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Kaieteur News
Friday December 13, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Friday December 13, 2019
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
Sick leave for hangovers
W
hy not make it official here, even though this could cause raised eyebrows?
That would be a medical note from a licensed professional stating the illness being treated is a hangover. Yes, a hangover is now sanctioned by a European Court as an illness. In alcohol-plagued Guyana, that could be a boon for imbibers. On the other hand, it would be an unqualified disaster for workplaces already burdened with the ancient standard of 28-days sick leave entitlement annually. It is one entitlement never wasted, but fully exploited on Mondays, days after holidays, paydays, birthdays, wedding days, farewell days, and all the other days that leave very few actual workdays left. The ‘sweet’ seasoned celebrators know how to work the system. Now if what happened in Europe gains traction here, then it could be one extended happy hour when the music and clinking of glasses have stopped and when some precious recovery time is desperately needed. According to an article in the New York Times dated September 24, “German Court says a hangover is an illness.” How about a grand round of cheers for the wisdom of the court? People stuff themselves daily with red meat to the point where arteries are clogged and hearts are stopped, and that is labeled cardiovascular disease, with sick leave authoritatively issued. They are just as quickly and wordlessly received in workplaces, with a prayer offered. Why not for those who drink themselves to oblivion? After all, the political, social, and financial environments are all very stressful. With regard for heredity factors suspended momentarily, many do the same with carbohydrates and poisons and harm themselves irreparably for a lifetime of struggle through the onset of diabetes and hypertension, and the associated personal, family, industrial, and social costs and nobody blinks an eye. In time, the same could be the norm for a hangover, which is almost similar to the fallout from red meat. One thing should be made clear: this paper does not support excessive drinking or alcohol-related irresponsibility in any form. Now the harsh realities must be faced. Alcohol and alcoholic swoons have been part of man’s greatest pleasures and greatest self-inflicted pains since time immemorial. Some reversals have been registered, but they are still minute. It has been his greatest prop, his deepest craving, and his sharpest trial. It is not going anywhere - and certainly, not here in Guyana; or in the sprawling abundance of its settled culture. With alcoholism already recognized as a disease, and now the first creep of hangovers diagnosed as illness in Germany, this could lead to the unseen cures of other places. The stage may have been kindly, but unwittingly, prepared to give some relief, not to just boozers, but to management and companies plagued by the downside withdrawals of overconsumption of alcohol. Consider the following. When there is a frequency of medical notes for this or that disease, sufferers are given extended time off. When it becomes clear that individual performance is going down, or that there are health and safety issues for colleagues or community, then the mechanism of a review board is triggered. When such a board determines that there is a problem, and that there is exposure, then the affected worker is helped on the way out. It is a part of normal and sound corporate standards and practice. Insurance companies could lobby for their best interests, which include better management of higher risks and the associated medical expenses, through legislation
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.
Guyana has not transformed itself so it can properly benefit from its oil DEAR EDITOR, Guyana is an opportunity for the oil industry to prove to the world that it does not have to be exploitative and predatory when operating in weak or fragile countries. The size of the initial spike in growth due to oil revenue is not a useful indicator of whether Guyana will evolve into a successful country (a Singapore) or into a disappointment (an Equatorial Guinea). Is Guyana less likely to succeed if the predicted growth rate was 46 percent instead of 86 percent, or more likely to succeed if it was 126 percent instead of 86 percent?
The answer is no. The important question and the challenge facing Guyana is how to translate a spike in revenue into sustainable a n d e q u i t a b l e growth—growth that transforms the lives of the majority of the people, especially those of the poor, and growth that heals our disabling ills (such as racial competition/conflict, high levels of interpersonal violence, rampant corruption, as well as ad-hoc and chaotic decision making). For Guyana to benefit from its oil revenue, we needed to have seen major changes over the last four years.
We needed to have seen a sense of urgency and a different mode of behaviour. B u t , u n f o r t u n a t e l y, Guyana’s leaders do not seem to understand the situation and what is needed, and Guyana has not prepared or transformed itself so it can properly benefit from its oil. Our leaders have been passive and not active and seem to rely on trickle-down economics instead of i m p l e m e n t i n g transformative policies. They have been bickering and fighting, which already is a sign of the resource curse. They have created false expectations as part of their
electioneering, instead of creating and implementing a new realistic vision for Guyana. It is likely that the election results will spur even more fighting, and the international community will have less leverage to rein in our bickering leaders, who now think they are oil rich and can i g n o r e Wa s h i n g t o n , London and Toronto (and instead can buy new friends in Beijing and Moscow, as well as in Lagos and Luanda).” Dr. Jan Mangal (Oil and Gas Consultant Former Petroleum Advisor to the president of Guyana)
Guyanese have a right to decide their own fate: No foreign influence, period! DEAR EDITOR, It is with deep concern that I pen this letter to express my dismay at comments made by US Embassy staff, Professor Ellis as reported in the local media. Ellis’s comments are political in nature and strike at the heart of Guyana’s democracy. These comments appear to be an unwarranted intrusion into Guyana’s electoral independence. This recent news report could not have come at a worst time, a time of heightened political tensions in Guyana, when the country is heading to National Elections in a few months. His comments seem to have indicated that he has effectively put his thumb on the elections scales in Guyana, declaring that one opponent will win as opposed to another. The, APNU, one of the leading political parties to contest the upcoming elections has already responded and expressed its dismay at Ellis’s comments. Had Ellis not been a current employee of the US government his comments could have been viewed with less suspicion and potential interference in Guyana’s elections. His
comments can be seen as an attempt, whether knowingly or unknowingly, to influence Guyanese voters. T h e U S E m b a s s y ’s response, though with some degree of swiftness, to this matter was inadequate. It matters not that Professor Ellis’s comments were made at a time when he was not employed with the US government. What matters is that he is a current employee of the US Embassy, located in the country his elections predictions were centered on. I read the Embassy’s statement on the matter and w o n d e r e d i f E l l i s ’s comments were only now discovered, after they were published on the online media! Was there no due diligence done to ensure that any potential US Embassy staffer was clear of any conflicting political position, whether explicitly stated or implied by conduct. It should be no surprise that a partisan political commentary by a US Embassy staffer would draw the ire of local politicians, political parties and the Guyanese people. The Embassy should have foreseen that a stated bias
that provides narrower limits of coverage. It should be remembered that sustained alcoholism produces more than the next day torture of a hangover. There are correlations to hypertension, heart disease, liver disease, brain damage, and much more. Those are all extremely expensive medical propositions. In addition, mortality rates are affected, which means that life insurance liabilities exist and multiply.
political position, by one of its staff, on the domestic politics of a foreign nation could be construed as political interference in that country’s politics. In any democracy or any country that believes in free and transparent elections this comment could be a serious concern to the people. According to the US Embassy, in its statement, Professor Ellis’s comments
were made in April last year, less that two years ago. Therefore, the Embassy ought to have known that the professor’s, fairly recent, partisan comments could follow him into his new role. His comments could also be used by a political opponent and branded or interpreted as a US government position. One would think that given the present political (Continued on page 6)
An open letter to the Bank of Guyana Governor DEAR SIR, Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited has recently implemented a menu of measures that significantly impact the delivery of financial services to its consumers. During the Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited’s October 23, 2019 Internet Banking Demonstration at the Marriott Hotel, its facilitators - under interrogation - all conceded that a configuration permitting a single online-banking Site Administrator to act alone presents a greater risk than that which requires at least two (2) online-banking Site Administrators to function jointly. Notwithstanding, the bank has not allowed the second configuration. Understanding that your office is vested with regulatory authority over Guyana’s financial sector, I humbly request that you require the Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited to avail interested consumers the choice between permitting a single online-banking Site Administrator to act alone, and that requiring at least two (2) online-banking Site Administrators to function jointly. With warmest regards, Gavin A. L. Houston Those are the bloodless, clinical aspects of taking the German Court’s decision to a logical conclusion. On the personal side, individuals could be forced to be much more responsible, knowing that quality of life, workplace considerations, and long-term prospects come more under the microscope and at sensitive levels. The ruling of that German Court could lead to new places. Even unanticipated blessings.
Friday December 13, 2019
Ban on Christmas parties temporarily erases a pervasive problem from schools, not communities DEAR EDITOR, This matter has the capacity to stir political thoughts and feelings. I make my position clear that I take no side in political matters currently and I invested maximum effort in writing objectively about an issue to which I am a stakeholder. The recent ban on Christmas parties by the Ministry of Education was, stated bluntly, a terrible decision. This initiative demonstrates that the government is aware of the atrocious level of the indiscipline in schools. I seek an answer to this question. How does a ban on Christmas parties eliminate misbehaviour in schools? All that it does is force students to behave decently temporarily. I shall outline to you the reason that this plan will not correct misbehaviour and I will present suggestions as to better solutions to the problem of poor discipline. The justification that had been given for the ban on Christmas parties in favour of strictly supervised lunches where students may only listen to carols and must be dressed in school uniforms is that when parties are in progress students’ behaviour diminishes, sinking into indecent and sometimes even downright criminal actions like: drug use, taking weapons to school, the playing of vulgar music, downright failure to acknowledge the dress code, etc. Hence, the Ministry knows that under minimal supervision students are likely to behave like ill-trained savages, or so they think. If these students cannot be trusted to handle themselves in a responsible and rule-abiding matter at a simple party how can the Ministry trust to release them into the
larger society? The rules already prohibit such behaviour, and the education system is under the illusion that it is producing young people who will be law-abiding citizens. If a person has no respect for simple school rules, what guarantee do you have that they would respect laws? The Ministry admits that students do not respect laws; they take weapons and drugs on school premises! This is supposed to sound alarms that we have a crisis on our hands. Rather than sending professionals, training teachers, or involving the wider community in reaching out to, connecting with, and protecting our youth from immorality and illegalities, they have convinced themselves that the best solution to this issue is to eradicate an event that students and even teachers look forward to after the end of a long, possibly even exhausting year. Additionally, if teachers have a difficult time supervising students in a party, how does this make it any easier? The only possible way I can see this working is if students are restricted to their class, in which sense I do not see it as a social, it becomes more of collective isolation. Even the Guyana Teachers’ Union has rightfully stated their position against this and they have not even consulted. The government should be more focused on the obliteration of immorality and selfdestructive behaviour among youth. They should direct their attention towards educating, supporting and elevating our youth. Remember, these are the people who will be entrusted with our Coop-
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erative Republic of Guyana. I think this a worthy investment. The government should introduce moral education to the curriculum and promote health and family life education so that students understand why morals are important and do not feel as though it is a cord that society uses to suffocate them into submission. Rescuing youth from the shackles of crime and the shame of indecency, which lead only to the destruction of our young people and society as a whole, is a sacrifice that we must make. The projects which are needed far surpass in demand and cost a simple ban on Christmas parties if we wish to destroy indecent and detrimental behaviour entirely. Education, not oppression, is the way. In fact, this ban on Christmas parties is enforced even upon those students who do not behave as recklessly as their comrades but still enjoy the party atmosphere. In summary, this ban on Christmas parties in secondary schools indicates that the government is aware of the indiscipline plaguing our youth. Instead of treating the issue holistically, where the (Continued on page 6)
How easily someone can fall from grace DEAR EDITOR, I have been following with interest Court proceedings in the Hague against Myanmar following a lawsuit filed by Gambia regarding allegations of genocide against Rohingya muslims by the military.Of interest to note is that Aung San Suu Kyi, the de facto leader following democratic elections won by her party, was at one time regarded as the champion of Burmese democracy and a fierce critic of military rule. She is now before the World Court to defend allegations of genocide by the military! This is perhaps one of the biggest ironic twists in modern political history. She is now a defender of the same military that denied her political power for over two decades of which fifteen of those years were spent under
Justice delayed is justice denied DEAR EDITOR, The unreadiness to move forward in the Marcus Bisram matter is not only embarrassing but must be seen as an indictment on the state head with responsibility for the agency prosecuting the case. The adage justice delayed is justice denied seems apt. Would this go the same route as other cases for lack of prosecution? That would be a real shame! Shamshun Mohamed
house arrest. It is interesting to see how the matter will play out in the Hague. Regardless of the outcome, the reputation and image of Aung San Suu Kyi as a fighter for human rights and democracy in her country will be further diminished in the eyes of millions who at one time regarded her as a political icon.It is pathetic to see images of her in the Hague in defence of the actions of the military. My own view is that she has now become a reluctant creature of the military despite the fact that her party won a resounding victory in
democratic elections in November 2015.I feel sorry for her. I have, in several letters in the media praised her for her bravery and courage in the struggle against military rule for which she was awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize. I still recognize her past contribution as a champion and role model for peace and democracy not only in her country but the world at large.Something has definitely gone wrong. This is a case of the fragility of the human spirit and how easily someone can fall from grace. Hydar Ally
Large govt. subsidies have kept the sugar industry alive since nationalization DEAR EDITOR, In a news media letter of December 8, Tony Vieira, a former legislator and management executive who has worked in the sugar industry for over 40 years expressed the view that many tragedies appear to be unfolding at Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) as it closes its sugar estates, destroying much of the fields infrastructures. He felt that the abandoned cane fields took a generation to develop and they have enormous potential if converted to aquaculture ponds to rear fish/ shrimps/prawns with financial returns eight times more than that of sugar production. He provided no data to support his claim and further implied that the government should undertake this conversion. The evidence however, has shown that since independence no government (PNC, PPP, PNC/AFC) has ever managed an enterprise successfully. The profitable sugar industry since nationalization has been incurring huge losses in its operation and has been kept alive only by large government subsidies. C. Sohan
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The complete disregard GTT shows cember. Again, I believed them. On the 11th to customers December, I got a call from them requesting DEAR EDITOR, I have been a customer with GTT for a number of years, and in spite of their substandard services, kept supporting the Company. However, my recent experiences with them have opened my eyes to the sad reality, that they have no real care for customers. My landline went down 23rd November this year, taking my internet service with it. The matter was reported the next day and a reference number was given me. I was also told that a technician will have it rectified in five (5) working days. At the end of the five working days no one showed up so I visited the branch in Linden. Then I was told the standard time is eight (8) working days. Even though I was upset I left believing that they would honour their assignment. Lo and behold, nine (9) working days passed but no one showed up. I then contacted the headquarters in Georgetown where I spoke to a supervisor who claimed that the area manager had set my repairs for the 11th or 12th of De-
my location. I know it was from them because the person who called repeated my complaint. I waited at home all day, canceled my appointments two days in a stretch, yet, no one showed up. I called the office again and spoke to the area manager who promised to get back to me in a few minutes. It has been more than seven (7) hours ago. I called back and was put through to an answering machine. Editor, is this right? Is this the way large companies treat customers? And I’m not the only customer they have been tricking like this. When I went to pay my bills, there were other customers there who were complaining about the time it takes for their issues to be fixed. There were persons who had to wait between three to six months to have them deal with their issues. GTT is incapable of providing decent services to Guyanese. Something needs to be done urgently. I have to be buying data, while still paying for an internet service. I feel robbed. Yours sincerely, Fed up Customer
Guyanese have a right to decide... From page 4 realities in the USA, where the sitting president is presently facing impeachment charges for allegedly asking a foreign government, Ukraine, to interfere in the US upcoming elections, would be of good guidance to the US Embassy in Guyana. Like Americans, Guyanese would not want any external interference in their elections, especially from government officials of a country they admire and hold out as a beacon of true democracy, the USA. Sadly, Professor Ellis’s comments have awoken a deep sense of suspicion. It is unfortunate that prior to him being employed by the US Embassy an official disclaimer
or a nullification of his comments were not done. My belief is that if this kind of full disclosure/disclaimer was done, Guyanese would have had no reason to be suspicious of this Embassy staffer, and questions of potential election meddling would not have surfaced. Further, the Guyana government would have had no reason to issue a statement of concern. Guyana, regardless of administrations, has had a good relationship with the USA. However, any attempt which suggest that any agent of the US is putting it’s thumb on Guyana’s election scale have the potential to injure
that relationship. I believe it would be in the interest of the US Embassy to issue a more fulsome statement and encourage Professor Ellis to clarify, or withdraw his comments. These, I believe will serve well to put to rest any idea that the US Embassy in Guyana and by extension the US government has openly injected itself in Guyanese politics and have picked a winner for the next election. The Guyanese people must not go to an election with a feeling that they have not been the sole decision makers in deciding who their government will be. Guyanese people must go to the next elections knowing that their elections were void of any interference of a foreign power, whether by a US Embassy staffer or any other means. Professor Ellis’s statement cannot just be wished away or slightly brushed aside. His pronouncement can form part of a political campaign that is likely to result in some very serious charges and issues. Guyanese value their right to decide their own fate, as regards who becomes their government. This right should be respected! Sincerely, Lurlene Nestor
Friday December 13, 2019
The GAWU has never ever lost its voice DEAR EDITOR, Mr Abel Seetaram in a letter appearing in the December 12 edition of another newspaper was allowed to pursue a maligned and falsehood-filled attack on our Union. It appears that the letter signer has friends in high places. But that is entirely another story. The GAWU when considering the utterances written under Mr Seetaram’s hand debated whether it really should take the time to offer a response. The individual, who is known for is escapades, cannot be even deemed a political featherweight. We nevertheless decided to pen this response though knowing that the individual is really no more than a mere hanger on, but his sentiments will likely be read by the newspaper’s readership and his fiction may well be deemed as the truth. The ‘letter writer’ begins his missive by denouncing the recent protests by sugar workers which, in his little mind, he contends have been politically influenced. Maybe the individual, who may not have even signed his letter, should have prefaced his letter with “once upon a time”. We hate to burst the bubble he lives in but the actions by sugar workers were only fuelled by the atrocious treatment they have received at the hands of the Coalition Government. Certainly, any rational human being would react in the same manner. We wonder how Mr Seetaram would react were he in the shoes of a sugar worker. How would he feel that he could not afford to buy something nice for his house or to even just add a fresh coat of paint to brighten up the home for the holidays? How would he feel that he could not afford to buy a nice meal for his family or not even a little gift for his children? This, Mr Seetaram, or whoever is the real author, are feelings of the sugar workers at this time. It is now the fifth Christmas they are enduring since their rates-of-pay have remained unchanged. This is their new reality and is apparently is the ‘Good Life’ they were promised. It is next said that GAWU
Police officers directing traffic at intersections DEAR EDITOR, The kind of way our Guyanese police officers direct traffic is bad in law, they always indicate to a vehicle driver to speed up or hurry-up. With the reality of oil and gas business getting closer and more personnel and visitors entering Guyana, our police officers must use the internationally accepted hand signals to beckon and stop traffic. Beckoning vehicles coming from the front, this means if you are facing the officer you can drive pass the officer. ‘’ Stopping of speeders will certainly save a life ‘’ Yours faithfully, Parmanand Ram
lost its voice during the PPP/ C Administration. It seems like the RDC Councillor has the tendencies of an ostrich and he has probably hid his head in the ground all that time. The GAWU has never ever lost its voice. Our advocacy on behalf of our membership had never ceased. Of course when it comes to sugar, we did not have to contend with a heartless bunch as we have now. But our voice allowed workers pay and conditionsof-work to be improved. Our voice saw many workers becoming home owners and sending their children to high school and beyond, a cherished dream for many. Our voice saw justice and fairness prevailing and our voice spoke up on behalf of the industry. So, no Mr Seetaram we haven’t ever lost our voice, but it is because of our voice that you and your ilk are upset that we continue to speak up and speak out? We are told that our voice was not heard when two (2) estates were closed supposedly under the PPP/C Administration. Of course we have addressed this matter on several occasions, and given what we know of Mr Seetaram, we believe, our time can be better spent than rehashing what we have explained before. On the NIS, Mr Seetaram, sugar workers know too of our advocacy. Over the years, we have probably represented thousands of workers in regards to the different problems they encounter with the Scheme. At this very time, we are pursuing many matters with the NIS’ local and central offices. Just recently the NIS agreed with our request to have central engagements with a view to addressing matters more quickly. Similarly, we have continued to actively represent workers grievances. Our representation has been successful on several occasions. As a responsible Union we cannot ignore the workers matters which are so germane to our work.
Mr Seetaram next criticizes, without any foundation, our Union’s leadership. We want to say that the election of the GAWU leadership is done by the Union’s membership through delegates present at our Congresses which are held in keeping with our Constitution. Certainly, we want to believe the Councillor understands this process. Not too long ago, Mr Seetaram’s own party had elections where certain persons were elected. Of course, we did see concerns being expressed about whether the process was really democratic. We want to tell the letter writer, that our Union upholds genuine democratic practices unlike what Mr Seetaram maybe accustomed to.Mr Seetaram in the letter also referred to promises to Guyanese. But while he talks about commitments, he apparently does not remember what his colleagues told sugar workers. He does not remember that they said sugar is too big to fail. He fails to recollect that workers were told that the Coalition “will not, in any way, close the sugar industry”. We are sure he has forgotten about the twenty (20) per cent pay rise promised. So he should not even be talking about promises. It is clear as day Mr Seetaram and his political colleagues are upset by our reminder of their commitments and our consistent advocacy on behalf of the nation’s sugar workers. The reality is that the shabby and discriminatory treatment that has been meted out to this group of Guyanese cannot be condoned. Did Mr Seetaram and company really expect us to remain silent by these antiworker practices? Of course, no doubt, are regularly raised voice is what irks them so much. They want to be seen without damnable records, when really they are wolves in sheep clothing. Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU
Ban on Christmas parties... From page 5 youths are made aware of the effects of wrongful deeds, the government has chosen to erase a harmless activity. I wonder if soon sports will be banned because students misbehave on the field. The government must place efforts on educating the young people towards killing their demons, rather than trying to stamp out harmless events because they breathe activity into the demons. In other words, the focus should be placed on moral education through interactive sessions, one on one talks, building good trust between teachers, communities and students, and the backing of morality in the curriculum. If we are to shred all social events because people misbehave at them rather than correct the misbehaviour, we rob ourselves of a good time and steal opportunities for rescue from the people. If treated correctly, we could erase misbehaviour and even criminal actions across our entire nation, while maintaining democratic principles. Yours sincerely, Charlie Adhar
Kaieteur News
Friday December 13, 2019
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Change Guyana Region 10 policy mirrors APNU+AFCs 2015 manifesto The recently launched political party Change Guyana has been heavily critical of the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) and the APNU+AFC Government for failing to honour their promises to the people of Region 10. But if elected to serve in the next government, Change Guyana has vowed that it would do right by the citizenry, as it has a solid Development Policy in place. But upon examination of that very policy, there were notable similarities between the plans Change Guyana says it has for Region 10 and the ones that APNU+AFC had proposed in its 2015 manifesto. In its policy, Change Guyana said it will establish a University Campus in Linden. APNU+AFC had a similar proposal in its 2015 manifesto, which read, “Establish a University of Guyana campus in Linden offering courses relevant to the developmental needs of Regions Seven, Eight, Nine, and 10.” Further, the coalition had promised the development the 200,000 hectares of the intermediate savannahs for lemons, limes, oranges, cattle, legumes (beans and peas), vegetables, as the countrys
Change Guyana Presidential Candidate, Robert Badal
Prime Ministerial Candidate of Change Guyana, Nigel Hinds
second frontier for agricultural development. Change Guyana committed to doing just that, but with an extra 300,000 acres of land. This newspaper observed that the APNU+AFC Manifesto also spoke of creating new jobs, alongside policies to guarantee workers rights and welfare, and so did Change Guyana, which specifically stated that it will, “Defend workers rights and fair employment policies.” Further, the coalition administration had noted in its manifesto that it will invite and support foreign investment from reputable and known multinationals to develop the aluminum industry in Guyana. Interestingly, Change Guyana promises to do same, as its policy states,
“Put incentives to attract investors to build an alumina plant in Region 10 to convert Aluminum Ore to Aluminum Oxide/Alumina.” Furthermore, Change Guyana also committed to make the paved Linden to Lethem highway a reality, the same project that was promised and is in the works by the current government. Notwithstanding the aforementioned, the party did put forward some original ideas for Region 10. These include establishing a Special Economic Zone, removing Income Taxes for citizens working for less than $100,000, and establishing a wharf facility in Region 10 to transport value added timber for the export market and other regions of Guyana.
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Friday December 13, 2019
25 years for man who repeatedly raped minor
“I am very, very sorry about this. I hope everyone can forgive me,” muttered convicted child rapist 48year-old Jegede Hodge as he tried to persuade the court to gave him a light sentence. However, trial Judge Simone Morris-Ramlall deemed his statements “unequivocal and inconsistent” when compared to what he said in a probation report in which he maintained his innocence. On November 28, Hodge, of Mocha, East Bank Demerara, was found guilty on four counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child under 16 years of age. The jury returned unanimous verdicts in relation to all the counts. According to the indictments presented by State Prosecutors Teriq Mohammed and Nafeeza
Baig, Hodge first engaged in sexual activity with the child between May 1 and 31, 2014, when she was just 13. Again, he did it between September 1 and 30, 2014. When the young girl turned 14 in 2015, he again engaged in sexual penetration with her between January 21 and December 31 of that year. In 2017, when she turned 16, Hodge again did the act between September 1 and 30. In a statement to the court, the young girl expressed that when she was first raped she felt traumatised and wanted to kill herself as she thought it was her fault. She said that she was in so much pain that many nights she cried herself to sleep. She told the probation officer that she eventually confided in her friends about what had happened and
warned them to keep it a secret. Further, the rape survivor expressed that her mother did not believe her when she told her that Hodge had been molesting her. As a result of this, the young girl said that she and her mother do not share a close relationship. According to her, Hodge would come and pick her up from school and take her “all over the place” where he would have sex with her. She said that on many occasions she begged him to use a condom as she did not want to become pregnant at an early age. As a result of what happened to her, the girl related that persons in her community began taunting her. Hodges lawyer, Ravindra Mohabir asked the court to temper justice with mercy. He said that his client is a father of one, with no previous convictions. In fact, Mohabir expressed that it is unfortunate
that Hodges three-year-old child will have to grow up without a father, as he pointed to the importance of a father in a childs upbringing. The lawyer also sought to adopt the contents of a probation report on his clients character. In the report, it was noted that the convicts family is still shocked at the nature of the offence for which he was found guilty. In the probation report, Hodge was described as a very hardworking and respectful individual by his relatives and workmates. In this regard, Mohabir submitted that based on the findings of the probation report, it is highly possible that Hodge can be reintegrated in society. Prosecutor Mohammed reminded the court that Hodge was found unanimously guilty on all counts and that during the trial he
Liza I and 2 US$10B bill ... (From page 3) the price for the Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel “should be made public” adding that individuals have already been publicly questioning the cost for the Liza Destiny—Guyana’s first FPSO. The Liza Destiny is currently being moored in the Stabroek Block as part of a US$4B Field Development Plan for the Liza I oil field while the Liza Unity for the second oil field is currently under construction.
maintained that he was innocent. In fact, the prosecutor said that during an unsworn statement, Hodge maintained that he was being framed by the young girls father. Finally, the prosecutor asked the court to consider the psychological effects the offence has had on the victim. Justice Morris-Ramlall in arriving at a sentence considered the following factors: the nature and circumstances under which the offence was committed, the fact that he robbed the young girl of her innocence when she was just 13, and continued doing so up until she turned 16. Furthermore, the court also took into consideration that as a result of what happened to her, the young girl shares a broken relationship with her mother and siblings, and also that Hodge has no prior antecedents and the favourable probation report, along with the plea in mitigation presented by his lawyer. The Judge handed down separate sentences as it relates to each count. On the first charge, Hodge was jailed for 18 years; on the second charge, 20 years; on the third charge for 22 years, and on the last charge he was sentenced to 25 years imprison-
Jailed: Jegede Hodge ment. The court, however, ordered that the sentences are to be served concurrently. The court further ordered that Hodge is to undergo counselling every four months, for persons convicted of sexual offences. His victim receives counselling from the Ministry of Social Protection.
Friday December 13, 2019
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MASQUERADE BANDS ARE A NUISANCE The masquerade bands which are parading the streets are a disgrace. They are doing a grave injustice to a traditional art form. The present crop of masquerade bands, unfortunately, are not upkeeping any traditions. The bands are destroying them with their mediocrity, and by using it to make money without really earning that money through the display of their craft. Masquerade has long been
associated with the Christmas season. It is also an African tradition which, it is claimed, was used as part of the resistance during slavery. Its cultural value has been established by the fact that it survived the process of cultural emasculation by the colonialists. Unfortunately, what the colonial authorities did not achieve – the erasure of this art form – may well be achieved by the majority of
Prisoner on attempted murder charge found hanging in station lockups Police have launched an investigation into the death of Seffon Smith, 25, who was found hanging in the lockups at the Suddie Police Station at around 10.40 hrs yesterday. A release stated that Smith, called ‘Blacka’ of ‘Blackboy’, of Vryman’s Erven, New Amsterdam, Berbice, was on remand, on charges of attempting to commit murder, and wounding with intent, committed on Michael Marco. The incident occurred in the Potaro Backdam, on January 26, 2016.Smith was seen by a psychiatrist on Monday, to ascertain whether he was fit to stand trial in the Suddie Supreme Criminal Court. He attended court on Wednesday and was further remanded until January 8, 2020. He was placed in the Suddie Police Station lockups, prior to being transported to the Georgetown Prisons. However, at around 10.40 hrs, Smith was found hanging by a bed-sheet, which was attached to a ventilation grill in his cell. The body is at the Suddie Hospital mortuary awaiting a post mortem.
the present crop of masqueraders. They are bringing the art form into disrepute. In the old days, colourful bands of dancers and musicians bedecked in costumes and with props, would take to the streets of villages and the wards of towns and perform for residents, who in turn would make small donations to the band. Dancers would flounce and perform deft and fancy quick-steps much to the delight and envy of onlookers. In the old days, you could not but help admire the artistry of masquerade dancers, who took pride in their craft and made the effort to please residents.These days the bands do not go into the wards and villages. They stay on the main roads, use their ‘privileges’ to obstruct traffic in order to extort monies from
motorists who are forced to slow or stop, and to give a donation.This practice has cheapened masquerade and turned it into extortion. In the old days, you had to dance to get a donation. These days you just have to jump in front of a moving vehicle. Most drivers find these masqueraders as nuisances and mainly give money in order to go along their way. The performers are also endangering themselves by jumping into the path of moving vehicles by playing their wares on some of the busiest thoroughfares in the country. The practice of jumping in front of moving vehicles is extremely dangerous. God forbid if anything should happen to one of them while on the road. In the main, what passes for masquerade bands is a poor
imitation of the art form. Most of the performers are not properly trained. They are more interested in holding out the collection cap than they are about moving their feet and upper body. Most of them do not have a clue about flouncing.The police should have long taken action to discourage the practice of masquerade bands on busy streets. It seems as if only when a tragedy strikes, the police are prepared to take action. One of these days, someone is going to be run over by a motorist, and only then will the police issue guidelines on the use of roadways for masquerade bands. The appalling lack of skill is just one of the many challenges standing in the way of preserving the masquerade band. To be brutally frank, the costumes of most masquer-
ade bands have seen better days. These costumes are mainly hand-downs. The art of masquerade needs a makeover. As has been said, this is a special Guyanese tradition, and one which most people feel should be preserved. But to do this requires the establishment of standards and guidelines on its practice. It would be sad, and a loss to Guyana’s cultural heritage, if the masquerade goes into remission or is further degraded. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 13, 2019
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Read what the International Business Times wrote about us In its Wednesday, December 4 issue, the International Business Times, with the caption, “Guyana on the Brink of Unimaginable Oil Wealth: Is This Small, Poor Country Prepared?” published these words; “But some observers worry that immense riches might not benefit Guyana, a country that has been notoriously corrupt and burdened by high rates of poverty and unemployment.” I suggest you read this article, because the columnist, Palash Ghosh quotes many foreign experts expressing their concern as to how the money will be spent. The columnist cites Amy Myers Jaffe, the director of the energy security and climate change program at the Council on Foreign Relations, as being skeptical. Myers noted that; “there is no way the explosion of money will be managed properly.”The cynicism and skepticism of many other leading experts on global business trends are produced in the article. Obviously, these
people have read up on Guyana. They are right. When the anticipated wealth comes, I don’t know if I will still be writing. I don’t know what I will be doing with my life, because I am getting on in age. Let me be unambiguous in my criticism of the people who currently inhabit the kingdoms of the PPP, PNC and AFC, so when that oil wealth is melted away like butter against the heat, my critiques will be there for researchers to read. The leaders of these three parties are unfit to administer oil revenues. Their track records are utterly horrible. I am not saying the newcomers in the third parties are morally superior. But I know the ones who had recent power, and those now in power, have shown no patriotic responsibilities in the use of state funds. From Jagdeo to Granger, we have seen reckless, wanton, ostentatious, insane spending that should cause every citizen over 18 years to reject the PPP, PNC and AFC
in 2020. I read that article in the International Business Times, and if the money it projects is indeed factual, then enormous wealth is coming to this country. Based on those track records from 1999 to 2019, the PPP and APNU+AFC should not be elected to have a parliamentary majority. Wasted money is going to cascade like fountain water. My accusation of morbid financial waste by the current regime is based on UG under Ivelaw Griffith’s leadership 2016-2019. I have written about this in several columns, and I am repeating it here, and I am sure today will not be the last. The way hundreds of millions of dollars at UG during those years were thrown away on monumental frivolities, and the government’s refusal to act because of political patronage, tells the tragic nature of this country. For men and women in power who saw enduring poverty all over Guyana long before they were successful
leaders, not to have acted to curtail reckless, ostentatious spending at UG, is a formidable indictment on their eligibility to rule this land. The present regime will not survive scrutiny of the morbid expenditure that went on at UG from 2016, but their opponents are not making it a campaign issue. They should, and I hope they do. Here now is a fact that should generate anger in you when the subject of how oil wealth will be used comes up in any kind of conversation. When the unions in their glorious attempts requested a forensic audit of UG, the government rejected it, settling for a mainstream audit, which is different in scope and magnitude from a forensic audit. The ordinary audit was agreed upon. When Griffith came under the micro-
scope at contract renewal time and resigned, the government ended the audit. It was the Auditor General who showed immense courage by asserting his office’s right to continue with the process. I am repeating what was contained several times in these columns and what I have said on two radio station interviews. Here it is; I honestly believe any PPP government would have intervened and stopped that mismanagement at UG. There was too much funds going upon the rubbish heap for a poor nation like Guyana. I make no apology for this opinion and I will repeat it here for emphasis - no PPP government would have tolerated the insane spending that went on a UG from 2016 2019. The majority of Guyanese
Frederick Kissoon will cringe when they see how the APNU+AFC regime wasted hundreds of millions on form and not substance at UG. I am not voting for the PPP. But after what I saw at UG, the APNU+AFC coalition is unfit to rule this nation. It should not be in control of our oil wealth, period! (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
Dem boys seh...
Two political party got de same manifesto De more you live, de more you see. Of course, since Soulja Bai announce elections day is every day dem boys hearing how this party didn’t honour its elections promise or this party always mekking promise. Dem didn’t realize that dem didn’t hear de best thing. One political party decide to blast de coalition fuh failing to keep its campaign promises. That was all well and good till this party hold up its campaign promise. Right away dem boys remember when dem was in primary school. In dem days de school always had people who like to copy. Dem boys know it as cogging. De people copy right down to de name of de person dem copying from.That is wha happen when this new political party release its election campaign promise. This thing is almost word fuh word wha de coalition promise got. Is like when Donald Trump wife mek she speech. De people find out that she copy Michelle
Obama speech word fuh word, right down to Michelle two daughter name. That is wha this new party do. De leader hold up de coalition list of promises in one hand and hold up he own in de next hand. Dem boys seh people believe dem was looking in a mirror. One man ask de party leader if he pick up de right manifesto and he seh ‘yes.’ That is when dem boys realize that nutten ain’t change. That did happen during a protest. Dem boys hear a man reading dem placard and pointing out de mistakes. De next day de man had he own placard and it had more spelling mistakes than dem what he was criticizing.But of course, dem boys always remember de saying that there is nutten new under de sun. It mean that somebody had to use something that people did use before. Talk half and watch cogging in this election
Friday December 13, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Friday December 13, 2019
Police eye Lamaha St. railway embankment to relocate city bus parks As Guyana continues to battle increasing congestion especially in the city, and East and West Demerara, the police force is examining a number of options. One of them is removing the bus parks from the city and relocating them to the railway embankment, along Lamaha Street. This disclosure was made on Tuesday by Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Linden Isles. He was speaking at the time on The Legal Mind, hosted on Kaieteur Radio. Answering questions about congestion, the Traffic Chief said that the police force is cognizant of the problem. The force is short of personnel to man the streets effectively, with Isles not immediately providing details. The problem is that Guyana simply does not have enough roads to handle the traffic explosion, the official said. In the last three years alone, more than 30,000 vehicles hit the countrys
roadways. The Traffic Chief disclosed that earlier this year, he had submitted a white paper on solutions to solve some of the congestion issues. One of them is relocating the minibus parks from the Stabroek Market and Regent and Hinck Streets area to the embankment. No minibuses would be parked in town. Rather, the minibuses would stop at designated areas to pick up and let off passengers. The idea would be to bridge certain sections of the Lamaha Street canal for the buses to access the embankment. According to Isles, while there have not been any major developments, it is one of the several options available. Indeed, the Stabroek area and congestion along Avenue of the Republic, because of the bus parks, have created bottlenecks, further snarling traffic along the routes. The problem has been plaguing the country, with the
situation worsening as bank financing for vehicles became easier. The congestion along the East Bank, West Bank and East Coast are especially tough for drivers and passengers in the peak hours. The backups would be worse in the event of major accidents like the case of heavy duty equipment which fell across the East Bank road, a few months ago at McDoom, blocking traffic for hours.
The Stabroek Market area has been a sore point of congestion
The police force has a proposal to move the current minibus parks from the Stabroek Market area and relocating them to the railway embankment along Lamaha Street
Cops hunt for dredge owner’s crew as DNA confirms skeletal remains are his Police have stepped up the hunt for former employees of Bartica miner, Philbert Fraser, whose skeletal remains were found last February near his camp at Arimu Backdam, Cuyuni River. A senior police official said that investigators recently received the results of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) tests, which confirmed that the victim is Fraser, who was 60. However, the cause of death could not be determined, and the body was handed over to relatives for burial. Police have received information that Fraser, called ‘Rasta Royo, of Bartica,’ had a
three-man crew. None of them can be located. Sources who spoke to Kaieteur News said that Fraser had hired one of the men shortly before he returned to the interior. He had reportedly expressed some reservations about this individual. According to reports, Fraser left his home on January 16, last, for his camp, located in the Arimu Backdam.On February 9, a miner went to Fraser’s camp to enquire about a component for a dredge. He found the camp empty. However, a carrion crow that flew out of the bushes caught his attention. He then checked the area and found Fraser’s remains.
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Duo to serve life sentence for Trader expects Guyana’s oil 2013 murder of security guard to start at US$4-$6 over North Sea crude prices Reuters … then increase after three months
Calvin King (face hidden) and Alvin Kissoon Life sentences were imposed yesterday on Alvin Kissoon and Calvin King who were convicted last month for the January 2013 murder of security guard, John Friday, who was shot and killed during a robbery at the Lethem Post Office. The now convicted killers had initially denied that between January 18 and January 19, 2013, they murdered Friday. During a sentence hearing yesterday at the High Court in Demerara, State Prosecutor Abigail Gibbs urged Justice Sandil Kissoon to consider that at the time of the robbery Friday was working to make an honest living. The prosecutor in her address, highlighted that the robbery was well orchestrated, based on the evidence presented at the trial. During their trial, Kissoon, formerly of Kaneville, East Bank Demerara and King, formerly of Savage Street North-East La Penitence, Georgetown, were represented by lawyers Adrian Thompson and Lyndon Amsterdam, respectively. Prosecutor Gibbs stressed the prevalence of these sorts of offences in society, while pointing out that the court has a duty, not only to the victim, but also to society, to impose a sentence that will serve as a deterrent to likeminded individuals. Justice Kissoon, in hand-
ing down the sentences, agreed with submissions made by Kings lawyer, in which he argued that sentencing is not done in a straitjacket. The Judge said that he is cognizant of the fact that the purpose of sentencing is not only to punish an offender, but to also rehabilitate them. In the circumstances of this case, Justice Kissoon said that the aggravated factors were overwhelming, having considered the manner in which Friday met his demise. In giving a recap of the evidence, the Judge said that there was a great level of premeditation and planning. It was noted by the judge that King and Kissoon committed the crime to obtain money unlawfully. The judge also considered the prevalence of the offence, and the extent of injuries Friday sustained, in arriving at an appropriate sentence. He also considered that both men spent six years in pre-trial custody, the fact that they have no previous convictions, and a probation report which outlined that they are of good character. Justice Kissoon, however, found no mitigating factors, thus, he sentenced them each to serve life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving a minimum of 32 years in prison. King in his address to the court maintained that he was innocent. He said, “I am innocent of this charge. I have never participated in this murder. I have a
family out there that I support.” Between the reported dates of the incident, the men entered the post office where they tied up and physically brutalised two on-duty security guards one of them being Friday. The watchmen were bound and pieces of cloth were stuffed in their mouths. Police reports had indicated that two men entered the compound of the Regional Democratic Council at Lethem at around 2:00 hours on January 18, 2013. The men then broke into five safes using a cutting torch. At the time of their arrest, King and Kissoon were found with stolen cash, a quantity of phone cards, along with other items. Police later discovered the body of Friday. Following reports of the robbery, police were alerted and ranks at the Mabura checkpoint stopped and searched a car during which over $4M was found hidden under the back seat.
By Kemol King A trader who is interested in the light, sweet crude to be sold from the Stabroek Block has given a glimpse of where the oil price will be for the first few months, telling the London-based publication, Reuters, that they expect the Liza projects oil to be traded at US$4-$6 per barrel over Brent crude prices during the first three months. North Sea Brent (or just Brent crude) is an international benchmark based on a competitive set of crudes extracted from fields in the North Sea. The Liza oil will be priced against that benchmark, due to the fact that it is similar in quality. Brent crude is sought after due to its low density and relatively low sulphuric content. It is extracted offshore and is therefore easier to transport than crudes traded against the benchmark, West Texas Intermediate, for which the onshore locations make transportation more costly. Reuters reported that ExxonMobils assay tested the Liza oil at 32 API (American Petroleum Institute) degrees of density and 0.5 percent of sulphur content. “Interested buyers are exploring options to co-load Liza crude with other South American crudes bound for Asia, mainly Brazilian grades,” Florence Tan and Marianna Parraga wrote for Reuters.
While it is difficult to project the price of Brent in late December, or even later months, the price is currently hovering around $64 per barrel, according to Bloomberg. First Oil in early December would have placed the price between $68 and $70 per barrel. But thats not all. The price will go up after three months. During a press conference at National Communications Network (NCN) studio, Director of the Energy Department, Dr. Mark Bynoe explained that Exxon would take the first shipment because of its capacity to refine the first set of oil which often comes up with a lot of impurities. Dr. Bynoe had said that by using its refineries, Exxon Mobil would be able to preserve the integrity of Guyanas oil going forward. ExxonMobils subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) is the lead operator on the Stabroek Block. It has a 45
percent working interest, while Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd has 30 percent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited has 25 percent interest. Hess, according to Reuters, could offer the oil for spot sales, and CNOOC, which has not yet scheduled exports, would ship it to China, whose refiners like using similar medium sweet grades, the publications source said. Guyanas first shipment will be uplifted until late February or March, Dr. Bynoe had revealed. “First buyers would test it, and then prices could go up a little,” Reuters quoted the trader as saying. According to Guyanas Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with Exxon and its partners, S&P Global Platts will conduct analyses and hand over data to Exxon, who will in turn, determine a price to present to the Minister responsible for the sector.
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Friday December 13, 2019
Expansion of Diamond Hospital being touted …as moves apace to improve delivery of services Although fraught with complaints about drug shortages during the course of this year, the Diamond Diagnostic Centre has been offering a high quality of service to the public. At least this is according to Director of Regional and Clinical Services, Dr. Kay Shako. She made this pronouncement following a tour of the East Bank Demerara medical facility yesterday which ended with her observing the need for the facility to be expanded. “The patient load has increased, thus there is an urgent need for the expansion of the hospital, so as to better care for many of the citizens within the community. I want to stress that we understand that the services that are being provided can be improved within this area, and that is why we have visited, so that we can look at the gaps in terms of the services that are being provided. We are hoping that come 2020, there can be improvements for the quality of health services that are being provided,” Dr. Shako said. According to Dr. Shako
Director of Regional and Clinical Services, Dr. Kay Shako too, ensuring that such key facilities operate optimally is important, since the mandate of the Regional Health Services of the Ministry of Public Health is to provide adequate and appropriate health care across the regions. In this regard, she said that the Ministry has been visiting the regional hospitals to ensure that their operations conform to an established vision, which is to ensure that Guyanese are
among the healthiest within Latin America and the Caribbean. She said that with 2019 almost at a close, deliberate moves are apace to look at the gaps in achieving this mandate, by having the health facilities improve their operations in the coming year. “We are seeking to ensure that the services that we provide to the region are upscale, and thus far we have already visited
Mahaicony and Fort Wellington Hospitals, and now we are here [Diamond]... Based on our findings today [Thursday], we have discovered that the Diamond Diagnostic Centre is providing a reasonable level of service for this community,” Dr. Shako reiterated. She noted that there are things that the hospital needs to improve on, but thus far taking into account that it is the first stop in terms of health care delivery from the Timehri International Airport, it has been providing service of a very high quality. “I’m pleased to say that we have a number of specialists at this hospital and that the patients who come here have been receiving quality services,” she said. Turning her attention to concerns that have been voiced about the hospital, Dr. Shako said that the
hospital has on many occasions been plagued with accusations of not having drugs and medical supplies. But according to her, checks on many occasions have proven these to be false. “We would have visited the pharmacy and we would have seen that there continues to be adequate amounts of drugs for the citizens. Of course you would have two or three stocks of drugs [sometimes] but nevertheless, we would have seen that there were adequate substitutes for such drugs,” said Dr. Shako. The Director went on to commend the efforts of the Regional Health Officer, Dr. Quincy Jones, and his team, for what she dubbed as their high level of management performances. Currently, the hospital has some nine specialists. However an Ophthalmolo-
gist on staff has been unable to perform surgeries owing to the absence of some equipment. Dr. Shako took note of the fact that there have been improvements in the Obstetrics and Gynecology department of the hospital, adding there will be some assistance from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation [GPHC] to further improve it. A specialist from the GPHC has also been lending support to the Accident and Emergency Department. She added, “We were impressed with some of the changes that are being made at the hospital, especially in the Accident and Emergency Department, which is one of the most critical areas within the hospital.” The hospital’s theatre is also up and running and, according to Dr. Shako, a number of surgeries are being done, especially general and orthopedic.
Pillion rider flees on motorcycle after fatal accident A sixteen-year-old student of Bina Hill Secondary School was killed in an accident on Thursday morning on the Rupununi access road, Region seven. Dead is Danillo Allicock of Surama Village, North Rupununi. From reports received, the now dead teen and a pillion rider were on a motorcycle proceeding east along the southern side of the roadway, allegedly at a fast rate, and a car was also on the same side proceeding in the opposite
direction. Police disclosed that Allicock took evasive action to avoid a head-on collision, but failed in that attempt. Both men on the motorcycle fell on the roadway and sustained injures. According to Divisional Commander Superintendent Keithon King, the pillion rider then picked up the motorcycle and fled the scene, leaving Allicock lying motionless on the road. A passerby who discovered the unconscious
teen hours later, alerted the Annai Police Station and an ambulance was called. Allicock was then rushed to the Lethem Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Commander King told Kaieteur News that police checks were made at the Secondary school for the missing pillion rider and the motorcycle but both have vanished. Investigations are ongoing.
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Kaieteur News
Canada-based fugitive granted bail on two fraud charges - ordered to report daily at CID Headquarters
The Canada-based fugitive who was arrested two Thursdays ago while attempting to obtain a drivers licence is now on two more fraud charges. A senior police official said that Benvolio Francois Caitanya Valenski, 27, recently appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates Court, where he was granted bail on the two charges. One condition of his bail is that he must report daily at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary. It is alleged that Valenski had visited the Guyana Revenue Authoritys (GRA) offices last week Thursday to obtain a drivers licence. He had produced a Canadian licence, and data on GRAs computers indicated that he was wanted in Canada. Valenski was subsequently handed over to the police. Valenski is among six Guyanese on INTERPOLS wanted list. He is wanted by Canadian authorities for attempted murder; unauthorised possession of a firearm, pointing a firearm, possession of a weapon, use
of a firearm during commission of an indictable offence, discharging a firearm with intent to wound and endanger a life, conspiracy to commit murder, and occupying a motor vehicle with a firearm. Last September, Valenski and a Herstelling, East Bank Demerara resident, Ganesh Singh, appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates Court on fraud-related charges. The charges included forging identification documents and presenting forged documents. Valenski was also identified as Roy Anthony Sewnarine. His address was given as Better Hope, East Coast Demerara. It was alleged that between February 1, 2019 and September 2, 2019, at Georgetown, with intent to defraud, Singh conspired with Valenski, to forge one Republic of Guyana drivers licence in favour of Roy Anthony Sewnarine, purporting to show that same was issued by the Guyana Revenue Authority. It was also alleged that
between February 1, 2019 and September 2, 2019, at Georgetown, with intent to defraud, Singh conspired with Valenski to forge one Guyana National Identification Card in favour of Roy Anthony Sewnarine, purporting to show that it was issued by the Guyana Elections Commission. Also, it was alleged that on September 2, 2019, at Central Immigration and Passport Office, Camp Street, Georgetown, with intent to defraud, Valenski uttered to a police constable, who is an Immigration Officer, one forged Guyana National Identification card #101263701 in favour of himself, and purporting to show that it was issued by the Guyana Elections Commission, knowing same to be forged. Finally, it was alleged that on September 2, 2019, at Central Immigration and Passport Office, Georgetown, for the purpose of procuring a new passport, Valenski signed a written declaration, that he was Roy Anthony, knowing it to be false.
Benvolio Francois Caitanya Valenski (R) and Ganesh Singh being escorted from court last September
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Prisoner charged for allegedly trying to kill fellow murder accused Murder accused Wayne Gilbert now finds himself charged for allegedly attempting to take the life of another inmate. Gilbert appeared yesterday in the Bartica Magistrates Court, where he was charged for the attempted murder of Rickford Jones, 28. The incident occurred at around 07.00 on Wednesday in the B Watch section of the Mazaruni Prison, where both men are incarcerated for murder. It is alleged that Gilbert was in Cell Three on Tuesday, when he allegedly heard Jones and two other men in Cell Four saying that they would kill him in the morning. Around 07.00 hrs the following day, when the B Watch section was opened for prisoners to have breakfast, Jones, the plotter, allegedly stabbed Gilbert on the right hand. A scuffle ensued dur-
Wayne Gilbert ing which Gilbert, the victim, managed to gain the upper hand. He allegedly stabbed Jones to the elbow, shoulder and left side. Jones was admitted to the Bartica Hospital. Prison officials said that while his condition was not deemed to be serious,
Wounded: Rickford Jones he was kept for observation. Gilbert was escorted to the Bartica Police Station, where he allegedly gave police a knife. In December 2017, Gilbert, of Lot 30 West La Penitence, was charged with murdering Rawle Rodrigues, during the course of a robbery. In November 2015, Rickford Jones, then 24, of Lot 3093 North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was charged with murdering Christopher Wharton, who was gunned down in North Ruimveldt.
Friday December 13, 2019
Land Policy consultations in limbo for two years By Kemol King The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) has been lagging far behind target on the preparation of Guyanas National Land Policy. During an end-of-year press conference at the Commissions Durban Backlands office, Commissioner Trevor Benn, who gave an update on the bodys work for the year 2019, told reporters that the Land Policy, Planning and Projects Division has supported the “acceleration” of the process for the development of a harmonised National Land Policy and legislative framework, and that consultations with key stakeholders are taking place. This is sure to surprise persons who have been keeping up to date with developments at the Commission for the past few years, as it was in December, two years ago, that Benn announced the organisations intention to prepare the policy and have it completed in the earlier half of 2018. Benn had said that regional and national consultations will also be undertaken before the process wraps up, having the policy emerge out of a highly consultative process. 2019 is almost over, and the consultation stage has not progressed as it should. Commissioner Benn had told Kaieteur News earlier in the year that the GLSC only conducted two consultations, after which, the work was stalled by the other aspects of GLSCs work plan. He had said that consultations would continue in the “com-
GLSC Commissioner, Trevor Benn ing months”, but he could not identify a timeline in which the policy could be drafted. Benn said during Mondays press conference that the absence of a comprehensive land policy leaves a vacuum which is only filled by challenges in tenure security and efficiency for many Guyanese. It has also resulted in unclear responsibilities in land administration and management, and overlapping mandates for Government agencies. The policy is meant to describe a national vision for the land sector, define Government and citizens rights and responsibilities, and set priorities, as well as set out
the legal basis for agencies of the land sector. The Green State Development Strategy: Vision 2040 has much to say about the importance of the policy. The pertinence of the policy to the strategy is far-reaching. The strategy is supposed to guide Guyanas sustainable development for the next 20 years. The GSDS: Vision 2040 states that, as the premier resource, “land requires careful and thoughtful use, with planned allocations in accordance with an agreed framework”. It noted that demand for land is significant and growing from a range of competing economic uses: mining, forestry, agriculture and (Continued on page 30)
Friday December 13, 2019
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Friday December 13, 2019
Guyanese, Yuh ever ask yuhself Why so many politicians on the Oil & Gas industry?
silent
Do you know what happens when private companies strike oil in developing countries like Guyana? The first thing them oil company does do, is fatten the pockets of politicians. The next thing them does do is create confusion, chaos and instability in the country. And while the people fight against each other, them busy shipping away all yuh oil wealth from right under your nose.
Think about it! How many countries were left dirt poor and billions in debt after the oil companies left their shores? Ask the people of the Central African Republic, Burundi or the Democratic Republic of Congo - three of the poorest countries in the world, with massive oil resources and billions in debt. PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Friday December 13, 2019
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Friday December 13, 2019
Hours after Central Bank warning…
Republic Bank says will compensate customers
A
fter weeks of complaints, Republic Bank has announced plans to compensate customers who suffered as a result of its recent conversion process. The conversion had caused long lines and delays and prompted statements from the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Guyana - the latter is the regulator. Yesterday, hours after Bank of Guyana (BoG)'s Governor, Dr. Gobind Ganga, said on Wednesday that penalties are being explored, and that the Trinidad-owned bank is working on a number of measures. “Importantly, at the bank's Annual General Meeting on December 9th 2019, Chairman, Nigel Baptiste, announced that the bank is working on measures to compensate customers for the inconvenience experienced as result of the conversion to the new banking platform.” The bank which controls the largest market shares, made it clear that it is
reaffirming its commitment to fully resolve all new banking system-related issues by mid-December (this weekend) as indicated. “With ongoing emphasis to improve transaction efficiency, customers can access their accounts via the Bank's Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) where a higher single transaction limit of $100,000 is now available.” The statement disclosed that 82% of the bank's Pointof-Sale terminals are now operable, facilitating customers' payments at merchants, “while we continue to address those outstanding for earliest availability”. At the branches, Republic Bank said it has redirected resources to ensure maximum support with a new swipe card feature greatly reducing the need for completion of vouchers for some withdrawals and deposits. “Payrolls received to date have been processed and we are utilizing currently four payroll
processing options to ensure that our valued customers have on time access to their salaries and bonus payments.” The bank assured that wire transfers are also being processed. “Our customer education efforts and Call Centre support are ongoing, even as we note the steady reduction in the demand for these. Customer Focus remains our priority and we are committed to ensuring that any inconvenience experienced by our customers and stakeholders is resolved soonest.” On Wednesday, Dr. Ganga said BoG is currently exploring ways of sanctioning Republic Bank over the plethora of problems experienced by customers when the institution recently upgraded its digital software. The regulator acknowledged that while it may be without legal standing, it will firstly opt for moral persuasion. The BoG is scheduled to meet today with the Guyana (continued on page 24)
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Since 2017‌
America provided more than US$4M for Venezuelan migrants here
T
he United States has provided nearly US$4M for humanitarian assistance to Venezuelan migrants in Guyana, since 2017. According to the US embassy in Georgetown, funding includes increasing Venezuelans' access to legal status, promoting social integration in host communities, and improving support and access to social services. Program Officer Rebecca Alvarado from the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration at the U.S. Department of State visited Guyana between Monday and Tuesday to meet with government officials from the Department of Citizenship, the United Nations and other international program partners. “The visit underscores the U.S. commitment to assist vulnerable Venezuelans and host communities, complementing Guyana's generous efforts to manage
Field Coordinator Millo Yiftach, and Program Officer Rebecca Alvarado the impacts of the crisis in Venezuela by providing critical social services and protection,� the embassy said. For a number of years n o w, t h o u s a n d s o f Venezuelans have fled to Guyana and other countries in the region to escape hardship.
An estimated 14,000 of the Venezuelans are in Guyana. Hundreds of Guyanese living in Venezuela for years have also returned home from that oil-rich country which has been wracked by food and drug shortages and runaway inflation, crime and civil protests.
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Friday December 13, 2019
Anti-piracy tracking system for fishing boats - MARAD announces
A
fter years of talk, it appears that fishing boats will be equipped with tracking devices that allow authorities to up the fight against piracy. For years now, the proposal has been on the table, with fishermen unable to reach agreements with authorities on financing. According to a government release yesterday, Director of Maritime Safety, Captain John Flores, of the Maritime
Administration Department (MARAD), has issued a warning to would-be pirates. He said that the department will be implementing an Automatic Identification System (AIS) to track vessels plying Guyana's waterways. According to Flores, in the event of a piracy attack, a distress signal will be sent to any of MARAD's Maritime Safety Centres, who will provide an exact location to the Coast Guard and Police. This, he noted, will allow for
Authorities have announced plans to introduce tracking devices from next year as part of wider plan to tackle piracy on fishing vessels speedier response time. “I am excited about this new system, because the Police and the Coast Guard will be able to respond faster. As of now, their response is reactive,” he stressed. According to Flores, the new system which specifically targets fishermen has already been tested and is awaiting approval from the relevant a u t h o r i t i e s f o r implementation. “This new system will roll out in early 2020. It is not mandatory that each vessel
equips themselves with the new system. The Automatic Identification System (AIS) will be available countrywide, and we will be working along with the Ministry of Public Telecommunications to make it mandatory in the future, because this is the only way we can effectively tackle piracy and save lives,” Flores stated. In the interim, he explained that the Safety Centres are using a radio system which employs VHF and HF communication.
Republic Bank says will... From page 20 Association of Bankers (GAB) over the matter. Dr. Ganga said he is looking to have legislation in place to avoid a recurrence. He said the regulator has been working continuously with the bank in “addressing the issue to make it more acceptable to public”. According to Dr. Ganga, it is “hoped that when the new platform is in place that they will be able to compensate customers in some way or the other.” Asked about penalties that can be levelled against
Republic Bank over the disruptions to its service, the BoG Governor said, “Republic Bank is forcing us in that direction.” Republic Bank (Guyana) began the implementation of a new banking platform to take effect on November 4, 2019, but experienced countrywide problems and shutdowns that led to thousands of lost man-hours and business transactions. Dr. Ganga told Kaieteur News that the authorities were still assessing the total losses and economic impact of the software glitch.
JUST LANDED
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Latoya ‘Lashes Boss’ Zephyr:
I’ll always be 1000 steps ahead of the game
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here isn’t a soul who can doubt that 27-year-old Latoya Zephyr has earned her place amongst the nation’s most outstanding beauticians. Though she has already served a decade in the industry, Zephyr continues to demonstrate a fierce love for her craft, continues the endless pursuit for success, and an exhibits an unmatched tenacity to always stay ahead of the game while encouraging other women to do the same. But there is so much more to know about this exceptional Cocoa-toned empress of the local beauty world. In this special Kaieteur Entertainment (KE) feature, you’ll be treated to some interesting facts about this 27-year-old entrepreneur and newspaper columnist who recently celebrated three years of having her own business. Do Enjoy! KE: How long have you been a Lash Extensions stylist and what has that journey been like for you? LZ: I have been a Lash Stylist for three years and the journey has been one of much success but not without its challenges. Be that as it may, I am thankful for all the experiences I have gained thus far. KE: What do you think separates you from your competitors? LZ: What sets me apart from what can be deemed my competitors is my passion for my craft. I created the wave of making lash extensions a “thing” and I’m not afraid to say it. From the beginning, I threw my heart and soul into what I believed in which was my “talent” and it shows. I will never consider anyone my competition because I am my biggest critic! Not a single day goes by without me putting effort and energy into improving my craft. And because of that I will always be 1000 steps ahead of the game. KE: What advice would you give your younger self? LZ: I would definitely tell my younger self to breathe. I’d say, “Baby girl, relax and believe in yourself! This life is a journey to be experienced not rushed through.” KE: What has been the most powerful lesson you have learnt as a female
The talented Latoya ‘Lashes Boss’ Zephyr
ent repreneur in Guyana? LZ: I would say the importance of always taking my business seriously. I always admire how men are so committed, to the point that nothing gets in the way of it. Often times I would see females not put their best into their business because of the lack of belief or confidence which shows in how the business is run as well as the final product for clients. We as women need to put as much energy and effort into our business as men do! KE: What has been the biggest lesson as a woman for this year? LZ: My biggest lesson for this year would definitely be me truly trusting God’s timing. Being the over thinker I am, I have often caused myself a lot of unhappy moments because I was always trying to have things my way which isn’t always the best way. Strengthening my conviction has allowed me the privilege to accept my faith and allow God to work. KE: What Philosophy do you live by? LZ: Love and accept who you truly are before anyone and anything else. KE: List five interesting facts about yourself? LZ: I am Christian, I am a proud Buxtonian, I have been a certified Beautician for 10
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fear of being judged. KE: And your favorite places to shop? LZ: Oh well I usually shop pieces from different boutiques. If I see something I like I purchase it. I shop at House of TL, Sassy Styles, Loisanne Boutique, Absolute-fashion and Camegs Fashion House Boutique, among others. KE: What’s your favorite lash style? KE: I would say it’s definitely the cat-eye. It is a favorite for myself and my clients. KE: What’s your pet peeve when it comes to clients? LZ: Well by now, all my clients know what that would be punctuality because of my usual back-to-back bookings. The later the client is for their appointment, the later I will be for the next client. I respect everyone’s time so I expect the same in return. KE: What is your message for women this season? LZ: Learn to take better care of yourself, make your mental health something of top priority (which is something I am also learning to do), and learn to say no! Also, put yourself first sometimes. You cannot help anyone until you first help yourself.....live
to compete in final round of Garage
Karaoke tonight Finals
T
he Karaoke Competition of the Garage Bar and Grill which kicked off on November 26, at its Aubrey Barker Road location will now see 12 talented Guyanese competing in the final round tonight. Kaieteur Entertainment understands that there will be over one million in cash and prizes to be won along with consolation prizes from sponsors such as Ansa McAL and Hits and Jams Entertainment. See you there.
DJ Dauren to host
Wet Fete ” on December 14
Wine of the
Week
years, I am also a certified masseuse, and up until a few months ago I taught myself everything I know about the lash industry and managing a business. KE: What tips do you have for your fellow Lash Extensions Stylists? LZ: Never buy into feeling the need to do better than a peer. Focus on developing your craft, there is always room for improvement. KE: Often times we hear of there being negativity in the female entrepreneurial arena, a tear down behavior and mentality. How do you cope? LZ: The beauty industry comes with a lot of opinions and random comments. I focus all my attention on my work and myself. I try my best not to take strangers’ opinions on my life too personally. KE: You have a great sense of style, how would you describe it and what personal fashion tips do you have for the ladies this holiday season? LZ: I take inspiration from wherever I can. I dress exactly how I want to dress; there is no
The Carlo Rossi Rose
he Carlo Rossi Rose which is distributed by Ansa McAL and readily available at most supermarkets for under $2500, is a refreshing wine with flavours of fresh strawberries and sweet cherries. It can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes, ranging from meat and fish dishes and fruit desserts. The wine has a pleasant mild flavour
and exquisite colour. Carlo Rossi Red and White wines are made from the most delicious grapes from the Central Valley of California. The characteristics of those grapes evolve from year to year but Carlo Rossi wine has always been served in a sturdy glass jug. With Carlo Rossi wines, one can always count on quality and value.
“Bliss: D J Dauren will be celebrating 20 years in entertainment with an event titled “Bliss – Wet Fete” on December 14, 2019 at New Amsterdam Stelling Road, and as he was always promoting local entertainers and their music throughout his career, he will be celebrating his two decades in entertainment with a long line-up of local entertainers. It is the first time that a show will feature this many local artistes in Berbice, and arguably the entire country. The line-up will feature nationally renowned artistes such as: Mystic, Jumo, Kwasi Ace , Steven Ramphal, Jackie Jaxx, Vintage, Saint , Bear Sawse, Wiz Phil,
and Gucci Boss (overseas based Guyanese artiste). Linden will be represented with artistes such as Mike Menace, Black Money and Bam Shell. Several prominent DJ’s, selectors and dancers from Berbice will also be bringing the vibes and energy while Crown Vibes will be covering the full production. This is an event that is truly by Guyanese and these talented artistes will surely need the support of everyone. Be sure to come out for an epic night of entertainment. Tickets are $1,500 (general admission) and $4,000 (VIP) and are available in advance. Prices will remain the same on the night of the event.
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GNBA considers temporary ban for divisive elections rhetoric The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) is considering serious sanctions for errant broadcasters, who continually defy the rules for responsible dissemination of information during the elections period. According to Chairman of the GNBA, Leslie Sobers, while the temporary ban/suspension is not a definite course of action for those found in breach, the authority will use those powers at its disposal. “We have been warning broadcasters to be wary of content, especially during the elections period. The author-
ity does not adopt a harsh stance to errant broadcasters, but if they continue to be defiant in the face of what is at stake during the elections, I believe a temporary ban is a reasonable consideration. We therefore urge broadcasters to act professionally, and to ensure that your programmes and programming are fair and equitable to all stakeholders. The Broadcasting Act has an inherent fairness doctrine which forms part of the conditions of the broadcast licence. We will be holding our broadcasters to those standards and conditions. From now until March
2020, our immediate focus will be on broadcasters’ conduct during the run up to Elections. We will continue to advocate for responsible and fair coverage,” Sobers added. The Chairman stressed that “enshrined in the Broadcasting Act, there is a fairness doctrine, which means that broadcasters, when dealing with controversial issues, must cater for balance and fairness with respect to treatment, time and space allocation”. In addition, the GNBA Head said that the authority has been meeting with officials of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and
the Ethnic Relations Commissions (ERC). Similar to ERC and GECOM, the authority holds the responsibility of monitoring for content that may incite racial hatred, crime/ public disorder. Sobers pointed out that the GNBA will soon be allocating its representatives to work in collaboration with GECOM and the ERC. Further, he noted the need for the code of conduct for GECOM to be reviewed and updated in preparation for the upcoming elections. At a recent meeting with GECOM, it was agreed by officials that in addition to signing on to the media code of conduct, the principles stipulated in the d o c u ment should reflect guidelines for posting content
Chairman of the Broadcast Authority, Leslie Sobers and opinions on social platforms. “The populace is gradually moving away from the mainstream media. Social Media is continuously grow-
ing, and news agencies and broadcasters should be cognizant of the fact that they have influence on their followers,” officials of the GNBA had said.
Auditor General Report on City Hall completed The Auditor General Report into the operations of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown has been completed. City Mayor Ubraj Narine confirmed that the audit which has been ongoing for several months now, has reached the Council for final input. The Mayor noted that the Auditor General had written to the Council to have an input before the file is handed over to the Local Government Commission (LGC). Although the Mayor did not go into the details of the report, this newspaper has learnt that among the issues being queried are millions of dollars which went unac-
counted for at City Hall. The information relates to the $200 million that was transferred to the M&CC for the restoration of Georgetown by December 31, 2016. The Council reported that capital works had spent $131.382 million on five projects, and $42.123 million for the purchase of office equipment and furniture – a total of $173.505 million. Auditor General Deodat Sharma had previously reported that the payment vouchers and other related documents were not presented for audit examination. “We are not getting information since last year to now. I don’t want to preempt, so when we go in there, we are
going to look at whatever they give us and then make a pronouncement,” said the AG in the report Other projects assessed included Constabulary Training School $23.096 million; City Engineers building $13.594 million; Constabulary Headquarters building $12.921 million; Kitty Market: $60.121 million and the Albouystown Clinic $21.580 million. The forensic audit was ordered as part of the implementation of the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into City Hall last year. On November 30, last year, the CoI report was (Continued on page 30)
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56 new public servants graduate from Bertram Collins College
Public Service Minister Tabitha Sarabo-Halley (centre, front row) with other officials and the graduates The public sector is welcoming 56 newly-trained cadets from the third batch of graduates of the Bertram Collins College of the Public Service. Minister of the Public Service, Tabitha SaraboHalley delivered the charge at
yesterdays graduation urging them to be the change agents they were meant to be. “I would like to urge you not to be daunted by what you may or may not see; what you think may or may not exist in the public service. As the visionaries,
your role is a bit different. Your role is to see what exists and take advantage of the opportunities that may be available to you to see how you can make those things that exist if they are not working work in the best interest of the entire
country,” she said. Th e b r a i n c h i l d o f President David Granger, the school exposes its students to a wide variety of subjects and training t o create well-rounded leaders. The former cadets
benefited from six months of academic work in a wide range of subject areas delivered by qualified lecturers. They also toured s e v e r a l regions across Guyana to better understand cultures and, most notably,
were attached to a government ministry or agency for four months. Senior Director. Colonel (ret’d) Lawrence Paul remarked that the new public servants would be the “engine that propels the state move forward.”(DPI)
First Ladys foundation aims to empower teen mothers, other youths The ANIRA Foundation was launched yesterday at the Cara Lodge, chaired by First Lady, Ms. Sandra Granger and involving its Board of Directors. This nonprofit company is dedicated to the education and empowerment of vulnerable groups, particularly targeting teenage mothers, since the rate of teenage pregnancy is high. It allows for the provision of academic assistance to teen mothers. This includes the completion of their secondary education and gives the opportunity for the sitting of CXC examinations and some support to those who are pursuing tertiary education. The foundation has embarked on a project, “Pilots of the Caribbean” with the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Social Protection to reduce the number of vulnerable girls in and out of schools. This is to decrease the rates of HIV and Syphilis among sexually active youths, immunize girls against HPV and increase the number of post-pregnant teens that complete school or vocational skills. The project also aims to create awareness of gender based violence and its ef-
fect on vulnerable womens exposure to HIV. This project which is under the umbrella of SCLAN (Spouses of CARICOM Leaders Action Plan - of which the First Lady is Vice Chair), and is supported by the Gilead Foundation, at a cost of US$251,000. The foundation will also seek to foster a passion for Science, Te c h n o l o g y a n d M a t h ematics, with the distribution of “Robot Kits” to school-aged youths in communities across Guyana, including Hinterland Regions through collaboration with STEM Guyana. The ANIRA Foundation was conceptualised in 2017. Anira is a street in Queenstown, Georgetown, in which the First Lady grew up, and the entity was established because of the recognition of her role as finite, as she wanted to continue the work that she had begun to educate and empower vulnerable sectors. The foundation is funded through donations from private individuals and organisations. Guyana United Youth Development Association of New York contributed
earlier in the year, and this facilitated the purchase of the competition robot and kit for the STEM Guyana Team, while the Pilot of the Caribbean project was funded by Gilead Science, and will commence at the beginning of 2020. The foundation also, through funding, seeks to continue remedial education for Primary school children in Buxton/ Friendship and Lusignan areas. Currently there are 270 students from grades 2-6 enrolled in the programme. This programme has seen an increased in literacy (Continued on page 30)
First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger (centre) with members of the ANIRA Foundations Board
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Friday December 13, 2019
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Friday December 13, 2019
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White Island volcano: New Zealand troops land to recover bodies
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people are thought to be on the island. Eight others have already been confirmed dead and 20 are in intensive care with severe burns. Six of the bodies had been prepared for airlifting off the island and the process of transporting them to the navy ship HMNZS Wellington had begun, Deputy Police Commissioner John Tims said. Conditions on the island
remained favourable, he said. Some 47 visitors from around the world were on the island when it erupted. Twenty-four were from Australia, nine from the US, five from New Zealand, four from Germany, two from China, two from the UK, and one from Malaysia. GeoNet, New Zealand’s geological hazard information (Continued on page 31)
First Ladys foundation aims to... From page 26 rates and four more students who wrote the National Grade Six Assessment gained places in Secondary Schools. ICT workshops for adolescents and out-of-school
youth will be supported by this very programme. T h e A N I R A Foundations Board of Directors include First Lady Sandra Granger, Ms. Karen Abrams, Ms. Clonel Samuels-Boston, Ms. Ingrid Fung, Ms. Evelyn
Hamilton, Ms, Michelle Johnson, Mr. Clinton Kirton, Ms. Patrice La Fleur, Ms. Julie Matthews, Ms. Sandr a Shivdat, Lt. Col. Yvonne Smith, Ms. Joycelyn Wilson and Advisor Dr. Janice Imhoff, M.D.
Auditor General Report on... From page 27 handed over by lone Commissioner Justice Cecil Kennard (ret’d) to Chairman of the LGC, Mortimer Mingo. The report had called for several senior officers to be terminated for their poor management of the affairs of the city; and that where irregularities are found, criminal investigation and charges be laid against defaulting officers.
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New Zealand troops have landed on the White Island volcano to recover the bodies of people who were killed when it erupted on Monday. The “high-speed” operation was launched despite the risk of another eruption. Relatives waited anxiously for the mission’s return after earlier attending a blessing near the island. The bodies of eight
From page 16 transport infrastructure; as well as housing and settlements, drainage, water production, indigenous claims, among others. And through all this,
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there are about a dozen land and/or resource use management agencies that fall under the jurisdictions of various ministries; Natural Resources, Presidency, Agriculture and Communities. They all have a stake in land use and/or resource management. An expanded list includes Amerindian and local government bodies and other agencies. The issue with there be-
ing so many agencies working in this regard, the GSDS notes, is that they all have separate mandates that could, either, overlap or conflict with each other. That issue is one that has existed for many years. The GSDS strategy refers to the need for the land policy to be a guiding policy for those agencies. “This remains urgent.” The strategy notes.
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GNBA records increase in broadcast infractions The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) has recorded an increase in the number of infractions committed by broadcasters. According to information compiled by the authority, the infringements have almost doubled on a monthly basis since the last Stakeholders meeting in August. The GNBA recorded 18 infractions in August, 39 in September; 41 in October and 31 in November. Nevertheless, in his remarks to the 5th Stakeholder engagement held at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre on Wednesday, Chairman Leslie Sobers lauded the positive relations fostered by GNBA, broadcasters and other stakeholders. Sobers specifically mentioned the recently introduced Citizen Monitoring Programme which gives the listening and viewing public an opportunity to be able to lodge their complaints in a structured manner with the authority. “ We h a v e h a d a l s o heartening reactions from the listening public in terms of their
preferences…and though this was not scientifically assessed, the feedback from members of the public seemed to suggest that Broadcasters are not fully aware of their audience’s listening and viewing preferences. I personally have received several complaints from persons of all walks of life against certain broadcasters. “In order to counter any misconception on the part of broadcasters that they are catering for the preferences of a majority of their perceived target audience, we will be conducting audience surveys and will publish the r e s u l t s . We h a v e s a i d t h is before and we urge you to take it seriously.” Sobers said too that although GNBA has still recorded a number of infractions, the authority will be patiently renewing its efforts to persuade broadcasters to adopt a more responsible stance. In this regard, Sobers said the GNBA has held several meetings between its special investigative committee and broadcasters concerning reported
infractions. “The effrontery of broadcasters who have pledged to remain defiant is not harming the GNBA. In fact, they are harming the very audience to which, they believe, they cater. For sure they are casting doubt as to their fitness and properness to be holders of broadcast licences,” Sobers said. Earlier this year, the GNBA recorded that in a period of five months over 150 infringements were committed by broadcasters. The infractions included the breach of good taste and decency, through the use of obscene language in songs and audiovisual content, the use of profanity in movies, irresponsible reporting on sensitive issues, irresponsible programme hosting, and inappropriate graphic content in reported pieces. Back then Sobers had noted that of the 19 registered television stations, and 20 registered radio stations, there were 39 infringements in January, 40 in February, 49 in March, 22 in April, and at least 16 infringements recorded in
May of this year. He stressed however, that as a regulatory body, the GNBA is not taking a big stick approach to ensure compliance. “It’s a step by step process. These broadcasters are given several warnings before any stern action is taken. We try to work with them to point out the flaws and see how we can best help them to improve the
quality of programmes in keeping with the regulations.” According to Sobers, the GNBA has constantly implored broadcasters to use the guidelines for the broadcasting legislation, to work towards achieving quality broadcasting in Guyana. In fact, he noted that several consultations are planned for the next two years in keeping with the
A u t h o r i t y ’s s t r a t e g i c plan. The GNBA Head said that the Authority has been developing strategies to monitor as well as assist broadcasters to be compliant with the rules of broadcasting. “ We a r e a w a r e t h a t there are some challenges, but we have been encouraging broadcasters to, as much as possible, utilise the guidelines… “
White Island volcano: New Zealand... From page 30 site, said on Thursday there was a 50-60% chance of another eruption within the next 24 hours. But families of the victims have been growing increasingly desperate for the bodies to be recovered. “We are now living with a growing sense of desperation to bring home those that we know are there,” Whakatane Mayor Judy Turner told reporters. “The frustration of those families most affected is completely understandable.” Specialists from the New Zealand Defence
Force went to the island on Friday morning to try to recover the bodies. The team, kitted out with protective clothing and breathing apparatus, was flown from a naval frigate to the island on Friday morning local time. If the volcano erupts while they are on the island they could face the danger of magma, superheated steam, ash and rocks thrown at high speed, volcanologists say. During the operation, a geologist is analysing real-time data to assess
whether the mission needs to be aborted. Deputy Police Commissioner Mike Clement told reporters that recovery efforts were going to plan but cautioned that there were “many things that could go wrong”. The operation is expected to take a few hours. The fast recovery means there is less time to collect the evidence needed to ensure that the bodies are properly identified. All of the bodies are within 200m (656ft) of each o t h e r, a c c o r d i n g t o t h e New Zealand Herald.
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Friday December 13, 2019
Arrest warrant issued for Constable after no-show at court A police constable has dug a hole for himself after he failed to show up for his first court appearance at the Reliance Magistrate Court on Wednesday. Richard Persaud was scheduled to appear before Magistrate Peter Hugh to answer to the charge of corrupt transactions by an agent, a charge laid under 337 (2)(a) of the criminal law offences act chapter 8:01.Persaud who is from Number 51 Village, failed to show up to court to answer to the charge and an arrest warrant was issued for him by the magistrate. The case was postponed for the 8th January 2020.
No new spending for Guyana before July next year …election limbo restricts monthly expenditure - Finance Minister By Gary Eleazar
Constable Richard Persaud
STARR Computer introduces AI software to assist in combating crime Starr Computer in collaboration with Digifort Inc yesterday held an event at its Brickdam location, on Surveillance Video Analytics, with the aim of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist in combating crime in Guyana. President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan indicated that as the oil sector begins to blossom, this will attract investors and criminals alike. He stated that as a result, Guyana must take a proactive approach with the use of technology solutions.
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Digifort Inc’s Senior Vice President Business Development and Sales, Arie Hornreich partnered with Starr Computer to introduce predictive software with artificial intelligence (AI) to offer law enforcement agencies, businesses, and individual consumers “modern technology to deter, apprehend and convict criminals. Hornreich highlighted that this new software uses deep learning analytics on data gathering to predict criminal behaviour. He explained
that a number of developed countries have employed the use of facial biometry, “follow me sequence”, weapon detection, license plate recognition (LRP) on a network of surveillance cameras in cities, malls, airports to improve the ability of a person or entity to react to situation promptly. STARR Computer will provide ongoing free webinars and seminars for persons interested in learning more about the benefits of the software.
The David Granger-led administration will have to, in the first half of 2020, curtail its spending to just 1/12 of the total expenditure by the administration this year, for each month of the coming year. This, until a new budget is passed—not expected until sometime in June, and debate and passage some time after. This would also mean that Guyana will, for the first half of the coming year, be unable to embark on any new expenditure that had not been catered for in previous allocations. Finance Minister Winston Jordan on Wednesday detailed the parameters for government next year, when he reminded that a budget would not be passed until the Parliament is resumed, and hinted at some time in June. He said, in the interim, government would be restricted—under the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA)—to 1/12 of the
previous year’s total for its monthly demands in running government. Jordan told reporters that prior to any Appropriation Act being in place, there is provision under the FMAA for the use of 1/12 of the previous year’s voted provision each month, and that this would obtain for as long as a budget is not approved. According to the country’s chief financial officer, it is not expected that a Budget will be passed until perhaps before July of next year. He pointed to the fact that General and Regional Elections are to be held in early March next year, and that “there are things that have got to take place before parliament is reconvened”. The Finance Minister noted that when Parliament is reconvened and the budget is brought to the House, there is a mandatory process that follows, which includes up to two weeks of debate and scrutiny of the proposed
expenditure for the coming year. According to the Minister, between the end of the 2018 fiscal year - at the end of December - and the passage and subsequent assent of an Appropriations Act, then the administration would be restricted in its spending. The Minister disclosed that at present he would be unable to say what the monthly limit would be, since the 1/12 calculation is based on the total expenditure for the year and not just what was budgeted. As such, the Ministry would have to await the tabulation of all of the figures of expenditure for the entire year before a monthly breakdown can be had. It was explained, too, that different agencies have different priorities, and as such, this will have to be taken into account, bearing in mind that recurrent expenditure such as salaries will have to be continued to be paid.
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Friday December 13, 2019
FIFA and European Parliament team up to Dhananjaya de Silva passes 50 as weather limits play address social issues through football
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and European Parliament (EP) President David Sassoli.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and European Parliament (EP) President David Sassoli have agreed to organising a joint event next year with the objective to address critical social issues via football following a fruitful meeting held today in Brussels. “We started a path at FIFA some years ago to invest football into the social side of things because we have a social responsibility and we take it very seriously. But we cannot do that alone, and this is why I’m very happy to be here today to team up with the European institutions in order to make sure that we can use football as a tool for social cohesion, for inclusion, for discussions about topics such as equality, discrimination,
Friday December 13, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) What a relief! Your energy is returning, especially regarding affairs of the heart. Today you'll be freed from the bonds of doubt about your judgment. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) The day ahead is promising! The aspects give a boost to your emotional life and should release you from the recent period of uncertainty that has plagued you. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You undoubtedly have the impression that you're seeing more clearly than in the recent past. The planetary energies are lining up to break up the mental fog that you've been experiencing. CANCER (June 21–July 22) One recent day you had the feeling that your professional projects really weren't your own, but ones that your parents, in particular your mother, wanted you to have. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) It seems like the basis of your social ambition has taken a bit of a beating lately. The planetary energies should give you some new desires. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Here is the day when you may finally accept that you tend to play the role of parent in your sentimental relationships. You're the one who sets limits, organizes things, and takes on responsibility.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Are you afraid that people will no longer understand you? Have you changed too much? Do you have the feeling that you've left some people behind? Yes, it's possible, but what can you do? SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You don't have the same opinions as everyone else. Of course, this is the case for each one of us. But you seem to differ in opinion with people more and more. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You may have been thinking about reshuffling the cards with your mate, unless you've already been offered a new hand. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) There's some likelihood that your emotions have changed in the past six weeks or so. You're no longer attracted to the same people. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) It looks like your emotions are finally back in business! You've been hesitant for the past six weeks or so, unable to make any decisions. You felt unsure, as if you could no longer trust yourself. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) There's some possibility that in the past month or so you've been hesitant about your commitments, as if you'd been in suspended animation. Perhaps you became aware of errors you'd made in the past and were afraid you'd repeat them.
women’s rights, opportunities, free movement, health and climate. Those are all matters that concern football as well as general society, and this is why we have to work together. Next year we will work to organise an event to make sure that these messages can pass in a joint manner,” said the FIFA President. “Football is not only a sport that involves many men and women but it also has a very important social role…We have had an exchange about possible initiatives that we might launch together. FIFA is very active in the social field, working in all continents, it looks as a beacon of social cohesion. It is very proactive for things like culture and respect. It has big roots in Europe but also has an impact on all continent. This is why everybody is looking at what FIFA does and what we can do together to promote these things in the world. The international federation would like to involve European institutions further in its work and we are very happy that this has come up because we would like also to work towards this renewal of FIFA,” said EP President Sassoli. The two leaders also took this opportunity to discuss FIFA’s ongoing reform of the football transfer system. The FIFA President thanked his EP counterpart for the input of the institution and the open exchange in the current process to reform the transfer system initiated by FIFA in collaboration with all football stakeholders. “I was also very happy to report on the work that FIFA has launched concerning the reform of the transfer system. We need to make sure the transfer system is transparent. We are working to implement the recommendations of the European Parliament and the European Commission and I am glad to feel the support of the European institution because this is something that we are doing together for the benefit of everyone, football and society,” concluded President Infantino. “In the name of the European Parliament I would like to thank President Infantino and his team for their efforts towards greater transparency. Football is an important industry, especially in Europe, but like every economic activity it requires maximum transparency. The European Parliament has made important statements in the past about what needs to happen in the world of football and FIFA today is modernising, it is changing, it is looking to the future,” added the EP President.
BBCsport - Sri Lanka reached 263-6 on a rainaffected second day of their first Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. In the first Test in Pakistan since a terror attack targeted the Sri Lanka team bus in 2009, the tourists were 202-5 after the first day’s play. However, just over 18 overs were possible on day two as Sri Lanka added 61 runs for the loss of Niroshan Dickwella for 33 to Shaheen
Afridi. Dhananjaya de Silva was unbeaten on 72 for Sri Lanka when play was called off. The match, which is the first in a two-Test series, is part of the World Test Championship, with Pakistan yet to register any points in the competition. Scores: Sri Lanka 263-6 (86.3 overs): Dhananjaya 72no, Karunaratne 59, Shaheen 247. Pakistan: Yet to bat.
CWI appoints Chris... From page 34 delighted to join the legacy of West Indies Cricket, “I am incredibly excited to join the team at CWI. In particular, I am looking forward to meeting and working with the coaches and coach developers throughout the Caribbean to ensure that all local players have access to inspirational learning environments that
fosters their love of cricket.” Brabazon holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Business Administration, with over twelve (12) years’ experience specifically in cricket. He has functioned in coaching and talent development, as well as cricket management and accounting in his native Australia.
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NBA roundup: Clippers’ Leonard wins in return to Toronto Field Level Media - Kawhi Leonard scored 23 points and added six assists and five rebounds on his return to Toronto, and the visiting Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Raptors 112-92 Wednesday night. Leonard, who led the Raptors to the NBA title last season before leaving as a free agent, was presented with his championship ring in a ceremony before the game. There also was a video tribute. He was greeted with a loud, prolonged ovation. Lou Williams scored 18 points and had eight assists off the bench for the Clippers, who have won five of their past six games. Clippers guard Patrick Beverley left the game with a concussion during the third quarter. Pascal Siakam scored 24 points for the Raptors, who have lost four of their past five games. Norman Powell added 22 points. Milwaukee Bucks 127 New Orleans Pelicans 112 Eric Bledsoe scored 29 points as host Milwaukee won its 16th consecutive game despite the absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo, routing New Orleans. Antetokounmpo, the reigning NBA MVP, sat out the game because of a sore quad tendon, but three
LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) controls a ball as Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) tries to defend during the third quarter. Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports. teammates joined Bledsoe in double figures. Khris Middleton scored 24, Ersan Ilyasova added 18 and George Hill had 13. The Bucks matched their longest winning streak since winning 16 in a row over two seasons in 1973. JJ Redick scored 31, Brandon Ingram had 25 points and 10 rebounds, Jrue Holiday scored 21 and rookie
Jaxson Hayes had 12 points to lead the Pelicans, who lost their 10th game in a row. Sacramento Kings 94 Oklahoma City Thunder 93 - Bogdan Bogdanovic drained a 3-pointer with 17.3 seconds left to give Sacramento a victory over visiting Oklahoma City. Buddy Hield recorded 23 points, six rebounds and six assists as Sacramento won its
third straight contest. Bogdanovic scored 17 points on 7-of-12 shooting. Marvin Bagley III had 11 points and six rebounds in 23 minutes in his return after fracturing his right thumb in the season opener and missing the next 22 games. Chris Paul missed a 15foot step-back jumper with 1.6 seconds left as Oklahoma
City’s season-high, threegame winning streak ended. Houston Rockets 116 Cleveland Cavaliers 110 James Harden scored 55 points to lead Houston to a victory at Cleveland. Harden finished 20 of 34 from the floor and drilled 10 of 18 3-point attempts to help the Rockets overcome a 24-0 Cleveland run that bridged the final two periods. Russell Westbrook added 23 points, seven rebounds and six assists for Houston, which has won five of its past seven games. Rookie Kevin Porter Jr. scored a career-high 24 points to pace the Cavaliers, while Collin Sexton chipped in 18. Kevin Love and Clarkson scored 17 apiece, with Love adding 11 rebounds. The Cavaliers have dropped 14 of 15 games. Los Angeles Lakers 96 Orlando Magic 87 - LeBron James collected 25 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his sixth triple-double of the season as visiting Los Angeles posted a victory over Orlando. Reigning Western Conference Player of the Week Anthony Davis added 16 points and 12 rebounds for the Lakers, who have won 15 of 16 overall and 12 in a row on the road.
Aaron Gordon collected 14 points and 14 rebounds for his fifth double-double of the season, but the Magic dropped their second in a row following a season-high fourgame winning streak. Charlotte Hornets 113 Brooklyn Nets 108 Devonte’ Graham scored 27 of his career-high 40 points after halftime as Charlotte overcame a 20-point deficit and recorded a victory over Brooklyn in New York. Graham shot 12 of 21 from the field and hit 7 of 12 3-point attempts. He became the first Hornet other than Kemba Walker to get a 40-point game since Al Jefferson on Jan. 31, 2014, against the Los Angeles Lakers. Miles Bridges added 14 points for Charlotte. Spencer Dinwiddie scored 24 points for the Nets, who fell to 9-4 without Kyrie Irving (right shoulder impingement). Jarrett Allen added 21 points and 10 rebounds for Brooklyn. Elsewhere, Indiana Pacers 122 - Boston Celtics 117, Utah Jazz 127 - Minnesota Timberwolves 116, Memphis Grizzlies 115 - Phoenix Suns 108, New York Knicks 124 Golden State Warriors 112 (OT), Chicago Bulls 136 Atlanta Hawks 102.
Maxwell, Cummins, Morris part Labuschagne scores third Test ton (43) was out, put on Wagner caught Warner off his in a row Warner of second set at IPL auction 132 with Steve Smith (43). own bowling before he also BBCsport - Australia dismissed Smith, who was ESPNcricinfo Allrounders Glenn Maxwell and Chris Morris, as well as fast bowler Pat Cummins are all expected to fetch big money as part of the second set of players at the 2020 IPL auction, scheduled for December 19 in Kolkata. The auction, a one-day affair, will kick off with a set of seven batsmen which includes Aaron Finch, Chris Lynn, Jason Roy, Eoin Morgan and Robin Uthappa. On Wednesday, the IPL sent the eight franchises the final list of players, which has been trimmed from the original 971 to 332, including 19 Indian capped players. The final list also includes 24 new players that were added after those names were requested by the franchises. The two-dozen strong new list includes West Indies pacer Kesrick Williams, senior Australian journeyman Dan Christian, legspinner Adam Zampa, former Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim, and 21-year-old Surrey batsman Will Jacks, who had smoked a 25-ball century in a preseason T10 match against Lancashire in the UAE. The players have been
grouped as per their specialty, with the auction order starting with batsmen, allrounders, wicketkeeper-batsmen, fast bowlers and spinners. The auction will commence with different sets of capped players followed by the uncapped players. A total of 73 slots are available for the eight teams to fill up, 29 of which could be overseas players. Although most franchises would be aiming to plug some gaps and looking out for backup for key slots, some of the bigger names will be optimistic about securing a hefty payday. Maxwell tops that list. He was among the seven players - along with Cummins, Josh Hazlewood Mitchell Marsh, Dale Steyn, and Angelo Mathews - to list their base price at the maximum of INR 2 crore (US $279,000 approximately). In October, Maxwell had taken an indefinite break from international cricket to tackle mental health issues and made a successful return to club cricket in November. Maxwell, who has featured for three IPL franchises previously, opted out of the
IPL auction last year to focus on the World Cup and the Ashes. As far as the Indians are concerned, most of the attention will be on Uthappa, who has listed his base price at INR 1.5 cr ($209,000 approx). Uthappa has been part of the Kolkata Knight Riders for several years and had even been retained through the right-to-match card option during the 2018 auction. However, the diminishing returns from Uthappa, a 2007 World T20 winner, meant the franchise decided to release him. One man who might fancy going for big money once again is Saurashtra and India left-arm fast bowler Jaydev Unadkat. This week, Unadkat led Saurashtra to victory in the first round of the Ranji Trophy with a match-winning performance against Himachal Pradesh. Unadkat became the most expensive Indian player at the last auction (December 2018) after Rajasthan Royals paid INR 8.4 cr. Incidentally Unadkat had a base price then of INR 1.5 cr. This time, he has listed his reserve price at INR 1 cr ($139,000 approx).
batsman Marnus Labuschagne hit a third successive Test century as the hosts posted 248-4 on day one of the first Test against New Zealand. Labuschagne has the most runs in Test cricket this year and passed the 1,000 run mark on his way to 110 not out. He came to the crease when Australia lost Joe Burns for nine and, after David
Smith and Matthew Wade (12) were also dismissed before the close in Perth. There was a minute’s silence before the day-night match to honour the victims of the White Island volcano eruption in New Zealand. Burns went early when he was trapped lbw by Colin de Grandhomme but the decision would have been overturned if he had reviewed. Kiwi left-armer Neil
caught by Tim Southee. Southee took the last wicket of the day by bowling Wade as Labuschagne, who had scored 185 and 162 against Pakistan in his previous two Test outings, remained unbeaten. Scores: Australia 248-4 (90 overs): Labuschagne 110no, Warner 43, Smith 43; Wagner 2-52. New Zealand: Yet to bat.
Labuschagne reached his century in 166 balls
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ASATT Invitational Swimming Championship T&T MVP Sports on board GFF Super 16 Cup Dorado Speed Swim Club represented by As part of the company’s ongoing support for the development of football and sports in general in Guyana; MVP Sports has made a tangible contribution to the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) towards the successful staging of this year’s edition of the GFF Super 16 Cup which is set to kick off on Sunday at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary. At the entity’s Giftland Mall location, Manager Eon Ramdeo in handing over the cheque said that they were pleased to be partnering with the GFF for a tournament that will feature sixteen (16) clubs, top eight Elite League clubs and the top club from eight of
the Federation’s Regional Members Associations, battling for supremacy. “We look forward to continuing the support not only for this tournament but football in general with the GFF and other sports as well.” GFF’s Youth Development Officer, Brian Joseph in accepting the cheque, thanked MVP Sports on behalf of the Federation for their support and informed that this year’s competition promises lots of excitement as the teams have all been dedicated in ensuring that they are all in tip top shape. Over Four Million Dollars in cash and prizes are up for the taking.
CWI appoints Chris Brabazon as first-ever Coach Education Manager Chris Brabazon
strong 28-member contingent A delegation of 28 persons, including 16 swimmers are in the Twin Island Republic of Trinidad competing at the Amateur Swimming Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ASATT) Invitational Swimming Championship being held by the Marlin’s Swim Club at the National Aquatic Centre in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago. One objective of the club’s participation in the FINA-recognised championship is to attain the “A” Time Standards, as set by the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association, to qualify for the UANA and CARIFTA Games in 2020. The management team is headed by Coach Nicholas Fraser and Assistant Coach Shyka Gonsalves along with Managers Colleen Roberts and Marcel Watson. Guyana is also represented by four other swimmers swimming as a “Guyana-Combined” team and one swimmer from the Dolphin Speed Swim Club. This year the ASATT Invitational attracted four
hundred and twenty four (424) swimmers attached to thirteen (13) swim clubs from six (6) countries, namely: Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Vincent & the Grenadines and Trinidad & Tobago. The Swimming Championship began on Wednesday December 11 and will continue until tomorrow. After participating in the Championship, the Dorado Speed Swim Club will also participate in the Marlins Open Water Invitational this Sunday. On the first day of the championships there were four events on the programme: 1,500m Freestyle, 400m Individual Medley (IM), 50m Backstroke and 200m Butterfly. In the first event, the 1500m Freestyle, Dorado Speed Swim Club started off on a high note with Vladimir Woodroffe and Stephen Ramkhelawan making personal best performances and placing first and second respectively in the male 11-12 years category.
However, they both were unable to attain the CARIFTA “A” Time Standard in this event. Raekwon Noel competed in the 1500m Freestyle male 13-14 years category and placed fourth with a personal best time of 18:05.14 eclipsing the “A” Time Standard of 18":48.25. Continuing with another great performance was Monique Watson who competed in the second event of the day, the 400m IM. Monique won this event in Female 11-12 year category and made the “A” Time with a time of 6:01.01. In the third event of the day, the 50m Backstroke, Kyra Soares placed 8th in the female 9-10 category with a time of 39.56. Athalcy Hunte placed 3rd while also attaining an “A” Time Standard with a time of 34.59 seconds. Monique Watson placed 9th and Brittany Quamina placed 21st in the female 1112 year category. Vladimir Woodroffe won a silver medal in the boys 11-12 year category with a time of 33.10
which was also good enough to better the “A” Time standard for that event. Elliott Gonsalves, Alex Bentham and Tyler Allicock placed 4th, 13th and 22nd respectively in the same event. In the girls 13-14 year category, Maiya Ifill placed 11th clocking a personal best 36.43 seconds. Leon Seaton competing under “Guyana-Combined” placed 8th with a time of 29.86 seconds (an “A” Time standard). Safiya Foster placed 20th in the girls 15 and over 50m Backstroke event. Fitzroy Thom (GuyanaCombined) placed 13th in the male 15 and over 50 Backstroke Event. In the final event of the day, the 200m Butterfly, Elliott Gonsalves won gold in the 11-12 year category also with an “A” Time standard clocking 2:31.55. Ethan Gonsalves clocked 2:40.33, which was good enough for 10th place in the 13-14 year category. Team Dorado continued competing in yesterday’s events which were the 100m Freestyle, 200m Breaststroke, 50m Butterfly and the 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay.
Windies suffer third loss as batting fails again
St. John’s, Antigua - A Level Two (2) coaching course which began yesterday in Kingston, Jamaica signaled the start of the tenure of Chris Brabazon as Coach Education Manager, a new role created as part of CWI’s strategy to strengthen and invest in the development of coaching talent within the region. Director of Cricket, Jimmy Adams, welcomed Brabazon to CWI and highlighted the selection of Brabazon to the position. Adams said, “I am delighted to welcome Chris to the Caribbean where he will be taking up the role of CWI’s first full-time Coach Education Manager. His appointment is a critical feature of our strategic plan to produce world-class players and winning teams
through the development of West Indian coaches.” Adams added, “Chris brings a wealth of experience having held a similar role of Coach Development Manager in Western Australia for the past six years. He has worked at every level of the Cricket Australia coaching development pathway, from grassroots to international level, and is well-placed to drive CWI’s objective of developing our coach education programs. I have no doubt that Chris will play a significant role in advancing our regional game and am very excited to be working with him on improving coaching standards throughout the Caribbean.” Speaking on his appointment, Brabazon was (Continued on page 32)
North Sound, Antigua, CMC – West Indies’ freefall in the Under-19 Tri-Nations Series continued here yesterday with a fivewicket defeat at the hands of England. Once again, their worrisome batting lay at the heart of their ordinary performance, leaving the visitors a mere 117 to chase at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground – a target which they overhauled at the start of the 39th over. The defeat was their second to England and third in four matches, and with just two games remaining – both against Sri Lanka – on Saturday and then again five days l a t e r, a r e i n d a n g e r o f missing out on the final at Coolidge Cricket Ground. Sent in, only captain Kimani Melius with 35 managed to pass 20 and was the only specialist batsman to reach double figures. The innings was destroyed by the impressive new-ball seamer Kasey Aldridge who finished with five for 18 while left-arm spinner Lewis Goldsworthy claimed two for 32. Kirk McKenzie sliced a drive at a full length
delivery from Aldridge and was caught high at first slip in the fourth over without scoring and Leonardo Julien followed in the bowler’s next over, given out caught behind gloving a short ball to the keeper. Kevlon Anderson pulled one from seamer Joseph Evison onto his stumps in the 12th over to depart for two and when Antonio Morris (7) missed an ugly heave at Goldsworthy and lost his leg stump in the 15th over, the innings was coming apart at 41 for four. Opener Melius struck two fours and a six and put on 29 for the fifth wicket – the most productive stand – with Matthew Patrick who made 11, to revive the innings. However, once Melius charged off-spinner Hamidullah Qadri and lost his middle stump at the start of the 26th over, West Indies surrendered their last six wickets for just 46 runs. Ben Charlesworth, who top-scored with 29 off 40 deliveries, then put on 46 for the first wicket with Jordon Cox (24) who in turn added a further 25 for the second with Thomas Clark
Kimani Melius … top-scored with 35. (24), to put England in command on 71 for one in the 20th over. Off-spinner Matthew Patrick intervened with two for 32 as England lost four
wickets for 22 runs to slump to 93 for five in the 32nd over but the target was insufficient to put the visitors under any further pressure.
Friday December 13, 2019
Alacran Jamaica Open
Guyana’s Avinash Persaud tied in 7th spot after day one Ten-time Guyana Open Golf Champion Avinash Persaud is currently tied for 7th position after day one of the Alacran Jamaica Open 2019 which commenced yesterday at Tryall Golf Resort in Montego Bay. He shot 80 with a double bogey on a par 3 and bogeyed the par 5. He is hoping to shoot close to even par and make it to the final rounds in the top three today. He is the only Guyanese battling among 69 top golfers from the USA, Antigua, Canada, Trinidad and Tobago and the host nation. Persaud won the Suriname Open in October and repeated as champion for the tenth time in the Guyana Open at the end of October. His goal is to capture titles in Jamaica, Trinidad and Barbados and to cement his place as the premiere Caribbean golfer
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with the hope of advancing to the world stage. The young player has shown the ability to win under tough circumstances and is proud to represent both his country and his village of Lusignan where he has been playing for more than 20 years. Persaud is one of the top players in the country and hopes that the expertise he has brought to the game will pave the way for other young players to rise to their full potential in the sport. The four day is a test of the skills of the players who are used to playing just two championship days of golf. President of the Lusignan Golf Club Aleem Hussain expressed his gratitude to the team of sponsors who have allowed Persaud to have this opportunity in representing
Guyana and said that it was only a matter of time before Guyana would be hosting world class events in golf. “A lot will happen in the local market in the next year or so that will lift Guyana to be able to compete for major golf events” said Hussain who is certain that the golf landscape will change in Guyana. “The group of supporters who agreed to fund the expenses in an effort to give Persaud and Guyana the opportunity to compete on the international stage cannot ever be fully thanked but their contributions will forever be appreciated and remembered,” said Mr. Hussain. “We are also grateful that our Minister of Sports Dr. George Norton who is fully in support of the development of the game of golf and has been there to assist in many ways over the past few years.”
Lindeners asked to respect synthetic track site - Incidents of theft reported On-going works at the eight-lane Synthetic Track at Wismar, Linden, Region 10.
Trophy Stall is latest company to support KFC Goodwill Schools’ Football - Starts tomorrow at GFF National Training Facility Trophy Stall has thrown its support behind the Petra Organisation for the staging of the 2nd KFC Goodwill Under-18 Schools’ Football tournament which is set to commence tomorrow. At a simple presentation ceremony held yesterday at their South Road location, the entity presented the winning trophies and medals to the Petra Organisation. Co-Director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca who accepted the prizes, thanked Trophy Stall 12/14/2019 13:00 hrs 15:00 hrs 12/16/2019 13:00 hrs 15:00 hrs 12/18/2019 13:00 hrs 15:00 hrs 12/20/2019 13:00 hrs 15:00 hrs 12/22/2019 17:00 hrs Finals 19:00 hrs
for their contribution towards the development of sports in Guyana, adding that their input has motivated the youths. The participating teams are defending champions Shiva Boys of Trinidad and Tobago, hinterland teams Annai and Waramadong Secondary’s and the top three teams from the just concluded Guyoil Under-18 League, Lodge and Annandale and Marian Academy which has replaced French Guiana team, USL
Montjoly. Mendonca stated that this will be a good assessment for the local teams to see where they are as compared to their compatriots abroad. The six teams are being placed in two groups of three and will play each other once in the group. The winner and runner-up of each group will advance to the semi-finals. Matches are set for the Guyana Football Federation National Training Centre at Providence. Following are the Fixtures:
Round Robin Day 1 Training Centre Annai vs Annandale Lodge Secondary vs Waramadong Round Robin Day 2 Lodge Secondary vs Marian Academy Shiva Boys vs Annai Round Robin Day 3 Shiva Boys vs Annandale Waramadong vs Marian Academy Semi Finals Winner of B vs Runner up A Winner of A vs Runner up B Finals Third Place Playoff Loser 7 vs Loser 8
Match # 1 2
Winner vs Winner of 8
10
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Tiger Rentals backs KFC Goodwill Football
Troy Mendonca (right) receives the sponsorship cheque from Tiger Rentals’ Shane Singh. As construction works progress on the eight-lane Synthetic Track at Wismar, Linden, Region 10, contractors have reported multiple incidents of theft occurring at the Bayroc Community Center Ground site. The disappointing reports started since activation of construction in January 2019. The project, which is in the third of its four phases, has been minimally hindered by the loss of a quantity of building materials. These include drainage pipes, sand, security fencing, crusher-run,
stone, steel rods, fuel, truck batteries and even security lights. The Ministry of the Presidency, Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport remains disappointed by the actions of some residents, as these reflect poorly on the Bayroc community, Linden and Guyana as a whole. The Ministry wishes to remind Lindeners that the synthetic track project is a massive multi-million-dollar investment geared at enhancing the community’s athletes. Once operational,
the state-of-the-art facility will undoubtedly attract multiple developments for Linden and its people. As a result, the Ministry expects residents to respect and treasure the facility. The matter has been reported to the police and security reinforcements have been installed. Regrettably, as a precautionary measure, residents of Linden are asked to desist traversing the site. This restriction is being implemented as a means of maintaining the integrity of ongoing works.
During a simple but significant ceremony yesterday afternoon at the Ministry of Education (MOE) ground, Tiger Rentals became the latest company to support the second annual KFC Schools’ Uunder-18 Goodwill Football tourney which kicks off tomorrow. Tigers Rentals, the local branch of Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) based Tiger Tanks brand will also support defending champions, T&T’s Shiva Boys’ Hindu College that will return to Guyana. Operations Manager of the local arm Shane Singh, during the press briefing yesterday commented: “We (Tiger Rentals) want to express our heartfelt gratitude. We are pleased to be on board and we love being implicated in the nurturing of young talent. Tournaments like the KFC goodwill tournament have
enabled the company to understand the importance of team work.” Petra Organisaton, the promoters of the event, through Co-Director Troy Mendonca in his opening remarks posited that, “The Petra organization is very ambitious with this tournament. The tournament is in its embryo stages and in a few years from now, we want to see a plethora of teams from across the region here to participate.” USL Montjoly out of French Guiana was set to make their debut in this edition but it was disclosed at yesterday’s brief that they will not be able to participate, “Due to the unavailability of managerial personnel.” Marian Academy, which finished third in the just concluded Guyoil/Tradewind Tankers Under-18 School League, is the replacement team.
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Friday December 13, 2019
Kaieteur News
Guyana Squash team competitive in Canada A four-member Guyana squash team left the country last week to participate in two tournaments in North America and was very competitive in the Canadian Junior Squash Open which ended on Tuesday at the White Oaks Conference Centre, Niagara on the Lake.The Guyanese will now compete in the US Junior Squash Open from December 14 – 17, in Allston, Massachusetts. The team comprise of Junior Caribbean U-17 champion Shomari Wiltshire, Junior Caribbean U15 runners- up Nicholas Verwey, Junior Caribbean U13 runners-up Mohryan Baksh and Joshua Verwey. The team performed well with Shomari Wiltshire, after finishing sixth in the U-13 division in 2015 and ninth in the U-15 in 2017, advanced to the finals this year before losing to Canadian Gabriel Yun 11 – 4, 4 – 11, 9 – 11, 8 –
11. Wiltshire, seeded 13/16 going into the tournament defeated Canadian Max Shewchenko in the first round 11 – 4, 11 – 2, 11 – 5 and then in the second round defeated his Caribbean counterpart Caymanian Jace Jervis 11 – 9, 12 – 10, 11 – 5. In the round of 16 he found himself matched up against the number 2 seed in the tournament, New Zealander Jack Conder. Shomari rose to the challenge and after a well contested match eventually upset the favorite; winning 4 – 11, 11 – 5, 11 – 7, 12 – 10. In the quarter finals he played 9/12 seed Canadian Griffin Manley and defeated him in straight games, 12 – 10, 11 – 8, 11 – 7. In the semi finals Wiltshire encountered 3-4 seed Canadian Amin Khan. In 2015, playing in the U13 division and a relatively
Vincent and Fraser guide Waramuri Primary to comprehensive win over Santa Rosa Sec. Under overcast conditions and watched by a fair sized crowd, Waramuri Primary School (Secondary Department) defeated Santa Rosa Secondary School by 94 runs when the teams collided in a T10 fixture on Tuesday last at the Waramuri Recreational ground in the Moruca Sub Region. Waramuri Primary were asked to bat and made 157 for one as 13 year-old opening batsman Bruce Vincent who batted with maturity made an unbeaten 63 which included 11 fours and one six. He added 94 for the opening stand with Jason
- Move to USA from tomorrow for US Junior Open
Austin who contributed a patient 26 with two fours and one six. Skipper Nico Vincent joined younger brother Bruce Vincent and kept the scorecard ticking; he made a quick fire unbeaten 39 which contained four fours and three sixes. Paul Partab took 1-27. In reply, Santa Rosa Secondary were restricted for 63-7. Middle order batsmen Kelly Greenidge made 21 and Shamar John contrivuted 13; they were the only batsmen to reach double figures. Alex Frazer was the most successful bowler as he took 3-18 off his two overs.
The Guyana Squash team which is competing in North America. unknown player, Wiltshire upset Khan and then two years later in 2017 when Khan was the number 1 seed in the U-15 category, Wiltshire had a two games to love lead but could not seal the deal eventually losing by three games to two. This year, Shomari won the first game 13 – 11 but dropped the second game 9 – 11. He would win the crucial third game 12 – 10 and then closed out the match 11 – 8 to reach his first Canadian Open final where he Shomari won the first game 11 – 4 but then Gabriel regrouped to win the second game 11 – 4. The third game was vital as most of the time, the winner of this game goes on to win the match. Wiltshire was up 9 – 7, two points away from taking this game but it was not to be as he would lose the game 9 – 11 and the fourth 8 -11 to finish runner up. In the U-13 category Mohryan Baksh finished
ninth place; seeded 5/8, the highest of the Guyanese players in any of the draws, Baksh had a bye in his first round match. In his round of ‘thirty-two’ match, he defeated Canadian Beckett Yuzpe 11 – 3, 11 – 2, 11 – 6. In the round of sixteen he came up against 9/12 seed Canadian Kamran Gwadry. Baksh played well but lost in three close games 10 – 12, 8 – 11, 9 – 11. Due to this loss he then found himself in the second consolation draw where in the quarter finals he defeated Canadian Caleb Hickox 11 – 9, 11 – 5, 11 – 3. In the semis Baksh defeated Canadian Kent Rawlins in a hard fought match 12 – 10, 11 – 5, 5 – 11, 12 – 10 and then in the finals he defeated Canadian Dylan Scott three games to one. Baksh won the first game easily 11 – 6, and then took the second game 11 – 9. He dropped the third game 6 – 11 but bounced back to win the fourth game 12 – 10 to finish in ninth position. In
the U-15 category Nicholas Verwey, who was unseeded, faced Canadian Danny Leigh, an unseeded opponent in the first round. Nicholas had an easy win 11 – 2, 11 – 2, 11 – 4. In his round of thirty-two match, Nicholas opposed 9/12 seed Santiago Medina of Mexico. Nicholas had a few game balls but eventually lost 13 – 15. He won the second game 11 – 9 to level the score but lost the third game 6 – 11 before losing the fourth game 9 – 11. With this loss Nicholas would be placed in the consolation draw played Barbadian Dominic Wilson winning easily 11 – 2, 11 – 4, 11 – 4. In his second round match he faced Canadian Vishaal Mehta and had another good win. After winning the first game 11 – 4, he dropped the second game 6 – 11 but bounced back to win the third and fourth games 11 – 8 and 11 – 9. In the consolation quarters Nicholas played
Canadian Jack Jones and easily won in straight games 11 – 8, 14 – 12, 11 – 8. In the consolation semi- finals Nicholas’s good tournament run would come to an end when he lost to Canadian Jacob Marrison in three games 9 - 11, 9 - 11, 8 - 11 to finish in position 19 – 20. Joshua Verwey played in the U-13 division and in the first round he defeated Bermudian William Frith 113, 11 – 0, 11 – 3. In his round of thirty-two match young Verwey lost to Canadian Kamran Gwadry 1 – 11, 1 – 11, 3 – 11 before losing in the Consolation draw to Canadian Leo Roberge 6 – 11, 4 – 11, 2 – 11. Guyana will participate in the 2019 US Junior Squash Open in Massachusetts from tomorrow; in the U-13 division Mohryan Baksh is seeded 49/64 and Joshua Verwey 65 - 96, Nicholas Verwey is seeded 33/48 and in the Boys U-15 and U-17 categories, Wiltshire is seeded 49 – 64.
Action is the third GAICO Construction Chess Grand Prix at the National Aquatic Center.
Fourth GAICO Chess tourney at National Stadium this weekend
Alex Fraser (left) and Bruce Vincent.
Instead of cricket at the National Stadium it will be Chess as the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) hosts its fourth GAICO Construction Grand Prix tournament. All players are invited to the event that will get underway from 14:30hrs. Registration begins at
12:30hrs and the event will feature seven rounds. Junior players are free while seniors are required to pay $500 each. The time control per player for each round will be 90 minutes plus 30 seconds increment after every move. Intense battles are expected as seasoned chess
players compete to accumulate Grand Prix points to make the Guyana team for the 2020 Chess Olympiad in Russia. The accumulated scores from the four GAICO tournaments would be tallied with the scores of the two remaining tournaments namely the Senior
Championship Qualifier and the National Senior Chess Championship, which are scheduled for the first quarter of 2020. Players with the best scores at the climax of the six rigorous tournaments will then be selected to represent Guyana.
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Friday December 13, 2019
Guyana Police Force believes that Timehri Panthers do not stand a chance
W
i t h t h e G u y a n a Police Force ( G P F ) gearing up to contest Sunday’s feature match of the opening double header of the GFF Super 16 Cup at E v e r L e a r y, t h e l a w enforcement team believes that their opponent, East Bank Football Association side Timehri Panthers, do not stand a chance. Boasting a star studded line up which include guest player, Golden Jaguar, Trayon Bobb, GPF Club Secretary, Ronald Ali shared that while the weather is a
challenge, they are of the firm belief that the Panthers would not pose any challenge for his charges as they aim to win the 2019/2020 edition of the championship. Training he said would have been progressing well for the GFF Elite League side and while they would not be taking the Timehri Panthers side for granted, he has a potent line-up to take them into the quarter finals. Some of the other players on the GPF list are Pernel Schultz, Daniel Wilson, Jermain Junior, Jamal Harvey and William Europe.
Coach Gordon Braithwaite working with the Timehri Panthers team at the GFF National Training Center. Manager of Timehri Panthers, Clayton Lambert Sr., shared that his side team
Dominos action set for Sophia on Sunday Senior Organising Secretary of the Guyana Domino League (GDL) Mark Wiltshire in association with B6 Team will be hosting a dominos competition on Sunday at New Level Sports Bar, Lot 8 C Field Sophia starting at 14:00hrs. Entrance fee is $10,000 and at stake are cash prizes and trophies for the top three finishers. According to Wiltshire the competition is expected to be keenly contested since a number of top teams have already registered. Among them are Mix Up, Gold is Money, All Season’s, Phantom, Spartons, Providence, Turning Point, Fresh Cash, F and H, OPKO, TNT, Gangster, Big Boss and All Season’s Angels.
Organiser Mark Wiltshire with the first place trophy
has been putting in the hours to ensure that they are in the best possible shape ahead of this important first hurdle. They have been utalising their home ground, Timehri Red Ground and the Guyana Football Federation National Training Center at Providence. I n c h a rg e o f t h e i r technical and tactical preparations is former National player, Gordon ‘ U l t i m a t e Wa r r i o r ’ Braithwaite and his assistant,
Colin David. Some thirty (30) players would have been in training before the club narrowed down their list to twenty-five inclusive of their three guest players, Kellon Major, Lloyd Matthews and Colin Seymour. A number of exciting young players would be combining energies with a few seniors as they embark on the journey of winning this prestigious championship. Among them are Ronaldo
Blair, Shanon Samnauth, the Khan Brothers Tyrel and Tyrone, Prince Forde and Ishmael Pulsaram. Lambert stated: “Team confidence is high and the Panthers will like to assure fans that they will give a good account of themselves come Sunday night.” Sponsors on board to date are MACORP, Pegasus Hotel Guyana, HJ 94.1, THAG, Extra Beer & Extra Energy, Impressions, MP Sports, BASIF, NAMILCO, ECV Investments Ltd.
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 13, 2019
GIT Table Tennis tourney set for December 26 The Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT) Youth Department will be hosting a table tennis competition on December 26 at Titans Table Tennis Club, Barrack Street, Kingston. The competition will commence at 09:00hrs and will be played in both male and female categories in Singles Under-16, Singles Open and Doubles Open. Interested players can contact Dr. Levi Percival on 693 4312 or Bro. Dawood Arif on 691 1325 to register.
Trophy Stall 40-mile Cycle Race on Sunday in Berbice
Cycling Coach and Organiser Randolph Roberts receiving one of the trophies from Trophy Stall Representative, Ms. Ameena. The Trophy Stall (Port Mourant Branch) is doing it again as it continues to show it corporate responsibility in sponsoring another sporting event, this time in Berbice. Through the generosity of its affable Managing Director Ramesh Sunich the trophy Stall is teaming up with the Flying Ace Cycling Club (FACC) of Berbice to stage the Trophy Stall 40-mile road race this Sunday.
Action will get going in the vicinity of the Trophy Stall Port Mourant Branch opposite the Gas Station, proceeds to Number 51 Village, Corentyne before returning to the point of origin for the finish. This race is open to Berbice cyclists only and there will be prizes up for grabs in the open, juvenile and 12-14 BMX categories. Prizes will be presented to the first five finishers along with the first three juveniles. The 12-14 BMX Boys will ride for 20 miles from Number 51 to Port Mourant, following the seniors. Eight sprint prizes will be up for grabs. All the top riders of Berbice are expected to take to the road as they renew their rivalry to decide the best among them. The likes of Romello Crawford, Balram Narine, C u r t i s ‘ C h a p p y ’ D e y, Andrew Hicks, Andre ‘Padlock’ Green, Ajay Gopilall, Ralph Sewnarine, Jeremiah Joseph, Mario Washington and David Hicks are among them. This event will be the curtains down on the 2019 season in Berbice; it’s being coordinated by Coach Randolph Robert.
Friday December 13, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 43
Metro Office & Computer Supplies sponsors feature event at KMTC Boxing Day Meet
Cecil Kennard and Prakash Bahadur display the ceremonial cheque in the presence of Sandhya Bhagwandin. Metro Office and Computer Supplies has contributed substantially towards the Kennard Memorial Turf Club Boxing Day Meet which is set for Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne. At a simple ceremony held on Wednesday at their Quamina Street location, the entity handed over $1,875,000 and a trophy. This sponsorship will go towards the feature one mile race which carries a top purse of $1,000,000; the runner-up in this event will take home $500,000, third place $250,000 and fourth place, $125,000. Metro’s Chief Executive Officer, Avee Lindie said they are happy to be part of this event once again adding that this is the 13th year the company has supported the meet which has stemmed from a strong family bond with the Kennard’s, and with his father being a former President of the club. She informed that this donation is coming directly f r o m t h e c o m p a n y ’s
President, Ron Ramnarayan who resides in the USA. President of the KMTC Cecil Kennard expressed gratitude to the company for their input. He said the event is expected to bring out some of the horses such as Don’t Overlook, Lucky Star, Goodwill Boy, TnT, Golden Blue Eco and Just Call Me Boss. The club has been doing a great job over the years to improve the standard of horse racing in Guyana and he reminded that they have put systems in place so that the turfites can be more comfortable on race day. Kennard added that the track is now an all weather track and fans can expect much excitement. Other events listed are L-Non Earner for a distance of five furs and carries a top prize of $130,000 and the runner up $65,000. Two-year old Maiden for a distance of six furs and will see the champion pocketing $200,000 and the runner up $100,000.
UDFA GT Beer Football kicks off tonight at MSC
Topp XX tackle Botafago; Coomacka face Net Rockers
T
he seventhedition of the Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) GT Beer Christmas football kicks off tonight in Linden despite the fact that the UDFA could not being able to confirm the prize monies beverage giants Banks DIH is offering when they met with the participating teams. This uncertainty has led to the reigning champions Eagles United pulling out along with Blueberry Hill but the tournament will still go ahead from tonight at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. A UDFA official said that they were expected to hear from Banks DIH yesterday (Thursday) in terms of what
they are contributing to this year’s championship. Ten teams are listed to compete with the opening matches featuring Topp XX and Botafago from 19:00hrs followed by Coomacka Mines facing Net Rockers in the main attraction. The teams have been placed into three groups; Group A consists of Coomacka, Net Rockers and Silver Shattas, Group B has Hi Stars, Winners Connection and Capital FC while Group C is made up of Topp XX, Amelia’s Ward, Aroiama and Botafago. The playing dates are December 13th, 15th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 26th, 29th – semifinals and the final on January 1st, New Year’s Day.
L-Non Winner for a winning purse of $150,000 and second place $75,000; J and K Lower which will see
the winner receiving $200,000 and the runner up $100,000, and L-Open in which the winner will take
home $170,000 and second place $85,000. Entries will be closed on December 16. The races will be run
under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority and no late entries will be accepted.
rt o p S Alacran Jamaica Open
MVP Sports Sales Representative Ms. Brittany Mathews hands over the sponsorship cheque to GFF’s Brian Joseph in the presence of MVP Sports Eon Ramdeo (left) and GFF’s Keeran Williams.
MVP Sports on board GFF Super 16 Cup
Guyana’s Avinash Persaud tied in 7th spot after day one
Trophy Stall is latest company to support KFC Goodwill Schools’ Football Starts tomorrow at GFF National Training Facility
Co-Director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca accept the prizes from Anjalie Persaud of Trophy Stall.
ASATT Invitational Swimming Championship T&T
Team Dorado during the opening ceremony.
Dorado Speed Swim Club represented by strong 28-member contingent
Avinash Persaud in Jamaica
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