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Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
A vibrant plan can provide space Some ideas are accepted as valid but their implications may be so enormous and profound that their implementation never gets off the drawing board. This has been the fate of the idea that Guyana urgently needs a new capital. Despite the development of massive new housing schemes, it would appear that the idea of a new city has not even been transferred to a drawing board. The idea of creating a new capital had arisen even in colonial times. It was widely conceded that the entrenchment of settlements on the razor-thin coastline was holding back the development of a country that had been richly blessed with many resources in its interior. The colonial power, however, never mustered the necessary energy to go beyond some mutterings about linking the said new capital to some projected railway to the Brazilian border. By the time the Brazilians showed the rest of the world in the sixties how a spanking new capital (and city) could be carved out of a virgin jungle, the British had lost interest in developing Guyana and were flailing around for an exit strategy. But what is our excuse? Added to the need to get our people’s attention focused on our continental destiny has been the bombshell of global warming. Very simply put: global warming will in the very near future - four decades at the best? - cause the oceans to rise at least one metre. When this is added to the fact that we are already below sea level, then it does not take a rocket scientist to figure out what is ahead. The maintenance of our sea walls has already placed enormous strains to our budget and it is only with the generosity of the European Union in particular that we have literally been able to keep our heads above water. A rise of one metre in the level of the ocean will make the upkeep and even survival of the sea walls completely untenable. What we need at this time are visionary leaders who can move the idea of a new capital from the fringe of the consciousness of a few concerned citizens into a grand plan that can galvanise our people with a concrete plan for the literal construction of a new Guyana. At a minimum there ought to be a committee established that would bring together the experts in the field who can sketch out the parameters of what it would take for us to establish a new capital. For instance, do we take the plunge and move the capital, as did Brazil, deep into our interior, or do we move it not too far inland in our Hilly, Sand and Clay Region that abuts our coastland? There is much to be said for the latter plan. There would be no need for a massive movement of citizens into the jungle and it is this concern that has been the greatest deterrent to potential settlers who may want to move from the coast. Secondly, if as it currently appears, our policy makers are going to seriously invest resources in the road to Brazil given that the Takutu River has been bridged, the design of a new capital can probably be incorporated into that scheme. It has been touted that the Brazilians would need more than one port and that the road could be extended to the Ancient County to utilise the deep water harbour potential of the Berbice River. This offers greater scope to the area within which we can locate the new capital. In the short term once we have a plan, new government initiatives that include the expansion of its building stock can set the ball rolling by locating them at the new site. We have seen this in the continued development of Boa Vista in Brazil next door. They laid out the outline of their new city around the village that existed in the sixties and gradually these have been filled in. Finally, the creation of a new capital may remove the dog-eat-dog attitude that has developed within so many of our politicians. The possibilities opened up by a new capital may open their eyes to the fact that a vibrant plan can provide space – of all types – for all of us, and that development can be a win-win situation for all Guyanese.
Friday April 11, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
Sugar workers were fooled to join in a protest that was not called for DEAR EDITOR, It is with great concern that I am penning this letter to your column because of what took place on April 9th in front of the Parliament Building, whereby sugar workers were fooled to join the PPP in a protest that was not called for. As sugar workers from the Blairmont Estate was about the take the lorries to go to work on this said day, the GAWU representatives stopped them from going to work and told them that they will have to go and protest in Georgetown because the AFC and APNU have cut the money for Guysuco. The workers were told that if they joined in the protest they will be receiving their day’s pay, free drinks and food. So, some opted for the free money and ride, while others went to work. Mr. Editor, it is sad that sugar workers are being constantly fooled by this government and most of all they are using the sugar workers as a political football for their personal gains. More over what is sad is that the workers didn’t even know what the cause they are protesting for, many say that they were informed that AFC\APNU had cut the budget for the workers and Guysuco. Brothers and sisters in the sugar industry, it is very sad to see that you were fooled and yet you took to the streets to protest for something that was not even before the National Assembly
for voting as yet. However, what I find really strange is that there is no raise of pay for you the workers in the sugar industry for 2014. As I had the opportunity to listen to both the Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Mr. Komal Chand in Parliament during the budget debates 2014, it was shocking that none of these men called for increased wages and salaries for the sugar workers or better working conditions for 2014. One would have thought that Komal Chand who is the President of GAWU, the union that represents the rights of the workers, would have at least asked for an increase for the workers in 2014. This shows that none of them are interested in the welfare of the sugar workers, neither the PPP\C because none of the MP’s on their side (PPP) stand up for the workers. The AFC MP’s Dr. Ramayya, Kemraj Ramjattan and Moses Nagamootoo all stand up for the rights of the sugar workers and asked several questions as to better wages and salaries for the workers and for a better working conditions in 2014, but were constantly told that there is no money for the workers at this stage or in 2014. Brothers and sisters, these workers will have to toil day and night to better the industry and yet those in authorities do not care for them, all they are doing is
using the sugar workers for their personnel gains and benefits. To see the Ministers of government being so bold and bare face to lie to this nation by telling workers that AFC\APNU cut the allocation to Guysuco before it was voted on in Parliament is a shame and disgrace to the working class of this country, more over a disgrace to the educated people to see that these people hold some of the highest offices in this land and lie just to get political power. My questions to Guysuco, the Minister of Agriculture and the PPP is: how much money was wasted on this so-called protest? How much cane was harvested on this day and what was the worker turnout like (when Blairmont Factory had no cane to grind)? Who funded this Protest? And more importantly, what amount of increase in salary\wages will be given to sugar workers for 2014? Our brothers and sisters in the sugar industry must now live with it for 2014. There is no increase for them and that they have caused upon themselves by jointing the PPP\C to put the money to Guysuco and none to them. They agree to the no raise of pay for 2014 by jointing the PPP\C in the so-called Protest. My question to the workers is: will the PPP join you in your protest for better wages\salaries for 2014? Abel Seetaram
A policy of ‘academic marginalization’ DEAR EDITOR, The recent announcement by Presidential adviser Gail Teixeira that the government is seriously thinking of establishing the local law school in light of the recent decision taken by the Council of Legal Education to no longer grant the quota system allowed for the twenty five LLB students from the University of Guyana is a step in the right direction. The Council of Legal Education seems to be very short sighted in their management of the three law schools. If you have a total of five institutions (The three UWI branches, UG and University of London external program) turning out students with LLB degrees, then one would expect the CLE to increase the physical infrastructure of the three law schools to accommodate the growing number of students that want to complete their two years practical training at these institution to acquire the (legal Education Certificate) which would enable them to practice law in the
commonwealth Caribbean. With students paying US$24,000 in fees for the two years of study, it clearly shows that CLE can make the necessary improvement to its infrastructure to accommodate the growing numbers and be economically sustainable; discriminating against non UWI LLB degree holders seems so retrogressive for an institution that supposed to be forward thinking and is tasked with the responsibility of providing CARICOM with the necessary skilled legal personnel to enhance their respective legal sector. The implementation of the entrance examination by the Council of Legal Education (CLE) in which non UWI LLB degree holders have to write an entrance exam and succeed at such in order to gain entry into any one the three law schools is very discriminatory and is designed by personnel with an elitists colonial mentality to exclude large segments of society from having access to the practical training that is required
for them to become attorneys. Why should a student who would have successfully completed his/her LLB/JD now be compelled to write an entrance exam to enter law school because their degree was not granted by UWI? Is the CLE implying that non UWI institutions are not of the same quality in terms of their teaching and student output? It is rather unfortunate that a major academic institution in CARICOM can perpetuate a policy of ‘academic marginalization’, a policy that was alive and well during the colonial era and is now being embraced by policy planners tasked with providing equal opportunities to access legal education by those seeking to advance their legal careers. The local law school when established should be named the Desiree Bernard Law School in recognition of her outstanding contribution made to the legal profession in Guyana and the Commonwealth Caribbean. Michael Baird Jr
Nobody charged the sugar workers with wanting handouts from the govt. DEAR EDITOR, In the face of threats by the PPP to turn any denial of the government’s 6 billion dollars subsidy for the sugar industry into a racist act against the predominantly East Indian sugar workers, the Joint Parliamentary Opposition voted for the subsidy. Sugar workers turned out in protest in front of the parliament. At least one Opposition Member reportedly spoke to them. There were no police arrests. Nobody
charged the sugar workers with wanting handouts from the government. I am not saying the Opposition buckled as I am not opposed to the sugar subsidy. Despite the problems with the sugar industry, too many poor people depend on sugar for their livelihood. And I do believe that in ethnically divided societies, policy making must always take cognizance of the ethnic consequences. But two years ago when the government moved to cut the
Electricity Subsidy to Linden, they were accused of wanting freeness. The government refused to back down. Not a single PPP member went to speak with them. When they protested they were shot at by the police—three dead and several injured. When Public Servants recently refused the government’s paltry wage increase, the government stood its ground. If we do not have two Guyanas yet, we are extremely close David Hinds
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
This is a dangerous The Guyana Legion and the situation for many reasons ex-GDF Association are one DEAR EDITOR, In today’s Kaieteur News [K/N] there is a story captioned “Super salaries are paid to keep skilled labour Says Rohee” In that article among other nonsense Rohee tells us in response to a previous 2012 K/N article captioned “Govt. insists no super salaries paid to contract workers.” “that the contract workers are being paid on par with public servants” I cannot agree with Rohee and I would have to say that the KN is very much more right that even they know. Recently, since it is assumed that I know a bit more about the management and technology of agriculture than the ordinary man, since I worked in agriculture first as a sugar cane technician, then manager of a sugar estate for almost two decades, I was asked to render an analysis on the Ministry of Agriculture’s Budget” First of all, the main body of the MOA budget is itemised as line items 211, 212, 213, 214. Item 211 is the MOA Administration, 212 Crops and Livestock division, 213 the Fisheries Department and 214 and the Hydromet. department. The four sections visualise a total allocation of $356.775 million in salaries, 9.398,234 billion in Other Charges and 3.578,190 in Capital expenditure. The analysis or expansion of line item 211, the main Administration of the MOA, to respond to Mr. Kohee, is on page 100 of volume one of the estimates, item 6111 where we see the details of the 211 MOA’s Administration and I direct Rohee to it, since he thinks that we are all idiots and don’t see the vile agenda his government is executing
in this matter. The total MOA requirement for employment costs under this head is of $350.222 million, which will be required to pay the 200 employees working under this head. We see that 139 of the 200 employees are contracted employees earning 302.101 million [we all know what this is; it is a way to employ friends and family of the ruling party at salaries and conditions which are much more favourable than the negotiated wage structure of the public servants], so 139 contracted employees will earn $302.101 million, an average earning of [$302.101 million/139=] $2,173,388 each, and the remaining 61 legitimate employees will be earning [$350.101$302.101=$48.000/61 =0.786.000] a total of $48.000 million divided by 61 employees i.e. $786 thousand each for the entire year, whilst the contracted employees will be earning $2,173,388 each per year. For numerous reasons this is a dangerous situation and I sum them up in no particular order of importance. 1. This estimate of the national budget [and is repeated across all Ministries in this budget] just tells the opposition that there are 139 contracted employees. We are not told what categories they belong to, so analysing the staffing of the MOA Administration, who are technical, skilled, who are Administrative etc. is practically impossible. 2. These people are
probably of one political alliance and are not unionised, not to mention probably one ethnic group and their salaries are adjusted by around 45% upward every year! We don’t even know if they pay NIS or taxes, in other words the salaries of the contracted workers, all of them, regardless of whether they are Administrative staff or cleaner, doubles every two years. The regular unionised workers get the usual five percent per annum. 3. If a party other than the PPP gets control of the government in this country, guess what would happen if you have to regularise 139 of 200 employees? It would be total chaos for anyone who wanted to address this unfair situation. 4. The wickedness of the PPP to set in place a situation like this defies description, and it is done mainly to undermine the unions and the opposition; since in a budget of $350.222 million for all of the staff of the MOA, the contracted employees now earn $302.101 million in salaries i.e. 86.25% of the total employment costs under heading 211, and the regular staff now only ear 13.75% of the total employment allocation. We have to stop this now, it’s wrong, it’s anti-working class, it’s unlawful since the unions are being marginalised and gives credence to the current accusations of ethnic cleansing. What I have recorded here is very similar to what obtains in the fisheries and Hydromet. sections. Tony Vieira
DEAR EDITOR, A resolution to amalgamate the Guyana Legion and the Ex-GDF Association was welcomed with great applause and excitement. The resolution which was delivered by Frank Bishpan(Colonel Retired) and was seconded by a ninety year old World War II Veteran, Gladwyn Nestor. The resolution attracted a one hundred percent vote in favour. This birthed a new organization for Military Veterans which will now be recognized and renamed “Guyana Veterans Legion” A new Constitution was presented to the Membership by the President George Gomes(Lieutenant- Colonel Retired). The new Constitution evoked extensive discussions before being endorsed by all present. Highlighted in the Constitution were (a) The
New Name of the Organisation, (b) The New Motto, (c) Specific and Improved benefits for World War Veterans, among other things. This Special General Members Meeting was held at its Headquarters on Carifesta Avenue, Sunday April 6, 2014 at which attendance was in excess of two hundred members. The meeting was chaired by the President of the Organisation
while greetings were extended by visiting representatives of the New York and Canada Chapters of the Ex-GDF Association Meetings at the Guyana Veterans Headquarters will be held on the first Sunday of each month at 14:00hrs. The new Executive will pay visits to the Berbice and Linden Branches. Eon Andrews Public Relations Officer Guyana Veterans Legion
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Opposition blocks Specialty Hospital, - Health Ministry grilled $1.1B Amerindian fund over prices paid for drugs In the first of its promised cuts to this year’s National Budget, the Opposition yesterday voted against the Indian-funded US$18M Specialty Hospital and a $1.1B provision for the Amerindian Development Fund. The blocking of the $910M for the controversial hospital slated for Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara, and the $1.1B set aside for the Amerindian fund immediately sparked condemnation from the Government side, which said that the action has undermined the possibilities of talks with the Opposition refusing even at the last moment to say what its concerns are with respect to the budget. A m e r i n d i a n representatives in the National Assembly for the Opposition insisted, during a hasty press conference, that they want a clear plan from Government on how the fund is being spent, with Toshaos and villagers complaining that the monies are benefitting mainly handpicked representatives of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic who collect $30,000 monthly and do virtually nothing. An attempt for a possible resolution on the Specialty Hospital during a break failed, as no meeting was held. Amendments to the National Budget have created great controversy, dividing the National Assembly in no uncertain terms. The matter went to court and earlier this year, there was a ruling that the National Assembly can only approve or disapprove the estimates. It will be up to the Finance Minister to amend those estimates. On Wednesday, Speaker of the House, Raphael
Trotman, proposed that a subcommittee be established that will consider any possible amendments. Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, said yesterday that no notice was given to the Government side except for a late email which indicated that there were concerns over the Specialty Hospital, the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) and an allocation of $413M for Community Policing. The first of the estimates on the agenda for the afternoon was the $5.7B for the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) with questions over the companies supplying drugs and medical supplies. According to Health Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, the companies include New GPC, International Pharmaceutical Agency (IPA) and Pharmagen. Present also in the National Assembly was GPHC’s Chief Executive Officer, Michael Khan. It was disclosed that Khan was earning $869,000 monthly while the Director of Medical and Professional Services was being paid $771,000. There were also questions over how one ambulance could cost $8M while another allocation for $117M was for 12 ambulances. Leader of the Opposition’s Alliance For Change, Khemraj Ramjattan, requested details of what percentage of the $1.8B set aside for drug supplies, the New GPC would be receiving in contracts. That company has been embroiled in accusations by the Opposition that it was being favoured in receiving contracts. New GPC is owned by Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’
Amerindian Members of Parliament from the Opposition side during a press conference yesterday to defend the cutting of the $1.1B Amerindian Development Fund.
Health Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran and GPHC’s CEO, Michael Khan Ramroop, a close friend of former President Bharrat Jagdeo. Ramjattan also wanted information as to what measures were in place to determine whether Guyana was receiving the best possible prices for drugs. Billions of dollars are being spent annually on procurement, with New GPC
receiving the lion’s share in contracts. When it came time to vote, both of the Opposition factions made it clear that they were not against development but wanted proper details of the spending. The specialty hospital was part of the budget under the Health Ministry’s Regional and Clinical Services which totaled $1.35B. That entire allocation was voted against by the Opposition. It affected capital funding for the construction and upgrading of health facilities, doctors’ quarters, purchases of ambulances and vehicles and of medical equipment. Opposition Leader, David Granger, said that the door was opened for negotiations even at this stage with the
Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai
possibility of the other allocations under the section being approved. The total Health Ministry budget was for $10.3B. Meanwhile, Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai, denied that the $1.1B Amerindian Development Fund was a political ploy. She listed several villages which have been benefitting from training with at least two persons being trained in each sector for every village. The $1.1B funding was not approved. Members of Parliament from the Amerindian community, and sitting on the Opposition side, in defence, declared that their information was much different from Government’s. During a press conference, the Parliamentarians said that the
ministry failed to present any report that measures the impact of its Youth Apprenticeship and Entrepreneurial Programme (YAEP) on Amerindians. They wanted a review of the programme to ensure that the “large amount of money being sought is to be expended for serious educational and not political purposes.” They accused the Ministry of choosing the Community Support Officers who generally do not seem in tune with the villages they are working with. The MPs said that they have “decided not to support the use of the ADF funds for YAED without the assurance that the programme will be put on a sound, non-political, education foundation.”
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
Russia warns Europe of gas supply cuts over Ukraine debt MOSCOW (Reuters) President Vladimir Putin warned European leaders yesterday Russia would cut natural gas supplies to Ukraine if it did not pay its bills and said this could lead to a reduction of onward deliveries to Europe. In a letter to the leaders of 18 countries, he demanded urgent talks with Europe on pulling Ukraine’s economy out of crisis but made clear his patience was running out over Kiev’s $2.2 billion gas debt to its former Soviet master. His comments were Russia’s most explicit threat to cut off gas to Ukraine, a move that could worsen a dispute over Moscow’s annexation of Crimea that has resulted in the worst EastWest crisis since the end of the Cold war in 1991. “...Gazprom is compelled to switch over to advance payment for gas deliveries and, in the event of further violation of the conditions of payment, will completely or partially cease gas deliveries,” Putin said in the letter, sent to European leaders including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whose country is the largest consumer of Russian gas in the 28-nation EU. “Undoubtedly, this is an extreme measure. We fully realize that this increases the risk of (Ukraine) siphoning off natural gas passing through Ukraine’s territory and heading to European consumers,” Putin wrote in the letter, seen by Reuters.
Vladimir Putin Russia meets 30 percent of Europe’s natural gas demand and half of its gas transit to the EU goes through Ukraine. State-controlled gas producer Gazprom stopped pumping gas to Ukraine during price disputes in the winters of 2005-2006 and 20082009, leading to reduced supplies in European countries that receive Russian gas via pipelines that cross Ukraine. White House spokesman Jay Carney said he had not seen Putin’s comments but: “We’ve made clear in the past that it is wholly inappropriate to use energy exports to achieve diplomatic or geopolitical objectives. “We’re in constant conversation with our European partners on matters like this,” Carney told reporters on Air Force One, President Barack Obama’s
plane. “But again that’s just a broad statement. I haven’t seen that latest report.” Kiev failed to meet a deadline on Monday to pay for its March gas supplies. On Wednesday Putin discussed with his government how to respond but opted to hold talks with Europe before pressing ahead with any new punitive action. “The situation is urgent,” Putin’s spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, told reporters. In the letter, Putin called for talks involving economy, finance and energy ministers on “concerted actions to stabilise Ukraine’s economy” and ensure Russian gas deliveries “We must lose no time in beginning to coordinate concrete steps. It is towards this end that we appeal to our European partners,” Putin wrote. He said Ukraine’s economic crisis was partly caused by unbalanced trade with the EU. “It goes without saying that Russia is prepared to participate in the effort to stabilize and restore Ukraine’s economy. However, not in a unilateral way, but on equal conditions with our European partners,” Putin wrote. Russia has nearly doubled the price it charges Ukraine for gas since the ouster in February of President Viktor Yanukovich, who had pleased Putin by spurning landmark trade and political deals with the EU in favour of closer Russia ties. Ukraine says the price increase is politically motivated.
Russian MPs want Gorbachev probed for treason over USSR breakup Moscow (AFP) - A group of Russian MPs has formally requested that prosecutors investigate former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev for treason over the breakup of the Soviet Union, one lawmaker said yesterday. Ivan Nikitchuk, a deputy with the Communist party, said recent events and the Ukraine crisis in particular have led five MPs, including two from the ruling United Russia party, to ask Prosecutor General Yury Chaika to probe Gorbachev, 83. “We asked to prosecute him and those who helped him destroy the Soviet Union for treason of national interests,” Nikitchuk told AFP, adding that Soviet citizens in 1991 were against the country’s breakup. Seeking to create a more open and prosperous Soviet Union through glasnost and
perestroika, Gorbachev ended up inadvertently unleashing forces that swept the country he had sought to preserve from the map and himself from power. “The consequences of that destruction can be felt today in the conflicts that we have seen,” said Nikitchuk. He added that this included not only Ukraine but also in other former Soviet countries over the past two decades. In February, a popular pro-Western uprising in Ukraine ousted pro-Moscow president Viktor Yanukovych, who has since taken refuge in Russia. The Kremlin responded by sending troops to Ukraine’s Russian-speaking peninsula of Crimea and annexing it as part of Russia last month. “What is happening in Ukraine can
happen in Russia, too,” said Nikitchuk. “This pushed us to write to the Prosecutor General, so that professional lawyers rather than historians investigate the events of 1991.” He added that lawmakers were also concerned about internal enemies stirring unrest. “The fifth column in our country has been formed and works in the open, funded by foreign money,” he said. In a landmark speech marking Russia’s takeover of Crimea, President Vladimir Putin called Russians disagreeing with his policies such as his decision to occupy the Crimean peninsula a “fifth column.” There have been previous attempts by the Communist party to have Gorbachev prosecuted but these have led nowhere.
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Opposition leader concerned about Government’s stance on Crimea CASTRIES, St. Lucia – CMC - The leader of the main opposition United Workers Party (UWP), Allen Chastanet, has described St Lucia’s recent voting at the United Nations (UN) and the Organisation of American States (OAS), as “terrifying” and “worrisome”.St Lucia abstained on a UN resolution denouncing Russia’s recent annexation of Crimea condemning the referendum on the issue as illegal. “You would have thought that a small independent country that does not have an army would take a firm stand on such an issue because what we are saying is that some big country can come to St Lucia and force us to vote to determine whether we want to stay independent,
Allen Chastanet “ the UWP leader said. Referring to the way St Lucia voted, Chastanet declared that it was “a very sad day.”
He also described as “hogwash”, a Foreign Ministry statement which in effect stated that when “big brothers are fighting” St Lucia should not get involved. The resident British High Commissioner here – Andy Pryce has also critized St Lucia’s abstention during the UN vote on Crimea saying the move was “a bit difficult to understand.” “One way I saw this dispute was that any further negative action by Russia could have an impact on the economy in Europe, and as we know such an impact would have ramifications here,” Pryce said. Russia’s annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea region last month has deepened the worst East-West crisis since the Cold War ended two decades ago.
Venezuela’s Maduro, opposition to talk, unrest death toll hits 40 CARACAS (Reuters) President Nicolas Maduro due to host Venezuelan opposition leaders yesterday at the start of mediated talks intended to stem two months of political unrest that has killed dozens in the OPEC nation. Underlying the gravity of the crisis, authorities said yesterday a policeman was shot dead in western Barquisimeto city while dispersing a demonstration. That took the official death toll to 40. Some hardline opposition groups, including the party of jailed protest leader Leopoldo Lopez, were b o y c o t t i n g y e s t e r d a y ’s scheduled talks while dozens of demonstrators remain in jail. The meeting, brokered by foreign ministers from the Unasur bloc of South American governments, was due to start at 5 p.m. at the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas and be broadcast live on state TV. Both sides have asked the Roman Catholic Church to attend as a “good faith” witness. The Vatican has confirmed its willingness to mediate but has not named an envoy to the talks. “Miraflores will tremble,” said opposition leader Henrique Capriles, who narrowly lost to M a d u r o i n l a s t y e a r ’s election to replace late socialist leader Hugo Chavez.
“ We w i l l t e l l t h e government the truth so that the country can open its eyes and we see that things must change,” added Capriles, who is part of the Democratic Unity opposition coalition’s delegation to the talks. Pollsters say approval levels for both Maduro and the opposition have fallen during the crisis, while an already slowing economy has suffered a further drag from the impact of violent clashes on businesses and transport. Since protests began in early February, about 650 people have been injured in addition to the 40 fatalities, officials say. More than 2,000 people have been detained, and 174 are still behind bars. Maduro, who calls himself the ‘son’ of Chavez and is seeking to preserve popular oil-funded welfare policies while tinkering w i t h h i s p r e d e c e s s o r ’s statist economic model, said ahead of the talks that he would talk but not negotiate. “There will be no pact with anyone. There is a debate, a dialogue, which is different. I would be a traitor if I start negotiating the revolution,” he said. Hardline protesters have openly sought to p r o v o k e a “ Ve n e z u e l a n Spring” that would force Maduro out of office but have failed to bring the millions onto the streets they had hoped for. The
demonstrators have proved persistent, however, with sporadic roadblocks, marches and other protest tactics in some cities. Students in Caracas planned to rally just before the talks. Maduro said if the opposition wants to get rid of him, it would have to be via the ballot only. His foes could force a presidential ‘recall referendum’ in 2016 if they garner about 4 million signatures for it. Maduro’s six-year term ends in 2019. “The opposition must return to the democratic and constitutional track,” Maduro told thousands of supporters during a speech in a Caracas convention center, to cheers of “they will not return”. Venezuelans across the political spectrum are fed up with violent crime and economic problems including a 57 percent annual inflation rate and shortages of basic products from milk and flour to toilet-paper and car batteries. Both sides said those issues would figure high in the talks. Maduro said he had “positive surprises” for the opposition at the talks, but gave no details. There have been calls for a goodwill release of former security official Ivan Simonovis, who is serving a 30-year sentence for some shootings during a brief coup against Chavez against 2002.
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Nightmare at Timehri Cocaine in awara; cocaine in fish; cocaine in pumpkin; cocaine in false bottom suitcase; cocaine in lumber; cocaine in coconut milk; cocaine in liquor; cocaine in shoes; cocaine in glue; cocaine in achar; cocaine in pineapple; cocaine in genip; cocaine in scrap iron. Now we learn about cocaine in cheese rolls and pine tarts. What next? You name it and the cocaine smugglers have tried it. It seems as if any and everything can be used to conceal illegal narcotics. This is why it is so frightening to even travel. And why travellers have to take extraordinary precautions when going overseas because you never know when someone can slip something… plant something or ask you to carry something and unknown to you those things contain illicit substances. Many Guyanese have therefore adopted a “nocarry” policy. It does not matter how long or how well they know somebody; it does not matter if that person is a friend or relative, they are not taking anything for anyone in their luggage. If asked, the answer is a firm “Sorry and No! I am not taking anything for you to give to your friends or relatives overseas. I am not doing that at all.” This is an understandable policy. The sheer number of drug busts that have occurred through our national airport makes the very thought of passing through that facility a nightmare. You never know what is being moved on the same flight as you. You never know who is sitting next to you and what they can slip into your baggage. One guy told me that he has stopped taking washroom breaks while in the
air. He cannot take the chance unless he is travelling with a member of his household who can keep an eye out for him while he goes to the toilet. Other persons are cagey about carrying on conversations with strangers, something that many travellers do to help pass the boredom of a long crossAtlantic journey. There is one individual who does not travel with any luggage when leaving Guyana. He is so scared of someone planting something in his luggage that he has long decided that whenever he has to travel overseas he does so without any luggage. This always perplexes the immigration authorities where he disembarks because when he is asked how many pieces of checked luggage he has and answers none, they presume that he is already living in their country and thus he is subject to a great deal of questioning. He however prefers this grilling as to the purposes of his travel rather than having to go through the anxiety of wondering if someone is going to plant something in his luggage. He of course has the advantage of getting through the immigration and customs quickly. Legitimate passengers are scared of travelling out of Guyana. This is bad for tourism. No one has any hassle about travelling into Guyana. No one smuggles cocaine into Guyana on commercial aircraft. However if you visit Guyana you have to leave, and this is where your anxieties begin. Most persons are nervous at the thought of leaving Guyana to return overseas, more so if you are travelling through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport at Timehri. Guyana will lose out when
it comes to tourists, because no one wants to be anxious at the end of their vacation. As such, people are not going to take the hassle of spending their holidays in Guyana. They will go somewhere else because just a few trips a year through our airport, having to look constantly over your shoulder is enough to give anyone a nervous breakdown. Guyana is also going to have a bad international image if this trend continues. It is not as if drugs are not smuggled through other
airports. Definitely drugs leave other Caribbean airports as they do here. The drug trade has wide wings. But I do not believe that anywhere else is there so much ingenuity in the ways in which drugs are trafficked as through our international airport. Already, the country is paying a huge price for drug trafficking. When western countries learn that a flight is from Guyana, red flags are raised. The immigration authorities are more rigorous in their questioning and the
luggage of passengers is subjected to more detailed checks. This is the price everyone that leaves Guyana pays for the country’s reputation as a major transshipment point for drugs. With a continued bad image and with a high incidence of drug busts, the airlines are going to demand and implement intensified security checks. This is going to be the straw that will break the camel’s back, because if this happens, persons are going to be body-searched in the
most invasive of ways. And this will force commercial air traffic to dry up in Guyana. This will not be good for the country, and so action needs to be taken to ensure that it is safer and more relaxing for legitimate travellers to pass through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
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Kaieteur News
Friday April 11, 2014
== THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN ==
Penis erection and moral politics in Guyana A powerful member of the unfree house on Robb Street, one who is also a longstanding member in the corridors of power and who was a favourite of Mrs. Janet Jagan is in deep trouble. Well he ought to be if the head man is not a hypocrite. The head man is on tape as saying that he believes in moral politics. Well if he believes in moral politics, this darling of Mrs. Jagan has to be disciplined. This sixty-year-old man (I know his age) told a twentytwo-year old journalist who sought an interview, “I want you to know that I am a bachelor and I can STILL get an erection.” These are the words in the statement of the journalist as directly submitted to me. This young lady I know
well. She is not someone I just say hello and good morning to when I see her. We worked together on two stories. I chose her to accompany me to Vreed-en-Hoop to interview magistrate Clive Nurse. She is a promising young journalist. I say without even a modicum of hesitation, I know she told me the truth. She was about to interview this predator when he uttered those humiliating words. Why is he a predator? I will come to that but before, let us analyze why he used the word STILL, in telling her about his penis erection ability. He means that as a bisexual, he can STILL get erections. In other words, he assumed that the journalist knew he was a nationally known bi-sexual. Please don’t get me wrong. I have absolutely nothing against bisexuals. In fact, when the PPP came to power in 1992, I defended this very immoral character when
Rev Dale Bisnauth, the then Minister of Education, was on a homophobic rant about homosexuals and he specifically pointed to this favourite of Janet Jagan. Bisnauth said, “Imagine a young man like him is a homosexual; I can’t stand the fellow.” Why is he a predator? Because a PPP member who worked at the Ministry of Education asked him to drop home her 14-year-old daughter but instead he took her to Ogle (you know where in Ogle. It is named after a vehicle) and played with her private parts but did not pursue penetration. I sought an interview with the mother but she declined telling me. “Freddie, leave de matter alone nuh; it dun with.” This was because she received as hush money, a million dollars and a house lot. Nadira Jagan (Brancier), the daughter of the Jagans has to be a clown or a fool to say she hates people who
criticize her mother. Mrs Jagan knew what happened to that little girl and about the settlement. When it came to women’s rights, Mrs. Jagan was the world’s largest hypocrite. She knew about one of her post-1992 darlings who kicked his other lover down the stairs of his law office on Croal Street. Mrs. Jagan also knew about the violent incident involving a loved protégé that led to the death of his wife. The official verdict was suicide. Mrs. Jagan knew about molestation at the Mirror newspaper and in fact threatened the victim, telling her that her public comments on the incident could bring down the government. Mrs. Jagan knew about another violent incident in the eighties when one of her most loved favourites lived near UG. The official verdict was
that the wife committed suicide. Mrs. Jagan knew what an infamous, sick, debauched pandit did to his secretary that drove her to suicide. Thankfully all these suicides were published in the press, so researchers can find them. I say in all sincerity, Mrs. Janet Jagan was one of the world’s most awful whitewashers of brutality against women in Guyana. Finally, in relation to Mrs. Jagan, she was annoyed and immensely angry at Varshnie Singh for going public with her accusations against Bharrat Jagdeo. The story of sexual misconduct in the PPP went on before 1999 when Mrs. Jagan resigned. This is where Guyana’s historiography needs to be written with a revisionist pen. Cheddi Jagan was not the good man people think he was. Forbes Burnham was not the bad
Frederick Kissoon man people think he was. Jagan turned a blind eye to sexual violence by his protégés after 1992. Burnham was not tolerant of those in his party who practised that kind immorality. I know personally of Burnham acting against Claude Merriman who was a Cabinet Minster at the time. Mr. Penis Erection will not be disciplined, because it is not that the boss man hasn’t any idea of what moral politics is, he just doesn’t want to know.
Dem boys seh...
Jagdeo ketchin’ fits over de Waterfalls paper De way some people does behave you got to worry whether de country got any ruler. Is like everybody is a powerhouse. Dem people from Bai Shan Lin come. De Williams boy decide to tek dem to dinner, suh dem go to a Chinee restaurant name Hilton. Don’t talk bout de food and don’t talk about how people does boast once dem belly full. De Bai Shan Lin people did cut nuff deal wid people in Guyana. Dem had deal wid Rob de Earth; dem had deal wid some other people in de government and is only when Donald start fuh check that people run and lef dem deal. Anyhow, dem boys see when de Bai Shan Lin people walk into de Hilton restaurant wid de Williams Boy. From de time dem sit down dem start to talk bout who got de government in dem pocket. De Bai Shan Lin man actually tell de Williams boy that he got things under control. De man seh that he got people lock down from de top to de bottom. Well dem boys jump because no foreigner ever come in Guyana and boast when Jagdeo was in control. He had people from top to bottom putting things in he pocket. Dem boys
seh that he is de man who now stop people from writing de Pee Pee Pee column. A long time back de Pee Pee Pee use to have a column in de Waterfalls paper. Dem stop after a while but dem boys didn’t know that was Jagdeo did stop dem. When some people in de party see that every other party had a column in de Waterfalls paper dem feel that de paper was discriminating against de Pee Pee Pee. Dem come back de other day because de party get a break. But when Jagdeo find out, he stop dem again. Dem did only send in two columns. Jagdeo tell de Central Committee meeting that any column from de party must cuss de Waterfalls paper and de Waterfalls Boss man. Well is only a fool gun give a man cutlass fuh chop off he, de fool, neck. De people tell Jagdeo that de Waterfalls boss man wouldn’t publish some column cussing he, but Jagdeo seh that only column like dat could go. Donald was absent from that meeting. Dem boys waiting fuh hear wha he gun seh when he hear. Talk half and don’t let Jagdeo kill de Pee Pee Pee.
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 11
Low prevalence of TIP in Guyana Notwithstanding the extent of Trafficking in Persons (TIP) globally, repeated assessments have revealed a low prevalence of TIP in Guyana, says Human Services Minister Jennifer Webster. Addressing the National Assembly during her budget debate presentation, Webster said, “TIP is a global phenomenon. It is the second largest criminal activity in the world, in conjunction with arms trafficking and trailing the drug trade, according to the United Nations”. While emphasizing the low prevalence of TIP in Guyana, the Minister said the potential impact of TIP on the safety and human rights of citizens has driven the Government and its partners to develop strategies and programmes aimed at combating the illegal activity. She related that initiatives aimed at combating TIP have been undertaken under the guidance of the Ministerial Task Force on Trafficking In Persons, which comprises representatives of governmental and nongovernmental agencies. It is chaired by Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee. Webster said that Government’s policy on the
- Human Services Minister
Human Services Minister, Jennifer Webster issue of TIP is to wage a consistent struggle against perpetrators. She assured that Government will always honour its obligations to offer protection and assistance to victims. “This is contrary to some recent public statements made in the press,” Webster said. Government has always maintained that TIP is not a problem in Guyana, despite reports to the contrary by the US State Department. In 2012, when the Guyana Women Miners’ Organization (GWMO) began rescuing women and children from
sexual exploitation from Guyana’s ‘gold bush’ some Government officials acknowledged that TIP was indeed a problem. Nonetheless, they are adamant that it is not widespread. Simona Broomes, President of GWMO, has been vocal about Government’s inaction in terms of implementing the provisions under the Laws in providing assistance for victims, or as she prefers to say, survivors of TIP. Broomes believes survivors are sucked into a vicious cycle because of the lack of counseling, inadequate shelter, absence of resources to reintegrate them into society, and no access to education. Minister Webster, meanwhile, told the National Assembly that it must be noted that investigations of reported incidents of TIP are conducted by the Guyana Police Force. She said all files or matters with respect to TIP are duly reviewed by the Commissioner of Police or an authorized officer. She explained that there is an
established protocol as to how such matters are dealt with. The Guyana Police Force is responsible for informing witnesses or alleged victims of their scheduled appearance in Court. According to Webster, communication is a key element in relationship building for effective interagency collaboration. “We must communicate and understand the roles and responsibilities of the participating agencies and appreciate each other’s cultural and operating differences. The barriers to inter-agency collaboration are many, but true professionals will continue to work towards removing these barriers,” she said. She noted that in 2013, there were 20 alleged victims, nine reports, three convictions and six cases which were brought before the Courts. One case was dismissed. The three convictions pertained matters in 2012. “With respect to the three cases in 2013 which were not brought before the Court, no charge was instituted based
upon the legal advice provided by the Director of Public Prosecutions,” she said. The Minister stressed that the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security has never rejected any alleged TIP victims and has rendered support in the form of financial aid; the provision of housing, food, and clothing; together with training opportunities and job placement for victims; to facilitate their reintegration into society. In 2013, the Ministry supported 30 alleged victims,
some of whom were rescued during the previous year, Webster said. “The Ministry continues to urge full reporting of incidents of TIP by every concerned Guyanese and also urges all TIP victims or alleged victims to ensure they testify in the Court of Law to ensure prosecutions which will result in the conviction, and we would like to assure everyone, that Government remains ready to support all victims/alleged victims to ensure their meaningful reintegration into society,” Webster asserted.
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Kaieteur News
Friday April 11, 2014
2014 Budget…
$56.2B of $220B approved on day one of voting A total of $56.2 billion of the $220 billion 2014 Budget was approved by the Committee of Supply considering the Estimates on the first day of voting, inclusive of the $6B bailout for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). It was not all smooth sailing, however, as the sitting commenced an hour and a half late and was adjourned for another hour to convene behind the scenes discussions to find amicable solutions to the potential impasses and signaled cuts. A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s Carl Greenidge had proposed a motion calling for the Minister of Finance Dr Ashni Singh to withdraw the Budget and resubmit it in accordance with the Constitution. This was proposed given that allocations such as those for the Judiciary had not been provided for in a lump sum. When the House eventually commenced its sitting, the Finance Minister signaled to the House that at the appropriate stage he would amend the Budget to allow for the money to be
provided for in a lump sum. It was referred to as a historic day for the Judiciary. After the relevant members of the government side were grilled by the political opposition for hours on end, allocations for the Ministry of Agriculture to the tune of $23.8B and the Ministry of Education ($32.4B) were approved without any cuts. First to be questioned over the allocations was Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy. APNU’s Rupert Roopnaraine was first to bring into focus the $6B subsidy that had been allocated for GuySuCo. He initially sought to find out about the criteria for members of the new board, as the Opposition wanted to be assured that “we are provided with a credible programme to resuscitate the industry”. “We believe that throughout the industry at all levels of management there requires significant reform…What we are looking for in relation to subsidy is iron-clad assurances.” According to the
Agriculture Minister, the new board is being appointed based on a number of recommendations made, and he assured that there are radical changes being proposed for the board come July. He said that the President and Cabinet are engaged in talks with various people who have been recommended to be a part of the board and “I want to assure the opposition that we are looking for persons who will bring experience in the industry in business and marketing and mechanization, because these are the issues we have to face.” APNU’s Joseph Harmon, queried of the Minister what the $6B will be used for specifically, and was told the money would primarily be used for the conversion of thousands of hectares of land to facilitate mechanization as well as the opening up of new lands. Dr. Ramsammy said too that the money will be used to facilitate the upgrade of a number of estates, including a $500M allocation for the Skeldon Sugar Factory. The Minister said that there will be an aggressive push for the mechanization given the dwindling labour pool. He noted, however, that
Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy provides answers to the Committee the drive will not be done in such a way as to displace any of the existing workers. He said that given that some of the workers have been leaving the industry in search of higher-paying jobs, the industry with its increased mechanization will be looking to train existing workers to use the machinery, so as to allow for their elevation to higherpaying salary scales. Questioned on the indebtedness of the industry, the Minster said that when the Budget was prepared
there was an $11B deficit, which the $6B would be used to alleviate in some measure, but as long as the turnaround is on track, he is optimistic that the industry would not be seeking another bailout before the end of this year. The Minister also committed to providing the House with quarterly updates on how the money will be used. Dr Ramsammy was asked about the undertaking of a forensic audit into the Skeldon Sugar Factory to see if the money invested was well spent. He reminded the House that GuySuco’s accounts are audited each year. Skeldon sugar factory is expected to produce 18 per cent of the projected 216,000 tonnes of sugar projected to
be produced this year. Meanwhile Dr Ramsammy was also grilled on the allocations to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, given the discrepancies raised by the Auditor General. The Minister said that “we have made significant progress in terms of accounting for expenditure and resources.” He said that with regards weaknesses that were identified, “we are working directly with the AG’s office so that we can strengthen the department.” The Minister of Education Priya Manickckand was also questioned about the allocations to her Ministry and after providing satisfactory responses, all were approved by the House.
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
Shot cop claims GPHC could have made him lose his foot Doctors attached to a private hospital are desperately trying to save at least the calcaneus, also called the heel bone, of a 23year-old policeman who was accidently shot by a Corporal on March 20, last at Rabbit Walk, Eve Leary. Samuel Elvis, a father of one, of Lot 4 Bella Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD) was shot to the right upper thigh. He underwent surgery at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) to remove the bullet. As days went by, Elvis said that he noticed his toes started to get dark. “I told the doctor and he said that I need to move, move my knee and I started doing that.” According to Elvis, whenever the doctors at the hospital “run the ward,” a doctor would normally go to him and ask about the injured leg. “Every time they asked, I would tell them that my toes getting dark and they wouldn’t say or do anything.” “I was a patient there and at no time the doctors explained to me what was happening, until one day when one of them came to me and said that they will have to remove my ankle,” Elvis claimed. He said that after listening to what the doctor had to say, he got angry. “I told them when I
- Hospital mulls probe Samuel Elvis
couldn’t move one of my toes and they didn’t do anything. I did the same when I couldn’t feel on two toes and they still didn’t do anything, but they wanted to remove my ankle.” Knowing that life would become difficult for him with such action, the Tactical Service Unit (TSU) rank left the GPHC and got himself admitted to a private hospital. There he was informed that a “faulty” operation was “…the reason for the decaying of my foot. When I did the ultrasound, the guy said that the surgery I did at GPHC was messed up. The doctor here (private hospital) said that he will try to save my heel, but he can’t save my
toes. He said that my toes’ cells are dying slowly”. When contacted, a senior official at the GPHC said that he will have to review the Elvis’ chart before an investigation is launched. Meanwhile, Elvis recounted the shooting incident. “Sometime after 01:00 hrs on March 20 (last), we received a call that a lost Guyana Defence Force (GDF)’s weapon was found so we had to go uplift it, which we did. At the base, we were waiting to lodge it when the Corporal picked up the weapon and cranked it,” the TSU rank recalled. He added that the gun went off and he was injured.
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DPP Chambers apologises to Justice William Ramlal The Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has issued an apology to Justice William Ramlal for inaccuracies carried in a press release, the contents of which were carried in an article in this newspaper last Wednesday. The article had quoted the DPP as stating that Justice Ramlal had disposed of three cases, all of which he had upheld no case submissions and directed the jury to return not guilty verdicts. In a subsequent article, Justice Ramlal expressed his displeasure over the statistics put out by the DPP’s Chambers, pointing out that he had dealt with four cases
and only two no case submissions were upheld. He provided brief details of what transpired during the cases he presided over. In light of his objections, the DPP’s office acknowledged the inaccuracy and penned an unequivocal public apology, a copy of which was reportedly hand-delivered to the judge. Below is the full text of the apology. “Dear Editor, Reference the DPP’s Chambers Press Release published in the Kaieteur News of Wednesday April 9, 2014, please note that in relation to the three matters presented before Justice William Ramlal, I wish to
make the following correction. “At the same time Justice William Ramlal disposed of three matters also for the offence of Murder. In two of these three matters, the Trial Judge upheld no case submissions and directed the jury to return formal verdicts of not guilty, In the other one matter of (the State vs. Carl Bennett), the jury returned a verdict of not guilty for the accused”. The DPP Chambers apologises to the Honourable Justice William Ramlal for the embarrassment caused. Thank you. Liz Rahaman Communications Officer DPP Chambers
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Kaieteur News
Friday April 11, 2014
Food and Drug Dept. aims to regularise pharmaceutical industry From left: GA-FDD Director, Marlan Cole; Communicable Diseases Director, Dr. Morris Edwards and other GA-FDD officials Fabiola Robertson and Alison Hinds-Semple.
Some of the representatives of the local pharmaceutical industry at the seminar The possibility exists that close to 50 per cent of malaria drugs on the local market do not conform to quality specifications, a daunting state of affairs that is compounded by the fact that the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) is currently not in a position to speak to the status of a number of other drugs currently available here.
At least this was the assertion of GA-FDD Director Marlan Cole yesterday, as he addressed participants at a training seminar organised for importers and distributors of pharmaceuticals. The venue was Cara Lodge, Quamina Street, Georgetown,. The seminar, according to Cole, was designed to garner the support of key stakeholders in the
pharmaceutical industry to ensure that activities intended to cater to the needs of the consuming public are harmonised. The GA-FDD has the legally mandated responsibility, among others, to regulate and register all pharmaceuticals on the market, but has not been able to efficiently carry out this function for a number of years.
Moreover, the GA-FDD is on a belated mission to ensure that pharmaceuticals currently available on the local market are not only efficacious and safe, but of the best quality which can contribute to the quality of life and health care of citizens. This ambitious move was prompted by indications that the World Health Organisation (WHO) will soon be making moves to closely scrutinise pharmaceuticals in a number of countries. Cole disclosed that the WHO had in fact previously conducted assessments of the regulatory processes and systems of a number of countries and there is a likelihood that further assessments are looming. “My suspicion is that the next thing they are going to do is to come into our territories and take the (pharmaceutical) samples and if they should come now and take the samples and discover what percentage do not conform, the cannon will be turned to the Food and Drug Department, and they will be asking us what we are doing,” Cole stated. He said that between the period 2005 and 2010, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) had conducted a study of 1,663 malaria medicines available in the public sector which revealed that 1,445 or 86.9 per cent did not meet the required quality specification. Samples of these drugs, Cole said, were taken to facilitate basic quality control tests of pharmaceuticals that were available in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Suriname, Venezuela and Guyana. That study, according to Cole, was able to deduce that 193 (11.6 per cent) of the pharmaceuticals never met the quality specification. “Over 60 odd per cent
failed the test,” said Cole, who noted that it is believed that quite a high percentage of the malaria drugs available on the local market are a cause for concern. He admitted that even after the findings of the study was disaggregated, “I didn’t look at the data, I didn’t want to look at it to verify it, but I am suspecting that over 50 per cent at least, of those drugs that were sampled, might not have passed.” And while this is the situation that obtains for malaria drugs, Cole said, “what is going on with the other pharmaceuticals we don’t know...” In fact he said that the Food and Drug Department is not even in a position to ascertain how many of the pharmaceuticals on the local market are registered. “Is it less than 15 per cent, less than 20 per cent, less than 30 per cent? We don’t know; we’re supposed to know,”Cole emphasised. He went on to disclose that in some cases the GA-FDD is unable to authenticate even the address of some suppliers. “If we Google the addresses, sometimes the addresses don’t exist... What percentage of registered and/ or registered drugs on our local market that are in conformity, that is, of good quality, safe and efficacious we don’t know, and since we don’t know, the public is at risk. We cannot continue to do business as usual,” Cole said. In fact, it was in light of such disturbing developments that USAID had some time ago suggested that confirmatory testing must be an area to be strengthened. “...That is why we are working on the Food and Drug Department to ensure that by October of this year we are accredited, but some things as it relates to accreditation are in our way.”
Although Cole has been in the Food and Drug Department for a number of years it was only about six months ago that he assumed the position of Director. And according to him, since taking office, he was tempted to question his officers and those who function in the laboratory “how often do we send (pharmaceutical) samples to the CRDTL (the Caribbean Regional Drug Testing Laboratory)?” The CRDTL, headquartered in Jamaica, is recognised by Caricom and established to ensure that drugs in the Region conform to appropriate standards of purity, strength and quality. Even as he highlighted what obtains in a number of territories including: Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad, Cole emphasised the importance of confirming to the WHO Pre-qualification process. This, according to him, means that pharmaceuticals and their suppliers would have gone through a rigorous registration process with the WHO, something that the GA-FDD is looking to embrace in the near future. “WHO has in place, and we will pursue this aggressively, a provision for representatives of developing countries to go to the WHO to spend about three months, and go through the prequalification process, so that they can learn and return to their countries to practice drug registration and regulation.” And according to Cole, the regulatory body will fervently work to protect the consuming public with the support of Government, through the Ministry of Health, the business community and the general public. Also speaking at yesterday’s forum was Director of Communicable Diseases, Dr Morris Edwards, (Continued on page 15)
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Georgetown Int’l Academy Male teacher in hot water receives world class accreditation …after sending nude photo to female student
From left: Jacqueline Urresta, Kem Hussain, Dr. Kelly Mekdeci and W.Darrell Barringer at a recent press conference By Latoya Giles The Georgetown International Academy (GIA) commonly known as the “American School” has once again received world class accreditation. On Wednesday, Principal Dr. Kelly Mekdeci told Kaieteur News that the school is the first school in Guyana to be accredited by AdvancED in the United States. On April 9, the school’s status was officially elevated and extended after a committee of AdvancED scholars completed an indepth on-site review of the institution. According to the Principal, the school welcomes local students and its entire body is about 50 percent Guyanese. Mekdeci said that the school caters for “high achievers and those who intend to work hard”. Mekdeci said that the school strives to be a 21st Century learning community for global citizenship, committed to world-class excellence and to empowering well rounded individuals educated for success in life. She said that its mission is to provide opportunities and challenges for each student to succeed as a lifelong learner and responsible citizen in a changing world. Director for AdvancED, W. Darrel Barringer told
Kaieteur News that there were specific methods by which the school was judged. He explained that they are five indicators: purpose and direction, governance and leaders such as the school administrators; teaching and assessment, which is the heart of the school; resources, and continuous improvement. The school is graded on a scale from four to one, with four being the highest level. The school had done an initial rating scale and it was verified. Barringer said that the “school has created an environment conducive to learning and does a tremendous job in preparing students for the challenges that lie ahead in the 21st
century.” In 1998, Georgetown International Academy became the first school in Guyana to be accredited by the AdvancEd. Accreditation signifies a high level of achievement and adherence to educational standards consistent with schools in the United States and other parts of the world. After an exhaustive ninemonth internal review of benchmarks relating to leadership, governance, curriculum, and teaching methods by AdvancED’s education review team, as well as an external analysis of the school, reviewers have certified that GIA meets or exceeds standards set by the U.S. accrediting body.
A male Mathematics teacher attached to a Woolford Avenue secondary school has found himself in hot water. The mother of one of his female students found a nude photo of the teacher in her daughter’s phone. The mother also discovered a number of text messages from the teacher on the phone, one of which read, “I really want you, not just to
stare at in the classroom, but also in bed.” A report was immediately made by the parent to the head of the school and the nearest police station, after which the teacher was taken into custody. He has since been debarred from entering the school. Up to press time, this newspaper was reliably informed that several schoolgirls from forms one to
three had come forward and reported the teacher’s inappropriate sexual behaviour towards them. It is unclear whether the teacher had intercourse with any of his female students, but it was reported that there was an exchange of text messages and nude pictures between some of the girls and the teacher. Investigations are ongoing.
Food and Drug Dept. aims... (From page 14) who disclosed that the Health Ministry has in place its Health Vision 2020 which has as a stated goal “citizens of Guyana are among the healthiest in the Caribbean and South America.” Moreover, Dr Edwards said that the key to achieving that goal is the delivery of quality health services, even as he added that a major
component of quality health services “is ensuring that we have safe medicines that are efficacious and that are of good quality.” In alluding to the fact that “the pharmaceutical industry is big business,” Dr Edwards highlighted that in 2011 the profits made amounted to some US$930 billion and it is projected that the profits will rise to US$1.1 trillion this year. “We don’t know what the
total market is in Guyana, but I will be bold enough to say that it is a substantial contributor to our economy...and with the policy of the Government being one of free market, then we expect the private sector to tap into that pie,” Dr Edwards said. He however emphasised the notion that this profitmaking venture should not be allowed to occur at the expense of consumers.
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Kaieteur News
Friday April 11, 2014
PI into detective’s shooting REO’S SON KILLED IN death continues BERBICE SMASH-UP A total of five persons have been called to testify on behalf of the State as the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the death of longstanding policeman Silburn Elias got underway on Tuesday last before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Delon Abrams, 23, of South Ruimveldt, is charged with murdering Detective Corporal 14998 Elias of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on January 6, last at Alberttown, Georgetown. Elias was reportedly shot dead after he reportedly went into a yard in Fourth Street, Alberttown to recapture an escaped prisoner and recover his colleague’s gun. Corporal Elias was rushed to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he was pronounced dead. A post mortem was conducted and a warhead of a .38
- Passenger critical Murder Accused: Delon Abrams
revolver was reportedly retrieved from the body. The accused was recaptured and the charge was instituted against him. The case is being prosecuted by Corporal Bharat Mangru. Adams is currently unrepresented.
The court has so far heard sworn testimonies from Elias’s cousin-in-law Faye Holder, Assistant Superintendent of Police Marlon Taylor, Sergeant Sohan Ramdat, Lance Corporal Thomas and Constable Joel Greene. Adams has been remanded ever since his first court appearance on January 10, last. The PI is scheduled to continue on April 23. A total of 24 witnesses are expected to testify on behalf of the state. Corporal Elias, a father of four, and who resided at Buxton on the East Coast of Demerara, had spent the last 25 years of his life in the Guyana Police Force.
Donald Ambedkar, the son of Region Five Regional Executive Officer Ashford Ambedkar, died Wednesday night after the car he was driving collided with a truck on the D’ Edward Village Public Road, West Coast Berbice. Sookdeo Sahadeo, a passenger in Ambedkar’s vehicle, and of Bath, West Coast Berbice, is in a critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Ambedkar, a father of three, was employed as an engineer at Plan B
Construction Company, located on the East Bank of Demerara. According to reports, Ambedkar was driving at a fast rate at around 21.00 hrs on Wednesday when he lost control and slammed into a Canter truck. He was rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Sahadeo, the passenger, was first taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital before being transferred to the GPHC. Ambedkar’s body is at the Fort Wellington Hospital Mortuary awaiting a Post Mortem examination.
The wrecked car
Donald Ambedkar
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 25
Crime scene photographer takes the stand Swiss House Cambio boss murder…
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 15th witness to testify on behalf of the state. For a second time, Razac’s wife, Carol Ann Lynch, is charged with murdering him on May 7, 2007 at their Ireng Place, Bel Air Park, Georgetown residence. The PI got underway Tuesday last in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. 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 Corporal Lakeram Datt to offer a sworn testimony. Datt was, in 2007, a crime scene photographer attached to the Criminal Investigations
Department (CID) at the Brickdam Police Station. Photographs and negatives of the alleged crime scene were tendered as evidence. He was cross examined by Defence Attorney Peter Hugh. The Prosecution declined to re-examine. Hugh and Attorney Latchmie Rahamat are representing Lynch. Mangru indicated that seven more witnesses were supposed to testify, but this has been reduced to five, since two of the witnesses have migrated and no contact was established with them. He, however, referred to the evidence offered by the couple’s longstanding neighbour David Faulkner who had told the court that his wife now resides in Miami, United States of America. The case will be called again on April 24. The Chief Magistrate, in response, instructed the Prosecution to use the two-week
adjournment period to make checks for the remaining witnesses. So far the court has heard testimonies from the couple’s friend Sharon Sanmogan; their fitness trainer, Karan Dutt; longstanding neighbour David Faulkner; surveillance system technician Joseph Chung;
Lynch’s brother Robert Jr; her teenage daughter, her parents Robert Sr. and Edith Lynch; her niece Melissa Watson; brother of the deceased Fazeel Razac; Detective Inspector Ray Geness, Sergeant Lillian Scotland, retired Inspector Sydney Charles, Dr. Sheik Hassan Amir and Corporal Lakeram Datt.
ACCUSED: Carol Ann Lynch
Dead: Farouk Razac
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Kaieteur News
PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale.Call:6275416 Double Lot with house - Tel: 220-9961 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
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
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 Pit-bull Pups – Call:649-4135 or 692-8633 One (1) Cargo Ship – Call: 676-6933 1 Livable building on A triple lot @ 144 Stewartville , W.C.D length:139’X Width: 40’- Price$5,000,000, urgently contact:679-1366, 442-1831 Red Honda 250 Twister motorcycle – Contact:6713533; 681-2217 Brand new 60" Samsung LED with 3D smart TV. Interested person - Call: 6231615
EDUCATIONAL Practical Electronic courses begining 7th April @ Abdol Electronics - Tel: 226-6551; 225-0391 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
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. Prime Business property, huge land space, 200’X 50', next to Police Outpost @ Mc Doom 233-0570 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 Two storey concrete house and land at Lamaha Springs, Georgetown. Phone: 6141880 1 Storey Building, double lot at Pearl , $13 Million – Call:223-1319, 627-5171
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
MASSAGE Neisha’s Massage Service – Tel:674-8147
Shalom Driving School @ 2 Croal street. Fee $16,000Call:227-3869
Progressive Driving School offers: Efficient Tutoring and affordable rates – Call:661-2273
LAND FOR SALE
One Mobile Food Caravan Contact: 675-5448
House lots in Friendship. Tel: 692-8513
One small Canter- Call:6853883
Three Acres of land at Parika Backdam, E.B.E - Call:6174837 Promising mining blocks, already prospected - Tel: 6839910
Cars - $6,000.00 per day - Tel: 694-7817 or 668-0306
La Parafaite HarmoniePrices:$1.2M, $1.4M,$1.6M, Tuschen- $3.2M, Herstelling (110ftX58ft) - $4.5M (high income) -Tel: 675-7292,218-5591
Aidan’s Car Rental & PickupCall: 645-7981/ 698-7807
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
House at Lot 109 Block AA Eccles Fully Furnished with A/C, 4 rooms, yard space. Good Price. Call:671-7687; 622-2531
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) Bond and parking place for rent at Bartica – Tel:602-9302 Grooming Palace: Hair Salon & Barber Station, located Lot 3 Aubrey Barker & David Rose St (Above Royal Castle) – Tel:621-6738
TO LET Wings Two bedrooms apartment - Tel: 643-1131; 225-3234
Dolly’s Car Rental - Call: 225-7126/ 226-3693 dollys autorental@yahoo.com/ www.dolly sautorental.com
Wings Car Rental- Call:6431131
Make Up Courses, Artist Trained & Certified in Trinidad. Call: 660-5257, 647-1773 Nail Technology & Hair care courses @ Beautopia, also available Brazilian, Indian, Malaysian & Peruvian Virgin Hair – Call:604-3002 or 6698477
PEN PAL Man seeks female Guyanese friend (17-30) Email (iluvguyanesewomen @ y a h o o . c o m ) 1-246835-6908(7pm -8pm only) Toyota Vigo Truck, Toyota Carina 212 and Nissan Pathfinder, excellent condition, negotiable – Call:644-1144, 225-8427, 2643732 Unregistered 2002 Toyota Premio - $2.6M negotiable. Call Sunil:227- 5950, 681-5470 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: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 1 Toyota RZ minibus in excellent working condition. Price: $1.5M negotiable, Call:675-3773 (Serious enquires only)
VACANCY One Trainee refrigeration A/ C Technician – Tel:231-0655 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 Canter Drivers, living in Essequibo & Berbice. Apply in person @ Alabama Trading Georgetown Ferry Stelling Stabroek 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
VEHICLE FOR SALE
CAR RENTAL
SALON
Secured Concrete bond 87’X32’, lots of yard space suitable for Car Mart; Public Road McDoom: Tel: 233-0570
Alleyne’s Professional Driving School @ 651 East Ruimveldt, Best Prices Call :226-9181; 613-0223; 668-9331
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 Premio – Price: $2.5M, Carina AT212 – Price: $2M. Tel:226-5473
One 91 Sprinter. Price$380,000 – Tel:2296870; 696-3787
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
LEARN TO DRIVE
Ultravoilet Driving School @ 106 Brickdam. 25% discount – Contact:231-2372;6022583; 6584015
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
Two Storey concrete building. Price$32M, E.C.D. Call:661-9431
Friday April 11, 2014
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 Female Accounts Clerk (for Eccles) 4 Subjects CXC atleast 2 years experience, knowledge of Peachtree. Email: vijai_ramnarine@ hotmail.com
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 Toyota RAV 4 PNN Series- Contact: 650-7875. Serious Enquiries only! Sold by first owner! 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. Toyota Allion ( Black), Excellent condition, fully powered, A/C, 16" rims – Tel:622-0112 NZE, PSS series, in excellent condition with mags, alarm, CD player, chrome mirrors – Price: $1.750M – Contact Shahab: 613-5484. 1 Carina AT212, PMM Series, very good working condition. Leather seats, flash drive deck, rims. Price negotiable – Call:663-1576 (Continued on page 31)
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 31
Timehri backlands murder…
Date set for PI into female cab driver’s killing May 27 is the date set for the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the death of the 33-yearold female taxi driver whose nude body was found in a clump of bushes in the backlands at Timehri, East Bank Demerara, two months ago. This was declared yesterday when the 23-yearold accused, Sylvester Bristol also known as “Rambo”, a sand pit labourer, made another appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Bristol is charged with the murder of taxi driver Savitri ‘Maya’ Parma, sometime between February 15 and 16, last, at Dakara Creek on the Linden/Soesdyke Highway. Parma, a mother of two who resided at Loncke’s Avenue, Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, was reportedly raped and strangled with a bootlace several hours before her body was discovered in the wee hours of February 16. She was said to have been murdered by the accused whom she had allegedly offered a lift to a location called ‘Loam Pit’ after picking him up at his work place on the night of February 15. While Parma’s body was reportedly found face down with her head “pressed to the earth,” her son was found
Dead: Savitri Parma
sleeping in the rear seat of her abandoned taxi hours later by her husband who decided to search for his “missing wife.” Investigators who probed the case were led to the accused who was reportedly found hiding in a wardrobe at his living quarters at Bashir Sandpit, Linden/Soesdyke Highway. The case is being heard by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and prosecuted by Corporal Bharat Mangru who is attached to the chambers of the Director of Public
Prosecutions. Bristol is currently unrepresented by legal counsel. Mangru indicated to court that the prosecution’s investigations are complete but did not reveal the number of witnesses that will be called to testify during the PI. Bristol was further remanded. The Chief Magistrate indicated that she will listen to witnesses’ testimony between May 27 and 30 and then set another adjournment date.
(From page 30)
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
CAKES & PASTRIES: Courses in cake decoration, pastry making & cookery; also edible images and Wedding dresses for sale. Call: 670-0798
WANTED Jobs available for people with computer experienced. Make $5,000-$20,000 Daily – Call:622-1957 Live in domestic – Tel:2209873
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
Models Needed Urgently for overseas advertising company. Earn up to $100,000 daily – Tel:622-1957
Services & repairs to gas stoves, washing machines, etc – Call:688-0183
Make $5,000-$20,000 daily working from home – Call:6221957 One cement block maker, good pay – Tel:622-1957
Complete Vehicle Detailing Plus: wash, polish, interior steam cleaning, vacuuming, carpet cleaning & lawn mowing. Call:626-3126
Wanted men to burn char coals – Call:618-0487
We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer call:2310655,683-8734 Omar
Wanted Chain Saw operators with own saws – Tel:618-0487 Labourers for wood c o n c e s s i o n . Accommodation provided $5,000 Per Day! – Tel:6180487 One live in waitress, between ages 18-25. Salary -$50,000 monthly, boarding and lodging free – Tel:610-5043 Experienced drivers with mini-bus and hire car licensed, also contract vehicles needed – Call:6450025 1 Live in maid –between 38 to 50 years old, must know to cook. Tel:680-7397, 6110200 Attractive live in waitressCall:327-0252/674-4665 Cashier needed for supermarket on the East Coast, Age 25 to 50, must be knowledgeable. Tel:629-8469
Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. 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 VEHICLE FOR SALE AT 1 9 2 , 2 1 2 , A l l i o n , Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN & RZ & Pitbull minibuses, 7Seater Super Custom. Cash / terms- Call:6803154 One Toyota Raum – Tel:6964078 One Toyota Hilux 4-Runner - $1.5M negotiable - Call: 6827220 or 602-0268
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. Two waitresses, opposite The National Stadium, E.B.D – Call:233-5481 between 11:00am-6:00pm Two mechanics, assistant mechanic, secretary. Apply at J&J Service Center – Tel:227-4897 or 660-3360
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Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
Charity linked to Erdogan’s son received $100M in aid Istanbul (AFP) - A charity at which Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s son sits on the board received more than $100 million of aid over a fouryear period, the government said yesterday amid graft claims roiling the government. In a written answer to a parliamentary question, Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Arinc said that Turgev received $99 million (72 million euros) of financial aid from abroad between 2008 and 2012. Domestic donations to Turgev — which builds and runs student residences — totalled $14 million, Arinc added, without disclosing the sources of the funds. The revelation comes after dozens of Erdogan’s key business and political allies were rounded up in December
Recep Tayyip Erdogan over allegations of bribery. Prosecutors in charge of the probe, who have since been sacked, suspected Erdogan’s son Bilal of using the charity as a conduit for graft and bribery. Erdogan, a
former Istanbul mayor, has firmly rejected the allegations and instead claimed that the graft probe was targeting him through his son Bilal’s activities. But the now-stalled probe implicated Erdogan directly in February after the prime minister could allegedly be heard in a leaked audio tape talking to Bilal about hiding 30 million euros on the day of the December police raids. Erdogan blames his woes on a former ally, USbased preacher Fetullah Gulen, who wields considerable influence in the state apparatus. The ruling Islamic-rooted Justice and Development Party (AKP) scored a crushing victory in last month’s local elections, winning the key prizes of Istanbul and Ankara in votes seen as a referendum on the 11-year-rule of Erdogan.
UK’s Cameron says rivals’ views on Europe ‘extremist’ LONDON (Reuters) British Prime Minister David Cameron described rival parties’ views on the European Union as “extremist” yesterday as he launched his bid to ward off a threat from an anti-EU party ahead of European Parliament elections. Polls show the UK Independence Party (UKIP), which campaigns for tighter immigration rules and to leave the EU, could win the most votes in next month’s European vote, pushing Cameron’s Conservatives into third place behind the opposition Labour Party. Under pressure from Eurosceptic lawmakers in his own party as well as a rise in support for UKIP, Cameron has promised to renegotiate Britain’s ties with the EU and then hold an in/out referendum on the country’s membership by the end of 2017 if his party wins a general election next year. That puts him at odds with his pro-EU Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, who has sought to position the issue as a twoway debate between his party, junior coalition partner the Liberal Democrats, and UKIP. Clegg took on UKIP leader Nigel Farage in two recent TV debates on Europe, with polls from YouGov judging Farage the winner of both. Cameron sought to place himself between the two. “Looking at the other parties, there are effectively two extremist camps,” Cameron said yesterday in a speech to launch his party’s
European election campaign. “One says ‘We love the European Union’. The other says ‘We hate the European Union’. One says ‘We want things to stay the same’. The other says ‘Let’s just walk away from the EU’.” A YouGov opinion poll on Sunday found that the Conservatives were on course to come third in the European Parliament elections, behind UKIP and Labour which the
survey suggested would battle it out for first place. Labour has said it would only hold a referendum on Britain’s membership of the EU if more powers were transferred to Brussels. In a rare namecheck of UKIP, which has nine Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) but no elected seats in Britain’s parliament, Cameron said the anti-EU party could not be trusted.
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Friday April 11, 2014
Vybz Kartel attorney says commissioner trying to prejudice entertainer’s appeal
Regional bodies working together to fight fraud
Jamaica Gleaner Attorney for convicted entertainer Vybz Kartel is accusing Police Commissioner Owen Ellington of seeking to prejudice his client’s appeal following statements by the top cop on a current affairs programme last evening. Speaking on Television Jamaica’s All Angles Wednesday, Commissioner Ellington labelled Vybz Kartel as a gang leader, whose gang was responsible for more than 100 murders. Last week Thursday, Kartel, whose real name is Adidjah Palmer, and three others were sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams.
Vybz Kartel Kartel’s attorney, Tom Tavares-Finson, says Commissioner Ellington’s comments seem to be part of
a plot to discredit his client. Tavares Finson says the Commissioner should instead be seeking to correct what he says are some of the investigative blunders which occurred in the Vybz Kartel case. During the trial the defence had asserted that some of the evidence in the case were tampered with, particularly a cellular phone which was taken from Vybz Kartel and appeared to have been used while in the custody of the police. Tavares-Finson says he is prepared to provide the police commissioner with experts who can help to identify the areas in which investigators went wrong.
Late T&T PM ‘giant of a human being’, says Simpson Miller KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has expressed “profound regret and sadness” at the passin g o f t h e f o r m e r Prime Minister and President of the Republic of Trinidad and To b a g o A r t h u r ‘ A N R ’ Robinson. “Trinidad and Tobago has lost a giant of a human being, a distinguished leader and s t a t e s m a n , and the Caribbean, a true son of our r e g i o n a l c o m m u n i t y, ” Simpson Miller said in conveying condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Simpson Miller in a release from the Office of the Prime Minister
Portia Simpson Miller Thursday, described ANR Robinson as one of the C a r i b b e a n ’s most accomplished leaders who fought vigorously and advocated strongly for the
sovereign rights of his countrymen and the Caribbean people, and his stewardship and leadership roles contributed significantly to the Caribbean integration movement. “In a fitting tribute to his illustrious political c a r e e r, J a m a i c a , l i k e Trinidad and Tobago and the rest of the region, celebrated the bestowment of the Order of the Caribbean Community for his distinguished service to the Caribbean,” Simpson Miller said. ANR Robinson served as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 1986-1991 and later as President, 1997–2003. He died on Wednesday, April 9 at 87 years old.
Barbados Advocate Four entities in the Caribbean responsible for the non-bank financial sector have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will ensure even greater levels of due diligence are in place to thwart any illegal activity from taking root in the countries they represent. Chairman of the Financial Services Commission (FSC), Sir Frank Alleyne, speaking just before he and officials of the securities regulators in Jamaica, Trinidad and the Eastern Caribbean s i g n e d a M O U for the exchange of information and co-operation and consultation at the FSC’s Warrens office, maintained that the scams that have taken place across the world have occurred because of a lack of due diligence. To that end, he contended that in this region efforts must be made to ensure that the fallout from such scams will become a thing of the past. “Whether countries are large or small, we have to collaborate if we are going to protect the public interest… We have to protect investors; there must be confidence; they must have a certain level of confidence when they put
their resources in a particular enterprise. The commission is integral …to ensuring that the information which is made available to the investing public is accurate and is reliable,” he said. With that in mind, he said while only four entities have signed the MOU to date, this is only the first step for the Caribbean Group of Securities Regulators and the other members will sign in due course. The group which was set up following a meeting of the Council of the Securities Regulators of America in 2002, seeks to provide a forum to discuss and resolve regulatory issues important to the Caribbean securities market development and regulation. Sir Frank explained that the MOU is very specific in terms of the steps which have to be taken as it relates to requests for information. “We are entering this a g r e e m e n t b e c a u se we are confident from our experience that we can trust one another; that is c r i t i c a l . We h a v e f u l l confidence in Barbados, t h at if we contact our partners in Jamaica, in the OECS, in Trinidad in Tobago, in Guyana, that what we will receive is full support, complete due diligence and
they will assist us because they know that by assisting Barbados, or assisting the OECS they are helping themselves,” the chairman added. Meanwhile, Professor Patrick Watson, Chairman of the Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission said that through the MOU, the commissions will be able to better scrutinise people looking to invest in the region, and they are obliged to share information about those investors. “Not every investor is a scammer… but you have to look out for them and they do like to take advantage of our jurisdictions for things like money laundering. We are all part of a money laundering league, we have all signed into legislation in our own jurisdictions; we are committed to it. But we do want to encourage legitimate investors, who just as we are afraid of the scammers, so too are they,” Watson indicated. Watson explained that when persons invest in an entity, they want assurance that their money is safe and will not disappear because of lose regulations in a c o u n t r y, a n d t h e M O U provides that assurance for them.
Caribbean urged to strengthen measures to deal with proceeds of crime ROSEAU, Dominica – CMC - The two-day eighth annual regional Proceeds of Crime Conference began here on Wednesday with Caribbean countries being urged to strengthen measures
aimed at curtailing the activities of criminals that could undermine national security. “This conference is important because serious and organized crime
threatens national security by fueling violence, breeding inse c u r i t y, creating instability and weakening governance. “In doing so it poses a significant thre a t to p r o s p e r i t y, t h r e a t e n i n g economic growth by discouraging inward investment and creating barriers to business,” said Eamon K earney, the Programme ManagerCaribbean Criminal Assets Recovery Programme (CCARP). The conference, funded by the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID) and hosted by D o m i n i c a ’s F i n a n c i a l Intelligence Unit, is part o f t h e DFID’s initiative that covers the seven independent countries of the Eastern Caribbean, along with Belize, Guyana, Jamaica and Montserrat. Kearney told delegates that criminals often fight harder to protect their a s s e t s from confiscation than they do to avoid going to jail.
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Friday April 11, 2014
Cruz Azul advances to third CCL final Mexico City, Mexico – Cruz Azul advanced to the CONCACAF Champions League final with a 2-0 victory over visiting Club Tijuana on Wednesday to win their semifinal series 2-1 on aggregate. Julio Dominguez struck for what proved to be the clinching goal in the second half at the Estadio Azul. Cruz Azul, which has won a recordsharing five CONCACAF club titles, will face Toluca in a third consecutive AllMexican final. The Red Devils topped Alajuelense, 3-0 on aggregate, in the other final-
four pairing. It was the first time in three years the team that won the opening leg of a semifinal series didn’t progress. Cruz Azul leveled the semifinal series just three minutes into the match when a cross by Gerardo Flores deflected off Tijuana’s Javier Guemez and inside the far post. The own-goal gave the host a 1-0 lead on the night and leveled the series at 1-1. La Maquina doubled its advantage five minutes into the second half. Dominguez settled Dario Benedetto’s attempted clearance of a Rogelio Chavez free kick,
finding the back of the net from eight-yards out. In the 65th minute, second-half substitute Jaimen Ayovi created space inside the box, but he was unable to tie the series for Xolos, firing the ball over the net from 16 yards. Five minutes later, Jesus Corona dived to his left to save Benedetto’s high shot from distance. Cruz Azul nearly put the game out of reach in the 77th minute. A Christian Gimenez effort from 24-yards out went off the fingertips of goalkeeper Cirilo Saucedo and caromed off the crossbar.
Friday April 11, 2014 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Children or possibly some close friends or a love interest could be upset today, Aries. The financial coffers aren't full enough to afford something they think they absolutely have to have right now. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Worry about a family member may be on your mind today, Taurus. This person could be all wrought up over work, money, or possibly a love affair that's broken off. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Uneasy feelings may be plaguing you throughout the day, Gemini. There could appear to be no valid reason for this. Everything seems to be going well for you, and no one close to you has anything heavy going on. CANCER (June 21–July 22) A friend, perhaps a woman, could well be upset or even angry with you today, Cancer. Money might be involved in some way. There may be nothing you can do to reassure her at this time, so it's best to give what reassurances you can and then back off. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Is your boss a woman, Leo? If so, stay out of her way today. To put it mildly, she isn’t in a good mood. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Travel may cause more problems than it's worth today, Virgo. You may forget some vital items when packing or there could be too little time to get everything ready.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Finances may cause an upset between you and a friend today, Libra. Perhaps this person owes you money and can't pay it back, or vice versa. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) A social event could put you in touch with someone who's carrying around a lot of bitterness and anger, Scorpio. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) The workplace could be very hectic today as a colleague prepares to leave on an important business trip, Sagittarius. Nerves could be strained and tempers short. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You may have a wonderful day today, Capricorn. Your imagination, intuition, and creativity are all high, and inspiration for new artistic works could be filling your heart and brain. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Your home could be a very busy place today, Aquarius. Visitors could come and go throughout the day, probably annoying you at times. You might also find yourself having to soothe angry outbursts on the part of a member of your household PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Someone you work with might need a sympathetic shoulder to cry on today, Pisces. Stresses on the job extend beyond everyone's capacity to endure, so don't be surprised if at some point a colleague sheds a few tears. You might find your patience pushed beyond its normal limits.
With eight minutes left in normal time, Richard Ruiz played a teasing ball into the box. Corona did well to punch the attempt away before Fidel Martinez was able to get a head on it.
Edgar Castillo came close to finding the equalizer in the 89th minute only to see Dominguez clear his shot from the goal line. In a heated opening 45 minutes, Cruz Azul coach Luis Fernando Tena
was forced to make a pair of substitutions for the injured Luis Perea and Joao Rojas. Cruz Azul, though, didn’t miss a beat and booked its third appearance in the CCL final.
Rory McIlroy in contention... From page 38 one under, two under is a good score. “I’m feeling good with my game and came in here relaxed to try and enjoy the week. If I can do that and not get ahead of myself then hopefully I’ll give myself a great chance.” Meanwhile, England’s 19year-old amateur Matthew Fitzpatrick gave himself “six or seven” out of 10 after shooting a four-over 76 on his Masters debut. The Sheffield-born player, who qualified as US amateur champion, was playing with defending champion Adam Scott and said the Australian, who is tied for second with Louis Oosthuizen and Bubba Watson on three under,
seemed to have the ball “on a piece of string”. If Fitzpatrick - a Sheffield United fan - makes the cut today, he may well be in action while his team play in the FA Cup semi-final against Hull City on Sunday. “If you would have said to me last year my soccer team would get to the semi-final of the FA Cup and I’d play at Augusta, I’d just never, ever believe you in a million years,” he said. Scotland’s Stephen Gallacher, also a Masters debutant, reached three under at the turn to feature prominently on the leaderboard, but three bogeys in successive holes saw him drop away but a
birdie on the 15th saw him finish on one under. “I was happy to get under par and stay in the red,” said the 39-year-old. “I played with Sandy Lyle, Jose Olazabal and Miguel Angle Jimenez in practice. Their advice was great, you don’t go for flags you go for positions.”
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Republic Bank Scrabble tournament unveiled for Region Six Sec. Schools Two of Berbice and Guyana’s leading sports organisations the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) and the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) have joined hands to host the historic Republic Bank Scrabble tournament for Secondary Schools in Region 6. The organisers have already received the blessings of the Ministry of Education, Region 6 Department. BCB Administrative Officer, Ms. Alisa Moonsee informed that 17 schools would participate in the tournament which would be held in three categories; junior (ages 12 to 14), senior (ages 15 to 18) and teachers. Each category winner would receive cash awards along with trophies. The main aims of the tournament
according to Moonsee are to promote the importance of education among youths, assist students to improve their literary skills and to help students to formulate words. Competition would get underway after a special training programme trains one teacher from each school who in return would train students to play the game. Each school would also be provided with scrabble sets. Chairman of the BCB 75th Anniversary Committee and Secretary/ CEO of the RHTY&SC Hilbert Foster hailed the hosting of the tournament and urged the participating schools to make sure that the game is promoted fully. BCB First VP Anil Beharry noted that while cricket remains the main objective of the BCB, it was delighted to
Representatives of five secondary schools pose with officials of Republic Bank and BCB following the competition’s launch. play a part in the development of the careers of the youths. Region Six Education Officer with responsibility for Secondary schools, Ms.
Selestina La Rose praised both the RHTY&SC and BCB for promoting the game in schools. The formulation of words, Ms. La Rose stated is
very important in the educational sector and she expressed the hope that the tournament would become an annual affair. Republic Bank,
New Amsterdam Branch Manager Mr. Randolph Sears expressed pleasure that the bank was approached to sponsor the event.
= = = LETTER TO THE SPORTS EDITOR = = =
Absolute silence from General Council continues to fail football DEAR EDITOR, The publication of an article and a letter in S.N (03.04.14 & 04.04.14) captioned “No provisions within FIFA statutes for no confidence motion against sitting President-Says Wayne Forde, Some are working to ensure the present GFF administration fails “ by Eton Moses respectively. Editor, from a layman’s standpoint however, I beg to differ from almost all of the views expressed by both individuals. But nevertheless would remain within the confines of my caption, which by extension I would add “dumb insolence on behalf of the toothless poodles, that masquerade as General Council members”! Needless to say when it matters most no support by the majority is usually forthcoming to pronounce on critical mal-administrative issues that had affected the sport in the past, and presently. Time and space would definitely not enable me to deal with all of the issues presented. With “examples always being better than precepts”, incidentally or coincidentally both individuals, by way of their respective silence, in a tangible way have also contributed to the further demise of the sport, from an administrative perspective! Two typical examples are as follow: 1) In accordance to Wayne Forde. “Right now the GFA is in excess of 20 million dollars in debt following the conclusion of the Banks tournament and in my humble opinion; I believe no one who was part of the GFA Executive
during that period should be eligible to run any football office. This is because for the simple reason that they have failed to explain to the General Council of the GFA how they chalked up so much debt and what are their plans to service the debt of which my club is one of the creditors that they owe huge sums for use of the facility for two consecutive tournaments.” Editor, may, I enquire of Mr. Wayne Forde how the same mistake was made twice of huge sums of money being owed for two consecutive tournaments? Further with the first tournament, “wasn’t the current GFF President, Mr. Christopher Matthias a part of the GFA executive? So, with the application of Forde’s methodology, then Matthias also should not be eligible to hold office at the GFF level! Moreover, initially he was a part of the problem, and failed to be a part of the solution! So, in actuality Mr. Forde there is no need to peruse the FIFA statues to ascertain if a “vote of no confidence” against the GFF President, can be entertained! Rather “dereliction of duty”, half-truths, incompetence, squander mania of scarce finances, distortions and dictatorial unconstitutional policies would all give credence. But wait a minute; I smell a rat or two! Is it because an executive of Fruta Conquerors is touted to become a Vice-President, of the GFF, that Mr. Forde wouldn’t support the vote of no confidence? And why is it as a member of the GFA’s General Council, wasn’t Mr. Forde in the
forefront of advocating to clubs “we wouldn’t participate in any GFA coordinated competition, until such time the financial affairs are fully ventilated,” failing which a vote of no confidence would be tabled against the entire executive? Finally, as it relates to Eton Moses’ letter! In erstwhile I must laud his figurative expressions of convenient interest, despite the fact that he fails to include the USD$22,000 fine imposed by FIFA, due to Guyana’s failure to participate in the CONCACAF Beach Soccer Tournament last year, under
Matthias’ stewardship! Exactly, what role Moses played as a former GFF General Council member, when upon reviewing the inherent $30,000,000 debt cost, cutting measures should have been a “front burner issue”. Rather. Executive members are being blamed for demanding substantial increases in monthly stipends! Does this include the President also, who had expended in excess of $1,000,000 to refurbish his office? Why it is that a personal assistant to the President was hired? Why is
it a non-productive office i.e. Bartica, wasn’t closed? Editor, at this juncture I wouldn’t say any further, but a timely reminder to Mr. Moses. Now that you are outside looking in, many pertinent issues would unravel.” However, constitutional articulation that you failed to pursue in the past could have been concise for associations and affiliates. A typical example is “Loss of Membership”. Was this factor being taken into serious consideration there would have never been, an expanded GFA/Beer K.O tournament,
which to date has failed to honour its financial obligations! Is this what you campaigned and endorsed Matthias’ presidency for? So exposing shortcomings within Upper Demerara, whose executive you were once friendly with, in the bigger picture, the GFA, West Demerara and wherever else Matthias is guaranteed votes, an obscured vision is obtained! Definitely with this level of duplicity existing, the administration of football is sinking further, to an all time low! Can this be disputed? Lester Sealey
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6th annual Republic Bank Inter Zone U-17 tournament launched On Wednesday last, the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) launched the 6th annual Republic Bank Under-17 Inter Zone tournament, an investment of some $200,000 by the bank which will also be providing uniforms for the two teams in the finals. BCB Administrative Officer, Ms. Alisa Moonsee informed that they were once again pleased that Republic Bank was sponsoring the tournament which is a crucial link between the Under-15 and 19 levels in the Ancient County; assisting in the development of young players as they transfer to a higher level. The tournament, Ms. Moonsee stated would
involve West Berbice, New Amsterdam/Canje, Lower Corentyne and Upper Corentyne. New Amsterdam/ Canje would clash with West Berbice while Lower and Upper Corentyne in the opening round of competition with the respective winners going on to play in the finals. The Berbice Under-17 Inter County team would be selected based on performances in this tournament. Republic Bank, New Amsterdam Branch Manager, Mr. Randolph Sears hailed the relationship between the two entities noting that the bank was pleased to be associated with Berbice
cricket while expressing confidence that the tournament would be a success. First Vice President of the BCB Anil Beharry and Chairman of the Special Events committee Hilbert Foster both expressed gratitude to Republic Bank for its continued investment in Berbice. Beharry stated that the BCB would be going into the school system to unearth more talent as the board strives to make sure that the game continues to grow. Foster noted that over the years, Republic Bank has assisted the BCB in several projects including the annual awards ceremony and review magazine.
Rory McIlroy in contention, Bill Haas early leader McIlroy birdied the third to move one under par
Rory McIlroy feels he battled a “very difficult” course set-up as he opened his Masters with a one-under 71 to sit three shots behind leader Bill Haas. The Northern Irishman, 24, bidding to win a
third major, missed a four-foot putt on the last to stay at two under. “When I saw the pin positions I thought they didn’t want people to get too many under par,” said the world number nine.
“The greens are drying out quickly, anything under par is good. By Sunday they are going to be pretty dicey.” McIlroy, who claimed the US Open in 2011 and the PGA Championship in 2012, carded four birdies and three bogeys during his round. Early momentum with two birdies inside five holes was checked with a dropped shot on eight and three putts on the par three 12th saw him lose another stroke. He focused on claiming birdies on the back nine’s two par five holes and admitted he would have been “really happy” with his day had he avoided the dropped shot at the last. “The greens are firming up, the wind was all over the place, it was a good day at the office.” added McIlroy, who forms part of the final group to play on Friday, with a tee time of 18:59 BST. “If conditions stay the same and they put the pin positions in tough spots, it will be tough to get your ball close, so anything even par, (Continued on page 36)
Friday April 11, 2014
Jamaican sprinter Powell banned for 18 months
Asafa Powell
Reuters - Former 100 meters world record holder Asafa Powell was banned for 18 months by a Jamaican anti-doping disciplinary panel on Thursday (yesterday) after he tested positive for a banned substance last year. The Jamaican sprinter, 31, tested positive for the stimulant oxilophrine at last year’s national championships and the ban has been backdated to June 21 2013 - the day he provided the sample. His ban will end on December 20. Powell said he would lodge an appeal against the decision. “This ruling is not only unfair, it is patently unjust,” he said in a statement. The chairman of the three-member disciplinary panel, Lennox Gayle, said: “The panel arrived at a unanimous decision, and it is a decision that in all the circumstances Mr. Powell was found to be negligent and that he was at fault, especially in light of the fact he (is) an elite athlete. “It is our decision that the period of ineligibility will be 18 months commencing from the date of the sample collection ... the period will expire on the 20th of December 2014.” Powell added: “Panels such as these, I understood, were assembled to allow athletes
Messi blamed for... From page 40 underwhelmed when asked about the pattern of games against Atletico Madrid this season. In five matches Barca have scored twice and been unable to beat Diego Simeone’s team. ‘I see no reason why the next match will be any different,’ said Martino to the exasperation of most Barcelona supporters. That next game against Atletico will be Barca’s last match of the domestic season and one they will probably need to win to retain their title. Messi has failed to scored against Atletico in the five matches played and finished woefully from several opportunities in the Calderon on Wednesday night but the Argentine is the least of Barcelona’s problems. They need to rebuild in defensive and goalkeeping positions but are prevented from doing so by their year-long transfer ban. Supporters will now put the club under huge pressure to bring in a new coach or even call elections and vote in a new president. Only a win in next week’s Copa del Rey final will calm their supporters, but with Gerard Pique struggling for fitness and Victor Valdes definitely out their defensive frailties will mean they start the game as clear underdogs.
who, consciously or unconsciously, come into conflict with the rules of sport a chance at equitable redemption. Unfortunately, this was not the case. “This is the first time in nearly 12 years of being in the sport and over 150 tests that I have had an adverse finding. It is for a stimulant, a stimulant that is only banned during competition and experts have declared has no performance enhancing effects. “Sanctions for a stimulant and this kind of infraction usually range from public warnings to a ban of three months, six months in the most extreme cases; I was and am still more than prepared to accept a sanction that is in line with the offence. Instead, nine months later, what has been handed down is clearly not based on the offence nor the facts surrounding it. “My team has begun preparations for an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland. “I want to reiterate that I have never knowingly taken any banned substances.” Powell’s sanction comes two days after his former training partner Sherone Simpson received an 18-month suspension from the same panel for the same substance. Another Jamaican, Olympic discus thrower Allison Randall, was also handed a two-year ban for using the prohibited diuretic hydrochlorothiazide on Tuesday. Powell was not at the hearing but his lead attorney, Kwame Gordon, told Reuters: “We are disappointed that having had two months to review the matter and provided all the evidence, we have no written reasons and the sanction would imply that the athlete is being held at a certain standard. “It would have been, I think, appropriate if the panel had applied the same standard to themselves and provided us with written reasons.” Powell, who missed last year’s world championships as a result of his failed test, had testified in January that Canadian physical trainer Chris Xuereb provided him with nine supplements, including Epiphany D1. Xuereb denied providing performance enhancing drugs and said the sprinters should take responsibility for their failed dope tests. Powell, twice a 100m world championship bronze medalist, said: “As an athlete, I took a legal supplement - Ephiphany D1. As it turns out, that supplement was contaminated with oxilofrine. “My team commissioned two private laboratories that confirmed that oxilofrine was present in the supplements, despite it not being listed as an ingredient on the bottle nor on its website. “I would also like to share that upon realizing that the supplement contained oxilofrine, my team made contact with both the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), who not only ordered samples of the supplement from the manufacturer but also tested and confirmed our findings. “USADA has also since issued a warning on their website for athletes to avoid the product as it contains banned substances. “I did all the necessary checks before taking Ephiphany D1, and it is my hope that the CAS will prove to be a more open and fair avenue for the review of all the facts in my case.” IAAF spokesman Chris Turner declined to comment on Powell’s punishment, saying only: “This is a legal process following IAAF rules which are in accordance with those of WADA and the IAAF does not comment until cases are closed. “This case concerns an international athlete and the full, reasoned decision of the member federation has to be sent to the IAAF and considered by the doping review board.”
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Leaders T&T face bottom placed ASSOCIATES TO GET A Guyana from today at Providence SHOT AT TEST CRICKET By Sean Devers When Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago clash from today in the final round of the 2014 Regional FourDay Cricket Tournament at Providence, T&T will be going all out for an outright win to give them their sixth First-Class title, and first in eight years. Guyana, winless in this year’s tournament and at the bottom of the points table and have also been hit by more injury problems. Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul and batsman Chanderpaul Hemraj are both ill and will be replaced by dropped legspinner Devendra Bishoo and batsman Vishal Singh while yesterday Test batsman Assad Fudadin was replaced by Christopher Barnwell. Permaul and Hemraj have contracted chicken pox while Fudadin has a back injury. Guyana have lost four of their five matches and the selection of Bishoo ahead of West Indies Under-19 left-arm spinner Godakesh MottieKhanai is a strange one while Singh who was unlucky to be dropped in the first place, returns to the side. Both teams have won 11 matches against each other from 50 games at this level while 28 of those encounters have ended in draws. “This game is very important since a win here will give us our first title at this level in eight years,” Coach Kelvin Williams told Kaieteur Sports yesterday. He added that it will take a total team effort to come out on top in what will be their second away game of the season. T&T’s first away match, against Barbados ended in an innings and 160 runs defeat for T&T. T&T has won all four of their home games to take the lead in the round robin phase of the Regional Four-day Championship. The top four teams after the round robin phase advance to the semi-finals where they will vie for the George Headley/Everton Weekes Trophy. T&T are guaranteed a place in the top two and will host one of the semi-finals. “We are at the top of the championship and a win against Guyana will see us clinch the trophy but at the end of the day, we need to play to win it. Everybody needs to bring their ‘A’ game and make sure they play a part for our success,” he added. Even though his team is at the top of the standings on
72 points, seven better than second-placed Barbados and third-placed Windward Islands, who are both on 65, Williams says his side’s batting has been unpredictable. “I think the batting has not been convincing. It is unpredictable. Sometimes we have a big score and other times we struggle, but I think if the batting can click on a consistent basis I will be happy,” said Williams. Williams spoke highly of the young players in the team that have filled the gap left by the seniors. “After scoring a century against the Leewards 20-year-old Akeal Hosein picked up a leg injury and has been out of the team since and Left-arm spinner Ricky Jaipaul took 4-56 on debut against CCC.” Williams concluded. The Guyanese are also without most of the senior players but Coach Esaun Crandon feels they would end the tournament on a high at home. “This also an important game for us since although we can’t win the title, the players should all be playing for pride and personal glory while winning this game could also be vital to the revival of Guyana’s cricket,” Crandon said. “Team spirit and confidence are a bit low in the camp and a match winning performance here will do the players, especially the younger ones the world of good. We dropped too many catches in the last match and bowled poorly on the last day when we should have won the game. But we have discussed what went wrong. It’s now up to the players to go out there and show improvement,” Crandon
pointed out. Guyana, with just 21 points from five matches, will hope for a repeat of their 1993 fortunes when they bowled out T&T for 85 at Blairmont in Berbice and will hope that Test spinner Bishoo regains his form and get support from Amir Khan and Zaheer Mohamed. Pacers Keon Joseph, Ronsford Beaton and Ruan Johnson could find work hard on what is expected to be another slow track. Guyana’s batting has been their main worry this season and a lot will depend on Skipper Leon Johnson, their most complete batsman, to lead from the front. Taignarine Chanderpaul and Trevon Griffith will be keen to give their team a solid foundation for Johnson, Singh, Mohamed, Barnwell and Anthony Bramble to build on. Even without Kieran Pollard, who scored a ton in the last game, and his IPL colleges, Dwayne Bravo, Ravi Rampaul, Sunil Narine, T&T has capable replacements in Lendl Simmons, who returns to the team, Darren Bravo, Adrian Barath, Jason Mohamed, Evin Lewis, Imran Khan and Skipper Rayed Emrit with the bat. Te s t p a c e r S h a n n o n Gabriel, Guyanese born pacer Marlon Richards and spinners Amit Jaggernauth, Khan and Jaipaul could do the bulk of the bowling for T&T. T&T: Rayad Emrit (Captain), Adrian Barath, Evin Lewis, Darren Bravo, Jason Mohammed, Jonathan Augustus, Imran Khan, Steven Katwaroo, Shannon Gabriel, Amit Jaggernauth, Lendl Simmons, Ricky Jaipaul, Marlon Richards. Guyana: Leon Johnson (Captain), Christopher Barnwell, Amir Khan, Trevon Griffith, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Zaheer Mohamed, Ronsford Beaton, Anthony Bramble, Devendra Bishoo, Shimron Hetmyer, Raun Johnson, Keon Joseph, Vishaul Singh.
Bill Express makes... From page 42 feature annually on the Club’s activity calendar according to Stewart. And receiving a monetary contribution along with some branded items for an annual Kite flying competition was Event Coordinator of the Energy Entertainment Group, Cordel Prescod. The annual Kite Flying competition
which is in its fourth year targets residents, mainly children and young people in the Campbellville area and surrounding communities. Since the start of the competition, Bill Express has been sponsoring the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in the most creative kite category. This year, patrons are challenged to make Bill Express branded kites.
Associate teams will have the opportunity to play Test cricket, with the ICC Board approving an ICC Test Challenge, which will take place every four years between the lowest-ranked Test team and the winner of the ICC Intercontinental Cup. The inaugural Test Challenge will take place in 2018, with the intention of giving a context to the Intercontinental Cup. The Intercontinental Cup, spread out over two years, is a first-class tournament played among the Associate teams. According to the new proposal, the side ranked 10th in the ICC Test rankings on December 31, 2017, or at the conclusion of any series in progress at that time, will play two five-day Tests at home and two five-day Tests away against the winner of the upcoming Intercontinental Cup. The next Intercontinental Cup will run from 2015 to 2017, and the next edition from 2019 to 2021. The second ICC Test Challenge is scheduled for 2022. Since the Intercontinental Cup’s inception in 2004, Ireland have won it four times, with Afghanistan and Scotland winning one each. The new proposal will give promising teams like Ireland a chance to take their international cricket to the next level. “The ICC Test Challenge now opens the door for Associate Members to play Test cricket and in doing so gives even greater context to the ICC Intercontinental Cup which will now be a pathway to Test cricket,” ICC chief executive David Richardson, said at the end of the two-day board meeting in Dubai. The Test challenge is not, however, intended to be a relegation process for any Full Member who may be defeated in the contest. Full Member nations will not, it is understood, lose their status
Promising Associates like Ireland have a chance to take their international cricket to the next level © ICC/Saleem Sanghati and voting rights and their FTP arrangements are also expected to be completed. The Board has agreed to set in place the Test challenge and its structure, format and principles will be passed through following at the ICC’s annual conference. During the previous ICC Board meeting in February 8, the Board had gained the necessary votes to approve a large number of sweeping changes relating to the governance, financing and structure of international cricket. One of the cornerstones of the new financial model is an extended Future Tours Programme (FTP) which will now run until 2023, and while it may still be monitored by the ICC, it is expected to comprise bilateral memorandum of understandings that are binding. “The FTP is a very important piece of work as it gives Members long-term certainty in relation to both their playing schedule and financial planning,” Richardson said. “Significant progress has been made but there is still work to be done to develop a balanced
calendar of tours and finalise these agreements.” The ICC Board also authorised the drawing up of the necessary constitutional amendments which will be placed before the Full Council at the ICC Annual Conference to be held in Melbourne at the end of June. These amendments refer to the creation of a new commercial arm of the ICC as well as the changes in the administrative structures, pertaining to the chairmanship and the creation of a new all-powerful panel called the Executive Committee. In other developments, the ICC has agreed to retain the format of the World T20 for the next edition, to be held in India in 2016. For the next tournament, the top eight Full Members on the ICC T20I rankings, as on April 30 2014, will automatically qualify for the second round, while the ninth and 10th ranked Full Members will get automatic places in the first (qualifying) round. Six qualifiers will progress from the 14-team ICC World T20 Qualifier in 2015, which will be staged in Ireland and Scotland from July 9 to August 2 2015.
LORD COE INTERESTED IN IAAF PRESIDENTIAL BID Lord Coe has indicated to BBC Sport that he will seek the International Association of Athletics Federations presidency next year. Lamine Diack, 80, will step down in 2015 after 16 years in charge of the body that governs world athletics. “I will have to think long and hard about it,” replied Englishman Coe, 57. But the double Olympic champion added: “It’s my sport and it’s the basis of everything I’ve ever done, so why wouldn’t I want to take that role?” Coe, who won 1500m gold at the 1980 and 1984 Olympics, is currently one of three vicepresidents of the IAAF, along with former Ukrainian pole vaulter Sergey Bubka and
Qatari Dahlan Jumaan al-Hamad. He is also chairman of the British Olympic Association and led the team that staged the 2012 Olympics in London. Coe said he was sure other people would be interested in becoming IAAF president but added: “I’ve always said that if I’m given the opportunity to shape the future of my sport I will grab it.” Diack, a former long jumper from Senegal, has backed Coe, an ex-politician, as a potential successor. “He is a wonderful leader,” said Diack, who praised Coe for his organisation of the London Games. “He was a wonderful athlete and he is a competent man.” (BBCSport)
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Friday April 11, 2014
DCB/Diamond Fire & General Insurance U-19 cricket...
Albert, Sattaur, Ramlakan spur E/Coast to 3-Wkt win over W/Dem By Sean Devers Led by a five-wicket haul from off-spinner Vivian Albert and half-centuries by Brian Sattaur and Vishwanauth Ramlakan, East Coast beat East Bank by three-wickets in the second round of the Demerara Cricket Board/ Diamond Fire & General Insurance Under-19 50-over cricket tournament at the Enmore ground yesterday. Albert took 5-37 to restrict West Demerara to 1569 off 41 overs after seepage under the covers caused a delay of 102 minutes before Sattaur, who hammered seven fours and two sixes in a pugnacious 61 and Ramlakan, who hit seven boundaries in a solid 52 spearheaded East Coast to 159-7 from 35.5 overs despite a tidy spell of leg-spin bowling by Eshan Alli who finished with 4-37. Earlier, Deonarine Seegobin’s 37 and Ryan Shun’s 36 provided East Bank, who were asked to bat in overcast conditions on a sluggish pitch, with a firm foundation of 76 before Albert, who extracted prodigious turn removed
Vivian Albert collects his Man-of-the-Match trophy from Chairman of Selectors Nazimul Drepaul them both to start a slide which saw them losing nine wickets for 80 runs on the fairly fast outfield. Shun was the first to go in the 23rd over before two wickets fell in the space of two runs when Andrew Chung was run out for a duck and Damion Waldron disturbed the stumps of Daniel Barker (2) as East Bank slipped to 783. Seegobin hit three fours in
his innings but was removed by Albert who bowled with good flight and variation to leave the score on 90-4. No batter after that, except Stephon Browne (16) reached 15. Albert got rid of Browne, Ricky Debidial (7) and Vikash Rampersaud (13) while Rashad Ali was run out for 13 . Micheal Sulton, who threw his bat around and hit the only six of the innings in his
seepage on the pitch. The host lost an early wicket when Kevin Seepersaud (00) was run out in the first over with only one run on the board. Renee and Travis Persaud (18) added 57 for the second wicket to lay the foundation for a respectable total before Persaud was bowled by leg spinner Steven Sankar. Chaitnarine Pooran (01) soon lost his stumps to Georgetown skipper Michael Shallim before Renee and Hubbard put together 43 for the third wicket. The duo rotated the strike
sensibly, but just as Renne appeared set for a well deserved half century he was caught off Tariq Dharanlall for 47 with seven fours off 87 balls at 100-4. West Demerara then lost Avenash Dhaniram (05) before Hubbard and Daniel Basdeo dominated the opposition’s bowling which was sometimes wayward, taking their team to 200 in the process. Part time seamer Tevin Imlach gave his team the breakthrough with the wicket of Basdeo who stroked 44 with three fours off 49 balls. Kevin Paul joined Hubbard and the pair entertained the small but vocal crowd with some lusty hitting towards the end. Hubbard who was later named man-of-the-match ended unbeaten on 56 while Paul finished on 23 not out (1x4 2x6). The right handed Hubbard faced 98 balls and reached the ropes on five occasions. Dharanlall, Steven Sankar, Imlach, Rajendra Dhanraj and Shallim claimed one wicket each. Georgetown were bowled out for 171 in 42.1 overs in reply. Opener Sunil Singh (00) was bowled behind his back by medium pacer Paul in the first over with the score on one, but Imlach and Sherfene Rutherford stabilized the chase with a second wicket
Brian Sattaur hits a big six over mid-wicket during his 61 at Enmore yesterday unbeaten 14, ensured the total passed 150. When East Coast began their reply, National Under-19 left-hander Sattaur started in typical aggressive fashion before his opening partner Ramnarine Chatura, who scored a cultured half century against defending champions West Demerara in the first round on Tuesday, was trapped LBW to Browne for two at 16-1.
Left-hander Rudolph Singh just off a shot-filled 97 in the first round and on his home ground was LBW to Alli for 11 and when the explosive Sattaur who reached his 50 from just 54 balls fell two balls later trying to hit Alli out of the ground and was taken at long-on, East Bank were fighting back. However, Ramlakan showing a level head remained almost to the
end before being needlessly run out with victory three runs away. The final round of the competition with Georgetown facing East Coast at Everest and West Demerara, who kept hopes alive of retaining their title had a well earned win against the City side, face off with East Bank at Wales. Both matches are scheduled to commence at 09:30hrs.
West Demerara humble Georgetown by 60 runs
By Zaheer Mohamed West Demerara defeated Georgetown by 60 runs in their second round game of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB)/Demerara Fire and General Insurance Company Inter Association Under-19 50-overs tournament yesterday at Wales. Outstanding batting performances by Malcolm Hubbard, Ronaldo Renee and Daniel Basdeo guided West Demerara who batted first to a challenging 231-6 after the game was reduced to 48 overs due to a late start caused by
Messi blamed for Barcelona’s defeat after running just a mile more than the KEEPER Lionel Messi’s failure to have any impact against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night and coach Gerardo Martino’s inability to do anything about it dominated the inquest into Barcelona’s dismal Champions League exit. ‘He ran only one mile more than goalkeeper Pinto’ ran one headline as postmatch statistics revealed the Argentine had covered 4.2 miles during the game - half that of Atletico match winner Koke. ‘We weren’t really
interested in Leo having a lot of participation in the game’ were the words that will come back to haunt Martino after the 1-0 defeat. He had been asked why Messi saw so little of the ball in Atletico’s win. We really only wanted him to have one-on-one opportunities down the righthand side,’ said the coach effectively ripping up the Pep Guardiola blueprint that has made Messi Barca’s fulcrum over the last six years. The coach also (Continued on page 36)
Man-of-the-Match Malcolm Hubbard (left) collects his trophy from DCB Vice President, Anand Sanasie. partnership of 59. Rutherford signaled his intentions early by hitting left arm pacer Basdeo for consecutive fours over mid wicket forcing West Demerara captain Travis Persaud to replace him {Basdeo} with off spinner Richie Looknauth. The move did not matter much to Rutherford who pulled the spinner over the mid wicket fence for a couple of maximums before Paul ended their resistance with
the wicket of Imlach LBW for 11. Persaud then turned to his most experienced slow bowler, Hubbard. The change brought immediate success as the off spinner trapped Dhanraj LBW (03) at 65-3 and had Rutherford caught at short mid wicket two runs later. Rutherford departed for 44 (5x4 3x6). Clevon Mc Ewan was then run out in a terrible mix up with Kemol Savory as Georgetown found
themselves in trouble at 68-5. Savory and Dharanlall tried to keep their team in the hunt with a sixth wicket stand of 54 before Dharanlall was caught behind for 23 (2x4). When Savory was stumped by Renee off Persaud for 27 (2x4) at 124-7 the rest of the batting folded meekly to give the home team a well deserved victory. Hubbard grabbed 4-26 off 10 overs while Paul and Looknauth had two apiece.
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Pacquiao has lost his fire, says Bradley before rematch R e u t e r s - Ti m o t h y Bradley Jr. believes a lengthy and successful career has sapped Manny Pacquiao of his motivation, and that their WBO welterweight title bout tomorrow may be one fight too many for the Filipino legend. “I think he may lack fire,” the American told journalists in Las Vegas. “His motivation is not there. He’s been at the top for a very long time. He has over 60 fights in the ring with all the best. He’s 36 years old. Maybe this is one fight too late for him.” Bradley (31-0, 12 KOs) is defending the WBO belt he won from Pacquiao in a controversial fight in June 2012. Most ringside observers felt Pacquiao won comfortably, but after 12 rounds Bradley was awarded a split decision victory. In the aftermath, Bradley
says, fans aimed their anger at him. “I got letters from fans belittling me like crazy, telling me I’m not a true champion,” he said, adding that he also received an anonymous death threat in the mail. “It’s really hard to swallow. That night, man, I did my job. I thought the fight was very close. I thought the decision could go either way. But the fact that they gave it to me - I thought it was fair.” If the winner ’s experience in the aftermath was negative, the man who officially lost the fight seems to be at ease with what happened. “In this sport, sometimes you’re on the winner’s side, sometimes you’re on the loser’s side, so you have to prepare for that,” Pacquiao told reporters at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, where the fight will take place.
GCA competitions continue this weekend
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eorgetown C r i c k e t Association (GCA) competitions continue tomorrow with first and second division games. In the Hadi’s World City Mall Inc. first-division 2d a y, P o l i c e w i l l h o s t Demerara Cricket Club with Colin Alfred and Deon Feassal umpiring. GNIC will take on Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) at Malteenoes Sports Club, Mario Nicholls and Ryan Banwarie will be in charge. In the Noble House Sea Foods second-division 2d a y ; M u s l i m Yo u t h Organisation will entertain
Everest Cricket Club under the watchful eyes of Moses Ramnarine and Ernest Hinds. Transport Sports Club will do battle against St. Stanislaus at GYO, Cyril Garnath and Chetram Persaud will call play; Guyana Defense Force hosts Georgetown Cricket Club with Zaheer Mohamed and Clyde Layne being the m a t c h o ff i c i a l s w h i l e Malteenoes SC challenges Third Class at UG under the guidance of Heuvel Cunha and Leyland Liverpool. First division games commence at 09:30hrs with second division matches starting at 11:00hrs.
Everest oppose Florida Masters today As part of their 100th Anniversary celebrations Everest Cricket Club will take on Florida Masters in a 30- over match today starting at 11:00 hrs. Team Everest will come from Rajesh Singh (Captain), Sheik Mohamed, Basil Persaud, Hemraj Garbarran, Shaheed Mohamed, Ravindranauth Seeram, David Harper, Rakesh Gangaram, Sudesh Persaud, Paul Parsram, Asif Khan, Ronald Jaisingh,
Jhonny Azeez and Rohan Sarjoo. Florida Masters is made up of Wayne Ramnarine, Mohamed Sadick, Brandon Dunbar, Kemar Wright, Neville Dawkins, Ayaz Mohamed, Jaikaran Babooram, Altab Mohamed, Munzin Nancoo, Hal Martin, Ricky Kissoon, Cornel White and Jason Nancoo. Meanwhile, a dominoes competition is also slated for the day starting at 18:00hrs. Admission is free.
“I never complain. In boxing, it’s part of the sport. If you don’t want to lose, then don’t fight.” But Pacquiao (55-5-2, 38 KOs) is facing questions as the rematch approaches. He has not scored a knockout since stopping Miguel Cotto in November 2009, and was himself knocked out at the end of the sixth round by Juan Manuel Marquez in his first outing after the Bradley fight. Pacquiao professes to be unconcerned by his recent
knockout drought, asserting that he was on the verge of stopping Marquez until walking into a right hand from the Mexican. “If he didn’t get me in six rounds, by seven rounds I could have finished him,” he said. “But by being careless, that’s what happened.” Besides, he argued, “if the knockout comes, it comes, but my focus is to be aggressive and throw a lot of punches and make the fans happy.” Bradley, on the other
Manny Pacquiao (L) and the undefeated WBO welterweight champion Timothy Bradley pose during a news conference at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada hand, is confident that this time he is the one who will be making fans happy. “I
know this is my time,” he said. “It’s my time, it’s my moment.”
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Kaieteur News
Bill Express makes timely contribution to organisations’ Easter activities
In this composite photo, Marketing Manager of Western Union Natheeah King-Mandonca (left) presents Leon Stewart with the tee-shirts and right, Cordel Pescod receives his sponsorship cheque.
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wo organisations were recently given a timely boost by Grace Kennedy Remittance Services (GUY) Ltd, under that company’s Bill Express brand to pull off separate events planned for the Easter holiday. The two organisations that benefitted from the Company’s goodwill included Phoenix Athletic Club out of Bartica and Energy Entertainment Group. Leon Stewart, member of the Phoenix Athletic Club was one of the recipients who
received a quantity of Bill Express branded T-shirts for an upcoming event that the club will host which is dubbed the “Easter Athletic championship”. The event is scheduled for tomorrow at the Bartica Community Center Ground and is expected to feature races in the 100 metres categories for Under-10 to open levels athletes, both males and females. This event along with the club’s Day/Night sports held in October will now (Continued on page 35 )
Friday April 11, 2014
Ravens makes donation to Ptolemy Reid Centre
Ravens’ senior guard, Marlon Rodrigues hands over the donation to Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre while other members of the Centre and Ravens players and coach, Darcel Harris share the moment .
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ndoubtedly, one o f G u y a n a ’s p r e m i e r basketball clubs, Dyna’s Ravens made a timely donation to the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre yesterday in an effort to “give as they receive”, which catapulted the Ravens basketball organisation to a next level. “It is our general rule in Ravens that we always give 10% or more, nothing less, after receiving prize monies etc., hence giving as we receive is one of our mottos. Over the years we have made a number of significant donations and we do intend to continue this trend,” Ravens coach, Darcel Harris told Kaieteur Sport.
“As a team, we know God and we always pray for his guidance, strength and his covering before and after each game. So giving back to charity is our way of saying thanks for our continued success over the years,” Harris continued yesterday. Barring a brief slump last year, Ravens have had tremendous success on the local basketball scene. Ravens had won the first Phillip George Memorial title late in 2012 then went on to win a second accolade in two weeks with the Albert Bentick prize; the team then won the Pepsi Series for their third title to close 2012 before their “slump” early last year. Since that time, Ravens have gone on to win the
Brusche’s Classic in Linden, beating the number one ranked, Pacesetters to advance to the finals. They also won another Phillip George title while finishing just short of beating Suriname’s top club in an exchange programme. The upsurge for Ravens continued with an unblemished record on their way to winning the 2014 Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) National Club Championships. It is an assertion that suggested that the club is back on its proverbial pinnacle. Moreso, yesterday’s contributions to charity separated the club from others nationally. (Edison Jefford)
Heat top lineup of int’l preseason games Reuters - The two-time defending champion Miami Heat will be among five National Basketball Association teams playing preseason games in four countries this October as part of the league’s effort to connect with fans globally. The Heat, Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings and San Antonio Spurs will play a series of games in five cities in Brazil, China, Germany, and Turkey, the league said in a statement. Regular-season international games will be announced at a later date, according to the NBA. Miami and Cleveland will play the NBA’s second game in South America when the
LeBron James teams meet on October 11 in Rio de Janeiro. The series will also include two games in China between the Brooklyn Nets and Sacramento Kings on October 12 in Shanghai and on October 15 in Beijing. The San Antonio Spurs
travel to Europe for games against eight-time German champions Alba Berlin on October 8 in Germany before traveling to Istanbul for a meeting with five-time Turkish champions Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul on October 11.
Friday April 11, 2014
Kaieteur News
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GFF names Technical Team Moore leaves today for CFU U-17 Championships for USA Tournament
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he Guyana Football Federation (GFF) in preparation for the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Under-17 Championship scheduled for July/August 2014, has selected its Technical Team. Head Coach is Mr. Bilaal Nantambu who would be assisted by Ms. Chevon Monchoir and Mr. Anthony Stephens (Developmental). Ms. Charlene Henry will perform duties as the Physiotherapist while the seasoned Andrew Hazel has been appointed as Goalkeeping Coach. Mr. Carlos Bernard takes up duties as Manager of the team while Mr. Trevor Beckles is the Physical Trainer.
Bain aiming to be Caribbean’s top marksman Kithson Bain
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rovidence, Guyana - Kithson Bain’s name is being debated among observers in the region following his clinical performances for Alpha United in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Championship, scoring goals in wins against both Harbour View and Defence Force. In large part to his offensive exploits, The Hammer finished atop the Group 3 table and qualified for the 2014/15 CONCACAF Champions League (CCL) as one of the region’s three representatives. Even though the Grenada international has certainly started the year on a high, he is of the view that there is still more work to be done before he reaches his peak.
The soft spoken Bain wants this season to be his best and looks forward to bigger things with an organization to which he has become extremely attached. “I consider myself an integral part of Alpha now and really appreciate playing for this club,” the 31-yearold told CONCACAF.com. “One of my aims is to look for bigger contracts based on my performances this season. I’m being more exposed to the world of football, which is good for me. I also want to become the top goal scorer in the CFU and CONCACAF.” Taking his game to another level and the sport in the Caribbean to greater heights are all on the horizon for the former Tranmere Rovers forward.
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uyana Football F e d e r a t i o n ’s ( G F F ) F I FA International Referee, Sherwin Moore is scheduled to represent Guyana at the 35th Annual Dr. Pepper Dallas Cup 2014 in Dallas, Texas, USA from April 13-20. Moore has been a FIFA Referee since 2012 and has officiated in a number of major CFU and CONCACAF tournaments, such as the
CONCACAF Champions League in 2013. He has also benefitted from attendance at a number of CONCACAF Referees Symposiums, showing tremendous growth and improvement and as a consequence has been selected by CONCACAF to represent Guyana at the Dr. Pepper Dallas Cup 2014 Tournament. Moore is scheduled to depart Guyana today.
Sherwin Moore
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Leaders T&T face bottom placed Guyana from today at Providence
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Devendra Bishoo takes a catch during practice yesterday.
6th annual Republic Bank Inter Zone U-17 tournament launched P. 38
Taignarine Chanderpaul bats in the nets at Providence yesterday.
Republic Bank Manager Mr. Randolph Sears hands over sponsorship cheque to Ms. Alisa Moonsee, at right is BCB 1st VP, Anil Beharry.
COUNTDOWN 61 DAYS TO GO DCB/DIAMOND FIRE & GENERAL INSURANCE U-19 CRICKET...
Albert, Sattaur, Ramlakan spur P. 39 West Demerara humble E/Coast to 3-Wkt win over W/Dem Georgetown by 60 runs Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210