Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Does the govt really want to pass the antimoney laundering Bill? The gathering outside the National Assembly yesterday afternoon is symbolic of the state of the local politics. Two years ago when the parliamentary opposition voted to slash the budget for National Communications Network and the Government Information Agency the staff of these entities mounted protests along Brickdam along the route leading to the National Assembly. From the placards one would have expected that these people were all about to lose their jobs. Of course, during the protest, they said that they all had mortgages to pay and that they were now being reduced to paupers, courtesy of the parliamentary opposition. That was only the beginning. The government then expanded on the protest; it took its campaign to the airwaves via radio and television. By the time that campaign ended many had expected to see GINA and NCN being shut down. It was a case of overkill. Two years later, GINA and NCN have not ceased operation. In fact for two years they operated on a single Guyana dollar, each. No staff member lost his or her job and pretty soon staff from those two entities had been reduced to objects of ridicule. People accused them of grandstanding and of exaggerating a situation. Yesterday was another interesting time when it came to protests. Obviously mobilised by the government, these people bore placards that sought to beseech the parliamentary opposition to vote for the passage of the anti-money laundering Bill. Of course, they argued that with Guyana being blacklisted its economic future would be bleak. Businesses would collapse and Guyanese would suffer in the worst possible way. But by the end of the day the Bill was not debated and the protesters might have conducted an exercise in futility. The Bill was never presented for the vote on Monday. There are special conditions for Bills to be submitted to the National Assembly. Up to Monday the Bill was still being discussed and amendments made. By the time the Bill is ready for the House it is likely that the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force would have met. That meeting is scheduled for Thursday. Assuming that the Bill is not tendered by then, what would that protest have to do with the parliamentary opposition? Of interest is the fact that all this idea of protest over the anti-money laundering Bill need not have happened. One of the parliamentary opposition, the Alliance For Change, simply asked for the Public Procurement Commission as a trade off. The government is refusing. Surely the government does want the anti-money laundering Bill. The Public Procurement Commission would regulate the contractors who do slipshod work and are more concerned with raiding the public treasury. The main opposition party recognised that the government is bent on control and so wanted the Finance Minister to be removed from the control of the Finance Intelligence Unit. With such power the Minister, as one of his colleagues once did, arrested and locked up a school teacher and a Muslim scholar on the ground that the man was a terrorist. The visiting scholar was merely a man who kept coming as a guest lecturer but the Minister of Home Affairs had power. With such power the Finance Minister could determine who is a money launderer without reason. The members of A Partnership For National Unity wants a dilution of the Minister’s power. If the government was serious about the impact blacklisting would have on Guyana it would have granted some concessions. The easiest concession would have been to create the Public Procurement Commission. Let us assume that it does not want to negotiate with the AFC because two of its former Central Committee members, one of whom was a Cabinet member, is now in the AFC camp, why not simply agree to a dilution of the Minister’s power in the Bill? It must be that things are not what they seem; that perhaps the people who are screaming the loudest do not want the Bill to pass.

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Letters... Where your views make the news

Govt. has been more than keeping its part of the bargain in Lethem AN OPEN LETTER TO: - Chairman and Board of Directors of Lethem Power Co. Inc. (LMPCI); - CEO and all Employees of LMPCI; - Regional Chairman and Councillors of Region 9; - Chairman and Councillors of Lethem Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC); - All Customers of LMPCI. As Lethem has been growing, and as more households and businesses and institutions, such as the new hospital, have come on line, the demand for electricity has been growing. Electricity prices at Lethem were set, initially, to meet the operating costs of the Moco-Moco Hydro-power Plant, but since 2004, LMPCI’s demand has increased three-fold and generation has been solely based on diesel-fuelled generating-sets (gensets). LMPCI has, thus, been experiencing more frequent and greater shortages of money. At times, LMPCI’s electricity supply has been curtailed because LMPCI did not have enough money to meet its operational and maintenance needs. From early 2013, the very pressing need was evident that the prices, which were in place since 2007, needed to be reviewed. Even as 2012 ended, LMPCI was facing many challenges. The Caterpillar genset which GPL Inc. had loaned at no charge, in 2009, to LMPCI for the opening of the Takutu Bridge, failed, and other units failed apparently as a result of, among other things, dusty conditions and dirty fuel. Electricity supply became uncertain, and availability was cut back. Government-provided emergency supplementary support was beyond that which was budgeted. I travelled to the area on at least two occasions, and reviewed the situation at town meetings to which all were invited. It was accepted that the pricing structure would need to be brought into accord with Government’s policy, but that there should be a stay in implementation until it was evident that plans were rolling to restore the 24x7 supply, by, in particular, the ordering of two new 750 kVa FG Wilson Generators at a total cost of about G$ 50 million. The generators were ordered, and are now in Lethem. The existing site, set initially perhaps decades ago, to supply lights at night to Government buildings, is prone to flooding, as is the adjacent telecoms exchange. The new generators are being set up at a new site in the industrial area, high above any historical flooding. Over the next year or two, the new site will be fully developed, and the existing site may be released. The Government has been more than keeping its part of the bargain, and earnest, honest, responsible citizens of Lethem should be keeping their part of the bargain, no less. And, what is that bargain? The Government’s policy in providing “a degree of electrification across our hinterland” is that Government would put in the capital requirements, and expects the beneficiaries (the customers) to meet the recurring costs – operations and

maintenance. For most communities in the hinterland, buildings are 100 metres or more apart, and the provision of a grid network is uneconomic, hence this Government’s acquisition, supply and installation of a total of about 13,500 photo-voltaic solar home systems which, on average, provide about 9 kWh per month. We began pilot operations with a few hundred installations of 125-watt panels, but at about $325,000 per household, that was beyond our country’s means, at this time, given our commitment to bring a similar degree of electrification to every household. We soon settled for 65-watt installation, at costs averaging about $80,000 to $ 100,000 per householdinstalled. Each village/community has entered a covenant/contract with us that households will put in a fund, an average of $ 500/month, for sustainability - to replace lamps and batteries, from time to time. We have embarked on acquiring some 6,000 additional sets for nearhinterland, riverain homes that are beyond the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), Inc., or any other network. And, what has been the case with Lethem? This Government, recognizing that Lethem ought to be given as good an opportunity as we could provide to make itself into an important secondary town on our border with Brazil, directed an offer from the Government of China of a small hydro-power plant to the Moco-Moco site at Lethem. This 0.5 MW hydro-power plant cost about G$700 million, inclusive of an initial network. At that time, without a continuous Linden-Lethem road, materials had to be transported via Venezuela and Brazil, and flown in from

Georgetown. Unfortunately, this station, which was started up in 1999, was put out of operation in 2004, after a massive landslide broke the penstock. Over the four to five years of operation, we learnt that there would likely be a two- to four-month period before the May rains, when only a half, or no, electricity could be generated. Full diesel back-up would be required if the electricity supply were to be maintained through to the end of the dry season, and as the demand grew, additional diesel generation would be required at all times to meet peak demands of more than 0.5 MW. Government granted the capital to meet the changed and growing needs. The historical electricity prices at Lethem were set with the assumption that the majority of electricity required, would have been provided by MocoMoco, but this has not been so since 2004. Already by 2011, there was a subsidy to operating costs of more than G$100 million per year – that is more than an average of G$100,000 for each of LMPCI’s 1,050 customers, but likely ranging from $ 25,000 to $1,000,000 across the 1,050 different households and businesses receiving electricity in Lethem. Capital costs on which the Government has been making good, would add one-quarter to one-half more. The Government, in 2009, invested G$50 million in revamping and expanding the network, and has provided a number of gensets on an emergency basis. Mr. Carl A. Parker, Sr., in his recent letter demanding even increased subventions to Lethem, either has not taken time to learn the degree of support to customers in Lethem, or is being unconscionable. Now - for a consideration of the cost (Continued on page 5)

A system that could lead to an atmosphere of cooperation DEAR EDITOR, I have often decried the negativism and extremism that seem to have become the normal nature of the contributions of most letter-writers and columnists who express their views in our national media. Notwithstanding this, I also believe that this type of expression must have sprung from people’s feelings of hopelessness in the political situation, and a common belief that the administrators of our nation seem to be forging ahead with their own programmes, unmindful of what a large proportion of our population believe should take place, and the fact that they should be allowed to participate in the decision-making process, if only by being given the opportunity to communicate their opinions on the various issues. I am therefore reminding those in authority that, as long as what they are doing will affect all of us, no matter how worthy this may appear to them, then they have the obligation to convince all sections of our populace of the efficacy

of all projects on which they intend to embark, and try to get a consensus on all matters political. This may mean bending backwards in many instances, but the ability and willingness to go the extra mile towards compromise and cooperation are prerequisites of any party that seeks to head our affairs, and this approach can only result in improved relationships, and thus pave the way for development. I have suggested before that in each administrative entity some system be instituted that is geared specifically towards an open-minded reception of the questions members of the public may ask concerning any issues of which the authorities have control, so as to open a channel of consultation and receipt of people’s suggestions and queries. This would of course also serve to lessen the antagonistic manner in which people express themselves in the various media, and must lead to an atmosphere of cooperation by all concerned. Roy Paul

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

Letters... Where your views make the news

Govt. has been more... From page 4 of electricity and structuring of the charges! Historical all-up costs for electricity, mostly for lighting in hinterland areas, using small gasoline- and dieselengine sets, have been in the region of G$150 to G$ 200 per kWh, available over four to six hours. We hope to do better with our small grids, with diesel- generation in largersized units. At Lethem, running costs, so far, including operations and maintenance, and losses, have been averaging about G$125 per kWh billed. We believe that with experiences gained over time, ‘all-up’ running costs could be gradually reduced to about $100 per kWh billed. So, in putting a cap on the cost-recovery charge at $100 per kWh billed, there is still a subsidy beyond capital costs. We have been involved in international discussions about how to subsidize and support (if at all) the supply of electricity (and water). There is the question if the Government subsidizes, how it should subsidize. If you think of it, if the unit rate is subsidized by, say, one-third, then a large household or commercial operation that takes, say, 500 or 1,000 or more units, is enjoying a subsidy that is, in quantity, ten, twenty or more times the subsidy to the 50 units which a low-income household may take. There are arguments that if there is to be subsidy, it could be better in the form of a small- or no-charge on the first 10 to 30 kWh consumed. In that way, each and every consumer enjoys an equal quantity of subsidy. Hence, our position in these small hinterland locations, being aware that many households are not yet into a regular cash-economy, is to provide the first 15 kWh at absolutely no charge. This could be compared to the approximate 9 kWh for households, with the 65-watt photo-voltaic systems. Also, 15 kWh, at a price of $100 per kWh, is a grant of $ 1,500 per month, $ 18,000 per year, and a bit more, as explained before. This grant of $18,000 (and more) each year, is enjoyed by every customer, and compares well with the $ 20,000 assistance, each year, granted to all old-age pensioners on the GPL Inc. grid, in whose name the meter is listed. Note that, in Lethem, households which choose to burn more electricity than the no-charge 15 kWh base, say 30, 45, or 60 kWh/month, would be billed $1,500, $ 3,000, or $ 4,500 per month, at average costs of $ 50, $ 67 and $ 75 per kWh, respectively. This is the situation with the

large majority of consumers. On the question of being fair to large consumers, it should be kept in mind that they too enjoy the initial grant, and also the subsidy that remains even at $100 per kWh. They have the right, in law, as everywhere in Guyana, to choose to self-generate at any time, if they judge that they will be better off doing so: without seeking permission, only registering after being set up. As indicated earlier, large houses and businesses, at current prices, are enjoying subsidies up to G$1 million per year. Any business or “big house” that finds subsidized electricity essential for its survival, is not being built on a sound basis, and is rather “mining” the subsidy. I hope that Mr. Parker, Sr., after studying this letter, would see wisdom in changing his position. I cannot imagine Mr. Parker, Sr., could expect that the subsidy to Lethem would be increased indefinitely. Citizens at other locations would need subsidies too! Citizens at Mahdia and Port Kaituma are abiding, from the inception, with the pricing of nocharge for the first 15 kWh and $100 for every additional kWh, for a 24x7 service. And other communities at Moruca, Mabaruma and Matthew’s Ridge are calling for a 24x7 service; and Kamarang, too, as I heard just a week ago. They must be ready, too, to abide with the policy to receive 24x7 electricity supply. Lethem has been getting more than it should – if this is maintained, moreso, if it is increased, there would be less money to provide an appropriate subsidy to other developing communities across our hinterland. Our hinterland electrification programme would be greatly slowed down; there have always been the questions before us as to whether we are not proceeding too rapidly. If Lethem customers hold on to Mr. Parker, Sr., the Government would be greatly delayed in getting to 24x7 electricity supply in the centre of villages like AnnaiAranaputa, Aishalton and Karasabai. I can feel the growing desire for such in those villages. Lethem customers

would not be fair to their fellow citizens in those villages. If there is no return to our policy in Lethem, the electricity supply, at some point, would be limited by the subsidy, with the likelihood - as has occurred - of cutting back the hours of electricity, and of finding in October or November that all of the subsidies are gone, and the electricity company faces being shut down altogether. That would not be a situation under which to live, much less grow. The continued growth of Lethem would be curtailed! Electricity customers would be better off, coming into accord. Mr. Parker, Sr., should be encouraging them to do so, as they promised. Even as we engage in this debate, the Government is pursuing a number of possibilities to stay ahead of electricity demand in Lethem and the Rupununi, and is in talks with private investors and multi-lateral agencies about renewable energy, restoring Moco-Moco, and constructing a hydro-power station at Wamakaru (3.2 MW, and networks for about US$21 million, providing power in about 2020). A basis for all this is that any such development should not bring greater burdens to the nation’s treasury. We expect that average costs of generation would be lower than costs based, as now, on petroleum products. However, it would be good, if not essential, as we go ahead, to have the assurance that beneficiaries in Lethem, and the Rupununi, in general, would be willing to pay what is required. Mr. Parker, Sr., I have no doubt that we Guyanese can build for ourselves the better life of which we are worthy, and not by looking for more subsidies - subsidies have to come from somewhere, anyhow – but, rather, by facing up to the requirements and working to meet them. And we must all have the faith, as we in the PPP/C have always had, that with our earnest work, we would be as successful as other people around the world! Samuel A. A. Hinds Prime Minister and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Energy

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Dr. Karen Cummings sworn in as APNU Parliamentarian …Basil Williams elected Deputy Speaker There was a major reshuffling in the House yesterday as Dr. Karen Cummings, of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), took the oath of Office as a Member of Parliament under the auspices of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Basil Williams was elected Deputy Speaker. The newest Member of Parliament was warmly welcomed by Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman, APNU Leader, Brigadier (rtd) David Granger and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. Prior to the swearing in by the Clerk of the National Assembly, Trotman formally informed the House of the resignation of former Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deborah Backer. According to Trotman, when he was informed of Backer’s resignation he called on the representative of the list, for APNU, Bhiswaishwar ‘Cammie’ Ramsaroop, to extract a name from that list to be placed the seat left vacant. He said that the Guyana

Dr. Karen Cummings takes the oath of office to become the newest Member of Parliament Elections Commission (GECOM) yesterday morning informed him that Dr. Karen Cummings would be the person to fill the vacant seat. Leader of the political Opposition, in welcoming the newest Member of

Parliament, told the House, that the representative comes with a wealth of experience in the medical field and expressed his confidence in her. He said that even though the shoes of Backer would be

hard to fill, Dr. Cummings’ expertise and commitment will more than compensate in seeking the development of the people of Guyana. Prime Minister Samuel Hinds also had warm words of welcome for Dr. Cummings.

Dr. Cummings later told media operatives that she was delighted to know that the leading opposition party is committed to gender equity and women empowerment and women climbing the economic pyramid. She said that she looks forward to the deliberations in the House particularly as it relates to constitutional reform and looks forward to making a positive contribution and a meaningful input. She said that as it relates to her pursuits in the House, like her party mantra she too wants good governance and a good life for all at the national level. Following the swearing in of the Member of Parliament, Speaker Trotman reminded the House that there must be a Deputy Speaker elected as soon as possible. Backer who resigned was elected the Deputy Speaker of the House when the 10th Parliament was opened. Opposition Chief Whip, Amna Ally, informed Speaker Trotman, that APNU would

like to nominate Shadow Legal Affairs Minister, Basil Williams, for the post, which it did. The nomination was seconded by Dr. Rupert Roopnarine and when there were no other nominations presented to be considered for the post, Williams was declared Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly. The changes in the House yesterday also included a few promotions. APNU’s Ronald Bulkan was notably promoted from the backbench to the front bench in the rank and file while Vanessa Kissoon was sent to the backbench of her party’s seating arrangement. Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Jennifer Webster, was also promoted to the front benches. She was moved to the seat once occupied by the then Local Government Minister Ganga Persaud. He resigned his post as Minister effective January 31 last and while he remains a Member of Parliament was noticeably absent from the sitting yesterday.

Commissioner of Information, Charles Ramson Snr.

E-Governance Project Director, Alexei Ramotar

requested to examine the project and make recommendations for satisfactory completion at the earliest time. The Prime Minister denied that there have been cost overruns. He explained firstly that there are two separate

projects being undertaken, namely an E-Government Project and a Dense Wavelength Division Multiplex (DWDM) Long Haul Fibre Project. He explained that the EGovernment is an infrastructural project which aims to provide the necessary Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure so that the “Government provides better services to all Guyanese.” According to Hinds, “This infrastructure is aimed at improving Government to Government communication, Government to Citizen, access to information and services and Government to Business communication.” He explained that the objectives of this project is to (continued on page 24)

Charles Ramson paid $1.2M a month as Commissioner of Information …revised project deadline for E-Governance announced The Guyana Government pays Senior Counsel, Charles Ramson Snr, the former Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, in excess of $1.2M, as Commissioner of Information while the son of President Donald Ramotar, Alexei Ramotar is paid $650,000 a month for his post as head of the E-Governance project. Both bits of information came from Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds, who was responding to questions

posed to him by the Alliance for Change’s Catherine Hughes and A Partnership for National Unity’s Joseph Harmon, respectively. Prime Minister, Hinds was also requested by Hughes to provide the House with the number of applications made to the Commission under the Access to Information Act and was told that no such application have been made as yet. Asked about the staffing details of the Commission,

Hinds told the House that apart from the Commissioner, only two other persons have been employed. Government has also been footing the Bills for his telephone calls which it said is his only allowance. Ramson was sworn in as Commissioner of Information on July 15, last year. Meanwhile as it relates to the E governance project, Hinds denied that there was any extensive delays, adding that while the project unit had

aimed for an April, 2014 completion date, this has since been extended to August 2014. Hinds said that as it relates to the laying of the fibre optic cable, there was improper handling and installation of the cable which has led to some lengths of cable being damaged. The Prime Minister said, too, that in addition to works on the four-lane highway on the East Bank Demerara, vandalism have significantly contributed to the delays of approximately two years in implementing the project. An independent third party expert was recently

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

Letters... Where your views make the news

An atrocious display by two schoolchildren DEAR EDITOR, One psychological and physical attribute of adolescence is the ‘crush’. Nothing is alien about it. As a matter of fact, it is a normal part of growing up and we can all attest to the pleasurable waves of sensation derived from the knowing that you have a boyfriend or girlfriend. During my time in secondary school, such encounters were displayed in a discreet manner which ranged from exchanging notes, glances, rational conversations etc. And understandably, closure to any of these adolescent relationships evoked excruciating pain but was handled civilly and in a child-like manner. Fast forward a decade later and to my chagrin, it seems that some adolescent relationships in schools have transformed immensely for

the worse and seem to be spiraling out of control. I want to make special reference to an altercation which I saw on an uploaded video on one of the popular social networking sites on the 8th of February involving two beautiful young ladies uniformed in school attire, in the vicinity of the Brickdam area. From the raucous tones, it seemed that the feud hinged on a triangular relationship involving these young ladies and a guy. For those of us who saw the video, we can confess that raucous is a euphemism. These young ladies were hurling expletives, unbridled, at each other, with wanton disregard for anyone in their presence. And their tones were definitely beyond the threshold of audibility. If the intention was to attract attention from the viewing public, they certainly accomplished that goal

evident by the presence of a myriad of other children all attired in school uniforms and passersby; with their smart phones out capturing every bit of the inappropriate display. Had it not been for the presence of a security guard who stood between these two young ladies, one shudders to think what may have happened, as there was a deluge of swearing, fingerpointing and even swipes taken at each other. This behaviour was simply reprehensible and these young ladies have not only managed to make themselves objects of caricature, but they also succeeded in tarnishing the image of their school and humiliated their parents or guardians, and as a result, should be dealt with condignly for this unforgivably destructive behaviour. Raul Khan

Chanderpaul should be in the ODI team against England DEAR EDITOR, I have been covering international cricket for the past two decades and I know for a fact that regional cricket tournaments are treated as trial matches for international cricket. And with the performance of West Indies star batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, I cannot see why he should not be selected for the Three One Day Internationals starting on February 28 against England in Antigua. The “Tiger” scored two half centuries in as many matches Guyana played in the 50-over Nagico tournament so far. He batted stubbornly on both occasions and was associated in big opening partnerships in both games. Even before these magnificent performances, the Guyanese is known for

being the mainstay in the West Indies line-up and one wonders why he is only being retained for Test matches - the longest version of the game. The last match he represented the West Indies in ODI was in 2011 and it said that the senior coach Barbadian Ottis Gibson does not like his batting style for ODIs. I wonder if Gibson can properly assess one’s batting ability when he was a bowler, and not even an outstanding one, hence the reason he only played a few tests. Shiv so far scored 11 centuries and 59 half centuries in his 268 ODIs games at an average of 41.60 — more than nearly all the one day players. In Tests he has scored 11,219 runs at an average of 51.93. Moreso he is a team player - the junior players always turn to him for

advice. He captained the Windies team on 14 occasions in Test matches and 16 ODIs and was among Wisden’s five best players in 2008. He is known as the backbone of the team and one wonders why he is being sidelined for the shorter version of the game when he is an aggressive player, having scored the third fastest century in Test cricket. He is also a magnificent fielder. What else can a player do to be in the squad? It seems as if Gibson has other reasons for keeping him out of the squad. Oscar Ramjeet

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Tuesday February 11, 2014

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

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A CITY OF FOUR QUADRANTS Traffic control in Georgetown is no longer a simply a problem. It has long passed that stage; it is now a crisis. This crisis is not simply due to the increase in the number of vehicles owned by residents of the city. While there are many homes in which the occupants have more than one vehicle, there are still thousands of homes in the city in which there are none. The occupants of these homes use bicycles, motorcycles, public transportation-hire cars and buses- and/or walk. The crisis with traffic control in the city concerns the large numbers of vehicles that traverse the streets of the city each day. This is therefore essentially a problem that has to be addressed by social engineering. By expanding the number of business in the city, by allowing influx of vending on our streets and pavements and wherever else they exist,

by increasing the number of squatter settlements in an already overpopulated city, the authorities have either willingly or unwillingly created monstrous social problems, amongst which is traffic control. The large numbers of businesses that have opened in residential areas, some approved and some not approved, attract an increase in vehicular flow. The more business they are in a small city, the greater will be the congestion and today this is what is exacerbating the problems of traffic control in the city. There is massive influx of vendors into the city each day. The number of legal and illegal vending amount to thousands and this creates a demand for transportation into, around and out of the city. This adds appreciably to the number of vehicles being used in Georgetown which is an extremely small city. Georgetown was always overpopulated for its size. Some wards are densely

Dem boys seh ...

Govt don’t want de Bill pass, dem fuss going to jail De biggest thing facing Guyana is de anti-money laundering Bill. This Bill been in de system fuh 13 years, throughout de time when Jagdeo was president. Dem pass de Bill in parliament, but was like dem had no Bill, because nobody ain’t get charge or nobody ain’t get question. As de Americans tell Jagdeo he didn’t care bout de Bill; that it was only a window dressing. De truth is that he Jagdeo woulda be de first one to get lock up. He followers woulda get lock up too, because it woulda stop dem from thiefing and dem coulda nevah explain wha dem already had. De Bill come back again and dem nah keen in passing it. Dem want blame de Hap New and de Hay F See, Dem telling de nation that these two don’t want pass de Bill. Hay F See tell dem that dem would support de Bill but dem want de government fuh give dem a simple thing wha shoulda been in place years now—de Procurement Commission—fuh watch dem thiefing kantractahs and dem hefty kickbacks. De country wouldn’t a get black list and all this begging of Hap New didn’t have to happen. On de other hand, Hap New want to vote fuh de Bill too, but dem want dem government people to tek out de power wha dem tek fuh demself. In short, dem don’t want de Bill pass. Why? Because some of dem gun go to jail. Is a good Bill without de power dem want fuh demself; dem want to be de police and de nation know that some of dem got to go to jail. Imagine de PPP Shaat crook tell de Hap New Shaat man like heself, “Man, vote fuh de Bill and we gun talk later. We gun put all dem things in place later.” Right away Hap New seh that dem had enough wid promise. You can’t trust dem government people, dem never stand up to dem word. Dem can’t even stand up straight pun dem own two foot. Dem promise radio fuh Linden and to this day no radio; dem promise radio licence fuh broadcasters and that ain’t happen; dem promise to talk who got money in Marriott and that can’t happen; dem promise fuh jail de people in Hen See Hen who thief de GT&T money, nutten. Dem promise fuh stop sole sourcing and Bobby still got privilege. Dem promise to reduce de Berbice Bridge toll; Jagdeo promise to personally mek sure Skeldon factory successful; that was a lie. Donald seh that he gun investigate NICIL and everything gun be above board. Hap New want dem fix de anti-money laundering Bill and put de power in de right people hand suh de right people can go to jail. That is wha dem don’t want. Dem want hold on to de power fuh send de ordinary man to jail. But no matter wha law dem try fuh mek, dem boys know that Aunt Dora and Aunt Joan waiting patiently fuh dem in Uncle Sam. De first one is Brazzy; de second is Jagdeo. Talk half and dem boys promise de pumpkin jumpsuit fuh de rest of dem.

populated. Instead of reducing this overcrowding, the problem has been increased by the lack of action to prevent increased urbanization. The problem is being compounded by widespread squatting in the city for which no action. This squatting has also increased the demand for transportation, this more vehicles. The authorities have recognized the problem with traffic control. But they have missed the fact that this problem is now a crisis. Last December, it was promised that this year the city would have been divided up into four quadrants so as to promote greater traffic control. This is an excellent idea because Georgetown is suited to such a proposal. The streets of the city are designed in a grid-

like fashion. Therefore it is going to be fairly simple to design the quadrants. It is proposed to begin consultations on this plan next month. However, with a little more than two weeks before the month of March commences, the public is yet to learn about the specifics of the quadrants and how this affect traffic in each particular street in each quadrant. Consultations obviously can only be meaningful if those being consulted know about the specifics of the plan. It was therefore expected that by now some announcement of the proposed plans would have been made public. The specifics of the proposed plan therefore needs to be unfurled.

But will dividing the city into quadrants provide a permanent solution of traffic control, indeed if any at all? If the businesses continue to balloon, if the squatting problem is not arrested and if illegal vending is allowed to continue, it makes no sense implementing any plan to design the city into four quadrants. There has to be a moratorium on the establishment of new businesses in the city. The laws prohibiting businesses in residential areas, also, must be rigorously enforced. But if you do this, then illegal vending and squatting also have to be tackled. It makes no sense dividing the city into quadrants if the increase in businesses is not curtailed.

Georgetown cannot and should not have any new business places. It is too small a city for so many businesses and it is creating disorder and confusion in the city. Solving the problems of traffic cannot be divorced from the problems of urbanization, illegal vending and squatting. If these problems continue, then demarcating quadrants in the city will not solve the crisis in traffic.

In light of several reports, which suggest an upsurge in criminal activities perpetrated by young people, the Men’s Affairs Bureau (MAB) has intensified its anti -violence campaign aimed at transforming the lives of “men of all ages.” The agency, which was established a few years ago, as an extension of the Ministry of Labour Human Services and Social Security, to partner, organise and coordinate the activities for men to achieve their full potential, in Guyana’s social, cultural and economic sectors has upped the ante with regards to its school based outreach programmes. During a recent interview with this newspaper, MAB Administrator, Diego Alphonso, explained that the bureau is continually working towards intensifying its campaign. “We will continue our outreaches in the private and public school and educational institutions in general, in addition, to children’s homes, sports clubs. “Anywhere that men and

boys congregate or can be mobilized there could be discussion on gender based violence, suicide prevention, interpersonal violence.” “As it relates to ages, we don’t work with specific ages necessarily, we go to primary and secondary schools and as I mentioned, wherever boys can be mobilised or they get together. The responses are very encouraging and it gives us the impetus to continue,” he emphasized. Alphonso added that the administration is currently working to resume sessions at New Opportunity Corps. Although the MAB facilitator did not provide much detail, he disclosed that the department has initiated its 2014 work programme. According to which, several public discussions are scheduled to be hosted. “There are certain areas that have been outlined for us to target during our campaign— Rasville, Tiger Bay, Albouystown—where we are going to hold sessions, aimed at engaging men and boys in activities which stimulate anti-

violent behaviour. We will discuss topics such as role models with them, as a way of diverting them from the wrong role models, and thus discouraging violent behaviour.” The administrator further disclosed that the agency intends to work in collaboration with already established sports clubs and social groups to host initiatives that will attract and positively impact young men. “Men in general want to be challenged, they have a desire to compete; hence we are in discussions with sports clubs and organizations to host certain sporting events and competitive activities that will attract young men. We are thinking more along the line of football and cricket. However, we are still at the stage of brainstorming the logistics of it.” Last year, the United Nations Development Programme

(UNDP), expressed grave concern with regard to youths involved in increased crime and violence locally and around the region. In this regard, Alphonso says that the department will continue its partnership with local and international bodies to achieve an ultimate objective of wiping out the degree of crime and violence prevalent amongst youths in today’s society. “We do a lot of collaboration. The Child Care and Protection Agency opened its doors for us to have sessions with the boys at the Sophia Training Centre, Drop in Center and the Mahaica Children’s Home before it started catering for girls only. We also collaborate with officers of the Women’s Affairs Bureau, who would interact with the females while we engage the men.” “We have collaborated (continued on page 11)

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday February 11, 2014

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

The sugar cake seller and the billionaire You’re running with me Don’t touch the ground We’re the restless hearted Not the chained and bound The sky is burning A sea of flame Though your world is changing I will be the same I doubt very much that any political party will tolerate my uncompromising stand on human hypocrisy. In politics, a political party has to ignore major displays of hypocrisy because inherently, electoral parties have to be seen as crowd pleasers. It is a logical outcome that must be understood though it may not be philosophically acceptable. When you are a human rights advocate, these

electorally determined inconveniences can be seen as perversities that are hard to tolerate. There is no question in my mind that both the AFC and APNU are largely tolerant of the unpatriotic minds of certain Private Sector Commission actors. These parties seriously believe that an organization has to ignore the morally low behaviour of many important stakeholders and engage them as a matter of policy. For this reason, I doubt I can take out membership in any political party. I will create confusion because I am essentially opposed to sleeping with the enemy for electoral gains. If I was a member of the PNC or AFC, I would have gone public with

a denunciation of their meeting with the Private Sector Commission (PSC) on the anti-laundering Bill. In going public, I suspect, I would come up for disciplinary treatment or have my membership revoked. This analyst does not believe that the PSC is a morally acceptable organization. These people are shameless in their open endorsement of the PPP Government beginning with the mess that President Jagdeo introduced into this country. These PSC people have nothing but contempt for this country and the poorer strata of Guyana. The PSC people are barefaced supporters of policies that have driven the last nail in the coffin of ethnic

suspicion, continue the horrors of workers’ exploitation, continue the terror of education devastation, especially at the tertiary level, perpetuate gigantic levels of corruption; all in all policies that have wiped away any gain of modern civilization in this land. Lo and behold! These very Anti-Christ citizens suddenly discovered a document that they themselves threw away in the garbage – nationalism. The business folks, the bankers (which banking institution in Guyana has trade union representation – Republic Bank in Trinidad has but not its branch in Guyana) insurance companies (one of which has taken up four blocks of downtown Georgetown for its own parking which I refuse to acknowledge), the multi-billionaire gold miners and the rest of the wealthy classes want the opposition to vote for the anti-laundering Bill so as to avoid economic and financial chaos. All the rich beggars who have lined up on the steps of Congress Place to beseech the PNC to support the Bill have suddenly found out that the voting down of the Bill will bring instability to this country. Isn’t this abject

hypocrisy? But it is also deception. The rich beggars, at Congress Place have now comprehended the causal factor for disaster in Guyana – lack of anti-money laundering legislation. There is a plethora of violations that can cause a society to disintegrate – official practice of racism, massive kleptocratic operations, naked abuse of people’s rights among others. The PSC underlings do not accept that and don’t care to understand the basis of instability in a country. The PSC sycophants see only one factor that spells disaster – the absence of antilaundering laws. So the opposition is given a lecture in political economy. If the Bill is not given parliamentary approval, all in Guyana will perish. No one will be saved; from the lady who sells her sugar cakes outside the rundown school in Georgetown to the billionaire miner with his New York bank account. But why don’t APNU and the AFC go to the sugar cake seller and explain politics to her? That vendor will tell the opposition that certain sections of a society have

Frederick Kissoon nothing to lose if the nation disintegrates because they don’t have anything in the first place. It reminds me of a conversation I had with a friend outside Nigel’s Supermarket during the period of Macbeth’s witches. While mo fyaah/slow fyaah was being stoked, I asked this fearless woman how long the protestors plan to be on the streets. She said, “Freddie as lang as possible; we ain’t gat nutting to lose because we ain’t gat nutten.” Try telling pavement vendors who are harassed everyday by the Minister Bruckup’s hammer; try telling the poor who work for minimum wage, try telling sugar workers whose employment has disappeared that disaster will come from voting down the Bill. They will gladly tell you, “Let disaster come, we ain’t gat nutting fuh lose.”

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

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International blacklisting looms as Guyana misses FATF deadline The Financial Action Taskforce (FATF) will today conclude its International Cooperation Review Group (ICRG) in Paris, France but Guyana has failed to debate or vote for the Anti Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill. While many expected the Bill to be returned to the House from the Special Select Committee, this did not obtain. The committee is yet to complete its work and will meet again Wednesday evening. Chairperson of the Committee, Gail Teixeira, told members of the media that the political opposition is adamant that it will not return the Bill to the House until their amendments to the Principal Act are included in the Bill. She said that there is consensus in the Committee, on the amendments recommended by the Caribbean Financial Action

Taskforce (CFATF) but the other amendments to the Principal Act are stalling the process. The Committee met yesterday and according to Teixeira, Government by way of a motion, proposed that the Bill be tabled in the House with just the CFATF recommendations but this was roundly rejected. Teixeira suggested that because the amendments brought by the Opposition on Sunday evening were quite complex and would have a lot of implications, the draftsmen could not complete the draft by yesterday morning. The Government is of the opinion that the Opposition amendments can be brought subsequently in another Bill but the Opposition is adamant that all, those recommended by CFATF and those amendments to the principal act be taken to the House at one time. At the end of yesterday’s meeting, a motion led to

adjourn the sessions for an indefinite period was initially proposed but this was amended to tomorrow evening. At this time it is expected that the draftsmen would have completed the final draft for the Bill which would be taken to the House as soon as possible thereafter. In the final analysis, according to Teixeira, the work of the Committee has not been completed and is now on a temporary pause. Meanwhile, the Alliance For Change (AFC), yesterday publicly reiterated its support for the Anti Money Laundering Amendment Bill but underlines that its support is hinged to the setting up of the constitutionally mandated Public Procurement Commission. By way of a public missive yesterday, the AFC said that “without the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission,

Anna Catherina man found floating at seawall, drowned – PM reveals A post-mortem examination conducted on the remains of Abdool Nazir Hack whose body was found floating face-down on Friday last at the Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara, seawall revealed that he died from asphyxiation due to drowning. Reports are that there were no life-threatening injuries found on the man’s body. The 48-year-old man, popularly known as ‘Dara’, resided at 35 Gas Station Street, Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara, with his 82year-old mother, Zabeeda. He was said to be an alcoholic. According to the man’s sister Bibi Reid, Hack was laid to rest yesterday at the Leonora Muslim Cemetery. The woman told this publication too that since her

brother’s body was in a state of decomposition, viewing was merely permitted briefly. “He get real black...he had some bruises on he face but I hear is from things in the water...I don’t know why the body decompose and I don’t want speculate,” said the woman. The last person to see Hack alive was his niece, Nafeeza, who told Kaieteur News that she saw him around 14:00 hours on Thursday last resting in a hammock at home. It is believed that the man was drinking alcohol during the course of Thursday night and wandered to the waterway where he fell and eventually drowned. Although no one reported seeing the man drinking alcohol in the community Thursday night, his family

Men’s Affairs unit ... From page 9 with the National Commission on the Family and which will continue in this New Year. We also have an external facilitator, a Clinical Psychologist, who has been very involved in out outreaches in the prisons.” “We are grateful to the UNFPA and the UNAIDS who have made certain projects become a reality as they partner with us.” Other collaborative efforts by MAB include

working with the GenderBased Violence (GBV) unit within the Ministry of Health. “This year, we are embarking on a programme for fathers, addressing the issue of GBV. We are appealing to organizations or persons, who may be in contact with large groups of young men to contact so that we can organize sessions on various topics of interest to that will weigh in on non-violent behaviour.”

Dead: Abdool Nazir Hack members did disclose that consuming the intoxicating spirits was in fact one of his regular pastimes. Hack’s body was discovered floating early Friday morning by a female resident who went out to the seawall to pray. She raised an alarm which prompted other villagers to rush to the scene. Family members who turned up too were able to identify Hack from a scar at the back of his head which he had sustained from an accident some years ago. In addition to his mother, Hack leaves to mourn six siblings and other relatives. His passing has had an eerie similarity to two fishermen, whose bodies were found days earlier at the De Kendren foreshore also on the West Coast of Demerara.

the (anti-money laundering Bill) is a half-baked attempt to stem the flow of illicit gains.” The AFC maintains that apart from the proceeds from illicit drugs, bribery, kickbacks and payoffs form the main artery feeding corrupt officials and draining away the lifeblood of poor, ordinary taxpayers. It said that since the passage of the original Anti Money Laundering legislation there has been little or no implementation. “There is no reason to believe that there will be any implementation of a revamped Bill…The AFC’s position is that the flow of illicit funds must be stemmed at its source; in the award of contracts, and this will only happen when the Public Procurement Commission is established…If the legislature wants to demonstrate its full commitment to stamping out money laundering it will act to ensure a fully functioning PPC.” Guyana currently shares the worst rating in the world with Mozambique, as it relates to the list of countries under FATF to be reviewed. According to official FATF records seen by this publication, Guyana heads the list of the International Co-operation Review Group

(ICRG). That group includes countries such as Guyana, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Haiti, Cameroon, Aruba, Benin, Fiji and Zambia. Last November, the Caribbean Financial Action Taskforce (CFATF) issued a public statement with regard to two of its members which are also in the ICRG pool— Belize and Guyana. “The publication of the CFATF statement on the FATF website does not constitute an official endorsement by the FATF…However, this public statement contains relevant information that countries and the private sector, as part of their implementation of the risk-based approach, should be aware of.” The CFATF statement on Guyana had said that Guyana has made efforts to address its deficiencies, however, it has not taken sufficient steps towards reforms. CFATF at the time was adamant that Guyana must pass the relevant legislation and implement all the outstanding issues within its Action Plan including fully criminalizing money laundering and terrorist financing offences; addressing all the requirements on beneficial

Gail Teixeira ownership; strengthening the requirements for suspicious transaction reporting, international co-operation, and the freezing and confiscation of terrorist assets, and fully implementing the UN conventions. Guyana is yet to meet the legislative obligations namely the passage of the Anti Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Amendment Bill. The three political parties have been haggling for months on end over the Bill which has again been sent to a special select committee of Parliament. According to the FATF document se e n b y t h i s publication, as in every subsequent plenary meeting since October (continued on page 24)

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Opposition calls President’s “bluff” over possible general polls By: Zena Henry Opposition parties are not convinced that the bitter spat over this year’s budget will spur on general elections. In fact, Alliance for Change (AFC) Leader Khemraj Ramjattan is calling President Donald Ramotar’s “bluff” amidst any suspected move to call General Elections. The AFC head was responding to questions over the likelihood of general elections given the further divide between the opposition and the government in Parliament following the ‘budget cuts ruling’ of Chief Justice Ian Chang a few weeks ago. Ramjattan charged that in his opinion, “the President will never call General Elections.” He said, “I don’t think the President would want to deny himself two years out of his presidency. The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) does not want Mr. Ramotar to be the next presidential candidate,” Ramjattan went on to say. “So for the President to call elections, I think it is out of the question.” After explaining that the Administration can call elections at anytime it deems, Ramjattan said, “I believe that Mr. Ramotar will be trying to

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan bluff the opposition over any call for elections. Jagdeo (former President Bharrat Jagdeo) has told him (President Ramotar) that he is a ‘lame duck president’ and he would only want to bluff the opposition.” “I am calling his bluff,” Ramjattan continued, “If I am wrong let him call elections.” Ramjattam explained that his party would not be seeking to disapprove the whole the budget. He said that disapproving the whole budget would see the government being forced to hold general polls. But Ramjattan is adamant that the AFC will not put public servants in a dire position

APNU’s Shadow Finance Minister Carl Greenidge where police officers, nurses and other public servants cannot be paid. “We are not proposing to cut the entire budget, but we will disapprove line items that we believe are corrupt or unnecessary.” Ramjattan related that there are over 5000 line items that appears from volumes one to three of the budget for all state ministries/agencies. These line items speak to various needs such as oils, lubricants, salaries etc. “The CJ is saying we can approve or disapprove so the agency will get not even a dollar; since we can’t reduce the figure we will not approve it.” This, he said, means that the Minister will not be legally allowed to spend money for that sector. Ramjattan said that for instance where the opposition had reduced

funds for National Communications Network (NCN) to one dollar, they will not receive a cent, if allocations for that sector are not approved this year; and that means workers will be sent home, Ramjattan said. He continued that there will be no revisions to be made by the Finance Minister after the sector is disapproved because it will be illegal. “If the sector is not approved that means it is reduced to zero, the CJ said to cut is wrong, but he said we can disapprove; which is less than one dollar.” Chief Justice Chang had stated in his budget cut ruling that when the opposition reduced certain public sectors to one dollar, they had performed a final act. He said that there would be no revision that could be done to suffice for the sector being cut or reduced. Opposition Leader for A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), David Granger, had told Kaieteur News in an interview last week that if the government is to go ahead with a budget that has no consensus, then it would be identical to a “car crash.” Shadow Finance Minister Carl Greenidge told Kaieteur News yesterday that he too is not convinced that the CJ’s ruling on the budget cuts will trigger general polls. He told Kaieteur News that the CJ ruled that the budget cannot be cut in the way it was done in the past where sectors were reduced

to one dollar, but if it is done the way the CJ ruled then it will not trigger a problem. He said that he does not believe that the government will jump to elections. He said however that if the entire budget is turned down then the government can suspend Parliament’s Standing Orders and return with a whole new budget given the agreement of Parliament. If not, he said, then the government will be forced to call elections because that nation cannot function without money. The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has however taken

note that the possibility of general elections being called this year, ahead of time, is not farfetched. The agency’s PRO Vishnu Persuad told Kaieteur News, “The Commission has already started thinking along those lines and has started to put itself together for that eventuality.” The process, he said, could take place in three months (90 days) or in an additional time frame if so requested by parliament. The request would however be made by the President who would notify the elections commission that it should gear for elections.

Three cases up for consideration at CCJ sitting in Guyana The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) will be holding its first sitting in Guyana from February 17, to consider the application/appeal or to hear the submissions of three cases. There will also be a special sitting for Justice Desiree Bernard, the only Guyanese Judge on the panel who will be retiring after serving the court since its establishment in 2001. The sitting will be held at 10:00 hrs on the second floor of the Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC), Liliendaal.

The following cases will be submitted; Paul Lashley and John Campayne versus Detective Corporal Winston Singh; Feizal Mohamed Amin (trading under the name style and firm of Amin Lumber Enterprise) versus Guyana Oil Company Limited; and Daniel Ramlagan by Ramkumarie Ramlagan versus Narine Singh by Saiojine Singh. Attorney- at- Law Jacqueline Graham, during an Interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA) at the Court of Appeal, Kingston today, stated that the CCJ President, Dennis Byron will be present at the sitting, along with Justices Rolston Nelson, Winston Anderson, Adrian Saunders, Jacob Witt, David Hayton and Desiree Bernard. This would be the third sitting of CCJ as sittings were already held in Barbados and Jamaica during 2013. The CCJ, based in Trinidad and Tobago is the judicial institution of the Caribbean, and operates under two jurisdictions, that is, an original jurisdiction and an appellate jurisdiction. Thus far, Guyana, Belize, Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Suriname, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica, St Vincent and the Grenadines are signed on to CCJ. (GINA)

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

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Vreed-en-Hoop vendors Failure to ID suspects might be the on clean-up mission end of the investigation - Kennard Alleged sodomy of teen…

Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority, Justice Cecil Kennard, has said that while he has the file of the teen Nicholas Kissoon who claims that he was sodomized by police ranks, he has not been able to read it since he received it on Friday. The mere fact that Kissoon was unable to identify the alleged culprits, could signal the end of the case. The lad who is described by family and close relatives as one who would make false allegations, sparked off an investigation after alleging that three police ranks sodomised him at the Stabroek Market Police Outpost at around 21:00 hours on January 19, last. According to a police official, the ‘victim’ claimed that one of the perpetrators has a gold tooth and was dressed in uniform at the time, while the other ranks were in plainclothes. However Police and Welfare officials had said that despite two identification parades, the lad failed to pick

out the alleged culprits who he claimed sexually assaulted him. A police official told Kaieteur News that investigators had been trying to locate the teen so he could try to identify the accused ranks but were unsuccessful. They got a break when the lad staged a protest on the roof top of the Police Cooperative Society building in Robb Street and later on the roof of Stabroek News, threatening to take his life while repeatedly shouting that he was sodomised by police officers. He said that he was afraid to go back into police custody, and was fed up with his lifestyle. He was subsequently apprehended. Kaieteur News understands that it has been recommended that the teen undergo psychiatric evaluation. During the incident that occurred on the roof tops Kissoon, also called ‘Beyonce,’ ‘Nikki’ and ‘Sweet Back’ was pacing back and forth and speaking to himself, the lad repeatedly said “I can’t go back. Why these

people just don’t leave me alone. I wan dead. I wan dead.” Social workers are familiar with the teen, who has a long history of delinquency and is also a commercial sex worker. Close relatives of the alleged victim have repeatedly expressed skepticism about his story. At least two relatives claimed that the lad has a habit of making false accusations. They said that the ‘victim’ has been wandering the streets from an early age and was involved in acts of prostitution. His mother is said to be ill while his father is serving a life sentence for murder. Kaieteur News was told that the boy was staying with an elderly female relative, but began wandering the streets and soliciting sex, after the relative died. He was incarcerated at the New Opportunity Corps but was released a few months ago. One relative described the ‘victim’ as someone who “would bring police and say you do him something.”

Kwakwani woman to face manslaughter charge A 39- year-old Kwakwani woman is expected to appear before a Christianburg Magistrate to answer a charge relating to the death of her reputed husband. This follows the advice of the Director of Public Prosecution, who recommended that Rehannah Trotz be charged with manslaughter. Trotz, of Kwakwani Water Front, Upper Berbice River, who was arrested last Friday, is accused of killing Quinn ferrier, 44, on the same day. She allegedly stabbed the victim once, while they were on the air strip road.

A post mortem examination which was performed by pathologist, Vivekanand Brijmohan, revealed that Ferrier died from shock and hemorrhage caused by the stab wound. The woman had told detectives that she and Ferrier, a chain saw operator, were living together for the past six years. They had no children together but they shared the home with three of Ferrier’s children and her five. Trotz said that she left the children with her husband and went to Georgetown to purchase clothing for one of

Brickdam Secondary alumni to aid student population “Our goal is to gain national attention of our existence with the intent to encourage ex students and sponsors to get involved in giving back to our younger generation and help to make them exceptional boys and girls of the future,” said Pepita Martindale, Vice President of the Brickdam Secondary School Alumni United States Chapter. She said that the United States Chapter, has a pallet

shipment of modern equipment and much needed supplies which is scheduled to be in Port Georgetown later this week. “This is our biggest donation since we were established and there are some big ticket items included. “Without help from our sponsors Sybil’s West Indian Bakery and Hibiscus Restaurant and loyal supporters, this would not have been possible.”

her daughters’ wedding. She said that she returned home on Thursday around 17:00 hrs and Quinn was not at home. Around 20:00 hrs Trotz claimed that Quinn called her via cellular phone to inform her that he was drinking by his friend Mark McLean. It was late and the family retired to bed. Around 03:00 hrs on Friday, Quinn called again asking her to meet him at the airstrip road a short distance away from their home. She said that while she was there, she saw Quinn pushing his bicycle in the company of McLean; they both appeared drunk. An argument ensued between herself and Quinn and he dealt her a slap and chucked her to the ground. She said that she then heard Quinn telling McLean that persons have been telling her (Trotz) that he (Quinn) was enjoying the services of Mc Lean’s female neighbour. Trotz said that Quinn was advancing to attack her again when she noticed a knife on the ground and she stabbed him once to the chest. He fell to the ground and was assisted by McLean to the Kwakwani Hospital where he succumbed a while after. McLean reported the matter to Kwakwani Police Station and Trotz was arrested.

Some of the stall-holders in clean-up mode

They call themselves ‘The Vreed-en-Hoop Progressive Stalls Committee’; their mission is to ensure that the Vreed-enHoop, West Coast Demerara Stelling area does not develop a garbage-infested image. This is according to the Committee’s spokesperson, Rose Sugrim, who said that since no effort is usually made to keep the area tidy a group of stallholders decided to be proactive. “We are the stall owners here, and there has been no one helping this community (so) we decided that we will clean this place,” said Sugrim. The committee members were in fact engaged in a clean-up exercise Sunday. The activity was the second

they would have undertaken, having completed one the previous week. It is the hope of the Committee that others would be inspired by the clean-up move and even opt to emulate it, or render assistance. The committee is appealing for donations of garbage bins that could be placed strategically along the Stelling area to prevent wanton littering. “We formed this group and we are strong. We want betterment for this stelling... We don’t want this place to look like (sections of) Georgetown with garbage (but) we need some help; we need bins,” noted Sugrim. And even as efforts are

being made to address the littering culture, there currently exists a stall at the Stelling, reportedly owned by a Government official that has been abandoned for a while and is being used by some as a dumpsite. “This stand is the main source of garbage collection; we need it to be removed... It will help the buses to park better and the vendors there can see what is happening,” one vendor said. There are reports that the Neighbourhood Democratic Council Chairman is unable to address the growing situation. Officials of the Local Government Ministry have since promised to visit the area in the new week.

Lyng Street residents seek help to counter “Neighbor from hell” Residents of the Lyng Street Neighbourhood, Charlestown, are imploring the higher authorities to intervene in the matter of a woman whom they allege has been tormenting them daily. Reports stated that Mrs. Carrington and her husband have been living in the Charlestown area for three years but neighbours continue to verbally and physically abuse them. The residents explained that the abusive neighbor has a habit of verbally abusing passers-by even when they are not looking in her direction. One resident said, “This woman is the Neighbour from Hell. You don’t have to do her anything. She always hollering on people and cussing them out and she

thinks people are envious of her. “We honestly don’t care about what this woman has. We never went to her house to know what’s inside but every day she is on her verandah talking about what she has and what we don’t. It is frustrating.” Another said, “We are of the firm belief that the woman is mentally unstable because no sane person can do this. Whenever she is in the country she picks fights and gets her husband involved. When she is away, her husband is a peaceful soul. “We are calling on the authorities because this woman needs counseling and we are afraid that someone violent in the neighbourhood is going to hurt her. We have been hearing the threats

already.” Kaieteur News also understands that the woman was taken to court by several members of the neighbourhood for abusive language and threatening behaviour. She was even placed on a bond to keep the peace with one neighbor and issued a restraining order for another resident because of her “abusive behaviour.” Despite the numerous times she has been to court, she is allegedly still abusing members of the neighbourhood. Residents are urging that the matter be looked into by the higher authorities since reports to the police at the Ruimveldt Police Station seem to have fallen on deaf ears for quite some time.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday February 11, 2014

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Prime Property for sale – Light Street, Alberttown – Contact:639-3619, 619-7299

M.F Tractor 3650, 4X4, 131 H/P, 6 Cylinder Turbo Diesel Tel: 228-5040; 662-9848 1-2640 MF Tractor 4wd with 1 – Rome Plough 20 dish, 1CAT Satndby 3306,194KVA 3 Phase 60 Cylinder – Tel:693-4596 Spare for washing machine, microwaves,fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc call: 225-9032, 647-2943 Live/pluck chicken call: 6504421, 220-9203 1- 500 Ton Cargo ship - Tel: 676-6933 Large Plucked Chickens $280lb retail, Pork $380lb retail @ George & Hadfield Streets. House and land situated at Lot 95 La Penitence Street, Albouystown. Land -7,933 Sq./Ft. – Call:592-687-5851; 604-589-1852 Dell computers complete with 20" LCD $65,000, 6 months warranty @ Futuretech- Call:231-2206 Zmodo Surveillance System – Tel:609-2815 Pure bred Rottweiler & German Sheperd- Tel:6108627/686-3072/618-2903 Fishing Boat: Length - 30ft, Width - 6½ft, Depth - 3½ft. Engine 15HP Tohatsu - Tel: 697-0648; 667-9662 1 - CAT D5 Bulldozer Contact Number: 650-0402 1 Stall @ Stabroek Market Tel: 658-0115; 718-757-8031 2 – M132 Laverda Combine, 3- Pressure Pump 4x3 for gold field – call:627-0447 PVC Ceiling Panels, PVC Mouldings, Medallions. Royal Quality! – Tel:6148564; 629-0372 Toyota Verossa (White) Excellent Condition - $2.7M Negotiable – Contact: 6668492. One GX110 (PJJ Series) Toyota Mark 2. Lady Driven. Excellent Condition, $1.9M negotiable. Call:609-2466 1 Set 05 Tacoma lights, 1 pathfinder A/C Compressor, 110V energy bulbs, 12V LED bulbs - Tel:641-1127 Toyota Tacoma 4X4 Extra Cab 2002, Nissan Frontier 4X4 Extra Cab 2002, DJ System – Tel:695-9807 One enclosed Canter in immaculate condition. $2.5M Tel: 660-8260

German Shepherd Pups. Tel: 220-2277; 220-8904; 626-0910 Generators Two John Deere, 63 KVA 50KW 3M. 135KW – 168KVA – $4.5M, 440 Volts, 240 Volts – Tel: 644-9084 2005 Yamaha R6 motorcycle Tel: 609-2815 270 Amps Portable Honda Welders and 1-2002 Tundra Tel: 611-5114 All Types of Power tools, Hand Tools, Silicones, from spray, bicycle & spares, nails, etc -Tel:614-8564;6800862 4 Cylinder Perkins Engine bedded for Brazilian pump – Tel: 646-4501 Games PS2 $900, PSP $900, X-Box 360 $2600 & PS3 $2600- Call:672-2566 1- 40 foot Cabin Cruiser BoatCall:665-2314 CG125 Honda Motorcycle, excellent condition - Tel:6729530 Lovely Poodle Pups male and female vaccinated – Call:649-4247

Cashiers @ Shell Service Station Providence EBD. Must be able to work shift (5am-3pm & 3pm-12pm) - Tel: 265-7305 Secretary! Send written application to Shakoor Seafood, 80 industrial Site, Eccles EBD Pump Attendant @ Shell Service Station Providence EBD. Must be able to work shift (5am-3pm & 3pm-12pm) Tel: 265-7305

Lumber Factory Manager, Labourers, Lorry Drivers, woodmizer, brandsaw and moulder operators @ Eccles, Industrial Site – Call Richard 609-7675; 233-2614

1 Housekeeper must know to cook @ 223 Camp Street. (3 Storey building next to Shell Gas Station) – Call:644-7724

Food Warmer - Tel:696-9999 Brand New: Power fist Gasoline generators on wheel – 6500 watts – AC (DC) current 110-240 Volts Contact:617-2205 1 Honda Twister – Contact # 671-3533

Security Guard: Requirements: Police Clearance must have NIS, & ID Cards, 2 recommendations, Age: 3545. Call: 642-8140; 642-8650 Host/Hostess & Cleaners – Interested persons can contact us on telephone number:603-4523

ALYEA AUTO SALE: CARINA 212 NEGOTIABLE @ 40 CROAL STREET STABROEK – TEL:2317284; 622-3823 One 800 Ford Tractor and one 450 Ford Towing Truck Contact Floyd:694-5599 or Gurro: 689-1864 One Toyota Prado and Tundra for sale: - Priced to sell – Tel:600-5759 or 225-0683-5 1 Toyota R4 2004 model – $2.6M cash – Tel:686-5083 One Toyota Tacoma 2006, 12ft Aluminum Boat, Tacoma : rims & tyres – Call:6858282; 220-1981; 222-5671 One 2005 Toyota Avensis. Owner leaving country! $3.4M – Tel:628-6160

LAND FOR SALE

Concierge/Security. Apply in person to B.M. Hotels Inc. 123 Kanuku Street, Section ‘M’ Campbellville.

1 20 KVA enclosed generators - call: 675-7838

212, 192, Park Light, lens original – Call:695-0578

At Eccles, East Bank Demerara Price -$38M . Please Contact -780-381-6147 or email:irgopaul@gmail.com

Lot 12 Mon-Repos E.C.D, Market Street - Tel:220-7330

Two Joiners to work in Workshop – Tel:610-7005; 219-1342

House lots on EBD, 1,500 acres @ Berbice, Executive Apartment Complex Contact: 223-8479; 647-3768; 628-1408, www.spaceseek.gy

One 2 Storey property for sale at Covent Garden Island Call: 265-3586

2- Acres cultivated, 2-1 Acres cultivated, 7 Acres cultivated, citrus, house, fish pond, storage at Parika- Call: 226-7968

1 smoothie machine, 2 ice machine- Contact:2310655,683-8734

Houses in Georgetown, ECD & EBD. Investment Properties in Georgetown Commercial land - Contact: 223-8479; 647-3768; 628-1408 www.spaceseek.gy

Situated in Leonora opposite the market – Tel:674-0645

One male cleaner. Apply Alabama Trading Georgetown Ferry Stelling Stabroek.

Hire Car drivers from ECD @ A-1 Taxi – Tel:220-1000

75KVA Generator, 1 Crash Mercedes Benzes/ C200/ 1998-2000, 3 used commercial air condition and AE91 sprinter – Call:223-1589; 2274406

Rice Factory @ Wakenaam & Poultry Farm @ Yarrowkabra Tel: 686-4994; 225-3070

Machine Operator to work at Garment Factory - Tel: 2222541

Original Games - Call:672-2566

2 Trucks - Tel:618-1967; 6984321

Satya Cinema Good Faith Mahaicony – Call:641-8472

VEHICLE FOR SALE

1 Transported large lot @ Tuschen EBE - $2.5M – Tel:617-4439 Private Development 50X100 @ Greenwich Park, EBE Tel: 690-5061 Gold and Diamond mining lands already Prospected – Tel:646-4501 82 Acers @ Hogg Island, 120 acre @ Mahaicony & 11 Lots @ Wakenaam – Tel:6864994; 225-3070 ½ Acre Residential land at Yarrowkabra 5 Minutes of the Linden Highway. Price Negotiable – Call:611-1018 or 642-6564

Toyota Raum PMM Series $1.4M negotiable , Excellent Condition – Call:671-6051 2008 Fielder: Bodykit, spoiler, rims. Unregistered $2.95MCall:617-2891

Mitsubishi Lancer, excellent condition, HID lights, 17" mags, music - $1,250,000. Negotiable – Tel:275-0297; Cell:676-3000; 653-6490 Passo, Fielder, Raum, Premio - Call: 661-9651; 6818474

Unregistered Toyota Fielder , fully loaded – Tel:689-0999; 663-2700

2008 Honda CRV imported from England 17" Rim, fog lamps Surround Sound System, unregistered $6.8M neg. Tel: 642-7295; 220-2345

1 Black Titan 4 wheel drive, fully loaded - $3M negotiableTel:699-2322 or 678-2814 One Fuso Mitsubishi Crane Truck & 3 Ton Crane GPP Series - $5.5M - Call: 622-6746 One Ford Crane Truck & 10 Ton Crane (new) - $8M – Call:622-6746

Parafaite Harmonie - $1.3M Call: 675-7292

White Allion PNN Series, Milleage 70,000, reverse camera, TV, CD, Deck. Price $2.2M Negotiable – Contact: 675-2690

The Gent’s Spa: Let beautiful sophisticated masseuse pamper you: New masseuse available- Call:657-5979

One Carib CRV - Price $1.5M negotiable - Excellent condition- Call: 666-9472; 673-3152

2007 Axio $2.85M, Spacio $2.250M, fully loaded unregistered- Call:617-2891

Toyota Allion, Premio, Spacio, Alex, Runx, Contact Classic Auto Sales - Tel: 6237684; 665-3131

Soman & Sons Driving School , First Federation Building Call 689-5997, 6445166,622-2872,615-0964

Smart Choice Auto: Unregistered: Premio, Runx, IST, Spacio, Fielder - Call: 652-38201; 665-4529

2 Ton open back canter with power gate, unregisteredCall:617-2891

Long Creek $1M, Queenstown 60x244 $100M, 40x80 -$25M - Tel: 231-2199; 618-7483

MASSAGE

First Class Auto: Premio, Spacio, Passo, IST, 212, Raum Cold & New Modles Tel: 609-8188; 602-6307

Unregistered Toyota Sienta (2004) 1500cc & 7 seater - Tel: 617-5536

New ATVs: Introductory price $1,875,000 (Duty Paid)Call:691-0234

Ultravoilet Driving School – Contact:231-2372;6022583;658-4015

1 -1RZ, 15 seater, automatic mini-bus, BNN 3760 - $1.7M Negotiable. Good condition, never used for public transportation – Tel:628-0310 ; 672-5429

Manual Mitsubishi Convertible eclipse. Excellent Condition! - $2M negotiable Call:625-9000

Parafaite Harmonie (100ftX50ft) - $1.8M - Call: 675-7292

LEARN TO DRIVE Shalom Driving School @ 2 Croal street. Fee $16,000Call:227-3869

VEHICLE FOR SALE New 2014 Isuzu: D-Max single & double cabsCall:691-0234

We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 FOR SALE Farm at Yarrowkabra – 20.1 Acres – Call:265-3586

One RX-8 Mazda fully air conditioned, stick gear, wheel lights, fog lamps, power windows - Tel:653-2477 Hilux Surf, PKK Series – Tel:617-3001 1 AT212 new model for sale: AC, CD Deck, alarm , 15inch mags in excellent condition - $1.4M negotiable - Tel: 6697215 AT212 - $1.2M, Spacio $1.9M, Voxy GSS - $2.1M, Sienta Seven Seats - $1.6M, Madza Tribute PSS – Call:661—9651; 681-8474 1 Mitsubishi Galant Car; 1 Toyota Corolla AE100 Car, 1 Honda CBR motorcycle – Call: 227-7544; 612-2542; 614-6011 One Toyota Cresta Mark two, automatic, fully powered - Price $775,000 negotiable. Tel: 623-7684; 665-3131 (Continued on page 23)

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

(From page 22)

Leprosy care being integrated into regional health services Several healthcare providers in the public health sector are being trained to recognize, diagnose and refer persons infected with leprosy to undergo treatment at the Ministry of Health’s Leprosy Clinic. Even though, leprosy is not a widespread infectious disease in Guyana, the Ministry wants to equip at least two medical practitioners in the Regions to ensure every person infected is treated. This is according to Dr. Heather Morris-Wilson, head of the Leprosy Clinic at the opening of a three-day leprosy training workshop being held at the Public Health Reference Laboratory. Participants of the workshop include General Medical Officers, medex, and nurses from various communities including Skeldon, Kwakwani, Grove, and Beterverwagting/ Plaisance. According to Dr. Morris Wilson, leprosy is not a major problem in Guyana but remains a priority because of the damage caused to the infected person. Leprosy is oftentimes mistaken as other skin problems such as ringworm and ‘lotta’. But, even with its various presentations, the most common sign is a rash, lighter than the colour of the surrounding skin with loss of sensation; hence it is termed the “numb spot disease”. Dr. Morris-Wilson said that the longer the infection is undetected the person is more likely to experience complications, for example, chronic ulcers of the feet and blindness, because the bacteria has a preference for the peripheral nerves of the body. She asserted, however, that it is unlikely that a person

could die from leprosy. The Ministry of Health is moving away from the vertical system of providing specialized services to a more integrated approach where services are decentralized, said Dr. Morris Edwards of the Ministry of Health. He said that leprosy, a stigmatized disease, usually affects the poorer section of society who does not really seek treatment. Unaware if the regional health facilities would be treating persons instead of referring, he said in the true scheme of the integrated system treatment should be decentralized. The Ministry’s Leprosy Control Programme is being done in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/ World Health Organization. PAHO’s Representative Dr. Maria Sanchez thanked Dr. Morris-Wilson and team for the work they are doing locally in the global fight to eliminate leprosy. She said although it is not a serious disease like malaria in Guyana, these meetings are relevant to create a network of persons to assist infected persons. Dr. Sanchez noted that PAHO is available to provide support to the Ministry. The lecturers of the Leprosy Training were Dr. Holly Alexander and Dr. Morris-Wilson. The threeday workshop will be focusing on leprosy situation worldwide and Guyana; classification and clinical manifestations; epidemiology; diagnosis; and deformities. VEHICLE FOR SALE Mitsubishi Lancer PHH Series fully loaded. Driven by Lady. Owner leaving country. Price negotiable. Telephone:611-5426 or 2206368 Car for sale PKK Services 100 Corolla - $850,000 Contact: 623-0016

Page 23

TO LET Fully furnished short term apartments, Eccles call: 347933-9790, 639-4452. Fully furnished Vacation home with all amenities- Call during working hours- 2271218 Furnished apartment in Bent Street, Wortmanville – US$30 per day. Contact:2263309;218-1033; 678-4267 Alberttown - $50,000, Bel-Air - $100,000, Campbellville $90,000, Section K – $US1200 – Call Diana: 2272256; 626-9382

FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 CAMP STREET, Prime Business Space Call: 6394499 One Semi furnished apartment to rent at Industry ECD – Tel:222-6001 GT TOOLS RENTAL: TEL:675-0767; 627-2535

Secured Concrete bond 87’X32’, lots of yard space suitable for CarMart Public Road McDoom: Tel: 233-0570

Fully Furnished 2 bedrooms apartment with hot & cold shower,etc. Only short term overseas guest. Contact:223-2812; 661-1717

Furnished Apartments for Overseas Visitors – Contact: 668-5198

1 -Two bedrooms apartment at Better Hope, ECD - Call: 617-3001 between 8:00am4:00pm

Aracari Hotel. West Bank Demerara Rates from US$30 – Tel: 264-2946-8 Furnished executive one or two bedroom suite in Diamond. Ideal for foreigners. Call:609-2466 Fully Furnished 2 bedrooms apartment in South - 6895877 (Overseas or Visitors)

EDUCATIONAL

Commercial Offices in Georgetown, commercial buildings, executive apartments & houses Contact: 223-8479; 647-3768; 628-1408, www.spaceseek.gy 2 Business Stall @ Port Kaituma Market – Tel:6187983; 684-6428 Newly Constructed apartment - WCD - Call: 6986496 1 Newly renovated house @ Eccles Front. 3 Bedrooms upstairs - $90,000 & 2 bedrooms downstairs $80,000, separate entrance & parking – Tel:268-2121

Princeton College Forms 1-5 CXC adults classes, Phonics, Sat, Lessons & Mathematics for slow learners - Tel: 2237906; 690-5008 Learn to decorate with Balloons. Classes on March 1st – Call: 225-3133; 613-7513 for more information.

CAR RENTAL

Need help with reading, English, etc? Call Private Tutor - 696-7467

Dolly’s Car Rental- Call: 2257126/226-3693- dollysauto rental@yahoo.com/ www. dolly sautorental.com

Makeup Classes @ J’ adore Makeup by Natalie. Come register and be apart, its life changing! Call:676-3916; 615-5028

Premio, Vitz call:347-9339790, 639-4452. Wings Car Rental- Call: 643-1131 Untouchable, low rates, low deposits - Call:226-9668; 677-4613. Aidan’s Car Rental & Pickup Call: 645-7981/ 698-7807

Make Up Courses, Artist Trained & Certified in Trinidad. Call: 660-5257, 647-1773

VEHICLE FOR SALE AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN & RZ & Pitbull buses, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call: 680-3154

Beautopia Cosmetology Training: Day & Evening classes, nails, hair,facial / makeup - Tel: 604-3002; 629-3497

One Honda XR 125 Scrambler motorcycle $320,000 negotiable - Tel: 699-7697

SALON

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Repairs, sales & spares air conditioning, microwaves, washer, fridges & stoves. Ultra Cool, call:225-9032,647-2943 Repairs to Fridge, Freezer, AC, Washers, Stoves: Call 683-1312,627-3206 (Nick)

WANTED One Office Clerk must be computer literate. Apply @ Survival Lot 10 Bond Vlissingen Road. 1 Whole day domestic - Tel: 667-5717; 650-4761 Live in housekeeper / babysitter. Must be willing to work, reliable, responsible, mature & Trustworthy. Please Call: 619-2388/ 222-6001

HOUSE PLAN DRAFTING FOR ONLY $10,000CALL:694-9843/227-2766

Female worker needed, 3 CXC subject or sound secondary school education- Call:626-8586

We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer call:2310655,683-8734 Omar

Watch man to work at Lamaha & Albert Street. Contact: 223-5273/4

For all your prefab building works & welding fabricating etc. 5 Brickery EBD -Tel: 6582567; 660-3466

Manager / Supervisor at Xenon Hotel Charity / Ebo. Accommodation provided, attractive salary is offered Contact: 771-4989; 7714180; 670-6559

Chauffeur & Personal assistant for company or own use – Call:687-7017 House plan drafting from$10,000 surveying and estimates services available Tel: 667-2189 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call:225-6496,662-6045, 223-8115

Salesgirl with Secondary Education @ Christine’s Fashion – Tel:227-8529; 6091535 Driver, salesman and porters to work on beverage canter truck – Call:222-4650;2223927;649-9876;616-3802

We Refill HP cartridges for $1800 call: 650-7699

Babysitter/ Housekeeper. To work in Campbellville, Monday – Friday, ages 3040, reference needed. Apply to PO.BOX 101302

Transportation services available in and out of Georgetown – Tel:646-4501

Experienced Hire Car drivers & minibus drivers Call: 645-0025

Masons seeking job work – Tel:678-9043

One welder for grill work Call: 625-5763

Technicians available for appliance repairs – washers, dryers, microwaves, stoves, deep fryers, etc – Tel:6190793; 218-0050

Workers for land Dredge Tel: 694-2310

COOL TECH : Repairs Services & Installation of all types if homes appliances: Air Condition & Refrigeration units – Tel: 2332008; 675-4959 Electrical Repairs & Servicing Done to generators, water pump, washer, dryers, fans, blenders, stabilizers & Transformers (Johnny 619-3194) WE FILL PASSPORT & VISA FORMS: U.S.A, U.K & CANADA. ALSO ONLINE CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS TEL: 225-9030 Specialized in all classes of industrial and domestic work, motor rewind and fixing of generators – Tel:644-9084

One domestic help needed preferably from the East Bank Demerara Areas Contact: 628-5621 Cooks, kitchen Staff to work at snackette in Eccles and Restaurant on WCD – Contact:650-4974; 686-8640 Contract Cars & Hire cars Drivers to work at Gem’s Taxi Services - Call: 627-9424 We pay $1M for land in Parafaite Harmonie- Tel:6757292 FOR HIRE Dump Trucks for hire to transport sand, aggregate, etc and bobcat for rental – Tel:694-1657; 261-6664 All Types of Trucks - Tel: 618-1967 or 698-4321.

Page 24

Kaieteur News

Tuesday February 11, 2014

EU joins fight against domestic violence Grants $39.1M to Merundoi Inc Head of the European Union (EU) delegation in Guyana Ambassador Robert Kopecký and Executive Director of Merundoi Inc Margaret Lawrence yesterday signed a grant contract for the implementation of a project captioned “Modelling and Reinforcement to combat Domestic Violence.” The grant which is funded from the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) 2012-2013 and comes at a cost of EURO 137, 222 ($39.1M). The European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) is a selfstanding financing instrument that provides assistance for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide, and in Guyana specifically aims at assisting civil society to become an effective force for political reform and the defence of human rights. According to the EU “Since 2010, the EU Delegation in Guyana has launched regular calls for proposals under this thematic line and to date has provided grant financial assistance to a total of 22 beneficiaries, totalling approximately EURO 1.4M ($399M).”

Merundoi which is an Amerindian word from the Akawaio tribe, means strength, stamina, courage and hope. It is a local NonGovernmental Organisation established in 2007 and its mandate is to work with its partners towards a Guyanese society where every child has the right to grow up in a safe and secure family and community. According to the European Union the overall objectives of the Merundoi Inc project are “to sensitize men and young boys about the effects of Gender Based Violence (GBV), and encourage them to adopt new attitudes, behaviours and practices that will improve their lives, to educate young people about GBV as a preventive approach with education rooted in genderand rights-based approaches, and to empower women to identify all forms of abuse and to take action to protect themselves.” This, the EU said, will be achieved through the utilization of entertainment and education to raise general awareness leading to raising questions and fostering dialogue that will lead to attitude and behaviour

changes. Ambassador Robert Kopecký stated that “not only does the EU advocate for better protection for victims of domestic violence, the EU also advocates for the eradication of domestic violence in all forms. The rights of vulnerable persons, especially those subjected to the scourge of domestic violence, are particularly important and the Merundoi project seemed particularly appropriate in this regard.” He said that he looks forward to an effective implementation of the project as it complements the existing work on the ground “initiated by the Government of Guyana and other civil society partners.” The Ambassador said that the EU adopted the European Protection Order (EPO) “which will help to protect victims of crime and victims of violence, wherever they go in Europe: the protection will travel with the citizen.” The Ambassador opined that the EPO could be looked at for best practices in combating domestic violence locally. While Executive Director of Merundoi, Margaret Lawrence articulated that

From left: Executive Director of Merundoi Margaret Lawrence and Right Ambassador Robert Kopecký research shows that Domestic Violence crosses racial and socioeconomic lines with “31 women killed in 2012, 24 in 2013 and 4 in January 2014.” According to Lawrence the project will sensitize men and young boys to the effects of Gender Based Violence (GBV), encouraging them to adopt new behaviours; empower women and girls to identify all abuse and protect themselves and facilitate general dialogue leading to behaviour change. She said that work under

Nurse indicted for assaulting social worker A nurse attached to the Linden Hospital Annex has been charged with assaulting the social worker, who was probing a case of her unlawfully injecting her children with insulin. She remains in custody without bail after her first court appearance. Gail De Jonge, a 24-yearold mother of two, pleaded not guilty to the common assault charge before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine Beharry at the city court yesterday. State Prosecutor, Corporal

Vernette Pindar, urged the Chief Magistrate to have her held without bail, saying that she posed a danger to the victim and her children who already suffered at her hands. The charge arose out of an incident on February 7 when the nurse allegedly assaulted social worker, Huette Moore, at the Linden Hospital Complex, Mackenzie, Linden. The Prosecution did not reveal the particulars of the assault but stated that the nature and circumstance through which the charge

International blacklisting looms ... From page 11 2010, the ICRG should now decide whether it wishes to recommend that any of the jurisdictions in its pool be referred for a prima facie review to be discussed in February 2014. “In practice this could be, for example, the top two jurisdictions ranked in one region or in each region, a certain number of jurisdictions ranked at the top of the entire group, or any particular jurisdiction where the ICRG agrees there are particular risks such that a

prima facie review should proceed.” Guyana is atop the list for the Americas Region and is on par with the African Region as it holds the same rating with Mozambique which heads the list for that region. There exists currently, three methods by which a jurisdiction could enter the ICRG process: nomination, referral based on mutual evaluation results and referral based on non-participation in an FATFstyle regional body (FSRB) and non - p u b l i c a t i o n o f mutual evaluation reports.

arose were enough for the court to order the nurse held. On February 7, the nurse was said to have injected her seven and eleven-year-old children with insulin. Following reports of child abuse, Moore, the social worker who was investigating the matter, reportedly approached De Jonge and was subsequently assaulted. The State Prosecutor told the court that the two

children are still hospitalised and further opined that if granted bail she would further attempt to harm the children as well as the social worker. After a four minute court hearing, the case was transferred to the Christianburgh Magistrates Court and is expected to be called for a pretrial hearing before Magistrate Clive Nurse tomorrow (February 12).

Camp Groomes survivors still await word on ... From page 16 men believe that they are “back to square one” where they feel like “we are begging them to help us after we were seriously injured on the job.” The soldiers reiterated that since the mishap in 2000, “it was not until 2012 that we got to see a Chief of Staff; and that was after we stormed his office because they always telling us come back, he not available or sending us away.” The soldiers are again requesting that the army make the necessary compensations and decisions fitting for ranks injured in the line of duty. To date, Cort says he still suffers with hearing problems, hallu-

cinations and is physically weakened. Archer faces some of the same effects while, Samuels says he is physically weakened to the point where his family maintains him. Lewis' legs have not healed; they are infested with worms and still ooze inflammation. The soldiers were asleep when the weapons bond exploded on December 18, 2000. They were part of a 14-man unit guarding the ammunition bond that housed hand grenades, various rifles, guns, booms and a suspected chemical weapon which the government stated, was destroyed at the time.

EU funding will be done in the ten administrative regions with in and out of school females and males; current and former prisoners; men; parents. The general public will be therefore given a voice in preventing violence against women. “It is envisaged that the

grant to Merundoi Inc. will supplement the work already undertaken by other grant beneficiaries locally, and the organization will be working over the next twenty four months towards the effective roll-out of the activities foreseen under the intervention.”

Charles Ramson paid $1.2M a month as ... From page 6 set up a fibre link between Moleson Creek, Georgetown and Parika and a fibre ring within Georgetown to allow for a more efficient communication system. According to Hinds, under the project, a high speed microwave link will also be installed between Moleson Creek, Georgetown and Charity, and a microwave link between Linden and Georgetown. According to Hinds, the microwave network will be an active backup to the fibre network, allowing for the high speed communication between Government offices throughout Guyana. He noted that the microwave network will be managed from the date centre in Georgetown. Under this project, there will be the setting up of a wireless access network allowing for connection of schools, community centres and other government agencies with smaller data requirements.

“The technology being implemented is LTEAdvanced, a 4G cellular technology.” The project is set at US$32M and according to Hinds, “We are within budget with no expected cost overruns.” As it relates to the DWDM fiber optic cable being laid from Brazil, the PM noted that this project had its genesis in 2007 disruption in i n t e r n a t i o n a l telecommunications traffic for approximately three weeks “which caused the Guyanese community to be virtually cut off from the international community.” The Prime Minister said that the project seeks to set up a high capacity, high speed terrestrial fibre network which links into a Brazil fibre which itself is connected to the world network. Hinds maintained that this project is within Budget. “While it has an estimated cost of US$5M…Approximately US$600,000 still remains in the budget.”

Essequibo farmer gets twin calves Rice farmer Abdool Rafick, of Columbia, Essequibo Coast, is encouraged to continue as a farmer after one of his hefiers gave birth to twin calves recently. Rafick said that the cow had to be assisted by a veterinary surgeon. He said that the cow was agitated and was experiencing tremendous pains before giving birth. The identical calves are healthy and are nursing well. Rafick said he is doing everything to keep his animals safe.

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

Police making inroads into Corentyne criminal gang 19 year old charged with multiple robberies The police in Berbice after appear to have put a slap in the face of the Home Affairs Minister after they arrested and charged a suspected bandit and seized a gun and ammunition on the Corentyne. The weapon and ammunition was found in the possession of men who are said to be part of the criminal gang that has been wreaking havoc in the area. The Minister had instructed that the entire Number 51 Police Station be transferred after residents in the area had accused the police stationed there of committing a number of robberies in the area. The image of the force was severely damaged after the accusations and the cops had vowed to do their best to go after the real criminals. Multiple robbery accused Kishan Hemnauth, 19, Lot 160 Section ‘B’ Number 65 Village, Corentyne, was on Monday slapped with six charges of robbery under arms. He appeared before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh at the Whim Magistrate’s Court, was not required to plead to the charges and was refused bail and remanded. The charges read that Hemnauth on December 30, last while in the company of others and armed with dangerous and offensive weapons—guns, knifes and cutlasses at No 56 village Corentyne, robbed Chinese national Zhuoxing Su, Chandee Jagdeo and Kemrai Dindiyal all of No 56 village. During the heist, Hemnauth is accused of robbing Su of one laptop computer valued $120,000; one phone valued at $200,000 and $92,000 in local Currency. During the robbery Jagdeo lost one cellular phone valued $10,000, phone cards to the value of $62,000 and $35,000 cash Guyana currency; Dindiyal was robbed of a cellular phone valued at $40,000. Another charge read on Thursday 24th of January 2014 at No 47 village, Corentyne he robbed Dhanranjie Seenauth of $270,000 and Mark Fernandes one sliver chain worth $4,000 a silver ring valued at $6,000 and a silver hand band valued $2,500. The man is also accused of robbing Vimlawatie Ramdeen of $32,000 Guyana currency, a pair of gold bangles valued $18,000, two gold rings value $40,000, a gold chain costing $20,000 and a gold ring worth $10,000 on January 24, last. Police prosecutor Corporal Althea Solomon objected to bail on the grounds that dangerous weapons were used and

Kishan Hemnauth

allegations of similar nature are being investigated and further charges are pending. Attorney at law Charrandass Persaud appearing for the accused applied for bail on the ground of accused having a fixed place of abode and what is before the court are mere allegations. Bail was subsequently refused and the matter transferred to the No 51 Magistrate’s Court for tomorrow. In the meanwhile, the police narrowly missed a second who was said to be involved in the series of crimes. The police cornered the suspected bandit in a house at No 65 Village Corentyne on Saturday evening about 20:30. However, the suspect managed to flee the scene after shots were reportedly fired. The suspected bandit who is a known criminal in the area reportedly fled leaving a 16 gauge shotgun with one cartridge behind. The arrest and seizure came less than one month after residents had accused police of being involved in the robberies. Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell, Commander Assistant Commissioner Brian Joseph, Regional Chairman David Armogan and a number of Member of Parliaments had descended in the area and kept meetings in an effort to appease the residents.

Jamaica pays down on UN Bill, keeps voting rights (Jamaica Gleaner) Jamaica has now settled a portion of its debt to the United Nations which means the country will not lose its voting rights as well as other benefits. Jamaica had until the end of 2013 to make membership fee payments to the international body or risk losing its voting rights. In response to an Access to Information request by The Gleaner/Power 106 News Centre, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, last week indicated that the risk no longer lingers

after paying to the UN, an aggregated sum of $423,272 or J$44 million last December. However, the Ministry said as at February 5, Jamaica owed the UN and its agencies US$873,205 US$91.6 million Jamaican. The Ministry has not said when the outstanding amount will be paid. At the close of business on Friday, it did not respond to questions whether any deadline had been set. However, the foreign affairs ministry maintains that Jamaica is not at risk of losing

any benefits and or voting rights in any regional or international organisations, because of the delay or nonpayment of assessed contributions.

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Kaieteur News

Europe warns Swiss of consequences after immigration vote (Reuters) - Switzerland could lose its privileged access to the European single market, European officials said yesterday, after Swiss voters narrowly backed proposals to curtail immigration from the EU in a referendum that has unsettled business. The vote on Sunday was initiated by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which has tapped into concerns that Swiss culture is being eroded by foreigners, who account for nearly a quarter of the country’s 8million strong population. Immigration limits were vigorously opposed by Swiss industry and the government in Berne, which is now in the uncomfortable position of having to write the referendum result into law while limiting the backlash from Brussels and big neighbours like Germany and France. “Switzerland has rather damaged itself with this result,” German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier told reporters on arrival in Brussels for a meeting with his EU colleagues. “Switzerland must realize that cherry picking with the EU is not a long-term strategy.” “There will be consequences, that’s clear,” said Luxembourg Foreign

Minister Jean Asselborn. “You can’t have privileged access to the European internal market and on the other hand, dilute free circulation.” Irish Foreign Minister Eamon Gilmore called the result “very disturbing”. “I think we have seen throughout Europe a growth in what I can only call an extreme-right agenda which is quite xenophobic,” he told reporters. Free movement of people and jobs within its borders is one of the fundamental policies of the European Union, and Switzerland, while not a member of the 28-nation bloc, has participated under a pact with Brussels. Since 2002, Swiss and EU citizens have been able to cross the border freely and work on either side as long as they have a contract or are self employed. EU officials said the free movement treaty is part of a package of seven agreements that stand or fall together. The accords also cover economic and technological cooperation, public procurement, mutual acceptance of diplomas and licences, agricultural trade, aviation, and road and rail traffic. “We simply can’t accept these kinds of restrictions, the ones that were approved

yesterday,” said European Commission spokeswoman Pia Ahrenkilde. “This will clearly have implications for the rest of the agreements we have with Switzerland.” TOXIC UNCERTAINTY Businesses say the vote to reintroduce immigration quotas, backed by a margin of just 19,526 voters, threatens a Swiss economy that relies on the EU for nearly a fifth of workers. Switzerland is home to food and beverage giant Nestle, drugmakers Novartis and Roche, as well as a host of major commodities dealers such as Glencore Xtrata and Louis Dreyfus Commodities. Valentin Vogt, president of the Swiss Employers Association, told the NZZ newspaper that the vote created a toxic uncertainty for Swiss business, already under pressure from a crackdown on bank secrecy and outcry over favorable tax rates some Swiss cantons offer multinationals. “What’s the point of investing in Switzerland, when in the end it’s not certain whether you can get qualified staff to carry out your plans?” Vogt asked. Swiss banks including UBS and Credit Suisse are especially dependent on the flow of foreign workers, employing up to 25 percent of staff from the EU.

Tuesday February 11, 2014

U.N. nuclear watchdog sees ‘good’ progress with Iran, much work remains

Chief U.N. nuclear inspector Tero Varjoranta (Reuters) - The U.N. nuclear watchdog signaled its determination yesterday to get to the bottom of suspicions that Iran may have worked on designing an atomic bomb, a day after Tehran agreed to start addressing the sensitive issue. Chief U.N. nuclear inspector Tero Varjoranta said his team made good progress during February 8-9 talks in Tehran but that much work remained to clarify concerns about Iran’s nuclear program in an investigation that Western diplomats say the Islamic state has long stonewalled.

“There are still a lot of outstanding issues,” Varjoranta, deputy director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said at Vienna airport after returning from the Iranian capital. “We will address them all in due course.” Iran denies Western allegations it seeks the capability to make nuclear weapons, saying such claims are baseless and fabricated by its foes. Years of hostile rhetoric and sabre-rattling raised fears of a wider war in the Middle East. But a long moribund diplomatic push to resolve the decade-old dispute picked up steam after last June’s election of a relative moderate, Hassan Rouhani, as Iran’s president on a platform of conciliation to ease its international isolation. In Tehran, Rouhani told a gathering of foreign diplomats that Iran’s doors “are open to the IAEA within international regulations”, the official news agency IRNA reported. “We have never sought weapons of mass destruction. We don’t want nuclear knowhow for war, as some countries do,” he said. Iran and six powers struck an interim deal on November 24 to curb Tehran’s nuclear work in exchange for some relaxation of sanctions that have hobbled the oil producer’s economy and they will start talks next week on a long-term agreement. The IAEA investigation into what it calls the possible military dimensions (PMD) to Iran’s nuclear activity is separate from, but complementary to, the wider-

ranging diplomacy between the Islamic Republic and the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China. The IAEA investigation is focused on the question of whether Iran sought atomic bomb technology in the past and, if it did, to determine whether such work has since stopped. Diplomats say the way the Iran-IAEA talks progress will be important also for the outcome of the big powers’ diplomacy, which the West hopes will lead to a settlement denying Iran the capability to assemble a nuclear weapon any time soon. “Continued progress on resolving PMD issues will go a long way to demonstrate to the international community that Iran is not pursuing nuclear weapons and is willing to come clean about its past activities,” said Kelsey Davenport of the Arms Control Association, a U.S. research and advocacy group. IAEA INQUIRY WILL “TAKE TIME” The IAEA said on Sunday that Iran had agreed to take seven new practical measures within three months under a November transparency arrangement with the IAEA meant to help allay concern about the nuclear program. For the first time and in a potential breakthrough, one of them specifically dealt with an issue that is part of the U.N. nuclear agency’s inquiry into suspected atomic bomb research by Iran, which has repeatedly denied any such ambitions. The IAEA said Iran would provide “information and explanations for the agency to assess Iran’s stated need or application for the development of Exploding Bridge Wire detonators”. Although such fastfunctioning detonators have some non-nuclear uses including in the oil sector they can also help set off an atomic device. The Vienna-based U.N. agency has been investigating accusations for years that Iran may have coordinated efforts to process uranium, test explosives and revamp a missile cone in a way suitable for a nuclear warhead. Faced with deadlock last year in its attempts to get Iran to cooperate with its investigation, the IAEA changed tactics and now seeks to gradually build mutual trust by starting with some of the less sensitive issues, diplomats say.

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

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Second round of Syria talks makes faltering start (Reuters) - A second round of Syria peace talks got off to a shaky start yesterday, with the two sides complaining about violations of a local ceasefire and an Islamist offensive respectively in separate meetings with the international mediator. Ahead of the talks, mediator Lakhdar Brahimi told delegates to commit first to discussing both ending the fighting and setting up a transitional government. The government side said combating “terrorism” - its catchall term for the revolt should be agreed first. In a further bad sign, Brahimi cancelled a planned news conference. During the first round of talks in nearly three years of civil war last month, Brahimi had tried to break down mistrust by focusing on agreeing a truce for a single city, Homs. A three-day pause only began on Friday, and aid workers were fired upon as they evacuated civilians on Saturday. The Syrian Red Crescent said 300 more people had been evacuated yesterday, taking the total to leave the city after more than a year under government siege to around 1,000, and the U.N. said the truce would be extended through tomorrow. The U.N. World Food Programme underlined how far there was to go. “The old city of Homs is just one of 40 besieged communities in Syria. Altogether a quarter of a million people have been cut off from humanitarian aid for months,” it said. A letter from Brahimi given to the delegates over the weekend said the new round aimed to tackle the issues of stopping violence, setting up a transitional governing body, and plans for national institutions and reconciliation. It included a plea: “Will the two sides ... contribute even at a minimum, toward

lessening the manifestations of violence, stopping the use of certain weapons and reaching ceasefires in some areas, even for a short period?” The opposition says a transitional governing body must exclude President Bashar al-Assad. The government says it will not discuss his leaving power. A deep split in the international community over the conflict has entrenched those positions. In a clear bid to overcome that, the U.N. said Brahimi would meet U.S. and Russian officials on Friday. BARREL BOMBS Opposition delegates said they had handed Brahimi their view of what a transitional government should look like and submitted witness statements they said showed the army had fired at the Homs aid convoy. The government blames the rebels. The opposition also said there had been an escalation in the government’s use of “barrel bombs” - oil drums or cylinders packed with explosives and metal fragments and usually dropped from helicopters. It said more than 1,800 Syrians had been killed by them last week, half in rebel held parts of Aleppo. Representatives of fighters on the ground joined the delegation for the first time, a senior opposition member said yesterday, but they did not include the Islamic Front alliance, the biggest faction fighting Assad’s forces. Powerful Islamist groups have denounced the opposition team, made up mainly of political exiles, as traitors, undermining any prospect of lasting peace. The mediator plans to keep meeting the two sides separately in Geneva over the next two to three days in hopes of improving the atmosphere at the talks and aims for a second week

focusing on the continuity of state institutions and reconciliation. The Syrian government delegation urged Brahimi to condemn an Islamist offensive on Sunday which it said killed 42 people in the town of Maan in central Syria populated mainly by Assad’s Alawite sect. Islamist fighters not represented at the talks seized a village in the central province of Hama on Sunday, trying to cut off supply routes

from Damascus to the north. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group put the death toll at 41, 21 of them civilians and the other 20 from the pro-Assad paramilitary National Defence Forces. The government said the dead were mainly women and children and accused the fighters of committing a massacre on the eve of the resumption of peace talks in Geneva. ALQAEDAINFIGHTING

Activists and rebels said an al Qaeda splinter group had withdrawn its forces from Syria’s oil-rich eastern province of Deir al-Zor after days of heavy fighting with its rivals. Islamist opposition groups joined forces with some secular rebel units to fight the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), with whom they have territorial disputes and ideological differences. ISIL, which has attracted many foreign

Islamist militants into its ranks, is a small but powerful fighting force in Syria’s opposition areas. It has alienated many civilians and opposition activists, however, by imposing harsh rulings against dissent in areas it controls, such as beheadings. The civil war which grew from a crackdown on protests against Assad has killed more than 100,000 people, forced millions from their homes, and destabilized neighboring countries.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday February 11, 2014

No ganja growing St. Vincent govt. recalls until it is legal to do so US-based diplomat - Marijuana lobby wants Gov’t to regulate industry

Paul Burke (L) and Delano Seiveright (Jamaica Observer) Jamaica’s first ganja growers association has begun to take shape, but potential members are being advised not to start cultivation of the weed, until the legal green light has been given. The backers of the Ganja Future Growers and Producers Association have proposed that, as a condition of membership, interested parties sign a declaration that “they will not take any part, directly or indirectly, in the growing/cultivation of ganja until there is a legal and regulated framework for the growing of ganja”. The association, which was launched on January 18, is an initiative of the Cannabis Commercial and Medicinal Task Force, the Ganja Law Reform Coalition and the National Alliance for the Legalisation of Ganja, spearheaded by Paul Burke, Delano Seiveright and Paul Chang, with the recent addition of University of the West Indies Principal Professor Archibald McDonald. The reason for the nogrow proposal formulated by the National Alliance for the Legalisation of Ganja was not immediately clear, but there were suggestions yesterday that several parliamentarians on both sides of the House who support decriminalisation or legalisation of ganja, could be in conflict with the law while it remains on the books. Jamaica Observer sources also speculated that growers had stepped up their activities as the hype intensifies and in anticipation of ganja being decriminalised. The National Alliance has also proposed that small ganja farmers, or traditional cultivators as they are being called, get special protection at the outset of establishment of a formal cannabis industry in Jamaica, after fears that big growers could sweep them

aside. “For the first three years of a regulated industry, licences should only be given to plots of one acre or less,” the Alliance suggested. Additionally, “home growers’ licences for medicinal or religious purposes (should) be given at nominal prices for registered property owners to seek licences for up to a maximum of 10 plants to be grown within the precincts of their homes in a fenced area”. It further proposed that: “After the first three years of a regulated industry, that licences be granted up to 15 acres, with the value of licences increasing 150 per cent for each acre over five acres and to a maximum of 15 acres, or alternatively, the license fee should be doubled for each acre over five up to 10 acres and tripled for each acre from 10 to 15 acres, specifically to give smaller farmers a more affordable situation. “Persons with export licences (should) engage their own producers/growers who are licensed, both parties privately negotiating their own terms and conditions of sale and purchase.” The ganja lobby also suggests that, for the first three years of a regulated industry, the Government of Jamaica, through a designated agency, “be the sole exporter of vegetative cannabis to entities/persons with export licences, who would have engaged their own suppliers/growers, who in turn would carry it to the state agency to be inspected, packaged and shipped directly to the exporter, with the Government taking a cess”. “The State (should) significantly increase the penalties for all illegal exportation and persons found with compressed ganja so as not to allow this illegal side of the industry to contaminate the tremendous

potential of a legal and regulated cannabis industry,” the Alliance said. Meanwhile, the Jamaican lobby is impatiently watching the rapid development of the United States marijuana industry, having estimated that a local ganja industry could earn billions of dollars. The two latest states to jump on the ganja band wagon are Hawaii and New Mexico, which are seeking to reform their laws against the weed. Wondering out loud “what exactly is Jamaica waiting for”, Seiveright said that as cashier machines in the US get noticeably busier, politicians there are changing their tune. “Dispensaries are reporting US$20,000 to $40,000 of sale per day. Their only issue is running out of product. None of them can stay open every day, and most are open only three to five days per week,” said Seiveright. He cited US data showing that February’s tax collections in Colorado, the first US state to legalise ganja, would exceed US$250,000 a day, putting it on track to pull in near $100 million annually and outpacing the tax from alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. When Colorado first considered legalising recreational marijuana, it was estimated the first year’s tax take would have been $67 million. “Beyond that, the last several days and weeks have seen a literal cascade of positive developments on the issue, so much so that even US President Barack Obama stated publicly that ganja is no more dangerous than alcohol, and pointed to the unfair state of affairs at the criminal-justice level,” he noted. He said that following Obama’s comments, former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan, former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos and Texas’ Republican Governor Rick Perry spoke strongly about the need for marijuana law reform at one of the world’s most prestigious annual gatherings of leaders, the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. “...We have seen where yet another national NBC/ Wall Street Journal poll in the US has found that a majority of Americans support legalising ganja.

KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent, - The St. Vincent and the Grenadines government yesterday confirmed that it had recalled the deputy head of its New York-based Consul after indicating that he had been involved in activities “outside the scope of his employment” In a brief four-paragraph statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that it had received reports that Edson Augustus, the Deputy Counsel General, had been involved in “activities …inimical to interests of the Consulate General and the Government and People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. “Having subsequently received sufficient confirmation of those reports, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines acted promptly in recalling Mr Augustus with immediate effect,” the statement said.

Edson Augustus Earlier, Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace called on the Ralph Gonsalves government to make a statement regarding Augustus, who was appointed a diplomat in May 2011, three months after he resigned as a Seventh Day Adventist pastor.

“For the last few days in particular, we are hearing grumblings coming out of New York in relation to the St. Vincent mission there. It seems that something has happened and what I am hearing could redound not to the benefit ... (of) St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” Eustace said during his weekly radio programme. “And I would hope that sometime today, the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines can clear the air to stop all these rumours … and to give us the assurance that all senior staff are still in place,” Eustace said, adding that he was not prepared to accept rumours. “I’d like the government to give a very clear position, probably better off today to stop some of the rumours that are circulating on this matter and I am really looking forward to hearing something about that,” Eustace said.

T&T Minister claims under threat from columnist/author (Trinidad Guardian) Government Minister Devant Maharaj says he has been bombarded by threatening text messages from a woman who has been trying to “extort financial favours” from him. He said the fallout with Trinidad Express columnist Shirley Hall has left him no other option but to report it to National Security Minister Gary Griffith. Maharaj told the Guardian that Hall has been using her position in the media to “extort financial favours” from him and when frustrated by his refusal, took to texting him threats on his cellphone. He said Hall was expecting him to purchase her book for his ministry, but when his technical staff shut that down, he has since faced “harassment and threats” from Hall. The messages, which Maharaj forwarded to the Guardian, say he will become a cripple by February 27. The messages spoke about Freemasons and a high priest, who can reverse the curse, if he agreed to meet by February 11. Hall, in a subsequent telephone interview, denied these claims, saying that Maharaj was using his ministerial position and connections to intimidate her and shut her up.

She said the two clashed because Maharaj has been using excerpts from her book, A New Caribbean Homegarden Handbook, in his speeches without her permission and without crediting her for the information. THREATENINGTEXTS However, Hall denied she threatened Maharaj. She said the book was published in 2011 and has been used by ministries and in schools to teach local agriculture issues. Hall said her book was often quoted by people in India and London and they all sought permission. “What makes him different? He feel because he is a minister he could do what he wants?” she said. Maharaj has since sent copies of the offending texts to both Griffith and Health Minister Fuad Khan. “I sent the texts to the Health Minister because I believe the woman may be in need of psychiatric assistance,” Maharaj said. “She cannot deny sending me those texts, I have them saved on my phone for anyone to see,” he said. The texts are somewhat obscure, containing no punctuation, several spelling errors and stating that he already consumed a “bad potion” that would leave him

Devant Maharaj numb from the neck down. Maharaj said Griffith would advise him on his next step, which would likely lead to a police investigation. UNHINGED “The whole thing is unhinged,” he said. When asked about the charges of plagiarism, Maharaj said he “did not know the woman’s book at all” and as such could not quote or cite from it. He said he was not afraid of the pending legal action fro m t h e a u t h o r. “ I ’ m saying let her bring the proof that I stole her work...I have proof that she threatened me when I refused to use her book,” he said.

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

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Rose Hall Town Jammers, NA BONNER HOPING TON... Warriors score wins in Anamayah... From page 35 ended in a 5-5 deadlock. The same trend continued in the second segment but the Warriors were able to up their game to take a two point lead to nose ahead 15-13. Warriors seemed more determined and prepared to war as they upped their game to take a five point advantage at the end of the third quarter which ended 30-25. The fourth quarter was all the Warriors’, as Rockers tried gamely to stay in the contest. In the end the Warriors ran away winners by 10 points 42-32. National player Carlos Crandon was outstanding for

the Warriors with a game high 14 points including nine from the three point range. Leroy Edwards supported with nine points. Hugh Arthur scored eight, and Martin Witherspoon and Robert Esseboom with seven each top scored for Rockers. The game was graced with the presence of the newly elected president of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) Nigel Hinds and president of the Berbice Amateur Basketball Association (BABA) Mr. Keith Myers. Mr. Hinds took the opportunity to congratulate the players and encour-

aged them to continue playing. He also presented a pair of sneakers to Coach of the Warriors, Kirk Fraser to give to a player of his choice. Whistles were also given to the referees who officiated in the game. The competition is expected to continue tomorrow with New Amsterdam Warriors taking on East Canje Knights in what is expected to be a keenly contested game. A win for the Warriors will take them to the semifinals, while a win for the Knights will leave all three teams with one win each; the two with the best average going through.

From page 32 Bernard Jr. But Griffith gave away his start, cutting Andre Russell to third man after using up 75 balls for 37. It was a quick pair of strikes from the all-rounder that brought Jamaica back into the contest, as he also had Robin Bacchus edge behind. That started the slide, as Leon Johnson tried to step up the scoring before Lambert got him lbw, while Bernard’s gamble of bringing on parttimer John Campbell worked, as he bowled hard-hitting Christopher Barnwell in his one expensive over. But the prized scalp of Chanderpaul belonged to Cottrell, the soldier saluting with gusto after the usually ever-patient batsman whipped a ball to short fine leg after a 101-ball 65 (two fours, three sixes).

That knocked the wind out of Guyana, who had to bank on Assad Fudadin (21 off 33) and all-rounder Royston Crandon to take them home. That duo departed in the space three overs, Crandon punished for a suicidal run attempt, and Fudadin, for taking the aerial route off Cottrell. Guyana still got within earshot Veerasammy Permaul (17 not out; 13 balls, one four, one six) edging them close, but the equation was too much with the pressure from Jamaica as they folded for 233. That Jamaica had enough to defend was due to the enterprise of Bonner, who saw himself at the crease soon after Jamaica won the toss and chose to bat. The No.3 batsman and Andre Mc

Mancuso medals again Tuesday February 11, 2014 ARIES (MAR. 21APRIL 20) You’ll be able to break bad habits if you put your mind to it. Try to be patient and understanding. Confusion regarding other people’s money and joint ventures will come to a head. TAURUS (APR. 21MAY 21) Involvement in fitness clubs will be conducive to engaging romantic connections. Your ability to get the job done will result in added responsibility and possible promotion. Do not make rash decisions about your personal life. GEMINI (MAY22-JUNE 21) Try not to say the wrong thing at the wrong time. You may experience setbacks due to additional responsibilities with loved ones. Don’t let your emotions interfere with your professional integrity. CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) You will have a blowup today if your partner does things that you feel are not aboveboard. Don’t expect romantic encounters to be lasting. You may need to make a choice. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Money may slip through your fingers. Emotionally you won’t see things accurately. Your doubt could lead to insecurity. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) Think twice before you volunteer information. You may need a physical outlet that will help you relieve your tension. Opportunities will develop through those you encounter while attending organizational events.

LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) Get more involved in group efforts at work. Try to curb your bad habits. Don’t overspend on entertainment, on children, or make poor investments. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) Don’t make those you live with feel unloved or unworthy. Today is not the day to try to comer people by giving them ultimatums. You will be subject to pushy individuals if you get involved in uncertain organizations. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Travel or short trips will probably be your best outlet. Don’t overspend on luxury items. Be sure you get accurate information. CAPRICORN (DEC. 22JAN. 20) Heed the advice given by family or old reliable friends. Lay your cards on the table regarding your personal direction. You can make money if you concentrate on producing services that will make domestic chores easier. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) Rewards, gifts, or money from investments or taxes can be expected. You are best to put your efforts into redecorating or inviting friends over. Don’t argue with family. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) Don’t gamble unless you can afford to lose. Spend time by yourself to avoid any conflicts with family members. Make sure all of your travel and driver’s documents are in proper order.

From page 33 their strongest discipline she held her own. “The Olympics is really my redemption. The moment that I can make my season better,” she said. GAME CHANGER “I skied my heart out,” Mancuso said of her slalom run. “I definitely had moments in my mind when I was thinking this is definitely not going to be good enough but keep fighting. “I knew where to let it run on that last pitch and surprise! I looked up and got a medal.” Mancuso has always been a ‘big event’ skier, someone who can never be ruled out at Olympics or world championships even when others are more in the limelight. Monday, under the floodlights of the Rosa Khutor slalom piste, the Squaw Valley skier once again demonstrated just what a competitor she is. “She is everything you want your athletes to be,” said Bill Marolt, president of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association. “You think about what she did today to get this medal ... she’s a game changer.” Women’s head coach Alex Hoedlmoser said she was someone who radiated positive energy and rose to the occasion. “She really sucks up the energy going into those games. She gets super-excited and it just fills her up with the energy,” said the Austrian. “She goes to the opening ceremony and talks to the other girls, like ‘You girls have got to go because this is the greatest thing and it’s going to amp you up’.

“She is just a true champion and knows how to perform at big events and how to get excited.”

Carthy tried to revive the innings with a 52-run partnership after they lost the top three, including Tamar Lambert (seven). When McCarthy succumbed to Permaul, Bonner kept going, his one chance offering a catch that Devendra Bishoo put down at mid-on. Despite little help from Carlton Baugh and skipper Dave Bernard (both eight), Bonner, encouraged by cameos from Andre Russell (14, one four, one six) and Nikita Miller (20 not out, two fours) battled on. Miller and Bonner took the momentum away from Guyana with 73 runs in the last 5.5 overs—the latter launching sixes straight and to midwicket. In the end, the runs proved just enough to leave the Jamaicans unbeaten and atop Group A. They will play the Group B runners-up tomorrow, which was decided by yesterday’s encounter between Barbados and Leeward Islands.

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Tuesday February 11, 2014

:: :: :: Letter to the Sports Editor :: :: ::

The illustrious BCB is correct to challenge the legality of the GCB elections DEAR SPORTS EDITOR, It is quite extraordinary that Robin Singh has arrogated to himself the right to respond to a letter by the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) to the Hon. Dr. Frank Anthony. That letter referred Dr. Anthony to the anomalous situation in which Neil Kumar, Director of Sport, has been officially representing the Government of Guyana (GoG) at events of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) in spite of the GoG’s stated position of the illegality of the GCB. I wish to remind Robin Singh that the GoG got involved in the ongoing cricket fiasco only because a constituent member of the of the GCB, the Berbice Cricket Board, as well as the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) and the East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) requested the involvement of the Government to bring order and accountability to the chaos that has engulfed or national game with charges of illegal elections, impropriety and blatant disregard of court

orders. I also wish to remind Robin Singh that thirteen of the fourteen members of the very Guyana Super-50 team which he noted has advanced to the Regional Semi-Final Tournament came from these areas – Berbice, Georgetown and East Coast which the GCB has vindictively ostracized. These areas have not been given any financial assistance from the GCB which continues to receive large sums of monies from the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) for cricket development throughout Guyana. Robin Singh is being overly mischievous when he refers to Mental Hospital as a phantom club. Mental Hospital is a founding member of the BCB which is now seventy-five (75) years in existence. Mental Hospital continues to participate in competitions of the BCB including the 2013 competitions. If Robin Singh is interested in phantom clubs, he should check on the elections held for the West Demerara Cricket Association

(WDCA) and the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association (EBDCA) where the majority of the legitimate clubs in those two (2) areas were deliberately not invited to their respective Annual General Meeting (AGM) so that a very small band of individuals could take over those Associations. Robin Singh must also know that illegal elections of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) were held in clear violation of court orders and without the GCA and the ECCB. Interestingly, only two persons (Anand Sanasie and Rajendra Singh) of the purported Executive of the DCB are known to the public. The rest are phantom members. The Illustrious Berbice Cricket Board is Correct to Challenge the Legality of the Elections of the Guyana Cricket Board. Robin Singh proceeds to make an outlandish statement “No decent citizen can support the Cricket Bill in its present form”. The Cricket Bill was crafted by a Special Select Committee of Parliamentarians

representing the three political parties. Over a four-month period, this Committee worked diligently and received and analyzed contributions from a wide cross-section of persons and organizations including the purported Guyana Cricket Board and the purported Demerara Cricket Board. All Guyana, except Robin Singh and a handful of persons, have expressed full support for the Bill as the only proper and sanitized method to stop the malaise that has consumed our national game. The Bill will pave the way for fair and legitimate elections, accountability and transparency at all levels in the cricket structure of Guyana. Robin Singh can then campaign for whoever he wants to hold the reins of Guyana cricket but the new system will ensure good order and fair play and that is the clear objective of the Government and the Opposition in Parliament. Yours truly, Priya Baichan-Persaud Educator

Roger Harper continues to serve Guyana with excellence

DEAR SPORTS EDITOR, After a perusal of cricket clubs and organizations, I have not come across the name “Intikhab Sankar” either as a player or an administrator at any level. I can only assume his passing interest in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) is to support Anand Sanasie whom he admits to knowing very well and respects. Intikhab Sankar claims that Anand Sanasie has always stood up for his principles and what he believes in but Sankar must be aware that his friend has presented conflicting information in two separate

affidavits in a cricket matter before the Supreme Court and has faced other legal issues. Sankar conveniently ignores the important point expressed by Bhawan Mc Coon that if he (Sankar) is interested in cricket why has he not expressed concern with the charade that passed as elections of the West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA)? None of the clubs on the West Coast of Demerara were invited and only five of the fourteen clubs of the WDCA participated in what could only be described as fraudulent elections. Sankar may also want to

GUMDAC Open badminton tourney on this weekend The GUMDAC Annual Open Badminton Doubles Tournament is scheduled to be contested this weekend at the Queen’s College Badminton Courts. All the top players are expected to compete in this tournament which is the first for the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) to open the season for 2014. Entries close tomorrow, Thursday 13th of February, at 6:00pm. The National Sports Commission’s annual Mashramani age group tournament is also scheduled for the 21-22 of February.

explain why year after year there is no cricket being played on the West Demerara and there is no cricket development programme even at the youth level. Yet Sankar has the temerity to question Roger Harper’s leadership as it relates to the GCA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) which even being held late will be attended by all its constituent members and will stand up to scrutiny. Apart from the elections held on the West Demerara which installed Sanasie as a Vice-President, Sankar may want to check on the elections of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) where two court orders were blatantly disregarded. Then he may want to find out how were the elections of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) held when there was no legitimate Demerara Cricket Board. With Berbice being absent, the Essequibo Cricket Board could not alone hold elections of the GCB. Sankar may also want to enquire of his friend Sanasie as to his involvement in the elections of the Essequibo

Cricket Board, the Leguan Cricket Association and the East Bank Cricket Association where he was the “Returning Officer”. Sanasie is now actively campaigning in the upcoming Georgetown Cricket Association AGM and is even aspiring to be the Returning Officer there also. Sankar challenges Roger Harper to respond to him. I am quite sure that Roger, being the dignified gentleman that he is and who has played the game with distinction at the highest level, will answer Sankar and Sanasie in the most appropriate way – with continued progress and development of cricket in Georgetown by dint of commitment and unquestionable experience and hard work. In closing, I wish to remind Intikhab Sankar that Roger Harper is a national hero and was bestowed with a “Medal of Service” for his outstanding and distinguish service to the game of cricket. Yours faithfully, Chandraballi Ramsaroop Former youth cricketer.

Bulkan wins Players Cup Golf tourney as Underdogs secure team title George Bulkan shot an impressive net 63 to win the Citizens Bank Players Cup and piloted his team, the Underdogs to victory in the GT Beer Team Challenge in the Banks DIH Limited/ Citizens Bank Inc. sponsored one-day Golf tournament at the Lusignan Golf Club Sunday. Forty four golfers braved tough conditions due to recent rainfall leading up to the LGC 2014 season opener, but Bulkan (net 63 ) and his teammates Troy Cadogan (68), Ronald Bulkan (86) and Kassin Khan (74) had a combined best net of 291 in the closely contested fourmember team match. The best gross of the day, 72 was recorded by former three-time Guyana Open champion Avinash Persaud. Jaguars comprising Jerome Khan, Imran Khan, Jack Harry and Matti Wesselin copped the second position with net 292, while Pasture Warriors spearheaded by Hamesh Tewari, Ravi Persaud and David Harry chalked up net 293 for third place.

Bulkan became the fourth player to win the prestigious Citizens Bank Players Cup joining previous winners Mohanlall Dinannauth, Andre Cummings and Patrick Prashad. President of the Lusignan Golf Club Jerome Khan said the tournament was a great success and he thanked Citizens Bank and Banks DIH Limited for sponsoring the event during the presentation ceremony. He said the two companies have undertaken to sponsor the tournament annually. Citizens Bank Senior Credit and Marketing Manager Lindel Harlequin said his company was pleased to be associated with the tournament, while Banks DIH Communications Manager Troy Peters said the event provided the perfect start to the Lusignan Golf Club’s 2014 season. The tee off was done by Citizens Bank Managing Director Eton Chester, while Clifford Reis, Chairman of both Banks DIH and Citizens Bank was among the golfers in action.

Hercules to captain EB E’bo in ECB\Busta festival All-rounder Ryan Hercules will captain East Bank Essequibo in the upcoming Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) 50 overs Busta festival. Kevon Boodie will serve as his deputy. The full squad reads; Ryan Hercules (Capt.), Kevon Boodie (v.capt.), Mark Braithwaite, Kemol Savory, Mahendra Mahase, Hemchand Persaud, Rajiv Balgobin, Edwin Burnette, Michael Goberdhan, Ryan Adams, Javed Shafeek, Sheldon Alexander, Lawrence Peterson and Quincy Jones. Vibert Johnson (Coach) and Leroy Halls (Manager).

Kemol Savory

Final countdown as... From page 26 (52kgs) and Delon Charles (56kgs), while the two females are Dwon Thompson and Theresa London, both tipping the scales at 75kgs. The St Lucian boxers are light/welterweight Lyndell ‘The Russian’ Marcellin, welterweight Ron Bastien and middleweight Arthur Langillier, while Trinidad’s representatives are female, Chimbre Taylor (75kgs), Akmal Strode (52kgs),

Christian McDonald (56kgs), Michael Alexander (60kgs), Jean Paul Cooper (64kgs), Akiel Outram (69kgs) and Aaron Prince (75kgs). The Jamaicans are Patrick Sahadeo (60kgs), Anthony Clarke (64kgs), Kestna Davis (69kgs) and Michael Gardner (75kgs). The boxers are winding down training sessions and are encamped at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

4 nation Caribbean boxing championships...

Final countdown as local pugilists gear up for fistic duties

Some of the Guyanese boxers going through their paces on Sunday at the Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis Gym.

The days are ticking down to hours; the hours to minutes and the minutes to seconds as Guyanese boxers get ready to reassert their dominance on the Caribbean platform when they square off with their counterparts from St Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica when the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) presents two nights of fistic fury in the 4-nation boxing championships at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) February 14-16 next. The overseas teams are scheduled to arrive in Guyana Thursday morning and the action gets underway one day later. The local team consists of the best pugilists, under the tutelage of Terrence Poole, Sebert Blake, Wensel Thomas and Cuban coach, Francisco Hernandez Roldon and from all appearances those coaches have really worked relentlessly to ensure

that their charges attain the best form ever. This was apparent when the boxers were taken through their paces at the Andrew Lewis Boxing Gym Sunday morning last. The coaches surrounded the ring while the boxers engaged in sparring sessions with members of the former group noting their weak and strong areas, while correcting and/or offering praises and advice as was necessary. The boxers all appear to be in top shape and are oozing confidence of overwhelming their Caribbean counterparts. There were mini slugfests as Imran Khan, Clairmonte Gibson, Bert Braithwaite, Eon Bancroft and Ron Smith among others, engaged in delightful exchanges that brought smiles to the coaches’ face. Michael April fights out of Berbice and for someone who has only recently entered the

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FAPC, HQ take Brumell 10\10 softball male and female titles

The winning Head Quarters side exhibits their prize

fistic arena, his level of fitness and his obvious skillful displays are indeed impressive. The two selectees out of the Republican Boxing gym, Stephon Nedd and Anandan Dhanraj, were impressive during last Friday’s workout and both pugilists look ready to uphold the rich tradition established through the exploits of their predecessors, the late Winston ‘Service’ Richards, Allan ‘Redbelly’ Housner and Patrick Best among others. The organizers have gone to extra mile and will take the bouts into supporters’ home through live broadcast complements of the National Communication Network (NCN) but this should not negate broad based support and patrons are encouraged to trek to the venue to offer live support to local pugilists. The other members of the local team are Junior Henry (Continued on page 26)

Members of the victorious FAPC team display their trophy By Zaheer Mohamed Felix Austin Police College (FAPC) and Head Quarters (HQ) captured the male and female titles respectively when the curtains came down on the Leroy Brumell 10\10 softball competition on Sunday night last at the Police Sports Club ground Eve Leary. FAPC defeated Immigration by 15 runs in the male final. Batting first FAPC scored 105-4 in 10 overs. Jason Mc Almont top scored

with 38 which contained three sixes, while Kelsey Archer supported with 23 (1x6,2x4). Troy Benn, Orin Parris and Jabary Joseph claimed one wicket each. Immigration, who drew the bye to the final, replied with 90-8 in 10 overs. Joseph made 22 (3x6) while Parris chipped in with 10; Mc Almont took 2-13 for the winners. FAPC overcame Tactical Service Unit (TSU) by 21 runs in the semi-final. FAPC

Meanwhile, officials of the AAG have acknowledged awareness of the elections but said that the process will only be completed when those officials would have satisfied the criteria of registering the club with the parent body. Meanwhile, officials of the Roadrunners Track and Field Club have expressed gratitude to President Donald Ramotar for support rendered leading up to the elections. Several other entities and individuals also came in for

high praise including Major General (ret’d), Norman McLean, Lt Col (ret’d) Larry London, Compton Mendonca, Dr. Carl Max Hanoman, Director of DeSinco, Frank DeAbreu, Director of Youth and Sports, Neil Kumar, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Les Ramalho, Rudy Grant, Noble House Seafoods, Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall, GT&T, Vic Inshanally of Guyenterprise, Director of Marketing (Banks DIH), George McDonald and Marco Trading.

Diallo Jamal Shabazz assumes helm at Roadrunners Track and Field Club AGM Diallo Jamal Shabazz was elected unopposed to the helm when the Roadrunners Track and Field Club held its Annual General Meeting at the Y.M.C.A, Thomas Lands, Friday, February 7 last. Former Vice President, National boxing coach, Wensel Thomas, declined a nomination to retain his position citing strong commitments in the boxing field, but nevertheless accepted the less demanding portfolio of Organizing Secretary making way for Allison Tinnis to fill that

portfolio, while Royston McDonald is the 2nd Vice President. The Secretary is Shelton Beckles while the treasurer is Narine Ramroop. Marilyn Gibson has been elected as the Assistant Secretary Treasurer with Rawle Franklyn filing the post of Public Relations Officer. The Committee Members are Nigel Siland, Eusi Harlequin, Terrence Alleyne and Kenneth Assanah. Virlyn Gibson, an U14 Silver Medalist high jumper at the 2013 National School

Championship, was appointed Club Captain, while Shabazz, Thomas, Royston McDonald, Narine Ramroop and Nigel Siland are the appointed coaches with Major General (Ret’d) Norman McLean filling the esteemed position of patron of the club. The Committee members are Rawle Franklyn, Nigel Siland, Eusi Harlequin, Terrence Alleyne and Kenneth Assanah. Former AAG President, Claude Blackmore, is the Technical Director.

posted 116-5 in 10 overs, batting first. David Rodwell stroked 51 which included five sixes and two fours and Marlon Looknauth made 29 (3x6). TSU managed 95-6 in 10 overs in response. Linden Mc Koy led with 32 (2x6,2x4) and Travis Fullington scored 24 (1x6,2x4). Nathaniel Gittens captured 2-6. HQ got the better of A Division in the female final. HQ, who drew the bye to the final, scored 88-5 in 10 overs after taking first strike. Fiona Ward slammed 27 with two fours while Reneka Isaacs made 19 (1x4) and Stacy Wilson 14 (1x4). A Division could only muster 44-5 in 10 overs in reply. A Division triumphed over FAPC by 41 runs in the semis. A Division rattled up 96-4 in 10 overs, batting first, while FAPC scored 55-6 in their reply. Meanwhile, in an exhibition game before the finals, Floodlight beat Police Officers by 33 runs. Floodlight batted first and scored 160-3 in 15 overs with Rickey Deonarine leading the way with 63 and Richard Persaud scored 49. Police Officers replied with 127-5 in 15 overs. S. Reid and L. Lord made 31 and 29 respectively.

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Kaieteur News

NAGICO Regional Super50 cricket...

Bajans beat Leewards by 4 wickets, face Guyana Malta Supreme in 2nd Semi-final By Sean Devers in Trinidad In Association with Digicel, Carib Beer, Giftland Office Max, Payless Variety Store & Leisure Inn & Car Rentals Barbados topped zone ‘B’ with a 4-wicket beating of bottom placed Leeward Islands in the final preliminary round of the NAGICO Regional Super50 cricket contest at Queens Park Oval yesterday and will now face Guyana Malta Supreme in the second semi-final on Thursday. The Leeward Islands last won the title in 2011 when they shared it with Barbados after the Final ended in a tie, but this time they finished the eight-team tournament without a point, losing every game in one of their worst tournaments at this level. Only 23-year-old left hander Kieran Powell who has three Tests centuries from 20 Tests since making his debut in Dominica in 2011, showed any resistance to offspinner Ashley Nurse (6-29) with a 65-ball 34, as the Leewards were skittled out for 103 in 39.5 overs. Barbados who reached 34-1 by dinner but struggled to reach 104-6 off 34.5 overs to register a less than convincing four-wicket win with 15.1 overs to spare.

Powell and Montcin Hodge (14) put on 46 for the first wicket but once spin was introduced on a dry track which offered prodigious turn and bounce, the Leewards barley managed to reach a triple figure score with nobody else except Devon Thomas (17) getting into the teens. When Powell was trapped in front to the 25-year-old Nurse, who played two t20 matches for the West Indies, the Leewards were 59-2 and still very much in the fight to stage an upset win and give CCC a lease on life. But the once promising Sylvester Joseph was run out for a second ball duck as he drove to Jason Holder at midoff, the slide started. Holder’s direct hit ended a horrendous tournament for the 35-yearold former West Indies Test batsman who scored just four runs in his three matches. From 59-3 at Joseph’s demise the Leewards lost Mali Richards when he edged Nurse to the Keeper at 74-4. The son of the legendary Vivian Richards laboured for 34 balls and 42 minutes for his seven runs. After losing Jahmar Hamilton (10) at 92-5 the Leewards suffered an all too familiar collapse and lost their next five wickets for three runs with left-arm spinner Suleiman

Benn supporting Nurse with 2-15. When Barbados, hunting their sixth title, began their reply a handful of people watched as the Bajans were taken to 51-2 before Rashidi Boucher (25) was LBW to leg-spinner Anthony Martin. But while Test opener Kraigg Brathwaite continued to demonstrate excellent temperament in his unbeaten 29 which lasted 98 balls, Barbados almost made a meal of the small score. Jonathon Carter (3) was LBW to Martin at 61-3 and Kevin Stout (13) fell to Lionel Baker at 74-4. Baker soon got rid of Shane Dowrich (2), while Kelbert Walters bowled Carlos Brathwaite (12) in quick succession. But the total was just too small to defend as Nurse (3*) and Kraigg Braithwaite ensured their team copped a bonus point from their win. Baker, Martin and Walters had two wickets each for the Leewards. The first semi-final will see the host team coming up Jamaica tomorrow. Scores: Leeward Islands 103 (Kieran Powell 34, Ashley Nurse 6-29, Sulieman Benn 2-15) Barbados 104-6 (Kraigg Brathwaite 29 not out, Rashidi Boucher 25, Anthony Martin 2-8, Kelbert Walters 2-10).

Windies demolish Afghanistan by 9 wickets in warm-up DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) - West Indies Under 19s scored a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Afghanistan Under 19s on Monday in a warm-up game ahead of the ICC Under-19 World Cup here. Afghanistan were bowled out for 84 runs in 39.4 of the allotted 50 overs while the Caribbean side surpassed the target in 18.4 overs, losing one wicket at ICC Academy Ground No 2. Captain Ramaal Lewis, Ray Jordan and Jerome Jones grabbed three wickets each as the young Afghans crumbled without much of a fight. Opener Usman Ghani topscored with 27, tailender Muslim Musa chipped in with 24 while the only other player to pass single digits was Nasir Ahmadzai with 12. A solid opening partnership between Shimron Hetmyer and Tagenarine Chanderpaul yielded 50 runs and carried West Indies

Shimron Hetmyer within sight of victory. It ended when Chanderpaul was caught on 19 after facing 32 balls and hitting three fours. Jeremy Solozano joined Hetmyer and in a 35-run stand carried West Indies to victory with 188 balls remaining. Hetmyer was not out on 46 which included six fours and Solozano, who struck a boundary, was unbeaten on 13. West Indies begin their campaign in the ICC Under19 World Cup against South Africa in Dubai, on Friday.

ICC Under-19 World Cup warm-up action results: Aust U19 195 v Zim U19 196/ 7 (48.3/50 ov) Zim U19 won by 3 wickets (with 9 balls remaining) B’desh U19 281/9 v PNG U19 116 (40.3/50 ov) B’desh U19 won by 165 runs Canada U19 119 v NZ U19 120/5 (35.5/50 ov) NZ U19 won by 5 wickets (with 85 balls remaining) England U19 281/4 v Scot U19 128 (39.4/50 ov) England U19 won by 153 runs India U19 209 v S Lanka U19 212/5 (48.5/50 ov) S Lanka U19 won by 5 wickets (with 7 balls remaining) Namibia U19 204/8 v S Africa U19 205/5 (47.3/50 ov) S Africa U19 won by 5 wickets (with 15 balls remaining) UAE U19 101 v Pakistan U19 102/0 (17/50 ov) Pakistan U19 won by 10 wickets (with 198 balls remaining)

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Bishop - Play more cricket in Tobago Trinidad Express - Port of Spain, Trinidad - ESPN commentator and former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop says that more cricket needs to be played outside of Port of Spain to attract the big crowds and give cricketers encouragement. Bishop, speaking to WICB media, said hosting NAGICO Super50 matches at Shaw Park should have happened some time back. “Long overdue,” he said.” It is long overdue that more regional cricket isn’t played in Tobago. Whenever you go to Tobago even to South Trinidad you will get a full house because people haven’t seen that much cricket. They’re interested but they can’t travel long distances to watch, so I think more cricket needs to be played there so that more development will take place and there will be more encouragement for the local players.” Bishop praised the tournament for its good scores after the first two rounds. “There have been some good things. I liked what I saw from some of the batsmen, Keddy Lesporis’ hundred Jonathan Carter’s hundred is

Ian Bishop the highlight of the tournament so far, and one or two other bits and pieces here and there. (There was) also some disappointing things as well. For example, Windwards batting in the tournament has been disappointing and one or two other teams, Trinidad and Tobago and Leewards Islands as well, so I am seeing some improvements but I am also seeing again where we need to improve,” he said. Bishop said that the batting has been good in patches and bigger scores are what he wanted to see from this tournament. Bishop was also pleased by the performances of former West Indies middle order batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan

and pacers Ronsford Beaton and Jason Holder, of whom he is a great fan. “He just continues to grow from strength to strength,” he said of Holder. “Ronsford Beaton is the one I am hoping has a good tournament and guys like Quinton Boatswain are going to get the chance to be exposed to a wider audience here and it is good that some of the old senior guys, Dwayne Smith is getting some runs. I want to see Ravi Rampaul and Sunil Narine play their part as well, so I think it is a case where we might see the normal teams if weather permits back in the semi-finals and finals,” Bishop added.

BONNER HOPING TON WILL LEAD TO WI PICK Trinidad Express -Port of Spain, Trinidad - Jamaica have finished the Nagico Super50 Group A with a perfect record, but captain Dave Bernard Jr is not satisfied with Saturday’s confidence-boosting ten-run win over Guyana at Queen’s Park Oval. After the match, Bernard Jr said Jamaica’s total of 243— following a sluggish start that led them to 72 for three after 25 overs—could easily have been chased by Guyana. “We were a little bit tentative in our approach at first, and we were slow to show our intentions. After we showed that we wanted to get on top of the Guyanese bowling I think it was a different game. We got to 243 with a lot better approach,” he said. “…But we let the Guyanese bowl at us for most of the innings and I think that curtailed the flow…we were fortunate enough to win the game, but if our approach was better we could have compiled a lot bigger innings and put the bowling under a lot less pressure.” Player of the Match Nkrumah Bonner, who was the difference of the two innings when no other

Nkrumah Bonner

Jamaican got past 27, was also elated to get his second regional ton. Said Bonner: “I was determined to make a hundred in this competition. It was very important for me as a young player to make a hundred to knock on the door for a West Indies (pick). In the process of making a hundred I know my team was still struggling so I had to bat to the end and I did that and I’m happy that we got the victory.” With two crucial cogs missing from their batting lineup in Ramnaresh Sarwan

and Narsingh Deonarineboth out with the flu-Guyana would have recognised the value of a good start, especially given the poor record of teams batting second. They got one, with Trevon Griffith and veteran Shiv Chanderpaul opening with an 88-run stand. They batted with patience, although Chanderpaul showed himself willing and able to dispatch bad balls with almost nonchalant sixes off pacers Sheldon Cottrell and (Continued on page 29)

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

Mancuso medals again Julia Mancuso

ROSA KHUTOR, Russia (Reuters) - Just before setting off for Monday’s Olympic supercombined event, Julia Mancuso received a message from the U.S. team media officer telling her to bring podium clothes because she was going to need them. The skier, who has not stood on a podium in the World Cup since March last year, decided instead to leave them packed and ready in her room, telling herself: “You know, I’m not going to bring them but I know I’m

going to get a medal.” The most successful U.S. female Olympic Alpine skier of all time should have listened to her team. By the end of the day, after setting the fastest time in the downhill leg and then battling down a tricky slalom hill that claimed several other top names, she was heading off down the mountain to collect a bronze medal. In the process, the 29year-old became the first American woman to stand on an Alpine podium at three successive Olympics and

completed her set of gold, silver and bronze with the fourth medal of her career. She also proved the power of positive thinking. “It’s been a really tough season for me and I’ve always just had that real belief that I can do it,” she told reporters after wild celebrations at the finish. “For me it’s putting out these dreams and beliefs that I can come in here and get a medal and everyone being a little skeptical and just knowing in my heart that I can do it. “It was kind of like crossing the finish line and saying ‘See, it works! Believing in yourself really works. I got a medal today.’” Mancuso won giant slalom gold in Turin in 2006 and downhill and combined silver in Vancouver four years ago. But this season has been hard going and she needed a Christmas break at home to pull it all together. Slalom is most definitely not her forte, in fact she has not raced one this season, but against rivals who list that as (Continued on page 29)

Page 33

Sochi 2014: Michel Mulder wins 500m speed skating gold Michel Mulder

BBC Sport - Michel Mulder won gold as the Netherlands’ domination of the speed skating events at Sochi 2014 continued with a clean sweep in the men’s 500m. Mulder, 27, finished only 0.01 seconds ahead of Jan Smeekens with a combined time of 69.32secs. A fine second run from Ronald Mulder earned him bronze, making them only the second set of twins to win medals in the same event at

the Winter Olympics. The Dutch had already won gold in the men’s 5 , 0 0 0 m a n d w o m e n ’s 3,000m races. There was confusion at the death, as Smeekens initially thought he had earned a tie for the gold after he crossed the line. But the clock then adjusted the official times, which is a common occurrence in speed skating, giving Mulder the slimmest of victories. “I did not really realise what time I needed,’’ he said.

“In the past, I have lost races by one-hundredths a few times. It was so unbelievable - now, [I am] Olympic champion.’’ Behind the Dutch trio, Vancouver 2010 gold winner Tae Bum Mo finished fourth, with the other medallists from the 2010 Winter Games taking the next two spots bronze winner Joji Kato of Japan was fifth, with countryman and reigning silver medallist Keiichiro Nagashima sixth.

Shuffler’s 75 birth anniversary volleyball extravaganza deemed a success th

Action in the clash between Young Achievers and the Guyana Defence Force on Sunday, at the National Gymnasium. The Guyana Volleyball F e d e r a t i o n – o rg a n i s e d Extravaganza, which was held to commemorate the 75 birth anniversary of outgoing President Lenox Shuffler, was deemed a success according to feedback received from representatives of clubs that th

participated in the occasion. Shuffler, who has been at the helm of the organisation for over a decade, told Kaieteur Sport on Sunday evening shortly after the conclusion of the day’s activities that he has handed over the baton to Colonel John Flores (Maritime) of

the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on February 5 and the move found favour with the current GVF executive as well as the Georgetown Volleyball and Berbice Volleyball Associations. The long serving President said he had endorsed Flores due to his

vast knowledge of the sport both as a player and administrator, adding that he is someone that is well liked by most within the fraternity. According to Shuffler, Flores will get a full taste of being Guyana’s representative at the upcoming CSV Congress

which is scheduled to be staged in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil commencing from February 19, but before that Flores will have to vie for the Presidency of the Federation at its Annual General Meeting slated for February 15, at Camp Ayanganna. Meanwhile, over ten

teams participated in Sunday’s competition with the feature clashes occurring between the GDF, Young Achievers and Port Mourant Training Centre. Most of the teams had at least two representatives, while Park Rangers also fielded a unit.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Gender-based Violence message to be central theme during Milo football

Deputy Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Health Trevor Thomas (4th right) seen delivering remarks at the Petra Organisation / Milo Schools Football Tournament Launch recently. By Rawle Welch In what was described as a potent presentation, Deputy Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Health Trevor Thomas speaking recently at the launching of the 2nd Milo Schools Football Tournament on Gender-based Violence, applauded the Organisers and sponsor for allowing the topic to be a central theme druing the staging of the competition. Thomas, who made a lenghty presentation on the very subject assured all present of the Ministry’s eagerness to work together with organisations, in this case the Petra Organisation and Milo, which could help spread the message that focuses on eliminating or decreasing the use of violence against each

other within our society. The Ministry of Health official first recognised the efforts of the two entities and congratulated them for displaying a consciousness to complement the work of the Ministry on a subject that has become a topical issue and one that if not checked could destroy the social fabric of the society due to the long term physical, psychological and emotional damage it causes when it is carried out on someone. “I would like to congratulate the Organisers for partnering with the Ministry of Health in helping to reach an audience that is very important to spread the message and while it only caters at this time for schools in the Georgetown environ, it is quite a timely one with the audience being the participants

and the spectators,” Thomas said. He added that it is one (audience) that is perceived to be macho and while it is clearly not the only target group, it is vitally important that the message is circulated among them. “Football is a sport that could provide a good opportunity to spread the message and while G e n d e r - b a s e d Vi o l e n c e i s sometimes glamourised and promoted through music as well, the sport because it is played by boys and men somehow has this tough guys label attached to it where many feel that things ought to be settled physically.” Thomas said that while the tournament only caters for schools within the Georgetown environ at present it is the Ministry’s hope that

it reaches way beyond the boundary of the Capital since the message should not be restricted to one area, but is given a chance to be heard by as many persons as possible. He urged that the Organisers explore the possibility of expanding the tournament to cater for schools outside of Georgetown so that the message is heard by a larger audience. “While many of us may possess the physical attributes to be labeled ‘macho’ it does not mean that we should settle differences physically, but rather we must search for other ways to eliminate the use of force.” Meanwhile, the four schools to have survived at the end of the playoffs held on Saturday are: St. Joseph’s High, St. Mary’s, Freeburg and Kingston.

They now join Bishop’s High, Carmel, Central High, Charlestown, Chase Academy, Christ Church, Cummings Lodge, David Rose, Dolphin, Lodge, New Campbellville, North Georgetown, North Ruimveldt, Queen’s College, Richard Ishmael, South Ruimveldt, St. George’s, St. Winefride, Tucville and Tutorial. The winning team will receive $500,000, runner-up- $300,000, 3rd place- $200,000 and 4th place$100,000, while there will be prizes for outstanding individual performances. All the winning teams will have to choose a project of their choice to benefit the school since no monetary prize will be awarded. The tournament starts from February 15 and runs until April 5.

Travel Span and Mohamed’s Enterprise add touch of class to RHTY&SC Awards Pres. By Franklin Wilson The encouragement to be very competitive in every facet of the game continues to be adequately recognised by the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sport Club (RHTY&SC) which has planned, along with the support of Travel Span and Mohamed’s Enterprise to ensure that the hard work of their members during the year would not go unnoticed. To this end, RHTY&SC in association with Travel Span has decided that the Regional Cricketer of the Year at the Club will be rewarded with a return ticket to the USA. The ticket, valued at $150,000 will be presented to the best RHTY&SC player who represents Guyana and the West Indies. In contention

Regional Cricketer and Cricketer of the year to receive substantial awards

would be Assad Fudadin and Shemaine Campbell. The club is hoping that similar prizes would be awarded to local Cricketer of the Year and the Female Player of the Year. Hilbert Foster, Club Secretary/CEO expressed delight in having Travel Span back on board with the club, noting that it is their wish that the partnership would grow stronger with time. In association with Mr. Nazar Mohamed and Mohamed’s Enterprise, the

Cricketer of the Year would receive a cash prize of $200,000 as a part of a package that is worth $500,000. Foster indicated that Mr. Mohamed, over the years has been very kind to the club and would have on many occasions stated that he is very impressed with the unbelievable work they are doing to touch and change lives. Among the players who will be in contention for the Cricketer of the Year award are Jason Sinclair, Royston Crandon and Shemaine

Campbell. Performance on the field of play would not be the only criteria for winning this award. Personal discipline, commitment to the club, involvement in club activities and the role model status of the individual are all going to be taken into consideration. Some Three Million dollars will be distributed in prizes at the awards ceremony, the 24th edition which will be held on April 27. A total of 42 awards

would be handed out but special emphasis would be placed on the runner-up, junior, disciplined, most promising, most committed and female players of the year. Some of the other prizes that would be handed out are: one year’s free supply of cable television, visits to local resorts, cell phones, jewelry, electronic equipment, educational materials, cycles and one major surprise gift that would be announced at t h e c e r e m o n y. T h e representatives of Travel

S p a n a n d M o h a m e d ’s Enterprise expressed pleasure in being partners with the RHTY&SC in recognising and rewarding the sacrifices of the players during the year. They b o th pled ged continued support for the work of the club. Foster conveyed gratitude to both Travel Span and Mohamed’s Enterprise for the confidence they continue to show in the club while promising that excellence would continue to be their watch word. Foster informed that recognition of their heroes is paramount. The contributions of the corporate community are also recognized by the club at Award Ceremonies.

Tuesday February 11, 2014

Kaieteur News

Page 35

Wartsila launches Guyana’s most lucrative Road Race

W

a r t s i l a Operations Guyana Inc., yesterday launched its 20th Anniversary 20Km Road Race that is set to become the most lucrative road race in Guyana, doling out $3.3M in individual cash and other prizes for the March 2 competition, which starts at 6am. The race will bring the curtains down on a week of activities, which will mark the company’s 20th year of supplying power to the national grid, during February 23-March 2. The contest is scheduled to commence at Paradise, East Coast and finish at Wartsila Headquarters, Kingston. “The genesis of this event is in the fact that we thought that we could make road race bigger. We wanted to do this to end our anniversary week with a bang,” Arron Fraser, the Contract Manager at

Wartsila, told the media at Olympic House.

“transnational” company, and

outstanding support. Apart

Aubrey Hutson said the race

as such the race should reflect from the competitive aspect up will for be “onegrabs of the best - $3.3M in individual cash and prizes

Wartsila’s Contract Manager, Arron Fraser (second, left) addresses the media in the presence of, from left, AAG President, Aubrey Hutson, Mayfield Taylor-Trim and the race PR, Edison Jefford yesterday at Olympic House.

He said that the race is intended to attract international participation, hence the magnitude of the prize monies that are up for grabs. Further, Fraser pointed out that Wartsila is a

international standards. The head of Wartsila in Guyana informed that the preparations for the race are excellent and the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) has been offering

of the race, Fraser said that there will be a ‘fun run’ for corporate Guyana and he encouraged other companies to take part in the anniversary race. President of the AAG,

events we will ever have in Guyana”. He said the prize monies are impressive and called on local and international athletes to register for what promises to be a scorching event.

“The season is ripe for this race and we expect all the leading athletes to register. We also look forward to everyone coming out to participate in this mega race,” Hutson said, adding that the event will be staged according to the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) rules. Hutson thanked Wartsila for their contribution to the development of the sport, stating that their overall budget to host the race is in excess of $4M. In addition, Wartsila has sponsored the new road-race timing clock that the AAG will have in their possession. The overall Male and Female prizes are: $300,000; $240,000; $200,000; $140,000; $100,000 and $50,000 for first to sixth places. There are other prizes for five other categories that include junior, youth and masters.

Philadelphia Primary wins E.B.E’bo Scotia Bank Kiddy cricket competition By Zaheer Mohamed Philadelphia Primary defeated Greenwich Park Primary school by 11 runs to win the final of the East Bank Essequibo district of the Scotia Bank nationwide Kiddy cricket tournament yesterday at the Vergenoegen ground. Philadelphia batted first and scored 131-5 in 10 overs. Amos Baird made 10 and Yohance Smart nine while extras contributed 28. Greenwich Park replied with 120, losing 10 wickets in the process off their allotted 10 overs. Aftab Majeed scored 14 while extras made a healthy contribution with 26. Vanica Shultz snared three wickets while Smartt took two. In the first semi final, Blake went down to Greenwich Park by 58 runs. Blake scored 104-9 in 10 overs. Kevin Ramlochan made 8 while extras assisted with 12. Aftab Majeed captured 4 wickets for Greenwich Park who responded with 162-4 in 10 overs. Zevaugh Vangronigen was their leading batter with 12

while Alpha Nedd supported with 9 and extras 36. Hariesh Dhaniram and Ramlochan had one wicket each. Philadelphia got the better of Parika Salem by 67 runs. Parika Salem batted first and suffered 14 dismissals in scoring 107 in 10 overs. Alex Ali and Simon Persaud made 12 apiece while extras contributed 28. Kwesi Gill grabbed four wickets while there were two each for Vanica Shultz and Shemar Hutson. Philadelphia posted 174-6 in 10 overs in reply. Smartt led with 16, Baird made 12 and extras supported with 36. Ali took two wickets. Meanwhile, Kuru Kuru overcame Kuru Kururu in the Upper Demerara final at Dora ground yesterday. Kuru Kururu scored 134-7 in 10 overs, batting first. Ishmile Sampson made 14 and extras contributed 22. Kuru Kuru responded with 142-7 in 10 overs. Stacy Flores and Shemar Alfred made nine each and extras assisted with 18. Celina Salvador snared two wickets. Diamond and Craig Primary schools recorded victories

Members of the Philadelphia Primary school team display their trophy after their victory.

when action in the East Bank Demerara district continued yesterday at Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park. Diamond defeated Grove by 35 runs. Diamond scored 157 after taking first turn at the crease with Jamaal

Thomas scoring 21. Grove replied with 122. Xavier Singh scored 10. Craig overcame Covent Garden by 39 runs. Craig rattled up 174 batting first and Covent Garden were restricted for 135 in reply.

Rose Hall Town Jammers, NA Warriors score wins in Anamayah Memorial B/ball

t r o Sp 4 nation Caribbean boxing championships...

Final countdown as local pugilists gear up for fistic duties

Ashley Nurse bowls during his six-wicket haul. (Ash Allen photo)

Bajans beat Leewards by 4 wickets Some of the Guyanese boxers going through their paces on Sunday at the Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis Gym.

- face Guyana Malta Supreme in 2nd Semi-final

BULKAN WINS PLAYERS CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT - as Underdogs secure team title

George Bulkan (with trophy) and members of the successful Underdogs team pose with Banks DIH Sales and Marketing Executive Carlton Joao(right) and Citizens Bank Senior Credit and Marketing Manager Lindel Harlequin (left). 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