Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Brutal end to kidnapping…
Businessman’s body found in cemetery After holding their captive for almost four days, kidnappers finally lost patience and murdered Enmore spare parts dealer, Rajendra Singh, called Sunil, even before they could collect the $25M ransom they had demanded. The 40-year-old Singh’s body with a bullet wound to the head, was discovered in an isolated section of Le Repentir cemetery around 09:30 hours yesterday. His killers had used a jersey to tie his mouth and nose. The killers then proceeded to stuff him in an alcove created by some fallen trees. They had removed his pants, leaving him clad in his socks and his underwear. His hands were bound with what appeared to be his belt. A worker, who was in the process of identifying suitable land for burial sites, stumbled upon Singh’s bound body. “Me see de body under a tree…He been pon he face. Me run out hay, pick up me bicycle and go at de office and tell me boss,” the worker stated. He could not estimate how long the body was there but investigators believe that Singh was killed right in the cemetery some time early yesterday morning. They reportedly recovered a warhead from a tree near where the body was
Dead: Rajendra Singh found, convincing them that the bullet which killed Singh passed through his skull and lodged in the tree. Initially, people could only guess at the identity of the body although there were speculations that it was the missing businessman. It was a relative, who turned up in the cemetery and positively identified him. News of the discovery was relayed to Singh’s immediate relatives in Enmore who were obviously shocked, since they were desperately hoping that he would have been released without harm. The shocking discovery came even as Singh’s relatives had accumulated part of the ransom, which they
A relative treks to the scene at Le Repentir Cemetery where Singh’s body was found. had hoped to deliver to the kidnappers to secure his safe release. Singh was snatched from his store on the Foulis Public Road on Saturday night in the presence of his wife and two of his employees by two gunmen who had pretended to be customers. The men dumped Singh in the trunk of his car and sped away. Less than an hour later, the car, a Toyota IST was found abandoned at Goedverwagting, a few miles away. The kidnappers subsequently made an initial
UN Good Officer for Venez. border issue, Norman Girvan, dies Jamaican-born, Professor Norman Girvan, who was working on behalf of the United Nations to find a solution to the Guyana/ Venezuela border issue, has died. Considered one of the Caribbean’s foremost thinkthank personalities, the 72year-old died in Cuba yesterday. He had reportedly suffered a serious fall while in Dominica earlier this year. According to CARICOM’s Secretary General, Irwin LaRocque, Girvan’s ideas and ideals placed him in the upper echelons of Caribbean intellectuals. “It is with deep sadness that I have received the news of the death of Professor Norman Girvan, a man whose life’s work was underlined by unremitting dedication to a vision of an integrated Caribbean.” His service as main author of Towards a Single Development Vision and the Role of the Single Economy,
Dead: Professor Norman Girvan a visionary document to guide the development of CARICOM, was a prime example of his commitment, LaRocque said. “I extend sincere condolences to his wife and family and to the Government and People of Jamaica on the loss of a true Caribbean icon.” He was Professor Emeritus of the University of
the West Indies (UWI). In October, Government announced that the United Nations (UN) had agreed for Jamaica-born, Norman Girvan, to continue handling the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela. The Good Officer Process is charged with finding a solution to the GuyanaVenezuela controversy that arose from the Venezuelan contention that the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, that definitively established the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela, is null and void. The process commenced in 1989 and was established according to the Geneva Agreement of February 17, 1966. The UN Secretary General is the Good Officer. Venezuela is laying claim to a large part of Essequibo and continental shelf in which fishing is taking place by Guyanese. However, both governments have recommitted to the UN process to settle the issue.
demand of $50M for his release. This figure was then reduced by half the following morning. The kidnappers had also warned Singh’s wife not to contact the police. They also demanded the tapes from the surveillance cameras that surrounded the business place. Although they were monitoring the subsequent telephone calls, investigators admitted that they were unable to ascertain the exact location from where they originated with a view to narrowing down where Singh was being held captive. While no one has been directly linked to the kidnapping, detectives had detained a woman who was listed as the owner of the SIM
card from which telephone contact was made by the kidnappers to the businessman’s wife, Heema. The death of the businessman will take its toll on his friends and relatives, including his mother and two sons who live in the USA. It has come at a time when family members were issuing a public appeal for the kidnappers to release the businessman. “His two sons abroad, aged 20 and 15 years, shared a close bond with their father. One of the sons, who attends college, is so shocked, he has secured himself in his room. Both he and his other brother are incommunicado with the rest of the family. They only venture out when it is necessary,” his father in law
Ratilall Rambaran, told this newspaper yesterday. He said that Sunil’s mother is on the verge of a nervous breakdown after learning about the fate of her only son. “I leave the rest to the public for their maternal instincts and imagination of what then relatives are going through,” Rambaran said. In light of the ongoing budget debates, the relatives are calling on the subject minister responsible for citizen’s security to move a motion, calling on the entire national assembly to condemn “this barbaric act and empathise with all Guyanese. All parliamentarians should show solidarity and support at this time.”
Murders up by 37 percent There were 10 more murders up to March month end this year when compared with the same period in 2013. Figures released by the police revealed that there were 37 murders by March for the period mentioned representing a 37 per cent increase against the same period last year. Of the 37 murders, five were of the disorderly type, seven were committed during armed robberies, one execution, 10 domestic related, while the other 14 are so far undetermined. There was an overall decrease of three percent in serious crimes for the same period. The total number of reports of serious crimes made between January 01 and March 31, 2014, was 923 compared to 949 for the same period in 2013. Some of the offences monitored are murder, robbery under arms, robbery
with violence, larceny from the person, break and enter and larceny, burglary, rape and kidnapping. At the end of March 2014 robbery under arms overall increased by 21 per cent, with 285 reports compared to 235 for the same period in 2013. The statistics indicate an increase of 38 per cent in the number of armed robberies involving the use of firearms; and a four percent decrease in armed robberies where instruments other than firearms were used by the perpetrators. Since then there has been one kidnapping which resulted in the death of businessman Rajendra Singh. In relation to traffic, 28 road fatalities from 26 accidents have been recorded at the end of March 2014. The figures were the same for the comparative period in 2013.
The other categories of accidents – serious, minor and damage – have seen reductions unto the end of March this year, in comparison to last year. Pedestrians have been the main victims 11 losing their lives at the end of March 2014. In addition, six motor cyclists, five pedal cyclists, one driver and five passengers of motor vehicles also lost their lives. Speeding continues to be a major contributing factor to fatal accidents and was the cause of 17 of the 26 fatal accidents recorded at the end of March 2014. Traffic enforcement by the police has resulted in a total of 20,112 cases being made against errant motorists unto the end of March 2014; of this total, 4,965 cases were for speeding. To date, two persons have lost their lives on the road for the month of April 2014.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 10, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
The Trinidad example The occurrences in neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago have not escaped the notice of Guyanese with specific reference to the actions of that country’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar with the recent firings of several of her government ministers. Those removed from public office as a result of running afoul of the personal and political principles of their erstwhile leader are probably now considering the errors of their ways. But let us examine the options available to our very own President Donald Ramotar. First of all it is generally accepted that His Excellency is not his own man as evidenced by the wholesale bequeathing of cabinet members by his predecessor. Allegations of impropriety have been an almost normal characteristic in this current dispensation and reflect a continuation of misconduct under the previous administration. Nothing to appease the soul of the governed is attempted and the collect psyche is further debilitated by inexplicable executive irresoluteness and indecisiveness. It is apparent that this government is quite comfortable with the perceptions our neighbouring countries have of us and therefore there is no urgency to treat with behaviours which in other countries are not tolerated. Maybe His Excellency can learn from some of the experience of South Sudanese President Salva Kiir who fired his entire Cabinet and Vice President within two years of his country gaining independence from Sudan. To show that there are no sacred cows, among those sent packing were Pagan Amum, the Secretary-General of the ruling party and top negotiator at the peace talks which led to independence and Vice President Riek Machar who had untimely ambitions. President Jacob Zuma of South Africa effected a cabinet reshuffle seventeen months after first announcing the names of his government ministers. Zuma who has since become a lightning rod in a controversy over accusations of unethical conduct, made further cabinet changes each following year from 2010 to 2013. France’s new Prime Minister Manuel Valls unhesitatingly made significant adjustments to the Cabinet lineup when he sacked the finance minister and shifted around the incumbents of several portfolios including for Women’s Rights; Urban Policy; and appointed a new Environment and Energy Minister. What is perhaps significant is the resoluteness of the aforementioned Heads of Government who do not seem to be hamstrung by any impediments to their occupancy of the highest office in the land. Allegations of corruption have been addressed in Malawi by President Joyce Banda probably in response to a European Union warning that it would stay the release of a pledged •29m (£25m) disbursement in December if a corruption scandal involving her minister was not resolved. It is believed that the Malawi President had purged her government so that those implicated could be investigated. The alleged malefactors included ten government officials who were arrested and charged with money laundering, misuse of public office and corruption; nine senior police officers who were each jailed for 14 years for their roles in a $164,000 (£102,814) fraud; and twenty-five ministers whom she fired since she had lost faith in them, and to make sure that those implicated did not interfere with the investigations. Donald Ramotar’s fatal flaw could be seen in the context of not looking far enough ahead to recognize the potential political backlash which his seeming reluctance to decisively confront those deviant personalities he had inherited could unleash. Interestingly, Banda’s Finance Minister who at the time was heading a high-profile delegation to Washington meetings with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund was also fired with his colleagues. There can be no getting away from the widely held view that Guyanese were shortchanged with Ramotar’s sheepish acceptance of the old ministerial appointees some of whom had been tried, tested and found wanting in the balance. There is a current mood of unfounded strident optimism that is counterbalanced by the uncertainty of ever regaining majority status if the same level of belligerent arrogance
Bribery unites all races, once the loot is shared ethnically DEAR EDITOR, It is amazing how racism in Trinidad has a way to find the common denominator for existence by one love, one destiny surviving harmoniously in massive corruption. While that country’s ethnic rivalry may play out in terms of jobs, housing, interracial marriage and interreligious bashing, there is unity across racial lines in the brotherhood of corruption keeping the country stable and peaceful. At all levels of government offices serving the public it leads to
corruption as the norm. For example in constructing a commercial building official authorization is necessary. At the first level the official, of one descent, depending how respectful you are, will treat you accordingly and stamp approval. At second level the official, of another descent, will approve by the official stamp after the initial arrogance and rudeness, secure and collect his bribe and then direct you onwards. Third level up the ladder is the final official, of yet another descent, who will
gladly stamp approval after collecting the usual, but afterwards regularly visits your home since you are his “good friend” for life. Shun him at your peril and find your house failing final inspection denying the certificate of completion. These officials, are of varying descent, are completely and unofficially in the same brotherhood of bribery and corruption, all with unclean hands but who cares. Corruption has united the upper/lower officials and race does not matter at all anymore in Trinidad and Tobago.
Bribery not only gets the job done faster, but makes it possible from start to finish, regardless of the law in Trinidad. In Trinidad, there is no shared government in the cabinet, however in all government institutions there is shared bribery among the races. All for one, and one for all. Is this kind of sharing bribery in Trinidad government offices the opposition of Guyana meant by shared government? Bribery has it assets, unites all races, once the loot is shared ethnically. Loving it. Vassan Ramracha
Placing Hofasawa into this justice system may not be the best solution DEAR EDITOR, You placed on the front page of your Tuesday April 08, 2014 edition, a caption: Supply woman, 21, remanded for children’s killings. I wish to comment on this matter, which I hope will be the kindle that starts conversations of abnormal behaviour as a continuum. From a previous media report, I learnt this was not the first time Hofasawa exhibited abnormal behaviour. Previously, she had sought medical assistance but was unsuccessfully attended to, despite her being described as “alright now”. This suggests her abnormal behaviour was unrecognised and so its repercussions missed. The age of her older child
informs that Hofasawa had a teenage pregnancy. While we may be inclined to find this unrelated to her present plight, maladaptive behaviours have roots. I am not implying that teenage pregnancy is abnormal behaviour, but it surely is fertile ground for deciding how young women learn responsibility and gain meaningful employment, both important to grow their sense of self. I hope the climax of Hofasawa’s actions, the murder her two small children as an option to separation, and subsequently her attempted suicide, will be considered abnormal behaviour. Thus, placing her into this justice system may not be the best solution. Your reporter in the article
described Hofasawa as “impassive”, that she “strolled casually up to the courtroom”, and of most importance that she was unrepresented by legal counsel. Those are not my words but of someone, without medical training, who is also trained to closely observe. Unless this young woman was intentionally drugged, these observations should cue us – as witnessing abnormal behaviour. Now for a few observations. I learnt, in the media, that Hofasawa and her children didn’t “want for anything”. This, I presumed meant that both she and her children had the comfort that money provides. So does the fact of not being represented by counsel also inform that the source of her previous
comforts is now unavailable? I trust the state considers it worthy to provide a lawyer who I hope will consider her behaviour – abnormal, and that her family does not desert her now, a time, when more than ever she needs their love and support. I don’t know the circumstances which led for her children’s care to be transferred to their father. This, however, doesn’t prevent me from having a feeling. I sense (if incorrectly I can apologise) that no one tasked themselves to prepare this young woman, in a way that she could accept, for the impending separation; and that she didn’t know she had a right – to be given the opportunity to remain in touch and be involved in her children’s life. Janice Imhoff
If we don’t take back our party now… DEAR EDITOR, I am somewhat disturbed and confused as to the thought pattern of the leadership of APNU; I refer to the manner in which they go about making replacement of parliamentarians specifically I make reference to Ernest Elliot being the replacement for Jaipaul Sharma. I have no doubt that Mr. Elliot is a strong politician and a grass root person of the PNCR, but I strongly believed that the current dispensation within the parliament called for a stronger person. Mr. Sharma along with many other members and
supporters of the PNCR felt that this was the opportune time for Mr. Aubrey Norton to return to the parliament of Guyana so as to deal with the corrupt and inept regime. While I may not be a strong supporter of Mr. Norton, I believe that he is most suited at this time since we need a strong political visionary and tactician to expose those of the regime and bring them to subjection. It seems clearly that the executive of the PNCR has a problem with Norton and so they continue to sideline him. However, I wish to say that if all of them are put together they cannot mobilise like Mr.
prevails. President Ramotar must be seized with the urgency to pick a new team based on competency and not be saddled with relics of the worst excesses of political expediency in this country. His Excellency must unburden himself and step up to be counted as the President who accepted no less than the highest moral standards from his cabinet.
Norton. This brings me to the point that the members erred when they overwhelmingly voted for David Granger to become leader of the PNCR when he was already leading the grouping APNU, I strongly believe that this has come back to haunt many of the PNCR members and supporters and we are experiencing a slow death of the PNCR, the party founded by Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. It seems to be a clear strategy not only by the ruling PPP/C regime to destroy the legacy of Burnham. I say this to say that I have observed that the PNCR colours have been changed from red, black and green to “green”. Suffice to say that activities and programmes organized by the PNCR, the colour green is very dominant, ranging from the clothes people wear to the
decorations. I also observe that members of the Youth arm of the party, the GYSM, are all decked out in green whenever they are on fan-out exercises and other activities. More recently I also saw one of the party’s vehicles repainted in green and the Headquarters has taken on a green look with the vegetation around the secretariat, indeed a clear sign that there are changes in the PNCR and the party has now taken on a para-military dimension. As a supporter of the PNCR, I don’t believe that members should sit and allow this party to be destroyed it’s time the likes of Oscar Clarke, Amna Ally, Vincent Alexander, Aubrey Norton and even Robert Corbin take back our party. We had a golden opportunity in 2006 to take back this country from this (Continued on page 5)
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 5
NAACIE sugar workers up pressure Recalling Dr Cheddi Jagan for 2011 arbitration compliance Letters... Where your views make the news
DEAR EDITOR, As a Member of Parliament, representing Region Ten on A Partnership for National Unity’s slate, there was cause during my Budget presentation, to make reference to Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s philosophy as Leader of the PPP. This was in an effort to jolt the memory of Members on the Government side as to how far they have strayed from their revered Leader. How much they have betrayed his legacy. Though it came as no surprise, Mr. Clement Rohee in his role as the party’s General Secretary, having to find something to say in his Monday Press Conference sought to examine what was said in the House. I suggest that his and the public’s time would have been best served had he made known his specific disagreement with reference to Dr. Jagan in the debate presentation. His regurgitation of stories, told a hundred times, about rigged elections and 1948 sugar workers’ struggle, are poor attempts at camouflaging the references made to Dr. Jagan. I am in my thirties, and a large percentage of this population is under 35 years
old. The allegations and counter allegations of rigged elections, in a time when we were not born or were children, serve only as history and have no direct impact on our day to day lives and what we aspire to be, which is what a National Budget should factor in. Our generation is not interested in settling old scores or living the hate and distrust of some of our seniors. We desire a society where persons are free to campaign and vote for a party of choice and when the elections are over we want our elected leaders to get down to the business of good governance. This is the debate, as a member of the Opposition, I participated in. Region Ten voted for all the parliamentary parties. Now that the elections are over, the Executive has to deliver and will be held to this expectation. Rohee is advised that my generation wants opportunities to unleash our potential and pursue our dreams, to judge and form friendships based on character not race or political association, to pursue our dreams in the land of our birth regardless of whom we are, what party we
voted for, or where we live. In short, Minister Rohee is advised that my generation has heard and had enough of the old hate and wars. We want an unpolluted environment and clean air to go about our business. We want all to be held to the same standard and play by the same rules. We want an environment where the Constitution works for all and not for some. Below is an excerpt of my reference to Dr. Jagan that has so angered the Honourable Member:“Note is taken that the Honourable Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, in his presentation addressed government’s desire to expand bauxite output. It was the late president Dr. Cheddi Jagan who reminded this nation that development must carry a human face and as stated in the New Global Order: ‘Human rights must embrace the civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights.’” As we are now witnessing, the party of Dr Jagan is drifting further and further away from the principles he espoused. Vanessa Kissoon Member of Parliament APNU, Region 10
What has happened to hanging as a penalty? DEAR EDITOR, The topic of ‘Hanging Guilty Criminals’ was brought to my attention during a recent debate over the judgment of the Mahaicony mother accused of poisoning her two children. My mother reminded me of the low crime rate when hanging was still practiced and the way persons seemed scared to commit crimes since they knew their penalty would definitely be ‘death by hanging’. What has happened to hanging as a penalty? We are having enough evidence of persons being 110% guilty of crimes and yet still we merely give those persons 5-10 years
imprisonment and still have them eligible for parole. That is pure nonsense! Hang them, and get it over with! There have been recent cases when accused persons have appeared to have gotten away ‘scot-free’, with some suggestion of threatening in it. Why else would witnesses to these crimes be no-shows, not only at court but everywhere else in the country? If persons before were hanged, I’m definitely sure that the ‘only’ witness would have done everything in his/her power to see the murderer got what they deserved, ‘death by hanging’! I’m pretty sure that I am not the only individual in this
country that would love to see the reintroduction of hanging. Persons would definitely have their deserved justice, and criminals would more likely consider the consequences Beloved Guyanese, I am a young, concerned citizen that is very ambitious and I would love to have your support in reintroducing hanging in Guyana. It is only fair for families to have their deserved justice when there is enough evidence that qualifies the criminal for death. I would love for my letter to reach to the point where it would be a debated topic in the National Assembly. Arlene Andries
If we don’t take back our… From page 4 inept regime. We cannot go forward in the next elections with the same slate, and so I am urging the members of the party, come Congress 2014, let us take back our party. We have some young and vibrant persons who are willing to lead this thrust and with the support of the old stalwarts we can move forward, no longer should there be a maximum leader of the PNCR. You have to elect a new leader of the party. We need someone who understands the political dynamic of this country, a visionary and a go-getter. If we sit and allow the current leadership to continue we are doomed to experience a natural political death. I will
always remain a supporter of the PNCR and will always encourage young people to support the party, but currently what is taking place within the party many young people are being reluctant to be part of the PNCR, while they may attend all the green wave and sessions they have at Congress Place, many are saying they just can’t understand what is taking place in the PNCR and what happened to some of the old stalwarts. We need to wake up my comrades. As Desmond Hoyte would have said “enough is enough.” If we don’t take back our party now, we just have to decide to remain in opposition for twenty-plus more years. Garfield Boston
- GuySuCo says actions “unofficial” Sugar workers represented by the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) yesterday took industrial actions to push for pay that was laid out in accordance with a 2011 arbitration award. According to NAACIE, yesterday, it has issued an ultimatum to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) which seeks to have the corporation comply with the Norman McLean Arbitration award and Collective Labour Agreement dated July 8, 2011. The workers who took part in the actions are all employed at eight estates in Demerara and Berbice and its Head Office, in Ogle, East Coast Demerara. “This issue has been the result of a very long battle by NAACIE to cause the anomalies that was created by the across the board payment made to all workers regardless of their responsibilities to work, their productivity and importance of their jobs to the Corporation.” NAACIE said, that the agreement in 2011 came after long and consistent struggle with “many annual imposition of wages” and included the price for the job. “Because of bunching of salaries caused by that agreement, another agreement was reached between GuySuCo and NAACIE, causing workers with up to ten years service to receive two per cent per year added to the price for jobs for each year of service as their personal salaries.” The years of service agreement was never a contentious issue between the union and the Corporation, NAACIE said. “As a result of arbitration ruling and years of service agreements, all adjustments were to be made on the price
of the job only. The Corporation’s implementation of the award after the arbitration report is incorrect as pointed out by the union and the Minister of Labour. This is to be done in keeping with our agreement also signed on July 8, 2011.” NAACIE said that it has issued an ultimatum to GuySuCo and will continue to fight until its members are paid according to the agreement and arbitration award. Yesterday, GuySuCo said that NAACIE’s action was unofficial and that only a small section of the union’s bargaining unit was on strike. GuySuCo insisted that the workers are not entitled to the payment and that just 137 workers of approximately 1,000 on strike. The highest number, 39, was on strike at Blairmont. “Except for Blairmont where the preparation of payroll may be affected, the operations on the other estates, including factory operations, are unaffected.” GuySuCo said that the union’s General Secretary has refused to confirm that a strike was due to take place. This, therefore, rendered the strike action “unofficial, and a clear violation of the extant grievance procedure”. The Corporation also pointed out that recently, during the current crop, some NAACIE workers at Blairmont took a two-day industrial action on reason similar today’s. The workers resumed on their own accord without the Corporation conceding to their claim. “The genesis of the workers’ claim is a misinterpretation of the Norman McLean Arbitration
award, which was declared in April last year. The arbitration tribunal, which had comprised Mr. Normal McLean, Chairman; and committee members Drs. Gobind Ganga and Clive Thomas, was appointed to “enquire into the request for a review of the job evaluation agreement between the Union (NAACIE) and the Corporation (GuySuCo) dated July 8, 2011 and to correct the anomalies, if any, that existed after the job evaluation agreement between GuySuCo and NAACIE.” The tribunal made its award, after presentations by the Union and GuySuCo, in April 2013. The award, which was within the terms of reference, corrected the anomalies that were presented by the Union. The Corporation said that during several meetings, it advised the union that it could not “acquiesce” to the request for adjustments to the workers’ pay more than what was awarded by the tribunal. “Despite these meetings with the Corporation and a meeting with the members of the tribunal on October 18, 2013, the union persists in its demand. The Corporation takes the opportunity to call upon the striking workers and NAACIE to allow better sense to prevail so that every opportunity could be taken to assist the Corporation in realizing its production target for this crop.”
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 10, 2014
Judge Ramlal peeved at Super salaries are paid to keep inaccuracies in jail delivery report skilled labour - says Rohee A contrast from what govt said two years ago General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Clement Rohee, has said that super salaries are paid to contract employees because there is a shortage of skills within the system. When those positions are filled, super salaries are paid to keep those persons and get the work done, he added. Rohee was at the time speaking to the perception in some quarters that when Dr. Cheddi Jagan came into office, he attacked super salaries but that this fight has now been overturned by the PPP Government. The General Secretary of the PPP agreed that Dr. Jagan fought super salaries but did not agree that the fight was overturned. According to Rohee, “You have to go back to what the salaries were; Ministers, top public servants etc., and you would be able to see what they were earning at the time when they got into government and over the years with the constant increases what they are receiving today… This was not just a quantum leap.” Rohee added, “Government also moved to engage many persons on a contractual basis. This was
General Secretary of the PPP Clement Rohee because there was a severe shortage of certain skills in the system. And if there was a severe shortage of skills in the system and you really need these people, you have to make a decision. Do you want these people and do you pay them for what they are qualified or do you simply fall prey to the opposition view that says, ‘don’t give super salaries and leave a big gap in the system.” According to Rohee, all decision makers have to decide at some point, “whether you leave a gap in the system because you want to adhere to their whims and fancies that look boy, don’t
pay this man this super salary or we will get criticized or pay him to get the work done in order for you to fulfill your quota. It seems to me that Governments tend to go the latter way.” This however, is in sharp contrast to what Government had said two years ago when the combined opposition kicked up a storm over super salaries being paid to government officials on a contractual basis. Government, through its Public Service Minister Dr. Jennifer Westford, had said in 2012 in a Kaieteur News article captioned “Govt. insists no super salaries paid to contract workers” that contract workers are being paid on par with public servants. Minister Westford in the article made a point that contract workers are prevalent in Government agencies and is an option exercised. She further said that even at Parliament, there were 56 contract workers being paid comparative salaries to what public servants are receiving…the only difference is that the contract workers would receive their gratuity twice yearly.
Justice William Ramlal is not too happy about what he described as gross inaccuracies contained in an article carried by this newspaper under the caption “Only one guilty verdict in 25 cases”. The article claimed that during the Demerara/January 2014 Assizes, the judge had disposed of three murder cases. The article quoted a release from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) which stated that in all three matters the trial judge upheld no case submissions and directed the jury to return formal verdicts of not guilty. But Justice Ramlal, asked to comment on the report of his work, said that what was contained in the article was an inaccurate reflection of his service to the judicial system. According to Justice Ramlal, in the first place, he presided over four cases and not three as was stated by the DPP in the article. He said that the report gives the impression that he deliberately set out to discharge matters that were brought before him. In the case of the State vs Latchman Ramlall, the judge, said that he first did diligent investigations to ensure that he and the accused were not related. In that matter he
Justice William Ramlal upheld no case submissions. In the case of the State vs Satnandand Sahadeo, in which no case submissions were also upheld, Justice Ramlal explained that the legal elements of the offence were missing. He even contended that the DPP should not have instituted the murder charge. Then there was the case of Eddie Andy Williams, who Justice Ramlal said, pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter. According to the Judge the jury did find the accused not guilty in the case of the State vs Carl Bennett. “To say that I directed the jury in these cases to return not guilty verdicts is a bit misleading,” the Judge told this newspaper.
Justice Ramlal is one of four Judges who presided during the Demerara January assizes; the others were Justices Franklin Holder, James Bovell-Drakes and Navindra Singh. The information released by the DPP in a statement following jail delivery pointed to t h e f a c t t h a t l o c a l prosecution continues to take a battering with juries returning only one guilty verdict during the recently concluded criminal assizes. The DPP, in a detailed statement, revealed that for the Demerara January criminal session, which commenced on January 15 and ended on March 28, only 18 of the 233 cases listed to be heard were completed. Of the 18 completed cases, 16 were presented and two of them were nolle prosequi by the DPP. According to the DPP, of the 16 matters presented, there were 11 verdicts and five pleas. “For the eleven matters where there were verdicts there was one guilty verdict, eight not guilty verdicts and two hung jury verdicts. Five accused who were indicted for murder, pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of Manslaughter,” the DPP had stated.
Three years later…
Hope Canal, $3.6B, now gets June deadline The much delayed $3.6B Hope/ Dochfour Canal project has a new deadline. The new date of completion is June. Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, has insisted that the project will not go beyond its original cost. According to the 2014 National Budget Estimates, the government has allocated $4.420B to complete the alternative outlet for the regulation of the East Demerara Water Conservancy, along with acquiring eight of the 14 fixed pumps from India, conduct training and gain technical support for the drainage and irrigation sector.
Some $3.245B has already been spent, with the government allocating an additional sum of $878.464M for this year. Just one day after Dr. Ramsammy confirmed that all of the 14 pumps from India had arrived in Guyana, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon refuted this, stating that some were to arrive last December. The pumps, eight of which have been budgeted for this year, were procured at the cost of US$4M. They are being sourced from Surendra Engineering out of India through a line of credit. Meanwhile, as the Agriculture Ministry gears up to have the Northern Relief Channel project become operational by June, one of the three major components has been completed. The $349M Hope Bridge, which was being constructed
The recently commissioned bridge at Hope, East Coast Demerara (GINA Photo) by DIPCON Engineering, was recently commissioned by President, Donald Ramotar. The overhead structure stands parallel to the East Coast Demerara Public Road and is open to traffic. Construction of the Hope/ Dochfour Northern Relief Channel was undertaken by former Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud, who estimated an 18-month completion period, when construction commenced in
February 2011. Late last year Dr. Ramsammy, in his capacity as Agriculture Minister, announced an extended completion date – June 2013. This was subsequently extended to August 31, and later to December 2013. One of the largest infrastructure initiatives in Guyana’s history, overall works on the Hope/Dochfour Canal is said to be dependent on the completion of the eight-
gated sluice, the Courtney Benn aspect of the project. Dr. Ramsammy stressed that this entity is responsible for the entire project being behind schedule, since each co m p o n e n t is dependent on the other. The other major structure is the three-gated Head Regulator- the component assigned to BK International. In another effort to meet the new date of operation, the Agriculture Ministry had
undertaken the task of manufacturing the eight steel doors for the outfall. It has been purported that the relief channel would have the capacity to withstand floods greater than that which occurred in 2005. It is being constructed to ease the pressure of water on the East Demerara Water Conservancy at times when it reaches its maximum capacity, releasing it into the Atlantic Ocean, via the Sluice.
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
Separatists build barricades in east Ukraine, Kiev warns of force
Masked pro-Russian activists guard barricades at the regional administration building in Donetsk, Ukraine, yesterday. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky) LUHANSK, Ukraine (Reuters) - Pro-Russian separatists reinforced barricades around the state security building in the eastern Ukrainian city of Luhansk yesterday and called on President Vladimir Putin for help after the government warned it could use force to restore order. But protesters were also engaged in talks to ease the standoff, which Kiev has said could provide a pretext for a Russian invasion, and lawmakers from eastern Ukraine proposed an amnesty for protesters to defuse tension. The former KGB headquarters is one of
three government buildings seized this week in eastern Ukraine by protesters demanding regional referendums on independence from Kiev, like the one in Crimea that led to its annexation by Russia. Tensions have risen in the mainly Russian-speaking east since the overthrow of Ukraine’s Moscow-backed president and the installation of a new pro-European government. “Of course we must ask Russia to take us in because I don’t see an alternative,” said a man dressed in camouflage who gave his name as Vasiliy and said he was the commandant
of the building. “Putin help us!” he said. Sandbags and wooden crates were piled near the entrance of the building to defend it against the police. Men with rifles could be seen through broken windows above.Local police spokeswoman Tatyana Pogukai said protesters had found an arsenal of weapons within the building. Protesters say they have 200-300 Kalashnikov automatic rifles. She denied previous reports that hostages had been taken. She said negotiations had been carried out overnight but the two sides had not come to an agreement.
Cameron’s authority dented as minister resigns (Reuters) - Prime Minister David Cameron suffered a blow to his authority yesterday when a scandal-hit minister he had been doggedly defending resigned, exposing him to charges of weak leadership and poor judgment. Maria Miller, Britain’s minister for culture, stepped down after a backlash against her expenses claims disrupted efforts by Cameron and his ruling Conservative party to woo voters ahead of European Parliament elections next month. Cameron’s party is expected to finish a humiliating third in the European ballot behind the surging anti-EU UK Independence party (UKIP) whose leader had accused Cameron of making a “catastrophic” error of judgment by failing to sack Miller. Conservative MPs had also begun to fret that the Miller
Maria Miller imbroglio was damaging their party’s image and its hopes of winning a national election in 2015. UKIP, which has styled itself as an anti-establishment party, had seized upon the case of Miller, who gave a perfunctory 32-second public
apology last week, as an example of how remote and venal the country’s political elite is. Michael Heaver, a spokesman for the party, said yesterday the furore had badly shown up the Conservatives, who are also known as ‘Tories’ in Britain. “Entire Maria Miller affair shambolic for Tories and shames British politics,” he wrote on Twitter. “Cameron and top table Tories dangerously out of touch.” The opposition Labour Party, which is battling it out with UKIP for first place in the European elections, strongly criticised Cameron during fiery exchanges in parliament over his refusal to sack Miller. How, it asked, could he have justified leaving her in place when a report had ordered her to pay back wrongly claimed money and found she had tried to hinder an inquiry into the matter.
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Thursday April 10, 2014
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Opposition approves $6B bailout for GuySuCo By: Kiana Wilburg Some 300 sugar estate workers came out to protest the Opposition’s signal to disapprove of the $6B subvention to the sugar industry yesterday outside of the Parliament. The protest which, started out quietly, became invigorated by comments made by Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee and Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand. The large gathering shouted, “The Opposition is not concerned about our interest. They don’t care about us Indians. They want us out of the Industry.” But comments such as these also prompted a show down between staunch opposition supporters and those of the government. The police were forced to intervene and requested the opposition supporters to leave and not “cause a problem” when the racial slurs intensified. Scores of sugar estate workers marched from the corner of Avenue of the Republic and Brickdam to Manget Place and returned to
- after workers protest threat to cut subvention
Sugar estate workers during the protest yesterday along Brickdam the eastern side of the Parliament Building. Members of the Parliament were at the time passing through the crowd on their way to the National Assembly. Manickchand who was on her way to Parliament joined the sugar estate workers in their protest.
The labourers, who were from various estates in Berbice, seemed angry with the opposition. They said that they felt betrayed by A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine and Leader of the Alliance For Change, Khemraj Ramjattan and
Dem boys seh...
Supenaam stelling blight Essequibo When kok wuk pass innocent people does suffer. De Supenaam stelling see so much kok wuk that at one time dem boys believe that it woulda never wuk. Years after de stelling done, dem boat was still mooring at Adventure because de stelling couldn’t wuk. Dem boys talk and de man wid de hammer go and start over de project. Bee Kay get vex because people trouble de wuk and he go to court. De judge still trying to understand why Bee Kay run to he. Next thing dem boys know is that de man wid de hammer get de stelling to wuk halfway. The very next day a pontoon sink and a week later vehicle fall overboard. Dem repair de stelling but it didn’t do good because a truck nearly fall in de river. Half de truck rest pun de stelling and half was lef in de boat. Just like how de rat had dem kantractah doing wuk halfway. Tragedy following de stelling because of wha some people do to dem taxpayer. Bee Kay seh is not he; Robeson seh that is not he but de tragedy don’t done. Innocent people does got to pay. Bright and early Wednesday morning a man going home from town and before he could blink he drive off de boat and into de
river. De truck sink. De man seh that so much bad luck following de stelling that he don’t know wha next gun happen. De whole Essequibo Coast might go under water because of de spell dem carry there. While de devil mekking all of dem life miserable pun Essequibo, de Creatah deh pun dem boys side. One judge till from New York name Judge Joanie done pick up Bobby and Jagdeo tricks and scampishness that dem use pun de poor people of Guyana. Judge Joanie feel sorry that she can’t jail dem crooks yet. Dem boys feel sorry too. Dem sorry fuh de man who get kidnap and end up dead. Dem sorry fuh he family. Dem boys believe that dem kidnap de wrang man. That is why de Waterfalls boss man seh that he know de right people who fuh get kidnap. Dem does walk round wid sturdy plug and guava leaf. Dem got real money and dem ain’t got nutten to do wid it. Some of dem got so much that dem actually done push out de two telephone company. And Bobby bracing fuh collect more money from this budget. Talk half and dem boys ain’t forgetting Brazzy.
Moses Nagamootoo. One harvester from the Blairmont Estate said, “We came to protest against the opposition’s position on the money for the industry. From what we see in the papers and the Television, we had to come to Georgetown. We are here to send them a strong message and that is, to allow the $6B to be injected into GuySuCo so everybody life can carry own. “If GuySuCo is affected we will be affected.” Two labourers attached to the Skeldon Estate, added, “The opposition asked the government to provide a reason to show that the $6B will make a difference, but Ashni Singh already answered that question. “But the opposition doesn’t want to hear that. GuySuCo needs the money. Our children will suffer if they cut the money. Does the opposition want us to eat grass? It is clear that is only at election time the opposition says good things for us to hear. The opposition has deceived us.”
Another worker shouted, “We know what sugar has done for this country and now Nagamootoo and Ramjattan have turned against their own. Our fore parents came here and they developed this industry now the opposition wants the Indians out.” Dr. Veerasammy Ramayya of the AFC said, “I received a call this morning (yesterday) and they have been paid to come here. This is a PPP gimmick. Our intention is not to cut the money but we want accountability.” Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Minister of Agriculture, said, “I am happy they came but
this was not organized by my ministry.” Some of the protesters started making racial remarks about some of the African-oriented members of the Opposition whom they believe would not care about their interest because they are East Indians. This infuriated some people who got into heated exchanges with the protesters. The Opposition is justified in wanting explanations before supporting more money for the “dying sugar industry,” they said. By last night the House had approved the money for the sugar industry.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 10, 2014
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Why the PPP gets away with excesses Do you know the police can arrest you for buying foreign ice cream? There is no doubt about it; the young population of this country if asked which President was a terrible leader would say Bharrat Jagdeo. Given our demographic structure, they are too young to know that President Burnham was far from democratic. In fairness to Mr. Burnham, I lived under his reign and had caustic encounters with him and I suffered but one has to be the epitome of intellectual depravity to argue that Forbes Burnham was more extreme than Jagdeo. Any scholarly comparison, I believe, would
have Mr. Burnham coming out far better than Mr. Jagdeo. As a layman and a trained academic, I believe Mr. Forbes Burnham was a better President than Mr. Jagdeo What is it about Guyana that allowed Mr. Jagdeo such gigantic latitudes for dictatorial behaviour that even the Ramotar presidency enjoys? Take the madness that came out of the mouth of Minister Irfaan Ali. If such words were said in any other Caribbean country, there would have been angry denunciations. Mr. Ali is quoted in this newspaper as telling one of its reporters that the advice of the government to commuters is not to pay a $20 minibus increase and that they must take the bus
number to the police. Obviously, the government had to inform the police of the situation, why else would the commuter go to the police. What Mr. Ali and the Government of Guyana have done is to proclaim that they don’t care about laws and to make it more horrible, they order the police to do the same thing. There is no law under which a minibus driver can be arrested for hiking his fare. The reality is that minibus fares are not regulated by law. You can call the driver unreasonable or refuse to pay him but he cannot be arrested. To think that the government can openly embrace such lawlessness and the media, human rights community, Bar Association, opposition parties and the society in general stood silent is graphic proof of why dictators get away with their horror shows. You may think it is a joke but after what Irfaan Ali said, who knows what next is coming. Maybe if the Government has an ice-cream manufacturer it favours, he can report you to the police for patronizing the foreign
version. Maybe the police can arrest you if you choose to support a football match at another venue instead of the one the government would like you to attend at another ground. If you find these examples absurd then how do you account for what Ally said about the minibus fare? What Irfaan Ali did explains why Jagdeo became such an invincible dictator. So let us answer the question why this country allowed Jagdeo to do what ever he wanted and why we are now silent about the Jagdeo pattern that Ramotar has adopted? The answer is as old as time itself. Consider Hitler of Germany, Amin of Uganda, Doe of Liberia, and Bush of the US. Hitler committed one atrocity after another and there was no national outcry. The result was psychological invincibility. Hitler felt that he couldn’t be touched. The same applied for Amin and Doe. After Bush began to assault American democracy using the war on terror as his reason, the American people refused to check him until it was too late.
When they woke up they found that American democracy was shaken to its foundation by the extremism of Bush. Jagdeo began to take small tyrannical steps after the 2001 elections when he felt that Mrs. Jagan could no longer give him instructions. From 2001 to 2006, Mr Jagdeo had a taste of untamed power and he saw the society’s fear and compliance. Invincibility began to creep in. Mr. Jagdeo knew he had become a powerful president whose authority was unchecked. Then came another victory in 2006 and untamed power became absolute power. As the years wore on absolute power became omnipotent power. By the time we reached 2011 when was time for him to demit office, Jagdeo had become the first absolute dictator in the history of the British West Indies. There was nothing Mr. Jagdeo wanted he could not do and he did it. Where President Burnham was sacred because he wondered what the PPP, WPA, Catholic Standard, would say or do if he overdid
Frederick Kissoon it, there was no such hesitancy under the Jagdeo presidency. By the time he left office, Mr. Jagdeo had virtually destroyed the weak pillars of Guyanese democracy inherited from the British in 1966. Will we allow Ramotar to copy Jagdeo? The truth is, we are doing so. RETRACTION: In yesterday’s issue of this newspaper, I made a gross error in judgement. I made a harsh comment against the Director of Medical and Professional Services. I questioned his professionalism. I hasten to revoke that comment. I did not say that “in my opinion” he leaves a lot to be desired. I made a bold statement. I apologise.
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
National Budget 2014...
Amerindian youths to receive ICT training This year, a youth from every Amerindian village will receive tutorship as trainers in the area of Information Communication and Technology (ICT). They will be tasked with managing and training their peers and community members at established computer hubs. This is according to Pauline Sukhai, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, during her Budget debates presentation in the National Assembly last week. She emphasized that Government has allocated $796M in the National Budget for the expansion of the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP) and to provide the computer literacy training. Sukhai emphasized that this initiative will prepare hinterland youths in becoming computer literate a s Guyana advances and embraces the “ICT information and knowledge age.” “The 2014 Budget proposes $796M to expand this project to include the coastal Regions of Two, Three, Four, Five, Six and 10. Young people stand to benefit with an engagement that will build and increase their capabilities and enhance their skills and competencies in related community development.” Sukhai reflected that in June 2013, Government launched the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme to the tune of $200M. She noted that 886 young people of Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine were engaged in the programme. The Minister noted that this investment has resulted in many villages benefitting in the areas of improved governance and administration of village affairs, maintenance of village assets, social services, revival of the arts and craft, and support for the development of sports and culture in the various Amerindian villages and communities. In addition, Amerindian youths were trained in the
Pauline Sukhai, Minister of Amerindian Affairs management of solar panel systems and basic ICT computer hardware (installation of solar panels), she added. The Minister related that during the Budget debates there were many comments from the Opposition benches about Government’s provision of opportunities for young people. One such comment was “a few scatter projects here and there.” “For the Amerindian youths, the investment of $200M was more than welcome. More than 800 youths gladly came on board to serve their communities…And, if you read the comments from the Hinterland Highlights the Toshaos spoke highly of the young people contributions,” she said. Sukhai said that in recent years Government’s intervention and support to Amerindian development continue to make a positive impact on the wellbeing of the more than 70,000
Amerindians countrywide. “This is not to say that there is nothing more to address regarding Guyana’s Indigenous peoples, far from it; the transition of Amerindian village economies is an ongoing process;…the granting of lands continues to progress; the need for increased access to secondary education continues to be addressed; improving health care and water access is expanding and the empowering of Amerindian youth is exploding; the cultural integration is strengthening and Amerindian leaders are refining their governance and administrative skills and have well defined goals for a sustainable approach to village developmental agenda,” she said. She congratulated her c o l l e a g u e M i n i s t e r D r. Ashni Singh and his dedicated team of planners and drafters of the Ministry of Finance for putting together the National Budget 2014, which she deems as pro poor. “I wish to recognize that the $220B Budget offers allocation of funds for the economic and productive sector which will further stimulate growth and expansion of our economy and complement the progress established over the years under the PPP/C Government,” Sukhai said. She said the Budget offers a practical set of measures that place much emphasis on meeting the needs of the people; including youths and Amerindians, and safety nets to support vulnerable groups, including pensioners and children.
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AFC condemns cheap blackmail trick by govt. They should give account for $44B spent on Skeldon - Nagamootoo The Alliance For Change (AFC) has lauded the work of the gold miners and rice farmers. However, the party strongly condemns the “cheap blackmail trick” government used in the Parliament on Monday last instead of accounting for the billions spent on the Skeldon Sugar Factory. Expressing this statement was the AFC’s Vice Chairman, Moses Nagamootoo during his presentation on the 2014 Budget. The Member of Parliament said that his party wished to extend its deepest appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the gold miners and rice farmers. “Gold miners took a knock from falling prices, but they are bouncing back. Last year and again, this year, Essequibo paddy producers have earned our admiration for protesting for affordable fertiliser and for fair and prompt prices for their paddy. I told them, and I repeat: only the squeaky wheels get the grease.” “There is no doubt that the hands of rice farmers feed us all, and they give life to our economy. But Government must not take the kudos, and the farmers get the cooscoos.” The Attorney at Law then said that he was hoping that Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, would have provided in his presentation, a response to the concerns of rice farmers. These included the price per tonne of paddy sold to Venezuela; the amount paid for shipping and to whom; the amounts discounted by the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) to process export papers, and
where this has gone; the amount going into a so-called social fund, and who benefitted to date, the quantity of fertilizers received through and under the PetroCaribe deal, and whether any proceeds have gone to Guyana Rice Producers’ Association, and in what amount. Moreover, Nagamootoo said that government laments about the garbage situation, but it has yet to table in the National Assembly the promised Solid Waste law that could deal comprehensively with the issue. His party is disappointed in the fact that the fishing industry is facing challenges, but the government has not brought the much promised regulations that would set standards for the fishing industry to be competitive, Nagamootoo said. “We also wish more could be done in job-creating sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and tourism. We also continue to demand more for wages, pensions, social assistance and for organizations that promote assistance to the vulnerable in the society.” “It is this principled and patriotic position that informed our support in 2012 and 2013 for the use of billions of taxpayers’ monies to bail out the sugar industry and the electricity sector, which are gasping for survival due to the incompetence of this post-Jagan minority government. “Our stand has been that sugar workers and electricity consumers must not suffer for the failure and bungling of this government.” As the conversation on
AFC’s Vice Chairman, Moses Nagamootoo the bitter sugar politics continues, Nagamootoo said that instead of Government giving an account of what it did with the $44 billion spent on the Skeldon factory and the $11 billion in bailout money, it came with a “new, cheap, blackmail trick. It opted for the race card. The PPP told its supporters that the opposition would be guilty of ethnic cleansing of Indian sugar workers if it did not dole out more billions in subsidies.” To this ‘repulsive move’ by Government he said, “Words have power, and as the world observes the 20th year after the ethnic cleansing in Rwanda, we must not use those words even to drive fear subliminally in this ethnically divided land. “Further, I say not.” The Member of Parliament said that his party offers partnership so that all members of the National Assembly are not caught in “time-wasting, interminable rancour and confrontation.” He insisted that the members of the House should labour instead for a “win-winsituation.”
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Kaieteur News
After two years of repairs…
Parika Health Centre finally opens
The newly refurbished Parika Backdam Health Centre After two years of being renovated at a cost of $2M, the Parika Backdam Health Centre is finally in operation. During the time it was nonfunctional, residents were being attended to by a Medex who utilized a part of the community primary school. The centre opened shortly after Kaieteur News highlighted the inconveniences faced by residents, and the reason behind the facility being closed for so long. Alliance for Change (AFC) Councilor in Region Three, Harry Narine Deokinanan said, that he finds it to be shameful that a building measuring 20 feet by 16 feet took two years to complete. Initially, the health centre, which served hundreds of Parika Backdam residents, was in a deplorable condition, forcing residents to seek media coverage. Repair works began only after Kaieteur News highlighted the condition of the facility in April 2012. Despite glaring sloppy works, Vice Chairman of the Region Three Health Committee is claiming that the facility was nonfunctional merely because the key to the building had been lost. But,
Councilor Deokinanan said that he finds this to be “more than a lame excuse.” Nonetheless, residents had told this publication that ever since the health centre was rewarded with a plaque for being able to administer the most doses of rotavirus vaccines in 2010, the building has not been maintained. Anand Singh, a resident of Parika, East Bank Essequibo, had told Kaieteur News that while the residents were angry at the deplorable condition of the health centre, they were even more annoyed at the fact that after two years, they are still unable to benefit from proper healthcare services. “Imagine taxpayers’ money was spent on that place, and still the people had to take their children to primary school for treatment and vaccines and so,” Singh said. He found it to be “excessively irritating” that a school compound was being used as a clinic. Singh had said that with the amount of problems plaguing Parika, he is forced to conclude that the regional administration is misusing resources. “I can’t understand how these people never have the money to do anything. We’re
suffering and they don’t care. Something fishy going on, because I can’t see how come we paying taxes and yet nothing ain’t fixing. We the people of this Region aren’t benefiting from anything much,” Singh had said. He pointed out, “Take for instance the Parika Backdam Road. We fed up making complaints about this thing. I spoke to several people from the regional office, but they haven’t been doing anything. Is only when we highlight certain things then they fix it, otherwise they don’t care at all, he added.” Following a Kaieteur News article highlighting the deplorable condition of the road, the Ministry of Agriculture said it commenced construction. However, Deokinanan told this newspaper yesterday that while the Agriculture Ministry officials have visited the road to take samples, works have not yet started. “Fixed” with just crusher run, the Parika Backdam road has always been a cause for worry, since it would usually deteriorate within a few months, creating a great deal of inconvenience and losses for residents, especially farmers.
Thursday April 10, 2014
Artificial Insemination lab to be advanced this year - Guyana looking to harvest semen From strictly storing and processing imported semen, Guyana is now looking to harvest its own. This is according to the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, who, in an invited comment yesterday, said that this will be another undertaking of the Artificial Insemination Laboratory located at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. The Minister in his deliberations during the 2014 Budget Debate noted that the facility will be upgraded and enhanced so as to take on the new task. Dr. Ramsammy said that the semen will be harvested from Guyana’s line of improved bulls. He added that the lab will also be expanded to accelerate the embryo transfer program. “The AI (artificial insemination) program allows us to improve breed through production of mixed breed, buy embryo transfers and involve production of pure breeds,” the Minister explained. As the Agriculture Ministry seeks to improve the livestock industry, Dr. Ramsammy recently told Kaieteur News that artificial insemination trials done in 2013 have recorded a 60% success. “This is a significant achievement for us, especially because the accomplishment globally is recorded at merely 40 per cent,” the Minister said during an interview. He highlighted that approximately 2500 artificial insemination trials were done in 2013. This is in addition to 63 successful embryo transplants. “We want to improve the success rate by at least 20 percent this year,” the Minister said yesterday. As part of its 2014 agenda, Dr. Ramsammy said that his Ministry, via the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) is looking
Twin calves born under the Artificial Insemination programme to have the artificial insemination trials kick up to about 3000. This, he pointed out, would be in addition to a projected 150 embryo transfers for 2014. This would see Guyanese scientists transferring embryos where local animals are used as surrogate mothers for high standard genetics. These procedures are currently being done at the AI Lab. The $28.2M facility was commissioned in October 2012, with the aim of producing animals with higher quality genetics. That would ultimately result in better quality and exportready meat, while ensuring food security. This initiative, the Minister had said, would also seek to protect Guyana’s status as the food basket of the Caribbean. Dr. Ramsammy explained that if Guyana wants to enhance its economy and ensure food safety, producing meat of better size and quality is vital. Thus, high quality genetics is the way forward, as it will enable scientists to produce better breeds of animals that are of international standards. Over the past year, there was an increase in the importation of animals for the purpose of creating better breeds. This would result in Guyana being more equipped and qualified to export its
meat rather than importing it, as is being done at a high cost. In a previous interview, Dr. Ramsammy had said that Guyana has a large import food bill and that it was to this end, that the artificial insemination initiative was set up under the Agriculture Diversification Programme (ADP). The ADP is there to establish services and institutions for a sustainable increase in the income derived from the export of nontraditional agricultural exports in the aquaculture, fruits and vegetables and livestock subsectors. Under this programme, 33 bulls were imported from Florida at a cost of $26M. These bulls are of the speciesBrahman, Beef Master and Brangus. Each cost roughly about $800,000, and are commonly used for breeding and meat purposes. The Agriculture Ministry has since included the importation of sheep for the same purpose. The semen of these animals is extracted, evaluated, preserved and processed at the AI laboratory. In 2013, as a result of the Artificial Insemination Programme, the GLDA welcomed six sets of twins. The facility was funded by the Government of Guyana, in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
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UG gets multi-million dollar donation of books Law as well as non-law publications, valued at more than $2million, were yesterday gifted to the University of Guyana (UG), compliments of former member of both the political and judicial fraternities, Dr. Mohamed Shahabuddeen. At a simple ceremony held in the foyer of the University’s library, the significant endowment was presented by Dr. Shahabuddeen’s son, Sieyf Shahabuddeen. Shahabuddeen, ahead of ceremonially handing over the publications, recounted his father ’s professional journey, which took him to sections of the globe including Rwanda and Yugoslavia. It was during his adult life, he disclosed, that Dr. Shahabuddeen was able to accumulate his collection of books. At 82 years of age, Dr. Shahabuddeen, currently resides in Canada but will be remembered for the prominent positions he held locally, including that of Attorney General. The recipient of the Order of Excellence, Order of Roraima and Cacique Crown of Honour awards, also
served a nine-year term as an eminent Judge of the International Court of Justice. According to Sieyf Shahabuddeen, “he has done his duty and this is the natural home for his collection of books and our hope is that students as well as members of the public can benefit (and) find them of interest...It gives me joy to make this presentation.” Previously, Sieyf Shahabuddeen donated a set of his father’s French novels, and another collection of books to the National Library. However, Dr. Shahabuddeen’s entire legal collection, among other publications, was left for the UG Library. “It is not going to any other country, it is not going to any other library but this library right here in Guyana and that is something he is very happy about and we as a family are very happy about,” added Sieyf Shahabuddeen. Speaking at yesterday’s ceremony, UG Librarian, Mrs Gwyneth George, posited that “a man’s collection of books reflects who he is or has been; it also say something of a son who sees it fit to donate the collection
Sieyf Shahabuddeen (centre) ceremonially hands over the books (some of which are displayed in background) to Deputy Vice Chancellor, Phillip DaSilva. Also in photo is Librarian, Mrs Gwyneth George of his father’s books to a depository where he feels it will be safe, and I trust we will keep these books very safe.” She disclosed that some
of his well known published works include: The Legal System of Guyana, which was published in 1973; Constitutional Development
in Guyana 1621 to 1978; Nationalisation of Guyana Bauxite and From Plantocracy to Nationalisation, 1983. The
latter publication, George noted, is one of the seminal publications of Dr. Shahabuddeen that is well used, not only in the legal field, but also in the field of history. “This collection of over 430 books covering Laws of Guyana, some of his personal work, perhaps the lesser known ones like the Roles of Lawyers in developing Guyana, some Caribbean Fiction and some politics is estimated at over G$2 million and this is just a preliminary estimate , ” George disclosed. In fact, an appreciative George noted that “I am personally touched and grateful to Sieyf for thinking of the University of Guyana Library at this time, when what is being said of UG is not always very flattering, to deposit his father’s collection.” According to Deputy Vice Chancellor, Phillip DaSilva, not only is the endowment a special gesture, but it comes at a time when UG is celebrating 50 years of existence. “It is fitting for us to receive a gift, and a gift of this magnitude,” he added.
Public Service Union seeks 30 percent wage increase in 2014
Public workers downed tools last year in protest of “arbitrary” wage increase While the Public Service Ministry has mentioned discussions between the Government and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) for a “proper formula for workers’ wages,” the GPSU is calling for 30 percent increase in wages and salaries for 2014. Public Service Minister Jennifer Westford in her Budget debate presentation recently stated that the Administration is in talks with the workers’ union and mentioned that the collective bargaining mechanism had been activated. She told Kaieteur News yesterday that hopes are high that the two sides can come up with decisions that would be mutually favourable. Westford said discussions have been cordial and talks seem to be going smoothly. However, GPSU’s Senior Industrial Officer Dennis English says that no discussions have been held
with the Union. He explained that since the meeting that was held in February, there has been no other discussion with the Administration. He explained that every year the Union would submit their proposals for the Budget, which would include recommendations on public wages, but the February meeting did not entail any discussions for increases for 2014; “and it would therefore be untrue to say that the Government is in discussions with the Union over wages and salaries.” English submitted that the February meeting dealt specifically with outstanding matters which included personal issues facing workers and other general matters such as working conditions and outstanding wages. The proposals that were distributed to the Government, English said involved 25 percent for last
year, 30 percent for this year and 35 for next year. Although the meeting was initiated by Government, none of the proposals has been implemented by the Administration, English said. He also pointed out that there was no reply on what was submitted for this year’s Budget. The union also requested that the income tax threshold be increased by $100,000. English told the newspaper that the Union is adamant on its displeasure with Government’s
continued imposition of increases on public workers without the agreed collective bargaining mechanism. He said the Union is still involved in its fanning out exercise which will determine the way forward on handling the matter. Last year, public servants launched mass protests across the country against the imposition of five percent wage increase. The Union had promised to continue the protest in 2014. Opposition parties; Alliance
for Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) have already highlighted their intent to scrutinize sums that are being allocated to public workers. Many questions were raised when it was revealed that the money allocated to public
workers was not expended for what it was intended. Finance Minister Ashni Singh explained that the allocations for public workers’ increases were found, but failed to provide a paper trail as was requested by the Opposition parties and the workers’ Union.
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Thursday April 10, 2014
Guyana taking advantage of education to alleviate poverty - insists Manickchand “Education is the one thing that will see us alleviate poverty surely,” said Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, as she with conviction told the National Assembly on Monday that the 2014 National Budget is designed to continue Guyana’s movement in the poverty-alleviation direction. She pointed out with certainty that, “we can be sure that if we invest in our people through education, that would be an investment in Guyana, and we have matched our commitment by tangible budgetary allocation.” In chronicling the growth in education Guyana has seen over the years, Manickchand recalled that even with a much smaller Budget in 1992, five per cent
City Hall tells Govt ... The Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has slammed the government over statements which accuse the agency of being against the $500,000 the government has allocated for the Georgetown cleanup, but was not given to the Council. Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green told Kaieteur News that the government could keep its money, but that it needs to consult with the Council. Chase- Green reiterated that the government continues to disregard the Council and citizens in the
was allocated to education. She noted that with a Budget that has increased substantially over the years, Government has been expending considerably in education with last year seeing in excess of 15.9 per cent being spent. “There can be no sector better than education that could demonstrate tangibly the growth over the years that the PPP/C (People’s Progressive Party/Civic) has been in office,” said the Minister. She alluded to the fact that investments in education have been instrumental in improved results characterised by 21 per cent of students performing laudably at the CSEC examination in 1990 and by
1995 “with the commitment to the people of this country and the necessary allocation in the Budget we had seen a nine per cent increase...” By 2000, Manickchand said that the outstanding performers amounted to 46 per cent and by 2005, she added that, that percentage had climbed to 60 and further still to 66 by 2010. “...With money comes growth; growth means our children are doing better. It means our children are more prepared for the world tomorrow; it means our children are more prepared, not only to develop Guyana, but to contribute to this earth, wherever they may find themselves in this small global village we live in,” asserted a passionate Manickchand. She went on to elaborate
on the performances seen over the years, although the Parliamentary Opposition, save its Chief Whip, Amna Ally, had by then unceremoniously exited the House. According to the Minister, in 1990 there were 16.8 per cent of the student population passing Mathematics even as she stressed that 24 per cent had passed by 2002, while in 2010 that percentage had moved to 34 per cent. “With investment comes growth, with our love for people comes their better preparation to meet the challenges of the world,” said the Minister as she continued her sermon of improved pass rates. Performances in the subject area of English in 1990, she said, saw 13.36 per
cent passes, with the pass rate notably climbing to 25.8 per cent by 2000. The pass rate, the Minister said, had soared considerably by 2010 to 59.16 per cent. “You give people goodness, you invest in the people of this country and you will see them and their children doing better...but before we can invest you have to have a vision of where Guyana wants to go and then careful management and plotting and planning to get us there....,” said the Minister as she underscored that the Government side has shown that it is capable of doing such. Turning her attention to the Budget of last year, Manickchand recalled that 40 per cent was allocated and expended in the social sector including: Housing, Education, Health and Human Services even as she added
“...that is the kind of allocation that went to the people of Guyana last year through the Budget.” Of the 40 per cent allocated to the social sector last year, Manickchand reiterated that “15.9 per cent of that alone was spent on educating our nation’s children...giving them a higher quality education, providing meals and helping their parents outfit them for school, providing training for teachers to put in front of the classrooms, providing (text) books and exercise books and the other things that are necessary for children.” In fact, it is the conviction of the Education Minister that growth has been realised and sustained since the PPP has embraced an ideology that has been evident in every single policy and every single Budget from 1992, that education is the key to alleviating poverty.
‘Keep your money, consult with the Council’ Teens face court for decision-making process, whilst they continue to micromanage the capital. She is adamant that the money allocated for Georgetown should not be a one off exercise with no maintenance plan. Rohee had told the media last week that the Council will not be getting the money designated for the city, because the Mayor has an established track record for mismanaging the council and its funds. He said that under Mayor Hamilton Green’s tenure, “Georgetown has become a garbage city as the
Mayor continues to mismanage the Council and gobble up the city’s resources.” He said, “The Mayor and his sidekick Deputy Mayor, Patricia Chase-Green, can learn an invaluable lesson on how to manage and run an effective local democratic organ from other PPP/C administered municipalities as well as the wider Caribbean.” Rohee said, also, that he has urged the government against putting the budgeted $500 M in the hands of the Mayor and Councilors “especially in view of their sordid fraudulent record of mismanagement and unaccountability at City Hall.” He recommended that the cleanup campaign be outsourced. The Deputy
seawall stick-up
Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green Mayor is adamant, however, that the city does not need another cleanup campaign. “It requires a comprehensive plan to restore the health of (continued on page 20)
Two teenage boys who allegedly mugged two schoolgirls on the city seawalls a few days ago, and made off with their cellular phones and other items, were yesterday charged and remanded to prison after they appeared before a city Magistrate. The Georgetown Magistrates’ Court heard that the 16-year-old boys accosted, brandished a knife and cut one of their victims before stealing their property on March 30, last. The girls were reportedly sitting on the seawall in the Kingston area when the two teenagers and two others rode up on a pedal cycle and pulled a knife on them.
State Prosecutor, Corporal Seon Blackman explained that the teenage boys attacked the girls, and relieved them of the items worth $206,500 and rode away. The matter was reported and seven days after the incident the victims noticed the two accused on the said seawalls and alerted the police. They were arrested and subsequent investigations led to the charge being instituted against them. The teens were yesterday arraigned and remanded by Magistrate Faith McGusty. They pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them. The case will be called again on April 14.
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Commitment is still there for the New River Triangle Muri Project - says Robert Persaud Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Robert Persaud, during the National 2 0 1 4 B u d g e t Debate, said the controversial New River Triangle Muri project is an avenue for diversification from gold to other minerals. Persaud spoke among other things to the critical nature of the Natural Resources and Environment sector towards economic growth and fostering stability. He praised small and
medium scale gold miners who he said were responsible for Guyana achieving 481,000 ounces of gold last year. Persaud spoke also to the need for diversification of Guyana from gold when he referred to the public debate of the Muri project and the granting of the Permission for Geographical and Geophysical Surveys (PGGS) in the New River Area. He said that much has been said about that, “but the underling objective of that
and other efforts is for us to understand what it is we have.” According to Persaud, the resources that “we have and the focus of that particular PGGS were for us to develop rare earth elements” which he posited as being a very scarce commodity. “It was in pursuit of diversification and an understanding of the geological make up and resources that we have
embarked on that.” The Natural Resources Minister further said that the commitment is still there for the project. “When we speak now to our miners locally and even when we have foreign investors, it is about ensuring that we make maximum use and in that regard we continue to work not only with operators, persons who have prospecting licence but also with our partners be it the United States, Canadians, the
Government continues to boast about the “biggest budget” By Latoya Giles
Despite Government’s boast about this year’s budget being the largest ever, Guyana still remains that second poorest country in Caricom according to the World Bank’s 2014 report. This statement was made by Deputy Speaker Mr. Basil Williams during his budget presentation on Tuesday. According to Williams, Guyana still has the lowest GDP per capita ranking in Caricom. Williams told the National Assembly that some 36.1 percent of Guyanese are poor and live below the poverty line, while another 40,000 persons are unemployed, according to the US State Department report of 2013. “When we factor in suicides, murders, domestic violence and a high crime rate…Guyana is a modern purgatory,” Williams said. Williams said that the term “high growth rate” is meaningless to the majority of the Guyanese people. Williams said that even though his party had welcomed the recent increase of judges to 20, it does not amount to the perfect ratio of judge per population. He said that the appointment must be complemented by transparency in the manner of appointing judges in general and those puisne judges. Williams argued that there must be adequate facilities including legal assistants, adequate remuneration, tax free salaries and/or increased salaries. He noted that the judiciary must see a fully constituted Judicial Service, the appointment of a Commonwealth High Court or Court of Appeal by the President after meaningful consultation with the Leader of the Opposition. Williams said that APNU welcomes the introduction of voice recording capacity in
- but Guyana is still the second poorest country in Caricom - Basil Williams the court system. However, Williams said that it was inexplicable why its introduction should be confined to the civil courts, when it’s an uncontroverted fact that in the criminal assizes the importance of capturing every word of a witness cannot be over emphasized or the need for speedy trials. According to Williams, APNU has recommended that the voice recording capacity be forthwith installed in the criminal assizes. Williams said that since some $1.8B is voted to consolidate the alleged advances already made within the justice sector; perhaps some of that money will make the family court operational. THE RODNEY COI…. Williams added that it was unfortunate that the constitution of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry has been attended by duress. He said that APNU recognizes the right of Mrs. Patricia Rodney to have closure with respect to her husband’s death. However, Williams said that they do not accept that she has a role in determining the formation and operation of the COI. He said that his party regards this as the sole preserve of the persons in whom parliament has reposed this power. Williams noted that his party sees the acceptance of the advice from Mrs. Rodney to exclude the WPA and PNC from being consulted on the setting up of the inquiry as an abdication of the responsibility given the COI Act. UG LAW STUDENTS …. Williams posited that it
was not enough for the government to say that it has set up a team to look at the question of a local law school for Guyanese law graduates of the University of Guyana. He said that Government had dropped the ball some years ago when the same issue had surfaced as a result of its own myopic policies. Williams noted that they cannot continue to have law students uncertain about their future. He said that APNU is calling on Government to find a long term solution to the country’s law students for the access to a law school accredited by the council of legal education. The issue of University of Guyana law graduates
being granted placement at the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago had come up for discussion at the CARICOM heads of Government meeting recently. Guyana had raised issues over a move that would not guarantee Guyanese students automatic placement at the Law School. Attorney General Anil Nandlall had said that Government will spare no effort in resolving the recent decision of the University of the West Indies’ (UWI) Council for Legal Education to not automatically place 25 University of Guyana law graduates at the Hugh Wooding Law School.
Chileans, the Chinese and other friendly government’s in terms of giving us support so that we can have a comprehensive and updated geological map.” He also said that the impetus in that regard is necessary to “understand and know our resources”. This would allow Guyana to peruse diversification and engage in sensible mining to reduce the impact it would have on the environment. Persaud then called for more cohesion between the combined opposition and government where matters of Territorial Sovereignty are concerned. He used the forcible removal of the seismic vessel by the Venezuelan Navy as an example. According to Persaud, just recently through the Ministry, “we have had to protest and sometimes the statements that we make and the mix signals that we send in our country, they emboldened others outside, thus we have to withdraw.” He said that they had to withdraw their participation in an oil and gas conference that Suriname was proposing to hold in June. “The reason why we withdrew was because they were circulating documents and as part of the Suriname map they had the New River Triangle area included.” Persaud added, “We have to constantly and consistently and stridently take a unified stand on our territory but also on the development of our natural
resources and the development of all possibilities within our 83,000 square miles. “We must not in any way suggest we are surrendering or we are as it were being ambivalent on this particular issue.” There was a raging debate publicly over the Natural Resources Minister granting to private company, Muri Brazil Venture Incorporated, permission for exploration and subsequent prospecting of the sensitive New River Triangle area under the PGGS granted by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). However, plans to work the disputed area reached a standstill when several independent bodies expressed against the foreignowned company having rights to the area. Moreover, critics were loud about the apparent secrecy surrounding the deal which saw Muri being able to survey some 2.2 million acres of untouched forest which was in a geographically sensitive area. Even GGMC said that it had advised against the company getting the PGGS. It was further stated that the agency had been instructed to give the go-ahead to Muri. Muri has since pulled out of the project citing that although the process was legal and transparent, there was a lot of “hostility to this proposed survey by persons and agencies which are fostering an adverse investment climate in Guyana.”
Crewmen of quarantined vessel return home
Eight of the 10 Guyanese crewmen who were quarantined with their ship in St. Lucia following the death of one of their colleagues on board, has returned home. According to the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), MV Lady Zai returned on Monday. They were all
examined by the Health Authorities in Saint Lucia and given clearance to sail. Lady Zai left Guyana on March 9, 2014 for St Lucia with ten crew members. However, during the voyage one crew member, Lilkumar, died while another had fallen ill and was hospitalised in St Lucia. The quarantined vessel
was allowed to leave on March 17, after it was sanitized in accordance with regulations. It then called at Vieux Fort, St Lucia; Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago; and Curacao where it discharged and subsequently loaded cargo for Guyana. The Health Authorities in
Saint Lucia later confirmed that the Guyanese crew member died from Bronchopneumonia and the sick crew member was stricken by the same illness. Officials from MARAD visited the Captain and crew at the John Fernandes Wharf as part of their investigations into the incident.
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Budget is for some A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) for Region Three, John Adams, has pronounced on the 2014 budget. He described it as a 2014 budget under the theme “making life better for some Guyanese” and not all. According to Adams, the 2014 Budget makes very little provision for the ordinary public servants. He said that although there are no provisions within the budget for new taxes, the ordinary person will continue to struggle to provide a good life for his or her family due to the high cost of living. He said that the new $10,000 education grant for every child cannot suffice for the small incomers, it will give more to those who already have “since the child whose parents can afford will get the same benefit for the child whose parents can’t afford and is struggling to send him or her to school.” He said it would have been better if a feasibility study was conducted so the disadvantaged could have benefited from more than what is being given. Adams questioned what is being considered for the
nurses, the teachers, the men and women in uniform and the sweeper cleaners. “They too desperately need an increase in salaries to make ends meet, a $10,000 non taxable grant on their wages and salaries would’ve been a good start in an effort to alleviate the hardships they face.” He said that the Finance Minister and other Ministers should park their vehicles occasionally and go to the market places and the bus parks and hear the plight of the public servants. They would be better equipped to make informed decisions when it comes to salaries for the “down trodden public servants.” According to Adams there is very little for human development, “the most important resource of any country” in budget 2014. He said that even though billions of dollars have been allocated to the health sector one would be left in shock when visiting these medical institutions. He said that only a few weeks ago the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) was short of some basic drugs needed to treat patients. He reasoned that “if the WDRH does not have
medicine then it is logical that there would be no medical supplies at Leonora, at Wakenaam and at all the other health centers on the Coast and in the Region.” The APNU Member of Parliament explained that the social services committee of the tenth Parliament visited Mahaicony Hospital in March and found a shortage of insulin. “It begs the question if we spend so much money on drugs, how is it then that there is a shortage? Maybe it is time to zero in on the procurement process associated with drugs purchases for patient care.” Adams said that the health institutions continue to be short of medical doctors and critical staff “although the government boasts of training umpteen doctors and nurses, one cannot help but wonder are we training health sector professionals for export?” According to Adams the sugar industry is in rapid decline and despite the “astronomical” amount of monies being pumped into the sector it continues
‘Keep your money, consult ... From page 14 the city and to advance its interests.” She said that she is even more concerned about the blatant disregard for the Council which would be most informed about what the city needs. This, she said, is why discussions and consultations are necessary for the campaign to achieve its objectives. “At City Hall our challenge is not to clean the city but to keep it clean. Therefore, the city needs more than clean up and ‘Pick it up’ campaigns.” She continued that from the looks of things no thought was given to sustaining the city, “otherwise $500 million of taxpayers’ money would be wasted, in another one-off campaign to clean the streets of the capital.” Chase-Green added that citizens were not involved in the decision-making process
and therefore, “they are not obliged to participate or cooperate with the campaign. The success of such a campaign depends heavily on the cooperation of residents. “In a genuine democracy, that money would have been given to the city with the necessary checks and balances for proper accountability.” In relation to Rohee’s statement on the Mayor’s mismanagement, ChaseGreen said that “the Mayor and Councilors are policy makers. They do not handle cash or sign off cheques; the council’s finances are managed and expended by the Administration. “If the various reports of the council are checked, it would be noticed that, councilors, are the ones who initiate all the inquiries into mismanagement of council’s resources by the Administration. Councilors were never accused of misappropriation of council’s
funds.” Chase-Green charged that the government “is obsessed with micro- managing the City Council as they are doing in those NDCS where they have crudely replaced duly elected local bodies with hand-picked Interim Management Committees. “But even those committees are experiencing great difficulties; flooding, improper disposal and inadequate collection of their waste; untidy parapets and other very serious public health problems. So the challenges we face in the city are not unique to Georgetown; they are countrywide.” The Deputy Mayor reiterated that an assessment showed years ago that it would take over a billion dollars to vitalize our drainage and pumps systems in the city alone; it is therefore wise to get all parties involved, she urged.
Driver escapes after truck falls ... From page 15 and Harbours Department, in a statement of the incident, said that a loaded cargo truck went overboard approximately 02:15 a.m. while off-loading operations were being carried out on MV Kanawan at Supenaam Stelling. The incident has halted operations.
“Currently, efforts are being made by the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) to have the truck salvaged in an effort to expedite the resumption of off loading operations.” Approximately, 20 trucks were left on board the vessel. “There were no injuries or casualties.
MARAD investigators, T&HD engineers and salvagers are on site,” the department said. Wednesday's incident is a reminder of 2010 when John Walcott's truck fell overboard while reversing. To date, Walcott said, Transport and Harbors has not compensated him.
Thursday April 10, 2014
- says Region Three MP
to fall short on its targets. The added injection of billions of dollars he said is not the answer to GuySuCo (Guyana Sugar Corporation) woes “for until we have the right kind of management GuySuCo will continue to go to waste.” He explained that persons used to flock GuySuCo for jobs and pride themselves in working in such as institution but today this is no longer the case, in fact he said that due to inefficient administration many persons attached to the institution are now leaving. He said that if government does not act GuySuco “will be a corporation we once had.” Adams then spoke to rice which he outlined is the agriculture crop of Region 3 and said that rice farmers are experiencing severe
constraints within that sector. “On the day the budget was presented to this National Assembly dozens of farmers came from Region Two out of disgust to protest against the government for the hardships they are experiencing as a result of the clueless manner the state is managing the rice sector. Rice farmers throughout our country are in dire need of a better staking industry by way of technical and economical support.” He then spoke to education in Region Three which he said was not without its challenges even though new buildings are being built for schools there. According to Adams, “We continue to see in the 2014 budget as in previous budgets, the machinations that will result in a wanton waste of money while simultaneously enhancing
APNU MP John Adams the gravy train of political associates for Government. This historical revelation of an obvious absence for value for money regarding several road projects will intensify and the trend of work not being done to specification resulting in contractors becoming wealthier on the backs of the taxpayers.”
Social Sector gets one third of 2014 budget Guyana’s social sector was allocated one third of this year ’s $220B National Budget. Emphasis has been placed on social programmes for the vulnerable and at risk populations, youths, the elderly, women and children. This is according to Jennifer Webster, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, during her recent Budget debate presentation in the National Assembly. “Through a menu of targeted interventions, the ordinary Guyanese man or woman will benefit…This PPP/C Government has demonstrated over the past years, through our policies and programmes, continued commitment to better the lives of all Guyanese,” she said. According to Webster, this year the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security will continue to focus on the provision of human services through prevention, as well as remedial work and other targeted interventions for vulnerable groups. She reflected that in 2013, the Child Care and Protection Agency worked diligently and prevented 2,432 children from being separated from their families, while 519 children were removed from abusive situations. As such, Government has seen the need to support the placement of children within the family settings, with placement in institutional care as a preferred option. Therefore, Government will continue to provide care
Jennifer Webster, Human Services Minister options for children; training and support for parents to prevent the unnecessary separation of children through parenting initiatives; conduct effective monitoring of children placed in home care; and undertake mental health and therapeutic services for affected children and their families, to name a few initiatives. Webster said it is important to recognize that no single agency or organization working in isolation can address these demands successfully without interagency collaboration between Government and its partners. “Vulnerable children and their families do require a number of services…The pooling of resources, skills and coordination of care services must be seen in a positive manner for the purpose of inter-dependent
problem-solving which focuses on improving services to children and their families,” she said. She assured that the Child Care and Protection Agency will work to ensure increased collaboration with other key Governmental and Non-Governmental agencies. To this end, the sum of $382.5M was budgeted for the delivery of effective Child Care and Protection Services. The Minister noted that it is Government’s intention to promote foster care as an alternative care option. Training would be conducted in all 10 Administrative Regions for approximately 2,000 parents. Meanwhile, greater emphasis will be placed on monitoring the 19 privately managed children’s homes in Guyana to ensure operations are in accordance with the minimum operational standards and guidelines in place. “Mr. Speaker, towards the end of 2013, three juveniles from a children’s home in Region Six were charged for wandering. There was a lot of criticism in the press about the maltreatment of these three girls. As Minister of Human Services and Social Security, I appointed a team of competent persons to undertake an inquiry into this incident. The Committee has since submitted its findings along with its recommendations with a comprehensive report,” she said.
Thursday April 10, 2014
2014 Budget debate… Government’s chief whip, Gail Teixeira is of the firm belief that members of the Opposition suffer from tunnel vision. The Member of Parliament said that the Opposition is only seeking to have some of the immediate needs of the people met without giving due consideration and support to projects that promote long term development of the country. Teixeira said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other bodies have recognized Guyana for making prudent fiscal and financial management in relation to the economy of the country and the 2014 Budget has again delivered on a series of transformative programmes and projects for a better Guyana for everyone. She contended that while the members of the Opposition may refer to the Budget as a “repair and maintenance Budget,” they too have proposed recommendations which lack vision. The Parliamentarian said that throughout the debates she has made an observation. “It is small world view versus the big world view.” She said, “The small world view seems to be able to concentrate on the immediate needs such as the provision of goods and services and so forth. Certainly, we could forever complain about the air services etc. but unless we
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Opposition suffers from tunnel vision - Teixeira
Government’s Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira have a big world view, we cannot solve these problems. The Amaila Falls hydro project, the Mazaruni hydro development project, CJIA expansion project, the Linden to Lethem road, other new roads and highways, these take five years of preparation before anything is built. We have to be looking at least ten years up the road. The conflict and tension within any Government is the issue between delivering the immediate needs of the people and at the same time, looking on the horizon and seeing how you can solve problems while you keep the society going and developing, but the other side (the Opposition) seems to not want the big projects.” Teixeira alluded to the fact that Shadow Minister of Education, Amna Ally of “A Partnership for National Unity”, had said, “We don’t
want projects; just fix the schools.” This, Teixeira classified as a typical case of “small world vision.” She added, “I have listened to every speaker and I truly believe that the Opposition wants a repair and maintenance Budget and not a vision for a better Guyana.” The Parliamentarian said that not one speaker from the Opposition’s side recommended a solution for the ever growing demand for energy as the country becomes more modern. She added that instead of speaking to how certain areas can be improved and providing “vision based solutions” the Opposition presented their woes. Teixeira said that she waited for APNU’s Financial Spokesman Carl Greenidge, being an older politician, to present to the Parliament his vision for Guyana, but again, “he came with the same mantra; reduce VAT, and Berbice bridge fees, increase salaries, and old age pensions, but he did not give one new idea for a new venture for his country or his people.” “I will just use a classical tale of how absurd people could get on in this House about how there were only 20 rolls of toilet paper in the ward of the hospital. This is a Budget for the future and that could be done at a later time in a question to the relevant Minister. I submit that the Opposition speakers seem to have suffered from some level of tunnel vision.” She continued, “The
Three more Magistrates’ courts to be completed shortly Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, has assured that through the many Government initiatives and interventions, the Judiciary is independent and efficient. All Guyanese, irrespective of where they are located or, their social and financial standing, have equal rights to justice. “We are of the unshakable view that these are indispensable prerequisites to the economic development and social progress which our people aspire to enjoy,” he told the National Assembly. The Legal Affairs Minister said that it is for these reasons, the administration continues to invest heavily in the Justice Sector, having recognised that while it does not contribute directly to the GDP, as the other productive sectors, this sector is largely responsible for law and order. Minister Nandlall added that adherence to the rule of law, constitutional and democratic governance, and indeed the glue that keeps society and civilisation as we know it, together. “Without it, neither production will take place, nor civility, as we know it, will exist.” Meanwhile it was noted that since the 2013 budget presentation significant strides have been made in this sector. Some of the developments include the conclusion of the compilation of the Revised Laws of Guyana, which was done after a 34-year hiatus.
In addition, over the last two years, a number of Courts were either completely refurbished or new buildings were constructed. These include the High Courts of Georgetown and New Amsterdam, the Court of Appeal and Magistrates’ Courts at Whim, New Amsterdam, Sisters Village, Reliance, Mibicuri, Georgetown, Leonora, and Wales. It must also be noted that almost all courtrooms in the High Court, both in Georgetown and New Amsterdam, are fully air conditioned for the first time in the history of this country. Within a few weeks, the Magistrates’ Courts at Christianburg, Wismar, and Lethem will be completed. These new buildings have also been furnished with residential quarters for the Magistrates. However, for the Court at Wismar, a new office for the Magistrate’s Clerk will be established so that persons within the newly created Magisterial District of Region Ten will not have to travel all the way to Vreeden-Hoop Magistrate’s Court to transact their business. Historically, that court fell under the Magisterial District of West Demerara, but that will now change. Additionally 18 laptops were purchased and distributed to the judges of the Court of Appeal, and the High Court with the expectation, that they will assist in the speedy writing up of decisions.
Opposition cannot ignore that life has changed in Guyana. Poverty has been reduced and will continue to be reduced under the PPP Government. Yes, we can deliver more goods and services efficiently, but does the Opposition have any suggestions?” “You talk about partnership but it’s all a bunch of fluff because you don’t come to us…you don’t sit with us. As a Government we want the betterment of the
people. Children in all communities have access to the same things and you think that is done by the flick of a magic wand or because you say so? The days of children pushing carts with drums of water miles up the road and skipping school are over... The days of 71 percent of pregnant women being anaemic are over; the days when Amerindian children couldn’t access secondary education are over. When 13,
000 solar units are given over, it radically changes their lives. The children can do their homework as opposed to times before,” she told the House. The Member of Parliament then implored the Opposition to consult with an optometrist for their “tunnel vision” as she continued to present the House with statistics which she claims show that there has been improvement in social services under the PPP Government.
Man on trial for stepson’s murder A mixed 12-member jury heard the testimony of Ramkumarie Manbahal, the mother of murder victim, Lakhram Persaud, when the trial of 75-year-old Albert Andries continued in the High Court before Justice Dawn Gregory on Tuesday. Andries is facing the court for Persaud’s murder, which occurred on July 27, 2012 at Enterprise, East Coast Demerara. He reportedly stabbed Persaud, who was his stepson at the time. The incident reportedly took place at Manbahal’s Lincoln Street, Enterprise, East Coast Demerara residence. Persaud, called ‘Bojo’, was allegedly stabbed twice in the chest by his stepfather. The 75-year-old accused is said to be ailing. He is said to be experiencing difficulties walking. He allegedly suffered a stroke a few years ago. He pleaded not guilty to the crime when the trial commenced at the High Court. Andries is being represented by Attorney-atLaw Sonia Parag, while State Prosecutors include Attorneys-
-Victim’s mother tells court, son was attacked by accused at-Law, Mercedes Thompson and Lloyd Mark Conway. At the substantive trial, before the voir dire began, evidence was led to show that the accused was the stepfather of the deceased. The accused was arrested and charged with murder following an argument which he had with his stepson which ended with the 34-year-old man, being fatally injured. Yesterday, the witness told the court that she was in ‘a visiting relationship’ with Andries, when he stabbed her son to death. The woman claimed that on the night of the incident, she awoke to her son’s voice calling from outside her twostorey home. “He wanted to come inside.” Manbahal said that she asked the accused to open the door for her son since she was already tucked in bed and couldn’t move immediately. The woman however, claimed that when
she came downstairs, she saw the accused choking her son. “When he open de door, like de boy go fuh wash he face in de bathroom and he (Andries) go behind de boy. Me run behind am and me say ‘Ow, ow Albert nah do dat’. “He say, ‘Me go kill am’ and throw me down and me nah able. He grab meh son and he bring am till outside by de fridge and he stab am,” Manbahal recalled. The woman claimed that she lost consciousness during the time of the altercation between the deceased and her son. Several police witnesses have since testified in the trial. Additional witnesses are to be called.
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Kaieteur News
PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale.Call:6275416
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Spare for washing machine, microwaves,fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc call: 225-9032, 647-2943 Live/pluck chicken call: 6504421, 220-9203 Plywood - All Sizes @ B. Sooklall, High Street, Opposite Carnegie School. Shop Grade $1909 per –Tel: 621-1979 Honda CRV – Price: $1.8M negotiable – Contact:6981485, 609-8235 Pure Rottweiler Pups Call:672-6402 Clean garden earth, also Bobcat & Excavator rentals – Tel:626-7127
FOR SALE Toyota Forklift - Excellent condition, 4,000lbs capacity, 117" Lift, Solid Wheels, Automatic Transmission, 4 Cylinder LPG Motor. Call: 604-6108. TAXI SERVICE IN OPERATION - TEL: 621-0400 One Perkins 6-Cylinder, 1Perkins 4236, 1 Berkeley 8-6 Pressure pump, 1 Cummings 6-cylinders, 1–Perkins Roll Royce 330 HP – Tel:650-5040 One boat & Ice-box: 50ft in length, 9ft in width, 6ft in depth. Price negotiable. Call:234-0401 or 675-3985 Red Honda 250 Twister motorcycle – Contact:6713533; 681-2217 Brand new 60" Samsung LED with 3D smart TV. Interested person - Call: 623-1615
Double Lot with house - Tel: 220-9961 Two Storey concrete building. Price$32M, E.C.D. Call:661-9431 1 newly built 2-storey concrete house @ Canal No # 2 Belle West - Tel:615-3333; 648-9428 Property at Third Street, East Meten- Meer-Zorg W.C.D – Contact: 277-3743 or 6620773. Price is negotiable. Two Storey concrete & timber building with three bedrooms at Parika - Tel: 660-3118 House & land, double lot @ New Rd, Vreed-En-Hoop W.C.D. Serious enquiries only. Contact Rock Star Blocks Yard:269-1406; 6179230 Vacant corner lot 58"X30" @ Garnette & Republic Streets, Newton Kitty – Tel:645-0616
Pit-bull Pups – Call:649-4135 or 692-8633
Thursday April 10, 2014
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 House in Diamond/Grove Tel:692-8513 House at Lot 109 Block AA Eccles Fully Furnished with A/C, 4 rooms, yard space. Good Price. Call:671-7687; 622-2531 Two Bedrooms lower flat apartment, one month’s security - $38,000 per month @ Paradise Public Rd, E.C.D Contact: 625-9939; 672-2677 One 2 bedroom apartment at Triumph Village, Agriculture Road, ECD – Call:220-7937, 625-5257 One upper flat @ 6th Street Cummings Lodge ECD - Call: 622-3580 One bottom flat apartment at Enmore, E.C.D - $35,000 monthly - Call: 677-1495 Vacant one bedroom self contained apartment, Newtown Kitty - Tel:2275985 (from 5pm)
Plough - New 2 pan dish plough; Made in India; excellent quality. $220,000 (neg). Call257-0212or628-8487. DAF Engines, Cummings engine, axles, springs, gear boxes, etc - Contact:6159332; 641-0932;695-0023 Newly refurbished, threeseater suite – Tel:616-6060 For used TM 6x6, back dry shaft – Call:648-2413 Land with foundation, Curb walls, infill and columns @ Tuschen, Middle Income, H/Scheme E.B.E - $7M – Call:682-7220; 602-0268 One Kawasaki 2750 CBR – price: $1.3 negotiable, documents included, owner leaving country – Contact: 695-6634/219-0494 for more information. Premio – Price: $2.5M, Carina AT212 – Price: $2M. Tel:226-5473
EDUCATIONAL Practical Electronic courses begining 7th April @ Abdol Electronics - Tel: 226-6551; 225-0391 Foundations of Nursing Courses in First Aid and Child Care. Telephone:692-2063, 613-0803 or 685-9095 Enrol at Caribbean First Class Kindergarten – Grade 6. After school classes and reading programs available Tel: 6847403 Kids Easter Computer Classes. Age 6 to 14, $3,000 3weeks @ Micrographics Te c h n o l o g y Vr e e d - E n Hoop Call: 264-3057 9 Courses, Diploma in Computer Studies - $35,000 @ Micrographics Technology, Vreed-En-Hoop- Call:2643057 (Individual Teaching) Earn a Certificate in Cosmetology Courses, full courses or half courses. Classes begin April 28th Call:673-5794, 648-1644
Parts by order: Tundra, Titan, Tacoma F-150 - Tel:226-5473 Wardrobe, desk, T.V, gas bottles, divider, vases, beds, chairs, table, etc. Call: 226-2284
Ultravoilet Driving School @ 106 Brickdam. 25% discount – Contact:2312372;602-2583; 6584015 Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel:644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 Alleyne’s Professional Driving School @ 651 East Ruimveldt, Best Prices Call :226-9181; 613-0223; 668-9331
MASSAGE The Gents Spa: Deep tissue, Swedish massages, sport massage, aromatherapy, body scrubs Call:657-5979 Neisha’s Massage Service – Tel:674-8147
TO LET Mature Christian working couples with no children, one bedroom apartment: Parking, telephone, water conveniences - $30,000 – Contact:623-8759, 218-3463 Wings Two bedrooms apartment - Tel: 643-1131; 225-3234
CAR RENTAL Cars - $6,000.00 per day - Tel: 694-7817 or 668-0306
LAND FOR SALE
Three Acres of land at Parika Backdam, E.B.E - Call:6174837 Promising mining blocks, already prospected - Tel: 6839910 La Parafaite HarmoniePrices:$1.2M, $1.4M,$1.6M, Tuschen- $3.2M, Herstelling (110ftX58ft) - $4.5M (high income) -Tel: 675-7292,218-5591
Nail Technology & Hair care courses @ Beautopia, also available Brazilian, Indian, Malaysian & Peruvian Virgin Hair – Call:604-3002 or 6698477
VACANCY One Trainee refrigeration A/ C Technician – Tel:231-2655 24 Hour East Coast Guy-oil needs night pump attendants, salesgirl & office assistant- Call: 670-8893/ 6959880/ 684-2838 Farm workers to work on fruit farm - Tel:265-3586 Garden maintenance team vacancy, hard working, punctual, outdoor person – 18-30 years in G.T. Call:6481821
Experienced cleaners & bartenders – Call:225-8572 (Between 7am to 9am) Federal Management Security Services: Armed, Baton Officers, bus drivers. Located @ 120 Peter Rose Street, Queenstown - Tel:2260633, 226-0652, 226-0637 Warehouse staff and truck drivers for more information call: 609-7132. Send Applications to Maya @ 24 Saffon Street, C/town, G/ Town. One live-in housekeeper, to take care of infant. Long term employment – Call:697-8797
Progressive Driving School offers: Efficient Tutoring and affordable rates – Call:661-2273
House lots in Friendship. Tel: 692-8513
One Mobile Food Caravan Contact: 675-5448 One small Canter- Call:6853883 One 91 Sprinter. Price$380,000 – Tel:2296870; 696-3787
LEARN TO DRIVE Shalom Driving School @ 2 Croal street. Fee $16,000Call:227-3869
Make Up Courses, Artist Trained & Certified in Trinidad. Call: 660-5257, 647-1773
Canter Drivers, living in Essequibo & Berbice. Apply in person @ Alabama Trading Georgetown Ferry Stelling Stabroek
One (1) Cargo Ship – Call: 676-6933 One unregistered – 65 CF 210 flat bed, one 50 160 Recovery DAF- Contact:615-9332; 6410932; 695-0023
SALON
Dolly’s Car Rental - Call: 225-7126/ 226-3693 dollys autorental@yahoo.com/ www.dolly sautorental.com VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 AT 212 Carina (Private) Automatic, fully powered with AC, alarm - Price:1.3M Contact Rocky:621-5902 1- AT 192 Carina (Private) automatic, fully powered, mags, A/C - price$1.2M Contact Rocky:225-1400 One Toyota RAV 4 PNN Series- Contact: 650-7875. Serious Enquiries only! Sold by first owner!
Drivers – Albion, Sales Manager, drivers, bond clerks, East Coast, R.A Soda Factory – Call:330-2399, 3302772 #7 Bakery Drivers for bus, manager & salesperson, accountant, checkers, drivers: Rosignol, RA Soda Factory - Call: 330-2399, 3302772 One Store Keeper between age 25 & 40, preferably from La Parfaite Harmonie / West Minister Area. Must be computer literate – Call:6732484 VEHICLE FOR SALE We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 TacomaCall:680-3154
VEHICLE FOR SALE One (1) Fielder Wagon, PNN series – Tel:666-7734 or 225-1276 1 Honda Civic, 2001 Model, 1 Toyota Tundra V6 4X4 manual, 2 Yamaha ATV – Call:225-0709 P&A Auto Sales: Premio, Spacio, Raum, Rush, IST, AT 212. Call: 661-9651 or 681-8474 Cheapest A- Grade Vehicles In-stock: Hilux 3RZ engine, Allions, IST, Manual 1RZ bus, Pit-bull & VVTI Automatic buses - Tel:616-7635 New 2014 Toyota 4X4 Hilux, $15M, unbeatable deal, tel: 642-6664 1 Freight liner hauler with sleeping cab, 1 -48ft trailor with treated wood – Call: Rakesh 613-6979 One (1) Model M Winch Truck, GRR series – Tel:6667734 or 225-1276 One crashed Benz C200 $1.8M, one Nissan Titan 6/ 8 Cylinder 2004/ L.E 22 rims - $3.5M – Call:624-7341 Smart Choice Auto Sales: Unregistered: Premio, Allex, IST, Spacio, Allion - Call: 652-3820; 665-4529 Quantum Auto: 2003 Dark blue Raum with Alloy Wheels, TV/Nav, Silver Premio. Excellent Condition Call: 624-7684; 617-2378 Toyota Verossa, Price:$2.5M, PLL series, excellent condition Contact George: 603-7172 Toyota Raum, Spacio, AT212, AT192, NZE ,LTouring wagon, Nissan E24 Caravan, 4x4 Hilux Pickup – Tel:644-5096; 697-1453. One Pit-bull minibus, with 15 seats, just off the Wharf $3.6M & 1 used short based Canter (negotiable) – Tel:648-2834; 676-4243. AT Carina - $875,000, AT170 Corona - $775,000, RZ Minibus - $1.8M, Tacoma Van - $2.3M. All prices are negotiable – Tel:618-8703; 601-3439 Toyota ACE small bus, excellent condition – Call: 666-2744/616-5622. Owner leaving country. Unregistered 2002 Toyota Premio - $2.6M negotiable. Call Sunil:227-55950, 6815470 NZE, PSS series, in excellent condition with mags, alarm, CD player, chrome mirrors – Price: $1.750M – Contact Shahab: 613-5484. 1 Suzuki R1 wagon (Jeep) Automatic, Fully Powered with A/C, hardly used – Price:$1.3M Contact Rocky: 621-5902/ 225-1400 (Continued on page 23)
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 23
Guyana Shop expands to other Regions In wanting to further promote the local agroprocessing industry, the Ministry of Agriculture has moved to expanding the Guyana Shop to Regions all across the country. A few supermarkets located in Berbice Region Six and Essequibo, Region Two are now equipped with a Guyana Shop corner, which showcases and sells strictly locally produced and packaged products. The Agriculture Officer responsible for Berbice told Kaieteur News during a brief interview that the Guyana Shop initiative has been picking up in that Region. He said that as a result of the increased promotions, more persons are becoming curious and asking about local agro-processing, and how they can get involved. Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, also told this newspaper during an interview that the plan is to establish a “Guyana Shop Corner” in at least one major supermarket in each Administrative Region. He believes that the success of this initiative will help to not only boost local agro-processors and their businesses, but will also provide a platform for consumers to purchase more locally produced items. Located at the corners of Alexander and Robb Streets, Georgetown, the original Guyana Shop was established in 2012 with the aim of promoting the buying of locally produced products. Each month, the entity hosts an exhibition, where the byproducts of a particular raw material would be showcased. These exhibitions have not been done for a while now though. The most recent ones include the “grand” coconut and pineapple expositions held last year. Dr. Ramsammy emphasized particularly on his intention to establish a full-fledged Guyana Shop at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) before the end of 2014. “We want foreigners or overseas-based Guyanese to come to Guyana and take back our stuff; our pepper
- establishment at CJIA likely before year end (From page 22)
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Repairs, sales & spares air conditioning, microwaves, washer, fridges & stoves. Ultra Cool, call: 225-9032, 6472943
Some local products on display at the Guyana Shop sauce and our achar and so on. Doing this would not only boost the local entities producing the items, but it will also sell Guyana as a country,” the Minister pointed out. More than 60 local agroprocessing companies from all across the country have items that are being showcased and sold locally, Dr. Ramsammy asserted. He added that with the massive improvement in the agroprocessing industry, there are now more than 100 local producers of preserved foods. These entities are not all licensed, but only those who have been certified by the Food and Drug Analyst Department can benefit from the services of the Guyana Shop. Making certification a requirement will see more and more bottom-houses becoming certified, therefore leaving significant room for major exportation possibilities. Dr. Ramsammy, during a recent interview with this newspaper, said that persons whose products are yet to make an appearance on the shelves of the Guyana Shop, can do so simply by becoming registered with the Guyana Marketing
Corporation (GMC). “The GMC will work with them so that their products can have an opportunity to become accessible by the Guyanese public. We will help them by ensuring that they overcome the deficits and deficiencies that they face in producing their products,” Dr. Ramsammy said. To this end, the Agriculture Ministry, in collaboration with the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) and the Guyana Agro Processors Association (GAPA) in March, hosted an Agro Processors forum at the Guyana International Conference Centre. The forum, accompanied by an exhibition of local products, sought to provide an opportunity for local agroprocessors to interact with stakeholders of the industry. These included representatives from the Food and Drugs Department, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards and commercial banks. According to Dr. Ramsammy, the Guyana Shop’s main location currently has more than 400 different kinds of products on its shelves.
These, he said, include jams, juices, mixed seasonings, pepper and other sauces, achar and a range of nutritious drinks. Dr. Ramsammy explained that his Ministry is aiming to have Guyana known as a country that produces nutritious, high quality, value added products ideal for export.
VEHICLE FOR SALE Toyota Vigo Truck, Toyota Carina 212 and Nissan Pathfinder, excellent condition, negotiable – Call:644-1144, 225-8427, 2643732 AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN & RZ & Pitbull minibuses, 7-Seater Super Custom. Cash / termsCall:680-3154 One Toyota Raum – Tel:6964078 One Toyota Hilux 4-Runner - $1.5M negotiable - Call: 6827220 or 602-0268
COOL TECH: Repairs Services & Installation of all types of home appliances: Air Condition & Refrigeration units - Tel: 233-2008; 675-4959 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 225-6496, 6626045 Repairs to Fridge, Freezer, AC, Washers, Stoves: Call 683-1312,627-3206 (Nick) B R I D G E WAT E R CONSTRUCTIONS - CO: NEWHOMESREMODELING, NEWBATHROOMS,TILE& M A R B L E INSTALLATION, FREE ESTIMATES- CALL: 6606935; 676-9660; 269-094 Services & repairs to gas stoves, washing machines, etc – Call:688-0183 Complete Vehicle Detailing Plus: wash, polish, interior steam cleaning, vacuuming, carpet cleaning & lawn mowing. Call:626-3126 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer call:2310655,683-8734 Omar Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. HOUSE PLAN DRAFTING FOR ONLY $10,000CALL:694-9843/227-2766 We Refill HP cartridges for $1800 call: 650-7699 Thinking of starting your own business? We provide free training & assist with a group of customers – Call:681-3619, 619-0951 WANTED 1 Live in maid –between 38 to 50 years old, must know to cook. Tel:680-7397, 6110200
WANTED Live out domestic babysitter and live in babysitter – Call:225-0188, 223-7500 (Monday to Saturday ) (8:15am-4:15pm) Do you need an excavator operator with 12 years experienced in mining? Contact: 696-2510 & 254-0624 One salon assistant, must know to do corn-row – Tel:622-2643 or 225-8701 CHAINSAW LUMBER: Kabukalli, Shibadan, Silverballi, Simarupa, etc Tel: 653-9752 Couple to work in the interior to cook and work in store Tel:614-2464, 612-2057, 2251276 Welders, carpenters, masons. Must be 25years and older – Tel:265-3586 Urgently! Joiners, spray painters (furniture), handyman and Upholster – Contact:225-6810 1 General Domestic to work in Georgetown, must know to cook Indian & Creole dishes. Must be trustworthy - Call:656-6388 One (1) night guard - Tel:6667734 or 225-1276 One Barber – Tel:225-6337 One girl to work in upholstery workshop and one salesgirl to work in store. Call: 610-7005 or 2191342 Urgently needed land to buy in low income areas especially La Parafaite Harmonie – Tel:675-7292 or 218-5591 Sales girls to work for 3 days per week – Tel:227-8535 Urgently needed live-in waitresses to work in bar & restaurant. Reasonable Salary Offer. Tel:259-0574 Fast Growing Food Manufacturer/Distributor seeks EXPERIENCED SALESPERSON with Valid Driver’s Licence for Berbice Sales – Tel:2318344, 223-1034 One female to cook at a home in the Interior Contact:681-6044 One male janitor. Apply in person to Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling.
Attractive live in waitressCall:327-0252/674-4665
Two waitresses, opposite The National Stadium, E.B.D – Call:233-5481 between 11:00am-6:00pm
Cashier needed for supermarket on the East Coast, Age 25 to 50, must be knowledgeable. Tel:629-8469
Two mechanics, assistant mechanic, secretary. Apply at J&J Service Center – Tel:227-4897 or 660-3360
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 10, 2014
Foreign Affairs Minister reveals increasing relations despite challenges Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carolyn RodriguesBirkett, has spoken among other things to the strengthening bilateral relations that Guyana shares with its CARICOM and Latin American neighbours. While the Minister was full of praise of Guyana’s diplomatic relations, there are challenges that need to be addressed. According to Birkett, “Our relations with Brazil continue to be strengthened with several programmes of cooperation. The major focus in recent times has been the work being conducted on several major infrastructure projects.” Some of those projects include, a Joint Commission dedicated to addressing the paving of the Linden-Lethem Road by “firstly completing an engineering design of the road; development of hydropower which if feasible, will see the export of excess energy to Brazil and a new source of revenue for our country and the development of a deep water port.” She outlined that these initiatives have the potential to develop the country and pledged that it will be done “in a consultative manner ensuring that we consider all of the impacts.” The Foreign Affairs Minister then spoke of relations with Suriname. Work continues to deepen relations with that country. “The fact that our two countries are the only CARICOM (Caribbean Community) States that share contiguous borders makes for
Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett a special relationship within the Community moreso”, she said in the area of agriculture. She further said, “Guyana and Suriname are also the only two CARICOM States that are members of the Union of South American Nations and have the status as Associate members of MERCOSUR. “It makes sense therefore, for Guyana to develop the kinds of relations with the Republic of Suriname.” She underscored in that context that Guyana views not only its diplomatic, political and trade links with the rest of South America, but also the infrastructure initiatives that are being pursued. Key amongst those she outlined “is the Corentyne River Bridge that will, with the
exiting Takutu Bridge, allow for the transport of goods by land from Albina in Eastern Suriname, to Lethem and Boa Vista in Brazil and farther afield. “We are very pleased with the developments thus far, in terms of the discussions with the Chinese Government and the Government of Suriname regarding the construction of the Corentyne Bridge.” Mention was also made of the land border matter where Suriname is laying claim to lands bordering Guyana. She said that “fruitful” discussions were held thrice with members of the Guyana Border Commission and the Integral National Border Commission of Suriname. According to Birkett, Guyana remains respectful and fully supportive of the
agreements arrived at between the United Kingdom and The Netherlands between 1929 and 1939. “Guyana remains convinced that those agreements were the result of good faith efforts at delimitation and culminated with a draft treaty which is just, albeit unsigned,” she said. Birkett then spoke about Venezuela where she posited the incident involving the interception of the research vessel RC Teknik Perdana while in Guyana’s waters. The Foreign Affairs Minister explained that “our two countries had agreed for discussions on our maritime boundaries to commence at the technical level. “Unfortunately, events in Venezuela conspired to ensure that, that meeting did not take place. Discussions have been held and it is envisaged that this should take place within a few months.” She did outline however, that Guyana still continues to purchase oil under the Petro Caribe arrangement “as we export rice to that sister country.” Birkett stressed that “as it is for all our neighbours we will continue to analyse our relations.” CARICOM AND GUYANESEEMERGENCY TREATMENT IN TRINIDAD The Foreign Affairs Minister outlined that Guyana
continues to tangibly demonstrate its commitment to the CARICOM integration movement. She articulated that Guyana’s trade policy is underpinned by the country’s rights and obligations under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas establishing the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). “In this regard, also, Guyana’s external trade policy is widely coordinated within CARICOM, including external trade negotiations with countries…In 2013, our overall exports to the region was G$22.3 billion, doubling the $10.3 billion in 2012. “This growth is accounted mainly by increased exports of rice, sugar, molasses, seafoods, lumber and rum.” Birkett then spoke to the incident of a Guyanese being refused emergency treatment in Trinidad, where she pronounced that “there is agreement by all CARICOM countries that there will be no question about emergency for CARICOM nationals. “I have spoken with my Trinidadian colleague and he promised to submit a Report on what transpired. He did not mention that what was reported is untrue.” She articulated further that if the story taken from the Trinidadian Guardian is true then “I must indicate my deep concern with the remarks of the Minister of Health of
Trinidad and Tobago when he wondered aloud about setting up a policy where visitors must have medical insurance before they enter that country. “This is very worrying especially since it comes from the country that benefits most from the CSM and has implications for nationals from all CARICOM countries.” The Guyanese, Sookram died on Thursday last in Trinidad, in the back seat of a car owned by a relative. His wife, Vidya Baichu, said that he was refused treatment at the Mount Hope Complex because he was a foreigner. Trinidad’s Health Minster Dr. Faud Khan has since ordered the abolishment of the signing of a financial guarantee form for persons seeking emergency medical treatment at the Mount Hope Medical complex where the Guyanese was reportedly denied access. This form it was reported might have been responsible for the death since the Minister of Health explained that the Guyanese wife might have “panicked” upon seeing the form and left the hospital with her husband. “He could not say how “many foreigners seek medical attention at Mount Hope without paying, but said that as long as they are treated, payment is not demanded.”
Swiss House Cambio boss murder…
Surgeon testifies as PI continues As the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the death of former Swiss House Cambio Managing Director, Farouk Razac, continued before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry yesterday, the Prosecution called its 14th witness to testify on behalf of the state. For a second time, Razac’s wife, Carolan Lynch, is charged with murdering him on May 7, 2007 at their Lot 106 Ireng Place, Bel Air Park, Georgetown residence. The PI got underway Tuesday last in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and is scheduled to be called again tomorrow. During yesterday’s proceedings, the Prosecution led by Corporal Bharat Mangru who is attached to the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) called Dr. Sheik Hassan Amir to offer a sworn testimony. Amir was, in 2007, the
Chief Surgeon at the Emergency Unit at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). He was cross examined by Defence Attorney Peter Hugh. The Prosecution declined to re-examine Amir’s testimony. Hugh and Attorney at Law Latchmie Rahamat are representing Lynch. From the commencement o the hearing last Tuesday, 13 persons have been called by the State. Mangru indicated to the court that Corporal Dutt was supposed to offer evidence in the matter during that hearing, but had ventured to the Brickdam Police Station to search for the relevant photographs. Mangru requested an adjournment date for Superintendent Stephen Greaves to testify. Mangru explained that at the time, Greaves was required to testify in the Bartica Magistrate’s
ACCUSED: Carolan Lynch Court. The Prosecutor explained that he is making efforts to have all witnesses come forth and testify in the matter. The PI is scheduled to continue today. The Prosecution is expected to report on the photographs and on the progress of the remaining witnesses. She said that after tomorrow’s date, the case will be called again on April 24. A total of 21 witnesses is expected to testify on behalf of the state.
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 10, 2014
Government announces new unit to tackle crime
P O RT O F S PA I N , Trinidad - CMC – The Tr i n i d a d a nd Tobago government has announced the establishment of a National Security Special Operations Group to deal with criminal activities in the country. But National Security Minister Gary Griffith made it clear that the new unit comprising, highly trained and specialised people capable of dealing with hostage negotiation, counter-terrorist activities and gang warfare, was different from the Special Anti-Crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago (SAUTT) that the coalition government disbanded soon after coming to office in 2010. Griffith, speaking in the Senate on Tuesday, said that rather than have a special task force “what we are having now is a National Security Special Operations Group” which
is necessary in the battle to deal with crime in the country. Griffith, a former senior official of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, defended the establishment of the unit, noting that the government was aware that there were concerns that there might be certain elements in the police service who may be “on the take” at certain stations. He said in some instances, law enforcement authorities were denied in carrying out their tasks because “ when you get a tip-off they (the criminal element) are already aware of what has happened...I lived it in my 15 years with the military where when we about to make a raid with the police.” “So we are putting a type of operation unit to ensure that there would be no breach in security as
well as building back confidence and trust in the same police service to weed out those rogue elements in the Police Service so we cannot have the problem where certain stations are being controlled and manipulated by individuals in gangs.” He said the unit will comprise several different arms of law enforcement: A r m y, C o a s t G u a r d , Immigration, Customs, the Police Service and Prisons among others. “This is not a covert unit and I think this was the concern with SAUTT...where you didn’t know what they were doing. This is not a clandestine unit, this is not a Flying Squad. This is something that is very open and transparent ...but will deal with the concept of major criminal activities ... in the 21st century,” he said.
Bureaucracy bug - Trade unionists lament leadership deficit in the country Jamaica Gleaner Prominent trade unionists have distanced themselves from the bureaucracy plaguing the private sector, blaming the lacklustre performance of government agencies and departments on a chronic leadership deficit. Not only did they lash middle management for inefficiency, at least one of them was less than impressed with the recycled board chairmen and CEOs in the public sector. Grouped at a Gleaner Editors’ Forum Tuesday, the union heads said public sector workers were not to be blamed for the bureaucracy that currently obtained in the public sector. Speaking to the $152 billion budgeted for public sector wages in the 2014-2015 Budget and whether the country was getting value for its money from workers, Helene DavisWhyte, vice-president of the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions, said public sector employees were adding more value than what they were being paid for. She said the problems derived not so much from the workers, but from those leaders in the public sector who were holding the system to ransom. “You have many persons in Jamaica who are to take some decisions, and rather than enable the decisions to be taken, they
Kavan Gayle will go out and say, ‘It’s them’, not accepting ownership,” she said. Davis-Whyte said particularly in the area of middle management, it was proving difficult to find leaders who would help to increase productivity in the public sector. She said the problem was not only unique to the public sector, but the private sector was also finding it difficult to find effective leaders. Opposition Senator Kavan Gayle, who is also president of the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union, said the leadership problem extended to the constant regurgitation of managers in various capacities in the public sector. “At senior levels, what we
are playing is Russian Roulette, where we see the same people being chairmen of boards and chief executive officers. Give some other people who can think some opportunities,” Gayle argued. He said there were several persons leaving tertiary institutions who were not being given the opportunity to lead, and this was dangerous. Head of the Hugh Lawson Shearer Trade Union Education Institute, Danny Roberts, said leaders must now reconsider their management style as they were not being creative in executing their duties. “What we need are leaders in the workplace and leaders in the society who can facilitate the development and creativity of our human resources, and if we have that, the country will be better off,” Roberts said. He said it was not beyond the country to find good leaders and added that the political process could partly be blamed for not allowing new and creative leaders to come forward. “I am sure that there are persons here with great leadership abilities, but they are just not being allowed to emerge. And the political process has really locked out a whole generation of leaders because a lot of the persons who are there now were there between 20 and 30 years ago.
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Putin threatens to make Pistorius forced to look at Ukraine pay ahead for gas ‘exploded’ head of girlfriend MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened yesterday to start charging Ukraine in advance for vital natural gas supplies — a move that could sharply hurt his neighbor, which is already on the verge of bankruptcy. It was just the latest way Moscow is putting pressure on Ukraine since its proRussian president Viktor Yanukovych was ousted from power in February after months of street protests. Meanwhile, NATO’s top military commander in Europe told The Associated Press that countermoves to the Russian milit a r y t h r e a t against Ukraine could include sending American troops to alliance nations in Eastern Europe feeling at risk. U.S. Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove told the Associated Press yesterday that he wouldn’t “write off involvement by any nation, to include the United States.” “Essentially what we are looking at is a package of land, air and maritime measures that would build assurance for our easternmost allies,” he said. Putin, who was chairing a meeting with government ministers in his suburban residence outside Moscow, Putin said asking for advance gas payments “corresponded with th e contract” between Ukraine and Russia. Still, he suggested that the state energy giant Gazprom to refrain from such drastic measures until “additional consultations” between both sides. Russia has already eliminated a gas discount
it had given Ukraine, arguing that it was tied to a lease for Russia’s Black Sea Fleet base in Crimea, a Ukrainian region that Russia annexed last month. And Ukraine has promised the International Monetary Fund that it will cut energy subsidies to residents in exchange for a bailout loan of up to $14 billion — so gas prices were set to rise 50 percent on May 1 even before the latest salvo from Putin. Speaking in Kiev earlier, Ukrainian Energy Minister Yuri Prodan said Ukraine will pay for March deliveries of gas from Russia only after it reaches an agreement on the price. He rejected the new, much higher price that Gazprom announced earlier and said Ukraine has not pumped in any gas from Russia so far this month. Authorities in Kiev also warned yesterday they are prepared to use force to clear several government buildings seized by proRussian separatists in the east of the country. Interior Minister Arsen Avakov said the standoff in Luhansk and the two neighboring Russianleaning regions of Donetsk and Kharkiv must be resolved within the next two days. “I want to repeat that there are two options: political settlement through negotiations and the use of force,” Avakov told reporters. “We are ready for both options.” As he spoke, antigovernment protesters in Luhansk erected high barricades along a thoroughfare running in front of the security service
premises. All the cities affected by the uprisings are in Ukraine’s industrial Russian-speaking heartland in the east, which has a large population of ethnic Russians and where economic and cultural ties to Russia are strong. Many residents are suspicious of government that took power in February. In a sign of the public relations battle going on between the two nations, some Russian media — including state-run RIA Novosti — switched their description of those occupying the buildings from pro-Russian protesters to “supporters of federalization.” Protesters continued to occupy the headquarters of Ukraine’s Security Service in the eastern city of Luhansk, with hundreds of supporters camped outside and shouting “Putin! Putin!” overnight. The security agency had said the separatists inside the building, armed with explosives and other weapons, were threatening hostages inside. The hostages — 56 in all —were allowed to leave the building overnight, it said. Local police disputed that claim, however, saying there had been no hostages. Serhiy Tyhipko, a Ukrainian lawmaker associated with Yanukovych’s ousted government, urged the new authorities in Kiev not to storm the building in Luhansk but rather negotiate a peaceful resolution. He said the protesters wanted Ukraine to turn into a federal state with broad regional autonomy, not for their region to secede.
Olympic and Paralympic track star Oscar Pistorius (C) arrives ahead of his trial at the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria yesterday. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko PRETORIA (Reuters) - A South African prosecutor forced Oscar Pistorius yesterday to look at a forensic photograph that showed the head of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp after it was blown open by a hollow-point bullet fired by the Olympic and Paralympic track star. In a dramatic opening to his cross-examination of Pistorius, prosecutor Gerrie Nel made him admit he had killed Steenkamp then later confronted him with the
photograph showing the side and back of her skull, her hair matted with blood and brains. “Have a look there. I know you don’t want to because you don’t want to take responsibility,” Nel said to gasps from the packed public gallery. “Take responsibility for what you have done,” Nel persisted, his voice rising almost to a shout. Pistorius responded by burying his head in his hands in the witness stand, rocking
from side to side and weeping. The double amputee sprinter, once revered across the world for his triumph over adversity, faces life in prison if convicted in the Pretoria High Court of the murder of Steenkamp, a 29-year-old law graduate and model. His defense hinges on his contention that he thought he was firing at an intruder when he shot Steenkamp through a toilet door in his luxury Pretoria home on February 14 - Valentine’s Day - last year.
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Thursday April 10, 2014
Trinidad’s ex-Prime Minister A.N.R. (Ray) Robinson dies at 87 (Reuters) - Trinidad and Tobago’s former Prime Minister and President A.N.R. (Ray) Robinson, one of the architects of the International Criminal Court, died yesterday at age 87 after a long illness. National Security Minister Gary Griffith confirmed the death of Robinson who served as prime minister from 1986 to 1991 and as president from 1997 to 2003. Robinson is internationally recognized for his proposal, at the 44th session of the United Nations in 1989, to create a permanent international court to hear cases involving the international drug trade. The proposal revived
earlier calls for a world court to deal with crimes against humanity and helped lead to the inauguration of the ICC, which is based in The Hague, Netherlands, in 2002. During his tenure as prime minister, Robinson and members of his government and lawmakers were held hostage in the parliament for six days in July 1990 by members of the radical Muslim group, Jamaat al Muslimeen, during an attempt to overthrow the government. Robinson was the recipient of several international awards, among them the Distinguished International Criminal Law Award of 1977 and the
Distinguished Human Development Award of 1983.
ST. GEORGE’S, GRENADA – GIS - The government of Venezuela has pledged funding to Grenada, and other Petro Caribe member states in Latin America and the Caribbean, to eradicate hunger and poverty. The pledge was made during a meeting held in Venezuela last weekend. Grenada was represented
by Hon. Oliver Joseph, Minister for Economic Development, Trade, Planning and Co-operatives, and Mr. Peter David. Minister Joseph told members of the media, on Tuesday, that five areas have been identified for support. “They clearly outline what needs to be done in order to eradicate poverty, and Venezuela will offer support
to member states for this initiative,” Minister Joseph said. “Grenada is part of this initiative and we stand to benefit from this drive to eradicate hunger and poverty in Latin America and the Caribbean.” Ministers responsible for Petro Caribe will meet in June in Venezuela – where the funding will be committed for the programme.
A.N.R. (Ray) Robinson
Venezuela to fund poverty eradication programmes in Grenada
PM denies another resignation from her Cabinet Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation - Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar has denied reports that Tobago Development Minister Dr. Delmon Baker had resigned from her Cabinet due to allegations of improper conduct. “That is totally untrue. He remains a member of my government,” she told the NEWSDAY newspaper yesterday. There had been widespread speculation that Baker, a member of the Tobago Organisation of the
People (TOP), one of the four parties in the coalition People’s Partnership government, had submitted his resignation. The report come on the heels of the removal from Cabinet of two ministers over the past three weeks over alleged misconduct on a domestic Caribbean Airlines flight and an assault of a woman in a car park respectively. NEWSDAY quoting sources said that Baker had gone to the police where he made a formal report detailing
an attempt to blackmail and extort contracts from him over certain allegations. The paper said he gave a statement to the police and urged them to investigate the matter. “He was accompanied by his lawyer Jagdeo Singh and handed over several printouts of emails and other documentary evidence which contained details about the demands made by an individual for State contracts and “ a s s i s t a n c e”,” the paper reported.
Venezuela reaches out to Vatican No. 2 to mediate crisis CARACAS (Reuters) Venezuela’s government formally invited Vatican No. 2 Cardinal Pietro Parolin yesterday to mediate talks with the opposition in hopes of stemming violence that has killed dozens in the nation’s worst unrest in a decade. In a letter, President Nicolas Maduro’s government asked that
Parolin, a former envoy to Venezuela who is now the Vatican’s secretary of state, be named a “good faith witness” to a dialogue agreed after two months of protests. A Vatican spokesman confirmed the Roman Catholic Church’s willingness to mediate, but gave no details. Venezuela’s opposition
coalition had indicated that current Vatican envoy, Aldo Giordano, would be attending the first formal talks, which are to start today in Caracas. Both Vatican officials are Italian. Parolin, who represented the Vatican in Venezuela from 2009 to 2013, is a frugal, publicity-shy career diplomat.
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Cyclists compete in Berbice Entries for Banks Beer again this weekend Softball Cup close on April 23 Entries for the Banks Beer champions of champions inter company and association softball cricket competition will be closed on April 23. The competition will be played on May 6 at Thirst Park and Entrance fee is $12,000. Action gets underway at 18:00hrs. Organiser Samuel Kingston
stated that the first 16 teams will be accepted and the tournament will be contested in two categories; over 35 and open. The first place team in the open division will pocket a trophy and $120,000 and the runner up a trophy and $60,000. The over 35 winners will take home a trophy and $100,000 and the runner up a
trophy and $50,000. Among the teams expected to take part are King’s Jewellery, MediCare, Nafico, Beharry Group of Companies, Scotiabank, NBIC, Demerara Power and Light, Princess Hotel and Banks DIH. For more information teams can contact Samuel Kingston on 6149536.
Thursday April 10, 2014 ARIES (MAR 21 - APR 19): An intense conversation with your romantic partner could take place today, Aries. This could involve taking the relationship to the next commitment level, and the subject of marriage could come up. *************************** TAURUS (APR 20 - MAY 20): Today you and the other members of your household might discuss the possibility of making some changes, Taurus. This could involve some redecorating or remodeling or even something as mundane as a thorough cleaning. *************************** GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN 20): Today you might feel the urge to write, Gemini. This could involve nothing more than a lengthy letter or email to a friend, but it could also be creative work, such as a novel, essay, screenplay, or poem. *************************** CANCER (JUN 21 - JUL 22): Paperwork involving money needs to be executed today, Cancer. It could be a settlement, new commission, or bonus of some kind. This is likely to be a joyous occasion because money is coming your way, even though the paperwork itself might be a drag. *************************** LEO (JUL 23 - AUG 22): Today your mind should be especially quick and penetrating, Leo. You could decide to tackle some in-depth research that you've been considering doing for a while on a subject that fascinates you. ************************ VIRGO (AUG23 - SEP22): You always tend to have good powers of concentration, Pisces, but today you're more focused than usual, probably on a project that means a lot to you. This could be job related, it might involve helping a friend, or it may just be a personal project.
LIBRA (SEP 23 - OCT 22): Today you might decide to attend a group activity that is primarily concerned with an intellectual, philosophical, or spiritual interest of yours, Libra. *************************** SCORPIO (OCT 23 - NOV 21): A public figure, perhaps an author, might capture your interest in some way today, Scorpio. This person could have a lot to say that appeals to you on a number of different levels. *************************** SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 DEC 21): Today you might attend a party or group activity that puts you in touch with some interesting people from faraway places, Sagittarius. *************************** CAPRICORN (DEC 22 JAN 19): Some big upheaval in your career could take you by surprise, Capricorn, but it's apt to make a very positive difference to you. Your public standing and income could both skyrocket. Legal papers might be involved in some way.
*************************** AQUARIUS (JAN 20 FEB 18): A social event could bring you into contact with a very intense, fascinating person in an intriguing profession, Aquarius. You could find him or her very charming and sexy. *************************** PISCES (FEB 19 - MAR 20): You always tend to have good powers of concentration, Pisces, but today you're more focused than usual, probably on a project that means a lot to you. This could be job related, it might involve helping a friend, or it may just be a personal project. Whatever it is, you should accomplish a lot today.
Cycling coach Randolph Roberts of the Flying Ace Cycle Club of New Amsterdam has organized yet another cycling event for riders in Berbice. This is the third cycling event in four weeks and the 6th so far for the year that has been organized by the FACC and Roberts. Roberts feels that to keep in top form, cyclists should be involved in competitive riding as often as possible. He stated that, “The time has come for more action and less talk. The more competitive
Barnwell Birth Anniversary Dominoes set for April 11 Johnny Barnwell six teams Birth Anniversary Dominoes competition will be played on April 11 at Guyana Legion, Carifesta Avenue commencing at 18:00 hrs. Sophia, Republic Bank and Black Stallion are among the teams slated to take part. Entrance fee is $6,000 and each team is asked to take along a pack of dominoes. At stake are trophies, medals and cash prizes donated by the Guyana Defence Force, Minister of Sport Dr. Frank Anthony, Trophy Stall Bourda Market, Mr. Persaud and Ken Phillips.
Former U.S. wrestling .. From page 35 healthy, spirit-filled, and happy home life,” he wrote. Fans, supporters and wrestlers took to the internet to express their respect for the wrestler, who is survived by his wife Dana and his two daughters, WWE said. “Shocked and very saddened to hear about Ultimate Warrior passing. Prayers go out to his family! RIP. Loss for words,” wrestler Curtis wrote in a Twitter message. “RIP WARRIOR. only love. HH,” Hulk Hogan tweeted. “Tomorrow is promised to know one!!” fellow Hall of Famer Rowdy Roddy Piper tweeted. “My love to The Warrior and family. RIP.” “Icon and friend,” WWE Chief Operating Officer Triple H wrote in a Twitter message.
riding the cyclists are involved in the better it will be for them,” Roberts asserted. The man, who has been credited with almost single handedly keeping cycling going in the Ancient County, stated that cyclists needed to be active as often as possible. His desire this year is to keep the cyclists as busy as possible and to bring new riders to the fore. The event, which is a 50 mile affair and is sponsored by a number of persons in the Ancient County, is for Berbician cyclists only. It is expected to pedal off from Marks Bridge at Tacama Turn 60, Stanleytown, pass through the town of New Amsterdam and race to NO.43 Bridge before turning back to finish in front of the First Impression Hotel at Hampshire Corentyne. Prizes will be awarded to
the first eight finishers, the first two females ,the first two beginners and the first two female U16 riders. There will also be eight prime point prizes up for grabs. The females and beginners are expected to ride shorter distances. Cyclists from both the FACC and Trojan Cycle clubs are expected to renew battle with the likes of Andrea ‘Padlock’ Green, Ray Millington, the Crawford cousins Romallo and Jevon, Elijah Brijadder, Andrew Hicks, Wasim Hassnu, Audrel Ross, Edmond Francis, Keith Griffith, Wilbert and Gary Benjamin, Turhan Harris and Syborne Fernandes among others. Among the sponsors are Furniture World in New Amsterdam, the Crawford Family and First Impression Hotel at Hampshire Corentyne among others.
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Kaieteur News
Letter to the Sports Editor
Infrastructural decay is ruining the ARCCG DEAR EDITOR, I have been visiting the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground (ARCCG) on a regular basis, including playing cricket matches there. On each occasion for the last four weeks, the site has been quite depressing and perhaps it has even become a laughing stock. Recently, a spectator became uncontrollably amused after a cricket ball that was only three deliveries old was lost within the ground due to the vast amount of breeding bushes that surrounds the unkempt drains. In this modern age he asserted? Those were habitual scenes that existed two decades ago when we were forced to play on rugged fields and endured the agony of many unfinished games because of lost balls. Unfortunately it seemed that little has changed since then, except that the balls are now being generously replaced with frequency. To begin with, the physical structure including sections of the fencing, the score board, press box, concrete Centre and the toilet facilities are all in a dysfunctional state. The main pavilion also has several loose and old zinc sheets that create loud noises in the heavy wind and if they falloff, someone may seriously get injured. A female spectator recently had to endure the embarrassment of seeking urgent relief elsewhere after she could not have used the washroom because they were locked. This has been the state of the ARCCG for quite some time and even the appointed IMC of the Anna Regina Town Council has failed in their constitutional responsibility in up-keeping the ground to
even the minimal of standard. It has been about two months now since the ground hosted Republic celebrations and disastrously countless splints of broken bottles are still embedded there. Surely a cricketer should not risk diving for neither a ball there nor a footballer engaging in a sliding tackle, because it is dangerous. I recall Ramnaresh Sarwan and the Demerara team previously refusing to play at the ARCCG in an intercounty match until it was thoroughly cleaned because of a similar threat. Why the authorities ignominiously continue to neglect the most important and priceless ground on the Essequibo Coast is a colossal guess. There is no guessing though that the ground is frequently being used to host numerous fairs and other activities, while the Council is handsomely compensated. Yet there is very little indication that even a portion of the income is being spent on its maintenance. Why glass bottles and heavy duty vehicles continue to be allowed in the ground during soggy conditions are questions that have now become exhausted. Don’t the authorities care for sports in Essequibo? There are close to one hundred persons, mostly youths including females that use the facility daily to engage in various sporting disciplines. I am encouraged because I have observed promising talent, many of whom crave for the opportunity to become national athletes through guidance, intense training and proper facilities. This will not be achieved however, if this facility is not prudently managed, maintained and appropriately secured in the
future. This facility has the potential to become a first class venue and every opportunity, including much more support from the Government and corporate entities should urgently respond to make this a reality. The idling concrete Centre can be refurbished and made into a member’s pavilion with dressing rooms and even have a canteen to cater for fans as is the case with many grounds such as Bourda and Everest in Georgetown. There is an interest to have flood-lights installed and hopefully this can be realized as soon as possible as I have advocated previously. Advantageously the ECB cricket Hostel is just next door and should be incorporated for easier access for the players during encampment. The North Essequibo Cricket Committee along with devoted cricketers must be commended for selflessly devoting their time and personal resources to develop and maintain excellent pitches, while the footballers have done the same to erect goal posts. The GFF under Mr. Christopher Mathias has revived the sport in the region and this is a positive sign for the athletes. Notwithstanding, the challenges of preventing the animals from entering the ground is useless with fallen fences and without security personnel. These sore issues cannot be ignored further given the strategic and critical establishment of the ARCCG. It is time the authorities act with intent and save this facility from being completely ruined. Yours Faithfully, Elroy Stephney
Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) demolished Tutorial Academy Secondary School (TASS) 3-1 to remain the only unbeaten team when play in the Berbice leg of the Scotiabank/Pepsi Schools Football Academy continued on Tuesday at the Esplanade Park in New Amsterdam. The purposeful BEI unit opened their account in the 17th minute when Kevin Williams scored with a free kick from outside the 18 yard box. It was 2-0 in the 24th minute when Shakiel Durant
scored from close range. The score remained unchanged at half time. TASS began the second half desperate to make up lost ground and with the hard working Joshua Butts upping his game. Butts, who was almost all over the place in an effort to take control was eventually rewarded when he scored to pull one back and make it 2-1. However, as the game continued BEI was awarded a penalty which Jerold Forth made no mistake with to give BEI the 3-1 win. The
competition continues in Berbice today with defending champions Berbice High School (BHS) taking on Vryman’s Erven Secondary School VESS from 15:30hrs at the Esplanade Park. The points standing in the six teams competition so far shows BEI leading with six points with TASS, New Amsterdam Multilateral School (NAMS), VESS and BHS locked on three points each. Canje Secondary School (CSS) is still to record a point. (Samuel Whyte)
Berbice Educational Institute rolls over Tutorial Academy
Thursday April 10, 2014
Trophy Stall/EBFA U-15 presentation fixed for tomorrow @ Grove The presentation ceremony for the Trophy Stall sponsored East Bank Football Association Under-15 League will take place tomorrow at the Grove Community Centre commencing at 15:00hrs. Grove Hi Tech played unbeaten throughout the two-round competition to end with the maximum 18 points and will receive the winner ’s trophy and 18 gold medals. Soesdyke Falcons will be presented with the second place
trophy and 18 silver medals, while the third place Diamond will collect the third place trophy and 18 bronze medals. The joint leading goal scorers, Theron Pluck (Grove Hi Tech) and Shane Meusa (Soesdyke Falcons) will each receive the Golden Boot trophies. Awards will also go to the Most Valuable Player, Best Goalkeeper and Best Coach of the tournament. The three females, one from Diamond United and
two from Herstelling FC that played in the competition will be rewarded with a pair of football boots each compliments of President of Misteden, a USA based Guyanese c o m p a n y, Stephen Budhu. The boots t h a t are d e s i g n e d a n d manufactured by Budhu were donated to the Lady J a guars when t h e y h a d qualified for the CONCACAF Finals that were played in Mexico in 2010.
Race walk set for National Park on Sunday Race Walkers from all over the country will match steps on Sunday April 13th 2014, when the Cavaliers S p o r t s a n d To u r C l u b stages its Road to Brazil 10k R a c e Wa l k a r o u n d t h e National Park, Thomas Lands, commencing at 06:30hrs. The race will launch a series of Race Walks which is aimed at moulding a team to participate in the Olympics in 20016 in Brazil. The activities will continue on Sunday April 20 with the first of two races
in the Mining town of Linden. On Easter Sunday, April 20, the race will commence at 06:30hrs at the Linden Bridge (Wismar end) and proceed along the Winifred Gaskin’s Highway, ending at the Bayroc Recreational Centre, Wisroc. On Sunday April 27, the Linden Town Week Race Wa l k w i l l s t a r t a t t h e Amelia’s Ward junction, McKenzie and proceed to Egbert Benjamin Center, Republic Drive, for the finish.
Trophies, Medals and other prizes will be at stake in the categories Male and Female (Seniors), Juniors, Veterans and Differently Abled. Meanwhile, Coordinator of the CSTC, Jennifer Major is appealing to Corporate Guyana, the Government and sport loving individuals to come forward and assist in the development and expansion of Race Walking with the donation of trophies, medals and other prizes as well as water and transportation.
BBC Sport - Atletico Madrid knocked Spanish rivals Barcelona out of the Champions League as Koke’s early goal gave them a 2-1 aggregate win over the Catalan giants. The midfielder ’s closerange shot put the Spanish league leaders into the semi-finals following the 11 draw in Barcelona last week. Hosts Atletico struck the woodwork three times in the opening 20 minutes. Gabi wasted a fine chance for Atletico after the break while Neymar went close with a diving header for Barcelona. The result puts Atletico into the last four of the competition for the first time since 1974, and with D i e g o S i m e o n e ’s s i d e heading La Liga by a point from Barcelona with six games remaining, a domestic and European double is a distinct possibility. Barcelona counterpart Gerardo Martino, by contrast, must contemplate the fact that his side have become the first Barca team
to fail to reach the semifinals of the Champions League since 2007. Four previous meetings between the two sides this season - in La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup and the first leg of this tie - had all ended in draws, but Atletico began the match positively rather than being content to rest on their away goal advantage. Adrian Lopez, in the side for Diego Costa with the prolific striker ruled out by a hamstring injury, shot against the post in the fifth minute, but within seconds Atletico were ahead. Former Barcelona f o r w a r d D a v i d Vi l l a collected the rebound to cross from the left, and after Raul Garcia nodded back across the face of goal, Koke - recently called “an extraordinary footballer” b y B a r c e l o n a ’s X a v i stabbed the ball past Barca goalkeeper Jose Manuel Pinto. There was no respite from Atletico, who came close to killing the tie off before the 20-minute mark, with Villa hitting the post
and then the crossbar. Argentine superstar Lionel Messi had headed just wide in between Villa’s two efforts, and although the Catalans improved as the game developed, they failed to consistently test Atletico goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. D i e g o , s c o rer of the crucial away goal in the first leg, forced Pinto into action with a fierce shot from a tight angle after At l e t i c o h a d s o a k e d u p B a r c e l o n a ’s pressure in the early part of the second half. Gabi’s weak shot at the feet of Pinto wasted another chance for the hosts, who soon had a penalty claim ignored by referee Howard Webb after Villa had gone down under a challenge from Javier Mascherano. Neymar ’s header, 13 minutes from the end, was inches wide of Courtois’ right-hand post with the on-loan Chelsea player struggling to get near the ball, but Pinto was the busier of the two keepers in the final stages as Atletico claimed a memorable win.
Atletico stun Spanish rivals Barcelona
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Jayawardene, Sangakkara Female teams to enter free of charge lash out at board GSCL Inc Independence Cup
As preparation continues for the inaugural Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL Inc) Independence Cup, trustee of the GSCL Inc, Mahendra Azhar Hardyal, told Kaieteur Sport yesterday that the female teams are not required to pay entrance fees. He said that the female segment of the tournament will be played on a 10/10 basis and the first place team will take home a trophy and $50,000 and the runner up a trophy and $25,000. Hardyal stated that the GSCL is trying to get more females involved in the sport. “The female players have lots of talent and we want to give them an equal opportunity to showcase their skills”, he added. Entries will close on April 23 while the launching and draw will take place on April 24 at GNIC Sports Club, Woolford Avenue at 17:00 hrs. Apart from the females category, teams will also battle in the over 40 and open segment and the competition will be played on May 3, 4 and 5 at various venues in the city, culminating with the finals at the Everest Cricket Club. The first eight teams will be accepted for the Masters’ categories while the GSCL is looking at accommodating twelve teams for the open division and the final is expected to be broadcasted
Regal SCC, Trophy Stall on board
Mahendra Hardyal live on NCN Voice of Guyana. Entrance fees for the open and masters division are $110,000 and $100,000 respectively. The prizes for the Open category will be based on the number of teams entered. The winner will be given $800, 000 with the runners-up $200, 000 if 12 teams enter, but if the category will be contested by eight teams the first place will pocket a trophy and $500,000 and the runners up a trophy and $200,000. For the Masters, the winners will take home $500, 000 and the runners-up $200, 000. The GSCL Inc. will be providing the Supreme balls to be used by teams competing in the Open and
Female categories and teams are asked to note that only round hand bowling will be accepted in both divisions, while for the Masters category the big ball will be utilized, while both round hand and wrist bowling will be tolerated. Added information will be provided at the team briefing. Among the sponsors on board so far are Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Trophy Stall Bourda Market, Romaine Car Wash and Agri Parts. Wolf ’s Warriors, Regal, Trophy Stall, Memorex and DVD Titans are some of the teams expected to battle in the open category while Regal, Parika Defenders, Industry, Dereck Auto XI and Wellman are among those that will clash in the Masters division. Some of the grounds identified to be used for this tournament, which promises to be an annual affair, are Demerara Cricket Club, Ministry of Education, Carifesta Sports Complex, Muslim Youth Organisation, Guyana National Industrial Corporation, St Stanislaus and Everest. Registration can be done by contacting Assistant Secretary/Treasurer of the GSCL Inc. Russell Jadbeer on 225-4802, 226-4205 or 6268228.
Trophy Stall Softball: Female/Male Masters semis for DCC on Saturday Wolf Warriors and Regal through to Open final Wolf Warriors defeated Trophy Stall A and Regal trashed Farm in the semifinals of the Trophy Stall sponsored Softball Cricket tournament at the GCC ground, Bourda, last Sunday. Wolf Warriors batting first against Trophy Stall A and posted 194 all out off their 20 overs. Mohamed Karim 33 and Safraz Karim 29 were the main scorers. S. Budhu took 3 for 17 and Fazal Rafeek 2 for 30 for Trophy Stall. Trophy Stall A were then restricted to 133 all out off 15 overs. S. Budhu made 35. Azad Azeez 4 for 7, Narine Bailey 3 for 28 and Ammer Nizamidin 3 for 29, were the destroyers. Wolf Warriors won by 61 runs. In the other match, Regal were too good for Farm, prevailing by 133 runs. Regal rattled up 212 for 9 off their 20 overs. F. Esau led the way with 52, Ricky Sargeant 30.
For Farm, K. Joseph 27, M. Ayume 25 and R. Latiff 23, L. Marks took 4 for 52 and B. Ramsarran 2 for 30. Farm in reply were bundled out for 79 off 12.4 overs. A. Aziz was 26 not out at the end. M. Bob took 4 for 25 and Latiff 2 for 13. The Masters semi-finals, along with the remaining female qualifying matches and female semi-finals will be played on Saturday 12th of April at the DCC ground from 3:00pm and continue under floodlights. In the qualifying match, 4R Lioness will take on Fazal Kayume Angels in the first game. The two female semifinals will be played at 5:45pm. Pitch 2: Wellwoman will play Karibee Strikers of Berbice, and on Pitch 1: Trophy Stall Angels will take on the winner of the 4R Lioness versus Fazal Kayume Angels. In the Masters 40 years
and Over semi-finals at 7:00pm on #1 pitch, Floodlights will take on Park Rangers and on #2 pitch, Industry Super Kings will do battle with Success Masters. The finals are slated for Saturday 26th April under floodlights at the DCC ground, Queenstown. Results in the 4th quarterfinal playoff: Floodlights def. Parika Defenders by 7 wickets, last Friday night under floodlights at the DCC ground. Defenders batting first were bowled out for 134 off 19.5 overs. K. Persaud scored 33, while S. Blacks supported with 29. John Sumir, C. Canterbery, R. Narine and Rahaman Khan took two wickets each for Floodlights, who replied with 136 for 4 off 16 overs. J. Sumir led the way with 33 (5 x 6), Wayne Jones 23 not out, Lalta Gainda 23 and Ramesh Narine 21.
ESPNcricinfo - Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara have lashed out at SLC secretary Nishantha Ranatunga for his handling of the news of their retirement, soon after they landed in Sri Lanka following a victorious World T20 campaign. In response, SLC issued a statement refuting J a y a w a r d e n e ’ s “unsubstantiated accusations against the secretary”, saying Ranatunga had not commented on the matter at all.* The manner in which their retirements were made public caused controversy, when chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya expressed deep disappointment at not having been made aware of the retirements first. Sangakkara had announced his retirement in a one-on-one newspaper interview, while Jayawardene did so via the ICC’s Twitter mirror campaign, in the week before their first official match. “I’m very disappointed that without asking us what we had said about our retirements to any media, our board secretary went to the media and made certain comments about us,” Jayawardene said. “If he had been a responsible person, he would not have done that. He would first have asked us what we had announced.”
Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara have clashed with the Sri Lanka board over the handling of their retirements © ICC/Twitter Jayasuriya later reconciled with the Jayawardene and Sangakkara, after he had spoken at length with the players. He had put their disagreement down to miscommunication - a sentiment Jayawardene agreed with. “We later spoke to the selector who had also made comments, and he had also been told that we had announced our retirements. However, we hadn’t said that. We had said this was our last World T20, that’s all. “I’ve now brought a letter with me saying I’m retiring from World T20, and I’ll hand that over. But I’m very disappointed about the way we were put into that mental state before a tournament like this, by the person who is responsible. That’s the true
story.” While the board admitted Jayasuriya had “personally expressed his point of view purely from a selectors perspective”, Ranatunga, it said, “had not volunteered any statement to the press regarding Mahela Jayawardene’s decision to address the media regarding his apparent retirement”. “Sri Lanka Cricket, as an institution, regrets such unsubstantiated accusations leveled against the hony. secretary ... by a senior member of the national team without verifying the facts at a public forum.” However, the board would take no further action, the statement concluded: “Sri Lanka Cricket will make no further releases on this subject matter and shall treat this matter as closed.”
Guyana hopes for two more FIBA referees By Edison Jefford The Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) is hoping for two internationally accredited referees at the end of this week, pending the successful participation of two officials in a certified clinic that is currently underway in the Cayman Islands. Rawle Toney and Sherwin Henry are currently attending the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Officials Certification Clinic, which started yesterday and will conclude on Saturday; the Guyana Basketball Officials Council (GBOC) recommended the duo. “Guyana has been without any FIBA referee since mid 2013 and the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) considers it (the Clinic) a major priority to remedy this situation,” the GABF President, Nigel Hinds told Kaieteur Sport yesterday. “The GABF is hopeful that Mr. Henry and Mr. Toney
-Their success will avoid CBC fine are successful at their physical and written exams, so Guyana can once again join the regional basketball community with having their very own FIBA active referees,” he continued. Before 2009, Henry was the only accredited FIBA referee in Guyana. Lugard Mohan and Aubrey Younge joined Henry when they completed the FIBA Officials’ Certification Clinic in June 2009 in Colorado, USA, giving Guyana a pool of three FIBA referees. However, the three officials did not undergo the recertification process, which is mandatory. The situation left Guyana without a FIBA Certified Referee. “Henry is an experienced FIBA referee, whose status has been inactive for over two years, while Toney will be seeking to obtain a FIBA referee status for the first time,” Hinds indicated.
According to the new head of the local federation, approximately $400,000 was spent to fund the Guyanese candidates to participate in the clinic. “It is hoped that GABF letters for financial support to some members of the business community will help offset the costs,” he added. The Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC), of which Guyana is a member, is affiliated to FIBA and has a requirement that states that a national team must have a FIBA-accredited referee accompany it when on tour or attending international competitions. Failing to conform to that rule could attract a fine of $1,000 on the defaulting country. This move could be seen as an action to avoid Guyana being hit with the fine since Guyana is expected to be a participant at the 2014 CBC Championships in July.
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BCB/Elizabeth Styles U-19 cricket
Chan, Looknauth and Cameron give PMCC successful start O u t s t a n d i n g performances from Arif Chan, Manoj Looknauth and Nicholas Cameron handed Port Mourant Cricket Club (PMCC) back to back victories in the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/Elizabeth Styles Under-19 cricket competition which commenced recently. Host Port Mourant defeated Whim National by a mammoth 209 runs, before beating Big Stars by 247 runs last Saturday. In the first game, PMCC batted first and scored 282 for 9, with Cameron, a former member of the Rose
H a l l To w n Yo u t h a n d Sports Club, hitting 10 fours in his 114 off 154 balls, while Looknauth had five fours and one six in his 51. Cameron, who brought up his 50 from 95 balls with five fours, added 92 for the fifth wicket with Looknauth. M. Charran led Whim National’s bowling with 4 for 47. K. Motayne claimed 3 for 33 and Akeem Blackman 2 for 67. Chan, another former member of RHTYSC grabbed 5 for 19 and Looknauth snared 3 for 22 as Whim National were dismissed for 73 in 27.3 overs in reply. Only Charran and Kundial
Deonarine with 15 each managed double figures. In their second game against Big Stars, PMCC on the back of 114 from Chan which was decorated with 15 fours off 112 balls, 42 from Looknauth (27 balls, 6x4), 31 from Samuel Kisnasammy and 30 from Samaroo piled up 309 for 7 off their 50 overs. U. George and Delroy Leitch took three wickets each for 44 and 49 runs respectively for Big Stars, who in their turn at the crease were skittled for 62 in 13 overs. Jamal Lancaster bagged 5 for 19 and Looknauth 5 for 27.
Price is Right Supermarket/UCCA Cricket Final set for this Sunday The final of the long awaited Price is Right Supermarket/Upper Corentyne Cricket Association second division cricket competition is now set for this Sunday April 13th at the No. 69 Vikings ground. The two teams in the final, Corriverton Cricket Club and No. 70 MYO are both exuding confidence and the encounter is expected to be a keenly contested affair and should go down to the wire with the teams being evenly matched. The final will be 50 overs which has been the case from the semifinal stage. This was done by
the UCCA in an effort to lift the standard of second division cricket in the area from which the Upper Corentyne first division team is being selected. The match will be played using coloured clothing and white balls to allow the selectors from the UCCA to have a better look at the top teams playing in a first division cricket environment. The match is scheduled to begin at 9:30hrs. The sponsor and UCCA officials will be on hand to meet the teams before the start of the game and to hand over the prizes at the end of the game.
The two teams will come from- Corriverton C.C: Tarik Ibrahim (captain), Jermaine Reid (vice captain), Jeremy Moore, Anthony Seeraj, Rabindra Singh, Imran Jabar, Clavern Beresford, Amzaan Appalsamy, Eric Phillips, Faoud Bacchus, Tulsiram Munesar, Rajeev Persaud & Imron Mohamed. The No. 70 M.Y.O line up is -: Niazi Khan (captain), Jameel Assad (vice-captain), Mahmood Khan, Zameer Khan, Ahmad Khan, Salim Khan, Arif Khan, Alim Khan, Saif Hamid Khan, Mohamed Asarudin, Umar Ghani & Fazir Ally.
EDFA names squad ahead of GFF U-17 Inter Association Following the successful completion of the Ansa McAl Under-1 7 l e a g u e w h i c h saw BV Triumph United emerging as the champions from the penalty spot against Buxton United, the East Demerara Footba l l Association (EDFA) has shortlisted a 23-man squad to commence preparations. Training will start tomorrow at the Buxton Community Centre Ground from 09:00hrs under the watchful eyes of Coaches Hubert McPherson, Andrew Clement and Kester Garnett. Following is the list of players named: Name Position Club Rawle Success Goalkeeper BV Triumph
United Kenduze Cooper Goalkeeper Buxton United Akomo Jack Midfield/GK Golden Stars Eon Dooker DF/MF BV Triumph United Collis Jones Defender BV Triumph United Jeremiah Rodrigues DefenderBuxton United Gregory Liverpool Defender Plaisance Shamar Bastiani Defender Ann’s Grove Maurice Barnes Defender Buxton United Quincy St. Clair Defender Golden Stars Chaves Glasglow Midfield Buxton Stars Shemar Scott Midfield Buxton Stars
Marcus Havercome Midfield BV Triumph United Dwayne King Midfield Plaisance Levi Williams Midfield Plaisance Jamal Joseph Midfield Ann’s Grove Yohan Armstrong Midfield Buxton United Adelson Abel Midfield Paradise Gerald Anthony Midfield Paradise Ablamy Robertson Midfield Golden Stars Paul Kingston Forward BV Triumph United Dimitri Grant Forward Buxton United Kelvin James Forward Mahaica
Thursday April 10, 2014
Detractors, defectors, saboteurs not needed in local football - Matthias By Rawle Welch “Detractors, defectors and saboteurs should have no place in local football”, this is according to President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Christopher Matthias, who was speaking to Kaieteur Sport during an exclusive interview last Friday. Matthias, who took over the reins of power following a FIFA/CONCACAF, mandated Electoral Congress last April after the administration of the sport had plunged into anarchy with the denial of voting rights to a few associations by the past regime, told this newspaper that those with seditious motives who’re now attempting to regain control of the sport by stuffing themselves on to the executive of some associations and clubs should receive no such patronage after decimating the governing body’s coffers. The GFF President, who has been forging a new administrative path which is being guided by good governance, accountability and transparency, said that while he anticipated resistance to the new dispensation, the obstructive efforts to once again strike at the foundations of FIFA and CONCACAF mandate by some from the past regime only serves to highlight who they are and will in no way distract the current administration in its quest to restore the good name and fortune of the sport. He said while many felt that the GFF’s work would have been severely disrupted by the withdrawal of a few members of the executive, those that remained have given the assurance to work beyond the normal call of duty to ensure that what the entity had set out to achieve was not derailed by some who by their actions only took office in an attempt to frustrate the
work of the new administration in the short term that it had. “We continue to inform the regional and world bodies about our work and we have their support so while a few from the previous administration have been busy scurrying around the globe trying to get the attention of officials, we continue to forge ahead with the tedious assignment of educating our member associations about good governance, obligatory practices for good club structure in addition to our own commitment to see the game played at all levels,” Matthias declared. On the subject of the audited reports, the GFF official would only say that it is finished and will be presented to the General Council for perusal and recommendations very soon, while adding that the auditor’s conclusions are interesting. When quizzed about the no-confidence vote brought against him by members of two associations, Matthias responded by saying, “It was the will of the Lord Almighty to have me here and I’m not afraid by their actions, if it is His will that I stay then their attempt to remove me will not happen.” There is talk that you’re not as inclusive and accommodating as you ought to be, what is your answer to these accusations? “Everyone knows that that’s a lie coming from the few who are making these claims. I firmly believe in division of labour and have publicly demonstrated such when each executive member and the area of responsibility were identified to the media.” How difficult has it been to clean up all the mess that was left by the past administration and I include the debt burden, the eradication of fear that was embedded in the
consciousness of executives of member associations and how receptive are they now to the current GFF’s attempt to develop not only the game, but their respective associations as well? “One would readily know that it would not be easy to clean up a culture of ýnon development which existed for almost twenty years. But the motivating words of many corporate as well as civil societies stir us onwards and upwards. We are happy to report that we have begun to honor our obligations due to our creditors and wish to express our heartfelt thanks for their patience. We are about development through empowerment and have adopted such a posture which has been welcomed by many associations and clubs.” Could you give an update on the impending FIFA GOAL Project? There is continuous dialogue with the Honourable Minister, Dr Frank Anthony and we anticipate a fruitful outcome since the government is committed to providing land so that football can have its own home. As you are aware, most other disciplines have their own home. The time is right ýfor football to get its own. There are some serious enquiries about the absence of a national team and Guyana’s absence from international competitions what would you say in response to those queries? We have heeded the advice of our Technical Director and have begun to build our national teams instead of just assembling them. Thus, every club has been sent the national criteria for selection so that the players can know beforehand, the requisite drills which must be perfected. Our aim is to become formidable competitors, and not just mere participants.
Brian Cookson: Tour de France could help TV with bike... From page 35 technology to enhance the experience of viewers. “One of the biggest challenges is the need to evolve while staying true to the essence of your sport,” Cookson said. “And why stop at cameras? What about having microphones on bikes or sharing rider data on screen?” Cookson recently made a controversial proposal to
move track cycling to the Winter Olympics but he maintains sport must be ready to challenge conventional practice. “The world changes and we must change with it,” Cookson added. “If we, as leaders of our sports, cannot think out of the box and have this kind of discussion in good faith then we certainly run the risk of seeing our sports stagnate.”
Meanwhile, Belgian Cycling Federation president Tom van Damme has called for football-style red and yellow cards to improve safety in the peloton. Van Damme believes it could improve riders’ discipline and lead to fewer crashes, and is calling on the UCI to act. “If riders were more disciplined, there would be fewer accidents,” he said.
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Bayern hit back to oust Man Utd Young Sunshine Girls
steamroll St Lucia 48-5
Bayern Munich celebrate a goal as they fought back to beat Man Utd. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - Manchester United’s hopes of redeeming a poor season with a surprise Champions League semi-final place were ended as holders Bayern Munich fought back to record a dominant secondleg win. David Moyes’s side had held Bayern to a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford and stunned the hosts when Patrice Evra rifled in. But Mario Mandzukic nodded in a swift equaliser before Thomas Muller’s scuffed finish put Bayern ahead. Arjen Robben then wrapped up the 4-2 aggregate win with a fine solo goal. With United already out of the Premier League title race, FA Cup and League Cup, the Champions League had been Moyes’s final chance to redeem what has been a hugely disappointing season for the 2012-13 league champions. They had been given little chance against a Bayern side who have been imperious this season, but United had produced a dogged defensive display at Old Trafford to give
themselves hope heading into Wednesday’s encounter. United needed to score at Bayern to have a chance of progressing and, with that in mind, Moyes named an attacking line-up with Wayne Rooney, fit after recovering from a toe injury, leading the line in front of Danny Welbeck, Shinji Kagawa and Antonio Valencia. It almost paid dividends inside the first 10 minutes when a long ball over the top gave Rooney space to run at goal but the England striker hesitated on the edge of the area and his shot was blocked. Valencia had an effort ruled out for offside soon after, before Bayern took control of the game. But for all their dominance in possession they did not force United goalkeeper David De Gea into a save in the first half. Their short, sharp passing was creating opportunities but decision-making in the final third was letting them down, although Robben caused an all-too-brief moment of excitement just
before half-time when he pounced on a loose ball and jinked his way into the area, only to see his shot deflected wide by Chris Smalling. That pattern of play initially continued in the second half, but just as the hour mark approached the game finally exploded into life. United stunned the home crowd when Valencia beat his man on the right to cross into the box where the ball was cleared only as far as Evra, who raced to the edge of the area and smashed a fine strike off the underside of the crossbar and into the net. The goal had Moyes and his coaching staff punching the air with delight, but the celebrations were all too brief as Bayern responded immediately. From the kick-off, the ball found its way to Ribery on the left and Mandzukic stooped in front of Evra to head his low cross beyond De Gea. Suddenly the game opened up as Rooney failed to connect properly with a shot from a promising
From page 34 monitors. Steenkamp was hit by three of four hollow-point rounds fired by Pistorius through the toilet door. One hit her behind the right ear, killing her almost instantly, pathologists had earlier told the court. Pistorius acknowledged responsibility but said between sobs: “I will not look”. Television stations carrying the feed from the court apologized to viewers as the graphic image was broadcast live. “MODEL SPORTSMAN”
With no direct witnesses, Nel’s main task is to pick holes in Pistorius’ testimony and cast doubt on his statements about a perceived burglar. He opened his questioning by asking Pistorius about his reputation as a global athletics star and strong Christian beliefs before hitting him with the reality of what took place. “You are a model for sportsmen, disabled and abled bodied sportsmen, all over the world?” Nel asked. “I think I was, My Lady. I made a mistake,” replied
Pistorius, answering to Judge Thokozile Masipa. “You killed a person, that’s what you did,” came the reply. “I made a mistake. My mistake was that I took Reeva’s life,” said Pistorius. “You killed her. You shot and killed her. Won’t you take responsibility for that?” Nel said. Earlier, Pistorius described his frantic attempts to revive Steenkamp after he found her lying on the toilet floor and how she had died in his arms, her blood pouring over his body. “I checked to see if she was breathing and she
position, while Bayern’s Mario Gotze saw a header saved. It was the home side, though, who got the crucial second goal when Robben’s low ball into the area was turned in from close range by Muller. That strike galvanised Bayern as they set about harrying a rattled United defence, Evra earning a yellow card for bringing down Robben when he charged towards the area. But Robben could not be stopped from putting the game beyond the visitors when, with defenders backing off, he ran across the edge of the area before slipping a low shot just inside the post. United famously scored twice in injury time to overturn a one-goal deficit and beat Bayern in the 1999 Champions League final, but there was to be no repeat of such heroics in this game. The home side eased to victory without further alarm to join Atletico Madrid, Chelsea and Real Madrid in Friday’s semi-final draw.
Pistorius forced to look at ...
wasn’t,” he said. “I could feel the blood was running down on me.” After several attempts, he managed to carry Steenkamp down stairs where neighbors tried to administer first aid before paramedics arrived. But Pistorius said he knew that Steenkamp - with whom he said he was planning to buy a house - was already dead. “Reeva, Reeva had already died whilst I was holding her, before the ambulance arrived, so I knew there was nothing they could do for her.”
Jamaica Observer JAMAICA’S Under-16 netballers made it two wins from two games with an effortless 48-5 victory over St Lucia at the 14th Jean Pierre Youth Netball Tournament in Antigua and Barbuda Tuesday. Goalshooter Tracy Francis sank 36 of her 45 attempts in leading Jamaica to their second consecutive win following their opening 55-14 thrashing of Dominica on Sunday. Goal attack Nicole Lewis chipped in with five goals and reserve shooter Idara McCarthy hit seven goals from eight attempts. Kamala Mangal netted all five goals for St Lucia from 10 attempts. Remarkably, her striking partner Rochelle Leah Etienne, failed to make an attempt. On Sunday, goal shooter Simone Gordon scored 51 of Jamaica’s 55 goals as they brushed aside Dominica. On Monday, T&T defeated St Lucia 25-19 and based on that performance, should not be much of a trouble to the title favourites Jamaica.
Meanwhile, Barbados made it three wins from three games, dismissing Dominica 35-24 following victories over St Vincent and Grenadines, 3020, and 36-16 over St Kitts. Today, the young Sunshine Girls will tackle Barbados in a top-of-the-table clash, while St Lucia will tackle St Kitts with St Vincent and Grenadines taking on T&T. In the Development section, Nevis are scheduled to play the Combined Youth team, and host Antigua and Barbuda play Grenada. And in this the 60th anniversary of competitive netball for the Caribbean Netball Association (CNA), international superstar Romelda Aiken of Jamaica has been nominated as one of the former Under-16 players to receive an award, which is being given to a person who has served the sport with distinction. Molly Rhone, former president of the Jamaica Netball Association and the International Federation of Netball Associations (IFNA), will also receive a Personal Achievement Award.
Brazil falling short... From page 34 say. Bungled openings of terminals from London to Denver took months to straighten out. The stakes will be high in Brazil as more than 600,000 visitors arrive for the World Cup starting in June, one of the biggest sudden influxes the country has ever seen. “People coming to Brazil are going to be shocked, especially Americans, by the how bad the airports are,” said Paul Irvine, who runs travel agency Dehouche in Rio de Janeiro. “There won’t be any catastrophic issues ... but they will be chaotic and ugly as heck,” he said. Any air travel chaos could be especially embarrassing for President Dilma Rousseff, who made a bold political bet by privatizing a handful of key airports to ready them for the tournament, accelerating work that had languished under state control. The move broke with the ideology of her leftist Workers’ Party. If those airports fail to deliver the smooth service that helped to justify the privatizations, the issue could quickly become an election campaign issue as Rousseff seeks a second term in October. The airport concessions are a closely watched first step in her more than $100 billion plan to draw
private investment to public infrastructure projects. Construction delays at publicly administered airports have been far more dramatic. At the start of last month, airport overhauls in seven World Cup host cities were only half finished or worse, according to Infraero, the government agency that oversees airport operations. Still, the privately run projects are drawing scrutiny. Civil aviation authority ANAC has redoubled its inspections of three privatized airports since learning at the start of this year that work was behind proposed timelines. ADJUSTING EXPECTATIONS At the international airport serving the capital Brasilia, the racket of jackhammers rings through an open concourse, where passengers riding up an escalator can see a six-foot wide hole in the floor behind a boarded-off area. One new terminal is set to open in weeks and the private operator promises another by May, although municipal authorities are downplaying that possibility. At Guarulhos Airport outside of Sao Paulo, Brazil’s biggest city, the glistening facade of the new Terminal 3 hides an interior still missing several walls, ceilings and basic operating systems.
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Thursday April 10, 2014
Official Song released; Official Album tracklist revealed
Wisden takes aim at Big Three
FIFA and Sony Music Entertainment are excited to reveal the tracklist for one of the most eagerly-anticipated albums of this year: “One Love, One Rhythm: The Official 2014 FIFA World Cup™ Album”. Music and football fans all over the world now also have the chance to download “We Are One (Ole Ola)”, the Official Song of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™, which was released yesterday. Following the announcement earlier this year of the artists who will sing the Official Song and Official Anthem, the Official Album features several world-renowned musical superstars who will add their distinctive sounds to the rhythm of football’s flagship event. Shakira, who sang the Official Song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ and Ricky Martin, who has recorded the winning track from this year’s Supersong contest, are joined by Carlinhos Brown, Bebel Gilberto and several other leading names from the Brazilian music scene. The Official Album will go on sale on May 12, with pre-order available as of yesterday. Thierry Weil, FIFA Marketing Director, welcomed the news, saying; “We are very excited about the release of One Love, One
Rhythm: The Official FIFA World Cup™ Album. The partnership with Sony Music Entertainment has allowed us to add some of the world’s biggest musical superstars to the FIFA World Cup line-up. I’m sure that music and football fans all over the world will enjoy this great combination of top international stars and fantastic Brazilian artists and that this album will add great rhythm to the footballing action in Brazil.” Today (yesterday) also marks the release of the Official Song of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ - “We Are One (Ole Ola)”, written and coproduced by Pitbull and featuring Jennifer Lopez and Brazilian star Claudia Leitte. Click here to listen to the song which will be the soundtrack to this year’s event. The tracklist for “One Love, One Rhythm: The Official 2014 FIFA World Cup™ Album” is as follows. Both standard and deluxe editions of the album will be available: 1. Pitbull feat. Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte We Are One (Ole Ola) (The Official 2014 FIFA World Cup TM Song) 2. Santana & Wyclef feat. Avicii & Alexandre Pires Dar Um Jeito (We Will Find A Way) (The Official
2014 FIFA World Cup TM Anthem) 3. Arlindo Cruz - Tatu Bom De Bola (The Official 2014 FIFA World CupTM Mascot Song) 4. Ricky Martin - Vida (Spanglish Version) 5. David Correy - The World Is Ours 6. Psirico - Lepo Lepo 7. Sérgio Mendes & Carlinhos Brown - One Nation 8. Shakira – La La La (Brasil 2014) feat. Carlinhos Brown 9. The Isley Brothers - It’s Your Thing (Studio Rio Version) 10. Bebel Gilberto and Lang Lang - Tico Tico 11. Adelén – Olé (Stadium Anthem Mix) 12. Magic! - This Is Our Time (Agora e’a nossa horra) 13. Baha Men – Night & Day (Carnival Mix) 14. Rodrigo Alexey feat. Preta Gil – Go, Gol Deluxe Edition also includes the following bonus tracks: Pitbull feat. Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte – We Are One (Ole Ola) (The Official 2014 FIFA World Cup TM Song) (Olodum Mix) Arlindo Cruz - Tatu Bom De Bola (The Official 2014 FIFA World Cup™ Mascot Song) (DJ Meme Remix)
SAO PAULO/BRASILIA (Reuters) - With less than 10 weeks until the start of the World Cup, work on crucial new airport terminals has fallen behind in most of the dozen Brazilian host cities, heightening the risk of overcrowding and confusion during the tournament. A temporary canvas terminal will be used instead of a planned airport expansion to receive fans in Fortaleza, which will host six matches
including Brazil’s game against Mexico and a quarterfinal. Officials are already preparing alternatives for other cities. “Other airports have not said anything yet, but they will probably have to come up with contingencies,” said Carlos Ozores, a principal at aviation consultancy ICF International who has consulted for Brazilian airlines and airport operators. Concern over Brazil’s
airports is especially acute since they represent some of the tournament’s most lasting investments. A host of other transportation projects have been scrapped or postponed, adding to criticism that the World Cup will leave few long-term benefits for ordinary Brazilians. Quick fixes and lastminute deliveries are a recipe for chaos in the complex aviation industry, analysts (Continued opn page 33)
Brazil falling short in rush to overhaul World Cup airports
ESPNcricinfo - England’s fallen cricketers can finally breathe a sigh of relief - they are not the biggest cause for concern so far as one of the game’s most influential, and widely heard, voices is concerned. Normally, an Ashes whitewashing described as the worst result in England’s 137-year Test history would earn top billing in Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack. And most editions of the Big Yellow Book, certainly those published during the past three or four decades, would have seen the editor devoting more than five paragraphs of his Notes to the sacking of a box office superstar like Kevin Pietersen. But while England struggling captain, former coach, miscalculating selectors, one time golden boy-turned he-who-mustnever-darker-our-door-again and all - are examined in turn, it is another subject entirely that first encourages Wisden onto its soapbox. “Cricket is appallingly administered and is vulnerable to economic exploitation by the one country powerful to exploit it and the two countries prepared to lend their plans credibility,” Lawrence Booth writes in Wisden’s leader column or Notes by the Editor. Step forward (and don’t take a bow) India, England and Australia. Yes, it was the “big three’s” 2014 masterplan for world cricket that bothered Wisden more than anything else as its 151st edition was being put to bed. “The boards of India, England and Australia had
quietly crafted a document which claimed to safeguard the game’s future while more obviously safeguarding their own,” Booth writes. “In sum, the BCCI wanted an even larger slice of the ICC pie, and the ECB and Cricket Australia happily acquiesced, knowing their portion would grow too. The rest were assured they would be better off. And who could object to a world with more money for everyone? “Here was a colonial style divide and rule. Here was the realpolitik of modern cricket. It was hard to read this any other way: the rich would be getting a whole lot richer.” Elsewhere in Wisden, Giles Clarke, the ECB’s Chairman, is given two pages to state the case for the defence, although state the case for “our vision for a better game” is how he would put it. “Following much discussion, with two meetings in Dubai and a third in Singapore, agreement was
PRETORIA (Reuters) - A South African prosecutor forced Oscar Pistorius on Wednesday to look at a forensic photograph of the head of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp after it was destroyed by a gunshot fired by the Olympic and Paralympic track star. In a dramatic opening to his cross-examination of Pistorius, prosecutor Gerrie Nel made him say that he had killed Steenkamp then later confronted him with the photograph showing the side and back of her skull matted with blood and brains. “Take responsibility for what you have done,” Nel said, drawing gasps from the public gallery and causing Pistorius to bury his head in his hands in the witness stand, rock from side to side
and weep. The double amputee sprinter, once revered across the world for his triumph over adversity, faces life in prison if convicted in the Pretoria High Court of the murder of Steenkamp, a 29-year-old law graduate and model. His defence hinges on his contention that he thought he was firing at an intruder when he shot Steenkamp through a toilet door in his luxury Pretoria home on February 14 - Valentine’s Day - 2013. Nel, renowned as one of South Africa’s toughest state attorneys, sought to show the 27-year-old was a hot-headed character who loved to play with guns. He asked Pistorius, well-known as a weapons enthusiast, if he knew what a “zombie stopper” was, to which the defendant
Giles Clarke
reached and resolutions were passed on February 8,” Clarke writes. “As so often in cricket administration, these were widely - perhaps deliberately - misinterpreted. We had to harden ourselves against uninformed and biased comment to deliver our vision for a better and more financially secure cricketing world.” Clarke and co are no doubts still hardening themselves, so to speak especially should they read comments like one in Booth’s notes that refers to India’s “English and Australian lapdogs.” “The Test game needed to be nurtured as the primary format,” Clarke writes. And he adds: “The FTP has not been abolished but left to individual boards to arrange among themselves. It has been extended to 2023 with the top eight nations playing each other. And India do not get a veto.” Contrast that to what Booth reads into the Big Three’s original draft document (which was leaked to ESPNcricinfo) and which Wisden’s editor believes “may reveal the true motivation, before compromise reins it in.” Booth states: “At its heart lay the BCCI’s desire not merely to oust the ICC as the game’s governing body but to wean themselves, eventually, off all but the most lucrative international fixtures, and to create more space for domestic Twenty20.” So you pay your money (£50 in the case of both hardback and softcover versions of Wisden 2014) and you take your choice.
Pistorius forced to look at ‘exploded’ head of girlfriend answered no. After a brief adjournment, the court then viewed video footage broadcast before the trial by Britain’s Sky News of Pistorius firing a .50 caliber handgun at a watermelon at a shooting range. As the melon disintegrates, Pistorius says off-camera: “It’s a lot softer than brains. But (bleep) it’s like a zombie stopper.” Nel then pushed the track star, saying he had shot the melon because he wanted to see what a bullet hitting a person’s head looked like. “You know that the same happened to Reeva’s head. It exploded. I’m going to show you,” he said, before projecting the forensic photograph of Steenkamp’s head on the court (Continued on page 33)
Thursday April 10, 2014
Kaieteur News
Elizabeth Styles U-19 50 overs cricket
Ramsaroop 128, Naresh Deo 105, Sewkarran 91 & 5-12, Kumar 6-33, outstanding
Page 35
Former U.S. wrestling star The Ultimate Warrior dies at 54: WWE The Ultimate Warrior (joe.ie.com)
Thameshwar Kumar
Parmanand Ramdhan
Nick Ramsaroop
Avishkar Sewkarran
Rivalry in the Elizabeth Styles Under-19 50 overs cricket competition in Berbice continued recently with more outstanding performances. Berbice Under-19 batsman Nick Ramsaroop blasted 128 (9x4 5x6), Avishkar Sewkarran stroked 91 (8x4) and Guyana Under17 all-rounder Parmanand Ramdhan hit 67 (7x4 3x6) to spearhead Blairmont Community Centre to a mammoth 351-8 off 45 overs against D’Edward, the highest score by a team in the competition so far. Ramsaroop and Sewkarran featured in an opening stand of 227 in 30 overs. When D’Edward replied they had to contend with Berbice Under-15 pacer
Rameshwari Somwaru who snared 5-6 from 6 overs and medium pacer Sewkarran who rounded off a fine all round display with 5-12 from 7 overs to topple D’Edward for a disappointing 24. Crabwood Creek Risings opening batsman Naresh Deo slammed 105 (3x4 9x6) in their total of 185 off 30.2 overs against No.70 Young Star whose off spinner Thameshwar Kumar grabbed 6-36. Deo’s effort however went in vain as Kumar slammed 71 (6x4 6x6) to steer Young Star to an easy six 6 wicket win. Clifton Lindee fell short of a ton by three runs (15x4 1x6) and Kwesi Mickle 60 (6x4) to steer Police to 268 in 43.2 overs against
Edinburgh. When Edinburgh replied, Police off spinner Leon Andrews took 5-21 from 7 overs to help destroy Edinburgh for 139 despite a well played 70 (11x4 1x6) from opening batsman, Joseph Giddings. Summarised scores: At Blairmont - Blairmont Community Centre mauled D’Edward by 327 runs. Blairmont Community Centre 351 for 8 in 45 overs; N ick Rams aroop 128, Avishkar Sewkarran 91, Parmanand Ramdhan 67, Allosia Murphy 2-3, Raymond Braithwaite 2-62, Andre Rambarran 2-75. D’Edward 24 in 14 overs; Rameshwari Somwaru 5-6, Avishkar Sewkarran 5-12. At Crabwood Creek N o . 7 0 Yo u n g S t a r
hammered Crabwood Creek Risings by 6 wickets. Crabwood Creek Risings 185 in 30.2 overs; Naresh Deo 105, Thameshwar K u m a r 6 - 3 3 , Vi e n d r a Gooniah 2-39. No. 70 Young Star 190-4 in 29.4 overs; Thameshwar Kumar 71, Vi e n d r a G o o n i a h 3 1 , Parmeshwar Chatterpaul 27, Delon Harvey 3-31. At Edinburgh - Police trounced Edinburgh by 129 runs. Police 268 in 43.2 overs; Clifton Lindee 97, Kwesi Mickle 60, Vijay Mangra 2-11, Clifford Welcome 2-30, Wally Latif 2-37, Joseph Giddings 2-52. Edinburgh 139 in 35.4 overs; Joseph Giddings 70, Leon Andrews 5-21 Kwesi Mickle 2-17, Steffon Anderson 233.
Brian Cookson: Tour de France could help TV with bike cameras BBC Sport - Tour de France cyclists could have cameras attached to bikes to enhance the experience of television audiences in an effort to attract more fans. International Cycling Union (UCI) president Brian
Cookson believes the sport must innovate to promote itself. “We need to embrace innovation and sell our sport. We will look at technology, such as cameras on bikes,” he said.
“Imagine being able to share Chris Froome’s view as came up the ChampsElysees to win the Tour last summer.” Cookson, who was elected UCI president in September last year, made
the suggestions during a keynote speech at the Sport Accord Convention in Turkey. The 62-year-old Briton believes cycling needs to remain at the cutting edge of (Continued on page 32)
(Reuters) - The Ultimate Wa r r i o r, o n e o f U . S . professional wrestling’s most celebrated names, has died at the age of 54, days after being inducted into the Wo r l d Wr e s t l i n g Entertainment Inc Hall of Fame, the company said late on Tuesday. “WWE is shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the most iconic WWE S u p e r s t a r s e v e r, T h e Ultimate Warrior,” the Stamford, Connecticutbased company said on its website. The Ultimate Warrior, whose given name was James Hellwig, began his WWE career in 1987 and rose to become one of the biggest stars in WWE history, the company said, highlighting an “epic encounter” in which he defeated Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania VI to become a WWE Champion. The cause of his death was not given. He was added to the Hall of Fame on April 5. “We are grateful that just days ago, Warrior had the opportunity to take his rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame and was also able to appear at
Wr e s t l e M a n i a 3 0 a n d Monday Night Raw to address his legions of fans,” Wo r l d Wr e s t l i n g Entertainment said. The 6-foot, 2-inch tall, 280-pound (127 kg) wrestler commanded the ring in his signature neon garb and long, blond hair, and face paint, WWE said. His family could not immediately be reached, and an email sent through his website was not immediately answered. In a statement on his website peppered with sarcasm, Hellwig expounded on philosophy and funneling energy from the ring into writing, motivational speaking, and his family life after retiring in the late 1990s. “Ultimate Warrior ran because I was running him. He was intense because I already was. Whatever I am doing - wrestling, writing, working out, speaking, even weaving pot holders - I am going to do it with action and intensity,” Hellwig wrote. “I have built an incredibly empowered life on my OWN terms. As a devoted husband and father, I could not have customordered a more loving, (Continued on page 29)
Detractors, defectors, saboteurs not needed in local football - Matthias
Guyana hopes for two more FIBA referees P.31 -Their success will avoid CBC fine
P.32
Sherwin Henry
Christopher Matthias
Rawle Toney Nigel Hinds
Atletico stun Spanish rivals Barcelona P.30
FIFA World Cup
Koke’s early goal gave them a 2-1 aggregate win over the Catalan giants. (Getty Images)
countdown Tournament starts in: 62 Days
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