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Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
In pursuit of honest opinions In our multi-faceted society, it is often critical for important stakeholders to evaluate the weight of public opinion before embarking on ventures that deeply affect people’s lives. It is especially important to probe public opinion on controversial issues, not only to discover what the majority of Guyanese think about these issues, but also why they hold such views and what they want to see happen. Life in Guyana is replete with examples of this necessity. For instance, as insignificant as it may seem to the casual observer, it would have been particularly interesting for a comprehensive survey to have been done in relation to the prorogation of parliament, and the reasons given for the action. It would have been even more absorbing to hear the opinion of the everyday man and woman with respect to the expression of no-confidence that had dangled over the incumbent administration. Unfortunately, almost all attempts by the media and other responsible and qualified groups to venture into the realm of assessing public opinion in Guyana would be quickly deemed far from “scientific” and described as producing highly questionable results. Of course those who are fiercely protective of their “brand” would have rubbished any negatives. It is pertinent to note that many of the viewpoints used by those same naysayers, and purporting to represent the majority opinion of the Guyanese public, are entertaining but meaningless, because they were obtained under seriously flawed, unscientific circumstances. For instance, it is quite evident that many persons erroneously regard the opinion of the majority of letter writers to newspapers, or the viewpoint of the majority of those who call in on various TV talk shows, as representing the opinion of the public at large. The reality is that many opinions that are widely publicised in Guyana are specifically expressed to advance particular causes. Clearly, certain special interest groups try to give the impression that the views are the views of the entire country. Such groups, which include some media houses, are well aware that public opinion can be manipulated by weighting to produce some desired result. That is why Guyana experiences the phenomenon of different sources presenting widely divergent viewpoints on various issues as though these represent the prevailing public view of those issues. In this flawed process, many persons overlook the fact that public opinion is not static. The people’s views about an issue develop and change over time, according to many variables, like the amount of information available or the emergence of societal pressures. Sometimes public opinion is an evolutionary process, moving from poorly informed reactions to more carefully considered conclusions. Recognition that public opinion can progress in stages is a key element of properly assessing same. Changeable opinion is sometimes mistaken for settled public judgment, with unfortunate consequences. The initial public view of an issue is often affected by strong, emotionally-laden feelings and opinions, which can be unstable and changeable. The raw and unformed quality of public opinion, at this stage, may be vastly different at a later stage, when the populace is better informed and have a better understanding of an issue or problem. In light of this, it stands to reason that when the resolution of important public issues hinges on the majority viewpoint of the public, there should be extreme caution regarding the results of consultations or any other assessment of the public’s opinion. It is certainly important to have access to reliable, stable and accurate assessments of the opinions held by the majority of the Guyanese people on various important issues, which accurately reflect their values, priorities, and beliefs. If Guyana could acquire the means of accurately measuring the weight of public opinion, this would go a long way to help bring about the fair and reasonable resolution of difficult issues. In a general sense, could we say that elections reflect our honest opinions of what Guyana deserves?
Friday February 20, 2015
Letters... Where your views make the news
True to form, the AG displays his hypocritical nature DEAR EDITOR, The Attorney General, Mr. Anil Nandalall, surely has very thick skin as my grandfather used to say, when describing someone that has a tendency to withstand or ignore criticism and twist issues to suit his argument. I read the detailed statement, in Demerara Waves and the Guyana Chronicle edition of 17th February 2015, written by the Attorney General, captioned “Gov’t acted in compliance with constitutional provisions and CJ ruling”, where the Attorney General is quoted as saying “that ought to have brought an end to the matter since that application was all that was before the court. Unfortunately, the Chief Justice chose to express his views on a number of other matters”. This statement related to the illegal spending matter that was brought by the opposition against the AG and the Speaker of the National Assembly. He goes on to state “the pronouncement of the Chief Justice on these matters are, therefore, obiter dicta and are not binding aspects of the ruling. In short, they do not constitute the “ratio decidendi” or the reasons for the ruling”. This ruling certainly seems very much similar to the Angela Haniff vs Ramsay Ali et al matter in
2011, which resulted in the Government using the said Obiter dicta comments to carry out the most relentless and vindictive of agendas against the Guyana Cricket Board, commencing with disbanding the GCB, whose members had to eventually move to the CCJ for redress after the local courts threw out all of their submissions. In that case, the CJ basically dismissed the application by Angela Haniff on the grounds that it was misconceived and she had no “locus standi” to bring the matter. The Hon. Chief Justice went on to make some pronouncements “Obiter Dicta” or ‘by the way’ comments that the Attorney General and his Sports Minister Frank Anthony interpreted and touted
publicly to all and sundry as an Order of Court. WHAT HYPOCRICY? Both Ministers sought to mislead the entire public in their quest to hijack the GCB with the following very deliberate actions and consequences: (1) Disband the GCB and establish a government IMC- Totally illegal action. (2) Seize the assets of the GCB.-Legalized highway robbery! (3) Put padlocks on their office doors- Promoting unemployment of the Board staff and preventing innocent cricketers from plying their trade. (4) Search the homes of their Executives- Widespread f e a r, h a r a s s m e n t a n d humiliation of innocent citizens utilizing state resources. (5) Prosecute members
of their Executive CommitteeWhimsical persecution and trial by vengeance. (6) Enact flawed legislation to control cricketLoss of International cricket to our shores. A p p a r e n t l y, “ o b i t e r dicta” or “pronouncements” or “utterances”, as the Attorney General describes it, when made by the CJ, can be interpreted conveniently to the advantage of Mr. Nandalall and his friends. I do hope the Attorney General is not suggesting that the Honourable Chief Justice, Ian Chang, talks too much. On another note, I do wish the Joint Opposition good luck so that Sir Fenton Ramsahoye’s wishes can be realised, or should a private citizen now institute the criminal charge? Anand Dyal
Harry Gill now speaks from the other side of his mouth DEAR EDITOR, Mr. Harry Gill seems to have nothing to do and loads of time to do it. His new hobby is being a mouthpiece for the PPP. I do recall, some time ago, he was writing against the Government. Now, he speaks from the other side of his mouth. This gentleman, who pontificates about the developments which have come about since the PPP has been in Government, must impress me by itemizing the new projects which have come on stream. Please do not include repairs to projects which were there
when his Government took over. And, please do not list those purposely erected white elephants which were constructed so that monies could be siphoned off. Come clean, Mr. Gill. Now, on to Mr. Gill’s proclamation that the former president served the country well and that we should be proud of it. NO, Mr. Gill, speak for yourself. You may have personal reasons to be proud. Incidentally, the majority of Guyanese were not so well favoured so that we can be proud. We have (Continued on page 07
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
A credible Pro-Democracy Alliance was born on Valentine’s Day DEAR EDITOR, The concerns, frustrations and anxiety expressed by the people in this election year reflect the failure of the Government to develop programs to ease their fears, safeguard their security, create jobs for the youths and improve the living standards of the poor. The problems faced by the people, especially the poor and the working class, must be laid squarely at the feet of the PPP government, which has been in power for
the past 23 years. This disastrous state of affairs speaks volumes to the corrupt practices and failure of the PPP regime to grasp the magnitude of the decline in the country. Our mother city, Georgetown, and several other cities and communities throughout the country are left to rot while those in the regime basked in their ocean front mansions in Pradoville and at Leonora. It is obvious that the poor decisions made by the PPP
The public must support the demands of the UG students and staff DEAR EDITOR, This is a call and a plea for parents, students, educators across the country, general and civic society to show support and rally behind the students, staff and faculty of UG who are represented by Mr. J. Griffith (University of Guyana Student Society - UGSS), Mr. Bruce Haynes (UG staff University of Guyana Workers Union - UGWU) and Dr. M. Ifill, (University of Guyana Senior Staff Association, UGSSA), respectively. It is urgent that we show that we can demand much needed changes in a universal commodity such as education that will benefit not only the current students, but future generations of Guyanese. We must make this demand not only of the ruling PPP but also of the opposition parties of APNUAFC which are represented on the politically imposed dictatorial UG council. The ruling political class’s philosophy after Independence has resulted in an on-going deconstruction of our society. Education, one of our most valued assets, has been depreciated beyond recognition. We have to take a stand and stop this devaluation of ourselves and our communities. We have traditionally valued education deeply, especially university education, regardless of political stripes, cultural heritage or class. Education was our chance of
being a great equalizer. Allowing society and educational standards to deteriorate beyond any recognition is detrimental to both UG and all of Guyana’s future. As “UG goes so does the rest of Guyana” is here. We are at this crossroads. Parents of UG students, parents in general, civic society, the public can help in supporting the demands of UG’s student, staff and faculty. The much needed changes should be implemented now. Empty promises have been made before and nothing done, in fact the mutilation accelerated Let us together make this demand for better education for current and future generations. Anand Daljeet Seelochan Beharry
have resulted in significant loss in jobs, revenue and the underdevelopment of the country. But the concerns expressed by the people are merely the tip of the iceberg. It is no doubt that the PPP has turned Guyana into a pariah state. As if the illegal spending of $4.5 billion of the taxpayers’ money by the Minister of Finance was not enough; we now have scandals such as the AG vulgar and abusive tape conversation; the prorogue of Parliament by the do-nothing president; the secret use of US$226 million from the foreign reserve funds; the transferring of $3 billion from GGMC to the Housing Authority and a Minister of Education who lacks the ability and requisite skills to resolve month old strike by workers and students at UG, the country’s only tertiary educational institution. The gross negligence, mismanagement and incompetency of the Jagdeo/ Ramotar regime is in full display. Although the price of oil has reduced by more than 55 percent on the world market from US$109.00 per barrel in October 2014 to US$50.00 today, yet the president has the gall to announce that GPL electrical rates will be lowered by a meager 10 percent in March, six months after.
And he made the announcement as if he is doing the Guyanese people a big favor. We want the President and his cabal to know that most of the countries in the Caribbean have already reduced the price of oil four times since last October. With one scandal after another, almost everyone knows that the PPP ship is sinking fast while it seems the combined opposition would be sailing to victory in the next general election. The national support whipped-up since formation of the Alliance has raised the hopes of the people that change is on the way. The buoyancy felt by the people should signal to the ruling party that it is time to shuffle out. But the tactless letters written by some in the PPP show that they are not interested in putting the interests of the people and the country first, but their own. They prefer to see the raping of the treasury, the sucking of the country dry to its bones and the poor get poorer and the rich become richer at the expense of the poor continue. Since it had become clear to the
opposition that the PPP regime did not have, and saw no need to have any significant policies to develop the economy and was content to operate and govern on the basis of protecting their financial interests and those of their relatives and friends, they knew that they had to do something to stop them from further bleeding Guyana to death. So on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2014, the combined opposition formed a credible coalition which has the opportunity to create history by removing the PPP from office and bring positive change to Guyana and to the fortunes of the people. David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo must be valued for their commitment, experiences and institutional knowledge, as well as their wisdom which is their strongest brand of identification. And with support from Carl Greenidge, Khemraj Ramjattan, Joe Harmon and Nigel Hughes to name a few, symbolized a break with a past that needs to be broken, and illuminates the way forward for all Guyanese. This has not only
rejuvenated the spirit of a broken nation, but also ushered in an end to racial and bipartisan politics that have plagued the country for more than 60 years. It has restored hope and confidence in the people and assured them that they will no longer languish in poverty while those in the PPP and their rich friends dabble in their wealth. The AFC/APNU ProDemocracy Alliance is credible and timely for Guyana and we are confident that its courageous leaders will motivate and inspire the people and gain their trust which is the grace of leadership. Asquith Rose, Chandra Deolall, Dr. Merle Spencer-Marks
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Kaieteur News
Friday February 20, 2015
Neesa Gopaul murder trial…
Defence questions credibility of DNA results By Rehanna Ramsay An expert forensic analyst has confirmed that a DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) test conducted on samples of the remains, which were provided by a member of the Guyana Police Force belonged to murdered 16– year–old Queen’s College student, Neesa Gopaul. On October 2, 2010, the headless remains of a female were discovered at a location along the Soesdkye/Linden Highway, tucked inside a suitcase that was partially submerged in a creek. A rope was wrapped around the suitcase and dumbbells were attached at one end, apparently in an effort to keep the body under water. A passport and other documents bearing the name Neesa Lalita Gopaul were also found along with the remains. The teen went missing from her home just days before the incident. Following the discovery the teen’s mother, Bibi Shareema Gopaul and Jarvis Barry Small were arrested and charged for the murder. The two persons are on trial before Justice Navindra Singh and a mixed twelve member jury at the High Court in Georgetown. Testifying via an audio/ visual link (Skype) from the Office of the Guyana Consulate in Barbados yesterday, Lorraine Alleyne, a Forensic Scientist in DNA, attached to the Forensic Sciences Centre (FSC) on the island, explained that the samples of human organs
Murdered: Neesa Gopaul taken from a female corpse purportedly belonging to the murdered tee n w e r e a 99.98% match to samples from Buccal swabs, which were identified to be that of m urder accused, Bibi Gopaul. As such, the forensic scientist concluded that the test results proved that the remains belonged to a female child of Bibi Gopaul. Before being deemed an expert in her field by the court, Alleyne outlined her qualifications and experience in the field of forensic sciences and medical technology. The witness detailed to the court that she is the holder of a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology from the Caribbean Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists at University of the West Indies, (UWI) in Jamaica; a Honours Degree in Biology from UWI and Masters Of Science Degree in Forensic Sciences from the King’s College University of London.
Ms Alleyne also told the court that she has more than 20 years of experience in her field of work; she has testified in more than 100 criminal matters in various courts across the region. Alleyne is currently the Deputy Director of the Barbados FSC. As part of her duties, the witness outlined that she is responsible for receiving and analyzing bodily fluids which includes blood and semen - to carry out DNA profiling and also conduct DNA testing to determine family relations such as between a father and his child/children and a mother and her child/children or in cases of identifying bodies following a mass disaster. The forensic analyst also noted that part of her duty is to collect DNA evidence which has to be compared to another sample of Buccal swab or tissue taken from the victim, accused, mother, father and other persons, depending on the scenario. The witness told the court that on November 5, 2010, she received samples of human organs labelled to be that of Neesa Gopaul and samples of Buccal swabs labeled to be that of Mohamed Kayum, Miriam Gopaul and Bibi Gopaul, which were later tested and analysed. She said that following the analysis she prepared a DNA certificate and analysis with her results and findings. The witness noted that she made observations and compiled it as part of the certificate to which she placed her signature. Ms Alleyne said that her findings were previously presented and tendered as a part of the evidence in a preliminary hearing at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court in February of 2011. The witness was thereafter shown a document which she recognized to be the DNA certificate and analysis which she had
prepared in the matter. Alleyne was subsequently permitted to read the report, in which she noted that tests conducted on pieces of lung, liver and rib labeled Neesa Gopaul were compared to samples of Buccal swabs labelled Bibi Gopaul, and confirmed that the body components were most likely taken from a female child of Bibi G opaul based on a probability of 99.98 percent of DNA bands observed in tissue samples which originated from the two persons. As she read the report to a packed courtroom, the number two accused Bibi Gopaul wept uncontrollably; she was seen using an inhaler to assist her in breathing. Small, her former lover, sat quietly in the dock. The analyst went on to note that there was no contamination of the samples during the process of testing. Asked by Prosecutor Diana Kaulesar about the probability of receiving a 100% result between the samples which were compared, the witness explained that 100% would only be possible in cases when the results did not match or cases where another method was used. She noted that method would usually take years to complete. Under cross examination by Defence Counsel Glenn Hanoman, the witness explained that she only received the samples for testing to determine the identity of the persons from whom the samples were extracted. The witness also accepted that there was no way in which she could have known that the samples were taken from the deceased (Neesa Gopaul) and the coaccused, Bibi Gopaul. The Defence Attorney also suggested to the witness that the laboratory in which the tests were conducted was
Bibi Shareema Gopaul
Jarvis Barry Small
shut down because it had been contaminated. In response, Alleyne noted that the laboratory was shut down briefly between 2009 and 2010 because of a mould infestation. The witness also accepted that in 2010 the laboratory was not accredited by International Organization for Standardization (ISO) which is an international regulatory body responsible for setting standards and guidelines for various professional environments; the ISO would also authenticate certification of laboratory equipment. The witness thereafter acknowledged that the FSC in Barbados is still to be accredited by the ISO. She also accepted that the reliability of results and the integrity of samples is of paramount importance in delivering quality results in DNA testing. The witness also accepted that Detective Steven Greaves, the policeman from whom she received the samples did not use the packaging recommended for the storage of the samples set for DNA analysis. In response to a question by the lawyer, Alleyne agreed that DNA can be transferred from one person to another by “mere touching.” Asked whether it was possible that Bibi Gopaul‘s DNA could have been
transferred on to the body of the deceased at some point of handling. The witness responded that this “might be possible but not probable.” Alleyne subsequently noted that it is recommended that protective gear be used in cases of the aforementioned scenario. In response to questions posed by Attorney-at-law, George Thomas, the witness also accepted that bacteria which can be found in mud or muddy water can destroy DNA. She however, noted that in such cases, particles set for DNA testing must be first cleansed. Prosecutor Kaulesar thereafter asked the witness to clarify statements she previously made under cross examination by the defence. As such, Alleyne clarified that the laboratory had already been cleaned and reopened in January 2010. She also noted that Barbados FSC is in the process of receiving its accreditation from the ISO. Alleyne said that before receiving certification from the ISO the organisation must first submit a list of protocols being observed. “We are in the process of doc u m e n t i n g a l l o u r protocols,” she added. The witness also maintained that protocols were observed to ensure the integrity of the DNA tests and results.
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
Govt’s must guard against fostering violent extremism - US Pres. Obama “When governments oppress their people, deny human rights, stifle dissent, marginalize ethnic and religious groups, or favour certain religious groups over others, it sows the seeds of extremism and violence.” This concept was outlined in the closing remarks of President Barack Obama at the Summit on Countering Violent Extremism yesterday. Obama in his stirring speech, which is very relevant to countries across the globe, including Guyana, pointed out that in much the same way that economic grievances are addressed; there is also need for political grievances that are exploited by terrorists to be addressed. He went on to underscore that such doings can also make those communities “more vulnerable to recruitment,” even as he highlighted the claim of terrorist groups that change can only come through violence. President Obama therefore surmised that “…if peaceful change is impossible, that plays into extremist propaganda.” Moreover, he noted that the essential ingredient to real and lasting stability and progress is not less democracy but rather more democracy. He underscored that “It’s institutions that uphold the rule of law and apply justice equally. It’s security forces and police that respect human rights and treat people with dignity. It’s free speech and strong civil societies where people can organize and assemble and advocate for peaceful change. It’s freedom of religion where all people can practice their faith without fear and intimidation.” All of the foregoing, the President intimated, translates to helping to countering violent extremism. And according to him too the best partners in all these efforts, the best people to help protect individuals from falling victim to extremist ideologies are their own communities and family members. ”We have to be honest with ourselves. Terrorist groups like al Qaeda and ISIL deliberately target their propaganda in the
President Barack Obama speaks at the Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Summit, at the State Department in Washington yesterday. hopes of reaching and brainwashing young Muslims, especially those who may be disillusioned or wrestling with their identity. That’s the truth. The highquality videos, the online magazines, the use of social media, terrorist Twitter accounts — it’s all designed to target today’s young people online, in cyberspace,” asserted President Obama. He explained that it is simply because terrorists are a threat; first and foremost, to the communities that they target it therefore means that communities have to take the lead in protecting themselves. ”And that is true here in America, as it’s true anywhere else. When someone starts getting radicalized, family and friends are often the first to see that something has changed in their personality. Teachers may notice a student becoming withdrawn or struggling with his or her identity, and if they intervene at that moment and offer support, that may make a difference,” the President keenly outlined. He intimated too that faith leaders are among the key members of society who may notice that someone is beginning to espouse violent interpretations of religion, and that’s a moment for possible intervention that allows them to think about their actions and reflect on the meaning of their faith in a way that’s more consistent with peace and justice. “Families and friends, coworkers, neighbors, faith leaders — they want to reach out; they want to help save their loved ones and friends, and prevent them from taking a wrong turn,” observed the President.
He however noted that communities don’t always know the signs to look for, or have the tools to intervene, or know what works best. And that’s where government can play a role — if government is serving as a trusted partner, added the US President. “And that’s where we also need to be honest. I know some Muslim Americans have concerns about working with government, particularly law enforcement. And their reluctance is rooted in the objection to certain practices where Muslim Americans feel they’ve been unfairly targeted.” “So, in our work, we have to make sure that abuses stop, are not repeated, that we do not stigmatize entire communities. Nobody should be profiled or put under a cloud of suspicion simply because of their faith,” said President Obama. He went on to emphasize that engagement with communities can’t be a cover for surveillance adding that “We can’t “securitize” our relationship with Muslim Americans…dealing with them solely through the prism of law enforcement. Because when we do, that only reinforces suspicions, makes it harder for us to build the trust that we need to work together.” (Extracted from President Obama’s closing remarks at summit on countering violent extremism)
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Letters... Where your views make the news
A message from the grave for the Police Force - Be careful whom you hire DEAR EDITOR, The recent execution style slaying of ex-policeman Beepat Taijram, while it is a dastardly and savage act, besides being viewed as a homicide should also be a wake-up reflective call to the law enforcement agencies in Guyana. The deceased was formerly one of their own, prior to his dismissal from the Force. The former employee of the Force, a seeming representative of law and order, had a past so sordid that he could effortlessly become a poster child for the Mob. To further bear out my point that the security and law agencies in Guyana need to look closer at not only their hiring policies but also the integrity of those whom they hire. For far too often the Guyanese populace and others throughout the diaspora is faced with report of rogues in the ranks and also rogue members of the Defence Force. It is evident that the cancer of corruption that was slowly invading the fabric in Guyana has now fully metastasized. Do I think that there are too many men and women wearing a badge for the wrong reason? Yes!. Potential and fully fledged crooks, abusers, gangsters, etc. who have managed to get into the Police Force? Of course I do. As a native Guyanese I find it really troubling to read of sworn law enforcement men and women clearly violating their oath, the law, and civil liberties of the people. Recently, as reported in the news, two police officers attached to the Kurupung Police Station have been “departmentally charged” after it was alleged that they took a bribe to facilitate the release of twelve men. Another blow dealt directly to the guts of the Police Selection and Hiring Committee. In yet another recent case, the Child care Protection Agency is
investigating a report of statutory rape by a member of the Police Force Tactical Unit (TSU). While we are in the sexual zone, let us not forget that the very Head of the Police Force, the country’s Top Cop, embattled Henry Greene, was forced to resign, after months of speculation regarding rape allegations made by a 34 year old mother of two. Then again, the case, where it was alleged that two cops doused a teen’s genitals with methylated spirits and then set him afire. The two accused cops were recently promoted (despite public protestations) in a seemingly symbolic act of appreciation for services well rendered. It is apparent that the time has arrived, especially in view of a forthcoming election where terms such as change, range and estrange will be tossed around like ingredients in a salad bowl, for the Police Force to carefully scrutinize their hiring and admissibility policies. It is blatantly apparent that a change is needed;
rigorous integrity tests must be an intricate part of the process, not only for the applicants but also the interviewing agents. These are legitimate and necessary safeguards for maintaining integrity in an organization. At the risk of being viewed as one who portends bad news, the entire selection and admission process may need to be disbanded and then up-handed. After all, there is nothing to be proud about. Protect and Serve is clearly a farce. Surely, there are other good cops on the Force, but by virtue of inclusion, they are viewed as being of similar ilk as their colleagues. Some degree of truth may still lie in the adage “if you are a part you may soon learn the art”. As a nation, we cannot stand by merely seeking hope and refuge in the words of the Sam Cooke’s song- “A change is gonna come”. We must bring the change and now. While dead men tell no tales their messages must be listened to. Yvonne Sam
Harry Gill now speaks... From page 4 been mentally and financially abased. We are still standing by the good Graces of the Almighty. Could Mr. Gill explain who, other than the PPP officials themselves, could get the results of the ‘jumbie’ poll published in the Guyana Chronicle? If the Opposition forces cannot even get air time on the Nationally owned NCN, would they be allowed to use the Chronicle? I sympathise with the sacrificial lamb. Accept what is evident, the PPP party is imploding
and Mr. Gill is positioning himself as a lifebuoy. Some advice for the gentleman who seems to be looking for a place in the sun your corrupt Government has already stolen and sold the UV Rays. Try hanging your mouth someplace else. And, in future, do not try to dictate who and what we should be proud of. We have managed to salvage enough intelligence to decide on that and, it is by no means your sweetheart Government. Punti Peraud
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Kaieteur News
Friday February 20, 2015
Preliminary List of Electors available to public - GECOM
The GECOM homepage
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), has announced that the Preliminary List of Electors (PLE) is now available to the general public. According to a press release issued by the commission the PLE is available in Adobe format and is divided into the 10 electoral Districts of the country. GECOM has assured that the PLE available on its website www.gecom.org.gy is user-friendly and allows persons the opportunity to search for their names, and download the entire list. Persons desirous of checking the list can
simply log on to the website and click on the link ‘Preliminary List of Electors – 2015’. The list will open displaying the 10 electoral districts. By clicking on the district you reside in, you can then proceed to search for your information; either by entering your full name or national identification number. The website will be updated on a regular basis to ensure that the information is current, precise and relevant. The Preliminary Voters List would be replaced by the Revised List of Electors once the claims and Objection Period is completed
Top cop: We believe we see the light at the end of the tunnel Trinidad Express - “We believe we will see the light at the end of the tunnel, but you will in fact get the benefit of an expression of that light by the Deputy Commissioner of Police as soon as he gets the directive from the Director of Public Prosecutions”. This was the response from acting Police Commissioner Stephen Williams Wednesday as members of the media sought an update on the investigation into the assassination of senior counsel Dana Seetahal. Seetahal was shot dead around 12.05 a.m. on May 4 last year while driving to her One Woodbrook Place home. As the anniversary of Seetahal’s death draws closer, members of the media asked Williams for an update into the investigation during a post-Carnival press conference Wednesday. Williams said there is a “light at the end of the tunnel”. However, he said he could not say exactly when the investigation would be completed. “In all fairness, you know I cannot put it into a time frame, what I will give you is the assurance that the investigation is not a cold investigation,” Williams said. “The investigation is actively being pursued and it requires intensive and
Stephen Williams
extensive work to be done and that is what has been done and you will get the results in due course. “The investigation is one which requires intensive work and extensive work and in the context of that intensive and extensive work that we are looking forward to the completion of that investigation to give the kind of results that the society is
anticipating,” Williams said. Assistant Commissioner Wayne Dick, under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Glenn Hackett, has been appointed to spearhead enquiries into Seetahal’s murder. And while it has been noted in previous interviews that the police had suspects “in mind”, no one has been charged as yet.
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
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THE WHOLE IS LESS THAN THE SUM OF ITS PARTS Not many people took the Alliance for Change (AFC) seriously when it indicated that it was in favour of an election coalition with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). Not many people felt such an arrangement would materialize. The reason why people felt that an opposition coalition would not materialize was because the AFC had put on the table a non-negotiable position: that it had to lead such a grouping. No one expected APNU to give in to such demands. But the AFC had a compelling case. It was willing to make a concession on its longstanding position that it would never join with either the PPPC or the PNCR. And make no mistake about it, APNU is the PNCR. The AFC was willing to compromise on this principle of not aligning with any of the two big parties. It was willing to make this compromise as a tactical manoeuvre, so that it could vote the PPP out of
office. In other words, it was willing to trade a core principle of its party in exchange for the opportunity to kick the PPP out of office. The AFC’s proposal to enter into a pre-election coalition was driven by the desire to see the back of the PPPC. It was never about anything other than gaining political power. The proposal was not about the principle of creating a new political culture. It was a quest for power. From this perspective of gaining power, the proposal had logic and merit. The Constitution of Guyana provides that the party with the most votes, even if it is one vote, wins the presidency. The AFC felt that in order for the PPP to be defeated, inroads had to be made into the PPPC support base. It felt only with an AFC-led coalition it would be able to make such inroads. In 2006 and 2011 there were suggestions that the AFC should join with other
opposition parties. The AFC did not go this route, because it felt that such a race would favour the PPP which would use its propaganda machinery to feed on ethnic insecurity amongst the PPP’s supporters. Thus the AFC was not interested in coalitions. This was also in keeping with the core principle that the party was a third force and would not join with either the PPP or the PNCR. The AFC did very well in both of these elections. But after its annual conference in 2014, it indicated that it was open to a coalition with APNU, but only if it led that coalition. The thinking here was that such a coalition would only be able to win if it made inroads into the PPP’s support base. And the only way it could make these inroads was if the coalition was led by the AFC, since an AFC-led coalition would help to reduce ethnic insecurity amongst the PPP supporters, who would feel more comfortable under an
AFC-led government than an APNU-led one. This was the logic and the merit of an AFCled coalition. The supporters of the AFC thus understood clearly that its party was entering into talks with APNU on the basis of a non-negotiable position: that the AFC would hold the presidency. It therefore must have come as a terrible shock to learn that the AFC ceded this position and has now entered into a coalition without the presidency, and thus without the vital ingredient needed to make inroads into the PPP’s support base. No one expected APNU to give up the leadership of the coalition. No one expected APNU to be in favour of Moses Nagamootoo as a presidential candidate for an opposition coalition. APNU opposed Nagamootoo for the position of Speaker of the National Assembly. It said he was too steeped in the PPP for the coalition’s comfort. So why then would it have
accepted him as a presidential candidate for a new coalition? No one therefore expected that APNU would cede the leadership of the coalition to Nagamootoo. But far more unexpected was the decision by the AFC to go against its nonnegotiable stance that it would only enter into an alliance with APNU if it got the presidency. The AFC has betrayed its supporters by doing so. The AFC forgot the logic it applied in the run-up to the 2006 and 2011 elections. That logic was that the value of any election coalition was NOT
equal to the sum of its parts. If you add APNU’s support and you add AFC’s support, it will NOT be equal to the total support that the coalition will garner. A large number of AFC supporters will not vote for any coalition involving APNU. Neither will those disgruntled PPP supporters which the AFC was hoping to attract.
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Kaieteur News
Friday February 20, 2015
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
The governance of this country is a mystery On Tuesday afternoon, Kaieteur News sports journalist Rawle Welch asked for a ride to the passport office. When we walked inside the building, I saw an unbelievable sight. Literally hundreds of people were waiting. They were waiting to be served for different reasons (a line to pay, a line to deposit documents, a line to be photographed). I saw that very scene fifteen years ago, and fifteen years ago wrote about it in my column in this very newspaper. It remains a mystery why after fifteen years, passport applicants go through the same torturous labyrinth. How do you explain such an unchanging situation? Could be that there is no explanation; it is a mystery. I joined the line inside the GRA to have my vehicular road licence. Before I proceed, let me say that I find the continuation of the required
road licence a most sickening anachronism. A driver needs to have a certificate that the car is roadworthy. A driver needs to have insurance. A driver needs to have car registration. A driver needs to have a certified licence to drive. These are all required documents that have a commonsensical foundation. The police need to know if you are a certified driver; the police need to see if your car is fit to be on the road; what purpose does the vehicular road licence serve? There is none. It came with colonial times when you had to have radio licence, bicycle licence etc. Why does this country retain this ancient stupidity? I remember as a small boy when my father saw the radio licence man coming, he would hide one of the two radios in the bedroom. Most people did that so they only paid for one document. That era is dead and gone. But part of it remains with the requirement
of something named the vehicular road licence. There is no question about it; this country is an ancient puzzle. Back to the main issue. I stood in a long line and got my road licence. When I was leaving, I asked the internal uniformed security what those hundreds of persons were doing sitting under a large tent on the eastern lawn of the GRA. He said that they were waiting to be served for renewal of driver’s licences. I almost fainted, not at what I saw, but the prospects of me having to go through that thorny pathway in a few months’ time. The mystery is ubiquitous, because as with the passport office, I saw that identical scene fifteen years ago. Why are we not progressing? Why are the same social insanities still existing fifteen years after they were born? Is there an explanation? I live on the Railway Embankment next to that large cemetery that recently pronounced on the prorogation of Parliament as being legal – the CARICOM Secretariat. I would look out of my window and see this
fancy, expensive GPL vehicle lift workmen into the skies so they can reach the lamps on the posts. They replace the bulbs that are dead. We would have lights on the Railway Embankment where I live for two months, then the bulbs die and the fancy vehicle comes again and the cycle goes on. Every two months the lamps die and GPL replaces them. The obvious question is ‘Why?’ What is the problem? Is it the actual mechanism that contains the bulbs or is it that the bulbs that GPL buy are so cheap that they last only two months? Since 2007 I have been living here and I see this masquerade six times each year. Surely that is a mystery. I attended the
funeral of my wife’s cousin at the CIOG on Woolford Avenue last Wednesday. A gentleman came and sat next to me and told me he is a Wortmanville boy, the Georgetown ward I was born into. For the rest of the funeral service we chatted (kind of disrespectful; I know). As usual, the conversation turned to UG. I mentioned to him a story about UG and I saw the consternation on his face. I told him that I entered UG in 1974 and the square feet that the exam division occupied are the same since then right up to 2015. That space is exactly the same, forty years after I first entered UG. The security outpost at the entrance of UG is the very
Frederick Kissoon same space, no bigger, no smaller than when I first enrolled at UG. The Promenade Gardens must have the world’s longest serving urinal. That urinal, at the Waterloo Street entrance, made by Armitage Company, has been there since the Gardens first opened at the beginning of the 20th century.
Dem boys seh...
Donald trying to get rid of Jagdeo De other day dem boys had to remember de monkey and de perfume bottle. But sometimes, people would really get surprised at wha people does think and wha dem does end up doing. A man sit down and suddenly he decide that he gun fly people to Mars, because de Earth gun end. From de time de man think about how de Earth gun blow up or something, he come up wid a plan fuh move some people to another planet. Believe it or not some people actually pay already to go to Mars. Dem ain’t got house on Mars, no electricity, no running water, no nutten, but these people going. De few of dem gun start up a whole world. Jagdeo going too. From de time he tell people that he ain’t got time wid Guyana, people shoulda suspect. Donald done buy de ticket fuh Jagdeo to go to Mars. Dem boys seh that de idea is to send him far suh he can’t corrupt nobody else in Guyana. He can try wid dem pun Mars. Normally, somebody pun Mars got to set up a system fuh people do different thing. Jagdeo accustom to money, but dem don’t have a printery fuh print paper money, suh people wondering wha people gun use fuh money. Jagdeo gun mek sure that dem use
Guyana currency because he got nuff, too much fuh he alone spend in Guyana at this time. So that would be de currency of choice. Is a pity that dem got limited space pun de one-way flight. But dem ain’t got a oneway street to deal wid de eye pass whah Hannan going on wid. He decide that he got to know who driving de Lexus wha dem remigrant bring in. In fact, he want to know wheh de Lexus deh. De Waterfalls boss man seh Hannan ain’t got to worry because he gun drive one and carry it in front of de Big Market paper office and give Hannan to drive. Dem boys want to know wha he does drive and who does drive he when de night come. Of course dem got space in de Lexus fuh him an even if dem ain’t got space, de Waterfalls boss man done decide that he prepared to have Hannan sit on he lap while he driving dem same Lexus wha Hannan want to know about. Is a pity that he using de Big Market paper to pick at de Waterfalls paper and de boss man just fuh get people attention. Imagine dem boys use to believe that de Big Market paper had more class. Talk half and wish somebody tell Hannan that people business is dem own
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 11
COI revisits Rodney’s final moments - conducts city walkthrough Where the bomb-blast occurred
By Sunita Samaroo Three city wards became hives of activity yesterday morning as residents in those areas milled around the pavements and even peeked through their curtains as a walkthrough was being done to retrace the final moments of the life of renowned political scholar, Dr. Walter Rodney. An entourage of highranking officials, lawyers, senior police officers and ranks, reporters and photographers moved through Russell, Howes, Adelaide, Princes, John, D’Urban, Bent, Hadfield and Croal Streets, and the focus was on one man. The centre of attention was the lone witness and brother of the slain Working People’s Alliance (WPA) leader, Donald Rodney. For about two hours in sweltering sun, the younger Rodney sibling took the Commission of Inquiry through the final moments of the politician’s life. As they began, the eyewitness told those who first gathered at Howes and Russell Streets, Charlestown, that it was about 07:40 hours on Friday the thirteenth of June, 1980, that he and his brother set out to uplift a communication device. He said after crossing
The place where the lone eyewitness sought help for his dead brother
over Russell Street, Georgetown, they pulled up at a grassy parapet on Howes Street, Georgetown; a spot he identified for those present. Donald Rodney, who navigated the vehicle on the night of June 13, 1980, told Commissioners that he slipped out the driver’s side and made his way to the home of Gregory Smith, a Sergeant of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). His older brother, Walter, sat waiting in the vehicle. Though he said the shortcut he used to get there was now blocked by new construction, Donald Rodney
Donald Rodney walking the Commission through what was a shortcut to Gregory Smith’s house
showed where he met Smith and collected a bag that supposedly containing “a familiar-feeling device”. Smith, he claimed, gave strict instructions for them to go about the mission on foot, and according to Donald Rodney, he was told that he and his brother should walk with the device to Princes Street, then to a location opposite the Georgetown Prisons, located on Camp Street. Smith indicated to the younger Rodney (Walter) that they needed to synchronize their watches and that the first signal could
be expected at 20:00 hours. Donald Rodney recounted that it was after receiving the specific instructions that he got back into the car and continued along Howes Street towards Adelaide Street, Charlestown, and proceeded until they went over Princes Street and parked on John Street, just near Princes Street. The COI-related entourage re-entered their vehicles and drove along the said path, coming to a stop in front of The First Century Gospel Mission Assembly building. Again, residents around
that Werk-en-Rust area came out as Donald Rodney stood in front of the church, explaining that it was there that he and Walter pulled over, turned off the engine and waited on the appointed time. At 20:00 hours, Donald said that there was a flash from the package and Walter remarked that it is “okay”. The surviving Rodney recalled that it was at this point in time that he indicated to his brother the need to turn the knob on the box to the secondary location for the second test. Afterwards they drove off again north along John Street,
Donald remembered. Like the Rodneys did that day, the group got in their vehicles and went up to D’Urban Street, across D’Urban Street, continuing past the Georgetown Prisons. They continued past Bent Street heading toward Hadfield Street, to the midway point where Donald remembered stopping the car. Where now stands the White Castle Fish Shop, there was a bakery. It was there, Donald Rodney recounted, that the political scholar met his demise. Rodney recalled that they (Continued on page 12)
The area where the first testing occurred
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Kaieteur News
Exxon Mobil oil rig heads to Guyana Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud in a press release yesterday, announced that Exxon Mobil is expected to commence oil drilling in Guyana during the month of March. The company’s US and Latin American Vice
President, Mr. Chuck Calavan and County Manger Mr. Jeff Simon said that the company’s oil rig (Deep Water Champion), departed Louisiana yesterday, and is scheduled to arrive at Stabroek Block Offshore Guyana shortly. This news comes in the
wake of the Cabinet’s approval of ESSO’s request to carry out a 3D seismic survey form of geological survey in Guyana. United Kingdombased CGG Limited has been permitted to carry out this survey. Persaud expects that the Oil and Gas Policy will give way to modern oil and gas development framework in Guyana. He assumed this position since the Commonwealth Secretariat and other partners are on board with the idea. Further, CGX has concluded 3D seismic survey in the Demerara Block, and the data received continues to be processed, and will be released in a timely manner. Meanwhile, ON Energy Inc. has completed an airborne geophysical survey in Berbice and that data from that exercise is still being processed.
Friday February 20, 2015
COI revisits Rodney’s final... From page 11 sat in a car parked on a grassy parapet, which is now covered in concrete and tiles belonging to the business entity, waiting for the second signal which never came. The younger brother recalled that as he was looking through the window, he saw the dashboard lights come on and what he soon heard was a loud thud. Rodney once again explained that his body was then forced against the vehicle door which burst open and he fell out. Regaining his balance, he realised that there had been an explosion. Immediately he knew his brother needed help. Covered in blood and without sparing a second glance, Donald Rodney recapped that he ran to the home of Dr. Omawale on Croal Street, approximately 300 yards – 878 feet to be exact. As he explained, the crowd marched along to the Croal Street, Stabroek location. Where the Doctor’s house was now stands is the Caribbean Chemicals Limited building. It is there that Donald Rodney recalls running to the door, which either Andaiye or Karen De Souza, a longstanding WPA member, opened.
He recalled telling them that something terrible had happened, asking them to help his brother. He too was injured and it was Andaiye that later told him that his brother had died. He said it was later that he found out that the lower half of his brother ’s body was completely blown off. Donald Rodney had previously testified that he suffered lacerations to the throat, right thumb, puncture wounds with fragments embedded in his left arm, side, face and eye, along with a puncture wound to his right elbow. Rodney testified too that as a result of the explosion, he also suffers long-term effects in the form of impaired vision and hearing, as well as nerve damage to his right hand. It was after officials of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission completed taking measurements of the various locations and Donald Rodney, his lawyer and Commissioners Sir Richard Cheltenham, Queens Counsel Seenauth Jairam and Jacqueline SamuelsBrown poured over an outline mapping the route, that the entourage returned to the High Court Law Library where Rodney’s evidence in chief
resumed. It was there that focus shifted to him being charged with being in possession of an explosive device, and subsequently convicted and sentenced to serve 18 months imprisonment. He testified that during his trial, when he gave his unsworn statement, Magistrate N. W. Jackman was not writing. The route highlighted in the Magistrate’s record of his trial contradicted the statement he claimed to give to the police and also his evidence before the commission. The Magistrate’s record directs that after the explosion he would have been heading south on John Street, which is towards the jail instead of towards the home of the WPA member. But his testimony of seeking refuge on Croal Street, was previously conferred when De Souza appeared before the Commission. Donald Rodney said it was two days after that the said Magistrate convicted him, she was appointed a Commissioner of Title, a position equal by law to that of a High Court judge. Cross examination of Rodney commenced briefly yesterday and is set to continue today.
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 13
UG’s Unions react to VC’s calls for normalcy From all indications an end to strike action at the University of Guyana (UG) is nowhere in sight. In fact, the state of affairs might have escalated, with the Unions in a joint statement labeling recent utterances of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi, as “disingenuous.” The Vice Chancellor (VC) earlier this week, in calling for a return to normalcy at the University, after more than three weeks of strike action, disclosed that upon assuming his post more than a year ago, he hadn’t realized the magnitude of the daunting situation at the University. But the Unions – the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) and the University of Guyana Workers’ Union (UGWU) led by Dr Mellissa Ifill and Mr Bruce Haynes respectively – lashed out at the disclosures which were detailed in a lengthy statement to the media. In affirming their position, the Unions said that “We first of all wish to say that the industrial action taken by the faculty and staff of the University has been triggered precisely by that ‘normalcy’
- vow to continue strike until “decent offer” proposed
UG Vice Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi
UGSSA President, Dr. Mellissa Ifill
UGWU President, Mr Bruce Haynes
to which the VC invites us to return.” “The indecent wages and salaries we are paid, and the dismal and dysfunctional classroom and working environments comprise two aspects of the ‘normalcy’ that we reject. We continue to insist that staff must be treated with dignity and respect and that we must be paid living wages,” the Unions insisted. Moreover, Union heads have declared that strike action is poised to continue unless workers receive and endorse a “decent” offer – either final or interim. They have pointed out too that
“While we empathize with the current suffering of our students, we wish to note that we have been suffering for decades. It is time to end the suffering of us all.” DISINGENUOUS The Unions, in commenting directly to the remarks of the VC that he did not realize the state of the University until he was on the job for two weeks, said that they are certainly not surprised at the “many disingenuous remarks” in the VC’s press statement. The Unions pointed out that the VC had access to several reports and studies which had identified all of the
deficiencies he detailed in his statement. Added to this, it was highlighted by the Union that Professor Opadeyi had made at least two visits to Guyana prior to accepting the job, and his contract was negotiated directly with the Office of the President for a higher remuneration package than had been offered to his predecessor, Professor Lawrence Carrington. Moreover, the Unions are questioning “why the Vice Chancellor, who is a professor with a MBA, who was in secure employment and who was presumably experienced, did not interview his potential
employers about what resources would be made available to succeed in the appointment”. “He was aware of the industrial action by staff and discontent of students in 2012. What did he negotiate to ensure success in his tenure? What potential strategies did he discuss to address institutional defects, personnel issues, and quality assurance?” TROUBLING Having been on the job for two years, the Unions are asking for evidence of the type of dialogue that the Vice Chancellor has had with staff and students that could lead to a collective response to the problems of the institution. “Where in the two years, is there evidence of the ‘respect’ from the VC for the staff?” questioned the Unions as efforts were made to emphasize that it was the same VC and the University Council that abruptly cancelled negotiations scheduled for January 15, last. The Unions are claiming,
too, that it was the Vice Chancellor who sought to change the conditions of workers’ employment, without any consultation, with a new workload policy. They have also accused the VC of terminating the discussions that began on February 4, 2015, by withdrawing his offer of a five per cent salary increase after Union membership rejected it because “it was so ridiculous and the faculty would have had to finance it by increasing our teaching load, as it was premised on a 50 per cent reduction in part time staff.” But even so, the Unions said that they have persisted in trying to get the negotiations back on track, even writing the Chief Labour Officer (CLO) and requesting the Ministry’s intervention. They have added that “On the heels of the CLO’s blunt refusal to act as mediator, the VC now writes not to the Unions, but to Jane Public, appealing for a return to a squalid and stingy normalcy at UG. The respectfulness of (Continued on page 16)
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Kaieteur News
Finance Minister had every right to restore disapproved funds - Luncheon Even though Chief Justice Ian Chang (ag) ruled that it was unconstitutional for Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, to spend $4.5B of taxpayers’ monies which was disapproved by the National Assembly, Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Roger Luncheon refuses to accept this decision. In a brief interview with Kaieteur News on Wednesday, the Head of the Presidential Secretariat was asked if he knew of the next steps government would be taking in light of the Chief Justice’s ruling or if it will close the chapter on the matter. Dr. Luncheon said that the ruling comes from a petition that is lodged by one of the opposition parties, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). On Chang’s ruling he said, “This was, I might say, an excursion, and I think we had better use that word
Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Roger Luncheon
Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh
guardedly, but his comments were an excursion.” The Cabinet Secretary said too, that advice was given which suggested that the parties to the application of a Conservatory Order did not address this issue of the constitutionality of Dr. Singh’s actions in restoring budget cuts through a Statement of Excess. Luncheon reiterated, “So it was an excursion by the CJ.”
Asked to say whether he agreed with the findings of the Chief Justice’s “excursion”, Dr. Luncheon opted to say that one of his observations is that there are elements in the discourse that legal experts will have a field day commenting on. The Head of the Presidential Secretariat said that he made one observation, and that had to (Continued on page 15)
Friday February 20, 2015
Alliance will rescue nation from flawed governance Since the Alliance for Change (AFC) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) joined forces on Valentine’s Day, there has been positive feedback as well as several concerns regarding the true intentions of the pre-election prodemocracy coalition. Some letter writers and political activists, hold the view that the partnership seems to be more concerned about who gets what and not necessarily how certain critical issues will be tackled and the details of its action plan. However, in an interview with Kaieteur News, Carl Greenidge, who served as the APNU’s chief negotiator during deliberations for a preelection union with the AFC, said that though he understands such concerns, one has to try and discern what lies behind it. He disclosed that the negotiations began with a vision of the future – dealing primarily with the desirability of a new dispensation in the exercise of executive power, the rule of law and the value of people’s lives in the community. Greenidge said that the alliance has specifically set a framework to “rescue the nation from a vicious cycle of problematic elections, partisan Government and flawed governance which fuels the lack of a national consensus on governance”. “The agreement captures the mood of the people and can mark a fruitful fork in the road for the electorate. “If the results of 2011 were to be repeated in 2015, the combined opposition would win the Presidency. Since 2011, the PPP has lost ground due to the daily revelations about corruption and abuse of power. In the last week alone the Chief Justice has confirmed that the Government illegally spent billions of taxpayers’ dollars. This is also compounded by the litany of strikes and financial improprieties in the system.” Greenidge emphasised that the alliance’s negotiating teams placed a high priority on inclusiveness, allencompassing governance and the utility of the involvement of civil society representatives at the various tiers of decision-making. He said that neither side focused above all else, on the question of who would get
- Greenidge what posts, as that would have been counterproductive. The APNU executive agreed nonetheless that a coalition is a tool for putting together political parties to win an election; to deliver a programme and the arrangements for the team to carry out that plan. He said that the negotiating teams did just that, but as it is still in early stages, the entire agreement has not been disseminated and “that will come in good time.” Greenidge also expressed that the “Cummingsburg Accord”, which was signed by both parties, covers the policies to be pursued after May 11. These, he said, included the arrangements for decision-making in a variety of key areas such as reducing crime and the question of lands and land titles, as a consequence of controversial PPP policies in areas occupied by Indigenous people. He said that the same focus of the alliance applies to the primacy of employment generation, income policies, and youth and training. Greenidge posited that among the approaches to these issues would be the inclusion of Civil Society representatives in the planning and formulation of solutions as well as the implementation of the proposals. He noted as well that as APNU did in 2011, the parties in the alliance have set out the main policies to be pursued in the first 100 days after assuming office. The former finance minister was also asked to address the concern that the APNU-AFC union is perhaps the biggest political gamble for the opposition in going to the polls. He emphasized that this is not the case. He referred to the newly-formed alliance as the most important political development to have taken place in Guyana since 1980, because it shows a degree of maturity among some of the main political actors. The politician was asked to explain what influenced the decision to reintroduce the position of Vice President, of which there are three such designations. He said that it was brought back in order to help balance the allocation of
APNU’s Carl Greenidge Constitutional positions between the Parties. He reminded that the Constitution permits four and both agreed to utilize three. The fourth, he said, is in reserve. “The concerns about them being unnecessary arise largely because observers believe that they will be used as before, to oversee other Ministers, but we did not discuss that, for they are simply senior ministers; a matter of rank rather than of functions.” Further, the recently formed alliance had said that the Speaker of the National Assembly would be picked from civil society. Greenidge was then asked what such a decision would mean for the possibilities of House Speaker, Raphael Trotman, serving in the Eleventh Parliament, provided that the alliance assumes office. The opposition member responded that he would not be able to say anything about the prospects for a single individual, for up to this point, personalities were not discussed. He opined that the choice of Speaker is a matter for the Parties, the President and the Prime Minister. “Mr. Trotman’s future would also depend on his ambitions,” he added. Greenidge also sought to address comments made earlier this week, by General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party, Clement Rohee who proclaimed that the AFC had signed its political death warrant in going into a coalition with APNU. Greenidge said that anyone can have a view on such political matters and Rohee is entitled to his opinion, but the question is whether that opinion is informed in any way by historical experience or analysis. He said that a view can be taken seriously if the owner takes the trouble to explain the basis of the view. On that premise, he said that it is for Rohee to say how he arrived at his position.
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
Family awaits closure over teen’s death …as police investigations lull The relatives of Dhaniram Ramgopaul, the teenage boy who went missing and was later found dead in a creek, are still fighting for closure as their questions remain unanswered on just how the boy met his demise. On December 28 last, the 14-year-old went missing during a family picnic along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway outside of the Splashmin’s Resort. The boy’s body was subsequently found after days of searching in the very creek his family had been picnicking beside. Though a post mortem examination (PME) conducted by state pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh showed the youngster had died from drowning, his family is maintaining that foul play had been involved; the Ramgopaul family believes the boy had been kidnapped and murdered. When contacted, Crime Chief Leslie James said the police had investigated the matter and are still continuing to investigate. He said the case remains open and the police are open to taking in any new information. However, he said, he is
unaware of any concerns voiced by the dead boy’s family, as he had not been in direct contact with the family or received such information from the investigating officer. Further, shortly after Ramgopaul’s death, a number of persons had been arrested. However, these persons were eventually let go and since then, there have been no arrests in relation to Ramgopaul’s death, James said. To date, the dead boy’s father, Kunjbeharry Ramgopaul said he is unaware of any new arrests being made since then. He also said that he does not believe enough is being done by the police to determine all of the details surrounding his son’s death. Nonetheless, he said the family is holding out hope that the police will make a breakthrough in what the family believes is a murder. He also said the police have so far been silent on the matter. He said he had been calling the police often for any information, but was always told that the investigating officer was not around. He added attempts to contact the officer directly on a cell phone
Dhaniram Ramgopaul had also failed. “Since my son’s death the police haven’t been doing anything possible to find out what happened. The details just don’t add up; nobody is trying to get more details in the matter,” the man insisted. He further claimed that there had been a confession but not much was being done, if anything at all. In the meantime, the boy’s father said the family had been finding it very difficult to cope. In an interview with Kaieteur News, the senior Ramgopaul said the boy’s death had taken an emotional and physical effect on the family. He said both he and his wife had fallen ill and the woman was still struggling to recover. He added that up to
a few days ago, he had been to see a doctor while his wife had been hospitalized a few times. “We’re trying really hard over here to cope with this situation…you know when you have a family and we always living so close we always remember him. It’s very hard,” the father said. He said the effects have also extended to his daughters, aged 17, 16 and 13. According to Kunjbeharry, Dhaniram’s death has affected the girls to the point where their school performances have begun to suffer. He said this was the case particularly with the 16year-old. He explained that she had been very close to Dhaniram and had been forced to give up some of her lessons, even though she was preparing for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. Despite the family’s uphill battle in achieving closure, Kunjbeharry said the support of the Good Hope community had helped somewhat. He explained that persons would visit often and offer words of encouragement. “The community really came out and supported us, even up to now when we continue to go through this difficult time,” he said.
Page 15
Finance Minister had... (From page 14) do with when the opposition went to the Committee of Supply and gave zero appropriations for certain budgetary agencies. He emphasized that it was obviously an error on the part of the opposition forces. “I don’t know what happened to Carl (Greenidge, APNU’s Shadow Minister of Finance) that day. I don’t know how you could give zero when there is a provision that provides for one-twelfth of the spending of the Appropriation Act. So if you wanted not to give anything, you had to concede that he (Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh) had every authority to spend up to a maximum of four months…So he had every constitutional right to restore the funds,” Dr. Luncheon firmly stated. In a previous interview with this publication, Chief Justice Chang had said that it is not his business to suggest any sanctions, though he found government’s actions to be in breach of the Constitution. He emphasized that it is a matter for the National Assembly. However, matters of the Tenth Parliament cannot be raised in the Eleventh Parliament. The only option left, he opined, is for the opposition to take the case up in a criminal proceeding. Though Chang had ruled that the government acted unlawfully, he declined to grant the Conservatory Order sought by the plaintiff, Opposition Leader David Granger. The order intended to prevent the government from spending more monies which did not receive Parliamentary approval. But the Chief Justice said that the order was “misconceived and must be dismissed.” He advised that a conservatory order must now (in 2015) relate strictly to future constitutional or statutory spending excess and not past excesses. The Chief Justice had also said that if the order was granted, it would in effect be an injunction against Government spending permitted by the Constitution and the Financial Management and Accountability Act, rather than a conservatory order against non-approved spending for the past financial year, one, he noted, as “a classic case of the grant of an injunction as a conservatory order.” Chang had said that for those reasons, the application for an interlocutory conservatory order cannot be granted.
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Kaieteur News
PPP’s “wholesale copying” from Obama ad is a national disgrace - Someone deserves to be fired - Nagamootoo By Abena Rockcliffe While People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Clement Rohee refused to entertain questions on the fact that his Party’s first advertisement for the 2015 elections is essentially a reproduction of one done by US President Obama in 2012, Rohee’s former colleague, Moses Nagamootoo, is saying that the PPP ought to be ashamed of itself. Nagamootoo said that this sort of “wholesale copying” by the governing party only reiterates what has been said by the opposition over the past three years, which is, that the PPP has run out of good ideas. Recently, the PPP released its first campaign advertisement for the May 11 General and Regional Elections. While the ad sent a positive message, it mirrored
PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee
AFC’s Moses Nagamootoo
one that was done by the Democratic Party in the United States. In 2012, Obama said, “Over the next four months, you have a choice to make, not just between two political parties or even two people; it is a choice between two very different plans for our country…” In the advertisement to
which Nagamootoo made reference, President Ramotar said, “In the next four months, you have to make choices, not just between three individuals or political parties these choices will determine the future of our country…” This was first highlighted by A Partnership for National (Continued on page 25)
Friday February 20, 2015
UG’s Unions reaction... (From page 13) his approach and his appeal are encouraging indeed!” QUESTIONS FOR THE VC According to the Unions, everything they have heard from the Vice Chancellor, together with his actions, suggest that not only was he poorly prepared for the task at hand, but that he negotiated in furtherance of his self-interest and was assured support of the politicized Council for his dictates. “Now that his management of the University is under scrutiny, he is distancing himself from the problems while recycling solutions (as his own) that have been long proposed by many others; and shedding crocodile tears over the plight of staff and students, while he has been directly responsible for perpetuating rather than remedying the maladies,” the Unions asserted. And since the VC has adopted an approach of writing public missives, the Union said they will be following his lead and asking him some questions publicly. “Why is the ViceChancellor managing the University as his personal business? He has taken direct control of almost all academic appointments including deans, directors and heads of departments. He is micromanaging all departments and systems, including the Bursary and the Personnel Division, notwithstanding the appointment of competent individuals.
“When will he learn that decentralisation and the empowerment of faculty and staff are far more effective, dollar for dollar, than his transaction-leadershipscientific management approach?” They are also pressing for the rationale behind the VC’s continued engagement “in the illegal practice of failing to remit our NIS, GRA and Credit Union payments to the relevant agencies after he alleged great fraud in the bursary in early 2014, and proposed and secured the termination of the contracts of the former chief accountant and the bursar?” “When is the VC going to replace the antiquated software which has been identified as penetrable in the Bursary? When will he cease his practice of ‘system override’, given that this is precisely what leads to poor financial management and even fraud? When are all the deficiencies in the financial and human resource management of the University going to be remedied?” the unions are questioning. Added to this, they are demanding to know what Professor Opadeyi has done to bring monies into the University, having sold himself, at the time of his interview, as the man who could attract finances to the UG. Even as reference was made to “the lucrative personal contract he secured from the IDB to digitize the land registry” the Unions asked “What finances has he managed to attract? What plan does he have to increase
UG’s income through nontraditional sources, instead of relying only on brute-force cost-cutting as he does in his financial plan?” “If the University is so strapped for cash, why is the VC bloating his senior executive group? If the University has no money for salary increases, why does his 2015 budget propose an increase from $62.150 million to $97.916 million under the line item ‘executive’ emoluments and allowances? “If there are no monies for salary increases, why in addition to employing a VC to the tune of $3 million per month plus housing, entertainment, telephone allowances, driver, maid, gardener and security, did the University hire two new Deputy VCs at the cost of $800 000 per month plus similar benefits?” “When the salaries of the senior administrative group – including the bursar, personnel officer, registrar are compared to the salaries paid to more qualified academic staff, the inequities are stark and shameful. Indeed, while these individuals deserve the remuneration received, faculty and other staff also deserve decent salaries,” the Unions stated. But according to them, it is not too late for the VC, since he can “redeem himself simply by demonstrating real concern, taking responsibility for the chaos that has developed under his watch, and stop passing the buck and turning the light on those who have the power and resources to make the difference”.
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 25
Locally-written Primary Readers... PPP’s “wholesale copying” from... From page 24 training teachers to use the resources effectively and efficiently in their classrooms, “for the maximization of results.” He hinted at the production and compilation of Readers for Grades Four and Six shortly. “I guarantee you, these will be better, for we are very quick learners.” University of Guyana Lecturer and veteran educator, Ms. Bonita Hunter, was pleased about the release of the series of books, since she believes children will immediately connect with the characters in the stories, the settings, and be able to relate to the experiences they portray. “I can attest to the vast amounts of information that I have acquired from reading. The Atlantic Readers Series is a significant initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Education—a landmark achievement!” It signals the importance of reading by the Ministry, Hunter opined. “It supports the notion that reading is a very important skill that needs to be developed at a very early age.” She noted that children reading the books would be exposed to a variety of information, pertaining to the environment, health, personal safety, travel and leisure activities. “As I read those books, I am caught up in the experiences of each of the children, their families and their friends, featured in the series.” Education Minister Priya Manickchand, during her ad-
dress to the gathering, boasted about the improvement of results in various subject areas in Guyana's schools. She also alluded to the improvements in the sector over the years, including a boost in the number of trained teachers. She emphasised that books signal an investment by the government in the 85,000 primary school children in 441 schools across Guyana. Minister Manickchand thanked the team of writers, led by Mr. Hutson. “We sought to do this (write the series of books) because, in reality, we are buying books from overseas…they are very, very costly, and even though this country has been doing better, we have limitations on what we could spend, so children were sharing books, or they were photocopying books.” She added that the Ministry then decided to tap into local talent to write the books. Manickchand envisioned Guyana entering the Caribbean market, to sell such books, marketing talent and capabilities in publishing and
preparing school material for children. “We believe that right across the Caribbean, these books are going to be wanted.” Keynote speaker, President Donald Ramotar, also congratulated the writing team. “This is extremely important, and I hope that we will see it as a beginning, and that we should be able to produce more of our own texts in the future.” Other officials who attended the launch included Member of Parliament, Mr. Faizal M. Jaffarally; Human Resources Manager, Ministry of Education, Mrs. Delma Nedd; Region Six Chairman, Mr. David Armogan; Regional Education Officer (Region 6), Mrs. Volika Jaikishun; Education Officers, Mrs. Bhagmattie La Cruz; Ms. Ruth Jaundoo; Literacy Advisor, Mrs. Simone Dainty; UGBC Director, Dr. Subramaniam Gomes and NCERD's Mrs. Pauline Stanford. The launch was chaired by veteran English specialist attached to NCERD, Mrs. Ingrid Fung.
(From page 16) Unity (APNU.) During a recent interview, Nagamootoo told Kaieteur News that he was completely shocked when he realized what had occurred. “What I saw was not just mere plagiarism of an idea, it was a wholesale copying of what one President said by another President,” The Alliance For Change (AFC) executive member said that protocol would require that politicians refrain from engaging in such activities. He added that the act of plagiarism at that level, constitutes a national disgrace. “If our leader can only repeat what another leader in another country is saying, we are in a truly bad place. It shows that we are not fertile, we do not have fertile minds and we cannot think for ourselves,” said Nagamootoo. He added, “It is colonial mentality to cloak yourself in the garb of other leaders to appear to be that leader. It is a phony way of selling
yourself.” As he somewhat defended his former colleague, Nagamootoo said, “It is an awkward place to find one’s self to be labeled a copycat, but it does not mean the president actually stole the idea. It is the PR people.” Nagamootoo told Kaieteur News that the person or persons who prepared that speech for the President should be fired. “I would think by now a few have been fired, because the poor President might have been dealing with a script, but he did not know that this was even said before. He may not have been au fait, but now that this thing is in the open he should fire one of them (campaign officials),” said Nagamootoo. At his Party’s most recent press conference which he
hosted on Monday at Freedom House, Rohee refused to answer questions about the suspected plagiarism. Just after he made a point to the effect that the PPP has no one person who is calling all the shots or running the elections campaign, Rohee was asked to comment on the issue. Kaieteur News asked the General Secretary to say whether it was a collective decision to use content from the Obama ad. His response to this publication was, “I would not dignify that question with an answer, you are looking at something that was aired on the TV and was put on by APNU and now you want to migrate that into my press conference … I think you should ask APNU that”.
Page 30
Kaieteur News
SALON Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal and Sacha cosmetics. Call: 647-1773/660-5257
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE AUTO RENTAL:CARS&SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 2193900, EMAIL: PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM
WANTED 1 Mechanic to work in the interior; must know about Cummings & Perkins Engine. Tel: 691-6260 Corner lots to buy in Schoonord, Leonora, Parfaite Harmonie, Eccles, Herstelling, Low & High Income – Tel:675-7292; 6893339. 1 Carpenter Mason to work in the Interior – Tel: 691-6260
VACANCY Work from home: Earn $5,000 to $20,000 daily, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday - Call: 233-6517/ 638-0595 or www.jobfairworldwide.com Salesgirls apply @ D. Singh & Sons, 95 King Street Georgetown –Tel: 226-1316 International Cruiseline AB Sailors, waitresses, waiters, cooks, receptionists, storekeepers, cleaners, electricians, carpenters, welders, cosmetologists, etc. Tel: 231-6296, 650-9880 One female clerk - Call: 2315171 Experienced legal clerk for computer & general work, good salary, immediate – Tel:226-4283; 258-0213 One combine operator & one tractor operator, must have mechanical knowledge, Lodging provided – Tel: 647-0463 Waiters to work at a bar at Agriculture Road, E.C.D- Tel: 612-2522 One Female house keeper, between ages 30-45yrs – Contact: 225-8205 RA Soda Factory: Bond Clerk, Accountant, Drivers – Call:330-2399, 330-2772, 6235920 One male sales clerk between 20-30yrs old Contact: 225-8205
DRESSMAKING Jean is offering courses in dressmaking, curtains, floral & cake decoration. Lot 153 Barr St Kitty - Call: 670-2653, 618-1706 FOR SALE/RENTAL American pool table – Tel: 277-0578
Presser / Clipper, straight stitch/over edge machine operators, cleaner – Call: 222-2541 (8:00am-4:00pm) (Mon-Fri) Cook: must know how to bake, bar attendant, waitress, cleaner and house keeper needed. Tel: 669-1900 One live in couple or one domestic to work in Mahaicony River – Tel:2256571; 644-6905 1 Farm Manager to work @ Pomeroon River must have Vast Farming Experienced. Accommodation & Attractive Salary offered. Contact: 226-9768 1 Female (20-35yrs) must be able to work day/night @ Snackette & Bar, must know to cook- Tel:647-7432; 2235798 Experienced Cook & Chef (shift). Apply in person @ Cotton Club Restaurant & Bar, 44 Public Road Kitty – Tel: 231-1908 Welder/Fabricator. Apply @ Technical Services Lot 18-23 Industrial Site Eccles. Diesel Mechanic, machinist with technical background, 1 office clerk, Apply @ Technical Services Lot 18-23 Industrial Site Eccles. Experienced driver for a 42 Route, 1 RZ minibus – Contact Kelvin: 621-6897 One driver must be living within Georgetown, apply in person at 176 Middle Street – Tel: 227-0152 Driver with minibus licence, living in Georgetown for contract – Call: 646-8748 Wash bay attendant for wash bay in Georgetown – Call: 629-5913 Live in Waitresses to work in bar – Contact: 604-6606 One live in/live out maid / Nanny – Tel:623-5011; 6226113; 227-0152 PROPERTY FOR SALE Prime Property in Brickdam $60M – Phone: 617-4261
Certificate in: Cosmetology, nails, wig designs, early child care/ care for elderly classes commence February – Call: 666-5241/ 619-7603
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.–CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves. Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 Repairs to plasma, LED, LCD television etc – Call: Abdul Electronics: 225-0391 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 225-6496, 6626045 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIRCONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINES, TVS, MICROWAVES, FREEZERS- CALL:6294946 OR 225-4822 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer Call Omar: 2310655, 683-8734 Khemraj & Son landscaping & plant nursery, cutting big trees & removing, 18 Months Coconut trees & lime plant for sale – Call: 627-5969 Eagle’s fridge re-gas - $8,000 & washing machine repairs. Phone: 697-2969, 646-0966 Phone unlocking services/ Computer reload, located @ Tuschen – Tel: 683-2202
Friday February 20, 2015
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. 70 Inch Aquos Smart Sharp Television - $1.1M; bed set $1.3M, Price negotiable, owner migrating - Tel:628-7884 Sofa Set- $325,000; Aquarium $25,000, price negotiable, owner migrating - Tel: 628-7884 Sale! Sale! 2004 Toyota Premo: TV, CD, DVD, fully loaded, unregistered - $2.2M. Call: 642-7295
DOLLY’S CAR RENTAL CALL: 225-7126/ 2263693 DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM/ WWW.DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL.COM Aidan’s Car & Pickup rental, cheap rate, low security – Tel: 698-7807; 690-6494
GT TOOL RENTALS: COMPACTOR; CHIPPING HAMMER RANSOM & FLOOR SANDER, , JACK HAMMER, CONCRETE SAW & MORE - CALL: 675-0767, 627-5098
New shipment of pit bull parts: Wind Screen, bumpers, fog lights, back/ front bearings - Tel: 628-0909
Newly built 1 bedroom apartment, well secured preferably working couple/ single working person with no children – Price $30,000 – Call: 657-8335
Lights: Premio, Allion, Fielder & Carina and One Toyota IST never registered - $1.9M - Tel: 628-0909
Sharon’s Building, limited mall space from $65,000 $275,000- Call: 225-4413/ 614-0949
XBOX 360 S: 250GB, 16GB, 2 controllers & original games each – Call: 683-8386
Commercial property located on Regent Street (22X100) $25,000 USD monthly negotiable – Tel: 223-8479; 6473768; www.spaceseek.gy
600 Amp Automatic transfer switch sold as is – Tel: 6277835 Cheap! Cheap! CCTV Security Surveillance Kit, 8 Channels DVR with built in Hard Drive, 8 bullet cameras Tel: 621-4740 Nail Plate! In stock 3X4, 4X6 & 5X7, Special Orders available also – Contact: 2664166; 666-2361; 656-5616 Prime land located on Duke Street (120X39) and D’Aguair’s Park (8000SQ), ready to be built on. 223-8479/ 647-3768; www. spaceseek.gy Prime double lot located on corner property of Regent & Albert Streets 113X81 – Tel:223-8479; 647-3768 One 30ft Criuser, One 15 Yamaha engine, all next to new, prices negotibale - Call: 688-4139 Earth Delivery on spot – Tel: 617-5536 25 2’X2’ Tables, 18 Steel chairs, 5 B1 Fold Doors, 330"&32" 6 Panel doors, 2 26" French Doors, 1 -36" Shower Stall – Tel:683-5234 1- Security System (DSC), 1Donut machine, 1-6 Burner Stove, 2 cone machine, 1Neon Sign, 1-7 Disc Burner – Tel: 683-5234
CAR RENTAL
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 2-Bedroom upper flat @ 5 Wallers Delight, W.C.D – Tel:674-4929; 662-0187
1-10X10 wooden building (Kabukalli wood), with grill inside can be used for shop purpose (painted) – Tel: 6225986 1 New/ Ridgid /Generator 3600W - $180,000, Two 32" Flat Screen, TV $75,000 – Tel: 672-7194 Sawmill: Timber Harvester, 30th 25th fully hydraulic, electric motor- Tel: 261-2553
Executive houses and apartments await you! Contact us today or visit our website – Tel:223-8479; 6473768; www.spaceseek.gy 1 Executive apartment in an exclusive residential area with all modern amenities including parking. Call for appointment: - 653-2920
VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Pitbull minibus, stick gear, BPP series, mag rims- $2.2M neg. Call: 673-7652 Nissan Titan 4X4; fully loaded; good condition; price negotiable - Call: 6201026 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 Toyota Prado, Price$5M Neg. Call: 643-2403 Unregistered vehicle: Toyota Sienta- $1,895,000, Honda Civic-$1,895,000, 318i B M W -$3,000,000 Contact: 650-0402 2008 Fully loaded Rav4 (PRR Series), White Rush (PRR Series), owner migrating – Tel: 628-7884 1 Black Titan, fully loaded, 4 wheel drive - $2.7M, Must go urgently – Tel:678-2814; 699-2322 1-19 Seat pit bull bus BSS series; price $3.5M negotiable – Contact: 6603385 Twin steer dump trucks, 312 excavators, Toyota Vigo, Toyota Primo, Toyota Prado. Tel: 611-5606 One 580C Hymac @ Mahaicony Creek – Call: 611-8283; 638-6125
EDUCATIONAL CXC Day & Evening classes/lessons Forms 1-5, Phonics Classes - Tel:2233086; 619-7911; 690-5008 9 Courses Diploma In computers: offices 2013, IT $30,000 @ Micrographics , Vreed-En-Hoop: 264-3057 Computerized Accounting Quick Books; Peach Tree; Excel 2013 @ Micrographics, Vreed-En-Hoop: 264-3057 ACCOMMODATION Harmony Inn Apartments: comfortable & clean apartments & rooms - $5000, $6,000 & $7,000 – Tel:6680306; 218-1400; 694-7817. Your luxury hideaway…… Saturdays & Sundays after lunch @ Inner Retreat Hotel Parik: Bar-B-Cue & games: pools, darts, table tennis etc Phone: 260-4504. Inner Retreat Hotel Restaurant & Bar, Retreat Road Parika. Indoor /Outdoor bar in Picturesque setting – Phone: 260-4504; 685-6934.
One 2004 NZE $1.750M, One 2001 Stick Shift, Carina 212 - $1.9M – Call:616-5974 or 618-8703 One Toyota Alteeza excellent condition, Spider, mag rims, flair kit, AC –Price $2.75M neg. Tel:648-0494, 642-0786 Canter: Short Based - $2.2M, Voxy $1.7M, Spacio $2.1M, (all never registered) – Call: 617-2891 Toyota AT212, AT192, Raum, Premio, BB, AE100 Sprinter, Vitz, RZ Bus, EP71 & 825 Starlet, Yamaha R1 – Tel: 644-5096; 697-1453 Just arrived Massey Ferguson, 290 Tractor 2WD, Excellent Condition – Tel:684-6661; 669-9315 Toyota Raum; good condition – Contact: 2642954; 642-1305 Toyota Caldina, white Car, 2000cc – Tel:679-4420 One Toyota Raum – Tel: 2705059 Toyota Vigo smart cab for sale - $3.3M negotiable – Call: 668-4553 (Continued on page 31)
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 31
UG workers should be paid more than 20% increase - Survey suggests Academic staff of the University of Guyana (UG) should be paid a comparable salary to that of their counterparts at the University of the West Indies (UWI). At least this is the conclusion of an online survey conducted by Ram and McRae, Chartered Accountants and its human resources company, Accçdô. A total of 226 persons responded to the survey, with current students accounting for 56 per cent, former students 20 per cent, academic staff 12 per cent, administrative staff two per cent and others 10 per cent. Others included prospective students, persons who were both student and staff, parents, and other interested parties. The survey consisted of 13 questions, and according to a statement issued by the surveying entity, responses were collected over a four-day period using Survey Monkey, an online survey development cloud based company. The survey which was conducted during the week ended February 14, 2015, but was in fact the fourth to be carried out in recent weeks. On the question of salaries, 51 per cent agreed that the academic staff at UG should be paid salaries comparable to those at UWI, while 29 per cent do not. The remaining 20 per cent said they were unsure. The survey revealed that 85 per cent of staffers were in favour of such a proposal compared to only 45 per cent of students. Currently workers of the tertiary institution are on strike for a living wage, other improved benefits and better working conditions. The staff of the University initially demanded, among other things, a 60 per cent across the board increase in salaries for all categories of UA and UB staff [inclusive of part time and casual staff] payable from March 2015. On February 4, 2015, the University’s Negotiating Team offered a 25 per cent salary increase for all categories of staff over a three-year period [five per cent year one; 10 per cent year two; and 10 per cent year three] among other benefits for certain classes of staff such as house lots, duty free concessions, increases in travel allowances, etc. The staff rejected this offer as, among other things, an annual five per cent increase is normally granted, making the offer in effect a 10 per cent increase over three years. A counter proposal of salary increases of 25 per cent in year one; 25 per cent in year two and 25 per cent in year three was made.
The Vice Chancellor of the University subsequently cancelled negotiations, revoked the University’s initial offer, and insisted that workers must return to work before further negotiations. But 37 per cent of the respondents believe that the striking workers should have accepted the University’s offer of five per cent in 2015 and 10 per cent in each of the years 2016 and 2017. The remaining 63 per cent said the workers were right to reject the offer. None of the academic or administrative staff members who responded said the workers should accept the offer, while 45 per cent of the current and former students believed that the offer should have been accepted. Reinforcing their support for the workers, 57 per cent of the respondents consider the counter offer of 25 per cent, for each of the years 2015 to 2017 inclusive, reasonable. Looking at staff and students separately, 91 per cent of the academic or administrative staff members agreed, while only 52 per cent of the students were in favour. Asked whether workers should resume work before further negotiations, 56 per cent said no while 44 per cent said yes. Ninety-one per cent of the staff who responded said no, while only 47 per cent of the students agreed with this. A total of 202 respondents (32 staff, 153 students and 17 others) provided what they considered a reasonable salary increase for 2015 as 25.2 per cent. The separate averages provided by staffers, students and others were 25.8 per cent, 25.5 per cent and 21.2 per cent respectively. Noting that the Guyana Constitution provides for free education from Nursery to University, the survey asked whether respondents believe that the country can afford free university education. This prompted 44 per cent to answer in the affirmative
while 45 per cent said no, with the remainder being unsure. Administrative staff and “other” respondents were more in favour of free university education while only 43 per cent of current students, former students and academic staff agreed. An overwhelming 79 per cent of respondents believe that the Council of the University is politicised, compared with nine per cent who said no, with the remainder being unsure. The group which most felt that the Council was politicised was Academic staff at 89 per cent while those that least felt this were current students at 73 per cent. By law, the Council is made up of 26 persons, but UG provides no minimum for a quorum. Moreover, a significant 81 per cent of the respondents believe that the Government does not spend enough on the University compared with the five per cent who do and the remaining 15 per cent not sure. None of the academic or administrative staff members felt that Government spends enough, while only six per cent of students agreed with this. The survey revealed too that 55 per cent of respondents would like to see UG merging with the University of the West Indies, compared with 30 per cent who are opposed and 15 per cent who are unsure. Sixty-one per cent of students agreed with the merger while only 30 per cent of staffers agreed. Meanwhile, the facilities were rated as poor by 72 per cent of the respondents, satisfactory by 22 per cent, four per cent as good and less than one per cent as very good. Rating the academic staff was not off-limits in the survey, with 15 per cent rating the academic staff as poor, 34 per cent as satisfactory, 37 per cent as good and 12 per cent as very good. Asked to judge the quality of programmes, 15 per cent described them as poor,
37 per cent as satisfactory and 47 per cent as good or very good. More than a quarter of respondents felt, however, that employers rate the UG degrees as poor, 30 per cent as satisfactory and 39 per cent as good or very good. Respondents did not have a very good opinion of the administration, with 54 per cent rating it as poor, 32 per cent as satisfactory, 11 per cent as good and two per cent as very good. And it is the belief of 64 per cent of the respondents that the facilities have deteriorated over the years, 54 per cent believe the administration has deteriorated, 35 per cent believe that the standard of the academic staff has deteriorated and 35 per cent reported a deterioration in the acceptance by employers of the university degrees. However, 14 per cent are convinced that the facilities have improved, 12 per cent that the administration has improved, 26 per cent that the quality of the programmes has improved and 17 per cent that employers now have a more favourable view of the UG degree. The survey was promoted through the Facebook pages of Ram and McRae and Accçdô. It was carried out using an internet-based survey service which contains a number of inherent limitations. The software used allowed Ram and McRae/ Accçdô access to individual responses which were used for purposes of analysis.
(From page 30)
LAND FOR SALE Eccles: Commercial lots for sale at Eccles – Tel:227-2913. Cell: 683-3033 Measuring 90’X165’ facing Atlantic Ocean, approximately half mile from Sheriff Street on High Way. Contact Shiv: 600-6681 51 Acres titled farm land @ The Belle, Upper Dem, River Front - $100M Negotiable, serious enquiries only! Tel: 669-8152 House Lots in 1 of Guyana’s top luxury gated communities @ Eccles, 60X100 - $7.5M. (Special prices) - Call: 2272913; 683-3033 Parfaite Harmonie - $1.4M, $1.5M, $1.8M, Eccles - $4.5, $5M, Herstelling - $45M, $5M, Leonora -$2.5M – Tel:675-7292; 689-3339
TO LET 1 Spacious 3 bedrooms upstairs including inside toilet and bath at Mon Repos E.C.D, Price $50,000 Monthly Tel: 629-5300 Fully furnished 2 bedroom house, short term overseas, TV, cable, Hot/Cold, AC, Washer (South) 689-5877 Fully Furnished vacation home with all amenities- Call during working hours – Call: 227-1218 Apartment with 2 self contained bedrooms in Kitty, wireless internet, Cable, TV, parking, rent $100,000 monthly - Tel: 645-0247 Furnished executive one or two bedroom suites in Diamond. Ideal for foreigners. Call 609 2466
Land @ William Street Kitty; Size: 79FT wide by 116FT length, price $60M Negotiable - Tel: 664-0829 Land @ William Street Kitty; size: 38FT wide by 116FT length, reasonable price – Tel: 664-0829 1 Transported land for sale@ 2nd Avenue Diamond N/S, price -$6.5M neg – Tel:6295300 One residential land at Herstellling Plot ‘B’ E.B.D $4.5M Tel: 661-0618; 6013469; 600-1062 Guyana first 5 Star gated community, now opens, reserve your lot(s) & house. Call: 609-0783 or seroj_26@yahoo.com
PROPERTY FOR SALE Houses & house lots for sale in 1 of Guyana’s top luxury gated communities, located @ Eccles E.B.D Tel: 227-2913; 683-3033 Property with concrete bungalow, modern amenities and features in gated community at Hutsonville E.B.D -G$16M negotiable – Call: 697-4131 1-6 Bedroom house and land in Mon Repos (Martyrs’ Ville) E.C.D, price $13M neg. Tel: 629-5300 One – Two Storied wooden & concrete building at Ketley & Howes Street Charlestown – Tel: 623-9679 Front Section, Diamond, East Bank Demerara – Tel: 674-9266 or 686-9248 Transported two storied concrete property $22M, Block “8” Mon Repos E.C.D Tel: 602-4418 20 Acres of land Business/ farming with 2 storey building owner is moving – Tel:592-220-0255;416-951-3995 FOR SALE/RENTAL 4 Stories concrete building, prime location for hotel, call Centre & Restaurant @ 168 Charlotte St Bourda – Call: 644-3312, 667-3701
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Friday February 20, 2015
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
Dr. Timothy Harris sworn in as St. Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister - Governor General had earlier refused to swear in new PM BASSETERRE, St Kitts — On February 18, Hon. Dr. Timothy Harris was sworn in as the third Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis. The swearing in ceremony took place at Government House Wednesday at 5pm, two days after the united opposition won the federal election 7 seats to 4. The 51-year-old former Minister of Finance, who broke ties with the Denzil Douglas-led administration to years ago, took the Oaths of Allegiance and Office and the Oath of Secrecy, administered by Resident Judge Justice Marlene Carter. Governor General His Excellency Sir Edmund Lawrence presented the instrument of appointment “I pledge as the Prime Minister of the country to uphold all Oaths that I have taken, to work diligently for the prosperity of the country and equally important, the deepening of the democracy,” Dr. Harris avowed. During the auspicious ceremony witnessed by newly elected parliamentarians, Team Unity candidates, family and friends, former Opposition Senator Vincent “Juicy” Byron Jr. was sworn in as the new Attorney General. Following the ceremony, PM Dr. Harris stopped off at government headquarters to greet supporters who had gathered there since late afternoon. He then headed across to Nevis to join his Unity colleagues from the Concerned Citizens Movement for a massive rally in Charlestown. The newly elected MPs will not be able to officially
Sir Edmund Lawrence
Dr. Timothy Harris
take up duties until they are sworn into office next week. The already controversial general election process had took an unexpected turn on Wednesday when Governor General Sir Edmund Lawrence refused to swear in the country’s new prime minister, Dr Timothy Harris. Harris led an opposition alliance, Team Unity, to victory in Monday’s general elections, capturing seven out of the eleven elected seats in the federal parliament. The other four seats were won by the St Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (three) and the Nevis Reformation Party (one). Lawrence said he could not swear in the prime minister-elect until he had a hard copy of the election results from the supervisor of elections, Wingrove George, whose failure on Tuesday to declare the election results prompted widespread reaction in St Kitts and Nevis and from around the region. Almost 12 hours after polling stations closed on Monday, the state-owned ZIZ radio announced early Tuesday that vote counting
had been halted and there would be no more announcements of election results. George eventually broke his silence later in the day on Tuesday and named Team Unity as the winners. In what seemed to be another post-election fiasco, the widespread regional practice of flying in overseas residents to vote in elections resulted in hundreds of St Kitts and Nevis nationals living overseas being stranded in St Kitts after return charter flights were cancelled. One charter to New York’s JFK airport was reportedly cancelled due to US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) concerns over the passenger manifest. The St Kitts-Nevis Labour Party reportedly chartered up to 16 flights from the US and the Caribbean, bringing in more than 2,000 people, representing some 7.5 percent of the votes cast in the 2010 election, the last poll for which figures are available. (Caribbean News)
Former St Lucia PM wants closure to police force controversy The Gleaner - Former Prime Minister of St Lucia Stephenson King has called for his successor Kenny Anthony to release a report done by the Jamaica Constabulary Force on allegations of extrajudicial killings against St Lucia’s police force. Last month Prime Minister Anthony announced that the government had received the report of an investigation carried out by the Jamaica Constabulary Force into the alleged extra-judicial killings in St Lucia. In a radio and television
broadcast, Anthony disclosed that he would address the nation on the matter this month, but just this week rescheduled the address to March 8. King says the Prime Minister must have “justifiable reasons” for not making the address as promised. The claims were linked to 12 fatal shootings by the police that took place during the period 2010 to 2011, when King was Prime Minister. In 2013, the St Lucian Government enlisted the help of the Jamaican police to investigate the country’s police force.
Stephenson King
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Friday February 20, 2015
PHILLIPS TABLES $641B BUDGET FOR 2015/16 KINGSTON, Jamaica Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr Peter Phillips, yesterday tabled a $641.5 billion budget for 2015/16, which is just over $102.2 billion more than the government’s expenditure budget for the current fiscal year, 2014/15. The estimates comprise $432.6 billion in recurrent (housekeeping) expenditure and $209 billion in combined Capital A and B expenditures on special projects, including those funded externally. As usual, the Ministry of Finance and Planning ended up with the bulk of the resources, $200 billion or close to two-thirds of the budget. The Ministry of Education followed with $79 billion. The Ministries of National Security and Health received the next highest amount of $49 billion, each. The Minister also tabled the Revenue Estimates, showing an estimated total of
Dr. Peter Phillips
$443 billion in revenues, which is an increase of some $153 billion, from various tax and non-tax revenue sources including General Consumption Tax (GCT) of $113.3 billion and Income Tax of $11.5 billion. Customs is expected to contribute $25 billion. There is also scope for $128 billion in loans and $4.7 billion in transfers from the Capital Development Fund
(CDF), which is financed by the bauxite levy. After tabling the documents - the expenditure and revenue estimates, the medium term debt management strategy 20152018, the Fiscal Policy Paper (FPP) and the Jamaica Public Bodies - Dr. Phillips invited to the media to a press conference at his ministry, to explain the developments. (Jamaica Observer)
U.S., Cuba to meet February 27; senators see path for end to embargo HAVANA (Reuters) - The United States and Cuba will hold a second round of talks in Washington nest week aimed at restoring diplomatic relations, the State Department said on Tuesday, as U.S. Democratic senators visiting Havana said there may be enough support among Republicans to lift a trade embargo on Cuba. “The talks will be held on the 27th (of February) here at the State Department,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki told a daily briefing for reporters. The sides held historic negotiations in Havana last month and the next round is seen by U.S. officials as critical to fleshing out details on re-establishing ties. In particular, the United States wants to reopen the
U.S. embassy in Havana before Cuba is officially removed from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism. It also wants travel restrictions on U.S. diplomatic staff in Cuba lifted. Cuba made clear in last month’s talks that it first wants to be removed from the terrorism list and wants Washington to halt support for Cuban political dissidents, a step the United States has firmly rejected. The two countries agreed on Dec. 17 to begin the process of restoring ties after more than five decades of hostility. U.S. President Barack Obama has already started to lift barriers to trade and travel. While renewing diplomatic relations could happen quickly, the process
to normalize, including removing the U.S. trade embargo, will take far longer. Republican and Democratic senators have introduced two separate bills to lift travel restrictions on Americans going to Cuba and to repeal the 53-year-old embargo. Although both bills face serious opposition in the Republican-controlled S e n a t e and House of Representatives, they do have some Republican support from legislators such as Senator Jeff Flake, lead sponsor of the travel bill. Democratic senators Claire McCaskill, Mark Warner and Amy Klobuchar concluded a four-day visit to Cuba on Tuesday and said they were optimistic about building bipartisan support for an end to the embargo. McCaskill said largely Republican agricultural interests in the Midwest supported lifting the embargo as “they really want to sell rice down here.” “So it is the business community and agricultural community who I think might have the most influence on helping us make this effort more bipartisan,” she said. Advocates for ending the embargo need 60 of 100 votes in the Senate and a majority in the House, where there are pockets of strong, mostly Republican opposition to Obama’s new Cuba policy.
Friday February 20, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Friday February 13, 2015
Book: Time To Talk Western Tigers claw way to... - Sir Curtly Ambrose
London, England - The title of Sir Curtly Ambrose’s autobiography, ‘Time To Talk’, befits a man who followed up bowling extremely quickly for the West Indies with hardly saying a word off the field. He was part of the enormously successful West Indies team in the 1980s and 1990s and topped the ICC rankings during his career which saw him play 98 Tests and 176 One-Day Internationals. Throughout his career, he hardly spoke to the media, often only doing so to turn down their interview requests. Small wonder then, that “Curtly talks to no one,” has become synonymous with him. In his autobiography, written with Richard Sydenham, he tells the story of his life from his upbringing in Antigua through the politics of both nation and dressing room giving an insight into the career of an iconic sportsman. He writes openly about his relationship with the game, his team-mates and competitors and details key moments in his career including his spell of seven
wickets for one run against Australia in 1992. Curtly does not shy away from controversy either, writing about experiencing post-Apartheid cricket in South Africa and his relationship with Sir Allen Stanford. AUTHOR DETAILS Sir Curtly Ambrose is one of the most impressive cricket players in history. During his career he played 98 Tests and 176 One Day Internationals for the West Indies and for much of that time he topped the ICC player rankings. Since his retirement he has turned to coaching and playing bass guitar in a reggae band. Richard Sydenham is a journalist, author and sports agent. He has written for Reuters, Bloomberg, Sunday Telegraph and Sunday Express, and his writing has also appeared in the Sydney Morning Herald, the Guardian, the New York Times and the International Herald Tribune. PUBLICATION DETAILS: Published: 13th April 2015, Format: Hardback & e-book, Price: £18.99. (Cricket World)
( From page 39)diving Pele custodian. The battle continued and both teams were guilty of infringing the rules that resulted in yellow cards for Marlon Nedd (Pele) and Jermain Sommerset (Slingerz). The match was evenly contested but despite several scares where Manning, in particular, came close to extending the lead, both teams went into the intermission with Pele 1-0 ahead. When the battle resumed, Devon Millington, who was finding it difficult to break away from his markers, eventually succeeded and while approaching the opposition’s goal, was fouled by one of their defenders and awarded a free kick; his shot was powerful but lacked direction, sailing over the opposition’s crossbar. Manning received a sec-
ond opportunity to widen the advantage but his right foot strike, though powerful, lacked direction and went over the opposition’s goalpost. The teams were heading to the finish with Pele’s defenders staunchly defending their advantage when Adams received a cross from the right flank and deftly flicked the ball past Pele’s advancing goalie to equalize the situation and send the game into extra time, and then penalty, where Slingerz prevailed. The finals and third place playoff are billed for this Sunday at the same venue. Further, Police will tackle Monedderlust FC in the night’s opener which will be an exhibition encounter for the ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken trophy. The runners-up of the tournament
will cart off $300,000 while the 4th place finishers receive $100,000. Aruwai Resort and Plaza donate 3rd place prize Corporate support had proven to be a challenge for the organizers of the Mayor’s Cup Football Championship but they remained steadfast and optimistic. Such faith was aptly rewarded when businessman, Chuniela Badulall of Aruwai Resort in Bartica and Aruwai Plaza at Sheriff and Garnett Streets Campbellville donated $200,000 for the team finishing third in the competition. Organizer of activities, Lennox Arthur, collected the gift yesterday and expressed sincere gratitude to his benefactor. He further assured Mr. Badulall that the prize will go a far way in the development of the sport.
Lower Corentyne vs. Corentyne Comprehensive... Friday February 20th ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A task, perhaps job related or perhaps one of your own, might prove weightier than you expected. You're working too hard and you could be feeling tired and dejected, Aries. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Someone, perhaps a person involved with a group you're in, may ask you to help in some way today. You probably don't want to do it, Taurus, possibly because you have plans. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Career developments could look promising now, Gemini, and you might be in a hurry to finish whatever needs to be done. But responsibilities to home and family might interfere. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Some rather depressing information could come to you today from far away, Cancer. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You've been working hard to improve your financial situation, Leo. You might be on the verge of attaining what you want, but temporary obstacles could get in your way. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) A partner might be feeling rather down and need you to cheer him or her up, Virgo. Too many social invitations could come your way today. You may have to turn one of them down.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Worry about developments on the job or unfinished chores of your own might have you feeling a bit stressed and under the weather. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Don't waste any time lapsing into negative thoughts. Assess what needs doing and do it. This is only a temporary situation. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Some professional colleagues might be coming to visit, Sagittarius, and you may not be looking forward to it. You could be worried. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) On days like this, you need to make a special effort to keep cool. Nothing is so important that you have to drive yourself crazy. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You might reflect on recent successes in business and money and suddenly feel a strong sense of gloom, wondering if it's going to continue. Don't panic, Aquarius. It isn't a vision of the future. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Work that could advance you professionally could take you away from loved ones, Pisces, and cause some emotional tension. You might feel down because you'd rather be with your loved ones but feel it's important to move ahead now.
(From page 38) Corentyne took care of J.C. Chandisingh by 62 runs to book their respective places in the finals. Scores – Males Central Corentyne lost to Lower Corentyne by seven wickets. Central Corentyne 51 for 8 in 10 overs; Jawan 15, Keith Simpson 3 for 7 and Nigel Russel 2 for 12. Lower Corentyne 54 for 3 in 7.5 overs; Keith Simpson 24, Ezekiel Simpson 12, C. Lyte 2 for 17. Corentyne Comprehensive defeated Winifred Gaskin by 38 runs. Corentyne Comprehensive 109 for 1 off 10 overs; Surendra Budhoo 45 not out, Avinash Ramnarine 30. Winifred Gaskin 71 all out in 8.5 overs; H. Budhoo 14 and O. Budhu 13. Emanuel Seecharran 2 for 10, Germaine Pollard 2 for 12. Females Central Corentyne hammered J.C. Chandisingh Secondary by 62 runs. Central Corentyne 89 for 9 off 10 overs; Shaneeta Grimmond 30, Nandanie Tyman 14 and Jennifer De Guiar 12. Merlene Casy 2 for 6. J.C. Chandisingh 27 all out in 6 overs. Y. Cho 13. Nicasy George 4 for 6, Shaneeta Grimmond 2 for 3. Port Mourant Secondary defeated Manchester High by 55 runs. Port Mourant 85 for 6 in 10 overs. Erica Lashley 38 not out off 29 balls. Diana Leitch 2 for 11. Manchester High 30 all out in 9.1 overs. Aleema Arokium 3 for 4, Denesser Fraser 2 for 6. The female final between Port Mourant and Central Corentyne will bowl off at 10:00hrs while the male cham-
pionship game between Lower Corentyne and
Corentyne Comprehensive will commence at 12:00 noon.
Friday February 13, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Lewis Hamilton pulls out of F1 testing after RHTYSC frustrated over the state just 11 laps as World Champion is taken ill of affairs at Area ‘H’ ground Formula One World Champion Lewis Letter to the Sports Editor
A large grassless area at the Area ‘H’ ground.
Garbage on a section of the Area ‘H’ ground Dear Mr. Editor, The Management of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club is once again expressing its frustration over the sad state of affairs at the Area ‘H’ ground and the failure of the relevant authorities to take the necessary action to correct this situation. Over the last two years we have been complaining about the work performance and ethics of the relevant authority in charge of the Area ‘H’ ground but instead of seeing improvement, the situation has gotten worse. The ground is full of garbage with several piles being there for months, the grass and bushes are very high around the boundary boards and the three pavilions while in the cricket field itself, the grass is high at the eastern end. The southern pavilion continues to have a vulgar sign written by unknown persons despite media coverage of same over one month ago. The multi-million dollars sanitary facility is in a sad state of neglect, the water connection is loose and the water is flooding areas around the all weather court. For the last eight years, the Town Council has not provided security lights or security for one of its most expensive assets. The Town Council upon a publication of a letter to the Editor in the national newspapers had withdrawn the services of the Caretaker but he returned last week and there has been no improvement. Club members are still forced to prepare pitches for matches and to clean the venue. The Caretaker is away from the venue 95% of the time and is very disrespectful to members of the Club. Two members of the club were verbally abused
on Monday February 6, 2015 during the hosting of the semifinals of the Club’s Silver Jubilee Tapeball tournament. What is of great concern to the Club is the failure of the Mayor and Town Council to implement its own policy over the uses of the Area ‘H’ ground. A group of unstructured footballers were allotted Mondays and Fridays while the several cricket teams of the Club - Under-13, 15, 17, 19, 21, Females, Second Division and First Division were given Tuesday to Thursday from 15:00 – 18:00hrs to practice. Our players which include numerous West Indies, Guyana and Berbice players are unable to properly practice as the footballers set up goal posts and play less than twenty feet away. I believe that it is only a matter of time before another Phil Hughes incident happens at the venue but our club will not accept responsibilities for any such incident. I recall reading a Guyana Chronicle article on Wednesday February 18, 2015, where a young child had his skull fractured by a cricket ball while passing the DCC ground and believes that it is only a matter of time before a footballer is hurt by a cricket ball. It is quite frustrating for the cricketers which include numerous females to only be able to hit the ball one side of the wicket and for batsmen and bowlers to wait for the footballers to kick football on or just off the pitch while the female and Under-15 cricketers have complained to Management about the usage of incident language. The western end of the outfield has also been badly destroyed with a huge part left grassless by the football players. We would not want
the footballers to stop playing at the venue but they should do so on the days allotted to them. I am calling on the Mayor and Town Council to make sure that the footballers become properly organised so that their leaders who would be accountable for any problems that arise. I would like to praise the basketballers who under the leadership of Mr. Vibert Garrett has organised themselves and are playing in numerous tournaments and are mostly disciplined. The RHTY&SC stands ready to assist football in the township but the players must organise themselves. I am also appealing to President Donald Ramotar, Ministers Norman Whittaker and Dr. Frank Anthony to intervene in this sad state of affairs as players the likes of Shemaine Campbelle, Erva Giddings, Plaffiana Millington, Jason Sinclair, Askay Homraj, Delbert Hicks, Brandon Prashad, Cylus Tyndall, Kevlon Anderson and many others are affected in the preparation for county and national duties. The club is also urging the Management of the Town Council to either ensure the Caretaker fulfills his duties or find a replacement. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club was responsible for the upgrading of the Area ‘H’ ground when it raised millions of dollars to fence the venue, constructed an internal fence, an all weather concrete court, three pavilions, two concrete sight screens, score board and charity kitchen among other projects. Your sincerely, Hilbert Foster Secretary/CEO Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club
Hamilton had to withdraw from testing having completed just 11 laps, after being taken ill. The 30-year-old began the session yesterday morning in Barcelona, and was fifth fastest in his Mercedes during the short stint. But after returning to the pits the Briton had a fever and was unable to continue, with 20year-old German reserve driver Pascal Wehrlein taking his place. Mercedes confirmed the change on Twitter. ‘An unplanned stoppage keeping us off track at the moment. @LewisHamilton is unwell and not able to continue driving today’ they wrote. ’So we’re just adjusting the car for Pascal #Wehrlein to take to the track this afternoon.’ Wehrlein had been testing Force India’s car in the morning session, where he was almost a second quicker than Hamilton’s Mercedes. Despite Nico Rosberg being at the circuit, Mercedes decided to call on Wehrlein, in order to keep Rosberg fresh for his stint today.
The 2014 World Champion took part in the morning session, but won’t be involved again until Saturday (tomorrow) Hamilton did not take any further part during yesterday’s testing, but Mercedes are hopeful that their driver will be able to return to action for tomorrow’s sessions. (mailonline)
Floyd Mayweather ready to finally announce that Manny Pacquiao fight WILL happen Floyd Mayweather will announce at his teasing convenience that the richest fight in boxing history will take place in Las Vegas on May 2. All that remains of the long wait for the best poundfor-pound fighter in the world to take on the pretender to that mythical title, Manny Pacquiao, is for Money Mayweather to confirm t h a t i t ’s o n a t l a s t . Mayweather and the Filipino Pac-Man are to be paid a combined purse of $250million for answering the public demand that they finally settle their five-year argument in the ring. That cash-crazy neon desert Strip has lit up with electric expectation that Mayweather is ready to confirm what has long seemed inevitable. The right to tell the world is one of his many stipulations in a contract to which all parties are reliably reported to have agreed after an eternity of wrangling. The deal now done barring a seismic tantrum by Mayweather is also believed to include a rematch clause for a second $300m extravaganza back at the MGM grand in the autumn. The minutiae of which gloves each combatant will wear, the Olympic standard drugs testing which Mayweather has long demanded and Pacquiao’s acquiescence to a smaller share of the fortune are all included. The two major cable networks inAmerica – Showtime, who hold a six-fight contract with Mayweather, and Pacquiao’s paymasters HBO – have settled for both broadcasting this extraordinary event. And it remains a major
spectacle, even though the world of boxing would have preferred that these two men in their mid-to-late 30s had got it on all these five years ago. The president for twochannel transmission was set when Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis clashed in a heavyweight bonanza in June 2002. The final sticking point – which of Showtime or HBO should have rights to the first replay broadcast a few days later – now appears to have been resolved. The fee for the pay TV subscription in America is expected to be a record $100… or maybe $99.95 if they are feeling generous to the public! The cost for ringside tickets at the MGM Grand Garden Arena will sell at the order of $5000 apiece. In expectation of the demand the hotels in Vegas have been hiking their room prices for that Mexico national celebration weekend in advance. Thousands of highrollers, not just from south of the border and the US, but from around the world, have been booking in advance. With even his lesser share of the booty, Pacquiao’s minimum $100m has been ample incentive for him to concede such trifles as Mayweather – who will receive $150m - taking the lead billing as well as both entering the ring and being acclaimed last by the ring announcer. Although there were fears, justified or not, that Mayweather would prefer not to risk his unbeaten record against the Philippines congressman, who is still the biggest threat to that distinction, the offer seems to have proved too good to
refuse. From a British point of view, it’s an obvious disappointment for Amir Khan to miss out on fighting either one of them, but even he has admitted that he wants to see the fight. The pair are likely to undertake a tour of some of the planet’s major capitals to help promote interest, and of course supplementary TV sales around the world, including Britain where Sky Sports, BT Sport and perhaps even BoxNation might find themselves in competition with, if not taxpayer funded BBC, then ITV, who could go for pay per view for the first time. The boost for boxing in this modern communications world will be so huge that it could elevate the hard old game into a major sport on both sides of the Atlantic. A worldwide of multiple millions, will, of course, spread out from the boxing enthusiasts across the full spectrum of society. The fun and games of all the negotiation and delays appears to be over. Let the blood sport begin. The one remaining danger, perverse thought it may seem, is that Mayweather will be so enraged by this information leaking in America that he blows the deal and all those millions sky high. (Mailonline)
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Kaieteur News
Friday February 13, 2015
Fruta Conquerors launches inaugural Massy United Insurance Co. U-15 Football tournament
FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola dates announced
One day after their team was booted out of the Mayor’s Cup Football Championship and intent on continuing their developmental agenda, the executives of the Fruta Conquerors Football Club (FCFC) convened in the Board Room of the Guyana Football Federation, Dadanawa Street Campbellville and launched the inaugural Massy United Insurance Company Under15 Football tournament. Several members of the FCFC joined with Chairman of the Normalization Committee, Clinton Urling for the auspicious occasion and included President of the FCFC, Wayne Forde, GFF Technical Director Claude Bolton, Customer Service Representative of Massy United Insurance, Safraz Sahid, GFA Assistant Secretary/Treasurer Charmaine Wade and Secretary (FCFC), Daniel Thomas, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. Mr. Urling commended the organizers for initiating such a progressive project while noting that tournaments of this nature underpin the objectives of the GFF in addressing its mandate to develop the sport. The NC Chairman further explained that the mantra of the GFF is to oversee organized, well structured football tournaments. “We are fully behind Fruta Conquerors in its quest to achieve its goals,” assured Mr. Urling while lauding the input of the sponsor. President of FCFC, Wayne Forde also congratulated his fellow executives while explaining that the pivotal ob-
Reuters - New York Knicks leading scorer Carmelo Anthony will have season-ending surgery on his left knee, the last-placed NBA
jective of the club is centered on youth and grassroots development. The FCFC boss further noted the club has produced some of the better players locally while boasting that players that had their upbringing in the institution have had their embryonic tutoring at his club’s youth academy. He also extended gratitude to the sponsors even as he implored the continuity of such arrangements between corporate citizens and the entire football family. Mr. Bolton lauded the initiative and said that events of this nature are better honed through group involvement rather than individualistic input. He further said he is very impressed with the vision displayed by the club while committing to support at the level of the GFF once such programs fall within the parameters of the federation’s de-
velopmental vision. Bolton reminded those present that league football is the best vehicle for youth development while commending the club for their continued emphasis on grassroots and youth football initiatives. “The future of the sport rests on youth development so I must applaud the organizers” concluded Mr. Bolton. Mr. Sahid said his company recognizes the importance sport plays within the nation and hinted of future collaboration over the ensuing years. Ms Wade expressed delight on behalf of the GFA saying that she is very pleased with the initiative taken by the club. She also noted that the tournament was launched at a time when there is a paucity of youth football at the association level. “This is the first step in rectifying the situation and I wish to extend heartiest congratulations to Fruta Conquerors on behalf of the GFA for this venture” she concluded. The tournament will feature 12 clubs affiliated to the Georgetown Football Association and will get underway from March 7-April 4 at the Tucville ground. The competing teams will be divided into two groups and top two finishers in each group will advance to the knockout round. Several other corporate entities have rendered support including Dynas Embroidery and Design and Milton Branford of Colours who donated one football to each of the participating clubs to aid in their preparations.
With the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015™ set to kick off on 6 June, fans across Canada will be given the chance to get a taste of what is to come when the Women’s World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola launches in Ottawa on 1 April. The two-month, 12-city tour will be free to the public and is set to travel from coast-tocoast in celebration of football and women in sport, giving Canadians a rare chance to get up-close-and-personal with the FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy. The first ever tour of the official FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy will include several interactive and engaging elements, as well as surprises along the way - all in the spirit of setting the stage for what is anticipated to be the largest live spectator sporting event in Canada’s history and the biggest Women’s World Cup to-date. ”This trophy tour will be the rallying cry for our team leading up to the tournament in June,” said Canada women’s coach John Herdman. “As the Trophy makes its way across Canada, and we see the support and pride that Canadians have for the game and our team, it will push us even harder.” Fans will get a feel for what they can expect during the tournament this summer at the custom-designed Fan Experience where they can go head-to-head with the CocaCola Robot Goalie, record a cheer for their favourite team, hang out in the FIFA locker
team said on Wednesday. The eight-time All-Star forward will have a patella-tendon debridement and repair to remove damaged and dead
tissue that has been bothering him since the second game of the season, the Knicks said in a statement. Anthony, whose recovery is
expected to take from four to six months, will miss New York’s final 29 games. Playing his first season of a five-year, $124 million contract, An-
room, play 16-person foosball or learn a trick or two from expert freestylers. The experience leads to a winner’s tunnel which leads the way to the trophy display where fans will get their photo with the original FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy. There will also be special guest appearances from Official Mascot Shuéme and afterwards, guests will cap off their experience with a perfectly served, limited edition aluminium bottle of ice-cold Coca-Cola. ”Coca-Cola is proud to be presenting the first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy Tour, bringing Canadians a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get see this magnificent trophy upclose,” said Michael Samoszewski, Vice President of the Sparkling Business Unit, Coca-Cola Ltd. “We are excited to share in Canada’s passion for soccer and uniting Canadians from coast-tocoast at our Trophy Tour experience.”
”As the stars of the game prepare to take centre stage, it is our honour to bring supporters across Canada the trophy that will eventually be lifted by the next FIFA Women’s World Cup champions,” said Thierry Weil, FIFA Marketing Director. “We are pleased to once again be working with Coca-Cola in sharing our love of football with the fans ahead of this historic tournament.” The FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola will be visiting 12 Canadian cities on the following dates: 1 April: National kick-off in Ottawa, ON; 3 – 4 April: Ottawa, ON; 10 – 12 April: Montreal, QC; 15 April: Quebec City, QC; 19 April: Halifax, NS; 24 – 26 April: Moncton, NB; 28 April: Kingston, ON; 30 April: 2 – 3 May: Toronto, ON; 6 May: Hamilton, ON; 8 – 10 May: Winnipeg, MB; 16 – 18 May: Edmonton, AB; 21 – 23 May: Calgary, AB; 29 – 31 May: Vancouver, BC. (FIFA)
Knicks top scorer Anthony to have season-ending surgery
Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks (7) dunks against Western Conference forward Dirk Nowitzki. Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports thony was averaging 24.2 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 40 games. Anthony has been in and out of the Knicks lineup due to his knee, although he suited up and played in Sunday’s All-Star Game on his home court at Madison Square Garden. Knicks president Phil Jackson said the team had cleared Anthony to play in the All-Star Game.
”We know it was type of surgery that is corrective, and he could play on it,” Jackson said. “He could tweak it as he has a number of times this year. It causes discomfort and inability to play at times. We felt comfortable with him playing in the All-Star Game.” The Knicks (10-43) have gone 0-13 this season when Anthony sits out.
Friday February 13, 2015
Kaieteur News
Colts’ offense steamrolls Falcons, Raiders survive scare -National Basketball Championship heats up
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BVA equip Port Mourant Secondary - will establish model court for school competitions
Colts’ Guard, Shelroy Thomas (right) works his magic Wednesday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall when the NBC continued. By Edison Jefford After an iffy start, Colts United’s offense went on to steamroll Bankers Trust Falcons, securing a place in the Super Eight of the National Basketball Championship (NBC): Road to Mecca II Wednesday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. The Georgetown-based Colts blew the Linden-based Falcons out of the tournament following an intriguing first half in the first of two games of the night. Colts scored 58 points in the last half to beat Falcons 98-68 in a game that ended up lopsided. Guards, Dave Causway, Shelroy Thomas and Rayon Cummings were the main destroyers with a running game that completely wore Falcons down. Causway had 19 points and seven assists with seven steals to compliment his offensive work with defence. Thomas was also unstoppable with 19 points that included six assists while Cummings scored 15 points with three assists and three steals. Colts’ ‘big men’ also went to work with Shane Webster scoring 14 points and grabbing six rebounds and Haslyn Hooper adding eight points and six rebounds. Colts trailed Falcons 14-
19 after the first quarter. Down 25-30, Colts went for surety to Webster on the inside. Webster delivered with eight straight points to give Colts the lead even as Falcons’ Marlon Persaud hosted a jump-shooting clinic for enthusiasts. However, Persaud’s efforts did not get sufficient support as Colts run continued to extend in the game, which persisted in an uptempo manner with flaring tempers. Persaud had 19 points while Devon Thompson scored 11 points and grabbed six rebounds. Thorton Wilson got 10 points and grabbed four rebounds for Falcons. In the second game, last year’s finalist, Retrieve Raiders from Linden survived a scare from New Amsterdam Warriors in a low-scoring defensive battle. Raiders eventually prevailed 48-44, after their offense literally froze in the second half of the game. Raiders went to the halftime break leading 33-17 and increased the advantage to 17 points, 37-20 midway through the third quarter until Warriors went on an 8-0 run to cut the lead to single digits and stem the Raiders’ flow of steady points. Warriors managed to re-
strict Raiders to eight points in the entire third quarter while they doubled that effort, scoring 16 points in the period; this was against the backdrop of Neil Marks’ shooting in the first half that threatened to blow out Warriors. Raiders were kept to even fewer points, seven, in the last period of the game, but Warriors could not finish on possession, which sort of giftwrapped the game for Raiders. Raiders meltdown and Warriors surge actively engaged the small but vocal crowd. Marks finished with 20 points and nine rebounds while Keon Cameron had nine points to ensure that the Linden-based team join Kings, another team from Linden, in the quarterfinal round. For Warriors, Edmar Semple scored 19 points and grabbed 12 rebounds while Kevin Thom had eight points and four assists. The Super Eight Playoffs will commence The National Basketball Championship Weekend next Friday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. The Final Four will follow the next day with Finals set for Sunday March 1 in a pulsating weekend of basketball.
Kenyan marathon runner Muraga handed two-year doping ban Reuters - Kenya’s Julia Mumbi Muraga, winner of the 2014 Cologne marathon, has been banned for two years after failing a drugs test, Athletics Kenya (AK) said yesterday. Muraga’s ban comes at a time when Kenya is under intense pressure to root out doping among its athletes who are viewed as some the world’s best middle and long distance runners but have failed a number of drug tests. Muraga, 31, tested positive for the banned blood-booster Erythropoietin (EPO), Athletics Kenya (AK) said. Athletics Kenya chief executive Isaac Mwangi Kamande said Muraga has been sum-
moned to defend her case. “She still has time to appeal,” Mwangi told reporters in Nairobi. Muraga has been stripped of her Cologne title after the German Anti-Doping Agency discovered that she had returned a positive test. Ethiopia’s Shasho Insermu, who was second in the race, has been named as the new winner by organizers of the race. Dozens of Kenyan athletes have failed dope tests in the past two years. Kenyan government officials have blamed the growing doping cases on foreign agents and AK’s failure to educate its athletes properly.
Godwyn Allicock handing over volleyballs and net to Rohan Etwaroo in the presence of students. Vice President of the Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA), Mr. Godwyn Allicock recently presented volleyballs and a net to the Port Mourant Secondary School. The gesture is part of the association’s plans to promote the sport in schools, whilst attracting more female players on board. The equipment was handed over to the school’s Sports Co-ordinator, Mr. Rohan
Etwaroo. Allicock indicated that the BVA will be assisting the school with the marking of the court and erecting the posts in time for the school’s planned end of the month Inter House competition. Principal of the school Mr. Mark Lyte, who is also the President of the Guyana Teachers Union said he was pleased that volleyball will be part of the school’s sports
programme and expressed gratitude to the association for the donation. The BVA has plans to assist all schools in Berbice and to also promote Beach Volleyball and Volleyball for Females as part of its 2015 activities. Allicock used the opportunity to call on the corporate community to assist in spreading the game across the county. Berbice produced the first National Team back in 1954.
FIFA to host conference for International Women’s Day 2015 As part of its annual celebrations around International Women’s Day (IWD), FIFA will this year host a oneday conference on Friday 6 March covering key topics related to women’s football and women in sport governance. The FIFA Women’s Football and Leadership Conference is set to take place at the Home of FIFA in Zurich and will bring together experts from across the world of football and further afield to present the latest research and information about new strategies to further grow the women’s game and increase representation of women in leadership positions. FIFA President Blatter will officially open the conference while the list of high-profile guest speakers will include: Lydia Nsekera, FIFA Executive Committee member; Moya Dodd, co-opted member of the FIFA Executive Committee and chairwoman of the FIFA Task Force for
Women’s Football; Hope Powell, former England international and head coach; and Nadine Kessler, current German international and FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year. Additional guest speakers and panel members will be revealed shortly. Registration is now open to the general public via https:// womensday.questionpro.com, with limited spaces available. The event kicks off a year in which women’s football will be firmly in the spotlight due to the staging of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in Canada from 6 June to 5 July
as well the 6th FIFA Women’s Football Symposium in Vancouver from 3-5 July, which will bring together around 500 representatives of FIFA’s member associations to discuss the ongoing and future development of women’s football. Meanwhile, in terms of development, FIFA has doubled its funding for women’s football for the 2015-2018 cycle. International Women’s Day is celebrated each year on 8 March and is a day of global celebration marking the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. (FIFA)
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Kaieteur News
Friday February 13, 2015
Zimbabwe avoid UAE loss Guyana and Barbados Zimbabwe recorded their highest World Cup run chase to avoid an embarrassing defeat by United Arab Emirates. UAE’s Shaiman Anwar scored 67 as the qualifiers posted 285-7, their highest one-day international score, in their first World Cup match since 1996. Zimbabwe started slowly before the greater quality and experience of the Test nation began to shine through. Sean Williams’s well-constructed 76 led them to a four-wicket victory with 12 balls to spare in Pool B. UAE, the last of the 14 competing nations to play their opening match of the tournament, almost caused a shock in the picturesque New Zealand city of Nelson as they chased a first ODI win against a Test side. The Arab qualifiers showed few nerves in their first World Cup appearance in 19 years and passed their previous ODI best, 282-4 against Afghanistan set last November.
Anwar’s enterprising 50-ball innings, which included nine fours and a six, set the platform before eighth-wicket pair Mohammad Naveed and Amjad Javed added 53 runs to complete the record tally. Zimbabwe were boosted by an encouraging display against South Africa in their opening match, producing devastating spells with bat and ball before eventually succumbing to a 62-run defeat. The lowest-ranked Test side showed enough in that performance to suggest they would reach the target against a UAE side which had only recorded one previous World Cup win. But UAE skipper Mohammad Tauqir celebrated becoming the oldest captain in World Cup history - aged 43 years and 36 days - by taking the first two wickets as Zimbabwe floundered on 112-3. Brendan Taylor’s swashbuckling 47 steadied Zimbabwe’s chase before the
face off today By Sean Devers in Barbados in Association with Western Union, Carib Beer and Meet Your Match Dating Service
sixth-wicket partnership of Craig Ervine and Williams upped the run-rate in an even game. Ervine’s dismissal gave UAE hope before man-of-thematch Williams took control, capping a tremendous innings with three successive boundaries as Zimbabwe, whose previous best run chase had been 231 against Kenya in 1999, boosted their hopes of reaching the last eight. Scores: UAE 285-7 (50 overs): Anwar 67, Khan 45, Chatara 3-42. Zimbabwe 2866 (48 overs): Williams 76*, Tauqir 2-51. Zimbabwe won by four wickets. (BBCsport)
RHTY&SC Silver Jubilee 1990 – 2015
Busta Champion of Champions semis on tomorrow The semi-finals of the 11th Busta Champion of Champions sponsored 40-over cricket tournament organised by the The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club would be played tomorrow at two venues. Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets will host West Berbice, while Tucber Park (formerly Bermine is set to face Albion Community Centre at the Port Mourant Cricket ground. Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets in the absence of several of their players due to overseas commitment and migration would depend heavily on Jason Sinclair, Delbert Hicks, Shawn Pereira, Brandon Prashad, Vihal Crandon, West Indies female player Shemaine Campbelle and Leroy Bristol to score heavily against West Berbice while their bowling attack will be spearheaded by medium pacers Keon Sinclair and
Sherain Murray, off spinner Troy Mathieson, left arm spinner Leroy Bristol and leg spinners Shawn Pereira and Brandon Prashad. West Berbice, semi finalists in the tournament on seven occasions but never making it to the finals is hoping that Arthley Bailey, Keith Fraser, Keon Fraser, Raun Johnson, Kellon Carmichael, Steffan Adams and Rendell Bobb come to the party against Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets to create an upset. A depleted Albion Community Centre team, missing several national players would have to be at the top
of their game to get past Tucber Park. Albion’s challenge is being led by first round centurion Kandasammy Surujnarine, Balchan Baldeo, Jonathan Foo, Gudakesh Motie, David Latchaya and Daniel Lewis. Tucber Park’s challenge would be led by skipper Anthony D’Andrade, Eugene La Fleur, Joemal La Fleur, Nial Smith, Hakeem Hinds, Devon Clements and Damon Vantull. The finals would be played under lights at the Albion Sports Complex and would also have ball by ball commentary on NCN Radio.
The Guyana Jaguars lead the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Four-Day cricket Franchise tournament with 92 points after six rounds and will hope to give Guyana a 45th Republic Anniversary gift with their sixth win for the season in their seventh round contest which is scheduled to end on Mashramani day. Today from 10:00hrs at the Kensington Oval on the 166 sq ml Island of Barbados the Jaguars face defending Champions Barbados Pride, who occupy the second spot on 77 points in what promises to be pulsating contest. When the two teams last met at this level, in the third round at Providence last year, the Jaguars dominated the match for three days with Anthony Bramble (73) and Shemron Hetymer (47) batting positively as the Jaguars reached 261 in their first innings before left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul destroyed the Bajans with 826 as they collapsed for 101. With the Jaguars needing just 69 to win from the entire final day, the home team seemed well placed to register their first win against Barbados in Guyana since 1984 when a century from Andy Jackman and an 11-wicket match haul from Roger Harper led the South Americans to a ninewicket win. However, a horrendous batting display saw them being bowled out for 66 as the Jaguars crashed to their only defeat in the tournament. But after gaining three consecutive wins on the road, against the Red Force, Jamaica and the Hurricanes, the Jaguars arrived here a confident bunch and well placed to push for their seventh Regional First-Class title and first since 1998. When they last played at this venue in 2012 Guyana defeated the host as Narsingh Deonarine snatched 7-26, exposing the Bajans vulnerability to spin but even without Jason Holder, Kemar Roach, Dwayne Smith and Suleiman Benn who are all with the West Indies World Cup team, the Bajans, on the back of victories at Kensington oval over the Windwards, the Leewards and T&T in their last three matches, will come into today’s game on a high. With four matches remaining
the Windwards (64), Jamaica (57) remains the biggest challenge to Guyana and Barbados in the race for the title. Narsingh Deonarine hit back-to-back centuries in the Dowrich, the only batsman to reach 400 runs so far and one of four batsmen in the
Jomel Warrican first two games and also became the fourth Guyanese to score a ton and take five wickets in the same game in the match against the Windwards. Deonarine took his runs tally to 342 from five matches with two centuries and will offer spin support to legspinner Devendra Bishoo, who boasts the best bowling figures by a Guyanese in FirstClass cricket (9-78) and leftarm spinner Veerasammy Permaul, who has two eightwicket hauls in this tournament. Permaul is the tournament’s leading wicket taker with 43 victims while Bishoo is next in line with 30. Ronsford Beaton and Keon Joseph are genuinely quick and will have medium pace back up from all-rounders Chris Barnwell and Bajan leftarmer Raymond Reifer, who plays his second match against his home team. While all the bowlers have bowled well, the problem for the Jaguars is finding that knock-out punch when the opposition is on the ropes since in both of their games for the year (in Jamaica and Antigua) the last pair featured in half-century stands. While Singh (228 runs from four matches) has the only other hundred by a Guyanese, Shiv Chanderpaul (268 from 4 matches) is again expected to provide the glue which holds the innings together while Rajendra Chandrika (259 from 5 matches), Leon Johnson (233 from 4), Barnwell (220 from 6), Bramble (189 from 6), Reifer (176 from 6) and Permaul (167 from 6) are all capable of getting big scores. Barbados, the most dominating side in Regional cricket with 20 tittles, have a powerful line-up which is expected to be spearheaded by wicket-keeper Shane
Narsingh Deonarine Barbados side to get centuries this season. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite and Royston Chase both have over 300 runs from four matches and both have reached a three-figure score while Shai Hope is the other batsman in their side with a ton this season. Kirk Edwards will want to score big to regain his place in the West Indies team. All-rounder Carlos Braithwaite leads the pace attack with 19 victims so far while left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican is their leading wicket taker with 20 scalps. They should get support from Miguel Cummins, Tino Best, Ashley Nurse and Kevin Stoute. Guyana Jaguars: Leon Johnson (Captain), Rajendra Chandrika, Narsingh Deonarine, Raymond Reifer, Anthony Bramble (wk), Christopher Barnwell, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Ronsford Beaton, Vishal Singh, Shiv Chanderpaul, Shemron Hetymer, Keon Joseph, Rayon Griffith (Asst Coach/ Manager), Esuan Crandon (Coach). Barbados Pride: Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Tino Best, Carlos Brathwaite, Shamarh Brooks, Roston Chase, Kyle Corbin, Miguel Cummins, Shane Dowrich, Kirk Edwards, Shai Hope, Ashley Nurse, Kevin Stoute, Jomel Warrican. In the other round 7 matches, Leewards Hurricanes will face Windwards Volcanoes at the Beausejour Cricket Ground while Jamaica Franchise will entertain T&T Red Force at Sabina Park.