Kaieteur News
PAGE 04
Friday February 10, 2017
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 PARKING METERS ARE A BLIGHT Two weeks after the formal operation of parking meters on some streets in Georgetown, hundreds of citizens, including parliamentarians, business owners and members of civic society, gathered in front of City Hall for the second time to protest against the parking meter initiative. However, on the first occasion, the peaceful protest descended into chaos as several alleged City Council supporters staged a counter protest and hurled insults at the anti-parking meter protestors. The protest ended with the singing of the National Anthem, but many, including the AFC have called on the government to rescind the contract, given the disruption to businesses. Some have supported the installation of the meters, but felt that the City’s approach to the issue was dictatorial. The protest was organised by a social group known as “Movement against Parking Meters” whom the Mayor and Town Clerk characterized as backward thinkers. It seems that there is no end to the parking meter controversy. Many, including some Councilors, have questioned the lack of transparency and consultation prior to the installation of the meters. The system which is a joint venture between SCS and the Mayor and City Council has had an avalanche of criticisms. It has divided the residents of the city. And yet the government has stayed out of the fray. Its claim that City Hall has autonomy to make its own by-laws is deceitful. If this is the case, then the citizens should demand that the Ministry of Communities be abolished for being incompetent. The arrogance and ineptness by some city officials have escalated to the point where the President was forced to intervene and he ordered a reduction of the price.It is pathetic to know that City Hall is allowed to act as a state within a state. The parking meters’ project is an appalling idea. It seems that City officials did not listen to the people, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) and several other groups. The PSC has urged the government to intervene in the impasse between the citizens and the City and rescind what it labelled the “illegal” parking meter contract, but the government has responded negatively. Had the Mayor and Town Clerk listened to the people or engaged stakeholders on the issue through public meetings, they would have negotiated a much better contract instead of the 20 percent in revenue given to them by SCS. Passionate pleas from several businesses which have seen their sales plummet by as much as 50 percent since the installation of the parking meters have fallen on deaf ears. Businesses in close proximity to the parking meters have claimed that their customers have rejected them and are staying away from the stores. Further, the refusal by the city administration to engage the business community in an attempt to mitigate the ill effects of the parking meter project could have serious consequences. City Hall and the central government have been forewarned of the negative effects of the parking meters on the retail sector. It should be told that in an integrated economy such as that of Guyana, the success or failure of one sector has spinoff effects in other areas and upon the country as a whole. The government is aware that the failure of the retail sector could result in hundreds of lays offs of store employees. Some businesses have already begun reducing the hours of their workers. The satire of it all is that City Officials are tearing apart the political base of APNU/PNC and the government has done very little to prevent it. If it is true that the Municipality would collect at the very least $240 million for 2017 based on its share of 20 percent of revenue collected, it means that Smart City Solutions will receive $960 million based on its share of 80 percent. It does not make sense. It’s voodoo economics. It’s a bizarre contract that benefits a foreign company four times more than the residents of Georgetown and the country as a whole. The parking meter is a blight on the City.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
Has something gone wrong with GTT? Dear Editor, GTT is our national provider of internet and landline phone services. These facilities are no longer novel luxuries but have become with current living, essential tools and services that we depend on for business, homework, r e s e a r c h a n d correspondences. It’s more than two weeks since my landline [227-5503] went dead. I was told that within
ten days the technicians will address the matter. I no longer call the toll free number, because I hear the same irritating recitation that says nothing. My internet service has gone. The experts at home have tried troubleshooting, replacing cable and praying. The gods at GTT aren’t listening, I am talking to other citizens who are as confused as I was; they have carried their modems for
testing, asked electricians to check their wiring and changed cable connections, to no avail. The Internet support people don’t work on weekends, remarkable! So much for customer service! Something has gone wrong with this company for the past 4-5 years. Rumour has it a certain big gun in the company needs to be investigated. Why aren’t they litigating against this person? Is it that this person
has sensitive information? I just paid $5,000.00 for a replacement phone; remember those used to be free? At the end of the day informing the nation is the best alternative. I like GTT they’ve been supportive of local creativity when other ‘Big’ companies have turned their backs on us, I want this company to endure but bad service is bad service, so what’s going on at GTT? Barrington Braithwaite
The APNU+AFC Government has been disappointing Dear Editor, I am one of those who subscribe to the laws of dialectical and historical materialism. According to this theory, nothing is immutable. This is true of living and non-living objects as it is to society. As one ancient Greek philosopher succinctly puts it, one cannot bathe in the same river twice. It is as a result of the above theoretical construct that I remain convinced that there has to be a better and more enlightened society than the one in which we currently live which is characterized by high levels of poverty for the many and an opulent life for the few. Something must be fundamentally wrong with a society in which there is widespread poverty in the
midst of plenty. Just as how slavery gave way to feudalism which in turn gave way to capitalism, a time will come in the distant future when a more humane and just society will evolve where the fruits of human labour will serve to provide for the good of humanity as a whole rather than a privileged few. Call me utopian if you like, but I do believe that a more equitable and socially just society is a historical imperative whose time will come. Indeed, it is this vision of a better society in which there is no exploitation of man by man and where every individual contribute to the overall good of all that has been the driving force behind a countless number of liberation struggles worldwide including that of
Guyana which was led by the PPP during the colonial and pre-independence period. The PPP under the then leadership of Dr. Cheddi Jagan led the struggle for a free, democratic and independent Guyana. It has, when in government, sought to create a socially just society based on a policy of 'development with a human face' in which ordinary people were able to access social goods and services in a way not hitherto possible. Few can deny that under the PPP government more Guyanese were able to own their own homes and other consumer durables. The per capita vehicle ownership has increased by geometric proportions that the City Council has now put in place parking meters in the
City which sadly is badly misconceived and will only serve to diminish the level of prosperity which the Guyanese people now enjoy. That however is another matter. What Guyana needs at this conjuncture in time is a government that is lean and clean and where there is room for each and every Guyanese to benefit from the good life within the limit of our resource capability. The performance of the current APNU-AFC administration has been disappointing so far and all indications point in the direction of a gradual erosion of the economic and social gains made by the previous PPP/C administration. Hydar Ally Member, PPP Central Committee
14% VAT on private education fees is a wrong policy Dear Editor, I am neither a politician nor am I an Economist. I am simply an Educator. Having lived in Guyana for the past 38 years, my wife and I started School of Nations more than twenty years ago. We began School of Nations for very simple reasons; our two sons attended one of the leading Secondary schools in Georgetown. Each evening, when we sat down to eat and asked about their day at school, they said they had two or three classes with no teacher. We visited the school, met the Head Mistress and were casually informed, “don’t worry … we may get a Maths teacher next year.” That was motivation enough to try and offer an alternative. I was then fortunate to undertake a UNICEF consultancy in Ghana in April 1997 and travelled to
neighbouring Togoland one weekend to visit some Baha’i friends. They took me to a school they had started in the heart of the capital. The school was like an oasis of peace in troubled and very divided city. That was April 1997; four months later School of Nations opened its doors in Georgetown. From that modest beginning, twenty years later, Nations has two campuses, one in the heart of Georgetown, the other, a purely pro-bono school, in New Amsterdam. There are now more than 2,300 students from preschool to 6th Form and others pursuing International Diplomas, Degrees and MBA from centres of excellence like University of Cambridge, University of London, ABE and the Australian Institute of Business. Some of those students
arrive at Nations in the latest RAV 4s or BMWs. But others arrive on foot. Some represent some of the most affluent sectors of the Guyanese society. Less is perhaps known about the 40+ children at Nations on full or partial scholarships, or the 100 children from neighbouring Tiger Bay who, for the past five years, have come to Nations two or three afternoons per week for free classes in literacy, numeracy, the arts and music, probably even less people are aware that for 12 years Nations has operated a branch in New Amsterdam that is operated on a largely pro bono basis. It is of course because of the success of Nations in Georgetown that we are able to offer these services to the wider community. These are not acts of patronising charity, each of these
innovations have fundamentally enriched the wider Nations family. One of the most popular programmes that we offer is a series of courses from the Association of Business Executives (ABE) from UK. They offer courses in business, management, travel and tourism and computer technology at 232 centres in more than 80 countries worldwide. Nations is now the #1 centre in the Caribbean and the #5 centre in the world in terms of the number of students enrolled with ABE. Plans are now in train to offer these courses in Berbice and in Linden. The very same ABE courses are offered in Trinidad at twice the cost. M o r e o v e r, t h e M B A programme that Nations offers from AIB in Australia is also taught at four centres (Continued on page 5)
Friday February 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
PAGE 5
Govt. needs to heighten its engagement with the private sector
Former President, Ramotar responds to the Attorney-General
DEAR EDITOR; Last Wednesday I participated in the AACCLA's Outlook on the Americas Conference at the Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, Florida which brought together government ministers, private sector and non-government organization representatives to discuss trade, investment, commercial and other development issues in the Americas. Among the keynote speakers was Admiral Kurt Tidd, Commander, US Southern Command. I raised the issue of Venezuela's claim to Guyana's territory and maritime space and President Maduro's sometimes provocative military maneuvers towards Guyana especially against the backdrop of the recent discovery of significant oil reserves within Guyana's geographic space. I questioned whether such maneuvers on the part of Venezuela might not constitute a threat to the peace and stability of the region. Further, I alluded to the fact that not only the Maduro Administration but other groups in and out of Venezuela, including its Opposition Party, maintain that the claim is valid and have said that they count any oil reserves in Guyana’s geographic space as Venezuela’s. Admiral Tidd responded that Venezuela's actions, in his view, are intended more to divert its population away from the myriad of domestic issues confronting the coun-
try than to threaten Guyana. However, he said that Guyana has solid partners in the hemisphere on its side and could pursue the development of its oil industry with confidence. This is an encouraging response as I am sure that Guyana could count the United States among those solid partners to which the Admiral referred. On another note, it was the consensus of the conference that the private sector has a critical role to play in the future development of the Latin America and Caribbean region, and governments have begun to ensure that an enabling environment, including appropriate incentives are in place to facilitate an expanded role for the private sector. Governments which fail to so do would be risking their own peril. One example of the extent to which governments in the region are going to support their private sectors is that of Honduras, according to its Minister of Economic Development, Arnaldo Castillo who explained that his government pays a portion of certain private sector workers’ salaries for up to a period of six months. While I don’t expect this type of incentive to be offered to the private sector in Guyana, I am of the view that the Government of Guyana needs to heighten its engagement with the private sector as a collective not only through the Private Sector Commission, but with partici-
pation of all the regional Chambers, other private sector organizations including those in the Diaspora with a view to hammering out a clear development strategy for the country over the short, medium and long term. This strategy should include agreement on, among other things, acceptable levels of taxation including VAT, investment incentives for both local and foreign investors, foreign currency management and identification of the relevant education and training for the current and future workforce. Such a strategy is critical if meaningful private sector led development is to take place in Guyana. From my gleaning of what is happening in many other countries in the region, the train has left the station and Guyana, notwithstanding its significant oil and gas reserves, must run, catch the train and get onboard. President David Granger has been speaking of the need for more Guyanese to become involved in entrepreneurship. He is right. But the production of plantain chips etc. on a sustainably profitable basis needs to be part of a plan that includes export markets. Here is where a well-coordinated and communicated private/ public sector development strategy is critical. Finally, the conference also discussed US relations with Latin America and the Caribbean. It was generally (Continued on page 5)
14% VAT on private education fees... From page 4 in Trinidad at more than twice the cost. Nations continues to strive to offer these courses at the most economical rates to suit the capacity of the Guyanese pocket. And then we are contacted by GRA a couple of days ago, to say that, with immediate effect, all these fees need to be increased by 14%. For those who come to Nations daily in luxury cars this new additional tax is an annoyance. But to the 16-yearold school leavers who are part of the 800+ ABE cohort, some of whom pay the fees in
G$100 bills, this new imposition may simply mean they stop the course, stay home and loose hope and add to the growing numbers of the unemployed and unemployable. We then read daily of the huge oil finds in Guyana and then we hear that the reward for the people of this country is an additional 14% tax. The only hope for Guyana moving forward is an educated, motivated pool of youth who see Guyana as theirs. This new tax does nothing to further that vision, that sense of optimism, the idea that they
can rise out of poverty. I said at the beginning I am neither a politician nor an economist. But this letter is addressed to the politicians, economists, and strategists who made the decision to impose this levy and to simply ask them to seek some other means to raise revenue. A tax on education is surely not the path to take in 2017. Dr Brian O’Toole Director, School of Nations
DEAR EDITOR; I have noticed the response of the Attorney General, Mr. Basil Williams in the Chronicle newspaper, to the piece I wrote in relation to issues in the Ministry which he heads. I wish to thank him publicly for acknowledging that so many persons have left the Ministry since the change of government and in particular, his Ministry. It has been a virtual exodus. It is indeed more than passing strange that in the present economic environment where there is no job creation, no programme for such either, that so many people have left their employ. Incidentally, as I noted in my writings, the vast majority were persons employed by the PPP Govt. They were replaced by persons of the
choice of the new government. I note also Mr. Cecil Dhurjon’s response as well. I know Mr. Dhurjon still has substantial benefits for his long service to the Ministry and the country. It is apposite to recall that Mr. Dhurjon’s wife is still in the employ of that Ministry. I have no desire to jeopardise either the jobs or the receipt of benefits for anyone. Further, I say not. The vindictiveness that this regime has displayed is intimidating to many. In relation to the Attorney General, I have seen his explanations for the exodus of so many in his employ. I do not wish to respond to them. I will merely recite his recent known actions. You, the readers, will decide on how credible and what
weight you wish to put to his most recent explanation. This is the same man who denied that he ever sought to compulsorily acquire two private lots in Carmichael Street when this was publicly advertised in the Official Gazette. This is the same man who, together with his colleagues in the APNU+AFC, voted against the AML/CFT Bill brought by the PPP/C administration. That placed our country in grave danger of being blacklisted. Yet Basil Williams shamelessly and barefacedly blames the PPP/ C. This is the same person who blamed the PPP/C for the more than one billion dollar judgment that the Courts awarded to the Rudisa Company. The whole country (Continued on page 6)
The Local Government System has failed the people DEAR EDITOR, It’s almost a year since some citizens decided to go to the polls for the much anticipated LGE. There was obvious hope amongst the citizens and candidates alike but after one year of failed initiatives (the Kitty Market for example) and increased taxes, the city is crying for help. The citizens are plagued by yet another imposition, the parking meter fiasco. The city council led by their ‘king’ decided that they needed to get rid of the ‘lawlessness and congestion’ in the city by imposing a whopping $32,000 extra fee per month on the normal working class citizen. Somebody somewhere must have done the maths, somebody somewhere must have told these custodians that such an imposition would only cause more hardship and pain. Moreover, it’s almost one year since we sought to bring about fresh ideas, fresh faces and fresh management to the city and lost in our plight. The problem is not that we failed to mobilise and convince the citizens but the disappoint-
ment they have had to face because of their choices. There is a new breeze that is blowing in Guyana that somehow, the only way to achieve economic growth is to tax citizens to death; the notion of innovative investments, public private partnerships to create employment and finances, all seem dead in the minds of these decision makers. The elaborate increases of fees and taxes without any phased implementation plan are also disquieting. This seems to be the trend of politics and decision makers for Guyana today; the local government system is no different. It’s almost been a year since we went up against the goliaths. In the end, the Goliaths won, but instead of the glory promised, the citizen can barely breathe, garbage collectors are still threatening strikes, children still can’t have proper parks to play in whilst the underprivileged continues to suffer. There is a huge disconnect between the leaders and the people. There is no trust, no coordi-
nation and no cooperation. The councillors of the constituencies have vanished into thin air barring one or two. Security, flooding, unemployment, infrastructure (to name a few) are worse off than they were one year ago. There have been no serious steps taken to revise zoning laws, fix roads and drainage in most communities (I can go on all day). South Georgetown continues to be plagued by crime, poverty and disaster and yet, decision makers seem obsessed with taxation parking meters. There must be another way, there has to be. If this trend continues, the entire social fabric of many communities may collapse; the question is, whether the kings and queens are concerned. The disposal income of the common man has already been depleted due to taxation, paying $32, 000 extra per month will only make it worst. Kelvin Bovell Team Legacy
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Many sections of the police force have performed admirably DEAR EDITOR; The performance of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is under constant scrutiny. The vexed question is how does one conduct a performance appraisal on a police force that is short of over one thousand ranks ? and that is in accordance with the 1976 authorised strength ? a police force that needs many more boots of various sizes and quality on the ground, since boots on the ground are the first step to preventing crime; a law enforcement agency which encounters witnesses who are reluctant to attend identification parades and are fearful of testifying in court. Despite many challenges and many more, some sections of the Force, particularly the Major Crimes Unit, have sparkled. That unit has brought numerous hard core criminals to justice including many who were involved in cold cases spanning several years. It has dismantled numerous armed gangs, but more are emerging. In addition, Assistant Commissioner Ian
Amsterdam, Senior Superintendent Stephen Mansell and Assistant Commissioner Clifton Hicken have done some great work in their community-oriented policing and problem solving (COPPS) approach towards the reduction of crime. Their efforts have been very fruitful. Not surprisingly, since Stephen Mansell proceeded on extended vacation leave during September, 2016 and is still on leave, very little or nothing has been heard of community intervention in the division he commanded. If there are police/communities activities they are not made public. There is a thick wall of silence. Serious crime is on the increase in that division. In measuring the efficiency and effectiveness of a department like the Guyana Police Force, many people including the police tend to use crime rates, number of arrests, cases made including traffic matters and clear-up rates to measure how the police are doing. Karen Hess and Christine Orthmann (2012) opine that clearance rates are noto-
riously unreliable and arrest data are suspect. They explain that ghosting may occur ? the falsifying of patrol logs to make the numbers come out right. I read in the media that persons are questioning the accuracy of crime stats produced by the police. There has been a state of denial. One senior official angrily mentioned that the police do not manufacture stats and that the input is done electronically. Whether or not the stats are done electronically or manually, the possibility of ghosting exists. In my policing career I heard senior officers directing ranks to “cook the stats so that we can look good.” I do not know what is presently operating in the GPF, but the possibility of ghosting cannot be overlooked. It was done before in a large division while Henry Greene was the commissioner of police. History can repeat itself, if it has not already done so. Wayne Bennett and Karen Hess (2004) suggest that low crime rates do not necessarily mean a police agency is efficient and effec-
Only now the voices of political power have been heard DEAR EDITOR, This must be a nation of a comedy of political errors, could anyone imagine that after so much conjecture and projections for parking meters to be rolled out on major city streets, that hardly a word was heard from those who are part and parcel of political power, only now to come out and request that the system be suspended, after millions have been lost to businesses and revenue to government. One wonders where were
these people when there was one voice crying out in the wilderness against all and sundry to stop the implementation of this project and review the entire plan, he stood alone was penalize by vindictive officials, made to ride a push bike and deprived of his office space, now only now his comrades are jumping on board and calling for the suspension of the entire arrangement. Is this for real? Is this the way things would be
handled in our nation in the future? Are these people sleeping giants who have been sedated and woke tamed and harmless? Of course there are more questions than answers, but Guyana, the citizens of Georgetown deserves better than what is given to them at the moment by way of representation. Forces are joined; the meters must go not just suspended; it is not affordable via way of cost to the parking public. Ivan John.
tive. A high arrest rate does not necessarily show that the police are doing a good job. A high ratio of police officers to citizens does not necessarily mean high-quality police service. Responding quickly to calls for service does not necessarily indicate that the police agency is efficient. Kramer and Fielder (2002) summarise the problem succinctly: “Traditional measurements, such as the uniform crime reports…arrest and tickets tabulate only events. They do not measure whether the activities were completed effectively and efficiently, and that they don’t describe what impact the activities had on the community.” They suggest that rather than looking at crime rates, number of arrests and respond times, evaluation should assess whether the agency is effective in fulfilling its responsibilities to the community. Evaluation must also consider the entire agency and how
well it is accomplishing its mission. The mission statement of the Guyana Police Force reads, “The mission of the Guyana Police Force and its auxiliaries is to serve all the citizens of Guyana in a professional, proactive and accountable manner. To achieve this, we will work in partnership with communities, public agencies and private bodies to enhance and support an environment where all people are preventing crime and building a safer and secure Guyana.” This mission statement was designed and implemented by the disbanded Police Strategic Management Unit. The framers of this mission statement were a bit careless, and their statement reckless and dangerous, but not fatal. How can we have a situation whereby “all people are preventing crime and building a safer and secure Guyana?” It is not realistic.
It is not achievable. Where will the police be if all are involved in preventing crime and building a safer Guyana? Most citizens want to live in safe, orderly neighbourhoods. The police are considered effective when they produce the perception that crime is under control. Reduction of fear is a very important measure. Citizens’ approval or disapproval is generally reflected in letters to the editor, letters of criticism or commendation, cooperation over incidents being investigated, support for proposed police programmes, public reaction to a police-citizen incident or responses to police-initiated surveys. Citizens are better served and officers receive positive feedback. Community surveys can also be key in establishing communication. Clinton Conway Assistant Commissioner of Police (Ret’d)
Govt. needs to heighten its... From page 5 felt that the United States must ensure a heightened strategic relationship with LA&C that would promote investment in, and trade with the region. Responding to a comment that President Trump had not pronounced on CAFTA/DR (Central America/ Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement) like he has on NAFTA, Nicaragua's Minister of Development, Industry and Trade, Orlando Salvador Solorzano noted that CAFTA/DR "is an agreement that has worked to the mutual benefit of the US and Central
American countries." The meeting also discussed the growing influence of China and Russia in the region and suggested that the US heighten its engagement with countries of the region including increased bilateral and multilateral assistance as well as private sector participation through investment and trade. Ministers of Government from Argentina, Peru, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic as well as private sector representatives from Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica were among the partici-
pants. As I have said in previous letters, the Caribbean needs to step up its lobby in the US and involve its Diaspora as part of that effort. Guyana can perhaps play a leading role in the CARICOM effort in this regard since the US now has a Secretary of State who knows of Guyana, knows where it is and can find it on a map. Secretary Tillerson’s maiden address to his staff at the State Department is very encouraging especially in light of some of the tweets that have come from his boss. Wesley Kirton
Former President, Ramotar ... From page 5 knows that it was Williams and all of his colleagues in the APNU+AFC that voted against the Bill being passed in the National Assembly by the PPP/C government. The failure to pass this Bill led to a humongous cost to the country. This is the same Basil Williams who placed his name on a case when he was never a party in the case involving Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Opposition
Leader and Magistrate Charlyn Artiga. He refused to take the advice of the Solicitor General and the Deputy Solicitor General not to do so. However, when the case was thrown out he blamed the Deputy Solicitor General for his folly. This is the same Basil Williams who denied that Brian Tiwari was paid US$5.7 million on a mere letter threatening litigation. All Guyanese know that it
was Minister Bulkan who disclosed that information. Yet Basil Williams continue to deny it. This is the same Attorney-General who viciously attacked the Chancellor (Ag) in the state-owned Chronicle newspaper. Later, he denied doing so and threatened journalists who reported on the issue. This is the same Basil Williams who was recorded thanking Winston Felix, then Commissioner of Police, for diverting the public attention from the criminal link (Fine Man Gang) with the PNC after the East Bank slaughter where eight persons lost their lives. Further, I say not. Donald Ramotar
Friday February 10, 2017
Second parking meter protest…
Businesses, workers demand total scrapping
Protestor calling for the removal of parking meters
Appeals being made to President David Granger to scrap the contract these things then we are asking that the contract be revoked. It is not about the fee alone, it is about transparency and accountability.” Joining with the protest movement was former Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran who said that the current system is absolutely horrendous. “Imagine if an ordinary office worker who is earning a little bit more than regular, has a motor car and his vehicle is seized. “This is just absolutely horrendous and it is not going to be accepted by people in Guyana and it is not going to be accepted by people in Georgetown and it is not going to be accepted by people anywhere. The city council needs to wake up.” Former Town Clerk Carol Sooba explained that at present there is no law to enforce paid parking. “Even if you reduce fees it cannot be implemented because there is no law. You cannot take anybody before a court of law to enforce a law that isn’t there. The fees are outrageous, but we will see what happens; bullyism continues.” Notably, there was a
Parking meter troubles…
Court refuses NBS ex-parte injunction By Brushell Blackman
...reject talks of reduced fees
Hundreds of employers and workers yesterday protested again in front of City Hall calling for a full revocation of the parking meter contract between Smart City Solutions Incorporated and the Georgetown Mayor and City Council. It was announced on Wednesday that parking fees should be reduced following a meeting between President David Granger, Mayor Patricia Chase-Green, Town Clerk, Royston King, Minister of State Joseph Harmon, Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan and Attorney-General Basil Williams. However, the MAPM and its supporters are unmoved by this development and want the contract revoked. Speaking with Kaieteur News, member of the group and businessman Marcel Gaskin said that the group is not accepting the reduction. “What we want to see is the feasibility study; we want to see the impact study; we want to see the due diligence on SCS and we want to see the evidence of the tender process that was done to select SCS as the contractor or as the supplier. “If no one can produce
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substantial increase in the number of persons who turned out to protest against the project. Unlike last week’s demonstration there was no counter-protest group. Expressing his dismay with the project very passionately was owner of RK’s Security Service, Roshan Khan. He said that Guyanese need a chance to breathe and efforts should be directed towards developing the country’s economy. According to him the government must be reminded that if Guyanese are made to go through such nonsensical masterminding, it is possible that they can be removed. Newspaper columnist and activist, Frederick Kissoon, said that he has an ideological objection to the project in the context of the nature of the economy. “Theoretically, I think parking meters are a modern phenomenon, people pay for parking but people pay for anything in the context of whether they can afford to pay for it. That is why Barbados and Germany has free university education. “If an economy can afford for people to pay for parking, (Continued on page 27)
Judge Priya SewnarineBeharry has refused to grant an ex parte injunction that was brought against the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) by the New Building Society (NBS) for parking meters that were installed in front of that establishment. The writ of summons was presented by Senior Counsel Ashton Chase on behalf of NBS and was brought against the respondent the M&CC. The details of the injunction state that the NBS is aggrieved that the meters were placed in front of their North Road and Republic Avenue location. Further, it is the company’s belief that such a move is disadvantageous and adversely affects and destroys the system and investment they have made in the new location. Additionally, NBS contends that the placement of the meters was done without consultation or approval. NBS also believes that the M&CC was aware that a car park was constructed for NBS customers and for the council to now charge for parking in that location is egregious and improper. NBS feels aggrieved that no one has invited the entity for any discussion or exchange of views in relation to the installation of parking meters in front of the premises. Furthermore, it is the society’s belief that the huge expense incurred to develop the environs of that building was totally disregarded by the M&CC. More importantly, NBS contends that their housing mortgage business which is
the core of its operation with in excess of 10,000 mortgagors will be adversely affected. The company believes that the installation of parking meters will result in monthly loan repayments being delayed and this does not augur well for the profitability of their business. The company says it stands to lose since built up arrears will become burdensome for the liquidity of its operations. The company is seeking $250,000 in damages against the M&CC. The M&CC, in its response, believes that the NBS has unlawfully encroached on a public place within the control of the M&CC. Additionally the city council contends that it has the authority to erect and maintain parking meters and regulate the parking of vehicles on council roads. The M&CC says that NBS argument lacks merit and
as a responsible corporate citizens as it purports to be it should have looked at the way they constructed their building. M&CC argues that it is not responsible or can be saddled with catering for the parking of NBS’s employees and customers. In her refusal statement Judge Beharry, said that NBS has not demonstrated that any equitable right was infringed. Additionally, the judge noted that NBS did not demonstrate that there is a serious question to be tried hence the injunction was refused. However, the judge did say that the parties named in the injunction were free to file and serve inter partes summons with ex parte application; by way of affidavit for an interim injunction. The M&CC is being represented by Attorney-atlaw Roger Yearwood. The matter was adjourned until 15th February.
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Kaieteur News
Police Officers commence training on Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence
Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally seated in the centre with participants at the training. The Ministry of Social Protection with support from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has developed a National Action Plan for the Implementation of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Acts; which is currently being reviewed by the newly resuscitated National Task Force for the Prevention of Sexual Violence (NTFPSV) and other key stakeholders. This Plan of Action is guided by the Sexual Offences Act of 2010 and the Domestic Violence Act of 1996.
An opening ceremony on the Police Officers’ Training on Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence was held yesterday at the Guyana Police Force Training College, Eve Leary Georgetown. Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally said yesterday at the opening ceremony, “This occasion today signals a major step that will be taken to further build the capacity of the Guyana Police Force in handling sensitive cases of victims who have been violated in one of the most inhumane
ways imaginable. “Violence against women is a violation of victims’ freedom, dignity, safety, human rights and must be condemned in all its form particularly domestic and sexual violence,” Minister Ally said that it is often seen as a private matter, something that goes on behind closed doors. However it is not; it is a crime, it is a public and even political issue and we as a nation have a responsibility to protect the victims and facilitate in the prosecution of perpetrators, she
added. Guyana’s fight against domestic violence has been further intensified with the publication and application of the training manual. “I am confident that it will enhance the skills and capacity of Police Officers handling Sexual and Domestic Violence”, Ally said. The creation of the protocol is another step taken by the administration to ensure that the Police Department has the adequate resources or knowledge needed to get the job done. “I believe that the capac-
ity of Police officers to carry out their roles is enhanced when they understand the impact of any form of violence against women and children”, the Minister concluded. During the period February to March 2017 the Ministry of Social Protection will be conducting a series of training on the aforementioned protocols with various ranks across the Guyana Police Force. The first round of training was scheduled for yesterday, at the Guyana Police Force’s Training College (Camp Street). Protocols for Police Officers among other professionals were therefore developed by the Ministry of Social Protection with support from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The Protocols are designed to equip Police Officers with the necessary guidelines and procedures required to improve their overall response to the needs of victims of sexual violence. These include but are not to be limited to conducting professional interviews with the victims; providing effective referrals to various institutions that provide support and give assistance to victims ( e . g . m e d i c a l a ttention, counselling etc.); paper committals during trials. In March 1999 the first batch of twenty three participants with members from the Guyana Police Force, were trained Under the Human Rights Campaign to fight domestic violence.
Friday February 10, 2017
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Kaieteur News
The parking meter saga The parking meter saga has reached the point of irreconcilable objectives. The City Council claims that the parking meters have brought order to Georgetown streets. Those protesting believe that the tariffs are unaffordable; they want the fees reduced. Affordability for all and order in our streets are conflicting objectives. The objective of order cannot be achieved by making parking meters affordable. If parking in the city is affordable to all, then there can be no order because there will be no place for everyone who wants to park to do so. There are other conflicting objectives. The parking meters were also intended as
a revenue stream for City Hall. But in order for City Hall to attract decent revenues, it has to keep rates high enough to ensure that the cost of parking is far higher than the cost of administering the parking meters, and given that City Hall is only obtaining 20% of revenues, it is difficult to see how City Hall can encourage the company operating the parking meters to decrease rates without harming its own revenue intake. Parking meters are intended to reduce the demand for parking, not to ensure that everyone can park. This is something that needs to be understood by all. Parking meters in the United States for example have caused millions
of workers to take public transportation to work rather than drive to work since not only is there not sufficient parking for everyone but it is cheaper to use public transport than to park. City Hall however cannot be serious about maintaining order in the city. City Hall has over the years allowed vendors to take over the pavements and to squat in front of businesses. Right now vehicles are not being parked in the areas metered for parking because people cannot afford to park. But the pavements are not clear either and the Stabroek Square has returned to its infamy. Order is therefore the least thing on City Hall’s mind. Fifty years of PNC
Driving under the influence cases have tripled – Ramjattan Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, announced, yesterday, that based on information provided to him by the Traffic Chief, Dion Moore, cases made out of driving under the influence of alcohol have tripled already in 2017. He made this revelation at the launch of the Household Survey 2016 at the Cara Lodge Hotel in the Capital City yesterday. “There were 89 in early 2016. It is now 228 in early 2017,” the Minister said. The Minister said that the statistics are worrying and immediate intervention is needed from all stakeholders to curb this issue. He pointed out, also, that the major survey of drug use among secondary school students - which was launched in 2015 – shows worrying statistics in relation to alcohol abuse. “Behind these statistics, too, we will come to know what we have become, and what we can do about it,” Ramjattan reported that alcohol binge drinking amongst current users is as high as in males (64.2 percent) than as in females (46.3 percent).
Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan. “My intention here is not to create a moral panic, but in all honesty...these statistics paint a picture which shames us all. It is an outrage! And we must do something about it,” Ramjattan said. The Minister said that the Government of Guyana will embark on a series of initiatives that will aim to curb alcohol abuse and these include: regular sensitisation on the harmful effects of alcohol abuse; continued training of
persons who have shown an interest in the field of treatment and prevention and the establishment of more treatment and rehab centres across the country; the creation of more recreational centres and spaces for individuals appropriate to the various stages in the lifecycle; expansion in job training and economic insertion activities; and media campaigns. “All of these and much more we have to do. But we must never be daunted by the task at hand. To enjoy this country in a couple of years, mean we must put in the efforts now,” Ramjattan said. For the year 2016, a total of 42,349 drivers were charged for the following traffic violations: 23,934 for speeding; 3,379 for driving under the influence of alcohol; 1,701 for driving while not being licensed; 1,603 for driving while using cellular phones; and 4,607 for driving with loud music. According to previous reports, there were also 116 fatal accidents with 127 deaths in 2016 compared to 105 fatal accidents with 123 deaths in 2015.
domination of City Hall has left a legacy of disorder and dirtiness in the City. It will not get better until City Hall stops playing politics with vending and squatting. The parking meter saga therefore cannot be resolved by reducing fees. This will make parking affordable for some but not for all. Even if City Hall gets the company to reduce the fees by half, it will still cost the average worker $800 per day to park. This simply will cause many persons to have to use public transport. But the cost of public transport is now increasing. A short drop around the city used to be $300- $400 per trip. Some drivers are now demanding $500. So it will cost a worker far more to use a special hire than to park if the rates are reduced to $100 per hour. The majority of persons who park in the main commercial district are workers who work at the post office, the insurance companies, the banks, the shipping lines, the major department stores, the lawyers’ offices, the hardware stores and the other business places. Most of these persons are paying premiums on the loans
for their cars. They are repaying $40,000 to $50,000 per month just so that they can get to work and get their children to school. They have to fill their vehicle tanks with petrol each week. Where are they going to find extra money for parking fees? Even at a reduced rate of $100 per hour. It will cost the average worker an extra $16,000-18000 per month. The office workers cannot afford this amount. The President reportedly held an emergency meeting with City Hall. But City Hall cannot reduce any rates. It is the parking meter company which has to reduce the rates. City Hall can use suasion but it is in no position to twist the arms of the company. It signed away the rights to parking meters for 49 years to the company. The tragedy of this whole system is that not only are the fees unaffordable for motorists but the penalties are highly punitive. If you estimate that you will take 15 minutes in the bank and buy 15 minutes of parking time but you get delayed in the bank, your vehicle will be clamped and you have to pay thousands of dollars to get it unclamped. The struggle therefore
cannot be about reducing the parking meters fees. It cannot be reduced much more because this will affect the objectives of the parking meter system. It will not end the chaos in Georgetown. There is only one thing which can be done and that is to press for the abolition of parking meters or for some form of alternative fees such as what is being suggested in the letter pages of our newspapers. But do not tell that to City Hall. They have signed on the dotted line and they will be sued for breach of contract if they do not ensure that the parking meters are up and running.
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Friday February 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Why do Guyanese have to fight for rights and justice? I supported Mayor Hamilton Green when he announced about five years ago that the PPP Government did not approve of parking meters in the city. That was in one of my columns. Never in my imagination could I have conceived of the parking meter arrangement that sections of the society are currently rejecting. Look at the present situation; the AFC, a party that is in government wants the present shape of the implementation to cease and through presidential intervention, there will be a price reduction. Where were the AFC and President Granger when the formidable defects of the contract were being talked about daily by Georgetowners and that were carried in the press? Why these two developments now? Because there were protests, cries and howls. In other words there was a fight and the State intervened. Why did the State have to intervene after protest came about? Why the AFC and President Granger couldn’t see that this thing was flawed from the beginning and
therefore the State should have acted as a mollifying agent? Is it only when people take to the letter pages of the newspapers, Social Media and the streets with their placards that fairness, democracy, justice and freedom are allowed to exist? It just goes to show how intellectually and politically limited is the leadership of Guyana since Independence. One cannot help but be harsh on this intellectual limitation because the commonsense that must inhere in sensible governance is lacking. The contract should have been studied by the Cabinet since it became a hot topic six months ago. But this is not the whole picture about the way leadership in this country behaves. The very contract was in fact reviewed by the Attorney-General chambers and the conclusion was harsh. One would have expected after the AG’s evaluation, the AFC which suddenly found its voice, and the President as the leader of the government would have set as a requirement for implementation, a deletion of the draconian
aspects of the contract, replaced by more realistic adjustments based on the Guyanese economy. Nothing like that happened. The AG’s review did not result in the project being delayed. It came on stream and we now know what followed after that. In fact, this column is not about the parking meter system. I merely used it as an example of the nature of political culture and the stultified thinking of Guyana’s leadership. Is there any Guyanese out there who believe that after the parking meter controversy, the government would learn the lessons and faced with similar situations in the future would act rationally? Yesterday, I saw about twelve weed cutters on the Railway Embankment from the Sherriff Street junction going east, trimming the grassy parapets. Because there were so many of operators, stones and pieces of bottles were flying in the skies as if it was Easter Day kite flying on the seawall. Debris and pieces of bricks were hitting drivers’ vehicles. Thank God, no school child
was hit in the eye by a flying object and lost his/her sight. But that is a strong possibility if you continue to put so many cutters at the same time in one particular area. One hopes that no person ever loses his sight because of that, but should it happen then you will see government’s intervention. There will be strict guidelines as to the type of covers the machines should carry. That is the kind of leadership we have had for a long time in this country. Make no mistake; just how we are seeing intervention on the parking meter thing, we will see
similar action from the State on issues only when Guyanese take to the streets with their placards. In other words, unless you fight for your rights and you protest against violations, the State responds with a generous hand. It is really a sad reflection of 50 years of Independence. I could just rattle off my head dozens of situations of boiling cauldrons but only when the hot water burns the nation, we will see the hand of the State. Yesterday, there was another picket in front of the City Hall. I was there. The numbers were larger this time. I am get-
Frederick Kissoon ting older and older and should leave the world of protest behind me to spend more time with my family and pets. But in Guyana if you do not protest, you will not get justice and liberty. So for me I guess I will continue to hold the placard in the street until I die.
Dem boys seh...
Soulja Bai want licence stray dogs Nuff people complaining how times hard and how people suffering. A man looking in from outside would say is true because when people got problems most of dem does turn to drink. Rum Jattan had a meeting yesterday and he tell people how something wrong because more people drinking. He pull out de figures. He show how last year at this time, dem only ketch 80 people who been drinking and driving. This year dem ketch 250 already. Dem boys did suggest that is de police get more vigilant and ketching more drunk driver. But Rum Jattan seh more people drinking. He even suggest that Banks DIH and DDL mekking de rum more
sweet and tempting people. Dem boys seh that dem remember when de same Rum Jattan seh how he gun ketch nuff of dem when dem come out from dem night spots. He did even put police to stand up outside but then he change he mind. Dem boys seh if he did continue he would charge more than one thousand people by now. And if dem boys think going after drunk drivers bad, dem should see wha coming. Yesterday dem had a Bill in Parliament that seh if people got more than three pets dem must licence dem. Dem boys thought was joke till dem see de Bill. Some people does have stray dogs coming in dem yard because
dem does put out some food. Now wid de new law, if de people ketch a man wid more than three stray dog in he yard he can get charge and jail—fuh dogs that just walk in he yard. Don’t talk if he got three cat lock up in he house. He got to licence dem. Dem boys suspect that somebody believe that people gun get rid of dem old animals. If you got three cows you got to licence dem. Don’t ask if you got three pigs or three parrot. All that happening in de States Soulja Bai bringing here but Jagdeo did try it first, Is just that he didn’t have de testicles to introduce it. Poor fella. Talk half and watch how much animals you owning.
Shopkeeper remanded for killing vagrant Ryan Singh was yesterday remanded to prison after he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with kil l i n g A d r i a n D u n c a n called Timehri Man. The charge read that on February 2 at Alexander Street, Georgetown, he murdered Duncan. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge. According to the facts on the day in question the accused was operating a stall in the said area when he observed the now deceased feeling his pocket. When he made check he realized that his chain and
Remanded to Prison Ryan Singh shades were missing so he confronted the vagrant who picked up a piece of wood. The accused then armed himself with a knife
and dealt the vagrant a stab to the neck and armpit. The latter was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he later died of his injuries.
Friday February 10, 2017
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Kaieteur News
GECOM Chairmanship…
AG Williams to examine PPP submission of constitution interpretation Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, on Wednesday, met with Opposition Parliamentarians, Anil Nandlall and Priya Manickchand, to ensure that the clarity requested by the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, on the Government’s interpretation of Article 161 (2), which speaks to the nominees for the appointment of Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), is provided. During that meeting, the Opposition presented its own interpretation, along with what they believe to be supporting case law and statutes, which Minister Williams has undertaken to carefully examine before a second meeting is organised within one week. According to the Ministry of the Presidency, the meeting occurred at the AG’s office and was conducted as mandated by President Granger, who on January 19, said that the most efficient way to ensure legal clarification on the requirements for the appointment of a Chairman of GECOM, would be for legal representatives of the Opposition and the Government to meet to discuss their interpretations of the Article. “I invited Mr. Nandlall to present their position and he did that relying on several cases and statutory authorities… Now, after they were complete, in order for me to treat properly with his submissions, I would be required, as in any court, any judge would have wanted an opportunity to read the cases that
Mr. Nandlall cited and look at the statues that he mentioned. ”It would not have been propitious to do that at that time so we’ll have to gather in the authorities, read them to see whether what he is saying is coincident with what the authorities are saying,” the Ministry quoted the Minister as saying. The Attorney General noted that that while the Government has already established its position it will carefully examine the points, which have been put forward by Nandlall to ensure that the interests of the country are protected. “I could have indicated to him when you look at the provisions, one “there shall” - it’s mandatory; it tells that you must first look at the mandatory provisions, which deal in descending order: judge, retired judge, person who could be appointed a judge, who is qualified to be a judge and…any other fit and proper person. “I could have done that and said, ‘Well I don’t agree with your interpretation but I’m doing better than that because it’s not a question of Mr. Nandlall and me. It’s a question of the people of Guyana and the question of the proper law to be applied for the future in relation to these matters,” the Attorney General noted. Minister Williams noted that during the course of the meeting, Manickchand did, however, concede that it is the President’s prerogative to determine who is a ‘fit and proper’ person, in keeping with the provisions of the
Former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall. Constitution. Article 161 (2) of the Constitution states, “The Chairman of the Elections Commission shall be a person who holds or who has held office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth, or a court having jurisdictions in appeals from any such court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such judge, or any other fit person.” Nandlall in a Facebook post, stated: “Today (Wednesday), Priya Manickchand, Attorney-atLaw and I met with Attorney General, Mr. Basil Williams, pursuant to a proposal made by President David Granger to Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, to discuss the appointment of a Chairman of Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). “At the meeting, we prof-
US Major General visits Georgetown Major General Michael A. Calhoun, the Adjutant General of the Florida National Guard, recently concluded his initial visit to Guyana as the commander of the State Partnership Programme. The Major General paid courtesy calls on Prime Minister Nagamootoo and Brigadier Patrick West, the Guyana Defence Force Chief of Staff. The Major General expressed interest in GDF medical and engineering capabilities, and said he looks forward to continuing the parties’ excellent relationship. The Florida National Guard and the GDF have enjoyed a strong relationship since beginning the State Partnership Programme in 2003. Originally from Saint Augustine, Florida, Major General Calhoun began his military career as a Pharmacy Officer. He is the recipient of many decorations and medals.
Major General Michael Calhoun and Brigadier Patrick West
fered our interpretation of Article 161 of the Constitution, in writing, and we supported our position with a number of case law authorities from Guyana, the Caribbean and the Commonwealth.” Nandlall stated that the AG was ‘unprepared’ to put forward his or the government’s interpretation of Article 161 of the Constitution, despite several requests for him to do so. “Instead, he indicated that he will need time to interpret our contentions and pre-
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams. pare his response. All of the interpretations offered by us today were fully and publicly ventilated in the media. The meeting ended with the Attorney General being unable to identify another date available in his diary for us to meet again.” Nandlall’s post read. It further stated, “I am disappointed by the lack of preparedness of the Attorney General, which resulted in nothing tangible emerging from the engagement. Moreover, the Attorney General could not even identify a date
for our re-engagement. Quite frankly, I was hoping that the Attorney General would have been ready with his position on the matter today; that may have resulted in this matter being concluded with dispatch and decisively. In the meanwhile, Guyana’s democracy continues to hang in the balance. We consider this a matter of great national importance.” Nandlall has since written to the AG requesting an earliest possible date for the next meeting.
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Friday February 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
GPOC goes digital - launches online shopping network to boost revenue
Telecommunications, Minister Cathy Hughes From right: Post Master, General Karen Brown and Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes, along with other key players of SSOMS. The Guyana Post Office Corporation, (GPOC) yesterday launched its first digital
shopping network in an effort to boost revenue and address the growing challenges fac-
ing the local postal service. The Swift Shipping Online Mailbox Service,
(SSOMS) officially came on stream yesterday, following months of trial. According to Manager of the online shopping network, Tiffany Ferrell, the GPOC service has been tested and proven to deliver in the past months. She said that the Post Office Corporation is working to deliver the service countrywide. Postmaster General, Karen Brown, noted that given its network, GPOC has the advantage of delivering on service better than any other online shopping network. “We have 65 locations across the country,” Brown posited. She noted that the service is supported by PAKYA, an internationally known packaging company based in Miami, Florida. PAKYA, Brown explained, is instrumental in getting the packages from the United States and other parts of North America and the world safely to its destination by air or sea. The company has warehouses in Miami, FL. Having personally tested the service, Brown noted that
the post office has been efficient in having the packages arrive safe and on time. Meanwhile Minister of Telecommunication, Cathy Hughes noted that the Ministry has been working hard to provide an enabling environment in which E-commerce can thrive. “Today’s launch signals that we have joined the world’s e-trade networks in a bigger way since online shopping became possible. Today we’re adding our postal facilities, and raising the bar in Guyana, and ensuring that the Guyana Post Office Corporation moves ahead with its planned transformation to better serve consumers in this digital age,” Hughes said. “As we all know, in this area we are miles behind countries like the USA, Canada, Germany and China, and even some Caribbean nations. But we are planning and putting things in place that will allow us to participate in electronic commerce (or e-Trade), and we intend to fully utilize the special features that we do have, “she added. The telecommunications Minister outlined that the Ministry is well on the way to
implementing the facilities and programmes for eLearning, and telemedicine, and a truly interactive online public service for our citizens. “We are making great strides in the development of an online passport application process and other initiatives will come on stream shortly. We are aiming for a fully digital society, and mark my words - as soon as we complete the full expansion and upgrade of our fibre optic and LTE networks, and we have sufficient broadband capacity and speed, Guyana will have a few smart houses of our own.” Hughes said that while the world is moving towards recalibration and dissolution of postal service, it will not be going out of business in Guyana. “It is not an option, not for this government. Like every postal service in the world, years ago we saw the day approaching when Guyana would have to choose to recalibrate its operations; either contract it or dissolve it. So recalibration is what we’ve had to do to make the postal service relevant and necessary in this age of electronic communication,” she emphasized.
Friday February 10, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Cops look at love triangle as motive in Tain domestic worker’s murder - man suspected of hiring killers Police have detained a 25year-old barber for the murder of domestic worker, Leelawattie Mohamed, as they investigate reports that a jealous woman may have hired the killers. Detectives from ‘B’ Division have received reports that the detained man had repeatedly threatened Mohamed and her family. He is also said to be in a relationship with an overseasbased woman, with whose husband Mohamed was having an affair. Initial reports had suggested that Mohamed, 45, was the victim of two ‘kick-down-the door’ bandits, who shot her dead after she said she had no money. But investigators now appear certain that the intruders were hired to kill Mohamed. They have received reports that the 45year-old mother of four was in a relationship with a businessman, whose wife lives overseas. Reports also suggest that the man detectives are questioning was recruited to organise the hit. “We don’t think that this is a robbery,” a senior police official told Kaieteur News. “Thieves don’t operate like
Dead: Leelawattie Mohamed this. They may shoot you in the foot, or they may threaten your children. These men didn’t ever search the house for money.” The official described the detained barber as “someone who is always in trouble,” and who has been hostile to Mohamed and her children. “We have also gotten information that he was looking for somebody to kill the lady.” Investigators were also told that the detained man was in a relationship with the woman, who is suspected to have paid for Mohamed’s execution. But ‘B’ Division Commander Ian Amsterdam indicated that detectives still
have no solid evidence, and his detectives are investigating all possible leads. “We are working on some other information, both local and overseas, that (suggests) we need to look in a different direction; that it may have been an execution that was allegedly ordered by another female.” “We don’t know if it is so, or if the husband knows. That is something we need to check out. We have to dig a little deeper. We have some persons we are talking to and we are looking at some other areas. We are getting the information, and we are calling in the persons for questioning.” Leelawattie Mohamed, of Lot 149, Sixth Street, Tain Settlement, Corentyne, was shot close range in her home at around 23.45 hrs on Tuesday, in the presence of her two teenage children. From reports gathered, Mohamed and two teenage children were at home when two men, who were clad in black, barged into their premises. The son, Ashad Ishack, said that he was at home with his mother and sister when he heard someone kicking on the
The slain woman’s house
front door. He stated that within minutes, three masked men, one armed with a shotgun, barged in and ordered them to lie on the floor. “Dem hold meh mommy by she hair and ask she where de money deh and she tell dem she nah got, and dem put the gun at she throat and
shoot she.” He related that the killers escaped through the same door before scaling a fence and firing a shot in the air as they ran towards the backlands. Mohamed is said to have previously resided in Bloomfield Village, Corentyne. That property was burned
down, allegedly by arsonists, some years ago. Mohamed then moved into the house where she was slain. Meanwhile, an autopsy revealed that Mohamed died from shock and hemorrhage due to gunshots wounds, laceration of the brain and fracture of the skull.
Food Safety Bill referred to Special Select Committee The Food Safety Bill, which was read for the second time yesterday in the National Assembly, was referred to a Special Select Committee. It is the hope of the Members of the House that the Parliamentary Committee would be able to put the finishing touches to a Bill that provides a strong foundation as it relates to preventing the spread of food borne diseases through the control of the production, preparation, handling, storage and the transportation of food among other related matters. Speaking on the importance of the Bill was Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder. The Parliamentarian said that as Guyana moves towards a more modernized agricultural sector, with an effective and more sustainable system for ensuring food security, a Food Safety Bill is imperative. Holder said there is no question that there is need for a massive overhaul of Guyana’s food laws. He stressed too, that Guyana, now more than ever, needs to improve its food safety practices so as to be able to tap into a number of foreign
markets. To amplify the need for the Bill, Holder examined just three aspects of food safety. He said, “Firstly, there is safety from the increasing risk of food borne diseases and its implications on the cost of health care. Secondly, with economic growth, there is the increase in consumer demand for quality consumerables, specifically, safe food. And finally, there is the question of who is in responsible for food security; is it the consumer, the producer or the government? “ With respect to the accountability for food safety, Holder said that the responsibility is shared by everyone involved in the sector. As for the Government, he said that the administration is responsible for providing an effective regulatory environment for food safety. With this Bill, he asserted that the Government will be one step closer to streamlining food safety. He said, too, that in today’s world, consumers ask a lot of questions regarding the manner in which their produce was obtained. He said that consumers want to know that their food came
Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder from an animal safe and environmentally friendly place. Holder further noted that there are limits to what the Government can do. As such, he asserted that producers remain primarily responsible for the safety of their products. He commented that the sector itself will have to develop a supervisory system. Under the Act, the Agriculture Minister disclosed that a Food Safety Authority will be established. By doing so, the Parliamentarian said that Guyana will follow in the footsteps of the Canadians who have a food inspection agency so as to maintain
consumer confidence. He said that this authority will fall under the Ministry of Agriculture. Holder told the House that the authority will provide for the consolidation of a number of inspectorates such as the Guyana Livestock Development Board and the Food and Drugs Department. He said that the Food Safety Authority will follow a meticulously coordinated approach for ensuring food security practices. In this regard, the Agriculture Minister said that the surveillance and inspection of food and food related diseases in Guyana will be priority for the Authority. The politician said that the Authority will also prescribe for Guyana, a number of stipulations, solutions and practices that are in keeping with international best practices. The Minister of Agriculture also noted that there will be immediate effects to having the Bill passed. In this regard, he said that strategic advances will be taken in the area of risk assessment, identifying food related hazards, characterizing them into groups and assessing the mobility of diseases as well
as identifying the health risks that are attached to producing and marketing certain foods. The Minister then commended the Bill for passage in the House. Even though the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) was responsible for most of the initial works done on the Food Safety Bill, it was still not convinced that the Bill was ready to be passed. Instead, Members of the Opposition cited several concerns with the Bill. One member from the western side of the House, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, took issue with the fact that the Bill seeks to give “severe powers” of enforcement to the posts of the food analysts and inspectors. Ramsaran said that those officers will have powers of detention and intervention into the food processing and distribution process, including the powers of seizure for certain periods. He argued that such powers, without the necessary checks and balances, will pose some discomfort. Without such mechanisms to prevent the abuse of power, Ramsaran believes that it would only
“undermine the beauty of a Bill.” He said, “We can have a better Bill. It is an enormous document. Let us take this good bill to a Special Select Committee so that it can be made into a near perfect Bill.” Ramsaran was supported by his other colleagues who were, to some extent, successful in pointing out other undeniable flaws in the Bill. Among the many criticisms he proffered, Opposition Member, Dharamkumar Seeraj highlighted the fact that the Bill neglects to place enough emphasis on protecting the nation’s borders from products which are not fit for consumption, but have been making their way into local markets. He argued that the Bill should give more focus on strengthening supervision of the nation’s ports of entry to prevent the infiltration of such products. He joined with his colleague in requesting that the Bill be sent to a select committee for further work. The Agriculture Minister, who had the final word during the session, subsequently agreed with the Opposition and referred the Bill to a Special Select Committee.
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Friday February 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
EU funds “The Helpline” suicide initiative ...to target 3000 persons The European Union (EU) on Wednesday, signed a grant contract of $87.9M with Youth Challenge Guyana in partnership with Merundoi and Family Awareness C o n s c i o u s n e s s Togetherness (FACT) to fund a suicide prevention project called the, “The Helpline”. The launch of the project and signing of the contract was held in the Promenade Gardens, Georgetown. The project will be targeting over 3000 persons in Guyana aged 14 to 45 for three years Commenting at the launch of the project, EU Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videtic, said, “This is an unprecedented support for civil society in Guyana and shows the importance the European Union attaches to civil society and its role in democracy and human rights. He added, “There is strong partnership between the European Union and civil society.” The 36-month project aims to increase the supply of protective services for
people at risk of suicide through a collaborative network of Civil Society Organisations currently engaged in communities across the country providing health and social services. “The Helpline” will further aim to establish protective service centres across the country to accommodate counselling, life skills, support groups and case navigation to improve the existing psychosocial support systems to deliver targeted services to vulnerable communities. Social workers, counsellors and life skills mentors will be deployed under the project to reach targeted populations via the radio serial drama, street theatre, mass media social marketing and social media marketing to change perceptions and beliefs about services much as counselling, support groups and other protective services. The protective services that will be executed by this action will complement existing Government services and conduct case navigation of clients who require support
From left: EU Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videtic and Executive Director of Youth Challenge Guyana signing to the project yesterday. from Government Services. Ambassador Videtic said the project will be addressing exactly these areas. Further, “It is not mainly about funding the project it is mainly about the effect civil society gets when we help in Guyana. We are going to support because we are convinced that there can be a fully functioning democracy. I would like to wish all of the organisations a lot of success in this project.”
Executive Director of Youth Challenge Guyana, Dmitri Nicholson, said yesterday, “Many of us are familiar with the frequency with our headlines that someone has committed suicide. Unfortunately, we are no more aware of what triggered these actions and what power did we have to intervene, as a result of that three likeminded organisations came together and thought they should intervene and created
a concept, though through obstacles and challenges, it was presented to the UN which got funded”. The project will work with a number of NonGovernmental Organisations and provide services with persons in society particularly, counselling. The Executive Director said that, they will be working with organisations in Regions Two, Three, Four Five, Six and Ten to ensure that services are closest to the
most vulnerable population and communities. These organisations will be supported with capacity building to strengthen their services that they currently offer. “We believe that many persons are suffering in silence and do not know where to turn for help, it could be this way for a number of reasons one of which we found, is that many people in difficult circumstances often do not know what services are available to them and how to access them,” Nicholson said. It is expected that through this initiative this will change, people will want to access protective services. They will also be networking survivors so that they can share their experiences and give strength to those out there that might be suffering from mental illness. “You can lock up the instruments or mechanism that persons may use to injure themselv e s , b u t locking up these things does not mean that the hurt and pain that people face will go away, and if we can’t address this, the issue of suicide, it will never go away,” the Executive Director said.
Friday February 10, 2017
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Govt. tables Bill to licence three or more animals
Tinkering with $8B CH&PA budget leads to delays in approval
...House votes to send it to Select Committee
Breeders of three or more pets for sale may soon have to be registered After its second reading, the Animal Welfare Bill No. 21 of 2016 will be sent to a Parliamentary Special Select Committee for further consideration following an extensive round of debating by members of the National Assembly yesterday. The Bill presented by Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, deals with the welfare of animals and provides for their protection and wellbeing. The People’s Progressive Party Civic parliamentarians, however, called for the Bill to be placed before the committee so as to facilitate consultation which they believed was lacking. One of the areas of contention was Clause 28 of the Bill which requires breeders of three or more companion animals, who wish to sell those animals, to apply to the competent authority for permission before he or she commences breeding the animals. The ‘authority’ refers to the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) while ‘companion animal’ under the Bill means any animal kept by man for companionship, protection, assistance or interest, in other words, pets. The GLDA would then have to keep a record of all breeders. According to the Bill any person who fails to comply with the provision of the section commits an offence. Clause 38 of the Bill imposes a penalty in the form of a fine of $60,000 and to imprisonment for four months. Moreover the Bill prevents persons from selling pets to individuals under the age of 18. Owners of such animals will be expected to ensure that their animals cannot move in a way that poses a risk to the health and safety of other animals and people. The Bill also seeks to prevent the sale of
companion animals to persons below the age of 18. Speaking on the issue was PPPC Parliamentarian, Zulfikar Mustapha, who said that the measure shows Government taking their tax regime “to the dogs.” “If you breed dogs now for sale you have to register that business. That is literally taking this to the dogs in our country.” Additionally, the Bill calls for anyone who intends to use any animal in a film or television production, exhibition or competition to notify the GLDA of the place and time of the event at least seven days prior to the occasion. Mustapha asked whether persons participating in horse racing events or film makers would have to approach the authority for every event held or production created. “In my Region, horse racing is a big attraction. What will happen to those national events? Would the media have to get permission to film it? In promoting tourism, would international film companies now have to feel the brunt of the bureaucracy in promoting our country’s tourism potential?” The Bill also prevents a livestock farmer from transporting his animals beyond 50 kilometres using his personal vehicle. “Would this mean that a farmer from Berbice or a far flung area travelling to Georgetown would have to transport their animals 50 kilometres in their vehicle and then use another vehicle to transport the animals to Georgetown? This is an additional burden on the backs of livestock farmers Mr Speaker.” Another criticism against the presented Bill came from MP Dharamkumar Seeraj who said that the provisions speak little to improving welfare at the stage of the fields for animals and farmers. He said that at present,
conditions at best can be described as primitive. Seeraj told the National Assembly that the physical infrastructure is not in place to give effect to the requirements made of farmers. He stressed, also, that emphasis needs to be placed on consolidating production and providing incentives to farmers to expand and grow. Meanwhile, Junior Minister of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings told the House that animals and humans depend on each other in innumerable ways. She explained that having a healthy population of animals ensures that the world’s population can remain well nourished. Cummings later mentioned five internationally recognised freedoms of animal welfare which the Bill seeks to uphold. These are freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury or disease, freedom to express normal behaviour and freedom from fear and distress. According to Minister Holder, the Animal Welfare Bill was drafted in 2011 to fulfil Guyana’s readiness to access the export market for nontraditional agricultural Products, which was driven by the Agricultural Export Diversification Project (ADP), an IDB-funded project. It was discussed in Cabinet in 2014 but was never placed before this house. He explained that welfare encompasses both physical and psychological wellbeing, therefore a multipronged approach is proposed through this bill. “Animal welfare incorporates all aspects of an animal’s wellbeing, including housing, nutrition, disease prevention and treatment, transport, and humane slaughter, be it livestock or companion animals.”
State Minister, Joseph Harmon
Former CH&PA CEO, Myrna Pitt
Communities Minister, Ronald Bulkan
The ambitious $8B Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) budget which entails several new initiatives to make available housing solutions to the populace, is yet to be approved. Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, reported yesterday that there were many delays in securing the approval of the Board of Directors for the agency’s 2017 expenditure. The Minister related that the board had requested additional information. Based on the Minister’s comments as reported by the Government Information Agency (GINA), it appears as if the board had requested “reliable data to confidently support the expenditure” as it relates to the agency’s policy shift from providing house lots to constructing housing units for eligible applicants. “I didn’t criticize the board when they announced that they wanted to have reliable data to confidently support the expenditure…We will now move in a different direction. We have different priorities, a different emphasis and a different focus,” Minister Bulkan
emphasized. Meanwhile, a CH&PA official said, yesterday, that the budget was presented to the board for approval and discussions were held. However, management, upon moving to the finance committee for approval by means of stamping the document, it was discovered that there were changes to the discussed and agreed upon proposals. These changes, the official said, were done ‘internally’ by management. The finance committee, the source revealed, is yet to give the green light. Recommendations have since been made to have the board re-examine the agency’s 2017 expenditure. Readers would recall the Minister of State, Joseph Harmon’s comments last week Wednesday, in which he divulged that the life of the board had been brought to an end and affirmed that a new board will be appointed shortly. The CH&PA official is positing that with the absence of a functioning board, initiatives aimed at improving the housing sector and the lives of the populace, are now in limbo. Contained in the
agency’s 2017 programme, is the proposed expenditure of $2.3B on last year’s roll-over projects (ongoing infrastructure works) in Regions four coastal regions. Meanwhile, Minister Bulkan also expressed hope that the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CH&PA will be appointed soon. He reported that after the resignation of former Chief Executive Officer, Myrna Pitt, a name was submitted as her replacement but the suggested replacement is yet to reach Cabinet for approval since the matter has been engaging the attention of the executives. However, the minister pointed out that the position requires an individual with strong, managerial capacity in order to effectively execute the 2017 work programme. “Hopefully, we should see the post being filled before the start of the project,” he said.
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Friday February 10, 2017
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Guyana has highest incidence of cancer mortality in the Region
Guyana currently has the highest incidence of cancerrelated mortality when compared to the Caribbean Region. This is according to data released by the Ministry of Public Health. Based on the Ministry’s data, Guyana ranks highest with an incidence rate of 46.9 percent and a mortality rate of 21.0 per 100,000 persons. In fact, in Guyana, cervical cancer alone kills an estimated 100 women every year, making it the leading cause of cancer mortality among local women. The global state of affairs is farther reaching with some 530,000 new cases of cervical cancer detected annually and killing approximately 266,000 women or 50.2 per cent of the total cancer victims. To arrest the challenge here, Public Health Minister, Ms. Volda Lawrence, is touting earlier screening of Guyanese to help reduce the locally recorded deaths from cancers. Minister Lawrence is worried that if the cancer related mortality trend continues, generations of
Guyanese will grow up not knowing close family members. “I not only have a message to the women but I have a message to the men also. Your family needs you and they need you in the best of health and we want you to be able to be around for your grandchildren and great grandchildren and if possible great, great grandchildren,” said the Minister during a recent screening activity at the Giftland Mall at Turkeyen. The Pan American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO) in a 2012 report said cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, globally, with approximately 14 million new cases. During this year’s observance of World Cancer Day, the Public Health Ministry collaborated with a number of Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and the private sector to host cervical cancer screening through Visual Inspection using Acetic Acid (VIA) method and sensitization sessions.
- cervical cancer accounts for more cancer deaths among women Cervical cancer, a cancer arising from the cervix, is linked to several risk factors, mainly the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), chlamydia infection, early sexual activity and multiple sexual partners. Recently, a team from the Ministry of Public Health conducted medical outreaches in Orealla, Region Six (East Berbice/ Corentyne); Kabacaburi, Region Two (Pomeroon/ Supenaam) and Sophia, Region Four (Demerara/ Mahaica). Some 67 women had their VIA done; five were detected with cancerous lesions. They were treated and rescheduled for follow-up examination in two years. Medical outreaches were also rolled out at the Periwinkle Club, Alberttown, Georgetown, with over 45 persons benefiting from VIA screening, blood pressure
and random blood sugar testing. The medical team spearheaded yet another outreach recently at Giftland Mall and Bounty Supermarkets over the weekend where hundreds of persons traversing the mall and supermarkets were presented with brochures and flyers and were educated on the various types of cancers. The weekend sessions were done in collaboration with the Giving Hope Foundation. The Ministry of Public Health is currently finetuning a comprehensive cancer prevention and control programme for the country. This will aid in ensuring that common risk factors for cancers, such as tobacco and alcohol use, physical inactivity and unhealthy diets are addressed. When the Ministry of Public Health released a Cancer Surveillance Report in 2015 which highlighted the recorded state of cancer over the period 2003-2012, it was revealed that in excess of 6,000 individuals were diagnosed with cancer. It was reported, then, that while on a global scale lung
cancer was deemed the leading cause of cancer deaths; in Guyana breast cancer was responsible for the highest number of cancer related fatalities. Cervical cancer has reportedly since taken the lead. The Cancer Surveillance Report had revealed that there were 1,090 cases of breast cancer over the period under consideration in the report. Following the prevalence of breast cancer was cancer of the cervix which accounts for 1,014 cases; prostate (865 cases); colo-rectal (440 cases); uterus (325 cases); stomach (240 cases); lung (233 cases); liver (219 cases); ovary (212 cases) and lymphoma (136 cases). Data out of the Cancer Registry, drawn from both public and private medical institutions, suggest that since access to treatment has been near non-existent more than half of those inflicted with the disease died. Resident Representative of PAHO/WHO, Dr. Williams Adu-Krow, noted that like Guyana some 50 percent of countries in the Americas do not have in place cancer programmes.
Minister of Public Health, Ms. Volda Lawrence Even as he reiterated the need to raise awareness about cancers, the PAHO/ WHO Rep. pointed out that while globally it is said that 40 percent of all cancers can be prevented, 30 percent can in fact be cured altogether. “If we have 80 percent of our cancers not having any history of having being treated and 40 percent of all cancers can be prevented, I think it stands to reason that we have to pay more attention to prevention,” said Dr. AduKrow as he also stressed the need for early screening and treatment. He also emphasized PAHO/WHO’s commitment to continuing to help Guyana’s effort to address the cancer situation.
Fire leaves five homeless in Agricola The remains of the house
A fire of unknown origin destroyed a two-storey home at Agricola East Bank Demerara, and left a family of five homeless. According to a resident who occupied the lower flat of the building, he was not at
home at the time of the incident and could not say what exactly caused the fire. “I was up the street when somebody called me and tell me that my house is on fire. By the time I reach I see the whole house in flames.”
The man further stated that he resided at the property with his spouse and three children, and that no one lived in the top flat of the building. “Up there lock up”, he said
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Charity pharmacy suffers burglar attack Police on the Essequibo Coast are currently investigating a break and enter that occurred some time Wednesday night at the True Value Pharmacy. Owners of the Pharmacy, Henry and Carletta Alphonso, who are currently off the Coast, were shellshocked yesterday morning when they were alerted that someone had broken into their business located at Lot 119 Charity, Essequibo Coast. The discovery was made yesterday morning around 7:50 am by the Assistant Manager of the Pharmacy. She noted that a side door that was usually locked was left opened. She then made further investigations around the building only to discover that someone had broken into the building after knocking in the ventilation on top of the wall. Surveillance
footage reveals that there was one masked man inside the Pharmacy. However, it is believed that more persons were involved in the crime. Kaieteur News understands that the perpetrators made their way onto the Alphonso property after jumping over the western fence. After they tampered with the surveillance cameras outside the building they tried to gain access via the side door. Realizing that the side door was a dead end they then smashed in the ventilation blocks at the back of the building using a heavy piece of wood. They made their exit through the vent with stolen clothes, hair machines, perfumes, slippers, 3D video games and $167,000 in cash (phone card and c-point money) along with an additional sum of money.
The Alphonso Pharmacy that the burglars attacked
It was discovered six hours later by Mrs. Alphonso herself that the crooks also broke into her home above the Pharmacy. They gained entry through the back window after removing the grill. Mrs. Alphonso stated: “I noticed the laundry door opened, the bedroom doors open, the cupboard door open and a half drank bottle of water.” It is believed that the perpetrators found a bunch of keys in the house to gain access to the various rooms. They then exited the house through the back door with a bottle of wine.
The ransacked interior
Minibus conductor remanded for robbery and assault on UG student The quick actions of a number of residents of ‘A’ Field, Sophia, helped capture a robber who was in the process of assaulting a young lady. The bandit, who trailed the young lady from the ‘B’ Field Sophia Bus Park in Georgetown to her grandparents’ home in ‘A’ Field, Sophia, pounced on the unsuspecting victim as she was about to turn into the home of her grandparents’ where she resided. The victim, 20-year-old, Grace Hutson, a first-year International Relations student at the University of Guyana had left classes and was at the ‘B’ Field Bus Park to get transportation to her home. She said that she did notice the young man but thought nothing of him as he joined the minibus like every other passenger. Nothing seemed amiss about him. She said that little
did she know that he was trailing her. She however noted, that after disembarking the minibus she was walking through the dark street when the man suddenly pounced on her, pulling her handbag. “I pulled back my bag as I was very surprised. Then he proceeded to assault me in his desperate attempt to secure my belongings,” the young Hutson said. She related that after the assault the man began walking briskly as though nothing was wrong. However, her grandmother who was looking on in surprise raised an alarm, alerting neighbours who gave chase after the young bandit. The culprit was quickly apprehended and a member of the community policing group who was present handed him over to the police promptly. The accused, 34-year-old
Raymond Rodriques, of 112 Section ‘B’ Sophia was taken to court yesterday and charged with robbery and assault. Rodriques told the court that he is the father of five children and begged the magistrate to place him on bail as he is the sole breadwinner. He further explained that he is a minibus conductor and assured the court that he will attend court. However the police prosecutor requested that bail be denied, noting that the victim is still traumatized by the incident and the fact that such matters have become prevalent. He reminded the court that the victim was returning home from her University classes when she was attacked viciously by Rodriques. The magistrate denied bail. He was subsequently remanded to prison until April 3, when he will reappear in the Sparendaam Magistrates Court.
Friday February 10, 2017
Region Nine REO slapped with sexual assault charge Carl Parker, 53, of Lethem, the Regional Executive Officer (REO) was yesterday arraigned in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where he appeared to answer to the charge of sexual assault against one of the Region’s elected representatives. The matter was heard in camera before City Magistrate Judy Latchman in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to protect the identity of the victim of sexual assault. It is alleged that during June, 2016 at Yupukari, Central Rupununi, he sexually assaulted a 19-year-old elected official. Parker pleaded not guilty to the charge after it was read to him by the Magistrate. Parker was represented by Attorney-at-Law Jerome Khan, who, in a statement to the press stated that the problem stemmed from his client refusing to allow other elected officials to distribute contracts to their friends in the Region and he was standing strongly on the procurement act. “Parker was approached by several elected officials in Region Nine to award contracts to long standing
Carl Parker supporters of the current administration.” Khan further stated, “The allegation came as a shock and surprise to his client. The entire Lethem area is in total shock that Parker is being accused of something like this. Khan went on to tell the media that he believes that his client is a victim of a political assault intended to remove him as REO of Region Nine citing that it is evident that the allegations were made against him because he was shifting sides from the governing coalition
government to the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Khan stressed that the accusation has been trumped up because his client refuses to facilitate contracts. “This is a political hatchet job inside to remove Parker from his post the lawyer stressed while talking to reporters outside the court. The lawyer further noted that the person who made the allegation against his client is well known to his client and is fully aware that his client would be removed from his post based on the accusers’ claims. Khan stated that the sexual assault incident reportedly occurred on June 13 last but it was until December last that the matter was reported to the Police. The Attorney stated that since then his client has fully cooperated with the Police throughout the investigation. “The damage is already done and they want to see him convicted’ khan said. Parker was released on $200,000 bail and ordered to make his next court appearance on February 16 before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
Man jailed for pushing spouse in trench Troy Marshall, 35, of Lot 265 ‘D’ Field Sophia, East Coast Demerara, who was charged with the offence of inflicting grievous bodily harm on Belinda Williams on August 15, 2016 at ‘E’ Field Sophia, East Coast Demerara, was yesterday sentenced to six months’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty. Marshall was arrested on February 9 and placed before Magistrate Zamilla AllySeepaul in the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court. Williams is Marshall’s reputed wife. On the day in question about 3am the parties had an argument which resulted in the victim barring Marshall from entering the house. In the process he bit her hands three times and give her several slaps across her face.
Belinda Williams, after receiving the slaps pushed the accused and ran out of the house onto the road. The defendant ran behind her and pushed her into the trench. Marshall then went into the trench behind her, held onto her neck and pushed her head under the water telling her he will bubble her, as he kept pushing her head into the trench. A neighbour who saw what was transpiring went out and shouted on the accused telling him to stop what he was doing. The victim then went to the Turkeyen Police Station and made a report. She later obtained a medical certificate. Marshall was arrested and later placed on station bail. An arrest warrant had to
Troy Marshall heads to jail be issued for him since he never showed up for court. The Police found him on February 9 and took him to court.
Businesses, workers demand... (From page 7) then so be it. This economy cannot afford, does not allow for its population to pay for parking for the simple fact that the people who will be paying for parking are not in the upper classes only.” Activist Mikhail Rodrigues voiced his opinion to the media that the project is a plot to frustrate the Guyanese people. “It is
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not logical. These are concerned people who are frustrated. I got a car but they don’t know that I hustling to pay me bills. They can’t measure the people frustration. “These people out here are not regular protestors. Everybody here got people working for them. We have people out here whose businesses hire hundreds of people. So this
is a wide cross section of society.” The tone of yesterday’s event which began at noon was peaceful as promised. Protestors used their numbers and placards to express their disagreement with the project. They stood in the midday sun and dispersed promptly at 13:00hrs after singing the National Anthem.
No financial statements from City Hall for 9 years The Ministry of Communities is to get support from the Office of the Auditor General (AG) to help make the financial management procedures of local government councils more effective. This was disclosed by Permanent Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Communities, Emil McGarrell to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Monday morning. McGarrell, supported by staff of the ministry and of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, appeared before the watchdog, PAC, based on information revealed in the Auditor General’s 2015 report, relating to the Ministry of Communities. Among issues addressed was the outstanding Financial Statements of the municipalities. According to the government report on the Parliamentary meeting, the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01 of the laws of Guyana, requires all accounts of the Municipal and District Councils to be made up yearly to the end of the financial year by the Treasurer of the council. These accounts are to be made up no later than four months after the end of the financial year to which they are related, for auditing by the Auditor General soon after. According to the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01 of the laws of Guyana, Section 176, the responsibility of submitting Financial Statements for the councils
- parliamentary committee told
Permanent Secretary (PS) Emil McGarrell appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) this morning lies solely with the Treasurer of the councils. Despite this legal requirement, a number of councils are in violation, it was disclosed. The Georgetown Mayor and City Council for instance, has not submitted Financial Statement for 2006-2013 and 2015. The city was during the period under Mayor Hamilton Green. During this period also, Central Government under the previous
Government, has been releasing monies to City Council. McGarrell explained that the failure of the council to submit these statements is a problem of poor financial management. He explained that this is a challenge that has several root causes including the financial standing of the councils to employ the necessary skills, needed for effective management. “If you do an analysis of the officers holding position (of) Treasurer in most of the councils, it will let you know that you need to do more work to attract greater skills,” McGarrell said. He noted that the issue is further exacerbated by the fact that the councils, not the ministry, have the responsibility for appointing these officers. The ministry has started discussions with the Auditor General’s Office on the development of a strategy to empower the councils to improve their financial management capabilities, McGarrell said. Resolving the financial management challenges of the council is also a core component of the ministry’s plan for 2017 and will also be address through several workshops and seminars, McGarrell said.
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood
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Thieves trail, break into US-based Guyanese car -escape with US$5000, personal documents A US-based Guyanese lost US$5000 and personal documents after thieves in a Nissan Bluebird followed him to a business place in Saffon Street, Charlestown around 1 0 : 4 0 h r s y e s t e r d a y, and broke into his car. In less than five minutes, the thieves broke the lock on the driver’s side of
Balchandra Hardowar’s Toyota 212 and his trunk and escaped with a bag containing documents including his US driver’s licence and land title. It is believed that the thieves followed the overseas-based Guyanese from a city bank, where he went to make a deposit. Surveillance footage
showed the car trailing Hard o w a r a n d w h e n h e parked on Saffon Street, the occupants waited on their victim to leave his vehicle after which two men quickly went to the man’s vehicle and broke the lock. Anyone with information can contact the Ruimveldt Police Station.
Zero tolerance -Jamaican Govt. to target perpetrators of domestic violence, sexual abuse and grooming of minors
Prime Minister Andrew Holness addresses journalists , in the presence of Acting Commissioner of Police Novelette Grant (left) and Attorney General Marlene Malahoo-Forte. (Jamaica Observer photo) The Andrew Holness-led Administration on Wednesday announced a zero-tolerance approach towards perpetrators of domestic violence, sexual abuse and grooming of minors, signalling its intention to arrest the growing crime wave sweeping the island. The announcement of enforcing existing laws comes in the wake of an escalation in crimes against women and children in recent weeks.
Prime Minister Holness, at a hastily-called press conference at Jamaica House following a special meeting of the Cabinet, suggested that the nation has been brought to its knees with crime because violence has been used as a currency of social transaction, effectively identifying its root as a cultural one. Holness promised that the coming crime plan will undoubtedly cause disruption in the way the country
Correction
Kaieteur News inadvertently published in its Thursday edition (February 9, 2017), the photograph of Fazil Azeez as the President of Somalia. Today, we publish the photograph of the Somali President, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo.
has operated. “The Government will be using existing laws, which include preventative detention in live and imminent situations of domestic violence, sexual abuse and grooming of minors to remove aggressors from the scene, thereby deescalating the situation,” he told journalists at the press conference, while insisting that the announcement is not a knee-jerk reaction. He noted, too, that at an appropriate time he will be putting together all the elements Government has been working on to tackle crime. But, as part of the zerotolerance approach, the police, assisted by the Transport Authority, will be targeting ‘robot’ (illegal) taxis as of Monday next week, and will be removing dark tints from all public passenger vehicles. The police have arrested and charged 1,442 perpetrators of crimes against women and children over the past 13 months. Acting Police Commissioner Novelette Grant, who also spoke at the press conference, disclosed that 86 people had been held for shooting, 67 for murder, 252 for rape, 280 for robbery, 202 for sexual offences/indecent assault, 237 for sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 16, 169 for break-ins, while 54 were held for larceny.
Friday February 10, 2017
Region’s tourist arrivals hit alltime high BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Caribbean tourism broke new ground in 2016, surpassing 29 million arrivals for the first time ever, and once again growing faster than the global average. “Despite political, security and economic uncertainties and challenges in our main source markets, tourist arrivals to the Caribbean increased by 4.2 per cent in 2016, better than the 3.9 per cent overall internationally,” secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Hugh Riley announced yesterday in presenting the Caribbean Tourism Performance Report 2016. “Encouragingly, we welcomed over one million more visitors last year than in 2015, to reach 29.3 million, continuing our proud record of continuous growth for the seventh straight year,” he told a news conference held at CTO headquarters, and streamed to a global audience. Visitor expenditure also hit a new high, growing by an estimated 3.5 per cent to reach US$35.5 billion. The United States remained the Caribbean’s primary market with an estimated 14.6 million stayover arrivals, up 3.5 per cent on 2015. However, it was Europe that recorded the highest rate of growth among the main source markets, led by strong increases from Ger-
CTO’s acting Director of Research Ryan Skeete (left) and Secretary General Hugh Riley many (8.2 per cent) and the United Kingdom (4.1 per cent). “Despite terrorist attacks in some countries, the Brexit referendum in the UK and bumpy economic outcomes across continental Europe, arrivals from that market climbed by 11.4 per cent, to reach 5.6 million. The strong European performance was evident by the healthy increases of between six and 16.8 per cent in each month, compared to the corresponding month in 2015,” Mr. Riley said. Intra- Caribbean travel also so performed well, recording a 3.6 per cent increase – the second straight year of growth – despite costly and fragmented air service. Canada, normally a robust market for the Caribbean, recorded a decrease for the first time since 1994,
and only the second contraction since 1982. The 3.3 million arrivals from that market represented a 3.4 per cent drop when compared to 2015. The South American market also contracted by 10.6 per cent, mainly due to political instability in two of the main sources. The CTO secretary general also revealed that cruise arrivals grew at a slower pace of 1.3 per cent to approximately 26.3 million, while the hotel sector recorded negative growth, with all hotel indicators contracting, with the exception of the number of available rooms, which grew by just over one per cent, according to Smith Travel Research. Regarding the outlook for 2017, the CTO predicts increases of 2.5 and 3.5 per cent in long-stay arrivals and increases of between 1.5 per cent and 2.5 per cent in cruise passenger arrivals.
World Bank appoints new Country Director for the C’bean WASHINGTON (CMC) – The World Bank has appointed Tahseen Sayed Khan as the new Country Director for Caribbean countries. She will be responsible for maintaining a solid partnership with the countries to address their development and financial challenges. “It is an honour for me to be working in the Caribbean. I look forward to deepening our engagement with governments, development partners, civil society, and the private sector, to boost inclusive growth and reduce poverty in the Caribbean”. Khan, a Pakistani national, was previously Country Manager for Albania in the Europe and Central Asia region. She joined the Bank in 1997 as a social sector specialist in South Asia and has since held various positions, including as Lead Education
Tahseen Sayed Khan Specialist, Operations Adviser, and Country Manager for Nepal. Khan has a deep knowledge of country programs and a track record of strong delivery and innovation. She
holds a Master’s degree in Law and Diplomacy specializing in Development Studies from the Tufts University Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in the United States.
Friday February 10, 2017
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In call with Putin, Trump denounced Obama-era nuclear arms treaty - sources (Reuters Exclusive) - In his first call as president with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump denounced a treaty that caps U.S. and Russian deployment of nuclear warheads as a bad deal for the United States, according to two U.S. officials and one former U.S. official with knowledge of the call. When Putin raised the possibility of extending the 2010 treaty, known as New START, Trump paused to ask his aides in an aside what the treaty was, these sources said. Trump then told Putin the treaty was one of several bad deals negotiated by the Obama administration, saying that New START favored Russia. Trump also talked about his own popularity, the sources said. “The president’s conversation with President Putin is a private call between the two of them, and I’m going to leave it at that,” White House
spokesman Sean Spicer said when asked about the accounts of the call. It has not been previously reported that Trump had conveyed his doubt about New START to Putin in the hourlong call. New START gives both countries until February 2018 to reduce their deployed strategic nuclear warheads to no more than 1,550, the lowest level in decades. It also limits deployed land- and submarine-based missiles and nuclear-capable bombers. During a debate in the 2016 presidential election, Trump said Russia had “outsmarted” the United States with the treaty, which he called “START-Up.” He asserted incorrectly then that it had allowed Russia to continue to produce nuclear warheads while the United States could not. Two Democratic members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, senators Jeanne Shaheen and Edward
J. Markey, criticized Trump for deriding what they called a key nuclear arms control accord. “It’s impossible to overstate the negligence of the president of the United States not knowing basic facts about nuclear policy and arms control,” Shaheen said in a statement. “New START has unquestionably made our country safer, an opinion widely shared by national security experts on both sides of the aisle.” Daryl Kimball, the executive director of the Arms Control Association, a Washington-based advocacy group, said: “Unfortunately, Mr. Trump appears to be clueless about the value of this key nuclear risk reduction treaty and the unique dangers of nuclear weapons.” Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said he supported the treaty during his Senate confirmation hearings. During the hearings Tillerson said it was impor-
U.S. President Donald Trump (L-R) speaks by phone with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, U.S. (REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst) tant for the United States to “stay engaged with Russia, hold them accountable to commitments made under the New START and also ensure our accountability as well.” Two of the people who
U.S. appeals court upholds suspension of Trump travel ban (Reuters) - A U.S. federal appeals court yesterday unanimously upheld a temporary suspension of President Donald Trump’s order that restricted travel from seven Muslim-majority countries. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling came in a challenge to Trump’s order filed by the states of Washington and Minnesota. The U.S. Supreme Court will likely determine the case’s final outcome. Shortly after the ruling, Trump tweeted: “SEE YOU IN COURT, THE SECURITY OF OUR NATION IS AT STAKE!” The Justice Department said it was reviewing the decision and considering its options. Trump’s Jan. 27 executive order barred entry for citizens from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days and imposed a 120-day halt on all refugees, except refugees from Syria who are barred indefinitely. U.S. District Judge James Robart suspended Trump’s order last Friday. The ruling from the 9th Circuit, which follows a hearing on the case on Tuesday, does not resolve the lawsuit, but relates instead to whether Trump’s order should be suspended while litigation proceeds.
The U.S. Court of Appeals Building, home of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, in San Francisco, California. (REUTERS/Noah Berger) Two members of threejudge panel that ruled were appointed by former Democratic Presidents Jimmy Carter and Barack Obama, and one was appointed by former President George W. Bush. Either side could decide to appeal directly to the U.S. Supreme Court. Trump had said the order was vital for national safety and criticized Robart, the Seattle judge, for suspending it. Critics have called Trump’s ban discriminatory against Muslims and have questioned its value as a security measure. National security veterans, major U.S. technology companies and
law enforcement officials from more than a dozen states backed a legal effort against the ban. Ultimately the courts will have to address questions about the extent of the president’s power on matters of immigration and national security. Traditionally, judges have been extremely cautious about stepping on the executive branch’s authority in such matters, legal experts say, though some note that the implementation of this order presents unique issues. INTENSE SCRUTINY The appeals court panel subjected Trump’s order to intense scrutiny during
Tuesday’s oral argument. During the oral argument, the judges asked a government lawyer whether the Trump administration’s national security argument was backed by evidence that people from the seven countries posed a danger. Judge Richard Clifton posed equally tough questions for an attorney representing Minnesota and Washington. Clifton asked if Robart’s suspension of Trump’s policy was “overboard.” Clifton is an appointee of former President George W. Bush, a Republican like Trump. August Flentje, representing the Trump administration as special counsel for the U.S. Justice Department, told the panel on Tuesday that “Congress has expressly authorized the president to suspend entry of categories of aliens” for national security reasons. “That’s what the president did here,” he said. When the 9th Circuit asked Flentje what evidence the executive order had used to connect the seven countries affected by the order with terrorism in the United States, Flentje said the “proceedings have been moving very fast,” without giving specific examples.
described the conversation were briefed by current administration officials who read detailed notes taken during the call. One of the two was shown portions of the notes. A third source was also briefed on the call. Reuters has not reviewed the notes taken of the call, which are classified. The Kremlin did not immediately respond to requests for comment. CONCERNS OVER PHONE CALLS The phone call with Putin has added to concerns that Trump is not adequately prepared for discussions with foreign leaders. Typically, before a telephone call with a foreign
leader, a president receives a written in-depth briefing paper drafted by National Security Council staff after consultations with the relevant agencies, including the State Department, Pentagon and intelligence agencies, two former senior officials said. Just before the call, the president also usually receives an oral “pre-briefing” from his national security adviser and top subject-matter aide, they said. Trump did not receive a briefing from Russia experts with the NSC and intelligence agencies before the Putin call, two of the sources said. Reuters was unable to determine if Trump received a brief
Seven arrested robbery/murder... From page 20 number (CD 2125). The getaway car found was a new model Toyota Allion with fake licence plate number -PVV 9465. Jagdeo was murdered in cold blood. He was trailed from Skeldon after he made a drop off of phone cards at a shop. The surveillance footage from the premises showed a vehicle fitting the description of the getaway car driving slowly past Jagdeo's vehicle as he entered it. The vehicle in the footage reportedly trailed him to Adventure where he was eventually shot while the perpetrators grabbed his bag containing phone cards and cash. The men escaped on a motorcycle and later abandoned it at Friendship Village, Corentyne, where they were picked up by the Allion. A post mortem examina-
tion revealed that Jagdeo was shot three times with two bullets extracted from him. He died of shock and haemorrhage due to gunshot wounds. Commander 'B' Division Assistant Commissioner Ian Amsterdam; Sub-Ordinate Officer – in – Charge of Whim Police Station Sergeant Ibaran; Sub-Ordinate Officer – in-Charge Rose Hall Police Outpost Sergeant P. Wilburgh; and Pastor Gajraj Dindial from Cops and Faith Berbice; met with the family of the Jagdeo on Wednesday. The group assured the family members that justice will be done. Wife of the dead man, Mary Jagdeo, told this publication via telephone that her husband was a good person. “He lived for his children and wife. I travelled all over Guyana with him. He prayed a lot for his family. We never had to ask for anything.”
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PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 6471773/660-5257
Visa Application: U.S.A, C a n a da & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 6267040; 265-4535.
Register Now! Cosmetology, Nails & Wig designs courses, classes commence February 20th 2017. Call: 618-2417
INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045 B U D H R A M ’ S LANDSCAPING SERVICES: FREE ADVICE, FREE DESIGN. CALL: 656-1326 Eagle’s: Re-gas -$8,000, Washing machine repairs, Gas Stove, Plasma flat Screen & more. Call: 6972969/646-0966 Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves – Contact Nick: 6831312, 627-3206
VACANCY Glam & Co. Beauty Salon: New Market Street, GT Hair Station, available for rental. Call: 638-1106 1 Female cleaner for office in Eccles. Call: 233-2745 Pump attendant – Call: 6240033; Driver for company Call: 680-3863, Accountants Assistant, email CV to laltag@yahoo.com or Whatsapp: 680-3863 Truck drivers for 6x6 TM & Model M trucks. contact 223-5273/4 1 Driver for office in EcclesCall: 233-2745
1-2 Story building: top flat- 4 bedrooms, 1 self contained, air-conditioned, 2 apartment bottom flat, 2 bedrooms each apartment. Call: 645-9157 Aubrey Barker Road, triple lot -$27M, campbellville, DaSilva Street, Diamond Bungalow 12.5M, East$11.5M. Call GME Realty: 231-2199/ 618-7483
Cheap! Cheap! CCTV Security Surveillance Kit, 8 Channels DVR with built in Hard Drive, 8 bullet cameras – Tel: 621-4740/686-3500 1 3600 watts generator, 1 30HP motor 3PH, 1 Automatic switch 600A more electrical stuff. Call: 627-7835 1 Stembow Boat & Engine, 200HP Yamaha with Power Steering Kit. $1.6M Negotiable Call 658-5299/ 638-7748
Newly built @ Craig E.B.D land size 91X50feet; house 40X28, 3 rooms, 1 selfcontained. Call: 718-2136496/617-7691
2 -950 Caterpillar front loader, 1 clark ranger skidder, 1 Watkins 6 head molar plain, 1 LT 300 woodmizer saw. Call: 662-2078
Transported property @ Grove/Diamond, 3 bedrooms, 1 self-contained, concrete fence, price $14M. Call: 660-1353/ 216-4338
Grease Rag any amount $200 per lb, white spandex cloth 60" width -$120 per yrd. Call: 266-2700/ 681-9130
Lot 704 House & Land at Zeelugt, Brother Dam W.C.D. Call: 616-5606/ 277-0281 Transported Property at Soesdyke -$4M, Acres. Call: 615-3054 Friendship Public Road (house & land) -$22M, La Parfaite Harmonie (6 bedrooms; brand new house) -$25M. Call:233-3006/ 658-5897/651-1969
Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:629-4946 or 225-4822
One fast food supervisor, one dhalpuri maker, one dishwasher. Call: 225-0723 for more information.
Landscaping: We design, supply and implement residential and commercial indoor & outdoor Landscaping. Call 648-1821
Mining lands available for sublet in the following areas: Northwest, Kaburi, Middle Essequibo, Waini / Buckhall. Contact 629-5070 & 687-5814
Property at 14 th Avenue, Diamond, New Scheme, E.B.D -$23M negotiable – Call: 668-6940/601-1355
Advertising Production: TV commercials, press advertisements, graphic designs, website designs, www.markchand.com or 6023136
Handyman – Call: 645-0110/ 226-9001
1-2 Storey building 3 bedrooms upstairs, 2 apartments downstairs, all self-contained @ avenue B Diamond, E.B.D- Call: 658-5452
Garden Centre & Plant Shop, Valentines Plant Sale Feb 419, 10am-4pm at Plantation Schoonard – Call: 615-2346/ 628-0200 Design & Make Aluminum windows, doors, stainless rails, showcases, rolling shutters, make & install automatic doors. Call: 2336818/677-5599/659-9999 Nighthawk Motorcycle 750cc -$1,000,000 negotiable, serious enquiries only, excellent condition, used twice in Guyana. Call: 6192902
VEHICLE FOR SALE
WANTED
One Nissan Duke, PTT series, lady driven, low mileage, price negotiable. Call: 653-0018/ 666-7748 serious enquiries only.
Cook & Cashier for snackette, attractive salary. Call: 697-5387/ 677-9279
320i BMW for sale. Call: 6381106
Wanted land to buy: La Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt, Zeelugt, Tuschen. Call: 6579594
1 Hauler, 1 Dump Truck for more information. Call: 6811132
Office staff with 5 CXC subjects, must be computer literate. Also 1 MechanicTel:218-5105
Allion, Premio, Blue Bird, IST, Honda CRV, Toyota Spacio, Fielder Wagon, 212 Carina, RZ & Pitbull bus – Call: 6507501
FOR SALE Canter Rack Ball Joints Arm – Spring Bushings, Ring Gear, etc. Call: 680-3153 1 Complete set of salon equipment for sale with/ without rental contract in V/ Hoop area. Call: 676-9575/ 613-4025 Cool Tech Solution: 6754959/233-2008: New & used spare parts: fridge, freezer, washer, A/C, chill water system, ice makers. 1 Marina 40HP outboard engine with 14 Aluminum boat, 1 Yamaha 75HP outboard engine in excellent condition. Call: 643-1622
Honda CBR 929 for sale; also land at Bushy Park, E.B.E – Call: 694-4609 German Shepherd puppies for sale – Call: 682-5664 Over 300 Japanese Vehicle parts (brand new) fuel pump, steering ends, pressure plate, hub, etc -$175,000 – Call: 673-9283
CAR RENTAL
WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP REATES,SPECIAL OFFER FOR THE SEASON. CALL: 690-6494
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MIN BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPOTR & FAMILY OUTING, CHEAPESTRATE . Call: 698-7807
Canter Crank Shaft: 4D 35 – 32 – 4M40 Pulley-oil Pump – Power Steering Pump 4D – 32 Engine Block. Tel: 680-3153. Puppies for sale – Contact: 671-9136 (whatsapp), 6704228/ 267-0205 75 Yamaha outboard engine, good condition. Call: 2590302 1 Big music set, owner migrating. Call: 690-5225
One domestic to work in Trinidad, between ages of 25-35. Call 1-868- 683-1528 One driver/porter & porter. From Diamond, Grove area. Call: 216-1043, 677-6620 FULL TIME WAITER/ WAITRESS TO WORK AT AAGMAN RESTAURANT ON SHERIFF ST. CALL: 219-0158
TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)
Drivers for water truck to work on W.C.D -$50 per bottle or $26,000 weekly. Call:6848231/ 629-4236 Urgently needed lands in Herstelling, Farm, Providence, Eccles, Zeelugt, Bartica & Florida. Call:2333006/658-5897/651-1969 We buy land in Eccles, Providence, Herstelling, Farm, Uitvluft, Zeelugt, La Parfaite Harmonie, Tuschen. Best Price Pay! Call: 614-6802 Experienced roti/puri, curry cooks, counter servers, cleaners, strictly day shift. Apply @ Hack’s Halaal, 5 Commerce Street. Female models needed for photo shoots and TV commercials see model page www.markchand.com or call: 602-3136 One skilled or semi skilled gasoline mechanic, attractive salary – Contact: 231-6587, 649-1290/ 671-8122 Experienced taxi driver at Princess Hotel @ Providence. Call: 616-5419 One General Live-in Domestic to work in Mahaicony River- Call: 6559419/ 225-6571
Canter Parts: 4D - 36 – 35 4M40 Cylinder Heads, Front & Rear Springs Bundles. Tel: 680-3153.
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 677-7827, 6435122, EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM FOR SALE/RENT 2 Storey house for sale or rent $15M, rental -$20,000 each flat- Call: 672- 9428/ 684-0036 Ms Ramotar.
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
1 Front building & a 2 storey building on 1 (lot) 180 Charlotte Street Bourda W30XL120 $55M negotiable. Call: 624-7341/ 227-6817/226-5183
Mazaruni River, Tamakay landing, 5 buildings for business & storage- $8M. Call: 233-3006/ 658-5897/ 6511969
Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158
Friday February 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
DRESSMAKING Learn to sew- one step at a time at Debonair Fashion, also dressmaking. Call: 6619945/ 218-1352 or 612-3716 LEARN TO DRIVE C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj BuildingCall: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 (affordable packages).
Talented Hairstylists and Nail Technicians needed. Overseas Employment, Tortola, BVI. Call (284) 5431410 or email bvisalonowner@gmail.com. One skilled fitter/machinist, one skilled arc/acetylene welder, machine shop exposure, excellent rates. Call: 227-1830 Driver/Porter for water truck on the E.B.D- Call/Whatsapp: 682-1048 Continue on page 31
Friday February 10, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Black Bush residents protest house lots allocated on community playground A two-decade old issue at Yakusari, Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Berbice, has again reared its head with residents now protesting the allocation of house lots on a community playground. The matter is now engaging the authorities with several letters written to government and opposition officials. Last week, a resident from Black Bush who received a house lot deposited a house on the edge of the ground which has over the years been a popular spot for cricket and other activities for the farming community. According to Motiechand Lalu, Chairman for the Yakusari Carib Cricket Club, residents of Black Bush Polder want an immediate halt to leasehold titles for inside the community playground. The issue has been simmering for two decades now. It was explained that the community ground was never regularized but had remained in the records of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council as one for house lots. However, residents, as far back to the 70s, had been utilizing the land as a community ground. It was the unspoken agreement that it would remain a community area for the Black Bush Polder folks. However, in the mid2000s, allocations for a few persons were made by a regional official. That person has since left the job, accused of wrongdoings. Residents learnt that at least three persons were granted house lots on the ground, which currently has a pavilion and was once fenced. “All our lives we know this ground as one where we played cricket and did other things. We will have no other place to go now if they move ahead with plans to convert the area to house lots. We will have nowhere to play cricket,” Lalu explained. A number of residents were vocal in the objections to the house on the land. An area had been cleared to allow access for the house to be taken on to the field. According to Lalu, residents had raised the matter with former President Bharrat Jagdeo. Last week, President David Granger was written to. The matter has also been raised with the current NDC, Regional Chairman, David Armogan, and Gobin Harbhajan, the Prime Minister’s representative in East Berbice. Yesterday, Harbhajan said that a group of upset residents visited his office last week and asked for assistance to resolve the matter. “I have asked the residents to form themselves into a group and apply for it. I am aware that the NDC and Mr. Armogan are also looking into the matter.”
From page 30
LAND FOR SALE Land @ Soesdyke, 6 lots measuring 135’X175’. Call: 627-3334/696-8935, email:fcranmore@ guyanavoice.com
Black Bush Polder residents want Government to immediately cancel permissions for house lots on community ground
Tuschen front (with fence) $2.8M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.6M, Zeelugt -$2M, Uitvlugt -$2M. Call:642-1252
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Greater Georgetown Guyana: 253 DeAndrade St, N/Town, corner lot 0578 acres, 2517.76 sq. ft. - $14M negotiable. Call executrixon: 615-1100
Bottom flat house @ 25 North Road & Oronoque Street, fully furnished/ air condition/residence / business. Call: 226-7012
Uitvlugt (100ftX50ft) -$2.5M & $2M, Diamond –$6.5M, Eccles - $4.5M, La Parfaite Harmonie - $1.3M. Call: 2333006/658-5897/651-1969
Brains Construction & Rental Service: we rent all types of equipment, excavator, bobcat, trucks, tools. Call: 2190904/601-5024
La Parfaite Harmonie - $1.4M, $1.8M, $2M, Farm-$6M, Uitvlugt -$2M, Diamond $4M, Tuschen School Street -$3M, Herstelling -$5M. Call: 604-6724
Space for rent at Ashmin’s ideal for commercial, office and cafeteria use, no deposit. Call: 616-9660/ 671-1846
La Parfaite Harmonie- 1.4M, $1.8M, $2M, $3.5M, Uitvlugt -$2M, $4.5M, Herstelling $5M, Tuschen (front) -$2.5M negotiable. Call: 614-6802
Lot 14 Croal & Longden Street: 4 Storey building (infront Demico). Call: 663-1876 2 Bedrooms apartment in Eccles & rooms in Alberttown. Short & long term. Call: 225-3234
Independence Street La Grange W.B.D. Call: 646-9002/ 601-9414
3 Bedroom flat @ Supply E.B.D – Call: 648-5149/ 678-3826
30 Acres of Land at Yarrowkabra, Linden, Soesdyke Highway, price $20M negotiable. Call: 6615033/663-5524
For short term rental, 1 selfcontained 2 bedrooms apartment @ Avenue B, Diamond, E.B.D. working couple preferred- Call: 6585452
TO LET Two- 1 bedroom self-contained apartments, situated at Public Road Timehri, E.B.D – 3 minutes from the airport. Call: 664-6000 2 Bedrooms apartment close to PHG & Market -$50,000 monthly. Call: 223-9677
EDUCATIONAL Classes for slow learners in Reading, Spelling, Mathematics, and much more for children all ages. Call: 6754379 Learn at own pace Tutorials: Microsoft Excel, Power Point, Word, Publisher, CorelDraw, Photoshop. Call:602-3136 I.A.E Classes for CSEC June 2017: Mathematics, English A, Business & Science Subject for Students, Adults & repeaters. Call: 683-5742
The house that was left on the community ground last week.
Private custom house broker certificate training course; March 6 th, 2017. Register early and get 25% discount. Call: 694-8322
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Kaieteur News
Friday February 10, 2017
Friday February 10, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Over 100 dead in Brazil as police strike spurs anarchy (Reuters) - More than 100 people have been reported killed during a six-day strike by police in the Brazilian state of Espirito Santo, as hundreds of troops patrolled streets attempting to keep order with schools and businesses closed and public transport frozen. The Army mobilized airborne troops and armored vehicles yesterday to reinforce roughly 1,200 soldiers and federal police trying to contain the chaos in Espirito Santo, a coastal state north of Rio de Janeiro. Most of the violence was centered in Vitoria, the state capital and a wealthy port city ringed by golden beaches and filled with mining and petroleum companies. “We cannot establish definite motives for these killings at this time as the crisis is still ongoing,” said Gustavo Tenorio, a spokesman for the police union. “But an initial evaluation by the homicide division seems to indicate that a majority of those who have died were tied to drug trafficking or some other type of crime.” Police in Espirito Santo are demanding a pay rise amid an economic downturn that has
hammered public finances in Brazil, with many states struggling to ensure even basic health, education and security services. There are fears strikes could spread to other cash-strapped states that are not paying police and other public servants on time. Luiz Pezao, governor of Rio de Janeiro state, one of Brazil’s most indebted, has already warned federal officials he may urgently need the backing of troops or federal police soon. There are rumors of a pending police strike in Rio, a tourist hub that in three weeks will host one of the world’s biggest Carnival celebrations, which draws partygoers from around the globe. Security officials have denied any such stoppage is planned. In Espirito Santo, soldiers patrolled abandoned streets in downtown Vitoria, stopping and frisking the occasional pedestrian against shuttered storefronts. State officials said they needed hundreds more federal troops and members of an elite federal police force to help establish order and make up for the absence of some
1,800 state police who normally patrol Vitoria’s metropolitan area. “The Army’s involvement in Espirito Santo is temporary. It is here to make government negotiations possible and bring peace to the population. We are not going to replace the police,” General Eduardo Villas Boas said on Twitter. “HOSTAGES IN OUR HOMES” The state government has not released an official number for killings since police started striking on Saturday, but a spokeswoman for the union representing police told Reuters early yesterday it had registered 101 homicides. That would be more than six times the state’s average
homicide rate during the same period last year. The Globo TV network, citing security officials, reported that 200 cars were stolen in Vitoria on a single day, 10 times the daily average for the whole state. The state’s retail association said businesses have lost 90 million reais ($28.87 million) since police walked off the job. Where stores did open their doors, they were swarmed by shoppers stocking up as if preparing for a natural disaster. “Good thing the supermarket opened because I have two young children at home and the food is running out,” said salesman Vitor Paulo, weighed down with shopping bags. “It’s like we’re hostages in our own homes. We’re scared to go out.”
Representatives of the striking police, including some of the officers’ wives, met with state of-
ficials on Wednesday to demand that salaries be doubled for every category of officer.
Police officers patrol the perimeter at the scene of a fatal shooting in Vila Velha, Espirito Santo, Brazil yesterday. (REUTERS/Paulo Whitaker)
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Kaieteur News
Friday February 10, 2017
Friday February 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
Indian jurist urges Trinidad to fully adopt CCJ as final appellate court PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – A former Supreme Court Judge from India, B.N. Srikrishna has urged the twin island republic to fully adopt the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as its final court of appeal rather than the Privy Council in London. “What are you waiting for,” asked Srikrishna who made the appeal at a recent symposium hosted by the Law Association Trinidad and Tobago. The aim of the recent symposium was to encourage the government to suitably amend the Constitution to elevate the CCJ as the final court of appeal. According to Srikrishna, India replaced the UK based Privy Council as its final court of appeal by the Federal Court of India — now the Supreme Court of India — just two years after gaining independence from Britain in 1947. “Why should a sovereign state allow its former master to be the final arbitrator?” For several years, there have been strong calls for the government of Trinidad and Tobago to disqualify itself from the Privy Council. This, however, requires consensus in parliament, which is not forthcoming. Also speaking at the event was Jamaica-born Judge Patrick Robinson, now a member of the International Court of Justice at The
Hague. “Our colonial legacy has brainwashed us to believe we are not good. But the CCJ is as good as or better, and can fulfill all the needs of the region. The Privy Council must be weary of people from the Commonwealth.” Caribbean people that should not doubt “the greatness of our region”. “Why would anyone doubt that a region has produced Hugh Wooding, Norman Manley, Telford Georges, three Nobel laureates — Arthur Lewis for economics, Derek Walcott and Vidia Naipaul for literature; Elsa Goveia, CLR James, Bob Marley, Usain Bolt and Trinidad Carnival — why would anyone doubt that a region with such a tradition of culture and greatness could produce a final appellate body that meets at the highest international standards of competence, independence and impartiality,” he asked. Robinson noted that the
CCJ is accessible to Caribbean citizens, the majority of whom cannot afford the 5,000mile trip to the Privy Council, which is, “utilised by those who are relatively well off and those accused of murder who receive pro bono representation from English lawyers”. “If the Privy Council has served Trinidad and Tobago well, the CCJ will serve it better,” he said. In 2001, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries established the Trinidadbased CCJ to replace the London-based Privy Council as the region’s final court. But so far only Barbados, Belize, Dominica and Guyana have signed on to the Appellate Jurisdiction of the CCJ, even though most of the 15member grouping are signatories to the Original Jurisdiction of the CCJ that also serves as an international tribunal interpreting the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas that governs the integration movement.
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Jamaica reveals roster for Honduras friendly Kingston, Jamaica – Jamaica head coach Theodore Whitmore named Wednesday a 20-man roster for an international friendly against Honduras that will be played February 16 at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas, USA. With the exception of two changes, the squad remains largely unchanged from the one that dropped a narrow 10 decision to the host United States on February 3. Midfielders Fabian Grant and Andre Lewis were called in as replacements for Omar Holness and Alvas Powell. The selection is highlighted the inclusion of defender Kemar Lawrence, who plays for the 2016/17 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinalist New York Red Bulls. Current Jamaican champion Montego Bay United, which will be taking part in the 2017 Caribbean Club Championship (CCC) starting on March 1, is the best represented club with five players selected. One of those standouts, forward Owayne Gordon, scored two goals in the 2015 CCC. Jamaica is preparing for the
Kemar Lawrence (# 20) of Jamaica playing against Honduras. (Photo: Mexsport) 2016/17 Scotiabank CFU Men’s Caribbean Cup finals in June and the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup in J u l y . GOALKEEPERS: Andre Blake (Philadelphia Union/ USA), Ryan Thompson (no c l u b ) . DEFENDERS: Sergio Campbell (no club), Oniel Fisher (Seattle Sounders/ USA), Rosario Harriott (Harbour View FC), Kevon Lambert (Montego Bay United), Kemar Lawrence (New York Red Bulls/USA), Damion Lowe (Tampa Bay Rowdies/USA), Ladale Ritchie (Montego Bay
U n i t e d ) . MIDFIELDERS: Dwayne Ambursley (Montego Bay United), Michael Binns (Portmore United), Ewan Grandison (Portmore United), Fabian Grant (Harbour View), Andre Lewis (Portland Timbers 2/USA), Je-Vaughn Watson (New England Revol u t i o n ) . FORWARDS: Cory Burke (Bethlehem Steel FC/USA), Jourdaine Fletcher (Montego Bay United), Owayne Gordon (Montego Bay United), Shamar Nicholson (Boys’ Town), Romario Williams (Atlanta United FC/USA). (CONCACAF)
Vijay, Kohli hundreds headline India’s... (From page 33) lobbed the ball back to Mehedi, the bowler. With the ball travelling slowly to him, Mehedi panicked and failed to collect the throw cleanly. India enjoyed these breaks in the field but the runs began to flow only after lunch. Vijay drove fluently through
Friday February 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
the covers and launched Shakib straight back over his head. Pujara brought out his staple shots - the bottomhanded drive and late-cut and looked increasingly confident against the old ball on a slow track. The three spinners bowled 15 consecutive overs between them in the
second session and conceded 54 runs. Overall, the second session yielded 120 runs in 31 overs. When Pujara drove Mehedi straight down the ground for four in the 51st over, he broke the record for most runs in an Indian firstclass season, surpassing Chandu Borde’s tally of 1604 in 1964-65. The joy, though, was short-lived as he misread the next delivery - a straight ball from Mehedi - and edged behind, Mushfiqur diving to his ri g h t t h i s t i m e a n d pouching it via a ricochet off the pad. Kohli announced himself with authoritative boundaries, while Vijay got to his ninth Test hundred before being bowled around his legs in the sixth over after tea. Ajinkya Rahane, picked over Karun Nair, seemed comfortable while moving to 45 off 60 balls in an unbroken 122-run stand with Kohli. Bangladesh, though, were far from comfortable: the fumbles continued in the field and they even wasted a review. In the 62nd over, Taijul Isam tossed one up on middle and leg, and Kohli middled his forward defensive. Taijul and the close-in fielders reckoned it was pad first, only for the replays to throw up how embarrassing Bangladesh’s decision to review the on-field not-out call was. The second new ball wasn’t spared either, and Kohli went onto middle everything. (ESPNcricinfo)
Hetymer, Fudadin powers Jaguars to 8-wkt... (From page 38) the UWI Dorms to the delight of the few students in the Floyd Reifer Balcony. Hetymer blasted Allen out of the large ground but with the score at 142, Fudadin, who reached his 10th fifty from 61 balls with four fours and two sixes, was taken at long-on, Zafar making the break through. Leon Johnson, who was aiming to join Clive Lloyd and Roger Harper to win the ‘double’ in the same year when the tournament commenced, joined Hetymer who threw away what would have been a maiden ton when cut Dutta to Zafar at point to leave with the score 158-2; but Johnson (13) and Barnwell (3) took the Jaguars to an easy win. Earlier, Akeem Dodson, who played for Malteenoes in Guyana, hit Steven Jacobs to mid-on at 7-1 before Kamau Leverock (5) stroked Wintz for four but Wintz got the last laugh when the left-hander
was bowled at 12-2 as ICC Americas started badly in overcast conditions. Kumar, who scored a halfcentury on Tuesday, smashed Wintz for four and along with Amsterdam, who drove Jacobs to extra cover boundary, embarked on ‘operation rebuild’, the 50 was posted in the 15 over off 94 balls with the 50 partnership coming up three overs later. Kumar, who faced 54 balls and reached the boundary twice in his 31, was trapped LBW by Bishoo at 67-3 and six runs later Srimantha Wijeyeratne (2) was LBW to Bishoo. At 74, the left-handed Amsterdam (25) edged a googlie from Bishoo to Leon Johnson at slip after facing 43 balls and hitting two fours. Timroy Allen, one of three batsmen who made fifties in the historic win against CCC, was then run out for one as ICC Americas lost four wickets for nine runs to slump to
76-6. Zafar joined Dutta, who played for the Patriots in CPL for the last two years, crashed Wintz for four before Zafar caressed him past midoff for a boundary as the seventh wicket partnership was starting to frustrate the Jaguars. Zafar dumped Permaul for six to post the 50 stand off 93 balls before he edged the leftarm spinner to the Keeper after hitting a four and a six in a top score of 36 from 63 balls. Dutta hammered Barnwell for four to bring up the 150 in 44th over before Reifer got rid of Timil Patel (7) and Dutta who made 38 from 77 balls with two fours and Cecil Pervez (2) in the space of eight runs to end the innings. ICC Americas, without batsman Amir Babar who returned to the US, will play their final game against Jamaica tomorrow while the Jaguars are set to return home on Sunday.
Friday February 10 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Better still, take your mate and let them foot the bill. Secret affairs will only lead to deception. Secret affairs may be tempting, but keep in mind that they will damage your reputation if you decide to indulge. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Don't let your personal problems interfere with your professional responsibilities. You may come down with minor infections if you have allowed yourself to get rundown. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Rest and relaxation may be required; minor health problems will prevail if you don't watch your diet. Your input into their activities will help bring you closer together. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Try to control your irritability if you're experiencing emotional problems with your partner. Your ability to converse with charm will entice someone you may have had an interest in for some time now. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) This will not be the day to have minor surgery. Sign up for seminars that will expand your business awareness. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Don't let someone you work with put words in your mouth. You will have no trouble getting things to fall into place. Get involved in
groups and organizations that are of a distinguished nature. LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Join a choir or a drama club. You may be considering moving to larger quarters. Your charm will be captivating. Y SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You are best to stick to basics. Work on getting ahead by picking up added skills. Abrupt changes in your home may send you for a loop. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) You can solidify your relationship if you plan a special evening with your mate. Get involved in groups and organizations that are of a distinguished nature. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Enjoy the company of relatives today. Try to get every one involved; it will help bring you closer together. Residential moves will be favorable. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Losses are evident. Organization will be the key to avoiding discord and family feuds. You can make money if you put your mind to it. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Drastic changes regarding your personal attitude are evident. Visit friends or relatives you rarely see. Disappointments regarding partners will be subject to the way you react to their personal comments.
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Friday February 10, 2017
Vijay, Kohli hundreds headline India’s dominance
Virat Kohli and M Vijay share a light moment after tea break was announced ©AFP.
M Vijay, who was reprieved on 35, and his captain Virat Kohli punished Bangladesh with contrasting centuries, which led India to 356 for 3 on the first day in Hyderabad. Vijay combined with Cheteshwar Pujara, who was handed a life on 11, in a 178-run partnership, before Kohli seamlessly took charge of the innings. Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim termed his s i d e ’s f i r s t b i l a t e r a l international in India as a
STAG Futsal Clash of the Champions
Linden/Georgetown rivalry to light up Gymnasium tomorrow night
“great moment”; he might have later felt it was a wild roller-coaster ride. At the end of the day, in which Bangladesh’s fielding went from bad to worse, they were left nauseous and with a teasing thought: what might have been? Pujara and Vijay, India’s most prolific pair in Test cricket in the last decade, extended their dominance on Thursday with another century partnership, their fifth this home season and eighth overall. Kohli looked like he was on autopilot right from the moment he arrived, 30 minutes before tea. He began with two fours off his first three balls, the second of which was punched fiercely to the long-off boundary. He brought up his fifty off 70 balls at the end of the 73rd over, then brought up his next fifty off 60 balls with a
signature whiplash to the midwicket boundary. Kohli now has a Test hundred against every opposition he has played against (he has not played against Pakistan and Zimbabwe). Bangladesh, though, had enjoyed the perfect start to their first bilateral international in India with fast bowler Taskin Ahmed removing KL Rahul in the first over. Rahul chased a full, wide ball - wider than a set of stumps outside off and dragged it back onto the stumps. Taskin and Kamrul Islam Rabbi then found movement in the air and off the seam, and took regular trips past the edges. They also sent down rising short balls, which forced Vijay and Pujara to throw their gloves in front of their faces. At the end of five overs, India had only played four scoring shots. The first
boundary arrived in the next over when Pujara uncharacteristically drove away from the body and sent an outside edge flying to his right of gully. Four balls later, Pujara watched a leading edge drop in front of cover. About three overs later, Kamrul drew an outside edge from Pujara, which dropped well in front of Shakib Al Hasan at first slip. Mushfiqur could possibly have caught it had he dived to his right, but he was unmoved. Then, in the 15th over, Mehedi Hasan Miraz produced an outside edge each from Pujara and Vijay, which flew to the right of Shakib at slip. Vijay’s major reprieve came when he and Pujara found themselves at the same end. Kamrul put in the dive at square leg to create the run-out chance, and (Continued on page 32)
Usain Bolt’s All-Stars win second Nitro Athletics event
Stag Brand Manager Lindon Henry (right) hands over the cheque to New Era’s Aubrey Major Jnr. (left) and Eyefull’s Frank Parris (2nd right). The rivalry between Georgetown and Linden in the sports arena will be rekindled tomorrow night at the National Gymnasium when the New Era and Eyefull Entertainment groups Stag sponsored Futsal Clash of the Champions competition kicks off. Matches will feature the best teams in this version of the game in Linden and the City facing off for bragging rights whilst staking a claim to be part of the $400,000 in cash that is at stake in the two-night faceoff. On Wednesday last, Stag Brand Manager Lindon Henry handed over the sponsorship cheque to New Era Entertainment CoDirector Aubrey Major Jnr.
in the presence of Head of Eyefull Entertainment Head, Frank ‘English’ Parris. Henry congratulated the organisers for the initiative of bringing together the best teams in the two areas to compete for bragging rights. Both groups offered thanks to Stag for their continued support for football and aiding in the positive development of the nation’s youths. The main attraction tomorrow night will be the clash between Sparta Boss and Hustlers, the respective champions in the City and Linden. Opening action at 18:30hrs brings together Bent Street and Tucville which would be followed by a match between Gold is Money and Tiger Bay while Broad Street will come up
against Leopold Street. An exhibition match will feature non-traditional players but who are experts in the sport of dominoes. They have decided that they too have some football skills thus the challenge on the Futsal pitch. This clash will see Mix Up Dominoes team throwing down the gauntlet to their counterparts from Spartans. On Saturday February 18th, action will switch to the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Court where Hustlers and Sparta Boss will go head to head again in the feature match of the night. This clash will be preceded at 19:00hrs with a game between Magic Stars and Good Fellas after which Town Cars will meet Linden Bus.
Usain Bolt’s All-Stars won the second day of the Nitro Athletics amid controversy in Melbourne. Australia needed to finish the 4x100m relay to take victory, but they were disqualified after a botched handover between Jack Hale and Fabrice Lapierre. They misjudged the change from the second to the third leg and, after initial confusion, Australia were given a score of -10 for the mixed event. Bolt’s All-Stars won the relay to finish on
930 to Australia’s 895. A refereeing error initially awarded Australia the top ranking for the night. Eight-time Olympic champion Bolt, who ran the third leg of the relay, told officials he was going to protest, before the result was corrected. The Jamaican, in his farewell season, has only competed in the relays in the opening two nights of the series, but admitted he might run in the 150m tomlorrow. ”I’ll probably have to double up depending on how
this meeting goes,” he said. “I’m not in the best of shape, but the more I run, the better I feel. I’m just taking it a month at a time, trying to enjoy that it’s my last season.” Victory was the AllStars’ second in the threeevent series, having also won Saturday’s opener. England are fourth in the table, ahead of New Zealand and Japan. IAAF President Lord Coe has said Nitro A t h l e t i c s w i l l “revolutionise” the sport. (BBCsport)
Bolt, alongside his relay team of (l-r) Natasha Morrison, Asafa Powell and Jenna Prandini.
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Friday February 10, 2017
RHTY&SC and NSC to host Day of Sports MMA-ADA donate trophies Director of Sport Mr. Christopher Jones and the National Sports Commission (NSC) has joined forces with the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, M.S to host a Community Day of Sports in the Ancient County of Berbice. This event is scheduled for the Area ‘H’ Ground in Rose Hall Town on Sunday March 5, next and forms part of the clubs programme to celebrate Guyana’s 47th Republic anniversary whilst promoting the Club’s Say No/Say Yes message to youths in Berbice. The NSC would be hosting ten such events in each of the regions across Guyana with the RHTY&SC event being the first. Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the Community Day of Sports would include cricket athletics, volleyball, basketball and football.
The 5/5 cricket tournament attracts eight teams including Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘A’ and ‘B’, Rose Hall Canje, Young & Restless, No 19 Kennard Memorial, Courtland, Tamarind Root (Hampshire) and Fyrish. The volleyball tournament which has a total of four female and six male teams, would be organised by National Coach Levi Nedd while the basketball competition would see four teams vying for top honours while six teams would battle each other for the top prize in the football tournament. Promising athletes would also be given the opportunity to participate in several races including 100m, 200m, 400m, 4 x 100m Relay and 800m for both male and females. Foster disclosed that the host club has established a
Director of Sports Christopher Jones hands over cheque to RHTY&SC Hilbert Foster in presence of Sohan Harry and Mark Papannah.
working committee headed by himself including Mark Papannah and Sohan Harry to organise the Day of Sports. The club would also use the opportunity to promote its highly successful Say No
West Side Guinness resumes this evening at Pouderoyen
to Drugs, Alcohol, Suicide, Crime and Yes to Life, Education and Sports campaigns. The NSC’s contribution amounts to $400,000 while the club would be investing some of its own funds to make sure that the event is successful. Assistant Director of Sports Mr. Brian Smith stated that the NSC would be hosting Community Day of Sports on an annual basis in every region of Guyana in an
effort to promote sports at the grassroots level. Smith also disclosed that s t a ff m e m b e r s o f t h e Commission would be actively involved in assisting the club in making sure that the event is successful. He expressed confidence that the Day of Sports would not only be well organised but would also achieve its objectives. Meanwhile, the Management of the
Mahaica/Mahicony/Abar y A g r i c u l t u r a l Development Authority (MMA – ADA) on Monday last became the latest entity to come on board to support the clubs quest to complete 500 programmes/activities this year. The authority donated 24 trophies that would be used as prizes for various educational and sporting tournaments in the next three months.
Digicel launches Triple Treat Softball Cricket Competition -Duck Curry, Stage Show a part of April 1 Finals
Part of the action in this year’s West Demerara/East Bank Demerara zone Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition. Play in the 3rd Annual Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ West Demerara/East Bank Demerara zone resumes this evening with the commencement of the Group Stage, at the Pouderoyen Tarmac. In the opening encounter at 19:00hrs, West Side Ballers tackles Brothers United and this will be followed by the clash between the Money Team and Jetty from 19:30hrs. ESPN then take on Harmony
Ballers from 20:00hrs, before Tajoe’s Admiral United opposes De Kinderen. Patentia Street Ballers entertains Agricola at 21:00hrs and this game precedes the Young Ballers and Goal Getters encounter from 21:30hrs. At 22:00hrs, Hustlers and Golden Warriors square off, while defending champion Showstoppers clash with Good Intent AllStars from 22:30hrs.
The final game pits Hustlers versus Patentia Street Ballers. At the end of the group stage, the top two finishers will advance to the quarterfinals. The winning team will take home $450,000, the championship trophy and a spot in the National Championship, while second, third and fourth placed teams collect $150,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively.
As its 10th Anniversary Celebrations of telecommunication service to Guyana continue, Digicel has launched its Triple Treat Softball and Duck Curry Competition, which is scheduled to bowl off on March 5 and conclude on April 1 with three events. D i g i c e l ’ s Communications Manager, Vidya Sanichara told the media at the launch of the events yesterday at Digicel Headquarters, Kingston, that it will be one of the c o m p a n y ’s “ s i g n a t u r e events countrywide”. It is the second edition of the event. The Final of the Softball Cricket on April 1 will be held at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground. Apart from Softball Cricket, there will also be Duck
Curry competition and Stage Show that gives the event three components on one day. “It is to create an ideal atmosphere for families,” Sanichara said. The competition will bowl off at the Perseverance Beach Ground on March 5. Registration begins today, concludes on February 28 and is expected to secure 24 teams for the Softball Cricket Competition. Digicel’s Retail Sales Manager, Richard Das took the opportunity to invite all the teams, which had participated last year, to register again to compete. He said that following the March 5 bowl-off of the tournament, the competition continues on every weekend leading up to the Finals at the Anna Regina Ground.
Das informed that draw for the fixtures will be held on March 4 at the Speed Talk Mobile, which is the Anna Regina Digicel Store. The softball cricket competition will be held under the auspices of the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA). President of that association, Ramchand Ragbeer said that he was pleased to be associated with Digicel and the residents of the Essequibo Coast. Ragbeer said that last year was a huge success for the tournament and this year promises to be even bigger with the Finals under floodlights once again. Khalid Baksh also represented the GFSCA at t h e l a u n c h y e s t e r d a y. (Edison Jefford)
Kaieteur News
Friday February 10, 2017
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Scotiabank and GFF launch historic Academy Training Centres Nine associations to benefit
Members of the GFF Executive and staff, NSC, Area Associations and Scotiabank share a moment following the ceremony. By Zaheer Mohamed In order to produce and sustain quality sports persons at the highest level, much attention much be placed at the Grassroots level, where it all starts. It is also of paramount importance to have a well structured programme in place for any institution to bear fruits. Cognisant of the aforementioned, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) in partnership with Scotiabank yesterday launched their historic Academy Training Centres (ATC) at the Umana Yana, Kingston. The programme is designed to identify and develop the skills of the best players from across country from which the various national teams will be selected. It is expected to put Guyana on the forefront of youth development in the Caribbean. The first set of 13 ATC’s will be established across the
G F F ’s n i n e m e m b e r s associations; Bartica (1), Berbice (2), East Bank Demerara (1), East Coast D e m e r a r a ( 1 ) , We s t Demerara (1), Essequibo (1), Georgetown (1), Rupununi (4) and Upper Demerara (1). The ATC’s will offer at least five aged specific, professional training sessions per week for boys and girls aged 5-11, U13 boys’ academy, U15 boys’ a c a d e m y, U 1 7 b o y s ’ academy and U17 girls’ academy with each youth group catering for a maximum of 16 players at a time. The programme which also includes nutrition, behavior, fitness and sports psychology, will allow for regular assessment and rotation of players though new intake. The vision of the academy includes giving more youth players the opportunity to develop their skills, increase the talent pool from which the national
youth teams will be selected, create a clear pathway for players progression and improve playing standards. Nine full time GFF Technical Development Officers and fourteen parttime Youth Development Coaches will be in charge in each of the GFF nine member associations. They will be tasked with scouting for new talent, coaching young players and improving the talent pool for national team selection, working with members associations to support programmes and youth competitions and recruiting coaches and referees in their region. Speaking at the l a u n c h i n g c e r e m o n y, President of the GFF Wayne Forde said the launch of this programme is yet another compelling example of how things have changed for the better in just one year. ”In our humble expectation, Guyana can
Cameron and Nanthan only nominees St. John’s, Antigua Current President and Vice President of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), Dave Cameron and Emmanuel Nanthan will be the only candidates for the election, due on Saturday, March 4. The Corporate Secretary, Verlyn Faustin, confirmed that Cameron and Nanthan were the only two nominees received for the posts of President and Vice President respectively. Both Cameron and Nanthan have already served two year terms in the respective p o s i t i o n s . The posts will be ratified at
the Annual General Meeting (AGM) also due on the same day. The election and AGM are scheduled for Antigua. The President’s Report and the Audit Risk and Compliance Report (ARCC) will be received at the one-day meeting. The ARCC Report will be an update on the risk and compliance environment of the WICB. The full meeting will consist of territorial board stakeholders and special members. The Directors of the Board have been invited to attend the AGM. The special members are the We s t I n d i e s U m p i r e s
Association, West Indies Players Association, CARICOM, Association of Colleges and Tertiary Institutions, Association of Caribbean Media Workers, and the Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce. The meeting will be streamed live on www.windiescricket.com and is scheduled for a 9:00 am start. The meeting falls on the day between the first two one-day-internationals (ODI) between the West Indies and England, March 3 & 5 in Antigua. The third ODI is scheduled for Barbados March 9.
finally bear witness to an executive committee that is fully focused on developing football by implementing the necessary reforms that will change the way the game is run locally,” he posited. ”The nationwide GFF Scotiabank academy training centres will play a major part our plan to transform football in Guyana. This is a special moment for us all after months of preparation,” he noted. Forde thanked Technical Director Ian Green and his team for their efforts and commitment to delivering real positive change. He also expressed gratitude to Scotiabank stating that they are honoured to be working with the entity for the development of the sport. “It’s important to the GFF as we restore creditably and stability that we have the support of highly respected international brand such as Scotiabank which speaks volumes of the direction we are moving the sport in. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership as we work hand in hand for the growth of the sport,” he said. The GFF head pointed out that this groundbreaking declaration is a true game changer for the sport whereas a professional network of GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centres will operate alongside our Member Associations to develop the game in a coordinated way. He stated that with this programme, the GFF is putting the nation in the vanguard of youth football development in the Caribbean – where it belongs. Forde urged the new Technical Development
O f f i c e r s a n d Yo u t h Development Coaches to embrace their new roles with passion and commitment. “You each have an exciting journey ahead of you as you help us deliver this programme. We know the boys and girls in your respective regions, who share your passion for football, will thrive and grow under your guidance. It is an exciting time for football and it starts with you – inspiring our young people to achieve their dreams” he explained. Forde noted that this heavy focus on youth development is the kind of strategy that has produced the best teams and players in the most successful Football nations across the globe. He commended the member associations for their hard work over the years which have laid the foundation for the future. “Talent that has arguably been neglected for far too long has been accessed through support from the Ministry for Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs. I am pleased to say that four of our 13 youth academy centres will focus on Hinterland communities. As you know, three boys from these communities recently made the final cut for the recent U-15 internationals,” he informed. ”Football belongs to everybody in Guyana and that diversity enriches us all. We are grateful for the faith that the private sector, the Government and our Member Associations have shown in us as we reform football from top to bottom,” Forde related. He thanked FIFA and CONCACAF for their support.
Marketing Manager of Scotiabank Jennifer Cipriani said Scotiabank enjoys giving back to the community through sponsorships and their community programme. “Recently we have extended our sponsorship focus through our partnerships with COCCACAF and the CFU tournament. Our GFF partnership is therefore a natural alignment with our regional sponsorship strategy,” she lamented. She further stated that through the Academy they hope to give boys and girls the opportunity to realise their dream of a career in football and build a national team that will be a force to reckon with. She stated that they want the youths to focus on education which is why they have committed a sum of $600,000 towards bursary awards. She thanked the GFF for the opportunity to partner with the programme. The Technical Development Officers and Yo u t h D e v e l o p m e n t Coaches will undergo a twoday induction and training courses on the 10th and 11th of February. This will complement the technical training conducted in December 2016. Scotiabank, GFF and FIFA are providing financial support for the programme. Also present at yesterday’s launch were Director of Sport Christopher Jones and Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Ivan Persaud who complimented both the GFF and Scotiabank on their partnership which will set the foundation for the game to take off in Guyana.
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Friday February 10, 2017
Team Guyana ready for Barbados International Beach Soccer Showcase Head Coach of the Golden Jaguars Beach Soccer team Abdullah Hamid sayd his charges are rearing and ready for their first match today against Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors, the opening game of the Barbados International Beach Soccer Showcase set for Brandon’s Beach, St. Michael’s from 19:00hrs. The team which arrived in the island yesterday morning was given a booster ahead of today’s double fixture – second game at 21:30hrs against England – when they were visited by G u y a n e s e International Superstar Eddy Grant who lives in the Land of the Flying Fish. Hamid said it was indeed an honour to meet with Grant who offered words of encouragement to the team as he has done over
t h e y e a r s . ”These warm-up matches in Barbados will allow us the chance to assess where we are at in terms of our strengths and weaknesses as we go forward.” Once they see where the team’s at, Hamid said that they would have time to put things together given the fact that following the conclusion of the Showcase on Sunday, they will spend a few more days on the island before leaving for the Bahamas next Saturday. On the second nigh of a c t i o n , S a t u r d a y, Guyana will face off with the host nation in the curtain raiser at 19:00hrs and their final game will be on Sunday against Antigua and Barbuda at 20:15hrs. The team is fully sponsored by the Guyana Football Federation.
Guyana’s Beach Soccer team with Guyanese Legend, Eddy Grant, standing 4th left.
Schools receive balls for Milo preparations -Four matches slated for tomorrow Defending champs Chase Academic Foundation headlines a list of thirty-two teams that will contest this year’s Milo 18 and Under Schools Football Competition which kicks off tomorrow, at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta A v e n u e . Yesterday, during a simple ceremony that was conducted at the Ministry’s ground, participating schools received one ball, water bottles and jerseys courtesy of the Ministry of Public Health and organisers Petra Organisation. In attendance at the occasion was Dr. Troy Sagan, Petra’s Co-Director Troy Mendonca, Public Health representative Joy Gravesande, students and teachers of participating schools. Dr. Sagan, who represented the Ministry of Public Health in opening remarks spoke of pleased the Ministry was to be associated with the
Representatives of the Ministry of Public Health and organisers Petra Organisation with students of participating schools following the handing over of balls yesterday. tournament once again, before disclosing the theme for this year’s competition which according to him was ‘I stand against Violence’. According to Dr. Sagan, the aspiration of his entity is to b r e a k t h e s c o u rg e o f violence and to do that he added requires the input of
the wider society. Dr. Sagan also spoke of the effect of chronic diseases and underlined the importance of students being involved in physical activities. Mendonca in his presentation gave an outline of the tournament, before emphasising the need for
schools to be honest with the age of eligibility rule. Meanwhile, the schools confirmed are: Bishop’s High, Brickdam, Carmel, Central High, Charlestown, Chase Academy, Christ Church, Cummings Lodge, Dolphin, East Ruimveldt, Freeburg, Houston,
Kingston, Lodge, Mae’s, Morgan’s Learning Centre, North Georgetown, North R u i m v e l d t , Q u e e n ’s College, Queenstown, Richard Ishmael, School of the Nations, Sir Leon Lessons, South Ruimveldt, St. John’s, St. Winefride, St. Rose’s, St. George’s, St.
Mary’s, Tucville, Tutorial and St. Joseph’s. The fixtures for opening day are: Bishop’s High versus St. Winefride; St. Rose’s vs. Houston; North Ruimveldt vs. St. Joseph’s and Chase Academic Foundation vs. Freeburg. Kick off time is11:00hrs.
Kaieteur News
Friday February 10, 2017
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2nd Annual Limacol Football Competition
Tigers claw back from 2-0 deficit to beat Uitvlugt; another double-header on today at GFC Already favoured to go all the way, Western Tigers produced another inspiring performance, clawing their way back from a 2-0 deficit to secure a 3-2 victory over Uitvlugt on Wednesday evening, at the GFC ground. Palying in the feature game of the 2nd Annual Limacol Football Competition, the West Rimveldt-based side, who recently carted off the Stag Beer Nations Cup Tournament, tore shreds in the Uitvlugt defence to erase first half deficit en route to registering their third win in as many matches and remain strong favourites to claim a second title in successive tournaments. After falling behind through strikes from Trayon Bobb and Jamal Harvey in the 15th and 19th minute respectively, the Georgetown juggernauts went to work two minutes into added on time in the opening period with Andrew Murray Jr. taking full advantage of poor marking to head in a Devon Millington free-kick. It meant that they went to the break trailing 1-2 and all to play for in the final stanza. Eight minutes after the resumption, Linden Picketts gained the equaliser in similar fashion to that of Murray, once again taking advantage of another defensive lapse to head past the goalkeeper. Picketts should have given Tigers the lead, but his powerfully struck header crashed on to the crossbar and landed into safety. Bobb too was guilty of squandering an opportunity to regain the lead, but his weak shot went straight at the goalkeeper, who made an easy save from a dangerous one on one situation to leave the showdown level.
H i s b r o t h e r, S e o n , maintained squandermania when his volley from a header sailed wide of the left upright as the game approached full time. The signal for injury time came and four minutes into, Jumane Somerset delivered a scorching header from inside the box to preserve Tigers unbeaten record and confirm their place in the next phase. Earlier, Trayon Bobb had given Uitvlugt the lead in the 15th minute through a wonderful curling free-kick taken from the top of the box that beat the keeper all ends up. Harvey then made it 2-0 four minutes later, skipping past his marker, before, firing a fierce right footer past the advancing goalkeeper. In the opening encounter, Grove Hi-Tech and Northern Rangers tussled to a 1-1 draw with Denzel Crawford netting in the 45th+2 minutes for the former; a fierce left footed shot, while Tefon Daly’s 77th minute strike ensured that the Rangers shared the points. The result meant that Grove closed the group stage on four points, while the Rangers remained cellar dwellers on two points. Action resumes today with another doubleheader at the same venue. At 18:30hrs, Santos tackles Pouderoyen in a must win for either team, while Riddim Squad will have to do the same in their clash against the Guyana Police Force at 20:30hrs. In Wednesday night’s full results: Game-1 Grove Hi-Tech-1 vs Northern Rangers-1. Grove scorer Denzel Crawford-45th+2; Northern Rangers scorer Tefon Daly-77th. Yellow Cards, Lloyd Matthews69th-Grove.
Game-2 Western Tigers3 vs Uitvlugt-2. Western scorers - Andrew Murray Jr.45th+2, Linden Pickett53rd, Jumane Somerset90th+4. Uitvlugt scorers Trayon Bobb-15th, Jamal Harvey-19th. Yellow Cards - Randolph Wa g n e r - 5 6 t h - We s t e r n , Shane Morris-90th+3Western, Jamal Harvey90th+3-Uitvlugt.
Action in the clash between Western Tigers and Uitvlugt on Wednesday night, at the GFC ground.
Kaieteur News
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Friday February 10, 2017
Hetymer, Fudadin powers Jaguars to 8-wkt win By Sean Devers in Barbados in association with Bounty Supermarket, Vnet Communications, Life Time Reality and M i n g ’s P ro d u c t s & Services A pugnacious 94 by West Indies U-19 Captain Shemron Heytmer and a carefully constructed 54
from Assad Fudadin saw Guyana Jaguars crush ICC Americas by eight wickets in their last match in the 2017 Regional Super50 tournament yesterday at 3Ws Oval to finish zone ‘B’ on 18 points in third position behind Barbados and Jamaica, who have both qualified for next week’s semi-finals in Antigua. In a game of only academic interest, a 54-run third wicket stand between
Skipper Nitish Kumar (31) and Guyanese born American Alex Amsterdam (25) and 67 for the seventh wicket between Saad Bin Zafar (36) and Nikhil Dutta (38), saw ICC Americas being bowled out for 170 in 48.1 overs. West Indies leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo (3-28) and left-arm seamer Raymon Reifer (3-15) did the damage for the Jaguars, who reached 171-2 in 28.1 overs. Man-of-
the-match Hetymer, who made 94 from 76 balls decorated with 10 fours and four sixes and Fudadin, with 54 from 66 balls with four fours and two sixes, led the way for Jaguars with a 142 opening partnership. Guyana rested Shiv Chanderpaul, Rajendra Chandrika and Ronsford Beaton. Shemron Hetymer got off the mark with consecutive boundaries
Pervez while Fudadin cut Singh delightfully behind point to get his innings going. Hetymer set the place on fire with several audacious shots. The left-handed teenager clobbered Pervez for six and edged him for next ball before pulling Allen for boundaries when he bowled and effortlessly drove him all along the ground past mid-on for the third successive four in the over and the second fifty opening stand by the Jaguars in the tournament which took 48 balls with Hetymer hitting seven of the eight fours and
the only six in the partnership. Dutta started with a maiden to Fudadin who struck Kumar for back-toback straight boundaries as he too joined in the runs spree. Fudadin was dropped by the keeper off Dutta on 30 with the score at 82 while Heytmer reached his fifty from 49 balls with seven fours and a six. Fudadin galloped into the 40s with consecutive sixes off Dutta and the 100 stand was posted 17.6 overs. Heytmer launched into Patel clobbering a free-hit towards (Continued on page 32)
Shemron Hetymer was on fire yesterday before missing out on his maiden ton.
Assad Fudadin punches through the covers during his 54 (Sean Devers photo)
Kaieteur News
Friday February 10, 2017
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Vincente drops 14 3s for 54 points in Ravens’ 110-47 mauling of Eagles Ravens guard, Dominic Vincente went berserk from beyond the three-point arc Wednesday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, dropping 14 three-point jumpers for 54 points that led his Club to a 110-
47 rout of Eagles. Forward Lawrence De Costa scored 19 points and grabbed nine rebounds as Ryan Gullen scored 14 points with 13 rebounds on Day 10 of Georgetown
Dominic Vincente
Amateur Basketball Association ‘League of Champions’. For Eagles, Kevin Higgins scored 12 points and 10 rebounds while Louis James and Courtney Taylor scored
eight points each. In the Under-23 contest, Plaisance Guardians defeated Ravens 92-62 with Anton Fileen scoring 15 points with 10 steals while Terrence Daniels scored 14
and grabbed nine rebounds and Nigel Bowen touched in 14. Akeem Crandon also supported with 13 points and 15 rebounds and Delroy Critchlow scored 13 points. Sabastian Luke tipped in
16 and Anfernee Jervis 11 points for Ravens. Akeem Morrison had 10 points and 13 rebounds while Murtland Ward added 10 points and grabbed nine rebounds also for Ravens.
t r o Sp
Scotiabank and GFF launch historic Academy Training Centres Nine associations to benefit
The historic unveiling of the ATC Insignia being done by GFF President Wayne Forde and Scotiabank Marketing Manager Jennifer Cipriani in the presence of GFF TD Ian Greenwood (right) and NSC Chairman, Ivan Persaud.
Digicel launches Triple Treat Softball Cricket Competition -Duck Curry, Stage Show a part of April 1 Finals
Digicel’s Officials including Communications Manager, Vidya Sanichara (second, left), Richard Das (on her left), Louanna Abrams (second, right), among other Digicel and GFSCA Officials, at the Launch yesterday.
Hetymer, Fudadin powers Jaguars to 8-wkt win 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