Friday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 5
Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
An apology is owed to Rudisa DEAR EDITOR, In regards to the Rudisa issue, I tried refraining myself from becoming involved even after The Commissioner General (CG) of the GRA (retired?) had made some thoughtless comments back in May of 2014 on this matter. Now Mr. Nadir has become an advocate of boycotting the company’s products and there are ads in the newspapers calling for the same based on Mr. Nadir’s position. In my opinion, this issue has different elements relating to legal, accounting and tax issues and have to be looked at separately. Both the CG and Mr. Nadir have been guilty of comingling them to arrive at some rather emotional solutions. Firstly, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) had ruled that the money should be paid to the company and Mr. Nadir has agreed that countries that have signed on to the CCJ have to abide by its rulings. Therefore, I am quite surprise that Mr. Nadir, being a former Minister of Trade and Tourism is so casually calling for the Government not to pay, and for consumers to boycott the company’s products. These are quite irresponsible statements coming from the former leader of The United Force, a party that supported investments and a free market economy. Secondly, the CCJ had stated that Guyana would not have had to repay the tax if there was evidence to show that it was passed on to the consumer or a third party. No such evidence was provided. Also, the Court concluded that the documentary evidence, as well as the testimony of the Claimants’ witnesses demonstrated that the
tax was absorbed by the company to maintain its competitive edge in the Guyana market. So what is Mr. Nadir missing? The CCJ’s decision was based on facts and evidence. Also, Guyana was represented by former AG Anil Nandlall. The company would have produced its audited financial statements to support its arguments. Yet, Mr. Nadir is asking the “the Court of Public Opinion” to make up its own mind while stating that that anyone in business would know that Rudisa/CIDI had to pass the tax on. I think most people in business will not agree with that position. Finally, the tax issues. The CCJ strictly dealt with the Environmental Tax. It did not cover corporation tax and VAT. Mr. Nadir has erroneously mixed the effect of these different taxes to support his conclusion. Maybe, we should look at what the former CG, Mr. Sattaur had to say about this matter, and to ask what action was or was not taken before to address some of the tax concerns raised by Mr. Nadir. In May 12, 2014, one of the newspapers carried an article with the heading “absolutely no funds in our estimate to provide for this payment-Tax Chief.” In my opinion, in this article, Mr. Sattaur made some rather unprofessional remarks unworthy of his high office. Was he reprimanded by his Minister or the Board? I doubt it. In the article Mr. Sattaur said “ another way of looking at it too is, suppose the company argues that it reduced its profit margin by having to absorb the tax to stay competitive. Then this refund of the tax will be tantamount to an earnings of profit and I will have to re-examine its corpo-
How Much to Pay?
rate tax liability and probably its VAT liability as the spinoff issues pertaining to the payment of the refund.” Mr. Sattaur also made some bizarre statements about the consumers being overcharged, the staging of a massive countrywide boycott of the product and the company putting in place a mechanism to repay the amount. Mr. Nadir is asking for the government to take certain tax action. Mr. Sattaur had promised since May of 2014 to re-examine the company’s corporate tax and VAT liabilities. Note that he used the word re-examine. So what has the GRA done? It should be confidential. I have always maintained that tax compliance is not strengthened by noise-making and wild statements, but by professional people who understand tax and accounting principles and concepts and who have respect for the law, taxpayers’ rights and the confidentiality of taxpayers’ information. Somebody should be apologizing soon to Rudisa/ CIDI. Dhanraj Deonarine Toronto, Canada
DEAR EDITOR, There have been a considerable number of views offered about increases in pay to both parliamentarians and public servants, at this juncture. First of all, anyone who has carefully studied the related salaries (and allowances) will quickly recognise that there are substantive gaps in relativities.In the case of non-Ministerial Parliamentarians, they are poorly paid when one takes into account the level and types of decision-making in which they are perpetually involved, particularly at this rehabilitative juncture. There are Permanent Secretaries who earn superior pay to those who direct them. Strangely also there is no recognition in financial terms allocated to ‘Shadow Ministers’, a palpable lapse in any compensation regime.One other such regime is that which applies to traditional public officers as listed in the National Budget. A careful perusal will show the lowly range of positions which are better paid than ordinary MPs. One very derisible example is the Administrator of
From page 4 To help me to understand the mind of Joshua during those five tumultuous years he spent at GPHC, I have turned to a book called, “Ghost Boy,” to help me to understand Joshua’s medical condition better. The book is a story about young man who fell into a coma. Editor, Joshua spent the remaining five years of his life lying motionless on the floor or slumped in a troller with a strap holding him upright. His
body, was like a prison that he couldn’t escape, when he will his arm to move, it stays still. And just days before he died, he was given his first wheelchair but never got to sit in it because it came too late. Joshua’s life and death had a profound impact on me. Learning about him being abandoned and subsequently dying challenges me to be able to do more for the orphans in our community. Anthony Pantlitz
No relatives at Joshua’s funeral...
the Palms. And of course there is a host of other revealing positions such as a Medex who is valued at better rates. So that when persons talk glibly about MPs remuneration they must take into account the level of decisionmaking in which the respective parties are involved. And that since Permanent Secretaries at the higher level of salary Grade 14 can earn more than MPs, there needs to be some caution about how anyone pontificates about pay rises in a public service which includes up to five compensation regimes. Of the latter there is what is jocundly described as that which is grounded in the ‘theory of relativity’ profusely practised by the previous administration, who translated the expression to mean ‘taking care of relatives and friends’. This category made up the bulk of the group of ‘contracted employees’, the number of which increased exponentially on an annual basis. In this instance different Ministries were free to pay differing values for the same job as say, an Accountant. It is this very ‘contracted employee’ who was generously awarded gratuity every six months at the rate of 22.5% of monthly salary. You can elucidate from this formula above. But the other type of contracted employee was the one employed in donor-funded projects whose generous remuneration is tax-free. So arrangements are continuously made to transfer this employee to another donorfunded project. Very briefly the next type includes those on annual contract but who are required to apply for renewal at least three months prior to close of contract. So no reply simply meant that employment was
terminated. It is no coincidence that this condition applied to Cleaner (Gd 1) and Office Assistant (Gd 2). But perhaps the greatest travesty was perpetuated by the Regional Administrations, all of which were headed by a Regional Executive Offer – a position never listed in the National Budget. It would be in the new Administration’s interest to examine closely the authority of the incumbent of a position that has a wider sweep than a Permanent Secretary, unlike whom his responsibility spreads across Finance, Administration, Agriculture, Public Works, Education, Health, with little indication of qualification criteria, the degree of responsibility and accountability in a very fragile local government structure. The REO too is free to employ ‘contract employees’. So those who express concern about pay increases may not be quite aware how legitimate is their frustration. But it bears no match to mine when it comes to the degrading treatment of teachers, and consequently the beggarly state of our public education system. The special requirements of the Education System must easily be the most anachronistic of any comparable public sector ladder of qualification in Guyana and elsewhere. For example the duty requirements of SSPE and of CXC respectively earn a salary grade each less than is achievable by a maid/ cleaner at the upper end of the scale in the Public Service. To make a long story short the Teaching Service has an actual compensation structure of twenty nine salary grades compressed into its structure, where the highest level is actually a fixed (Continued on page 23)
Page 6
Kaieteur News
Captured NA prison escapee appears in court, other still on the run Recaptured escapee Ravindra Samaroo who had escaped from the New Amsterdam prison on Wednesday evening has been remanded to jail. Samaroo, 23, and fellow inmate Lennox Patterson, 26, had escaped around 20:20 hrs from the cells they were in before scaling the 12-ft fence and making their dash for freedom. Samaroo was recaptured on Thursday evening in a bushy area not too far from where they had escaped. He appeared yesterday before Magistrate Mauricia Mittelholzer in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s court on a charge of escaping from lawful custody. He was not required to plea and was remanded to jail until August 31st when the matter is expected to continue. Following the breakout, authorities were on high alert and had cordoned off all exit points in the county. The two prisoners were seen together in the bushy area and officials moved in and were able to capture Samaroo while Patterson escaped. On the night of the escape the two prisoners were occupying adjoining cells 38 and 39 which had three prisoners each. At the time the other inmates were reportedly sleeping. The men reportedly knocked out a single 7-ft. board from the wooden walls. They then squeezed their way out of their cells and using about three bed sheets they climbed down the prison
Ravindra Samaroo walls. The men managed to scale the facility’s high zinc fence, which has barbed wire on top. In the meantime, persons are blaming the men’s escape on the state of the prison. The facilities are old and dilapidated and not suitable to hold dangerous inmates. Both men are regulars and have been in and out of prison on various charges. Samaroo was on remand for an alleged armed robbery committed on Triple S Taxi Service in New Amsterdam. Patterson was recently charged with possession of arms and ammunition and armed robbery committed on A. Ali and Son Supermarket in New Amsterdam. He was found with a gun and live rounds after that incident. The hunt continues for Patterson and the authorities are asking anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Patterson to contact them on telephone numbers 225-8196, 225-6411, 333-2191, 333-2151, 911 or the nearest police station.
As road deaths climb... As deaths on the roadways of Guyana continue to rise, police statistics have shown that July has recorded the highest number of road accidents for the year. According to statistics presented by the GPF, there were 58 fatal accidents from January to the end of July. During that period, 71 persons were killed on Guyana’s roadways. These statistics represented a decline from last year’s statistics for the same period. Then, there were 61 accidents, marking a decline of 5 percent in 2015. However, there was an increase in the number of deaths from 2014; last year, there were 67 deaths and this year saw an increase of 6 percent. Deaths of children also saw an increase of 22 percent, moving from 9 deaths for the same period in 2014 to 11 deaths this year. In terms of the month with the most accidents, July copped the top spot. At the end of July, the police say that there were 12 recorded accidents. The second most accident-prone month was recorded as May with 11 fatal accidents. However, while July recorded the most accidents for the year thus far it was not the bloodiest month with its recorded 13 deaths from 12 accidents. Rather, the bloodiest months were May, which recorded 14 deaths from 11 accidents, and February, which saw 14 deaths from 7 accidents. Meanwhile, speeding and inattentiveness continue to
Friday August 15, 2015
July sees highest number of accidents for year
Dead: Latoya Thompson
Dead: Bhidesh Mohabir
Dead: Rupesh Jadoo
be the leading causes of road deaths. From January to July, the police say that 29 deaths were as a result of speeding while 18 were caused by inattentiveness. Furthermore, driving under the influence of alcohol accounted for 10 deaths while failure to conform to road signs resulted in one death. Additionally, the newest statistics show that pedestrians are killed nearly twice more than any other road user. At the end of July, 25 pedestrians were killed. The second most affected group was passengers in cars, which saw 14 persons being killed. Other affected groups include motorcyclists, drivers and pedal cyclists which saw 10, 9 and 6 deaths respectively. Furthermore, reports indicate that Divisions ‘A’ (Georgetown/East Bank) and ‘C’ (East Coast of Demerara) continue to see jumps in their
numbers of accidents and deaths while the other divisions remain relatively unchanged. At the end of June 2015, police statistics showed that ‘A’ Division recorded 17 deaths from 17 accidents while ‘C’ Division saw 16 deaths from 10 accidents. ‘B’ Division (Berbice) came in third with 15 deaths from 11 accidents. However, while other divisions recorded an increase of 2 deaths, at most, Divisions ‘A’ and ‘B’ saw bigger increases. At the end of July, police statistics showed that ‘A’ Division recorded 22 deaths from 22 accidents while ‘C’ Division recorded 21 deaths from 15 accidents. While for ‘A’ Division its current stats represent a decrease in both accidents and deaths from last year, the same was not for the East Coast. Last year, Georgetown/ East Bank saw 28 deaths from 26 accidents for the same period. The East Coast had recorded 8 deaths from 8
accidents. When it comes to August 2015, things are already looking bleak in regards to Guyana’s roadways. On Wednesday evening, Latoya Thompson was killed during an accident on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD). Thompson, of Craig Village, EBD was the pillion rider of a motorcycle which collided with a white wagon that failed to stop at the traffic light at Eccles, EBD. Her friend, Orwin Whittington, 35 was the rider and was admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital. Furthermore, two teenage cousins lost their lives in the wee hours of Thursday after the vehicle they were travelling in crashed and destroyed a bus shed on the Sparta Public Road. Rupesh Jadoo, 19, of Reliance, Essequibo Coast, died on the spot while his younger cousin, 13-year-old Bhidesh Mohabeer, of Sparta, Essequibo Coast, succumbed while at the Suddie Public Hospital.
Friday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Antigua calls for Cuba to take its OAS seat WASHINGTON, (CMC) – Antigua and Barbuda yesterday called for Cuba to “take its rightful seat “in the Councils of the Organisation of American States (OAS) saying it would encourage Havana to do so. “Cuba must not now isolate itself from this body of which it is a founding member. My government calls on the Cuban government to take its rightful seat in the Council of the OAS,” said Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the OAS Sir Ronald Sanders. In his inaugural statement to a fully-attended OAS Permanent Council, Sir Ronald said the Gaston Browne government “looks forward to the universality of hemispheric representation in this body by the return of Cuba to our
Sir Ronald Sanders councils”. He told the meeting that that was also attended by the ambassadors of the United States, Canada and all Latin American and Caribbean countries that he is “proud that, apart from Canada and Mexico, the countries of the
Caribbean were the first to end the isolation of Cuba in this Hemisphere in 1972. “While it took 42 years since 1972 ‘to cut loose the anchor of failed policies of the past’, today Cuba enjoys diplomatic relations with every member state of this Organisation,” he said. Sir Ronald’s statement coincided with the ceremony in Havana attended by US Secretary of State John Kerry in which Washington reopened its embassy there after 54 years. Cuba was suspended from the OAS in 1962 largely at the initiative of the US government that was pursuing a policy of isolating the Caribbean island.In June 2009, the OAS lifted the ban on Cuba but, so far, Cuba has not acted to re-join the Organisation.
Attorney General in T&T wants investigation into Rowley’s claim of plot to kill him PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Attorney General Garvin Nicolas has given Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley until Friday to provide information regarding allegations that the coalition People’s Partnership government had hired “their friends” to assassinate him. Rowley, speaking at a public meeting of his People’s National Moment (PNM) in Tobago last weekend, accused the government of wanting him dead. “First time in Trinidad and Tobago, the Opposition Leader is under attack from the Government. And when I’m not under attack from their friends who they hire to kill me, I’m under attack from their friends who they hire to lie about me.” Rowley told supporters that a few months ago he had informed people in the country that for the first time “in my 30 years (in public office) I feared for my personal safety”. But in a letter dated August 13, Nicholas said he regarded the statement by Rowley as “a serious accusation which expressly and/or imply means that the Government has hired “their friends” to murder you. “As the guardian of the public interest and a member of the Government, I feel compelled to seek further and better particulars about your outrageous and scandalous open-ended allegation,” Nicholas wrote, noting that “where however false and baseless allegations are
Garvin Nicolas
Dr Keith Rowley
made…no effort shall be spared to vindicate the good name and reputation” of the members of the government. Nicholas, a candidate for the United National Congress (UNC) led coalition People’s Partnership in the September 7 general election here, said Rowley, who is seeking to become prime minister was “highly irresponsible” in making the unsubstantiated allegations. Nicholas said he was “anxiously” awaiting the evidence and justification for Rowley’s statement, adding should I fail to hear from you within 48 hours, I shall assume that your statements were false and baseless and proceed to call upon the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Commissioner of Police to launch an immediate criminal investigation into your conduct”.Nicholas said he was also calling upon the Integrity Commission to probe the allegation in keeping with the Integrity in Public Life
Act. Earlier this week, National Security Minister Carl Alfonso, who had indicated he was unaware of the plot to assassinate the Opposition leader, said he had now been “officially informed’ by the police. He said he had been “officially” informed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Glen Hackett and expressed concern at the alleged threat coming during a heated election campaign. “We must all be concerned as to what is developing in our politics,” he said. PNM public relations officer Faris Al Rawi, said he was astonished at the government’s “cavalier” response to the allegation and accused Communication Minister Vasant Bharath of politicising the matter.He said the threat assessment was made by the police and that Rowley had nothing to do about beefing up security around him.
Page 7
Page 8
Kaieteur News
Friday August 15, 2015
Russia steps up demand for U.S. to drop European missile shield MOSCOW (Reuters) Russia urged the United States yesterday to scrap plans to station parts of a missile shield system in Europe now that Iran has reached an agreement with world powers to limit its nuclear program. Moscow has long opposed the plan, which it sees as a threat to its nuclear deterrence, and vowed to retaliate if it goes ahead. Washington has previously assured
Moscow the shield was meant as protection from “rogue” states like Iran, and not directed against Russia. Since the July agreement under which Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in exchange for an easing of U.N., U.S. and European Union sanctions, Moscow has stepped up its rhetoric against the missile shield. “We don’t see any reason to continue with the program,
let alone at such an accelerated pace and with a clear aim at the Russian nuclear potential,” Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters. The latest spat threatens to further worsen a deep chill in ties between Moscow and Washington, now at their lowest point since the Cold War because of the conflict in Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister
Sergei Lavrov last week said Barack Obama “was not telling the truth” in comments he made in 2009 linking the need for a missile shield to what the president called the “real threat” from Iranian nuclear and ballistic missile activity. At the time, Obama said: “As long as the threat from Iran persists, we will go forward with a missile defense system that is cost-effective and proven. If the Iranian threat is eliminated, we will have a stronger basis for security, and the driving force for missile defense construction in Europe will be removed.” Moscow says those comments mean that with the resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue, Washington should now walk away from the missile shield plan. But William Stevens, spokesman for the U.S. embassy in Moscow, said even if the agreement was fully implemented, it did not annul the threat from Iran’s ballistic missiles that Obama also mentioned back in 2009. Under the July deal, U.N. sanctions on Iran’s ballistic missiles program will stay in place for eight years. “As long as Iran goes on developing and deploying
Barack Obama ballistic missiles, the U.S. together with its allies and partners will be working to ensure protection from this threat, including through deploying the NATO missile shield system,” Stevens said. Ryabkov said Moscow ruled out the possibility of using mid-range ballistic missiles with non-nuclear warheads to target Europe. “So I conclude that the U.S. administration is artifi-
cially stitching arguments together behind a decision to continue and increase the pace of creating the European missile shield that was in fact taken for different reasons,” he said.If the shield goes ahead, Russia has said it would retaliate, including by deploying short-range Iskander ballistic missiles in its enclave of Kaliningrad, on the border with NATO members Poland and Lithuania.
Friday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 9
WHO LET GO OF BHARRAT? Reports in the media indicate that the most successful Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. Mr. Bharrat Dindyal was let go, another way of saying that he will not be offered a new contract of employment. This is a decision that will be debated in the days to come not just because of the excellent record of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), but also because of the manner in which it was made The reports in the media seem to indicate that this decision was endorsed by Cabinet and was made by someone outside of the Board of Directors. If this is true, then the new government needs to address the manner in which it is acting.
For the record let it be stated that there has been no investigation into the performance of the Chief Executive Officer. Neither was there any indication that the CEO did not enjoy the confidence of the new administration or the company’s Board of Directors. The dismissal of the head of the Guyana Power and Light comes amidst the playing of an audio, for which there has been no authentication, in which someone is heard uttering an expletive in what seems to be a heated exchange with another person. A statement on the dismissal of Chief Executive Officer does suggest that the dismissal was related to a host
of factors, but may have been hastened by the release of the audio tape. Now if indeed the tape is one of the reasons why the CEO was let go, something is radically wrong here, because without authentication, the tape in itself cannot be used against the person or persons whose voice(s) could be heard in the recording. The government has to be very careful about the manner in which it is operating. There are a sufficient number of trained lawyers within the government to point out that there are procedures that should be followed in either dismissing or not offering a new contract to an incumbent office holder. What was the basis of the dismissal?
Charges could soon be instituted against a senior male supervisor at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), following an alleged physical assault against a female Confidential Secretary. Kaieteur News understands that the alleged incident occurred after the hospital’s administration had changed the locks to the Director of Nursing’s office after the Matron, Sister Colleen Hicks was given the axe months ago, but still continued to occupy the office. According to reports, the aforementioned Secretary was given the instructions to lock the office doors on
Wednesday afternoon when Hicks would have left. Following the instruction of her superior, the Secretary claims that she proceeded to lock the office, and was confronted by a male supervisor. It is alleged that in a very loud tone he demanded the keys to the office so that he could retrieve his “stuff”. The Secretary alleges that she was motionless as she stood face to face with the irate Supervisor who then grabbed the keys from her hand. A complaint was lodged with the administration and the matter is being investigated. However, after consulting with her lawyer,
the woman has since made a report at the GPHC’s police outpost. The Secretary told Kaieteur News that she is feeling victimized and is saddened by the whole episode, because at the beginning of what she described as ‘drama’, she was not even on duty. It was after she had returned from leave that she found out that Hicks, who she once worked under, was terminated. “I am just hoping that this situation is resolved as soon as possible, I can’t work under these conditions,” the Secretary said. She explained that working under such stress is very unhealthy.
GPHC Secretary alleges assault by Supervisor
Dem boys seh...
Donald Dumb hide behind plant pot to sing karaoke People does only hide when dem do something bad. Criminals does hide and children who do something and dem parents vex wid dem does run and hide. If a dog thief and he know de owner gun buss he tail he does run and hide. That is why people couldn’t understand why Donald Dumb had to hide de other day. He tun up at Sleep Out fuh karaoke as he does normally do. He had a cap pull down in he face. A security man carry de mike fuh he. He tek de mike and he start sing. People couldn’t see who singing. Donald was hiding behind a plant pot, but a visitor recognize de voice. He ask he partner why Donald hiding and he partner couldn’t answer. Suh de man shout out, “Why are you hiding?” When Donald buss de second tune de visitor from England shout out again. “Why are you hiding? I didn’t know that you did something wrong.” Donald pull down he cap over he eye and push out he head like a snake out of a barrel, and sing out de song. When he done he hand de mike to de security and walk out through some back entrance.
Donald ain’t got no reason to hide. He not like Jagdeo, Luncheon and Ash Knee. De three of dem do nuff wrang thing. Dem boys remember wha dem do when Soulja Bai people announce that dem gun provide better seating fuh dem old age pensioner. When Luncheon build de $69 million NIS building pun de Corentyne he claim how it got better seating. He spend $7 million to build de roof alone. He seh that de rest went to provide seating. When dem boys check out de seat, dem see some school bench. Somebody put some mango leaf and spread a plastic over dem leaf. Dem boys know that Luncheon already collecting he old age pension and when de time come fuh Jagdeo and Ash Knee collect dem own de state intend to provide proper seating fuh dem. De seats gun have spikes. Dem boys also watching to see if dem really get a change or an exchange. Jagdeo government use seating fuh thief money. This team ain’t gun get that chance fuh thief. Dem can’t even build a toilet seat without examination. But is Donald who got people worrying. Talk half and shame on you Donald.
The fact that there may have been no existing signed contract should not be an issue, because even if there was a month-to-month arrangement, there has to be a basis for bringing such an arrangement to an end. More importantly, it is unwise for the CEO to have been sent off at a time when there was a major investigation taking place into alleged actions of another manager. The public will read their own meaning into this decision, despite there being enough cheerleaders to support the decision to let go of the CEO. It would have been better if there was a full investigation into the allegations made against the person who was at the centre of allegations before the CEO was let go. The timing of the letting go of the CEO will add currency to those who may be tempted to argue that it was because of this investigation into the actions of the staff member that the CEO was let
go. What needs to be established is just who made the decision to let the CEO go. Surely that decision can only be made by the Board of Directors. No politician has any right to make such a decision. So was the Board involved in the decision to let go of the CEO of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. And why was Cabinet advised? What role does it have in this matter? Even if it was the Board, and there is no evidence as yet about this, why was this
decision not communicated in the name of the Board? Is this the manner in which the new government expects to operate? And what about the CEO? Was he afforded a hearing? APNU+AFC promised that better would come. But from the manner in which it is doing things, the very opposite is happening.
Page 10
Kaieteur News
Friday August 15, 2015
== THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN ==
Lost civilization: A visit to the Eve Leary police head office Mr. Glenn Lall challenged me to go, see for myself and think about writing a column on the conditions I saw. On Thursday afternoon, I journeyed inside the CID offices at Eve Leary, accompanied by Dale Andrews. Before I describe the appalling interior of the CID offices, I need to remind readers that more than a decade ago I went inside the
CID offices at Brickdam, and what I saw there concretized my feelings against the PPP Government. I remember doing a Sunday column on the CID at Brickdam. There could not have been a more horrible CID office anywhere else in the world. There were conditions that were subhuman. In 2013, I was at the Brickdam station. My observations were contained in my Feb 26, 2013 column titled “Madness at the Brickdam Police Station.” Here is what I wrote: “Leonard Craig and I took a rape victim to the CID at Brickdam. The CID computer had
broken down. The statement was typed on a private laptop and a police woman went on the road to get it printed. I went into the office of the Fraud Squad… wood-ants were eating the place. The CID offices at Brickdam are without phones and not one desk has a computer. The senior officer was drinking a hot Pepsi. I asked him if there was a fridge.” (end of quote) The next year I went to Brickdam again. Again I did a column on what I saw, titled, “Desecration of modern civilization in Guyana,” May 16, 2014. I wrote the following; “We stumbled upon an empty store room full of cartons of station entry
books. The pages for several of these books were missing and dozens of pages were scattered on the floor. The books themselves were in terrible condition. A station entry book is a recording of all the transactions between the station and the public who came to the station to make a complaint or related business. Some of these books were dated as recent as 1999.” (end of quote) Here now are my observations of the CID offices at Eve Leary. My first stop was the Registry. The little makeshift door to gain entry is dirty and primitive. With all the classy wood species Guyana has, a proper, decorative door should have been there a long time ago. The Registry tells a sad story of a deeply primitive country. There isn’t the computerization of police
files. There are mountains and mountains of paper files that rival the height of Mount Everest. God help Guyana if rain causes the roof to collapse and those files are water-soaked or if there is a fire. The Crime Chief was not there, so while I was leaving I saw a dilapidated office, the door of which is made of wooden louvres with many of the panes missing, so you can hear what is being said by persons inside. It is painted in white and the paint faded as long ago as 1967 when Procol Harum sang one of history’s most famous soft rock classics, “A Whiter Shade of Pale.” As my curiosity drew me closer to this office with the name, “Firearm Investigation Unit,” a detective leant forward from his small chair across a little desk that is as tiny as what they use in nursery school and said, “you shouldn‘t have done that,” to which I replied, “done what?” He said it was off-limit and I should not have peeped inside. By this time a spark of anger stirred inside of me and I retorted by informing him that I had no apologies to make for showing curiosity towards an office that was dirty, primitive and falling apart, and located inside the
Frederick Kissoon head office of the Guyana Police Force and was being used by humans. Assistant Superintendent Michael Caesar came up to me. It was obvious he knew why I was there. He informed me that since I came to see the person who was not in office, then I should leave. The CID offices at Eve Leary are in bad condition. The place needs re-wiring and a complete overhaul. The walls are dirty; the roofs leak. The zinc sheets of the cafeteria are falling off. The rain will obviously wet the food. To think that the police could work under those conditions while Jagdeo used 60 million American dollars to build a Marriott. There is no parking space for officers’ vehicles. That space is a graveyard of rotted and rotting vehicles that have been there since the days of banned wheaten flour. That space is an embarrassment to modern civilization.
Friday August 15, 2015
Nat’l Cane Farmers’ Conference…
Kaieteur News
Page 11
“Gov’t will not abandon sugar in troubled times” – PM tells gathering - plans increased assistance for private farmers
PM Moses Nagamootoo addresses the gathering By Jarryl Bryan The inaugural National Cane Farmers’ Conference was held at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre yesterday, with Prime Minister and First Vice President Moses Nagamootoo addressing sugar cane farmers and giving assurances that despite the challenges, there was no question of Government scaling down or abandoning the industry. But in light of the financial burden the industry has placed on the nation, Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder put forward several plans, including “a proposition to put more sugar cane production into private farmers (hands), similar to the rice industry.” The conference attracted attendees from varying demographics, including members of cabinet and the diplomatic corps. It also gave
the Government the chance to interact with farmers and allay their concerns. N a g a m o o t o o acknowledged that while the once booming industry had been reduced to being a “pauper that lives off of handouts from the state”, the Government had no intention of abandoning the sugar industry in its times of trouble, unlike other CARICOM countries. “The focus is to make sugar work. We have too many workers who stand to lose with the collapse of the industry. This new Government will not allow sugar to sink,” the Prime Minister stated. Nagamootoo lauded the Private Cane Farmers’ Committee, stating that through their efforts, 26,132 tonnes of sugar is expected to be produced for 2015. With 8,991 tonnes of sugar already
produced from the year’s first crop that leaves 17,141 tonnes expected from the second crop. He described this as a “very good and rewarding performance” that “could be better” from the private farmers. In comparison with the estates, which also have to produce sugar to sell to GuySuCo, the multi-billiondollar Skeldon factory has produced a mere 2,656 from its first crop of 2015, while Albion recorded 15,487 tonnes, Rose Hall 7,688 tonnes and Blairmont 10,525
A section of the audience pays rapt attention to proceedings tonnes. All have been behind target. “There are many shortfalls that affect GuySuCo. Enhanced focus will be placed on shortage of skilled personnel, labour turnouts in the field and factories, Guysuco’s capital expenditure programme, cost of production and marketing of sugar.” These matters, the politician affirmed, would be addressed by Government with urgency. Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder took a similar line, but also revealed
the Government’s plan to provide more support to private cane farmers through a limited revolving fund, in addition to introducing aquaculture in the cane fields “(Through this fund) a small farmer will be entitled to small loans at zero interest for farming purposes. Many farmers, mostly from Demerara, benefitted from this initiative and will continue to do so. However, this also needs a $200,000 restriction on each farm, which works out at $50,000 per acre.” The Minister also decried
the instances of cane farm abandonment, stating that 1000 hectares were abandoned by cane farmers for varying reasons. He called on farmers to return to their holdings. Commenting on the Commission of Inquiry into GuySuCo launched by the Government, Holder stated that the COI will “improve the structure of the industry, including the environment for innovation and sustainability.” In addition, the Minister stated that the Continued on page 24
Page 12
Kaieteur News
Friday August 15, 2015
Ed Ahmad for Bullets from army shooting range damage civilian’s car sentencing on Jan. 15 As fate would have it, what could have tragically ended in fatality yesterday was restricted to minor damage to a Toyota AT 212 car. The vehicle was parked in Kitty in the vicinity of the Guyana Defence Force headquarters and was damaged by bullets. Kaieteur News understands that the car belonged to a Stanley Place, Kitty resident who initially was under the impression that his car was hit in a driveby shooting. However, after noticing further damage, the man became convinced that there was something more to it. It was then that he looked across the double carriageways of JB Singh and Vlissengen Roads, and noticed an unpainted building in the GDF compound with a few holes in the concrete wall. Information reaching this newspaper was that the man then ventured over to the GDF compound and informed soldiers of the incident that left his car with bullet holes and a shattered window. It was only then soldiers realized that bullets being
- pass through building
A bullet hole in the car’s door fired in the shooting range were piercing the concrete wall. The man was then visited at his home by GDF officials who promised to replace his shattered car window and have the holes in the car sealed. Kaieteur News understands that the indoor shooting range was recently constructed, but without reinforced walls or the special type of concrete blocks that would have been needed. It
was also built without sandbags and without solid blocks. The fact that none of the officers who use the range noticed the damage to the wall, baffles many. However, residents of Kitty are happy that no one was injured and the man whose car was hit is especially thankful that he was not in it at the time. This newspaper understands that the range has since been shut down.
Almost three years after he pleaded guilty to a mortgage fraud charge in the US, Guyana-born New York realtor Edul Ahmad is set to be sentenced on January 15, 2016. Prosecutors had managed to use Ahmad as a star witness in a witness tampering case against the businessman’s former friend, ex-Senator, John Sampson. Sampson was found guilty a few weeks ago. The sentencing had been delayed for Ahmad, a wellknown businessman in both New York and in Guyana, but within the last few weeks, proceedings have started to bring the matter to closure. The court in New York has ordered the Probation Department to disclose the presentence report (PSR) before November 23, 2015. Sentencing is scheduled for January 15, 2016 at 10:00hrs, according to orders made by Judge Dora Irizarry on Thursday. In February 2012, Ahmad reportedly wore a wire, recording Sampson during a meeting. In July, he gave testimony during a four-week trial. Ahmad is well known to tens of thousands of Guyanese living in the New York area, as he was well
Edul Ahmad is to know his fate next January connected in the real estate business. A former policeman in Guyana, he appeared in a New York court before Judge Irizarry in October 2012 and pleaded guilty to count one of the tencount criminal complaints against him, and told the court that his attorney has advised him that there is no viable defence to the charges against him. In admitting guilt, Ahmad told Judge Irizarry that between January 1995 and January 2009, within the Eastern District of New York and elsewhere, together with others, he knowingly and intentionally conspired to defraud several lending institutions, in a mortgage fraud scheme that lasted almost 15 years. The United States
Attorney’s office said that Ahmad was part of a scheme that defrauded American lending institutions of approximately US$50 million, obtaining approval for mortgages on various properties by falsifying documents submitted to the lending institutions, using a string of straw buyers, and other illegal practices. In detailing the allegations against the Queens businessman with strong political connections, Judge Irizarry outlined a scheme which had as its victims not only financial institutions, but also many ordinary NewYorkers, most of whom were Guyanese immigrants pursuing the American dream to own their own home, only to find themselves trapped in a real estate scheme, ultimately resulting in them losing their homes in foreclosure proceedings, while Ahmad and his co-conspirators made millions of dollars. Ahmad’s attorney had signaled intentions to challenge the financial loss attributed to him. Prosecutors had advised a term of between 121 and 151 months (10 to approximately 13 years) of imprisonment for Ahmad. Ahmad’s case has attracted much attention from the media in Guyana and in New York.
Friday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 21
Procurement system broken, fosters unfair environment – Finance Minister - IDB-funded programme to be implemented as part of reform process
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan By Kiana Wilburg A rigourous review of government’s current process of tendering and procurement, has led Finance Minister Winston Jordan to the firm conclusion that the system is “broken” and as a result, fostered an environment of unfairness and inequality, among other ills. He expressed this sentiment during the presentation of his 2015 Budget on Monday. The Finance Minister asserted that the present system needs to be fixed quickly. As an immediate step, he informed members of the National Assembly that Government has changed the composition of the Tender Board. He said that it has also moved to establish the long-
awaited Public Procurement Commission (PPC), the legislated oversight body of the tendering process in Guyana. Significantly too, Jordan said that with financial support from the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), Government will implement a project to strengthen and modernize public procurement. Through this project, the Finance Minister said that government will aim to improve the efficiency and value for money in public procurement through strategic planning and the introduction of electronic Government Procurement (eGP). He explained that the e-GP will allow all public authorities to manage their procurement
process and Government purchases online; from advertising of bids, to receiving offers, to publication of contract awards and post-award contract management. Jordan asserted that other activities contemplated are: revision of the Procurement Act and its Regulations; establishment of a complaints mechanism and debarment procedures that take account of international best practices; and training in modern procurement operations and tools. The Finance Minister had told Kaieteur News that these reforms to the Tender Board would be done to make the entity more responsive while returning accountability and transparency to it. The award of contracts in Guyana by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) has always been a matter of contention in several quarters. There have been accusations of favouritism along with other complaints of anticompetitive practices. To fix this, the APNU+AFC Government has been advocating for the establishment of the PPC for some time. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which according to procedure, is
chaired by a member of the opposition, has to nominate the five members of the Procurement Commission. The National Assembly by two-thirds majority has to ratify their appointments. The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) is however, yet to take its seats in the House. As a result, the establishment of the Procurement Commission is stalled. Former Auditor General, Anand Goolsarran, who had spoken extensively on the matter, recently said that, “With the political opposition not taking up their seats in the Assembly, it will take quite a while for the Public Accounts Committee to be constituted. In addition, the requirement of two-thirds majority is likely to pose a huge challenge in terms of agreement on the names of the five candidates. This is likely to further delay the activation of the Commission.” He had suggested that the next best alternative, therefore, is for the NPTAB to be reformed in such a manner that the public will place confidence in its work. The Chartered Accountant said that one consideration is for the NPTAB to be given greater autonomy and flexibility, free of ministerial involvement and influence, while at the same time, ensuring that the
provisions of the Procurement Act are followed. He had said that indeed, the Act provides for the NPTAB to execute the functions of the Procurement Commission until such time that the Commission is established. He had said that the reforming of the NPTAB could therefore be such that, in addition to its own functions, its operations could mirror those of the Commission. “Of course, this is a temporary measure until the Commission is established,” he added. Goolsarran had also contended that the weak systems of the NPTAB need to be addressed by the new administration, as they cost the country approximately $28B annually. The former Auditor General then pointed to credible allegations of corrupt behaviour in public procurement. These included sole sourcing of drug contracts to the New GPC, contract splitting, inflated engineer’s estimates, evaluation bias on behalf of favoured contractors, the use of inexperienced contractors, the absence of competitive bidding in some cases and overpayment to contractors. Goolsarran had said that at least some $28 billion, or
US$140M, is lost annually by looking at those areas. His estimation was garnered from an overview of the Auditor General’s reports on the country’s accounts over the past few years. He had also highlighted some of the glaring shortcomings of the NPTAB, among them the absence of District Tender Boards for Neighbourhood Democratic Councils; the failure to publish in NPTAB’s website; the award of all contracts between $200,000 and $15 million; the failure of members of the various tender boards to file financial returns with the Integrity Commission; the non-establishment of a formal Bid Protest Committee and the failure to exercise due diligence in ensuring that evaluators had the requisite expertise. Goolsarran had said, too, that there are certain parts of the Procurement Act which have not been adhered to since the Act came into effect on 1 January 2004. These include ensuring the criteria used for selection are such that they do not discriminate against particular contractors and suppliers and the award of contracts based on the lowest evaluated bid as opposed to the lowest bid. Failing to look at these, he opined, have also proven to be very costly to the country.
Page 22
Kaieteur News
SERVICES
WANTED
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
One salesgirl; excellent worker –Call 226-5793 between 9:00-5:00 (Mon-Sat) & Call: 666-3569, 233-2865 (Sunday 7am-9pm).
Building or Renovating? For quality services at affordable cost - Contact: 592-682-9935 or email: creativeconstructionservice 15@gmail.com.
Wanted Urgently! One porter for canter truck- Call: 222-3927; 649-9876 Live in maid must know to cook-Call: 679-8765
Jet+ Marack men- 8:30-4:30. Visa Application: U.S.A, Tel: 694-2310 Canada & UK; Guyana Laying birds to buy – Passport application. Graphics Contact: 226-0772; 225-9304 design, Advertisement. Tel: 6262 Mason, 2 Labourer- Call 7040; 265-4535. 265-3586 between 7am-4pm PARTY DECORATING: balloon creation, back drops Experienced taxi driver and etc. for weddings, birthdays, dispatcher @ Princess Hotel anniversary etc. Make your Providence-Tel: 616-5419 event extra special! Tel Labourers for wood Maya: 642-6664 concession -$5,000 per day – REPAIRS AT LOW COST: Call: 618-0487 FRIDGES, AIR- We offer good price for new CONDITIONERS,WASHING Herstelling land, we clean it MACHINES, TVS, and pay all legal fees-Call: MICROWAVES, FREEZERS 611-7223; 604-2207 - CALL:629-4946 OR 225Male Sales representative to 4822 work on commission in New REPAIRS & SPARE, Amsterdam, must have FRIDGE, FREEZER, A/C, drivers license -Call: 609-3650 WASHERS, STOVES CONTACT NICK: 683- Office clerk: senior/junior. With CXC Maths/English, 1312, 627-3206 Computer Knowledge is an 24HRS Shutter/Door repairs- asset. Call: 219-5354 Call Luk’s: 677-4695, 2230998, beat/match quotations Live in maid/assistant, for shutters and awnings salesgirl, ECD –Tel: 603-5716; 644-9802 from others. Repairs at affordable prices: Experienced wash bay living in fridge, air conditioner, attendants washing machines, dryers, Georgetown, Attractive TV, microwaves & freezer- Salary- Tel: 646-8748 Call: 610-5846 or 661-8158 One Chain Saw operator – Floor sanding & lacquering Tel: 618-0487 house plans, estimate & One live in domestic between painting –Call: 650-4362 25yrs-35yrs- salary 70,000 Mahadeo Construction for all monthly, live in waitress construction, carpentry, between 18-25yrs- $60,000 masonry, pluming, painting monthly-Tel:610-3974 etc. Free estimates and plan Contact # 669-7376 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar FOR SALE/RENT American pool tables –Call: 277-0578
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman, Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj Building- Tel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997
SALON
VEHICLE FOR SALE
FOR RENT
Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal and Sacha cosmetics. Call: 647-1773/660-5257
1 Mazda Axela, PTT series, low mileage, e x c e l l e n t condition -owner migrating Tel: 649-0956
Jacqueline Sookram, Cocoa Stix Spa & Salon- Tel:6928633. Specialised in facial, pedicure, manicure & massage. Back to School Promotion10%-45% of all service for children, Monday – Friday (9-3pm) –Tel: 2258701; 622-2643
We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 TacomaCall:680-3154
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Salon & Spa @ Aracari Resort! Available Now: Hollywood herbal skin whitening cream, scrub & sun block. Phone: 264-3312 or 6003927
VACANCY Porters & Carpenters to work in Coveden E.B.D. Apply at Alabama Trading Georgetown Ferry Stelling. Male Supervisor to work in housekeeping Dept. Tel: 2250198 or 233 South Road Lacytown. 1 Female domestic maid must be able to prepare vegetarian meals. Apply at Alabama Trading Georgetown Ferry Stelling Sales Rep and office Assistant, preferably with experienced and from West Coast Demerara –Call: 2541801 Salesperson to work @ Berbice & Demerara Area, must have a vehicle & police clearance, attractive salary & commission- Call: 231-8344 Canter Driver, Delivery Person and warehouse staff, must have experience and police clearance, attractive salary. Call:231-8344 2 Accounts clerk with Grades 1 & 2 in Maths & English. Apply at Technical Services, Eccles Industrial Site, E.B.D. Experienced legal computer clerk-Phone 624-7087
ACCOMODATION Specials on room! Free breakfast, Wi-Fi luxuriously & comfortably @ Signature Inn, 82 Laluni Street, Georgetown –Tel: 226-2145; 227-5037 HEALTH Herbal nectar treatment for diabetic, hypertension and other sickness (follow me) sexual enhancers –Tel: 6962957
Friday August 15, 2015
Experienced Pharmacist to work part time at Lachman Singh Drugs Store- Contact: 622-4746
AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom- Cash / terms- Call: 680-3154 2013 Mercedes C250 turbo AMG coupe, retractable glass top, mileage 15K, alcantara leather interior, brush aluminum acc- Call: 650-5136
Property for rent at #2 Canal Polder- Tel: 613-1860 2- Two bedroom apartment for rent @ Mon Repos, North East Coast, price $60,000 – Call: 688-6005 2 Properties @ Bel-Air Park all convenience , furnished US-1800 & 4 bedrooms unfurnished US2,200, newly renovated –Tel:231-7839 (working hours)
2008 FIELDER -$2.5M, 2008 RACTIS -$2.44M, CARINA 212 -$1.9M, NEVER REGISTERED & FULLY LOADED VEHICLES –TEL: 617-2891 One Mitsubishi Canter Fuso Crane Truck, Big Crane, 3 Ton 6 lugs excellent, GTT Series, price $4.5M –Call:6226746 Toyota pit-bull (roof-rack), unregistered, Noah, Voxy – Call: 603-9700
Two bedroom apartment to rent in Sophia -$35,000 –Call: 613-1847
Toyota NZE PLL series, fully loaded mag rims, Deck/DVD/ reverse camera- $1.5M negotiable- Call: 609-1040
Newly renovated one bedroom apartment in Herstelling –Tel: 265-2171, 690-6353
Smart Choice Auto: Premio, Allion, Fielder, Carina 212, Bluebird –Call: 652-3820; 6654529
Self-contained rooms in Prashad Nagar, also wanted 1 live in house keeper -Tel: 659-3865; 629-2424, 227-2993
Going Cheap! A15 Allion in excellent condition. Alarm, AC, Stero etc- asking $1.65Contact: Call: 679-9383
One two bedrooms apartment @ 128 Middle Road La Penitence, working couple preferred-Call: 2255533
One fully loaded Toyota Fun Cargo PLL 9098, excellent condition with Alarm, CD Player -$1.2M –Call: 641-9923, 627-5382 In Stock @ First Class Auto: 08 Premio, Allion, Runx, Axio, Bluebird, Sienta, Fielder, Rush –Tel: 609-8188, 638-3045 Tractor Massey Ferguson, from Canada – MF165 $1.7M, MF265-$2.1M, MF135 -$1.1M, Ranger Pick Up Truck -$1.4M –Call: 682-5230; 628-9596 One new model Toyota Axio, unregistered rims, TV, Back Camera, Fogs lights, etc-Call: 612-6215
Live in maid must know to cook- Call: 231-0363
Toyota RAV 4, late PMM series, fully powered, first owner -$2.5M-Contact: 6216363 (anytime)
One Trainee A.C, Refrigerator, Technician – Call: 231-0655 VEHICLE FOR SALE
2004 PMM Lexus IS200, 2,000cc, leather- 53,725KM $2.4M negotiable –Call: 6474800
One Toyota Carina AT150, good working condition, one new 50cc k i d s b i k e , excellent condition- Call: 642-1137; 682-0111
Hair & nail station: qualified technician @ Alyssa Beauty Salon & Tattoo Parlour, 103 Regent & Wellington Sts. (Multi Complex Mall) –Call: 684-1062
PJJ Toyota Harries Suv 3,000cc, fully loaded, perfect engine-$2.5M negotiableCall: 647-4800
New spacious 2 bedroom apartments with kitchen, bath, camera, grill, fenced, secured yard, Vreed-en-Hoop – Call: 682-5230; 628-9596
2 Bedrooms apartment in Cummings Lodge –Call: 2223750 on weekends only 2 Bedroom apartment @ Samatta Point, Grove- Call: 602-3585
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. One 928F Caterpillar Wheel Loader- Contact # 650-0402/ 260-4988 Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc Call: 225-9032, 647-2943 Quality pine cupboard doors –Contact: 621-1278 One Complete land Dredge with two Perkins engine for sale - $ 1.5M -Call: 684-6048 or 689-0217 Moving sale – all household items on sale –Call: 656-7133 One welding machine- Call: 687-7725 52ft complete cabin cruiser. In excellent condition- Tel: 592654-2817, 592-622-2958 Lister Pitter AC1 6B-HP, generator 4KW, 110/220 Volts on wheels –Call: 6841068 Large Red snapper fishing boat 66ft, with 85 traps, all licenses working, 3yrs old – Call: 674-3735; 652-8970 Marine Parts, inboard engines, gear box, shaft, propellers, gland, all electronics, etc –Call: 6743735/ 652-8970 One transport property on Duncan Street, laser level, De walt Drill and refrigerator. Call: 600-7864 One Stall @ Stabroek Market, One STHL motor blower, one Tiller, 33.5 Farm land @ Kuru Kuru- Call: 225-7794, 679-1151 Green Heart Lumber: 10X10, 1 1 X 1 1 , 1 2 X 1 2 , 13X13,14X14,15X15,16X16, 17X17 and 18X18- Call: 6393450 One 4" & 6" dredge complete (new) for sale, price to sellTel: 667-7512 or 625-9358 Dachshund, 7 weeks old and de-wormed -$12,000 – Tel:216-0521; 642-8671
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’SCARRENTAL-CALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVEAUTORENTAL: CARS & SUV FOR RENTAL$4,000 & UPPER DAY-CALL: 643-5122, 219-3900, EMAIL: PRO_AUTO RENTAL @YAHOO.COM Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807 Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up- Call: 690-6494
PROPERTY FOR SALE Republic Park Phase 1, 4 bedrooms, 48M, negotibale Call:645-2580, 609-6516 House for sale @ Lot 180 Block 8 Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, Price $25M negotiable –Call: 266-0309; 626-6555 17-15 Block X Diamond, E.B.D –Phone: 613-3944 Continued on page 23
Friday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 23
High salaried: GPL’s boss raked in $6M monthly, deputies over $2M each Details are emerging of the kind of pay that top execs of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) were getting. Former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Bharrat Dindyal, was receiving in excess of $6M monthly. That figure was inclusive of allowances and other perks. Dindyal’s services were abruptly ended yesterday. The CEO had two deputies- Aeshwar Deonarine who was in charge of Administration and Colin Welch who has responsibilities for Operations. Deonarine was reportedly drawing down over $2M while Welch over $2.5M.
Dindyal’s pay would have made him the highest paid executive for any of the stateowned entities. A close runner-up would have Dr. Rajendra Singh, former CEO of the Guyana Sugar Corporation, who took home over $5M (US$25,000) monthly. That US$25,000 monthly salary did not include housing, a driver and other benefits. There is growing anger over the high salaries paid to executives with little evidence of the systems in place to determine whether the emoluments were tied to performance. GPL had been taking flak for blackouts and high commercial losses from theft, despite billions pumped
into new transmission lines, generators and sub-stations. The new Government says it has been making a number of startling discoveries in what has appeared to not only include excesses and abuse but a clear breakdown in the accounting systems in GPL and other state agencies. Singh’s services were terminated at GuySuCo a few weeks ago after the administration stepped in and sacked the Board of Directors over the state of the sugar industry.Deonarine is under investigation for a $27M backpay that he took. He has been sent on administrative leave. GPL on Thursday wrote
Dindyal, ending his services and telling him to leave yesterday. Confirming a report in Kaieteur News yesterday that the executive was sent home, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure said that the executive has been formally advised that a decision has been taken that his engagement with the company will conclude effective 16:00hrs yesterday. The ministry said that Dindyal’s substantive contract came to an end on December 31, 2014 with no renewal. He continued to serve as GPL’s CEO based on what was described as “an Continued on page 24
Letters... Where your views make the news
How Much to Pay?... From page 5 salary for the like of Principal of Queen’s College and Cyril Potter College of Education. (It would appear that regardless, performance appraisal does not apply at this pinnacle of teaching and therefore the latter is not rewarded). In the same breath the word pinnacle is a gross misnomer (if not a degradation) as the salary compares with such Public Service Grade 11 positions as i) Schools Inspector; ii) Regional Education Officer; iii) Deputy Chief Planning Officer; iv) Head, Physical Education Unit; and v) Coordinator, Home Economics and Craft. Also what defies commonsense is the widths of the two sets of scales. In the case of the Teachers’ Service Commission the widths of purported salary scales range from 4.63% at the lowest to 11.45% at the highest. Compare this with the Public Service narrowest scale width of 12.63% at the lowest and 39.86% the widest. How does one relate the earlier formula in respect of those who have to educate the latter? So it is clear that in the former case an outstanding performance cannot earn even a 5% increase at the lowest levels. How in the name of commonsense can it be condoned that the people who educate those who become public servants can be treated so disgracefully? But this maltreatment is by no means limited to financial returns only. And here is where the teachers themselves have contributed to their own malnutrition. It is not as if the Guyana Teachers Union did not create their
own dilemma so to speak. It is difficult to believe that their respective Executive Teams were not studious enough to research comparabilities both locally and overseas. It is difficult to find a salary structure anywhere which such contradictions as the following substantive position grades as: a) Teacher Aide (TS 1(A) – which equates to a Vehicle Driver in the Public Service. b) It is difficult to locate anywhere else a permanent salary scale (TS 1(B) for an Acting Teacher. How does one reconcile having a permanent ‘acting’ appointment? c) This is not only compounded by two separate salary grades; but is reinforced by a number of the following permanent ‘temporary’ appointments: i) Temporary Unqualified Assistant (TS2A) ii) Temporary Qualified Master 3 (TS2B) iii) Temporary Qualified Master 2 (TS2C) iv) Temporary Qualified Master 1 TS3 Then there is the admixture of ‘Graduate’ and ‘nonGraduate’ Master and Assistant Masters – the conundrum being that the one could only Graduate from CPCE (after 2 years); while after 4 years at UG the other is but a nonGraduate.What hurts further is that a non-Graduate Head of Department earns some seven (7) salary grades less than his Graduate counterpart. These are clearly self-inflicted wounds on the GTU membership who carry the same responsibility – a pattern of discrimination which obtains wherever responsibility and accountability are identical. So those who dilate about
increases in pay in the Public Service need to understand the facts underlying what they say. In the case of teachers for example there is much more to reveal about vacancies in critical subjects, apart from pay. Admittedly it needs to be updated.Hopefully however the point would have been that there is no carte blanche panacea to resolving the problems of the right levels of pay for diverse categories of the Public Service. Three final points to be
made:·That there are Public Servants who are paid betterthan Parliamentarians; Increases for Ministers also mean comparable increases for Opposition representatives· Anyone who is aware of compensation being based on the Decision Band Method would appreciate the breadth and depth of decisions now facing the new administration and should appreciate that they should earn increases on what has been an irrational salary structure hitherto. E.B. John
From page 22
LAND FOR SALE Luxury Gated CommunityMall, Pool, intelligent security system, well, solar. Selling @ 6USD per Sq.ft – Call: 609-0783 Eccles Waterfront and Bel Air Gardens Ocean View land for sale- Contact:954-769-0576, 1belair@mail.com Land at long Creek on Highway 100ftX200ft –Tel: 679-7159; 685-8926
PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale, Grove $20M / Rent: $50,000 per month. Tel: 625-5461. Yarrowkabra Linden Highway 200’X100’ fully fence, house, chicken & pig pen –Call: 6760931 One 3 bedrooms 2 storey concrete house @ 8 Street Foulis H/Scheme –Call: 2563360 or 685-8485
Land @ Parfaite Harmonie & Tuschen -$1.5M each, 1-2 storey property @ Crane – Call: 604-6724 Providence$3.5M, Herstelling -$3.5M & $2.5M, Farm - $2.2M, Parfait Harmonie -$1.2M, $1.5M & $2.8M, Eccles -$5MCall:611-7223; 604-2207 Transported house land Richmond Essequibo, large lot, next to Nursery School, full up high, fruit Tree-$4.5Tel: 682-5230; 628-9596
EDUCATION Enroll Now At Xenon Academy! Tank Street Grove, E.B.D: Nursery, Primary & Secondary- Call Sir Bharrat 643-4045; 2662551 Makeup Classes @ La Vie Est Belle. Come register and be apart, its life changing! Call:682-9699; 218-2092 Spanish Classes!!! Learn Spanish in 3 Months: Introductory, Intermediate, Advance, children creativeSaturday –Tel: 673-8605. Register Now!!! Simpli Royal School of Beauty – Pamela Dillon: 6654565; 225-2303. Hair, Skin, Nail Technology, easy payments.
TO LET Newly built 2 bedrooms apartment: bath, toilet, kitchen, sitting area on High Road Greenwich Park, Parka –Tel: 649-6202/664-3508 Lodge Apartments (Vlissingen/Durban): unfurnished -$40,000$90,000, furnished-$500USD monthly-Call: 677-9638 Lodge (Vlissingen /Durban): Professional/office/business (no food retailing) space- Call: 677-9638 Three bedrooms concrete top flat in Cane View Ave. South Ruimveldt Gardens $90,000-Call: 218-1949 APARTMENT AT GROVE$50,000 –TEL: 644-5151 2 Bedrooms apartment, UG Student or working couplefully grilled, toilet and bathCall: 654-9807
Page 24
Kaieteur News
Stats Bureau has been performing “under pressure, adverse conditions” The country’s chief data agency, the Bureau of Statistics, has been performing under pressure and poor conditions. This was communicated to members of the National Assembly on Monday during the presentation of the 2015 budget speech by Finance Minister, Winston Jordan. He expressed that it goes without saying that the timely availability of quality statistics is indispensable to proper planning, policy development, budgeting and a wide range of related activities. On this premise, the Finance Minister revealed that the Bureau will be modernized and provided with the tools to effectively perform, and be of service, to a wide range of stakeholders. In this respect, Jordan said that nearly $150 million has been provided in the 2015 budget to rehabilitate the old Customs House, which has been identified as the permanent headquarters of the Bureau. This will be its first, official headquarters since its incorporation in 1957. He said that this would allow the Bureau to finally
consolidate its operations into a single unit, having had to contend with managing from three different locations. The Finance Minister said that work continues apace to complete the editing and checking of all primary data for the Census, which is slated for full release during the second quarter of 2016. He stated that the Bureau will build capacity to engage in several activities. Jordan noted that during 2015, it will continue preparation for the new series of post-census national surveys, which will commence in December when an updated population frame becomes available. He said that the first will be a Living Standards Measurement Survey to facilitate a new round of poverty analysis. He said that this is critical, as it would provide Government with upto-date information that would aid in targeting assistance and programmes to the most vulnerable sections of the populace. The Minister of Finance noted that survey execution is a very costly exercise when undertaken throughout all 10
regions of Guyana. Jordan said that it is therefore, the vision of the Bureau’s management to transition, over the next three years, to annual multi-topic surveys, based on smaller samples of the population, so as to avoid the prohibitive cost of nationwide singletopic surveys. Another area of interest, he said, concerns the use of the Georgetown Index as a proxy index of measurement of inflation for the entire country. Jordan said that while acknowledging that Guyana’s sheer size and land space preclude data gathering and compilation of a nationwide index, on a monthly basis, the Bureau has, nevertheless, committed to put in place the necessary logistics and infrastructure to commence producing an all-urban index. He said that this will incorporate the sub-indices for New Amsterdam, Corriverton, Anna Regina, and Linden. In the meantime, the Finance Minister said that a monthly dissemination of the Georgetown Index will commence from January, 2016.
From page 11 COI was mandated to chart a course for the industry for the period spanning 2016-2030 and that the Commission’s findings would be ready by September of 2015. Holder, who was recently hospitalized for a heartrelated condition but looked sprightly enough in his delivery, also spoke of a projected shift in sugar cane production, with private farmers producing more sugar than ever versus the estates. The placement of the industry into private hands has been a prevalent debate, as GuySuCo has been granted massive subsidies under the APNU+AFC. Presidential Advisor on Sustainable Development, Dr. Clive
Thomas, has repeatedly called for downsizing of the industry and the need to privatize the industry. He currently sits on GuySuCo’s Commission of Inquiry. Speaking on the diversification of the industry, Holder spoke of GuySuCo packaging not only sugar, but rice as well. He also explored ethanol production as a means of operating the fuel pumps and earning revenue. FARMERS’PERSPECTIVE Speaking with Kaieteur News after the conference, farmers had an optimistic view of the conference. One farmer, Kelvin Braithwaite gave credit to the Government for examining ways to help farmers. He however, pointed to financing as one of the
most pressing issues. “The biggest problem right now is finance. We are not getting that kind of raw cash to get machines. It’s not like years ago when you had to get (pitch) forks and weeding. Those are outdated. Machines are needed for faster production.” Another farmer described the convention as very informative, but stated that “where prices are concerned, we are at a dead end. We cannot survive with the price. So we need to hear from them so we can know what we, as a cane farmer, can put into the industry. Other than that, I may have to phase out.” He also listed the fertilizer and punt charges payable to GuySuCo as a matter of grave
Friday August 15, 2015
High salaried: GPL’s boss raked... From page 23 understanding” between himself and the previous subject minister, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. There was no written documentation with regards to the “understanding”. “Based on information provided this “understanding” was apparently for a six-month period which commenced on January 1, 2015 and concluded on June 30, 2015. Mr. Dindyal communicated to new subject Minister, the Minister of Public Infrastructure, Mr. David Patterson that he intended to part ways with GPL but was prepared to remain as CEO for an interim transition period.” The ministry confirmed reports by this newspaper that the decision to end Dindyal’s service had to do with a recorded clash between
him and Welch two Fridays ago. Welch reportedly went down to GPL’s Loss Reduction office on Sheriff Street to serve two managers notice that they were to proceed on administrative leave pending investigations into possible wrongdoing. However, Dindyal who was called by staffers arrived at the office and told staffers that Welch had no authority to send home staffers. Rather that authority was with him or the Human Resources Department. Dindyal was heard on the video recording, which was posted on YouTube, as telling Welch to go back from where he came and that nobody supersedes him (Dindyal). He told Welch for the (expletive) Minister (Patterson) to call him on his
decision not to send the two staffers home. The ministry had this to say on how that video influenced its decision to part ways with Dindyal. “Having thoroughly examined these pertinent f a c t s a l o n g w i t h M r. Dindyal’s intervention in m a t t e r s relating to staff (some of which was video recorded and has been extensively viewed on social media) and his own performance appraisal and other relevant information, last evening (Thursday)advised Cabinet of the decision to conclude Mr. Dindyal’s engagement with GPL.” The Ministry said that a subsequent announcement will be made with regard to the plan relating to the administrative leadership of GPL.
From page 3 tax exemptions and incentives, including but not limited to tax holidays, remissions, tax waivers and duty free concessions on equipment, spares, tools and vehicles. The vehicles would be two SUVs, and three four-
door pick-ups, renewable three years for the next 40 years. Dax would have been able to invite and sign with any company or entity, to use the cable to transmit and receive data and information from any part of the world in the same way that today's telephone companies operate. To add insult to injury, the then government had agreed to pay Dax for specific emergency maintenance. The contract signed between Dr. Roger Luncheon and Faisal Mohamed has been described as the most generous giveaway package, worse that the Sanata Complex in the
run-up to the 2011 elections. It also mirrored the giveaway of the radio frequencies done under the administration of former President Bharrat Jagdeo, during his last days. T h e O n e L a p t op Per Family and the E-Governance projects along with the Brazilian fibre optic cable initiative, reportedly cost taxpayers in excess of US$70M. Another fiber optic cable contained in a transmission cable laid by the Guyana Power and Light Inc. and stretching along the coast, reportedly pushed the finally tally well past the US$120M mark.
From page 20 former customs officer explained that he turned his life around by finding religion and now understands just how wrong his past decisions were. With his insight into corruption, Beekham is adamant that it must be rooted out. The issues that must be tackled are mismanagement of funds, misuse of power, narcotics trafficking, money laundering and judicial killings, Beekham
said. He further called for President David Granger to establish a Commission of Inquiry to look into these matters. He said too that special attention should be paid to Guyana's administration under former president Bharrat Jagdeo. “I'm going to continue protesting. I'm hoping to get a job in Georgetown so I can protest more aggressively,” he said.
DAX axed on Brazil fibre optic cable...
“Gov’t will not abandon sugar in...
concern. Describing the punt charges as “way beyond”, he pointed out that 15 percent of the money he gets for sugar goes to punt charges for GuySuCo. The world price for sugar stands at approximately US$0.11 per pound, while Guyana’s cost of production is approximately US$0.40 per pound. In addition to the failure of the Skeldon factory and the industry’s below par production, the previous Government has nevertheless plugged billions into GuySuCo over the preceding years. This APNU+AFC administration has already given some $3.8B to GuySuCo and this year’s budget saw a further allocation of $8.2B.
It is not a “witch-hunt”, but...
Friday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 25
Page 26
Saturday August 15, 2015 Kaieteur News
Friday August 15, 2015
Kerry urges ‘genuine democracy’ at U.S. flag ceremony in Cuba Reuters - U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry declared a new era in relations as he celebrated restored diplomatic ties in Havana yesterday, but he also urged political change in Cuba, telling Cubans they should be free to choose their own leaders. The first U.S. secretary of state to visit the Caribbean island in 70 years, Kerry presided over a ceremony to raise the U.S. flag over the newly reopened American embassy. “We remain convinced the people of Cuba would be best served by a genuine democracy, where people are free to choose their leaders,” he said in a country where the Communist Party is the only legal political party, the media is tightly controlled, and political dissent is repressed. “We will continue to urge the Cuban government to fulfill its obligations under U.N. and Inter-American human rights covenants – obligations shared by the United States and every other country in the Americas,” Kerry said, his words accurately translated into Spanish and broadcast live on Cuban state television. His comments drew a firm riposte from Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, who defended his Communist government at a joint news conference and criticized the United States’ own record on rights, referring to racial strife and police brutality in America. Speaking later with reporters, Kerry said the U.S. Congress was unlikely to ever lift a punishing economic embargo on Cuba unless the Communist government improved its human rights
John Kerry record.“There is no way congress is going to vote to lift the embargo if they’re not moving with respect to issues of conscience,” Kerry said. Cuba fiercely rejects such conditions. Josefina Vidal, the Cuban foreign ministry director of U.S. affairs and lead negotiator in talks on restoring diplomatic relations, told Reuters in an interview that Cuba’s internal affairs were not negotiable and Cuba would never seek to placate those who have been trying to undermine the government from the United States. “We are not going to make a decision to try to please or respond to people who don’t want our well-being,” Vidal said in an interview. “Cuba will never do anything, nor will it move its position one millimetre to try to respond. ”The two countries were locked for decades in hostilities that outlived the Cold War. Yesterday, both sides made clear the rapprochement would be slow and incremental, with less challenging issues being tackled first.The sunlit ceremony at the em-
bassy overlooking the Malecon, the broad esplanade along Havana’s seafront, was a symbolic step in a path that opened last December when President Barack Obama and President Raul Castro announced they would seek to restore diplomatic ties, reopen embassies and work to normalise ties. Speaking at a podium outside the embassy before U.S. Marines raised the American flag there for the first time in 54 years, Kerry made plain that despite the historic opening, Washington would continue to push for democratic reforms.Cuba has long defended its style of government in the face of U.S. hostility and pressure to change since the 1959 revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power. Obama, a Democrat who has come under heavy criticism from Republican opponents and some in his own party over the policy shift towards Cuba, has said the rapprochement is partly because the attempt to force change by isolating the island did not work.
Cuba says won’t move ‘one millimeter’ to placate enemies in U.S. HAVANA (Reuters) Cuba’s lead negotiator in talks with Washington told Reuters yesterday that the island’s internal affairs would never be on the table and Havana would never move “one millimeter” to placate enemies in the United States. “Decisions on internal matters are not negotiable and will never be put on the negotiating agenda in conversations with the United States,” Josefina Vidal, director of U.S. affairs for the Cuban Foreign Ministry, said in an exclusive interview. “Cuba will never do absolutely anything, not move one millimeter, to try to respond,” she said after U.S.
Josefina Vidal Secretary of State John Kerry said in Havana that the U.S. Congress was unlikely to ever lift a punishing economic em-
bargo on Cuba unless the Communist government improved its human rights record.
Friday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Euro ministers give blessing to Greek bailout, wooing IMF on debt
Greek Finance Minister Euclid Tsakalotos listens his French counterpart Michel Sapin (R) during a euro zone finance ministers meeting in Brussels, Belgium. REUTERS/Francois Lenoir BRUSSELS/ATHENS (Reuters) - Euro zone finance ministers agreed yesterday to lend Greece up to 86 billion euros ($96 billion) after Greek lawmakers accepted their stiff conditions despite a revolt by supporters of leftist Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. Assuming approval by the German and other parliaments, 13 billion e u r o s should be in Athens next Thursday to pay pressing bills and a further 10 billion will be set aside at the European Stability Mechanism, earmarked to bolster Greek banks’ capital. In all, euro zone governments will lend 26 billion euros in a first tranche of the bailout before reviewing Greece’s compliance with their conditions in October. One remaining uncertainty - aside from Tsipras’ ability to deliver sweeping budget cuts and privatizations opposed by many of his own party - is the role of the International Monetary Fund. After backing two previous bailouts, the IMF renewed its call for the Europeans to grant Athens debt relief - a bone of contention between the Eurogroup and the Washington-based Fund. Managing Director Christine Lagarde told the Eurogroup by telephone that she could not commit until the IMF board reviewed the situation in the autumn. Officials said the Fund needed more assurances and detail on Greek reforms, notably to pensions, and steps to persuade it that Greece’s debt burden was sustainable.
But after deadlock since January that ravaged the already weak Greek economy and ended in a dramatic Uturn a month ago by the antiausterity leftist government to avert Athens’ expulsion from the euro, there was a cautious sense of optimism among ministers gathered in a Brussels deep in summer holiday languor.“After six months of very difficult negotiations with lots of ups and downs, we finally have an agreement,” Greek Finance Minister Euclid Tsakalotos told reporters. His appointment by Tsipras six weeks ago in place of his abrasive predecessor has been hailed by counterparts as a mark of a new Greek “realism”.“After the changes in the government and the crises that we had, the cooperation with let’s say the changed Greek government is very constructive, very well organized,” Jeroen Dijsselbloem, the Dutch minister who chaired the meeting, told reporters.Even Germany’s Wolfgang Schaeuble, who last month floated a Greek exit from the euro as Tsipras hesitated to agree terms with fellow leaders, sounded upbeat, if still wary of a new tone in Athens that caused an angry split in Tsipras’ leftist party, with nearly a third of Syriza lawmakers rebelling in parliament. “We will have to wait and see,” said Schaeuble, who has become a hate-figure for rigid austerity among Greeks tired of five years of soaring unemployment. “This is an opportunity.
But what is decisive is that Greece does what it says it will do.” Schaeuble was among numerous ministers who stressed they saw it as vital that the IMF take part in the third bailout, as it has in two programs totaling 240 billion euros since 2010. Not only would IMF lending reduce the amount needed from Europe - possibly by a sum similar to the 16 billion euros the Fund had ready when the second bailout program expired - but the IMF’s reputation for rigor would reassure skeptical parliaments and financial markets that conditions would be met. Lagarde said in a statement that Europe would need to provide “significant” debt relief as a complement to reforms Athens is trying to put Greece’s finances on a sustainable path. “I remain firmly of the view that Greece’s debt has become unsustainable and that Greece cannot restore debt sustainability solely through actions on its own,” she said, highlighting what has become a significant bone of contention with the European institutions with the IMF helped negotiate the new accord. Led by Germany, euro zone governments have ruled out taking a “haircut” to reduce the nominal principle of Greece’s debts to them. But the Eurogroup said in its statement that it would consider longer grace periods and repayment periods if Greece successfully met its loan conditions by an October review.
Page 27
Page 28
Kaieteur News
Friday August 15, 2015
CXC Registrar warns against stereotyping results BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – A senior official of the Barbados-based Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) yesterday warned the region against measuring the annual results of the examination body simply in Grade one’s or two’s. Speaking at the official release of the May-June 2015 Examinations Results, CXC Registrar Glenroy Cumberbatch said there is a purpose to education and as a result the region must examine how the CXC subjects can contribute to building better societies. “Despite the achievements we’ve had in the region, crime and violence still seem to dominate and also we had very high unemployment among youth,” Cumberbatch said, noting that in some instances unemployment rates were as high as 50 per cent depending on the country, with especially high figures around females. “In some subjects, we have four times the entries for females, as opposed to males,
Glenroy Cumberbatch but towards the end of the process, we still have high unemployment among the same females,” he said. Barbados Education Minister Ronald Jones noted that in the region, the CXC had proven to be a worthwhile catalyst for the improvement of the region’s educational standards. “CXC is on the cutting edge. It is one of the outstanding examination bodies in the world,” he told the cer-
emony, noting that there was “need to get more students doing our exams in the region “The he system is leaking too many of our children; that leaking will cause a flood of further despair,” he said expressing concern with some subject areas, and listed the seeming lack of interest in Social Studies and Caribbean History, and the apparent decline in interest in subjects such as Human and Social Biology. He said to change the current trends both students and teachers must work together and continue to strive for success.Meanwhile, the Senior Assistant CXC Registrar, Noel Stennett said that electronic marking, which was first introduced in 2010, will be fully implemented in the coming year.“The journey therefore has been won, it has been paced, it’s been reflected, and we’ve had the opportunity to look at the issues and address them, to bring together the various technologies...all in the interest of improving quality.”
Body cameras for cops coming soon Trinidad Guardian - Police officers may soon have their daily duties monitored as the service moves to launch its pilot project on officers wearing body cameras. In a telephone interview Wednesday, acting Police Commissioner Stephen Williams said the Police Service would soon launch the project. Recently the item showed its handiness in the United States with the activities of their officers being monitored. “It is a feature of the future and we identified it as critical step as we go forward. We are going on an experiment with the body cameras on officers,” he said. Williams declined to give a date when the pilot project would be introduced but, however, said it was “very soon.”He added: “We will be launching off on an experiment on body cameras. It’s about finding ways and means of improving issues of communications and capturing events. “We have people with cellphones capturing events and we want to know what has happened with an officer and members of the public. This is the best way, which is necessary.”
Stephen Williams He said it was a step in the right direction to improve the organisation. “It comes by way of the Police Service realising what is happening globally and locally and moving an organisation forward and making improvements necessary to build a relationship with members of the public and this what we are doing,” he said. In 2010, then acting Deputy Police Commissioner Gilbert Reyes said the Police Service was not authorised to use taser guns and therefore the weapons were illegal. Yet, that year, six Central Division officers, among them a sergeant, appeared before a Chaguanas magistrate on
three counts of misbehaviour in public office charged with an alleged taser gun attack on a Tunapuna family. He said several officers were charged with the taser gun attack. He did not want to comment further on that matter as it was still before the court. However, he said: “The Police Service will be moving forward to provide various force options for officers while on duty. The force options we are working on are where there is non-lethal force and up (wards). “The issue of lethal force where different considerations are used, force, tools and equipment,” he said.
Saturday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 29
Chandimal heroics helps Sri Lanka set India 176 for win (Reuters) - Dinesh Chandimal inspired a Sri Lankan fightback with an attacking unbeaten 162, his highest score, as the hosts set India a target of 176 on the third day on Friday to win the opening test at Galle. India, in reply, lost Lokesh Rahul (five) to reach 23 for one wicket at stumps, still needing another 153 runs for victory. First-innings centurion Shikhar Dhawan (13) and nightwatchman Ishant Sharma (five) were unbeaten at the crease. The tourists seemed to be cruising towards an inning victory after picking up three wickets in the morning but wicketkeeper-batsman Chandimal (162 not out) and Lahiru Thirimanne (44) stemmed the rot by adding 125 for the sixth wicket. Chandimal, 25, stitched
together another 82-run stand for the seventh wicket with Jehan Mubarak (49) during his 169-ball knock, which included 19 boundaries and four sixes, before the hosts were all out for 367 in their second innings. The right-handed batsman walked into bat with Sri Lanka on 92-4 and it became 95-5 in the next over forcing him to launch a counterattack. Chandimal, who was reprieved by a wrong decision by the umpire with him on single digit, played the sweep shot ferociously against the spinners and also employed the reverse sweep to good effect and picked up boundaries at will. After a successful morning session for the visiting bowlers, Thirimanne was the only batsman to fall
in the afternoon session. Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who picked up six wickets in the first innings, took his third in the second by sending back Thirimanne after a catch by Ajinkya Rahane at slip. Ashwin also clean bowled number 11 batsman Nuwan Pradeep to finish with a match haul of 10 wickets. Sri Lanka, bowled out in their first innings for 183, resumed the day on five for two wickets after dismissing India for 375 but lost nightwatchman Dhammika Prasad (three) on the first ball of the morning by fast bowler Varun Aaron. Prasad could not handle the steep bounce Aaron extracted off the Galle International Stadium pitch and gloved the ball to Rahane at gully.
Saturday August 15, 2015 ARIES (MAR. 21APRIL 20) You should want to feel good about yourself and your goals. You must get out and mingle. You're in need of love. TAURUS (APR. 21MAY 21) You may be overreacting to personal problems. You will do well if you mingle with the brass today. Lovers will be demanding. You are best to sign your partner up for activities that will be tiring. GEMINI (MAY22-JUNE 21) Romantic encounters will develop through group activity. Others may want to steal your thunder when they realize your ideas are pretty solid. CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) Don't expect the whole family to be overjoyed. Make amends if you can. You will have a problem with your boss if you haven't done your job. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) You may want to invest in something that will grow in value. Put your efforts into making changes to your domestic scene. In-laws or relatives may oppose your personal intentions. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) Take some time to change your house around. You can make favorable changes in your home environment. Pleasure trips will ease the tension between you and your mate.
LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) You are best to concentrate on your professional endeavors. Lighten up your serious attitude Residential moves will be favorable, and larger quarters the most probable direction. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) Residential moves will be favorable, and larger quarters the most probable direction. Avoid functions that will bring you in contact with those you find difficult to get along with. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Be fair, not colorful. Stress coupled with diet will add to stomach problems. You may find yourself in a heated dispute with a friend if you try to change your mind. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) Your charm will attract members of the opposite sex. Your words will be taken out of context if you're evasive with coworkers or employers. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) Confusion regarding other people's money and joint ventures will come to a head. Discrimination will be in order. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) Your tendency to dramatize may be a little much for your partner to take constantly. Attend to things that you should have done yesterday. Get busy putting your place in order.
The dismissal brought home captain Angelo Mathews to the crease and he stitched together a defiant 87run stand for the fourth wicket with retiring stalwart Kumar Sangakkara. Mathews (39) suffered a painful blow to his body off fast bowler Ishant Sharma early in his innings and decided to take the attack to the Indian bowlers. The experienced duo managed to keep the tourists at bay for over 90 minutes in the session before Rahane pulled off an excellent catch at slip off Ashwin to send back Sangakkara (40). The 37-year-old, who will retire after the second test against India in Colombo, walked off to a standing ovation. India captain Virat Kohli then introduced Amit Mishra, who had taken a wicket in his first over on Thursday evening, and the leg-spinner took out Mathews, who edged a catch to Lokesh Rahul at silly mid-off. Mishra, playing his first test for India in four years, should also have had the wicket of Thirimanne after the left-hander fell to a bat-pad catch but the umpire ruled it as not out. Scores: India 375 and 23 for 1 (Herath 1-13) need another 153 to beat Sri Lanka 183 and 367 (Chandimal 162*, Mubarak 49, Ashwin 4-114, Mishra 3-61).
Warner appointed... From page 31 leadership potential and believe he can perform an excellent job for Australian cricket over many years,” he said. “We supported the recommendation to appoint David Warner as vicecaptain, noting his role as a leading batsmen, his development and emergence as a leader within the team. We congratulate both men on their appointments.” Smith and Warner will lead Australia in the limitedovers matches that follow Clarke’s farewell Test at the Oval, before they travel to Bangladesh for their first overseas assignment together.
Dinesh Chandimal exults after getting to his fourth Test ton, Sri Lanka v India, 1st Test, Galle, 3rd day, August 14, 2015 ©AFP
Page 30
Kaieteur News
Saturday August 15, 2015
T&T Fizabad Senior College FC teams take on Fruta Conquerors in friendlies Those football fans who would have rued the unavailability of qualitative matches over the weekend may be relieved to hear that they could troop to the Tucville playfield this evening and tomorrow evening to whet their appetites on two potentially gripping affairs. Yes, the Fruta Conquerors FC will host two teams out of Trinidad and Tobago starting this afternoon a boys and a Girls’ U19 squads out of the Fizabad Senior College FC, Trinidad and Tobago, competes against two select local teams of mainly Fruta Conquerors players. The overseas players and their management team, 44 in all, from the Twin Island Republic landed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timerhi, last evening and immediately traveled to the Diamond EBD offices of the Guyana Beverage Company (GBC) where they held discourse with the media. President of the Fruta Conquerors Football Club (FCFC), Wayne Forde, joined forces with the Managing
Members of the men and women’s teams seen with officials at the press briefing shortly after landing in Guyana. Director of the GBC and welcomed the players to Guyana. He urged them to enjoy the hospitality meted out by the Guyanese even as he envisaged competitive games. Mr. Selman spoke at length of his relations with the Guyanese public stating that during his 30 years in Guyana he has developed a good relationship with the
football fraternity and was the first to sponsor a team (Fruta Conquerors). He endorsed the friendship and camaraderie of the Guyanese people stating that the host club had been integral in the branding of his product locally. Coach of the T&T team, Brian London, was very upbeat and while thanking Mr. Selman for his kind
Serena Williams advances in Rogers Cup in Toronto TORONTO (AP) — Topranked Serena Williams advanced to the Rogers Cup quarterfinals Thursday night, beating 16th-seeded Andrea Petkovic of Germany 6-3, 6-2. ‘’I think I served better,’’ Williams said. ‘’It was a big difference. I still think I have a tremendous amount of improvement to do off the ground and everywhere else.’’ Williams won titles in Toronto titles in 2001, 2011 and 2013. The 21-time Grand Slam singles champion will face Italy’s Roberta Vinci, a 64, 6-3 winner over Russia’s Daria Gavrilova. Second-seeded Simona Halep of Romania also advanced, outlasting 13thseeded Angelique Kerber of Germany 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 in hot afternoon conditions. ‘’I did well in the last game,’’ Halep said. ‘’I said, ‘I have to win it because I cannot move anymore.’’’ Halep will face sixthseeded Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland, a 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 winner over Alize Cornet of France. In the late match, fifthseeded Ana Ivanovic of Serbia played Slovenia’s
gesture in facilitating the team’s arrival assured that his players will play good football with the aim of carting off the spoils. Team manager, Troy Jebodhsingh, was also grateful to the organizers for their efforts in making the trip possible. He was very outright while pointing to the two trophies at stake and
displayed on the table, when he warned Forde that both accolades would be travelling back with the Trinidadian team. Captain of the women’s team, Crystal Preddy, warned her adversaries that her team is here to play tough football and take away the spoils. Several other speakers delivered brief remarks including coach (FCFC), Calvin Allen and GFF
Boyce/Jefford Classic VI races off today in Linden Guyana’s leading Track and Field Championships, Boyce and Jefford Track and Field Classic will race out of the blocks at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground, Linden from 1pm today with several of the Caribbean and Guyana’s top athletes on show. The two day meet, will see five finals being contested today namely, the 3000m Women, the 5000m Men, the Long Jump Women, the Medley Relays and showpiece 4x100m Men and Women Final. However, a number of preliminary rounds or Heats will also be contested today in the Men and Women 100, 200, 400 and 800 metres. The likes of Rupert Perry and Winston George will carry the Guyana flag against the Jamaicans in the men’s international 200m. The Women’s Long Jump final should be interesting when Natreena Hooper, Cindy
Serena Williams waves to fans after her victory over Andrea Petkovic, at the Rogers Cup tennis tournament Thursday. Aug. 13, 2015, in Toronto. (Frank Gunn/The Canadian Press via AP) Polona Hercog. Unseeded Belinda Bencic topped Sabine Lisicki 6-1, 16, 7-6 (3) to keep her run going. The 20th-ranked player from Switzerland opened the tournament with a victory over slumping Canadian Eugenie Bouchard and followed it with an upset win
over fifth-ranked Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark. Bencic will play the Ivanovic-Hercog winner. Also, 15th-seeded Sara Errani of Italy beat Belarus’ Victoria Azarenka 7-5, 6-3, and Ukraine’s Lesia Tsurenko beat Germany’s Carina Witthoeft 6-3, 6-4.
representative Rawle Toney. The games are scheduled for the Fruta Conquerors FC venue (Tucville playfield) today and tomorrow from 18:00hrs and 20:00hrs respectively. The organizers have said that the exchange visit forms part of a programme of developmental activities for the club during this August holiday period.
Fraser and Shantoba Bright take their mark. The second day tomorrow will be the big when Guyana’s best match up against their Caribbean counterparts from Jamaica, Trinidad, Bahamas and the United States. However, the most interesting race will be the women’s 100m when Jamaican Seidetha Palmer and the Bahamian Petra McDonald, both with personal bests of 11.6s meet. Which Guyanese athlete will spring a surprise is to be seen. George will go head-to-head against the Jamaicans in the Men’s 400m in another showpiece event on tomorrow. Meanwhile, The Police Sports Club will be under pressure to defend their overall title against a much improved Guyana Defence Force (GDF) side as well as a unified Linden front.
National Blind Cricketer laid to... From page 33 working with Giftland OfficeMax, he was diagnosed with Glaucoma at 18 and became very depressed. “He got into music and loved to dance and play sports and quickly snapped out of depression because of his involvement in these things,” Dr Sandiford said. His father, Godfrey Sandiford, who was too emotional to partake in most of
yesterday’s activities, said his son was set to get sponsorship from Giftland OfficeMax to jump start his weightlifting career and would run from Plaisance to Sheriff Street and then go to the Gym. He would also go for regular swims in the Atlantic Ocean. His grieving father described his third child as a fitness freak, adding that he is still in a state of shock after
receiving the heart-wrenching news. “I want to thank the Director of Sports who visited our home and kept me updated with everything and also Minister Roopnarine who also came to see the family,” Mr Sandiford remarked. Gordon, who has no children, leaves to morn his father, who also has Glaucoma but has weak sight, five brothers and two sisters.
Saturday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 31
Ansa McAl, Republic Bank, Ram and Warner appointed Steven Smith’s deputy McRae on board with opening of C3 Park Steven Smith bats in the nets, Northampton, August 12, 2015 © Getty Images
ESPNcricinfo - David Warner’s image makeover has been rewarded with his appointment as Steven Smith’s lieutenant, after the Cricket Australia board approved the recommendations of the selectors for the leadership team to succeed the retiring captain Michael Clarke. Smith had always been in line to be named as captain following his strong displays as stand-in for the injured Clarke during the home summer, but Warner has needed to do considerable work on his attitude on and off the field in recent times to grow into a role that will be pivotal in support. As the chairman of selectors Rod Marsh acknowledged, the 28-yearold Warner has come a long way since he was suspended on the previous Ashes tour for throwing a punch at Joe Root in a Birmingham bar. Alongside Smith, he has been Australia’s most prolific batsman in recent times, and has also this year toned down his self-appointed role as the team’s on-field “attack dog”, something he discussed with ESPNcricinfo in the West Indies. “We have reached a point in time where we’ve had to look at our leadership positions again with an eye to the future,” Marsh said. “David has matured and developed into an important senior figure in the Australian team. He has come a long way. “He had valuable experience captaining the Sunrisers in the IPL earlier this year and we are confident he will provide strong support to Steve as his deputy. We believe that he will respond well to the added responsibility of leadership.” Other contenders for the role included Mitchell Johnson, who had been appointed vice-captain of the
limited-overs team in the past, but the selectors were always likely to settle on Smith and Warner after the latter’s recent work to mature as a cricketer. He will still have some work ahead of him to prove that progress to the rest of the world, who know him as much for his abrasive manner as his explosive batting. Smith has emerged as Australia’s leader over the past 18 months, first becoming an integral member of the team in all formats and then showing his captaincy ability when Clarke was unavailable against India. He has also captained New South Wales to the 2014 Sheffield Shield and the Sydney Sixers to the 2012 Big Bash League title. “We have had a clear succession plan in place for the captaincy with Steve Smith gaining valuable experience leading the Australian Test Team while Michael Clarke was recovering from injury last season,” Marsh said. “When Michael made his decision to retire last week it was a very straightforward decision for us to nominate Steve as his successor. “He has big shoes to fill but everything about him suggests he is the right man for the job. At 26, he is a fine young man with extraordinary talent, excellent leadership qualities and a terrific temperament. He is highly regarded by the selectors and we congratulate him on being appointed to the role on an ongoing basis. He should be incredibly proud.” The CA chairman Wally Edwards said the nine directors had concurred with the selectors’ recommendations after some discussion at their August board meeting in Melbourne. “We have all seen Steve Smith’s clear (Continued on page 29)
On Saturday August 22 and Sunday 23, the newly revived C3 Recreational Park will be buzzing with activity to commemorate the Grand Opening of its newest community and family oriented Park and Cricket Ground. Ansa McAl under the Carib Beer and Mackeson Brands, Republic Bank Limited and Ram and Mc Rae have joined hands as sponsors to support this family oriented park which will be developed overtime. In brief comments the representatives from the agencies expressed their satisfaction and pleasure to have such a facility on the West Coast of Berbice and believe it will take youths off the road and keep them engaged in sports which will help to alleviate chances of crime in our society. At the same time, children who need access to internet services can use the wifi service that will be established at the Park. The venue which is located just off the Public Road in Cotton Tree has been abandoned for over 3 years with no activity since. The C3 Park will be used to host cricket matches and other functions and will be developed into a family oriented venue with Benabs, platforms, club house, paved walkway, wifi centre and a mini water park. On Saturday August 22, 2015 an Exposition and West Berbice Family Night event will be hosted. Patrons can expect to view and indulge in vending booths, International Bars, Food Court Dining, all games and
Vickram Singh, Secretary of C3 Recreational Park receives the sponsorship cheque from Republic Bank Representatives.
inflated rides for children, Cartoon characters like Barney, Dora, Diego and Sponge Bob and Mickey Mouse will be in the house to entertain the children. There will also be a live local band featuring Bunty Singh and other artiste alongside 71 Sounds System. Special entertainment packages will be in store for Kids from Tons of Fun party service. This will be the first time in West Berbice that an Expo and Family Night is promoted with a difference, with the children being the focus of interest. On the following day, Sunday, the atmosphere will be transformed into a party
like village for a grand cricket extravaganza featuring the Mighty Albion Cricket Club, Young Warriors, Western Berbice and East Coast Demerara. There will also be a feature game between Trophy Stall Girls and Karibee Rice Female Team. The games are set to commence at 9.00 hrs and much entertainment is expected. Fans can expect a big treat from the Mackeson and Carib Teams as there will be giveaways and a special party stand will be set up to ensure that the atmosphere is electric. Other sponsors on board so far are Romell Jagroop Construction Services,
Baljit Supermarket, Silver Lining TyreShop and Auto Rental, Berbice Bridge Incorporated, Trophy Stall of Bourda Market, Mohamed Shariff (Nanku) Horse Racing Stables and Zaheer Shariff Rice Farms amongst others. The price for entry at the exposition and family night is $300 for adults and children under 10 Free. Admission to the Cricket is free and all are encouraged to come out and support. For further information on vending spots (food, games and selling booths) at the expo, you can contact Vickram on 6114593 or Rex on 687-9009 or email c3recreationalpark@yahoo.com.
WI stave off Germany to end 7th by 2 points... From page 30 (444-53). Ransford Goodluck was the leading West Indian placing 66th of the 128 shooters who were rated; each team was made up of sixteen (16). Lennox Braithwaite ended in 90th place followed by Sherwin Felicien (96), Marlon King (98), Anderson Perry (99), Jason Wood (102), Dylan Fields (108), Mahendra Persaud (109), Ryan Sampson (113), Norris Gomez (115), Sigmund Douglas (117), Peter Persaud (120), Michael Perez (121), John Fraser (123), Leo Romalho (124) and Thomas Greenaway, 128. Head Coach and stand in Captain, Paul Slowe who had to step up following the departure of Non-Shooting Captain Major John Nelson due to unforeseen circumstances,
said he felt the team did fairly well in challenging conditions especially at 900 and 1000 yards. “We started very well today, we exceeded expectations at 800 yards but I am not sure what went wrong at 900 yards, we’ll have to analyze that. But you know 1000 yards is 1000 yards and you will always have difficulties there. I did observe that as the day progressed, conditions deteriorated.” Slowe, noted that it was the biggest stage in the world and it was good to have been there. “You could have seen from the Great Britain performance that they are just top quality shooters, we haven’t reached that level as yet but we are aiming to get there; it’s a work in progress.” He noted that one of the
challenges that West Indian shooters face is the lack of regular shooting as compared to the bigger nations. “The Great Britain team would have been practicing for one year now and being afforded the opportunity to
shoot as a team. We also named our team one year ago but couldn’t do as they did. All in all I think we did well.” Following is the stats for day 2 of the Palma Match as well as the Overall Individual Aggregate of the shooters and the team.
Page 32
Kaieteur News
Saturday August 15, 2015
President Granger among thousands expected at Guyana Cup horserace meet Hot and Spicy, Crown Vibes on board His Excellency President David Granger and a high powered team are expected to be among thousands that are expected to throng the Port Mourant (Big Yard) Turf Club for the Jumbo Jet/ Port Mourant Turf Club Guyana Cup horseracing extravaganza tomorrow. Over 100 horses have entered for the 10 races which have some $25M in cash and prizes on offer for the outstanding performers. Government recently waived the crossing fees for animals traversing the Berbice Bridge to attend the meet in a show of support. Many fans, including those home for the holidays are expected to form a massive audience in attendance. The entertainment expected promises to be exhilarating. The feature event has one of the most competitive fields ever assembled. Set as an A1 and lower race this year a star studded field will see 16 of the best racehorses down to gallop for a $3M winner’s purse and the Guyana Cup Trophy over 1800M. The field is led by Guyana A class champion Score’s Even of the Simple Royal stable and defending Guyana Cup Champion CP Got Even of the Elcock /Poonai stable as they continue their battle to see who is the boss of the track in Guyana. With Score event fully
rested and with CP Got Even in top form all eyes will be on the pair. However they will have their work cut out against the fearsome team led by the Jumbo Jet trio of Jack in My Style and the newly imported Street Prince and Giants Time, the ever improving Spit Fire and Princess She Not of the Shariff stable, Diplomatic Cat and the newly imported Kazi Azaria of the Bacchus Stable. Perfect Wind Strom and Goodwill Boy of the Jagdeo stable will also be there as well as the newly imported Three D of the Dookie stable. There is also the reputable Lady Budapest and Western Charm as well as Bridal Stone Corner and Run Nana Run stable mate of Score Even. The other events on the day’s programme are the Cofeature 1600M event for 3 yr old horses, bred and born in Guyana and the West Indies for a mouth watering $2M and trophy. There are two races for two year old horses, one for West Indies Bred animals for a winning take of $1.2M and trophy, while the second is for Guyana bred horses for a winner’s money of $400,000. The E class and lower event is for a take home of $1M and trophy, then there is a race for four year old West Indies bred animals for a winning take of $900,000 and trophy, the contest for horses
Youth development... From page 35 children to three basic aspects of the game, running, striking and receiving. Mr. Gilbert further said that plans are in train to introduce the children to various topics aimed at development in specific areas. These include techniques in resolving conflict situations amicably, issues on domestic violence and anger management. Mr. Gilbert further elaborated on expected outcomes from training techniques, “These techniques are player centered approaches that focus on growth maturation, development and trainability,” he said. Several other facilitators are expected to visit the venue and hold clinics on varying topic associated with football as well as personal development issues. These persons include Assistant National Coach, Wayne Dover, Joseph Wilson, Dennis Hunte and Compton Bishop. The coach
is confident that at the end of the programme participants would have gained valuable knowledge that would stand them in good stead in the pursuit of a wholesome life. According to Mr. Gilbert, “The aim is to foster holistic improvement in football and other meaningful skills while creating a passion for the game.” At the end of the sessions, participants will receive certificates, but even before that, two teams will be formulated from among them and they will compete in a football game. This will also allow organizers to assess the knowledge gained from the training sessions. Several sponsors have combined to make the programme a success including Mark Young of Suppligen Sports Desk, Express Shipping, Peter Phillips, Perry’s Trucking, NC Contracting Services, Guinness Bar, Tagman, the GFF and Chase Academy.
Founder of Hot and Spicy Ken Singh (left) hands over his package.
classified F3 has a first prize of $800,000 and trophy. In the G3 and lower race the winner will run away with $600,000 and trophy, the ‘I’ and lower race has $350,000 and trophy winning tag, while the event for unclassified animals has a take home of $150,000 and trophy. The number of sponsors continues to grow with Hot and Spicy, Rohan Auto Spares, Fazal Habibulla, Colin Elcock, Inshan Bacchus and the Shariff Racing stable among others coming on board. Several leading jockeys including some from overseas will be on show. Among them are: Panamanian born Trinidadian ace rider Nobel Abrego, Ronald Ali, Joshua Stephens, Prayven Badree, Kiran Razack, Brian Boodramsingh, Nela Mohammed, Nicholas Patrick and Michael Semple. Three season and experience Jamaicans are also here for the competition with Brian Blake, Andron Findley and Norman Malcolm adding more international flavor to the meet. The home base group that will be looking to defend their turf will be led by the likes of Paul Delph, Colin Ross, Rupert Ramnauth, Randolph Richmond, Yap Drepaul, Navin Ally, Rad Drepaul, Kevin Paul, Junior Semple, Andy Ramnauth, Mahendra Sukhoo, Michael Sancho, Prem Chandra, Winston Apadhu, Nacimento, Prem Chandra, Micheal Sancho, Junior Sookhan, Russel Chichester, Ajai Sansarran and John Rodriguez among others.
Fahaad Habibulla (right) of the Rising Sun Turf Club hands over their sponsorship to Rovin De Souza of the Guyana Cup organising committee, while (below) a representative of the Rohan Auto Spares does likewise.
The Crown Vibes sounds system has been contracted to provide musical entertainment for the day and after show, while Hot and Spicy will take care of the food on offer. Incentives will be available for the top Jockey and runner up, the top stable and champion trainer among others compliments of the organizers. Beverage Giants Banks DIH Limited, Digicel and most of the other sponsors will have giveaways and special packages all day on their products for those in attendance. Vehicles for sale are also expected to be on display. The event will be held under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority. The coordinator is Nasrudeen (Jumbo Jet) Mohamed. Show time is 12:00 hrs.
PetamaEnt./Motor Trend Softball Results &Fixtures The Petama Enterprise &Motor Trend sponsored softball tournament began on Sunday 9th August and several teams registered opening victories. In early results: at DCC Ground in the Masters category: Parika Defenders defeated Park Rangers by 6 wickets. Park Rangers made 135 all out off 19.2 overs. Mohamed Rafeek 44 and Danny Mohanram 42 led the scoring. D. Canan 2-13, A.Wazim2-23 and A Ali 2-28 were the top bowlers for Defenders who replied with 136 for 5 off 18.2 overs. M
Saffie 56 and Bacchus 38, led the chase, while Hanoman Singh took 2-26 for the loosers. Floodlights defeat Savage Masters by 21 runs. Floodlights 167-6 in 20 overs. Yunis Yusuf 39, Wayne Jones 32 not out, Imtiaz Mohamed 28.Wallack Joseph took 2-24. Savage made 146-7 off 20 overs. S Samaroo 31, Nadir Baksh 28 not out. Imtiaz Mohamed 3-27, Rabindra Singh 2-20. Regal Masters beat Fisherman by 9 wickets. Fisherman made 111-5 off 20 overs. R. Mohan 29, Ramo
Malone 19, David Harper 17. Falim Mohamed 2-8. Regal 115-2 off 11.4 overs. Rudolph Baker 71, Mahendra Hardyal 18. In the Open division, Fixtures for tomorrow will see: DCC Ground: Pitch 1: 9:30am-Floodlights Masters vs Fisherman Masters. 12:30pm-Floodlights Legends vs Savage Masters. Pitch 2: 9:30am-Brickery Super Stars vs Farm. 12:30pmHerstelling Raiders vs Princess Hotel. G.N.I.C Ground: 9:30am: Regal Masters vs Park Rangers.
Saturday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 33
Massy Group of Companies unveils lucrative package for Annual 10K RACE and 5K WALK
President of the AAG, Aubrey Hutson (3 L sitting) shares the head table with Chief Executive Officer, Deo Persaud (3 r sitting) and other bigwigs of the company. rd
rd
A
thletes are once again gearing up for action when the Athletic Association of Guyana (AAG) in collaboration with Massy Group of Companies stage the 5th edition of the Annual 10K race and 5K walk on September 6. Athletes will compete in several categories for lucrative prizes as the organizers attempt to retain the flavor and competitiveness of the race. Executives of the sponsoring company joined with those of the AAG at the Ruimveldt offices of the former group and unveiled the prizes for winners, runners up and
masters in several categories including juniors and open category. President of the AAG, Aubrey Hutson was joined by his assistant technical Officer, Yvonne October and officials of the Massy Group of Companies including Chief Executive Officer, Deo Persaud, Sports Coordinator, Rodnew McDonald, Julian Edmonds, Desmond Singh and another senior Manager, Debbie Baldeo. “This is but one of the initiatives in which we are involved to give back to a supportive public,” exhorted Mr. Persaud as he lauded the efforts of the organizers.
He further pointed out that his company is very active in community projects with schools even as he pointed out their input while working with those that are of the differently able clan. Mr. Persaud pointed out that the company was birthed in September and is currently in celebration mode. Speaking directly to the reason for his organization’s involvement Mr. Persaud said, “We value health and fitness and would like to continue along this line with our support of the AAA and its programmes.” Mr. Hutson was grateful for the
support and relayed as much to his benefactor. “The organizers (of the AAA) are extremely grateful for the continuance of such chivalry and I wish to extend heartfelt gratitude to the management of Massy Group of Companies,” he said. The AAG boss informed that the impending race was the first of a list of similar events which will climax with the highly anticipated South American 10K event in November. The AAG President informed that his executives have given a thought for those aged athletes who compete under adverse
circumstances. He said that apart from the usual trophy the veterans will also receive a special surprise gift. He declined from disclosing the nature of the prize. “We are happy to continue working with the Massy Group of Companies and look forward to a competitive event,” concluded Mr. Hutson. To p m a r a t h o n r u n n e r , Cleveland Thomas, was also at the forum and expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors on behalf of his colleagues. “We are currently engaged in earnest preparations and can hardly wait for competition day,” said the marathon runner.
National Blind Cricketer laid to rest Regional 40-over tourney to be renamed Gordon Sandiford Comp. By Sean Devers At a packed St Paul’s Anglican Church in Sparendaam, 28-year-old National Blind Cricketer the late Gordon Alvin Sandiford was given an emotional send off to the great beyond yesterday after his body was taken to his home in Plaisance East Coast Demerara for viewing. The large congregation included President of the West Indies Cricket Council for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Anthony Arvil, who is also Executive Director of St Lucia Blind Welfare, Vice-President of the Guyana Blind Cricket Association Cecil Morris, two representatives from the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the
honorable Mrs. Volda Lawrence, Minister of Social Protection, listened to a moving sermon by Father Malcom Dick-Grant. The funeral was organised by Director of Sports Christopher Jones who was unavoidably absent because he had to depart for Suriname on Thursday and it w a s s o m e w h a t disappointing that no official from the Guyana Cricket Board was present yesterday. The Minister told the church that Gordon was not defined or confined by his lack of sight and remembered that two days before the team departed for the regional Blind cricket tournament in St Lucia where Gordon met his demise, the Cricketer, who also has recorded music and
is a Weight lifter, confidently marched into her office to ask for sponsorship for the trip. “The girls at the ministry were shocked that he had passed away which proves the saying that tomorrow is promised to no one,” the Minister, who
The late Gordon Sandiford’s Hearse goes through a ‘cane salute’ by his team mates.
represented the Guyana Government and Minister Rupert Roopnarine, added. An emotional Morris broke down in tears during his heart-tugging tribute in which he said the team, after counseling, played their next game which was scheduled
two days after Gordon met his death. St Lucian Arvil, paid glowing tributes and brought messages from the Presidents of the Regional and International Blind Cricket Associations. He disclosed that from next year
the Regional 40-over Blind Cricket tournament will be called the ‘Gordon Sandiford 40-over tournament’. Dr Uon Sandiford, Gordon’s uncle, gave the Eulogy, stating the Gordon had many interests but while (Continued on page 30)
Page 34
Kaieteur News
Saturday August 15, 2015
Palma Match - World Championship of Long Range Rifle Shooting
WI stave off Germany to end 7th by 2 points; Goodluck is top Ind. at 66th of 128 shooters By Franklin Wilson at Camp Perry, Ohio, USA compliments of NAMILCO, Ringbang, Fazias Collection, Crown Mining Supply and Queensway The West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) contesting the Palma Match, the World Championship of Long Range Rifle Shooting, had to dig deep to end seventh of the eight teams when the most prestigious match in the shooting world concluded yesterday at Name Ransford Goodluck Lennox Braithwaite Sherwin Felicen Marlon King Anderson Perry Jason Wood Dylan Fields Mahendra Persaud Ryan Sampson Norris Gomez Sigmund Douglas Peter Persaud Michael Perez John Fraser Leo Romalho Tommy Greenaway Total
Camp Perry, Ohio, USA. Three West Indians on the day shot a possible, all at 800. Lennox Braithwaite (75-5), Jason Wood (75-8) his second back to back and Ransford Goodluck (75-9) also back to back. Great Britain which enjoyed a 49-point lead over second placed USA going into yesterday’s final day
800 75-9 75-5 73-6 74-7 73-5 75-8 73-5 74-8 74-3 75-4 74-3 73-6 74-6 72-4 69-6 70-4 1173-89
900 74-4 73-9 69-5 72-7 71-4 72-4 71-3 74-5 68-2 68-4 71-5 68-2 68-1 68-4 64-4 62-0 1113-63
1000 71-8 66-3 67-1 60-3 65-4 64-1 66-4 65-3 63-4 65-4 66-1 66-4 62-1 58-0 67-4 58-1 1029-46
increased that lead to easily take the championship by tallying a total of 7106 points and 825 Vs to be crowned world champs following up their triumph in the America Match last week. The USA ended second with 7034 points and 725 Vs, followed by South Africa 7010-705; Australia 6983738; New Zealand 6954Ind. Agg. 220-21 214-17 209-12 206-17 209-13 211-13 210-12 213-16 205-09 208-12 211-09 207-12 204-08 198-08 200-14 190-05 3315.198
Overall (436-42) (427-34) (425-25) (424-36) (424-32) (422-31) (418-20) (417-26) (413-20) (412-23) (411-19) (406-25) (406-19) (402-24) (401-23) (370-11) (6614-410)
711; Canada 6856-634; West Indies 6614-410 and Germany 6612-440. The Caribbean side held a slim 5-point advantage over the German’s going into yesterday’s second and final day. After the first range (800 yards) the Germans shot 1177-105 to the WI’s 117389. In contrast to the opening day which saw a much bigger margin at this range, the Caribbean side improved tremendously to stay within striking distance. The swirling winds which tested the mettle of all the countries of the opening day was also the order of the day, yesterday. Overall Country Scores Great Britain 7106-825 USA 7034-725 South Africa 7010-705 Australia 6983-738 New Zealand 6954-711 Canada 6856-634 West Indies 6614-410 Germany 6612-440
Ransford Goodluck, West Indies’ leading individual marksman in the Palma Match.
At the penultimate range, 900 yards, the Germans turned the tables of the West Indies by accumulating a score of 1133-73 to the WI’ 1113-63. The six-nation WI team now found themselves trailing the German’s by 19 points going to the final and difficult 1000 yards. While it was not a problem for the established and experienced Britain and a few of the other big nations to negotiate with the former already cementing their status as the best in the
world, it was down to a fierce battle at the bottom of the table between the West Indians and Germans. Shooters and other officials from both teams were seen checking each other’s scoreboard after each competitor would have completed 15 rounds, as the tension rose in the windy, sunny, yet chilly conditions. This range (1000) was always going to be a challenge for the competing nations based on what transpired on day one. The British were able to better their first day performance and as they hit the target with much better accuracy. They did not drop a single point at the 800 range achieving the maximum 1200 like Australia. When the final shot was fired, the West Indies like they did on day one, proved better at this range by accumulating 1029-46 to Germany’s 1008-43 to take the 7th place avoiding a bottom place finish. It was the West Indies’ best performance on the world stage. In the top 10 Overall shooters, Great Britain had the top six with Toby Raincock winning with a phenomenal overall score of 449-55 dropping just a single point in the six ranges shot. He was followed by Jon Underwood (447-49), David Luckman (446-57), Jon Tapster (446-57), Tom Rylands (445-54), Tom Drysdale (445-48), USA’s John Whidden (445-45), Great Britain’s Parag Patel (444-62), Australia’s Jim Bailey (444-54), and New Zealand’s Bradley Palatchie (Continued on page 31)
Saturday August 15, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 35
Youth development in focus as GFCA hosts youth clinic/developmental camp
Sampson Gilbert (extreme r) and Mark Young (extreme l) join the group of jubilant children for a photo opportunity during a break in training sessions yesterday afternoon.
T
he August holiday period is the longest of the school breaks and usually present lots of spare time for children. For this reason, parents, anxious to provide productive activity for their
children, would enroll them in productive activities that not only soaks up their spare time but also aids in their development outside of the academic realms. It is with such ideas in mind that the Guyana
Football Coaches Association organized a youth clinic/developmental camp to foster all round development of youths, while keeping them on the safe side of the law. Activities got underway at
the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Ground, Carifesta Avenue, on August 10 and will culminate August 21 next. Football Coach Sampson Gilbert is in charge of the sessions and he has more than 50 children
under his tutelage. When Kaieteur Sport visited the venue yesterday afternoon, Mr. Gilbert was engaged with the youngsters, taking them through their paces on the field. He said that the early
stages of the programme were highly successful and already the children were taken on an escorted field trip to the National Museum. He said that the early period of the clinic exposed the (Continued on page 32)
t r o Sp
Boyce/Jefford Classic VI races off today in Linden
Trinidad’s Dawnel Collymore (centre) (800m, 1500m) and Ashton Gill (left) (800m) will also compete here this weekend. Coach, Kelvin Nancoo shares the moment.
Jamaicans athletes from left, Keno Burell (400m), their Coach, Seidatha Palmer (100, 200m) and Nicholas Maitland (400m) will compete in Linden this weekend.
Palma Match - World Championship of Long Range Rifle Shooting
WI stave off Germany to end 7th by 2 points; Goodluck is top Ind. at 66th of 128 shooters Palma Match and world champions, Great Britain following victory yesterday at Camp Perry, Ohio, USA.
The Palma Trophy
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