Kaieteur News
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Friday April 07, 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 POPE FRANCIS EDICT ON CRIME Guyana is being run over by criminals which is being politicized by the opposition to gain political points. However, in the hope of finding lasting solutions to the problem, the opposition should rise above its pettiness and work with the government. This is of paramount importance as there is need for a united front on the issue of combating crime, especially with the assistance of the public to provide information on the criminals to the police. There should be a permanent mechanism or framework to ensure collaboration between the government and the opposition since crime is not the only matter for which cooperation is required. The government has unequivocally said that the need to respond to those involved in crime is intact, vigorous and high on the agenda. The fact that crime, especially murders, is continuing it means that the authority is nowhere near to finding a solution to the problem, in spite of the billions of dollars that are being spent on national security. The crime situation created fear and panic in the hearts of the citizens. Even children were innocently targeted as this madness grew. The brazen criminal gangs until recently had some of the most sophisticated weapons at their disposal. The current situation is now relaxed but the police should not pull back lest the nation will fall deeper into the abyss of despair and hopelessness . Everyone must therefore press the leaders to leave no stone unturned in the search for measures to combat crime. And it has not escaped notice that crime has decline.All the bells and whistles will ring hollow if our politicians do not cooperate and further reduce crime in a substantial way. It matters not who initiated the cooperation. It is called patriotism. A national non-partisan crusade is needed to fight crime. The truth is that crime cannot be solved by throwing money at it. The efficient allocation of resources towards the creation of jobs to alleviate poverty among the poor is a basic requirement to solving crime. It is a more realistic commitment to the national interest where the concerns for reducing crime is to be translated into measures to deal with the underlying reasons that have caused it to escalate in the first place. Expounding on what spawns poverty and the anti-social spill-over into criminal activities by the poor, Pope Francis condemned the trickle-down economic theory and a financial system whereby money rules rather than serve. He asserted that it should be the other way around. In examining the correlation between poverty and violence, he concluded that until exclusion and inequality in society and between peoples are reversed, it will be impossible to eliminate violence. According to the Pope, the poor and the poorer peoples are accused of violence, yet without equal opportunities the different forms of aggression and conflict will find fertile terrain for growth and eventually explode. He opined that when a society, whether local, national or global is willing to leave a part of itself on the fringes, no political programmes or resources spent on law enforcement or surveillance systems can indefinitely guarantee tranquility. He also said that the unevenly spread of resources across the regions and among those living in extreme poverty remains high. However, dealing with crime ought not to be a partisan affair. Crime will only reduce with less poverty and the dispensing of fairness. The authority should heed the Pope’s edit on crime.
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.
Opposition wants answers from British High Commission Dear Editor, At the Parliamentary Opposition press conference held on March 29, 2017, Mr. Adam Harris, Editor of the Kaieteur News, challenged me on my statement that the British High Commission had denied the presence of any staff of the BHC at the now famous “wine party” at the Oasis on Wednesday March 7, 2017. I enclose for Mr. Harris’s attention the official statement from the British High Commission of March 10, 2017 in which the High Commissioner H.E. Greg Quinn stated “I also understand the former Attorney General Hon. Anil Nandlall
believes that High Commission staff were at the Oasis Cafe on Wednesday, however that was not the case”. With regards to whether Dr. Sittlington was involved in operational matters of S.O.C.U. which was also denied by the High Commissioner in the same statement, it is time that the government and the High Commissioner explain why this “advisor” accompanied S.O.C.U on raids of local businessmen and entered their premises, accompanied the Head of S.O.CU to Freedom House four days before the former Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Luncheon, was arrested as well as being present in
the compound of the Office of the Leader of the Opposition when the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. B. Jagdeo, was arrested. I reiterate my statement at the press conference that the High Commissioner owes an apology for misleading the public, and further, that the government and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office should state whether the “imbedding” of Dr. Sittlington into the operations of S.O.C.U. was with their knowledge and approval. Gail Teixeira, M.P. Parliamentary Opposition Chief Whip
PPP has an agenda that is about destroying Guyana’s future Dear Editor, It is with great concern that I am penning this letter because of what I have heard and read about during the years when the PPP were in opposition before 1992 elections. During my campaign in 2015, I was asked by a businessman of Rosignol to sit and listen to what will transpire after the elections or when the APNU+AFC gained power. Let me state that the businessman said to me he has no political connections or affiliation to any party. The businessman took over 40 minutes to explain in a nutshell the hardships and the economic downfall of the country when the PNC was in power. He told me the reasons as to why the hardship and economic downfall happened. Moreover, he swore that after 2015 elections if the PPP failed to gain power the same will repeat as in those years. He said the country will be plunged into a state of slow economic development and investors will be asked to s t a y a w a y. He also mentioned that the opposition will use every tool available to ensure that the period, 1960-1987 return. He further went on to state that in those years the PPP crippled the country because of racism and the economic power house was generated from mainly one race or sector of people in Guyana. He mentioned the bottom house meetings that the PPP would host and ask the sugar workers and rice farmers to stop working and planting. Sugar workers was used in those days to sabotage the sugar industry, calling unwanted strikes,
burning of canfields, business men to stop investing, etc. He said that the PPP used the race card and its people as the tool in making this country an underdeveloped country and soon it will happen. Well, I can now say that the businessman was well on track and knows his country and its politicians. Indeed history will bring the tears of those years back to the elders’ memory and make us as young ones learn. So that we do not repeat such a great mistake again. It is very evident today that the PPP has an agenda to ensure that Guyana once again becomes a poor nation. But this time they will fail and fail tremendously. Over the past few months or year we saw the opposition making some very wild statements about Guyana’s economy. But let me state that indeed the economy is slower now than when the PPP was in power. That is because the DEA is now active in Guyana under t h e A P N U + A F C government and lots of the monies that used to circulate in the drug trade that pushed the economy up, is no more. Look at the amount of drugs (cocaine) being found on a weekly basis since this government took office. Look at some of the mega businesses that have closed their doors since the DEA came and let’s look at the reason(s) why they had to stop doing business? The PPP is not interested in Guyana’s development, but in the oil money. They wanted to build more Pradovilles, beach\pool houses, etc. They wanted to see Guyana down on the ground in the economic
sector and that there must not be any development. That is why the leader of the opposition and his cabals are running and jumping around lying to the Guyanese people. They are going to the sugar workers and telling them that sugar has a future and that this government doesn’t want sugar to stay. Well, the sugar workers must understand that sugar is in crisis all over the world not here alone. PPP and GAWU are asking the workers to strike every week so that they cannot make a day’s pay. I am also made to understand that some of the management at the various estates that are affiliated to the PPP are sabotaging the entire process of those estates. Only last week I was told that some 450 bags of sugar that were stolen have been found in a well known compound at Blairmont. Sugar workers must understand that the PPP is using them to gain political clout to make the industry worse. If the PPP is so interested in the welfare of the sugar workers, why is it that they took away several benefits, misplaced NIS contributions and closed estates? The opposition is telling the rice farmers to stop planting. But the opposition is not saying, who will feed the family of the rice farmers? Who will take care of their needs and livelihoods? I do believe that every rice farmer is making a profit when the crop ends and if anyone says to me they are not then they are lying. The PPP should look at the rice industry worldwide and then talk to the farmers. Don’t talk because you want to stagger the rice industry or
should I say cripple it. The PPP and its leaders including its GS over the past months are going around telling people of the hardship of this country. But they are not telling the people where they normally socialize especially in the fancy restaurants, bars, etc. The GS and his party leaders are not telling the people about the number of children they have living and studying overseas that are being funded by them (PPP leaders). The PPP is going to the people who are said to be the economic powerhouses of this land, telling them that things are getting real bad and they need to close their businesses down, stop working and stop planting rice, stop making a better living and let’s tear Guyana’s future apart. They (PPP) feel by doing this, it will help them return to power. But what they are actually doing is telling those people who they truly believe are their supporters to wreck the country for our (PPP cabals) political gains. They (PPP) are using you (sugar workers, businessmen, rice farmers, youths and all others) to ensure that their personal agendas are met. They want the people to suffer and cry to have a meal. The PPP is back to its agenda of decades ago and the businessman from Rosignol is correct in saying that the PPP will fool their supporters, who are said to be the economic powerhouses of the land, in order to bring Guyana down once again. They will use the working class to better themselves and gain political points. (Continued on page 6)
Friday April 07, 2017
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Kaieteur News
TIME FOR A PUBLIC, TELEVISED DEBATE ON CORRUPTION DEAR EDITOR, The litany of accusations of corruption that continues to be hurled at the former PPP/ C administration and even public servants who were merely doing technical jobs have not ceased and has assumed new momentum as the coalition government attempts to deflect attention away from the downward spiral to which they have taken the economy. The persecution, on nebulous grounds, of PPP/C leadership and affiliates has assumed new dimensions with the misuse of SOCU and
the formation of SARU. The initial forays against members of the private sector by these two bodies were merely obfuscatory actions that are intended to divert attention from their pursuit of their real prey, the man they hate and fear the most, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and hence the Pradoville 2 debacle. After having assumed administrative office in a devastated nation, the aggressiveness with which Dr. Cheddi Jagan implemented policies for the elimination of poverty is welldocumented, nationally and
globally. Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s role in this continuum of achievement is well-admired, well-respected, even by some coalition supporters; and, I believe, envied by some who aspire to his reputation and capabilities for exemplary leadership. Dr. Jagdeo, in my view, can best be described as the architect of modern Guyana. The ministers in the PPP/ C administration worked indefatigably, relentlessly, trying to reverse the severe downslide in every sector. Slowly, inexorably, the country was fulfilling its
promise of a transformed and incrementally-appreciating developmental growth trajectory. Dr. Jagdeo was subsequently instrumental in creating synergies for access to loans, even without collateral, to build homes; and he had engineered the reduction of interest rates to manageable proportions. Additionally, as more lands were opened up for housing projects, the scope of qualifying homeownership aspirants widened, with Guyanese of all colours, class, creed, race, religion - with no differences
The PPP’s opportunistic quest of guilt transference DEAR EDITOR, I received an email through the network that I am linked to from the ‘Office of the Leader of the Opposition - Press Release March 24, 2017’ I read its details and pondered on why this exchange had taken on the nature of a crusade to destroy the Attorney General, on a pretext of court banter that could be considered contentious, but lacked incriminating substance to merit the attention. My legal curiosity was satiated on April 2, with the experienced clarity and authority of the former Chief Magistrate and my friend, Juliet Holder Allen, whose letter in the Kaieteur News enabled me to then fully understood the contention, as well as I understood what this contention meant to the Opposition PPP’s creed. First, AG Basil Williams has done nothing remotely heinous that amounts to a reproach to the dictates of his office or career. But that is not what is happening here, for years I’ve paid keen attention to the creed of the PPP, there is a reality that’s evident in the study of the culture of the psychopath that deals with the transference of guilt, where his/her victim is held
responsible for their own destruction. This is not outlandish as I will refer to substantial evidence that leads to the concept of ‘Transference of guilt’ in this case Political guilt as a consistent practice in the creed of the PPP. Anil Nandlall was taped making references to using lethal armed confederates against Glenn Lall. Anil Nandlall was the Attorney General then. When ‘he’ was ‘circumstantially’ and his body guard was more prominently linked to the murder of Courtney Crum-Ewing, were these, the very armed confederates referred to? Now the transference of that guilt is directed without substance against the current Attorney General and Anil Nandlall is the flag bearing poster boy, coincidence? A generation, in fact my generation were raised hearing the mantra of rigged elections, of how bad Forbes Burnham was and how corrupt the PNC was. The guilt that it was the PPP who launched a Racial Civil war for power in 1961 was even attempted to be thrown on the CIA. This transference of enormous Guilt that divided this country ethnically, which is kept alive by the PPP to-
day, should have been in the forefront of our modern history, but it was not. They got away with it mounting a dogma of victimhood. Imagine Leslie Ramsammy, this once Minister of Health who was allegedly embroiled with Roger Khan’s instrument of alleged murder [Roger Khan called and ordered him to make sure Ronald Waddell didn’t live, according to testimony in court which Ramsammy has denied] is now assuming a persona as a normal citizen, writing critical letters to the papers. Fervently again, cultivating the ‘Transference of guilt’ which is intended to once again convey victimhood to replace guilt, shame and judgement. The minds in APNU-AFC tasked with monitoring the psychological warfare of the PPP and its financial allies must place a behavioural time line in perspective. Another example is the cartoon in Stabroek 26, March, depicting a ‘Boat gone ah falls’ scene with President Granger at the fall in the boat of the economy, with Bharrat Jagdeo and President Granger is asking Jagdeo for help, Fact: 1 -wasn’t it in the time of Jagdeo that we became a
In defence of Swami Aksharananda DEAR EDITOR, I write in response to Frederick Kissoon’s column, “Aksharananda gets a taste of his own medicine” of April 4, 2017 in the Kaieteur News. The Hindus for Selfless Service (HSS) denounces the attack on Swami Aksharananda in the above mentioned column. As is his habit, he questions the credentials of the revered Swami” and calls him a “priest”. This is not a matter of Kissoon’s ignorance but a continued calculated, transparent attempt to engage in an ad hominem attack, since he implies that Swamiji is somehow inflating his qualifications. If Swamiji had elected to be a “priest”, and
the proper term is “pandit” or even more technically “purohit”, he would have been addressed as Dr. Odai Pal Singh. Swamiji’s doctorate was earned at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, one of the premier universities in the US. This was what he renounced in addition to the desire for material possessions, progeny and fame, when he was initiated into the order of Sanyasis (Monks) in India. Since his return to Guyana as a Swami in 1994, no one can point a finger at him for not observing the strictures of the Dasnami Order of Sanyasis founded by AdiShankaracharya more than a millennia ago.
On the allegations that Swamiji engaged in race baiting interventions in the press, the one instance he chose to illustrate his claim exposes Kissoon’s mendacity. Where is the “racist” content of Swamiji calling for an “ethnic impact statement” on the dismissals when the APNU Manifesto promises such statements? On Swamiji’s denunciation of the hate-filled fulminations of Pastor Anderson in Central High School he offered concrete examples. Could Kissoon point to such examples in any of Swamiji’s writing? Khandai Seenanan Hindus for Selfless Service
Highly Indebted NationHIPIC?, 2 -wasn’t this the most violent period in our modern post Independence history? 3 -Wasn’t this the period when the coffers of the NIS and CLICO were looted for private investment? 4 And 82 % of our forest lands given to a foreign investor, with no plans to employ Guyanese. 5 -With a PPP promise of when re-elected to sell our water ways, and 6concede to Venezuela part of our country because of an intellectual deficit to legally defend it? I go to number 7 -Isn’t it true that to accommodate an inflow of drug money the nation had to be criminalised to facilitate a philosophy that anything was applicable as long as who needed to be paid was paid, a philosophy that still haunts us? 8 -Isn’t it true that many Guyanese survived on remittances, which have dried up because of a global recession and most of the countries that our populations earned from are in financial trouble themselves? Of the first seven which one would the APNU-AFC require the opposition to help them with, according to this cartoon? Understand though, that I am not part of the Government, but as a citizen I have a strong perspective viewed from solid ground, and concede much work still has to be done by this Government. The Attorney General and the accusations wheeled against him fit into a scheme of things, to which the former chief Magistrate has placed in its correct legal format, stripping the propaganda. Nice work sister, Madam Holder, was it in my power you would be the next head of GECOM. Barrington Braithwaite
being recognized or considered, benefitting from the PPP/C’s home-ownership initiative. The Housing Ministry’s records will attest to this fact. Former President Jagdeo and PPP/C ministers also aspired to own homes in this land of their birth, for which they had worked hard and sacrificed much; and they are prepared to show the world how they afforded to acquire lots at the disputed Sparendaam Housing Project and build their own homes. We are refuting the accusations of all the antiPPP/C protagonists that the Sparendaam lands were acquired under questionable circumstances that gave a distinctive advantage to then government functionaries. Those who have authored articles and have spoken to the press appears to have unwittingly or not ignored the fact that the Sparendaam housing development was consistent with the policies and practices of the PPP/C administration, as it relates to housing development countrywide. Secondly, the price paid for the Pradoville 2 lands were comparable to the market generated prices from a publically advertised
competitive bidding process for the sale of lands to private developers in close proximity right on the East Coast of Demerara. The actions by the current government, which can justifiably be described as spiteful, vindictive, petty political witch-hunting, is because former President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, opted to build his home, a right afforded every Guyanese citizen, in the Sparendaam Housing Development; so they have conjured a plethora of accusations denouncing him for acquiring a home in this country, to which he gave decades of selfless and unstinting service. We in the PPP/C have endlessly called on our accusers to show to the public figures and statistics, and their sources of information of all their allegations of fraud committed by the former administration; as well as to reveal where all these monies they claim were stolen by the PPP/C administration went. Since this issue is one in a continuum of sensational national discussions I take this opportunity, through this missive, to publicly urge the convening of a public forum on corruption for (Continued on page 6)
Russia appreciates the condolences from all certain kinds of terof Guyana utilizing rorists to pursue selfish goals. DEAR EDITOR, An investigation is underway to restore a chain of events that led to the detonation of explosive device in the St. Petersburg subway on April 3, 2017. A second explosive device was swiftly detected and defused by FSB bomb squad. The Russian Investigative Committee said it has established the identity of a suicide bomber after examining the attacker’s remains from the blast site. The death toll continues to rise and has reached 14 persons. The city subway has been operational according to regular schedule. The Russian authorities are taking necessary steps to strengthen security in the major cities of Russia. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that terrorism is a crime against all humankind and all religions. He also stressed the need to step up the fight against terrorism, “instead of
“President Vladimir Putin and many world leaders including US President Donald Trump, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Turkish President Recep Erdogan, King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud have expressed their condolences to the Russian people. The Russian Government firmly believes that only by joint efforts the world community can defeat the evil of international terrorism. We appreciate profound condolences on tragic event in St. Petersburg expressed by many Guyanese as well as Diplomatic Corps representatives in Georgetown. Aleksei Illiuviev Press Attache Russian Embassy in Guyana
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Guyana’s sugar estates and my angst at what is happening DEAR EDITOR, My compassion for people – particularly my Guyanese people – is what has driven me to politics. I grew up in a rice farming family. In fact, my family still owns rice lands. In my teenage years I shifted from the active rice farming into real estate and other entrepreneurial ventures, which have served me in good stead over the years. However, I never lost my love for the people of the country of my birth. Given my early beginnings, I can identify closely with the farming community. Therefore, you must understand my hurt and the deep burden on my heart as I watch the realities of what is unfolding along the sugar belt of Guyana. First it was the Wales Sugar Plantation that has closed and plunged that community into an economic conundrum. Wales was always a quiet village – my wife is from there – however, it has now become a virtual ghost town as the economic mainstay (sugar) has dried up. I live in Vreed-en-Hoop, a mere 15-20 minutes’ drive from Wales. In my efforts to assist as best as I can, I often frequent that village and present myself as a sounding board for the bewildered residents. But again my patriotic emotions took a beating as I visited the Canje area last week. There is talk there that the Estate might be closing.
And the disorientation and anguish that are now befalling the Wales community, is being repeated with similar and even more widespread results, in Canje. Editor, how can a people who have known only one way of living, grapple with the facts of losing their livelihood? After generations of sugar cropping, how does an entire village – with all the subordinate infrastructures – adjust to these harsh realities of a massive shift? The United Republican Party (URP) has stated clearly that the responsibility for this sugar disaster falls squarely upon the PPP’s shoulder. They had 23 years to correct any negative effects that the 28 years of the Burnham regime might have caused. However, rather than plan with the sugar workers in mind, they stole billions of dollars, paid the sugar unions and executives fat-cat salaries, built their Pradovilles and invested in the Skeldon white elephant. However, the Granger administration must find a way of alleviating the tangible fears of these sugar workers. Race and/or political allegiances must be put aside! At least the government can make a pledge to the people to award them portions of the lands for their personal use. Or the administration can use a sizable subvention to pay out the workers based on their years of service. (The Guyanese
would not be opposed to this). Or indeed, the government can have some consultants sit with the workers and explain what can be done to avert this nightmare. I am sure that if a feasible plan is presented to the anxious sugar workers, they will be willing to listen and make the necessary adjustments. It is quite unfair to speak of closing these estates and not simultaneously talk about contingent plans for the livelihood of those who will suffer. Editor, I have been also visiting the town of Linden and the barrenness of a failed Bauxite Town is saddening. Poverty, lack and brokenness are visible everywhere in Linden. Linden and its people have been forgotten. However, the collective fallout from the wide scale closing of the sugar estates will be multiplied several times over. It might even cost social unrest and worse. The URP is calling on the government to show an unparallel level of political and humanistic restraint. If I am not directly subject to the impending suffering, and yet can be this perturbed by the realities, I can well imagine what those sugar farmers are going through, knowing that their futures are now uncertain. The level of the PNCCoalition ability to lead in this matter is being keenly observed. Dr. Vishnu Bandhu Leader, URP
Mr. President please let the army fix my car it damaged DEAR EDITOR, I am kindly asking your newspaper to reproduce this letter I have sent to H.E. President David Granger. I am writing to express my frustration over the sloth of the Guyana Defence Force in repairing my vehicle, which was damaged by a member of the GDF almost a year ago. I had written to President David Granger on this issue, and though he had responded positively, the situation regarding my damaged car has not changed. Here is the gist of my letter to
Friday April 07, 2017
Kaieteur News
President Granger, sent to him on 2016-09-01. Dear Mr. President; I, the undersigned, am hereby writing requesting your intervention in a case concerning an accident resulting in the destruction of my car by government officials of the Guyana Defense Force. On July 10, 2016, I was driving along the East Bank of Demerara heading for Linden and was involved in a collision with an army vehicle which was coming from Timehri and heading to Georgetown. The matter was taken to court and the soldier, Corporal Dexter Rivers, was charged with dangerous driving. The Guyana Defence Force vowed to fix the vehicle
and advised me to leave the vehicle in Georgetown, and this was done. I have been trying to contact them and query the progress since. To date NO repairs were done and it seems no effort is being made to do same. I am a construction worker and use this vehicle to carry my tools to and fro when doing business. Hence the absence of this vehicle is hindering my livelihood and I have two dependents to maintain. I am kindly and humbly asking that you intervene so the matter can be rectified as was promised. I thank you in advance for your kind consideration. I have attached photos Mark Mc Ewan.
Work nowadays is not within easy reach of most of us in Guyana DEAREDITOR, It does not appear that the current Board of Guysuco will ever be able to turn around the industry without very serious measures being taken. To date we are witnessing the harassment of the Board by both political and union forces which are combining to perhaps make the government’s efforts of the turn around fail. I feel that if alternative work has been arranged for the 300 workers at Wales and the 40 workers at Enmore, then they should avail themselves of the opportunity. Work nowadays is not within easy reach of most of us here in Guyana. I personally know of quite a few courageous persons who have much commuting to do each day of the week. I would admit that one does not readily like the idea of traveling far distances and then have to put in an 8 hours of arduous work for the day. I myself have had to travel long distances in order to get to the workplace each day while I lived in a country where most Guyanese desire to go. Locally I still travel long distances most days of the week going as far as Bartica, Charity, and Corriverton most days of the week. The union, workers and their political associates must realise that Guysuco is not any longer in its favoured position as in years gone by. Only re-
cently the European Union has given notice of decreased quotas and reduced prices for their new fiscal year. Since the workers are refusing to turn up for work when they have been given specific assignments, I feel that what they are doing is signaling that they have quit. When a man quits he is not entitled to severance payments. I believe that they should have at least tried out the new work for a week or two before protesting. Then they would have been able to draw to management’s attention whatever difficulties they would have faced. Only then could proper talks about finding remedies could have been entertained. In the circumstances, I feel that the government if it is desirous of saving the industry, should send out an appeal to the authorities of fellow Caricom country Haiti and actively recruit, say, 400 labourers for the harvesting of cane. These persons would have been recently chased out of their cane harvesting jobs in Santo Domingo, and they would relish the idea of guaranteed work here in Guyana. This could be looked at as a short gap measure in order to mitigate imminent losses. These workers could come in to Guyana each year as temporary farm workers until we got the industry back up in good shape.
Guysuco should understand that factories that work a mere 6 months for the year are not adequate enough. All factories should be made to work at least 9 months in the year and thus improve profitability. It will mean rearranging how we plant canes so that enough fields are available for reaping in order to have a longer season. Factory downtime is too long and this can in no way be profitable. The shift to just a few factories working is not bad but we must ensure that we get optimum production from the units that would be left running. Then, too, more bagasse would be produced for co-generation purposes. Lastly the management personnel of Guysuco should understand that their fringes and even pay should now be subject to cuts in keeping with ensuring that the cash flow of the company is not unduly burdened at this time. These cuts should be undertaken for an initial 2 years period. A brand new culture is needed in the operations of Guysuco and all and sundry must understand this. The union’s recalcitrance coupled with the pigheadedness of their political associates will only speed up the demise of the industry. When the industry dies so too will the union and their political associates. Cyril Walker
PPP has an agenda that is about... From page 4 But long gone are the days when workers will burn the cane fields, destroy their rice crops, starve their families for PPP politicians and more over be made political footballs. The PPP if interested must come to the floor and join hands in making Guyana a better place and stop inciting racism and economic shutdown. If the PPP cabals truly love Guyana they will work with the government in ensuring that Guyana rises to the occasion as we welcome oil finds that will enable all Guyanese to be better. The APNU+AFC Government must
now brace itself for what can be a worse case scenario in the business and working sectors as the PPP leaders are going around spreading hatred and urging businesses to stop their operations. I urge the citizens of this land of ours to look deep into the hearts of the PPP and realize what they are fighting for and what they want. For sure they are not fighting for the people’s betterment but for their personal betterment and gains. Abel Seetaram APNU+AFC Regional Councilor Region 5
TIME FOR A PUBLIC, TELEVISED... From page 5 stakeholders countrywide, where accusers and accused can debate the allegations of fraud and corruption against the PPP/C leadership; and where the accusers can – and should, present irrefutable evidence to validate their accusations; or admit that their accusations have no merit. An apology would also be nice. However, we are of the considered opinion that they will never rise to the challenge because their unfounded allegations are vented with an evil intention and a specific agenda; and that is to discredit the PPP/C leadership and to cast doubts in the
public’s mind about the soundness of their character and commitment to working for the national welfare, as opposed to enriching themselves at the expense of the Guyanese taxpayers. Until proven otherwise, we are convinced that this smear campaign against the PPP/C leadership, and the proclivity of the intellectual authors to fabricate and publicize sensational figures to capture headlines, as both ego-boosters and attentiongrabbers, and this mastered art of creating fictional stories designed to denigrate and demonize opponents, are ploys to deflect public attention from their abject
failure in all areas, their incompetence, ineptitude, and poor leadership and administrative skills, all of which characterize this current government, where the twin sins of arrogance and ignorance flourish. So let us assemble accusers and accused, the voices of reason in the Guyanese society; and yes, any interested party, to settle this matter once and for all. If those who feed the nation with their daily concocted diatribes of irrational hate want to retain any credibility then they should take up our challenge. The gauntlet is thrown. Juan Edghill
Friday April 07, 2017
That GECOM Chairman selection process - PART II DEAR EDITOR, In my last letter dated 29th March, 2017, I advocated that the methodology for choosing and placing Commissioners on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) must undergo serious repair and restoration. Because I had foreseen this imbroglio in which the Government and Political Parties now find themselves, a study was commissioned as early as September 2005 to deal, inter alia, with this very issue. The Report, which was shared with Political Parties, is also in the Offices of the GECOM Chairman and the Chief Election Officer. The study was carried out by a genuine and renowned legal luminary (specializing in Electoral Law), Mr. Carl Dundas, who was also a former Chief Election Officer of Jamaica. Mr. Dundas who was sponsored by the Commonwealth Secretariat (ComSec) delivered to GECOM a collection of methods for establishing an Elections Commission in other countries, including ComSec Member States. One should also recall that the UNDP has also recently brought in a Team (just over a few weeks ago) to meet with stakeholders and to suggest whether and in which areas Constitutional Reform is needed. Stakeholders may wish to look at that Team’s proposals, if and when the Report is made public — as it should be. Even now, in order to immediately commence with tangible undertakings, which could lead to a solution of the problem, may I suggest that a Special Commission/ Committee be established, the Scope of Work, Terms of Reference and the List of Duties of which could include considerations dealing with the following: 1) The number of Commissioners; for example, five, including the Chairperson. 2) How long may members sit on the Commission - for example, should the entire Commission be automatically dissolved, say one month after elections; or after sitting for a pre-defined period during the inter-electoral years. 3) The Chairperson could be appointed (based on clear, unambiguous prerequisites), or he/she could be voted into the position by the Commissioners themselves. The Chairperson could rotate
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after every year. 4) There must be a Deputy Chairperson, who could chair GECOM Meetings during the absence of the substantive Chairperson. In fact, it could be arranged that the Deputy Chairperson could automatically become Chairperson, when the Chairperson-for-a-year returns to being an ordinary Commissioner. 5) The Changes may include a specific number of Political Party representation, who may not vote on issues, but who could contribute to the general discussion on any subject matter and, above all, be made aware of the decisions and how the latter have been arrived at. 6) The Constitution or Statute Law must dictate clearly what the Commission can and cannot do, for example: (i) The functions of the new GECOM Commissioners may be limited to their discussions geared to determining best practice undertakings, which are reflective of and in consonance with internationally accepted, tested and proven policies, but do not include the active management of the electoral processes. (ii) The Chief Election Officer must be the Accounting Officer and the custodian of GECOM’s finances. To what degree, Commissioners may or may not be directly involved in the accountability and monitoring of expenditure of monies will have to be established, bearing in mind that such invigilation should really, be the job of the Ministry of Finance (Minister, Permanent Secretary, Director of Budget, Procurement SubCommittees, etc) and the National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC), and the Auditor General’s Office. (iii) The new law could mandate that the Commission (the primary job which is to formulate policy) advise on the recruitment of (or it can seek advice from) technical experts from Guyana or abroad in specific instances, for example in the areas of electronic registration, voting and the transmission/ delivery of elections results in a timely manner. 7) The new law could dictate that a certain percentage (e.g. two or three out of five) of the Commissioners should be women. 8) Civil Society/Private
Sector/legal luminaries/ technocrats could be assured places on the Commission. 9) The governing principle must be that the GECOM Commission should be composed of persons who have the confidence of relevant facets of society. They should have the trust of political parties, but not be drawn from them. Selfish Party interests must be removed from the process. It is compulsory to select persons not on the basis of political affiliations, but on the basis of their high, tested and proven standing in society. They should be persons who carry moral authority and are known for their political neutrality, wisdom and common sense. Such people still exist in Guyana. Whether such persons would want to be members of Guyana Elections Commission is another matter entirely. It is perhaps advisable, but not compulsory, to include a senior and respected member of the judiciary. What matters most, however, must be the proven impartiality, integrity and competence of those selected to undertake this onerous task. 10) The criteria and procedures governing the composition of, and appointment to the Commission, as well as those for disqualification or removal must be clearly spelled out in a Constitutional Amendment or in Statute Law. 11) The proposed Special Commission/Committee (prior to the establishment or a new Elections Commission) would have to review the currently relevant Articles [(161(I); 161(B); 164(I); 164(2) (b), etc], prepare a Draft set of rules and regulations for public scrutiny and public debate [Referendum?] before the eventual Act comes into being. As I have stated at the very commencement, the (guiding, not allencompassing) ideas documented above are constructed with the sole motive of improving the functionality of and ameliorating the trust in the Guyana Elections Commission. There is no question, about “undermining” the Constitution. One does not have to agree with or accept the suggestions above; but, at least, there should be dialogue on the matter. Steve Surujbally A.A. Former Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission
Pres. should hold regular press conferences - GPA …has not held a press conference in over a year
PPP/C Member of Parliament Anil Nandlall
President of the Guyana Press Association Neil Marks
President David Granger
By Brushell Blackman
to answer questions that the media might have, he said. President of the Guyana Press Association (GPA), Neil Marks, said that although the president has been accessible to the media at functions it is the consensus among media operatives that the Head of State should hold regular press conferences. The President’s Communications Director, Mark Archer, said that all questions in relation to the lack of press conferences by the Head of State should be
directed to the president. Archer added that he was unable to speak on the issue. So too said the Head of the Department of Public (DPI) Information, Imran Khan. Former Attorney General and People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) member Anil Nandlall believes that the president has a duty to meet with the press on a regular basis. Nandlall believes that the fortnightly ‘Public Interest’ that features the president can in no way (Continued on page 13)
It has been more than a year since Head of State David Granger has held a press conference outside of the fortnightly televised ‘Public Interest’ which is a programme moderated and produced by the Ministry of Presidency. When the Head of State was questioned on the issue he said he is always accessible to the media. Whenever he attends any function he is always willing
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Parliamentary Sectoral Committee hears of...
Lack of key equipment, medication at Diamond hospital
The Diamond Diagnostic Centre, East Bank Demerara. A dysfunctional incubator in the hall of the hospital waiting to be “written-off”. The Diamond Diagnostic Centre (DDC) has once again found itself in the spotlight after the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Social Services discovered that a shortage of drugs and key laboratory equipment existed at the East Bank Demerara facility yesterday. The Committee’s visit was done in keeping with its responsibilities to examine all policies and administration for each sector to determine whether the execution of Government policy is in consonance with the principle of good governance and in the best interest of the nation. The committee comprises both Opposition and Govern-
ment Members of Parliament (MPS) and is chaired by Opposition MP, Dr. Vindhya Persaud. Other members of the committee include from the Opposition, Alister Charlie, Indranie Chandarpal and Vishwa Mahadeo; from the Government, Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman; Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs Minister, Valerie Garrido-Lowe; Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Patterson; and the Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings. The team comprising mostly of Opposition MPs
was welcomed to the facility by the Medical Superintendant (MS), Dr. Maite Comacho Vasquez; Hospital Coordinator, Dr. Marina De La Torre Garcia; and the Head of the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department, Dr. C. Britton. In the Office of the Medical Superintendent, the purpose of the visit was made known to the staff which led to a series of questions being asked by committee members with regards to the functioning of the facility. The Committee Chairperson, Persaud, told the staff that the committee’s mission is merely a fact-finding one. She implored the Heads of Department and nurses to highlight some of the challenges being faced so that recommendations can be made to help correct them. She stated, also, that the committee will be paying keen attention to the performance of the hospital staff and noted that the findings will be compiled into a report with the necessary recommendations that will be later presented to the National Assembly for necessary actions. However, should the committee recognise issues that can be addressed immediately; recommendations will be made to have them resolved within the shortest time possible, Dr. Persaud
Chairperson of the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Social Services, Opposition MP, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (Left); engaging the Medical Superintendant (MS), Dr. Maite Comacho Vasquez (Second from left); and other doctors at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre yesterday morning. stated. The Medical Superintendent, Dr. Vasquez pointed out that there is an absence of key equipment such as x-ray machines, components for the ultrasound device and lab equipment. The sterilisation machine is also reportedly not functioning 100 percent. It was noted that a ‘makeshift’ machine is being used to sterilise equipment. Dr. Vasquez assured the committee that these items, and the needed fixtures have already been ordered and are about to be shipped to Guyana. She could not say
when. Quizzed about the supply of medication, Dr. Vasquez revealed that there is limited supply of insulin at the facility for patients. The drug is being reserved for emergency services she said. Upon further inquiry, the MS stated that this has been the case for the last two months. There is also a reported shortage of other painkillers such as Panadol however; she explained that other painkillers such as Ibuprofen can be used as an alternative. Dr. Persaud told Kaieteur News that based on her as-
sessment, the doctors are dedicated and are functioning at full capacity however; the issue she said, is the lack of the needed equipment and drugs to carry out their work effectively. This, she said, is stymieing the facility to provide efficient and effective health care services to the large majority of citizens who depend on the hospital for daily services. The opposition MP noted that all these observances will be taken into account when the report is being compiled to be presented to the National Assembly.
Friday April 07, 2017
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Contract or pensionable service? Governments have two options when it comes to employing workers. The first is to hire them on contracts. The second way is to place them on the pensionable establishment. In the first case, workers are not entitled to pensions when they retire (not many of them hope to work that long in any event. You are paid a gratuity equivalent to a percentage of your salary in lieu of a pension. In the second case, you are employed by the public service commission and can only be dismissed or disciplined by the body. After 33.3 years you are entitled to a pension; after a certain amount of years, you are entitled to gratuity. You have to retire at 55 years under that system. The APNU+AFC had been highly critical of the high numbers of workers in the public service who were contracted employees. The APNU+AFC failed to appre-
ciate that contract employment was born during the period of the Hoyte administration when the regime was forced to employ persons on contract because it simply could not attract skilled persons into a low-pay public service. APNU+AFC made a big fuss about the contract employees under the PPPC. They accused the PPPC of using the system to employ friends, family and political acolytes. The PPPC in rebuttal said that the contract system offered workers a choice – whether to work on contract or on the pensionable system. The APNU+AFC did not buy that argument. When the APNU+AFC got into office it was different story. They used the very contract system which they had condemned under the PPPC to offer jobs to persons of their choosing. In fact, after the first two budgets, the view of independent analysts
was that the numbers of contract employees were higher than it was under the PPPC. So why in the first two years did APNU+AFC not keep their campaign promise to reduce the number of contract employees in the public service? And why are they now moving to place doctors presently on contracts to pensionable employment? The first two years, the government employed persons of its choosing on contract so that it could have these persons in the system. It put alot of its supporters and persons it favoured for certain jobs in positions. It also got rid of a lot of contract employees who worked under the PPP by terminating their contracts or allowing it to be run its course at the end of which they did not renew the contract. This made way for more contract employees of their choosing. Doctors are now being asked to move to pensionable
Serving police constable slapped with two fraud charges A 42-year-old Police Constable was yesterday released on $30,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after being slapped with two fraud related charges. Constable David Singh of Lot 1246 Eccles New Housing Scheme, who is attached to the Tactical Service Unit, denied the first charge which alleged that on January 26, at Penny Lane, South Ruimveldt Garden, Georgetown with intent to defraud, he falsely pretended that he would pay $6,000 per day for 40 days to use hire car PVV 9900 from Troy Jacobs, knowing his claim to be false. It was further alleged that between February 1, 2016 and December 31, 2016, at Eccles,
East Bank Demerara, having received $400,000 on the account of Latchman Mohabir from Rajindra Harrychan, he fraudulently converted the monies to his own use and benefit. Singh pleaded not guilty to both charges after they were read to him by the Magistrate. He was represented by Attorney-at-Law Patrice Henry who asked that his client be released on his own recognizance. The lawyer further disclosed that both virtual complainants in the matter have been fully reimbursed. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore had no objection to bail being granted to the defendant and told the court that Singh is still performing
Released on bail Constable David Singh duties in the Guyana Police Force. Singh was granted $15,000 bail on each charge and will make his next court appearance on April, 21.
employment. Many of the doctors are not going to be interested. They are going to leave. These are different times and professionals are not going to stick around for thirty odd years to receive a pension. Most of them, in any event are waiting on a better offer overseas. When you push them to go onto the pensionable establishment, they will leave faster. There is another problem though. For any contract employee or new employee to be placed on the pensionable establishment, then the permission of the Public Service Commission has to be sought. The Public Service Commission should refuse to rubber
stamp any appointments made either by the PPPC or by the APNU+AFC. They should make it clear that they desire a transparent system. For anyone to be employed in the pensionable establishment, the positions should be advertised and persons should have to apply for the job. It does not matter how long you were working in the system as a contract employee. Once you came in as a contract employee, you should have to apply and be interviewed for the job. New persons to the job should be similarly treated. There should be a competitive process for all appointments. The
Public Service should conduct these interviews and should not rubber stamp employment already decided upon by the political directorate. This will solve the problem once and for all. Let the Public Service Commission be responsible for all employment of persons on the pensionable establishment.
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=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Ramsammy is a ramshorn that is ramentaceous Open the papers and the consistent propaganda of this man stares you in the face as you read the letter pages. It is Leslie Ramsammy who writes a missive more than once a week. He is published in the Kaieteur News, too, because a newspaper has to open up itself to all kinds of views outside of libel and distasteful descriptions. Whenever you hear the name Leslie Ramsammy you think of what a mess Guyana is. This is the man who as Minister of Health was in charge of Guyana’s medical system where people died after waiting for more than eight hours to see a doctor at the Accident and Emergency at the Georgetown Hospital. This was the man who when he was Minister of Health, there were questionable deaths of people who were in police custody at the hospital. During the crime spree, 2002-
2005, Mark Thomas, called Kerzorkie, was arrested by the police for involvement in an extra-judicial squad that went around killing people as part of a gang to hunt down persons associated with the Buxton gunmen. Thomas was arrested for the extra-judicial hit on a man named Shafeek Bacchus who was part of the group but broke off and was willing to talk. Thomas was poisoned on his hospital bed. Samples sent to Trinidad returned inconclusive. Whatever substance that was used to kill Thomas was arranged by a skillful person. The police arrested David Leander called “Biscuit” for multiple murders, including the Minister of Agriculture, Sash Sawh’s. He was a member of the “Fine Man” killing machine. Leander was transferred from the Camp Street
prison to the Georgetown Public Hospital after complaining of being unwell. While at the hospital he died. The post-mortem could not reveal the cause of death. The theory is that he was poisoned. As in the case of Thomas, toxicology reports were inconclusive. Whoever poisoned Leander knew his/her art. Leslie Ramsammy was also the Minister of Health when the Roger Khan infamy began. Khan had in his possession a state of the art laptop that was used by governments for intelligence purposes. In common jargon it is called spy equipment. It is a sophisticated device that under US law could only be sold to governments. The Miami shop that sold it said that a Minister of the Guyana Government was the purchaser. Leslie Ramsammy was
named by the manager as the buyer. Only in Guyana could Ramsammy roam freely without being investigated for activities during the crime spree. Ramsammy’s name has been called by Selwyn Vaughn who cooperated with US authorities in their investigations of Roger Khan. Vaughn testified at the trial of Khan’s lawyer, Robert Simmel, that Khan ordered the murder of Ronald Waddell. After the assassination that night, Vaughn said Khan contacted Ramsammy. When that information was put to Ramsammy he denied it. He said at the time of Waddell’s homicide, he was mourning the death of his father. It was under Ramsammy as Minister of Agriculture, we saw the decline of the sugar industry and the white elephant named Skeldon factory. Ramsammy recently resurfaced in Guyana and is writing two letters a week in the newspapers, the contents of which are mischievous and depraved.
For example, he referred to an outbreak of leptospirosis in Region Three with six deaths. This was a figment of his imagination. There is no outbreak, there was never one and no such deaths occurred. Ramsammy can be likened to a rams- horn that the Guyanese people should show disgust for. The Granger Government owes the parents, siblings and wives of over five hundred men who were killed during a wave of mayhem between 2002 and 2005 an obligation to investigate this period. Leslie Ramsammy must be made to give explanations for the myriad of questions surrounding him. He may not have done anything at all but that could only be determined by a judicial commission of enquiry. To think that this man has a background of frightening controversy yet has the temerity to denounce the government for policies that would be pebbles compared to what the Jagdeo
Frederick Kissoon regime did to Guyana, Ramsammy finds the parking meter contract abominable. Shouldn’t Ramsammy tell us about his own contract like the lap top purchase? Does he find any policy that Jagdeo implemented repugnant? Is there anything the present government did that is even in the remotest of ways comparable to the pathological corruptibility of the Jagdeo regime? Ramsammy was a huge part of Jagdeo’s rameseum. His relationship with Jagdeo was ramuliferous and for which he should be investigated.
Dem boys seh ...
Trump and CN alike in nuff ways Everybody in de world got a double. Dem have people who does always meet wid others who swear that dem two meet up before. When dem do check is somebody who look just like de other ones. People get into trouble because dem was nowhere near a place wheh a crime commit but people swear how dem see dem. Is when dem ketch de real culprit and de police put dem together that people does see de difference. Trump and CN alike. Both of dem rich; both of dem does do de things that does mek people cuss. Both of dem run fuh de presidency but de difference is that Trump tun
president and CN never get close to even being a Member of Parliament. De good thing is that Guyana not looking at CN these days but de whole world looking at Trump. De man sit down and shoot off some bomb pun Syria. Of course, some citizens in Syria dead and de world seh how Assad use gas— in short, chemical weapon. Trump barely hear that on TV and he decide to bomb Syria. Dem boys want to know if he think he didn’t kill civilians. De Americans got a name fun people who got dem double. De word is doppelganger. Dem boys seh outside of CN Trump can’t have another person
like him. Dem got another person who got queer ways like Trump. Basil de Willie got a secretary who does tell people when dem go to de office and ask fuh Basil de Willie that dem must say, “De Hanarable Basil de Willie.” One man tell deh how he never see Hanarable pub Basil birth certificate. That man can’t enter de compound to this day. And dem boys seh that even Soulja Bai get instruction o describe Basil de Willie as de Hanarable Basil. Don’t mind he behave dishanarable in front de judge de other day. But he don’t have a double. Talk half and watch out fuh you own double.
Construction worker released on bail for defrauding woman A 33-year-old construction worker was on Wednesday released on bail after being indicted in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for fraud. Claudius Peters of Lot 156 First Street, Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara pleaded not guilty to both charges after they were read to him by the Magistrate. Particulars of the charges leveled against the construction worker stated that on July 17, 2015 in Georgetown having received the sum of $274,000 from Damillie Wilson to construct
the lower flat of her home, he converted the money to his own use and benefits. It was further alleged that that on August 2, 2016 in Georgetown having received $282,500 from Damallie Wilson again to construct the lower flat of her home, he converted the money to his own use and benefits. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore told the court that the defendant was willing to repay the victim and that he had in his possession $100,000 to give her. Peters also requested three months to repay the virtual complainant since he is currently unable to work
Released on bail Claudius Peters due to injuries he sustained in an accident. Peters was ordered to pay $50,000 on the spot. He will make his next court appearance on April 14.
Friday April 07, 2017
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Central Bank, Jordan threatens cambios - says PPP - matter to be raised in Nat’l Assembly The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has expressed alarm over what it says are reports that Central Bank has threatened cambio operators to be derisked by commercial banks unless they trade at specific rates. The Parliamentary opposition party, in making it clear yesterday that the “abuses” by Central Bank, as the regulator, are a violation of the law, said it will be raising the issue in the National Assembly. This latest development will come as businesses continue to grapple with delays in wiring monies overseas. Central Bank had announced a number of measures including cambio operators not having more than a $3 spread between the buying and selling rates. A number of factors, including reduction of earnings from lower exports last year, saw Guyana falling short of the 2015 figures by over US$30M. In addition, a number of neighbouring countries, facing a cash shortage of especially US dollars, have
been trekking to Guyana to buy up. According to the PPP, the measures by Central Bank are of tremendous concern. The party said it viewed, as high handed and unconstitutional, the actions of Central Bank and Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, in issuing instructions and directives to banks and cambio operators. “It must be noted that these cambios operate under specific laws and any attempt to force these cambios to buy or sell currency at specific rates is in violation of the law,” PPP said in a statement issued by Irfaan Ali, a senior Parliamentarian. It was pointed out that the country’s foreign currency market operates based on a floating exchange rate and is therefore determined and influenced by demand and supply. “The Minister of Finance cannot fix the rate based on his own wishes. As has been noted by many businesses there is a shortage of US dollar in the economy. To address this, the Central Bank needs to address the supply side
and not dictate against the realities of the market,” PPP insisted. PPP is arguing that the economy is weakening. It said that the currency is going to continue to lose value. This, coupled with reduction in foreign direct investments (FDI) and severe shortfall in foreign currency earned from export trade for forestry and agriculture, will have an impact. The situation will only get worse, the statement said. PPP also claimed that it received information that the Central Bank has threatened cambio operators to have them derisked by the commercial banks and to have their accounts closed if they do not sell currency at the specific rates stipulated by the Central Bank. “These instructions and directives are in contravention of the laws and an abuse of authority by the Central Bank. The People’s Progressive Party has also learnt of direct threats…to cambio operators who do not follow the instructions of the Governor and sell their foreign currency at a dictated rate.” These abuses, the party
Guysuco moving from sugar to fish …300 acre aquaculture farm on the cards As the cash strapped Guyana Sugar Corporation (Guysuco) looks to new ways to generate funds to ensure its sustenance fish farming is one of the avenues that is being looked at. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Guysuco Errol Hanoman said that a 300-acre aquaculture farm is being looked at as one of the possibilities to inject much needed funds into the entity. He said that tilapia is the preferred species of fish that is being considered. According to Hanoman a feasibility study is currently being done by an American company and those findings will be presented to the government by the end of the month. Hanoman said that he is hopeful that the pilot project of this size will arrest the slide that currently prevails in the troubled industry. He said that upon completion of the feasibility study the corporation will be in a better position to pronounce on the actual financial returns that will be accrued from the venture. Hanoman added that he did not want to preempt how much the industry stands to benefit from the undertaking, but he said based on the magnitude of the project he was optimistic that it should be
CEO of Guysuco Errol Hanoman substantial. Further, Harmon explained that the aquaculture project is part of a wider plan to diversify the industry as Guyana’s sugar continues to attract less than favourable prices for sugar abroad. He said that this project will aid in widening the revenue base of the industry added to the proposed seed paddy facility that has already been announced by the government. Tony Vieira who currently heads the diversification unit at Guysuco had explained in a letter that the aquaculture project is a worthwhile one. Vieira said trials were done for the government
for $200 million in 2008 by the University of Arizona and the Collaborative Research Support Programme. He said that the price for tilapia in 2006 was US$1.10 per pound. However Vieira said today the price would venture close to US$2 per pound since the price has gone up. The trial yielded 21,780 pounds of tilapia per acre which worked out to US$43,560 per acre in gross income. This was actually two crops a year of 10,890 pounds in each crop and 10,000 pounds per acre. That project found that if Guysuco were growing tilapia instead of cane its income would be US$43,560 a year per acre, nearly 400 per cent greater than sugar cane. Vieira who has been in sugar cultivation for many years said that if the 120,000 acres of sugar cultivation was growing tilapia and not sugar cane, we would be earning US$5.2 billion from it annually and not the US$132M annually that sugar raked in. He said that nothing ever done in Guyana’s history comes even close to the magnitude of this kind of income. “Even if the study conducted in 2008 had an error of 100 per cent we would still be earning US$2.6 billion which is more than gold, rice, bauxite and sugar combined.”
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan
Central Bank Governor, Dr. Gobind Ganga
said, are a clear indication of the undemocratic and authoritative approach that the Ministry of Finance is taking to impose unsustainable exchange rates on the operators. “The People’s Progressive Party is highly concerned with this new development in the economic sphere of our country and we assure the citizens that we will continue to be vigilant against the economic ineptitude of the APNU+AFC Government. The PPP would be raising specific questions in relation to this issue in the Parliament.” In recent months, the US selling rate has been creeping
up with one commercial bank even advertising credit card selling rates at $230 for one US$1. Government, in admitting that the country’s foreign earnings fell short by over US$30M last year as compared to 2015, said it had found several cases of abuses in the trade. The s e include neighbouring countries coming here, and a large spread between the b u y i n g a n d selling rates at some cambios. Central Bank trade of Trinidadian and Barbados currencies were suspended as a result. Central Bank issued a circular earlier this year to cambios to ensure that that
the spread is not more than $3M and that board rates are what is being used. At least one money transfer company, controlled by a Trinidadian conglomerate, was pulled in for not releasing the overseas funds to local banks. A number of local companies were also being accused to using multiple banks to transfer large amounts for other than legitimate transactions. Throughout it all, Central Bank has insisted that it has been releasing foreign currencies intermittently to the banks. As recently as last Friday, approval was granted for at least one commercial bank to receive more than US$700,000. Some customers have been complaining of waiting for over a month for transfers to play suppliers. Normal customers have been complaining of being told by commercial banks of no monies even for as little as US$1,000. Republic Bank yesterday had advertised rates for wire transfers $210 (selling) while the buying rate was $208.50. It was the same at the Guyana Bank For Trade and Industry. Demerara Bank was selling for $204, according to its website.
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Money laundering risks…
Collaboration between agencies needed to prevent chances for abuse –Goolsarran Chartered Accountant, Anand Goolsarran, is of the firm impression that there is a need for greater collaboration among various agencies to ensure that car dealerships and real estate businesses are given the protection they need against customers with ill-gotten cash. Goolsarran said that car dealers who effect sale of luxury vehicles should be made to inform both the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), though the latter would have some information at the time of registration of the vehicles. The former Auditor General said that GRA also needs to cross-check with the
taxpayer’s file to ascertain whether his/her income supports that kind of purchase. When there is a mismatch, Goolsarran said that arbitrary assessments should be raised and the FIU informed. The Chartered Accountant also stated that the same should apply to real estate businesses. In this regard, Goolsarran articulated that the Deeds Registry should also provide the FIU and the GRA with information when there are changes in transports and certificates of title. “Again, GRA needs to cross-check with the related taxpayer’s file to verify source of income for the purchase of property. Where such verification reveals unexplained
sources of income, arbitrary assessments should be raised and the FIU informed.” Furthermore, local authorities are of the opinion that the car dealership industry and real estate businesses do not have enough mechanisms in place to limit the chances of being used by purchasers whose sole intention is to launder their ill-gotten cash. Given these concerns, officials at the Bank of Guyana have told Kaieteur News that this state of affairs needs to be changed. The officials noted that there is currently no individual supervisory body in place to govern the operations of the two areas of business. They opine that lack of supervision leaves both as “easy prey” to money
laundering risks. They explained, too, that these two areas are in fact subject to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act. The officials were careful to note that they have no intention to discredit those persons in the auto sale business or the real estate sector in a “willy-nilly” fashion. “However, it is a requirement by law that all loopholes for money laundering be closed, and that is essentially what we understand is being done. It is true that they are without a supervisory body. If you see, for example, the casinos, they have a supervisory body in the form of the Gaming Authority. But indeed there needs to be enough checks and balances in the real estate area and in the car dealership area, so that businesses can be able to protect themselves from those who have a different agenda,” one senior Bank of Guyana official explained. He added, “This is something that is also being looked at internationally, so it is not unique to see Guyana looking to remove every opportunity for abuse.” The officials reminded that the International Monetary Fund (IMF), was recently in Guyana to assess the economic health of the nation and in doing so, it examined the strengths and weaknesses of the financial
Chartered Accountant, Anand Goolsarran sector. A number of observations were made in relation to the financial sector, including the fact that Guyana still has more work to do with regard to strengthening its antimoney laundering measures. According to the IMF, Guyana has commendably exited the Financial Action Task Force monitoring and concluded a National Risk Assessment. However, “It should continue to strengthen its Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism framework in line with international standards.” The body also zeroed in on the need for “stronger supervisory and regulatory regimes”, in line with the World
Bank’s Financial Sector Assessment Program (FSAP). Another body which has zeroed in on the need for greater scrutiny of car dealerships and real estate businesses was Transparency International. The global watchdog recently completed a report “Tainted Treasures: Money laundering risks in luxury markets”, which highlights concerns that luxury good sellers are doing little to check if their customers are using corrupt money to fund their high-end purchases. Transparency International is calling for Governments in high-risk countries to introduce specific laws to mandate due diligence for high-risk luxury goods sales and establish a designated authority to enforce them. “For the corrupt, the luxury sector is more than just a money laundering vehicle. The behaviour of kleptocrats who amass millions of dollars in properties, sports cars and art, in a short period of time, shows that the desire to own luxury can in fact be one of the drivers of corrupt behaviour. “The luxury sector has a responsibility to prevent public funds, which could have gone to schools and hospitals, from being splurged on their products even if it means fewer sales,” said Transparency International Chair José Ugaz.
Former murder accused on bail after beating vagrant with steel rod Taijpaul Narine, 47, of Lot 202 Garnett Street, Newton, Georgetown, a former murder accused was yesterday released on bail after he was charged with felonious wounding for allegedly beating a vagrant with a steel rod. The unrepresented man appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and denied the charge which alleged that on January1, at Stabroek Market, he unlawfully and maliciously inflicted grievous bodily harm
on Sigbert Fraser. According to Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore, the defendant was previously charged with the capital offence of murder in 2013 and was sentenced to prison. However Narine told the court that he was sentenced to death by hanging and appealed the case and won. Narine went on to tell the court that he does odd jobs around the Stabroek Market. The court heard that Narine lashed the virtual complainant who is said to be
a vagrant several times about his body with a length of steel rod. The Prosecutor further told the court that the injuries the virtual complainant received are potentially life threatening. Narine was released on $15,000 bail and ordered to report to the officer in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department Brickdam, Police Station every day until the completion of the trial. Narine will make his next court appearance on April 19.
Pork-knocker remanded for illegal ammo, cocaine Terrence Curry, 39, yesterday made an appearance in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to answer to two charges.
The charges against Curry alleged that on April 4, last, at Rosemary Lane, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown, he had in his possession a .32 round without being the holder of a valid firearm
license at the time. It was further alleged that on the same day in question at the said location he had in his possession 173 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Curry pleaded not guilty to both charges and was remanded to prison. Curry will make his next court appearance on April 26, in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
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MAPM rejects Bulkan’s ‘renegotiation’ of parking meter contract The Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM) is against the position taken by Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, that the three month suspension of the Georgetown Parking Meter by-laws is only to facilitate a renegotiation of the contract. According to the MAPM, Bulkan made this statement in an interview with HGPTV Nightly News which was televised on March 27, last. The group said in a statement on Wednesday that Bulkan, during the interview, said that the consultations which are to take place during the suspension period are to facilitate a renegotiation of the contract “on a more equitable formula.” With this in mind, the MAPM reiterated its call for a complete revocation of the contract which was entered into by the Georgetown Mayor and City Council and Smart City Solutions (SCS). The group’s basis for maintaining its position is that the contract is “illegal ab initio having been unlawfully entered into in breach of tendering and procurement legislation among other illegalities and irregularities.” Bolstering its argument, the MAPM said that Bulkan’s position is in conflict with the Ministry of Finance’s review of the contract which concluded that the agreement should be rescinded and not ‘renegotiated’. The group said that it remains watchful and ready to mobilise should the M&CC of Georgetown and SCS seek to reinstate a metered parking system in the Capital City under the contract. Meanwhile, although
Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan consultations are supposed to be held during the threemonth suspension which began two week ago, no consultation has begun with residents of Georgetown and other stakeholders. This was confirmed when Kaieteur News contacted the M&CC public relations department and while speaking with a member of the MAPM. The M&CC was requested to host consultations with the protesting group. However, according to one member, no contact has even been made regarding such engagements. The three-month suspension is expected to end on May 23, 2017. It was instituted following deliberations on the project which had engaged the attention of Cabinet for quite some time. In addition, Cabinet also instructed Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, to advise the Commissioner of Police to ensure that citizens and their vehicles
Flashback: MAPM members during one of their protests against the parking meter contract would receive the protection of the Guyana Police Force to prevent them and their vehicles from being unduly hindered or restrained in any way whatsoever by the Georgetown City Council and its agents. The MAPM has been consistently calling for the revocation of the contract, particularly through eight protests organised by the group and held in-front of City Hall on Regent Street. Present at all of the demonstrations were representatives of civil society, private sector, motorists and residents of Georgetown. Despite the lowering of parking fees and fines, the group has maintained that it is against reduction and supports revocation of the contract. It would want nothing less to be the product of their efforts, the group said. When Kaieteur News
Pres. should hold regular... (From page 7) suffice for meeting with the wider press corps. “The fortnightly TV Programme ‘Public Interest’, where the journalists are obviously chosen and instructed what questions to ask, is not and cannot be a substitute.” The fact is that, media houses are invited to send their reporters who may ask any question they please after the opening round. The former AG said it is the duty of the Head of government, who is also the Head of State, to face the nation’s journalists at regular periodic intervals to answer questions of national and international importance. Nandlall said that when the current government was
in opposition it repeatedly criticized the ruling administration at the time for being unaccountable and not transparent. “Mr. Granger and many of his ministers, who campaigned to practise transparency, democratic and accountable government, now seem to have a phobia for the press.” The PPP/C Member of Parliament said central to the attainment of transparent and accountable government is accessibility to public officials, and members of the government by the media. He said reporters have repeatedly complained about their inability to get access to public officials and Ministers of the government for their comments, views and
answers with respect to burning issues of public importance. Nandlall said it was strange that the same persons to whom the press had access 24 hours per day while they were in the opposition are now rarely accessible. He believes a free and independent media, should be allowed to operate in an environment where there is freedom to receive ideas and information. Further, he said access to public authorities, state agencies and the workings of Government are all considered fundamental prerequisites of a free and democratic society that are the hallmarks of a transparent and accountable government.
reported on details of the original contract it was revealed that if City Hall wishes to unilaterally terminate the contract without the written consent of the company, the City shall pay SCS a lump sum equivalent to the total direct and indirect, hard and soft
cost cumulative gross investment of the company in the project. However, this cost is compounded by an additional 15 per cent of the total direct and indirect, hard and soft cost cumulative gross investment of the company in the project. When that 15 per
cent is calculated it is to be multiplied by the number of remaining years under the agreement. The company was also given the power to begin charging at nights in areas that are high traffic spots. The enforcement activities of the project have also been heavily criticised.
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Kaieteur News
Proposal for Credit Unions to provide low interest mortgages
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ranks at Base Camp Ayanganna for the CH&PA meeting. The Guyana Cooperative Credit Union League (GCCUL) plans to join with the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) to facilitate low interest mortgages to its members for the purchasing of the housing units. This was revealed Wednesday when the Ministry of Communities and CH&PA officials met with the ranks of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) at Base Camp Ayanganna in Thomas Lands. Speaking to the ranks, Minister within the Ministry of Communities with responsibility for housing, Valerie Adams-Patterson, said that the matter of low interest loans was discussed
at the meeting with the Credit Union League. She said that coming out of that meeting Wednesday, the League has agreed to put forward for approval at its Annual General Meeting (AGM), a proposal that its membership body provides loans to finance the cost of homes for its respective members. “Rather than you having to go to the bank and pay how much percentage interest; your credit union will pay us for the apartment and you pay them one percent interest,” the minister said, explaining to the ranks how the proposed plan will work. She said those ranks that are currently not a member of any union to “get on board a
credit union,” to be able to benefit from the partnership. Those ranks already a part of credit unions were also urged to get their unions to support the initiative. “If your executive body is reluctant to come on board the league with this, then you are the one that have to say this is what we want,” the minister pointed out. The minister noted that the initiative has the potential to “see every single soldier owning his own home, and that would be a big plus for Guyana and a big plus for the army,” the minister said. The Guyana Cooperative Credit Union League is the umbrella body for over 24 credit unions across Guyana including the Clerical and
Commercial Workers Cooperative Credit Union Limited, the Guyana Police Force Cooperative Credit Union Limited and the Guyana Defence Force Cooperative Credit Union Limited. The League has a membership of 26,589, and a total asset of $21,614,480. The League AGM is set for May 2016. During that meeting the League will discuss the possible collaboration with the housing department and the option of self-help persons identified for homeownership provide labour to help reduce cost of construction. This feature will especially benefit those persons who may be unable to contribute much financial capital to the cost of their homes, Minister AdamsPatterson explained. She said that by accepting this feature, the CH&PA will be able to explore the possibility of rolling out a separate housing programme that incorporates self-help. Meanwhile, Chief
Executive Officer, CH&PA, Lelon Saul, explained that the housing solutions are in response to the need to move away from “just the delivery of serviced lots,’ at a cost to both the government and the prospective recipient. “We recognise that in many cases, several persons are unable to access mortgage financing and as a result there are several unoccupied lots throughout our schemes and, apart from that, the cost of developing housing schemes is bothersome,” the CH&PA CEO said. Saul noted that the CH&PA has in excess of 25,000 live applications in its system and is looking in to 28,000 lots that were allocated but remain unoccupied. “The point is that, that solution in terms of giving out house lots is not feasible, it is not sustainable and so we had to come up with alternative solutions,” he said. He assured those ranks who had reservations about the new housing initiatives that several factors were taken into consideration when
Eon Worrell, a 25-yearold bus conductor was on Wednesday remanded to prison after he was accused of robbing a man with a cutlass. Worrell, of Lot 277 South Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara, was arraigned before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where he denied the charge which alleged that on April 3, at the Kitty Seawall, Georgetown, while being armed with a cutlass, he robbed Jeremy Sobers of an Iphone 6. Worrell was represented by Attorney-at-Law, Leslie Benjamin, who in an effort to secure bail for her client told
the court that her client was pointed out by the Virtual Complainant at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) while he was in the company of his aunt. The attorney further stated that her client was not given the opportunity to give the police a statement. The court also heard that the defendant had a similar matter dismissed against him last year. Police Prosecutor Simone Payne did not disclose any facts about what transpired on the day in question. However the prosecutor objected to bail for the defendant citing the seriousness, the nature and
Minister within the Ministry of Communities with responsibility for housing, Valerie Adams-Patterson addressing the GDF ranks. designing the units including durability and privacy. The government’s new housing solution caters for the construction of 265 duplexes and 38 townhouses and should benefit 758 families in 2017. The intervention is across ten areas in six regions. The duplexes are of three different designs and to be built of concrete and wood. Each duplex will house three units of 800 square feet and each unit will feature two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen and washroom facility. The town houses will have six units; four twostorey units in the middle and one-flat units at each end of the building. These end units are designed for elderly persons or those persons with a physical disability. The government engineer’s estimates place the cost of these units at $5 to $7 million. The government expects to start construction of the housing unit by the end of June.
Suspected cutlass-wielding thief refused bail
Remanded to prison Eon Worrell gravity of the charge and the penalty it attracts. Worrell will make his next court appearance on April 19.
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Engineers’ Act should stipulate penalties - says veteran adjudicate upon alleged breaches of the Code of Ethics and Practice. The Disciplinary Committee can then make recommendations to the Board which it considers appropriate if an allegation holds merit. If an engineer is found to be in violation of the Code of Ethics, the Board may
After 20 years, the Engineers Professional Bill has not been passed in Parliament For years, engineers individually and collectively under the Guyana Association of Professional Engineers (GAPE) have expressed the need for an Act of parliament which will govern professional engineers. Based on records, the latest update on such a law is the Engineering Professional Bill of 1998. It is unclear why after almost 20 years the proposed Bill has not been passed in Parliament particularly with frequent complaints of shoddy work being done on public projects. According to veteran engineer and Managing Director of Ground Structures Engineering Consultants, Charles Ceres, if there is to be an Act addressing professional engineers, the law should contain penalties which can be applied to errant engineers. Ceres said that he would have seen the proposed Bill years ago. However, he said that the Bill mainly addressed the differentiation between who is qualified to be an engineer as against those who are not. He said that if the Bill is presented and contains penalties relating to works which engineers would have carried out, then he would offer his support. An excerpt of the 1998 Bill revealed a number of areas that are covered under the proposed Bill. These include ‘Practice of Engineering by Organisations’ and ‘Registration of Engineers’. According to the Bill,
there shall be a Board of Engineering which can appoint a Registrar of Engineers as it deems necessary. The registrar would then be expected to keep a Register of Engineers in which the registrar shall enter information of every engineer whose registration was approved by the Board. The information recorded will include the person’s name, residential address and business address, date of registration, a description of and the date on which the qualification entitling him to be registered was obtained, the engineering discipline which he or she is authorised to practise under the Act and such other details as may be prescribed by the Board. Further, the Registrar can be instructed by the Board to remove from the register the name of an engineer who is deceased or is no longer qualified to practise engineering in Guyana. Likewise, the registrar can be instructed to restore a name which was taken off. Before a person can be registered as an engineer that person must satisfy the Board that he or she can write and speak English to a standard approved by the Board, is of good character and satisfies the requirements set out in the Fourth Schedule of the Act. Further, the Registrar shall publish in the Gazette in every quarter of each year, an alphabetical list of the names of persons who are registered with the Board. After engineers would have been registered with the
Board, the latter may cancel or suspend the registration of a person or reprimand a person if he has been found guilty of a breach of the Code of Ethics and Practice Engineers. The Board may cancel or suspend for any period, the registration of an engineer, if a court of competent jurisdiction or a body constituted under this Act to decide on the matter, discovered him to be a convicted felon, guilty of gross incompetence in his practice; guilty of fraud or deceit in obtaining registration; violating a provision of this Act; aiding or abetting any person in the violation of a provision of this Act or declared insane. In addition, the Board shall publish the name of an engineer whose registration is cancelled or suspended as soon as practicable after cancellation or suspension in the Gazette. In the event that an engineer’s registration with the Board is cancelled or suspended, the Board may reinstate the registration of a person only after six months would have expired after cancellation or suspension. As it relates to complaints made against engineers, the Bill allows for an aggrieved person to submit to the Board a complaint setting out the alleged facts and arguments in support in writing. To hear these complaints, the Board has the power to appoint a Disciplinary Committee comprised of three or more engineers who shall
order such engineer to pay costs in relation to any hearing before the Disciplinary Committee. Speaking on engineers being held accountable for slapdash work, particularly in the execution of government projects, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson had told this newspaper last year that proposals have already been accepted from various
stakeholders regarding the improvement of the old legislations. He said firmly that the shoddy work which was once accepted in the past by engineers will not be encouraged under his tenure. Patterson had acknowledged receiving submissions from the GAPE and stressed that he is determined to return a sense of transparency to the field.
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Bees empty Skeldon Primary School A swarm of Africanised bees forced students of Skeldon Primary to abandon classes yesterday.
Teachers and pupils of Skeldon Primary School were forced to drop everything and rush out of the building after it was invaded by Africanised bees on Monday. According to reports, around 10:30 hrs, the children were engaged in games during the recess period when they were attacked by the insects in the compound. The bees swarmed the pupils and stung about a dozen of them. Two received multiple stings about their bodies. Head teacher, Dollice Johnson, became aware of the attack and alerted the other teachers. They immediately exited the building and compound for safety on the roadside. The pupils that were stung by the bees were taken to the Skeldon Hospital where they received medical attention. They were kept for observations and were later sent home. Ms Johnson said, “I am well pleased with the support I got from my teachers, the PTA president and even the Mayor of Corriverton. They assisted with the evacuation
The students outside the school. process and sought medical attention for the pupils.” However she was unable to say where the bees emerged from. Region Six Education
Officer, Volika Jaikishun, said that as soon as she became aware of the “bees attack” she quickly sent beekeepers to the location. Kaieteur News
understands that there was a previous attack at the school some years back. Teachers and pupils will be informed when it is safe for them to return to school.
Father of 3 buckles after wife leaves home Medical reports have confirmed that a West Berbice father of three, died after ingesting an agro chemical. Chaitram Mackhan, 51, of Plantation Ross, West Coast Berbice, is believed to have committed suicide as a result of domestic problems. According to Mackhan’s sister, his wife of 13 years, moved out of the matrimonial home about two
months ago taking with her their three children aged 13, 10 and seven, and her brother has been distraught since then. The sister related that she decided to spend some time with her brother, and had been in the home with him for the past two weeks. She said that when she left home for church on Friday evening her brother seemed quite relaxed. She did
not return to the home Friday night. When she returned on Saturday morning she was quite shocked to discover her brother lying under the house near to a bottle which would have contained an agro chemical. From all appearance Mackhan was already dead when she arrived. The body was subsequently removed to the mortuary, and post mortem was done on Wednesday April 5. Chaitram is reported to have spent some time working in Antigua, and would have
come home regularly to spend time with his family. However, when he came to Guyana in December last, he announced that he was not returning to Antigua. He took to gardening and operating his minibus to support his family. After his wife left the home, Mackhan became very troubled. He had someone operate the bus. Relative and friends are reported to have tried to console Chaitram, as did a pastor. Chaitram is survived by his mother, five sisters and one brother.
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Kaieteur News
MARAD grounds, Crawood Creek suspends boat operator murder PI nears end …after passengers seen sitting on roof
Passengers on the roof of the boat as it plies the Essequibo River (Gordon Moseley photo). The Maritime Administration Department has announced that it has grounded and suspended the operations of a speedboat that was plying the Parika/ Bartica route over inappropriate operations. The move came after a photograph s u r f a c e d o n social media with passengers on the roof of the boat as it traversed the Essequibo River. None of the passengers was wearing life jackets and the inside of the boat also appeared to be
overloaded. The photograph set off a firestorm of criticism after it was shared on the Facebook page of News Source Editor, Gordon Moseley. In a letter to Mr. Moseley, the Director General of Maritime Affairs thanked the journalist for bringing the problem to the attention of the Department and also informed of the actions taken. Additionally, the Maritime Department said it wants members of the general public
to report any unscrupulous activity on the waterways to the Administration on telephone numbers 2257330 or 226-3356. Over the years, there have been growing complaints about speedboat operators overloading their boats and charging extra money during peak periods. The Maritime Department has been pushing more monitoring of the waterways over the years, especially when passenger vessels are involved.
Harinarine Lakhan was the watchman on duty at the sawmill the night, Berbice businessman, Shameer Ali Mursalin was allegedly murdered in his own front yard. The sawmill is located next door to Mursalin’s home at Crabwood Creek, Corentyne. Shameer Ali-Mursalin, called ‘Kazo,’ a trader, of Grant 1805 Weld Tank Dam, Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, was fatally shot on October 24, 2015. Mursalin’s former business partner, Dennis Veersammy, called ‘Diggles ‘and two of his employees, Basheer Harrinauth and Delroy Fraser, are before the court for the murder. They are facing a preliminary inquiry (PI) before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh at the Magistrate’s Court at Springlands, East Berbice, Corentyne. The matter is presented by police Prosecutor Bernard Brown. Yesterday, Lakhan told the court that he recalled hearing firecrackers that night. The witness said that he believed the sound was coming from Bar – be- cue at
the sea dam. He said that the following morning he learnt of the killing and gave a statement to the police. “Da is all me know about the matter,” the man stated briefly. Police Detective Inspector Suraj Singh underwent cross-examination in which he maintained that the police obtained written and oral statements from the three accused in the matter. Under questioning by Attorney Chandra Sohan, the witness reaffirmed that the men were cautioned before the statements were taken. Inspector Singh further said the men made no request for their relatives, attorney or any other person to be present during the taking of the statement. He acknowledged however that they did tell investigators that they could not read or write. The policeman had earlier testified to acquiring oral and written confession from the accused in the matter The witness also faced questions from Harrinauth and Fraser. Both men are
Shameer Ali-Mursalin, called ‘Kazo,’ unrepresented by legal counsel. The two accused suggested that the witness has been lying to the court about the confession statements. “Me neva give you no statement, Fraser repeatedly suggested. But the policeman constantly denied the suggestions. The detective is among the last witnesses to take the stand in the Pl. At least one more person will take the stand. The matter is scheduled to continue on April 13.
Tips for making it into the... From page 25 order to sell it. SUBMIT TO THE CORRECTAGENCIES Investigate which agencies book your type and don't waste time submitting to agencies that don't book it. If you're a petite, see which agencies actually have that division and so on. It's a waste of postage and time to just send your materials off to everyone. BE REACHABLE You must have a cell phone and answer it! Often projects come in at the last minute. Agencies must be able to get a hold of you! When these last minute jobs come in, most booking agents will reach for the people they can get a hold of. Many talent in the agency have a reputation for being hard to reach. I can promise you this. . . when a client is
calling at 5:30pm for a booking the next morning, a booking agent is not going to waste time trying to connect with people that don't normally call back within a few minutes. Instead, they call the folks that are usually available plus actually answer their phones. FOLLOW UP! Many potential models walk into agencies with material that is not quite marketable as they are. But, if the agency has a real interest in them, they will give them invaluable feedback and suggestions then ask them to follow up. You would be shocked at the percentage of models and talent that do not do so. If a booking agent has taken the extra few minutes to help groom you with your craft then I believe there may be
something there. Follow up; they are often too busy to chase after you. DON'TARGUE,ACCEPT CRITICISM! It takes a certain type of person to handle this business. You need a strong sense of self to handle criticism. Admittedly, agents can have a harsh tongue. You can talk to 10 agents and get 10 different opinions. Listen to the information given and keep the stuff that makes sense. Don't begin jumping through hoops after one agency makes a suggestion. If you start to hear the same comment from several agencies, then you know that you need to act on it. Don't take criticism to heart. It's part of the business and the learning process in ANY career. Don't argue with agents, try to change their minds or put them on the defense. If an agent passes on you, don't question them. Simply thank them for their time, swallow hard and move on to the next appointment. There are plenty more opportunities out there. Go find them! PRACTICE Prepare for your interview if you get one. Practice your photo face in front of a mirror, practice your walk and flick through magazines to get some idea of how models pose.
Friday April 07, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Lawyer held in contempt, fined after clashing with magistrate
Region Five Exposition and Trade Fair set for next weekend
Prominent lawyer and former Senior Magistrate Chandra Sohan and his team of lawyers are in the process of taking legal action against Magistrate Marissa Mittelholzer for wrongful imprisonment and other infractions. The situation came about after the lawyer was cited on Tuesday for contempt of court by Mittelholzer. The Magistrate also ordered that the lawyer be detained by the police in court. The lawyer was then detained for over an hour and a half in the courtroom until he sought legal representation. He was subsequently told that he was fined $4, 875. There was no trial and no reason given for the fine. According to Sohan he was in the Albion Magistrate’s Court making submission on behalf of one of his clients. He stated that he was constantly being interrupted by Magistrate Mittelholzer. Sohan stated that he asked the Magistrate if he could be allowed to make his submission and when the time comes, the Prosecution will make theirs. However his plea was to no avail. He subsequently told the Magistrate that “You are getting involved in the area where you do not belong. If the court continues like this, you don’t need me anymore.” He then told the Magistrate that he would like to seek leave to withdraw his appearance in the matter and asked his client to find a new lawyer. He then said that the court was acting in a biased manner. Sohan stated that the Magistrate told him that he has to apologize. He said that he asked the Magistrate why he should apologize, since he saw no reason to so do..
The much anticipated Region Five (Mahaica/ Berbice) Exposition and Fair, has been set to commence from April 15 at the Bath Settlement Community Centre Ground. The two-day event is part of the West Berbice Chamber of Industry and Commerce drive to promote commerce and trade within the region. The event will showcase the Region’s diversity with the hopes of attracting potential investors to the Region. The event will be hosted under the theme “Building a Diversified Economy”. The Exposition and Trade Fair is expected to attract public and private sectors business, Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and other organisations that will exhibit their products and services. The usual vending, children games and entertainment including live bands and fireworks will also be present at the event. The Chamber stated yesterday that it is delighted to have been part of this initiative since it believes that the investment represents development to the Region and will go a far way on improving and exposing businesses within the region to additional markets near and far. “The Chamber welcomes the undertaking and businesses are encouraged to book their booths early. The Chamber will continue to support the development of communities within which it serves.” President David Granger will be delivering the opening address at the expo. Patrons can enjoy live bands with musical entertainment from Crown Vibes Sounds Company, Shakti Strings Orchestra and King Murphy One Man Orchestra alongside the Guyana 2016
Attorney at law, Chandra Sohan He was then told by the Magistrate that he is in contempt. She ordered the police not to allow him to leave the court. She then went into her chambers while he remained seated on the bench. He subsequently sought legal representation and two lawyers, Ramesh Rajkumar and Ryan Crawford, arrived in court to make representation on his behalf. Attorney at law Rajkumar apologized on behalf of Sohan. According to Sohan, the Magistrate then announced that he has been fined without conducting a trial or stating what he was charged with or being fined for. He noted that he was wrongfully imprisoned by the Magistrate and not allowed to do his job. The Magistrate acted outside her authority since she doesn’t have the authority to hold him in contempt of court or imprison him. Sohan has since contacted a number of lawyers including Sanjeev Dattadin, and is preparing to file legal action against the Magistrate. The matter is also to be taken up with other authorities.
Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, along with exhibitors at the event last year.
A section of the crowd at last year’s expo and fair. Chutney King. Booth spots under the main exposition auditorium with sizes 10 feet by eight feet are available for $20,000. In addition, spots are available around the venue for larger companies that are
desirous of establishing their own external booths. Admission to the event is $500 for adults and $200 for children. The Expo will open from 16.00 hours daily and close midnight. Interested partners and
sponsors are asked to come on board. For more information, contact 592-3287977, 612-1944, and 611-005 5or email wbcic2015@gmail.com or any member of the West Berbice Chamber.
“Duckman” to face judge and jury on attempted murder charge A man who has been described as a nuisance by the authorities has been committed to stand trial in the next sitting of the Berbice Criminal court on a charge of attempted murder. Michael Embrack, called “Duckman” or “+Mike,” 31, of Fort Ordnance Housing Scheme, East Canje, Berbice, was on trial before Magistrate Alex Moore in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s
Court. He is accused of on Wednesday July 29, 2015, at Lot 54 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, unlawfully and maliciously wounding Gordon Gomes called “Redman” with intent to commit murder. Embrack who was in the company of two others allegedly had in his possession one Smith and Wesson .40 Pistol, and six live
rounds. On the day in question, Embrack and two others entered the dwelling place of Gomes. According to the prosecution, Gomes lived with his wife, Janice La Rose, and two daughters, Kyrandra Gomes and Kacya Gomes, in a one-flat concrete house a short distance from the Coast Guard base in Stanleytown, New Amsterdam
The family was at home when the house was invaded by three masked men, one of whom was Embrack. The Intruders attacked and held the household at gunpoint while demanding money and jewelry. Gordon Gomes who was in another part of the house, observed what was happening and started to shout for thief, alerting the Coast Guards.
Embrack dealt him a chop to the left side of his head then put his gun at Gomes and pulled the trigger. However the gun snapped. Upon seeing that, two of the bandits ran out of the house and made good their escape. One of the children also ran out of the house towards the Coast Guard base and informed the ranks of what was happening. Embrack ,
while running down the stairway was pelted with a cutlass, which hit him on his right foot, causing him to fall to the ground. By then some members of the Coast Guard had arrived and managed to arrest him. He was found with the gun and ammunition. Embrack was freed of the charges of robbery under arms and possession of arms and ammunition.
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Kaieteur News
Friday April 07, 2017
Friday April 07, 2017
PAGE 29
Kaieteur News
Venezuelan opposition, security Antigua and Barbuda objects forces clash in anti-Maduro protests to being named as tax haven ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – The Antigua and Barbuda government Wednesday formally launched “strong objections” with the State of Illinois in the United States which has introduced legislation listing the island and 10 other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries as tax havens. In letters to Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Illinois General Assembly, Michael Madigan and House Representative Leader, Jim Durkin, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to
the United States Sir Ronald Sanders said that the listing is a matter that needs immediate corrective attention as it poses severe threats to Antigua and Barbuda’s economy and the well-being of its people. In his letters, Sir Ronald provided evidence substantiating that Antigua and Barbuda is not a tax haven including a February 2014 declaration by the Financial Action Task Force, on whose decision-making councils the Government of the United States sits, that the island was
fully compliant and cooperative with the international standards that it has established. Sir Ronald further noted that on the international level, Antigua and Barbuda last year became a signatory to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Common Reporting Standard under which the island is legally bound to report on bank accounts and other assets held in Antigua and Barbuda, to the tax authorities of the originating country.
CCJ upholds Barbados Court of Appeal ruling in murder case Police use a water cannon to disperse demonstrators during an opposition rally in Caracas, Venezuela yesterday. REUTERS/Carlos Garcia Rawlins (Reuters) Venezuelan opposition protesters and security officers clashed yesterday as the country’s fragmented opposition gained new impetus against a socialist government it blames for the country’s social and economic collapse. The demonstrations were sparked by Supreme Court action last week to assume control of the country’s opposition-led congress in what demonstrators said was a lurch toward dictatorship. While the widely condemned decision was quickly overturned, the opposition has stepped up street protests against President Nicolas Maduro, despite such demonstrations having achieved little in the past. Thousands of people blocked a main Caracas highway yesterday, chanting “Out with Maduro!” and “No more dictatorship!” and vowed to march to the office of the state ombudsman, the government’s principal human rights advocate. “The human rights advocate has to stop being the Socialist Party advocate!” opposition leader Henrique Capriles said in an online broadcast as he marched wearing a hat in the Venezuelan colors of yellow, red, and blue. Security forces blocked the march, sparking clashes with dozens of masked youths in a scene repeated over and over again in the past 15 years in volatile Venezuela. Protesters threw stones
and petrol bombs while security officials fired tear gas and dispersed the crowds by midafternoon. Demonstrators said they were more committed than ever and would take to the streets again. On Monday, Maduro said public sector employees would have all of next week off, sparking criticism that he was trying to defuse street protests. “This is a pivotal moment for Venezuela’s future,” said Jose Miguel Rodriguez, a 22 year-old student marching in Caracas. “I see more bravery in the streets. People are more determined. We have to make more sacrifices. It’s time to defend democracy and freedom.” The opposition is demanding the removal of seven Supreme Court justices who signed last week’s decision. Maduro critics accuse the government of stalling elections for state governors, which polls suggest would not go well for the ruling Socialists. TENSIONS FLARE Venezuela is suffering from triple-digit inflation, shortages of basic foods and medicines, and one of the world’s highest murder rates. Maduro’s government has said that a U.S.-backed business elite is responsible for Venezuela’s economic downturn and that it is trying to foment a coup to impose right-wing rule. His supporters also rallied in Caracas on Thursday.
“Mr. Capriles, you’re trying to ignite the country,” Socialist Party official Freddy Bernal said during the government rally. “You’re looking for deaths. Don’t then come like a sissy saying that you’re a political prisoner. Don’t then come crying that you’re being persecuted.” Tensions have been simmering after tear gas and rocks flew between protesters and security forces during a major demonstration on Tuesday. The confrontations injured 20 people and led to 18 arrests, according to the Caracas-based Penal Forum rights group. Not since 2014’s major unrest has the opposition held such sustained demonstrations, despite protester fatigue, fear of violence, and the necessity for so many Venezuelans to spend much of their day looking for food. The opposition has said it faces increasing persecution. The leader of one of its parties, Copei, sought refuge in the home of the Chilean ambassador in Caracas on Wednesday, according to Chile’s foreign ministry. Opposition protesters have said their demonstrations are being stymied by authorities closing subway stations and adding checkpoints on major highways. “They can do whatever they want, but the people of Venezuela will today make their voices heard on the streets,” tweeted opposition lawmaker Juan Requesens, who has led protests this week.
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — The Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) yesterday upheld the decision of the Barbados Court of Appeal and dismissed a plea of self-defence by Troy Stanford in the 2008 murder of mini-bus conductor. In its ruling, the CCJ, which is the island’s final court, also dismissed the notion that the trial judge failed to direct the jury on the issue of self-defence based on the evidence presented. “Where self-defence is in issue, the state of mind of the accused is important. The accused is in those circumstances always best placed to assist the jury as to whether he was acting in selfdefence. We recognise however that the accused has no obligation to provide that assistance and his failure to do so cannot be held against him. “But if, as in this case, the accused gives no evidence whatsoever of self-defence, electing to give evidence entirely and thus rely com-
pletely on the defence of accident) and if there is no material in his statements from which it can reasonably be inferred that he was or may have been acting in defence of himself or someone else, then the judge must examine the remainder of the evidence to see whether the issue of self-defence reasonably arises,” the CCJ ruled. Stanford had been accused of murdering Matthew Joseph on June 15, 2008, following an altercation. The trial judge had directed the jury on the defences of “accident” and “provocation”. Stanford, who pleaded not guilty when his trial began in 2011, was convicted of manslaughter and appealed to the Court of Appeal of Barbados. He argued that there was sufficient evidence to direct the jury on “self-defence” and the trial judge had failed to do so. The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal and held that the trial judge was right not to have directed the jury on self-defence.
In their arguments before the CCJ, Stanford’ attorneys Larry A C Smith and Safiya A Moore, said that the trial judge had an obligation to direct the jury on any defence which arose on the evidence of the matter, which he purports includes that of selfdefence. But the five-panel CCJ judges noted that the law required an act of self-defence to be “the deliberate yet reasonable result of an accused’s honest belief that he or another person was under imminent attack”. The CCJ ruled that Stanford’s decision to shoot Joseph was neither prompted by fear of an attack on himself nor was it reasonable in the circumstances. The CCJ also advised that the issue of defences is to be best answered by the trial judge who has heard the evidence, and determining whether there is evidence sufficiently strong to raise a bona fide case of self-defence. The State was represented by attorneys Alliston Seale and Oliver Thomas.
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WANTED Female worker wanted sound secondary education, computer literate-Tel: 6225518
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana p assport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 6267040; 265-4535.
Friday April 07, 2017
Kaieteur News
EDUCATIONAL Kids Easter Computer Classes (2 weeks program) $4,000, Diploma in computers, Computerize Accounting @ Micrographics, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 264-3057 French Classes: 276B Peter Rose Street, Monday-Friday open from 1-5pm, www.alliancefrancaiseguyana. com. Tel: 226-1882
We are buying WamaraTonka Bean Logs, cash down as document ready. Call:6645150
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 6471773/660-5257
Two years experienced salesgirl @ Christine Variety, Lombard Street. Call: 227-8529
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.
1 Arc Welder with knowledge of Grill Work. Call: 227-4243 One male or female to look after layer birds in Interior. Call: 668-6421
Fibre-Tech 220 9192/6907. Fiberglass, Resin materials in any quantity all for your repairs.
Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigration Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496/ 662-6045
One female domestic worker to work in Trinidad. between ages of 25-35. Call 1868- 6831528
One Ford Van E350, one Toyota Tundra, One Caterpillar back hoe 4x4, one bobcat Tel: 660-2212
Live in waitress to work in a bar- Call: 604-6606;692-4646
Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc. Call:225-9032;647-2943;604-5198
Eagle’s: Re-gas -$8,000, Washing machine repairs, Gas Stove, Plasma flat Screen computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/646-0966 Floor sanding & Lacquering, house plans, estimate & painting, boat for Santa Mission. Call: 650-4362 Reupholstery for all furniture at a price you can afford, home service if possible. Call:612-0422/ 682-8718/2162230 Computer repairs, cellphone unlocking, website building, data recovery, visa application. Call: 227-7556/ 615-8734 (we also buy computer parts) PEN PAL Indian Male seeks female age 27/34 write to M.D 7475 Goreway DR #47Mississauga on L4T 3T3, Canada.
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP REATES,SPECIALOFFERS FOR THE SEASON. CALL: 690-6494
VEHICLE FOR SALE 1-Leyland DAF GRR Series; excellent condition. Call: 6804101 Allion, Primo, Fielder Wagon, Spacio, Bluebird, 212 Carina, NZE, Honda CRV, Toyota IST, RZ & Pit-bull – Call: 650-7501 Toyota Raum, PLL Series, Rims, Alarm. Call: 666-7439/ 628-1450 Toyota Vigo pickup -$3.5M and Nissan Pathfinder Jeep $1.5M negotiable. Call: 6097766/ 225-8427 (must be sold) Toyota Avensis, 17" rims, excellent condition -$2.3M. Call: 681-8982 RZ minibus -$700,000. Call: 697-2550, 613-1810 HEALTH Dietitians Clinic: nutrition guidance for diabetic, obese, high cholesterol, cancer, renal, pregnant patients and more. Call: 231-9335/ 699-7083
We pay USD for residential house lots, East Bank gets priority. Call Duncan : 6774092 Welder/Fabricator. (Must have at least 3 years’ experience). Apply with written application: Technical Services Inc, 18-23 Eccles. Corilla Bush (Dried) & Lemon Grass in large quantities. Call: 665-1397 Two female domestic to work at Andre Mineral Trade, 75 Church Street (40yrs and older). Call: 657-6009 One waitress to work at a bar. Please call: 647-2622 One experienced hairdresser/ cosmetologist preferable on the East Bank. Call: 645-3010 Investors for Tilapia Farm, double your investment within two years US $1,000 or multiles desired. Call: 2256485/ 665-3622/610-5437
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 677-7827, 6435122 ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL: PICKUP, 9-11 SEAT MIN BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPOTR & FAMILY OUTING, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807
Males between 25-45yrs to work as operator @ Ice Factory in Rosignol. Call: 6183800 between 8am-5pm.
1 Double twin steer Atkinson Truck. Call: 684-2708 Complete game shop equipment. Call Leon: 2318424 or 610-0808 Miller welder 225 Amps, Honda Generator 6500 Watts Honda Civic – Contact: 6390866 Design & Make Aluminum windows, doors, stainless rails, showcases, rolling shutters, make & install automatic doors. Call: 2336818/677-5599/659-9999 Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, video games & repairs – Call: 672-2566; 265-3231 1 Diesel Welder, 1 Generator. Call: 627-7835
Tuschen: 2 storey building, 2031 ft2 - $9.8M Negotiable. Tel: 231-9690 (During working hrs). Parfaite Harmonie: 2 storey building, 1245 ft2 - $9M Negotiable. Tel: 231-9690 (During working hrs).
VACANCY Cook/Baker and Kitchen Assistant for interior location. Applicants must be experienced, for details call: 618-2020 Outdoor Salesman/Driver, Salesgirls, general domestic. Apply at R.Sookraj & Son’s, 108 Regent Street Georgetown. Looking for experienced all round IT specialist. Send CV t o jobs@expresstruckingcorp.com or call 227-6025. Wood mizer & moulder operator, timber grant manager at least 5yrs experienced. Call: 609-7675/ 674-1705/ 233-2614
Tain, Corentyne: 2 storey building 3309 ft2 - $8M Negotiable. Tel: 231-9690 (During working hours).
Office Clerk (senior/junior) with CXC English/ Mathematics, computer knowledge an asset. Call: 223-7500
2 Storey house 35X45 3 bedrooms, 1 self-contained @ 5th Avenue Diamond, H/ Scheme. Call:677-0583/6645052
Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic –Call: 223-7500. Monday-Saturday 8:154:15pm
Newly built @ Craig E.B.D land 91X50, house 40X28, 3 rooms, 1 self-contained$23M. Call: 718-213-6496/ 617-7691 Covent Garden E.B.D, land 120X40, house 60X26, 4 bedrooms (1 self-contained), kitchen, cupboard, concrete yard & fence. Call: 612-4722/ 675-9093 Lot 4 Public Road/Line Dam Section E, Hopetown, West Coast Berbice. Contact # 6807600, 696-8174 Serious Inquiries only. One Roadside, 2 storey building @ V/Hoop (ideally business/residence). Call: 614-0107 1-2 Storey building 3 bedrooms upstairs, 2 apartments downstairs, all self-contained @ avenue B Diamond, E.B.D- Call: 6585452
Welder: apply in person to Alabama Trading G/town Ferry Stelling. Experienced female Accounts Clerk, Apply in person with hand written application to Alabama Trading 65-66 Robb Street Bourda Accounts Clerk for Eccles, Industrial Site area knowledge of NIS, PAYE,VAT, Quickbooks. Call: 614-4358 Exist for Cashiers/ Salesgirls, apply with written application at Nirva Supermarket, 49 Sheriff & Craig Streets. Call: 227-5771 Trainee A.C, Refrigerator, Technician –Call: 231-0655 Room attendant, male security age 30-55, 233 South Road, Lacytown. Call: 225-0198
Mitsubishi Canter Truck, GMM, price negotiable. Call: 698-5604 Mobile wheelchair, excellent condition, new batteries and charger, wide-width, cheap. Call: 626-6335 Folders 1" black soft cover & spiral notebooks by Maritha Stewart, cheap. Call: 626-6335 Doberman pup. Tel: 619-6086/ 699-7077 MASSAGE
TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 House & Land available for sale. Contact Pacific Development Inc @ Lot 3 Church Street, G/Town. Call: 223-6035/227-8274
Contract hire car to work @ GR Taxi. Contact Ganesh: 6146202 Straight stitch/over edge machine operators/labourer. Call: 222-2541 8:00am-4:00pm (Mon-Fri)
PROPERTY FOR SALE 2 bedroom luxury house at madewini villas, open plan kitchen & garage. Price negotiable. call 647-1773.
The Gent’s Spa: Massage done by Tiffany, mobile services. Book appointment now! Call: 677-5465
TOURS Rodeo, Lethem Rodeo, Brazil, Falls and sightseeing, April 13- 17th. Call: 665-5171, 639-2663, 2237589,658-3758,673-2348 Somaru’s Tavel Service, best rates around Georgetown, local tours, hotel accommodation, etc. Call Vee: 670-1162/223-4187/ 616-2727
TO LET 4 AC Rooms/2 large hall with 1 extra room, suitable for business/ offices @ 21 Seaforth St. Campbellville, Georgetown. Call: 226-4877, 624-7436, 654-9350 For factory or bond, Eccles Industrial Site E.B.D. Call: 609-7675/674-1705/ 233-2614 3 Bedrooms fully furnished upper flat size 38X40ft -$160,000 monthly. Call: 644-5151 Continued on page 31
Friday April 07, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Unkempt conditions abound Sussex Street drug bond By Abena RockcliffeCampbell As if the very agreement governing the use of the Sussex Street drug bond was not enough to cast a dark cloud over the facility, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has added to the problem. The drug bond is being shared by GPHC and the Diamond Materials Management Unit (MMU). But one would hardly believe they are in the same building when viewing the areas maintained by the MMU in comparison to those maintained by the GPHC—the difference is vast. While there were a few empty shelves, the parts of the building maintained by the MMU were tidy; boxes were neatly packed and supplies were categorized. But, the parts maintained by the GPHC suffer a different fate. Different kinds of drugs were packed together, boxes were just dumped in the middle of the facility, and rotten pallets were packed in the corner. Ironically, all this happens under the watchful eye of a bold sign instructing “Keep this area clean and tidy at all time.” The media was able to view this reality yesterday as the Ministry of Public Health opened the facility for a tour. The tour was facilitated by the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Public Health, Terrence Esseboom, an d Warehouse Manager for the Diamond Medical Supplies and Drugs Bond, Silhouette Craig. Esseboom said that the purpose of the activity was to let the public know that the bond is being utilized. He noted that media houses were constant in their calls for a tour of the bond. “It is just an opportunity for people to judge for themselves rather than the ministry putting out and releasing something for you… Judge for yourself and see whether the bond is being utilized for the purpose in which it is rented and to judge how things are now, to how it was then.” Wa r e h o u s e M a n a g e r for the Diamond Bond, Silhouette Craig, said supplies are being stored at the Sussex Street bond because Diamond is full to capacity. Craig said that thorough checks are made when medical supplies arrive at the bond to ensure that the correct supplies are delivered and in the correct amounts but nothing is dispatched from that bond to any
Empty shelves while boxes are packed on the floor
From page 30
LAND FOR SALE 1 Transported land in Tuschen Phase 1 -$2M, Tuschen Phase 2 - $1.4M, La ParfaiteHarmonie (main road) -$2M, La ParfaiteHarmonie $1.4M. Call: 642-1252
Warehouse Manager of Diamond Bond, Silhouette Craig medical facility. She said that when Diamond supplies diminish, those stored at Sussex Street are transferred. “We receive (medical supplies) here, however, we do not do dispatches here. We replenish supplies for the Diamond bond Materials Management Unit from here so we do storage here.” Craig added, “We have security and would come here very often during the course of the week to check on the supplies, check on the temperature and so forth.” She said that the MMU stores supplies at the upper flat of the bond and a quarter of the lower flat where the cold chain area is set up. “Space has been a problem at Diamond for quite some time now. We were using Kingston bond but there does not have the temperature to store certain supplies,” said Craig. She said that the bond currently stores condoms, lubricants, insulin, Omeprazole tablets, Trifluoperazine tablets, Metronidazole injections, Chlorophan Expectorant and other medical supplies. Craig was unable to say if the bond has yet been approved by the Food and Drugs Department but said that there have been no reports of spoilt drugs being stored at that facility. Asked about the untidiness of the space maintained by GPHC, Craig said that she has no jurisdiction there. She noted that on several occasion her staff members mentioned the state of the facility but she instructed them not to interfere because, “I do not want anything to go missing and we get blamed; we focus on what we are responsible for and we try to maintain
Part of the building utilized by the MMU
Diamond Scheme ( 2 nd Avenue), Eccles Scheme (middle) negotiable. Call: 6097766/225-8427 (must be sold) Eccles New Scheme (110X50ft) concrete fence& bridge, land filled (deal) $7M. Call: 684-5822/ 611-7223 Eccles $7.5M, Providence $5M, Farm -$3M, Uitvlugt $2.8M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.6M, Bartica -$3M. Call: 233-3006/ 658-5897/651-1969
FOR RENT
it at best.” Public H e a l t h ’s Esseboom echoed that GPHC is an autonomous agency. “We have no direct jurisdiction…Maybe we can get GPHC PRO to give explanation but to say it is mismanaged that is a judgment call I cannot make.” Esseboom even supposed that maybe it is not how the bond is kept, regularly. “I do not know how busy down here is, it could have been like this because they had a lot of activities into the night last night.” He continued, “In any enterprise things can improve, things can get better and if the media spotlights something I am sure that the ministry and the GPHC will listen to the critique and improve things. I mean that is how we get progress,” In the 2017 National Budget, a total of $180M was budgeted for the purpose of renting the bond. A three-year contract has been signed for use of the facility owned by the Linden Holdings Company. However, a Cabinet subcommittee has been created to review the bond contract. There has been no update on the work of that committee.
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Lot 14 Croal & Longden Street: 4 Storey building (infront Demico). Call: 663-1876 Apartment for rent – 1 bottom flat 3 bedrooms at Lamaha Gardens. Call: 2258084, 689-6001 One bedroom apartment well secured for working couple $35,000 monthly, light water and garbage included. Call: 638-8858 Two bedroom upper flat located at 261 Golden Grove, Tank Street (3rd corner). Call: 233-5802/600-4984/641-1476 Upper flat 2 bedrooms apartment in Eccles. Call: 2332082/ 663-1109 2 Bedroom Executive furnished Apartment in residential Area, close to Ogle Airport with all modern amenities.Call:622-5725/ 664-1070 TO LET 3 Bedroom upper flat at 143 Pike Street. Call: 234-0733 Fully furnished vacation home with all amenities Call during working hours 227-1218
(Shelves utilized by GPHC) various supplies lumped together, an empty pan and a damaged container
One spacious 3 bedroom lower flat at Mon Repos, E.C.D -$48,000 monthly (water included). Call: 6452395/ 629-5300
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Trump says ‘something should happen’ with Assad, U.S. military studies options
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad (Reuters) U.S. President Donald Trump said yesterday that “something should happen” with President Bashar al-Assad after a deadly poison gas attack in Syria, as the Pentagon and the White House studied military options. Facing his biggest foreign crisis since taking office in January, Trump suggested he may be taking a stronger stance against Assad, an ally of Iran and Russia, whose country has been torn apart by six years of civil war. “I think what Assad did
is terrible,” Trump told reporters traveling with him on Air Force One en route to Florida. “I think what happened in Syria is a disgrace to humanity and he’s there, and I guess he’s running things, so something should happen,” Trump said, stopping short of calling on Assad to leave office. The poison gas attack on Tuesday in the rebel-held northern Syrian town of Khan Sheikhoun killed at least 70 people, many of them children. Washington has blamed
the attack on the Syrian government, putting it at odds with Russia, which has air and ground forces in Syria. The Syrian government has denied it was behind the attack. Striking Assad could put the United States on a collision course with Russia, which intervened on the Syrian president’s side in 2015, turning the tide of the conflict against mostly Sunni Muslim rebel groups in his favor. Trump has until now focused his Syria policy almost exclusively on defeating Islamic State militants in northern Syria, where U.S. special forces are supporting Arab and Kurdish armed groups. Only last week, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said the U.S. diplomatic policy on Syria for now was no longer focused on making Assad leave power, one of former President Barack Obama’s aims. Trump said on Wednesday the gas attack in Idlib province, which angered people around the world, had caused him to think again about Assad.
Mexico urges respect from U.S. for 2018 presidential election (Reuters) U.S. officials should be respectful of the Mexican 2018 presidential election, Mexico’s foreign minister said yesterday, after a top U.S. security official suggested a win by a leftist candidate would be bad for both nations. Speaking with senators on Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly agreed with Republican Senator John McCain’s view that “if the election were tomorrow in Mexico, you would probably get a left-wing, anti-American president of Mexico. That can’t be good for America.” Kelly, who was speaking at a Senate committee on homeland security and governmental affairs hearing, echoed that viewpoint. “It would not be good for
Friday April 07, 2017
Kaieteur News
America or for Mexico,” he said. Though Kelly and McCain stopped short of naming anyone in particular, their comments were seen in Mexico as a clear swipe at leftist Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, a populist who many see as the frontrunning candidate in the 2018 presidential election. Speaking at a news conference in Washington on Thursday, Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray said he broached the issue with Kelly. “I told him in a respectful but clear manner that the electoral decisions ... correspond to Mexicans alone and that what we expect from the United States is respect toward the Mexican electoral process,” Videgaray said. For his part, Lopez
Obrador rejected the accusation that he was “anti-American.” “Our relationship with the United States will be one of friendship and cooperation, but not one of submission. We are a free and sovereign nation,” he said according to a press release. Regarding the looming renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, Videgary said Mexico would prefer to conclude the talks this year rather than in 2018, when the Mexico’s election takes place. Some view Videgaray, a former finance minister now leading complex trade, security and migration negotiations with the Trump administration, as a possible presidential candidate in 2018 for the ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party.
U.S. and China’s leaders meet as trade, North Korea issues loom
U.S. President Donald Trump welcomes Chinese President Xi Jinping at Mar-a-Lago state in Palm Beach, Florida (REUTERS/Carlos Barria) (Reuters) U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met faceto-face for the first time yesterday, spending some social time together with their wives before digging in to the thorny trade and security issues that bedevil the relationship between the world’s two largest economies. Trump said he wants to raise concerns about China’s trade practices and urge Xi to do more to rein in North Korea’s nuclear ambitions in the talks, though no major deals on either issue were expected. Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, drove down a palmlined driveway past a military honor guard to Trump’s Spanish-style Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, welcomed by Trump and his wife Melania before going inside. The couples posed for pictures sitting on sofas in the resort’s formal living room. They were set to dine in a candle-lit ornate private dining room last evening at a long table set for about 30 people and festooned with red and yellow floral centerpieces. They were expected to get into more detailed discussions about trade and foreign policy issues today, concluding their summit with a working lunch. Trump promised during the 2016 presidential campaign to stop what he called the theft of American jobs by China and rebuild the country’s manufacturing base. Many blue-collar workers helped propel him to his unexpected election victory on Nov. 8 and Trump wants to deliver for them. “We have been treated unfairly and have made terrible trade deals with China for many, many years. That’s one of the things we are going to be talking about,” Trump told reporters travel-
ing with him on Air Force One. Trump, a former real estate magnate, is still finding his footing in the White House and has yet to spell out a strategy for what his advisers called a trade relationship based on “the principle of reciprocity.” He brought his top economic and national advisers to Florida for the meeting, including Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. “Even as we share a desire to work together, the United States does recognize the challenges China can present to American interests,” said Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, also in Florida for the meeting. The dinner comes as Trump and his national security team face a completely different weighty foreign policy issue: how to respond to a deadly poison gas attack in Syria. A U.S. official said the White House and Pentagon were discussing military options. DIFFERING PERSONALITIES Their summit brings together two leaders who could not seem more different: the often stormy Trump, prone to angry tweets, and Xi, outwardly calm, measured and tightly scripted, with no known social media presence. What worries the protocol-conscious Chinese more than policy clashes is the risk that the unpredictable Trump could publicly embarrass Xi, after several foreign leaders experienced awkward moments with the new U.S. president. “Ensuring President Xi does not lose face is a top priority for China,” a Chinese official said.
U.S. labor leaders say Trump needs to take a direct, unambiguous tone in his talks with Xi. “President Trump needs to come away from the meeting with concrete deliverables that will restore production and employment here in the U.S. in those sectors that have been ravaged by China’s predatory and protectionist practices,” said Holly Hart, legislative director for the United Steelworkers union. A U.S. administration official told Reuters that Washington expects to have to use legal tools to fight for U.S. companies, such as pursuing World Trade Organization lawsuits. “I don’t expect a grand bargain on trade. I think what you are going to see is that the president makes very clear to Xi and publicly what we expect on trade,” a U.S. official told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity. Trump has often complained Beijing undervalues its currency to boost trade, but his administration looks unlikely to formally label China as a currency manipulator in the near term - a designation that could come with penalties. NORTH KOREAATEST The most urgent problem facing Trump and Xi is how to persuade nuclear-armed North Korea to halt unpredictable behavior like missile test launches that have heightened tensions in South Korea and Japan. North Korea is working to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of hitting the United States. The White House has said North Korea was a test for the U.S.-China relationship, and Trump has threatened to use trade to try to force China to exert influence over Pyongyang.
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Brazil return to top after... Johnson pulls out of Masters, Fowler... (From page 34) movement throughout the table, as just 19 of the 211 member associations stood steady in their March placings. With five of those 19 within the top ten, Switzerland (9, plus 2) were the only side to break into the top ten, with Uruguay heading in the opposite direction (15,
minus 6). Poland (11, plus 1) built on their best-ever placing last month to go one better – a feat mirrored by Burkina Faso (35, plus 1). Meanwhile, Peru (17, plus 1), Curaçao (70, plus 4), Swaziland (88, plus 10), and Papua New Guinea (156, plus 14) also registered new personal bests. FYR Macedonia (133, plus
33) were the month’s biggest movers, with some strong gains coming within the top 50 too as Sweden (34, plus 11), Northern Ireland (26, plus 9), USA (23, plus 7), Greece (39, plus 7) and Japan (44, plus 7) all gained ground. The next FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking will be published on 4 May 2017.
Holder, Ahmed confident as Brighto... (From page 35) and Alzarri Joseph to restrict their opponents, Pakistanis Asif Zakir, Fahim Ashraf and Mohammad Asghar are yet to done international colours for their country. The game starts at 09:30hrs. West Indies - Jason
Holder (Captain), Devendra Bishoo, Jonathan Carter, Miguel Cummins, Shannon Gabriel, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Ashley Nurse, Kieran Powell, Rovman Powell, Chadwick Walton. Pakistan - Sarfraz Ahmed
(Capt.), Ahmed Shehzad, Kamran Akmal, Babar Azam, Fa k h a r Z a m a n , S h o a i b Malik, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali, Wahab Riaz, Asif Zakir, Fahim Ashraf, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Asghar and Mohammad Hafeez.
James ‘humbled’ to be an inspiration... (From page 33) looked upon with affection. Speaking exclusively to Sportsmail, he said: ‘It’s motivation, but it’s also humbling too, to know that so many kids not only in my hometown, not only in our home state, but all over the United States and all over the world look to me as an inspiration. ’For me to be a role model
to these kids, it means everything. Every day I wake up, there’s three groups. There’s my family, which is my wife and my mom, my mother-inlaw, my father-in-law, my kids, and everyone in my immediate family. ’Then there’s my foundation kids that I have to make sure that I continue to set the right example for. ‘And then
there’s the group of kids that I don’t get to see and talk to every day that look at me as inspiration, look at me sometimes as a father figure, as a super hero, or just like, oh, if LeBron can make it out of the situation he was in, maybe we can as well. ’So it’s very humbling. It’s motivating. I carry that with me every single day.’ On the court this season, the Cavs are top of the Eastern Conference and on their way to retaining their NBA Championship title. Last year, they beat Steph Curry’s Golden State Warriors in the Final to become the first team ever to win an NBA title after being down 3-1. When asked what he and his side need to do moving forward, James said: ‘Continue to improve. Just keep doing what we’ve been doing. ’The coaching staff, they give us a great game plan every night and we’ve got to go out and execute.’ (MailOnline)
Windies tour the... (From page 33) The right-hander boasts an impressive Test record of nearly 5 000 runs at an average of 44 with 10 centuries in 72 matches. Pakistan face West Indies in the opening Test at Sabina Park starting April 21, do battle in the second Test at Kensington Oval beginning April 30 before taking on the hosts in the final game at Windsor Park in Dominica from May 10-14.
(From page 34) shared the early clubhouse lead at one-under 71, while others on the course at oneunder included Americans Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler, and Englishman Justin Rose. Belgian Thomas Pieters made a sparkling start on his Masters debut with five birdies in 10 holes to move three shots clear of the field. But he came to grief at Amen Corner, dropping a shot at the 11th and sending his tee shot into the Rae’s Creek tributary en route to a double-bogey on 12. Three-times Masters champion Phil Mickelson eagled the second hole to huge cheers and picked up another early birdie but the American left-hander dropped three shots to slip back to level par. Most players found scor-
ing difficult in the swirling winds and England’s Danny Willett made an ugly start to the defense of his title, sending a wild tee shot into the trees on the way to a doublebogey six at the first hole. Two former Masters champions endured days to forget, South African Trevor Immelman carding an errorstrewn round of 79 and American Zach Johnson slumping to a 77. Earlier, former Masters champions Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player struck the ceremonial opening tee shots to get the 81st edition of the year’s first major off to a somber start as they honored Arnold Palmer, who died in September at the age of 87. Thousands of golf fans wearing commemorative badges confirming their membership of Arnie’s Army stood to attention during a poignant silence broken only
by the sound of a chilled wind rustling through the trees. Augusta National chairman Billy Payne addressed the crowds before Nicklaus and Player hit their drives without their long-time friend and rival at their side. ”Welcome to the 2017 Masters. It is a wonderful, but in one respect a difficult day,” Payne said. “For the first time in many many decades, someone is obviously missing from the first tee. “The almost unbearable sadness that we all feel by the passing of Arnold Palmer is only surpassed by the love and affection for him.” The bright weather was a relief for organizers, who were forced to call off the Masters Par 3 contest on Wednesday for the first time ever as heavy rain and storms buffeted the course. (Reuters)
Friday April 07,2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Be sure to catch up on overdue correspondence and help those you love find solutions to their dilemmas. Make changes that will heighten your appeal. Try to make arrangements with close friends or relatives to spend a few days away. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You should be trying to clear up legal contracts that have been pending. Recognition can be yours if you present your ideas and stand behind your beliefs. Your ability to work with detail could help you achieve your goals. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your accomplishments could exceed your expectations if you mix a little business with pleasure. CANCER (June 21–July 22) It's time to reconnect with some of the people you used to know. Your ability to put things together will be appreciated by your comrades. Refrain from using the highway as a racetrack. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Don't press your luck with your loved ones. Relationships will be emotional today. Get on with your life. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Get out and about. You can easily wrap up overdue personal legal matters that have caused problems for you. You need to do more things that you enjoy.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Your pilgrimage may end up being fruitless. Don't hesitate to voice your opinions at a group meeting; however, keep your thoughts to yourself at home. You may find that romance will unfold through business connections. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Don't consume more than necessary. Let your lover know what your personal intentions are. Empty promises could be likely where work is concerned. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) You can make money if you're willing to push your ideas on those in a position to support your efforts. Avoid any erratic behavior or it could cause isolation at home. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Try to be honest when dealing with your mate. Gambling will be a waste of time and money. You could come into extra cash. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You might find that coworkers will support your endeavors. You will communicate with ease today. Nagging has never been something that you could tolerate, and it's once again driving you into a lonely state of affairs. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your desire for excitement and adventure may be expensive. Don't let your emotions interfere with moneymaking deals. You will be emotional when dealing with coworkers or employers.
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Kaieteur News
Friday April 07, 2017
Miguel Francis: Great Britain Pacquiao to fight Horn ahead of Khan switch will help fulfill my potential as Ramadan prevents bout with Brit Miguel Francis says he is more likely to fulfil his potential after switching allegiance from Antigua and Barbuda to Great Britain. The 22-year-old, who ran the seventh fastest 200m of 2016, is eligible for Britain as he was born in Montserrat, an Overseas Territory without its own Olympic team. ”I think I’ll be less stressed when in a better environment, where people look after you better,” he told BBC Sport. “I do think I will perform better.” He can compete for Britain immediately. Francis, who is part of a Jamaica-based training group coached by Glenn Mills and led by 100m and 200m world record holder Usain Bolt, ran a personal best of 19.88 seconds in June. Bolt’s record is 19.19, set at the 2009 World Championships. Adam Gemili, 23, competed for Britain in the 200m at Rio 2016 and finished fourth in the final with a time of 20.12. His personal best is 19.97. Francis was due to also compete at last summer’s Olympics, but had to withdraw with a hamstring injury suffered in training. He started the process to transfer his allegiance in
Miguel Francis (right) will run for Great Britain after switching allegiance Antigua and Barbuda. August - before Rio - but appeared unlikely to see it through after announcing an apparent U-turn in March. Then he told the Antigua Observer that “things got into my head” and “Antigua is who I want to run for”, while admitting the condition of the country’s only athletics track was a concern. Now he insists he is more comfortable representing Britain. “I’m running for who I am supposed to be running for,” he added. “Before I moved to Antigua my only option was Britain, but then Antigua wanted me to run for them. I ran for them for my career basically.” Francis’ family fled
Montserrat for Antigua following a volcanic eruption when he was six months old. His parents have lived in Wolverhampton since 2014 and Francis has visited the area several times. Zharnel Hughes - born in the British overseas territory of Anguilla - and the United States-born quartet of Tiffany Porter, Cindy Ofili, Shante Little and Montene Speight have all switched allegiance to Britain in recent years. The switches led to criticism from several other British athletes; including former world indoor 60m champion Richard Kilty. (BBCsport)
James ‘humbled’ to be an inspiration for so many around the world
Cleveland Cavaliers legend James shoots against the Boston Celtics LeBron James says he is humbled to be a role model for kids around the world as he looks to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to Eastern Conference glory
once again. James has been named NBA’s Most Valuable Player on four occasions, and has inspired young people not only in America but around
the world after making his life a success after a poor upbringing. The 32-year-old says it ‘means everything’ to be (Continued on page 32)
Filipino great Manny Pacquiao will defend his WBO welterweight title against unbeaten Australian Jeff Horn in Brisbane in July after a bout with Amir Khan fell through. British star Amir Khan h a d b e e n P a c q u i a o ’s preferred opponent, but that fight could not be arranged because of the timing of Ramadan. Instead the Filipino fighter will take on Horn, local media reported. ’We’re not able to fight Amir Khan because of Ramadan, so we decided to take this fight in the interim,’ Pacquiao’s adviser Michael Koncz said in comments published by News Corp media. ’We signed it, so yeah, we’re excited about it. But again, my preference was to fight Amir Khan. That didn’t work out. We had this on the table so we decided to take it.’ Eight-division world champion Pacquiao agreed to an April fight against Briton Khan in the United Arab Emirates but his
Pacquiao was meant to face Amir Khan, but that has been cancelled due to Ramadan. promoter Bob Arum said last month it had been postponed after the $38 million (30.4m) offer for the bout failed to materialise. The July 2 fight against Horn will be the 38-year-old Pacquiao’s first since his unanimous decision victory for the title over American Jessie Vargas in Las Vegas last November. ‘Manny will train and do the best he can and hopefully we get the fight over with very quickly, we get out of there, we say “hi” to the Australian fans and media and come home,’ Koncz said.
’Frankly and honestly, and nothing against Jeff Horn — I’ve never met the kid, I don’t know him personally — but the name recognition is I guess why the fans picked Amir Khan.’ In February, Philippines senator Pacquiao (59-6-2) asked fans on Twitter who he should fight next in a fourman poll and 48 percent of the respondents voted for Khan. Horn (16-0-1) won seven percent behind Briton Kell Brook (24 percent) and American Terence Crawford (21). (MailOnline)
Windies tour the last for retiring Misbah Lahore, Pakistan, CMC — Pakistan Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq said the upcoming three-match series in the Caribbean would be his swansong in international cricket. “It will be my last series and I had conveyed this to the chairman [of the Pakistan Cricket Board] quite some time ago,” Misbah said while speaking to reporters at the Gaddafi Stadium here yesterday. ”There was no pressure on me. I was planning to quit after the England series in the UAE [two years ago] but there were some things and I had to carry on playing.” Speculation had been rife over Misbah’s future in recent months especially after Pakistan suffered a solid 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Australia Down Under. It was also rumoured that he had come under pressure from the PCB to step down but he pushed back against those suggestions, arguing he had reached the decision on his own. ”Overall it’s fine and not like I am under any pressure or somebody has dictated this to me. I have myself understood that this is it and
Misbah scored eight of his ten Test centuries after gaining Pakistan’s captaincy © Getty Images i t ’s p u r e l y m y o w n decision,” he stressed. “It’s a wrong impression that the board has enforced this as my last series or there’s a patch-up between me and the cricket board. I thought to play against West Indies because it was important for us as we haven’t won against them in their own backyard.” Misbah led Pakistan to the pinncale of the Test format last year when they topped the International Cricket Council rankings and said the achievement remained the “highlight of my career.” All told, Misbah has led the country 53 Tests,
winning 24 losing 18 and drawing 11, since taking over in 2010. And having presided over a 2-1 victory in a three-Test series against the Windies in United Arab Emirates last year, he now sees the upcoming series an the ideal way to lower the curtain on his international career. ”My cricket journey was very good. There were many hardships in my career but for now I am focusing on the present situation,” he said. “The series against West Indies is a good opportunity to bring the team back on the winning track” (Continued on page 32)
Kaieteur News
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GFF Youth Development Programme to be presented at XXXII CONCACAF Ordinary Congress
Wayne Forde The Youth Development Progamme of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will be a key highlight at the XXXII CONCACAF Ordinary Congress in Aruba tomorrow via a formal presentation from the President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Wayne Forde. This presentation is made possible due to the unique design of the programme as a model youth initiative in the Caribbean and on invitation by the FIFA President, Gianni Infantino. Forde, who sits on the F I FA G o v e r n a n c e Committee, said this is a major achievement of the GFF and he is honored for
the opportunity: “I’m honoured to have been given the opportunity to showcase one of the most important components of our development thrust and I believe this is a proud day for Guyana football. This is further evidence that the good work being done by the Executive Committee and the Guyana Football fraternity continues to be recognized and gain prominence within the global fraternity.” One of the key areas of the presentation will be an emphasis on the value of long-term youth league sponsorship while highlighting the significance of the partnerships
established with the GFF’s primary youth league partners – National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO), Scotiabank and Pele Alumni Incorporated respectively. Additionally, the programme is funded by the “One C O N C A C A F ” Development Fund, a programme designed to provide financial assistance to foster the development agenda of Member Associations. A major part of the GFF’s Yo u t h D e v e l o p m e n t Programme is the Academy Training Centres (ACT), a comprehensive initiative which seeks to, among others, create a development pathway for players to the national programme. This is done through individual and group sessions at the various academies within Member Associations. CONCACAF Ordinary Congress will feature global leaders in football including FIFA’s President Infantino and will be held at the Renaissance Hotel in Oranjestad, Aruba. Guyana will be represented at this congress by Mr. Forde and Mr. Dion Inniss, Executive Committee Member.
Johnson pulls out of Masters, Fowler and Spieth among leaders
Friday April 07, 2017
Defeat for Pollard as Mumbai lose opener Steven Smith punches the air after hitting back-to-back sixes for victory off Pollard ©BCCI
Pune, India, CMC West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard produced a cameo but bowled a poor last over as his Mumbai Indians tasted defeat with a seven-wicket loss to Rising Pune Supergiant, in the second game of the new Indian Premier League season here yesterday. Sent in at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, the visitors marched to an impressive 184 for eight off their 20 overs, with Englishman Jos Buttler topscoring with 38 off 19 deliveries at the top of the order and Hardik Pandya chipping in with an unbeaten 35 from 15 deliveries at number eight.
F r e s h f r o m a disappointing series against Pakistan where he scraped just 20 runs from three innings, Pollard showed a glimpse of form with a 17ball 27, which included three fours and a six. Mumbai seemed set to end on a average score when they reached 154 for seven at the end of the 19th over but Pandya smashed a four and four sixes off the final six deliveries from new-ball bowler Ashok Dinda, which cost 30 runs — the most expensive final over in the history of the IPL. South African legspinner Imran Tahir was the best bowler with three for 28. I n r e p l y, A u s t r a l i a
batting star Steve Smith unveiled a magnificent, unbeaten 84 from 54 balls to ensure Rising Pune reached their target with a ball to spare. The right-hander struck seven fours and three sixes in a well-controlled innings, posting 58 for the second wicket with opener Ajinkya Rahane (60) and another 50 for the third wicket with Ben Stokes (21). With 13 runs required from the final over, Pollard conceded just three singles from the first three deliveries to shift the game in Mumbai’s favour. But Smith clobbered the next two deliveries for leg-side sixes to end the game emphatically.
Brazil return to top after seven-year wait Guyana down 8 places to 139
Dustin Johnson of the U.S. talks to members of the media after he pulled out of the tournament. REUTERS/Mike Segar Brazil players © AFP Wo r l d n u m b e r o n e Dustin Johnson pulled out of the U.S. Masters due to a back injury as windy conditions made scoring difficult and ensured a congested first-round leaderboard yesterday. Johnson, the American
favorite to win the title after victories in his last three tournaments, sustained a back injury in a freak accident on Wednesday but he looked comfortable on the driving range and arrived at the first tee in the final group out.
As compatriots Bubba Watson and Jimmy Walker prepared to tee off, however, Johnson suddenly walked back to the Augusta National clubhouse. Americans Russell Henley and Kevin Chappell (Continued on page 32)
Brazil capped off a fine fortnight of football as they moved to the top of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, reclaiming their seat at the top of the podium after a seven-year hiatus. Not since elimination
from 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ at the hands of the Netherlands – being usurped in the table by eventual champions Spain and the Oranje – have A Seleção (plus 1) held the No1 position.
However, recent wins over Uruguay and Paraguay in booking their place at Russia 2018 secured their return to top spot. With 129 games played across the month there was (Continued on page 32)
Kaieteur News
Friday April 07, 2017
Georgetown Grand Prix
Local motor racing most prized property on show tonight; large turnout expected Kristian Jeffrey seen in the lead in one of his races at the inaugural Grand Prix.
By Rawle Welch He is undoubtedly the most prized property in local motor racing, a status gained after dominating both the traditional segment and now karting and Guyana’s Kristian Jeffrey understands that this value should not be taken lightly. He is also quite aware that such a significant distinction the burden of responsibility comes with it and that is why he places a premium on preparations not only physically, but technically as well. Jeffrey has over the past three years developed his craft to such a level that he is arguably the best motor racer in the Caribbean and his astonishing rise to the top is by no means a stroke of luck. His introduction to the sport of motor racing has been methodical, thorough and expensive, but that was the price his father Kevin was willing to pay to take him to the next level and no one could refute the fact that it is paying off. The easy going racing
star will be competing in t o n i g h t ’s G e o rg e t o w n Grand Prix which is being organised by GT Motorsports at the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club and the expectation of more success is high. The two-time Caribbean M o t o r R a c i n g Championship (CMRC) title holder is coming off a terrific performance at last S u n d a y ’s ‘ R a c e o f Champions’ Meet where he won all three of his races so he should be feeling extremely confident of doing well again tonight. Despite the difference in machines and challenges, Jeffrey has been able to make the transition quite smoothly and has extended his dominance to the karts. In the inaugural event in February, Jeffrey swept aside every challenge that came from Trinidad & Tobago in Ravi Singh, Canada’s Daryl Timmers, Barbados’ Orry Hunte and local boy Stefan Jeffrey to secure the champion driver award after coasting to victories in all three races.
This time though another driver that he is very familiar with will be present and his name is Kristian Boodoosingh out of the Twin Island Republic and no stranger to Jeffrey, having had a few bruising battles with him in the CMRC. Jeffrey, who claims to love competition, is never one to back down from a duel so immediately you get the picture of what it will be like tonight when he faces his rivals who no doubt will be aiming to curtail his authority on the sport. Jeffrey, who clocked the fastest lap time of 29.261s at the previous Grand Prix is brimming with confidence and will be hard to beat. And judging from some of the practices sessions and the times recorded, Boodoosingh and company might be battling for the minor podium spots. Meanwhile, among the categories to be contested are: 60cc, 125cc Junior, 125cc Senior, 4-Stroke Light, 4-Stroke Heavy, Shifter karts and the Easy Cup Rookies.
LABF/Hamid Foundation U23 Basketball
Bulls face Kwakwani, Riders oppose Falcons in tomorrow’s semis Kwakwani is set to face the Bulls while Retrieve Raiders will oppose Falcons when the semi finals of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association / Hamid F o u n d a t i o n U n d e r- 2 3
basketball championship are contested at the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Court tomorrow night. Amelia’s Ward Jets, by virtue of failing to be on time gifted Kwakwani an
important win via the walk over route which in essence cost them their seemingly assured semifinal spot once they had played that game and now are out of contention for top honours.
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Holder, Ahmed confident as Brighto Paints Q Mobile Cup ODI series bowls off today at Providence By Zaheer Mohamed The newly re-laid pitch at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence will come under the microscope when the West Indies take on Pakistan in the first of the three-match One-day Internationals in the Brighto Paints Q Mobile Cup series. Previously, the pitch has not been conducive to batting whereas the ball kept low thus resulting in low scoring games; only once did the venue experienced an innings of over 300 which was made by Sri Lanka against the home team in the 2007 CWC. The new pitch is expected to favour the fast bowlers which will enhance stroke play and fans can look forward to a high scoring series. But if proven otherwise, both teams will have to rely heavily on their spinners. With eight of the top ten ODI teams guaranteed a direct berth at the World Cup, and with Pakistan currently in eight position in the ICC rankings, one ahead of the host, both teams will be looking to take an early advantage in the series. West Indies need to win all three games to overtake Pakistan in the rankings. The departure of key players including Sunil Narine, Samuel Badree, Kieron Pollard, Carlos Brathwaite and Marlon Samuels to the Indian Premier League have left a void in the West Indies team, but their Captain Jason Holder thinks his team can go all the way. Speaking at a press conference held at the Guyana National Stadium yesterday, Holder said that his players are slowly but surely improving. “The last series didn’t go as planned, we felt we have competed nicely but we dropped too many catches and didn’t hold on to our chances at crucial stages. We need to cease these moments and this is one of the things we have spoken about, he added. Holder stated that the pitch looks a lot different but they would have to examine the conditions as early as possible and make sure they know what’s best for the team which he said will be crucial. Teenage leg spinner
Devendra Bishoo WICB Media/Randy Brooks of Brooks Latouche Photography Shadab Khan played an important role in Pakistan’s success in the T20 series but Holder said his batsmen will have more time to look at him in this series. ”Shadab has had some success in the T20 series, he is new so we haven’t seen him much but in this one day series we have a bit more time than in the T20 so we can play ourselves in and have better look at him”, he related. The home team’s batting has been a cause for concern and Holder said it will be important to keep wickets intact in the latter stages of the innings. “Consistency is a problem we have had in recent past, but we have got to work on our game plan to certain bowlers. We have struggled against the slow bowlers in recent, whereas we have lost wickets in a cluster and haven’t gained momentum, so we must ensure that we get that momentum going, he posited. The Captain pointed out that the mood in the camp is good and the players are positive. “There is no point on dwelling in the past, yes we have to learn from our mistakes but we have to put that behind as quickly and get a good start to the series. I know the Guyanese people are passionate about their cricket and we are looking forward to give them something to shout about,”
said Holder. “ ”Pakistan is a good team and the onus is pretty much on them to beat us, but they are only one step ahead of us in the ICC rakings. We have shown in the T20 that we can beat them but we need to cease crucial moments. Each batsman has to spend time in the middle so we can get in the excess of 250 which should be a plus for us.” Holder explained that the team’s fielding has let them down in the past and this is one of the areas they must improve in to be successful. “We dropped some crucial catches against England, but a collective effort from the players can see us through,” he related. Following the success in the T20 series, Pakistan Captain Sarfraz Ahmed feels this series is important for both teams since a place in the World Cup is at stake. He said that the conditions here have changed somewhat as compared to when they last visited in 2010 but his players are gelling nicely which is important. ”The players are confident so it is important we get a good start and keep the momentum going and hopefully take the series,” he stated. A lot will depend on Guyanese leg spinner Devendra Bishoo, Shannon Gabriel, Miguel Cummins (Continued on page 32)
Kaieteur News
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Friday April 07, 2017
RHT Pepsi Intermediate are Farouk Kudrath Memorial champions Assists All-Rounder Sports Club
Farouk Kudrath Memorial champions, RHT Pepsi Team Led by brilliant performances from the talented Kevlon Anderson and left arm spinner Keith Simpson, Rose Hall Town Pepsi Intermediate team easily defeated the AllRounder Sports Club of West Bank Demerara by 67 runs to lift the Farouk Kudrath Memorial Trophy. Playing at the Area ‘H’ Ground on Sunday last, Anderson continued his rich run of form by stroking a majestic 95 not out while Berbice junior cricketer Keith Simpson claimed 5-9 from 6.2 overs. The match was played in memory of the late Farouk Kudrath, former Assistant Secretary/CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports
Club. Kudrath who served for eight years died in July, 2008 and was one of the main persons who worked beyond the call of duty to make the Club what it is today. RHT Pepsi winning the toss and batting first, lost national junior player Kevin Sinclair bowled by A. Shadprasad for 1 at 9-1 in the 2nd over but Anderson and former national junior cricketer Brandon Prashad added 62 for the 2nd wicket before Prashad was dismissed for a well-played 31. Anderson then batted with great concentration to anchor the innings as wickets fell around him to leave the RHT Pepsi 120 for 7.
RHTY&SC Executives Keith Hicks and Robbie Kissoonlall makes the donation to Officials of the All Rounder Sports Club. He found a reliable partner in former Berbice Under-15 player Brandon Corlette and the pair added 60 for the 8th wicket off 12 overs to lead the RHT Pepsi to 180-7 off their allotted 35 overs. Anderson ended undefeated on 95 (6x4 2x6) while Corlette was unbeaten on 21 with two boundaries. Bowling for the visitors, T. Shadprasad claimed 3-48 from 7 overs while Timor Mohammed took 2-18. Needing to score 181 runs from 35 overs to claim the title, the West Bank Demerara team were dismissed for 113 off 26.1 overs as only V. Jaigobin 32 and B. Budhoo 14 reached double figures, extras
contributed 19. Jaigobin struck four boundaries and a six in an attractive innings. Simpson, one of the most promising junior cricketers of the RHTY&SC ended 5-19 from 6.2 overs received support from medium pacer Jamal Jarvis 2-16 from seven and spinner Kevin Sinclair 2-17 from 5 overs. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster in handing over the Farouk Kudrath Memorial Trophy to RHT Pepsi Captain Shawn Perriera stated that the club strongly believes in honouring its heroes and Kudrath was one of its best. Meanwhile, in Kudrath’s m e m o r y, t h e P e p s i Intermediate team handed
over a quantity of items to the All Rounder Sports Club. The items included a complete set of stumps, three trophies and six medals, scorebooks, wicket keeping gloves, educational materials and one hundred hand towels. The female members of the touring party and children also received special gifts. The trophies and medals would be used by the Club to host a Say NO/Say YES Cricket Tournament. Foster at the simple presentation ceremony stated that the club was delighted to assist fellow clubs across Guyana to fulfil their mandate and out of a genuine concern to make
sure that sports is used as a vehicle to get youths away from drugs and crime. Speaking on behalf of the All Rounder Sports Club, Team Manager Mr. Bharrat praised the outstanding work of the RHTY&SC over the years and noted that it was a role model organisation that needed to be emulated. The All Rounder Sports Club, he stated was playing only its third match since it was reorganised and expressed gratitude to the RHTY&SC for their donation. He said that although they lost the match, they felt victorious as Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation has inspired them to do so much more in their home village.
Ministry of Public Security does it again in Domino humdinger The Ministry of Public Security won for a second consecutive week on Wednesday afternoon in a domino humdinger at the Police ‘A’ Division Games Day at the Brickdam Police Station, with a one-game win over the Officers of the Station. Officers, unlike the previous week, romped to an early lead. However, the defending champions from last week, finished strong to pip Officers in the end with 79 games while Officers finished on 78 games. Media was third again with 68 games. The fourth week of the competition continued the excitement owed to the close battles between the three teams. Each team filled the venue with encouragement and usual domino banter which helped propel the Ministry in end. The Media again can only blame itself after two unforced errors and a bad round set them back. Kaieteur News’ Rawle Welch, despite battling back to secure crucial games, rapped twice with cards in
-Edge Officers in one-game win at ‘A’ Division Games Day
The Ministry of Public Security team sitting in the winners’ row last week; the team repeated the position on Wednesday, edging the Officers by one game at the Police ‘A’ Division Games Day. hand while a five-game round in the fourth sitting did not help the Media up the ladder in the competition. In addition, News
Room’s Keon Blades and Stabroek News’ Duncan Saul were love birds in the first and fourth sittings, which also did not help the media. Assistant
Superintendent, Anthony Austin was the other ‘love bird’ in the competition. Ministry of Public Security’s Denise
Baveghems was the Most Valuable Player (MVP) with 18 games while Deputy Superintendent, Denise Griffith was the best player for the Officers
with 15 games while Colin Boyce recorded 17 games for the Media. The three teams will continue the rivalry next week at a location to be named.
Kaieteur News
Friday April 07, 2017
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Sixteen Team U19 tourney deal sealed between RHTY&SC and Republic Bank
Republic Bank (Guy) Ltd Rose Hall Town Manager Harry Dass Ghaness hands over sponsorship to RHTY&SC Asst Organising Manager, Rabindranauth Kissoonlall.
The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club on Monday last received a major boost from long serving sponsor Republic Bank (Guy) Ltd. in the form of sponsorship for a 16team Under-19 cricket tournament, across Berbice. The tournament would be played under the Club’s highly successful Say NO/Say YES Outreach Programme. Republic Bank, Rose Hall Town Branch Manager Harry Dass Ghaness officially launched the tournament by handing the sponsorship cheque worth $ 1 4 5 , 0 0 0 t h e c l u b ’s Assistant Organising Secretary, Rabindranath Kissoonlall. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster hailed the successful and long standing relationship between the two organisations and described the Bank as a true friend to Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation. Republic Bank, he stated is one of the main reasons why the club is the only of its kind to have ever received a National Award. Among the clubs expected to participate in teh 40-overs competition are Blairmont, Bush Lot,
T u c k e r P a r k , Yo u n g Warriors, Rose Hall Town, Kendall Union, Big Star and Toopoo. Game time would be 11:00hrs. Teams would be required to provide evidence of their player’s date of birth if so required. The cut-off date of birth is on or after the 1st of September, 1998. Foster explained that the RHTY&SC Cricket Development Committee and the Say No/Say Yes Campaign Sub-Committee would be using the tournament as a vehicle to encourage youths to Say NO to Drugs, Suicide, Crime, Alcohol and Yes to Life, Education and Sports. He said that the passion for cricket is on the decline in Berbice because of the state of West Indies and internal cricket politics in Berbice, stating that the club was committed to lifting the standard of the game in the ancient county once again. The winning team would take home $40,000 and a trophy while the runner-up would receive $25,000 and trophy. Other prizes would go to the Best Batsman, Best Bowler and Man of the Final. Teams in the competition are reminded that they would be disqualified if they
play any overaged player while no form of indiscipline would be tolerated. Spectators are also reminded that the use of alcohol would not be encouraged at matches especially at the semi-finals and final. Teams requiring more information on the tournament are asked to contact the RHTY&SC on 337-4562 or email: foster_hilbert@yahoo.com.
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Kaieteur News
Friday April 07, 2017
Petra Organisation supports WDFA U-17 Tournament
Petra Organisation member Mark Alleyne (2nd left) hands over the items to WDFA Secretary Adrian Giddings in the presence of Petra’s Troy Mendonca and Women’s President Charmine Wade on Wednesday.
Petra Organisation as part of its stated mission to assist in the development of football within communities listed the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) as the latest recipient of its goodwill when member Mark Alleyne made a presentation of balls and the winning trophy, during a simple ceremony that was conducted, at the Ministry of Education ground on Wednesday. The items were presented to WDFA Secretary Adrian Giddings in the presence of Petra Organisation Co-
Director Troy Mendonca and Wo m e n ’s F o o t b a l l Association President Charmine Wade, during the staging of the semif i n a l s o f t h i s y e a r ’s M i l o 1 8 a n d u n der Schools Football Tournament. Mendonca speaking at the occasion said that the gesture represents what the Organisation stands for
which is to help further the development of the sport and to foster better camaraderie among the various communities. Giddings in his response thanked the Organisation for its support which according to him will be used for the staging of the Association’s Under-17 Tournament anticipated to commence shortly.
Substantial damages” for Samuels as Lawson settles defamation case
Marlon Samuels Kingston, Jamaica, C M C — We s t I n d i e s batsman Marlon Samuels is set to receive “substantial damages” and a full public apology after succeeding in a defamation case against former Australian fast bowler Goeff Lawson. The Jamaican’s England-based lawyer Suzette A. Thompson said Lawson had erred in making offensive comments in a radio podcast, ‘Big Sports Breakfast last year, and added that her client was now pleased with the outcome. ‘These comments were published and aired without proper journalist research, nor was Samuels contacted to give his views on the damaging remarks about his character,” Thompson said. ”We are delighted that Lawson and the Big Sports Breakfast radio have now settled and are issuing a full apology and agreed to pay substantial damages to Marlon.” Speaking a day after Samuels steered West Indies to the capture of the Twenty20 World Cup in India last April, Lawson claimed the player was
associated with criminal activity in Jamaica and was “a guy you don’t muck around with on or off the field.” Samuels then instructed his lawyers to take legal action against Lawson for “erroneous, m a l i c i o u s a n d unjustifiable comments.” The 36-year-old Samuels, a veteran of 71 Tests and 187 One-Day Internationals, said it had been important to defend his values. ”Through this case, my intention was not only to defend my integrity and i m a g e a s a n international cricketer, but also the values I have defended all my career,” he said. ”I also wish to avoid any public figure from making insulting or false allegations against an athlete using the media, without any evidence or foundation and to go unpunished.” Lawson’s apology will be broadcast on air at an agreed time. It is understood that Samuels will donate a percentage of the damages to the Marlon Samuels Society for the Blind in Jamaica along with other charities.
Kaieteur News
Friday April 07, 2017
Bosai Inter Department B’ball
General Services retain title with commanding 61-44 win over Mines General Services romped to their second straight title when they brushed aside Mines in the final of the BOSAI Minerals Group (Guyana) Inc. Inter Department basketball championship last Saturday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Court. Jamal Bethune was awesome in being the scorer with 22 points as his team led at the end of the first quarter 16-11 and at half time, 33-25. The champions tightened their grip and Mines, which had looked like they had a chance after the first half had ended, were out maneuvered in the end, 61-44. Bethune got excellent support from Domain Webster with 13 points, Marlon Persaud 10 and Alphie Robertson 8 as they ensured that they did not lose their way to record a huge win. Mines’ best effort came from Marvin Russell who notched up 15 points, Carl Isaacs had 9 and former junior national Marlon Pollydore 5 points. In the third place playoff match, Plant Maintenance proved too strong for Plant Operations engineering a resounding 79-56 win. Maintenance overturned a two point lead (8-10)
Operations had by the end of the first quarter and three points (25-28) at the half way mark. Maintenance outscored Operations which cracked up in the second half, 54-28 to gallop home winners 7956. In that second half surge Maintenance was led by Monty Niles Jnr., who hit in four 3 pointers to end with 19 points, Mark Louis collected 18, Dave Hopkinson 16 and Anson Durant 10. The best players for the Operations side were Quincy Datson with the game high 28 points, Myron Prescott 18 and Patrice Ricketts 8. In the female free throw competition, Nickel McIntosh was the winner. The presentation of the top prizes were done by P r o c u r e m e n t Superintendent, Jeffrey Wang.
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GCF launches Chess in Prison initiative Less than one month after assuming the helm of the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) and committing to viable initiatives towards the s p o r t ’s a d v a n c e m e n t , President, James Bond, paid a visit to the Camp Street Prisons, Georgetown, and met with officials to put the modalities in place for a Chess Club in the penal institution. He was accompanied by Vi c e P r e s i d e n t o f Development Frankie Farley, Committee Member, Anthony Drayton and Honorary Member, Errol Tiwari. Officer in Charge of the Georgetown Prisons, Senior Superintendent, Nickelon Elliot met the delegation and was delighted by the initiative. He viewed the introduction of the sport in the Prisons as a great step towards the effective rehabilitation of inmates. The GCF will supply chess boards, clocks and books to start off the programme and will provide trainers to hone the skills of interested inmates.
Mr. Bond (2nd right), is flanked by Prison officials Nickelon Elliot (left) and Cadet Officer Hale in the presence of Anthony Drayton and Frankie Farley (extreme left) during the prison visit. Mr. Bond also assured that he will take a personal interest in the development of the inmates and his executives will render the necessary support. Mr. Elliot was delighted and proposed that (chess) officials extend the initiative to the other prisons; his proposal was immediately accepted. Shortly before meeting w i t h M r. E l l i o t , t h e delegation engaged a group of ten inmates, under the
guidance of Cadet Officer Hale, and enforced the ability of the game to mold individuals while containing unhealthy excesses. Former Junior Champion, Anthony Drayton, outlined the benefits that can be derived from involvement in the sport while his views were supported by Tiwari in a similar presentation. Meanwhile, 19 inmates recently participated in a tournament which gave the
visiting delegation an idea of where to commence its tutoring exercise. ”This engagement is an excellent start and we look forward the staging of the schools’ programme shortly,” said Mr. Bond.
t r o Sp Holder, Ahmed confident as Brighto Paints Q Mobile Cup ODI series bowls off today at Providence
West Indies Captain Jason Holder
Pakistan Captain Sarfraz Ahmed
Pakistan Coach Mikey Arthur inspects the pitch.
GFF Youth Development Programme to be presented at XXXII CONCACAF Ordinary Congress
East Bank FA youths with GFF TD and Coaches at the Diamond Community Centre ground.
Georgetown Local motor racing most prized property Grand Prix on show tonight; large turnout expected 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