Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
Where your views make the news
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Letters... Where your views make the news
GuySuCo cannot cover its operating costs DEAR EDITOR, It is most tragic that GuySuCo has found itself in such a difficult position again at the end of 2014, where it is no closer to covering its operating costs. Twelve months have passed and the industry remains stuck in time, as the fundamental of the
Guyana with a price tag of some G$47 billion so far and the cost seems to be mounting every single day. In addition to this core cost, the people had to “dish-out” some G$18 billion since 2008 to support the industry, principally as a result of the under-performance of this
Trucking a couple hundred of sugar workers to Parliament to protest for a continuation of this failed PPP strategy is just absurd. For how long will the PPP continue to pour good money into a project without being transparent with the people and revealing to them the
muddle remains unsolved – namely the Skeldon Sugar Factory. The Skeldon Factory was positioned to be that state-ofthe-art facility designed to reduce the cost of production and increase sugar production. Since it started production in 2008, it has contributed to neither of these noble objectives, compared to the performance of the old colonial sugar factory that was disbanded. Today, GuySuCo is producing sugar at more than US$0.32 per pound when the world market price floats between US$0.15 –US$0.18 per pound. (See chart) Even with slightly better prices available to GuySuCo, the business is still selling a product that is making an average loss of US$0.10 per pound, which the taxpayers will again be called upon to fund. The arithmetic clearly points to GuySuCo asking the Treasury in 2015 for a further G$7 billion. The Skeldon Factory has burdened the people of
Skeldon Factory. With this additional G$7 billion “bailout” expected in 2015, the total financial support to this failed Jagdeo project will tally at some G$72 billion by June 2015. To what end? Has the unit cost of production reduced? Certainly not! With respect to GuySuCo, I am again suggesting that we frame the problem within the context of the profit and loss statement per estate and take decisive action on what those numbers instruct. If we cannot make hard decisions on the cost then clearly we are just kicking the “bucket with the hole” down the road and not mending it.
facts and a strategy on how they will end this drain on the Treasury? Whatever happened to the Booker-Tate plan to produce raw sugar in Guyana at US$0.15 per pound? It might be a good base document to revisit. Sase Singh
GuySuCo Management is committing the worst kind of deception and public trickery DEAR EDITOR, One of the clear signals of how private sector businesses respond to falling product prices is to decrease production or close operations in order to minimize losses. For example, inefficient operations, especially those with high per unit operating costs above market prices, go out of business, as sustaining losses are not part of an effective business strategy. This is what most of the CARICOM sugar producers have done and we have seen similar adjustments by gold producers in Guyana. Specifically, the fall in the price of gold has seen output and the number of gold mining operations decline as marginal gold mining producers exit the business. Also, input and credit suppliers scale down their operations, while employment opportunities contract below seasonal adjustment levels. In other cases, some producers through their representative organizations ask for tax concessions and access to higher yielding deposits in order to mitigate the shocks to the system. This is all part of normal business practice in a challenging environment. In contrast, this cannot be said of Guyana sugar production, where export sugar prices have declined significantly and preferential market access have scheduled termination dates.
In spite of these known conditions, GuySuCo Management has been in denial about the impending outcome, given the tacit political support of the PPP/ C Government and the unending claim on tax payer money that is constantly used to bail out an unprofitable political enclave. For example, the frequent downgrade of production targets by GuySuCo Management in the production cycle, followed by the same Management team gleefully reporting above target level production achievements is the worst kind of deception and public trickery. This is a continuous tragedy that is visited on Guyanese every production cycle and it must be stopped. In addition, the reported statement by Dr. Raj Singh (CEO GuySuCo) is instructive of the current conditions. Dr. Singh is quoted in a Kaieteur News article of 30-12-2014, ‘that there is still much to be done to ensure that the Corporation returns to profitability, (recognizing) … that the performance of the industry was encouraging and that most of the key performance indicators were achieved.’ This statement is symptomatic of the contradiction in sugar, for the
key indicators were not provided; and without the reporting of the financial and productivity data, no real objective analysis of the operations can be made. In this regard, Mr. Tony Vieira (SN, 12-31-2014) asked the most important question about the productivity measure: How many tonnes of sugarcane (TC) are required to make one ton of sugar (TS)? The answer to this question presents an indicator of the efficiency level in sugar production as well as it presents a critical marker for measuring the average cost of production, relative to the price of sugar. Consequently, reporting higher production numbers as Dr. Raj Singh did without revealing the TC/TS is only building false hope of positive changes that will lead to financial viability. I would therefore conclude that the approach in GuySuCo is unbecoming of a government entity that has a nontransparent, unaccountable, and an endless draw on tax payer money. Wake up Guyana, stop the bleeding! C. Kenrick Hunte
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Kaieteur News
69 murder cases heard in 2014 Sixty-nine cases of murder, three cases of manslaughter, 14 for rape, four cases of rape of a child under 16, and six for carnal knowledge of girl under 15, were among the 103 cases that were heard by the Courts in 2014. All told 140 cases were disposed of. According to a release for the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), there were 30 convictions, 54 acquittals, ten hung jury trials, one quashed committal and two aborted trials. The release also stated that there were two cases for the offence of wounding with intent, one case of unlawful wounding, three for robbery under arms, two attempt to commit murder, one for felonious wounding, four for buggery, one of causing grievous bodily harm, one for assault causing actual bodily harm, three of incest, one for the offence of sexual activity with a child family member, two of indecent assault and one case for attempt to commit a felony. There were 30 convictions, 54 acquittals, 10 hung jury, one quashed committal, and two aborted trials. One unrepresented
accused was sent back to prison after he indicated that he needed five years to prepare his defence. Then there was a case in which one accused was ordered to be given a psychiatric evaluation after he was unresponsive to the court. One accused was committed to the National Psychiatric Hospital for treatment until such time as he is fit to stand trial. In two other murder cases, both accused were found to be unfit to stand trial and ordered to be given psychiatric treatment after which time, they should be reassessed to determine if they are fit to stand trial. In one matter for the offence of carnal knowledge, the accused, who was out on bail failed to attend Court, and the judge issued an arrest warrant and his bail escheated. But the release also revealed that a startling number of carnal knowledge cases were not prosecuted, either because the witnesses refused to testify or because the accused could not be found. In one case, the matter was dropped after the alleged victim married the accused.
DEMERARA OCTOBER 2014 CRIMINALASSIZES The release noted that 25 of 226 cases were heard during the Demerara October 2014 Criminal Assizes, which ended on December 19, last with jail delivery being done by Madam Justice Dawn Gregory. The presiding judges were Justice Brassington Reynolds, Madame Justice Dawn Gregory and Justice Navindra Singh. Of the 25 matters heard during the Demerara October 2014 Criminal Assizes, 16 were presented in the High Court of Demerara during the Demerara October 2014 Criminal Assizes. Seven of the 16 cases were completed by Justice Reynolds, three were completed by Madame Justice Gregory and six by Justice Singh. Of the seven trials that were presented before Justice Reynolds, six were for the offence of murder and one for the offence of manslaughter. One murder accused, who had two separate court appearances before Justice Reynolds, was committed to the National Psychiatric Hospital for treatment until such time that he is fit to stand trial. One other murder accused was sentenced to death by Justice Reynolds, while a third accused was acquitted. The jury in one other Continud on page 24
Saturday January 03, 2015
Lisa Ramotar hired as Gold Board’s new GM The Guyana Gold Board (GGB) has a new General Manager (GM) -Lisaveta “Lisa” Ramotar, daughter of President Donald Ramotar. Ramotar was hired on a one-year contract after 15 applications were received. The post became vacant late last year after former GM, Anantram Balram, resigned amidst investigations of fraud at the Bartica, Region Seven branch of the GGB. A Government official with close relations to the Board confirmed that Ramotar, one of the Head of State’s three children, started work yesterday. She was reportedly interviewed by GGB’s Chairman, Dr. Gobind Ganga and Board Member, Jeffrey Thomas. Kaieteur News understands that the choice for the position came down to Ramotar and former Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, Dr. Yog Mahadeo. GGB as the Government buyer for gold has taken on extreme importance in recent years as gold prices went up, placing the metal as the country’s highest foreign currency earner. The new GM holds a Masters Degree in Finance and Investment from the University of York in the United Kingdom and a
Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from the University of Toronto in Canada. She also has 12 years working experience, including at the World Bank. Last year, Ramotar said she wanted a fair chance like every Guyanese. “There was never a question of if I’ll return home, because I never had the idea of living abroad. Guyana is home. I left to go out there and develop myself so I can come back and build a life here… in my country… around the culture that was embedded in me.” Back then, Ramotar was worried that should she be able to obtain a job suitable for her ability, some people might point fingers at her, as they did her brother, Alexei Ramotar, who is currently the Manager of the E-Governance Project. That project is in deep trouble now. “That’s why I am worried, because Alexei is very qualified. He got his Masters at one of the best universities and now just because our father is the President, people are not thinking about the fact that he has a skill that can aid in the development of Guyana…rather, some are deliberately spreading lies about a super salary to discredit him and my dad. But the bottom line is that he is qualified to do what he does.” Ramotar had said that it is
New GM: Lisaveta Ramotar a fact that she and her brothers began studying to pursue jobs within their respective fields long before her father became President. She was of the firm belief that being the children of the President and First Lady, should not stop them from being given equal opportunities to go after their dreams. “We are Guyanese, and this is our home, and we have equal rights to build our lives here, and that is what we want…for people to judge us on our capabilities, and not our affiliation to the President.” The former World Bank employee added that even though her father is the Head of State, she still drives her old car and does the same things she used to do before. These include jogging, baking goodies and also eating them.
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Saturday January 03, 2015
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
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RISING TO THE OCCASION They rose early out of necessity. This was 1987 when the water system on the East Coast of Demerara all but nearly collapsed. You had to rise early to begin to fill the numerous plastic buckets in your home so as to allow you to have enough water to last you throughout the day. The water in the early hours of the morning came at a trickle. It took close to half an hour to fill a small bucket with water. This trickle was the best that you were going to get for the rest of the day. And therefore you had to rise early to begin the process.
You also had to rise early if you worked in the city and needed to get to work early. Transportation was also a major problem. If you were late, the person who would usually take you to work by hire car was not going to wait on you. People therefore rose early out of necessity. To not do so would have been to lose an entire day’s work, and this included housework because you could not cook without water. The black tanks that many homes now have were not yet widely available. If they were they would have saved persons a great deal of
Dead: Shawn Bourne
Accused: Howard De Santos
A fugitive for more than a year on a causing death by dangerous driving charge was apprehended and hauled before the courts after he claimed the life of a 12 year old student last Sunday. Howard De Santos, 22, of Dazzell Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara was the driver behind the wheel of a packed minibus which clipped the back of another, before slamming into a hotel
fence at Agricola, killing one passenger and injuring several in August 2013. De Santos was also injured in the accident but was granted leave to receive medical treatment out of Guyana. He returned and had evaded arrest. He appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry on Wednesday, last at the Georgetown
Magistrates’ Court charged with causing death by dangerous driving in the 2013 accident. Prosecutors report that the 22-year-old driver will soon be charged for 12-yearold Cujoe McPherson’s death. He was remanded to jail on that charge. De Santos is accused of driving in a manner dangerous to the public while piloting motor vehicle BRR-1955 on August 18, 2013 at Agricola Public Road, East Bank Demerara, thereby causing the death of Shawn Bourne, 31. He was not required to plead to the charge. Reports are that Bourne, a father of three was in the front seat of the Route 45 minibus when it collided with another mini-bus at Agricola .He was one of 17 persons who were in the bus heading to the city. It was reported that the Continued on page 24
Housewives were stronger in 1987. They had to be. They needed the extra muscle power. People back then also generally were early to bed and early to rise. They had to be. Twenty-eight years ago, it was still traditional for persons in the countryside to rise early. The rhythm of agricultural life predisposed to persons rising early to feed the cattle or go into the fields to work. Persons not far removed from urban life, such as those on the East Coast of Demerara, also rose early.
Wanted bus driver fingered in another road death
Dem boys seh...
Ashni try fuh get away to 704 Some people does married and believe that dem is bachelor but de Holy Book always seh that de two shall become one. Brassington never carry Ashni to church suh he never know that piece of de Scriptures. De holiday come and gone but Ashni rum appetite still deh deep in he soul. Last night he tell he wife “Honey, I going to 704 to have a beer. I’ll be right back.” “Where are you going, Shaatie?” ask de wife. “I going to de Bar, Pretty Face,” he answered, “I’m going to have a beer.” De wife said, “You want a beer, my shaat love?” She open de fridge door and show he 25 different kind of beer, brands from different countries.” Ashni didn’t know what to do and de only thing he could think of saying, “Yes Lollipop…But at de bar—You know—they have frozen glasses.” He didn’t get to finish de sentence because de wife interrupt he. “You want a frozen glass Puppy Face?” She tek a big beer
mug out of de freezer, so frozen that she start fuh tremble wid cold just holding it. Ashni, looking a bit pale, seh, “Yes Tootsie Roll, but at 704 they have cutters that are really delicious.—I wouldn’t be long. I would be right back. I promise.” “You want cutters Poochie Pooh?” She open de oven and tek out four different cutters—chicken wings, pig tail, mushroom caps and little cheekies. “But my sweet honey— at 704—you know there is cussing, dirty world and all that.” “You want dirty words, Cutie Pie? Listen up, Chicken Sh*t, sit you shaat ass down and shut de f****k up. Drink you stupid beer in you f***ing frozen mug and eat you dumb ass cutters right here because you are married now and your shaat ass not going to any 704 bar. “That sh*t is over. Got it you shaat dumb ass?” But Ashni don’t tek lef. He get away and knock down somebody. Talk half and send Bee Kay to help him.
sleep because housewives would have been able to collect rainwater in large quantities and store this for later use. These large tanks came not long later and were a God-send. Instead of the government giving each schoolchild ten thousand dollars, they should undertake a physical survey and determine which homes needed plastic water tanks and give to each home so needing a tank a free or a subsidized tank. That would make a bigger contribution to poorer children getting to school on time since many needy families are still storing water in buckets and drums and many of them are still fetching water because of the low pressure that often does not allow water to get higher than the ground floor. The PPP administration has rightly concentrated on improving access of water to as many communities as possible. There were even back then in 1987 too many villages in which water simply was not available through the taps. Persons had to fetch water on carts for long distances. Many of these communities now have water available but the pressure remains extremely low.
In as much therefore as the government likes to speak about ensuring a better quality of social service, unless they can guarantee that water will be available to households higher than on the ground floor, persons will continue to have the need to store water in large plastic tanks mounted on trestles. Persons, including students still have to rise out of necessity. Water is not so much a problem as it was in 1987 but for those living in sub urban schemes such as Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara there is the problem of traffic. This means that some families are forced to rise early to prepare their meals and get ready for school and work, because if 7 o’clock catches you deep inside the Diamond Housing Scheme, for example, it’s not likely that you will get to work on time. Persons are still rising early out of necessity but there is hope in sight as the government works on improving the road infrastructure in the country. We are told, for example, that new road networks are being planned for this year. That is welcome news that should allow those affected a few extra hours of much-
needed sleep. I start on this theme of rising early because it seems as if Guyanese in the urban areas and those in suburban areas and close to suburban areas are still forced out of necessity rather than choice to rise early. Punctuality is a major problem in Guyana and this is one of the things that we should strive to improve in Guyana in the New Year. Too many persons are getting to work late; too many businesses are opening their doors behind schedule hours; too many events are starting later than advertized; and too many professionals have the clients waiting on them. 2015 should be the year of punctuality. It is time for Guyanese to rise early not out of necessity but out of choice. The days of bucketfetching will eventually come to an end. So too must the days of long traffic jams during peak hours.
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Kaieteur News
Saturday January 03, 2015
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
You could get a presidential slap and maybe a kick in 2015 for being stupid This is the first issue of the New Year and naturally it should start with the analysis of the contents of 2014. But that can wait because in my column, prioritizing the Ramotar tape scandal (in my opinion this is a scandal) is of urgent national importance. It simply defies the imagination how a nation can accept the continuation of top office holders who have committed the most sickening abominations that even in brutal military dictatorship they would be disciplined for less unbecoming conduct. Name any authoritarian system in the world where a serving Attorney-General would not receive even a mild rebuke for telling a press conference, “When the press keep referring to a Minister who does illegal things I thought it was me you referring to because I is a man does do illegal things.” That
man remained in office and his boss President Bharrat Jagdeo at the time, did not utter even one word of reprimand. It was expected of Jagdeo. If ever a human being was unfit for any political office it was Bharrat Jagdeo. No wonder Guyana is living in sempiternal insanity. This country has to be an anthropological accident and a genetic mistake to have produced the rulers we have had since 1999. President Ramotar has uttered not one word about what Anil Nandlall said in that recorded conversation with journalist Leonard Gildarie. The least you would expect a President to say is that; “if true, it needs investigating; if true I would be disappointed in Mr. Nandlall.” Even such a commonsensical utterance Mr. Ramotar is incapable of producing. Mr. Ramotar has now
jeapordized his moral leadership of the Cabinet, wider governmental structures, the security forces and the country as a whole by statements he made that are scurrilous, egregious, borders on moral incomprehensibility and indicates an appreciation for people with violent propensities. There is no way a country should accept a President or Prime Minister yelling out to a member of an audience that if his colleague, the former President Jagdeo, was present, that former President would slap that person for saying the things he said about Jagdeo. Then he called the citizen a stupid person. Now mind you, Mr. Ramotar was not taped expressing his feelings about the meeting to a select group of people after the event was over. Mr. Ramotar made his
obnoxious remarks in an open forum. And in the same breath, he was criticizing opposition leaders. How can any politician be so inept? You go to a meeting, endorse an act of violence, yell out to a citizen, that he is stupid, then moments later, tell your audience of how terrible the people in the opposition are. Is this the man the Guyanese people will re-elect as President in 2015? I hope not. Now here is where the people that Mr. Ramotar has around him are as equally foolish. Mr. Ramotar’s incompetent subordinates explained that the man was heckling the President. Well, Mr. Ramotar has to be the most imbecilic politician in the world since the modern world began to confront a heckler. That is a Sisyphean task that only Mr. Ramotar can successfully complete as a
politician in the entire world. At public gatherings you do not answer a heckler. There are three ways you can handle the situation. First, like President Obama, you can respond and try to be explanatory. Second, you can ignore the person. Third, if it is overbearing the police normally intervene. But you never argue with a heckler. You never cuss down a heckler. It is a no-win situation. For a man sixty-five years of age and who has been in politics for over forty years, Mr. Ramotar hasn’t learnt anything about the nature of public politicking. Maybe he did learn something. At the 2013 Old Year’s Night party of the army, he was photographed backballing with a woman. It was for me one of the most ridiculous images I have ever seen of a Guyanese politician. At the 2014 Old Year’s Night
Frederick Kissoon bash, he avoided that miasma. I don’t believe the Amerindian man was a heckler. I don’t believe the Government’s description of him as drunk either. He is a teacher who appears to have some kind of political awareness about him and he used the occasion to ask questions. The teacher has also accused a presidential guard of slapping him. The guard will not be charged. It would be a waste of time and money to bring a private charge against him because the witnesses may get some slaps.
Man wanted for killing wife captured in Corentyne hideout
Davendra Hansraj (l) was captured by police after being on the run
The hunt for the suspect in the Corriverton domestic violence murder is over with the arrest of the main suspect. The man who was on the run for close to three weeks was nabbed in a house in which he was hiding in a lonely area between Crabwood Creek and Moleson Creek. The police acting on certain information were able to swoop down on the premises around 16:30 hrs and surprise the culprit. The suspected, Davendra Hansraj, 43, called ‘Dog Man’ was wanted for the murder of his reputed wife, Mohanranie Udaray, called ‘Sherry’, 28. She was a mother of one of lot 17 Grant 1780 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne Berbice. The man had reportedly slipped out of the country and returned recently and was hiding out at the house in Upper Corentyne, when he was nabbed.
The woman was found with a wound to her neck after she was allegedly involved in an argument with the man. She was found lying in a pool of blood in an unconscious state. She hailed from the Black Bush Polder area and had been living with the man who is a boat captain on one of the small boats that ply the Corentyne River to Suriname. The couple had lived in the upper flat of a two-storey house. According to neighbours the woman was the victim of constant domestic abuse. On the day in question around 17:30 hrs the couple was heard arguing. Neighbours did not pay much attention since it was a regular occurrence. Landlord, Zamalindeen Khan, who resides at the lower flat of the house, had arrived home around 19:00 hrs. He sat down to watch television and his curiosity
was aroused when he noticed something dripping from the floor above. Upon closer inspection he realized it was blood. The police was contacted. The woman was found lying with her face down in a pool of blood with a gaping wound to her neck. The woman had gone to Georgetown to conduct some business for her daughter Riya. It was that visit that led to the argument. It was upon her returned that the argument erupted. The child did not sleep at home on the night in question. She went to her biological father’s home. A post mortem examination performed on the woman’s body, by Dr. Vivekanand Bridgemohan at the Skeldon Hospital showed that she died from asphyxiation, lack of oxygen due to blood in her lungs and stab wound to the neck.
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
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GRA did well with “challenging” $135B target - Sattaur - to share plastic drivers ID info with other agencies
The US$4.3M mobile container scanner that was commissioned last year by GRA The country’s tax collection authority says it has done “well” in meeting the targeted $135.3B it had set itself for 2014. According to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), last year was a remarkable
year, fraught with obstacles. “The task of collecting $135.3B was indeed challenging. However, the GRA is satisfied that it has done exceedingly well in terms of its main goal of revenue collection for 2014, and look
forward to a new year where the citizenry honour their tax obligations more voluntarily.” The organization said it continues to prove its fortitude amidst much skepticism and negative publicity. “Speculation in the
Corentyne bandit jailed for six years Denesh Ramorsad called ‘Shameer’, 18, of Kilcoy, Corentyne, who is well known to the authorities, was sentenced to a total of six years in jail on two charges of break and enter and larceny, last week. He appeared before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh in the Albion Magistrate’s Court and was found guilty. On September 9, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Ramratty Poonai and stole three gold rings, one Plum Cell phone and a quantity of goods. The woman had secured her First Street Williamsburg, Corentyne home around 12:30 hrs and left to go for fish. Upon her return she noticed her house broken into and ransacked. Upon checking she realized that the articles were missing. Checks were made and it was later discovered that Ramorsad
was seen lurking around the house earlier. Two finger rings and the phone was later found on him. He was subsequently charged. The victim later told the court that she knew the accused very well because he used to live and sleep by her. In court the accused admitted to stealing the items found on him, but later told the court that he doesn’t know about the other items. He begged the court for a ‘lil thing’ only. He was sentenced to three years in jail. In another matter Ramorsad on September 21, last, at 286 Greenheart Street, Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, broke and entered the dwelling house of Narine Ramsammy Sundar and stole two gold chains, one gold ring, one pair earring, one bangle and $40,000 in cash. The occupants heard strange sounds emanating
from within the house and awoke to confront the bandit who had gained entry by removing a few window panes. Upon being confronted by the occupants of the house, the thief pelted them with a black plastic bag he had in his possession in which were some of the items and escaped. He was subsequently caught and was sentenced to another three years in jail. The sentences will run concurrently.
public domain had suggested that revenue collection for 2014 was waning, but we are satisfied with our achievement for 2014,” Commissioner-General, Khurshid Sattaur said, noting that the GRA continues to fulfill its mandate in collecting Government revenues in keeping with the estimate approved in the National Assembly. Complementing its achievements in revenue collection, the entity yesterday reported that it has also seen improvement in the number of taxpayers who have been honouring their obligation to file returns. “There was a record 20,270 tax returns submitted at tax sites set up across the country for the April 30, 2014 deadline for Income Tax Returns. During 2014, efficiency and integrity also remained at the heart of the GRA’s operations, prompting the introduction of the Random Selection of Commercial imports for Inspection, which solicits the public’s involvement in the selection and examination process.” Other areas of achievement included the commissioning of a “state-ofthe-art Chinese manufactured mobile container scanner” with a capacity to electronically scan a maximum of 20 containers in one hour using the latest technology in x-ray imaging. “In 2014, the GRA also achieved significant success in collaborating with financial
institutions and service providers in rolling out its internet, tele-banking and other payment options programme to provide taxpayers with a modern and secure alternative for paying taxes.” In March 2014 commercial banks and corporate entities were added as collecting agents for various tax types and licence fees. The entities on board with the initiative are Mobile Money Guyana (MMG), Bill Express, Demerara Bank, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), Republic Bank and Bank of Baroda. “The initiative allowed taxpayers the option of paying various tax types via their computers or phones from any location, or at a convenient over-the-counter Bill Express location,” GRA said. “The motor vehicle licences was upgraded to a plastic card in 2014. The material is difficult to reproduce and includes some sophisticated features that could not have been included on the red book licence.” Additionally, the “much talked” about Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR) which offers concessions to first time homeowners, was decentralized for the benefit of applicants across the country. “This year marks fifteen (15) years since the GRA have been functioning as a semiautonomous body with a mandate to promote compliance with the country’s tax, trade and border laws and regulations. In keeping with
GRA’s Commissioner General, Khurshid Sattaur its Information Communication Technology (ICT) modernization plan, upgrades to its Total Revenue Integrated Processing System (TRIPS) are being conducted for the GRA to facilitate web based transactions. As such, TRIPS II is expected to rollout by mid 2015.” GRA also said yesterday that this year is expected to be one of technological change and advances for staff and taxpayers as it “eagerly” looks forward to providing electronic service, including the filing of tax returns. “The organisation also hopes to open several Tax Centers to provide basic services for taxpayers’ convenience. During 2015, further enhancements are also expected to be made to the new plastic driver’s licence as the agency moves into phase II of the rollout, to allow for information sharing with relevant stakeholders among other things.” The GRA also said it looks forward to new and improved stakeholder relationships in 2015 as the organisation continues to promote voluntary compliance and to improve taxpayer services.
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Kaieteur News
Teen found in creek died from drowning - post mortem Despite suggestions that he was kidnapped and murdered, police have unearthed no evidence of foul play in the death of 14-yearold Dhaniram Ramgopaul, whose body was fished out of a creek on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway last Tuesday. A police official said that a post mortem performed yesterday by Government pathologist Dr. Nehal Singh, revealed that Ramgopaul died from drowning. Kaieteur News was told that there was some evidence of trauma to the head, but that this was “consistent with him falling and drowning.” Police had questioned several people during their investigations. Ramgopaul disappeared last Sunday during a family outing at a creek on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway. His body was found two days later in an area in the same creek where relatives, aided by a diver, had searched frantically for him. Relatives said that the teen had gone to use a nearby washroom when he vanished. They suggested that he was
abducted by a gang of young men, killed at another location and then taken back to the creek. Police had detained six persons, including a woman, following initial reports that the teen was abducted. Among them were two individuals who reside in the same East Coast Demerara village as the victim’s family. There were reports that the teenager was seen with the two villagers shortly before he disappeared. The teenager’s mother, Jankie Seetaram, said that on Sunday, her son spent about 10 minutes in the creek and decided that he had enough since the water was cold. According to the woman, her son went to use a nearby washroom just as the family was preparing to leave. After about 15 minutes had passed and Ramgopaul did not return, the family went in search of him. They combed the entire area for hours without finding the 14-year-old. They eventually went home but returned to the area and resumed the search the following day. The family eventually received word on Monday
Dhaniram Ramgopaul that Ramgopaul was last seen with two young men from their village and they were directed to where one of the men was staying. The man and others were arrested. Kaieteur News was told that one of the suspects claimed that Ramgopaul was with them in a house on Sunday night. Police arrested a woman who owned the house, but she denied any knowledge of the missing child. Ms. Seetaram said that on Monday afternoon the police tried to search the woman’s house, but her husband prevented them from doing so. At around 06:00 hours on Tuesday, the family was informed that a body was in the creek where they had picnicked. The victim turned out to be Dhaniram Ramgopaul. Ms. Seetaram said she observed that there were black and blue marks on the torso, which she believed indicated that her son was beaten. “The blood was fresh, the body was fresh, the tummy was just beginning to swell and the pirai eat on it. He had some black and blue marks on his neck,” Seeteram said.
Saturday January 03, 2015
Ann’s Grove man is the country’s first murder victim for 2015 By Romila Boodram An Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD) mother is grieving the loss of her 21year-old son even as she starts the New Year. About 15 minutes after the world rang in 2015, Errol Sydney Campbell, of Lot 23 Ann’s Grove, died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), hours after being stabbed. Campbell, who had sustained a stab wound in the vicinity of his heart, succumbed while receiving treatment in the health institution’s emergency unit. The young man was stabbed around 21:30 hrs on Wednesday, just a few corners from his home. Kaieteur News was told that two teenagers have been arrested. Police sources have confirmed that the two young men confessed to stabbing the 21-year-old during an argument which had its genesis at a dance in the village on Boxing Day. According to reports reaching this newspaper, Campbell and his attackers got into an argument over the “lighting of flares.” This newspaper was told that the 21-year-old asked the two teenagers, who were lighting “flares” at the dance, if they could continue their actions outside since he had a problem with his eyes, and the smoke was making it
Dead: Errol Sydney Campbell difficult for him to see. However, Campbell’s request reportedly ignited a heated argument which led to a physical fight which later resulted in him being killed. Yesterday, Shunay Goodings, Campbell’s mother, said that sometime after 21:00 hrs on Wednesday, she sent her 15-year-old daughter to purchase food. Goodings said that her daughter later returned crying. “I ask her what happened and she said that the two boys beat my son, stab he up and his step-father take him to the hospital,” the mother of seven related. She added that her daughter informed her that while going to purchase the food, she met her brother
(Errol Campbell) and asked him to follow her. “She said that while they were walking home, she see the same two boys who de beat he before. She said that they were on bicycles. One of them was on the right side and the other was on the left side,” Goodings explained. She continued, “My daughter said that one of the boys walked into my son and hug him like… and say ‘leh this thing done hay tonight.” My daughter said that she see she brother aint moving so she push away the boy and my son fall on his knee, the boy de stab he already… he walked into my son with the knife” Goodings said her daughter related that after the young man was stabbed, his second attacker picked up a brick and threw it on him after which they left the scene. Campbell, who worked as a welder, was rushed to the GPHC where he later succumbed to his injuries. “Dem same two boys beat my son three times since Boxing Day. They beat him and now they kill him. Because my son does welding work, he does get arc eye so when the boys were lighting the flares, my son ask them to stop but they killed him for that.” Arc eye or Photokeratitis is a common condition suffered by welders. Continued on page 23
New School term begins on Tuesday Public schools across the country are scheduled for a Tuesday January 6, 2015, opening. This is according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Education which notified public schools of the opening date in a public missive The statement went on to
point out that candidates who have enlisted for the January sitting of the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, are reminded that these will be conducted on Monday, January 5, 2015 as timetabled. Additionally, parents and
guardians are also asked to note that schools will be closed on March 27, 2015, for the annual Easter Vacation. It was also noted that the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) will be conducted on Wednesday, April 1 and Thursday, April 2, 2015.
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
Guyanese among two ex-cons pardoned by NY Governor NEW YORK, CMC - New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has pardoned two Caribbean-born ex-convicts of robbery and drug charges that threatened their immigration status. Cuomo, in exercising his seldomly-used pardon power, granted pardons to Cubanborn, Manhattan architect Antonio Argibay, 62, and Guyanese-born, Queens resident Alvaro Khalil Cumberbatch, 33, saying they had been “active and engaged” in the community since their release and deserved a clean record. The positive contributions to society by both of these individuals in the years since their release support the case for justice to be delivered through clemency,” Cuomo said. Argibay served three years in prison after pleading guilty to drug charges in 1976. He received his master’s degree from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn while still on parole, and has been a licensed architect in New York for more than 30 years. Argibay is an active volunteer with Upwardly Global, a non-profit organisation that assists immigrants.
“I’m very emotional right now,” said Argibay, a US permanent resident, who runs his own architectural firm in Manhattan. “I’ve been seeking redemption for 39 years.” Cumberbatch, who lives in Springfield Gardens in Queens, was convicted of robbery in 2003 and after his release in 2010, became involved with prison re-entry organisations and sits on the board of the Alternatives to Violence Project. Cumberbatch is a married father of two young children and owns his own social media consulting business. “If I tried to tell you who would be poster child for rehabilitation, it would be Khalil,” said JoAnne Page, President of the Fortune Society, which
assists prisoners in re-entering society. “He just did so much that you hope people would do against the usual odds, everything from working a job, building a consulting business, being there for his family, helping other people,” she said, adding that Cumberbatch, who migrated to the US from Guyana as a child, was taken into custody by US federal immigration authorities last year, and released in October. “The positive contributions to society by both of these individuals in the years since their release support the case for justice to be delivered through clemency,” said Cuomo in a statement, noting that applications for clemency have dropped from a high of 1,269 in 2010 to 171 in 2014.
Ann’s Grove man is the... From page 12 It is a painful eye condition caused by exposure of insufficiently protected eyes to the ultraviolet (UV) rays from either natural (e.g. intense sunlight at high altitudes) or artificial (e.g. the electric arc during welding) sources Goodings said that her son had been suffering from
that condition ever since he started working as a welder. “I want justice. In fact, I know I will get justice because Justice Navindra Singh giving people 70 years and more for murder, so let them go there and punish. They killing people for no reason” the mother posited. Campbell leaves to mourn his seven siblings and his parents.
Page 21
East Bank man accused of beating ‘wife’ for sex A 27-year-old maintenance worker accused of beating his reputed wife with a ‘pressure cooker’ because she refused to have sexual intercourse with him, has been fined $10,000. Abna Garner, of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, was taken before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on an assault charge. Garner pleaded guilty to the charge which detailed that on December 30; last, he assaulted his 20-year-old reputed wife. He said that he did not wish to waste the court’s time. Police Prosecutor, Kerry
Boswick told the court that the two have been in a common law relationship for the past three years and have a one-year-old daughter. Boswick explained that on the day in question, Garner returned home intoxicated and the couple had a misunderstanding because the woman refused to have sexual intercourse with him. The Prosecutor added that as a result Garner became annoyed and dealt the woman several slaps and hit her with a pressure pot. Boswick said in self-defence, the woman armed herself with a hand saw and hit Garner thereby injuring him.
Both parties sought medical attention and were later arrested and charged. The Prosecutor recommended counseling for the couple. In court the man apologised “I’m sorry for everything that happened…I’d like to move forward and look after our kid as the New Year start.” The woman, who was charged with assaulting Garner, accepted the apology. She too had pleaded guilty and was ordered to post $5000 fine. They were both placed on peace bonds and ordered to report to Help and Shelter for counseling.
From page 13 base. That ball was a hive of activity and the President and his wife took the opportunity to show their moves to several popular songs, much to the ranks' pleasure. The First Couple was then whisked to the Guyana Police Force Officers' Mess, Eve Leary, where, along with Prime Minister Hinds and his wife, they interacted with senior ranks, and danced. After spending close to
an hour at the police headquarters, the President and his wife visited several of the parties being held at popular night spots, enjoying the scene until the wee hours of the morning with other
partygoers. For the President, it was a rare occasion to relax before what will be a hectic year as he leads his political party into early General and Regional elections.
President Ramotar and First Lady usher...
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Kaieteur News
SALON Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal and Sacha cosmetics. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 ACCOMODATION SIGNATURE INN: Luxury Suites & Apartments. Free Wi-Fi & Breakfast; AC & Self Contained Rooms @ 83 Laluni Street Queenstown. Tel: 592-226-2145
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE AUTO RENTAL: CARS & SUV FOR RENTAL-$4,000&UPPERDAYCALL: 643-5122, 219-3900, EMAIL: PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM
VACANCY Live in housekeeper; to care for infant 40-50yrs – Call: 697-8797 IT Technician to install outdoor antenna, must have drivers license. Send application to jobs@awngy.com International Cruiseline Purser officers, waitresses, waiters, cooks, receptionists, storekeepers, cleaners, electricians, carpenters, plumbers, musicians etc – Tel: 231-6296, 650-9880 Waitresses to work at a Bar at Agriculture Road –E.C.D Cashier able to work flexible hours and have CXC Maths, send application to jobs@awngy.com 3 Pastry makers, please apply at Humphrey’s Bakery & Farm products limited 38 Ketley & Sussex St. Charlestown- Call:225-7864/ 225-8607 One refrigeration Airconditioned trainee- Call:2310655,683-8734 Accounts Clerk; apply @ D. Singh & Sons @ 95 King Street Georgetown- Call: 2261316; 226-0881 Vacancy for experienced dispatcher- Call: 231-4000 or 231-4001 Work from home; earn $5,000-20,000 daily, www.jobfairworldwide.com – Call: 233-6517; 622-1957 Call Monday – Friday 9am-5pm
EDUCATIONAL Maths Lessons! @ 44 Delph Street Campbellvill – Contact Sir Dass. Call: 654-3159; Forms 2, 3, 5 & repeaters, limited space available Practical Electronic Course; Starting 12th January 2015Call Abdul Electronics: 2266551; 225-0391
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves. Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer Call Omar: 2310655,683-8734 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 225-6496, 6626045
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 GT TOOL RENTALS: COMPACTOR; CHIPPING HAMMER RANSOM & FLOOR SANDER, (SALE) & MORE, JACK HAMMER, CONCRETE SAW - CALL: 675-0767, 667-2535 Taxi service to rent @ 58 Station Street Kitty – Contact Maylene Sahadeo: 226-8978 or 622-5187 Business spot to rent on public road- Call:613-0448/ 672-8625 1 Upper flat 2 bedroom concrete apartment @ Grove New Housing Scheme E.B.D (First Bridge) - $45,000 per month – Call:642-1956 Three bedrooms house at 119 Canterbury Walk, BV, E.C.D - $30,000 monthly – Call: 654-6841 Lower 2 bedrooms apartment @ Factory Road, Paradise, East Coast, Demerara; with light & water -$40,000 monthly – Contact: 625-9939 1 Wash Bay & Snackette; good Hope E.B.E –Call: 6804991 or 277-3033
TO LET One bedroom apartment for a couple. $30,000 monthly. In Charlestown- Call:223-3958/ 660-9463 Rooms & apartments (furnished & unfurnished) in Eccles & Alberttown- Call: 225-3234 2 bedroom apartment $55,000 @ Dowding Street Kitty –Call: 674-3735; 6528970
PEN PAL Companion for retired gentleman 38+ Bobby Other, Worksharp, 92-96 Lord Street, PR8 1JR, England. FOR SALE/RENT American Pool Table – Call: 277- 0578
Five bedrooms house @ 107 Lamaha Gardens & large parking, AC rooms, hot & cold, purified water system – Call: 661-8908; 335-3590
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Complete Snapper Boats for sale – Excellent Condition – Contact: 648-6815; 641-4506 1- Complete 6" Dredge for mining, includes 6 Cylinder Perkins & 1-4 Cylinder. All pumps, mats, etc, asking $3M – Contact: 610-1001 Portable sawmill fully hydraulic Th30-25 Timber Harvester – Call: 261-2553 Christmas Sale: Dell/HP Computer with 19" LCDs, laptops - $55,000 @ Futuretech – Call: 231-2206 Promix BX with microrize $10,500 per bag; ask for Rayman – Call: 615-2346; 6280200, 263-5300 1 Toshiba Laptop (17.3inches) 1 5000 Watts Briggs & Stratton generator - Call: 622-0503; 689-9932 1 Numark DM 1295 4 Channel mixer, 1 Teac CD burner uses any blank CD – Call: 6220503; 689-9932 2 Gemini GXA 4000 Watts power amp, 1 Technical Pro 3250 watts pro 3250 watts power amp – Tel: 622-0503; 689-9932 2 SL I serato boxes, 2 Denon 3500 CD Juggler, 2 Gemini GXA 3000 Watts power Amp – Call: 622-0503; 689-9932 Diving Suit – Call: 265-3449; 613-5158 Rubberized Tarpaulins for sale 20X20 - $20,000, any size available – Tel: 657-2304 PSP games $800, Computer games $1000 & over 1200 titles. Contact:675-2239; BBM 7FF1557E One double stall with overhead storage in Stabroek Market – Call: 6197925 (can be inspected) Brand new Toshiba washing machine – Call:628-1155; 6220784 Marine parts (In Board) engines from 20HP to 500Hp Propeller gearbox, shaft, gland all electronics etc – Call: 674-3735; 652-8970 German shepherd pups. Tel: 699-7077/619-6086
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTAL CALL: 225-7126/ 2263693 DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM/ WWW.DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL.COM Aidan’s Car & Pickup rental, cheap rate, low security – Tel:698-7807; 690-6494 HEALTH Money Back guarantee; cleaner, clearer younger looking skin in two weeks, also flatter stomach – Call: 684-9409; 699-4211
Saturday January 03, 2015
VEHICLE FOR SALE Pitbull bus ($3.2M) Verossa $3.7M, Noah- $2M (All new) Call: 603-9700 SALE! SALE! SALE! New model Spacio (2005) TV, Front & back camera; fully loaded $2M- Call: 642-7295 Toyota Prado, Price$5.5M Neg. Call: 643-2403 One ford IVECO sand truck with Cummings Engine, GNN Series, excellent condition, owner leaving country - Call: 604-6860, 643-2911 2003 Toyota IST; fully loaded with bodykit -$2M, never registered – Call: 628-0909; 260-2327 2005/ 6yrs Silver Toyota Allion, new shape, lights at D.North Auto Sales, low mileage $2.550M – Tel:663-0584 Spacio 2004, Body Kit, rims, camera, spoiler, dark interior, crystal light, new shape (unregistered) – Tel: 617-5536 Toyota Spacio, Body Kit, Rims, spoiler, CD player; never registered - $2.1M – Call: 617-2891 Unregistered Premio, Bluebird Sylphy, 07 Fielder, 06 Allion, Axela Sports; Best Grade & Best Prices – Call: 616-3413; 692-6159 City’s Motor’s One Toyota Tundra - $1.7M – Contact: 613-7596; 2268643; 231-0497
WANTED One manager to work at an out of town hotel - Call: 225-2535; 626-6909 from 9am to 4pm Urgently! Needed live- in waitress- Call:686-3116 One live-in domestic or couple to work in Mahaicony River- Call:225-6571, 644-6905 Live in domestic in Peter’s Hall, 1 week on; 1 week off, 40years plus, starting $13,000. Call:675-0767, 627-5098 From 2pm -12pm; 4 waitresses to work at Bora Sports Bar at W.C.D – Call: 680-0129; 2761925
WANTED We buy land in Parfaite Harmonie, Providence, Schoonord, Herstelling & Eccles - Tel: 675-7292; 2185591; 652-2018 Experienced Puri/Roti Cook, Pastry makers, cleaner; apply at Hack’s Halaal Commerce Street. Urgently porters to work on beverage canter truck, preferably on E.C.D- Call:2223927; 649-9876; 686-1352 1 Live in housekeeper and Teacher to give child lesson in Diamond – Call: 675-8101 Live in waitress age 18-25yrs – Salary $50,000-$60,000 monthly – Call: 610-5043 Live in Domestic must know to cook Indian dishes age 2545yrs salary -$60,000 monthly – Call: 610-5043 Mature couple to work & live on Resort @ Parika, Must know to read & write – Call:226-9492, between 9:30am-3:30pm (Mon-Fri)
LAND FOR SALE Blankenburg, Public Road W.C.D (38ftX150ft), (39ftX150ft) - $16M each; Back Street, Unity Street La Grange W.B.D 85X750- $16M Call: 666-3619 Parfaite Harmonie -$1.4M & $3.5M (110ftX50Ft) Herstelling - $5.5M, Providence -$5.5M, Schoonord -$4.2M, Gove $2.6M –Call:675-7292; 6522018 1500 Acres Transported Land @ Bartica 2 ¾ miles River Front, Virgin Rock, Quarry Resort – Call Mark: 704-465-2222/603-1266 Double Land @ Lot 7 Tuschen E.B.E – Call: 6722215
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Hire cars @ Atlas Taxi Service – Call: 218-5593; 218-5594 One male able bodied clerk – Call:225-2313;226-1497
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Cooks & waitresses; cashier, cleaners to work at Flambouyant Restaurant & Bar, preferably applicants from E.B.D only – Call: 2332849 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic –Call: 219-5354 Mon-Sat between 8:15-4:15
Two Storied concrete & wooden house, Enterprise Gardens, E.C.D – Call: 6466357 House & Land @ Cemetery Rd. Helena No.1 Mahaica E.C.D. Land (65FTX150FT) - $13M- Tel: 689-0820, 6743902
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 23
Father of one granted bail Miner charged with stabbing colleague to death for wounding elderly man
Accused: Michael Clarke A 22-year-old father of one from West Ruimveldt, Georgetown accused of pushing an elderly man into a window was yesterday granted bail to the tune of $70,000. Michael Clarke appeared
at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer an unlawful wounding charge before Magistrate Annette Singh. It is alleged that on December 21 last at West Ruimveldt, he unlawfully and
maliciously wounded Martin Lynch. Clarke pleaded not guilty to the charge and submitted an application for bail through his lawyer, Clyde Forde. In a bail application, Forde said that his client had no priors and had attended court on his own accord. He said that Clarke, a clerk at Muneshwars Limited and father of one, was acting as a peacemaker during the incident when the older man lashed him with a crow bar. Corporal Kerry Boswick, who prosecuted the case, objected to bail. He said that if the court considers bail, Clarke may tamper with the victim since they live in proximity. He asked, however, that if a court bond is granted, it be set at a substantial amount. Boswick explained that on the day in question Clarke pushed Lynch into a window which resulted in injuries to the man. He said that to date the older man is complaining about pains in his legs. Boswick’s objection was overruled, however, and bail was granted. The matter is set to be called again on January 13. The 22-year-old was placed on a bond to be on good behaviour pending the outcome of the trial.
Letters... Where your views make the news
The new year promises to be yet another challenging one DEAR EDITOR, The year 2014 was quite an eventful year, both locally and internationally. The year ended with a decision by US President Barack Obama to normalise relations with Cuba which effectively brought to an end over five decades of diplomatic isolation by the United States against the Cuban government. However, there were also many catastrophic events which saw among others, the disappearance of a Malaysian aircraft en route to China in which scores of passengers perished. Another such mishap took place mere days ago involving another Malaysian aircraft on its way to Singapore. There was also the continuing tension in the Middle East which saw exchange of artillery and missiles between Israel and the Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Dozens of lives were lost, not to mention millions of dollars in terms of damage to property and infrastructure. Then there was the rise of Islamic extremist elements operating in several countries such as Nigeria, where dozens of females were kidnapped by Boko Haram
elements who are opposed to western education, especially among females. The scale of deaths and destruction is most worrying. The rise of ISIS in Syria, Iraq and other neighbouring countries has also posed a major challenge to the United States and other governments in the region. The conflict in the Central African Republic and South Sudan has also grabbed international headlines if only because of the brutality and savage nature of the killings and massacre that took place. Tensions between Russia and the western world over Ukraine and the Crimea have not escaped the international spotlight. At the local level, the
decision by President Donald Ramotar to prorogue Parliament has certainly taken centre stage following attempts by the combined opposition to move a NoConfidence Motion against his administration. This new year promises to be yet another challenging if not exciting year due to impending national elections. Most Guyanese look forward to a return to normalcy to the body politic in 2015 following a gruelling parliamentary impasse which saw the opposition parties using their one-seat majority to stymie the Government’s legislative and developmental agenda. A happy and productive new year to all Guyanese! Hydar Ally
Beres Hammond to entice tonight... From page 13 first appearance on the Guyanese stage while Hammond is a household name, not only here but throughout the Caribbean and the rest of the world. Hammond has had massive crossover appeal with sensational hits such as “I Feel Good”, “No Disturb Sign”, “Rock Away” among many memorable others. In addition to the Jamaican duo, local artistes, Mingles Sound Machine, Jackie Hanover and Super Ray will be making appearances at the Stadium. Tonight's concert is set to be an enchanting and electrifying experience for lovers of the soulfully romantic voice of Beres Hammond and his music.
Twenty-year-old miner Alex Higgins appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to face a manslaughter charge yesterday. Higgins allegedly stabbed another miner, Devon Fraser to death at Konawaruk, Potaro last Saturday. The miner, who was unrepresented, made his appearance before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry. He was not required to plead to the charge since it was laid indictably. The accused, clad in a blue and white polo shirt and a pair of shorts, was assisted into the courtroom since his left leg was in a cast. Police Prosecutor, Inspector Michael Grant informed that Higgins had been chopped by residents from a nearby community in relation to another incident. Higgins, the court heard, resides at Lot 542 ‘D’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown. Grant objected to bail, citing the nature and seriousness of the offence. He said that Higgins was charged based on a confession statement where he said that Fraser attacked him and he defended himself. According to Grant, through police investigations it was revealed by eyewitnesses that it was the
An injured Alex Higgins being lifted down the stairs by police ranks yesterday accused who attacked the victim. The Prosecutor added that once statements are garnered, a charge of murder is likely to be instituted against Higgins. Grant said too, that advice was already sought from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the matter. Even though manslaughter is a bailable offence, the Chief Magistrate denied the accused his pretrial liberty. The matter was made returnable for January 19, a time the Chief Magistrate
instructed that Higgins can use to renew his bail application. Reports are that about 23:45 hours on Christmas Eve Day (December 24) 26-yearold Fraser of Golden Fleece, West Coast Berbice, was involved in an altercation with Higgins during which he was stabbed about the body. In a release, the police said that both men suffered injuries and were admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Fraser succumbed at about 01:30 hours on December 27.
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Kaieteur News
Saturday January 03, 2015
69 murder cases heard in 2014 Day 5: Difficult terrain hampers search for missing plane
From page 6 murder trial failed to reach a verdict and the accused was sent back to prison to await a new trial. In two other separate trials, one for the offence of murder and the other for the lesser offence of manslaughter, both accused were acquitted after the trial judge upheld no case submissions and directed the jury to return formal verdicts of not guilty. Madame Justice Dawn Gregory completed three murder cases. In two of these cases, the accused were acquitted after the jury returned unanimous verdicts of not guilty. The accused in the other matter was also acquitted after the trial judge upheld a no case submission, and directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty. Six murder cases were presented before Justice Navindra Singh. Of these six matters, there were five guilty verdicts and one acquittal. In three of the five cases the accused were respectively sentenced to 83 years imprisonment. In the fourth matter, where there were two accused persons, the number one accused was sentenced to 66 years’ imprisonment, while the number two accused was sentenced to 50 years’ imprisonment. In the fifth case, Justice Singh sentenced the murder accused to 66 years’ imprisonment after the jury returned a guilty verdict, while in a sixth trial, four murder accused were all acquitted after the jury returned a unanimous verdict of not guilty. The Director of Public Prosecutions nolle prosequi (cancelled prosecution) nine matters during this time. These included one murder case and eight carnal knowledge cases. “In the eight matters for the offence of carnal knowledge of girl under 15, one virtual complainant indicated in writing that she no longer wished to proceed with the matter. The whereabouts of four other virtual complainants remained unknown, while three others failed to attend Court,” the release stated. “The accused in one murder matter died in prison while awaiting his trial.” BERBICE CRIMINAL ASSIZES The Berbice Criminal
Assizes opened on October 21, before Justice James Bovell-Drakes, who commenced three matters; two for the offence of murder and one for the offence of carnal knowledge. In one murder charge, the accused pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter and was sentenced to 13 years’ imprisonment. The other murder case was aborted after the number three juror reported to the Court that the daughter and the sister of the two accused had visited her work place and had told her that their father and brother were innocent of the charge. As a result, the Defence Counsel indicated that they believed the juror and that it was prejudicial to both the Defence and the State. This is the second time this charge is being aborted because of allegations of a person speaking to a juror. The accused in the matter for the offence of carnal knowledge did not attend court after the jury was empanelled and Justice Bovell-Drakes issued an arrest warrant for the accused, before he discharged the jury. The October 2014 Berbice Criminal Assizes continues until February 5, 2015. ESSEQUIBO CRIMINALASSIZES Meanwhile, the Essequibo Criminal Assizes commenced on October 28, 2014 with Justice Franklin Holder, who completed three cases. Of these three cases, two were for the offence of murder and one for the offence of rape of a child under 16. In one of these two murder trials, the accused was acquitted after the jury found him not guilty and in the other, the two accused were each sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment after the jury returned a unanimous verdict of guilty. The virtual complainant in the matter for the offence of rape of a child under 16 testified that she no longer wished to offer any evidence against the accused as they are now married. Justice Holder directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty. The Essequibo October 2014 Criminal Assizes continues until February 16, 2015. The January 2015 Assizes for Demerara will be opened on January 13, next. There are 213 cases listed to be heard during the session. Justice Navindra Singh, Justice
Franklin Holder and Justice James Bovell-Drakes have been rostered to sit during this assizes. Meanwhile, the February 2015 Berbice Criminal Assizes will commence on Tuesday, February 17, 2015, before Justice Brassington Reynolds, who will commence sitting in January 2015. The February 2015 Criminal Assizes for Essequibo will open on Tuesday February 3, 2015 before Madame Justice Sandra Kurtzious. “During 2014 we appeared in 50 matters in the Court of Appeal. There are five applications pending for Notices of Hearing of Appeals,” the DPP release stated. Nineteen appeals were dismissed and six matters were rejected. Of these six appellants, two died while awaiting their appeals to be heard, while the four other appellants and their defence counsel made no court appearance. Ten Applications of Notice to Withdraw were granted while three appeals were struck out by the Court. Two appellants had their applications for bail refused and one other Application for Extension of Time to file the Notice of Appeal was granted. The Court allowed two appeals. In one of these matters, the appellant had three separate Court hearings. The first application was refused, while at a second hearing, the Court granted him bail in the sum of $150,000 with surety in like sum. At the third hearing, the court granted his appeal and ordered a new trial by another magistrate. The appellant in the one other matter had his conviction and sentence set aside. In the Demerara Full Court five matters were heard during 2014 before Chief Justice Ian Chang sitting either with Justice Rishi Persaud and Justice Navindra Singh. In one matter, the application by the defence to withdraw and discontinue the matter was withdrawn. In two other matters, the Applications for Extension of Time to file the Notice of Appeal were granted while one Application for extension of time was dismissed. One matter was struck out by the Court because there was no appearance by counsel for the appellant. The Berbice Full Court heard three matters before Chief Justice Ian Chang sitting with Justice Navindra Singh. In one matter, the Full Court found that it was the wrong Court to hear the appeal and transferred the matter to the Court of Appeal. Two other Appeals were dismissed.
Rescue workers plot the areas to be checked as search efforts continue Rescue workers sacrificed their New Year holiday to continue search efforts for missing Air Services Limited (ASL) Britten Norman Islander 8R-GHE and still organizers are no closer to finding the missing aircraft. The twin engine plane went missing last Sunday, after contact was lost with 27-year-old pilot, Captain Nicky Persaud and 51-year-old cargo handler, David Bisnauth. The five-day search has not deterred rescue workers who are determined to locate the craft as far as resources will allow. Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority’s (GCAA) Director General, Mr. Zulficar Mohamed, and members of the Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) travelled to the RCC’s sub-center in Mahdia on New Year’s Day to assist in the Search and Rescue mission for the ASL aircraft which went missing on December 28. The plane was en route to Karisparu in the Potaro-Siparuni region. It had taken off from Mahdia with construction material just after midday, when contact was lost minutes later. Thursday’s aerial Search and Rescue operations was based at Mahdia, but according to the GCAA, inclement weather and overcast conditions caused operations to start late. The aviation agency said however that based on information received, “the RCC identified further areas of interest in the Kurungiku Mountain, Black
Water area and North Fork area.”They said a party is currently on the ground conducting a search of the Black Water area after completing a similar exercise in the North Fork area. The areas mentioned are in the direct flight path of the missing aircraft and aviation officials have been concentrating their efforts there. According to them, they have been receiving a lot of information about possible aircraft sightings in the named locations. The GCAA Director told Kaieteur News yesterday that additional ground searches are being organized since a lot of flyovers are being conducted, but the densely forested and mountainous terrain continue to pose a major challenge. In a public release, the agency said that, “more intense ground search effort will commence tomorrow (today). Other specialist teams have been mobilized and will be transported to Mahdia and other areas of interest.” The teams are drawn from personnel of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and Air Services Ltd. “More than 150 square miles were covered in the Search and Rescue effort; and in excess of 60 hours of flight time were logged in the Search and Rescue mission forASL’s Britten Norman Islander aircraft.” Search and rescue officials were reluctant to face the “what
ifs,” and when asked, they pointed out that it is too early to consider giving up the search for the missing ASL crew. This is despite the critical 72-hour search period expiring a long time ago. Rescuers are working in locations that reach heights of more than 3,500 feet. Thick vegetation and inclement weather have also been identified as major hindrances to the rescuers. The Britten Norman Islander was carrying a spot tracker device, which gives off location monitor hits every 10 minutes. The information is transmitted via satellite. However, this tracker is challenged by many factors, including rough terrain, especially mountainous regions such as the one where rescuers are working. The aircraft was also carrying a built-in emergency locator/transmitter. Transmitter signals can be received by other aircraft until the device’s battery is depleted. Since the Islander lost communication with Air Traffic Controllers, no signal has been heard from the aircraft. The family of both the pilot and cargo handler remain anxious. Persaud’s sister-in -law had told this newspaper that the family though agitated, remained optimistic. They had been spending much time at the ASL hanger at Ogle International Airport. The newspaper was told that contact is being kept with the sister of the cargo handler, as she too remains hopeful.
From page 9 bus was returning from the Splashmin’s Fun Park on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway when the vehicle clipped the back of a Route 32 bus, before slamming into the Alpha Hotel fence at Agricola. There are reports that the mini-bus toppled several times before coming to a halt. Bourne’s sister, sister-in-law and two nieces were also injured in the accident. A total of eight other persons were hospitalised in the accident. These are Niketa Moore, 1, Rocky Moore, 44; Kevin Granderson; Kenwin
Isaacs, 18; Shania Bourne, 4; Waylele Park, 30; Avid De Younge, 25, and De Santos, the driver. All of the injured persons were occupants of the route 45 minibus. No serious injuries were incurred by the passengers of the route 32 minibus. Bourne subsequently perished from his injuries. During the court hearing on Wednesday, Police Prosecutor, Inspector Michael Grant opposed bail, citing the nature, gravity and seriousness of the offence. The Prosecutor also objected to De Santos being allowed his pre-trial liberty by
informing the Court that he is set to be charged with causing the death of the President’s College student. The First Form student was struck down by De Santos, who was allegedly speeding on Sunday, December 28 on the pedestrian crossing at Paradise Village (Line Top), East Coast Demerara. It was during his arrest for McPherson’s death that De Santos was charged for the death of Bourne, the Prosecutor said. Bail was refused and the matter was adjourned to January 19.
Wanted bus driver fingered...
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
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T&T Opposition says Samuels, Sparman, head Prison, Fire Service promotions Govt. burying head in Approval has been granted for the Substantive Appointments within the Guyana Prison Service with effect from 3rd December 2014: AS SENIOR SUPERINTENDET OF PRISONS Mr. Gladwin Samuels – Superintendent of Prisons AS SUPERINTENDENT OF PRISONS 1. Mr. Nicklon Elliot – Assistant Superintendent of Prisons 2. Mr. Kevin Pilgrim – Assistant Superintendent of Prisons 3. Mr. Richard Brown – Assistant Superintendent of Prisons 4. Mr. Alexander Hopkinson – Assistant Superintendent of Prisons 5. Ms. Evelyn Crandon – Assistant Superintendent of Prisons AS ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF PRISONS 1. Cadet officer Carlton Cameron 2. Cadet Officer DeorajGyandat 3. Cadet Officer Mark Smith 4. Cadet Officer Kelvin Hutson 5. Chief Officer Kofi David AS CHIEF PRISON OFFICER 1. Mr. Seon Charles – Principal Officer 11 2. Mr. Raymond Bagot – Principal Officer 11 3. Ms. Christine George –Principal Officer 11 4. Mr. Marvin Azore – Principal Officer 11 5. Mr. Kirk Joseph – Principal Officer 11 6. Mr. Desmond Darlington – Prison Trade Instructor 7. Mr. Peter Barker – Principal Officer 11 8. Mr. Patrick Crawford – Principal Officer 11 9. Ms. Beverly Critchlow-Williams – Principal Officer 11 10. Mr. Ossie Harper-Nurse – Principal Officer 11 11. Ms. Michelle Baynes – Principal Officer 11 AS PRINCIPAL OFFICER 11 1. Ms. Ann Cornette – Prison Trade Instructor 2. Ms. Paula Grahame – Principal Officer 1 3. Ms. Maxine Mourant – Principal Officer 1 4. Ms. Joylyn Young-Scott – Principal Officer 1 5. Mr. Lionel Cave – Principal Officer 1 6. Mr. Prince Cox – Principal Officer 1 7. Mr. Orin Halley – Principal Officer 1 8. Ms. Suana Cambridge-Eastman – Principal Officer 1 AS PRINCIPAL OFFICER 1 1. Ms. Dazley Grandison – Principal Officer 2. Mr. Gershwyn Gordon – Principal Officer 3. Mr. Roger Dublin – Principal Officer
4. Ms. Michelle Eversley – Principal Officer 5. Ms. Yolanda Persaud – Principal Officer 6. Mr. Troy Rodney – Principal Officer 7. Ms. Jacqueline Henry – Principal Officer 8. Mr. David Dias – Principal Officer 9. Ms. Marcia Collier – Principal Officer 10. Mr. Joel Campbell – Principal Officer 11. Ms. Shelly Oxford – Principal Officer AS PRISON TRADE INSTRUCTOR 1. Mr. Justin Eastman – Principal Officer 2. Mr. Frank La Rose – Principal Officer 3. Mr. Erwin Mentore – Principal Officer GUYANAFIRE SERVICE Approval has been granted for the following Substantive Appointments in the Guyana Fire Service with effect from the dates stated against their respective names: AS DIVISIONAL OFFICER Station Officer Compton Sparman – from 1st June 2013 AS STATION OFFICER 1. Sub Officer Debbie Stephenson – from 1st June 2013 2. Sub Officer Aubrey Hardy – from 1st March 2014 3. Sub Officer Everard Harding – from 1st March 2013 AS SUB OFFICER 1. Section Leader EzlaBynoe – from 1st March 2013 2. Section Leader Dehola Jacobs – from 1st June 2013 3. Section Leader Tricia Lawrence – from 1st August 2013 4. Section Leader Shannon Crawford – from 1st March 2014 5. Section Leader Fitzroy Sutton – from 1st March 2013 6. Section Leader Courtney Springer – from 1stMarch 2013 AS SECTION LEADER 1. Leading Fireman Michael Davidson – from 30th May 2012 2. Leading Fireman Delbert Pitt – from 17th December 2012 3. Leading Fireman Ryburn Williams – from 1st June 2013 AS LEADING FIREMAN 1. Fireman 1272 Gillard Hope – from 3rd April 2012 2. Fireman 1288 SurainSamaroo – from 17th July 2012 3. Fireman 1293 Sunil Persaud – from 21st November 2012 4. Fireman 1284 Marvin Watts – from 30th May 2012 AS LEADING FIREWOMAN 1. Firewoman 108 Melissa Belle – from 17th December 2012 2. Firewoman 109 Franka Thomas – from 31st December 2012.
sand over oil prices
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CMC - The main Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) Wednesday accused the coalition People’s Partnership Government of burying its head in the sand as Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar indicated that her Administration had no intention of reducing expenditure in certain areas, or cutting salaries in the face of dwindling global oil prices globally. “The prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago, who has led five consecutive record-spending budgets in this country, should tell us exactly how she and her Cabinet will manage our affairs so that the challenging circumstances, collapse of oil prices, followed by lowering gas prices, would find us in a situation where our quality of life... is not damaged irreparably. “Her statement has not addressed the challenges in front of us, she is burying her head in the sand and is totally consumed by the election that is a few weeks a w a y, ” P N M l e a d e r D r Keith Rowley said. In a New Year’s, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar said that she would, on January 8, address the nation “on the state of the economy. “I will address the issue of falling oil and gas prices and their implications for Trinidad and Tobago and outline the way forward in the year ahead,” she added. Finance Minister Larry
Prime minister and opposition leader call for renewed focus in 2015 KINGSTON, Jamaica CMC – Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has urged Jamaicans to recommit to the Vision for Jamaica in 2015. In her address to mark the start of the new year, Simpson Miller said 2015 is an opportune time to recommit to the Vision for Jamaica, “a vision in which our never-ending hope in a brighter future is based on a realistic and shared
understanding of the present and our role in building that better future.” She also pointed to some of the achievements in 2014, noting that on the economic front, Jamaica recorded significant achievements and met targets under Jamaica’s Economic Reform Programme supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). “The country success-
Ramotar's “Jagdeo slap”... From page 3 was the commander of the army at the time. And now that he is the leader of the PNC, I would expect that he would make a genuine effort to return the weapons that were given to the PNC.” APNU noted that Ramotar, over the past three years, has degraded the high office of President of the Republic with his invective and vituperative language and as such, is bringing the entire
nation into disrepute. Granger has since called on the President to issue an apology to the indigenous community following his vile language and the violent behaviour of his guards. He had also called on the President to conduct his political campaigns with respect for citizens rather than abuse, and yesterday warned that such provocative language is damaging political, social and racial relations in this country.
fully passed its sixth consecutive performance assessment by the IMF Board. The visit during the year of the heads of both the IMF and the IDB (International Development Bank), signaled the international community’s respect and growing support for Jamaica’s discipline and success in implementing the painful but necessary economic reforms,” she said. Concerning job creation, she said while still not enough, there was a reduction in the overall unemployment. She added that the country welcomed new investments and built new infrastructure. According to the prime minister, her administration has resolved to “achieve greater levels of investment, economic growth and job creation in 2015, the government that I lead is also committed to preserving the social gains and the programmes to protect the less fortunate.”
She said Jamaica joins other nations in observing the start of the Decade for People of African Descent as declared by the United Nations. “Within the UN system and other global platforms, Jamaica will continue to participate actively in the Post 2015 Development Agenda as we advance equitable and sustainable development for all people,” Simpson Miller said. Leader of the opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), Andrew Holness in his message called on the government to among other things focus on better management of the public health system. “Regardless of our economic challenges, the health of Jamaicans must be a priority. The government must place resources in the Health Sector to support necessary services. A progressive society cannot hold the view that persons who are unable to pay for health care at the time
Portia Simpson Miller they need it, should be denied access.” Holness also welcomed the normalisation of relations between the US and Cuba and said Jamaica needs to re-examine its foreign policy with a view to focusing on the Northern Caribbean. Cuba, Haiti, and Dominican Republic. “All have markets that are at least three times the size of our population. It is true that while they are geographically close to us all the infrastructure for trade and investments may not presently exist. A part of our growth strategy must be how we position ourselves to participate in external markets,” he said.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar Howai said last month that Cabinet would soon decide on measures to deal with the declining revenue stream brought about by the rapid decline in the price for oil. Trinidad and Tobago’s 2015 national budget is based on a reference price of US$80 per barrel of oil and a gas price of US$2.75 cents per mnbtu. But in recent months, oil prices have dropped from a high of US$102.90 cents a barrel to below US$55 a barrel. Prime Minister PersadBissessar, who will face a general election this year, said that her Administration will table the Finance Bill in the Parliament on February 9, noting that the legislation “gives life and traction to the measures announced in the 2015 budget statement. “Following this debate, during the following week, I will also engage stakeholders in a discussion on the state of the economy, the way forward, and options for investment, growth, diversification and development,” PersadBissessar said. But she said she wanted to give the assurance to the country that “there will be no cut to affect the vulnerable and the underprivileged as well as health sector reform and crime fighting. The preservation of jobs is high on our agenda”. But Rowley said in a situation where the rest of the world, particularly those countries heavily influenced by hydrocarbon, are facing serious challenges “the prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago is trying to convince the population that we do not have a problem... to the extent that if we do have any kind of problem, she is on top of it. “What the country needs in these challenging times is leadership, honest leadership (and) what the prime minister is doing is to tell the population is that we do not have a problem,” Rowley said. PERSSAD-BISSESSAR... says the preservation of jobs is high on her Administration’s agenda
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Saturday January 03, 2015
Declarations short by 97,000 ounces…
Gold miners demand same incentives as big operators to stay alive As gold closed out a dismal 97,000 ounces short of its original 2014 target, local miners have stepped up calls for radical changes that will see real incentives to keep the industry alive for small and medium scale players. Gold declarations ended the year at just over 387,000 ounces. According to Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), it now wants almost the same benefits as the big operators with the time now for key mining policy changes. This is to allocate more of the fiscal “benefits currently enjoyed by large scale licencees to small and medium scale producers as well.” The association, in a strongly-worded statement, urged that these strategic changes be made immediately to “close the gap between the generous fiscal incentives awarded to large scale licencees”. Without those benefits local gold production would continue to decrease and the large scale licencees would be unable to make up the slack, the body said. “GGDMA is aware that short term strategic change to the fiscal regime for mining is not new to Guyana since the large scale bauxite operations currently benefit from substantially reduced or no royalty on the production of
bauxite.” It said that the strong, local capital investment in the gold mining sector must not be disrespected any longer. “The powerful multiplier effect of the local gold mining industry must not be hidden any longer. The right of the small miners to work in their chosen profession must be safeguarded. The opportunity for poverty alleviation through work in the local mining sector must be defended.” The situation is such that this year, Government must recognize that the aggregate
Government says it will soon start constructing an alternative link between Diamond and Eccles on the East Bank of Demerara, as part of long-term strategies to ease congestion in the area. During his New Year message to the nation, President Donald Ramotar also disclosed that a feasibility study, that will see a bypass linking the East Bank of Demerara to the East Coast, is completed. The projects have been in the pipeline for a while now and would spell good news for users of the East Bank corridor who daily have to contend with long lines. With regards to the alternative link between Diamond and Eccles, several of the housing schemes between the two areas already have roads that connect them. The alternative link is expected to start within the first half of the year.
One can literally start driving from Eccles through the housing schemes there to Herstelling. “In addition, the feasibility study for the East Coast – East Bank bypass road has been completed and we are discussing next steps to advance this project. This will catalyze US$65 million in investment, building 20 kilometres of roads and supporting infrastructure,” the President disclosed of the East Coast link. That project is expected to link Eccles to the back of Ogle. The East Bank Demerara public road is the most critical link in the country, leading to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Linden, the hinterland, and West Demerara. Meanwhile, with regards to Government’s housing program, the President noted that entire new communities have emerged where once the land lay wasted and
Local miners are demanding urgent incentives, similar to investors, to help the gold industry stay alive.
contribution of Guyana’s local gold sector is by far greater than the projected contribution of large scale operations and their foreign direct investments. “We call on the Government to improve the fiscal incentives for small and medium scale producers so that their contribution would not be strangled. Once again special congratulations to our local miners and best wishes and encouragement to the large scale licencees as they head to commencement of commercial production in the
near future.” Government had budgeted 484,562 ounces last year but after a contraction on the world prices, revised the target downwards to 450,000 ounces or a 6.5 percent decline. The first half of 2014 witnessed a 24.6 percent contraction in gold exports earnings to US$226.7M. Gold exports for the first half of 2014 declined 10 percent to 182,411 ounces. As a result, overall receipts from exports fell by 10.3 percent to US$534.2 million in the first half of 2014 compared to the corresponding period in 2013.
The gold industry achieved total declarations of 481,087 ounces in 2012, a record for the country, despite the falling prices then. Congratulating the miners, GGDMA noted that this came despite extreme pressure caused by the low price of gold and with only limited support from the government once again. “The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miner’s Association (GGDMA) congratulates local miners for their combined efforts to produce close to 390,000 ounces of
gold for the year 2014. Although this is a shortfall on the 2013 record of 481,000 ounces our small and medium scale (SMS) gold miners delivered a heroic performance in 2014.” GGDMA said it was confident that the operations of large scale operators – Canadian-owned Guyana Goldfields Inc. and Aussieowned, Troy Resources Guyana Inc, expected to start this year, will help to boost the production figures. The gold production shortfall would have severely affected revenue projections by Government with overall growth affected. Gold has been a mainstay for the economy in recent years until prices fell out in 2012, forcing several operators to curtail operations. Before that, it had been one of the fastest growing employers, with workers attracted by the high pay despite the grueling hours and dangerous working conditions. The spinoffs have seen the creation of numerous heavy machinery suppliers and other service providers. However, the price fall within the last two years, which has stabilized and hovering around US$1,200 per ounce, has become a major worry for miners, many of whom are heavily indebted to banks and suppliers.
Construction to start soon on Eccles/Diamond alternative road link - Pres. Ramotar Diamond intersection: Govt has announced plans to start construction soon on an alternative road link between Diamond and Eccles to ease congestion.
unoccupied. “Tens of thousands of Guyanese families’ have realised the dream of home ownership. Gone are the days when this dream was out of the reach of the average hard working Guyanese.”
The housing sector has seen “impressive” growth over the past five years. “From 2009 to 2014 the budget allocated to the sector has grown by 400%. In 2009, the Ministry was implementing 51 projects, now in 2014; there
are 170 projects under implementation. The sector has been a boon for job creation, directly creating 3,500 jobs in 2014, a figure that is projected to grow to 4,250 in 2015.” According to Ramotar, his administration
has also launched a “one thousand” home initiative for working class families. “The young professionals’ pilot programme was successfully completed and a new era in urban planning is beckoning.”
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
Antigua-Barbuda and Montserrat forge closer ties BRADES, Montserrat — Prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne and premier of Montserrat Donaldson Romeo, each just months into their first term in office, have pledged to forge closer ties between their governments and peoples. On Monday, Browne, accompanied by Permanent Secretary Ambassador Colin Murdoch, paid a goodwill and friendship visit to Montserrat, during which he was introduced to members of the island’s Cabinet and toured the Montserrat Museum, sand mining operations in Belham, the geothermal project, the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, the Marine Village, the Sports Centre and received a helicopter tour of the volcano and surrounding areas. “I am delighted to welcome our Prime Minister from Antigua and Barbuda to Montserrat and to officially advise him that Montserrat is open for business – seeing the old and the new and to witness the start of our project called Ash to Cash which will involve the immense volume of sand available in Montserrat from volcanic activity that will be beneficial to
Antigua and Barbuda in the near future. Today’s visit signals the start of new and improved relations between our two countries,” Romeo said. In announcing the establishment of a joint commission to explore areas of cooperation between the two countries, Browne said that Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat have had very close relations spanning many decades that involved free movement of people long before the phrase was adopted by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) or Caribbean Community (CARICOM) groupings. “My impression prior to this visit was that Montserrat was totally devastated by the volcano, not realizing that you still have a beautiful and viable country. From what I have seen, you still have a significant amount of potential and what I believe is required is for you to build your infrastructure and I am quite confident that Montserrat someday will become a selfsustaining country and anything Antigua and Barbuda can do to assist you in building capacity, and to share in the socio economic infrastructure development, we
are more than willing to do so,” Browne said. Both leaders, in addition to announcing the establishment of the joint commission, revealed that Antigua and Barbuda will provide scholarships to Montserratians upon the opening of the University of Antigua and Barbuda, pursue joint ownership of a barge to be used in sand mining, which will reduce cost to both countries, and collaborate on bringing Cabinet documents and visa applications online. Both leaders also pledged to collaborate in tourism, agriculture and social transformation with Browne confirming that he will be making representation to the British government on behalf of displaced Montserratians living in Antigua and Barbuda for housing and other services. Recently, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda reduced tonnage fees for sand and ferry fees between both islands were reduced from EC$75 to EC$50, which will become effective in under two weeks. Romeo, who was elected into office on September 11, has strong links with Antigua and Barbuda – his father being Antiguan by birth.
Trinidad Guardian - Despite the new year being marred by the murder of pensioner Vernon Carter, National Security Minister Gary Griffith assured that the law enforcement bodies will continue to display the determination to keep crime and criminal elements at bay. Griffith also boasted that homicides and serious crimes were drastically reduced when compared to the previous years. He said this would not have been be possible without hard-working lawmen who continued to risk their lives for the country. “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the hard-working men and women of our combined law enforcement community for the sterling performance demonstrated in the last 12 months. “Immense thanks to all the heads of divisions who made this possible, including the acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams and the Chief of Defence Staff
Major General Kenrick Maharaj who rallied the troops on a daily basis to ensure criminals were pegged back,” Griffith said in an interview yesterday. He said in the latter part of 2014, due to a massive effort by the Ministry of National Security, there was a major reduction in homicides which resulted in a reduced homicide rate when compared to 2013. Saying there was also a reduction in violent crimes Griffith added, “2014 set a record for with the lowest number of serious crimes in this country in 31 years. It must be noted that 2014 could not have ended on a better note given that in the last two weeks of the year this country recorded the lowest homicide rate in comparison to the corresponding period for the last six years.” He said in 2014 there were 11,600 serious crimes which, compared to five years ago in 2009, was over 22,000. “What this
means is that there was one less serious crime every hour throughout the year when compared to 2009. The last full year before we were in office there was one less murder, one less rape, one less kidnapping or attempted kidnapping, one less car theft, one less assault, one less incident of armed robbery or grievous bodily harm every hour,” Griffith said. Focusing on incidents which brought the Police Service into disrepute Griffith urged the public not to lose confidence. “It would be remiss of me to not touch on the couple of issues that brought the protective services into disrepute in the closing month of the year, but in a team this size there would unfortunately be members who lose their way. “That must not be allowed to affect the morale of those who remain focused on our mission to make T&T crime-free, and it certainly should not affect the confidence placed in us by the public,” Griffith added.
Griffith: We’ll keep criminals at bay
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Search teams battle rough weather in hunt for AirAsia wreck (Reuters) - Ships and aircraft criss-crossed the seas off Borneo yesterday hunting for the wreck of an Indonesia AirAsia passenger jet, but bad weather again hindered the search for the plane and the black box flight recorders that should reveal why it crashed. An official said 30 bodies had been recovered, along with pieces of the broken-up plane, in the Indonesian-led search for Flight QZ8501 that is concentrated on 1,575 square nautical miles of the northern Java Sea. Strong winds and heavy seas have stopped divers from looking for the fuselage of the Airbus A320-200, which plunged into the water on Sunday while en route from Indonesia’s second-biggest city Surabaya to Singapore with 162 people on board. “Waves were between 3 and 4 meters today, making it difficult to load bodies onto ships and between ships,” Fransiskus Bambang Soelistyo, head of Indonesia’s search and rescue agency, told reporters in Jakarta, adding that some vessels would search through the night. “Tonight we are sending tug boats which should make the (body) transfers easier.” He said two of the 30 bodies found were strapped to their plane seats. The multinational search operation based in Pangkalan Bun, the town in southern Borneo closest to the search area, was bolstered yesterday by experts from France’s BEA accident investigation agency, which attends all Airbus crashes. Officials said the French team’s hydrophones - sophisticated underwater acoustic detection devices and towed sonar equipment brought by other international experts could not be
used on Friday because of high waves. But naval vessels from Indonesia, the United States and Singapore with in-built anti-submarine capabilities were using sonar to sweep the sea floor. STALLTHEORY The cause of the crash, the first suffered by the AirAsia group since the budget operator began flying in 2002, is unexplained. Investigators are working on a theory that the plane stalled as it climbed steeply to avoid a storm about 40 minutes into a flight that should have lasted two hours. Officials earlier said it may take up to a week to find the black boxes, which investigators hope will unravel the sequence of events in the cockpit during the doomed jet’s final minutes. “After the black box is found, we are able to issue a preliminary report in one month,” said Toos Sanitioso, an investigator with the National Committee for Transportation Safety. “We cannot yet speculate what caused the crash.” Even in bad weather, the search for the AirAsia plane is less technically challenging than the two-year search for an Air France jet that crashed into deep Atlantic waters in 2009, or the fruitless hunt for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 that disappeared last year. Given Flight QZ8501 crashed in shallow seas, experts say finding the boxes should not be difficult if its locator beacons, with a range of 2,000 to 3,000 meters (6,560 to 9,800 ft) and a battery life of about 30 days, are working. Bodies plucked from the sea are being taken in numbered coffins to Surabaya, where relatives of the victims, most of whom were Indonesian, have gathered. Authori-
ties have been collecting DNA from relatives to help identify the bodies. The first funeral of one of the crash victims was held on Thursday, and on Friday officials said the remains of three more had been identified, including a flight attendant. AirAsia boss Tony Fernandes tweeted that he would accompany the body of one victim home from Surabaya. “I’m arriving in Surabaya to take Nisa home to Palembang,” he wrote. “I cannot describe how I feel. There are no words.” “ U N B E L I E VA B LY” STEEP CLIMB The plane was traveling at 32,000 ft (9,753 meters) and the pilots had asked to climb to 38,000 ft to avoid bad weather just before contact was lost. When air traffic controllers granted permission to fly at 34,000 ft a few minutes later, they got no response. A source close to the investigation said radar data appeared to show the aircraft made an “unbelievably” steep climb before it crashed, possibly pushing it beyond the A320’s limits. Hadi Mustofa Djuraid, a Transport Ministry official, told reporters that authorities were investigating the possibility that the pilot did not ask for a weather report from the meteorological agency at the time of takeoff. He added that pilots were required to do so before flying. Indonesia AirAsia’s president director, Sunu Widyatmoko, said in a text message: “We will make a release shortly” on that aspect of the investigation. The Indonesian captain, a former air force fighter pilot, had 6,100 flying hours on the A320 and the plane last underwent maintenance in midNovember, according to Indonesia AirAsia, 49 percent owned by Malaysia-based AirAsia. Three airline disasters involving Malaysian-affiliated planes in under a year have spooked travelers. Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 disappeared in March en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing with 239 passengers and crew and has not been found. On July 17, the same airline’s Flight MH17 was shot down over Ukraine, killing all 298 people on board. On board Flight QZ8501 were 155 Indonesians, three South Koreans, and one person each from Singapore, Malaysia and Britain. The copilot was French.
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2014 was most successful year for Guyana’s cricket... From page 29 and Devendra Bishoo (21) are the top wicket-takers when the first phase of the FourDay Franchise ended in December 2014. The NAGICO Super50 began Regional cricket for the year and the entire tournament was played in Trinidad and Tobago. Guyana were beaten in the semi-finals by seven wickets by Barbados in the Day/Night fixture at the Queens Park Oval. Deonarine made 58 as Guyana made 181 before the Bajans replied with 182-3 in 46 overs. Guyana began with a 114-run win against Ireland with Shiv Chanderpaul (79) and Trevon Griffith (62) putting on 129 for the first wicket before Sarwan weighed in with an unbeaten 89. On the back of half-centuries from Fudadin, Sarwan and Barnwell, Guyana beat the Windwards by 22 runs before losing by 10 runs to Jamaica despite 65 from Chanderpaul
as many of the Guyana players were struck down by illness. Barbados beat T&T in the final and Guyana were still without a 50over title since 2005. Guyana began their First-Class campaign in February in Jamaica and Sarwan and Chanderpaul pulled out on the morning of the game with injuries. Jamaica won by seven wickets despite 73 from Visual Singh, 5-76 from Veerasammy Permaul and a 42-run last wicket stand between Keon Joseph and Ronsford Beaton. Guyana returned to Providence, and without a win against Barbados on home soil since 1984, lost to the Bajans by 136 runs even though Chattergoon (50) and Tagenarine Chanderpaul (41) put on 92 for the first wicket before Guyana slumped to 140 all out. Davendra Bishoo took 5-71 but Guyana crumbled for 94 to lose their second match in a row. Guyana then drew with the Windwards at Providence when Sunil Ambris scored 114 on debut. Assad Fudadin made 82 and Permaul took 7-49. Guyana then traveled
for a Day/Night game in Barbados to face CCC, who they hammered them by seven wickets despite half-centuries from Fudadin and Bramble. Hundreds from Shacoya Thomas and Chadwick Walton compounded Guyana’s woes. In Antigua, the Leewards beat Guyana by five wickets although Leon Johnson scored the only ton by a Guyanese for the season which got progressively worse for the South Americans. Guyana returned home for their final match and drew with T&T with Bishoo claiming the best bowling figures by a Guyanese when he bagged 9-78. Johnson (78), Barnwell (50) and Zaheer Mohamed (58) got fifties before Bishoo snatched 6-71 to end with (15-149) the second best match figures in the history of Regional cricket as Guyana the season without a single victory. The GCB held an inquest to investigate the poor performance and concluded that negativity and ‘playing for self’ instead of country, was the main
Saturday January 03, 2015 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You may feel a great deal of nervous energy today, Aries. Tension could come to you from all angles. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Issues having to do with love and romance are in your favor today, Taurus. You're more in touch with your emotions. You will find that your attitude toward love is more grounded than usual. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Issues having to do with love and romance are in your favor today, Taurus. You're more in touch with your emotions. You will find that your attitude toward love is more grounded than usual.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You may have many irons in the fire today, Libra. People and projects could demand your attention,yetyoumayfeelsodreamy and unmotivated that it could be hard to make progress on any of them. Creative solutions are the best route for you. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) This is going to be a great day for you, Scorpio. Strangely enough, you will find that tension may help you get things done. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) If you continue to let your brain do all the work, you will probably miss valuable information that can only come when you slow down and look within.
CANCER (June 21–July 22) Issues regarding love and romance should be going well for you now. You will find that your natural tendency to ground and plan is working perfectly with your desire to find what you want in a mate.
CAPRI (Dec.22–Jan.19) This is an excellent day for you. You will find that things automatically flow your way. You will receive more attention than usual and be the center of any social gathering.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Connect with your sensitive side and feel free to spend time on artistic projects. You may have to take a more grounded approach when it comes to matters of love.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) It could be hard to drag yourself out of bed. In terms of love and romance, there's apt to be some tension, as one part of you wants to make plans while another part is feeling up in the air and in the clouds.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You will be able to find a greater connection to your inner soul today, Virgo. You will also find that you're more psychic than usual. Trust your intuition.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Love and romance are apt to be going quite well for you now, Pisces. You should find that it's easier to be yourself in a partnership.
reason for one of the worst showings by Guyana in recent times. Guyana played unbeaten in the group stage in the Regional Women’s tournament in Dominica. In the semi-finals at the picturesque Botanical Gardens the Guyanese lasses beat Barbados by three wickets before losing by 218 runs to champions Jamaica in the final. Natasha McLean hit eight sixes and eight fours in an explosive 96 and along with Chenille Henry (85) flayed the Guyanese girls to all parts of the Windsor Park ground to gallop to 309 in 50 overs. Guyana were shot out for 91 with Haseena Mohamed, who took two wickets, top-scoring with 19. Off-spinner Phaffiana Millington andAkaze Thompson also took wickets for Guyana to give them the runner-up spot. Tremayne Smartt was outstanding throughout the tournament despite not shining in the final and later for her efforts copped the Guyana female cricketer of the year award. In Jamaica, Guyana’s under15 team won four of their five games to top the points table with 24 points Alphius Bookie, Steve Deonarine, Joshua Persaud, Kris Ramnarine, Kevin Sinclair, Bhaskar Yadram all scored half-centuries in a solid Guyana batting performance. Colin Barlow and Yadram captured six wickets each while offspinner Sagar Hetheramani had five wickets. Guyana finished fourth in the Regional under-17 tournament in Tobago as only Adrian Sukwah, Sherfane Rutherford and Kemo Paul reached 100 runs or scored a half-century in the tournament. Paul was the only bowler with 10 wickets, while Ricardo Ali Mohammed and Rutherford reached five wickets. Guyana played unbeaten in both the Regional Three-Day and 50-over competitions that were played in Guyana to win the ‘double’ for the first time while their three-day title was their first since 2008 in St Kitts. West Indies openers Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Shemron Hetmyer scored hundreds in both versions, while Kemo Paul andAkashay Homraj had fifties in both formats also. Leg-spinner Steven Sankar (13) had the most wickets in the threeday tournament while Shiraz Ramcharran had 12 wickets. The Guyana Jaguars played consistently good cricket in every session except for that one unforgettable morning of the final day of their third round encounter against Barbados Pride, when set 69 to win, they slumped to their second lowest total ever and were bowled out for 67 to suffer an unbelievable two-run defeat. That apart, it was an almost flawless performance by the Jaguars, who roared to three wins in the first four games in the first
phase of the WICB Four-Day First-Class Cricket Franchise before the tournament took a break for Christmas. On a slow, spin friendly Providence track the Jaguars whipped the Windwards and Leewards as Narsingh Deonarine scored back-to-back centuries (110* & 139) and Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul (who had two eightwicket hauls) and Deonarine conspired to spin webs round the opposition batsmen. Shiv Chanderpaul made 62 as the Jaguars fell nine short of a 300 total, a score they would reach twice in the first four games as the batsman consistently provided scores for their bowlers to successfully defend. Wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble’s responsible 73 rescued his team from 139-6 to a 250 plus total after West Indies under-19 opener Shimron Hetmyer played with refreshing maturity to fall three short of a maiden half-century to leave Jaguars scenting blood against the Bajans going into final day. What transpired after that was due to sheer reckless batting and was described as ‘complacency’ by Vishaul Singh on his Captaincy debut. Out to prove that the unexpected win by Barbados was just a rare bad session this season, the Jaguars ripped the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force to shreds with a commanding innings & 60-
run mauling in Port-of-Spain in their first game away from home with Singh leading from the front with an accomplished 141. Rajendra Chandrika (60), Bajan Raymond Reifer (58), Chris Barnwell (65*) and Permaul (50*) all contributed fifties as the Jaguars made 492-8 declared. The Jaguars were easily the most consistent team with two totals over 250, one over 300 and another close to 500. Deonarine (2) and Singh were among the seven batsmen to score centuries while Permaul’s 33 wickets were 12 more than leg-spinners Imran Khan and Devendra Bishoo, who have the second most scalps with 21 each. Permaul showed all-round ability with his unbeaten 50, his second First-Class half-century, and earned for himself a pick in the World Cup 30-man squad. All-rounders Reifer and Barnwell were both steady with their medium pace and could be key players when the Regional Super50 starts on January 15 in T&T. Despite their unexpected defeat to Barbados, the Jaguars maintained their lead throughout the first phase to accumulate 57 points at the break. Meanwhile, on the local front Demerara won the senior fourday Inter-County title, while Berbice took the 50-over title. Berbice took the female Senior Inter-County tournament .
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Lebron James leads fan BENNETT SATISFIED WITH SUPER50 SQUAD vote for NBA All-Star slot Jamaica Observer Kingston, Jamaica Jamaica’s cricket coach Junior Bennett expects out-ofform wicketkeeper/batsman Carlton Baugh to bounce back after being overlooked for the Regional Super50 tournament, set to start on January 15 in Trinidad & Tobago. The wicketkeeper’s slot in the 14-man squad is filled by Horace Miller, a 25-year-old player known more for his batting than his work with the gloves. “Carlton is a quality player... he is struggling a bit at the moment, so Horace Miller has been given the opportunity to keep wicket. We hope he’ll do his best,” Bennett told the Jamaica Observer. “We know Carlton and the kind of player he is and we expect him to get back into form. He’s the first-class (fourday tournament) ‘keeper and he’s in training still because the first-class season resumes in February. Baugh, 32, who has 12 first-class centuries to his name, has noticeably struggled with the bat of late. The sidelined West Indies player batted in three of Jamaica’s four matches in the first-half of the revamped fourday tournament and has a top score of 31 in six innings. Overall, Bennett expressed satisfaction with the composition of the Nikita Miller-captained squad, which features a few rookies. Left-arm swing bowler Gavon Brown, medium pacer Derval Green and left-arm wrist spinner Dennis Bulli have never played for the senior national team. Leg spinner Damion Jacobs and quick bowler Marquino Mindley
have limited experience in the four-day format, but both are uncapped in 50-over cricket. While Jamaica have won six four-day titles since the 2004-05 season, they have only topped two 50-over campaigns in that time. Bennett, who has been at the helm throughout most of those seasons, is positive that the mixture of youthful and senior players could reap rewards. He also welcomed the return of experienced toporder batsman Danza Hyatt, who was controversially dropped ahead of last season’s tournament. “We have about five new faces who haven’t played One-day cricket for Jamaica. We are hoping they can go out and give a good account of themselves. We have a talented squad with a fair balance. Once we go out and execute efficiently we should be very competitive in the tournament. “The faster bowlers have been doing well and they can all do something with the ball. The spin attack is led by Nikita Miller and we have Dennis Bulli and Damion Jacobs. People might say a few of them haven’t played One-Day cricket
From page 29 defeated Agricola Red Triangle (1-0), Victoria Kings 5-3 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 regulation and extra time stalemate. The score line was similar in their semi final clash against Cougars. In the third place playoff, Cougars looked a shadow of themselves as they failed to display any of the previous spark showed in earlier matches. That was not the case with New Amsterdam United who nailed their opponents early in the piece. By the 10th minute New Amsterdam were 3-0 up, many of the fans were left in awe when they heard the score line. The usual scorers for New Amsterdam were on target early, Leonardo Adams
(3rd), Rondel Hazel (5th) and Adrian Adams in the 10th. Cougars finally showed that they are a much more solid unit by pulling one back three minutes into the second half, Alvin Reynolds doing the honours. That goal brought back some confidence to the Cougars unit but the deficit was way too much for them to pull back. They stood up much better in the half but could not keep out the NA boys for the entire half. Adrian Adams tucked in his 9th of the tournament three minutes to full time while Hazel completed his double in the second minute of added on time to seal Cougars’ fate, 5-1. The presentation of cash and individual prizes will be done next week.
Coach Junior Bennett (left) watches his charges go through their paces. for Jamaica before, but they have the quality. “Danza is back and looking fairly good, so we just hope that he and [Tamar] Lambert and other senior players really stand up and we can get good team totals,” he said. The veteran coach said favourable weather and good discipline shown by the players throughout the holidays mean they are in prime physical condition. “They are in excellent condition and I’m pleased with where they are right now. We break for the new year and then return for the final phase [of training] on Saturday and we’ll have the first of two practice games on Sunday.” Jamaica are scheduled to open their Super50 account against Leeward Islands on January 16 in Port of Spain. Jamaica squad — Nikita Miller (capt), Tamar Lambert, John Campbell, Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, Andre McCarthy, Danza Hyatt, Horace Miller, David Bernard, Damion Jacobs, Marquino Mindley, Derval Green, Gavon Brown, Dennis Bulli.
NEW YORK, USA (AFP) — Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James led updated fan voting totals announced Thursday that will eventually decide starters for next month’s 64th NBA All-Star Game. Four-time NBA Most Valuable Player James, who has missed Cleveland’s past two games with a sore left knee, is averaging 25.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 7.6 assists a game. He turned 30 on Tuesday. James owns the top spot with 775,810 votes with Golden State’s Stephen Curry second at 755,486 in balloting for berths in the elite showdown set for New York on February 15. Voting ends on January 19 and the results will be announced by the league three days later. James is joined in the Eastern Conference forward line by Chicago’s Spanish big man Pau Gasol, who has 372,109 votes, and New York star Carmelo Anthony, who has 365,449 votes despite the Knicks’ awful 5-29 record. Miami’s Chris Bosh is the nearest player chasing an East forward starting spot in fourth place at 283,899. Washington Wizards standout John Wall leads Eastern Conference guards with 439,395 votes and Miami veteran Dwyane Wade holds the other backcourt spot on 396,757. Australian Kyrie Irving of Cleveland ranks third, 88,030 votes behind Wade. Curry is joined in the Western Conference backcourt voting leaders by Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers with 694,665. Houston’s James Harden, the NBA scoring leader, ranks third on 516,514.
LeBron James (right) of the Cleveland Cavaliers grabs the rebound against the Detroit Pistons during the game on December 28, 2014, at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. The West frontline vote leaders feature Anthony Davis of the New Orleans Pelicans with 732,154, Blake Griffin of the Los Angeles Clippers with 403,415 and Memphis big man Marc Gasol, Pau’s brother, with 343,587.
San Antonio’s Tim Duncan ranks fourth among West forward on 288,235 with 2013-14 NBA Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant, who has missed all but 10 games for Oklahoma City this season, was fifth with 254,448.
Grove Hi Tech flay... Treacle returns to winning ways at Rising... From page 31 Swing Easy for the $500,000 top money over 1400M. Rosetta and Spit Fire rounded out the takings. Settling Star of the Shariff Stable with Jamaican Kevin Blake on the hunch took some time before it settled in front of the pack to win the two Year Old West Indies event. For winning, Settling Star took home the $340,000 and trophy ahead of Loch Song, It’s My Choice and She Running Hard. Top Sprinter Appealing Harvest of the Jumbo Jet stable with Colin Ross did its best to keep out Stable mate Release the Beast for the $300,000 money and trophy as the 1100M G class event with
Mr Nasrudeen Mohammed junior and wife received the G class trophy from Rehan Habibulla of the organising committee for She So Special victory. Cassie and Damascus Dream third and fourth respectively. The G3 Maiden and H and
Lower 1100M event saw She So Special of the Jumbo Jet stable with Ross again on the
perch putting in a special effort to outdo Send From Above, Super Bowl and Mary Ann to take the $240,000 and trophy. Red Jet of the Shamsundar stable with Norville the rider won the J1 and lower race over 1100M from The Gump, Royal Cash and Smarty Light. Speed Vision ridden by Kevin Paul of the Khan stable showed tremendous speed down the home stretch in the 1100M race to beat out Smarty Light for the win ahead of Royal Intention and Red Region. The champion stable was again Jumbo Jet with Randolph Richmond being the champion jockey on show and Carlton ‘Black Mouth’ Pluck the top trainer.
Saturday January 03, 2015
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James to miss two Religious Service ushers in RHTY&SC weeks with strained Silver Jubilee anniversary knee and back pain Multi-million Christmas Charity Programme
Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) reacts on the sidelines against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at Philips Arena. Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports (Reuters) - Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James is expected to out of action for two weeks while he receives treatment for a strained left knee and lower back pain, the National Basketball Association (NBA) team said on Thursday. James, 30, was evaluated on Wednesday at the Cleveland Clinic where he had a magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) exam and radiograph tests. The team said on its website that the four-time NBA most valuable player will be treated with antiinflammatories, rehabilitation, training room treatments and rest. James is averaging a teamhigh 25.2 points per game for the Cavaliers who have the fifth best record in the Eastern Conference at 18-14.
LONDON, England (AFP) — Harry Kane starred as Tottenham Hotspur crushed Chelsea 5-3 in a New Year’s Day blockbuster to leave Jose Mourinho’s side dead-level with Manchester City at the Premier League summit. Kane, a 21-year-old Spurs youth-team graduate, scored twice and had a hand in two other goals as Mourinho conceded five goals for only the second time in his managerial career. It left Chelsea and City with completely identical records, after former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard had scored the decisive goal in the champions’ 3-2 win over Sunderland. Diego Costa put Chelsea ahead in the 18th minute at White Hart Lane by tapping in Oscar’s shot after Eden Hazard had hit the post, but Kane drilled in from the edge of the box on the halfhour. Danny Rose put Spurs ahead in the 44th minute and Andros Townsend extended the hosts’ lead from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time after Kane had been felled by Gary Cahill. Nacer Chadli teed up Kane to make it 4-1 early in the second half and Kane returned the favour after Hazard had reduced the arrears, with Chelsea captain John Terry netting a further consolation in the 87th minute. Earlier,
Lampard had celebrated the extension of his loan move from City’s sister club New York City FC by coming off the bench to score the winner against Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium. City, who left goalkeeper Joe Hart on the bench, went 2-0 up through a sensational 22-yard shot from Yaya Toure and a neat finish by Stevan Jovetic. But just as they had done in Sunday’s 22 draw with Burnley, City allowed Sunderland back into the game, with City old boys Jack Rodwell and Adam Johnson, with a penalty, drawing the visitors level. However, just three minutes after replacing Jovetic, Lampard headed home a cross from Gael Clichy to claim his seventh goal of the campaign. Third-placed Manchester United lost further momentum after drawing 1-1 with Stoke City at a windy Britannia Stadium, where Radamel Falcao cancelled out Ryan Shawcross’s second-minute opener. Southampton tightened their grip on fourth place and closed to within a point of United by winning 2-0 at home to Arsenal, who fell three points off the Champions League places as a result. Sadio Mane curled home from a narrow angle on the right after Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny went walkabout in the 34th minute,
Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) which was formed in 1990 by three-time Commonwealth Youth Service Awardee, the St. Francis Community Developers, on Sunday last officially ushered in its Silver Jubilee celebrations with a religious service at the St. Joseph Anglican Church. Executives and members of the church attended the service which was conducted by Father Abel Nq’andeve Musonda. The service included several cultural presentations while the club also distributed food hampers to five senior citizens of the church. Toys were also shared out to children attending the service. In addition, male attendees were presented with a Christmas gift, while the RHTY&SC handed over special gifts to Father Abel Nq’andeve Musonda and Ms. Sonia Leow for their outstanding contribution to the church. RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO
Hilbert Foster in brief remarks informed that the club was proud to celebrate twentyfive years of unbelievable progress, while disclosing that 2015 would be celebrated as the Silver Jubilee Year with a total of 200 programmes/activities planned under the sub-headings of sports, education, anti-suicide, community development, youth development, charity, awards and religious. Foster informed the attentive congregation that over the years, the club had made a positive difference in the lives of tens of thousands of persons and would continue to do so in the future. He also announced that this year will see emphasis being placed on the club’s nursery cricket section in an effort to produce new talent. Special emphasis would also be placed on religious activities as the club continues to place faith in God. Father Abel Nq’andeve Musonda praised the club for its outstanding contribution and expressed confidence that
the next twenty five years would be as successful as the past. The cricket teams of the club along with its over – 35 sections also successfully completed a multi-million Charity Programme for the Christmas season as part of the Silver Jubilee launching. Hundreds of less fortunate families received food hampers, while thousands of children received a toy for Christmas. Senior citizens were also treated to a Christmas luncheon and received numerous gifts while 40 orphans at the Camal Children’s Home in Albion also received special attention. A massive feeding programme was also organised for less fortunate residents while numerous churches and NGO’s received footwear, toys, food items and special gifts for distribution to their members. The RHTYSC is expressing gratitude to all the donors of the 2015 Christmas Charity Programme especially Demerara Distillers Limited,
Hilbert Foster Ansa McAl, DeSinco Trading, H.A. Snacks Ltd., Toucan Industries, NAMILCO, Cirkel Distributors, Southland International, Busta, Sterling Products Ltd, Sentinel Security, Universal DVD, Bank of Nova Scotia, Beharry’s, Suriea Sweets, Food for the Poor, F&H Printery, Churches Chicken, Goodwood Racing Service, The Gift Centre, Farfan and Mendes Ltd, Bounty Farm Ltd, John Lewis Styles, Lens Craft Oprical, A.M Khan Ltd, Apex Insurance Brokers, Ministry of Public Service, Starr Computers, DTV – 8, Gilgeous Pawn Shop, Ricks and Sari Ltd, Narine’s Trading and Gizmos and Gadgets among others.
CRACKING 2015 START TO PREMIER LEAGUE As Spurs crush Chelsea 5-3; Southampton blank Arsenal 2-0 with Dusan Tadic adding a second in the 56th minute after a defensive mix-up. Freshly appointed West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis watched from the stands as his new club drew 1-1 at West Ham United, with Saido Berahino cancelling out Diafra Sakho’s neatly constructed 10th-minute opener. The result kept West Brom a point above the relegation zone. Second-bottom Burnley showed extraordinary spirit to come from behind three times and force a 3-3 draw at Newcastle United, whose manager, Alan Pardew, is on the verge of joining Crystal Palace. Steven Taylor, Jack Colback and Moussa Sissoko scored for Newcastle, but Burnley, who lost three players to injury in the first half, hit back each time through a Paul Dummett own goal and goals from Danny Ings and George Boyd. Pardew was in the stands to watch Palace draw 0-0 at Aston Villa, ahead of his expected appointment as the successor to the sacked Neil Warnock. Liverpool’s recent momentum was curbed as they threw away a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 at home to bottom club Leicester City, which left
Chelsea’s Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic (left) vies with Tottenham Hotspur’s Argentinian defender Federico Fazio during their English Premier League match at White Hart Lane in London. them seven points below the top four in eighth place. A pair of first-half Steven Gerrard penalties put Liverpool in control, but two goals in two minutes by David Nugent and Jeffrey
Schlupp prevented Brendan Rodgers’s side from registering a third successive win. Substitute Wilfried Bony earned Swansea City a 1-1 draw at Queens Park Rangers, cancelling out Leroy Fer’s
20th-minute thunderbolt with a cool stoppage-time strike. Meanwhile, Ahmed Elmohamady and Nikica Jelavic scored unanswered goals as Hull City condemned Everton to a fourth straight loss.
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Lambert hails Gregory Richardson, Dwight Peters “balanced” J’ca squad sink GDF as Alpha FC cart off the spoils 4th Annual GFA/Banks Cup Round Robin Knockout tournament..
By Michael Benjamin They have won numerous accolades, earning the envious tab of the best local football unit and the players of Alpha ‘The Hammer’ United FC endorsed that status with a clinical 3 nil defeat over arch rivals, Guyana Defence Force, to take the championship honours when the curtains came down on the 4th Annual GFA/Banks Cup Round Robin Knockout tournament at the National Stadium, Providence last Thursday evening. Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson contributed a brace in the 63rd and 67th minutes and assisted Dwight Peters who duly netted in the 87th minute. The win has made Alpha three million dollars richer while their prolific striker, Daniel Wilson, carted off two prestigious prizes, the Most Valuable Player and the player to score the most goals in the competition (11). Ronson Williams was Alpha’s goalie and his theatrics contained the opposition throughout the tournament, conceding just one goal to Western Tigers in their semi-finals matchup. His efforts were noted and he justly received the prize for the being the best goalkeeper. Blackwater FC had endured a 17-0 mauling at the hands of Alpha during the preliminary stages of the tournament but drew some consolation after clinching the award for the most disciplined unit. In the third place playoff, Pele eked out a 1-0 victory over Western Tigers after a fruitless first session for both teams. Deon Alfred eventually broke the stalemate in the 57th minute after a goal scrimmage that saw the ball bouncing dangerously close to the ‘Tiger’s’ goal mouth for several breath-taking minutes before Alfred extricated himself from the confusion to tap in a simple shot. The ‘Tigers’ are known for their fighting spirit but that variable seemed to have been lost in earlier matches and they meekly succumbed to their nemesis. The Alpha/GDF shindig was contested before a fair sized crowd and the early exchanges were fierce as both teams attempted to assert themselves. Richardson was
presented with the first opportunity to score after wending his way up to the soldiers’ defence line. He encountered an impregnable wall and was forced into a premature kick that slid down the side of the GDF goalpost. Wilson is a dangerous player and when he attempted to break into the opposition’s territory, he was met by a staunch defence cordon. He diligently passed the ball to Dwayne Jacobs who sent in a wayward shot that slid down the side of the opposition’s goal. Wilson then took matters into his own hand and performed a solo before unleashing a mighty kick to the GDF goal. His effort evaporated to naught after the army’s custodian, Carl Stephenson, flung himself to the right and intercepted the ball. By now the game had picked up pace and Manuel Vargas blazed past the GDF midfielders, searching for the advantage but his strike was poorly timed and the ball flew over the uprights. The Alpha team was really enjoying a large percentage of ball possession and Wilson featured once again when he dribbled down the centre and gifted Peters a dolly of a pass on the right flank. It isn’t often that Peters errs but faced with a strong opposition defence crew, he could only manage a mistimed kick that posed no danger to the soldiers’ cordon. The soldiers eventually upped the ante and Tyson Carmichael skillfully dribbled to Alpha’s goal but was brought down by one of the defenders, a play that the referee ruled was a bit too harsh and awarded a free kick. Eusi Phillips took the kick and swirled the ball around the improvised wall, straight into the hands of Williams. In the meantime, Peters and Richardson were working in tandem and when the former player dribbled down the right wing and gifted the latter a pass, the crowd screamed in anticipation but the noise subsided after Richardson’s kick failed to find its mark. It was the final opportunity and both teams went in at the intermission stalemated nil all. The heated exchanges continued into the second
session and both goalkeepers were tested to the hilt as the respective frontline players raided the goals. The army then made their first change as Clifton Garraway sprinted onto the field. The soldiers then intensified their efforts and the fans were entertained with the forceful brand of play they are noted for. They kept the ball in Alpha’s territory forcing them to tighten the defence cordon; they did a remarkable job despite several close shaves and managed to retain the nil all stalemate. ‘The Hammers’ then wrung in the changes and Travis Grant was called in for Sheldon Holder. All this time, Richardson continued to work hard and when he was gifted a pass just in front of the Army’s goal his eyes lit up as he sent in a powerful shot that settled in the network leaving the army custodian, Carl Stephenson, transfixed. Dwain Jacobs then got into the act and weaved his way to the army’s goal before sending in a thunderous kick which the GDF custodian disdainfully chucked over the bar. The applause had barely subsided when Richardson dribbled his way past the GDF defence to send in his second goal to cheers of his fans. Daniel Wilson soon got into the act but was forced to shoot the ball from an impossibly sharp angle which spoiled his effort. Richardson was on fire and was wending his way to the opposition’s goal when he was crowded by their defenders. He exhibited superb presence of mind and gifted a pass to Peters who simply tapped it past the advancing keeper to strengthen Alpha’s advantage. To their credit, the soldiers fought gallantly and matched their opponent’s aggression. At any other day, this might have been to their advantage but Alpha were not to be denied, retaining their advantage right down to the final whistle. The soldiers won $1.5 million, while Pele took home $1M; Western Tigers received $500,000. Earlier, Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds led an entourage that met the teams prior to the first whistle. He was joined by Chairman of the Normalization Committee, Clinton Urling, Alpha’s President and Vice President, Odinga Lumumba and Steve Ninvalle respectively, Banks DIH executives, Carlton Joao and Troy Peters and GFA President Vernon Burnette.
Jamaica Gleaner KIngston, Jamaica - Former national one-day captain, Tamar Lambert, believes the 14-man squad that has been named to represent the Jamaica Franchise during this month’s WICB/NAGICO Insurance Super50 Tournament is an improvement on last year’s selections. The squad, which is currently in training for the January 15 to 25 competition, sees the return of bighitting batsman Danza Hyatt, but also the inclusion of five players, who are yet to gain regional oneday caps. They are leg-spinner Damion Jacobs, young fast bowler Marquino Mindley, left-arm wrist spinner, Dennis Bulli, pace bowling allrounder, Derval Green, and unheralded left-arm seamer, Gavan Brown. “I believe it’s a balanced squad, and much better than last year’s,” said Lambert. “For example, Hyatt is back, which is good, as the last time we went to the tournament in Trinidad, I was the only senior specialist batsman in the team. “His inclusion should add a bit more balance to our batting. “As for the bowling, last year, we only had one outand-out spinner in Nikita Miller, and I was asked to do
Tamar Lambert goes for a big shot. a lot of bowling. “Now the selectors have added Jacobs and Bulli, and as such I believe we stand a greater chance of doing well on the pitches in Trinidad, which, at times, tend to favour spinners,” added the 33-yearold. Jamaica, who were led by all-rounder David Bernard Jr last season, bowed out of the tournament at the semi-final stage after being bowled out for 49, and losing by seven wickets to hosts Trinidad. They had recorded 14 and 10 runs wins over Windward Islands and Guyana, and a six-wicket win over Ireland in the group stages. GROUP B This year, the team has been drawn in Group B along with Trinidad and Tobago Red
Force, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, and guest team West Indies Under-19s. Jamaica, to be led this year for the first time by Miller, will open their account against the Hurricanes on January 16, before going up against the Red Force on the 18, and closing out against West Indies Under-19s on the 20. The semi-finals will be held on January 22 and 23, with the final slated for the January 25. Jamaica Super50 Squad Nikita Miller (capt), Tamar Lambert, John Campbell, Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, Andre McCarthy, Danza Hyatt, Horace Miller, David Bernard Jr, Damion Jacobs, Marquino Mindley, Derval Green, Gavon Brown, Dennis Bulli.
Liverpool players ‘shocked’ at captain leaving club BBC Sport - Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard’s decision to quit the club at the end of the season was “a big shock”, according to Reds midfielder Jordan Henderson. Gerrard, 34, has been at Liverpool for 25 years, but will leave on a free transfer when his contract expires. “We’ve seen stuff in the newspapers on whether he will renew his contract but everyone thought it would be done,” Henderson, 24, told Football Focus. “But it was a big shock to see that he will be leaving. No one had a clue.” Midfielder Gerrard has scored 180 goals in 695 games for the Reds and helped them win the Champions League, the Uefa Cup, two FA Cups, three League Cups, one Community Shield and two Uefa Super Cups. However, he has not started all matches this season and began the vital Champions League tie away at Real Madrid in November on the
substitutes’ bench. Gerrard, who won 114 caps with England, says he will not sign for another Premier League side, but has been linked with a move to Major League Soccer in the US. Henderson said Liverpool will miss Gerrard’s strengths on and off the field. “It will be difficult because he is such a leader of our group, such a figurehead, and has been for many years,” added Henderson. “We just have to try and deal with it the best we can.” Former Reds striker John Aldridge, who scored 63 goals in 104 games for the club, says Liverpool will not find a direct replacement. “It’s a day I have been dreading for a long time,” Aldridge told BBC Sport. “He will be hanging up his boots for Liverpool. His boots are unfillable. “I played against Stevie when I was Tranmere manager and he was 16 playing for
Steven Gerrard (EPA) Liverpool Reserves against Tranmere Reserves. “You knew he would be a star. I’ve been watching Liverpool play for 50 years home and away and he’s the best player I have seen for them. “He is irreplaceable. It’s not just on the field, but also in the dressing room where he gets the best out of the players around him.”
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 33
Grove Hi Tech flay Ann’s Grove 5-0 to lift title
did enjoy some good moments. They had a few chances to draw level by the half way mark but could not get it together in the attacking third. The second, which started with Grove enjoying a slim 1-0 advantage, turned
out to be all Grove as they grounded their opponents into submission urged on by their vociferous supporters who journeyed all the way to Berbice to lend valuable support. It was the continuation of the Garnett, New Year’s Night show from the 66th minute when he doubled the advantage. The Ann’s Grove defence and goalkeeper was found wanting once again in the 71st minute as the advantage increased to 3-0 which put the game way beyond the reach of the East Coast side. Five minutes later it was 4-0 and the icing was put on the cake from the penalty spot again in the 79th minute, compliments of Garnett on the second attempt. The final whistle sounded after two minutes of added on time and this sparked wild celebrations by the Grove fans along with fireworks that lit up the night skies. Grove ending as the inaugural Stag Super XV1 knockout champions, Ann’s Grove was their third East Demerara Football Association scalp having d e f e a t e d B V Tr i u m p h United (2-0), Buxton United (1-0) and NA United (3-2). Ann’s Grove will receive $500,000 for their efforts. En route to the final, they (Continued on page 30 )
Veersammy Permaul
Narsingh Deonarine
before the Guyana Jaguars ended a highly successful year by assuming the lead in the WICB Four-Day FirstClass Cricket Franchise after the opening phase of four matches. While the National Rugby team should win the ‘team of the year award’ since they enjoyed success at both Regional and International levels, the GCB stood firm in troubled waters and their teams
responded by lifting three titles and finishing runner-up in two others and must be in high in contention for Sporting Association of the year award when the NSC holds their annual National Sports Awards. Narsingh Deonarine (309) is second on the runs aggregate, Anthony Bramble (16) is the leading Wi c k e t k e e p e r, w h i l e Veerasammy Permaul (33) (Continued on page 29)
NA United tame Cougars 5-1 for third The inaugural Stag Super XV1 knock-out football tournament climaxed on New Year’s night last at the #5 Community ground West Coast Berbice with Grove Hi Tech led by their prolific scorer, Domini Garnett, who netted all their goals, trouncing Ann’s Grove 5-0 to lift the championship trophy and $1.5 million first place cheque compliments of Ansa McAl. In the third place encounter, another lethal goal scorer, Adrian Adams and Rondel Hazel each netted a brace each to lead New Amsterdam United to a 5-1 routing of Cougars to win the third place clash and prize of $300,000. Witnessed by a sea of colourful spectators on a windy New Year’s night, fans were treated to a goal fest on the night and while hundreds left the venue in an ecstatic mood, many others left deflated after their teams were defeated. Like he did in the against New Amsterdam United when he netted the winning hat-trick, Domini Garnett rose to the occasion yet again rattling off all five goals either side of play as Grove
totally annihilated their rivals from the East Coast of Demerara. The champions started somewhat shaky as Ann’s Grove took the early fight to them on a well clipped and maintained field. Scoring during their previous encounters was a tough task for Ann’s Grove who only netted three goals in their three previous wins; two of which were won via penalty kicks, 5-3 on each occasion. On the other hand, Grove Hi Tech possessed a lethal scoring machine in Garnett who ended the tournament like Adrian Adams of NA United with 9 goals each. Grove had scored six times in the run up to the championship match while conceding only two goals; so it was going to be an uphill battle for the Ann’s Grove defenders to stave off the rampant Garnett. And so it turned out, Garnett was too hot for his opponents to handle. Sixteen minutes into the game, his {Garnett}nimble footwork saw him taking the ball into the box and was brought to the ground contrary to the laws of the game which resulted in FIFA Referee
Domini Garnett (#11) and teammates celebrate another goal against Ann’s Grove.
Sherwin Johnson blowing his whistle while pointing to the spot. Garnett himself stepped up to take the kick which flew past goalkeeper Narvaldo Denny who had looked good standing in for regular goalie Travis Allen
out with a fractured jaw. Even Allen’s words of encouragement to Denny from the sidelines could not change the course for Ann’s Grove. While the score line shows dominance on the part of Grove, the East Coast side
2014 was most successful year for Guyana’s cricket at Regional level By Sean Devers After a poor start to the year by Guyana’s senior team which failed to win a single game in the Regional Four-Day First-Class tournament, this country completed its most successful year at the Regional level despite the challenges faced by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB). The GCB had to deal with several contentious issues including the Guyana Cricket Administration Bill which was passed in Parliament and assented to by President Donald R a m o t a r. T h e W I C B recognized the GCB as the only entity to run Cricket in Guyana but the dispute resulted in this country
Shimron Hetmyer losing the Test match between West Indies and New Zealand set for Providence. A high level discussion between the GCB, WICB and the Government paved
Tremayne Smartt the way for Guyana to host the 2014 Regional under-19 tournaments. Guyana, for the first time, won the double crown by playing unbeaten in both tournaments. This country reached the
Kemo Paul semi-final of the NAGICO Super50 tournament in T&T, w a s r u n n e r- u p i n t h e R e g i o n a l Wo m e n ’s tournament in Dominica, won the Regional U-15 tournament in Jamaica
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Kaieteur News
Saturday January 03, 2015
SOUTH AFRICA V WEST INDIES, 3RD TEST, CAPE TOWN, 1ST DAY
Harmer, Steyn benefit from wasteful Windies Leon Johnson went past fifty in 73 balls. (Gallo Images)
Dale Steyn starts the chainsaw after removing Denesh Ramdin. (AFP)
Denesh Ramdin (Gallo Images) ESPNcricinfo - Dale Steyn’s two wickets were the sole rewards for South Africa’s quicks on the opening day yesterday of the third Test - enough to take him past Makhaya Ntini’s 390 Test wickets and go second in South Africa’s alltime list - but as respectable as that sounds for West Indies when pitted against the No. 1 Test side in the world, they frittered away the chance to go big on a peaceable Newlands surface. Four of the top seven batsmen fell between 43 and 54 - including Denesh Ramdin late in the day - and three of them should have left with self-recrimination. There has been a giddiness about West Indies’ cricket in South Africa, a batting side seeking to attune itself to the rhythms of Test cricket and never quite managing it. Just as they seem to be dancing efficiently to the right tune, somebody momentarily puts the hip hop on. But the first day also surrendered to a debutant offspinner putting his first imprint on Test history. Simon Harmer had burst into tears in a supermarket when he heard the joyful news of his Test call up, and already he has heard the kerching of three West Indies batsmen dropping into his trolley. Twice Harmer struck to peg back the West Indies just as they hoped to break free, firstly Devon Smith tempted into an indiscreet cut on the stroke of lunch, then Leon Johnson lbw to one that skidded on in mid-afternoon.
O c c a s i o n a l l y, h i s sunglasses bounced up from his nose as he delivered, offering him the chance to view his wickets as they happened in two different shades. His third wicket was a collector’s item. Shivnarine Chanderpaul had only been stumped once before in 272 Test innings, but Harmer caused him to overbalance against the first ball after tea as he flicked helplessly to leg for AB de Villiers to pull off a neat stumping. Figures of 3 for 67 in 25 overs represented a good day’s work and suggested subtleties of flight that made him worthy of selection. South Africa were grateful for his incursions. Vernon Philander and Steyn began with bowling averages at Newlands under 17 and 22 respectively, but Steyn was not taken by the pitch, providing a salty assessment of its worth after only three overs when he banged one in halfway and was rewarded by the ball barely rising stump high. T h e Wy n b e r g E n d proved more to his liking. It took two balls after a switch of end to remove Kraigg Brathwaite. A century in the rain-wrecked affair in Port Elizabeth had underlined his resilience, but his dismissal fitted a recognisable pattern: drawn into a drive, the batsman edged to Dean Elgar at gully. Two balls later and Steyn hollered for the wicket of Johnson, but this time, ironically, there was too much bounce and South Africa did not review umpire Paul Reiffel’s decision. But they did review when Morne Morkel jagged one back to rap Johnson’s pads on 4,
failing to overturn the decision by the narrowest of margins. Smith’s caressed off-side drives were the main feature of the morning, but impatience cost him as he was bowled by Harmer with the last ball of the session. South Africa’s captain, Hashim Amla, attacked as lunch loomed, and Smith could not resist seeking a boundary which would have taken him past 50 for only the seventh time in a 38-Test career. It was a cramped stroke, with Smith eyeing the open spaces on the off side and the ball struck the top of middle via a slight bottom edge. Harmer had struck in only his fourth over, but there would be more than a few Newlands members who would be muttering as they observed a bared midriff in the process of delivery that now he had graduated to the Test match club, it was high time he learned to tuck his shirt in. Johnson scooted to fifty as West Indies played freely after lunch, but he also needed dollops of fortune against the short ball as South Africa set two men back for the pull and he allowed himself an escapade or two. That half-century, only his second in Tests, came with a chancy drive against Harmer over cover before the bowler outdid him in the flight to win an lbw verdict. Marlon Samuels’ tendency to aberration was illustrated when he responded to the fall of Johnson’s wicket by clearing his front leg in the next over, from Morkel, and attempted to slog him into the crowd. He failed to make contact, but South Africa were put on alert. Perhaps a blow on the
helmet from Morkel had unsettled him. It was not just a fluke therefore when Samuels, on 43, frustrated by a lengthy period in mid-afternoon when South Africa had dried up the runs, found the 120kph fill-in medium pace of Stiaan van Zyl irresistible. His first ball was a sedate wide half volley, which began wide and went wider and which Samuels slapped obligingly to cover. What
Simon Harmer picked up his maiden Test wicket with the last ball before lunch. (AFP)
goes through the mind of the The Crab, Chanderpaul, when he sees such waste? Does it wash over him or does he re-mark his guard with boiling frustration. Ramdin, sinews stiffened by New Year resolutions about better times ahead, had perceived a day ripe for batting and would have hoped for better. When Chanderpaul was prised out, half the side had gone for 172 and calamity
beckoned. But Jermaine Blackwood, back at No. 6 in a stronger batting line-up, joined Ramdin a stand of 94, only for the captain’s sensible knock to end with a return catch to Steyn shortly before the close. It was South Africa’s only breakthrough with the second new ball, but Steyn’s neck bulged red with pleasure all the same. Scores: West Indies 276 for 6 (Blackwood 45*, Holder 5*) v South Africa.
Builders Lumber Yard renews D’ANDRADE SPONSORSHIP
Marketing Manager at The Builders Lumber Yard, Shivani Salim (second, right) hands over the sponsorship cheque to Lionel D’Andrade yesterday while a staff also shares the moment.
B
uilders Lumber Yard yesterday renewed its long-standing sponsorship arrangement of distance-running ace, Lionel D’Andrade, who opens his 2015 competition season tomorrow morning with the Bigi Broki Waka 10km race in the neighbouring Suriname. The lumber yard has been supporting D’Andrade for the last decade as he continues his career as a distance athlete, based in Trinidad and Tobago. Marketing Manager of Builders’ Lumber Yard, Shivani Salim said
that they are proud to be D’Andrade’s sponsor. “We’ve been supporting him as one of his major sponsors over the years because we believe that he is talented and has a good career. We want to continue to support him since we believe that it is this support that will help him become the best,” Salim said. D’Andrade thanked the company for their support over the years, stating that he hopes that their unflinching support continues since his international participation in events wouldn’t be possible without them. D’Andrade is a consistent regional competitor.
Saturday January 03, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 35
UDFA/GT BEER SUPA 16
Winners Connection REPEAT as champions J
ust as they had done last year, Winners Connection won the latest edition of the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA)/GT Beer Supa 16 Competition after registering a hard fought 1-0 win over a determined, but outclassed Hi Stars team that found the defending champions too hot to handle in the final played before a large crowd on New Year’s Day, at the Mackenzie Sports Club. Returning to the Mecca of New Year’s Day football, the reigning champs proved to be the better team allround, but found the Hi Stars backline an unyielding and difficult foundation to dismantle, before an act of recklessness caused their downfall that allowed them to repeat and go away $1million richer. It started with a through ball played into the goal area from the middle that was met by the scheming Rawle ‘Boney’ Gittens, who blew past one defender, but in his attempt to draw the goalkeeper wide, he was brought down inside the box resulting in Referee Stanley Lancaster whistling for an
- Top XX too good for Eagles United threatening incursions as they failed to trouble the scoresheet in the first period. Needing to open up a bit more, both teams sent the extra player upfront in search of goals and it created opportunities for counter attacks which was what occurred when Winners Connection was able to break the deadlock and get the win. In the third place playoff, traditional powerhouse Top XX coasted to an easy 3-0 triumph over Eagles United with Shawn Daniels netting a brace in the 16 and 60 minutes, while Terrence Aaron added the other in the 29 minute. Among those present at the final were sponsor’s representatives Errol Nelson, who along with Linden Branch Manager Shondell Easton assisted in the presentation of prizes, while also in attendance was Chairman of Region 10 Sharma Solomon. President of the UDFA Collis Gifth said the presentation of individual prizes will be done on a date to be announced later. th
Banks DIH Brand Manager Errol Nelson (right) and Linden Branch Manager Shondell nd Nelson (2 right) presents the winning cheque to Winners Connection Captain in the presence of teammates following their win in the final over Hi Star on New Year’s Day.
infringement and subsequent penalty kick. The ensuing spot kick taken by Gittens eluded the desperate attempt by the goalkeeper, before nestling in the right hand corner of the goal. The goal which came in the 65 minute of play seemed to knock the wind out of the Hi Stars side as th
Wi n n e r s C o n n e c t i o n continued to attack with venom, creating a number of chances, but poor finishing combined with excellent goalkeeping kept the opposition one goal away from equalising. Gittens, who was having another good night, exhibiting his usual wizardry with the
ball, spoiled it somewhat with some errant finishing. On one occasion he had already shredded the defence and with only the goalkeeper to beat sent his shot high over the crossbar to induce frustration among the team’s supporters. When the final whistle sounded, Winners Connection fans engaged in
wild celebrations as they came and saw their team win the title for the second straight year. Earlier, both teams looked impressive as the ploy seemed to be to retain possession and create neat buildups with the respective defences well organised and quick to nullify any
th
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Treacle returns to winning ways at Rising Sun Jumbo Jet again fly’s away with championship honours
Mr Javin Jodhan Manager of Banks DIH Limited presents the winnings in the feature D and lower race to owner Mrs Taramattie Dookie for Treacle’s win.
By Samuel Whyte Treacle of the Dookie Stable trained by Fazal Habibulla choose the correct moment to return to top form when it defeat a top class field to win the feature D1 and lower event when the Rising Sun Turf Club in
collaboration with Jumbo Jet Auto Sales and Banks DIH successfully held their grand New Year’s Day Horserace meet at the Rising Sun Turf Club, Arima Park West Coast Berbice. As the animals left the starting gate the sprinters took the race to full throttle
early with Curfew Tower and Princess She Not out front and having the others at their mercy in the 1600M event. Treacle, ridden by jockey Randolph Richmond, was hovering at third. Into the backstretch the animals were stretching out at a searing pace with some exchanges in
Ms Ameera Bacchus Of the Inshan Bacchus Stable receives the winning trophy in the Three Year and E class event from a member of the organising committee.
positions taking place. By the far turn CP Got Even was moving into position from the back row as Treacle was pushing to challenge the leaders. As the horses hit the homestretch it was Treacle responding to the urging of Jockey Richmond taking the
lead, indicating to the others, catch me if you can. By then CP Got Even was coming at top speed, but it was little too late as Treacle crossed the finishing line in front. For the win it raced away with the $1M and Banks DIH Trophy ahead of CP Got Even, with Curfew Tower
copping the third spot ahead of Grande De Roja. Unsettled, piloted by Richmond, of the Inshan Bacchus stable settled all score as it romp home to win the E and lower and West Indies bred Three Year Old event in a close tussle from (Continued on page 30 )
t r o Sp 4TH ANNUAL GFA/BANKS CUP ROUND ROBIN KNOCKOUT TOURNAMENT
Gregory Richardson, Dwight Peters sink GDF as Alpha FC cart off the spoils
Banks DIH executives, Brian Choo Hen and Troy Peters hand over the winning cheque and trophy to Alpha captain, Dwight Peters during the presentation ceremony last Thursday evening
GROVE HI TECH FLAY ANN’S GROVE 5-0 TO LIFT TITLE NA UNITED TAME COUGARS 5-1 FOR THIRD
Ansa McAl Public Relations Officer Darshanie Yussuf (left) hands over the championship trophy to Captain of Grove Hi Tech Sherman Doris in the presence of elated players and club officials.
South Africa v West Indies, 3rd Test, Cape Town, 1st day
UDFA/GT BEER SUPA 16...
Winners Connection Harmer, Steyn benefit REPEAT as champions from wasteful Windies
- TOP XX TOO GOOD FOR EAGLES UNITED
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