Page 04
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
A breach of the rights of a child - we suppose Guyana is far from being dubbed the murder capital of the Caribbean but this country has more than its fair share of murders these past few weeks. Indeed, the year began with some horrific murders by a group of drug crazed young men. What made this so shocking was that these were men from the community in which the victims lived. And these drug crazed young men were merely on a robbery spree. Then there were the murders in the hinterland. Many of these stemmed from alcohol but there were some that defied logic. In the North West District two men got into an altercation because the victim’s son was said to be creating some problem for a resident. The victim reportedly retaliated with bow and arrow. He shot at his attacker and ended up being killed by his spent arrow. But the most shocking involved two very young girls. They are accused of killing their father. This is not the first time that children have been known to kill their parents. What broke the mould in Guyana is the fact that one of the accused is a mere 12 years old. To see such a young child climbing the court steps handcuffed to her older sister was a sight that one should never forget. We have had children paraded before the courts but these were vagrants, many of them arrested for vagrancy. There were also those children who would have pilfered things perhaps to satisfy their hunger. However, we have never had so young a person accused of murder. We would have expected this child to be separated from the adults although they were all charged jointly. She should have been taken to court separately. But should she have been charged? The laws suggest that a child so young cannot be responsible for her actions. If indeed that is the law then why was she paraded before the court? Some argue that the situation would be resolved by the end of the trial but that cannot be good enough. For one, the child should be in school. There is a law governing compulsory education. That law states that every child in Guyana up to the age of sixteen should be in school. In cases where there are breaches, the law stipulates that the parents could be prosecuted. In this case the child is being denied her education according to law and no one is being held accountable. Prior to her court appearance she would have been detained in adult conditions. That, too, should not have been done. Strange as this may seem, one does not readily kill one’s parents so for this to happen something horrible had to transpire between parent and the children. There is a suggestion that there was some sexual activity between them. If the 12 year old was the victim of sexual assault then her state of mind would have been extremely disturbed. We will refrain from further comments in this area because of the sub judice clause in the matter. We expect that the child would be in the juvenile holding centre in Sophia but there is still the matter of her being led into court in handcuffs. And we come to the question of rape. The society knows that most of the rapes are perpetrated by people either related to or close and known to the victim. If indeed sexual activity was involved here then the investigators would have needed to be advised before they could lay the charges of murder. We hear that one of the accused was actually raped and that her father accepted a million-dollar compensation but that the victim, although legally an adult, did not share in the compensation. Could this have fuelled something ugly? Perhaps.
President Burnham would not have allowed Harmon such latitude DEAR EDITOR; Reference is made to Nigel Hinds’ letter “Arguments in support of Joe Harmon” (KN 7th April, 2016). His letter started with a 1985 quote from the late President Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham that, “In life and politics as in mathematics you have to accept the highest common factor.” Burnham stands accused or is associated with everything questionable or bad, even in matters that happened after his death. Such has become the nature of Guyana’s politics and warped recount of history. The analogy Hinds chose to use in defence of Minister Harmon’s behaviour regarding the “honourific” appointment of Brian Tiwari and reported intervention into the work of the Guyana Revenue Authority is misplaced. Mr. Burnham’s use of the identified analogy which he explained in the 1985 interview was grounded in a deliberate policy of his government to trade with Caribbean counterparts as against outside of the region, even if it may be costing more. He made the argument that the success of CARICOM would be aided by supporting the trade of member countries. To this end he cited the example that though Guyana is paying more for
buying soap from the Commonwealth of Dominica in lieu of the said product being sourced cheaper in Europe it was his government preferred choice. Here is where the reference of politics (the making of a political decision), the mathematical (cost), and highest common factor (success of CARICOM) was contextually used. The Burnham analogy does not apply to the Harmon incidents and it is hoped Hinds’ reference to it is not meant to be a dog whistle to coalition members and supporters to condone Harmon’s actions and disregard public consternation. Those who worked with Mr. Burnham at ministerial level would be better placed to say what action(s) he would have taken in response to what Harmon has done and is accused of, or whether he would have allowed his authority as Head of the Executive/ Government to be circumvented. Public evidence shows Burnham holding ministers accountable who thought they could have operated off the reservation. To Hinds’ opinion that “it is an incontrovertible fact that aside from President David Granger; Minister Joseph Harmon is the most likely individual to lead PNCR or the APNU Coalition” such is not proven. Here are
the facts and logical possibility:-The PNCR chairman is Mr. Basil Williams and as per the party’s constitution if for some reason the Leader-presently Mr David Granger- is no longer able to serve, the position is filled by the chairman until an election is held. At that election Harmon can only become leader if he contests and wins. In the APNU while not au fait with its rules-and if there exists any as to succession and elections-the leader is Mr. Granger and deputy, Dr. Rupert Roopnarine. Going by normal organisational structure or unless stated otherwise, should Mr. Granger no longer able to serve in that position, by succession it will be filled by Roopnarine. And in government after the President it is the Prime Minister. While Hinds is entitled to defend Harmon he is not entitled to engage in fallacious arguments in such pursuit. It may be better for him, given his view that “The current media pronouncements on the actions of Minister Harmon are absent of any evidence conveyed to the public”, to urge the minister or government to break the silence and help to clear the air or remove suspicions. Minette Bacchus.
Questions abound with that $1billion settlement with BK DEAR EDITOR, It is with much interest that I read your lead story in yesterday’s edition of Kaieteur News headlined “BK gets $1B settlement with Govt.” Much interest as it raises several questions. According to your story, BK International went to court last year after the then Government terminated its contract at the Haags Bosch landfill. BK responded by filing a lawsuit seeking to overturn the decision to terminate. During the ensuing court case, the Government argued that it had the right to terminate the contract and BK had no recourse as it was a private contractual arrangement. That much I can gather in my layman’s mind. In late November, Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang handed down a decision which in essence says that BK had the right to a judicial review…in other words an appeal of the termination.
A few months later, the present administration decided to settle the matter for $1B. The offices of the Attorney General/ Ministry of Legal Affairs were instrumental in striking the deal. We hear of no word of the settlement/deal from the administration. I have several questions that I hope your newspaper will seek to provide answers. I had a look at the court decision by Justice Chang and that settlement and there are a number of glaring things. Representing the Government- the respondents- was Ms. Arianne McLean. I understand that a relative of Ms. McLean, Sita Ramlal, works at the AG office and played a key role in helping to draft the settlement. I am not sure if this should be considered a conflict of interest or just plain improper. Secondly, Guyana should know who made the decision to settle and based on what criteria? Was the Cabinet of
Minister involved? Did they know of the settlement? Or was it just that Ministry involved? I have never heard of another settlement of this nature. Who were the legal minds involved? If consecutive Governments had a problem with the manner in which BK handled the Haags Bosch project why was there a rush to settle? One billion dollars is not “jokey” money. We have a tough year ahead of us. We will be short of cash. On the issue of transparency, should not a matter of this nature be brought before the floor of the National Assembly? Mr Editor, I am asking your well-read newspaper to seek some answers and to maybe tell this Government that it should not be business as usual. There was a change of Government for some good reasons. Almost one year has passed. Just four years remain. K. Persaud
Questions for the Town Clerk DEAR EDITOR; I have read a recent report in the local press captioned ‘City Hall reviews relationship with delinquent contractors’ which goes on to state that the Town Clerk Royston King is concerned about these delinquent contractors who were provided with tools and other resources and already paid by the Council, but who are callously depriving their workers of their pay. If this report had come out a week
earlier, I would have been convinced that it was a sick joke by the newspapers for April 1st, All Fool’s Day. The audacity of King is unbelievable! Which contractors is he talking about? These supposed contractors are relatives and friends of some Councillors, a few who returned to this new Council, and to the Senior Officers including a contractor well known to king. Is he expecting professionalism and sincerity from these persons? Was it not Mr. King who awarded
these contracts, tools and equipment to these persons whom he knew had no prior experience, or standards to maintain, but who were in the project for a quick pay. What City Hall needs to review really, is how one man, whose experience is in selling food and lending money, keeps getting all of the contracts, without even tendering for them, all of which are worth tens of millions each, Can the the Town Clerk. Nadine Jerrick
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 5
The pathetic defence Opinions on youth despair of Joe Harmon by Hinds and sport mistreatment DEAR EDITOR; You do have patience and lots of forbearance to have published Nigel Hinds defence of Mr Harmon in garrulous style. Quite a challenge to read his weak defence via interrogatory challenges. The commentaries by Chris Ram and Anand Goolsarran are very pertinent despite Nigel Hinds classification of verbal assaults, but as he is defending the wanderings of Mr Harmon, he would of course decry and debase any negative expression on Mr Harmon’s behaviour. That Mr Harmon would close his eyes to the various machinations he himself is reported to have made some comments on in the past, plus the well known facts that the previous government had close ties with the two parties viz BK and Bai Shan Ling, then ‘buddy up himself’ with them, is a clear case that his mental acuity is suspect. The activities of those two parties have been a great cause of unease for the people of Guyana and even now as for example the land deals, the tax free vehicles, etc
etc. Did Mr Harmon not know nor hear about the unpleasant activities of these two parties? How come ‘everybody know’ except he? But Nigel Hinds would want us to believe that even if Mr Harmon knew or heard of them, he, Mr Harmon, being of superior knowledge in law, psychology, business, honesty and social committment could not let any failures therein cloud his vision that he could proceed without any fear of disapproval with his actions. Yep! the customary political blindness that the people have to accept what you do as you know best. Well Mr Harmon is dead wrong and should be not only be scolded for his open indiscretions and political blindness, but sent packing forthwith. I will follow Nigel Hinds numerical listings but not as many: 1. the honorific appointment of BK was foolish that when the President learned about it, he himself rescinded it to express his displeasure; (Mr Harmon’s first X on his
way out) 2. the Minister responsible for business did not know that he had a person to advise him on business; (Mr Harmon’s second X on his way out) 3. Mr Harmon’s trip to China does not fall within his portfolio as he was the main official whereas the main officials should have been the Minister of Business and the Minister of Foreign Affairs; (Mr Harmon’s third X on his way out) 4. Mr Harmon’s buddying up with those two persons does raise suspicions on sincerity of purpose a la “show me your company and I can tell who you are”! (Mr Harmon’s fourth X on his way out) 5. if Mr Harmon was the politician who interfered with the scheduled seizure actions of the GRA, then like as in Macbeth “ out brief candle...out!” The nice genteel honourable thing for Mr.Harmon to do is to hand in his resignation and not wait for the axe. Think deeply I say to him and act promptly. Carl Veecock
DEAR EDITOR; Words cannot express the sadness I felt when I look at the Friday 08th dailies and saw a twelve year old girl being charged for murder. Over the years especially during the period when we were being govern under PPP, I penned numerous letters begging/imploring those responsible for our youths, religious leaders and the various organisations to come out with a clear plan to help our youths and I even got into details and use Zeelugt on the East Bank of Essequibo as an example, citing the huge school dropouts, increase drugs and alcohol use and crime. To date no help or project has been introduced to that village, instead there are small gangs emerging, crimes being committed. (some murders). Some villagers are living in torments from these youngsters because the police seem reluctant to act on certain reports that they seems to judge as irrelevant whilst those misbehaving keep increasing their behavior. Because of neglect crime seems to be getting worse
and majority of them seems to be committed by youths. Whilst passing schools, especially the high schools in the afternoon, you could observe lots of young men dress in various fashion styles liming and carrying on conversation with the school children. They are mostly school age and their actions seem to be influencing many to drop out from schools and join them to dress and look ‘cool’. Listening to their vulgar conversations with the school children is very appalling and if one tries to scold them, they are met with a barrage of insults, threats and even assaults. Many parents would observe the actions of these children and would openly share their opinions on proper training. They say that their own might be worse off because they don’t care what they are doing yet when any problems arise they quickly jump up to defend them. I am still waiting to see the administration come up with a plan for these ‘loiterers’ at the schools. Finally Editor, I have posted on my Facebook page my opinion about the sorry
Minister Volda Lawrence should be removed DEAR EDITOR; I hereby refer to the ongoing saga involving Mr. Harding and Minister Lawerence. However, before I attempt to add my areas of concern, may I extend my heartiest congratulations first and foremost to the “bold and fearless journalists associated with the high degree of competence, impartiality and professionalism for this initiative. Additionally, the Red Thread Organisation, other Women’s Group and the sister of Winston Harding for their public expression of disgust, by way of letters; picketing exercises and interviews. In the same breath public disapproval are extended to: WRSM (if they still exist), WPO, Women’s Lawyers Association, Child Protection Agency, Mother’s Union, Men of Purpose (Fathers & Husbands), Youth Groups, Civil Society, Religious Organisations and the Guyana Bar Association. Whereby, the display of dumb insolence, along with absolute silence, transcends
into condoning. This is primarily due to the fact that the involvement of a Government Minister, “sweeping under the carpet” a highly contentious and sensitive issue, smacks of decency, social decorum and spirituality. Factuality and in actuality, the return of the “Dark Ages” are seemingly with us again. Since the display of the Hon. Minister, is tantamount to: “A hard worker of the party must be duly rewarded at all costs, irrespective of the allegation of child molestation”. Party paramountcy reigning supreme. Editor, with Kwame Mcoy never being charged for “child molestation or seduction”. Was it morally correct to have him as a member of the Rights of the Child Commission? Do both of the nation’s two major political parties share a common bond, in condoning these dastardly acts? Suffice it to say, I cannot recall reading in the print media, a comment from the Shadow Minister of Social Protection! Wouldn’t it be
prudent for the Ministry to be renamed “Ministry of Anti Social Non- Protection, in observation of the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary.” As one of the newspapers’ editorial quite rightfully stated. “Ms. Lawerence has bungled this badly, along with displaying a callous approach to what are very serious allegations. The complaints had been investigated and the police had found enough evidence to charge Mr. Harding, not once, but at least three times. He was never convicted because on one occasion, the virtual complainant was prevented from testifying against him and on another, the statement disappeared”. Editor, what prevented the individual from testifying, and the statement disappearing from where, the police station or the court? Finally, with absolutely no confidence in the judicial system, Ms. Lawrence’s continuation as the subject Minister is called into question so is the Child Protection Agency, with its own failure to mount its own investigation devoid
of political interference. At the end of the day a clear cut case has been established that there are laws, for the rich/ poor; powerful/powerless; penniless and downtrodden aided by convenient application and interpretation. With the coalition Government, already in its tenth month of governance, and no indication of judicial reform as yet. By a similar token the 6 months Phillip Rowley led Government, in Trinidad and Tobago, have already fired a Minister, for compromising the integrity of her office, while a Mayor was forced to resign for adverse comments, despite a public apology following the murder of a Carnival reveler. By the way, is Minister Lawerence a mother, wife (married) and is she God-fearing? For any reason what-
s o e v e r, t h e s e q u a l i t i e s should guide her. It’s only prudent that the label of a “hard party worker” is cast aside and she is removed from the Ministry! Lester Sealey
welcome Lisa Punch got at the Timehri Airport and to see our two young ladies from the victorious West Indies women team entering Guyana without a decent welcome is very embarrassing. That is to show the feelings those in authority have for our youths here! Our Director of Sports hastily calls a press conference to say that the GCB did not inform him so that he could have arranged a hero’s welcome for the two young ladies. Now my questions are, as Director of Sports, couldn’t he call and inquire instead of waiting? Couldn’t he get the girls contact numbers and make contact with them personally and apart from the press conference did he convey any congratulatory message to them? Our youths are not getting the credits they deserve and action like these only seems to deter them from shining. Perhaps our Director of Sports take time off from updating Facebook of where he is and actually show us what he is doing when enjoying himself, because the last time I recall seeing the deplorable conditions some of our athletes had to eat in whilst they are representing Guyana! Sahadeo Bates
Page 6
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
AG Williams distances self from Harmon’s behavior By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell The coalition of A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) is maintaining a deafening silence on allegations of corruption. Observers are deeming this an ominous sign. The government has not held any post-Cabinet press conferences for the last three weeks. Therefore the nation is missing out on being informed on matters that have gained the attention of Cabinet as well as Cabinet decisions on those matters. Also, post-Cabinet press briefings would have presented the media with an opportunity to question the government officials on matters of public interest. These would include issues involving Minister of State, Joseph Harmon. Attorney General, Basil Williams has distanced himself from the actions of his colleague, Harmon. He told Kaieteur News, “I do not know about it and I do not want to know.” On Thursday, Williams hosted a press conference at his Carmichael Street Office about legal issues surrounding the recently concluded Local Government Elections. When Kaieteur News questioned him he said, “We did not call any meeting to take off-statement questions.” Eventually, he gave in and allowed a few questions. Asked about the mea-
sures Government is taking to address the Harmon issue in a manner that will deter other Ministers from going down the road Harmon went, Williams said, “I cannot answer that. I have absolutely no idea about it.” Further questioned, Williams said, “I really do not know anything about it. Is the Attorney General supposed to have an idea of what every Minister does? I am to watchman the Ministers? The matter did not come to Cabinet.” He told Kaieteur News that the questions were being directed at the wrong Minister. “I think you are directing your questions to the wrong person and I will not address any issue I have no knowledge of.” Questioned about how he can maintain such ignorance on the issue when it was widely reported on in the press, Williams said, “What press reports? Tell me about a truthful press report that I need to address? The scandal surrounding the apparent controversial link between logging company BaiShanLin and Minister of State Joseph Harmon is also still to be addressed. Kaieteur News published reports that Harmon halted a seizure operation that was being carried out on BaiShanLin. The operation was being executed by GRA in collaboration with officials from the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU). The vehicles were being seized due to the fact that the
Chinese company failed to pay the required duties within the legally stipulated timeframe. But before the GRA and SOCU officials could carry out the seizures, they received a call from Harmon who instructed that the vehicles must not be removed, that the ranks should leave the company alone, and to walk away from the premises. Several attempts have been made by this newspaper to contact Harmon on the matter, but all proved futile. The article was first published over a week ago and the Minister has not even issued a statement in an effort to clear the air. Eventually the vehicles were seized. But the government is still to say how it intends to address Harmon’s actions which some are describing as rogue behaviour. Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan is still to update the media of an investigation he had promised to launch into the matter. Jordan had said, “I am
Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan going to investigate the veracity of this allegation.” But efforts to contact him subsequently proved futile. Anti-corruption advocates are outraged. David Hinds, Christopher Ram and Anand Goolsarran have all made strong comments on the
Minister of State, Joseph Harmon
Attorney General, Basil Williams
matter. They all expressed disappointment in Harmon and said Guyana cannot be made to suffer a repeat of what was had under the rule of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Goolsarran said, “This runaway train must be halted in its track before it is too late,” as he noted the repercussions of political interference in GRA. Citizens have also been airing their disappointment in the letter pages of Kaieteur
News. Harmon is yet to fully justify his actions in appointing Brain Tiwari as Ministerial Advisor on Business. Kaieteur News understands that Harmon made this move without securing the blessings of President David Granger. In fact, the President did not even know that Tiwari was working for his government in that capacity. As soon as he found out, President Granger rescinded the appointment.
$400 million fertilizer contract was for farmers benefit - GRDB Following the controversy that was raised about the Guyana Rice Development Board’s (GRDB) contract with overseas based HDM labs Inc. for the supply of urea fertilizer, the GRDB yesterday offered justification for the deal. According to the GRDB, discussions were started with suppliers overseas and a contract was entered into with HDM labs, because of the “perceived urgency” in the industry caused by the loss of the Venezuelan rice market last year. “Guyana Rice Development Board held consultations with farmers and farmers’ representatives towards the end of the second rice crop in 2015, with the aim of assisting farmers with reducing production costs of growing paddy.” “Following the decision by Venezuela to stop importing rice and paddy from Guyana, millers were selling their rice on the world market from US$335 to US$400 per tonne,” GRDB pointed out. “The price paid by Venezuela was US$ 760 per tonne. It therefore was imperative that farmers manage their produc-
- Rice farmers’ plight necessitated urgency tion costs and improve productivity.” According to GRDB, one of the ways in which this could have been done was by assisting in making fertilizer available to farmers at lower prices. The price for urea fertilizer at that time was between $5,500 and $6,500 per bag. “It is noteworthy, that when local suppliers became knowledgeable of GRDB’s attempt to reduce the cost of fertilizer to farmers for supply of urea, the price immediately fell from $1,000 to $2,000 per bag.” “However, while payment for the fertilizer was by Letter of Credit established through a local commercial bank, the supplier requested that the Letter of Credit be irrevocable and transferable.” The GRDB stated that this suggested that a supply from that source was not immediately available. However, the local bank only provides the service of irrevocable Letter of
Credit which is not transferrable. “GRDB continued to monitor the supply and prices of urea on the local market and has been in constant communication with HDM Labs Inc. since the supply of this commodity can no longer be considered urgent and immediate.” The Rice Board, which is an extension of the Ministry of Agriculture and is managed by General Manager, Nizam Hassan, has been taking flak from certain quarters including the Rice Producers Association (RPA) over the deal, which is being described as having been made behind closed doors. During a recent press conference, the RPA told media operatives that the government had “subverted” the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) for the solesourcing of fertilizer. The association related that Cabinet approved a contract for the procurement of urea fertilizer to the value of over $400M, with the executing agent being GRDB.Noting that the move contravened norms and conventions applicable to the acquisition of farmers’ inputs, they also stated that there
GRDB General Manager, Nizam Hassan was no advertisement and bidding, which is the “imperative prelude to a process that follows the prescribed conventions for the sourcing of farming supplies.” “The contractor identified is not known to be a supplier of urea but has been a popular and publiclyknown campaign financier of the APNU/AFC Coalition in the recent elections.” The RPA had also said that companies and individuals who have for decades supplied urea to the Guyanese market, at “highly competitive prices” that were negotiated by the RPA – which is the rice farmers’ representative, were not notified of the contract.
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
More migrants return to Turkey from Greece under EU pact
A Turkish-flagged passenger boat carrying migrants to be returned to Turkey leaves the port of Mytilene on the Greek island of Lesbos, yesterday. (Reuters/Giorgos Moutafis) (Reuters) - Two ferries carrying more than 120 migrants returned to Turkey from the Greek island of Lesbos yesterday, in the second round of arrivals under an EU deal with Ankara to stem mass migration to Europe across the Aegean Sea. The accord, which came into force on Monday, aims to help end a chaotic influx into the European Union of migrants and refugees, most fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and beyond, after more than 1 million arrived last year. Around 325 people have now been sent back from the Greek islands under the accord, which the U.N. refugee agency (UNHCR) has condemned and rights advocates say may violate international law. They are to be sent to a camp near Turkey’s border with Bulgaria, to which the UNHCR said it had yet to gain access. The first ferry yesterday carried a group of 44 Pakistani men, Turkey’s interior ministry said. Around two dozen uniformed Turkish police officers lined the boarding plank after it docked in the Turkish town of Dikili, accompanied by two coast guard vessels. The second ferry, which arrived shortly after 12:30 p.m. (930 GMT), carried 79 people, including migrants from Egypt, Afghanistan and Iraq, a Turkish official told Reuters. There were no Syrians on either boat, the official said, and the second group ap-
peared to be almost all men, according to a Reuters reporter at the scene. No boats are expected over the weekend, Turkish officials said. RIGHTS PROTESTS Before the boat left Lesbos, at least two rights activists plunged into the water close by, dangling from the anchor chain and flashing the ‘V’ for victory sign in an attempt to prevent the vessel from sailing. They were plucked from the water by the Greek coastguard, while more activists stood at the gates of the port of Mytilene blowing whistles and banging on metal barriers. From Dikili, the migrants were to be sent to the border town of Kirklareli. UNHCR spokeswoman Selin Unal said the agency was still negotiating for access to the camp there. A first group of 202 mi-
grants, most from Pakistan and Afghanistan, arrived in Turkey on Monday. Turkey’s parliament approved overnight an agreement enabling Ankara to repatriate Pakistani migrants. Meanwhile, other migrants continued to reach the Greek islands. Greek authorities said 149 had arrived in the past 24 hours on Lesbos, Samos and Chios, up from 76 the previous day. Under the EU-Turkey agreement, Ankara will take back all migrants and refugees, including Syrians, who enter Greece through irregular routes. In return, the EU will take in thousands of Syrian refugees directly from Turkey and reward Ankara with more money, early visa-free travel for its citizens and progress in negotiations to join the bloc.
Page 7
Page 8
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
MINISTER WARNS NURSES Opposition to file ABOUT SICK LEAVE no-confidence motion
Daily Observer - Describing the issue as a betrayal of their duty, Minister of Health Molwyn Joseph said he will not tolerate the amount of sick leave taken by nurses at the Mount St John Medical Centre (MSJMC). The minister told OBSERVER media, on Thursday, that last year, collectively, the nurses at MSJMC took more than 2,000 days of sick leave. “In 2015, there were about 2,300 sick days taken by the nurses at the hospital,” he said. “Doctors, nurses, and technicians must understand that we will not tolerate any conduct that jeopardizes the responsibility that they have to take care of the citizens and residents of this country. I want that to be very clear,” Joseph said. MSJMC confirmed that the number of nursing staff at the hospital is approximately 216. This includes around 110 registered nurses, and the remainder being other nursing staff.
Molwyn Joseph The minister was the most recent health official to weigh in on the issue of sick leave at MSJMC. On Wednesday, Chairman of Board of Directors Bernard Percival indicated that the rate was affecting hospital operations. “It (the rate) is pretty high. It’s higher than it should be,” he said. Explaining why, he said, “They’re working shift and they’re working very hard.” However, “Some nurses, of course, have several jobs. There’s no restriction on
that so we have nurses who work elsewhere. And that can be a factor in determining whether you come to work or not or whether you call in sick.” “It’s a serious impediment because, if, for example, you have a shift that needs four nurses and you have two, you shortchange the patients.” On Thursday, the President of the Nursing Association, Laurellyn Williams, responded to the chairman’s comments and challenged the hospital Board to examine why nurses so readily take sick leave. “Frequent sick leave and absenteeism do not exist in a vacuum, but are indicators of the dynamics of the organization. It is just a symptom of the problem. When people are dissatisfied with management they either stay away or they show up and do not perform at their maximum and would not have loyalty to the organisation,” she charged.
Panama Papers: Argentina President Macri to go before judge BBC News - Argentine President Mauricio Macri has pledged to assert his innocence when he appears before a federal prosecutor yesterday to explain his finances. An investigation began on Thursday after it transpired Mr Macri was mentioned in the Panama Papers, leaked files of law firm Mossack Fonseca. Mr Macri said he would file a judicial “declaration of certainty” so the court can see he is telling the truth. In a televised address, he vowed to prove he had done nothing wrong. According to local media reports, the president was listed as director of an offshore company in the Bahamas. He said he wanted to cooperate fully with any inquiry. “I know there are some people concerned about
Mauricio Macri
Opposition Leader Mia Mottley (second left) flanked by Members of Parliament Kerrie Symmonds (left), Dwight Sutherland (second right) and Gline Clarke during yesterday’s Press conference. (Picture by Xtra Vision Photography Daily Nation - The Opposition Barbados Labour Party (BLP) will next week file a noconfidence motion in the Freundel Stuart-led Democratic Labour Party (DLP) Government. It will be the third such motion filed by the BLP since the DLP first came to power in 2008. The latest was revealed today by Opposition Leader Mia Mottley, who believes it is “entirely possible” the motion could be actually debated when the House of Assembly resumes sittings on April 19. In making Thursday’s announcement at the Opposition Leader’s office on Parliament’ West Wing, Mottley was flanked by fellow MPs Kerrie Symmonds, Cynthia Forde, Dwight Sutherland, Edmund Hinkson, Trevor Prescod, Gline Clarke, and candidate for Christ Church East Central, economist Ryan Straughn.
Mottley said the BLP’s Parliamentary council had decided on the no-confidence because “enough is enough.” “Over the course of the last 13 weeks, Barbados has experienced an unparalleled series of dislocation, bad news, challenges and crises,” the BLP leader noted, while citing the problems which media houses have highlighted for 2016, inclusive of the country’s water and drought issues, trade union activity that led to the Bridgetown Port and Grantley Adams International Airport being closed, industrial action by Barbados Water Authority employees, and the environmental difficulties being dealt with by a number of primary and secondary schools. She said it is time for Government to stop doing its business “by stealth” and “anonymity. “That equates to no Government at all,” Mottley told re-
porters. “It is bred by a culture of silence which is unacceptable given the dire state of affairs in this country today,” she added. “We therefore passed, and agreed to file a motion of no-confidence in the Government of Barbados because we do not believe that Barbados can continue to coast or drift for another 22 months on a platform of indifference, and incompetence.” The Opposition Leader said Barbadians need to be given the facts. “This is not about having the Parliamentary majority. We clearly do not have that. But it is about bringing the facts to the people of the country, because Barbadians deserve the right to be able to determine their future and their destiny on the basis of the facts presented to them.” She said that in almost every area or sector of Government, Barbados is in crisis.
CARICOM concerned about “tax haven” label in wake of Panama Papers leak these allegations in the Panama Papers that have come out and involve me,” he said. “I want to say one more time that I am very calm, I have complied with the law, I have told the truth and I have nothing to hide.”
Mr Macri said that he had made clear in his initial declaration that he did not have any shares and did not receive any payment for acting as a director of offshore companies. His office has insisted that he had no shares in the company in question and never received any income from it. Argentina’s national tax authority and anti-corruption office will be asked to provide information to the inquiry. Prosecutor Federico Delgado said he wanted to determine if Mr Macri had “omitted, with malicious intent” mentioning his reported role in the Bahamas-registered offshore company Fleg Trading.
GEORGETOWN, Guyana – The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has expressed concern that the “tax havens” label is again being attached to the financial services centres in member states, following the leak of the so-called Panama Papers. In a statement issued Thursday, CARICOM said the loose use of the designation ignores the reality that the regulation of this sector in the region is fully compliant with international standards. It stressed that all CARICOM Member States and Associate Members are committed to, and are in compliance with, the international
certification process of the IMF/World Bank Financial Sector Assessment Programme (FSAP), the Global Forum of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Financial Action Task Force and the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF). “Bilateral commitments have also been made under the United States implementation regime for the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA),” it added. “As more disclosures unfold with respect to the leak of these financial records, CARICOM urges caution by those making the leap towards moral in-
dignation and the unjust labelling of the financial services centres in the Community, which have taken all necessary steps to ensure compliance with international regulations and standards.” The Panama Papers are a leaked set of 11.5 million confidential documents that provide detailed information about more than 214,000 offshore companies across the world, including in the Caribbean, listed by Panamanian law firm Mossack Fonseca. The documents show how some wealthy individuals, including public officials, have hidden their money to avoid paying taxes.
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 9
Marie Curie: A Role Model for Our Children Guyanese now seem to be rediscovering the importance of science. It is, however, one thing for the government to want to encourage science and it is another thing to get children interested in science. Improving the teaching of science within our schools will encourage greater interest in science. But the countries that have been successful in science are those that have been able to generate interest in science in children from an early age. We should not wait until children enter the formal school system before we fire their thirst and hunger for scientific knowledge. We should begin this initiation from an early age and this should happen firstly at home.
Children are naturally inquisitive about things around them. Just recently I was speaking with my own grandchild who after looking at the West Indies fast bowlers asked me how by jumping a bowler gains more speed. Now, that is a scientific question that will require inputs supported by facts about biomechanics, momentum and motion, all of which are fascinating subject areas in science. The question shows how much our children are keen on understanding the world around them. Thus, the right age to cultivate an active interest in science is when our children are very young. When children are young, they have questioning minds and their constant question-
ing can be at times irritable, but only because we adults to whom the questions are posed do not always have the answers. They expose through their constant probing questions, the inadequacies of their parents, and sometime we react by telling them how they ask too many questions, which is the worst thing that can be done since this will only discourage the development of an active mind. Even if we do not know the answer to a question, we need to encourage this thought process of our children because it is only by asking questions that they grow in knowledge. We also need to expose them to role models. I recall
Dem boys seh...
Dem Willie cousin want cause trouble There is an old saying; Where there’s Love, there is Life and where there is Unity, there is strength. De only man who know different from that is Jagdeo, that scamp. When he hear bout Unity, he think bout Mahaica and when he hear bout Love he think bout Babbie. Carvil Dunkin been at a meeting, yesterday, planning fuh de May Day rally. In his speech, dem boys hear him seh that this year should only have one rally because where there is unity there is strength. Dem boys couldn’t help breaking down de office of de Waterfalls wid laughter when dem hear that. Dem boys seh he ain’t learn nutten because he partner in crime, Ash Deo, who suppose to stay in unity wid him and create that strength, disappear. Nobody don’t know if de man still breathing. What he don’t know is that he alone
spending time at Lot 12 or Mazaruni. Is not he alone stupidy. Basil de Willie, de cousin of Clinty de Willie, in de same boat. De only thing is he got a different saying, “save thyself and let thy brother go astray.” When dem reporter ask him to talk about he friend, Li’l Joe who now tun Joe Humble, Basil de Willie shout at dem. He seh he nah hear nutten, he nah see nutten and neither he nah know nutten. That was de case of saving youself and let you colleague go astray. Dem boys seh he got li’l sense to keep he mouth shut. He come over smelling good. If he did only try to defend he padnah he woulda come over like Jagdeo, that scamp. He does defend every thief man, every scamp, every hooligan, every wrongdoer till he look like all of dem. Talk half and leh dem know Soulja Bai seh nobody ain’t jooking ee eye.
when I was a teenager how fascinated I was by the work of scientists and how they came upon the discoveries that changed the face of human history. One day, I was in the library and came across this biography of one of the greatest scientists of the twentieth century, Marie Curie. I borrowed the book and could not put it down. That was a long time ago, but I still recall how engrossed I was in the story of this amazing woman. I have searched long and hard ever since to try to find a biography of Marie Curie so that I could share the story of this woman with my grandchildren. I have not been successful so far but I am sure there are many such works available. I urge any parents or guardians who wish to harness their children’s natural propensity for science; who wish to satiate their offspring’s appetite for answers to the puzzles of science, to introduce your chil-
dren to the story of Marie Curie. This was a simple woman, born in Poland, whose love for science forced her to break with tradition and immigrate to France. There she pursued her studies eventually becoming a doctor of science. In Paris also, she met her husband who was a renowned scientist. They married and continued their work in science. They were neither rich nor comfortable. In fact they were not fortunate to have some of the modern equipment, laboratories and resources which today’s scientists have at their disposal. Their facilities were primitive, and yet this amazing couple was able to isolate two important chemical elements, one of which was radium and to pioneer the study and understanding of radioactivity. Their story is fascinating. One of the things that really struck me about this poor woman was her deep love for scientific knowledge. Despite the hardships she endured
before being awarded the Nobel Prize, she was obsessed with her work and dedicated her entire life to the study of science. She made science her life’s vocation and with her husband would work from sunrise to sunset in trying to improve mankind’s knowledge of whatever she was studying. Such dedication is inspirational. She is the perfect role model for our young children who have an interest in science and who may wish to continue into higher studies. I urge any parent to introduce their children to the lifestory of this great woman whose brilliance and painstaking efforts helped to transform the scientific community and whose findings was later to lead to so many innovations that have benefited mankind.
Page 10
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
== THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN ==
Did this man sexually molest his daughters? My view on domestic abuse is that women who kill oppressive lovers who constantly batter them should not be jailed. My understanding of the world we live in is that it rests on context. Everything in life is contextual. I would not respect you with a “Good morning” if you are known to have strong expressive views on
racial superiority. My disrespect is contextual. If John has 50 goals in a football career spanning ten years and 25 matches, then it means that he scored five goals each year of playing and two goals in each match he played in. If Jerry has 40 goals in a five-year career and played 20 matches, then context becomes important in judging who is a better player. Statistically John has the distinction of being the highest scorer in history for the club. But if context is added, Jerry may be a better player. I was literally stunned when I saw a BBC columnist using context to compare the brilliance of Sachin Tendulkar with other cricketers. In looking at the statistics of Tendulkar with the Sri Lankan player, Kumar Sangakkara, the West Indian Chris Gayle and others, the columnist showed that Tendulkar’s brilliance is not so stunning despite the actual centuries, fifties and
matches he has over many other cricketers. I would suggest if you are interested in the power of context, then read the following, “Sachin Tendulkar: The 29th Best Batsman in the World?” by Ben Carter, BBC online edition, November 15, 2013. See my take on Carter’s research in my November 21, 2013 column. If you understand context, then you can comprehend the untold nuances of life. I have not at the time of writing investigated complaints and reports I am getting that a murdered father incessantly molested his two very young daughters. I don’t want to go into details because the daughters have been charged with murder and further discussion may not be proper in the context of court proceedings. In the US, commentators have more latitude. If what is being circulated about the dead father had hit the press in the US, countless numbers of persons would have pub-
lished their opinion as to the murder charge. I could envisage people of the talk show circuit demanding the girls’ release. Our legal system is different. Now that we have these reports, it is for the police to investigate them. Naturally, the girls themselves should open up to the police. They should express and describe in every conceivable detail what happened to them over the years of living with their father. This is a very unusual situation and the press, human rights organizations and women groups ought to start their respective investigation. Let me get back to context. If it can be proved that these girls were constantly abused then society may want to advocate a certain course of action. The world has long become intolerant of domestic abuse and parental molestation of young children. Men should be severely punished for brutalizing their women folk. If it wasn’t such a trag-
edy, women-battering could be seen as having a light side to it. These men pick on women who cannot fight back. They beat up women who cannot defend themselves. But throw them in a ring with men and many of them would be pulverized. In other words, they are congenital cowards. That makes you laugh. This is why I referred to the saga having a light side. When the murder charge was made public, it immediately drove a curious note into your head. Why would they go to such extreme lengths? Of course, there is the other side of the coin. Why couldn’t they walk away and look for happier pastures? If that was a difficult road to pursue then it should have been tried no matter what. But can we ever understand the way battered women and molested children feel? Desperation makes people do really crazy things. Can we understand the emo-
Frederick Kissoon tion of a young girl whose father would come in drunk each night, create confusion, beat her up and there is no prospect of escape? I don’t know if the things I heard are true but if they are, then, it brings into view another sad story about this country. Just look at the smallness of our population and the incredible per capita statistics on murder and violence. Something is just not right about this country and the runaway train of violence seems unstoppable. This country is drowning in the crimes of rape, incest, child molestation, domestic violence and homicidal madness.
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 11
Tobacco Control Bill for Former GTU President acquitted of carnal Parliament next month
The long awaited Tobacco Control Bill is expected to be tabled at the next sitting of the National Assembly, Public Health Minister George Norton said yesterday. After many delays, the Bill is finally being tabled, Norton stated. He added that a Cabinet sub-committee had reviewed and approved it. He indicated that the final approval was granted a week ago at a Cabinet sitting. The sub-committee functions to examine all Bills before submission to the National Assembly. Cabinet had given approval for the Tobacco Control Bill to be submitted to the Parliament last year but the Bill was still under scrutiny by the committee. However, even as Government moves to ban smoking in public places, one of the main stakeholders in the tobacco trade - Demerara Tobacco Ltd - has alleged that it was excluded from the consultation process for the drafting of the new legislation. Managing Director, Maurlain Argyle-Kirton, said, yesterday, that it was disturbing that the Company was not included in the consultations. “Unfortunately and disturbingly, Demerara Tobacco has not been consulted despite many consultations on the Bill over the years,” she stated. The Company has not yet laid eyes on the contents of the Bill, said Argyle-Kirton. She asserted that despite many attempts to have engagement with the Public Health Ministry, no one sought to question why a piece of legislation that is so important to Guyana’s economy and public health, should be
managed so “confidentially.” Dr Norton stated that he had invited the company to meet with the ministry to discuss the contents of the Bill. This Bill, he said, will provide for the implementation of tobacco control policies in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco control. It is also intended to protect present and future generations from the “devastating harms” of tobacco use, exposure to tobacco smoke, and specifically to prevent tobacco use among youths. Currently, more than one in five students use a form of tobacco, with 9.5 % of students smoking cigarettes and 14.8 % using some other form of tobacco. This was revealed in the Guyana Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) for 2010. It stated that 11.4 % of Guyanese youths, who were non-smokers, were likely to initiate smoking by the next year. The legislation would also seek to ensure that the public is protected from the commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry, while preventing the illicit trade in tobacco products. Each year, tobacco kills 6 million people: 5.4 million active smokers and 600,000 nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke. It is the single legal consumer product that
kills up to half of its users when used exactly as intended by the manufacturer, costing the global economy an estimated US$200 billion each year. A PAHO/WHO report indicated 71% of men consume tobacco while only 3.6% women are users in Guyana. This is a typical profile of tobacco consumption since men usually consume more than women at the beginning. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Regional Advisor on Tobacco Control Dr Adrianna Blanco had stated that, “this is something that if you don’t take care of it, it will get worst”. A section of the legislation includes increasing taxes on tobacco products. The Charity Cancer Research UK researchers had indicated that tripling tobacco tax globally would cut smoking by a third. The researchers stated that increasing taxes by a large amount per cigarette would motivate people to quit smoking altogether rather than switch to a cheaper brand. At present, cigarettes are so easily accessible they are sold singly-the price going as low as $40.
knowledge charge By Rehanna Ramsay
Former President of the Guyana Teacher’s Union, (GTU) Colywn King, 52, has been found not guilty of carnal knowledge. King is acquitted some seven years after he was charged for having sexual relations with a teenage girl. According to the allegation, the former GTU President had carnal knowledge of a 15-year-old female on October 6, 2009. Back then, the GTU official was arrested on October 14 and was released on $100,000 bail after the teenage girl leveled charges of being sexually involved with him at a Princes Street hotel. Yesterday, King was told that he is free to go after he was found not guilty of the charge by a mixed twelve-member jury. The ex-GTU head had been on bail ever since the allegation surfaced in 2009. He had pleaded not guilty to the charge at the commencement of an in camera proceeding before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. King was represented by Attorney-at-Law, Darren Wade. During the trial, State Prosecutors, Tuanna Hardy and Narissa Leander called eight witnesses, including the victim, to the stand. Yesterday, King exited the courtroom of Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, with a relieved look on his face. Moments before, he stood nervously in the prisoners’ dock, awaiting word from the Jury on the fate of his future. The Jury took almost three hours to return the not guilty verdict of 10 – 2.
Former GTU President, Colwyn King But before he was permitted to leave, Justice Sewnarine-Beharry told King that although he was found not guilty by the Court, he may still have to deal with the judgment from above. “You escaped judgment from the law but you will not escape judgment from God,” Justice Sewnarine -Beharry stated. At the initial stages of the matter, King was granted bail in the sum of $250,000 by former Magistrate Fazil Azeez. At that time, concerns were expressed over the whereabouts of witnesses and the matter being drawn out.
Page 12
Kaieteur News
Parliament to become more effective
Parliamentarians, Committee chairpersons and clerks at the Parliament office of Guyana are now equipped to make the operations of the Parliament more effective. They had just concluded a three-day extensive training conducted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). The workshop covered the functions of committees, policy-making, development of legislation and overall international best practices guiding the operations of Parliaments. Chairperson of the
CPA, Yasmin Ratansi, said that the exchange of ideas was to chart the way forward for Guyana’s Parliament. “We would like to ensure that as we exchange ideas, the good points are brought together,” she said. In so doing, Parliamentarians’ responsibility to their constituency is strengthened, Ratansi added. The CPA Chairperson believes that Guyanese Parliamentarians are capable of addressing the issues affecting the country’s peoples. This, she said, impressed her team. “The Guyanese people
have a lot of experience, a lot of intelligence and they can find solutions to all the problems…They gave us the solutions and what we can do is give you additional tools for best practices and together, because Parliament is such an evolving process, we hope we can work and build a better future for everyone.” The CPA will continue to give guidance to the process. The association and the Parliament of Guyana have over the years conducted several training programmes with parliamentarians and staff of the parliament office to build capacity in keeping with international best practices. (GINA)
Saturday April 09, 2016
Easy release of containers for importers who refuse to pay bribes
Government has green-lighted a proposal submitted by Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, to introduce a ‘Trusted Trader’ programme to benefit legitimate businesses in Guyana. This proposal was developed as a result of complaints received over the past 10 months that the refusal of several well-established businesses to pay inducements to public officials has resulted in them being targeted with delays in the processing of their transactions. “This has, in many cases, resulted in commodities with short shelf lives being left on the wharves to expire, while minor queries are used to delay the importation process for weeks. These actions have resulted in the loss of millions of dollars to businesses, which in turn, affects Government’s revenue collec-
tion,” a Government statement disclosed yesterday. The Trusted Trader status will be granted to businesses that meet certain criteria related to their history of compliance. This status will allow for the release of consignments prior to the processing of import documents, as well as other benefits that acknowledge the high level of trustworthiness implied in the status. “Cabinet will appoint a Working Group with representatives from the Ministries of Business and Finance (Guyana Revenue Authority) and at least one other interested Ministry, to undertake consultation with stakeholders. The Working Group will be expected to submit a report with specific and detailed recommendations to Cabinet by April 29, 2016.”
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 21
Cop killer remanded Ministry of Health arson accused out on bail
Dennis Marks
Police Sergeant Leonard La Rose
Police said a farmer who was shot by the police after he allegedly stabbed and killed a GPF officer at Matthews Ridge was remanded to prison yesterday. Charged with the murder of 52-year-old Police Sergeant Leonard La Rose, Dennis Marks (no address given) was not required to plead when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to answer the murder charge. Marks, 32, who sustained a bullet wound to his left foot, had to be seated on a chair while police officers carried him into the courtroom. According to police reports, he murdered
the Sergeant who was on duty on March 1, at Holes, Matthews Ridge North West District. It was reported that the accused attacked police ranks with a knife while they were investigating him for a rape charge he had in court. Police said that the Sergeant was stabbed to the neck and was later pronounced dead at Pakera Hospital, Matthews Ridge while his perpetrator was shot in the left foot. Marks was remanded to prison. His case will be called again at the Matthews Ridge Magistrate’s Court on May 3. The slain Sergeant was stationed in the interior since 1999 and resided at Wisroc, Linden.
One of the people said to be responsible for setting the Health Ministry on fire seven years ago was on Friday granted $250,000 bail when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Keith Ferrier denied the charge which read that on July 17, 2009, he, along with others, set fire to the Health Ministry. Attorney-at-Law Patrice Henry made a successful application for his client’s pretrial liberty this time. Ferrier will have to return to court on April 24 for statements. According to reports, on the day in question, about 03:00h, perpetrators hurled improvised Molotov cocktails into the upper flat of the main building of the Ministry. As a result of the fire, more than 200 persons were dislocated and the entire building destroyed. Following an investigation, it was concluded that the fire was an act of arson. After the fire, the Guyana Police Force issued a wanted bulletin for Ferrier; George Lashley, 60, of Lot 187 Freeman Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown and others for setting the fire. However, Clayton
Westford, 19, an Office Assistant, of 7 West La Penitence, and 21-year-old Tedena Bagot, a pork-knocker of 32 Second Street, Alexander Village, were subsequently charged for the fire.
Ferrier evaded Police capture after being released on $350,000 bail. He was nabbed at a business establishment on North Road, Bourda, earlier this year, after Police ranks recognised him.
CJIA Chief Security Officer, other key... From page 17 recommended that the CJIAC Board review the acting appointment of the Security Manager. In addition, it was advised that efforts be made to appoint a new Aviation Security Manager, whether from internal or external sources. In the report, the auditor advised that this be done as it has been two years since the Aviation Security Department was formed. She advocated that the issue be addressed, since the Security Department is critical to Airport Operations. The report also recommended that the Corporation prepare a strategic plan every four to five years. It stated that
the Organization Structure needed to be reviewed for effective and efficient management of the airport. Since the audit report was released, it was shown that the airport has not filled the position of a Procurement Officer, instead allowing a purchasing clerk to fulfill those functions. This was described as detrimental considering the size of the airport's operations and indeed there have been several lapses in the corporation's procurement. The audit is one of many ordered into Government agencies by the new administration upon ascending to office last year.
Page 22
Kaieteur News
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 SERVICES
WANTED
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
One live in domestic must know to cook- 25-35yrs $80,000 monthly-Call: 6105043
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 Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves – Contact Nick: 6831312, 627-3206 INNOVATIVE MARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045
1 General Domestic must know to cook & Iron, responsible sales clerk, honest & have a passion for fashion. Call: 668-4973 Male sales assistant: allrounder for PVC products must have Maths/English. Apply @ Key Food Trading, Mc Doom Village. Driver – posses a valid Guyanese drivers license & clean record of safe driving. Contact: 231-4999; 677-0480/ email:irbcguy@gmail.com Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic. Call: 223-7500, Monday –Saturday between 8:15am-4:15pm Two skilled carpenters to work on interior ceiling $7,000 per day. Call: 652-6565; 231-4681 1 General domestic must know to prepare Indian & English dishes to work in Bel-Air. Call: 227-0373 from 8am-4pm
Are you looking for a day & One porter boy to work & night care centre then call 2 clean vehicles in the interior. Sister’s Day Care. Tel: 692- Call: 678-0505 1149; 639-2161; 650-3037 One shop boy to work in Professional Counselors. shop in the interior. Call: 678Contact Ms Oneika: 670-5759 0565 1 Male or female look after layer birds in the interior. Call: 678-0565 Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665 CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM
One handyman. 30 and 45 years old. Contact 2235273/4
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807
1 Female to work in snackette & bar. Must know to cookbetween ages 20-35 -Call: 6477432/ 223-5798
Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494 Reliable rentals: Cars, SUV – low rates & security deposits, special rates for long term. Call: 227-2322; 6012622 TAXI SERVICES GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
Experienced waitress, female bartenders, bouncers needed at Eden’s Bar & Lounge. Call for appointment 652-0074
One receptionist ages 25 yrs & older with working experience. Please Call for more info: 223-0090 Driver wanted to work in Georgetown. Call: 227-1717 Porters wanted to work @ Grocery Stall in Stabroek market, experienced is an asset. Call: 226-9800 One able bodied porter/clerk. Call: 231-2029; 616-5954 Factory workers from age 18 and older with working experience. Call: 223-0090
Saturday April 09, 2016
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Bel-Air Park: long & Shortterm- Offices, furnished apartments & rooms: Breakfast, AC, hot & cold water, WiFi, security, etc- Call: 623-1575; 686-1805
VACANCY 1 Female cleaner apply @ Technical Service 18-23 Industrial Site, Eccles. Welder/ fabricator, Diesel Mechanic, Apprentice, labourer. Apply in person @Technical Services,18-23 Eccles Industrial Site. Cook/baker for the Interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020 Landscape Maintenance Vacancy: Hardworking, pleasant, team player, 17-28 years. Contact: 219-0468/ 6212453 GLC Hiring: master carpenters, experienced mason, qualified plumber for a project in Corentyne Berbice. Call: 683-5629 1 Nail technician, 1 Spa attendant with knowledge of facials & body massage. Call: 696-7337 for details. Experienced seamstress, sewing machine operators and floor girls @ Roxie’s Fashion. Call: 227-8538; 6224386 Exist for 1 entertainment manager to work @ Club on Essequibo Coast, must have PR skills. Call: 226-9768
One bedroom furnished appointment at lot 4 Henry Street, Werk-en-Rust, G/town. Call: 231-7364; 679-4719 2 Bedrooms apartment in Eccles for rent, recently built, fully secured -$80,000 per month. Call: 641-0568 One apartment for rent at Mon Repos, E.C.D –Call: 220-7330; 602-4105 Prashad Nagar: furnished 3 bedrooms executive house, internet/cable TV/ hot n cold/ parking/laundry/security camera/alarm -$2,000USD. Call: 663-2044 Section K Campbellville: furnished 2 bedroom apartment -$900USD, furnished 1 bedroom apartment -$850USD. Call: 663-2044 Prashad Nagar Bottom flat: furnished & unfurnished apartment, 3 bedrooms with A/C, hot & cold, internet $1500USD & $1900USD. Call: 663-2044 One 2 bedrooms bottom flat, fully grilled, self contained with A/C, space for 1 car. Call: 650-2708
Vacancy exists for waitress at Tajoe’s Sports Bar Pouderoyen W.B.D. Apply in person. Tel: 264-0041/ 661-8752 1 Experienced & professional pastry marker @ Humphrey’s Bakery & Farm, 38 Ketley & Sussex Street. Call: 225-7864 Sales persons needed, 2 yrs experienced, good command of English + Maths. Call: 6001331; 621-3072 5-6yrs Experienced domestic maid to work @ Diamond. Call: 626-8003/ 227-8529 Security guards to work with a mining firm in the Interior must have military background. Call: 226-9768
Smart choice Auto: 08&06 Premio, 08&06 Allion, 212, Runx, IST, Fielder. Call: 6523820; 665-4529 Unregistered bluebird 2007 model: TV, reverse camera, dark interior, burgundy -$2.3M negotiable. Call: 655-3400 Honda CRV (RD5), PNN stick gear -$1.9M negotiable, 2006 Hyundai Tucson, left hand drive, PMM -$4M. Call: 691-1198 One Toyota Raum PPP series, in good condition-$900,000Call: 652-6293 1 Nissan Murano, PRR series, excellent condition. Call: 6280016; 667-2536 One Jaguar XJ6 Sedan Motor Car. Good condition, most systems working, original parts, price to sell. Call: 2278448; 612-8319 AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BRR, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 Seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call: 680-3154 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 Seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 1 Toyota RZ, year 2011, price$1.6M, 2 Recon Winch 17500lb. Owner migrating. Call: 649-8214; 679-1415; 2332583; 674-8589 2- Unregistered new model Tacoma, bed covering, crash bar, step, alarm, mag rim. Call: 695-6461 or 639-7758
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. One 20 tons dump, one truck tray, one blocks machine, one ZF gearbox. Call: 6179230/269-1406 9 Stalls 64 to 72 (47feet long x 7 feet wide) @ La Penitence Market Albouystown. Call: 663-1597; 218-4837 3 – Cat 398 Generator, Kato synchronous 1142 KVA, 800W 4 wire voltage 346/600, monitoring panel. Call: 661-6161 PS3 with games, XBOX 1 with games. Call or whatsapp: 683-8386 New Premio 2,995,000, BMW $ 2,795,000, Audi A4-$ 3,795,000. Contact : 650-0402 1- 225 Yamaha Outboard Engine; Salt Walter series 6,000 running hour, reasonable price. Call: 662-6151 1-80CC Yamaha (Chappy) $200,000 negotiable. 1-5L RZ minibus -$1.2M negotiable. Call: 642-7555; 220-6385 Household Items: everything must go- Fridge, walldivider, wares, dinette set, curtains, plus more items. Call: 688-5446 Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, phone games & applications. Delivery also – Call: 6722566; 265-3231 24ftX8ft & 250HP Yamaha Engine with turn system. Parika to Supernaam, excellent condition- $5.2M. Call: 683-8989
Room to rent (only students), with all amenities & WiFI, Call: 223-6828 only at 7Pm.
German Shepherd Puppies. Call: 682-5664 TO LET
Experienced waitresses needed @ Millenium Mannor Hotel, bring in application to 43 Hadfield Street, near Camp St. Labourers wanted -$2,000 per day. Call: 225-2618 if interested.
VEHICLE FOR SALE
VACANCY 1 Cook to work in Kitchen in Trinidad, able to cook Indian & English dishes. Call Selwyn Persaud: 001-868-680-2083 One driver, must be 30yrs & older, will require to assist in running around. Call: 2272322; 601-2622
ACCOMMODATION Planning to visit Guyana for 50th Independence Anniversary & need comfortable accommodation Call Star International Property Management: 6632044; 225-1695
4 Bedrooms House @ Bel-Air Gardens with modern conveniences- $3,200USD monthly .Call during working hours: 231-7839; 227-2322. No agents 3 Bedrooms house @ Bel-Air Park with modern conveniences -$2500 USD monthly- furnished. Call during working hours: 2317839; 227-2322. No agents
Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc. Call: 225-9032;647-2943;604-5198 One mobile air conditioner unit 110V 10,000 Btus, price to sell. Call: 227-8448; 612-8319 1- Hino Canter Truck in excellent condition, 20ft, well built, household appliances, sofa, TV, stove, harmonium & Dholak. Call: 216-1285; 617-9982
4 Bedrooms house @ Bel-Air Park with modern convenience -$2500USD monthly furnished. Call during working hours: 2317839; 227-2322, No agents. One fully furnished two bedrooms house @ Bougainvillea, Farm; gated community with security guard. Call: 226-1234; 6781234 Eccles single studio apartment includes: A/C, Cable, internet -optional, 3rd floor. (Breezy). Call: 233-3974
TO LET One bedroom apartment, Well Street, Ogle, ECD. Rental: $25,000 per month. Call: 625-1514 Apartments in Eccles, rooms in Albertown. Call: 225-3234 (Continued on page 23)
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 23
The essential challenge facing local governance DEAR EDITOR; Now that new local government councils are in place, the pivotal challenge representatives and their constituents will face involves the nature and quality of the representation itself. How will or should these representatives represent? How responsive will the councils be to the voices of their constituents? And how will councilors choose to listen to these voices from issue to issue? Guyana’s political system and culture have molded our representatives (whether in parliament or councils) into trustees. Trustees use their personal judgment to act on behalf of those they represent. Democratic theory accepts this form of representation as legitimate even should the parliamentarian or councilor neglect to first ascertain the opinions or interests of his constituents. Representatives-as-delegates, in contrast, reflect the expressed preferences of the represented. Delegates act largely as emissaries, a role that requires them to confer
with the constituency. Recent complaints from residents in several parts of Georgetown over the unilateral actions by their council clearly signal that the public demands a role in decisionmaking. People therefore want councilors to behave more as delegates. If this analysis is correct, then two challenges, at least, emerge. First, councilors-as-delegates (particularly those representing constituencies— which number as many as nine in most NDCs) will face conflicts inherent in standing for one piece of the whole and, simultaneously, for the whole itself. Secondly, each constituency will encounter situations where its delegate, from time to time, votes independently of its expressed wishes. I live in Region 4, which has seven regional MPs and thirty-five RDC members, all of whom form a system that must, quoting the constitution, “involve as many people as possible in the task of managing and developing the communities in which they
live”. But I (and the vast majority of fellow citizens, I suspect) have low expectations that this constitutional ideal will be realised. Logistics, resources and political outlook conspire to make these actors distant or unknown trustees. Municipalities and neighborhoods, in contrast, are better positioned to give more meaning to representation. Being smaller geographic and social units, their councilors can act more as delegates. They have easier options (acting collectively or individually) to determine the wishes of constituents by, for example, holding community meetings and hearings, doing walk-abouts, constructing and using email listings, and conducting surveys. The local government legislation even makes provisions for non-elected residents to participate as nonvoting committee members. Stated differently, smallness allows councils to lean towards direct democracy (channeling the voices of the people straight into the decision-making process) as opposed to towards representative democracy (with the emphasis on the involvement of
substitutes). The in-the-face nature of council activities, if nothing else, should force this approach on municipalities and NDCs. My experience two weekends ago illustrates this reality. The noise of an excavator working on the engineering reserve that borders my residence in the BV/Triumph NDC prompted my instant investigation, which discovered that the then outgoing council (or at least its chairman) had secret and prohibited plans for the reserve. Luckily, several newly elected councilors intervened to put a halt to proceedings, thereafter promising to adopt a consultative and law-abiding approach in community affairs. Which brings up the accountability question of how do residents ensure councils are responsive and responsible, and their serious failings corrected or punished between elections? Circumventing an extended discussion here, I will only state that this responsibility will fall on the residents themselves, the Local Government Commission, the Ministry of Communities, and, informally, the high command of the political parties. Sherwood Lowe
Harmon may not have acted in bad faith DEAR EDITOR; I have seen Nigel Hinds’ letter concerning Harmon. I daresay that everything he wrote, and more so, have crossed my mind since this thing started, and I have been trying to figure out what is going on. It just couldn’t be that appointing Tiwari as a business advisor, or telling GRA to hold its hand on the seizure of Bai Shan Lin assets could cause so much attack on the man, for as far as I am concerned, his actions should be commended in light of what is currently happening to the business community and the economy of the country. Many business people I know feel the same way too. Truth be told, I am of the view that Harmon has realized what it really takes to run country, and that witch hunts, vendettas, and exclusion cannot be tenable policy positions, but instead, are sure recipes for Government failure. Ironically however, it seems that he has now become victim of this recriminatory nastiness he is attempting to steer his Government
away from. He has made mention, or implied something of a political conspiracy against him. If there is such, my interest is not only for what reason, but by whom. Specifically with regards to the Tiwari case, I ask a few more, as I think aloud: Was Tiwari being paid? What harm did his appointment cause? Did he make a ‘political investment’ to the APNU/AFC campaign? How many votes has the Coalition lost (or gained) as a result? How many and who are the people he employs? Was Harmon able to get him to do works for free for Government or for any community? Was such precipitate action by the President necessary? And in relation to the GRA: Now that the assets have been seized, what is the likely progression of the matter? Is BaiShanlin in genuine
financial distress? What is the current situation in the country as it relates to the Private Sector and business activity in general? From the duties and taxes now being collected from current business activity, does something seem wrong? If fuel prices were to rise as the usually do without warning what will be the effect on Government business? And do we really believe that GRA can operate without any political directions? Or does anyone at GRA owe his or her employment to political consideration/directions? Editor, before I write to you again, it is my hope that some answers will come, directly or indirectly as we probe this conspiracy thing. Obviously Harmon knows a lot more than us, but I think he should resist the temptation to speak now, and
wait for the dots to connect and the unraveling. In any event, judging from previous times, I don’t think he will do a good job at it. And I make no apologies for saying so. I will close now with a bit of advice for him. The everyday task of running the country must continue; that responsibility is his more than anyone else’s. Get on with it. Businesses are hurting. People are hurting. The teachers and other Public Servants are waiting to be paid. The ordinary people, the constituents, believe they are now worse off. Let them be your focus even Do not be deterred. Accommodation and inclusiveness are necessary for the sake of all and country, and there is nothing wrong in talking to Luncheon. He was a master at the game. Just don’t appoint him yet. William Tell
From page 22
EDUCATIONAL
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Private customs brokerage training certificate course, starting April 12, 2016. Call: 694-8322; 223-1506
Flat house in Grove, (corner property) 1 Block from main road, price negotiable. Call: 1905-626-2572
Earn a Diploma in Computers, 9 Courses @ Cybertron Technology, Vreed-EnHoop. Call: 264-3057
Transported property @ Grove $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
Computerized Accounting: 4 Courses Excel 2016, Qickbooks, Peachtree, POS, Cybertron Technology VreedEn-Hoop. Call: 264-3057
Business spot at Diamond Public Road. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536 Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities –Call: 662-9335; 612-3244 2 Storey 45x35 concrete property, lower flat incomplete. Land 65x120 @ Diamond N/S 5th Avenue, E.B.D- Call: 664-5052
LAND FOR SALE Land in Diamond area. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536 Eccles -$6M, Herstelling New Scheme, Corner lot (100ftx50ft) $3M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.4M. Call: 6036224; 611-7223 25 Acres prime transported land @ Mahaicony E.C.D can be used for resort, housing scheme or commercial business. Call: 221-2075 100X100 Residential H/lot @ Kuru Kururu Highway, first hill from Soesdyke Junction – 5 mins walk in. Call:680-6336 50 Acres of Land, Elizabeth Ann Right, Demerara River. Call: 672-3886; 680-5266
House 38X20; land 100X200 all fenced @ 635 Kuru Kururu-$5.5M. Call: 6941090; 661-6073 One 2 flat concrete 6 bedrooms house in Strathspey, E.C.D, big land space -$14M- Call: 689-5103 Property between James & Hogg Streets, Albouyston. Call: 689-3697 or 656-6380 Brand-new house @ Republic Gardens: 3 bedrooms self-contained, selling as is -$22M negotiable, owner migrating, quick sale. Call: 639-8182; 233-5117 Transported property for sale in Regent Street between Wellington & Camp Street. Call: 625-1514 One roadside, 2 storey building @ V/Hoop, ground excellent for restaurant or other business - Call: 6540779
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj Building- Tel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 Cybertron BeReady Driving School: $20,000 2 weeks @ Vreed-En-Hoop. Call: 264-3057
Property @ Cummings Street; 4 storey building, club, 8 self contain rooms. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536 Haslington, E.C.D: Building ‘A’, concrete/timber modern 2 storeys, 7 bedrooms, grilled & fenced. Building ‘B’, 3 apartments, fenced $18M negotiable. Call: 2553437; 694-4473
Page 24
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 25
Diabetic foot care touted as important factor in Belgians seize key suspects tackling diabetes
Nurse Tracy Emanuel makes a presentation on Thursday. While it may seem a rather insignificant measure, keeping your toenails at an ideal length could be very important, especially to a person diagnosed with diabetes. This notion was on Thursday amplified by Nurse Tracy Emanuel when she delivered an informative presentation on ‘Foot Care’ to students in Region Three. The event was a mini fair organised by the Region Three Health and Wellness Club in observance of World Health Day. According to Nurse Emanuel, who has been practising nursing for the past 10 years, with the past four seeing her integrally involved in Foot Care at the West Demerara Regional Hospital, it is important for diabetics to ensure that their toenails are not too short or too long. “It should be just above the tip of the toe...When you go to cut your toenails trim them straight across and avoid going into the corners to prevent injuries,” she warned the students and all those who gave an ear. Cutting toe nails too close to the corners could in fact result in ingrown toenails, she said. “When a person cuts his or her toenails too low and into the corners, when it starts to re-grow it can grow downwards instead of outwards and it can become infected. This can predispose diabetic persons to ulcers (sores),” according Nurse Emanuel. As part of foot care efforts she noted that persons should avoid using sharp
objects to clean the sides of their toenails since this too could potentially cause injuries. Nurse Emanuel explained that the most important thing when a person has diabetes is to prevent injuries. As such she noted that it is also imperative to pay close attention to the areas surrounding the toes too. This is in light of the fact, she added, that “foot problems are the leading issues that diabetics experience.” And foot problems could occur, according to Nurse Emanuel, when persons attempt to keep their feet clean by soaking them in warm water. This measure is not an advisable one, she warned, since persons with diabetes could experience numbness in their feet at times. “One reason is because when you soak the feet, if you are not feeling, you would not know what is hot or what could cause injury to yourself and you can get burned. “Also when you soak the feet you get rid of natural oils that the body makes and in turn that can make the feet dry. When the skin is too dry you can experience cracking and that too can cause ulcers to develop. “That is something we are trying to prevent,” related Nurse Emanuel. She therefore urged that persons opt to use water that is at room temperature to clean their feet and seek to take care in the cleaning process. “Do not rub, just gently wipe as the friction caused by
rubbing could cause tearing and bruising and even develop into something worse,” the Nurse added. She also advised that after the cleaning of feet, persons should seek to apply mild scented cream or lotion to ensure that their feet remain moist. Among the most important factors in foot care too, Nurse Emanuel said that footwear must always be appropriately comfortable. Footwear, according to her, should be enclosed and not be too tight or slack fitting. In purchasing appropriate footwear, she noted that materials should also be taken into consideration and it should not have too hard or too soft soles. Added to this, she related that pointed footwear should always be a “no, no” for persons with diabetes. When purchasing a pair of shoes, diabetic persons should seek to do so during the afternoon hours as according to her, “a diabetic’s feet tend to get puffy later in the day and that is the appropriate time to buy a pair of shoes at which time the shoes purchased will be able to accommodate the puffiness.” World Health Day is celebrated on April 7, annually. This year it was observed under the theme “Beat diabetes”. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the number of people living with diabetes has nearly quadrupled since 1980, to 422 million adults, with most living in developing countries. WHO said that it is calling for action on diabetes. In its first “Global report on diabetes”, WHO highlights the need to step up prevention and treatment of the disease. According to Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, the Government of Guyana through his Ministry has recognised the high prevalence of diabetes cases over the years and as such, “our interventions will seek to halt the rise in diabetes in both children and adults countrywide.”
Leaders of Panama, France speak post-leak, table finance minister meet (Reuters) - Panama said on Friday President Juan Carlos Varela had spoken with his French counterpart Francois Hollande following a diplomatic standoff over a mass data leak, and had agreed their finance ministers should meet to discuss cooperation.
Panama’s government said in a statement the pair had proposed the meeting take place in Paris. Panama warned earlier this week it could retaliate after France announced it would put the Central American nation back on its blacklist of uncoopera-
tive tax jurisdictions, following a major leak of documents from a Panamanian law firm. Earlier on Friday Hollande urged Varela to help French tax authorities with their enquiries following the Panama Papers leaks, his press office said.
in Paris, Brussels attacks
Mohamed Abrini Police officers detain a suspect during a raid in which fugitive Mohamed Abrini was arrested in Anderlecht, near Brussels, Belgium, yesterday in this still image taken from video. (Reuters photo) (Reuters) - Belgian police detained two key suspects yesterday in the Islamic State attacks on Paris and Brussels as operations go on to track down militants who have fought with or take direction from leaders in Syria. Mohamed Abrini, a Belgian thought to have helped prepare the Nov. 13 bombing and shooting attack that killed 130 people in the French capital, was held with two others, prosecutors said. They were trying to confirm that he was also the “man in the hat” seen with the Brussels airport suicide bombers on March 22. Aged 31, Abrini was seized close to the Brussels borough of Molenbeek, where he was long known to police for petty crimes. Earlier, police seized a man prosecutors named only as Osama K., and who local media said was a Swede named Osama Krayem. The prosecutors said Krayem, detained with another man, was checked by German police in October using a fake Syrian passport in a car rented by Salah Abdeslam, prime surviving suspect in the Paris attacks, who was detained in Brussels three weeks ago. Krayem is suspected of being the man seen on CCTV with a suicide bomber before he struck the Brussels metro on March 22 and of buying the holdalls used by the attackers that day. The arrests mark a signal success for Belgian security services, which have faced fierce criticism at home and abroad since Brussels-based militants organized the attacks in Paris and, four months later, those in the Belgian capital that killed 32
people, four days after the arrest of Salah Abdeslam. Interior Minister Jan Jambon, who offered to resign over the failure to arrest one of the Brussels suicide bombers last year, tweeted congratulations to those involved in the arrests, as did the Belgian head of state, King Philippe. But there was no change in the national security alert level and Jambon added: “The struggle against terrorism goes on.” Police searched premises in western Brussels late on Friday. Belgium has struggled to contain a threat from hundreds of young men, many with chequered criminal histories and from the country’s substantial Moroccan immigrant community, who have traveled to Syria. For the size of its 11 million population, Belgium has the biggest contingent of Islamist foreign fighters. “MAN IN THE HAT” The arrests came a day after police issued new images of “the man in the hat” seen on airport cameras walking through the terminal with Brahim El Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui. These two would detonate the heavy bags they were pushing on trolleys but the third abandoned his bomb and was tracked walking for miles on CCTV back from the airport into the city, all the while his face hidden by glasses and a floppy hat. Police have also been hunting a man seen with El Bakraoui’s younger brother Khalid at a Brussels metro stop shortly before the latter blew himself up on a train at
Maelbeek station. Prosecutors did not confirm media reports that Krayem, using a Syrian passport in the name of Naim Al Ahmed, had arrived back in Europe from Syria last September on a refugee boat that landed on the Greek island of Lero s , o f f t h e T u r k i s h coast. He came, reports said, with another man carrying fake Syrian papers who was arrested with Abdeslam in Molenbeek on March 18. Abrini, who local media said may have spent time in Syria last summer, has been on Europe’s most wanted list since December. That was when he was identified from security camera footage at a motorway service station driving with Abdeslam toward Paris from Belgium two days before the Nov. 13 attacks. The car they were in was later used in the attacks, in which Abdeslam’s elder brother was a suicide bomber. Prosecutors also said Abrini and Abdeslam rented an apartment that was used by several of the militants before they struck in Paris. Abrini, nicknamed “Brioche” for his work in a bakery, was a regular at a Molenbeek bar run by the Abdeslam brothers and which police shut down last September after complaints of drug deals. Abrini’s fingerprints and DNA were found in two Brussels apartments, including the one from where three men, including the two bombers, took a taxi to the airport on March 22. It was later found to have been used as a bombmaking factory.
Page 26
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
Brazil’s AG says Silva should be barred from Cabinet SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazil’s attorney general has recommended that the Supreme Court block former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva from becoming chief of staff to President Dilma Rousseff, saying it would disrupt investigations into the corruption-kickback scheme at state-owned oil company Petrobras. Rodrigo Janot’s recommendation on Thursday reversed an earlier opinion he expressed a few weeks ago when he said that Silva’s appointment was legitimate. He said he changed his mind after another examination of the case. Rousseff appointed Silva to her Cabinet in March in a move widely seen as an attempt to help shield him from potential detention as part of the Petrobras probe. As a Cabinet minister, Silva can only be prosecuted with the approval of the Supreme Court. Supreme Court Justice Gilmar Mendes temporarily blocked his appointment, saying it was aimed at helping Silva get around his legal woes. The full court is to rule on April 20 whether to uphold
Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva Mendes’ injunction. Janot said there was a “deviation of purpose” in Silva’s appointment which would “disrupt the progress of the criminal investigation.” Prosecutors are investigating if renovations made at a luxury beachfront apartment in Sao Paulo state and another project at a country house used by Silva and his family constituted favours in exchange for political benefit. Both residences have undergone major renovations paid for by construction companies that for decades have
had contracts with the federal government. Those enterprises are also at the center of the scandal gripping Petrobras, in which prosecutors allege $2 billion was paid in bribes to obtain contracts. Janot made his recommendations to the Supreme Court just days before the lower house of congress is to vote on whether to impeach Rousseff on charges of manipulating budget accounts to allow her administration to boost spending to shore up votes before her 2014 re-election campaign.
Union wants Antigua govt. to rescind decision to establish embassy in Iraq ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – The Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union (ABWU) is questioning the government’s decision to establish an embassy in Iraq. Last month the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) called on the Gaston Browne administration to rethink its decision to allow Iraqi nationals to participate in the country’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) and also questioned the decision to open an embassy in Iraq. “There can be no benefit to the people of Antigua and Barbuda. We have no cultural and we have no trade ties with Iraq. “What is the benefit to opening an embassy in Bagdad? Iraq as we know is in the midst of a civil war with ISIS and ISIS is in control of large sections of Iraq. We are unnecessarily exposing our country and our people to unnecessary risk,” UPP leader Harold Lovell said. In a letter to Prime Minister Browne, the ABWU raised objection to the decision to establish ties with Iraq, stating it was concerned
Harold Lovell about the negative impact an embassy could have on the twin island state. “What are the benefits to be derived from having an Embassy in Iraq and how can it (government) justify to citizens that this linkage could not prove disastrous to us in the future,” the union said, and calling on the government to abandon the idea “immediately”. Last month, the government issued a statement indicating that the island’s product offering stands to benefit significantly as a result of a newly formed alliance between St John’s and Ambassador Ahmed Abbas Alewi. It said that the diplomat,
who was recently appointed as Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to Iraq met with Tourism, Economic Development, Investment and Energy Minister Asot Michael and “brought good news of his intended investments in Antigua, chief among which is the proposed project for the development of approximately 93 acres of land at Pensioner’s Beach”. The statement said “there will be a total investment of some US$1.5 billion over the next several years” and that talks have also started on a twice weekly flight from Baghdad to Antigua.
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 27
Page 28
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 29
The Windies won Why The Economist failed to predict a stunning victory (The Economist) WRITING about West Indian cricket last year, The Economist tried to explain “why a dazzling team has faded”. On April 3rd in Kolkata, the West Indian men’s and women’s teams both dazzled by winning the Twenty20 (T20) championships. We feel nearly as sheepish as the bookmakers who put the odds of that happening at 150 to one. Caribbean players excel at T20 cricket, a three-hour version of the game in which each side bowls 20 overs (six ball-tosses towards the batsman). When they come together every few years for international T20 tournaments they do well; the men won a world championship in 2012. Where they fall short is in oneday international (ODI) and five-day Test matches. In fact, those failures are one reason for the West Indies’ T20 success.
Unlike richer, better-managed rivals, the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) does not have the money to lure the best cricketers away from high-paying T20 leagues to play international games. Caribbean men have thus become T20 specialists. Five of the men’s team that beat England in the final in Kolkata now only play T20 cricket; none of the English players does. The West Indians overpowered them with skills honed in T20 leagues: big hitting (Carlos Brathwaite stunned England by hitting four consecutive sixes in the final over) and bowling techniques crafted to avoid such disasters. Luck helped: Darren Sammy, the men’s captain, won all six coin tosses, allowing his side to bat second, so it knew just how many runs it would need to win. Despite the West Indians’ T20 success, the men rank
eighth among Test cricketing nations and failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy, a tournament for the top ODI nations, to be held next year. Even as they celebrated, the victors grumbled. Mr Sammy said his teammates felt “disrespected” by the WICB, with which they have been feuding over pay and selection criteria. Stafanie Taylor, the women’s captain, pleaded for “some infrastructure”, without which the team would “deteriorate”. After their triumph, the West Indies men will return to nomadic T20 careers, flitting from league to league throughout the year. The champions may never play together again, Mr Sammy said. The WICB’s president, Dave Cameron, promises to find ways to allow the men to play international matches in all three forms of cricket. The International Cricket Council
Saturday April 09, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You can gain approval, get kudos, and ask for help if you put a little heart into your speech or request. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You should follow through on educational endeavors you have wanted to pursue for some time. You may find it difficult to discuss personal matters with family members. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Money may slip through your fingers. Your partner may be erratic today if you haven't paid enough attention to him or her. Business or pleasure trips will be knowledgeable as well as highly successful. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Avoid any intimate involvement's with coworkers or employers. You may find yourself interested in more than one person. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Your creative ideas will be put to good use if you dig in and do things around the house that will make your family happy. you take short trips. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your mate could get on your nerves if he or she backs you into an emotional comer or puts restrictions on your time.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Look into projects that you feel would contribute something to your appearance. You may have to explain your actions to your family. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Try to spend more time with children and relatives. Don't overextend yourself in the process. Someone close to you may need help. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You need some excitement in your life, and meeting new people in exotic destinations will certainly satisfy your desires. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Sudden changes regarding colleagues may surprise you. You can expect sorrow to evolve from the information you discover. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Things may not be as they sound. You can easily wrap up overdue personal legal matters that have caused problems for you. You may not be that popular at home but you should be able to shine at social gatherings. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You are best to concentrate on work. Romantic relationships should stabilize. You can have an enjoyable time if you socialize with friends.
West Indies were outrageous with their celebrations after finishing an outrageous match, England v West Indies, World T20, final, Kolkata, April 3, 2016 ©Getty Images is trying to reduce scheduling clashes between club and international games. Its chairman, Shashank Manohar,
wants to reverse a decision in 2014 that awarded more revenue to Australia, England and India at the expense of
smaller teams, like the West Indies. If that happens, the Windies may yet dazzle again. (Yahoo Sport)
Rockets’ playoff hopes dim... (From page 31) game away,” Harden said. “We’ve still got an opportunity, we’ve just got to win out and have some other teams lose.” Tucker tallied 24 points and 12 rebounds, and Teletovic added 26 points off the bench. Tyson Chandler scored 21 points and grabbed 10 boards, and it was his dunk with 25 seconds left that capped the decisive run. The Suns bludgeoned Houston on the boards, turning 20 offensive rebounds into 36 second-chance points and a plus-20 edge in shot attempts. Even with nothing to play for beyond professional pride, the Suns outworked the Rockets, rallying twice from double-digit deficits. “It’s the hardest thing in the world,” Tucker said of staging a comeback without incentive. “That’s why you’re a pro. Me, Ronnie (Price) and Tyson try to teach these guys if you get down, the NBA is a long game. It’s a game of runs. You’ve got to keep playing, keep fighting, keep chipping away.” Harden missed just four of 14 shots and paced Houston with 30 points. He also dished out seven assists. Trevor Ariza chipped in 22 points on 8-of-11 shooting. The Rockets lost for the seventh time in 10 games. Teletovic scored 11 points in the second quarter to key the rally from a 41-29 deficit. He followed a 23-foot jumper with a layup to pull Phoenix to within 45-41 before later hitting a 3-pointer that shaved the margin to 48-47. With 17 first-half points, Teletovic almost single handedly kept the Suns in contention. When Houston scored the opening 10 points of the third quarter, Tucker caught fire and picked up
where Teletovic left off. Harden capped a Houston run with a 3-pointer, but 25 seconds later, Tucker completed a three-point play to initiate the comeback. Tucker added a reverse layup out of the post, a 7-foot jumper, and a 3-pointer before his reverse layup cut the deficit to 77-69. Teletovic, who re-entered the game as a substitute for Chandler with 6:21 left in the
third, followed with a 3pointer and a difficult bank shot from the post. When Archie Goodwin (16 points off the bench) completed a three-point play, the Suns led 82-81. Despite shooting a season-high 56.8 percent, the Rockets faltered once Phoenix applied late pressure. This collapse resembled so many others.
Page 30
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
Boyce/Jefford launches Relay Festival and Family Fun Day -Event promises fun, competition in one package
The Boyce and Jefford Organisation yesterday launched the inaugural Boyce
and Jefford Relay Festival and Family Fun Day at 704 Lounge. The event, which promised lots of fun and prizes, is scheduled for April 24, at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary. “Let me indicate that despite being a first for Boyce/ Jefford, it is actually a twoyear old concept for us,” Chairman of the Boyce and Jefford Committee Colin Boyce told the media. “A lot of fun, competition and rivalry are expected on the day,” Boyce said. According to Boyce, 10 relay events, 5-a-side Football, Softball Cricket and Dominoes will be the feature events of the day, along with a grudge 100m race that features Colin ‘Poison’ Boston of Big Boss Trucking Service against Cadogan of Dynasty. Boyce said that each participant in the race is lodging $500,000 for a $1,000,000 winner-take-all purse to settle an age-old score. In addition, he informed that each relay race carries a total purse of $40,000 with $20,000 for the winner; $12,000 for second and $8,000 for third place. Football, Cricket and Domino Competitions will also carry cash prizes. “On that day, quite a lot of cash will be on offer. We want to make this event as big as possibly. There was a clarion call for us to do something in Georgetown given the success we have had in Linden with the Boyce/ Jefford Classic,” Boyce said. Technical Director, Mark Scott noted that all the top clubs and athletes in Guyana will be in the Relay Festival, indicating that the events are (male and females): 4x100, 4x200m 4x400, Sprint Medley Females (100m, 100m, 200m, 400m), Sprint Medley Males (100m, 200m, 400m, 800m) Distance Medley Females (400m, 600m, 600m, 800m), Distance Medley Males (400m, 600m, 600m, 1200m). In addition, Scott revealed that eight top “small goal” Football teams will be compet-
ing for the top honor including Sparta Boss, Agricola, Police, Rich Boys, Wartsila, Barber Shop, Brazilians and Customs. The winner pockets $50,000 and runner-up $25,000. He informed that day’s activities features a Media Race while children events, including bouncy castles and trampolines will be on the programme. Floodlight Masters will take on Boyce/Jefford Stars in a male Softball Match, while Trophy Stall Angels battle Mike’s Well Woman in a grudge Softball Cricket game. Scott said that there is an event for everybody, pleading for support from the public. Representative of the National Sports Commission, Seon Erskine, on behalf of Director of Sport, Christopher Jones said that the NSC is proud to be associated with events that promote fitness & wellness of the nation. “Mr. Jefford and Mr. Boyce have been doing a great bit of work. We want to encourage them to take their programmes to other regions and to keep up the good work,” Erskine said, adding that the Commission is pleased to be associated with the event. Banks DIH Non-Alcoholic Manager, Clayton McKenzie, under the Malta Supreme Brand, also echoed similar sentiments, stating that the conglomerate is please to be associated with the event that promises to be all inclusive with lots of sporting excitement. McKenzie said that the planned event is indicative of the motto of Malta Supreme that is to ‘Be Smart, Be Strong, Be Supreme’. When asked, Boyce said that the entrance fee is $500 for Adults and $200 for children. Other sponsors include, Insurance Brokers Guyana Limited, Antarctic Maintenance and Repairs, Star Party Rentals and Jefford Distribution and Sales.
Wolf’s Softball Challenge Cup starts Sunday Action in the Wolf Warriors Softball Challenge Cup cricket tournament continues tomorrow. The Male matches are 20/20, while the Females play 10/10 encounters. Fixtures for tomorrow Sunday April 10th 2016; Carifesta Sports Complex: Pitch 1: 9:30am-Floodlights Masters vs Albion Masters. 12:30pm- Tropical Springs vs Albion Masters. Pitch 2: 9:30am- Princess
Hotel vs Untouchables. 12:30am- 4R Lioness vs Trophy Stall Angels. 2:30pmBlue Divas vs Enterprise Divas. Pitch 3: 9:30am- Wellman vs Savage Masters. 12:30pmSpeedboat vs Wolf Warriors. Contact can be made with: Wayne Jones: 650-1790 & 685-6908 for Demerara and Berbice; Khalid Baksh: 6181905 for Essequibo, for any details regarding the tournament.
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 31
Windies U-19s, Girls honoured by GOG yesterday Team sponsors Digicel provides ‘fantastic five’ with gifts Yesterday at the 704 Sports Bar and Lounge in the City the five Guyanese West Indies players who participated in the U-19 and Women’s World Cup cricket tournaments where honored by the Government of Guyana (GOG) and the West Indies team’s sponsor Digicel. According to Director of Sports Christopher Jones it was decided at National Sports Commission (NSC) statutory meeting on February 25 to host a luncheon for the three U-19 Cricketers on April 6. Jones explained that due to logistical constraints this event was postponed to today, and because of that the NSC took the opportunity to include the two Guyanese female cricketers who were members of the Regional side. Shimron Hetmyer, Captain of Championship winning West Under-19 side that beat India in the U-19 50-over World Cup final in Bangladesh on February 14 and his Guyanese team mates Vice Captain Kemo Paul and Wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach
were at 704 yesterday. Berbicians Tremayne Smartt and Shemaine Campbell, members of West Indies Women’s T20 World Cup team which defeated three-times defending Champions Australia in India, were also there. The ‘fantastic five’, proudly decked out in their Digicel West Indies shirts, were recognized for being involved in history as West Indies won three ICC World Cups in the same year, an unprecedented achievement in World Cricket. The West Indies also won the Men’s T20 World Cup by beating England on the same day that their girls lifted the female title, but they were no Guyanese players in the Men’s team. While both females are from Berbice there was one U19 player each from Berbice (Hetmyer), Essequibo (Paul) and Demerara (Imlach). Hetmyer joins fellow Guyanese Clive Lloyd (1975 & 79 World Cups) as the only players from the West Indies to win ICC 50-over titles.
Present yesterday were the Director of Sports, Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes, Chairman of the NSC Ivan Persaud, Sports Minister Nicolette Henry and Digicel’s Head of Marketing Jacqueline James and President of the GCB Dru Bahadur. The GCB head promised that his board will honour the Leon Johnson led Guyana Jaguars back-to-back Regional First Class crowns for the first time since sponsored First-Class cricket began in 1966. The Ceremony will be held Monday evening. “We thank you for making each and every Guyanese proud, you are all ambassadors. The Ministry of Tourism is awarding the players a free trip each to the Kaieteur falls.” The very approachable Tourism Minister Hughes specially thanked the two lasses and noted that they are now role models for women. “I want to single out the women. Because of you the women of Guyana are proud,” Hughes said. Digicel, who had already
Samuels ready to play for Jamaica again Jamaica Observer - West Indies middle-order batsman Marlon Samuels says he is willing to return to the Jamaica senior team set-up now that a new national selection committee is to be appointed. The cricket star made the declaration a day after Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) President Wilford ‘Billy’ Heaven said Samuels is “ready to once again play for Jamaica”. Not hiding there is unfavourable feeling toward former chairman of the selection committee Wavell Hinds, and another one-time selector Wayne Lewis, the outspoken Samuels said he will make himself available once fit. “As long as I’m fit and available I will be ready to play,” he told the Jamaica Observer. “Wavell Hinds and Wayne Lewis are no longer selectors, so I’m ready to play for Jamaica,” the 35-year-old added. Hinds, the president of the West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA), and Lewis, the WIPA secretary, were part of the national selection panel appointed a little over two years ago. Samuels, and many of the senior West Indies cricketers,
Marlon Samuels (left) speaks to a Digicel promotional dancer. (Jamaica Observer) some of whom have voiced discontent with the players’ union and the West Indies Cricket Board, are not WIPA members. The stylish batsman last played for Jamaica in a regional game against Combined Campuses and Colleges at 3Ws Oval in Barbados in April 2014. When contacted, Hinds, a former West Indies teammate of Samuels, declined to comment. Lewis, a former national batsman, expressed surprise and said he and Samuels got along well in the past. “I’m very shocked to hear that, because I know Marlon last played in 2014 when
Wavell and I were selectors. I had an excellent relationship with him, and I realise that since I became [WIPA] secretary he hasn’t called me. But I wish him only the best, and maybe one day I will get the opportunity to talk to him to find out the reason for his comment,” Lewis said. All committees of the previous board were discontinued when the life of that administration ended at the annual general meeting and elections held on March 30, 2016. The new board is expected to name a selection committee, and the Observer has learnt that neither Hinds nor Lewis is likely to be reappointed.
made presentations to the trio of U19 players a month back, provided the five cricketers with phones among other items. “It was especially important to embrace the strides made by two females. We must celebrate our women because they are role models of the highest level and we believe that this is the start of something great,” Jacqueline
James, the Marketing Manager of Digicel said. The boys were previously rewards for their role in Bangladesh. Minster Henry told the gathering that the occasion was joyous and monumental. “I’m proud of the occasion because we have a lot to celebrate for our 50th anniversary under the theme” Reflection, Celebration and Inspiration”.
“This could not have happened at a better time, thanks for putting Guyana on the map in a positive way. Job well done!” the Minister concluded. Apart from the hampers compliments of Digicel, the five heroes collected other gifts which included plaques and Gold Jewellery. The girls were presented with bouquets.
Page 32
Kaieteur News
Mumbai Indians v Rising Pune Supergiants, IPL 2016, Mumbai April 8, 2016
Supergiants target a winning first impression ESPNcricinfo - There were 1, 676, 013 page views of an article on ESPNcricinfo titled “List of players sold and unsold in IPL 2016.” Even last year, with the World Cup in full swing and with no shortage of content on the site, it was this simple collection of player names and the IPL teams they would suit up for that got top billing. Based on sheer public interest - a vital measure - the Indian Premier League is a thing of incredulity. And the ninth season kicks off by pitting the defending champions Mumbai Indians against newcomers Rising Pune Supergiants. MS Dhoni has been put front and centre, and so has the best batting track in the country. Amid all the critique that the tournament endures, the organisers certainly do know how to sell it and the audience are quite happy to buy into it. The following in Rajasthan and Chennai might just have diminished, though. So how can that be countered? By feeding off a rivalry that has defined the IPL, of course. Mumbai are the only team that has a favourable win-loss record against the suspended Chennai Super Kings, whose key figures captain Dhoni, lead spinner R Ashwin and head coach Stephen Fleming - have broken away to form the core of the Supergiants. The world’s best will be in action again, a mere six days after a World T20 where new heroes emerged, low-scoring matches were still competitive and, despite the host nation being knocked out, the final was played at Eden Gardens in front of a near-capacity crowd. The finish - how did it go down again? Ah yes - with a flurry of sixes, a commenta-
Jos Buttler’s presence in the middle order may free up Rohit Sharma to open the innings © Getty Images tor screaming, and a team emerging from damn near unwinnable situations to become champions was very IPL. It’s immensely hard to imagine that being matched, but never say never with this tournament. In the spotlight... Mumbai made only seven purchases at the auction, and Jos Buttler was their most expensive buy. His price soared to INR 3.8 crore, despite his limited experience in India, purely because of his ability as a 360-degree player. Now he has had the experience of playing in these conditions for a world championship no less - and his presence in the middle order may just free up Rohit Sharma to play in his preferred opening slot. The English presence this IPL season is reasonably strong. And even at the age of 35 and with only franchise
cricket to sustain himself, Kevin Pietersen was among the best batsmen in the Big Bash League 2015-16. Only two men scored more than his 323 runs and none matched his four fifties in nine matches. Team news Lasith Malinga’s injury might mean Mitchell McClenaghan would be tasked with leading the Mumbai attack, especially considering Tim Southee has not played international cricket in over a month. The other choice Mumbai may need to make is between Kieron Pollard, who has just recovered from injury, and Corey Anderson, who has been out of form, in the XI. Harbhajan Singh will likely be their lead spinner, but which of J Suchith, Krunal Pandya (both left-arm spinners) and Kishore Kamath (the legspinner who was bought for INR 1.4 crores) will partner him? Supergiants might be relying on their overseas roster for batting strength and their Indian recruits to shore up the bowling. They appear rather light on spinners and might have to rope in rookie M Ashwin to partner his namesake. Pitch and conditions Wankhede Stadium has been a fortress for Rohit and his men and - for the moment, and after much trouble - they can exploit all the advantages it brings. The weather should be fair and the surface should be batting friendly.
Saturday April 09, 2016
The Golden Jaguars have a score to settle with Curacao A tribute to Camptown’s Colin Hinds By Statistician Charwayne Walker When Guyana’s Golden Jaguars tackle Curacao on June, the first at the Providence Stadium in the C.F.U Second Round Qualifiers, the Christopher Nurse led unit will have one thing only on their minds: revenge. Forty years ago, November 1976, Guyana and Curacao met for the first time in two friendly international at the then world famous GCC Bourda (the June 1st clash will be their third encounter.) Guyana led by Santos FC Maurice Enmore had to pull off all stops to draw the opener one all. Curacao went ahead in the 28th minute when Silvania beat Guyana’s custodian Desmond Marshall with a powerful strike. Guyana equalised 19 minutes from the full time. When debutant, 17 year old Colin Hinds, replaced Derek Anderson, he received a beauty of a pass from skipper Maurice Enmore. Hinds out ran two Curacao defenders and scored with a wellplaced shot. In the series decider played at the same venue, Curacao led by a hat-trick of goals from W. Martyn outplayed Guyana 4 goals to one. Martyn opened the scoring in the 9th minute, Silvanie
made it two nil in the 13th minute. Camptown’s star boy Colin Hinds’ header scored off a Keith Wiler Niles corner in the 35th minute, saw Guyana at the half time mark, down by two goals to one. On the resumption, Martyn made it three one with a strike in the 58th minute. Martyn completed his hattrick in the 87th minute when the final whistle sounded, the score sheet read: Curacao 4 Guyana 1. The late Deryck Whitehead carried the whistle in both games. So the million dollar question football diehard fans are asking is whether Christopher Nurse’s Golden Jaguars will avenge Maurice Enmore’s class of 1976 and who would emulate Camptown’s golden boy Colin Hinds who scored in both games against Curacao in 1976, only time will tell. The 1976 Guyana National Team that lost the series against Curacao: Maurice Enmore –Captain Earl O’Neal Clive Nedd –deceased Dereck Anderson –deceased Wendell Sandiford H. McGarrell Visbert DeFreitas Desmond Marshall David Woolford Neville Johnson
Bunny Anthony Mark Braithwaite Walter Prince Oral Samuels Robert Burkett Joey Alberts Colin Hinds Keith Niles Patrick Barton C. Vaughn O. Thompson W. Bailey Dennis Solomon George Greene –Coach The 1976 Curacao Team Martina W. Martyn E. Godfried D. Spacie S. Paz R. Clemencia R. SchothBorgh A. LLeonora R. Lucas D. Cooster V. Engelhart M. Goeloe M. Passial E. Rosal O. Inacio R. Ignastius R. McWilliams –manager S. Petenelle –Official A. J. Koeiman –Official TRIVIA Question: Camptown’s Colin Hinds’ two goals against Curacao was on debut and his second game. Who is the other Guyanese player to achieve that feat scoring on debut and his second game?
IAAF rejects former Kenya chief Mwangi’s ban appeal (Reuters) The IAAF’s Ethics Committee has rejected former Athletics Kenya (AK) chief executive Isaac Kamande Mwangi’s appeal against his provisional sixmonth ban for violating antidoping controls. The punishment was handed out by the International Association of Athletics Federations, the sport’s governing body, in February after Mwangi was accused of seeking bribes to reduce the doping bans of two athletes. His provisional suspension came after former AK president Isaiah Kiplagat, exdeputy David Okeyo and former treasurer Joseph Kinyua were banned by the Ethics Committee on charges of misusing funds from a sponsorship by U.S. sports manufacturer Nike. All the officials deny any wrong-doing. Joy Sakari and Francisca Koki Manunga said Mwangi asked each of them for $24,000 to reduce four-year bans.
The logo of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) is seen in Monaco, March 11, 2016. (REUTERS/ERIC GAILLARD) Sharad Rao, Kenya’s barrister appointed by the IAAF, said on Friday that he would complete his probe into the affair by mid-May. “I am aware of the IAAF Ethics Committee declining his appeal so I am formally taking over investigations,” Rao added. Mwangi told Reuters that he wanted any hearing to be held in public. “My legal team appealed against the six-month suspension because we thought it was too long and punitive
given that I was an employee and not an elected member of the board like the others,” said Mwangi. “Now that our appeal is not successful we are looking forward to a fair and open hearing. I maintain my innocence, hence we want the hearing conducted in public because I want to face our accusers.” Kenya is a global leader in endurance running on the track and in city marathons but more than 40 of their athletes have been banned for doping in the past three years.
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 33
Fury’s camp Police presents sponsorship for confirm Klitschko another cycle race, this Sunday re-match in July
Tyson Fury (right) beat Wladimir Klitschko on points in Germany last year. (Getty Images) (Reuters) British heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury will defend his titles against Wladimir Klitschko, the man he deposed, in Manchester on July 9, according to his camp. “9th July @Tyson_Fury vs Klitschko is coming to Manchester, UK. Official announcement coming 12 noon.” Fury’s uncle and trainer Peter posted on Twitter on Friday. Fury stunned Ukrainian Klitschko in Dusseldorf in November to win the WBA, WBO and IBF belts, although he has since relinquished the IBF title which fellow Briton Anthony Joshua and American Charles Martin fight for in London on Saturday. Klitschko had been world champion since 2006 when he was beaten on points by Fury, who is unbeaten in 25 professional fights - 18 of them won by knockout.
Assistant Superintendent Keith Williams presents the sponsorship cheque to Coordinator and Club Coach Randolph Roberts, while other police officers and club officials enjoy the moment. The Guyana Police Force has many roles to play and despite many challenges has been trying to fulfill their mandate in their quest to make Guyana a better place. Of recent the GPF in the various divisions has not been shirking from their responsibilities of being good co-operate citizen and has upped the ante in their social and community relationship and doing things differently. The police in the Berbice B Division have been in the
forefront of the force’s community outreachprogramme. Led by Commander, Assistant Commissioner Ian Amsterdam, Deputy Commander, Senior Superintendent Errol Watts, and divisional Officers of the three Police subdivisionsSuperintendent Linden Isles, Deputy Superintendent Guy Nurse and Assistant Superintendent Joshua Harvey John and Community Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent Keith
Williams, the division has been setting a tremendous pace for the others to follow. Following the successful staging of a cycle road race in collaboration with the Flying Ace Cycle club (FACC) on the Corentyne highway two Sundays ago, the two entities are at it again. This time they will be staging a 28 miles cycle road race tomorrow. The event, which is for cyclists of The FACC, is set to pedal off at 09:00 hrs from Ta c a m a Tu r n , N e w
Amsterdam. The riders will proceed along the New Amsterdam, Canje and Corentyne Highways to the Independence Arch at Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, before turning back to finish at the junction of Main and Alexander Street. A number of prizes are up for grabs including the first four finishers, first two U16s, the first three females. There are also eight sprint point prizes up for grabs. (Samuel Whyte)
Page 34
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 09, 2016
KIERON POLLARD EXCLUSIVE
Kieron Pollard: Enduring hardships and rising higher Cricbuzz – (Colin Benjamin) Kieron Pollard has slammed the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) over their treatment of the players, saying he and his World Cupwinning team mates are totally fed up with them, implored WICB officials to lower their egos and display greater sense of compromise towards players in their careers. Pollard, who is preparing for his return to high profile cricket in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Mumbai Indians, was the most notable absentee from the West Indies World T20 team, alongside Sunil Narine. He tore his Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) on the right knee during South Africa’s Ram Slam T20 on November 22nd last year, while playing for Cape Cobras. Speaking to Cricbuzz from the Mumbai Indians camp, the 28year-old middle-order batsman articulated his view on these two topics. “I was very proud of how the boys played during the World Cup. I knew they were on a mission”, said Pollard. “Despite all the well-advertised problems, the senior guys rose to the occasion and for this tournament, no doubt the IPL experience in the team made a big difference.” Pollard, who arrived in India on the day of the Final and was a guest with Star Sports in their Mumbai studio, echoed statements from Dwayne Bravo and Chris Gayle in support of Darren Sammy’s scathing post-match criticism of the WICB. “Every ball of the semi-final and final I watched and Sammy’s statement touched my heart. We players have had enough!” Pollard stated forcefully. “I believe I was victimized throughout 2015 and left out of the 50-over World Cup squad. That socalled task force the WICB set up said all three parties in players, WICB and WIPA shared equal blame for the India pull out - yet only myself and Bravo suffered. “I know what the response will be. We’ll all be told that the financial consequences have affected funding for cricket at all
Kieron Pollard hit out at WICB for their mistreatment of the players © Getty levels in the Caribbean and, whilst smiling on one level, in hushed tones behind your back it’s said that Bravo and Pollard must pay for it. That’s what’s happening. But nobody for WICB or WIPA lost their jobs. There is no shared responsibility or ‘blame’. We as players stand by our actions and our reasons, but we are still open to communication and compromise.” He further noted that the win, and commitment showed to achieve it, should prove to fans and media, that they have always been committed to West Indies cricket, instead of assertions that they just cared about playing for money. “We have been called all sorts of names, moneygrabbing cricketers and mercenaries. But our ambition to play for West Indies and help the team rise and brings smiles on the fans’ faces, as the guys showed in India, has always been there. “However if you are dealing with a board who shows you no respect, what do you expect us players to do when we get offers to play around the world? “Why can’t some of the board members lower their egos, if they can learn to compromise with us players we will too.
It’s that simple”. Speaking about his aforementioned injury which caused him to pull out of the World Cup squad, Pollard noted he was worried that it was career threatening. “I had a very similar injury on my left knee in 2013 and during the rehabilitation at times, I wasn’t sure when I was going to come back” Pollard disclosed. He continued: “The diagnosis was that recovery can be 6-9 months for many athletes. I had my surgery in December with Dr Freddie Fuu in Pittsburg, same as last time, and worked with the same physios as last time, so I was in
familiar territory in terms of recovery and knew my body heals fast. “I want the fans to understand I tried my best to rush back in time for the World Cup at the three month juncture (February) because I wanted to play. But although mentally I was ready, coming back so soon would have risked my recovery. The long term effects of being reckless and coming back too soon and re-rupturing the ligaments are way too significant. That really is career-threatening. So I listened to the sound medical advice around me.” West Indies winning the World Cup has brought forward suggestions that it could signal a death to Test cricket in minds of the players and Caribbean cricket fans. Pollard disputed that, whilst touching on his own Test ambitions. “Of course there are cricketers that want to play Test cricket. Yes the WICB have implemented the Professional Cricket league (PCL) - but for anyone who observes our domestic cricket would know if you perform in that, it doesn’t guarantee you will make it in Tests or international level. “What happens next, is the board going to implement more Ateam tours which is very
important? Or are we going to keep picking players from the PCL who aren’t ready and after throwing them into the deep - everybody comes down on them when they fail?” Pollard queried. “I took an indefinite break from first-class cricket in 2015 as my body told me to. But also now seeing the confusing selector’s criteria for picking players in that format and the events in India which changed the Memorandum of Understanding/Collecting Bargaining Agreement (MOU/CBA) pay structure contracts for Tests, do I regret that decision? No. “They (selectors) never selected me for Tests and I was labelled a one-day specialist without ever getting a chance to prove myself in the longer format. “But injuring both ACLs now that would further hinder my ability to play the longer format even more so I’m pretty sure that horse has bolted now. As a boy growing up, the ambition was always to play Test cricket for West Indies. But considering all these things that I mentioned and the cricketing landscape that has changed so drastically since I was a boy, after a while one realises maybe that dream won’t become a reality,” he said.
Turbo dominoes to commence April 13
GDA head Faye Joseph (center), Secretary Barbara Marshall and Orin Boston share a moment following a meeting with the Georgetown teams set to take part in the tournament. The Guyana Beverage Company, Turbo brand nationwide dominoes competition, which is being organised by the Georgetown Dominoes Association, is set to commence April 13.
Teams will battle for over $2M in prizes with the winning team taking home a trophy and $500,000. Speaking with Kaieteur Sport, Public Relations Officer of the GDA, Basil
B r a d s h a w, e x p r e s s e d gratitude to the sponsors and wished the teams well. He stated that it is heartening to know that the company has pledged their support for another tournament next year adding
that he hopes it is the start of a dominoes revolution. The competition is expected to run for three weeks and the Georgetown zone will commence at Gaulding Place.
Saturday April 09, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 35
PM Gonsalves hails Windies’ Rockets’ playoff hopes victories supports players dim after loss to Suns
PM Ralph Gonsalves (left) greets Darren Sammy at St Vincent’s Parliament yesterday. (Sports Caribe)
Kingstown, St. Vincent (Sports Caribe) - Prime m i n i s t e r D r. R a l p h Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has labelled the two historic victories by the West Indies Men and Women cricket teams in the finals of the 2016 ICC World T20 Cricket tournament as a “collective expression of what is magnificent in o u r C a r i b b e a n civilisation.” S p e a k i n g t o www.sportcaraibe.com in an exclusive interview on Tuesday afternoon following the adjournment of Parliament in Kingstown, Dr. Gonsalves stated “team efforts by the women and men and by the young people earlier in the year are extra ordinary tributes all to our civilisation.” He said that the spirit of the people one cannot break it “even at the time when the organisers of cricket are playing the fool with it. The people themselves who are participating by their skill, by their effort, and with the grace of GOD, and the support of the Caribbean people; they have lifted themselves and the region, and they have realised their
possibilities despite all the shackles and limitations imposed upon them by circumstances of history and by a Board which is behaving in a paternalistic manner and seeking to manage the public good as though it is a private interest. The longest serving Prime Minister in the Caribbean continuously, Dr. Gonsalves made it clear that, “I support Darren Sammy and his team, Stephanie Taylor and her team, the Under-19, and I condemn the approach of the current Board both in terms of its structures and the articulation of some of its leading personnel, including David Cameron.” Meanwhile, addressing yesterday’s session of Parliament in the Vincent capital, Dr. Gonsalves blasted West Indies Cricket B o ar d p r es id en t D av e Cameron tweet as counterproductive and shameful. Cameron’s tweet on Sunday April 03, 3016, “When is the last time a critic paid one of your bills? Always remember that when you start to give them your
Cheddi Jagan Memorial T20 concludes tomorrow Nandy Park and West Demerara Mavericks will clash in the final of the Cheddi Jagan Memorial Over-40 T20 tournament tomorrow at Farm, East
Bank Demerara. Prior to the game, Good Hope Golden Star will play Herstelling in a T20 affair. Action gets underway at 09:30 hrs.
energy,” has since seen a harsh backlash of criticism from across the globe for his insensitivity towards the players and their accomplishments. Meanwhile, yesterday, Prime Minister Gonsalves informed that Darren Sammy will receive full citizenship from St Vincent. The PM told Sammy when the Windies T20 Captain visited the P a r l i a m e n t y e s t e r d a y. (www.sportcaraibe.com)
Phoenix Suns forward Mirza Teletovic (35) shoots the ball during the second quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports) Reuters (The Sports Xchange) - James Harden wore a somber expression in a virtually empty locker room late Thursday night, a scene that painted the perfect picture of the Houston Rockets’ season-long struggle with failure and frustration. Phoenix’s P.J. Tucker and Mirza Teletovic shared the offensive load, and the Suns dealt a severe blow to the
Rockets’ fading postseason hopes with a 124-115, comeback victory at Toyota Center. The Suns (21-58) snapped a seven-game slide by im m e d i a t e l y answering the Rockets’ 7-0 spurt with a 12-0 run of their own in the fourth quarter. Houston (38-41) had surged to a 110-107 lead, but starting with two Devin
Booker free throws with 3:10 left, Phoenix wrested control and did severe damage to the Rockets’ playoff designs. The Rockets, with three games remaining, trail the Dallas Mavericks by 2 1/2 games and the Utah Jazz by 1 1/2 games. “(It’s) extremely tough (to) come back home after a tough loss (in Dallas on Wednesday) and just give the (Continued on page 25)
t r o Sp
Boyce/Jefford launches Relay Festival and Family Fun Day -Event promises fun, competition in one package
Stakeholders yesterday pose for a photo opportunity after the launch of the Boyce/Jefford Relay Festival and Family Fun Day. From left: Banks DIH Non-Alcoholic Brand Manager, Clayton McKenzie, NSC Commissioner, Seon Erskine, Secretary of the Boyce/Jefford Committee, Cheryle Sam, Chairman, Colin Boyce and Technical Director, Mark Scott.
Windies U-19s, Girls honoured by GOG yesterday Team sponsors Digicel provides ‘fantastic five’ with gifts
The five Guyanese West Indies players with Sports Minister, Director of Sports, NSC Chairman, Minister of Tourism, Head of Digicel Marking and GCB President at 704 Sports Bar & Lounge yesterday. 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