Wednesday February 15, 2017
PAGE 5
Kaieteur News
MY SECOND OPEN LETTER They say President Granger TO PRESIDENT GRANGER doesn’t micromanage DEAR EDITOR, Thank you for publishing my first open letter to President Granger. This is my second. My missive follows: Dear President Granger, by now, any reasonable thinking person would expect that your administration would have rolled out some sort of program, designed to provide massive employment for our youths, perhaps a few leadership programs and some sort of empowerment system for our women. To date, all we got from your administration is lip service, arrogance from a few of your ministers, and ineptitude from others. As a citizen of this potentially great nation, and the leader of a new political party, I find it necessary to confront you on these and other issues. Rather than spending millions of wasted dollars on projects that are not necessary and placing billions of dollars in the hands of some REOs who give out questionable contracts to their friends and party comrades who really cannot justify their work, or establishing a Consulate in Trinidad
which we do not need at this time, why not invest in our youths, women and children? Mr. President, have you ordered an audit recently into the spending of some REOs? Have you or any of your ministers, bothered to take notice of how almost all of the REOs in different regions, went from rags to riches almost overnight? Mr. President the REO Management system under your administration is worst that it was under the former PPP administration. A good case in point to note is the former REO of Region 9 who was just charged with a criminal offence and subsequently placed on $200,000 bail. I am not commenting on the case; one is innocent until proven guilty. I am just stating a fact and it is a fact he is charged Mr. President, the regional system is broken, just like your promises to our youths. This is just my observation on a few matters. It is called corruption right under your nose. Michael Ryan, Ms. – JD General Secretary Justice Reform and Democracy
The management team at GuySuCo in recent memory and earns G$14.1M per month ever must be an embarrassment to DEAR EDITOR, GuySuCo dropped another bombshell on the nation. It announced that 1st crop for 2017 at Skeldon Estate will be suspended. The reason given by GuySuCo’s management is that Skeldon Energy Inc. (SEI) “informed” GuySuCo that the cogeneration plant is unsafe to operate. This reasoning sounds good. At face value, anyone would agree that it is a solid decision. In reality, GuySuCo has embarked upon a grand scheme to deceive this nation and justify its “closedown & sell-out” vision. Editor, I will present some details to substantiate my claim and at the same time allow my fellow Guyanese to formulate their own conclusions being more informed. Firstly, SEI is not a foreign company. Like GuySuCo, it is owned by Government of Guyana, so SEI & GuySuCo have the same owner. Secondly, Skeldon ended operations in December 2016 and programmed its start-up for March 18th, 2017 giving the boilers and sugar factory 12-13 weeks of maintenance time. Instead of capitalizing on this time, SEI continued to operate the “unsafe” boilers in a poor manner with less than competent staff after
sugar operations ended. Why continue to operate the “unsafe” boilers? Why repairs were not planned to maximize on the available 3 months or is such a period too short? We also recall that GuySuCo ceased operations in the first week of December 2016 and incurred production losses to facilitate boiler inspection by “international experts”. This confirms that GuySuCo & SEI knew about the magnitude of work since December 2016. GuySuCo’s CEO, Chairman & Management gloated about those findings in the press. Thirdly, GuySuCo must have discussed its production schedule with SEI before February 2017 which would reason that SEI knew about GuySuCo’s intentions to start operations on March 18th, 2017. Why a sudden advisory from SEI about boilers being unsafe? Is it that these two companies are not communicating with each other or the two CEOs have been warming seats for the past weeks? Fourthly, Skeldon is projected to produce a meagre 8,871t sugar in 1st crop 2017. With crop suspension, production will now be zero; therefore, the industry’s target is now at 65,301t. This is the lowest
Govt. GuySuCo will cleverly argue that canes will be carried over to 2nd crop 2017 and sugar will still be made. While, it is true that canes can be carried over, it is also true that, as much 60% of sugar will be lost and this is being very conservative. A 60% sugar loss equates to 5,323t sugar or G$381,896,550 (using US$350/t sugar and US$-G$ at 205). Who will be held responsible for this loss of revenue to Guyana’s already sluggish economy? Do we afford this loss at this time? If Government will not hold anyone accountable from SEI or GuySuCo for such spectacular failure in basic planning costing the nation hundreds of millions, it confirms that SEI or GuySuCo or both companies have a deliberate plan to drive Skeldon further into indebtedness to strengthen further a case for “sell-out” and at the same time reduce the Estate’s value to enable prospective buyers to pay few dollars for assets. My fellow taxpayers, this is our returns for paying the millstone management team at GuySuCo G$14.1M/month. Sookram Persaud
DEAR EDITOR, We the reading public are being told a lot of why there have been non-interference in the affairs of the municipality, especially in Georgetown and more precisely when it comes to the parking meter issues. Among the phrases used is His Excellency our President doesn’t want to micromanage and the City Hall is an autonomous body and that they should be allowed to function unimpeded. First of all it might be good for the analysts to examine the word ‘micro-manage’ so as to determine what really is micromanaging, I am definitely not an expert of the definition of the word but from my layman’s point of view no one in this dear land of ours could honestly accuse His Excellency of ever micro-managing; matter of fact if one should ask me he takes too long
before he gets involved in matters that eventually affects the masses in a negative way and by then it might be too late to salvage the ship so to speak. He gives his team members time to sort things out, but more often than not he has to come and clean up the mess. Micromanaging to my mind and from the Merriam Webster Dictionary is to “manage especially with excessive control or attention to details; to direct or conduct the activities of a group or an enterprise by micromanaging them.” Our President does not fit in here in the least instead he has allowed things to run its course by insisting that autonomous bodies must be allowed to do their work without interference. Since His Excellency is not any of the above, then what would stop him from treating with a sense of urgency matters of bread and
butter not just for the affluent but also for the bottom of the line citizen who might find themselves ignored, neglected or even rejected by autonomous bodies such as the municipality. And of course we do have the case in question of parking meters. The city administrators went ahead hastily and unilaterally signed a contract without any survey, consultations or trying to ventilate what would be the reaction of the citizens and the business community in this now very volatile matter. Why take so long before intervening in such a crucial matter that is affecting lives of his subjects. I know patience is virtue and the His Excellency is saturated with patience but being overly patient can be a form of procrastination during which things can deteriorate to a point of no return. Ivan John
I am asserting there is no such company in Bartica DEAR EDITOR, Mr. Sherwin Downer has again surfaced in the newspapers, this time claiming to be the spokesman for the ‘Bartica Chamber of Commerce and Industry or BCCI,’ pronouncing on mining matters as if he is some expert in this industry or is even a miner. The ‘BCCI’ spokesman has written several articles criticizing the Government, the Finance Minister, the GRA and the 2017 Budget. I would therefore like to ask; what are Mr. Downer’s credentials? Is he an esteemed economist, an accountant perhaps? Is he an expert in mining matters, Does Mr. Downer know the “bush?” Does he have a dredge? How many years has he toiled in the mining industry? From whence has he accumulated this expertise to be able to pronounce
publicly on these matters with such high esteem so as to have his pronouncements published in the daily newspapers? Secondly, no one in Bartica is familiar with the BCCI. What is the ‘BCCI’ and when was it formed? Which companies comprise its membership? How many members does it have? Who are the ‘BCCI’ executives and so forth and so on? The ‘BCCI’ has an official sounding name but I suspect it is no different from those fake sites that pop-up on the internet professing to be legitimate businesses whose true purpose is to deceive consumers or release fake news. This is the same Sherwin Downer, a known PPP activist, who was rewarded with the position of press officer for the Bartica IMC. He claimed in 2016 to be the President of the ‘National
Mine Workers Union of Guyana (NMWUG).’ This turned out to be an untruth for which he found himself in trouble. I would suggest to my fellow Guyanese to be vigilant and not be deceived; Google ‘BCCI’ and call the numbers. Do your own research. BCCI is not a legitimate entity neither is its spokesman Mr. Sherwin Downer. Olg Fredricks Bartica Resident
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Wednesday February 15, 2017
Kaieteur News
Capital flight in progress; We need to report this lawyer for unbecoming conduct recession could come DEAR EDITOR, Since the Granger administration came to office, their economic policies have led to the systematic weakening of the system of respect for private property. The foreign exchange control regime just imposed on the licensed non-bank cambios is just the latest example of this disrespect. This will result in two things; a greater portion of the foreign currency trade going underground and the return of the parallel foreign exchange rate. The next move expected from Team Jordan is price controls as foreign investments and the net foreign reserves in the Treasury further dry up.
opening to 2017. The buck for this economic tragedy stops somewhere, if not at the Minister’s desk, then, the political responsibility rests with President Granger. We analyst watch for trends and it is very clear to me after engaging in discussion with some private sector personalities that investors are concerned that the authorities have run out of options. I now have to ask myself daily whether things are worse than I thought, and if this loss of confidence could tip into a recession after two Christmas seasons of unsatisfactory trading activities. The eye of this foreign currency market storm
attitude by the Minister of Agriculture towards the actual wealth creators in these two sectors. To understand the gravity of the situation, one only has to be reminded of the subject matter around the nonpayment of the legally due API to the sugar workers and the comments of senior functionaries in the Granger administration that gave power to this reprehensible statement “payment to rice farmers was a private issue”. These are just two of the anti-progressive policy actions emanating from the powerful people in the Granger administration since 2015 and the end product only had one outcome. Both rice
DEAR EDITOR, I am writing to bring attention of the fraudulent practices of a certain lawyer practicing in Guyana. My parents and I have also been victim to what we believe was a deliberate attempt to sabotage a court issue when this attorney was our legal representative and failed to reveal that he/she had a close and long-standing relationship with various family members of the defendants in our case. My parents and I fired this attorney as our lawyer in May/June of 2016 and received a full refund of all the money we paid him/her for services regarding this case. However, this lawyer’s actions have put us in a situation where there is nothing else we can do to further our case in the courts. We feel that it was always the intention to sabotage our case.
At that time, we believed that there was no legal recourse to address our grievance with the attorney and we were worried that due to the i n f l u e n c e a n d position of lawyers in Guyana (family members of the defendants in our case were also influential in Guyana) any further legal action on our part would lead to additional problems for us. We were also worried that no one would believe our story due to this lawyer’s position as one of the big wigs in a certain organization. After there was talk in the air about this lawyer and realizing that we are not the only people who have been taken advantage of by the attorney, we are now preparing to file a complaint with the Guyana Bar Association. Further, we feel that it is important for us to also go public with our ordeal. I have a tape recording and
other documentation to validate our accusations against this lawyer and we would like to share our story and evidence with this newspaper. Please let me know if you are interested in interviewing me (my parents reside overseas but I am their legal power of attorney) for more details concerning our complaints. I have not contacted any other newspapers, so I would really appreciate your prompt response to know if I should contact other newspapers. I fear if I sign my name, the lawyer can sue your newspaper since the lawyer can say that he/she is the attorney that I am pointing to because he/she was in fact our lawyer. So I cannot put my real name to this published letter. But it is enclosed with my telephone (cell) number Aggrieved client
Complaint against Good Hope/ Pomona NDC
The table above illustrates two things; one a clear case of currency devaluation and two a thread that illustrates all the conditions to deplete the net foreign reserves available to the banking system. Over a 25 months period to December 2016, the selling rate of the US dollar at the non-bank cambios was between G$208 - G$210 to US$1. However, the poor sales performance in the trading sector at Christmas 2016, the creeping loss of confidence in the management of the economy and the rejection of the policies of the Granger administration by the rice and sugar belt collectively have caused the exchange rate to tank within 30 days to G$215 to US$1 at the end of January 2017. Hard-won confidence in the currency market built up since 1990 under Hoyte and continued under all of the post-1992 PPP governments, is today being undermined by a variety of reckless public policies, causing a poor
remains the stock of the foreign reserves available to the banking system. As the graph above illustrates, from a period of relative stability between December 2014 and June 2015, with a net foreign reserves generally around US$940M, it took a US$85M dive for the worst between May-December 2015. However, because of the praise worthy amounts of foreign inflows from the rice and sugar sectors in 2015 as a result of the creditable production of 687,784 tonnes and 231,145 tonnes respectively, the net stock of foreign reserves recovered by June 2016 as a result of the lag between production and actual inflows. However, by then, the management of the rice and sugar industry had tipped for the worst with an approach by the incompetents running these industries totally devoid of innovation. To compound this high tech level of incompetence at the highest levels of GRDB and Guysuco, one also had to observe a very hostile
and sugar production plummeted in 2016 to 599,990 tonnes and 183,615 tonnes respectively driving a US$60M loss on the foreign reserves since June 2016. This shortage of foreign currency compounded by an increase in demand to fund the capital flight in progress is nothing but an economic Molotov cocktail. The economist will tell you that in such a situation the exchange rate will increase and the hardship on the local consumers will multiply as the cost of essential imported products on the shelf increases by more than the expansion in basic wages. In the final analysis, all of Guyana’s current economic problems are management related. The people have every right to react to the policy paralysis emanating from the Office of the Minister of Finance and the Granger administration on this issue as many other issues that directly affect their pockets. These intellectually bankrupt strategies of tax and spend rather than empower and incentivize to grow the economy continues to bring great harm to the economy and the buck stops at the President’s desk. Sase Singh
DEAR EDITOR, A shaky coconut tree trunk with the top portion already blown off in my neighbour’s yard remains ever so much risky to fall and damage my property at Aurora Village in Region 2. But what is even more worrying is that the owner has refused to cut it down and the Government agencies in the district are refusing to take the appropriate action in keeping with their responsibility to provide a service to the community. The imminent collapse will inevitably put me in unnecessary expenses to effect repairs when with the proper step could be taken. This could well have been avoided as a stitch in time saves nine. It is beyond my
understanding for the negative response being shown by the Public Health Department and the Good Hope/Pomona Neighbourhood Democratic Council in failing to do their job in a proper manner not as a favour but in the line of their duty. Both of these bodies are under obligation to deal with my predicament but their functions turned out to be non-existent and impotent so what are they paid to do? For several months approaches were made to deal with my complaint with only promises being made with no action which is unreasonable and unacceptable. Can someone advise me as to what can be done now? Khusiyal Persaud
Hardship when cases transferred from Suddie Court to Charity Court DEAR EDITOR, I would like you to publish this letter without the use of my name because I am the litigant .You can safely put my signature as “litigant.” U n n e c e s s a r y inconvenience, hardship and suffering are being endured by litigants in the Region 2 district when their cases that would be normally dealt with at the sitting of the Suddie Court are transferred way down to the Charity Court. What could be the reason for the present presiding magistrate Dylon Bess doing so, is beyond the understanding of affected litigants who see the move as a step in the wrong direction with the financial strain in travelling alone becoming too burdensome and beyond their reach. Several litigants including myself against whom the transfer was made want the
relevant authorities to intervene so that it becomes compulsory for the sake of convenience for all cases that fall within the confines of the Suddie Court area to remain there at all times. The return passenger fare by a single person is one thousand dollars with some spending having to be done on getting a meal or so and it becomes much more expensive in the case of an elderly person having to be assisted and when witnesses have to travel up to Charity as well. When travelling from Supenaam end to Charity it will cost much more. Before now it was the practice for the Suddie Court to deal with cases between Supenaam and Queenstown for Anna Regina Court between Queenstown and Dartmouth and for Charity
between Dartmouth and the Pomeroon River. An offender on the first appearance could be taken to any court at the earliest possible time but for trial it must be confined to the prescribed court as a matter of convenience for the litigants. Some litigants from the Onderneeming Sand Pit being so near to the Suddie Court find it difficult at times to pay a hundred dollars fare more so to “fork out” thousands to reach Charity which could be avoided. The Suddie Court is not short of anything to make it unworthy for working conditions in any way whatsoever and is available for use on any court day. The regular magistrate for the district is Mr. Sunil Scarce who always made it easy as possible for litigants. Concerned litigant
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Kaieteur News
Arrest Warrant, Recovery of Asset Treaties at advanced stage of deliberations
42 kilos coke bust...
- Caricom SG The Caribbean Community (Caricom) is looking at a number of legal instruments formulated to enhance cooperation between member states in the fight against crime. Secretary-General (SG) of the Community, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, during a Press Conference at the Caricom Secretariat at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown yesterday, disclosed that some of these instruments are in advance stages whilst others are not. Ambassador LaRocque continued that Heads of Government would have discussed these instruments at length resulting in two particular instruments being awarded priority attention and action. These instruments are the Arrest Warrant Treaty and the Recovery of Assets Treaty. The SG was at the time, briefing local and regional media operatives on some of the matters that are expected to be addressed at the 28th Intercessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom slated to be held in Guyana on February 16 and 17. During a recent PostCabinet Press Briefing in Georgetown, Minister Joseph Harmon had stated – with regard to the Arrest Warrant Treaty – that the adoption of this legislation will simplify the procedures by which fugitives from justice are returned to participating member states to face criminal prosecution or serve judicial sentences. The Treaty is one of the regional security instruments
Caricom SecretaryGeneral, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque that was formulated to enhance cooperation between member states in the fight against crime and to reduce the complexity, cost and delays in the existing extradition arrangements inherent in the Region. The Recovery of Assets Treaty is a legal instrument that will allow Member states to retrieve assets stashed aboard which were obtained by ill-gotten means. This instrument was birthed from the Crime and Security Strategy that was adopted at Caricom’s 24th Intercessional Meeting held in Haiti in October 2013. During this meeting, it was pointed out that the utilisation of asset recovery as a tool, will aid tremendously in the fight against organised crime. Quizzed on how advanced this instrument was at the level of Caricom, the Secretary-General responded: “Negotiations for that are very well advanced. It has received the attention of the Council for Crime and Security and latterly, by the Legal Affairs Committee
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood
which is comprised of (the Region’s) Attorneys General. At this time, we are not at the position to say that we are going to adopt this instrument at this sitting but we are very well advanced in getting this done. Our hope was to already get this done but I have to admit that these legal instruments require careful examinations and that’s where we are. But it is very well advanced.” The Arrest Warrant Treaty is also being negotiated and is currently in an advanced stage of deliberation, Ambassador LaRocque noted. Quizzed on whether these instruments will be signed during the confab this week, the SG said; “What normally happens is that once it gets the clearance of the Legal Affairs Committee, then recommendation is made to the conference of Heads of Government that it is ready for adoption and that’s where the signature takes place. We are not quite there as yet.”
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Two Guyanese plead guilty in Bajan court to cocaine trafficking Barbados (Barbados Today) -Four men, two of them Guyanese nationals, appeared in the No. 5 Supreme Court yesterday to answer drug charges dating back to 2011. Ryan Oneal Nowell, of Maxwell Avenue, Black Rock, St. Michael; Michael Clarence Forde of Road View, St. Peter; and Guyanese Surain Persaud and Andrew Edwin McLennon are jointly charged with possession and trafficking of 42.2 kilogrammes of cocaine on March 31, 2011. Forde is also separately charged with knowingly permitting the handling of cocaine to take place on premises of which he was in charge, at #304 Pomegranate Road, Sunset Crest, St. James. Forde and Nowell told the court presided over by Madam Justice Jacqueline Cornelius, they were not guilty of the charges against
them, while McLennon and Persaud admitted to their offences. A fifth man, Davanand Outar, from Guyana, who is also facing the drug possession and trafficking charges, was not present in the dock with the other accused who are represented by Andrew Pilgrim, Q.C. When the Prosecutor, Principal Crown Counsel Elwood Watts, enquired of his whereabouts, Station Sergeant Clyde Gibson who had warned the accused for court said he could not find a Barbados address for Outar. Sergeant Gibson also said he had received information that Outar, who was granted B’dos$175,000 (US$87,500) bail back in December 2011, was not in the island. Justice Cornelius then ordered that a summons be sent for Outar’s surety to attend court. Meantime, Watts outlined the facts of the
case involving Persaud and McLennon who were found at the Sunset Crest address when police executed a search warrant there. The court heard that when police went to the residence, they could hear the persistent sound of hammering coming from the house, but no one responded to their calls or knocks. They entered the residence and saw two men in a bedroom. When the officers searched the room, they found cocaine in wooden pallets. In a statement to police, McLennon revealed that a taxi man picked him up after he arrived in the country by air on March 20, 2011. He said he was taken to the house in Sunset Crest where he was met by a man whom he had known for over a year and another whom he had seen in Guyana. McLennon said he was (Continued on page 23)
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Parking meter fiasco...
No lawyers were present during contract signing - Mayor
Ambassador Jianchun sharing his views with officials of City Hall.
While it is not imperative to always have lawyers present during the actual signing of contracts, most legal minds would advise that this be done in any scenario that puts a country’s resources at stake. In the case of that infamous parking meter contract, it was clearly done with little legal supervision. This was even admitted to by Mayor, Patricia Chase-Green. “I never said that there were lawyers present at the signing of the contract,” she said. Because of this lapse on the part of the Mayor and Town Clerk, residents of Georgetown are more at risk of losing even with, or without the burden of parking meters. The contracted company on the other hand, Smart City Solutions (SCS) stands to gain much either way. Speaking with Kaieteur News yesterday, Attorney-at-Law, Shaunella Glen maintained that while not necessary, it would have been prudent for the Mayor and Town Clerk to have their lawyers present at the signing of that very controversial parking meter contract. “In cases like this, it is important, because it seeks to protect the interest of the government,” an interest that eventually trickles down to the most important stakeholders- the taxpayers. The lawyer declared, firmly, that the officials of City Hall, in this case Mayor Chase-Green and Town Clerk, Royston King, erred by not ensuring the presence of sound legal minds during the initiation of the questionable parking meter project. “They should’ve had their lawyers there
even during the negotiations. This would’ve saved time, instead of now having to engage the courts,” Glen argued. Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Cui Jianchun, yesterday met with Mayor Chase-Green and Town Clerk, King. Improved partnership and the assistance that can be extended to Guyana in the area of science and the environment were discussed. At this point, King sought to highlight to the Ambassador the benefits that the solar powered parking meter will have on the environment. Mr. Cui began to explain the traffic woes of his birth place, particularly in the city of Beijing. He was quick to point out, though, that in his country of more than 1.3 billion people, there are restrictions on the importation of vehicles, as well as the skyrocketing price of parking. The parking arrangements of China, a country that even has restrictions on human reproduction, can hardly be compared to what exists here in the land of many waters, occupied by a mere 774,407 persons. After the meeting with Chase-Green and the Town Clerk, the Ambassador mentioned the need for measures to be put in place to ease the garbage and traffic congestion in the city. He was subsequently questioned on the likelihood of any Mayor of his country, opting to sign off on contracts that can potentially hold a city, and by extension the country, at ransom. Sticking to his diplomatic title, Cui said that it was not his place to interfere in the Guyana’s internal matters.
Wednesday February 15, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Forensic audit flags $184M debt to GPL …negligence by management allows Bill Direct to walk away scot-free is one of several to be handed over to the police for investigations and possible charges against executives of state agencies under the previous government. There is a new Board and almost new management in place at GPL. It was explained that on February 4, 2008, GPL and Bill Direct entered an
From left: Former DCEO, Aeshwar Deonarine; former CEO, Bharat Dindyal and former Chairman, Winston Brassington. An experimentation of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) with a collection agency has left the state agency $180M poorer. The company, Bill Direct, is no longer operating and despite a court judgment, GPL has not been able to recoup the monies. The transaction is one of
several raised in a forensic audit report conducted by Nigel Hinds Financial Services. It would continue to raise troubling questions about the management of GPL, under the previous administration of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). A new Government is in place now since May 2015
DEM BOYS SEH...
with Nigel Hinds hired to review the period November 1, 2011 to May 31, 2015. The Bill Direct transaction was significant enough to engage several pages of the audit report. It was explained that Bill Direct was singled out for special treatment especially as some $184M will most likely never be recovered. The forensic audit report
Jagdeo is a real, real badman When Jagdeo was president he set such an example that now that a new government is in place people can’t believe that what dem tek fuh granted was crookishness. Is now dem boys see why Jagdeo vex and complaining because people got to pay fuh nuff of de things dem use to get fuh free. In he party stronghold in Berbice people live in Government quarters for free although dem had to pay rent. When one of de regional boss tell dem that dem got to pay dem seh that is only Jagdeo can tell dem. That is how de people start to collect rent from dem salary. One man suh bareface that he go to court to sue de government because it collecting rent money. That matter deh before a judge. Jagdeo suing too. Soulja Bai seh that anybody who owe de government got to pay before dem can lef de country.
Jagdeo claiming how Soulja Bai infringing on people right to travel. But dem boys seh de same Soulja Bai inherit de law wha Jagdeo put in place. Jagdeo law seh that if somebody owe tax dem can’t lef de country. And besides dem have another law which seh if you tek a government contract you can’t travel unless you pay off de contract. But Jagdeo suing. He is a badman. He carrying de government to court while wid all de forensic audit Soulja Bai can’t carry Jagdeo to
court. Dem boys seh is suh people does know badman. Dem boys does also know sick people by de number of tablets dem does drink and that is how dem know that de whole of de Elections Commission sick. Dem boys sit down at de tender board yesterday and hear how GECOM want $75 million in drugs fuh this year. At first, people think was cocaine GECOM was buying but Dr Steve seh that is not de case. He too is a badman. Talk half and wait to her bout more badman.
City Hall saddled with... (From page 3) permit the operation of paid public parking facilities nor the operation of any metered parking systems other than that of SCS except with the written permission of the company. It has been recommended by the Ministry that a feasibility study should be provided that gives the national government a clear picture of demand analysis, financial analysis, socio-economic cost benefit analysis, risk analysis, technological alternatives, production plan, human resources, location plan and implementation.
agreement for the latter to become an authorized collection agent of the power company. Bill Direct operated in this capacity until September 11, 2013, when a decision was taken to terminate its contract after it was concluded that GPL was owed $184M. WARNING SIGNS BUT… It was explained that Bill Direct began breaching the terms of its agreement with
GPL from as early as its first year as an authorized collection agent. With one year, as at January 31, 2009, it failed to remit $21.47M, which represented an average of 21 days of collections. By February 2010, the next year, this had risen to $56.4M. By October 31, 2010 unremitted collections by Bill Direct were in excess of Continued on page 28
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 15, 2017
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN...
No anniversaries for APNU and the Cummingsburg Accord July 2016 came and went and maybe not even one Guyanese outside of the APNU circles could recall it was the birth anniversary of the formation called APNU. You tend at first glance to say it was a fictional construct because of the six groups that made up the entity only one had active political space. At the time, the Working People’s Alliance barely existed. The other parties were virtually one-man things. The PNC was APNU, APNU was the PNC. You felt it was a caricature at the time it was formed because of the six organisms that made up the outfit only the PNC had biological sustainability. But that was not the true picture of APNU. It was the symbolism it
brought that was not only important but priceless, especially the partnership with the PNC and WPA. People felt that Guyanese could put their differences away and work for the common good. The birth of APNU with the PNC and the WPA coming together brought psychological comfort to African Guyanese who were anguished at the divisions between PNC supporters of Forbes Burnham and African Guyanese who accept Walter Rodney as a national hero. APNU contested the 2011 elections and the five seats the PNC lost under Robert Corbin in 2006 were recaptured. The story of APNU after May 2015 is a fascinating one.
Months after APNU came to power, Tacuma Ogunseye from the WPA published a newspaper letter in which he accused the APNU leadership council of not meeting. That leadership council has met once since May 2015. It is politically unacceptable anywhere in the world for a large, major political party like the PNC to sit around a table with six other parties and five of those six parties do not exist. It is appalling and repugnant for the PNC to call a leadership council meeting and, outside of about four people from the WPA that will turn up, the rest of the coalition simply does not exist. There are no functioning entities named Justice for All Party, National Front Alliance, Guyana Action Party and National Democratic Alliance. The brutal reality is that there will be no future leadership council meetings and the PNC as the only
living organism in the grouping should not call one. The Guyanese people should accept the realization that APNU is the PNC. And it is the PNC that will determine if it will use the name in the 2020 election or drop it. One suspects that because of the importance of symbolism, the PNC leadership will continue to use the name even after 2020. But here is when the word caricature will not be too harsh a word to use to describe “this thing” named APNU. So each year, July comes up and there is not mention of APNU’s birth. Last year there was no mention, no celebration, no discussion of the Cummingsburg Accord. It was born on February 14, 2015. February 14 passed by yesterday and there was no full page advertisement lauding the virtues and accomplishments of the Cummingsburg Accord. There was no little gettogether to celebrate it at
either Congress Place or the AFC head office. Of course there can be no analogy between the death of APNU and the status of the Cummingsburg Accord. There are two different situations but an infinitesimal similarity does exist with the APNU physiology. Many in the PNC leadership, and I have heard this said to me and spoken in my presence by top PNC activists, take the position that the 2015 election results proved that the AFC is not a strong electoral party. They point to polling day statistics. In Guyana, after elections, you can find out how many votes you got in each town, village and enclave; GECOM publishes those numbers. This cynical view of the AFC was heightened by the Local Government results where the PPP captured a substantial number of NDCs all over Guyana. My opinion is that if the
Frederick Kissoon AFC did not team up with APNU in 2015, it would have won much more than its seven seats in 2011 and some would have come from both the PPP and APNU. I believe in a three wayrace in 2015, the PPP would have returned as a minority government. People in 2015 did not vote for the AFC or APNU; they came out in numbers to vote for a phenomenon called the Coalition. In this sense I would argue that the AFC decision to partner with APNU resulted in the coming to power of the PNC in government. It meant the AFC’s role was larger than the actual votes reflected.
Wednesday February 15, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Dismissal for health workers found abusing Int’l donations – Minister Lawrence Heads will roll among Public Health Ministry staffers guilty of abusing international donations and whose departments underperform forcing chunks of its budget to return annually to the Finance Ministry. Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, sounded the dual warning on Monday during her feature address at the Maternal and Child Health/Expanded Programme on Immunisation (MCH/EPI) quarterly review meeting. The venue was Grand Coastal Hotel, Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara. The meeting ended yesterday. Minister Lawrence expressed outrage that international donations given to boost Guyana’s health sector programme were converted for personal use by Ministry officials. Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow, had earlier complained about the misuse of transportation donated to help the Ministry’s immunisation programme in the hinterland. Turning her attention to budgetary initiatives of her Ministry, Lawrence told participants at the two-day MCH/EPI review meeting to maximise spending on budgetary initiatives. “Spend money on that for which it is allocated. If that doesn’t happen somebody will be going home,” Minister Lawrence warned. For that to happen the procurement system must be strengthened and the belated arrival of projects for funding from the 10 Regions has to end. “The Regions fetch the health programme; if you don’t tackle the Regions you don’t tackle health,” an experienced staffer explained. Lawrence wants officials to examine, critically, “The progress we have made, the
challenges we still face and…formulate a comprehensive Action Plan that will be used to overcome the challenges and produce the desirable outcomes.” “I want to reiterate that monitoring and appropriate management of our health systems are intrinsic to us making substantial progress. No notable achievement can be made without Standards, Measurable Goals and Best Practices of which all involved must be au fait. Our hinterland Regions must be an integral part of this process, so let us circumvent the constraints and map out an effective programme for the Maternal and Child Health Department and the Expanded Immunization Initiative,” Minister Lawrence stressed. Despite the challenges the Minister, Dr. Adu-Krow and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud pointed out at a ceremony to mark the start of the MCH/EPI meeting, that Guyana’s health sector has made several notable gains. “In the Health Situation Analysis of the CCS 20162020, it was noted that since 2010, Guyana has recorded high levels of immunization coverage for which we are extremely happy. It means, therefore, that we must always remain one step ahead, that our procurement process for supply of vaccines is efficient, and that we are prepared to effectively deal with any threat or outbreak,” said Minister Lawrence. She continued, “We must also ensure that these vaccines can easily reach our hinterland Regions, that the monitoring process is well established and that there is ongoing training of personnel for new vaccines and for Effective Vaccine Management.” To maintain the momentum, the Public Health Ministry must improve its facilities, have adequate
trained personnel in all Regions to lessen complaints about unprofessional behaviour and attitudes and improve the level of patient care, the Minister asserted. “We must implement Standards and Best Practices for our Clinics and Health Centers. Our mandate is to reduce the incidence of maternal and child mortality, so it is extremely important that our human resource is educated and trained, so that they in turn can inform and teach the mothers who attend clinic sessions,” Lawrence told the opening ceremony. In the short-term there will be heightened sensitisation and awareness programmes focusing on the behaviours that can be changed to reduce incidences of noncommunicable diseases. Lawrence also wants national discourse on tobacco and alcohol use and physical inactivity and the consequences of these on peoples’ health. “We must strive harder to lessen the number of obese children and encourage healthier eating habits and lifestyles,” Lawrence said. In her address too, she reiterated Guyana’s commitment to the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) particularly Goal Three which foresees healthy lives and promotion of the well-being for all at all ages. This, Lawrence said, referring to SDG number three, “Is our priority, so let us over the next two days establish the achievements we have made and devise innovative strategies that will impact on the vision we have for advancing primary health care for all our citizens.” Among the new target of the SDG three is a reduction of the Meales, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) to less 70 per 100,000 by 2030, Dr. AduKrow said. He added that also among its vision is ending preventable deaths of new-
A section of health officials at yesterday’s meeting.
borns and children under five years of age “with all countries aiming to reduce neonatal mortality to at least as low as 12 per 1,000 live births and under-five mortality to as low as 25 per 1,000 live births by 2030.” Between 20 and 22 per cent of 15 – 19-year olds in Guyana become pregnant, according to Ministry figures quoted by Dr. Adu-Krow. The PAHO/WHO Representative also assured Guyana of continued help in several areas this year. These include the completion of the PMTCT elimination report through
Minister of Public Health Ms. Volda Lawrence delivers remarks. data collection; review the family health manual; build capacity in neonatal, maternal and adolescent healthtraining programmes for health care workers; procurement of needed
obstetric equipment; share the findings of the recent perinatal and neonatal survey which was completed in 2016, and follow up on certification of health workers on the training in reproductive care.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Rosignol, New Amsterdam Stellings to be rehabilitated - construction of roads in Region Ten imminent During the opening of tenders at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), contractors vied for the contract to rehabilitate the Rosignol Stelling in Berbice. The procuring entity is the Transport and Harbours Department of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. The engineer’s estimate was announced at $5.5M.
Tenders were also open for the procurement of goods for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). This contract was divided into four Lots: Lot One, drugs and supplies; Lot Two, office supplies; Lot Three, field supplies; and Lot Four, janitorial supplies.
Bidders contended for the contract to rehabilitate the New Amsterdam Stelling, Berbice. The engineer’s estimate was announced at $ 6.2M.
Contractors also vied for GECOM contract, “Provision of security for 2017”. Bids were also submitted for the acquisition and installation of a propulsion system. The TH&D is also the procuring entity. Brenco Shipping &Trading Company Limited was the sole bidder. The announced bid price was $291.4M. Tenders were open for the supply, delivery and installation of security equipment for the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA). Massy Technology Guyana Limited was the sole bidder for this project with a bid price of $1.6M. Tenders were also open for the contract, “Procurement of slide scanner sonar”. The procuring entity was listed as the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD). Multimillion-dollar bids were submitted for the procurement of medical supplies for the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for 2018.
Tenders were open for the supply, delivery and testing of computers and accessories. The Ministry of Education is the procuring entity. Also, bids were submitted for the procurement of pharmaceuticals for 2018.
Finally, tenders were open for the construction of urban roads in Region 10 (Upper Demerara/ Upper Berbice). This contract was divided into Lots: Lot Five, the rehabilitation of the Teachers’ Hostel Road in Mackenzie; and Lot Six, the rehabilitation of One Mile to Canvas City to One Mile Road, Wismar. The engineer’s estimate for Lot Five is $22.3M and $27.1 M for Lot Six.
Wednesday February 15, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Essequibo businessman begins bottling coconut water Guyana is well known as the Land of Many Waters, but it would soon be known as the land of pure and genuine coconut water. Successful entrepreneur of the Essequibo Coast, Roopan Ramotar, has successfully established his new business venture ‘Rooster Pomeroon Fresh Coconut Water’ with the vision of manufacturing and bottling pure coconut water. This newly established business is located at Land of Plenty on the Essequibo Coast, just 11 minutes away from Anna Regina Mr. Ramotar told Kaieteur News last Thursday that coconut water is the first in the line of Rooster
products. He has plans to expand his business and venture into the processing of virgin coconut oil, coconut jelly and other coconutrelated products. Roopan Ramotar, popularly known as ‘Fowl Cock’, commenced the operation five years ago. He began processing coconut water last August and has been making great strides ever since. Ramotar stated, “Many manufacturers go into manufacturing without any reliable source of raw material.” As such he commenced his operation by first planting his own coconut farms which provides him with at least 60 per cent of the
Former murder accused remanded on attempt murder charge A gold miner who was previously charged for murder was yesterday remanded to prison on an attempt murder charge. Shawn Filiicene appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where he was not required to plead to the indictable charge. Particulars of the allegation stated that on February 11, at Iwang, Backdam, Potaro River, with intent to commit murder he wounded Manuel DeSantos. The 43-year-old accused was told to return to court on April 18, in the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court. Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones said that Filiicene was previously charged for murder. However the charge was withdrawn. Prosecutor Jones pointed out that the virtual complainant received multiple stab wounds to the neck and is still hospitalized in a critical condition. Meanwhile, in another case, a 33-year-old farmer was yesterday released on $300,000 bail after being slapped with a wounding charge. Lawrence Gomes of Paramakatoi, pleaded not guilty to the allegation which stated that on January 29, at Paramakatoi, North Pakaraima, he unlawfully and
REMANDED: Shawn Filiicene maliciously inflicted bodily harm on Rawlinson Robin. Attorney Everston Lammy-Singh in a bail petition told the court that his client is the sole breadwinner of his home. Prosecutor Jones did not oppose bail for Gomes but requested that it be granted in a substantial amount. Further, Prosecutor Jones disclosed that the parties are known to each other since they reside in the same village. Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan ordered the defendant not to go within 50 feet of the virtual complainant or witnesses in the matter. This case will be called again on March 7, in the Lethem Magistrate’s Court.
coconuts he needs. His farms are equipped to handle both drought and floods are said to provide him with some 500 acres of coconuts. As a result Roopan Ramotar now reaps 125,000 to 140,000 coconuts per month. He estimates that by 2020 he should be able to reap about 8 million coconuts per annum. Mr. Ramotar has a local market here in Guyana, however he said that he also has international markets in Trinidad and Tobago. He’s currently seeking markets in Barbados.
He was recently informed that the agriculture department in Barbados is now implementing a barrier between the Guyana Barbados coconut trades. As such he is pleading with Guyana’s agriculture ministry to review the trade agreement with Barbados. Ramotar also believes that the government should provide incentives to the coconut industry since it is a growing and surviving industry. For all the talk about t h e t r a d e b a r r i e r, t h e CARICOM Secretariat said that it was not aware of any barrier between Guyana
and Barbados, especially since there is the CARICOM Single Market. Coconut contains potassium which helps to stabilize blood pressure and can even prevent headaches and cramps. Roopan believes that coconut water is unlike any other beverage since it is very much beneficial for a healthy population, as such he thinks that government should remove the vat off of coconut water and make it more affordable for citizens. Ramotar also made it clear to this newspaper that he’s been around the world and
had an opportunity to try various varieties of coconut water, still Rooster Pomeroon Coconut Water is the best he’s ever tasted. “Pomeroon coconut water is the best because we add no chemical or preservatives,” he added, “It’s all about freezing and picking the coconuts at the right time.” Rooster’s coconut water is believed to have a shelf life of one year if kept in freezing, when the seal is broken however the water is expected to have a life of two to three weeks if stored below 4 degrees Celsius. (Romario Blair)
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Police still to arrest, charge others over fraud at GMC
‌as prosecutor seeks DPP’s advice on way forward
CHARGED: Nizam Hassan, former GM of GMC
Three months after Nizam Hassan, former General Manager (GM) at the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) was charged along with Felecia De SouzaMadramootoo for conspiracy to procure money to be paid
by false pretence, police are still to arrest and charge three others, The procurement charge is in relation to the approval of payments for low-graded rehabilitation works done on the GMC building at Robb
Street, Georgetown. Still to be arrested and charged are Hanniel Madramootoo, the husband of De Souza-Madramootoo, his brother Phillip Madramootoo and his friend Nizam Ramkissoon both Directors of Constantine Engineering and Construction Services Limited, Trinidad and Tobago. It is alleged that between October 28, 2010 and April 25, 2012 they conspired with each other to commit the offence by continuously approving payments which were made to the contractor of the engineering firm for works that were incompetently and incorrectly done with inferior materials to rehabilitate the GMC building at Robb and Alexander Streets, Bourda, Georgetown; knowing that such works should not have been approved. However, Hassan and De Souza-Madramootoo have been the only ones attending court with their Attorneys, Marcel Babb and Glen
Hanoman respectively. Yesterday, the matter was called before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones indicated that the three other accused have not yet been arrested. Prosecutor Jones was advised by the Chief Magistrate to seek advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in relation to withdrawing the charge against Hanniel Madramootoo, Phillip Madramootoo and Nizam Ramkissoon, and proceeding with a trial of the former GM and De Souza-Madramootoo. Prosecutor Jones is also expected to reply to submissions laid over by one of the Attorneys, when the case is called again on February 28. In the meantime, Hassan, 50, of Good Hope, East Coast Demerara and De SouzaMadramootoo, 34, of Lusignan, East Coast Demerara have each been released on $250,000 bail. The duo was also instructed to report to the Special Organized Crime Unit
CHARGED: Felecia De SouzaMadramootoo (SOCU) Headquarters, Camp Street, Georgetown and instructed to lodge their passports with the court. Charges were recommended against Hassan and the other persons after the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) completed its report into the investigations of the multimillion dollar construction of the GMC office building. A forensic audit report submitted last year April by auditor, Saykar Boodhoo, had flagged the construction, citing several worrying things at GMC, an agency of the Ministry of Agriculture. The forensic audit report was sent to Cabinet where it was decided that the findings of the report were serious enough to warrant a deeper Continued on page 28
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Kaieteur News
GPHC recruits optometrists to tackle diabetic retinopathy Cases of cataract, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma have been identified as some of the more frequent conditions seen at the Ophthalmology Department of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). In excess of 300 patients suffering from these conditions, and others, are seen on a daily basis at the GPHC. While the majority of cataract and glaucoma cases are elderly folks, the cases of diabetic retinopathy are individuals of varying age groups. This is according to Consultant Ophthalmologist at the GPHC, Dr. Shailendra Sugrim, who assumed the position of Head of Department in 2015 following Dr. George Norton’s call to a ministerial portfolio. Dr. Sugrim gained his specialist ophthalmology training in Bangladesh where he also embraced training in glaucoma as a sub-specialty. His specialist training allowed him to be the only local candidate at the GPHC at the time to fill the void left by Dr. Norton’s departure. Since taking over the reins of the Department, Dr. Sugrim has been seeking to put several measures in place to improve the quality of eye care offered at the GPHC. Among these has been the introduction of a triage section. “We are trying to change the clinic whereby it is easier for patients to enter...They see a junior doctor first and if needed then they see a Consultant after,” said Dr. Sugrim as he stressed the importance of streamlining much needed eye surgeries.
Aiding his efforts are six other ophthalmologists (both locals and foreigners). But among the most strategic of moves that have been introduced under Dr. Sugrim’s watch is the introduction of a programme to tackle diabetic retinopathy. This programme has been gaining keen support from a number of organisations including United Statesbased Non Governmental Organisation – Orbis International, the World Diabetes Foundation, the University of Toronto and the Ministry of Public Health. Dr. John Carter, Retinal Surgeon at the Winchester Medical Centre in Virginia, United States during a recent interview with this publication, stressed the importance of screening in order to combat diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy occurs in persons who are diagnosed with diabetes. But the challenge associated with this condition is that it can develop to an alarming level without an individual developing noticeable signs and symptoms. According to Dr. Carter, who has been offering his service through Orbis International, “The most important thing that we want to do is make sure that all patients who have diabetes have their eyes examined even before they have symptoms. So the best option is that every patient with diabetes has an eye examination as soon as they are diagnosed.” This, however, must be an ongoing process whereby patients are screened annually, even if they do not develop symptoms. “What we are trying to avoid is
patients waiting until their vision is bad, because often when their vision is very bad they would develop vision loss and we can’t get it back. So the treatment is most effective even before the patient notices something is wrong,” explained Dr. Carter. In order to adhere to the call for early screening, Dr, Sugrim said that the Ophthalmology Department has brought on board two Optometrists – Andrew Adams and
PAGE 15
Dr. Shailendra Sugrim with the two optometrists on his staff.
Fionna Todd. “We’ve employed the two optometrists and they are doing the screening,” related Dr. Sugrim as he revealed that another measure that have been embraced is the training of consultants in the Ophthalmology Department so that they can better cater to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. According to published reports, if an Continued on page 27
PAGE 16
Linden Teen charged for robbing woman, attacking Police A teenager was remanded to prison on Monday when he appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. On February 8, last, at Canvas City, Wismar Linden, while being armed with a gun the teen allegedly robbed Lynnette Richmond of four gold chains value $210,000, four rings value $80,000 and one silver ring value $3,500. It is also alleged that on February 7, last, at the Mackenzie Sport Club Ground, Linden he assaulted a police officer. The handy man pleaded not guilty to the charges. While Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones did not gave facts in the matters he objected to bail based on the serious nature of the offence and penalty it attracts. The defendant was remanded to prison and he will make his next Court appearance on February 21, at the Linden Magistrate’s Court.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Grant secured for music development Teachers and students will soon be afforded the opportunity to be trained to create music, using technology. The National School of Music has acquired a grant to introduce a music programme that allows for the creation of music with the use of a software programme. This was disclosed by the National School of Music Administrator, Andrew Tyndall. Tyndall noted that the money was obtained from the Canadian Development Bank through the Basic Needs Trust Fund. The training, according to a government release, will
be conducted with teachers and students from various schools throughout the regions and will commence in March. The programme, according to Tyndall, should be a success since the government has been investing heavily to ensure that every school has a computer laboratory. “They already have what we could say is the basic instrument that is required, they have a computer lab so once the teachers get the training they could go back and they have somewhere they could teach this programme,” Tyndall explained.
Additionally, the programme will give persons who are creative and do not know how to play an instrument but are “tech savvy” to be able to create music. Since the programme will be in the form of software, it can be installed on devices such as a laptop or an I-Pad. “You could use that same instrument that you use to play games or to do your assignment or to do your research that will become your work station, you could produce music, you could build tracks,” Tyndall stated. Tyndall pointed out that the programme will also serve as a means to empower youths who can, in the future,
National School of Music, Administrator, Andrew Tyndall become entrepreneurs with the establishment of their own recording studio.
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Kaieteur News
PAGE 25
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LAND FOR SALE Land @ Soesdyke, 6 lots measuring 135’X175’. Call: 627-3334/696-8935, email:fcranmore@guyana voice.com SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/6605257
Visa Application: U.S.A, C a n a da & UK; Guyana p assport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 6267040; 265-4535.
Register Now! Cosmetology, Nails & Wig designs courses, classes commence February 20th 2017. Call: 618-2417
INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.
Tuschen front (with fence) $2.8M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.6M, Zeelugt -$2M, Uitvlugt -$2M. Call:642-1252 La Parfaite Harmonie - $1.4M, $1.8M, $2M, Farm-$6M, Uitvlugt -$2M, Diamond $4M, Tuschen School Street -$3M, Herstelling -$5M. Call: 604-6724 La Parfaite Harmonie- 1.4M, $1.8M, $2M, $3.5M, Uitvlugt -$2M, $4.5M, Herstelling $5M, Tuschen (front) -$2.5M negotiable. Call: 614-6802 30 Acres of Land at Yarrowkabra, Linden, Soesdyke Highway, price $20M negotiable. Call: 6615033/663-5524
Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045
Glam & Co. Beauty Salon: New Market Street, GT Hair Station, available for rental. Call: 638-1106
Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves – Contact Nick: 6831312, 627-3206
One fast food supervisor, one dhalpuri maker, one dishwasher. Call: 225-0723 for more information.
Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:629-4946 or 225-4822
Eccles (100ftX50ft) New Scheme -$6M, Uitvlugt $2.5M, la Parfaite Harmonie $1.3M, Bartica -$6M. Call: 233- 3006/658-5897/651-1969
Customer Service Reps for Express International. Call 267-2992 or email jobs@expresstrucking corp.com.
Land at Faria’s Dream, East Bank Demerara -$3.8M. Call: 665-8995
Landscaping: We design, supply and implement residential and commercial indoor & outdoor Landscaping. Call 648-1821
The # 1 Plant Shop, is hiring general maintenance and sales staff. Persons 2030yrs call 643-7193
Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158
VACANCY
Mining lands available for sublet in the following areas: Northwest, Kaburi, Middle Essequibo, Waini / Buckhall. Contact 629-5070 & 687-5814
Manager for Farm, Kuru Kuru Highway, must have van & lorry license, 35years & older. Call: 680-9898
GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)
Property at 14 th Avenue, Diamond, New Scheme, E.B.D -$23M negotiable – Call: 668-6940/601-1355 One concrete building (incomplete) in residential area. Price negotiable. Call: 699-4114 Goat Creek, Riverfront , 75 Acres land -$7M, Lanaballi River Front, 50 Acres -$9M. Call: 688-0087 Riviera Island: 145Acres -$30M, Tuschen property -$5.8M, $6M, $15M. Call: 688-0087 Tuschen 5,8,6,2 bedrooms; Hope- 2 bedrooms $7.8M, Enmore Land -$1.5M. Call: 688-0087 FOR SALE/RENT 2 Storey house for sale or rent $15M, rental -$20,000 each flat- Call: 672- 9428/ 684-0036 Ms Ramotar.
EDUCATIONAL I.A.E Classes for CSEC June 2017: Mathematics, English A, Business & Science Subject for Students, Adults & repeaters. Call: 683-5742
2 Bedrooms apartment close to PHG & Market -$50,000 monthly. Call: 223-9677 New Road- V/Hoop- 3 bedrooms, top flat suitable for residence/offices. Call:649-1434/ 602-2818
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. 1 Stembow Boat & Engine, 200HP Yamaha with Power Steering Kit. $1.6M Negotiable Call 658-5299/ 638-7748 Honda CBR 929 for sale; also land at Bushy Park, E.B.E – Call: 694-4609 1 Big music set, owner migrating. Call: 690-5225 1 Professional music set (complete), 1 Jacuzzi whirlpool. Call: 253-3070/654-2732 Cool Tech Solution: 6754959/233-2008: New & used spare parts: fridge, freezer, washer, A/C, chill water system, ice makers. 1 Marina 40HP outboard engine with 14 Aluminum boat, 1 Yamaha 75HP outboard engine in excellent condition. Call: 643-1622 Next to new 7 Land Ranger & Nordic Track Incline treadmill $79,000. Call: 673-9283
TO LET
Design & Make Aluminum windows, doors, stainless rails, showcases, rolling shutters, make & install automatic doors. Call: 2336818/677-5599/659-9999 1 Hilux Manual- GSS 5822, 1 Noah, excellent condition, GVV 5554. Call: 641-2763 Like new Apple I-Phone 6 and I-phone 6 plus 64GB $79,000. Call: 675-3062 1 Slate pool table- $275,000, Toyota Wagon -$175,000. Call: 661-5099 Garden Centre & Plant Shop, Valentines Plant Sale Feb 419, 10am-4pm at Plantation Schoonard – Call: 615-2346/ 628-0200
VEHICLE FOR SALE 320i BMW for sale. Call: 6381106
LEARN TO DRIVE
TAXI SERVICE
PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
Private custom house broker certificate training course; March 6 th, 2017. Register early and get 25% discount. Call: 694-8322
Cook & baker for Interior location. Call: 618-2020
1 Female cleaner for office in Eccles and home- Call: 2332745
C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj Building- Call: 644-5166; 6222872; 615-0964; 689-5997 (affordable packages).
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Kaieteur News
CAR RENTAL
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 677-7827, 6435122, EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM
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AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MIN BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPOTR & FAMILY OUTING, CHEAPESTRATE . Call: 698-7807
MASH SPECIAL! 2010 TOYOTA AX10 - $2.6M, 2010 TOYOTA RAUM $2.3M – CALL: 642-7295 Ford Raptor-$8.5M, Audi A4$3.5M, BMW 318i-$2.5M, Toyota Ist-$1.9M, Honda S2000 Convertible-$3M. Contact#650-0402 1 RZ mini bus, late BNN series, VVTI -$1.3M negotiable. Call: 656-6852/ 231-6552
Cook & Cashier for snackette, attractive salary. Call: 697-5387/ 677-9279 Wanted land to buy: La Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt, Zeelugt, Tuschen. Call: 6579594 Office staff with 5 CXC subjects, must be computer literate. Also 1 MechanicTel:218-5105 One domestic to work in Trinidad, between ages of 25-35. Call 1-868- 683-1528 One driver/porter & porter. From Diamond, Grove area. Call: 216-1043, 677-6620 We buy land in Eccles, Providence, Herstelling, Farm, Uitvluft, Zeelugt, La Parfaite Harmonie, Tuschen. Best Price Pay! Call: 614-6802 Experienced roti/puri, curry cooks, counter servers, cleaners, strictly day shift. Apply @ Hack’s Halaal, 5 Commerce Street. One skilled or semi skilled gasoline mechanic, attractive salary – Contact: 231-6587, 649-1290/ 671-8122 Experienced taxi driver at Princess Hotel @ Providence. Call: 616-5419 Talented Hairstylists and Nail Technicians needed. Overseas Employment, Tortola, BVI. Call (284) 5431410 or email bvisalonowner@gmail.com. Driver/Porter for water truck on the E.B.D- Call/Whatsapp: 682-1048 Corilla Bush (dried) in large quantities any amount. Call: 665-1397 One live in female supervisor for bar & grocery starting salary -$80,000 monthly, age 25-35yrs- Call: 610-3974 Experienced puri/roti cooks. Apply at Shanta’s The Puri Shop, 225 Camp & New Market Streets. Require to rent for keeping classes. Call: 665-2274
Allion, Premio, Blue Bird, IST, Honda CRV, Toyota Spacio, Fielder Wagon, 212 Carina, RZ & Pitbull bus – Call: 650-7501 CAR RENTAL
WANTED
WANTED Maid must know how to cook & clean well, need reference, police clearance from E.C.D – Contact: 677-4637 Waitress to work in bar, experience female office clerk; age 18-25, security guards. Call: 638-5303/ 227-7380 Body work man- Call: 6603004
Experienced cook & cashier to work in Restaurant & internet café; preferably from the West Bank or West Coast. Call: 678-3400 Annabel Bistro. One male to work on chicken farm in the interior, must have knowledge about chicken rearing. Call: 680-2702 We pay immediate cash for land in Eccles, Herstelling & Farm, all legal fees and cleaning. Call: 233-3006/6585897/ 651-1969 Continue on page 29
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Kaieteur News
PAGE 27
Queens-based Guyanese man, 28, fatally pinned by forklift Police inspecting the accident scene.
GPHC recruits optometrists to... From page 15 individual is diagnosed with diabetes their blood glucose or blood sugar can become too high and over time this can damage their eyes. The most common outcome is diabetic retinopathy which is said to be a leading cause of blindness in adults diagnosed with diabetes. The retina is the lightsensitive tissue at the back of the eye. In order to see clearly a healthy retina is required but once diabetic retinopathy steps in it can damage the tiny blood vessels inside the retina. Although patients may not recognise the
developing damage at an early stage, the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include blurry or double vision, rings, flashing lights or blank spots, dark or floating spots, pain or pressure in one or both eyes and trouble seeing things out of the corner of the eyes. Treatment for diabetic retinopathy includes laser surgery, which according to Dr. Sugrim, is offered at the GPHC. However, according to Dr. Carter, the best option is always to find the problem at an early stage and prevent vision loss altogether. Cataract is recognised by
a cloud over the lens of the eye which can be remedied surgically while glaucoma happens when pressure builds up in the eye damaging the main nerve. The latter can be addressed with eye drops or surgery too.
From page 28
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Bottom flat house @ 25 North Road & Oronoque Street, fully furnished/ air condition/residence / business. Call: 226-7012 Brains Construction & Rental Service: we rent all types of equipment, excavator, bobcat, trucks, tools. Call: 2190904/601-5024 Space for rent at Ashmin’s ideal for commercial, office and cafeteria use, no deposit. Call: 616-9660/ 671-1846 Lot 14 Croal & Longden Street: 4 Storey building (infront Demico). Call: 663-1876 Prime business place on Sheriff Street to rent only for offices. Call: 627-6740 or 2278644 Property for rent; 3 bedrooms top and bottom flat house on W.C.D, Canal No #2 Polder -$35,000 monthly. Call: 613-1860
New York (New York Daily News) - A construction worker was crushed to death in a freak accident outside an FDNY warehouse in Queens, police sources said. Rakesh Ram, 28, who works for Napa Auto Parts, was driving a forklift on Review Ave. by 35th St. in Long Island City when he stopped in front of a van about 12:35 p.m. The worker put the forklift in neutral, stepped out and walked toward the van to load boxes, police sources said. That’s when the forklift rolled forward, pinning him between it and the van. Medics
rushed him to Elmhurst Hospital Center, where he died. The warehouse, a squat tan brick building, sits on an industrial street. A s i g n i n f r o n t r e a d s “ F. D . N . Y. P a r t s Delivery,” and inside, wrapped boxes are stacked high. The yellow Yale forklift bears the name of Continental Lift Truck, a company in South Ozone Park, but the equipment belongs to the FDNY. The rental manager at Continental Lift Truck said it’s possible the company serviced the vehicle at some point.
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Kaieteur News
$72M in cheques written to ghost suppliers In a clear breach of financial regulations, Region Six, East Berbice/Corentyne Democratic Council, has been preparing millions of dollars in cheques for supplies no one even knew existed. During the statutory Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting at Parliament chambers on Monday, the issue was extensively discussed and PAC Chairman Irfaan Ali sought answers to the worrying development. The irregularity was found in 2015 when the Auditor General’s Office conducted a financial audit of that Region’s affairs. The Region is still in receipt of a number of those cheques and was advised to send them to the Accountant General’s department to be deposited into the consolidated fund. Additionally, the Region has been preparing these cheques based on the local tender board approval of projects rather than invoices provided by suppliers for supplies that should have been provided. The Deputy Regional Executive Officer who is responsible for finance was asked to explain why such breaches occurred. Ali asked the DREO after the Tender Board awarded the contract, what were the criteria used to prepare the cheques. The DREO explained that it was upon the Tender
Board’s award that the cheques were prepared. “You can’t cut a cheque based on a Tender Board award,” Ali lamented. Strangely these cheques were prepared in advance of the expected delivery of the supplies and were made out for the full amount. Ali was baffled about the reasoning behind such a move. “So if you cut a cheque for $8M and the man does $2M dollar work what happens there?” The officer was advised that this should not be done; probing further Ali sought more clarity on the issue from the DREO whose answer did not find favour with the PAC Chairman. At this point he suggested that the Region take some time to get the facts straight. When the regional officials returned much did not change with regard to the explanation they gave and it was at this point the Chairman began to get impatient with the group. The DREO told the committee that no invoices were prepared by any supplier, but that it was his decision to prepare the cheques based on the Tender Board award. “Mr. Chairman, I admit that the supplies should have been provided before cheques were prepared”. After further questioning it was realized that the Region had in fact prepared a number of cheques to suppliers that
didn’t exist. This was to ensure that monies are not sent back to central government and to ensure that their books were balanced. The Chairman admonished the Regional officers and informed them that such practices are unethical and leaves room for serious irregularities and this should cease. He asked if the practice was still ongoing and was answered in the negative by the REO, Kim Williams Stephens. “You are before the Public Accounts Committee, REO, and this is not a show court. This is a serious committee.” Ali said that should he find out otherwise he will recommend that sanctions be brought against the Region and its officials. When the Auditor General Office did an audit of that Regional Council in 2015 he found that 240 cheques totaling $72.39M were still with the Regional Accounting Unit and the Sub-Treasury. Two hundred and twenty-seven of those cheques were returned to the Accountant G e n e r a l ’s D e p a r t m e n t while the remainder is still sitting at the Region Six office. The regional officials explain that efforts will be made to update and return the cheques so that they can be deposited into the consolidated fund.
Police still to arrest, charge... From page 14 investigation into not only the construction of the building but also into the handling of hundreds of millions of dollars of fertilizers. According to Government sources, investigations found the
principals of the contracting company are close relatives of the engineer. Investigators reportedly also found that Hanniel Madramootoo, who was assigned to oversee the project, allegedly used a family member to conduct transactions at the Tender
Board relating to the project. The forensic audit which triggered the recommendations for the charges would tell a worrying tale of how things were at GMC between January 1, 2012 and May 31, 2015, the time under review. With regard to the construction of the building, in 2011 a contract was awarded to Constantine Engineering and Construction Services to build a new head office for GMC and the Guyana Shop, which it runs. A contract in the amount of $23.96M was awarded by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). However, the auditor could not review the bidding d o c u m e n t s a s N P TA B could not find any information that it was involved in the tender process even though the contract indicated otherwise.
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Alleged purse snatcher beaten to death at Good Hope -female AFC Councilor, father detained Police are questioning a female Alliance For Change Councillor and her father, in connection with the vigilantestyle beating death of a 22year-old man at Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo. The victim, who is said to be a fisherman, was allegedly beaten with pieces of wood at around 16. 30 hrs, shortly after accosting the AFC member. One report stated that the man, whose surname was given as Nazamadeen, had attempted to snatch the woman’s handbag while she
The beaten suspect.
was walking. It is alleged that the woman, a 28-year-old dental technician, complained to her father, and the ‘thief’ was pursued, tied and beaten. He succumbed shortly after. The dental technician and
her 48-year-old father were subsequently taken into custody. Reports indicate that Nazamadeen was slain shortly after seeking refuge in the burnt-out property where (Continued on page 29)
Forensic audit flags $184M... From page 9 $124.5M. This had accumulated to over $180M by April 2011. An email from Matthew Wade, of Bill Direct to Jason Ali of GPL, dated September 16, 2009, saw the collector offering a number of excuses, including that there were delays in the deposits by the sub-agents to deposit payments of customers on time to the banks. The forensic auditor said that GPL had a number of options when it realized there was a problem but did little. Aeshwar Deonarine, GPL’s former Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO), had in October 29, 2012, notified the then CEO, Bharat Dindyal, about the issue. Deonarine has since fled Guyana with fraud charges facing him in the local courts over almost $30M he allegedly paid himself. Dindyal is no longer working at GPL. The forensic audit report, seen by Kaieteur News, was highly critical that both Dindyal and Deonarine had ample time to address the issue to lessen the risk of increased losses from Bill Direct’s unremitted collections. The two executives allowed the unremitted collections to rise to over $180M and did nothing to stop Bill Direct from continuing to operate as an authorized agent. “In fact, Bill Direct collected and failed to remit $8,956,390 subsequent to April 2011, at which time its unremitted collections had exceeded G$184 million.” NEGLIGENCE The audit report made it clear that GPL executives demonstrated negligence in dealing with the unremitted collections of Bill Direct by failing to terminate the contract at an earlier date. The negligence was also evident at the Revenue
Management Division, within the Customer Service Department. The division, as it relates to Bill Direct, was charged with the responsibility of managing the relationship with Bill Direct and other authorized agents. There were lapses too with the Finance Department when it came to ensuring proper controls in place. It also appeared that GPL’s Finance Department improperly recorded its accounts receivable amounts to cover up the problems. “The treatment of the amounts outstanding as cash in transit helped to conceal the amount in arrears by Bill Direct. This might have been done to deliberately suppress information from management. It is difficult to determine how this situation was bypassed by so many middle and senior managers.” Even GPL’s Legal Department came in for criticisms. The officials there failed to include some form of collateral or bank guarantee in the agreement between GPL and Bill Direct in an attempt to mitigate the risk of loss in the event that Bill Direct fails to remit collections. The matter went to court with GPL retaining Timothy Jonas, of de Caires Fitzpatrick & Karran, as its external lawyers to deal with the Bill Direct matter. It was found that despite the warning signs since 2009, it was only in April 2011 that GPL took actions asking that Dwayne Roach, CEO of Bill Direct, meet with Deonarine. It was requested by Mr. Bharat Dindyal, then CEO of GPL, to meet with Deonarine. Roach in turn hired Mohabir A. Nandlall & Associates as its legal representative for the matter with GPL. Judgment was granted in favour of GPL on January 11, 2012 against Bill Direct (Guyana) Inc. in the sum of
$175.8M with interest at the rate of 15% per annum from September 2, 2011 until fully paid together with cost in the sum of $442,500. By judgment of court, ordered on July 17, 2013, Republic Bank was ordered to pay over to GPL the balance in the two accounts held there by Bill Direct. This was a paltry $628,519. Shockingly, the forensic audit said that based on the evidence examined, the garnished amounts were the only collateral that Bill Direct had in Guyana that GPL was able to receive. “There is no evidence that GPL has recovered any funds towards the unremitted collections from Bill Direct other than the said amount as mentioned above.” Dindyal, the then CEO paid Timothy Jonas of de Caires Fitzpatrick & Karran over $2M for the legal representation. The audit report was critical of this transaction also with the lawyer. “GPL, thus far, has failed to provide the agreement it has with Mr. Timothy. While the abovementioned amount paid to Mr. Jonas represented deposit on legal charges, we are unable to ascertain what the expected or agreed amount for legal services is.” It was also found that GPL attempted to treat the entire $184M as a Provision for Doubtful Debts in the year 2014, but failed to provide any evidence of authorization. In 2014, the then Board, chaired by Winston Brassington, recommended that GPL use it resources to collect the monies. There was little evidence that GPL was inclined to penalize its officials for failing to protect the state owned entity. A number of recommendations were made by the forensic auditor for GPL to tighten its systems.
Wednesday February 15, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Patchwork plagiarism?
Parking company copies information from other websites There is the old saying that great minds think alike. But in this instance, the similarities between the website of National Parking Systems (NPS) and another international firm, Parking Advisors in Chicago, USA takes that old adage to new heights. On its website, http:// 184.154.188.35/~logotest/im/ nps/home-blog/, NPS speaks about having “deep experience” in “driving value for parking assets across the country.” In this regard, the company speaks to its “Asset Management” Capabilities. In this category, NPS cites its work with the Hudson River Plaza, a building which could not be located. NPS on its website says, “Hudson River Plaza is a nearly one million square foot office building with a 1,300 space parking garage located on New York’s West Side. NPS was hired to identify opportunities to increase cash flow and implement a plan to capitalize on those opportunities. “We identified significant pricing and marketing opportunities as well as revenue leakage gaps. We executed an aggressive asset management program, improving operations, replacing the existing operator and marketing the garage over a 15 month period. “Financial performance increased over $1,000,000 even though office occupancy decreased slightly.” The other firm, called Parking Advisors in Chicago, at http://www.parkingadv.com/ cases.html, also speaks about its experience in Asset Management. It cites 500 West Monroe. This building was found via Google maps. On its website, the company says, “500 West Monroe is a nearly one million square foot office building with a 1,300 space parking garage located in Chicago’s west loop. Parking Advisors was hired to identify opportunities to increase cash flow and implement a plan to capitalize on those opportunities. “We identified significant pricing and marketing opportunities as well as revenue leakage gaps. We executed an aggressive asset management program, improving operations, replacing the existing operator and marketing the garage over a 15 month period. Financial performance increased over $1,000,000 even though office occupancy decreased slightly.” The only changes made by NPS are the name of the buildings, their location and the names of the company. But the resemblance between the two websites does not stop there. NPS goes on to talk about its due diligence.
Chairman for NPS is Ifa Kamua Cush In this regard, the company on its website says, “Civic Center is a high rise residential project with commercial space and a multi-level parking garage. Our client was purchasing the project and engaged NPS to provide solid parking financial projections. “We collected data directly from the operator’s billing system and the onsite revenue control system and leveraged that data to project future cash flows. We also performed a market study and identified opportunities and risks. “As a result of our analysis, our client had a firm financial model as well as an understanding of the risks and opportunities of the parking asset. We also identified significant opportunities to increase revenue and decrease expenses.” The other company, also speaks about due diligence. It says, “Onterie Center is a high rise residential project with commercial space and a multi-level parking garage. Our client was purchasing the project and engaged Parking Advisors to provide solid parking financial projections. “We collected data directly from the operator’s billing system and the onsite revenue control system and leveraged that data to project future cash flows. We also performed a market study and identified opportunities and risks. “As a result of our analysis, our client had a firm financial model as well as an understanding of the risks and opportunities of the parking asset. We also identified significant opportunities to increase revenue and decrease expenses.” Operator FPF project The similarities between the two web pages also continue as both speak to an Operator project. Parking Advisors spoke about having an operator RFP Project. Its website says,
A snippet from the PARKEON website and the description about the business
A screenshot of the NPS website with the same information on PARKEON “The Breakers at Edgewater Beach is a senior living community located in Chicago. The owner struggled to understand why the asset did not achieve greater financial performance and contacted Parking Advisors. “We evaluated and benchmarked the performance of the facility against similar facilities and audited the operations. We determined that changing the operator would lower expenses and we identified additional strategies to improve operations. “We collected proposals from operators, interviewed the operators and negotiated out hidden mark-ups and fees operators typically charge. As a result, net operating income increased over $100,000 or 110%.” NPS coincidentally has a related project with an incredibly similar writing. It says, “Overview Living is a senior living community located in New York. The owner struggled to understand why the asset did not achieve greater financial performance and contacted NPS. “We evaluated and benchmarked the performance of the facility against similar facilities and audited the operations. We determined that changing the operator would lower expenses and we identified additional strategies to improve operations. “We collected proposals from operators, interviewed
the operators and negotiated out hidden mark-ups and fees operators typically charge. As a result, net operating income increased over $100,000 or 110%.” PARTNERS The original plan was that NPS would join forces with Smart City Solutions (SCS) to install solar-powered parking meters in critical areas in Georgetown. However, the parking meter contract makes no mention of NPS. It appears that NPS has taken a seat in the background while SCS has been leading the way on the installation aspect of the project. The Chairman for NPS is Ifa Kamua Cush. He is also a
director on SCS, a company which has no website. Cush who emerged on the local business scene last year, following an announcement by the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, (M&CC) that parking meters will be introduced to ease congestion in certain sections of the city, is facing public scrutiny for details emerging from his sordid past. According to the information contained in online documents, on March 15, 2002 Cush, who is a chief player in the controversial parking meter project, pleaded guilty to grand larceny in the third degree in the County Court of Nassau County.
He was sentenced to four months in jail and five years of probation, and he was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $7,981.50. PROTEST Hundreds of Guyanese have since been protesting against the parking meters stating that it is oppressive, reeks of corruption and represents one of the most disgraceful deals of our time. The group against the parking meter issue has made it clear that it refuses to be placated by temporary cuts in parking meter prices and is calling for the contract to be rescinded. There is another protest planned for tomorrow.
Alleged purse snatcher... (From page 28) elderly rice farmer Mohamed Munir and his wife, Bibi Jamila Munir, were slain in April, 2016. He is said to be the brother of one of the accused in the murder of the elderly couple. A photograph provided to Kaieteur News shows the shirtless man standing on a shed in the Munir’s property. Another photograph shows him lying motionless on the parapet. A resident told Kaieteur News that she was sitting outside her house when she saw the man running into
the burnt out property, with occupants in a vehicle in pursuit. The man then clambered up on a shed and began cursing. He eventually climbed down, only to be caught and
beaten. She said that she later learnt that he had died. Kaieteur news understands that the robbery victim resides at Ruby, East Bank Essequibo.
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Wednesday February 15, 2017
Businessman accused of obtaining money for property under false pretence
Jerold Browne A businessman appeared in a city court yesterday after he allegedly obtained money for a house and land from a woman by false pretence. The man, Harry Baptiste, a businessman, of Queenstown, Georgetown was granted bail in the sum of $200,000 after he made an appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The accused was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that between December 5, 2016 and January 11, 2017, with intent to defraud, he obtained the sum of $2.5M from Audrey Mootoosammy, claiming that he was in the position to sell a house and land situated at Providence, East Bank Demerara, knowing same to
be false. He was instructed to return to court on February 22. Bernard DaSilva, attorney for the accused, indicated that his client and the virtual complaint are in discussions which may see the matter not proceeding to trial. Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones did not oppose bail for Baptiste. In her address to the court, Mootoosammy said that she wants the matter to be resolved but Baptiste is not being cooperative. In another case, the Chief Magistrate admitted a goldminer to $300,000 bail, after he denied a fraudulent conversion charge. It is alleged that on February 8, at Lethem, Central Rupununi, being solely entrusted with 141 penny weight of raw gold valued $1, 666,850, to deliver same to Roxanne Rambisham, Jerold Browne, converted same to his own use and benefit. Browne, 26, of Lot 68 North Haslington, East Coast Demerara, was ordered to appear in the Lethem Magistrate’s Court on March 7. Prosecutor Jones had no objections to the defendant being admitted to bail. He however requested for it to be granted in a substantial amount. Prosecutor Jones also disclosed that Browne has no antecedents.
Oral health high on... (From page 18) to children generally, and visit schools in their vicinities to deliver preventive and curative dental care,” Minister Cummings said. A total of 14 Dentex and four Dental Assistants graduated from the last batch trained within the 2014 – 2016 period. Further there are plans to soon commence a new Dental Auxiliary training programme for Dentex and Dental Assistants, according to Minister Cummings. The School Oral Health Programme of the Ministry of Public Health provides oral health education, brushing demonstrations, curative and preventive services (fillings, prophylaxis, fluoride treatment, sealants, etc.) to Nursery, Primary and selected Secondary Schools in all 10 administrative regions of Guyana. This programme is supported by Colgate Palmolive Limited in the form of a stipend for the Dentists and Dental Auxiliary personnel who visit schools. According to Minister Cummings, the programme sees the organization providing samples of toothpaste and toothbrushes which are distributed to all school children. The most active regions are Regions three, four, six, and Georgetown. In other areas, while this programme is being implemented, it is done only partially due to constraints such as the lack of enough Mobile Dental Equipment to facilitate widespread visits, Minister Cummings informed.
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood
Wednesday February 15, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Jamaica police order tints removed from public vehicles KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Police have announced the immediate removal of tints from public passenger vehicles (PPV) as the authorities implement measures to deal with the recent of recent incidents of women and children being abducted by perpetrators posing as taxi operators. Last week, Prime Minister Andrew Holness gave instructions for the removal of tints from PPVs and Head of the Police Traffic Division, Senior Superintendent (SSP) Calvin Allen said for motor cars, no tint will be allowed on the back windscreen, no tint will be allowed on the two front windows and no tint will be allowed on the (front) windscreen, except for a six-inch visor from the top. He told reporters that the requirements for the coaster and minibuses are similar, pointing out that the only difference will be the tinting allowed for the windscreen. “For the coaster bus, no tint will be allowed on the back glass, nor the two im-
mediate glasses at the side of the vehicle; therefore, there ought to be a clear view on the back seat of those public passenger vehicles,” Allen said. “For the glass that is on either side of the vehicle coming up to where the driver sits, a 70 per cent inward view will be allowed. For the driver ’s door, that glass should have no tint, neither will there be any tint for the passenger that sits across from where the driver sits, as well as the door that the conductor operates from,” he added. In terms of the windscreen of the coaster buses, Allen said a nine-inch visor will be allowed and that vehicles with factory tints that are being utilised as PPVs will be given a grace period to become regularised. “They will go through certain testing by the Island Traffic Authority. If the grade tint that is there is of the required standard, that will be accepted; if the grade tint that is there is not of the required
standard, a twelve-month period is being allowed for the owner/operator to correct and to become legitimate,” he
said. He said operators found in breach will be charged J$2,500 (One Jamaica dollar =US$0.008 cents) and that
fines are expected to increase once the new Road Traffic Act is passed in Parliament. He said the regulations
will also be extended to the State-owned bus entity, the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC).
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Wednesday February 15, 2017
Sanctioned for drugs, Venezuela vice president slams U.S. ‘aggression (Reuters) - Venezuela’s powerful vice president yesterday called his blacklisting by the United States on drug charges an “imperialist aggression” in the first bilateral flare-up between the two countries under new U.S. President Donald Trump. “We shall not be distracted by these miserable provocations,” said Tareck El Aissami, the most senior Venezuelan official yet sanctioned by the United States. “We will see this vile aggression dispelled,” he added in a series of defiant tweets before appearing on state television looking unruffled as he presided over a government meeting. The U.S. Department of Treasury on Monday labeled El Aissami a drug “kingpin,” accusing him of facilitating shipments by air and sea, and having links to drug gangs in Mexico and Colombia. El Aissami joined a sanctions list that already includes a half-dozen other Venezuelan officials or former officials. The designation allows the Treasury Department to freeze assets in the United States and prevents them from conducting financial transactions through the United States. Socialist President Nicolas Maduro has frequently cast U.S. and opposition accusations of drug trafficking, corruption and human rights abuses as a false pretext to justify meddling in Venezuela and trying to topple him. Maduro, 54, narrowly won election in 2013 to replace the late Hugo Chavez, but his popularity has plummeted amid an economic crisis in the nation of 30 million people. Though he frequently lambasted former President Barack Obama, the Venezu-
elan president has so far refrained from criticizing Trump. Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez, however, said it was “lamentable and highly dangerous” to see the new U.S. administration “perpetuate the historic mistakes against Venezuela” made by the Obama government. The United States also blacklisted local businessman Samark Lopez, terming him a “frontman” for the vice president. Lopez responded in a statement that he was a “legitimate businessman” and “has not engaged in drug trafficking.” The sanction on El Aissami, a 42-year-old lawyer and criminologist, dents Maduro’s hopes that Trump might avoid a confrontation with Venezuela but could also help him by providing a nationalist card to play, said David Smilde, a Tulane University professor and Venezuela expert. “This is a tremendous gift to Maduro as it ensures El Aissami’s loyalty. It essentially increases El Aissami’s exit costs and gives him a personal stake in the continuation of ‘Chavismo’,” he said. “To be clear, El Aissami and others should be held responsible for their actions. However it should be understood this process has pernicious unintended consequences. I think we are effectively witnessing the creation of a rogue state.” El Aissami, whom local media say is of Syrian and Lebanese descent, grew up poor in the Andean state of Merida. He was a lawmaker, interior minister and state governor for the ruling Socialist Party before becoming vice president last month. A long-time confidant and member of Chavez’s and
Maduro’s inner circles, El Aissami was given wider powers as vice president in a decree last month and is being touted in some circles as a possible future president. MAJOR DRUG HUB? Venezuelan opposition groups have long accused El Aissami of repressing dissent, participating in drug trafficking rings, and supporting Middle Eastern groups such as Hezbollah. Narcotics experts say Venezuela is a major hub for drug shipments. The Treasury Department said he oversaw or partially owned shipments of more than 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) on multiple occasions, including to Mexico and the United States. The citation did not specify the drug, though the most common narcotic trafficked in the region is cocaine. “As a result of today’s action, significant real property and other assets in the Miami, Florida area tied to Lopez Bello have been blocked,” it said, referring to Samark Lopez. The sanction was a departure from the so-called “soft landing” approach taken by Obama’s White House. At times it had clashed with efforts by the U.S. Justice Department and Drug Enforcement Administration, which worked with informants in Venezuela to nab officials for money laundering and drug crimes. Since 2015, the Obama administration had sought to use behind-the-scenes diplomacy to ease acrimony with Caracas and the fallout from a string of U.S. indictments against Venezuelan officials, including Interior Minister Nestor Reverol.
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Kaieteur News
T&T govt. bows again to opposition demands on FATCA PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – The Trinidad and Tobago government bowed to opposition demands for a further extension on the debate of the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) with Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley indicating that a vote on the legislation will take place on February 23. The government and the opposition legislators have been at odds over the passage of the legislation enacted by the United States government in March 2010. It requires foreign financial institutions to report directly to the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) all clients who are US citizens, green card holders living in the US or abroad, or foreign entities in which US taxpayers hold a substantial ownership interest. The deadline for passing the legislation is the February 20 and the government needs the support of the opposition for the special majority needed to pass the bill. Last month, the government bowed to an opposition demand that the bill be sent to a Joint Select Committee (JSC) of the Parliament before a vote is taken and when the matter resumed in the Parliament on Monday, opposition legislators again demanded an extra week to further discuss the report of the JSC. “Today for the nth time I heard my colleagues saying that we in the government set about to terrorise people and to mislead people and of course to quote my college from Siparia (Opposition leader Kamla Persad Bissessar) the sky will not fall in if it doesn’t pass,” Prime Minister Rowley told legislators. “We of the government of Trinidad and Tobago, we can’t take that position. Because we are convinced and we know that the sky may not fall in, but many many storm clouds could fall in Trinidad and Tobago if we don’t pass this bill. “And that is why we bend over backwards and have gone the lengths and tonight we going the last week,” Rowley said, as he made his contribution to the debate some eight hours after it started on Monday afternoon. But the opposition maintains that it would not be coerced into agreeing to “bad law” and accused the government of trying to terrorise the population. Former works and transport minister Dr. Suruj Rambachan told legislators
T&T Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley that the Bankers Association of Trinidad and Tobago (BATT) was also part of the strategy to bring fear into the population. “Who is really imperilling the future of this country and it is not the opposition, it is you who are doing that. It is you, who by trying to be a bull in a China shop, trying to bully the opposition, trying to get your way, knowing that there is a deficiency, you are the ones imperilling the future of this country and I hesitate to think that you are being supported by the Bankers Association of Trinidad and Tobago and other institutions…who are somehow putting on blinkers to a range of truths that exist about this FATCA legislation,” Rambachan said. Rowley told legislators that his administration is prepared for the JSC to have “one more meeting” and that during the debate there were claims of documents yet to be received as well as a “plethora of accusations and allegations. “I want to make it abundantly clear that the government from the beginning set out to have this bill passed so as to allow the people of Trinidad and Tobago not to be subjected to the deleterious effects of the failure of being deemed to be a noncompliant country. “We started this last September and it is going to end next week Thursday,” he told legislators. Earlier, Finance Minister Colm Imbert told legislators that “it is my sincere hope that
we pass the bill today” and repeated concerns raised by various stakeholders including the BATT that the country would have to deal with severe measures including the loss of corresponding banking, a 30 per cent withholding tax if the deadline for passage of the legislation is not met. He said Washington expects Port of Spain to pass the legislation and meet the guidelines as outlined by September 30, this year. “We have a very short window to put all the mechanisms in place,” Imbert told legislators, adding that the US Embassy here had informed last week that “there has been no change to the US position on FATCA”. The government and the opposition legislators have been at odds over the passage of the legislation. But former leader of Opposition Business, Dr. Roodial Moonilal, said that the opposition would not be rushed into making laws and reminded the government that Trinidad and Tobago is s sovereign state. He said the Keith Rowley administration was “creating a paranoia” and that it should remember that the world has changed significantly. “This is a sovereign country of Trinidad and Tobago and we must never sell out the sovereignty of Trinidad and Tobago,” he said, adding during his contribution that there’s a global tidal wave building up against the FATCA legislation.
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Rosberg warns Bottas about Hamilton rivalry MONACO (Reuters) Retired Formula One world champion Nico Rosberg has warned his Mercedes replacement Valtteri Bottas not to expect an “easy ride” from team mate Lewis Hamilton. Speaking ahead of the Laureus World Sport Awards on Tuesday, the 31-year old said he would be happy to give the Finn some advice ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in March. “I would tell him don’t expect an easy ride, that’s for sure,” Rosberg told reporters in Monaco. “It’s going to be challenging coming into a
new team with Lewis having been there for so many years and with the new regulations. “Lewis is one of the best out there so the level is extremely high. At the same time Valtteri is very talented. He can achieve great things as well, as long as the team give him a good car. “He (Bottas) has asked if we can have a chat soon and I am happy to do that, of course – but I will stay very, very neutral. I won’t give away any Lewis secrets for example, I’ll just help him in a way to integrate better into the team.” Rosberg beat Hamilton to the 2016 drivers’ title only to announce his
shock retirement days later, walking away from a contract reported to be worth around 18 million pounds ($22.48 million) a year. Bottas, 27, has joined the champions after spending the five previous seasons at Williams. This week Rosberg suggested his own long-standing rivalry with Hamilton, which started when they were teenagers in karting, had added friction and he would often feel even more angry when the Briton did “something that crosses the line”. But the German, whose tense relationship with Hamilton on and off the track has been well
Mercedes’ Nico Rosberg crosses the line to win the Italian Grand Prix 2016 race. (Reuters / Max Rossi)
documented, did not rule out a reconciliation with the three-times world champion. “The competition has gone completely, sadly. We’ve already had some nice, relaxed
moments and who knows, I am open to having a better relationship with him again in the future,” he said. “We were best friends after all, 15 years ago.”
Rosberg has been nominated in the World Breakthrough Of The Year category at the 2017 Laureus World Sport for securing his first F1 crown last year.
Pats’ QB Brady says Super Bowl... Wednesday February 15, 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You may be emotional if you allow your lover to take advantage of your good nature. Find ways to mellow out. You are best to stick to yourself today. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Be careful if a friend asks you for advice. Things will be hectic and family members will be erratic. Make plans to mix business with pleasure. Dinner with clients or business associates should be successful. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Communication must be open, precise, and honest. Don't let individuals with wild schemes talk you into a financial deal that is not likely to be successful. Look into ways to make your home more comfortable. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Try to be fair in your dealings with acquaintances. Be prepared to jump quickly if you wish to stay in the forefront of your industry today. Strong willpower will come to your rescue. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Do not let others exhaust you financially. Deception is probable if you don't use discrimination. Don't be too quick to respond to a plea for help. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You can get support from groups that you belong to if you're willing to step out on a limb and voice your opinions. Talk to people who can give you important knowledge. Your courage and willpower will enable you to get rid of destructive habits as well.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You can elaborate on your creative ideas and get involved in groups that relate to the arts. Be careful not to get involved in other people's personal affairs. Avoid any erratic behavior or it could cause isolation at home. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You must be extremely careful not to let relatives or friends interfere in your personal life. People you live with will not be terribly happy with you regardless of what you do today. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Don't reveal anything about your personal life to those who may use such information against you. Avoid confrontations with coworkers who aren't pulling their weight. Arguments could prevail. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You will easily charm members of the opposite sex. You mustn't give too much to your children. Be prepared to make compensations and adjustments. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Don't let your partner get away with spending too much of your money. You can accomplish a great deal. Talk to others about your plans. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You must be careful not to ignore the needs of the youngsters in your family. Any intimate relationships with colleagues will lead to gossip that could easily affect your position. You may find it necessary to confront a situation that has gotten out of hand.
(From page 32) with an epic second half and by the end of the game had delivered a performance for the ages as he set a slew of Super Bowl records, including most completions (43) and most yards passing (466) while collecting Super Bowl most valuable player honours for an unprecedented fourth time. Prior to leading the Patriots back from a 28-3 third-quarter
Arrests made... (From page 33) suspended by the PCB on Monday. The chairman of the PCB, Shaharyar Khan, said that the players would be issued show cause notices. An inquiry was also expected to be initiated by the board. Three other players were questioned by anti-corruption officers in relation to the investigation: Mohammad Irfan, Zulfiqar Babar and Shahzaib Hasan. None was suspended and they were cleared to continue playing at the PSL.
When we pause and experience silence, we discover answers that activity does not have time to reveal. During your day, take three-minute “vacations”. Relax and re-energise. Take time out to feel the peace of silence.
deficit and earning a quarterback-record fifth Super Bowl title, the largest ever deficit overturned in a Super Bowl was from 10 points, three different times. “It was one of the greatest games I have ever played in, but when I think of an interception return for a touchdown, some other missed op-
portunities in the first 37, 38 minutes of the game, I don’t really consider playing a good quarter-and-a-half plus overtime as one of the ‘best games ever.’” said Brady. “But it was certainly one of the most thrilling for me, just because so much was on the line, and it ended up being an incredible game.”
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Pats’ QB Brady says Super Bowl comeback not his best game (Reuters) Tom Brady set several records as he rallied the New England Patriots to an unthinkable Super Bowl win but on Monday the quarterback said his play in the NFL’s title game was far from the greatest of his stellar career. Brady authored the biggest comeback in Super Bowl history when he shook off an uncharacteristically sluggish start to lead his team back from a 25-point deficit and secure a thrilling 34-28 overtime win over the Atlanta Falcons.
“I don’t really think that is necessarily the case,” Brady, 39, told TheMMQB when asked if that game marked the finest work of his Hall of Fame career. Early in the game Brady missed some routine throws, seemed rattled by the pressure Atlanta were putting on him and threw an interception that was returned 82 yards for a touchdown that left New England trailing 21-0 late in the second quarter. But Brady responded (Continued on page 31)
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Half-century for Rawlins as England romp NAGPUR, India - CMC – In-form Bermudian allrounder Delray Rawlins struck an unbeaten 70 as England Under-19s rattled up 501 for five declared on the second day of their opening four-day Youth Test at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium here yesterday. In reply, India closed on 156 for two with Rawlins conceding 14 runs from four overs of left-arm spin. Rawlins, due in at number f o u r, s p e n t m o s t o f Monday’s opening day with his pads on as the visitors
recovered from losing opener Harry Brook for 21 with the total on 57, to close on 311 for one thanks to centuries from captain Max Holden and number three G eorge Bartlett. Bartlett was the first to go yesterday as he was dismissed for 179 after a second-wicket stand of 321 with Holden, who was fourth out for 170 at 418. But there was no respite for the Indian bowlers as Rawlins – one of six Youth Test newcomers in the England team – weighed in with his unbeaten 70 from 94 balls, including four sixes and five fours before the declaration came after 131.1 overs. Rawlins went into the twomatch Test series on the back
Bermudian Delray Rawlins of some sparkling one-day international form, making 107 not out on debut and also scoring 96 during the fivematch series which India won 3-1 after the final game was tied.
Rawlins, who is on the books of English county side Sussex, is hoping his form in India will help him break into the first team this summer. His performances In India have not gone unnoticed by h i s c o u n t y, w h o a r e represented on the tour by assistant coach Jon Lewis, the former England medium pacer, who is the bowling coach for the youngster. “Yeah, I’m lucky enough to have the assistant coach out here as the bowling coach for us, so he’s seeing my performances first hand,” Rawlins said earlier this week. “So I don’t think I’ve done myself any harm in pushing to try and get in the first team this summer.”
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Arrests made in alleged Berbice Volleyball Association holds one day extravaganza PSL corruption case for schools on Friday
Pakistan flags at the PSL opening ceremony © PSL
ESPNCRICINFO - Two men have been arrested in the UK in relation to alleged corruption in the PSL. The National Crime Agency (NCA) released a statement yesterday saying that it was “working closely” with PCB and ICC anti-corruption units and that both men had received bail. The NCA statement said: “Two men in their thirties have been arrested by National Crime Agency
officers in connection with bribery offences as part of an ongoing investigation into international cricket match spot-fixing. “The men were arrested on Monday 13 February and have been released on bail until April 2017 pending further enquiries. “As part of the ongoing investigation we are working closely with the Pakistan Cricket Board and International Cricket Council’s anti-corruption
units. The Pakistan Cricket Board has launched its own investigation which has resulted in the suspension of three players.” Pakistan openers Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif were provisionally suspended from the PSL last week over alleged breaches of the anti-corruption code; Nasir Jamshed became the third player to be provisionally (Continued on page 31)
The Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) will be hosting a volleyball extravaganza for secondary and primary schools in East Berbice Corentyne, Region six. The BVA, which is one of the most active sports associations in the country, will be doing the activity in collaboration with its suicide prevention drive. The one day activity will be held on Friday, at the Port Mourant Community Development Centre and is expected to get started at
13:00hrs. The day’s events are the first of two phases that will involve schools in the Region. The activities will involve various types of volleyball games, novelty events (with prizes), coaching/training and cultural activities among o t h e r e v e n t s . Among the schools expected to be involved are Guysuco Apprentice Training Center, Skeldon Line Path Secondary, Skeldon High School, Tagore Memorial S e c o n d a r y, C e n t r a l
Corentyne, Black Bush Secondary, Winifred Gaskin Secondary, Manchester Secondary Corentyne Comprehensive, Port Mourant Secondary, Lower C o r e n t y n e S e c o n d a r y, Berbice High School and Berbice Educational Institute. Among the Primary schools expected to be a part of the action are- Auclyne Primary, Tain Primary, Port Mourant Primary, Rose Hall Primary, Belvedere Primary, Albion Primary and Cropper Primary. (Samuel Whyte)
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Wednesday February 15, 2017
Thompson confident ahead of World Championships (Jamaica Observer) After a smashing season last year, just the thought of Jamaica’s double Olympic champion Elaine Thompson getting better must be frightening for her rivals, to say the least. Thompson, who swept the 100m and the 200m at the Rio Olympics in 10.71 and 21.78 seconds, respectively, believes she is the one to beat. “As a double Olympic gold medallist, I would say yes (I am the one to beat); I have a slight advantage over others,” said the 24-year-old, a f t e r o ff i c i a l l y b e i n g introduced as the new FLOW brand ambassador on Sunday. “But I mean everybody is training, everybody wants to win and I will have to work hard. Not because I am Olympic champion doesn’t mean I am going to have an advantage. So I will just
have to maintain my focus and composure and continue to be on top,” she added. Thompson, who was a relatively unknown athlete in 2013, showed remarkably improvement and lowered her 100m personal best from 11.41 to 10.70 seconds in just three years, believes there is more in the tank. “I think I have improved and there is more room for improvement,” said Thompson, who opened her season clocking 7.02 seconds over the 60m outdoor at the Queens/Grace Jackson meet on January 28. Her previous best was 7.04 seconds, a clear sign that she is ahead of where she was last year this time. “I am feeling good and the training is going well so far. My main focus is to put in the training and just go out there and perform as the best I can,” she noted.
Last year, Thompson was voted Jamaica’s Sportswoman of the Year for the first time after destroying a quality field to win the 100m at the Rio Olympic by a widening 0.12 margin, clocking a splendid 10.71. She then got sweet revenge in the 200m outlasting her 2015 World Championships conqueror Dafne Schippers of the Netherlands, winning in 21.78 seconds and became the first woman to cop the Olympic double in 28 years after American world record holder Florence GriffithJoyner in 1988. Thompson is expecting to be at her best at the London World Championships in August. “When I go out there to compete, I go to compete, and every year is a learning experience. Beijing was an experience, the Olympics was an experience and
coming forward at this y e a r ’ s W o r l d Championships, I wouldn’t say I have more confidence going into the World Championships,” a confident Thompson pointed out. But before the London World Championships, Thompson has her eyes on making her debut at the Wo r l d R e l a y s i n T h e Bahamas April 22-23. “I am looking forward to the World Relays. I have never been there before and I am looking forward to this year because I know when team Jamaica steps out there, we are going to perform and I am looking forward to be on those relays this year,” said Thompson, with a gleam in her eyes. “The World Relays seem more excited than others and I am looking forward to be in Bahamas,” she added.
Elaine Thompson... I have a slight advantage over others (Photo: Observer file)
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Pride will play tough cricket, warns Carter BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Ace batsman Jonathan Carter has warned that Barbados Pride will be at their best for the semi-finals of the Regional Super50 which bowl off in Antigua today. L a s t y e a r ’s l o s i n g finalists, Pride dominated Group B staged here, losing just one of their eight games as they accumulated 33 points to top their group ahead, five points ahead of the second placed Jamaica Scorpions. Pride take on Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the second semi-final at Coolidge Cricket Ground, with Carter buoyant ahead of the contest. “At the end of the day it is cricket so we will play on the day and see how it goes,”
said the in-form left-hander following Pride’s resounding victory over CCC Marooners in their last preliminary game on Sunday. “In terms of preparation, Barbados Pride we are ready and we are going to play tough cricket. We are all gelling together as a team and a unit and it’s just a matter of playing good cricket on the day.” He added: “Application, d e d i c a t i o n a n d determination, those are the three words I would use. If you saw a couple of the games we had a few challenges and we came out victorious and two of those occasions batting second, and that was the product of having determination and dedication to win.
“I am sure that the guys in the team are ready and willing to win this tournament.” Carter has been one of the mainstays of the Pride batting, gathering three half-centuries during the preliminary round en route to an aggregate of 300 runs at an average of 42. The West Indies batsman said he had entered the tournament full of confidence and though he had failed to score a hundred, his self-belief was still high as the knock out stage approached. “I’ve taken my confidence from the first game. It’s just a matter of me applying myself for the semi-finals and finals if we do get there, so it’s just a
France opens medal account with team gold
Slovakia’s Andreas Zampa (L) looks on as (2nd L to R) France’s Mathieu Faivre, Adeline Baud Mugnier, Alexis Pinturault, Tessa Worley and Nastasia Noens celebrate winning gold during the flower ceremony following the final of the parallel slalom Mixed Team event. (REUTERS/Denis Balibouse) (Reuters) Mathieu Faivre anchored France to nations’ team gold yesterday and their first medal of the 2017 Alpine skiing world championships. Outsiders Slovakia took a surprise silver, losing the final against France by eight hundredths of a second on a tie-break after Faivre won the last race to level the scores at 2-2. The medal was Slovakia’s first in the event at an Alpine world championships. Sweden, who had beaten 2015 champions Austria in the quarter-finals, saw off hosts Switzerland 3-1 for the bronze medal. The mixed team event, contested in the world
championships since 2011 in its current parallel slalom format with two racers on the piste together, will make its Olympic debut at next year’s PyeongChang Winter Games in South Korea. “We didn’t expect it but we were ready to fight really hard to the end,” said France’s Tessa Worley, who joined Faivre, Alexis Pinturault and Adeline Baud Mugnier in racing the final with Julien Lizeroux and Nastasia Noens also in the team. “We knew we could do it but it was a long shot. It was really tight, even in the semifinals with the Swedes.” Austria provided one of the bigger shocks of a sunny afternoon, with five times
World Cup overall champion Marcel Hirscher beaten by both Belgian Dries van der Broecke at the last 16 stage and Sweden’s Andre Myhrer. Slovakia — with a final four of Petra Vlhova, Andreas Zampa, Veronika Velez Zuzulova and Matej Falat — swept past Germany and Italy before also beating Switzerland. “I feel like we won gold today,” said Velez Zuzulova. “We have never won a medal and I personally have never won a world championship medal so I’m really happy with how we as a team did today.” Today is a rest day at the championships before the technical disciplines over the final four days.
matter of my thinking and the situation of the game. He continued: “I’m full of confidence. I’ve been striking the ball pretty well. I wanted to go on to a hundred
[against Marooners] but I had a job to do for the team as always, and I’m a team person so I tried to continue in upping the run rate and it was unfortunate that I got out
on 79.” The first semi-final is set for Wednesday at Coolidge between reigning champions Trinidad and Tobago and Scorpions.
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Wednesday February 15, 2017
West Demerara /East Bank Demerara Guinness Competition
Group stage conclusion and quarter-finals on this evening The final round of the group stage and quarterfinals to be played this evening when play in the West Demerara/East Bank
Demerara Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition resumes, at the Pouderoyen Tarmac. In the opening game at
19:00hrs, West Side Ballers and De Kinderen square off, before Golden Warriors engage Patentia Street Ballers at 19:30hrs.
Next up is the clash between ESPN and Goal Getters from 20:00hrs, before Goed Intent All-Stars and Money Team collide. A gricola Champion Boys then battle Hustlers from 21:00hrs and this encounter precedes the clash between Brothers United and Tajoe’s Admiral United at 21:30hrs.
The final round-robin fixture is a matchup between defending champion Showstoppers and Jetty at 22:30hrs. Following the conclusion of the round robin phase, the quarterfinals will begin. The semi-finals and final will be played on Friday, at the same venue.
The winning team will take home $450,000, the championship trophy and selection to represent the zone at the National Championship. The second, third and fourth placed teams collect $150,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively.
Laureus Awards 2017: Bolt, Biles, Rosberg, Atherton and Leicester among winners
Usain Bolt and Simone Biles dominated their sports at the Rio 2016 Games. BBC Sport - Usain Bolt and Simone Biles claimed the top accolades at the Laureus World Sports Awards in Monaco. Eight-time Olympic sprint champion Bolt and four-time Olympic gold gymnast Biles were named sportsman and sportswoman of the year for their 2016 achievements. B r i t a i n ’s R a c h e l Atherton won the action sportsperson of the year award for her downhill mountain biking feats.Leicester City won the spirit of sport award for winning the Premier League. Atherton, 29, became the first rider in history to complete a perfect downhill World Cup season and then w o n a f o u r t h Wo r l d Championship title a week later. Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri and captain Wes Morgan were in Monaco to collect the s p i r i t o f s port prize, awarded after the Foxes, 5,000-1 outsiders, won the Premier League by 10 points last season. Bolt won three gold medals at Rio 2016 in the 100m,200m and 4x100m relay. That took his all-time Olympic medal tally to nine but last month he was asked to hand one back after
Jamaican team-mate Nesta Carter tested positive for a banned substance. Carter was part of the Jamaican quartet that won the 4x100m in Beijing in 2008. Biles’ four gold medals at Rio were in the team, allaround, vault and floor exercise events. Nico Rosberg, who quit Formula 1 in December five days after being crowned world champion, received the breakthrough of the year prize. Other award winners Team of the year: Chicago Cubs, who ended a 108-year wait to win Major League Baseball’s World Series. Comeback of the year: American swimmer Michael
Phelps, who won his 23rd Olympic gold in his final Games in Rio. Sportsperson of the Year with a disability: B e a t r i c e Vi o , I t a l i a n wheelchair fencer who won gold at the 2016 Paralympics. Sport for Good Award: for Sporting Inspiration: The Refugee Olympic Team, who competed at the Rio Olympics. Best Sporting Moment: Barcelona Under-12 team whose players consoled their distraught Japanese opponents at the end of the J u n i o r S o c c e r Wo r l d Challenge in a touching show of sportsmanship. The Laureus Sport for Good Award: Waves for Change.
DCC sends condolences to Harper family The President, Executive and members of the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) regret the passing of Mrs. Lynette Harper, the mother of two of the stalwart members of the club– Roger and Mark Harper. The Club sympathizes with our colleagues and joins with them in mourning the loss of their dear mother. It is our sincere wish that the Divine Architect of the Universe will endow them with strength of character, courage and fortitude to withstand and endure this difficult period of bereavement – as we are sure in the knowledge that “TO LIVE IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE WE LEAVE BEHIND IS NOT TO DIE.” Her memory will forever burn bright and clear in the hearts and minds of the Harper brother’s extended family at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC).
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Double-murder trial for ex-NFL star Aaron Hernandez set to begin BOSTON (Reuters) Former National Football League star and convicted killer Aaron Hernandez was due back in a Boston courtroom yesterday for his second murder trial, this time on charges that he shot two men dead outside a nightclub after a dispute over a spilled drink. Prosecution and defence lawyers are set to begin the lengthy process of selecting a jury from a pool of 600 candidates, a week after his former teammates paraded through the city to celebrate their fifth Super Bowl win. Massachusetts Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Locke
has set aside more than two weeks for jury selection, with prosecutors’ opening statements not expected until March. Hernandez, 27, is already serving a life sentence after another jury convicted him of fatally shooting an acquaintance, Odin Lloyd, in an industrial park near his North A t t l e b o r o u g h , Massachusetts home in June 2013. The athlete’s fame will make it challenging to find jurors who have never heard of him, likely causing attorneys to instead seek people who had not followed
Former NFL player Aaron Hernandez and defense attorney Charles Rankin wait in the courtroom during the jury deliberation in his murder trial at the Bristol County Superior Court in Fall River, Massachusetts, April 10, 2015. (REUTERS/CJ Gunther/Pool/File Photo)
his prior murder trial, said Robert Bloom, a professor at Boston College Law School. That questioning would have to proceed delicately to avoid introducing the idea. “You don’t want to mention it so it would be a more open-ended question like, ‘Have you ever heard of him and what have you heard about him,’” Bloom said. The heavily tattooed
tight end, who has pleaded not guilty, had been a rising star with a $41 million contract when he was arrested for Lloyd’s slaying. The Patriots cut him hours after he was taken into custody. Hernandez had been in custody for almost a year when prosecutors charged him with fatally shooting Cape Verdean nationals Daniel Abreu and Safiro
Furtado in 2012 outside a Boston nightclub, after one of the men accidentally spilled a drink on him. Prosecutors plan to call as a witness a former friend of Hernandez’s, Alexander Bradley, who was present on the night of Abreu and Furtado’s slaying. Hernandez is also c h a rg e d w i t h w i t n e s s intimidation for having shot Bradley in the face. That
incident cost Bradley an eye. During Hernandez’s first trial, which ran for four months in 2015, jurors heard that the native of Bristol, Connecticut, was a regular user of marijuana and sometimes the stimulant PCP who owned guns and at times acted paranoid, telling his friends he did not believe they appreciated the things he did for them.
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Prem’s Electrical supports Regal for Florida Cup
Prem’s Electrical of Alexander Street, Bourda, have supported Regal for the Florida Softball Cup which is set to commence on February 24. P r e m ’s E l e c t r i c a l manager Ms. Nirmala presented a cheque to Videsh Persaud of Regal All Stars at a simple ceremony held at t h e e n t i t y ’s l o c a t i o n , recently. Ms. Nirmala said they are pleased to be
associated with the Regal as they look to bring glory to Guyana once again, and wished the teams well. Persaud thanked the entity for the support. Regal Masters and All Stars are among several Guyanese teams slated to take part in the tournament which will conclude on February 26 at Central Broward Regional Park and Stadium, Lauderhill,
Florida. The event, which is being hosted by the Honourary Consul of Guyana in association with the South Florida Softball Cricket League, forms part of the Guyana Republic Day celebrations in Florida. Regal last outing saw their Masters and All Stars teams winning the New York Legends and Independence Cup in 2016.
Letter to the Sports Editor
Clarifying my position on the AAG Elections Dear Editor, Please permit me space in your newspaper to sensitise the sporting public, and more particularly, the athletics fraternity on my position as it relates to track and field in Guyana. The recently concluded Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) Elections saw Mr. Aubrey Hutson returning as President, defeating Mr. Shen Fung six votes to three. Prior to the Elections, I w rote a letter to the Returning Officer, Dr. Karen Pilgrim (as permitted in the AAG Constitution), indicating that in my absence from the Annual General Meeting, I would be willing to accept the position of Vice-President under Mr.
Fung’s stewardship after I was nominated for that post. That simply meant that I was not willing to serve under the Presidency of Mr. Hutson. I wish to remind the athletics fraternity that my withdrawal of an injunction that was filed in 2013, after the illegal voting of clubs was permitted to defeat me, was an act of goodwill after much consultation and pleas from the athletics fraternity. This was to allow the sport of track and field to avoid the court dilemma as cricket, for instance. In news emanating from some media houses following the AAG Elections, it was indicated that I received one vote only, which came as a surprise to
Savage Masters overcame Regal Masters to take Ogle CC softball crown Savage Masters defeated Regal Masters by three runs to win the final of the Ogle Community Centre softball tournament which was contested on Sunday. Batting first, Savage Masters managed 131-3 off their allotted 15 overs. Ramo Malone stuck 42 while Rishie Ramsaywack made 3 1 , U n n i s Yu s u f 3 0 . Raymond Harper claimed 327. Regal Masters responded with 128. Mahase Chunilall led with 54 while Eon Abel got 23 and Rudolph Baker 22 not out. Malone snared 327. In the semi-finals, Regal beat Mike’s Wellman by 36 runs, while Savage got the better of Ariel Masters by 17 runs. Ariel rebounded to
Videsh Persaud of Regal All Stars accepts the cheque from Ms. Nirmala.
me since my letter to the Returning Officer was clear on my position. Obviously, the voter did not understand the contents of my letter. As the Chairman of the Boyce/Jefford Track and Field Classic, I will continue to work to ensure that the sport remains vibrant and to ensure athletes are rewarded for their hard work and performance. I trust that this new AAG Executive will not permit Mr. Hutson to drag the sport down any slippery slope, and I trust that all athletes that merit selection to represent this land of ours, whether locally or overseasbased, will be treated equally. Respectfully, Colin Boyce.
Wednesday February 15, 2017
Ramo Malone beat Mike’s in the third place play-off. The top three teams and Most Valuable Player, Ramo Malone received trophies.
The day’s activity was organised by the executives and members of the Ogle Community Centre to raise funds for the club.
Commissioner, Jordan mediate in Oakley row (Reuters) NBA commissioner Adam Silver and Michael Jordan tried to ease the tension between New York Knicks owner James Dolan and former player Charles Oakley during a conference call on Monday, the league said in a statement. Dolan and Oakley have been estranged for some time but their relationship hit a nadir when Oakley was forcibly removed from a Knicks game after an altercation with security guards and subsequently arrested on Wednesday. As a result, Dolan announced that Oakley, who played the bulk of his 19year career in New York but had been publicly critical of the Knicks owner, was barred from Madison Square Garden (MSG). “It is beyond disheartening to see situations involving members of the
NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks at a press conference before a NBA game between the Indiana Pacers and the Denver Nuggets at the O2 Arena. (Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports) NBA family like the one that occurred at Madison Square Garden this past week,” Silver said in a statement. “In an effort to find a path forward, New York Knicks owner Jim Dolan, Charles Oakley, and I met today at
Michael Jordan in attendance during the first half in the championship game of the 2016 NCAA Men’s Final Four between the North Carolina Tar Heels and Villanova Wildcats at NRG Stadium. (Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports)
the league office, along with Michael Jordan, who participated by phone. “Both Mr. Oakley and Mr. Dolan were apologetic about the incident and subsequent comments, and their negative impact on the Knicks organisation and the NBA. “Mr. Dolan expressed his hope that Mr. Oakley would return to MSG as his guest in the near future. I appreciate the efforts of Mr. Dolan, Mr. Oakley and Mr. Jordan to work toward a resolution of this matter.” Charlotte Hornets owner and Hall of Famer Jordan was a team mate of 53-yearold Oakley at Chicago and Washington and the two are close friends.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 15, 2017
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Taking Chances: Arinze continues to excel in athletics and academics By Edison Jefford Guyanese sprint prodigy, Arinze Chance, who is one of the finest products to have emerged from the National Schools Championship, continues to take his chances in Trinidad and Tobago where he is excelling in both athletics and academics. The 22-year-old former representative of North Georgetown, student at Bishops’ High and Queen’s College, and athlete at the Police Progressive Youth Club, is now enrolled on a partial athletics scholarship at the University of Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o (UTT). The naturally endowed Chance just recently lowered his personal best (PB) time in the 300-metre at a national Development
Meet that was held at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Trinidad. The 33.7 time suggests Chance’s continued improvement. “It’s an improvement that I’m happy about. He has been training really hard; in the morning and a f t e r n o o n s , ” C h a n c e ’s father, Phillip Chance told Kaieteur Sport yesterday. The proud father said that some systematic changes have helped his son. He indicated that Arinze has an entire team of professionals at UTT, who work to get him to the desired level of competition. Those include nutritionists, physiotherapists and coaches, who work with the University-based athlete consistently. “He has improved since moving to Trinidad to attend
University. I think the training over there is lacking here to some extent because; for instance, his nutrition is different, and that is something I never saw them (Coaches) paying attention to here,” Chance said. Arinze was second for UTT Fast Track in the 300m behind Alpha Athletic Club’s, Tacuma Sterling who ran 33.36. The performance was an impressive season-opening mark for Chance because his previous PB was 34.65, which he achieved last year. The time has been listed as a new school record. The time adds to his 400m record of 46.81s at the same institution. In addition to his continued athletics improvement, Arinze is also doing well in school where he is majoring in Petroleum
Arinze Chance Engineering. “He is very disciplined and I think that is paying off for him,” Phillip said. Asked if Arinze plans to return
home after completing his programme, Phillip answered in the affirmative, more so with Guyana’s emerging oil and gas sector
as an incentive. Arinze will compete tomorrow at the Secondary and Tertiary Relay Carnival in Trinidad, which is a selection precursor for the Penn Relays in April. Chance will also compete at the University Games in Taiwan and University of the West Indies Games in Barbados in the first half of 2017, which are expected to provide further evidence of his improvement. Once he continues to get better, Chance could be among the candidates to support for the 2020 Olympic Games in Osaka, Japan. Arinze’s primary events are the 200m and 400m races with the outstanding student-athlete Olympic chance more existent in the 400m.
Mayweather says fight vs. McGregor is ‘very, very close’ (The Sports Xchange) Floyd Mayweather Jr. believes a superfight between him and MMA star Conor McGregor will happen sooner rather than later. Mayweather told ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith at Saturday’s NBA game between the Golden State Warriors and Oklahoma City Thunder that the two fighters are on the verge of an agreement. “We’re getting very, very close,” the 39-year-old Mayweather told Smith. While Mayweather is optimistic, he said that nothing is guaranteed until contracts are signed. No
Floyd Mayweather during the press conference. (Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge) timetable was given for the prospective boxing match. “Real people are having real discussions,” Nevada State
Local weightlifters gear up for competitive trials for international meet The nation’s top weightlifters will vie for a spot on the team to represent Guyana at the Manuel Suarez Weightlifting Tournament scheduled for March 20 - 26, 2017 in Havana, Cuba when the Guyana Amateur Weightlifting Association (GAWA) stage a national trial on Sunday February 19 at the Michael Parris Fitness Centre, National Park starting at 10:00hrs. Already, lifters from several gyms across the country have conformed to the registration requirements and administrators are optimistic of a highly competitive meet. The Manuel Suarez Tournament is high calibre event within the Pan-American Circuit that also encompasses an educational forum where the latest sport science research and coaching techniques are divulged to all participants.
Athletic Commission chairman Anthony Marnell told ESPN on Tuesday, “I’m also telling you my opinion as the NSAC chairman that a lot of things need to get done in order to see something like this come together because there are so many parties that want to get their hands on the pot. “Maybe it will get figured out, but it’s going to be hard when everyone is declaring they want $100 million.” Mayweather, a former fivedivision boxing champion who retired undefeated at 49-0 in 2015, said in January that he believed the fight could happen after McGregor said he was determined to fight him. The 28-year-old McGregor, the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, obtained his California
Conor McGregor (blue gloves) celebrates after defeating Eddie Alvarez (red gloves) in their lightweight title bout during UFC 205 at Madison Square Garden. (Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports) boxing licence in December. UFC president Dana White offered McGregor and Mayweather a sum of $25 million each in January for a fight. Mayweather scoffed at the offer, saying White was “an (expletive) comedian.” McGregor last competed at UFC 205 last November when he beat Eddie Alvarez for the lightweight title to become the first twodivision champion in UFC history. He also held the featherweight title after knocking out Jose Aldo at U F C 2 0 0 l a s t J u l y. McGregor was stripped of
the featherweight belt in November to focus on the lightweight division. McGregor, 21-3 in MMA competition, is not scheduled to compete in a
UFC event until May to avoid putting unnecessary stress on partner Dee Devlin, who is pregnant with the couple’s first child.
t r o Sp Laureus Awards 2017: Bolt, Pride will play Biles, Rosberg, Atherton and tough cricket, Leicester among winners
warns Carter
Usain Bolt takes centre stage with the camera as a host of sporting stars jostle for position around him, among them Simone Biles, Michael Phelps, Nico Rosberg, Beatrice Vio, Claudio Ranieri, Wes Morgan and members of the Olympic Refugee Team. Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco are pictured on the left.
In-form Barbados Pride batsman Jonathan Carter.
Mayweather says Group stage conclusion and quarter-finals on this evening fight vs. McGregor is ‘very, very close’ West Demerara /East Bank Demerara Guinness Competition
Berbice Volleyball Association holds one day extravaganza for schools on Friday
Part of the action in this year’s West Demerara/East Bank Demerara Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition.
Taking Chances: Arinze continues to excel in athletics and academics
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