Kaieteur News
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
CURBING SUICIDE AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE The recent death of a Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke-Linden man and the brutal chopping of his spouse is just another alarming feature in Guyana. But as reported, the couple, identified as Malika Hale, a chef; and Alvin Bluncher, a farmer, was heard fighting in their home. The death of the couple resulted from domestic violence. The conclusion is that they stabbed each other so severely that they killed each other. Such deaths could have long-lasting effects on children and relatives who are left to mourn. Deaths by domestic violence and suicide have been wreaking havoc on society for which there is no proper or rational justification. Statistics shows that mostly women are victims of domestic violence. In the case of domestic violence, part of problem lies in the failure of men to recognize women as their equal partners and not their property. Indeed, in days of yore women were considered property. And being property they knew their place. There was domestic violence but that was not even a consideration because men were allowed to beat their spouses. It is estimated that about 30 percent of the murders in the country are domestic-violence related. In the case of suicide, which has become a national epidemic, this has affected almost everyone in society, directly or indirectly. Suicide is not only about the loss of a life, it is a tragedy for relatives and friends who are left with the stigma because suicide stigmatizes a family. It has far reaching consequences for the nation as a whole. It is a very serious social problem with Guyana being portrayed as having one of the highest suicide rates in the world per capita. While data on the suicide rate in the country varies, it is estimated that suicide accounts for about 25 percent of the murders in the country and is common among youths. Guyana has experienced some serious problems over the years, but nothing could be worse than the loss of a young life by suicide or the murder of women by their spouses. They are eating away at the social fabric of society. This truth which is blurred, is a dose of reality for all to grapple with. But as a nation, we must not cower, because deaths in these cases could be seen as an indictment of the government’s failure to address these issues or implement policies to curb them. Public conversations and awareness could help to stimulate action to curb them. Yet for all its efforts a government cannot eradicate suicide. Guyana recognizes its shortcomings. The result is that it is seeking to expand the ranks of the psychiatrists and the psychiatric nurses. With a shortage of psychiatrists and psychologists and trained social workers in the country and without a fully operational crisis hotline, there are very few, if any options for those contemplating suicide or seeking help for domestic violence. While there is no one reason that can explain the shockingly high rate of suicides and domestic violence in the country, health workers have pointed to the poverty and illiteracy, the prevalence of alcohol and drug abuse and rejection in a love affair, among others. The situation is so troubling that Christians have called for divine intervention to curb these horrific murders. Sabre rattling will not help. People, government, organizations, the media, the opposition and all other stakeholders must mobilize and act to save lives. The nation must not surrender or wonder who will be the next victim of suicide or domestic violence.
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 needs a Prosecutorial Commission DEAR EDITOR, I wish to share these thoughts for a more developed legal system in Guyana, especially coming on the heels of the implementation of ‘The Code for Prosecutors,’ aimed at improving consistency in decision-making among prosecutors, purportedly to guide them on general principles to be applied when making decisions about prosecutions. In Guyana, like in many other judicial systems globally, rogue prosecutors f a c e l i t t l e , i f a n y, repercussions, even when there is egregious conduct on their part. They can compromise justice with impunity - and inefficiency. Prosecutors are ministers of justice, and a vital part of the legal system. Any criminal justice system must exonerate the innocent fairly, while convicting the guilty. When any prosecutor consciously disregards that f u n d a m e n t a l d u t y, communities suffer and lose faith in the system. Guyanese must have a forum to be heard while seeking justice, such as a prosecutorial oversight body to hear complaints. This will serve to give Guyanese comfort that there is a system of checks and balances in the criminal justice system, and that they
stand as equals before the law. Such complaints must be exposed to eradicate abuses of power, and will improve our justice system. This commission will serve as a disciplinary entity designated to review complaints of prosecutorial misconduct, enforce the obligation of prosecutors to observe acceptable standards of conduct, and establish reasonable accountability for the conduct of prosecutors during the performance of their functions, powers and duties. T h e p r o p o s e d Commission should consist of a broad range of diverse personnel, including doctors, priests, social workers, humanitarian workers, former judges and magistrates, lawyers, and others, appointed by the leaders of the ruling and opposition parties, and other legislative and judicial leaders. It will receive and investigate complaints of misconduct by prosecutors, and its findings from such investigations will be made available to the public. The Commission should also have the power to remove prosecutors from office, and from further prosecutions. Prosecutors must understand that their duty, primarily, is to ensure justice is served -not to get
convictions. They must only charge if the extant laws have been breached. It is not the function of a prosecutor to legislate, nor create new law. Only Parliament can do that. I know from experience that a rogue or overzealous prosecutor, anxious to ride the publicity and statistics to higher office, will indict if he or she can make the news, even if the laws were not breached. The jury palpably rejected their quixotic and demented theory of the law, and their waste of taxpayer resources. These scoundrels are a blight on the system. In fact, many jurists opine that prosecutors should only proceed with charges if they are convinced that they will secure a conviction beyond a reasonable doubt, although they may have sufficient evidence to support a finding that it is more probable than not that a crime has been committed. That is because civil rights and liberties are sacrosanct, and from a public interest perspective, cases break down at trial. Moreover, they should think long and hard before bringing charges where the evidence is uncorroborated, even if not legally required. Of course, cases consisting solely of a confession by the accused/suspect should be rejected and sent back unapologetically, for a more
thorough investigation by police ranks. As a former Senior State Counsel and Police Legal Advisor at the DPP’s office, I always, unapologetically, sent back weak, uncorroborated cases to be re-investigated. Politics should never influence a prosecutor’s judgment, or his discretion. In my tenure as a prosecutor, our office always held educational seminars for prosecutors drawn from law enforcement personnel Police, Customs, Immigration, for example, to enhance their development in the only Court they were allowed to appear - the Magistrate’s Court. Another facet worth implementing (if that has changed), is having only a seasoned State Counsel represent the State in important proceedings. W h a t a b o u t incarceration? Should Guyana implement other less punitive types and more rehabilitative forms of punishment? Surely that will decrease prison overcrowding, and follow tried and tested reforms that obtain in more developed countries? This surely should be considered also. Albert Baldeo Fmr Senior State Counsel/Police Legal Advisor (DPP’s Chambers)
Public Health Ministry’s supply chain maturity framework is not suited for Guyana DEAR EDITOR, In the December 14th issue of KN, it stated that the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) gets strategic support to boost procurement capabilities from its international partners that will use a supply chain maturity framework as a measure of success. The framework outlines five levels from Canvas to Accredited and in between, there are Bronze, Silver and Gold. The accredited level requires that our health supply chain system becomes privatized or at minimum, a competitive process of public-private partnership (PPP). On this substantive point, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that
a privatized system will provide better service than a Government-operated system. In the world today, the best healthcare systems are m a n a g e d u n d e r Government control, with the most notable being Cuba, Canada and the Scandinavian region. Also this framework has not determined whether Guyana’s unique conditions would allow such a framework to effectively improve the supply chain system. Currently, there are medicines being stored in a bottom house, a decision made by the very leaders of the MOPH, who are currently creating the impression that they are striving for excellence. The PPP Government never
allowed medicines to be stored in such conditions to put the public’s health at risk. Prior to 2015, there was in place, a standard equivalent to the gold level; however, it was downgraded to a lower level after this Government took over. Therefore, the strategic support that now presents itself is simply a means to correct this Government’s incompetence on many levels. A Government-operated health supply chain system has already proven to be successful; the only question that remains is whether we have the right government to manage it. What we truly need is strong and visionary leadership in the healthcare system that understands how to implement a supply chain
system to meet Guyana’s unique conditions. We should not be measured by a framework that lacks the flexibility to recognize our needs as a country. Our success must be measured foremost by the availability of medicines and supplies, through the development of a system that’s organic to our needs and can be effectively managed by the Government. For far too long, we have been receiving consultants who write and copy and paste long policies and guidelines that become ineffective as soon as the consultant leaves. It is unfortunate that this Government did not have the foresight and will to build on the success that the previous Government built in the health sector. Malcolm Watkins
Tuesday December 18, 2018
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Segments of the media have become pathetic and mob-pandering DEAR EDITOR, During ministerial discussions on Budget 2019 on the National Communications Network (NCN), a pattern of media behaviour was highlighted, as it relates to how some sections of the media report on issues, which carry political overtones. It is an observation with which I have had cause to express views on for what I have long ago discerned as sections of this most critical fourth estate of society, becoming a part of the national problem rather than the solution. Let me be very clear, that the respective cabinet officers referred to media reportage with specific reference to matters related to their respective ministries. In my view, and I am sure that they may be of the same opinion, though not publicly mentioned, such a line as mostly taken by sections of the media, since 2015, is part of a larger right-wing plot against the government, in which the media, in bed with vested interests, and political alignment, have set out to discredit the government at every step. One only has to recall the manner of reporting on the GuySuCo tragedy to understand this particular contention. First of all, the Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan referred to the ridiculous allegation, by Opposition Leader, Bharat Jagdeo, unsubstantiated in every way, that the Coalition Government has since 2015, burdened the nation with in excess of 200 new taxes. This scurrilous claim, as was expected, was also mouthed by Donald Ramotar in his frequent fulminations in the media.
It is the legitimate expectation of the public that any media house, which will want to publish such a statement should, first of all, verify its claim; particularly, as in this case, seeking verification from the Ministry of Finance, which is the repository of all such relevant information. This was the Minister’s position when he clearly debunked such rubbish, obviously designed to create disaffection among the business sector and on citizens in general. As to the Private Sector, the nation’s umbrella business organization, it was dumb, and deafeningly silent on exposing such a lie. There clearly is a reason for their pathetic posture that supported and lent toward such an ugly and misleading claim by Jagdeo. And they were dumber still in the face of the criminal state and its gradual burgeoning into a fat, greedy monster. If my memory serves me correctly, neither of the two print journals, including the once respected Stabroek News, which has now become a willing hovel and sanctuary for the nation’s most discredited politicians, and its most dangerous and deceptive liars, ever questioned Jagdeo’s concocted claim of “200 new taxes”. Instead, an attempt was made to take cheap shots at Minister Jordan via an editorial. Of course, the Minister responded very appropriately. The Honourable Minister of Public Security is the other cabinet officer, to whom I referred. It was about crime and the statistics, which he presented to prove that serious crimes in this country have been reduced; and it has, when one takes an analytical look at the figures given.
Crime is an issue in Guyana, as it is in virtually every other country. It explains why, immediately after the Coalition Government came to office, President David Granger requested the British government to re-instate the offer of the Security Sector Reform Programme, which the former PPP/C administration had rejected on nebulous grounds. It is this same initiative that is being gradually implemented under a new leadership of the Guyana Police Force that has commenced changes for a better equipped and professional police force. Of course, the results are there in the form of better community law enforcement relations that have resulted in very quick apprehension of suspects, the dismantling of gangs, and the success in a number of cold cases, among other notable improvements. The latter, are the success stories, which are deliberately being ignored by sections of the media. And, this is very unfortunate, given the number of police–led projects into communities, which have been known as crime hot spots that have had satisfactory impact on lowering the incidence of crime. It would seem a very great contradiction that when statistics was given about the crime situation during the PPP/Cs tenure, it was accepted as gospel by all those who are now claiming that the same statistical methodology, prepared by the same department of the Guyana Police Force, does not correspond to the actuality of the incidence of crime. However, aligned with this dishonest contention, is the notion that crime only becomes crime when it is committed by one segment of our society.
This is, quite frankly, the dangerous imputation of the race factor into a sub-cultural behaviour that cuts across all lines of ethnicity and race; and every day, the evidence stares those persons who continue to peddle this nasty ethnic stereotype, which the anti-government media give support. It is a grave deception that flies in the face of our social reality. There were two separate incidents months ago of very young men involved in acts of very serious crimes, ironically in each, were equal numbers of suspects from Guyana’s two main ethnic groups. Yes, there is a crime situation; but subtly suggesting that the police return to the illegal method of extra judicial killings will not solve the incidence of crime, or offer solutions of any sort. So many young men were reportedly murdered extra-judicially, during the PPP/Cs reign. However, the problems that would have given rise to whatever crimes they would have committed, still remain; totally ignored and unfixed by the very former PPP/C that now finds it deceptively convenient to criticize, now that it is an item on the other side of the House. Since 2015, there have been initiatives undertaken by the government to fashion
a new pathway to life, for atrisk youths. These are the successes which Minister Khemraj Ramjattan expounded, that are not being highlighted by the media. Of course, the reason is not difficult to understand – the perpetuation of a situation orchestrated by Bharrat Jagdeo who proclaimed some time ago that, “crime has never been so bad”. It is a natural Jagdeo reaction of grudge to the Coalition successes of not only reorganising the GPF in every department for enlightened modernization, but retooling its skills and training capabilities that have enabled it to offer a better service to society. I will always support a media that is investigative, objective, balanced, and is prepared to publish/broadcast the truth. It is of vital importance for any media house to understand their vital role is to serve the public interest, rather than being a party to dangerous stereotypes, misconceptions, and other attributes of yellow journalism that do not bring any new and worthwhile thought towards a solution to the particular problems with which we as a nation continue to be confronted. Every day, we bear witness to a type of media that
has sold its publishing soul on the altar of dishonest convenience, and dangerous hypocrisy, as they continue to give succor to a host of monsters who are being assisted to re-emerge from the swamp. Such a media has not brought any good to daily truth, with a view of fair and balanced reporting. Does it realise just how much it is being used to give legitimacy once again to a bunch of the worse crop of politicians ever seen in this country; who have done so much harm to its moral fabric? And to foment a movement to discredit this government despite its many solid achievements since 2015, in addition to the many ills which the PPP/C would have ignored for its twenty-three years in office? In my opinion, the disrespectful cartoon published in last Sunday’s edition of the Kaieteur News, supports my case just how pathetic, and mob-pandering, segments of the media have become. It has become worse than muckraking. Regards Earl Hamilton
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
US$150M renovated airport does not include parking lot A planned handover of the US$150M “expansion” project at Timehri is not going to make the year-end deadline. Rather, according to stakeholders who were taken on a recent tour, the “completion” is expected sometime in January. The news would come as questions continue to swirl about what exactly Guyana is expected to get for what is the biggest ongoing, infrastructural project by the Government.For US$150M, the China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), the Chinese contractor, was to have delivered a brand new twostorey terminal building, complete with skylights and a glass roof, along with provisions for eight passenger air bridges. However, a smaller terminal building is nearing construction at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport
(CJIA). Guyana is only getting four of those eight passenger bridges. Instead of the old terminal building being torn down or used for something else, it has been gutted and renovated. Government has not come out and explained where the huge savings that would have been made from the project have gone to. Rather, they had been quoted as saying that the US$150M will suffice. The project is now almost two years overdue. There are other questions about what is clearly emerging as an overpriced project. For example, the airport project will not have new parking lot when it is handed over. In fact, CHEC was specific in the contract that it will only design a new car park and that the Government will have to stand the responsibility of the parking lot construction. With expected traffic
The old car park area is likely to remain.
increase, the new parking lot would have catered for in excess of 1,000 parking spaces. In the 2011 contract that CHEC signed with the outgoing Bharrat Jagdeo administration, the contractor was responsible for the design for a new car park, internal road area and handling equipment area whose construction will be
You can’t feed your family with trophies DEAR EDITOR, The Kaieteur News front page of Saturday December 15th carries the headline “Detective Sergeant Keith Conway is “A” Division’s “Best Cop”, and the article speaks of some of the “gifts” and “incentives” the Best Cop received. Among the “incentives” received is a measly bicycle, for the honourable services rendered by this outstanding Police Sergeant. Is this the best the Police Force can do for this brave policeman, who “solved many crimes, including murders, ... apprehension of many wanted persons, and dismantling of criminal gangs...”, putting his life at risk every day, to serve and protect the citizens of this
country? The Ministry of Public Security is given “billions” of dollars every year - more this year than ever before - and they cannot afford anything better than a bicycle as an “incentive”, while the government and City Council waste millions of hard-earned tax payers’ money on “Celebrations” and other wasteful ventures, like payment for years for a bottom house “bond” to store drugs which were never there, by the way. We don’t even know if that “bicycle” was given by a “stakeholder” and not even the Police Force or Government. Shame on the Police Force and Ministry of Public Security! No wonder so many
of the policemen and women on the streets have to harass persons daily for a “raise”, in order to survive and feed their families. Salaries of the Police should be one of the highest for public officers, in order to discourage the taking of bribes, which is probably the only way of survival for those who put their lives on the line for us. Don’t get me wrong. I don’t condone taking b r i b e s i n a n y w a y, a n d would refuse to pay policemen when confronted for a “raise”. The point I want to make is they should never be placed in a position to ask or demand a raise from the citizens. A car would have been a fitting incentive for this brave Sergeant, or at least, a nice motorbike. That would make others vie for that ‘Top Cop’ position in every Division every year. Give Sergeant Keith Conway a nice car or motorbike. He deserves it, and even the runner-up also should get more than trophies. You can’t feed your family with trophies. S. Ali
undertaken by “employer (Government).” The contract also said that CHEC would have only been responsible to mark the position of new cargo area and fuel farm in the layout drawings. CHEC would have borne no responsibilities to make the detail design and construction both of which
were to have been handled by the Government.In recent years, there has been increased scrutiny on statesponsored projects and whether the country was getting value for its monies. In many cases, the financing came from loans, leaving taxpayers holding the bill. This particular project has spanned three administra-
tions. Kaieteur News had asked the Ministry of Public Infrastructure for a tour of the airport project but the tour never happened. Officials have said that US$150M project was a fixed-price one that could not easily be modified. In any case, Government has not informed the people of Guyana what is happening.
APNU/AFC’s Budget 2019 failed to address the depressed communities DEAR EDITOR, The Theme of the 2019 Budget ‘Transforming the Economy, Empowering People, Building Sustainable Communities for a Good Life’, can be considered impressive, if those objectives outlined can be achieved throughout the length and breadth of this shattered nation, after almost four years of mismanagement and incompetence of the APNU/ AFC coalition government. This administration has elevated incompetence to the highest possible level where “incompetence” is being worshipped, by the President, Prime Minister, Ministers of Government, APNU/AFC Members of Parliament, whenever and wherever their speeches, attempt to glorify the perceived “good life “. The leader of the opposition Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and opposition Members of Parliament highlighted the inefficiencies, deficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement that existed in the 2019 Budget. The Budget presentation by the Opposition Leader has expanded the cracks to now
huge holes. Region Six can be considered the most affected region in the entire country, since the targeted demolition of the two sugar estates (Rose Hall and Skeldon) leaving its 5,000 workers at the breadline. The people of Region Six were hoping that this 300.7 billiondollar Budget would have at least initiated the revitalization of the sugar industries, subsidized the water or electricity or even created investments that would assist in absorbing the thousands of laid-off workers in Region six. The sugar workers’ situation is worsening every passing day. For example, a few days ago, the water supply for sugar workers (Rose Hall Estate) of Canefield, East Canje was disconnected by GWI for a meagre $3000 dollars, and would need $7000 dollars to be reconnected. With increasing pressure, it can be considered “criminal”, by this government. The central government continues to trample regional authorities in executing projects in the region because
of the fear of the region, exposing their corruption. Millions are being spent for the installation and maintenance of streetlights in Region Six, but unfortunately as soon as you cross the Berbice Bridge, a road block welcomes you, but only three of the fifteen street lights are working. As such, you cannot even see the police or the road barriers during the night. What is even worse is at the Canje Bridge, only five of twenty lights are in working order; the nurses from New Amsterdam Public Hospital use this bridge almost every night. Unfortunately, the various ministers blame the regional authorities for their deficiencies. This Government is trying to build a first world country on a donkey cart economy. Ross Perot said, “The Budget should be balanced, the treasury should be refilled, the public debt should be reduced and the arrogance of public officials should be controlled”. Regards Zamal Hussain
Tuesday December 18, 2018
Citizenry should drive Constitutional Reform- Hughes Holding firm to the view that pertinent constitutional changes are inevitable in order to protect democracy, Attorney- at -law Nigel Hughes, has stressed the importance of civil society being the driving force behind that reform. The promise of Constitutional Reform was made by the ruling Coalition Government. The APNU –AFC Coalition had touted major changes to the governance structure, including separate elections to elect a President and National Assembly members; the capping of presidential powers; and changes to the composition of service commissions, among other reforms. However, the process of achieving Constitutional Reform has been met with a number of delays with both members of the government showing little to no interest in bringing about the change. At this juncture, Hughes stressed the importance of civil society becoming the driving force behind the constitutional change. “It is quite disappointing that neither the government nor the opposition seems to have an appetite for constitutional reform … I believe that it’s the citizens who must ultimately decide on the fate of constitutional reform in Guyana,” Hughes said in an invited comment on the matter. The lawyer noted that Constitutional Reform touches almost every facet of society including issues of women, governance, indigenous rights, legality and criminal justice, and children. “And therefore, it is civil society, which will ultimately benefit from the reform,”
Attorney- at –law, Nigel Hughes Hughes added. This is not the first time that civil society has been called on to drive the issue of constitutional reform. Back in 2017, Civil society groups like RISE Guyana had expressed support for the reform noting that the change takes into account issues such as indigenous lifestyle, daily life, culture, land or even land titles. While specifically addressing why there should be change to the Guyana Constitution, RISE Guyana had emphasized the gravity of Constitutional Reform. “Traditional land rights aren’t addressed in the constitution. Indigenous heritage and livelihood are tied to their land. The land is their home, pharmacy, kitchen and hunting ground. Protections are placed but are not acted on.” The group had highlighted a number of issues that would have to be implemented in a new constitution. These included but are not limited to reduced presidential limits, legislation of cam-
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paign finances, and transparency on salaries above $50,000 to put all monies above board. RISE Guyana, is a nonprofit organisation, which committed to a countrywide push for reforming Guyana’s constitution. “We strongly feel that unless an external force is brought to bear, the politicians would continue to drag their feet and/or institute changes that do not wholly address the problem in its entirety. This is the reason why RISE was formed,” said one of the organisation’s directors, Marcel Gaskin stated at the call for constitutional reform. The group of freethinkers, planned to establish groups across the country and consult with Guyanese to ascertain their basic concerns and find out what types of constitutional reforms they would like to see to address those concerns. “These citizens believe strongly that constitutional reform is critical to achieving executive accountability, racial harmony, and political, social and economic inclusivity,” the group said in a statement. The promise of Constitutional Reform was made by the ruling APNU –AFC Coalition Government. Almost immediately after taking office, Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, set up a steering committee on Constitutional Reform. That Committee, headed by Hughes, had prepared a report on Constitutional reform. The report which was supposed to be used to help guide Constitutional Reform in Guyana was handed over to Prime Minister Nagamootoo, over two years ago.
Nandlall’s Law Reports case…
Lawyers to address Court on legal issues Lawyers for former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, on Friday, December 28, will address the Court on legal issues in a motion asking the High Court to quash the decision of Magistrate Fabayo Azore to overrule a no-case submission in the case in which he is accused of stealing Law Reports from the State. On November 23, last, the City Magistrate called on Nandlall to lead a defence in the criminal matter. The charge Nandlall faces alleges that between May 18, 2015 and May 29, 2015, being a bailee, in the then capacity of Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, he fraudulently converted 14 Commonwealth
Law Reports valued at $2,313,853, property of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, to his own use and benefit. Nandlall who has pleaded not guilty to the charge is out on self bail. Following the Magistrate’s ruling Nandlall moved to the High Court asking for a declaration that the charge for the offence of Larceny by a Bailee contrary to Section 165 of the Criminal Law Offences Act, Chapter 8:01, is an unknown offence, and therefore it is in violation of Articles 40, 144(4) and 149(d) of the Constitution of Guyana. It is Nandlall’s contention that Magistrate (Continued on page 23)
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
High Court grants Govt extension to justify takeover of Berbice Bridge Granting the State an extension to file an affidavit detailing the facts and reasons for Government’s takeover of the Berbice River Bridge, Justice Gino Persaud, who is hearing a legal challenge mounted by the Berbice Bridge Company Incorporated (BBCI) against the action, will begin hearing arguments on January 21, 2019. Last month, the BBCI filed legal proceedings against the Government in the High Court, and served notice on Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, and the Attorney General, the first and second named defendants, respectively, for a statement outlining the decision for the take over the maintenance and operation of the Berbice River Bridge. When the matter came up for hearing yesterday before Justice Gino Persaud, lawyers from the Attorney General Chambers failed to
honour the request made by the BBCI, and as such, was granted an adjournment until next week Friday, December 28, to file an affidavit. Thereafter, the Judge will commence hearing arguments in the matter. The Attorney General’s Chambers is appearing for the State, while Senior Counsel Ralph Ramkarran is representing the BBCI. Amid a 360% increase in tolls, which was demanded by the BBCI, the Government on November 5, last, announced that it was taking temporary control of the bridge in the safety of the public. According to court documents filed by the BBCI, on November 1, Minister Patterson caused to be issued and advertised in the Official Gazette the Berbice River Bridge (Public Safety) Toll Order 2018 No. 42 of 2018, made under Section 11(b)(i) of the Berbice River Bridge Act Cap 51:06 ordering that the func-
tions of the concessionaire, (BBCI), to maintain and operate the Bridge shall be exercised by the Government. The Official Gazette also said that Minister Patterson having determined that the exercise of those functions by the Government is necessary and expedient in the interests of the public during the period November 5, 2018, to the date, the Minister specifies by notice on the cessation of the threat to public safety. It also said that the tolls will be levied and collected and any exemptions shall be the same as those levied, collected and exempted immediately before the coming into operation of the said order. According to the bridge company, by a Concession Agreement dated June 12, 2006, entered into between the Ministry of Public Works and Communications, on behalf of the Government of Guyana and the company, it is
made clear that BBCI shall be obliged at its own expense to operate and maintain the Toll Bridge. The company said that Berbice River Bridge Act also provides that it has the right to specify different toll amounts in relation to the use of the bridge by reference to such circumstances or combination of circumstances as the BBCI may, after consultation with the Minister, determine. The bridge company argued that in a public statement on July 10, 2018, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Surendra Persaud, announced that a toll adjustment was an essential requirement to ensure that it can continue to execute its mandate. In fact, it had applied to the Government for an adjustment on three occasions- March 2015, August 2015 and January 2016, but had (Continued on page 23)
Tuesday December 18, 2018
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Never Late “You are late… again!” said the man with the bright red shirt to his friend who had just entered. “You are a latecomer.” The meeting place was a nice, quiet joint where you could enjoy a drink. The light, however, was poor, which had its advantages. It allowed you to concentrate on what was being said rather than who was saying this. It allowed for voice recognition and association. It allowed for a certain degree of privacy. “Yeah,” chimed in the third man who was wearing a yellow jersey, which looked like it needed laundering. He sounded like an echo, even though he did not repeat what was said. The latecomer dressed
modestly in a white cotton shirt buttoned to the sleeves tried to apologize, but the salvoes just kept coming. “You bring your bad habits here,” the first man rebuked the newcomer. In Guyana, people are hardly punctual, but here time is money. If you are late, you are shown the gate. Time is money and money is time here.” He scratched as if an afterthought. Then placed one of his fingers in his nose and made two semi circles. It was hardly noticeable in the dim light. The second fellow chimed in again, “The only two things that start on time in Guyana is cricket and funerals.” The first man, interjected, “I once saw a Test match start late in Guyana!”
“Impossible!” said the second man. “No Test match ever started late in Guyana.” “Yes,” insisted the first man. “This match was two hours late.” “Nah, you are mistaken said his friend. What were the names of the teams? And when did this match take place?” “I cannot remember those details. It was a long time ago.” “So how come you remembered that it was late when you cannot even remember the teams or when it was played.” “I remember because it started late. There was rain on that day. The toss was spun near to one o’clock and the match started half an hour
Dem boys seh ...
Jagdeo is a tax dodger and a cheat Donald Trump refuse to release he tax records. Why would anybody want to refuse to reveal you tax records? It got to be dat you got things to hide and you is a crook. Donald Trump is not de only one. Spin de map to Guyana and we find Jagdeo just as cockish or even worse than Trump. Dis man was the Minister of Finance fuh almost 20 years because when he was president, he never give up de portfolio. Dis is a man who start wukking at de Finance Ministry riding a bicycle. He was living in Campbellville in a rent house. Just imagine from then to now, dis man got he mansion at Pradoville wha worth in excess of $200 million. He got anodda Queenstown property wha worth more than $100 million. He buy dis one from, he friend Brian James. Dem boys want to believe is some underhand deal dem do. Jagdeo collecting big fat US dollar in rent every month and he got de nerve to tell de nation dat he don’t pay taxes and he don’t intend to pay taxes because he was president. Dis man telling Guyana dat he can buy a business place in Guyana and compete. He can open
a brewery like Banks DIH or a distillery like DDL. He can import de raw material and pay not tax whatsoever, operate de business, mek profits and pay no taxes. Dem boys want to know which constitution he read dat allows an ex-president to earn money after he lef de office. Only he pension is tax-free. Any odda money he earn, according to de tax laws, whether ee guh pon ee knees and hands on de floor to earn it, is taxable. Dem boys hope Statia go after Jagdeo like how he, Jagdeo, use to go after people using Sat-R. Dem boys will never forget how he mek Freddie pay taxes on some old furniture de man had in ee house. De man even pay pon ee old stove and fridge. Dem boys want tell Statia dat Jagdeo got furniture specially imported from Italy since ee stop being president and ee never pay tax pon dem. De tax man got to do a forensic audit on Jagdeo and expose his wealth. Dem boys hear he own Belvedere wha bun down in Camp Street. Dem boys believe dat he do a deal wid dat, too. Talk half and Dem boys wonder which tax law Jagdeo study.
later” “That is delayed not late.” “Delayed or late is the same thing. It started behind time and that means it started late.” “Why did it start late?” asked the latecomer. “Because there was rain,” said the second. “That is not starting late. That is another thing. Cricket does not start late.” “So, guess what is the second thing in Guyana, which always starts on time.” “Political rallies!” “Wrong,” indicated the second man. “Political rallies are always late. They start late and end late. Guess again.” “The newscasts?” “You are close but not near.” “How can someone be close but not near?” “I also know a man who was late for his funeral,” said
the first man. “How is that?” said the newcomer finally finding the confidence to speak. “He was not only late. He was absent. The parlour prepared the wrong body. Was one big confusion. First time a funeral that started had to be pushed back.” “Yeah!” said the second man turning to the newly arrived, “You have not told us why you kept us waiting. “One of these days, you are going to be late for your own wedding,” “Weddings are always late in Guyana,” said the newcomer. “Almost always. Hardly a wedding starts on time. So being late for my wedding will not be unusual.” “Okay,” said the newcomer, “but I know of one thing which no Guyanese is ever late for.” “What is that said the first
man?” “Guess,” said the latecomer” “ The fire service?” “Wrong!” “The police responding to a 911 call?” “Wrong!” “Your flight?” “Wrong, but you are getting closer. This is the one thing that people do not turn up late for; that’s one thing.” “I give up,” said the first man. “I give up,” said the second man. The latecomer stood up. Raised his head and said. “No Guyanese is ever late for his immigrant visa interview.”
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
Kaieteur News
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Dr. Benjie Singh and Bevon Currie: Death came much too soon Last week, the pool of philosophical souls in Guyana got thinner with the loss of Dr. Benjie Singh, of the medical profession, and Bevon Currie of the political society. Benjie was part of my psychic existence. Bevon was a friend who I wanted to mould after who I think I am – a multi-racial Guyanese who loved his people and country and wanted them to see and judge each other as humans not as ethnic numbers. I have known Benjie for forty-one years. My wife knew him for forty-two. It was through my wife that I got to know him.
They worked together as teenage lab technicians at the stateowned Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation on where now stands the Marriott Hotel. As I waited on the seawall at the abandoned Luckhoo Swimming Pool for my girlfriend to come off of work, there would be Benjie coming out pushing his “Big Bertha.” In my boyhood days growing up on Durban Street in Wortmanville, it was more possible to see an elephant playing in the street than a teenager riding a Big Bertha. That was a large bicycle that was always used by older folks. Benjie was
an exception in such a situation. He was doctor to me, my wife, daughter and mother-in-law. I have sent countless impoverished souls who couldn’t afford to pay a private doctor, to Benjie. Always the instruction was; “Tell Dr. Singh, Freddie Kissoon sent you.” On all those occasions, not once did Benjie give them a prescription to fill at the pharmacy. He gave them the drugs himself. Not Guyana, not the Caribbean but the world has lost one of the most professional medical doctors, medicine
Supposedly drunk man crushed by taxi On Sunday last, a 25year-old man was crushed by a taxi along the One Mile Public Road, Wismar, Linden. Dead is Intieaz Mohamed of Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo. According to the Police, Mohamed was run over by a 22-year-old taxi driver of Wisroc Housing Scheme, Wismar, Linden. The victim was reportedly lying on the road in a
drunken state when he was run over by motorcar HC 8814. This publication understands that the hire car driver felt the impact of running over the body. He supposedly thought he “hit something.” He then came out of his vehicle and noticed that he had run over a human being. After seeing the body, the driver quickly retreated to his car and drove away.
H o w e v e r, l a t e r t h a t day he turned himself into the Wismar Police Station with his vehicle. The motorcar was examined and revealed some damage and had blood stains. A post-mortem was carried out on the body of Mohamed and revealed that he died as a result of multiple crush injuries. The body has since been handed over to relatives for burial.
ever graduated. In my long career as media operative, social activist and academic, I can tell you that I know there are doctors in Guyana who are unfit to be professionals. They have a larger income than the profits of DDL and Banks DIH. That is what drives them – money. Benjamin Singh never operated like that. Benjie died leaving his old pick-up truck. He never possessed a heavily tinted, expensive SUV. Don’t take my word for it; just do a check on the types of vehicles lawyers and doctors drive. Those people would starve if they had to live in Canada, Europe and the USA. If there was a doctor that knew what his role had to be in relating to a patient, it was Benjie. He made a patient feel that the doctor personally cared. The clowns and jokers who you have today practising medicine make you sick at how they relate to their patients. On two occasions at the Georgetown Public Hospital, I told doctors that they were unfit to be doctors. I plan to do so again when next I visit the Georgetown Hospital. A mild mannered, modest human,
Benjie was liked by all the other humans whose lives he touched. Guyana will not easily find a replacement for Benjie. I met Bevon Curie in 2011 during the election campaign. He was with the PNC. I was campaigning for the AFC. Bevon rose through the ranks of the PNC; first becoming a leader in its youth arm, the YSM. We became closer in 2012 during the campaign against the electricity hike in Linden. It was in that year that we became good friends. We would meet once a month at his fatherin-law’s hotel on Robb Street. I wanted to guide him deeper in the forestry of independent thinking. Bevon Currie is someone Guyana’s politics will not replace soon. He was born into a multiracial village, Annandale, and I believe that explains why he was such a different political animal. Bevon was just not your average ethnic young man who saw his ethnic party as the vanguard that must rule Guyana. His independent stand on political issues caused the PNC to alienate him. Bevon could not find employment after the PNC government got into power. When I listened to the eulogies at the
Frederick Kissoon church service, I turned to David Hinds and said; “Do you know how badly the PNC treated that young man?” David said that he knows the history of the alienation and so vindictive was the PNC that David said one minister rejected his family’s request to facilitate him to Cuba. It was on the intervention of another minister that he went. I end with two funny incidents with Benjie and Bevon. Benjie said to me; “Why don’t you run for president?” I responded, “Why don’t you?” He replied; “What for?” I said, “Same here.” Bevon said; “Why don’t you run for president?” I replied; “Why don’t you?” He said; “Nah, politics dirty bad boy.”
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Kaieteur News
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LETTER TO SANTA FROM VIBERT PARVATAN DEAR SANTA, It is always my pleasure at this time of the year, Christmas, to write to you seeking gifts for the people of Guyana. I acknowledge with thanks your previous gifts, which were beneficial and appreciated. With recognition of the many problems facing millions of people in our troubled world today, including hunger, poverty and suffering, I will limit this Wish List for Guyana and count our many blessings. This is the Season of peace, joy and goodwill, so where necessary there should be changes. ALPHABETH Instead of the current meanings of: A - arbitrary, alienation and arrogance; B - bureaucracy, bigotry and blame; C - confusion, corruption and confrontation; Your gifts should create new meaning as follows: A - accommodation, affinity and appreciation; B -benevolence, bonuses and blessings C -Compromise, cohesion and civility; LIE DETECTORS Santa, last year, I asked you for gifts of Lie detectors. The need still exists. Such detectors should be placed in several areas including Parliament, City and Town Councils, Courts, police stations, even in churches where people confess. Ho, Ho, Ho! SECURITY CAMERAS Santa, the need is great. Besides on main roads, the Police Stations should be given this gift especially for the interrogation rooms and holding cells. They are needed also in places where persons are paid to provide service to the public. It will be revealing. THE OPPOSITION Santa, being in the opposition in parliament seems very unique and to be a stimulating position. Why? Only when in the opposition do they see need for changes, including the constitution. Whenever the table turns, the demand for review dissipates. COI Over the past three years, it has become fashionable for Commissions of Inquiry to be established to address wide ranging issues and to make recommendations on what positive approaches can be adopted. However, the lack of follow-up in some cases suggests that COI means “Collection of Information.” Ho, ho, ho! CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM A Constitution shapes the legal, social, and cultural landscape for citizens with their rights and privileges en-
trenched. It must ensure the happiness, well-being and protection of every citizen irrespective of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, political association, etc. Santa, unfortunately purposeful unity in Guyana is sometimes compromised by divisionary forces especially by political parties. The power of these political parties arises from an electoral system of “proportional representation” which makes political parties dominant. Santa, the time has come to revert to the “First Past the Post” system, which encourages and empowers citizens to opt to represent their areas. They will behave in a manner knowing that they are accountable to their constituents. NO CONFIDENCE MOTION This has become a very popular political mechanism to put the Government of the day under the microscope. It provokes self-appraisal. It is good to remind the Government in any country that they can be removed if they fail to perform and comply with the laws of the land, abandon their manifesto or lose popular support. In the Guyana scenario, some people are losing confidence in certain areas of activity including: -Crime Control; Ethnic Relations; Parliament; City and Town Councils; Levels of Taxation; GPL; The frequency of “no bail”; The procurement system; Low Levels of Pension; Consolidated Fund Management; Controlling Noise Nuisance; and Judicial Penalties. SECRECY VS. TRANSPARENCY If there is acceptance of the rights of citizens to know of all matters, which can impact on their lives, then decision-makers should readily strive to keep citizens informed. Acts of secrecy often lead to suspicion and claims of irregularity. Santa, your gift must be to make everything transparent. Let the people see everything, including the rising and the setting of the sun. ACTINGAPPOINTMENTS Santa, for many years, we have had a peculiar situation regarding the appointments and confirmation of the Chancellor of the Judiciary and the Chief Justice. The past Chancellor and Chief Justice retired as Actors after several years. At present, we have two ladies of good pedigree acting in those positions. Santa, let your gifts reflect fair play and justice for all persons who administer justice and the citizens who seek justice. CONSULTATION The meaning of consultation seems not clear. Santa, you can give to
decision makers a gift of guidance towards its interpretation and the spirit of compromise, goodwill and mutual respect in discussions. MIS-CONDUCT Santa, the repeated jail breaks and discovery of weapons, narcotics and cell phones in the prisons, clearly indicate that some personnel within are betraying the trust placed on them by Administrators. For the Fire department it was indeed embarrassing to read of our courageous firemen while responding to checks and secure an aircraft which crash-landed, they ended up removing personal items from the pilot and passengers. They yielded to temptation. A similar unusual situation emerged when a few members of the Police Force got playful and removed models of aircraft displayed at an exhibition. Such events tarnish Guyana’s good image of hospitality. Could you bring them Toy Planes? They need something to play with. Ho, Ho, Ho! Santa, the distinguished Jurist, Lord Denning, stated that it is known that crime is committed in the “dark.” He observed that the time has come for us to look not only at those who commit crime, but at those who create the “darkness”. EFFICIENCY? Santa, it was amazing and amusing to read in a newspaper that an Auditor’s Report stated that at a certain Town Council several things happened in one day. A contract was signed for millions of dollars to facilitate infrastructure work. On the said day, there was an issue of certificate of completion; and on the same day, cheques were made out for the full payment of the contract price. Santa, your gift should be to get this event in the Guinness Book of Records. Ho, Ho, Ho! COST SAVIN G-PARLIAMENT According to financial reports, there has been significant increases in the various cost centers relating to Parliament. Santa, in these days of robotics, artificial intelligence and information technology, you may wish to consider giving to the Parliament of Guyana a network system which nullifies the need to meet face to face at one place. In that process, Parliamentarians would not have to go to Parliament. In any case, they do not debate, as when one side is speaking, the other side is absent. The discussions could take the form of a teleconference with all parliamentarians presenting their views in groups at several locations.
If this is done, besides the reduction in costs, commuters would be happy, as whenever Parliament meets, the roads around the Parliament are closed and confusion prevails around the Stabroek Market Square. The minibus operators will also rejoice if this is done. OIL EXPLORATION It seems necessary for psychologists and psychiatrists to explore the minds of the decision makers who negotiate conditions, which govern the Oil Companies that will operate in Guyana. In a number of countries with oil there is harsh poverty plagu-
ing the lives of people. The Sovereign Fund should aim at eliminating several taxes, including VAT, thus giving citizens increased purchasing power and lowering the cost of living. FIT & PROPER The economic importance and the great potential, which oil operations offer, should dictate that accumulated knowledge of the industry, specialized personnel – legal technical and administrative should be involved. They must be fit and proper persons. Ho, ho, ho! THEEYES Santa, a few years ago the
Republic of Cuba funded and established an Ophthalmology Department at Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice. Although critically needed, it has been in-operational for years. The gift for you here is obvious – re-activation. Ho, Ho, Ho! FEES It baffles the mind that rentals for agricultural lands could be increased by over five hundred percent and that the management of the Berbice River Bridge can think of increasing fees by over three hundred percent. Santa please give to those decision (Continued on page 23)
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FOR RENT
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisement, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Installations, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc call Nick 627-3206, 630-1600 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezer-Call: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Royal’s Beauty Salon located @ Parika Highway 2nd floor, Grand Christmas Promotion. Call#697-2780 ACCOMMODATION Secret Villa & Harmony Inn. Fully furnish, air-condition rooms & apartments. 2256337, 668-0306, 218-1400, 6028769, 266-5243-4 HEALTH HERBAL REMEDIES: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, Enlarged prostate, Kidney,Gall stones & Arthritis etc. Call Sparman #676-5924
FOR SALE Used zinc sheets in good condition, Approximately 30 sheets, 26 ft length each. Contact Nos: 225-4106/6414952 Empty 20lbs Shell/Tex bottle also Acetylene & Oxygen 5 Leyland DAF Flatbed lorry, owner migrating, #228-5655/ 649-8449 Wholesale: Diesel Generators, Purple onions, Garlic, Bicycles, Baby Prams, Tiger Balm available @ GT Wholesale #655-4303 German Shepherd pups & husky pup for sale. Contact Devi #639-2828/225-3721 Going cheap, great Christmas gift. Black pudding, White pudding, Souse, Pastries, Black cake, Fruit cake. Place orders # 613-5062 1 White toyota raum Tel: 6821285 PROPERTY FOR SALE 22 Hill St, Alboystown $7.5M Negotiable. Contact Shirley McCalmont #718-345-1416 Royston #516-853-4213/6835664/677-9938
FOR SALE/RENT American Pool table. Tel#2770578 Prime land & buildings- 4 minutes’ drive from Soesdyke Junction on the Linden Highway road side. #6523678
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Salon for rental, New Market St, Georgetown, also hair/ nails/barber/massage. Makeup stations for rental #638-1106 1 Apt for rent- Bottom flat for rent, for business. Contact Radica Kassim #264-2639 Lot 7-8 Plantain Walk WBD Mini excavator $8,800 per hour, also Bobcat service available. Tel#623-0290 New 4 Storey Building at Parika (Guyana’s Gateway) near stelling. Willing to divide. Call: 699-4513. Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park $60,000 #641-3318 1-3 bedroom house fully furnished $ 1-2 Bedroom. All modern conveniences. please call: 652-3678 Parking & Proper security available. Newly constructed 2 bedroom house and apt in a safe and healthy environment. Call: 698-6496/ 622-6512 1-3 Bedroom apartment (1 room self contained) Tel: 6821285
Large 3 bedroom classic house in solid condition-all amenities, huge yard, security. Call: 609-7766/2258427. Price neg, Versailles WBD LAND FOR SALE Farm (East Bank) $3.5M Eccles $7M Herstelling $4M & $5M Schnoord $3M Dairy $2M & $3M Tel#656-0701/648-1635 Transported land 11.6 acres. Lot 15 public road. #2 Village W.C.B. Price $18M. Contact 686-4818, 648-7109 Diamond New Scheme, 5th Avenue Double lot (Million Dollar area) $9.2M. Tel#6039700 3/4 Acre in Kuru Kuru opposite the monument with water, light & foundation. Tel#669-6320, serious inquiry only!
WANTED Demerara Bakery Inc. is looking for Distributors, Wholesalers & Retailers. Call us on 266-5847 or email: sales@demerarabakery.com We buy land in Eccles, Herstelling, Farm, Parfaite Harmonie, Uivlugt, Zeelugt, Providence & Dairy Tel# 6117223/651-1969 1 Maid. #225-3234 Wanted land to buy in Parfaite Harmony, Uitvlugt, Tuschen or Zeelugt. Tel: 6421252 Wanted experienced taxi hire car driver at Ramada Princess hotel. Contact# 616-5419/2657075 One maid. #621-3080 Wanted 1 person to look after cattle in Mahaicony Creek. #619-9143/614-8857 Person to work and live on Poultry Farm at Yarakabra. Call: 226-0772/225-9304 One female domestic to work in Trinidad Age 25-35 yrs. Phone#1868-386-5302 1 Experienced Hiab Truck Driver. Contact#650-0402/ 603-1402 Wanted urgently- Male/ Female Security Officers with Security experience. 35-55 Call: 671-4525 Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665/6493750
3 storyed commercial building for sale in Diamond. Contact owners on #6768129/643-8348
LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way. Affordable package. Call: 6445166/691-2561
Tuesday December 18, 2018
Kaieteur News
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL:225-7126/ 2263 6 9 3 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL @YAHOO.COM/ WWW.D OLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL:643-5122/6560087, ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP RATES,SPECIALOFFERS! . CALL: 690-6494 AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807
VEHICLE FOR SALE Nissan Laurel Executice antique car, Nissan Pathfinder 4-door Jeep. Superb condition. Price Neg. Call your price. Tel#609-7766/ 225-8427 VACANCY Vacancy for fuel truck/canter driver on EBD, must have valid license. Call: 592-6113829 Live-in Housekeeper for East Bank, must be able to cook indian dishes & have a clean police record. Call: 685-9668 Female Cleaner, Office & Home. Age 25-50. Call: 2332745 Chef and Assistant cook. Call us on 225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff Street.
Tuesday December 18, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Raid on mechanic’s No more Regular Gas: Minister Felix lauds migrant-support... home unearths rifle Pressure for poor with telescopic lens
Three Corentyne residents, including a mechanic, are now in custody after a police raid found a rifle with telescopic lens. According to the police, yesterday about 13:00hrs, acting on information, ranks in ‘B’ Division searched the
premises of a 51 year -old mechanic of Port Mourant, Corentyne , Berbice. They found two rifles, one with a telescopic lens; also found were 284 live ammunition, nine empty casings, three magazines and a firearm casing.
Trinidad Express - The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries has announced the cessation of the supply of regular gasoline (RON 83) on the local market at this time. Following the closure of the Petrotrin Refinery the last stocks of regular gasoline were distributed by December 7. The demand for regular gasoline has fluctuated between 8000 barrels to 10,000 barrels per month, says the Ministry. The price of regular gasoline was $2.60 per litre, compared to $4.97 for super unleaded, $5.75 for premium unleaded, $3.41 for diesel, and $1 for CNG. At the Carousel Service Station in Cocoyea, San Fernando, where there were long lines every day for regular gas, the supply has run out. A service station attendant said they would no longer be selling the regular gas. Paria Fuel Trading Company which is now responsible for the supply of liquid petroleum
fuels on the local market has informed that imports of regular gasoline (RON 83) would be uneconomical as the volumes are small, the fuel is not a standard grade and is rarely produced by most regional refineries. The Ministry said that regular gasoline (RON 83) has been the fuel widely used by fishing communities. The regular gasoline is also used by hundreds of vehicle owners because it is cheaper that super gasoline. “The Ministry wishes to inform that super gasoline (RON 92) is a suitable and superior replacement and has been used in artisanal fishing vessels without adverse impact. A case in point is Tobago which does not have a supply of regular gasoline (RON 83)”. According to the Ministry, there have been no complaints by the fishing community of Tobago with respect to the use of Super Gasoline (RON 92) in their boats.
High Court grants Govt extension to justify takeover of Berbice Bridge... From page 8 received no replies. Further, the BBCI has now accumulated a loss of $2.8B and now faces bankruptcy. The Chairman said that discussions with the Minister had not achieved any success in achieving any adjustment to the tolls. It was then announced by the
Chairman that such adjustment would take place. On October 11, the bridge company announced increases upwards of 365 percent. According to the court papers, an increase in tolls by the BBCI is not a threat to public safety. The bridge company said
it wrote the Minister on November 6 asking for details that would have helped those findings. The bridge company noted that Section 15 of the Judicial Review Act provides as follows: “It is the duty of any person or body making administrative decisions, if requested in accordance with
this section by any person adversely affected by the decision, to supply that person with a statement setting out the findings on material questions of facts, referring to the evidence or other material on which those findings were based and giving the reasons for the decision.”
LETTER TO SANTA FROM VIBERT PARVATAN... From page 21 makers common sense. Santa, make sure that you say Ho, Ho, Ho and not Ha, Ha, Ha! ILLEGALENTRY INTO GUYANA Santa, when we remember a few decades ago how Guyanese were getting away to other countries because of shortages and a harsh economic environment, it should soften our hearts to those persons from neighbouring countries who are seeking sanctuary in Guyana and in some cases purchasing food items to take back to their homes. Although the laws of the land must be respected, those people deserve special consideration and humane approaches. Dragging them before the Court with hefty fines appears harsh, given their peculiar circumstances. That is called tempering
justice with mercy. I can think of many Guyanese who have extended their stay in other countries and through remittances are up-keeping their families here. Ho, Ho, Ho! MINISTRIES Notwithstanding the perception that Guyana has too many Ministries of Government, Santa, please consider the gift of a Ministry of Labour. THE REAR MIRROR Santa, please give a timely gift to decision makers and leaders in Guyana to dissuade them from looking back in anger and playing the blame game. They need to have vision and to optimize on time which is precious also on human and other available resources. Let us live with the past but not in the past. Ho, Ho, Ho! COMMERCIAL BANKS Many citizens are robbed on leaving Com-
mercial Banks and at their homes after making significant withdrawals. It provokes serious thought. However, citizens cannot do the old practice of throwing a “box hand” and keeping money under the mattress because Criminals invade their homes. Santa, please provide suitable gifts to alleviate that situation. CHILDREN Santa, these days the children have become very sophisticated. They will not want such games as monopoly, snake and ladder, scrabble, dominoes, etc. They are enamored by technology and infected by smart phones so you have a challenge to make them happy. However, many children will benefit having kind, loving and caring parents, guardians, relatives and happy teachers. Santa, they need to be
assured of food and shelter; be guided by religious teachings and have confidence in the future. These must be your choice of gifts. CHOICE OF GIFTS Santa, I did not suggest a specific gift under each category of the problems cited. You may have to take a holistic approach and give such gifts which allay fears, give confidence and bring happiness so that love, peace, goodwill and harmony will be in Guyana and its people, not only at Christmastime, but always. Santa, do have a nice stay in Guyana. Enjoy Guyana’s hospitality and start preparing for Global Warming in the North Pole. Thank you Santa, May God continue to Bless you. Ho, Ho, Ho! Yours sincerely, Vibert Parvatan
From page 13 is followed by assistance for documentation. The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) on the other hand, is working closely with the Immigration Department to improve efficiency in terms of registration. To this end, the UNHCR has procured a number of equipment including biometric scanning devices, scanners and laptops to aid immigration officers at the various ports. Similarly, organisations such as Pan-American
Health Organisation (PAHO) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) continue to lend technical and financial support to enhance capacities of various public agencies to deal with issues pertaining to migrants. Minister Felix, expressing his gratitude, noted that the efforts and progress that have been made as a country and as a Government is due largely to the support of these international bodies. The Committee will resume its fortnightly meetings on January 7, 2019.
Lawyers to address Court on legal issues... From page 7 Azore erred in law when she overruled the no-case submission made by his lawyer and when she failed/ refused to give any sufficient reason for her judgment as required by the Judicial Review Act Chapter 3:06 and that her ruling is contrary to, and in violation of, Articles 40, 144(4) and 149(d) of the Constitution of Guyana. Lawyers for Nandlall contend that the Magistrate’s ruling should be quashed since it is unlawful, illegal, without and in excess of jurisdiction, erroneous in law, unreasonable, null, void and of no effect, and that unless restrained the Magistrate will proceed to hear and determine the matter thereby defeating and rendering the High Court action futile. When the matter was called last week before acting Chief Justice Roxane George, lawyers for the former Attorney General were asked to address the court on certain legal issues, which had been identified by the court. The proceedings deal with the substantive matter—the ruling of the Magistrate and an interlocutory application, which, seeks a stay of the Magistrate’s Court proceedings, until the hearing and determination of the substantive action in the High Court. However, the application for a stay was not seen as urgent by the Chief Justice since the criminal proceedings have been adjourned to January 25, 2019. Justice George said that at the appropriate time, the Court will consider the application for the stay.
CHARGED: Anil Nandlall Nandlall reportedly said that when he took up post as Attorney General, he did so at a loss and it was for that reason he agitated for the State to pay for the Law Reports. He had said that the arrangement received the blessings of then Head of State, Donald Ramotar. However, investigators are contending that because the books were bought with State funds, they cannot be the property of Nandlall. The State should not have entered into such an arrangement in the first place, they contended. The Ministry of Legal Affairs is contending that there is no evidence of an agreement between Nandlall and Ramotar. And even assuming that there was such an agreement, the use of public funds in this manner is a flagrant violation of the Financial Management and Accountability Act (FMAA). Nandlall was charged after the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU), an arm of the Guyana Police Force, completed investigations.
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
Kaieteur News
Two more witnesses testify in Maryann Daby attempted murder PI Two more witnesses yesterday testified in the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) involving businesswoman Maryann Daby, who is accused of attempting to kill a police officer. Maryann Daby, 25, of 127 D’Aguiar Park, Houston, Georgetown, was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on May 13, last, at Albert Street, Thomas, Lands, Georgetown, with intent to commit murder, she attempted to discharged a loaded firearm at Police Constable Christopher Kissoon. She is currently out on $750,000 High Court Bail. Her trial is being conducted before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Yesterday when the matter was called, two police wit-
nesses testified in the matter. The first witness called by the prosecution was Inspector Gordon Mansfield, who told the court that he is stationed at the Court Superintendent Office at Brickdam Police Station. Mansfield went on to tell the court that on May 13, last, he was at the operation room performing duties when he received a called from Constable Kissoon via telephone, who related an incident to him. The witness told the court that after the conversation, he instructed Constable Kissoon to report the matter to the Alberttown Police Station. He later submitted a statement in relation to the matter. The second witness called was Assistant Superintendent Kevin Das, who
told the court that he is stationed at the Brickdam Police Station. He went on to tell the court that on May 13, last, about 08:00 hrs, he and a party of policemen acting on information went to 127 D’Aguiar Park, Houston, Georgetown, where they met with Daby and escorted her to the station. The Magistrate after listening to both witnesses adjourned the matter until January 21, for continuation of the PI. According to reports, on the day in question, Daby and her friends were at the Georgetown Motor Racing and Sports Club. Constable Kissoon, who was off-duty and was at the Club at the time, reportedly heard what appeared to be gunshots.
Miner charged with rape of 9-year-old
Remanded: Shawn Cornelius A miner yesterday made an appearance before Senior Magistrate Faith McGusty in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for allegedly raping a nine-year-old girl.
Thirty-six-year-old Shawn Cornelius, of Bartica, was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleged that during September, he engaged in sexual penetration
with a child under the age of 16. The matter was held in camera. According to information, during September the child was left in Cornelius’s care. It was during that period, Cornelius went home intoxicated and forced himself onto the nine-year-old and raped her. The child then complained to her relatives, who reported the matter to the police. An investigation was then carried out; Cornelius was arrested and charged. The Magistrate remanded Cornelius to prison. An unrepresented Cornelius was instructed to make his next court appearance on January 7, 2019 when he will appear in the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.
While checking for the source of the gunfire, he reportedly saw Daby firing rounds into the air. He said that he confronted her. Daby then allegedly pointed a firearm to the officer’s head and pulled the trigger. Daby is also charged with having an unlicensed pistol along with six live rounds. The attempted murder charge and the unlawful possession of arms and ammunition charges arise from the same circumstances. It is alleged that on May
13, last at Albert Street, Thomas Lands, Georgetown, she had a .32 pistol in her possession when she was not the holder of a firearm licence enforced at the time. It was further alleged that on the same day, she had six live rounds of .32 ammunition in her possession, when she was not the holder of a firearm licence enforced at the time. She denied the charges after they were read to her. She is being represented by Attorney-at-law Mark Waldron.
Charged: Maryann Daby
Demand higher local labour in China –IDB tells Guyana Chinese multinational companies have often been criticized in Guyana and across the Caribbean for having ‘low local content’, that is, not hiring local labour and using only minimal amounts of locally sourced materials in their operations. The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is advocating that this state of affairs needs to change. In one of its reports titled, “Chinese Rise in the Caribbean. What Does It Mean for Caribbean Stakeholders?,” the IDB said that Caribbean states must demand higher levels of local content and seek transfer of skills and know-how when engaging Chinese multinationals. The Bank pointed out that as a result of Chinese firms using low levels of local content, the development impact is reduced especially in the case where the local unemployment rate is high and qualified local talent is displaced or underused. The IDB said it is aware that the argument used to defend low local content is that local firms in the Caribbean generally have low capacity to deliver complex and large-scale projects on time. The financial institution stressed, however, that the “low local content” proposition reduces the spending multiplier effect and does little to build knowhow or add value to local resources. The Bank said it is crucial that the institutional capacity of the host country is strong in monitoring and enforcing compliance with assorted labour, environmental, and consumer safety standards vis-à-vis any foreign investor. It said, “Host countries have to be extra cautious in engaging with companies that either come from home environments with non-uniform application of best standards or who are
still on a learning curve and adjusting to internationally recognized best practices.” The Bank added, “Some Chinese firms have been accused of being more lax in complying with environmental regulations, and given that the majority of Chinese investments are in environmentally sensitive sectors such as energy, mining, and dam and road construction in developing countries, this may pose a reason for concern and make the case for extra efforts to improve enforcement capacity on the part of the host country.” Not only should Caribbean territories demand higher levels of local content and strengthen institutional capacity, but they must also ensure that transparency, accountability, and full appropriation of benefits are overarching goals in any bilateral relationship. The IDB posited that when these elements are missing, the distribution of benefits may be skewed or fail to be realized. It said, “When foreign partners are prone to nontransparency in business practices, this may reinforce the power of corrupt local elites, especially in country settings with compromised procurement systems, weak systems of oversights and audits, inadequate enforcement of anti-corruption laws and a weak press that could serve
as deterrents or countervailing sources of power in the host country.” The Bank added , “According to Transparency International, Chinese companies tend to publish little about country-tocountry operations (revenue, taxes paid, capital expenditures), reveal little about organizational and signed contractual arrangements, such as corporate holdings, interlocking board memberships, political contributions, effective prices for goods and services rendered) and they tend not report on audits and internal anticorruption mechanisms.” It also noted that most Chinese financiers of development projects in developing countries tend not to publish or list on their websites, Environmental Impact Assessments for their major projects in either Chinese or English. The Bank warned that these proclivities and tendencies could pose another challenge for host countries with weak institutions and again point to the need to strengthen their capacity as quickly as possible and aspire for full transparency and accountability. (See link for full report : https://finance.gov.gy/wpcontent/uploads/2017/06/ chinese-rise-in-thecaribbean-what-does-itmean-for-caribbeanstakeholders.pdf)
Tuesday December 18, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday December 18, 2018
Govt. dismisses critics of its poverty alleviation programme BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - CMC – The St. KittsNevis government has brushed aside critics questioning how it intends to finance a programme that would provide nationals with an EC$500 (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) grant monthly. The Poverty Alleviation Programme (PAP) is due to roll out on December 21 and Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris said that it is aimed at households whose income is less than EC$3000. Last week, Prime Minister Harris told legislators during the presentation of the 2019 national budget that the programme was as a result of the proper fiscal management
and investment made by his administration since coming to office three years ago. “I recall when we announced it some said it couldn’t be done, it was a pie in the sky, where will they get the money from? And even now as we will start to pay on December 21 some may still ask where are they getting the money from? “The answer is we‘re getting the money from our resources from our own investment and savings in the bank, we’re not pulling the devil’s tail. That is where the money is coming from and we budgeted for it last year, we put it in the budget,” Prime Minister
Harris said. “So when some persons ask the question where are they getting the money from the answer is in prudent fiscal management of our country that has allowed us to report year after year, four years in a row, surplus, we saved the surplus, built the buffer so when the time was right and we could sustain it we could implement one of the most significant social protection programs in the history of the country,” he added. Opposition Leader Dr. Denzil Douglas has already described the EC$749.3 million national budget as a “mishmash of projects” which would not raising the growth rate over the longterm. “The government the funding for the PAP will be distributed through the Ministry of Social Services, Community Development and Gender Affairs that was allocated EC$33.5 million under the national budget. Prime Minister Harris has not said how much the programme will cost the country or how many households have qualified to receive assistance.
Tuesday December 18, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Guyana leads the way in oil and gas discoveries Guyana led the way in 2018 for new oil and gas discoveries followed by Russia and the United States as energy exploration rose for the first time in three years. West Texas’ booming Permian Basin still drove new oil and gas production this year and that will continue into 2019 and likely beyond, according to new reports Monday from the research firms Rystad and Wood Mackenzie. Pipeline shortages
will slow the Permian next year, but the growth will continue, a report of the Houston Chronicle said yesterday. “Permian mega-deals defined 2018, and we expect more in 2019,” said A n g u s R o d g e r , Wo o d M a c k e n z i e ’s u p s t r e a m research director. “After spending nearly $35 billion on (shale) acquisitions in 2018, the super majors and bigger independents are serious about ensuring long-term success.”
Big Oil majors like ExxonMobil and Chevron are helping lead the way in turning the Permian into manufacturing mode as they add acreage and scale, he said. “Big will be beautiful in the new Permian landscape.” But much of the future of the industry is dependent on big new discoveries and they are still mostly coming offshore. As oil prices crashed, exploration spending dipped dramatically from 2015 through
Sugar area schools receive assistance Seventy-five students from three primary schools located in the vicinity of closed sugar estates were the recipients of donations of school supplies, food hampers and cash through an initiative spearheaded by Ram & McRae, Chartered Accountants. Of the 75, nearly two dozen were also supplied with bicycles, owing to the distance between their homes and their schools. The three schools were the Patentia Primary, Skeldon Primary and Rose Hall Canje Primary and the ages of the children, who were selected
by the Head Teacher of the respective schools, ranged between five years and ten years. The exercise was carried out in the last week of school before the Christmas break and followed a similar event at Patentia Primary School earlier this year. The estimated value of the donations of approximately $2.5 million benefitted from a number of clients and friends of Ram & McRae. “We therefore take this opportunity to acknowledge Republic Bank, National Milling Company Limited, Sterling Products Ltd, Bakewell,
Mattai’s Food Market, Creations December 17, 2018 and Toucan Industries Limited for their generous c o n t r i b u tion.” The presentations were made to the students by partners and members of staff of the Firm and saw many parents in attendance. The school Heads acknowledged the need for many more such initiatives and while expressing the hope that the event will be repeated next year, also lamented how difficult it was to identify 25 needy cases out of scores of similarly placed children in their areas.
2017. However, new discoveries finally began to tick back up this year, according to Rystad. Offshore discoveries accounted for more than 80 percent of the new discoverable resources this year. E x x o n M o b i l ’s p u s h w i t h N e w Yo r k - b a s e d Hess Corp. in tiny Guyana led the way, said
Palzor Shenga, senior upstream analyst for Rystad. “Global exploration activity and discoveries have halted their year-after-year decline and look set to rise in the next year,” Shenga said. “This as an exciting recovery, which runs contrary to a decline in global exploration spending from 2014 to 2017.”
Exxon and Hess announced more than 2 billion barrels in new discoveries offshore of Guyana this year, spiking their overall recoverable resources in the region to about 5 billion barrels of oil equivalent. E l s e w h e r e , R u s s i a ’s Novatek discovered nearly one billion barrels in the shallow Ob Bay.
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
Tuesday December 18, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Australia five wickets away from winning second test
Australia’s Mitchell Starc (3rd L) is congratulated by his teammates after dismissing India’s Lokesh Rahul on day four of the second test match between Australia and India at Perth Stadium in Perth, Australia, December 17, 2018. (AAP/Richard Wainwright via REUTERS)
Tuesday December 18, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your energy and spunk should finally return after a couple days of feeling slightly down, Aries. You should enjoy a good mood all day.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) People may be somewhat selfish and self-centered today, but this doesn't mean that you have to follow suit, Libra. Remind others of the importance of the collective.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Get out of the mud, Taurus. Have fun and don't worry too much about the consequences. Put your to-do list aside for a while and focus on enjoying yourself.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) It may not be the easiest day to relate to others, Scorpio, but as usual, if you just go with the flow, you will find that you can have fun.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your emotions may be volatile right now. There's passion behind your words. You have the power to instigate major changes in your life. CANCER (June 21–July 22) If you aren't careful about the energy you dish out today, you will find that it all comes back to smack you in the face. Other people are likely to be as stubborn as you, so proceed cautiously. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today is a fantastic day for you. You should enjoy a good mood and positive experiences with others. There's most likely a slow-moving, transforming energy in your life right now that's touching off your emotions. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Other people may be demanding of you, so do what you can to please the crowd. Don't go overboard in thinking you need to be someone you're not, and certainly don't do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Things should flow extremely well for you, Sagittarius. Load your engine with extra fuel, because you will be burning red hot. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You need bigger and longer hugs than usual today. A powerful force is moving through your life and trying to shake things up. Don't stoop to the level of petty argument and verbal sparring. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Act with courage today, Aquarius. Dress as if you were going to meet an important statesman. See yourself in the mirror and be proud to say you look good. Take action with confidence and feel free to strut your stuff. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Be conscious of your own needs, Pisces, and feel free to be a little selfish. Give yourself the credit you deserve, and don't let other people bully you into feeling like you aren't worthy of the attention you receive.
PERTH (Reuters) - Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a serieslevelling victory as India teetered in their daunting chase on a menacing pitch yesterday. Chasing 287 runs after closing out Australia’s second innings for 243, India finished day four on 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine. Struggling on the Perth Stadium pitch marked by widening cracks, India made a poor start losing the key wickets of Lokesh Rahul for a fourth-ball duck and Cheteshwar Pujara, their first test hero in Adelaide, for four. India’s faint hopes rested on captain Virat Kohli who counter-attacked with several flowing drives in reminiscent fashion to his masterful first innings of 123. Kohli combined with opener Murali Vijay to stabilise India before he edged a straight Nathan Lyon delivery to Usman Khawaja at slip for 17, sparking scenes of jubilation from the Australian players. The off-spinner claimed the India talisman for a record seventh time, the most by a bowler, and in his next over bowled Vijay for 20 off an inside edge. Ajinkya Rahane played
KFC Mega Cup comes... From page 34 shifter kart event had an anticlimactic end to an otherwise interesting battle. A four wide pileup of drivers in the hairpin corner of the track left one kart out and the other in serious need of repair. A show of sportsmanship from the Guyanese Trio of Calvin Ming, Kristian Jeffrey and Stefan Jeffrey allowed a 15minute break for mechanics to fix Colin Daley’s kart. On the restart however, the Jeffrey cousins would depart before they gave any meaningful competition; Stefan flying off into the tyres after contact and Kristian retiring with mechanical damage, leaving Calvin Ming to win ahead of Daley. The duo did put on an entertaining exchange, however, with at least half of the 15 lap race. In the earlier prefinal, Daley got the better of Jeffrey from the line and never looked back, with Ming finishing ahead of Jeffrey. Daley got the retribution in the earlier qualifying session when he beat out Kristian Jeffrey by one-tenth of a second; Stefan third and Ming fourth.
his strokes and combined well with Vihari before the India vice-captain fell just before stumps, slashing a Josh Hazlewood delivery straight to point for 30. “We are excited to come back tomorrow, but there is a little bit of work to be done,” Hazlewood told reporters. “We just have to stay disciplined and patient. There is enough there in the wicket, we just need to hit the right areas.” Emotions were frayed at times on the pivotal day four with Australia captain Tim Paine and his counterpart Kohli involved in a heated exchange in the first session forcing umpire Chris Gaffaney to step in. “Without the banter on field, there is no fun in cricket,” India quick Mohammed Shami said. The bowling onslaught has Australia on the cusp of snapping a barren six-test run without a win and providing Paine with his first triumph as skipper. After a wicketless morning session, India came alive through blistering shortpitched bowling from Shami, who made the ball steeple off
the deteriorating wicket to finish with a career-best 6-56. Australia spectacularly lost four wickets for six runs starting with Paine (37) falling to a vicious short ball from Shami, which spat off the pitch hitting the glove and ballooned to slip. Shami was on a hat-trick when he had Aaron Finch caught behind down the legside in a fleeting resumption for the opener. Finch retired hurt on day three on 25 after being struck on the glove by a searing short ball from Shami but XRays cleared him of serious injury to his right index finger. Shami was denied the hat-trick but soon claimed his fifth wicket with another menacing bouncer that caught Khawaja’s glove to be caught behind for 72. Australia’s lead was 250 before Hazlewood (17 not out) and Mitchell Starc (14) added an invaluable 36 runs for the last wicket. Scores: India 283 and 5 for 112 (Vihari 24*, Pant 9*, Hazlewood 2-24, Lyon 2-30) need 175 to beat Australia 326 and 243 (Khawaja 72, Shami 6-56).
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
Hope, Cottrell career-bests flatten Tigers SYLHET, Bangladesh, CMC – Shai Hope struck the third-fastest half-century in Twenty20 Internationals to extend an extraordinary run of form, as West Indies romped to an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the opening game of the three-match series here yesterday. Chasing a meagre 130 after left-arm speedster Sheldon Cottrell’s career-best fourwicket haul had left the hosts’ innings in ruins at 129 all out off 19 overs, the Windies sped to their target in the 11th over, with the right-handed Hope top-scoring with an explosive 55 from 23 deliveries. Coming off unbeaten oneday centuries in his last two outings over the past week, Hope once again looked in fine touch, stroking three fours and half-dozen sixes in a scintillating innings. The 25-year-old required just 16 balls to reach his maiden T20 half-century. Only India’s Yuvraj Singh (12 balls) and New Zealander Colin Munro (14) have gone faster. Keemo Paul, afforded a promotion in the order, slammed an unbeaten 28 from 14 balls while left-hander Nicholas Pooran finished on 23 not out off 17 deliveries. The victory was only the Caribbean side’s second on tour, following their 2-0 whitewash in the Test series and 21 defeat in the one-day series. Bangladesh had earlier struggled after choosing to bat and only captain Shakibal-Hasan, with 61 off 43 balls, showed any enterprise. West Indies quicks utilised the short ball with telling effect, and this accounted for both openers cheaply with only 19 on the board in the third over. Tamim Iqbal top-edged a
DSSC end creditable 7th of 24... From page 33 points. Sharks Swim Club of St. Lucia ended 13th with 66 points, while University of the West Indies placed 17th with 37 points. With regards to the individual rankings in the 8 and Under Women, Dorado’s Jasmin Allen ended 4th with 25.50 points; 11-12 Men Raekwon Noel ended 3rd with 58 points; Ethan Gonsalves 7th on 32 points; Elliott Gonsalves 11th (13 points), Vladimir Woodroffe 13th (11 points). In the 13-14 Women, Donna Carter ended 11th with 20 points.
A couple of late hits from Keemo Paul and Nicholas Pooran ensured WI won the game with 55 balls to spare ©AFP pull at Man-of-the-Match Cottrell (4-28) and was taken at mid-off by captain Carlos Brathwaite for five in the second over while Liton Das fell in identical fashion to speedster Oshane Thomas for six. Soumya Sarkar holed out to deep mid-wicket off another short ball from Cottrell for five in the fourth over and when Mushfiqur Rahim (5) was brilliantly run out at the non-striker’s end by Rovman Powell’s direct hit from midwicket, Bangladesh were tottering on 48 for four in the sixth over. Shakib shepherded the innings well, a combination of straight hits and delightful off-side drives accounting for his eight fours and two sixes. He put on 25 for the fifth wicket with Mahmudullah (12) and a further 30 for the sixth wicket with Ariful Haque (17). Once Ariful picked out
Pooran at deep square off leftarm spinner Fabian Allen in the 16th over, the Bangladesh innings declined as the last five wickets fell for 26 runs off 21 deliveries. Shakib was eighth out, skying a short ball to be caught and bowled by Cottrell running around to a shortish square leg. Paul helped to engineer the late slide, finishing with two for 23 from four overs of medium pace. The result was never really in doubt once Hope and Evin Lewis (18) put on a pulsating 51 off 20 balls for the opening stand. Hope served notice of intentions from as early as the second over when he struck dangerous off-spinner Mehidy Hasan for three sixes in four balls – the first a slogsweep over mid-wicket, the second a pull over square leg and the third another pull
over the mid-wicket ropes – as the over leaked 23 runs. Hope cleared the ropes at extra cover in the next over with left-arm seamer Abu Hider and reached his maiden T20 half-century in the sixth over when he smashed Mehidy over long on for his second six of the over which cost 18 runs. Lewis had holed out in the deep in the fourth over off speedster Mohammad Saifuddin but Hope dominated a 47-run second wicket stand off 26 balls with Pooran before finally departing in the eighth over, caught on the ropes at extra cover off offspinner Mahmudullah. Hope’s demise came at no expense to the run rate as Paul lashed a four and three lovely straight sixes to see West Indies home easily. The second match is scheduled for Thursday in Dhaka.
BCB amends Rules to extend Board’s life to two years Elections for positions on the Executives of the Berbice Cricket Board would now be held every two years instead of the current one year. Board Members voted 17 to 12 to amend the Rules of the Berbice Cricket Board. President Hilbert Foster along with members of his Executives successfully piloted the Motions. The first Motion passed was for the life of the Executives to be from the 1st January to end on the 31st December the following year, while the second Motion was to allow elections to be held every two years instead of every year.
Voting in favour of the Motions were Upper Corentyne Cricket Association, Kildonan Cricket Club, Port Mourant Cricket Club, one delegate from Albion Community Centre, Rose Hall Canje Cricket Club, Mt Sinai Cricket Club, Guymine Sports Club and Mental Hospital, while the West Berbice Cricket Association, Berbice River Cricket Association, one delegate from Albion Community Centre, Blairmont Community Centre and Chesney Cricket Club went against. The Berbice Cricket Board had earlier in the month passed two other Motions to include the Rose Hall Town
Youth & Sports Club and the Young Warriors Cricket Club to its Membership by a 25 to 0 vote, while 22 to 8 votes were obtained for vacancies on the Berbice Cricket Board Executives to be filled at Special General Meetings. Five Clubs, Rose Hall Canje Cricket Club, Mental Hospital Cricket Club, Guymine Sports Club, Kildonan Cricket Club and Mt. Sinai Cricket Club had requested a Special General Meeting of the Berbice Cricket Board. The Berbice Cricket Board was mandated to hold the Special Meeting within 21 days of receiving the request. The Motions for accepting the two new
members and vacancies on the Executives were passed on the 2nd December, 2018, while the other two were deferred to another date on the request of the West Berbice Cricket Association. With elections to be held on a two years basis, the Berbice Cricket Board would now hold an Ordinary General Meeting between the election years. Berbice Cricket Board President Hilbert Foster updated the delegation on the massive development taking place in the county. The Berbice Cricket Board in 2018 hosted a record breaking thirty tournaments at the Under-13, Under-15, Under-17,
Under-19, Under-21, Female, Primary School and Secondary School, Double Wicket, Internal Zone, Second Division and First Division levels. The Foster led administration also hosted dozens of developmental programmes, while at the same time raising over $10M in cash and kind via an aggressive marketing drive. The Berbice Cricket Board President urged the delegates to cooperate with each other as the main objective is to assist youths to fulfill their dreams as the duty of a Cricket Administrator is to create pathways for the next generation of players.
Tuesday December 18, 2018
Kaieteur News
Nand Persaud Sky Plus Sprint Classic Horserace meet set for January 6th, August 12th The Nand Persaud Group of Companies through its Sky Plus Incorporated Promotion Group will kick off the 2019 horseracing season on Sunday 6th January. The company will be staging the meet at its Company’s racing entity, No36 Village, Macedonia Estate, Corentyne, Berbice. The company which boosts the complete package with racing track, promotional group, race horses, and stables will be staging another Sprint Classic meet on August 12th. The company boasts the only horseracing facility where the horses run in a straight line from start to finish. The races will be 880 and 660 yards. The seven-race card which is dubbed the “Nand Persaud Karibee Sprint Classic” has over $4M in cash, trophies and other incentives up for grabs. The feature event will be for horses classified H and lower over 880yards or 4 furlongs for a winning purse of $240,000 and trophy. There is an event for 3 year old animals for a winning take of $200,000 and trophy also over 880,000 yards. There is an event for 3 year old animals for a winning take of $200,000 and trophy also over 3 furlongs.
Coordinator Mohindra Persaud The event for animals classified J and lower is for a take home prize of $180,000 and trophy over 880,000 yards. . The K class and lower animals will be competing for a first prize of $140,000 and trophy over 660,000 yards or 3 furlongs. There are three L class races. One for male horses over 4 furlongs, while the female animals will be galloping over 3 furlongs both for a pole position taking of $100,000 and trophy. The other L class event
will see the non-earners from the other two L class races competing for a winner’s money of $100,000 and trophy over 3furlongs. Champion jockey, trainer and stable will all be rewarded with trophies and other incentives compliments of the Trophy Stall and the organisers. Interested persons can make contact with Mohini on 600-4728 or Amanda on 6185966. The Coordinator is Mohendra “Mohin” Persaud. (Samuel Whyte)
Hope leaps into ODI top 10 LONDON, CMC – Shai Hope’s back-to-back unbeaten hundreds in the recent one-day series against Bangladesh, has catapulted him into the top 10 of the ICC batting rankings. In the latest one-day rankings released on Sunday, the 25-year-old Hope jumped 17 spots and now lies at a career-best eighth place. Indian stroke-maker Virat Kohli continues in number one in an unchanged top five. Hope finished the threematch series against Bangladesh with 297 runs to be adjudged Man-ofthe-Series, even though West Indies went down 21 in the rubber. He carved out a superb unbeaten 146 in the serieslevelling four-wicket win in Dhaka before hitting 108 not out in the decisive third game which the Caribbean side lost by eight wickets in Sylhet. Hope now has four career ODI hundreds with three of them coming inside his last
West Indies batting star Shai Hope. seven innings. He averages an outstanding 47 – one of the highest in world cricket among current players. Shimron Hetmyer is the next best-ranked West Indies player at 40th. The only other bright spots for the Windies were the fast bowling pair of Oshane Thomas and Keemo Paul. While Thomas jumped
28 places to 146th in the bowling rankings, Paul moved up 53 spots to be 179th. Both ended with four wickets in the series. Off-spinner Ashley Nurse, missing the tour of Bangladesh through injury, is the highest-ranked West Indies bowler at 38th, with India fast bowling star Jasprit Bumrah top of the charts.
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Delroy Tyrrell swims PB’s at ASATT Invitational Guyanese by birth, Delroy Tyrrell continues to show commendable improvements in his fledging swimming career in his adopted homeland of Trinidad and Tobago. The young son of Guyanese Fitzroy and Jianna Tyrrell, Delroy achieved best times and continues his upward mobility in the recently concluded ASATT Invitational Swim Meet hosted by Marlins Swim Club, at the National Aquatic Centre in Couva, Trinidad. Delroy, trained by veteran coach and winner of the meet, Hazel Haynes, swam
Delroy Tyrrell continues to show commendable improvements. PBs in his favourite backstroke. Swimming in his first year 15-17 age group, Delroy
swam 29.81 in his 50m backstroke and followed this up with two silver medals in the 100M backstroke (1:03.94) and 200M (2:22.24). The Tidal Wave Aquatics swimmer will now be eyeing a place on Trinidad and Tobago Carifta swim team for the 2019 Carifta Championships which will be held in Barbados in March. The Trinity College fifth former will need to balance his CXC examinations preparations and his training schedules. Tidal Wave Aquatics won the meet.
BCB/RHTYSC Busta Champion of Champions 40-Overs Knock-out Tournament
RHT Gizmos & Gadgets, Young Warriors CC to clash in Final after exciting Semis Young Warriors Cricket Club on Saturday last continued their dream return to Berbice First Division Cricket by defeating the strong Albion Community Centre Cricket Club by one run in a heart stopping semifinals match of the Berbice Cricket Board organised RHTYSC/ Busta Champion of Champions Cricket Tournament. They would meet with archrival Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets in the Final, after the Berbice powerhouse defeated Tucber Park Cricket Club by 41 runs in the first semifinals at the Port Mourant Ground. The RHTYSC/Busta Champion of Champions Final would be played on Saturday 22nd at the Cumberland Ground in Canje. At the Port Mourant Cricket Ground, Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets skipper Shawn Pereira won the toss and elected to bat first. Openers, National Junior Cricketers Junior and Kevin Sinclair added 48 for the first wicket before Junior was caught behind off pacer J. Davis for 16 from 33 balls. Kevin Sinclair and former National Player Eon Hooper then took the score to 87 in the 18th over before Hooper was given out LBW for 12 by offspinner Kwesi Mickle for 12. Kevin was eventually caught off Mickle for a well played 51, while Vidal Crandon 55 and the highly talented Jonathan Rampersaud 21 not out batted well to take their team to 194 for 5 off their allotted 40Overs. Jason Sinclair also contributed 15 in an impres-
sive batting display despite the absence of Clinton Pestano and Kevlon Anderson. Kwesi Mickle took 2 for 41 from 8-Overs, while Shamar Joseph 2 for 42 (7Overs) also bowled well for Tucber Park. Needing to score 195 from 40-Overs, Tucber Park Cricket Club lost National Junior Player Steve Deonarine LBW to offspinner Eon Hooper for 01 with the score on eight in the second over. Solid batting from M. Mickle 26, Clifton Lindie 20 and Garfield Benjamin 24 kept Tucber Park in the game but the Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets struck to their game plan to reduce the visitors to 87 for 7 in the 23rd Over. National players Leon Swammy and Gevon Schultz 30 then added 160 crucial runs for the 8th wicket before leg spinner Shawn Pereira trapped Swammy at 147 for 8. Tucber Park were eventually bowled out for 153 in 36-Overs. Offspinner Junior Sinclair 4 for 24 and Eon Hooper 2 for 25 were the best bowlers for Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets while Pereira, Kevin Sinclair and Keith Simpson took a wicket apiece. At the Albion Ground, Young Warriors Cricket Club held their nerves to squeeze past Albion Community Centre by one run to advance to their successive First Division Final after returning to the First Division after a period of being dormant. Young Warriors amassed 219 for 7
from their allotted 40-Overs with Alex Algoo topscoring with 68 which included 7 boundaries and two huge sixes. He received support from Vishal Mohabir 23, Linden Austin 37 and Suresh Dhanai 19. Sharaz Ramcharran was the most successful bowler for Albion Community Centre with 2 for 28. Albion Community Centre in response were cruising at 159 for 2 in the 30th Over but suddenly collapsed to 166 for 5 within two overs. They fought to reach 208 for 7 at the end of the 39th Over. Needing to score two runs from the 40th Over with three wickets in hand, Albion lost Joshua Harrichand 05, Beesham Surujnarine 00 and Gourav Ramesh 00 without addition to the score thanks to the clever variation of offspinner Ishwar Singh. Sharaz Ramcharran topscored with a superb 64, which included three boundaries, while Kandasammy Surujnarine and Ramesh Kassinauth supported with 55. Isaiah Thorne was the chief destroyer for Young Warriors Cricket Club with 5 for 18. The Final between Young Warriors Cricket Club and Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets would be played on Saturday at the Cumberland Ground. The two teams had last month clashed in the Final of the Pepsi 50-Overs First Division Tournament. Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets had won that match by 202 runs at the Albion Ground.
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
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KFC Goodwill Cup Camex Restaurants on board Shiva’s boys top points standing with the GFF-Exxonmobil - Annandale and Annai International Futsal Festival after first round looking for wins tonight
Camex Restaurants Marketing Consultant Deslyn Griffith Presents Cheque to GFF President Wayne Forde as Aubrey Shanghai Major looks on.
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a m e x Restaurants, Inc., under the Church’s Chicken brand, has signaled their interest to support the GFFExxonMobil International Futsal Festival when the a g e n c y ’s M a r k e t i n g Consultant presented a sponsorship cheque to aid the festival.The presentation was made yesterday at the agency’s Church and Middle Streets outlet by Deslyn G r i f f i t h t o G F F ’s President Wayne Forde and Kashif and Shanghai representative Aubrey “Shanghai” Major respectively. Griffith expressed pleasure at her agency’s commitment to the success
of the festival while acknowledging that they have been active in the community and exploring sporting and other opportunities for growth. She noted their “brand is about sharing the good times with the communities and so it was an easy decision to partner with the organization.” In wishing the tournament well, Griffith said they are hoping the tournament will “bring more opportunities for more futsal competitions in Guyana and increase the level of awareness of the sport.” The four-day festival will kick off with six matches that will be played between the hours of 18:00hrs and 00:00hrs
with each match being played on the hour culminating with the final match at 23:00hrs. The other international teams participating in the festival include Morvant Caledonia United from Trinidad and Tobago and a São Paulo selection from Brazil. The locally participating teams are an East Coast All-Stars, Linden All-Stars, Georgetown AllStars and West Demerara All Stars. The winning team will pocket $1.2 million, while the losing finalist will receive half that amount. Third and fourth-placed finishers will pocket $300,000 and $100,000 respectively.
CWSS football team.
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ound two of the KFC Goodwill Cup which is being competed amongst four school teams, inclusive of the Guyoil/Tradewind Tankers league winners; Annandale Secondary, r u n n e r s u p , C h r i s t i a n b u rg / Wi s m a r Secondary School (CWSS) and region nine’s Annai Secondary along with Shiva’s Boys’ Hindu College of Trinidad & Tobago, continues tonight at the Ministry of Education (MoE) ground on Carifesta Avenue. This evening’s play that will hear its first whistle at 17:00hrs for the first match of a double header which will see Linden’s CWSS matching skills Annai Secondary of South Rupununi. Before points leaders Shiva’s Hindu College clash with Annandale in the feature clash at 19:00hrs. CWSS are second on the table with two points after overcoming 2-2 draw after full and extra time to eventually win via kicks from the penalty spot against Annandale. Annandale and Annai who lost to the lads
from T&T will both be looking to register a win tonight but they won’t find it easy. CWSS were unlucky to lose the School league after playing unbeaten and they have signaled intent to achieve nothing less than championship honours in this competition. The KFC goodwill tournament features the four school teams battling for the KFC Cup in a round-robin format over three days but the organisers, Petra Organisation, in a press release yesterday, noted some changes to the rules of the tournament which are as follows: 1. If at the end of regulation time the game is tied, penalty kicks will be taken immediately. Each team will be allowed five kicks and if at the end of the 5 kicks the game is still tied, sudden-death kicks will be taken. 2. Each winner at the end of regulation time will be awarded three (3) points and in cases of a win by penalty kicks the team will be awarded two (2) points. No point will be awarded for a loss.
DSSC end creditable 7th of 24 clubs at ASATT Invitational C/Ship - Raekwon Noel end as the 3rd best in the 11-12 Men Class
Dorado Speed Swim Club Members and their Coach display their silverware at the National Aquatic Centre, Balmain Couva.
Dorado Speed Swim Club (DSSC) athletes did themselves, club and country proud over the past weekend when they combined to deliver a 7th place finish among the 24clubs that participated at the Amateur Swimming Association of Trinidad and To b a g o ( A S AT T ) Invitational Swimming Championships held at the National Aquatic Centre, Balmain Couva. DSSC accumulated a total of 227.50 points at the
championship that was won by home club, Tidal Wave Aquatics which amassed 1,239 points. Second was Marlins Swim Club with 749 followed by Blue Dolphin Swim Club (580. 50), Flying Fish Swim Club (576), Atlantis Aquatics Swim Club (568), Sea Hawks S.C. (459) and Dorado Speed Swim Club of Guyana (227. 50). Dolphin Speed Swim Club also of Guyana ended 19th overall with a total of 25 (Continued on page 26)
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Tuesday December 18, 2018
Lusignan A are inaugural ECCC Banks Beer 100-ball champs
Man-of-the-match Robin Williams accepts his prize from Anil Persaud Story and photos by Zaheer Mohamed Even though it was a low scoring affair, the inaugural East Coast Cricket Committee (ECCC) Banks Beer 100-ball tournament which climaxed on Sunday last, was deemed a success by the organisers. Lusignan A were brilliant in every department as they defeated Enmore A by eight wickets in the final in front of a fairsized crowd at the Enmore Community Centre ground. Enmore A looked apart from the team that played in the preliminary round and on a slow pitch which didn’t render much assistance to the spinners, the scores were expected
The runner up Enmore A
to be fairly higher, but Lusignan A bowlers maintained a steady line to restrict the home team for 108-6 off their 100 balls after they decided to bat. Bhemraj Ramkelawan and Imran Hassan added 38 for the opening stand before Kumar Bishundial provided the visitors with the breakthrough by uprooting the stumps of Hassan for 17. Amir Khan was soon taken off Rajpaul Gopaul for 14 before Rudolph Singh (00) and Ramkelawan, who made 26 with two fours, were removed by Gopaul and Jason Heyliger respectively as Enmore A were reduced to 59-4. Vi s h w a n a u t h R a m l a k h a n propped up the total somewhat with
a top score of 27 which included two fours, while Yuvraj Dyal contributed 10 as Gopaul claimed 2-8, Bishundial 2-15 and Heyliger 2-21. Openers Robin Williams and Gavin Boodwah put Lusignan A on course with a stand of 43 with sensible batting. The right-handed Boodwah struck two fours and a six before he fell to Yuvraj Dyal for 24. Williams, who was named man-ofthe-match, timed the ball well and counted three fours and a six before he failed to keep down a cut shot off Satesh Jainarine to depart for a top score of 29. Former Guyana U19 batsman Krishna Deosarran and Vishnu Ramjeet then added an unbroken third wicket stand of 59
to guide Lusignan A to 109-2 in 14.2 overs. The left-handed Deosarran played watchfully as he hit one four and a six in scoring 22, while Ramjeet made 22. Dyal and Jainarine picked up one wicket each. Earlier, Lusignan B won the third place play off game by seven wickets against Fairfield. Batting first, Fairfield managed 116-7. Ramnarine Chatura slammed three fours and a six in scoring 38 while L. Tangoochandra made 16, Richard Chatura 15 and Wazim Mustafa 13. N. Persaud captured 313 and F. Kadir 2-26. Shazaam Ali led Lusignan B chase with a fine unbeaten 61 which contained six fours and a six
while Tameshwar Motiram made 18 and Navin Persaud 16. Ramnarine Chatura of Fairfield was the competition’s leading run scorer with 244, while Yuvraj Dyal was the tournament’s leading wicket taker with 12 scalps. Shameer Shahib of Banks DIH congratulated the finalists and lauded the ECCC for staging a successful tournament. He pledged their continued support with a bigger and better competition next year. Anil Persaud of ECCC expressed gratitude to the sponsors. He thanked the fans as well as the media for their coverage. 19 teams participated in the competition which saw three centuries and four five-wicket hauls.
KFC Mega Cup comes to successful close The KFC Mega Cup closed off on Sunday evening following an eventful karting which featured high intensity action. After two rounds of gruelling competition using the SKUSA (Super Karts USA) format, the event crowned its various champions. Jeremy Ten Pow won the 60cc Champion driver, while Mikhail Persaud won the Junior Category, Steven Nobrega took the 125cc Senior class and Zachary Persaud won the Easy cup division. On the night however, the battles were hot and steamy. Baby cup shows bright future The future of karting was on show Sunday night and it was all Nicholas Sawh who picked up the final win over Benjamin Phang and Caleb Paul. In the only event of the night to rely on lap timing, it was Sawh’s 36.8 that gave him the best time in the
qualifying over Phang and Paul but Phang responded strongly in the pre-final demoting Sawh to second and Paul third. In the final however, Sawh came out both barrels blazing, posting a 36.8 to win the trophy. Zachary Persaud shows his worth in Easy Cup Some close battles in the Easy Cup division ended with Zachary Persaud lifting the title in a class where drama was a must. Zach took pole in qualifying with a last lap effort off Brian Woolford and Naresh Alves. During the pre-final however, disaster struck and a first lap pileup saw Zach fall back to seventh, after which he battled his way back to fifth with Sachin Narine finishing first, Shahab Ghanie second and Brian Woolford third. In the final however, he worked his way back up to the top step of the podium, Woolford finishing third and Ghanie finishing second. Kids cup goes down to the wire Jeremy Ten Pow won the
overall title and the final of the night but not without Paige Mendonca who was a constant thorn in his side. Paige out-qualified both Ten Pow brothers, Justin and Jeremy in that order in the five-lap shoot-out opening session which landed her kart on pole for the 10-lap pre-final. And she put on a fantastic drive in the prefinal to hold off Jeremy up until the last corner of the last lap where he won by 1/16th of a kart length. In the final, Jeremy came under intense pressure in the opening fixture, but dealt with it well to come home ahead of Paige and Justin. Juniors was the Mikhail Persaud show The Junior class was all Mikhail Persaud. A 31.561 in qualifying nudged out Rayden Persaud for pole position with Zachary Persaud’s 31.737 good enough for third. Further back was Elan Rahaman, Jeremy Ten Pow who upped to this class for the event and
- Ten- Pow, Persauds, Nobrega are champion drivers
The respective winners pose with their accolades on Sunday night. (newsroom photo) Faraud Mohamed all separated by four-tenths of a second to the pole sitter. The pre-final was a master-class of defensive driving from Mikhail who held off a charging Rayden Persaud and Zachary Persaud with the final ending the same way. Jeffrey; Daley set seniors alight From the qualifying session for the 125cc Seniors, it was a battle
between Jamaica’s Colin Daley and Kristian Jeffrey. And with the class being the largest with 11 competitors, they had to do qualifying in two batches, Daley setting the bar high with 31.316 and Jeffrey, who came out in the second session posting a 31.312 on the first lap and then bettering that the next lap with a 31.138. In the Pre-final, Jeffrey got the jump on Daley and was absolutely blistering.
Daley had to make up ground but was no match for the Guyanese, finishing second with Steven Nobrega third. In the final, team work between Jeffrey and Nobrega helped them pull away from Daley and the duo never looked back; Daley and Nobrega swapping podium places for the final. Anticlimactic shifter end The much touted about (Continued on page 29)
Kaieteur News
Tuesday December 18, 2018
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More support for RHTYSC Cricket Teams for Christmas Programme - KSM Investments made massive contribution Sasha Arjune of Regal Stationery hands over toys and educational materials to Hilbert Foster.
RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster receives donation from representative of KSM Investment.
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undreds of children and less fortunate families in the county of Berbice would be having a brighter Christmas via the hard work of the Management and Cricketers of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS. Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation from the 20th to 24th December, 2018 would be hosting its 28th annual multimillion Christmas Charity Programme and 4th Annual Christmas Village. The Club’s ten cricket teams which consist of over two hundred members are forging ahead with plans for the two programmes under the direction of Club/Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster and his deputy Simon Naidu. As per norm with any Rose Hall Town Youth &
Sports Club, MS programme, Corporate Guyana and individuals have come on board to support the venture. The Christmas Village received financial donations on Friday last from Mr. Chintamani, Peter Lewis, KSM Investment, A.M. Khan of LBT, Farfan & Mendes, Alistair Parris of Len’s Craft, The Hardware Deopt, John Lewis of John Lewis Styles, the Gift Centre, Bissoondyal Sing of Bissan Trading and the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce. The ten cricket teams also received large donation of toys and food items from several of the RHTYSC closest corporate supporters. They include Big ‘B’ Restaurant, Bounty Farm, Fairfield Rice Mill, Bakewell, V Net Communications, H.A
A representative of V Net Communications hands over contribution of toys to Asst Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu. Snacks Co, Ltd, F & H Printery, Toucan Industries, Starr Computers, W/R Enterprise, Factory Price, Regal Enterprise, Sueria
Manufacturing, K. Sarwan, Anil Beharry, Rana Persaud, Cirkel Distributors, Ryan Tillack, Poonai Pharmacy, The Office of the First Lady,
S. Tulsi-Mahadeo and Sterling Products Ltd. Foster stated that at the completion of 2018, the ten cricket teams would have distributed over $5M worth of hampers, toys, clothing, educational materials to less fortunate children, single parent households, NGOs, Churches and the elderly. Great effort is also being placed into the Berbice Christmas Village, which over the last three years has developed a reputation of promoting the true value of the Festive Season and where children can enjoy themselves away from loud music, gambling, alcohol and vulgar language. The Club would be sharing out hundreds of food hampers, 3000 toys, hosting a Christmas Children Party, making donations to orphanages and senior
citizens home. Thousands of children would also be given the opportunity to have smiles on their faces. Under-17 Captain and National Junior Cricketer Jonathan Rampersaud, who is one of the chief organisers of the p r o g r a m m e , expressed gratitude to all of the donors. The promising and highly talented all rounder stated that the ten cricket teams are very proud of the fact that the RHTYSC is the only cricket club in the Caribbean that mandates its players to make positive differences in the lives of others. The Club in 2018 would have completed a total of 718 programmes/activities by the 31st December, 2018. Rampersaud expressed gratitude to all of the donors and reassured them that the items would be used for the intended purpose.
Latham double ton puts New Zealand in control against Sri Lanka WELLINGTON (Reuters) - Tom Latham put any questions about his future in the New Zealand cricket team to bed with a maiden double century as he effectively batted Sri Lanka out of the first test on the third day at the Basin Reserve yesterday. Latham finished 264 not out — a world’s best for an opener carrying their bat through a completed innings — as New Zealand were bowled out for 578, and holding a 296-run first innings lead, about an hour before stumps on the third
day. Tom Southee and Trent Boult then reduced the visitors to 20 for three at stumps, with Kusal Mendis, who is on five, and Angelo Mathews (two) to return today to see if they can avoid an innings loss inside four days.Despite the pace bowling fireworks towards the end of play, the third day belonged to the 26-year-old Latham.The left-hander was concentration personified as he built on the century he completed on the Sunday and brought up his double with a controlled push into
the leg side for a single. He immediately broke into a grin as he trotted through to complete the run and become the 15th New Zealand batsman to score a test double century and first since Ross Taylor scored 290 against Australia in Perth in November, 2015. His score is the sixthhighest for New Zealand, with Brendon McCullum’s 302, on the same ground against India in 2014, still the benchmark. It was a welcome return for Latham, whose place in the side while probably not
under serious threat, had begun to be questioned after a lean run of form. Since his last century of 177 against Bangladesh in early 2017 he has scored a total of 488 runs in 19 innings at an average of 27.11, almost 10 runs lower than his career average. In that period he passed 50 just four times. Latham played the anchor role to a fluent Kane Williamson on Sunday and continued to accumulate on Monday as the rest of the lineup took a more aggressive approach.Only
Tom Latham racked up his maiden Test match double century, New Zealand v Sri Lanka, 1st Test, Wellington, 3rd day, December 17, 2018 ©Getty Images BJ Watling from the top seven failed to get going on a placid pitch, with Taylor and Henry Nicholls both scoring 50, while Colin de Grandhomme hit three fours and three sixes in his 49. Jeet Raval (43) and
Williamson (91) were both dismissed on Sunday. Scores: Sri Lanka 282 and 20 for 3 (Southee 2-7) trail New Zealand 578 (Latham 264*, Williamson 91, Taylor 50, Nicholls 50, Kumara 4-127) by 276 runs.
t r o Sp
Hope, Cottrell career-bests flatten Tigers
Shai Hope struck T20I cricket’s third-fastest half-century as West Indies made 91 in the Powerplay ©AFP
Sheldon Cottrell’s career-best T20I figures rattled the hosts ©AFP
Lusignan A are inaugural ECCC Banks Beer 100-ball champs
The victorious Lusignan A and B teams with their hardware. Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.