Wednesday April 27, 2016
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Kaieteur News
I AM NOT THE ORIGINAL FACTOR IN THE LBI CLOSURE DISPUTE
DEAR EDITOR, I have exercised extreme restraint from commenting on GuySuCo’s press releases and its public commentaries on its intended closure of the LBI Estate operations, because I do not want to interfere with its work or get embroiled in its ongoing dispute with the sugar unions However, the unions, GAWU and NAACIE, in their joint letter to the press on April 22 have identified me, former Human Resources Director with the company, as the one who gave them an assurance that only the LBI factory will be merged with Enmore. Lest it be interpreted that I am responsible, by any measure, for the current raging dispute between the
Union and GuySuCo on the merger issue I feel compelled to clear the air on what actually took place in 2011 on the closure of the LBI factory. The core of the current disputation, in my opinion, is the Unions claiming on one hand that they were assured in 2011 that only the factory will be merged with Enmore, and the company, on the other hand, is claiming that the merger for not only the factory, but all other operating departments at LBI started in 2011. Let me state before outlining the details that expose the reality of 2011 that it was never the intention of the company in 2011 to close any other operation beyond that of the LBI factory.It’s
THE RECKLESS AND DANGEROUS USE OF THE ROADS DEAR EDITOR, We, whether as pedestrians, motor vehicles operators, must all be concerned about the careless manner in which our roads are used. A list would include excessive speeding even when the road is wet, reckless overtaking ,etc. However, I have observed two types of behavior which, as the saying goes, would take the cake. First, quite recently the competent authorities devoted a great deal of effort in clearly demarcating the areas of the roads which motorists and pedestrians should occupy but this makes no difference to some motorists who apparently believe that the entire road belongs to them. Relatedly, I recently observed a pattern of behavior which came to me as a surprise. A minibus proceeding from east to west on the East Coast Road who encountered other vehicles stopped in response to the red lights at the junction of that road and Sheriff Street simply used the green arrow pointing to entry into that street, entered the Subryanville area and emerged on the public road, all before the traffic lights that he at first encountered had changed. I was forced to wonder what mark should be awarded to that driver for initiative and creativity. Secondly, we must be both concerned and angry when breaches of the law occur in the presence of the law or in close proximity to the law. This occurs on a regular basis in the area close to Police Headquarters and its newly established training facility at the junction of Camp Street and Carifesta Avenue where traffic lights are located. Evidently, a number of motorists have developed the attitude or practice of not joining the line of traffic on Camp Street awaiting the change in the traffic lights indicating that they could safely enter Carifesta Avenue on their eastern journey. Rather, they boldly use the green arrow indicating that they should proceed west to establish themselves ahead or in positions to get ahead of the line of waiting traffic. In the process there are usually close misses of collision between vehicles, in which lives are endangered. Yet such practices and violations continue unabated virtually in the presence of the police. What then of the often repeated admonition of zero tolerance? And what is the message being sent to police trainees and the public at large? Harold Lutchman
plainly misleading for the company to state that the “integration of the two estates was done in a haphazard manner, and as such was not properly implemented”, and that the integration process of the departments other than the factory started in 2011. Neither GAWU nor NAACIE was engaged in any discussion other than that pertaining to the merger of the 2 factories in 2011. The merger of the 2 factories was completed in a manner acceptable by law, in accordance with standard labour relations practices and in full compliance with the mandate of the Board of Directors. Editor, a decision and process that border on the closing of an estate within GuySuCo is of such magnitude that no corporate officer could afford or risk not to act within the clear mandate of the Board of Directors. As the Human Resources Director then, I was tasked with the responsibility by the Board to deal with all the human resources and labour relations issues surrounding a successful merger of the LBI and Enmore factories, and I acted accordingly. At the Board of Directors’ meeting on February 9, 2011 held at the White House, LBI Compound under the chairmanship of Dr. N.K. Gopaul and including Paul Bhim, acting CEO, the “consolidation/merger” of the LBI factory with Enmore, among other items, was
discussed. At this meeting, Yusuf Abdul, General Manager Technical Services sought through a documented presentation the Board’s approval for “the deployment of the LBI factory staff after the factory ceases grinding operations to locations described in the foregoing”. The “foregoing” were: assigned to factory (52 workers), retain at LBI powerhouse (21), Enmore packaging plant (30), Electrical& Instrument Workshop (16), Excess (15) Possible Early Retirement (12) and LBI Administrative Office (2) – a total of 148 workers. The Board then approved “the consolidation of LBI and Enmore Factories after the closure of the current crop at LBI. It is optional for employees to accept early retirement benefit. There shall be no imposition of severance or early retirement. The Board further approves the upgrade of the Enmore factory to 120 TCH (tonnes cane per hour)”. It’s quite pellucid that no approval was given beyond the closure (consolidation) of the LBI factory. At the Board of Directors’ meeting on March 2, 2011 held at the White House, LBI Compound the Board requested that “discussions with the Unions on the merger of LBI & Enmore factories should be accelerated so that workers at LBI could be moved to Enmore before the severance allowances at Diamond are
AN APPRECIATION OF RAS MICHAEL DEAR EDITOR, I read with great sadness of the passing of Ras Micheal. He was a brother that we got to know while at our business on Regent Street. Many a conversations/gaff we had on his faith and ours. He told me about his belief in Lord Siva whom he called Baba. I was interested in his poetry but he left Guyana before we could have done anything together. Found him on Facebook a year or so ago and he added me as soon as I sent him a friend’s request. His writings are thought provoking and immensely profound. He would from time to time, post his thoughts online. I don’t like profanities yet his was a gift of turning the ordinary into poetry that he would often time, ornament with cuss words. It was beautiful. I left Facebook a while now and missed his words. I read of his passing and mourn the loss of another immensely gifted Guyanese brother, an unsung hero. You are already missed, my brethern. Walk good! Nanda Sahadeo
paid”. It is obvious that request for discussions with the Unions was restricted to the mergers of the LBI & Enmore factories. At the same March 2nd meeting, Bhim presented to the Board in his Operations Report that “it was decided that the LBI factory will not be dismantled until Enmore factory is operating well, and that management should proceed with the preparatory work at Enmore to accommodate the punt dumper”. Bhim’s report did not go beyond the closure of the factory. At a Management Committee meeting, under the chairmanship of Bhim, held on March 9, 2011 at Rose Hall Estate, discussions, among other items, focused on the “merger of the LBI and Enmore factories”, and at this meeting it was communicated that “the merger is planned for March 18, 2011, tentatively”, and that “interviews are being conducted in the establishment”. Under the Departmental Reports at this meeting, the following was noted “They (workers) will be informed of their location and alternative transportation arrangements”. All were in reference to the LBI factory and LBI factory workers; no other operating departments. The following was extracted from the “Action Points from March 2, 2011 Board Meeting under item 13 -”Action to be taken by the Human Resources Director – Acceleration of discussions of LBI & Enmore factories merger” – and the status was “Merger has been completed on March 18, all workers have taken up their new positions on March 22, 2011”. The Board’s mandate was accomplished. The assurance to the Unions that only the factory will be affected by the merger was in accordance with the Board’s decision and was given at the first meeting held with them on February 22, 2011 at LBI Training Room. At this meeting, Abdul and Raymond Sangster, General Manager, Agriculture Services ,corporate representatives of the company, made contributions to justify the merger. Sangster, who had overarching responsibilities for agriculture operations
throughout the company, including mill dock, field office, cane transport, general field workers and field workshop, made no mention of merging, consolidating or integrating any these units with Enmore. As a matter of fact, he assured that they will not be affected, and that “only the canes harvested at LBI will be transported to Enmore for processing”. The meeting on February 22 was the only one that dealt with the concept and purpose of consolidating the 2 factories. There were 2 subsequent meetings, but they all focused on the redeployment of workers from LBI to Enmore, criteria for early retirement, payment of holiday with pay for LBI workers and the interviewing process with each employee. Editor, if there was a need to merge all the other operating departments so that “the integration process” would not lead “to the detriment of the economics of EDE”, as claimed by the company in a separate press release, then it behooved that Bhim, as the CEO in 2011, and who is now a member of the Interim Management, should have insisted that the Board approved beyond the merger of the LBI factory to include all the other operating departments. He did not. I seek not to interfere or intervene in the works of the sugar company or the stance of the Unions, nor to influence any ongoing outcomes, but as a matter of clarity for my own public image, I thought it would be prudent to state the facts as they relate to the closure, consolidation, merger, integration of the LBI and Enmore Estates, and will refrain hereafter making anyfurther comment on this matter; unless there is any disputation of the facts. Jai Petam Former Human Resources Director GuySuCo
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Wednesday April 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
New Baishanlin owner will face int’l due “This will be the way forward for all companies entering diligence the natural resources sector,”- Minister Trotman Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman is adamant that all foreign companies entering the natural resources sector will be subjected to a due diligence exercise. This refers to an investigation of a business or person prior to signing a contract, or an act with a certain standard of care. Trotman told Kaieteur News yesterday that international support is available to assist with the due diligence exercises. China Longjiang Forest Industry (Group) will be no exception to this rule. This is the company that is to completely take over BaiShanLin Forest Development Inc. in Guyana. China Longjiang already has a 55 percent hold in BaiShanLin. BaiShanLin, on numerous occasions, has been heavily criticized by the local authorities for its wanton abuse of Guyana’s forests. Forensic auditor, Anand Goolsarran, in a recent interview with Kaieteur News
said that this company has literally “fooled the nation” while enjoying millions of dollars worth in concessions and the grant of two exploratory permit without meeting the criteria. The company has also benefited from “premium” privileges under the guise that it would establish a state-of-the-art wood processing facility here. Ten years later and this promise is unfulfilled. Taking into consideration that the entity has failed to fulfill its obligations to Guyana, Goolsarran, in his recent audit report of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) made several recommendations. The fact that the Forests Act does not permit a renewal of a State Forest Exploratory Permit at the end of three years, the contract with the company, Goolsarran said, should be terminated forthwith. In addition to this, Goolsarran said that the coalition administration should consider terminating the investment agreements with the company and
recover the value of the fiscal concessions granted to it. Goolsarran also recommended that State forest currently controlled by BaiShanLin should be returned to the Commission for reallocation. Kaieteur News understands that some action has already been taken in this regard by the GFC Board. According the GFC officials, 177,000 acres of land has been repossessed from BaiShanLin. China Longjiang has since expressed to the Government of Guyana that it intends to breathe new life into BaiShanLin. But this very company has “skeletons in its closet.” Several Forestry experts have found that China Longjiang, which is owned by the Government of China, has “a track record of unsustainable logging.” The state-owned company operates in the Heilongjiang Province. That area holds some of China’s prime and lush temperate forests. But after noting the
exploitation of the forests in that area by state firms, one of the most powerful being China LongJiang, the Government there was forced to halt commercial logging. China’s forestry experts have hailed the ban as a major step forward, predicting it will enable timber supplies to recover and shift the industry’s focus towards improved forestry management. Sheng Weitong, a forestry expert and former advisor to China’s cabinetlevel State Council, told China Dialogue that some laid-off loggers “will become forest rangers and learn how to manage forests because the vast numbers of young and semi-mature trees in these districts need management. Workers here neglected forest management in the past.” “Others will be encouraged to develop alternative industries such as tourism, growing blueberries, ginseng, edible mushrooms, and flowers, or raising chickens and frogs. Existing
Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman laws are thought sufficient to tackle illegal logging.” The ban in Heilongjiang significantly affects China Longjiang Forest Industry and Daxing Anling Forestry Company (Anling Forestry), and signifies a shift towards forest conservation, rather than utilization, Sheng says. The two state-owned companies manage 18.45 million hectares of forests, covering 39 percent of the entire province of Heilongjiang, according to the official Xinhua news agency. The Heilongjiang province, close to the frozen
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood
river border with Siberia, had forests which were once so dense that the area was known as the Great Northern Wilderness. But China’s forestry experts emphasized that more than 50 years of unsustainable logging by state-entities such as China Longjiang have led to disastrous deforestation. This has resulted in soil erosion and dust storms. And with fewer trees to retain water, Heilongjiang has suffered devastating floods. From 2001 through 2012, Heilongjiang lost over 470,000 hectares of tree cover representing more than 2.5 percent of its forested area, according to data from Global Forest Watch (GFW). The ban comes after years of declining tree cover loss in the province over the past 15 years, from a high of 80,000 hectares lost in 2004 to just under 23,000 hectares in 2012, the most recent date for which GFW data is available. “A halt here (in Heilongjiang) means an end to the way China has been utilizing forestry resources since 1949, and creates an opportunity for China to move to an era of improved forestry management,” agrees Hou Yuanzhao, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Forestry, adding that Heilongjiang’s stateowned forests are the centre of China’s forestry industry.
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
‘Out means out’, German lawmakers warn Britain on Brexit
Angela Merkel Reuters - Britain should not get special treatment from the European Union if it leaves the bloc and should expect tough talks in sealing bilateral deals, lawmakers from German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s governing coalition said yesterday. The British people should be aware of the risks if a Brexit went ahead, the lawmakers said, and applauded U.S. President Barack Obama for his comment last week that it would take years for Britain to negotiate a trade deal with the United States if it voted to leave the bloc on June 23. Volker Kauder, the leader of Merkel’s conservatives in parliament, said Britain would lose all the benefits it enjoys as a full member of the European Union: “Out means out!” Opinion polls suggest the sides are evenly matched, with a survey by ICM showing a slight lead for those in favour of Brexit while a survey in the Telegraph newspaper gave a slight lead to those preferring to stay. “Rules will be without
David Cameron doubt set for the internal European market. Discussions among leaders will take place as usual and Britain will not be there,” Michael GrosseBroemer, deputy floor leader of Merkel’s Christian Democrats (CDU) said. He thanked Obama for “making it clear one more time that Britain, also in his view, has an important status in Europe, and this is also our belief”. Gerda Hasselfeldt, parliamentary group head of the Christian Social Union (CSU), Merkel’s Bavarian allies, said Britain should not expect to have preferential treatment in case of a Brexit. “To me, it is clear: exit means exit. Citizens have to know that with this decision there will be no special treatment for Britain,” Hasselfeldt said. German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble last month warned that a British vote to leave would “poison” the British, European and global economies. Schaeuble said that while Britain would still be able to trade with the EU after leav-
ing, it could not have the advantage of access to the bloc’s single market without accepting free movement of EU citizens or paying in to the EU’s budget. “We went some way toward accommodating Britain’s demands,” Thomas Oppermann, parliamentary faction leader of the leftleaning Social Democrats (SPD) said, referring to a deal that British Prime Minister David Cameron sealed at an EU summit in February that gave Britain “special status” in the bloc. “I believe that a Brexit will have devastating consequences for the British economy,” he said. “The financial institutions in the City of London will look with horror at the day when such a decision is made.” EU leaders in February granted Britain an explicit exemption from the founding goal of “ever closer union”, offered concessions on welfare rights for migrant workers and safeguards for the City of London financial centre.
Venezuela opposition gets paperwork to start Maduro recall drive CARACAS (Reuters) Venezuela’s election board gave opposition leaders yesterday a document letting them begin the process of seeking a referendum to remove President Nicolas Maduro, who is under fire over a deepening economic crisis. Triple-digit inflation, Soviet-style production shortages and a severe recession have made the socialist leader broadly unpopular, and the opposition’s decisive victory in legislative elections last year has emboldened it to push for a recall vote. Opposition legislators chained themselves to the council’s office last week to
protest its failure to provide the paperwork for the first step toward collecting the nearly 4 million signatures needed to trigger the referendum. They celebrated yesterday’s move as a political victory and changed plans for a protest march today to a signature drive instead. “Today we took a first step to begin the recall of Maduro,” opposition deputy Elias Matta tweeted. “We the people support change, there is no way to stop it.” But supporters of the recall effort face a protracted and uncertain road. The opposition must now officially ask the elections council to oversee the collec-
tion of some 200,000 signatures, and then must request another petition drive in which it must gather the required 4 million signatures. Venezuela’s oppositiondominated National Assembly has passed legislation to streamline the process for seeking recall votes, but the Supreme Court, which routinely backs Maduro in disputes with the legislature, looks certain to strike it down. Yesterday, the court ruled that any constitutional amendment to reduce the presidential term could not be made retroactive, shooting down one of the opposition’s other main strategies to oust Maduro, who was elected in 2013.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Wednesday April 27, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Barber charged with Anna Catherina triple murder Almost four years after the horrific attack, 31-year-old Abishai Caesar was yesterday charged with the September 2012 murders of 41-year-old Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara businesswoman Jennifer Persaud, and her sons 6-year-old Afridi Bacchus and 18-month-old Jadon Persaud, when he appeared before Magistrate Rushelle Liverpool at the Leonora Magistrates Court. The case has unsettled the village ever since lurid details of the crime resurfaced through the media on Sunday last, when Caesar, a former neighbour of the victims, was detained as a suspect. Caesar, a barber, of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, was charged with three counts of murder. Particulars of the charges state that between September 21st and 22nd 2012 in the village of Anna Catherina, he murdered Jennifer Persaud called “Jenny” and her two children Afridi Bacchus and Jadon Persaud.
He was not required to plead to the indictable charges. Police investigations have also widened to include that Caesar a father of one in 2012 engaged in the sexual penetration of a girl under 15 years old. He was not required to plead to the rape allegation. He is also charged with assault causing actual bodily harm committed against his reputed wife on April 22nd at Anna Catherina to which he denied. It is further alleged that on the same day, at the same location, he threatened to kill the woman and stripped her naked and beat her. However Caesar, who first pleaded guilty to the offence, denied the allegation. The magistrate then recorded a not guilty plea on his behalf because he disagreed with the prosecutor‘s facts. Prosecutor Corporal Richard Harris objected to bail on the two additional charges
based on the fact that he did not provide the court with a fixed place of abode. Caesar was remanded to prison and will appear again on May 31. Family members of the deceased who were present at court expressed some satisfaction that the police investigations have put an end to the dark mystery that remained for four years. Caesar was never arrested in 2012, though persons were charged. Maria Persaud, who is the mother of Caesar’s child, but is not in a
Afridi Bacchus
relationship with him, said that he was never abusive towards her, and “he is a nice loving person” However, the father of Afridi Bacchus expressed relief about the police being able to bring his son’s alleged killer to face the courts. “It was worth the wait, but this is no sort of justice for what he did to my son” the father declared “Afridi would have been 10 years old today,” he said with a sorrowful look in his eyes.
Jadon Persaud
Jennifer Persaud
Dem boys seh...
Brassington run and lef Guyana wid de hydroseed Every day some new and shocking revelations hitting Guyana. The most shocking one is that Brassington behave like if de public treasury was he personal bank book. Ashni Singh and Jagdeo, that scamp, behave like if de treasury was a joint account between dem. Ask dem fuh explain how dem allow Brassington to giveaway over $400M to de American company that been here and promise to build Guyana’s hydroseed. From de time dem announce de hydroseed was crookishness and secrecy. Brassington, Jagdeo and Ashni behave like if was a bedroom story. Dem tell de nation that de hydroseed gun cost Guyana US$400M. Not even a month pass and de cost jump to US$600M. Then Sithe Global come to Guyana and hold a big press conference and by de time de conference done de cost was US$900. De next morning, in de plane heading to
Miami, de same man tell de Waterfalls boss man that de project might cost over US$1B. When de man find out who he tell that to, he cover he head wid a blanket and play sleep just not to let out any more secrets. Since then fuh every project, Jagdeo got Brassington putting in a confidentiality clause. Dem boys seh de way dem was flaunting dem two words ‘Confidentiality Clause’ dem believe was some new sex pose in dem bedroom. Now de American people run way wid Guyana money and Brassington run way too. Nobody ain’t know wheh he gone and that is because of de confidentiality clause Soulja Bai look like he now want to accept. Brassington gone wid money; Deonarine gone wid money; Ashni disappear; Rob de Earth can’t be found and Jagdeo now missing. Talk half and thank de Man above that de Waterfalls paper save Guyana from a terrible billion-dollar hydroseed.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 27, 2016
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN...
I told David Hinds he was mad
David Hinds and I were on the lawns of Channel 9 studio waiting for our interview programme to begin. This was in July 2015, if my memory serves me correctly. As we were chatting, he made a disclosure that confused me. He said that he would be doing columns for the Chronicle. If you know David, ask him what my reaction was. Given my loud mouth, the decibels would not be minimal. I exclaimed, “Bhai yuh maad!” I know David Hinds profoundly. He is one of the most maverick political activists this country has produced. I know David because I have a similar political temperament. A month before David’s revelation, I was chatting with Imran Khan, who is the Prime Minister’s point man for the state media. We were outside the AFC head office. The talk of course was the Chronicle. Frederick I can distinctly recall telling him that in the new age we are in, the Chronicle has to carry front page news of the opposition PPP, to which he agreed. I distinctly recall that he politely asked me if I would like to write for the Chronicle. I diplomatically said no for one simple reason; it would not work out. Now in 2016, David with his big quarrel with the Chronicle can contextualize my reaction that night at Channel 9. I would not have lasted beyond one column at the Chronicle and for one, single reason that is political in nature – the APNU+AFC leaders
are not transformational people who are willing to take risks in changing the old landscape of Guyana. I remind readers of a column I did on President Obama when I referenced the frustration of one of his biggest fans when he first became president – international superstar of the seventies and eighties, Joan Baez (see “Come from the Shadows: Joan Baez and Barack Obama,” Kaieteur News, January 18, 2015). Baez moved Obama down her list and put the Czech Republic founding father, Vaclav Havel, in front of him in terms of the possession of leadership qualities. For her, a leader must be prepared to take risks. For her Havel did, Obama won’t. What happened in May 2015 was historic. Had the PPP remained in power, Jagdeo vicariously working through the sycophancy of Donald Kissoon Ramotar would have literally destroyed Guyana. But the replacement was not a transformational one. This country rests on primitive fulcrums that cry out for a few dozen Havels. We don’t have those Havels. Even the WPA in the Coalition Government has self-destructed. Who or what is the WPA since 2015? Where is the WPA since 2015? As the months stretch into years, the WPA will lose its identity, only to be pathetically patronized by the larger parties in the 2020 elections. This is the state of our politics after 2015.
There are no signs that the PPP’s replacement will go beyond the usual – salary increase, renovated public infrastructure, etc; in other words things that any government would do, and that the PPP has done since 1992. Repairing the line faults that have weakened this country the past sixty years is not within the immediate grasp of our current leaders. In fact, one can be harsh with this new government and say that in its one year in office, it has attracted more controversies, condemnations, suspicion and cynicism than the first year of Jagdeo’s presidency. This is an unbelievable turn of events that not even a genius could have predicted. We are into eleven months of the new administration and the mistakes and flaws began before March or April 2016. They started early in the life of the Coalition Government. Who would have believed after 2015, a top official would chase a private media journalist out of a public place for simply reporting the truth?
Who would have believed crime would have become a nightmare to Guyanese after 2015? Who would have believed the complaints against police indiscretions would still haunt us after 2015. Who would have believed after 2015, the private media would have been accused by big wigs of the Coalition Government of trying to undermine it? Who would have believed Harmon-gate would have happened? I was under no illusion that my Chronicle columns would have been problematic days after they started. My pen would not have excluded the President; as with David’s column, look what happened. It would not have excluded the Prime Minister; as with David’s column, look what happened. I had no grandiose belief that the state media would have targeted its competitors and we would have had a huge competition between KN, SN and Chronicle for hard-hitting news and explosive, iconoclastic, revisionist commentaries.
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Lone consultant submits price proposal for new Dem. River Bridge During yesterday’s session at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), a price proposal was submitted by Trevor Hamilton and Associates, for the consultancy to conduct a feasibility study and design for the new Demerara River Bridge. The entity was not among the 27 foreign and local consultant bids which had originally been opened for the project on December 8, 2015. Kaieteur News understands, however, that a price proposal is submitted after technical proposals would have been evaluated. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) had invited fresh Expressions of Interest (EoI) from local and foreign consultants for a feasibility study and design for the new bridge last year. A pre-feasibility study was once done by the then Ministry of Public Works, Robeson Benn, in 2013. It had examined the cost and
benefits of three sites. The new study would have enhanced old pre-feasibility proposals, which the current administration had said lacked several components. The present Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) structure crosses the Demerara River four miles (6.4 km) south of Georgetown from Peter’s Hall, East Bank Demerara (EBD) to Schoonord, West Bank Demerara (WBD). It is a vital link between the EBD and Georgetown, especially in light of the many housing developments along both banks. However, regular traffic congestion has caused some frustration to road users. The new project frame work, as set out by the Ministry in its request for EOI, should examine the three possible sites for the new bridge - Houston, EBD to Versailles WBD; New Hope EBD to Laurentia Catherina, WBD or a site close to the existing structure. According to MPI’s mandate, any proposed bridge design will include a
navigational clearance of 100 metres wide with navigational aids, an air draft of 50 metres of vertical clearance, adequate marine collision protection at navigating channels, and an estimated length of 2,250 metres. The existing two-lane floating bridge was constructed in 1978 by the UK firm Thomas
Storey Engineers Limited. From 1995 to 1998 the bridge underwent major rehabilitation by the Damien Ship Yards of the Netherlands. At present the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation carries out intensive annual maintenance and element replacement activities on the bridge structure.
Meanwhile, under the Ministry of Public Health, there were bids for the supply of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, some amounting to billions of dollars. Kaieteur News would have reported on a shortage of basic drugs at the Georgetown Public Hospital, something which the corporation has denied. Patients have been going to the hospital, only to be given prescriptions and told that they will have to purchase certain medication. During a recent tour facilitated by GPHC drug bond manager, June Barry, it was stated that “there is no shortage of drugs at the facility”. However, sources have alleged that the tour was in fact a farce and that there is a drug shortage and in some cases mismanagement. In addition, patients have informed Kaieteur News that they are still being asked to buy Aspirin and Paracetamol in some cases.
Under the DHBC there were also bids for the servicing of pontoons and the fabrication of buoys. The engineer’s estimate was $58.7M.
Finally, there were bids for the docking and rehabilitation of the MV Makouria.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 27, 2016
14,500 to participate in NGSA today With noticeable changes such as candidates having to write their names on question papers, the 2016 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) is slated to commence today at primary schools across the country. This publication understands that Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, will be visiting the Helena Primary at Mahaica, his home village, to address candidates before the start of the assessments. According to information emanating from the Ministry yesterday all measures are in place to cater to a smooth delivery of the examinations at all sites. Approximately 14,500 candidates are expected to participate in the NGSA this year which will cover the subject areas of Mathematics, English, Science and Social Studies. This morning candidates are slated to write English Language Papers Two and One, while in the afternoon they will be expected to participate in the Science Papers Two and One. Tomorrow morning candidates will sit Mathematics Papers One and Two and in the afternoon they will write Social Studies Papers One and Two. The Ministry in a statement issued yesterday urged candidates to “remember to keep a positive attitude throughout the assessment and try to stay relaxed. If you start to feel nervous take a few deep breaths. Pace yourself, don’t rush. Read the whole question and pay attention to all the details looking for key words in every question to help you to understand and answer what is being asked of you”. Candidates are also reminded to be on time, walk with their timetables, read the instructions carefully and write their candidate’s number on all answer sheets. The Ministry had earlier said that changes to the NGSA are related to the question paper and answer sheets, and not the structure or format of the questions on the question paper. To clarify this development the Ministry had explained that while each of the four subjects written in the NGSA will continue to have two papers (Paper 1 and Paper 2) as it relates to candidate information, the two papers require different sets of information. For paper one, the answer sheets will have the candidate information – candidate name and identification number – already printed or ‘pre-slugged’. The candidates will however be required to write/sign their names as a mechanism to ensure that the candidate for whom the paper was prepared is actually the one who answers the questions. But according to the Ministry, this will have no implications for marking, because these answer sheets will all be marked electronically. However, as it relates to paper two, the
cover page of the answer sheet is bifurcated and perforated. The Test Code, Subject, and Candidate Number are required on both sides. The Test Code and Subject will already be printed while candidates will be required to write in their Candidate Number. This information is provided on the timetables given to every candidate. In addition to this, on the right half of the paper only, candidates are also required to write in the name of their school, their full name, date of birth and gender. The right side of the sheets are all detached prior to the commencement of the marking of paper two and retained for administrative purposes only. The information that would be evident during the marking process would be the Test Code, Subject, and Candidate Number only. ”These are administrative mechanisms and will have no bearing on the marking process whatsoever,” the Ministry has insisted. This development, however, has not found favour with former Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, who said that the fact that students will have to write their names on question papers would affect negatively the integrity of the assessment. Minister Roopnaraine insisted that this would not be the case. He reassured that the markers of the examination will not be in possession of the names of the candidates. “That is the major area of concern and a major area of abuse... The candidates’ names will not be available to the markers, that is her (Manickchand’s) main concern. It doesn’t matter where the candidates put their names; we have to ensure that names and numbers match. We don’t just want numbers and don’t have names to go with the numbers, and that is the only reason we want names,” Minister Roopnaraine explained. He added that the changes to the NGSA come at a time when the Ministry is looking to take the examination aspect out of the Grade Two and the Grade Four Assessments. The intent, according to Minister Roopnaraine, is to instead use the two examinations as diagnostic assessments that can essentially “point us in the direction that we believe that some corrective action be taken or so, but not have it count, as it previously was, towards Grade Six (NGSA).” Minister Roopnaraine had last year disclosed plans to consult with the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) to help improve the National Grade Two Assessment (NGTA), the National Grade Four Assessment (NGFA) and by extension the NGSA. The state of affairs that has obtained for a number of years is that the ascension to secondary schools require that five per cent
of each candidate’s NGTA score in Mathematics and English and 10 per cent of the NGFA score in the same subjects be added to 85 per cent of each candidate’s NGSA score in the same subject areas. The combined scores in Mathematics and English are added to the scores gained in
Science and Social Studies , thereby determining the secondary school a candidate is allowed to attend. It is not clear whether the Ministry has already consulted with CXC, but Minister Roopnaraine confidently informed that plans to revise the process were imminent.
Wednesday April 27, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Armed bandit grabs $2.5M from C’tyne businessman during home invasion
ROBBED: Akbar Ali An armed bandit on Monday evening stormed the home of a Corentyne businessman, carting off $2.5 million in local currency. According to information received, the businessman, 34-year-old Akbar Ali, was with his sister and other family members at their Lot 16 G, King Street, Belvedere, Corentyne residence when the bandit struck, sometime around 21:00hrs.
Relaying the four-minute ordeal, his sister 39-year-old Shurina Ali, stated that they were outside on the verandah with overseas relatives who had paid them a visit. She said that as soon as they were about to go inside, a masked man brandishing a knife and a gun pounced. “When we about to close de door, me see one boy jump from the side grill and come up on the verandah and he seh don’t move and we start holler ‘cause he had one short gun and a knife in he hand”. The still traumatized woman added that they then ran into different rooms. “When me run inside, meh go in the front room and lock up and me hear dem tell me family dem seh don’t holler or we gonna shoot”. Shurina Ali then mentioned that after securing her relatives, the man went after her brother. Meanwhile, her brother, Akbar Ali, said that he was in his room when he heard screams and approximately five seconds after, a masked man armed with a gun entered his room. “When he come in, he point he gun to me face and seh don’t move bring the money, so right away me open the safe and he tek out de money and go the same way he come and dah is it”, the man added. He highlighted that the police showed up about five minutes later and with the assistance of residents in the area, began searching for
Ali’s sister, Shurina, points to the safe.
the bandit who escaped on foot. Ali added that only a few persons knew that he had that amount of money at his residence. “This is de first time anything like this eva happen to me and meh family. Me nah know who coulda do this cause nah nuff people
know meh get money hay. Me scared now, cause you never know what coulda happen. Dem coulda kill we all”. The bandit also carried away one Plum cellular phone valued $26,000. No arrest has been made.
The Belvedere, Corentyne home of the businessman.
Drug addict charged with mother’s murder A drug addict who police say battered his mother to death, made his first court appearance yesterday at the Mahaica Magistrate’s Court. Fifty-three year-old Terrence Madray, of Good Faith, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, had a charge of murder read to him by Magistrate Sueanna Lovell. It is alleged that he murdered his 75-year-old mother Cecelia Madray at their home on April 21, last. The woman was discovered lying on her blood-covered floor with a wound on her head that night, by members of the area’s Community Policing Group (CPG). Clad in the same clothes he was wearing at the time of his arrest, the alleged killer, who was unrepresented by counsel was brought into the courtroom without much fuss, since many outraged villagers were unaware that he was being arraigned yesterday.
He stood quietly as the magistrate read the charge. Police prosecutor, Corporal Sheryl Graham will present the case that on the fateful night, the CPG members were contacted after neighbours heard a commotion in Madray’s house. When they went to the house and called out for Madray’s son, they got no answer. They were left with no other alternative but to break the door to get in. Once in, they made the gruesome discovery of the elderly woman lying on the floor covered by a mosquito net. The CPG members were told she fell on the steps two days prior to her discovery. However, the CPG members found no trace of blood on the stairs to support that story, and the woman’s son Terrence Madray who was in the house at the time was arrested and later
MURDERED: Cecelia Madray charged, after a post mortem examination revealed that the woman’s death was caused by an inflicted blow to the head. Terrence Madray was not required to plead and was remanded to prison until May 23rd when he will reappear at the Mahaicony Magistrate’s Court before the same magistrate.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Parents of murdered British teen to take remains back home The parents of murdered Epsom teenager Dominic Bernard are due to fly to Guyana tomorrow to take his body home. Andrew and Linda Bernard have faced an agonising four-month wait for DNA testing to confirm that the remains found in a shallow grave was that of their missing 18-year-old son. Wi t h t e s t s h a v i n g confirmed the worst, the couple is due to travel to South America to formally receive the body and begin the process of repatriating Dominic. Speaking to the Guardian ahead of their journey, Mr Bernard said: “We would like to update the people of Epsom and personally thank them for their support and prayers during this difficult time. “After nearly four months since the discovery of the body we have finally received the results of the DNA testing which confirmed the body
is that of our beloved son Dominic. “I am not sure whether to be happy or sad as we have been waiting so long, I don’t know what to feel to be honest.” Dominic disappeared shortly after travelling to Timehri in Guyana on October 14 last year to pursue his dream of becoming a filmmaker. He was supposed to return to England on November 5, but after he failed to return home, his family raised the alarm and an investigation was launched. D o m i n i c ’s badly decomposed body was discovered in a shallow grave on Friday, January 8 near to the area he was scheduled to stay in. A hammer - thought to be one of the murder weapons - was recovered. His godbrother, Aaron Hing, 22, and 23-year-old Staymon George have been charged with the murder, and a man and two women
also appeared before a judge in relation to the death. His father Andrew said the loss of Dominic had taken a terrible toll on his f a m i l y, d e s p i t e t h e m seeking comfort in their religious faith. “I came home from work on Friday and Madison, o u r y o u n g e s t d a u g h t e r, was in tears as she said she missed Dom,” he said. “I tried my best to comfort her but at the same time I felt so hopeless and wanted to cry with her. The bible says he will not give you more than you can handle but I’ll be honest and say I’m not sure how much more I can handle. “I need time to grieve for my son but at the same time I feel if I open the door to grieving I may not be able to close it and I don’t know where it will lead me. “My wife grieves daily for her son and as husband and father I struggle to know how to console her. “With the support from
TAXI DRIVER charged for murder of WAKENAAM BUSINESSMAN MURDERED: Mahendra Persaud
MURDER ACCUSED: Rawle Vieira
The taxi driver who is alleged to have run over the body of Wakenaam businessman Mahendra Persaud, after he was fatally shot by bandits, was yesterday charged and remanded to prison for murder. Rawle Vieira appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where he was not required to plead to the indictable charge. Particulars of the charge alleged that on April 19, at Georgetown, Vieira murdered Persaud during the course of a robbery. The unrepresented accused was remanded to prison until May 16, when he will appear before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore in Court Five. According to reports, the businessman who hailed from Good Success, Wakenaam, was shot by a gunman as he exited his canter on Alexander Street, Georgetown. Persaud fell and was subsequently run over by a car allegedly driven by the accused. It was reported that the police after reviewing CCTV footage from the area saw motor vehicle PVV 3157 trailing Persaud’s truck, shortly before a pillion rider on a CG motorcycle shot the businessman. The accused reportedly transported Persaud to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The charge against the accused comes following advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
friends, family and you we know we must press on for Dominic.” The family hopes to hold a short service for Dominic on Sunday May 1 while they are in Guyana, followed by a celebration of his life when they return to the UK. (www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk)
Murdered British teenager Dominic Bernard
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Govt. keen on pursuing secret companies here
Police nab bandits who beat, robbed Mazaruni dredge owner
Within the framework of Guyana’s commitment to prevent money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism, President David Granger says that his Government is keen on combing through the country for secret companies. In a recent interview with Kaieteur News, Granger said that any matter that is unlawful, such as the smuggling of gold, the removal of large sums of monies - whether they are being brought into Guyana by plane or removed; or overseas /offshore banking, which is in breach of the laws of Guyana, would be investigated. While media reports signal that there is a Guyanese connection to the Panama Papers saga, Granger said at the moment, he is not aware of this. He has indicated however that he will continue to follow developments in this regard. The Panama Papers are a set of 11.5 million leaked documents detailing attorney–client information for more than 214,000 offshore companies associated with the Panamanian law firm a n d c o r p o r a t e
Police in Guyana’s interior have come in for high praise following the capture of two bandits, less than a day after they battered and robbed a 42-year-old dredge owner in the Mazaruni area. The two men, a Guyanese and a Brazillian, had invaded the camp of Neil Jordan and relieved him of a quantity of raw gold after chopping him several times about his body on Sunday. Police in a statement said that on that day, Jordan who hails from Bartica, was at a mining camp at Farback Backdam, Mazaruni, when he was held up by two men armed with a firearm and a cutlass. “During the incident Neil Jordan was chopped to his body by the men who took away a quantity of raw gold and escaped.” The police said that ranks responded to the report and managed to intercept the two perpetrators on Monday night in Mazaruni. An unlicensed 9mm pistol with seven rounds and a cutlass were recovered by the police. Speaking with this newspaper yesterday, a relative of the wounded miner was loud in his praise for the police after learning that they had apprehended Jordan’s attackers. The relative related that although Jordan received chop wounds to his head and other parts of his body, for which he had to receive treatment in Bartica, he returned to the backdam on Monday to assist the police in apprehending the two men. Kaieteur News was told that on Sunday, Jordan and some of his workers were in the process of ‘washing down’ when the two men barged into their camp, firing shots into the air. Jordan’s workers became terrified and ran away to safety leaving the dredge owner behind to “face the music”. “They beat he and chop he in he head and on he hand,” Jordan’s relative said, adding that he was so badly wounded that he could not even ride his ATV to get to medical attention. “They had to hire a bike to bring him out,” the relative added. Upon arrival at Bartica, the wounded dredge owner reported the matter to the police before going to seek medical attention.
– Pres. Granger service provider, Mossack Fonseca. The leaked documents contain the identities of company shareholders and directors associated with Mossack Fonseca and illustrate how wealthy individuals, including public officials, hide assets from public scrutiny. The papers have identified five thenheads of state or government leaders from Argentina, Iceland, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates as well as government officials, close relatives, and close associates of various heads of government of more than forty other countries. The British Virgin Islands was home to half of the companies exposed and Hong Kong contained the most affiliated banks, law firms, and middlemen. While the use of offshore business entities is not illegal in the jurisdictions in which they are registered and often not illegal at all, international reporters found that some of the shell corporations seem to have been used for illegal purposes, including fraud, kleptocracy, tax evasion and evading international sanctions. An anonymous source using the pseudonym “John Doe” made the documents available in batches to German newspaper Süddeutsche
President David Granger Zeitung beginning in early 2015. The information from this unremunerated whistleblower documents transactions as far back as the 1970s and eventually totaled 2.6 terabytes of data. Given the scale of the leak, the newspaper enlisted the help of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), which distributed the documents for investigation and analysis to some 400 journalists at 107 media organizations in 76 countries. The first news reports based on the papers, and 149 of the documents themselves, were published on April 3, 2016. The ICIJ plans to publish a full list of companies involved in early May 2016.
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Kwakwani Hospital gets US$3,700 hydrocollator The Kwakwani Hospital in Region 10 now owns a US$3,700 hydrocollator. A hydrocollator is a heating unit used to heat up “hot packs” that can be used as heating pads on patients with athletic injuries to their joints and muscles. The unit was donated by overseas-based Guyanese, Mr. Lewis Robinson. Yesterday he handed over the unit to Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings.
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
Robinson, who lived in Kwakwani for some time while he lived in Guyana, explained that he visited the hospital recently and assessed that they needed this piece of equipment. He explained that from time to time he would make donations towards not only the health sector, but also towards sporting disciplines in Guyana. The Marine Engineer and Entrepreneur, who has been living in the United States of
America for some 35 years, explained that he saw the need for the equipment due to the fact that a lot of logging and sporting activities take place in the region. Robinson pointed out that logging involves a lot of lifting, bending and stretching and likewise, sporting disciplines such as Basketball and Football can result in muscle injuries. As such, this piece of equipment would be very useful in alleviating the pain
associated with injuries of that nature. Additionally, this particular Hydrocollator can also be used to sterilize medical instruments. Robinson noted that he has recognised that there is more equipment that the hospital needs and he is open to making more donations in the future. Meanwhile, Minister Cummings in receiving the Hydrocollator on behalf of the Ministry expressed gratitude for the generous donation. She pointed out that Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton, would be particularly happy about the donation, since he had visited the Kwakwani Hospital recently and knows the equipment will come in handy. “We are very appreciative of persons from the Diaspora coming and giving back to the
Mr. Lewis Robinson hands over the hydrocollator to Minister Karen Cummings.
country and as we celebrate our Golden Jubilee, it is certainly a very timely gesture. We want to promise you that we are going to make use of
the equipment so that we can be able to improve our service delivery to the citizens of Guyana,” Dr. Cummings added.
Guyanese man shot dead in Trinidad (Trinidad Guardian) One man was killed and another critically injured in a shooting incident in San Fernando yesterday. The dead man was identified as Guyanese national Kemraj Persad, 30, a construction worker, of Hummingbird Avenue, Duncan Village. Eyewitnesses said Persad, another man identified as Sean Boodoo, and the shooter were having drinks and liming at an apartment when an argument broke out and the suspect shot the two men.
Shot dead: Kemraj Persad Boodoo, who also lived at the same apartment, was shot in the chest and was listed in critical condition in San
Fernando General Hospital. A villager said he heard three explosions and thought it was fire crackers. He said he saw a man running up the road with blood on his chest. Police said the shooter escaped in a car. Residents said the men had been renting the apartment for over a year. Another tenant, Kumar Shivprashad, pleaded for financial help to send Persad’s body back to Guyana as he came from a poor family. So far 149 people have been killed for this year.
Wednesday April 27, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Citizens to benefit from massive GWI upgrades - CEO Chief Executive of Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) Dr Richard Van-West Charles has highlighted several key projects that GWI has embarked upon that are to see quality service and water provided country-wide. Dr Van-West Charles told Kaieteur News that since taking over as the Chief Executive in the latter months of 2015, it has been his priority to see that there is adequate and high quality water provided to Guyanese. GWI recently benefitted through loans from the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB); these loans have funded the ongoing Water Sanitation project in Georgetown. The project involves the rehabilitation of the waste water system and making the pumping stations more efficient as well as replacing some of the sewage lines. The project is also supposed to improve the quality of water provided in the capital city and help with the flooding situation that often plagues Georgetown. As an added
Chief Executive of GWI, Dr. Richard Van-West Charles measure, a mass drug distribution is planned, with medication to deal with Filaria and other parasites. “There is a planned water treatment project targeting Linden, in terms of the water treatment facilities at Wisroc and Amelia’s Ward. It is taking water from the Dakara creek, surface water that is; treating it and distributing it,” Dr VanWest Charles disclosed He said that since coming on board with GWI in October 2015, there have been some
delays, as he met “errors in the design of the treatment system.” “These errors are in the process of being rectified. The water treatment project has been somewhat stalled due to these errors by persons contracted to design the system. “Some of the reservoirs had some problems which have since been corrected. We are also in the process of looking at the amount of water that is being produced in relation to the demand; I think some errors were made in the calculations before the project got going and what we had to do was recommission some of the treatment plants instead of decommissioning them. “We have had problems in Linden concerning water loss, because it is difficult to discern where the water is because of the sandy soil, it is not easy to identify these losses. We have had some dedicated teams in Linden going around trying to correct these leaks, because what happens is that the water
pressure drops and the quality of the water drops, in addition to the possibility of bacteria entering the waterlines, so we have been aggressively addressing these issues.” Residents of Diamond, Sheet Anchor and Uitvlugt can also look forward to new water treatment facilities in the future, as Dr Van-West Charles said that GWI is going to be tendering them internationally within the next few weeks. The deadline for completion of these treatment plants is October 2019. He also stated that GWI’s analysis shows that Diamond may require two additional wells as the one at present is not adequate. He continued that GWI is now looking at those issues. Dr Van-West Charles touched briefly on the filtration system in Georgetown stating that the one in the Shelter Belt was not functioning adequately; that the 10 filter systems were at a level of 25% efficiency. “Our engineers are now making the corrections and
we have ordered new filtration media and they are expected to be in place by the end of July, the media should be here by June, but the installation takes some time.” “The level of filtration and water purity in Georgetown should improve significantly by August, so we are striving aggressively to ensure that the water we provide is up to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.” GWI currently has a couple of plants that are not functioning that would be replaced by treatment facilities, proposed sites are Friendship on the East Coast of Demerara and Caledonia on the East Bank. The issue of demand for more water supply and production should be rectified by more wells and water treatment facilities across Guyana. Dr Van-West Charles stated that these proposed facilities and wells would be constructed, once GWI is granted access to funds from a grant by the British government. Should this
grant be accessed, residents of Charity in Essequibo could see water being provided via a well and treatment facility. GWI’s boundaries did not include villages along the highway, prior to Dr Van-West Charles coming, and he stated that communities such as Silver Hill should be accessing water in the near future. When asked about the cost for all these proposed upgrades and projects, he said that it would be some US$15 million and all projects are funded via loans. Asked if tariffs would be raised, he replied that because of the cost of these upgrades, tariffs would have to be raised but not by much. He also said that the Public Utilities Commission would have to approve these tariffs before they are applied.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Linden M&TC, RDC launch ‘Clean up Linden Project’ The Linden Mayor and Town Council in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council on Monday launched the ‘50th Jubilee Clean Up Linden project’ in the Mayor and Town Council Boardroom. The Cleanup Project which is slated to be on April 29 and April 30, will be done in all communities of the Region. Chairman of the Environmental Committee Wainwright Bethune urged all citizens to come out and clean their surroundings. “This is a collaborative effort between the entire Linden and the stakeholders because if you look at the town, from Bamia to Third Phase Wisroc, much is desired.” Bethune is urging everyone to come out and clean their yards, drains and also urged the CDC’s to take responsibility and pilot the cleanup project and beautify the town. According to Bethune, May is a very significant month not only for Linden
but for Guyana as a whole. “You know we are celebrating our 50th anniversary as a nation, 46 years as a town and 100 years of bauxite mining in the community.” Deputy Mayor, Wanita Arrindell, told media operatives that the Clean up project is geared to enhance the town for the 50th anniversary. “The Town Council is asking all to come out and clean up. We pledge for those with the overburden, the stuff you cannot bury or burn, we are pledging our sanitary workers to assist.” According to the Deputy Mayor, flowers could also be planted to make Linden look good for the 50th. Regional Chairman Renis Morian said he is happy that the initiative began with the M&TC and the RDC could be a part. He said that the RDC councilors will have to be a part and clean up not just Linden but Region Ten. “This is our time, so it is very important for us to come out and cleanup.”
Morian also urged the media to come out not only with their cameras but with their spades and other tools to assist. “This is a Linden thing, a people thing; a collective effort.” He claimed that the focus is to clean up “some people interpret clean up as just weeding and carting away debris and stuff but in a general sense it is to clean your space.” The Regional Chairman added that soon the Regional Tree Planting Programme will begin; while he is not pushing for flowers the Regional Councilors are working to determine what kind of trees will be planted across the Region. Morian noted that the programme is not just the RDC but also the CDC’s. He said it is in keeping with the president’s green programme and it is not flowers he is talking about. According to Morian it is hoped that the Regional tree planting programme will be launched by the second week in May.
Police get mattresses from Canadian-based businessman
Assistant Commissioner Christopher Griffith (left) receives part of the donation from Mr. Pramchand Punwasi, while other Senior Officers look on. Guyanese businessman, Pramchand Punwasi, who is resident in Canada, and is the owner of Canadian Surplus (Guyana) presented 20 beds, complete with mattresses, to the Guyana Police Force, to assist with the comfortable accommodation of ranks at stations. The donation was made
at a simple ceremony at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary. Mr. Punwasi said that it was a pleasure for him to make the donation, as it was only fitting for him to contribute to his country, and he felt that the Guyana Police Force would be one of the best places to start
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood.
in view of its responsibility in maintaining public safety and security. Assistant Commissioner “Operations”, Christopher Griffith, who accepted the articles on behalf of the Police Force, and in the presence of other Senior Officers, expressed sincere gratitude to the donor for what he termed a “timely gesture” which will do well for the improvement of the welfare of members of the Force.
From left: Regional Chairman Renis Morian, Deputy Mayor Wanita Arrindell and M&TC Councilor and Chairman of the Environmental Committee, Wainwright Bethune
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Dharm Shala celebrated its 95th birthday yesterday. First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger joined Ms. Kella and Ms. Pamela Ramsaroop, donors, well-wishers, family and friends of the Dharm Shala Home of Benevolence for All Races to mark its anniversary. Describing the genesis of the Dharm Shala, Ms. Pamela Ramsaroop said that her grandfather, Pandit Ramsaroop Maraj, travelled widely across Guyana and was moved by the plight of the needy. She said that before he founded the Dharm Shala with assistance from the Hindu Religious Society, he started out by giving alms, introduced indigent persons to religion and started a soup kitchen with assistance from businessmen and residents in the Albouystown area. “A devout practicing Hindu”, who also appreciated the teachings of Christianity, Pandit Maraj’s compassion and commitment to the poor knew no bounds. In 1941, twenty years after he established the Albouystown facility, the Dharm Shala extended its services to Berbice, where it established a building of similar capacity and erected a temple and a church to serve its residents and the wider community. When Pandit Maraj died his son, Harry Ramsaroop, dedicated 29 years of his life in service to the poor. Today, Ms. Kella Ramsaroop serves as the Dharm Shala’s Managing Director and works alongside her sister, Pamela, to operate the home. Mrs. Granger heaped praised on
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Kaieteur News
A section of the audience at the 95th anniversary celebrations of the Dharm Shala. Mr. Yesu Persaud, former Chairman of Demerara Distillers Limited and Dr. Manorma Soeknandan, Deputy Secretary-General of the CARICOM Secretariat, are pictured in the foreground. the Ramsaroops who have ably filled the vacuum left following the death of their father Mr. Harry Saran Ramsaroop in 2013. , who himself had taken up the mantle of leadership after his father, founder of the Dharm Shala, Pandit Maraj died in 1950. “This family has served and cared for those in need for nearly one century, and it continues to
serve. That dedication is all the more remarkable in an age where so much store is being put in material things, where success is rated by material possessions and social position,” Mrs. Granger said. “We must commend Kella and Pamela for keeping faith with their grandfather’s and father’s dreams and for devoting themselves to the Dharm Shala.”
Mr. Nicholas Boyer, of National Hardware Limited, remarked that the warmth, which pervades the Dharm Shala is a testimony to Pandit Ramsaroop and the values that he passed down to his son and granddaughters. He commended the family’s life of service to the poor, noting that it has inspired his family and has been the impetus, which motivated his
and other families and donors’ involvement in the charity. Mr. Ron Robinson, who served as the Master of Ceremonies extended gratitude to Mr. Winston Humphrey of Humphrey’s Bakery for providing the “daily bread” for the home, Mrs. Kissoon of the Water Chris hotel, who has been providing the Christmas luncheon for the past 40 years, the children of the American School, who provide the Christmas presents for residents and are responsible for all the festive decorations, Pastor Erskine and the staff of the Berbice Dharm Shala and Mrs. Rensford Rodney and Ms. Shelly Phillips for their service. Several persons, who have contributed, over the years, to the continuation of the charitable work started by Pandit Ramsaroop in 1921, attended the milestone observance. These included Ms. Vanda Radzik, who chaired the event, Ms. Dorothy Fraser, General Secretary of the Guyana Red Cross Society, notable business man and former Chairman of Demerara Distillers Limited, Mr. Yesu Persaud, Mr. Sattaur and Mrs. Ameena Gafoor of Gafsons Enterprise, Dr. Manorma Soeknandan, Deputy SecretaryGeneral of the Caribbean Community Secretariat, Ms. Patricia David, Executive Director of Adult Education in Guyana and Ms. Shirley Baynes-Moore, Lay Minister and Diocesan Restores Person, of St. Phillips’s Anglican Church and the St Francis of Assisi Chapel built by the Ramsaroop clan for their Albouystown community.
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Kaieteur News
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Male and female to work interior shop assistant, salary -$80,000 monthly. Call: 6741767; 664-5199; 685-8780
Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Building Construction: house plans & estimates, floor sanding, lacquering & painting, boat for Santa Mission - Call: 650-4362 INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.
Carpenters & Masons – Call: 615-7526; 668-9863 Janitors/Porters -$2,000 per day. Call: 225-2618 between 10am to 3pm General Domesticrequirements: (1) age 25 to 45years; (2) cooking experience. Call: 226-1100; 226-5380 1 Maid for East Bank areaCall: 614-4358 We seriously pay cash for land; we clean & pay legal fees, ten years, no problem. Call: 611-7223; 604-2207
Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045
FOOD DISTRIBUTOR COMPANYLOOKINGFOR SALES PERSON WITH CAR FOR BERBICE, ESSEQUIBO, BARTICA & GEORGETOWN. CALL: 231-8529 OR 231-8344
Repairs to LED, Plasma, LCD and all other electronic equipment. Ordering of circuit boards. Abdul Electronic- Call: 225-0391
Experienced cashier, counter servers, roti/puri cook, curry cook, waiter boys. Apply at Hack’s Halaal, 5 Commerce St.
Divine Diva’s , Independence Special! Flatter Stomach in 1 week or money back guarantee. Call: 684-9409 Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:6294946 or 225-4822 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158
TOURS Suriname Tours: Labour Day Weekend April 29, 2016May, 2nd 2016 & Indian Arrival Weekend May 5th8th, 2016. Call: 663-5171; 6927270; 639-2663; 223-0056
TAXI SERVICES GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
Earn certificate in: cosmetology, nails, wig designs or hair cutting, etc. Register Now! Call Abby: 666-5241; 619-7603
Republic Park family needs an experienced caregiver, live in, 1 week on 1 week off$13,000. Call: 667-2535
French Moscovy Duckling $450 each-Call: 644-8171 FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park with free WiFi, recently renovated, 2 bedrooms - $70,000. Call: 6413318 Three bedrooms flat on 347 East Street for rent, residence or business. Call: 223-4565; 672-3161 One bedroom apartment parking & other conveniences for working couples -$30,000- Call: 6238759 & 696-6715 Fully furnished apartment for rent-Call: 682-9021
1 Domestic worker to work @ Star Guest House; 60-61 Hadfield Street Werk-enRust. Call Donald: 227-1131; 664-7412/ Sheik: 621-9759 1 Truck Driver/ Forklift Operator, I Supervisor @ Boodhoo’s General Store, Parika. Contact# 650-0402/ 260-4988 One live in domestic, age 2240yrs, serious person onlyCall: 225-6571; 644-6905 Assistant to work in kitchen (both male & female), age 2535 @ Annadale E.C.D, next to modern graphics. Call: 6873640 One tractor operator must know about rice to work in Mahaicony River. Call: 2256571; 644-6905
Canter windscreens, 1-4D 36 Engine Head, 2 4D-32 Engine Block, 2-4D -32 Crank Shaft, 1-4D-35 Crank Shaft- Call: 609-7260; 216-4362 Sale! Sale! 3116 Cat Engine$1,150,000; 3208 Cat Engine$850,000; 3406 Cat Engine$1,250,000- Contact# 6500402/260-4988 House Lots for sale $3.9M @ Boodhoo’s Housing Scheme, Blankenburg. Contact#650-0402/260-4988 Unbeatable Prices!!! Spacio$2,095,000; Ist-$1,995,000; Fielder-$1,995,000-Contact# 650-0402/260-4988 Unbeatable Prices!!! Audi A4-$3,750,000; BMW 318i$2,750,000; Premio 2008$2,850,000- Contact#6500402/260-4988 1-Cat 928 F Wheel Loader$7.3M; 1-Light Tower$850,000; 1-Perkins Welding Plan-$850,000- Contact#6500402/260-4988 14.5 Ft. Fibre glass boat with tilt trailer and 35 Horse power, mercury motor. Call: 678-9536
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807 Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494
EDUCATIONAL I.A.E Classes for CSEC January/June 2017: Mathematics, English A, Business & Science Subject for Students, Adults & repeaters. Call: 683-5742
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. 1-30’ ALUMINUM JET BOAT – CALL: 668-3130 Honda CRV: lady driven, PLL series, good condition, $1.8M negotiable. Call: 2205580/ 681-2995 Household items: fridge, curtains, cupboard, gas stove with bottle, Sony music system. Call: 688-5446; 688-5446
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving Schoolat Maraj Building- Tel:6445166;622-2872;615-0964;689-5997
Spare for washing machine, microwaves,fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc. Call:225-9032;647-2943;6045198
Wednesday April 27, 2016
VACANCY Hair, nail, barber stations for rental; (experienced persons & clients) all rounder hairdressing – Glam & Go Beauty Salon. Call: 638-1106 Driver & porter to deliver water- apply @ Nimbus Water 79 Albert & Lamaha Street. Call: 231-7002; 6220445; 685-7659 Popular East Coast Gas Station Day/Night: pump attendants, sales clerk & office assistant. Contact: 6719570; 695-9880,Non-Pareil Food Distribution Company looking for salesperson with driver’s licence, experience & police clearance. Call: 2318344 or 231-8529 One Trainee A.C, Refrigerator, Technician - Call: 231-0655
Housekeeping staff, male desk staff and male security guard- Call: 225-0198 or visit 233 South Road, Lacytown 1PORTERLIVINGAROUND DIAMOND/GROVE AREA. CALL: 677-6620 Experienced office clerk with 5 CXC subjects, computer literate, experience in QuickBooks. Call:218-5105 or email application: info@cevons.com Marketing Personnel, computer literate knowledge of QuickBooks (3yrs) preferably from Georgetown Area. Call: 680-2095; 697-0703 1 Maid should be good in cooking and housekeeping, 1helper/maid needed in a beauty spa. Call: 231-0734 Cook/baker for the Interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020
LAND FOR SALE
Titled 70’x100’ land @ Eccles, E.B.D for sale at $3.9M -Tel : 624 2857 Prime corner lot in La Parfaite Harmonie, way upfront (48ftX90ft with reserve) already graded & land filled -$3M. Call: 611-7223; 6042207 La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.3M, Eccles (100ftX50ft) -$5.5M, Herstelling New Scheme(100ftX50ft)-$3M. Call: 6117223; 604-2207
AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BRR, RZ & Pitbull,Pajero Junior: Cash / terms - Call: 680-3154 One Toyota IST 2007 Model, PRR series, female driven, in excellent condition. Call: 673-6250 New Arrival! Oswin ‘J’ Imports: 2007-2011 Premio; 2007-2010 Allion; 2008 Fielder. Call: 609-2815 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 Toyota Hilux Surf, 3Y engine 1998 cc 4wd, power windows, sunroof, AC, AM/FM/USB Stereo. Call: 678-9536
PRODUCTIONASSISTANT, GTI or GITC graduates preferred. Resident of E.B.D. Tel. 676 6700 1 Female cleaner apply @ Technical Service 18-23 Industrial Site, Eccles.
Jet-Ski for sale: 1500cc, super charged. Brand New! Call: 231-7839 during office hours 1 House lot in Crane Housing Scheme & 1 house & land in La Parfaite Harmonie. Call: 626-4841
VEHICLE FOR SALE
PROPERTY FOR SALE Flat house in Grove, (corner property) 1 Block from main road, price negotiable. Call: 1905-626-2572 Transported property @ Grove $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 One newly built two storey three bedrooms concrete house in Eccles New Scheme for -$22M. Call: 675-5618; 644-9356 Property @ Lot 87 Albert Street- Call: 669- 8701 Property @ lot 32 Princess St. Werken –Rust, Georgetown. Call: 621-8767
TO LET 2 Bedrooms house to rent Timehri. Call: 658-4754 6 Bedrooms with bathroom each room, furnished, great for NGO’S, expats, 30 mins from Georgetown -$3900US monthly. Call: 600-0036; 2231273 Modernized 2 bedrooms apartments in a safe environment. Call: 698-6496 4 Bedrooms upper flat at Grove, E.B.D-Call: 693-4075 Three bedrooms lower flat apartment in Bougainvillea Park and one two bedrooms house in Eccles. Call: 6167635 NOTICE Be careful of those who say they buy land! We truly pay cash for lands. Call: 611-7223; 604-2207
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
CAROL JOSEPH ACCUSES PPP PARLIAMENTARIAN OF ASSAULT DEAR EDITOR, Kindly permit me to respond to Mr. Harry Gill’s letter that was published in your newspaper on Sunday 24th April, 2016. Editor, I would like to deal categorically with the issues that Mr. Gill raised. 1. I was travelling in a hire car some time prior to the 2015 General and Regional Elections and Mr. Harry Gill was speaking to two young ladies about the People’s National Congress (PNC) and Mr. Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. Sir, the lies that he was pedaling was more than I could take so as a proud member of the PNC I set the records straight much to his displeasure for he was trying to mislead these two young ladies who were not even born at the time of Mr. Burnham’s tenure and even at the time of his death. 2. Editor, during the November 2015 Remembrance Ceremony at the Regional Democratic Council Compound I was given Poppies by the Deputy Regional Executive Officer Mr. Govind Singh to give to the Regional Councillors present, the Regional Vice Chairman Mr. Rion Peters who is a Councillor was standing in the company of Mr. Gill when I gave him his poppy I then went on to give the other Councillors, a few minutes after Mr. Gill approached me and introduced himself as Region No. 5 Member of Parliament and I told him he was not our Member of Parliament for we have two Members of Parliament Ms. Jennifer Wade and Ms. Priya Manickchand, he then said that he is representing Ms. Manickchand who could not make it, I then directed him to the Regional Chairman and never uttered another word to him for the balance of the day. 3. I am at loss to understand the encounter Mr. Gill spoke about at the Woodlands/Belair NDC Office for I won the second prize at the Survival Supermarket Christmas 2015 Bonanza which was a Trip for Four to Jamaica, I departed Guyana on OJ 262 Fly Jamaica
with my three family members on the evening of Friday April 01, 2016 and returned on the evening of Thursday April 07, 2016 on OJ 263 Fly Jamaica (See attached documentation to substantiate my response). The Election to which Mr. Gill wrote about took place on Tuesday April, 05, 2016. 4. Editor, the Thursday April 21st, 2016 encounter of which Mr. Gill referred to in his letter is nothing but a figment of his imagination. On Sunday April 17th, 2016 on the Programme ‘Perspective’ Mr. Zulfikar Mustapha, Regional Chairman and Regional Vice Chairman publicly called on the people of Region No. 5 to come out in their numbers and support them at the Regional Statutory Meeting. Editor, the people came out but not in support of the PPP/C but in support of the Coalition Councillors who are demanding an apology from The Regional Chairman Mr. Vickchand Ramphal who disrespected His Excellency on two occasions, January 15, 2016 when he did not show up for handing over of two school buses to the Region and on March 5, 2016 at Foulis West Coast Berbice at a public meeting where he referred to His Excellency the President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, as a ‘Jackass’. Editor, the picketing exercise was very peaceful. At about 10:30 hrs, I was standing in the middle of the entrance of the Boardroom Compound singing along with the residents when Mr. Harry Gill armed with a camera minus the tripod that he claimed he had passed very close to my right and he on passing raised his elbow and hit me at the right side of my right breast I immediately reported it to the Police Officers present who advised me to make a report at the Fort Wellington Police Station next door. I complied and was given a medical form to go see the doctor. I then returned to the Boardroom and spoke to the Regional Health Officer who was present and who advised me that I would have to have the area x-rayed. I left the
Boardroom en route to the Fort Wellington Hospital when somewhere in the vicinity of the entrance to the boardroom compound and the public road I felt a sharp pain which caused me to fall and all I can remember is waking up to persons fanning me and hearing the calls of persons for the ambulance. Editor, I was assisted by several persons all of whom can attest to the assault by Mr. Gill. On or around this time, the Commander of “B” Division arrived and advised the persons present that it is illegal to block the entrance of the Boardroom, I then echoed his call and left for the Fort Wellington Hospital with a private car. Editor, Mr. Harry Gill made mention in his letter that I am suspended from the Council, well I would be happy to know from him when this happen since he did mention that since January 2016 the Council did not hold a Statutory Meeting. Editor, Mr. Harry Gill’s comments of hindering the progress of Region No. 5 should be associated with the PPP/C Councillors who in 2015 and 2016 refused to vote on the Budget presented. The Honourable Minister of Communities gave all the Regional Chairmen of the Administrative regions a document to discuss, Regional Development at Council level since June 2015 to date that document never reached the council, when the Coalition Councillors asked about the document the Regional Chairman said that the PPP/ C rejects the document. Editor, it is disgraceful when at a statutory meeting of the council a PPP/C councillor called His Excellency a criminal and the Regional Chairman did not discipline her. Editor, if standing up to the PPP/C for disrespecting the President, His Excellency Mr. David Arthur Granger is disgraceful then I will continue to be disgraceful until His Excellency is apologized to by the Regional Chairman Mr. Vickchand Ramphal. Carol Joseph Region 5 Councilor
THE REALITY IS THAT EDITORS WILL HAVE PREFERENCES DEAR EDITOR, It goes without saying that true freedom of expression can only be had by who owns a newspaper/publication. I am not defending a vulgar free for all, no! I am speaking from the standpoint of all things being equal. One can talk cheese; for all the tea in China that wouldn’t change, who owns a paper control and has the final say. Thus they can do as they please, write what they feel and think; twist situations to suit themselves, push the slant when its convenient and even indulge in the ridiculous when they feel the need to in the most brazen way and have the temerity to defend it. Outsiders are limited and subject to the prerogative of the owner. All the excessive pretence about free expression are more talks than actuality, one is only allowed so far and no more, at the end of the day you are kept in line. Editors protect friends, influential high profile personalities, friendly cooperation’s and big business; and
being only human cannot always completely avoid the subjective, thus some become easily hyper-sensitive when point of views are diametrically opposite to what they believe and stand for and is seen as a line of attack. It cannot be off line in saying that quite a number of editors are often seized by a fit of paranoia and not propitious when radical views surface challenging their fixation and regarded as the very antithesis encroaching upon their sacred beliefs and practices. Editor, some editors definitely stretch their prerogative too far – beyond their boundary – stripping articles bone dry as dust, smart and lively expressions are tossed out as irrelevant and unnecessary, not to mention those that are confined to the trash bin without a second thought, even when they know what you’re saying make sense, only because it gnaw their conscience and makes them uncomfortable. Editing no doubt is a sine qua non for any publication period, no
publication could last without it, and it ought to enhance the quality of the writer’s material so that the message reaches its destination and connects with sparkling clarity. Stripping articles thread bare to basic; deleting all that doesn’t fit in with the stereotype rendering it flat and dry, listless and dull! can never always be the best thing, but distasteful as this is, the contributor has no other choice other than to cease making submission or live with it. Editor, I once came across a Mutt & Jeff comic strip in which the reporter handed over his report to his editor who became furious after reading it and berated him for unnecessary ramblings, “facts, facts, I want facts, the bare essentials and make it brief” he shouted as he flung the report back to him. The reporter rewrote the story and handed it to him, it read: “J. Smith looked up the shaft of the Wallaby Hotel to see if the elevator was coming down. It was! Age 45. That’s essentials for you folks. Frank Fyffe
PAGE 29
In defence of the neighbourhood police DEAR EDITOR, I write in response to article published on page 19 of the Kaieture News, dated March 25 2016 captioned ‘Ranks saying Neighborhood Police have out lived their usefulness’. Being an active member of the Neighborhood Police for over nine years I am very perturbed at the blatant misconception of the use of N.H.P specifically targeted in ‘B’ Division. It is obvious that the writer of the article has serious grudges over this particular group of helpers which are meant to be the eyes and ears of the Guyana Police Force. It is sad to note that the misdemeanor of a few Police ranks attracts widespread condemnation of the Police Force, similarly a few negligent members of the N.H.P has caused some selfish Police Officer/s of the Regular Police Department to lash out in hate and fury labeling this vital group of police assistants as ‘barefaced’. Some members of the Police Force are very uncomfortable having the N.H.P working in the communities because the injustices meted out to civilians whenever they visit the stations are being relayed to these N.H.P’s simply because they belong to these communities, are less corrupted and share a better interpersonal relationship. I do agree that there are N.H.P members who deserve to be at home seeking employment elsewhere but at the same time there are some of us who serve as refreshers to regular ranks who have graduated from the Police Training College and have just ventured out into the world of practical policing Some of us work acidulously in our communities with youth and even lend helping hands at stations when the need arises. Subordinate Officers who are honest can attest to the fact that at some stations in the ‘B’ Division, the N.H.P plays pivotal roles in service and protection while the Regular Ranks play a secret role in lawlessness and corruption. I wish to bring to the attention of some S/O’s in charge of stations, the risks of N.H.P’s becoming enemies to the persons in their Neighborhood whom they might have arrested, corrected of even shared information to the police leading up to jail terms and courts intervention. This generalization is very dangerous and should be brought to a halt since good results are gained through good relationships and respect for all humans regardless of designation. One famous song artist sang “A man is still a man whether him wear jacket and tie or him walk barefoot, the only difference is whether him good or evil. I think that instead of trying to take bread out of the mouth of a group of primarily women who are mostly single parents, the writer of the article should try to seek ways and means of fostering a strong working relationship with members of the Neighborhood Police who might at this time feel very unfortunate having being placed under the supervision of a subordinate who wants to declare war on a bunch of people who seem to be suffering from inferiority complex. Janecia Carmichael
More still to be done... (From page 22) included. But according to PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow, the Government of Guyana, in collaboration with the PAHO/WHO, developed a plan for integrating Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) into the routine immunization schedule, nationwide. “The introduction of IPV was an important component of the strategic goals of disease eradication and routine immunisation strengthening that contribute to the efforts of Guyana’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation,” said Dr. Adu Krow. This comprehensive Polio Strategy, he disclosed, has led to the interruption of polio transmission in Guyana, contributing to the region becoming the first region in the world to be certified polio-free by the WHO. As such, he noted that sustaining gains on polio and other vaccine preventable diseases and building on this success through the introduction of new vaccines is a top priority for Guyana. To kick off its observance, the Region Six Health Services, along with MCH, held a walk on Monday to commemorate the launch of Vaccination Week 2016. This year, Vaccination Week is being held under the theme: “Going for Gold, Get Vaccinated.” After assembling along Main Street in Stanleytown, a contingent of about 300 persons consisting of nurses, and other regional health workers were led by the Regional Director of Health Services, Mr. Jevon Stevens and Minister Cummings.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 27, 2016
THE VOICE OF THE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS...
The power of executive disruption By Sase Singh INTRODUCTION
After observing the Ramotar tenure of leadership, the majority of us knew in 2015 that change was inevitable. With change, it is normal to expect executive disruption and turbulence, which if not handled skillfully, can adversely affect a country’s moral, economy and future. Over the last 11 months, we have seen firsthand, a less desired transition plan. Executive transition need not be this messy, especially when it is professionally done. The latest episode of this very challenging executive environment is the recruitment of the CEO of the NCN. But I will deal with that abnormality in another column. I have been through a few executive transitions in my professional life and there are a few essential ingredients that are nonnegotiable in this process, such as a carefully crafted plan that has to be effectively communicated to the stakeholders (especially the people). Where are the political, economic and investment plans of this coalition Government? Who is monitoring and evaluating the implementation of these plans? How are we really addressing the great domestic problems of the nation, be it the energy insecurity crisis or the ailing economy or the mismanagement of the agriculture sector? PLANNING FOR THE DISRUPTION, ADAPTIVE LEADERSHIP Let me be very clear, the CEO of the country may be the most important political personality, but he is not the most important element in a transition. Choosing the right team and positioning them in the right roles to help him charter the future course is even more crucial. I want to be very blunt because this situation requires bluntness. Which Ministry has done the greatest harm to the sustainability of this Coalition government, both politically and economically over the last 11 months? Where does Guyana secure major
chunks of its foreign income to replenish its host the CPL finals. Lovely decision to “drink foreign reserves? This is a serious bread and some more, get drunk some more and lie down some more” for 2 or 3 days at best and then butter issue? The under-performance of the top what? The long-term reality will not change executives in the Ministry of Agriculture, with such decisions. Policy-driven politically, administratively and most expenditures remain critical to achieve important strategically, has actually done the widespread impact, not pet projects with a greatest harm to the Granger Presidency. very narrow reach. This is not how you run a country. Unfortunately, because of the But thanks to social media, lackluster performance in this the millennials are aware of sector, the Coalition what is going on and they are government has been surgically exercising greater influence on disconnected from key groups the conversation today; let us of stakeholders and the Local not discount them. For Government Elections (LGE) example, the Minister of made this case very clear. What Agriculture made an passes for strategy in the announcement in a very hurried Ministry of Agriculture is a manner on the Wales Sugar national embarrassment. Estate. Irrespective of what The millennials exploded on happens in Georgetown, rural the issue and guess what was folks will always have “stew in the outcome? More people in their pot”, whether they have Guyana are stepping back and work or not. reflecting on the real situation These people will survive as a result of the voices of these irrespective of the economic youthful advocates and it is state of Guyana; they can live Sase Singh having an adverse impact on off the land and they have a the Granger administration. clearly established support Let us look at the outcome from one of network with the Diaspora that will allow them to fly under the radar for years without these debates. The PPP won 44.2 percent of the votes in worrying about the central government and urban Guyana. So why is there this 1994 in the Toevlugt/Patentia NDC (Wales provocation of the rice, sugar and other Estate and more) but scored 54.2 percent in 2016 in the same district. These results are portions of the agriculture sector? This economy is not on a stable generated with the background that this NDC foundation today; that is an irrefutable point. is split relatively evenly between the two main This is not about blame, because it is a fact racial groups of Guyana. For the PPP to win, this NDC can be that Granger administration was dealt a less than favourable deck of cards by the PPP in considered an electoral miracle. But because May 2015, but since then what? What have the Wales situation was mishandled at the we done progressively with that deck of cards highest level in the Ministry of Agriculture, the PPP was provided with a political especially on the income side? To compound this mess, too much opportunity on a silver platter. attention continues to be paid to non-valued CAPITALIZING ON THE DISRUPTION; added expenditure. Such a strategy is TRANSFORMATION extremely self-centered on the part of the executives since all boats are not rising in The Ministry failed to lead the Guyana as a result of these expenditures, or at best, they provide fleeting moments of stakeholders in this period of expected ecstasy, but that is not human development. disruption and transition by capitalizing on Let us take for example the decision to this situation to create new economic value
on the West Demerara. Not one new idea was put forward from his office save and except an idea to rehabilitate the canal connecting Wales to Uitvlugt. Talk to anyone in the sugar industry and they will advise you that such an idea is delusional at best. Economic and social uncertainty has been injected into the lives of the people. An entire government today is paying a heavy political price for this calamity that has invaded the agriculture sector. Four years remain in this term and it is my opinion that much can still be done, but timely executive action is urgently required. This 50th anniversary can be used as the platform to clearly establish a departure from the same old attitudes. This agriculture portfolio is dying for new leadership, with a re-focused strategy. It requires political experience that can focus on the needs of the stakeholders, but with a commitment to include the people in the process. That means transformational leadership. Not many in Cabinet fit the bill, but I am confident there is one person in the Granger Cabinet who can better deliver the bacon. How this sector evolves over the next four years and what impact it will have on the Granger legacy is already being determined and if this status quo continues in the agriculture sector, the consequences will be dire for the Coalition government. CONCLUSION At the end of the day, the buck stops at one and only one desk, and that desk is only as strong as the decisions made and the execution of those decisions. There has to be a clear roadmap that will allow for the government to conduct the strategic analysis, make the strategic choices, and implement these choices in a diligent and timely manner. In the absence of such a strategic framework, the nation will be in for a rocky ride. Such a situation for any organization, be it a business, a charity or a government is unsustainable and in the case of a government; political “hara-kiri”. Can the Coalition afford such political huge risks?
Wednesday April 27, 2016
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Kaieteur News
NICIL supports Sithe Global’s BaiShanLin continues to operate through local logging companies $$M Amaila expense By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell Revelations by the various audit reports are endless. The forensic audit report into the operations of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has revealed that its Chief Executive Officer, Winston Brassington, established an account in the name of Sithe Global and charged all expenditure it incurred for the project to that account. Sithe Global is the company that had become both developer and investor in the Amaila Falls Hydro Electricity Project. The company bought its developing licence from Makeshwar ’Fip’ Motilall, who was granted his by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government. Sithe Global officially withdrew as an investor in the project back in 2013 citing a lack of national consensus on the part of the Parliamentary opposition. The company had stated that it would be “forced’ to pull out of the project in the absence of such consensus. It had lobbied extensively, through PR work, to gain such a reality but that was to no avail. By the time Sithe walked, NICIL has already incurred huge expenses on its behalf. In an undocumented agreement, NICIL and Sithe had decided that NICIL would incur initial expenses for the Amaila project and Sithe would have refunded the money. When departing, the company had owed NICIL $303M. However NICIL made provision for the write-off of $151.6M or 50 percent of Sithe Global’s debt. In his report, Goolsarran said that Brassington indicated that amounts expended on the project were treated as receivable from Sithe Global. He further stated that since the project had been aborted, the receivable amount from Sithe Global would have to
Former Executive Director of NICIL, Winston Brassington be written off as “bad debt.” Goolsarran said that in the NICIL draft financial statements for 2014 the sum of $151.6M indeed reflected the write-off as “bad debt”. Goolsarran said that given the size of Sithe Global’s provision that had been made in NICIL’s accounts, it would have been appropriate for approval from the Minister before making the provision for the write off. He said that in any event, there was no evidence that NICIL Board specially approved the expenditure to be incurred on behalf of Sithe Global. Goolsarran said that this is notwithstanding that the Board would have approved of the accounts. “A provision for bad debts has the same effect on an entity’s results of operations as that of a write-off and is usually a precursor to the latter, hence the need to specifically involve NICIL’s board and the Minister. “The fact that the board approved of the accounts is not enough,” said Goolsarran. He added that despite the statement from the Executive Director that payments made
on behalf of the Amaila Falls Hydro Project were recoverable from Sithe Global, amounts totalling $94.7M were charged to the expenditure of NICIL; this is separate from that which was charged to Sithe’s account. A further amount of $5.3M was expended during the period January to May 2015 and charged to the expenditure of NICIL, resulting in an over-statement of NICIL’s expenditure of $100M and a corresponding understatement of the amount owed by Sithe Global. Therefore, Goolsarran said that the total expenditure incurred on behalf of Sithe Global was $403.3M. Goolsarran said that it is not clear how much of this expenditure relates to the construction of the Amaila Falls access road; how much was paid to Synergy Holdings before the contract was terminated; what procedures were followed leading to the award of the contract; how much remained recoverable from the contractor; and what procedures were followed in the selection of China Railway Group to complete the road. He said that it is also unclear how much was paid to China Railway and what is the state of completion of the road. The government has spent more than US$42M to build a road to the hydropower site and it was said that Sithe Global invested some US$16M in the project. It is unclear if that sum includes that which was incurred by NICIL.
-even as its concessions are repossessed While BaiShanLin Forest Development Inc is all out of State Forest Exploratory Permits (SFEP), it continues to operate through its alliances with local companies. The forensic audit report into the operation of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) prepared by Anand Goolsarran exposed that BaiShanLin grabbed five major Guyanese companies in the forestry sector. These companies are Sherwood Forrest Inc, Haimorakabra Logging Co., Wood Associated Industries Co. Ltd., Puruni Woods Inc. and Kwebanna Wood Products Inc. With all of the SFEPs expired, the company is depending solely on the local joint venture entities. BaiShanLin had two SFEPs (01/2011 and 01/2013) covering 104,768 and 73,015 hectares respectively. Both have been extended on various occasions. And this is even in the face of the fact that BaiShanLin was not qualified, in the first place, to be issued an SFEP because it failed a number of requirements, including audited financial statements for five years. Goolsarran said that the very extensions were against the Forestry Act. Those extensions were given under GFC’s previous board. Goolsarran had also noted that one of BaiShanLin’s extended permits expired on November 4, 2015, but there was no board in place to ad-
Auditor, Anand Goolsarran
Managing Director of BaiShanLin, Chu Hongbo
dress the issue. The new Board subsequently decided against renewal. The final SFEP that the company had in its possession came to an end on Monday. That, too, will not be renewed, according to an official. A forestry official said, yesterday, that while the cease order that Government placed on BaiShanLin does not apply to the other companies under its control, no logs have been shipped out of the country over the past two months. “According to our records, neither BaiShanLin nor the local partners under its control has shipped out
logs within the past two months. We understand that there is logging going on (through the acquired companies) but nothing has been shipped out,” said the official. The forensic Auditor, Goolsarran had recommended in his report that since the Forests Act prohibits the transfer of ownership/control of a forest concession without the specific approval of the Commission, then the five concessionaires that have transferred such ownership or control to the officials of BaiShanLin should be made to surrender their concessions to the Commission for reallocation to other potential concessionaires.
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Female relative among five held for 2008 murder of businessman -disgruntled ‘hit-man’ is ‘Blackie’ London’s nephew By Michael Jordan
With disgruntled ‘hitman’ Linden Lewis now spilling his secrets, police yesterday rounded up four more suspects for the February 2008 murder of 76-year-old businessman Habiboodean. Among them is a 50-yearold blood-relative of Habiboodean, who allegedly plotted the businessman’s death to get her hands on his assets. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said that the woman turned herself in to police, in the company of an attorney at around noon yesterday. Also detained are Terry Lewton, 38, of Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo, who was previously charged for Mr. Habiboodean’s murder, and Robert Parris, said to be Lewton’s relative. Police said that one of the suspects was nabbed in Bartica. Police are also trying to locate Michael London, who allegedly hired his nephew, Linden Lewis, to kill Mr. Habiboondean. London is said to be a brother of notorious gunman and ex-soldier Linden ‘Blackie’ London, who was slain in 2009 by joint services ranks, during an estimated 11hour standoff in an Eccles, East Bank Demerara hotel. Detectives were still grilling the suspects last night, and indications are that some of them are co-operating. At least one of the detained men is said to have knowledge of
Murdered: Habiboodean the murder plot, but is claiming that he kept silent because some of the plotters had threatened his family. Detectives have also been informed that individuals had seen the alleged ‘hitman’ leaving Mr. Habiboodean’s residence on the day he was slain. The female relative suspected of plotting the businessman’s death was reportedly also present when the alleged killer, Linden Lewis, left the house. Kaieteur News understands that the ‘eyewitness’ claimed that he became suspicious and asked the female relative why Lewis had visited Mr. Habiboodean’s house. The woman reportedly responded: “Don’t worry with he (Lewis).” Habiboodean, 76, of Ruby, East Bank Essequibo, was attacked and badly beaten in his home on Febru-
ary 15, 2008. He succumbed at a hospital. Police had charged the victim’s former employee, Terry Lewton, 38, of Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo, and his daughter, Bibi Nazeela Habiboodean, of Ruby, East Bank Essequibo, for Mr. Habiboodean’s murder. The matter was discharged due to insufficient evidence. But last week, police detained the alleged ‘hit-man’ and four others, for the murder of Mohamed Munir, 75, and his wife Bibi Jamila Munir, 69, who were burnt to death in their Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo home. It was while he was in custody that someone tipped off investigators that Lewis had vital information about Habiboodean’s death. Police said that while being interrogated on Monday, Lewis admitted to killing Habiboodean, while complaining that he had never received full payment for the job. According to the suspect’s claims, it all began sometime in 2008, when a female relative of the elderly businessman complained that other relatives of Habiboodeen had received properties and other assets, while she had received nothing. The relative reportedly stated that she wanted the old man’s fuel station, cash he had in a bank, and assets he had in Georgetown. She
reportedly then contacted an uncle of Lewis, and he hired Lewis to kill Mr. Habiboodeen. Five individuals, including Lewis, reportedly sat down at a Vergenoegen home, East Bank Essequibo, to plan the old man’s death. Lewis said that the plotters promised to pay him $6M, and provide him with “a house and land.” On February 15, 2008, the relative reportedly helped Lewis to gain access to Mr. Habiboodean’s house. When the ‘hit-man’ entered, the elderly businessman was sitting in a chair. “What you doing here?” Mr. Habiboodean reportedly
asked the intruder. Lewis reportedly replied: “——(name given) send me to kill you.” He then reportedly struck the 76-year-old repeatedly. Mr. Habiboodean later succumbed in a hospital. But Lewis said that instead of giving him the “$6M, house and land” they had promised, the plotters gave him $5,000 “to go into the bush.” Lewis reportedly fled to the interior, where he remained for two years. It was during this time that police arrested and charged the victim’s former employee, Terry Lewton, and Bibi Nazeela Habiboodean for murder. They were subse-
quently discharged. When Lewis returned from the interior in 2010, he approached the plotters and was told that the case had been “dismissed.” But when the ‘hit man’ asked for his “$6M, house and land,” one of the plotters reportedly told him that all the money had been spent on lawyers. The plotter reportedly then told the ‘hit-man’ to ‘f—off.’ Lewis said that he did not pursue the matter. Should they crack this one, it will be the latest in a string of ‘cold cases’ that the police have solved, particularly since establishing its Major Crimes Unit.
Man dies in Pomeroon boat collision Police at the Charity Outpost have detained a Jacklow, Lower Pomeroon man whose boat allegedly crashed into his uncle’s ballahoo boat, resulting in his death. The accused, Lennox Baharally, who is currently in custody reportedly tried to dispose of his uncle’s body. Persons in the Pomeroon River who witnessed the accident were reluctant to speak. Dead is 58-year-old Mohamed Shameer, formerly of Jacklow. The dead man’s sister, ‘Fatty’, related that both her nephew and brother were heading to Charity when the accident occurred. The dis-
Dead: Mohamed Shameer traught woman added that Mohamed’s nephew was traveling aboard a craft pow-
ered by an outboard engine boat; Mohammed was in a paddle boat. The woman stated that after crashing his boat into Mohamed’s and realizing that the man had died, her nephew took M o h a m e d ’s b o d y f r o m his boat and placed it i n t o h i s b o at, then attempted to sink the boat. She claimed that Baharally always drove while under the influence alcohol. On two previous occasions he collided with others in the Pomeroon. A post mortem examination is expected to be performed shortly. (Yannason Duncan)
Wednesday April 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday April 27, 2016
T&T Govt. says it will not enter into agreement with IMF PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - (CMC) – The Trinidad and Tobago government says it will not enter into any structural adjustment programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) but defended its decision to have advisors from the IMF and the World Bank assist it deal with reviving the economy of the oil-rich twin island republic. Finance Minister Colm Imbert, speaking in Parliament on Monday, said “we are not in any standby arrangement and under this PNM (People’s National Movement) administration, under the leadership of Dr Keith Christopher Rowley, there will be no standby arrangement with the IMF”. Opposition legislators have criticised the eightmonth-old government of seeking to hoodwink the population and enter into an agreement with the Washington-based financial institution as the country deals with a significant decline in revenue as a result of the drop in oil prices on the world market. Last weekend, the leader of the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ), David Abdula, described as “an amazing indication of the abject failure” the decision of the government to seek the assistance of the two financial institutions in dealing with the sluggish local economy. “It’s an indication that he’s [Imbert] unsure of what he’s doing and if that is an indication of that, then that contributes to the lack of
Colm Imbert confidence generally in the economy,” Abdulah said. Last week, Imbert told reporters that teams from the two Washington-based financial institutions were here assisting the Rowley administration saying “we have made arrangements for experts, primarily from the World Bank but also from the IMF to give us advice on a number of pressing matters. “The first one would be an appropriate oil and gas fiscal regime in the current environment of low oil prices and declining production in our oil and gas fields. “One of the things we need to do at this time with low oil prices is to model a fiscal regime that would achieve two objectives which are quite often contradictory and one is to maximise revenue for the government”. Imbert who led a delega-
tion to Washington for talks with the financial institutions there, said the new regime would also be to “provide incentives to oil companies”. Imbert defended the decision to establish the new regime, telling legislators “multi-national companies charge expenses in their head office which are unreasonable and thereby deprive Trinidad and Tobago of revenue. “So this much reviled and hated IMF…will help this country to design a competitive oil and tax regime which will boost revenue for Trinidad and Tobago and assist us with transfer pricing which will allow us to earn as much revenue as we can from the multi-nationals.” He said the IMF assist countries all over the world and accused the opposition of wanting to “frighten people for absolutely no reason”.
Wednesday April 27, 2016
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With Olympic cleanup canceled, Rio resigned to dirty bay RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) Visitors flocking to Rio de Janeiro for this summer’s Olympic Games will find both dramatic landscapes and polluted, junkfilled water in the finger-like inlet that forms the city’s shoreline and harbor. Guanabara Bay, which carves into southeast Brazil from the Atlantic Ocean, literally gave the city its name when Portuguese mariners mistook it for a “rio,” or “river.” Four centuries later, the bay is preparing to welcome another sort of seafarer – Olympic sailors who will navigate it when Rio 2016 kicks off in August. But for those who call the bay home, the Games are already a disappointment.
Wednesday April 27, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Take your time. Business and emotional partnerships will run smoothly. Be diplomatic but stem when it comes to giving of yourself. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Stay out of other people's affairs. You can get a great deal accomplished if you bring work home. Good friends will give you honest answers. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Children may be on your mind. Arguments with relatives may lead to a split in the family. Any financial limitations will probably have to be dealt with on your own. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You may find your nights sleepless due to bad dreams. This could be a difficult day to deal with coworkers. Opportunities for romance will develop through group endeavors; however, the association isn't likely to last. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Travel will be favorable and bring you the greatest rewards. You will be uncertain of your feelings. A passionate encounter with your mate should help alleviate that pent-up energy. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Don't count on others to cover up for your shortcomings. Look into joining groups that can give you hands-on advice about business.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Don't give in too quickly. Do your chores and get on with the things you enjoy doing. You can make money through real estate or by using your head when it comes to personal investments. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Take a second look; difficulties with appliances, water, or electricity in your home may be evident. Praise will be yours if you have been pursuing your goals. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) People trying to entice you to join in will be less than trustworthy. Concentrate on spending quality time with children and friends. Don't let others make you feel guilty or insecure. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Problems with appliances or electrical gadgets will drive you crazy. You must not let others talk you into doing things that will probably limit you financially at a later date. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You will be best suited to doing things around the house or inviting friends over for a visit. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Someone you care about may not be too pleased with you. Underhandedness regarding legal matters or contracts must be counteracted.
After Rio won the rights in 2009 to host the Olympics, local officials vowed to clean up Guanabara Bay. But an economic downturn, political instability and a historic corruption scandal left many of the promises made back then, when the country was booming, hopelessly out of reach. By 2014, Rio authorities had already given up on the cleanup. Now they are just trying to keep the parts of the bay that Olympic sailors will traverse free from debris that in recent months has included floating refrigerators, couches and even corpses. After decades of development, raw sewage, industrial waste and litter have poured in from a metropolitan area that is home to more than 11 million people. While the shores are verdant and telegenic, and some people still use the bay for
recreation, the water is so dirty that scientists and physicians warn that contact with it can lead to viral and bacterial infections. Locals who once plied their livelihood in the bay can now barely get by. “I raised my whole family through fishing,” said 63year-old Jorge Henrique Coutinho, who lives in a
fisherman’s colony near Rio’s international airport. “I bought my house, my car, everything. Nowadays, it is hardly enough for us to eat.” Alexandro Domingues de Oliveira, a 41-year-old mechanic who lives on a small houseboat surrounded by litter, said the Olympics would do little to improve his lot. “The tourists will only come here and share it with us for a moment, but then they will leave, and we are the ones left with this mess.”
Who else will stand up for... (From page 37) rival, but recent reverberations indicate that both of these teams are receiving solid support from their respective governments and corporate entities and these two components make the world of difference between success and failure. The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is for the Government to lead in such assistance since it encourages the corporate sector to
get on board meaningfully. Our next engagement is scheduled for May 21 right here in Guyana and with our Golden Jubilee celebrations already in swing a victory by the men commonly referred to as the ‘Green Machine’ could be a premature birthday gift for this nation. Let us all rally around these true national gladiators as they seek to make us proud once more.
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PCB issues Younis show cause notice ESPNCRICINFO - The PCB has served Younis Khan with a show cause notice for breaching various clauses in his central contract after he deserted his domestic team during the ongoing Pakistan Cup in Faisalabad. He has also been barred from rejoining Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, despite his willingness to return. “Younis has been a great servant of Pakistan cricket and a true role model for youngsters,” Shaharyar Khan, the PCB chairman, said in a statement. “I feel pained making this decision as we have to demonstrate that no one is bigger than the game. We will wait for Younis to respond before we proceed further in this matter.” Younis was found to have breached article 2.2.8 of the code. He was charged with questioning an umpiring decision, showing dissent and threatening an umpire - for which he was fined 50% of his match fee. Following the match against Punjab, he refused to face a disciplinary hearing and left the tournament in protest. The PCB also found that Younis had breached various clauses in his category A central contract with Pakistan. Younis called Shaharyar on Monday to apologise for his actions but the PCB determined that the charges against him remained intact. “The chairman clarified that
Younis Khan salutes the crowd after his final ODI innings, Pakistan v England, 1st ODI, Abu Dhabi, November 11, 2015 ©AFP while we have all regards for Younis, who has served the country with honour, he would follow the process dealing with such situation as stipulated in the relevant rules,” the PCB said in a statement. “The position with regard to Younis Khan is as follows: (a) In accepting the recommendations of the match referee, a fine of 50% of his match fee has been imposed. “(b) For breaching the following clauses of his central contract, a show cause notice has been issued to
Younis Khan to explain his position to the board within seven days: clauses 2.2.1 (c), 2.2.2, 2.2.5 and 2.2.8 and breaches No. 17 and 20 of schedule 5 of the central contract. “(c) In light of the above pending disciplinary proceedings and due to the fact that a replacement player has already been added to the KPK Team, it has been decided, in the interest of the game, not to allow Younis to rejoin the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa team in the Pakistan Cup.”
Wednesday April 27, 2016
South Africa bans rugby, cricket federations from bidding for major tournaments (Reuters) South Africa on Monday banned its national cricket and rugby federations from hosting or bidding for international tournaments for at least a year due to their failure to increase their representation of black players. The government has been pushing for more black players to be included in the nation’s most popular sports but more than two decades after the end of apartheid, whites still make up the bulk of players in athletics, cricket, netball and rugby. “I have therefore resolved to revoke the privilege of Athletics South Africa (ASA), Cricket South Africa (CSA), Netball South Africa (NSA) and South African Rugby (SAR) to host and bid for major and mega international tournaments,” Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula said in a statement. Mbalula said the athletics and netball federations were also barred from bidding to stage global events after a report showed that four of the five biggest sports have failed to create enough opportunities for black players. The minister’s decision, to be reviewed in a year’s time, was a blow to South African Rugby’s intention to bid for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. That process is due to start in June but will not conclude until next year, by which time SA Rugby hopes to have the opportunity to pursue hosting rights reinstated. The ban will not affect existing tournaments involving the Springboks, such as the
South African Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula addresses a media conference in Cape Town, in this file photo dated March 17, 2016. (REUTERS/Mike Hutchings) Rugby Championship and a three-match incoming tour by Ireland in June. SA Rugby CEO Jurie Roux confirmed the organisation had fallen short in its commitment to transformation, but said he was confident their ban would be lifted by next year. “Our barometer for 2015 shows that we have achieved our target in 11 out of 13 dimensions as agreed with government,” he was quoted in a media release from SA Rugby. “We have made further progress on and off the field in 2016 to date and over the coming months our commitment to transformation will become even more evident.” SA Rugby appointed Allister Coetzee, the country’s second black coach, to lead the Springboks to the 2019 World Cup in Japan.
The country’s athletics and cricket federations both told Reuters they would study the report more closely before making comment. South Africa is scheduled to host the 2020 Cricket Under-19 World Cup. The country has seen greater participation among black players across most sports at junior level despite the challenge of providing adequate school facilities in poorer districts. But there is a growing frustration in the African National Congress (ANC) government that some senior national teams have not reflected this trend. The soccer federation was the only one of the five to meet its transformation targets, Mbalula said. He added that he would review the decision when considering the results on the 2016-17 “Transformation Barometer”.
RHTYSC, MS Secretary/CEO could... (From page 39) Zone, Annual Review Magazine, Annual Cricket Academy, Countrywide Coaching Clinics, Hall of Fame for Players and Administrators, Tribute to Heroes, Tribute to Retired Cricketers, Tribute to Coaches, Assistance to Clubs, Test Cricketers billboards, Role Model/Mentors Programme, Independence 20/20 Cup among others.
Foster in an invited comment after President Granger’s remarks stated that he would assist more youths to fulfill their sporting potentials while assisting them to stay away from a life of drugs and suicide. Despite his hectic schedule at the RHTYSC, MS which sees him working from 9AM to 7PM every day of the week, Foster stated that whenever a nation’s President calls,
any “patriotic” Guyanese must be willing to serve in the national interest. If appointed as Sports Ambassador, Foster stated he would work tirelessly with other Club Officials to make sure that every Region in Guyana has a sporting organisation that would assist youths to fulfill their potentials in sports, culture and education.
Wednesday April 27, 2016
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Donald to mentor Australia bowlers ESPNcricinfo - Allan Donald is set to be appointed Australia’s bowling coach for their tou r o f S r i L a n k a which begins in July this year. It is believed that D o n a l d ’s y e t - t o - b e - a n nounced deal with Cricket Australia is open-ended, meaning he may very well be able to earn a more permanent role in Australia’s set-up. Donald will have a powerful motivation to make the most of his imminent appointment, winning a chance to prove wrong the South African set-up that denied him a contract extension. If he is retained beyond the Sri Lanka tour, he could find himself helping the likes of Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Peter Siddle to topple South Africa when they visit Australia for a Test
series in November. The parting of ways between Donald and South Africa in 2015 had been described as mutual, but ESPNcricinfo understands that the team’s former spearhead had actually wanted to continue in the role he held from 2011. Currently working with Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, Donald recently withdrew from the running for a franchise role with Knights, a South Africa domestic franchise. While Australia coach Darren Lehmann has stated that his former team-mate Jason Gillespie is under consideration for the role in the longer term, Donald has the opportunity to show his wares on a tour in which the team will aim not only to defeat Sri Lanka but also to start thinking about the intimidat-
Donald (left) was reportedly disappointed that his role with South Africa had not been extended in 2015 © AFP ing task of facing up to India on the subcontinent in early 2017. Donald, who had an outstanding Test record in India
- 17 wickets at 16.11 in four matches - could perhaps be well suited to such a challenge. He also picked up 12 wickets at 19.33 in his three
ICC suspends Cricket Association of Nepal ESPNCRICINFO - The ICC has suspended the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) in view of government interference in the board. The ICC took the decision during its board meeting on Tuesday. In December, Nepal’s National Sports Council (NSC) had formed an ad-hoc committee to run the CAN. This happened soon after Chatur Bahadur Chand was elected the CAN’s president in controversial annual general meeting - which was not attended by its then president Tanka Angbuhang - without the NSC’s permission. The Chand-led CAN faction then
filed a court case, which is still pending, challenging the NSC’s decision. “In light of the ongoing court case involving the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and the Ad hoc Committee established by the Nepalese National Sports Council (NSC), which has led to a vacuum of cricket leadership in Nepal, the Board suspended the M e m b e r s hip of CAN for breach of Article 2.9 of the ICC’s Articles of Association, which prohibits government interference and requires free and fair elections,” the ICC said in a statement. The ICC board added that
the suspension would stay in place “until such time as the CAN becomes free of government interference and is properly structured to begin exploiting the tremendous cricket talent and opportunities that exist in Nepal.” While the suspension will cut off ICC funding for the CAN, the ICC board decided that Nepal national teams could continue to feature in ICC events. “ICC management will also now work with the Nepalese cricket community, and other stakeholders, in order to assist with the development of a sustainable
The ICC board has said Nepal can continue to field national teams in ICC events © Getty Images
governance and administration structure for cricket in Nepal.”
Tests in Sri Lanka. South Africa’s success in that part of the world during Donald’s playing days was based on harnessing a strong, disciplined pace attack with some assistance from spin. At the time of his departure from South Africa following the 2015 World Cup, Donald spoke glowingly of the bowlers he had worked with. “I always wanted to give
myself the chance of working up until the World Cup,” Donald had said. “I really felt now was a good time to get out and get on with it and that’s that. It’s been four awesome years and I will miss the guys big time.” The appointment will make Donald the first South African to join Australia’s coaching staff since the dismissal of Mickey Arthur at the outset of the 2013 Ashes tour of England. His replacement Lehmann emphasised a decidedly “Australian” brand of cricket, but there is now acknowledgement at CA that a different tactical and mental approach may be required to succeed in Asia. Donald has been in contention to be Australia’s bowling coach before, when in 2011 he was interviewed for the role that ultimately went to Craig McDermott. An advantage McDermott had at the time was the chance to try out for the job on a brief ODI tour of Bangladesh following that year’s World Cup. Donald now has a similar opportunity.
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Wednesday April 27, 2016
Belgian cyclist banned for six years for motorized doping Reuters - The Belgian cyclist caught during competition in January with an electric motor hidden in one of her bikes has been banned for six years and fined 20,000 Swiss francs ($20,603.69), the sport’s governing body said on Tuesday. Femke Van den Driessche, 19, was found guilty of violating competition rules through “technological fraud” during the 2016 Cyclo-cross world championships, the International Cycling Union (UCI) said earlier. It is the first time an elite rider has been punished for so-called “mechanical doping”. A UCI statement on Tuesday described the ban as “a major victory” in the fight against a form of cheating seen as a growing problem in the sport. “The bike concerned was scanned using the new magnetic resonance testing deployed this year by the UCI. This detected the motor whilst the bike was in the rider’s pit area,” the statement said. It said the Vivax motor was concealed along with a
battery in the seat-tube, and was controlled by a Bluetooth switch installed underneath the handlebar tape. Van den Driessche denied knowing that the bike broke the rules, and said it belonged to her friend. But she later decided not to contest the finding and quit the sport. In a sign of a get-tough policy by the UCI, Van den Driessche has seen all her competitive results nullified since October 2015 and been stripped of her ranking. She has also been ordered to return medals and prize monies from events in which she competed over that period, and to pay costs of the proceedings. “We have invested considerable resources in developing this new and highly effective scanning technology and also in strengthening the sanctions applicable to anyone found cheating in this way,” UCI President Brian Cookson said. “This case is a major victory for the UCI and all those fans, riders and teams who want to be assured that we
will keep this form of cheating out of our sport.” Leading cyclists, including 2015 Tour de France winner Chris Froome, have warned about the dangers of mechanical doping. “For the last few years now there have been rumors about motors being concealed within the bikes,” Froome said on cyclingnews.com. “It’s a concern that I’ve had.” The UCI is expected to outline the magnetic resonance technology it uses to counter the cheats at a news conference next week. “We believe it’s the best technology available for making these kind of checks. It allows us to test a large number of bikes very quickly. We’ve done over 2,000 bikes in various races this year already,” Cookson told Reuters at an event in Abu Dhabi.
Belgian rider Femke van den Driessche was competing in a women’s under-23 race with the bike. (Getty Images)
Dinda’s burst rejuvenates Supergiants ESPNcricinfo - Rising Pune Supergiants’ seam bowlers, led by Ashok Dinda, used the fresh Hyderabad surface as an ally to restrict
Sunrisers Hyderabad to 118 for 8, before coming up with a dominant batting performance to seal a 34-run win via the Duckworth-Lewis method. Sunrisers were reduced to 32 for 5 after mild showers delayed play by an hour. Dinda, brought in for Ankit Sharma, struck off the fourth delivery to dismiss David Warner, Sunrisers’ highest scorer, to set the tone for the evening. He added to his tally by dismissing Aditya Tare and Naman Ojha to finish with 3 for 23. In the chase, Faf du Plessis and Steven Smith overcame the early loss of Ajinkya Rahane by putting together 80 off just 55 balls to derail Sunrisers. Rain returned to bring a premature end to the game with Supergiants needing 25. It was the 18th win by a chasing side in 22 games this season. Dinda, making his debut for Supergiants, removed Warner with a wide delivery that was cut straight to backward point, eliciting a Christiano Ronaldo-like celebration. Mitchell Marsh swung the ball both ways to leave the batsmen searching for runs. The pressure of an unproductive Powerplay resulted in loose shots from Tare and Eoin Morgan as Sunrisers slipped to 27 for 3. Things went from bad to worse when Deepak Hooda gloved a reverse sweep off R Ashwin’s first delivery to MS Dhoni. In the next over, Moises Henriques was strangled down leg to leave Sunrisers at 32 for 5. Supergiants did not concede a boundary from the sixth
Ashok Dinda set up Rising Pune Supergiants’ win with his second-best IPL figures © BCCI over till the 14th, with R Ashwin conceding 14 in four straight overs. It was only the third time he completed his full quota this season. Shikhar Dhawan and Naman Ojha milked the bowling, but the inability to find boundaries forced them into playing the big shots. Dhawan, who was dropped by Rahane at longoff in the 15th over, carried on to post his second fifty of the season, but the finishing touches were lent by Bhuvneshwar Kumar. His eight-ball 21 gave Sunrisers momentum going into the break. Bhuvneshwar wasn’t done yet; he gave Sunrisers some hope in the chase with a wicket-maiden in the first over, after having Rahane caught at backward point. However, Smith and du
Plessis capitalised on loose bowling, hitting 11 boundaries between them in the next seven overs to all but finish the game. Mustafizur Rahman, Warner’s trump card, was also taken apart courtesy Smith’s wristy flicks. Du Plessis’s fluent knock ended when he edged behind for 30. MS Dhoni, who got off the mark with a muscular hit over mid-on, nailed a cut straight to backward point off Ashish Nehra soon after just as the drizzle got heavier. The players scurried off immediately with Supergiants at 94 for 3, comfortably ahead of the D/L par score of 60. Scores: Rising Pune Supergiants 94 for 3 (Smith 46*, du Plessis 30) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad118 for 8 (Dhawan 56*, Dinda 3-23) by 34 runs (D/L).
Wednesday April 27, 2016
U.S. basketball to play five-game pre-Rio Olympics exhibition (Reuters) The United States men’s basketball team will play five exhibition contests, including games against gold medal rivals Argentina and China, in the buildup to the Rio Olympics, USA Basketball said on Monday. The United States, with a team expected to be led by LeBron James, will face fourth ranked Argentina on July 22
in Las Vegas followed games against China on July 24 in Los Angeles and July 26 in Oakland. Venezuela will provide the opposition in Chicago on July 29 before the U.S. team wrap up their pre-Olympic preparation against Nigeria on Aug. 1 in Houston. “With only a short period of training available, our training and exhibition games are
critical in helping us prepare for the challenges we will face in Rio in defending our gold medal,” Jerry Colangelo, USA Basketball chairman and national team managing director, said in a statement. The U.S. team head to Rio bidding for a third consecutive gold. The Olympic Games men’s competition will feature national teams from 12 countries competing Aug. 6-21.
Letter to the Sports Editor
Objectiveness and not Subjectiveness is needed by the GFF Executive Dear Sports Editor, While I was not privy to view and peruse a copy of the adopted Constitution of Guyana Football Federation, as such may I inquire publicly, how many Sub-Committees are there and is the Grounds Committee, one of them? Editor, my reason for this basic line of question is primarily due to an article appearing in the KN Publication (19. 04. 16) captioned, “Guyana to play both CFU Men’s Caribbean Cup matches overseas - GFF”. With the reason for forfeiting its rights as a host, being: “The unavailability of the Guyana National Stadium due to an international cricket engagement. The National Track and Field Facility, Leonora, will require a significant amount of work to ensure its readiness”. Firstly, when I was a member of the Grounds/Competitions Committee during Klass’ tenure of the Presidency, an emergency meeting would have been convened exploring all options for the grounds/venues rental; including MSC, Linden, Blairmont and GCC, which at this juncture may be unsuitable due to inadequate seating. Within 48 hours the costs for rental of the various venues would have been in place followed by budgets of expenditure; along with
projected incomes. Thereafter, inspections and conduciveness for crowd support would have been well entrenched for matches. Secondly, with a time frame of approximately 6 weeks at its disposal, did the GFF Executive take into serious consideration, duration for rehabilitating the Leonora Facility, inclusive of: additional seating accommodation; installation of a water sprinkling system for the surface; construction of dressing rooms and costs; would it have been feasible and financial viable? Thirdly, was any approach made to the Sports Ministry and the National Sport Commission for assistance in relation to the aforementioned? Editor, with no financial gains to be derived by the GFF, by virtue of “Forfeiting its right” as a host, due to the unavailability of a suitable venue, then, would the Leonora Facility be eventu-
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Kaieteur News
ally upgraded to International requirements; moreover, with a few Elite League matches being played there? Should an Elite League participant, put forward a strong case in writing outlining its inability to play a match, due to a poorly maintained playing surface, devoid of moisture content! What would be the GFF’s response, sanction (s) immediately? Did the GFF Executive upon its familiarization visit to the NSC, Director discuss the state on the Leonora Facility and subsequent implications? Meanwhile, given all the “ups and downs” in the sport’s administration, definitely “micromanagement is not needed at this juncture! Do all the Associations have a GFF Executive assigned to it, and is the staging of competitions, workshops, seminars and upgrading of grounds an integral part of discussions? Respectfully Yours, Lester Sealey.
MYO through to quarters after taking first innings from DCC Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) have qualified for the quarterfinals of the Georgetown Cricket Association/Noble House Sea Foods second division two-day tournament after taking first innings points from Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) on Sunday. Safraz Esau and Zulfikar Ali guided host MYO to 2284 declared, batting first. The pair came together after Ray Barker was run out without scoring and Chien Gittens went for 32 (6x4,1x6) and added 120 for the third wicket. Esau struck eleven fours and two sixes in scoring 78, while Ali slammed fifteen fours and one six in 77. Shafeek Ishmeal made 13 not out as Dennis Squires claimed two wickets. DCC were bowled out for 219 in reply. Tevin Imlach and Dexter George added 84 for the first wicket before George went for 38. Imlach made 39, while Squires and Carlton
Dennis Squires
Shafeek Ishmeal
Jacques got 33 each. Ishmeal snared 3-27, Ray Sankar 3-35 and Mohamed Ayube 3-44. MYO declared on 155-9, batting a second time with Ali scoring 36, Ishmeal 33 and
Collis Baynes 27; Squires captured 4-85 and George 3-27. Set 265 for victory, DCC reached 43 without loss at the close. Squires was on 21 and Imlach on eight.
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Wednesday April 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
Venues ready, but many challenges remain for Rio Games SAO PAULO (Reuters) Brazil has long been known as a country that can throw a great party as long as the guests do not mind a location that still has the builders in it. With 100 days to go before the Olympic Games begin in Rio de Janeiro, the nation famous for doing things at the last minute faces a novel situation: The venues are ready, but the host does not appear to be. With the president fighting impeachment and the economy on track for its worst recession in more than a century, Brazilians are both angry and distracted. “People are paying no attention” to the Olympics, said longtime Rio resident Julia Michaels, who chronicles the city through her Rio Real blog. “No one is talking about it at all because there are so many other things to talk about.” When Rio de Janeiro won the right to host the Games in 2009, Brazil was the darling of the developing world. Its economy had grown briskly for most of the decade, 30 million people had been lifted
from poverty and the nation was assuming a prominent role in world affairs. Since then, a collapse in commodities prices has dragged down the economy, and President Dilma Rousseff faces the prospect of being suspended from office next month on charges of budgetary fraud. The twin melt downs have consumed Brazil, and the Olympics have all but disappeared from the front pages and TV news. In a nation where soccer has long been the sport that matters, politics is the only game in town. “Brazil is going through a political crisis, and the situation has still to sort itself out,” said Agatha Bednarczuk, one of the beach volleyball players who will represent her homeland. “I think we just need to resolve the politics, and then people’s attention will turn to sport.” ALMOST READY The venues are complete except for the velodrome, which will not be ready in time for an official test event, and the athletics stadium, where
An aerial view shows the 2016 Rio Olympic park in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, April 25, 2016. (REUTERS/Ricardo Moraes) the running track is being laid. Officials say both will be finished well before the Games begin on Aug. 5. Some 36 test events have taken place at arenas and stadiums as well as on the area’s beaches and mountains. But the deep recession has prompted last-minute cutbacks. Organizers withdrew plans for temporary seating at some venues, reduced the number of volunteers and briefly considered scrapping
plans to provide athletes’ rooms with air-conditioning. The International Olympic Committee visited the city this month and expressed satisfaction with progress so far, albeit with the caveat that “thousands” of small details had to be finalized. CHALLENGES The other big issues concern Rio itself. A planned cleanup of the bay where the sailing and open water swimming events will take place did not happen. Although officials say the race lanes will be pristine, the Olympics will not produce the promised legacy of clear waters. An outbreak of the mosquito-borne Zika virus, which has been linked to birth defects in hundreds of children in northern Brazil, has caused
widespread panic and prompted some fans and even some athletes to consider skipping the Games. Questions remain about whether the new metro line leading from the populous South Side of Rio to the Olympic Park area will be ready in time. The line has yet to be completed and will start operations without prolonged tests, if any at all. Crime remains a major concern. Drug traffickers have again taken over slums that community police had pacified ahead of the 2014 World Cup, and shootings have become more common, blogger Michaels said. In the first three months of 2016, 432 people were murdered in the city, according to government statistics. The deaths of two people
on a new seafront cycle lane that was touted as part of the Olympics legacy have shaken residents. The lane collapsed when a strong wave swept up the sea wall on Thursday. Such stories may be partly responsible for slow demand for tickets, with only 62 percent sold so far, according to Phil Wilkinson, spokesman for Rio 2016 organizing committee. In true Brazilian style, though, officials say they expect the Games to turn out fine. “When the athletes arrive and sport begins, the country will get behind it, and we will see an excitable and passionate audience engage with the Games,” Wilkinson said. “We are confident that, 100 days out, we are in a good position.”
2016 Tenelec Inc Under-15, Two-innings Cricket Competition in Berbice
Seon Glasgow Jnr, Nigel Deodat outstanding as Blairmont destroy D’Edward
Seon Glasgow Jnr
Marvan Prashad
Nigel Deodat
National Under-15 selectees all-rounders Seon Glasgow Jnr and Nigel Deodat dominated D’Edward Under-15 team in the latest match of the 2016 Tenelec Inc Under-15, Two-innings Cricket Competition organised by the Berbice Cricket Board and sponsored by Tenelec Inc. a Washington DC based Telecommunication Firm. They got support from another national se-
lectee Marvan Prashad to beat the hapless opponents by an innings and 161 runs. Playing at former first class venue Blairmont Estate Cricket Ground, the visitors were shot out for 78 in their first innings. Only H. Heeralall with 33 offered resistance. Deodat spun webs around the batsmen taking 5 for 15 off 8 overs. He got support from Prashad with 4 for 18 off 4 overs.
In reply, Blairmont CC made 258 for 4 declared. Glasgow Jnr scored a magnificent century, 101 and got support from Fawaz Gaffoor with an even 50, Marvan Prashad 36 and Deodat 28 n o. In their second turn at the crease, D’Edward feared worse scoring an embarrassing 19 all out. Deodat was the wrecker with 5 wickets for 5 runs off 6 overs. Prashad supported with 4 for 6 off 5.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 27, 2016
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Who else will stand up for these national gladiators? By Rawle Welch Their exploits in the Sevens format is legendary, having won seven NACRA titles to go with some encouraging performances at other international Sevens tournaments against some of the top exponents in the sport. However, the respect and promotion is far less celebrated, but somehow they seem unfazed by the shabby treatment which ironically appears to fuel their motivation to keep the ‘Golden Arrowhead’ flying high. The national rugby squad could be labeled somewhat of an enigma, how a group of athletes could conjure up the fortitude to consistently perform at the level they
Green Machine Ronald Mayers (with ball) seen during an offensive drive against Barbados at the National Park. perform with so little support from all and sundry. This team has repeatedly shown what could be achieved at the highest level if the level of support simply matches their determination to do well. They have time and
again defeated teams that are offered times over far more assistance than they are given over the past decade, but still many of the players are right where they started except for a few who have grasped the opportunity to ply their trade overseas.
As a sportswriter who has had the privilege to be close and personal with many of the teams over the period of their dominance to hear the lament of support not matching their sacrifices is really hard to understand, especially when you know it
St Lucia boxing team arrives tonight The St Lucia four-man delegation to compete in the inaugural Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Tournament here this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, arrives tonight aboard a Caribbean Airlines flight. This was disclosed by President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle. The team will comprise of Light welterweight Nathan Ferrari, lightweight Kareem Boyce and welterweight Taj Brown and will be coached by Conrad Hunte a former Guyanese boxer. Ferrari was named St Lucia’s Best Junior Boxer of 2015, and Brown recently competed at an international tournament in Guadeloupe. Jamaica’s team will arrive on Friday. That team will
The St Lucian boxing team that will arrive this evening for their challenge at the Schoolboys and Junior tournament at the Sports Hall Friday and Saturday. Coach Conrad Hunte is second right. have Joshua Forrest Davidson (69 kg), Daniel Hylton (60 kg) and Jerone Enniss (69kg) a light welterweight along with Robert Napier who is the coach. This tournament is aimed at improving the caliber of fighters in the Caribbean Region after this was agreed on by the heads of the various
associations at recent meetings. The Caribbean aims to produce a better quality fighter that will make their mark on the world stage and break the Olympic jinx. Guyana’s lone Olympic medal is a Bronze won by boxer Michael Parris at the Moscow Games in 1980. The GBA is encouraging
boxing fans to come out in their numbers to the Sports Hall Friday and Saturday from 6:00pm and support the boxers. The action promises to be hectic and exciting as is customary among the young fighters. Admission to the venue is just $500 for anyone over 12 years, while any child under 12 will gain free entry.
is the truth. This team is 100% home grown with many of the players coming through the schools programme at the same time and sticking together ever since which is ample testimony to their commitment to the sport and by extension the country. They are serious and proud ambassadors who rarely ask for anything substantial, but when you hear stories of players struggling to purchase a pair of boots to play at the regional and international levels and previous instances of disheveled appearances it clearly shows that not much attention is being paid to these exemplary ambassadors. There is no other example of a national team with such outstanding accomplishments being treated shabbily here in Guyana and every stakeholder with responsibility for the development and promotion of our sports icons should shoulder the blame. T h e y i n c l u d e Government, corporate entities the Guyana Rugby Football Union and the Guyana Olympic Association. These entities could very well say that they’ve added their bit, but their contributions are really
crumbs when compared to countries that this team has beaten over the years. The team has started its 2016 campaign to regain the 15s Rugby Americas North Championship and this crusade also includes a berth at the 2019 World Cup. Barbados was the first country to feel the might of our ruggers after suffering a lop-sided 48-17 defeat with Jamaica slated to be next up. Our performance, while it was impressive, was not as overpowering as previous years and word around the camp pointed to the team not meeting the desired level of fitness due to the late commencement of preparations. Barbados is the easiest of the three countries we will play in our Zone with defending champions Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o anticipated being the toughest of the lot. It therefore means that the level of preparations will have to step up and this obviously entails a longer period of encampment supported by adequate financial backing, failing which, only the ‘big’ hearts of the players might pull us through. Jamaica is usually not as tough as T&T that is considered our main arch (Continued on page 31)
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Wednesday April 27, 2016
Wimbledon to beef up measures against doping, corruption
LONDON (Reuters) Th e Wi m b l e d o n championships will protect its squeaky clean image with enhanced anti-doping and anti-corruption measures for this year ’s 130th tournament, organizers said on Tuesday. Tennis was rocked by allegations of match-fixing on the eve of this year’s Australian Open and suffered another blow to its integrity when former Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova said in February she had failed a drugs test. At a news conference announcing yet another substantial hike in prize money, the All England Club pledged to beef up its safeguards against sport’s two biggest threats. Measures will include data streams and videos of all matches, including in qualifying events, enhanced data monitoring and player education as well as additional antidoping controls to complement those already run at the tournament by the I n t e r n a t i o n a l Te n n i s Federation (ITF). “Whether it’s integrity or anti-doping we feel we should enhance what we are doing,” Richard Lewis, chief executive of the All England Club, told reporters. “There has been lots of
media scrutiny since January and it’s appropriate that we respond accordingly.” The Tennis Integrity Unit (TIU) received no betting alerts during the 2015 championships, but All England Club chairman Philip Brook said the prestigious tournament needed to safeguard public trust, admitting that the sport’s image was under threat. “We don’t think there is a big issue but we will do whatever it takes to keep the sport clean,” he said. “It’s an issue of perception rather than reality.” “I think it’s hard to say (this year’s events) haven’t had an impact,” he added. It is still unclear whether provisionally suspended Sharapova, the 2004 champion, will play this year as she is awaiting the outcom e o f h e r a n t i doping hearing after testing positive for Meldonium at the Australian Open. Brook said her absence would be a “great shame”. “She is a former champion here at Wi m b l e d o n a n d v e r y popular with the crowds. But I think in terms of what has
Chairman of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Philip Brook (L) and Chief Executive of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Richard Lewis during the spring press conference. (Action Images / Andrew Boyers Livepic)
happened we need to let due process take its course,” he said. No figures were revealed regarding how much the All England Club is investing to safeguard the tournament’s
integrity. They were more forthcoming about a five percent rise in prize money, taking the total pool to 28.1 million pounds — second only to
the U.S. Open. The winners of the men’s and women’s singles titles will pocket two million pounds, up 6.4 percent on 2015. First-round losers in the
singles will take home 30,000 pounds ($44,000) — a 161 percent rise from 2011 when Wimbledon pledged to assist those players struggling lower down the rankings.
Underdog capture V net Communications Dominoes title Underdog chalked up 79 games to win the final of the V Net Communications Dominoes competition which was contested on Sunday at Amit Ramnarine Sports Bar at Good Success, Wakenaam. Seawall Boys took the runner up spot with 74 games, while All Star placed third on 68. Alex Chung made 17 and Mahasewar Ramnarine 16 for the winners while Mohamed Sheriffudeen and Khalid Zaman got 16 each for Seawall Boys. Heera Sukram marked 16 and Mohamed Kalam 14 for All Star. David Ramlall and Sherwin Thomas were the lover birds.
Captain of the Underdog team James Ramnarine (left) accepts the trophy from Mohamed Sheriffudeen in the presence of his teammates. Ramnarine was the MVP, while Underdog took home a trophy.
CEO of V Net Communications Safraz Sheriffudeen congratulated
the winners and thanked the other participating teams.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 27, 2016
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Clippers reeling after Game 4 loss, Paul injury Reuters (The Sports Xchange) - The Los Angeles Clippers did not just lose Game 4 of their first-round playoff series with the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday at t h e M o d a Center. They lost their point guard, leader and best player, too. Chris Paul left the game in the third quarter of the Trail Blazers’ 98-84 victory with a right hand injury and did not return. X-rays showed a fractured third metacarpal. He might be sidelined for the remainder of the playoffs. Al-Farouq Aminu scored 30 points — a career high for both the regular season and the playoffs — as the Blazers evened the best-ofseven series at two games apiece. Aminu made 11 of 20 shots from the field, including six of 10 from 3point range.
Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) dribbles in between Los Angeles Clippers guard Austin Rivers (25) and guard Pablo Prigioni (9) in game four of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Moda Center at the Rose Quarter. aime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports. The 6-foot-9 forward also had 10 rebounds and three blocked shots. CJ McCollum scored 19
points, and Mason Plumlee contributed two points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists for Portland.
Clippers forward Blake Griffin had 17 points and seven rebounds before leaving the game in the
fourth quarter with a sore left quad. Jeff Green added 17 points off the bench for Los Angeles, and Paul scored 16. Aminu scored 13 points and Plumlee had two points, nine rebounds and five assists to stake Portland to a 47-43 halftime lead. Paul scored 14 points and Green added 10 for the Clippers, who shot 33.3 percent from the field and were outrebounded 31-21 in the half. He left with his injury with the Clippers trailing 58-52. Green nailed a 3-pointer at the buzzer to narrow Portland’s advantage to 6664 after three quarters. The Blazers outscored the Clippers 11-4 to start the fourth quarter go ahead 7768. The difference was 84-72 with 5 1/2 minutes to play. The Clippers got no closer than seven points the rest of the way. Portland jumped to a 124 lead, with Aminu scoring
eight of the points. The Blazers led 20-12, with Paul scoring all of the Clippers’ points. To that point, Paul was 6for-6 from the field, his team mates 0-for-13. The first non-Paul field goal by the Clippers came on a DeAndre Jordan dunk with 1:43 left in the first quarter. The Blazers took a 24-20 advantage into the second quarter despite 6-for-22 shooting and four combined points from Damian Lillard and McCollum. Allen Crabbe’s 3-pointer gave Portland a 34-26 lead midway through the second q u a r t e r. T h e C l i p p e r s countered with a 10-3 run to get to within 37-36. The Blazers intentionally fouled Jordan, who airballed both free-throw attempts. Portland scored the next five points to go on top 4236, and the Blazers carried a four-point advantage into the half.
RHTYSC, MS Secretary/CEO could become a sports Ambassador
L o n g s e r v i n g Secretary/CEO of Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, Hilbert Foster could soon become a Sports Ambassador if the Constitution of Guyana allows it. President David Granger during the feature address at the RHTYCS, M.S 26th annual award ceremony stated that he was very impressed with the outstanding work of the Club and would like to have it replicated in all of the regions of Guyana. The RHTYSC, MS, the President stated was breaking down walls of division which prevented people because of their origin from participating in some works. Vision and hard work, the Head of State stated, epitomize work of Foster over the last 25 years. “What we have seen here in Guyana over the last quarter of a century is the result of hard work and vision by MR. Foster to make this a reality. It could not have been easy, in fact if 25 years ago, you tried to draw a chart of the number of sports organisation in Guyana and see where they are today, we will see what an achievement, the RHTYSC, MS has brought about in the
Hilbert Foster country,” the President noted as he expressed the wish for the Club to take its success story to areas like Bartica and Mabaruma. The President stated Guyana needs more visionary and dynamic Clubs like the RHTYSC, MS but noted that, “We only have one Hilbert Foster and that’s the problem,” to loud applause from the capacity gathering of Club members, special invitees, donors and government officials. The Club Patron then continued to another round of applause, “And I hope that following the example of the 18th of March (Local Government Election) we will be able to replicate this model in all of the regions. So perhaps I must search the Guyana Constitution to see if I have the power to make this young man
(Foster) a sports ambassador to all of the other regions.” The forty six years old F o s t e r, f o u n d e d t h e RHTYSC, MS at the tender age of 20 years and has served as its Secretary/CEO since 2000 after serving as its
Public Relations Officer from 1990 to 1999. Under his leadership, the Cricket section of the Club has developed into one of the best in Guyana, winning t h r e e n a t i o n a l Championships and winning the Club of the Year in 2004, 2005, 2009 and 2010. The Club also boasts of Guyana’s only female cricket team and every year undertakes an unmatchable total of 300 activities under the sub- headings of sports, charity, culture, education, awards, anti-crime, antisuicide, anti-drugs, honour, youth development and community development
among others. The RHTYSC, MS also created history when it received a National Award – The Medal of Service and has also received awards from Rotary International and the International Olympic Committee. Foster, in 2010 became the first Club official in Guyana to ever receive a National Sports Personality from the National Sports Commission, served the Berbice Cricket Board from 2008 to 2014 as Chairman of its Special Events Committee and successfully supervised the completion of j u s t o v e r 1 5 0 0
programmes/activities. He is primarily viewed as responsible for the BCB’s transformation from a mere cricketed entity into a successful NGO. The administrator is also credited for raising over $20M to transform a swampland into a modern sport facility that now boasts the three pavilions, an allweather Court, sanitary facilities, scoreboard, sightscreens, internal fence and is completely fenced with zinc. Among Foster’s major achievements at the Berbice Cricket Board are cricket at all levels including Inter (Continued on page 32)
t r o Sp
St Lucia Venues ready, but boxing many challenges team remain for Rio Games arrives tonight
An aerial view shows Rio Olympic Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, April 25, 2016.(REUTERS/RICARDO MORAES)
MYO through to quarters after taking first innings from DCC
Who else will stand up for these national gladiators?
The national rugby team acknowledges the fans during a lap of honour last Saturday following their win against Barbados. 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