Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Saturday February 27, 2016

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

A SOCIAL CONTRACT IS A SERIOUS COMMITMENT In Guyana, the consensus is that the government is slowly but surely making progress towards its goal of developing the country and provide a better life for all. Despite being in office for only nine months, many including some supporters of the PPP are convinced that the government has made and continues to make changes for the good of the country. Even the leader of the opposition has seen the strides made by the government but he continues to criticize its policies. The public knows that his opportunistic mind-set will prevent him from recognizing the progress being made by the government. It is clear to everyone that Georgetown which was dubbed the garbage city is now cleaned. It has once again reclaimed its status as the Garden City. Merriman Mall has been restored and Durban Park which was known as the “City’s Forest” is being transformed into a sports and recreational complex. Le Repentir and Bourda cemeteries are cleaned and the Independence Arch on Brickdam as well as the 1763 Monument has been redecorated. Based on public sentiments, many are happy that the PPP has been removed from office because of its massive corrupt practices, theft of the nation’s resources, contempt for the rule of law, the people and the constitution and their display of arrogance and abrasiveness. However, most PPP supporters are still peeved that the PPP lost the election and have blamed its defeat on the bombastic attitude of Mr. Jagdeo and President Ramotar’s dull and poor governance. That said, it appears that a tough race is shaping up for the Local Government Elections (LGE) slated for March 18, 2015. It seems to be a foregone conclusion which of the two major parties will garner the most votes in the city since they are facing strong competition from several smaller parties, including Mark Benschop’s Independent Party and the Legacy Party. However, there is no disputing that the coalition government will have a real battle on its hands from the PPP in some of the towns. This battle may be seen as a precursor to the 2020 General Elections. The APNU, on the other hand, has to develop a robust economic policy and a series of strategies to move the country forward and to counter the PPP propaganda, untruths, and distortions. Also, the government has to be in sync with the people by adopting the concept of “Grounding with the People” as put forth by the former leader of the Working People’s Alliance, the late Dr. Walter Rodney. There is no question that the goal of the government is to be re-elected in 2020, but for this to happen, it has to listen attentively to the people and shift its focus away from the recovering of state assets and the celebrations of Guyana’s 50th Independence anniversary. And the President’s enunciation to have a social contract with the people will only be achieved if it is carefully and methodically utilized as outlined by some of the great philosophers, the foremost among them being Thomas Hobbes. A social contract is a very serious commitment by any government and cannot be conceived in abstract; it has to be an inclusive process. It can be achieved by the government if its vanguard position is to involve the people in the decision making process of governance. That being said, it is clear that private citizens will flex their muscles to be the local authority leaders as opposed to some handpicked by the parties. It would not be surprising to see the major political parties taking a beating at these local government elections. This happened in 1994 when the PNC was beaten in the city. However, whatever political defeat there may be, at the polls should not be seen as a sign of disenchantment with the major parties.

Childcare and Protection Agency says sorry for a terrible lapse DEAR EDITOR, I wish to respond to a letter published in the Wednesday February 24, 2016 edition of your newspapers, subjected ‘The system failed these abused children’ which was written by Mr. Michael Mc Garrell. I would first wish to express the gratitude of the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) to Mr. Mc Garrell for his vigilance and persistence in ensuring this matter was heard by the relevant authorities. Every adult is indeed a child protector and we encourage all of society to take similar action whenever a child is being abused. It is very unfortunate that Mr. Mc Garrell had such a less than professional and positive experience as he attempted to report this matter to our Child

Protection Hotline and for that I sincerely apologise. The Childcare and Protection Agency hotline is a 24 hour operated service which exists to receive reports on all matters of child abuse, neglect or maltreatment of a child. The operators of the hotline are not authorised to direct a reporter to another agency but must record all information being provided by the caller. In the event that another agency has some responsibility with regard to the matter reported, the CPA will liaise with that agency or officially refer the matter for that agency’s action. This is the policy of the CPA but regrettably this was not followed in this case; as a result measures are being taken to increase compliance with our

agency policies so as to avoid a similar occurrence in the future. In light of the information provided by Mr. Mc Garrell, officers of the CPA have since visited the location indicated and an investigation has commenced. Child protection is everybody’s business and the CPA relies heavily on our relationship with the public to effectively tackle child abuse in our country. The CPA wishes to reassure the public that our hotline number227-0979 is available to receive reports and appeal to anyone who knows of a child being abused to report it and to keep reporting it until action is taken. Stacey Fraser For Director Children Services Childcare and Protection Agency

The long and winding dusty road that Guyanese leaders do not see DEAR EDITOR, I have been using the East Bank Berbice public road to access my cane farm and for about five years I actually lived in a most beautiful house at Edinburgh which I had built as my retirement home but which I had to regretfully sell at great financial and emotional loss because the dust from the road ‘bathed’ my house in the dry weather and the sludge in the potholes which became craters in the wet weather virtually chased me away from my ‘dream house’. On Thursday (25/02/16) as I tried to access my farm, I was confronted with several machines doing ‘patchwork’ on

the road, a phenomenon that has been featuring for the past several decades, to ‘welcome’ new General Elections and visits by high ranking ‘officials’ and VIPs of all political stripes including Presidents of Guyana. The residents along this road have been unduly quietly enduring the hardships of commuting and the health hazards from the mountainous dust storms every time a vehicle rolls by….and no one from the government, past and present seem to care except when the Prime Minister or the President and others of such high office must travel on the said road. What a shame! What a disgrace especially for

the ‘rulers’ in so-called “social-minded regimes” to allow themselves to be so fooled!! I was told that the road is being hurriedly given another of the numerous “quick-fixes”, “face-lifts”, “windowdressings” etc because “de President is visiting” the area this week-end!!! I could not help asking; “What’s wrong with the President not seeing the road as it is normally? Why try to fool the President by presenting a quick-fix, window-dressing job that hides the reality that all of us road-users and residents have been enduring for so very, very, very loooooonnngggg? Nowrang Persaud

Pres. Granger’s choice of hearsay testimony DEAR EDITOR; Yesterday, February 24, President David Granger, in person, let the world know that he considered the Report of the Walter Rodney Presidential Commission of Inquiry established by his predecessor and continued by him to be “deeply flawed” and does not reflect “the truth.” Announcing that copies of the Report had been circulated but that he was unable to obtain the views of Cabinet as he had been traveling, the President indicated that he would challenge the report’s findings and “the circumstances under which that Report was conducted.” The Justice for Walter Rodney Committee notes that the President is commenting on a Report that is yet to be released to the public. We wish to repeat our call on the President to release the Report to Dr. Rodney’s family, the lawyers representing all parties at the Inquiry and to the media. Indeed, now that the President has publicly pronounced on the Report, it is incumbent on him to release it to the public. Years from now new generations may find it strange that a government had hindered persons in search of information vital to them and the health

of the society. President Granger has faulted the Commission for letting in much hearsay, but in this regard he named only one witness whom he described as a “convict.” The Justice for Walter Rodney Committee hopes that the President in his next broadside at the still hidden Report will say whether all hearsay is out of place or only if a convict is the witness. President Granger should also be reminded that it was no less a person than his current Attorney General, Mr. Basil Williams, who introduced to the Commission the most important piece of hearsay evidence: the book allegedly co-authored by army Sergeant Gregory Smith but published several years after his death. Under cross-examination, Smith’s sister and co-author was shattered when the book was exposed as a complete fabrication. The President made reference to the fact that former Crime Chief “Skip” Roberts was not allowed to testify and former Army Head Norman McLean did not complete his testimony. We wish to remind President Granger that it was he who, despite the strenuous pleas of lawyers and the parties represented at the Commission, brought the

Commission of Inquiry to an abrupt end. The President cannot have it both ways: he cannot stop the Inquiry and later, when the findings are adverse to his interest, lament the absence of their testimony. President Granger, in claiming that the Commission did not give the “Guyana people what they deserve, that is to say what were the circumstances under which Dr. Rodney acquired a certain device and how that device came to be detonated” not only attempts to rewrite the Commission’s Terms of Reference but completely overlooks the expert evidence by a witness whose credibility and evidence were not affected even after extensive crossexamination by the team of attorneys representing his Party. It is regrettable that the President has once again raised the issue of the cost of the Commission. Our Committee is on record as being sensitive to the instances of wastage surrounding the Inquiry, but we find it highly improper for the entire Inquiry to be measured in dollars and cents. We are moved to repeat the old saying-”Justice is more precious than gold.” Wazir Mohamed Justice for Walter Rodney Committee

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Kaieteur News

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What fancy training Long-standing activist from are you talking about? Guyana dies in New York DEAR EDITOR, Having read the letter headed “Guyanese teachers need to be more qualified”, I am left wondering how is it that the pupils/students of my 1930s/40s generation and for several years afterwards, as adults and workers, were known abroad as educated and therefore very useful to employers? And our teachers did not have any ‘fancy training’? I think success in the teaching profession requires a sense of vocation, the ability to communicate, to impart knowledge, and a love of children. I am not sure what “teacher quality” is, apart from this, and I would hesi-

tate to support the view of “doing what you are being paid for six hours a day”. To me, that suggests ‘clock watching’. I often get the impression that, not unlike other professions in the American system, which seems keen on extracting as much money as possible from students, courses and qualifications are required for every step upwards on the examination ladder. Many of the young students I knew in the 1950s/60s had to partly fund their studies by working in restaurants, no doubt run by friends of the college people. In any case, it is not fair to compare poor Guyana with

sophisticated America. Let us “look at the doughnut, not at the hole”. It seems to me gaining qualifications over and above those strictly required for the job demonstrates that one is serious about one’s job and capable of advancing as time goes by, and does not need undue pressure. Instead, let us observe the techniques of those who have been successful over years of practice and try to learn from them, to improve our own techniques, eventually becoming just as successful. If we wish to work outside Guyana, then that is a different matter. Geralda Dennison

DEAR EDITOR, It may be dangerous to be an enemy of the United States, but in recent times it often has been almost as risky to be a friend. The uncomfortable truth is that America has too often treated some of its allies as expendable and this may very well be the case for the Caribbean region, particularly CARICOM, come next January if any of the current Republican candidates happen to make it to the White House. This is a serious prospect which the Caribbean Diaspora and regional governments must address frontally. Even with the friendly Obama Administration, the Caribbean region and its Diaspora still face issues such as the de-risking of some its indigenous banks and unconscionable deportations, respectively. So just imagine what could happen to US/ Caribbean relations under a president Trump, Cruz and even Rubio. We know for sure what our Caribbean American Muslim community will face. The Caribbean Diaspora and regional governments have work to do. First, the Diaspora has to ensure that it brings out the vote for Hillary Clinton. Perfect she is not. Yes she has been “economical with the truth” at times but which politician hasn’t. Despite her imperfections, she is America’s and the world’s best hope at this time for ensuring a world at peace and the pursuit of policies and programs that protect and promote the poor and disadvantaged, including the in-

terests of small states like those of CARICOM. So our Diaspora leaders have got to mobilize Caribbean Americans....to soca, chutney, reggae, zouk the vote to ensure a Clinton victory. We in the Diaspora also need to park our rampant sense of nationalism and project ourselves as a regional diaspora for it is numbers that matter. It is votes that matter, stupid! We are taken more seriously when we speak as a Caribbean Diaspora and a CARICOM region. Our unity does not require that we shed our national identities, but just promote the regional one. We have also got to engage US elected officials on both sides of the isle to sensitize them to the issues that affect the Diaspora and the Region. This is critical and here is an opportunity for regional governments to join with the Diaspora in helping to shape as well as deliver the messages we need to get to elected officials, not only in the US Congress but at all levels including state, county and city. There are some who would argue that America has become almost irrelevant to the Caribbean since Uncle Sam no longer funds large infrastructural projects in the region and that is now China who is most relevant to the region. That is flawed thinking and the region, if it were to subscribe to such thinking, would be doing so at the risk of its own peril. Just this week I had the opportunity to engage in dis-

cussions with US Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett during which I had the opportunity to update her and her key staffers on the de-risking issue as well as the Guyana/ Venezuela controversy, among other issues. This outreach is part of an effort spearheaded by the Washington, DC based Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) at which I serve as Co-Chair of the Private Sector Council. I was also in Tallahassee, Florida for the celebration of Caribbean Day at the Florida Capitol and here the Caribbean American community was able to discuss the issues that affect us and the Caribbean region with key elected officials. I should mention that for the first time Guyana was prominently featured at the celebration with the presentation of a gift bag to each member of the Florida Legislature that included the latest edition of Explore Guyana magazine, a miniature of Guyana’s globally acclaimed Award Winning El Dorado 15 year-old rum and a sample bottle of the internationally (Continued on page 23)

Barbarians at the gate

DEAR EDITOR, It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of a former UG lecturer Kenneth Persaud who was a prominent WPA activist and colleague of Dr Walter Rodney passed away. He was an inspirational teacher and mentor to many. He was popularly known as KP by everyone. He was loved by his former students and those who engaged him during his decades as an educator and political activist. KP was not doing well in his health over the last several months. But his health took a turn for the worse over the last three months. He died at his Jamaica, New York home on Thursday evening. He was a very engaging figure. KP is held in high regards by the Guyanese diaspora and Guyanese at home as well. He was a respected newspaper columnist and frequently delivered lectures in Canada, New York and Florida. People looked forward for his views on changing Guyanese politics. He welcomed political change in Guyana but was soon disappointed by the political direction of the coalition and the return of politics and economics of victimization and discrimination. Kenneth Persaud was educated at York College in Toronto, Canada. He returned home and taught political science at the University of Guyana. He founded the Kitty Progressive College and became its principal. The progressive College catered mostly for the poorer students of society. His major interests revolve around the effects of Imperialism, Globalization and the emerging new World Order. He has always been active in political/social movements of “developing societies”, especially Guyana, and was committed to reform and change towards what he

called a meaningful democracy. He was an esteemed writer who was not afraid to present his views in public. He felt that through the power of education, people could understand their problems and build a better society He was fiercely dedicated to his cause and ideology. In NY, KP saw the need for a community publication after earlier ones failed. He became one of the founders of the weekly Caribbean Daylight and Prime News and its editor for several years. He also founded several other weeklies in New York. And he wrote serious political columns for several newspapers and the respected Guyana Journal. He was also a sports enthusiast and contributed to the sports (cricket) pages of several newspapers. His favorite cricketers were Ganguly, Latchman, Tendulkar and Dravid of India, Lara and Chanderpaul of West Indies, among others. In NY, he became the original secretary of the Arya Spiritual Center which was formed in 1984 by Pandit

Ramlall after the latter left Arya Samaj USA that was formed in 1981. He also worked closely with several community activists to build organizations. He participated in the NY struggle for the restoration of democracy in Guyana and participated in several protest activities. In NY, his students acknowledge the crucial role he played in making sure every student receives a quality education. KP never wavered in his commitment to building a just, equitable, harmonious, multi-racial society. KP will be fondly remembered. He left a legacy of extraordinary brilliance. His students will always be in awe of his teaching and passionate spirit. In NY, the community is grateful for his contributions to various spheres of life and the development of their former homeland. The wake and funeral will be held at the Bergen Funeral home on Rockaway Boulevard, South Ozone Park, New York, probably on Saturday and Sunday. Vishnu Bisram

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Call: 624-6456, 225-8473, 225-8452, 225-8491. Email: glennlall2000@hotmail.com / glennlall2000@gmail.com / glenlall@ yahoo.com / kaieteurnews@yahoo.com

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Saturday February 27, 2016

Massive corruption unearthed in fuel sector...

$150M in taxes lost in Demerara Over 60 Venezuelan fuel market weekly trawlers slip in and out of the Demerara River weekly, each capable of fetching 25,000 gallons More details are emerging over the massive, countrywide fuel-smuggling racket allowed under the watch of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and Guyana Revenue Authority. Evidence, this time around, indicates that the racket is very “extensive.” According to Government officials and sources close to the regulatory agency, an estimated $150M is being lost weekly from taxes, since the GEA neglects to carry out mandatory checks and balances along the Demerara, Essequibo and Cuyuni Rivers. Indications are that for the longest while, fishing trawlers from Venezuela have been coming under the guise of doing business with local companies here. While some of them are legitimate; bringing fish or buying fish and other grocery to take back to Venezuela, a number

of the Spanish vessels are really here to sell fuel. Many of them have modified their tanks, with some having the capacity to fetch up to 25,000 gallons at any one time. An average of 60 to 70 of these ‘fishing’ vessels are said to be visiting areas along the Demerara River weekly. About 50 of them have modified their tanks to smuggle more fuel. This does not include the fuel coming in through local smugglers. From the Venezuelan vessels alone at least $150M in taxes that should have been paid, are lost weekly. The boats are supposed to moor at the Stabroek Market area, at the Customs Boathouse for Immigration and other checks. However, in most cases, the boats bypass the checkpoint and go their merry way to designated wharves where they discharge the

GEA’s head, Mahender Sharma smuggled the fuel. Many of the crew members would disembark and can often be seen making their way through the La Penitence area to Lombard Street en route to the Stabroek Market, daily. “We are aware that Immigration is not even aware that these people are here,” a whistleblower ex-GEA staff said this week. There have been growing complaints of smuggled fuel, with the David Granger-led administration reportedly paying attention after it became clear that the country was losing billions of dollars

annually, in revenues. The Demerara River dropoff points are but a tip of the iceberg of what is taking place in the fuel sector. On Friday, a report in Kaieteur News, taken from whistleblowers and knowledgeable Government officials familiar with the fuel importation business, said that more than half of the fuel that is brought in annually is through illegal means. With Guyana importing more the US$560M in legal fuel in 2014, according to GEA

figures, the loss of taxes is astronomical, rivaling lucrative trades like gold and drugs. Revenues from both gas and diesel, especially, have been one of the biggest earners for Government over the years. Despite significant evidence of fuel smuggling, GEA has managed only a few convictions in court. Former staffers have been alleging that they were discouraged from pursuing some known businessmen who are involved in smuggling. There are also indications

that GEA doled out import licences to persons who were not eligible, as some did not even have vessels or storage facilities for fuel. The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), under new management and a new Board of Directors, has expressed alarm about the level of tax leakages and non-compliance. The massive loss from fuel smuggling would be a hard pill to swallow for taxpayers, especially employees, who believe that they are paying too much.

House passes Finance Administration and Audit (Amendment) Bill - Insists it is part and parcel of Government’s plans to bring transparency and accountability to how concessions are granted By Kiana Wilburg

In an effort to return a system of transparency and accountability to the granting of concessions, Finance Minister, Winston Jordan brought before the National Assembly yesterday, the Financial Administration and Audit (Amendment) Bill 2016. This Bill, he explained, seeks to amend Section Six of the Financial Administration and Audit Act , by inserting a new subsection to permit the exemption by order from the payment of want-of-entry charges , stamp duty and environmental tax of Diplomatic , Consular International, Charitable and Non-Profit Organizations and other entities listed in the amendment. Jordan said that while this modification may be seen as a simple one, it has wider connotations. He said that it is

part of Government’s plans to bring transparency and accountability to how concessions are granted. The Finance Minister recalled giving the keynote address to the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Dinner and Award Ceremony last year when he indicated that Government wants no one “coming and lining up and asking for various concessions.” He reiterated that the Bill is just part of a series of things they will enshrine in the law, as a way of letting investors know what they can get upfront. He said that the previous administration did make some attempt to implement a similar procedure in 2003 but that he is unaware why they were unable to follow through. The Finance Minister said, too, that Government

wants to remove the idea of discretionary powers when it comes to concessions. He also wants to bring various aspects of the law in line with certain agreements that the State is expected to follow. He said, “Under the Vienne Convention, all accredited diplomats are exempt from various taxes and so on. That having said, our Customs laws and so forth have to reflect that fact…We want to make certain that we are making transparent, these exemptions that so far are technically being granted illegally.” But some members of the Opposition were puzzled by Jordan’s presentation. Former Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall was one. He told the House that when he listened to Jordan he was lost since the Bill seeks to do one thing but the Fi-

nance Minister is talking about investors. Nandlall argued that the Act which Jordan sought to amend was repealed and sections referred to in the Bill actually come from the Audit Act. He challenged the Finance Minister to make the necessary clarifications before the House. The Finance Minister said, “Sometimes we have a difficulty in the House that people take words or phrases of your interventions and seek to infer things you never did say. I made it clear in my introduction that the attempt here is to enshrine in law certain concessions that are being given on a discretionary level. “What we are doing is to bring transparency to the way certain concessions are being given out. This is part of the big picture.” The Member of Parliament

also said that Nandlall’s statements bring aspersions upon the Chief Parliamentary Counsel and his staff. He stressed that every Bill brought before the House is carefully looked at. Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira then rose on a point of order stating that Nandlall never intended his comments to bring any disrespect to the Chief Parliamentary Counsel. The Opposition Member ignored the sound of gavel being struck several times by House Speaker, Dr. Barton Scotland. Dr. Scotland said that he could not fathom how a point of order could “deteriorate” into a speech. The House Speaker scolded the Opposition Member for her behaviour stating that it is not something he expects from a senior Parlia-

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan mentarian. He then declared the floor open for the Finance Minister to make his remarks. Jordan did not bother to comment further on the statements by the Opposition and moved for the Bill to go to a vote. It was here that Nandlall then rose to his feet asking the Speaker whether his concern was going to be addressed. In spite of the disagreements, the Bill was passed.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

Britain’s campaign to leave EU takes 4 percent point lead - ORB poll (Reuters) - The campaign to take Britain out of the European Union in a June 23 referendum has taken a 4 percentage-point lead, according to an online survey taken by the ORB pollster for The Independent newspaper published yesterday. The poll, carried out on Feb. 24-25, showed support for the “out” campaign had risen to 52 percent from 48 percent a month ago, while support for the “in” campaign had fallen to 48 percent from 52 percent a month ago. “Since last month we have seen a shift in opinion towards Brexit,” Johnny Heald, managing director of ORB International, said in an email. London Mayor Boris Johnson defied Prime Minister David Cameron last weekend and said he would cam-

A branded balloon and mug are seen in the office of pro-Brexit group pressure group ‘’Leave.eu’’ (Reuters/Neil Hall) paign to leave the EU, but 60 percent of respondents in the ORB poll said Johnson’s de-

cision made them no more likely to vote to ditch membership. Twenty-six percent said Johnson’s decision made them more likely to vote to leave. Half agreed that the economy was a bigger issue than immigration when it came to deciding how to vote on EU membership while 37 percent disagreed. ORB polled a nationally representative sample of 2,014 adults across England, Scotland and Wales online. Britain’s sterling currency fell to a seven year-low against the U.S. dollar on Friday, hurt by concerns about the country’s possible exit from the EU as well as contrasting outlooks for economic growth in Britain and the United States.

Peruvian president investigated in Brazil Petrobras probe SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazilian police investigating a kickback scheme at state-run oil company Petrobras are now looking closely at Peruvian President Ollanta Humala and a former Argentine transportation minister, according to an internal document obtained by The Associated Press. The 44-page federal police report dated Feb. 5 now moves the huge corruption probe beyond Brazil’s borders, saying investigators suspect Humala received $3 million in bribes from the large Brazilian construction company Odebrecht in exchange for contracts in Peru. Humala’s press office did not respond yesterday to repeated requests for comment.

It tweeted that the president had called Brazil’s ambassador in Peru to deny the allegations. Attempts to find a lawyer representing the former Argentine minister Ricardo Raul Jaime were unsuccessful. The document is being reviewed by Brazilian Judge Sergio Moro, who is presiding over the sprawling Petrobras case that has brought down top Brazilian politicians and company executives. Moro’s office declined to comment. Legal experts say the judge could ask Brazil’s foreign minister to ask Peruvian authorities for an investigation or order prosecutors to go after Humala in Brazilian courts.

Hamilton Castro, the Peruvian anti-corruption prosecutor investigating illegal payoffs to politicians allegedly made by Odebrecht and other big Brazilian construction firms, has refused to discuss the case. He has traveled to Brazil several times to talk to prosecutors here. The document says that police seized emails written by a former Odebrecht executive that made reference to $3 million for “Project OH,” which they believe referred to the Peruvian leader. Police acknowledged the investigation but declined to comment further. Odebrecht has dozens of contracts in Peru, including for ports, gas, bridges and roads.

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Ja Goes Green - JLP Prosperity Message Trumps Ruling Party The Gleaner - The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has rebounded from a turbulent four years to defy great political odds and seize the win in the nation’s 17th general election. When the dust settled after an incident-filled day, the JLP secured more than 12 marginal seats to move past the much-needed 32 seats to form the next Government. At Thursday night’s count, the party secured 33 seats to the People’s National Party’s (PNP) 30, making it the second one-term Government, after the JLP’s 2007-2011 stint at Thursday night’s count. Despite the cheers, JLP Leader Andrew Holness soberly took the stage at the party’s Belmont Road, New Kingston, headquarters after the party he leads secured victory in the polls. “I want to thank God for this victory and the people of Jamaica for investing in me the opportunity,” he declared. Added Holness: “We have carried a message and the people of Jamaica accepted our message, but this is not the end, it is just the beginning.” The JLP leader promised that the Government he would be leading would change the way things are done as “we have been given stewardship of the country and we stand to be held to account. That is the cost of victory”. Accompanied by his wife, Carla, former JLP leader and Prime Minister Edward Seaga,

Prime Minister-designate Andrew Holness greets former Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) leader and Prime Minister Edward Seaga at the JLP headquarters. (Rudolph Brown) who made a cameo appearance in St Andrew West Central Thursday, after his first appearance on a political platform in nine years, only a week ago, returned to the victory stage Thursday night, with his political protégé. Holness respectfully bowed to seniority and allowed Seaga to speak. In a witty presentation, the former JLP leader, in turn, paid tribute to Holness for what he described as a hard-fought campaign. Banking on its “Poverty to Prosperity” campaign, the JLP cashed in big Thursday night, defeating the People’s National Party (PNP), armed with

its ‘Step Up the Progress’ mantra. It was unadulterated jubilation for a party that had been repeatedly tested and tried over a protracted span. After surviving several leadership scares over the period, Holness, whose political career careened uncontrollably on numerous occasions since his sudden ascension to the zenith of political life, has finally silenced his critics. The victory materialised after a hectic four months on the trail when opinion polls appeared whimsical at best, seeming to favour one party and then the other at the drop of a hat.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Portia Commends JLP On Victory But Ready For Recounts The Gleaner - People’s National Party (PNP) President Portia Simpson was the picture of dejection as she conceded Thursday’s general election to the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). “The other side won, and I am going to be very big. I commend them on their victory,” she said. Showing a brave face to the few dozen party supporters who gathered in front of the PNP’s Old Hope Road headquarters in St Andrew, she, however, served notice that the PNP has not ruled out winning the election through the court. She said that strong persons must be sent to constituency recounts and that they should pay attention to every detail on every ballot. “Leave nothing to chance,” she said. “We are down, but we are not out,” Simpson Miller said. She told Comrades: “I know you are hurting, and we

feel it, too.” The PNP appears to have lost the election 30-33 in the 63-seat House of Representatives. “I have given all I could in this campaign. In one day, I toured eight constituencies,” she said. “We have done our best,” she said of the party. “If anything, I am stronger than Thursday. This is not a time for crying or moping,” she said. Simpson Miller also served noticed that “we are not going to allow them to wreck the economy of this country that Comrade Dr Peter Phillips built up and put in position for take-off”. She said that the PNP would be watching the new Government to ensure that the decisions taken are done in the best interest of the people. She expressed the hope that “those who succeed us will not throw away the gains made by the People’s National

Party”. Simpson Miller said, too, that it was her hope that the gains made while in power “will not be ruined or thrown away”. Meanwhile, PNP General Secretary Paul Burke said that the loss was merely a setback. “We will go forward again as a strong, united party,” Burke said. Phillips, the campaign director, said that the party engaged in a good fight. He said that the PNP conducted a campaign “free of any shred of malice to anyone”. He said, too, that the party engaged in an honest and responsible campaign. “We respect the judgement of the electorate...We commit to work with anyone who will work for the advancement of Jamaica.” He said that Simpson Miller gave everything she had in the interest of the country and party.

Material shortage forces Centrin closure…

Over 200 workers send home Trinidad Guardian - Central Trinidad Steel Limited (Centrin) terminated the services of over 200 employees Thursday, prompting the Steel Workers Union of T&T (SWUTT) to call for the intervention of Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley. Around 10 am Thursday, about 50 of the terminated workers gathered outside Centrin’s main gate on Mediterranean Drive in the Point Lisas Industrial Estate, Couva, to vent their anger over the decision, asking how they would now take care of their families. The workers, led by union president Christopher Henry, showed their termination letters to reporters. “We are again calling on the Prime Minister of T&T to step in here, to sit and have a meeting not only with the company but with the union together and let us have a discussion on the way forward,” Henry said. “I am also saying some sort of discussion at the government level must be had with ArcelorMittal in terms of the company’s operations in our country. “Since last year to now, we have approximately 2,000 workers that have hit the breadline. When you work that out it’s about 15,000 citizens of T&T being affected,” he added. Henry said numerous efforts by the union to negotiate with Centrin to stay open

Former employees of Centrin display their dismissal letters outside the company’s compound, Point Lisas, Couva, Thursday, where they called on Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley to intervene on their behalf. Photo: RISHI RAGOONATH had failed. He added: “Comrades who have been working in this company for the last 20-25 years, today have been informed that because of the company’s inability to be serviced with raw material from ArcelorMittal they have to close their doors. “The union would have sat with this company and reached out in regards to what could we do together to keep this company open. “They would have said to us there are two things that can be done, either ArcelorMittal opening its doors once again, supplying the raw material or the opportunity for US currency to import the raw material to ensure these workers stay viable, that the company remains open

and the workers stay employed.” SWUTT, which also represents the hundreds of dismissed ArcelorMittal workers, said it also met with ArcelorMittal management to discuss the future of Centrin workers as well. “We would have made approaches to ArcelorMittal as it relates to what is the future of the company here because the management of Centrin is saying their staying open depends on Mittal. “To date ArcelorMittal has not made any statement as it relates to the future of the company. Although the economic downturn has far reaching effects, Henry said workers should not be the ones to bear the full brunt alone.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

THE YOUTH VOTE

The ruling coalition rode to power on the youth vote. Promises were made to the young people. The young people may feel that the promises which were made have not been delivered. The youth vote is being sought after once again. This time no promises are being made. This time the young people are being thrown into the ring as candidates for local government councilors. Is this all that the young people of Guyana are fit for? Are they only fit for the jobs of councilors - positions which previously were occupied mainly by older more matured persons? The young vote is important and the young people must trade this vote for greater recognition. The young people must demand their rightful dues. They must not fall anymore for promises. They must not be used again. The young people should reject being offered only positions as candidates for councilors in municipalities and neighbourhood councils. The young people need political power. The PPP was

not shy in appointing young people to power. Under Cheddi Jagan, a very young Bharrat Jagdeo became the country’s Finance Minister. He later became the youngest president in the world and during his term appointed the youngest ever minister of the government in Guyana in Irfaan Ally. Young people got a break in government under the PPP. There is no reason why the coalition cannot do the same. A great many old people are in government. Retirees are being rehired into senior positions in the government at an alarming rate. At least two ministers, both over 70 years old, have been hospitalized since the coalition came to power. There could be a crisis if this trend continues, because there are far too many old people in the government. The excuse of the government is that they needed the experience. The PNC has not held power in 23 years, and therefore it is argued that at this stage experience is needed in the early years of the experience. But how

Dem boys seh...

Soulja Bai gun get nuff cow calf Yesterday was one of dem gyal budday at de Waterfalls paper suh de boss man decide to carry de entire staff to lunch at Cara Lodge. Upon arrival dem boys hear singing: Oh Mahinda, Oh Mahinda, gas a come and price nah fall at all; Rice and sugar dear a shap ah wha you mean at all.” When dem boys hear that dem look cross de road and dem see Mahinda vehicle park on de road. One of de staff shout, “Don’t touch that vehicle; that is bass man Mahinda ride.” De staff even seh is de first time dem see de vehicle park outside and dem want to know if that is a sign because of de article in de Waterfalls paper yesterday. De singing continue, “Oh Mahinda, Oh Mahinda, trawler fetchin fuel and you getting rich. Customs getting nutten, oh you son of a bitch.” Dem boys seh he just like de bandit who rob de gas station two nights ago. Some of Mahinda fuel did just land and de owner didn’t pay. Dem boys hear that de bandits go to thief Mahinda kickback and one of dem outsmart de other. He send he wid de knife to go and tek way de people money and as soon as he come out de door wid de money he padnah in crime shoot ee straight to he forehead, grab de sauce and beat out. Is thief, thief from thief and Gawd laugh till ee cry. Think about dem boys. Dem still crying. But wheh laugh deh, cry deh. And Soulja Bai is de fuss one fuh understand that saying wid that decision he mek to allow Ministries and RDCs to okay bigger contracts that dem used to. Previously, dem boys know Ministries and other govt institutions couldn’t exceed $1M on a single project without going to de tender board. So dem use to split de tender. If dem had to embark on a project that cost $5M, dem use to award the tender piece-piece, so that dem can get dem kickback and don’t have to go de tender board. Dem boys seh Soulja Bai better tek note. Increasing de contract to de Ministries and de RDC means giving de tender board less wuk and increase de kickback wid de RDC and de Ministries. Talk half and remember RDC mean Raping de Calf. Dem Ministry will; now rape de cow.

Page 9

many of those within the present government have had any experience running a country, one of which only had a short period in government? This means that there is only one person in the present Cabinet with any substantive experience in administering a country. Apart from him, there is no real experience in running the country. The excuse about the need for experience does not hold, because even the old men do not have necessary experience in running a gov-

ernment. They are all learners and therefore there is no plausible reason why young persons could not have been given a break. Even the advisers to the government are mainly persons who are retirees. Retired persons, especially from the military, are being brought out to work within the government, when there are many able and capable young people within the coalition who could have taken their place and perhaps even performed better. The Heads of Boards of

government corporations and agencies are also dominated by experience. Young people are represented on Boards, but not in proportion to their share of the population During the Budget debate the opposition asked for the names and salaries of those employed within the government. They did not ask for their ages. That breakdown would have been interesting. It would have shown the fact that young people are not occupying as many senior positions within the administration as would have been

expected of a government which rode to power on the backs of the young people. Young people do not have the patience as some of the die-hard party supporters. Their loyalties have not fossilized. Something is saying that Benschop will get the youth vote in Georgetown!

Government has started making changes with regard to the limits of contracts that Ministries and other state agencies are allowed to independently award. According to a notice called the “Procurement Amendment Regulations 2016 and published on February 18, in the Official Gazette of Guyana, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure can award construction projects up to $14M. Before time, under the old procurement system, the hands of the Regional Democratic Councils, Ministries and Agencies were tied when it came to certain amounts. Under the new regulations, the thresholds have been raised. Recently, Government explained that the idea behind

the changes is to make the procurement system more efficient and reduce the workload of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, which handles the awards of all the large contracts. Under the revised regulations signed by Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, at the regional level, contracts for goods and services can awarded by authorities there for between $250,000 and $800,000. For consultancy services, the amount will go up to between $400,000 and $800,000 and for construction between $600,000 and $14M. At the Ministerial/ Department and agency level, contracts for goods and services, (other than consulting), have been increased from $250,000 and

$1.5M. Consulting contracts under this category are now $400,000 and $800,000 while construction projects can be awarded for amounts between $600,000 and $2M. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure, under which significant road and other repair workers are being conducted, can now independently through its tender system, award Goods and Services contracts of between $1M and $6M; consulting contracts between $1M and $5M and construction of between $1M and $14M. The limits of the Ministry of Agriculture for construction contracts have also been hiked to $14M while goods and services will go up to $6M and consulting between $1M and $5M. Under the Ministry of

Public Health and the Ministry of Public Security, construction contracts can be awarded up to $8M while goods and services between $250,000 and $1.5M and consulting services, $400,000 and $800,000. The Ministry of Education will now award contracts for goods and services between $250,000 and $1.5M; consulting services $400,000 and $800,000 and construction, of up to $8M. The new changes will come at a time when Government is making a number of reforms in the state procurement process which in the past was highly flawed and prone to corruption. A significant amount of monies set aside for state contracts is reportedly being lost to bribery and corruption.

Govt. raises contract limits for Ministries, RDCs

Page 10

Kaieteur News

Saturday February 27, 2016

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

The moment that led to my rethink of Justice Chang’s learning President Granger has now joined a long list of learned Guyanese, both in and outside of legal training to voice disagreement with Justice Chang’s judicial judgements. The President has disagreed with Chang’s decision to outlaw the parliamentary status of two Technocrat Ministers. But it was a certain aspect of Mr. Granger’s observation that I find very valuable.

The President used the adjective, “regrettable” to describe Chang’s consideration of the case while he was on retirement leave. For me, there is a valued moral and administrative difference between routine leave and end of office leave. In the case of the former, you are temporarily off the job. You are coming back. You are an essential part of the organization. Simply put – you are on vacation. A hospital

or a newspaper or the police force is a very complex institution. The head of such a type of organization would never sever contact when he/ she is on annual vacation. End of contract leave or retirement leave is a different game altogether. You have reached the end of your official and legal tenure at the institution. That is what retirement leave symbolizes. Retirement leave is of the goodbye type. Legally you are still the head because the end of the tenure comes when the retirement leave ends but for most people, they begin the disassociation process during the enjoyment of the end of contract leave. I cannot think of a Board of a Company discussing future strategies with the CEO who is on retirement leave rather than with his successor. It makes no sense because the acting CEO will

soon be in charge and the Board has to start the baptism of the new CEO as early as possible. It is against this background that I agree with President Granger. Why did Mr. Chang want to give judgement on two issues rather than just enjoy his leave and let his successors do their job? While I agree with the President, I am not surprised at Justice Chang’s behaviour. I had had cause to write in my columns on two intriguing pathways of Justice Chang. And the occasions were many when I penned my views on these two pathways. I am doing so again. First, I told him to his face on the corridor of the High Court in front of Mr. Christopher Ram that I knew that he wrote President Jagdeo to get the President to review a decision of the GRA in his request for renewal of his duty free letter. I held the view then, and still do, that the Chief Justice should not have done that. It blurs the line in the separation of powers. Secondly, Justice Chang created legal history with a writ that involves me. In the

history of this country, and perhaps the modern world, a libel writ is not likely to be heard within 12 months of filing. In the case of the Jagdeo libel against me and this newspaper, the writ was filed in September 2010 and the court began hearing testimony in July of 2011. That is a record for Guyana; maybe the world. I am not a lawyer but I believe the educated lay person can understand the law and come to definitive conclusions on judicial decisions. And both lawyers and lay people have been in constant disagreements with several of Mr. Chang’s rulings which, to say the least, are controversial. UG lecturer, Sherwood Lowe, quoted from the Constitution and the laws to show where Justice Chang seriously misinterpreted the meaning of words when he ruled that the two Ministers cannot sit in the National Assembly. It was a good treatise. Christopher Ram to my mind literally demolished the basis on which the Chief Justice ruled that the two-term presidential limit was unconstitutional. That is a sound

Frederick Kissoon rebuttal to me using extensive quotes from the Constitution I now come to the moment where I lost all confidence in the Chief Justice. And here I am repeating the story maybe for the sixth time in my columns. Justice Chang decided that the Minister of Local Government did not have the legal power to appoint Carol Sooba as Town Clerk. My undying belief which no lawyer can convince me to the contrary is that there and then Sooba’s appointment came to an end. But no, this did not happen. Mr. Chang stipulated that Sooba can remain as de facto though not de jure Town Clerk. That was an immensely flawed judgement which no one in the world should accept. From thereon, the Chief Justice for me had gone in questionable directions.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 11

Cost of human safety is too high

- challenges them to come up with strategies without building more police stations The cost of human safety today is too high, according to President David Granger. During his inaugural address at the Annual Police Officers’ Conference which opened Thursday at Eve Leary, the Guyanese Leader said that this cost can be calculated during a tour of the city and its environs and even as far as the countryside where steel grilled barricades are the norm at restaurants, stores and even private residences. The price of safety can also be calculated by the proliferation of private security firms and by the large number of persons who keep on applying to own personal firearms. “The Minister of Public Security can tell you, if he gets five letters from me a week, four of them concern applications for firearms,” the President told the gathering at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex. He said that the situation is further amplified by the increased employment of armed sentries at the offices and operations of many gold and diamond firms. To this end, the President challenged the Guyana Police Force to develop a strategy to effectively carry out their duties at the community level without necessarily building more police stations. Noting that the current public security situation is dominated by community based crimes, the President said that while the force has been reaching out to vulnerable groups and communities it must go beyond mere outreach and build partnerships with these communities. “It must intensify its partnership through community policing and

working with our community schools, community clubs and organizations and civil society.” He said that the approach should be about respecting and protecting the most vulnerable in society such as the elderly, the women and children, especially girl children. According to the President it is disturbing that so many crimes are committed in communities. “A 78-year-old woman, a widow, who is raped and murdered, or a 14-year-old schoolgirl raped and murdered. When a group of village louts burn down a house and kill the residents inside; when a wife hires a villager to kill her husband by hire purchase or vice versa depending on who gets there first. “When a boy and girl who think they love each other have their friendship discountenanced by their parents and they go off and kill one another. When a housewife opens a little drug store, selling ganja; when the screams in the streets of an abused wife are ignored, these are community offences and it is in the community that we must put our policing efforts,” the Guyanese Leader stated. He said that a more collaborative culture needs to be employed by the police, who have to uphold that unwritten social contract between citizens and the state if human safety is to become a reality soon. “We must therefore take a second look at the current highly centralized system of policing; one that was developed when we had a highly centralized sugar industry which focused on the suppression of riots on the plantations,” the President stated.

- President tells Police Officers

President Granger is greeted by the Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud on his arrival at Eve Leary. The Guyanese Leader said that a system must be developed, which is now based on human safety in the communities rather than safety of the sugar industry. Sparsely populated and scattered rural and hinterland communities make highly centralised policing impossible. “It is impossible to establish a police station in every village. Our landscape with a population density of 3.5 persons per square kilometres means that many communities are located not only far apart from each other but a far distance from police station,” the President said, emphasizing that there is need for a system where communities can be assured security even in the absence of police stations. The Guyana Police Force has already introduced a Social Crime Prevention Programme, which has its prevention effects, since it is bringing police ranks closer together with members of various communities to work on individual projects that will benefit all. The President praised the initiative but urged greater work by the police to offer options for young people,

many of whom are dropping out of school, thus becoming unemployed and susceptible to becoming involved in criminal activity. He also underscored the role of civil society to keep communities safe by working with the Guyana Police Force as partners. Granger said that there is

also a need for more patrols which will enhance greater visibility in the communities, and as a result more community work gets done. “People do not live in the police stations,” he stated. “We must not be afraid of foot patrols, bicycle patrols, and now as you have noticed, horse patrols will return to the

Hinterland. So whether by boat, whether by foot whether by vehicle or horse, we must go to where community crimes exist and where community safety has to be assured to allow our regular police to work alongside our residents in order to deter crime,” the President stated.

Page 12

Kaieteur News

Saturday February 27, 2016

Courtney Crum-Ewing’s murder…

Police zero in on four for Crum-Ewing murder …hope to complete investigation by next week - Crime Chief

Three of the four suspects

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is hoping to complete the investigation into social activist, Courtney CrumEwing’s killing as early as next week, according to Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum. The bullet riddled body of the activist was found on the roadway at Diamond New Scheme, East Bank Demerara

(EBD) on March 10, 2015. Five months later, 37-year-old Regan Rodrigues, known as “Grey Boy” was charged with the murder. Having received further information, the police arrested four persons last week. The four were alleged to have played a bigger part in the activist’s death.

Those arrested were Liaison Officer at the Office of the President (OP) under the PPP government, Kwame McCoy; former OP staff, Jason Abdulla; self confessed hitman, Sean Hinds and Okenny Fraser. They were subsequently released after being charged with another incident. They have to report to the police

regularly. On Thursday, the Crime Chief explained that a file was prepared and sent to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for advice on whether charges should be instituted against the four. “Having perused those statements in that file, the DPP would have advised that we

Gunned down: Courtney Crum-Ewing

Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum

conduct further investigation so we are hoping to complete that investigation as early as possible before we return that file to the DPP,” Blanhum pointed out. Kaieteur News was informed that investigators further questioned the suspects last Wednesday. According to the Crime Chief, the arrest of the four suspects was based on some new developments. “Because of the complex nature of that investigation, time did not permit us to complete it. Nevertheless, the individuals were released on their own recognizance and

have been reporting to the police to assist us with our investigation.” Crum-Ewing, the exGuyana Defence Force (GDF) officer, known for his one-man protests, was shot dead while urging residents to vote against the then ruling party, the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) at the General election held last May. The 40-year-old man was shot about five times when one of four men came out of a vehicle and fired shots at him. Courtney Crum-Ewing started protesting and attracted media attention in 2014 after an explosive phone conversation between a Kaieteur News reporter and former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, surfaced. The phone call, in which Nandlall was heard warning the reporter to get out of Kaieteur News, because of a possible attack, prompted Crum-Ewing to start several days of protests in front of the Carmichael Street office of the Attorney General. Crum–Ewing had said that his protests were because Nandlall’s actions were shameful. ”I have three daughters, a mother, a sister and many female relatives that I care about… so I feel strongly about this issue,” the man said. He was later reportedly charged with breaching the peace after he used the washroom belonging to the offices of the Attorney General.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 21

Govt. gearing to wind down public assistance Government is gearing to wind down public assistance. This is according to Minister of Social Protection, Ms. Volda Lawrence, who earlier this week disclosed, “We’re going to work to ensure that this is the last year for public assistance.” The Minister’s disclosure was forthcoming as she engaged members of a newlyappointed Local Board of Guardians. The Board will be tasked with reviewing applications for Public Assistance for persons living along East Bank Demerara. As part of the effort to reduce what the Minister described as the ‘dependency syndrome’, the Social Protection Ministry will be making deliberate moves to teach people to help themselves. According to the Minister there have been some evidence cases of the ‘dependency syndrome’ where people are reluctant to seek alternative sources of income. But with the different approach that the Ministry is embracing this year, such reluctance is expected to become a thing of the past. In so doing, the Ministry will work to introduce conditional cash transfers which will see focus being directed to the family, according to Minister Lawrence. The ultimate objective, she informed, is to bring people out of a state of poverty. Explaining the process of rendering family support, the Minister related, “When persons come into any agency or department of the Ministry, a comprehensive evaluation will be done to see how the family is lacking and we

will support that family in those areas. We believe that Public Assistance doesn’t capture the family, but the conditional cash transfer will.” Expressing her view that “Everybody has potential,” the Minister noted that what is often lacking is opportunity. As such the Minister encouraged the Board to work along with religious leaders in the communities to further support families. DELINQUENTPARENTS According to the Minister, her Ministry will this year be paying keener attention to delinquent parents. And particular focus will be directed to fathers who do not contribute financially to their children’s upkeep. Minister Lawrence considered that too often many fathers have abandoned their responsibility to their families, leaving the State to provide. “Everyone will face the consequence – the law. The State cannot be burdened when a parent or parents have the means of taking care of their children and they choose not to do so. It doesn’t matter how big or small you are we’re going to come after you,” Minister Lawrence warned. She noted that there are cases where women are afraid to seek monies from fathers to support their children because of the men’s abusive

- family support mechanism touted as replacement

Minister Lawrence in discussion with members of the recently installed Local Board of Guardians. behaviour. But according to the Minister, this state of affairs will also be addressed by the Ministry. She acknowledged that there are some parents who are genuinely unable to provide for their children due to various reasons and the Ministry is prepared to support those families. But she emphasized, “It’s unfair to use taxpayers’ money to support children whose parents can afford to take care of them.” The East Bank Local Board of Guardian is one of the many Boards installed across the country that became effective on February 1, 2016 to process Public Assistance applications. Public Assistance is a

form of temporary financial assistance issued by the Government of Guyana to specific persons, including the aged, infirmed, sick, destitute and children below the age of 14. At present, each monthly Public Assistance voucher is valued at $6,500. The Boards are responsible for evaluating and determining the legitimacy of Public Assistance applications in rural areas to ensure that taxpayers’ dollars are justifiably spent. The East Bank Board comprises Roderick Edinboro, Alma Francois-Bovell, Fannett Brandford, Loraine Stephens, Mark Braithwaite, and Deryck Boyce. “The Ministry of Social Protection lacks the capacity

to deal with all the social issues we have by ourselves and as a result we need your help. You are our ears and eyes on the ground. Your interactions as members of the community can help us to get the facts on the issue.” “For too long we have

made judgments about who gets Public Assistance and how much, based on perceptions. I’m saying let’s not use perception. Let us investigate the cases and execute our tasks based on facts. Let’s treat people with dignity and respect,” Minister Lawrence urged.

Page 22

Kaieteur News

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Saturday February 27, 2016

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Vehicles for rental: cars, SUV, pickups etc, long term only @ Ray’s Motor Spares and Auto Sales. Call: 231-7839

Self-contained rooms in Prashad Nagar. Tel: 2272993

TAXI SERVICES GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)

EDUCATIONAL Private teacher for home school, for CXC English, SSEE (all subjects). Call: 696-7467

First Class Auto: Rush, IST, Runx, Sienta, Bluebird, 06 Premio, 06 Allion, Fielder, Spacio, Noah. Call: 6278383; 638-3045

1 Driver- apply @ Technical Service, 18-23Industrial Site Eccles.

AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call: 680-3154

Hairdressers, nail technician, barbers, also hair & nail stations available for rental location: New Market StreetCall: 638-1106

We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 TacomaCall: 680-3154

Security officers wanted by security company-Contact: 672-1920, between 8:00am5:00pm

Toyota Ipsum, fully loaded, music system – 5,800 watt, 7 seater, excellent condition Call: 653-1003

One sales representative. Call: 225-8205

One Toyota 2003 Fielder Wagon, AC, CD, 17" rims, PMM, never work heir, in excellent condition -$1.4M. Call: 619-1047

Cashier with 6 months experience & Grade 3 in English @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff St. Campbellville. Driver/purchaser to work with mining firm in Georgetown, ages 28-55. Call: 226-9768 General Managers to work in the interior on land dredges with popular mining firm-Call: 226-9768 Accountant/clerk to work with mining firm, ages 2355yrs & TM truck drivers for interior. Call: 226-9768 Cashiers & pump attendants. Call or text: 670-6005; 627-2550

Bottom flat for business situated @ Robb Street Bourda. Call: 226-1647; between 9am-4pm daily CAR RENTAL

1-RZ mini-bus BKK series, in excellent condition $750,000 negotiable- Call: 604-6016 Reduced prices on unregistered cars, Allion, Mazda, Fielder, BlueBird. Call City Motors:626-7478; 616-3413

Carsmart Auto Sale: Premio (08) -$2,895,000; C-light Premio (05) -$2,450,000; Premio (02) -$2,295,000 & Spacio -$2,095,000. Call: 6394295; 650-0402 Carsmart Auto Sale: Fielder -$2,095,000; IST$2,095,000, Audi A4 $3,895,000; BMW 318i $2,795,000- Call: 615-3075; 639-4295; 650-0402 CAT Skid Steer 236B -$4.5M; CAT 928F Loader -$7.3M- Call: 650-0402; 261-4121; 261-4018 1 Honda CRV, year 2001, PLL series, price $1.8M. Call: 624-6099 Toyota AT212, in good condition -$1.2M negotiable- Call: 690-3352; 267-1308; 626-2841

TO LET Four storey business place located on Robb Street, next to Bourda Market- Call: 6237731; 629-0636 Fully furnished 1 bedroom, air-condition $90,000 monthly, $6,000 daily. Call: 668-0306; 694-7817; 218-1400 Modernized 2 bedroom apartments in safe and healthy environment- Call: 698-6496 House to rent @ East La Penitence, Morocut Street: 2 bedrooms -$65,000. Call: 6939179; 604-60898 3 Bedrooms apartment in Diamond Housing Scheme. Call: 216-2972

4X4 PFF 6163 (Green) 4 door LHD,3 liter 3VZ engine, good condition – G$1.6MCall 657-6063 1-620-240 DAF Engine, foreign used, 1 Canter GNN 722, 1 Twin Steer CF DAF, GSS 5964. Call: 228-5655; 628-1756 Tractor Massey Ferguson from Canada: MF165 -$1.7M, MF135-$1.1M, MF 265 $2.1M, MF165 loader -$2.4M. Call: 682-5230; 628-9596 Pickup truck-4 door, loaded, 2005, Toyota Tacoma $2.3M, Ford Ranger -$1.5M, Ford F150 Sport -$1.5M. Call: 682-5230; 628-9596 Continued on page 23

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 23

Minister Lawrence named patron of POTS - emphasises importance of youths in society Youth will remain Guyana’s driving force to building a harmonious society, Social Protection Minister, Ms. Volda Lawrence, told the non-profit organisation Prevention of Teenage Suicide (POTS) yesterday. Lawrence, who on Friday was made a POTS patron, issued another call to the nation’s youths to be an active part in helping solve the many social issues challenging the 50-year old independent and only English-speaking South American State. “The Ministry of Social Protection will always be there to help…Guyanese youths (who) can be part of the solution to the country’s social ills,” Lawrence told the group before being sashed and presented with a bouquet and yellow ‘T-shirt’ the signature colour of POTS.

“Our doors are always open to embrace you,” Lawrence has assured the nation’s youths. Guyana’s international beauty pageant representative, Lisa Punch, said POTS is working to help reduce Guyana’s spiralling suicide rate, especially among youths. Punch said that the group’s key strategy is to do so through education, information and the use of other pertinent resources. Guyana has the highest suicide rate, globally, based on its population size and the number of suicides committed annually. Some 800,000 people globally (this figure is more than Guyana’s population) die from suicide every year. In the Americas it is estimated that between 19 and 24 percent of the population have some form of mental dis-

From page 22

FOR SALE

Minister Lawrence receives a bouquet of flowers from Lisa Punch order. Using this figure, one can estimate that between 140,000 and 180,000 Guyanese suffer from this malady. To worsen the issue, Guyana does not have a sufficient number of psychiatric specialists and physical infrastructure to cater for these patients many of whom are suicide-prone. Recent police statistics however blame domestic violence, alcohol abuse and terminal illness, in that order, for the high suicide rate in Guyana here. Punch and the POTS group have so far visited more

than 30 schools around the country to sensitise students about suicide warning signs which include: remaining sad for a prolong period; displaying sudden anger; rebellion and giving away the things they love. The government’s ‘olive branch’ is continuously extended to youths since the Ministry of Social Protection alone cannot eliminate all the social ills of the society, Lawrence reiterated Friday. “The Ministry needs more people to come on board to help build capacity to meet those needs,” Lawrence said.

LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Tuschen Housing Scheme $7M negotiable. Call: 2641050; 683-7045/669-3553

Single & Bunk Beds; freezers, commercial stove, deep fryer, microwave, excellent condition. To inspect Call: 602-1473; 680-0405

Transport property located @ Rosignol W.B.B: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully furnished. Call: 6793496; 602-6333; 330-2576; 699-4689 (motivated settler)

Toyota Rear Differential 39.8 and 14.5 fiberglass boat with trailer and 35HP motor. Call: 678-9536 2006 Nissan Bluebird, imported, newly registered, in excellent condition -$2.2M. Call: 613-1946 Nissan Titan- Call: 696-5135 Brand new Samsung Smart 32" TV, wall painting, candle holder & baby clothes. Call: 669-0828

Maintaining the Maintenance Department

One-6 Cylinder Perkins generator set 55KWs – 110/ 220v, single phase, 60Hz-Call: 695-3444/674-7400

DEAR EDITOR, Even though Wales Factory may be considered “obsolete’’, this plant if properly maintained can still be efficient and reduce the cost of cane sugar recovery. However, in order for this to be realized maintenance activities originating from a Maintenance Department must be put in place. Wales Factory is no stranger to such an activity since in the 70’s/80’s it had one of the best Preventative Maintenance Systems in Guyana and the Caribbean. In the mid 70’s, I was attached to study and transfer the system to Diamond Factory which at the time was not up to date. The Maintenance Department is concerned with the day to day problems of the factory and ensuring that the physical plant is in good op-

One two tons forklift, one blocks machine, one Leyland truck (scrap). Call: 617-9230; 269-1406

erating condition. The responsibility attached to the activity is one of making the necessary repairs to the plant, machinery and equipment involved in the production process; expeditiously and economically anticipating the need for these repairs and taking preventative action wherever possible; maintaining a group of skilled craftsmen capable of performing these duties; documenting the time during which the plant, machinery and equipment were unavailable for production and keeping records for the proper distribution of changes incurred in performance of the task by introducing a Data Base/ICT. An upgraded workshop is necessary at Wales since some of the machinery is outdated or worn-out. LBI machinery could be added or replaced, as well as other plants

and equipment transfer along with some training. Skilled and adequately skilled personnel for the workshop would be adequate since they would be ex-apprentices with experienced crafts-men and supervisors who “know” the factory. It is absolutely necessary for a regular systematic inspection be executed to the plant and equipment with regular feedback to the Maintenance Department which was always considered “the Engineering Laboratory”. In so doing, the department will ensure repairs take place before a break-down occurs with the required skilled personnel already on the ground. The Maintenance Department in collaboration with the rest of stores will ensure that minimum spares and materials be available at all times to

Complaint against rum shop in Dundee, Mahaicony

DEAR EDITOR, I am hereby making a complaint of a rum shop and barber shop in my village. This is so disturbing. I am living in Dundee Novar Primary School Rd. This rum shop (owner’s name supplied) is very noisy and disgusting. It is very unbearable. They even have pool tables. You should hear the behavior and indecent language. I sometime feel so ashamed when sitting with my teenage children. Just imagine my daughter will be writing

CXC and also one will be writing common entrance. Please tell me with the late hours of noise can these children study, can they concentrate? Another thing in front of the shop their son has a barber shop. A lot of gambling takes place and when these teenage girls passing by they will trouble with them. Please I beg of you to do something. I will think the barber shop needs to be removed and this shop needs closing time. I live happily in a peaceful environment. Concerned citizen

effect smooth repairs on weekends and “out-ofcrop”maintenance. The re-introduction of The Preventative Maintenance System at Wales Factory and other locations would take some time with assistance, guidance from qualified and experienced Plant Engineers but is bound to reap the true potential of factories like Wales. Neville Peters, MIPLantE, Tech(CEI) London.

One Toyota Hilux Surf Model KDKZN185W, please call 227-7538 or 226-8247 between 08:15hrs and 17:00hrs, Mon-Fri. Lovely Tibetan terrier pups for sale. Call: 696-7467 FOR SALE/FOR RENT American pool table – Call: 277-0578

Barbarians at...

From page 5 recognized Limacol...the freshness of the breeze in a bottle. Thanks to Guyana’s Honorary Consul Ram Ali for arranging these gifts. On the evening of February 23rd I, along with Joy Agness of the south Florida Guyanese Association had the honor of attending the Black Caucus meeting and the next day the Democratic Caucus meeting and the sitting of the Florida House of Representatives where we were introduced by Representative Edwin Narain, of Guyanese descent. His father, Rev. Narain led the Florida House in prayer prior to the debate. I later had the honor to speak at a press conference on behalf of the Caribbean American community. Rep. Hazelle Rogers, a Jamaican American, must be

congratulated for arranging yet another Caribbean Day at the Florida Capitol as should the other Caribbean American members of the Florida House and Senate. During my visit to Tallahassee I also was able to have informal one-on-one discussions with a number of elected officials some of whom had an interest in being updated on Guyana since they have Guyanese Americans in their constituencies. This is the kind of engagement that needs to be intensified. Our CARICOM Embassies and Consulates need to work closely with the Diaspora in a well coordinated and effective manner. If nothing else requires it at this time, the prospect of a President Donald Trump does. Wesley Kirton

4 Bedrooms with washroom & bath @ 138 Uitvlugt, Ocean View, W.C.D -$7.5M – Call: 664-9998; 609-0514 Two bedrooms concrete house, fully furnished, recently built, in Werk-enRust -$35M negotiable. Call: 645-6498 Joint Venture- commercially developed City Park/ excellent facility with swimming pool, snackette. Call: 602-1473; 680-0405 Newly built 3 bedrooms flat concrete property 22ftX48ft, land 50X90ft @ Vision Garden Versailles, W.B.D $11M. Call: 616-0111 Transported property @ 19 Good Hope Gardens, size: 24X61, concrete buildingall convenience, price $33M. Serious inquiries only-Call: 234-0046; 656-3525 Church and 2 storey building Lot 180 Charlotte Street Bourda-Call: 2276817; 624-7341 Transported property @ Grove $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 Property at Lot 173 Diamond Housing Scheme, E.B.D- 5 bedrooms; 2 storey- Call: 681-5790 Property @ 650 Section ‘A’ Block Great Diamond East Bank Demerara. Call: 2254792; 609-1114 Property @ prime location 18 Acres, suitable for house lots/farming @ Independence St. W.B.D, any reasonable offer accepted. Call: 6750506; 663-0753 House & land at Windsor Forest -$15M. Call: 642-6664 VEHICLE FOR SALE Toyota Raum, AT192, Fun Cargo, RAV 4, Tundra, LTouring Wagon, IST, 4X4 pick up sold DEF, (Ducati 1098cc) - Call: 644-5096; 6971453 ONE TOYOTA HILUX E/ CAB PICKUP M/T GASOLINE ENGINECALL: 676-0931

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Kaieteur News

Saturday February 27, 2016

Guyana now possesses technology Three Rivers to automatically track aircraft willing to help fund local medical care for children

How The Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast System works The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) has positioned itself to be transformed into an oversight body on par with those of its Caribbean counterparts. The National Assembly recently approved $430M for the continuation of the Automatic Dependent Surveil-

lance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Project and its institutional strengthening. The ADS-B is a cooperative surveillance technology in which an aircraft determines its position via satellite navigation and periodically broadcasts it, enabling it to be tracked. The information

broadcast is then received by air traffic control ground stations as a replacement for secondary radar. It can also be received by other aircraft which provide situational awareness and allows for selfseparation. Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, recently told the House, that on November 12, Guyana began using the ADS-B in the upper airspace. This, she indicated, was a milestone in air traffic management operations, and in the coming years it will be used in the middle and lower airspace. She added that fruit was borne from her participation in an International Civil Aviation Organisation World

Forum. “A draft project document to aid Guyana’s institutional strengthening of the Civil Aviation Safety oversight system was discussed with donor and lending agencies for consideration. Evolving from these discussions, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has committed CAD $80,000 for the Strengthening of the Civil Aviation Safety Oversight System in Guyana,” Minister Ferguson explained. Guyana will be brought on par with developed countries with the computerisation of the Personnel Testing and Licensing System which is currently being done manually. This move will further facilitate the institutional strengthening of the regulatory body and improve Guyana’s Compliance level with ICAO standards. Minister Ferguson also informed the House that two projects will be completed during 2016. These are the Economic Impact Study of Civil Aviation on the Economy and National Aviation Policy. “This study will determine the economic impact of air transport on Guyana’s economy. It will assist government, industry stakeholders and decision makers to better understand what the air transport sector contributes to the economy….and help the government to determine investment priorities and policy directives,” Minister Ferguson outlined. The completion of the National Aviation Policy will guide the development of the sector in an orderly and wellcoordinated manner.

Minister Norton and the representatives of the Three Rivers Kids Foundation. More support is likely to be forthcoming to local children in the area of medical conditions. This is based on discussions between The Three Rivers Kids Foundation, a Canada-based Charitable Organisation, and the Ministry of Public Health. The organisation is looking to increase the amount of support it offers to Guyanese children. President and Founder of the Foundation, Ms. Jeanette Singh, along with the Office Manager of the Guyana Office, Ms. Lita Gayadin, on Thursday met with Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton, for the first time to discuss the ways in which the organisation can collaborate with the Ministry. The Foundation is one which is dedicated to helping sick children in Guyana whose parents are too poor to afford medical care. They pay for the medical treatment

for children who need to be taken overseas. Singh, a registered nurse, expressed particular interest in assisting visually impaired children in Guyana, as well as those with Nephrotic Syndrome. The organisation, which has been registered as a Non Governmental Organization in Guyana since February 2008, has to date assisted approximately 150 children with medical conditions such as brain tumors and congenital heart conditions. The founder indicated that currently, the organisation only sends children to be treated in India, due to the quality and cost of health care there. However, the group is hoping to change this state of affairs and seek needed medical care right here. And the organisation has shared its willingness to finance the treatment of children right here once the facilities and expertise are available. This notion was welcomed by Minister Norton, who expressed gratitude to the organisation for the work it has been doing in Guyana. He assured them of his full support as they endeavor to help sick children to receive the medical treatment they need. The Three Rivers Kids Foundation will be sending four Guyanese children to India for much needed surgery in April of this year. Guyana has been getting support from the International Children’s Heart Foundation also known as the Baby Heart Foundation to care for children with various heart defects. With the support from the United States Foundation, children with congenital heart conditions are afforded an improved delivery of service including surgery and aftercare.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

Argentine judge summons former President for questioning in fraud probe (Reuters) - An Argentine judge has summoned former President Cristina Fernandez for questioning in a probe into the sale of dollar future contracts at below market rates by the central bank just months before she handed over power in December. Judge Claudio Bonadio also summoned Fernandez’s former economy minister, Axel Kicillof, and former central bank chief Alejandro Vanoli on suspicions of defrauding the public administration with the sale of $17 billion (£12.2 billion) of contracts. Bonadio summoned the former populist leader to appear for questioning on April 13 at 10 a.m. as the last of 13 suspects in the case. Under Fernandez, the cen-

tral bank routinely sold dollar futures to prop up the peso, partly in an attempt to anchor double-digit inflation in Latin America’s No. 3 economy. Two lawmakers last October filed a complaint alleging

that the price at which the contracts were sold constituted a serious financial loss for the state. During Vanoli’s short time at the helm, the bank was selling March contracts at 10.65 pesos per dollar when these contracts were trading at between 14 and 15 pesos on Wall Street. The peso is already trading at 15.47 per dollar. Vanoli has denied wrongdoing and said the bank’s interventions in the futures market were transparent and in line with exchange rates projected in the budget. Many Argentines want new President Mauricio Macri’s administration to investigate suspected irregularities and corruption under Fernandez’s government

The U.S. dollar jumped yesterday and Wall Street’s stock rally faded as fresh economic data kept alive Federal Reserve rate increases, while oil prices turned negative late in the session. Wall Street shares were little changed in afternoon trading, underperforming a 1.6-percent rise for Europe’s FTSEurofirst 300 stock index. European equities were fueled by strength in mining shares as industrial metals such as copper and aluminum gained. Treasury yields also rose after data showed U.S. consumer spending rose solidly in January and underlying inflation picked up by the most in four years. Earlier, a report showed U.S. gross domestic product growth was revised higher, to a 1.0 percent annual rate. With equity markets off to a weak start in 2016 amid concerns about an economic slowdown, investors have been watching the Fed’s next move after the central bank

raised rates in December. Federal funds futures implied traders see a 36-percent chance of the Fed raising rates in June and 53-percent chance in December, both above Thursday’s levels, according to CME Group’s FedWatch program. “This information today, while actually good for Main Street, is less than good for Wall Street that has become addicted to the Fed’s largesse,” said Mark Luschini, chief investment strategist at Janney Montgomery Scott in Philadelphia. The Dow Jones industrial average .DJI was down 51.05 points, or 0.31 percent, at 16,646.24, while the S&P 500 lost 2.91 points, or 0.15 percent, at 1,948.79. The Nasdaq Composite added 6.95 points, or 0.15 percent, at 4,589.16. European equities rallied for a second day to a threeweek high. MSCI’s gauge of global stock markets was up 0.1 percent. The index was set for its

biggest two-week percentage increase since October. With oil’s steep 1-1/2-year slide, equities’ performance has been tightly linked to the commodity’s daily fluctuations as investors say oil has been seen as a proxy for the health of the global economy. After an initial rally that pushed benchmark Brent crude prices to their highest level since early January, oil prices faded as players took profits on winning positions. U.S. crude settled down 0.9 percent at $32.78 a barrel, while Brent settled down 0.5 percent at $35.10 a barrel. Benchmark 10-year notes were last down 22/32 in price to yield 1.771 percent, up from 1.70 percent late Thursday. “We got some pretty surprising GDP data, an upward revision, and not too many people had pegged that,” said Thomas Simons, a money market economist at Jefferies LLC in New York.

Former President Cristina Fernandez

Dollar rises, backed by U.S. data; stock, oil rallies fade

Page 25

Woman, 80, survives plunge from Palms window Doctors at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation are monitoring the condition of 80-yearold Lyma Peters, who survived a plunge through a window of the Palms geri-

atric home. Peters, the patient, reportedly jumped through a second floor window of the institution some time yesterday morning. She sustained fractured

ribs and injury to her left leg. By l a t e y e s terday she was said t o b e c o n s c i o us. She was admitted to the hospital’s High Dependency Unit (HDU).

Slain bandit’s girlfriend held for helping accomplice escape The bandit who was shot dead by his own accomplice during Thursday night’s gas station robbery is notorious criminal, Jermaine Jerrick, who was part of a gang that had terrorized gold miners and shop owners at Aranka six years ago. He was also wanted for stabbing a policeman during a daring escape from the Cove and John Police Station in 2013. However, no wanted bulletin was issued for him despite his wounding the rank and subsequent escape. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said that Jerrick, 35, of Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara, was also part of a gang that was operating between the East Coast of Demerara and Berbice. Blanhum said that the bandit who shot Jerrick is known to the police. “We have vital information about him and we are working on it,” the Crime Chief said. Police have detained Jerrick’s girlfriend, after receiving information that she helped the accomplice to escape. Jerrick gained notoriety back in 2010, when police linked him to a gang that had carried out a spate of robberies at Aranka, Cuyuni. Jerrick also made the news in March 2011 when he severely wounded prison inmate, Randy Joseph, a former Buxton gang member, during a fracas in the Georgetown Prison compound when they were both on remand.

Slain bandit Jermaine Jerrick (dead fuel station bandit) Then in July, 2013, he escaped from the Cove and John Police Station, and stabbed Constable Elton Benjamin in the neck, when the rank tried to apprehend him. It took one of Jerrick’s own accomplices to bring his criminal career to an abrupt end. Around 19.30 hrs last Thrsday, Jerrick, armed with a knife, and his accomplice, who had a handgun, entered Arif ’s Service Station at Onderneeming, West Coast Berbice. Five employees, including three female pump attendants and a manager, were on duty. The bandits immediately went to one of the pump attendants and relieved her of about $80,000. But then they saw the manager, who was sitting at a desk and the bandit with the gun reportedly said “Oh, is that big man got the money.” The manager was reportedly about to press an alarm when both bandits rushed at him. It was then that Jerrick’s accomplice opened fire, shooting Jerrick in the head

and killing him instantly. Police said that the gunman then relieved a driver of a silver grey Toyota Allion, PTT 2704, and escaped. The vehicle was recovered at Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, some three villages away from the scene of the robbery. Fazlim Haniff, the service station proprietor, said that most of his employees were still too terrified to return to work yesterday. Mr. Haniff, who was not present when the attack occurred, confirmed that the robbery was recorded on security cameras at the facility. Back in September 2014, two masked robbers escaped with an undisclosed sum of money, two cellular phones, and two bags containing workers’ dinner after storming the same fuel station

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Saturday February 27, 2016

Al Qaeda in Syria calls for more fighting as deadline nears

Residents inspect damage after an airstrike on the rebel held al-Fardous neighbourhood of Aleppo, Syria February 18, 2016. (Reuters/Abdalrhman Ismail) (Reuters) - Syria’s branch of al Qaeda, one of its most powerful Islamist rebel groups, called for an escalation in fighting against the government and its allies, adding to the dangers facing an agreement to halt fighting set to start today. The government and rebel groups have agreed to take part in a U.S.-Russian “cessation of hostilities” accord that is due to begin at midnight (2200 GMT yesterday). Warring parties had been required to accept by noon. Under the measure, which has not been signed by the Syrian warring parties themselves and is less binding than a formal ceasefire, the government and its enemies are expected to stop shooting so aid can reach civilians and peace talks begin. The truce does not apply to jihadist groups such as Islamic State and the al Qaedalinked Nusra Front, and the Damascus government and its Russian allies say they will not halt combat against those militants. Other rebels seen as moderates by the West say they fear this will be used to justify attacks on them. The Nusra Front yesterday urged insurgent groups to intensify their attacks against President Bashar alAssad and his allies. Nusra’s leader, Abu Mohamad al-Golani, said in an audio message on Orient News TV that insurgents should “strengthen your resolve and intensify your strikes, and do not let their planes and great numbers (of troops) scare you”. Unlike Islamic State, which controls defined areas of territory in central and eastern Syria, the Nusra Front is widely dispersed in opposition-held areas in the west,

and any escalation would add to the risks of the truce collapsing. Nusra is bigger than nearly all the factions taking part in the cessation, with fighters across western Syria. As the deadline for the cessation of hostilities approached, heavy air strikes were reported to have hit rebel-held areas near Damascus while fighting raged across much of western Syria. The Syrian government has agreed to the cessation plan. The main opposition alliance, which has deep reservations, said it would accept it for two weeks but feared the government and its allies would use it to attack opposition factions under the pretext that they were terrorists. President Vladimir Putin said Russia had received information that all parties expected to take part in the cessation of hostilities had said they were ready to do so, Russian news agencies reported. Putin stressed that combat actions against Islamic State, the Nusra Front and other groups which the Syrian government regards as terrorists would continue. “I would like to express the hope that our American partners will also bear this in mind ... and that nobody will forget that there are other terrorist organizations apart from Islamic State,” he said in Moscow. BREATHING SPACE The United Nations hopes the pause in fighting will provide a breathing space to resume peace talks in Geneva, which collapsed this month before they began. A Russian Foreign Ministry official said the Geneva talks could resume on March 7. In New York, diplomats said the U.N. Security Council

would vote on Friday on a resolution endorsing the planned pause in fighting. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britishbased monitoring organization, on Friday reported at least 26 air raids and artillery shelling targeting the town of Douma in rebel-held Eastern Ghouta near Damascus. Rescue workers said five people were killed in Douma. Syrian military officials could not immediately be reached for comment. Eastern Ghouta is regularly targeted by the Syrian army and its allies. It is a stronghold of the Jaish al-Islam rebel group, which is represented in the main opposition alliance, the High Negotiations Committee. The area has been used as a launch pad for rocket and mortar attacks on Damascus.The HNC groups political and armed opponents of President Bashar al-Assad, and many groups fighting in northern and southern Syria have authorized it to negotiate on their behalf. The Observatory also reported artillery bombardment by government forces and air strikes overnight in Hama province, and artillery fire by government forces in Homs province. Fighting also resumed at dawn between rebels and government forces in the northwestern province of Latakia, where the Syrian army and its allies are trying to take back more territory from insurgents at the border with Turkey. A spokesman for President Tayyip Erdogan said Turkey has serious worries about the plan to halt violence in Syria because of the continued fighting on the ground.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

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Sunil Narine calls for investigation against TTCB officials over leaked email Cricbuzz - Sunil Narine is calling for the National League representatives (NLR) in Trinidad & Tobago to open an investigating into purported email’s sent out by the Trinidad & Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) officials that questioned his bowling action. “Whilst I have become frustrated of late and it remains harder and harder to keep faith, trust and confidence, when I see emails between Board members on valid and wellknown addresses to me and when the alleged authors of these emails deny they sent them I feel I deserve an explanation as to how they came in to existence,” said Narine in his press statement. “Who sent them? I also feel that if

indeed the emails were sent by the alleged authors then the ramifications for the TTCB as a credible organization are significant. Hence why I have called for an independent investigation.” The email that was allegedly sent from the account of Azim Bassarath, the TTCB President, and copied to other Board members on November 29 2015, the same day Narine was called for chucking in the Bangladesh Premier League. In it, board members are allegedly questioning the legitimacy of Narine’s action privately, despite Suruj Ragoonath, the TTCB Chief Executive, publicly saying that the organisation is fully supporting him. However the TTCB sent out a release on

February 20 category denying the email stating. “It recently brought to the attention of the president of the TTCB, Mr Azim Bassarath, of an e-mail letter being circulated in the local media purportedly emanating from him,” said the board. “Mr Bassarath wishes to totally disassociate himself from the alleged e-mail currently making the rounds and which is being pronounced upon to suggest that it is authentic. “The president of the TTCB reserves the right to seek legal recourse to clear his name should the alleged email be attributed to him in reports carried in the local media. Please be guided accordingly.” Speaking to Cricbuzz,

Saturday February 27, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Alienation may be the result of a misunderstanding. Try to ease any disappointment by making amends. Try not to get backed into corners. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Children might be on your mind. Don't hesitate to make special plans just for two. You might get behind if you spend too much time debating senseless issues. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) When the work is done, they may serve you for a change. Your diplomatic approach and rather outgoing nature will enhance your reputation and bring you the support you need. You will enjoy getting together with friends. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Direct your energy wisely. You would be wise to consider attending lectures that will broaden your awareness concerning your professional direction. Friends and relatives can give you good advice. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You will be able to work with fine detail today. If you can work at home, do so. Romance is likely if you participate in unusual forms of entertainment. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may win favors if you present your ideas and include your family. Proceed with caution if operating equipment or vehicles.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You may want to plan physical activities that will help burn off some of their excess energy. Refuse to let others make unrealistic demands of you. Your dramatic nature may be too much to handle. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Romance will unfold through business trips. Take your time and try not to overload yourself. Travel will promote new romantic encounters and additional cultural knowledge. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Catch up on overdue phone calls and correspondence. You should socialize with clients or upper echelons of your industry if possible. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) If you join intellectual or cultural groups, you should meet individuals who stimulate you. Don't make excuses. Try not to argue about trivial matters. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You may have a problem at work with a female coworker. Don't let them blame you. Relatives will not agree with the way you are dealing with your personal problems. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Take special care in any home improvement project you work on today, you'll be glad you did. Loss or theft may occur if you are careless with your belongings.

Eddie Tolchard, Narine’s agent from Sports Management Company Insignia Sports International, which also represents Kieron Pollard, Darren Sammy, Samuel Badree, Ravi Rampaul, Dwayne Smith and Kevon Cooper - elaborated further what is at stake in this investigation. “It’s fair to say that Sunil has had a bit of a rough time over the last few months but they are things he can handle and take on the chin,” he said. “Such as his action - he’s been working tirelessly over the past few months, taking the right advice and tuition and the funny thing is as a result of this he might be coming back as an even better bowler with more variation. So we take positives from it rather than be despondent. “And whilst he might feel a little let down with regards some recent goings on in Trinidad, he would have let things pass if the email ‘scandal’ hadn’t erupted. Sunil is concerned it may be swept under the carpet and nothing more heard about it. There are two ways of looking at it and neither are pretty for the TTCB.” Tolchard felt that the TTCB should be concerned about the security of important documents as Bassarath claimed he didn’t start the email. “If Azim Bassarath didn’t start the emails, as he has stated, then TTCB should be horrified that someone has hacked a TTCB executive’s account because who knows what private and confidential emails and documents have

Sunil Narine (Getty Images) been seen and copied,” he said. “That should be a major concern as no doubt more mischief will be forthcoming if that’s the case, with possibly leak after leak coming. “And that’s probably the prettiest result for the TTCB as the other possibility probably doesn’t need comment-

ing on. Sunil just wants it looked in to and the National League Representatives are confident of handling it competently and effectively.” Members of the NLR include former West Indies players Dinnanth Ramnarine and Daren Ganga. (Colin Benjamin)

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Saturday February 27, 2016

FIFA elects Swiss Infantino to lead it out of era of scandal (Reuters) Swiss soccer executive Gianni Infantino vowed on Friday to lead FIFA, the sport’s world governing body, out of years of corruption and scandal after being elected president to succeed Sepp Blatter. “We will restore the image of FIFA and the respect of FIFA, and everyone in the world will be proud of us,” the 45-year-old law graduate, for the last seven years general secretary of Europe’s governing body UEFA, told an extraordinary FIFA Congress in Zurich. After a close first round of voting in which he narrowly beat Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa of Bahrain, Infantino appeared to gather up all the votes that had been cast for the two trailing candidates, scoring a simple majority of 115 votes in the second round to Salman’s 88. Infantino owed his candidacy to the fact that Europe’s preferred candidate, his boss, UEFA president Michel Platini, was banned from football last year along with Blatter for ethics violations. He now inherits a very different job from that inhabited by his compatriot Blatter, who toured the world like a head of state for 17 years, dispensing development funds to his global support base. Before the election, the Congress had overwhelmingly passing a set of reforms intended to make it more transparent, professional and accountable. The package should mean that the new president will face much closer scrutiny than Blatter did, and have less

influence over the day-to-day management of the organisation’s business affairs. The reforms include term limits for top officials and disclosure of earnings, and a clear separation between an elected FIFA Council responsible for broad strategy and a professional general secretariat, akin to a company’s executive board, handling the business side. Much of Infantino’s pitch centred on his commercial acumen; during his seven years as general secretary, revenue from Europe’s club competitions has grown dramatically, but so has inequality between the rich, powerful elite clubs in Europe’s four big leagues and the rest. But many of the skills now required will be in crisis management. Criminal investigations in the United States and Switzerland have resulted in the indictment of dozens of soccer officials and other entities for corruption, many of them serving or former presidents of national or continental associations. In addition, FIFA has been forced to investigate controversies surrounding the awarding of its showpiece, the World Cup finals, especially the decision to grant the 2018 tournament to Russia and the 2022 finals to Qatar, a small, scorching desert state with little soccer tradition. Swiss authorities are reviewing more than 150 reports of suspicious financial activity linked to those awards, and said on Thursday they had sent more documents including an internal FIFA report to U.S. investigators.

Chelsea Edghill wins Regional Inter-Collegiate Title Guyana’s recently crowned National Women’s Table Tennis Champion and Lindenwood University scholarship recipient, Chelsea Edghill completed an impressive showing on the intercollegiate circuit, winning the Women’s Singles at the National Regional Division InterCollegiate Table Tennis Championships. The competition, which pits upper Midwest Division teams against lower Midwest Division teams, was played at the gymnasium of the University of Lindenwood, Missouri last weekend. Just off her recent success at the National Championships, Edghill defeated Maria Castillo of the University of Wisconsin in the finals 3-0 to avenge an earlier defeat

to Castillo in the group matches. In the group, seeded number one in group two, she lost to eventual finalist, Maria Castillo 3-2, defeated Furuta Mayuko 3-0, Andrea Hoppert 3-0 and Jinvi Humi 3-0 to emerge from the group to the quarterfinals. In the quarterfinals, she defeated Yan Dan and later went on to defeat Zhang Yixin in the semi-finals before beating Castillo in the final.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

PCL four-day cricket

Beaton’s career best rocks Volcanoes despite century stand between Smith & Robinson By Sean Devers in St Lucia In association with Tower Suites & Trophy Stall A lively late afternoon spell from Guyana Jaguars’ pacer Ronsford Beaton, who produced a career best 5-43, ripped out the Windwards Volcanoes’ lower order on day one of their eighth round PCL First-Class match at Beausejour yesterday. Despite half-centuries from the experienced Devon Smith and rookie Jerlani Robinson the Volcanoes slumped from 1361 to 216 all out after Tea. The 23-year-old Beaton bowled with good pace on a track with a tinge of grass and got support left-arm seamer Raymon Reifer (2-41). Smith stroked a confident 87 from 190 balls, 225 minutes with 11 fours and shared in a 120-run second wicket stand with Robinson whose 57 lasted 82 balls, 149 minutes with seven fours and a six, but only Sunil Ambris (19) and Skipper Liam Sebastien (13*) of the others got into double figures. By the close the Jaguars reached 44-2 still needing 173 runs to reach the Volcanoes total with Tagenarine Chanderpaul (20) and Assad Fudadin (1) at the crease. Rajendra Chandrika was trapped in front for 17 by Kyle Mayers at 34-1 and night watchman Devendra Bishoo was removed by Mervin Matthew for a duck three runs later as Volcanoes new ball attack erupted with a generous dose of short-pitched bowling. Earlier, Smith started in a watchful manner in sultry conditions before getting off the mark with a flowing off drive off of Joseph and followed it with an expansive extra cover drive for a second boundary in the over. Tyrone Theophile (1) batted for 40 minutes before an impetuous top-edge pull off Beaton was taken by Chanderpaul running back from short-leg as the Volcanoes lost their first wicket in the ninth over at 161. The left-handed Smith stroked Keon Joseph gloriously down the ground for four and majestically drove through cover for another boundary when Joseph was switched to the Northern end. The Berbician pacer was a part of the Guyanese attack which was slaughtered by Smith when he made his highest First-Class score of 212 in Grenada. Robinson, who made his debut against Guyana last year in Dominica, got going with a confident off-drive off left-arm seamer Reifer as Smith dominated the

partnership against disciplined bowling by the Jaguars. Robinson edged the lively Joseph, who tested him with a few short balls, to the vacant third man boundary before Smith reached his 51st fifty and 11th against Guyana from 95 balls, 108 minutes with seven fours. By Lunch the hosts were 68-1 with Smith on 50 and Robinson on 13 after Skipper Leon Johnson employed a four-prong seam attack for the entire first session. After the interval Robinson smashed Veerasammy Permaul sweetly to the cover boundary and then swept him for four off the next ball. He then hammered Beaton for consecutive boundaries as he looked very compact. Smith pulled Beaton for four, while Robinson danced into Permaul and dumped him down the ground for six. Robinson, who was dropped by Permaul at short cover off Fudadin with a full

blooded drive when on 13, reached his maiden fifty with a four off Reifer. His 50 lasted 146 minutes, 77 balls with eight fours and a six. The second wicket stand was broken when Robinson edged Reifer to Johnson at slip at 136-2 and St Lucian Dalton Polius joined the well entrenched Smith and together they carried the score 164 before Polius (9) was bowled by Bishoo. Smith was taken brilliantly at short leg by Chanderpaul off Permaul for 87 as the Volcanoes lost two wickets in the space of four runs to slip 168-4 and by Tea the Volcanoes had reached 173-4 with last round centurion Kavem Hodge and Sunil Ambris at the crease. After Tea the Volcanoes lost their remaining six wickets for just 43 runs as Beaton took four wickets including two in two balls, while Joseph and Reifer picked up the others. Today’s play will commence at 10:00hrs.

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GOA presents air ticket to Narayan Ramdhani

Garfield Wiltshire, Treasurer of the GOA, presenting the cheque to Narayan Ramdhani in the presence of GOA President Mr. Kalam Jumin-Yassin (3rd left), GOA’s Karen Pilgrim (right) and Taekwondo Association President Ramjeet Ramphal and Secretary. The Guyana Olympic Association presented an Airline ticket to World Ranked Player Narayan Ramdhani who will be attending the attending the 11 Peru Junior Under-19 International Championships 2016 in Lima March 8-11, 2016 along with Team Mate Jonathan Mangra. The Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) is very grateful for the assistance from the GOA to help move the sport to higher levels. The GBA is amazed that Guyana’s top athletes still have to struggle to gain sponsorship for top and world ranked athletes to date espe-

cially when the main factor is that the Golden Arrowhead flies in the International arenas. We do hope in the future that the entities responsible for sports and also the interested private sector can understand why it is necessary to be involved with Sports and the mileage it can give them. This Tournament will be the first of a series of international tournaments Guyana will be taking part in and the players will get Higher World Ranking Points. These two players just won the first local doubles tournament for the year at the

Gumdac Open Doubles last week and is not new in the international arena. They also medaled in the Caribbean Games last year in Singles & Doubles. They are currently in training for this Peru International where they are expected to do well in both the Boys Singles and Boys Doubles Events. The GBA would like to also than the Director of Sports, Mr. Christopher Jones and the NSC for their contribution, Mr. Wayne Kanhai of Yellow Mining and Mr. David Fernandes of Bounty Farms.

Baksh guides Herstelling B to victory A fine all-round performance by Buddan Baksh guided Herstelling B to a sixwicket victory over Silverbullet when the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association 50-over tournament continued recently. Baksh grabbed 5-41 to help bowl out Silverbullet for 99 in 24.3 overs, batting first at Farm. Melroy Homes made 38 and Abdel Bacchus 17; Totoram Bishun supported Baksh with 3-7. Baksh then struck 52 as Herstelling B responded with 101-4 in 12.4 overs. Bishun made 17; Collin Benjamin took 3-21. At Laluni, Combined United edged the host by one run. Batting first, the visitors scored 124 all out. Jermain Ramroop got 30, Shawn Pooran 21 and Saddiq Mohamed 20; R. Shuman snared 4-22, Alex Dundas 311 and A. Williams 3-33. Laluni replied with 123 all out in 24

overs. T. Persaud made 25, Dundas 18 and A. Mohabir 17. Asif Shafeek captured 430, Ramroop 3-20 and Ravindra Sarbjeet 3-25. The competition contin-

ues today with Laluni hosting Farm and tomorrow Silverbullet will play Eccles at Farm and Providence will take on Herstelling A at Laluni. Matches start at 09:03 hrs.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday February 27, 2016

LABA /104.3 FM Radio Mash Basketball UG to lock horns with Caribs for top position in GTT/GRFU fifteens league final at MSC hard court tonight Bulls face challenge of Raiders for top spot, Royals battle Jets for third Tonight’s epic tussle for the inaugural Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) organised 104.3 Power FM Radio majority sponsored MASH Open basketball championship could be pulsating depending on the readiness for the Retrieve Raiders to stop the rampaging Half Mile Bulls when they clash, not only for another title but also the top seeding in Linden, ahead of the ‘Road To Mecca’ National Club Championship. The Bulls already are listed as the number one ranked club in Linden, but with the championship about to bounce off next Friday, the Raiders are in a position to nudge ahead and entre the National Club Championship with the top seeding based on this final’s result. The Bulls enter with the top ranking but the LABA in 2012 implemented a points’ format where after each tournament the seeding may change based on the results, thus giving a better understanding of the ranking of cubs during the year. So the games tonight, starting with the third place playoff between the Victory Valley Royals and Amelia’s Ward Jets at 9.00pm, are more than a 104.3 Power FM MASH final, but one that brings into question who has the top rankings also and the Bulls, however, must start as favourites against the Raiders.

Neil Marks

Dwayne Roberts

They are on seven points having won the last Malta Supreme Open basketball championship after beating Raiders in that final and the Raiders had to settle for second place with five points. A win therefore by the Raiders should push them ahead of the Bulls but the final scores can also become a factor according to a source with LABA. Therefore, it could be a ding-dong affair if Raiders led by their all-round power forward Dwayne ‘Brown Sugar ‘ Roberts and ably assisted by the likes of former shooting national forward Neil Marks and current national playmaking guard Keon ‘Buktor’ Cameron and the busy-body off guard Alexander Rose. They will call upon the experienced former national back court duo of Abdulla Hamid and Marvin

Hartman also to help them plot a way of beating this running Bulls side and Marks must realise that his efforts are key to any success the Raiders have of toppling Bulls tonight. At the same time it has been no easy task keeping up with this Bulls side which have the back court players being called for national duties recently and have shown they can play great basketball. These players in shooting guard Terron Welch, the dangerous roving guard Michael Turner and the cool but collective guard Dennis Niles all on a upward curve after being outstanding junior national players who have graduated to the senior level. Their inside game is hinged around another firmer junior national standout in power forward Travin ‘Babylon’ Dryden who in tandem with captain Kevin Easton were able to put a brake on Roberts’ scoring and brilliance in the last final where the Bulls ran out winners. At the same time Shane Lewis and others must shoulder the work in the paint where Roberts is the biggest threat. They know that the back court is very capable of delivering as they have proven in recent times. The battle in the first game is also of interest where the third place game will determine the rankings below the number one and two clubs and the Jets having gifted that third place position to the Bulls after forfeiting their semifinal game against Raiders in the last tournament would want to correct that by beating the Royals and be the number three ranked side in Linden. All in all it would be a night of truly gripping basketball with the winning prize going to the winner of the final and the large winner’s trophy.

UG Wolves would be looking to take a commanding lead when they face Yamaha Caribs in the GRFU 15’s League today. UG are leading the tournament with 17 points, while Caribs are in second position on 14 points. When the two teams meets in the first round of the league, Yamaha Caribs got the upper hand over UG wolves. UG head the points table following outstanding performance over Police Falcons

when they defeated them 990 in the league last Saturday, while Pepsi Hornets when down to Yamaha Caribs 14-12. Games would be played at the National Park Rugby Field starting at 4:00pm. The GRFU 15’s first division league is sponsored by Telephone giant, GTT. ANNUALGENERAL MEETING: Meanwhile, under new Amended Constitution Governing over rugby, the Guyana

Rugby Union would be holding its Annual General Meeting tomorrow Sunday February 28th 2016. The meeting would see election of new officer bearers for the Union along with other matters. The AGM would be held at the National Resource Center in Woolford Avenue from 11am.Clubs eligible to vote at the AGM are Yamaha Caribs, Pepsi Hornets, GDF, UG Wolves, and the Police Falcons.

New York Business Group sponsors Berbice two-day U19 tourney in Berbice The New York Business Group (NYBG) comprising of five businessmen along with the Berbice Cricket Board and the Albion Sports Complex Executive committee recently launched the Berbice under19 two-day cricket tournament 2016. The ceremony was held at the Albion Sports Complex with attendance from players, representatives from the various clubs, former cricketers and coaches. The group which consists of Ajit Mootoo, Bhola Ramsundar, Hafeez Ali, Dave Narine, Insaf Ali, Jameel Mohamed and Ralph Tamesh has donated in the excess of Seven Hundred thousand Guyana dollars towards what is expected to be the biggest age-group cricket tournament in the ancient county. Many speakers thanked the NYBG for their financial

support and also for promoting the young talents in the area since there is no current U19 cricket competition. Among them was Mr Shiv Persaud Manager of the Albion/Port Mourant Sugar Factory, Regional Chairman Region number 6, Mr. David Armogan, Guyana Cricket Board Secretary Mr. Anand Sanasie, Berbice Cricket Board Chairman Mr. Anil Beharry, Mr Imtiaz Baccus President of the Albion Sports Complex and the Committee members of the NYBG. They all welcomed the initiative and spoke about the role youths have to play in representing their clubs, county, country and the West Indies. Some twenty eight teams have signaled their interest and the BCB has assigned Mr Carl Moore to head the committee for the

cricket operation. The competition will commence in March and conclude in September. The primary aim is to prepare the players for the longer version of the game. Speaking on behalf of the New York Business Group, Mr Ralph Tamesh, who is also President of the Indo-Caribbean Federation a New York based Cultural and Humanitarian organization said, “We are here to promote the young players but not as T20 players, we want to see the true talent of these players, we want to prepare them for the four day and five day game where they could apply themselves and become mentally tough cricketers.” The NYBG was very receptive to the idea of making the tournament a national tournament in the future.

GFSCA host 10/10 Knockout Softball Tournament tomorrow The Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association will be hosting a 10 Over Softball Knockout One Day Tournament at the Carifesta Sports Complex tomorrow to aid the teams with much needed preparation for their

trip to Florida, USA for the tournament over there in March. The tournament will be for players 40 years and over and the entrance fee is $10,000. The winning team will collect $35,000 + Trophy. The second

place team $15,000 + Trophy and the third place team - One Case Stag Beer. The first eight teams will be accepted and the actions starts 10:00AM. For further information call Wayne Jones on 650-1790.

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 33

GCB/Digicel/Banks DIHNSSCL Inter Schools Finals...

Chase Academy crowned Champion

The victorious Chase Academy team with the sponsors and GCB Officials. Chase Academy defeated Uitvlugt Secondary in the final of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) National Secondary School Cricket League (NSSCL) InterSchools sponsored by Banks DIH Ltd Coco Cola and Rainforest Water along with Digicel. Playing at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, both teams came into the competition on a high, hav in g emerg ed champions of their respective country Districts, Chase Academy for the Georgetown to Corentyne

District, and Uitvlugt for the Upper Demerara to Essequibo Coast District. Going into yesterdays’ finals, a lot was expected of both teams, since they both possessed players o f q u a l i t y a n d experience. However, Chase academy was deemed to be star studded, while Uitvlugt Secondary School was dubbed to be the more team oriented team. It was truly a match, befitting a final, as Uitvlugt won the toss and elected to field. Initially, it appeared a

great decision, as Uitvlugt fast bowler Reaz Khan send back two of Chase Academy batsmen to the pavilion in the early stages of their innings. The Uitvlugt bowlers continued to place enormous among of pressure on the batsmen, making the scoring difficult for them. Nevertheless, it was the heroics of batsman Joshua Persaud, with a classy knock of 104 that was instrumental in turning the tide around for Chase Academy. At the end of their

innings, it was that Joshua Persaud’s definitive knock that pulled Chase Academy out of their early troubles and placed them in a highly competitive position of 199/9 from their allotted 30 overs. Bowling for Uitvlugt Secondary School, Dodi Oslemo grabbed 4/28, and Reaz Khan 3/28. In reply, Chanderpaul Mohabir topped score with a brilliant 76 which caused much concern for the Chase Academy camp. Uitvlugt Secondary School did a fantastic job of chasing the

New Amsterdam Warriors ready for Mecca battle

By Edison Jefford New Amsterdam Warriors have declared that the team is ready for battle in the upcoming National Basketball Championships: The Road to Mecca III, shrugging off any underdog tag ahead of what can be described as its biggest challenge in the sport. Ranked 13th in the tournament, the Berbicebased team is optimistic that they will be able to move into the Super Eight after next weekend. “We are not coming to just participate. We are coming to do our utmost best,” Warriors Coach, Kirk Fraser told Kaieteur Sport. He said that competing against the best teams in Guyana is never an easy

Carlos Crandon assignment, but gave all assurance that his side will be competitive. “I have a reasonably good team. We are anticipating a good outing in Georgetown for Mecca III,” Fraser added. He informed that he has brought back guard, Carlos Crandon to add some experience to his team. In addition, he mentioned Jarrell Alleyne, Kevin Thom and an U-19 guard that he will be pushing up to the next level. Fraser said he is working with a genuine centre, Marvin Chester to establish a real presence in the middle. “These are the persons

Kirk Fraser we are looking toward to produce for us. We have an U-19 youngster, who is a very good three-point shooter and we have a real ‘big man’ so ‘Sugar ’ (Dwayne Roberts) will not be getting anything easy in the paint,” Fraser told this newspaper. The Coach was alluding to their opening round clash against Retreive Raiders, sizing up what he rightly perceived to be their biggest threat in that game. New Amsterdam Warriors is one of two Berbice teams that will compete in the National Championships. The first Round-of-16 in

Marvin Chester the tournament will be held on March 4, 5 and 6 while the Quarterfinals or Super Eight bounces off on March 11 and 12 before the semifinal or Final Four on March 13; the Grand Final will be held on March 19 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. The top four teams will receive cash prizes: $500,000; $250,000; $150,000 and $100,000 for the teams placing first to fourth along with trophies. There will also be individual prizes for the M o s t Va l u a b l e P l a y e r (MVP) of the tournament and finals.

Joshua Persaud receiving his MOM trophy from Clive Pellew, brand manager of Rainforest Water.

runs set by Chase Academy, and seemed somewhat in control, as the Georgetown Chase Academy players seemed to be spelled bound by the skill prowess of the We s t D e m e r a r a b o y s . Uitvlugt Secondary seemed to have their mental capacities more fixed on achieving their goals. On the c o n t r a r y, t h e C h a s e Academy players appeared to be self-inflicting themselves as catches went a begging, misfields coupled by the receipt of glorious stroke play by the Uitvlugt batsmen. However, in the end, Chase Academy players regrouped and held their nerves to defeat Uitvlugt secondary school, they were bowled out 181 off 29. 3overs. Bowling for Chase Academy Lester Cupidor took 3/13, Dwayne Dick 2/26, and Joshua Persaud 2/40, to crown Chase Academy the 2015/2016 GCB/ Banks DIH LTD/ Digicel NSSCL (Inter Schools’) Champion. Joshua Persaud was adjudged Man-of-the-match for his excellent all-round efforts. The match was watched by a number of spectators, giving semblance to a rebirth

of spectator support for cricket, as scores of individuals of all ages cheered the day’s exciting and enthralling activities. Representatives of both sponsors were on hand to witness and present prizes to the fitting recipients. Noticeable representatives from Banks DIH LTD, were Errol Nelson (brand manager for Coco Cola), Clive Pellew (brand manager Rain Forest waters), and Representative Romes h P e r s a u d . Digicel representatives included, Vidia Sanichara (Public relations manager) and Louanna Abrams (senior sponsorship and events executive). The GCB representatives at the presentation ceremony were Secretary, Anand Sanasie and Territorial development Officer, Colin Stuart. With this victory, Chase Academy have earned the right to play in the 2016 Sir Garfield Sobers Tournament in Barbados. The GCB/ Banks DIH LT D / D i g i c e l N S S C L (Combine Elite) Finals will be played Thursday March 3, 2016 from 09;30 at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday February 27, 2016

Ithaca Hardliners tame New Amsterdam Warriors in come from behind upset win Ithaca Hardliners made full use of home court advantage as they fought hard for a come from behind upset win against top team New Amsterdam Warriors when play in the Third Edition of the annual Anamayah Memorial Basketball competition continue on Sunday last at the Ithaca basketball court, West Bank Berbice. In a hard fought e n c o u n t e r, t h e N e w Amsterdam Warriors started quickly as if out to war, but the Hardliners kept bouncing back as they closed the gap to end the first segment 9-7. The Warriors upped their

game in the second segment and were able to out play their opponents to lead 20-14 at the half time mark. With the much needed half time rest and home crowd support behind them the Hardliners began to fight back and were able to close the gap to trail by two points 43-41 at the third segment. The final quarter saw the Hardliners forge forward to take the lead for the first time with better coordination and frequent raids as they squeezed home 50-48. The Hardliners fight back was led by Kevin Perry with 16, Kester Sinclair 14

and Phillip Edwards 9. For the Warriors Kevin Thom led their effort with 16 baskets as Quesy Mickle netted 14 and Shamar Murray 7. The competition is set to continue tomorrow with Rose Hall Town taking on RHT Jammers from 16:00 hrs at the Rose Hall Town Court. The tournament is being played on a round robin basis with the top two teams in each group advancing to the semifinal round. The teams scheduled to play in the eight team competition are -Group ‘A’: Rose Hall Town Jammers, Fyrish Black Sharks, East Canje

Action in the Ithaca Hardliners versus New Amsterdam Warriors clash in the Anamayah Memorial Basketball competition last Sunday. Knights and Rose Hall Town. Group ‘B’ has New A m s t e r d a m Wa r r i o r s ,

DCB/RSI Over40 20/20 Competition...

Bears, Tigers, Mavericks, Lions victorious ...Chanderpaul, Hiralal slamm centuries G e o rg e t o w n B e a r s , Upper East Coast Tigers, West Demerara Mavericks and Lower East Bank Lions registered victories in the opening round of the DCB/RSI Over40 20/20 Competition yesterday across Demerara. Bears captain, Surendra Hiralal, lit up the small DCC ground with a flurry of shots in a match winning unbeaten century (101), decorated with ten boundaries and four handsome sixes. Also enjoying the party was Ron Ramnauth who hammered a quick 57 which included ten fours. Bears finished on 220/3 off their 20 overs. Radesh Persaud had some success with the ball, capturing 2/25 off three overs. In reply, West Coast Demerara Seals lost early wickets and kept losing wickets at crucial times. They eventually folded for 171 in the 16th over. M. Saffee gave his team hope towards the end with a blistering 72; he smashed the balls out and around DCC for seven maximums and six fours. The destroyers with the ball were Mark Farreira with 2/9, Cladius Gibson with 2/18 and Ron Ramnath with 2/19. At Lusignan ground, the match started late and was reduced to 16 overs per side. Lions took first strike and cricket superstar, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, banged 141 to see his team to 207/1 in their 20 overs. Also among the

Smithfield Rockers, Ithaca Hardliners and Hopetown Stealers. At stake in the competition are cash and other incentives for the winning and runner-up teams and outstanding players. The competition is expected to continue on

Sunday when Ithaca Hardliners and Hopetown Stealers clash at the Ithaca basketball court, West Bank Berbice. The tournament is being organised by sport enthusiast Vibert Garnett. Jammers are the defending champions. (Samuel Whyte)

GISE, Star Party Rentals & Trophy Stall first division…

MSC hands UG 7-wicket defeat, Everest take first innings from TSC

RSI Brokers representative handing over the man-of-the-match trophy to Surendra Hiralal . runs was Sahadeo Hardeo who scored 54. Lower East Coast Bulls never threatened the target; they finished on 141/4 when their overs expired. Arthur Duke top-scored with 60, while Nirmaldeo Sarwan contributed 32. Sharing the wickets were Jai Singh (1/20), Shivnarine Chanderpaul (1/9), and Johnny Azeez (1/11). At Farm ground, West Demerara Mavericks humbled Upper East Bank Colts by seven wickets. Colts won the toss, elected to bat and only managed 114/6 in their allotted overs.

Captain Rohan Sarjoo topscored with an unbeaten 45, while Ganesh Persaud grabbed 2/17 off three overs. In reply, Mavericks reached the target in 11.4 overs with Sham Persaud and Eon Williams scoring 48 not out and 37 respectively. Colts best bowler was David Mohamed (2/8). Tigers cruised to an eight-wicket victory over Georgetown Buffaloes at the Enterprise ground. The visitors batted first and reached 148/5 in 20 overs. Lenny Massiah and Steven Alves led the way with 34 and 24 respectively.

Bowling for Tigers, Chatterpaul Singh and Basheer Khan accounted for two wickets each. Tigers took only 14.4 overs to knock off the required runs. Latchman Yadram (53 not out) and Mustaq Shah (51) were the main scorers. The competition continues next Friday, March 4, 2016. Colts will clash with Buffaloes at Everest ground, Tigers will meet Seals at Wales ground, Bears will take on Bulls at Ogle ground, and Lions will square off with Mavericks at Farm ground.

Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) defeated the University of Guyana (UG) by seven wickets while Everest CC grabbed first innings points from Transport SC when the latest round of matches in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/GISE, Star Party Rentals, Trophy Stall first division two-day cricket concluded on Sunday. At MSC, UG batted first and were bowled out for 113 with Mahendra Persaud scoring 23 and Darnell Douglas 21; leg spinner Steven Sankar snared 4-32 and Steven Jacobs 2-23. MSC responded with 202 all out. Orin Forde scored 47, Mark Watkins 42, Jacobs 29 and Anthony Ifill 22. Left-arm spinner Damein Vantull bagged 680 while off-spinner Dennis Haywood claimed 3-64. Trailing by 89, UG managed 200 all out, batting a second time. Leon Williams slammed 51 and Dwayne Dodson 31; Sankar claimed 5-56 to end with match figures of 9-88. Needing 112 to win, MSC

achieved victory in 14.1 overs with Jacobs scoring 44 not out while Ifill got 37 and Watkins 22. Vantull took two wickets. At Eve Leary, Everest batted first and posted 240. Chander p a u l H e m r a j struck 88 while Dwayne Adams made 51; Kevin Ross and Shawn Massiah had three wickets each. TSC were bowled out for 185 in response with Charwayne McPherson scoring 49 and Shemroy Kendall 22; Saheed Mohamed claimed 3-32 and Troy Gonsalves 3-71 and Javed Rasheed 2-33. Everest declared on 254-6 in their second turn at the crease. Mohamed slammed 98, while Shivnarine Chanderpaul got 48 and Gonsalves 47. Ross picked up 4-48. Set 310 for victory TSC were 15-1 when play was halted due to rain. The competition continues today with DCC hosting UG (Cyril Garnath and Clyde Layne) and Everest entertaining GDF (Javed Persaud and Shannon Crawford).

Saturday February 27, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 35

GBBC ‘Hostile Territory’ Boxing Extravaganza

Whether by bus or car; all roads lead to the Giftland Shopping Mall By Michael Benjamin Come by bus or car Come from near or far come along one and all All roads lead to the Giftland Shopping Mall When Clive Atwell and Dexter Gonsalves squared off at the Giftland Shopping Mall in October last year for the vacant WBC FECARBOX lightweight title, the promoters were confident that patrons would come out in their numbers, not necessarily to render support, but to enjoy one of the better boxing matches for a long time in Guyana. The naysayers doubted that the change of venue, as against the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall and the Princess

Dexter ‘The Kid’ Marques

Elton ‘The Bully’ Dharry

Freddy Beleno

Felix Machado

Hotel, would have impacted on the crowd attendance. It turned out that those analysts were wrong and boxing buffs flocked the venue and got their money’s worth in a fight that is still the talking point among pundits. Heartened by such a

magnificent response, the organizers of the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) have upheld the tempo and tonight an even bigger crowd is anticipated when two of the nation’s most exciting fighters take to the ring against Spanish foes

out of neighbouring Venezuela. Spanish fighters have always turned in top performances whenever they visit these shores. One would immediately remember Luis Resto who engaged the late Mark Harris in a fight that the Guyanese was winning right up to the 7th round when he made a silly tactical error and was clipped by a Resto left hook. Then there was the late, world rated pugilist, Patrick Forde who fought Cecil Fernandes in December 1979. The Spanish fighter was game and fought to the bitter end but just could not quell Forde’s enthusiasm and lost by knockout in the 10th round. It was the most unfortunate incident since Fernandes subsequently lapsed into a coma and died while being medevac’d to the USA for treatment. Then there was the Patrick Forde/Diego Alcala thriller, in September 1978, where Forde and the Panamanian fought a brutal battle right down to the wire with the Guyanese coming out triumphant in the final of the ten rounds when the referee halted the contest. In April 1985, Patrick’s nephew, Darius, squared off with Juan Bautista from Santo Domingo and though Forde eventually won the bout unanimously, no one

could forget the keen contest that erupted in mid ring. Indeed the die-hard pundits could reel off the names of those Spanish fighters that have institutionalized the action packed and competitive bouts of yesteryear. Michael Reid against Sergio Alvarez and Kenny Bristol against Angel Jose Ortiz are two of the fights that jut out. Tonight, that tradition will continue when Dexter ‘The Kid’ Marques and Elton ‘The Bully’ Dharry square off with Freddy Beleno and Felix Machado respectively, two Spanish fighters that have made their mark in the boxing arena. Machado is a former world champion who knows the ropes, while Dharry is an aspiring world champion and hungry for the accolade. The Guyanese champion is very gifted and could box or fight, whichever the situation requires. However, Beleno has ‘been there and done that’ and could spring a few surprises especially if Dharry allows complacency to step in. They say in boxing, the fight is not finished until the final bell rings or the referee waves it off. Fans will do well to wait on either of those two occurrences before jumping to conclusions. The Marques/Beleno

Milo action resumes today and tomorrow

Part of the action in one of the matches in this year’s competition. With the Mashramani celebrations out of the way, schools participating in the Annual Milo Under-20 Schools Football Competition could now refocus their energies on battling each other for top honours when play resumes today with three games, at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue.

In the opening fixture, Carmel square off against Christ Church at 12:30 hrs, before School of Nations tackle South Ruimveldt from 14:00 hrs. In the final game of the day, Bishop’s High take on Central High. Action in the competition continues tomorrow with four matches planned at the

same venue. Former champions St. G e o rg e ’s c o l l i d e w i t h Tutorial from 11:00 hrs, before Queenstown and St. John’s battle each other at 12:30 hrs. This encounter will precede the clash between Charlestown and Freeburg, before Mae’s engage St. Rose in the final game of the day.

The fixtures for the two days are seen below: 12:30 hrs 14:00 hrs

Carmel Secondary School v/s Christ Church Secondary School of the Nation Secondary v/s South Ruimveldt Secondary

15:30 hrs 2/28/2016 11:00 hrs 12:30 hrs 14:00 hrs 15:30 hrs

Bishop’s High School v/s Central High School Round 4 Day 4 St. George’s Secondary v/s Tutorial Secondary Queenstown Secondary v/s St John’s College Charlestown Secondary v/s Freeburg Secondary Mae’s Secondary v/s St Rose’s Secondary

bout should be a good tester for the Guyanese who has not fought since defeating Jamaican Rudolph Hedge in April 2014 and might be a bit ring rusty. His opponent’s last bout occurred in November last year, a mere three months ago and he (Beleno) might just feel he may have the edge over Marques. Notwithstanding, fights are won and lost on the night in question and both boxers would want to come out slugging tonight to draw first blood. This should make for an interesting affair that could have the crowd on its feet for all ten rounds. Should Dharry and Marques win tonight’s bouts they will fight for Commonwealth titles against English fighters tentatively set for May 21. Several other fights should act as the ‘warmer in the bank’ and fans would want to be there from the first gong to witness the action. Imran Khan will battle Quincy Gomes over 6 rounds in a lightweight affair while Barbadian, Miguel Antoine, tackles Barbados based Guyanese, Revlon Lake in a return welterweight fight over 8 rounds. The card opener will see Mandessa Moses matching gloves with Ansilla Norville over 4 rounds. Admission is $5,000 for a ringside seat, while general seating costs $2,000 and a lucky patron will win a 50"Smart Led TV after a special draw during the card. Patrons are therefore advised to retain their stubs. The first punch would be thrown at 20:00hrs sharp. Co m e b i g , c o m e along small All roads lead to the Giftland Shopping Mall.

t r o Sp

FIFA elects Swiss Chelsea Edghill wins Infantino to lead it Regional Inter-Collegiate Title out of era of scandal Chelsea Edghill

FIFA presidential candidate Gianni Infantino of Italy and Switzerland makes a speech during the Extraordinary Congress in Zurich, Switzerland February 26, 2016. (Reuters/Arnd Wiegmann)

PCL four-day cricket

Beaton’s career best rocks Volcanoes despite century stand between Smith & Robinson Jerlani Robinson gathers runs during his half-century in St Lucia yesterday.

GBBC ‘Hostile Whether by bus or car; all roads Territory’ Boxing lead to the Giftland Shopping Mall Extravaganza Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210