Wednesday December 05, 2018
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Kaieteur News
President Granger leaves for second of six rounds of chemo
President David Granger and First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Timehri, yesterday morning. President David Granger is set to undergo another round of chemotherapy treatment that will continue in a schedule that will conclude in May. Yesterday, the Head of
State left for Cuba for what would be the second of six such engagements. It will be recalled that President Granger and First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger had trav-
elled to Cuba on October 30, last, for a medical investigation of the President. After an intensive series of tests by specialist doctors, he was diagnosed with nonHodgkin’s Lymphoma, a cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, the diseasefighting network throughout the body. In non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, tumors develop from lymphocytes — a type of white blood cell. The President and his wife returned to Guyana from Cuba on November 20, after a number of medical interventions, including the first round of chemotherapy treatment, were performed. In Cuba the second round of treatment will take place at the Centro de Investigaciones Médico Quirúrgicas (CIMEQ). The President, who is accompanied by the First Lady, told the Ministry of the Presidency’s Public Information and Press Services (PIPS) Unit, prior to his departure from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) that CIMEQ has drafted a sched-
Bar agencies that fail to account for public spending - Ram Agencies that are not operating in outside the realm of transparency and accountability as it relates to spending should not benefit from the disbursement of public funds. This view is expressed by Political Commentator and Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram. Ram was at the time commenting on the 2019 budgetary allocations for the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) under the Ministry of Business. During the budget debates in Parliament, on Monday, Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin revealed that for 2019, the GTA and the Department of Tourism will receive budgetary allocations of $305M and $93M respectively. However, it was also revealed during the debates that spending for a number of agencies, including the GTA, were unaccounted for by the Auditor General. In his report for 2017, Auditor General (AG) Deodat Sharma highlighted the fact that the GTA has failed to submit financial statements to be audited since 2005. The AG’s 2017 report had recommended that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Business, make efforts to have the outstanding statements laid in the National Assembly and the Audit Office for adequate examination. Alluding to the recommendations made in the AG’s report, Ram in an invited comment stressed the importance of having each agency accountable for its expenditure. “We cannot have agencies collecting monies without a trace of where the monies are spent. I think this is clearly a problem across the board. More consideration should be given to which agency benefits from the budget.” The government should have some mechanism in place to stop these agencies from collecting monies, especially when there is no trace of their spending. “If these agencies are not accountable for their spending, why allocate the funds?” Ram
asked. Similar sentiments were expressed by President of Transparency International, Dr. Troy Thomas. Briefly commenting on the issue, Dr. Thomas noted that agencies across the board must account for public monies. “This is not an issue for just one agency. Therefore, the method of ensuring accountability should be applied across the board.” On Monday, Minister Gaskin told the National Assembly that there has been a steady increase in the budgetary appropriation for the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) from $123M in 2014 to over $300M in 2019. He reminded that the responsibility for tourism development in Guyana falls under the Ministry of Business, and is carried out by the Department of Tourism and the Guyana Tourism Authority, with the Department being responsible for policy and strategic direction and the Authority responsible for implementation in the areas of marketing, product development and licensing and regulation. Gaskin said, “And just as an aside, when I inherited responsibility for this agency, it had never, I repeat, never since its inception in 2002, presented to the National Assembly, its audited financial statements. “It did not even have audited financial statements for the years 2002 to 2015, and we have had to spend an inordinate amount of time and effort going back and putting this in order, and we anticipate that sometime in 2019, we will finally be up-to-date with the annual reports for all the agencies of the Ministry of Business.” The Business Minister pointed to the scant regard that the previous administration gave to accountability and transparency while in government. “I also wish to reassure this House that while we may be spending much more money on tourism than the previous government, we are also ensuring that there is accountability and transparency in the spending of that money.”
ule of treatment, which will run until May 2019. “In my first visit, I had not only the biopsy, but a series of tests and examinations, and I also had my first cycle of chemotherapy. I now have to return for succeeding five cycles, so this is the second cycle and I hope to return much more quickly than I did the first visit, because this is simply the administration of chemotherapy, so presumably after the tests which will be done today, Tuesday, I will have the chemotherapy and return by weekend,” President Granger said. The Head of State said too that after this round of treatment, he will have to return to Cuba later this month for the third cycle of chemotherapy. “I expect that by the start of the new year my progress, which has been gradual so far,
will be sufficient to allow me to take on more duties,” he said. Meanwhile, the President expressed much gratitude to all who sent their well wishes for his full and complete recovery. “I think my illness, although personally unfortunate, has brought forth a response by the Guyanese public, not to a politician, not to a political leader, but to a national President. I think they feel the presidency is what is being jeopardised by this threat to my health and I think what I have seen so far, both privately and publicly, are favourable national concerns that the Head of State, whomever he may be, should enjoy the best health,” he said. President Granger also thanked Caribbean Heads of Government, business leaders, his colleagues, the
churches and the public - particularly those who held vigils while he was in Cuba - for their prayers and support. “I am encouraged and, you know, in certain medical situations, that psychological and psyche factors are very important. I am very grateful, very thankful. I look forward to resuming my full duties as early as possible,” the Head of State said. The President’s illness does not have the administration worried, assured Minister of State, Joseph Harmon last week. In fact, based on the prognosis, Harmon said, it is expected that President Granger will remain at the helm of the country to continue his policies. There is no contemplation of a successor at this time, he said. The former army chief is 73.
Theft of model planes…
Four police band members to face departmental charges Four Guyana Police Force band members are to face departmental charges over the theft of model planes from the Arthur Chung Convention Centre. Crime Chief Lyndon Alves said that this decision was made after police sought legal advice. Meanwhile, the ranks are back on the job. Eight members of the Police Force band were initially placed under close arrest. A Lance Corporal was among
the detained ranks. The planes were among others on display last week at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, where Guyana was hosting the 2018 International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Air Transport meeting. It is believed that the band members swiped the planes while performing at a cocktail at the same Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara venue. Some of the policemen are said to have told investigators
that they planned to give their nephews and other young relatives as gift items for Christmas. Kaieteur News understands officials only realised that the planes were missing when the event ended. According to a source, the ranks initially denied stealing the models. However, footage from the security cameras reportedly showed some of the band members removing the expensive model aircraft.
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
KAIETEUR NEWS Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: ADAM HARRIS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
EATING DISORDERS AMONG TEENAGERS
T
he aim of most teachers, parents or guardians, as well as faith based business and community or ganizations in Guyana and elsewhere, is to prepare children for a bright future. During this period of their intellectual growth, development and advancement, children should not only be taught academic and technical vocational skills, but also good moral values, principles and discipline, which are critical elements in shaping their character. In today’s society, technology, peers and family members have played and continue to play a major role in influencing the decisions of children. Being an adolescent today is an exciting and somewhat challenging period in human development. Studies have shown that adolescents experience rapid growth that is noticeable in their physical and psychosocial health. It is believed that this generation of children mature earlier than past generations in their thinking, behaviour and emotional functioning, and they have become more independent. Being accepted by friends and peers and sharing opinions are more important for many than cherished family values. Experts have contended that such behaviours tend to create conflicts between teens, their parents or family members, and others in authority. From early to late adolescence, most teenagers tend to cast-off societal norms and family values as they become preoccupied with the size, shape and image of their bodies; peer influence and their ability to think and reason. They have become more independent as they develop their own set of core values to guide their moral and ethical decisions. Good nutrition is essential for their development in this period, but their psychosocial development may positively or negatively impact their health choices. In general, girls more than boys are obsessed with their body image and the intense fear of being overweight, even if they are not. This type of distortion of body image has led many to restrict their calories intake by consuming little. They have also avoided nutritious foods or even skipped meals regularly and have engaged in exercise for lengthy periods of time because of their fear of gaining weight. Their poor eating habits and obsessive weight control have impacted their health and, in some cases, have contributed to eating disorders. An example of such a eating disorder is anorexia nervosa, which is characterized by abnormally low body weight. Another is bulimia nervosa which involves bingeeating episodes, self-induced vomiting, and the misuse of laxatives, as well as fasting or participating in excessive exercise. Whatever the case, eating disorders can affect the health of children, teens, and adults and would require medical advice. Given all of the above, one can conclude that adolescents’ dietary intakes can vary due to several influencing factors, which when examined may not necessarily be the best. Generally, good dietary practices among this specific targeted population have been affected by skipping a meal or two, excessive eating of snacks that are usually high in fat, sugar, and salt and greater consumption of sugary beverages. Therefore to support human growth and development, proper eating habits are beneficial, in that they contribute to healthy bones and skin, as well as boosting the immune system. Lower intake of calories has led to potential risk for dental care, eating disorders, and malnutrition and iron deficiency anemia. Food nutritionists have contended that a balanced diet with adequate macro and micronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, protein, vitamins and minerals, and water) will help teens to meet their daily nutritional requirements without gaining weight. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to make available to their children, healthy food choices. Fruits, vegetables, peas and beans, and foods from the staples and from animals’ food groups and the consumption of adequate water intake should be prioritized.
Borrowing could lead to an economic crisis DEAR EDITOR, I am no Economist but one does not have to be good at Economics to know that in an environment of declining production, it is not possible to grow the economy to any significant level. The 2019 Budget presentation by Finance Minister Winston Jordan has only served to confirm my worst fear; namely, that the key productive sectors of the economy have experienced significant shortfall in production levels. I refer specifically to rice, sugar, forestry and mining. Make no mistake about it. It is the export of goods and services that is the bedrock of economic growth. It is
through export earnings that the country gains its foreign exchange, which in turn it utilizes to import consumer goods into the country. In a situation of declining exports, pressure is put on the exchange rate, which can result in inflation and currency depreciation. Raising revenues by way of taxation does not create wealth. What it does is to redistribute money by way of budgetary measures to meet Government expenditures. Guyana had experienced these in the past especially during the late 1970s when the country suffered from a severe production crisis. This in turn led to a deepening social and political cri-
sis where at one time we were ranked among the poorest countries in the western hemisphere. The economic and social fabric of the country took a severe battering, which one labour leader described as a ‘crisis of confidence.’ There is a dialectical relationship between the economy and the other sectors, in particular the social sectors. When the economy contracts it takes the other sectors down with it. During the late 1970s and the early 1990s, the country registered a prolonged period of negative growth. The country was deemed uncreditworthy by the IMF
after it failed to honour its debt obligations to multilateral lending institutions. We have to be careful that we do not go down that road once again. We borrowed so heavily that our debt payments became a windmill around our necks. While there is the prospect of oil looming in the horizon, we have to be careful that we do not engage in unnecessary and reckless borrowing and spending. The debt burden is already growing at an alarming rate, which when coupled with falling production and declining reserves could prove disastrous. Hydar Ally
Unbecoming behaviour, in a ‘just so’ society DEAR EDITOR, Whether we consider it a good thing or not in the Caribbean (including Guyana), we see our women as the custodians of our virtues, and our morality. This is why it offends us more when our daughters are found behaving badly as against our sons guilty of like behaviour. Similarly, we are more offended when female ministers of the government behave badly, than we are when their male counterparts are guilty of similar behaviour or even worse. But female ministers behaving badly did not start with Minister Lawrence. The problem is that we apparently tend to mostly be offended, speak out at immoral acts with racial or partisan connotations. How else do we explain our relative silence as a people, when years ago a senior female minister saw it fit to mock the then president Hoyte at a time of his bereavement, claiming he did not cry on the death of his children (her insensitive way of suggesting that he was uncaring)? Or our silence when another minister suggested that women of a certain race prefer to be raped than have their hair cut? Both are unbecoming, weird and/or atrocious statements. It was our silence on these types of nastiness that allowed for this behaviour to fester. So, while we are right to criticize Minister Lawrence, as a people, we are not innocent in this matter. Our relative silence on all the above matters has taught our younger female politicians that it is acceptable, alright, to mimic the disgusting behaviours of their seniors. As I suggested, those unattended behaviours have festered and have become a problem. So in recent times,
we have had a minister visit the US embassy and ‘cuss out’ the ambassador. The same minister, now a parliamentarian, suggested she was sexually assaulted in parliament, even though proof of her claim is non- existent. Yet another female minister has been accused of throwing aside a barricade so as to park her vehicle in what was/is apparently, a designated no parking area. And now another looks at her party supporters and tells them ‘is only al yuh I giving wok’ (or words to that effect)’. But is this increase in female ministers behaving badly only attributable to the young ones mimicking their seniors or our collective silence on such matters? Could there be other explanations, even as they relate to those offered above? I think so, for example - ambition. We must note that all five of the female ministers I referred to are very ambitious. Indeed, if allowed, I understand some are considering offering themselves as their party’s nominee for president. Could it be, then, that in our patriarchal society, these females have noticed that their vulgar male counterparts tend to do well, politically? Could it be therefore that they conclude that crudeness equals being macho, and they need to adopt this behaviour to be taken seriously and considered for leadership? But hold, there is a third possibility for consideration,-– failure to deliver. This Coalition government has known some notable success. On my last visit home, some of these developments were easy to see. For example, the city – still dirty, but not as much as I remember it being. On either side of the Mocha road, I noticed new housing
schemes. Merriman Mall looked modern and a place to be proud of. However, what was still noticeable is the day to day struggle of the working class to make ends meet. Could be, this obvious failure of the government to, in a significant way, improve the lives of citizens, gave rise to Minister Lawrence’s distasteful comments; comments intended to convey to supporters, ‘Keep the faith, is only we care ‘bout you?’ Some years ago, one of the two larger parties held a campaign meeting in a certain village. I happened to be visiting at the time. Before it commenced, I saw a party activist I knew. I went over and asked him what would the message be tonight, since the economy was not doing well and unemployment high? He said to me, ‘We ga fo guh tribal; tell them that things would be worse specifically fo dem, if de Opposition get in.’ Was it a similar thinking that gave rise to the minister’s moment of madness – ‘we ga fo guh tribal?’ Perhaps none of the above reasons offered will suffice, perhaps the answer involves a little bit of all the above suggested reasons. Or perhaps there is yet another possibility, and an equally embarrassing one too. I have notice, on most
occasions that we have had ministers of the government behaving badly. Their peers either adopt a position of silence or if forced to address the issue, assure us that the behaviour of the minister does not represent the person they know; that the behaviour is out of character - strange. Dr. Hollis Liverpool - the Mighty Chalkdust, in his calypso ‘Just so’ posits that in Trinidad, governments don’t plan, and both government and people do things they feel like at the moment. They do things “just so.’ Is this what friends of these misbehaving ministers and parliamentarians are suggesting? Was Dr. Liverpool singing about all of CARICOM? If so, looking at Guyana, is it fair to imagine him singing: A minister visit de US, embassy she cuss de ambassada, nasty, nasty, Just so! Just so! Just so! De chair lady, tell she party Only you I giving wok, Suh apply im-me-di-ately, Just so! Ah tell yuh, Just so! Just so! Come on ladies; morally, we have given up on the vast majority of our male politicians, you’re all we have left. You can’t continue letting us down like this – just so! Claudius Prince.
Praying for the President DEAR EDITOR The Guyana Veterans Legion GVL), on Sunday at 18:00 hours (6.00pm) held a Candlelight Prayer and Songs Service in the forecourt of their Headquarters at Carifesta Avenue. The activity which occurred immediately after the GVL‘s monthly meeting was initiated by Beverley Somerset W/SSgt (ret‘d)offered Special prayers for our President Brigadier David Arthur Granger, the nation, the Armed Forces and Military Veterans. The Prayers and Songs service was conducted by Rev Randolph Reynolds (the Legion‘s Chaplin) among others. Eon Andrews PRO(GVL)
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Minimum wage still outstanding DEAR EDITOR, Kindly permit me space in the letter column of your highly read newspaper to highlight our grave plight and suffering as a security guard employed in the private security service and working to protect government and state properties along with their workers the public servant, which include maids and sweeper cleaners. In 2013, the former PPP/C Administration raised the national minimum wage/salaries to the sum of $35,000 per month and clearly state for all workers in Guyana as publish in the National Minimum Wages/Salaries Act. After the APNU/AFC took over the administration
of governance, they have raised the national minimum wages/salaries for public servants to $50,000 per month and again in this year, it has raised the minimum wages/ salaries for public servant to $60,000 per month payable from January 1, 2017. In October 2016, as appeared in the headline on the Guyana Chronicle caption Higher Wages, Cabinet Clears new minimum wage for private sector and again on November 24, under the head line caption, new minimum wage, it was stated that the new minimum wage/salary to be paid to private sector workers in the sum of $40,000 payable from January 1, 2017. It is October 21, one year
since the order was made by cabinet and we in the security service are still waiting for the increase order to be honoured by the private security service. In August, Minister Keith Scott called on the private security service at a security service conference to honour and pay to the security guards the new minimum wage for private sector workers. But if had fallen on deaf ears, and we are still suffering hoping Minister Keith Scott will follow up and see to it that we get what we deserve as we are all workers and deserve better wages. R. Kumar Suffering security guard
THESE TRAFFIC DISRUPTIONS DURING PARLIAMENTARY SITTINGS DEAR EDITOR, Since the beginning of the eleventh biennial Parliament of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, nationals and nonnationals alike have been experiencing complete chaos, without any solution in sight. Ill-advised police officers assist in creating “bottle necks” in the central commercial areas, which greatly reduce business activities in the city. The dislocation of car and bus parks to facilitate the Parliamentary sitting causes
commuters to become confused and displaced, often leading to an upsurge in criminal activities; especially robbery of vulnerable schoolchildren and women; often without any hope of their valuables being returned or their attacker(s) being arrested and charged. I wish to suggest one of the following: •The Police Force’s Traffic Department should study the commercial map of central Georgetown to reduce the amount to traffic blockage it
imposes on the main thoroughfare of busy Georgetown. •An increased police presence is needed to assist road users to get to their various destinations in a safe and timely manner. •P.s - Relocating the Parliamentary sitting to a venue on the outskirts of Georgetown, which will result in little or no disruption to road users, business men/ women, schoolchildren and customers alike. Eshelle O. Cambridge
Slugger Williams takes a long look back DEAR EDITOR, I am a product of the NIGGER yard. I grew up in “Pakoo Dam” Wortmanville in Green and Gold rum shop yard, at D D’urban Street and Louisa Road. My upbringing was spent in “poverty in the NIGGER Yard”. Thirteen of us were the offspring of George and Lucille Williams and 11 of us lived in an 18x16 foot room. I went to Smith’s Church School on Hadfield Street and played football and Cricket for my School. I never went to Secondary (High) School, though it was only $28 per Month my parents could not have afforded it. I came through Smiths Church up to Sixth Standard at age 16 and was successful at the “School Leaving” Examination. From there on I had to work to assist in the upbringing of my siblings. Durban Street and Louisa Row was one of the places for Street corner Political Meetings. I guess it was there that my Political Interest started. I became a Political activist and remain a political activist for the past 65 years. I am now 80 years old my political party was the United Force our founder leader was Mr. Peter Stanislaus D’Aguiar, founder of now
Thirst Park, original and only owner at the time. I became a member of the G.U.Y.S (Guyana United Youth Society) an organization that was the youth are of the United Force by the year 196061. I was speaking on the political platform throughout the length and breadth of then British Guiana. There was no T.V around, Politicians had to face the populace on the street corners and if you wrong talk, there would be a brick, a bottle or a gander egg coming at you, yes, those days were challenging. I spoke on the street corner with Peter D’ Aguiar, Kit Nascimento, Ann Jardine, Sammy Arjune, “Honest” John Fernandes Snr, Randolph Cheeks (Deputy U.F Leader), Stephen Campbell (First Amerindian Member of Parliament), Dr. J.F.K Richmond, C.V TooChung. Ours was a party, not dominated by any one race. I was in the “Trenches” with the then freedom fighters against communism and colonialism (you under 50ths would not know what communism was all about) The United Force Party it’s lectures and the Party library was my University — my mentor was Kit
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Nascimento. I am concerned and I love my country it gets me annoyed when outsiders seek to castigate the land of my Birth, thank you Bharrat for denouncing that man, what I am going to write about now may cause me to get a “BUSSING — DOWN”. This present coalition Government has got to come down from the throne of “Elitism” and dwell in the real world, I have nothing against any politicians or their party. You big ones in Government (Continued on page 6)
Declaring an Unlawful and Vulgar Partisan Political Discrimination in Employment DEAR EDITOR, Please publish this letter motivated by the statement by the Chairman of the PNC, Volda Lawrence, and the Minister of Health on preference of PNC party comrades for employment and government contracts, and widely reported in the media. She was also the former Minister responsible for the labour portfolio. What a vulgar statement! However, Volda Lawrence must be commended for her honest confession of the not so subtle practice of the PNC. That position is discriminatory and unlawful as stated hereunder, The system of industrial relations is informed, influenced and functions within the norms of national legislation, international labour standards, and regional labour policy of CARICOM. The national Constitution of Guyana, the labour laws, and international labour conventions of the ILO, ratified by Guyana as treaty and international law, provide the legal basis, foundation and framework in employment by the Government, its agencies, and the social partners represented by trade unions and employers and their organizations. Together, these instruments constitute the Labour Code of Guyana. The general principles of Part 1, Chapter two of the Constitution of Guyana provide right to equality of opportunity and treatment in all aspects of employment, education, social and political life; and impose a duty on the state to protect the just rights and interests of citizens. Our Constitution on Fundamental Rights states that the Fundamental Rights and Freedoms of the individual entitle every citizen basic rights without distinction and discrimination including the right, regardless of his/her race, origin, political opinions, colour, creed or to freedom of conscience, of expres-
sion, assembly, and association. Guyana’s Prevention of Discrimination Act No. 26 of 1997 protects against Unlawful Discrimination, and prohibits discrimination on the grounds of: race, sex, religion, colour, ethnic origin, indigenous population, national extraction, social origin, economic status, political opinion, disability, family responsibilities, pregnancy, marital status, or age except for the purpose of retirement and restriction on work and employment of minors. The Act also prohibits discrimination against a person by distinction, exclusion or preference, the intent of which is to deny equality of opportunity or treatment in any employment or occupation. Under this Act, it is unlawful for any employer or his/ her agent to discriminate in relation to recruitment, selection, or employment on any grounds including discrimination in advertisement of the job; in determining who should be offered employment; in terms and conditions offered; the creation, classification or abolition of jobs; by retrenching or dismissing the employee; in conditions or work or occupational safety and health measures; or by denying access, or limiting
opportunities for advancement, promotion, transfer or training connected with employment . The International Labour Convention 111 – Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) 1958, ratified by Guyana, as an International Treaty: i) requires the promotion of equality of opportunity and treatment in relation to employment and occupation and calls on states to declare and pursue a national policy designed to eliminate all forms of discrimination; ii) defines discrimination as any distinction, exclusion or preference based on race, colour, sex, religion, political opinion, national extraction or social origin affecting equality of opportunity or treatment in employment and occupation; and iii) covers access to vocational training, employment, and terms and conditions of employment. CARICOM Declaration of Labour and Industrial Relations Principles outlines (Continued on page 6)
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The NIS payment remains illusive DEAR EDITOR, My name is Rampaul Chetaru NIS # B-6078547. I attained the age of sixty on 24th February,2018. I filed for my old age benefit on 3rd January,2018. I appeal to your newspaper to highlight the difficulties I have been enduring for the past ten months by the National Insurance scheme. On several occasions I made enquiries at the Georgetown Local Office Pensions Section and at Melanie Damishana Local Office as it relates to the status of my Old Age Benefit only to be informed that it’s in process. However some issues with my contributions on the system are affecting payment of my claim. On my recent visit to the National Insurance Scheme I was referred to the Public Re-
lations Unit where I spoke to an officer and even submitted a letter to her which was for the General Manager appealing to her to intervene to bring closure to my claim. The officer gave me all assurance that she will look into my matter to ensure closure. However when I recently enquired of the status of my Old Age Claim I was informed that my matter is still pending. I have satisfied the number of contributions to be entitled to an old age pension. However I was informed that there is an issue with my self employed contributions which is affecting my payment. After I left my job I registered with the National Insurance Scheme as a self employed contributor on the 1st October, 2006 and made pay-
ments from October 2006 to December 2010. Even with the difficulties that I face I was always punctual with my payments so why am I put to suffer because of the cancerous system within the National Insurance Scheme? I recently read of Ms. Sahadai matter vs. the National Insurance Scheme in the media and thankful enough the court made the right judgment in her matter and also for Mr. Christopher Ram endurance that ensure justice was served to his client. I appeal to the relevant authority to address my concern and bring closure to my matter since I am currently unemployed and have no other means of financial support. Sincerely, Rampaul Chetaru
Declaring an Unlawful and Vulgar ... From page 5 the general labour and industrial relations policy to which the CARICOM states aspire. The Declaration is informed by ILO Labour Standards (Conventions and Recommendations) and re-enforced these standards relating to non-discrimination in employment and occupation, and employment policy. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948 of the United Nations, Article 23 states that Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favourable conditions of work and to pro-
tection against unemployment without any discrimination. The political parties – PPP; PNC, AFC, WPA , and the Trade Unions, GTUC and FTUG and in particular President David Granger, Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, and Mr. Raphael Trotman must address the nation on their individual and party’s position on discrimination in employment. The nation awaits their responses. Yours sincerely, Joshua John.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Some security guards are being fleeced DEAR EDITOR, From a survey recently done it was discovered that many of the private security firm’s/companies are not paying their security guards the minimum wage of $255 per hour. One stunning revelation was that a firm which is in the business for over two decades is paying its guards $120 and $202 per hour. Further probing revealed that year after year the guards are promised the adjustment(s) which never materialize. Further they were told that the above mentioned rates are paid by the relevant Min-
istry/Department and in December the difference in rates will be paid retroactive to January of the said year. In December of the respective years they would receive the retroactive payments ranging from $25,000 to $40,000 which is way below $110,000 which is the least that should be paid to a worker. Note: 40 hrs per week = 2080 hrs per year by $53.00 (least difference)= $110 240.00 Most of the guards work six twelve-hour shift per week =72 hrs. What about those being paid $120 per hour?
When they question their payments, they are told that the balance is to pay their NIS & PAYE. Some are being told that they can leave the work. You and I are aware of the dangers security guards are exposed to, especially at night, so on behalf of these exploited guards many of whom are women I am appealing to the relevant authorities to intervene so that they can get their rightful due for their sweat and sacrifices. Thank you in anticipation. Yours truly, Concerned citizen
Slugger Williams takes a long look back From page 5 might have good intentions but your “Constituents” are at a loss. You are the government of the day but you fail to comprehend when every day you have to defend something or the other. Lon g a g o w e c a l l e d your attitude “Negative Politics” I know through years of political activism that the best way to defend oneself is to attack, (not physically) also when your back is against the wall, you go forward. That is the system the PPP is using; do not underrate Bharrat. He is a political strategist. This coalition government
must seek out the real politicians in their midst— Basil Williams, Amna Ali, Moses Nagamootoo. Don’t worry with those “Johnny Just come”, I will be writing regularly now that I have had my “Cataract Surgery”. It cost my family in USA US$250. I personally do not see race; I see issues. I read where someone said that Cheddi was a racist. He was not. I am around long enough and classified as a “Street Politician”. My party U.F (United Force) is not functioning, so 1,41Y I am not “Batting” for any political party or politician. I was the bodyguard
of Peter D’ Aguiar. I saved his life twice, at Perth Mahaicony and at Ruimveldt Public Road. On both occasions we were holding Public meetings (We were not hiding behind a T.V screen.) When my sight was actually gone I wrote asking the Manager of Thirst Park for some help because I was getting the royal run around at the Georgetown Hospital to have my surgery done. After two months I enquired from Mr. Reece’s Secretary. She finally told me the board did not approve. Murtland (Slugger) Williams Veteran Political Activist
Wednesday December 05, 2018
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Exxon’s 10th oil discovery makes contract with Guyana more disgusting – Chris Ram By Kiana Wilburg
W
hile some gov ernment offi cials are rejoicing over the 10th oil discovery by American oil giant, ExxonMobil, there are some concerned Guyanese who feel they have been plunged into a deeper state of worry for the nation’s future. One such person is Chartered Accountant and anticorruption advocate, Christopher Ram. During an interview with this newspaper last night, the columnist said that every time a discovery is announced, it emphasizes how absurd and irresponsible the signing of the June 2016 agreement was. Ram said, “It also means we become increasingly reliant, if not dependable on Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited and its two partners, Hess and Nexen, for our future economic development. Indeed, our future is practically in their hands now. It also demonstrates the absurdity of the massive number of blocks given to them, far in excess of what the Petroleum and Exploration Act envisaged and treated as the
maximum normal number of blocks.” The Chartered Accountant continued, “Now what is frightening is that while all of this is happening, Guyana is completely unprepared at the governmental level to deal with something of this magnitude. It is insane that 5 billion barrels of petroleum perhaps is now in the hands of a Department of Energy with a negligible number of staff and very little support facilities.” The columnist added, “The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Health and Safety (bodies), the Oil Spill Preparation Plan, the statutory framework, and the human resources, are all wholly inadequate and understaffed, even as there is an absence of regulatory legislation…At some point, we also have to say that even the President’s illness and unavailability has exacerbated an already bad situation.” TENTH DISCOVERY It was on Monday that Director of the Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe announced that ExxonMobil made its 10th discovery offshore Guyana at the Pluma-1
Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram well. This latest discovery has increased the estimated recoverable resource for the Stabroek Block to more than 5 billion oil-equivalent barrels. “This is great news for Guyana…the country is on the cusp of transformational development for current and future generations and the news of ExxonMobil’s 10th discovery offshore Guyana is expected to facilitate the
country’s realization of substantial social and economic improvements,” said an upbeat Dr. Bynoe. “Guyana is well poised to truly forge ahead in the 21st century. As a petro-development state we will, however, need to strategically invest in a people-centered and balanced manner, where we utilize our non-renewable resources for structural transformation and improving
people’s lives in the shortterm, while concomitantly providing the foundation to allow us to transition in the medium- and long-term to a post-carbon economy. “The previous recoverable resource estimate on the Stabroek Block was more than 4 billion barrels. This discovery reinforces the potential of the country being able to produce more than 750,000 barrels of oil daily by 2025, and the potential for development in the southeast section of the Stabroek Block. The Stabroek Block is 26,800 square kilometers,” Dr. Bynoe added. The Pluma-1, which is located some 17 miles (27 kilometres) south of the Turbot-1 well and follows previous discoveries on the Stabroek Block, encountered approximately 121 feet (37 metres) of high-quality, hydro-
carbon-bearing sandstone. The well was safely drilled to 16,447 feet (5,013 metres) depth in 3,340 feet (1,018 metres) of water. The Noble Tom Madden drillship began drilling on November 1, 2018. The Noble Tom Madden is expected to begin drilling the Tilapia-1 prospect located some 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometres) west of the Longtail-1 well. The Stena Carron drillship has recently completed operations at Hammerhead -1 and will soon drill its next well following scheduled maintenance.ExxonMobil, and its affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, is operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Limited holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 per cent interest.
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
Exxon continues to use its own definition of local content …But remains ready to support any possible changes in Guyana’s policy By Kiana Wilburg n the absence of a Lo cal Content Policy, USA oil giant ExxonMobil, will continue use its own definitions and terms to guide its reporting to the coalition government on its use of local content. Confirming this during an exclusive interview yesterday was head of Exxon’s Public Relations and Government Affairs Department, Deedra Moe. She noted that the company has been up to date with its reports to the government, which have to be submitted at midyear and the end of year. Further to this, Moe was asked to say if the company has sought to reassess the way in which it reports on local content given the outrage that was sparked by the contents of its first report. Moe, however, answered in the negative, while noting that Exxon sees local content as the hiring of a company with at least 51 percent ownership by locals. She said that the company does not look at the size of the contract it awards to company A as opposed to com-
I
pany B. Even if company A benefits from a substantial sum while company B does not, “it is all considered local content for us, because the transaction would not have occurred if we were not there,” Moe said. In addition to this, the Exxon official said that the company remains committed to working with the government on its efforts to create a policy. She said that Exxon will support and respect the provisions and requirements of the final document. PADDED LIST It was in June of this year that ExxonMobil provided the Government of Guyana with a list of companies it used as part of its local content obligations in the first quarter of 2018. But the list of “registered companies” is padded with the names of 41 individuals. These include Dennis Charran, Mokesh Daby, Colin Daniels, Colvin Lockhart, Kembleton Clyne, Kurt Branker, Ramesh Seebarran, Ganesh Ajodha, Gary De Jesus, and Stan Gouveia. It also duplicates the name of Ram and McRae, an
accounting firm. It is listed as Ram & Mcrae and three spaces later in the document as Rams and McRae. Speaking with Kaieteur News on the matter, two international local content experts said, “The number of companies used by ExxonMobil is immaterial. The crux of the matter is ‘the value of the investment’ made by ExxonMobil. In this regard, they said that Guyana’s Parliamentarians should call on the company to give a detailed breakdown of how many companies benefitted from US$1M, US$500,000, $100,000 and under US$50,000. “With that breakdown, you will be able to see if the country is getting chicken feed or real investment… With meaningful investment, the sectors that support the operations of the company would be able to see real expansion and development,” one of the Local Content experts explained. DOESN’T QUALIFY International Local Content Expert, Rene Tissot had told Kaieteur News that “ads in newspapers and catering and hotel services are low-
Exxon’s Senior Director of Public and Government Affairs, Deedra Moe hanging fruit…” Tissot said it is important for Governments to understand the difference between local content and spending that benefits the local economy. “If an oil company wants to do advertising for jobs or advertise something about its local branch in Guyana, then
it has to utilize the media in that country. You don’t expect them to put the advertisements in the New York Times.” Also, there are some services such as those provided by hotels and restaurants that they just don’t have a choice but to use. “This is money they
would have spent anyway and it benefits the local economy. But please, this is not local content.” Tissot added, “Local Content on the other hand, goes much deeper than this. The heart of Local Content speaks to the development of local skills, the transfer and use of technology, the expansion of local manpower and the growth of local manufacturing. “Local Content looks at the ‘value’ of the investment into these areas to such a degree that it is lasting. Local Content promotes industrialization…” The Local Content Expert said, “The depth of the investment and/or the value of the investment are crucial when referring to something as local content.” The International Advisor also said that a list with restaurants, hotels and media houses would be best described as “shallow in terms of value creation.” He said, “I would be disappointed to look back 15 years from now and see that local content in Guyana refers to ads in newspapers, catering services etc.”
Wednesday December 05, 2018
T
he government is coming under man ners from the Opposition about its stewardship of the economy. This is happening even as ExxonMobil is announcing a 10th oil find. Each new discovery makes the US$18M signing bonus even more unjust. The more oil Exxon finds, the smaller the signing bonus becomes relative to Guyana’s oil assets. The United States dollar was trading yesterday for G$210 and, in some cases, for US$212. It is therefore hard to reconcile this with the projected inflation for 2018 of 2%. It will be difficult for the public to be convinced that prices on the basket of goods used to estimate inflation moved by a mere 2% over this year. This does not accord with what consumers have been experiencing in the market. Prices have risen and their purchasing power has been eroded.
The price being demanded for United States dollars is going to lead to an increases in prices on the local economy. And this will mean higher inflation. Questions have also been raised about the make-up of the declared growth rate for 2018. There is skepticism about the projected growth of the construction sector of 12% and that of livestock by almost 30%. A 12% growth in construction is quite plausible. Guyana’s construction is not that massive. All it will take is one major project to spike growth in the sector. Investment to support the oil and gas sector in the first half of the year did just this. Therefore, the 12% growth in the construction sector, announced by the Minister of Finance, is quite realistic. What does not seem realistic is a close to 30% increase
in livestock production. Livestock is not a major export. The bulk of Guyana’s livestock production therefore has to be sold in Guyana. It is inconceivable that livestock production could have grown by almost one third, and yet this did not result in a reduction in local prices paid for livestock products. Every year, we have persons questioning the official numbers churned out by the government about the performance of the economy. This was also the case under the PPPC, when the opposition PNCR and AFC regularly questioned the declared growth and inflation rates. Statistics can be deceiving unless it is accompanied by detailed explanations. Take for example, the claim that tourism has increased. This may well be so, but how much do Venezuelans and Cubans account for the increases in visitors. There is a credibility prob-
DEM BOYS SEH
Shame on Guyana MPs
A man tell dem boys de one thing dat people have dat nobody else has is YOU. Your voice, your mind, your story, your vision. If voters did use dem things wha de Man Above give each dem and vote, dem woulda never end up wid de kind of people dem have in Parliament. Yesterday, de Speaker in de Parliament had to beg dem MPs to raise de level of de budget debate. Monday when de debate start, Neil Kumar decide to talk ‘bout Jagdeo wedding during de Budge debate. He seh marriage expensive, how man does go way and lef woman and he talk ‘bout divorce. He talk ‘bout child mudda and child fadda. Ganga seh how dem mekking dem roads too smooth. He seh he and he wife shoes does slide when dem walk on de new road.
Charrandas is de odda one. He bring he neighbor story to Parliament. He tell de speaker and de MPS dat ee neighbor go pon TV to complain how he get lay off and now he can’t afford to feed ee children dem. De man was crying wid snot pon TV. Charrandas seh he know de man don’t have no children, not even a cat or a dog he adopt in ee yard. Keith Scott try to read he budget speech and de Speaker tell him to sit down because he was picking corn. Up come Priya and she decide she gon show de whole world de ignorance, de doltishness and incompetence of de Guyanese politicians. She don’t see sheself pon de TV no more and in de newspaper. She decide to do like de Guyanese Critic and broadcast sheself. All dis went on in Parliament dat mek de Speaker hold
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he head and down it. He tell dem boys, he couldn’t believe what he was seeing and hearing coming from de mouth of representatives of de people. He tell dem boys, he suh shame dat Monday dat he talk privately and send dem home early, hoping dat dem gon come better and wid a change attitude de next day. Instead, de man seh dem come wuss than Monday. Dat is wha force him to come public. He seh if dis continue today, he gon shy all of dem out de place. Dem boys upset when dem hear dat. Dem seh de MPs are de leaders of dis country and dem should lead by example. Dem boys seh if dat is de example dem setting, then God be wid de nation. Talk half and wait fuh see wha happen today.
lem with the numbers, which are churned out each year in Budgets. It is high time that some independent verification of the numbers, particularly growth and inflation, take place, so as to end the skepticism. This is an area in which the government and the Opposition can cooperate. They should agree to a joint task force to scrutinize the numbers and take steps to invite a credible international agency to audit the inflation and growth rates. The Budget has to be credible. If the inflation rate is actually found to be higher than
declared, then it means that the wages offered to some categories of public sector workers will not compensate for inflation. It means that the purchasing power of some workers will be far less than before. If the growth rate is discovered to be overstated, this can harm Guyana’s international credibility. The country will suffer a loss of investment and financial flows. Guyana has an adversarial political system. And very few have argued that the results of the local government elections, in-
stead of continuing the combative politics, should lead to greater political cooperation. A first step in this direction would be to have a joint verification of the economic indicators. This will not just boost economic confidence, but at the same time help to reduce political tensions, something that will be food for investment and business.
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Raphael, Volda and the never-ending opinions on the PPP and PNC There is a dimension to the Volda Lawrence outburst that needs theorizing on. It revolves around Raphael Trotman’s pronouncement that Lawrence does not operate with racial narratives in her life, and he knows this because he worked with her for twenty-five years. Raphael Trotman cannot be so extensively naïve about the Macbethian brew of power that he does not know or does not accept it harms the soul of the possessor. If
Trotman shared the activism of Lawrence for the past twenty-five years, it meant for the greater part of his and her political career, they knew each other as functionaries of an essentially ethnic-based party named the People’s National Congress. By longevity in an ethnicbased party, Lawrence had to inculcate some serious forms of racial consciousness. The obvious question is what she was doing in such a party if she was
psychologically of the multiracial genre? Trotman can answer that question. He was part of the ethnic bulwark of the PNC, and he left and formed a multi-racial entity. Any schoolboy will find the following question logical to ask – why would educated, decent Guyanese leave multiracial parties or birth multiracial organizations for themselves and spend an inordinate amount of time in the PPP and PNC? Guyana will soon have an
Amerindian-based outfit. There is some forceful realism in the formation of that entity. It says it is basically interested in the welfare and future of the Amerindian people of this land. That party is going to attract humans from that race group. There will be no deluge of Afro-Guyanese and Guyanese East Indians into the Amerindian party. You can anticipate with deadly accuracy the answer if you ask them why not. They will tell you that they are not
Amerindians and would not prefer to function in an exclusively Amerindian party. The PPP and PNC have for too long perpetuated the myth of their cross-racial biology. It is not only a myth. It is a joke, but a sick one. I completed in 2011 a research paper titled, “Ethnic Power and Ideological Racism: Comparing presidencies in Guyana.” The evidence of race-based discrimination by the Jagdeo presidency and the PPP Government is graphic and shocking in that paper of mine. I have used that research to defend my newspaper column on the practice of race-based power output by President Jagdeo in the libel writ that Mr. Jagdeo as President brought against me. If during my investigation, the PPP Government was a multiracial regime, then honestly, Black Guyanese had to have lost their minds to have agreed that the PPP was an administration that was fair to them. My activism against the PPP regime led me to the definitive conclusion that Black Guyana saw the Jagdeo presidency as being hostile to the political economy of African Guyanese. From the time the APNU+AFC Coalition came into being, I have gotten the distinct impression from my continued social activism, that East Indians wherever they are in Guyana, believe the present administration is favouring African Guyanese. Speaking as someone who has spoken out against racially-based policies of a predominantly Indian regime; I would say that I am not prepared in the least to deny that explanation from Indians in Guyana. I have seen directions of the present government,
Frederick Kissoon which trouble me deeply about its proclaimed multiracial credentials. In fact, in one of my columns in April last year, I concluded that the employment of Emily Dodson as a member of the Procurement Commission was racially motivated. That was and is my opinion. I stated in that column that if an Indian lawyer had fought the presidential term limit case for Mr. Jagdeo, the PNC would not have touched him with a ten-foot pole. Dodson was one of the lawyers for Mr. Jagdeo, but she was accepted by the Appointments Committee of Parliament, which has a ruling party majority to sit on the Procurement Commission. It is my opinion, to which I am entitled, that Dodson’s appointment betrayed the instinct of racial consciousness in the PNC. I have written about such instincts in the PPP, and I will not be afraid to write about the presence of such in the current government. Of course, there will be opposing positions about the Dodson case, just as Trotman gave his interpretation on the nature of Volda Lawrence. When the PPP was in power, many of us offered our viewpoints on discrimination against African Guyanese. I simply cannot see why we should not offer our opinions on race-based judgments by the APNU+AFC regime. I stand by my interpretation of the Dodson scenario, and I respect the opinions of those who disagree.
Convicted child rapist to be sentenced Convicted child rapist, Esmond Slowe was yesterday found guilty of raping a 14year-old girl, by a 12-member mixed jury. The verdict was in the proportion 11-1. Slowe engaged in sexual penetration with the minor on December 16, 2016. The offence occurred in the County of Demerara. He is said to be in his late 30s. Slowe is to return to court next week Friday, December 14, for sentencing and the presentation of a probation report and victim impact statement. Slowe was represented by Attorney Maxwell McKay, while the case for the State was presented by Prosecutors Abigail Gibbs
CHILD RAPIST: Esmond Slowe and Seeta Bishundial. The trial was heard before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow at the High Court in Georgetown.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Speaker appeals to MPs to raise level of budget debate Speaker of the National A s s e m b l y, D r. B a r t o n Scotland yesterday a d m o n i s h e d Parliamentarians to raise the level of the ongoing debate on the 2019 budget. The S p e a k e r ’s comments followed the presentation by
Government M P, Charrandass Persaud, during the second day of the debates. “Honourable members, I make an appeal, which is to ask members if they can lift the level in their presentations. Let us try that,” Dr. Barton stated.
Persaud sought to address the reference made by Opposition MP, Irfaan Ali who started his budget presentation on Monday by citing a song that spoke to ‘lies’. Persaud said, “Mr. Irfaan Ali spoke of lies. We told lies?” The speaker
interjected. “All members in this Chamber, that word will not be acceptable. It was used yesterday [Monday]. In fact, Honourable Mr. Ali began his presentation with a certain reference; whether in song or in verse it will not be permitted henceforth. You will have to express yourself in parliamentary language,” Dr. Barton warned. Persaud continued during the debate to speak about a neighbour whom he saw on television crying about the effects the loss of employment in the sugar belt would affect his children. “And he doesn’t have a child. That’s the problem, and I had to take task with that. I had to. He does not have a child, not an adopted child either.” Earlier in the day, the Speaker warned members about heckling; pointing out that MPs will be provided their full time to make their presentations, even if they are interrupted. Some MPs continue to read their presentations.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland They have been stuttering through the pages and in some cases sounding incoherent. In some cases, the MPs have strayed from the programmes outlined in the 2019 budget, forcing the Speaker to intervene and request that the presenter remain on topic. On Monday, the Speaker warned Opposition MP Priya Manickchand, who had livestreamed Ali’s presentation. Last y e a r ’s consideration of the estimates had descended into chaos when PPP MP, Juan Edghill refused to obey the S p e a k e r ’s instructions to vacate the House. Edghill was suspended without pay
and the matter is still before the Parliamentary Committee of Privileges. Also last year, a woman in ‘Santa Claus’ attire, entered the Parliament Chamber and attempted to present Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo with an Oxford Dictionary as he wrapped up the debate on the Opposition side of the House. Indications are that the woman came in properly dressed and changed her clothes in the MPs bathroom. A few days later, a woman was escorted from the Parliament Chamber by security when she started singing, ‘God is watching us’.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
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Govt. accused of trivializing importance of JSC The Government is once again being accused of trivializing the Judicial Service Commission, an important constitutional agency. In response to comments made by Minister of State Joseph Harmon on Friday, Judicial officers have joined the call for Government to make reconstitution of the JSC a priority. The JSC is a constitutionally established body, which holds the authority to make appointments and to remove and exercise disciplinary control over persons holding or acting in judicial offices. Commenting on the absence of the JSC, a senior judicial officer noted that in its absence the independence of the judiciary is at stake. “The JSC by its legal definition is the guardian of
our autonomy. The JSC upholds the independence of the judiciary. It ensures by its diligence that judicial officers resist being influenced by improper partisan and personal interests.” As such, the government should make every effort to ensure that it is place. It should be treated as a priority. Recently, retired Judge Oslen Small is among those who highlighted the implications of not having the JSC board in place. “That is something that should receive active
consideration,” Justice Small told Kaieteur News during a recent interview. “I really don’t know what the holdup is, but the JSC should be given priority, given its role in the constitution.” Justice Small noted, however, that the JSC is made up of ex-officio members of the JSC and had included acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, the Chief Justice, Chairman of the Guyana Public Service Union, (GPSU) , a member appointed by Parliament and one by the President.
“These persons must be selected before the JSC is in place. I should hope that the Government is working on ensuring those persons are in place so that the new JSC board can be selected.” The life of the membership of the last JSC expired since September 30, 2017. As such, social and political commentators have
lamented that the absence of the board is creating a constitutional vacuum. O p p o s i t i o n parliamentarian and former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall has been among those calling for public condemnation of the government’s stance on the issue. Nandlall has criticized the government over the failure to appoint a new JSC
Board. The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) came to an end over a year ago but it is receiving the government’s attention, according to Minister Harmon. “As soon as that is ready for public disclosure, I will do so,” Harmon said. Minister Harmon gave the assurance that efforts are in train to have it reconstituted.
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
Govt. programme failures worsen multi-drug resistant TB – Dr. Anthony Government has failed to explain why there is an increase in the incidence of the multi-drug resistant (MDR) strain of tuberculosis (TB). This is according to Opposition Member of Parliament, Dr. Frank Anthony, who sought to lay blame at the feet of Government during day two of the 2019 Budget debate in the National Assembly yesterday. “Experts will tell you that multidrug resistance often develops because of programme failures, such as stock-outs of critical drugs, inadequate monitoring, poor compliance and patients’ poverty,” Dr. Anthony stated. He said Government members sought to placate the debate by stating that some functionaries from the Ministry have stated publicly, that there are no shortages of drugs. According to Dr. Anthony, what Government
has failed to state is when the drugs arrived from the Global TB facility. “Distorting the truth is good for propaganda, but critical shortages of drugs will kill people. You should stop playing with peoples’ lives,” Dr. Anthony noted. There was a recent shortage of Ethionamide, part of the cocktail of drugs used to treat those special TB patients. Director of Pharmacy, Oneil Atkins, on Friday said there is no need to panic following the shortage of one of four medications used to treat drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) patients. Emergency supplies of this key drug arrived in Guyana late last week and were distributed to patients, Dr. Jeetendra Mohanlall, Manager of the Global Drug Facility Programme, confirmed Friday. Explaining the recent shortage, Dr. Mohanlall said the National TB Programme is
pushing for quality second line medication for Guyana’s TB drug-resistant patients. Due to some global challenges the delivery was delayed. The programme had to resort to emergency supplies, which arrived beyond the expected time of delivery. The four-second line drugs used to treat these drug-resistant TB (DR-TB) patients are sourced from South Korea, Japan, India and Cyprus, through the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Dr. Mohanlall said. On HIV, Dr. Anthony took note that the incidence of the disease appears to be rising, with the 20 to 29 age cohort showing the highest incidence – 32 percent of all newly reported cases in 2017. “This unwelcome development should be quickly corrected, by targetted programmes,” Dr. Anthony shared. He further noted that the Continued on page 15
From left: Dr. Quacy Grant, Mr. Oneil Atkins and Dr. Eshwar Ghanshiam proving that they have TB medication in stock.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
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Over 82,000 passports issued to date in 2018 Minister of Citizenship Winston Felix says that for 2018, 59,079 passports were issued by Guyana’s Central Immigration Authority and 6,143 passports were issued in regions 6 and 10. In the diaspora, 17,310 persons residing in 30 different countries also received passports. This amounts to a total of 82,532 passports issued so far for the year. The Minister made these announcements in his budget speech at Parliament of Guyana, yesterday. Felix also said that the Department of Citizenship registered 298 foreigners, who received citizenship through marriage, descent or ordinary residence. The department further issued 979 work permits to nationals of other countries, including 225 Cubans, 175 Chinese, 165 Americans, 120 Indians, 70 Phillipinos, 75 Venezuelans, 59 Britons, 45 Dominicans, 30 Trinidadians and 15 Surinamese. For 2019, the Minister said, “This year will bear witness to the improvement
in production of the new epassport system.” The new passport will take 10 years to expire, as opposed to five years for the current passport. The regular Guyanese passport will be replaced by a passport carrying an electronic chip which holds the same information printed on the regular passport’s pages, including name, date of birth and other biographic information. The minister said that the new passport will utilise technologies that will make the biographic and biometric data on it more secure. Hence, the passports will be more difficult to duplicate or fraudulently produce. Felix said that the epassport has inspired great confidence in the security measures in other CARICOM countries that have already adopted it, including The Bahamas, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda, and St. Kitts and Nevis. He said that those countries’ passports have caused there to be a
Govt. programme failures worsen... From page 14 overall adult prevalence rate is 1.7. However, these rates are much higher among sex workers, at 6.1 percent, men who have sex with men, 4.9 percent; prisoners 1.72 percent and transgender persons 8.4 percent. Dr. Anthony said that for high-risk population groups, one of the most effective prevention methods is Prevention Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). In the countries where it was introduced, he said it has significantly reduced the incidence of HIV. “Guyana lags behind the rest of the world. I call on the government to immediately introduce PrEP in Guyana,” Dr. Anthony said.
reduced risk of tampering and identification fraud, and that they help authorities to ensure the passport is authentic. The minister stated that the passport system will be overhauled, including the addition of technological equipment that will help to monitor Guyana’s borders, so that criminal elements will not be able to enter the country undetected. The government will be installing 10 automated passport kiosks at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). Felix said the kiosks
will allow authorized travelers, including Guyanese nationals and potentially small groups of foreigners with e-passports, to quickly pass through the system. Travelers will also have the option of having their photos taken and providing certain personal information, which would allow their data to be biometrically matched with their e-passport. The traveler would then be given a receipt containing an immigratory code that they can show to immigration officers at the kiosk, which will offer entry into the
country. In 2019, there will be two streams of passports; the 32page issue and the 48-page issue for frequent fliers, including members of the judiciary, parliamentarians and public servants. The minister said that persons applying for passports will be allowed to have their passports expedited, with completion within 24 hours. This will incur a cost of $20,000. This will not accommodate persons who have lost or damaged their passport.
Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
Don’t stretch out to Exxon for perks, and deprive the masses
A
ddressing the gov ernment in his bud get speech, yesterday, Member of the Opposition, Cornel James, cautioned the government to be careful how they relate to ExxonMobil. In his speech, the Member of Parliament said, “We
are dealing with a company that is not honest.” He went on to say that the oil giant has lied to the American people on multiple occasions. In 2011, Exxon had suffered an oil spill during its operations in the state of Montana. The company re-
portedly lied about an oil pipeline beneath the state’s Yellowstone River that burst and spilled 42,000 gallons. For months, the energy company had publicized that the pipeline was deep enough to be safe from spills, up until the spill occurred. Additionally, reports indicate that the com-
pany had reported that the spill lasted less than an hour, though records from the state’s Department of Transportation showed that the spill lasted for two hours. The oil spill had left oil along 85 miles of the Yellowstone River, killing fish and wildlife, and taking months to clean up. Further, the oil company is facing its latest lawsuit concerning its dishonest publication of the seriousness of climate change. Exxon had, in the 1980s, carried out internal assessments of the carbon dioxide released into the environment by fossil fuels. In October last, the New York Times reported that ExxonMobil defrauded its shareholders by
- Opposition MP to Govt downplaying the expected risks of climate change to its business. The Attorney General of New York is suing the oil company for this deception, following a long investigation concluded by the New York AG. This January, the Mayor of New York City also sued ExxonMobil, along with other companies, hoping that they would pay reparations for the damages that they have done to the environment.MP, Cornel James told the assembly that many countries, such as Nigeria and Angola, have found themselves “ripped off by huge oil companies”.
“Those who intend to build a fortune, illicitly, off oil,” he said, will not succeed because the country has robust anti-money laundering legislation. Addressing the government, the MP said, “You should not stretch out your hands for perks, then deprive the masses of this country.” Minister of Citizenship Winston Felix, told James, in his remarks, that the People’s Progressive Party would be hypocritical to make such statements, because it is the PPP/C government that signed the first agreement with ExxonMobil in 1999.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
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$345M in drugs, medical supplies paid for, but undelivered in past three years Opposition front-bencher, Dr. Frank Anthony yesterday chastised Government on its management record of the health sector, pointing to several instances of procurement breaches in the supply of drugs and medical supplies. During his contribution to the 2019 budget debate, Dr. Anthony highlighted that $345M in drugs and medical supplies were paid for by the Government in the past three years that have not been supplied. Dr. Anthony indicated that between 2015 and 2017, the government expended vast sums of monies to buy drugs and medical supplies. He indicated that many of these contracts were made as an ‘emergency purchase’, so that the delivery was time bound to fix the shortages in the public health system. “It is therefore unbelievable to learn that more than
$345.4M was paid for drugs and medical supplies from 2015 to 2017 that were not delivered and were still outstanding,” Dr. Anthony stated. Pointing to findings from the Auditor General (AG)’s report, Dr. Anthony shared that in 2015, 144.6M was still to be delivered; 2016, $67.7M; and in 2017, $133M. “Can somebody explain what is going on in the Ministry of Public Health? We await the verdict of how much more drugs is outstanding for 2018. This situation is hurting the patients,” Dr. Anthony stated. For 2017 and 2018, the AG’s report identified the suppliers who are still to deliver as per contract as New GPC, USAID Global Health Chain, PAHO, Massy Gas Products, Caribbean Medical Suppliers and Royal Emporium. The AG had also pointed to outstanding deliveries be-
- Dr. Anthony rips Govt. on procurement in health sector tween 2011 and 2014, the period when Dr. Anthony and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) controlled Government. In 2011, it was $7.3M; 2013, 58.5M; and 2014, $8.9M. This was not highlighted by Dr. Anthony in his budget presentation. Dr. Anthony pointed out that another interesting phenomenon has developed, where many of the favoured importers of drugs and medical supplies are not properly registered with the Food and Drug Administration. “Many of the medications that they import have not been checked to ensure that they meet the right quality standards. However, yet, they are allowed to import because they are supplying the government. This is a breach of
the Food and Drug Act and must not be allowed to continue,” Dr. Anthony stated. PROCUREMENT WOES Dr. Anthony pointed out that one of the critical areas of government waste has been inefficient and corrupt procurement practices. He reminded that Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, declared last year that procurement at the Ministry of Public Health has been brought under control. “These beautiful words cannot cover the stench of corruption. I notice that Minister Cummings this year stayed clear of praising her senior colleague and stayed even further away from procurement issues. Moreover,
we are left to wonder why? The answer is in the Auditor General report for 2017; it seems that the Ministry of Public Health was guilty of breaching most sections of the Procurement Act,” Dr. Anthony stated. He noted that “indeed the bell has sounded, malpractice in procurement continues unabated”. He said the now infamous case of HDM Labs, which was awarded through single sourcing - has caused a loss of millions of dollars to the treasury. “If the government likes to be taken seriously, then they should take actions against these transgressions. It is not only about sounding the bell, it is about belling the fat cats,” Dr. Anthony declared. The former Government Minister also chided the Government on its decision to lease private property to store drugs, including the infamous
PPP MP, Dr. Frank Anthony Sussex Street property. He stated that there are also concerns about the ability of the Ministry of Public Health to execute millions in projects, inclusive of its new headquarters.
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
COI recommends compensation for family whose home was destroyed by M&CC workers The report prepared following the conclusion of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into City Hall’s operations, has recommended compensation for the Festival City family whose home was demolished by Mayor and City Council of Georgetown (M&CC) workers. During the public hearings, Abiola Saul testified that officers of the M&CC had offered her $12M to leave a piece of commercial land that her family had occupied for close to three decades. Saul appeared before the COI, where she told officials that she and her husband, had their Festival City house and shop demolished twice by the Council.
Saul said her husband inherited the land from his late father, and they were told by the M&CC that two other persons had documents for the land. She valued her loss to be in the millions as they were unable to retrieve anything after the property was demolished. Saul said she was in constant contact with the Mayor, who told her that it was okay to rebuild, but that building was short-lived. She said that they can only vend dog food at the location at the moment. Chairman of the COI, Justice Cecil Kennard, in his recommendations noted that “this sort of behaviour by officers of the City is nothing
short of disgusting”. “It seems to be a habit of the functionaries at the Council. I would recommend that this family be compensated,” the retired judge noted. Saul had told the Commission that on November 16, 2016, officers from the City Engineer’s Department came to her residence to offer her a deal. “They told my husband that they were giving us $12M to leave the property alone and that we should accept the money because we are poor people and we can’t get the land. But I told them that we are not accepting any money, because we had already applied to Lands and Surveys to acquire a lease for the prop-
erty.” Saul explained that the land was passed down to her husband. “My father-in-law had been given that land since the 1980s to cultivate, so it is part of my husband’s family. We had a house and shop there and I told them that we were not giving up the land, so they went away.” Saul said, however, that a few months later, she had yet another encounter with the city workers. This time, the
workers returned to the property and completely bulldozed her home and shop. “They went there while me and my husband were on the road. We got a call from our neighbours that City Council was tearing down our house. When we arrived, the entire place was gone. They had already bulldozed everything.” The woman said she had erected a flat concrete structure on the premises following consultations with then Mayor Patricia Chase-Green,
but the city workers were determined to destroy her investment. The woman estimated her loss to be in excess of $16M. Saul said that she again visited Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen. “The Mayor told me that she had no knowledge of the incident.” She noted however that the Mayor never denied that the property was occupied by Morton Saul and his family for the past thirty years.
Teen charged with wounding head teacher The teen that is at the centre of a hullabaloo in which he is accused of assaulting the head teacher of the No 5 Primary School has been charged with unlawful wounding. The teen who lives at No. 9 village, West Coast Berbice and attends the No. 8 Secondary School, is accused of wounding Gangadai Isaacs, the acting Head Teacher of No.5 Primary School, on Saturday December 1 at No. 9 village, West Coast Berbice. Following a confrontation between the parties involved at the Fort Wellington Police Station, the
teen was charged. He failed to appear in court and a summons has been issued for him to appear on December 12, which is the next court date. Isaacs was reportedly dealt several cuffs to the face by the teen in the presence of her 11-year-old daughter, fiveyear-old niece and three-yearold son, and hit several times about her body. The woman says she is still in tremendous pain about her body. She said that she is experiencing pains in her chest and lower body. She has a swollen lip and face. The woman had stated
that around 16:30 hrs on the day in question she, her two children and niece were on their way to her mother’s residence when they were confronted by the teen who barged into them. He then kissed her and as she tried to retaliate, he began raining blows on her. The teen is said to be a known troublemaker. The Ministry of Education has condemned the incident and assured that the matter is being investigated and the findings of the said investigation will be made available upon its conclusion.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Moves apace to clamp down on fake drugs on local market
Officials who recently attended the WHO meeting in Switzerland. Through its Food and Drug Department, the Ministry of Public Health is looking clamp down on fake drugs in the health care system. In this regard, the Director [ag] of the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department [GAFDD], Ms. Tandeka Barton, said that, “Guyana will be in a better position “to double our efforts to prevent, detect and respond to substandard and falsified-SF medical products in our health care delivery system, by scaling up wharf and facility inspections, medical products examination and sampling”. According to her, although the size of the fake medical drugs market is currently not known, Guyana is looking to bolster its efforts to reduce the prevalence of this daunting state of affairs through its recent attendance of a strategic meeting. To advance its fake drugs detection efforts, GA-FDD announced its participation in the 7th Meeting of Member State Mechanism on SF medical products, which was
Mr. Marlan Cole, Director of GA-FDD. hosted at the Headquarters of the World Health Organization [WHO] in Geneva, Switzerland. The forum, which spanned the period November 27 to 30, 2018, was attended by Director of the GA-FDD, Mr. Marlan Cole. Cole’s participation was made possible through key and critical support from the Public Health
Ministry. Discussion at this meeting targeted problems associated with Substandard and Falsified [SF] medical products or fake drugs entering the Global Supply Chain, particularly in middle and low-income countries. This problem is one that has been highlighted (Continued on page 24)
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
Moves apace to clamp down on fake drugs on local... (From page 23) in a Study of the Public Health and Socioeconomic Impact of SF medical products, published by WHO in 2017, and reports received by the WHO’s Global Surveillance Monitoring System [GSMS] for SF medical products, a surveillance system that was launched in July 2013. According to the Study, one in 10 or 10.5 percent of medical products sampled was fake, and when
the estimated market value of US$300 billion in middle and low-income countries is factored against the 10.5 percent, it equates to over US$30 billion in cost to these countries. In addition, the University of Edinburgh developed an Impact Model for WHO, which was used to estimate the impact of SF antibiotic for the treatment of childhood pneumonia in Sub-Saharan Africa. The model revealed that as many as 72,430 excess
deaths can be attributed to SF antibiotic with reduced antibiotic activity and 169,271 of excess deaths to fake antibiotics with no antibiotic activity. With regard to the WHO Global Surveillance Monitoring System, it provides National Regulatory Authorities [NRAs], with a portal to report SF medical products, and after four years, over 2000 SF medical products reports were received from 111 countries.
Reports were in all therapeutic categories, ranging from cancer medicines to contraceptives and from antibiotics to vaccines. Reports were also evenly split between generic and innovator products with anti-malarial and antibiotics being the most frequently reported. The meeting also focused on significant works by the Member State Mechanism to fight SF medical products in the following areas: distribution or the supply of SF or
“ fake” medical products via the internet and medical products in-transit; strengthening of regulatory systems to prevent, detect and respond to SF medical products in health systems; guidance for manufacturers, importers, and distributors’ registration; the authorization of medical products by Member States; and the advancement of a global communication campaign framework to combat the threats of SF medical products using [IDEAS] - insight, data, engagement, action and solution. Currently, Guyana’s first line of defence against fake medical products is enshrined in the Food and Drug Act Chapter 34:04 and its accompanying Regulations, particularly Regulation 78. This therefore means that registration and authorization of drugs are required based on the reliance [full assessment] for efficacy, quality, and safety by one or more of the following countries: the US, the UK, Canada or Australia. However, in the recent past, an additional pathway for registration was created when the Public Health Min-
istry and the GA-FDD signed a Memorandum of Understanding [MoU] with the Caribbean Regulatory System [CRS] for assistance with medical products registration. This was in an effort to ensure fake medical products do not enter the health care system and that of the region. Moreover, the GA-FDD has been faced with, and has also simultaneously, advanced litigations regarding the sale, release, registration, and distribution of medical products that are not registered or wish to be registered. “In this regard and in our effort to protect the Guyanese consumers from SF medical products, the department has received key and critical support from the Ministry of Public Health and the Attorney General Chambers with matters before the courts,” said Ms. Barton. But the GA-FDD could not realise this level of success on its own, as such she expressed appreciation for astute leadership from the Public Health Ministry as part of the efforts to combat the existing problem with public health and economic implications.
Over 8,000 children... (From page 21) emphasis towards pre-school education in recent years. This is according to GPE Chief Executive Officer, Ms Alice Albright, who has been able to capture the laudable developments in the Guyana education system in Apolitical – an online educational journal. “We know that brain development from birth to the age of five is critical, and that early learning, along with play, healthcare and good nutrition, contributes substantially to a child’s prospects in education and as an adult,” Albright noted. In fact, she noted that “The world agrees…for the first time, we have a global commitment on early learning in the UNagreed Sustainable Development Goal [SDG] for education, which specifically calls for children’s access to at least one year of quality pre-primary education.” However, while more children are getting access to early learning, those that need it most are still missing out, Albright said, as she noted that “Positive outcomes are most pronounced among children from vulnerable groups, yet 80 percent of children in low-income countries still have no access at all to early learning.” GPE, the world’s only partnership and fund solely focused on education in developing countries, has invested about US$200 million in more than 35 partner-developing countries to support early childhood care and education. But the overall funding is still very low, despite the evidence that early learning better prepares children for primary school, improves their learning and reduces repetition and drop-out rates, thus making education systems more efficient. Funding for early childhood education is also not keeping pace with enrolment growth. National spending in developing countries is not enough to provide quality early education services, Albright added, even as she pointed out that “With private providers accounting for more than half of all enrolled children in pre-primary education, the burden of paying often falls on families”. Added to this, she observed that conflict is a major and growing impediment to early learning. “Fewer than five percent of children in countries affected by conflict have access to pre-primary schooling.” It is therefore clear, Albright said, “We all need to do more — including through aid programmes. At the international level, only two percent of foreign aid to basic education goes to the pre-primary sector. Reaching the SDG target will require a significant increase in financial support”. “We also urgently need to improve the quality of data, not only on where early childhood education is available, but also on its quality and whether all children have access or just a few, said Albright, as she emphasised, “Only then will we be able to properly ensure that services are effective and reaching the poorest and most marginalised children who stand to benefit most”.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
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Health Ministry had no Procurement Dept. prior to 2015 – Minister Lawrence points out Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, speaking on the sidelines of the 2019 National Budget Debate yesterday, said claims of drug shortages, unavailability of beds at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and other allegations by Opposition Member of Parliament, Dr. Frank Anthony, are “far from the truth.” “This has become the mantra for the PPP… As we speak, our health facilities, our hospitals should have not less than 70 to 75 percent of the drugs and medical supplies. Yes, there are shortages of some of the items, but in any system, you will have that.” Minister Lawrence said Guyana, as a small country, is at a disadvantage, since the country has to wait until the manufacturers are producing a particular drug in bulk before supplies are made available. “No doubt we have been working on our procurement; it has been a very rocky road over the past year since we have
- says Ocean View storing drugs at no cost to Govt. established a Procurement Department. There was no Procurement Department in the Ministry of Public Health; it was this government in 2017 that implemented a Procurement Department that has ensured that our purchases are done in a transparent manner.” The disclosures of no Procurement Department would raise eyebrows, as questions would be asked how the Health Ministry under consecutive governments of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic was carrying out its procurement of pharmaceuticals. Over the years, leading up to early elections in 2015, there was evidence pointing to two particular companies, close to top PPP/C officials, which received the bulk of those billion-dollar contracts. According to Minister Lawrence, a consultant from the United Kingdom is currently in
the country and working along with the Ministry’s procurement and personnel staff to ensure the gaps in the system are rectified. Minister Lawrence said Government has a zero-tolerance rule for those persons who fail to adhere to the procurement laws, as it works to “get things right.” The Minister also clarified that a modernised drug bond is being constructed in Kingston. However, in the interim, the Ministry has been forced to utilise other storage options, which have been provided. The storage is being provided at no cost, by members of the private sector, including the management of the Ocean View International Hotel. This, Minister Lawrence said, may be viewed as part of the company’s corporate/social responsibility. The Auditor General Report of 2017 had flagged findings that drugs were stored at that East
Coast Demerara hotel. In relation to the matter involving unavailability of beds at the GPHC, the Minister said this was an issue that started when Opposition Chief Whip, G a i l Te i x e i r a , w a s t h e t h e n Minister of Health and requested that the number of beds in those wards that span from East Street to Lamaha Street, Georgetown be reduced from over 700 to a little over 400. In addition, as the country’s tertiary health institution, Minister Lawrence said many persons are flocking to receive the modernised treatment available there, hence, the challenges associated with space. Further, the Public Health Minister said a building to house her Ministry will be constructed in three phases, with phase one already in progress. The Minister noted this will allow for better management of the Ministry, since the various
Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence departments are scattered across the capital city, following a fire which destroyed the then Ministry under the previous PPP administration. “For 23 years, they never sought to rebuild that building, but we are going to do so,” she assured.
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
Kaieteur News
Man accused of killing uncle freed on no-case submission
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisement, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Eagle’s re-gas AC, Fridge, Washing machine & computer repairs, Gas stove, Plasma flat screen, Electrical installation & more. Call: 6972969/646-0966 TO LET
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2 sets Golf clubs! Ford Econoline van with shelves. LED panel lights. Fishing poles #690-5197
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MURDERED: Carlos Solomon
FREED: Nicholas Hercules
A no-case submission upheld by Justice Sandil Kissoon resulted in 21-yearold Nicholas Hercules being freed of a charge, which alleged he killed his uncle. Hercules, of Princes Street, Georgetown, had initially pleaded not guilty to the charge, which alleged that on April 01, 2015, he murdered Carlos Solomon. Yesterday, the trial judge upheld a no-case submission by Attorneys Compton Bobb and Hewley Griffith, who were retained by Hercules. According to information, Hercules and Solomon knew each other, since they resided at Lot 44 Princes Street,
Georgetown. On the day in question, Solomon and Hercules were reportedly involved in an argument. Later, an injured Solomon was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Hospital. He was reportedly stabbed. It was reported that Hercules was held at the Alberttown Police Station when he went to report the matter. Prosecutors Lisa Cave and Orinthia Schmidt presented the State’s case. During the trial at the High Court in Georgetown several witnesses including police ranks were called to testify.
Improved ease of access to govt. services promised …25 forms to be made available online in 2019 As the 2019 Budget debates continue, Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes announced that twenty-five government forms will be made available online next year. This is one of many initiatives, the Minister said, being rolled out by the
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Ministry of Public Telecommunications along with several government agencies across the country. This move is designed to save citizens time and create ease of access to services that in the past would require extended waiting and processing times. It also cuts out the need for travel and the need for lengthy paperwork. “These electronic public service forms or E-forms will cover services such as business registration, police clearance, sickness and benefit claims, house lot applications, job seeker registrations, job vacancy registration, Nursery and Primary School applications, and of course, the passport application process which is already in place and the registration of births, marriages and deaths.” These forms will be made available to all citizens not only resident in Guyana, but those in the diaspora. The Minister said that agencies such as the Guyana Revenue Authority, National Insurance Scheme and Guyana School of Agriculture are already encouraging interested applicants to use this means of information and data logging and processing.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Provision of Security Services in Region 7 attracts massive bids The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) yesterday received a total of 5 bids for the Procurement of Security Services, for a project put forward by the Regional Democratic Council of Region 7. Bidders who vied for the contract were as follows: Regional Democratic Council, Region 7 – Procurement of Security Services
Ministry of Agriculture GMC: Lot 1 – Provision of Security Services to the Guyana Marketing Corporation Lot 2 – Provision of Security Services to Parika Agro-Packaging Facility Lot 3- Provision of Security Services to Central Packaging Facility
In keeping with the area of security, the board also opened three bids for the supply and delivery of weapons and ammunition. Ministry of Natural Resources - Supply and Delivery of Weapons and Ammunition
Guyana Defence Force - Procurement of building materials
Other tenders opened by the board were as follows: Ministry of Public Infrastructure – Supply of line hardware materials for Lethem Power Company Inc.
Guyana Defence Force- Procurement of 2 Aluminium Trailers
Guyana Defence Force – Procurement of 2 new 15 kva Generators Ministry of Public Security – Selection of Consultants/Firm for the design and supervision of services for the construction of New Mahdia Living Quarters
Ministry of Public Health – Supply and Delivery of indent supplies Ministry of Public Security – Selection of Consultants/Firm for the design and supervision of services for the construction of Stables, Lethem Police Station
Ministry of Public Health – Supply and Delivery of Dental supplies
Ministry of Public Security – Selection of Consultants/Firm for the design and supervision of services for rehabilitation of Police Stations in Region 1.
Ministry of Public Security – Selection of Consultants/Firm for the design and supervision of services for Construction of Police Stations in Region 4. Ministry of Public Infrastructure: Lot 4 - Preparation works for Port Kaituma Hospital Road, Region 1 Lot 5 - Preparation works for Port Kaituma Hospital Road, Region 1
Guyana Livestock Development Authority – Construction of Entrance Bridge at Abattoir Compound
Ministry of Public Infrastructure – Supply and Delivery of Sand for the Port Kaituma Hospital Road, Region1
Ministry of Public Infrastructure – Supply and Delivery of BRC Fabric for the Port Kaituma Hospital Road, Region1
>>>> Continued on page 29 <<<<
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
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Govt. moves to implement policy to eradicate child labour Children in Guyana and the global Diaspora are experiencing some of the worst forms of child labour based upon the need for survival for not only themselves but also their families. The Government of Guyana in its pursuit to eradicate child labour by 2025 has implemented a policy that will note the enacting of several laws. Adults who prey on the vulnerabilities of these children are the ones who catalyze this regional issue. The policy was developed with the thought of youth and youth empowerment in mind. The Prevention of Child Labour Policy, created in tandem by the Ministry of Social Protection and the United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) holds the elimination of child labour within Guyana by 2025 as one
of its fundamental goals. The United Nations in its assessment of Guyana’s worst forms of child labour stipulates that the minimum age of admission into any employment should not be less than the age of completion of compulsory schooling. In accordance with this, the ministry’s policy to eradicate child labour has made provisions to ensure that children and adolescents do not fall prey to forms of child labour. Compounded with this, UNICEF and the Ministry in commencing the policy, have renewed and revamped eighteen of the laws that will affect child labour, with the Protection of Children and Employment of young persons and children, just being two. According to Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott, the mandate of the
policy is to provide the Nation with a constant supply of skilled youths in many disciplines, which will allow them to take their rightful places in our economic ventures. In addition, the policy seeks to address the most vulnerable areas that are disproportionately affected by child labour in terms of not just victims but perpetrators. The Minister elucidated that child labour often stems from poverty, lack of compulsory education and worker rights repression. Therefore, it is plausible that in order to combat this ill, a multifaceted approach would be needed to effectively address the causes of the issue. With all this being said, child labour may result in a myriad of social deficits. Children are exposed to accidents and injuries at the workplace; sexual abuse and
exploitation of girls is also prevalent among child workers, this can often result in a plethora of economic and social issues for a country. The sexual exploitation of young girls due to child labour often causes unwanted pregnancies, risky abortions, STDs, alcoholism and social exclusion. Further, the lack of schooling for many of these young children that are subjected to unjust labour perpetuates poverty in many
economies. The Ministry’s policy, in hopes of eradicating child labour by 2025, is anticipating a reduction in the many issues that are often brought on with the ill. The Minister conveyed that the policy implemented is one that will assess and combat the issue of child labour within the region. The policy is expected to target the employment of children younger than the age of compulsory school completion. Families will also
be targeted in the ministry’s policy to eliminate child labour by 2025. Child labour is a pervasive issue, especially in developing countries like Guyana. However, while children work for a variety of reasons, the main one being poverty and the induced pressure to escape it, many of them are not paid well. They are being subjected to a life of exploitation that not only stymies the growth of an economy, but that of the child.
Provision of Security Services in... >>>> From page 27 <<<<
Ministry of Public Infrastructure – Supply and Delivery of Aggregate base for the Port Kaituma Hospital Road, Region1
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Porkknocker charged with attempted murder A 39-year-old porkknocker was yesterday arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on an attempted murder charge. Bronson Wiltshire, of 184 Charlotte Street, Bourda, was not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that on November 25, last, at Crush Hill, Oko Backdam, Essequibo, with intent to commit murder, he wounded Curt Walcott. Police prosecutor Gordon Mansfield objected to bail for the defendant, based on the fact that the victim is still hospitalized. According to the prosecutor, Walcott was rushed to the Bartica Hospital and was subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital, after sustaining stab wounds to the head and abdomen. The facts of the charge indicated that on the day in question, Walcott was at a night spot when he was approached by Wiltshire, who began to make demands for money that was allegedly owed to him for ‘weed’ he had sold to Walcott. Walcott allegedly refused the request that was made, and it was then that Wiltshire, armed with a knife, reportedly inflicted the stab wounds on him. Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan upheld the submission made by the prosecutor, and instructed that Wiltshire is to remain on remand until December 20, when he will make his next court appearance in Bartica.
Orphaned teen robber sentenced to community service Yesterday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, a 17year-old boy made an appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and admitted to a charge of robbery with use of violence. The charge alleged that on the 1 December, 2018 at Industrial Site Ruimveldt, the teen robbed Sohan Bridgelall of two BLU cell phones - a total value of $30,000, wherein violence was used to commit the act. The remorseful youth informed the court that he resides at ‘B’ Field, South Sophia, with friends. He stated that he is a school dropout and does not know the whereabouts of his parents. He also mentioned that from a tender age he has been associated with “bad company”. Police facts stated that on the day in question Bridgelall was on his way home when he was approached by the teenager and another male. The accomplice held Bridgelall by the neck while the teen removed the cell phones from his pocket. An off duty police was able to apprehend the defendant and recover the stolen articles. The teen was placed in custody and later charged. After listening to the prosecution, Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan then sentenced the teenager to four weeks’ community service at the Mayor and City Council or in default he is to spend three months in prison.
Bermuda Cracks Down On Loan Sharks HAMILTON, Bermuda CMC – The Bermuda government is to crack down on loan sharks. The House of Assembly heard that loan sharks have worsened the problems of people in financial difficulty. Junior Finance Minister Wayne Furbert said he knew of cases where US$10,000 loans became $66,000 debts in just a year, and that action was needed. “This has been going on from year to year to year. Our people have been ripped off. Sometimes you just happen to run into problems. Lose your job and cannot pay. You are struggling. What can you do?” “We are in an unforgiving society in many aspects and it’s time to recognise that if it wasn’t for the grace of God, some of us would still be in that same position,” Furbert said.
Wayne Furbert He was speaking as the House debated and passed the Debt Collection Act 2018, designed to create a framework to regulate debt collection. Home Affairs Walter Roban said the new law would help protect consumers from predatory debt collection practises.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Meet the Record Breakers... From page 41 Carlos Petterson-Griffith (Home Gym), Open Equipped 93kg Class, Squat (320.0kg) and Total (810.0kg).
Noel Cummings (Buddys Gym), Master 4 and 3 Classic 66kg Class, Squat (130.5kg) and Masters 4, 3, 2 and 1 Classic 66kg Class Deadlift (170.0kg).
Wednesday December 05, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) This is an important day for you to give thanks for all that you have, Aries. Give your loved ones extra hugs and let them know how much they mean to you.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) No matter what you're doing today, have fun, Libra. Whistle a tune. Turn the stereo up to full volume and dance around the kitchen as you make dinner.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Maintain a positive attitude, and things will naturally flow your way. Tell a few jokes and keep things light and energetic. You will find that you can multitask very well and you have the ability to make everyone smile.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You might need to spend time alone in order to reset your programming. Other people's influence may be seeping into your psyche.
GEMINI(May 21–June 20) You may be reluctant to commit to anything major today, Gemini. Your natural tendency is to look askance at those who promise grand and wonderful things. CANCER (June 21–July 22) This may be one of those days when you feel completely alone even if there are hundreds of people around. No one seems to understand your perspective. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Balance your boisterous, adventurous nature with a bit of discipline today, Leo. It's important to laugh, but it's also important to stay on task with your duties. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) There may be a thousand things for you to do today, but you can only get them done if you concentrate on one at a time. Take a lighthearted approach.
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SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You will find that discipline, organization, and a bit of a dramatic flair are exactly the things needed to be successful today. Just because you have to be practical doesn't mean that you have to be stern and grumpy. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You might find it difficult to deal with people on an emotional level today, Capricorn. Others could seem too demanding of your attention, and want to keep the focus on themselves. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You might find your emotions a bit dampened today, but this may not be a bad thing. Try not to blow things out of proportion so much. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Make sure you get your daily dose of laughter and try to come out of your shell a bit more, Pisces. This is an important time for you to let go of your inhibitions and open up to the world.
George boosts Footballers thank Bedessee Trophy Stall... Imports for generosity
From page 36 Amanda Bobsemple 23; W. Davidson captured 3-27. Swan Strikers replied with 1286 in 14.4 overs. Avina Adrian made 43 as D. Jagdeo and Sherry Ann Fraser picked up two wickets each. 4 R Lioness overcame Wellwoman by 12 runs. 4 R Lioness mustered 58-1 off their reduced quota of seven overs, taking first turn in the middle. Akaze Thompson made 20 not out. Wellwoman were limited to 46-5 in reply. Kaysia Schultz had 2-9. At Jai Hind ground in Albion, Regal Masters defeated Albion Masters by 49 runs. Regal Masters rattled up 188-6 in 20 overs, taking first knock. Mahase Chunilall stroked 51, Eric Thomas 45 and Samuel Kingston 25. Albion Masters were bowled out for 139 in 16.4 overs in reply. Krista Sammy made 29 as Tyrone Sanasie bagged 423, David Harper 2-0 and Saheed Mohamed 2-16.
Bravo and Brathwaite... From page 36 Ambris and Oshane Thomas. BANGLADESH TOUR SCHEDULE · 1st Test – November 22 – Chattogram · 2nd Test – November 30 – Mirpur · 1st ODI – December 9 – Mirpur · 2nd ODI – December 11 – Mirpur · 3rd ODI – December 14 – Sylhet · 1st T20I – December 17 – Sylhet · 2nd T20I – December 20 – Mirpur · 3rd T20I – December 22 – Mirpur
RHTY&SC, MS and... From page 35 Assad and Abdel Fudadin, Kevlon Anderson, Shemaine Campbelle, Erva Giddings and Sheneeta Grimmond among others.The Young Warriors Cricket Club has been very successful at all levels in Berbice Cricket. The Club has produced players like Test Player Shimron Hetmyer, Gajanand Singh, Richard Ramdeen, Alex Algoo, Linden Austin, Seon Hetmyer, Sanjay Khan and Kwesi Maltay among others.
Young footballers of the East Ruimveldt community have expressed sincere gratitude to Mr. Verman Bedessee, Chief Executive Officer of Bedessee Imports of New York and Chairman of the Guyana Hemp Industries for his support and generous contribution towards the development of football in the community. Mr. Bedessee donated a quantity of bibs and footballs to the East Ruimveldt Football Club and the Wave Heart Football Club. Speaking after a presentation match at East Ruimveldt Secondary School ground on Saturday 2nd December where Wave Heart under 15 A Team defeated their B Team by two goals to NIL which were scored by Emperor Cosbert and Paul Williams. The Young Cosbert expressed that the support will open up new opportunities for our young people as well as help develop our football skills. “The contribution of Mr. Bedessee will enable us to
participate in more tournaments, and these events will broaden our discipline on and off the field. Without the support of people like you we will not be able to reach our goals,” he added. Meanwhile, at East Ruimveldt Community Center ground at another presentation game, Eastveldt FC under 17 team defeated their under 15 team by one goal to NIL which was scored by Akeem Young. The young footballers expressed thanks and not only are the youths enjoying the sports of football but also learning many valuable life lessons.The presentations is part of the Guyana Hemp Industries/ Cavaliers Sports and Tour Club month of sporting activities to raise the awareness of the importance for the establishment of an Industrial Hemp Industry in Guyana. Meanwhile on Saturday December 8th, in observance of Industrial Hemp Liberation Day a number of sports events will be held at several venues.
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IAAF honours Owens and 11 others with heritage plaques MONACO (Reuters) Global athletics will begin honouring its heritage with plaques at historically significant locations around the world, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) announced yesterday. American sprinter and jumper Jesse Owens, distance runners Paavo Nurmi of Finland and Emil Zatopek of Czechoslovakia and Dutch sprint-hurdles star Fanny Blankers-Koen are among a dozen athletes selected for the first plaques for achievements at lesser-known stadiums. “The IAAF World Athletics Heritage Plaque is a location-based recognition which highlights, celebrates and links together iconic and historic athletics competitions, careers, performances, cities, venues, landmarks and culture around the world,” IAAF
President Sebastian Coe said at a special ceremony yesterday. Representatives and family members of seven of the athletes presented Coe with historic artefacts from their relatives’ careers for inclusion in the IAAF Heritage Collection. The plaques will be displayed at a location closely associated with each recipient. “Many of the stadiums and tracks which we recognise today have already vanished and these plaques will be a permanent reminder of the incredible athletics deeds which took place at those locations,” Coe said. “There would be no point in us placing plaques on the wall of every Olympic stadium as... these are already well-known landmarks. Instead we are looking to highlight lesser-
known locations associated with equally outstanding performances.” One of those is Ferry Field in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where Owens set four world records in the sprints, long jump and hurdles in 45 minutes on one afternoon in 1935. The field is in transition mode with modern athletics facilities opened elsewhere at the University of Michigan. Others receiving initial plaques and their locations are: British distance runner Emil Voigt - Manchester Harriers & Athletics Club, England. Swedish javelin thrower Eric Lemming - Stockholm Olympic stadium. Finnish distance runner Paavo Nurmi - Paavo Nurmi Games & Stadium, Turku, Finland. American hurdler and field events specialist Mildred Didrikson - Babe
Didrikson Zaharias Museum, Beaumont, Texas. Japanese long and triple jumper Chuhei Nambu Meiji Jingu Gaien Nikoniko Park, Tokyo. Dutch sprinter-hurdler Fanny Blankers-Koen Fanny Blankers-Koen Games & Stadium, Hengelo, Netherlands. Czech distance runner Emil Zatopek - Golden Spike & Mestsky Stadium, Ostrava, Czech Republic. Brazilian triple jumper Adhemar Da Silva - Tiete Sports and Leisure Centre, Sao Paulo. Australian sprinter Betty Cuthbert - Sydney Cricket & Sports Ground Trust, Sydney. Ethiopian marathoner Abebe Bikila - Abebe Bikila Stadium, Addis Ababa. Polish sprinter Irena Szewinska - Zawiszy Imienia Stadium, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
Jesse Owens
Just call Me Bass beats them again at Port Mourant in Race of Champions Connections of the Jagdeo Stable receiving the winning trophy in the C class race for Just Call Me Bass victory.
Mr and Mrs Junior ‘Jumbo Jet’ Mohamed receiving one of their many trophies. The inaugural Race of Champions Horse Racing meet organised by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee was held last Sunday at the Port Mourant Turf Club, Corentyne Berbice. The event saw Just call Me Bass’ of The Jagdeo Stable showing who is boss with a blistering run down the homestretch to take the feature C and lower event as it enacted revenge on Vera’s Finally. With the veteran jockey Paul Delph on the
hunch the animal bid it’s time to squeeze past front runner Princess She’s Not to win the $1M and trophy in the 1300M event. Princess She’s Not roared in second ahead of Lucky Star. It was the second defeat for Vera’s Finally both times by Just Call Me Bass and both times at the Port Mourant Turf Club and on both occasions Princess She Not finished second after dominating most of the race. The F class 1500M event was won by Release the Beast
of the Jumbo Jet Racing Stables with Colin Ross piloting the animal home ahead of Keep on Swinging, Good Will Boy and Crown the King. The win was worth $400,000 and trophy. Colin Ross was again in the winner’s enclosure this time abode Keep on Swinging in the H1 and Lower as the animal romped home ahead of Not This Time and Silver and Things for the $300,000 top prize and trophy. Is She Perfect of the
Mahaicony racing Stable ridden by Appdhu rode a perfect race in its first outing to win the race for 2-year-old Guyana bred animals ahead of Valentina, Awesome Banner and Ebony Prince. The ‘I’ and Lower race was won by Chamalie with Kevin Paul abode ahead of Not this Time, Ready to Romance and Kentucky. Party Time had a good time in winning the J1 race with Red Region, Mary Ann and Jungle Prince being left
in the dark. Massapequa Dr was too good for its opponents in the K-Class race as it defeated Byron, Touch Down and Gold Again. Catch a Glimpse with jockey Colin Ross in the stirrups took first place in the L-Class event for Colts and Geldings as it out maneuvered Art of Gold, Uprising and Touch Gold. It was all Colin Ross on the perch as in the event for L3 year and lower fillies and
mares with Feeona as it outclassed Touch of Class and Secret Flyer. Catch a Glimpse with the inform Jockey Colin Ross on the mount caught more than a glimpse as it won the LClass event ahead of Feeona, Ready to be Talk About and Red Weasel. The Jumbo Jet Stable was the top entity on show. Ross with five wins was the Champion Jockey. The champion Trainer was Junior Mohammed.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
Gayle admits to tiring workload amid league commitments ESPNcricinfo -Chris Gayle said it was “good to be back” in South Africa, having jetted back to the country and into Jozi Stars’ Mzansi Super League squad after missing the last five matches while he was away playing for Kerala Knights in the T10 League. Gayle was in Sharjah in October for the Afghanistan Premier League, and had played in Jozi Stars’ Mzansi Super League opener before leaving for the UAE. Yesterday he flew back from the T10 league, to a T20 tournament in another country, South Africa. Gayle admitted that the constant travel does takes its toll and added, hinting at the resolution of his defamation case, that he was hoping for things to get easier for him personally.“In the future, I’m looking forward to things being a bit more simpler for me, from a personal point of view,” Gayle said. “It’s not so easy, to be honest with you. Especially at this age as well. You jump on a flight, and then you jump on a cricket field. But in a way you manage yourself, and I have a great team that keeps the body ready to perform up to standard and I’ve been doing this for years. “You make the necessary adjustment as quickly as possible, and take it from there. It’s not a big issue. It’s not a
Chris Gayle goes after the ball MSL big concern for me at this point in time to be honest.” Stars had lost the opener, but have since won three out of five games thanks to Reeza Hendricks’ back-to-back centuries, and are currently in third place on the points table. “I think the Jozi Stars are starting to peak at the right time. It’s good to have a win under our belt last night. I’m looking forward to tomorrow, up against the top guns. Hopefully we can continue the winning ways.” “I’d love Hendricks to make it three in a row,” added Gayle. “That would be nice to see. Two centuries back to back is always good, and coming in in such good form as
well. He knows the conditions well. I’m looking forward to opening the batting with him.”With his form, maybe he can actually take a bit of pressure off me. You guys keep mentioning my name, but it’s Hendricks you should be wary of. I’ll try and get a good start with him. Just enjoy the moment with him as well.” Stars coach Enoch Nkwe welcomed Gayle back to the squad. “He’s our international marquee player and a very important member of the squad,” said Nkwe. “We’re very happy to have him back. I know the dressing room is very excited. We’re looking forward to having him on the field.”
RHTY&SC, MS and Young Warriors CC inducted as BCB Members after 25-0 vote The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS and the Young Warriors Cricket Club on Sunday last were accepted as full members of the Berbice Cricket Board after a 25-0 vote at a Special Meeting. The Meeting which was held at the Board’s Cheddi Jagan Street, New Amsterdam office, was specially requested by five clubs “Rose Hall Canje, Mental Hospital, Guymine, Kildonan and Mt. Sinai. The Berbice Cricket Board Constitution states that once five clubs request a Special Meeting the Board shall hold one within 21 days of the request. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS written request for membership was nominated by the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club and Rose Hall Canje Cricket Club, while Young Warriors Cricket Club bid for membership was nominated by Rose Hall Canje and Guymine. Upon receipt of the
request, the Berbice Cricket Board appointed a five man committee to undertake an investigation into the Clubs’ suitability to become members. The Committee after visiting the Clubs, then recommended membership. At the Special Meeting, the Clubs supporting the Motion were Police Cricket Club, Upper Corentyne Cricket Association, Berbice River Cricket Association, Kildonan, Port Mourant, Albion Community Centre, Chesney, Rose Hall Canje, Mental Hospital, Mt Sinai and Guymine. The four delegates from West Berbice abstained, while Whim National and Blairmont Community Centre were absent along with one delegate from Albion. The Berbice Cricket Board now consists of thirteen Cricket Clubs and three subassociations. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS was founded in 1990 by three times Guyana and Commonwealth
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Youth Service Awardee, the St. Francis Community Developers and over the last two decades has been regarded as Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club has won over 65 major cricket tournaments since 1992, won the Guyana Cricket Board Club of the Year five times and is the only Club in Guyana to have a full strength Female Team. The Club has also produced sixteen National Players, over fifty Junior National Players and over one hundred for Berbice at all levels. Additionally, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS has used millions of its own funds to assist other cricket clubs and the Berbice Cricket Board. Among the players produced by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS are Shawn Grant, Neil Williams, Esuan and Royston Crandon, (Continued on page 33)
NBA roundup: Nuggets snap Raptors’ win streak Nikola Jokic had a tripledouble with 23 points, 15 assists and 11 rebounds and made three free throws in the final seconds as the visiting Denver Nuggets ended the Toronto Raptors’ eight-game winning streak with a 106-103 win Monday night. Jokic made a free throw with seven seconds remaining to end a tie and made two more with 5.6 seconds left for the final margin, extending Denver’s winning streak to six games. Jamal Murray added 21 points for the Nuggets, and Juan Hernangomez and Malik Beasley had 15 each. Kawhi Leonard led Toronto with 27 points and had eight rebounds. Serge Ibaka added 15 points. Warriors 128, Hawks 111 Golden State’s Big Three combined for 85 points, and the Warriors broke their twogame losing streak with a win at Atlanta. Stephen Curry scored 30, followed by Kevin Duran (28) and Klay Thompson (27) as Golden State improved to 5-7 on the road. Curry, playing in his second game since missing 11 games with an ankle injury, made six 3-pointers. Atlanta lost its third straight game despite getting 24 points and 11 rebounds from John Collins and 20 points from rookie Trae Young. Cavaliers 99, Nets 97 Alec Burks threw down a tiebreaking slam dunk with 3.2 seconds remaining, and Cleveland escaped with a victory over Brooklyn. The Nets saw their home losing streak reach seven games. Burks finished with 13 points in his third game for Cleveland after being ac-
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) drives past Toronto Raptors forward Serge Ibaka (9) in the second quarter at Scotiabank Arena. (Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports) quired from Utah on Thursday. He helped end the Cavaliers’ losing streak at four games. The Nets had one more chance to tie or win, but Spencer Dinwiddie’s 3-point try was well short of the rim with 1.5 seconds remaining. Jordan Clarkson led the Cavaliers with 20 points and a career-high 11 rebounds. Brooklyn’s D’Angelo Russell led all scorers with 30 points but shot 13 of 31 as the Nets’ overall losing streak reached seven games. Wizards 110, Knicks 107 Bradley Beal scored 27 points, Kelly Oubre Jr. added 21, and Washington held on to win at New York. John Wall had 18 points and 15 assists, Markieff Mor-
ris scored 18, and Otto Porter Jr. contributed 15 as Washington won its ninth straight game at Madison Square Garden. Emmanuel Mudiay’s two free throws got the Knicks within five with 1:02 remaining, and after Morris missed a 3-point attempt, Noah Vonleh’s layup cut the Wizards’ lead to three. However, Wall’s 3-pointer with 12 seconds left made it 110-104. Tim Hardaway Jr. led five New York players in double figures with 20 points. In other scores: Thunder 110, Pistons 83 Clippers 129, Pelicans 126 Timberwolves 103, Rockets 91 (Field Level Media)
Turbo knockout tournament
Finalist to be decided tonight Following it’s postponement last week due to unfavourable weather for football, the semifinals of the Turbo Knockout football competition will kick off tonight at the Ministry of Education (MoE) ground on Carifesta Avenue. The night will start off with Mahaica Determinators taking on GFC with a spot in the final on offer. The Georgetown based side will have to ensure two things are done if they are to secure victory. They must accumulate an early lead over their East Coast counterparts if they are to set the plan in motion and
they must be able to defend well late on in the game. Mahaica have shown their dominance in their tournament well after the 75th minute with a number of their goals coming there. Notoriously shaky on the start, the Determinators need to get ahead as early as possible. Meanwhile, game two is an all Georgetown affair as Northern Rangers play Santos. The Rangers have been increasing their team play gradually and this semi will definitely be a test of that. Their ability to play patient football could be a ma-
jor asset here when they come up against Santos. Meanwhile, the pace of Santos is not something that should not be underestimated. Their ability to play on the break and make opponents pay for the slightest mistake could mean a quick game changer. However it goes, after tonight, the finalists will be decided; weather permitting. The tournament will see a total of $1.5 million in cash prizes up for grabs with the winners walking away with $800,000, the runners up will pocket $400,000, third $200,000 and fourth $100,000.
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Hetmyer up 28 spots despite LABA tournaments in doubt due to smashed fibreglass backboard Windies horror series LONDON, CMC – Lefthander Shimron Hetmyer has vaulted 28 places in the latest International Cricket Council Test batting rankings, following his fireworks in the just concluded two-Test series against Bangladesh. The 21-year-old, the only West Indies batsman to emerge from the humiliating 2-0 series whitewash with his reputation intact, is now 52nd in the charts topped by India captain Virat Kohli. Hetmyer struck 39 and 93 in the second Test debacle in Dhaka, as West Indies slid to a heavy innings and 184-run defeat inside three days on Sunday – their largest margin of defeat to the hosts ever. Overall, Hetmyer scored 222 and at an average of 55 to top the Windies aggregates. He was also a stand-out in the first Test in Chitagong despite the Windies’ 64-run loss, hitting 63 and 27. A feature of the Guyanese’s batting was his attacking stroke-play. His second innings 93 came from 92 balls and included nine sixes – the joint most in a Test innings by a West Indies player. There was no such enterprise from stand-in captain
at MSC hard court
West Indies young batting star Shimron Hetmyer. Kraigg Brathwaite whose continued poor form has seen him tumble out of the top 20 to 33rd. Brathwaite scored 22 runs from four innings in the series, including 0 and 1 in Dhaka. However, he remains the Caribbean side’s highest ranked batsman. Shai Hope, who scored 39 runs in the series and Roston Chase, who got 34, are now 53rd and 46th in the batting rankings respectively. Wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich, who made a halfcentury in the opening Test, was the only other West Indies batsman to pass 100 runs in the series with 108
runs at an average of 36. The effort was good enough to stop him from losing ground in the rankings as he fell to 60th. In the bowling rankings, regular West Indies skipper, Jason Holder, who missed the series through injury, dropped one place to 10th while new-ball partner Shannon Gabriel, who missed the second Test through suspension, also lost one spot to be 12th. They are the only two West Indies bowlers in the top 20. South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada remains top of the bowling charts.
George boosts Trophy Stall Angels; 4R Lioness, Swan Strikers, Regal Masters triumph
Mahase Chunilall
Tyrone Sanasie
Annandale Secondary claim DDL Tapeball title Annandale Secondary won the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) inter secondary school Tapeball competition which was played on Saturday last at Durban Park. Four teams took part in the competition which was of six overs duration; Annandale Secondary, North Georgetown Secondary, IAE and Combined Schools. Annandale Secondary chalked up nine points from three games,
- Frantic efforts on for replacement
while IAE took the runner up spot with six points followed by North Georgetown on three and Combined Schools who failed to register a point. Annandale Secondary also won the award for the most disciplined team while Andrew Smith of IAE took the MVP prize. The competition was organised by the Holy Family Bible Club and was coordinated by James Lewis who has expressed gratitude to the sponsors.
Led by a fine batting performance from Ruth George, Trophy Stall Angels registered consecutive victories when the Back to Eden, Permaul’s Trading, Khan’s Trading and Trophy Stall softball cricket competition continued recently. In their first encounter at Malteenoes Sports Club, Trophy Stall Angels defeated Swan Strikers by 48 runs. Trophy Stall Angels batted first and managed 144-6 off their allocation of 15 overs. Ruth George struck 90. Swan Strikers were bowled out for 96 in reply. Aneisa Persaud claimed 2-18, Matana Cambridge 2-21 and Alicia Allen 2-27. Trophy Stall Angels overcame 4R Lioness by 16 runs. Trophy Stall Angels took first strike and posted 143-6 in 15 overs. George scored 47 while Malinda Jeffers made 35 and Allen 21. 4R Lioness were restricted for 127-2 in response. Swan Strikers defeated Wellwoman by four wickets. Wellwoman scored 126-6 in 15 overs, batting first. Joan Vansertima got 33 and (Continued on page 33)
Picture of shattered backboard at MSC Hard Court. Following the unfortunate crashing to the floor of one of the fiberglass backboards in Linden which was smashed at the Mackenzie Sports Club recently, the playing of the year ending tournaments including the ‘Fat’ Wayne Andries Memorial, an Under 21 and the Open championship by the governing Linden Amateur Basketball Association, are now in serious doubt says President of the LABA Lawrence Simon. This was the state of affairs over the weekend and up to yesterday as it relates to organized basketball planned by the Linden Amateur Basketball Association at the only available playing facility in Linden. Simon said that a letter from the Mackenzie Sports Club’s President Avery Trim, owners of the court, which is
the ‘Mecca’ for the sport in Linden, was obtained and addressed to Director of Sport Christopher Jones, for which a discussion was held between Jones and Secretary of the LABA Joseph Chapman. In light of this frantic situation, Simon said there is still hope that some form of immediate assistance will be rendered to quickly get the competitions off as planned; even if it meant playing backto-back basketball games to achieve this. It is necessary also that Simon, now an APNU councilor of the Linden municipality, would see it necessary that the new Council focuses on sport facilities across the town to upgrade them for such situations like these. Secretary of the LABA Joseph Chapman is hopeful that from the efforts made to have the replacement
fibreglass backboard fitted as soon as possible that the ‘Fat’ Wayne Andries Memorial tournament will get started on Saturday and the necessary adjustments will have to be made to accommodate the format of the tournaments and ensure that players are able to showcase their skills during the Christmas season. Basketball at the Mackenzie Sports Club over the years has become burdensome and while the playing surface has deteriorated somewhat, it remains the only court that basketball can be played since it is necessary to be played under floodlights for which the MSC is the only one having such. The LABA met last night and should be meeting the clubs tonight which will be playing in the three tournaments planned for what will be a very busy month of basketball.
Bravo and Brathwaite return to Windies ODI squad for Bangladesh series DHAKA, BangladeshThe Selection Panel of Cricket West Indies has named a 15member squad to play Bangladesh in three One Day Internationals on December 9, 11, 14 in Bangladesh. The selection sees the return of Darren Bravo to the ODI squad, along with T20 skipper Carlos Brathwaite and Roston Chase. Recent debutants, Fabian Allen, Chanderpaul Hemraj and Oshane Thomas retained their places following the ODI series against India last month. Due to the absence of regular Captain Jason
Holder, CWI’s Board of Directors has approved Rovman Powell as interim Captain, as the WINDIES seek to reverse the recent 2-1 home series defeat in July 2018. Chairman of Selectors Courtney Browne said, “With two more ODI Series before the 2019 World Cup, the Bangladesh series allows us to narrow our search for our final 15-member World Cup squad. In the absence of Captain Jason Holder, the panel believes the team can still be competitive, especially with the return of Darren Bravo.
Darren’s experience will add value to the batting, which in turn will place selection pressure for spots in the squad. The selection panel therefore takes this opportunity to wish the team much success in Bangladesh.” The full team is as follows: Rovman Powell (Captain), Marlon Samuels, Devendra Bishoo, Roston Chase, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Shimron Hetmyer, Darren Bravo, Shai Hope, Carlos Brathwaite, Keemo Paul, Kieran Powell, Fabian Allen, Kemar Roach, Sunil (Continued on page 33)
Wednesday December 05, 2018
BCB/Ivan Madray Memorial 100 Balls Tournament
RHT Gizmos & Gadgets, Albion, Young Warriors and Tucber Park record victories Earlier this year, the Berbice Cricket Board created history when it became the first Cricket Board in the Caribbean to host a hundred balls tournament at the Second Division level. On Sunday last, the Board again created history when it hosted the opening rounds of the Ivan Madray Memorial 100 Balls Tournament at two venues. The Knock-out Tournament involves nine First Division Teams and is being held in memory of the late legend Ivan Madray, the third Berbician to play Test Cricket after John Trim and Rohan Kanhai. Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets, Albion Community Centre, Tucber Park Cricket club and Young Warriors recorded victories to join Rose Hall Canje Cricket club who drew the Bye in the second round. Scores from the 3rd Round: 1. At Albion Ground: Albion Community Centre defeated Police Cricket Club by eight wickets. Police batting first was dismissed for 91 off 98 Balls. Philbert Wilburg 21, Delbert Hicks 23 and G. Barron 23 were the top scorers as left arm National spinner Gudakesh Motie took 3 for 12 and West Indies spinner Veerasammy Permaul 2 for 16. Albion Community Centre in reply reached 96 for 2 with Kandasammy Surujnarine 29, Adrian Sukhwa 33 not out and Anthony Bramble 21 not out being the best batters. 2. At the 2nd Game at Albion Ground: Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets Cricket Club easily passed West Berbice by 27 runs. National Under-19 Player Junior Sinclair struck an elegant 66 while his elder brother Jason supported with an unbeaten
Junior Sinclair 30 as Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets reached 138 for 6. Steffan Adams 2 for 12 and Sherwin McPherson took 2 for 17 for West Berbice, who in reply could only reach 111 all out in 15.4 overs as Kevin Sinclair 3 for 17 and skipper Shawn Pereira 3 for 26 led the strong bowling attack. R. Mitchell 34 and Keith Fraser 14 were the main batters in a losing cause. 3. At Port Mourant Ground: Joel Davis took 4 for 9 and National Under-17 allrounder Leon Swammy 2 for 18 as Tucber Park bowled out Port Mourant Cricket Club for 63 from 13.5 overs. Samuel Kistasammy 12 and Joshua Ramsammy 12 were the only Port Mourant batsmen to reach double figures. Tucber Park in response, raced to 64 for 2 in just six overs with Nial Smith and Clifton Lindie scoring 25 and 15 respectively. Dimitri Cameron took 1 for 14 for Port Mourant Cricket Club. 4. At Port Mourant
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Ground in the 2nd Match: Young Warriors Cricket Club amassed 152 for 5 to record the highest score in the opening round. National Under-19 opener Alex Algoo 46, Berbice Under-19 player Trevlon Stanislaus 26 and Suresh Dhanai 23 not out were the principal scorers as Marvin Prashad 2 for 30 and Seon Glasgow 1 for 23 bowled well for Blairmont Community Centre. Allrounder Kevin Jawahir then fought a lone hand with a solid 73 as Blairmont ended on 122 for 6 from their 100 Balls. Devendra Ramoutar 3 for 20 and Trevlon Stanislaus 2 for 18 were the best bowlers for the winners. The Tournament is being organised by the Berbice Cricket Board with sponsorship provided by the Madray and Chintamani families. The second round of the tournament would be played on Saturday at the Port Mourant Ground with Albion Community Centre clashing with Young Warriors at 10:30 hours, while Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets and Rose Hall Canje Cricket Club would play at 13:30 hours. The winner of the Albion vs Young Warriors match would advance straight to the Final scheduled for the 16th December at the Port Mourant Ground. Tucber Park Cricket Club would play the winner of the Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets and Rose Hall Canje Cricket Club match in the lone semifinal on Wednesday 12th December at the Port Mourant Ground, the home ground of the late Ivan Madray. The Ivan Madray Memorial 100 Balls is the 26th cricket tournament to be organised by the Berbice Cricket Board to date in 2018.
IAAF upholds Russia’s ban from athletics into 2019
Rune Andersen (right), pictured with IAAF president Lord Sebastian Coe, said the IAAF had received “no assurances” it would receive samples from Moscow’s former anti-doping laboratory. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - Russian athletes will remain banned from international competitions after the IAAF upheld the country’s suspension into 2019. Athletics’ governing body banned Russia in November 2015 because of evidence of state-sponsored doping. The ban will remain in place until samples and data from Moscow’s former antidoping laboratory are made available. Russia must also pay all costs incurred by the work of the IAAF’s task force. “I hope they’ll deliver the data by the end of this year,” said Rune Andersen, head of the IAAF’s task force on Russia. “But I cannot go any further than that. “We’ve received no assurances it will be delivered to us directly. “Assurances have been given to Wada (World AntiDoping Agency) and Wada have set a deadline of 31 December to receive the data. We’ll have to rely on receiving the data from Wada before handing it to the AIU (Athletics Integrity Unit).”
It is the ninth time the IAAF has turned down Russia’s appeal for reinstatement. The decision puts the IAAF at odds with other sporting bodies such as Wada and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), who have revoked their own suspensions of Russia. In February, Russia’s Olympic membership was restored following its suspension from the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Games, while Wada lifted its threeyear ban in September. Travis Tygart, head of the US Anti-Doping Agency, said the decision was “refreshing”. “Over the past three years the IAAF has shown to be the beacon of hope for all sports organisations by taking a lead in addressing doping, standing up for clean athletes by suspending Russia, setting up the truly independent and pioneering Athletics Integrity Unit, and consistently pursuing cases for dopers of Russia’s state-sponsored doping regime,” he said. “The IAAF’s decision to keep Russia suspended is a
refreshing reminder that antidoping decision-making should always be built on principles. “We all hope a clean Russia returns to the international sporting community, but not at the expense of clean athletes and not at the expense of the Olympic values. “Let’s hope this outcome continues to ensure lasting change and the right outcome - that is what clean athletes, governments and sports fans all across the world deserve and expect, now more than ever.”The ruling means Russian athletes will not be able to compete under their own flag at the European Indoor Championships in February. However, athletes who have met the IAAF doping review board’s drug-testing criteria will be allowed to compete under a neutral flag in Glasgow. More than 70 Russian athletes competed as neutrals at the European Championships in Berlin in August. On Tuesday, the IAAF also announced the 2023 World Athletics Championships will be held in Budapest, Hungary.
No 47 Challengers Volleyball club ends successful tour to Suriname After their first night loss the No 47 Challengers novice volleyball club of Corentyne bounced back nicely with their remaining set of matches in their developmental volleyball tour of neighbouring Suriname. In the games played at the Albert Cameron Institute in Paramaribo, First match versus Yelico they won 2-1 with the scores being 25-21, 23-25, 25 - 19. Second match was against Bazukas with the scores ending 2-0 at 25 - 22, 25- 12. They then took on Celon in their third encounter
in a 3 best in 5 affair which the Guyanese won by a 3-1 margin. The scores were 2513, 25 -23, 26-28, 25-21. They had earlier engaged Yelco on the first night in a grueling five setter losing 14. The scores were 25-22, 2523, 28-26, 26-24 and 22-25. The president of the Suriname Volleyball Federation thanked the Guyana team for attending and stated that he is looking forward to more developmental matches of a similar nature, for all categories and gender. The No 47 Challengers
Volleyball Club has been performing outstandingly in the novice’s category in the Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) and has been declared the champion novice team in the county. The players that made the trip that lasted from Friday 30 November to Sunday 2nd were Jaipaul Seenauth, Kevindra Neeharoo, David Etwaroo, Amarnauth Seenauth, Reaad Asgarally, Tyronehh Farley, Devindra Ramdeen, Ravi Rampartab and Khemraj Chatterpaul. (Samuel Whyte)
The successful No 47 Challengers volleyball club in Suriname.
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
Kaieteur News
BCB/Da Silva Motor Spares Under-13 Tournament
Port Mourant lift Title after Salim Khan grabs 8 for 21
The three outstanding performers for PMCC Salim Kahn, Pampertab Ramnauth and Tourah Shaundeo. The once feared Port Mourant Cricket Club is on the move again under the leadership of its vibrant President Vickram Suebarran and Coach Leslie Solomon. The Club on Saturday emerged as Champion of the Berbice Cricket Board Under13 Tournament. They easily defeated Rose Hall Town Poonai Pharmacy on first innings to claim their first Berbice Title since 2005, when they won the RHTYSC Busta Champion of Champions. The Under-13 Tournament was the second of its type to be organised by the
- First major Title since 2005
The Winning Port Mourant Cricket Team poses after the match.
Berbice Cricket Board in its 79 years history. Scottsburg won the Ricks & Sari Under13 Tournament that was organised by the Keith Foster led BCB, nine years ago. Port Mourant won the toss and decided to bat first. They amassed 93 for 5 from their allotted first innings quota of twenty five overs. Openers Rampersaud Ramnauth and Salim Khan gave them a solid opening stand of 35 in fourteen overs before Khan was caught off the bowling of L. Singh for 19. Ramnauth went on to top score with 48 which included four boundaries while K.
Naglen scored 12. Bowling for RHT Poonai Pharmacy, Nelroy Hicks took 2 for 16 and L. Singh 2 for 21. Needing to score 94 in twenty five overs to get First Division points, RHT Poonai Pharmacy were dismissed by a brilliant spell of off spin from the Upper Corentyne based Salim Khan. Khan bowled 9.2 overs to finish with the remarkable figure of 8 for 21. RHT Poonai Pharmacy were bowed out for 40 from 18.2 overs with only Matthew Pottaya reaching double figures. A. Munroe 1 for 10 and Tourah Shaundoo 1 for 6 supported Khan.
In their second innings, Port Mourant Cricket Club reached 26 for 1 when the match was called off early with one hour remaining. Rampersaud Rampertab was eighteen not out, while Matthew Pottaya took the one wicket to fall for 12 runs from 10 overs. BCB President Hilbert Foster expressed gratitude to Mr. Flavio Da Silva of Da Silva Motor Spares for his investment in Berbice Cricket and stated that he was pleased with the level of play by the Under-13 Cricketers. The Da Silva Tournament would serve as a feeder for
the Under-15 level and Foster predicted that players like Salim Khan, Rampertab Ramnauth and Matthew Pottaya would go on to represent Guyana in the future. The BCB President congratulated Port Mourant Cricket Club President Vickram Suebarran for his leadership of the Club and Leslie Solomon for his supervision of the team. Foster disclosed that he is willing to assist the Port Mourant Cricket Club in any way possible to return to its former days. Managing Director of Da Silva Motor Spares Flavio Da
Silva stated that he was delighted to be associated with Berbice Cricket and urged the players to always be disciplined. Da Silva also spoke of the importance of hard work and listening to advice from seniors. The Berbice Cricket Board would also like to acknowledge the contribution of Anil Beharry and Ricky Deonarine. The Champion and Runner-up each received trophies, while each player in the Finals carried home a souvenir and trophy. Man of the Final Salim Khan received a supply of educational materials and a trophy.
GuyanaNRA Action Pistol Year End Championship
Mohamed ‘Arrow’ Qualander and Brian Backer emerge as top individuals The Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) Smallbore Section on Sunday last held its annual year end Action Pistol Shooting championship at the Timehri Rifle Ranges. The well attended event consisted of Three Stages that tested competitors in accuracy and speed against the clock and included shooting from standing, kneeling and prone positions; forced reloads and strong arm only shooting from ranges of 10 meters out to 25 meters with 9mm pistols. At the end of the very competitive championship, Mohamed ‘Arrow’ Qualander (167 points) shot his way to the Overall winner’s trophy with a clinical shooting performance that saw him beating Harold “Top Gun” Hopkinson (163) and Dr. Johan DaSilva (160) into sec-
ond and third places, respectively. Other notable performances included James Singh (159) and GuyanaNRA Smallbore Vice-Captain Gordon Richards (155) who placed fourth and fifth, respectively.The competition also saw participation of shooters in the Junior Class where Brian Backer (119 points) emerged as the top shooter; Jason Cox (98) and Clint McKenzie (92) occupying the second and third places, respectively. Lindsay Baird (91) and Satya Dayaram (86) rounded out the top five positions in this category. The presentation of prizes was done by Captain Dale Hing who thanked the competitors and Range Officers for their participation which allowed for a safe shoot with no safety disqualifications issued.
The participants take time out for a group photo.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
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Kaieteur News
BCB/Brian Ramphal Double Wicket Tournament
Brilliant Pestano leads RHT Gizmos & Gadgets ‘A’ to Title “Promises fulfilled, Mission accomplished”. Those were the words of President of the Berbice Cricket Board Hilbert Foster at the presentation ceremony last Sunday night under lights at the Albion Community Centre Ground. Foster was speaking at the presentation ceremony of the Berbice Cricket Board’s Brian Ramphal Double Wicket Tournament. The Tournament was the 22nd to be successfully completed by the Berbice Cricket Board and fulfilled a promise by the hardworking Foster to organised twenty two tournaments in 2018. Five other tournaments are currently in progress while the Berbice Cricket Board is expected to start another four before yearend. The Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets ‘A’ pair of Clinton Pestano and Kevin Sinclair easily defeated the Albion ’A’ pair of Jonathan Foo and Kevin
Umroa by 51 runs in the Final, which attracted a sizeable crowd. Pestano was at his brutal best as he smashed ten boundaries and two huge sixes from just sixteen balls. He was run out for 53, while his partner Kevin Sinclair was left not out on 11 as their team scored 71 runs from their four overs. A l b i o n ‘ A’ l o s t F o o bowled by medium pacer Sinclair for 05 at 10 for 1 in the second over. A fired up Pestano then scattered the stumps of Kevin Umroa for 0 8 a s A l b i o n ‘ A’ w e r e bowled out for 20 in 2.3 overs to hand the Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets ‘A’ pair a comprehensive victory. Earlier in the evening, Pestano struck 45 to lift his pair to 47 all out from 3.2 overs after Kevin Sinclair was dismissed by the pacy Nial Smith for naught in the f i r s t o v e r. I n r e s p o n s e Tucber Park could only reach 28 in their four overs with Barker contributing 20.
The Brian Ramphal First Division Double Wicket Tournament was the first of its kind to be organised in the 79 years history of the Berbice Cricket Board. President Hilbert Foster, to great applause from the audience, announced that every promise and committment has been fulfilled by his administration in 2018. Foster expressed gratitude to the United States based Ramphal for his continued investment into Berbice Cricket. T h e D o u b l e Wi c k e t Tournament was one of several programmes/ events organised by the Berbice Cricket Board with the one million dollars donated by Brian Ramphal. Pestano and Sinclair received $75,000 and a trophy, while the 2nd and 3rd place prizes were $40,000 and $20,000 respectively. The pairs were supported by six of their club members in the field while each pair had to bat four overs.
BCB appointed executive Neil Rudder hands over trophy to Clinton Pestano and Kevin Sinclair.
GIKMAA concludes its final Exams of the year The Guyana International Kyokushinkai Martial Arts Academy (GIKMAA) has just concluded its final Exams of the year where 34 students took part in a Karate Exam under the watchful eyes of Dr. Nazim Yassim, moving from one level to the next. From Enmore 18 students, Wales 9 students, and Enterprise 7 students participated in the exercise. In full the results of the Exam: From Enterprise: Satish Udit, ShonnaSeusingh, and Rahul Miaram(10thKyu to 9thKyu Yellow Stripe) David Mangru, Nickolas Rampersaud, Nirel Ramrattan and Alesha Paul (9thKyu Yellow Stripe to 8thKyu Yellow belt) From Wales: Junior Shilchand, Ganesh Persaud and Sharada Sookwah (9thKyu Yellow Stripe to 8thKyu Yellow belt) Marcus Chowtie (Green belt) John Brown and Christian Freeman (5th& 4thKyu blue belt) While Nkosi Jupiter, Bhudesh Shilchand (3rd& 2ndKyu Brown Belt) and Maranda Bennett (Judging 7 Weapons) From Enmore: Dharshanie Ahmad, and Shahid Shah (10thKyu to 9thKyu Yellow Stripe) Ronald Ramkissoon, Mark Sue-Poi, Antonio
The successful students display their certificates following the presentation. Kumar, Anthony Gouveia and Jefferson Jaikissoon (9thKyu Yellow Stripe to 8thKyu Yellow belt) While Naveed N. Emamally and Mohamad Yasin (7thKyu Orange belt) Avinash Somwaru and Totaram Jainarain (6thKyu Green belt) Govindanath Persaud (5thKyu Blue belt
And Jason Haywood and Shakeel Rahat (2ndKyu Brown Belt) Kelvin Walcott, Umisha Parasram, Vikash Somwaru, Govind Ramkur. As Chief Instructor Kelvin Walcott, Senior Instructor Maranda Bennett, Junior Instructors Umisha Parasram and Vikash Somwaru, Sampais Govind
Ramkur and Bhudesh Shilchand have completed their 1st Dan Kobudo Weapons Exams and to complete their “D” level refereeing and Judging exams this weekend at the Yearend Inter-club Bragging Rights Championship. The students put on an amazing display in their final
out door training session in the national park two Sundays ago after which they received their certificates. Dr. Nazim is very happy with the progress of his students and their discipline; they worked very hard for their exams, as he now looks forward to the Yearend Interclub Bragging Rights Cham-
pionship, this weekend at the Enmore community centre. Contact can be made with the Guyana Int’l Kyokushinkai Martial Arts Academy by calling SOKE Nazim Yassim on Telephone # 592-662-7211/592-654-2789 or visit their Facebook page: Kyokushinkai Guyana for details on joining the organisation.
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 05, 2018
BCB/ Pepsi 50-Overs First Division Tournament
RHT Gizmos & Gadgets crush Young Warriors CC by 202 runs to lift Title - Kevin Sinclair hits brilliant 130
DDL Regional Manager hands over trophy and prize to Shawn Pereira. The Berbice Cricket Board on Sunday completed its 21st Cricket Tournament for 2018 when it hosted the Pepsi 50-Overs Final at the Albion Cricket Ground under lights. The powerful Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets Team under the inspirational leadership of Shawn Pereira claimed their third major Title for the year when they crushed Young Warriors Cricket Club by a massive 202 runs infront of a fair sized crowd. The Tournament was sponsored by the Demerara Distillers Ltd under the International Brand “Pepsi”. Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets won the toss and elected to bat. They were given a brisk start of 59 from 7.3 overs before left arm
spinner Trevlon Stanislaus, who played for Berbice at the Under-19 level, trapped National Under-19 player Junior Sinclair for 20. Fellow opener Kevin Sinclair and the promising Kevlon Anderson then added 161 for the second wicket with Sinclair smashing a brilliant 130, which included sixteen boundaries and two massive sixes. Anderson continued his rich run of form with a classy 76 (5 boundaries). National Senior Player Clinton Pestano blasted a quick fire 60 (5x4, 5x6) as Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets were bowled out for 319 runs in their full 50-Overs. Medium pacer Suresh Dhanai took 2 for 64, while Trevlon
The winning RHTGG Team with DDL Regional Manager. Stanislaus took 3 for 62. Needing to score 320 runs from 50-Overs, Young Warriors Cricket Club lost Vishal Mohabir without a run to his name when he was brilliantly caught and bowled by former National offspinner Eon Hooper. The Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets bowlers never released the pressure and Young Warriors Cricket Club struggled to 116 all out from 38 Overs. Linden Austin, a former Guyana Under-19 all rounder, top scored with 24 while Stanislaus returned with the bat to score 21. Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets Captain Shawn Pereira continued his excellent season with 3 wickets for 23 runs from 10 Overs, while
Eon Hooper 2 for 19 (10 Overs) and Kevlon Anderson 2 for 05 supported well in a brilliant all round bowling performances by the Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets attack. BCB President Hilbert Foster at the presentation ceremony expressed gratitude to DDL and Pepsi for their investment into Berbice Cricket. Foster hailed the contribution of Marketing Executive Larry Wills for his support and former West Indies Captain Ramnaresh Sarwan for the role he played in obtaining the sponsorship deal. Foster stated that Berbice Cricket was enjoying the most progressive period of its 79 years history and that the county
plays more cricket than the rest of Guyana combined. Captains Shawn Pereira and Seon Hetmyer both congratulated the Berbice Cricket Board on the outstanding work it was doing to promote the game in Berbice. Hetmyer stated that Young Warriors Cricket Club was proud to be part of the Finals but that Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets was a stronger team. The Young Warriors Cricket Club was only recently reformed after being dormant for a while. The winning team collected $100,000 and a trophy and the runner-up carried home $50,000 and trophy. Kevin Sinclair was named Man of the Final for his brilliant 130 and 1 for 31 from seven over.
Jaguars quietly confident ahead of Regional 4-day tourney By Sean Devers
F
our times defending R e g i o n a l F o u r- D a y Champions Guyana Jaguars are on a 10 game unbeaten streak; having not lost a match since the final game of the 2016/17 season when Leewards Hurricanes beat them in St Kitts. Tomorrow in St Lucia they begin their campaign for their fifth consecutive title and 12thoverall since Rohan Kanhai led them to their first in 1973, when they faceoff with Windwards Volcanoes at the Daren Sammy Stadium. The South American Franchise is without young Caribbean batting sensation Shimron Hetymer, Devendra Bishoo, Kemo Paul, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Raymon
Reifer and Sherfane Rutherford. Captain Leon Johnson, who led Guyana for the first time in 2013 against the Windwards when Skipper Veerasammy Permaul was on West Indies duty, feels the absence of the Windies players will give their replacements a chance to show their worth when asked, how badly would the West Indies players be missed. “I can’t say how badly they would be missed but while we know they are obviously talented and would bring quality to the table, it gives an opportunity to the guys who have been selected, to play well and make it hard for the selectors when senior players become available,” informed Johnson, who has lost just five of the 42 games he has led Guyana in while winning 27 times. “I am quietly confident going into this season as defending Champions with a team which has dominated Regional four-day for the last four seasons but everybody starts at zero …all the teams are on zero …. all batters and bowlers are on zero. Come Thursday we can’t take it
Face Volcanoes at Daren Sammy Stadium from tomorrow
for granted that we could just turn up and win games. We have to go through a process and we have to be
Leon Johnson during his 118 at Providence during the practice match.
patient as we usually are and play consistent cricket which has been our strength,” said Guyana’s most
successful Captain. Rain and the unavalibity of grounds forced Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) to call off the eight-team three-day franchise League which replaced the Inter-County tournament and both of the Jaguars’ practice matches were affected by rain. “I think the two practice matches went well but I won’t say I was totally satisfied since a couple of the batters selected did not get enough time in the middle because the matches were affected by rain,” lamented Johnson who played the last of his nine Tests just over two years ago. Johnson, however, made the most of the last practice match at Providence; scoring a brilliant century, form which he hopes to carry into the tournament and reproduce his 2016 performance when he scored two tons in 807 runs. “It was nice to score a hundred and it’s good for my confidence going into the tournament,” concluded Johnson, who played his 100thFirst-Class match and 80thfor Guyana tomorrow.
Wednesday December 05, 2018
GAPLF Senior Nationals 2018 The 2018 edition of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) was contested on Sunday last at Saints Stanislaus College Auditorium where a total of 28 records were set by 13 of the 26 competitors, half of the athletes that took to the platform. Kaieteur Sport is pleased to introduce you to these courageous athletes whose disciplined work saw them reaping the rewards of being the best whilst setting national standards. These athletes have also placed themselves into contention of making the national team for overseas competitions in 2018. (Continued on page 33)
Kaieteur News
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Meet the Record Breakers Runita White (Buddys Gym), Junior Classic 84+kg Class, Squat (182.5kg), Bench Press (75.0kg), Deadlift (196.0kg) and Total (453.5kg).
Junica Pluck (Space Gym), 63kg Open Equipped Category, Squat (135.5kg), Bench Press (68.0kg), Deadlift (133.0kg) and Total (336.5kg).
Natoya Robinson (Buddys Gym), Open Classic 84+kg Class, Bench (93.0kg) and Deadlift (200.0kg).
Ramzam Mohamed (Hardcore Barbel Club), Junior Equipped 120kg Class, Squat (285.0kg), Deadlift (245.0kg) and Total (672.5kg).
Lisa Oudit (Buddys Gym), Open Classic 84kg Class, Deadlift (151.0kg) and Total (336.0kg).
Frank Tucker (Kingsrow Barbel Club), Master 3, 2 and 1 Equipped 105kg Class, Deadlift (205.0kg).
Bjorn Williams (GAPLF), Open Classic 105kg Class, Bench (150.0kg) and Total (635.0kg)
Blossom Babb (Tower Gym), Open Classic 84kg Class, Bench Press (65.0kg).
Joseph Stoll (Buddys Gym), Master 2 Classic 105kg Class, Deadlift (200.0kg). Vijai Rahim (Hardcore Barbel Club), Open Equipped 74kg Class, Bench (172.5kg) and Deadlift (297.5kg).
Franklyn Brisport-Luke (GAPLF), Master 2 Classic 66kg Class, Squat (132.5kg).
rt o p S Darren Bravo during the CPL 2017 ©Randy Brooks - CPL T20 / Getty
Carlos Brathwaite successfully appeals for a wicket v Bangladesh, 3rd T20I, Lauderhill, August 5, 2018 ©AFP
Bravo and Brathwaite return to Windies ODI squad for Bangladesh series GuyanaNRA Action Pistol Year End Championship
Junior champ Brian Backer collects his medal from Dale Hing.
Senior winner Mohamed Qualander (left) receiving his trophy from GuyanaNRA Smallbore Captain, Dale Hing.
Mohamed ‘Arrow’ Qualander and Brian Backer emerge as top individuals Hetmyer up 28 spots despite Windies horror series Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.