Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news...Letters... Where your views make the news
Former UG Registrar speaks on the Freddie Kissoon dismissal from UG DEAR EDITOR, My disposition on writing letters to the Press has been to give factual reports, dispel erroneous information and expose mischief makers. On this occasion, my objectives is to draw the readers attention to the facts on Kaieteur News report, of Dec 5, 2015, on Freddie Kissoon’s termination, by UG, thus ensuring that no misconstrued role is attributed to me. The report indicated that the Ombudsman’ s letter of advice was dated Dec 22, 2014. My last working day at UG was Dec 23, 2014. In preparation for a seamless handing-over I had ceased, over a month prior to Dec 23,
2014, receiving any correspondence and or dealing with any new matter. That letter might have been addressed to me but, in the circumstances referred to above, would not have been directed to me, upon receipt, since it was dated on Dec 22 when I had already ceased handling incoming correspondence and its delivery most likely was on or after Dec 23, the day when the University closed for the Christmas break and I demitted office. Jan 6, 2015 when the Ombudsman was reported to have made his pronouncement was beyond my period at UG. The aforementioned should
Questions for Ralph Ramkarran DEAR EDITOR, Referring to SN 3rd December 2015. It is most interesting that Ralph Ramkarran can level these accusations against the PPP Government only now. However, I would to like to ask Ralph some simple questions. 1. When his office Cameron & Sheppard was the lawyer firm for MMA, was his office not “handpicked” for the job? Did he go through Procurement Council or Tender for the job? What about Guysuco? Isn’t it the same? 2. Did he not feel uncomfortable accepting salary from the PPP Government knowing that the PPP was corrupt? 3. From 1976 – 2012 he was in the Executive Council for the PPP, did he not know that he was sitting with a bunch of corrupt people? At the said time he was seeking to be presidential candidate for a party that is full of corrupt individuals? 4. When the PPP was in office, how did he feel about his legal practice accepting cases from the PPP? Did he not know that he was accepting corrupt and bad money? Did he go through the Procurement Committee in order to get those cases? Was it not a conflict of interest? Mohamed Cayum Yaseen
dismiss any thought that I was at UG and associated with the response or lack of to the Ombudsman’s advisory on Kissoon’s termination. May I however share some knowledge on the Office of the Ombudsman as it pertains to the Kissoon or any such case. 1. That the Ombudsman pronounced on the matter was an acceptance, by him, that the termination was not illegal and could not have been the subject of judicial redress. The Ombudsman’s jurisdiction is restricted to matters of maladministration or wrong doing that are not justiciable. 2. He could only have concluded that Kissoon was unfairly dismissed. With that view I concur. 3. While an organization is not compelled to act on the advisory of the Ombudsman, it may be acted on in the interest of justice/fairness. 4. The equally fundamental role of the Ombudsman is to submit an annual report to the National Assembly, which report may bring to the attention of the law makers lacunae in the law. In this instance the lacuna is the absence of provisions, in our laws, for the termination of employment, by the employer, to be effected only when cause is proffered. It is for the legislators to determine whether or not they accepted that there is a lacuna and if so whether it should be plugged. Vincent Alexander
Seed paddy sold to farmers is horribly infested DEAR EDITOR, I have previously written in the press about the poor quality of seed paddy produced and sold to farmers by the GRDB Rice Research Station, now there is a second and more serious occurrence due to poor management and neglect that lead to further deteriorate in seed quality. The seed paddy currently sold to farmers now is seriously infected with rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae (Linnaeus)) and other storage pest such as the lesser grain borer moth, Angoumois grain moth, etc. Of these storage pests the rice weevils appear to be the most predominant on the seed paddy sold by the Rice Research Station and it is one of the most destructive grain pests. The adult weevil can lays up to 450 eggs singly in holes chewed in the paddy grains. During ideal condition, each egg hatches into a white, legless larva, which eats the grain from the
inside. The larva pupates within the grain and the adult then chew its way out. The exit holes are characteristic signs of weevil damage. The life cycle takes about one month under Guyana conditions and adults may survive for a further eight months. The rice weevil has four orange-brown areas on the wing cases, and is about 3mm long with a characteristic rostrum (snout) protruding from its head. It has biting mouth parts at the front of the rostrum and two club-like antennae. The rice weevil is winged and may occasionally fly. The rice weevil capable to cause a reduction in grain weight from 5 to over 15 % depends on the level of infestation. Grains which are not lost is severely reduced in quality by insect damage. Many grain pests preferentially eat out grain embryos, thereby reducing the protein content of feed grain and lowering the percentage of seeds which germinate.
It is my view and form communication with my fellow farmers the seed paddy at the GRDB Rice Research Station sold showed very pronounced sign of grain damages with high number of holes visible, which means that these storage pest had a long uninterrupted feast and the ideal condition (such as improper packing and spacing, incorrect heights, poor sanitation etc) prevail in the area where the seeds were stored. The damages will certainly affect the percentage seed germination and field establishment of the rice in this coming crop. Farmers who purchase to be alert and apply some kind of seed treatment (either cultural, mechanical or chemical) and prevent further grain damage if seeds still in store. The Minister of Agriculture and Chairman and directors of GRDB board need to investigate and take strong disciplinary action for this serious neglect by some who allowed this damage to occur and farmers to suffer. Terry Ross
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Kaieteur News
Monday December 07, 2015
SARU zeros in on sole sourcing between New GPC and previous Govt. In the coming weeks, the State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU) is expected to zero in on all aspects of sole sourcing which occurred between the previous regime and New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (New GPC), which is owned by Dr. Ranjisingh ‘Bobby’ Ramroop. He is said to be the best friend of former President and now Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo. SARU’s Head, Dr. Clive Thomas emphasized that he is interested in examining all aspects of possible corruption involving the state’s assets in any sector. It is upon that premise that Dr. Thomas said his office will “Zero in on the sole sourcing of drug contracts” under the previous regime as he believes it involves “Some of the most disturbing cases of misappropriation of the state’s finances.” The Economist said, “Sole sourcing has the potential for corruption to take place and I am of the firm belief that this type of procurement was highly abused by the former administration. But at the same time I want to make it clear that I am not saying that all sole sourcing is unlawful. Once used in the correct circumstance where there is an emergency and it can be proven that only one
SARU Head, Dr. Clive Thomas particular company can provide what is needed, then of course, one can be allowed to proceed.” Dr. Thomas said that in the case of NEW GPC, “There was no need to have this company be given the lion’s share of the drug contracts because it was not a case where it was supplying drugs that no one else could have provided for us. There was no emergency to justify using this one company alone in many instances and so the PPP simply helped this one man to build an empire in the Health Sector.” The SARU head said that Guyana, in the process, lost billions of dollars in sole sourcing drug contracts as opposed to allowing other qualified bidders to “Get a fair
shot and more importantly, allowing the country to get more competitive price through tendering.” He reminded that the Auditor General, Deodat Sharma also conducted a special report on sole sourcing. Dr. Thomas said that even though his office has not seen the document, he is eager to see its findings which he would also use as a guide or a supplement for his own groundwork. Dr. Thomas continued, “I also want to emphasize the point that there was significant loss of state capital under sole sourcing and the estimate by the former Auditor General, Anand Goolsarran was over US$140M which was lost through the procurement process. So indeed this is something we are going to look into in-depth and have already started to some degree. We cannot allow certain injustices against this nation to just slip by us.” Chartered Accountant, Anand Goolsarran, contended in various instances that the weak systems of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) need to be addressed by the new administration once and for all as they are costing the country approximately $28B
No place for “extremism” in... (From page 3) employees. Twenty one persons were also injured in the mass shootings. On November 13, 128 persons were killed in Paris after a coordinated attacked by Islamic terrorists equipped with AK-47’s and strapped with bombs. The taking of these innocent lives occurred at six sites throughout the French capital. Speaking on the carnage, Granger affirmed that there
is no teaching in Islam, Christianity and Hinduism that justifies the taking of lives—”the massacres, the killing of innocent people”. The Head of State is calling on all Guyanese to continue the tradition of religious tolerance. He pledged his support in working with GIT and members of the Islamic community in Guyana that have been condemning such nasty attacks. President Granger said
that such attacks will do harm to Guyana. He pointed out that the country has faced many problems—political and economical,—but he has never heard of any religious riots or fights among the three main religions in Guyana. Exactly one year ago Guyana born Adnan Gulshair el Shukrijumah who was listed as one of the world’s most wanted terrorists was killed in Pakistan.
annually. Goolsarran said that it is critical for the Ministry of Finance to review the operations of NPTAB, given the fact that the agency has been cited by the Auditor General for numerous cases of financial discrepancies. He emphasized that about 70 percent of the national budget relates to public procurement. The former Auditor General then pointed to credible allegations of corrupt behaviour in public procurement. These included sole sourcing of drug contracts to Ramroop, contract splitting, inflated engineer ’s estimates, evaluation bias on behalf of favoured contractors, the use of inexperienced contractors, the absence of competitive bidding in some cases and overpayment to contractors. Goolsarran said that at least, some $28 billion or US$140M is lost annually by looking at those areas. His estimation was garnered from an overview of the Auditor General’s reports on the country’s accounts over the past few years. A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) have also spoken against the award of billion dollar drug contracts in favour of the New GPC owner, while bringing particular focus to the manner in which the previous administration changed the laws to ensure that Ramroop’s company would be used for the sole sourcing of drugs. When it served in the Opposition, the current administration had lashed out at the PPP/C for granting billions of dollars worth in contracts to NEW GPC during the lead up to the May 11 National and Regional Elections. On May 8, last, New GPC uplifted the entire billiondollar cheque for a drug contract awarded to it by the
New GPC owner, Dr. Ranjisingh ‘Bobby’ Ramroop
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo
PPP/C administration. That was the last working day before General and Regional elections. The payment arrangement was also contrary to all the country’s procurement procedures. AFC Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan, had described the situation surrounding the health contracts and New GPC is nothing but “kickdown-the door banditry.” Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge, had said that he finds the actions of the previous Government in the lead up to the May 11 polls, to be evidence of how “evil, corrupt, greedy and ruthless” it can be. He had stated that days before May 11, the past administration sought to chastise the media, particularly Kaieteur News and Stabroek News when the entities exposed its “nasty and most corrupt acts.” This newspaper had reported that the former administration had given out contracts for the procurement of drugs worth some US$12.8 million ($2,677,864,510) to New GPC. Three Cabinet Minutes had been leaked and reproduced in the electronic media. The document showed that Cabinet approved its most expensive contract for $6,730,526 dated April 23, 2015. It was signed by former Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Roger Luncheon. Greenidge had said that the PPP/C has given so much to Dr. Ramroop by breaking the laws that it has made him “a king in his country.” “Another critical point we need to pay attention to, and that is the fact that Ramroop was given the opportunity to supply almost 85 percent of the country’s drugs for nearly 20 years. Considering the empire he has been able to build through the sole sourcing of drugs, we see clearly, too, for how long value for money in the health sector has been evaded.” It is estimated that over the past seven years, more
than US$200 million was spent on drug purchases, with the lion’s share going to New GPC. Greenidge had said that the control Jagdeo gave Ramroop over the Health Sector is not only unhealthy for the competitive market, but it also mars attempts at transparency and accountability. The politician had reiterated that through the sole sourcing of drugs, “Jagdeo and his government did not only ruthlessly rob the nation, but invited his best friend to help to further corrupt the system and to rob the poor people at the same time.” The pre-qualification criteria which were used to allow New GPC to be chosen, had also been described by the government as being “unreasonable” and tailormade to have that company secure the status. The previous list of companies that were prequalified to supply drugs expired since December, last. Prior to inviting submissions for another round of prequalification, the PPP/C revised the criteria. This led to the accusations that it was positioning New GPC to be the only company meeting the requirements to win out. Under the revised criteria, bidders had to demonstrate a gross annual turnover of US$5 million and net assets of US$2.5 million. Another criterion was that maximum score was to be awarded to applicants who would have paid $50M in Corporate taxes, annually. Additionally, the company that has 50 or more employees, and warehousing capacity of 30,000 square feet in the city, will also gain an edge. New GPC has been a feature in the Auditor General’s report over the years with several instances focused on multi-milliondollar deficiencies in the procurement and supply of drugs under the previous administration.
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
Turkey angered by rocketbrandishing on Russian naval ship passing Istanbul ISTANBUL (Reuters) Turkey accused Russia of a “provocation” yesterday after a serviceman on the deck of a Russian naval ship allegedly held a rocket launcher on his shoulder while the vessel passed through Istanbul. Relations have deteriorated sharply since Turkey last week became the first NATO member in more than half a century to down a Russian plane, which it said had violated its airspace while flying sorties over Syria. The pilot was killed. The NTV news channel broadcast photographs that it said showed a serviceman brandishing a rocket launcher on the deck of the landing ship Caesar Kunikov as it passed on Saturday through the Bosphorus Strait, which bisects the city of Istanbul. It said the ship was believed to be en route to Syria. “For a Russian soldier to display a rocket launcher or something similar while passing on a Russian warship is a provocation,” Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told reporters, according to the Hurriyet news site. “If we perceive a threatening situation, we will give the necessary response.” The Bosphorus offers the
Mevlut Cavusoglu only passage to the world’s oceans for the Russian Black Sea fleet. AWorld War One-era treaty obliges Turkey to allow all ships to pass during peacetime. Turkey had considered Russia a strategic partner as its main energy supplier, despite deep differences over Syria. But since Turkey shot the plane down, Moscow has introduced economic sanctions including a ban on Turkish foods and other products worth as much as $1 billion.NTV said three NATO frigates with Canadian, Spanish and Portuguese flags had been moored in Istanbul as the Caesar Kunikov passed through.
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Sweden-Israel rift deepens over comments on Palestinian deaths Reuters - Relations between Sweden and Israel hit a fresh low yesterday after Israel said Sweden’s foreign minister had accused it of unlawful killings and Stockholm responded by saying that the comments had been “blown out of reasonable proportion”. Relations between the two countries have nosedived since Sweden’s Social Democrat-led government recognised a Palestinian state last year. Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom deepened the rift by describing Palestinians’ plight as a factor leading to Islamist radicalisation. In the latest row, Israel condemned as “scandalous” yesterday what it said was a suggestion by Wallstrom its forces had unlawfully killed Palestinians involved in a surge of street violence, and warned of a diplomatic rupture with Stockholm. Sweden said Wallstrom’s comments had been misunderstood. “The Minister for Foreign Affairs did not, as alleged, say that extrajudicial executions occur in Israel,” Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven and Wallstrom
Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Margot Wallstrom gives a statement to media regarding the attacks in Paris, in Stockholm, Sweden. REUTERS/HENRIK MONTGOMERY/TT NEWS AGENCY said in a statement. “The situation in the Middle East is difficult enough without having to be encumbered by misunderstandings about anybody’s intentions.” In the latest violence in Jerusalem, yesterday, a Palestinian rammed his car into a passer-by in a Jewish neighbourhood, slightly injuring him, and then got out of the vehicle and stabbed another man, who suffered
superficial wounds. Addressing Swedish lawmakers on Friday, Wallstrom denounced the almost daily Palestinian knife, gun or car-ramming attacks but urged Israel to avoid excessive force. “And likewise, the response must not be of the kind — and this is what I say in other situations where the response is such that it results in extrajudicial executions or is
disproportionate in that the number of people killed on that side exceeds the original number of deaths many times over,” Wallstrom said in the official English translation of her statement provided by the ministry. Sweden said she had been talking in general terms about the principles of international law concerning self-defence and the importance of responding in a proportional manner.
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Kaieteur News
Monday December 07, 2015
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Too many sellers for a small economy Has anyone ever wondered why there are no “Sale” campaigns in Guyana? In the past, at various times of the year, the major department stores would call a ‘sale’ in which the prices of most items would be slashed. Consumers would go down to these “sales” in their droves and devour the items on sale which went like hot cakes on a cold day. Those
days are gone, long gone. But has anyone ever wondered why? The departmental stores are no longer around. Guyana Stores and Fogarty’s can no longer be considered as department stores even though they do offer a wide range of items. They simply do not have the customer base as before and are most likely running at
losses and facing stiff competition for other businesses. As such they cannot launch a ‘sale’ anymore. There are thousands of small businesses that have sprung up in the country. They have sprung up all over. There is no longer any regard for zoning. People somehow are able to set up shop wherever they feel.
Dem boys seh...
NO HOLE CAN ‘HOLE’ CLINTY DE WILLY When most people do wrong dem does run and hide. Dem learn that from small, and Jagdeo, that scamp, reinforce it to de nation. Every time he get ketch like when he give way Sanata complex to he best friend, Babbie, fuh next to nutten, he run and hide when dem boys start to question he. When he couldn’t hide no more because he is president, he tell de nation that when his Cabinet was making de decision, he walk out de meeting. He seh that he didn’t want to get blame. He really believe that de Guyanese people buy that crap. Dem boys hope this new govt re-look at that deal because Babbie never live up to de requirement. Clinty de Willie wuk under Jagdeo; he get ketch de
same way dat Jagdeo get ketch. He try fuh hide but wid that size he couldn’t find a hole to ‘hole’ he. Dem boys hear he manage to hide he head but de fat ass lef up in de air suh dem boys can have a field day. He get ketch eating out de people money by de millions and siphon off de people of this country land. Dem boys hear that Jagdeo and de other fat crook, Brassington advise him fuh respond when de news buss out. Clinty de Willy tell de nation in one breath that he don’t authorize mining permits, that de different departments does handle that. However, in de same breath he seh de GGMC head does sign and he does countersign. Then he respond to de
power of attorney and he shame to mention de word ‘IRREVOCABLE’ in front de Power of Attorney. Dem boys want know if he can explain why, or ask Jagdeo how to respond to that. When it come to de $4 million eating, he seh that members of de commission were there at all times. Dem boys want to know if he and de members were really doing de people work or dem been pun a eating competition. Dem boys want tell Clinty that dem believe every word he seh. Dem also believe that everybody else eat. Dem boys also believe him when he seh he had nothing to do wid de mining lands for which he now holds an irrevocable power of attorney. Talk half and wait fuh de answer.
And because they have this liberty, they are setting up shop in every conceivable place. Everybody is selling something. At times you have to wonder if there are more boutiques than people in this country. Everywhere you turn somebody is selling clothes. How often do people buy clothes in this country? This country’s small population, most of whom are poor, cannot support the number of cake shops there are much less the larger number of stores selling clothes. On top of this, a number of stores owned by foreign nationals have been established and they have taken away markets from locally-owned businesses. The economy cannot sustain all of these businesses. The commercial sector is suffering also because there is a problem in the economy. The commercial sector however was bound to
implode because there are too many sellers for such a small economy. Nobody can afford a clearance sale anymore because business is already slow because of the number of sellers. Christmas is not going to bring any revival. Christmas is going to bring out a lot of goods from the storerooms of businesses. There will be a lot of goods but not many buyers because everybody is selling something. People at workplaces are getting barrels and these persons are selling the contents to their fellow workers. The sales for the stores are being reduced as a result. What Guyana needs are some mass employers. The former government had some plans in this regard and they are worth looking at again. We know there was a lot of corruption under the PPP but you cannot throw out the baby with the bathwater. The PPP had some good plans; the problem is that these plans
were being promoted by the wrong people. Those plans to set up factories and to set up call centers should be looked at again. People have to start producing again. Food is too expensive. Building material costs are too high. The economy is growing or was growing but yet the cost of living is increasing. A great many small businesses are doing no businesses. The owners are just keeping them going to protect the fixed assets. These stores are accumulating debt and they are not meeting their recurrent expenditure. For all intents and purposes they are broke and will collapse. This was always going to happen. It just so happened that these problems are multiplying under the new government because there is no plan to stimulate demand in the economy.
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Men must respect women’s equality President David Granger has called on men to respect women’s equality as he outlined, what he called, the three pillars of gender relations, yesterday afternoon, at the National Association of the Adventist Men’s Ministry 2015 Men’s Conference, which was held in the main auditorium of the Sophia Exhibition Centre. “Christian men have to respect women as being equal in dignity. Christian men must get away from the notion that women must be submissive or subordinate… women must be respected, they must be loved, they must be revered,” he said. Adding that there is no form of reasoning that can diminish respect for gender equality, the President said that these virtues must be learnt in the homes and then practised in the wider society. Further, the Head of State said respect should go beyond gender and include race and religion. “We have to build respect in all of our religions and I do believe that in Islam, in Christianity and in Hinduism, respect for human life is paramount, that respect of the equality of a man is not something only in our constitution, but is something in the Bible, and must be in our hearts as well,” he said. Another equally important pillar of manhood posited by the President is the ability to make responsible choices. “Sometimes, depending on our upbringing, we make decisions that are conditioned by non-rational motives… these choices have to be responsible Christian choices. Go back to the Bible and learn from the life of Christ,” he said. More often than not, the President said, people fail to realise that their choices have consequences that can be to their detriment. ”We have to make a choice as fathers. Listen to the advice that you
- President Granger tells Adventist Men’s Conference
President David Granger shares a warm handshake with Pastor Exton Clark as he receives a token of appreciation for his participation in the National Association of Adventist Men’s Ministry 2015 Men’s Conference. were given to make sure that your child goes to school, stays in school and graduates”, he said. The third pillar that is necessary in today’s world is “resolution”, President Granger said, noting that in today’s challenging society, it is easy to walk away from responsibility. “You must have responsibility for every child you bring into this world, and the churches must insist, society must insist, we must abolish forever the expression ‘single parent household’… The love of a mother and the lessons of a father are critical to a child’s wellbeing”, he said. Expanding on the importance of the role of the father, President Granger added, “There are many things a child has to learn from a father and if that father is absent, the child may very well grow up without those lessons; the lessons of responsibility, the lessons of discipline, the lessons of
orderliness.” Calling the Men’s Conference timely, the President said it is an important platform for defining a new model of manhood in a changing society. “When people speak of gender issues, they speak largely of and to women, and the Church today is speaking of and to men because men are part of the problem. So I’m very glad for this initiative,” he said. Citing the theme for the conference, “Equipping men for today’s challenges”, the President underscored the importance of understanding the way a man thinks and how he views his masculinity. He posited that the event is a continuous journey of educating and equipping men to work in a more harmonious environment. He added that while generations have inherited
conventions and practices for centuries, in the 21st Century, respect for women is indispensable as they make up half of the world’s population. The Church must then ensure that there are no inequalities. “Our societies are undergoing rapid changes at all levels…and these changes have made an impact on the role of women. Women now have greater opportunities,” he said. According to the President, there is a new norm where women are rising to the highest echelons of office in society. “Their (women) successes have challenged [the] traditional dominance of men, and sometimes, men have become resentful and try to hold back the tide or even turn back the tide. So, we need to prepare for the future. We need to get our sons accustomed to regarding girl
children not only as objects of affection, but as objects of respect and we need to get our girls to respect themselves,” the President said. Referencing the two recent acts of terrorism in Paris, France and San Bernardino, California, President Granger said men have an important leadership role to play in ensuring that extremism does not take hold in Guyana. “We, as Christians, need to be aware of the occurrences that are taking place in the world and hold fast to our faith, hold fast to our doctrine, hold fast to our belief in humanity, hold strong to our respect for the views of other people, and not allow ourselves to be drowned in an ocean of extremism,” President Granger said. The President said that as persons with strong beliefs grounded in the Bible, men should not allow the local political climate and culture to be contaminated by extremist views. “We have several problems in Guyana, but religious extremism should find no place in our heart to allow the relations between Guyanese to degenerate to the level that we saw just 70 hours ago in San Bernardino,” he told the audience. With social media playing a role in promoting religious extremism, the President said
the church needs to provide guidance to lead members of the society away from that path. “We have to ensure that we as men, as fathers, provide the type of guidance, which will prevent them from taking the path toward extremism,” he said. Meanwhile, at the event, the National Association of Adventist Men’s Ministry took the opportunity to honour some longstanding members, who have been serving not only the association but their respective communities. George Union was one of those recognised for providing humanitarian services in and out of the Seventh-day Adventist circle for more than 60 years. The conference, which began on Friday and will conclude today, has so far featured presentations on men’s health, skill harnessing, empowerment and the importance of responsibility. Dr. Leon C. Wilson, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs of the Alabama State University was one of the distinguished guest speakers featured at the event. Wilson is an expert in Social Psychology. He also holds a Master of Arts in Religion and Counselling from Andrews University in Michigan and a Bachelor of Theology from Caribbean Union College, now known as the University of the Southern Caribbean.
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Kaieteur News
Monday December 07, 2015
Businessman detained over allegedly Legislation to relax marijuana discharging rounds indiscriminately convictions for Parliament A Cummingslodge businessman was yesterday released on station bail after “cooling off” for a night in the Sparendaam Police Station lock ups. The businessman was arrested on Saturday for allegedly discharging his firearm indiscriminately during a drunken rage. According to the police, ranks at the Turkeyen Police Station received an anonymous call around 21:00 hours on Saturday informing them that the businessman was indiscriminately discharging multiple rounds in the Cummings Lodge area. The police went to the scene and confronted the businessman, who was
sitting in his vehicle with a gun on the front passenger seat. A police source related that the man, who appeared to be heavily under the influence of alcohol, was invited to the station where he told the police that he is the holder of a firearm licence. His weapon along with 22 live rounds and three magazines, were seized. To verify this claim of being a firearm licence holder, the man’s wife, who visited the station sometime later, was asked to return home for the document. After several to-and-fros, the licence was eventually provided to the authorities. Despite this, police realizing his state of mind
placed him in the lock-ups pending the outcome of their investigations. The businessman has denied that he discharged rounds from his firearm and since no one has given police a statement to support the allegation, it is unlikely that the businessman will face charges. He was however allowed to “thaw off” in the lock-ups, even as relatives and associates pleaded with the police for his release. He was only let go yesterday morning on station bail but according to the source, his weapon and ammunition remain lodged, pending further investigations.
Minister urges PTA’s to play a more active role Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, in an interview with this publication, expounded on the need for Parent/Teacher Associations (PTA) to play more active roles in schools. At the time, the Minister was commenting on the need for proper laboratory facilities and equipment in schools. He stated that in “This day and age, they should be available to all schools.” As such, the Minister stated that it is something which he will put forward to the Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan for the next budget as there is not much that can be done for the remainder of this year. Despite this, said Roopnaraine, “we have to make full use of the PTA’s.” The PTA’s, he said, must have a program which should be fully involved in things like
providing apparatus for laboratory use. “We shouldn’t think that everything that has to be done in schools has to be done by the government,” said Roopnaraine. “I think if we can combine both our efforts and the PTA’s we can ensure that the laboratories are not just empty rooms and desks but have materials for experiments.” But not all PTAs are enjoying good working relationships with their school administrations. The case at the Hosororo Primary school can shed some light on this scenario. According to an executive member of the school’s PTA, a senior official of the school has reportedly usurped the functions of the Parent/Teacher body. According to the executive member, the PTA had raised its own funds which they had earmarked for a special purpose. However the school official demanded the cash from the PTA treasurer, who happens to be a teacher of the
said institution, claiming that the funds were needed to pay for the cleaning of the school. “The official cannot demand the funds raised by the PTA for a purpose not approved by the PTA. That is not how it works,” the PTA Executive member told Kaieteur News. “We never raised funds to pay the cleaners, and even if the money was needed for that purpose, a proper request should have been made to the entire PTA Executive,” the member added. He said that the recent incident was not the first time that the school official has taken such actions, since it would appear that there is some backing by Regional officials. The PTA member had written to the Ministry of Education about the situation but said that he was not even afforded a response. He claimed that because of his objections to the way things are playing out between the PTA and the school, there are now moves afoot to vote him out of the PTA executive body.
Attorneys Nigel Hughes and Mark Waldron have completed a draft new legislation to relax marijuana convictions. This comes in the wake of the imprisonment of former national footballer turned coach, Vibert Butts by a city Magistrate for the possession of marijuana. Butts has since appealed the conviction and sentence and is expected to be released on $350,000, pending the outcome of the appeal. The legislation, which aims to revise stipulations of the denial of bail, the mandatory minimum serving time and the violation of the separation of power, is likely to be tabled in the National Assembly on December 17. The formation of this piece of bill kicked off following the conviction of Butts for possession of 46 grammes of cannabis two weeks ago. He was found guilty when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. An unrepresented Butts, had initially pleaded not guilty to the charge, but later changed his plea and begged for leniency, insisting that he only used marijuana for medicinal purposes. Nevertheless, he was sentenced to three years imprisonment, along with a one-year prison term for another offence. He was granted bail at $350,000 in the High Court on Friday by Chief Justice (Ag) Ian Chang after his lawyers Hughes and Waldron filed the appeal. Insisting that the bail was “ridiculously” high, Hughes stated that they have moved ahead to complete the legislation that will seek to protect persons like Butts from stringent unrealistic narcotics laws. Hughes argued that the current marijuana prison term is impractical and inhumane since the number of persons charged with the offence does not have access to seek justice because of their socioeconomic status. “We need to get rid of that awful legislation that penalises people for
Vibert Butts possession of small amounts of marijuana,” he said, stressing that too many good citizens are being thrown in prison for possession of marijuana and as such are criminalised. He indicated that many of the people tossed in prison for this offence are from the poorer class of society. He insisted that the severity of the penalty challenged him and his colleague Waldron and some 30 prisoners charged with the same offence to form this legislation. The law indicates that anyone found in possession of marijuana is liable to a fine of $10,000 or three times the monetary value of the drug and five years in jail. Benschop also raised his voice against the current regulation, stating that they are approaching the issue in an aggressive manner. “The law has to change,” he stated. He charged that Guyana was living in the dark ages while other countries were moving forward and not criminalising the possession of marijuana in smal l q u a n t i t y. “ I t ’s just w r o n g … w e can’t be incarcerating people for small amount of marijuana,” he insisted, adding, “Instead of dumping them in prison, they should be warned or placed on probation…especially in cases of first time offenders.” He argued that there were doctors, businessmen and politicians who smoke or have smoked marijuana and they were not criminalised for it so why should the poorer class of society suffer the injustice
Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes and be thrown into prison and stigmatised? “The problem is that when these persons come out…and most of them are young boys… they come out as hardcore criminals,” he said, adding that it places a burden on the government, the taxpayers and the prison system. Public Health Minister George Norton yesterday stated that in-depth consideration must be given to the bill along with widespread consultation. However, he stated that the legalisation of marijuana smoking would fly in the face of the anti-tobacco legislation, which will be tabled next year. He said the Bill, as it stands now, can’t be passed at the level of the minority, but only through widespread consent, backed by scientific evidence for and against it. However, Benschop indicated that the piece of legislation does not accept marijuana consumption as right but believes that the mandatory prison time should be revised. “We are not saying that marijuana should be legalised because if someone is caught with a trunk full of marijuana then they should face the consequences. We are more concerned with the human rights aspect of the situation,” he stated. He said once the Bill is passed, it was up to the legislators to decide what amount of marijuana would be permissible. He also stated that Parliament will decide if consultation would be needed. In the past, many international bodies have called on their respective governments to relax their narcotics laws. Meanwhile, Butts is one of many persons charged and sentenced to prison for possession of small amounts of marijuana. Many of the persons charged are youths. Butts is expected to be released from prison by 11am today. The bulk of money secured for his release came from his family and the Benschop Foundation.
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Hurry hurry come for curry New Governments come into town, their guns blazing, not literally like the Earp Brothers and Doc Holliday in the famous Gunfight at the OK Corral, but more like the American nuclear bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. They had already won the war but needed to demonstrate that they were large and in charge. There are no shades of grey in the aftermath of wars and elections– the winning side has to show conclusively and feel deep in their hardened hearts that the other side, meaning not the supporters of the beaten party but people of the same tribe or persuasion, have not just lost an election but also the right to equal treatment. When race is at the heart of electoral choices, there is an extra bitterness, almost an enjoyment, which closes eyes and ears, sometimes even shuts down brains and hearts, but certainly not mouths. This joy of victory tends to take on different forms, sometimes it is like
Thermogene and is rubbed in with gusto on the painful regions of the already suffering, and at other times it is like Vicks and rammed right up your nose. You get hit where it hurts most. If justice must not only be done but seen to be done, victory must not only be won and seen to be won but must be driven home with a spiteful vengeance. In a short while those people who want to curry favour with the new Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) Government of Dr. Keith Rowley will have to pay more for the pleasure and privilege. The reason is that curry, a mixture of spices which originated in the cuisine of the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia and consists of complex combinations of spices and herbs, including fresh or dried hot peppers, will now be subject to Value Added Tax or VAT. Up to the introduction of the tax in 1989, when people in Trinidad and Tobago thought about VAT it was always followed by the magic numbers “19” or, in
some cases, “69”. Vat 19 was for a long time the most popular rum in the country and Vat 69 was a scotchwhisky usually bought at Christmas. Now, regardless of its downsides, VAT is a primary revenue-raising device of many regional governments and while salt is VAT exempt, curry is now being considered in T&T as the appropriate substitute for rubbing into electoral wounds. Historically, wherever VAT has been imposed, it has expanded the cost of Government, increased income-tax rates, slowed economic growth and destroyed jobs. While it is based on the concept of “value added” it really minuses from the quality of life of the middle-class, especially those people who are caught in the tax net twice – through income tax and then through VAT. It is enough to make us go into the rum-shop and drown our sorrows in Vat while we can still afford it. Also on the list is “ghee”,
clarified butter, which originated in India and is generally used in the Caribbean in religious rituals. So it is not just currying favour, but any other attempt at buttering up the new Government will also be costly. Also on that list of “vattable” items are prunes and laxatives. While curry is sometimes considered a more than useful substitute for those products despite the heat transfer associated with its consumption, the fact is that there is no way out especially for senior citizens who, having received a small increase in their pensions, will have to shell out more in VAT. This seems to be the common theme of the Government – decrease the VAT from 15% to 12.5% but increase the number of items now subject to its imposition or give a little with the left hand and take away more than you put in with the right hand. There is a Calypso named “Curry Tabanca” by the prolific songwriter, Winford de Vignes (a.k.a. Joker) which was sung by The Mighty
Trini and won the Roadmarch in 1987. While the word “curry” is easily understood unless when applied to the grooming of horses, “tabanca” is a term which Wikipedia says is, “a Trinidadian, culture-bound syndrome that is a form of depression and results from the loss of a sexual partner to another.” With the increased price of curry one can expect a repeat of the 1987 phenomenon, “She pack up all her curry and she runaway/ Leaving me to worry myself sick each day/ I went and roam, from dusk to dawn/ Come back home to find de curry gone. / I dunno know why, she broke our vows. / And so I now, feeling ah how. / I have ah tabanca ha, curry tabanca/ I have ah tabanca ha, curry tabanca.” There will be resistance to the tax on curry, not just because of the inevitable increase in the cost of foods that use curry as an
ingredient, but more because of its political significance. In 1773, the heavily indebted British Government imposed the Tea Act on its American Colonists. The strong resistance led to the Boston Tea Party and the Revolutionary War two years later. While this is totally unlikely to happen, there is every likelihood that the tax will be interpreted as racist despite corned beef and smoked herring also being likely candidates for VAT. How do I react when my comfort zone is the food I grew up on? I can’t do a Derek Walcott and say (as he did in his 1981 play) “Beef, No Chicken”, or even remark, “Ghee Whiz!” Maybe I will just go into a Korma. *Tony Deyal was last seen asking whether putting maraschino cherries on the VAT list will mean that Government Ministers will no longer be invited to cocktail parties.
Citizens died while PPP/C Ministers utilised medical aid on “cosmetics”- Harmon By Abena Rockcliffe The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government was so “callous” about the welfare of ordinary Guyanese that it allowed ailing citizens, who required government funding for medical procedures, to die, while its Ministers were looking after “cosmetics” and other unnecessary procedures. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon noted this during a recent interview with Kaieteur News. Every year, a lump sum is voted in the National Budget under the Ministry of Public Health for medical assistance for the poor and vulnerable. Last year PPP/C Government Ministers benefitted the lion’s share of $144M sum that was set aside for that purpose. It was later revealed however that the money was used mostly for unnecessary cosmetic procedures. Harmon told Kaieteur News that the fund is not for “cosmetic things, they are for real people who have serious problems.” Harmon indicated however that the PPP apparently had no regard for those people. He said, “The travesty about what happened in that time is that when we came into office, there was a pile of files.
- Says APNU+AFC ministers may not utilise budgeted medical aid
Minister of State, Joseph Harmon Those files were filled with applications from people who had terminal illnesses that had to be dealt with. But they were ignored; there was definitely a level of callousness.” Harmon said that since the APNU+ AFC administration came into office “We started to whittle down that.” “We had to do an evaluation of where these people were and some actually died waiting to access this fund,” said the Minister. Harmon said that those over at the Ministry of Public Health are trying hard to make sure that assistance is now granted in a speedy manner while maintaining the application process. “Most of these people are
those with extremely serious illnesses and are in need of treatment that is not easily available in the public system,” said Harmon. Further, Harmon said that Ministers of the new government may not be taking a single cent of tax dollar to offset personal medical bills. He said, “As far as we in this government are concerned, we are looking at insurance, private insurance that the Ministers can actually pay for so that if something happens, there is insurance available to take care of their illness. We are looking at health insurance.” Harmon also indicated that the government will not be putting a cap on the health benefits available per person as was recommended by the Auditor General. The PPP/C Government last year expended $144M in medical aid to 505 persons, with seven government officials receiving more than a third—over $45M. The remaining amount was used to assist over 495 persons. It works out to an average of $198,000 being spent on
each of the 498 private individuals assisted by Government last year, while seven of its officials utilized an average of $6.4M each. Despite the glaring disparity between the levels of assistance provided to private individuals as against government officials, the Auditor General reported that relevant approvals for expenditure were presented for audit examination. The Audit Office has since recommended that the Ministry formulate a policy with respect to the amount of medical help that should be granted to individual patients. Among those exgovernment officials who benefitted from government’s medical assistance set aside for the poor and vulnerable was former Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai. Shortly before the May 11 General and Regional Elections, it was disclosed that Sukhai had $2.1M worth of work done to her teeth, a n e x p e n s e w h i c h was funded by the state using tax payers’ dollars. She had defended the expenditure as an entitlement.
Nine former Ministers had benefitted from the fund. The then Minister of Human Services Jennifer Webster used up $1.3M while the then Prime Minister Sam Hinds benefited from $28,240 and his wife Yvonne $788,880. It was found too that the former Attorney General Anil Nandlall was also a beneficiary of the Government’s medical assistance scheme. It was reported that he racked up some $4.9M in medical expenses in September, 2012 in the United States. Nandlall lists “medical support” as the diagnosis. He
Former Minister, Pauline Sukhai did claim to have repaid the money he received. The former Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture Ali Baksh also received medical assistance for a coronary artery bypass at a cost of $12.2M. This is in addition to $249,600 for his airfare.
President makes... (From page 13) morality in their life.” Rahir continued, “If he does not have a spiritual connection with his creator—which will keep him straight—which will cause him to strive to be the best person that he can be”. In a few months, Rahir said, they will be embarking on the Sophia Vocational Centre. He said that this is an endeavour to assist the community in eliminating poverty by training people and providing them with skills that will enable persons to “stand on their own feet”.and GIT Secretariat
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Kaieteur News
VACANCY Plant Shop Sales Clerk: Hardworking, literate, punctual workers, Work experience an asset. Contact: 648-1821 SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana Passport application. Graphics design, Advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Landscaping: Palms, largest varieties of plants, Used in every one of our unique landscapes- Call: 648-1821/ 219-0468 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building. visadocumentsgy@ y a h o o . c o m . Call: 2256496, 662-6045 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 2310655; 683-8734. Omar Landscaping: Palms, largest varieties of plants, Used in every one of our unique landscapes- Call: 648-1821/ 219-0468 Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezersCall:629-4946 or 225-4822 Professional Pressure washing & water tank cleaning services, for all your home & business exterior cleaning call: 696-5424 INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Floor sanding & Lacquering House plans, Estimate & painting, boat for Santa Mission Tours –Call: 6504362
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel:644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 FOR SALE/RENT American Pools table-Call: 277-0578
WANTED Wanted experienced taxi drivers and dispatchers@ Princess Hotel ProvidenceTel: 616-5419, 256-7075 Experienced pastry maker, curry & roti/puri cooks, counter servers, handy boys. Apply at Hack’s Halaal, 5 Commerce Street. Bartenders, waitress, cook, maintenance, please apply in person @ Aracari Resort 160 Plantation Versailles W.B.D Damage batteries in any quantity, best price offeredCall: 696-5728, 656-2783, 6225941, 648-9395, 223-1111 Experienced Driver @ Gem’s Taxi-Call: 665-5338; 231-3709, 667-9013 One lorry driver to sell water, experience in such field required- Call: 678-1234 Truck driver wanted to work in Georgetown- Tel: 218-1156 Delivery riders wanted contact: 223-5273/4.
TRINIDAD JOB O P P O RT U N I T Y: EXPERIENCED HOUSEKEEPER WITH VALID PASSPORT CALL: 669-6565; 695-2838
SALON -Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal, Mabelline. -Nail Technician Course Call: 647-1773/660-5257
Assistant Kitchen attendant, waitress –Contact Sheikor or Donald: 227-1131; 646-4138; 661-8548 Business Opportunity: School Cafeteria for lease in Diamond, must have experienced running a Cafeteria – Email: sevosawh@gmail.com Vacancies exist for cashiers and sales staff. Apply in person with written application at Nirva Supermarket - call: 227-5771
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Cashier 6am-3pm & 3pm12pm. Submit application to Shell Station Providence EBD, shellramsburg @gmail.com
Julieann’s Apartment Rentals: fully furnished apartments with aircondition & Wi-Fi -$9,000 daily - Call: 226-5336; 6926595; 616-4686
Excavator, Bulldozer & grader operator. Work site in Timehri (CJIA Project). Good Salary- Contact: 666-7211, 681-7267
Cooks to work in Trinidad, must be experienced in Indian and English dishes- Call Selwyn in Trinidad- 001-868680-2083
(2)Two general workers to work shift system- Call: 2181400, 668-0306
Roti/ Puri cook. Apply at Shanta’s 225 Camp & New Market streets Waitress to work at a bar (live in or out)- Call: 612-2522
Desk staff (male), ages 2545yrs- Tel: 225-0198
Security guard & a gardener: preferably from G/ town and E.C.D. Call Neville Osman: 624-1737 (8:00am-4:00pm).
Monday December 07, 2015
Body workman- Call: 6490659, 670-1637
Full & Part time & Seasonal, local & international work available, training provided $5,000 plus daily – Call: 6221957/ 233-6517, www.jobfairworldwide.com Porters Ripsaw, RT saw, and wood mizer operator @ Eccles Industrial Site E.B.D –Call Richard: 609-7675; 6741705; 233-2614
FOR RENT
2 Bedrooms apartment located @ Mon-Repos North E.C.D- price $60,000 – Contact: 692-9295 & 688-6005
Apartment for rent in Nandy Park- Call: 227-5194 House in Bel-Air Gardens; 4 bedrooms with all modern convenience. No agents! Call: 231-7839 working hours. House in Bel-Air Park: 3 bedrooms upstairs/ downstairs, all modern conveniences -$1,600US monthly. Call: 231-7839 working hours
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL:CARS&SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Property for sale, Grove $20M / Rent: $50,000 per month. Tel: 625-5461.
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YAHOO.COM/WWW. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494 Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807
TO LET Prime 2 flat business place to rent on Robb Street, Lacytown between Camp & Alexander Streets - Tel: 226-9377 Newly constructed apartment in a safe and healthy environment- Call: 698-6496, 622-6512 TOURS Suriname Old years into new- exciting fireworks, shopping, site-seeing & tours (Dec 30th- Jan 3rd). Call: 665-5171, 639-2663
PRADO: TOP CONDITION, SUNROOF, FULLY LOADED, 8 SEATER, FUEL, 2000 MODEL. CALL: 6845868 CRV EXCELLENT CONDITION, 1998CC, ALARM, DVD, MAGRIM, CLEAN ENGINE & BODYCALL: 684-5868 1 Hilux Surf, 2 Trucks (1 TM & 1TL) -Tel: 618-1967, 698-4321 Rottweiler and German Shepherd mix pups for sale –Call: 641-1771 and 654-0388
VEHICLE FOR SALE Toyota AT 212. Price $1.1M negotiable- Tel: 650-4736 Toyota Noah & Voxy, Fully loaded, never registered, ‘G’ Series -$1.7M. Call: 617-2891 One Honda CRV, immaculate condition –price $1,650,000- Call: 626-2884 Blow out sale! Cheapest: Super GL automatic and stick gear VVTI buses, Hilux-1RZ engine. Call: 616-7635 Nissan Titan 2004 model, GSS series, in immaculate condition - Call: 629-4392, 220-7958 Toyota Hilux extra cab with tray cover 2.5L full service history. Duty paid. Unregistered$6M negotiable- Tel:266-5282 1 Toyota Corolla Fielder PMM series in good condition. New tyres. $1.3MTel: 266-5282 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 TacomaCall:680-3154 Honda Accord 2003, Tan Leather, TV, CD, Radio, DVD, 36,000KM, like now – Call: 689-1194
AMERICAN BULLY DOGS, REMYLINE & GOTTILINECONTACT HARRY: 6100 0 6 8 / 2 2 0 - 7 9 3 3 , WHATSAPP: 667-4845 One 600amp automatic transfer switch sold as isCall:627-7835 Pools-table cloth, balls, pocket, coin-shute, rubber, cue-stick, coin, chalk, spots gully boot, white ball, poolstable locks –Tel: 669-9927 New and used parts for all types refrigerators, air conditioners, microwaves, stoves, washers etc.- call: 233-2008/ 613-8800
Smart Choice Auto: Premio, Allion, Bluebird, 212, IST, Fielder, Spacio- Call: 6523820/ 665-4529
50LBS BAGS, DOG FOOD W/SALE & RETAILCALL: 222-7891; 609-9202
Unregistered Dualis -$1.6M, glass roof, fog lights and TV –Call: 669-7298
AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call:680-3154
One property in Nandy Park and one complete dredge for sale- Call: 642-3808, 644-7207
Church and 2 storey building Lot 180 Charlotte Street Bourda-Call: 227-6817; 624-7341 CAR RENTAL
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. One 2011 Honda ATV Bike, only used for prospecting, air cool. One Model M Bush Truck with Winch Call: 6882597
2 storied transported concrete property- upstairs: 2 bedrooms apartment, downstairs: 2 bedroom apartment, block ‘8’ MonRepos, E.C.D -$19M neg. Call: 625-1514; 231-7255 Two properties for sale at West Coast and West Bank. Excellent condition- Call: 660-3235, 668-3985 Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities - Call: 662-9335; 612-3244
Used XBOX 360, PS Vita, PS3 I-pad & I-pods, XBOX one & games –Tel: 621-7497; 6038643; 649-3277 33.6 Acre Farm Land, located at Linden/ Soesdyke Highway also ideal for poultry farm –Call: 225-7794; 679-1151
LAND FOR SALE Providence Scheme 115ftX81ft located on a Cul de Sac close to Bai Shan Lin -$8.2M negotiable –Call: 6014163; 223-0719 1155 Acres of land located at East Bank Demerara. Price Negotiable- Call: 612-2060 Luxury gated community with pool, mall, swipe entry/ exit, underground irrigation. Contact: 609-0783 Residential lot @ Kuru Kururu near Primary School 100’X100’ –Call: 680-6136 PEN PAL American Indian Male is seeking female, age 32plus, no texting –call: 679-9646
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news...Letters... Where your views make the news
Elaboration on the public service pension structure DEAR EDITOR, Reference the; The Commission of Inquiry into the Public Service, I would like to add the following, as it relates to, Pensions in the Public Service, GPF, GDF and Joint Services. If the suggested age of retirement is 60 to 65 years, pension should be ¾ of the present salary (e.g. An Assistant Superintendent currently earns one hundred and twenty-five dollars per month (GY$125,000.00, therefore pension due to a retired ASP or Acting ASP should be $93, 750.00 per month) and increased based on life expectancy. At present in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) retirement is based on: The Completion of 33 1/3 years to get full pension plus retirement at age 55 years; the full pension is half of your present salary for the past three (3) years. I joined the GPF on 21st of March, 1942 and retired on 31st of March, 1979. I joined as a Constable with a pay scale of twentyeight dollars (GY$28.00) per month. I retired as Acting Superintendent of Police (ASP) with a Substantive rank of Chief Inspector. My Salary was five hundred and seventy-six dollars (GY$576.00) per month and my pension was Two hundred and eighty-eight dollars (GY$288.00) per month. .I never had an increase in pension, until President Hugh Desmond Hoyte (deceased) took office in 1985 and the subsequent change in government in 1992 when the PPP/C continued the 5% annual increase, while neglecting to make adjustments for inflation and cost of living adjustment. After many years former President Bharrat Jagdeo gave a meager increase and classified the dollar pensioners including Head Masters, high ranking policemen and all senior government ex employees and junior ranks in the police force with 15 years or less service on the same scale (this included barrack labourers, junior ranks in the GPF with 15 years or less service retired medically unfit were lumped in the same pension bracket. This ideologically imposed pension and benefits plan makes no
actuarial and economic sense. This failed socialist experiment in a capitalist economy has left pensioners in tatters. As a result of the above (8), even a Constable retiring today gets more pension than ranks and public servants who previously served in excess of 33 1/3 years. NIS is compulsory. When a male contributor all his life provided for the benefit of his wife and family dies, his wife gets no benefits from his contribution. In a situation where she is not a housewife and working and paying NIS, she is not entitled to benefit from her husband’s contribution. NIS response is, you cannot draw two pensions. I think it is unfair and unjust, particularly for a housewife without a job and loss of means upon death of a sole bread winner. Policemen and the Military should be considered separately! They are always on duty, e.g., he has completed his/her tour of duty and whilst going home encounters a crime is committed within view, he/ she has to take action. In another scenario he/she may be at home and a crime is committed or there is unrest, action has to be taken in line. In the absence of that special consideration, make allowance for them to be paid overtime. Soldiers are pensionable after twelve (12) years, Member of Parliament (MP) after four (4) years, and Policemen after 33 1/3 years. If the age is of retirement is increased, three (3) generations will meet you in the GPF, that is, if you join at eighteen (18) years, by the next eighteen years of service, the child born on the day you joined will meet you in the GPF and may be more qualified, to be followed by another generation. Regardless of how “bright” you may be, the GPF works by establishment, so everyone cannot be promoted. A system must be in place for those who cannot be promoted, to be compensated incrementally above their juniors who would be “green” in service. Pensions must be established with automatic indexing for annual increases due to
inflation and cost of living increases, such as the elevation of the national minimum wage. Pensions must not be stagnated or left to the political machinations of the day or the whim or fancy of an ideological ruler of the day. Pension and benefits must be calculated by strict formulas agreed to by and not
limited to collective bargaining agreements. Some plans increase pension payments to retirees each year to fully or partially match the rate of inflation. This is a highly valuable benefit because it helps your pensioners buying power keep up with rising prices over time.
EXAMPLES OF 3 MAIN FORMULAS A. Final average earnings This formula is based on your average earnings in the years leading up to retirement (for example, in the 5 years before retirement). Sample formula – 5% x your average salary in the past 5 years x your years as a plan member. Here’s what your pension would be if your average salary was $125,000 and you participated in the plan for 33 1/3 years:
this morass. We certainly can do better than this. I have lived all my life and served the length and breadth of this country, beyond the call of duty. I am now in my 92nd year, thanks to the blessings of Almighty God. I know we can compensate our pensioners better than we have. I am looking forward to see, advances in this direction. G.W.R Nestor GPF Service Regulation #4800 Medal of Long Service and Good Conduct Medal of War Service 1942 – 1945 Medal of Independence
ARE WESLEYAN CHRISTIANS TRUE CHRISTIANS?
B. Career average earnings This formula is based on your average earnings during the entire period you were a member of the plan. Sample formula – 5% x your average salary in your career x your years as a plan member. Here’s what your pension would be if your average salary was $80,000 and you participated in the plan for 12 years:
C. Flat benefit With this formula, your monthly pension benefit is equal to a fixed dollar amount for each year you are a member of the plan. Sample formula – $57,600 x your years as a plan member. Here’s what your pension would be if you participated in the plan for 30 years:
GECOM Commissioner...
From page 4 their course he is declared an enemy of the State, Transparency and Democracy although there has been no admission of wrong doing by GECOM. At the end of all of the grandstanding and charade it is the Justice System that must provide the avenues for Motions, Responses and Determinations as is constitutionally mandated. Concoction, Conflict and Hypocrisy cannot be condoned in the search for Justice and the Building of Democracy. Vincent Alexander GECOM Commissioner
benefits. I dare say the current pension is an indictment to those who have failed as guardians of a better life. The 50th anniversary of our Independence, as an emancipated and free country is fast approaching, yet we continue to pay a slaves wage to those who have built and carried this country on their backs. Many are dependent on children or remittances from abroad, and those who are not as fortunate, are living wretched lives even though they have made sterling contributions to this great land. We must move beyond
It is because of the current imbalance and political interference that we are stuck with the absence of credible evaluations of pensions and benefits. I recommend we move to progressive job evaluations and benefits for Pensioners of the Public Service GPF, and GDF in order to reverse the ideologically imposed disparity in salaries and Pensioners
DEAR EDITOR, In an effort to promote religious tolerance and bring to an end religious intolerance in my community, I would have detailed a missive which was carried in your November 20, 2015 newspaper edition bearing the caption, “This type of religious intolerance in Guyana is dangerous.” In that letter I would have detailed how the Wesleyan Church of Maria’s Pleasure, Wakenaam treated a 14 year old child all because she danced at the Meer Zorg Vishwa Jotir Mandir’s Diwali concert. For clarity, the church’s executive members judged her by saying that what she did was wrong and then penalized her by putting a 6 week ban on her from active participation within the said Wesleyan Church. Editor, the church’s action prompted me to read the Bible and in doing so I came across these words - JUDGE NOT AND YOU WILL NOT BE JUDGED FOR ALL MEN HAVE FALL SHORT OF THE GLORIES OF GOD. It therefore begs the question, is the doctrine or by-laws that guides the Wesleyan
Churches in Guyana contradicting the holy words of God? If God would have said that humans should not judge humans then how was it that Maria’s Pleasure Wesleyan Church permitted to judge that child and to add insult to injuries penalized her? Notwithstanding the above, I met with the head of the Wesleyan Church some time back at his Brickdam office but from his schedule time did not permit a lengthy discourse. I therefore am publicly requesting that he answers my simple question via this medium for the benefit of not only me but also for the benefit of the other arms of Christianity that do not agree with the Wesleyan’s actions, the Hindus and Muslims; In fact, for the benefit of the entire human race. Also kindly justify your answer where necessary. Editor, should my question not be answered then I am only left to conclude that the Wesleyan Christians are not true Christians for their practice goes against the word of God - the Holy Bible. Ganesh Mahipaul
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
Opposition complains as Venezuela voting extended
People wait to cast their vote at a polling station in Caracas, yesterday. (AFP Photo/Federico Parra) Caracas (AFP) Venezuelan authorities said they would keep voting stations open at least an hour longer than scheduled in yesterday’s key legislative election, sparking cries of foul play by the opposition. The governmentcontrolled National Electoral Council (CNE) said there were still people waiting in line to cast their ballots at the official closing time of 6:00 pm (2230 GMT). “For this reason, the CNE has decided to extend the
opening hours of polling stations until 7:00 pm or for as long as there are voters waiting in line,” the deputy head of the council Sandra Oblitas told reporters. The opposition, which is vying to win a majority in the state legislature after 16 years of control by the socialist leadership, denounced that move as illegal. A representative of the broad opposition coalition MUD, former CNE official Vicente Diaz, told a news conference that keeping all
the voting stations open was a “violation” of electoral law. The opposition has accused President Nicolas Maduro of rigging voting districts and intimidating and repressing its members. Numerous opposition figures are in jail. US and European authorities have condemned the jailing of opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez and called for a fair and open election. Surveys by Venezuelan pollsters such as
Datanalisis have shown the opposition is likely to win a majority in the legislative National Assembly for the first time since late socialist leader Hugo Chavez was first elected in 1999. But analysts say they may struggle to counter Maduro’s presidential powers. Venezuela is in an economic crisis due to plunging oil revenues, with families suffering shortages of basic foods and supplies.
Squabbling erupts in oil-rich Venezuela’s tense vote Caracas (AFP) Squabbling broke out as polls closed in Venezuela’s tense legislative elections, with the opposition accusing the government of foul play by keeping the ballots open longer than scheduled. Leaders have warned violence risks breaking out over the polls, in which the opposition is vying to win control of the legislature from the socialist government in the oil-rich, cash-poor nation for the first time in 16 years. Long queues stretched outside voting stations as voters fed up with soaring prices and food shortages cast their ballots to back the opposition, while others vowed to push on with the “revolution” of the left, in control since 1999. The governmentcontrolled National Electoral Council (CNE) said there were still people waiting in line to cast their ballots at the official closing time of 6:00 pm (2230 GMT). “For this reason the CNE has decided to extend the opening hours of polling stations until 7:00 pm or for as long as there are voters waiting in line,” the deputy head of the council Sandra Oblitas told reporters. An angry crowd outside one polling station in a pro-
Venezuelans protest during legislative elections in San Cristobal, Tachira state on December 6, 2015. (AFP Photo/George Castellanos) opposition district of central Caracas yelled for it to be closed at 6:00 pm since it was empty of voters. “For the will of the people to be respected, polling stations where there are no longer any voters present should be closed to prevent last-minute campaigning,” said a representative of the broad opposition coalition MUD, former CNE official Vicente Diaz.He told a news conference that keeping all
the voting stations open was a “violation” of electoral law. On Venezuela’s overwhelmingly progovernment television channels, supporters and officials of anti-US President Nicolas Maduro’s government appeared urging people to come out and vote. Opponents have accused Maduro of rigging voting districts and intimidating them. Numerous opposition figures are in jail.
Maduro regularly alleges US-backed businesses are waging an “economic war” against Venezuela. Some analysts say Venezuela risks political deadlock and leaders have warned of a repeat of antigovernment riots that left 43 people dead last year. “The big problems are the lack of security and the high cost of living,” said William Carrasco, 55. “Things could get violent.”
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Assad says British bombing in Syria will fail, ridicules PM Cameron Reuters - British air strikes on Islamic State will fail to defeat the militant group, Syrian President Bashar alAssad said in an interview with the Sunday Times newspaper, mocking Prime Minister David Cameron’s strategy in the region. British lawmakers approved the bombing of Islamic State targets in Syria on Wednesday. Hours after that approval, the Royal Air Force struck the oilfields that Cameron’s government says are being used to fund attacks on the West. Speaking in an interview conducted before the vote in parliament, the result of which had been widely anticipated, Assad said Cameron’s strategy would make the situation worse, not better. “They are going to fail a g a i n , ” h e s a i d . “ Yo u cannot cut out part of the cancer. You have to extract it. This kind of operation is like cutting out part of the cancer. That will make it spread in the body faster.” Police in London said they were treating a stabbing on Saturday as a terrorist incident after a man wielding a knife slashed another, screaming according to British media “this is for Syria”. Assad ridiculed Cameron’s assertion that there are as many as 70,000 We s t e r n - b a c k e d opposition fighters in Syria who would open a political solution to the civil war and could retake territory from jihadists weakened by the air strikes. “This is a new episode in
Bashar al-Assad a long series of David Cameron’s classical farce ... where are they? Where are the 70,000 moderates he is talking about? There is no 70,000. There is no 7,000.” Cameron opposes A s s a d ’s g o v e r n m e n t i n Syria, where the more than four-year civil war has forced millions of refugees to flee the country. In 2013 Cameron failed to win parliamentary approval for a i r s t r i k e s o n A s s a d ’s forces. Britain is part of an U.S.led coalition conducting air strikes against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, where militants have captured large areas and proclaimed a Caliphate to rule over all Muslims. Cameron, setting out his strategy last week, said air strikes alone would not be enough, and that Britain was pursuing a multifaceted approach designed to defeat Islamic State and deliver a political and humanitarian solution to the civil war in Syria.
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Kaieteur News
Monday December 07, 2015
Former President Jimmy Carter says cancer gone from brain Reuters - Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter delivered an unexpected message yesterday to the several hundred people gathered at a Baptist church in Georgia for his Bible lesson - his latest brain scan showed no sign of cancer. Carter, 91, started treatment in August for melanoma that had spread from his liver to his brain. A previous MRI test showed the four spots of cancer that had developed on his brain were responding to treatment, he said. “When I went this week, they didn’t find any cancer at all, so I have good news,” Carter told the crowd at Maranatha Baptist Church in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, according to a video from NBC News. The former Democratic president, known for his unassuming style, offered a quick smile as people who had come for the Sunday School class he teaches gasped and clapped. In a brief written statement afterward, Carter confirmed his most recent brain scan “did not reveal any signs of the original cancer spots nor any new ones.” He said he would continue to receive regular doses of pembrolizumab, a new treatment that is part of a promising class of drugs that harness the body’s immune
Jimmy Carter system to fight cancer. The immunotherapy is manufactured by Merck & Co under the brand name Keytruda. While about 30 percent of patients treated with the drug experience significant shrinkage of their cancer, only approximately 5 percent experience complete remission, said Dr. Marc Ernstoff, director of the melanoma program at the Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Institute in Ohio. On average, the immunotherapy treatment extends a recipient’s life expectancy by a year and a half. “But people that are in complete remission tend to live significantly longer,” said Ernstoff, who is not involved
in Carter’s care. Carter, who said after his diagnosis last summer that his fate was “in the hands of God,” has defied expectations before. Critics derided his 19771981 presidency as a failure, although he played a key role in negotiation of the 1978 Camp David peace accord between Israel and Egypt. He lost his 1980 re-election bid to Republican Ronald Reagan. But the former peanut farmer built one of the most successful post-White House legacies, winning a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and remaining active into his ’90s in causes such as fighting disease in Africa and building homes for the poor. He said in August that his cancer treatment, which has included radiation, would require him to cut back dramatically on his public schedule. But Carter has continued to teach Sunday School classes and participated in at least one Habitat for Humanity home-building event this autumn. In October, he announced he was also working with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s heirs to help mediate their dispute over whether to sell their father’s 1964 Nobel Peace Prize medal and the Bible he carried during the civil rights movement.
Modi mocked and Jayalalithaa heckled after floods Reuters - One of India’s most powerful politicians, a former movie star called “Amma” or “Mother” by her followers, heckled and abused for going missing in action after floods swept the capital of Tamil Nadu, which she rules. It’s a salutary lesson for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who at first drew nods of approval when he rushed to Chennai last week, promising to stand by its people in their hour of need. Yet, within hours, Modi became the object of mockery on social media after his press office released a doctored photo of him inspecting flood damage. For both him and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa Jayaram, the image of strong leadership created by their publicity machines was undermined. Until the floods that ravaged the city of 6 million, the lofty remoteness of Jayalalithaa added to the aura around a leader with an almost hysterical following. Devotees of the 1960s screen idol
Narendra Modi have immolated themselves in her defence in the past. Now, she faces a backlash from residents fed up with the sight of her image on billboards, aid packets and her own Jaya Plus TV channel. She has been since in public only twice during the crisis - once with Modi. Angry youths heckled a state minister and officials in Jayalalithaa’s north Chennai
constituency, where people were sitting on the roadside amid sludge and mountains of garbage, their shanties swept away by the worst rains in a century. “Forget about Amma coming here, there was no sign of the party cadres,” said one of them, called Dorairaj. About 280 people have died across Tamil Nadu since torrential rains on December 1 submerged tracts of Chennai under up to eight feet (2.5 metres) of water, trapping people on rooftops with no communication. There was further revulsion after a party legislator put up a poster of Jayalalithaa lifting a baby above the floodwaters, in a scene from a blockbuster movie. “Adding salt to the wounds,” said one Twitter post. Avadi Kumar, a spokesman of her ruling AIADMK party, said there was anger among the people but the administration was doing all it could to bring relief: “It is impossible to reach all areas immediately or be present everywhere at all times.”
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
C’bean Natural Resources Institute calls for strong commitments to tackling climate change PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CANARI) — The Caribbean Natural Resources Institute (CANARI) is calling on the global community to support the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) position advocating for a cap on the world’s temperature rise at 1.5 degrees Centigrade as part of their deliberations during the United Nations Climate Change Conference, taking place in Paris from November 30 - December 11, 2015. CANARI has been working with rural communities across the Caribbean islands for the past ten years and hearing firsthand accounts of how climate change is already affecting lives and livelihoods of the most vulnerable. A strong and legally binding international agreement is essential to support vulnerable Caribbean people to take action to adapt to climate change. “Climate change is here… it is real” was the message from fisherfolk leaders as they shared their experiences of how sea level rise and storm surge are damaging their boats and coastal fishing facilities in a participatory video they prepared with CANARI. Small scale fisherfolk are seeing changes in the fish that they catch. For the past couple of years they have also been plagued by a massive influx of sargassum seaweed choking beaches and bays and making it impossible to fish sometimes. Their already vulnerable livelihoods are at risk. Even inland rural communities are feeling the effects of climate change as storms
become more intense causing landslides, flooding, and damage to their crops, homes and key infrastructure. A village in north Trinidad told their story of the problems they were facing and what they need to build their resilience in a photostory they developed with CANARI called “Caura’s Water Woes”. CANARI has also started to work with rural micro-entrepreneurs to assess how climate change will impact on their business along the value chain. Entrepreneurs then plan how they will take action to ‘climate proof’ their businesses. CANARI documented the story of Toute Bagai, where rural women entrepreneurs built a greenhouse to help ensure the supply of plant materials they use as harvesting from the forest becomes more uncertain with climate change. CANARI worked with local communities, civil society and government stakeholders in Dominica and Tobago to capture their knowledge about the vulnerabilities of their islands to climate change using participatory three-dimensional modelling (P3DM). The models that were built captured a wealth of information on what were the key areas for adaptation action on the ground. Caribbean communities urgently need support so that they can take the on the ground actions needed to build their resilience to climate change. They are hoping that Paris is more than a global talk shop and results in adequate finance to address climate change that is easily accessible to Caribbean SIDS. (Caribbean News)
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Mexicans investing millions into Jamaica ST JAMES, Jamaica (JIS) – Tourism interests from Mexico have been eyeing Jamaica as a great place to do business, investing millions of dollars into the economy and employing scores of Jamaicans. In 2015 alone, a number of investments have either been completed or are currently being negotiated. Some of the investments include: the purchase of the Sangster International Airport by the Mexican Pacific Group Gap; the US$200million investment in the Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Resort by the Chapur family of the Mexico based Palace Resorts fame, and the purchase of Dolphin Cove by the Mexican company, Dolphin Discovery. This also falls in line with the recent news that Karisma Hotels and Resorts will be investing more than US$900 million in a hotel project in St Ann that will, over a decade, add 4,000 new rooms to Jamaica’s tourism sector and provide at least 8,000 direct jobs.
Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Business Development at Karisma Hotel and Resorts, Ruben Becerra, said his c o m p a n y ’s d e c i s i o n t o increase its investment in the island, was driven by the fact that Jamaica is one of the three fastestgrowing t o u rism destinations in the Caribbean. “The three fastestgrowing destinations in the Caribbean are Cancun, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. People view these destinations as very safe…. Jamaica, already enjoys a good reputation…and the demand is there,” Becerra said. The ‘Mexican invasion’, as some people have dubbed it, follows the over 15 years of virtual dominance by the
Spanish hoteliers, who presently control the stopover market in Jamaica in terms of room occupancy. The Spanish properties include: RIU, with three properties (one each in Negril, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios); Bahia Principe in Discovery Bay, St Ann; Iberostar in Rosehall, St James; and Grand Palladium in Hanover. For her part, Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, described Mexico as a great trading partner and a reliable friend of Jamaica. She noted that the direct foreign investment coming in from that country was not a coincidence, adding that Jamaica is now being viewed as a preferred destination and “the most beautiful island in the Caribbean.”
The Quest for Knowledge refreshes the mind, recreates the spirit, and motivates the body. It creates enthusiasm and desire to live an exciting and full day in spite of the routine.
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Kaieteur News
Monday December 07, 2015
Cabinet to get Sex Bill, at last The Gleaner - The longpromised sexual-harassment legislation should be before the Cabinet today and could be tabled in Parliament ahead of the Christmas break. “I am hoping to have it tabled by the end of the calendar year. If not, early in the new year,” de facto Information Minister Sandrea Falconer told The Sunday Gleaner late last week. According to Falconer, the Mark Golding-chaired legislative committee, a subcommittee of the Cabinet, gave clearance for the legislation last Wednesday after a final review. Falconer, who also has responsibility for gender affairs, said she welcomes the draft legislation for which Cabinet issued instructions to the chief parliamentary counsel last year. She said the Portia
Sandrea Falconer Simpson Miller administration inherited a draft sexual-harassment policy from the previous administration and decided to move it from policy to legislation. Falconer has repeatedly argued about the need for the
law, as she charged that it was unfortunate that many victims of sexual harassment suffered in silence. She said too many individuals felt that complaints about sexual harassment were a waste of time, while others chose not to make a report out of fear. Despite protection from the Whistleblower Legislation (2009) individuals are still fearful of reporting unwanted sexual overtures, and Falconer is hoping that both men and women will use the law, when it is passed, to help themselves. A Bureau of Women’s Affairs 2008 survey found that most persons who reported sexual harassment identified their workplace environment as where it took place. Studies also showed that 71 per cent of the victims were women, while 29 per cent were men.
Govt. working to diversify tourism sector
ST JAMES, Jamaica (JIS) – Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller says the government will be working with a number of publicprivate partners for the long term expansion, development and diversification of the tourism industry. To this end, Simpson Miller said the Tourism Enhancement Fund, (TEF) has already made major investments in the development of attractions and other tourism-related facilities. Addressing the 14th annual Sandals Resorts International Star Awards at Sandals Whitehouse Resort in Westmoreland on Saturday, Simpson Miller said under this new thrust to improve the tourism product, the capital city of Kingston will receive major focus.”Kingston is being
Portia Simpson Miller repositioned as a creative city, offering great insights into our unique Jamaican culture. Jamaica’s Blue and John Crown Mountain National Park was this year named a world heritage site,” she said. She added that attention will also be paid to the
development of other sites across the island-especially in St Ann, Falmouth and Port Royal. “We are also developing other outstanding heritage sites. These include Seville (St Ann) where evidence of the British, Spanish and the Taino civilizations are preserved… Falmouth-the most intact example of a Georgian town in the Caribbean and Port Royal with its sunken city and the memory of Pirates and the Caribbean rum and sugar trade,” Simpson Miller said. The prime minister further noted that the parish of Westmoreland where Sandals Whitehouse Resort in located, has its fair share of heritage sites and is urging the management of the resort to immediately move to include cultural tourism in its business mix.
Correctional Officers to hold further wage talks with Govt. today The Gleaner - Correctional officers are to hold further talks with the Finance Ministry today aimed at concluding their protracted wage negotiations. Having not heard back from the Ministry following discussions last week, on Friday the unions representing correctional officers were planning to hold internal talks to decide on their next course of action to press the government to complete their wage negotiations for the new contract period. According to Deputy Financial Secretary Wayne Jones, during a meeting on November 24, the finance ministry indicated to the unions that it would set a date for the talks to resume depending on the schedule of Finance Minister, Dr. Peter Phillips.
Jones says the Finance Minister did not conclude his internal consultations in time to allow him to give a response to the unions. However, Jones says the unions have since been invited by the Finance Minister to a meeting on Monday morning where the negotiations will continue. The chairman of the Jamaica Federation of Corrections, Arlington Turner, says negotiations began in July and the unions are upset over the protracted time it’s taking to reach an agreement. He says the unions will not relent in their demand for the government to pay on-call, location and overtime allowances as part of their wage deal.
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Persad-Bissessar takes landslide victory in UNC elections to retain leadership PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – Former Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar firmly held off her challenges to remain the political leader of the main opposition United National Congress (UNC) Saturday. Preliminary results show the Opposition Leader maintained overwhelming support of members, despite leading the party into defeat in the September general elections. Up to 1 a.m. yesterday, she had secured 10,147 votes compared to the 909 garnered by Dr Roodal Moonilal and Vasant Bharath’s 729. Official results are expected to be released by the party today. However, Moonilal has already indicated he will be seeking legal advice, alleging several irregularities in the election process Saturday.
Kamla PersadBissessar He told journalists at his Oropouche East constituency office that his attorneys were reviewing a number of issues, including the rejection of more than 2,000 supporters to cast their votes. (Caribbean360)
Monday December 07, 2015
High profile corruption trial to open in Turks and Caicos PROVIDENCIALES, TCI — The trial of former premier Michael Misick and nine codefendants on multiple charges of fraud, corruption and money laundering will begin tomorrow at the Supreme Court in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), and is expected to last six months. It is understood that procedural issues will be dealt with by the court until December 18 and the trial will then resume on January 18, 2016. The trial results from a lengthy investigation into alleged systemic corruption in the TCI during the 20032009 Misick administration. A 2009 Commission of Inquiry report also resulted in the suspension of internal selfgovernment in the TCI and the imposition of direct rule from Britain for three years until
2012. Almost the entire elected cabinet led by Misick has been indicted, including the former premier, ministers, their relatives and attorneys. Misick later fled the British territory but was extradited from Brazil, arriving back in the TCI last year on a US government plane. He is currently free in the islands on a ten million dollar bond. The defendants are: former premier Michael Misick; former cabinet ministers McAllister Hanchell, Jeffrey Hall, Lillian Boyce and Floyd Hall; Lisa Hall (wife of Floyd Hall); local attorneys Melbourne Wilson and Chalmers Misick (brother of Michael Misick); Quinton Hall (brother of Floyd Hall); and Earlson Robinson (brother of Lillian Boyce). The special investigation and prosecution team (SIPT) set up by Britain in the wake of the Commission of Enquiry report has already secured guilty pleas and convictions against at least one major property developer, with other developers reportedly receiving special treatment and confidential settlements that the public has still not been informed about. A corresponding civil recovery unit has unraveled
tens of millions of dollars of corrupt transaction. However, public interest in the trial has waned as a result of delays that were said to be part of a calculated strategy by Misick and others to secure a more sympathetic public environment when the charges are finally tried in court. In August, the current premier, Dr Rufus Ewing, and elected cabinet ministers denied a request for additional funding for increased security costs for the trial, prompting the territory’s governor to step in and direct the chief financial officer (CFO) to make arrangements for the police commissioner to receive the additional funds requested. Governor Peter Beckingham said he was satisfied that the additional funds were necessary to provide security in the TCI and went on to outline the effects on the territory and its economy should an act of terrorism occur linked to the corruption trial. “Were there to be any criminal activity linked to the trial, the impact on overseas tourism, especially from North America, would be catastrophic for the long term economy of Turks and
Michael Misick Caicos, the welfare of its citizens, and the confidence of the business community,” he said. “It would be a cruel blow for TCI if its recent successes were blemished and damaged in the long term by criminal acts of violence around the time of the forthcoming trial,” Beckingham noted. According to local residents at the time, the governor’s comments about violent acts of terrorism were new and alarming; leading to speculation that the police or prosecutors may have some intelligence that violence is intended during the trials. (Caribbean News)
Benefits of the role of Commonwealth Secretary General
Newly elected Commonwealth Secretary General, Baroness Patricia Scotland (centre) is flanked by outgoing Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma (left), and Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. (Photo courtesy Commonwealth Secretariat) Daily Observer - The UK Telegraph has revealed the benefits of the role of Commonwealth Secretary General. Dominican born Baroness Patricia Scotland takes up the post in April next year. According to the paper will receive a salary of nearly £160,000, as well as a four storey mansion in Mayfair, for what is considered one of the world’s top diplomatic jobs. Baroness Patricia Scotland, who was the UK Attorney General under Gordon Brown, is the first British citizen to be elected secretary
general of the Commonwealth in its 66-year history. The 60-year-old is also the first woman to hold the role. Baroness Scotland defeated the perceived frontrunner, Sir Ronald Sanders – Antigua and Barbuda’s nominee, who was previously Antigua and Barbuda’s High Commissioner to the UK. British Prime Minister says Baroness Scotland is the right person to promote “human rights, democracy and the rule of law”.
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Beckham’s Miami step closer as GSA/Digicel Farfan and Mendes Junior Christmas team tournament MLS owners support expansion Team Minions Crowned
David Beckham talks to reporters at Miami Dade College in downtown Miami, March 24, 2014. (Reuters/Zachary Fagenson) (Reuters) Major League Soccer (MLS) owners gave support for former England captain David Beckham’s proposed Miami franchise on Saturday, a day after the team’s owners said they had secured a site for a stadium. The Miami Beckham United bid said on Friday they had found land to build their proposed stadium in the Overtown neighborhood, close to transport links. The MLS Board of Governors, who met on
Saturday, gave tacit approval to the Miami team joining the league with it planning to expand to 24 teams by 2020. “We are very supportive of Miami Beckham United’s plans to build a soccer stadium in the City of Miami’s Overtown neighborhood,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said in a statement on Saturday. “Their vision for a world-class venue within the urban core that is accessible by mass transportation is impressive, and we believe it will be an important part of the continued revitalization of the area. “We look forward to working with David and his partners to finalize plans to bring Major League Soccer to Miami.” Atlanta, Los Angeles and Minnesota are joining the league in the next three years. Miami were “one step closer” of becoming the 24th team, MLS said. MLS, however, opened a further avenue for Beckham’s consortium if they are unable to meet the 2020 expansion plans with a desire to further expand the league to 28 teams. “There is no shortage of demand for MLS expansion teams and we believe the opportunity exists to grow beyond our current plans,” Garber said. “We will evaluate how to grow the league to 28 teams and establish a process and timeline for future expansion.” Possible markets for further teams include St. Louis, San Antonio, Detroit, San Diego and Sacramento, who already have a stadium plan and investors in place.
Crawford and Griffin edge Clippers past Magic
Reuters (The Sports Xchange) - Guard Jamal Crawford scored 32 points and forward Blake Griffin had 28 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists, guiding the Los Angeles Clippers past the Orlando Magic 103-101 on Saturday night at the Staples Center. Forward Wesley Johnson came off the bench to score 21 points and grab seven rebounds and center DeAndre Jordan produced 15 points and 14 rebounds for the Clippers (11-9), who snapped the Magic’s fivegame winning streak. Those four produced all but seven of the Clippers’ points. Guard Victor Oladipo scored 24 points and guard Elfrid Payton added 21 points and eight assists for the Magic (11-9). The Clippers were without point guard Chris Paul, who missed his second straight game with an inflamed rib cartilage, and shooting guard J.J. Redick, out with a right ankle sprain suffered in Wednesday’s loss to the Indiana Pacers. In their absence, Crawford and Johnson provided a shooting exhibition behind the 3-point stripe, combining to hit 12 of 21 shots. The Magic managed six 3-pointers as a team.
Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) passes against the Orlando Magic. (Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports)
Olidipo’s jumper gave Orlando an 89-77 cushion with 9:16 left in the game, but Los Angeles came back. Crawford’s 3-pointer allowed the Clippers to take a 97-96 lead with 3:02 left. They never trailed again. Orlando forward Jason Smith’s putback with 50.05 seconds remaining cut the deficit to one again. However, forward Tobias Harris, who finished with 10 points and 10 rebounds, missed a contested off-balance jumper with 12.9 seconds left. Crawford converted one of two foul shots with 10 seconds remaining for a 102100 lead. Guard Austin Rivers hit one of two free throws to
make it 103-100. Payton hit the first of two free throws and intentionally missed the second to give Orlando a chance, but the Clippers gained possession when the ball bounced out of bounds. Crawford sparked a 144 run by scoring seven points midway through the second quarter, including a four-point play with 5:16 left, for a 44-35 advantage. Orlando cut the gap to one before the Clippers took a 53-50 lead at the break. Crawford scored 10 points in the quarter, hitting 3 of 4 3pointers. Overall, Los Angeles shot 45.1 percent from the field compared with 44.4 percent for the Magic.
2015 Champions
Team Minions were crowned champions of the Farfan and Mendes Junior Christmas Squash Team Tournament on Sunday when they narrowly edged team Rising Stars at the Georgetown Club. Makeda Harding, Lucas Jonas, Daniel Islam, Aliyah Persaud and Mikhail Persaud were the victors for the champions as they edged team Rising Stars 5-4 on aggregate. With team Rising Stars relegated to second, Team Avengers had to settle for third place. In an important match for Team Minions under-15 player Makeda Harding pulled off her first victory over under-17 player Rebecca Low in a solid 3-1 performance. Harding’s clean sweep of matches earned her the Most Outstanding Girl Award, while Shomari Wiltshire copped the male prize with a 3-0 victory over Alexander Cheeks. Nyron Joseph ensured he finished his Junior Squash Career on a high note with a 3-1 victory over Ben Mekdeci, who threatened to pull off an upset when he won the second set, and took the third one to deuce, before conceding that set, and the following two. Joseph completed a fine Junior career this year with both the National Junior and National Senior titles, the first time a male player has done so since Roger Arjoon, and the first time for any player since Nicolette Fernandes, as noted by senior squash pundits. Aliyah Persaud, awarded the prize for the Most Improved Girl, completed a sweep of her opponents with a 2-0 win over Mohryan Baksh, while Most Improved Boy Daniel Islam completed a win over his twin Anthony in an emphatic 3-0 fashion, although both players fought gamely throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, in action from Friday, t h e r e w a s m o r e success for team Minions, and team Tornadoes. Lucas Jonas of Team Minions pulled off an impressive victory over Team Avengers’ Gianni Carpenter as he recovered from being 2-0 down to win 3-2, sealing victory with a 13/11 finish in the last game. Makeda Harding showed her improving prowess by defeating her male counterpart Jael Gaskin 3-1 to round out another successful night for team Minions. Shomari Wiltshire kept the hopes of team Avengers alive with a determined performance to defeat Daniel
Islam. Islam raced to a two game lead, before narrowly losing the third 11/8, after which Wiltshire sealed the match emphatically with 11/ 5, 11/4 sweeps of the last two games. Alexander Cheeks recovered from a first match loss to beat Matthew Phang 3-1 capping off an improved night of performances for team Tornadoes, who also benefited from victories by Samuel Ince-Carvahal, Michael Ramroop and Jason Gomes. Taylor Fernandes fought gamely to win a game 11/8, but in the end could not pull off an upset win over her more robust male counterpart Alec Melville as he powered to a 3-1 win for team Bungatuffies. The event marked the end of another successful year for local squash and the Guyana Squash Association, in collaboration with its corporate sponsor Digicel. Results from Friday: · Lucas Jonas beat Gianni Carpenter 3-2 (8/11, 2/11, 13/ 11, 11/9, 13/11) · Isabella Ramjohn beat Noah Rahaman 2-0 (11/3, 18/ 16) · Kamir Khan beat Haley Carpenter 2-1 (8/11, 11/5, 11/ 7) · Alec Melville beat Taylor Fernandes 3-1 (11/2, 11/5, 8/11, 11/7) · Alexander Cheeks beat Matthew Phang 3-1 (9/11, 11/ 8, 11/4, 12/10) · Michael Ramroop beat Maya Collins 3-1 (11/9, 8/11, 12/10, 11/9) · Shiloh Asregado beat Christiana Fernandes 2-0 (11/ 1, 11/3) · Georgiana Fernandes beat Liam Carpenter 2-1 (11/8, 7/11, 11/7) · Jason Gomes beat James Mekdeci 2-0 (16/14, 11/8) · Samuel Ince-Carvahal beat Ethan Jonas 3-0 (11/5, 11/ 5, 11/3) · Kirsten Gomes beat Abosaide Cadogan 3-0 (11/8, 11/4, 11/4) · Aliyah Persaud beat Nechemiyah Levans 2-0 (11/8,
11/8) · Demetrius DeAbreu beat Madison Fernandes 3-0 (11/4, 11/8, 11/8) · Shomari Wiltshire beat Daniel Islam 3-2 (10/12, 11/13, 11/9, 11/5, 11/4) · Makeda Harding beat Jael Gaskin 3-1 (11/2, 11/4,9/11, 11/ 7) Complete Final Day Results · Nyron Joseph beat Ben Mekdeci 3-1 (11/8, 8/11, 12/10, 11/4) · Daniel Islam beat Anthony Islam 3-0 (11/2, 12/10, 11/3) · Makeda Harding beat Rebecca Low 3-1 (7/11, 17/15, 11/5, 11/6) · Lucas Jonas beat Dominic Collins 3-0 (11/5, 11/5, 11/4) · Aliyah Persaud beat Mohryan Baksh 2-0 (11/2, 11/ 7) · Michael Alphonso beat Demetrius DeAbreu 3-2 (11/7, 11/1, 3/11, 9/11, 11/8) · Nathan Rahaman beat Haley Carpenter 2-1 (8/11, 11/ 2, 11/7) · Mikhail Persaud beat Mashal Allicock 2-1 (11/3, 13/ 15, 11/9) · Louis DaSilva beat Noah Rahaman 2-0 (11/7, 11/1) · Madison Fernandes beat Abosaide Cadogan 3-2 (3/11, 10/12, 11/6, 11/8, 11/9) · Shomari Wiltshire beat Alexander Cheeks 3-0 (11/8, 11/ 9, 11/8) · Michael Ramroop beat Jael Gaskin 3-2 (11/6, 11/6, 6/ 11, 5/11, 12/10) · Kamir Khan beat Liam Carpenter 2-0 (11/6, 11/3) · Samuel Ince-Carvalhal beat Gianni Carpenter 3-0 (11/ 5, 11/7, 11/4) · Christiana Fernandes beat Isabella Ramjohn 2-0 (11/4, 11/ 9) · Chad DeAbreu beat Teija Edwards 2-1 (11/4, 7/11, 11/8) · Larissa Wiltshire beat Taylor Fernandes 3-0 (11/8, 11/ 8, 11/7) Most Improved Girl: Aliyah Persaud Most Improved Boy: Daniel Islam Most Outstanding Girl: Makeda Harding Most Outstanding Boy: Shomari Wiltshire
India opener Vijay fined for showing dissent NEW DELHI (Reuters) India opener Murali Vijay has been fined 30 percent of his match fee for showing dissent after being given out in the ongoing fourth and final test against South Africa, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Sunday. Vijay was given out caught behind off Morne Morkel in India’s second innings on Saturday and the surprised opener pointed at his arm guard before walking off shaking his head. “Vijay was fined 30 per cent of his match fee by (match referee) Jeff Crowe,” ICC said in a statement.
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Curry scores 44 as Warriors improve to 21-0 Reuters (The Sports Xchange) - Guard Stephen Curry scored 44 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter, as the Golden State Warriors defeated the Toronto Raptors 112109 on Saturday for their 21st successive victory this season. Guard Kyle Lowry led the Raptors (12-9) with 41 points and seven assists. “It’s really been good — 21 different challenges and we’ve been able to separate each individually and figure out different ways to win,” Curry said. “I think everybody’s staying in the moment. That’s the biggest thing for us, every night trying to lock in and focus and bring the effort. “We might not play our best game, but we find a way to win.” The Raptors, who trailed by as many as 13 points in the first quarter and by 10 points at halftime, took the lead at 85-84 in the fourth quarter. Toronto led 98-95 when forward Luis Scola made two free throws with 4:13 to play in the fourth, but Curry tied it with a three-pointer. Curry’s three-pointer with 2:33 to play put the Warriors ahead 102-100. After the Raptors tied it, forward Draymond Green made two free throws for a 104-102 Golden State lead with
1:25 to play. Guard DeMar DeRozan made one of two free throws to cut the lead to one then Curry made two foul shots before Lowry made a driving layup with 44.2 seconds left, but missed a free throw and the Warriors led by one. Curry made two free throws with 18.2 seconds left for a 108-105 Warriors lead. Lowry cut the lead to one with a basket before guard Klay Thompson made two free throws with seven seconds to play. The lead was down to one when Scola made two free throws with 6.2 seconds left to finish with 10 points. Curry then made both his free throws and Toronto turned over the ball with 3.3 seconds to play. Thompson added 26 points for the Warriors, while Green had 16 points and nine rebounds. DeRozan added 16 points for the Raptors, while center Lucas Nogueira added 14 points. “They are 21-0 for a reason,” Raptors coach Dwane Casey said. “Kyle had a good offensive (game). “But again those moments of truth, where a rebound, a box out, loose ball ... layups, free throws, whatever it is, you have to make those plays in those moments to beat a great team.”
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) dribbles past Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) and Warriors center Festus Ezeli (31) in the second quarter at Air Canada Centre. (Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports)
Berbice gyms receive gears from... From page 37 that all he wants is to assist boxers out of the Ancient County to realize their dreams by providing much needed gear and uniform. He also plans to assist them financially whenever the need arises. He is also in contact with former amateur and professional champion Jeff Roberts who along with former boxer Monty Bovell have recently restarted a gym in New Amsterdam to see what immediate assistance he can give. Another set of gears would be on its way soon. Sulaiman, who migrated to the USA in 1972, said that he fought about four fights, three in the Ancient County and one at the National Park, Georgetown. He cannot
remember the names of his opponents. In the USA Suliaman immediate love was volleyball, but after he encountered Guyana’s late Commonwealth Champion and World rater, Patrick Ford one day. His boxing career was reignited. He soon began training at a gym in Liberty Avenue, Queen’s NY. It was then that he learnt of the Annual National United States Masters Amateur Boxing tournament billed for the Gleason’s Gym, Front Street Brooklyn, New York, and decided to enter. It is now history that he registered a second round technical knockout over Lonnie McCabe, a young pugilist from Albany USA, to
win the national welterweight title. In that fight the Guyanese pugilist tipped the scales at 142lbs, three less than his opponent. Sulaiman said that he loves the sport and will continue boxing because he is enjoying it. He stated that he loves to keep fit and is looking forward to his next fight and helping out young boxers in his home country. He will be returning to the USA to continue training for whatever fight is upcoming and the next edition of the National United States Masters Amateur Boxing tournament and hopefully the New York State Championships. He is presently being trained by Darius Ford. (Samuel Whyte)
Monday December 07, 2015
Liverpool beaten by lowly Newcastle
Newcastle United’s Georginio Wijnaldum celebrates after Liverpool’s Martin Skrtel (not pictured) scores an own goal and the first for Newcastle. (Reuters / Andrew Yates) LONDON (Reuters) Liverpool missed the chance to close in on the Premier League’s top four when they suffered a shock 2-0 defeat to lowly Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Sunday. Dutchman Georginio Wijnaldum, signed from PSV Eindhoven in the closeseason, forced Martin Skrtel into an own goal in the 69th minute and then added a second himself in added time. That gave Newcastle only a second home win of the season and took them above neighbours and relegation rivals Sunderland in the bottom three. All that Liverpool could point to after a disappointing display was a wronglydisallowed goal by full-back Alberto Moreno that would have brought them an equaliser 10 minutes from the end. Juergen Klopp’s side remain seventh, six points behind the Champions League places, after only their second defeat in the 12 games since the German took over from Brendan Rodgers in October. Newcastle manager Steve McClaren had wanted his team to “get back to the basics of work-rate and organisation” and they did so to good effect in matching
Liverpool’s pressing game. With the home side content to sit back and Liverpool unable to break them down, the game took a long while to warm up and threatened to become the first goalless draw between the sides for 41 years. The visitors made nothing of a crop of early corners and until Jordon Ibe swung one over in the 22nd minute there was not a sniff of a scoring chance. Centre-half Dejan Lovren headed it down invitingly but Christian Benteke lifted the bouncing ball over the bar from barely three metres out. Position Team 1 Leicester 2 Arsenal 3 Man City 4 Man Utd 5 Tottenham 6 West Ham 7 Liverpool 8 Crystal Palace 9 Watford 10 Stoke 11 Everton 12 Southampton 13 West Brom 14 Chelsea 15 Swansea 16 Norwich 17 Bournemouth 18 Newcastle 19 Sunderland 20 Aston Villa
Newcastle’s only threatening moment in the first half-hour predictably came in a swift counter when Papiss Cisse broke away and was briefly one-on-one with Martin Skrtel but delayed and allowed covering defenders to get back and dispossess him. McClaren’s team had a better moment just before the interval when Cisse flicked on a corner and Congolese defender Chancel Mbwemba headed over the bar. Newcastle took the lead after 69 minutes when Moussa Sissoko’s cross was slightly miscontrolled by Wijnaldum but he still managed to fire in a shot that Skrtel deflected in. Klopp had been dissatisfied enough to make a double change with an hour played, sending on Daniel Sturridge and fellow England international Adam Lallana for Benteke and the equally ineffective Roberto Firmino. The two substitutes were involved in a rare scoring opportunity but Sturridge pulled his shot carelessly wide. And Wijnaldum made sure of the points when he clipped Sissoko’s perfect through ball over keeper Simon Mignolet. Played 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 14 15 15 14 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15
GD 11 14 14 10 13 4 1 5 1 -1 8 3 -5 -7 -8 -10 -12 -14 -12 -15
Points 32 30 29 29 26 23 23 22 22 22 21 21 19 15 14 13 13 13 12 6
Essequibo, West Berbice, Georgetown... From page 35 his team innings. Akshaya Persaud and Safraz Esau made 16 each as Kevon Jawahir bagged 5-59, Keyron Fraser 3-28 and Steffan Adams 2-48. West Berbice responded with 227-6 in 46 overs. Andrew Dutchin and Krishundat Ramoo rescued their team with a seven-wicket stand of 123 after they were restricted to 104-6. Dutchin slammed an unbeaten 72 while Ramoo cracked 69 not out. Avishkar Sewkarran and Raffell Estraido made 12 and 19 respectively; Persaud
claimed 2-38. At Bourda, Georgetown overcame East Coast Demerara by 77 runs. Georgetown scored 209 all out in 49.2 overs, taking first strike. Sherfene Rutherford hit 53, Jeetendra Sookdeo 40 and Kwame Crosse 31. Leg spinner Steven Sankar snared 4-40 and Vivian Albert 2-29. East Coast were sent packing for 132 in 41.2 overs in reply. Brian Sattaur struck 50 and Kamesh Yadram 25; left arm spinner Devon Lord grabbed 5-24 and Kellon Carmichael 224. At Port Mourant, New
Amsterdam Canje got the better of Upper Corentyne by 36 runs. New Amsterdam Canje batted first and managed 218-8 in 50 overs. Akeem Hinds led with 70, while Eugene La Fleur made 47 and Jomal La Fleur 22; Clinton Pestano captured 330 and Jonathan Foo 2-38. Upper Corentyne were bowled out for 182 in 48.4 overs in reply. Pestano got 37, Eon Hooper 31 and David Latchaya 20. Eugene La Fleur took 3-22 and Royston Crandon 2-36. The competition continues tomorrow.
Monday December 07, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Shiv (82), Barnwell (79), Reifer (64) keep Jaguars on top after Fudadin completes fifth ton
WICB PCL Cricket
By Sean Devers in Trinidad In association with Noble House Seafoods, Stag Beer & Cascadia Hotel In sweltering heat at the Queen’s Park Oval yesterday T&T’s Red Force, set 265 to avoid an innings defeat, reached 51-2 and will hope for rain or an improved batting performance today to deny Guyana Jaguars their fourth consecutive win in their WICB PCL four-day FirstClass Franchise match. The Red Force are still 214 away from making the Jaguars bat again with eight wickets in hand after the Jaguars extended their overnight 233-3 to 475. The hosts have already lost Jeremy Solozano (1) LBW to Raymon Reifer and Yannick Cariah (16) caught off Veerasammy Permaul at 32-2 but Narsingh Deonarine (10) joined Kyle Hope (22) took their team to close. Scores: Red Force (210 & 51-2) Jaguars (475). The Red Force bowlers toiled long and hard as Assad Fudadin completed his fifth century (102) and veteran Shiv Chanderpaul continued his liking for T&T’s bowling with well constructed 82 to help the Guyana Jaguars post their fourth consecutive 300plus total from as many games with two of those totals being over 400. Chris Barnwell (79) and Raymon Reifer (64) also scored fifties as the Jaguars ended the penultimate day against the Red Force in Carnival Country in the driver’s seat. Fudadin’s ton lasted 257 balls, 349 minutes and included seven fours and two sixes while the 41-year-old Chanderpaul took 195 minutes, 182 balls for his 82 which was decorated with seven fours. The last time Chanderpaul played against this team he made an unbeaten 69 at Providence, while the last time he faced T&T in Trinidad, he scored 108 in March 2013 when he and his son Tagenarine, became only the second Father/Son pair to play in a Regional First-Class match after Sir Learie Constantine and his father became the first. Chanderpaul added 66 for the fourth wicket with Fudadin and 74 for fifth with Reifer but fell 18 short of his 72nd First-Class hundred as he played with a lot more urgency than in the recent past. Barnwell made 79 from 98
balls, 124 minutes with 11 fours and added 124 with Reifer who scored 64 from 230 minutes, 184 balls with five fours to compound the Red Force misery. The day started in gorgeous sunshine with Fudadin on 94 and Chanderpaul on 22 with the Jaguars enjoying a lead of 23 on 233-3. The left-handed Fudadin began positively, stroking pacer M a r l o n R i c h a r d s behind point for a couple off the fifth ball of the day’s first over before a sublime cover drive raced to the ropes off the next ball to bring up Fudadin’s ton. It was his first since his 103 for West Indies ‘A’ against Sri Lanka ‘A’ in October 2014 in Sri Lanka. Uthman Muhammad then captured his first scalp at this level when Fudadin pushed forward and touched one that left him to the keeper to leave the Jaguars on 249-4 in the eighth over. Reifer joined Chanderpaul who smashed Muhammad for four when he bowled short and wide on an easy paced track before stroking Imran Khan’s first ball of the day to the mid-wicket boundary. The experienced lefthander then tucked Khan for a single behind square to register his 132nd First-Class fifty and celebrated with an exquisitely timed push through cover off Khan for four before again reaching the boundary with a deft flick past the keeper to move into the 60s. Reifer supported Chanderpaul who grew in confidence after passing his second fifty for the season and an extra cover driven boundary off Khan just before lunch, which took the former West Indies Captain into the 80’s, was as authoritative as any he has played in his 21 years at this level. But eight before minutes Lunch the ‘Tiger’ from Unity wearing a Jaguar’s uniform, was trapped LBW to Khan at 323-5. Barnwell joined Reifer who hit Deonarine for four, while Barnwell clobbered Khan back over his head for a boundary and at Lunch the Jaguars had reached 336-5 to extend their lead to 126 runs with five wickets in hand. Reifer was on 27 and Barnwell on seven as the Jaguars scored 103 runs in the session and lost two wickets to maintain their ascendency. After Lunch Barnwell
started in explosive fashion hitting the first two balls from Muhammad for boundaries before the debutant pacer responded with a bouncer which Barnwell ducked under. Muhammad again bowled short and this time the DCC right-hander executed a pugnacious pull which reached the ropes like a bullet. The 24-year old Refier was not to be left out and launched into a brutal drive off Richards for four as the pair stepped on the gas. Both batsmen played
aggressively and Refier was the first to reach his eighth half-century before Barnwell, who has one hundred to his name, got to his seventh fifty as the pair continued to pile on the runs, passing their highest total for the season of 419-declared against the Leewards. By Tea the Jaguars were in control on 442-5 with Barnwell on 75 and Reifer on 62 and the lead 232. Barnwell was removed by Yannick Ottley in the second over after Tea at 447-6 and
without addition to the score Anthony Bramble was caught at slip as two wickets fell in the over. Deonarine got rid of Reifer four runs later before Ronsford Beaton (2) provided Ottley with his third victim at 458-9. Gudakesh Motie stroked Deonarine for four to take the lead to 250 and hammered Ottley for consecutive boundaries before Permaul skied Khan to mid-on leaving T&T to bat 19 overs yesterday. Ottley (3-17), Deonarine (2-80) and Khan
(2-119) were the most successful bowlers for the hosts. With thunderstorms forecast for today the Red Force will be keen to bat for as long as possible to try and deny the Jaguars advancing to 70 points from four matches. In the Jamaica versus Leewards match, Jamaica were 141 for 6 chasing a target of 150. Scores: Leewards 164 and 228; Jamaica 243 and 141-6.
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NO TIME FOR EXCUSES! Windies skipper Holder lashes performance after 10-wicket loss
Jason Holder... players need to take ownership for their own personal games. BRISBANE, Australia (CMC) — West Indies Captain Jason Holder has demanded immediate improvements from this floundering side after they suffered a humiliating 10wicket defeat to a youthful Cricket Australia XI in their fourday tour match here Saturday. In a frank assessment where he minced no words, the 24-year-old told reporters his players needed to examine themselves, take responsibility for their performances and “stop looking for excuses”, as they looked to lift themselves ahead of the opening Test against Australia starting Thursday in Hobart. “Obviously we’re going to cop a bit of criticism. We obviously have to improve, there’s no doubt about it,” a sober Holder said. “Going into the Test match, we’re up against the number-two ranked side in the world in Australia so we have to be better, we need to make the most of these coming days and make sure our preparation is very good leading up to the first game. “We’re at the stage now where we need to make some
strides forward. We’ve been a bit stagnant for a few months so we just need to pick ourselves up, try something different and find it within ourselves. “Each player has to look in the mirror, reflect on their personal performance and hope to uplift the team, especially in this first Test match.” He added: “I think the most frustrating thing is that the guys just need to take ownership sometimes and be at fault for their mistakes. I think once we own up to our mistakes and just be positive and look for ways to improve — stop looking for excuses in a sense and just look to improve — I think we will move forward quicker than we are at the moment. “Going into this Test match, I think the guys need to be a little more optimistic, need to put a higher price on their wickets and we come to bowl, we need to be a little more aggressive and try to use the conditions and extract some movement.” With just the solitary firstclass game on the tour itinerary, there have been suggestions that the
Brazilian players stand still to protest against corruption SAO PAULO (Reuters) Professional footballers across Brazil folded their arms and stood still for a short time at the start of end of season matches on Sunday to protest against alleged corruption, organisers said. Players with last season’s champions Cruzeiro and 2013 Libertadores Cup champions Atletico Mineiro were among those who ignored the referee’s whistle to demand the resignation of Marco Polo Del Nero, the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) who was indicted by U.S. authorities on Thursday. Del Nero has taken leave of absence to fight the charges and maintains his innocence. He was the third CBF president to be indicted or arrested this year. “This was all pre-arranged,” Alex, a former Coritiba and Fenerbahce player, told Reuters. “This is in protest against the CBF and the fact that nothing is happening,” he added. The former Brazil midfielder is one of the leaders of Common Sense FC, a pressure group comprising hundreds of Brazilian footballers who want better organisers and more professional management at their clubs.
Caribbean side will now be under-prepared as they come up against the Aussies. However, Holder was quick to dismiss this idea, pointing out that the schedule was known all along, and that the team had arrived in Australia with enough time to effect proper preparation. “It is what it is. We got a good first- class game and we had to make the most of it. We knew what we were up against with the schedule when we first got here,” Holder contended. “We just can’t make any excuses. We had four solid days before this first class game and we have four solid days before the first Test match, along with this game, so I think that is more than enough preparation going into the first game. “Players need to take ownership for their own personal games.” Opting to bat first at Allan Border Field, West Indies managed only 243 all out and then watched helplessly as Cricket Australia XI — with six players on first class debut — piled up 444 all out. In their second innings, the Windies slumped to 97 for seven on the third day before being dismissed for 210 early on the final morning, leaving the hosts with a mere ten runs to win. Holder said while West Indies had encountered bowler-friendly conditions on the first day and the opposition had the best of the wicket when they batted, there were no excuses that could be made for the visitors’ poor performance. “On the first day, outside was overcast and their bowlers bowled really well up front and the ball did a bit in the morning session,” he explained. “Our batsmen fought a little bit in the end but we obviously didn’t hang in as long as we possibly wanted. Having said that, the wicket got better as it went on and they got that part of the wicket when they batted. “I don’t think we were as disciplined as we could be when we bowled, we leaked some boundaries here and there and just weren’t consistent.” He added: “I think the pitch was a very good cricket pitch. I think anything at fault with us would have to be down to our players. We can’t blame the pitch for stuff like this. We just have to be better in the Test match and cope with the conditions.”
Monday December 07, 2015
LABA/Banks Malta Supreme Christmas basketball
Bulls humble Flames 64-54, Raiders trounce Falcons 82-23 Half Mile Bulls triumphed over Block 22 Flames 64-54 but Retrieve Raiders crushed Bankers Trust Falcons 82-23 to begin their quest when the Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s (LABA) Open Christmas Open basketball championship bounced off Saturday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court. Playing in the night’s opener the Bulls were led to their win by Dennis Niles who registered a game high 19 points, while teammate Jamal Bethune supported with 10 for the Bulls who took control early as they led 16-13 after the first quarter and when half time came were ahead 30-24.
The Flames did make a game of it but could not respond in kind and were trailing at the end of the third quarter 49-41 before folding as the Bulls took a ten point win 64-54 in the end. Only Selwyn Henry with 14 and Aubrey Johnson 13 performed well for the Flames. The second game was a blow out for the Raiders, who never looked back after opening the first quarter with a leading 18-8 score, and by half time were up by a huge score 56-12 holding their opponents to just four points and were motoring at 68-18 at the end of the third quarter. Then they completed their demolition with an 82-23 win.
Five players for the Raiders were in double digit scores with Coel Winter leading with 13, as former nationals Abdulla Hamid and Dwayne Roberts along with Derron Montrose and Alexander each recorded 12 points apiece in the lopsided win. The two best shoots for the falcons were Lawrence Simon and Allister Lewis. Tonight Raiders will seek another win against the Flames, while the second game pits top guns Amelia’s Ward Jets against Victory Valley Royals at the tournament venue, the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court when the tournament continues.
Platini lawyers say document could help prove his innocence
UEFA President Michel Platini attends a news conference after the draw for the 2015/2016 UEFA Europa League soccer competition at Monaco’s Grimaldi Forum in Monte Carlo, Monaco August 28, 2015. (Reuters/Eric Gaillard) BERNE (Reuters) European football chief Michel Platini’s legal team believes a 23-page memo published by a French newspaper on Sunday could help clear him of wrongdoing and allow him back into the FIFA presidential race. Platini, until recently seen as the man to lead football’s governing body FIFA out of its worst ever graft crisis, has been suspended for 90 days by FIFA’s ethics committee while it investigates his conduct. The final verdict is expected by the end of the month and Platini’s lawyers have already said that ethics investigators had recommended a lifelong ban for the Frenchman. FIFA will hold an election to find a replacement for its president Sepp Blatter, also suspended, on Feb. 26, and Platini, who has registered as a candidate, cannot run while
he is banned, although he might be allowed to take part if he is cleared. The investigation centres on a 2 million Swiss franc ($2 million) payment from FIFA to Platini, a former France team captain and coach who has been UEFA president since 2002, in 2011 for work he completed between 1998 and 2002. Blatter has said there was a verbal agreement between the two while Platini says the payment was delayed only because of financial problems at FIFA. On Sunday, French newspaper Le Journal du Dimanche published a 23page memo which it said was presented to UEFA executive committee members in November 1998 and mentioned that Platini was being paid 1 million Swiss francs a year for work he was doing for FIFA. The newspaper said the
memo was presented at a meeting in Stockholm, chaired by Lennart Johansson who was UEFA president at the time. “From the moment that we have proof of an agreement between FIFA and Mr Platini, and of knowledge of this agreement by officials of UEFA, then this (ethics committee) inquiry falls down,” Thomas Clay, one of Platini’s lawyers, told Reuters by telephone. “For us, it’s very important evidence that Mr Platini has always been telling the truth.” Clay said he had seen the document although he did not know how the newspaper had obtained it and why it had taken so long to appear. The newspaper could not be immediately contacted for comment, while the ethics committee declined to comment. “It shows that the contract did not have any sort of secret character and that many people, including those in UEFA and FIFA, have known about it since 1998,” said Clay. The Swiss attorney general’s office has opened a criminal investigation against Blatter over the payment, which it describes as “disloyal”. Platini was described by attorney general Michael Lauber as being somewhere “between a witness and an accused person” in the case. FIFA has been buffeted by a wave of scandals and as the sport faces criminal investigations in Switzerland and the United States.