Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
OIL ATTRACTS U.S AIRLINES
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or some time now, Caribbean Airlines has been the flagship airline carrier for Guyana. However, there has been constant pressure on Governments, past and present by Guyanese, especially those in the Diaspora to have more airlines ply the New York-Guyana route. Poor services, high fares and mistreatment of Guyanese by immigration and custom officials at Piarco airport, Trinidad caused the demand for other airlines. Their requests have been answered. Since taking office in May 2015, the government has recognized the need to improve the country’s air and land connectivity, especially with oil production scheduled for 2020. It has often been said that Guyana geographical location has made it a potential hub between the U.S., South America and the rest of the world. In recognition of this and the increasing number of visitors, oil experts and business officials expected to visit the country, the government has decided to rebuild the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and lengthen its runway to accommodate wide-bodied aircrafts. The result is that larger airlines are now landing at CJIA. Until the recent accident Fly Jamaica was using large planes to move between Guyana, New York and Canada. That airline is now out of service but American Airlines has added Guyana to its South American route. The airline is expected to add more flights as the need arises. American Airlines decision to choose Guyana as one of its destination in South America coincides with the rebuilding of CJIA, its confidence in the country as a desirable tourist destination and its emerging oil and gas industry. Choosing a country like Guyana which has less than a million people as one of its destination routes was not an easy decision for American Airlines. As reported, it was made possible by the hard work of several state agencies and months of planning to provide more options to the flying public and tourists to and from the country. American Airlines decision to fly to Guyana could make it the leading U.S. carrier in the region. Guyana has become its 19th destination in South America. It is the only U.S carrier to offer airline services to the country at the moment and the second to Suriname Airways which is currently serving the Georgetown-Miami route. The U.S. carrier has stated that it is considering adding the New York-Guyana route at a later date to accommodate the huge Guyanese population in the Tri-State area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. The presence of American Airlines, one of the largest U.S carriers in Guyana is a very positive step towards the development of air services in the country. This is an important prerequisite for the expansion and development of the oil and gas economy. Hundreds of oil industry experts and sectorial workers are expected to travel to the country in the coming months to help boost the oil and gas sector. Less than one month after American Airlines began plying the Guyana-Miami route, another major U.S airline, United Airlines is exploring the possibility of adding Guyana to its list of South American destinations. The Houston-based carrier, like its American counterpart, is seeking to take advantage of Guyana’s emerging oil and gas economy. Currently, Caribbean Airlines, Fly Jamaica, COPA Airlines and American Airlines are serving the Guyana-US route. It is obvious that with more U.S air carriers coming on stream, Guyanese in Miami and in the Tri-State area would have more price options and greater access to flights from Guyana to the United States.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
Minister Ramjattan should apologise to sugar workers DEAR EDITOR, T h e G AW U w a s extremely dismayed to hear and to read about the utterances of Vice President and Minister of Public S e c u r i t y, K h e m r a j Ramjattan during his contribution to the 2019 National debate. Indeed when looking at the Minister’s expressions, one had to wonder what was going through the Minister’s mind, if anything at all, as his statements could only be seen as divisive and his unhelpful remarks will not do any good in realizing greater cohesion among our people. Our Union, from an online report of December 06 in another media outfit, saw that Minister Ramjattan, ignominiously, sought to give cover to his colleague Minister of Public Health and PNC Chairperson, Volda Lawerence when he sought, in vain, to equate her recent viral comments to the jobs of now terminated sugar workers.
The Minister is quoted as saying that “[y]ou want to say that that is wrong, but when you state all the time that you got to employ sugar workers, you got to employ sugar workers, that is not wrong. That is not jobs for the boys? Oh! That is not jobs for the boys? If it is anything it is also jobs for the boys”. The GAWU, and we believe many persons, are perplexed by Minister Ramjattan’s statement. Indeed, his statement has hardly any justification or credence. Moreover, the use of such derogatory terms to describe the employment of thousands of ordinary Guyanese workers has no basis anywhere, much less the highest House of the land. But then again the goodly Minister Ramjattan is no stranger to putting his foot in his mouth and has always been a lightning rod of c o n t r o v e r s y. T h a t notwithstanding, the Minister ’s statement is
inexcusable and he should follow his colleague Minister Lawrence and do the decent thing and apologise. B u t t h e M i n i s t e r ’s outlandishness seems to have no bounds, nor brake for that matter, as he continued his tirade and said to the Parliament and the nation that”[y]ou want us to employ your people…”This sort of language and outburst has absolutely no place in our contemporary society. We for fifty-two years now, have proudly called ourselves Guyanese and have committed ourselves to being “One People”, to having “One Nation” and to working towards “One Destiny”. The exclamation by Minister Ramjattan is, therefore, nothing less than a slap in the face of our national ideals and objectives and what we as Guyanese have committed to upholding. But the fact that the Minister has chosen to venture in the direction he
did can only serve to add fuel to the fire that the minimization of the sugar industry has no other basis than a political motive. For the GAWU, the Minister’s utterances bear a striking resemblance to what was said on page 4 of the so far unreleased White Paper on Sugar, dated March 16, 2017, which said “[m]ost of the employees of GuySuCo are supporters of the Opposition political party, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP)” These Guyanese who the Minister now deems the sugar workers as “your people” were the very same people he canvassed and received their support to place him in the ivory tower he now occupies. The Minister, prior to where he is today, had said on March 29, 2015 at Whim that “[w]e are not going to, in any way, close the sugar industry”. The now Minister, when he sat on the other side of the House, in his 2014 Budget (Continued on page 6)
Can the Guyanese people believe with each passing year their standard of living will improve? I think not! DEAR EDITOR, It is quite evident that as the Finance Minister ’s budget speech gets longer, the budgets get bigger but the ‘good life’ promise becomes equally illusive! But I will just focus on the deliverables to the Agriculture sector where it can be seen that a decrease in budgetary allocation has precipitated a drastic decline of the sector. In 2015 the theme of the Budget was ‘A Fresh Approach to a Good Life in A Green Economy’ and the growth of the economy fell to 3.2% from 3.8% in 2014. The agriculture sector grew by only 3.1% relative to a growth of 7.2 % in 2014. Sugar output increased by 6.9% to 231,145 tonnes and rice production increased by 8.3 percent to 687,784 tonnes. The Ministry of Agriculture’s Budgetary allocation was $20.894 billion. It is clear that the agriculture sector was receiving the dividends from investments in 2014. In 2016 the theme attempted to excuse the poor performance in 2015, it became ‘Stimulating Growth, Restoring Confidence: the Good Life Beckons’. However, the
$230 billion Budget failed to do any ‘stimulation’, ‘confidence’ dwindled and the ‘good life’ became an empty echo. The growth of the economy was an imperceptible 3.3% relative to the 3.2% in 2015. The projected growth was 4.4%.The budgetary allocation for the agriculture sector continues to get lesser and the effects were manifested in the decline of this sector. The agriculture sector (including sugar processing and rice milling) experienced a contraction of 12.1 percent relative to 3.1 percent growth in 2015. Sugar output decreased by 20.7 percent to 183,400 tonnes and rice output fell by 22.3 percent to 534,450 tonnes. In 2017 the theme was “Building a Diversified, Green Economy: Delivering the Good Life to All Guyanese”. Again the Budget failed on all three counts, as it became crystal clear that the themes have become platitudes which no one pays attention to. It increased to $250 billion. In this year the Guyanese economy was projected to grow by 3.8 percent. The Finance Minister
boasted that, ‘Budget 2017 is designed to consolidate the gains we have made since our accession to office, improve economic performance, and define a sustainable pathway to the happiness and prosperity of Guyana’. This never h a p p e n e d . G u y a n a ’s economic growth contracted to an all-time low of 2.1%. The Minister’s empty boasts have by now has become a regular embarrassment to the Coalition Government. The agriculture sector experienced a marginal increase of 0.4% while sugar output decreased by 25.2 percent to 137,307 tonnes and rice output increased by 17.9 percent to 630,104 tonnes which was still below the 2015 production of 687,784 tonnes. In 2018 the Finance Minister became tired of the repetitive insipidity of his own budget, so he simply stated the theme as ‘The Journey to the Good Life Continues’. It has now become an irrefutable conclusion that this journey has not even yet begun for the masses, but continued for those in the Coalition Government. The National Budget was becoming bigger and the
Minister’s budget speech had now become longer and more political in nature, it had grown to $267 billion. The half-year growth of the economy was 4.5% but the Finance Minister predicted that the end of year growth will be around 3.4%. However, given his ‘great’ prognostic ability we can expect this to be lower, probably closer to the 3% mark. The budgetary allocation for the agriculture sector was just a meagre $16.8 billion and the sector is expected to grow by 1.1% over the .4% growth the previous year. In 2014 this sector grew by 7.4%. In 2018 sugar production will decline to an all-time low of 98,000 tonnes and rice production is expected to be around 640,000 tonnes, still unable to surpass the 2015 production of 687,784 tonnes. It must be noted that rice production was on an upward trajectory during the PPP/C’s tenure in Government. In 2014 it had climbed to 635,238 tonnes. What is important to note is that in all these years of the Coalition Government in office, the ‘improvements’ are always calculated from (Continued on page 6)
Wednesday December 12, 2018
City Hall has to be degutted and the intractable elements replaced DEAR EDITOR, I must congratulate most sincerely the Former Chancellor of the Judiciary, the Honourable Cecil Kennard for his perspicacity, thoroughness, intellectual dexterity and expediency in carrying through with the much needed Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the shenanigans at City Hall. His task was not a simple one, as corruption, malfeasance, nepotism, slackness and incompetence are the order of the day at the Georgetown City Council. As dem boys would seh ‘If trousers say massah teef, yuh can’t doubt am’. To get an understanding of the magnitude of ineptitude, and lack of transparency and accountability at that institution, one will have to go back for more than a decade, during which time absolutely no audits were done, the payroll ballooned to well over 100 million per month and Georgetown became a failed city.One can only hope that the commissioners who will have to sit and review these recommendations and pronounce on them, will not only accept
all of the recommendations, but would go even further in cleaning the Augean stables. It would be totally unacceptable for these delinquent officers to be g i v e n a ‘golden parachute’ and sent home with all of their benefits or just given a slap on the wrist. Not only should a clean sweep be made of all the errant officers, but the councilors who signed the vouchers for all of these billions of dollars that were improperly spent, those who approved the hiring of hundreds of their kith and kin, and those of the senior officers, and even those Councillors who flew around the world, committing Council into shady deals, should also seriously be brought seriously to book. If we are genuine about the restoration of Georgetown, including the rehabilitation of City Hall, ridding the markets and the areas contiguous to them of the daily crimes, or fixing the roads, the street lights, cleaning the drains, but more importantly, of advancing our city to the elevated state of other capitals around the world, then City Hall has to
be degutted and the intractable elements replaced by fresh, honest and talented individuals. Where did evils like corruption at the Georgetown Municipality arise from? It came from the never-ending greed of some senior officers and Councillors. The fight for a corruptionfree, ethical capital will have to be fought against this greed and replace it with a ‘what can I give’ spirit. Georgetown has to be run like a modern corporate entity and not continue with this level of mendicancy delinquency and venality. The opportunity of the findings and recommendations of this COI must be taken now to allow Georgetown to pick up the pieces and rise again, otherwise the citizens of Georgetown may be doomed to a future for our children and grandchildren that relegates them to living in underdevelopment for decades to come, while the ‘big enchiladas’ at City Hall continue to line their pockets, and abuse the city of its resources for their own selfish ways. Sincerely Modi Sankar
STOP THE BALL FIELD POLITICS! DEAR EDITOR, What is the role of the opposition? Is it to derail the progress of the nation, or is it to see that those in government move the nation forward for the betterment of the people? Something seems to be very wrong with the people’s representatives in the parliament of Guyana. When the politics of the day becomes a personal vendetta between government ministers and opposition members, there must be a public outcry from those they were elected to serve. Honorary members of the House must be reminded that their election into office was on the pretext that they were best suited to take the nation forward. Recent acts of the opposition in Guyana to hinder the passing of a progressive budget and doing so using petty political
maneuvers, is definitely not in the interest of the nation and people they serve. Guyana must understand that at this age she must come to maturity. Our politicians must be wise and learn from leaders like Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King Jr. No nation or people will stand if that nation or people continue to promote divisions among themselves. As a nation, we now stand on the trestle of the greatest opportunity presented to us for national prosperity. Such an opportunity must not be squandered by childish, racist political gimmicks. We have a nation to mould, and must do so not being selfish ,but putting first our children, and all our people. Those that are guilty of converting state assets to their own personal use, must also return same, or pay its full cost. Leaders of the people
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must hold themselves to high moral and ethical standards. There must be no double standards. Our criminal justice systems must not appear to favour some, and be cruel to others. Ladies and gentlemen of the great House, let not history hold you responsible for failing this great nation and people. Take stock of your actions; our children, and neighbours are watching. We must come together now and build this nation, we must unite our people, or those that look with envious eyes may have thoughts of their own. Finally, I remind all that Guyana belongs to all Guyanese, and those who represent the people must do so with this in mind. Those seeking to divide must step down now, and allow others with love for this nation and its people to take their place. Apostle Adrian Wade
Bevon Currie’s contribution was invaluable DEAR EDITOR, It is with profound sadness that I take time out to reflect on a comrade and a former youth leader of the GYSM and PNCR, who has passed a few days ago. Bevon Currie’s passing has left me in a state of perpetual reflection and denial of his death. As I reflect, I kept seeing his calm demeanor, his willing and supportive spirit and his humble disposition. Bevon was a true youth leader, patriot, comrade and a decent human being. I knew Bevon for many years. Bevon was the kind of person who gave because he felt compelled to give. He was humble and contented; one who faced difficulty with a sense of calmness. He loved a spirited political debate, loved to argue even if he was losing the argument he would make his point. However, when all arguments were over, he skillfully conjured up a light conversation to remind you that his argument was over. His sense of camaraderie and friendship reminded you that he did not bear malice or see others as his foes. He had an ability to move on, on spot! He had a unique ability to make friends easily. I am quite sure his friends list spans the entire country. New members to the GYSM quickly got to know Bevon and appreciated his friendship very quickly. Many confided in him and trusted his judgement. Bevon was a tough politician. He took many political punches, he gave some also, but he never seemed to take any of it personal. We have both been on different sides of the internal “PNCR politicking”. We rooted and campaigned vigorously for different candidates for leadership at various times of our activism and we have spent time trying to convince the other to support the other’s candidates. We reasoned, we dis-
cussed, and we argued. We debated, but at the end of the day, we remained comrades who were always respectful to each other. We supported each other in our roles as leaders in the GYSM. My last text message from him on PNCR politics came on August 5, 2018 when he asked me to support a certain candidate for a particular position at the 2018 PNCR Congress. He was a true political “go getter”. He did what he needed to do to support his preferred candidate. He worked all the blurred lines or obscured paths. He had no enemies, even if they thought he was their enemy. Bevon Currie was a deliberate and thoughtful individual. He was the kind of comrade who gave even when they had nothing to give. He respected everyone, and tried to work with whatever he had or whomever he was asked to do so with. He made no excuses. His passion to serve in PNCR and his commitment to the party’s youth arm were remarkable. We were fortunate to have such a humble and decent human being as one of us. I am fortunate that I had the opportunity to know and work with Bevon Currie. He gave more than he ever had. The GYSM and the PNCR are better today because of the contribution people like Bevon Currie made. Too often, the contributions made by these true patriots go under the radar because of their quiet personal demeanour. Too often, we wait until the dedicated have fallen and are no more, to recognize and appreciate their contributions. Too often, we fail to express the simple gesture of
appreciation to those who not only gave us their best, but also gave all they had. Too often, our show of gratitude and display of love come at a time when the fallen can least appreciate that outpouring of appreciation. Bevon Currie was the kind of comrade who stuck it out after consecutive electoral defeats at the polls. He still had the confidence that his party would emerge victorious one day. Like the truly faithful, he kept that faith and passed his optimism on to others. Comrade Currie has made his mark on PNCR politics and the nation. He made his contribution, and his service should be acknowledged. My sincere condolences to his family and many friends. We love you Bevon, but God loves you more. Sleep on my friend, sleep on. It will be difficult to come to grips with speaking of you in the past tense. You were a bright light to many who experienced dull moments. Your optimism was rare. You were a decent, caring, kind and respectful human being anyone would have been happy to have as a friend. Like all of us, Bevon was no perfect human being, but his faults paled in contrast to his strengths and positive energy. May his soul rest in peace. Lurlene Nestor
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A grave injustice which must be corrected DEAR EDITOR, Government’s decision to provide funding for a martyrs’ monument in Linden, commemorating the victims of the persons gunned down during the Linden protests in 2012, is appropriate, as it is just. After all, these three men were only protesting against a decision by the then PPP/C administration, which had it been accepted, would have caused an even more onerous economic burden to be foisted on the citizens of a community that had already sunk deep in the mire of economic depression. Those men died in defence of the human rights of their community. They paid the ultimate price for daring to be among the many thousands of Lindeners who confronted what had been clearly an unconscionable plan that never took into consideration the realities of their daily economic condition. Instead, they were shot down by security forces. It is only fitting that their memories be remembered and honoured.Thus, Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan’s statement which indicated his intention to ask government’s consider-
ation for an increase of the compensation that had been mandated by the Commission of Inquiry is not only just, but an intention to correct a situation that flies in the face of fairness, and natural justice.Evidently, the sums awarded were an insult. It was as if those persons’ lives had not any price or value, because of their working-class status; contribution towards life, and that of their families. Proper compensation in any circumstance, whether for death or maiming, ought to take into consideration factors such as age, potential for earnings, inclusive of future opportunities for such, and of course, family responsibilities. Therefore, to learn that each of the commissioners received emoluments that were more than the compensatory sum paid to each of the victims, exposes a blatant denial of human rights, and social discrimination. The Minister is correct in his view and statement. There should be consideration for correction of this social injustice. Regards Dillon Goring
PM can indeed attend Parliament while acting as President DEAR EDITOR, The constitution clearly states that Prime Minister of Guyana is a registered Member of Parliament and allowed to vote in Parliament under law. He can only lose that right to attend Parliament and vote once his period of election is over. Therefore, the current Prime Minister, even while performing the duties of an Acting President, is completely within his rights to continue attending Parliament and voting on all issues before the Parliament. Trying to force a no confidence vote by playing a game of
numbers in Parliament is a flawed and ineffective tactic by the opposition party. It is not a mature political strategy. The PM’s right to sit in his lawfully elected seat in Parliament is a legal act, enshrined in law, and cannot be prevented just because he is performing another legal act of acting as President while the President is away. As such, the hugely unpopular no confidence vote will fail in parliament. It has already failed in public opinion. Alan Zaakir PNCR Central Toronto Chapter, Canada
Minister Ramjattan should apologise... From page 4 debate contribution said that, “I want to make the point that when it comes to sugar, it touches a chord in all of us – this side of the aisle and that side. It is important that we ensure that that sector succeeds...” So we ask: what has happened between then and now? For us it is as clear as day that the Minister, recognizing his waning political fortunes now that his opportunism is fully exposed, has shed all his pretensions and will do all that is necessary to maintain his now favoured lifestyle. The Minister, according to the aforementioned online article, also said that the Opposition claimed that the Government “...never loved sugar workers and that we fool them…” But isn’t that exactly what the APNU+AFC has done? The Administration has been most unsympathetic to the cry and call of the sugar workers. It had denied them pay increases and reduced benefits, and for several thousand made them joblessness and placed them in a most miserable situation. Today, the workers have to fight for their lawful sever-
Can the Guyanese people believe with each passing... From page 4 the poor performance in the preceding year.In 2014 the economic growth was 3.8 % and the growth in the agriculture sector was 7.4%. This has fallen to 3.4% and 1.1% respectively in 2018, with bigger contractions in 2015, 2016 and 2017. It is indicative that the economy has never fully regained the progress made during the previous Government’s tenure in office.Mr Jordan once again bragged that Budget 2019 among other things is aimed ‘to support the development of the non-oil sector’, yet he again failed to allocate a substantial sum to the Agriculture sector as he seemed to be oblivious of the ‘oil curse’ present all around us.The 2019 Budget is a humongous $300.7 billion, but the agriculture budgetary allocation is a paltry $17 billion. This is not short-sightedness it is blindness! It is clear that former Minister Ramsammy’s statement is
Wednesday December 12, 2018
factual, that the Agriculture Sector is now an impoverished orphan.In the Minister’s Budget speech 2019, his theme again resounded and regurgitated the platitudes of the previous presentations ‘Transforming the Economy, Empowering People, Building Sustainable Communities for the Good Life’. His ‘lubrication’ and ‘stimulation’ lacked intent, purpose and aggressiveness, even though oil is expected in abundance. I wish to humbly submit, Mr Jordan, that you have had over three years to do what you now promised to do and you have failed the Guyanese people miserably. Can the Guyanese people now believe you when with each passing year their standard of living is eroded? I think not! Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf RDC Councilor- Region 6
ance; they have to protest to be treated like their counterparts in other parts of the State, and they have to raise their voices to be respected. Today, the promised ‘Good Life’ has become a meaningless and hollow slogan. Now, Guyanese are being fed another slogan - “Wait on Oil”. The Public Security Minister also in his contribution is quoted as saying that “…the administration… every month for 36 months Guysuco wanted 1 billion dollars to bail out sugar, and we gave it to them and when we gave it to them we started getting criticism…” But for the large investment the Minister referred to, did the Government get value? Between 2015 and 2017, sugar production fell from 231,000 tonnes in 2015, 183,000 tonnes in 2016, and 136,000 tonnes in 2017. During that period, workers average earnings declined by $284,000. But in the same time, monies accruing to GuySuCo’s Key Management personnel doubled. While the Minister, it appears, is decrying the support the Administration gave to the sugar industry, he seems to not be aware that by the end of 2019, his Government will spend $1.2T that is $1,200B. In other words, the sums provided to the sugar industry represented just 3 per cent of aggregate expenditure. When one considers that impact, on an economic and a social level, the relatively small sum was more than justifiable. The Minister in his rant said too that “…we must pump more, we must pump more. No! We will certainly have to bring it to an end”. Well what does bringing it to an end mean? To say the least, it means the Treasury will have to find more monies for Drainage and Irrigation, already roughly $1B in supplementary allocations were sought for this purpose.
It also means more monies to address crime and other anti-social behaviour in sugar communities. It will also mean that NIS and GRA will lose thousands of contributors apart from other taxes arising from the consumption of goods and services by now jobless sugar workers. But the unquantifiable and probably the most devastating impact will come through the shattering of dreams, the abandoning of aspirations, the breaking-up of families, alcohol and other abuse, and so many other things. The Public Security Minister is reported to have said too it was “…well-known that sugar would have been no longer profitable…” It seems the Minister was there, but yet not present, during the so-called consultation meetings between the Government and the Opposition and the Trade Unions regarding the future of the sugar industry in February 2017. Certainly, had he been really present he would have known that sugar’s successful future lies in a transformation to the sugar cane industry which the GAWU spoke extensively about and provided a written submission to him, among other Government officials. Those suggestions were also contained in the Sugar CoI report as well, a copy of which he received. To now come and say that sugar is unprofitable when, at this very time, his Government is talking about strategies identical to what GAWU and the CoI proposed, is to be engaged in the practice of fake news. The GAWU repeats that Minister Ramjattan’s latest tirade on sugar suggests that an apology is the least and right thing to do in the circumstances. Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
Cuba calls medical treatment to President Granger its ‘fraternal duty’
Cuba is calling its provision of needful medical treatment to President David Granger its fraternal duty. At least this is according to Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla. This was detailed in a statement issued by the Embassy of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in Cuba. Parilla said, “Cuba will do everything in its power for his [President Granger] full recovery so that he could resume his official duties as quickly as is practicable on a full-time basis.” Parilla made this disclosure when he paid a courtesy call to President Granger on Monday. During that meeting President Granger took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the Cuban Government and the team of medical specialists catering to him for the treatment that he is being afforded in Havana. In fact he hastened to tell the Foreign Minister that he was very satisfied with the high level of care and attention that he is receiving at Centro de Investigaciones Medico Quirurgicas [CIMEQ] in Havana, Cuba and praised the professionalism and expertise he has been afforded. At the meeting, too, the Cuban Foreign Minister brought greetings and best
President Granger is seen with Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodriguez, [right] and Guyana’s Ambassador to Cuba, Halim Majeed. wishes for President Granger’s speedy recovery from his Excellency, Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez, President and Head of State of Cuba and Army General Raul
Castro Ruz, First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba. The Foreign Minister also expressed complete satisfaction with the relations between Cuba and Guyana and viewed
President Granger’s acceptance of an official invitation from President Bermudez to pay a State visit to Cuba next year as further evidence of the close relations between the
two countries. President Granger, who has been appreciative of the concern that has been demonstrated for his wellbeing, has continually ex-
pressed sincere thanks to all those individuals and organisations in and out of Guyana that have continued to send best wishes for his speedy recovery. After completing a second bout of chemotherapy in Cuba recently, President David Granger was set to return to Guyana yesterday. This is according to information released by t h e E m b a s s y. P r e s i d e n t Granger, in the company of his wife, First Lady Sandra Granger, last week left for Cuba to undergo the medical treatment at CIMEQ. After an intensive series of tests by specialist doctors, he was diagnosed with NonHodgkin Lymphoma, a type of cancer. Reports suggest that the Head of State has been responding well to treatment and is expected to make a full recovery.
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
Berbice cops “hit a wall” in Number 19 robbery investigation - three detainees released
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nvestigators in Berbice are treading on thin ice. They were forced to release the three persons that were detained for the Number 19, Corentyne robbery. There was reportedly no evidence to tie them to the crime. They were arrested the day after the robbery that took place at Prakash Supermarket where a pregnant woman was beaten along with her 19-year-old son and the proprietor of the business, Dewen Ramdeo. Armed bandits had stormed Ramdeo’s business on December 5, last, and ordered customers and his relatives to lie flat on floor while they demanded jewellery, cash and items from the su-
permarket. Ramdeo’s pregnant relative who was spending some time with him and his teen daughter was in the upper flat of the two-storeyed concrete business-home sleeping when she was confronted by an armed perpetrator. He reportedly dragged her by the hair, stripped her and dealt her three lashes to the head and broadsided her about t h e u p p e r b o d y. Ramdeo had told this publication that approximately $600,000 was stolen from the cashier’s drawer while US$1,000 and $15.000 in local currency and jewellery were taken from the pregnant woman and her two teenage children. The men escaped on bicycles that were stolen from villagers. A pair of gloves and a hat belonging to one of the bandits were left behind. These were supposed to be picked up by the police. However that was not done until a call was made to a senior officer
Prakash Supermarket
informing him that the evidence was still lying around in the supermarket 10 hours after the ordeal. Investigators had not visited the actual scene when they showed up the night the robbery occurred. Meanwhile, Kaieteur News has noticed that the majority of armed robberies that took place within the last few months are yet to be
solved. Deputy Commander Wayne DeHearte had told the press at the recent Christmas Policing presentation that the police have gained the public’s trust and more persons are coming forward with information on crimes committed in an effort to assist the police. Four armed robberies committed in Black Bush Polder
are yet to see anyone arrested and charged for the crimes while two in Bush Lot, one at a Chinese Restaurant and an-
other at the home of a single parent, have not had anyone arrested and charged as well. A rap e a n d r o b b e r y committed at Letter Kenny where one suspect was arrested and released on station bail is also left stagnant. It should be noted that in that incident the victim of the rape-robbery had positively identified the suspects since they were not masked and they were known to her. Adding to the list of unsolved armed robberies were a spate of break and enters throughout the region during the same period. Statistics provided by police in B Division show that Robbery under Arms have increased to 32 in 2018 as against 27 committed in 2017. Rape also increased from 35 in 2017 to 45 in 2018.
MOPT rewards excellence at Aurora secondary
left Ms. Donnella Collison, MOPT’s Training Co-ordinator with Svetlana Dowding right Svetlana Dowding, a Fifth former at the Aurora Secondary School, copped the top prize in Information Technology at the 2018 Caribbean Secondary Examination Council (CSEC) for her school. The Ministry of Public Telecommunication’s representative was on hand to add praise and encouragement to the students.MOPT’s Training Co-ordinator, Donnella Collison, presented Svetlana with the gift of a Tablet, compliments of the Ministry. She took the opportunity to encourage the student to pursue any of the Computer Sciences as she moves forward pursuing higher education. This year Aurora Secondary offered 13 students for Information Technology ((IT) at CSEC. It recorded a 92 percent pass rate. According to Ms. Collison, the secondary school exam syllabus, not unlike the MOPT’s training outreaches in and outside of Georgetown, are geared to encourage students to develop problem-solving skills using computer devices while sharpening their general computer literacy skills. The Ministry of Public Telecommunications also presented a computer in November to the Best Graduating Student in IT at the Corentyne Comprehensive High School.
Wednesday December 12, 2018
The Minister of Agriculture deserves a new vehicle. But not a $17M vehicle. Ministers are members of the Executive. They are the public face of the government. In fact, they are the government. They are important people. Some of them even behave as if they are higher mortals. Ministers have to be treated with respect. They ought to be given benefits befitting their high standing in society. No Minister should be driving a defective vehicle, more so, one which constantly breaks down. The sight of a Minister’s vehicle breaking down in public will bring him or her into disrepute. It is embarrassing and no Minister, regardless of if that person is AFC or APNU or WPA, should be subject to such embarrassment. The Minister of Agriculture for too long was assigned a ‘cork ball” vehicle. This is an unsatisfactory situation
and it is high time that the Minister of Agriculture receives a fit and proper vehicle. No one should begrudge the Minister or complain over the fact that an allocation has been made to ensure that he obtains a new vehicle for the New Year. But why was the sum of $17 M allocated for a vehicle. The government does not pay import taxes on vehicles and therefore this sum which is allocated is for a duty-free vehicle. G$17M amounts to US$85,000. It may be cheaper for a Minister to move from home to office using a special hire each day. If that Minister, for example lives in the city, it will not cost him more than $1000 per day or $5,000 per five day work week or $20,000 per month or $240,000 per year. For five years that works out to $1.2M or US$6,000. There will be no
maintenance costs, no petrol to be purchased and no chauffeur to be employed. Compare that to having to spend US$85,000 just for the vehicle then having to spend millions more over a five-year period for maintenance and gasoline and plus the costs associated with having a chauffeur. The vehicles have to be washed regularly and waxed. The tyres have to be regularly changed. All of this costs a fortune when considering we have more than 20 Ministers. But one of the benefits of Ministerial office is the provision of a vehicle and driver. You do not expect Ministers to be hurrying to call a special hire to get to work or to have to use the vehicle pool at their respective Ministries. You do not expect a Minister to be driven to work in a Toyota 212. Some of them have never sat in such a lowpriced vehicle. They may
DEM BOYS SEH
Anodda promise wha ain’t come true Yesterday dem boys sit down and think about all de promises people mek to dem and didn’t keep. Dem remember de elections promise de APNU-KFC mek and when dem check was like if dem promise gone wid de wind. This odda promise wasn’t an elections promise but was a promise that Cathy mek big and bold. Jagdeo had serious problems wid GTT. He try to tek away dem control of de landline because dem had it for too long and dem wasn’t servicing people telephone fast enough. Jagdeo think he was a big man and he put a Bill in Parliament. Dem boys seh that was de first Bill that
Jagdeo put down like if it hot. He didn’t even look at it again. When dem boys check, dem hear Uncle Sam tell Jagdeo that he better don’t put he hand pun GTT. Like a puppy, Jagdeo put he tail between he foot and lef de telephone company. That is when Cathy talk up fat. She announce how she gun break de monopoly this year. When she seh suh, dem boys believe she. Right away Digicel mek plans. It get careless wid de hustle it use to do through Suriname and de cable get pull. But because Cathy announce that de monopoly gun end this year, Digicel didn’t care. Now it shifting uncomfortable like when a big
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Kaieteur News
man sit down pun ants nest. De monopoly ain’t look like it going anywhere. Dem boys looking fuh Cathy to find out wha happen and dem can’t find she. De GTT people seh dem don’t know nutten bout any breaking of monopoly fuh de New Year. Now people wondering if dem should listen to any promise. Jagdeo did promise de Skeldon sugar factory would a solve all of GuySuCo needs. De factory barely mill 20 pounds of sugar but de amount of cane it use woulda produce 200 pounds. And that is only one promise. Talk half and beware of who come to you wid promise.
have to do so come 2020 and the electorate decides that enough is enough with the extravagance of the APNU+AFC. Most of the Ministers are today driving sports utility vehicles or SUVs as they are abbreviated. Most Ministers drive vehicles with engine cylinder capacities in excess of 4 litres. These vehicles cost a fortune even without the payment of duties. They are also ‘fuel guzzlers’ and have high maintenance costs. Why do Ministers need these luxurious vehicles when most of them can easily use a smaller sized sedan-type vehicle to get from home to work and from work to meetings and social engagements? Ministers need to travel in comfort but there is no need for such expensive vehicles costing tens of millions of
dollars. Smaller, comfortable and classy sedans can work just fine. Occasionally, Ministers will have to go out to the fields. Luxury SUVs are illsuited for going into the farmlands or venturing into the trails which lead into Guyana’s interior. For such trips, you need double door pickups which can better handle the terrain. Instead of spending $17M on a SUV for the Minister, a simple sedan with an engine cylinder capacity of less than 2 litres will do just fine with enough money being left back to purchase a heavy duty pickup for field trips. There is a lot of talk about a green economy, reducing fossil fuel emissions and conserving on energy. It makes a mockery about a green economy when Minis-
ters are using such huge vehicles to drive on perfect roads and, in most instances, for short distances. The government has begun to reduce its carbon footprint by installing solar energy in Government buildings. On the other hand, there is no attempt to reduce the amount of petrol used by switching to smaller, handier vehicles. The government should buy smaller vehicles for Ministers and have a fleet of pickups for when these Ministers have to undertake field work. This will save the Treasury a stinking sum each year and will set a good example for the public.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 12, 2018
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Parliament’s sadistic traffic regulation: How dictatorship grows A few months back in a conversation with Lincoln Lewis, we agreed that the APNU+AFC government was practising a type of politics, a type of governance that was hardly different from its predecessor, the PPP. Lincoln said that at least the regime is not like the PPP in that they do not arrest, jail or kill opponents. These were my words to Lincoln; “These are early days yet; when Jagdeo started out he didn’t jail and kill his critics.” After getting in power, the APNU+AFC power-holders began to show signs of hypocrisy, power intoxication
and bully-boy tactics that were so reminiscent of the reign of the Jagdeo/Ramotar cabals. Two early signs emblazoned the political landscape after the PPP lost power in May 2015. One was the almost secret salary hike for ministers and the second, which for me was a far greater dangerous harbinger of what was to come, was the colossal extension of the barriers around Parliament. Let’s describe what we have now and what existed under the presidency of Jagdeo and Ramotar. Some people in this government are making the PPP look like boy scouts when the PPP ruled.
In 2012, WPA’s Member of Parliament, Desmond Trotman, tabled a motion in the House to have the barriers around Parliament, when it is in session, removed. The opposition had a majority in the House so the motion was carried. At that time the barriers were erected from Hadfield Street to Croal Street crisscrossing Brickdam on High Street. Believe it or leave it. This was the area that the cordons could have been found. Just two corners – Hadfield Street to Brickdam, Brickdam to Croal Street. And important to note; police allowed traffic to flow
through the barriers. Today, blocks after blocks are cordoned off stretching so far that you will not believe it if you haven’t seen it. We will come to that below. After the APNU+AFC got into power, Trotman lost his seat in Parliament. Since July 2015 when the barriers were vastly extended, Trotman said not a word even though for three years he appeared each week on the WPA’s television programme named “Walter Rodney Groundings.” Trotman’s own government has contemptuously tossed aside his successful 2012 motion in the House but Trotman never
ever uttered one word about this depravity. This same Trotman is now a GECOM Commissioner. Speaking for myself, if he couldn’t say even one word about the horror show that goes on downtown when Parliament is in session, then I have no confidence in this man to be a principled commissioner. This is my opinion. Today the metal frames stretch from Princes Street to the Stabroek Square on Lombard Street. And from Regent Street on the Avenue of the Republic way down to Princes Street at the confluence with Smyth Street. It is not only ugly paranoia that is at work here but sadistic mistreatment of thousands of honest citizens who use that area to get to their place of employment, homes and to other places like the hospitals, the stores , the courts etc. To see the confusion when Parliament is in session is to see how dictatorship can grow from a spark into an all engulfing flame. The barriers are one of the worst nightmares you can ever imagine in a traffic situation. To the east, the back-up reaches the Bourda Market areas. To the north, the traffic congestion extends way beyond Lamaha and Main Streets. To the south, the back-up affects the flow of traffic way beyond Charlestown touching Sussex Street in Albouystown. It is so easy to imagine the situation because you are
Frederick Kissoon talking about the bowels of the city where hundreds and hundreds of vehicles have to take another route. To get to alternative routes, the traffic slows down to an extremely horrible rate so the back-up has to be incredibly long. Not one organization has come out against this manifestation of sadistic edicts. All types, all categories of people are affected but not one soul is prepared to tell those people responsible for the traffic terror that they are clowns unfit to rule a country in the 21st century. And who are these people that are responsible for this affair? Well, the police carry out the instructions. The instructions come from those in Parliament. And who are these people that we call parliamentarians? These are the people that on each occasion, the Speaker urges them to behave themselves and conduct themselves with decorum. Not one school child in a survey would say he/she respects our parliamentarians after they see how they conduct themselves inside the House. But I guess dictatorship grows when a nation becomes sheep.
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
GWI moving to safeguard reliable groundwater sources Plans are in motion for the development of a model that will guide the Guyana Water Incorporated [GWI] in its quest to better understand the physical characteristics of groundwater resource on the coast. Moreover, GWI has announced its collaboration, in this regard, with Deltares, an applied research institute in water and sub-surface environment from the Netherlands. This development comes even as the water company moves to implement measures to safeguard its groundwater sources. Groundwater represents more than 90 percent of the water supply on the coast and 70 percent countrywide. Moreover, groundwater, according to GWI, is the most reliable source of potable water for public use. In recognition of the importance of groundwater, the water company is moving to sustain its underground water source so as to ensure a continuous supply to citizens. GWI, in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is pursuing actions to prepare and implement a groundwater management plan. A move in this direction will be facilitated under the Water Supply and Sanitation Infrastructure Programme (SSIIP). This plan, according to information contained in a GWI advertisement published in this newspaper this past weekend, is aimed at assessing the sustainability of the groundwater supply in Guyana. The project, GWI noted, would therefore entail conducting geophysical logging of coastal wells in Regions Two, Three, Four Five, Six and 10 which would have seen customers within the project areas experiencing disruptions to their water supply for an average of five hours. A number of West Bank Demerara areas, including Patentia, Vive-La-Force, Free and Easy, Good Intent, Wales and Sisters Village, were scheduled to experience the disruption even as the project takes shape. But this is not the first time that the water company has sought to do such an assessment. While the cost of the current project was not revealed, back in 2009, GWI, along with the World Wildlife Fund [WWF], inked a $7.1 M agreement for a groundwater assessment. The agreement then was intended to facilitate preliminary assessment of a
section of the coastal aquifers within the Demerara Region. Another partner in the initiative then which was expected to run for an eightmonth period was the University of Guyana’s Faculty of Technology. It was revealed that the project was geared at assessing the physical properties of the groundwater reservoirs and ground water itself which would have helped in the formulation of a database. The expectation too was that the information within the database will increase GWI’s capacity to better understand changes occurring in the reservoirs and help to better manage the use of groundwater. While it is not clear whether a database was in fact put in place and is being accessed by GWI, it was proposed that the assessment would have entailed field testing to investigate key properties of the aquifers, such as the storage capacity and the ability of the aquifer to release water. As part of that project too, the water quality was also to be tested to assess the levels of heavy metals, chlorides and other substances, to give some insight into occurrence of contamination of the water supply. Through the partnership effort it was expected that there would have been a better understanding of sustainability of groundwater reservoirs and identify any threats to the aquifers functioning as a source of safe water for the public in the longer term. The results of the study, it was promised, would have provided invaluable information for water management, the promotion of sustainable use of the underground water and provide guidance for further comprehensive studies. The WWF had stated its commitment then, too, to conserve and protect natural resources and had 10 years prior been providing technical and financial support to various agencies engaged in natural resources management in Guyana. The grant agreement, moreover, had provided an opportunity for WWF to directly promote conservation of natural resources and also contribute to maintaining a healthy water supply which is a vital resource. It is just this objective that is being sought again as GWI looks to once again sustain suitable ground water source for the people of this nation.
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
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House approves Natural Resources’ $1.44B budget - Forest Inventory Study 30% complete - Increased monitoring to enforce regulations and mercury usage for 2019 The Ministry of Natural Resources’ 2019 budgetary allocation of $1.4Bilion was approved by the National Assembly yesterday afternoon. The ministry was allocated $873Million for current expenditure and $573Million for capital expenditure. These are divided as follows: Policy Development and Administration current expenditure $34Million and capital expenditure $437Million; Management current expenditure $526Million and capital expenditure $135M. A question was posed about the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative’s (EITI) provisions to monitor resources and conduct a reconciliation report via the UK-based company, Moore and Stephens. Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, on behalf of Minister Raphael Trotman, explained that the
report, due next year, is being done at a cost of $29Million over an 18-month duration. The increase of security from $13Million to $19Million was noted by the opposition. The minister explained that the ministry is footing the additional $7Million for security services at a recently occupied Lot 55 Main Street property. The building is being rented at a cost of $20.16Million annually. The minister also explained that the ‘Local Travel and Subsistence’ amount which doubles in 2019 to $10Million is due to increased monitoring of hinterland locations for mercury usage and enforcement. The $50Million allocated for the Forest Inventory Study was revised to $35Million, under (capital expenditure). When asked by the Opposition what percentage of the study was completed, Minister Broomes said the funds will be used to purchase
Female vendor nearly kills man over $600 eddo leaf An argument over $600 worth of eddo leaf has left a Bourda Market vendor nursing a stab wound in the region of his chest and another vendor facing an attempted murder charge. Thirty-four-year-old Jewey Ferguson, of 38 Victoria, East Coast Demerara, appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where an attempted murder charge was read to her. The allegation against Ferguson stated that on December 2, last, at Bourda, Georgetown, with intent to commit murder she wounded Nigel George. She was not required to plead to the indictable charge after it was read to her by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the court that both parties are known to each other since they both sell at the Bourda Market. Prosecutor Mansfield told the court that the woman gave George 10 packs of eddeo leaf to sell and return the proceeds — $600 to her. However, George failed to hand over the money to the woman when she requested it. The Prosecutor went on to tell the court that on the day in question, Ferguson went to George’s stall where
CHARGED: Jewey Ferguson he sells and requested that he hand over the money. An argument then ensued between the two and the woman pulled out a knife and stabbed George in the region of his chest. An injured George was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was admitted and underwent surgery. George who was present in court stated that he received a punctured lung due to the stab he received and is asking the court for justice. However, Prosecutor Mansfield had no objection Continued on page 14
a vehicle, an ATV, computer systems, GPS Software and other items. It was further explained to the House that 30 percent of the project was completed with 100 percent of 2018’s phase complete. Minister Broomes stated that the second phase of FCIS will entail the allocation of $244Million (current
expenditure) for zoning of flora and fauna, among other activities. It will be managed by the Guyana Forestry Commission, providing critical information to foresters and other stakeholders. A commitment was also given by the minister to provide information as requested.
Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
Over 1,000 gain from income generating projects …unemployment rate at 12% Just over 1,000 citizens are now benefitting from the Ministry of Social Protection’s Sustainable Livelihood Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) programme. This is according to the Minister of the said ministry, Amna Ally. The programme, created within the pretext of generating income for citizens through self-reliance projects, and skill acquisition, has targeted 227 households in just this year. A total of 1,264 persons have been impacted by the ministry’s programme. Thirty-three projects have been done thus for the year; Guyana’s unemployment rate, however, stands at 12 percent. Given that Guyana has often received opposition from many young persons in terms of job availability, the SLED programme is focused on providing incomegenerating opportunities for the country’s citizens. Projects within SLED would include aspects such as poultry rearing, garment construction and other skill based entrepreneurial aspects. SLED is expected to increase employment on the community-based level. Persons have benefited in areas such as livestock, apiculture, Information and
Communications Technology (ICT) and tourism. In recognition of the importance of micro and medium enterprises, transferring skills to individuals is expected to boost the country’s economy. Micro and medium enterprises are known to reduce poverty levels by creating jobs for a country’s growing economy. According to global reports, the continuous lack of decent job opportunities may stymie the growth of a country’s economy. In fact, the report pegged inclusivity and increased economic opportunities as a major determining factor in the success of a country’s economy. Moreover, the initiative’s aim is to cater to the growing labour force by providing job opportunities and thus boosting the economy. $250 million has been allocated to the programme for 2019. Guyana’s unemployment p e r c e n t a g e disproportionately comprises of women aged 15 to 24 years, with young people being a vast majority. Projects within the programme slated for 2019 are expected to greatly affect the young demographic, economically in Guyana.
Female vendor nearly kills... From page 13 to bail being granted to Ferguson but asked that conditions be attached. The Magistrate after listening to the Prosecutor released Ferguson on $250,000 bail. She was also instructed to report every Friday to the Alberttown Police Station. Magistrate McLennan also placed Ferguson on a bond to keep the peace until the hearing and determination of the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) of the matter in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Ferguson was instructed to make her next court appearance on January 3.
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
Stephen Vieira tells court, “I have no knowledge of any drug or narcotics being placed in any wood” Telling his side of the story in a $550M drug bust yesterday, super biker Stephen Vieira, denied being part of any plot or arrangement to pack cocaine in lumber to be exported. In fact, during an unsworn testimony Vieira told the court, “I have no knowledge of any drug or narcotics being placed in any wood. I have absolutely no knowledge of any plan between Hakim Mohamed and Narine Lall to export cocaine in lumber.” Vieira of Middle Street, South Cummingsburg was at the time defending a charge of aiding the trafficking of cocaine brought against him by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU). Vieira along with Nazim Gafoor and his father Tazim Gafoor, both of Menzies Street, Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara and former Customs Officer Sherwayne De Abreu of Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, are jointly charged.
It is alleged that between March 1 and May 2, 2017 at a sawmill belonging to Narine Lall located at Lookout, East Bank Essequibo, they aided Hakim Mohamed to traffic 84.986 kilograms of cocaine. They have each denied the charge and are out on $5M High Court bail each. The four defendants are being represented by Attorneys-at-Law Latchmie Rahamat, Everston LammySingh, Glenn Hanoman, Latchmie Rahamat and Nigel Hughes respectively. Following the closure of the prosecution’s case, led by Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor Konyo Sandiford, no-case submissions were laid over to the court by lawyers for the four defendants. After careful revision of the evidence, Magistrate Liverpool ruled that prima facie evidence was led against the four men, and that the court will call upon each of them to lead a defence. Added to what was previously dis-
CHARGED: Sherwayne De Abreu, Stephen Vieira, Nazim Gafoor and Tazim Gafoor closed, Vieira said that he was hired by Lall to assist with preparing paperwork for the export of lumber. The defendant made it clear that his arrangement with Lall had nothing to do with narcotics. According to Vieira, “I would have never accepted employment if this was told to me. I must state that all paperwork was never filled out by me but by Hakim Mohamed.” He said that he never packed or prepared any wood
for shipment. He stated that he only showed up at the wharf with the inspector. Vieira explained, “Hakim Mohamed brought the wood and it was inspected in my presence and nothing was found in them.”According to the defendant, he was told that the other truck had a mechanical problem which resulted in the inspection being called off. In concluding, Vieira said, “I left and I went home. I don’t know where the second wood was coming from. I
don’t know who packed it. The only wood I saw that day was the one Hakim Mohamed brought to the wharf and it was inspected in my presence.” CANU is contending that its ranks descended on the front of the premises of Mohamed and searched a truck laden with several pallets of 1×6 dressed lumber boards prepared for export. Several pieces of boards were drilled randomly by the ranks and the cocaine was unearthed.The lumber was
packed at a sawmill located at Lookout, East Bank Essequibo belonging to Lall to be transported to a wharf in Georgetown and then to be shipped to United States of America, CANU stated. CANU in a statement said that Vieira was listed on the shipping documents as a representative of the shipper, Lall.The matter continues this morning before Magistrate Rushelle Liverpool at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court. The other defendants are expected to lead their defence.
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
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FOR SALE Generac Pressure Wash for sale 3100 PSI. Tel#654-5267/ 652-2244/220-4203 One Ford explore sportage jeep, fully loaded $3.7M. Call# 684-4636/676-4810 Four (4) Pure breed German Shepherd (Black & Tan) Seven (7) weeks old. Tel#650-9998/ 626-0953 Used zinc sheets in good condition, Approximately 30 sheets, 26 ft length each. Contact Nos: 225-4106/6414952
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Salon for rental, New Market St, Georgetown, also hair/ nails/barber/massage. Makeup stations for rental #638-1106 1 Apt for rent- Bottom flat for rent, for business. Contact Radica Kassim #264-2639 Lot 7-8 Plantain Walk WBD
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Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park $60,000 #641-3318
Farm (East Bank) $3.2M Eccles $7M Herstelling $4M & $5M Schnoord $2.8M Dairy $1.6M & $2.6M Tel#656-0701/6481635
Defence in murder conviction points to discrepancies in testimonies
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VACANCY
Arguments of discrepancies and inconsistencies were raised when the Court of Appeal commenced hearing the case of the State vs Lloyd Rampersaud who was convicted and sentenced to 70 years imprisonment for the February 2009 murder of Munilall Mangru. Based on reports, Mangru, 42, a grass cutter, was found dead under a bridge linking Mon Repos and Triumph, East Coast Demerara. It is alleged that he was beaten and left to die. Being dissatisfied with the conviction and sentence handed down by Justice Navindra Singh in 2013, Rampersaud, through his Attorney-at-Law George Thomas, appealed same. In the grounds of appeal, Thomas argued (i) That the Learned Trial Judge erred in law in directing the jury on joint enterprise, (ii) That the learned Trial Judge erred in law on parties to offences and their liability, (iii) That the learned Trial Judge erred in law in admitting the caution statement of the Appellant (Rampersaud) and (iv) that the sentence was unduly severe. On Monday, The Court of Appeal commenced hearing arguments in the case during which Thomas outlined the inconsistencies and discrepancies in the evidence of two State witnesses casting doubt on his client’s conviction. Rampersaud and his brother were jointly charged with the murder of Munilall which occurred between February 22 and February 24, 2009 in the county of Demerara. However, only Rampersaud was convicted; his brother was acquitted by the jury. In his submission, Thomas argued that he
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MURDERED: Munilall Mangru
CONVICTED KILLER: Lloyd Rampersaud observed major inconsistencies in the evidence of a man called ‘Towley’, who was also charged but had the matter discontinued against him by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and that of the sister of the deceased. Supporting his argument, Thomas said that ‘Towley’ testified that the incident occurred on February 21, 2009, though the murdered man’s sister testified to seeing her brother looking normal the next day. According to the lawyer, the dead man’s sister only testified to seeing her brother with marks of violence to his face and other parts of his body on February 24, 2009. In this regard, Thomas argued that the trial judge failed to properly direct the jurors on how to consider this evidence. Thomas contended that from the time ‘Towley’ said the incident occurred to the time Munilall was seen (the next day) by his sister, there is a possibility that Munilall could have been injured by someone else. As such, Thomas urged that his client should not be held liable for the fatal injuries that were inflicted on Mangru. Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Yonette CummingsEdwards, who is hearing the appeal together with Justices of Appeal Dawn Gregory and Continued on page 27
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Linden man found floating in Hopetown trench A man who once resided at Linden Upper Demerara and was reportedly now living at Hopetown, West Coast Berbice, was on Sunday morning found floating in a trench at Hopetown West Coast Berbice. The man, Glixmond Anthony Rogers, called “Tony” 61 of Block 22 Wismar, Linden, and Hopetown, West Coast Berbice, lived at Hopetown with his wife and a step daughter. According to his wife, Rogers left home around 05:45hrs to go to one in the side trench. Rogers leaves to mourn his wife, seven children and four foster children. He was the eldest of 18. The family suspects foul play and is calling on the authorities to investigate the matter fully. Relatives say when the body was found it had some gash on the head. A relative stated that it looked like he was hit on the head and thrown overboard or a vehicle struck him and threw him in the trench.
DEAD: Glixmond Anthony Rogers They are eagerly waiting on the post Mortem examination to assert if he was murdered or died by drowning. Rogers was described as a well-known individual in the village who did carpentry, masonry and joiner work. Rogers was the eldest brother of former national boxing champion and now national coach Earlan “Pocket Rocket” Rogers His body was retrieved and is at the Bailey Funeral Parlour No4 village. The police are investigating.
The body of Rogers in the Hopetown trench.
Defence in murder... From page 26 Rishi Persaud, agreed that Thomas pointed to some “major discrepancies.” Senior State Counsel Teshanna Lake contended that Rampersaud admitted to his role in a caution statements that were admitted into evidence by the trial judge. “Me lash he with a piece of wood on he face and me see he tongue come out. Towley then cuff he up pon he face and me then tek out all he money,” Lake said Rampersaud admitted in his caution statement Lake said that during the trial a pathologist testified that the injuries Rampersaud sustained were consistent with those Rampersaud said he inflicted on him. The Prosecutor maintained that Munilall was injured on February 21, 2009, noting that the Pathologist explained that a normal person receiving injuries such as those inflicted on Mangru would have died within four minutes. But the Chancellor questioned what if Munilall was abnormal. Nevertheless, Thomas is asking for the conviction and sentence to be set aside and/or reversed. The Court of Appeal has reserved its ruling in this matter. Notices for decision will be sent to the parties.
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Govt. should review whether $5M rent paid by GRA is fair to NIS or sell building - Auditors By Abena RockcliffeCampbell
The National Insurance Scheme (NIS) is still reeling from a number of bad investments it made under the rule of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic administration. In fact, if the scheme were to count its losses from just one of those investments—in CLICO Guyana—that count would go well beyond $7B. This is highlighted in the report of an audit ordered by the APNU+AFC government. The audit report has not been made public. However, this newspaper has been able to secure excerpts. There seems to be only a few viable options to help cushion the blow NIS has taken. These options were also outlined in the report. The report states that the balance owed to NIS by CLICO Guyana, according to the Scheme’s financial statements, is $5,148,710,367 at December 32, 2014. On February 26, 2009, in response to a petition by the Commissioner of Insurance, the High Court of Guyana issued an order placing CLICO (Guyana) under
juridical management pursuant to the provision of the Insurance Act 1998, until further order of the Court. Auditors further noted that on March 2009, Ms. Doreen Nelson, General Manager (AG) wrote to Ms. Maria Van Bleek, Judical Manager of CLICO Guyana and Commissioner of Insurance, requesting that priority be given to NIS to recover the value of its investment in CLICO which was $5,647,782,551 at the time. However, neither the former Commissioner nor the subsequent commissioner responded. It was reported that Ms. Nelson pointed out in the letter that the repayment of these investments is essential for the continuing operations of NIS as a viable entity. Further, auditors pointed out that subsequently, the Ninth Parliament of Guyana, through Resolution No.82 passed on March 12, 2009, reflects that the Government will undertake to take all possible actions to secure the investments made in CLICO (Guyana) by the NIS on behalf its contributors and beneficiaries to prevent any consequential loss in benefits
to them. However, that resolution, the auditors noted, did not address key issues such as the repayment period, the method of repayment, returns on the investments from the time CLICO went under liquidation, etc. The Scheme has not received any return on the investment since 2009. The funds were invested to earn returns at a rate of 6.25 %per annum. Auditors noted that at this rate, the scheme is losing $321,794,000 annually and to date, the accumulate loss is $1,930,766, or over $2B if the unpaid interest is included with the principles when computing interest. Auditors noted that in 2011, the title to a property owned by CLICO deemed to be valued at $600M was transferred to NIS. The property used to be the head office of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) on Camp Street, Georgetown, now being rented by the Guyana Revenue Authority from the scheme for $5M per month. Auditors said that NIS should seek the government’s commitment to honour its undertaking in
GRA Headquarters
accordance with Resolution No82. “Alternatively, they can pay the scheme the interest consistent with the original investment until the amount is repaid.” Also, Auditors recommended that a realty valuator should be engaged to determine whether the former GuySuCo property is worth the $600M it transferred to the scheme in view of the ongoing disquiet amongst employees about the fungus in the building.
SARA official refutes claim of collecting multi-million dollar salaries Deputy Director of the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA), Aubrey Heath-Retmeyer, has refuted claims publicised by certain sections of the media that ‘SARA Director and assistant take home multimillion-dollar salaries. The article alleged that the Director Dr. Clive Thomas and Deputy Director HeathRetmeyer of the agency receive monthly salaries of $4.7M and $3.3M, respectively. However, in his response yesterday Heath-Retmeyer noted, “Senior ministers do not even make $4M per month. I couldn’t see how someone could think that the Director of SARA and his assistant could be making $4M and $3M respectively,” he reasoned. Heath-Retmeyer clarified that Director, Dr. Clive Thomas’ monthly salary with allowances totals $1,080,000. He further clarified his salary as Deputy Director is $780,000 per month with allowances. The Deputy chided the publication noting that it was crafted without accurately reading the charts presented in the Committee of Supply of the National Assembly during the Consideration of
SARA Director, Dr. Clive Thomas
Deputy Director of SARA, Aubrey Heath-Retmyer
the Budget 2019 Estimates of expenditure falling under the Ministry of Legal Affairs, on Monday. He explained that the figures quoted in the news article are reflective of the emoluments when gratuity, vacation and other allowances are included and not the monthly salary as the article falsely claims. The salaries of the SARA officials came to light after former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, raised questions over a $285 million allocation under line item 6321, ‘subsidies and contributions to local organisations’ for the
Ministry of Legal Affairs. The article quoted Attorney General Basil Williams explaining was earmarked for SARA. Williams was further quoted explaining that the breakdown of spending, — $225 million would be spent on wages and salaries for SARA employees in just one year. Just a few weeks ago, SARA faced criticism for being in apparent breach of the law which says that it must have tabled in the National Assembly, its annual plan and Code of Practice. In its comprehensive review of budget 2019, Ram
and McRae Chartered Accountants firm pointed out that SARA is budgeted to receive $285 million, an increase of $25 million or 9.6%, from the $260 million it received in 2018. Considering the substantial funds it is about to receive, Ram and McRae believes that the Agency should at least adhere to its reporting requirements. “Like many other public bodies, SARA appears to have breached the law in respect of the duty to have its annual plan tabled in the National Assembly and the prerequisite steps to lay a Code of Practice and to have its report filed in the National Assembly.” The firm is of the view that the Agency has clearly failed to live up to the hype and fanfare, which accompanied its establishment when it was expected to recover several billions of dollars of state assets each year. It noted in its report that the Government may wish to consider scrapping the Agency altogether and assigning its functions and responsibilities to the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) of the Guyana Police Force. SARA has declined to comment on the report.
There was also a recommendation to review the rent paid to determine whether it is fair considering the size and location of the building. The option to sell the building—if the scheme can recover more than the transfer
price and the rent cannot be increased—was also presented. Auditors also recommended that it be determined whether the Commissioner of Insurance acted in the best interest of investors in particular the scheme.
Little answers over non-appointment of GPL’s board - UN offices to be housed in Eddy Grant’s Kingston property The Ministry of Public Infrastructure came under fire for the non-existence of a Board of Directors for the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL). Since February, there has not been a board. The last Chairman, Robert Badal, opted not to return, saying he wanted to concentrate in a major expansion of the Pegasus Hotel, which he owns. Since then, reportedly the Cabinet has rejected names of new board members. Yesterday, Opposition members wanted to know how GPL was making key decision, including for major, multi-million contracts. Currently, a number of major projects including a $4B-plus smart meter and new transmission lines, involving a Chinese contractor, are underway. Yesterday, during the considerations of the estimates for the MPI, Opposition parliamentarian, Juan Edghill, questioned a $3.6B allocation for what is known as a Power Utility Upgrade Project (PUUP). The MP also wanted to know how GPL is administering the procurement. According to Minister
David Patterson, it is the Project Execution Unit which is making decision for the project. The ministry would not be drawn into naming the members of the board and instead pointed out that he is there to talk about the estimations relating to the line item for the expenditure. Another Opposition member, Irfaan Ali, asked the minister if he was exercising authority in the absence of a board. However, Patterson insisted that it was the PEU that was running the project. Opposition MP, Gail Teixeira, was also curious whether the PEU was making policies in place of the board. With billions of dollars handled, GPL’s operations have come under fire with outages continuing despite billions of dollars plugged into remedial projects. GPL has been looking at a number of issues, including changing transmission lines, transformers and even building sub-stations to improve efficiency. Meanwhile, Ali also raised questions about a $190Mplus allocation for rental of buildings. It was disclosed that the Continued on page 29
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Terminated Guyana Goldfield chairman developing new mining operation in Cuyuni Former Executive Chairman and board member of the Guyana Goldfields, Patrick Sheridan, who was terminated from the former position in July less than two weeks after he was appointed, is back working on a number of projects right in the Cuyuni. Guyana Goldfields is the country’s biggest gold mining operations, with the Canadian-owned company heading into the first underground mining. Sheridan is now the executive chairman and CEO of Sandy Lake Gold, who is reportedly steering the Red Lake-focused junior towards several strategic acquisitions in Guyana, according to a report in the Northern Miner. Sheridan has been credited with the discovery, financing and development of the Aurora gold mine in a remote part of Guyana’s rain forest, about 170 km southwest of the capital of Georgetown. Guyana Goldfields put the mine into commercial production in January 2016. Sandy Lake Gold recently signed a non-binding letter of intent (LOI) to acquire a 100% stake in a suite of exploration properties in the far south-
west of Guyana’s Cuyuni Basin, which hosts the Aurora mine and numerous artisanal mine workings. The properties under the LOI include the historic Aremu mine and the Peters mine concessions, two of Guyana’s four historic producing mines.Sheridan, who was terminated as Guyana Goldfields’ executive chairman at the end of July and resigned his seat on the board at the end of October, the report said, declined to comment on Sandy Lake Gold’s letter of intent in Guyana until after the company receives permission from the TSX Venture Exchange and shareholders for the Aremu transaction. In a press release on November 22, Sheridan said the acquisition of “historic and advanced stage properties immediately launches Sandy Lake Gold into the forefront of mineral exploration in Guyana,” and noted that Aremu and the Peters mine “share similar geological settings and history as the Omai mine (3.7 million ounces produced) and the Aurora gold mine.” Both properties “offer an outstanding opportunity for the discovery and develop-
ment of high-grade vein type, as well as open-pittable disseminated gold deposits,” Sheridan continued. The company also said that it would continue to assess “other properties of merit in the Cuyuni Basin with the intention of making additional acquisitions.” The Aremu mine produced 6,488 ounces of gold from 14,632 tons of mineralized material at an average head grade of 0.44 ounce gold per ton between 1906 and 1911. Previous owners sunk a vertical shaft to 170 feet (52 metres) and there has been 1200 feet (366 metres) of horizontal drifting at the -82 foot (25 metre) and -160 foot (49 metre) levels.The mine consisted of veins and workings including the Aremu Quartz Reef, Power House, Scotland and the Donicker veins—all of which were situated along a 16,000-foot (4,877 metre) east-west trend. The Peters Mine produced over 40,000 ounces of gold between 1905 and 1909, with mill head grades exceeding over one ounce per ton. The mine was developed to 91 metres below surface with the majority of production above 61 metres and accord-
Huawei CFO facing extradition to US released on $10 million bail Vancouver, Canada (CNN Business) The chief financial officer of Chinese tech giant Huawei has been released on a $10 million bail, a judge in Canada ruled yesterday. Meng Wanzhou faces extradition to the United States, which has accused her of helping Huawei dodge sanctions on Iran. She was arrested December 1 in Canada during a layover at Vancouver International Airport. As a condition of her release, Meng has agreed to surrender her passports and live in one of her homes in Vancouver. She will also pay for a 24-7 security detail and wear a GPS ankle bracelet. Yesterday’s decision came three days into a hearing for Meng, who is a prominent executive at one of the world’s biggest makers of smartphones and networking equipment. Meng’s attorney, David Martin, argued that she should be released on bail while she waits for an extradition hearing because of health concerns. Meng has severe hypertension, for which she was hospitalized after her arrest. At issue in court was whether Meng posed a flight risk. Martin said she did not, since her ties to Vancouver go
back 15 years and she has two homes in the area. Leaving Canada would also embarrass her personally, and would h u m i l i a t e h e r f a t h e r, Huawei and China itself, Martin said. Yesterday’s decision could help ease tensions between Washington and Beijing as the two sides try to negotiate an end to their bruising trade war. Her arrest had been met with consternation from Chinese officials. The Chinese Foreign Ministry said over the weekend that it had summoned both US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad and Canadian Ambassador to China John McCallum to address Meng’s detention, which it described as “lawless, reasonless and ruth-
less.” Meng, 46, is the daughter of Huawei’s founder. In addition to her role as CFO, she serves as deputy chairperson of the company’s board. The United States alleges that Meng helped Huawei get around US sanctions on Iran by telling financial institutions such as HSBC that a Huawei subsidiary, Skycom, was a separate and unaffiliated company. The US Justice Department has declined to comment on the case. Meng faces “serious charges of fraud involving millions of dollars” in the United States, according to the affidavit of a Canadian law enforcement official. She could receive substantial jail time if convicted, the statement said.
Little answers over non-appointment of... From page 11 amount was set aside for a rental next year of Duke Street property belonging to singer, Eddy Grant. The property, located south of the US embassy, says Minister Patterson, will house all the United Nation offices, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation, UNICEF, UNDP, PAHO, UNAIDS and IOM with more than 200 staffers expected to be there. According to Patterson, UN security officials came down to inspect the premises and he is convinced that it is a good deal.
ing to Sandy Lake Gold, was “the most developed and highest grade deposit in Guyana” before the Omai mine was built in 1993. The Geological Survey of Guyana completed geological mapping, sampling and diamond drilling at the Peters mine in the mid 1960s. The work was sponsored and funded by the United States Geological Survey and the United Nations. Guyana Goldfields acquired the project in the late 1990s and did limited drilling as operator; it optioned the property to WSR Gold Inc. The work focused on the area around the main shaft and returned historic (not compliant with NI 43-101) assays including 6.10 metres of 32.70 grams gold per tonne from 122 metres downhole in hole MS01; 5.20 metres of 13.87 grams gold from 125 metres in hole MS-07; 52.60 metres of 5.70 grams gold from 107 metres in MS-08; and 7.11 grams gold over 40 metres from 11 metres
Former Guyana Goldfield’s Executive Chairman, Patrick Sheridan in MS-18. Under the terms of the letter of intent, Sandy Lake would likely purchase a 100% interest in the various properties by issuing to the vendors 100 million common shares of the company. Sheridan has a significant interest in the vendors of the Guyanese properties, which
total about 25,888 acres (10,477 hectares). Over the last year Sandy Lake Gold has traded within a 52-week range of $0.04 and $0.125. At press time in Toronto it was trading at $0.085 per share. The junior has about 104 million shares for a market cap of about $8.86 million.
Russian nuclear-capable bomber aircraft fly to Venezuela, angering U.S. MOSCOW (Reuters) Two Russian strategic bomber aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons have landed in ally Venezuela, a show of support for Venezuela’s socialist government that has infuriated Washington. The TU-160 supersonic bombers, known as “White Swans” by Russian pilots, landed at Maiquetia airport near capital Caracas on Monday after covering more than 10,000 km (6,200 miles), the Russian and Venezuelan governments said. Their deployment came days after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, whose left-wing administration is the most significant U.S. foe in Latin America, held talks with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.As OPEC member Venezuela’s socialist-run economy implodes, Russia has become a key lender of last resort, investing in its oil industry and providing support to its military. Capable of carrying shortrange nuclear missiles, the planes can fly over 12,000 km (7,500 miles) without re-fuelling and have landed in Venezuela twice before in the last decade. “Russia’s government has sent bombers halfway around the world to Venezuela,” fumed U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Twitter. “The Russian and Venezuelan people should see this for what it is: two corrupt governments squandering public funds, and squelching
liberty and freedom while their people suffer.” ‘HIGHLY UNDIPLOMATIC’ The Kremlin yesterday rejected Pompeo’s criticism, saying it was “highly undiplomatic” and “completely inappropriate.” “As for the idea that we are squandering money, we do not agree. It’s not really appropriate for a country half of whose defense budget could feed the whole of Africa to be making such statements,” spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Russia’s Defence Ministry, which said the bombers had been accompanied by two other Russian military planes, did not say if the planes were carrying missiles, how long they would stay for, or what their mission was. Russia has used them in the past to flex its military muscles under the nose of the United States, delighting Venezuelan officials who have cast such flights as evidence it is able to defend itself, with allies’ help, from any attack. Maduro frequently invokes the possibility of a U.S.
invasion in the South American nation, a notion U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration denies. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza called Pompeo’s comments “not only disrespectful, but cynical,” highlighting the number of military bases the United States owns abroad. “It’s strange the U.S. government questions our right to cooperate on defense and security with other countries, when @realDonaldTrump publicly threatens us with a military invasion,” Arreaza tweeted, referring to Trump’s Twitter handle. Venezuela’s Information Ministry did not respond to a request for details on the bombers.Maduro said the talks with Putin in Moscow this month yielded Russian investment in Venezuela’s oil and gold sectors. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told his Venezuelan counterpart at the time that such long-range flights provided pilots with excellent experience and helped maintain the planes’ combat readiness.
Speeding drunk driver knocks... (From page 19) popular night spot in the town.The driver was imbibing and some women were in the car. The driver who claimed not to remember what occurred and denied hitting any one initially resisted arrest and police reinforcement had to be summoned. A breathalyzer test was conducted on him and he was fund to be way over the legal limit.Search of the vehicle unearthed a quantity of marijuana, a bottle of rum and a cutlass among other things.Saunders remains in custody and the vehicle has been detained. Investigations are continuing and the accused is expected to be slapped with several charges.
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CIA chief to brief House on Khashoggi as pressure mounts on Trump NBC, By Josh Lederman and Alex Moe WASHINGTON — CIA Director Gina Haspel will brief House leaders today about what U.S. intelligence knows about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, three people familiar with the briefing tell NBC News, amid growing questions about the Trump administration’s response to the killing and Jared Kushner’s relationship with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Haspel’s trip to Capitol Hill comes the week after her briefing about the intelligence with key senators, who emerged incensed and accused the Trump administration of downplaying the crown prince’s involvement. Despite Secretary of State Mike Pompeo having told lawmakers there was no “direct evidence” linking Prince Mohammed to the murder, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R.-S.C., said after hearing from Haspel that one would have to be “wilfully blind” to deny that he was “intimately involved.” But Trump’s aides aren’t the only ones working to influence the view in Congress about the crown prince’s role in Khashoggi’s murder in October in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul. Three Senate aides tell NBC News that the head of Turkish intelligence, Hakan Fidan, came to Washington last week and briefed a group of senators about Turkey’s Khashoggi investigation and other issues. The group included both Democrats and Republicans. It’s unclear whether the Turkish intelligence chief shared with senators the audiotape from inside the consulate or other raw intelligence. But since the Khashoggi killing, Turkey has strategically released its own information about what occurred in the consulate bit by bit — undercutting public assertions from Saudi Arabia, which claimed for weeks that Khashoggi left the consulate alive before being forced to admit he was killed there by a hit team sent from Riyadh. Ahead of Haspel’s trip, the House Intelligence Committee was briefed by members of the U.S. intelligence community on the Khashoggi killing, the first such briefing for all members of the committee, a congressional source with knowledge of the briefing said. House members will also hear from Pompeo and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Thursday about Khashoggi and Saudi Arabia, as well as the Saudiled war in Yemen, as lawmakers consider various legislation condemning Crown Prince Mohammed or limiting
U.S. support for the Yemen war. Strong bipartisan support for congressional moves to criticize Saudi Arabia comes as the Trump administration faces growing pressure to defend its continuing close relationship with the kingdom. In another indication of continued global outrage over the killing, Khashoggi is now being honored by Time Magazine as one of its People of the Year, the first time the magazine has chosen someone no longer alive. Kushner, the president’s son-in-law and senior adviser, has faced particular scrutiny for his close ties and frequent contact with Crown Prince Mohammed. Those private interactions have taken place outside the typical, formal channels of communication between the U.S. government and foreign leaders, illustrating Saudi Arabia’s persistent efforts to forge direct lines to President Donald Trump that began even before Trump was inaugurated. Kushner has maintained contact with Crown Prince Mohammed in the weeks since Khashoggi’s killing, a White House official tells NBC News, though the official declined to say how frequently they communicated or what they discussed. The New York Times has reported that the two communicate via WhatsApp, a messaging app popular in the Middle East. Kushner hasn’t been panicked or overly concerned about the Khashoggi situation, officials said, and has argued to Trump that while the murder was bad, it would be impractical to let it jeopardize the White House’s broader goals in the region. The U.S. is looking for support for Saudi Arabia for the ambitious Israeli-Palestinian peace plan that Kushner has developed and plans to roll out in the coming months. Saudi Arabia is also closely aligned with Trump’s campaign to increase pressure on Iran, a mutual foe. Suspicions on Capitol Hill that the White House is concealing Crown Prince Mohammed’s role in the killing stem in part from comments from Trump himself, who has repeatedly said the U.S. has no final conclusion about his involvement. Instead, Trump has emphasized that the prince has personally denied any knowledge or role. That characterization is at odds with the views of the CIA, who have determined that Crown Prince Mohammed was complicit in the killing, NBC News has reported.
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USOC failed to protect athletes from sex abuse: report (Reuters) - The United States Olympics Committee failed to protect athletes from the threat of sexual abuse, according to a report released on Monday that showed some top executives took no action as the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal was unfolding. The report, which was commissioned by the USOC and carried out by law firm Ropes & Gray, offered details on what it called the “inaction” of former chief executive Scott Blackmun and former chief of sport performance Alan Ashley. Nassar, who was a team doctor for USA Gymnastics, was sentenced to up to 300 years in prison in two different trials last winter after more
than 350 women testified about abuse at his hands, including Olympic champions Aly Raisman and Jordyn Wieber. According to the 233-page report, Blackmun and Ashley were made aware of allegations against Nassar by then-USA Gymnastics chief executive Steve Penny in July 2015 but neither shared the information with others in the organization. The report also said that dozens of girls and young women were abused during the year-long period between mid-2015 and September 2016 when the Nassar story broke. “The U.S. Olympic community failed the victims, survivors and their families, and we apologize again to everyone who has been harmed,” Susanne Lyons,
an USOC independent board member and the incoming board chair, said in a statement. Blackmun resigned in February for medical reasons.Ashley was fired on Monday after USOC Chief Executive Sarah Hirshland was made aware of the report. The report called Nassar’s ability to abuse athletes for nearly 30 years “a manifestation of the broader failures at USAG and the USOC to adopt appropriate child-protective policies and procedures to ensure a culture of safety for young athletes.” According to the report, which included interviews with more than 100 witnesses and had access to over 1.3 million documents, Nassar found an environment in elite gymnastics and Olympic sports that proved to be conducive to his criminal
Wednesday December 12, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A solid grounding is apt to be extremely important to you today, Aries. Hearts may be broken or won, depending on how well you play your cards. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Regardless of how much the storm seems to be raging out of control, you will be able to handle it, Taurus. Have confidence in your grounded nature. GEMINI(May 21–June 20) Hold on to your hat, Gemini, and be ready for some action. You're coming to a critical point in your emotional cycle when your heart feels heavy. CANCER (June 21–July 22) In a string of intense emotional dramas, the last thing you need is one more, Cancer. Unfortunately, it looks like you're going to get just that. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) There's a great deal of grounding energy in your world today, Leo, which might work to smother your fire. Whatever happens, don't let the embers burn out. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Take pressing matters to the hilt today, especially when it comes to romantic issues and emotional needs. You have all the data you need to make a valid point. You have a whole battalion of facts to back you up, so fire at will.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) As you try to express your opinions today, you may have the feeling that someone is kicking sand in your face. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your boat is likely to be rocked today, Scorpio, to the point where you and all of your belongings could go overboard. Be prepared to swim ashore. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Calm down and get centered, Sagittarius. This is an extremely sensual day that's likely to pique your emotions. You're apt to receive input from each one of your senses, so keep these channels open CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Today is your day to shine in every way. There's a concentration of energy in your favor, so act boldly and without hesitation. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Your heart and emotions are on the same page,,aquarius but they may not be on the page you want them to be. It could be that you're reminiscing about an event from the past. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Let your sensual, nurturing instincts shine through, Pisces. Rely on your sixth sense. If things start to get rough, remember that you have the ability to keep your cool.
designs.The USOC has already implemented reforms and initiatives, including instituting new leadership and stronger accountability measures. It is also seeking to revoke USA Gymnastics’ status as the national governing body for the sport. Hirshland, who took over as USOC chief executive in July, said in the statement the organization will use the report’s findings to do everything possible to prevent something similar from happening in the future.
Thirteen complete... From page 37 will become.”Butler, who was on his first international assignment as Instructor, said it has been a satisfying experience: “It has been a great success. I’ve taught football before but this is my first out of the country teaching through FIFA. I think it has been a great success and I look forward to more events and hopefully return to Guyana and see their knowledge and mine get better and we all grow and learn the game together.” The practical sessions were held on Friday and Saturday at the National Gymnasium.
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
BCB/RHTYSC Busta Champion of Champions 40-Overs Knock-out Tournament
RHT Gizmos & Gadgets, Albion CC, Young Warriors CC, Tucber Park advance to Semis The Berbice Cricket Board on Sunday last started its 28th Cricket Tournament for 2018 with the hosting of the first round of the RHTYSC/ Busta Champion of Champions Tournament. The 15th Edition of the popular and prestigious tournament
kicked off with four matches at the Port Mourant Area ‘H’, De Edward and Bush Lot Grounds in East and West Berbice. a) At the Area ‘H’ Ground: Rose Hall Canje won the toss and elected to bat first. They got off to a bad
start, when former National Under-19 fast bowler Sylus Tyndall dismissed Michael Campbelle for naught off the first ball of the innings. They never recovered and were bowled out for 90 from 22Overs as only Sasenarine Sukhu 22, Harold Singh 27 and Martin Singh offered any resistance to the bowling of Shawn Pereira 3 for 26, Junior Sinclair 3 for 22 and Kevin Sinclair 2 for 22. Kevin Sinclair returned to score a brutal 40 from 28 balls and together with former National player Eon Hooper 36 not out led Rose
Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets to an easy eight wicket victory. Isaiah Thorne and Michael Campbelle each took a wicket for Rose Hall Canje. b) At Bush Lot Ground: Albion Community Centre trashed West Berbice by seven wickets. West Berbice were bowled out for a meagre 112 in just 20-Overs as the Albion spin attack spun webs around them. Keith Fraser 34 and Rennison Mitchell 21 were the only resistance to David Latchaya 4 for 39 and Kevin Umroa 3 for 19. Albion then raced to 113 for 3 in 19-Overs with Kandasammy Surujnarine 47, Sharaz Ramcharran 43 and Latchaya 15 the main batters. c) At Port Mourant Ground: Young Warriors Cricket Club crushed the home team by 90 runs. Young Warriors rattled up 225 for 8 in 36-Overs. The match was
reduced by four overs due to moisture on the pitch. Alex Algoo 35, Mortimer Fraser 29, Ricardo Ramdehol 44 and Suresh Dhanai 25 were the lead batsmen. Loyydel Lewis 4 for 53 and Daniel Samaroo 2 for 39 were the wicket takers for Port Mourant Cricket Club. In response, Port Mourant Cricket Club were bowled for 130 as Ishwar Singh 3 for 12 and Jermaine Henry 2 for 30 bowled well. Daniel Samaroo, Doorsammy Mahadeo 18, Trishan Ramcharran 15 led the batsmen. d) At De Edward Ground: Tucber Park Cricket Club defeated Blairmont Community Centre by four wickets. Blairmont Community Centre made 141 all out in 37Overs. Kevin Jawahir 47, Javed Karim 26, Marvin Prashad 27 batted well for Blairmont as Devon Clements 4 for 26 and Nial Smith took 3
for 18 for Tucber Park. Tucber Park Cricket Club reached 142 for 6 from 31-Overs, with Clifton Lindie scoring a crucial top score of 40, while Garfield Benjamin 39 and Steve Deonarine 27 supported well. Shabeer Baksh and Seon Glasgow both took two wickets in a losing cause for Blairmont. In the Semifinals, Albion Community Centre would clash with Young Warriors Cricket Club at the Albion Ground on Saturday, while Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets would host Tucber Park Cricket Club at the Area ‘H’ Ground. The Berbice Cricket Board is planning to host the final before the festive season, once the weather permits. The tournament was first organised in 2004 and is sponsored by the Guyana Beverage Company under its Busta brand.
Wednesday December 12, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Golden Jaguar Welshman returns Thirteen complete GFF/FIFA-Facilitated a success in the coming Futsal Referees’ Workshop beweeks. to MLS with FC Cincinnati Basic football knowlCincinnati – FC Cincinnati has signed forward Emery Welshman ahead of the club’s debut season in Major League Soccer. Welshman will be returning to Major League Soccer for the first time since 2016, when he played for Real Salt Lake. As a Canadian, Welshman will occupy an international roster spot on Cincinnati’s 2019 MLS roster. ”This is a huge opportunity for me to move forward with a club that has ambition,” Welshman said. “When I signed with the club last year, I knew where they were heading, and I was excited to be part of that team. Now, to be part of an inaugural MLS squad, I’m very blessed. It’s very humbling. It’s a huge blessing for me and for my family and I’m very grateful.” Welshman originally signed with FC Cincinnati on Jan. 3, 2018. In his lone season with the Orange and Blue in the USL, the forward made 26 appearances, including 14 starts, scored four goals and added four assists. ”Emery is a player that makes everyone else around him better,” Koch said. “He’s a selfless player and a selfless person. He’s willing to do what the team needs him to do and I’m excited to see him showcase himself in MLS. Like several guys on the team, he’s had a taste and probably didn’t get the best
Emery Welshman chance in the league. Now he has a chance to embrace this opportunity.” The Mississauga, Ontario, native was one of four FC Cincinnati players to record at least four goals and four assists on the season. He scored his first FCC goal, the game-winning goal, in the club’s second match of 2018 at Indy Eleven on March 31. The forward also recorded a goal and an assist for the Orange and Blue on two separate occasions. Outside of MLS play, he also added a hat trick in FC Cincinnati’s U.S. Open Cup overtime win over Detroit City FC on May 16. Welshman’s professional career began in 2013 when he was drafted by Toronto FC in the first round, 16th overall, of the 2013 MLS SuperDraft after completing his final two collegiate seasons at Oregon State. In 2013, he made two appearances across all
competitions for TFC. Following the MLS season, he signed with Sigma FC of League1 Ontario, where he played for one season. In 2015, We l s h m a n s i g n e d w i t h Real Monarchs SLC of the USL, where he made 19 appearances and scored six goals. At the conclusion of the 2015 USL season, he signed with Real Salt Lake. While he didn’t make a first team appearance, We l s h m a n m a d e t h r e e appearances on loan with the Monarchs. In 2017, he signed with Puerto Rico FC of t h e N A S L . We l s h m a n made 22 appearances, including 13 starts, scored five goals and added three assists. Welshman has seven caps for Guyana, and has scored six goals since making his international debut in 2015. Most recently, he was c a l l e d u p f o r G u y a n a ’s CONCACAF Nations League Qualifiers against Turks and Caicos Islands in October and French Guiana in November. The forward notched a hat-trick in the Golden Jaguars’ 8-0 victory over Turks and Caicos Islands on Oct. 13. The next time Cincinnati takes the field, it will be as MLS’ 24th team in 2019 when the club debuts in the top professional league in the U.S and Canada.
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) wrapped up a five-day FIFA-facilitated Futsal Referees’ Workshop at the National Resource Centre on Sunday last with the presentation of certificates of participation. The workshop, which began on December 5, saw the participation of 13 match officials from Berbice, Linden, Georgetown, West Demerara and Essequibo engaged in theory and practical exercises. In giving brief remarks at the closing ceremony, President Wayne Forde said he was pleased that the referees have stayed the course and completed the programme especially in light of the upcoming yearend futsal tournament. He urged the referees to invest in continuous personal and professional development: “I would like to encourage everyone to continue to invest in your knowledge and growth as well as both your practice on the field and conduct of your person as you represent not only the referees but the Guyana Football fraternity.” ”The referees have gotten
much better for the duration of the course. Their knowledge has improved and they’re better suited to do the upcoming tournament,” FIFA Instructor Shane Butler said. “There’s still some work and practice to be done on the mechanics/techniques but I have no doubt that they will
edge is high but areas, which require additional work, include positioning, mechanics and signals, which outside of the book, they have not seen before. It will not be perfected overnight, it’s a gradual learning process and the more repetition is done, the better they (Continued on page 31)
Letter to the Sports Editor
Why is Linden treated like a stepchild Banks DIH Dear Sports Editor, The 6th edition of the UDFA’s Banks GT Beer year end football tournament kicked off before a massive crowd on Sunday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.Once again Banks DIH has subjected the UDFA to a down grade of the level of sponsorship as the people of Region 10 continue to consume record volumes of their product. Why is yearend football in Linden being slapped upside the head in this manner? Maybe it is time for the
UDFA’s executives to get some courage and start looking elsewhere for sponsorship. This tournament is a product which has been well supported by the football fans in Linden as they have continued to support the DIH products. Tournaments in Georgetown would love to have this level of fan support year after year. Don’t feel bad Banks everyone else seems to be treating Linden like a stepchild. Victor Wrong.
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
Hope career-best century levels series for Windies DHAKA, Bangladesh, CMC – Elegant Shai Hope struck a superb career-best hundred to headline a successful West Indies run chase, as the Caribbean side edged Bangladesh by four wickets in the second OneDay International, to level the three-match series here yesterday. Under pressure throughout the innings and losing partners, the 25-year-old showcased not only his class but maturity as he unfurled a high-quality unbeaten 146 off 144 balls, as the Windies overhauled a moderate target of 256 with two balls to spare at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. All told, he stroked 12 fours and three sixes, notching his second century in six one-day innings and the joint second-highest individual score for West Indies in a successful ODI chase. Hope enjoyed little by way of support as veteran righthander Marlon Samuels chipped in with 27 and lefthander Darren Bravo got 26, but no other batsman passed 20. However, Hope found a cool head in 20-year-old Keemo Paul, with whom he fashioned a pivotal unbroken, 71-run, seventh wicket stand which hauled the Windies over the line. Paul spent 31 balls at the crease for his 18, and it was he who struck the winning runs when he pulled off-spinner Mahmudullah to deep mid-wicket for a couple. Bangladesh had earlier stuttered to 255 for seven off their 50 overs with top-ranked all-rounder Shakib-al-Hasan top-scoring with 65 and Mushfiqur Rahim (62) and Tamim Iqbal (50) also punching half-centuries. Fast bowler Oshane Thomas, playing only his fourth ODI, finished with three for 54.
Keemo Paul and Roston Chase shared a good stand, Bangladesh v West Indies, 1st ODI, Dhaka, December 9, 2018 © AFP West Indies, who lost Sunday’s opener by five wickets, will now travel to Sylhet for the series finale at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Friday. Opting to bowl, West Indies tasted early success when Thomas had Imrul Kayes taken behind by Hope in the fourth over without scoring with the score on 14, after opener Liton Das had retired hurt in the second over. Bangladesh then assumed control of the game as Tamim and Mushfiqur put on 111 for the second wicket which kept the hosts ticking along at over five runs an over. The left-handed Tamim struck four fours and a six off 63 deliveries while Mushfiqur counted five fours in a patient 80-ball knock. They fell within 20 balls of each other with seven runs added, Tamim holing out to mid-wicket off leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo and Mushfiqur edging a cut behind off Thomas. Shakib then rode his luck
in a stroke-filled innings, putting on 61 for the fourth wicket with Mahmudullah whose 30 came from 51 balls and included three fours. The left-handed Shakib struck six fours and a six in a 62-ball innings, providing crucial momentum early in last power-play. On 46, he tugged Thomas to captain Rovman Powell at mid-wicket in the 45th over, only to be reprieved by a no-ball. He cleared mid-wicket the resulting free hit to raise his 40th half-century in ODIs, before becoming the last batsman out in the 48th over, bowled by seamer Kemar Roach.In reply, West Indies were pegged back as early as the second over when lefthander Chandrapaul Hemraj played down the wrong line to off-spinner Mehidy Hasan and was lbw for three with five runs on the board. However, Hope then anchored a couple of key partnerships to get the Windies’ noses in front, putting on 65 with Bravo for the second
wicket and a further 62 with Samuels for the third wicket. The stylish right-hander played himself in, scoring just seven runs from his first 24 deliveries before exploding with an imperious straight hit off seamer Mustafizur Rahman (2-63) for six in the ninth over. He added another six – another straight hit this time off captain and pacer Mashrafe Mortaza – as he marched to his half-century off 67 balls in the 24th over. Hope lost Bravo, bowled round his legs by pacer Rubel Hossain (2-57) in the 17th over and Samuels, feathering a catch through to the keeper off Mustafizur at the end of the 33rd. And when Shimron Hetmyer (14), Powell (1) and Roston Chase (9) also followed cheaply, West Indies were 185 for six after 39 overs and in danger of losing their way. Unfazed, Hope completed his second fifty off 51 balls, raising three figures for the
third time in his career when he punched Mashrafe to deep over in the 41st over. Even when the required run rate climbed from six to 10, Hope kept his wits about him, rotating the strike and frustrating the Bangladesh bowlers. With 32 runs required from
18 balls, he flaunted nerves of steel with a straight six off Rubel at the start of the 48th over, and smashed three boundaries in the following over off Mustafizur which cost 16 runs, leaving West Indies with a mere six runs to get off the final over.
Monedderlust FC hammers Soccer City 5-0 in Candy Boss GT Beer 8-a-side football Play in the ongoing GT Beer/ Candy Boss and Antics promotion 8-a-side football tournament continued on Sunday at the All Saints Scott Church Ground, Princess Elizabeth Road, New Amsterdam with one game. The encounter, which was played under lights, saw Monedderlust of West Berbice taking Soccer City to task with a 5-0 drubbing. The one sided affair saw Monedderlust leading 3-0 at half time with goals from Kevin Fyfee in the 11th minute, Sceon Watts in the 17th minute and Jamal McDonald in the 26th minutes.
Arieo Watts added one in the 47th. A 20 minute stoppage due to malfunctioning lights on one side of the field held up play but at the resumption Paul McDonald banged home another in the 72nd minute for the 5-0 rout. The competition is expected to continue on Friday with Mahaica Determinators taking on No5. The final is set for January 5 at the same venue with the winner taking home $600,000, the runner up $300,000 and the third place finisher taking home $200,000. (Samuel Whyte)
The winning Monnerderlust team.
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Young Warriors CC gets help from US-based Guyanese The executives and members of the Young Warriors Cricket Club are working feverishly to return the club to its former glory after it was recently resuscitated. The Cumberland, East Canje-based cricket club secured three boxes of cricket balls from Yasin Mohamed of New York and formerly of Canefield Settlement, East Canje, Berbice. Former national player and coach, Hubern Evans, was instrumental in securing the balls. Mohamed said that he is happy to give back to cricket in the East Canje area. He added that with the recent closure of the sugar estate in the area, he knows that the community needs help and he is confident that sport is a way out of poverty. He made special mention of new West Indies batting star Shimron Hetmyer and advised the young boys and girls in the area to follow his footsteps. He represented The Rose Hall Community Centre Cricket Club in his playing days and rubbed shoulders with a number of former players from the Young Warriors CC. In response, Evans thanked Mohamed and promised that the club will
Members of the Young Warriors Cricket Club following the donation. continue to grow and recover quickly from its recent dormancy. He alluded to the fact that the team participated in first division cricket competition since its resuscitation, which was organized by the Berbice Cricket Board. He pointed out that they
played unbeaten until they lost to power house Rose Hall Town in the final. Evans also mentioned that the club has played unbeaten so far in the NBS Second Division Cricket Competition and topped their group in the preliminary round.
Providence, Spartans, All Season’s, GT... From page 40 respectively, while Navin Singh made 16, Dane Bynoe 16 and Raymond Ali 14 for therunner up spot. Ganesh Sankar scored 16 and Gilbert Mendonca 15 for Mix Up. Spartans marked 70 games to beat GT with 66 and Players on 59.
Shawn McKenzie made 16 and Deon Thompson 15 for Spartans while Delroy Williams and David Hunte got 16 and 15 respectively for GT. Loraine Reid and Orin Favorite scored 15 each for Players. The semi finals will commence at 19:00hrs tonight.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Providence, Spartans, All Season’s, GT earn semi final berth
Exciting action is anticipated tonight. Providence, Spartans, All Season’s Racing Service and GT have secured their places in the semi finals of David Hunte Dominoes tournament
which commenced on Sunday last at 6 Middle Street, Pouderoyen. Providence chalked up 72 games to win their encounter
against All Season’s Racing Service with 68 and Mix Up on 59. Shawn Davis and Lionel Gittens made 16 and 15 (Continued on page 39)
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Turbo football tournament
GFC hunting elusive silverware against Rangers tonight
Northern Rangers’ Nigel Denny (left) and GFC’s Dellon Cadogan pose with the Turbo KO trophy ahead of tonight’s final.
After falling agonisingly short in recent times, Georgetown Football Club (GFC) will be looking to dust out their trophy cabinet and add a senior title to their collection; something that they have not done in decades when they play Northern Rangers tonight in the Turbo knockout final. Set for the Ministry of Education (MOE) ground on C a r i f e s t a Av e n u e , t h e tournament culminates with the two best teams meeting in the final according to Petra Organisation’s (the hosts of the tournament) Co-director, Troy Mendonca. “The final has an ever improving GFC coming up against Northern Rangers that have a mixture of experienced players and youngsters,” Mendonca posited during a press brief with the two captains yesterday. He believes that the entire tournament was of high quality with several close encounters and he noted fan support for this evening’s final will be integral for both teams. Mendonca further added, “The defending champions, Police FC has been booted and we will crown a new champion tomorrow (tonight) and I just want to encourage fans to come out and witness these two great teams play quality football with the winner copping the grand cash prize of $800,000.” GFC through player/coach, Dellon Cadogan, has admitted that
the side is under pressure to ensure they secure a senior tournament trophy after over 50 years without a triumph. “ Ye s w e d o f e e l pressured because we need to get it done. We need to win a senior tournament; we’ve been right up there with the best for the longest while,” he explained.“We are not underestimating Northern Rangers but we are quite confident that we can get the job done... You can expect a lot from GFC tomorrow [today]... We predict victory by two goals clear,” Cadogan expounded. Nigel Denny, Skipper of Northern Rangers noted that there is a lot to prove from his side especially after falling to the fellow city club recently. “It will be a very good game. Kinda be a grudge match for me and my team because every time we come up against GFC, they always give us a lil fight, beating us in the last two games we played.”Denny who scored the vital equaliser in his team’s victory over Santos in the semifinals, noted that, “We [have] got a lot of experienced players with the right mix of youths which will make for an interesting final.” Tonight’s final is set for 21:00 with the third place playoff between Mahaica Determinators and Santos will set for 19:00hrs. The runners up will pocket $400,000, third $200,000 and fourth $100,000.
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 12, 2018
Reds disappointed, but hopeful as his concept for Sports Tourism seems to be going nowhere
By Sean Devers Kaieteur Sports caught up iconic Cricket Commentator and Sports Organizer Guyanese Joseph “Reds” Perreira during the Caribbean Boxing Championships last weekend in Guyana where he was Manager of team St Lucia. Don’t be fooled by his physical appearance; now 79, his years are showing, his hair is grey and he walks slowly with pronounced limp, not only because of his age but due to a stroke he suffered while doing commentary in an ODI at Sydney during the 1996 West Indies tour of Australia. Reds is most happy behind a microphone, his eyes light up, his brain is as sharp as ever and what memory he has. Reds was a part of Broadcast team doing the live streaming of the CBC Boxing card before doing the Ring announcing for over six hours on the final night.
Min of Business Ronald Bulkan. At his age time is running out and that’s expected but sadly his patience with how sports is viewed by those responsible for its development in Guyana is also running out. “I prepared a sport tourism proposal for Guyana with lots of workable ideas which I sent to Minister (of Business) Dominic Gaskin who passed it on to (Director General, Department of Tourism,) Donald Sinclair,” disclosed Reds, the Sports Advisor to former Sports Minister Shirley Field-
Ridley in the Forbes Burnham Government. Reds has commentated in 145 Tests and over 300 ODIs and also commentated on the George Foreman v Joe Frazier bout in Jamaica and informed that he was disappointed that there was no follow-up and his proposal did not get a chance to be formally discussed and implemented. Reds, who did his first Test in 1971 when West Indies opposed India, said while he is disappointed he is still hopeful that some of his
Reds with the St Lucia Boxing team at CBC in Guyana. ideas could become a reality and he could be a part of its implementation. “I think a sports tourism unit should be set up which is made up of all the stakeholders and a budget allocated for Sports Tourism,” added the former Sports Director in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). It has been reported that
from the $2.65Billion allocated to the Ministry of Business for 2019, the Guyana Tourism Authority and the Department of To u r i s m w i l l r e c e i v e $305Million and G$93Million respectively. Reds revealed that Sinclair responded by saying that his ideas were ‘good’ and ‘workable’ and informed t h a t a s p o r t To u r i s m conference would be held. “It was held but I was not invited and the opportunity for me to make a presentation of my proposal was wasted. I believe Guyana can reap a golden bonanza out of international sports tourism,” said Reds. “I am not attacking anyone but I am not sure where is the stump from my 100th Test in 1984 that I presented to the Director of Sports for the proposed Cricket Museum. The former players I have spoken to said he had not made contact with any of them. I could have gotten US10,000 on Embay for that stump since it was an original stump,” Red lamented. Reds, who resides in St Lucia, said that Guyana which is much bigger than all the English-speaking Caribbean countries combined but with a small population and has more in mineral, forestry, riverain and other resources, has paid little attention to the wealth it can reap from well-
organized sporting tournaments by foreign teams with carefully planned and securely guarded tours of Guyana by foreign players, their families, friends and supporters. “Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, St Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia and Grenada have already shown over many years how such tours, even of school teams can positively impact relationships between countries and increase foreign exchange inflows,” said Reds, whose voice is known in India, Australia, England, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Pakistan and Africa. The Essequibian from Pomaroon feels such an initiative will impact all sectors; the Government, Sporting Organizations/Associations, Food, Beverage, Souvenir and Clothing Producers, Tour Organizers and other related areas in the economy. Foreign teams and other sports visitors taken on tours will find history lessons in the names of many of the places they encounter and will be fascinated by the origins. Won’t it be fitting to name the Media Centre at the Providence Stadium the ‘Reds Perriera Media Centre’ while he is still alive to know that he was honoured by his own people?
Wednesday December 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
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U21 players gathered for National trials.
The Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) under the leadership of newly elected president Levi Nedd has started preparations early for the 2019 National and International season. Nedd, a long serving Volleyball stalwart with over four decades of involvement in the game both as a player and Official, recently oversaw preparations to select National U21 male and female teams. Guyana is expected to send teams to participate in a tournament to be held in French Guiana in February of 2019. The first round of trials was held at the National Gymnasium on Sunday and according to the GVF President the turnout was great. At the end of the trials a set of players were shortlisted and according to Nedd further shortlisting will be done. Nedd, who is also the President of the Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA), stated that the invitation was extended to the BVA, but they thought it best to include all of Guyana, for the exposure and development of the game. The trials were convened by Levi Nedd, GVF Vice President Rodney Fredericks and Errol Fingall. The opportunity was also taken to gather bio data information from players, with the intention of creating players profile for future reference and to track their performance and development. (Samuel Whyte)
Guyana Volleyball Federation begins 2019 preparations with successful U-21 trials
Female players and Officials at the National U21 trials.
rt o p S
Hope career -best century levels series for Windies
Oshane Thomas celebrates after getting Mushfiqur Rahim out, Bangladesh v West Indies, 2nd ODI, Dhaka, December 11, 2018 © AFP
Shai Hope goes on the attack during his unbeaten 146 in the second ODI against Bangladesh on Tuesday.
Turbo football tournament Thirteen complete GFF/FIFA-Facilitated Futsal GFC hunting elusive silverware against Rangers tonight Referees’ Workshop
Northern Rangers’ Nigel Denny (left) and GFC’s Dellon Cadogan pose with the Turbo KO trophy ahead of tonight’s final.
FIFA Instructor Shane Butler demonstrates a Technique to a participant.
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