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Kaieteur News

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Thursday August 03, 2017

African Guyanese need to return to entrepreneurship DEAR EDITOR, Prior to 1964, I vividly remember our African brothers being involved in agriculture especially the cultivation of ground provisions, rice, fruits and vegetables. Also, they dominated the construction industry as masons, carpenters, joiners, painters, etc and were involved in the fishing industry as well. As a little boy growing up in Little Korea (Ann’s Grove- Clonbrook), I frequently visited Cousin Tom (Tom Alexander) for the gift of mangoes and other fruits. Cousin Tom taught my father the difference between riches and wealth. He said that wealth increases by itself such as mango and other fruit trees, livestock, etc. You earn riches (money) through toiling and sweating. Further, he emphasised that when you produce wealth, you learn to manage it, accumulate it and finally profit from it. That is what the freed slaves accomplished. Meanwhile, my father’s friends, George Gulliver and Petal Andrews, gifted our family with ground provisions, plantains, bananas, etc while we shared our cooked Indian dishes with them and their families. This was replicated over and over by members of the community. These men followed the examples of their mentors who

had bought the villages after gaining their freedom from slavery. After 1964, the offspring of these men seem to have lost their way and gravitated towards office jobs and today comprise the majority of public servants, lawyers, security personnel, sales clerks, etc. They ceased to be producers of wealth and have become consumers of it. In this scenario, few are involved in agriculture, fishing etc while the East Indians dominate these areas. In this way, our African people are banking their money in East Indian apron pockets since they have to eat. This is the sad reality which African leaders must face if ever they desire to lift their people out of poverty. To do otherwise is to court disaster. Hence, African leaders should provide more role models in agriculture, fishing, etc for young people to emulate now and in the future. Already, we have an overabundance of role models in music, sports, athletics, public service, etc. Talking, making fancy speeches, promising, etc will never lift you out of poverty and create sustainable livelihoods. Our African leaders must show their constituencies that they are interested in more than votes at election time and our youths must pick up their beds and walk. Ed Singh

Do not take for granted what the government says DEAR EDITOR, It becomes necessary to teach one’s self the stories of the past and to accept everything else with a grain of salt. More so living in a pronouncedly divided society doesn’t help this quest for information; the power of the day tells you glamorous highlights of their tenure while neglecting to fill us in on the troubled aspects of a glooming future. A few days ago, I listened to speeches at a rally held in Leonora by the PPP/C, siphoning out the boyish banter, there was actually a lot to be awakened about. There is a crisis with the sugar industry; that much we know and rice continues to struggle along meager price lines with limited governmental intervention, while oil remains a stark enigma to many. The PPP/C was once on the thrones per say and now it is time for another. Sadly the people, you and I- the hoi polloi of society only get the chance to elect those in power

and then we are fed what they want us to know and feel through their strategic political channels. The struggle that it is, we now have to find ways to gather bits of the truth and what exactly is going on in our country to take care of the future. But how does the average individual find truth and answers in such an unprincipled society? There is no easy way to know the underlying workings of what is really happening but there are for sure repercussions for all involved. My contention is to encourage minds to be salty when dealing with what is being pedaled everywhere; do not take for granted the ranting of a government willing to ‘change’ everything. What are we changing to? Is it just a reversion to the past? Think for yourselves and listen to those who were once there, to those who know a tad more than we do. Nafeeza Khan

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The prison system is in a state of national emergency DEAR EDITOR, The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) has been carefully studying the responses to the prison incidents over the last three weeks and holds the view the problems are that of national emergency which necessitate bipartisan approach through debates and engagements in and out of the National Assembly. A situation of this gravity, instead of trading barbs, should see constructive engagements between the President and Leader of the Opposition. The country is dealing with a national security crisis and it’s imperative to pursue collective approach in addressing same and determining a way forward. Both sides are being paid by the citizens to manage their affairs and on this issue where our safety is at risk it must take priority. Reactionary and “adhocery” approaches-evident in 9th July Camp Street unrest and fire, 24th July Lusignan break out, 29th July Lusignan turmoil and interspersed conflicts- coupled with treatment of prisoners and the condition prison officers are asked to work, point to: 1) escalating of the crisis and, 2) threat to the safety of citizens, including the rights of prisoners and

officers. GTUC recognises improvement in recapturing techniques, resulting in the minimising of causalities, and the overall handling of situations which clearly had potential to get worse. Acknowledgment of these do not absolve GovernmentAPNU+AFC and PPP/C-from accountability for putting prison reform on the backburner, prioritising other issues of lesser import, and ignoring the problems that have been festering for years. GTUC is concerned at the level of apathy for the incarcerated, who though accused or convicted of running afoul of the law are human beings with inalienable rights. Condemning them to a life of misery and deeming justifiable any inhumane treatment meted out would suggest society is losing its moral compass, its humanity. The incarcerated are there at the behest of the State that has responsibility for their safety and existence consistent with international standards. Commitment to the rule of law and human decency will ensure these basics are being met. Incidents over the past weeks were bound to happen and there will continue to be similar scenarios. Lusignan Prison was already overcrowded, further burdened

with having to accommodate inmates from the overcrowded Camp Street Prison. The situation became more untenable when high to low risk inmates were placed together and under conditions akin to a camp out or picnic style. This is bound to cause conflict and bring to the fore inadequacies of the security system- including lighting, camera, monitoring and intelligence gathering. The ratio of prisoners to prison officers is also a problem. In this volatile environment there is no place for complacency neither can the Executive do it alone. The absence of proactive and carefully thought out and implemented policies continue to result in logistical nightmares. Hopefully it is not lost on the administration the welfare of the prisoners whose actions are signalling the existence of human rights and environmental crises. In many instances conditions are not better than holding animals which animal rights activists will rightly condemn. GTUC cautions the Opposition in its ill-advised strategy to turn a national emergency into a partisan political activity. The voracious and opportunist appetite to add fuel to fire, seeking to take advan-

tage of crises partly responsible for must cease. The PPP/C is equally responsible for the decay in the prison system having had the opportunity for 23 years to improve it but did nothing substantial about it. Over years the cries of prisoners, families, society and the international community to address prison reform were ignored or given lukewarm treatment. Society remembers former Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee’s response that “prison is not a five-star hotel” when public attention was brought to the deplorable conditions at Brickdam Prison. This nation does not need another Commission of Inquiry (CoI) to admit what has been known for years and not being attended to. In the last 16 years there were several commissioned reports and discussions on the prison system. Notable ones are:Guyana Prisons Ten Year Strategic Development Plan (20012011), British Prison Continued on page 6


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Fake Jamaican accent from deejays screaming noise from minibuses DEAR EDITOR, Some years ago there was an attempt at curbing the noise pollution assailing us daily in public. Like so many things, it was just for a while before the ‘noise merchants’ were allowed to continue unfettered in assailing our ears. On any given day if one travels in one of the mini buses from Stabroek, regardless of the destination, one likely has to endure the extremely loud Jamaican ‘yardie’ music, quite often featuring some joker with a fake Jamaican accent, shouting above the repetitious music about things we dare not repeat before our mothers. The lewdness spouted by this so-called Deejay is crass and ridiculous and makes one wonder what entertainment has come to. Bus drivers and their conductors act like it’s their duty to play music loud whether or not passengers want it. Observation of the other passengers in the bus reveal no evidence the music is appreciated and we are all hostages in the vehicle, sentenced to endure this racket until we get to our destinations. Complaining about the music to drivers involves the risk of being cussed out and the music turned up even louder. One has to scream above the Jamaican racket when one wants a stop. Being a regular traveler by minibus, I’ve taken to catching buses that are not blasting music. This is very inconvenient since it is time consuming, with one in seven buses having the decency to play music relatively quietly. Yesterday, with it being Sunday and less transportation available, there it was again; loud music, the fake

Jamaican Deejay screaming lewdness, complete with the “BC” Jamaican cuss word. I’m guessing Jamaicans who live or visit here get a good laugh at Guyanese trying so hard to be Jamaican and importing the worse in Jamaican lewdness. The solution is simply to put a couple of plainclothes policemen to charge a couple of them and the message would be communicated via the drivers themselves. We also need plainclothes policemen at the Stabroek bus park. During the day a few traffic policemen are stationed out there. I’ve never seen one of them pull in a bus for illegally parking or impeding traffic. At dusk, these traffic wardens melt away and drivers resort to the usual ‘ghettoistic’ behavior. South buses would come in, stop right in the traffic and touters would go to work. Vehicles that come past the northern side of Demico and heading for Water Street via the “Bread-sellers’ boulevard,” are impeded by these buses. Put a few plainclothes policemen out there to pull the errant buses off the road for a week if that is what it takes to instill some discipline. Buses would gain passengers faster if the line up like they’re supposed to. Yes, this may put the touters out of business but, after all, they don’t pay taxes. These are just a few solutions we can put in place to make regular commuters a little more comfortable. We as Guyanese are too soft and tend to accept any unpleasantness as ‘normal.’ We do not have to settle for less than we’re worth. We are paying passengers. We deserve better. Nathaniel Hinckson

Thursday August 03, 2017

HOPKINSON HAS DEMANDED VALUE FOR MONEY FROM CONTRACTORS DEAR EDITOR, The previous Administration was heavily criticized and even exposed by audit reports for condoning substandard work from many contractors in Region 2, some of whom are still bidding for contracts. This unethical practice would have cost the Region millions of dollars since some of the projects would have collapsed while others had to be re-done including many streets, sluices and state buildings. It appeared that many of these projects were not properly supervised, examined and even evaluated by the relevant authorities before payment was done to the defaulting contractors. It meant also that the Administration had to submit additional budgetary claims to remedy some of the faulty projects; hence other developmental work had to be withheld. Notwithstanding, the present scenario has been gradually reversing with the timely intervention of the Re-

gional Executive Officer Mr. Rupert Hopkinson who has been demanding value for money from every conceivable contract undertaken by the Region. Such an approach has also gained much criticism since in some instances payment was withheld until proper verification could have been done by officers including the engineer. Mr. Hopkinson has also ensured that technical officers visit sites regularly where work is being done to ensure that they are completed based on specification and the appropriate material is used to complete same. There were several instances whereby contractors would have used substandard and cheaper material while undertaking contracts, yet they were paid and continue to enjoy the confidence of the previous administration. Complaints were also made by concerned citizens who were generally affected by substandard work though

little was done to address the issue. I am aware however that Mr. Hopkinson is constantly engaging all co n t r a c t o r s doing work with the Region to uphold ethical, principled and professional standards in the execution of their obligated contracts. He has been very vocal in this regard since it is his mandate to ensure that the residents of Region 2 receive the best in the delivery of goods and services. In fact, he has implemented a register of contractors who will be constantly monitored in tandem with the regional Tender Board to ensure their performance is acceptable. Some were even previously cautioned for long periods of delay and even their inability to complete projects due to lack of appropriate equipment and labour. Mr. Hopkinson would have also personally undertook to oversee some of the developmental works including the creation of visiting parks, landscaping of state compounds as well as along

the road-ways. The much admired planting and maintaining of palm trees in front of the Administrative building and along the main road are projects that have personally gained the attention of the REO. Accountability, transparency and due diligence are critical steps that have served to alleviate unnecessary and wasteful spending of much scarce financial resources of the Administration and which would have been enhanced by the prudent management and pivotal direction of Mr. Hopkinson. It is therefore to the benefit and satisfaction of the residents that Region 2 is progressing steadily and in particular with regards to stamping out corruption and having more resources at the Administration’s disposal to undertake further development in the areas of education, agriculture, sports and health. In doing so Mr. Hopkinson remains steadfast in demanding quality and due performance from every conceivable contractor. Elroy Stephney

GPL working to eradicate illegal connections DEAR EDITOR, Over the last 12 years, the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) has removed in excess of 80,000 illegal connections across Guyana. For this reason, the power company will apply new tactics to address and eradicate this scourge. Senior Field Service Manager, GPL, Looknauth Singh told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that his department frequently visits communities with illegal connections and is engaging the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and the government to become in-

volved in the process. Illegal connections which began in 2005 have since destroyed several homes and cost many lives. Singh explained that GPL has observed that about 36 communities across Guyana have illegal connections. He added that from 2006 to present over 3000 persons were arrested for illegal connections after several raids in various communities. However, during those raids, the teams have encountered hostilities. GPL will seek to have those persons arrested. “We began looking at the area of arresting persons with

much more emphasis, since that is the only way we can make an impact in sensitising the people that GPL is ready to tackle this illegal connection in a different manner,” Singh explained. The Senior Field Service Manager further explained that GPL is also disseminating more information on illegal connections or electricity theft through its public relations department. The power company will launch its Customers in Focus project targeting electricity theft on August 08. Public Relations Officer, Shevion Sears advises customers to ensure they are le-

gally connected, especially in relatively new communities. “We are admonishing our customers to adhere to the rules for those of you not connected legally, there is a process where we would educate on how you can get that done and for those who have legal electricity but are determined to pay less in the form of stealing we’ll have to convince you of a behaviour change.” Fourteen areas in Regions Three, Four, Five and Six are set to benefit from this project. Shevion Sears Public Relations Officer, GPL

The prison system is in a state of national emergency From page 5 Reform (2001), Justice Cecil Kennard CoI (2002 jailbreak), Disciplined Services Commission Report (2004), Lloyd Nickram Study (2009), and Justice James Patterson CoI (2016 jailbreak). Sitting on the 2004 Commission was Mr. David Granger who is now President and Commander- in-Chief. It is not lost on GTUC that recommendations in the 2016 CoI which could have easily been implemented were only acted on after the

9th July unrest. The other reports were done during the Bharrat Jagdeo presidency. Recommendations from the stated reports must now be used in determining the future of the prison system. GTUC rejects the idea of privatising the prison system. Privatisation which started in the United States (U.S) in the 1980s has now been condemned by that society and accompanied by ef-

forts at eliminating it. The private sector is profit driven and providing this service is contingent on it being lucrative. Reports out of the U.S and Britain highlight evidence of massive corruption, abuse of prisoners, and collusion by judges to guarantee supply of inmates. Instead of Government funding private prisons, which is what privatisation means, it must u s e t h e money to engage in meaningful prison reform, modernise laws, including sentencing and establishing an effective Rehabilitative Programme. The present situation is overwhelming the prison of-

ficers, stretching their limited resources to the brink. Over the years they have been treated like watchmen, deprived of the requisite skills, staffing complement and tools to competently deliver as required in modern prison system. While the crises at Camp Street and Lusignan have seen reactionary management by the Joint Services, they nonetheless ought to be commended. Their performance, based on the available resources, has helped to contain the level of anxiety in the society and bringing about some level of reassurance. Lincoln Lewis Trade Union Congress


Thursday August 03, 2017

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Press Association to seek legal advice on proposed amendments to Broadcasting Act The Guyana Press Association (GPA) will be seeking legal advice on proposed amendments to the Broadcasting Act. According to an official statement from the GPA yesterday concerning the amendments, the changes to the Act introduces an ‘unwarranted’ Programme Manager by the state in the daily schedules of radio and television stations. This amendment is being proposed for Part Two of the Act titled ‘Programmes’ dealing specifically with Public Service Programmes. According to the proposed amendment, “Every broadcasting agency shall broadcast public service programmes in the following manner: (a) for a total of up to sixty minutes (60) per day; (b) between 06:00Hrs and 22:00Hrs; and (c) free of cost.” It must be made clear that the amendments does not

state that the 60 minutes will be taken at once but suggests that the total time reserved for Public Service Programmes daily will not exceed 60 minutes in totality. Therefore, these broadcasts can be distributed within the time period highlighted above. Further, it is proposed that the broadcasting agency may designate separate time slots for any public announcement which is urgent and of national significance and for repeating such announcement. The proposal also asks of privately-owned broadcasting agencies to provide the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) with a fixed schedule or a rotation of timeslots which the particular agency intends to set aside to broadcast the public service programmes. After this information is provided to the GNBA, according to the proposed

amendments, the broadcasting authority may direct the broadcasting agency to adjust or vary its schedule for public service programmes so as to ensure that the distribution is spread across various time slots. Based on the proposed changes to the Act, the 60 minutes for public service programmes will be used to air addresses to the nation by the President and emergency notices or disaster warnings issued by the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), The Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), the Minister of Public Health and the Government. In the event that the private agencies do not agree that the message being asked to broadcast is a public service programme, that entity can file a complaint with the GNBA within 24 hours. Additionally, the proposed amendments seek to create an offence when any broadcasting agency found

Trial into 2009 murder/hijacking nears end The murder trial of Basil Morgan is scheduled to conclude tomorrow. Yesterday, Attorneys from both the Defence and Prosecution presented closing arguments in the case. Morgan was in a gang arrested and charged for the murder of Woddete Roberts. Roberts, called “Woddete” or “Buck Man,” was murdered sometime between November 3 and November 4, 2009. He was allegedly killed during a robbery. It is alleged that a gang had hijacked Roberts and his two friends in a Tacoma pickup Land Cruiser then took them along a trail on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. Roberts’s friends managed to escape from the hijackers but he, Roberts, was later found dead on the trail. Morgan is currently on trial before Justice James Bovell-Drakes and a 12-member mixed jury at the Georgetown High Court. The trial commenced on July 15, last. Last week a voir dire was conducted to determine certain legal issues in the matter The case will be summed up by the judge and sent to the jury for deliberations on an outcome on Friday. Earlier in the trial, Crime Scene photographer, Detective Desmond Johnny, tendered several photographs taken at a crime scene for a murder which took place in November 2009. In his evidence, Detective Johnny provided the court with details of the crime scene of Woddete Roberts’s murder. Johnny told the court that he went to a scene following reports of an alleged murder committed at Dora, Soesdyke-Linden Highway. There, the detective said that he took photographic exposures of a crime scene. A total of 57 photographs were later tendered as part of the evidence provided to the court by Detective Johnny. Spent shells allegedly collected from the crime scene were therefore tendered into

Basil Morgan evidence. Reports on the murder suggested that Roberts left his home around 21:00 hours on November 4, 2009 with two of his friends, in a gold-coloured Toyota Tacoma pick-up Land Cruiser. The men were said to have been on their way to the gold and diamond fields, when they were stopped by a group of men dressed as policemen. The party of policemen was said to be searching for arms and ammunition. It was some time later, that the men were hijacked by a group of men, who duct taped them and placed them in the tray of the Tacoma vehicle. While Roberts’s friends managed to escape their captors, his body was later found just off a trail at Dora, Soesdkye-Linden highway.

GPA President, Neil Marks by the GNBA to have arbitrarily refused to broadcast such a programme without a complaint being determined by the GNBA. Meanwhile, the GPA is contending that the provision for the allocation of 60 minutes for public service programmes will disrupt and violate contractual obligations that stations will have with advertisers and programme sponsors. The GPA’s statement, undersigned by its President, Neil Marks, said “Understandably, private broadcasters should play roles during emergencies and disasters including matters of public health, but the GPA opposes the actual allocation of times or the need to inform the authority about this or for the authority to dictate time slots if it does not agree with those allocated by the

stations.” The Press Association said that it strongly opposes the government of Guyana seeking to redefine what constitutes ‘public service programmes’. According to the GPA, this redefinition is in direct contradiction and violation of the letter and spirit of the definition of public service broadcasting as is laid down by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) of which Guyana is a member. The GPA quoted in its statement what exactly ‘public broadcasting’ is according to UNESCO, which read, “Public broadcasting is a forum where ideas should be expressed freely, where information, opinions and criticisms can circulate. This is possible only if the broadcaster is independent, thereby, allowing the freedom of public broadcasting to be maintained against commercial or political influence. “If the information provided by the public broadcaster was influenced by the government, people are less likely to believe the content. Likewise, if the public broadcaster’s programming were designed for commercial ends, people would not understand why they are being asked to finance a service providing programming that is not substantially different from those provided by commercial broadcasters.”

The GPA went further to state that one would shudder to think that Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, would have given bad advice to the President and the Cabinet as to what constitutes ‘public service programmes’. Nagamootoo is in-charge of the National Communications Network (NCN), Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) that publishes the Guyana Chronicle Newspaper, the Guyana Information Agency (GINA) now combined with the Department of Public Information (DPI) and the GNBA. To properly address its concerns, the GPA said that it will be seeking legal advice from both local and international experts and will also be raising the issue with its affiliates inclusive of the Association of Caribbean Media Workers and the International Press Institute. F u r t h e r, t h e G PA expressed that it stands in s o l i d a r i t y w i t h local broadcasters on the issue and will be using further legal advice to convince the government of the need to halt or reverse the process to implement the amendments to the Act. The association said that stopping the process is of great importance considering the severe consequence the amendments pose to press freedom in Guyana and the commercial viability of private radio and television stations.


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Thursday August 03, 2017

$$B in revenue can be lost if Tobacco Bill becomes law - DEMTOCO By Kiana Wilburg It would be sensible for the Government to press the pause button on the Tobacco Control Bill and consider the far reaching implications for its Treasury. Should it become law, the Bill could actually put the Government’s $4B collection in taxes in jeopardy, according to officials attached to the Demerara Tobacco Company Limited (DEMTOCO). The company held a press conference yesterday at the Cara Lodge Hotel to appeal to the government to send the Bill to a Special Select Committee. DEMTOCO officials said that the Special Select Committee would give them and other stakeholders, a chance to explain their concerns regarding the Bill, including the domino effect it would have on the company, Guyanese retailers and even the national purse. Speaking specifically to the issue were DEMTOCO’s Managing Director, Mrs Maurlain Kirton and DEMTOCO Director, Raoul Glynn. Kirton explained that the

Bill, in its current form, would affect revenue for the government. She stressed however that while the Bill may intend to deter the consumption of smoking in certain places, it does not mean that utilization would reduce. The Managing Director said that this is based on her company’s experience in other countries like Suriname, Jamaica and Trinidad. Kirton said that a Bill that is so “harsh in measures” will have the shock effect. But consumption would only move in a different direction. The official said that it would move from the consumption of the legitimate product to smuggled contraband. Kirton said that this would obviously lead to the evasion of taxes. The DEMTOCO Director said, “Our position is that while we say we need to be regulated, regulate it in such a way that you will still be able to extract the revenue. Sometimes we are chastised for saying we are one of the top five companies. But last year we paid $4B in total taxes. That is a fact, not a feeling.” Kirton continued, “So if

(from left at head table): DEMTOCO Directors; Mrs Maurlain Kirton, Mr. Chandradat Chintamani and Mr. Raoul Glynn for whatever reason the Bill goes through as is…somewhere you start to lose that $4B you receive as a government. And we all live here. We understand that revenue is really what keeps your economy buoyant. And so what will happen is that consumption will move from the legal company to the underground (activities)…” Furthermore, the officials were asked to provide an estimate of what could be the possible reduction of taxes paid to the Government based on trends in other countries. Glynn said that in

Suriname, it was 70 percent of revenue that was lost. If you look at Guyana’s situation and do the math of 70 percent of $4B, you would see what would happen, added the Director. He added, “In Panama, 75 percent of revenue was lost but consumption remained the same. The consumption was taking place in such a manner that it was evading the tax net altogether. The government gets no part of that revenue. And what it forces the government to do is to look for taxes in other areas so as to try to make up for the revenue that it has lost.” IMPLICATIONS FOR HEALTH The officials were then asked if at any point, did the company consider that there is a glaring imbalance between the revenue received from the tobacco sector and the exorbitant costs and strain placed on the health sector to deal with the implications of the sector.

To this, Kirton said that it depends on how one looks at it. She challenged the unavailability of key data which can show and/or justify that anyone who passed away from a certain illness, that it was directly related to tobacco consumption. She noted, however, that the company is not testing this line of argument. Kirton said that the entity is contesting the design of the regulations and how they will be enforced. “We are selling an adult product and what you are doing is basically criminalizing a smoker. On one hand you are saying that you guys can still sell and make money and then you put certain restrictions in place where it is so harsh it makes it virtually impossible for commercial work to take place or consumption,” Kirton stressed. TOBACCO BILL In a matter of nine months, Guyana will be preparing to

implement one of the most regimented health laws it has ever had in recent times—the Tobacco Control Bill. The Bill proposes a number of strict penalties and fines for law breakers; it will seek to encourage a new behavioural pattern amongst Guyanese. The Bill will allow for officers authorized by the Ministry of Public Health to be vested with the power to carry out any inspection, investigation or enforcement for the purposes of the Bill. Any person who denies, obstructs or hinders an authorized officer in carrying out his or her duties; or knowingly makes any false or misleading statements, verbally or in writing, or refuses to provide requested information to an authorized officer, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $400,000 and imprisonment for six months. Additionally, the Bill states that no person shall smoke in the following outdoor places— anywhere on the premises of and within five metres from the outside boundaries of any health care, educational or child care facility; any waiting area or queue in a public place, including but not limited to any public transport stop, bus stand or bus park; any park, playground or amusement park; any stadium, arena, or other kind of sport or performance space; any gazetted site of historic or national significance; any space for the commercial service of food or drink; or any other outdoor place prescribed by regulations. The Bill also lists examples of indoor public places where smoking is now prohibited. These include Retail establishments, including stalls, stores, (continued on page 27)


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APNU+AFC and the messy broadcast legislation The APNU+AFC can be excused for the mess it is about to create in relation to Broadcasting legislation. The PNCR had very limited experience in running a liberalized media; the party was weaned on state domination of the media. The AFC has no clue about how to manage a liberalized broadcast spectrum because it has no such experience. The lack of experience is clearly showing when one considers that the proposed broadcast legislation is demanding that private broadcasters dedicate one hour each day to programmes highlighting government policies. It is an established practice for private radio stations in the democratic world to broadcast free of cost public service announcements (PSAs). These announcements concerns matters of public interest but do not include

propagation of government policy – that is called propaganda. The government cannot through legislation encroach on private property rights by first demanding that broadcasters must carry one hour of government programmes. If the government wants to get its policies across it should use the state-owned media which has far greater reach than the private broadcasters. Programmes on Government policies such as the weekly propaganda stable the Government in Action and This week with the President, are not public service announcements. They are programmes concerned with propagating what the government is doing. It is up to broadcasters to decide if they want to carry these programmes or not. They cannot be compelled to do so since it infringes on their freedom to decide content

which is fundamental to freedom of expression. Once the State begins to compel broadcasters what they should or should not broadcast, it infringes on freedom of expression and is thus unconstitutional. It is unbelievable that in the 21st century, any government would have to be told about this. Public service announcements usually take the form of advisories about the danger of smoking or having open containers around the yard which collect water in which mosquitoes breed, or about some precautions which citizens can take to prevent some disaster or short broadcasts urging mothers of new born infants to breasts feed their babies. Broadcasters usually air these PSAs free of cost in the public interest. Kaieteur News provides great deal of coverage, free of cost, to organizations which

do voluntary and community work. Many times organizations would approach Glenn Lall asking for a discount on advertising some fund raising activity. Glenn would do more than give them a discount. He would give them free publicity because he feels that this is one of the things that the privately- owned media has to do. He feels that the private media must support civic causes. Glenn has been over generous to so many organizations in the country because he feels that he has a duty to support their work. No one has to compel a Glenn Lall to publish PSAs. He does it of his own free will and more than any other newspaper in Guyana. There is therefore no need for legislation to seek to make it mandatory of PSAs to be aired on private channels. The private broadcasters will do it of their own free will. The second issue which

is a mess concerns the licensing of broadcasters. It is now trite law that persons cannot be deprived of their property without the payment of compensation. The APNU+AFC has enough lawyers in its rank to know that existing broadcasters have acquired prosperity rights by virtue of the licenses which they hold. Asking a broadcaster to reapply for a license constitutes a deprivation of property. And once you deprive someone of property, you have to pay compensation. What the legislation seems to be doing is to attempt to squash old licenses and then have new licenses reissued using the pretext of the need for new licensing under the new legislation. That tactic will not work, not in this day and age. The APNU and the AFC must understand that Guyanese are not going to be

bullied into giving up their property rights. The days of bullyism are over. And the faster the APNU+AFC gets that into its cranium, it will avoid unnecessary controversies. The bottom line is this. Former President Jagdeo issued broadcast licenses. The licensees have acquired property rights by virtue of acquiring those licenses. The licenses cannot be taken away in the name of the need to ensuring licensing under new legislation. No way Jose!

CASC participants visit to Red Cross Children Convalescent Home The children living at the Guyana Red Cross Society Children Convalescent Home received a special visit from the Caribbean Award Sub-Regional Council (CASC) participants today. Assistant Field Officer of President’s Youth Award, Republic of Guyana (PYARG), Shanette Dey, said that the visit allowed the CASC participants to give back to the community since they will be exploring and capturing on camera local sites before departing the country. Dey explained, “The (participants) are happy. I do not think they knew what they were

coming to do because usually community service is physical work so when they came and saw that they were going to mix and mingle with the kids they were happy.” She noted, “Since they have already completed the expedition and exhibition, the remainder of their stay will cover learning about Guyana.” This is Guyana’s third time hosting CASC with representatives from Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, St Lucia, Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago under the 2017 theme, “Legend of the Eleven Giants.” Sanje Christie, (continued on page 23)

Dem boys seh...

Jagdeo want lef people wid thiefing property - dem radio channels De number of people who suddenly got problems wid de Broadcasting Bill more than de people who ever talk when dem boys use to protest fuh dem radio licence. All of a sudden people talking bout putting people out of a job and seizing dem property. Fifteen people get radio licence without even applying. Jagdeo just pick up de licence and give dem. Moses decide that he got to check dem same licence and all of a sudden he hearing how de people got a constitutional right to wuk. Dem boys seh if a man go into a place wha selling cars and tek out fifteen and give dem to dem friends and family, then de people who get de cars got a right to keep dem. De truth is that this kind of lawlessness is wha Jagdeo introduce. Is now it sinking home. Dem radio licence didn’t belong to dem people in de first place suh if Moses tek it he got a right. De trick is that Jagdeo ain’t talking bout radio. He talking bout TV. He know that he thief de airwaves and now he want de people to believe that de theifing stuff is dem rightful property. De other thing that dem boys want to know is

since when Jagdeo know bout constitutional right. Rohee tek instructions from Papa Cheddi and travel overseas and fire nuff people. He didn’t study that dem people was being put out of work. Nobody didn’t seh nutten. Jagdeo and Luncheon get together and fire nuff other people. When dem same people try to get a job elsewhere Jagdeo and Luncheon threaten de people who try to employ dem. De constitution didn’t come into play then. However, dem boys know two wrongs don’t mek a right. Yet it can’t be fair to lef people wid thiefing thing. These people mekking so much noise that you would believe that dem got de power to put Soulja Bai out of office. All of dem who mekking nuff noise didn’t vote fuh de coalition and dem wouldn’t vote this time around. Tek Neil who complaining about de Broadcasting Bill. As a Jehovah Witness he don’t vote but he can mek noise. He can’t talk bout constitution because he religion got another constitution. But he talking. That is de stupidness that going on. Talk half and keep one eye pun de deceitful Jagdeo.

Some of the Caribbean Award Sub-Regional Council (CASC) participants playing with the children

One of the Caribbean Award Sub-Regional Council (CASC) participants having a merry moment with a child


PAGE 10

Thursday August 03, 2017

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce can go to hell! Generally, citizens feel that a party should not govern for too long. There is no time frame, but after three five-year terms, voters become fatigued and instinctively yearn for new faces. When the PNC lost power in 1992, even those who supported the PNC felt it was time for a change. About half the population, in 1992, the year when the PNC lost power, were not thirty years of age. It meant the only party in authority in their country that they knew was the PNC. The PNC entered office in 1964. The country generally felt that the new president and his party should be given a chance. In fact, when the young Bharrat Jagdeo replaced Janet Jagan in 1999, Guyanese icon, Eusi Kwayana, wrote a letter in the newspaper urging Guyanese

to give him a chance. Such were the sentiments of the population about a new government. One of the wishes of every human in the country after 1992 was that the new administration would ensure the fear, silence and injustices of the Burnham era would be dissolved, never to be returned. It wasn’t to be. Big and bad government returned with President Jagdeo who went far into undemocratic directions that even Burnham would not have contemplated. And why was big and bad governance allowed to settle in? Because crucial stakeholders refused to learn the lessons of history. Several of these stakeholders were the organizations representing the business community. We knew what

suppression of the press meant under Burmham. The business organizations lived with this travesty. Yet under Jagdeo, these stakeholders remained silent as Jagdeo continued in the vein of Burnham. Advertisements were taken away from the Stabroek News and Kaieteur News. Journalists were intimated, dismissed from the state media and those from the private media had attempts made on their lives. So excessive were the crudities of Jagdeo that at an official dinner of the Manufacturers’ Association in which the feature address was given by President Jagdeo, he urged the business community to boycott the Kaieteur News. Jagdeo was bold enough to actually say that. The Private Sector Commission (PSC), the

Manufacturers’ Association and the Chamber of Commerce uttered not even a whisper of condemnation. For the fifteen years, Messrs Jagdeo and Ramotar ruled this nation, the face, pen and voice of these o r g a n i z a t i o n a l representatives of our business sector had disappeared. Sadly, they learnt not one damn thing from the Burnham era. In fact, one of the former presidents of the Chamber of Commerce, Clinton Urling, became a candidate for the ruling PPP party in the 2015 elections. The PSC was so partisan to the then ruling regime that it has lost the respect of the nation. When the police shot three unarmed protestors in July 2012 in Linden over the hike in electricity rates, the opposition refused the PAC’s

request to be a referee in the negotiations between the state and the opposition. During the Jagdeo/ Ramotar reign, the business community had representatives in the Ethnic Relations Commission and UG Council. In both instances, these delegates acted as surrogates for the ruling cabals. How can this young nation have respect for these three business stakeholders when young people look at how they sided with and became sycophants of the Jagdeo/Ramotar cabals? This fifteen-year period was a horrible experience in postcolonial Guyana. And important civil society groupings encouraged the abuse of power that was even more depraved that under President Burnham. Suddenly, these three business associations have found their voice. The GCCI wants to have a member on the board of sixteen state enterprises, two of which is the GPL and the Georgetown Public Hospital. Why in 2017 and not before? Why not when Messrs. Jagdeo and Ramotar were in power? GPL did not perform under Jagdeo. Did the

Frederick Kissoon Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GGGI) ask for a board seat back then? The Georgetown Public Hospital has been a boiling cauldron of death and sadness and actually limped along during the fifteen years of Jagdeo and Ramotar. Did the GCCI ask for a board seat back then? The country’s only university fell down under both Jagdeo and Ramotar. As the county’s only university it is therefore a priceless institution. The country didn’t hear the voice of the GCCI when UG was dying. In fact, in 2012, the then President of the GCCI told me at the Texaco Gas Station on Vlissengen Road, the GCCI would come up with a statement on the termination of my UG contract. It never did. The GCCI was a political ally of the PPP Govt. It behaves like a political party; it should contest elections in 2020.


Thursday August 03, 2017

Kaieteur News

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Thursday August 03, 2017

Kaieteur News

Intricate Creations to DEMTOCO says court action on Tobacco Bill not on the table represent Guyana at Carifesta If the President ignores the pleas for the Tobacco Control Bill to be sent to a Special Select Committee and assents to it, Demerara Tobacco Company Limited (DEMTOCO) says that it will simply abide by the law. The company made this known at a press conference that was held yesterday at the Cara Lodge Hotel. Present at the event were DEMTOCO’s Managing Director, Mrs Maurlain Kirton and DEMTOCO Director, Raoul Glynn. The Directors said that the company has a responsibility to educate its employees, retailers and shareholders, so that they can understand what the law now requires of them. The officials said, “We don’t intend to challenge the law at this point in time.” Glynn specifically stated that it would be premature to say if this is an option in the future for the company. He emphasized that the company has no intention of leaving the market but there are concerns daily from retailers about what the Bill means for their livelihood. The DEMTOCO Director said that the company is still hopeful about having engagements. Kirton, on the other hand,

sought to stress that as a company and as an industry, DEMTOCO is not opposed to the regulations. In her opening statement to the media, she said that the entity understands the obligations which Guyana has, regarding the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). She was careful to note, however, that the FCTC is a menu of recommendations and not laws. In this regard, the official posited that Guyana can pick and choose what it wants from the FCTC based on what is appropriate for its current circumstances. She said that the company’s principal concern is to ensure that when policy makers institute laws such as these, they do not pass measures that are highly draconian, discriminatory and even unconstitutional. Kirton said, “We are of the view that some of the proposals are not balanced and justified. We believe there are less restrictive alternatives which are proportionate, effective, and feasible and there are several clauses which infringe on the rights of ordinary citizens, and discriminate against many who are seeking to earn their

livelihood from the selling of a legal product.” Even after engaging several members of the opposition and the government about its concerns, DEMTOCO officials said that they were still disappointed to learn that the Bill was passed. Kirton said, “We were not given the full opportunity as an industry, in formal consultations to advance our views, aimed principally at attaining balanced regulation and removing elements of discrimination and other measures that are too draconian in their effect.” She added, “Of significant importance to the Tobacco industry and smokers alike, is that while the bill has been passed, it does not come into effect until some time later. Regardless, responsible marketing of our products will continue to be at the forefront of our business operation. In the coming period, Kirton said that the Company will work with, and communicate with its consumers, retailers, distributors and wholesalers so as to provide adequate information and guidance as it relates to the new law and its requirements during this transitional period.

With her new Carifesta Rose and “Unit-3 Bouquets” creations making waves on the market, Intricate Creations is set to go places. The group which recently came on the scene has been taking the country by storm with its unique creations. After participating in many expos locally over the past few years founder and CEO of the Intricate Creations Ms. Melba La Goudoue is set for bigger things. Located in Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice, Intricate Creations will be among the Guyanese lot selected to exhibit her talent at Carifesta XIII to be held in Barbados in August. The Intricate Creations artistries are a rare breed and are not done by other designers in Guyana. The creations are completely unique and carries Ms La Goudoue’s signature. What is also special and stands out, is that, she uses byproducts from plants for her creativities. Especially the Coconut Palm and other scrap materials. They are mostly earth tones in colors and the pieces are organic which reminds one of an Eco friendly environment and up cycling management. The Intricate Creations line of work also sits well with the country’s Green and Eco

Jagdeo's “people smuggling” and false ... From page 3 this is not unusual since very often people would have lastminute changes to their plans and as such, having verified that all of their other documentation was in order, they were allowed to proceed. Additionally, there were a few issues regarding the documentation for some Haitian children because they were written in French.

However, those were rectified after they were translated into English. The Opposition Leader, who was reportedly speaking at a political rally last Sunday, also said that the country is being used as an in-transit hub for Haitians to travel to French Guiana illegally. This too, was denied by the Minister, who explained

that Haitians have been travelling to Guyana to Suriname and then to French Guiana for decades. “This has been happening as far back at 19811982. Nothing is strange about this. Even when the Opposition Leader was President, Haitians were passing through here because it is the normal route for them to travel,” he said.

Responding to Mr. Jagdeo's claims about the issuance of false birth certificates, Minister Felix said that the Department of Citizenship is in the business of issuing legitimate documents based solely on records of birth at the General Registrar's Office. Moreover, the birth certificate features have been improved with intention of guarding against forgery.

Miss Guyana UK 2016 - 2017 Ms. Felicity Hosannah

Friendly agenda. This will be her second major assignment representing Guyana overseas, having represented Guyana, at the United Business Fair in Suriname. The group of exhibitors was led by Ms. Sonia Noel of the Sonia Noel Foundation and founder of the Guyana Fashion Week. It was after experience that she gained more courage and confidence to further showcase her creativities which are all hand crafted. In preparations for her trip to Carifesta, Melba has been working on some new creations which have already hit the market by storm. She has so far completed four new creativities. The Carifesta Rose has so far been the hit. Apart from the Carifesta Rose, she has also handcrafted the “Unit-3 Bouquet,” which has three shimmering roses that represent the three counties of Guyana-- Essequibo,

Melba La Goudoue

Demerara and Berbice. Miss Guyana UK 2016 2017 Ms. Felicity Hosannah was presented with the first “Unity-3” bouquet when she visited Berbice recently. Also in preparation for her trip overseas- La Goudoue and Sonia Noel collaborated to conduct a number of skills training workshops for differently able students of the David Rose School of the Handicap and the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre. The group is also expected to continue its ongoing training programmme with the differently able children in Berbice and the Ministry Of Culture, Youth and Sport, drop in Center at Smythfield, New Amsterdam, Berbice. At present, the Intricate Creations group is receiving orders from various parts of the world and the trip to Carifesta will definitely enhanced its reputation and put Guyana on the map.


Thursday August 03, 2017

Kaieteur News

Int’l educator calls for continued quality education in the region CASTRIES, St. Lucia (CMC) – An international education official has lamented the state of the public schools system in many Caribbean countries saying it does not reflect the importance attached by Caribbean people to quality education. Addressing the Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT) conference here, President of Education International (EI), Susan Hopgood, said that although literacy rates are higher than in most other low income countries ‘education budgets are, in our view, falling short of meeting basic conditions.” She said that her organisation had received reports about the neglect of school building maintenance, inadequate sanitary facilities,

mould infested classrooms, crumbling asbestos rooftops and unprotected power lines. “Suffice it to say that we wholeheartedly support your demands that education authorities should pay more attention to poor health and safety conditions in your schools and classrooms,” Hopgood told teachers from across the region. “We hope that together we will be able to have healthy and safe school environments move up the political agenda in all Caribbean countries.” The EI president said governments should give more priority to the restoration and repair of school buildings when damaged by severe weather conditions which hit the Caribbean more

frequently than in the past. Hopgood expressed solidarity with colleagues in the Bahamas who suffered devastation caused by Hurricane Matthew last October, adding that climate change was one of the greatest threats facing the planet today. “Yet some powerful world leaders continue to bury their heads in the sand, labelling climate change a hoax,” Hopgood said, to laughter from the audience. “You don’t need me to highlight the impact of climate change on your region – many of you are already experiencing it,” she said, noting that education is a powerful tool in raising awareness of “the global climate emergency”.

Hydrocarbon release at T&T facility causes evacuation PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Atlantic LNG Wednesday confirmed that there had been a “hydrocarbon release” from its Point Fortin facility, south west of here that prompted the evacuation of its staff. But it said that the matter had been brought under control as soon as possible”. In a brief statement, the company which says it is one of the world’s largest produc-

cility were evacuated as a precautionary measure. “Within 20 minutes the incident was brought under control and technical teams are currently conducting checks. The all-clear was given and Atlantic is in the process of advising relevant stakeholders, including the Point Fortin Borough Corporation and the community,” the statement added.

the situation. Using the layman’s terms it sounded like a gas leak … Initial reaction, they thought it was an explosion but an explosion comes with sound but that wasn’t the case. They have indicated to us that now the situation is under control.” Mason told the newspaper that the incident was isolated to one of the four LNG trains and that “all other trains are in operation.

The Atlantic LNG facility ers of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from natural gas delivered from fields in and around Trinidad and Tobago, said its ‘response and safety systems immediately activated as per their design and all staff at the fa-

But Point Fortin Mayor, Abdon Mason, told the Trinidad Express newspaper that the hydrocarbon release was first thought to be an explosion at one of the four trains. “Atlantic did inform us of

“They are on top of it so I feel comfortable that Atlantic is handling the situation … The train in question, activities have closed down for the day so that the situation could be brought to normalcy,” he said.

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SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 6267040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Eagle’s: Re-gas -$8,000, Washing machine repairs, Gas Stove, Plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/646-0966

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Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigration Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496/ 662-6045

Mature maid to work 3 Days weekly, must know to cook . Apply with recommendation @ Key Food, Mc Doom Village.

Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158

Contract cars for taxi service -$15,000, $18,000 & $21,000 weekly, according to conditions, also drivers. Call: 683-6645

Are you troubling with back problems, headaches or joint pains, stress, depression? For therapy call: 231-1284

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Thursday August 03, 2017

Kaieteur News

VACANCY

LAND FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Cook/ Baker for interior. Applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020

MINING BLOCKS FOR SALE @ OMAI & CUYUNI NEAR BUCKHALL GY$2,500,000 EACH. CALL: 622-7563

LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.

One data entry clerk, must be computer literate & have passes @ CXC Maths & English. Apply PO BOX12118 1 Counter clerk, must have a decent handwriting & passes in Maths & English. Send handwritten application to PO BOX 12118 CANTER DRIVER/ SALESMAN, MINIMUM 3 YEARS DRIVING EXPERIENCE, FACTORY ASSISTANT 266 4427 Cashiers & supermarket helpers at Nirva Supermarket, apply in person with written application at 49 Sheriff & Craig Street. Call: 227-5771 One experienced general domestic. Must be able prepare vegetarian meals. Payment $80,000. Interested person call: 623-1615

WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP RATES,SPECIALOFFERS! . CALL: 690-6494 AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL: PICKUP,9-11SEATMINIBUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 6987807

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Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic. Call: 223-7500 Monday-Saturday 8:154:15pm

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Farm workers, live in can be arranged. Call: 661-1585/ 6172032

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Thursday August 03, 2017

Handyman gets bail on simple larceny charge Forty-one-year-old Devon Rodney of Lot 177 James Street, Albouystown, yesterday appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to answer a break and enter charge. he denied the charge which alleged that on July 27 at Robb Street, Georgetown, he broke and enterED the building of Bridgepaul Nauth and stole one water pump valued $120,000, one toilet set valued $40,000, one face sink valued 50,000, a kitchen sink valued $30,000, a fan valued $54,000, one door valued $50,000 and one air conditioner valued $200,000. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore had no objection to bail being granted to Rodney but asked that conditions be attached. The Prosecutor told the court that on the day in question Nauth secured his business and went home. He received a call informing him that someone had broken into his business. The court heard that when a party of policemen arrived at the location they saw the Charged Devon Rodney defendant at the premises. He was then arto the Alberttown Police Station every Friday rested and charged for the offence. Chief Magistrate granted bail to the defen- until the completion of the trial. The defendant will make his next court apdant in the sum of $10,000. Condition of the bail is that he must report pearance on August 16.

CASC participants visit to Red Cross... From page 9 representative of Nassau, Bahamas, said that though he enjoyed exploring the country’s forest and discovering the wildlife, he felt that it was insufficient time to view everything. “My experience in the expedition was really amazing… I saw some of the eleven giants which was really amazing because they were mind blowing and now returning to help with the little children has been great, especially since they are all cute and welcoming” Christie noted. Ochron Smith, also from Nassau, Bahamas remarked that the scenes, “were very different from what we have in the Bahamas especially the animals and it was nice to see the waterfall even how big the forest is”. Kimberly Carlos, representative of the Cayman Islands shared that she was able to conquer her fears, once she saw how beautiful the country’s forest is, especially the animals and particularly when crossing a river where teamwork was instrumental. She noted that helping out at the convalescent home is a great way to get youths involved. “I think it is great to get youths involved right now because this is what we need

out of the youths, … However I enjoyed being able to see the rainforest, animals and even the waterfall, I think it is the best way to explore Guyana and I hope to come back,” Carlos noted. Sarah Brooks, Guyana’s representative, said that while she enjoyed exploring the country’s forest, “it was a lot of walking…and it was challenging but we got to push ourselves to the limit to see it to the finish.” She noted that volunteering at the home is a norm for her and she hopes that it will become the same for others. The aim of CASC is to foster cultural integration and

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Kaieteur News

build the capacity of award youths in the Americas. The main focus will be on the eighty plus (80+) silver and gold youth participants, unit leaders and volunteers who will be exposed to inter alia, certified first aid training, swimming and waterman ship, a study of Guyana and its expedition routes, the award in action, residential project, a qualifying expedition and cultural exchanges. This expedition is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport, CASC and the President’s Youth Award, Republic of Guyana (PYARG), M.S. [DPI]

Scores of teachers benefit from Limited... From page 17 and be optimistic; teach them to be independent and resourceful. Give it all you can and you will not regret the end results,” High Commissioner Quinn advised. He also advised participants to realize that the conference is a true reflection of unity and cultural diversity. Minister Nicolette Henry while thanking Dr. Brian O'Toole, Director of School of the Nations for affording her the privilege of addressing those gathered welcomed the special guests from the United States, to Guyana. She wished them an enjoyable stay and a successful workshop with their Guyanese counterparts. Encouraging the participants as well as the instructors to explore and network, Minister Henry echoed the sentiments of High Commissioner Quinn. “The Limited Resource Teacher Training programme, under which you have all come here to share your expertise, works in direct support of the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goal 4, which speaks to the delivery of Quality Education globally.” Additionally, it was noted too, that the specific target, aims to, by 2030, substantially increase the supply of quali-

fied teachers, including through international cooperation for teacher training in developing countries, especially least developed countries and small island developing states. Since Independence, Guyana has always seen the critical value of two things-“the need for expanding access to quality education, and the role of our international partners in assisting to fill the gaps in expanding that access. “ This is why we've over the years welcomed the interventions provided by initiatives like Project Trust, and World Teach, and the United States Peace Corps, with a new batch of volunteers under the latter programme who were recently sworn in and deployed to communities around the country,” Minister Henry noted. Minister Henry recogniz-

ing the role played by School of the Nations in bringing the LRTT initiative to Guyana, noted that “it is no doubt with great foresight on your part that you named your school, in expectation of the current push towards global involvement in sustainable education under Goal 4.” Also noted by the Minister was that the invaluable work that the entity and its founders have played in uplifting the standard of education in Guyana over the past two decades. However, these came amidst the reality of Government's position of what might be the occasional disagreement on some policy measures, in spite of which Minister Henry posited continues to see the School of the Nations as a critical partner in education and human resource development locally. (Mondale Smith)


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U.S. seeks to slash legal immigration WASHINGTON/NEW YORK (Reuters) - After a crackdown on illegal immigration that has sharply reduced the number of unauthorized border crossings from Mexico, U.S. President Donald Trump is now turning his attention to reducing the number of legal immigrants in the country. The White House is throwing its support behind a bill developed by Republican senators Tom Cotton of Arkansas and David Perdue

and Australia. Trump and the Republican lawmakers blasted the current immigration system as out of date and argued that it hurts American workers by driving down wages. “This competitive application process will favor applicants who can speak English, financially support themselves and their families and demonstrate skills that will contribute to our economy,” Trump said. The Senators said they worked closely with the White House on this lat-

any other action to fulfill President Trump’s promises as a candidate.” Trump vowed to crack down on illegal immigration during his campaign and signed two executive orders soon after taking office to increase border security and interior enforcement. Cotton and Perdue said their bill does not affect temporary visas for workers in certain tech sectors and seasonal jobs that are popular with many businesses. They

President Donald Trump speaks during an announcement on immigration reform accompanied by Senator Tom Cotton (L) and Senator David Perdue, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House yesterday. (Carlos Barria | Reuters) of Georgia that would cut legal immigration by 50 percent over 10 years by reducing the kinds of relatives immigrants can bring into the country. But the legislation faces an uphill climb to get through Congress where some senior Republicans back comprehensive immigration reform, not a tough crackdown. Under the new bill, known as the RAISE Act, the United States would prioritize highskilled immigrants by setting up a merits-based system similar to those used by Canada

est version of their bill. “This is probably our third or fourth visit to the Oval Office to work with President Trump,” Cotton told reporters. Slashing legal immigration has long been pushed by low-immigration advocacy groups in Washington like NumbersUSA and the ideas have been backed by nowAttorney General Jeff Sessions, who is now facing public criticism from Trump. NumbersUSA President Roy Beck hailed the bill and said that it “will do more than

stressed that the legislation was narrowly focused, an approach they hoped would be able to get bipartisan support. “We’re not trying to boil the ocean here and change everything about our immigration law,” Cotton said. But other Republican lawmakers said the bill might be going too far. Senator Lindsey Graham, from South Carolina, said his state is dependent on immigrant labor to sustain the two biggest sectors of the economy, agriculture and tourism.

At U.N., Western powers warn Iran rocket test a ‘threatening step’ UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The United States, Britain, France and Germany warned the United Nations yesterday that Iran had taken “a threatening and provocative step” by testing a rocket capable of delivering satellites into orbit and asked the U.N. chief to investigate. In a report submitted to the U.N. Security Council’s Iran sanctions committee and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the four countries described the July 27 launch as inconsistent with a 2015 U.N. Security Council resolution. They asked Guterres to report “fully and thoroughly

on Iran’s ballistic missile and space launch activity” to the 15-member Security Council. Most U.N. sanctions were lifted 18 months ago under a deal Iran made with key world powers to curb its nuclear program. But Iran is still subject to an arms embargo and other restrictions, which are not technically part of the nuclear agreement. Guterres reports every six months to the Security Council on the implementation of the remaining sanctions and restrictions. “The technologies necessary for the conception, the fabrication and the launch of

space launch vehicles are closely related to those of ballistic missiles, in particular to those of an intercontinental ballistic missile,” the four powers wrote in their report, seen by Reuters. “This launch therefore represents a threatening and provocative step by Iran,” they wrote. “Iran’s longstanding program to develop ballistic missiles continues to be inconsistent with (the U.N. resolution) and has a destabilizing effect in the region.” U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley submitted the report on behalf of the four countries.

Thursday August 03, 2017

Brazil Congress ready to block Temer corruption charge BRASILIA (Reuters) Brazil’s lower house of Congress was poised yesterday to reject a corruption charge against President Michel Temer, a move that would save him from standing trial in the Supreme Court for allegedly taking bribes. The unpopular leader is trying to shake off a scandal that has paralyzed his administration, and has said that he wants to focus on passing legislation needed to end a budget crisis and help pull Latin America’s largest economy out of its worst recession in history. Opposition lawmakers, carrying briefcases stuffed with fake money, chanted “Out with Temer!” on the House floor. Lawmakers voted by 292 to 20 to end debate and move to a final vote, a sign that the government would secure more than enough support to reject the charge. Brazil’s stocks and currency rose after the cloture vote, signaling robust support for Temer ’s reform agenda to cut spending and restore confidence in government accounts. Brazil’s top prosecutor Rodrigo Janot in June charged Temer with arranging to eventually receive a total of 38 million reais ($12.16 million) in bribes from the world’s largest meatpacker, JBS SA in return for political favors. Temer and his legal team

Brazilian President Michel Temer have denied any wrongdoing. His supporters have said that Janot failed to provide proof that he had broken the law. Congressman Alessandro Molon called for Temer to be put on trial and told the chamber, “The charge is well founded. We need to turn the page on political corruption in Brazil so that Brazilians can look at their Congress without feeling shame.” Lawmaker Paulo AbiAckel of the government-allied Brazilian Social Democracy Party credited Temer with turning around the economy, with inflation, interest rates and record unemployment falling, and early signs of renewed growth. “Is this the right time to be removing the president?” he said on the House floor, appealing to his peers to clear Temer.

The lower house vote will gauge how much political capital Temer still has to block additional charges federal prosecutors are preparing to file against him and to advance a crucial overhaul of Brazil’s costly pension system. “What matters is how many votes he gets. If Temer does not have a comfortable majority, his government will become unstable,” said Congressman Rubens Bueno of the Popular Socialist Party, which quit Temer’s coalition after the leader was caught up in the corruption investigation. Temer has scrambled for support in recent days to avoid becoming the second president to be ousted in a year in a deepening crisis fueled by massive corruption investigations.

Trump signs Russia sanctions bill; Moscow calls it ‘trade war’ WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump grudgingly signed into law new sanctions against Russia yesterday, a move Moscow said amounted to a full-scale trade war and an end to hopes for better ties with the Trump administration. Congress overwhelmingly approved the legislation last week, passing a measure that conflicts with the Republican president’s desire to improve relations with Moscow. While Trump signed the bill, he criticized it as infringing on his powers to shape foreign policy and said he could make “far better deals” with governments than Congress can. Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev called the sanctions tantamount to a “full-scale trade war,” adding in a Facebook post that they showed the Trump administration had demonstrated “utter powerlessness.” “The hope that our relations with the new American

administration would improve is finished,” he wrote. Trump’s litany of concerns about the sanctions, which also affect Iran and North Korea, nonetheless raised the question of how vigorously Trump will enforce them and pursue action against Russia. “While I favor tough measures to punish and deter aggressive and destabilizing behavior by Iran, North Korea, and Russia, this legislation is significantly flawed,” Trump said in a message to lawmakers. The new law allows Congress to stop any effort by Trump to ease sanctions on Russia. Trump said in a separate statement that he was signing the measure “for the sake of national unity” even though he saw problems with it. His hands were tied after the Republican-controlled Congress approved the legislation by such a large margin last week that any presi-

dential veto of the bill would have been overridden. Congress passed the measure to punish Russia over interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea. The legislation has provoked countermeasures by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said on Sunday the U.S. diplomatic mission in Russia must reduce its staff by 755 people. Russia is also seizing two properties near Moscow used by American diplomats. Trump has repeatedly said he wants to improve relations with Russia. That desire has been stymied by U.S. intelligence agencies’ findings that Russia interfered to help the Republican against Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. U.S. congressional panels and a special counsel are investigating. Moscow denies any meddling and Trump denies any collusion by his campaign.


Thursday August 03, 2017

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Thursday August 03, 2017

U.S. bans travel to North Korea from Sept. 1, says Americans should leave WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A ban on travel by U.S. passport holders to North Korea will take effect on Sept. 1 and Americans in the country should leave before that date, the U.S. State Department said yesterday. Journalists and humanitarian workers may apply for exceptions to the ban, the department said in a public notice.The U.S. government last month said it would bar Americans from traveling to North Korea due to the risk of “longterm detention” there. The ban comes at a time of heightened tensions between the United States and North Korea, which has been working to develop a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. North Korea will become the only country to whichAmericans are banned from traveling. American student Otto Warmbier, sentenced last year to 15 years’ hard labor in North Korea, returned to the United

States in a coma on June 13 after being released on humanitarian grounds, and died June 19. The circumstances surrounding his death are not clear, including why he fell into a coma. North Korea has said through its state media that Warmbier’s death was “a mystery” and dismissed accusations that he had died as a result of torture and beating in captivity. The State Department issued a notice in the Federal Register on Wednesday declaring U.S. passports invalid for travel to, in or through North Korea. The restriction takes effect in 30 days, and applies for one year unless extended or revoked by the secretary of state. North Korea is currently holding two KoreanAmerican academics and a missionary, a Canadian pastor and three South Korean nationals who were doing missionary work. Japan says North Korea has also detained at least several dozen of its nationals.


Thursday August 03, 2017

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GPL working to eradicate Government on mission to resuscitate Cooperatives illegal connections By Enid Joaquin

Public Relations Officer, GPL, Shevion Sears Over the last 12 years, the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) has removed thousands of illegal connections across Guyana. For this reason, the power company will apply new tactics to address and eradicate this scourge. Senior Field Service Manager, GPL, Looknauth Singh, said that his department frequently visits communities with illegal connections. It is engaging the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and the government to become involved in the process. Illegal connections which began in 2005 have since destroyed several homes and cost many lives. Singh explained that GPL has observed that about 36 communities across Guyana have illegal connections. He added that from 2006 to

Senior Field Service Manager, GPL, Looknauth Singh

present over 3000 persons were arrested for illegal connections after several raids in various communities. However, during those raids, the teams have encountered hostilities. GPL will seek to have those persons arrested. “We began looking at the area of arresting persons since that is the only way we can make an impact; sensitising the people that GPL is ready to tackle this illegal connection in a different manner,” Singh explained. The Senior Field Service Manager further explained that GPL is also disseminating more information on illegal connections or electricity theft through its public relations department. The power company will launch its Customers in Focus project targeting

$$B in revenue can ... From page 8 shops, and shopping malls; hotels and other places of lodging; Restaurants, bars, pubs, cafes, and other eating or drinking establishments, Gaming machine venues and casinos; Entertainment facilities including clubs, cinemas, concert halls, theatres, game arcades, pool and bingo halls. Smoking, according to the Act, is also prohibited at any publicly-owned facility rented out for events and any other indoor premises accessible to the public and any indoor workplace. Any person who smokes in any place where smoking is prohibited commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $10,000 for the first offence, and $20,000 for any second or subsequent offence. Additionally, the Bill makes it clear that all cigarettes shall be sold in an intact package containing not less than twenty sticks or

individual units per package. This brings an end to the sale of one or two cigarettes at regular outlets. The Bill also states that no person shall go into any public place carrying any tobacco product, electronic delivery system, or component, in a tray, container or otherwise for the purpose of making sales or commercially displaying the product. Furthermore, the Bill prohibits tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship. In this regard, local night clubs would have to change for example, the manner in which they promote their hookah / smoking themed parties. Should a corporation or other entity contravene any provision of the Act, it shall be deemed to have committed the offence and shall be held liable for all costs and fines associated with any enforcement or corrective action and for any term of imprisonment ordered.

electricity theft on August 08. Public Relations Officer, Shevion Sears, advises customers to ensure they are legally connected, especially in relatively new communities. “We are admonishing our customers to adhere to the rules for those of you not connected legally, there is a process where we would educate on how you can get that done and for those who have legal electricity but are determined to pay less in the form of stealing we’ll have to convince you of a behaviour change.” Fourteen areas in Regions Three, Four, Five and Six are set to benefit from this project. [DPI]

Government is presently on a drive to resuscitate cooperatives according to Region Ten Chairman, Rennis Morian. Morian told media operatives that millions of dollars are sitting in bank accounts of various cooperative groups in Region ten. Unfortunately, however, most of the groups are currently not functioning he said. He noted that over the past couple of decades under the previous administration, cooperatives did not “thrive” and that these “groupings” are no longer active. Morian said that there are plans to resuscitate the cooperative at Wisroc, which was involved in the building of the Wisroc Housing Scheme and still has money in the bank. Among the other cooperative groups are the Rockstone Community Development Council which has 8960 acres of land, and which was involved in the building of the Wisroc Housing Scheme. Monies are still in the bank for that cooperative, Morian said Other groups include the Agriculture Producers Cooperative Society Ltd in the Essequibo River with 300 hundred acres, Amelia’s Ward Farmers’ Cooperative

- says Region Ten Chairman Society, which made application since 2007 but is yet to be granted a lease. This group is being advised to move forward to have their lease finalized. The Canvas City/Half Mile Development Agriculture Society which applied in 1994 for ten acres of land also was not granted any lease; there was no follow through. Morian said that there are other groups that had applied in the 1990s but had not followed through. He is advising that these groups come forward to be granted their leases as government is willing to fast track the processing of same. Presently, Linden/Region Ten has one of the oldest and most successful cooperative in Guyana in the form of the Linden Utility Cooperative Society Ltd (LUSCSL). Formerly the Wismar/ Christianburg Electricity Supply Cooperative Society, the entity was registered in 1960, to supply electricity to its members, all of whom resided on the Wismar shore. The cooperative was established after some Demerara Bauxite Company (Demba) employees approached the Company for electricity to be supplied to the residents of the Wismar

Housing Scheme. Established with just twenty-five members, the “Society” or “Co-op” as it was popularly known in the earlier days, today boasts a membership of more than 5000 persons. The Co-op did not however produce its own electricity, but bought the commodity from the local bauxite company. It then sold the commodity to its members on the West Bank (Wismar Shore). The same holds true today as LUSCSL still purchases the electricity it provides its members. Several years ago a name change became necessary as the entity was looking at other avenues to garner finances, and diversify as it sought to upgrade its services to the community. Logging was added as another economic venture, in the late 1980s. This saw the acquisition of a tractor and other pieces of equipment being purchased. Another tractor and a wood-mizer were later purchased, to boost production in this sector. An electrical store and document centre was established on the fiftieth anniversary of the entity in 2010.


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Thursday August 03, 2017

Venezuela inflated turnout in controversial vote: election firm LONDON/CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuela inflated the turnout figures for its constituent assembly election by at least 1 million votes, the company that provides the country’s voting machines said yesterday, an accusation the government quickly dismissed as “irresponsible.” Earlier in the day Reuters exclusively reported that only 3.7 million people had voted by 5:30 p.m. in Sunday’s poll, according to internal elections data, compared with the total 8.1 million ballots counted by authorities.

port that gave the Londonbased company no special insight into the election results. “This is an irresponsible assertion based on unsupported estimates of data that the elections authority manages exclusively,” Lucena said, adding that Smartmatic’s claim of manipulation was part of efforts to discredit the vote. She did not refer to the Reuters report. The opposition in July held an informal plebiscite that it said brought in more than 7 million voters who

continue holding sessions despite the election of the new assembly. Last month it also named alternate justices to the Supreme Court in defiance of the top court, which has heavily favored Maduro. Authorities arrested three of those justices, and four others have taken refuge in the residence of the Chilean ambassador in Caracas. Opposition leader Freddy Guevara called for protests on Thursday to prevent delegates to the new assembly from occupying the halls of congress, which the opposi-

A voter casts a ballot during the Constituent Assembly election in Caracas, Venezuela, July 30, 2017. (Reuters File Photo/Carlos Garcia Rawlins) Voting ended at 7 p.m., but election experts said doubling the vote in the last hour and a half would be without precedent. Electronic voting technology firm Smartmatic, which created the voting system that Venezuela has used since 2004, said the turnout figures had been tampered with. “We know, without any doubt, that the turnout of the recent election for a National Constituent Assembly was manipulated,” said Smartmatic Chief Executive Antonio Mugica in a press briefing in London. “We estimate the difference between the actual participation and the one announced by authorities is at least 1 million votes,” he said. The opposition, which boycotted the vote, has dismissed the official tally as fraudulent. A high turnout was seen as crucial for leftist President Nicolas Maduro to legitimize the election in the face of wide international criticism. Tibisay Lucena, head of Venezuela’s electoral council, said in a televised address that Smartmatic’s only role in Sunday’s vote was to provide technical services and sup-

overwhelmingly rejected the creation of the constituent assembly. The assembly will have the power to dissolve the opposition-run congress and is expected to sack the country’s chief prosecutor, who has harshly criticized Maduro this year. Countries around the world have condemned the assembly, which has no legal restrictions on its powers. Critics say the assembly is meant to indefinitely extend Maduro’s rule. He is widely criticized for an economic crisis marked by triple-digit inflation and chronic shortages of food and medicine. OIL WORKERS MARCH Maduro says the assembly was necessary to give him the powers needed to bring peace to the country after more than four months of opposition protests punctuated by violent clashes between security forces and hooded demonstrators. More than 120 people have been killed since the unrest began in April. Maduro is due to swear in delegates to the 545-member assembly yesterday, with its first session to be held today. Congress has promised to

tion won in a landslide victory in 2015. “Now is a time for action, not words,” he said. The United States this week called Maduro a dictator, froze his U.S. assets, and barred Americans from doing business with him. The European Union said it was mulling a “whole range of actions” on Venezuela. Maduro, like his predecessor and mentor, the late Hugo Chavez, regularly laughs off criticism from Washington even though the United States is Venezuela’s top crude importer. He continues to enjoy public backing from the Venezuela’s military, though soldiers are increasingly wary of the popular backlash against their role in quelling protests. Though the Trump administration has discussed creating sanctions that would hit the country’s oil sector, those plans have remained on hold as officials review the potential impact on U.S. energy markets and refining companies. Oil workers loyal to Maduro rallied in several energy producing regions of the country on Wednesday.


Thursday August 03, 2017

Resaul is top performer at the ITF/COTECC... From page 35 whom are products of their school mini–tennis programme, were all coached by Daly and she is confident that Guyana has a bright future in tennis with the current crop of young players. Sekai Akilah Jones the #1 seed of the girls’ team lost all 5 of her singles matches, but her partnership with the young Rashida Hardy produced 2 wins. The surprise performance came from #2 seed Monisha Amba Persaud who showed strong signs of mental strength and patience with long rallies in her matches even enduring a match of 3 hours and 45 minutes to come out as the victor against a Barbadian. She won 2 of her 5 singles matches. The GLTA Vice President and girls team captain, Grace McCalman, felt that the girls were pressured to quickly to adapt to the pristine environment of multiple courts but

they practiced often and were disciplined enough to fight bravely against the odds visibly improving each day. All players learned significant lessons from the tournament which is ITF’s premier development tournament to determine how nations are preparing the next generation players. The revised approach to the tournament defined four sub regions of which Guyana falls into sub-region 4 excluding Central American territories. This was a welcomed move along with the Davis Cup Format for 3 member teams. The recently commissioned National Tennis Centre of Trinidad, which accommodates 12 tennis courts including four indoor courts and one stadium court, hosts the office of the Committee of Sub Region 4. The President of the Tennis Association of Trinidad & Tobago Mr. Hayden Mitchell

is also the President of Sub Region 4. During the visit Ms. McCalman in her capacity as GLTA executive member sought to collaborate with Trinidad officials for specific categories of players to participate in limited competitions in Guyana to stimulate interest for development of the sport locally. It has been a year and three months that the GLTA waits the signing of an MOU with the National Sports Commission to jumpstart the process of developing eight international standard courts at the National Racquet Centre for an improved training programme and the hosting of international tournaments. In order to facilitate coaches conducting high performance programmes, the GLTA continues to depend on the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry for provision of adequate facilities, a kind gesture for which the executive is grateful.

ARIES(Mar. 21- April 20) Your need to get away could lead you into greater debt. Nothing can be resolved if you don't want to talk about it. Plan your day carefully.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Your ability to talk circles around your colleagues will help you forge ahead in the workforce. Take a break; you can finally mend any disputes on the home front.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Loved ones may be annoyed if they feel restricted. You may want to get involved in financial investments presented to you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Travel will also entice you. You can enhance your reputation by making contributions to worthwhile causes. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Opportunities will come through behind the scenes activities. Travel opportunities look positive, but be cautious while driving. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Your ability to put things together will be appreciated by your comrades. Stick to doing things that will make you a better person both physically and mentally.

Burnham’s GOG was last Government... From page 30 a long story and God saved my life without the Minister’s help. The past Government built the Providence Stadium for the 2007 cricket World Cup and named the Stands Green, Red and Orange. I wrote that the Media Center at Providence be named after Reds Perreira for his unmatched contribution as a Radio Commentator and sports Administer. He was even advisor to Sports Minister Shirley Field-Ridley but my articles were like throwing water on a duck’s back. So after voting for the PPP in 1992, I voted for the Collation Government which promised change. I am contented with the standard of my personal life which has not changed much under both Governments. But I voted for change because of sports, in particular Cricket. But most things in Guyana, included Sports, have remained the same or gotten worse …so much for change. Mr. Trim, when our Championship winning 2016 U-19 World Cup players returned to the Caribbean they were greeted with motorcades but the Guyanese,

World Athletics...

Thursday August 03, 2017

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Your self esteem will come back if you take part in organizational functions that allow you to be in the lime light. You're in the mood for love.

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Kaieteur News

The key to feeling good about yourself will be to do something about it. Be prepared to lose friends or alienate other people if you insist on being stubborn. SAGIT. (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Get out and rub shoulders with people in high positions if possible. This will be a great night to invite friend over to visit. CAPRI. (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You should channel your efforts into getting rid of bad habits. Be careful; your ideas are good but make sure that you're realistic and start off on solid ground. AQUAR. (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Travel and creative hobbies will be your best outlet. Be careful that you aren't saddled with the responsibilities of others. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Try to avoid serious discussions with loved ones. You can make money if you are careful not to let it trickle through your fingers.

From page 33 and is quietly going about her business. The pole vault is a very open event on the women's side this year. If she can produce 4.80m or better at London Stadium and the crowd get behind her, we could see something equivalent to when Thiago Braz da Silva upset Renaud Lavillenie of France in the men's pole vault at Rio. Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake 200m Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake is a really nice guy with an excellent attitude and, after spending time in Jamaica and the United States, this will represent something of a homecoming for the Newhamborn 23-year-old. He has not quite broken 20 seconds this year but he has been close and it is an open event. The two fastest guys in the world this year over 200m - Isaac Makwala and Wayde van Niekerk - are primarily 400m guys and will be coming to the event after the longer event - while Jamaican Yohan Blake's preparations have been disrupted by a groin injury. Mitchell-Blake's strong performance at the trials may have helped keep Adam Gemili out of the 200m, but he could learn from his compatriot. Gemili is an expert at major championship campaigns - getting through the rounds, not doing too much too early and saving his best for the final. If Mitchell-Blake can do that and harness the support from the home crowd, he has a chance.

including the Captain and his deputy, were meet by no Sports Minister, no Director of sport and no motorcade. The same happened when our Guyanese Girls returned from winning the ladies Cricket t20 World Cup. When World ranked Boxer Clive Atwell suffered a brain injury fighting for Guyana and needed a corrective Brain Surgery overseas, I took him to Health Minister George Norton. After hearing his response I lost my temper and I am sorry for my behaviour that day but I was not surprised that he was removed as Minster. At the National Awards ceremony (for the 2nd year) nobody from the Sports fraternity received an award, while three months into her term Sports Minister Nicolette Henry said she did want to spend the next four years defending the names I had suggested for the Providence Stadium. I am aware that the Director of Sports Christopher Jones asked Mr. Ronald Austin (far older than I, very knowledgeable about cricket) for a list of names to send to Minister Henry and his list

was almost the same as mine but the Sports Minister again shot down the idea of naming the stands. During the last International series here, T&T’s Fazeer Mohammed said during TV commentary that Guyana is the only International cricket ground in the Region without names and joked that the powers that be must think that there is no outstanding Guyanese cricketer. Maybe Minister Henry really thinks so. The AG Basil Williams stated that the injunction preventing Cricket Board elections from being held had been quashed but it took a picketing exercise outside his office two days before for him to release that information to the public, which shows what Government thinks about the importance of Sports. Reading letters like Mr. Trim’s hammers home the point that both Governments seem not to care about sports and that I wasted my vote thinking this Government would be any different from the last one when it comes to Sports in Guyana. Sean Devers


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Thursday August 03, 2017

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Paris St-Germain must pay £198m ‘in full’ to sign Barcelona forward BBC Sport - Barcelona have told Paris St-Germain they must pay a world record 222m euro (£198m) fee “in full” before Neymar can join them. The Brazil international arrived at training yesterday with his father and representative, and told the Spanish club he wanted to leave. He was then given permission by Barca manager Ernesto Valverde not to train and to “sort out his future”. PSG are understood to be ready to pay the 25-year-old’s release clause. The latest development comes two days after it

row.” Neymar responded to the post saying: “Thank you brother… I will miss you uncle!” Neymar moved to Barcelona from Brazilian club Santos in 2013 for £48.6m, and signed a new five-year deal with the 24-time Spanish champions in 2016. His representative Wagner Ribeiro, who yesterday tweeted he was in Paris, said last year that his client had been offered a tax-free £650,000 a week to sign for the French club. He also said the forward

tone’ “Revons plus grand” PSG’s motto is hard to avoid at their stadium, Parc de Princes. The translation? “Dream bigger” PSG’s owners, Qatari Sports Investment (QSI), are the upstarts within the European game and determined to disrupt the old order. QSI is an arm of Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund - so PSG’s ambitions are backed by the enormous natural gas wealth of the Gulf state. Qatar is locked in a bitter dispute with its Arab

Bolt confident of keeping his cool for final races LONDON (Reuters) - As his long, illustrious career reaches its end, Usain Bolt is confident he will not be overwhelmed by emotion at the World Athletic Championships in London on Saturday and has his sights set firmly on signing off with victory.

told Reuters TV that he would be as focused on the finish line as always. “I can’t approach it any different. It’s just a championship, I have to come out here and look at it and deal with it like a championship so I’m just really focused, I’ve

been marked by tragedy, with the Jamaican having to come to terms with the death of his friend, former Britain high jumper Germaine Mason, who died in a motor crash in April. “I deal with situations one step at a time, so I didn’t really think that but it has been

Usain Bolt won three gold medals at the Rio Olympics in the summer. (Reuters)

Neymar arrived for training at Barcelona yesterday, and told his team-mates he wanted to leave. (EPA) emerged Barca were ready to push for a Financial Fair Play investigation if PSG signed Neymar. That came after La Liga president Javier Tebas threatened, in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, a legal response against the former Ligue 1 champions if European football’s governing body failed to take action. He also said PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi had been made aware of the Spanish league’s intentions. Team-mate Lionel Messi has paid tribute to the 25year-old. He wrote in an Instagram post: “It was a great pleasure to have shared all these years with you my friend Neymar. I wish you good luck in this new stage of your life. See you tomor-

“was close to a move to Manchester United”. Rumours of Neymar’s potential departure resurfaced recently, but club president Josep Maria Bartomeu told the BBC the player would be staying. Neymar played for the Catalan side in the recent International Champions Cup in the United States, before travelling to China to fulfill commercial commitments. He travelled back to Spain on Tuesday and returned to the club’s training ground yesterday. The Brazilian has scored 105 goals for Barcelona, helping them to two league titles, three Copas del Rey and a Champions League crown. Analysis - ‘This transfer has a distinct political over-

neighbours - so this transfer has a distinct political overtone as it seeks to show it will not be diminished or cowed by an ongoing trade blockade and a diplomatic war of words. Having secured the World Cup in 2022, Doha sees PSG as one of the ways through which the state can achieve its ambitions. Uefa’s Financial Fair Play regulations have certainly tempered PSG’s elaborate spending in recent seasons, and Neymar’s arrival would represent a serious challenge to the club in this respect but there’s confidence within PSG’s boardroom that it will not be a significant issue. Ultimately this deal will not be judged in the governmental salons of Doha nor on a spreadsheet. Instead, success must be delivered through PSG capturing arguably the club game’s greatest trophy, the Champions League. What will Barcelona be missing? Neymar is one third of Barcelona’s ‘MSN’ strikeforce, which also includes Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. In the past three seasons, they have scored 250 goals between them in 299 appearances. But they do more than just score...

In a career spanning over 13 years, Bolt has amassed 11 world titles and eight Olympic gold medals along with the world records for the 100 and 200 meters, becoming one of the most famous athletes in the world in the process. On the eve of his final two races - the 100m and the 4x100m relay - the 30-year-old

been training hard and I’m ready to go,” Bolt said in an interview. “For me, I’m always confident. I go there to win at all times. I’m always ready to go, I’m looking forward to the competition so for me that’s it. I’m just going out there to win this Saturday.” Bolt’s final season has

tough, a really up and down season. It has been rough but for me, I just try to look at the positives,” he said. “I always try to take a negative and put it into a positive and try to work forward, you know what I mean? So for me no matter how bad the situation, I’ve always tried to turn it around and try to make it into a positive.”

Letter to the Sports Editor....

Burnham’s GOG was last Government interested in Sports DEAR EDITOR, A letter headlined ‘Amazed by operations of our Government and sporting authorities’ from a Mr. Robert Trim in the Sunday July 30th issue of the Kaieteur News caught my attention. Mr. Trim highlighted three scenarios within the last month which amazed him that Government had little interest in Sports. Mr. Trim said when Daniel Williams, the 400 meters Silver Medalist at the World Youth Games returned from Kenya no Sports Minister, no Director of Sports or no member of the GOA was present to welcome him. Mr. Trim added, when Flyweight Boxer Keevin Allicock returned home with a Silver Medal from Commonwealth Games in Bahamas he suffered the same fate. He also wrote about the wonderful welcome for Guyana Robotics team which played 10th at the World Ro-

botics Championships and the Stabroek News editorial applauding their efforts. But unlike Mr. Trim I am not amazed or even surprised with this Government apparent disinterest in Sports and those who represented this Country in Sports. The Forbes Burnham PNC Government was the last Government to see sports, which transcends race, social status, political affiliation, promotes National Unity and help to reduce crime, as something important. Under Burnham’s Presidency, if anyone was selected to represent Guyana in sports, they had to be given time-off regardless if they worked in Public or Private sector. There were the GUYSTAC and GUYMINE Games and every GUYSUCO Estate had proper sports facilities and cricket grounds. Once selected for your Country your Company would give you ‘special leave’ with full salary.

The PPP/C Government displayed the same cavalier attitude for sports and as someone who has a keen interest for Sports and passionate love for cricket, I wrote several articles in both the Stabroek News and Kaieteur News highlighting the lack of Governments’ interest for Sports. This newspaper even published several photographs with a story I did on the deplorable condition of Government owned grounds under the previous Administration. Little has changed. The condition of the GCB practice facility at the GNIC ground on Woolford Avenue is a perfect example of a waste of space. I represented this Country in sports and had a personal experience with the PPP/C’s Sports Minister when I was diagnosed with Brain Cancer and Clive Lloyd asked him to help, but that’s Continued on page 29


Thursday August 03, 2017

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Kaieteur News

GFF offers technical and physical resources to hinterland football tourney

GFF Executive Committee Member Dion Inniss with teams before the start of the tournament. In support of hinterland football development, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) participated in the opening ceremony of the St. Romain 10th Annual Memorial Games held in Port Kaituma, North West District, Region 1. The GFF was represented by Executive Committee Member, Dion Inniss, at

the games’ opening on Sunday, 30th July at the Fitzburg Community Centre Sports Ground. In brief remarks, Inniss expressed how pleased the GFF is to support the tournament. “The Federation is very pleased to be associated with this year’s event as it provides a wonderful opportunity for

communities throughout the Region to engage in healthy rivalry.” He made mention of the Federation’s Developmental thrust and urged the Region to seize the opportunities available to remain competitive with the other regions: “At the moment you are lagging behind but we are here to reverse that. The per-

Barbados snatch narrow advantage as Guyana rally BASSETERRE, St Kitts, CMC – Barbados snatched two key wickets to hold the edge against Guyana heading into yesterday’s final day of their second round match in the Regional Under-19 Championship at Verchilds. The Barbadians extended their overnight 140 for five to 207 all out to secure a first innings lead of 65 runs before striking twice as Guyana ended the second day on 75 for two – a lead of just 10 runs. Kevelon Anderson, batting at number three, was resisting with an unbeaten 30

while opener Raymond Perez made 29. The pair came together after Aley Algoo fell cheaply for five with 12 on the board, putting on a crucial 47 for the second wicket. Anderson has so far faced 99 balls and struck a single boundary while Perez counted four boundaries in his 69-ball innings. Earlier, Kilano Brathwaite completed a responsible 57 but Barbados lost their last five wickets for 67 runs to squander some of their advantage. Resuming the day on 24, Brathwaite faced 121 deliveries in 139 minutes and

counted seven boundaries, before he was ninth out. He put on an important 34 for the seventh wicket with Raneil Smith who made nine. Off-spinner Kevin Sinclair was the best bowler with five for 57. Scores: GUYANA 142 (Kevelon Anderson 26, Raymond Perez 23; Shavon Brooks 3-28, Camarie Boyce 3-33) and 75 for two (Kevelon Anderson 30 not out, Raymond Perez 29) BARBADOS 207 (Shian Brathwaite 86, Kilano Brathwaite 57; Kevin Sinclair 5-57)

Everest Cricket Club congratulates Yadram Everest Cricket Club has extended congratulations to all-rounder Bhaskar Yadram for his success on his recent tour to South Africa and Zimbabwe with the West Indies U-19 team. Yadram, who hails from Enterprise on the East Coast of Demerara, was voted manof-the-series in both tournaments which the regional side won. The club, in a release stated that Yadram is a very dedicated and determine cricketer who is always willing to learn. “His passion for the game was seen at a very young age and members of the club happy with his achievement. We hope that this will motivate other young

Bhaskar Yadram members of the club and we wish him well in the future”, the release further stated. Yadram and Joshua Persaud of GNIC SC were the

Guyanese on tour, and are both expected to join the Guyana U-19 team in the regional tournament currently being played in St. Kitts.

formance of the Hosororo team in the Digicel Secondary School Football Championship demonstrates that the potential is there, organisation and structure are needed.” The Executive Committee member offered his congratulations to the organisers and best wishes to the participating teams. The GFF provided

both physical and technical resources for the tournament consisting balls, presented to tournament coordinator I Salam during the week of the 17th July, as well as three match officials who were be available during the course of the tournament. Earlier in the day a meeting was held with participating teams and a Steering

Committee was chosen to help organise them into clubs in the sub-region and be the point of contact with the GFF. The tournament has eight teams from various locations in the Region 1 including Matthews Ridge, Mabaruma, Maruka, Port Kaituma, Hosororo, Sebai, 5 Star and Arakaka and concluded August 1.

Inniss meeting with participating teams reps.

GSCL Inc to host Prime Minister’s Cup in October The Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc (GSCL Inc) will be hosting Guyana’s Premier softball tournament dubbed the Prime Minister’s Cup in October. According to Secretary of the GSCL Inc Telesha Ousman, eight teams including three from the United States of America have confirmed their participation. She added that the tournament will be played in the Open and Masters categories and will commence on October 27 and conclude two days later. Ousman said that they will accept 16 teams, eight in each division.

Those that have already confirmed their participation are New York Hustlers, New York President’s X1, Regal Masters and HS Masters of Guyana, and in the open category; SVC All Stars of the USA, Regal Allstars, Farm and Speedboat. Players must be over the age of 45 in order to play in the Masters segment and no entrance fee is required. The winning team in the Open division will pocket a trophy and $600,000 while the champions in the Masters segment will take home a trophy and $500,000. The venues earmarked to host the matches are

Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), Everest Cricket Club, Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO), Police and GNICSC. Teams in the Masters’ category are asked to note that they must submit photo identification, preferably valid passports for every member of their 15-man squad. Registration will be done through Russel Jadbeer on telephone numbers 626-8228, 226-4205. The tournament is being held in collaboration the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport and it will be launched on August 25.


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Kaieteur News

D’ Edward overcome Brilliant Roach brightens rain-hit day as Essex stumble Everest CC in T20 fixture CHELMSFORD, England, CMC – Fast bowler Kemar Roach erased any doubt about his form and fitness with a brilliant spell which brightened an otherwise dour second day of the West Indies three-day tour game against Essex here yesterday. Only two hours play was possible at Essex County Ground as heavy rain, which started during the lunch interval and continued into the afternoon, forced officials to abandon play at 3:15 pm. However, Roach made the most of the time available, putting on an excellent exhibition of swing bowling, to end with three for 17 from six overs as Essex stumbled to the interval on 47 for four. West Indies had earlier declared their first innings on 338 for eight after resuming the day on 309 for eight.

Wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich, starting on 28, scored 44 not out off 67 deliveries with seven boundaries. Roach then increased West Indies’ stranglehold on the contest when he had opener Varun Chopra caught at third slip by a diving Kyle Hope off the third ball of the innings for nought, edging an out-swinger without a run on the board. He followed up by comprehensively bowling Dan Lawrence for eight in the seventh over with one that nipped back before completing a suberb spell by trapping Adam Wheater lbw, also without scoring, with a full length delivery nine balls later. Slumping at 19 for three, Essex found themselves in further trouble when pacer Miguel Cummins, who shared

the new ball, claimed captain Ryan ten Doeschate lbw for six. Opener Nick Browne then managed survive the Windies onslaught, battling 52 balls and a 1-1/4 hours for his unbeaten 16, to take Essex to lunch without further loss. Roach is returning to the Windies side for the first time in 19 months after battling injury and loss of form, and his performance will be a huge boost for the Caribbean side ahead of their three-Test tour against England starting in two weeks. Scores: WEST INDIES 338 for eight decl. (Roston Chase 81, Kraigg Brathwaite 61, Jermaine Blackwood 59, Shane Dowrich 44 not out; Callum Taylor 2-44, Paul Walter 254) ESSEX 47 for four (Kemar Roach 3-17).

Umrao, another young Berbice cricketer gets sponsorship from New York based Guyanese

Young Kelvin Umrao proudly displays his new CA bat with other gears. Albion Cricket Club, Berbice and National U-17 left arm spinner and lower order batsman Kelvin Umrao is the latest young Berbice cricketer to receive sponsorship from Guyanese living in New York. The careers of Umrao, like other young promising cricketers from Berbice, are closely followed by a group of Guyanese living in the State of New York, USA and in response to his rapid progress and discipline, he was gifted a quantity of cricket gears to assist with his further development. The gears consist of one cricket bag, one New Balance

bowling boots, one Nike batting boots, one thigh pad, one CA bat, one arm guard and bat rubbers among other cricket related items. The sponsorship was provided by: Chin Singh, David Sookrah, Ramo Singh, Chris Ganesh, Brodo Kunjal, Mukesh Matai, Goordial Matai, Valdat, Buddy Permaul, Katch, Pampo Karan, Wally Bascom, Devan Ramlall, Shan and Dowlatram. At a simple presentation ceremony held, Anil Beharry, former Berbice senior all-rounder who also served as Berbice Cricket

Board President, and on the executive committee of the GCB and Young Warriors, thanked these honorable gentlemen for following closely the progress of young cricketers in Guyana, Berbice in particular with the hope that sometime the West Indies Cricket team can once again dominate world cricket. Many of them are also involved in charitable organisations that lend support to people in the country of their birth. They wished Umrao well and hoped that this can motivate others to do likewise, and promised to continue supporting young cricketers based on the recommendation of Beharry. Umrao in response thanked the sponsors and promised to do his best on and off the field. He added that the gesture is very timely as his career is moving a pace. This follows assistance given recently to Alex Algoo with funding from the same group, national player Gudakesh Motie Kanhai, sponsored by Bobby Deonarine of Tenelec and National youth all-rounder Kevlon Anderson who was sponsored by Lower Corentyne Secondary School Old Students of the USA.

D’ Edward Sports Club of West Bank Berbice defeated hosts Everest Cricket Club in a T20 fixture played on Tuesday. D’ Edward SC batted first

23 and Devendra Narine 16. Leg spinner Amir Khan snared 3-13, teenage left arm spinner Raynaldo Mohamed 2-13 and Dwayne Adams 2-21. Everest, fielding a youth-

missed for a run-a-ball 37 and Hiralall followed for 20, D’ Edward fought back well to contain the remaining batmen. Riyad Sattaur contributed 12 as Everest were

Members of the victorious D’Edward SC team. and scored 114-8. The visitors were off to slow start due to some steady bowling by the host, but managed to rotate the strike well in the latter stages. Abdool Subhan led with 33, while Lakeraj Sookra made

ful line up, lost Saheed Mohamed, Adams and Khan cheaply before Khemraj Ramdeen and Rishi Hiralall gave them hope with sensible batting in the middle. Ramdeen timed the ball well, but when he was dis-

bowled out for 92 in 19.4 overs. Rendell Bobb picked up two wickets, while there was one each for Kevon Jawahir, Parmanand Ramdhan, Subhan, Sookra and Keith Fraser. (Zaheer Mohamed)

Windies, Guyana players on show in 7-a-side GUYSA fund raiser Sunday On Sunday Guyanese Students Association (GUYSA) will be holding its first fund raiser on Guyanese soil with what promises to be an exciting 7-a-side six overs cricket competition with the action scheduled to start at 09:00hrs. The GUYSA is a nonprofit organization that was established on January 1, 2016 and is the official student representative body for all Guyanese within the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies in Barbados. Among the players confirmed to participate in this event are West Indies opener and three times winning Guyana Captain Leon Johnson. Guyana First-Class players Chanderpaul Hemraj, Amir Khan, Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Sherfane Rutherford are set to showcase their talent. Pulsating competition is anticipated since in addition to the City teams, Young Warriors of Berbice has already confirmed participation. “Well we choose cricket since we believe it’s the sport that indentifies the most be-

Shaquille Williams tween Guyana and Barbados and also to generate interest and provide entertainment for the many cricket fans and simultaneously raise funds for a respectable cause,” said President of GUYSA 23-yearold Shaquille Williams. “Our functions are to look after the Welfare of Guyanese students, promote Guyanese Cultural ethnicity, create op-

portunities to develop the skills of our members and contribute to the community,” said Williams a former Guyana Youth team off-spinner who plays for the UWI team in Barbados first division cricket. Food and drinks will be on sale at the venue and there will be an admission cost to the Event. (Sean Devers)


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