Battered body of K NEWS missing Berbice fisherman found in sandpit AIETEUR
Thursday Edition August 25, 2016 - Vol. 9 No. 34
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That shady bond deal…
We are humans, not a Cabinet of Angels; we will make mistakes - Ramjattan Man gunned down…
Suspect thought men wanting to kill him were in car Drug bond contract…
DEADLY DRIVEWAY! The bridge on which the fatal shooting occurred.
Contractors object Walter Jagdeo Roth to $55Million dump accuses Museum Govt. of truck deal awarded relocation cover-up to mining company on hold
Kaieteur News
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The Walter Roth Museum on Main Street, Georgetown.
Thursday August 25, 2016
Walter Roth Museum relocation on hold N
o decision will be made on the relocation of the Wa l t e r R o t h Museum of Anthropology, until consultations have been had with the museum staff and stakeholders, including the leaders of the 212 Indigenous villages. Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, gave this assurance as he was addressing the question of the museum’s relocation, during his engagement with the indigenous leaders yesterday morning at the National Toshaos Council (NTC) meeting at the Arthur Chung International Convention Centre, Liliendaal. The NTC annual meeting is the biggest forum for Amerindians to air their concerns. “What I have done is I have asked the President (David Granger) to put the question of the movement of the Walter Roth Museum on hold until I have had an opportunity to discuss the matter more thoroughly with the people, the anthropologists, the toshaos and so on,” Minister Roopnaraine said. His announcement, according to a Government release, was met with loud applause from the indigenous leaders.
The Minister assured the Amerindian leaders that the matter is one that is at the heart of his very own family. T h e Wa l t e r R o t h Museum of Anthropology contains a wealth of historic information and artifacts about the Amerindian people with the aim of keeping the legacy of Guyana’s first people alive. The Ministry of the Presidency (MOTP) had recently announced its decision to move the museum to the Guyana National Museum and to use the institution’s current Main Street location for one of its departments. However, there were objections to the relocation, including from the Opposition. D u r i n g y e s t e r d a y ’s engagement, Patrick Gomes, To s h a o o f M a r u r a n a u Village, Region Nine decried the government’s decision to move the museum, on the grounds that the artifacts contained within were discovered hundred years ago, and many valuable pieces are likely not survive the relocation. Gomes called on all the indigenous leaders present at the NTC to make a recommendation to the government that the museum remain at its present site, “because we do not want to lose our heritage and our connection to the past.” The indigenous people need to “have that connection to the past, to know where we came from, where we are going and what we have,” Gomes noted.
Kaieteur News
Thursday August 25, 2016
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That shady bond deal …
We are humans, not a Cabinet of Angels; we will make mistakes -Ramjattan By Kiana Wilburg
“Think of it like a game of cricket. One man drops de ball at a crucial point in the game. Wuh de Captain must do? Box the man behind he head, tell he walk off the field and call a truck to drive over him? No. We are humans and we will blunder. We are not a Cabinet of Angels.” This was the perspective of Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan as he considered the controversial Sussex Street bond deal which has, as of late, earned the coalition administration nothing but harsh criticisms. The bond is owned by Lawrence Singh of Linden Holdings Inc. Ramjattan, the Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), said that while some critics expect the party to be “unashamedly outspoken on the issue” and to give Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton a “feral
blast”, he stressed that the protocols of Cabinet dictate a different mode of approach. In fact, Ramjattan said that when he considers the issue of the bond deal, the entire Cabinet, he believes, should take some amount of responsibility for the mistake. “It is not only Norton who erred. It’s the entire Cabinet. I will take my share of the responsibility, but people must understand that there is a certain way to doing things,” the Public Security Minister expressed. Ramjattan said that he can accept the criticism that Government erred badly in this regard, however it must be appreciated that the administration took steps to correct the mistake. The AFC Leader asserted, “When this matter came before us we were told that we have to pay $19M to New GPC for them to store drugs for us. So we voted for
Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan the $12M rental of the Sussex Street bond because it is far less than what New GPC was asking for.” He added, “We were also under the impression that the Sussex Street facility was ready. But of course we found out this was not the
Battered body of missing Berbice fisherman found in sandpit
T
he badly battered and bruised body of a 26-year-old man who was reported missing, was yesterday afternoon discovered in a sandpit at No 68 Village backdam. Levan Chanderpaul, a fisherman of Number 68 Village, Corentyne, was last seen around 19:00 hrs on Monday, when he left his home for an unknown destination. He was not seen again. His mother made a missing person report yesterday morning. Search parties were dispatched and he was discovered in a sandpit around 15:20 hrs about half of a mile west of the public road. The body was reportedly discovered by a young boy grazing sheep and goats in the backdam. The lad began screaming and this attracted a search party that was nearby. The police were then informed and quickly descended on the scene.
According to information, when the body was found it bore marks suggesting that the deceased had been badly beaten - there were bruises on the head and ears, the neck appeared to be broken and there were signs that he was also beaten in the area of the genitals. Reports are that the man was seen smoking heavily over the last week and was consuming a lot of alcohol also. It is reported that he had made off with a quantity of an illegal substance which had gone missing. Investigators are also theorizing that the man might have been beaten elsewhere and his body dumped there. There were no signs of blood at the scene and there was not much disturbance of the area. Chanderpaul has no children and lives with his parents. Acting on information, about five persons have been arrested and are in custody. Investigations are ongoing.
Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton case. But what did we do after finding certain anomalies? We immediately established a subcommittee to investigate the matter.” T h e C a b i n e t subcommittee comprised Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, Natural Resources Minster, Raphael Trotman and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon.
Ramjattan stressed that coming out of that subcommittee were certain recommendations, one of which includes an apology to the public. Norton is expected to hand over his apology to House Speaker, Dr. Barton Scotland tomorrow. The AFC leader also emphasised that it is
important for the public to note that had the same situation occurred under the former regime, there would have been an entirely different reaction from the PPP. “We in the AFC, cannot in view of the partnership arrangement, go and box him (Norton) on his ears and ask him to walk out of Cabinet because of this mistake. How could we do that? We understand that we made a huge mistake but come on, we are rectifying it,” Ramjattan appealed. He added, “We are going to make lots more mistakes. Don’t ever feel we are not going to make mistakes. But in view of all of this, it means that we will have to be more interrogative of our brother and sister cabinet Ministers on matters of single sourcing and those other issues.” The Public Security Minister made it clear that he is in agreement with the recommendation to have a bond for the storage of pharmaceuticals that is (Continued on page 13)
Thursday August 25, 2016
Citizens inconvenienced each time Water World hosts parties DEAR EDITOR, It is with utter disgust and anger that I pen this letter given the total disregard shown to residents living aback the Providence Stadium by members of the police force and owners of HJ’s Water World Fun Park. Residents must travel more than two miles to get to their homes yet, majority of the t i m e s o w n e r s o f Wa t e r Wo r l d h o s t a n e v e n t , residents are left stranded or forced to find alternate routes to get home since without notice, the police close off the road to traffic entering. They see no difficulty in denying and sometimes arguing with residents who express discontent at being denied entry to the road that leads them home. Residents must then go out of their way to use alternate routes such as Green Field or Industrial Site/ Haags Bosch road. Green Field is a long stretch of road with dense overgrowth on both sides. It has no street lights and if you are unfamiliar with the area, like I was, you can get lost. The Haags Bosch road is in poor condition. It also requires drivers to drive back to Bagotstown from Providence to access the Haags Bosch road. Persons without vehicles must sometimes pay a taxi as much as $1000 and $1500 to get home since the roads available for use during the Water World events, are way
out of bounds. What is even more upsetting is that despite having a huge parking lot, a huge truck belonging to Water World has been parked on the roadside opposite the fun park for the last several months; completely blocking off the east-west lane. Even without an event, this parked truck obstructs traffic. I am concerned as to why the police are granting Water Work permission to close the road. Are they aware how seriously residents are affected? Editor this is unfair and highly irregular that citizens should suffer while these private promoters make their money. There is no compensation for persons inconvenienced by Water World’s parties, concerts and dances. This is not what residents- who purchased property just like Water World’s owners did-, bargained for. We get extremely poor quality water, our Perseverance homes are incomplete as well as the road, and we must pay $400 weekly to have our garbage collected; we refuse to have the access to our homes denied also. I am calling on Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud, Traffic Chief, Dion Moore and Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan to look into this matter. Citizens deserve better than this! Zena Henry
BIT continues its work in... From page 4 performers of either category rising to management levels in both factory and field workshop. The Honours Roll at the Port Mourant Training Centre displays the higher achievers, some of whom rose to the level of Factory Manager. It is good to report that, at this very juncture, the Regrading and Reclassification
Scheme has been sustained all these years, even as attention is urgently being paid to restoring the efficacy of its implementation. On reflection however, one hopes it is not too impudent to enquire whether perchance this sugar industry’s initiative is exceptional amongst colleague employer training organisations! E B John
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Kaieteur News
Lamentations on Guyana’s chaotic traffic situation DEAR EDITOR, I am writing in response to your editorial last week on the carnage on the roads. Your paper often refers to the car crashes as accidents. They are not accidents but the inevitable consequence of excessive speed, drunkenness, use of cellphones while driving, callous aggression, potholes and worn out tires. These are the hazards in daylight hours. At night we can add headlamps on full beam with no dipping of lights for oncoming traffic. Cars with an array of spotlights enough to light up the heavens, some cars with flashing lights like a Christmas tree and some cars with only one headlamp or no lights at all. The dazzled oncoming motorist can hardly see to avoid the cyclists and pedestrians. Not to mention the black cows wandering about. None of these is, of course illuminated. In order to improve the
situation the Government needs to lead by example. This means that the ridiculous high speed convoys of ‘diplomats or VIPs’ stop immediately. One such convoy came screaming through Rose Hall on Sunday afternoon, where the speed limit is 50 km/hr. The vehicles all had heavily tinted glass, which I am told is illegal. Anyone who has read Franz Kafka’s ‘The Castle’ will know that these convoys represent a pretence at importance and urgency and are indeed empty vessels. The point is if Government officials think they can push everyone out of the way so they can get by in their tints so can bus drivers. This leads me on to bus drivers. The police were randomly stopping vehicles on Mandela Avenue, opposite the Botanical Gardens on Friday 19 August at about 3 pm. There was an orderly line of stationary
traffic but of course the buses were ‘undertaking’ and forcing their way in under the noses of the police. There were about ten policemen, some of them heavily armed. My wife and I asked the ranks why they were not stopping the buses. They said they had not noticed anything and from their innocent expressions I don’t think they were even aware of the problem with aggressive bus driving. Is the message getting through to the ‘boots on the ground’? Deaths on the roads can be avoided if motorists abide by the law and the law is enforced when necessary. It’s not a question of checking the driving ability of the elderly as a Minister has suggested. They are not the drivers they are the pedestrians and cyclists being killed. If the Government can’t lead by example then Guyana’s leading industries should ensure their drivers drive
carefully and considerately and without honking their horns all the time. I would suggest all newly registered cars must be made to keep their rear seatbelts so they can be used if required. All taxis should carry rear seat belts. This will mean a refit in most cases but it will save lives and give some comfort to tourists who are here to enjoy Guyana in safety. Finally, does anyone in authority take any notice of Ian MacDonald’s column in the Sunday Stabroek. This week he was reflecting sadly about people who die in their youth and will not see Christmases and birthdays and the changes of the seasons. He finds a poem to send home the message. Too many young people die on our roads. Ian MacDonald is a mature man with a clear message. It’s time for Guyana and its motorists to grow up too. Robert Perks Belvedere
Accusations against Irfan Ali’s ministerial performance DEAR EDITOR, The Kaieteur News August 24 article on GWI fallout relating to hiring of an apparently unqualified drug dealer and Irfan Ali’s contribution, requires a response. What international HR department is Ali comparing GWI HR department to? It must be to that of a mafia organisation that goes along with what the head of such an organisation dictates. The HR departments in all the public agencies in Guyana operated in an unprofessional way over the last 50 years. The PPP were too afraid or incompetent to recognise and solve this problem. The PPP supporters suffered and suffer immensely due to this. The PPP supporters know this. The PPP is callous and just do not care; that is why it lost the last two elections. Irfan Ali is attempting to defend his turf since he was the minister responsible for water under the last two PPP administrations. It is this act among so many others that the PPP must cut Irfan Ali loose if it wants to win another election. If not I encourage
PPP supporters to walk away and condition themselves to years of hardship and discrimination. PPP supporters know what I am talking about. Many of you have been to Irfan Ali and were treated with contempt. Spread the word in your communities not to vote while Irfan Ali remains a hindrance to the PPP. Irfan Ali is clueless on what transpired within GWI because he was not concerned and he appointed persons to the board that were totally unsuited and incompetent when it comes to overseeing managing a utility. The GWI HR department must be an unprofessional department like the others. Release the Internal Audit report on the HR department over the last 5 years. Ali must have copies for 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. GWI must publish the staff composition and let the public know the personnel composition of the various departments and units with GWI. Publish the ethnic composition of permanent staff hired over the last 5 years. Then let the public determine if the hiring
practices are fair. Do this over the last 5 years of all staff inclusive of the last 16 months of the current PNC administration. Perhaps it is now time for a forensic audit of all public sector HR departments? This would provide a benchmark for one of the indicators to measure whether Granger’s social cohesion minister is effective. It would help to guide Granger’s social cohesion policy unless as it is all just fluff and rhetoric? BTW; what are the policies of the Social Cohesion ministry? This whole country is managed as one big cake shop over the last 50 years. It is all about buying and selling
only. Things are done in a clueless way. Right or wrong it is just being done. It is a vicious circle. The AFC is a big disappointment. It has demonstrated that it is not capable of the high level thinking it portrayed itself to be. Ramjattan assured us he will vote against the PNC if they do wrong things. What is happening now? Perhaps it is time to do this and only then the AFC can appeal to all racial groups to support you to bring about unity, transparency and good governance which this country desperately needs. Make Nigel Hughes the Presidential Candidate when you do this. H. Singh
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Kaieteur News
Thursday August 25, 2016
Lincoln Lewis accuses Coalition Gov’t of PPP My brother’s death should not be ignored style behaviour by the police
DEAR EDITOR, Those in society who fought for change in the manner in which the government functions and elected representatives conduct the people’s business carry a corresponding responsibility to hold this new administration accountable to universal acceptable standards. People want this government to succeed, especially coming after years of gross mismanagement, abuse of State resources, deceitful and contemptuous politicians, violation of laws, time-honoured principles and workers/citizens’ rights. If this administration had stuck to doing the things they said when in opposition and demanded of the PPP/C when on the other side in the National Assembly, the crises we are witnessing today would have been avoided. Government is not managed by gut feelings and “friendism” but by international acceptable principles, conventions, charters and laws. When the Govt. that made the decision in the first instance on the bond matter, has identified three within the said Govt. to investigate it, such does not happen in an environment where good governance is held in esteem. Where a minister today thinks it is acceptable to commit egregious act on behalf of the State and refers to such as a “learning experience,” that he nor the
party he associates with would not have allowed the PPP/C to do and expects a mere apology will suffice, is double standards and crass contempt for the people. Had a clerk committed similar act that worker would not have escaped accountability under the claim of learning experience but the matter would have been placed in the hands of the police where it rightfully belongs. It is an affront to the intelligence of Guyanese to ask us to accept that the bad decision and abuse of taxpayers’ money in selecting the Sussex Street bond has to do with location and road traffic consideration as against the bond at Diamond that meets storage requirements. A storage bond that houses the nation’s drugs and pharmaceuticals supplies cannot be likened to the storage facility of the various state-owned health institutions. With proper management each health institution should have stock on hand to meet short term needs including emergency, which makes the claim of ‘emergency’ an excuse. Health institution, by its very nature, factors in emergency in competency planning. If elected representatives can get away with lying to the National Assembly and by extension the people and keep their job, these same representatives have no moral authority to say to appointed government
officials that they cannot keep theirs for doing the same thing. And should such be the approach to governance this nation will sink deeper into the morass. Constitutional commissions are independent bodies, whose functions are established in the Constitution and conduct circumscribed by said instrument and the laws. If there exist a disagreement with a decision made by any constitutional body such has to be adjudicated and pronounced on by the court. Further to the above, those speaking out against this administration’s misconduct are being subjected to personal ridicule and denial of their rights and role in society similar as happened under the PPP/C. That such pursuit is designed to silence persons so this administration can repeat the PPP’s mistakes and not be held to account should not be tolerated or supported. Equally it must condemn the thin-skinned tendencies by some in the administration to public outcries and their abuse of the people’s privilege. Ours is a representative
system of government and those elected to represent us, whether a ballot was cast for them or not, once being paid by our tax dollars are duty bound to abide by established rules, timehonoured principles, and laws. The business of governance does not belong to a party or group. It belongs to the people who have elected representatives to manage their affairs. And whichever party or group demonstrates inclination to see and treat the people’s business otherwise; we, the people must stand up, make our voices heard, and refuse to relent until the desired change is achieved. Good governance will never be achieved in the face of complicity and silence to wrong doings. If it was wrong under the PPP/C it cannot be right under the APNU+AFC. Where the APNU and AFC in opposition condemned the PPP/C wrongs in government they carry greater responsibility to avoid said and similar wrongs. Each and every one of us must see to it for the sake of our and the nation’s growth and development. Lincoln Lewis
DEAR EDITOR, On July 27th, 2016, approximately 9:pm, [I believe], my brother, Jerome J. Singh, 61 years old, residing at Lot 3, Water Street was struck and killed by speeding motorist, Patrick Khan, [businessman] from Herstelling, EBD, whilst attempting to cross the road. According to Mr. Khan, during our telephone conversation, he was going home from Mosque and my brother ran in front of his car. According to eye witnesses, this was not so. Mr. Khan then lifted up Jerome’s body, drove him to Diamond Hospital, he was later transferred to Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. This accident never made it in the newspaper nor the news itself; any explanation? This matter was handled by the Providence Police Station, Officer Ali. I was told that the matter was forwarded to his Commander and later will be sent to the DPP’s office at Eve Leary. On August 16th, 2016, I visited the DPP’s office and filed an
inquiry, [Complaint Form]. On my second visit to the DPP’s Office, on Friday, August 19th, I was informed by Ms. Ramahan or [Ramadan], that the file has not yet been received. I should go to the Brickdam’s Police Station and speak with the Commander in charge. I did. As per Mr. Ashram, the file is not there, but was sent to Eve Leary. I advised, I just came from there and the file is not there. I received no response. I would like to know what is really going on with this matter. My brother is mourned by two children. Aman 14, and Annalisa 16. I was involved in a minibus accident on New Garden and Lance Gibbs Street on August 15th, 2016. That immediately made the news. The driver, Naresh Ramjohn, immediately had to appear in court four days later. It’s going on one month, and no court date for Jerome Singh’s death. Why? Is this how the law is in Guyana? You kill, bribe and you are free? Free for now, but Karma gets you in the end. Wanda Singh
Indian Action Committee replies to Carl Veecock DEAR EDITOR, The Indian Action Committee (IAC) has noted remarks by Carl Veecock, Markham, Ontario (Kaieteur News- 24th August 2016) letter to the Editor regarding the IAC recent visit to President Granger to discuss the organization’s ‘upcoming play on social cohesion.’ The IAC however wishes to make clarification that the organization’s visit to President Granger was not based entirely on the ‘upcoming play on social cohesion’, but to discuss several issues that the IAC felt that HE should be apprised of. The full meeting of the IAC with President Granger consisted of: 1. Unity Play The IAC first informed President Granger of its recently completed stage Play titled “I am US”, written by IAC Executive member Neaz Subhan which deals with the problem of Social Cohesion in the Guyanese society as general elections approach. The IAC invited stage actors and cast members Mr. GodreyNaughton and Mr. Kirk Jardine to explain the objectives of the stage play to President Granger. The IAC presented a copy of the stage Play to President Granger.
2. ERC Establishment The IAC enquired into the restoration of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) and was given the assurance by President Granger that the (ERC) will be restored when Parliament reconvene after its recess. 3. 100th year of last ‘coolie’ Ship The IAC informed President Granger that the last ‘coolie’ ship from India arrived in British Guiana on 18th April 1917 and that the organization has planned a series of cultural events including a stage play to commemorate the centenary anniversary of the arrival of the S.S. Ganges which brought 437 persons. The IAC suggested to President Granger that this commemoration coincide with the unveiling of the 1838 (Indian Indentured) Monument which is a gift from the Government of India to the people of Guyana. The IAC led the call for the 1838 Monument during the time of the previous government. The monument has been completed and is ready to be shipped to Guyana for installation at Palmyra, Region Six Berbice. 4. Communal Land concerns The IAC requested
clarification from President Granger and what he meant by “anomalies” and “controversies” pertaining to communal and proprietary villages established by formerly enslaved persons between 1839 and 1860 and his proposed communal lands commission to deal with these problems. The IAC was informed by President Granger that no lands will be taken away from anyone but problems relating to land ownership involving the descendants of the commonly owned lands
involving land titles will be resolved by this commission. The IAC intends to follow up these matters with the President. Further the organization will reach out to other stakeholders including the political opposition, religious groups, the international community and civil society on these and other matters relating to the Indian community. Saira Alli Secretary, Indian Action Committee
Garbage collection fiasco in Linden DEAR EDITOR, I’m a resident of Kara Kara, Mackenzie and since the election of our Mayor, my garbage hasn’t been collected. I live alone. My bins have been filled to capacity. Garbage collection is being done by Cevon’s waste management at a cost of $18,000 per annum for those who can afford it. Sir, I simply can’t afford it. With proper management, we don’t need to pay people like Cevon’s in Linden. My suggestion is, the mayor and town council should take the place of Cevon’s and charge a fraction of the rates Cevon’s charges. In that way, the council would get some
additional income to help manage the logistics of providing a reliable garbage collection service. There are rumours that the mayor is in favour of Cevon’s because of friendship, if that is true, well then, there is a conflict of interest in the Mayor and Town Council. I think that people being elected should do a job truly and diligently. Sir, what I’m talking about is not only myself, but lots of other citizens from various parts of this town are complaining about the same malpractice. So I don’t know if somebody could do something to rectify such malpractice. Derick Bacchus
Thursday August 25, 2016
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Kaieteur News
GPSU to consider final Gov’t offer on salary increases Yesterday, the Government of Guyana (GOG) and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) concluded discussions on Wages and Salaries for Public Servants within the Bargaining Unit for 2016. According to a statement from Government, the negotiations were conducted in the spirit of cordiality and mutual respect, and consistent with the obligations of the Memorandum of Agreement between the Guyana Public Service Union and the Public Service Ministry for the Avoidance and Settlement of Disputes. The negotiations were conducted within a twomonth period from June 22, 2016 to August 24, 2016. “During which period both the GOG and GPSU presented proposals and recommendations having mutually agreed that relief for public servants were both immediate and necessary. This timespan was influenced by requests made by the Union for information and data which the GOG as far as possible, sought to provide.” The initial proposal of the GPSU was for a 40% across the board increase for public servants. This was
subsequently adjusted to 25%. The Union also requested that allowances be included in the negotiations. In response, the Government explained that it had proposed a differentiated approach to increases that sought to provide the greatest relief to those within the lower Salary Bands of the Public Service Wages and Salaries Structure. In this regard, the Government proposed the following: -persons earning below $100,000 would receive 5.5% -persons earning $100,000 to $300,000 would receive 5% -persons earning $300,000 to $800,000 would receive 4.5% -persons earning $800,000 to $1,000,000 would receive 2% -persons earning over a $1,000,000 would receive 1% The below $100,000 percentage offer of 5.5% was later increased to 6%. “The GOG also agreed to consider a review of allowances for public servants immediately upon the conclusion of the negotiations for Wages and Salaries. As a consequence,
a Tripartite Committee comprising representatives from the Department of the Public Service, the Ministry of Finance and the Guyana Public Service Union was established to address this issue.” Government said its proposal took into consideration the fundamental need for a restructured Public Service which included the adjustment of scales for wages and salaries; the implementation of a merit increment system; and a resolution of the issue of bunching. “It was pointed out to the Union, that each of these would entail an additional
cost to Government and result in increased earnings for Public Servants. The GOG’s proposal was rejected by the Union.” Government, in the statement explained that it then reconsidered its position and a final offer was presented as follows: (See table) “It was pointed out to the GPSU that the GOG’s final offer for wages and salaries increases for Public Servants had taken into consideration the current socio-economic environment; the difficulty in agreeing to increases that would entail having to raise additional revenue and the unsustainability of any further addition to its offer
with regard to the current and future budgets.” Government said that it reiterated to the union that its members were also the Government’s employees and that the Government was equally mindful of the need for financial relief for the workers under consideration. “The Union was also reminded of the relief measures that were granted to public servants since the ascension of the new administration to office in
May 2015. Those measures included an increase of the minimum wage to $50,000; a 5% across-the-board plus $5000 increase, all within the 2015 National Budget, and a one-off bonus of $50,000 for public servants earning below $500,000 per month in December 2015.” GPSU, Government said, has agreed to consider the Government’s final offer and indicated that a response will be forthcoming after a meeting of its General Council.
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Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Drug bond contract…
Is Guyana’s manufacturing sector dying? Pt 8
Jagdeo accuses Govt. of cover-up
Opposition Leader recommends energy concessions, special tax rates to help locals
Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo is accusing members of the appointed Cabinet sub-committee Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment Raphael Trotman and Minister of State Joseph Harmon - of participating in a cover up of recent actions by their colleague, Minister of Public Health George Norton. Jagdeo was at the time addressing media operatives at a press conference held at his party’s Robb Street Headquarters. He recounted that Trotman had said that the bond was indeed PAHO/ WHO-compliant. Jagdeo said he is unaware as to how the Minister could have arrived at that conclusion based on his assessment. “He (Trotman) visited a building that was under construction, and he said that it is not true that the building is not prepared to accept drugs.” According to the Opposition Leader, having an air conditioning unit, a
changeover switch for electricity outages and physical and electronic security, does not qualify the facility to store medical supplies for the nation. Jagdeo went further to say that the Prime Minister’s excuse was an attempt to outdo Trotman’s excuse. “He (Nagamootoo) says that there could have been a fire, and it’s the congestion that caused this, that we had to get a second place.” The opposition leader said that Harmon, Trotman and Nagamootoo who make up the sub-committee should be called the “cover-up committee”. He asserted that the issue does not stop at Norton, but in fact goes much deeper. According to Jagdeo, his party did not have faith in an objective review being done by the Cabinet sub-committee which had been set up to examine the contract. However, he noted that his camp was still hopeful for some truth to come out of it. Jagdeo said that if a thorough investigation is
done, it would be surprising how deep the connections run in the government regarding the bond. “That contract is not about Norton himself, Norton was directed to initiate that. Norton was directed by members of that Cabinet to negotiate this deal with this individual. They all knew about it when it went to the Parliament.” According to the politician, Nagamootoo had said to him that the issue was fully debated by the Cabinet. “If it is that Cabinet debated that issue, why must Norton apologise? It means we have a dunce and incompetent cabinet that couldn’t ask basic questions?” He said that now since the contract has been exposed for what it is, Norton’s colleagues have thrown him under the bus. Jagdeo said that for years, Norton was advocating for competitive bidding but has now taken the position to sole source a contract, giving as an excuse his ignorance of public tendering and prequalification.
No bail for alleged internet café burglar An unemployed father of two who was allegedly caught on CCTV camera breaking into an internet café at Charlotte Street,
Georgetown, was yesterday remanded to prison after he appeared in a city court. Jason Joseph, 31, of 164 Charlotte St r e e t , Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on August 17, he broke and entered the internet café of Orlando Batson and stole $142,000 cash and an electronic tablet. An unrepresented Joseph was instructed to return to court on September 7, for disclosure of statements. He told the Magistrate that he has no pending matters or
previous convictions. When asked by Magi s t r a t e Judy Latchman if he had any objections to bail, Prosecutor Bostwick replied in the affirmative. He pointed out that CCTV footage retrieved from the business shows the defendant removing the items. The prosecutor said that there is a possibility Joseph might flee the jurisdiction if granted pre-trial liberty. The accused was then refused bail.
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo To improve the competitiveness of local manufacturers, former President and Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo suggests that energy concessions and special tax rates should be implemented. Jagdeo made this remark yesterday during a press conference at his party’s headquarters. He was asked to comment on the state of the economy, where local traders are importing manufactured commodities which can be made in Guyana. According to Jagdeo, the manufacturing sector in Guyana is at a severe disadvantage. He said that the cost attached to production is one of the major challenges facing entrepreneurs. Cost relating to electricity supply to factories, particularly, was pointed out by the politician. He said that during his party’s tenure it had attempted to bring the cost down for electricity through the implementation of hydropower-derived electricity. Jagdeo said that for years he had been trying to find out the subsidy scheme as it relates to power supply employed by Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname. The wisdom behind this
approach, he explained, was having cognizance of the fact that Guyana shares the same market with its Regional counterparts. He said that his government had realised that in those countries the electricity is heavily subsidised. This, Jagdeo said, places Guyanese manufacturers at a severe disadvantage in what is to be a Common Single Market and Economy (CSME) since Guyanese cannot compete regionally. This is so since the cost per unit sold by a Guyanese would be higher. The former Head of State said that the government of Trinidad and Tobago had admitted last year to offering subsidies to its local manufacturers. He stressed the point that this is a more significant issue which needs to be addressed, rather than the current administration trying to comply with a provision under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC)’s Common External Tariff (CET). The provision Jagdeo referenced stipulates that certain items, particularly raw materials, imported by manufacturers are now subjected to being taxed. Jagdeo said that incentives are important and
as such, duty free concessions would play a big role in cutting costs. However the implementation of the CET, he said will reduce the impact of concessions. On a previous occasion, Jagdeo had said that his party allowed tax exemptions on these items using the Customs Act. According to him, doing so was not a breach of the Treaty, but simply an application of domestic law for the benefit of local manufacturers. This was done so as to process the necessary inputs into the sector. Jagdeo took the position that if Guyana is being asked to comply with the list of ineligibles as highlighted in the RTC, then the other member states of CARICOM should justify the subsidies which they grant their manufacturers. He posited that for full compliance to be promoted, then it must come as a whole and not partially. The Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) had said that the imposition of tax on ineligibles will result in manufacturers paying more for imported raw materials. This will inevitably lead to consumers paying higher prices for certain commodities, thereby reducing their competitiveness in the market. Jagdeo said yesterday that Guyana will never be one of the large manufacturing nations of the world, but insisted that creative ways must be found to deal with the issue. He believes that Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin should use the opportunity now to open up a full debate on the matter, recognizing that persons will take various positions on the Continued on page 9
Thursday August 25, 2016
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Kaieteur News
A lesson not learnt A Minister has learnt a lesson. So he says! There are people in Guyana who are keen to ensure that he is taught a lesson: that he is punished for the controversial contract that was signed by his Ministry for the rental of a bond located on Sussex Street. The deal is now being referred to as ‘Bondgate.’ A Cabinet sub-committee which examined the contract has reportedly asked the Minister to apologize to the National Assembly. This is, no doubt, intended to avoid the introduction by the Opposition of a motion to debate whether the Minister should be sent to the Committee of Privileges of the National Assembly, for the
answers he gave to the National Assembly when he, the Minister, was being questioned on the bond deal. The opposition does not have a majority in the National Assembly, and therefore cannot succeed in having any motion passed to place the matter before the Committee of Privileges. But the mere attempt by the opposition will cause a vote to be taken, and this can be embarrassing to the government, since it may appear to be a case of suppressing transparency Even in the absence of such a debate or motion, the Speaker can sanction the Minister if he is of the view that the Minister has misrepresented facts to the National Assembly. The
government may be hoping to avoid both scenarios by simply asking the Minister to apologize. The Minister should not be facing the sort of pressure that he is facing. After all, he said that he has learnt a lesson. But is he acting on that lesson? If the Minister took positions based on what he was told by his senior functionaries within the Ministry of Public Health, it is for the Minister to indicate just who misled him on this matter. The Minister should not be taking all the blame if he does not know the owner of the building which was the subject of the rental contract for storing medicines and other health supplies, or if he
Former Health Minister to now fate today …on insulting language charge
To know fate today: Dr. Bheri Ramsarran Former Minister of Health under the PPP administration, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran who is before the court on a charge of using insulting language is expected to know his fate
today. Ramsaran is on trial in the Whim Magistrate’s court before Magistrate Charlyn Artiga. He is accused of using
insulting language towards Women’s Rights Activist, Sherlina Nageer on Monday 20th April, 2015, while outside the Whim Magistrate’s Court. His lawyers, Mursaline Bacchus and Adrian Anamayah, had given details on their client who is 56 years old and lives at 141 Block B Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara. He is single and is a medical doctor; it was the first time that he was appearing in court for a matter of such nature. The Virtual Complainant, Sherlina Nageer, was present in court with a number of women’s rights activists. Prosecutor Inspector Phillip Sheriff is presenting the state’s case. Ramsaran’s lawyers had moved to the high court to have the matter thrown out. The lawyers had stated that after perusing the documents Continued on page 11
had nothing to do with the deal, or if he was misled. If the Minister of Health was not given the correct information or was not privy to all the details about the bond and whether drugs were being stored there; and if this led to the problems with his answers to the National Assembly, the Minister, instead of learning a lesson, needs to make an example out of the person who may not have been forthcoming to him. If the full facts were not known to the Minister at the time he was cross-examined by the opposition members of the National Assembly, then it is more than likely that the full facts were also not known to Cabinet when it approved of the deal. It is hard to imagine that Cabinet would approve of the contract price for the rental of the Sussex Street bond, if they had a comparison before them as to the pricing per square foot of the New GPC bond as compared to the Sussex Street facility. Cabinet therefore may have been in the same position as the National Assembly in terms of full disclosure. The Minister therefore needs to expose just who had incorrectly advised him. He needs to call names and to indicate whether the person or persons deliberately misinformed or did not fully inform him about the deal. He needs to state who signed the contract. He needs
to indicate how the Ministry knew about this facility, who introduced them to this bond, and how the person knew that the government needed additional storage. He also needs to take the media on a tour of the government bond at Diamond so that they can see the desperate need for additional space. There is another aspect to the matter. Why is Cabinet still giving its no-objection to contracts? The APNU+AFC coalition said that it would have discontinued this practice. So, regardless of whether the Public Procurement Commission was in place, there is no reason why Cabinet should be doing what the APNU+AFC, when it was in
opposition, said it would discontinue. There is no conceivable reason why the Cabinet should be using its precious hours to have to go through contracts to grant noobjections. There is a new Tender Board in place, one put there by the new government. So why not let the Tenders be dealt there and there alone, have the Bid Protest Committee in place, and deny Cabinet a role in approving contracts? The Minister may have learnt his lesson, but Cabinet does not seem to have learnt its own.
From page 8 issue. He went a step further to mention freight and Information Communication Technology (ICT) as other issues which need to be considered regarding the exportation of products as well as increasing productivity. He said that emphasis on ICT will address the issue of training. Jagdeo reminded that the Board of Industrial Training had embarked on a programme to produce more skilled people. Further on his list of suggestions, Jagdeo also argued that granting special tax rates can encourage competitive manufacturing. He admitted that taking this
step would see the coalition government going a step further than his administration. According to him, this special tax rate would be given to persons who produce similar items locally which are currently being imported. A recent article published by this newspaper revealed that certain traders are importing rice from Pakistan, Roti from Suriname, Sweet Tamarind, Coconut water and Tamarind Candy Balls from Thailand, Plantain Chips from Jamaica and Cane Juice from Canada. All of these commodities are native to Guyana.
Opposition Leader recommends...
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Kaieteur News
Thursday August 25, 2016
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
I have written the JSC on the trial of Kwame McCoy et al The press cannot report on court hearings that are ongoing. The court takes a serious view of that, and contempt proceedings are likely to occur. In the United States, there is a completely different approach. The networks have legal analysts and at the end of each day, the analysts assess the weight of the evidence so far and ponder on the question of the purpose it serves to both the prosecution and defence. In Guyana, there can be debate in the press on what
is reported in a court case. The most famous example of this was in the libel trial where then President, Bharrat Jagdeo sued me and this newspaper. In testimony that was reported in the press, chief witness for Mr. Jagdeo, Roger Luncheon told the court that there was no African Guyanese at the time eligible for a diplomatic posting in Guyana’s Foreign Service, and that the government sold a plot of land in Pradoville 2 to a PNC official in Linden, Mr. Mingo. From that day, there was widespread debate on those two revelations. On Tuesday, I gave testimony in the trial of Kwame McCoy, Jason Abdulla and Shawn Hinds for the 2010 attack on me. What transpired in the courtroom
was in the press. In fact, I got a call informing me that the reporting was on one of the television channels. This newspaper has reported on what took place in the courtroom. I am deeply perplexed at three strange occurrences in that court and reported in the media. I went home and composed a letter to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) asking for an inquiry. I am fearful of returning to give evidence in that trial until three grey areas can be made explicable to me. First, Attorney Latchmie Rahamat requested the magistrate to issue me with an official warning. I was taken by surprise, because it meant I had committed an indiscretion. My duty was to ask for a description of that indiscretion. I twice made that
request to Magistrate Latchman. The magistrate didn’t ask Ms. Rahamat what I should be warned about. The magistrate didn’t meet my request. Given these circumstances, I have to reenter that courtroom to answer Ms. Rahamat again. Could she again ask that I be warned? Warned for what? Secondly, before Attorney Glenn Hanoman could ask me any question, he got up, addressed the magistrate, requesting she take into account my demeanour, and that demeanour should have a bearing on the outcome of the case. The magistrate nodded her head in agreement. Again, the court had an obligation to explain what unbecoming act I had committed. I asked the
magistrate twice for an explanation so I can avoid the charge again. She did not meet my request. I come to the third occurrence. Under cross examination by Mr. Hanoman, there were questions I did not understand, and could not understand, because the juxtaposition of words made no semantic or grammatical sense. One vivid example should be noted. I was asked about my attacker, “You didn’t see him never again.” I could not answer that question in the grammatical form it was put, because the sentence construction was terribly bad grammatical presentation. There were several questions of a similar nature. I was asked, “When you were seeking to describe the assailant….” I never sought to describe the assailant. I told the court I would be happy to answer a question that went like this, “When you described the assailant.” It was at this point, Mr. Hanoman asked the judge to contemplate the decision to rule me mentally incompetent to remain as a witness. I am not aware the magistrate has the psychiatric training to make such a pronouncement.
Frederick Kissoon I made contact with the prosecutor, Mr. Bostwick, to inform him that in all three incidents cited, he was a witness, and I informed the JSC of his status as a witness. I don’t know what the JSC will do; if they will ignore my request for an inquiry or proceed. But it was clear to me that I was being intimidated in that courtroom and I made the bold statement to the court, for everyone to hear, that I would not be intimidated. I am not going back into that courtroom unless I can be told what it is I did to warrant a warning from the magistrate, what it was about my demeanour that could determine the outcome, and my insistence she cannot declare me mentally incompetent. My JSC letter was copied to the prosecutor and Magistrate Lutchman.
Thursday August 25, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Another beaten ‘bandit’ remanded — also charged for illegal gun Collis Amos, the other man who was severely beaten by residents of North Ruimveldt after he and his alleged accomplice Patrick Goodluck attempted to rob a resident from the community, was yesterday remanded to prison on two charges, by Magistrate Judy Latchman. Amos, 21, a construction worker, of T72 Sophia, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that on August 17, at Georgetown, he attempted to commit robbery under-arms. The charge further read that he attempted to rob Roger Lovell. On Monday, Goodluck, 22, a sawmill worker, of North Sophia was also remanded to prison after being charged with this same offence. It was further alleged that on the same day, at Georgetown, Amos had a .9mm pistol in his possession when he was not the holder of a firearm licence. Amos, who was unrepresented by an attorney pleaded not guilty to this charge. It appeared as though Amos was experiencing intense pain. He had several visible cuts and bruises about his body. Like Goodluck,
Amos’s face was also swollen and there were a number of stitches in his head. The police in a release had said that they are investigating an alleged attempted robbery under arms by two males, one of whom was armed with a handgun. Investigations revealed that Lovell was at home sleeping when he was awakened by the men, who demanded cash and jewellery. When the victim refused, he was beaten about his head and body. During the process, he raised an alarm and a group of public- spirited individuals from the community responded and managed to disarm the gunman. They then inflicted a severe beating on the intruders. Police Prosecutor Kerry Bostwick did not relate any facts of the matter to the court. However, he opposed bail for Amos on the first charge, based on the fact that a gun was used during the commissioning of the offence. He pointed out that the virtual complainant (VC) positively identified Amos at the crime scene. However, the VC was not present for
Former Health Minister... From page 9 their client is convinced that the prosecution hasn’t established the ingredients of the charge based on the statements that were supplied to the defence. However that matter was dismissed and the trial continued in the Magistrate’s court. The Prosecution’s case was conducted by Inspectors Althea Solomon, Bernard Brown and Phillip Sheriff at different stages. The defence had put forward a no case submission. However this was overruled by the magistrate who ordered that they lead a defence.
yesterday’s court hearing. Bostwick further opposed bail on the ground that there is a likelihood the defendant might tamper with the prosecution’s witness, Roger Lovell, since he knows where the man resides. On the firearm charge, Bostwick objected to bail citing that no special reasons were provided to satisfy the court. Goodluck’s attorney Paul Fung-a-Fat had told the court that his client’s situation is a clear case of mistaken identity. During a bail application, the lawyer claimed that Goodluck was in the “wrong place at the wrong time.” He claimed that on the day in question, his client was walking through the area to go and visit a friend when he was attacked. The lawyer had told the court that his client sustained several injuries about his body as a result of the beating he received from the residents. Fung-a Fat added that Goodluck lost four teeth and had to receive stitches to his head, neck and eyes. Amos and Goodluck were instructed to return to court on September 6, when they will appear before the Chief Magistrate.
REMANDED: Collis Amos
REMANDED: Patrick Goodluck
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Kaieteur News
Thursday August 25, 2016
GTU representative belatedly dropped from Education COI A key education stakeholder – the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) – has been dropped from the Ministry of Education’s Commission of Inquiry (COI). At the commencement of the COI, a representative of the GTU was asked to be a part of the Commission. GTU President, Mr. Mark Lyte was named the GTU representative. However, this publication was reliably informed that the Union’s representation was discontinued about a month ago, reportedly because of a lack of funds. Reports suggest that a request was made to Cabinet for the individuals sitting on the Commission to be paid a stipend. However, Cabinet advised that only five persons sit on the Commission. This reportedly resulted in the Union’s representative being excluded. This publication was told that the Union has not taken this development lightly and is currently considering a reaction if the decision is not reversed. While the GTU President admitted that the Union has been ejected from the Commission, he disclosed that further comment from the Union on the matter will be issued at a later time. However, another official close to the education system, in commenting on the matter, questioned whether there was an ulterior motive behind excluding the Union from the Commission. “How can you exclude a key stakeholder from an important process like this?” the official asked, adding “the way I see it, these people
Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine
GTU President, Mr. Mark Lyte
don’t seem to have any regard for the Union which is supposed to be a main partner in this whole process to get answers on the way forward.” The COI had commenced in April with former Chief Education Officer, Ed Caesar, as the chairperson and the GTU, the private sector and other representatives fully on board. Just last week, Permanent Secretary within the Ministry, Ms Delma Nedd, disclosed that the COI is ongoing and is expected to conclude in December. A crucial focus of the COI is to determine how to improve the delivery of education, which is a primary task of the teachers who are represented by the Union. “We are hoping, coming out of that inquiry, that we will have recommendations going forward,” said Nedd, as she disclosed that some of the key stakeholders to give input to the ongoing discussions are parents, guardians and the private sector. She nevertheless noted that “we are asking for
everyone to come on board and give us your feedback as to how we can improve our students’ performance across the country.” Lyte, in the month of May, while still a member of the Commission, had noted that while the Ministry should be commended for organising the COI, he was concerned whether the recommendations would indeed be implemented. “They are finding out that quite a lot has not been happening that should have been happening. It is left to be seen what will be done with the findings of the Commission, because we can have a Commission that finds all these things happening and then nothing happens thereafter. This is what worries the Union, because if it is you can’t deal with simple matters like teachers’ welfare, how are you going to deal with issues at a pace that would bring some satisfaction to children and teachers and the community?” Lyte had asked. The COI into the Continued on page 21
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Guyana to learn from T&T on pitfalls of oil industry Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago are ramping up efforts to collaborate on this country’s development of the oil and gas sector. Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, and Minister of Energy and Energy Industries of Trinidad and Tobago, Nicole Olivierre, met on Wednesday on the matter. According to the Ministry, the Trinidadian official made it clear that her Government is keen to collaborate with Guyana to learn from their experience and to support this country’s efforts to develop its petroleum sector. “Having had several decades of experience we can certainly assist the Government on guiding them on the various pitfalls to avoid when dealing with the multinational companies and developing the industry for the benefit of the people of Guyana,” she said. Minister Olivierre said that Trinidad and Tobago would certainly have advice on how to prepare the Guyanese people on how to absorb the jobs that will become available because of Guyana’s recent discovery. US-owned ExxonMobil last year discovered a significant deposit of oil in a concession offshore Georgetown. Another well this year confirmed that the area indeed has oil in commercial quantities. “We certainly would like to share our technical expertise and our educational facilities to the
Government of Guyana so that the people can really benefit,” said Olivierre. According to Minister Trotman, the engagement between the two Caribbean governments is a good thing. “It follows on meetings held between President David Granger and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Keith Rowley for the two countries to draw closer, and for Guyana in particular to gain knowledge and experience and expertise from Trinidad’s journey to becoming an oil producing country,” he said. Trotman called the discussions a first and welcome step, and expressed the hope that later in the year, Guyana will conduct a similar visit to Trinidad and Tobago to further the cooperation on the oil and gas sector in terms of transfer of knowledge. “We are looking for scholarships for students… training in terms of bringing Trinidadians here and sending Guyanese there,” he said. Trinidad and Tobago, like a number of other countries, has being offering to help Guyana develop the country’s oil and gas industry. A major portion of the Twin Island’s foreign exchange comes from oil exports. Guyana is a major purchaser of oil. Today, an oil and gas lecture by Professor Andrew J u p i t e r, C h a i r m a n o f P e t r o t r i n ’s B o a r d o f Directors, is scheduled to be held in the Savannah Suite of the Pegasus Hotel Guyana.
We are humans, not a Cabinet of Angels... From page 3 closer to Georgetown. He noted, too, that Government has agreed for the rental fee to be renegotiated with a view to having it reduced. Ramjattan said that if this cannot be done, then he would imagine that the contract would have to be revoked. Kaieteur News then asked the Minister why G o v e r n m e n t w o u l d n ’t simply revoke the contract now and start anew. The Attorney-at-Law said that it is not advisable to revoke at this stage, especially when certain provisions at the bond are already in place. Some members of the Opposition have commentated that Norton’s behaviour has placed the Government on the
precipice of a credibility crisis. The Public Security Minister said he can understand this position, while adding that the Government understands that it will obviously pay some penalty for the blunder. He agreed too, that it has done some damage to the image of the Government but again stressed, “We are not perfect…” Noting that some members of the Opposition have said that an apology is not enough, Ramjattan said, “What they want? They want blood? They want him sacked? Let them bring their Privileges Motion in Parliament and we will handle it in the Committee…Norton deserves a second chance.”
From left are Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson, Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes, Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, Minister of Energy and Energy Industries of Trinidad and Tobago Nicole Olivierre and Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman.
Kaieteur News
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Thursday August 25, 2016
Man gunned down…
Suspect thought men wanting to kill him were in car T
he man who opened fire on Tuesday night when a car turned on his bridge in front of his Tucville, Georgetown home - killing a father of one and wounding a 22-year-old woman - has reportedly told the cops that he thought that persons intent on killing him were in the vehicle. The alleged shooter, who has been identified as a contractor, gave police a statement, claiming that he had an argument earlier in the day with a group of men, who threatened to return and kill him. The suspect alleged that when he noticed a heavilytinted car on his bridge around 21:20 hrs Tuesday night, he thought that the men had returned to make good their threat, so he decided to open fire first in an effort to save himself.
However, the occupants of the car were not Benn’s would-be attackers. They were 24-year-old Colin Perreira of Barr Street, Kitty and 22-year-old Gail Ann Chacon. The police in a release said that they are investigating an alleged murder committed on Colin Perreira and attempted murder of Gail Ann Chacon by a licensed firearm holder. According to the police, investigations so far have revealed that Perreira, who was driving a heavily tinted motor car, with the other victim seated in the front passenger seat, attempted to turn around the vehicle, in front of the suspect’s residence. In the process, the suspect, who was in his yard, drew his licenced handgun and discharged several rounds at the vehicle, hitting
The location where the shooting took place the victims about their bodies. Perreira was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) while the 22-year-old woman is said to be in a stable condition. Kaieteur News was told that Perreira and Chacon worked for the same person and at the time of the shooting, the father of one
Gail Ann Chacon was dropping his co-worker home. The 22-year-old woman lives a few houses away from the shooter. At Perreira’s home yesterday, his mother could not speak. A relative said that they are all trying to cope with the young man’s sudden demise. “It is hard. If he was sick and died it wouldn’t have been so difficult, but this was a healthy man who left home to make two drops and never came home back because he was murdered. His child will never know her father,” the
Colin Perreira and his daughter woman lamented. She added that the father of one had used his brother’s car to drop home the injured woman and another person. The woman admitted that the car was heavily tinted. Meanwhile, the injured woman’s uncle, Peter Jeffrey said that they were home and heard rapid gunshots and his grandchildren rushed out of the yard to see what was happening. “They see this boy (Perreira) coming and he said he get shoot and I asked him where is Gail, and he
said that she in the car and me and her father rushed to the car and pulled her out,” Jeffrey recalled. He explained that while they were trying to get his niece out of the vehicle, the suspect was standing there with his gun in his hands. According to Jeffrey, the shooter was telling persons at the scene that he had a problem with someone who threatened to kill him. “He said that when he saw the tinted car, he thought it was the person who wanted to kill him.”
Kaieteur News
Thursday August 25, 2016
PAGE 15
Missing boy’s body in drain…
DPP recommends murder charge A man who reportedly confessed to his wife of killing 14-year-old Akeem Grimmond, whose body was found in a drain at Number 61 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, last Monday, two days after he went missing, will be charged with murder. Yesterday Divisional C o m m a n d e r, A s s i s t a n t Commissioner Ian Amsterdam confirmed that charges will be laid against the suspect. Kaieteur News was told that the file which was sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) - for advice on the way forward was returned to the police late yesterday. The DPP has recommended that the suspect be charged with murder. He will more than likely make his first court appearance today. It was the suspect’s wife, who reportedly helped police to crack this case. On Tuesday, the woman reportedly went to the police and claimed that her husband admitted to killing the lad, and also told her to “buy coffee and biscuits” for the
Section ‘B’ Number 61 Village, was last seen alive around 17:30 hrs last
DEAD: 14-year-old Akeem Grimmond slain boy’s wake. Police subsequently arrested the suspect, who denied the allegation. A post mortem conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan gave the cause of death as suffocation and compaction of mud in the airways. The findings suggested that someone had pressed the 14-year-old boy’s facedown in the drain in which
he was found. Because decomposition had set in, the pathologist was reportedly unable to detect further signs of assault. The slain boy’s step father, Ryan Persaud said that the teen’s death is a tragedy and stressful on his pregnant wife, who is scheduled to deliver this week. Persaud said that the suspect is a ‘junkie’ who lives a few villages away. Grimmond, of 53
Saturday when he left his home to tend to some cows. According to his mother, 32-
year-old Parbattie Takurdyal, her son would (Continued on page 17)
Kaieteur News
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Thursday August 25, 2016
Violent behaviour in our society must be eradicated - Ramjattan
- Corrective measures initially aimed at 20 communities The Community Crime and Violence Prevention component of the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP) was launched yesterday morning, where it was highlighted that 20 communities will be benefitting from capacity building and non-conflict resolution training among other measures to curb the crime and violence issue in Guyana. The CSSP is funded through a US$15M (over G$3B) loan from the Inter-American Development Bank. The specific objective of this component is to improve behaviour for non-violent conflict resolution in selected communities, which will contribute to the overall aim of the programme - to contribute to the reduction of crime and violence within the State. This component will also seek to address the high incidence of violent behaviour at the community level which is as a result of the prevalence of social norms that tolerate the use of violence in
FROM LEFT: Deputy Mayor of Georgetown, Sherod Duncan; IDB Country Representative, Sophie Makonnen; Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan; Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry and Permanent Secretary (PS), Daneilla McCalmon at the launch yesterday. interpersonal relationships, etc. Delivering an overview of the component was Community Action Specialist, Mark Ross, who explained that this component accounts for 38.2 percent or US$5.7M of the CSSP project. He explained that the approval of the IDB followed the identification of 20 communities, and was based on a two-staged methodology. The first stage, he explained, was the accumulating of crime data
at the community level for murder for the period 2010 to 2013; and domestic violence, robberies, breaking and entering and larceny for the years 2011 to 2013. Using this data, Ross said that 25 communities with the highest crime rates in Guyana were indentified. The shortlisted communities were then ranked in terms of suitability for intervention based on the range of additional criteria,
including the percentage of youths and young adults; the percent of persons who have primary or lower education; the percent of persons who have low formal qualification; the percent of unemployed persons; the population size in each community and the ethnic composition of each community. The final 20 communities that were selected, Ross said, are: Vreed-en-Hoop in Region Three; Albouystown, Charlestown,
Sophia, South Ruimveldt, Alberttown, Kingston, La Penitence, McDoom, Providence, Annandale, Buxton, Friendship and Enmore in Region Four; Rosignol, Friendship, Albion, Port Mourant, Adelphi and Angoy’s Avenue in Region Six; and Wismar in Region Ten. Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, who delivered the keynote address, told (Continued on page 20)
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Contractors object to $55M dump truck deal awarded to mining company Contractors are objecting to what they consider a questionable award of a multimilliondollar contract for two dump trucks to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. The award for $55.4M was recently made to a company called El Dorado Trading - a company with virtually no experience in
supplying equipment to Government - the contractors are claiming. Rather, that company is involved in mining. A protest is being prepared by lawyers raising objections and asking for a review of the evaluation process. According to documents seen by Kaieteur News, in
DPP recommends... From page 15 usually tend to a villager’s cows which he would round up in the afternoons. The grief-stricken woman stated that the lad left home as usual to go to the Number 61 backdam to collect the cows, but failed to return. After she did not see him around 20:30 hrs she made a report at the No. 62 police outpost. Search parties were then organized and the badly decomposed body was found around 15:00 hrs in a drain aback of a burial ground some 700 yards west of the public road in the same village. The corpse reportedly bore a fourinch wound behind the left ear. Grimmond was clad in the same clothes that he had left home with - a pair of green short pants and red and white vest. Kaieteur News understands that the suspect was previously charged for murder.
A $55M million contract award for the supply of two dump trucks to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure has raised questions. March 2016, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) issued an ‘Invitation for Bids’ for the supply and delivery of two lots. The first lot was for two dumps trucks - each with capacity of 20 cubic yards. The trucks were for the ministry’s Special Projects Unit. The tenders were opened on April 12. According to bid information, eight offers to supply the trucks came in. They were Dax Contracting - $70,200,000; Car Care Enterprise $42,500,000; S. Jagmohan Hardware Supplies and
Construction Services$57,600,000; El Dorado Trading - $55,400,000; R. Bassoo and Sons $46,970,000; Industrial Supply of Guyana $51,639,840; Samaroo Investment - $84,100,000 and Japarts - $50,000,000. It meant that of the eight tenders, four were below that of El Dorado Trading. The Engineer’s Estimate was $48M. Two contractors who complained said that according to the bid documents, there were specific conditions for the companies submitting tenders. To qualify, the
companies had to show experience as a supplier in carrying out one or more supplies in the last five years. The bid documents also said that the Ministry would award the contract to the bidder whose proposal was determined to be substantially responsive to the requirements of the bidding documents and who offered the lowest evaluated bid. This is providing that the bidder had been proven eligible. According to the contractors, there is no evidence that the mining company has experience in
supplying equipment to the Ministry before. At least 50 percent of the monies have to be paid within one month of the contract being signed, with the balance on delivery. Over time, there have been complaints of the handling of tenders by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, with accusations of corruption in the bidding process. A new board was installed last year with Government announcing the establishment of a Bid Protest Committee a few months ago.
Kaieteur News
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Thursday August 25, 2016
Commonwealth offers to help improve public service -55 indentified for first batch in Staff College Guyana has received several offers of assistance to improve the country’s public service. The disclosures were made yesterday by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, who said that the offers came during his recent participation at public administration and public service conferences in Putrajaya, Malaysia, last week. According to the Ministry of the Presidency, the engagement was essentially three separate forums rolled into one - the International Conference on the Blue Ocean Strategy, the Biennial Conference of the Commonwealth Association of Public Administration Management and the Meeting of Ministers of the Public Service in the Commonwealth. Harmon explained that Guyana was offered assistance by the Commonwealth to re-train existing public servants on current methodologies. Assistance was also offered for the preparation of the curriculum for the Public Service Staff College. Additionally, Guyana was given the option by the Commonwealth Secretariat to host the 2018 edition of the conference,
Minister of State, Joseph Harmon (sixth from right - back row) with participants at the conference in Putrajaya, Malaysia. but Minister Harmon explained that a formal offer has to be made to the Government, which will then have to be deliberated on by the Cabinet before a final decision is made. “This is a huge step, there is great potential. These conferences allow you access to the persons who will give access to the resources to develop what you have,” the Minister said. Giving an update on the Public Service Staff College, Minister Harmon explained that the
introduction of this institution will see a significant change in the culture of the public service. Already, 55 young individuals have been identified to be trained in the first batch. The college was announced last year by the new administration and tapped as a major forum to improve the public service. Harmon explained that the Government is looking at three tiers of training for public servants. The first is the entry level, where people are trained for a period of
eight months at the end of which they will receive an equivalent qualification to that of a university diploma. The second tier targets existing public servants and keeps them abreast with relevant skills and systems. The third tier is designed for senior public servants, including permanent secretaries and other upper-level public officers. The Minister also spoke about how Malaysia used its National Blue Ocean Strategy to provide more efficient public services to its
people by bringing together all public offices in central hubs that operate seven days per week, 24 hours per day. He said that this is what the Government of Guyana is looking at, and noted that the ministerial outreaches, while only a temporary arrangement, would be a step in the right direction so as to make public service more accessible to ordinary Guyanese. The Minister was accompanied by Head of the Scholarships Division in the Department of Public Service, Soyinka Grogan.
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
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Thursday August 25, 2016
Violent behaviour in our society must be... From page 16 participants that in order to increase the level of safety and security, the reduction of crime and violence is high on Government’s agenda, since both crime and violence pose a real threat to public security and the human rights of all Guyanese. The Minister extended gratitude, as he cited the turnout yesterday at the Shopping Plaza Tarmac along the Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt, as an indication that citizens are concerned. He therefore took the time to point out that his Ministry - and by extension, the Government of Guyana understands the need to foster cooperation and partnerships with communities to address the problems related to Public Security in an effort to safeguard the wellbeing of all citizens. Ramjattan also pointed out that this ‘shift’ is not new, and is a result of successes of similar programmes in other countries. “Already we are partnering locally with
A section of the gathering yesterday, where Finance Minister, Winston Jordan (sitting second from left) Acting Commissioner, David Ramnarine and Deputy Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels were also present. communities throughout the country, through the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Community Policing Groups (CPGs) and the Neighbourhood Police, and these partnerships have led to many successes in crime detection and crime prevention efforts,” he said. T h e M i n i s t e r emphasised that during his
stewardship thus far, he has discovered that from the partnership between communities and the police, there is much to be gained and puts the police – or the State – in a position where it is seen as not being an external authority that is distant and feared by the community. “There is so much consensus building and reciprocity (and) social cohesion when communities actively participate and partner with the police force; when it acts as an organiser – that is the police force, to help in building capacity to find solutions in the communities. Communities then feel empowered and self confident and then they come up creatively with
solutions to their satisfaction. It seems all of a sudden there is a new found altruism and trust to create solutions rather than being passive recipients in a welfare state culture. This then causes the communities to undertake a variety of positive activities,” Ramjattan said. The Minister went on to say that he is impressed with this CSSP component, while noting that it will have a far wider impact than just crime and violence reduction; it will also impact the realisation of the potential of ordinary citizens. “Crime and violence are developmental issues, because they both stymie national and human development and our peaceful coexistence in Guyana. Crime and violence
have direct effects on human welfare, both in the short and long term, as they do frustrate entrepreneurial pursuits and negatively impact productivity. “Increase in crime and violence have also forced the government and governments of the world, to divert resources from other priority areas such as education, health, social services, et cetera.” Ramjattan said that according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), each year approximately 200,000 adolescents – between the ages of 10 and 19 – die globally, and many more sustain serious injuries because of crime and violence. He added that the World Bank, the United Nations (UN), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and many other regional and global authorities all recognise the urgency of addressing crime and violence. The UN report on crime and violence in the Caribbean, dated March 2007, concluded that youth violence is neither
retractable nor youth the problem, because youth represents the unique window of opportunity to both prevent and reduce crime and violence in society at large, the Minister noted. “So though we see it as a problem, it is basically, also the solution. Of concern to our Government is the fact that the face of crime and violence is substantial with those of adolescents and youths, who are both perpetrators and victims, and who should be in school or gainfully employed otherwise.” Minister Ramjattan added that the age cohort of zero to 29 years represents more than half of Guyana’s population and therefore, emphasis must be place on creating opportunities in the enabling environments available so as to reduce the 40 percent youth unemployment rate that Guyana is currently faced with. This will be done, the Minister assured, so that Guyanese youths can reach their full potential. Present at the event were other Ministers of Government including the Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry; Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan; a representative of the Ministry of Social Protection, Diego Alphonso, who delivered remarks on behalf of Minster Volda Lawrence; the Deputy Mayor of Georgetown, Sherod Duncan; the Acting Commissioner of Police, David Ramnarine; the Deputy Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels; IDB Country Representative, Sophie Makonnen; and Heads of several NonG o v e r n m e n t a l Organisations and representatives of the Private Sector.
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Italy rescuers toil through night seeking quake survivors as death toll hits 159
Rescuers work on a collapsed building following an earthquake in Amatrice, central Italy, yesterday. REUTERS/Ciro De Luca Reuters - Rescue teams were working through the night to try to find survivors under the rubble that remained of central Italian towns flattened by an earthquake that hit in the early hours yesterday, killing at least 159 people. One hotel that collapsed in the small town of Amatrice probably had about 70 guests, and only seven bodies had so far been recovered, said the mayor of the town that was one of the worst hit by the quake. The strong 6.2 magnitude quake razed homes and buckled roads in a cluster of mountain communities 140 km (85 miles) east of Rome. It was powerful enough to be felt in Bologna to the north and Naples to the south, each more than 220 km (135 miles) from the
epicentre. “Tonight will be our first nightmare night,” said Alessandro Gabrielli, one of hundreds preparing to sleep in tents erected by rescue workers in fields and parking lots, each one housing 12 people whose homes had been destroyed. “Last night, I woke up with a sound that sounded like a bomb,” he added. Rescuers working with emergency lighting in the darkness saved a 10-year-old girl, pulling her out of the rubble alive, where she had lain for some 17 hours in the hamlet of Pescara del Tronto. Many other children were not so lucky. In the nearby village of Accumoli, a family of four, including two boys aged 8 months and 9 years, were buried when their house imploded.
Turkish tanks roll into Syria, pushing Islamic State out of key border town Reuters - Syrian rebels backed by Turkish special forces, tanks and warplanes entered one of Islamic State’s last strongholds on the Turkish-Syrian border yesterday, in Turkey’s first major U.S.-backed incursion into its southern neighbour. A column of at least nine Turkish tanks crossed into Syria with the group of largely Arab and Turkmen rebels to drive Islamic State out of Jarablus and surrounding villages. A Reuters reporter at the border witnessed intense bombardments, with palls of black smoke rising around the town. President Tayyip Erdogan said the operation was targeting both Islamic State and the Kurdish YPG militia, whose gains in northern Syria have alarmed Turkey. Ankara views the YPG as an extension of Kurdish militants fighting an insurgency on its own soil, putting it at odds with
Tayyip Erdogan Washington, which sees the group as an ally in the fight against Islamic State. “Whether it’s Daesh (Islamic State) or the YPG, they are all terrorist organisations,” Erdogan told a joint briefing in Ankara after meeting U.S. Vice President Joe Biden.
“A terrorist organisation fighting another terrorist organisation doesn’t make it innocent,” he said, adding that Islamic State had been forced out of Jarablus and that the town was now under control of the Syrian rebels. Biden, who flew into Turkey, a key NATO ally with the alliance’s second biggest armed forces, on a pre-planned trip hours after the operation began, tried to soothe Turkish concerns about Kurdish territorial gains in Syria. “No (Kurdish) corridor. Period. No separate entity on the Turkish border. A united Syria,” he told an earlier news conference with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim. Biden said Washington had made clear to Kurdish militia fighters that they should return east of the Euphrates river again - a red line for Turkey - after helping to capture the city of Manbij south of Jarablus from Islamic State this month.
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SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 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: 626-7040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:6294946 or 225-4822 RAMDASS VISA APPLICATION & immigration services, room A-4, Maraj Building, Georgetown. Call Samantha: 227-0295; 615-9295 Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045 Jadesco Offers: Architectural designs, 3D modeling, building estimation/quotation, rehabilitation works & general construction. Call: 612-0468, 629-3605, email: jadesco15@gmail.com
VACANCY One Trainee A.C, Refrigerator, Technician – Call: 231-0655 Cashier for supermarket 624-0033; Driver for water truck - 680-3863; Pump attendant /Security in store; 680-3863; Porters- Call: 6803863 Assistant Accountant with own transportation & QuickBooks, PAYE, NIS & VAT knowledge -$150,000. Call: 673-5475/kevin@ expresstruckingcorp.com Male & Female workers, machine operators with TI certificate & experienced Accountant, bond clerk. Call: 330-2399; 623-5920 Taxi Drivers wanted between Better- Hope –Enmore. Call A1 Taxi. Call: 220-1000 1 General Domestic able to prepare vegetarian meal. Apply in person @ Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling Stabroek. 1 Mechanic/Welder for interior, must have knowledge of Doosan excavator & engine at least 5yrs experienced. Call: 6859028 (8-3pm)
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Hair station rental at convenient location, Georgetown, Call: 638-1106, discounts given to newcomers, persons with experienced & clients 1 Small one bedroom apartment toilet & bath included single or couple no children. Call between 9 to12pm & 2pm to 5pm @ Charlestown. Call: 225-1418 Bachelor’s apartment to rent. Call 233-0327 between 7:00pm-8:30pm Upper Flat; three bedrooms at 143 Pike Street Kitty. Contact B.Badal: 234-0733 Apartments for rent at Nandy Park, 2 bedrooms -$70,000. Call: 227-5194
Truck Driver, Skid steer operator, Civil Engineer, Road Foreman, cleaner, security, chef/cook, admin assistant. Call: 603-3997
3 Bedrooms house; top and bottom property at Canal No.2 Polder -$35,000 monthly. Call: 613-1860
Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158
Cook/baker for the Interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020
House located @ 696 Section C, Grove Housing Scheme. Please call 611-1963 for further inquiries
Repairs to LED, Plasma, LCD and other electronic items. Abdul Electronics. Call: 2250391 Guytec Repairs Services & Spares to washing machines, pressure washer, dryer, stoves, refrigerator, treadmill, vacuum, etc –Call: 680-2377/684-2119
Classes for cake decoration, cakes & pastry, bridal accessories, classes start September. Call: 612-4193; 672-8768; 223-3303
Eagle’s: Re-gas -$8,000, Washing machine repairs, Gas Stove, Plasma flat Screen & more @ New Market Street. Call: 697-2969 HEALTH Need Herbal supplements? Contact Hazel’s Herbal Store. Call: 226-9136 TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS) FOR SALE/RENT American Pool Table. Call: 277-0578
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
EDUCATIONAL
IAE: Register for full time school (Grades 7-11) CSEC lessons; adults and school leavers CXC classes. Call Mr. Roberts: 683-5742
3 Bedrooms top flat for rent. Call: 688-1647 EDUCATIONAL Register your child for our after school program for slow learners in Maths, Reading, Spelling Etc. Call: 675-4379
WANTED 1 Male cook in the Interior. Call: 678-0565 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic –Call: 223-7500. Monday-Saturday 8:154:15pm We are interested in buying lands in Farm New Scheme E.B.D, corner lots preferably. Call: 266-0693 Ladies to clean fish & crab in Suriname. Call: +597-8754660 Carpenter/mason and porter. Call: 225-3234; 698-7807 One Arc welder must know to do grill work with limited supervision. Call: 613-3879 1 Live in domestic -$60,000 – Call: 686-2201 Boys & girls to work in the Interior -$80,000. Call: 6592708; 674-1767 Accounts Clerk, send application to info@cevons. com Male Sales assistant/porter @ Sparkle, Meten-Meer Zorg. Apply: Key Food Trading, Mc Doom Villlage Place to rent or buy in Lethem. Call: 609-9223; 6269044 or email:w876@aol.com Experienced female bartender, live in/live out waitress, cooks & bouncers needed @ Eden Bar & Lounge, Garden of Eden-Call: 652-0074
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL. COM Aidan’s Car Rental: 4WD pickup. Call: 698-7807
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM Wings Car & Pickup Rental: Low down payment, cheap reates,special offer for the summer. Call: 690-6494
3 TON CANTER ENCLOSE AND OPEN BACK WITH 4D ENGINE, PRICE -$3.6M, NEVER REGISTERED – CALL: 617-2891 2009 BELTA -$2.3M, 2011 BLUEBIRD -$2.7M, 2009 IST -$2.7, 2012 RACTIS $2.6M, 2009 ARUIS -$2.5M –CALL: 617-2891 RZ minibus -$1.2M, 192 Car $800,000, 2009 unregistered bluebird -$2.8M, excellent condition, owner leaving country. Call: 265-0204; 676-5824 Fielder 2006, Bluebird 2006, Army general 6X6 truck, extendable 40 FT Trailer. Call: 616-5595; 665-3676 One 2008 Toyota IST-Call: 614-9742 SALE @ STAR CARS: PREMIO, RUNX, IST, AXELA, RZ BUS, SPACIO, FIELDER. CALL: 679-3140 2003 Verossa with leather interior & alarm. Call: 6670338 1 Nissan Bluebird 2006 model, PSS series, alarm, headlight, camera. Immaculate condition. Owner migrating. Price $2,300,000- Tel:629-9500 1-2006 GX 470 Lexus 44000 KM, A1 Condition. Call: 661-6161 One Hilux pick up; 4X4 2L Diesel Turbo, sunroof. Call: 693-1480 1-2006 Nissan Dump Canter, 1-Potable trailer. Call: 6626567; 691-4340
La Parfaite Harmonie-$2.3M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$2M (Corner Lot), Zeelugt -$2.3M, Herstelling 4th Bridge -$4M. Call: 642-1252
PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
Tuschen Front (Phase 1) $3.5M, Tuschen (Phase 2) $2M with foundation, Uitvlugt Main Road -$2.3M. Call: 642-1252
Transported property, 5L Hilux pick-up, 1-complete music set. Call: 265-3586
La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.2M & $1.6M, Uitvlugt -$2M (100X50ft), one mining claim -$1.5M. Call: 658-5897; 673-2692
High value transported land and 2 bedrooms newly built house, Greater Diamond E.B.D -$16M negotiable. Call: 265-4338 Property @ 172 Zohora Street and Market Street Better Hope E.C.D. Call: 220-1583/ 1718-847-4196 (NY). Serious buyers only.
TO LET Fully furnished; 2X3 bedrooms, luxury apartments to let (long & short term). Call: 655-3505 2 Bedrooms apartment for rent (semi-furnished) @ Dennis Street, Sophia, (water & light inclusive). Call: 6626567; 691-4340
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. ADORABLE FLUFFY PUPPIES FOR SALE. CALL: 615-0146 Purple Heart: 30X80 $25,000, 32X80 -$28,000, 34X80 -$28,000, 36X80 $28,000, Free Delivery- Call: 688-9712; 651-0717; 671-2490 CAT 320 BL excavator, 428 CAT back hoe, CAT930 Front End, 9 Wheeled Pneumatic Roller -Call: 275-0538; 683-7225 1 Perkins V8 Turbo Charge 170KVa Generator in working condition, Call 223-7380 D4H CAT Bulldozer, Mack 8 Cubic Yard, cement mixer truck, all in working order. Call: 275-0538; 683-7225 AudiA4-$3.7M, BMW-$2.3M, Ist-$1,895,000,Fielder$1,895,000, Spacio-$1,995,000. Contact#650-0402 Prime commercial building for sale @ Broad & Charles Streets, Georgetown, 68,000 square feet. Call: 592-231-6694 1-Leylad DAF-45 $1.5M, 1Cat 928F Loader-$6.9M,1Hyster Forklift-$1.5M, Light To w e r- $ 8 0 0 - 0 0 0 . Contact#650-0402 Double Steel Drum Compactor, CAT 215 Excavator, Leyland DAF55 Truck, 400 GLS, Bitumen Kettle. Call: 275-0538; 6837225 One complete trout boat for sale, less than a year old. Call: 654-2817
LAND FOR SALE
CAR RENTAL CAR RENTAL
VEHICLE FOR SALE
1 Church building in front and 2 story building at the back 30X120, vacant possession, 180 Charolotte Street Bourda. Call:624-7341/ 227-6817/226-5183 Transported property for sale located at Vreed-enHoop not far from the Junction, price negotiable. Call: 638-0271
1 Heavy Duty Juki sewing machine, straight stitch. Call: 642-6079 Muscovy Ducklings- Call: 602-7203 French Muscovy Ducklings for sale -$400 for 1. Call: 671-2474 1-Hooka lounge at Giftland Mall Profitable business. Call: Call: 661-6161 Elevator (good condition), Diesel Generator (23KVA, 110/220V). Call: 231-1284; 223-9719 1-210 Hyundai excavator, good condition, any reasonable offer accepted. Call: 610-0515; 216-1390; 6128009 1 Used QC see DVR 16 Channel -$30,000, 1 Heir Fridge -$35,000, 1 GE washer -$35,000. Call: 646-0966; 6972969 N-27 Perkins engine & dredge. Call: 622-9147 Continue page 23
Thursday August 25, 2016
Police urged to do better, to win back civilians’ trust The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Report, sourcing information from the Government of Guyana’s Justice System Strategy 2006–2010, stated that an estimated 90 percent of prosecutions are unsuccessful, making the Guyana Police Force (GPF) ‘the least-trusted institution in the country’. Weighing in on the issue yesterday was the Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan who was at the time at the launch of Component One of the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP). Ramjattan was asked to comment on the aforementioned analysis in the report to which he replied, “That is quite true, and I’ve learnt of that a number of years ago,” However, Ramjattan said that as Minister, he will be making attempts to ‘try to win back the support’ so that the GPF can be better. “I respect the State Department’s report and will be urging my police force and other enforcement arms to do better in relation to the perception that they are so badly distrusted. I know of situations... only yesterday a couple of people calling the
Minister and telling him about their experiences on the road...The conduct of some of the policemen leaves a lot to be desired and that is what is causing people, members of the public, not to have that great attraction to them. But we have to do lots more, and the training exercise going on will be aiming to ensure that there is better perception index of police,” the Minister said. Ramjattan also pointed out that the GPF is about 1,000 ranks short. “You see, we have a problem, when we graduate some more... a couple that get through with their visas and so on, they migrate. Some get better jobs, because the salaries of police are not that nice and some of them after six (or) seven months break off, because they feel that the job is too hard for that salary and so on,” The Minister said that he will be urging police ranks to put their best foot forward to win back the trust of civilians. He added that through the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)’s support for the Implementation of the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme, the police will be supported in areas of managerial and leadership skills.
Man shot in front of Camp St. prison identified The man who was fatally shot in front of the Camp Street Prison, last Friday, has been identified as 24-year-old Shane Scipio, a patient of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)’s Psychiatric Ward. Scipio was identified by one of his friends, Simpson Sandwell, at the hospital’s mortuary yesterday. Sandwell said that his friend’s relatives are not aware of his death as yet, and he has no idea how to locate them. According to Sandwell, he learnt of Scipio’s death when he read the news. “I last saw him at Demico (a few days before he was shot) and he was behaving bad, so I put him in a taxi and take him to the hospital, but he left and say he will go when he ready.” The man added that he was subsequently informed that Scipio returned to hospital the following day and received his treatment.
Sandwell said that he did not see or hear from his friend since then. The police said that Friday night, Scipio went to the Camp Street Prison, at John and Durban Streets, and behaved in a disorderly manner. He reportedly threw down several steel barriers, in the presence of the ranks guarding the perimeter of the prison. Scipio was taken into custody by ranks of a police patrol, but subsequently returned and continued the said behaviour and actions, in front of the Prison. According to the police, a TSU rank armed with a service weapon and under the supervision of a subordinate officer approached the suspect (Scipio). The suspect then reportedly attacked the rank, to which he (rank) discharged a round—hitting the suspect to the abdomen. Scipio was immediately rushed to the GPHC where he eventually succumbed.
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Kaieteur News
Taxi driver remanded over Guinness bottle brawl A driver attached to a popular city taxi service appeared before a city court yesterday, charged for inflicting grievous bodily harm on another taxi driver of the same service, with a brick and Guinness bottle. Standing before Magistrate Judy Latchman was 36-year-old Trevor Hawker, a father of one, of Hunter Street, Albouystown, Georgetown. He was remanded to prison after pleading not guilty to the charge which alleged that on August 20, at Georgetown, he unlawfully and maliciously inflicted grievous bodily harm
on Kelvin Wills. The court was told that on the day in question, Hawker and his workmate had a misunderstanding over who should go for a customer. It was revealed that an argument ensued and Hawker armed himself with a brick and Guinness bottle and threw them at Wills. Police Prosecutor, Kerry Bostwick informed the court that the injuries Wills received are potentially lifethreatening, according to a medical he has seen. Prosecutor Bostwick objected to bail for the unrepresented man on the
ground that he is known to the virtual complainant. Bostwick explained that the two parties have been employed at the same taxi service for a number of years. The prosecutor told the court that he is afraid the defendant might tamper with Wills, who will be called to testify on behalf of the prosecution. In addition, Bostwick said that Hawker gave a statement to police admitting to the offence. Magistrate Judy Latchman instructed Hawker to return to court on September 7, for statements.
From page 22
PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale at Lot 32 Princess Street, Werk-EnRust- Tel: 621-8767 One (2) plus storey house, 3 self contained bedrooms, fully carpet. Price negotiable. Residential scheme, W.C.DCall: 275-0582, 650-6723 Tuschen, Light St, upfront, 1-2 storey concrete house $23M negotiable, Non-Pariel E.C.D - 1 two storey concrete house 56X36. Call: 642-1252 Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities -price reduced– Call: 662-9335; 612-3244 One two stories concrete building- 45ftX30ft; land 5,606 sq ft, 2nd Bridge Grove New Scheme, E.B.D- Call: 639-3450
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Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
PNP Officials Tight-Lipped About Campaign Donations Scandal The Gleaner - With the People’s National Party (PNP) ensnared in a campaign donations scandal, officials were tight-lipped Tuesday as President Portia Simpson Miller insisted that discussions about the matter remain within the walls of the party’s Old Hope Road, St Andrew, headquarters. A report by treasurer Norman Horne that was leaked on Monday painted a bad state of financial affairs in the party that held state power for 23 of the last 30 years, while also r e vealing worries over funding for the impending local government polls. In detailing that the PNP, up to June 30, had $2.2 million in its bank accounts, Horne alleged that senior party members “collected significant amounts from members of the private sector who were
Portia Simpson Miller earmarked by the Treasury,” but just a few turned over the funds. Paul Burke, general secretary, said the matter was an internal one and was being handled as such, as he refused to discuss the details of the report.
“There is a protocol and convention on those issues, and all these matters are being reviewed and will be shared with the party at the appropriate time. And the appropriate time doesn’t mean that we are delaying, but as soon as we are able to.” That’s the same line he stuck to when questioned about the party’s policy about unused funds donated to candidates for elections. The report said for the year ended June 30, the party’s activities showed that the total assets of $213 million, which had associated revenue of $555 million and incurred expenses of $589 million. “The party incurred a loss of $33.7 million. The loss was due to the 2016 election campaign expenditures incurred that were not budgeted. The loss was funded by short-term loans.”
Brazil court rejects Rousseff request to annul impeachment session Brasília (AFP) - Brazil’s Supreme Court chief justice has rejected a request from suspended president Dilma Rousseff to annul the session at which senators voted to open an impeachment trial against her. Rousseff’s lawyers had argued that some of the procedures used at the session, held August 10, violated her rights. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Ricardo Lewandowski, who will preside over the trial, said Tuesday that neither he nor the Supreme Court could rule on the matter, as it was a decision made in Congress, according to a statement by the court. Even if the court were to weigh in, he said, in his opinion the procedures used at the session “did not harm
Dilma Rousseff the accused.” Rousseff’s defense team has already filed several appeals to stop the process, which have all been rejected. Rousseff was suspended
from office in May over accusations that she fiddled with state accounts to make the numbers look better in an election year. Senators will vote on whether to remove her from office for good after an impeachment trial starting today. Rousseff has been allotted time to testify at the trial, during which she will try to convince senators she is innocent and the victim of a “coup” by her opponents. Senators are expected to remove her from office for good, with polls indicating she does not have the votes needed to return to the presidency. If Rousseff is removed from office, her former vice president Michel Temer will be president until the next elections in 2018.
Devaluation of the Barbados dollar not an option Daily Nation - Minister of Finance Chris Sinckler made this clear Tuesday in response to concerns over the potential impact the Central Bank of Barbados’ financing of part of Government’s deficit on the country’s foreign exchange reserves, could have on the value of the Barbados dollar. Sinckler said: “There is no imminent or perceivable conditions under which a devaluation of the Barbados dollar will be allowed to happen, or be chosen as an option by the Government. “This is established, longstanding Government policy and the
cornerstone of the county’s social, economic and political stability. It will not change.” While conceding that the Central Bank’s accommodation of Government’s financing needs – termed “printing money” – was not the preferred option for a small open and foreign exchange-constrained economy, Sinckler said the occurrence at this time had not directly impacted the reserves as was being promoted, and definitely had not put the value of the local currency at any identifiable risk in the short or medium term.
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Courtney Crum-Ewing murder PI…
Former cop, police witness testify The preliminary inquiry (PI) into the murder of political activist, Courtney Crum-Ewing continued yesterday, with Prosecutor Nigel Hughes calling two witnesses to testify before Magistrate Judy Latchman in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Regan Rodrigues also known as ‘Grey Boy’ of Riverview, Ruimveldt, is accused of killing CrumEwing on March 10, 2015, at Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD). He is currently on remand for the indictable offence. First to take the stand was former policewoman Delecia Brown of Toucan Drive, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown. She testified that during the month of
March 2010, she was employed by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as a Constable attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Crime Scene Unit and stationed at the Brickdam Police Station. According to Brown, she received training in crime scene investigation; photography and fingerprint examination. Also testifying was Devon Bowen, a Police Constable. He witnessed the post mortem examination being conducted on CrumEwing. Magistrate Latchman adjourned the PI for today, when Brown is expected to tender the spent shells she recovered from the crime scene and an analyst report.
According to reports, the bullet-riddled body of CrumEwing was found at Third Avenue, Diamond New Scheme EBD. The 40 year-old was shot twice to the temple, once to the back of the head and twice to the stomach. The police i n a statement had stated that the political activist was accosted by four men in a car, one of whom discharged several rounds, hitting him about the body. It was reported that the killer (s) used a .32 pistol to execute CrumEwing. Minutes before he was gunned down, Crum-Ewing was reportedly heard via bullhorn urging residents of the neighbourhood to vote against the then ruling party, the PPP/C.
Malaria upsurge in Venezuela forces Ministry into protective mode A reported upsurge in malaria in Venezuela has forced the Ministry of Public Health into defensive action. This is according to Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, who noted that Government was first alerted to the state of affairs in Venezuela through an article published in the New York Times. That article, he disclosed, was brought to the attention of Cabinet, following which plans were streamlined to put measures in place to ensure that Guyana does not experience a malaria increase too.Venezuela is Guyana’s neighbour to the west. Based on the article published in the New York Times, because of the dire state of Venezuela’s economy, a number of office workers have been venturing into mining activities to make a living. The article highlighted that: “The country’s economic turmoil has brought malaria back, sweeping the disease out of the remote jungle areas where it quietly persisted and spreading it around the nation at levels not seen in Venezuela for 75 years, medical experts say.” The article continues: “It all starts with the mines. With the economy in tatters, at least 70,000 people from all walks of life have been streaming into this mining region over the past year, said Jorge Moreno, a leading
mosquito expert in Venezuela.As they hunt for gold in watery pits, the perfect breeding ground for the mosquitoes that spread the disease, they are catching malaria by the tens of thousands. “Then, with the disease in their blood, they return home to Venezuela’s cities. But because of the economic collapse, there is often no medicine and little fumigation to prevent mosquitoes there from biting them and passing malaria to others, sickening tens of thousands more people and leaving entire towns desperate for help.” According to Minister Norton, an increase malaria cases has reportedly been detected in an area called Ciudad which is near the border Guyana shares with Venezuela. He noted that the article was of immediate concern to Government and by extension his Ministry, since a number of Guyanese reside close to the border, including those at Karrau, Eterinbang and Kurutuku, all in Region Seven, who usually access medical care in Venezuela. “So we thought that we should visit to make certain there is not an upsurge of malaria on the Guyana side, and to put measures in place to prevent the possibility of an upsurge,” the Minister noted. The mining area in Venezuala is reportedly not unlike Guyana’s and therefore presents the ideal conditions for
mosquitoes transmitting the virus to thrive. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), malaria is caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female mosquitoes. P. falciparum is the most deadly malaria parasite. The first symptoms of malaria include: fever, headache, chills and vomiting that usually appear between 10 and 15 days after the mosquito bite. Without prompt treatment, P. falciparum malaria can progress to severe illness and even death. WHO recommends a multipronged strategy to prevent, control and eliminate malaria. Key interventions include: the use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets and indoor residual spraying, diagnostic testing, and treatment of confirmed cases with effective anti-malarial medicines. In recent years, these measures have dramatically lowered the malaria burden in many settings. However, WHO has noted that malaria transmission continues in many countries around the world and has been known to cause hundreds of thousands of deaths each year. Currently the malaria situation in Guyana is under control, Minister Norton assured.
GTU representative belatedly... From page 12 education system is intended to provide evidence for the revision, upgrading and extension of the Ministry’s Strategic Plan. According to Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, failure to implement the forthcoming recommendations will not be an option. “Who wants to waste time holding a whole
COI, getting recommendations from serious people, and then waste their time by not implementing what is recommended? I don’t want to be part of that!” For this reason, he noted that once recommendations are put forward, the Ministry will seek to implement them. But according to him, i m p l e m e n t i n g recommendations will
obviously require a number of things, costing being paramount. “Already the Ministry of Education consumes the lion’s share of the budget (and) we just have to ensure that all of those resources that the Government puts into education... that we get real quality for what we spend,” the Education Minister had emphasised.
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Clinton leads Trump in key swing states, would likely win election: poll Reuters - If the U.S. presidential election were held today, Democrat Hillary Clinton would win the key swing states of Florida, Ohio and Virginia and have a 95 percent chance of beating Republican Donald Trump to become America’s first female president, according to the Reuters/Ipsos States of the Nation project. The project, which combines opinion polls with an analysis of voting patterns under different election scenarios, shows Clinton currently beating Trump in the popular vote by six percentage points and ahead in 19 states, including most of the larger-population ones that heavily influence the outcome of the election.
Hillary Clinton At the moment, Clinton would win at least 268 votes in the Electoral College, the body that ultimately chooses the next president, just two shy of what she needs to win
the White House. On average, the former secretary of state would win by 108 electoral college votes. Trump would win at least 21 states, many of them with smaller populations, giving him a minimum of 179 electoral votes. The election is still 10 weeks away, and a great deal could change prior to Nov 8. The candidates are running about even in eight states, including Pennsylvania, Michigan and North Carolina, and the polling sample is too small to determine the winner in Alaska, Wyoming and Washington D.C. But Trump would need to win the 21 states currently in his column and sweep all of the remaining “toss-up” states to win the presidency. That is a steep challenge for Trump, whose bare-knuckled, antiestablishment campaign helped him win the Republican Party’s nomination but has so far failed to build broad support with voters.
Thursday August 25, 2016
S. Africa’s ANC mulls early conference to replace top leaders after election losses JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa’s ruling African National Congress is considering holding an early conference to replace its top leaders after its worst election performance since the end of apartheid 22 years ago, it said Tuesday. The elective conference is due to take place in December 2017 to pick a successor for the party’s leader, President Jacob Zuma, but ANC officials said talks
were underway to hold it earlier to have more time to repair the damage after big losses in local polls and prepare for national elections in 2019. The party still won the most votes overall during the Aug. 3 local government elections. But, with its reputation bruised by charges of corruption against Zuma, and with unemployment high and the country teetering on the edge of recession, it lost a lot of support, particularly in major cities.
However, analysts said it was not yet clear whether the conference would be called to replace Zuma or to remove other top party officials critical of the president. The Youth League, which initiated the idea of an early elective conference, is a bastion of support for Zuma within the party. Zuma has himself said he will not stand for a third term, but the party’s constitution does not bar him from doing so.
U.S. seeks Latin American help amid rise in Asian, African migrants Reuters - Washington is seeking closer coordination with several Latin American countries to tackle a jump in migrants from Asia, Africa and the Middle East who it believes are trying to reach the United States from the south on an arduous route by plane, boat and through jungle on foot.
U.S. agents deployed to an immigration facility on Mexico’s southern border have vetted the more than 640 migrants from countries outside the Americas who have been detained at the centre since October 2015, according to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) documents reviewed by Reuters.
The migrants often fly to Brazil, obtain fake passports there, and are smuggled to Panama before heading through Central America to Mexico’s porous southern b o r d e r, a c c o r d i n g t o transcripts of 14 interviews conducted at the centre and other internal briefing documents seen by Reuters.
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Thursday August 25, 2016
Thursday August 25, 2016
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Under 16 Boxers set for Pepsi Bolt’s management moves... Mike Parris action Sunday Under-16 boxers will be involved in pitched battles when competition in the Pepsi sponsored Mike Parris tournament continues on Sunday at the National Gymnasium starting at 1:00pm. President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Steve Ninvalle, informed that this is the second edition of this tournament for the year, the first being in April when the first Schoolboys and Juniors tournament was held here. He disclosed that nine gyms will be participating in Sunday’s event with the defending champions being the Essequibo gym, which is
From page 29 infringement of his trademark rights”. Walker said Bolt’s team has been monitoring for infringements and would take the necessary actions to ensure that his image and trademarks are protected. It did not appear, however, that there were estimates of actual monetary loss or damage associated with the unauthorised use of Bolt’s
under the guidance of Coach Clifton Moore. The nine gyms are expected to furnish about 50 young boxers who will compete in the event. Ninvalle pointed that the association’s focus will be on youth and this event is part of their programme in this regard. GBA like the rest of the Caribbean has been seeking to better their fortunes on the international stage with Ninvalle, who is a Committee Member of AIBA, the International Boxing body, taking his case to that level for assistance even as the region make their moves. He stated that another such tournament is slated for December.
TAURUS (Apr. 21may 21) Empty promises are evident. Your home environment may be volatile if precautions aren't taken. Stay calm and focus on things that will help you und e r s t a n d t h e situation better. GEMINI (May 22June 21) You may be overreacting to personal problems. Talk to someone you trust in order to see the whole picture. CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) The talk you have may be eye-opening with regard to your present situation. You may as well work on projects that will allow you to make progress. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Don't hesitate to sign up for lectures or seminars that will enlighten you. VIRGO (Aug. 23 Sept. 23) A passionate party for two might be just the remedy. Pamper yourself today. Don't argue with family.
Brazil, further firmly etched his name into athletics and world history by being the first man to sweep Olympic gold in the men’s 100, and 200-metre sprints a n d t h e m e n ’s 4 x 1 0 0 metres at three consecutive Olympics. The world-famous Jam a i c a n t r a c k s t a r, w h o many have accorded legendary status, had given notice that he would be retiring from the sport.
Impart knowledge vital for game’s...
Steve Ninvalle (right crop)
Thursday August 25, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Try to avoid any drastic decisions concerning personal legal matters. Don't allow your lover to take advantage of your good nature.
image so far, nor that his management has been forced to take legal action against any party or entity. “Litigation and enforcement measures in general are always a last resort. Voluntary compliance and respect for law is preferred. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” Walker advised. Bolt in the just-concluded 2016 Rio Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro,
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Groups and organizations that indulge in social events to raise money will be conducive to meeting new and exciting lovers. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 Nov. 22) If your lover tries to curtail your freedom, it may lead to conflict. Visit those less fortunate than your self; be sure to help them with their personal problems. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You can raise your standard of living if you pick up some freelance work on the side. Avoid being overly opinionated or you will alienate friends. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Rely on yourself and you will look good to superiors. Spend some quality time with the one you love. Your talents will shine at work. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 Feb. 19) Difficulties with your mate may lead to isolation. You could be misinterpreted if you're not careful. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You'll be able to discuss your ambitions with your mate. Children may be difficult to deal with. Don't get involved in uncertain financial ventures.
From page 28 activities because prior to his development there were others who would have done the same to relay information from one generation to another for the game’s survival. His delivery on fast bowling included how to bowl in-swinging and outswinging deliveries, how to bowl to aggressive batsmen, bowling up front and at the depth of an innings, slower balls without much change in the action, his approach to a limited overs game as compare to three or four day games among other things that makes him the fine bowler he is today. Wintz was second in a chain of established cricketers to lecture to the youngsters following his Warriors’ colleague Assad Fudadin. Prior to the interaction, the first half of the day saw the participants going through various drills to improve their technical aspect of their games.
Yesterday ended the third day of the two-week long camp. The aims of the programme are: to provide a variety of fun and enjoyable activities while teaching the basic skills of the game; to develop hand eye coordination, sharpen reflexes, agility and flexibility, balance and speed; to teach the rules
of the game by step-by-step instructions; to develop life skills, such as self-confidence and self-discipline; to build and improve skills and athletic capabilities. The event will run up to September 2. For more information contact 225-6509 or call the club’s treasurer, Troy Lewis on 613-2575.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday August 25, 2016
GBTI Diamond Tennis Camp brings community together The Diamond Tennis Camp is off to a great start! Last Saturday, The Guyana Te n n i s A s s o c i a t i o n ( G LTA ) i n collaboration with sponsor, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), began its free tennis holiday camp for both children and adults at the GBTI Tennis Courts located opposite the Diamond Hospital. The camp had one of the largest numbers since its beginning, with persons y o u n g a n d o l d f r om all walks of life. There was a great atmosphere of light moments mixed with some hard work. The sessions were absolutely free to the public and were held daily from 15:00hrs to 18:00hrs and will progress for another two consecutive weekends. There is greater push to encourage communities to be active and build that closeness around the sport.
Diamond Tennis camp – Participants of the GBTI Diamond Tennis Camp take time out for a photo at the opening of the event. President Jamal Goodluck at the opening c e r e m o n y expressed the joy he felt at the gathering of over 50
persons. He thanked the bank who was represented by the Manager, Surendra Samdass for their many years of continuing the tradition and providing an opportunity for children to discover their abilities. As he noted, “You never know where the next Serena or Nadal will come from.” Attendees need not know to play tennis, since there are competent coaches that engage children and adults in the basics of the game and provide fun activities that
give a good physical workout. The most anticipated activity, the mini competitions, provided the public with an opportunity to put their skills to the test as they simultaneously have fun in the competitions of playing against each other. There
will be a competition at the end of the camp which seeks to involve beginners and provide a space for the community to interact. The Guyana Lawn Tennis Association thanks the Guyana Bank of Trade and Industry for facilitating this programme
offered by GLTA and coach Andre Erskine. If anyone is interested in playing Te n n i s o r j o i n i n g t h e Guyana Te n n i s association, please contact guyanatennis@gmail.com or look for Guyana Lawn Te n n i s A s s o c i a t i o n o n Facebook.
Director of Sport delivers on promise to Linden - hands over Flood Lamps for MSC Ground Director of Sports, Christopher Jones came through on a promise to Linden Community when he formally handed over to the Region yesterday 15 Flood Lamps and 10 Bulbs that will be erected at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) facility to support the existing fixtures. Jones had committed to providing lights for the facility in a meeting with the MSC management, and the Boyce/Jefford Committee last month, stating that such developmental initiatives were an important facet of the work of the Ministry’s of Education Department of Sports.
The initiative was facilitated under the Ground Enhancement Project and delivered to the R e g i o n t h a t ’s n o w t h e conduit for the project. The 1000W Quad Voltage Metal Halide Flood Fixture and 1000W E40 Metal Halide Lamp Bulbs will be erected in time for this weekend Boyce & Jefford Track and Field Classic VII at the MSC facility. The Lamps and Bulbs cost $1,798,000 of a $2M grant under the project. Regional Executive Officer, Region 10, Gavin Clarke received the items yesterday on behalf of the Linden community. MSC President, Avery Trim had welcomed the collaborative
efforts that is seeing a much-improved and developed facility. “We are appreciative of these kind sentiments, and we will continue to work to get this venue up to the level that we know it to be,” Trim had said. He said that MSC is upbeat about sports within the community and it is only fair that they have a proper facility. The facility was a hive of activity yesterday with works ongoing on repainting the stands, along with several other corrective and renovation works. The outlook of the ground was fully grassed and flat with just the marking and final rolling to be done.
Georgetown Franchise players are asked to assemble at DCC today Members of the Georgetown team slated to participate in the three-day Jaguars Franchise League which starts tomorrow are asked to assemble at the Demerara Cricket Club at 16:00hrs today for a practice session.
Georgetown will open their campaign against East Bank at Everest. The players are; Leon Johnson, Christopher Barnwell, Robin Bacchus, Andrew Lyght jr, S u n i l S i n g h , Kwame Crosse, Ron Alimohamed, Kellon
Carmichael, Dexter Solomon, Devon Lord, Andre Stoll, Guyanan Suknanan, Quincy Ovid Richardson and Jahron Byron. The players a r e a l s o required to be the Everest Cricket Club for 08:00hrs tomorrow.
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Rising Sun Turf Club President Cup Horserace meet set for Sunday Over $7.5M up for grabs
A number of leading racehorses have taken entry, while a number of major companies are on board for the second edition for the real President Cup Horserace meet set for this Sunday at the Rising Sun Turf Club, Arima Park West Coast Berbice. With entries expected to close yesterday, over 60 of the country’s top racehorses had taken entry for the meet organized by the Rising Sun Turf Club in collaboration with Friends of Rising Sun. The event is also being held as a continuation of Guyana’s 50 Anniversary Golden Jubilee Celebrations. Eight races are on the cards with over $7.5M in incentives up for the takings including cash and trophies. Among the companies on board so far are Beverage giants Banks DIH Limited, Inshan Bacchus Hard Running Tucking Service and Racing Stable, Jumbo Jet Racing stable, Trophy Stall Bourda Market and Chester Fry Chicken among others. Horses such as Princess She not, Jack in My Style, Spit Fire, Just call me Boss,
Regal Sports T20 softball set for September Regal Sports will be hosting its inaugural T20 softball tournament starting in September in Georgetown. The tournament will be played on a round robin basis in the o p e n a n d o v e r - 4 5 categories with no entrance fee required. Teams are asked to submit a list of not more than 15 members, while players participating in the over-45 division must be born before 1972 to be eligible, and only the first eight teams that are registered in this category will be accepted. The winning teams in both categories
Cat Messiah will be looking for another stunning performance. Lady Budapest and Because I Say So, Red and Lovely and Goodwill Boy are expected to take to the starting gates in the feature A and lower 1400M event for an encouraging $1.2 M and the President’s Cup. The E and Lower 1400M event is expected to have Release the Beast, Brace Sky, Because I Say So, Plum Plum, Perfect Wind Storm, Precise Gold, Good Will Boy, Right To Rule, Mass Media, Red and Lovely, Mansoon and California Strike competing for the winning pocket of $600,000 and trophy. Keep on Swinging, Red Rocket, Cat Messiah, It’s My Choice are among the horses entered for the 1400M event for G and lower horses for a winning prize of $400,000 and trophy. Cat Messiah will be looking for another win when it competes among the H and lower horses over 1400M, but will have to get past the likes of It’s My Turn, Isn’t She Charming, Miss Lova, Lova, Quiet Dancer, Bridal Stone Corner, Midnight Blues, Amazing Run, Sweet Return
and Super Bowl for the $300,000 first prize and trophy. The two year old event is for Guyana Bred horses over 1100M for a winning pocketing $280,000 and trophy. A competitive field is expected to take to the track in the race for animals classified ‘J’ and lower for the $260,000 winners money and trophy over 1100 M. Horses running in the K and Lower 1100M even will battle for a top prize of $240,000 and trophy. The K and lower 1100M event will see the winner taking home $220,000 and trophy. The final event is for horses classified L and lower with a winner’s money of $180,000 and trophy also over 1100M. Top jockeys, runner up, stable and trainer will be presented with incentives compliments of Ramesh Sunich of the Trophy Stall and the organizers. Interested persons can contact Fazal Habibulla on Telephone No 232-0232 or 657-7010. Race time is 12:00hrs. (Samuel Whyte)
Olympic flag arrives in Tokyo, governor calls for unity (Reuters) Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike brought the Olympic flag to Japan from Brazil on Wednesday and called for all parties to work together to host a successful Summer Games in 2020. Koike, who was elected last month after two predecessors stepped down over scandals that clouded the city’s Games preparations, was given the flag at the Rio Games closing ceremony on Sunday. “Let’s work together with everyone to hold a great Olympics and Paralymics as the Olympic flag, which just arrived, is a symbol of,” she told reporters after waving the flag upon stepping off the flight at
Haneda airport. The Tokyo Games have been hit by series of issues including the scrapping of plans for the main stadium, which lead to delays in construction, and plagiarism allegations which forced organizers to ditch the original logo for the Games. Koike was joined on the flight by Japanese athletes who took part in the Rio de Janeiro Games, where Japan won 12 gold medals - their best tally since 2004 - and a record 41 overall. Keisuke Ushiro, who took part in the decathlon in Brazil, followed Koike off the plane waving a Japanese Olympic Committee flag.
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will take home a trophy and $100,000 and the runner up a trophy and $25,000 while the man-of-the-match in the finals will receive a trophy. Teams will be required to pay the umpire fees and provide their balls (white big ball). Regal Sports is a subsidiary of Regal Stationery and Computer Centre of 69 Seaforth Street, Campbellville and for m o r e i n formation teams can contact Mahendra Hardyal or Russell Jadbeer on 2254802 or 226-4205.
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Banks DIH Tapeball set for August 28 in Wakenaam Banks DIH in collaboration with Virgin Promotions will be hosting an inter village Tapeball competition on August 28 at Belle Plaine tarmac in Wakenaam under lights.
Entrance fee is $8,000 and the first eight teams will be accepted with the winning side receiving a trophy and $70,000 and the runner up a trophy and $30,000. Admission is $300 for
adults while children will be allowed to enter free. There will also be added attractions for fans including Trampoline and bouncy Castles among others.
CONFL
Thursday August 25, 2016
The 1995 Lorenzo Withrite led U-20 Team was the First to Play on American Territory According to Statistician Charwayne Walker, It was mentioned that the 2016 National Under-15 team presently participating at the Central American Basketball Under-15 Tournament in Puerto Rico is the first Youth team representing Guyana to play on United States territory. For the record, Guyana under the captaincy of Lorenzo Withrite proudly participated at the International Scouting
Services Youth Championship in Atlanta Georgia in July 1995. Guyana’s youths were invited by Mr. Dale Mock, an international basketball scout who witnessed Guyana National Under-19 team placing third at the Inaugural Junior Caricom Championship in the Cayman Islands in July 1995. Historic National Junior Team: Lorenzo Withrite –Captain Orin Mohan –Vice Captain
Marvin Franklyn Wesley Stephens Warren Butts Yomi Bailey Marcom Parris Alwyn Wilson Dwayne Dejesus Bruce Davis Sherwin Rawlins NkossiGurrick – Gurrick at 16 was the baby of the team The late Phillip George was the Head Coach Bernard Daniels – Assistant Coach Michael Prince –Manager
Impart knowledge vital for game’s survival - Paul Wintz at MSC camp The Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) cricket camp continued yesterday with Guyana Amazon Warriors fast bowling all-rounder Paul Wintz engaging the participants on social development and the art of fast bowling. While Wintz urged the youths to remain committed to the game, he urged them to secure their social growth, especially their education. He also spoke about his career which started when he was just 13 and continues to flourish. “I was raised in a single parent family (I lived with my mother and sister), my
mother instilled the importance of education but I obviously loved cricket and I had to balance the two. I was also part of several camps, initially I was a wicketkeeper but due to playing several tape-ball matches I picked up fast bowling, since then it has been about elevation. Coincidentally like you youngsters here, Mark Harper (the head facilitator of the camp) was also my coach when I first represented Guyana. He taught me a great deal about cricket and life.” Wintz feels it is important to be involved in such (Continued on page 25)
Paul Wintz
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Bolt’s management moves to clamp down on illegal use of his images (Jamaica Observer) THE managing company for triple Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt has moved to ward off any unauthorised use or misuse of the trademarks and images of the w o r l d ’s f a s t e s t m a n , cautioning perpetrators that they could face legal action. “It has come to our attention that in violation of Usain Bolt’s intellectual property rights, persons are using his trademarks and
Global superstar Usain Bolt (right) and manager Nugent Walker at the Jamaica Olympic team’s training base in Brazil earlier this month. (Bryan Cummings)
James’ former coach wants him to review... From page 31 regional television show Big Bang Sports, Joseph said the 23 year old quarter miler has been consistent but now needs to improve his times to compete with Niekerk. “I am sure he would have to go back to the drawing board and do something different with his training because being consistent he has been running 47.7 since 2014, 2014 was 43.74, 2015 was 43.78, this year is 43.76, so he is very consistent with the 43.7s.,” said Joseph who also coached Trinidad and Tobago 400 metre runner Machel Cedenio. “Now you have a guy that is running 43.1 or almost 42 in order to compete with him you have to get out of that comfort zone of running 43.7 and start thinking about improving because in three years time he (Kirani) has not really
improved on his time”. In the 400 metres finals, James, defending the Olympic title he won in London in 2012 was leading off the final turn but ran out of steam as Niekerk stunned the athletics world. Joseph, who also hails from James’ hometown on the west coast of Grenada, says he is confident his countryman can produce better times on a revamped training method. “He is very consistent but he needs to get down to the 43.5, 43.4 around that range in order to be competitive with Niekerk when Niekerk is at his best,” said Joseph. “I think Kirani has the ability to run 42 but it depends on the type of training”. James is currently being coached by former American track athlete Harvey Glance.
image in the advertising of their products and services and otherwise in the course of trade, without proper authorisation. Such activities are resulting in loss and damage to Usain Bolt’s reputation and business,” Bolt’s UB Management Limited said in a statement published in the Jamaica Observer last Friday. Bolt’s manager Nugent Walker later explained to the Observer that the notice was
proactive “and simply a reminder that there are IP rights. We are particularly concerned that persons be aware that the rights exist”. “Unauthorised representatives by way of even a congratulatory message to Usain on winning gold can be inferred as endorsements by him, thus the notice to public,” Walker said, adding that infringements are likely, given the extent of Bolt’s
fame. “ U s a i n ’s i m a g e i s registered globally with a strong IP team to move q u i c k l y o n a n y infringement,” he pointed out. UB Management pointed out that Bolt’s trademarks have acquired significant goodwill and reputation, and that the public must be cognisant that any use of his image or trademarks “amounts to an (Continued on page 25)
Kaieteur News
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Thursday August 25, 2016
Caribbean Badminton Team Championships 2016 – Aruba
Guyana claim silver in overall team championships Battled Dominican Republic, Aruba, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname & Barbados
Guyana silver medal winning Badminton team at the Caribbean Under19 event in Aruba.
T h e G u y a n a Badminton Team c o n s i s t i n g o f SUNBURST Narayan Ramdhani, Jonathan Mangra, Priyanna Ramdhani & Ambika Ramraj claimed the silver medal at the Caribbean Badminton Te a m C h a m p i o n s h i ps 2016 at the Centro Deportivo Sports Hall in Aruba. Guyana Team beat Suriname 3-2 in the Semi-Finals Tuesday evening with Jonathan Mangra winning the Singles, Narayan Ramdhani & Jonathan Mangra winning the Doubles and the deciding match was Narayan Ramdhani & Priyanna Ramdhani winning the Mix Doubles to take Guyana to the FINALS. In the Team Championships play is contested in the Boys & Girls Singles, Boys & Girls Doubles & Mix Doubles to get 5 points. To win teams must win three of the Matches to gain 3 points. The Team Captain (Narayan Ramdhani) usually set the players in an order he sees best to win against the opponent by placing his players in the right events
with the better combination. They went down to Dominican Republic 2-3 in the final to earn silver. The won the boys and girls doubles events but lost in the singles and mixed doubles. Guyana topped Group B by beating Barbados and Aruba, while Group A, Dominican Republic won against Trinidad & Tobago & Suriname. In the results: Guyana defeated Suriname 3-2 in the semi-finals BOYS SINGLES: Jonathan Mangra defeated Denny Chen: 21-15, 21-16 GIRLS SINGLES: Priyanna Ramdhani lost to Shemara Lindveld: 2111, 21-19 BOYS DOUBLES: Narayan Ramdhani & Jonathan Mangra defeated Jascha Atmodikromo & Denny Chen:21-9, 21-17 MIX DOUBLES: Narayan Ramdhani & Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Jascha Atmodikromo & Imani Mangroe: 21-7, 21-4
Guyana lost in an exciting final to Dominican Republic 3-2 BOYS SINGLES: Narayan Ramdhani lost to Cesar Brito: 11-21, 15-21 GIRLS SINGLES: Ambika Ramraj lost to Nairobi Jimenez: 4-21, 6-21 BOYS DOUBLES: Narayan Ramdhani & Jonathan Mangra defeated Wilmer Brea & Bryan Castro: 21-16, 219 GIRLS DOUBLES: Priyanna Ramdhani & Ambika Ramraj defeated Carmen Garcia & Francesca Matias: 21-9, 21-7 MIX DOUBLES: Jonathan Mangra & Priyanna Ramdhani lost to Argenis Marinez & Nairobi Jimenez. The Guyana Players are now competing in the CAREBACO Regional Championships open to only Caribbean member countries. This is the third part of the CAREBACO events which began yesterday.
Guyana win U-13 Boys’, Girls’ silver in Caribbean Pre-Cadet TT C/ships - U-11 Girls win bronze
Niron Bissu
Kaysan Ninvalle
Nevaeh Clarkston
The final points standing in the Boys’ Under-13 competition at the Caribbean Pre-Cadet T a b l e T e n n i s Championship that is currently being played at the National Indoor Sports Centre (NISC) in Jamaica places Guyana with three medals. Trinidad and Tobago won the U-13 title with eight points, with Guyana second on seven points, Jamaica ‘A’ third on with six;
Barbados was on four points with Jamaica ‘B’ team. Guyana Boys team comprised Isaiah Layne, Kaysan Ninvalle and Niron Bissu. In the Girls’ Under-13, Trinidad and Tobago won with four points, followed by Guyana on three, and Jamaica with two points. In the Boys’ Under-11 team event, Trinidad and Tobago won with eight points, ahead of Jamaica ‘A’ on seven, Guyana
with six, Jamaica ‘B’ on four, and Barbados also with four points. In the Girls’ U n d e r- 11 t e a m e v e n t , Trinidad and Tobago won with four points, ahead of Jamaica ‘A’ on three, and Jamaica ‘B’ with two points. Ninvalle and Niron Bissu have reached the semi-final of the Boys Under-13 Doubles. Ninvalle and Nevaeh Clarkston have also reached the Mixed Doubles semi-final.
Thursday August 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
PAGE 35
Essequibo Volleyball Association aims at streamlining an Essequibo team On Tuesday, executives of the Essequibo Volleyball Association, along with young volleyball enthusiasts from Capoey Mission, Mainstay, Waramuri, a community in Region One and Bartica participated in a series of practice sessions to form an Essequibo volleyball team who in the future would represent Region Two (Pomeroon /Supenaam). President of the Essequibo Volleyball, Imran Baskh, said the practice sessions involving youths from across the Region, Bartica and the Pomeroon was to choose good and effective players who would eventually lead to the formation of a single Essequibo team who would represent Region Two in future in competitive competitions. Baksh said that once the formation of the Essequibo volleyball t e a m h a s b e e n accomplished, the new team would be ready to compete
Some of the Essequibo youngsters take part in training sessions there recently.
with a team from Demerara and Berbice on the 3rd, of September. Baksh is also
calling on business entities to reach out in the form of sponsorship to enhance the
growth of his young group. The Essequibo Volleyball Association was established
GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Nat. U-17 League
Topp XX hammer Amelia’s Ward
on the 21st, of March2016. Baksh remains the president of the Association while, Ms.
Joylyn Ragubeer was named as the Vice president and Andrew Carter the coach.
James’ former coach wants him to review training method
Kirani James
Topp XX scorers from right, Emanuel Atkins, Kurliegh Hooper, Andre Myers and Carlon Hinds.
Taking on the mantle of leadership from the front, Topp XX’s Captain Emanuel Atkins blasted a hat-trick to lead his side to a thumping 6-0 win over Amelia’s Ward Panthers when play in the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA) leg of the GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power National Under-17 league continued at the Wisburg
School ground. Atkins was in dismissive form in leading his side and was ably supported by three of his colleagues who added more spark to Topp XX’s offensive ambitions. Kurliegh Hooper, Andre Myers and Carlon Hinds all netted a goal each to complete their side’s demolition of Amelia’s Ward.
S T. G E O R G E ’ S , Grenada, CMC - Grenadian track and field coach Albert Joseph who discovered Kirani James a decade and a half ago says the Olympic silver medalist must embark on a comprehensive review of his training method after he was upstaged by South African Wayde van Niekerk. James failed in his bid to repeat as men’s 400 metres champion at the recently
concluded Olympic Games in Brazil, losing to Niekerk who won in style by smashing American Michael Johnson’s 17-year-old World record. While James trailed Niekerk with a season- best 43.76, the South African clocked an amazing 43.03 seconds to shatter Johnson’s old time of 43.18. In an interview on the (Continued on page 29)
t r o Sp
Director of Sport delivers on promise to Linden - hands over Flood Lamps for MSC Ground
GOOD TO GO! Director of Sport, Christopher Jones (right) and Chairman of the Boyce/Jefford Committee, Colin Boyce inspectthe upgraded MSC Ground yesterday ahead of this weekend’s Boyce/Jefford Track and Field Classic VII.
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ILLUMINATION! Director of Sport, Christopher Jones (left) hands over one of 15 Flood Lamps that will be erected at the MSC Ground to Regional ExecutiveOfficer, Region 10, Gavin Clarke yesterday while in background, from left, Colin Boyce, MSC President, Avery rim and Edison Jefford share the moment in Linden.
Olympic flag arrives in Tokyo, governor calls for unity P.31
Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike (4th R), Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) President Takeda Tsunekazu (3rd R) and other officials pose with the Olympic flag (R) and JOC flag during a ceremony to mark the arrival of the Olympic flag at Haneda airport in Tokyo, Japan, August 24, 2016. (REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon) Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210