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Kaieteur News
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
Stemming the rate of road fatalities A few suggestions are necessary to assist in stemming the rate of road fatalities, especially during periods such as the just-concluded road safety month. As mentioned before in these columns, it seems as if some road users are hell-bent on making the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department look incompetent. In all fairness and based upon the resources available for employment in road safety education and the enforcement of traffic regulations, it might be expecting too much in those areas. It is hardly surprising that matters have reached the pretty pass that they have, considering the number of outof-court settlements which are substitutes for traffic offenders facing the full brunt of the law. The issue remains as to whether the general public feels well-served by the actions of the people put there to protect and serve. Many factors are apparently overlooked when it comes to the dispensation of justice and a thorough examination of all the factors which might contribute to vehicle crashes and collisions which lead to injuries and death. The usual reasons adduced for road accidents include speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol (and probably drugs), and inattentive or distracted driving. Nowhere does the road-using public get the impression that faulty or defective vehicles may be the cause of an accident. The reason for this is that the accident investigators are not trained for that technical role and therefore, the easy way out is taken; blame anything that people can more easily relate to, through experience and repetition. The various road safety bodies should be advocating for more in-depth examinations to be conducted, including on vehicles involved in crashes. Moreover, that suggestion is not beyond reasonable expectation in light of the fact that the roads are inundated with second-hand and reconditioned vehicles of all classes. More thought should be given to the possibility that certain makes and models of vehicles may not be roadworthy and might have been recalled by the manufacturer(s) because of structural and mechanical defects. As a people we seem not to be focusing on addressing safety issues that are correctible. Another thing that possibly lends itself to crashes is the undesirable practice of importing used tyres. As mentioned in a previous column, citizens should not hold their collective breath hoping that the National Bureau of Standards will provide them with the requisite level of comfort by advising them of what to look for when purchasing tyres. The question of political support and affiliation is a major consideration and effectively prevents any negative official pronouncements on the continued importation of used tyres. On November 27, Toyota announced that it intends to recall 57,000 vehicles globally to replace potentially deadly air bags made by Takata Corporation. Among the models identified for recall are Vitz subcompacts, also called Yaris in some markets, and RAV4 crossover models made between December 2002 and March 2004. It is noted that more than 16 million vehicles have been recalled worldwide since 2008 over Takata’s air bag inflators, which can explode with too much force and spray metal fragments into the car. Honda Motors has also issued a recall on vehicles fitted with the suspect airbags. This situation begs the question “what are our regulators doing about these matters?” This question is all the more relevant since the air bag inflators are thought to become more volatile in hot areas. The accident investigator or forensic technician should be able to make expert pronouncements on the efficacy of vehicle components including, but not limited to, suspension; tyres; brakes; light bulbs; structural integrity;
Friday December 05, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
THE SINGHS’ ROBBERY SHOULD NOT BREAK A SPIRIT OF GIVING DEAR EDITOR, The carjacking and robbery of Balram and Indira Singh (news report Dec 3) is heart rending and shocking even in a country where robbery seems to be the trend as indicated in the number of people who are being routinely robbed. I was in Guyana when the robbery occurred and I was apprised of it hours later. Needless to say overseas based Guyanese are very upset with this latest robbery and it will put a damper on those who plan to travel to the homeland for the coming holiday season. The police are applauded for finding and arresting the robbers; effort must now be made to recover all the loot and to pick up everyone associated with the gang that has been regularly robbing people. The home should have been seized pending a thorough investigation for fingerprints and links to other crimes. The Singhs are very compassionate people who come from a long tradition of giving. They are very religious people and have dedicated their lives to giving. Friends told me they are among the kindest and most generous people one
can find. Like myself and a handful of others from New York, they regularly go to Guyana to engage in charitable activities (bringing lots of goodies) to uplift the lives of the poor and downtrodden. They work hard and save their money and then they use the savings to help the poor in Guyana. They visit Guyana annually to engage in charitable activities giving out money and purchasing groceries. The US$8000 they were robbed was to purchase food for several poor families for the holiday season. Most of the recipients are complete strangers as they target the needy not families and friends. So the real victims in this robbery were not the Singhs and the person whose car was stolen but those who would have received the six suitcases of toys and candies and other gifts for poor children and the elderly needy. The robbery has broken their spirit of giving and it happens during this season of joy when Guyanese are looking forward for handouts and a little ‘frek’. The Singhs have told friends they are done with Guyana; they are not coming back to their country
to help the poor. In fact, the robbery forced them to leave the country the next day costing them a lot of money to pay for travel documents and date change fees. The robbers have destroyed the altruistic spirit of a family and they must pay dearly. No one should have compassion for the criminals. The magistrate must show no mercy, no bail and the maximum penalty. The property of the robbers should be confiscated and restitution made to the victims. The home that served as the conduit for the stolen good should be confiscated and sold to make amends to the victims. What is disgusting about the entire criminal act is a home in Ruimveldt serving as the collection point for stolen loot. How could a family take possession of stolen property? Where is the decency in that family to encourage members and friends to steal? No one should protect this family. And how about the family of the (former) cop involved in the criminal act? Do they not have any shame to accept stolen loot destined for the poor? Those individuals must be
ostracized. Recipients of stolen property should be reported to the police and put away. The police need to be more vigilant especially during this holiday season when they target people to enrich themselves. The police must step up their patrols to and from the airport on lonely stretches of the road especially during the wee hours of the morning (flights that come in between midnight and 5:00 A.M). T here have been too many robberies of late and the culprits have been innovative and creative in their enterprise – some posing as cops With regards to the Singhs, people should communicate with them not to be discouraged from helping the poor. They must not allow the robbers to break their spirit of generosity. If the Singhs discontinue their altruistic activities, there will be many victims and the robbers would have won. Myself and others salute the Singhs for their kindness and bow before them to resume their tradition of giving to help uplift the lives of the poor. Vishnu Bisram
THE TRUE TEST OF CHARACTER
DEAR EDITOR, There are some people who are so blinded by prejudice that they simply cannot come to terms with the reality of a new and changing Guyana, one in which there is greater prosperity and a better quality of life. One only has to look at the large number of business places and supermarkets that are springing up all over the country to get a sense of the spending power of the Guyanese people. There can be no doubt that Guyana economy is heating up and with it the purchasing power of the
average Guyanese people. Business is booming in Guyana. The commercial sector is expanding as could be seen from the changing skyline in Sheriff Street and some parts of the city. Huge multi-storey buildings are going up, indicative of growing confidence in the economy. The same is true of the commercial banks which are opening up new branches in all parts of the country including some of the hinterland regions where none existed before. The balance sheets of the banks and commercial enterprises are showing solid
driver controls; restraint; systems; and door and seat security. The primary consideration should be the determination of the presence of other causal factors apart from, or in addition to, the ubiquitous claims of speeding. Another possible culprit in road traffic accidents and which is not given much attention is sleep deprivation (SD). The Guyanese people need to be educated to the dangers of SD and this can be a multi-sectoral undertaking involving, among others, the Home Affairs, Labour and Health ministries. Labour is mentioned because of the negative impacts of SD, including on accuracy and quality of work, and people’s ability to think. Guyanese need to demonstrate their concern for these matters as they contribute to their own road safety efforts.
growth in business and sales turnover which is indicative of a strong and robust economy. The mad rush to spend on goods and consumer items is very much in evidence at this time of the year thanks to greater disposable income for the consuming public. The wide range of consumer goods on display at stores and supermarkets is quite remarkable. This obviously put enormous pressure on consumers who sometimes have to make hard choices on how to spend their limited income. We live today in what could be described as the age of consumerism where people spend sometimes way above their means. This is facilitated to a large extent by the banking system which provides for generous overdrafts and credits. In addition to these, the big supermarkets also promote and facilitate hire purchase arrangements which means that persons can shop for expensive consumer items which has to be paid for on deferred
income. This is quite risky and there are instances when payments are in default leading to embarrassing situations and financial stress. This brings me to the core values and concepts of Christmas which essentially has to do with the birth of Jesus Christ. How the festival which was born out of humility became so ‘glamourized’ is the subject of much debate but it is widely believed that the festival has now become a booster for the capitalist system by promoting a culture of consumerism and reckless spending. It is amazing how people part with their hard-earned income just to keep up with neighbours and friends only to find that after the festivities are over they are broke to the last cent. This to my mind speaks to a degree of arrogance and irresponsibility which has nothing to do with the core values and principles of Christmas. Christmas is all about humility and reflecting on the birth of Jesus Christ (Continued on page 31)
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
Once the AG remains in office, no decent person should give the President’s statements a second thought DEAR EDITOR, It has been many weeks now since the Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr. Anil Nandlall has exposed his immoral fibre with that most undignified, degrading and vulgar collection of comments in a telephone conversation with a Journalist. To err is human and thus, no one in their right mind would have the moral high ground to attack Mr. Nandalal if he had done the decent thing of apologizing
for his disgraceful comments and profane -laced language and then demits office as an act of principle and decency in protecting the Office of the Minister of Legal Affair and most importantly the Office of the President. Mr. Nandlall claims he is from the Kshatriya caste (CHAT-TREE in Guyanese parlance) but does he really know what is the role of a Kshatriya? In the bane of the Hinduism caste system, the
role that is offered to the Kshatriya is one of protecting the people and the country, dispensing justice, being fair to the nation, protecting the social order in the State and to conduct oneself so one is not despised by one’s people. A CHAT-TREE is a decent, polite, honorable and well respected individual who is not vindictive and will conduct him/herself with decorum. So anyone who claims to be a CHATTREE but does not have any
Preliminary Inquiry and Grand Jury hearing DEAR EDITOR, While legal officers in Guyana and the Eastern Caribbean are debating whether or not it is right for magistrates to commit accused persons to trial by merely looking at statements taken by police and decisions by grand juries in the United States. Two recent decisions where the juries decided not to indict two white men in Ferguson and Staten Island sparked off demonstrations and protests in the United States stating that their decisions were biased and racially motivated. During the past ten days there have been mounting protests clamouring for a change in the legal system stating that there were different laws for whites and blacks. The protests were throughout the United States forcing President Barak Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder to make public statements; and even some Brits showed their protests in the streets of a few cities in the United Kingdom; I will try to look at the role of a magistrate in the Caribbean in dealing with a preliminary inquiry and that of a grand jury to determine whether or not an accused person should be indicted and prosecuted for the offence he was arrested. The law dealing with preliminary inquiry was amended to save judicial time - rather than a magistrate
hearing testimony from witnesses at a preliminary inquiry (PI) where accused persons or lawyers appearing for them can cross examine the witnesses, the law has been amended thatinstead of a PI, the statements taken by the police from witnesses can be filed in the court and serve on the prosecution officer/ counsel for the magistrate to make a determination whether or not to commit the accused persons to trial before a high court judge and a jury. In the British legal system even if an accused person is committed to stand trial before a judge and jury the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) can still intervene and nolle prosequi the case and free the accused, The DPP also has the power to indict an accused person even if the magistrate committed the person to stand trial. In other words the DPP has full authority to determine if an accused person can be tried by a judge and jury. In Guyana, one of its leading lawyers Murseline
Bacchus challenged the constitutionality of the law which allows committal from statements stating that his client in a rape case or is attorney had the right to cross examine the witnesses at the PI and he was denied this because he could not have done so when he was committed to stand trial merely from statements. Chief Justice Ian Chang agreed with Bacchus. Over in the United States a grand jury hearing is equivalent to a preliminiary inquiry where the jury has to decide whether or not a prima facie case has been made out against the suspect.
of the above qualities is hypocritical and deceitful and should not be trusted or be in a position of authority. Based on the tape recordings, the Attorney General (AG) was caught allegedly pimping a female reporter for his uncle, threatening violence against the Forth Estate, in this case the Publisher of Kaieteur News, Editor-in-Chief Adam Harris and their staff only because they have exposed his unrighteous and depraved behavior. It is downright wrong for the president not to demand the resignation of the AG who acknowledged that he spent millions of dollars of the taxpayers’ money on a private family issue which he was not entitled. How can the rule of law be enforced in Guyana when the principle officer of the Bar is being accused of being the chief law breaker? For Mr. Ramotar and the cabinet to wrap arms around the disgraceful AG has not set a bad example only for politicians but for the youths who would believe that they can commit a crime and not be punished. It shows that the president is not in control of the government and his cabinet is afraid to rebuke the Jagdeoites. For him to allow Mr. Nandlall to continue as the Chief Law officer shows
that he does not have the requisite skills to be president and that Guyana has descended to the pit. The administrative structure was set up to have someone appointed as the Attorney General to be the head of the Bar, but most importantly the chief legal advisor to the State of Guyana. Such a person is expected to possess various qualities with the highest morals to be a right fit for the position. An Attorney General and a Minister of any Government ought to have integrity, leadership skills, a strong ability to truly listen to the people and to communicate with their peers and the people, and but most importantly have a credible and a distinguished character not just in words but in deeds. Sadly, Mr. Nandalall lacks all of these fundamental characteristic traits of an Attorney General and should not have been offered the job in the first place since he is a very far cry from the benchmark of the great Attorney Generals of Guyana
like Fenton Ramsahoye and Keith Massiah. In simple language Mr. Nandalal is not ready yet and is the most unfit and unsuitable person for the position he holds and should do the decent thing and resign. Once Mr. Nandalal remains in office all women, all media houses and all financial rules in the State of Guyana remain under a clear and present danger. Once Mr. Nandalal remains in office, no one with any modicum of credibility should give any of his statements a second thought. Thus his latest irrational and unreasonable outburst that “the opposition has persistently rejected dialogue” should be reviled since he has no moral authority to lecture even the hard core criminals in Camp Street and Mazaruni. If one looks carefully one will struggle to see a difference in characteristic between a criminal and Mr. Nandalal. What the old people said – two sides of the same coin? Asquith Rose and Harish Singh.
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Guyanese father of two slain in Cayenne A Guyanese father of two was stabbed to death in front of his apartment building in Cayenne, French Guiana during a dispute with two of his friends on Sunday, last. The two men, also Guyanese, are said to be on the run. Dead is Dario Rose, 22, of 468 Kiskadee Drive, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, who moved to the French colony about a month ago with his two friends, Daniel Burrowes, 18, and Troy Chase, 22. When Kaieteur News visited his relatives on Wednesday they were in grief and his mother was making arrangements to go for her son’s funeral. This publication was told that Rose had misplaced US$1500 and had confronted the two men about it. This reportedly led to an argument which quickly escalated to a fight. The two reportedly dealt the 22-year-old several blows before taking turns to stab him with a knife in the street. They then fled the area, leaving the bleeding man lying on the roadway. He subsequently died. Rose’s mother, Diana Oxford, said she was at home Sunday afternoon when one of her nephews visited her around 17:00 hours, claiming that her son had been stabbed to death. The mother said she did not believe the news and told her crying nephew “Stop! It’s in God’s hands.” She told Kaieteur News that hours later she was forced to concede after she received calls from several relatives claiming her son had indeed been killed. “I just couldn’t believe it,” the 46-year-old related, “when I called, I heard that my son’s body was lying in the streets. They said that he
Dead: Dario Rose and the two boys had a confrontation and they started beating him with a gun.” The mother said she heard stories of how her son ran out of the apartment, screaming “Murder! Murder! Murder! They killing me!” Oxford stated that following her son’s cries, others in the neighbourhood ran out. Eyewitnesses reported to her “Daniel (Burrowes) had a long knife in his hands and he stabbed him in his tummy (abdomen).” She said too that afterwards the other man, Chase, took the weapon and pierced it through her son’s heart. “I have pictures with him (Rose) drenched in blood; holding his heart. My son died on the road, in the picture that’s where I saw him,” Oxford said as she added that a female eyewitness too was stabbed in her hand by one of the men. The mother of four was unable to say exactly where in that capital city her son resided, but recalled that earlier this year, he had brought three guys to live in her house. She said she had not objected because she trusted
her “kind-hearted” son’s judgment. According to Oxford, her son ventured to the small French colony together with his attackers exactly one month before he met his demise. The grieving mother admitted that she never knew that her son shared a friendship with the two until he brought them to her door earlier this year. Oxford said that Rose was working as a labourer in the interior here, but she is uncertain what occupation he had ventured into while in French Guiana. She told this newspaper “He doesn’t normally take pictures, but he sent one with him and the boys last week, saying ‘I love you.’ That’s the last time I heard from him.” “The last call I got, someone said they saw the boys in Suriname.” The woman told this publication she has since provided the picture of the boys to a Commander at Eve Leary who has promised to make a “border report.” Oxford explained that it has not been very easy learning that her son was murdered. “He was one of the most loving children anyone would want to have.” Oxford said her son has two children (aged 3 and one). “The family has not been sleeping. Even though I saw the picture I’m still hoping that he is right there; that it’s the wrong body somebody have.” She told Kaieteur News that she is currently preparing to head to Cayenne on Monday, because bringing her son’s body home will be too expensive. “I can’t afford to bring him. It’s over $3M to bring him.” She said “In my heart I’m not prepared for that, but I have to do it, because if I don’t go, they will just dispose of him. I can’t let that happen.” The body, she said, is currently at a mortuary in Cayenne and a post mortem examination was conducted on Wednesday, last. Oxford said that she does not yet know the results and is waiting on his death certificate.
Friday December 05, 2014
Vendor shot during robbery attempt A father of six is counting his lucky stars after being shot once to his left leg during a robbery attempt around 05:30 hrs yesterday in front of the Ketley Primary School in Charlestown, where he has been vending for the past 20 years. The injured man has been identified as 48-year-old Vincent Ramkissoon of 1043 Belle West Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara. According to Ramkissoon, the bullet exited just a little below his knee. He was treated at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and discharged. During a telephone interview, the vendor explained that he would usually leave his home early in the mornings and travel to the school to organize his stand just in time for when the children arrive. “While fixing my stand, I notice a guy on bicycle pass in front of me, but I didn’t pay attention, I was busy fixing up my stand,” the vendor recalled. He added that he was sweeping in front of his stand when he heard a noise behind him - this was approximately half-hour after he noticed the cyclist. “When I hear the noise I turn because I thought someone fall down. When I turn, I see this same guy walking towards me pointing a gun,” Ramkissoon said.
Injured vendor: Vincent Ramkissoon
He added that the man demanded that he empty his pockets, following which he was instructed to open his car when the alleged bandit realized that the vendor was only carrying the keys to his car on his person. “He tell me walk to the car and open it. When I reach to the car, I turn to him and I tell him I would not open the car, and he shoot me,” the vendor said. He added that his car keys fell out his hands and his attacker grabbed them and tried to open the vehicle, but he was intercepted by a nearby resident who pelted a bottle at him.
“The neighbour heard me screaming and pelted the bottle at him, and he fire a shot at the man but missed and when he realize the man was reaching for more bottles, he picked up his cycle and rode away.” The vendor was then rushed to the hospital where he was treated. Despite being attacked, Ramkissoon said that he will not stop vending in front of the school since he has been operating his business there for a number of years. He said that his attacker was wearing a brown jacket with a hood and black jeans. No one has been arrested.
Arrest warrant issued for carnal knowledge accused After being put off on two occasions because the accused hadn’t a lawyer, all was set for the commencement of the High Court trial of 54-year-old Muntaz Yassim called ‘Joe’ of New Street Cumberland, East Canje, Berbice. Yassim is charged with two counts of Carnal Knowledge. However, when the matter was called yesterday before Justice James Bovell-Drakes and a mixed jury in the Berbice High Court, the accused was absent. With both the Prosecutor, attorney at law Renita Singh and defence lawyer Perry Gossai in place, the matter was ready to commence, but
the accused was a no show. Yassim, who was a money lender, is charged with between the 1st January and 22nd December 2006, having carnal knowledge of an 11year-old girl. The man is also charged with between 22nd December 2006 and November 2007 at New Street Cumberland, in the county of Berbice, of having carnal knowledge of a 12-year-old girl. The accused was out on $100,000 bail, and had showed up in court on two occasions, but did not have a lawyer. He was given time and subsequently secured the services of attorney-at-law Gossai.
In court, Justice Bovell Drakes told the jury that there was a problem on hand since the accused was absent. In his address to the court, Gossai stated that he spoke to the accused on Tuesday when he contacted him. He was given all assurances that the man would be in court. However he could not give any reason why the man was absent. Prosecutor Singh asked the court to issue an arrest warrant for Yassim. The judge subsequently issued an arrest warrant for the accused and put the matter down until next Thursday, December 11, for continuation.
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Friday December 05, 2014
Caribbean legislators angry about US chokehold case
Eric Garner died from a heart attack while being arrested for allegedly selling illegal cigarettes in Staten Island last summer. (Credit: blackamericaweb.com) Jamaica Gleaner Caribbean American legislators are expressing outrage over a grand jury’s decision not to indict a white police officer in Staten Island in the death of a black man who died w hen the officer used a chokehold to restrain him. The grand jury’s decision Wednesday not to i n d i c t Officer Daniel Pantaleo in the killing of father of six Eric Garner, comes on the heels of a similar decision last month in Ferguson, Missouri in which a white p o l i c e o f f icer shot and killed 19-year-old Michael Brown. Caribbean American congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, who is the daughter
of Jamaican immigrants, and who represents the 9th Congressional District in Brooklyn, New York, says the latest decision defies comprehension. Clarke has asked the US Department of Justice to conduct an investigation of the killing. And she notes that the chokehold has been prohibited under New York Police Department (NYPD) regulations for more than 20 years. The New York medical examiner had ruled that Garner’s death was a homicide. Garner died from a heart attack while being arrested for allegedly selling illegal cigarettes in Staten Island last
summer. A disturbing video of Garner’s arrest went viral online, showing Pantaleo holding Garner in a chokehold prior to his death. Clarke says she will not accept the continued devaluation of the lives of men and women who are African-American. Meanwhile, Grenadian American Council Member Jumaane D. Williams, says there are no words to adequately describe how he feels, saying he was vacillating between numbness and abject anger. He says while the Staten Island prosecutor, Dan Donovan and the grand jury failed, the Mayor and Commissioner cannot fail.
CARREX to be fully operational by year end PA R A M A R I B O , Suriname — The CARICOM Rapid Alert System for Exchange of Information on Dangerous (non-food) Consumer Goods (CARREX) is expected to be completely operational at the national and regional levels by the end of 2014. Representatives from national standards bureaux in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are being trained at a regional workshop in Suriname on matters relating to the CARREX and consumer product safety. The workshop from Wednesday to today and facilitated by the
CARICOM Secretariat in collaboration with the Organisation of American States (OAS). Participants will focus on the study of risk assessment concepts and methods in order to enhance national interagency networking in creating and sharing information. There will be sessions aimed at strengthening national capacities to detect unsafe products and to take timely measures to tackle the circulation of such products. The training will enable CARICOM member states to more effectively implement the CARREX system and market
surveillance processes for non-food consumer goods. The intervention is funded with assistance under the Te n t h European Development Fund (10th EDF) CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) and Economic Integration Programme (EIP). The Community Strategic Plan 2015-2019 identifies, among other areas for priority focus , the accelerated implementation of the CSME, building competitiveness and unleashing key economic drivers to transition to growth and to generate employment and the development of human capital.
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
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GUYANA DOES NOT HAVE A CONSTITUTIONAL COURT I am not aware that Guyana has a Constitutional Court. This is news to me and news to the entire country. I must have been asleep when this Court was constituted. I am not aware that the Constitution of Guyana provides for such a Court. But I am subject to correction if someone can point out where and when Guyana established this Constitutional Court. Guyana has a Family Court and it has a Commercial Court. But do we have a Constitutional Court? Nah! If Guyana had a Constitutional Court, then the instruments establishing such a Court would never allow for a one-judge Court. So I do not know where anyone can come up with this idea that Guyana has a oneman Constitutional Court. As far as I am aware Guyana does not, has not and is never likely to have
Constitutional Court. There is simply no need for such a Court in Guyana. Very few countries in fact boast a Constitutional Court. In South Africa there is a Constitutional Court. But there were special circumstances that led to the need for this Court in South Africa. This Court was formed as a means of protecting the Constitution of South Africa, given that country’s own peculiar history and the fact that upon the birth of the new Constitution of South Africa the majority of judges were White in a country in which the majority of the population is non-White. Therefore, it was felt that a new Court more reflective of the ethnic makeup of the country should be established. So the idea was to give special protection to the country’s new Constitution. These were the special circumstances that
gave rise to the need for a Constitutional Court in South Africa. In most other countries, the High Court and the Court of Appeal hear constitutional matters. And so it is and has been in Guyana. Do we need a special Court in Guyana to protect our Constitution? Many persons in Guyana have complained that the Constitutional Reform Process which began after the 1997 elections did not go far enough. In fact, one overwhelming complaint was that the reforms did not seriously alter the fundamental tenets of Burnham’s 1980 Constitution. This is a debatable issue that should not concern us in this column. The fact is that no special circumstances have ever been advocated that would suggest the need for a Constitutional Court. Even if the argument is advanced that there is a need
to ensure that rulings on constitutional questions are considered by unbiased, impartial and independent judges, this would not in itself justify the need for a Constitutional Court in Guyana. Whatever the suspicions may be about the independence of the local judiciary, Guyana is a member of the Caribbean Court of Justice. As such, those who may have problems with the Constitutional rulings of local High Court judges always have the option of going to Guyana’s Court of Appeal where more than one judge sits. And if they are not satisfied by the ruling in the Appellate Court, they can take their case to the Caribbean Court of Justice. The fact that there are delays and backlogs in hearing matters should not act as disincentive to anyone appealing any constitutional
ruling by any judge. And certainly delays cannot and should not be used to question the quality of Guyana’s jurisprudence which has always been of an exceptional standard. Always! The problem we have in Guyana is not about any one judge undertaking all of the Constitutional cases. The Chief Justice has ruled in a number of cases where constitutional issues were raised. But so too have other judges! I recall earlier this year one female judge ruled on the case in which there was a constitutional challenge to the government’s decision not to pay the lotto funds into the Consolidated Fund. This case was not heard by the Chief Justice, but by another judge. I also recall another judge awarding an accused person a sum of money for the
breach of his Constitutional rights. When a young teenager had his private parts burnt while in police custody, his lawyers filed action seeking relief, including relief for breaches of his constitutional right in the High Court. A judge did grant significant damages, including exemplary damages in relation to the breach of the constitutional right of the young man. This judge was not the Chief Justice. So I do not think that a valid argument can be made that Guyana has one judge that handles constitutional cases. This is not so, has never been so, and will never be so.
DAMAGED E.B.D KOKER…
Flood victims reject Govt. $$$ offer, threaten protest action “More than 400 residents were affected by that flooding; we are still counting our losses. When we calculate the money the Government giving, each household will receive not more than $27,000 and we paid more than that to clean our yards, so this is unacceptable.” This was the assertion made by more than two dozen irate Peter ’s Hall and Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) residents who watched helplessly as water rushed into their homes after a koker located between the villages collapsed in October last. During a meeting with Social and Political Activist, Mark Benschop yesterday, the residents registered their frustration and disapproval over the “$11M offer” made by the government. They claimed that the government has “no feelings” for the people. “It is time they treat us with some respect. The president should put himself in our position. We worked years to buy those things. I bought a fridge from Courts and it took me four years to pay for it,” a resident, Thomas (only name given) stressed. He lamented that it was
painful for him to look at how the water destroyed his appliances and other items within seconds. “I am still hurt. Imagine, I only finish paying for my fridge three months before the flooding…the Government eye pass we. We vote and put them there and they gon give we $27,000 when I paid $240,000 alone for my fridge,” the resident exclaimed. Other residents claimed that days after the flooding, the Minister of Local Government, Norman Whittaker visited the two communities, and instead of sympathizing with them, appeared to be trying to promote his party. “We refuse to listen to him and we told him to go and tell Ramotar that we are not accepting the $11M. At the meeting, he embarrassed us, he told us that some of us don’t have electricity and we claiming for fridge and so,” Bibi Haniff recalled. According to one resident, “the man that come tell we about the $11M the government giving we, come in a $30M vehicle.” The residents claimed that the flooding is a major setback for the Christmas
holiday. “We like to dress up Christmastime, but now we gotta think about replacing what we lost in the flood.” This newspaper was informed that a meeting will be held on Sunday to discuss the way forward which, according to most of the residents, will be a protest in front of the Office of the President. “They cannot give us $27,000 and expect us to stay quiet. This is nonsense and we will speak out against this injustice. We are not accepting this money… some of us had to stay home from work for two weeks just to clean,” Haniff explained. Benschop said that although he was not affected by the flooding, he will support the affected residents in whatever decision they make. “The Government cannot give these people $11M and expect them to stay quiet… that is total eye pass and I will support them in whatever decision they make to go forward,” the Social and Political Activist emphasized. Meanwhile, calls to Minister Whittaker in relation to the latest development went unanswered.
Mark Benschop with some of the affected residents yesterday
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 05, 2014
== THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN ==
Rohee, Benn, Ramotar: The PPP Jagan left behind Early in my academic career, I argued that my generation and subsequent ones never saw Cheddi Jagan as a policy-maker in action and once Jagan remained as President, we would see what he was made of. I long suspected that in power Dr. Jagan would not be a hero, because he was made a hero for opposing the stupid, unnecessary, dictatorial things Forbes Burnham did. If Burnham had been a democrat, Jagan would have become a forgotten footnote. Once in power, Jagan showed he was far from heroic or honest or multiracial. African civil servants were dismissed because they were either African or PNC supporters. A majority of them were not paid their legal entitlements, including the editor of this newspaper, Adam Harris. Others took Jagan to court and won, like Keith Austin and the late Cedric Grant. Cheddi Jagan in power after 1992 virtually devastated the physiology of the State. Even Jagan’s baby, the University of Guyana, wasn’t spared; he removed duty-free
concession for lecturers. Jagan died in 1997 and left his party in office and all in its leadership including, Ralph Ramkarran, but with the exception of Moses Nagamootoo and Khemraj Ramjattan, became worse than any type of politician the PNC or any party in the CARICOM region produced. They say ‘never say never’, but the CARICOM region will never see, after the PPP goes, the following five PPP personnel in another CARICOM party – Charles Ramson, Bharrat Jagdeo, Clement Rohee, Gail Teixeira and Neil Kumar. I will stay clear of elaboration and I am fully aware that I did not include Anil Nandlall. If I could have elongated on my choices, I could have stated why Nandlall does belong in that category. These are the products of Cheddi Jagan. Only the PPP could have produced these five personalities. After twenty-two years in power, we have come to see what Cheddi Jagan created. I drive past the tomb of Forbes Burnham every day and on each occasion, he would rise up, smile, call me Freddie, and intone, “Freddie, look who
ya’ll throw me out for.” I would take the liberty of calling him Forbes and I would reply; “Forbes, my conscience is clear; I have fought them, I am fighting them, and I will not stop until we throw them out.” I pass North Road almost daily, and as I reach the home of President Desmond Hoyte, he would push his visage out the window, take the liberty of calling me Freddie, and would say with a ponderously serious face; “Freddie, how do you feel now, after what all of you did to get me out of power?” I cannot bring myself to call him Desmond because his entire personality is so serious, I would reply; “Mr. Hoyte, people try to make up for their mistakes, I am doing just that.” The moment, the first instance I heard about an official inquiry into Walter Rodney’s death, I knew what was coming. After 21 years the PPP leadership decided to have a judicial inquiry. Only a fool could have been so mentally idiotic not to see what was coming. I feel for Mrs. Patricia Rodney. She lost her husband. Three children lost their
father, but Mrs. Rodney cannot be so naïve to believe the PPP is interested in the answers to who murdered Walter Rodney. I apologize if she feels hurt when I say that she has been used. I will never hurt her feelings, but I write this as someone who believes in that statement in a deeply honest way. Look at Cheddi Jagan’s “children” today. I glanced at the television news and saw Clement Rohee threatening push-cart CD sellers. These poor people are his object of attention while Georgetown is swimming in a sea of garbage, miasma and sewerage. Does Mr. Rohee
have a heart and a conscience? Mr. Robeson Benn sends his crew to arrest little girls selling bottled water at the Vlissengen Road/Irving Street/Lamaha Street junction. He said they block traffic. That is untrue. Drive one minute from that junction and a massive construction at the junction of Sandy Babb Street and Vlissengen Road has devastated the flow of traffic for the past three years now. Go to Middleton Street and a private school has taken up the pavement creating a traffic nightmare. But Benn picks on little girls who belong to single parents
Frederick Kissoon Then there is the “big” man himself. He is the head man of his party and government, yet two young female parliamentarians of his party have denounced Anil Nandlall’s sordid comments on women. The “big” man refuses to do so.
Dem boys seh...
Piwari does mek people talk de truth Old people seh when mouth open, story does jump out. Nuff mouth been opening in the last few months and de dutty story about a lot of dem corrupt top officials been tumbling out. Imagine dem got a couple of boys who go in de bush and drink piwari wid some reportah boy from a place faraway name Sweden. Dem boys know when de liquor sink in, word does come easy. Is de same cheap liquor mek a certain Chat-3 open he mouth and spill all he plans that he had fuh de waterfalls boss man and he staff Is de same ting mek Keith de Borrower and Neil, de man from Down Under, get in trouble. Dem drink some of de cheap stuff and de reportah ask dem about how gold doing in Guyana. Right away Keith de Borrower and Neil start fuh talk. Dem call for another round and de reportah from Sweden start writing. He mek sure he keep the rum flowing so that dem could keep talking. Whilst dem talking , the reportah quietly writing. He write how dem seh how Guyana sell out its independence and how plenty Brazilians tek over de bush. De reportah even write how de people does get rash when dem bathe in de dutty rivers in the bush and how de man who look like De Devil and he puppets sell out
everything because dem kno dem aint gon get re-elected. Well, Rob de Earth wake up early yesterday and do wha all de Bees does do fuss ting in de morning. Dem run fuh de Waterfalls paper fuh see what new dat dey do in the dark dat skin up. Rob de Earth see de story wha de Swedish reportah write and he call he Pee-Ess. He order de man fuh fire Keith de Borrower and fuh write de Neil de man from Down Under. Then he remember he na name Donald or De Man who resemble de Devil. De Pee-Ess even call some lady from de bush who own a restaurant. Rob de Earth tell dem that dem gat to do a Shaggy and sing “It Wasn’t Me”. Whole day yesterday, dem neighbour hear Keith de Borrower singing something de Shaggy song loudly pon top he voice.When he reach de high note, dem hear he choke. Whole day dem send out press release. Dem seh de reportah drink too much piwari and write wrang tings. Keith de Borrower even blame de Apposition fuh wha de reportah seh. He seh he love de PPP bad and he gun never left dem. Dem boys know dat everybody frighten now. Dem gat to watch how dem walk and dem even watching dem shadow. Even de Fat Crook who shadow does cover everybody confuse. He na talk to no reportah on de Marriott. Talk half and watch who drinking more piwari and den gon wrang talk
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Stop attacking citizens Membership decline denting trade union effectiveness who identify corruption By Kiana Wilburg While Guyana showed marginal improvement in its corruption perception score in an international report, Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Ramesh Persaud says that he is concerned that the perceived level of corruption is too high. On this premise, he called on the government to “stop the attacks, character assassination and vilification of citizens who have identified corruption as a serious problem that needs urgent and radical state intervention to stem its disastrous consequences for economic development”. The 2014 Annual Corruption Perception Index (CPI) was released on Wednesday and out of the 175 countries surveyed by the body, Guyana ranked 124th, with a score of 30 (0 being highly corrupt;100 being very clean.) Guyana improved by three points over its 2013 rating on the Global Corruption Perception Index, but the country remains at the bottom of the list of English-Speaking Caribbean countries. The only other countries in the region that ranked below Guyana were Haiti and Venezuela. Guyana’s rating places it among countries such as Vietnam, Tanzania, Sierra Leone and Mauritania. Persaud opined that the index is not a perfect measure of the actual level of corruption, but it is a meaningful indicator that should not be ignored. The PSC Chairman said that it is known that corruption is present in all societies, but some take more action than others by putting in place the necessary laws and institutional framework to minimize and eliminate the scourge. He noted too that corruption in the public sector cannot exist without the support of some members in the business community or the general public, thus he called on private companies that engage in these immoral practices to hold themselves to a higher standard and “desist from spreading this cancer on the Guyanese society”. Persaud said that the absence of effective governance mechanisms to adequately fight corruption in Guyana contributes to the public opinion being more towards the negative end. Since the release of the report, Transparency Institute of Guyana Inc. (TIGI), reiterated its earlier calls for civil society members and groups such as the
- Business chief tells Govt.
PSC Chairman, Ramesh Persaud Guyana Bar Association, Guyana Association of Women Lawyers, Private Sector Commission, Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the trade unions, among others, to get involved in combating corruption. It called on the civil society bodies to speak out against corruption and be proactive within its own membership on tackling the scourge. TIGI also called on the civil society bodies to partner with it in order to embrace more collective efforts. It then
renewed its previous calls to government for measures such as the urgent appointment of members of the Integrity Commission; the urgent appointment of members of the Public Procurement Commission; Implementation of laws to regulate election campaign financing; Implementation of modern anti-corruption legislation; Implementation of whistle-blowing legislation and the enforcement of existing anti-corruption laws by investigating and prosecuting the corrupt, among others, to be put in place. In this regard, Persaud emphasized that he strongly supports TIGI in its call for the government to take action. The PSC Chairman, in addition to what TIGI called for, asked for the enforcement of the existing anti-corruption laws by investigating and prosecuting the corrupt; strengthening existing anticorruption institutions such as the Guyana Police Force, for example, which is weak and unable to counter serious white collar crime and corrupt activities; and to ensure that all public moneys are placed to the credit of the (Continued on page 12)
By Zena Henry With a public workforce of approximately 250,000 staffers and only 50,000 being unionized, the country’s trade union bodies seem to be fighting an uphill battle on a gravel laden mountain when it comes to fighting for what they believe are meaningful wage/salary increases for public servants. That is one of the major hindrances to effectively representing public servants, Kenneth Joseph, General Secretary National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) opined. He explained to Kaieteur News yesterday that this phenomenon, which has resulted from past union actions, is taking a major toll on the representing bodies, especially when they do not have the financial capacity to support any actions of resistance. He said that “the numbers (members) must then count for something.” Joseph highlighted that Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has four unions which have approximately
Patrick Yarde
Kenneth Joseph
35,000 members. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has about 14 unions, he continued, but they have about 15,000 members. “This accounts for about 50,000 workers out of a workforce of approximately 250,000.” This, Joseph said, is something the government understands, and he opined that it is not intimidated by any action that the unions might take, given the dynamic of the situation. The trade unionist said further that many workers are now employed on a contract basis which means that many
of them do not have the security of the unions. In the public sector, he pointed out, there are many contract workers employed in sectors controlled by the government, “like GPL (Guyana Power and Light),” Joseph suggested. According to him, what GPL has done is to get rid of the unionized workers and later rehired them on a contractual basis. Joseph said that the union advised the members not to collect any money being offered by the company, but they accepted the sums paid and opted to (Continued on page 12
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 05, 2014
Private Sector offers resolution to Membership decline... Parliamentary standoff One of the country’s main business advocacy bodies, the Private Sector Commission (PSC), has unveiled a number of recommendations to end the current Parliamentary impasse and has called for the work of the National Assembly to resume by or before year end. Guyana’s Parliament was suspended by President Donald Ramotar on November 10, as he sought to avoid the passing of a No Confidence Motion brought against his government. After the unprecedented move, Ramotar told the nation that he prorogued the House of the people to facilitate talks with the opposition. But the opposition entities, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), have refused to talk to the government during the period of prorogation, and so everything remains at a standstill. But the PSC, headed by Ramesh Persaud, has formulated a recommended game plan to direct the way forward. This has been sent to President Ramotar, APNU leader, David Granger, and AFC leader, Khemraj Ramjattan. The Commission, in a statement to the press, said that it prepared the proposed solution after consulting with various Civil Society organizations such as representatives of Labour and Religion, but did not specify any of the organizations. PSC said the politicians can make the first step towards solving the problem by the signing of an agreement. That agreement is
one that outlines that the prorogation of Parliament will be ended and the work of the National Assembly will be reconvened no later than December 31. It also stipulates that a moratorium of one month, commencing at the beginning of the New Year, will be facilitated to give room for dialogue to be attempted, before consideration is given to the dissolution of Parliament or the motion on confidence. Also, the signing of that agreement will mean that representatives of Civil Society will be allowed to observe the dialogue process in full, once commenced during this period. The statement sent out by the PSC indicated many of the factors taken into consideration before arriving at the proposed way forward. One factor that was considered is the fact that the Constitution provides for inclusionary democracy. Article 13 of the Constitution of Guyana states that: “The principal objective of the political system of the state is to establish an inclusionary democracy by providing increasing opportunities for the participation of citizens, and their organizations in the management and decision making processes of the State, with particular emphasis on those areas of decision making that directly affect their wellbeing.” The PSC noted that the 10th Parliament is the first to be constituted as one where the opposition parties occupy the majority and the
President Donald Ramotar Opposition Leader, David Granger Government sits in minority, and pronounced that it must be accepted by all that this is the mandate given by the electorate. The statement noted, “We share the view that there is still room for the life of the 10th Parliament to be preserved once the prorogation comes to an end and the no confidence motion is stayed to make room for a meaningful attempt to dialogue on the important issues that will persist even after elections are held.” The PSC also indicated that consultations with political parties have revealed a willingness to engage in dialogue, but the body noted that the Opposition parties will only agree to participate in dialogue if Parliament is reconvened. PSC said that it is imperative for Civil Society to be included as observers to any dialogue process agreed upon, so as to be kept meaningfully informed about the agreements and commitments by all parties in pursuing the interests of
those they represent, and hold each accountable for the delivery of results. The Commission also recommended a few issues to be dealt with during the period of the moratorium. Those include the composition and implementation of all outstanding commissions required by the Constitution and an agreement on a date for Local Government Elections some time before the life of the 10th Parliament comes to an end. Also, the PSC asked that the mechanism by which the Bills not receiving assent can be resolved, as well as a mechanism for approval of the 2014 supplementary financial papers and statements of excess. Further, the Commission recommended that an inclusionary mechanism for budget talks of 2015 and 2016 be discussed as well. The Commission made known its opinion that the measures mentioned may be sufficient to salvage the life of the 10th Parliament where previous items on the Parliamentary agenda can be resuscitated including the Anti-Money Laundering Bill and the Telecommunications Bill.
From page 11 try their luck as contract workers with the power company or in other areas. The mobilization of union members is also a challenge for bodies, Joseph claimed. He said also that apart from mobilization, the contributions by members seem not to be adequate, given their numbers. This means too, that unions are not exactly equipped to finance certain actions because of low strength in that area. Joseph opined therefore that for the interest of the members, the unions need to come together and show their strength in numbers, given its financial insufficiency. It has been opined by several trade unionists, including the Guyana Public Service Union head Patrick Yarde, and TUC’s Lincoln Lewis, among others, that trade unionism is becoming a victim of political tactics. Kaieteur News was told that current issues facing trade unions can be traced back to battles fought in gaining benefits for members, some of which caused major dents in the unions finances, and to date, the agencies are unable to recover from. Some of these past activities primarily include the strike against the effects of the Economic Recovery Programme (ERP) and the GPSU’s 57-day strike. Joseph said, however,
that a vast number of workers in the public service now prefer the contractual arrangements, and now these workers far outnumber the traditional public workers. According to the GPSU, for 13 years the government has been imposing a minor 5 percent increase on public servants. The union says that cannot work, since the increase does not cope with the cost of living. The government on the other hand, is saying it cannot afford to pay more. GPSU says that it is not willing to take it lying down this year, since the body was depending on President Donald Ramotar, who had assured that there would be no impositions this year. However, Yarde said there have been no discussions with the government, despite sending correspondence for the commencement of talks. Instead, he claimed, the government has imposed five and eight percent increases. Yarde said that public servants will accept an eight percent increase across the board as an interim payment. The union on Tuesday gave government 48 hours to commence bargaining talks and said that it would pronounce on the matter in one week. Yarde said he is ready to lead his members beyond the 57-day strike which the union called in 1997.
Stop attacking citizens... From page 11 Consolidated Fund. He called as well for no public expenditure to be incurred without Parliamentary approval; for government to ensure that all public officials in positions of trust are held accountable and also for it to ensure integrity in public life Countries in the region that outperformed Guyana include Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago which scored 38 points, Dominica with 58
points, St Vincent and the Grenadines which racked up 67 points and Barbados which scored 74 points. The Bahamas was awarded 71 points. The findings on Guyana by the international anticorruption body are based primarily on surveys carried out by four reputable international institutions – the International Country Guide, World Bank, World Economic Forum and Global Insight Country.
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Guyana is experiencing unprecedented abuse of Executive power – AFC Several opposition members are of the opinion that Guyana is experiencing unprecedented abuse of Executive power, and that there is critical need to alter the boundless authority afforded the Head of State. On a recently televised Alliance For Change (AFC) Programme, featuring Leader of the party, Khemraj Ramjattan, Chairman Nigel Hughes and House Speaker Raphael Trotman, sought to share this perspective. Hughes outlined that one of the important things the Constitution speaks to is the distribution of power and how it should be exercised. Referring to Article 51, the attorney-at-law said that supreme democratic power should be vested in three organs; the Presidency, Parliament and Cabinet. He emphasised that a worrying problem exists in that equation. “What you have is the President being a part of the parliament and then when you go to Cabinet, you have him there, where he has supreme executive power. So in effect, he has power of all three organs of the state. “He dominates them, and this is long before we come to discuss his immunities from suit, which means that in the exercise of his executive power, he is not answerable to the court or anyone and can only be removed by grave misconduct, ill-health or loss of confidence in him by the House.” Hughes, a practicing Attorney, said that the current structure of the Constitution gives the President absolute power to govern, and that the AFC has advocated for this to be addressed with urgency, for power, he opined, must be distributed evenly. The other difficulty with the Constitution and the powers vested in the President Hughes said, is how one becomes president due to the party list system. “Let’s say you have three political parties in a race. One gets 33 percent of the votes, the other 32 and the last 31 for argument sake. The party with the 33 percent gets to be President with full executive power. In essence you are giving this person or party, which doesn’t represent a plurality, the presidency, and it puts the nation particularly at a disadvantage, because you have people from different cultural backgrounds not being represented when the 32 and 31 percentages are combined. “If you continue this, then you perpetuate a system
House Speaker, Raphael Trotman
Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine
AFC Chairman, Nigel Hughes
Carl Greenidge
where others are excluded and they will have no representation in the executive and the executive is where the decisions are really made, that is where policies are made and carried out.” House Speaker Raphael Trotman reflected that from 1999 to 2001, the nation went through a period of constitutional reform. “We failed to really grapple it and deal with the issue of power distribution. Most right-thinking Guyanese believe that the Constitution should be scrapped completely and have a new document, because it needs serious overhauling. Instead, we tinkered mostly with it and we are reaping some of the burdens of failing to really face what the problems really were.” Trotman said that from his understanding, some experts and even ordinary citizens believe that the nation might be better off with the pre1966-69 Constitution, where Parliamentarians were elected by constituents rather than the party list system, which he abhors. He said that in those days when there was a GovernorGeneral, that person was seen as the “father of the nation” and not a politician. The House Speaker said that such a person “did not get involved in cussing down at Babu John or Cuffy Square, but rather, (he would be) the person who would intervene and ensure that the forces were not used as a tool of oppression”. Trotman said that ultimately there is need for politicians to hear from the people and that the electorate should vote in a referendum. He believes that the citizens need a chance in this process to express their views and decide what’s in their best interest. Asked to share his views on the points expressed by the two AFC politicians, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s Shadow Minister of
Finance, Carl Greenidge said that while he agreed with Hughes’ point, he did not perceive it to be lethal. Greenidge emphasised that if there are appropriate checks and balances, the legislature could provide safeguards against a minority Government implementing controversial, discriminatory
or self-serving policies. The former finance minister believes that the bigger problem has to do with the safeguards being undermined by the Presidency. He said that the supremacy of the President on the Executive front is not unusual, although elsewhere,
the acceptability of that supremacy rests on due process in the appointment of heads of Executive agencies and the use and independence of Constitutional Bodies such as the Judicial Appellate Tribunal and the Public Service Commission. Greenidge said that in
Guyana, the independence of these bodies has been destroyed with the appointment of relatives of Ministers and of financially dependent persons who represent state-dependent agencies. The result, he said, is a President who can initiate legislation in his Cabinet, and then pass it through the Legislature via his party’s Members of Parliament and then have it assented to or not by himself. The APNU politician said that this is tantamount to the undermining of democracy and the separation of powers. Greenidge said that the current system leaves the nation with a President who carries out the functions formerly performed by the Governor-General and the non-Executive President, which includes arbitration between Parties in situations (Continued on page 14)
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 05, 2014
Guyana could be first to eliminate AG’s crude comments about female KN reporter… mother-to-child transmission of HIV Women and Gender Equality Increased access to AIDS epidemic by 2030 is antiretroviral medicines during pregnancy has allowed for Guyana to be named among 13 Caribbean territories that are on track to be certified as having eliminated HIV transmission from mothers to children. This is according to UNAIDS (Caribbean), which has underscored that there are currently three other territories that are close to reaching this goal. According to UNAIDS too, over the last decade, countries have successfully increased access to antiretroviral medicines during pregnancy, which has served to empower women to make informed decisions about their health and that of their children. It was pointed out that national validation processes are underway throughout the region to co n f i r m reported rates, making it likely that by 2015, a Caribbean country will be the first in the world to announce that it has ended HIV transmission to babies. “This region was the first to eliminate polio and measles,” UNAIDS Caribbean Regional Support Team Director, Dr. Ernest Massiah said. “These successes would not have been possible without political commitment. We need the same will to end mother-to-child HIV transmission. The question is which country will be first.” Before treatment was available, at least one in four babies born to HIV-positive women in many Caribbean countries was infected with HIV. Today Anguilla, Barbados, Cuba, Guyana, Montserrat and St Kitts and Nevis, have all shown that they have reached the elimination target of below two percent transmission.
UNAIDS’ Dr. Ernest Massiah Guyana’s transmission rate currently stands at 1.6 per cent. Bonaire, the Cayman Islands, Curacao, Dominica, Saba, St Eustatius, St Kitts and Nevis and St Maarten have not had an HIV-positive baby on record in the last four to 10 years, but must finalise their documentation, according to UNAIDS. The Bahamas, Jamaica and Suriname currently have transmission rates between two and five percent while Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Haiti and Trinidad and Tobago lag behind with more than five percent of children born to mothers living with HIV becoming infected. The Dominican Republic, Grenada and St Lucia have insufficient information. “No child living in the Caribbean should be born with HIV,” Massiah said. “We must look carefully at how we can protect and empower women so that they go to clinic early, get tested, get treated, and follow-up with their babies.” Currently there is global consensus that there should be increased focus on young women, and men who have sex with men, to close the gap and end the AIDS epidemic by 2030. Moreover, ending the
possible, but only by closing the gap between people who have access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support services and those who are being left behind, according to UNAIDS. In the Caribbean, also, those already living with HIV must be able to access the services they need. New data from UNAIDS point to public support for giving young people ageappropriate sex and sexuality education in schools, as well as access to condoms and contraceptives. Public opinion polls commissioned by UNAIDS in Belize, Grenada, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago, show that the majority are in favour. Nine in 10 respondents think that child abuse and domestic violence are problems throughout in their countries. Addressing the lack of knowledge, it has been deduced that making sexual and reproductive health services and social protection available to young women can help reduce their vulnerability to HIV. CARIMIS, an online study of men who have sex with men in the Caribbean, found that while respondents who were “out” tended to exhibit better health-seeking behaviour, those who were not, were less vulnerable to homophobic abuse. Within the past month of responding to the survey, one in three had been stared at or intimidated, and one in four experienced verbal insults or name-calling. One in 10 reported being physically assaulted in the past five years. The polls found that the majority of people disagree with treating others differently because of their sexual orientation and recognise violence against homosexuals as a form of discrimination. Public engagement on equality and non-violence is central to no t j u s t t h e security and well-being of men who have sex with men, but also the Caribbean’s ability to end the AIDS epidemic.
Commission “still to take a position”
Chairman of the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Indra Chandarpal, recently disclosed that the body is still to take a position on matters coming out of the recorded conversation between Attorney General Anil Nandlall and a senior Kaieteur News reporter. Chandarpal was asked specifically to comment on remarks Nandlall made about a female reporter from this newspaper, as her (Chandarpal’s) organization is one mandated to uplift women as well as maintain a moral society. But well over a month after the derogatory statements were made, the body is still to examine the matter. On October 27, Kaieteur News made public the aforementioned recording, during which Nandlall was heard referring to the female Kaieteur News reporter as a “li’l thing” and advocating for a relative of his to have an opportunity to “f*** de girl.” Two of his female colleagues in government and the National Assembly have since condemned his actions. Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, and Member of Parliament Dr. Vindhya Persaud were the only two female People’s Progressive Party (PPP) officials to have pronounced on this issue. Manickchand, who received an honorary
Attorney General Anil Nandlall
Indra Chandarpal
doctorate for her work in gender-based equality, was the first Government official to comment on the immorality of the utterances made by Nandlall in the recorded conversation. She said, “What Nandlall said was crude and disrespectful and flies in the face of the environment that we (the government) are trying to establish and foster in Guyana.” Manickchand noted that the environment is one in which women should be treated as equals and celebrated for their worth in the development of Guyana and “not seen as chattel for men to use.” Dr. Persaud, who always has a voice on moral issues told Kaieteur News that she found Nandlall’s remarks to be extremely uncouth. “We as women have been fighting for some time to
ensure that we are not seen as objects and I think that his (Nandlall’s) comments in that regard were just absolutely obnoxious.” Persaud said too, that she would let him know that she found his remarks to be very offensive to women. Meanwhile, Chandarpal, after indicating that the Women and Gender Equality Commission is still to consider the issue and take a position, emphasised that she “does not want to be drawn into any controversy at this point and time”. There has also been silence from the likes of Minister of Human Services, Jennifer Webster; Public Service Minister, Jennifer Westford; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carolyn Rodrigues; Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, and Parliamentarian, Gail Teixeira.
Guyana is experiencing... (From page 13) of deadlock in the Assembly, for example. In this case, however, he said that the President as arbitrator is part of the deadlock or problem. “He therefore cannot be an honest broker for he (Ramotar) is facing a conflict of interest. The system permits this without any formal constraints against abuse, as has currently occurred in the case of prorogation,” the Public Accounts Committee Chairman added. APNU’s Shadow Minister
of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, who is also a member of the Constitutional Reform Committee, in an earlier interview with this publication said that in light of the prorogation of the Parliament, it is extremely critical for the Constitution to be amended. He too admitted that the Committee never finished the work it was supposed to get done and because of that, the nation is operating with an incomplete reform of the electoral system. “The electoral aspect of the system is very underdeveloped and very crude,” Dr. Roopnaraine added. He said that there is serious need for a new round of intense constitutional reform and for emphasis to be placed on the relationship between the President and how his powers can affect the Parliament. Greenidge, in adding to Roopnaraine’s statements, remarked that the Constitutional reform process
was, it seems, hijacked by the admirers of the late former PPP President Dr. Cheddi Jagan. The politician expressed that Constitution should not be written to facilitate the assumption that future Presidents would be angels. “People, unlike angels, are flawed and a Constitution should be crafted largely to permit them to help to govern without giving them much room to overindulge. We are experiencing that phenomenon of abuse of Presidential powers in Guyana today, not for the first time, but now, worse than ever,” he added. He suggested that Guyana considers having a second Chamber (non-elected) as found elsewhere in the region, in which one could repose powers of technical and constitutional review or vetting of specific actions by the elected House. He posited that some of the eroded safeguards could be protected by such an Assembly along with a Constitutional President.
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 15
Detained ‘money jet’…
Thousands of US$$ paid for President’s trips By Zena Henry Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Roger Luncheon, disclosed on Wednesday that trips taken by Head of State, President Donald Ramotar, on board the ‘money jet’ detained in Puerto Rico would have cost taxpayers ‘hundreds of thousands of US dollars”. The media was promised last week, that the figures would have been made public for the cost of the President and his delegation’s trips on the jet, but that was not forthcoming. Luncheon told the media however, that the government did not hire the jet for anyone apart from the President. When asked about the hiring, Luncheon said, “not to my knowledge, we (government) have only used that service as it says executive service; so at all times that we hired it, it was essentially the President and his delegation.” Luncheon also explained that the government had paid for three trips and he is unaware as to whether any waivers; reductions, discounts or other, was offered to the Administration. “I don’t know who negotiated, but whatever came for Cabinet’s decision, saying this is the cost of the charter, this is what we paid.” Luncheon then opined that the figures could have been “tens of thousands of US dollars.” When news of the jet’s co-pilot and owner Khamraj Lall’s detention surfaced, many questions were being asked, since it was disclosed that President Ramotar had been a passenger on board the carrier on more than one occasion. It was learnt further, that Lall had a private hangar
- Dr. Luncheon
The incomplete Exec Jet Club facility at CJIA at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) from where he was conducting executive and medical charter services. Members of the aviation authorities on Tuesday sought to clarify what they said was misinformation in the public domain. They disclosed that Lall had been given clearance to construct the hangar in Guyana by Cabinet since 2012. However, one week earlier the Cabinet Secretary was unaware of any of the information, and had directed all questions to the relevant heads of the aviation agencies. Minister of Transport Robeson Benn had told reporters that Exec Jet Club had performed all of its local
transactions above board and the company had adhered to all local regulations and had all its international documentation and requirements in order. It was explained further that the aviation authorities were not exactly concerned about the accusations against Lall, since locally he committed no action to warrant that. Benn said Lall’s business is currently not in operation and no decision had been taken on how to handle the current situation on the local front. Minister Benn stated however, that the country was in fact losing a vital service, since Lall was the first individual to provide this type of high-end service. Benn disclosed that the
Office of the President would have used the jet service to take President Ramotar to Antigua, St. Vincent and Brazil, and it was a cheaper service. “In all of those cases - and I want to repeat - in all of those cases, it was much more economical, on time, in terms of connection to those places, and on money, if you compare the use of Executive Jet Club LLC’s service to the normal operators.”
When asked, Benn said however that his Ministry would not be privy to “money facts” information pertaining to the cost of the private charter, but he opined that using the private jet would have been easier on time and the pocket. “I remember some discussion in the use of the Exec Jet Club LLC - going I think to Antigua or St. Vincent by the President and checks were being made
around as to the time, the limited time they had available to be there, the amount of time it would take to get there and the prices... and I clearly remember, just off the top, perhaps, that it was more economical in time and money to use it (jet service).” Benn said he could be wrong but that is what he “clearly remembered” since he was involved in discussions. The rationale behind his calculations, he said, relates to satisfactory pricing, and not only time consumption. The Exec Jet Club owner was detained less than two weeks ago after he was found with US$620,000 on board his private jet which offers commercial services. The plane was re-fueling in the unincorporated US territory of Puerto Rico, when checks were being made by authorities. The money was stashed in various parts of the plane which was destined for Guyana. Lall attended court in that country last Monday and was granted US$100,000 bail. He asked that information pertaining to his bail remain confidential.
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 05, 2014
Growing rift between miners, Govt. over remedial measures GOLD FALLOUT...
Miners are calling for urgent action that will address fallout from the world market drop in prices. The call comes amidst what appears to be a growing rift between the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and Government over what the former says are delays in much-needed interventions. “Mining has been the major economic earner for the country over the past few years, but this year it is certain that the industry will miss the production target, as a consequence, monies earned by Government would be less than that of the past year and the development of the industry can be brought to a standstill without Government’s intervention,” the association said in a statement yesterday. According to the miners’ body it has taken note of the recent response by the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE) over its public appeal for assistance. “While the GGDMA does not wish to negotiate in the press, the association would like to state several facts for clarity, since in the Association’s opinion the Honourable Minister, NRE, has been misinformed by his officers. “ GGDMA said that to ensure the industry, which has seen a significant number of operations closed this year, remains alive, it had asked for a number of actions to be taken by the Government. These include a reduction of rental payments by 2 percent for small and medium scale miners once the price for gold is less than US$1,400 per ounce; duty free allowance for spare parts on equipment
which already enjoy duty free tariff status, including excavators; reduction of the tax on the price of fuel and reconvening of the interministerial task force that is supposed to meet, discuss and make recommendations to President Donald Ramotar. With regards to the duty free allowance on spares, GGDMA said it wanted these to be extended to the small and medium scale miners. Large scale miners presently benefit from this concession. GGDMA insisted that the Ministry has spoken of benefits to miners on duty free concession, but these benefits are only for large mining operations. “The association perceives there has been a breakdown of communications as it refers to the Ministry statements on duty free for spare parts on equipment, and the reduction of tax on fuel. For the record, these statements can be deemed accurate, inter alia, the Mining Industry but the concessions are only extended to large scale miners and not small and medium scale.” With regards to a $1B allocation that Government says it has allocated for improving mining technologies and mercury free mining, GGDMA said that while it applauds the initiative, the intervention will only be long term and not likely to bring immediate relief to the industry. Even road works being conducted on interior roads are a problem, with delays being the biggest issue. “The association also appreciates the hundreds of millions of dollars voted for the maintenance of roads in the interior. However, bureaucracy has created a
The miners’ association is again pleading for meaningful interventions as the price of gold continues to tumble.
Operators are asking Govt. to revisit the interior roads’ programme as part of measures to help the sector recover.
situation whereby only 25% of the monies, (to the best of our knowledge) allocated, has been utilized to date.” The
mining body was critical in pointing out that while tenders inviting contractors for road repairs and maintenance are published in January of a given year, approval for these can take four to five months, significantly affecting the bill of quantities. This is because the roads would have deteriorated further from the publication of tender to the award necessitating further works. With respect to fuel, GGDMA said that through the intervention of President Ramotar, it received a licence to import and distribute fuel. “It is a fact that we assumed that this was an incentive, whereby we could have accessed and
distributed fuel at a lower cost than the major distributors, thereby reducing the miners’ cost of operations.” GGDMA hinted that the incentive does not make much sense, as Government has signalled intentions to raise the taxes on fuel imported by the association once it falls below local market levels. This was conveyed by Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh who said that there is a “concept of fair play” and “Government would reserve the right to increase taxes on fuel the association imports if we are supplying fuel lower than the major distributors, the government can increase taxes up to 50% in order to level the playing field and
ensure competitiveness.” GGDMA made it clear that it cannot compete with the major fuel distributors. “The association looks forward to continued dialogue with the Ministry, and urges urgent action, as most miners face an uncertain future in the industry as the price continues to slide.” Gold mining has been the largest foreign currency earner for the country in the last few years, with production breaking records in 2013. However, a sharp drop in world price last year from US$1900 to US$1200 per ounce has left the industry in tatters. Operating costs, especially from fuel, have been a major factor in several operations closing down. Hundreds of jobs have been lost because of the fallout. This year, it is most likely that the industry may not even make 400,000 ounces, far below the target of 481,000 ounces.
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 25
Captain of grounded Guyanese vessel recalls ordeal - no illegal items on board
The crew of MV Hatuna Matata (SKNVibes photo)
The vessel now sits in the St. Kitts Marine Works Ltd. Boat Yard (SKNVibes photo)
St. Kitts – Engine shutdown had caused a Guyana-registered vessel to run aground on a reef just off
the coast of Dieppe Bay last week Thursday. This is according to captain of the vessel, Narine Ramnarine.
On that morning, visitors to the Dieppe Bay beach saw the vessel which appeared to be in distress and summoned
Swedish newspaper report on gold mining…
Aussie firm, Burrowes deny criticising Govt. A Swedish newspaper report published last month which placed the gold mining sector in a bad light has sparked strong condemnations from one major investor and the country’s regulatory body, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). A Google-translated copy of the article, under the headline “The Gold Rush Is Leaving Wounds That Never Heal” was published yesterday by Kaieteur News. It was carried on November 14, 2014, in the Swedish newspaper, DN.se. The content of that news report was refuted by angry officials who said that it was largely inaccurate. The report, which focused on life in the gold bush, painted a picture of a corrupt industry that involved illegal Brazilians and a Government that had its hands in it. The majority of profits are being taken out with little benefits left for Guyana. The article quoted Keith Burrowes, Head of Guyana Office For Investment (GOInvest) as saying that “We (Guyana) have sold out our independence. And what do we get back? Nothing.” “We do not even know how many gold miners there are in the country. The government has lost control,” Burrowes reportedly said. The article also quoted Allan Woolford, the Director of Red Cross, who believed that the poisoned water is a result of the government not caring enough about consequences. “The government knows that it is hated and will not be reelected. Therefore, they sell out concessions now. They are trying to make as much
Keith Burrowes money as possible before they resign.” Chief Executive Officer, Ken Nilsson of Australian mining company, Troy Resources Ltd, also gave an interview. “I see great potential in Guyana. The problem is their government. We want to be transparent, but it would not they be,” he says in the translated version. The report sparked swift reaction from the named parties, including GGMC. Burrowes in a statement made it clear that the information presented in the report was totally inaccurate. The investment head insisted that he is “very stringent’ with respect to granting interviews and would ask to vet articles before they are published. Burrowes believed that the article by the Swedish newspaper was an effort to tarnish his relationship with the Government. “I wish to reiterate my loyalty to the current Government and will not indulge in this kind of nonsense, since I believe that this is not a misreporting on what I said, but is linked to current political situation in Guyana.” Yesterday, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, which has responsibilities for the mining
sector, wrote Troy Resources asking for clarifications on the purported statements by its CEO. Nilsson, in a statement, said that the reported wording was drawn from a short interview at Cara Lodge some time ago and printed without permission. He was not given the opportunity to comment on the piece before publication. “The article as presented is misleading, with the comments taken out of context; in addition the translation appears to be very sub-standard. At no time was there any derogative comments made as regards the Government of Guyana or the management of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.” GGMC, which monitors mining in Guyana, also had a statement. Deputy Commissioner, Newell Dennison, made it clear that the reporter did not explain what he meant that “the revenue from the gold disappears abroad”. “Investors do not undertake major investments without the aim of receiving adequate financial returns. Moreso, free flow of capital is encouraged, hence the initial investment being undertaken.” GGMC said that there are no special privileges for Brazilians or any other group. Rather, Brazilians are expected to be in conformity with the national laws and regulations. The regulatory body stressed that mining activities are not undertaken in a haphazard manner as suggested by the report with measures in place to protect the environment. This is built in with the terms and conditions of mining permits and licences.
help. It was not until a couple of days after the unfavourable weather conditions had abated, that crews from the St. Kitts Nevis Coast Guard and the St. Kitts Marine Works Ltd. (SKMW) were able to dislodge the vessel from the reef and transported it to the SKMW Boat Yard in New Guinea. SKNVibes spoke with Captain Ramnarine who explained how the vessel ended up on the reef. “We were going to St. Maarten and the engine was giving trouble and it cut out. When it cut out the boat drifted and drifted, and by the time we got it to start it was on the rock. When we tried to
get out there was rough water, breeze, rain etc…” Ramnarine was asked specifically if he had refused an offer of assistance by fishermen when they approached his vessel on that day, to which he responded in the negative. He said the crew members were not fearful during the ordeal, but a contingency plan was in place in the event of the vessel capsizing. “When the waves lashed the boat, it rocked from side to side. The water was so rough that over the time, the boat spun around a number of times. We took some barrels and made a raft just in case the boat didn’t hold
up…” The MV Hatuna Matata now sits in the St. Kitts Marine Works Ltd. Boat Yard and, according to the captain, it is undergoing repairs. He said pipes at the bottom of the vessel as well as the rudder were damaged during the incident. A search of the vessel by members of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force and the Customs Excise Department revealed no find of any illegal items. The four-member crew is in good health but the captain indicated that they are uncertain when repairs would be completed in order for them to be able to set sail again.
Friday December 05, 2014
Page 27
Kaieteur News
FOR REGENCY SUITES HOTEL THIS SUNDAY This Sunday, La Face Model Management will be hosting its second (2nd) annual Runway fashion party under the name ''Allure”. The event will be hosted at Regency Suites Hotel at 7pm. Tickets will cost $2000. This event was started exactly one (1) year ago under the theme “Exotica” which was slated for December of 2013 but was later held on February 9th of this year 2014, at the Pegasus Hotel. The event was said to be one of the best in recent times and featured renowned international designer Roger Gary and a few local designers including Isaiah Luther, Paul Burnett, Melesa Payne along with a some of our Mash 2014 Costume designs from Xcite. La Face Model Management has been around for three years and always strives to promote and produce the best talent in the fashion and modeling industry and as such you can only expect the best from us in the future as we continue. This year's event will be featuring not only local designers but also some of the new trendy and exciting garments available at some of our leading boutiques and fashion stores in Guyana. This event promises to be one of a kind, leaving its audience in anticipation for their new look.
Argentine ambassador hosts titillating
Tine Tasting Event
A wine-tasting event to promote the wines of Argentina was hosted by Argentina Ambassador to Guyana Luis Alberton Martino at Cara Lodge this week in a bid to capture more of the Guyanese market. The envoy noted that although Argentina is not the best at winemaking, it however has some of the best internationally- recognised wines. He elaborated that Argentina has the honour of being the eight wine producing country with a massive cultivated space of an estimated 504, 000 acres of vineyards. The wines offered at the wine-tasting were Torrontés, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc. The envoy acknowledged that other countries that play a major part in the
wine industry includes: Greece, France, Italy, Spain, United States of America, Australia, Chile, Portugal, Rome, South Africa. Guyana is already a buyer of Argentina's wines, nevertheless the ambassador emphasised that due to the fact that Guyana's market is not huge, much attention is not given. He said Demerara Distillers Limited and Pegasus are two buyers of Argentine wine in Guyana. Pegasus Hotel has bought barrels from the new Argentine winery Cavas Del 23. The shipment is expected in early 2015. Ambassador Martino explained that there is even an international day for wine, World Malbec Day on April 17. He said on this day, 15 towns around the world celebrate the event.
Slingerz Family prepares for
Vergenoegen Village Day For the last 13 years, patrons have enjoyed the annual Vergenoegen Village Day hosted by Slingerz Family entertainment. And this year will be no different as promoters promise more entertainment and excitement. This year will include more gifts, vibes and a children's' Christmas party in addition to a Christmas night show. The Village Day which will be on Christmas day will kick off with a 3-sider football at noon. There will also be prepared meals being shared to senior citizens within the village. As for the children party, this will commence from 14:00hrs with free meals and gifts for children. There will also be an after party where music will be provided by Kingston Jamaica Stone Love Movement and Kingston Jamaica
big party sound Copper Shot. Local entertainment will also be provided by Mystic, Jomo and Jackie Jaxx along with dancers.
CLUB
ESCAPE
birthnite party to explode tonight Tonight, Club Escape will come alive as 'Obama Family Entertainment' presents 'Cutty Birthnite Bash' at Good Intent, West Bank Demerara. The event will attract Guinness giveaways with other promotions which will commence on Friday, December, 5. Now in its third year, the annual event promises to be off the hook
and promoters say admission is easy. Music will be provided by Biglife and Fusions sound systems
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 05, 2014
Imagination and ambition are the directors to JOHN GREENE'S goals
By Nicholas Peters You may more popularly know John Greene from his photography. His work exhibits his imagination and flare for vibrancy in the Guyanese world. However, this skilled photographer is also an expert videographer. He has done advertising work for businesses like Gizmos and Gadgets, King's Jewelry, Glamour Designs and many others. More recently he's received a lot of acclaim for his “Happy We Are From Guyana” video, which featured several Georgetown citizens dancing to the tune of Pharrell Williams' pop hit “Happy”. Despite his success, sticking to commercials and music videos is not the future Greene has planned for himself. Come 2015, Greene is hoping to add “film director” to his list of professional achievements. Recently, Kaieteur Entertainment managed to do an interview with Greene surrounding his work as a videographer. Kaieteur Entertainment (KE): How did you get started in photography? John Greene (JG): Through art basically, because I'm an artist. I've always been fascinated with colours,
drawing and doing all of this different stuff. I started doing video first then photography started when a friend started showing me another photographer's work. The photographer was a local girl and I was quite impressed with her work. I was actually inspired when I saw her work. I've met her, and she laughed when I told her the story.
KE: What is the difference between photographic production and video production? JG: Photography can be a complicated thing when compared to video, but it depends on how you look at it. A photograph is a still image that can be manipulated how much you want it to be, but because it is one image it has to tell a story. A video could show you a lot of sequences, it can show you an entire room and you get an idea of the story. But that one image freezes one part of that moment of that story you want to tell. KE: What is the hardest part of video production? JG: Getting an idea. Anybody can make a video, anybody can take a DSLR and shoot a picture but it takes a lot to have a concept, an idea, a vision, something to work with that is worth it. I love that video is so complicated, I like things that are challenging; they motivate me. KE: What has the response been like to your work, particularly in video production? JG: The feedback has been good. I have a lot of followers and a lot of people are genuinely looking forward to my work. This is from online, a lot of people would say like I am the benchmark now. They The Maze Runner is the first book in a youngsay how I have set the standard for video adult post-apocalyptic science fiction trilogy of the production in Guyana. A lot of people say same name by James Dashner. The novel was that I am raising the bar higher and published on October 6, 2009, by Delacorte higher. Press, an imprint of Random House, and was I don't think about it like that... We have made into a 2014 major motion picture by 20th good videographers in Guyana, but I like Century Fox. The sequel to the movie, The Maze to do things differently. Runner: Scorch Trials is set to be released on KE: How would you describe the September 18, 2015. The novel spawned two landscape in Guyana for a videographer? sequels: The Scorch Trials (2010) and The Death JG: It can be a hit or miss. It's hard Cure (2011). anywhere but in Guyana; it's a bit more risky. For people who are coming into this ball game you definitely have to think twice. KE: Where do you get your inspiration to do your work? JG: Basically artistry has given me the ability to visualize things. Like if I am going to do an ad then I have no problem creating these concepts in my mind. I am inspired by it because I have such a deep imagination that goes back to artistry. KE: What are some of your favourite movies? JG: My all time favourite movie is Cast Away…its reality. If you were on an island that is how life would be. I like that survival aspect in that movie. Another one of my favourite movies is an animated movie called Meet the Robinsons. That movie has inspired me “Don't Tell 'Em” is a song by American recording tremendously in my life. Simply because artist Jeremih from his upcoming third studio there is a Walt Disney quote which says album, Late Nights. It features American “keep moving forward”. So whenever I fail recording artist YG, and was released as the at anything I always remember that second single from the album. quote.
English ‘Movie of the Week:
English ‘Song of the Week:
The Maze Runner
KE: Do you think there is a future for film in Guyana? JG: Yes there is. I believe that we are headed in that direction. I believe we have the talent here to do that, and in time we will get there. I, myself, am working on a feature film that I am currently writing the script for…It is a project that I want to do… hopefully next year I will start shooting it. But this is going to be a short movie; it's not going to be a full two hour movie. And I also have some other shorter 10 minutes films due to come out next year too. So that is something interest to look forward to.
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Kaieteur News
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Nissan Wing Road, PSS Series, price - $1.5M negotiable Excellent Condition - Call: 698-5949
Sale! Sale! Dell/Hp Computers Complete with 19" LCDs, Laptops from $49,000, Blackberry from $14,000 @ FutureTech – 231-2206
One Toyota RAV4 2002 Model, fully loaded- PMM 7257 – Call: 628-0060
Plant Sale on 6th -12th December outside St. Roses High School: poinsettia, Orchids Rose etc or call: 652-8322
2002 Rav4 mags, A/C, alarm, auto start, lady driven, excellent condition, price $2.8M negotiable – Call: 6295300 AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call:680-3154
Enclosed Canter Truck$600,000 negotiable – Call:676-0455. Special Sale! 2003 Toyota Premio - $2.3M, Spacio $2.1M, Fully Loaded, unregistered. Tel: 617-2891
Two forklifts Clarke & Toyota 5000lbs, wood mizer XT40 sawmill, fire proof explosion proof safe – Call: Paul: 612-7206; 619-7393 Games for PS2, PS3, XBOX360, WII, consoles also available – Call: 6722566, 265-3232 UsedAC split units in excellent working order. Peake brand. 664-5401, 615-5343
LAND FOR SALE Parika (Butcher Shop Street) - One (1) Lot 38' X 150' $ 7m Contact 650-0402 - for serious inquiries One land Located at Cornelia Ida W.C.D, Phone, water & light, Price $2.5M – Contact: 652-0709; 276-0556 Blankenburg @ The Back Of Gas Station (3) Lots @ 75' X 76' Each. $20M for all 3 Lots. (1) Lot for $10m - Contact 650-0402
1 Massive 2- story concrete house & land @ Public Road, Vreed-En-Hoop, can be used for business or residence Call:626-2237, 602-3294 2 STORIED 3 BEDROOMS CONCRETE & WOODEN PROPERTY ON LARGE LAND 300FTX40FT, IN BERBICE, NEAR CANJE BRIDGE. CALL MAX: 6098132, 672-8569
Contract Cars Call City Taxi Service; lot 8 Vlissengen Road, Tel: 660-1100
Friday December 05, 2014
Parfaite Harmonie (Dairy) $1.4M (110ftX50ft) Business spot - $3.2M, Grove (with foundation) - $2.5M – Call: 652-2018, 675-7292
Used Dell E4300, E6500 M4400, HP Elite Book 6930 Laptops – Contact Sean: 226-9377
FOR SALE Panel indicating light, Genset exhaust box, contractors & relay. Tel: 627-7835
Rubberized Tarpaulins for sale 20X20 - $20,000, any size available – Tel: 600-0498
1 Heavy Duty Button Hole Machine. Call 223-9727 or 673-0373
LOREX Security System complete with cameras. Brand new and used – 664 5401, 615-5343 Mixed breed puppies for sale. Tel:253-3114; 692-0126 or 662-3139 XMAS SALE – Wicker & Rattan Furniture. Beautiful designs. Showroom: 68 AA Victoria Ave, Eccles E.B.D. 652-5601, 613-8740, 629-4269 Xbox ONE, Xbox 360 $40,000, PS3 - $35,000, Nintendo 3DS - $25,000, PSP - $16,000. Call:621-7497/603-8643 Clean Garden Earth Delivery on Spot, also bobcat & excavator rental. Tel: 626-7127 110 Corolla - $1.2M, Avensis $2.6M - Call: 645-0078, 603-0078 (Continued on page 31)
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 31
Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views
Examples where the abolition of corporal punishment has been successful DEAR EDITOR, I have fought many battles on various fronts is my time, won many and lost a few. The conversation on the abolition of corporal punishment is just another one of those battles and I shall win no matter what. This may not happen in my lifetime but the records will show and my children or grandchildren would be able to testify, with confidence, my dad/ granddad contributed to this debate. My aim today is to share with fellow Guyanese one of many examples where the abolition of corporal punishment has been successful. My research is guided by Joan E Durrant, PhD – a leading Child Clinical Psychologist and Associate Professor of Family Social Sciences, not Wikipedia, and I have chosen Sweden, one of the first countries in the world to abolish corporal punishment. Sweden was chosen because I would like
to alleviate the fears of those who are of the opinion that we will wake up one morning and corporal punishment would be consigned to history. Change involves time unless there is a Coup d’etat. In Sweden the whole process took 51years from 1928 (sufficient concern) to 1979 (total ban on spanking), and along that journey numerous conversations, assessments, evaluations and amendments occurred. Here is the timeline. In 1928, there was sufficient concern about this situation that the Education Act was amended to forbid corporal punishment in the secondary schools. The success of this early measure, together with continuing concern about the level of violence permitted toward children in the home, led to a change in the Parenthood and Guardianship Code (a civil code governing family law) in 1949. In an attempt to reduce severe beatings, the word “punish”
was replaced by “reprimand” in the section defining permissible parental behaviour. In 1957, the section permitting parents to use force in reprimanding their children was completely removed from the Penal Code. The intent of this change was to provide children with the same protection from assault that adults receive and to clarify the grounds for criminal prosecution of parents who abused their children. Parents’ rights to use corporal punishment had still not been eliminated completely. In 1979, the proposal of a total ban on corporal punishment was put to a vote in Parliament following a range of successful longitudinal studies and evaluations. There was virtually no opposition; the proposal was supported by all parties and the final vote was 259 in favour and 6 against (Sverne, 1994). The approach to this achievement was multifaceted
and complex. The people of Sweden, the majority, were willing to experiment on this rather radical and intrusive development. The purpose of the ‘change in the law’ was to make it clear to Swedish citizens that hitting children is not permitted. It was also intended to educate parents about the importance of giving their children good care. It removed what could be construed as a silent sanction of corporal punishment and is the culmination of an evolutionary process that saw Swedish society increasingly reject corporal punishment as a means of educating children and increasingly recognize the rights of children as individuals. It was the educational component of the law that was seen as most important, rather than the potential for legal penalties. Here are a few quotes that will trigger a rethink in those
who I would refer to as the stubborn. “The greatest terror a child can have is that he is not loved, and rejection is the hell he fears” (John Steinbeck). “There never was a time when a major social problem was solved by beating a child. And there never will be such a time” (Dr. C. Everett Koop). “If we are ever to turn toward a kindlier society and a safer world, a revulsion against the physical punishment of children would be a good place to start.” (Dr. Benjamin Spock). “When will our consciences grow so tender that we will act to prevent human misery rather than avenge it?” (Eleanor Roosevelt). “If we are to teach real peace in this world, and if we are to carry on a real war against war, we shall have to begin with the children” (Mahatma Gandhi). “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children” (Nelson Mandela). Brendon Mounter
The no Confidence Motion debate would have been the ultimate “cuss down” DEAR EDITOR, I fully support the President’s decision to Prorogue the 10th Parliament. With this action by Government, all respectful adults and more importantly our children were spared from the ultimate “cuss down” on the 10th of November 2014. If you recall the attitude of the thirty three opposition members, week after week in the Nation Assembly, then you would surely agree with me that Guyana was saved from what would have been the Caribbean biggest shouting match. My view is
strongly supported by the fact that every time there is a sitting of the house, Members of Parliament on the Opposition side tend to use the opportunity to launch personal verbal attacks on Ministers of Government and Members of Parliament of the ruling PPP/C Government. This type of behavior is a far cry from what is expected of persons elected to represent the best interest of our country. I challenge the members of the opposition to show me how this type of behavior benefits any of their
constituents. These personal attacks are sometimes so distasteful that they provoke a rebuke from the Speaker of the House. One would recall when Raphael Trotman was elected Speaker of the House, the Hon. Prime Minister requested that The House get on with the people’s business in the 10th Parliament. Sadly, after three years Government was rejected in every move to get parliamentary approval to continue its developmental agenda for the benefit of all stakeholders. For me, the lowest point as a spectator in
The true test of character From page 4 who according to the Bible was born in a stable in the most humble of circumstances. Today, the celebration is far removed from the concept of humility and care for the needy into one of ostentatious lifestyles and pure vanity. As mentioned before, we live in an age of consumerism which is lavishly promoted by the media. Millions, nay billions of dollars are spent advertising consumer items with all kinds of incentives to lure consumers into spending their money. Supermarkets in the city are giving away millions of dollars in cash and other consumer goods during the holiday period in order to whip
customers into a shopping frenzy. I often wonder how much better off we would have been if these expenditures were put to lower the cost of the consumer items if only to the extent of the millions spent on advertising and incentives to a few “lucky” customers. All of this I know is wishful thinking and far removed from the corporate business world where competition is the name of the game. But we live in an imperfect world and the market especially under capitalism is highly imperfect. Consumer ignorance is exploited to the maximum especially when there are incentives to shop for which one is hardly likely to benefit. There
are so many instances when I go to the supermarket and purchase an item only to find that the same or a better quality of the said item could be found at another supermarket at a much lower price. When all is said and done, the true test of character is humility. There is tremendous strength in being humble and down-to-earth, traits that are universally adored. If there is one lesson that could be learnt from the work and teachings of Christ, it is the power of humility. To o m a n y p e o p l e o f power and influence fall prey to the trappings of this material world to such extent that they virtually loose their souls. Hydar Ally
the house must have been when mention was made of an ailment suffered by the Hon. Director of Sport. This was to me a huge display of insensitivity and a lack of professional tact by the Opposition MP that made a most distasteful attempt at heckling. His Excellency acted in the most fitting way with this Prorogation of the 10th Parliament. He has saved our children from about two weeks of exposure to some of the most rotten rants by socalled leaders. I have no reason to doubt also that all nasty rhetoric which would have come from this debate would have been in the full view of our children. And of course this would have been all due to the one sided, unbalanced and sensationalized reporting of the “Green Press.” One only needs to look at the unedited recordings of every past sitting and see what transpired. The
behavior of some Opposition MP’s made the Sophia Bus Park looked like a church in comparison. It was very easy to mistake the National Assembly with the Fish Market. This type of display must never be allowed to continue. Our elected officials must see Election Day as the day their job application is approved or not, by the populace. They must never forget the fact that they were not elected to the House to execute personal vendetta or malice. They are servants of the people so we need to see them act to fulfill their constitutional responsibility. Guyana’s people have entrusted them with a mandate to do all that is collectively possible to improve their communities, better their living standards, and to ensure the prosperous and peaceful coexistence of all Guyanese. Guyana is waiting for action in this direction. Ossie Rodgers
(From page 30)
WANTED One receptionist/secretary, experienced required. Send application & CV to 48 High Street, Werk-En-Rust, G/ Town. Live-in Domestic to work in Mahaicony River. 225-6571, 644-6905 One Nail Technician specialized in Nail Art design, Air Brush and also Hair Extension. Tel: 231--6000 Handyman / gardener, age 45-50years old, preferably from Georgetown - East Coast Demerara - Call:6483817 Land to buy in Providence, Herstelling, Eccles, Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt, Zeelugt. Call Anita: 6777095, 652-2018 One domestic cleaner, E.C.D – Tel:644-9802 One manager to work at an out of town Hotel – Call: 226-9768, 642-7963, 6290037 Baker & table hand for Bakery @ Best Village, to bake bread, preferably from W.C.D -Tel:254-1399,627-2515 Female janitors, between ages 25-40 years - Call: 225-8066 Live in Couple Berbice/ E s s e q u i b o p r e f e r a b l y, Husband –Driving/ mechanic, Wi f e Domestic. Tel: 227-1830 One night security guard between 35-50yrs preferably from G.Town , with experienced. Tel:6233231 or 225-3198 One experienced driver for one 32 Zone minibus. Call: 629-2302, 610-3081 Experienced truck driver, for the interior - Contact: 2269768. LABOURERS MUST BE ABLETOWORKFLEXIBLE HOURS, BETWEENAGES 21-35. FOR MORE INFORMATIONCALL:2318344 Bartenders to work at an out of town hotel -Call: 226-9768 FOR SALE DJ Amplifier 2 Crest Audio CA12, DBX Drive rack – Call:689-3170
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Patentia shallow grave murder…
Tenant accused of killing landlord ‘unfit to stand trial’
A 34-year-old man accused of beheading his landlord and burying the body in the backyard of his P a t e n t i a , We s t B a n k Demerara home, six years ago, is mentally incompetent to stand trial, a judge ruled yesterday. Andre Hurdle, who has been remanded since April 21, 2008, was listed to be tried on a murder charge before Justice Brassington Reynolds at the Georgetown High Court during the current session of the Demerara Assizes. Hurdle called ‘Dumb Boy’, of Lot 93 Patentia, is accused of murdering his 54-year-old landlord, Ramesh Singh called ‘Chookul’ sometime between March 7 and April 17, 2008. Last month, Hurdle was taken before Justice Reynolds for the trial to commence but due to his “disorderly behaviour,” the judge ordered that he be mentally evaluated. At yesterday’s hearing, a psychiatric evaluation was presented to the
Dead: Ramesh Singh
Andre Hurdle
presiding Judge by P s y c h i a t r i s t , D r. B h i r o H a r r y. T h e s p e c i a l i s t concluded that Hurdle was not fit to stand trial and could benefit from more treatment. After listening to the report, Justice Reynolds ruled that Hurdle was mentally incompetent to stand trial. Judge Reynolds’ decision means Hurdle will be sent back to a state facility where doctors will try to treat him to see if they can restore his competency to a
point, where he understands the case against him. At present, the matter stands adjourned and Hurdle was further remanded. His case is being prosecuted by Sta t e Prosecutors, Attorneys-atLaw Teshana James-Lake, Stacy Goodings and Orinthia Schmidt. Previous reports indicate it was weeks after the landlord was slain that his body was found around 12:20 hours on April 18, 2008, buried in a shallow
grave. S i n g h ’s s o n M a h e s h reportedly went to his f a t h e r ’s F o u r t h St r e e t , Patentia home after receiving reports that he was missing. It was there that the young man was reportedly told by a neighbour that he had seen the accused digging a hole in the backyard. The accused had reportedly claimed that he was digging the hole for a latrine and had allegedly told neighbours, who enquired as to the whereabouts of his landlord, that the man had left for Suriname. At the first court appearance at the Vreed-enHoop Magistrates’ Court, presiding Magistrate Fazil Azeez was told that Hurdle was dumb and hearingimpaired. He was remanded and the case was transferred to the Wales Magistrates’ Court. According to court documents, Hurdle was committed to stand trial by Magistrate Ann McLennan in 2011.
Another Magistrate suspended - Chandra Sohan given temporary marching orders Magistra t e C h a n d r a Sohan became the latest victim of the newlyconstituted Judicial Service Commission (JSC) when he was given temporary marching orders on Wednesday following a brief hearing into complaints brought against him, relating to his work. Kaieteur News understands that Senior Magistrate Sohan, who was presiding in the Georgetown Traffic Court, was suspended for a number of alleged infractions, one of which has to do with conduct that borders on criminality. He follows Sparendaam C o u r t ’s Magistrate Alex Moore who was sent off temporarily last week by the JSC over alleged inappropriate conduct while on the bench. This newspaper contacted JSC member Justice Prem Persaud who confirmed the decision on Sohan, but refused to give details. In fact, Justice Persaud, who is also the Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission, was apprehensive about speaking to this newspaper over the telephone, citing the infamous recording of Attorney General Anil Nandlall.
Magistrate Chandra Sohan According to reports, the Judicial Service Commission is looking into a complaint made by a woman, in relation to a court matter involving domestic violence. The matter was heard sometime last year at the Vreed en Hoop Magistrate’s Court, when Sohan was briefly presiding there. There are allegations that Sohan appeared to be biased towards the woman’s husband during the time he was dealing with the matter. However, according to a source, Sohan is known
to the couple and merely gave advice for an amicable settlement of the matter b e f o r e it was dragged through the court. In fact the matter was ass i g n e d t o a n o t h e r Magistrate and the woman had been insisting on several occasions that she did not wish to pursue the matter in the court. Surprisingly, the woman wrote to the JSC complaining about the magistrate’s conduct in the matter. Sohan is also being a c c u s e d o f l e aving the jurisdiction in December last year without permission. Magistrates are required to get approval from the Chancellor of the Judiciary to travel overseas. This newspaper was reliably informed that Sohan left the country on compassionate leave to attend the funeral of a very close relative. The source said that at the time, Sohan tried to get the approval of the Chancellor of the Judiciary Carl Singh to deal with his travel request on compassionate grounds, but he was not in the country. He reportedly secured the blessing of his immediate boss, the Chief
Magistrate who reassigned some of his cases to other magistrates. But perhaps the most troubling infraction being looked at by the JSC is what it called “some inconsistencies” with regards to Magistrate Sohan’s dealing with other court matters. According to reports, the JSC is investigating the difference between the Magistrate’s records as against those in the police dockets in relation to a few cases that were before him. A source close to the matter told this newspaper that it has to do with the amount of bail being granted to defendants appearing before Sohan. The move by the JSC could weigh significantly against Sohan’s upward mobility in the magistracy. Sohan, who was the magistrate that committed Social Activist Mark Benschop to the High Court in an alleged treason m a t t e r, w a s t i p p e d t o replace Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry who is expected to be elevated to a judge soon. He is no stranger to controversy, having been involved in a much publicised spat with the police a few years ago.
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More air strikes near Tripoli in U.S. discloses failed attempt struggle between Libya’s rival groups to rescue American in Yemen
TRIPOLI (Reuters) Forces allied to one of two rival governments vying for power in Libya launched an air strike near Tripoli on Thursday, officials and residents said, in a struggle that began when one group seized the capital in August and set up its own cabinet. Libya is caught in fighting between two sides, each with its own government and
parliament. One is a selfdeclared government created after fighters from a group known as Libya Dawn took over Tripoli in August. The other is the internationally recognized government, forced out of Tripoli and now operating from the east of the country. Both sides gave different accounts of the target of Thursday’s air strike.
The Libya Dawn-linked government said through its own state news website that the target had been a poultry farm in Qaser Ben Gashir, a town south of Tripoli. The area is close to the old Tripoli airport, which was the scene of a month-long battle in the summer. But the army of Prime Minister Abdullah al-Thinni’s government said it had hit military installations and positions of Libya Dawn in Qaser Ben Gashir, its spokesman Mohamed El Hejazi said. “We are extending our strikes as long as we know more about the ammunition places,” he said. Residents said they had heard an explosion in the area. At least three people were killed on Tuesday in air strikes on a town west of Tripoli, again carried out by forces loyal to Thinni, officials said. After the NATO-backed war ended Muammar Gaddafi’s one-man rule in 2011, oil-producing Libya has struggled to reach stability.
Reuters) - The United States on Thursday for the first time publicly disclosed a failed attempt last month to rescue a U.S. citizen held hostage by al Qaeda’s Yemen branch, and the group threatened to kill him in a new video posted on the Internet. U.S. officials said President Barack Obama last month authorized a secret raid to rescue Luke Somers, a 33year-old journalist who was kidnapped in Yemen’s capital Sanaa in September 2013. Somers was not at the targeted location, although other hostages were freed, the officials said. “As soon as the U.S. government had reliable intelligence and an operational plan, the president authorized the Department of Defense to conduct an operation to recover Mr. Somers,” said Bernadette Meehan, a spokeswoman for the White House National Security Council. “Regrettably, Luke was not present.” Pentagon spokesman
A man, who identified himself as Luke Somers, speaks in this still image taken from video purportedly published by Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula Rear Admiral John Kirby said the rescue operation was carried out in partnership with Yemen’s military and involved air and ground
components. “Details about the mission remain classified,” Kirby said. In the assault on a cave in remote Hajr as-Say’ar district in the eastern province of Hadramout, U.S. and Yemeni security forces rescued six Yemenis, a Saudi and an Ethiopian, and killed seven al Qaeda kidnappers, Yemeni officials said previously. The Yemeni defense ministry’s 26sept.net website later quoted a soldier who had participated in the rescue as saying an American, a Briton and a South African held there had been moved elsewhere two days earlier. The U.S. disclosure came after the appearance of a new video by al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), the militant network’s Yemen arm, purporting to show Somers and threatening to kill him if unspecified demands were not met. The man identifying himself as Somers said he was looking for “any help that can get me out of this situation.”
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
British is alleged to be using the Caribbean in a “two-card trick” over Commonwealth post LONDON, England — In addition to hosting the headquarters of the Commonwealth Secretariat and having Queen Elizabeth II as the organisation’s head, the British government, in defiance of long 0standing conventions, is alleged to be using the Caribbean in a “twocard trick” to have a sitting member of the British parliament elected as Commonwealth secretary general when the post becomes vacant in 2016. “It is understood that the British are adopting a ‘twoway trick’, to get one of their own into the position. They want to put forward either Baroness Amos or Baroness Scotland. They are both black peers and former ministers who sit in the British House of Lords in Westminster,” said Kayode Soyinka, editor-in-chief of Africa Today. In addition to pushing Guyanese-born Baroness Valerie Amos for the position, Britain has also appointed a Commonwealth envoy, David Concar, an official who was involved in the selection of the recently appointed Kenyan deputy secretary general responsible for political affairs. The new envoy will reportedly spend between now and the elections for the post at the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Malta in November 2015 visiting every Commonwealth country to push the British candidature. It is also alleged that the British calculate that, if they fail to get Amos through as their own candidate they
Baroness Valerie Amos
Baroness Patricia Scotland
have a fall-back candidate in the shape of another sitting member of the House of Lords and former British minister, Dominica-born Baroness Patricia Scotland. Concern has been expressed that, if Britain succeeds with either Amos (on its own) or with Scotland (with Caribbean collusion), the Commonwealth will be seen by Africa and Asia once again as “British” with London having the Secretariat, the secretarygeneral and the headship of the organisation. In particular, it is claimed that it will not be an organisation of benefit to the Caribbean. Indeed, it will be the reverse, with yet another multi-lateral organisation telling the region what is good for it. Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has claimed that he is sponsoring Scotland’s candidacy for the
post because she was “born in Dominica”, even though she left there when she was just two years old and has never worked for any Dominica government, Caribbean government or Caribbean institution. Scotland’s nomination has resulted in supporters and detractors weighing in on the issue. “Given the baroness’s many ministerial positions in the United Kingdom, why is she not a UK government nominee?” one senior Caribbean minister asked. On the other hand, Dr Nicholas Liverpool, a former president of Dominica, wrote a lengthy op-ed in her support. Even though she is a sitting member of the British parliament, Scotland represented Dominica at two high level meetings of foreign minister in New York in recent months, which reportedly caused some consternation on the part of other attendees.
Dominica airport fire described as “a strange occurrence” ROSEAU, Dominica CMC – Fire destroyed a building housing communication equipment at the Douglas Charles airport belonging to the Dominica Air and Seaports Authority (DASA) on Wednesday, the DSPA chief executive officer Benoit Bardouille has confirmed. Bardouille told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that while he would not want to “point a finger at anyone…it is a strange occurrence”. His remarks were in apparent reference to the controversy surrounding the
return of Dominicans to vote in the December 8 general elections. Leader of the main opposition United Workers Party (UWP) Lennox Linton had at a rally of his party over the last weekend urged supporters to travel to the airport, north of here, to meet with the returning nationals in a bid to get them to stay away from the polls. “We have a democracy to protect, we have a vote to protect from criminal behavior. We have a vote to protect from an illegal overseas vote from violation of the House of Assembly Elections Act in Dominica
that Roosevelt Skerrit and his gangs are threatening to use and take the result of the election in their favour,” he said. But Skerrit speaking at a public meeting here on Tuesday night described Linton’s statement as “reckless” and warned that it could jeopardise the security and economic well being of the island. But Skerrit, who is predicting a “landslide” in the election, told supporters that Linton had become “so power hungry that he would risk the lives of the said people he would.
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Beal leads Wizards in 111-95 win over Kobe, Lakers Washington (AP) - Kobe Bryant got off to a fast start in the first quarter before slowing down in the second half. Bryant scored 15 of his 20 first-half points in the opening quarter, and then missed all seven field-goal attempts in the second half as Washington clamped down on the Los Angeles Lakers’ star in the Wizards’ 111-95 victory Wednesday night. Bryant finished with 29 points. Beal had 27 points as Washington used Paul Pierce on Bryant in the third quarter. Pierce had 14 points before leaving with a jammed left big toe late in the third. The veteran forward said it was ‘’inflamed,’’ and had been bothering him for a few days.
Bryant and Pierce have a combined 34 years of NBA experience, and they exchanged pleasantries several times during the game. Pierce was more concerned about Bryant’s shooting instead of his chatter. ‘’I want to make him work,’’ Pierce said. ‘’You’re never going to stop him all the way.’’ Marcin Gortat had 21 points and 11 rebounds while John Wall had 17 points and 15 assists for the Wizards, who won their third straight and prevented Los Angeles from getting its first threegame winning streak in more than a year. Former Wizards player Nick Young helped keep the score relatively close by
scoring a season-high 21 points. The Wizards closed the first half by scoring seven straight and began the third quarter by scoring seven more for a 14-0 run to take a 61-52 lead with 9:24 to play in the period. Bryant hit two free throws with 2:05 to play to cut Washington’s lead to 97-93, but the Wizards outscored the Lakers 14-2 to pull away. ‘’Kobe, or players like him, figure you out after a period of time,’’ Washington coach Randy Wittman said. Kris Humphries had 20 rebounds, three short of his career high, as the Wizards outscored the Lakers 56-20 in the paint. TWO MORE YEARS Lakers: Coach Byron
Friday December 05, 2014 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Things regarding love and romance may be climactic for you now, Aries, and you may bump heads with someone in a way that makes it difficult for either one of you to be content. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You may find that you're taking a much more daring approach when it comes to love and romance now, Taurus. If you aren't, than maybe you should. GEMINI (May21–June20) Things should go well for you today, Gemini, especially in the love and romance department. CANCER(June21–July22) There may be too much fiery energy in the day to make you feel comfortable with the situation, Cancer. Instead of trying to resist this powerful force, it would be better if you embraced it. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You m a y f i n d t h a t others are hostile toward you today, Leo. Try not to take it personally. Realize that there are other people and situations with which you can connect that will help bolster your ego instead of drag it down. VIRGO (Aug. 23 – S e p t . 22) Put your incredible sensitivity to work for you today in a way that inspires action, Virgo. There's so much within you that needs expression at this time.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Things should be going well for you today, so don't miss the opportunities that await you, Libra. There's a sparkle in your eye that's unmistakable, and you will find that issues regarding love and romance are especially potent. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Don't let other people's insensitive actions dictate your mood today, Scorpio. Your state of mind is your responsibility, and you should work to come to a point at which you have full control over what you feel at all times. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You should find that you have an extra amount of creative energy now, Sagittarius, and you should do what you can to make this force work for you. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You may have been a bit indecisive lately when it comes to love and romance, Capricorn. Perhaps your mind is drawn to one person while your heart is drawn to another. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You're apt to be in a romantic mood today, Aquarius. Your whole being may revolve around love and romance. You will find that your romanticism is heightened. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Feel free to strike out for new territory today, Pisces, especially when it comes to love and romance. It could be that you're so scared of losing what you have that you refuse to take risks to obtain something better that you want.
Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots against Marcin Gortat #4 of the Washington Wizards on December 3, 2014 at the Verizon Center in Washington, DC. (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images) Scott hopes that he can convince Bryant to consider playing beyond next season, the last on his current contract. ‘’He’s got a lot left in that tank. I think if we put something together that excites him, we have a real good chance of saying, ‘play another year,’’’ Scott said
GCA competitions bowl on this weekend Matches in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) New Building Society second division 40-over and Banks Malta Supreme Under-13 tournaments continue this weekend. In the second division tomorrow from 10:30hrs, Ace Warriors will face Third Class at Muslim Youth Organisation (Umpires Mario Nicholls and Deon Faessal); Transport Sports Club (TSC) will travel to Gandhi Youth Organisation (Javed Persaud and Zaheer Mohamed) and Everest will host GNIC (M. Yosef Yisrael and Cyril Garnath). On Sunday, Everest will entertain Georgetown Cricket Club (Yisrael and Garnath). In Under-13 play on Sunday at GYO, TSC and Malteenoes SC will match skills from 09:00hrs and Demerara Cricket Club will battle the home team from 13:00hrs (Daniel Richmond and Randolph Rose) while Everest will take on Diplomats commencing at 09:00hrs at MYO; Reginald Grant and Heuvel Cunha are the officials in charge.
before the game. Bryant said he’d think about it. ‘’If I want to play, I’ll play. I tend to make my own decisions. If I don’t want to play, I won’t play,’’ he said.
Pierce was impressed that Humphries had so many rebounds. ‘’I told Humphries, that’s the reason he got paid. It wasn’t that jump shot,’’ Pierce said.
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
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TV allegations a pack of lies Sarfraz 76* steers - Russian Athletics chief Pakistan into 1-0 lead
Reuters - A German TV documentary alleging widespread doping and cover-ups among Russian track and field competitors contains “a pack of lies”, the country’s athletics federation president told Reuters yesterday. “I can say that there are a pack of lies and it is an unfair account,” Valentin Balakhnichev said. “We are now undertaking a technical assessment concerned with the situation, which everyone here is doing. We know why this campaign against our federation was implemented. I will make a fuller statement today.” The hour-long program, broadcast by ZDF/ARD on Wednesday, features an undercover video of what it says are Russian athletes and coaches admitting to covering up positive tests. The video, which has not been seen or verified by Reuters, also alleges corruption and a systematic doping issue among Russian athletes and high-ranking officials. The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) said in a statement that they were “grave allegations”. “An investigation by the IAAF Ethics Commission is already ongoing with respect to some of the allegations,” added the
Shahid Afridi rattled Martin Guptill’s stumps, Pakistan v New Zealand, 1st T20, Dubai, December 4, 2014 © AFP
IAAF. “ We w o u l d l i k e t o underline the Ethics Commission is completely independent of the IAAF and has full powers to investigate and issue sanctions when relevant.” The Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) said there was nothing to support the allegations. “They do not have the facts or the documents which support any offences carried out against the anti-doping principles,” said RUSADA managing director Nikita Kamaev in an interview with R-Sport Agency. “In terms of the television program, I have not seen it as I do not understand German well enough. Therefore I am not able to comment on it. FULLINVESTIGATION “In terms of the statement on WADA’s (World AntiDoping Agency) website, RUSADA has not received an
official request regarding this issue. We believe the speculation and the statements are completely unfounded.” WADA said it would ensure any pertinent matters raised in the documentary would be “fully investigated”. “WADA has in fact already received some information and evidence of the type exposed in the documentary. All of that information has been passed to the appropriate independent body within the international federation, the IAAF. “We will await the outcome of that independent body’s deliberations,” added WADA. “In so far as the particular allegations against Russian authorities and others are concerned, these will all be carefully scrutinized and if action is warranted, WADA will take any necessary and appropriate steps under the Code.”
Monta Ellis hits absurd... From page 38 in the final seconds of Wednesday night’s game between the Mavs and host Milwaukee Bucks. With 8.9 seconds on the clock and the score tied at 105-105, Ellis took the inbounds pass and prepared to take the defending O.J. Mayo oneon-one. Mayo did very well and forced Ellis into two help defenders, which presumably would have caused the ballhandler to force a shot or pass to another player who would have very little time to beat the clock. Instead, Ellis spun to his left, took two steps in the same direction, and faded away for a 10.0degree-of-difficulty shot over Mayo: The stunning finish was upheld after video review and the Mavs left town with a 107-105 win. It initially looked like Ellis might have traveled, but his movement was legal —
it was just a very odd interpretation of the rules. A running fadeaway out of a spin move just isn’t a shot many players will consider, let alone choose to take. It’s an incredible play regardless of its impact on the game. It also marked the second night in a row in which Monta had helped Dallas to a win with some late-game ingenuity. Ellis forced a very foolish foul from Kirk Hinrich in the final seconds of regulation on Tuesday night vs. the Bulls and then hit three free throws to send the game to overtime, where the Mavericks eventually won. On the other hand, Ellis wasn’t especially efficient in either game outside of those two huge moments. With 21 points on 11-of-26 shooting vs. the Bucks, Monta has now scored 61 points on 61 field goal attempts in his last two games. I imagine Dallas will take it.
Dallas Mavericks guard Monta Ellis (11) drives for a layup during the second quarter
Opening for the first time in a T20 international, Sarfraz Ahmed made a breezy unbeaten 76 to steer Pakistan to a seven-wicket win over New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium. Sarfraz put on 51 with Awais Zia for the first wicket, and an unbroken 43 with Umar Akmal for the fourth wicket, to take Pakistan past their target of 136 with five balls remaining, Akmal ending the contest with a straight six off James Neesham. New Zealand had two good partnerships in the middle part of their innings, with Corey Anderson involved in both, but struggled either side of them. Their total was at least 15 short of being genuinely challenging, even if Pakistan kept the game interesting by losing two wickets to runouts. Sarfraz had only batted once in his four previous T20 games for Pakistan, at number eight, and he quickly set about showing what a waste of talent that had been, slapping Mitchell McClenaghan to the point boundary and stepping down the track to the debutant fast bowler Matt Henry to sweep him over the fine-leg boundary. At the other end, Awais Zia looked a little leadenfooted against the pace of Henry and Adam Milne, but quickly realised he would be best served giving Sarfraz the
strike. The pair brought up Pakistan’s first half-century opening stand in 18 matches before lazy running brought about its end at the start of the ninth over. When Luke Ronchi threw out Mohammad Hafeez an over later, when the batsmen unwisely tried to pinch a legbye off a fumble, Pakistan were in a bit of a bother. Sarfraz, though, wasn’t letting the wickets disrupt his flow. He immediately crashed Corey Anderson for successive fours, and slogged him for a six over cow corner to bring up his halfcentury. That over brought Pakistan 17 runs, and brought the equation down to 59 required off 54 balls. Sarfraz simply needed someone to stay with him and Haris Sohail seemed to be doing that before he swiped McClenaghan straight to the short midwicket fielder with Pakistan still 39 short of their t a rg e t . A k m a l c a m e i n , having missed out on P a k i s t a n ’s r e c e n t Te s t upsurge, and instantly reminded fans of what they had been missing. Henry returned to bowl the 16th over, and Akmal took three fours off that over, the middle one a sweet pick-up shot over wide long-on. It was a canter from there on. Sent in to bat, New Zealand lost three wickets in their first three overs, each to a different bowler. Anwar Ali and Sohail Tanvir trapped
Kane Williamson and Anton Devcich lbw, respectively, before Mohammad Irfan then consumed Ross Taylor with one that lifted from just back of a length and popped off the shoulder of the bat to point. Martin Guptill and Anderson rebuilt the innings, picking up a boundary roughly every other over and putting on 46 off 41 balls. Guptill made 32 before Shahid Afridi bowled him through the gate with a slightly slower ball. New Zealand entered their most productive period after the dismissal, with Anderson and Ronchi bringing up their half-century partnership off just 32 balls. Anderson’s effortless power was in full evidence, particularly when he pulled Anwar for two flat sixes in the 13th over, and Ronchi was timing his drives through and over extra cover quite exquisitely. At 110 for 4 at the end of the 15th over, New Zealand looked set for 150 at least, but their scoring stalled once Anderson miscued a pull to deep midwicket two short of 50. Irfan and Tanvir varied their pace expertly in the last two overs, giving away just nine runs between them and dismissing Neesham and Ronchi in the process. New Zealand found the boundary only once in their last five overs, and even that came off the bottomedge. (ESPNcricinfo)
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 05, 2014
Brazil World Cup stadiums 50 Gambhir, Yuvraj omitted from probables percent over budget: report Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Zaheer Khan, Gautam Gambhir and Harbhajan Singh have been omitted from the 30-member preliminary squad for the World Cup picked by India’s selectors yesterday. It has been almost a year since any of them made the ODI side. It is understood that the selectors had decided to move on with the next generation and preferred current form over past performance, which worked against all the five players. Though any of the omitted players from the provisional squad can be picked in the final 15-man side, chances of the five senior players breaking into the squad are remote. The deadline for submitting the condensed squad to the ICC is January 7. “Seniors were also considered [for selection]. There was a discussion on everyone,” said BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel. “But the thought process was to give preference to performers. The youngsters have been doing very well at the domestic level so they could not be ignored. Barring major injuries, the World Cup squad would be from this lot. Captain’s views were also considered.” “I would not like to comment at this [whether it is the end for Sehwag and Yuvraj in international cricket] level as I mentioned earlier. I think all of us should be happy that a lot of young cricketers have been considered for this, as a part of the probables. I feel that considering the future after the World Cup is also part of the thought process.” Over the last two years, Sehwag has averaged 20.23 in 13 one-day matches. Gambhir’s is 23.58 from 30 matches in the same period. They had limited success in the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy, with only a fifty each from six games. Harbhajan led Punjab in the same tournament and managed seven wickets in six matches, while Yuvraj was similarly patchy with 168 runs from five matches. Zaheer has not
Fireworks explode over the stadium after the German team won their 2014 World Cup final against Argentina at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro July 13, 2014. Credit: Reuters/Fabrizio Bensch
Usain Bolt and Yuvraj Singh share a light moment, Bangalore, September 2, 2014 © AFP played competitive cricket since the IPL in May, and was ruled out of the Mumbai Ranji squad owing to fitness concerns. Manoj Tiwary makes the cut after highly productive showings in the Deodhar Trophy and Manish Pandey has been rewarded for consistent performances through the year, including in the IPL and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Kedar Jadhav, who made his debut in the Sri Lanka series, is also among 10 batsmen chosen. Ashok Dinda has picked up 19 wickets in nine 50-over matches, including a five-for against Jharkhand and a 4 for 33 in the Deodhar Trophy final to persuade the selectors. Left-arm chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav features among seven spinners led by R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Ishant Sharma, who was not part of the team in 2011, might have a chance to play his first World Cup.
There weren’t many other surprises, although Cheteshwar Pujara was not seen as a viable limited-overs prospect again. India have picked four wicketkeepers in MS Dhoni, Wriddhiman Saha, Sanju Samson and Robin Uthappa, which has left Dinesh Karthik surplus. Vinay Kumar, who had led Karnataka to three trophies last season and the Vijay Hazare title in March, could not find a place either. Besides these five cricketers, the selectors have also overlooked most of India’s World Cup-winning squad members. Dhoni, Kohli, Raina and Ashwin are the only survivors from the 2011 squad. Barring Sachin Tendulkar, who has retired, and Sreesanth, who has been banned for life for his alleged involvement in the IPL corruption scandal, all other members of the 2011 triumph were available for selection. (ESPNcricinfo)
Monta Ellis hits absurd buzzerbeater to lift Mavs over Bucks
Monta Ellis has rehabilitated his reputation since joining the Dallas Mavericks in the summer of 2013. A player previously known as a volume shooter with few contributions in other areas has benefited greatly from being
surrounded by other quality scorers and now looks like a dangerous, acceptably efficient guard for the best offense in the NBA. Ellis is a lot more valuable now that no one considers him a first option. For the most part, though,
Monta is the same player who frustrated many observers, particularly when it comes to taking and making bizarre shots made possible only by elite body control. One of his best and most successful examples of such a play came (Continued on page 37)
Reuters - The 12 stadiums used in this year’s soccer World Cup cost 50 percent more than planned and only six of the 35 promised public transportation projects were finished on time, according to an as yet unpublished report from Brazil’s Federal Accounts Court. Twelve arenas were remodeled or built from scratch at a cost of 8.44 billion reais ($3.26 billion), the court said in its most thorough report on World Cup spending since the tournament ended in July. The original estimate in 2010 was 5.6 billion. The most expensive was the redevelopment of the National Stadium in Brasilia, which cost 1.44 billion reais, nearly twice its original estimate and three times the cost of some of the arenas that were completely rebuilt. “The venues cost much more than they should have,” said Amir Somoggi, a finance and marketing consultant who works with some of Brazil’s biggest soccer clubs. “They went for Pharaonic
projects and we got left with white elephants.” With many stadiums delivered at the last minute and transportation projects incomplete or abandoned, there were fears the 2014 World Cup would be chaotic. However, the tournament was widely considered to be a success, featuring some of the best soccer for years and causing no serious off-field problems. Germany beat Argentina 1-0 in the final in Rio de Janeiro. The 130-page report, however, made it clear there was still plenty of work to be done. The government promised 26 new airport projects but just 14 were finished on time, said the report seen by Reuters and due to be published before Monday. Only six of the promised 35 public transportation projects were finished by the time the tournament kicked off. “We were hood-winked,” Somoggi said. “They said the World Cup would help Brazil take a huge leap forwards in terms of public transportation
but all they did was the stadiums. The economy is no longer in a great shape so there is no guarantee that they will be finished.” Government officials have repeatedly stressed they will finish what they have started but none of the 29 projects that were unfinished in June have been completed since. Five of the 29 unfinished projects have not been touched and several others have seen almost no work. The Court’s report, however, was largely positive. “It is worth stressing that an expressive portion of the projects were at an advanced stage at the time of the sporting tournament, which means their completion is inevitable,” it said. “There is absolutely no doubt that their conclusion will serve as an important legacy from the Cup.” Brazil is also hosting the next Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. The city has said preparations are on schedule, although there are concerns over the sailing and golf venues.
Three-year-old, one-armed golfer enjoys surprise meeting with Tiger Woods Tommy Morissey is 3 years old and is a pretty good golfer. What makes the New Jersey-born boy different is that h e was born without a right arm under the elbow, meaning he swings the golf club with a righty stance using just his left arm. And he hits it 70 yards off the tee with a driver. Since his story came to light back in August,
Morissey’s been all over the place, sharing his story and feeling the warm embrace of a golf community that has marveled in his resolve and talent. This week, Morissey was a guest at the Hero Wo r l d C h a l l e n g e i n Orlando, and he was treated to a surprise: a little time with tournament host Tiger Woods. Fox Sports filmed the interaction between the
two, which included some time on the driving range and putting green. You get a sense of the kind of father Wo o d s i s t o h i s t w o children, which is a different look than we know of him. But the important thing to focus on i s To m m y a n d h i s enjoyment of not only the time with Woods, but also h i s z e s t f o r l i f e . I t ’s refreshing and uplifting.
Friday December 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Guyana storms back to beat Mexico for seventh NACRA Sevens title Six-time NACRA Sevens champions Guyana stormed back from a 21-7 first half deficit to dethrone defending title holders and host Mexico 33-28 to capture their seventh trophy in the shorter format yesterday in Mexico. It was a gut wrenching loss for the Mexicans, but a victory for the Guyanese that rightfully underscored their prowess in the Sevens format in the Region. The win by the Guyanese also add to their 15’s format championship title which they won earlier this year and gives them the opportunity to return to playing on the international stage such as the Hong Kong Sevens. According to reports, former track star Patrick King, known for his blinding speed, played a key role in the Guyanese victory. King, a member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) team as a winger and who was appearing in his first ever NACRA Championship burst over the tryline four times to crown an incredible performance, while fellow teammate from the Army Avery Corbin added the other. Captain Ryan Gonsalves missed a conversion, but scored two, while Ronald Mayers and Theodore Henry also made conversions. It was sweet revenge for Guyana who lost to Mexico by one point in the 2012 final and did not attend last year’s championship. King picked for his speed and deemed the surprise package showed his importance and the selectors’ wisdom as he rose to the challenge and obliterated the Mexicans defence with his velocity. The Mexicans had romped to a sizeable lead very early in the game, before King
Patrick King
went over the backline for a try which was converted by Henry as Guyana trailed 7-21 at the break. Upon the resumption of the second half, King collected a pass from Ronald Mayers and burst down the Mexicans left wing, leaving defenders in his wake. Gonsalves made good of the conversation, but then a breakdown in communication on defence saw the home side scoring and pushing the scores to 28-14. Corbin then bulldozed his way down the middle and scored, Gonsalves made good on the conversion as the former champs stayed in contention, trailing 21-28. King then put on the after burners to end over the backline, but Gonsalves
missed the conversion as Guyana was kept behind 2628. With the clock running down, Richard Staglon came up big in defence after the Mexicans were able to slip through Mayers and Corbin at the back. Staglon’s defensive heroics paid off, thanks to King’s sublime speed and agility along with his ability to evade the tough Mexican defenders; pushing Guyana to their first lead of the game (28–31). Gonsalves kick sealed the game at 33–28 in favour of the South Americans who had missed the same tournament last year due to lack of financing. The Guyanese who played unbeaten throughout the tournament is expected to return home today at 14:00hrs.
Netherlands to host 2017 women’s European Championships The Netherlands will host the Women’s European Championships in 2017. Seven countries, including Scotland, expressed an interest in hosting Euro 2017, but the competition will be held in the Netherlands for the first time. The final tournament will be extended to include 16 countries, with a record 47 nations involved in the qualifiers. Qualifying begins in September 2015 after next year’s World Cup in Canada, with the final tournament scheduled for July and August 2017. (BBCsport)
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Trinidad falls to Ecuador in WWC playoff Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago - Ecuador secured the 24th and final berth for the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, striking late to defeat hosts Trinidad & Tobago 1-0 on Tuesday in an intercontinental playoff at Hasely Crawford Stadium. From 10-yards out, Monica Quinteros headed home a leftsided free kick for the two-legged series’ only goal one minute into second-half stoppage time. Trinidad, the Caribbean champions and fourth-place finisher at the 2014 CONCACAF Women’s Championship, had multiple opportunities to take the initial lead. The best chance was generated by Kennya Cordner, whose bicycle kick hit the crossbar in the 60th minute. Four teams will now represent CONCACAF tomorrow’s Women’s World Cup draw in Ottawa: Canada (hosts), United States (CONCACAF champions), Costa Rica (runners-up) and Mexico (third place). (CONCACAF)
Action from the intercontinental playoff for a place in the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup between Ecuador and hosts Trinidad & Tobago (red jersey) Tuesday, at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain. (Photo: Allan V. Crane)
Trinidad int’l Jones inks Chicago deal Chicago - Trinidad & Tobago international defender-midfielder Joevin Jones signed with the Chicago Fire, the Major League Soccer club anno u n c e d We d n e s d a y. Jones, who will add speed and youth to the Fire, most recently played with HJK Helsinki (Finland) while on loan from W Connection FC. “ We ’ r e p l e a s e d t h a t Joevin will be joining the Fire,” Fire head coach Frank Yallop said. “He’s a versatile player and is a great addition as we build a squad that will compete in 2015.” Yallop is trying to revamp the Fire, which has failed to reach the MLS playoffs for two consecutive years. The 23-year-old Jones has made 37 appearances with the Soca Warriors since making his international debut against Panama on September 7, 2010. He has participated in the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the 2010, 2012 and 2014 Caribbean Cups. T&T fell to Jamaica on penalty kicks in last month’s Caribbean Cup final and qualified qualified for next year’s Gold Cup. Jones made six appearances for HJK
Helsinki. The Carenage, Trinidad, native spent two seasons with W C o n n e c t i o n ’s youth programs, before making his senior debut in 2009. In 2011, Jones tallied twice in 10 appearances, leading the Savonetta Boys to their fourth TT Pro League championship. A year later, he and the W Connection finished second
in the 2012 Caribbean Football Union Club Championship. That placement qualified the clu b f o r t h e 2 0 1 2 / 1 3 CONCACAF Champions League, in which the 5-8, 160-lb. Jones made three appearances. In 2013, Jones helped W Connection to its fifth Pro League crown as he finished second in league goal-scoring (14). (CONCACAF)
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 05, 2014
WICB Four-Day Franchise Cricket
Jaguars seeking to rebound against Red Force in P.O.S By Sean Devers in Trinidad in association with Noble House Seafoods, Payless Variety Store, Star Party Rentals and Cascadia Hotel. Today at the Queens Park Oval in Port-of-Spain, both the Guyana Jaguars and hosts Trinidad & Tobago’s Red Force will hope to rebound after suffering defeats in their last round games in the WICB Four-Day First-Class Cricket Franchise as they face-off in the fourth and final round of matches for the year in a game that could be affected by rain. Leaders Guyana Jaguars on 39 points suffered an embarrassing two-run defeat chasing 69 to win at Providence after Barbados had recovered from following-on, due to a brainless batting display by the home team. The Red Force, fourth on the points table on 23 points following their 37-run loss to Jamaica on home turf in their last match, will also want to improve their position in their last game before the tournament breaks for the Christmas Holidays. Guyana Captain Vishaul Singh feels complacency caused Guyana’s defeat in the last match but said his team is confident of rebound here since they are playing good cricket and led Barbados throughout the game at Providence expect the final session which proved to be the most important. The Jaguars, with six titles but none since 1998, beat Leewards and Windwards before losing to defending champions Barbados while Red Force drew with
Barbados in Trinidad, beat Leewards in St Kitts before Jamaica beat them at the Queens Park Oval Only Devon Smith, who replaced injured Chris Gayle in the West Indies team for their Test series against South Africa, has more runs this year than Guyana’s Narsingh Deonarine’s 285. However, the left-hander from Albion in Berbice had scores of 2 and duck in the debacle against Barbados after scoring hundreds in the first two matches. Today he will spearhead a fragile Jaguars batting lineup badly missing the services of trio Shiv Chanderpaul, Leon Johnson and Assad Fudadin, who are all in South Africa with the West Indies team. Wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble has batted with confidence and along with the elegant Rajindra Chandrika has 100 runs this season while a lot will be expected of teenager Shemron Hetmyer, who looked good against Barbados when he made 47. Trevon Griffith, Skipper Singh and the two allrounders Chris Barnwell and Barbadian left-hander Raymond Reifer are all capable of runs at this level, but they need to start contributing runs soon. Reifer has looked ordinary and could be replaced by the genuinely quick Keon Joseph to share the new ball with West Indies ‘A’ team pacer lively Ronsford Beaton against a team, who like Guyana, are not as comfortable against pace as they are against spin. Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul is the tournament’s leading wickettaker with 28 scalps and will bank on support from legspinner Devendra Bishoo (15 wickets) and off-spinner Deonarine to do the bulk of the bowling. Imran Khan bagged 6-52 and top scored with 26 in the Red Force’s defeat to Jamaica while Evin Lewis 25 was the top scorer T&T’s 131 all out. After Skipper Rayad Emrit had 2-39, Daniel St Clair 3-38, Akeal Hosein 2-18 in Jamaica’s 196 all out. Red Force, in their second innings made 201 with Nicolas Pooran scoring 55, Hosein 35*, Emrit 30, Lendl Simmons 27 as Nikita Miller (7-63) bowled Jamaica to victory. The Trinis are without the services of Denish Ramdin and Shannon Gabriel who are in South Africa with West Indies, the Bravo siblings, Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine
and Ravi Rampaul (for various reasons). The Red Force are also without former West Indies Captain Guyanese Ramnaresh Sarwan, who was bought by the T&T Franchise before personal reasons forced him to pull out of the Four-Day tournament to return to Guyana. Lendl Simmons, Yannick Ottley and Jason Mohammed the only batsmen in the Red Force team with 100 runs while and Imran Khan, who is also their leading wicket-taker, is next in line among the run scorers and a lot will depend on how they bat today. Nicolas Pooran played the last game as a batsman with Stephen Katwaroo doing the wicket-keeping duties. Jeremy Solozano, who plays spin well could also get a look in today against the spin based Jaguars attack while Evin Lewis and Skipper Rayad Emrit are also capable with the bat. Leg-spinner Khan should spearhead the attack while pacers Emrit and Guyanese born Marlon Richards have both picked up crucial wickets for T&T, who hunt their sixth title and first since 2006. Yannick Cariah, the legspinning all-rounder, has replaced off-spinner Kerwyn Sirju in the only change from the last game. Cariah, who missed the last match, leads the TT batting averages with 81.0 and along with left-arm pacer Daniel St. Clair, who took three wickets on his debut against Jamaica, could
also play important roles for the Red Force. The last time these two
teams met in a drawn game at Providence earlier this year Bishoo got a Guyana record
9-78 and match-figures of 15149 which is only bettered by Trinidadian leg-spinner Rajendra Dhanraj’s 16-167. Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago have faced each other in 52 matches with the Guyanese winning 11, losing 12 and drawing 29 of those matches. Guyana, then playing as Demerara, first met Trinidad in a First-Class match in 1876 when Trinidad won by an innings and 28 runs at the Parade Ground in Georgetown and will want to celebrate Christmas with their third win this year. Guyana Jaguars: Rajindra Chandrika, Narsingh Deonarine, Raymond Reifer, Anthony Bramble (wk), Christopher Barnwell, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Ronsford Beaton, Vishal Singh, Trevon Griffith, Taignarine Chanderpaul, Shemron Hetmyer, Keon Joseph, Rayon Griffith (Asst Coach/ Manager), Esuan Crandon (Head Coach). Trinidad & Tobago Red Force: Rayad Emrit (Captain), Jason Mohammed (ViceCaptain), Evin Lewis, Lendl Simmons, Yannick Ottley, Nicholas Pooran, Imran Khan, Steven Katwaroo, Akeal Hosein, Marlon Richards, Daniel St. Clair, Jeremy Solozano, Yannick Cariah, Manohar Ramsaran (Manager), Augustine Logie (Coach), Kelvin Williams (Assistant Coach), Ronald Rogers (Trainer), Oba Gulston (Physio), Dinesh Mahabir (Video Analyst).
Trophy Stall joins club of Flex Night sponsors Trophy Stall, with its main location in the Bourda market, has now joined the club of c o m m e r c i a l e s t ablishments offering sponsorship for the upcoming Flex Night International event. Retailing trophies, medals, shields and other memorabilia for a wide range of sporting and other events, Trophy Stall has come on board on the eve of the big event, and every athlete (local and foreign) will be taking home one of t h e products of this establishment. In p i c t u r e , R a m e s h Sunich, General Manager of Trophy Stall, makes good on his pledge of sponsorship. Winning trophy is being
received by Fiona Harris, Flex Night Inc. Special Projects
Assistant with David Gomes, Flex Night Inc. Director of
External Resources in attendance.
Kaieteur News
Friday December 05, 2014
Page 41
Guinness ‘Greatest of de Streets’ Futsal Competition
Sparta Boss, Leopold Street among those advancing to quarter-finals Former national striker Devon Millington and Sheldon Shepherd lashed in a goal each to guide tournament favourites Sparta Boss into the quarterfinal of the Georgetown Zone of the Guinness ‘Greatest of de Streets’ Futsal Competition which continued on Wednesday evening at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac. Playing in the final fixture of the evening against upstart South Sophia, the two teams battled ferociously for the ascendancy, but could not find the nets in the first period. Shepherd, however, gave Sparta Boss the lead in the 19th minute, before Millington added his four minutes later to add more comfort, an ease they enjoyed until the final whistle sounded. Former champion Leopold Street opened the night’s proceedings with a hard fought penalty shootout
win against Festival City Street Fighters after their encounter ended in a nil-all stalemate in regulation period. Cross Street then sent giant killers West Back Road packing after surviving in sudden death penalty shootout which became necessary following their 11 draw. In another marquee matchup, Albouystown ‘B’ through a solitary strike from Marlon Nedd erased any hope that former national champions Back Circle harboured of reaching another final, while the consistent Globe Yard made it to the next stage at the expense of Albouystown ‘A’ who they defeated 2-1 o penalty kicks after being deadlocked at nil-all in regulation time. The quarter-finals are set for this Sunday at Demerara Park, Ruimveldt. The night’s full results are seen below along with quarter-final fixtures.
Two players fight for possession of the ball during one of the games in Round of 16 action on Wednesday night at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac. Game-1: Leopold Street-0 vs Festival City
International Indoor Hockey Festival
GHB releases names of teams and fixtures The Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) has released the fixtures for the Annual Diamond Mineral Water International Indoor Hockey Festival which is being played from December 4-7 at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue. According to a release from the GHB, the
duration of the matches in the Men’s and Ladies categories will last for forty (40) minutes, while the Veterans Division will be for a duration of thirty (30) minutes. Below are the competing teams in the respective categories along with the tournament fixtures.
Street Fighters-0. Leopold won 3-2 on sudden death kicks. Game-2: Cross Street-1 vs West Back Road-1. Cross Street won 1-0 on sudden death kicks. Cross Street scorer Ronaldo Dover-34th. West Back Road scorer Akeem Fitzpatrick-30th. Game-3: North Ruimveldt-1 vs Hope Street Tiger Bay-0. Rickford Jones-4th. Game-4: West Front Road-1 vs Island All-Stars0. Colin Nelson-23rd. Game-5: Globe Yard-0 vs Albouystown-A-0. Globe Yard won 2-1 on penalty kicks.
Game-6: AlbouystownB-1 vs Back Circle-0. Marlon Nedd-32nd. Game-7: Festival City Warriors-2 vs Alexander Village-0. Eon Alleyne-1st. Dwayne Lawrence-15th. Game-8: Sparta Boss-2 vs South Sophia-0. Sheldon Shepherd-19th, Devon Millington-23rd. 07/12/2014 Quarterfinals Day 8 Demerara Park 19:00 hrs Exhibition Matches VS Exhibition Matches 19:30 hrs Exhibition Matches VS Exhibition Matches
20:00 hrs Exhibition Matches VS Exhibition Matches 20:30 hrs Exhibition Matches VS Exhibition Matches Break Break Break Break 21:00 hrs Leopold Street VS West Front Road 21:30 hrs Cross Street VS Festival City Warriors 22:00 hrs North Riumveldt VS Globe Yard 22:30 hrs Sparta Boss VS Albouystown B
T20 action set for Lusignan on Sunday In an effort to rekindle the interest of sports in the community, the Lusignan Sports Club (LSC) will be hosting a T20 cricket competition on Sunday from 09:00hrs involving Mon Repos, Goed Hope, Annandale and the home team. Among the players expected to be on show are Emran Khan, Krishna Deosarran, Brian Sattaur, Somdat Bharrat, Rajindra Naikbaran, Kumar
Bishundial, Vishnu Ramjeet and Steven Ramdass. According to the club’s Public Relations Officer (PRO) Vishnu Ramjeet, the competition is aimed at further developing cricket in the community and keeping the youths away from crime and alcohol. He informed that the proceeds will be used to fund the club’s participation in the various competitions run by the East Coast, Demerara and the
Guyana Cricket Boards. Ramjeet stated that he expects the event to be an exciting one while there will be lots of games and other attractions for children and a well stock bar. Admission to the venue is free. Meanwhile, the PRO said that the Lusignan Cricket Club is in no way connected to the LSC and as such they are not authorised to transact any business on their behalf.
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Kaieteur News
Friday December 04, 2014
Albouystown Masjid-an-Najm receives Kayo’s Academy/Rickland Hutson U-13 sports gear from Good Samaritan and U-15 football fiesta starts at MSC Judo practitioners honing their skills at the Masjid-an-Najm in Albouystown will now be more equipped to address their tasks following a timely donation of a quantity of Ghees (judo uniforms) to their organization by a Good Samaritan who wished that his name be withheld. The simple handing over ceremony was conducted at the Masjid-anNajm, Independence Boulevard, Albouystown, yesterday afternoon and Abdul Rahim Forde performed the honours of handing over the items to his colleague, Director Imam Naeem Muhammad, on behalf of the donor. The latter individual was indeed grateful for the gift and conveyed his sentiments to his benefactor. He explained t h a t h i s o rg a n i z a t i o n emphasizes heavily on youth development. The
Several club teams from around the country will converge at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground tomorrow for the staging of the 4th edition of the Kayo’s Academy and Rickland ‘Tallo’ Hutson’s Youth Challenge Under-13 and Under 15 Inter Club championships from 10:00hrs. The competitions are the brainchild of United States based former national football players Kayode McKinnon and Rickland
Abdul Rahim Forde hands over the items to Imam Naeem Muhammed at the Albouystown Mosque Imam further noted that while academics are important to youth development, sports should also form a part of that development; he feels that it is an integral part of the process. As such, Imam Naeem Muhammad said that his organization engages in several disciplines including
tennis and football among other disciplines. He also said that President of the Guyana Judo Association, R a o u l A r c h e r, a l s o a Muslim, conducts judo sessions and the gears would compliment such efforts. “We are intent on all round development of our youths,” he emphasized.
‘Tallo’ Hutson. This year’s tournament will see participation from clubs d r a w n f r o m t h e We s t Demerara, Georgetown and Upper Demerara associations. Registration commences at 09:00hrs with the March Past at 09:30hrs, whilst on field competition will begin at 10:00hrs. The aim of the tournament is to expose the talent of players giving them the opportunity of playing with the best around the country as was afforded McKinnon and
Hutson who broke through the ranks as youth nationals and made it to the senior level representing Guyana with distinction. Among those associated as donors and sponsors for this year ’s competition are Monette McKinnon, Ryan Clarke, Collin ‘BL’ Aaron, Fizal Khan, Aaron Fraser, Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major, Bella’s Lumber Yard, Vonnette Jarvis, Juanita Phillips, Marilyn Waterton and Banks DIH.
Bannas Foundation 5-a-side football set for Sunday Bannas Foundation will be hosting a fivea-side and penalty shootout football competition on Sunday at Vryheid’s Lust playfield starting at 09:00hrs. Several teams from Georgetown and East Coast are expected to take part while trophies for the first and second place finishers are‘ being donated by the hosts and Zaman Ali. Meanwhile, the Queen’s College Allied Arts Department Sports Committee’s 12-team
football tournament will be played tomorrow at the GFC ground commencing from 09:00hrs. Among the teams to participate are the hosts, North Georgetown, Bishop’s High, St. Rose’s, Queenstown Secondary, Chase Academy and Christ Church. Trophies and medals sponsored by Tent City and Bannas Foundation will be given to the winning and runner up teams, the most valuable player and the best goalkeeper.
Kaieteur News
Friday December 04, 2014
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GFF Normalization Committee discusses important issues with Minister Anthony
The FIFA high level delegation seen here with Minister Anthony and officials of the Normalization Committee. The tasks meted out to the Normalization Committee to regularize football operations are indeed arduous but the group is pressing ahead to reach the stipulated deadline
late next year. When the names of the members of the team were released, CONCACAF Director of Legal Affairs Marco Leal and FIFA’s Head of Associations,
The list of attendees for this year’s edition of Flex Night International for the National Cultural Centre on Sunday night continues to look impressive. of the audience is Suriname’s first professional bodybuilder, Eddy Wilson who also trains
two of the three Surinamese Miss Bikini athletes who will be competing against local beauties on Sunday. Kaieteur Sport understands that Mr. Wilson will appear on stage Sunday night to be briefly interviewed.
Suriname’s first Pro bodybuilder to attend Flex Night
Premo Cavaro, had assured that officials of the ruling football body would be guiding the process to an amicable end. True to its word, two representatives FIFA, Development Officer, Howard McIntosh and Anton Corneal, arrived in Guyana recently and together with several members of the Normalization Committee, paid a courtesy call on Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Frank Anthony, at his office, Main Street
G e o rg e t o w n , M o n d a y, December 1. The members of the NC in attendance were Tariq Williams, Dr Karen Pilgrim, Clinton Urling and Stuart May. The other member, Rabindranauth Chandrapal, was conspicuously absent. Kaieteur Sport was informed of this development through an email which stated that discussions centered on areas of collaboration between the groups and support for Grassroots Development programmes.
The gentlemen also committed to work together towards training programmes and the realization of the Goal Project. The release stated that a team out of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport will collaborate with their counterparts from the Normalization Committee and work together towards the completion of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that would pave the way for the
implementation of the Goal Project. The NC was appointed by FIFA to conduct local football affairs following failed efforts by the Christopher Matthias administration to hold Electoral Congresses on two occasions. The Committee had intimated plans to engage all stakeholders, including the affiliated associations to help improve Guyana’s football. The above forum is a progression of several others aimed at the regularization of the sport.
t r o Sp
Guyana storms back to beat Mexico for seventh NACRA Sevens title P.39
The victorious Guyanese shopw off the winning trophy and medals in Mexico after defeating the host nation
Jaguars seeking to rebound against Red Force in P.O.S P.40
Trevon Griffith
Anthony Bramble
Skipper Vishaul Singh and Trevon Griffith ‘chat’ during yesterday’s Jaguars practice session at the QPO. Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210