Wednesday December 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news... Letters... Where your views make the news
With more employers while NIS contributions going down DEAR EDITOR, It would appear to have been momentous news when the NIS announced recently its accessibility online, by its contributors. For those who are its clients, as well as interested observers, it has long been a concern why such an institution was not more proactive, particularly after a report came out from a very expensive commission appointed by the last administration some eight years ago, and which pronounced in some detail, on the improvements necessary for the structure, operations, and management of this institution. Hopefully this advance was at the behest of the new board, if in fact there is one. What continues to be a concern, however, is the inexplicable reduction in contributions, despite the reported and visible increase in the number of employees, and moreso foreign investors, so many of whom operate in the hinterland (in more than literal terms).
In this regard one recommendation coming out of the aforementioned commission’s report was based on a model long adopted by the NIS in Barbados – by which it was possible for any employee to complete a pro forma document online, setting out the latter ’s employment particulars. The information provided, if deemed in order, would facilitate a visit by the NIS to the relevant employer to verify the situation. This procedure took the initiative out of the discretion of the reluctant employer, who could be appropriately encouraged to effect registration. One hopes that in the circumstances of the current governance environment, those reluctant would desist from seeking refuge in the old ‘hinterland’, and would cooperate with a more assertive NIS management – in the interest of its sustainability, and the welfare of their employees. E.B. John
Good Governance is essential for the success of export-led growth
DEAR EDITOR, I would be grateful if you published the following letter in your Letter columns. Thank you. I wish to thank Ganga Ramdas for his interest in my recommendation of export-led growth as a solution for developing countries. In short, he posits that exportled growth, a ‘pie-in-the-skymethodology,’ has failed Guyana, pointing further that there is an inherent inefficiency in it being aligned with sales revenue maximization while ignoring costs. He broaches the usefulness of a strategic plan and proposes strict adherence to “results-based” financing for education and health as a means of attracting foreign investment into sectors other than our natural resources. Ramdas also spoke to the failed attempts at getting foreign direct investment to make a meaningful contribution to Guyana’s economic development, surprisingly borrows from the
World Bank website ideas which he considers relevant to using exports as a driver of economic development, and summarizes in his last paragraph that ‘Guyana’s export-led economic model has left much to be desired.’ My first observation here is that we shy away from strict definitions of models and instead make use of the ideas which underpin these models. Economists would generally be quick to point out that economic models are a simplification of real world scenarios, and are intent on promoting a specific idea or ideas. The principal idea behind the export-led model was that it served to generate muchneeded foreign currency, which probably stands among the priorities of our policy goals. Further, to the extent that goods and services can in fact be successfully produced and exported using this idea, then our products would be cost competitive globally, and this is justification enough for
efforts to be made in this direction. It is noteworthy here that discussions on our economic prospects are hardly the sole domain of economists, but must in fact embrace all other professionals, from our business leaders to our doctors, lawyers, educators and religious leaders, all of whom will contribute meaningfully to the successful promotion and development of the institutional pillars our economy. In particular, the leaders across our various sectors need to understand the role their sectors/institutions play in promoting economic development. I had stated in the letter to which Ramdas refers that sound governance, institutional and regulatory systems were among the conditions necessary and integral to the success of the application of export-led growth generally. Also critical to its success were strong public/private
Pastor advocates brotherhood of ex-convicts DEAR EDITOR, While studying in the USA I wrote a Lecture Series that the Indiana Department of Corrections now use in their prisons and correctional facilities. In one of the lessons I noted that ex-offenders need a “Brotherhood,” a ‘State of Belonging’. I wrote the lecture series - which is now a work book – while serving as a Prison Chaplain in the State of Indiana. The course is based on extensive research and also as a result of my own experience. The lectures were written in 2007, however, the more
time elapses the more justified I feel for having written the book, even as I see what is happening here in Guyana, and especially among the offender community. We have a recidivism rate of 7580%, these offenders are between the ages of 18-45. Additionally, most of those who recidivate, do so two or more times. So what we have is 3/4 of our prison population going in-and-out of prison, within months of their release. Yet we have absolutely no programs in place to assist this problematic clientele. In my lecture series I
noted that there was need for the brotherhood of exoffenders. This is based on what obtains behind the walls of the prison. While incarcerated, packs, groups and gangs are formed to aid in the survival of the inmate. It is an established fact within the prison population that everyone needs someone to look out for him/her. The need is so great that often sometimes sexual favors and other illegal acts are solicited to guarantee the needed protection. Hardly anyone incarcerated for any
protracted length of time goes through a prison sentence without forming allegiances with some subset of his/her fellow prisoners. This default survival tactic then forms part of the mental psyche of the prisoner. Over time it becomes a part of the inherent behavior of the inmate; a need for a sense of belonging. It is assessed as one of the modus operandi of those incarcerated, and forms part of what is commonly termed the “prisoner mentality.” When the ex-offender leaves prison that bonding
and the need for support and protection does not immediately cease. So the default behavior of the released individual is to go in search of his/her buddies. Because Guyana does not have a formal Ex-offender Rehabilitation Program, there are no healthy ways for the individual with the “prisoner Continued on page 29
partnerships which understood and shared the focus and goals of this idea. It is of course easy to miss the point that ‘institutional’ speaks to all the institutions which underpin investment and economic growth and development, covering that of security, education, health and all the other regulatory institutions necessary for the smooth functioning of businesses, from the deeds registry to the stock market. My objective for these broad criteria was, in addition to building confidence in our economy, to establish a common platform where investment in all sectors with the objective of generating exports would be equally considered, not just our natural resources. While I strongly support and advocate domestic ownership and investments, it is quite obvious that many sectors and industries could benefit significantly from investment and technology transfers which would accrue from foreign direct investment. All of this translates into the strengthening of our economic foundation with accompanying strides in our economic welfare. Finally, efforts at utilizing the concept of export-led growth for Guyana should necessarily be driven by government, which should arrive at such a decision through consultation and consensus. Craig Sylvester
Wednesday November 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
Trinidad to host UN strategic planning retreat PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — A strategic planning retreat (SPR) for the UN Multi Country Sustainable Development Framework (UN MSDF) for the Caribbean will be held on Thursday in Trinidad. The keynote address will be delivered by the minister of planning and development,
government of Trinidad and Tobago, Camille Robinson-Regis. The purpose of the SPR is to present the synthesized results of the national consultations that were held across the Caribbean, including in Trinidad and Tobago. The event will allow experts to work together to finalize the strategic priorities and expected
Cuba imposes travel permit for doctors to limit brain drain HAVANA – The Cuban government says it is re-imposing a hated travel permit requirement on many doctors, requiring them to get permission to leave the country in an attempt to counter a brain drain that it publicly blames on the United States. It is the first major reverse in Cuba’s policy of allowing unrestricted travel for its citizens, put in place in 2012 as President Raul Castro allowed new freedoms as part of a broad set of social and economic reforms. The government announced on the front page of state media yesterday that doctors in specialties that
have been drained by largescale emigration in recent years will now be required to get permission from Health Ministry officials in order to leave the country. (AP)
outcomes which will guide the further development of the UN MSDF. This process will provide further support to governments in implementing the S.A.M.O.A (SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action) pathway commitments, while addressing the challenges of Caribbean Small Island Developing States in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. To date, national consultations have been held in Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, Belize, Barbados, the nine OECS countries and overseas territories, and Trinidad and Tobago to identify the common country priorities for the UN MSDF. (Caribbean News)
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday November 02, 2015
Princess Hotel employee Mystery man paid $11M for fired for exposing appalling GINA newspaper in NY working conditions
By Abena Rockcliffe Sentiments expressed by new Director of the Government Information Agency (GINA), Beverley Alert give reason as to why her predecessor, Neaz Subhan refused to let out information relating to the financing of “The Guyanese”. “The Guyanese” was a newspaper produced by GINA, but was printed and circulated in the United States of America. Yesterday, Alert told Kaieteur News that she inherited GINA in serious debt. She pointed to the fact that the entity owes the Guyana Chronicle just about $70M and said that instead of incurring additional expenses, she decided to discontinue publication of the newspaper. Alert said that there was a shortage of adequate checks and balances for the venture which has proved costly. That, she said, was another factor that influenced her decision to shut things down on that end. Alert said that while records show the amount of money paid for the newspaper to be printed, there is no system to verify product for expenditure. “There was nothing in place to show that you were paying X and got Y. As it is, we cannot do that sort of verification.” Alert said that there is record to show that US$3,060 (G$612,000) was wired fortnightly – for a total of 18 editions - to an individual (name given) for the newspaper. The full amount was US$55,080 (G$11,016,000) That individual is not at-
- She alleges
Former Information Liaison to the President, Kwame McCoy.
Former GINA Director, Neaz Subhan
tached to any entity. The Director explained that there is no GINA representative in New York who was conducting business for the agency. “The money was transferred to an individual, not a company or a consulate.” This Alert found to be “quite strange”. She said that she viewed the procedure for the publication to be unofficial in this regard. Alert said that even as the newspaper is cancelled, GINA still sees the need to keep the Diaspora informed, so the agency is looking to build its online presence. The Director said that GINA is looking to build the database of persons subscribing and to expand its mailing list. “We are becoming more aggressive on Facebook. It’s not where I want it to be, but it is a work in progress.” She said that Subhan, in the handing over, gave her a list of the amount published and where it was to be distributed. She asserted, “That was given, but I was dissatis-
fied with the financial aspect of it, more needs to be proven. Before elections, questions were raised about the money spent by GINA to produce the newspaper for circulation in New York, but the state-owned entity remained silent on the cost. Instead, GINA set about to deflect the issue by accusing Kaieteur News of telling lies. Leader of Alliance of Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan, who is now also the Minister of Public Security, had raised questions about the publication of the fortnightly newspaper. Ramjattan had condemned the fact that taxpayers were made to pay for a newspaper that carried nothing but praise for the People’s Progressive Party government. He also raised questions over spending by GINA’s Head, Neaz Subhan, and former government official, Kwame McCoy. Subhan had said that he would not speak to Kaieteur News about “The Guyanese” as it was an internal matter.”
Education Ministry to establish Central counseling body Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, recently stated his intent to establish a central counseling body which will see the implementation of trained counselors in schools across the country. The Minister said that he has already begun to work on amendments for the legislation for the provision of counselors in schools, as it is something he feels very strongly about. This initiative, he said, will hopefully take corporal punishment completely out of the
picture. Dr Roopnaraine said that the rampant violence in society is finding its way into the school system. As such, there is an urgent need for counselors within these schools to help create an environment of learning. He said that only through regular and professional counseling can the issue of violence in schools be adequately tackled. While admitting that such a move is a big one, he stated that it is a necessary and good step. He expressed his unhap-
piness with the number of qualified counselors currently employed in the school system given that the student to counselor ratio is too high. One of the major deterrents to this initiative, said Dr Roopnaraine, is that a lot of schools do not have space for a private counseling office. With this in mind, the Minister stated that all new schools built will have a space for private counseling. The Ministry is currently looking at existing schools to see how best they can provide space for the counselors.
Joan Bradt thought she was making life easier for herself and others working at Princess Hotel and Casino when she, in the company of other colleagues, approached Minister with responsibility for Labour, Simona Broomes, and apprised her of the less than encouraging working conditions at the entity. Little did she know that was probably the worst thing she could have done in the eyes of her employers. Bradt, the mother of a toddler, was fired yesterday. The young woman was given no reason as to why her service was terminated. In fact, she refused to sign a termination letter handed to her and another document that stated she was given just over $100,000 severance. Bradt said that she asked for at least one reason why she was being sent off as a prerequisite for her to sign the document, but no reason was offered. None of the documents handed to her, including her termination, reflected any reason why she was fired. This coming about a month after she complained to the Ministry, Bradt believes that she was fired for exercising her right. As the tears flowed down her cheeks, Bradt, who was visibly trying to regain her composure said, “I know I would not get back my job. But I want some kind of justice to come out of this.” She said that she felt as if she was being penalized for asking for basic working rights. Bradt recalled an incident when a manager, name given as Tuna, braced against her and shouted in her face as he frowned upon her delayed attendance to a table. She said that to call them, the managers usually make the sounds used to call dogs. Bradt worked at Princess for about three years. She said, “It was not always like that bad but since these new set of managers came,
things really get bad. And they were upset we went to Minister Broomes.” She said that, she and the other employees were trying “very hard to be on our Ps and our Qs because we knew they de vex.” She explained that she felt that she was given the brunt of the punishment for this action, “because my picture was featured, the other girls were not recognized.” The way the picture was taken, the other girls’ identities were protected but Bradt’s profile was shown in the photo. “It is sad that these people are allowed to come to our shores and treat our women this way, it is ridiculous. They should have to follow the same labour laws that local businesses follow. They are especially disrespectful to women. She recounted an incident involving a man who was sent home because a manager asked him to remove a table and he told the manager “when the rain done.” Bradt said that sexual harassment simmered since the story went public about a senior official who was accused of this against a junior employee. “But nothing came out of that really. The police came but then they end up eating with them managers and everything die down. I hope the same thing do not happen again. A manager, Ozgur, was contacted last evening for a comment on the story. However, he blatantly refused. Exploitation, adverse working conditions and physical assault were among the plethora of complaints that employees had brought to Minister Broomes’ attention. About a month ago, Broomes dispatched a team
to investigate the allegations. A number of employees from the International Hotel and Casino in recent days have been lodging complaints with the Ministry over the now seemingly unbearable situation. Among some of the complaints were the erratic manner which some employees are being paid, compounded with the fact that overtime and other allowances are not paid. According to one of the employees, the company is in the habit of sometimes paying some of the staff every other month and employees are forced to work beyond the stipulated minimum working hours per week. The Minister said that this was unacceptable and would not be condoned, as it constitutes a violation of Guyana’s labour laws. The Minister was also presented with a number of testimonials signed by other employees at the International Hotel complaining of maltreatment – some complained of physical assault. Some of those lodging complaints claimed that they were sometimes shoved, while being ordered to attend to the tables of certain customers. Broomes had dispatched a team to the hotel to investigate the alleged breaches immediately, with a view to taking affirmative action should the allegations prove true. The Minister said, “I am not going to have this one run over, I am going to deal with this one.”
Wednesday December 02, 2015
The NICIL dilemma… On one hand, the APNU+AFC administration is faced with the decision to shut down the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Inc. (NICIL), as it had lobbied for innumerable times when it served in the Opposition. On the other, the Government could choose to go back on its promise to the nation and keep the entity it deemed to be at the heart of some of the most corrupt deals in Guyana’s history. Either way, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo said that government has found itself between a rock and a hard place. He opined that regardless of what decision it chooses, the David Grangerled administration would be placed in an embarrassing light in the eyes of the nation. Government had launched an investigation into NICIL and the report has been completed over a month
Kaieteur News
Govt. has found itself between a rock and a hard place — Opposition Leader
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo now. Cabinet is yet to see its findings hence the green light is still to be given for it to be made public. Nevertheless, the report recommends that NICIL be closed down and a small department be opened under the Ministry of Finance, if
government deems it necessary. But Finance Minister Winston Jordan does not necessarily share this view. In fact, he insisted in a recent interview with Kaieteur News that NICIL as a state-owned company is essential. Jordan said, “Listen, NICIL is necessary. You cannot shut down the entity just like that or do away with it, because it was established to serve a particular purpose. Granted, NICIL needs to be restructured, but I would emphasise again that it is a necessary entity. The decision to be taken on NICIL has to be approved by Cabinet in any case, so I cannot say to you that I agree with this recommendation or I disagree.” The Opposition Leader holds a similar position. He said, “I think that the
Dem boys seh...
De fat crook jumping ship De hammer fall pun de nail. Dem boys hear from Govt people fuss thing this morning after dem read wha dem boys seh yesterday. Dem boys did seh that Soulja Bai and he Govt slow to act although he mek all dem campaign promises fuh jail Jagdeo and he kavakamites. De first man who going to prison is de fat crook who execute all de plan fuh dem dishonest act. He hear he name calling so he done book ticket fuh he and he family. He beating out before Christmas. De man running from pepper pot and garlic pork plus pickle onion and black
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cake. Dem boys seh he love dem things so when he running and lef de things he love in life he tun a rat like Bar Rat and jumping ship. De wine bar gun tun a cool down cart; plus he gun lef a big portion of he money in de hand and foot insurance. Dem boys hear he deputy crying every day till she can’t even see she pickney. De Waterfalls boss man still promise to mek a special prison fuh dem. Dem gun join de bandit who get shot in he two eye and tun blind when he been pun a robbery at Mahaicony. Dem boys seh
that he can’t even see he way much less de money he thief. De fat crook and Jagdeo would see de money but dem can’t touch it or enjoy it. When de blind bandit get shoot and captured he seh he went and drop off a young thing. When dem boys question him, he don’t know she name or she address. But he know he blind. Dem boys hope and pray that Jagdeo don’t tell de judge when de court questioning him about his accumulated wealth that he was dropping home Babbie. Talk half and wish dem don’t enjoy dem wealth.
government needs to probably keep NICIL. You will see that all of the audited reports of the company gave it a clean bill of health. I believe that when you would have seen the so-called forensic audit and the response by NICIL, you would also conclude that NICIL played a very useful role in Guyana’s development and it acted in transparent manner.” Jagdeo claimed that NICIL was “demonized” by a private vendetta by some newspapers and by the then political opposition. “Almost every single day there would be some fabrication of a story on NICIL in the papers. They portrayed it as being corrupt.
The government when it was in opposition made a big issue about closing NICIL down and said that NICIL is not necessary. They find themselves today in a dilemma. Either they admit that they were wrong and that they do need to keep NICIL, or close it and fulfill their
promise to the people to do so,” expressed the former President. Since the launch of a forensic audit into the operations of NICIL, several glaring breaches of the country’s financial regulations have been unearthed.
$5,000 bail for City Constable A police officer has found himself in trouble after allegedly asking one of his colleagues to perform oral sex on him. City Police, Michael Kansinally, 35, denied a charge which stated that on November 30, at Georgetown, he asked a fellow constable to perform the sexual act on him. He was released on $5,000 bail by City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, after his appearance in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts yesterday. Kansinally of Lot 174 Lodge Housing Scheme, Georgetown will return to court on January 12, before Magistrate Dylon Bess.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 02, 2015
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Sorry seems to be the hardest word That’s the title of one of Elton John’s greatest hits. It is one of my favourite John songs. There are two lines that go like this; “What do I say when it’s all over. And sorry seems to be the hardest word.” It’s all over for the PPP, but they march on under the banner of the infamous triumvirate – Jagdeo, Te i x e i r a a n d R o h e e . Ramotar fires off salvoes from his own corner where he seems to be permanently cocooned. Luncheon takes to the airwaves to have his say over a radio station owned by the PPP. Others seek refuge in the letter pages of the Kaieteur News and Stabroek News. Now here is a funny little story about disrespect inside the PPP. A month ago, Jagdeo advocated a boycott of the Kaieteur News. But
Jagdeo’s own underlings ignore him. Pick up the KN on any day and you will find a letter from a PPP leader. The l i s t i s l o n g – R a m o t a r, Nandlall, Manickchand, Hydar Ally, Harry Gill, Ramson Junior among others. Recently Manickchand published an attack on the Ministry of Education. Ramotar sent off to KN his response to Tony Vieira. And the list goes on. Is there a creeping disrespect for Jagdeo inside the Champion’s own party? How could you urge Guyanese to stay away from buying the Kaieteur News, but your own party leadership seeks the ventilation of their views in that very newspaper? But on a more substantial issue – has any PPP leader looked back since 1992 and admitted after the loss of power in May 2015 that he/
she was truly sorry for a terrible decision? The media scene is dominated by PPP press conferences. There is a PPP press conference each week, and in between there are the occasional one or two. In each press meeting, the policies of APNU-AFC are derogated. Recently, Jagdeo spoke of corruption behind the Fedders Lloyd contract. Rohee wants an ethnic breakdown of GECOM employees; Teixeira complains that computers were removed from the former Office of the Opposition which she says belong to the new Leader of the Opposition. A commentator cannot keep up with the PPP tirade against the six-monthold government So are we to expect an apology soon from one of these Freedom House press briefings on some act or error or wrong turn or wrong
policy of the PPP since 1992? Was it right to share out a dozen radio licences just before Jagdeo demitted office in 2011 and not even one went to an independent entity? Even if the PPP Government had made up its mind against Kaieteur News’ application, what about the applications from the Stabroek News and Enrico Woolford? Now that it is in opposition and it sees a million things wrong with the governance style and policies of the new regime, does the PPP recognize any of its mistakes? Not even one? Can the people who hold those weekly press conferences at Freedom House tell the nation if it was right for Linden to have transmission from one station only - NCN? In all the years the PPP was in power, the people of Linden never saw the programmes of channel 9 and those informative interviews
with inspirational Guyanese. The people of Linden never got to see “Mitta” Sharma on CNS channel 6. Yet the Freedom House brigade can hold weekly press briefings to tell this nation all that is going wrong with the APNU-AFC Government and not one reflection of regrets from any section of the PPP’s hierarchy. Will the PPP apologize for putting five PPP Parliamentarians on the Council of the University? Would the PPP accept it as normal for the current UG Council to have five APNUAFC Parliamentarians? Can’t someone in the PPP top bracket say to the Guyanese people that looking back at what we did at UG, there were mistakes? Why is sorry such a hard word to say? Will we hear it in the coming year? I doubt it. Not from the PPP. There are two attitudes that are permanent
Frederick Kissoon encrustations on the walls of the collective mind of the PPP. One is that they will never say sorry. Once that is done, the royal, messianic, fortress will come tumbling down. For every PPP leader, the party has done the right thing, but the mischievous critics blame them wrongfully. Every PPP leader is afraid to admit to mistakes, because in doing so it exposes them as ordinary people. The second sin is that the PPP will never allow one person, one vote, in its membership to elect its leader. That is not in the nature of the PPP. That will never happen.
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
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PPP castigates Ministry of Citizenship The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has raised concerns about the Ministry of Citizenship’s internal structure and the fact that its long standing General Registrar has gone on leave. The party is of the view that the ministry is developing a sinister agenda designed to manipulate voters’ list. It has also blasted the government for failing to tender for the consultancy spearheading the legislative review of the Registration of Births and Deaths Act. This review is being undertaken by Triumph International Group under the auspices of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). This was communicated during the PPP press conference at Freedom House on Monday. According to Rohee, when he left office as Minister of Home Affairs, he left behind a competent team at the GRO. He lauded the work of Registrar General of the GRO, Greta McDonald. She is currently on leave but he expressed concern about the “internal arrangements” at the GRO. “McDonald did a formidable job bringing the GRO technologically and otherwise to a level at which it never was up to when the PNC left it,” Rohee declared. “Felix must tell the nation why he got rid of such a competent woman of worth, who did so much to make the GRO comparable in delivery of service with any other civil registry in any other CARICOM country.” Rohee stated that McDonald put systems in place to minimize corrupt practices at the GRO, including a buffer between staff members and members of the public. This buffer, the postal services, was described as working well. “Felix had announced that approximately 4,000 birth records are to be entered daily from data which is to be taken from the current paper-based birth and death certificates. (He also announced that it) will be entered into a Civil
PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee Events Registration System (CERS) which is intended to produce electronic birth and death certificates.” Rohee stated that Felix had further announced that “over three million birth, marriage and death records are to be computerized.” He described the millions of birth registration records as worrying. “It is not clear whether the CERS is the same system that the PPP/C administration was aiming to put in place. Felix must clarify whether this is so or not.” At this point, Rohee launched into an invective. He claimed that “word has it that the Department of Citizenship was created to reintroduce efforts by the PNC to control the births and deaths registration process
with a view to manipulating the voters’ list by keeping the name of dead persons on the list of electors and by transferring names of underage persons from the birth register to the preliminary voters’ list.” When asked to clarify where he got such information from, Rohee declined to specify. However he expressed reservations that Felix had established the linkage between birth certificates and elections. The General Secretary also insinuated that new recruits at the GRO were suspect. UNICEF project It was announced in September that UNICEF would be leading an education plan that will support the drive to universal birth registration. It was also announced that the Government and UNICEF would partner to review the legislation affecting birth registration and improve it. The project was expected to be rolled out in 2016, with the first stage lasting for two years. The plan of action is also expected to include decentralizing services, improving access to efficient and quality services, budget and expenditure. Patrick Triumph, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Triumph International Group, will be taking a leading role in the review. Rohee expressed reservations about the fact
Puruni Landing murder suspect captured Despite the vastness of Guyana’s interior, police there were able to nab the suspect in the murder of a gold miner that occurred two weeks ago. Assistant Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine, who is holding the portfolio of head of the Criminal Investigations Department (Crime Chief) in the absence of Senior Superintendent Wendell Blanhum, confirmed yesterday that the 22-year- old suspect in the murder of Shanti Solomon was arrested by police on Monday at Piara Landing. Solomon, 33, of New Amsterdam, Berbice, was knifed to death at Puruni landing on November 23, last. The suspect who hails from the East Coast of Demerara had fled the area and remained at large until police, acting on information received, captured him at Piara. He is expected to be brought to the city where he will be passed through the court on a charge of murder.
-- claims no tender process used for hiring consultant
Back in September, at the announcement of the law review; from left Winston Felix, Minister of Citizenship; UNICEF country representative Marianne Flach and Patrick Triumph, CEO of Triumph International Group. that no tendering process was observed. Asked whether he did not believe in the efficiency of UNICEF safeguards, Rohee
stated that he merely wanted to highlight an issue of concern. Government had announced its aim to increase
birth registration to 100 percent, noting that the registration rate currently stands at between 89 and 92 percent.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Increased challenges likely as commodity prices soften There are subtle global events that have the potential to negatively impact the economies of the Caribbean Region. And Finance Minister Winston Jordan asserts that in the challenging international economic environment, the outlook for CARICOM is mixed. Jordan said recently that the major forces that will drive the performance of the region include commodity price trends, a stronger US economy and related exchange and interest rate dynamics. The Finance Minister said that given the state of the world economy at this junction, “Commodity-based producers, including natural resources-based producers such as Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago, are expected to face increased challenges as commodity prices soften while the services-based economies rebound based on improved tourism outturns and lower fuel costs.” He added, “The average rate of economic growth in the region improved from 1.9 per cent in 2013 to 2.1 per cent in 2014. This was driven mainly by better tourism outturns in all servicedependent economies where
the average growth improved from 1.3 per cent to 1.8 percent in this period.” Jordan said that how long these service dependent economies will continue to turn positive growth is unsure, given the recent attacks and threats by the correspondent banks to sever or curtail services to the small financial institutions in our region. He said that there is a need for researchers to now come up with a mechanism or recommendations that will allow the region to still enjoy continued access to the markets of the developed countries while ensuring that the banks will not be adversely affected. The Finance Minister said that correspondent banking is a business and not a service. The Caribbean Centre for Money and Finance (CCMF) is now given the challenge to see how best the region can continue to be productive business partners with foreign correspondents. He said that from every challenge is some opportunity, and it is for the CCMF to find the opportunities out of the recent challenges to the survival of the financial services sector in the region.
- Finance Minister He said that the commodity-producing economies on the other hand recorded weaker growth of 2.5 percent in 2014, down from the 3.2 percent achieved in 2013, partly because of the drastic drop in commodity prices in the latter part of 2014. “We in Guyana have not been spared the backwash of weakening global economic performance. For the first time in recent memory, the six pillars that have been the foundation of the economy’s upbringing, namely sugar, rice, bauxite, gold, diamonds and timber have all suffered major setbacks. Even a seventh pillar, remittances, which account for upwards of 25 percent of GDP, have also recorded decline,” the Minister said. “Remittances are critically important for poverty reduction across the region and every effort must be made to ensure that the region continues to have access to that flow. The central bank governors met recently, and I hope they paid some attention to the impact of US legislation on
remittance companies and devise ways and means to ensure continued access, supported by stringent regional regulation and supervision.” The Finance Minister said that one of the most intractable problems at the moment lies in the weakness of external accounts. He said that the region’s average performance in this area deteriorated, with the average deficit on the current account increasing from 8.6 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 9.2 percent of GDP between 2013 and 2014. “In fact, only Trinidad and Tobago recorded a surplus of 4.8 percent of GDP in 2014, but even in her case, the performance had deteriorated from a surplus of seven percent of GDP in 2013. “In all other countries, deficits were recorded in 2014 but the tourism-based economies of Jamaica, Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) were able to reduce their deficits relative to 2013.” Jordan said that the obvious solution to this mostly deteriorated performance is persistent and sustained growth of the region’s economies while steadily reducing or managing macroeconomic and financial vulnerabilities. He noted that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that the region will grow by approximately 2.2 percent in 2015, improving to 2.4 percent in 2016. This marginal
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan improvement, the Finance Minister said, is unlikely to be reflected in commodity producing countries, the outlook of which is for generally slower growth relative to service-based economies. Nevertheless, he said that low commodity prices and an improving US economy implies better growth prospects for most CARICOM countries. He said, too, that there are still significant problems in terms of fiscal accounts and debt sustainability. The Finance Minister added that an important area for action, therefore, is the strengthening of the fiscal accounts which is crucial to rebalancing the external accounts. He expressed that service-based economies should use lower commodity prices, in particular the very low fuel prices, to accelerate the fiscal consolidation process, with a view to improving debt sustainability. Jordan said that although commodity producers may
have lower debt burdens, lower commodity prices require a disciplined policy framework to shore up revenues and prevent similar sustainability issues from developing. He said that the fiscal consolidation that this implies in some cases requires increasing the efficiency of government expenditure programmes to weed out waste, without compromising the level of services provided to citizens and businesses. In other cases, the Finance Minister said that it requires significant adjustment of expenditure priorities and enhanced revenue collection so as to increase the fiscal space for undertaking growth-inducing projects. Additionally, Jordan said that stronger macroprudential frameworks are necessary to remove the major drag on growth implied by high levels of nonperforming loans. “These policies are necessary, but not sufficient conditions for the resumption of strong sustainable growth. It also requires an improvement in competitiveness which implies a range of actions in connected areas, including the improvement of the business environment, increasing labour productivity, and improving the quality of public infrastructure.” “The region also needs to strengthen the legal and regulatory frameworks for financial risk assessment and mitigation to deal with any financial vulnerability which can threaten the resumption of sustainable growth in the Caribbean,” he added
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Pomeroon river bank to receive critical defence structures Bids were opened yesterday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration (NPTA), under the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. The bids were for the provision of consultancy services for the design of river defence structures for critical sections of the Pomeroon river bank. There were six companies which bid for this project.
Bids were also opened under the Ministry of Public Security for consultancy services for the design and implementation of a public relations strategy. Consultants from the region, as well as Guyana bid for the project.
Meanwhile, a series of bids were opened for the provision of security services to several government ministries. The first one was the Ministry of the Presidency.
There were also bids for the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA). The contractor is to supply and deliver LED lamps and occupancy sensors.
Finally, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) had bids opened for the reactivation of the Timehri number four well and upgrade booster station.
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
Health Minister meets, interacts with patients and Baby Heart reps. A total of 18 children were recently identified for open heart surgery at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The operations, which commenced on November 21 and are slated to conclude on Saturday (December 5), are being conducted by the International Children’s Heart Foundation which is known as the Baby Heart Foundation. Thus far a total of 12 surgeries have been completed. Minister of Public Health, Dr George Norton, on Monday visited the Surgical Paediatric ward of the GPHC and interacted with the children scheduled to undergo surgery. He also met with volunteers and staff members attached to the Baby Heart Foundation as well as parents of the children. This is the Baby Heart Foundation’s third visit to Guyana. The team had previously visited in May and June of this year, at which time 14 and 12 surgeries were completed respectively. The team, which comprises medical professionals such as a perfusionist, surgeons, cardiologists, nurses and a respiratory therapist, has been working along with local health workers. In addition to performing open heart surgeries, the Baby Heart Foundation has also been helping to build the capacity of the GPHC to cater to paediatric cardiac patients.
Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, during the recent GPHC visit. This includes the training of local personnel such as: nurses, p a e d i a t r i c i a n s , anaesthetists and surgeons. The Foundation has also been instrumental in helping the GPHC to setup a paediatric ICU unit complete with all necessary implements. Several donations valued at millions of dollars have also been made to the hospital to facilitate the paediatric heart surgery programme. With the support of the Foundation, Guyana has been able to reduce the cost of sending children abroad for paediatric heart surgeries and simultaneously cut cost to train medical personnel to deliver paediatric cardiac care.
The Baby Heart Foundation is a not for profit organisation that is based in Memphis, Tennessee, United States, and has been in existence since 1993. According to Cardiac Surgeon and Chief Executive Officer of Clinical Operations, Dr R o d r igo Soto, the organisation has 22 years of experience in sustainable and independent paediatric cardiac services around the world. It has been able to offer paediatric heart care, through the expertise of mainly volunteer medical practitioners, to 33 countries, and has thus far completed in excess of 7,000 surgeries. Its contributions to these counties have allowed for many of them to eventually offer crucial paediatric services independently.
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11 months after accident…
Victim still hospitalised, relatives lament state of affairs Bryan Aubrey Devine, 65, has been bed-ridden in hospital since January 1, following an accident. He is lucky to be alive. His friend, 61-year-old George Baker, was not so lucky. He died on the spot. He was the first fatality for the year. Devine lives at lot 30 Kokerite Street, East La Penitence. On that fateful day, New Year’s Day, 2015, he left home to buy papers. Devine recounts as he was standing talking to Baker, “all I hear is Baker holler watch it and he chuck me out the way then badam.... a car slammed into us.” Both Baker, who lived in Freeman Street, East La Penitence, and Devine, landed in the trench. Both of Devine’s legs were broken. When he was rushed to the hospital he received 54 stitches to his two legs in addition to four under his left eye. Almost one year later there is still no word on what has happened with the case. Devine was supposed to be
Accident victim Bryan Aubrey Devine
one of the witnesses to the incident, but to date the police have not taken a statement from him and the driver is constantly heading to court. “The matter is proceeding in court and till now we ain’t hear from no one. We want assistance to help him and he now has bed sores and needs assistance to go to the washroom and move around while his legs are deteriorating as is his health,”
his niece Donna Waldron said yesterday. According to hospital officials, the man was discharged more than six months, but cannot go home as no one is there to care for him. Another niece, Jeneer Devine said, “We want to take him home but we don’t have any man to carry him upstairs and no wheelchair to move him around. He is in constant pain.”
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Kaieteur News
VACANCY Landscape maintenance team seeks, Hardworking, reliable workers, 17-35 ages; on the job, training. Contact: 219-0468/621-2453 SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana Passport application. Graphics design, Advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. PARTY DECORATING: balloon creation, back drops etc. for weddings, birthdays, anniversary etc. Make your event extra special! Tel Maya: 642-6664 INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC – TEL: 600-4212: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Landscaping: Palms, largest varieties of plants, Used in every one of our unique landscapes- Call: 648-1821/ 219-0468 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building. visadocumentsgy@ y a h o o . c o m . Call: 2256496, 662-6045 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 2310655; 683-8734. Omar Landscaping: Palms, largest varieties of plants, Used in every one of our unique landscapes- Call: 648-1821/ 219-0468 Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezersCall:629-4946 or 225-4822 Professional Pressure washing & water tank cleaning services, for all your home & business exterior cleaning call: 696-5424
WANTED 1 Cook to work in the Interior for Family. Call: 683-2271 Wanted experienced taxi drivers and dispatchers@ Princess Hotel ProvidenceTel: 616-5419, 256-7075 Experienced pastry maker, curry & roti/puri cooks, counter servers, handy boys. Apply at Hack’s Halaal, 5 Commerce Street. Bartenders, waitress, cook, maintenance, please apply in person @ Aracari Resort 160 Plantation Versailles W.B.D Senior Mechanic to work in Georgetown – Call: 218-1156 Drivers, dispatchers & contract cars- Call: 2310316,231-0002, 219-4086, 2194087 Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665 Wanted land to buy at Parfaite Harmonie, Eccles, Diamond, Tuschen (best price pay)- call: 604-6724 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic- Call: 219-5354 (Monday- Saturday) 8:154:15pm Office clerk senior/ junior CXC English/ Mathematics, computer knowledge an asset- Call: 219-5354 Experienced wash bay attendants living in Georgetown. Attractive salary- Call: 646-8748 Security guard & a gardener: preferably from G/town and E.C.D. Call Neville Osman: 624-1737 (8:00am-4:00pm). 1 Cleaner for office at East Bank Demerara- Call: 614-4358 Experienced Driver @ Gem’s Taxi-Call: 665-5338; 231-3709, 667-9013 One lorry driver to sell water, experience in such field required- Call: 678-1234 We pay cash for land in Eccles, Herstelling, Farm, Prospect, Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt, Zeelugt- Call: 6117223, 604-2207
Suriname Old years into new- exciting fireworks, shopping, site-seeing & tours (Dec 30th- Jan 3rd). Call: 665-5171, 639-2663
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel:644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997
SALON -Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal, Mabelline. -Nail Technician Course Call: 647-1773/660-5257
Plant Shop Sales Clerk: Hardworking, literate, punctual workers, Work experience an asset. Contact: 648-1821 Experienced bar/ shop worker for Ekereku bottom Interior, age 17-30years- Call: 231-0363 Exist for bartender, waitress, security guard –Contact Sheik or Donald on Tel: 227-1131 Vacancy exists for cooks, wait-staff, bartenders & cleaners at Starbuds Restau r a n t . Send applications to 183 Albert St, Georgetown. ACCOUNTS CLERK, MINIMUM CXC Accounts Grades I or II; PLANT TRAINEE, GTI/ GITC graduates preferred E.B.D Residents- Tel. 676 6700
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Rotweiler pups. Tel: 6196086, 622-6646, 699-7077.
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 2 Bedrooms apartment located @ Mon-Repos North E.C.D- price $60,000 – Contact: 692-9295 & 688-6005 2 Bedrooms bottom flat @ West Ruimveldt - $40,000 per month. Call: 692-7194; 6927377
PRADO: TOP CONDITION, SUNROOF, FULLY LOADED, 8 SEATER, FUEL, 2000 MODEL. CALL: 6845868 CRV EXCELLENT CONDITION, 1998CC, ALARM, DVD, MAGRIM, CLEAN ENGINE & BODYCALL: 684-5868 Used XBOX 360, PS Vita, PS3 I-pad & I-pods, XBOX one & games –Tel: 621-7497; 6038643; 649-3277 Rottweiler and German Shepherd mix pups for sale – Call: 641-1771 and 654-0388 Pure bred Rottweiler pups with pedigree – best quality. Call/Whatsapp: 664-5401
Security officers wanted by security company-Contact: 672-1920, between 8:00am5:00pm
Hair & Nail Stations @ Forgaty’s Building, also a braider either to rent station or work -Call: 602-7256; 6859836
TRINIDAD JOB O P P O R T U N I T Y: EXPERIENCED HOUSEKEEPER WITH VALID PASSPORT CALL: 669-6565; 695-2838
Julieann’s Apartment Rentals: fully furnished apartments with air-condition & Wi-Fi $9,000 daily - Call: 226-5336; 692-6595; 616-4686
Cheap! Cheap! CCTV Security Surveillance Kit, 8 Channels DVR with built in Hard Drive, 8 bullet cameras Tel: 621-4740; 686-3500
One self contained room; preferably bachelor. Call: 2234545
1 Xbox original soft-moded with over 30 games $17,000, 1 Nintendo DS Lite with 4 games $15,000- Call: 6219604, 694-1748
Vacancies for porters. Apply at Alabama Trading Georgetown Ferry Stelling Stabroek. 5 Waitresses to work at Sports Bar on E.B.D $17,000 weekly. Free meals and accommodation- Call/ Whatsapp: 661-8802 Exists for 2 housekeepersages 35-50 years, reference required from previous workplace- Call: 676-2812 (between 8am-5pm) Vacancies exist for cashiers and sales staff. Apply in person with written application at Nirva Supermarket - call: 227-5771
SD Real Estate, Executive 2 Bedrooms Apartment in exclusive Residential Area with all modern amenities. Tel: 653-2920. Prime business place for rent @ Mon Repos Public Road E.C.D, 2 (2) Bedroom apartment @ Block 8 Mon Repos E.C.D. Contact: 6181754; 681-1508; 220-6168 3 Bedrooms bottom flat to rent $50,000 per month - Tel: 2340079, 678-9176
Stalls 64-72 -47ft longX7ft wide @ La Penetence Market Albouystown-Call: 6631597; 218-4837; 225-4410
Pure bred pit-bull pups for sale –Contact Lisa: 697-8867 One 600amp automatic transfer switch sold as isCall:627-7835 AMERICAN BULLY CALL: 667-4845, 6100068, 220-7933 1 Nintendo 3DSXL with 2 games $35,000, 1 Dell XPS M140 laptop computer, 1 Dell Precision M60 laptop computer - Call: 621-9604, 694-1748 1 Nintendo Wii game console with 1 game $16,000, 1 PS2 console with 7 games $13,000- Call: 621-9604, 6941748
CAR RENTAL EDUCATIONAL Computerized Accounting: QuickBooks, Peachtree, Excel 2016, P.O.S Pre-Xmas giveaway -$35,000 Micrographics, Vreed-enHoop, Royal Castle Building. Call: 264-3057
TOURS
Wednesday December 02, 2015
9 Courses Diploma in Computer Studies, Xmas Deal -$20,000 off @ Micrographics, Vreed-enHoop, Royal Castle Building- Call: 264-3057
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 656-0087 ,EMAIL:PRO_ A U T O R E N TA L @YAHOO.COM Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494
2 Hands sanders, 1 Skilsaw & Dewalt 7 1/4" circle sawCall: 621-9604, 694-1748 50LBS BAGS, DOG FOOD W/SALE & RETAIL- CALL: 222-7891; 609-9202 CONTROLLERS FOR PS2 AND PS2 VIDEO GAME SYSTEMS, ONLY $9,000 CALL MAX: 609-8132 OR 672-8569 CATERING Order now – Puri, Roti and curries (no order too big or small) –Call: 676-6312; 626-2629
PROPERTY FOR SALE Church and 2 storey building Lot 180 Charlotte Street Bourda-Call: 227-6817; 624-7341 Property for sale, Grove $20M / Rent: $50,000 per month. Tel: 625-5461. 2 storied transported concrete property- upstairs: 2 bedrooms apartment, downstairs: 2 bedroom apartment, block ‘8’ MonRepos, E.C.D -$19M neg. Call: 625-1514; 231-7255 2 Storey 45x35 concrete property, lower flat incomplete. Land 65x120 @ Diamond N/S 5th Avenue, E.B.D- Call: 664-5052 Transported property 48X223ft (with old house) at Hague (duck pond/ settlement) W.C.D, price $5.5M negotiable- Call: 6553667 Two properties for sale at West Coast and West Bank. Excellent condition- Call: 660-3235, 668-3985
TO LET Brand new top flat unfurnished 2 bedrooms apartment, located Lot 8 Shell Road Kitty Georgetown -$70,000 –Call: 231-4385; 638-5894 For foreigners fully furnished two bedrooms apartment in South. Hot & cold, cable, washing machine & internet. Tel: 6895877 3 Bedrooms apartment for rental at W.B.D- Call: 2671446, 674-6080 Newly constructed apartment in a safe and healthy environment- Call: 6986496, 622-6512 1- Two bedrooms house $60,000 monthly. Only serious enquires- Call Joy: 218-1285, 649-9059 Prime 2 flat business place to rent on Robb Street, Lacytown between Camp & Alexander Streets - Tel: 2269377 2 BEDROOMS FULLY FURNISHEDAPARTMENT, IN ECCLES (FOR OVERSEAS VISITORS) US$30 DAILY. CALL MAX: 609-8132; 672-8569 FOR SALE/RENT American Pools table-Call: 277-0578 Continued on page 29
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 29
Letters... Where your views make the news... Letters... Where your views make the news
Former PNC executive lists five risks of the March 2016 local elections DEAR EDITOR, The Coalition Government has commendably spared no efforts in outlining its vision for local government in Guyana. From its public statements, one can discern that this vision straddles two levels. One level is a narrow traditional one, focusing on the restoration of community infrastructure (roads, canals, markets, etc) and community services, such as garbage collection. On a far grander level, local government is envisioned as the platform from which to propel the social, political, cultural and economic transformation of communities. Minister (of Communities) Bulkan, for example, in a letter to newspaper editors just over a week ago, touched on both levels when he wrote that local government election (LGE) is an indispensable investment in “deepening democracy as well as good governance” and that local government will result in cleaner, safer and better managed communities. President Granger likewise, in a report carried by the Guyana Chronicle on Monday (captioned “LGE will mend broken communities”), remarked at a ceremony in Region 6 that not only must local government units deal with unsanitary conditions and neglected infrastructure, but also with problems such as “alcoholism, drug abuse and suicide”. Are we expecting too much from local governance?
And is the LGE in March 2016 being mis-advertised as the magic brew to metamorphose our local councils into models of high achievements? Decentralization as a democratic concept and practice has a lure, and some soon view it as an end in itself, not as a means to an end. What could be wrong about giving people in communities the power to decide matters that reflect local conditions and choices? The hard-nosed reality is that the allure of decentralization, however, must be weighed against the capacity and the desire of local residents to manage some their own affairs, and against the need for financial and administrative economies of scale ( all NDCs need not own their own fire engines, you see). Even if we focus on the narrow traditional mandate, several factors threaten the growth of local selfgovernance in Guyana. None of these factors is news. The largest challenge is, of course, public self-motivation and participation. The country has held only two LGEs since independence in 1966. Voter turnout nationwide at the last LGE in 1994 was put at a not indecent 48% by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES). Still, without a widespread culture of community spirit and engagement, local government could become pointless except for local
elites and political interest groups. Secondly, managerial incapacity at the community level remains a bugbear. The continued exodus overseas of the qualified seems to have drained the country of a broader set of human resources, in particular fresh university graduates, teachers and nurses. The skills gap brings into question the wisdom of imposing too grand an agenda on local government. Thirdly, despite the recent passage of enlightened local government legislation, confusion over jurisdictions will likely still persist between central government and all tiers of local administration, between RDCs and NDCs, and between NDCs and the several hundred unelected Community Development Councils (CDCs). This confusion has in the past led to conflicts, overlaps and implementation gaps. Given the grander vision for local government in Guyana, one area ripe for such problems is community and economic development, where even CDCs are involved. Fourthly, the intended participation of the major political parties has generated much comment, mostly negative. The hazard here, of course, is that local organs can become mere appendages of the political parties and thereby become arenas to play out national political hostilities. The introduction of the first-past-the-poll system for
Fatal flaws or Machiavellian politicians? DEAR EDITOR, With the coming of the APNU-AFC Alliance in government, Guyanese are getting a lesson in realpolitik. As is evident by recurring disclosures to date, the Government is backtracking on key commitments and principles espoused when both parties in the Alliance were in the Opposition benches in Parliament. The lofty ideals and promises of pre-May 11, 2015, are now being replaced by political opportunism and pragmatism. And the former critics of the haughtiness of officialdom are now becoming ardent practitioners. These developments are not surprising to the seasoned observer of politics, and they are not restricted to Guyana. Centuries ago, the Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare, informed us “If to do were as easy as to know what were good to do, chapels had been churches and poor men’s cottages princes’ palaces. It is a good divine that follows his own instructions. I can easier teach twenty what were good to be done than be one of the twenty to follow mine own teaching”. The May 11, 2015 elections offer lessons for all. The leaders of the PPP have been
taught that they do not hold a monopoly on government and their party in Government was not irreplaceable. The lesson for the new Government is perhaps aptly reflected by the statement of Dr. Norton, Minister of Health. When faced with continuing maternity deaths at the public hospital and reminded of his earlier criticisms of his predecessor, he is reported as saying “(when) you are on the outside you don’t understand what is taking place. Now you are on the inside you are seeing it” (Stabroek News, September 28, 2015 – “Accountability to patients in the public health system”). As for the electorate, they are learning that while the players have changed, the game remains the same. Politicians will tell them what they want to hear but, once in Government, will go ahead and do what they want. In Opposition, APNU and the AFC were good at talking the talk. Now when it is time to walk the talk, they are stumbling. Time will tell whether these are missteps of a new government or fatal flaws of Machiavellian politics. Harry Hergash
single candidates and community groups, starting from 2016, is meant to dilute the influence of parties. Political parties however could bring a few virtues. They will be the main galvanizers of public interest and participation and can lend technical and other support to the new councils. But the cons may likely outweigh the pros. The fifth risk to successful local governance is any underperformance by the new Local Government Commission. This body (spawned by the 1999 constitution reform process) has been given the mandate to regulate local authorities and promote their effectiveness. The commission by now should be fully constituted and building up to full steam. An organizational structure should be in place. All commissioners and staff
should be undergoing intense training and should be researching international best practices. Systems and procedures should be designed and encoded. Public visibility should be increased. And so on. Putting legs to the government’s soaring vision for local governance must start with understanding and accepting that decentralization is not a good in itself and that more of it does not necessarily mean more goodness. Overburdening local councils could lead to operational breakdowns, deny citizens of expected services, waste money and other resources, and turn people off. Each local government unit must determine its own community goals in line with what it can properly deliver with the resources at hand. Sherwood Lowe
Pastor advocates.... From page 5 mentality” to find support. The only persons then that remain a part of the support group are those still practicing criminal beaviour. The now stigmatized, isolated, mostly illiterate, unemployed ex-offender feels compelled to seek the warmth of these problematic gatherings and the cycle of crime and recidivism continues. It is a known fact that any place where there is a formally established Ex-offender Rehabilitation Program, the crime and recidivism statistics are reduced. This is because the exoffender, who has decided to change, could now have access to facilities and programs that speak to his/ her criminogenic needs. Prison is never easy or preferred and there are many who leave prison desiring to change but because there are
no structured initiatives in place, the ex-offender is likely to seek the company of those of savory characters and the vicious cycle of violence and antisocial behaviour are repeated. This administration should establish a place where the formerly incarcerated could benefit from resources that will aid in their developing behaviour that lend to the reduction in crime and the building up of Guyana. It would be to the Government’s benefit to spearhead the establishment of Guyana’s First Ex-Offender Rehabilitation Program. Give the ex-offenders a healthy place where they could meet and find support from each other. This will help in the reduction of crime in Guyana. Pastor W. P. Jeffrey Practical Christianity Ministries
Guyana’s football... From page 4 Is turning its back on “Durdy” and pledging to clean up the lawlessness, advocated by the GFF President, not an act of betrayal? Surely, I think so, since subservience to the Government of the day, upon receiving the $4,000,000 Elite League first prize come a few days after Butts’ sentencing. Why the obstinacy, in non-inclusive governance when former President, the late Janet Jagan, wanted to repeal the draconian law, as it relates to sentencing? However, the former Opposition Leader, the late Desmond Hoyte, emphatically blurted out “no”! Editor, with 90% of those incarcerated/imprisoned for small amounts of Ganga, being Black people, Indo Guyanese still controls the monopoly of Ganga trade. Where is the black monopoly, are we still at the lowest scale of the social/ economic ladder, devoid of elevation of spiritual consciousness? Lester Sealey
From page 28
VEHICLE FOR SALE Star Cars Auto Sales: Premio, Spacio, Runx, IS, Fielder, Bluebird, Axela, Pitbull, Raum, Benz -Tel: 2683509; 679-3140 Toyota AT 212. Price $1.1M negotiable- Tel: 650-4736 Toyota Noah & Voxy, Fully loaded, never registered, ‘G’ Series -$1.7M –Call: 6172891 One Honda CRV, immaculate condition –price $1,650,000- Call: 626-2884 Mitsubishi Canter for sale; GTT series, next to new – Call: 611-5354; 615-4728, price reasonable Bus for sale, BJJ series- call: 677-3177, 678-5887 Honda Civic (white) 2003 very good condition $875,000. Owner leaving Call/whatsapp: 688-1823 Nissan Titan 2004 model, GSS series, in immaculate condition - Call: 629-4392, 220-7958 CAR RENTAL Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807
LAND FOR SALE Luxury gated community with pool, mall, swipe entry/ exit, underground irrigation –Contact: 609-0783 Providence Scheme 115ftX81ft located on a Cul de Sac close to Bai Shan Lin -$8.2M negotiable –Call: 6014163; 223-0719 Land @ Moblissa Soesdyke Linden Highway, 22 Acres if cleared land with nearby creek -3 minutes off Highway-Call: 689-0003 At Parfaite Harmonie$1.4M, $1.6M, $1.1M, Tuschen 2 nd street $5M, Tuschen Phase 2 $1.2M. Term available- Call: 6046724 1155 Acres of land located at East Bank Demerara. Price Negotiable- Call: 612-2060 Parfaite Harmonie (80ftx45ft) $1M. East Coast (low lands) $1.8M, Parfaite Harmonie (100ftx50ft fenced) $3.2M call: 611-7223, 604-2207
Page 30
Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Teens freed of armed Lady Northcote commences operations today robbery charges
Keon Simon
Akeem Marshall
Two teens who were accused of two counts of armed robberies were freed yesterday. Presiding City Magistrate Judy Latchman dismissed the matter on the grounds that the identification parade of the individuals was not conducted properly.
Akeem Marshall, 21, of Albouystown, and Keon Simon, 19, of Chapel Street, Lodge, were accused of robbing Inez Hope of one gold bracelet valued $120,000 and US$530 among other items, on January 2, last, at Palm Street, Georgetown. The duo was further
Teen charged with Hamson’s... (From page 20) blood. There were wounds to his left chest and cheek. The police were summoned and found that the firearm, cell phone and other items belonging to the man were missing. The businessman was taken to the East Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Investigations were carried out and led to Rammit being charged with Persaud’s murder. A few months later, the police issued a wanted bulletin for Evans in connection with the killing. Relatives of Persaud had posted a $3M reward for the arrest of the wanted man.
Guyana-born ex-basketball... (From page 23) unaware of his double life. They didn’t know that in March 2009, a Texas trooper discovered 200 pounds of marijuana packed into suitcases of a Lincoln Town Car that Miskiri had rented and was riding in. They didn’t know that he had told investigators that he became involved in drug trafficking through connections from his professional basketball career. And they didn’t know that prosecutors believed that between 2010 and 2011, more than four tons of marijuana were delivered to another restaurant owned by Miskiri.
accused of robbing Yvonne and Christopher Langevine of cash and jewellery - with a value of $6M. The court heard that a gun was used during the commissioning of the robberies. The Prosecutor was Police Corporal Kerry Bostwick. Magistrate Latchman stated that the court was not satisfied with the evidence given by a witness for the prosecution. That witness resided next door to where the alleged robbery occurred. The witness had testified that he saw Marshall and Simon for about eight seconds - this was before and after the men left the premises. The magistrate explained that this time span was not sufficient for the witness to remember the physical features of the men. As such, she placed no weight on that piece of evidence. Attorney Mortimer Coddett represented both Simon and Marshall. The two charges were dismissed after the prosecution closed its case. After the men heard of the Magistrates’ ruling they exited the court compound merrily. Marshall and Simon are no strangers to the court. Earlier this year the men were convicted on an armed robbery charge by a City Magistrate and were each ordered to pay a fine of $75,000. On July 19, Simon had two charges of robbery underarms dismissed against him. He was accused of robbing two persons of a quantity of gold jewellery worth over $1M.
After undergoing massive rehabilitation, MV Lady Northcote will commence its public operations today. This was according to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) yesterday. The vessel which usually plies the Georgetown to Port Kaituma, Region One Route was docked back in September for rehabilitation. In the approximate $140M project works were carried out on the hull, deck, passenger walkways, the crew’s quarters and the offloading/ loading winch, along with plumbing and electrical upgrades. Two other vessels, MV Kimbia and MV Sandaka, are currently docked for repairs at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) and the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) Mazaruni Dockyard, respectively. The rehabilitation cost is pegged
at $140M. With regards to MV Kimbia, the vessel’s estimated repairs cost is estimated at $107M. Kimbia, which plies the Georgetown to Kumaka, Region One route, is set to undergo general docking and rehabilitation works to its hull, on-board machinery, and underwater fittings along with other repairs. GNIC has been contracted to rehabilitate the vessel. the
repair works are scheduled to last six weeks. Meanwhile, the estimated repairs cost for MV Sandaka is $33M. The vessel, which plies the Leguan to Parika route, is expected to undergo general docking as well as repairs to its super structure, underwater fittings, hull, machinery and other areas. Courtney Benn Contracting Services Limited has been contracted for the job, which is set to last for four weeks.
At a recent press conference held by the Guyana Women and Gender Equality Commission, members expressed their concern over the way in which the victims of violence are being treated by the police force when they go to make reports. Chairperson of the committee, Indra Chandarpal, stated that despite engaging the force at the highest levels on the issue and recommending training, which they have received,
their response remains inadequate. Member of the committee, Renata Chuck-A-Singh said that sometimes they feel and often appear to be “impotent” as the many social ills facing Guyana can only be raised by them as they do not possess the power to “literally go into do things for ourselves, we can only bring these matters to the relevant authorities.” Aside from that however, the committee also makes referrals to places to which these persons can go for help.
The recent case of a mother and daughter from Region Two was brought up at the conference. The mother made claims that she and her daughter were repeatedly raped. One of the members of the committee had reportedly intervened, in June, and took the matter to the police. The committee member was subsequently turned away by the police who reportedly said that the allegations were untrue. However, when checks were made with the hospital authorities, the woman’s story was confirmed as she had visible marks on her hands supporting her claims that she was tied up and raped. Vaginal examinations also confirmed this. Member of the committee, Nicole Cole, took the opportunity to also comment on the need for the enforcement of laws with regards to interpersonal violence. Cole said that being a survivor of interpersonal violence, she is saddened by the fact that “the same bottlenecks” she had when she was a survivor are “the same ones that still exist today.” “Although we have a robust legislation in place to protect women,” said Cole, “it’s all to me just a ton of paper, because in actuality, women are dying.” She commented on the recent death of a young woman who was stabbed multiple times and thrown out of the car. “It cannot continue, something needs to be done.”
MV Lady Northcote
Police must respond more to women’s issues
Wednesday December 02, 2015
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Wednesday November 02, 2015
EU considers flying in refugees from Turkey
A Turkish Gendarme leads a group of refugees to buses to prevent them from sailing off for the Greek island of Chios in dinghies, at a beach in the western Turkish coastal town of Cesme, in Izmir province, Turkey, yesterday. REUTERS/DENIZHAN GUZEL Reuters - The European Union executive is drafting a plan to fly limited numbers of refugees from Turkey direct to Europe, EU officials said yesterday, following a weekend deal under which Ankara promised to help cut chaotic mass inflows. So far, 886,662 people seeking safety have reached European shores this year, about four times the total in 2014, and mostly through Turkey, according to U.N. data. That has set EU governments against each other and strained to breaking point their system of passport-free travel across most national borders.. To stem the influx, EU leaders reached an agreement with Turkey on Sunday offer-
ing cash, easier visas for Turkish travellers to Europe and renewed talks to join the EU, in exchange for Turkey’s engagement to better patrol its borders and improve the conditions of the refugees it hosts.. The deal also pledged some “burden-sharing” to help Turkey cope with the more than 2.2 million Syrians on its territory. Beyond cash, this is likely to take the form of a plan to resettle some Syrians directly to the EU, officials said. The EU’s executive Commission will present a proposal for an ad hoc resettlement scheme before a summit of the 28 EU leaders scheduled for Dec. 1718, where the plan will be discussed. Refugees may be flown
directly from Turkey, and also from Lebanon and Jordan which host millions of refugees too, to EU countries that volunteer to adhere to the plan. “It will be a coalition of the willing,” an EU official said, while acknowledging that the number of available countries is still unclear, let alone the target figure of refugees. On the sidelines of the EU-Turkey summit on Sunday, eight EU countries discussed taking part. Germany is seen as the keenest supporter of the plan; leaders of Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Austria, Sweden, Finland and Greece also attended, while France may also join the group.
Haiti opposition says transitional govt. may be needed PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Eight candidates in last month’s disputed presidential vote are demanding changes in Haiti’s electoral council and national police department. And if that doesn’t happen by next month, they are calling for a transitional government to oversee new general elections. Among those signing late Sunday’s declaration was Jude Celestin, the secondplace finisher who is due to face the government-backed candidate, Jovenel Moise, in a Dec. 27 runoff. The ultimatum throws that runoff into question. The Group of Eight alliance, which includes seven of the top 10 vote-getters in the Oct. 25 first round, said that without “major changes ... fair, free and democratic elections” cannot be held while outgoing President Michel Martelly is in power. The eight said a transitional government would be
charged with adopting a new constitution, making various reforms and organizing “credible” general elections within two years. They did not specify how it might be formed. The eight have been demanding an independent recount due to what they assert was “massive fraud” in favor of Moise. But election authorities say the vote was a success and that fraud allegations have been properly investigated. They also say they lack the authority to appoint an independent panel to verify results. P i e r r e - L o uis Opont, president of the Provisional Electoral Council, told reporters at a Monday press conference that the next round will take place and the final results of the October vote “are not going to change.” He suggested the Group of Eight ultimatum was a political strategy and said the council would not get in-
volved. Moise’s well-financed Tet Kale party campaign has repeatedly denied accusations that it manipulated voting or the ballot count. The Electoral Council, which oversees the entire election process, said the agricultural entrepreneur chosen by Martelly to be his successor had nearly 33 percent of the vote and compared to 25 percent for Celestin, a former state construction chief who was the governmentbacked candidate five years ago. While many Haitians hoped that elections would end years of political gridlock, the official results have instead brought a renewed surge of paralyzing street protests. The Group of Eight is calling for the protests to continue, saying people should not “cede to blackmail, intimidation and manipulation.”
Wednesday November 02, 2015
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AG on election petitions ruling: Don’t call it a victory
Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi speaks with reporters outside the Hall of Justice after Monday’scourt ruling. In background is Tunapuna MP Esmond Forde. PHOTO: ABRAHAM DIAZ Trinidad Guardian - One ought not to look too far in calling Monday’s Court of Appeal ruling on the UNC’s election petitions a “victory” since three different judges had three different points of view on the matter, says Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi. “I had hoped this matter would have been dealt with today (Monday) but... there were three different versions of reasons given by the senior judges of the Court of Appeal,” Al-Rawi said while speaking to reporters outside the Hall of Justice, Port-ofSpain, following Monday’s judgment. At his side was Tunapuna MP Esmond Ford, one of the six PNM MPs whose constituencies are at issue in the UNC’s petitions. Al-Rawi said Commonwealth law did not lie with the majority of the Court of Appeal’s ruling. He added: “This is very much new ground but this is justice and T&T has the prerogative to deal with it. “At the end of the day, we feel very confident we are going to have a victory and about our prospects when the matter is heard (in the court again). On public trust in the Government following the ruling, Al-Rawi said on one hand while clarification of the law
was welcome, “on the other hand the issue of stability in T&T is another factor.” He said the view by the Chief Justice, whose position the other two judges disagreed with, was one which the PNM shared. He said: “We believed this was not a matter that leave (to be heard) ought to have been granted. I thought the rationale by the Chief Justice was clear, cogent and compelling.” Al-Rawi, however, noted the CJ’s issues were in the minority and the other judges didn’t share his, “so it’s quite a novel position. “It is regrettable the majority of the Court of Appeal didn’t share the Chief Justice’s view but the judges are yet to explain themselves in writing so we will see what the full depth of their rationale really is. I would be very interested to see that first before further comment,” he added. Noting the CJ’s view that the UNC’s pleadings in the matter were “hopeless,” AlRawi said those were not soft words by the CJ and was a strong view, “so one ought not to look too far into calling this thing a ‘victory.’ Suffice to say there were three different judges with three different points of view on a very important matter which is why we are confident of our
position and that at the end of the day we will have the victory that is deserved in this.” Acknowledging the ruling now means the UNC petitions return to the court to be heard, Al-Rawi said the Chief Justice had said mechanisms would be implemented for expeditious hearing. However, he said, there was also the Election and Boundaries Commission’s application to strike out the petitions, which will have to be heard first. Al-Rawi also estimated there might a 1,000-odd witnesses in the petition matter since the PNM had 320-plus witnesses and he expected the UNC to have a similar number. The EBC may also have witnesses, he figured. “How a judge manages about 1,000 witnesses expeditiously is going to be quite interesting,” he added. On how soon the matter might be heard, he said other such matters concerning former UNC MPs Winston Peters and Bill Chaitan had taken some time. There were also now six matters concerning the 2015 results before the courts and evidence would have to be led, he said. “I’m not confident this will be as expeditious as one would hope,” Al-Rawi added.
Wednesday November 02, 2015
ECJ Still Calculating Cost Of Delayed Announcement Of Elections The Gleaner - Director of Elections, Orrette Fisher, says the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) is still calculating the cost, to the Commission, of the delayed announcement of a general election this year. The country was gearing up for a possible general election this year arising from consistent hints from Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller. However, Simpson Miller put an abrupt end to those speculations recently stating that she would await the publication of the new voter’s list. Fisher says the ECJ had been undertaking several activities in preparation of a possible general poll. He says the Commission will be out for about $20 million as a result of the Prime
Orrette Fisher Minister putting the brakes on a possible election this year. The director of elections says the commission is now going over the full costs of
the delayed announcement. Meanwhile, Fisher says there is no sign as to when the government will provide the ECJ with the more than $2 billion needed to conduct a full reverification of voters. The ECJ requested the money earlier this year. Fisher says the Commission last conducted the exercise in 2006. The director of elections notes that the ECJ continues to do ongoing reverification so as to ensure that the voter’s list is as up-to-date as possible. Speaking from a personal position, he says he would like to see the reverification of the voter’s list to be conducted on 10-year cycles. Fisher was speaking in an interview on Nationwide Radio this morning.
TIVOLI ENQUIRY: Bishop Blair testifies about reluctant Coke, gunmen and bodies in Tivoli KINGSTON, Jamaica – Bishop Herro Blair testified in the Tivoli Enquiry that he visited Tivoli Gardens on two occasions to get then don Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke to surrender. He said he saw about 50 men with guns on May 19, 2010 and that he told Coke to have the men disarmed or tell them to leave the community. He told the enquiry that if he saw more guns in his life it would’ve been when he was a reserve in the army. He said the men were guarding the community and that he saw blockades along the roadway. Blair also testified that when be went back to Tivoli May 21, 2010 on the request of then Commissioner of Police Owen Ellington, he only saw four or five men with
guns in Coke’s office and that he thought to himself that Coke had acceded to his request. He said he met with Coke for about an hour and that the last 15 or 20 minutes were spent pleading with the don to turn himself in, which would spare the bloodshed that would come should members of the security forces attempted to apprehend him. He said he told Coke that the commissioner said he should turn himself in to the local authority or the United States and go for a reduced sentence. However, he said Coke refused, noting that he would wait on the outcome of his legal action before the court before making a decision. Blair said Coke also ex-
pressed fears that, should he surrender to local authorities, he could meet a similar fate as his father Lester Lloyd Coke who died in a mysterious fire while in police custody awaiting extradition to the United States. Blair said that he first spoke with Coke about surrendering on May 19 with the blessings of then Prime Minister Bruce Golding. He said that first meeting with Coke lasted about two hours. Blair testified that Coke refused to surrender, saying that he would do so if he lost his legal battle in the Supreme Court. Blair said he knew that the security forces were going to launch its operation to apprehend Coke, as a result of talks within police circles.
Venezuela seeks to downplay security fears around vote Caracas (AFP) - The Venezuelan government sought Monday to downplay security fears around the country’s upcoming legislative elections, rejecting the possibility of violence or a coup. With polls showing President Nicolas Maduro’s leftist movement on track for a landmark defeat by the opposition in Sunday’s vote, speculation and rumors have swirled about possible violence or moves by the ruling party to cling to power. “Some people have tried to weave a web of intrigue around December 6. But it’s going to be an electoral cel-
ebration. There will not be a coup, there will not be a ‘selfcoup’ or a civilian-military junta. Nor will there be terrorist violence or political violence,” said Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino on state TV. Padrino announced the deployment of 163,000 soldiers to provide security on election day, with another 25,000 in reserve. He also rejected opposition allegations that a state of emergency Maduro has imposed in 23 municipalities along the Colombian border was aimed at curbing political campaigns in the region.
He said the measure, which is officially aimed at fighting smuggling and organized crime, had reduced crime by 47 percent. The Democratic Unity Roundtable (MUD), Venezuela’s harried and fractious opposition coalition, has a large lead over Maduro’s United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) heading into the polls. If the opposition wins, it would regain control of the unicameral National Assembly for the first time since Maduro’s mentor, late leftist firebrand Hugo Chavez, came to power in 1999.
Wednesday November 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
After leaders’ rhetoric, climate negotiators start work on deal
U.S. President Barack Obama (L) sits with French President Francois Hollande (R) during a dinner with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry (2ndR), French Minister for Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy Segolene Royal (3rdR) and French Foreign Minister, Laurent Fabius (2ndL) at the Ambroisie restaurant in Paris, France. REUTERS/Thibault Camus/Pool Reuters - With encouragement from 150 world leaders ringing in their ears, government negotiators in Paris sought yesterday to turn that rhetoric of unity into the text of a global deal to slow climate change. But as the leaders departed Paris, it became apparent that disagreements which have blocked a deal over four years of lead-up negotiations remain unresolved. Negotiators from the 195 countries with a place at the table resumed work on a draft text that still runs to more than 50 pages and is riddled with sticky issues to be settled. The biggest obstacle is money: how to come up with the billions of dollars developing nations need to shift from fossil fuels and adapt to the impacts of climate change. At yesterday’s technical talks, countries restated their well-known negotiating positions on the question with few hints of compromise. China’s delegate Su Wei “noted with concern” what he called a lack of commitment by the rich to make deep cuts
in greenhouse gas emissions and help developing nations with new finance to tackle global warming. And the group of the 48 least developed countries urged far tougher action to limit rising temperatures. “It’s back to the nitty gritty,” said Alden Meyer, of the Union of Concerned Scientists, adding the opening day was “all good but that does not resolve the crunch issues.” Certainly there was still some hangover of goodwill from Monday, when a parade of leaders stepped to the podium to assert the imperative of getting a deal. French President Francois Hollande said he was encouraged by the start of a conference that is planned to run until Dec. 11. “It’s set off well but it has to arrive too,” he told reporters. The mood had also been brightened by major spending announcements, including a plan by India and France to mobilise $1 trillion for solar power for some of the world’s poorest people and a private
sector initiative led by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates to mobilise billions of dollars for new energy research and development. A deal in Paris would be by far the strongest ever agreed to bind both rich and poor nations to limit greenhouse gas emissions, which scientists say have blanketed the earth, raised global temperatures and begun upending the planet’s climate system. But yesterday showed that the Paris talks are still taking place under the shadow of politics-as-usual back home. In the United States, Republicans have signalled they will oppose authorizing the billions of dollars that President Barack Obama has pledged to help developing nations adapt to climate change. In response, Obama told reporters before boarding Air Force One to return to the United States that the impacts of climate change will force any future U.S. president — Democrat or Republican — to act.
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Banks Beer Inter-ministry Futsal teams receive prizes Sannsports and the main players Banks DIH, New GPC and the ministry of Tourism at a simple presentation ceremony at the Banks DIH Sports Club presented the winners with their prizes. Making brief remarks at the inaugural inter-ministries and corporation presentation ceremony, Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Tourism Marjorie Chester
lauded the initiative as a great move to bring together the ministries and corporations in sports. Ms. Chester stated too that the Tourism ministry will use every opportunity to promote tourism, especially sports tourism with the advent of the national sports drive. Brian Choo-hen Banks Beer Brand Manager sang his praises for the pulling off of
Debutants holding their own so far... (From page 35) $600,000 and trophy. The recently installed F3 and lower event will be a 1300M affair for a $500,000 and trophy winning take. The Two year old event for West Indies Bred horses has its first prize tagged at $400,000 and trophy now over 1200M. The H1 and lower 1200M race has a winning pocket of $400,000 and trophy. The newly added event for two year old horses will see the top runner taking home $300,000 and trophy over 1000M. The J class event is now for J3 and lower horses over 1000M for the winning pocket of $250,000 and trophy. There is an event for K and Lower horses, running over a distance of 1000M for a winning purse of $150,000 and trophy. The top Jockey along with the runner up, the top stable and champion trainer will all be presented with trophies and other incentives compliments of the organizers. Entries are expected to close on Saturday 12th December. The organisers have also put together some interesting
Coulter-Nile called... (From page 38) story for a very pleasant young man.” Boland will play for Victoria in their Sheffield Shield game starting this Sunday unless required in the Test squad. The first Test against West Indies begins on Thursday next week. Test squad David Warner, Joe Burns, Steven Smith (capt), Adam Voges, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Peter Nevill (wk), Peter Siddle, James Pattinson, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland (standby).
incentives for lucky patrons and participants that will be unveiled later. The event will be held under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority Interested persons can contact Chandu Ramkissoon (624-9063 or 232-0633), Kris Jagdeo (624-6123; 322-0369), Rajendra (Jim –Jo) 618-7278, Ramnauth 337-5311, Romel Jagroop (624-1798) and Sancho 690-0569. Race time is 12:30 hrs. The coordinator is Nasrudeen (Jumbo Jet) Mohamed. (Samuel Whyte)
the tournament and noted efforts to involve more ministries and corporate Guyana to be a part of the tournament will be a giant step for the next tournament being more successful. Choo-hen pledged Banks DIH commitment to sports in Guyana and the tournament. New GPC finance director Dwayne Lovell in offering his congratulations and praise for the initiative, said his company will continue to support the tournament and will ensure New GPC field a team for next year’s tournament. Coordinator of the tournament Esan Griffith in brief remarks thanked the sponsors, teams, support staff and fans who supported the tournament inclusive of the ministry’s staff, members of the various ministries and Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge. Banks DIH Ltd received the champion trophy and two hundred thousand dollars, Ministry of Foreign Affairs as runners’ up pocketed one
hundred and fifty thousand dollars and trophy, the third place trophy went to Ministry of Infrastructure along with one hundred thousand dollars and fourth place Ministry of Public Health seventy-five thousand dollars and trophy. Seon McKenzie of Banks DIH copped the MVP award, highest goal scorer award went to Delroy Dean of the Public Health Ministry who scored fourteen (14) goals and Romell Legall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was adjudged the best goalkeeper. The tournament started with thirty-two teams and was played at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in November 2015. The tournament was sponsored by Banks DIH Limited, Ministry of Tourism, New GPC, Trophy Stall, Mohammad’s Enterprise, Mid-town Café, GFF, Insurance Brookers Limited and Oasis Water, Christopher Matthias, National Sports Commission, Petra Organization, Professional Key shop.
Wednesday December 02 , 2015 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) An element of the mystical and fanciful will play a significant part in your world today, Aries.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Your actions may be erratic and spontaneous today, Libra, but they will also most certainly be powerful.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You may sense that the actions around you are fueled by selfish motives. You may be the only one who really sees what's going on, Taurus.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Take some time to break out of your normal routine and see what's going on in the world around you. You could be so focused and so driven toward a specific goal that you fail to take into account the rest of the world.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Take action that will help you find greater freedom in your life, Gemini. In an attempt to please the people around you, you may be giving up too much of yourself. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You may have to consciously let go of some of your plans, Cancer, and simply leave things up to chance. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Don't let the positive energy of the day pass you by, Leo. You're able to grab hold and make greater use of it than most, so don't hesitate to get going early and keep on going until late. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may be tempted to make up your own rules, Virgo, because you really aren't happy with the ones before you.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Don't feel like you're obligated to jump through other people's hoops, Sagittarius. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You may be acting unconsciously. Suddenly you're halfway through a task and wondering what you really hoped to accomplish by starting it in the first place. . AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You can rely on your good luck to pull you out of difficult situations today. This is one day when you can launch yourself headfirst without worrying too much about the outcome. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may have your guard up as you fend off people and situations that have caught you unprepared.
Wednesday November 02, 2015
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Guyanese anticipate series sweep against Antigua tonight -thrash visitors for 3-0 lead in first game at CASH By Edison Jefford Guyana’s All-Star Basketball team is poised to complete a series sweep at C l i ff A n d e r s o n S p o r t s Hall (CASH) tonight after beating an Antiguan All-Star team Monday night at the same venue t o t a k e a 3-0 lead in a four-game goodwill series. Guyana thrashed the visitors 83-57 to follow up on wins at the MSC Hard Court in Linden, and Burnham Basketball Court last weekend. The fourth and final game will be held tonight with the Guyanese anticipating an extension of dominance. Guard, Jason Squires gifted himself 18 points ahead of his birthday yesterday to lead Guyana’s offence. Point guard, Travis Burnett was spectacular again with 16 points, while forward Akeem Kanhai supported with 13 points. For the Antiguans, Kareem Meade had 15 points, while Adisa Harris supported with nine points. Kareem Edwards and Dale Gore supported with seven points each. Guyana had taken a104 lead with a Burnett fastb r e a k f i n i s h m idway through the first quarter, but Antigua went on an 8-3 run to haul them to within one 12-13 before Harris equalised at 14-14 with a minute to play in the quarter that ended with a 1616 deadlock. Meade landed back-toback three-point jumpers to help the visitors to a 22-16 lead, but the spark of Nikkoloi Smith and Dominic Vincente ignited at the right time with Vincente nailing a 15-foot jumper and Smith finishing a left-handed lay-up to give Guyana a 24-22 lead five minutes before half-time.
The pendulum swung again when Antigua’s Marlon Charles gave his team a 30-27 lead with just under a minute left before the break, as turnovers and missed attempts at the rim somehow crept into the Guyanese game in the latter half of the quarter. Burnett finished a floater in the lane to ensure a onepoint disadvantage (29-30) at halftime. But the Antiguans went scoreless in the first three minutes of the third period as the Guyanese raced to a 35-30 lead, compliment of a 6-0 run. Guyana continued the offensive surge with Kanhai crowning the moment with a one-handed dunk. Antigua scored just two points in the first five minutes of the third quarter to emphasise an offensive meltdown. Squires gave the Guyanese their biggest lead of the game (56-36) with a three-point dagger. The home team closed the
quarter up 60-39 with Burnett wooing the small crowd with his finishing ability from the paint. Squires began the fi-
nal quarter with back-toback shots from downtown as Guyana ‘balled’ to its third consecutive victory.
Wednesday November 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Guyanese anticipate series sweep against Antigua tonight -thrash visitors for 3-0 lead in first game at CASH By Edison Jefford Guyana’s All-Star Basketball team is poised to complete a series sweep at C l i ff A n d e r s o n S p o r t s Hall (CASH) tonight after beating an Antiguan All-Star team Monday night at the same venue t o t a k e a 3-0 lead in a four-game goodwill series. Guyana thrashed the visitors 83-57 to follow up on wins at the MSC Hard Court in Linden, and Burnham Basketball Court last weekend. The fourth and final game will be held tonight with the Guyanese anticipating an extension of dominance. Guard, Jason Squires gifted himself 18 points ahead of his birthday yesterday to lead Guyana’s offence. Point guard, Travis Burnett was spectacular again with 16 points, while forward Akeem Kanhai supported with 13 points. For the Antiguans, Kareem Meade had 15 points, while Adisa Harris supported with nine points. Kareem Edwards and Dale Gore supported with seven points each. Guyana had taken a104 lead with a Burnett fastb r e a k f i n i s h m idway through the first quarter, but Antigua went on an 8-3 run to haul them to within one 12-13 before Harris equalised at 14-14 with a minute to play in the quarter that ended with a 1616 deadlock. Meade landed back-toback three-point jumpers to help the visitors to a 22-16 lead, but the spark of Nikkoloi Smith and Dominic Vincente ignited at the right time with Vincente nailing a 15-foot jumper and Smith finishing a left-handed lay-up to give Guyana a 24-22 lead five minutes before half-time.
The pendulum swung again when Antigua’s Marlon Charles gave his team a 30-27 lead with just under a minute left before the break, as turnovers and missed attempts at the rim somehow crept into the Guyanese game in the latter half of the quarter. Burnett finished a floater in the lane to ensure a onepoint disadvantage (29-30) at halftime. But the Antiguans went scoreless in the first three minutes of the third period as the Guyanese raced to a 35-30 lead, compliment of a 6-0 run. Guyana continued the offensive surge with Kanhai crowning the moment with a one-handed dunk. Antigua scored just two points in the first five minutes of the third quarter to emphasise an offensive meltdown. Squires gave the Guyanese their biggest lead of the game (56-36) with a three-point dagger. The home team closed the
quarter up 60-39 with Burnett wooing the small crowd with his finishing ability from the paint. Squires began the fi-
nal quarter with back-toback shots from downtown as Guyana ‘balled’ to its third consecutive victory.
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
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2015 NBS Second Division forty-over cricket competition in Berbice
Avinash Looknauth’s 54 not out steers Tamarind Root to Playoffs Tamarind Root Cricket Club of Hampshire, Corentyne completed a clean sweep of the Zone J preliminary rounds when they beat Rose Hall Town Bakewell B to end as winners of that zone to earn their place in the last 16th playoffs of the 2015 New Building Society Second Division 40-Over Cricket Competition in Berbice. In the match former Berbice Under-19 offspinner Adrian Niroj Singh and left arm spinner Kunal Mangal each took 3 for 17 to bowl out Rose Hall for 120 in 29.1 Overs. Then opening batsmen Avinash Looknauth scored 54 N.O (3 fours and 4 sixes) to steer them to an easy 7-wicket win. In another match, Berbice Under-15 batsman Alex Algoo slammed 86 ( 9 fours and 1 six) and former Berbice allrounder Balram Samaroo 56 (3 fours) to guide Fort Canje Warriors to 252 for 5 in 35-Overs against Canefield who were then bowled out for 116 in reply with Warriors offspinner Charran Singh taking 5 for 25 from 7-Overs. Also scoring half
centuries were former Berbice Under-19 batsmen Hakeem Hinds of Tucber Park and Sanjay Badal of Canje Pathfinders. In summarised scores: At Hampshire: Tamarind Root beat Rose Hall Town Bakewell B by 7 wickets. R o s e H a l l To w n Bakewell B 120 in 29.1 Overs. Adrian Niroj Singh 3 for 17 and Kunal Mangal 3 for 17. Tamarind Root 121 for 3 in 16-Overs with Avinash Looknauth 54 N.O. At Cumberland: Fort C a n j e Wa r r i o r s b e a t Canefield by 136 runs. Fort Canje Warriors 252 for 5 in 35-Overs with Alex Algoo 86, Balram Samaroo 56, Royden Phil 33. Satesh Rupai 3 for 21 was the best bowler for Canefield Sports Club. Canefield replied with 116 in 33-Overs with Rayon Sunthgolam 33. Charran Singh 5 for 25 and Balram Samaroo 2 for 7 were the best bowlers for the host. At Edinburgh: Tucber Park beat Angoy’s Avenue Achievers by 57 runs. Tucber Park 154 for 5 in 20-Overs with Hakeem Hinds 52, Chetram Persaud 25 and Teron Sampson 2 for
Number of changes made to Guyana Cup Re-match 2015 horserace meet Set for Sunday December 20th at PMTC With less than three weeks to go before race date the organisers of the second Guyana Cup Re-match horserace meet has made some changes to the programme to accommodate more horses. The event is set for Sunday 20th December at the Port Mourant Turf Club (PMTC) and is organised by the Jumbo Jet Auto Sales and Racing Stables in collaboration with the PMTC. The major change has seen the addition of two new events and the dropping of one to cater for more horses while a few distances have been adjusted due to numerous requests by horse owners. There is an event now for F3 and lower horses and Guyana Bred two years old animals, while the Event for G1 and lower horses has been dropped. The full lists of events are as follows: The feature event is for animals classified A1 and lower which has a whopping $1.2M available for the winner from a sumptuous $3M prize package and trophy over 1800M. The event for E1 and lower horses will not cater for 4 year old animals anymore, but two years old American bred maiden horses with the distance now 1000M. The first prize remains $800,000 and trophy. In the three year old West Indies and Guyana bred event which is a 1500M affair, will be for a winning purse of (Continued on page 32)
1 8 . A n g o y ’s Av e n u e Achievers in reply made 97 for 6 in 20-Overs with Keion De Jesus taking 3 for 11 and Julian Moore 2 for 14. At Goed Bananen Land: Canje Pathfinders beat Betsy Ground Strykers by 5 wickets.
Betsy Ground Strykers 120 all out in 23.2 Overs with Collis Greaves taking 4 for 20 and Keisher Gangaram 3 for 25. Canje Pathfinders in reply made 125 for 5 in 14.5 Overs with Sanjay Badal 57.
Alex Algoo
Balram Samaroo
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Back yourselves against Aussies, Richardson tells Windies BRISBANE, Australia (AFP) – Caribbean great Richie Richardson Tuesday urged the maligned West Indian tourists to back themselves and take on Australia in the coming three-Test series. The Windies are a pale imitation of their glory days a quarter of a century ago and have been largely written off by the pundits as they embark on their tour of Australia.
The West Indies, who have a four-day warm-up game against a Cricket Australia XI starting in Brisbane on Wednesday, last won a Test in Australia in 1997 and last won a series Down Under in 1992-93. But Richardson, the Windies team manager, called on his young and inexperienced touring team to believe they can upset Steve Smith’s Australians on their own pitches.
The second-ranked Australians are expected to be too strong for the eighthrated West Indies in the three-Test series, starting in Hobart on December 10. “I really don’t see question marks and I hope the players aren’t thinking that way either because that is negative,” Richardson told reporters. “ We h a v e t o b a c k ourselves and look to win. We have a young team we
are moulding. “Our players will be looking to establish themselves and gain as much experience as possible.” Richardson said he has been trying to instill some self-belief in the West Indies team, skippered by young paceman Jason Holder. “When I played the game I never underestimated anyone,” he said. “On any given day you can get the better of
West Indies team manager Sir Richie Richardson (Photo: AFP) somebody, but you have to back yourselves. “That’s how I played the game and that’s how I talk to the players. You have to believe you can conquer. “If you do that you start to gain respect, you start to find yourself being on
the same level as them and probably going past them.” Richardson, 53, was one of the West Indies’ greatest batsmen, scoring 16 centuries in 86 Tests at 44.39 before his retirement in 1995.
SCG’s Trophy Stall 10/10 Tapeball cricket
Quarterfinals set for Sunday in Soesdyke The Soesdyke Cricket Group (SCG) has collaborated with Trophy Stall to stage the 16-team 10/10 Tapeball cricket tournament, which began on October 11 and the Quarterfinals will be contested on Sunday December 6 at the Soesdyke Community ground. The semi-finals and Final are scheduled for December 19 from 09:30hrs and the teams will vie for the winner’s prize of $100,000 and the championship Trophy, while runner up will collect $50,000 and a Trophy, while the third placed team receives $25,000 and a Trophy. The tournament, which involves 16 teams from Little Diamond to Timehri on the East Bank and inclusive of Kuru Kuru and
Ya r r o k a b r a o n t h e Highway, is down to its last eight and after this weekend’s action the final four will emerge. This Sunday Friendship battle Hillfoot, Kuru-Kuru take on King’s X1, Rubis oppose Soesdyke Vishnu Mandir and Airport face-off with Sarah Johanna in the quarterfinal action. The first semi-final will be between the winner of quarterfinal 1 & 3, while the second semi will be between the winner of quarter final 2 & 4, while the grand finale will be played under lights. The MVP ($10,000 & Trophy), Batsman with the Most runs ($10, 000 & trophy), Bowler with the Most wickets ($10,000 & trophy) and the MVP in the final will all be rewarded for their efforts and admission is free.
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
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P&P Insurance Brokers sponsored GSSF Practical Pistol Match set for this weekend Local practical shooters will participate in a Practical Pistol Match which has been exclusively sponsored by P&P Insurance Brokers and Consultants Limited and hosted by the Guyana Sport Shooting Federation. This much anticipated competition will be held at the GDF’s Timehri Ranges this weekend. President of the Federation Ms. Vidushi Persaud, in her remarks said the match will usher in the Christmas season and hopefully brings lots of cheer to the members and local pistol aces as they compete in the final competition for the GSSF’s calendar year. Competitors will be separated into two divisions based on their firearm setup: Production Division (for out of the factory firearms) and Standard Division (where some add-ons and higher end aftermarket parts are allowed.) She went on to note that local Regional Director for IPSC, Mr. Harold Hopkinson has been instrumental in encouraging local shooters and the attendance of a number of practical shooters of Guyana will be facilitated to test their ability to balance the
three elements of practical shooting: Speed, Power and Accuracy. Built around s afety, the s port simultaneously measures the ability of the competitor to shoot rapidly and accurately with a full powered gun in a fun, fair, and competitive environment. Match Director Mr. Ryan McKinnon noted with sponsorship from P&P Insurance Brokers & Consultants Limited, excellent prizes for the Top Three Overall Shooters in each division will be made available. He also indicated that the stages for the match were designed to be dynamic and free style, in that there is no set arrangement of the targets, thus the shooter will have to choose their order of engagement as targets become visible. Safety for all will come first and will be monitored by several experienced range officials and ranks of the Guyana Police Force. At the small ceremony at P&P Insurance Brokers and Consultants Ltd’s office located at Lot 35 North and King Streets, Georgetown, President of the GSSF, Ms. Vi d u s h i P e r s a u d , i n accepting the kind
Hopetown United overcome Media XI
Arthley Bailey (left) and Kwasie Mentore Host Hopetown United of West Coast Berbice defeated the Media XI by six wickets in a T20 game played on Sunday last. Batting first, the Media were sent packing for 75 in 18 overs with Shahrukh Imran scoring 12 and extras contributed 20. Kwasie Mentore grabbed 5-10 and Arthley Bailey 2-7. Hopetown United replied with 77-4 in 12.4 overs. Bailey struck 34 and Troy Halley 21; Imran, Jermain Neblett and Ravi Persaud claimed one wicket each.
sponsorship, conveyed thanks to the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Bishwa Panday, who unhesitatingly came on board to support the sport shooting fraternity. She commended him for his support of various sporting disciplines in Guyana and thanked him for helping to promote sport shooting. For more information on the Guyana Sport Shooting Federation interested persons can visit the website www.GuyanaSportShooting .com.
Ms. Subrena Ishmile (left) of P&P Insurance Brokers and Consultants Ltd. Hands over the sponsorship to GSSF President, Ms. Vidushi Persaud in the presence of GSSF Board Member, Dr. Pravesh Harry.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 02, 2015
West Indies in Australia 2015-16
Coulter-Nile called up for Hobart Test ESPNcricinfo - In announcing a Test squad that includes Nathan CoulterNile despite his total lack of recent Sheffield Shield cricket, the selection chairman Rod Marsh made the startling admission Mitchell Starc may have played his last international match of the season. Starc’s broken foot and ankle spurs were thought to have a recovery time frame allowing him to make February’s New Zealand tour, but Marsh contended that the left-armer would miss that trip and also be doubtful for the World Twenty20 that follows. “In an ideal world ... we’d love to have Mitchell Starc playing against New Zealand in the Test series [in February],” Marsh said. “I don’t think that will happen. In an ideal world we’d like to have him playing in the [Twenty20] world cup. It ‘may’ happen. “If it’s two different lots of surgery then we mightn’t see much of Mitchell for a little while. And you’ve got to think of the kid’s health, and the medical people always keep that in mind. He’ll be back when he’s back. In the meantime we’ve got to get on with it. “I’ve said, I don’t know how many times, that we’ve got to have a battery of 10 fast bowlers. I know everyone out there looks at me as if I’m an idiot when I say that, but I tell you what,
Nathan Coulter-Nile has played ODIs and T20s for Australia and is now in the Test squad © Getty Images
we’ve got to have a battery of 10 fast bowlers. “If we come up now with a good attack for this Test match, which we think we have, and for the following two Test matches, and the one after that and the one after that, we’ll have called on a lot of fast bowlers. That’s one thing I can promise you, because they just don’t get through a lot of Test matches in a row.” By way of clarification, Cricket Australia released a statement by the team physio David Beakley, stating that Starc did not require surgery for his current injury: “Given that Mitchell now has a lay-off with his foot injury we will take this opportunity to meet with specialists in Sydney this week to get an opinion on whether or not surgery is required at this point in time for his ongoing ankle issues.
“We will look to provide an update later in the week but at this stage we do not have confirmed timeframes for his return to play.” In addition to CoulterNile, the Victoria fast bowler Scott Boland has been named as a standby player in case any of the bowlers struggle to recover after the win over New Zealand in Adelaide. James Pattinson has retained his place in the 12-man squad and is the likely replacement in the XI for Starc. Coulter-Nile, 28, has been included in the 12 for the Bellerive Test against the West Indies despite not playing any Sheffield Shield matches so far this summer. He played in the Matador Cup but a shoulder injury sidelined him from the start of the Shield season, and he was then suspended from Western Australia’s most
recent match after showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during a Futures League game against Queensland last week. Last summer he underwent surgery for a problematic hamstring. “Once Mitchell Starc went down I think everyone’s mind went straight to Nathan CoulterNile,” Marsh said. “We’ve had our eye on him for a long time and we’ve been very pleased with the way he’s gone when he has played but as you all know he’s also been a fast bowler who hasn’t been injury free and I guess we’re at a situation now where because of the two Mitchells, one retiring and one being injured that
we do need a bit of pace up front. “He comes back well. Fresh. He came back very well, fresh in the Australia A series in India earlier this year so we’re not too concerned about that. In an ideal world yes, it would have been good if he had been playing Shield cricket the whole season and taken 40 wickets, in an ideal world. But we don’t get too many of them so we’ll go with our gut feeling on Coulter-Nile, we like him as a bowler.” Coulter-Nile will come into contention for Hobart if any of the fast men succumb to injury or fitness concerns H a z l e w o o d ’s h e a v y workload and a back spasm for Peter Siddle in Adelaide
makes this a distinct possibility. That would bring Boland, 26, into the squad. A fast bowler with 71 firstclass wickets at 30.14, Boland this summer has 12 wickets at 12.58 from three Shield games, and he picked up a career-best 7 for 31 against Western Australia in the last round. “It’s a really good story him I reckon, the fact he’s snuck under the radar,” Marsh said of Boland. “He’s not necessarily a fashionable bowler, but you remember he kept Siddle out of the Matador Cup, so the Victoria coach David Saker thinks a hell of a lot of him, he’s seen a lot of fast bowling in his time. So it’s a very pleasant (Continued on page 32)
Primary Schools Minor league 10/10 off to bright start The Minor league 10/10 softball cricket tournament sponsored by Rohan’s Furniture Establishment, Parboo’s General Store and Promoter Nigel and organized by the Guyana Softball League (GSL) started on a bright note over last weekend with some scintillating play by the youngsters far beyond their years. The tournament was opened by the President of the GSL Halim Khan and in his remarks reminded the teams and representatives
that their attitude will determine their altitude not only in the game of cricket but in everything they do be it academics or those inclined to sports. In order for any player or team to forge a name for themselves, sacrifices must be made by all. Youth Coordinator Prem Persaud said that this is the first of the many initiatives to come from the GSL. “Our expectations from schools and the representatives who are teachers of the various schools that the discipline of the teams is a direct result of what they themselves instill in the students,” Persaud added. Khan exhorted the schools to interact with the others, always show respect for the game and learn the regulations which is at their disposal. The first game was an exhibition match between Cornelia Ida (CI) and Leonora Primary. Both teams and their supporters erupted with glee as the contest ebbed and flowed before CI won by five wickets with three balls to spare. Leonora Primary School batted first and reached 69-6 in 10 overs with Aryan Batool top scoring with 14. CI, whose strength is their bowling, were indebted to Irfan Hussein 2-10 and Keshan Sugrim with 2-2 in one over.
CI started brightly with f e m a l e b a t t e r Va r u n i Pitamber playing sensibly and putting away the bad balls, but once she was run out, the tempo slowed and CI were only able to achieve their target through overthrows due to some poor fielding. In the opening match of the tournament Leonora Primary defeated Tuschen Primary after electing to bat and were off to a ‘flyer’ with Renaldo Scotten using his strength to muscle the bowling as the Leonora bowlers had no answer to his onslaught. But with his score on 35 decorated with six boundaries, a wonderful piece of fielding by the skipper Aryan Persaud resulted in him being run out to change the complexion of the game and limit Tuschen to 90-9 in 10 overs. Leonora’ Skipper led from the front by snapping up 2-14 from his 2 overs and Leonora began their run chase Persaud returned with the bat and showed his players how it is done with a responsible unbeaten 35 with two sixes and a four to his lead his team to victory. Leonora Primary achieved their target, scoring 92-5 in 9.2 overs. The next round is slated for Saturday from 09:00 when Uitvlugt Primary faceoff with Greenwich Park Primary and CI play MetenMeer-Zorg Primary.
Wednesday December 02, 2015
Kaieteur News
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GFF President concerned about UDFA suspends activities Elite League clubs sustainability to accommodate GTT / - Praises teams for high level of competitiveness President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde, while praising the high level of competitiveness in the just concluded STAG Elite League (Genesis), also said that he’s concerned about the participating clubs being able to sustain themselves. Slingerz Football Club defeated Alpha United 3 – 2 on Sunday last at the Leonora Stadium to hoist the coveted title and the $4M first prize with Forde highlighting that the, “Elite league is a remarkable tournament and Guyana definitely needs to get into the semi-pro and ultimately the professional football environment.” Forde stated that while the league presented its fair share of challenges, “My primary concern with regards to the league is how would the clubs sustain themselves and continue to participate because it imposes a financial burden on them and that is the solution the GFF needs to lead in solving, because it’s
Wayne Forde important to Guyana that we have a semi-professional league that’s sustains itself over the long run.” He further added, “The conclusion of the Genesis half of the league is tremendous, we had the crowd support and participation that reflect the kind of momentum that the league has enjoyed over the past couple of months.” Ansa McAl, under their STAG Beer brand is the
league’s title sponsor, with COURTS Guyana Inc, the Government of Guyana and E-Networks being other contributors to the league. Forde was however adamant that for the league to really reach its full potential, corporate Guyana will have to play a part in helping to give the players and football fans a league which Guyana deserves. Looking ahead, Forde promised a better league, while noting, “We have about just about two months to sit and see how much we can improve the league. There’s no limit to how much we can improve things and it’s important also, that we get the best league possible.” The STAG Elite League (Finale) will resume next February, where the eight participating clubs (Slingerz, Pele, Fruta Conquerors, Alpha United, Buxton United, GFC, Monedderlust and GDF) will attempt to outduel each other for the overall crown.
Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition
Debutants holding their own so far The business end of the Georgetown Zone of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition begins in earnest tonight with the commencement of the knockout phase, at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac and even the most serious pundit is getting difficulty predicting who w i l l w i n t h i s y e a r ’s competition. It seems as though every remaining team has a legitimate chance of advancing to the national playoffs judging from the performances of many of the teams, especially the debutants who have been giving a good account of themselves against some of the more established teams in the tournament. Teams such as Upsetters, Old School Ballers, Channel 9, Jamoon Drive and Shopping Plaza appear not to be fazed by the reputation of the more experienced teams and this has made
picking a winner a tricky undertaking. National champions Sparta Boss is still a potent team to face, but inaugural champions Back Circle proved that they are beatable after registering a morale boosting 2-1 win in their last encounter. The most consistent team to date has been West Front Road ‘Gold is Money’, but they too have to be mindful of the up-started debutants Shopping Plaza who they collide with tonight. Reigning G/town champions North Ruimveldt clash with West Back Road and this encounter promises fireworks from the opening whistle since both teams love to go on the offensive early. Another former champion Leopold Street should be aware of the challenge that Channel 9 could offer and is therefore being cautioned not to underestimate the first timers who’ve not performed too
badly. With a total of over $1million up for grabs the positioning for places in the final four plus two spots in the national playoffs could get very exciting and the fans who continue to respond in large numbers could be the real winners tonight. The full fixtures are seen below: 19:00 hrs East Front Road v/s Upsetters 19:30 hrs North East La Penitence v/s Stevedore Housing Scheme 20:00 hrs B e n t Street v/s O l d School Ballers 20:30 hrs West Back Road v/s North Ruimveldt 21:00 hrs Leopold Street v/s Channel 9 21:30 hrs B a c k Circle v/s Jamoon Drive 22:00 hrs W e s t Front Road v/s Shopping Plaza 22:30 hrs Sparta Boss v/s Hope Street- Tiger Bay
Limacol final on Sunday Despite the initial challenges faced by the Petra Organisation, the Organisers of the GTT / Limacol Round Robin / Knockout Football Competition have confirmed that the finals will be played t h i s S u n d a y, a t t h e Mackenzie Sports Club in Linden. According to CoDirector of the Organisation Troy Mendonca, Secretary of the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA) Terrence Mitchell make contact with them and confirmed that all football activities organized by the UDFA has been suspended to accommodate the staging of the grand finale that pits Linden’s Milerock and East Coast Demerara Victoria Kings. Mendonca disclosed that UDFA President Sharma Solomon met with the executive in an emergency meeting Monday night to discuss how best they could facilitate the request made by the Petra Organisation to stage the final in the Mining Town on Sunday and they agreed to put on hold their own League until next year. Mendonca said that they
Sharma Solomon
Troy Mendonca
(Petra Organisation) was extremely grateful to the executive of the UDFA in agreeing to accommodate the final at a time when they too have ongoing football activities. He added that for the UDFA to suspend their own activities at the expense of the Petra Organisation speaks volumes of the entity and its willingness to put football first. The UDFA is scheduled to commence their yearend tournament shortly and with three teams set to appear on Sunday, two in the third
place playoff and one in the final must be seen as solid preparations for them. Mendonca stated that the UDFA League will break on Friday instead of the initial plan which was next Wednesday and this course of action must be recognized and applauded. Meanwhile, the third place playoff is an allLinden affair between Topp XX, who lost to Victoria Kings and Winners Connection that fell to Milerock in semi-final action, at the Victoria Community Centre ground.
FITNESS EXPRESS CONTINUES ITS SUPPORT FOR BODYBUILDING Fitness Express, renowned retailer of sports and exercise equipment and health and nutrition supplements, is once again lending its support to the cause of bodybuilding and fitness in its part sponsorship of the December 6 Flex Night International event. Wi n n e r s o f s p e c i f i c categories on Sunday can expect to be taking home nutritional supplements, compliments of Fitness Express. At their Sheriff Street location, Manager of Fitness Express Jamie McDonald presented a cheque to David Gomes, Flex Night Inc. Director of External Resources to aid the successful hosting of the event. Flex Night Inc. e x p re s s e d i t s d e e p e s t gratitude to Fitness Express for the support rendered to t h e F l e x N i g h t International 2015.
Manager of Fitness Express Jamie McDonald (right) presents a cheque to David Gomes, Flex Night Inc. Director of External Resources.
t r o Sp Guyanese anticipate series Holder wants fearless Windies sweep against Antigua tonight -thrash visitors to confront Aussies for 3-0 lead in first game at CASH
Jason Holder
Guyana’s Travis Burnett (right) forces a fade-away jumper from Antigua’s Adisa Harris Monday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
GFF President Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition concerned about Elite League clubs sustainability - Praises teams for high level of competitiveness
Debutants holding their own so far
Back yourselves against Aussies, Richardson tells Windies
UDFA suspends activities to accommodate GTT / Limacol final on Sunday
Part of the action in the Georgetown Zone of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition.
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