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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
INDISCIPLINE IS RAMPANT
The police have long declared zero tolerance against those who seem bent on breaking the traffic laws, but this has not proven a deterrent. Errant motorists continue to exist in large numbers on the streets and they continue to leave a trail of disaster. Just this week a minibus driver came speeding down the East Bank Demerara roadway and plunged into the trench alongside the Rotunda, home of Banks DIH Limited. No one died but people would later talk about the two babies who had to be rescued from the trench along with sixteen other passengers. Certainly, the bus was overloaded but the driver despite passing a number of police stations and police patrols, was able to proceed along his merry way. Then there were the passengers who said that they kept appealing to the driver to slow down but that he only responded with vile language. None of the passengers demanded to be let off almost immediately perhaps because they felt that they would have had a long wait for the next available transport. And had there not been the crash, none would have reported to the police that they had been appealing to the driver to slow down and that he cussed them out. There have been a few who actually reported errant minibus drivers to the police and had these people prosecuted but not nearly enough of the travelling public do this to enforce the regulations. Indeed the driver fled the scene of the accident and to this day there has been no report of his arrest. The police by their actions often encourage the recalcitrant behavior. People report that they become judge and jury on the road. They ‘fine’ the errant driver and send him on his way. The fine does not end up in the public coffers. A few years ago, the police on West Berbice had a system that drastically reduced the spate of accidents on that stretch of roadway between Rosignol and Abary. When vehicles drove off the Rosignol Ferry they were made to line up behind a police patrol car which then led the way toward the city. Resources sometimes play a crucial role in curtailing certain operations. The police lost vehicles for one reason or the other and the cost of fuel proved too much for the police division to maintain the patrols. Now certain police details are tackling the lawlessness. Many vehicles, despite the law, are heavily tinted. And they do not have the necessary permission to wear such tints. The police, on the spot, make the drivers remove the tints. But the police can only do so much; a lot depends on the magistracy. We have heard motorists actually smiling at the penalty because inflation has eroded the intended effect. Gone are the days when $10,000 had some value. Today that is less than a day’s pay for many minibus drivers. But that fine, and less, is the penalty imposed by the courts for infractions of the traffic rules. Small wonder that the drivers smile and return to breaking the law. This is not the only time that the courts have come in for flack for allowing the police to do the hard work only to see the courts let the people go with either a tap on the wrist or to have the court prolong the trial until witnesses disappear and the case dies. These are administrative matters and they demand an administrative solution. So far, people affected by the apparent absence of punishment for the law breakers complain but do little else. The existing political system may be the case. However, it is time that people do much more. They are the ones who are the victims, the people who do not have money to pursue legal action, and the ones who have the greatest power to effect change. It is sickening to see what happens on the street. A pregnant woman collapses on the city streets after a car hits the minibus in which she was travelling. The errant driver merely claims that she did not see the minibus so she did not stop at the major road. In court she is going to walk away with a slap on the wrist if any.
Thursday April 17, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
An inappropriate, misguided, and extremely problematic greeting DEAR EDITOR, What does it say about a nation when the first thing offered to those arriving to its shores is alcohol? Yes, Guyana makes excellent rum. No, I am not a teetotaler; I do drink. However, I was appalled at the sight that greeted me at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on Monday, April 14th 2014 - of several women serving plastic cups of rum punch to the disembarking passengers. There were many young people in the crowd and I witnessed several of them gleefully accepting and imbibing the alcoholic beverage offered. At no point in time was any attempt made to ascertain whether they were underage or not. I know rum punch does not contain a great deal of rum and that one cup alone is unlikely to cause any major problems, but that is not the point. The point is that we
have a problem with alcohol use and abuse here in Guyana. We are not a society that imbibes moderately; instead alcohol abuse is widespread, at all levels of society contributing significantly to many societal problems such as interpersonal violence, traffic accidents, etc. As such, it is bizarre and appalling to me that given such occurrences someone would think that handing out free cups of an alcoholic beverage to all and sundry at the national airport would be a good idea. I have traveled a fair bit to points all across the globe but at no time - not even when I arrived at Piarco, Trinidad, on the eve of Carnival - was I ever offered an alcoholic beverage upon landing. I can understand the impulse to showcase a Guyanese product. However, there are other smarter, less problematic items that do not come with
the negative impact of alcohol which could have been proffered (baigan choka and bake for example, which I read that recent UK tourists were recently feted with). This would have made more sense and been gladly accepted, since we had not been provided breakfast on the plane. The choice of rum p u n c h h o w e v e r, w a s inappropriate, misguided, and calls into question the common sense of those in charge. I would like to know who made this mindboggling decision to share out this alcoholic beverage at the CJIA. What role did the rummaking companies play in making this possible? How long has this been going on? I don’t know if the Minister of Health is aware of this, but if he isn’t, I hope that this letter will serve to bring it to his attention. I urge him to investigate this occurrence at the CJIA and
provide sober guidance to these impaired hospitality decision-makers. To do otherwise is to promote a culture of lawlessness, one that disregards the health and well-being of the Guyanese people and society. Let us make better choices - for ourselves, for our community, and for our nation. Let us not just drink up and wine down as our society crumbles around us. Let us see some thoughtful and positive decisionmaking. That would make Guyana a real tourist attraction and pleasure to come home to. Failing that, if reality-altering substances are going to continue to be handed out at the national airport to all, let me suggest the humble cannabis instead of rum punch. At least then, some enlightenment might be attained, instead of just mindless obliviousness. Sherlina Nageer
The Pensioners’ Subsidy is not a waiver for water service charges DEAR EDITOR, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) wishes to respond to your article, dated Tuesday April 15 2014 titled ‘Pensioner accuses GWI of overbilling’. GWI thanks your publication for consistently highlighting the issues which affect our customers. The utility wishes to advise that Mr. Simon D. Chesney’s water service account was credited with
G$8, 976.00 in 2013 and 2014 as provided by Government of Guyana Pensioners’ Subsidy for water service. However, despite the inclusion of the Pensioners’ Subsidy for both years, an outstanding balance remains. The customer’s account indicates that his consumption incurred charges that exceed the subsidy granted by the Government. An investigation into the
DEAR EDITOR, I write to openly congratulate the Commander and Deputy Commander of ‘C’ Division of the Guyana Police Force for their initiative to go into communities and meet with residents to address crimes and to generally close the gap which currently exists between citizenry and the Police. After a successful evening in Beterverwagting led by Senior Superintendent Kissoon, Assistant Commissioner Griffith and his Deputy, Mr. Kissoon was very frank and incisive at their engagement in Enmore on Tuesday evening. Residents complained against the attitude of ranks at the Enmore Police Station and both Senior Officers
promised to initiate steps to improve the image of the Division. As evidence of their commitment, several interventions were made Wednesday morning, where certain hot spots in Enmore were raided. Residents promised to work along with the Police to provide vital intelligence in the fight against crime, while the Police committed to treat with confidentiality, sensitive information given to them. Commander Griffith assured residents that Police fan outs are ongoing and Hope West and Foulis will be venues targeted in the near future. Jainauth Bhikhari Chairman, Enmore/ Hope NDC
cause of the high consumption meter readings will be conducted by GWI in light of Mr. Chesney’s statements about his low consumption habits. In addition, GWI management will explore waiving a portion of the outstanding debt in light of the testimony provided by the pensioner and his family members regarding his
circumstances. The company wishes to reiterate that the Pensioners’ Subsidy is not a waiver for water service charges and any consumption that exceeds the fixed subsidy must be paid for by the pensioner. Pensioners are urged to monitor household consumption of water in order to avoid paying for (Continued on page 8)
A major concern Kudos to ‘C’ Division in Golden Grove and Nabaclis DEAR EDITOR, There is a major concern, which we, the residents of Golden Grove and Nabaclis would like to highlight to the relevant authorities. There are two roads in the villages, which are in dire need of urgent repairs. To begin with is the side line dam that separates Nabaclis and Golden Grove. This road is in a deplorable condition, with dozens of potholes, giving vehicle drivers and owners innumerable problems. There are hundreds of residents who have to traverse the area on a daily basis, with the use of taxis, and the drivers are now contemplating
abandoning this route out of fear that their vehicles will be further damaged. Then there is the Nabaclis middle walk, which is a bit more accessible, but is also in a deplorable state. Drivers have to be extra careful when traversing sections of this road. Very soon, the rainy season will grace our shores, and we are kindly asking those in authority to look into our problem as a case of emergency, because if these roads are left unattended and the rains come, it will be a burden and plenty hardship for the commuters, drivers and vehicle owners on the whole. Fitzroy Hughes
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
Prisons, cemeteries, garbage and Our ancestors came with, learnt mashramani should be privatized and practiced racist behaviour too DEAR EDITOR, “But let me make our position clear on this issue. While the People’s National Congress (PNC) remains in office, the bauxite industry, the sugar industry and the other strategic industries which we have nationalized in this country will never, never, never be denationalized. For one thing, to do this would be an admission that we are abandoning the socialist ideal, and we have no intention of doing that.” Such was the reassurance given by no other than President Desmond Hoyte at the PNC’s sixth biennial congress on 19th August 1985. However in late 1988, with Guyana’s economy on the verge of collapse, President Hoyte implemented an IMF Economic Recovery Programme (ERP) inspired by the World Bank. The PNC reverted to a pro-capitalist market economy to replace its failed “cooperative socialism” programme. How does today’s PNC in APNU differ from its past? Guyana’s current Ambassador to Kuwait Dr Odeen Ishmael in the Guyana Journal of October 2007 titled “The rush towards privatization” details the changeover to privatization under the PNC. It provides much information for evaluation and contemplation. Even as Ambassador Ishmael analysed why President Hoyte “had sharply condemned external pressures on the PNC government to privatize more than 40 state-owned companies”, in 1985 it is not obvious why the PNC failed to sell them to Guyanese including PNC supporters to their benefit. Were Guyanese wiser about the PNC or they could not afford buying? Did the PNC leader finally realize the PNC’s inabilities to successfully manage private businesses, inclusive of nurturing those skills among his base supporters? Few have publicly clarified why the PNC leader became so radically reformed in aggressively courting his Indo Guyanese countrymen. While the current PPP/C government has actively facilitated private business ventures among the Afro Guyanese grassroots, what prevents them from stepping on the gas pedal? Historically PPP/C supporters slowly built themselves up by their own savings and not by government handouts. Could the PPP/C privatise those woefully failing operations,
allowing Guyanese to become owners - manage and build their own dreams? Privatizing prisons (like in the US) with bids from international investors will not only do wonders, but be most economically lucrative. Afro Guyanese flock to fill Guyanese jails, and they also currently manage its daily affairs. Who is best equipped to make it a business venture? There are persons with the requisite skills that are up for grabs? Similarly all cemeteries, mashramani and of course garbage pickup and disposal will remove these responsibilities from rampant non-responsive or incompetent management. They will be less a burden on the national treasury. Can better business practices be so stimulated? If perchance a predominant Afro Guyanese company ventures into running the prisons will they be more successful in dissuading kith and kin from going back to jail repeatedly? Relocating the Camp street prison to the scenic Linden highway will permit prisoners to work on their own kitchen gardens. A new school, park, playground or pool or a combination thereof will be a fitting replacement for the Camp Street area. Why Guyanese today constantly witness the PNC/ APNU/WPA and their AFC ally illegally chopping the budget and blocking Guyana’s development is for them to justify or explain. But
it’s no secret that by closing the sugar industry they aim to destroy the PPP/C base. Kind of pulling things down to a lower level of impoverished commonality. Of course with Dr Walter Rodney’s multiracial agenda brutally eliminated, a new emphasis on race-based entitlement has become singularly substituted for “equality” in power sharing no less presumptive of the other’s servitude. How different will Guyana become when its implementation refreshes subsidized dependency not difficult to see, but only made worse when it vitiates and prejudices all by race, despite skills and potential to excel? In fact, power-sharing based on race will continue and enhance the current dependency syndrome. No race or culture can be expected to complete another by automatic agreement. But Federalism does cater and allows each to instead compliment, not complete the other, both benefitting from their unleashed potential, assuredly without dependency or hindrance in the same country. Under current powersharing advocacy, what is brought to the table does not seem to matter at all or right now. Rather what is demanded, therefore, automatically owed by all Guyanese, has becomes paramount to be shared with equal power if it was real. Now that the usual suspects are (Continued on page 8)
DEAR EDITOR, I commend Roy Paul for starting the conversation about racism in our society in his letter titled “We can treat one another with respect if we eliminate this scourge” (KN, April 13, 2014). Mr. Paul makes some valid points regarding the causes and extent of the metastasis of race in our society. But I think we need to start the conversation from the beginning. Hopefully, enough brave souls will contribute to this topic, for it is most responsible for the tragic state of our society and needs to be discussed. Guyana has always been a country of ethnic and racial conflict. Ethnic and tribal conflict existed among Amerindian tribes before the Europeans arrived. But the Europeans brought large scale ethno-racial dehumanization, suppression, oppression and racial domination to Guyana. We had the indigenous slavery that almost wiped out the Amerindian peoples from Guyana. Then we had African slavery, one of the most depraved periods of human bondage. Beyond the EuropeanAfrican enslavement context, there were tragic sub-layers of racialism and slavery among slaves, Africans, creoles, mixed race and freed slaves. Some freed Africans, creoles and mixed races owned slaves in the colonies, further deepening the racial scars. Europeans used tribalism and class (house vs.
field slaves) to keep slave populations divided and easy to control. At every turn, the Europeans played the racial superiority endgame using race, colour and ethnicity. For instance, Amerindians were hired by Europeans to hunt African runaways. The European intent was to convey to Amerindians that they held a higher perch in the pecking order to the African. As usual, there were Africans and Amerindians willing to assist the Europeans in achieving this agenda. When slavery ended and Emancipation arrived in 1838, freed Africans demanded higher wages as freed men and also rejected the sharecropping system offered by the Europeans (probably a bad idea in retrospect). The Europeans resorted to indentured labour. African resentment was
only natural. Not only was the European tactic economically crippling, it was demographically damaging to Africans already faced with population decline (the British Caribbean slave population declined from 775,000 to 665,000 between 1807 and 1834). Europeans fanned fear and distrust among these non-European communities to keep the indentured labour tied to the plantation. Indentured servants came with their own ethnic, caste, class, religious and racial prejudices. Add the plague of illiteracy and lack of education among the non-European groups along with a system of economic dependency controlled by European business interests and it was evident how the sheer struggle for survival along with the already embedded (Continued on page 8)
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 17, 2014
NICIL denies knowledge of Ed Rodney CoI to Ahmad GuySuCo land for house lots begin Tuesday ...says agreement provides for shopping mall following wood processing plant The National Industrial and Commercial Investments Ltd. (NICIL) has denied any knowledge that the portion of Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) land sold to New York-based Guyanese Edul Ahmad is being converted into house lots. The foreign-based businessman, who is said to be a close affiliate of former President Bharrat Jagdeo, bought over 16-acres of prime land from the local sugar company. According to the Agreement of Sale, his company, South American Wood Inc. is supposed to construct a wood processing facility, which is supposed to create numerous jobs for locals. However, it has been reported that Ahmad stands to make profits of over $600M when he converts the property for which he paid a mere $80M, to a housing scheme, inclusive of a shopping mall, full gas and service station and facilities to house two banks. NICIL in a press release, yesterday, claims that it acted as an agent when the transaction was done between Ahmad and GuySuCo and according to the agreement, the land at
Edul Ahmad
Winston Brassington
Plantation Groenveldt on the West Coast of Demerara could be converted to a shopping mall once the wood processing plant is the first structure on the property. NICIL said that GuySuCo entered into a Restrictive Covenant as set out in the terms and conditions of the sale, published in the Vesting Order, effecting the transfer of title, that “the property shall not be used for any other purpose other than for the construction and operation of a wood processing facility with the option of future development in manufacturing, industrial and commercial activities including the construction and operation of a shopping mall, providing that the
construction of the wood processing facility is commenced first” and that construction of the wood processing facility commences within one year of the agreement. NICIL has defended the selling price; that GuySuCo’s land was subjected to two prior bids when in 2003, the highest valid bid amounted to $30M and in 2004, no bids were received for the property. This, the privatization agency said, caused the land to be sold, “at a price comparable with valuations established for GuySuCo land on the East Coast Demerara at $5M per acre.” While NICIL claims ignorance of the matter, it says that neither the government nor GuySuCo, “has any knowledge of any change of the agreement,” which was entered into with Ahmad’s wood processing company. The opposition is
however, bent on asking hard questions relating to this transaction and is also demanding that the entire transaction be reviewed. The opposition is convinced that all may not be as it seems since state property sold to create jobs and then being converted to a housing scheme means that the owner is profiteering. The GuySuCo property was sold to Ahmad in 2008 and reports are that the project, Leonora Mall and Hollywood Garden, is being managed by Leonora Projects which is owned by one Shareef and Ahmad. NICIL, a stateprivatisation arm of the government, is however no stranger to criticism; ending up in the spotlight for what many have referred to as being involved in “tainted” transactions where state resources were sold or privatized under the tenure of Winston Brassington. Most notable is the sale of the Sanata Complex for “a next to nothing” price to best friend of Bharrat Jagdeo, Dr. Ranjisingh ‘Bobby’ Ramroop. Ahmad is also no stranger to negative publicity. He was charged by US Federal authorities for his involvement in a massive fraud scheme and in 2012, he entered a plea deal with US agents, and was found guilty of knowingly and intentionally conspiring to defraud several lending institutes over a 15-year period.
The Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry is still scheduled to begin next Tuesday. Kaieteur News was told that the secretariat was still dispatching letters to potential “witnesses”. Recently the secretariat announced that it was continuing to accept statements from persons who are still interested in testifying at the hearings of the Commission. The Secretariat had earlier set March 26, last as the deadline for the submission of statements and other materials pertaining to the commission. Because of the influx of statements, Attorney for the Commission, Latchmie Rahamat, said that they had to extend it. That period for submissions of statements had been extended indefinitely to facilitate the participation of all interested parties; including those from remote domestic areas and overseas. Kaieteur News was told that enquiries may be made of and statements delivered to the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry, at Lot 1 Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown. At a press conference recently, President Donald Ramotar, said that the commission will not come cheap. “I don’t have the figures at my fingertips…but I know it’s not cheap,” the Head of State told the media when asked about how much government will be spending. On Monday, the r e p o r t e d c o s t of the commission was $112 million. He had said that once Government decided to “go down that road of having the inquiry”, it knew for a fact that the money would be well spent. Ramotar explained that contrary to reports about
something being sinister in the holding of the inquiry, his government is fulfilling the wishes of Rodney’s wife, Patricia. “This process started and it was not initiated by me, but by a request by the family, particularly his wife, Patricia Rodney”, Ramotar said. He said that the Terms of Reference which some parties have been protesting against were crafted by Rodney’s family and advisors, along with some technical help from government. Ramotar stressed that it was Rodney’s wife who made the comment about not wanting it to be political. “We created all the conditions that no one will be criminally prosecuted and people could come forward and speak what they know,” the President said. He made the point of persons trying to put a spin on it to imply that there’s something sinister, which he dismissed. Since the President’s press conference both the Working People’s Alliance and A Partnership for National Unity have declined their participation in the inquiry. Chairman for the Commission Sir Richard Cheltenham (QC) had disclosed that the commission would sit for an initial nine days, before taking a break for about two weeks and resuming. Cheltenham had noted that the circumstances surrounding Rodney’s death weren’t fairly investigated and made known to the world, so it’s an unresolved issue for his family. “There has been no clear answer from any investigation to determine this,” the Chairman said. Cheltenham also said that they intend to “dig deeply” in relation to the facts and come to a conclusion as to who was responsible and why it was done. He said that to get an answer would be good, especially for the family, which is mainly the purpose for the inquiry.
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
NAREI reaps first batch of English potatoes - Making strides in diversification programme
Minister of Agriculture Dr. Leslie Ramsammy looks on as Mr. Fredricks harvests the English potatoes The National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) have been successful in producing its first batch of English potatoes, as part of its agriculture diversification programme. This is according to Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Minister of Agriculture in a press statement yesterday. The Minister on Tuesday witnessed the harvesting of the first batch of potatoes at NAREI’s nursery demonstration plot located at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. The demonstration plots of potatoes were reaped on day 42 by Dr. Ramsammy and one of the lead researchers of the institute David Fredricks. According to the release, NAREI in keeping with its plan to diversify the agriculture sector embarked on the planting of a number of non-traditional crops. To facilitate the programme, researchers have created several demonstration plots at NAREI. Among the nontraditional crops currently grown are garlic, carrot, turmeric, ginger and chick peas. “This is a good day for us in Agriculture. Gone are the days when we import such produce when in fact we have enough land space, experienced and qualified persons and the will-power to
ensure that such things become a reality” Dr. Ramsammy said. While underscoring the importance of agriculture to Guyana, the Minister noted that NAREI will continue to work on such projects with the aim of ensuring the country’s import bill is significantly reduced. “Such interventions by Government is to ensure that we not only reduce our import bill but also increase our export Bill…I am proud of my dedicated staff at NAREI and encourage them to continue the good work the institute has already commenced and this will go a far way,” Dr. Ramsammy said. Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer, NAREI, Dr. Oudho Homenauth reiterated his agency’s commitment to ensuring that non-traditional varieties of crops which are adaptable to soil type and climatic conditions on the coast are introduced. Such initiatives were embarked upon by farmers in Regions Seven and Eight; however a number of factors including the high cost to transport the commodities brought an end to the venture. While this has been a success for NAREI, such a venture didn’t come easily. This is according to Dr. Homenauth, who related that researchers encountered a number of difficulties in the
initial phase such as soil type, and pest attack. “During extensive research we found that growing the potatoes under shaded cultivation instead of in the open has also helped in this regard….To date, we have mastered our soil type and managed pest attack to a significant level” the CEO said. While NAREI has been progressing well with respect to research, Dr. Homenauth noted that much more can be done. One challenge includes access to state-of-art planting materials, which will be more feasible. This is currently being procured through assistance from the InterAmerican Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). The research aspect of the agency is being manned by 23 researchers. The aim of NAREI is to reduce imports by 50 percent within the next year. As such, the agency is open to working with farmers countrywide and to lend assistance through expertise sharing where necessary, the release said. It was noted that a decade ago crops such as broccoli and cauliflower which were known to have special dietary factors, were imported and only made available in supermarkets. However, today such crops are grown locally in Guyana and are accessible to all.
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Tain Corentyne murder accused guilty, gets 20 years each The two accused in the Tain Corentyne murder trial have been found guilty of murder and sentenced to 20 years in jail, each. The two accused, Joshua Persaud, called ‘Sunny Boy’ and ‘Bun Boy’, 25, of Bloomfield, and Raphael Rene Morrison, called “Red Head”, 24, of Auchlyne Estate, Corentyne, Berbice were on trial for the murder of Marlon Andrew Ramcharan on June 3, 2013. The killing occurred along a street in Block C Tain, New Housing area. The men were on trial before Justice Diana Insanally and a mixed jury in the Berbice High Court. Justice Diana Insanally had taken all morning to sum up the evidence to the mixed jury. She had told them if they agree with anything that both the prosecution and the defence said in both their addresses, then they may use them in their deliberations. The jury then deliberated for over two hours before returning to the court for further directions. They wanted further direction about the two star witnesses and the question of identity at the scene of the crime. After giving further directions, the Jury again retired and returned within 10 minutes with their unanimous verdict of guilty of murder on both occasions. Attorney at Law Mursalene Bacchus, in his plea of mitigation addressed the issue of Persaud’s age and address. He said that the man is a mason by profession who was never convicted before of any offence. He stated that there is still room in Persaud’s life to make a positive contribution to society. Bacchus in his plea for Morrison also mentioned his client’s age and address, and noted that he is not married with any kids. He was never convicted. He added that Morrison also has room to make a meaningful contribution to society. On Tuesday both the defence led by Attorney at
Joshua Persaud and Rennie Morison
Marlon Ramcharan Law Mursalene Bacchus and the Prosecution which is being conducted by Attorney at Law Renita Singh; presented their closing arguments. This was after Justice Insanally had overruled the defence no case submissions and called on them to lead a defence. Earlier both accused Joshua Persaud and Raphael Morrison had made unsworn statements from the dock citing their innocence. During the trial, both star witnesses (eye witnesses) Nicolas Beharry and Rakesh Jaikarran had given their evidence in chief. The prosecution had also called Dr. Nehaul Singh who performed the Post Mortem examination which had revealed that the cause of death was due to shock and hemorrhage resulting from multiple incised wounds.
During the trial the Prosecution called a number of witnesses, including Detective Assistant Superintendent of Police Gary Mc Alister who testified to visiting the scene and taking a statement from Morrison; Detective Constables Emmanuel Rajnauth and Andel Doris who testified to the parts they played during the investigations. Police Constable Nkofi Austin arrested Joshua Persaud at Black Bush Polder. Two other witnesses also took the stand including the father of the deceased, Surendra Ramcharan, who identified the body and Molchan Raghubir who testified that on the night in question, Persaud went by his house with Morrison and demanded a cutlass from him which he subsequently gave to him. The court had also visited the scene of the crime at Tain on the request of the defence. Magistrate Fabio Azore and Detective Corporal Primus Sam were also called to testify. Justice Insanally said that the Human Rights aspect stated that when youths are involved in crime they are not to be punished for their entire life. She then sentenced them both to 20 years in jail. The accused showed no emotion when the verdict was passed. However, the family of the deceased was emotional.
Arresting officer testifies in Mahaicony murder trial Defence Counsel, Jailall Kissoon, began his cross examination of another police witness in the trial of Satnarine Jaikaran called Sato, and his nephews, Neville and Randy Crawford. They are facing the court for murder. The three men are on trial for the murder of their relative, Maxwell Rendell Crawford, called ‘Bacchus George,’ whom they reportedly chopped and beat to death during “a family feud,” on January
29, 2010, at Little Abary, M a h a i c o n y, E a s t C o a s t Demerara. A t t o r n e y s - a t - L a w, Jailall Kissoon, Satyesh Kissoon and Renee Kissoon are representing the trio, while Prosecutor, Dhanika Singh is representing the State. The matter is before Georgetown Supreme Court Judge, William Ramlal and a mixed 12- member jury. On Tuesday, Detective Corporal, Nirvan Jaiprashad testified that on
January 29, 2010, about 7:30 pm, he visited the scene of the crime. The witness told the court that he saw the body of the victim, lying at the side of the road. The policeman recalled that he also met with the reputed wife of the deceased, a woman whom he identified as ‘Valerie,’ a n d M r. J a i k a r a n , t h e number one accused. Jaiprashad said that he cautioned and arrested the number one accused, who
told him that Crawford had attacked and chopped him first, and he had to defend himself. He said that both the accused and the dead man’s reputed wife showed him wounds they had sustained about their body owing to the altercation, after which he escorted them to the hospital. However, under cross examination, the witness said that while at the hospital, the woman sought medical attention, but he prevented the
accused from doing so at that time. Jaiprashad said that the accused remained in custody for a few hours before he was taken for medical attention. He claimed that he subsequently received information, which implicated the number two and three accused, (Neville and Randy Crawford), whom he later arrested. However, when asked about the nature of the information, the witness said that he could not recall
what the information was. Ye s t e r d a y, t h e d e f e n c e concluded their cross examination of Jaiprashad. On Monday, the first police witness was called to the stand. Detective Sergeant, Denaise Adams told the court that he was the first policeman to visit the scene of the crime. Adams claimed that he summoned other investigators, who gathered samples of evidential nature from the scene.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 17, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
Diaspora pays too much to send remittances DEAR EDITOR, It is widely known that the Guyana diaspora in North America, the United Kingdom, the Caribbean and other parts of the world, contribute significantly to the economy in their homeland, since constant remittances are sent to their relatives who live in the Co-operative Republic, It is not a secret that the diaspora plays an important role in the country’s economy, since it gets a large slice of funds from remittances sent by relatives abroad, but it costs them far too much. In other words a relatively large portion is being taken out in the transfer process, so much so that the World Bank has expressed concern about the exorbitant cost of sending remittances to the Caribbean. The World Bank in a
statement expressed grave concern stating that the exercise is forcing migrant workers to pay as much as $50 to send $200 to support their families. The release added that $200 is a significant amount for migrants to send to their families. “There was little price transparency and no global effort to address this problem until the World Bank helped from a coalition to monitor the process and create “one stop shop” information,” the statement added. “The high cost of transferring remittances internationally has typically been caused by a combination of obstacles in each local market, both in sending and receiving countries,” the World Bank statement noted and referred to the lack of transparency
protection, legal and regulatory obstacles, a lack of payment system infrastructures and access to payment system; a weak market environment without a proper competition and weak risk management and governance practices. Western Union, Money Gram and other agencies do brisk business from the Caribbean diaspora. Besides financial remittances, the diaspora via dozens of organizations in various states in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and the UK, play an important role in sending crates, barrels laden with books, equipment and other forms of assistance to schools, church groups and other organizations. This is more evident times of national disaster. Oscar Ramjeet
Our ancestors came with... From page 5 prejudices would lead to the ethno-racial volcano Guyana is today. Emancipation in 1838 did not alleviate this susceptibility to racism and ethnic cleavage for Emancipation was followed by another 79 years of Indentureship which was followed by another 49 years of colonialism. Guyana was always doomed to this fate, and even if the Europeans did not fuel this catastrophic alchemy by dividing and destroying, propagandizing and indoctrinating, dominating
and manipulating, putting such massive numbers of impoverished, prejudiced and illiterate souls in a small space (Guyana coast) was bound to create the predicament we were saddled with. One hundred and twentyeight years from the end of slavery to Independence filled with mistrust, bitterness, poverty, struggle, illiteracy, survivalist existence and parochialism was continued in the 48 years since Independence. What is very clear is that we have not changed course. This country has absolutely
done the same thing for all those years. It has maintained the same script created by the long-gone Europeans. That script has brought untold suffering and a society sinking in the quicksand of separatism. Guyana is still a slave and indentured plantation, well, not for all, but for majority of this country. Those busy seeking or celebrating ethnoracial domination, security and command cannot see the cage they are in; the same cage left by the European some 48 years ago. M. Maxwell
Prisons, cemeteries, garbage and mashramani should... From page 5 correctly being pursued for reparations, would two (power sharing and reparations) rights make it wrong or right at the same time? The taxpayer-funded
Caricom was automatically dispatched by foregone conclusion to seek justice by reparations based on historic wrongs against one race. It would also require the same sensitive public reassurances of later sharing the proceeds due to historic entitlements. The going rate of exchange is “equality” to the patrimony, just in case. The precedent became
established when the PNC seized the Indian Immigration fund , claiming it was common national patrimony, and built a single Cultural Centre in the heart of its Georgetown stronghold. So the PPP wisely also supported the takeover. Let the stones rain on the Jagans’ jumbies if in death they have not now become exonerated. Sultan Mohamed
The Pensioners’ Subsidy is not... From page 4 service charges that surpass the Pensioners’ Subsidy. For more information on the subsidy, pensioners can contact GWI’s Customer Services Call Centre on 227-8701/ 03/04; email GWI’s Public Relations Department: pro@gwi.gy, send a message
via Blackberry Messenger: 296185F9 or via Social Media a t w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / everydropcountsgy. Information is also available at www.gwiguyana.com Timothy Austin Public Relations Officer Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI)
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
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WILL THERE BE TELEVISION COVERAGE OF THE 2014 FIFA WORLD CUP? The vast majority of Guyanese do not have access to cable television. Either the service is not available in their area or the cost is beyond their means. As such, the vast majority of Guyanese depend on television in order to view what is taking place in the world. This includes international sporting events which have a large following in Guyana. This year, just as it was two years ago, cricket aficionados were deprived the opportunity to see the ICC T 20 World Cup on television. Coverage was restricted to cable. This was a real tragedy for which very little has been said. It is now uncertain whether local cricket fans will be able to follow, on television, the Caribbean Premier League which commences soon. It would be terribly ironic that these fans are able to view on television the Indian Premier League (IPL), presently taking place, but are deprived of the same opportunity to see the Caribbean Premier League which is to be played in their
backyard. Cable companies have exclusive broadcast rights to the CPL in the Caribbean. It is not clear if they are going to be prepared to allow television stations to buy or procure such rights for broadcast on public television. But even if those rights can be secured, and it is doubtful they can, there is now a greater hurdle to be overcome: whether local television stations are going to have the resources to bring the CPL coverage if they manage to secure broadcast rights. It is extremely costly to secure certain rights. In the past, the government had to come to rescue of the stateowned NCN so as to allow it to be able to afford to buy the broadcast rights to major sporting events. While in the past NCN was able to secure broadcast rights to these events, the projected revenues from advertisements were never able to cover these costs and therefore the government often had to jump in so as to offset the deficits.
That is not likely to happen now that there is great uncertainty as to whether parliament will approve of funding for NCN. If there is no subsidy or subvention for NCN, then it would seem a very daunting challenge for that company to be able to afford to broadcast rights to the many major sporting events that are forthcoming for the remainder of this year. Amongst the broadcasts that are now threatened if the subsidy or subvention that the government provides to NCN is the upcoming FIFA World Cup which is being hosted in Brazil between June and July of this year; and the final of the UEFA Champions League which is slated for May 24. One week earlier, the FA Cup Final will be held in Wembley and is often shown on state-owned television. It would be terrible if ordinary Guyanese unable to afford cable television are to be denied the opportunity to see the world greatest football tournament, the FIFA World Cup. This would be an untold tragedy and a great loss for the ordinary fans who
are really the persons that support local football and other sporting events. Cricket fans will equally be worried. New Zealand tours the West Indies this summer and a tour by Bangladesh will follow. Towards the end of the year, the West Indies go to South Africa to play three Tests and five one day internationals. Will local cricket fans be able to see any of these matches on television? This is not likely to happen unless the government jumps in to subsidize the coverage because one there is no way that NCN can afford the rights without government support.
Local advertisers are not going to find it feasible to cover the cost of these rights. Without state subsidies Test cricket may never again be seen on television nor for that matter the fifty over tournaments. With cable companies acquiring exclusive rights for T20 what this means is that local cricket fans may never again be able to see their West Indian stars on television. The hopes of cricket fans therefore rest on the government being able to provide the necessary subsidy to ensure that NCN is able to buy rights to broadcast the major sporting
events which are due to take place over the next few months. Those who wish to deprive NCN of public funds are not helping the vast majority of citizens of Guyana by so doing. Those who benefit the most when NCN cannot afford or acquire rights to broadcast major sporting events are the cable companies. Their customer base grows and they make money while the poor man is left stranded.
AG appeals High Court ruling against Sooba ...warns City Hall against any move to remove Town Clerk
Dem boys seh...
Brazzy playing stupid again Every time a big one dead under suspicious circumstances people does always run to see if he got insurance. When dem bad men did kidnap that big businessman and then dem cut off he head, people find out that just a few months earlier, he tek out a big insurance. Some people start fuh think bout people killing de man fuh de insurance money. De other day some people kidnap another big businessman. Of course, de police find de businessman dead. Now dem boys checking fuh see if he had a big insurance policy. Dem want to see if is people close to he responsible because once people got big insurance is like people can’t wait to claim. Dem see how Brazzy close to Hand in Hand Insurance. He buy shares fuh he buddy. Dem boys want to know if he tek out insurance fuh he buddy and fuh heself. A smart man like he would hide de policy. In fact, dem boys seh that he does walk wid it in he briefcase every day because he don’t want he family see how much he insure heself for. Dem boys seh that he might got to surrender that same policy fuh pay Ed Ah Mad. De GuySuco land wha Ah Mad get fuh next to nutten at Leonora was to build a
wood processing factory. But Ed Ah Mad hold on pun de land fuh a while then decide that he gun sell it out as house lots and mek big big profit. Dem Boys hear through the grape vine that this was arranged with the rat and the fat crook Brazzy. Now the story buss out he now claiming that he ain’t know bout no housing scheme. But dem boys know different. He done collect already and he know that he can’t tek back de land. He claim that he didn’t know bout de Sanata complex although he sell it fuh next to nutten. That is how some people begin to get real money. Two of dem draw down from Ed Ah Mad even before de land sell. De same two done know bout de plan to sell de land fuh house lots and fuh mek a big profit. Hap New done announce that somebody got to explain. But dem boys know that crooks don’t explain nutten. Brazzy still to explain who putting money in de Marriott and although dem boys know he keeping he mouth and he hole shut. He trying de same thing wid Ed Ah Mad land-pretend that he ain’t know and then keep he mouth shut. Talk half and watch how Brazzy and Donald aint gon do nutten bout dis.
Town Clerk (Ag) Carol Sooba Attorney General Anil Nandlall Attorney General Anil Nandlall yesterday filed legal documents in the Court of Appeal challenging the ruling of Chief Justice (CJ) Ian Chang against the government-appointment of Town Clerk (TC) Carol Sooba. The AG is appealing the case on the grounds that the CJ would have erred in his ruling and further, made a judgment, “against the weight of the evidence.” The AG is appealing on behalf of the Local Government Ministry, while Mr. Royston King stands as the respondent. The AG is asking the
Mr. Royston King Appeal Court to set aside the order made by the CJ on December 13, 2013, which requested the Local Government Minister to explain the appointment of Carol Sooba as Town Clerk.
The Attorney General says that the plaintiff is dissatisfied with the CJ’s ruling in its entirety. He said that the CJ “erred and misguided himself in law” when he ruled that the Minister had no power to appoint Sooba as Georgetown’s Town Clerk under the Municipal and (Continued on page 30)
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Thursday April 17, 2014
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Silence at dawn: Death of a country It would take a book length manuscript to examine the nature of politics in the countries (192) that make up the United Nations membership. In many of those states, the government does not accept citizens protesting on any issue at all much less in the area of politics. Five such countries come to mind – North Korea, Saudia Arabia, China, Cuba and Iran. Of these five, the extreme, Kafkaesque case is North Korea. The least said about North Korea, the better. In the other four, there are protests, though such demonstrations in Cuba hardly get reported in the world. In many other countries, the government does not tolerate dissent but will not be as brutal on
agitation against small scale violations as they would in the area of politics. Guyana is the ironic example in this group. The government does not prevent demonstrations against the political system or anything else yet no one protests against any kind of violation, whether political, social, cultural, etc. The most sickening abuse by state or police or business or civil society can take place in Guyana and it is as if this land is a zombie graveyard – the abuses move no one. It would take books and books to enumerate the mountains of wrongs that go on daily in this society and they all pass unnoticed. Everyday, you jump from
your breakfast chair, spilling your coffee because you say at last here is one that the Guyanese people will not tolerate. But all you did in that act of stupidity is burn yourself with your coffee. When I read a letter naming one of the richest families in this country of doing a nasty thing to its employees, I thought we had one here to galvanize public opinion. This family owns a wharf where the annual transactions must be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. In the family retail store, employees have to buy their own toilet paper and hand washing liquid for use in the store washrooms. After that letter, I did a
column on this nightmare. But that was it; a single letterwriter and a single columnist – no other voice, no other pen. Even in Cuba, Saudi Arabia and Iran, there would have been more public expressions of this outrageous mistreatment of poor employees by multibillionaire people. About ten years ago, I met one of the members of this billionaire family. He told me he was a working class man. Of course he was disrespecting me but you can’t force people to respect you. I did tell him that he was talking nonsense. So last week I was passing by the store and I saw him. I said with light seriousness, “How is the rich man?” He enquired with a smile, “You have something against rich people?” I said no. There was no time to tell him I have everything against rich people when they can compel their employees to pay for the toilet paper the employers must provide for the washrooms. There is no other country in the world that would remain
silent on the constant mistakes made at the only State-owned hospital that result in disfigurements and deaths. It was no joking matter but I laughed when I was discussing a story with my wife over the weekend about the Georgetown Public Hospital in this newspaper last Friday. A policeman told the Kaieteur News, that he quickly bolted out of the hospital (that is what made me laugh) when they told him they had to remove his ankle for a simple bullet wound in the upper right thigh. Suspecting that they had made a mistake, he went straight into a private hospital. His mother told this newspaper on Tuesday that the limb was further damaged by the Georgetown Public Hospital after admittance. Read this policeman’s plight and you see the medical nightmare poor people have to endure at the Georgetown Public Hospital. To date no one has sued this hospital and no one calls for an investigation into this. You are poor, you fall sick, you
Frederick Kissoon enter the Georgetown Hospital, you die, and your relatives’ questions are met with abuse. A school expels small kids in the middle of the term for mere possession of a cell phone. And Guyana accepts this trauma. From reading my columns you would know one of my close friends is Leonard Craig who took Digicel before the court of the Public Utilities Commission as reported in this newspaper last week. Leonard and I are planning to take over the Guyana Consumers Association and bring it back to life. Consumers are treated like dogs in this country and there is no protest. Why is Guyana so dead?
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Granger politicking with security and citizens’ rights - Rohee
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) through its General Secretary Clement Rohee has taken offence over recent statements made by Leader of the Opposition David Granger that the country is faced with a public security crisis where “narco trafficking is the engine of growth that is driving the economy.” In a recent press conference Rohee said his party stands fully behind President Donald Ramotar, who had previously said that Granger and the Opposition should apologize to the people of Guyana “for those outrageous statements which are an attack on all the hard working people of Guyana who by virtue of hard work and investment, have driven the economy forward.” Rohee said that Granger’s statements are an attack on all those persons who are contributing legitimately to the collective “wealth of our nation.”
The PPP is of the view that Granger should provide evidence of those involved in narco-trafficking as well as the names of those whose ‘narcomoney’ is being used to drive the Guyana economy. “It is clear to all that the Opposition Leader is using the issue of narco trafficking as a smokescreen to detract attention from the Budget which has attracted the attention of a broad cross section of the Guyanese people” said Rohee. He cited from United Nations 2014 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (INCSR) on Guyana which reads “As a matter of policy, the Government of Guyana does not encourage or facilitate the illicit production or distribution of narcotics or psychotropic drugs or other controlled substances, or the laundering of proceeds from illegal drugs transactions.” He also referred to the International Monetary Fund
(IMF) report which states that “real economic activity expanded by 4.8 percent in 2012 on the back of broad based growth in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, construction and other services... the macroeconomic outlook is generally positive for 2013 and the medium term growth is projected at 4.8 in 2013 continuing the broadbased robust expansion in economic activity.” According to Rohee, these “are strong and powerful statements emanating from reputable international bodies which speaks to the enormous strides the country has made both in terms of economic growth and in the fight against narco trafficking.” The General Secretary said that Granger “is only
Local malaria fight gets financial injection from Global Fund Guyana’s malaria fight has been boosted by a US$1.2 million Global Fund grant, which according to the Ministry of Health’s Vector Control Director, Dr. Reyaud Rahman, will be utilized over the next three years. And according to Dr. Rahman, although the funding may appear to be sizeable, “for the amount of work we have to do, it is really not…” In fact the Vector Control Director said that the additional injection was perhaps in response to his continued efforts to solicit support from Global Fund. “I have been writing them constantly telling them about our constraints and everything else and to some extent I think that they actually listened. “I think they have recognized our hard work over the past year and they have seen we are really committed and that we are managing (our programme) properly,” said Dr. Rahman. The funding made available to Guyana comes at a time when Global Fund is gearing to put in place a new funding model to which countries will have to embrace in order to secure continued support. Global Fund has over the years been lending substantial financial aid to combat the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Tuberculosis and malaria in countries across the world. Moreover, Global Fund recently spearheaded a meeting in Jamaica to which representatives of aidseeking countries were
Vector Control Director, Dr. Reyaud Rahman invited to attend. Dr. Rahman was among those who attended on Guyana’s behalf. “They wanted to teach us, and show us their new funding model,” said Dr. Rahman of the recent meeting. At that very meeting the Vector Control Director said that Global Fund officials announced that Guyana would be entitled to apply for a further US$1.3 million which will translate to Guyana being eligible for US$2.5 million over the next three years. But according to him gaining access to the additional funds will not merely be premised on “yes you can apply and that’s it.” In fact, he explained that a lengthy process will be required whereby “we need to pretty much write another proposal, in addition to the one we have, and they (Global Fund) are calling it a concept note but before we do all that we need to get
some other things done like costing our strategic plan.” “We need to get all stakeholders together and have meetings ahead of the Global Fund mission coming (here) in May or June and we need to get these things done as soon as possible, because this process may take as long as nine months to get done,” said Dr. Rahman as he insisted that Guyana is very much in need of additional funding “if we want to decrease malaria further.” Guyana last year recorded less than 30,000 cases of malaria cases and, according to Dr. Rahman, the aim of the local programme is to halve that amount, even as he noted that it is not expected that the process will be fast but it is hoped that the reduction will be continuous. Guyana’s fight against malaria, Dr. Rahman said, is currently not only in conformity with best practices but they are on target as recommended by World Health Organisation (WHO). In fact, Dr. Rahman only recently attended a WHO meeting which was convened in Panama that was designed to craft a strategy on the management and control for malaria for the next 10 years. The meeting which was described as intense by Dr. Rahman was attended by medical experts from throughout the world who were tasked with reviewing relevant documents with a view of ascertaining if they were practical for the various countries’ setting. “Some of (Continued on page 12)
General Secretary of the PPP Clement Rohee
Leader of APNU David Granger
playing politics with an issue of grave importance to the security and well-being of the citizens of this country who are getting increasingly tired of the antics and theatrical postures of the Opposition parties in Parliament.” However, Granger has publicly stated that his utterances were misconstrued. He made it pellucid that he did not make the statements that President Ramotar attributed to him. “On Tuesday I said that ‘the Public security crisis will not correct itself. Narcotrafficking is the engine of growth that is driving this country’s high rates of money laundering, gun
running, execution murders and armed robberies. Violent crime is scaring foreign investors, driving away the educated elite, undermining economic growth and impeding social development.”
The Opposition Leader said that he believes Ramotar was misinformed. “I never accused businessmen of being narcotraffickers or that they are responsible for bringing crime into the country.” Rohee has however, dismissed Granger’s explanation as “a backward step having been caught napping by the President’s statement... you say what you have to say and then when you are caught with your pants down he then seeks to retract it and makes a different statement all together. This was done with the sugar workers when they [APNU] said they will close down GuySuCo, so that seems to be a well established trait on the part of the administration.”
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Thursday April 17, 2014
Govt. has replaced discourse with partisan propaganda - Nagamootoo Alliance For Change (AFC) Executive Member, Moses Nagamootoo, has announced that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/ C) which has the minority in the National Assembly has unenthusiastically suppressed the work of that body. According to Nagamootoo, “This minority government has replaced rational discourse with partisan propaganda, and the worst that could happen is happening - the regime believes itself.” Nagamootoo who is a Member of Parliament, AFC Vice Chairman and Attorney at Law, explained that he has no hope that “this post-Jagan PPP Government would accept amendments or avoid electoral defeat. We have seen the contours of its arrogance emerging in almost all spheres of political behaviour.” Nagamootoo said, “The Executive’s refusal to assent to Bills approved by this National Assembly, the restoration of allocations cut in defiance of decisions of the National Assembly, party paramountcy over the state media and state corporations; refusal to establish a Public Procurement Commission or appoint a Chairman to the Integrity Commission, or fill vacancies on Judicial and Police Service Commissions as well as refusal to hold Local Government Elections
AFC Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo last held in 1994" are pellucid examples of their (PPP) political arrogance. The AFC executive added that “this PPP minority government has stultified this National Assembly, distorted the process of grassroots democracy, gifted out radio and cable spectrum to cronies and used the state media for partisan propaganda purposes.” Those who are critical of the government, according to Nagamootoo, are “attacked and vilified. Political opponents are gagged and banned from the state airwaves and newspapers. Growingly, libel suits are used as a weapon of political struggle and intimidation by frightened state operatives.” Nagamootoo said that while there has been growth
Local malaria fight... From page 11 the main things that came out of the meeting were the sustainability of the direction forward in terms of, if we should concentrate more on the distribution of longlasting bed nets; if we should do more in-door residual spraying and how we can advocate and get increased public awareness,” said the Vector Control Director. The meeting saw the participants examining the importance of microscopy and comparing its use to Rapid Diagnostic Testing (RDT) to diagnose malaria. And according to Dr. Rahman, “we can safely say that we, as a country (Guyana), were involved in the construction of a document which would give us direction for the next 10 years and we were integrally involved in that process.” At the meeting Dr. Rahman was appointed as a mediator representing the Caribbean Region, a capacity which saw him being among a group leading the discussion for the Caribbean
and monitoring the things that needed to be discussed. “We had to come up with a plan and then do a presentation at the end of the discussion…It was like heading the Caribbean aspect of the discussions,” said Dr. Rahman who disclosed that at the end of the meeting “it was clear that we (Guyana) are on target. His disclosure was in light of the fact that Guyana’s recently completed a fouryear Strategic Plan that has in place “99 per cent of the things we discussed at the meeting.” He reiterated that while Guyana is not required to make a great deal of changes to its existing programme, there is however, need for additional funds to be invested. “We are on stream with the technical aspect of things but we will have to beef up our activities throughout the Regions…we are doing the right things but we just need to start investing a bit more in malaria,” asserted Dr. Rahman.
in Guyana this growth is masked by joblessness, so while there is growth the reality is otherwise. According to the AFC executive allocations for “Education and Health declined as a percentage of budget; Education slumped from 15.7 percent in 2009 to 13.6 percent, and Health, from 9.9 percent to 8.5 percent in 2013; serious crime increased 11 percent in spite of more dollars for security; wages remain depressed. “Only five percent was paid to public servants from the $4.4 billion allocated for revision of wages and salaries, which we voted as a 13 percent increase; Real GDP in 2013 declined from the high 7percent between 1990 and 1997, and even from what it was in 2011.” He explained that remittances from workers and relatives in the diaspora reduced from “US$405 million in 2011 to US$328 million in 2013; Exchange rate is sliding from G$203 to US$1 in 2012 to G$205 in 2013, and already G$207 in 2014.” Nagamootoo said that the “overall balance of payment deficit stands at US$119.5 million; Current account deficit increased from US$366.7 million to US$425.3 million; Overall fiscal deficit of $27 billion in 2012 worsened to $29.1 billion last year and projected to grow in 2014 to $32.4 billion.” “We learned that there are three ways to get money: steal, beg or borrow. In Guyana, our prudent government has been doing all three. By restraining wages and pensions, we virtually steal from the workers and pensioners; we beg for grants; and we continue to borrow,” said Nagamootoo. Nagamootoo explained that Government has the capacity to redeem the nation’s self esteem and integrity but that can only be achieved if prudent fiscal management of Guyana’s limited resources is achieved. “We could rake in all revenue streams; we could demand a fair price for national assets like land, radio frequencies and mineral rights; we could combat corrupt practices that allow good monies to be squandered in poorly executed projects, or frittered away in private purses through bribery and graft, instead of brushing these under the table; we could cut down on sinecure employment for party faithful and plumb contracts for favourites as well as extravaganza, foreign trips with perks, waste and pork barrel projects,” said Nagamootoo.
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Albouystown residents feel betrayed by Top Cop - condemns hostility of police ranks
One of the police officers checks a motorcycle
Some of the police officers who got into a confrontation with residents of Curtis Street, after a hostile search The move by the recently appointed Top Cop, Seelall Persaud, to increase foot patrols in the Albouystown area, under the guise of improving safety within the community, appeared to have backfired. The residents are accusing the police of severe harassment. “Frightened” residents are now calling on Persaud to remove the officers, whose only motive seems to be to “terrorize members of the community.” The police move in Albouystown is being seen as a forced occupation of the community. In light of recent promises made by the Top Cop during his visit to the neighbourhood last week, residents now say that they feel betrayed. The Commissioner of Police made a promise to renew the relationship between residents of Albouystown and the Police Force with the launching of a community project. On Tuesday, officers were conducting a search at a house in Curtis Street while the occupants were out. Neighbours said that they had to shout repeatedly at the
ranks and advised them to not enter the home in the occupants’ absence. Their advice however, was met with hostility from the heavily armed police ranks. “Just the other day the Commissioner come in here and tell we how he got a set of things that he gonna do to help improve the community. We were happy to hear that. He wants us to feel safe and he wants us to work along with him. “But on Tuesday the police storm in here and point gun in people face asking for somebody that we don’t know about. Then they rush in this big yard here and they were kicking down the door. Everybody shouting at them telling them don’t kick down the door because nobody is home but they continued and stop when they feel like.” “The police asking fuh a different kind ah relationship with we but this prove that is all talk. You can’t get people fuh wuk along with you by terrorizing them. That is not de way to go.” A worried mother of two added, “I am used to this. The police treat us like if everybody in this area is a
pack of criminals. They say one thing and do something else. They come and pointing guns in people face and rushing in people place like they have no regard for us. How they expect us not to fear them when they behave like this?” When this publication made an attempt to ascertain from one of the officers on Tuesday last why that particular section of the area was being searched, he suggested that all queries be directed to the Public Relations Officer of the Guyana Police Force. Yesterday, the momentum seemed to increase. Some two dozen police ranks were patrolling the streets of Albouystown, some in groups of five. They targeted Callender, King Edward, Victoria and Cooper Streets. At the sight of the media, scores of residents rushed out to relate their frustration over the actions of the police. One female resident of Cooper Street said, “They deh up and down the street and as soon as they see you they stopping you. You go into a shop to buy groceries and when you come out they
want to see in your bag. I have never felt this scared. This is not protection it is harassment. We told them if they serious about solving crime they need to come at night but they don’t listen. There is a particular drug yard that we told them about but you think they got time to pay attention to that? Not at all.” “We resent their behaviour. The Commissioner, Seelall Persaud come here with his big public relations stunt but based on this we realize that he doesn’t mean well. It is as if this zone here is just full of criminals and they out to send us to jail. “How can they treat us like this and expect us to trust them or even feel safe? We thought this regular foot patrol would have been good for the community but the police behavior will only encourage us to turn against them.” An angry Father of eight also said, “Just imagine, they are frightening the children. They are searching children before they go to school and when they in the street they stripping them and searching them. Even big people they stripping and searching. This is harassment. Parents are angry. We begging them don’t let this turn out into a war.” Kaieteur News also observed police ranks carrying out searches on the
occupants of two houses on Curtis Street yesterday. An argument ensued when neighbours came out and objected to the hostile manner in which the searches were being conducted. They are calling on the Commissioner to reduce the number of ranks deployed in the area since it is creating the image of an occupied territory. Yesterday morning around 10am there were 12 ranks patrolling the area and an additional 14 joined two hours after. Police were armed with batons and firearms. Calls to the new ‘A’ Division Commander, Clifton Hicken were futile. The community project
which was launched last week, is called, “Impact Albouystown.” Leading the project is Mr. Persaud along with the Heavenly Light World Outreach Fellowship and the Albouystown Masjid. During a friendly meet and greet with residents of the area during the launching, Persaud had explained that there will be regular foot patrols by ranking officers as well as stop and search operations. This is being conducted to rid the community of unlawful firearms and illicit drugs. Domestic Violence and “youth gangs” are also areas that will be given much focus.
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Thursday April 17, 2014
Early screening could help combat Owner of Linden’s radio renal failure - Kidney Specialist station denies shut-down order - but there is no guarantee of prevention
Dr. Christian Rabbat chats with a young renal failure patient
It is advisable that people with a strong family history of kidney disease, as soon as possible, undergo thorough screening to ascertain their vulnerability; so that requisite action could be taken towards prevention. This assertion was on Monday made by Kidney Surgeon attached to the McMaster University in Ontario, Canada, Dr. Christian Rabbat, during an interview with this publication. But according to Dr. Rabbat, while screening may be recommended, the role of this process has not yet been proven as a means to prevent looming renal conditions. “When I say unproven (I mean) if I screen you early because you have a family history, I don’t know for sure that I will prevent things from happening down the road,” explained the kidney specialist who has been offering his skills to the Annandale, East Coast Demerara, Doobay Renal Centre. He however, noted that screening has the potential of shedding light on measures that can be implemented to possibly reduce the chances of developing renal failure. “If you do screen early you
can gain a little bit of knowledge, gain an understanding of what has to be done to try to prevent that outcome even though the benefit of screening is unproven...I think if you detect cases, at least you could try to do as much as you can to prevent them (patients) from getting worse,” said Dr. Rabbat. And while this is merely the opinion of Dr. Rabbat, he is convinced that “people with strong family history of kidney failure merit having their kidney functions checked.” In turning his attention to the noticeably young patients among those undergoing dialysis at the Doobay Centre, Dr. Rabbat observed that “patients here are much younger” compared to what he sees back home in Canada. He pointed out too that the definition of the exact kidney disease seen locally, is perhaps less precise since one of the disadvantages is that “we don’t have the luxury of following these people before they went to dialysis.” Dr. Rabbat disclosed though that oftentimes there are good reasons for the condition of people with high
blood pressure and diabetes to become worse overtime since the two diseases have been increasingly linked to renal failure. “These two diseases cause a lot of kidney failure (but) there are some others who we don’t understand why they came to dialysis and we might have done different things like kidney biopsies to determine if they could be treated in a different way,” revealed the kidney doctor. Moreover, the challenge in addressing renal failure, he noted, is connected to the need for a better understanding of what could be done, for young people with high blood pressure and diabetes, ahead of them being subjected to kidney failure. “We need to see what we could do before the kidneys get so bad that they need dialysis; which really is going to come down to applying certain medications and making sure that they are followed-up in clinic,” said Dr. Rabbat. He, in considering the existing work of the East Coast Demerara Renal Centre, noted that there is potential for a lot more to be done in the area of renal care if strategic partnerships are forged. With the establishment of such relations, he noted that the provision of comprehensive kidney care could become a reality at the Centre. He explained that while dialysis is one part of the management of people whose kidneys aren’t working, another aspect is that of putting in place measures that can cater to prevention. This, according to him, could see the development of clinics for persons who have kidney dysfunction before they need dialysis. “This is one of the possibilities, and there is an unanswered question because of the complexities that relate to transplantation...so care of people after they receive kidney transplant may be another area that is worth pursuing,” Dr. Rabbat said.
Region Ten’s lone privately owned Radio Station, 104.3 Power FM, was not ordered to shut-down operations by the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) contrary to reports in the Stabroek News. This is according to the proprietor of the radio station, Haslyn Graham, who believes that the inaccurate reporting could be damaging to the relationships shared between 104.3 Power FM Radio Station and GNBA and sponsors. Graham said that he recently received a letter from the authority reminding him to pay the $2.5M broadcasting licence fee. The spectrum fee of $116,000 has already been paid. His business became operational on October 19, 2013 and every effort is being made to meet the fee for the licence. The proprietor finds it distasteful that the daily newspaper would publish such a serious article without contacting him for a comment on the matter. “I must state that the publication of this news article without any effort
being made by the reporter to contact me, has taken me completely by surprise? The article has had the effect of causing unease in my business and advertising clients.” “The heading of the news item was ‘Region Ten’s lone private radio station to be pulled off air’…I am not aware that my radio station will be “shut down” within a week, neither am I aware of any
demand from me of the payment of $5M in Broadcast Licence Fees,” he said. According to Graham, he has been in constant contact with his attorneys in relation to his legal and other obligations being the owner of the radio station. “The advice that I have got so far has been confined to me and my family. With regards to paragraph four of the newspaper article, it was reported that the Regional Chairman of Region Ten, Mr. Sharma Solomon stated that, ‘...the Region has been up to date in its payment to the radio station,” Graham said. He vehemently refuted this claim. The Regional Administration owes 104.3 Power FM Radio Station an outstanding sum for programmes. Graham has been trying to collect the outstanding money months now but to no avail. Graham emphasized that his radio station is not a political one and his main aim is to have programmes that are within the ambit of the law and would be enjoyable to all of the people of Linden and its environs.
The Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) is inviting bids for the supply of wallaba poles. According to the stateowned company, the posts will be used for extension of its network and maintenance. GPL is looking for at least 10,000 poles to carry out its programmes in the next year or so. These include the 40-50 feet lengths which are critical to the new transmission lines being run along the coasts. However, the shorter 30 feet lengths, ideal for the normal power line poles, will remain the most critical.
The invitation for bids was yesterday published in the state-owned Guyana Chronicle. GPL has been battling a major shortage of wallaba poles for a number of years now. The poles were being supplied by mainly operators with forestry concessions. However, the operators have been demanding more monies, claiming that their costs have gone up with the poles available only in harderto-access areas. The demands for poles have grown in recent years as new housing schemes,
maintenance and a US$40M programme to run new transmission lines started. The Chinese contractor on the transmission line project immediately ran into problems as the longer lengths were not available. The shortage had delayed works on the new transmission lines. The company was forced to import the pine poles to meet demands. GPL had indicated that it was in talks with current suppliers. Works in a number of new housing schemes have also been facing delays.
Haslyn Graham, Proprietor of 104.3 Power FM Radio Station
GPL looking for 10,000 wallaba poles
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Thursday April 17, 2014
Make changes to the Women's groups stage 2014 budget - APNU protest - say issues being neglected
Several male supporters advocating for issues affecting women to be better dealt with Brigadier David Granger and his team distribute kites to the children of Buxton The main political opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is maintaining that changes to this year ’s budget, are necessary to improve the quality of life of ordinary citizens. This was touted by members of the political opposition, during a recent outreach in Region Six. According to a statement from the coalition, a public meeting was held at Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, last weekend. During the outreach, Leader of the Opposition, Brigadier David Granger and APNU’s Members of Parliament, Basil Williams, Volda Lawrence, Christopher Jones and Dr. Rishi Thakur addressed a gathering on the party’s main interest in the 2014 budget.
APNU members called for the introduction of programmes to relieve the plight of depressed communities and for the immediate introduction of a National Procurement Commission and on the Administration to make changes to the 2014 Budget for the public good. Brigadier Granger told the gathering that the 2014 Budget has failed to present a comprehensive financial plan for the development of the material resources and for the improvement of the quality of life for the ordinary people while APNU Member of Parliament, Basil Williams, a lawyer, said that the people of Guyana deserved a Budget that would lower the costs of living, stimulate growth and improve the quality of life for
the working man and woman. Other speakers called on the PPP/C Administration to reduce the Berbice River Bridge toll, to increase the old age pension and public assistance and increase public servants’ salaries. Calls were also made for the restructuring of GuySuCo so that it could become a viable company. APNU Member of Parliament, Christopher Jones highlighted the absence of a National Youth Policy. Jones said; “Young people in Guyana want good paying jobs, but sadly this Budget says nothing and offers nothing in the way of job creation.” On Sunday, the group joined Buxton residents to distribute kites to the children of the village.
Members of a number of women's groups gathered outside Parliament building yesterday, calling on politicians to put more effort into addressing issues affecting women. One Billion Rising, the Caribbean American Domestic Violence Awareness (CADVA), Red Thread, the Guyana Women Miners Organization (GWMO), Help and Shelter and the males from the Salvation Army were among those armed with placards, supporting the picket line. 'Let the women speak.' 'Women need justice! 'Too many murders,' some of the placards read. The demonstrators stood behind barricades on Avenue of the Republic, north of a group of Amerindians protesting the Budget cuts on the Amerindian Development Fund. Dr. Faith Harding representing The Quick Impact Project, told Kaieteur News that regardless of what anyone says, there are not enough programmes being set up to address issues concern-
ing women. “Guyana has troubling issues affecting our women that aren't being dealt with as they should. There is domestic violence, rape, and even suicide, because in this part of the world, many women are taking their own lives. It's worrying and these issues need to be addressed properly,” she posited. Harding added that the protest is not just geared towards the Government, but the large Opposition faction as well. She noted, “Such issues involve both sides. The Opposition can make a difference. They don't have to be in Government, they can raise funds. It is ridiculous that in Guyana, everything gets thrown at the Government. The Opposition can do something too…and something needs to be done, because women are the caretakers of the households, and they have to be protected and cared for.” Harding believes that there should be national labour quota, which would ensure that women are given
equal right to work in high offices and obtain better paying jobs. “Like for instance the construction sector. We have so many female engineers, but you don't see them being given projects or so…that is why such a quota is needed,” Harding said. She added, “Most of the students at the University of Guyana are women, and most times when they leave UG, you don't see them again. Why aren't they being given high paying jobs?” Asked about the female representation in the National Assembly, Harding said that it is a shame that rather than development, political ploys are prevailing. “This should not be the case. We need more women…yes, we have in education, but then again everything is made so political. Everything is politics, not development,” Harding stressed. She noted that women are leading the role of raising future generations, and everything that can be done, should ( continued on page 30)
The band members echo the calls of protestors outside of Parliament Building yesterday
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Mayor tells citizens don’t pay ‘Bara’ remanded to ‘one cent’ for Easter spots jail in $10M robbery ... Sooba says spots will be sold Citizens might be a bit confused now that City Hall is at odds with its administration over the sale of spots for t h e E a s t e r h o l i d a y. G e o rg e t o w n Mayor Hamilton Green is telling the public that they should not pay a cent for spots on the seawall, while Town Clerk (Ag) Carol Sooba is saying that citizens must pay if they wish to occupy the spots on Easter Monday. The Mayor stated firmly during a press conference at his office on Tuesday that citizens are not to pay “one cent” for the area while Sooba at a later meeting insisted that fees will be collected. Last week, the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) also sent out an advisory stating that citizens are not to pay any monies for the purchase of spots at the seawall. They called the sale of spots ‘illegal’ and said it was unauthorized, since the Council had not decided on anything pertaining to the matter. Tuesday, Mayor Green reiterated that the sale of the spots by the Town Clerk is illegal and arbitrary. He said that again, Sooba was making
a move that was unknown to and unauthorized by the Council and that there was no consultation between the Mayor and Town Clerk, nor did she inform the Council about advertisements for the sale of spots. Mayor Green said he will not tolerate individuals and their families having to pay fees for spots to fly kites or have picnics. He said persons can put down their selling trays and enjoy recreational activities since the sale of the locations are not authorized, “and is not likely to be authorized.” However, the Town Clerk has stated that the sale of spots commenced about three weeks ago and some have already been purchased. She said that citizens desirous of conducting business at the seawall between the Police Band Stand and University of Guyana road, can purchase spots which are marked out and numbered. She advised persons to get in contact with her office for information on the price of spots and added that the sale continues until Saturday. She said persons not conducting commercial
activities will not be charged a fee. Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green had also written to the Town Clerk (Ag) on the sale of spots. She said that the Council had discussed the issue at the last Finance Committee meeting and it was asked that the administration justify the amount being requested to do preparatory works and to activate the round robin system for Council’s permission to carry out the activity. However, this did not occur and an advertisement for spot sales was made public shortly after. The spots sale issue comes just after the contention over the sale of Mashramani spots which the Council said was also illegal, since again the Town Clerk did not acquire permission to do so. Sooba had stated that more revenue was needed to be raised for the cashstrapped Council and had upped the price of spots. Some big name companies had refused to purchase spots for Mashramani, citing exorbitant prices. However, the Council experienced increased revenue as a result.
Notorious criminal. Davendra Harricharran, called ‘Bara’, 27, of Nigg Squatting area, Corentyne, Berbice, who was wanted for the recent $10M robbery, appeared in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s court on Monday before Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus and was remanded to jail. Inspector Grace Bristol told the court that on April 9, at Rose Hall Town, while armed with guns, he robbed Ramlinggum Mangalie of $10M dollars, property of Ramlinggum Mangalie and Subramanie Mangalie. He was not required to plead. Prosecutor Bristol cited the nature, gravity and prevalence of the offence. In her objection to bail, she also stated that a firearm was used. The accused was recently on a murder charge. Two unmasked armed bandits on a motor cycle without a registration number, had held up and robbed Corentyne businessman Ramlinggum Mangalie, called Buddy, of $10M in cash. The man was about to deposit the money into the Republic Bank, Rose Hall Branch. Ramlinggum along with his brother Subramanie Mangalie and father, Mangalie Permaul, owns and operates the Permaul’s
World's oldest Managing Director? From page 21 somebody come in and cook and clean for her,” Mr. McAllister noted. The giggling Centenarian said, “I am on holiday right now.” She noted that being a “devoted Christian,” her favourite pastime is to attend her Bible classes every week. Mrs. McAllister, a former ‘Sunday School’ teacher, boasted that she is also able to read the Bible even without her spectacles. The woman’s son shared one instance when his mother even amazed a Magistrate. He said that just recently, she had cause to appear in court over a tenant owing her some money. “When the man called the case, he almost fell out of his chair. When my mother stood up, the Magistrate practically begged her to sit. After she didn’t want to, he volunteered to stand and carry out the case. I think he was surprised at the way she presented herself at that age,” Godfrey McAllister said. Reflecting on her life as a child, Mrs. McAllister said that she lived a very quiet life with her parents, Alberta Bunion and James Yard. She
was the youngest of three sisters and two brothers. “I don’t really have anything much to say about back then. My life basically revolved around school, home and Church. We would go to school for eight ‘o’ clock, come back at three ‘o’ clock, do our home works…and we would have to finish that in time to have dinner and prepare for Church meetings at seven ‘o’ clock…Then when we come back at eight ‘o’ its straight to bed,” Mrs. McAllister said. The grandmother of two noted however, that life began to get very interesting when she got married at the age of 29, to Hilton McAllister. “I remember we rode our bikes t o t h e Registrar’s Office, and after we got married, we came back and had a small lunch at my sister’s house.” But, McAllister said that this did not go down too well with her Church members. They insisted that a proper reception would have to be held. Unknown to she and her husband, McAllister said the Church members gave her an extremely special surprise.
They organised a truly “proper” wedding reception. “We couldn’t believe it. We had such a nice wedding and we didn’t even know anything about expenses or so. It was very nice to see all of our friends and church members gathering to wish us well.” After getting married, Helena McAllister became the silent force behind her “gogetter” husband. “Our father was the brain and engine. He was a businessman with great ideas, but it was our mother who made those ideas work,” Hilton Jnr. told Kaieteur News. Godfrey McAllister added, “At first, I thought that mommy was kind of like the weak one, but I remember one night waking up to hear a woman’s voice in our house. I had never heard this voice before, but as I batted my ears to hear more, I realized it was my mother. The next morning I woke up looking to find this newly discovered monster, but she was all jolly and nice again. That’s when I realized that she wasn’t as silent and easy, as we thought. She was the force that made everything
work.” He added, “No matter what amount of money our father made, our mother made it suffice. She literally prayed over it and made it work.” Mrs. McAllister said that from the days of riding to the Registrar ’s Office on a bicycle, she and her husband had the opportunity to travel to many countries, including England and Canada, during their 65 years of fruitful marriage. Her better half, who eventually became blind, died a few years ago. He was in his nineties. Today, Mrs. McAllister said that she takes pride in taking care of the businesses her husband has left in her care, and will continue to thank God everyday for being kind to her. She advises that young people read the Holy Scripture and learn from it, understanding that nothing can happen without God. McAllister celebrated her birthday in grand style last night at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown. President Donald Ramotar and Opposition Leader, David Granger were invited to the event.
Snackette, Trading and Distribution store at Lot 30 B, Albion Road, Corentyne. Ramlinggum was in his minivan, PPP1632, and had just pulled up in front of the bank to deposit the money when he was accosted by the two bandits on a motorcycle. The pillion rider dismounted and discharged a round in the air and grabbed the bag. He then grabbed another bag containing $7M. The man put up a fight but released the bag after the bandit discharged a round. The thief then remounted the motor cycle and he and his companion fled. Mangalie gave chase. However, due to the state of the street the man gave up the chase. The matter was reported and the police responded and went after the bandits. They then proceeded on foot into the backlands but the men had long disappeared. The motor cycle which was stripped for the purpose was found abandoned in the backlands. The police had launched a manhunt for the two suspects and after diligent investigation and acting on information, the police surprised the bandit at a gamble house at No.5 Village, West Coast Berbice on Friday Night. Investigators had
received information that Harricharran was the owner of the motorcycle and had taken it to a Mechanic shop to be repaired. However, due to the fact that the bike did not have any registration number, it was difficult to recognize. However, Investigators are seeking the help of the GRA to get the serial number of the bike. Harricharran was identified as the gun man. ‘Bara’ who was a member of the notorious ‘Pop Corn’ gang was recently freed on a murder charge. He was charged along with Gansham Jagassar called ‘Suresh’ and Abdulssalam Azimullah called “Sato” 29 of Lot 183 Hampshire, Corentyne, Berbice, for the 2004 murder of Gary Simon which occurred at Nigg Settlement, Corentyne, Berbice in a rum shop. After a preliminary inquiry conducted at the Albion Magistrate’s Court, they were committed to stand trial for manslaughter in the High Court and granted bail. The DPP subsequently reviewed the case and ordered that the men be committed for murder. However, by that time Azimullah could not be found. He was subsequently nabbed nine years after and is awaiting his day in court.
Man to face retrial for killing D’Urban Street woman After almost four hours of deliberation, the case against murder accused, Anthony Morrison ended yesterday, in a hung jury verdict. Morrison appeared before Justice Navindra Singh and a mixed 12-member Jury for the murder of his girlfriend, Donna Thomas, whom he had allegedly strangled to death between May 25 and May 27, 2012. The 45-year-old woman was found dead in her D’Urban Street, apartment days after the incident, reportedly took place. Thomas, a former employee of Professional Guard Service (PGS) was killed by her drug addicted boyfriend, (Morrison), because she refused to give up her money, which he had requested from her. It was reported that some of the woman’s colleagues visited the premises days after the incident took place and observed that the front door was slightly open. After calling and receiving no answer, they entered the
apartment and saw Thomas motionless on her bed with marks of violence on her body. An autopsy later revealed that Thomas had died from manual strangulation and blunt trauma to the head. Some of the bones in the woman’s neck were broken. She also suffered a broken thumb. Morrison was arrested and charged days after the discovery of Thomas’ body. He was represented by Attorney-at-Law, Onassis Granville, while Prosecutor, Natasha Backer presented the State’s case. Following the summing up of the trial by Justice Singh yesterday, the mixed 12member jury retired to consider the outcome of the case. When the panel reappeared, the foreman announced that the jurors did not come to a unanimous verdict. As such, Justice Singh stated that Morrison will remain in prison to face a retrial at the next sitting of the Demerara Criminal assizes.
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Former GRA employee remanded for trafficking cocaine in mail A Customs officer formerly attached to the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) Timehri branch was yesterday brought before a city Magistrate to be indicted for drug trafficking following the discovery of cocaine in a mail bag at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) a few days ago. Yesterday morning, the accused Guyana Revenue Authority Employee, Clive David, was taken to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court charged with possession of a narcotic for the purpose of trafficking. The charge which was read to David by Magistrate Ann McLennan alleged that between April 9 and April 11 at GPOC on Robb Street, he trafficked 647 grams of cocaine. The accused pleaded not guilty and submitted an application for bail through his lawyer, Lancelot Patrick Ferreira. Ferreira told the court that his client is a long standing GRA employee. He said that the man was given the package by a friend to post. Stating that he does not believe the investigations into the matter are complete, the lawyer urged the Magistrate to consider bail for his client. His application, however, was met with sharp objections from the
Prosecution, spearheaded by Corporal Deniro Jones, who said that no special reasons were raised by the defence counsel for David to be granted bail. Jones said that the police are in possession of a confession statement given by the defendant who professed that he posted the envelopes knowing that the illicit substance was concealed inside. Notwithstanding the application by the defence, Magistrate McLennan upheld the objections submitted by the Prosecution. The court, she said, found that no special reasons were brought forward for bail to be granted to the accused and he was remanded to prison. The case will be called again on May 9 at the said court before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. Based on reports, Police Narcotics Branch ranks were conducting a routine search when the illegal substance was unearthed in several envelopes in a mail bag. The bag was about to be loaded onto a Caribbean Airlines flight bound for the John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York in the United States of America. On Monday, last David was taken into police custody following a thorough investigation into the drug bust.
Thursday April 17, 2014
NGSA gets underway incident free Mixed emotions prevailed yesterday as the 2014 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) got underway. Pupils decked in their school uniforms were seen scurrying to the various examination centres across the country yesterday morning in order to access the assessment papers that were slated to be administered. Although there were some who appeared anxious, there were others who were expressionless as they made their way into the examination rooms. Of interest too was the fact that some parents and other relatives, who accompanied the pupils to the examination centres, appeared even more uneasy than the pupils. Yesterday the pupils were assessed in the subject areas of English Language and Science. The assessments are scheduled to continue today with pupils being tested on
the subject areas of Social Studies and Mathematics. Pupils are expected to complete two segments (Papers One and Two) of each subject area. The resulting scores are expected to guide the pupils’ placement at secondary level schools. According to information from the Ministry of Education, more than 15, 000 pupils are slated to participate in the NGSA. And based on reports from a number of centres across the country, the first day of the assessments went rather well. This pronouncement was substantiated by Superintendent of Examination, Saudia Kadir, who disclosed that all logistical system were in place and all minor administrative issues were addressed, thereby allowing for the assessment process to be conducted. “Things are going well, and we at the Ministry
are always happy when things are going well,” said Kadir in an invited comment yesterday. She however, disclosed that she could not comment further on the assessments since the process only commenced yesterday. The Ministry of Education in a statement issued recently disclosed that pupils who failed to adhere to the Ministry’s caution to keep all cellular phones and other electronic devices out of examination rooms could be barred from the examination. “We are therefore asking candidates to leave such devices at home. Any candidate found with such devices during the examination will be disqualified,” added the statement. However, there were no reports yesterday of moves to disqualify any candidate. This publication was able to visit a number of
examination centres and several pupils disclosed that the assessment papers were easy even as they expressed confidence that they would be able to secure places at top schools; mainly Queen’s College. The Education Ministry had earlier this year identified the dates for the NGSA as well as the date by which the results should be available. This development, according to the Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, is in keeping with efforts to regularise the NGSA programme so as to ensure that “people are not waiting and anxious and asking us every day when it will be out; we kind of know when that will happen,” assured the Minister. Last year the top performing NGSA candidate was Salma Majeed of the ISA Islamic Academy who secured 548 marks out of a possible 560.
Chilean President assures CARICOM of her country’s support Chile’s President Michele Bachelet assured CARICOM Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque of her country’s continuing support for the development of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The President received
the Secretary-General at her office , i n S a n t i a g o o n Tuesday, the second and final day of his official visit to Chile. Ambassador LaRocque welcomed her assurance and thanked the President for her country’s genuine and meaningful efforts at co-operation with the Community. He also took the o p po r t u n i t y t o e x t e n d sympathy to the President on behalf of CARICOM for the tragic loss of life and property due to the fires in Valparaiso. As the visit drew to a close later that day, the Secretary-General expressed his satisfaction at the result of his discussions over the two days. “I feel very satisfied with the outcome of the discussions with the government of Chile and the various agencies that I have met,” he said. Ambassador LaRocque said that apart from building on the friendship with Chile, there had been progress in advancing the Plan of Action which had been guiding the technical co-operation between CARICOM and Chile. On Tuesda y, the Secretary-General had held discussions with the Deputy Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (UNECLAC), Mr. Antonio Prado and his team.
Her Excellency Michele Bachelet They looked at ways that the two organisations could continue to collaborate in particular with respect to the negotiations for the UN Post 2015 Development Agenda and in the continuing efforts to have Haiti fully participate in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The Secretary-General, who was accompanied by CARICOM’s Assistant Secretary-General for Foreign and Community Relations, Ambassador Colin Granderson, was kept abreast of the on-going initiatives in the Caribbean by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) during his visit to the agency’s Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean. Mr. Raul Benitez, the Assistant Director General and FAO’s Regional
Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean and his team, outlined the programmes and also indicated the areas in which the FAO would be involved in going forward. Both sides stressed the need to build the Community’s capacity in the area of Sanitary and Phyto Sanitary (SPS) measures. This was viewed as vital to boosting trade in agricultural products both within CARICOM and to external markets. During a visit to the University of Chile’s Seismological Centre, its Director Dr. Sergio Barrientos explained the on-going work in preparing for natural disasters, in particular earthquakes and tsunamis. The Centre has been lending its expertise to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and has also be e n b u i l d i n g a relationship with the U n i v e r s i t y o f t h e We s t Indies (UWI) Seismic Centre at the St. Augustine Campus in Trinidad and Tobago. The work with CDEMA is under the auspices of the Plan of Action which came out of the Technical Cooperation Agreement between CARICOM and Chile. The Plan of Action 20122014 is being implemented in the areas of Education, Agriculture, Disaster Management, Health and programmes for CARICOM diplomats.
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Combined Opposition slashes $37.4B from 2014 Budget …Amaila vote responsible for $22B Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, last month presented a $220B Budget for 2014. By the time the voting was finished yesterday, some $37.4B was slashed from the Estimates, leaving the administration with only $182.6B. Those affected by the cuts are the Ministries of Health, Amerindian Affairs, Public Works, Finance and Office of the President. Yesterday marked the final day for the consideration of the 2014 estimates and saw $22.2B being lopped from the Capital Programme for the Ministry of Finance. The contentious allocation in the Ministry’s Capital Programme was that of a $16B allocation for the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project under the Bharrat Jagdeo-led Low Carbon Development Strategy. When the project came up for consideration, Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan, requested that allocation be delinked from the rest of the Programme, given that the party had no problems with other allocations but maintains its positions on the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project. He reminded that the party wanted to await the findings of the Inter American Development Bank’s due dilligence report on the project before it can take a positive vote for the allocation. A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) financial spokesperson, Carl Greenidge, told the Members
of the House that Government cannot at the time of requesting a vote in the allocation say that it is now desirous of having discussions with the opposition. According to Greenidge it has to be the other way around in that, there must be the discussions prior to the vote. He too called for a delinking of the project which would allow for that one to be voted on separately as against having to vote down the entire programme, under which the allocation is made. Greenidge said, too, that there were still a number of issues that APNU flagged in relation to the project and that these remain outstanding. There is the financing package and the contract as a whole. According to Greenidge, the parties should wait until the third quarter, when the Due Diligence Report would be available. Between then and now, “we would have had an opportunity to discuss.” The Minister in response to the calls by the opposition members said, “We have no difficulty continuing conversation and providing information.” He however, pointed to the fact that last year when the House showed reluctance, “just that signal of tentativeness lost us several months and hurt the relationship.” Dr. Singh said that the international stakeholders had put a brake on pursuit of the project at that time.
According to Dr. Singh, a single signal of uncertainty on the part of the legislature could derail the project. As he implored for a positive vote Dr. Singh told the House, “It is extremely difficult for a large investor to say to its board, let us approve a project when the national jurisdiction is showing reluctance…I urge that we don’t do anything to derail this project, we can talk tomorrow.” This however failed to garner the support of the Opposition which voted against the $22.2B allocation. Meanwhile during the consideration of the recurring expenditure for the Ministry of Finance, it was revealed that there is a $4.4B allocation under a renamed line item in order to cater for salary increases for public servants. The Minister however could not say what per cent increase there would be for the public servants as this would be determined through the collective bargaining agreement with the unions. He did point out that the entire $4.4B would not be
Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh defends the budgetary allocations used for pay increases alone, but rather to meet any shortfalls in employment or new recruits. According to the Minister, a shortfall in payment arises when there are promotions to public servants during the course of the year. The Minister was also grilled on a more than $226M subsidy to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) as well as an inquiry into why the money was increased from $116M. Dr. Singh told the House that firstly, the money is not a
Greenhouse gas... From page 23 agriculture's emissions. “Data on emissions for AFOLU activities support member countries in better identifying their mitigation options and enable their farmers to take faster and more targeted climate-smart responses. This in turn improves their overall resilience and their
food security. It also allows the countries to tap into international climate funding and accomplish their rural development goals. We also see much interest in capacity development on these topics at country level and respond to these needs through regional and country-level activities around the globe,” he added.
subsidy to NIS per say and reminded that among the measures to revive the entity, a decision was taken to increase contributions by one per cent. Government, he reminded, took the responsibility to make the payment for employers and employees for those earning $50,000 or less each month. The money, he said, is used to make the payments to NIS. As it relates to the increase, the Minister said that when the decisions was taken to make the payments it was effective June last year, meaning that the allocation
was only meant to meet payments for seven months. The increase this year is to meet payments for the entire year. The allocations for the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport as well as the Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce were also scrutinized yesterday and approved untouched.
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Thursday April 17, 2014
Essequibo Coast mother Guysuco workers strike pursues son’s killer after snake bites worker
Shirley Dyal, a Essequibo mother, who resides in Venezuela is requesting the assistance of the local police to mobiles some form of strategy in apprehending her son’s killer. Dyal’s son, 19-year-old, Fawaaz Mohamed, a Venezuelan national, sustained a single gunshot wound to his head several months ago in Venezuela and died. His killer is believed to be his brother-in-law, who fled Venezuela after the incident and is said to be hiding either on the Coast or in Barbados. Dyal is adamant that her son-in-law is responsible for her son’s death and she wants justice for her son’s killer. Relating the sad ordeal, Dyal said on January 26, last her youngest child, Fawaaz, a mechanic returned home and
Fawaaz Mohamed moments after he stepped out of his car was killed by a single bullet. Dyal said that her son and his brother-in-law had no grievance; however, efforts to evict her son-in-law from her home in Venezuela became an issue. The woman believed
that this fueled the measure of uneasiness between herself and son-in-law. Dyal added that after the death of her son, she returned to Guyana and lodged a statement with the police at the Charity Outpost about her son’s death, since she was informed her son-in-law was hiding out somewhere on the Coast. The depressed mother later learnt that her son-in-law had moved and could possibly be hiding out in Barbados. Her main purpose for highlighting her story is to have the suspect arrested and prosecuted. “I want to find closure and until the suspect is apprehended I would not find peace.” Dyal said that her son-inlaw is originally from the Essequibo Coast.
Aircraft Owners Association disappointed at budget cuts on Aviation sector The Aircraft Owners Association of Guyana say they feel disappointed that the recommendations which were urged by the Aviation Industry for the development of the sector received minimal recognition in this year’s budget. The AOAG said yesterday, that following the National Economic Forum last year which was hosted by the Government; the Aviation Sub-Group of the Forum had submitted a comprehensive policy proposal and action plan. The forum which saw both the government and opposition participating subsequently approved the National Competitive Strategy Council which is chaired by his Excellency the President. The AOAG said that they were further peeved that the joint Parliamentary
Opposition has seen it fit to cut the entire aviation budget, including the Cheddi Jagan International Airport expansion programme which is fully supported by both the Aviation and Tourism industries. Inexplicably they said that their proposals have been ignored in the budget. The AOAG had recommended in the policy proposal for the immediate attention of the government for an independent “Aircraft Accident Investigation” with prompt public reporting of the findings of these investigations and actions taken by the GCAA. They are also calling for the strengthening of the institutional capacity of the Civil Aviation Authority in order to achieve and maintain a Category 1 US FAA/IASA status.
Further, the AOAG also wants the implementing of industry recommendations for Hinterland airstrip development to accommodate larger aircraft and with sufficient budgetary funding to support an efficient maintenance and rehabilitation programme. “The Aircraft Owners Association of Guyana looks forward to the National Assembly seriously addressing the development of the Aviation Industry in a constructive and comprehensive manner if, indeed…Guyana is to be expected to meet its developmental objectives and obligations, particularly with regard to the servicing of our hinterland communities and our Mining, Forestry and our Tourism industries,” the AOA said.
More than 90 workers of the harvesting E Gang of the Guysuco Rose Hall Estate on Wednesday walked off the job to protest the treatment meted out to a colleague who was bitten by a snake whilst cutting cane. The man, Indernauth Jugisteer, 29, of Betsy Ground, Canje, was bitten by a dangerous snake whilst at work at Enterprise C in the back dam on Monday. He was rushed to the New Amsterdam hospital, but after his condition worsened he was transferred to the Georgetown Hospital where he is receiving treatment. According to information the workers used the incident to protest a number of related issues. According to his father, M.P Jugisteer, who himself is a cane harvester; his son has been working for a number of years in the cane fields. He stated that they are upset because the cane fields were not burnt properly. “First time the entire field use to be burn now only half is burnt. First time when cane burn, everything use to dead,
burn up or they had to get away. Now, because it don’t be done properly, the fire just pass top, top. We are upset; we want 100 per cent burning.” The snake was hiding under the leaves. He said that the area is a known snake infested area and the corporation should have done a better job in terms of burning the cane. He also stated that since the incident no one from the Sugar Corporation has visited their home to inquiry what is the situation. All the expenses are on them. They want a full investigation into the matter. Indernaut’s uncle, T.P Jugisteer, also a cane harvester corroborated most of what his brother said. He stated that his nephew was working alongside him on a next bed. They were cutting cane for a bell loader. He said that his nephew had already cut the cane and was about to take off the leaves. As he held the leaves the three-foot long labaria bit him on his right hand. The man said that his nephew called out to him and showed
him that he was bitten by a snake. He immediately went to the young man’s assistance. But he did not see the reptile which had returned under the leaves. He said that he then took a piece of cane and started poking the area. The snake was found under the leaves and was striking at the cane. He subsequently killed the reptile. He then had the ardent task to ferrying his nephew out of the cane fields for medical attention. The man said that the canals were filled with weeds and he and some colleagues had to place his nephew on a water punt and go into the trench and pull the punt through the waterway before they could get to the dam. The injured man was ferried by ambulance to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was admitted. The workers said that they are unhappy with how Guysuco is handling the matter. “All GuySuCo is concerned with is production; they don’t care anything about the workers.”
Albouystown vendor fined, jailed for drug peddling A city Magistrate yesterday sentenced a 28-year-old Albouystown vendor to three years in jail after he confessed to trafficking drugs “to make ends meet.” Yesterday, Magistrate Ann McLennan told Jason Heyliger that coupled with his jail sentence, he will also pay a fine of $205,400. Heyliger who resides at Lot 298 Independence Boulevard, Albouystown, was on Monday busted by police ranks on jeep patrol and subsequently charged for being in possession of 171 grams of cannabis for trafficking purposes. Three days later, he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to the charge.
State Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones explained that about 17:55 that day Heyliger was stopped and searched by the ranks who had noticed him “approaching others” with a Bob Marley haversack on his back. Jones explained that when the ranks checked the haversack they found a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis concealed in silver foil and a black plastic bag. He explained that the illicit substance was also found in Heyligar’s pants pocket. He was taken into police custody and the charge was instituted against him. The Prosecution stated too that the defendant has had no previous charges or convictions before any court.
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale.Call:627-5416
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 Clean garden earth, also Bobcat & Excavator rentals. Tel: 626-7127 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 Beverage Cooler great condition 223-9719 / 227-1028 Games PS2 $900, PSP $900, X-Box 360 $2600 & PS3 $2600 & Original Games Call: 672-2566 Household items stove, couch, bed, closet, coffee maker, dishes, sewing machine, baby stroller 2239719/227-1028 Wardrobe, desk, divider, vases, beds, sink, photo frame, radio set, etc. Call: 226-2284 Toyota 4 runner great condition , Price negotiable 223-9719 / 227- 1028 6 weeks old pit-bull pups fully vaccinated and dewormed – Please Call: 6913368 for more information. Complete 8 Bass sound system 70KVA generator – Tel: 610-1230, 673-5828 Hi-Fi Sound Connection. Dell Computers with 20" LCDs - $65,000, Laptops $50,000, Iphone 3GS $30,000 at Futuretech – 2312206, 644-6760
FOR SALE Toyota Forklift - Excellent condition, 4,000lbs capacity, 117" Lift, Solid Wheels, Automatic Transmission, 4 Cylinder LPG Motor. Call: 604-6108. Slate pools table 8x4 $450,000 negotiable, 1 brand new 2 door freezer - $100,000, 1 fridge - $35,000 – Tel:6018083, 689-2658. Pure breed German Shepherd puppies - $75,000 each – Tel:682-2148, 655-8674 Two imported pools table – Call:623-3404 One 6125 John Deere tractor for sale. For more information contact: 670-3328 One 2600 PSI Honda Pressure Washer : 672-7759 Blow out sale on 5/8 smooth steel rods – Priced to go – Tel:657-4072 Gold and Diamond Land @ Ekereou Honey Camp, Berbice River (Parish Hill) – Tel:223-1719, 600-0036 Salon equipment, foot spa, hydraulic chairs – Tel:2231719 Large land in Bagotsville, W.B.D 37x724 - $5.9M – Tel:223-1719 or 600-0036 Houses located Ogle, Diamond, Herstelling, BelAir, Lamaha Gardens, ETC, Contact: 223-8479/684-4748, www.spaceseek.gy
TAXI SERVICE IN OPERATION - TEL: 6210400 Fresh Halaal pluck chicken. Tel:602-2131, 2704319, 654-5432, Price $300 per lb free delivery
1 – 2 storey wooden & concrete house with 5 bedrooms, upper flat & lower flat 4 apartments located@ Shell Road, kitty - $38.9M – Tel: 642-7898 Prime Property for sale Light Street, Alberttown Contact: 639-3619, 619-7299 Lamaha Gardens – 2 storey concrete buildings, 4 Bedrooms, Jacuzzi, Hot & Cold, etc - Call: 227-0464, 6463251 Property at Third Street, East Meten- Meer-Zorg W.C.D – Contact: 277-3743 or 6620773. Price is negotiable. House and land at Lot 30 Ketley Street -48ftX27ft, back house – Call:602-8771 One three storey business property @ Middle St. Georgetown – Tel:619-7134, 225-6481 price negotiable. 2 Business properties on Whim Public Road Corentyne – Call: 619-7134, 225-6481. Price Negotiable Sophia - $3M, 3 houses @ W.B.D - $22M, Diamond A – $28M, Providence- $16M, South - $17M – Contact:2312199, 618-7483
1,500 Acres of Land located in Berbice. Includes Machinery, Property and Multiples Vehicles, etc, Contact: 223-8479/684-4748, www.spaceseek.gy DRESSMAKING Jean is offering courses in dressmaking, curtains, floral & cake decoration. Lot 153 Barr St Kitty – Call:670-2653, 618-1706
One brand new Lincoln welding set AC/225. Price: $77,000 negotiable Tel:684-3195 Pork - $380, Pork Chops $650, leg pork - $480lb, salted pork -$450 (8 Lbs pails) @ Geroge & Hadfield Sts.
Two Storey concrete building. Price$32M, E.C.D. Call:661-9431 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; 617-9230
LEARN TO DRIVE Shalom Driving School @ 2 Croal street. Fee $16,000- Call:227-3869 A l l e y n e ’s P r o f e s s i o n a l Driving School @ 651 East Ruimveldt, Best P r i c e s C a l l :226-9181; 613-0223; 668-9331
LAND FOR SALE Parika Highway 45’X444’ – Call:2270464; 646-3251 Republic Gardens, four lots together (50x100) each lot $12M per lot – Call: 646-3251, 227-0464 Schoonard - $2M, La Parafaite Harmonie- $1.2M & $1M, Herstelling (100ftX60ft) - $3M, Tuchen (with foundation & Column) - $3.2M - Contact: 218-5591, 675-7292 Blankenburg, Public Road W. C . D ( 3 8 f t X 1 5 0 f t ) , (39ftX150ft) $16M each - Call: 658-0132 MASSAGE The Gents Spa: Be pampered by beautiful masseuses. New masseuses Amanda and Crystal – Tel:657-5979
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FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 House to rent in Friendship E.B.D - Tel: 266-0163 Secured Concrete bond 87’X32’, lots of yard space suitable for Car Mart; Public Road McDoom: Tel: 233-0570 One upper flat @ 6th Street Cummings Lodge ECD - Call: 622-3580
SALON
VEHICLE FOR SALE
Make Up Courses, Artist Trained & Certified in Trinidad. Call: 660-5257, 647-1773
Unregistered Toyota Tundra 4x4 leather Interior $3.1M 139 Garnett St, Georgetown – Tel:621-7767
Nail Technology & Hair care courses @ Beautopia, also available Brazilian, Indian, Malaysian & Peruvian Virgin Hair – Call:604-3002 or 6698477
1 Toyota RZ minibus in excellent working condition. Price: $1.5M negotiable, Call:675-3773 (Serious enquires only)
Coolers and Scaffold- Call: 657-0424 Cement mixers, generators and water pump - Tel: 643-1131 Large space for wholesale business, Kuru-Kuru Soesdyke Highway – Tel:2231719, 600-0036
VACANCY 24 Hour East Coast Guy-oil needs night pump attendants, salesgirl & office assistant- Call: 670-8893/ 6959880/ 684-2838
Executive Four Bedroom House located in Bel-Air ParkUSD $2500-Contact: 2238 4 7 9 / 6 8 4 - 4 7 4 8 , www.spaceseek.gy
Federal Management Security Services: Armed, Baton Officers, bus drivers. Located @ 120 Peter Rose Street, Queenstown - Tel:2260633, 226-0652, 226-0637
Executive Houses & Apartments Located in Queenstown, Prashad Nagar, Kitty, Lamaha Springs, etc, Contact: 223-8479/ 684-4748, www.spaceseek.gy
Female Accounts Clerk (for Eccles) 4 Subjects CXC atleast 2 years experience, knowledge of Peachtree. Email: vijai_ramnarine@ hotmail.com
Office Spaces located in secure compound on New Market Street. Contact: 2238 4 7 9 / 6 8 4 - 4 7 4 8 , www.spaceseek.gy
One trainee refrigeration A/C technician - Tel: 2310655
EDUCATIONAL Kids Easter Computer Classes. Age 6 to 14, $6,000 - 3weeks @ Micrographics Technology Vreed-En-Hoop Call: 264-3057 9 Courses, Diploma in Computer Studies - $35,000 @ Micrographics Technology, Vreed-En-Hoop- Call:2643057 (Individual Teaching)
CAR RENTAL Dolly’s Car Rental - Call: 225-7126/ 226-3693 dollys autorental@yahoo.com/ www.dolly sautorental.com TOURS Special Trip to Suriname April 24th - 27th 2014, Special Package Contact Ravi: 6240622. Spaces are limite d
Toyota Allion PRR 9124, low miles, mags, reverse camera, etc. In excellent condition Call Ayube: 233-5557; 6101309
Supervisors, Cosmetologist, Massage Therapist. For details call:672-1239
TO LET 1 – Four bedrooms house with all modern conveniences, semifurnished - $300,000 monthly, Happy Acres Tel: 231-7839 (working hours) Rooms - Tel:225-9223 Wings Two bedrooms apartment in Eccles – Tel:6431131 Now Open! Harmony Inn, Georgetown Branch - $6,000 & $7,000 – Contact:668-0306, 694-7817, 602-8769 Space Available for rent at UG Road, for any type of business – Call:623-3404 Two bedroom house, E.C.D – Call:663-9816 or 619-3887 La Parfaite (A.C), Diamond, Ogle, Prashad N a g a r, Q u e e n s t o w n , Lamaha Gardens, Stabroek, Robb St, South & North Road – Tel:231-2200, 670-9128
1 AT 2 1 2 C a r i n a f u l l y powered with A/C & CD Music in excellent condition. Price $1,350,000 negotiable – Tel:625-6397 Smart Choice Auto Sales: Unregistered: P r e m i o , A l l e x , I S T, Spacio, Allion - Call: 652-3820; 665-4529 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:680-3154 Toyota Verossa, Price:$2.5M, PLL series, excellent condition Contact George: 603-7172 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call:680-3154 Reduced Prices: Premio, Spacio, Axela, Raum, Allex, AT212, Tel: 681-4208, 2206262 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 One registered Allion 2003. In excellent condition – Call: 652-3820, 665-4529 Unregistered 2004 Raum – Price $2M Tel: 691-7475 1 AT 192 Carina with A/C & CD music, fully powered in excellent condition – Price $975,000 negotiable - Tel:6256397 First Class Auto: Premio, Allion, Spacio, Raum, 212, Allex, Runx, IST, Fielder, Bluebird, Axela – Tel:6098188, 638-3045 1 Carina AT212, PMM Series, very good working condition. Leather seats, flash drive deck, rims. Price negotiable – Call:663-1576 NISSAN TITAN - VERY GOOD CONDITION, LEATHER INTERIOR, FULLY LOADED $2.5M NEG. CALL: 620-1026 One 8,000 Ford Tractor, one 450 Ford Towing Truck & size 16 & 17 tyres - Contact Floyd: 694-5599 (Continued on page 30)
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Thursday April 17, 2014
Demerara Lionesses feed children of Ptolemy Reid Centre (From page 29)
WANTED Experienced cashier apply with application & Passport size photo to survival shopping complex – Tel:2275286/9 Urgently Need! Experienced general domestic maid -Tel: 609-1535 or 227-8529 Experienced Taxi drivers to work @ Gems Taxi Service – Tel:627-9424, 227-0638 1 General Domestic to work in Georgetown, must know to cook Indian & Creole dishes. Must be trustworthy - Call:656-6388 Urgently needed live-in waitresses to work in bar & restaurant. Reasonable Salary Offer. Tel:259-0574 One female to cook at a home in the Interior Contact:681-6044 Two mechanics, assistant mechanic, secretary. Apply at J&J Service Center – Tel:227-4897 or 660-3360 Experienced drivers with mini-bus and hire car licensed, also contract vehicles needed - Call: 645-0025 Jobs available for people with computer experienced. Make $5,000-$20,000 Daily – Call:622-1957 Live in domestic – Tel:2209873 Models Needed Urgently for overseas advertising company. Earn up to $100,000 daily - Tel:622-1957
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Repairs, sales & spares air conditioning, microwaves, washer, fridges & stoves. Ultra Cool, call: 225-9032, 6472943 COOL TECH: Repairs Services & Installation of all types of home appliances: Air Condition & Refrigeration units - Tel: 233-2008; 675-4959 B R I D G E WAT E R CONSTRUCTIONS - CO: NEWHOMESREMODELING, NEWBATHROOMS,TILE& MARBLEINSTALLATION, F R E E E S T I M AT E S CALL: 660-6935; 6769660; 269-094 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 225-6496, 6626045 Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Technicians available for appliance repairs – washers, dryers, microwaves, stoves, deep fryers, etc – Tel: 6190793; 218-0050
Make $5,000-$20,000 daily working from home - Call: 622-1957 One cement block maker, good pay – Tel:622-1957 One live in waitress, between ages 18-25. Salary -$50,000 monthly, boarding and lodging free Tel: 610-5043 Live-in couple, husband: driving duties, wife: domestic. Good rates & accommodation – Tel:6102978 - (after 5pm) One Bahir (cook) to work in the interior. Must keep self & environment clean & tidy – Contact Troy: 6046730 . D r i v e r t o w o r k To y o t a Raum, preferably from West Coast Demerara – Please Contact:614-3280 One night security, apply in writing with a valid police clearance to GCC Ground, Bourda
VEHICLE FOR SALE BMW 525I M BODY KIT, EXCELLENT CONDITION, LOW MILEAGE, PRICE NEG. CALL : 620-1026 1 Leyland Daf 45-130, 1 Nissan Titan 4x4 for $2.6MTele # 660-4483
The Demerara Lionesses recently provided lunch for the fifty-five students of the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre on Carmichael Street, Georgetown. The venture was part of the Club’s activities to celebrate its 25th Anniversary, in which members are seeking to feed the occupants of twenty five (25) children homes across the Country. Club President Blossom Manbodh- Samuels said the exercise was fun and the time spent with the children gave the Lion’s great satisfaction, as it “reinforced our enthusiasm to further serve the Community.”
Club President Blossom Manbodh-Samuels serves a meal to a student of the Ptolemy Reid Centre
AG appeals High Court ruling... From page 9 District Councils Act Chapter 28:01. The AG argued, also, that the CJ’s ruling was “misconceived and wrong in law” when he misdirected himself in finding that Section 95 of the Municipal and District Councils Act, - which speaks to the convening of a Local Government Service Commission, -came into operation in the absence of any evidence of that being done, and in the face of evidence which tend to establish that the Commission was never convened. The AG believes therefore, that the CJ made his ruling against the weight of the evidence before him. The AG has brought this matter to the Appeal Court in light of the CJ’s April 10 ruling which returned Town Clerk Carol Sooba to act as TC, since the Court was of the opinion that the Local Government Ministry did not have the legal power to appoint Sooba to the substantive position. It found that it was the job of the Local Government Service Commission to hire persons earning above a certain salary. However, this commission was never enacted. The Court believed however, that Sooba could remain the de facto (not legal) Town Clerk since the law did
allow the Minister to function in the absence of the Commission; but should not continue to dismiss the Commission in order to perform its functions. The CJ had noted that certain evidence from the Ministry was not in his possession and he had to conduct his own research; still not finding the necessary information. The CJ had told the court that if he erred in his ruling, it was because the defendants had not provided the relevant information. Royston King had brought the action to court last year, when Sooba was appointed Town Clerk despite an interview panel; convened to find a suitable Town Clerk; deeming her the least qualified of the
applicants. The Court had ruled however that the Minister was not obligated to appoint the applicant chosen by the interview panel, since he did not submit his power to the panel, but had put them in place to advise him on the most suitable appointment. However, City Hall has taken up the CJ’s ruling and the Council has now sought legal input to determine how to get rid of Sooba. The Council had also taken the ruling to mean that they could have moved a motion to replace Sooba or send her on leave, but that attempt has been red flagged by the Attorney General who is saying to the Council that any move to replace Sooba is a contempt of Court and he would be taking legal action
against the Council should they remove Sooba. The AG has warned the Council not to let him resort to legal action since the CJ’s ruling maintains that Sooba can remain the de facto Town Clerk in the absence of the Commission. However, the divide between the Council and its Administration has caused further mediocrities at the already cash-strapped Mayor and City Council (M&CC). Mayor Hamilton Green has stated that Sooba’s vacation leave is overdue by two years, and in light of the numerous matters in which she is involved “she should do the honourable thing and step down.” Sooba has stated however, that she will remain the acting Town Clerk until the court decides otherwise.
From page 16 be, in order to protect them. “If we do this, and we help our women…we are ultimately helping the future, because there are also many single mothers who raise their children on their own.” “Let the women speak,” Harding urged, adding, “We should not be made to feel invisible.” Simona Broomes of the GWMO, who has also been championing the cause of human trafficking in and out of Guyana, reiterated that noth-
ing is being done to assist and protect Trafficking In Person (TIP) survivors. She believes that such persons are being neglected by the relevant authorities. “It is sad to know that even if we managed to rescue one victim, there is nothing being put in place to help them.” During a recent interview with this publication, Broomes said that ever since the GWMO was formed in 2012, having a home for TIP survivors was on the list of priority projects.
Meanwhile, Herbert Goocharan of the Salvation Army told Kaieteur News that his participation in the protest is as a result of struggles faced by his female loved ones. “I have my sisters, daughters, aunts and nieces, and I know of some of them who suffer from abuse and secondrate treatment and it's not right, so I am here, supporting these women, with the hope that something would be done to assist the women struggling with abuse and gender-based violence and so. I believe also that the politicians should do more to support the cause of women in Guyana.” Although briefly, Indra Chandrapal, Head of Women and Gender Equity Commission, Member of Parliament and former Minister of Labour, Human Services and Social Security came out to listen to the protestors. Echoing the calls of the protestors in a rather melodious manner was a local boy-band.
Women's groups stage...
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Venezuelan crisis talks show signs of progress
Ramon Guillermo Aveledo, center, executive secretary for the opposition Democratic Unity alliance, speaks to the media after a closed door meeting between the government and opposition representatives in Caracas, Venezuela, Tuesday. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa) CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) - Negotiators from Venezuela’s government and the opposition agreed to broaden membership in a truth commission tasked with investigating who’s to blame for 41 deaths tied to weeks of political unrest. The compromise was announced following hours
of negotiations that took place Tuesday night behind closed doors in what both sides described as a muchneeded if torturous attempt at dialogue in a nation polarized by 15 years of socialist rule. Heading into Tuesday’s talks the government had insisted that any probing of the protests be led by
Congress, which it dominates. But it partially met the opposition’s demands for an independent commission by agreeing to include national figures trusted by both sides. Talks that began last week are being sponsored by the Vatican as well as three South American nations.
HAVANA (AP) — Cuba yesterday published the full language of a new law that seeks to make it more attractive for foreign investors to bring badly needed capital to the island, but provides less advantage for projects that are 100 percent foreign-financed. The law was approved by parliament and the broad outlines of its content were aired in state media, and the text is now publicly available after being published in the government’s Official Gazette. Havana is betting that the measure will make the country more attractive to the business community and bring in more foreign investment, which has been flat including in the years since President Raul Castro
began a program of economic reforms. The measure, which takes effect in late June, includes tax breaks for new investments and property guarantees for investors, and also outlines arbitration procedures and labor rules for foreign-financed projects. Investments in mixedownership projects or in tandem with independent cooperatives will enjoy a tax holiday for the first eight years of operation and pay 15 percent on profits after that — about half the current rate. Such operations will also be exempt from payroll taxes. However projects that are funded completely by foreign capital do not automatically qualify for those breaks, unless they are granted an exemption by the
government. Foreign companies will still be required to hire local employees through a Cuban employment agency instead of directly, something that many who have done business on the island have complained about for years. The law allows for investors to work with independent cooperatives, but does not establish a mechanism for the same to happen with the small private sector that has been budding under Castro’s reforms. The new rules replace a law from 1995. It is scheduled to take effect in late June. Officials all the way up to Castro have said that getting more foreign investment is vital if they are to meet their economic goals in the coming years.
Cuba publishes text of foreign investment law
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur Sport raps new... Kolkata open with thumping victory From page 39 mention their names right now since we are still talking. We are very optimistic that assistance will come our way for our youths to really fulfill their true potential. KN - Any short, medium or long term plan (s)? IP - We have a Technical Plan that encompasses all of this and it has been sent to all the relevant persons and entities that we believe can help us implement same. The GASA is really going
hard at this and trying to leave no stones unturned to explore all different ways to make sure that swimmers achieve their potential at all levels. The plan also includes our parents and all technical personnel, all vital stakeholders. KN - How active do you see our swimmers progressing at the various levels and what level of technical support is the GASA putting in place to see the holistic development of athletes with the requisite potential?
IP – I am not sure what is there for us as an association but we are going to lean on the Guyana Olympic Association, fundraising activities and what we can garner from sponsorship and well wishers. We had a very informative meeting with the Director of Sport – Mr. Neil Kumar and so far we are trying to maintain a very good relationship hoping that as we develop with the assistance already given (the pool at Lilliendaal) we will be able to attract more.
Thursday April 17, 2014 ARIES (MAR 21 - APR 19): An intense conversation with your romantic partner could take place today, Aries. This could involve taking the relationship to the next commitment level, and the subject of marriage could come up. *************************** TAURUS (APR 20 - MAY 20): Today you and the other members of your household might discuss the possibility of making some changes, Taurus. This could involve some redecorating or remodeling or even something as mundane as a thorough cleaning. *************************** GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN 20): Today you might feel the urge to write, Gemini. This could involve nothing more than a lengthy letter or email to a friend, but it could also be creative work, such as a novel, essay, screenplay, or poem. *************************** CANCER (JUN 21 - JUL 22): Paperwork involving money needs to be executed today, Cancer. It could be a settlement, new commission, or bonus of some kind. This is likely to be a joyous occasion because money is coming your way, even though the paperwork itself might be a drag. *************************** LEO (JUL 23 - AUG 22): Today your mind should be especially quick and penetrating, Leo. You could decide to tackle some in-depth research that you've been considering doing for a while on a subject that fascinates you. ************************ VIRGO (AUG23 - SEP22): You always tend to have good powers of concentration, Pisces, but today you're more focused than usual, probably on a project that means a lot to you. This could be job related, it might involve helping a friend, or it may just be a personal project.
LIBRA (SEP 23 - OCT 22): Today you might decide to attend a group activity that is primarily concerned with an intellectual, philosophical, or spiritual interest of yours, Libra. *************************** SCORPIO (OCT 23 - NOV 21): A public figure, perhaps an author, might capture your interest in some way today, Scorpio. This person could have a lot to say that appeals to you on a number of different levels. *************************** SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 DEC 21): Today you might attend a party or group activity that puts you in touch with some interesting people from faraway places, Sagittarius. *************************** CAPRICORN (DEC 22 JAN 19): Some big upheaval in your career could take you by surprise, Capricorn, but it's apt to make a very positive difference to you. Your public standing and income could both skyrocket. Legal papers might be involved in some way.
*************************** AQUARIUS (JAN 20 FEB 18): A social event could bring you into contact with a very intense, fascinating person in an intriguing profession, Aquarius. You could find him or her very charming and sexy. *************************** PISCES (FEB 19 - MAR 20): You always tend to have good powers of concentration, Pisces, but today you're more focused than usual, probably on a project that means a lot to you. This could be job related, it might involve helping a friend, or it may just be a personal project. Whatever it is, you should accomplish a lot today.
ESPNcricinfo - On a green Abu Dhabi pitch that had plenty of bounce, Kolkata cruised to a big win over defending champions Mumbai in the opening game of the season. The biggest difference was the impact made by the teams’ overseas players: Lasith Malinga was the only one who delivered for Mumbai, but for Kolkata Jacques Kallis set up the innings with a 72, Morne Morkel squeezed the chase with a burst of 2-0-2-0 at the start of the innings, and Sunil Narine scalped four as he became the quickest bowler to 50 wickets in the tournament. Kolkata, on choosing to bat, began poorly with their captain Gautam Gambhir scratching around for a eightball duck that was ended by a pinpoint Malinga yorker. Manish Pandey, whose most famous feat remains his breakthrough century in the 2009 season, grabbed his chance at No. 3, and put on a 131-run stand with Kallis. It was slow going early on, with only four fours and a six in the first 10 overs. Kallis has regularly faced questions over the pacing of his innings in Twenty20s, and when he was 34 off 31 in the 14th over, the murmurs were at their loudest, especially as Kolkata had a bunch of hitters waiting for their chance. On the next delivery, Malinga put down a sitter off Kallis at short fine leg. It prompted a series of big hits from Kallis. He ransacked 37 off his next 13 deliveries, including two sixes and a four off a Pragyan Ojha over. Pandey, who hasn’t quite lived up to the Twenty20 reputation earned by that out-
of-the-blue knock, also quickened his pace after getting to his half-century, even slugging a Malinga slower ball for six. After a couple of seasons in which he has struggled to hold down a spot in the XI, this innings should give him a bit of a run in the side. After his dismissal, Malinga struck twice in his final over, before Suryakumar Yadav played a couple of innovative strokes to lift Kolkata to 163. The last time Morkel played an official T20, he was taken for 50 runs in three overs. He was up against Michael Hussey, the highest run-getter of the previous season. Morkel exploited the bounce in the pitch to drain away any momentum the chase could gather, and Hussey had one of his worst outings as he pottered around for 13-ball 3 before falling to
Narine. Ambati Rayudu and Rohit Sharma, two of the stalwarts of Mumbai over the years, tried to up the scoring but against an attack that didn’t give away much on a surface where the ball wasn’t quite coming on, the asking rate kept on increasing. They put on 61 off 45 deliveries, but when Rohit perished to a tumbling Kallis catch off Morkel in the 16th over, the game was virtually over. Mumbai needed 63 off 28, but their big-hitting allrounders, Kieron Pollard and Corey Anderson, had a horrid time against the guile of Narine, who ended with figures of 4 for 20 to ensure a resounding win for Kolkata. Scores: Kolkata 163 for 5 (Kallis 72, Pandey 64, Malinga 4-23) beat Mumbai 122 for 7 (Narine 4-20) by 41 runs.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 17, 2014
Junior Carifta Games team leaves today
Junior Carifta Presser: caption: President of the AAG Aubrey Hudson (centre) flanked by Head Coach Sham Johnny (on his immediate left), Kade Pearce (left), Jason Yaw (right) and Kevin Abbensetts. A strong 9-member contingent is expected to depart these shores this morning to participate in the Junior Carifta Games scheduled to be staged in Martinique from April 19-21. Yesterday the Athletic Association of Guyana held a Press Briefing at Olympic House where the media was apprised of the team’s preparations and the Body’s expectations about the team’s performance. Present at the Meeting were President of the AAG Aubrey Hudson, VicePresident Gavin Hope, Head Coach Sham Johnny and
athletes Jason Yaw, Kevin Abbensetts and Kade Pearce. Hudson in his remarks stated that the team is leaving on a high note, adding that much is expected from them. Hudson disclosed that he has gotten the assurance constantly from the athletes that they are ready to make Guyana proud and judging from what Head Coach Johnny has told him he is optimistic that they will return with hardware. Johnny in his presentation said that he was extremely pleased with the selection of field athletes
since it served to reflect a new dispensation within the AAG which is to include all those who’ve qualified providing the funding is available. He said he expects the team to do even better than last year. All the athletes expressed confidence of doing well. The full team is: Manager: Mayfield TaylorTrim Head Coach : Sham Johnny Cassey George Female Under 18 1500M, Open 3000M, Under 18 4 X 400M Natricia Hooper Female
Under 18 Triple Jump, Under 18 4 X 400M Jevina Sampson Female Under 18 400M, 200M, Under 18 4 X 400M Avon Samuels Female Under 18 400M, 200M, Under 18 4 X 400M Jason Yaw Male Under 18 200M, 400M Kevin Abbensetts Male Under 20 100M, 200M Kade Pearce Male Under 20, High Jump, Triple Jump Kadecia Baird Female Under 20 200M, 400M Brenessa Thompson Under 20 100M, 200M
USA ‘ready to play’ to win World Cup Washington (AFP) America is heading to Brazil “ready to play” in the 2014 World Cup, and Vice President Joe Biden will be leading the cheers for the US to bring home the coveted trophy for the first time. “When it comes to soccer, America is coming on,” Biden assured Monday’s audience at the State Department, where the 2014 World Cup trophy made its first stop in the United States as part of a global tour before heading later to Brazil. “It’s not historically been our game... but 25 million people in the United States play soccer, 80 percent of them are young people who will be players and fans for years to come,” Biden said. “The world should know, we’re coming ready to play.” With only nine weeks remaining before the World Cup kicks off in Brazil, coach Jurgen Klinsmann’s United States currently stands 13 in FIFA’s rankings. The White House announced that Biden
US Vice President Joe Biden (L) and US Secretary of State John Kerry (R) look to the crowd after unveiling the FIFA World Cup Trophy on April 14, 2014, during a ceremony at the US Department of State in Washington, DC (AFP Photo/Paul J. Richards) would travel to Brazil in June to attend the World Cup, saying he would attend a match by the US side. World Cup fever was “like a jolt of electricity that’s felt all around the world,” Biden said. And he thanked the tour organizers for “bringing the
World Cup trophy to the United States, and my expectation and hope is that it will come back soon in the hands of our players, rather than being delivered by someone else.” He was joined at the ceremony by Secretary of State John Kerry and former US national team members Cobi Jones and Julie Foudy, who are both sports envoys for the State Department. “Athletes can be some of our finest ambassadors,” Kerry said, hailing their part in past “diplomatic breakthroughs.”
“All you need is a ball, and you go out and play. And it’s remarkable how it captures the imaginations of young people everywhere,” Biden said. But he acknowledged that the US, drawn against Germany, Portugal and Ghana, faced a daunting fight to advance out of their World Cup group and forward in the competition. “We have a strong squad, and strong spirit,” Kerry assured, promising that if Brazil and the US face off against each other, “we will both be rooting to bring the cup back to our hemisphere.”
Official Points Standings after Round 7 of Regional 4-Day St. John’s, Antigua – Following are the Official Points Standings after the seventh and final round of preliminary matches in the Regional 4-Day Tournament ended on Monday. Abbreviations: Pts-total points, M-matches, W-won, L-lost, D-drawn, T-tied, NR-no result, Bat-batting points, Bowl-bowling points NOTE: 1. Barbados have been crowned the Regional 4-Day league champions, retaining the title they won last year, and will receive the WICB President’s Trophy. It is Barbados’ 22nd regional firstclass title. 2. Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Windward Islands and Jamaica have qualified for the semi-finals (see match schedule below) and will contest the Regional 4-Day Final Challenge for the Headley/Weekes Trophy. POINTS SYSTEM Scoring of Points – As below plus any points under the bonus points system Completed match Outright win 12 + batting + bowling points Tied match - 6 points each team + batting + bowling points Incomplete match - No
outright winner 3 points each team + batting + bowling points Abandoned match - In the event of a match being abandoned without any play having taken place 1 point each Abandoned match due to dangerous pitch - Home Team 0, Visiting Team 12 Referee awarding match Team Awarded Match 12, Other Team 0 Bonus points awarded only for performances in the first 110 overs of each team’s first innings only and retained whatever the result of the match. A maximum of five batting points will be awarded based on runs scored by each team as follows: 200 to 249 runs – 1 point 250 to 299 runs – 2 points 300 to 349 runs – 3 points 350 to 399 runs – 4 points 400 runs or over – 5 points A maximum of three bowling points will be awarded based on wickets taken by each team as follows: 3 to 5 wickets taken – 1 point 6 to 8 wickets taken – 2 points 9 to 10 wickets taken – 3 points
Trinidad already... From page 35 teams’ last games before they enter the World Cup so you have to have realistic expectations and approach. “As far as I am concerned, the players have to understand that they are going into these games purely as a measurement of where we are at and where we need to be if you are going to play on the world stage.” The Trinidadians have not played since November of last year, when it defeated Jamaica twice in the span of five days without conceding a goal. Facing Argentina on its home turf, though, poses an entirely different set of challenges. “Arguably, you are going to play one of the favorites (Argentina) to win
the World Cup, which in itself, playing them at home is a very comfortable situation for them and an uncomfortable situation for us,” Hart noted. “But I think that is a healthy situation because as we build for the future, you have a potential scenario of qualification that you have to play a set amount of games away from home.” With the actual squad not expected to be chosen until late May, Hart is well aware that preparation for the fixtures would be crucial. Trinidad, which advanced to the quarterfinals of last year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup, is currently the number one ranked team in the Caribbean Football Union and is 76th in the FIFA rankings.
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
Dorado Speed SC is GASA Inter Club champs Dorado Speed Swim Club won the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) inter club championship which ended on Sunday last at the National Aquatic Centre, Lilliendaal, East Coast Demerara. Dorado SSC gained 620 points while Dolphin finished second on 299, Silver Shark placed third on 155 and Orca finished third on 78. Dorado SSC captured 73 medals including 37 gold, 24 silver and 12 bronze. Dolphin finished with 31 medals which consisted of 10 gold, 12 silver and 9 bronze. Silver Shark gained 20 medals (8 gold, 7silver, 5 bronze) and Orca got 7 medals (5 gold, 1 silver, I bronze). Aleka Persaud of Orca Swim Speed Club won the Girls 8 and under 50 LC meter Backstroke in 51.63 seconds, Antonia Dey of Silver Shark placed second in 59.63 followed by Alisha Rambaran in 1:02.70. Donna Carter of Dorado grabbed the first podium spot in the girls 9-10 50 m LC backstroke in 49.82 seconds, Danielle George of Silver Shark placed second in 50.02 and Lian Winter of Dorado took third slot in 55.03. The girls 11-12 50m LC backstroke was taken by Kentia Mahaica of Dolphin in 44.97. Noel Raekwon of Dorado took the boys 8 and under 50m LC backstroke in 42.67, Paul Mahaica and Lajaun Munroe of Dolphin finished second and third in 51.90 and 53.13 respectively. Sekhel Tzedaq of Dolphin grabbed
the boys 9-10 50m LC backstroke in 39.59, followed by Leon Seaton of Silver Shark in 41.70 and Joshua Isadore of Dorado Speed in 1:11.56. Hussain Antonio and Alex Winter of Dorado took first and second place in the boys 11-12 50 m LC backstroke in 42.59 and 51.76 respectively. Soroya Simmons of Dorado won the girls 15 and over 50 LC backstroke in a time of 34.97 seconds. Her club mate Brittany van Lange placed second in 35.53 while Onika George of Silver Shark ended third in 34.48. Daniel Scott of Dorado took the boys 13-14 50 m backstroke in 40.72. Joseph Seguina of Dolphin carted off the boys 15 and over 50 LC m backstroke in 34.31. Omar Adams of Dorado placed second in 35.63 followed by Andrew Fowler of Dolphin. Aleka Persaud was again in winners’ lane in the girls 8 and under 100m freestyle in 1:36.92. Donna Carter of Dorado won the girls 9-10 1000 m freestyle in 1:40.24. The girls 11-12 100 m freestyle was taken by Kenita Mahaica in 1:32.66. Noel Raekwon overpowered his rivals to cop the boys 8 and under 100m freestyle in 1:24.34. The boys 9-10 100m freestyle was won by Leon Seaton in 1:18.36 while Antonio Hussein of Dorado grabbed the Boys 11-12 100m freestyle event in 1:17.56. van Lange took gold in the girls 15 and over 100m freestyle in 1:04.22, Simmons (1:06.09) took second spot and Jamila Sanmoogan of Dolphin (1:08.78) third. Joseph De
Nobrega of Dorado claimed the boys 13-14 100m freestyle in 1:02.35, his team mates Dominic Skeete (1:15.75) and Daniele Scott (1:17.24) placed second and third in that order. The boys 15 and over 100 m freestyle was won by Hannibal Gaskin of Dorado Speed in 59.79, Omar Adams took second spot in 1:01.36 and Joseph Seguina third in 1:02.60. Raekwon captured the boys 8 and under 50 m butterfly in 43.26, Seaton took the boys 9-10 50m butterfly in 40.26 and van Lange grabbed the girls 15 and over 50m freestyle in 32.87. The boys 13-14 50m butterfly was taken by Joseph De Nobrega in 31.45 while Hannibal Gaskin won the boys 15 and over 50m butterfly. Soroya Simmons bagged the girls 15 and over 200 m backstroke, Gaskin undone his rivals to take the boys 15 and over 100m butterfly in 1:05.18 and club mate Lain Winter pocketed gold in the girls 9-10 50 m breaststroke in 53.38. Joshua Isadore of Dorado grabbed first place in the boys 9-10 50 m freestyle while Nathon Hackett of Silver Shark won the boys 1112 50 m freestyle in 30. 38. van Lange continued her good showing with victory in the girls 15 and over 50 m freestyle in 28.65 followed by Onika George in 29.90 and Jamila Sanmoogan in 30.05. Dylan Nurse of Dorado took the honours in the boys 13-14 50 m freestyle in 28.50, Joseph De Nobrega (28.91) and Daniel Scott (32.66) third. Adams won the boys 15 and over 50 m freestyle in 26.65.
Berbice Cricket Board congratulates Devindra Bishoo “The Berbice Cricket Board takes this opportunity to congratulate leg spinner Devendra Bishoo for etching his name in the record books for his outstanding bowling figures in the last round of the West Indies Cricket Board Regional four day cricket competition against Trinidad and Tobago,” the BCB said in a release. “First, he took 9 wickets in the first innings and returned to take 6 in the second innings to end with 15 wickets in the game,” the release noted. In an invited comment, Anil Beharry, first Vice President of the Board, said that despite Guyana’s poor performance this year, he is very pleased with the performance of Berbician
Bishoo. He said the Board is confident that Bishoo can return to the West Indies sooner than later. He added that when Bishoo was dropped for the penultimate game, he knew that he would have returned with a bang. Bishoo is known to be a determined, hard-working, disciplined and talented cricketer. Beharry said he still can’t understand how Guyana performed so badly, taking into consideration that this team is one of the best we can put together over the years. He called for a total overhaul of Guyana’s cricket if we are to return to the top. “It is very painful to see how poorly we performed match after match,” he stated. Beharry questioned some of
the players’ commitment as well but with Bishoo’s outstanding bowling in the last match in particular, there is still hope. He asked for patience for the younger players that played and with proper nurturing, they will deliver in the future. The cupboard is not empty, Beharry added; the young Rajendra Chandrika, Hemraj, Ronsford Beaton, Vishaul Singh, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Gudakesh Motie, Akshay Homraj, Raun Johnson and Shimron Hetmyer, among others, are very talented. He once again congratulated Bishoo and wished him well in the future. He challenged the younger players to try and emulate Bishoo.
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GCA/Brain Street U-15 tournament
GYO beat Everest by 6 wkts, TSC and DCC ‘B’ Draw By Zaheer Mohamed Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) defeated Everest Cricket Club by six wickets while Transport Sports Club (TSC) and Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) B played to a draw when the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Brain Street U-15 limited overs tournament continued yesterday with two matches. At Everest Cricket Club, the host were inserted by GYO and were bowled out for 76 in 30 overs after heavy overnight and early morning showers delayed the start of play by two hours which caused a reduction in the overs. Kishan Bhola and Gansham Premchand (02) added 24 for the opening partnership, but when Premchand was caught off Brandon Matthews and Bhola departed for 12, the rest of the batting, with the exception of skipper Zahir Bristol, folded easily. Bristol top scored with 19 as leg spinner Navindra Persaud who looped the ball nicely grabbed 3-17 and pacer Namit Chatoorang 2-15. In reply, Chandra Mohan and Navindra Persaud put their team on course with an opening stand of 52. Persaud played a number of handsome off drives before he was bowled by Kishan Bhola for 14. Mohan stroked five fours in his top score of 35 before he was removed by Bristol who also accounted for Mahendra Dindyal (04). Denesh Alli was run out without scoring, but GYO reached their target fairly comfortable, ending on 79-4
Hinds slams century
Navindra Persaud (left) and Chandra Mohan in 14.2 overs. Bristol finished with 2-37 and Bhola 1-6. At GYO, TSC posted 2306, batting first after their allocation of overs was reduced to 36 due to rain. Adrian Hinds slammed 116 and Mark Baptiste scored 40 while Mark Ramsammy chipped in with 18. Hinds shared in a third wicket stand of 149 with Baptiste after TSC were reduced to 2-2. Following Baptiste dismissal, LBW to Anthony Roopnarine, Hinds and Ramsammy put together 50 for the fifth wicket before the latter was removed by Qumar Torrington. Hinds who reached the boundary thirteen times and cleared it on three occasions was the last batsman to be dismissed LBW to Torrington. Torrington claimed 2-20 and Roopnarine 1-41. DCC B were never in the hunt and were restricted for
Adrian Hinds 73-7 off their allotted 26 overs in reply. Shane Grant scored 16 and Roopnarine 11, the pair added 28 for the opening stand. Baptiste was the pick of the bowlers with 3-20 while Joel Spooner, Colin Barlow and Toney Adjodah had one each. The competition continues today.
Trinidad already thinking about Argentina, Iran
Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago - Trinidad & Tobago head coach Stephen Hart has already trained his sights on international friendlies against Word Cup-bound teams Argentina and Iran on June 4 and June 8, respectively. Despite the magnitude of the task facing the Soca Warriors, Hart believes the two games present a wonderful opportunity for the national side top gauge its development. “We are going into games against two international teams that are going to be fully prepared for the World Cup,” said Hart. “It’s both (Continued on page 34)
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Kaieteur News
NDC/Regal SSC T/20 cricket- Wakenaam
Thursday April 17, 2014
MT United beat Malvern SC
Sans Souci, SS Jaguars are latest winners Sans Souci and Sans Souci Jaguars recorded victories when the Wakenaam Neighbourhood Democratic Council/ Regal Stationery and Computer Centre T/20 tournament which continued on Sunday last. At the Wakenaam Community Centre ground, Sans Souci Jaguars defeated Good Success by three runs in the 09:30h fixture. The Jaguars batted first and scored 112 all out in 18 overs. Satrohan Shiwnandan led with 30 (3x6), Moin Khan
made 24 and Nokta Moses 23. Vickram Ramnairne claimed 325, Nazeer Mohamed 2-6, Imran Khan 2-18 and Chandrika Ragnauth 2-37. Good Success replied with 109-7 18 overs. Charles Benjamin scored 39 (5x4,1x6) and Mohamed 28 (1x4,1x6); Olwin Paton snared 2-14 and Siddiq Mohamed 2-28. Sans Souci got the better of Noitgedacht by 22 runs in the second encounter. Sans Souci took first strike and posted 177-8 in 18 overs. Oyono Sampson stroked 85,
Gurnauth Khemraj 26 and Heera Sukram 19. Omal Bacon picked up 2-18 and Kemo Paul 2-22. Noitgedacht responded with 155-6 in 18 overs. Carva Hinds was their leading batsman with 46 while Paul made 34. Khemraj captured 2-16 and Devon Rambaran 2-24. Both games were reduced to 18 overs due to rain. Sans Souci Jaguars will play Sans Souci and Zeelandia will face Maria’s Pleasure in the semi finals on April 27 at the said venue.
Trophy Stall cricket –School of the Nations
Grade 4C overcome Grade 6A in Primary final
MT United-The victorious MT United team. Host Malvern Sports Club (MSC) went down to MT United (MTU) from Mon Repos in a best of three ten overs Tapeball cricket competition played at the West Demerara Market Tarmac recently. In the opening game MSC won the toss and inserted
MTU who made 94-6, with Haymant Singh scoring 28 and Narine Rampersaud 24. Bowling for the host Christopher Williams and Mark Smyth grabbed two wickets each. MSC in reply were restricted to 87-9, Smyth made 23; Raghunauth Raghoo 3-11
and Alvin Persaud 3-12. In the second encounter, MSC batted first and scored 80-8. Mark Smyth scored 37 and Sanjay Coonauth 15. Wasim Baljit picked up 4-6. MTU responded with 847. Baljit led with 32 not out. Anthony Kwang snared 4 – 10.
Carmichael looking forward to stint with Hadleigh and Thunderly CC
Trophy stall school cricket – Teachers and outstanding performers display their trophies following the presentation. Grade 4C defeated Grade 6A by nine runs to win the final in the Primary division of the School of the Nations inter class cricket competition sponsored by Trophy Stall which w a s p l a y e d r e c e n t l y. Grade 4C batted first and made 58 off their allotted 10 overs. Zachary Jodah scored 48 not out. Grade 6 A replied with 39 in 10 overs. In the secondary final, Form three F overcame Form four B. Raymond Perez received the prize for scoring the most runs, 71 not out and
Daunita Jandoo collected the best bowler award after taking 4-3. Inter House Cricket was only played at the Secondary level where the team was made up of six males and five females. Arawak overcame Carib in the final. Raymond Perez was rewarded for scoring 94, while Sasha Murray received the best bowler trophy with 2-21. P e r e z (39), Daniel Sears (1-2), Aaron Evans (80) collected prizes for the o u t s t a n d i n g performances in the semi finals. Also receiving prizes for performing
creditably were Joshua Kissoon (30 runs), Mya Caesar (2 wickets for 8 runs), Aaron Evans (33*), Marie Taylor (3-5), David Bisson (62), Samuel Booker (3-0), Javier Rodrigues (25) Emmanuel Major (5-3), Zachary Jodah (56), Rebekah Gharbaran (1-2), Sasha Murray (24), Brian Jagmohan (4-2), Jaina Nash (25), Macy Morgan (2-9), Kris Raiawan (08), Devin Shvray (3-0), Raymond Perez (37) and Sir Khan (3-12). Staff of the school thanked Trophy Stall for their timely donation.
Malteenoes Sports Club all rounder Kellon Carmichael recently told Kaieteur Sport that he is looking forward to his stint with Hadleigh and Thunderly Cricket Club in Essex, England. Carmichael departed Guyana on Tuesday last for a five month spell with the club where he will play in Essex county division one competitions. Carmichael feels that it will be a good experience. “This is the first time I will be playing there and I am looking forward to the challenges which should help to improve my game”, he added. Carmichael stated that his aim is to help the club be successful adding that he will have to adapt to the conditions as quickly as possible. He informed that he wants to get into the Guyana team in the near future.
Kellon Carmichael
Defence cops Narine dominoes title in Wakenaam Defence marked 66 games to win the final of the Ganeshram Narine dominoes competition played on Sunday last at Amit Ramnarine residence in Good Success, Wakenaam. Vijay Persaud made the maximum 18 games, while Mohamed Zafrul supported with 14 for the winners. WE 5 placed second with 58 games, while Explorer came third with 57. Mohamed Kalam and Shafdar Alli chalked 13 apiece for the runner up team, while Khalid Zaman scored the maximum 18 and Ganeshram Narine 12 for Explorer. Defence received a trophy and $7,000, while WE 5 and Explorer collected trophies for their efforts. Vijay Persaud was given the man of the match award in the final.
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 37
Guyana Cup Fever horse race meet in limbo When all seems well in the horse racing fraternity the fate of the lucrative Guyana Cup Fever Horserace meet 2014, which is slated for Sunday 20th April at the Port Mourant Turf Club, hangs in the balance with an injunction being granted in the High Court to stop the event. The injunction which was sought by popular horse owner Dennis DeRoop of the Simple Royal Stable, owner of champion horse Score Even, was granted by Justice Sandra Kurtzious in the Berbice High Court on Tuesday 15th April. DeRoop of Lot 33, Kilmarnock Village, Corentyne, Berbice stated in the affidavit that he is a Rice and Cattle Farmer. Through his lawyers Messrs. Adrian Anamayah, and or Ian Anamayah Attorneys-at-law whose place of business is at Lot 7-7 Cheddi Jagan Street, New Amsterdam, Berbice, was granted the injunction against the Port Mourant Turf Club and whose representatives have been named as Krishna Persaud Jagdeo and Chattergoon Ramnauth, individually and as the Secretary of the Port Mourant Turf Club. He is seeking an injunction restraining the defendants by themselves, their servants and agents from holding the Guyana Cup Fever Horse Race Meeting on the date mentioned pending the hearing and determination of the matter. He is also seeking a mandatory injunction compelling on the
Injunction filed to stop meeting defendants to include his horse Score’s Even, in the Guyana Cup Fever Horse Race Meeting set for the mentioned date. In that he is asking the court that the exclusion of his horse, Score’s Even from the Guyana Cup Fever Horse Race Meeting is unlawful and contrary to the rules governing horse racing in Guyana. Giving details of his horse, DeRoop stated that he is the owner and trainer of Score’s Even which is a seven year old Roan Grey Gelding (Male) imported from Miami, Florida, United States of America, in 2012. The animal he said is duly registered in Guyana with the Guyana Horse Racing Authority. It has won 9 out of the 17 races it has taken part in Guyana. It is the top race horse in Guyana and because of its recent performance it is now classified in the “A1” category by the Guyana Horse Racing Authority. He mentioned that he is a registered member of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority and is one of four horse owners and trainers representative. He mentioned that the Guyana Horse Racing Authority sanctions all horse racing in Guyana. “My horse has been racing and participating at all the race tracks/clubs in Guyana including the Port Mourant Turf Club since it was brought to Guyana,” DeRoop said. He said that the
defendants’ purposes to hold the Annual Guyana Cup Fever race on the date mentioned above. The race is a national event open to all horses. In the past the feature event at all race tracks/clubs has always been the A class and lower race. This race is open to all horses. “This is the only race that my horse can enter and participate in” he informed. Score’s Even because of its classification as an A1 horse is restricted from racing in any other race. Score’s Even, participated in Guyana Cup Fever 2013, in the A class and lower race and won the race convincingly. He mentioned that the defendants have released a provisional programme for the event which omits the A1 class and lower race, a clear indication that his horse cannot participate. DeRoop in is affidavit to the court stated that he subsequently made contact with the President of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority, Mr. Vic Oudit. A meeting was held on the 27th day of March which was attended by all of the major horse owners. The defendants were also present. The owners also signed a letter confirming their willingness to compete against Score’s Even. A t t h a t m e e t i n g M r. Oudit i n f o rmed the defendants that the A class and lower class race has to be included in the programme
and Score’s Even must be allowed to race and that to do otherwise would be a violation of the racing rules. DeRoop in his affidavit stated that at the meeting the defendants attempted to mislead the President of the GHRA by telling him that other horse owners and trainers are not willing to participate and compete against Score’s Even. DeRoop went on to state th a t a t t h e s a i d meeting he indicated that he was prepared to have Score’s Even, race with more than its “allotted weight” to ensure that the other horses are not at a disadvantage. He stated in his affidavit that he has invested a considerable amount of his personal resources and finances in training, grooming, feeding his champion horse over the last three (3) months in preparation for the Guyana Cup Fever Race and was disappointed when he l e a rnt that it could not participate. He said that horse racing in Guyana is governed by the Demerara Turf Club Rules of Racing 1959. All clubs and race tracks including the Port Mourant Turf Club adhere to and follow the rules. In his view the defendants have every intention of excluding his horse Score’s Even, from the Guyana Cup Fever 2014 races meet. He said that if he is not allowed to participate he will suffer irreparable loss and damages for which he cannot be adequately compensated.
Trophy Stall Softball Cricket tournament finals set for April 26 It is Floodlights vs Success Masters, We l l w o m a n v s Tr o p h y Stall Angels, while Regal a n d Wo l f Wa r r i o r s a r e already through as the finalists have been decided for the Trophy Stall Softball cricket tournament following action last weekend. Results of semi-final matches in the Masters category (40 years and over) played last Saturday evening at DCC ground: Success Masters crushed Industry Super Kings. Success made 188 for 7 off 20 overs. Sahadeo Budhu 68 and Kishore Mohabir 41 were on target. Bowling for Industry, P. Singh took 3 for 36. Industry Super Kings
were bowled out for 89, with Danny Gangadin making 26. Success main destroyers were K. M o h a b i r, 3 f o r 9 , a n d Mohan 3 for 12. Floodlights vs Park Rangers: Park Rangers posted a challenging 190 for 5 off 20 overs. Eon Abel made a blistering 66, Shawn Massiah supported with 60. Clyde Canterberry took 2 for 41, bowling for Floodlights. Floodlights did excellent to overhaul the total, losing only 3 wickets with 3 balls to spare. John Sumair made a stroke filled undefeated 58 (8x6), supported by Lalta Gainda 44 and a well calculated undefeated 44 by Wayne Jones.
In the Female semifinals, Wellwoman defeated Karibee Girls by 34 runs. Wellwoman batting first, made 114 for 7 off 10 overs. Haseena Mohamed 40, Latoya Smith and Amanda Bobsemple supported with 17 each. Karibee Girls were restricted to 80 for 4 off 10 overs. Erva Giddings made 33, Tenesia Leonard 24. In the second semifinal, Trophy Stall Angels beat 4R Lioness by 33 runs. Trophy Stall made 115 for 4 off 10 overs. June Ogle made 33, Roxanne Dominick 28 and Kavita Ya d r a m 2 0 w e r e t h e principal scorers. 4R Lioness were restricted to 82 for 7 off 10 overs. Shian Goodluck was the top
scorer with 11 runs. Earlier in a preliminary round, 4R Lioness defeated Regal Champs by 30 runs. 4R Lioness made 109 for 5 off 10 overs. Timika Wilson top scored with 44. Regal Champs replied with 96 for 8 off 10 overs. The 3 Finals are set for Saturday April 26, starting at 2:00pm at the DCC Ground in Queenstown. Keen competition is expected as is the norm among these teams and fans are encouraged to come out and support. The latter games will be played under lights which have been installed at the venue compliments of the Floodlights Softball Cricket Association and other donors.
USA based former East Bank player donates to EBFA
Mr. Shubert Bassoo (left) hands over the balls and bag to EBFA President, Wayne Francois. A former East Bank footballer who is now based in the United States, Shubert Bassoo on Sunday last donated six footballs and a ball bag to the East Bank Football Association. Bassoo, formally of Craig village who was one of the persons who played an integral role in the formation of the Grove/Craig football team, said that he was impressed with the level of activity that is currently taking place in the EBFA thus the reason for the donation. The items were handed over to EBFA President Wayne Francois on Sunday
last during the Stag Beer division-one league action at the Grove Playfield. Bassoo noted that he would continue to support the EBFA and would have also assisted the Grove Hi Tech FC in the past. “I am really happy to see the teams are still being kept together at a competitive level and the fact that so many youngsters are involved. This little donation I hope will go a long way in assisting the continued development of the game.” Francois extended gratitude on behalf of the EBFA to Bassoo for the kind gesture.
‘Champion of Champions’ cricket finals to light up Essequibo Coast Easter Sunday The 2nd annual Virgins Promotions ‘Champions of Champions’ softball cricket tournament quarterfinals, semis and finals are scheduled to take place on Easter Sunday, 20th of April beginning at 9:00am. The location is the scenic Golden Fleece and Perseverance beaches where the teams are expected to match blows. The competition which started on the 6th April will conclude this weekend with four rounds of matches. The first round saw 18 male teams and four female teams from the Essequibo Coast participating. Teams are competing for over three hundred thousand dollars with the first place male team carting away $150,000, second place $60,000, while the female winners will walk away with $40,000. Several other prizes are arranged for teams such as free beverages, clothing and novelties. The fixture this weekend will see Richmond Youths vs. Airy-Hall; Mainstay Aftershocks vs. R1, Die Hard vs Endeavor, Smith’s11vs.Adventure, while El Dorado has drawn the Bye. Beverage giant, Banks DIH Ltd, is the main sponsor, along with Virgin Promotions.
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COP Inter-Division t20 cricket
HQ beat ‘B’ division, ‘E’ get walkover from ‘C’ The Commissioner of Police (COP) Inter Division t20 Cricket Competition, sponsored by C. Persaud Dental Clinic and Laboratory, continued yesterday with ‘E’ division getting a walk-over from ‘C’ division at the Guyana defence Force ground and Headquarters beating ‘B’ division by seven wickets at Eve Leary. With dark ominous clouds hovering overhead and strong winds blowing, the game was reduced to a 12over per-side-affair and Headquarters rattled up 81-5 when their overs expired on the heavy outfield. Police first division
Troy Benn batsman Troy Benn scored a confident 31 and got support
from Sheldon Agard who chipped in with 17. Brentnol Woolford took 28 for ‘B’ division who reached 82-3 with six balls to spare. Philburg Wilburg topscored with an accomplished 51 decorated with four fours and three sixes. He got good support from Kevin Griffith who made 12 as former National under-19 fast bowler Seon Daniels took 2-6 from his allotted three overs. Today Officers come up against TSU at Eve Leary from 13:00hrs, while at GDF, ‘G’ division face off with ‘D’ division from 14:00 hrs. The competition continues on Saturday. (Sean Devers)
Regional Four day stats Players with double centuries plus five or more wickets in an innings in same match Statistician Charwayne Walker continues his look at regional cricket performances. He focuses attention on the players that were able to record double tons and capture five plus wickets in the same match in an innings. Since sponsored Regional first class cricket started in 1966 the only players that scored a double century and took more than five wickets in an innings in the same match are Sir Garfield Sobers, Geoffrey Greenidge and Roger Harper. Sir Garry took 6 for 56 from 23.1 overs and scored 204 vs British Guiana 1966 at the Kensington Oval. Barbados won that Shell Shield battle by an Innings and 15 runs. Scores: British Guiana first Innings 227 all out; Basil Butcher 99, Rohan Kanhai 69, Joseph Solomon 28. Bowling for Barbados skipper Garfield Sobers took 6 for 56 from 23.1 overs, Charlie Griffith 3 for 28. Barbados first Innings 559 for 9 declared, Garfield Sobers 204, Rawle Brancker 132, Peter Lashley 54 and Seymour Nurse 52. Bowling for British Guiana, Joseph Solomon took 4 for 46 from 13 overs, Rex Collymore 2 for 154 from 51 overs. British Guiana second innings 307 all out, Clive Lloyd 107, Joseph Solomon 70, Rohan Khanhai 43. Bowling for Barbados Charlie Griffith snared 4 for 49 from 15.2 overs, David Holford 2 for 53 and Tony Howard 2 for 56. The following year, 1967, Sobers’ compatriot Geoffrey Greenidge scored 205 and
Roger Harper
Sir Garfield Sobers
took 7 for 124 vs Jamaica at the Kensington oval. Result: Barbados won that Shell Shield encounter by 96 runs. Scores: Barbados first innings 521 for 8 declared; Geoffrey Greenidge 205, Rawle Brancker 135, skipper Gary Sobers 47. Bowling for Jamaica, A.B. Wellington took 3 for 108 from 19.3 overs, E.H.C Griffith 2 for 60 from 22 overs, R.A. Cohen 2 for 77. Jamaica’s first Innings 361 all out; F. Harvey 68, Easton Mc Morris 74, Renford Pinnock 62, Lester King 52, N. Hawkins 44. Bowling for Barbados, Geoffrey Greenidge took 7 for 124 from 29.2 overs. Barbados’ second innings, 160 for 4 declared, Conrad Hunte 80 not out, Seymour Nurse 50. Jamaica’s second innings 226 all out, Maurice Foster 81, Renford Pinnock 77, Easton Mc Morris 35. Bowling for Barbados, Tony Howard took 5 for 46 from 21
overs. Rawle Brancker 3 for 26 from 8 overs. Twenty eight years later Guyanese Roger Harper took 5 for 98 and scored 202 vs the Windward Islands at Bourda in 1995. Result: match drawn. Scores: Windward Islands first innings 414 all out, skipper Dawnley Joseph 131, Uzzah Pope 91, Rawl Lewis 53 not out, Alton Crafton 31. Bowling for Guyana; Roger Harper took 5 for 98 from 53.2 overs, Mahendra Nagamootoo 4 for 130 from 47 overs. Guyana’s first innings 479 all out, Roger Harper 202, Sudesh Dhaniram 79, Keith Semple 67, Nolan McKenzie 25, Kenneth Wong, 25. Bowling for Windward Islands Roy Marshall took 4 for 75 from 42 overs, Rawl Lewis 2 for 75 from 37.1 overs, Dennison Thomas 2 for 78 from 26 overs. Windward Islands second innings 10 without loss.
Thursday April 17, 2014
Board should give new selectors opportunity to start afresh Says veteran cricket commentator Reds Perreira By Sean Devers The current West Indies selection panel has had its term extended by two months but International cricket commentator Guyanese Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira feels the new selection panel, which will not begin their work until September, should have been given the opportunity to start afresh and pick the teams for the home series against New Zealand which starts on June 12 with the first Test in Jamaica. The current two-year term of the Clyde Butts-chaired panel would have expired at the end of this month but the short extension of the term of Butts, Courtney Browne and Robert Haynes, according to the WICB, was to allow for the appraisal system of the selectors to be completed. A packed schedule of travel and work in recent months had not allowed for the process to be completed. The WICB explained the extension was also to allow “for continuity in selections for both the West Indies men’s and women’s teams for the upcoming ICC World Twenty20 in September in Sri Lanka”. The WICB said a further decision on the future composition of the selection panel will be taken at the next meeting of the board of directors in September. But the 75-year-old Perreira feels the new panel should not have to drop players they did not pick for the Bangladesh series scheduled to commence on August 20 in Grenada with the first ODI. “It would be counterproductive for Butts and Company to pick the team for the New Zealand series and then the new committee picks the team for the Bangladesh
Reds Perreira
after the series would have started in August,” Perreira opined. “I understand the three selectors have all been renominated by their respective Boards but the WICB has done interviews with other people. Lockhart Sebastian, who was nominated twice by the Windward’s Board but has never gotten on, is one of those interviewed,” disclosed the veteran Broadcaster. Reds said the Butts selection committee has not done a good job and failed to bring on players. “They have not seen Jason Holder as a Test player and missed an opportunity to bring in (Miguel) Cummins after an outstanding ‘A’ team tour to India. Any forward thinking selection panel would have replaced the Injured (Kemar) Roach for the tour of India,” said Reds. The St Lucia based Perreira said after the disappointing series in India where they lost twice in two days, they had no forward
plans for changes for the New Zealand tour and sent the same team. “They should have looked at mainly the fast bowling department and applied well ahead of time for visas to enter New Zealand. In New Zealand conditions the ball swings and seams, yet we picked (Tino) Best and (Sheldon) Cotterell. Sunil Narine who took 6-21, was only picked because of the suspension of Shane Shillingford,” Perreira, who has commentated in 146 Tests, revealed. The commentator, who broadcasted his last Test in Antigua when New Zealand last came to the West Indies, feels the left-arm spinners Suleiman Benn or Niketa Miller should have been in the squad for the recent T20 series to further enhance our ability to take wickets which was left to Narine and Badree. “I am hearing Nehemiah Perry’s name is also in the mix while I believe Browne should be appointed the Chairman with two other new selectors” Reds concluded.
Scotiabank/Pepsi Schools Football
Berbice High hammers Vryman’s Erven 7-0 Defending champions Berbice High School (BHS) hammered the hapless Vryman’s Erven Secondary School (VESS) 7-0 to stay in contention when play in the Berbice leg of the Scotiabank/ Pepsi Schools Football Academy continued at the Esplanade Park in New Amsterdam recently. BHS, looking to qualify for the finals in Georgetown, were led by their diminutive captain Dereck Taylor with four goals, while the consistent Shamar Arendell booted home three. The BHS lads still
smarting from their surprised first round lost to arch rivals BEI have since bounced back to score their second convincing victory so far. They were at it from the first whistle and VESS after showing some initial fight soon flattered to deceive as they conceded a penalty in the 20th minute which was converted by Taylor. The score remained at 1-0 at half time. In the second half it was total dominance as the Taylor and Arendell show took over. Taylor was on target early in the second half and blasted home two more goals
including a penalty to account for his four strikes. Arendell for his part scored the third, fifth and sixth goals to account for his three as their hapless opponents had no answer to the assault. The win has pushed BHS to the top of the points table with six points, the same as BEI, however with a better goal average. Tutorial Academy Secondary (TASS), New Amsterdam Multilateral School (NAMS) and VESS are on three points each. Canje Secondary School (CSS) is still in the cellar without a point. (Samuel Whyte)
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur Sport raps new Regal Stationary & Computer Center presents TV to MSC Stationary and CEO of the store mputer Center of M a h e n d r a ‘ A n i l ’ GASA boss who is aiming SC oeRegal a f o r t S t r e e t Hardyal said when he yesterday w a s a p p r o a c h e d b y to leave indelible mark pCampbellville r e s e n t e d a 3 2 - i n c h Bevaun Butts for the Swimming in Guyana has over the years been around like the other sports but really lacking that energized punch to achieve and attain its true potential. Guyana has been participating in a number of meets at the Caribbean level and further afield but is yet to really establish itself as a potent force. It’s an uphill task to achieve given the many challenges facing not only swimming but sports across the board in the Land of Many Waters. Just a few months ago, Mr. Ivan Persaud, much more popular in the football fraternity took over the reins as President of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA). Kaieteur Sport took the opportunity to chat Persaud on his plans for the sport. Following is the interview. KS - What is your vision for the sport having taken over the reins back in January? IP - As President I will motivate the Executives of GASA. Mandate all affiliated clubs to provide an inspirational environment where all swimmers can learn and practice the values and qualities that will help them succeed in a healthy and safe manner and to be able to compete locally and internationally for Guyana, attaining the highest level of performance. KN - What are some of the challenging areas you have pinpointed so far and how do you intend to correct same? IP – There are so many challenges that we are faced with but let me highlight some of these so all will have an idea of what they are. Lack of enough qualified coaches and officials for training and competitions. Athletes’ education and guidance to break into the elite stage; insufficient pool time (more hours of training needed); lack of comprehensive land training (physical fitness and appropriate personal plans for swimmers); funding (sponsorship for the athletes and the association); application of scientific information and training methods. To help ourselves in order to be viable, we have planned a number of
Te l e v i s i o n s e t t o t h e Malteenoes S ports Club (MSC) in support of their fund raising drive to aid in the development of the Thomas Lands club. The presentation was done at Regal’s Seafort Street location by Te l e s h a O u s m a n t o M S C e x e c u t i v e Tr o y Lew is .
Ivan Persaud activities. In the months of July and August we have planned coaching and officials’ seminars as well as classroom psychology sessions for our top swimmers. Ever since January, we have implemented obligatory morning sessions and implementation of selection criteria for National team swimmers (90% of training sessions). Our Head Coaches have been implementing the National team training programme which includes physical fitness and gym work. We have been meeting with other stake holders especially the business community, NGO’S and well wishers for funding, equipment (stop watches, caps, goggles, t-shirts, track suits and training swim gear. GASA will be hosting fund raising activities, at least once per month. We are also actively incorporating the application of the science of the sport including medical checks, nutritional checks, motor quality testing, training plans, updated coaching methodologies and athletes profiling. KN - Finances have always been a major challenge for swimming let along the other sports in Guyana, what are your plans to ensure that corporate support is garnered for the sustainability of the sport? IP – This is always a challenging area indeed, but we nonetheless have to try our best since without the finances, we cannot achieve what we set out to do. We have already spoken with a number of entities for assistance but I believe that it would be premature to (Continued on page 31)
donation he readily agreed since as a former Malteenoes cricketer he was only too glad to assist his ‘old’ club. Speaking on behalf of MSC, Lewis said the club was grateful for the donation and informed that the fund raising venture will continue.
Regal Stationary & Computer Center representative Telesha Ousman makes the presentation to MSC members Troy Lewis and Bevaun Butts yesterday.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 17, 2014
Inter Ministry T10 Tapeball on Sunday - in honour of James Lewis’ retirement from Public Service after 34 years T h e N a t i o n a l Cultural Centre Tarmac will be buzzing with tapeball cricket on Sunday when eight government Ministries clash in a competition in honour of James Lewis who is retiring from the Public Service after some 34 years
of service. Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday afternoon acquiesced to Lewis’ request for sponsorship by presenting him with a trophy and several medals towards a successful competition.
Te a m s f r o m t h e Ministry of Home Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Culture Youth and Sport, Legal Affairs, Health, Finance, Public Service and Housing will all vie for top honors. Public Service
M i n i s t e r M s . J e n nifer Westford has also presented sponsorship to Lewis as well as the Local Government M i n i s t r y. O t h e r s a r e expected to come forward according to Lewis. Game time on Sunday is 10:00hrs.
MHA Sports Coordinator Mr. Ovid Glasgow DSM (left) hands over the trophy and medals to James Lewis.
High jumper Robinson latest Jamaican hit with ban Reuters - Jamaican high jumper Damar Robinson has been handed a one-year ban for doping in the latest blow to the country’s athletics program. The sanction was handed down by the chairman of the Jamaica Anti-doping Disciplinary Panel Kent Pantry following an in-camera hearing at the Jamaica Conference Centre. Robinson’s suspension comes days after three Jamaican Olympians, sprinters Asafa Powell and Sherone Simpson and discus thrower Allison Randall, received lengthy doping bans. Former 100 meters world record holder Powell was banned for 18 months by a Jamaican anti-doping disciplinary panel on Thursday after testing positive for a banned substance last year. The 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 Dec 20. Athens Olympics relay champion Simpson was suspended for 18 months
Damar Robinson after testing positive for the banned stimulant oxilofrine during last June’s trials. Randall was suspended for two years after she too failed a drugs test during the 2013 national trials. Robinson, a former Jamaican national junior representative who also competes in triple jump, was suspended for using a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). The ban for Robinson, who is currently studying in the United States, will be retroactive to June 16 2013 when he provided the positive sample at Jamaica’s national junior trials. The 20year-old will be eligible to compete again on June 17.
Thursday April 17, 2014
Kaieteur News
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GAPF Claude Charles Memorial, Intermediate and Masters fixed for June 22 Fitness Express on board again as major sponsor
Flashback! Category and overall winners from the 2013 Claude Charles Memorial Intermediate and Masters Championships. Just off the heels of a successful Novice and Junior championship, the executive of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) recently met and decided on a date for the Claude Charles Memorial Intermediate and Masters
Championships. The date decided on is Sunday June 22 at the George Walcott Lecture Theatre, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, East Coast Demerara. Registration will commence on May 2 and end on June 13. In keeping with
regional and international trends, no late registration would be permitted. Athletes interested in competing can contact any member of the GAPF; forms can also be uplifted at Basic Beauty Saloon, North Road. A registration fee of $1,000
would be charged for athletes who have not yet competed for the year. Gyms that have not yet had athletes compete for the year will also be required to pay an affiliation fee of $1,000 to the GAPF. Meanwhile, faithful corporate partner, Fitness Express has already
committed its support for this event according to the GAPF which described Manager/Owner Jamie Mc Donald as a long standing and reliable supporter of powerlifting in Guyana. The GAPF has also indicated that they have identified a team that
will represent Guyana at the Caribbean Powerlifting Championships set for St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands from July 8 – 13, next. More details on the composition of the team will be released shortly according to the federation.
Alinsworth wins MHA Stray Catchers King Dominoes Clauduin Alinsworth with the maximum 18 games won the Ministry of Home Affairs King Dominoes competition, sponsored by North American Life and Fire Insurance Company (NALICO). Playing at the Paradise Sports Club Meeting Room on Sunday last, Alinsworth was too good to handle, winning ahead of Motilall Ram who tallied 15 games; the third place was taken by Aubrey
Burrows who managed 13 games.Eight players started the tournament which saw defending champion Ulric Edwards knocked out early in the piece. Ministry of Home Affairs Sports Coordinator Mr. Ovid Glasgow DSM, who organised the competition, informed that this is the third year it is being held to aid in fostering a good relationship along sporting lines.
Glasgow praised the support of subject Minister Clement Rohee who he said has always been encouraging sports activities among staff members of the ministry. Gratitude was also extended to NALICO for providing a trophy for the champion. Sales representative Benson Gomes was on hand to hand over the trophy to Clauduin Alinsworth.
NALICO Sales Rep. Benson Gomes (center) presents the King Dominoes trophy to winner, Clauduin Alinsworth. At left if MHA Sport Coordinator Ovid Glasgow, DSM.
Kolkata open with thumping victory Sunil Narine was impressive for KKR in yesterday's opener.
P.33
Jacques Kallis hit 72, took an athletic catch and chipped in with three overs Š BCCI
Guyana Cup Fever horse race meet in limbo P.37
Injunction filed to stop meeting
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