Kaieteur News

Saturday Edition

Online readership yesterday 94,205

April 21, 2012 - Vol. 6 No. 15 - Price $80 kaieteurnews@yahoo.com Website:http://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

GPHC boss says he had $16 million in his head ... Pg3

$60 million shed devalues to $21 million

Govt. denies wasting taxpayers’ money Pg 13

on 'Fip' Motilall

…Benn says US$5.9M payment was “only for certified works done”

Psychiatric Hospital Administrator confronts allegations Pg 16

... patients were indeed eating out of peanut butter bottles

Bus driver given suspended sentence Pg 3

for whipping tout with belt

Henry Greene gone Pg 2

- four-month sex scandal brings down Police Commissioner

Page 02

Kaieteur News

Saturday April 21, 2012

Henry Greene gone - four-month sex scandal brings down Police Commissioner Embattled Police Commissioner Henry Greene has resigned. Greene offered to go into retirement yesterday via a letter to Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, according to a brief statement from the Office of the President.

“By letter dated April 19, 2012, addressed to Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, Mr. Henry Greene, DSM, has offered to retire as the Commissioner of Police of Guyana,” the statement said.

“His Excellency Donald Ramotar, President of the Republic of Guyana has accepted his offer with immediate effect,” it added.

A top Government

official had indicated earlier this week that the government was stepping up the pressure on Greene to resign over the sex scandal that has been dogging him.

The official had said that Greene would be fired if he refused to resign.

Before leaving for the Summit of the Americas in Cartagena, Colombia, President Donald Ramotar reportedly asked Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Roger Luncheon to “talk” to Greene, mainly to ask him to clear out his office.

But sources close to the Commissioner stated that another contributory factor to Greene’s decision to step down was the sudden death of his mother. Mrs. Irene Enid Greene passed away yesterday in Ohio, USA. She was 83.

Greene said that there is only so much a person can take. He added that the matter took a toll on him and his immediate relatives. He stopped short of blaming his mother ’s death on the scandal and subsequent public outcry for his head.

Greene’s fall from grace began in December last year, when a 34-year-old mother of two claimed that the Police Commissioner raped her after forcing her into a city hotel.

She alleged that they first met on November 15, 2011, when she went to meet the Top Cop to enquire about the status of an investigation regarding her.

She said that in the process of the investigations, the Police had taken possession of her mobile phone and she wanted to recover the phone.

The woman claimed that

Henry Greene

Greene told her to meet him on November 22 to uplift the phone and afterwards he offered her a ride home.

However, she alleged that she was driven to a city hotel where the Commissioner pulled out a gun and waved it at her, causing her to be afraid. At this point, she said she reluctantly exited the vehicle after Greene made a strange demand.

In a statement he made to investigators, Greene said that when the woman came to meet him at Police Headquarters on November 22 last it was upon her insistence that they meet “socially” that they ended up at a villa and had consensual sex.

F o l l o w i n g a n investigation by local and Jamaican detectives, the DPP recommended that Mr. Greene be charged with rape.

But Greene moved to the High Court to challenge the DPP’s recommendation, and Chief Justice Ian Chang ruled that the DPP’s decision to charge was irrational and would not stand a chance of success in the courts.

Opposition political parties, human rights groups (continued on page 19)

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

Bus driver given suspended sentence for whipping tout with belt A 34-year-old bus driver was yesterday given a suspended six-month jail sentence after he pleaded guilty to removing a belt from his pants waist and whipping a minibus tout who proceeded to take passengers out of his minibus.

Lloyd Phillips also known as “Wild Pine” yesterday appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for the offence of unlawful assault which he committed against Michael Mano.

The incident took place on April 19 at the Stabroek Market area where Phillips operates his transport on the route 45 minibus park.

The police claimed that on the day in question, the defendant noticed that the victim was loading a minibus with his passengers. He became annoyed and walked up to the tout and an argument ensued between the two.

Phillips then pulled out his belt from his pants waist and dealt Mano several lashes about his body causing him to receive injuries. The matter was reported and the defendant was charged with the offence.

When given a chance to speak, Phillips first clarified that the victim was not a conductor, that he is in fact a tout and a nuisance on the bus park. He said it was a regular habit for the tout to enter people’s buses and take out passengers after one would have solicited them.

“My Worship when you put in one passenger, by time you turn round and go and look for another one, he’s go in ya bus and tek out de people them.”

Phillips alleged that on that particular day he had got a man and a woman to join his bus. He said that he left the persons and went to seek other passengers but by the time he could return, the persons had exited his bus

and the tout was seen off loading the bag of rice that the persons had entered with.

Phillip said he became angry and went up to the tout and an argument started. He said he subsequently pulled out his belt and lashed the minibus tout.

The driver agreed with the court that it was the wrong thing to do and that he should have reported the matter to the police.

The court told Phillips that he would be given a sixmonth jail sentence, but it would be suspended. It was further explained that the sixmonth sentence came with a two-year bond which meant that for that two year period, he is not to get into any trouble punishable by law.

Phillips was warned that if he is convicted of any offence during that two-year period, he would have to serve the sentence of the crime along with the six-month sentence that has been suspended.

Mayor and City Council to build modern crematorium The Mayor and City Council is now considering the idea of constructing a fully modernized crematorium in the city, since it is recognized that Georgetown has none.

This is according to the Chairman of the Markets and Public Health Committee, Mr. Ranwell Jordan, who explained that there is a need

for a crematorium in the city.

The proposal is for a fully modernized one, where when the body goes in one end of a contraption and the ashes come out the other. There is also a plan to have people pay a small fee and have their loved one’s ashes stored safely, for as long as possible.

Available for this venture,

GDF in life saving Medivac of injured worker out of interior The Guyana Defence Force demonstrated that “Service” is truly its Motto with the Medivac of injured Mark Gonzales from Kuribrong to the city, yesterday.

On arrival at Base Camp Ayanganna, Gonzales, who is in a stable condition, was immediately handed into the care of a doctor and other medical personnel who whisked him off to Woodlands Hospital.

The 18-year old sustained injury when a tree branch struck him on the head, felling him to the ground. He was at the time a member of a survey team engaged in cutting lines for mining blocks in the area.

He is an employee of Mohabir Surveyors which is contracted to JAPARTS.

GDF helicopter commander, Major Courtney Byrne, said that the GDF was called into action some time about 14:000 hours by officials of JAPARTS who had only learned of the incident moments earlier.

He said that he immediately departed Georgetown to do the medivac.

is a limited amount of space in the city that is suitable enough for this purpose.

Jordan said that while there are some suggested plots, these are all located out of Georgetown, which will defeat the purpose of having it be the “city’s crematorium”.

He further revealed that while the plot on which the old mortuary is located in Le Repentir might be a suitable one, with a satisfactory concrete foundation, it will hinder the Mayor and City Council’s plan of future enhancements.

City Engineers, he said, are still on the lookout for plots of land to facilitate this and other ventures.

Page 3

GPHC boss says he had $16 million in his head...

$60 million shed devalues to $21 million There is even more confusion surrounding the cost of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)’s waste processing facility and waste collection truck. Officials are now recanting earlier statements about the cost.

According to GPHC’s Chief Executive Officer, Michael Khan, the Hydroclave facility and waste collection truck cost a whopping $300M (US$1.5M).

He was responding to queries on the project.

This figure was supported

by Head of the Health Sector Development Unit, Keith Burrowes, who without providing a breakdown of how the project amounted to $300M, said that $240M was spent to purchase the Hydroclave Sterilization System and waste collection truck. Funding was provided by the World Bank through a grant.

Burrowes further stated that the remaining $60M was spent by the hospital to construct the facility to accommodate the equipment.

This claim was acknowledged

by Khan who said the money was spent to construct the shed, storeroom, to train personnel and airfare for the Hydroclave Canadian consultant.

Following the publishing of two articles in Kaieteur News on the exorbitant costs for the Hydroclave System and the storage shed the hospital issued statements clarifying the costs for both.

In fact, when GPHC issued its first statement it distanced itself from the purchasing of the Hydroclave System and waste collection truck.

The hospital had

disclosed that the bid by the company awarded the contract for the truck and complete Hydroclave system was US$949,579, which left an unexplained sum of US$250,421 from the total which Burrowes had told to Kaieteur News.

Since then Burrowes has recanted his statement on the amount of money spent on the Hydroclave. He said that the project stemmed from a US$10 million grant for Guyana’s HIV programme.

A special appeal was made to the World Bank. In the end, the installation was done by the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Yesterday, nine days after Khan had promised to provide a statement on the $60M facility, he adjusted the figure he had initially provided.

According to the Chief Executive Officer, the $60M he quoted at the outset was actually $21M. Khan insisted that there was no intent by the hospital to mislead or misrepresent the facts involved in the Hydroclave waste disposal matter.

Khan now says for the first time that $15M was provided by the Health Sector Development Unit (HSDU), an arm of the Ministry of Health.

This was for the construction of the Hydroclave holding facility.

The hospital maintained that the actual procurement of the Hydroclave system was handled by HSDU. “The actual total cost for the completion of works to the facility was close to $21M, the difference (of approximately $6M) was funded by the Government of Guyana.

Management wishes that this issue is brought to a closure as the facts have been

clarified and the relevant personnel is open to any scrutiny as there was genuinely no intent to misinform or mislead the general public,” the GPHC said.

“The cost of the facility was inaccurately quoted as $60M during a telephone interview with a Kaieteur News reporter. The CEO, without reservations, admits to having misquoted the cost to have the facility constructed… giving a figure of G$60M, with the figure of $16M in mind…

“It is also noteworthy that the reporter was informed that the information being provided to her was in fact not concrete but an approximation,” GPHC said in the statement.

Observers noted the difference between $60 million and $16 million. Then there was the final cost of $21 million.

One commentator wondered at the true cost.

The CEO explained that the construction of the project was executed in three phases which included the demolition and disposal of existing bins and structure; construction of new waste holding area; construction of floor slab for main shed and office area and the initial construction of steel framed shed.

There was also the construction of a steel-framed shed; construction of two reinforced concrete bridges and rehabilitation of fence and gates.

The last stage included materials, electrical and plumbing works, procurement of garbage bins and commissioning. There were costs for additional visits and training.

Page 4

Kaieteur News

Saturday April 21, 2012

Letters... Where your views make the news

Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

The contradictions in the laws There is a study on the social impact of laws affecting people of different sexual orientation in Guyana. Done by Dr. Christopher Carrico, the study finds that although the constitution guarantees every Guyanese the right to live in a society without discrimination, there is rampant discrimination against a certain section of the society.

To make matters worse there are laws that fuel the discrimination and the society is by and large silent. And this is happening at a time when there are Rights Commissions that have as their primary focus, the protection of the rights.

A group of legal minds and social activists have decided to focus on the discriminatory nature of the society. Needless to say, the findings are shocking to the point that they highlight the fact that the very society that should protect its citizens, force a section of those citizens to become criminals. It also forces people to hide whatever preferences they might have with the result that some of them actually place their lives at risk.

For example, people who may wish to know their ‘status’ may be scared to admit their homosexuality. They may even shy away from contact with the medical personnel with the result that they could deny themselves medical attention.

One must wonder at the duplicity of the Guyanese society. On the one hand it tells people that every Guyanese is protected under the law and on the other, it says that some Guyanese have a right to be more equal than others.

At the receiving end of the discriminatory treatment are the gays, lesbians, transgenders and bi-sexuals. These are the people who are stigmatized.

In the olden days when society ordered itself along certain lines it refused to cater for any difference in attitudes on the part of any citizen. However there have been significant changes since then but to live in Guyana is to deny that those changes have actually taken place.

The study notes, “Sodomy has been illegal in Guyana from the beginning of the colonial era…The current laws were included in the Criminal Laws Act of 1893 and have remained unchanged… Everyone who commits buggery, either with a human being or with any other living creature shall be guilty of a felony and liable to imprisonment for life.”

Lawyers and social activists contend that such laws make criminals of a minority who dare to be different. They argue that the stigma attached now fuels the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and corruption.

And indeed the very society therefore, by keeping the laws on the statutes, allows policemen to prey on this sexual minority by threatening the members with the very laws which are rarely enforced by the tolerant few. This is what some members of the legal profession describe as the law creating an enabling environment.

Some policemen arbitrarily enforce the laws against vagrancy and loitering on persons whom they suspect of being homosexuals.

But this should not be. There should be no contradictions in the society; but there is. These laws from 1893 became part of the constitution when Guyana became independent. Society has changed. The result is that there are anti-discrimination laws but these very antidiscrimination laws exist side by side with those that discriminate.

One would believe that the law is a straightforward series of notes and documentations. They are not. And it is here that one needs to ask about the perennial judicial review.

Many countries routinely expunge archaic laws from the statutes. This does not seem to be the case in Guyana.

And to show that it is not entirely averse to sexual discrimination the very society that talks of democracy and tolerance, sought to legislate against sexual discrimination.

In the face of protests and despite the passage in Parliament, the President declined to assent to the legislation.

The life of the Parliament came to an end and the decision simply fell off the radar.

Will the interest of the people triumph this time?

DEAR EDITOR, I am prepared, but hesitant, to look ahead and be optimistic about the apparent attempt by the PPP/ C to meaningfully engage the parliamentary opposition to ensure that as far as practicably possible, the nation gets a ‘people’s budget’.

However, despite my optimism, I am forced to be realistic and remind myself that too often we have been at this place. A place where the PPP/C having had their backs against the wall, have decided to play with time, behave like they really care, and are willing to cooperate for the good of the nation.

Without going back to the Herdmanston Accord, signed between the Late Desmond Hoyte and the Late Janet Jagan, and the Joint Communiqué signed between Bharrat Jagdeo and Robert Corbin, and again the Constructive Engagement arrangement between these two leaders on behalf of their specific parties, I have only to reflect on what transpired, a few mornings ago, just after the recently agreed tripartite committee which was established, at the insistence of the Opposition Leader, David Granger and at the behest of the President Ramotar.

This committee was set up shortly after the November 2011 elections and came to an abrupt end soon after.

The fact is that all these arrangements, mentioned above, had one thing in common, that is, they were agreed upon and entered into at a time when the PPP/C was under political pressure, from the masses and the main opposition party.

The primary objectives of these arrangements were that the main opposition party and the government were supposed to have agreed, in good faith, on certain deliverables for the people.

History will remind us that in all of those situations, the people have not derived real benefit, because while the government agreed in principle and signed on to the arrangements, they have largely reneged, and talks breakdown.

In the end, the people are left with ‘raw agreements’, from which they derive no real or full benefit. So convinced was Desmond Hoyte about the PPP/C’s convenient scheme, that when talks broke down after the Herdmanston Accord fell

through, he concluded that, “the PPP/C only understands pressure”.

My own analysis on these matters is that the PPP/C would enter into an arrangement basically to buy time and to allow for public pressure to ease.

Once they recognize that people have given them space, they then callously disregard all arrangements. I pray that this time the PPP/C prove me wrong!

I hope that we all have come to a place when we will recognize that people and country are paramount, even more than our individual or collective political ambitions.

If we understand this most basic fact, we will be able to recognize that it is the people who have the power to determine whether our political ambitions take a progressive or retrogressive step.

The PPP/C’s most recent showing at the November 2011 polls, illustrates this very fact, it is hoped that they humbly recognize and accept that the people have spoken.

As I desperately strive to remain optimistic that the PPP/ C government’s decision to engage the parliamentary opposition to deliver a more working class budget is genuine and sincere, my innermost feelings coerce me

to be realistic and not be overly enthused.

I also ponder whether in retrospect, the people might have been better served, parliamentary time better utilized and national cooperation further down the road, had the tripartite committee, initiated by the APNU, stayed on course.

I wonder whether the 2012 budget would not have been passed by now, and whether the raise in old age pension would not have had to endure the wrath of a blistering ridicule and post-budget renegotiation.

Today we see that with meaningful collaboration, via talks between the government and main opposition party, there was an amicable solution to the ‘old age pension debacle’ the benefit is now increased from the proposed $600 to $2,500.

Congrats to APNU for pressing on! Again, as a result of collective effort, we realize that it is possible to delay any increase in the electricity tariffs for the people of the depressed community of Linden, a city challenged with high unemployment and lack of any real economic success story, for the people.

We also see that with collective wisdom the ‘onesize-fits-all’ approach, in this situation, could not work, as

such variations and exemptions in possible increases later, were necessary and sensible.

Again, thanks to APNU for staying the course!

Too often the planners and decision-makers make decisions, likely to impact people’s lives, without factoring in the socioeconomic factors etc., akin to the subjects.

They also often neglect to assess the impending psychological impact those decisions are likely to have on their intended targets. Any first-year Economics student will tell you that economics is more than dollars and cents.

One might argue that these first signs of adjustments might be sufficient for me to relieve myself of the fear that the government is playing ‘opportunistic politics’, just to get the 2012 budget to pass, however, I wish to point out that my skepticism may subside when I see those other valuable adjustments are made in the budget.

For instance, with specific reference to the 16% VAT, the Finance Minister cannot tell the nation that VAT, that burden that is on every Guyanese ‘slashing list’ is off the negotiating table, but yet expects the people to pass the (Continued on page 5)

DEAR EDITOR, “They must read the ruling before commenting on it.”

This statement was made by acting Chief Justice, Ian Chang when a member of the press asked him to respond to the explosive outcry that came from certain sections of society comprising of a “unique mixture” exclusive of the remnant of legal luminaries currently practicing in Guyana.

The Chief Justice’s ruling was informative enough to allow a layman to be able to form an opinion that does not require any special training and/or education to understand what happened vis-à-vis the Commissioner of Police and his rape accuser.

Perhaps the Honourable Chief Justice was just a little too expansive in the detailed manner that he quite rightly chose to “hand down” his decision that prohibits the Director of Public Prosecutions from advising that the Police Department institutes charges of rape against the Commissioner of

Police, Mr. Henry Greene.

Nonetheless, had the Chief Justice not gone into such detail with his findings; the wailings would have been worse than the subsequent well-publicized unnecessary, emotional, and futile outcries.

It is a universal maxim that “Ignorance of the law is no excuse,” but this does not mean that those who lack the “nimbleness of intellect” cannot understand the operation of law.

The mere fact that law applies to human action or conduct whether rational or irrational as an expression of legislative will, such is enough for most normal human beings to have respect for the law, and those who are in place to ensure that the law is applied without fear or favour. The point being that regardless of intellect, ignorance and/or human emotions, when it comes to LAW, there is a limit as to what happens and what shall not happen.

One must be prepared for the occasion when legislative will (spirit of the law) allows for disappointment in whether the outcome of a dispute is to be prosecuted or thrown out.

The courthouse is not like the church house, where folks go at least once a week to feed their emotions and soul

while strengthening their faith, but instead, it is a venue to have matters resolved based on two things, and only those two things namely, the facts, and secondly the relevant law(s).

Truth and justice must prevail regardless of the moral issues associated with an allegation. Character of an accuser may be such that it can create a doubt concerning the probability of guilt and/or innocence, and such must be determined beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Unfortunately, it is apparent that the Commissioner was “encouraged” into a situation like happened to Samson.

However, it took on a mind of its own and grabbed the attention of locals and “regionalists” alike.

The external tribunal that looked into the allegation prior to the relevant authorities in-depth investigation, that team did not scrutinise the circumstances thoroughly enough to present a more candid assessment of the reality.

It was left to the thoroughness of acting Chief Justice of Guyana, Mr. Ian Chang to decipher the facts from the frivolous, “story (Contimnued page 5)

LEGAL LIMITS OF THE LAW

Perhaps the time is now when we may need to bring our statutes in line with other countries in the world.

But with the society being as divided as it is with the religious zealots and those who are scared to challenge the status quo, it is unlikely that Guyana may never dispense with those laws that conflict with the constitution and those that discriminate against a most unfortunate minority.

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

Page 5

Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news

This government lacks compassion and feeling for the masses DEAR EDITOR, The context within which Prime Minister Sam Hinds is using the 1976 electricity statement by then Prime Minister Forbes Burnham, to justify a single supplier and electricity hike in Linden, is a total fabrication.

The period he alludes to, the then bauxite company, GUYMINE, was producing excess electricity. It was because of this excess supply, coupled with the national electricity expansion programme, the Burnham administration argued for the excess power being put into the national grid.

To this end a sub-station was established off the Washer Pond, on Industrial Road, and power lines were run along the Linden/ Soesdyke highway feeding supplies into Georgetown and its environs. This is the backdrop to the issue, which Hinds is aware of, but chooses to be deceptive about.

The prime minister’s reference of the government’s intent to “merge the supply area of Linden Utility Services Co-op Society Ltd. (LUSCSL) into Linden Electricity Company Inc (LECI),” is deserving of attention (SN 15/4/2012), for this proposed merger poses a threat to the survival of LUSCSL, which is a company owned by the people. LECI on the other hand is a stateowned entity. LECI also does not supply the areas LUSCSL supplies. To its credit, LUSCSL has pioneered electricity distribution to Christiansburg in the North, to West Watooka in the South, inclusive of Wisroc on the West Bank of the Demerara River in the Linden community.

Thus the merger proposal not only seeks to destroy the ingenuity and economic selfdetermination of a people, but it will put these entrepreneurs and their loved ones on the breadline. Further, this will be

LEGAL LIMITS OF...

From page 4 bound” accusation of rape.

Prosecution must not be frivolous, fictional, malicious, politically inspired or vindictive; it is serious stuff and must be driven by facts.

As regards the new outcry for President Ramotar to act swiftly concerning the fate of the Commissioner of Police, it must be borne in mind that care must be exercised, lest we have a new round of legal moves and countermoves.

The proper approach must be taken to bring closure to this matter that is obviously

appearing in the news columns too very often!

Finally, societies around the world tend to celebrate celebrities in times of their glory, and likewise, censor them when they stumble or fall short. We have a number of such examples in recent years, from Mike Tyson, to O. J. Simpson, to Dominique Strauss-Kahn, to Kobe Bryant, and also former President William Jefferson Clinton. Who is next in line?

Who will be the next one to fall victim or prey?

Neilson O. Wray

escalating poverty in Linden and its environs. It is also disturbing that this draconian proposed increase had been decided upon without consultation with the people, which is a violation of their constitutional right to participate in national decision-making that impacts their wellbeing.

It should be said the government boast of subsiding electricity to Lindeners is an attempt to distort the truth behind their action. For their action is not one of benevolence or social welfare. The current electricity rate Lindeners pay is the result of the government’s decision to sell the bauxite operation, the non-renewable mineral resources, together with the workers’ sweat equity, for US$1.00. Sweat equity in trade union language speaks to a deferral of wages/payment for work done in return that such money be invested and benefits subsequently derived from said investment(s).

Bauxite workers made upfront sacrifices by foregoing some aspect of their earnings so that such can be invested in areas of electricity and water.

Additional to the destruction of their sweat equity, their contributory pension and thrift plans were destroyed by the PPP government. This pension plan was worth in

excess of $2.5 billion and was the single largest pool of money owned by Africans.

The efforts made by the Guyana Bauxite & General Workers Union (GB&GWU) to save this plan were ignored by the government.

Similarly, too, the government ignored requests to assist the industry with US$14M for retooling and bauxite workers securing ownership of the industry.

Now LUSCSL is targeted.

This company remains a symbol of hope and is among the last bastions of the collective economic will and power of a people.

Lindeners play a major role in Guyana’s economy and at critical moments paid the salaries of other government workers, even as they simultaneously accepted income/benefits below the

market value for their skills, in recognition of the bigger picture.

Contrary to propaganda, Lindeners are not freeloaders, neither are they lazy. Since November 1992, the bauxite communities have been waging a valiant struggle to have their basic right to self-determination respected, be it economic, political, social, and/or cultural. A right this government seems bent on destroying.

Reeling from high unemployment and heavy reliance on subsistence employment, Lindeners cannot afford to pay the increase. Further, pensioners have no money to pay any increase, when their economic sustenance is severely restricted, having been placed in this position by this very government,

leaving them with income only from NIS and social security pensions. The conditions of life that Lindeners currently experience are not of their making, but rather imposed on them by a vindictive and discriminatory government.

Amidst the imposed deprivations, the prime minister has the temerity to say “[t]he initial adjustment would be disruptive, yes, but the pain would pass…”

This statement comes from a man who, for obvious reasons, feels no such pain.

This government lacks compassion and feeling for the masses and the Lindeners’ stance in the face of continued efforts to destroy their well-being is commendable. For anything worth having is worth fighting for.

Lincoln Lewis

Will the interest of the people...

From page 4 budget. I believe that VAT and other issues must be adjusted in a way that the people of Guyana will derive true benefit. So the process of making a palatable budget has just started and it is hoped that it does not stop with the old age pension and electricity tariffs for Linden.

My optimism remains in the hope that the opposition will stay the course and ensure that the people’s majority is used in a way that

derives the greatest possible benefits for the citizens of Guyana.

I am, however, prepared to give the benefit of the doubt to the PPP/C by suggesting that this time they will not squander the opportunity to demonstrate that they are

truly concerned about the working class people of Guyana. I am prepared to grant them a ‘clean slate’. I hope they use it well! Let the grandstanding from all corners cease and let the interest of the people triumph!

Lurlene Nestor

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Kaieteur News

Saturday April 21, 2012

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

Page 7

Jamaica launches new initiative to save billions in energy costs The government, in the next two weeks, will launch its energy efficiency and conservation programme, aimed at saving more that $2 billion per year in energy costs.

This was announced by Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, Phillip Paulwell Thursday as he addressed the opening of the Jamaica Power Summit 2012 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston.

To be financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Mr. Paulwell said the programme objective will be realised through the design and implementation of cost saving measures.

“This is a notable case of government leading by example because the measures to be implemented will stand as an example for the private sector to emulate…what is significant is that we, the government, have done our energy audit, and the results are amazing,” he said.

The Minister said that if the energy efficiency recommendations of the audit, including retrofits, are implemented “we can cut public sector energy consumption by some 25 per cent and realise savings of some $2.6 billion per year”.

“What that means, (is that) we will reduce the demand for electricity by 15

mega watts (MW) to 55 MW, or 101 million kilowatts per hour (KWH) per year or 175,000 barrels of oil. At world prices of approximately $110 a barrel, the savings we will realise from this investment will allow this project to pay for itself in less than four years,” he assured.

Also associated with that project, Mr. Paulwell informed, is a joint initiative of his Ministry and Local Government and Community Development, where a taskforce has been assembled to assess how best the country can reduce the consumption associated with streetlights.

He added that the government’s vision is for a modern, efficient, diversified and sustainable energy sector that supplies all productive sectors of the country, and to have no less than 20 per cent of the country’s energy being supplied from renewable sources.

The two-day summit was staged by the United Statesbased Electric Utility Consultants, Inc. (EUCI), and is sponsored by the Caribbean Energy Information System, Scientific Research Council, and Mergermarket. The event features multiple sessions that will review traditional, renewable, and alternative power sources available to the island. (JIS)

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Kaieteur News

Saturday April 21, 2012

Govt. signals intention to join transparency body - GGMC Chairman In order to promote transparency and accountability in the oil, gas, gold and extractive industry Government has signaled its intention to be a member of Extractive Industry and Transparency Initiative (EITI.) This was disclosed by Major General (rtd), Joe Singh at a Good Business workshop hosted by Transparency Institute Guyana Inc yesterday.

The venue was at Moray House, Camp and Quamina Streets.

Chairman of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Major General (rtd), Joe Singh, said that he attended a meeting of Extractive Industry and

Transparency Initiative (EITI) yesterday and Guyana has signaled its intention be a member of the organization which deals with oil, gas, gold and extractive industry.

He explained that the organization deals with funds that are garnered from those activities and promotes transparency and accountability for the proper use of taxes and funds.

He explained that one of the functions of EITI is for the Oil and Gas Company and those involved in the extractive industry to declare what it is that they pay over to the government in taxes, while the government declares what it is receiving.

This is then published in a report.

“But of course there are limitations, as those payments are not only made to Government, but also to subcontractors and transportation agencies…but the real issue is how the money is really unstilted when received and its impact on the non-extractive sector,” Adding that if the government is serious about becoming a member of EITI, Singh said such would have to be declared publicly, since the process takes approximately 18 months.

A number of governments, including those of Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Qatar, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom

and the United States, plus the European Union, support the EITI. These governments provide political, technical and financial support to the initiative.

EITI holds a Global Conference once every two years, bringing together all stakeholders of the EITI. During these conferences, a smaller Members’ Meeting with the three constituency groups countries (implementing and supporting), companies (including institutional investors) and civil society organisations - takes place.

EITI’s governance structure is codified in the

Articles of Association for the EITI Association.

The EITI Association operates under Norwegian law as a non-profit organisation, which includes the EITI Initiative Secretariat.

The Initiative community provides support of EITI implementation both bilaterally and through the EITI Multi-Don o r T r u s t Fund managed by the Wo r l d Bank.

The Secretariat is funded by the supporting countries and the supporting companies.

Implementing country governments, pay for the implementation and Validation of their EITI process.

Major General (rtd), Joe Singh

GPHC responds to accident patient being sent away The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has mounted an investigation into the situation at which family members have claimed that the hospital sent away a 19-year-old accident victim although he was badly injured.

The 19-year-old boy, Hussanni Vanlewin, was involved in an accident last Saturday. He was rushed to the hospital for medical attention.

Relatives said that the boy reached at the hospital around midnight but received medical attention after 03:00hrs the following morning although he was unconscious. Also, they claimed that the attitude of the nurses on duty were “unprofessional”.

The teen’s grandmother said that the hospital just “strap” up her grandson’s hand and give him some painkillers. She claimed that Vanlewin had a relapse and

was incoherent; causing her to rush him to a private hospital, where he is now a patient.

A GPHC official told Kaieteur News that it is normal procedure for staff to treat accident patient and judge whether they should be admitted. The patient and

their relatives would then be told to return to the hospital if the patient seems to be having a relapse.

In a statement issued Thursday the hospital management invited Vanlewin’s relative to meet with the administration to discuss the matter “amicably.”

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) has accused government of threatening workers to participate in protest actions earlier this week in front of the Parliament Building.

According to the union yesterday, it is alarmed by the “coercive method” used by Government functionaries in getting public servants out to protest in front of the Parliament Building on Wednesday.

“The GPSU was inundated with telephone calls from its members who were told that it was mandatory for them to attend the protest action being conducted at the Parliament Building,” a statement from the union said.

GPSU insisted that the alleged action by Government

functionaries is illegal and unconstitutional and the union had even advised public servants not to attend.

“The union wishes to inform all public service workers whose emoluments are under consideration in the National Budget currently being debated in Parliament that the Guyana Public Service Union would not be supportive of any action that would result in them being made redundant or in any way resulting in their unemployment.”

In fact, the GPSU said that it is pledging to vigorously and aggressively confront any development of that nature and has placed on record its position that the parallel public service (contracted workers) should be disbanded and that the

public service should be a career service and all employees be treated in an even hand and equitable manner.

“We advocate that permanent pensionable positions must not be occupied by contract employees and where this exists, such persons who are eligible should be offered permanent employment through the Public Service Commission at the levels and salaries as is shown in the Estimates of Expenditure for each Ministry.”

There are a number of vacancies existing in the Public Service on the “Permanent Pensionable Establishment”.

“The government instead of filling these positions (continued on page 16)

Vanlewin, at a private hospital

Ministry workers were coerced to protest - GPSU

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

Page 9

NOT SO SMART POLITICS BY THE AFC The Alliance for Change has suffered a huge dent to its credibility because of its brainless proposal to make deep cuts to three Government Ministries namely, the Ministry of Housing and Water, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce.

The AFC obviously received bad advice on this matter. It should never again allow itself to be misled into making a proposal such as it made, without having a sound and rational basis for so doing.

The AFC should have awaited the commencement of the debate on the Estimates of Expenditure for the three Ministries before advancing the suggestions that it intended to make deep cuts to the provisions for these ministries. It should never have adopted an arbitrary approach to the cuts.

It is clear that the AFC did not have sufficient information to allow it to rationally decide that more than 3 billion dollars needed to be pruned from the overall estimates. According to the Stabroek News of Wednesday April 18, 2012, the AFC had written to the Minister of Finance requesting the details of contract employment for the Office of the President, the

Ministry of Finance, the Guyana Elections Commission, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

There is no indication that the AFC ever received these details and therefore for it to proceed to suggest deep cuts to the estimates for three ministries is an admission that this decision was arbitrary.

If it did not have the information on contract employees within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, how then could it arrive at a figure as to how much to cut from the provisions for that Ministry. Suppose there were no “fat cats” within that ministry, then how is the AFC going to explain its decision?

That decision, obviously based on misguided advice, has left the AFC’s credibility seriously dented and moreso since the government was able to turn a large number of public employees against the AFC. There was no need for the AFC to have acted precipitously. It could have opted to use the debate on the estimates to elicit answers about contract employees. It could have also done what APNU did and call for discussions with the government before the debate on the estimates started.

Instead it opted for high

Dem boys seh...

People got to put back de hydroclave money Is confusion pun confusion. People changing figures like how some parents does change dem children diapers. Old people always seh that is better to tell de truth because it hard fuh remember a lie.

Now people want know if de people who set up de hydroclave did know de truth and know fuh tell de truth.

Dem boys decide to question de cost of de hydroclave wha dem build to destroy hospital waste. When dem commission de thing dem claim how dem spend $300 million. That figure look wrong suh dem boys get de quotation from de people who sell it. The real price was just more than half of wha dem hospital people tell dem reporters.

Michael de Con claim how he spend $60 million fuh build a shed. Dem boys know that de figure wrong but de Con insist that he know wha he talking bout. Uncle Donald does read and he see all this high price.

He get vex and he start fuh ask question. All of a sudden dem big figures start fuh get small. Keith de Burrower suddenly remember that he didn’t remember de exact figure and that he just give an estimate. He think that he did spend US$1 million which is wha de World Bank did give.

Michael de Con then remember that he spend some money too. He remember that de Burrower did give he $15 million.

But he $60 million he couldn’t explain. He tek one week fuh come up wid an answer. He suddenly remember that he spend $21 million—not $60million. He claim that when he tell de reporter $60 million he had $16 million in he head.

Dem boys want know how a big man like that gun think $16 million and talk $60 million? By de time dem boys done ask question de hydroclave might cost one dollar because nobody ain’t want go to jail fuh de people money.

Now nuff people not sleeping when de night come. Dem wondering wha gun happen. Dem got to put back de people money and that is wha got nuff of dem thinking bout suicide.

Is a time and a half.

Talk half and wait fuh de hollering in de next half.

theatrics and grandstanding with the consequence that it has been exposed as a party that likes to flex its muscles but has very little to offer the Guyanese people in terms of practical suggestions.

It has now been upstaged by of all parties, APNU. And to add insult to injury it is now quite absurdly attempting to claim that had it not made the proposals that it did, pensioners would not have enjoyed the increase they will receive from May 1.

The AFC deserves no such credit. The credit has to go toAPNU and the government.

APNU and the government are negotiating and the AFC has without

foresight locked itself out of this process. It ought never to have followed poor advice; it ought never to have allowed itself to be in the present predicament.

Its constituents expected that it would have behaved responsibly and not attempted to flex its muscles when it should be negotiating and wresting concessions from the government.

The AFC is now a pitiful sight in front of an audience not lost on the ludicrousness of it all. This is a far cry, an ignominious decline from its stellar performance during the debate on the Budget itself when it had outshone all the other parties in the National

Assembly.

It has lost a vital opportunity to make a difference in the spending priorities of the government this year. It now is not even going to be able to press for a reduction of the VAT by the 2% that it was calling for.

Instead of addressing its own shortcomings it is now attempting to be selfrighteous by accusing APNU of betraying the people of Linden. APNU has done no such thing.

APNU knew that the preferential tariffs that were enjoyed by Lindeners which led to the average household in Linden using twice as much electricity as the average

consumer in the rest of Guyana, is unsustainable.

APNU knows that it will invoke the displeasure of a great many Guyanese if its presses for the retention of these tariffs and as such it has sought to negotiate a wider package of benefits for its constituents.

This is not betrayal of Linden. This is smart politics and APNU has opted to be smart rather than be like the AFC, not so smart.

Lindeners vow to resist Govt. moves to acquire electricity co-op The members of the Linden Utility Services Cooperative Society Ltd (LUSCSL) on Thursday evening made a resolution that they will “resist resolutely, any action to nationalize, absorb or engage in any similar act which would remove ownership and control of the Linden Utility Services Cooperatives Society Limited from its membership.”

“We will also stoutly resist and reject in its entirety, any act by any agency or authority that seeks to remove the ability of the Linden Utility Services Cooperative Society Limited to distribute power to our consumers at Wismar.”

This resolution was taken at a Special General Members Meeting of April 19, last at the Harmony Secondary School, Burnham Drive, Wismar, Linden.

The initial motion was moved by former Regional Chairman Mortimer Mingo and seconded by Member Junella Small. The amended motion, which included Member Valerie Adams Patterson’s correction that the LUSCSL had applied five times instead of reading “at

least three times”, for the grant of an Electricity Distribution License, was moved by Member Mortimer Mingo and seconded by Member Gordon Callendar and was unanimously approved by the members present.

The LUSCSL meeting was called a mere two days after the town of Linden staged one of its largest protests to proclaim dissatisfaction over the proposed electricity hike for the Town.

The Committee of Management of LUSCSL had called the meeting to discuss the Prime Minister’s letter to the Stabroek News of Sunday April 15 which informed that

by July 1, this year, Government intends to merge the Linden Utility Services Coop Society Ltd. (LUSCL), which supplies electricity to residents on the Wismar shore with the Linden Electricity Company Inc (LECI)”which serves Mackenzie.

In the letter Hinds had pointed out, “ While countries the world over encourage and promote cooperative efforts such as this, and the LUSCSL provides a beacon of an example for emulation for

other similar efforts by Guyanese in all sectors, this government intends to simply tell our thousands of members to shut up shop and hand over our operations.”

But irate members who were extremely vocal at the meeting have unanimously vowed never to ‘give up the Coop” In a press release, the members stated that they will not back down from this challenge, but “will resist any attempt to emasculate or wrest from our control what is acknowledged as the largest cooperative effort in terms of membership in Guyana, and certainly one of the longest existing of these efforts”.

“We have protested long and hard against the perceived discrimination of

the government against the L.U.S.C.S.L.’s cooperative efforts, most recently writing to engage the opposition parties in discussions, since our attempts to secure an Electricity Distribution License, which we applied for on at least three occasions, as far back as 1996 and again in 2008, have met with no success.

“The lack of this licence was cited by the government in an attempt in 2009 to impose a 16 per cent increase in electricity costs on the residents of Wismar under the guise of charging VAT, a decision which met with stern protest by our members and was subsequently withdrawn.”

Members view the latest (continued on page 18)

Page 10

Kaieteur News

Saturday April 21, 2012

NICIL to have special section in the Auditor General’s 2011 report - Deodat Sharma

By Rabindra Rooplall The state-owned National Industrial, Commercial and Investments Limited (NICIL) had not filed an annual return for the past 20 years at the Deeds Registry.At the same time billions of dollars have been moved from the Consolidated Fund.

This is according to Christopher Ram, whose company Ram and McRae has been conducting reviews of Guyana’s budget for the last few years. He was speaking at a Good Business workshop hosted by Transparency Institute Guyana Inc (TIGI) yesterday at Moray House, Camp and Quamina Streets.

At the event was Auditor

General (ag) Deodat Sharma, Canadian High Commissioner David Devine, Director of TIGI Chantalle Haynes, members of the diplomatic corps, former Auditor General Dr. Anand Goolsaran and special invitees.

According to Christopher Ram, the privatization of state assets used to be done by the Ministry of Finance and in accordance with article 216 of the constitution, the money must be placed in the Consolidated Fund.

However, over the past few years there has been an increasing tendency by the government whenever it wished to divert state assets, to vest those assets in an institution that is controlled by Cabinet and

called (NICIL). The proceeds are then used by NICIL as it wishes, Ram said.

Ram questioned whether the Auditor General’s office is concerned that billions of dollars was moved by the government directly from the Consolidated Fund to NICIL, and if the Auditor General sought independent advice as to the constitutionality of the practice.

“As the holder of a constitutional office the Auditor General is not supposed to be seeking advice from the Executive, the Attorney General, as was done with the lottery funds…Have you sought advice on the constitutionality and the propriety of this practice that seems to go through the back door?” Ram questioned.

The Auditor General (ag) Deodat Sharma declined to answer the question but said that his office has been covering the audits of NICIL, but since it’s a separate company it has been audited separately. The subject Minister is responsible for laying those reports, independently, in Parliament, Sharma said.

He noted that NCIL has been audited up to 2004.

Adding that NICIL will

have a special section in the Auditor General 2011 report for its review, Sharma said these will include all the sales and the proceeds that were given to NICIL. Commenting on the issues, former Auditor General Dr. Anand Goolsaran said that the formation of NICIL in 1991 was intended to create an organization to manage the surplus assets emanating from the divestments under the previous administration.

“From what I see now coming back after seven years, things have spiraled out of control as far as NICIL is concerned. I don’t think the intention was to collect money, retain money and to spend money. I don’t think the intention was to still sell state assets.

“The documents which created NICIL should be checked to see if it is working in accordance with that, and if not that should be raised by the Auditor General,” Goolsaran emphatically said.

He explained that all public revenues have to be placed in the Consolidated Fund. This is not happening at present and is a serious concern.

Adding that the Consolidated Fund is managed

by the National Assembly which has to sanction all expenditure, Goolsaran said. “Who is guaranteeing that all monies belonging to the Consolidated Fund is ending up in the Consolidated Fund?”

Dr. Goolsaran recently reiterated his position that the 24 per cent proceeds from the Guyana Lottery Fund from which the government has received several billion dollars should be turned over to the Consolidated Fund where it would be subject to Parliamentary Scrutiny.

He says that Office of the President’s action is tantamount to circumventing Parliament’s authority. “I also noted the 2010 report and there is a part in the financial statement which says that $33 billion was moved from special bank accounts into the Consolidated Fund.

“Those special bank accounts have been reported on for years. The explanatory notes say that the money has been transferred to the Consolidated Fund but I looked at the published accounts which should reflect the receipts and payments to the Consolidate Fund but I am not seeing it,” Goolsaran underscored.

Auditor General (ag) Deodat Sharma NICIL was established under the former Companies Act and the Public Corporations Act to subscribe for, take or otherwise acquire and hold the government shares, stocks, debentures or other securities of any company, co-operatives societies or body corporate.

Among the most notable of the questionable transactions done in 2010 by NICIL was the transfer of Government land at Liliendaal and Pattensen, East Coast Demerara, to NICIL. This land, 103.88 acres, was in turn sold to National Hardware Guyana Limited for $600M. This is in direct violation to the Constitution and the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act which state that monies should be placed in the Consolidated Fund, from which it can only be withdrawn with parliamentary approval.

Another property was transferred from NICIL to Queens Atlantic Investment Inc. headed

by Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop. This property, worth billions of dollars, has been identified as 4702 Plantation Ruimveldt, with an area of 18.871 acres. The sale price is still unknown.

There was no known advertisement of this transfer nor was there a tender.

With the absence of any annual reports for NICIL since 2002, there are no indications that any monies will be paid to the fund.

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

Page 11

Public Buildings now have a wheelchair ramp

Persons with disabilities could now access the ground floor of the Public Buildings with ease owing to its newly installed wheelchair ramp.

This significant addition at the entrance of the historic building was commissioned yesterday, demonstrating Guyana's commitment of including persons with disabilities in national development.

The erection of the ramp was initiated by Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman.

However, modifications to the structure have been

recommended by National Commission on Disabilities' C o m m i s s i o n e r, H i l t o n Morris. After taking his inaugural trip up the ramp, Morris suggested that the structure depth be extended so a person could wheel in comfort.

An appeal for other public buildings or offices to install similar features to easily accommodate persons with disabilities was made by Human Services Minister, Jennifer Webster.

According to Ms Webster, “As leaders, we have a right and a

Fort Island residents benefit from medical outreach

Residents of Fort Island, Essequibo River, were the recipients of free medical care, recently.

The team comprised D r. N a v i n d r a n a u t h a n d Pheona Rambaran,along with Managing Director of the New Doctors Clinic, Satyendra Khemraj. This clinic is located at 12 Austin Street, Campbellville, Georgetown.

Organizer Khemraj, a former resident of Fort Island, said that the outreach was a success. It was a first of its kind.

Khemraj added that

about two dozen patients, with ailments ranging from chest pains to chronic complaints were seen and given medication, by the doctors. Three of those patients were recommended for further treatment and testing.

Khemraj said while the medical outreach was his initiative in the form of giving back to the co mmu n ity, ad d itio n al outreaches are planned for residents of Fort Island.

Fort Island has a health post with an assigned Medex.

responsibility to recognize the importance of reducing the environmental barriers that hinder the full and effective participation of persons with disabilities on our society.�

She stressed that persons with disabilities are deemed to be the most vulnerable in Guyana.

Citing the 2002 census, Webster noted that about 6.4 percent of the population comprises persons living with disabilities.

Though, persons with disabilities are productive citizens and should be afforded equal opportunities, many leaders of disability

organizations have reported there are barriers to their being employed, Webster stated.

These barriers include inaccessible workplaces, limited training and educational opportunities, high transportation costs and cultural barriers.

She admitted that many children with disabilities are excluded by the inaccessibility of the school buildings. It was noted that Guyana became a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, on April 11, (continued on page 19)

Commission on Disabilities' Commissioner, Hilton Morris takes the inaugural trip up newly installed ramp

Page 12

Kaieteur News

Saturday April 21, 2012

Saturday April 21, 2012

Page 13

Kaieteur News

Govt. denies wasting tax-payers’ money …Benn says US$5.9M payment was on 'Fip' Motilall “only for certified works done”

By Gary Eleazar

M

inister of Transport and Hydraulics, Robeson Benn, yesterday declared in the National Assembly that no taxpayers' money was wasted on Makeswhar 'Fip' Motilall of Synergy Holdings Inc. S y n e rg y w a s i n i t i a l l y awarded the US$15.4M Amaila Falls Access Road project.

Benn was at the time speaking to the more than $2.3B allocated in the 2012 Budget for the completion of the project ever since the arrangement with Motilall was terminated.

The House yesterday continued its sessions in the Standing Parliamentary Committee of Supply where the legislators scrutinize each of the allocations specifically and in detail.

Benn informed the House that US$5.9 million was paid to Synergy Holdings Inc “for works done.” It was Moses Nagamootoo, formerly of the People's Progressive Party (PPP) and now in the Alliance for Change (AFC's) camp, who in offering a supplementary question to a query made by APNU's Joe Harmon, suggested that monies were wasted on Motilall by the administration.

T h e P u b l i c Wo r k s Minister took umbrage to the statement and proceeded to tell the House that the Contract with Synergy Holdings Inc was terminated for failing to advance the project according to the timelines.

He was speaking to the fact that Motilall had missed at least three deadlines with respect to progress on the critical roadway along with approved extensions.

The Amaila Falls Access road is meant to facilitate the construction of the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project and will have to withstand heavy strains to be induced when trekking in the components for the 'Flagship' project.

Benn, in defending the payments made to Motilall of Synergy Holdings Inc, said that “the payments made are for works done.”

T h e P u b l i c Wo r k s Minister hammered home the point that the payments were for certified works which were qualified by the consultant engineer.

He was at the time referring to SRKN'Gineering which had come in for flak when it was learnt that the company had been approving works for payments to be made to Motilall.

Benn told the House that the administration has since

One wounded in brawl at a city hotel

O

n Thursday evening a couple employed at a city hotel was involved in a fight during which Rawle Nichols broke a bottle and stabbed his female companion, Malika Benjamin, in full view of guests at the hotel.

The guests were gathered at the pool side of the Guest House where karaoke was in session. This publication was informed that the incident may have stemmed from a BlackBerry Message (BBM) the woman had sent to someone.

The proprietor of the hotel contended that the matter was a personal one and did not warrant the public's attention.

At least one guest from the United States staying at the hotel who spoke with this publication expressed surprise and fear for his safety. The guest told this publication that he was in his

hotel room when he heard loud screams coming from the poolside of the hotel. He said that as he ran down to see what was happening he noticed blood all over the place.

The guest who asked that his name not be mentioned stated that he saw a woman running all over the place holding her stomach while several persons attempted to wrestle a man to the ground.

He said that the man had a broken bottle in his hands.

The guest stated that as guests began enquiring from the employees what really went wrong and caused the fiasco none of them was willing to speak. The guest is of the view that the hotel owes them an apology.

Meanwhile this publication was told that the injured woman was rushed to a city hospital for treatment. Efforts to confirm the severity of her wounds proved futile.

moved to levy against the US$1.5M performance bond held by Hand in Hand.

Responding to Nagamootoo's query as it relates to what preventative measures are in place to ensure that there isn't a repeat of the Motilall Fiasco, Benn drew reference to the fact that there is always, with such projects, a 10 per cent performance bond in place to levy against.

Among some of the other estimates to come under

scrutiny in the Parliamentary Committee of Supply was that for the airstrip on the island of Wakenaam.

Benn defended this project saying that the monies listed were for continued servicing of the facility and that the airstrip was not slated for regular commercial flights.

He did explain, however, t h a t a m o n g t h e considerations for the airstrip was “security” which for good reason could not be

expanded on in the House.

Fuel for the two ferries gifted to Guyana from China to the tune of $125M also came under scrutiny when the House was also informed by the Minster that the $15M being spent for the ticketing system at Parika and Supenaam will be completed within a matter of weeks.

On the issue of subsidies for the Transport and Harbours division Volda Lawrence also sought to find out when the most recent

audited report was completed and sought clarification also on the outstanding documents.

Benn informed the House that the most recent report available is that for 2003 and that the remaining reports will be completed this year.

No cuts were proposed for the Ministry of Public Works and the estimates allocated for that Budget Agency's current and capital expenditures were approved unaltered.

Page 14

Kaieteur News

Saturday April 21, 2012

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

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Security guards apply in person to P.Ramroop & Sons, 23 Lombard Street, with references from previous employers.

LEARN TO DRIVE Prudential Learning “Training to Pass” automatic also stick/manual. Call: 6424827. We’ re #1

For Driver, Checker & Accountant, Good Hope branch Rosignol, Albion.

Contact: 330-2399, 623-5920 Sales clerk porters, drivers with lorry license, apply with written application 2J’s General Store. Call: 225-2350

FOR SALE Dell computers complete with 19” monitor LCD from $69,000. Future Tech.

Call:231-2206, 644-6760 Roofing shingles $5,995 per bundle. Call: Mr.Skepmire: 227-5195

SALON Make up courses, artist trained & certified in Trinidad: 660-5257,647-1773

Going cheap UK used truck engines Perkins 1006 series.

Call: 661-3043

Cosmetology courses. Tel: 225-6026, 682-2604

1 new Centurion 5000 W generator at $175,000, 1 new gas stove at $125,000, 1 32 inch LCD TV at $115,000. Call: 694-5371

Quality yourself in Cosmetology or nails, make up, Register, Limited spaces.

Call Abby: 216-1950, 6197603, 666-5241

Spares for washer, microwaves, fridges, stovetimers, gear boxes, pumps etc. Contact:225-9032, 6472943

Fashion Empress; upstairs Satro Building 10% all hair services from Monday – Thursday 50% off all pedicures. Call: 602-2337

Toyota Starlet 2 E Turbo engine with gearbox and ECU: Call: 624-7155.

For the best in hair nail, pedicure, manicure lashes, waxing etc, please. Call Leoita. 602-2337

NARS lipgloss, eyeshadow & Clinique lipgloss. Tel: 6698374.

American dog food 44lbs6,000, 33lbs-5,000, 4lbs-800.

Call: 628-9119

American style massage services. Call: 609-4036

Bread tapes. Call: 231-8819

Treat yourself to a relaxing massage. Call: 622-6256

Short fluffy puppies vaccinated & dewormed $12,000. Call: 220-4247

WANTED Urgently needed live-in waitress to work in bar, reasonable salary offer. Call: 259-0574

Gold detector water proof, headset & battery charger.

Call: 216-0160, 609-7625 TOUR

Office clerk; CXC English/ Mathematics. Call: 225-4492, 225-6070

Looking for (2) saw men to work in interior, (1) female to work in shop $80,000.

Call:686-2201

Suriname vacation shopping site-seeing 28th April1stMay, trip. Contact Matthew:639-2663, 6655171,644-0185, 227-8290

One male to work in interior $60,000. Call: 686-2201

Sales girls. Call: 225-6631, 9am-5pm

Santa Mission 22nd April.

Joy: 218-1285, 657-0825

1 complete audio system, alphansonic 2400W, Rockfordfosgate 2000W, 1 Pioneer Inbox 5000W, Clarion/crossover. Call: 6570529 Used: QSC Amps MX2000 & MX3000, Roland sampler SP-404, Rcf speaker: 12" & 18", celestion speaker: 15".

Contact: 644-3390 Titan parts, engine DIFF etc.

Call:648-2075 One 18’’ television, white flat playstation 2 along with controller, CD $50,000. Call: 678-3724, 227-7175

Fish cleaners- Eccles.

Call:233-2546, 675-6467 One live in maid/ nanny 3045 yrs, long term employment. Call: 656-1284

FOR SALE 1 Daf 45 flat bed, 26 Ft tray.

Call:609-7803

90 KVA Generator, portable 110/220, 1 phase & 3 phase.

Call: 642-1141. 1200 hrs.

Games for PS2-$900, PSP$900, PS3-$2600, Xbox 360$2600, Xbox 1-$2000, WII$1600.Call: 672-2566, 2653231

Mark II GX100 excellent condition music, set, alarm, HID, rims, 1.3M (Negotiable). Call:698-5046, 696-2721, owner migrating New pressure washers 2600 PSI Honda, 3000 PSI, 2500 PSI 6.75 HP. Call: 627-7835 1 Kawasaki Ninja Bike, 2009CC. Contact: 677-1218, 216-0317 Slightly damage zinc sheet.

Call: 226-7054 1 German Shepherd & one Rottweiler, vehicle gear box.

Call: 647-4040, 696-5151,2200270 1 BM Lenovo laptop, brand new, $60,000. Call: 681-2111 Shipping barrels; blue 55 gal plastic $5,000 each. Call: 615-9314 Peavey Amps, PV-800, PV3800, CS-400, Machie Mivez, EQ and more. Call: 615-9314 QSC Amps, RMX series, AU models, CD jogllers mixer etc.

Call: 662-6024 1 330 Bedford Turbo engine, 3000 PSI pressure washer, power horse 2’’ water pump, 1 ½ Ton forklift Nissan.

Contact: 617-7691 1 Overhauled & repainted Ford 5000 tractor with Boughton Winch. Call: 6619318 One brand new aluminum 15 feet with engine. Call: 6128668 1 Xerox copy centre model C123, 1 Mercury outboard engine 55HP. Call: 617-4087 15-15-15 fertilizer. Call: 2662711, 609-4594 RX7 2002 Model, price negotiable. Call: 223-5273-4 2 Leyland Daf double Axle.

Call:678-1317 Pluck chicken for sale.

Call:682-8236 Eggs for sale. Call:682-8236 (Continued on page 20)

Page 16

Kaieteur News

Saturday April 21, 2012

Psychiatric Hospital Administrator ... patients were indeed eating confronts allegations out of peanut butter bottles

By Leon Suseran The Administrator of the National Psychiatric Hospital, on Thursday, responded to several issues concerning her institution. Recently there have been accusations and damning allegations about conditions at the hospital and the treatment of patients.

The Administrator, Leila Clarke- Daniels, arranged to have three of her staff refute the allegations and state the ‘true’ side of the story.

They were George Stanley, Nurse Aide; Meena Yassin, Chief Cook; and Michael Crawford, Patient-Care Assistant. However, the meeting turned into a disagreement of opinions at one point.

“UNCLEAN EATING UTENSILS” Responding to allegations of unclean eating utensils and “patients [who] are eating out of peanut butter bottles and flaked plates with holes”, Daniels said that even if the situation existed, no complaint was made to her about it.

She noted that the nurses are all accountable for the items issued to them.

“Everybody knows in this institution that I have strong feelings for my patients and I don’t see nonsense going on

realised that...somebody can bring those issues to the public”.

The nurses, head cook and Hospital Administrator at a meeting with them; they know that, and if it was brought to my attention that those patients were eating and drinking out of nut butter bottles, you all know immediately I would have taken action!” she stated.

“I understand that it was happening but I was not aware of it”. “Why the media got to know before me?”

Daniels then accused Stanley of being the whistleblower for the two articles.

“Where you used to eat your food? We found a dining hall for you, that you never

had in this institution! You can go there, put your food in a microwave, to a refrigerator, sit at a dining hall table and watch TV! You used to got to sit down in that stink ward with the patients and eat your food!” she said.

“I know for a fact that it was you [referring to Stanley] and you must not come back to me! I know that he is the mouthpiece who talked about the things in the ward and nothing could erase that from me.” The nurse began to defend himself by saying that he never saw this reporter before.

Immigration TALK: Questions & Answers Through this “Question & Answer” column, our goal is to answer your immigration questions. Many of you have questions on backlog time and eligibility – we seek to clarify these issues and more.

We appreciate your comments and questions. If you have a question that you would like answered in this column, please email: Gail@Go2Lawyer.com.

Question #1: M y daughter, a U.S. citizen, is sponsoring my husband and me.

How long is the processing time?

Answer #1: As a U.S. citizen, your daughter (assuming over age 21) can file a sponsorship petition for her biological or adoptive parents. Assuming you are outside the U.S., the processing time is about nine months to one year. Note, a separate petition must be filed for each parent – one for her father and one for her mother – it cannot be combined.

Question #2: I was wondering how I could find out about my mother’s case. I recently turned 18 and want to know about my mother’s immigration file. She never explained to me why she

decided to leave the U.S. in 2008. Is it still possible for me to obtain a copy?

Answer #2: Due to various privacy laws, only your mother can request a copy of her immigration file.

We can prepare a Freedom of Information Act request but she would have to consent for her file to be released. The processing time is about six to none months to get a copy of an immigration file.

Question #3: If a petition was filed for me by my mother in 2008, and I would still like to apply for a visitor’s visa, would my chances for being granted a visa decrease (because of the petition that was filed)? If yes, why?

Answer #3: Yes. The main requirement for a visitor visa is to show that you have no intention to remain in the U.S. With a pending immigrant petition, the Embassy may not be inclined to give you a visitor’s visa since you already have immigrant intents (based on the pending petition filed by your mother).

This same issue may arise upon a visitor visa renewal once the Embassy becomes aware of a pending immigrant

Stanley however stated that he agrees with the issues being highlighted in the media “because it must be brought to the attention [of the media] and must be rectified!”

Daniels replied by adding that her doors are always opened...”Me door always opened! Any one of them can come here and talk— anyone!”

Michael Crawford said that he knew the situation of patients eating out of nut butter bottles was happening and “I brought it to Matron Barbara Gray’s attention “out of love for my patients”.

Daniels disagreed about the channel of reporting and argued that the matter should have been reported to her since “the matron is responsible for nursing....I am responsible for administration and those supplies and they know it!

“They’re supposed to report those things to me!”

Nurse Stanley added that he was grateful that somebody

“A WICKED ACT” Commenting on the photographs of unclean eating utensils and a dirtylooking water pitcher, the administrator said that those articles were already condemned and were being stored somewhere for disposal but were “maliciously” photographed by a member of staff who has an axe to grind with the institution.

“It was a wicked act by a staff who is perturbed about something... as it was the staff went back, uplifted those condemned items and brought them to the media”.

She said that nurses would, on many occasions, come and tell her that they can’t find their mops, buckets— that the patients destroyed them and hide them—” but what I know, for a fact is that we always have

day, they eating from it [the patients’ food], up to yesterday I heard that”.

The Head Cook added that there are two main meals, the lunch and supper and if fish is given for lunch, chicken is given for supper. “Based on those menus, that is what we work with”.

“We would never get better in this institution because when you bring it [complaints] it is simply allegations— we can’t go anywhere!:” argued Stanley.

Daniels admitted that there are times at the facility when “things don’t always be as they should be— since I came here, this institution has seen marked improvement!”

“SNAKES CRAWLING UP STEPS OF WARDS” Stanley reported that a snake was killed this past week o n t h e s t e p . T h e administrator replied that “this is a bushy area...What can we do? We are near the

“I understand that it was happening but I was not aware of it”. - Clarke- Daniels things available so that they can get the stuff”.

“TERRIBLE FOOD” In the presence of the Head Cook, Daniels showed this newspaper a menu for the week with the specific meals given to patients, after allegations of patients being given “fish, fish, fish all day; these patients does get fed up of the fish” and that the food was “terrible”.

The Administrator said that “it get some of them [nurses] sitting down right in front of them [the patients] eating out their food...every

creek. Regardless of what state the compound is in, you will still find snakes; the buildings are low”. She was grateful that no patient or staff was ever bitten by a snake.

She added the staff “must see and acknowledge the progress that has been made and let us build on that progress, and not look back on the negatives....and I want that if they have a problem, let them come to me. “ if I can’t deal with it, I would understand them going beyond me, as we had agreed with the lighting situation”.

Ministry workers were ...

Gail S. Seeram petition.

Question #4: My mom is a US citizen and filed for me in 2009 as Family 2B preference, she got the approval letter in 2010. How much longer do I have to wait before I get to the U.S.?

Answer #4: According to the April 2012 visa bulletin, for Family 2B, visas are being issued for petitions filed on or before January 15, 2004. So, you have about a five-year wait from today.

Question #5: Has the threshold age at the U.S. Embassy really changed from 21 to 25?

Answer #5: No, to qualify as a “child” you must be under age 21 at the time the visa is available at the Embassy.

From page 8 through the regular channel, the Public Service Commission, is using the tactic of hiring their supporters in positions on contract at salaries superior to what is paid for that post in the traditional public service.

“Further, the employees are not guaranteed security of tenure and the renewal of the contracts is at the whims and fancy of the political directorate.

This is viewed as a measure of keeping the employees in line.”

GPSU stressed that it sees the hiring of contract workers as politicizing the public service and compromising its professionalism and credibility to deal with the general public in a fair and even handed manner.

“It is also being exploited for “union busting”. This is evident from the complaint received from some contracted workers that if they were to

join the union their services will be terminated. Moreover, they were debarred from taking part in union activities.”

The union said this was evident with the creation of National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute and Guyana Livestock Development Authority which saw people who were on the Permanent Pensionable Establishment, some with over 20 years service at the Ministry of Agriculture, being transferred to a contractual status with no security of tenure and nothing to which they can look forward to at their time of retirement.

“These are the undesirable service which the GPSU is objecting to and continuously pursues representation to have corrected. The government is so bent on pursuing this type of activity that through its channel (that) it is coercing public workers to resign and

reapply for contractual employment if they want to be promoted.”

According to GPSU, it sees the developments as very dangerous and placing the premier workforce of this country which should enjoy the confidence and trust of all the citizenry in a very untenable and risky situation.

The protest in front of Public Buildings on Wednesday stemmed from a proposal by the Alliance For Change (AFC) to slash the budget of several government ministries as it relates to contract workers. The Parliamentary Opposition party is of the view that a number of Government supporters were being paid super-salaries.

However, several workers of the Ministries led by Ministers, protested in front of Public Buildings where the 2012 Budget is currently being considered for passage.

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

Page 17

Rustlers wreak havoc Sexual minority are victims of in East Coast Berbice rampant discrimination - study finds Cattle farmers in the No. 19 area are at their wits’ end and are calling on the authorities to help as cattle rustlers continue their rampage.

The latest hit occurred between Wednesday April 18 and April 19 on the cattle farm of Leslie Budhoo, called Milkman and Breds, of No. 19 Village. Three of his cows were stolen and slaughtered.

According to his brotherin-law Manoj, the man penned his cattle around 17:00 hrs on Wednesday evening at Suzannah and left for his home. On Thursday, he went on his usual rounds to check on his animals and to do some milking. To his shock three of his cows were missing.

Manoj stated that Budhoo contacted him and together with others, they decided to mount a search.

He stated that about a mile away in the No 11 Lewis Manor area they made a gruesome discovery; they found two cow heads, guts and skin in a trench. One of the cows was heavy with calf and the unborn calf was found nearby.

In all they found two heads, three skins and three set of guts and the still born calf nearby.

“All the cows are milking cows”, Manoj said. “The persons who committed such acts are criminals”, he added.

The animals were valued at over $600,000. The police were contacted and are carrying out investigations. No one has been arrested so far.

Another brother-in-law, Steven Saul, of Don Robin

Pictures of the slaughtered cows - heads, skins and the unborn calf still in the cow guts. farm, suffered a similar fate on Good Friday. He stated that he rears over 100 head of cattle about half-mile away at Chadwick farm.

He said that he rounded up his cattle on Holy Thursday evening and left for home. On Good Friday morning when he went to do his usual chores he notice his cow pen broken and two of his best milking cows missing.

He decided to follow a trail and was horrified with what he saw.

The place was full of blood and messy. He further discovered one head, two sets of guts and one skin strewn about. The cows all had

young calves that were dependent solely on the milk for their survival.

He stated that a report was made to the police who subsequently visited the scene. A suspect was identified and the police made a check on the suspect’s premises at Rose Hall Town.

They found meat in the man’s freezer. The beef was full of mud and vegetation (grass and black sage and other shrubs) similar to those found at the scene where the cows were slaughtered.

The beef was seized and taken to the Central Police station and later confirmed by (continued on page 18)

The Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Guyana Constitution include rights to equal protection, freedom of movement, freedom of expression and freedom from inhuman treatment.

It was with this in mind that a study was conducted by former lecturer of the University of Guyana, Dr. Christopher Carrico, with a view to creating conditions conducive to the violation of these basic rights for persons who make up the gay community.

Funded by the British High Commissions for Guyana and Barbados, the findings of the revealing study entitled “Collateral Damage: The Social Impact of Laws Affecting LGBT Persons in Guyana” was launched yesterday at the CIDA building, Main Street.

Commissioned approximately one year ago by the University of West Indies’ Faculty of Law Rights Advocacy Project (U-RAP), the study is arguably the first such study done in Guyana and perhaps the Region.

It was designed to assess the effects of the enforcement, or the implicit or explicit threat of enforcement of laws against sodomy, same sex sexual activity, cross-dressing, loitering and vagrancy.

Because of a law enacted in 1893, persons found guilty of buggery in Guyana can be sentenced with up to life imprisonment. Guyana also has laws against ‘gross indecency’ between males, and cross-dressing. These crimes carry punishments of

up to two years imprisonment, and fines of not less than $7,000 respectively.

One of the main claims of this study is that even though some of these laws are not heavily enforced, “there are many ways in which judgments are made, and punishments are meted out long before there are trials.”

The Carrico Study adds that “there are many effects that a law can have without charges for sodomy ever being prosecuted.”

Direct feedback was compiled from lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Guyanese, who gave their accounts on the effects of these laws.

The respondents spoke openly on a range of issues including a number of injuries that were directly inflicted by the police and the courts, such as police harassment and abuse, arrest, prosecution, and conviction of crimes.

Dr. Carrico argued that the vagueness of some of the crimes gives law enforcement officers wide discretion to harass sexual minorities even though the laws have applicability beyond LGBT communities.

Many respondents in the study expressed apprehension about reporting crimes that had been committed against them, fearing that charges may be brought against them.

According to the study, many of the crimes committed against sexual and gender minorities are enabled because perpetrators know they will not be punished, or believe

that they are privately enforcing the law.

The research conducted also examined the background effects of these laws in social control, surveillance and discipline in the wider society.

The study reveals, too, that the existence of these laws has affected all aspect of the lives of the respondents, including access to public entitlements like health care or social services.

It further emphasised that one of the major effects of these laws was the degree to which sexual and gender minorities felt that they needed to regulate their normal behaviour at the workplace in order to have access to employment and a means of livelihood.

It is believed that while few consenting adults are arrested and brought to trial for the ‘unnatural’ sex crimes, these laws pose little risk or harm to the human rights of sexual minorities.

However, Dr. Carrico has been able to ascertain that his qualitative study undertaken in the Georgetown area plainly disputes this and points to a range of serious negative social effects that can be related to the continued existence of certain laws.

It is believed that the findings can provide the basis for a more informed discussion on the implications of laws affecting sexual minorities in the Caribbean by parliamentarians, policymakers, lawyers, civil society, faith-based groups and ordinary citizens.

Senior EU official to inspect Enmore packaging plant, sea defense projects A senior official of the European Union is set to visit Guyana next week to inspect several projects and to assess the country’s capacity with the programmes of that body.

According to the EU yesterday, Jolita Butkeviciene, Director of Latin America and the Caribbean of European Commission’s Directorate for Development and Cooperation (DEVCO), will be here on Monday on a working visit that will enable her to assess Guyana’s capacity to improve in its development cooperation relations.

Among other things, Director Butkeviciene will visit key projects supported with EU funding, including the sea defences, the Ogle International Airport and the Mangrove Restoration Projects.

She will also have discussions with

EU’s Jolita Butkeviciene representatives of the sugar industry and visit the operations of the Guyana Sugar Corporation at Enmore.

The EU had financed the construction of a sugar packaging plant there.

During her three-day visit, Butkeviciene will meet with

President Donald Ramotar; Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds; Foreign Affairs Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett; Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh; Minister for Public Works, Robeson Benn and Speaker of National A s s e m b l y, Raphael Trotman.

She will also meet with the Leader of the Opposition David Granger; private sector representatives, ambassadors of neighboring countries; the British, Canadian and American Heads of Mission, as well as the acting Secretary General of CARICOM and the Director General of CARIFORUM. “At the end of her mission on Wednesday, Butkeviciene will be in a position to better assess Guyana’s capacity to deal effectively with the EU and to better program EU development cooperation as

A senior EU official is set to carry out inspections on a number of projects a consequence.

Her visit also marks an historic milestone in EU/

Guyana relations as it is the first for a high level official from the EU Headquarters in

Brussels under the 10th EDF programme cycle which began in 2007.”

Page 18

Kaieteur News

Sophia man remanded for discharging loaded firearm and armed robbery An E-Field Sophia man will be kept in state custody until May 16, because he was remanded for allegedly firing a gun at a man who he reportedly intended to kill.

The defendant, 25-yearold O’Neil Simon, was also charged for reportedly using the gun to rob the victim, Arlene Jefferson, a Brazilian national, of one cell phone valued at $92,000 and $180,000 in cash.

The man appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine- Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was not required to plead to the two offences.

The police prosecutor told the court that on April 10, last, at Third Street, Alberttown, Georgetown around 20:00 hours, the victim parked his car and proceeded through a passageway heading to his home.

The defendant reportedly walked up to the victim and demanded that he hand over all his valuables.

Jefferson, according to the police, objected to giving the alleged gunman anything and was therefore shot once in the right side of his stomach.

The police continued that the victim was hospitalized for four days.

Jefferson then suffered a relapse and was forced to be hospitalized again.

An application for bail not to be granted was made by the prosecutor who argued that for the seriousness of the offence the defendant should be remanded. The police further claimed that the condition of the victim was reason enough for the defendant to remain in custody.

Defence Attorney Basil Williams represented Simon and related to the court that to his knowledge the victim was released from the hospital two weeks ago, and the police, now seeking to convince the court that he was again hospitalized had to present some form of documentation.

He continued that the police failed to inform the court that the victim is a Brazilian national and that the victim and the defendant were known to each other. He argued that it was because of this that there were speculations that his client was the one to commit the crime.

The prosecutor then rose to inform the court that at the crime scene, a cell phone alleged to be that of the defendant was found and

while on an identification parade, two eyewitnesses reportedly fingered Simon as being the shooter.

Williams again counteracted the prosecutor ’s claims. He reiterated that because the persons are known to each other, his client was assumed to be the perpetrator.

The lawyer further injected that it was a regular habit of the police “to go into the back of the Sophia area and pick up those young men when something happens.”

It was also revealed by the lawyer that Simon had been attending court for another matter and it was on Wednesday last while in court that he was arrested for the present offence. It is therefore obvious, the lawyer urged, that Simon would make himself present for the next court date.

Taking the side of the police and considering that the victim was again hospitalized, the court remanded the defendant to jail and transferred the matter to Court Three for a date to be assigned.

Magistrate Judy Latchman further remanded the defendant and gave him a date for the commencement of his trial.

Lindeners vow to resist Govt. moves to acquire ...

From page 9 attempt to wrest the cooperative from them as even more despicable, both “for the manner of its conveyance as well as for its intent.”

During the more than twohour long meeting, the members were sensitized by the Committee of Management about the importance of a possible dissolution of the COOP. Of major concern to the members were the increased electricity rates they would have to pay with the merger of LUSCSL and LECI, which would automatically come under the National grid.

Added to that, there is likely to be massive staff reduction, with possibly only the meter readers being assured of their positions.

At present LUSCSL employs about 50 persons. Of that number, only four are employed in the meter reading area, informed sources revealed.

Members are therefore adamant that no merger should take place, as even more people would join the ranks of the unemployed, in a town where unemployment is more than seventy percent.

LUSCSL currently purchases electricity from

lECI, which it then distributes to its 4000 plus members.

Its owners and the members have unanimously vowed not to relinquish this important entity.

They have called for a complete retraction of this attempt to nationalize the LUSCSL, and are demanding the immediate grant of an Electricity Distribution Licence.

LUSCSL has been providing the people on the Wismar shore with electricity for over 50 years. The Cooperative was formed with just about 25 persons. Today the entity boasts more than 4,000 members.

It is managed by a Committee of Management, which is headed by the Chairman Valerie Adams Patterson.

Patterson became the first female to become Chairman of the entity when it was handed back to its members in September 2007.

The Committee of Management now proudly boasts that the institution is run more efficiently than GPL. “When we took over in 2007, LUSCSL had a back debt of $50 million, and we have broken that down to $23 million in five years-we pay our

bills”, Adams Patterson pointed out.

Among those in attendance at the meeting and showing solidarity with the members were executives of the AFC, including Gerhardt Ramsaroop and political activist Freddie Kissoon.

Both Ramsaroop and Kissoon exhorted the members to continue to fight resolutely for what is theirs.

Cane-cutter hangs himself on mango tree

Dead: Mohamed Jameel Shakoor A 36-year-old cane-cutter succeeded “in his two-inone” attempt to end his own life when he attempted to hang himself from a mango tree at the back of his home on Thursday morning. He died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) yesterday.

The man, Mohamed Jameel Shakoor who resided at Lot 48 Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara (WCD) with his parents and sister, is also believed to have gulped “some poisonous substance” before hanging himself.

The dead man’s sister, Bibi Halima Mohamed, told Kaieteur News that she was at home when she heard her brother shout out for her a few times and said “Babbo look your brother is gonna fly like a kite.”

She said she ignored him because he was under the influence of alcohol but after “the place became all silent I went at the back to see what happen and is then I see him hanging from the tree with a rope.”

Halima Mohamed said she cut the rope from the tree and ran around the yard, shouting for help.

“The rope around his neck was tight; it was so tight that his skin was over the rope and I couldn’t cut it.”

Guard fined $10,000 for slapping student Security Guard, Gillian Blair, 45, of Main Street, Cumberland was fined $10,000 on Wednesday by Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Reliance Magistrate’s Court in Canje for slapping 13-year-old Devi Singh of Cumberland, and a student of the Vryman’s Erven Secondary Annexe on March 27, 2012. The incident occurred in the Head teacher’s office.

The guard had been summoned to the office after the teen had reported to her head teacher of being harassed by Blair. During the discourse in the office, Blair slapped the student and was immediately escorted out of

Saturday April 21, 2012

the office. Charges were later laid.

The woman pleaded guilty. She stated that she just “tipped the child on her head with her finger”. However, the police prosecutor related to the Magistrate that the woman slapped the child in front of the Head teacher.

While laying down the ruling and fine, the Magistrate warned Blair not to “touch anybody’s children”. The Magistrate also expressed solidarity with the child’s mother concerning the incident.

The guard has since been transferred from that school location.

The dead man’s father pointing to the tree on which his son hanged himself She said after she did not receive any assistance, she herself cut the rope and rushed her brother to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he was immediately transferred to the Intensive Care Unit of the GPHC. The 36-year-old man’s father, Mohamed Jameel Shakur claimed that the doctor at GPHC told him that his son had ingested “some poison substance before he

hang heself because he was not responding to the treatments.”

Kaieteur News understands that Jameel Shakoor was not in any relationship but he was previously married and had been separated for almost ten years now.

“Everything here was ok but I don’t know if he had any problem at work because he didn’t tell me anything. He was normal,” the sister claimed.

Moruka man found floating in Pomeroon River While police continue to probe the circumstances surrounding the death of 53year-old Arnold Abraham, of Seven Miles Moruka, North West District, Abraham’s family has said that the family members are not ruling out foul play, since the now dead Abraham reportedly was encountering domestic problems with his family.

The body was found floating in the Pomeroon River at Charity yesterday morning, Sebastian Abraham, Arnold’s brother who positively identified the body, said that his brother went

missing on Tuesday last.

According to Sebastian, his brother left his Moruka home that Tuesday and was drinking at a Liquor bar. The word was that he was returning home when he fell overboard.

Abraham said his brother cannot swim and that may have caused him to drown.

While no marks of violence were spotted on Abraham’s body, his brother said he is not ruling out foul play!

Arnold Abraham’s body was taken to the Oscar Joseph Hospital mortuary to await a post Mortem report.

Rustlers wreak ...

From page 17 a Veterinary officer as that of the same animals slaughtered.

He stated that the calves might not survive since they are not using milk from the other cows. He put his losses at over $300,000.

Saul is disappointed that the man was released the next day and has not been charged as yet. When he checked with the police he was told that the file is with the DPP. The men depend on the animals for their living and are calling on the relevant

authorities to do something.

The residents have put their loss at millions of dollars.

They stated that they are losing all the time. They have lost goats, sheep and poultry and are appealing for help.

One resident stated that all the Home Affairs and Agriculture Ministers are doing is just talking.

They are not assisting at all. The residents have threatened to take matters into their own hands and do something.

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

Page 19

The Abigail Column Ex-wife can’t take man’s trash talk about girlfriend DEARABIGAIL, My ex-husband likes to call to ask me for advice. Our most recent conversation was in regard to his girlfriend and her sexual past, which he knew about before they started dating. He now disapproves of her history and he began calling her unpleasant names. He tells me he deserves better but intends to stay with her until

he gets bored.

Hearing this sort of talk gives me a stomachache and heartburn. I feel terrible for the woman. I want to be a friend to my ex, but I’m not sure I can handle the stress it causes. He has had a hard life, and I didn’t make it any easier by divorcing him.

Is the only solution not to take his calls, like my friends tell me? I’m not sure I can do that without major guilt.

Ex-Wife Dear Ex-Wife, I’ll offer another option:

The next time your ex starts asking you for relationship advice, tell him you don’t like hearing the way he talks about his girlfriend. Explain that it makes you so uncomfortable that you prefer to avoid the topic of his love life. If he respects your wishes, continue taking his calls. If not, because you find them upsetting, refuse them.

And please, stop feeling guilty about the divorce. From your description of your former husband, he is a user, and you’re lucky to be rid of him.

Saturday April 21, 2012 ARIES (MAR 21 - APR 19): This is likely to be a day geared to fulfilling the needs of family. Lesser persons would resent the obligation, but not you, Aries. You have a nurturing spirit. As long as you feel appreciated, you’re happy to go the extra mile (or two). ************************* TAURUS (APR 20 MAY 20): Guilt can be a powerful motivator, Taurus, but it isn’t a pure one. Today you could feel obligated to help a family member with something you’d prefer to take no part in. ************************* GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUN 20): Today you could feel overwhelmed with obligations and commitments to others.

There isn’t a moment free for yourself, not even for a bathroom break! Clearly, something’s out of balance, Gemini. ************************* CANCER (JUN 21 - JUL 22): Those who know the real you find your lack of confidence frustrating, Cancer. Your talents are startling to mere mortals, yet you rarely take credit for all your abilities. ************************* LEO (JUL 23 - AUG 22): You may be in a quiet, reflective mood today, Leo. You could receive a communication from an old friend that sets you remembering the good old days of your youth. ************************* VIRGO (AUG 23 - SEP 22): Today, Virgo, forget socializing, working, and answering the phone. Stay home and cuddle in a blanket by the fire. Get out your old yearbooks or photo albums and have fun reflecting on good times from your past.

LIBRA (SEP 23 - OCT 22): Don’t be surprised if neighbors come to your door asking for a favor – and not just to borrow a cup of sugar!

While your initial response will be to say yes (it’s your nature, after all), think twice.

This “favor” could involve a major time commitment. ************************* SCORPIO (OCT 23 NOV 21): You’re likely to wake up today with a compulsion to clean or organize something, Scorpio.

This may be rather unlike you.

If we didn’t know better we’d say that you were feeling a parental urge, and your nesting instinct is kicking in. ************************* SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 - DEC 21): Today should be a “no holds barred” day as you strategize your next career move, Sagittarius. If you were in the army, you’d be a fivestar general by now - your tactical sense is that good. ************************* CAPRICORN (DEC 22 JAN 19): Today might be largely devoted to household tasks, Capricorn. It isn’t exactly the most glamorous assignment, but you take a certain pleasure in attending to daily necessities. ************************* AQUARIUS (JAN 20 FEB 18): This is going to be a rather busy day for you, Aquarius, and you’re likely to love every minute of it. You can expect to meet many people as you go about your day. ************************* PISCES (FEB 19 - MAR 20): You’ve been working hard lately and deserve the professional acclaim that comes your way, Pisces. As a result of your efforts, it’s likely you’ve received or will soon receive a bonus, raise, or promotion of some kind.

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with Pastor Edson 18:45h - Birthday Greetings / Death Announcement & In Memoriam 19:00h-DDLHOURLivewithJoel 20:00h - Chitrahaar with Aarya 20:30h - DVD MOVIE :HOUSEFULL 2 (Eng:Sub:) *ing Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Ritesh Deshmukh & Shreryas Talpade 22:00h - DVD MOVIE :BEYOND *ing John Voight, Teri Polo & Dermot Mulroney 24:00h - Sign off with the Gayatri Mantra

From page 2 and at least one Government minister expressed dismay at the decision. They were adamant that Greene should vacate his post given that he admitted to having sex with the woman at the centre of the scandal.

The Transparency Institute of Guyana said Greene was unfit to hold high or any public office and called on him to resign immediately.

“The human rights group stated that Greene’s behaviour “violates the minimum standards of professionalism and integrity required of any member of law enforcement and certainly that required of the Commissioner.”

Henry Greene became Police Commissioner on July 24, 2006 when then Commissioner of Police Mr. Winston Felix, proceeded on pre-retirement leave.

Henry Greene gone

Public Buildings now have...

From page 11 2007. That convention re-affirmed the universality, indivisibility, inter-dependence and inter-relatedness of all human rights and fundamental freedoms and the need for persons with disabilities to be guaranteed full enjoyment of life without discrimination.

Persons conducting busi-

nesses at the Public Buildings should be made aware that the ramp is not for cargo but for persons with disabilities.

Minutes after the ribbon cutting ceremony culminated, a truck opted to park in front the ramp, blocking access.

This caused security personnel to rush into action.

Guides are subjected to change without notice

Page 20

Kaieteur News

(From page 15)

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Alpha, lone local club still in with a...

From page 23 get the kind of competition necessary to perform at optimum level in these sorts of tournaments.

Andrew Murray Jnr, Anthony Abrams and Dwain Jacobs have all looked unexciting, but Milerock as well seemed to be below the level required to progress further so even a below par Alpha might still pack sufficient fire power to beat them.

However, they may also know that beating Milerock is not sufficient, but the margin of victory could be crucial bearing in mind Fortuna score an upset over what should be a clearly superior InterMoengotapoe side that have so far looked displayed a better quality of football compared to all the other teams.

Alpha missed to many clear chances even in their clash against the Dutch side

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and will now have to decide to place their destiny in their own hands and not rely on any team to do so.

Dwayne Ali, Kris Camacho and Abassi McPherson have looked jaded and were repeatedly giving away possession quite easily and they will have to improve in that department, while the supply of passes will also have to pick up if they are to create the kind of opportunities for Abrams, Murray and company to take advantage of.

Milerock as was stated earlier clearly lack the potency up front and even though a few chances were created from the mid-field, the strikers were unable to capitalise on them.

The curtain raiser should go the way of InterMoengotapoe whose strike force in both games to date is as deadly as they come

with the prolific Stefano Ryssel leading the way.

Captain Jimmy Patrick, Claudio Pinas and Jerrel Adensiba are all formidable players and capable of producing some exciting plays so Fortuna will have their work cut out to stop a clean sweep from the Dutch juggernauts.

Fortuna has looked good in brief moments, but they too like Milerock have not been uniformed in their attacks and lacked the chemistry, but do not count them out.

Jose Adriano Chacas Gomes, who’ve scored in both matches to date, is a skilful striker and if he gets the support from the playmakers anything could happen.

However, that has been far and few and barring an upset, they like Milerock should face the elimination axe.

Admission is $500 and school children free.

Youth, Junior, Senior athletes go on...

From back page Alita Moore and Tiffany Carto of PPYC battling while Tirono Mitchelle of Mercury Fast Laners and the Daniels sisters of Running Brave Athletic Club will be competing fiercely for the top position in the youth category.

Winston Caesar of Upper Demerara School Athletic Track Club will be looking to dismantle the track and alien-

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Saturday April 21, 2012

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ate Patrick King (11 seconds) in the 100m after running 11.02 seconds to earn second place behind him.

Shawn Semple of PPYC will try to cop the top position in senior category in the 400m while his club mate, Kevin Bailey who took two easy victories for the year in the men’s 1500m in 4:18.6 seconds (Guyana Defense Force ground) and 4:11.9 seconds (McKenzie Sports Club ground) will be looking to repeat his performance when he collide with Tyshon Bentick and Winston Missigher.

CARIFTA gold medalist Jevina Straker will be looking to remain on top in the distance races against her rivals.

PPYC will try to continue sweeping most of the field events when the Long Jump, Triple Jump, Discus and Shot Put get the officials signal for commencement.

Juanita Hooper will be looking to remain as the triple jump winner in the senior category after leaping away with the event since the athletic

season started. Tracy Moses who recently started the field events will try to intimidate Hooper, her training partner in the triple and long jump.

Moses recently leaped 5m89cm in the long jump at the Guyana Defense Force ground at the second developmental meet to win gold.

The senior’s men long jump will be one of interest when Guyana Defence Force boys Ryan Scott, Leon Bishop and Quacy Payne (GDF) clash with PPYC Troy Williams and Upper Demerara’s Winston Ceasar.

The gigantic built Juilo Sinclair will be taking advantage again in the Shot Put in the senior category to continue his undefeated spree for the year.

This meet will be a gauge for athletes who are eligible for the upcoming National under 23 Championship which will be held at the Police Sports Club ground the following Sunday, 29 April.

The Championship was won by Police Progressive Youth Club last year.

Saturday April 21, 2012

Kaieteur News

Samuels brands critics ‘evil’ AFP – West Indies spinner Marlon Samuels on Friday lashed out at critics of his bowling action in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), saying they were “evil”.

“They are doing it because they can’t play my bowling,” the Pune Warriors all-rounder told the Times of India. “If I was hit into the galleries, my action would never have been questioned.”

The off-spinner was reported last week by match officials for a suspect bowling action following his team’s match against defending champions Chennai Super Kings.

According to IPL rules, Samuels, 31, will be suspended from bowling for the rest of the tournament if his action is reported again.

Samuels has faced problems with his action in the past, particularly when bowling his faster deliveries. The West Indies star was suspended from bowling when reported for a suspect action after the third Test against South Africa in Durban in 2008. He underwent remedial

Gayle fires Bangalore to easy win over Punjab

work and was cleared to bowl by the International Cricket Council last year.

Samuels, who has claimed 19 Test and 67 one-day international wickets, said the “faster ball” was a spinner’s weapon.

“I have worked very hard on my bowling,” he told the newspaper. “Slow bowlers these days need to have variations and the faster ball is surely a great weapon to have.”

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly, who is leading the Pune Warriors, defended Samuels.

“I’m surprised that he has been warned,” Ganguly told reporters. “If you look around the IPL, I’ll be honest, there are worse actions going on.” Samuels lauded Ganguly for backing him. “He is a great captain and I am happy that he has so much faith in me,” he said. The 76-match Twenty20 IPL has nine teams playing each other on a home-and-away basis before the top-four sides qualify for the play-offs. The final will be played on May 27.

Caster Semenya reaches qualifying mark for London 2012 South Africa’s former 800m world champion Caster Semenya has qualified for the London 2012 Olympics.

The 21-year-old, who underwent gender tests at the 2009 Berlin World Championships after winning gold, ran a time of 1:59.58 at a Pretoria meet. “It’s a weight off my shoulders and I’m very happy with my time,” she said.

Semenya was suspended for 11 months by the International Association of Athletics Federations but

was cleared to return to the track in July 2010. She won silver at last year’s World Championships in Daegu despite a back problem.

Semenya also reached her first qualifying mark in South Korea but the South African Olympic committee requires athletes to meet the qualifying time twice.

“I just ran my own race and it went okay, it’s best that way and I enjoyed it, that’s why I qualified,” she added.

“I possibly can go quicker,

tonight was just my third race of the season, and I hope to go below 1:57 in Europe. “But it depends on my training, which needs to strengthen me up for the Olympics. I need to last and one race does not mean anything.”

Yahoo! Cricket – Mohali: Chris Gayle did it again. The West Indian smashed 87 in just 56 balls to deliver a fivewicket win to Royal Challengers Bangalore over Kings XI Punjab, at Mohali on Friday night.

Bakewell / MYO Inter GFF U16 Inter Association Jamaat softball cricket continues today

Humphrey’s Bakery & Sunburst Orange Juice on board With four matches slated for today in the Guyana Football Federation sponsored Under-16 Inter Association competition, Humphrey’s Bakery & Farm Products of Kettley Street, Charlestown and Continental Group of Companies through their Sunburst Orange Juice brand have come on board as partners with the federation.

Humphrey’s Bakery, a long term supporter of the federation will supply snacks for the teams at matches commencing today while Sunburst Orange Juice has made a contribution of their product that will cover specific matches.

Both entities said they have been supportive of junior football development over the years and will continue to do so as the youths are the future of the nation.

Matches slated for today, Berbice will entertain Georgetown at the Blairmont Community Centre Ground

from 15:45hrs; at the same time the BV Ground will host the match between East Bank and East Coast; Essequibo will play home to Upper Demerara at the NOC Ground from 14:00hrs with the other match between West Demerara and Bartica at the Uitvlugt Community Centre Ground.

Under-19 kicks off tomorrow (Sunday) Meanwhile the Under-19 Inter Association tournament, also being played on a league format will get underway tomorrow with four matches.

East Coast will be at home to Upper Demerara at the BV Ground from 13:45hrs.

Berbice and Essequibo will square off at the Blairmont Community Centre Ground from 16:00hrs while the GFC Ground in the city will host a double header.

East Bank and Bartica will go head to head from 14:00hrs followed by a clash between Georgetown and West Demerara from 16:00hrs.

Play in the Bakewell sponsored Muslim Youth Organisation organized Inter Jamaat softball cricket competition is set to continue tomorrow with six matches at two venues. Last week’s matches were called off at the last moment due to unforeseen circumstances.

At the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) Ground from 09:00hrs LBI ‘A’ will

come up against Winsor Forest. At 11:00hrs Cornelia Ida faces Mon Repos to be followed by Farm ‘C’ against Land of Canaan at 13:00hsr with the final game of the day between Grove and An Najm (New Masjid in Albouystown).

At the Farm Ground from 09:30hrs Farm ‘A’ play Belle West (Canal # 2) with Farm ‘B’ taking on Wales from 11:30hrs.

Four more teams set to make quarterfinals..

From page 22 potential. A sticking point has been their batting and will need to be well improved if they are to upstage their opponents. Adela Graham and Rashana Williams are the most consistent batters in the team and will need to come good along with the others if they are to stand a chance.

Wiruni Conquerors are considered the best team in the Bauxite Mining Town of Linden from all reports; they are also a fit bunch of ladies.

One of the most outstanding aspects of their game is their fielding which has often

Page 21

resulted in them limiting opposing teams.

Wauvon King and Pamela King have been at the forefront in the area of their batting and are expected to continue their dominance on what is expected to be a quick Everest outfield. Meanwhile, the promotional team from GT&T will be increasing their giveaways as the Super 16 stage winds down. Fans are urged to come out in their numbers to enjoy more exciting matches and to support their favorite teams while cashing in on the many giveaways.

Chasing Punjab’s 163, Bangalore looked down for the count when they lost three wickets for precious little on the board. But Gayle and A.B. de Villiers (52, 39b, 6x4) added 131, for the fourth wicket, in a shade under 13 overs to salvage their team from what appeared a certain defeat.

In the end Vijay Mallya scored over Preity Zinta. Well, not really, but you get the drift. Now that this vital nugget of information has been dispensed with, let us confess that it’s all getting a little too much. It’s hard enough for addled, sleepdeprived brains to keep track of the international calendar, leave alone almost two months of the IPL, which generates cliffhangers and duds by the dozen, aside from too much contrived information disseminated by loud-mouths you wouldn’t ever tune into voluntarily.

This particular game lay somewhere between excitement and dreariness. For a short phase - and any phase in T20 cricket can’t be anything but that - the match threatened to descend into mediocrity, the slow-burning, one-sided, lowscoring variety, far from the gratuitous adrenaline rush typical of this format.

It took Azhar Mahmood, who turned back the clock in his 14-ball 33, to light up the evening, but the night belonged, once again, to Gayle, who decided to eschew risks at the start of his innings before erupting into a frenzy of big hits as the script panned out.

Still, we wouldn’t really blame you if, a few months hence, you’ve forgotten what

happened on this fine evening on the outskirts of Chandigarh; how Pakistan veteran Azhar Mahmood cast aside his visa quandaries to play a sizzling cameo; how Gayle went against his natural instinct of going for the big heaves right from the get go; how Zinta stood on the sidelines chewing nail by manicured nail as Bangalore moved purposefully towards the target.

Nor would we judge the viewer for failing to remember, some days from now, that it was the domestic workhorse Parwinder Awana’s wicket-towicket bowling, which allowed the team from Le Corbusier city to scupper Bangalore’s chase well before it had gained any impetus. Or that Paul Valthaty, the sensation from last season, failed again; or that nobody, save for the half-centurions, reached double figures for Bangalore.

Seriously, how much of a good is too much of a good thing? We don’t know yet.

What matters is that Bangalore, driven by Gayleforce winds, made another competitive total look woefully short, and Punjab, despite giving it their all, failed to gain any points from this particular home fixture.

Last word to Gayle, whose only concern - ”Thank God nobody got hit today” - was far from the outcome of the match.

Scores: Royal Challengers Bangalore 166 for 5 (Gayle 87, de Villiers 52, Awana 4-34) beat Kings XI Punjab 163 for 6 (Hussey 41, Mahmood 33*) by five wickets.

Roach, Darren Bravo move...

From back page and as a team to keep striving for better,” Roach said. “I didn’t have a great time of it in 2011 but I went back and worked hard and I am seeing the results this year.”

Bravo, who was one of the leading Test batsmen in the world last year with three centuries, has broken into the Top 20 for the first time in his career in 19th position. He has looked in good touch so far in the two matches with scores of 51 and 32 at Kensington Oval and 38 and eight not out in his first Test match on home soil at Queen’s Park Oval.

“I had a smile when I heard that I moved up the rankings. It’s a good feeling to make it into the Top 20. I have been close to the Top 20 for a little while so now that I have broken through I will look to keep working my way

up the ladder,” Bravo said.

“I am still relatively new to Test cricket and I’m still learning the game...with a few innings left in this series I will be looking for a big score for the team.”

The two teams arrived in Dominica on Friday as they prepare for the third Digicel Test match which, start on Monday. First ball is 10 am (9 am Jamaica Time).

WEST INDIES SQUAD FOR 3RD DIGICEL TEST Darren Sammy (Captain) Adrian Barath Carlton Baugh (Wicketkeeper) Kraigg Brathwaite Darren Bravo Shivnarine Chanderpaul Narsingh Deonarine Fidel Edwards Assad Fudadin Kieran Powell Ravi Rampaul Kemar Roach Shane Shillingford

Page 22

Kaieteur News

GT&T 10/10 nationwide cricket Super-16-Round...

Four more teams set to make quarterfinals tomorrow at Everest

Wolf’s Warriors Energetic and exhilarating action will continue to be the order of the day when Super-16-round matches in the 3rd GT&T nationwide softball cricket competition continues tomorrow at the Everest Cricket Ground in the City from 10:00hrs.

Defending champions Wolf Warriors of West Demerara will be seeking to maintain their unblemished record when they are challenged by Affiance Storm. Platinum Jaguars senior side will play Speed Boat Sports Club.

In the two female matches, Mike’s Wellwoman play Mora United and Wiruni Conquerors will come up against Rising Stars X1.

Wolf ’s Warriors are always in a mood for war whenever they take the pitch and tomorrow will be no different, Affiance Storm will have to come to the venue with their stormy game if they are to upstage the defending champions. Leading the Warriors will be Azad Azeez, Riaz Karim and the man considered the best softball batsman in the country Amrit Rae who is now getting into his strides, his latest innings being an unbeaten 50.

Rae’s reverse sweep is one of the most extraordinary shots, very often clearing the boundary and along with his wide array of shots the bowlers on the opposing teams are always going to be in for a tough time. Rae is also a motivator in his side and much will depend on him in tomorrow’s clash.

Affiance Storm has been dominating all forms of cricket in the Cinderella County of Essequibo and have maintained that dominance in the GT&T 10/10 tourney. In the Zone final they totally dominated Cotton Field Wild Oats and will seek to do the

same against the warriors making this game a must see affair.

The mainstay of their side is Latchman Rohit who will have to be at his best in guiding and leading his colleagues tomorrow. Rohit is regarded as a shrewd player who studies his opponents well and will want to up the ante as he and his team members plot a plan of defeat for their opponents.

Another humdinger of a battle is anticipated in the Speed Boat Sports Club / Platinum Jaguars shindig.

Speed Boat XI is in their third year at this level, which speaks to a high level of consistency and despite this fact they will still want to keep climbing the ladder in their year’s tournament with the final not far ahead.

They’ve no doubt got the ability with a number of favored falling to them, it’s just a matter of them putting the pieces together and bringing their big game temperament to the Everest Ground. At the helm for them is the experienced Greg Singh.

Standing in their way is Platinum Jaguars Senior who has improved this year and in Captain Albert Duncan, they have a match winner. With support from Dharam Singh who already has a hundred under his belt in the Zone final when they {Platinum Jaguars Senior} humiliated the Tabatinga Hi Flyers. The team blasted their way to 233-2 in that match and is capable of batting all the way down the order.

In the female category: Pomeroon champions, Mora United did well and the momentum they have built to date they will be hoping to maintain; much of that momentum was garnered from their Zone final triumph against the more popular

Charity Emeralds whom they disposed of by 33 runs.

They are a well oiled bunch who has been making quite a sacrifice to play softball cricket and have been involved in other tournaments. Mora’s fielding is the high point of the team and will certainly give their opponents something to think about as they have limited opposing teams to an average of 70 runs while knocking that off quite easily.

Their bowling will have to come good if they are to have a hold on the tested, tried and proven Wellwomen. Their main batters, Renita and Shemaine Williams will have to be consistent if they are to set a platform in search of a win. Skipper Angenie Walcott can be a handful as she bowls quick leg breaks which can be very effective.

Mike’s Wellwoman, no easy opponents, have been doing well thus far and the make-up of their team has created confidence in their play. They have several national players in their side and have been batting their way to victory.

The likes of Joann Van Sertima and Abena Parker and Zola Telford among others have proven that they are capable of overturning any opposition on their day.

Batting at the top of the order, Telford has pieced together innings of 77, 72 and 40 in the preliminary rounds to date.

The other female encounter brings together Rising Stars X1 and Wiruni Conquerors. Rising Stars XI are the West Coast Demerara champions having defeated the more experienced Devas Girls by 16 runs.

Their outfield catching has been brilliant to date while their bowling has also been good with a lot of (Continued on page 21)

Saturday April 21, 2012

Schedule for West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) today announced the match venues for the upcoming eight-match series between West Indies Women and Sri Lanka Women.

The series, which bowls off on April 25 and runs until May 9, will feature three OneDay Internationals and five T20 Internationals. The matches will be played at Kensington Oval and the Windward Cricket Club in Barbados; and Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad.

The schedule includes one night match under lights – the fourth T20 International at Queen’s Park Oval. This match bowls off at 6:30 pm.

(5:30 pm Jamaica Time). The other T20s start at 2:30 pm (1:30 pm Jamaica Time). The ODIs start at 9 am (8 am Jamaica Time).

The West Indies squad is presently in camp at the

Sagicor High Performance Centre in Barbados. The visitors are due to arrive in Bridgetown on Sunday afternoon.

The two teams are using the series as part of their preparations for the ICC T20 World Championship to be played in Sri Lanka in September and October as well as the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup to be played hosted by India in February, 2013.

Series Schedule April 25: 1st ODI International at Kensington Oval, Barbados – 9 am April 27: 2nd ODI at Windward Cricket Club, Barbados – 9 am April 29: 3rd ODI at Windward Cricket Club, Barbados – 9 am May 1: 1st T20 International at Kensington Oval, Barbados – 2:30 pm May 2: 2nd T20 International at Kensington

Oval, Barbados – 2:30 pm May 6: 3rd T20 International at Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad – 2:30 pm May 7: 4th T20 International Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad – 6:30 pm May 9: 5th T20 International Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad – 2:30 pm West Indies Squad Merissa Aguilleira (captain/wicket-keeper) Stafanie Taylor (vicecaptain) Shemaine Campbelle (wicket-keeper) Shanel Daley Deandra Dottin Pearl Etienne Stacy-Ann King Natasha McLean (wicketkeeper) Anisa Mohammed Subrina Munroe Juliana Nero Amanda Samaroo Shakera Selman Tremayne Smartt

GMR&SC Drag Meet set for April 29 The Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) will stage another Drag Race Meet on Sunday, April 29, at the South Dakota Circuit.

According to a release from the club, a full contingent from Suriname is expected to arrive for the occasion to race against their Guyanese counterparts in what is anticipated to produce fierce rivalry.

Among those expected to represent Guyana are:

Rameez Mohamed, Motilall Deodass, Aaron Bethune Syed Ali, Afraz Ally and Danny Persaud, while the Dutch quest for supremacy will be spearheaded by Jimmy Chin Konkiem, Jacob Yacoob, Hans Yzer and Oliver TjinLiep-Shie are expected to make the trip from Suriname.

Meanwhile, the first race starts at 12:00 hrs and admission is $1000 with children and vehicles free.

Oliver Tjin-Liep-Shie

Georgetown Cricket Association’s cricket fixtures for April 21 and 22 Play in the Georgetown Cricket Association competitions continue this weekend with several matches.

NOBLE HOUSE SEAFOODS -Two Days Second Division Cricket Competition final is set for today and tomorrow, starting time: 10:30 hrs - GNIC vs University of Guyana at Bourda.

CARIB BEER/FRIENDS OF CRICKET HEROES CUP - Two Days First Division

Cricket Competition: Today and tomorrow, starting time: 09:30 hrs - DCC vs Malteenoes SC at Queenstown; Transport SC vs GYO at Camp Ayanganna.

BRAINSTREET UNDER15CRICKETCOMPETITION (100 Overs League) TODAY - Transport SC vs Malteenoes SC at YMCA DCC (B) vs GYO at GYO DCC (A) vs GCC at GNIC GCA - Ladies vs Everest CC at MYO

TOMORROW-St.Stanislaus vsGCA-LadiesatMYO Bel Air Texaco vs Transport SC at GNIC GYO vs Everest CC at GYO Malteenoes SC vs Queens College at YMCA The presentation of awards for the Noble House Seafoods Second Division Cricket Competition will be made at the conclusion of the final tomorrow at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda.

Gibson fined for criticism of DRS use...

From back page based on the umpire’s interpretation. “I can’t say what I really want to say about the DRS because the ICC will sack me or ban me or whatever,” Gibson had said. “If the ICC is going to use DRS I think they should use all the technology and I think if we haven’t got all the technology we shouldn’t use it at all.”

One contentious incident involved Michael Clarke in

the first Test in Barbados, where he was given out caught-behind but the decision was overturned upon review, though Gibson argued there wasn’t sufficient evidence in the replay to suggest the original decision was wrong.

“Over the course of the two Test matches, the way that it’s panned out, the decisions that have gone against us,” he said. “In Barbados we had a man out [Michael

Clarke] and then he was given not out with the use of the cameras and so on. To us sitting watching it, we didn’t see anything conclusive to say that he had hit it or not hit it so therefore we thought that the decision the umpire made in the first instance should have stood instead of being overruled.” The charge against Gibson was laid by on-field umpires Marais Erasmus and Ian Gould, and third umpire Tony Hill.

Saturday April 21, 2012

CFU Club Championship 2012...

Kaieteur News

Alpha, lone local club still in with a chance of advancing - InterMoengotapoe looking for a clean sweep

Stefano Ryssel

By Rawle Welch Alpha United the lone local club still in with a chance to qualify for the next round of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Championship is in an excellent position to do so when they take on counterparts Milerock this evening in the feature game

Jose Gomez

of a double header at the National Stadium, starting at 18:00 hrs.

In the opening fixture, top of the table InterMoengotapoe of Suriname and Hubentut Fortuna square off from 16:00 hrs.

The Alpha United and Milerock clash is a must win

Alpha’s goalscorers: (from left) - Andrew Murray.

Anthony Abrams and Daniel Wilson. by the former if they are to proceed to the next phase since they like Fortuna have a win and a loss, while Milerock is yet to score a point and judging from their disappointing display in their previous clash against t a b l e l e a d e r s InterMoengotapoe where they were clobbered 7-1,

many feel that Alpha is in a g o o d p o s i t i o n psychologically to inflict a similar result on them.

Alpha, the reigning club champions in Guyana haven’t looked as sharp as they are used to and that may be due to the lack of playing against top flight teams to (Continued on page 20)

Page 23

t r o Sp

Youth, Junior, Senior athletes go on show from today - as AAG host tripartite Championships this weekend

Guyana’s Youth, Junior and Senior athletes will go on show today when the

Athletic Association of Guyana (AAG) hosts its tripartite Championships at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary from 10am. The competition will continue tomorrow.

The National Youth, Junior and Senior Championships will feature numerous top track and field athletes from various clubs across the ‘Land of Many Waters’. Spectators will have a grand treat, which is as a result of the AAG registering maximum athletes.

C A R I F TA a t h l e t e s , Andrea Foster, Stephan

James both of Running Brave Athletic Club (RBAC), Tevin Garraway of Police Progressive Youth Club (PPYC), Chavez Ageday of Rualites Track Club (RTC), Davin Fraser of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and Samuel Kaitan will be looking to set the track ablaze when they assemble at the start line for their respective races.

Foster, who clocked 4:57.28 seconds in the girl’s under-17 1500m in Bermuda at the CARIFTA Games to earn a bronze medal, will look to continue that form.

The talented middle-

Gibson fined for criticism of DRS use Ottis Gibson ESPNcricinfo - West Indies coach Ottis Gibson has been fined 20% of his match fee for criticising the lack of consistency in the use of the DRS. His comments, made during the second Test between West Indies and

Australia in Port-of-Spain, were found to be breaching the ICC Code of Conduct and he was charged with a Level 1 offence relating to inappropriate public comment, to which Gibson pleaded guilty.

“In the pre-series meetings it was agreed that players and coaches should not engage in negative media comments,” Jeff Crowe, the ICC match referee, said.

“Ottis accepts that he overstepped the mark during the game and has now accepted his sanction.

“The incident took place on Tuesday when, during the post-third day’s play media briefing, Gibson challenged the efficacy of the Decision Review System (DRS) and its implementation by the match officials.”

Hot Spot is not being used in the ongoing threeTest series for budgetary reasons - as it was not in the recent England-Sri Lanka contest - and its absence meant several close replays remained inconclusive, leaving decisions to be made (Continued on page 22)

Andrea Foster

Stephan James

Chavez Ageday

distance athlete was also victorious in the recent LinWest Games, winning a gold medal in Berbice at the Blairmont Estate Ground in the1500m in 5:19.2 seconds.

The athlete should be at ease when she competes in her races after stomping her authority a few weeks ago in Linden at the McKenzie Sports Club ground when Upper Demerara Track Club hosted the third Developmental Meet on the 300m perimeter ground.

Foster took a double win in the 800m and 1500m against her rivals, Adama

Roberts, Janella Jonas and Cassie George of Linden.

Kaitan will be adding steam to the track when he clashes again with Linden’s Nathaniel ‘Brother’ Giddings who won the 5000m at the LinWest Games in 16:35.5 seconds.

Kaitan the relaxed Amerindian runner placed fifth at CARIFTA Games in the 5000m in 16:54.64 seconds.

The 18 years old runner will be looking to defeat Giddings in the 5000m for the third consecutive time once ‘Brother’ does not put

up a stern battle.

Garraway, the only sprinter on the CARIFTA to qualify for the 100m and 200m finals will be ruling the track in the youth category as he dusts his opponent in the sprint dashes.

Ageday and Fraser will be igniting the track as well, in the 100m and 200m, while James will be reminding the 400m athletes in the junior category that he’s the best.

The lineup for the junior 100m and 200m will see Letitia Myles of the GDF, (Continued on page 20)

Roach, Darren Bravo move into Top 20 of Test rankings

Kemar Roach

ROSEAU, Dominica — West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach and lefthanded batsman Darren Bravo are both delighted following significant moves up the International Cricket C o u n c i l ’s Te s t m a t c h rankings.

The two 23-year-olds, who are expected to form part of the future of West Indies cricket, have broken into the Top 20 in bowling and batting, according to the official rankings released on Friday by the ICC after the drawn second Digicel Test at Queen’s Park Oval.

Ve t e r a n l e f t - h a n d e r Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who fell just six short of his 26th Test century in Trinidad to follow-up his 103 not out in Barbados last week, has moved into the Top 3 in batting, while captain Darren

Sammy has moved up two places to Number 11 in the rankings for allrounders.

The highly-impressive Roach recorded figures of 27-5-105-5 and 18-4-41-5 in Trinidad. The lion-hearted performance earned him a jump of 16 places and puts him in 18th position.

He is now the West Indies’ highest-ranked bowler with Sammy and Fidel Edwards occupying 22nd and 27th positions, respectively. Roach has so far taken 15 wickets in two matches in the Digicel Series at the impressive average of 17.53 runs per wicket.

“It feels great to make such a big jump in the rankings and I will try to get even more wickets and take even more steps forward. It is very crucial for us as players (Continued on page 21)

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