont Floodlight Cup Reload, set to take place this Sunday at the Blairmont Community Centre ground. Recently, club officials were on hand to receive sponsorship from Hand-inHand Insurance Company, Sign Arts, Arshad Business Enterprise, Baksh Travel S e r v i c e a n d B i g B ’s Restaurant. President of the Blairmont Cricket Club, Shabeer Baksh, expressed gratitude to the business community for collaborating with the club for the annual competition and said the input by these entities will go a long way in ensuring the aims and objectives of the one day activity are met. He also used the opportunity to encourage

families to come out and witness a day of clean fun, as apart from the on-field cricket action, there will be numerous activities beyond the boundary to keep the family entertained. Ten top teams will be competing in the main eventthe 10/10 cricket competition. The teams likely to participate are Blairmont Cricket Club Blazers, DeEdward Super Kings, Cotton Tree Die Hard, Albion Sports Club, Rose Hall Youth and Sports Club, Cold Fusion, Young And the Restless, Bush Lot, E n t e r p r i s e a n d Yo u n g Warriors. In 2016, Blairmont Cricket Club’s West Side Titans were winners and Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club were runnersup. In 2015, Cotton Tree Die Hard emerged champions,

while Blairmont Cricket Club came in as runners-up. The tournament will have nine exciting matches while there will also will be an Over-40 exhibition game. There will be live commentary by Radio commentator Inderjeet P e r s a u d , w h i l e Ta s s a drumming and air horn giveaways will add to the atmosphere. There will also be a domino competition, which starts at 12:30 hrs and includes 15 teams and a three-a-side volleyball tournament which is geared at encouraging individuals to participate in physical activity. Other attractions on the day will include Bar-B-Q Chicken sale, bouncy castle, ice cream giveaways and cartoon characters walk around.

Letter to the Sports Editor

Kudos to Colors Boutique

Rafeek Kassim receives items from Tito Sancho in the presence of Bradford Peterkin.

Dear Editor, I must congratulate the management of Colours Boutique for so promptly responding to the call to assist our young athletes. Eleven-year-old Kaysan Ninvalle is now the recipient of a two-year sponsorship package with

this company. The recognition shown to this Junior Sportsman o f t h e Ye a r i s commendable and the package will go a long win in assisting him to the top of the mountain. I would like to see other corporate entities

get in line so that not only young Ninvalle but other sportsmen and women can reach their full potential. The longest journey begins with the first step. Congratulations Colours. Yours sincerely, Robert Trim

Saturday April 29, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Johnson joins Tamar Lambert as only Captains with 3 Regional FC titles in a row By Sean Devers At 31, Leon Johnson is the most successful Guyana Captain, winning three of the 10 First-Class titles won by this Country in Regional cricket, bettering great Guyanese leaders like Clive Lloyd, Roger Harper and Carl Hooper who have two each. Lloyd (1975 & ’83), Harper (1987 & 1993), Hooper (1998 shared with L/Wards & 2002) and Johnson (2015, 2016 & 2017) are Guyana’s most successful leaders at the Regional First-Class level. Rohan Kanhai led Guyana to its first FirstClass title in 1973 when the team won the Shell Shield and is the only other Guyanese to win a title and Guyana’s three titles in a row is only bettered by Barbados and Jamaica. Barbados dominated Regional Cricket in the

1970s and 80s and has the most First-Class titles (21) but none since Courtney Browne led them the 2003 and 2004 Carib Beer titles after Sir Garfield Sobers led Barbados to the first two titles since sponsored Regional First-Class officially began in the 1966. When Johnson won championship honours for Guyana last year he became the first Guyanese leader to win back-to-back titles and now joins Jamaica Tamar Lambert as the only person to win a hat-trick of titles. Lambert, however has won five of Jamaica’s 15 titles from 2009 to 2013 making him the most successful captain in the West Indies but never had the opportunity to play for the West Indies. Chris Gayle won the 2008 Carib Beer Cup to give Jamaica the record of six consecutive titles. After Lloyd won the

1975 Shell Shield, under David Holford’s Captaincy Barbados shared the 1976 title with Trinidad & Tobago and won the next four after that in successive years. Holder’s three titles during that five-year Championship winning streak leading the team in 1977 and 1979 with Vanburn Holder being the Skipper in 1978, while off-spinner Albert Padmore was Captain in 1980. Sir Vivian Richards, who never lost a series, had only two First-Class titles as Captain winning his first title in 1981 for the Combined Islands and his second in the 1990 Red Stripe Cup to give the Leeward Islands its first title. Jonhson’s Jaguars went for 18 matches without a loss since Barbados beat them in 2014, an unbeaten streak that was broken by the Leewards in the second round of this season last November. They

Mohamed grabs 5 as Regal Masters triumph

Fazleem Mohamed

Jagdesh Persaud

Fazleem Mohamed grabbed five wickets as Regal Masters recorded a two-wicket victory over Ariel Masters when the Regal Sports Softball tournament continued on Sunday last. Batting first at GNIC SC, Ariel Masters made 133 all out off their allocation of 20 overs with Rudy Rodrigues scoring 37 and Richard Persaud 21. Mohamed finished with 5-23 and David Harper 2-29. Regal Masters responded with 134-8 in 18.3 overs. Opener Lyndon Lyght carried his bat to remain unbeaten on 39 while Fazal Khayume made 26 and Afzal Haniff 21. Roy Persaud had 3-21 and Ron Ramnauth 2-9.

Success Masters conceded defeat against Ariel Masters at the said venue. Ariel Masters were 97-2 off 12 overs taking first knock when the Success Masters players refused to continue the game after one of the umpires made a decision in favour of the batting team. At Malteenoes SC, Savage overcame Amazon by five wickets. Amazon took first strike and scored 151-9 in 20 overs. Rudolph Pereira made 38 while K. Persaud got 29; Z. Hussain took 2-18 and Unnis Yusuf 230. Savage responded with 152-5 in 18 overs. Ramo Malone struck 53 and Nadir Baksh 47. Pereira had 2-63. HS Masters beat Mike’s

Ramo Malone Wellman by three runs. HS Masters batted first and got to 139 all out in 20 overs. Clyde Hoyte made 31; Raymond Harper had 2-10, Jagdesh Persaud had 2-24 and Wayne Jones 2-28. Mike’s Wellman responded with 136-8. Persaud slammed 86 and Greg De Franca 24. Hanoman Singh claimed 3-13 and Ronald Persaud snared 3-19. In the open category, Success got the better of Good Hope by 50 runs. Led by an unbeaten 142 not out from Dindyal Lakhan, Success posted 218-4 off their allotted 15 overs. Devendra Deosarran contributed 35. Good Hope were restricted to 168-7 in (Continued on page 25)

Leon Johnson leads his team off the after Guyana won its third consecutive title at Providence. (Sean Devers photo) rebounded from that loss in St Kitts and carried their unbeaten streak to seven before it was broken in the last game in the 2017 season again by the Leewards who finished last this year despite being the only team to beat Guyana in 28 matches. Johnson was rewarded

for becoming the only Guyanese to win consecutive First-Class titles and for being the tournament’s leading runs scorer last season by copping the Sportsman of the year Award. In 2005 when he led the Guyana U-19s to

championship honors in Grenada and became the only Guyanese to score a double century in Regional U-19 cricket he was named junior Sportsman of the year. Johnson is the only person to be named both Junior and Senior Sportsman of the year in their career.

Systems being put in place for Rising Sun Turf Club race meet on May 7 Systems are being put in place for the May 7 Jumbo Jet Stables in association with the Rising Sun Turf Club one day horserace meet starting at 12:30pm. The venue is the Rising Sun Turf Club and an action packed event is anticipated. Seven races are carded for the day with most of the top stables represented and leading horses involved. The main attraction is for D3

and Lower horses for a first prize of $1M and trophy over 1400m. Other events on the programme are for G1 and lower and E3 non earners for six month over 1400m for a $400,000 purse. The H3 and lower and 4years non earners for 2017 will gallop over 1100m with the winner claiming $350,000. The 3 year Guyana Bred horses will

battle for $250,000 over 1400m, the J2 and lower winner will cash in on a $200,000 purse, I Maiden $175,000 and the Cow horse $100,000, with all over 1400m. Contact can be made with Fazal on 657-7010, Chandu 624-9063 or 6089063 and or Nikita Ross 6624668 for details on entry or other information on the event.

Efforts being made to constitute new horseracing authority Concerned personnel of the horseracing fraternity have planned to make a concerted effort to constitute a new executive for the defunct Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA) with a scheduled meeting to at least start the process, fixed for the Rising Sun Turf Club on Sunday at 10:30am. The GHRA has not been functioning for a short bit now and some issues regarding the sport have not been dealt with as some horse owners and other persons cry foul when some decisions that are made go against them at the various racetracks. The owners, jockeys and

all associated have been pleading to have the body constituted and functioning so many problems faced could be dealt with at the executive level in a fair and transparent way according to the rules of the organisation. The organisers of S u n d a y ’s m e e t i n g a r e hopeful and have everyintent, to see things done differently than in the past. They will be pushing to have records computerized, photo finish cameras installed at all race tracks and would like to have racehorses micro chipped to aid the keeping of better records and help eliminate some disputes. They intend to have

insurance schemes for all jockeys so they can access the best medical care in the event of accident. The organisers of the meeting would want a concerted effort from all involved to have legislation governing the sport passed in parliament so international horses can compete in Guyana and local horses can do likewise overseas. All owners, trainers, jockeys, grooms and any person associated and or interested in horseracing are asked to be at the Rising Sun Turf Club on Sunday at 10:30am to chart the way forward and make positive decisions for the sports future.

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Saturday April 29, 2017

RHTY&SC, Anamayah Memorial honour Retired Teachers, Law Enforcement Officers – passes over 200 programmes/activities for 2017 The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS marked its 200th programmes/activity for 2017 when it hosted the Anamayah Memorial Hospital Tribute to Retired Teachers and Tribute to Law Enforcement Officers Programmes last Sunday at the ST. Francis Community Developers Conference Hall. A total of six retired outstanding teachers with a combined total of 203 years of service were honoured along with seven law enforcement officers attached to the ‘B’ Division of the Guyana Police Force. T h e C l u b Secretary/CEO, Hilbert Foster in brief remarks stated that the main objectives of the two programmes are to honour outstanding teachers who have retired after serving the educational

The Six Retired teachers pose with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. sector with pride, passion and the highest standard and to recognise the sterling contribution of law enforcement officers who

work beyond the call of duty to make Guyana safer for its citizens. The six retired teachers have a combined 210 years

Local Martial Arts fraternity loses Grandmaster Stephen Monasingh

of service and over that period of time assisted to nurture the minds of countless youths. Foster hailed the educators as silent heroes who have served their country well and he urged them to share their vast experience with the younger generation of teachers. Special words of appreciation were also extended to the seven law enforcement Officers who played a major role in reducing crime and making the roads safer. Foster urged the Officers to always be professionals in everything they do and to be honest and disciplined if they want to move up the ladder in the Guyana Police Force. The Club Secretary/CEO committed the RHTY&SC to continue hosting both programmes in the future

and expressed gratitude to the Management and Staff of Anamayah Memorial Hospital, especially Dr. Ryan Anamayah for the sponsorship. Each of the Awardees received a trophy, medal, framed certificate and a collection of gifts. Those honoured under the Tribute to Retired Teachers programme were Keshwar Ramnauth of J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, Glorene Patterson of Port Mourant Primary, Armin Dean of Rose Hall Town Primary, Coreen Kum-Rose of Cropper Primary, Marilyn Benjamin of Central Corentyne Secondary and Gail Hooper of Port Mourant Secondary School. The Awardees were chosen by the Region 6 Ministry of Education. The seven Police

Officers selected by the ‘B’ Division of the Guyana Police Force are Sgt 20697 Philbert Wilburg, Detective Corporal 20258 Albert Mendonca, Constable 20638 Leo Crandon, Constable 21179 Colvin Melville, Sgt 19676 Azad Alli, Woman Detective Corporal Deborah Leitch and Detective Corporal 21091 Enamuel Davidson. Special words of congratulation were reserved for Davidson, who single handily stopped the planned execution of Berbice businessman. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo congratulated the Awardees on their service to Guyana, while he praised the RHTY&SC, MS for taking the time out to acknowledge the contribution of those who played a part in the development of Guyana.

Parika Salem, Hydronie to clash in EBE CC Dwayne Stephens Auto Sales T20 final Grandmaster Dr. Stephen Monasingh being honoured by the Brazilian Military. The local Martial Arts and sporting fraternity has suffered a big loss following the passing of 10th Dan Grandmaster, Professor, Dr. Stephen Michael Monasingh on Thursday after a period of illness. He was 67 years of age. Grandmaster Monasingh has been involved in Martial Arts for over 50 years. He was also awarded a Doctorate in Oriental Medicine and recognised internationally for his work. Professor Monasingh who has been involved in various martial arts styles over the years, achieved 10th Dan Grandmaster status for the

style he developed, Shin Kaido, which is the best workable techniques of several styles that he would have done, which includes Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, Jujitsu and Aikido. Dr. Monasingh was Guyana’s representative on the International Karate Organisation based in Japan During the 1960’s and 80’s. He led the organisation in Guyana for several years a n d w a s a l s o Vi c e Chairman of the South American chapter. He was recognised both home and mainly abroad for his immense contributions and knowledge of martial

arts and oriental medicine. A soft spoken individual, Professor Monasingh was able to train his students successfully, getting the best out of them by learning their strengths and weaknesses and helping them to become better. He led the Guyana Taekwondo Association for several years. He also worked at the Brazilian Embassy as the Aide to the Military Attaché for a number of years and was fluent in several languages. Kaieteur Sport extends heartfelt condolences to his children and grandchildren and other relatives at this time of their bereavement.

Parika Salem and Hydronie will clash in the final of the East Bank Essequibo Cricket Committee Dwayne Stephens Auto Sales T20 tournament tomorrow at Vergenoegen ground. Both teams recorded victories in their respective semi final games played on Sunday last at Zeelugt. Parika Salem defeated arch rivals Hyde Park by three wickets. Batting first, Hyde Park made 155-7 with Shaied Mohamed scoring 29 and Travis Drakes 27. Extras contributed 35 as Dexter George took 3-33. Parika Salem responded with 1577. Kemol Savory hit 40, while Jason Heyliger made 38, George 30 and Royan Fredericks 24. Drakes had 3-

Jason Heyliger

Kemol Savory

Hydronie beat Vergenoegen by seven wickets. Vergenoegen took first strike and were sent packing for 91 in 19 overs. Eon Daniels made 18 and Lennox Andrews 16. Azaad Azeez claimed 3-16 and Ajit Seodat 3-17.

Hydronie replied with 94-3 in 18 overs. Vickram Kissoon got 27 and Amrit Rai 17. Dwayne Stephens took 2-19. Hyde Park and Vergenoegen will clash in the third place play off at 09:30hrs followed by the final at 13:30hrs.

27.

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NAMILCO ‘Thunderbolt Flour Power’ U17 and Pele Alumni ‘Frank Watson’ U15

GFF and RMA’s ink MOU’s; U15 equipment handed over Describing the occasion as a very significant one and day in Guyana, President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde yesterday inked the Memorandum of Agreements (MoU) with the Presidents of its Regional Member Association (RMA) for two Intra Association leagues in the Boardroom of the governing body. Forde, in remarks prior to the signing of the documents, stated that it was a necessary step in establishing the level of cooperation that is needed between all the stakeholders involved in the administration of the sport. MoU’s were inked for the already in train, G F F / N A M I L C O ‘Thunderbolt Flour Power’ National U-17 IntraAssociation Tournament and the GFF/Pele Alumni ‘Frank Watson’ National U-15 Intra-Association Tournament. Reflecting on the first r o u n d o f t h e G F F / N A M I L C O ‘Thunderbolt Flour Power’ National U-17 IntraAssociation tourney, Forde

said that it afforded the GFF the chance to evaluate where the GFF was as a family with regards to its capacity to execute some of its programmes. ”What we observed during the months of the NAMILCO tournament is that many of our colleagues within the membership have some fundamental challenges in terms of their ability to execute. The challenges range from capacity to simple cases of being more responsible and more accountable for the material that were issued to them and ensuring that the conduct of the league was consistent with was expected from Ma’s.” As a result of that evaluation, the GFF Forde said, pieced together the MoU’s which outlines the responsibilities of both the GFF and RMA’s. ”So I think that this will give us some platform that we can move forward on; because ultimately we are accountable to the sponsors and we cannot have the sponsors coming onboard giving us their support financially and otherwise

GFF President Wayne Forde hands over a set of uniforms to Bartica FA Executive Member Ms. Carmel Williams as other RMA Presidents also display equipment. From right Keith Ojeer (Berbice FA), Ms. Maxime Stewart (Essequibi FA) and Franklin Wilson (East Bank FA). and not be able to execute these tournaments.” Forde further underscored the importance of RMA’s working towards ensuring that everything be done to protect the partnerships that are being established for the many leagues. He commended the Pele Alumini for their bold investment at the Under-15 level and is hopeful that the

execution of the leagues would be worthy of their investment. ”We are looking forward to exciting tournaments both at the U15 and U17 levels. The GFF is ready to offer whatever support our members would need in the execution of these tournaments, so good luck to everyone.” It was disclosed that the GFF executive members

would be visiting venues from time to time to get a firsthand experience of the execution as well as get a glimpse of the talented players. The leagues Forde posited, would provide the best opportunity for the scouting of players which forms part of the new National Development Strategy which is being implemented by the

Technical department of the GFF. Meanwhile, RMA’s were presented with equipment compliments of the Pele Alumini for the GFF/Pele Alumni ‘Frank Watson’ National U-15 IntraAssociation Tournament. Among the items handed over were balls, goal nets, bibs and the funding for the execution of the league.

FIFA suspends audit official, opens probe into Caribbean head (Reuters) A member of FIFA’s audit and compliance committee was handed a provisional 90-day ban from football yesterday, a day after pleading guilty in a U.S court to taking bribes in exchange for using his influence within the global soccer body. In a further sign of continued problems in FIFA, the organisation’s ethics committee said it had opened formal proceedings against the president of the Caribbean Football Union, Gordon Derrick, in an unrelated case. FIFA’s ethics committee said in a statement it had suspended Richard Lai, who is also president of the Guam Football Association (GFA), at the request of its chief investigator Cornely Borbely. Lai, 55, pleaded guilty on Thursday to wire fraud conspiracy charges before U.S. District Judge Pamela Chen in Brooklyn, according to U.S. prosecutors who said he had taken close to $1 million in bribes. As part of the plea,

Lai, a U.S. citizen, has agreed to pay $1.1 million, prosecutors said. FIFA president Gianni Infantino, in his own statement, thanked the U.S. prosecutors for their efforts in battling corruption in the sport and said his federation would continue to cooperate with authorities. Lai was not among several dozen officials and sports marketing agencies, mainly from Latin America, who were indicted in the United States in 2015 in the biggest crisis in FIFA’s history. President of the GFA since 2001, Lai sits on the committee responsible for checking FIFA’s financial accounting. He was also suspended yesterday by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), where he is a member of the marketing committee. The Pacific island of Guam is a U.S. territory, though its football association is a member of the AFC. As a full FIFA member, it holds a vote in

FIFA presidential elections. Announcing Lai’s guilty plea, the U.S. department of justice said his “breach of trust was particularly significant given his position as a member of the FIFA Audit and Compliance committee, which must play an important and independent role if corruption within FIFA is to be eliminated.” Infantino, elected in February 2016 to rebuild FIFA, thanked the U.S.

prosecutors “for their continued efforts to stamp out corruption from football, which is also the top priority of the new leadership of FIFA”. “The new FIFA has been fully supportive of the U.S. authorities’ investigations, and will continue to be,” he said. “I am happy to confirm once again, that FIFA will provide whatever assistance is needed by the U.S. and any other authorities around

the world.” FIFA’s ethics panel said in a statement that its investigators had recommended a ban of at least four years and a fine of at least 15,000 Swiss francs ($15,120) for Derrick, who is president of the Caribbean Football Union and general secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association. The probe centres on alleged conflicts of interest, offering and accepting gifts

and other benefits, mismanagement of funds, abuse of position and disloyalty, it said. Several Caribbean officials have been caught up in the U.S investigation including former p r e s i d e n t s o f C O N C A C A F, t h e confederation for North and Central American and the Caribbean, Jack Warner of Trinidad and Tobago and Jeffrey Webb of the Cayman Islands.

t r o Sp Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition

Champs Team 25 into quarter-finals -joined by Dave & Celina All Stars, Russians

Part of the action in the clash between Dave & Celina All Stars and Amazings on Thursday night at the Mackenzie Market Tarmac.

Field hockey busy schedule continues Woodpecker Products Women’s First Division Hockey League

Marzana Fiedtkou (with ball) controls the ball in attack during their encounter against Woodpecker Hikers. Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210