Kaieteur News

Thursday January 04, 2018

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

Sugar workers need to examine all At loggerheads with the Prime avenues for financial assistance Minister’s representative

DEAR EDITOR, Government is encouraged to fast forward plans and financial assistance payments to sugar workers immediately. This is not an issue to leave on the desk. Guyanese abroad with families in the sugar belt are encouraged to make contact with them to see what can be done to help them if necessary. And please understand that while you will give what you can afford, more than US$200 monthly would be really appreciated. My sympathies go out to our sugar workers. This will probably mark the most difficult part of their lives, but all Guyanese encourage them to face this time of their trial boldly, and know that choosing suicide only makes it much worse for their families. Affected sugar workers are placed in a situation in which virtually everything that earns an income becomes an opportunity to get money. Before they start looking for work, they should explore all available avenues of getting financial assistance, from family abroad or wherever. Looking for a job will involve screening the classifieds every day for job opportunities and leaving home early every day for places where there is a possibility of getting either a

regular job, or ‘job work’ if available. They should take a check of their skill set - things like carpentry, mechanic, masonry, welding and construction experience, and cooking. They should also know when they are getting robbed by their potential employers, because these instances will arise very often. Their minds should be resolved to do anything that is not illegal to acquire money, and could include even going into the interior, although I was made to understand that things are not so bright there right now. Bartica is the best place to enter the interior because although there are some fairly large mining companies in Georgetown, a few of them and other smaller mining enterprises in GT are scamps themselves, and will rob them blind in addition to exposing them to malaria and other diseases that arise as a result of unsanitary conditions in their camps. It helps to keep yourself properly groomed, well shaved and your hair as low as you can allow, as in bald, to save on barbering costs. Employers capable of extending a hand by offering a job to sugar workers without underpaying them too much should step up to the plate and give something back to Guyana by taking on a couple sugar workers until they can

establish themselves more firmly. To our sugar workers we say: Chin Up, Cheer up, and Don’t Give Up! We are with you! Help Us Build A Better Future For Guyana Today. Join Our Facebook Group Now And Suggest Ways To Help Our Sugar Workers. While we await the details of Government’s financial assistance package to determine its effectiveness, we propose that in the interim our established companies come together to set up a single account under the supervision of an independent accounting firm to receive donations to distribute to affected workers. There can also be American, Canadian, and UK accounts, which can in turn funnel donations to the Guyana account. Advertisements should be placed in the local press to encourage affected sugar workers to register. Payments could be made twice per month: the 2nd and 17th. Additionally, major supermarkets and grocery stores could establish links with religious institutions within the affected areas to work out plans for providing hampers which should include sanitary items and food stuff at least. Yours Faithfully, Craig Sylvester

Freddie Kissoon angers a colleague DEAR EDITOR, Kindly permit response in relation to Mr. Freddie Kissoon’s article dated January 3, 2018. During the festive season Freddie called me on my cellular phone laughing about the Article in which he took my Christmas joke and turned it into a Column. I told him very frankly that I was upset with him and that I am loyal to the coalition Government. I then asked him why he is constantly attacking the AFC. To this question, he started laughing on the phone continuously. He then said to me that AFC is an ungrateful party. I told

him we aren’t. I then said to Mr. Kissoon that I was reliably informed by a well-placed politician that both himself and wife were offered jobs and he, Freddie Kissoon, refused both offers. Mr. Kissoon then asked me to name the source and when I refused to do so, he then became very furious. With respect to the job offer for his wife, he admitted that he has knowledge that something to this effect was brought up with leadership of the AFC by one of its executive members but he cannot say what the current position of the matter is. With respect to himself and the job

Nothing like local humour DEAR EDITOR, For wit and humour, very few nations could compete with the average Guyanese. They always remind me of “Gemima”, the girl with the curl in the middle of her forehead, in the poem we learnt at primary school. “When she was good, she was very, very good. When she was bad, she was horrid”. The same could be said of many of my countrymen/women. The punch line from the tale of the “small 98-year old lady having no enemies in the world” had me in fits of laughter for several minutes. She had outlived all the itches! Sound reason, great record. Geralda D.

offer he categorically denied this. On this occasion, unlike the previous one, Mr. Kissoon asked my permission to quote me in relation to the job offers which is commendable, but, he has done so quite partially with a deliberate omission. The time is ripe for Mr Freddie Kissoon, with his wealth of Knowledge to assist in fixing some of our major problems in Guyana and not throw up his hands in disgust and pessimism over matters such as blackouts which have been with us from the time immemorial. Regards Carlyle Goring

DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me some space in your most informative newspaper to respond to the Prime Minister’s representative here in Berbice, a man on whom taxpayers monies is being wasted to pay a salary, and also the cost of renting an office with staff . During the colonial days this Berbice area was run by one District Commissioner who was a man qualified and experienced, and who did make decisions on the spot, without any political directives. But after we became a republic this region was headed by a Regional Chairman and at the moment, we do have a functioning Regional Chairman by the name of Mr. David Armogan, a man that is very Educated, Approachable, Experienced, Humble and very Co-operative . Since the coalition we have seen taxpayers sweat and blood being squandered to run a so-called Prime Minister’s representative office. The article carried on page eleven of Kaieteur News 23/12/2017 clearly indicates that the trucks pictured are vehicles used for production and are properly parked off the road. They all have reflectors which are approved by the traffic department. If one were to take measurements of the road where these trucks are, one will find much more room for motorists to manoeuvre than the three Bush Polder bridges —the number 52, and number 66 bridges. If these trucks that affect Gobin Harbhajan are indeed violating the traffic rules it is a matter for the traffic police not Gobin. While I agree that our road reserves should be kept clear, there are many more important things for this so-called representative to look at, such as the DONKEYS, COWS, HORSES, PIGS, GOATS,

and SHEEP that roam the Corentyne main road. Some run across the road suddenly by day or night causing thousands of accidents. If you are to check the records, the parked vehicles do not run across the road suddenly. I wonder if the Prime Minister does not feel ashamed to have a representative such as this one in Region Six. Sir, many moons ago Mr.Harbhajan had an article with his photograph where he claimed he caught a truck with Guysuco’s fertilizer at a rice farmer’s home, can the PM rep. throw some light on this matter seeing that he loves to publish his photo in the press, we are awaiting an answer from him on this matter. I was once an RDC councillor in Region Six and I had suggested for Govt. to build a farm to market road using the #51/52 dam which runs from the sea shore to Yakusari in the Canje Creek. This is a solid red sand dam with a trench alongside. The PPP was in office and I was a ROAR councillor and because of this my proposal was not good. I resigned because of corruption in the PPP and Mr. Latiff Haroon ( Tom ) replaced me. He also renewed the call for that dam to be made into a farm to market road but without success. A few years ago Mr.David Subnauth, a member of the Upper Corentyne Chamber of Commerce suggested that the # 58/59 village dam be made into a farm to market road. This idea came from Mr. Subnauth but of late, I see Mr Harbhajan is saying it is his idea. Sorry this is not the truth. By the way I would like President Granger to investigate Mr.Harbhajan and his office to see if we are getting our value for money because we feel this office is doing more harm than good. Harri P. Beharry

Garbage trucks damage roads in Republic Park DEAR SIR, The residents of Phase 1, Republic Park have noted with great concern in recent months, the use of the lot at the corner of Wills and Jackson Streets by the Cevon Company to store the large container bins that are used for the collection of significant quantities of solid waste. The concern stems from the continued movement, almost every day, of these trucks through streets that were not built to withstand regular use by large heavy vehicles. The truth of this statement can be easily verified by the clearly visible signs of the damage to the roads leading into Phase 1.

Despite the best efforts of private persons and the Council to do remedial work there is a continuous problem with potholes which reappear after a week or two. In addition to the damage to the roads, the container bins are sometimes left outside of the lot at the corner of the road where persons have to turn and they can be considered a hazard to drivers and pedestrians in the community. Residents are also asking

whether this is a legal operation in an area that was zoned for residential purposes. The residents of Phase 1 and the NDC have had a long and collaborative relationship in the effort to keep the surroundings in this community safe and aesthetically pleasing. We therefore feel sure that you and the Council will take urgent action on this matter. Republic Park Concerned Residents

PAGE 6

Kaieteur News

Minister Patterson must be in Jest DEAR EDITOR, It had been reported in Kaieteur News (Govt. open to look beyond Exxon on natural gas project – Patterson, Dec 29, 2017) that Guyana will have access to 30-50 thousand cubic feet of natural gas per day. “It’s far bigger than the pipeline,” Minister Patterson is purported to have declared, referring to the pipeline being proposed. He further pointed out

that the pipeline would be not only for electricity, but also for an industrial park that includes a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) plant! Surely Minister Patterson must be in jest. Fifty thousand cubic feet of natural gas per day is a minuscule amount of gas. It is roughly 2100 cubic feet per hour. To put things in perspective, a highly efficient one megawatt (MW) power plant needs 3400 cubic feet of

gas per hour. Lower efficient plants require even more gas. Guyana installed power capacity is 226MW (2007 data) with the co-generation bagasse plant (soon to be closed) in Skeldon producing roughly 15MW of power. This amount of gas from Exxon will not be enough to contribute 0.5% of Guyana electricity needs much less for LPG export and other domestic energy needs. Mohabir Ramjeesingh

A disappointment as a councillor DEAR SIR, The much heralded Local Government Elections were touted to be the changing point for residents in Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, and the dawn of a new beginning. Residents living in Constituency Number 5 voted for a young APNU/ AFC Councillor who campaigned on a platform of “Improve drainage/irrigation, Enhance Public Infrastructure, Stimulate Job Creation, Entice Investors, Improve Public Health and Security, Promote Sports, Art, Culture and Empower Youths especially those in the Ghetto”. A massive billboard bearing the Candidate’s picture was setup while smaller leaflets were distributed to residents with these promises. We recently read in the National Newspaper, that a Georgetown Councillor for Constituency Number 2 highlighting his achievements and we would be very grateful if the Councillor of Rose Hall Town, Corentyne can do the same. He was the only APNU/AFC Councillor to be elected in the Constituency in Rose Hall Town, Corentyne and our hopes were high that he would set an example for the next election due in 2019. Sadly he has been a big disappointment to the people who voted for him based on his promises. Not one commitment has been fulfilled. Over the last two years we have not heard or seen him in

his Constituency. The situation in this close knitted constituency has got worse with impassable roads, poor security lighting at nights, huge bushes all around, regular flooding whenever it rains, garbage all over the place while not one single programme or project has been organised to empower youths as was promised during the campaign. What is worrying about the situation is that this elected Councillor is not doing anything for his Constituency, finds the time and energy to constantly attack residents who are making huge contributions to the township and gets involved in numerous organisations across Berbice. He has somehow found himself involved in cricket, volleyball, athletics and horse racing among others. The popular talk is that he is a failure at everything he does, with not one simple achievement in his column. The Councillor attends Council Meetings at his own pleasure and is known not to sit down for the entire meeting and collects his $10 000 stipend each month. The Mayor of Rose Hall Town, a concern resident does not collect his monthly stipend; instead he uses it to develop his township. We would like to advice the Councillor from Constituency Number 5 to do likewise. We would like the Councillor to answer the following questions based on his election promises.

a) What events has he organised to promote Sports, Art and Culture in his Constituency? b) What has he done to empower youths and those from the Ghetto? He has described himself as the spoke person for those in the Ghetto but apart from talking what has he done? c) Which investor has he entice to invest in his area, and how much sponsorship has he raised for any programme or project? d) What has he done to improve Public Health and Security for residents as promised? e) What programme has he organised to stimulate Job Creation for youths and can he name one youth that he got or recommended for a job? f) What Public Infrastructure has he enhanced? g) Why are our drains full of bushes and garbage everywhere when he promised us to improve drainage and better garbage disposal? h) How much financial stipend has he collected from the Town Council for his nonperformance, and is it true that he took three months leave of absence from the Council and still collected his stipends?. i) Since he seemed to know better than everyone else how to run organisations, why did his one man Club known as the Rose Hall Town Athletics Club disappeared after a few months? We would like to appeal to the leadership of APNU/ AFC to recall this nonperforming Councillor and to make sure that at the next elections, the select people who talk less and more action oriented. The same Councillor and his fellow APNU/AFC Councillors owes the Mayor of Rose Hall Town an apology for going on Television and accusing him of corruption. When proven wrong they have simply refused to do the correct thing and apologise. Yours respectfully, Disappointed residents

Thursday January 04, 2018

My tribute to a true stalwart - Sandra Adams made her contribution DEAR EDITOR, Sandra Adams was a champion in her own right. She has left an indelible mark on the local political landscape, specifically Linden. Sandra Adams will be remembered for her steadfastness and unrelenting activism. I first met Sandra when I joined the PNCR’s youth arm. Sandra was already a vibrant member of the organization. I came to know her as one of Region Ten’s leading youth voices of the movement. While I was advancing to national leadership positions in the movement Sandra was transitioning out to the adult arm of the party. However, her transition never truly created political space between us; in fact it might have probably shrunk that space as we served the party and the nation on many similar fronts. If I am to choose some adjectives to describe Sandra I would define her as opinionated – always had her perspective on an issue and never hesitated to sound it out, regardless of how others might have felt about it. Wi l l i n g - S h e w a s always ready to serve even if she was already too heavily tasked. The comrade was also tough/ thick skinned – can take a punch (not literally but in political terms) and still battle on even if it is perceived that she was not winning. She was one who exemplified the concept that politics is not for “thin skinned people” who take comments personally. Criticisms by others rarely dampened her drive or caused her to disengage those whose comments did not coincide with her views or reflected her opinion. She projected an anger that was short-lived, a smile that was almost permanent and a voice that was almost demanding but yet inviting. When you got to know Sandra Adams you began to truly understand that politics is really a “big woman’s” or a “big man’s” profession. I would also describe Sandra Adams as someone who was also very forthright and jubilantly presumptuous. Sandra and I served in the National Assembly during the Eighth Parliament, under the leadership of then Opposition Leader, the late Hugh Desmond Hoyte, then leader of the PNCR. I recalled that on my first

day in the Parliament, when everyone was extending congratulations to me for being one of the youngest newcomers to the Parliament, Sandra approached me with a beaming smile. Her face was lit up in a taunting way and when she got close to me she smiled even wider and said, “Don’t feel you is the only MP who ever come to this House in yuh 20’s yuh know; I come hay when I was in meh 20’s too”. I knew she served in the Seventh Parliament, but on that first day the thought of “youngest MP or anything of that nature was never in my thinking. I smiled and Sandra unleashed a wicked laugh and remarked “Ah know yuh didn’t know”. I responded by asking, her how could she believe I did not know she served in the last parliament. She laughed again and said, “Ah never seh suh, yuh know. Ah seh yuh didn’t know I was in meh 20’s too”. At that point I knew I lost the battle. We talked for a while longer as she tried to furnish me names of other MPs who came to the National Assembly “in day 20s”. During our many years of active membership in the PNCR, Sandra and I would have attended many congresses, General Council Meetings, Central Executive Committee Meetings and other important committee meetings of the party. During those meetings there was a pool of young people who were sure to bring matters of concern to the floor. Among those young people was Sandra Adams. This was one thing we had in common, that desire and passion to address issues on the congress floor, even if the issues were not popular or were uncomfortable for others. Sandra wasted no time to speak for “Region Ten” she also spoke against some things when she felt the need to do so. Yes, she was controversial at times, but regardless of the controversy she might have started, she stayed on her mission. Her desire to work for Linden and promote the

interest of Region Ten was without question. We may differ on her method but her heart and desire, I believe, were in the right place. Regardless of how Sandra Adams was perceived her passing is no doubt a great loss to the PNCR. Her knowledge of party work, her familiarity with Region Ten and her “go getter” attitude will be difficult to match. She was a true stalwart of the PNCR. She has been knocked down many times but got back up every time. Today, my heart aches because I know that this time there is no getting up; this time there is no second time; this time there is no controversy to stoke new activism; this time there is no wide and taunting presumptuous talk; this time there is no “point of order” to be heard on the floor. It is difficult to speak of Sandra Adams in the past tense, and it will be difficult for the PNCR to forget her contribution. Sandra has surely made her mark on the PNCR and by extension Guyana. Her work in Region Ten and more specifically, Linden, demonstrates her ability. Linden has lost a true fighter, strong advocate and leader. I am happy to have had the opportunity to know Sandra Adams; she was remarkable in her own way, she led in her own way, she served in her own way, she lived life her way. Yes, she did it her way. I am sorry that the last conversation I had with her was during the last PNCR congress in 2016. Sincere condolences to her two sons, her sister Minister Valerie Patterson, and her entire family. She has transitioned to a place where life is much greener, a place where there is no more sorrow, pain, frustration, stress or trouble. Her passing should be a point for reflection and celebration for a life well lived. Sandra has made her earthly contributions. God has bigger plans for her! May her soul rest in peace. Yours Sincerely Lurlene Nestor

Two questions for M&CC DEAR EDITOR, Were elections for mayor held and if so what was the outcome? Secondly, it’s the third day of the New Year and it seems we are back to square one. Could they say what arrangements have been put in place for garbage collection, since the contracted period for the two main contractors has ended? Shamshun Mohamed

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Thursday January 04, 2018

Alleged rape at Turkeyen Police Station…

Exxon contract mandates Policewoman denies brokering Minister as middleman $40,000 deal to drop complaint between company and GRA

A

policewoman at the Turkeyen Police Station was grilled yesterday on reports that she tried to persuade the victim of the alleged New Year's Day rape to take $40,000 to drop a sex assault complaint against two police constables. Kaieteur News understands that investigators questioned the policewoman after an online media report alleged that the woman filing the complaint claimed that the female rank suggested that she accept a financial settlement. A senior police official said that the policewoman refuted the allegation, but the Office of Professional Responsibility is to continue the investigation. Police also hope to

complete their probe this week into the rape allegation. The accused ranks remain under close arrest. The woman alleged that the two lawmen brutally raped her inside the Turkeyen Police Station around 01:00 hr on New Year's Day when she went to make a report against her boyfriend. The ranks, however, are claiming that they negotiated to give the woman $10,000 each to have sex with them. The 'business' was reportedly to have been consummated in a room in the upper flat of the station. The ranks alleged that after they failed to pay her, the woman went downstairs and screamed 'rape'. According to a police source, the woman alleged that she visited the station after her

boyfriend threatened to kill her. She claimed that while giving a statement, she asked one of the ranks to use the washroom. “She said that one rank went with her to show her where the washroom was, when his colleague joined them and both men raped her,” a source said. However, there are reports that when the woman went to the station, she was highly intoxicated and had started stripping her clothes. This reportedly caught the ranks' attention and they started talking with the woman and subsequently bargained for sex. At the time of the incident, the rank in charge was in his office, while others were on patrol.

Teacher Upgrading Programme to return to Region Eight

T

he Teacher Upgrading Programme that is offered by the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) is returning to Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), after a number of years. Initially, the programme was offered through a special project, but it was suspended because of a number of issues and challenges, which included monitoring and evaluating what obtained in the region to ensure the quality was similar to what was being delivered at the College's main campus at Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara. However, the programme will now be relaunched in Paramakatoi in the first quarter of this year with renewed vigour to ensure that there is no disparity in the standard of

education offered and accessed on the coast and in the hinterland communities. Currently, there are 68 students from North Pakaraima who are teaching but are untrained. With the re-introduction of the programme, the CPCE will provide those teachers with the necessary upgrading skills. This programme lasts for two years, after which they can enrol in the Trained Teacher's Certificate Programme. Meanwhile, to further improve the level of teaching offered by the CPCE in the remote communities, a Course Delivery workshop was recently completed. During that exercise 36 tutors and co-ordinators from communities across Guyana visited the Turkeyen campus where they received special training.

W

hile Guyana's t a x a c t establishes a direct relationship between the taxpayer and the collecting agency, the Petroleum Agreement signed by the Government of Guyana and ExxonMobil stipulates a completely different set up. Based on this agreement, the Minister of Natural Resources will be the middleman between ExxonMobil and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). In effect the Minister, who is supposed to be looking out for the interest of the nation, will essentially be working with the GRA on behalf of the ExxonMobil. Such a unique provision is made in Article 15.5 of the contract. It states, “The Contractor (ExxonMobil and its partners) shall provide the Minister (of Natural Resources) with the Contractor's income tax returns to be submitted by the Minister to the Commissioner General, Guyana Revenue Authority so the Minister can pay income tax on behalf of the Contractor as provided under Article 15.4.” The drafters of the agreement were keen to make sure there is no ambiguity. They did not even leave room for any other interpretation. It was written that the Minister will indeed be acting “on behalf” of the company. Here

is what the contract states, “On such returns, the Minister shall note that he is paying the income taxes on behalf of the Contractor, so that the Commissioner General, Guyana Revenue Authority can properly prepare the receipts required under this Article 15.5.” That clause further notes, “Within one hundred and eighty (180) days following the end of each year of assessment, the Minister shall furnish to Contractor proper tax certificates in Contractor's name from the Commissioner General, Guyana Revenue Authority evidencing the payment of the Contractor's income tax under the Income Tax Act and corporation tax under the Corporation Tax Act. Such certificates shall state the amount of tax paid individually on behalf of Contractor or parties comprising the Contractor and other particulars customary for such certificates.” This provision is a new one. While there was indeed an Article 15 under the Petroleum Agreement signed by the People Progressive Party's Janet Jagan, it did not include the provision for the Minister to act as ExxonMobil's representative. A t t o r n e y a t L a w, Christopher Ram also highlighted Article 15 in one of his recent columns.

Ram noted other changes made to Article 15. He said, “One of the amendments is to make the Article subject to the stability article so the taxes are generally frozen as at the date of the agreement. In other words, if the contract lasts for forty years, no changes to the tax laws that are adverse to the interest of the oil companies will apply to them.” Ram also noted as well, “Just to be clear: (Raphael) Trotman has continued Janet Jagan's liberal arrangement whereby the government's share of profit oil is accepted by the Minister as payment in full by the contractor of any income tax or corporation tax otherwise payable.” Ram also made brief mention of the Minister's role as middleman. He said, “the contractor is required to submit its tax returns to the Minister who is then responsible for dealing with the Guyana Revenue Authority on behalf of the contractor! The Minister is required to state on the returns that he is paying income taxes on behalf of the contractor and the Revenue Authority must then prepare and issue receipts for the taxes so deemed to be paid.” Ram noted that the Agreement also provides for ExxonMobil to be exempted from property tax and from the provisions of section 10 B of the C o r p o r a t i o n Ta x A c t , dealing with payments to subcontractors, during the Exploration Period. “Exploration Period is defined in Article 1 to mean the (undefined) initial period, and or the first and second renewal period.” Ram also stated, “Affiliated and non-resident contractor companies which conduct business in Guyana in any tax year for 183 days or less on a cumulative basis, is exempted from the provisions of the Income Tax Act and the Corporation Tax Act during the exploration period, on income earned in Guyana. “The 2016 Agreement also provides for exemption f r o m “ t a x , d u t y, f e e , withholding, charge or other impost applicable on interest payments, dividends, deemed dividends, transfer of profits or deemed remittance of profits from contractors, affiliated companies or NonResident Sub-Contractors branch in Guyana to its foreign or head office or to Affiliated Companies.”

Kaieteur News

Thursday January 04, 2018

PAGE 09

The Sounds of Silence T

he sounds of silence are blaring across our country. The government has signed a deal which has forfeited the future of all Guyanese, and not a tweak of protest is being heard in Guyana, apart from the tweets which are emanating from the usual suspects. It is now clear why the government took so long to make public its deal with Exxon Mobil. It delayed the release of the contract until it was pressured to so do. In so doing, the release has been brought closer to the date of oil production so as to cushion the fallout from a deal which has effectively squirreled away the future of Guyanese. A worse deal Guyana has never been seen before. The agreement signed between Exxon Mobil and the Government is a far worse deal than any which has been signed before. And Guyana is notorious for selling out the country's interests to investors. 2% royalty and US$18M in signing bonus represents a betrayal Yet, amidst all of this, there are some people who are still foolish enough to believe that oil riches are about to descend on Guyana. They believe that Guyana has gotten a good deal. Guyana has been sold for a pittance. The Exxon Mobil deal is the mother of all betrayals. The future of Guyanese has been sold out. Guyanese will get crumbs while the feast will be enjoyed by Exxon. Yet, for all that has so far been said by the usual

suspects, not a word of protest has come from civil society or from the political parties other than the PPPC. This is shameful neglect of the civic responsibilities of political parties and civil society organizations. It may be that they lack the technical expertise to appreciate the loss which the country suffered by settling for a 2% royalty. It may be that they do not understand what a signing bonus should represent and the betrayal involved in a government only being concerned with legal fees for a possible ICJ case rather than with Guyana obtaining a good deal. It may be that they do not appreciate what Guyana should have been asking for and what it settled for. It is time for civil society and political parties, outside of the main opposition, to be educated about this sour deal which we are told was negotiated, not by international lawyers, but by persons who would never have before negotiated any oil agreement dealing with reserves of this scale. The GGMC should not have been pitted against the powerful legal team of Exxon Mobil. There is only one logical outcome of such a mismatch – a national disaster. And this is what the Exxon Mobil deal represents. It is a national disaster. The time has come for the public to be educated on this agreement. It is time for a national discussion to take place on this agreement. Experts in the petroleum

sector, and especially those who have experience in negotiating such deals, should be invited to give their input. Seminars should be held to discuss the issue. The Private Sector Commission should take the lead in having a balanced panel pronounce on whether the signing bonus was too minuscule, and whether the royalty rate should have been higher - all factors. This newspaper should invite critical inputs from persons possessing the know-how about these

They never, in their wildest dreams, would expect to learn that this is now a myth and that the promise of vast riches is now an illusion, because the earnings that Guyana will receive will not be sufficient to deliver the good life. US$300M a year is not going to make Guyana rich, not with the decline in almost all sectors of the economy since the APNU+AFC coalition got into office. The future of Guyana is at stake. An urgent public debate is needed on this

horrible deal which has been signed and which has effectively forfeited the good life for all. The sounds of silence must now be replaced by roars of debate and discussion, so that everyone will understand the scale of the betrayal which has been perpetrated against them.

Declining gastro cases linked to GWI, Public Health alliance

C

l o s e collaboration between the Guyana Water Incorporated [GWI] and the Ministry of Public Health, may have been one of the country's most important tactical moves to prevent an upsurge of gastroenteritis. For a number of years the public health sector has been consistently faced with increasing cases of gastroenteritis often linked to increase rainfall and subsequent flooding in some hinterland regions. Many of these regions did not readily embrace hygienic habits. But an alliance was formed between the Public Health Ministry and GWI to help tackle this daunting situation that had claimed the lives of some, particularly children, in the past.

Dem boys seh... SWAT mean Smuggling Whisky All de Time Jagdeo, that scamp, cultivate a culture to de extent that it deh in Soulja Bai camp. Police thiefing, Army thiefing, Customs thiefing and high, high public officials under Soulja Bai thiefing and mekking deal, and de man not seeing. Look wha happen to de head of de SWAT. When he get de job he was told SWAT means Special Weapons and Tactics. That is to fight crime. Dem boys hear that when he get ketch wid 30 cases of likker he tell de police that he was de head of SWAT. When de young officer ask him what is de meaning of SWAT. He tell de officer, “Smuggling Whisky All de Time.” Dem boys hear when he get hold he was sober. He tell de police de whisky is he own. He seh he was carrying it for de police Old Year's Night party. When de officer didn't buy de story and de commander get involve and announce he gun carry down de man to HQ, de SWAT man put a bottle to he head.

contracts. It is important that the public have all the information which they need, to make their own assessment of this deal. At the end of the day, the public must not have false expectations as to what the petroleum industry will deliver. There are many Guyanese who felt that the discovery of oil would have transformed their fortunes. They were of the opinion that given the scale of the discovery made in 2015 that Guyana would be rich.

When he meet HQ he had to be drunk because he change he story. He tell dem he don't know de minibus driver and how he beg de man fuh a drop to town. Dem boys seh not even a goat or a dankey would believe that story. Dem boys hear nuff nancy story similar to this when Jagdeo, that scamp, was president. Everybady watching to see how Soulja Bai gun handle this. Dem hope he don't handle it like how he handle de Joe Shan Lin issue. Joe keep quiet and he keep quiet. After that story, Joe feel shame and he seh he don't want to be attached to anything Chinee. He tell dem boys to call he Jay Tee just like how dem does call Brian Tiwarie –Bee Tee. When dem boys ask him how he get de name Jay Tee, he tell dem boys he do a deed poll. When dem boys check at de Registry dey see Joe Tiwarie. Talk half and dem boys planning to change dem name.

According to Chief Medical O f f i c e r [ C M O ] , D r. Shamdeo Persaud, “provision of safe water, particularly in hinterland communities, has since improved, and we have water safety plans for Regions One and Nine which are the target regions, and we are continuing to work closely with Guyana Water Inc. to further improving the standards.” But according to Dr. Persaud, it is becoming increasingly evident that households are taking precautions; they are recognizing that safe water is critical to preventing diarrhea and that handwashing is important, and these practices are being widely promoted across the school system too. In fact he disclosed that “a lot more people [in the target regions] are opting for a higher standard and quality of drinking water such as

treated bottled water and so on, and in some of the hinterland regions this is available and easily accessible.” Added to this, the Ministry has also been conducting campaigns to encourage people to practice safe and hygienic measures so that they can continue to protect themselves, said Dr. Persaud. Such deliberate measures, he said, have essentially helped to prevent a spike and ensure a decline in gastroenteritis in some areas. “It has either been keeping steady or decreasing in most regions,” said Dr. Persaud. Gastroenteritis, also known as infectious diarrhea, is essentially an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that involves the stomach and small intestine. Symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, and

abdominal pain. Fever, lack of energy, and dehydration may also occur. Dr. Persaud is convinced that it was the Ministry's proactiveness last year that allowed for a similar downward trend. “Last year, even though there were heavy rains, we didn't see increasing cases…last year our records were showing downward trends,” said Dr. Persaud, even as he expressed optimism that this year will see a similar state of affairs. In January of last year, Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, and a team of medical officials were on their way to Region Nine to check on reports of gastroenteritis. There they joined medical personnel who are already on the ground and were able to contain a potential outbreak. Among (continued on page 10)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Thursday January 04, 2018

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

2017 review: Where do I begin? “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened.” Anatole France How do I prioritize the issues I have covered in 2017? There were so many vexations in 2017. Readers would say they expect me to highlight the negatives, but these negatives were unnecessary. They make Guyana the stupidest country. I am going to cite examples as my review of 2017 continues. I have an ongoing email exchange with a friend who was my contemporary when I was a graduate student at the University of Toronto. He responded with an attachment of a road closure sign in Toronto that is still conspicuous, even though the road has been repaired. This was in response to my complaint that at Camp Road and Young Street, there is a warning sign telling motorists travelling west on Carifesta Avenue to turn south into Camp Street because Young Street is under reconstruction. That rehabilitation was

completed three years ago. The sign is still there. Days after, he attached a report on poverty in the US, and I forwarded same to the editors and publisher of this paper. His point to me is that I lament on things in Guyana that occur in North America too. I hit back at him by asserting that when I attended the University of Toronto, there were sixty thousand students, yet that place was like a paradise compared to UG. I spent twenty-six years teaching at a university of a mere five thousand students, and saw how dystopian it was. Strangely enough, he replied to that email with the words; “I feel your pain.” This is one of my good friends in Canada, and he means well, but after being so far and so long away from Guyana, he simply would not be able to fathom the nature of life here. I will do a separate column on the 2017 telephone directory. It is a complete mess. Rewind the tape fifteen years ago and five times I complained in

my columns about the incompetence in the compilation of the directory. When I show you what is missing from that directory compared to the one in 2014 you will be livid. This is in an age of high technology, where a high school boy can take the data and do a well-researched directory. How much deeper can we go in the sea of nihilism? Here are the words in my reply to my friend in Toronto; “thanks for the info and your point is well taken and elegant, somehow I feel Canada will pull through, but we here don't see changes on the horizon. Canada has its problems which you soundly highlighted, but Canada will continue to survive and places like Guyana will continue to beg countries like Canada; where is the future here Crommie? Peace my brother.” This has been a long digression from my main assessment in this my first article that will look back at Guyana in 2017 and as noted

above; I really don't know where to begin. There were two types of hurt I felt over a manifestation of social ugliness at the Eugene F. Correia Airport at Ogle. It occurred as 2016 was about to end, so I have included it in my review of 2017. It is not only the unnecessary exterminations of lovely puppies, but the fact that not one human being in Guyana raised a voice about that beastly descent into barbarism, despite photographs in the Chronicle of the dead puppies. I was in Kaieteur News when this gold-miner came in with two of his staffers and explained how his dogs

were saved, literally by minutes, from being killed. Mr. Glenn Lall, Adam Harris and the rest of the staff were angry after that man explained how they were killing puppies at the airport because of lack of documentation. This paper ran the story with photographs of the dogs and the three men. Not one minister offered a comment. I wasn't surprised. I make no apologies for saying that philistines would not see anything wrong with murdering puppies I hope my friend “Crommie” in Toronto will react to what is written here, and I wonder if he believes that would happen in Canada. I lived in Canada

Frederick Kissoon and I am telling Crommie that it would not have happened. This is Godforsaken Guyana, Crommie, where irrationalities have no limits. I will continue my review of 2017 and hope in the next column I will know where to start, because the Faustian waves that drowned Guyana in 2017 were huge. I will probably begin with the death of democracy at City Hall.

Declining gastro cases linked to GWI... From page 9 the areas that were given keen attention were Aishalton, Awarewaunau and Shea villages. As part of the response, a team of doctors and environmental assistants, along with an Infectious Disease Staff (IDS) Nurse, were in the Region to ascertain the cause of reported cases, in addition to treating those who were infected. The number of reported and diagnosed cases recorded in early January of last year was 58. At the forefront in ensuing that the disease was kept to a minimum was former Minister of Public Health, Dr. George

Norton, who had weeks earlier taken medication to the region, including those for the treatment of gastroenteritis. While the rains have had the Ministry on high alert for gastroenteritis, Dr. Persaud said that the Ministry during the past year had seen an increase in the number of skin infection cases. These, he said, have been linked to the tropical weather. “In dry conditions, like we had during some parts of the last year, there are a lot of skin infection cases. But these were not because of any infectious agents, it was more an allergic reaction,” explained Dr. Persaud.

Thursday January 04, 2018

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Thursday January 04, 2018

GRA reviewing Exxon's cost recovery claims By Kiana Wilburg

T

he Guyana R e v e n u e Authority (GRA) has commenced the review of cost recovery claims by USA oil giant, ExxonMobil. This was recently confirmed by GRA CommissionerGeneral, Godfrey Statia. In an exclusive interview with this newspaper, Statia explained that based on the contractual arrangements, ExxonMobil is allowed to recover 75 percent of its costs in a given year. He explained that expenses which are not recovered for that year are carried forward to the following year. Statia said, “So what you need to do is audit those costs …It is important to do a proper audit because a failure to do so can have implications for the government's cut of the pie. The higher the expenses, the smaller the take could be, so the audits need to be effective. But we have started the review of the costs incurred thus far by ExxonMobil. The audit of the claims by ExxonMobil started last year.” The CommissionerGeneral said, “You cannot wait until 2020, or for production to start, for you to begin reviewing the costs. Until the Petroleum Commission is set up, GRA will continue to review everything that would be going into cost recovery claims. We are looking after taxes. That is why we are monitoring their

there is urgency to develop skills in this area.

expenses…” He added, “There were a few things which were identified to ExxonMobil regarding their claims and we have asked them some questions on it. We have collected withholding tax and when production comes, corporation tax will kick in, but it will be subtracted from Government's share. Our staff is also being trained in cost recovery. We are at the forefront of it.” IMF URGES The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also urged the authorities of Guyana to commence auditing of all exploration, development costs by USA oil operator, ExxonMobil. The Fund made this known in one of its recent reports on Guyana's oil sector. This document was handed over to the government last year. Elaborating further on the matter, the IMF said that plans to establish a petroleum industry taxpayer unit attached to the large taxpayer office in the Guyana Revenue Authority should be prioritized. The Fund said that this effort is supported by a consultant from the US Treasury Office of Technical Assistance. The IMF said, “It will be important for this unit to start verifying and undertaking audits of cost incurred during the exploration and development phase, which is getting underway now. It would be advantageous to establish close working relations between the GRA

GRA CommissionerGeneral, Godfrey Statia and the sector regulators (Ministry of Natural Resources, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and the prospective Petroleum Commission) to ensure that the limited petroleum sector expertise in government is applied most efficiently.” The International Monetary Fund said the intention is that the Guyana Revenue Authority will be the single revenue collection agency for the petroleum sector. It opined that this is a reasonable decision, given the key role played by the Production Sharing Agreement and the pay-onbehalf arrangement for corporate income tax in existing contracts (this is where the contractor's income tax obligations are settled from the government's share of the profit oil). However, given the limited experience in the GRA with petroleum taxation, the IMF said that

COST RECOVERY Oil production is expected to get into to full swing by March 2020. That is less than two years away. But even at this point, the Government is yet to point out what 'specific' measures are in place to ensure that it can authenticate cost recovery claims by Exxon. Kaieteur News had asked President David Granger to provide some details in this regard and he was unable to. The said question was also put to the nation's point man on oil and gas, Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman. He too is yet to list just two things that are in place to ensure Guyana is not robbed through such claims. At a recent press conference, Trotman said that the authenticity of cost recovery claims was one of the main discussions that he

and others had with the IMF and its experts. Trotman acknowledged that indeed, several countries around the world – Kenya, Ghana, USA and Great Britain, have had struggles with ensuring cost recovery is precise and transparent . The Natural Resources Minister said, “We have turned to some of the best financial experts in the world and they have come, they have done their assessments and they will be guiding us. It is a work in progress and we are doing better by the day.” When Kaieteur News still insisted on him outlining a few provisions in this regard, he pointed out that the Guyana Revenue Authority was able to garner $900M in taxes due to its attentiveness in this regard. TANZANIA AND INDONESIA Kaieteur News had carried an article on the

Tanzanian experience with ExxonMobil in which it was stated that the country had serious difficulty in verifying how the figure of “cost oil” was arrived at. Upon examination of the leaked contract with ExxonMobil, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee disclosed that there was no “ring fencing” of blocks and that the Production Sharing Agreement contained no provision to guard against the incurrence of costs in one block, and recovering them from another profitable block. The Chairman referred to the writings of Nobel Laureate Joseph Stiglitz who asserted that “The fact that the typical contract allows the oil companies to walk away with the windfall profits suggests that something is wrong with the way these contracts are (continued on page 19)

Cops solve 2016 slaying of gold miner...

Mazaruni Prison inmate confesses to slitting Brazilian’s throat

P

olice announced last night that they were on the verge of solving the murder of Brazilian gold miner Nandinho De Costa Souza, who was found with his throat slit in his Fish Creek, Cuyuni River camp on February 9, 2016. A police release stated that police have received confessions from two suspects, including a presently-incarcerated man, who has confessed to carrying out the gruesome killing. “Yesterday, detectives arrested a 25-year-old male

suspect who resides at Goshen, Essequibo River. During interrogation, he admitted to being one of four persons who committed the crime,” the release stated. “A very close family member of the suspect, who is currently incarcerated at the Mazaruni Prison, serving a sentence for robbery under a name that is not his own, has been implicated as one of the other three suspects. The convict, during a confrontation, has confessed to being the one who used a sharp instrument to slit the victim's throat.” Nandinho De Costa

Sousa, called 'Vandam,' of Boa Vista, Brazil, was found with his throat slit in his mining camp. The corpse was next to a sluice box, and a quantity of gold was missing. The victim, who reportedly owned two land dredges, was reportedly last seen washing down the sluice box with one of the men suspected of killing him. Police had issued a wanted bulletin for 22-yearold Fedal Williams of Rock View, Essequibo River, in relation to De Costa Sousa's murder.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Thursday January 04, 2018

Security camera records fisherman murdering friend ‌after 'drinking session' escalates into fight

Murdered: Sahadeo Sankar

A

Closed Circuit Te l e v i s i o n (CCTV) camera at a grocery recorded a 32year-old man beating his drinking buddy to death at Crabwood Creek,

Corentyne, yesterday. Sahadeo Sankar, 40, who was also a fisherman, was found dead at around 03.00 hrs, near a bridge leading to the shop. Images on the CCTV

Sankar's body was found in this section outside

camera reportedly showed Sankar being attacked by another fisherman, who has since confessed to committing the act. The 32-year-old suspect has alleged that the killing occurred after a drinking session escalated into a fight, in which the victim attacked him with a knife. The detained man alleged that he was imbibing with Sankar when they began to quarrel. The

argument escalated into a scuffle and Sankar allegedly stabbed his drinking buddy with a knife. In retaliation, the other fisherman struck Sankar several times. Manoj Seosankar, who owns the grocery store where the incident took place, revealed that the killing was caught on his CCTV camera. "The camera show that the victim run and the other man (known as 'Buckman') run he and cuff he up. He fall down then the suspect go back over the road and then he come back and stomp pon he (Sankar),� Seosankar said The shopkeeper's wife

The 32-year-old suspect

found Sankar's body on the couple's bridge at approximately 04:00 hrs yesterday. "When me wife come down the step then me wife raise the alarm and then people start gather round and seh how he dead. Dem see blood and so and then me call the police", the shop owner said. Sankar's body is presently at the Skeldon Mortuary awaiting a post mortem examination.

Thursday January 04, 2018

Kaieteur News

PAGE 19

Chinese national charged Duo face court for forged for assaulting police officer scrap metal licences

A

Chinese National yesterday made an appearance in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts to answer to four charges, days after a video was circulating on social media of her assaulting several persons including a peace officer who was executing her duty. Forty-eight-year-old Miae Kim, a businesswoman of Lot 149 D'Andrade Street, Newtown, Georgetown, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. The first charge alleged that on December 29 at Robb Street and Avenue of the Republic, she unlawfully assaulted Shadee Puran. It was further alleged that on the same day and the same location she unlawfully assaulted Natalie Gibbons, woman police constable, who was acting in the execution of her duty. It was also alleged that she resisted arrest by the police officer and she also behaved disorderly in public. Kim denied all the charges after they were read to her by the Magistrate. The defendant was represented by Attorney-at-law Bernard DeSilva. The lawyer asked that bail be granted to his client since the matters arose from his client defending her property which was damaged by Shadee Gibbons.

T

Charged: Miae Kim The lawyer added that his client is married to a Guyanese and she is the owner of a store which is located on Robb Street, Georgetown. Police Prosecutor Warren Thornhill objected to bail being granted to the defendant citing that she is not a Guyanese and if bail is granted to her she would not returnto court for the completion of the trial. The mother of one was ordered to post $20,000 bail and instructed to make her next court appearance on January 8.

City Hall still to renew Cevon's waste collection contract

A

midst growing concerns over the garbage build-up in the city, Solid Waste Collector, Cevon's Waste Management has noted their contention over the stance taken by the Georgetown Mayor and City Council in renewing their contract. According to a statement from the company, City Hall has not taken any steps to renew its contract, despite the solid waste issue facing the city. Earlier this year, the council had announced that they could no longer afford to sustain the service of private operators Cevon's and Puran Brothers Waste Disposal. The two companies therefore, withdrew their services citing non payment of bills amounting to over $300 million.

GRA reviewing Exxon's... From page 12 designed.” This newspaper also reported Indonesia's switch from the profit-sharing model to a revenue-sharing one. This was because each passing year had seen a dwindling of the country's share of profits, in the belief that oil companies were inflating their costs. This was despite the fact that the government-owned entity that manages the oil sector has a staff of 750 professionals and approximately 80% of that staff is involved in the verification of cost recovery claims by oil companies to ensure that they are fair and accurate. With the aforementioned in mind, Chartered Accountant Anand Goolsarran insisted that there are limited resources available in Guyana to enable the independent verification of the accuracy and reasonableness of the costs that are chargeable to revenue. He said it is mainly for this reason that the Government of Guyana should re-negotiate the contract with ExxonMobil to allow for a revenue-sharing model to be in place.

But with a heavy and concentrated level of garbage in the city, Central Government was forced to step in to aid City Hall with the bill. Over the past month the companies had been collecting garbage under the purview of the central government. However, the arrangement under which the Government of Guyana financed the garbage disposal services to the capital came to an end on December 31, 2017. The Company in the statement noted that there exists no contractual arrangement between Cevon's Waste Management and the Georgetown Municipality for garbage collection since August 2017. “Further, it has not been our company's impression that City Hall had made any serious effort to use the November 27 – December 31 period to seek re-engagement with its long-term garbage collection contractors, namely Cevon's Waste Management and Puran Brothers. Indeed, and up until Sunday December 31, City Hall found reason to set aside such opportunities as arose out of inquiries by our company to meet in an effort to arrive at a workable arrangement that would put behind us the unacceptable status quo that had attended the previous arrangement.” The Waste Management Company nonetheless stated that it stands altogether prepared to continue to serve the capital in the manner that it has done for several years. “Cevon's Waste Management stands ready at a moment's notice to meet with the relevant City officials to engage in discourse that would result in a new agreement for garbage disposal that would be both reassuring and binding on the parties concerned. We believe, however, the objective observers would understand, even embrace our position that it is altogether undesirable to provide the service which it does under conditions which, just recently, resulted in much difficulty for our capital.”

wo men yesterday made an appearance in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, for allegedly forging scrap metal export licences. Thirty-three-year-old Neilson McKenzie Jr. former Business liaison officer at the Ministry of Business, of Timehri Hill, East Bank Demerara, and Omal Sutton, 29 of Lot 101 Pike Street, Kitty, both denied the charge which alleged that between June 20 and October 2 at Georgetown, with intent to defraud, they forged two scrap metal export licences, purported to show that same was genuine. The men were charged separately for the offence. McKenzie Jr. was represented by Attorney-at-law Keoma Griffith. The lawyer in an application to secure bail for his client told the court that his client is the Hotel manager of Tower Suites and he is also a language and communication coach at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Attorney-at-law Dexter Todd represented Sutton. He told the court that his client fully cooperated with the investigation and was released on $100,000 station bail. He asked that bail be granted to his client in a reasonable amount, since he is not a flight risk. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore objected to bail being granted to the defendants, citing the serious nature of the offence and the penalty the charge attracts. The defendants were granted $150,000 bail each by the Chief Magistrate. They were instructed to make their next court appearance on January 10. According to information, there was the discovery of forged documents relating to a

Omal Sutton number of containers of scrap metal at the Water Street wharf of the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL). A GRA employee had noticed some discrepancies pertaining to the export licences for containers of scrap metal being sent overseas. The discrepancies, especially concerns over the signatures on the documents, were brought to the attention of senior GRA officials who immediately launched a probe. The signatures on the documents were said to have been forged. An investigation was carried out and several persons were arrested.

Taxi driver charged for causing death in Grove accident - released on $500,000 bail

A

taxi driver was yesterday c h a rg e d a n d r e l e a s e d o n $500,000 bail by a City Magistrate after he denied a charge of causing the death of an elderly man on the Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara. Twenty-seven-year-old Keon Haynes of Lot 627 Phase 1 B Wisroc Housing Scheme, Linden, denied the charge which alleged that on August 23 at Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara, he drove hire car HC 3809 in a manner dangerous to the public, causing the death of 64-year-old George Klass. The defendant was represented by Attorney-at-law James Bond. The lawyer asked that reasonable bail be granted to his client citing that his client was not a fault. The lawyer added that his client fully cooperated with the investigation and was released on $100,000 station bail. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore objected to bail being granted to the defendant citing the serious nature of the offence and the fact that a life was lost. The prosecutor went on to tell the court that the defendant saw the elderly man on his cycle while he was attempting to cross the road and he collided with the cyclist. According to reports, Klass was slammed by the defendant's vehicle while he was attempting to cross the Grove Public Road. As a result of the impact, Klass was pitched

Keon Haynes

off his bicycle and flung some distance away. He sustained head injuries and was pronounced dead at the Georgetown Public Hospital. The Chief Magistrate ordered that the defendant's licence be suspended until the completion of the trial. He was instructed to make his next court appearance on January 17.

PAGE 22

FOR RENT

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK;Guyanapassport application. G r a p h i c s design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar Budhram’s Landscaping service” Free advice, free design, free after care, followup. 656-1326. Eagle’s: Re-gas –low prices, washing machine repairs, gas stove, plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/646-0966 Installations, repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing Machine, Stove etc: Call Nick 627-3206, 6301600. Xtreme Clean- Janitorial and Home Management Services. For washing, painting, renting and administrative services. Call: 216-3467.

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Foxtail, Supari, Royal Palm @$1000, Crootons, Ashoka trees, potting soil @$800, Lawn grass, Exora, Ficus 4 for $1000 Tel: 626-1044 Video games and consoles at affordable price. Repairs to video game system .Call:672-2566/265-3231 1 BMW Car $1.7M 1 Cement mixer truck $2.9M 1 Bobcat $3.3M. House lots @ Blankenburg . Contact 6500402/603-1402. LAND FOR SALE Land of Canaan 1.2M, Grove 3.5M, Parafaite, Herstelling, Highway 34 acres Sophia 5.5M, Diamond 4.5M. GME 2312199/618-7483. Parafaite Harmonie- $1M and $1.4M and $2.6M Uivlugt (100ft x 50ft) $2.6M Herstelling. Tel# 656-0701/6117223. PEN PAL Foreign man, confident, generous and loving seeks female Guyanese friend 16-35 for friendship. Whatsapp#1246-835-6908.

Repairs to refrigerators, gas stoves, A/C units, washing machines. Call Lindon: 6411086/ 694-2202

SALON VEHICLE FOR SALE Allion, Primo, Fielder Wagon, Spacio, Bluebird, 212 Carina, NZE, Honda CRV, Toyota IST, RZ & Pit-bull – Call: 650-7501 Unregistered Axela 2011 $2.5M, dark interior, fully loaded, Nissan pickup extra cab $2.1M. Call: 617-5536 One Toyota Fielder Yellow 1.2M One Toyota Spacio White 1.2M One Toyota Spacio Silver 1.2M One Toyota Noah 1.4M Tel: 6643488/611-6632. For sale-1- White Toyota Fielder 2010 unregistered Tel: 624-5650.

Thursday January 04, 2018

Kaieteur News

Make-up Courses with Mac, Bar e M i n e r a l s , etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $90,000 - Nail Technician Course: $35,000. Call: 6471773/688-0009 PROPERTY FOR SALE South Aubrey Barker 100x100 9.5M Diamond 55M, 17M, Parafaite 27M, Supply river side 50x160 31M GME 231-2200/ 6187483 TOLET Enmore Mall spaces available for a variety of business, car parking facilty. Call Richard 6097675/ 674-1705/233-2614.

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Newly built 3-bedroom apartment at lot 6 Water Street, Bagotstown, EBD. 683-9526/613-4582/ 612-7533 Vreed-en-hoop junction. Lessons place, storage bond, office, other. Call 6036400. 2 Bedroom bottom flat @ C Field,Sophia Tel: 619-0094. 1 Flat concrete house (Tiled, grilled,PVC ceiling) 3 bedroom, 1 self-contained room @ Parafaite Harmonie & Onderneerming, $50,000 monthly #662-6818. One three bedroom upstairs in Station street, Kitty, prefer one family. Contact: 627-6132.

CAR RENTAL DOLLY’SCARRENTAL-CALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL:643-5122/6560087, ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807 WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP RATES, SPECIAL OFFERS! . CALL: 690-6494

VACANCY For experience female accounts clerk. Apply in person at Alabama Trading 65 Robb St Bourda. WANTED Drivers, dispatchers and contract cars Tel: 231-0002, 231-0316 1 experienced cook. Call: 226-0554/623-8654. 1 experienced diesel mechanic must have knowledge of welding. 1 labourer. Contact number: 220-2034/623-8078 Live in waitress to work in bar. Call: 604-6606/ 692-4649 1 Welder Arc & gas. 1830years. 643-9125,223-5595. Broad street, Georgetown One Industrial electrician. Phone: 682-2971 One (1) Driver/ Purchaser to work at a Mining firm in G/ Town. Contact #226-9768/6615307 or 615-6172 Security Guards to work in the interior with Mining firm. Age range 38-48. Contact#2269768/615-6172 One (1) Manager/Promotions Manager to work @ Hotel/ Club on Essequibo Coast. Accommodation & attractive salary. Contact: 226-9768/6156172 Experienced shop workers and handy man to work in the interior. Age 18 and older. 2310363 4am-4:30pm. One cashier, one secretary, attractive salary. Call: 2237165. Security guards, one heavy duty mechanic, one cashier, one filing clerk, one accounting clerk, one company secretary. Call: 6044149

Backhoe operator, wood mizer and edger operator, moulder operator. Call Richard 6097675/ 674-1705/233-2614. Urgently neededExperienced canter drivers & bond clerks. Call: 223-5020. Experienced Security Professionals. Must have 3 yrs. experience, past military/security. Send resume & picture by email: visecurityandinvestigators @ g m a i l . c o m Farm workers, maintenance workers, labours (@500 per hr) 265-3586. Two workers to work on a cow farm, must be able to milk and graze cows. Tel# 233-2049

Iron content in water being treated by SeaQuest - GWI In seeking to further improve the quality of water, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) recently noted that the iron content in water, which is recognised by its dark orange, brown colour, is being treated by SeaQuest, a substance that is used to treat discoloured water and to generally improve water quality. Although the water company acknowledged that it fails to often provide a 24hr water supply, it is boasting of the higher water quality standard, meaning that it is safe for consumption. Relating this view was Managing Director, Dr. Richard Van-West Charles, who, while agreeing that the iron content in water is relatively high, stated that the levels are not dangerous to health. “We consider not only human health, but we consider the use of water for you to use for your laundry, for your tiles in your bath, your sanitary ware et cetera, and we know that it has been a problem in some communities, where you are unable to wash your laundry with the water coming from GWI, but in many communities that has improved”. The Essequibo Coast, which according to him is likely to have the highest iron content in the country, had an intervention by the GWI, with the use of SeaQuest. Also benefitting from the initiative were several other communities including Edinburgh, Ithaca, Agricola, Goed Fortuin, Festival City

Chef and assistant cook. Call: 225-7933 or visit us 172 Sheriff Street. General maintenance man, Ages 24-55. Address 233 South road, Tele# 225-0198 One customer service representative. Age 18 and over. Must have working experience, send application via email: humredes@gmail.com One receptionist, age 18 and over, must have working experience. Please send application via email: humresdes@gmail.com

EDUCATION Register your child for after school classes for slow learners in Mathematics, Reading, Phonics, Spelling, etc. Call: 675-4379 St John First Aid/ CPR Course on Saturday, January 6th 2018 Cowan St. Kingston Call: 2259082 VACANCY

One Mechanic with sewing machine experience, age 25 and over, please send application via email: humresdes@gmail.com

Male factory worker, age 18 and above, must have working experience. For more info call: 223-0090

One maid to work in Atlantic Gardens, ECD, Live-in (optional) 638-5303, 227-7380.

Salesperson/cashiers ages 2545 for general store on the East Coast. Call: 642-1141

GWI’s Managing Director, Dr. Richard Van-West Charles and a few others. Dr. Van-West Charles was also keen to note at least one of the villages, La Bonne Intention on the East Coast of Demerara, had much need for the SeaQuest intervention. “We understand the unease it has caused you.” During this year, the company plans to establish filtration systems, which are currently being tested in Mabaruma. In addition to that location, the Managing Director revealed that there are several more Hinterland communities that deserve an intervention as it relates to water quality. Due to procuring issues, the company reportedly was unable to provide some 30 communities with filters in 2016. The communities which span Regions One, Seven, Eight, and Nine, according to him, will ‘hopefully’ be able to benefit from the filters during 2018.

18 months jail for clothes... From page 17 the arrest of Sampson. The prosecutor added that the teen took police ranks to the area where he allegedly hid the items, but nothing was found. The court was told that Sampson was previously charged for a similar offence. However, the charge against him was dismissed after the virtual complainant refused to give evidence. Having considered the value of the items, the prevalence of the offence and the need to prevent others from commissioning the offence, Magistrate Latchman imposed the custodial sentence.

Kaieteur News

Thursday January 04, 2018

PAGE 23

Research paper by UG graduate, two others selected for int'l journal

C

limate Change is a global issue that researchers have been continually working to minimize, especially with the continuous emissions of greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide, and other forms of carbon. Carbon dioxide is one of the most significant causes of global warming. Jonelle Cornette, Clairmont Clementson and David Fredricks in their research have found a promising amendment for soil to help in the reduction of climate change while increasing soil productivity. The research paper titled; 'Environmentally sustainable management of Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) in Guyana', seeks to assess the suitability of water hyacinth as a soil amendment. Water hyacinth is a plant that grows on the surface of water. The plant is a common sight in the waterways of Guyana. “In Guyana water hyacinth has impeded water flow in irrigation and drainage canals resulting in eutrophication and provides or enhances breeding places for disease-carrying mosquitoes. It exhibits rapid growth and can spread quickly making it very difficult to control once it becomes fully established,” the research paper explains. Water hyacinth is one of the fastest growing plants. After cleaning drains, persons in Guyana would typically leave the plant along with other items on the road side for later removal. The researchers are proposing a better way for the usage of water hyacinth by turning the aquatic plant

David Fredricks

Water Hyacinth

Clairmont Clementson

into biochar. Biochar is a fine grained and porous substance that comes from pyrolysis (heating an organic material without oxygen). The trio collected fresh water hyacinth from a drainage system in Georgetown and cut them

into small pieces. The pieces were allowed to dry for 18 days after which they were ground into small pieces and prepared for pyrolysis. The now dry and ground hyacinth was placed on crucibles (pots) and it was put into the oven with three samples heated at different

temperatures of 300 o C, 450oC and 500oC. The research found that after pyrolysis the content of the ash and carbon increased while matter that are likely to change easily (volatile matter) decreased. This finding indicated that there was a higher concentration of organic matter available for the long term storage of carbon that has the potential of becoming carbon dioxide gas and other forms of carbon to avoid climate change. The findings noted that “the presence of micronutrients and high pH makes biochar from these water hyacinth samples suitable as a liming agent and a soil amendment for vegetables, legumes and grains in openfield or shaded conditions. Also, the biochar is recommended as a fertilization and soil improvement additive to aid the expansion of Guyana's agricultural production into its Hilly Sand and Clay Region. Field trials should be done to compare the

efficacy of this soil amendment to chemical fertilizer and other natural sources.” “In Guyana, there is an abundance (34,809 km2) of sand and sandy loam soils (800 Soil Series) located in the Intermediate Savannahs and the Soesdyke Highway (Hilly Sand and Clay Region) that is presently under-utilized but could be improved for agricultural production. These soils are extremely fragile, acidic, excessively drained and low in natural fertility. These soils will require an amendment to make them productive. The application of biochar to these soils will improve their quality and enhance their potential for agricultural production.” As a liming agent the biochar can be used on acidic soils to help reduce and regulate the acidity levels. The biochar from the water hyacinth would be more environmentally friendly and could help reduce the usage of chemical fertilizers that cause damage to soil and

even our waterways when the rain washes away the fertilizers. Jonelle Cornette, Research Assistant, University of Guyana graduated last November with a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Studies. The 24 year old Diamond Housing Scheme resident was previously employed at Demerara Distillers Ltd. as a Quality Assurance Analyst before she decided that she wanted something more. Having a passion for research and environmental studies she later enrolled at UG. After receiving an A for her research paper on water hyacinth she submitted it to the Scientific & Academic Publishing (SAP) journal. The paper is expected to be published by mid-January in the International Journal of Agriculture and Forestry, January 2018 Issue. Clairmont Clementson and David Fredricks are Research Scientists at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

CCJ recommends APEX technology for local courts

W

hile systemic delays, lack of transparency, and a shortage of staff are among issues affecting the performance of judicial systems around the region, the Caribbean Court of Justice, (CCJ) continues to recommend administrative approaches which result in the high quality deliverance of justice. In his summary report for 2017, President of the CCJ, Sir Dennis Byron highlighted the use of various technological and administrative approaches which help to aid the high quality justice, guaranteeing accessibility, fairness and transparency. He recommended the same

approach to help countries like Guyana tackle slothfulness and achieve judicial excellence. Among its many initiatives, Sir Dennis noted the significance of the Advanced Performance Exponents Inc. (APEX), which is a special-purpose, non-profit agency, committed to delivering technology-based solutions and services to support court systems. APEX is owned by the CCJ, the regional judiciaries and bar associations. “I believe that it has the potential to further advance the justice landscape of the region.” APEX develops, facilitates, programmes and initiatives aimed

at strengthening the justice systems of the region and improving the standards of efficiency of courtrelated services. According to the CCJ President, information technology is a critical component in the court's operations, which remains a top priority for the institution, as it continues to pursue its work in support of its mission, vision and strategic goals. “The use of technology plays a key role in driving the transformation within the organization; its systems, its processes and its people, towards the improvement of electronic access to the court's case files and

CCJ President, Sir Dennis Byron

information, making court operations more transparent and efficient, and ensuring the longterm preservation of court data and information and cutting edge court customer service delivery.” Sir Dennis noted, therefore, that the Court has, through its original and appellate jurisdictions, cemented several important principles of law, particularly supported by the application and refinement of comprehensive case management principles which have resulted in no case backlog. “I am pleased to share the work of the Caribbean Court of Justice with our stakeholders,” he added.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Thursday January 04, 2018

Petrobras agrees to pay nearly $3 billion to settle class action suit Rio de Janeiro (AFP) - Petrobras has agreed to pay $2.95 billion to settle a class action suit in New York brought on behalf investors harmed by a huge corruption scandal at the Brazilian state oil giant, the company said yesterday. “The agreement, which will be submitted for consideration of the judge, seeks to close all suits currently under way,” Petrobras said in a statement filed with the regulator of Brazil’s capital markets. The oil company, which admits no guilt under the settlement, proposes making the payment in two $983 million installments, followed by a third payment of $984 million. The first payment would be made within 10 days of the settlement’s preliminary approval by the judge, the second within 10 days of a definitive green light and the final one within six months or by January 15, 2019, whichever comes first. The settlement would be reflected in the company’s fourth quarter 2017 earnings. Petrobras said the agreement would eliminate the risk of an adverse verdict, which could have “material adverse effects for the company and its financial situation.” The agreement “does not constitute an admission of guilt or of the practice of irregular acts” as the company regards itself as “a victim” of the crimes uncovered by Brazilian prosecutors. A massive embezzlement and bribery scheme involving a network of company executives and politicians is estimated to have caused the company more than $2 billion in losses. The lawsuit was filed by individuals and pension funds that had invested in Petrobras through complex financial products. Those had been acquired at a price based on the estimated value of Petrobras’s assets. After the scandal broke, however, the company’s assets were depreciated, causing losses for numerous investors. The company wrote off a loss of more than $2 billion on its 2014 earnings.

Thursday January 04, 2018

Kaieteur News

Egypt using death sentences to ‘settle scores,’ lawyer says

Protesters gathered outside a court building in Cairo in 2017 hold a sign saying “Do not execute the innocents of Kafr el-Sheikh. Lotfy Ibrahim (Khalil) is not a killer.” (CNN)The number of civilians sentenced to death in Egypt’s military courts leapt from 60 in 2016 to at least 112 in 2017, according to two independent rights groups. Human rights advocates say the alarming numbers recorded by the Egyptian Coordination for Rights & Freedoms and the Initiative for Personal Rights are shocking — but the stories behind them are even more harrowing. What happened to four families from the northern city of Kafr el-Sheikh is a case in point. After more than a year of campaigning to have their loved ones’ death sentences commuted in a case clouded by allegations of flaws in Egypt’s judicial system, they received phone calls on Monday directing them to collect their relatives’ bodies early Tuesday. The families of Lotfy Khalil, Sameh Abdalla, Ahmed Abdelhadi and Ahmed Salama told CNN they received the calls from a police officer at an Alexandria prison. The four defendants were accused of killing three military cadets in a bomb attack on a bus in Kafr El-Sheikh on April 15, 2015. Their subsequent trial and appeals became known in the media as the Kafr el-Sheikh case. Because the attack happened on a main street, the case came under military jurisdiction due to a recent presidential decree granting Egypt’s military the authority for policing public places and land up to 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) from public roads. The case is the latest in which civilians were convicted and sentenced to death by

Egypt’s military courts — a process used by successive Egyptian governments since the mid-1960s. “The way this case has been handled is a classic example of how the judicial system here has become a joke,” said Osama Bayoumi, a lawyer for the families. In the last eight months, CNN has tracked the cases of 11 civilians who received the death penalty in military courts over the last two years. In all cases, families claim their imprisoned relatives disappeared for weeks before they were charged by authorities who used confessions allegedly obtained under torture. Such treatment would be a violation of suspects’ due process rights under Egypt’s constitution. The Egyptian government has denied mistreating the detainees or using torture in interrogations. In September this year rights group Human Rights Watch said in a report that Egyptian police and national security officers had carried out widespread and systematic torture of prisoners. The government also denied the allegations in the HRW report and again dismissed charges of systematic torture. Tracking and reporting human rights violations in Egypt has been difficult. Organizations such as the Egyptian Coordination for Rights & Freedoms and the Initiative for Personal Rights have been seen by international rights groups and the media as the most reliable sources for verifying cases on the ground.

Chinese company barred from taking over MoneyGram (CNN) MoneyGram is calling off its merger with a Chinese financial services giant after failing to get approval from the U.S. government. “The geopolitical environment has changed considerably since we first announced the proposed transaction with Ant Financial nearly a year ago,” MoneyGram (MGI) CEO Alex Holmes said in a statement Tuesday. The deal between Ant Financial, an affiliate of Jack Ma’s tech company Alibaba (BABA), and the American

money transfer service was first announced in January 2017. Ant Financial originally agreed to pay $880 million, but upped its offer to $1.2 billion in April after a U.S. company made an unsolicited bid on MoneyGram. The agreement had been under review by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, the inter-agency body that vets deals that could give a foreign investor control of a U.S. business. “Despite our best efforts to work cooperatively with the U.S. government, it has now become clear that CFIUS will

not approve this merger,” Holmes said. The Treasury Department, which chairs CFIUS, said the agency is “prohibited by statute from publicly disclosing information filed with CFIUS.” “CFIUS reviews focus on national security concerns and Treasury takes the role as Chair of CFIUS very seriously, to ensure that CFIUS identifies and addresses any national security concerns posed by such foreign investment,” a spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

Thursday January 04, 2018

Kaieteur News

Ethiopia to release political prisoners, says Prime Minister

(BBC) In a surprise move, Ethiopia’s prime minister has announced the release of political prisoners and the closure of a notorious detention centre, allegedly used as a torture chamber. Hailemariam Desalegn told a press conference the move was designed to allow political dialogue. But it is unclear exactly who will be released - or when it will take place. Ethiopia, a staunch ally of the West, is accused by rights groups of using mass arrests to stifle opposition. Amnesty International welcomed Mr Hailemariam’s announcement, saying it could signal “the end of an era of bloody repression in Ethiopia” - although warned the closure of Maekelawi detention centre should not be used to “whitewash” the “horrifying” events which took place under its roof. Rights groups have previously accused the government of using anti-

terrorism laws to jail its critics. Those held in jails across the country include opposition activists from the Amhara and Oromia regions, which were at the centre of anti-government protests in 2015 and 2016, as well as the Southern Nations and Nationalities Peoples Region, and journalists who have criticised the government, says BBC Ethiopia correspondent Emmanuel Igunza. The prisoners also include UK citizen Andargachew Tsege, who was seized in 2014 when changing planes in Yemen and forced to go to Ethiopia, where he had been sentenced to death in absentia for his political activities against the state. It is difficult to know exactly how many “political prisoners” there are, but our correspondent estimates there are about 1,000 held under the country’s antiterrorism proclamation, including high profile leaders from the opposition.

However, there are another 5,000 cases still pending, made up of those arrested after a state of emergency was declared in October 2016, he adds. The government has given no timeline on the release of the prisoners including those still awaiting trial - or explained exactly who is considered “political” and who is not. Our reporter notes a number of cases have political backgrounds, but are also linked to groups the government considers to be terrorists. Nineteen people linked to Ginbot 7 - deemed a terror group - were sentenced to prison terms just this week. Whether they will all be released remains to be seen. Any dialogue would have to include legitimate opposition groups like the Oromo Federalist Congress, whose leaders would have to be freed to fully participate in the process, our correspondent says.

‘World’s most expensive vodka’ stolen from Danish bar

(BBC) The bottle, made from gold and silver and with a diamond encrusted cap, was on loan to a Copenhagen bar which had a collection of vodkas on display. Bar owner Brian Ingberg said the bottle had featured in an episode of the political thriller House of Cards. CCTV showed an intruder grab the RussoBaltique vodka and flee the bar. Mr Ingberg, owner of the Cafe 33 bar, told broadcaster TV2 that he had borrowed the bottle from the Latvia-based Dartz Motor Company. “It has been part of my collection for six months, but not anymore,” he said. Russian luxury car maker Russo-Baltique is said to have created the vodka to commemorate the centenary of the company’s factory. The front of the bottle is decorated with leather and has a replica of the radiator guard used for Russo-Baltique cars. The cap is shaped like a a Russian imperial eagle and is encrusted with diamonds. Mr Ingberg said the bottle had featured in an episode of House of Cards as a gift from the Russian president to his US counterpart. Dartz founder Leonard Yankelovich told the BBC he was hopeful he would get the

Danish police are investigating the theft of a bottle of vodka claimed to be the world’s most expensive at $1.3m (£960,000). bottle back. Police say it is not clear if the thief, who struck early on Tuesday, broke in or had a key.

Thursday January 04, 2018

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

PM responds to Police Federation TAWU plans to broaden KINGSTON, Jamaica CMC – Prime Minister Andrew Holness has told police officers that he is dealing with the issues raised by them in their wage negotiations and that he has been holding discussions with Finance Minister Audley Shaw and National Security Robert Montague. Late last month, the Police Federation said it had written Prime Minister Holness two letters urging his intervention in the negotiations after the rank and file of the Jamaica Consta bulary Force (JCF) rejected a two-year six per cent wage offer from the Ministry of Finance. The Federation had described the offer of four per cent increase in the first year and two per cent in the second year as “unacceptable”. Holness in a statement assured the Federation that he has been discussing the issues raised in the letters with Shaw and Montague, noting “however, a much broader discussion with the Cabinet and the Ministry of Finance is necessary, given the far-reaching implications of the issues to be addressed. Prime Minister Holness said the Cabinet “will give further consideration and advice to the minister (of finance and the public service) and his negotiating

Prime Minister Andrew Holness team while making reference to the “delicate state and stage of Jamaica’s economic recovery. “While the economic signals and prospects are all pointing in the right direction, our present action will determine whether or not we stay on course to recovery. It is in our collective interest to ensure that Jamaica stays on the right track,” Holness said. The prime minister said he understood and appreciated “the challenges, personal sacrifice and ultimate danger” with which the police must contend in fighting crime. “The Government of Jamaica highly values the service and contribution of

our policemen and women in providing security for the nation, which is a prerequisite for economic growth and job creation. “We respect the important role played by the Jamaica Police Federation in advocating for the welfare of our police officers,” he added. Members of the JCF have been reporting for duty after earlier reporting sick for work. At the height of the sick out, an estimated 2,730 officers stayed away from work, but the figure has since been reduced to 1,712. Last week, the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) called on the state to quickly resolve the pay dispute with police officers. PSOJ president Howard Mitchell said that there’s no leadership on the issue and that the business sector is concerned that the sickout by the police members is growing with no clear direction from the state. The Ministry of Finance and the Public Service has scheduled a meeting Wednesday to continue negotiations with public sector unions, including the Jamaica Teachers’ Association, which has also rejected the six per cent offer. The unions are seeking pay increases totalling 60 per cent over the 2017-19 period.

PARRY STEPS DOWN AS NRP LEADER

Joseph Parry CHARLESTOWN, Nevis - CMC – Joseph Parry, the former premier and leader of the Nevis reformation Party (NRP) y e s terday announced his intention to step down “over the next few weeks” after the party failed to lost the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) poll late last month. “…let me make it clear what my intention is, my intention over the next few weeks is to step down as leader of the Nevis

Reformation Party. It is important that I give that party the opportunity to organize their transition period so that we can have a smooth movement from the present situation to one that will strengthen the party for the future,” he said in a statement. Parry, who served as premier from 2006-13, was the only successful candidate of the NRP in the December 18 NIA that was won by the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM) headed by Foreign Affairs Minister, Mark Brantley. There had been s p e c u l a t i o n t h a t P a r r y, who began his political career in 1987, and is a former minister in the Federation government of St. Kitts-Nevis, would step down following the defeat. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Dr. Denzil Douglas has praised Parry for his contribution to the development of the twin island Federation, saying “I thank him most graciously for his many years of service and

the extensive contribution to the overall development of Nevis and Federation on a whole. “May his legacy live on and serve as an immortal example of stellar leadership and citizenship,” said Douglas, a former prime minister.

industrial action ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada - CMC – The Technical and Allied Workers Union (TAWU) yesterday urged support for striking workers at the state-owned National Water and Sewage Authority (NAWSA) and threatened to call out its members in other public and private sector entities on the island. TAWU has accused NAWSA of exploiting contract workers, claiming that they are underpaid despite several years of being on the job. “NAWASA wants to deny them their pensionable benefits. NAWASA gives them less annual leave than that given to permanent workers with the same amount of years and service,”

the union said in a flyer distributed to its members. The union said it was urging the “TAWU family” to observe today as “a day of solidarity”. NAWASA, which is the sole supplier of water here, said it has made an offer to the union which it has not accepted and that it is “extremely disappointed that the matter remains unresolved, despite having made a significant shift in its position in the spirit of compromise. “NAWASA has offered to make all contracted employees with more than two years of service permanent, with an option to ensure that such persons do not lose recognition for any

year of service for which gratuity was not paid,” it said. “Unfortunately, the union made no movements maintaining its original position; that all contracted employees (even those on contract for just a few months) must be made permanent, and that all appointments must be retroactive from the date of first contract, notwithstanding that gratuity was paid.’ Negotiations to regularise the contracted workers began in 2014.

Telecom company to “vigorously oppose” lawsuit filed by shareholder

KINGSTON, Jamaica - CMC – Cable & Wireless Jamaica Limited (CWJ) says it intends to vigorously oppose an application made by one of its shareholders seeking permission from the Supreme Court here to file a derivative action in a court in Florida. Eric Jason Abrahams is seeking permission of the local court to file the action in the United States in name of and on behalf of CWJ against its parent company, as well as some of CWJ’s past and present directors and who he terms shadow directors. A statement posted on the Jamaica Stock

Exchange website, said that Abrahams is taking the legal action for losses sustained by CWJ which he said were caused by them acting in breach of their fiduciary duties, for the sole benefit of the parent company. Through the lawsuit he is seeking to recover an undisclosed sum of money against assets owned by the parent company in Florida. According to the statement on the website, it is apparent that his complaints mainly concern the significant losses sustained by CWJ as a result of the lack of regulation for a protracted period of new entrants into the mobile market in the telecoms industry after liberalization. The parent company had extended financial support to CWJ by way of loans which enabled CWJ to weather that stormy period while CWJ fought to ensure that a level playing field in the mobile market was implemented, which then resulted in a reversal of the previous trend and improvement in CWJ’s revenues, the statement noted. It ended by stating that “CWJ therefore intends to vigorously oppose the application when it comes on for hearing on the 19th of April 2018”.

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Thursday January 04, 2018

Thursday January 04, 2018

WADA announces that 2018 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods now in force The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has announced that the 2018 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods (List), which was first published on 29 September 2017, entered into force on 1 January, 2018. The List, which is one of six International Standards that are mandatory for all Signatories of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), designates what substances and methods are prohibited both in- and out-ofcompetition; and, which substances are banned in particular sports. The List’s annual revision process is led by WADA, beginning with an initial meeting in January and concluding with the publication of the List by 1 October. This is an extensive nine-month consultation process that includes WADA’s List Expert Group gathering information; circulating a draft List amongst stakeholders; taking their submissions into

consideration and revising the draft; followed by, review by the Agency’s Health, Medical and Research (HMR) Committee. The HMR Committee then makes its recommendation to WADA’s Executive Committee that approves the List during its September meeting. For a substance or method to be added to the List, it must be determined that it meets two of the following three criteria: 1. it has the potential to enhance or enhances sport performance; 2. it represents an actual or potential health risk to the athletes; or, 3. it violates the spirit of sport. The 2018 Prohibited List, the Summary of Modifications, and the 2018 Monitoring Program are available for download on WADA’s website in multiple languages at: https://www.wada-ama.org/list. WADA’s mission is to lead a collaborative worldwide movement for doping-free sport.

Thursday January 04, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You might be able to hear the voice of reason wafting through the caverns of your mind today, but you’re not likely to slow down long enough to understand the message. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You like finishing whatever you start and today is no exception. However, it may be more difficult to make measurable progress now, even if your intentions are good. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Although you have a natural gift for gab, you’re at the top of your communication game today. A magical Grand Fire Trine points to the expressive Leo Moon in your 3rd House of Information, lubricating your words so they effortlessly fall into place as you speak. CANCER (June 21–July 22) It might feel as if people are judging you harshly before they even know your intentions. However, there is no reason to try to convince anyone that your plan is valuable today.

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Your relationships seem more important than ever now and nearly everything you do seems to have direct impact on those in your community. The lively Leo Moon wires your 11th House of Social Networking for sound, turning every minor utterance into a major symphony. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Grandstanding may not be part of your regular repertoire, but you could use a little love in the form of recognition now. You are riding on a wave of energy that is gaining momentum and you know the crescendo is building to a climax. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) An unusual confluence of cosmic energy encourages you to dream bigger than ever. You know in your gut that you can manifest nearly anything that you can visualize in your mind’s eye. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You want to lighten up today, but you might not be able to express your playful spirit so others can experience it directly. Paradoxically, people perceive you as more serious than you see yourself.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) People may end up misreading your energy today because they don’t look beyond the smile on your face. Your friendly demeanor can set others at such ease that your hard work goes unnoticed.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) It seems as if everyone wants to share in your current success. This might seem strange to you because you don’t have the same sense of accomplishment that others see in your work.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Flying beneath the radar affords you the luxury of working unseen today. Luckily, this invisibility plays in your favor now since you don’t want to stop and explain your actions; you simply want to get on with the tasks at hand.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You are tethered to the mundane world today, with little time or energy to escape into a world of fantasies. Your friends, associates and family all seem to be relying on you for one thing or another, and you don’t want to let anyone down.

Gregg Popovich moves into fifth on all-time coaching win list with Spurs topping Knicks NEW YORK (AP) — LaMarcus Aldridge scored 29 points, Kawhi Leonard had a season-high 25 and the San Antonio Spurs beat the New York Knicks 100-91 on Tuesday night to give Gregg Popovich sole possession of fifth place on the NBA’s coaching wins list. Manu Ginobili finished with 12 points – three of them coming on what appeared to be a pass that went into the basket without everyone noticing. Popovich has 1,176 victories, all with the Spurs. The five-time champion broke a tie with his friend George Karl. The Spurs beat the Knicks for the second time in six days and won for the fourth time in five games. They beat New York 119-107 on Dec. 28. Michael Beasley had 18 points for the Knicks, who were playing one of just four home games this month. They play 12 times on the road. Kristaps Porzingis shot just 5 for 19 and was one of three Knicks to finish with 13 points. The Knicks led 29-25 after one quarter but couldn’t break 20 points in either of the next two. The Spurs began to pull away midway through the third and ended the period with the game’s most bizarre basket. Ginobili appeared to be attempting a lob pass from beyond the 3-point line to Aldridge, but the pass went over his head. Michael Beasley grabbed it and began dribbling up the court as Ginobili and other Spurs waved frantically to the officials that the ball had actually gone into the basket. Referees eventually credited the basket to Ginobili – but only for two points. The basket was reviewed after the quarter ended and counted as a 3-pointer, giving San Antonio an 81-67 lead. Leonard played 30 minutes for the first time this season. It was just his seventh game after his return from a quadriceps injury. He shot 8 for 20 and grabbed eight rebounds.

Gregg Popovich

PAGE 30

Kaieteur News

Guyana U-19s take ‘Double’, U-19... From page 31 and faced unbeaten Trinidad & Tobago in the penultimate round and won by eight wickets. T&T were bowled out for 110 with Kristen Kallicharran hitting a classy 48 as Guyana spin quartet of Yadram (3-19) and Nedd, Looknauth and Keshram Seyhodan with two wickets each. The Guyanese then reached 111-2 with Persaud making 44 and Perez left unbeaten three away from his fifth fifty. Guyana then defeated the Windwards by six runs with Perez stroking a shot filled 77 and Persaud making 40. Ali-Mohamed, Perez, Persaud, Yadram and Nedd were all selected on the West Indies U-19 team for next month’s Youth World. Female U-19 T20: The Regional U-19 female T20 is held annually in Trinidad and Tobago in August and Guyana won their first ever title when they defeated host Country by seven wickets on the Duckworth-Lewis system in the final at the National Cricket Centre. Trinidad and Tobago were restricted to 94- 9 wickets off their allotted 20 overs with Skipper Reniece Boyce making 33. Guyana’s best two spinners then went to work as Plaffianna Millington (4-17) and Mandy Mangru (2-8) confused the Trini lasses. Guyana in reply after given a revised target of 86 runs to win from 18 overs due to rain, reached their target

off 17.2 overs, losing three wickets in the process. Mangru returned to produce a wonderful batting performance, scoring 34 and got support from Guyana’s skipper Shabika Gajnabi, who was unbeaten with 20. Guyana reached the finals having played unbeaten throughout the preliminary matches and ended at the top of the points table along with Trinidad and Tobago. Senior Women’s Regional Super 50: Guyana endured their worst ever performance in years in St. Vincent. The Guyanese ladies lost four of their five games with their win being by seven wickets against Leeward Islands. U-17 Regional 50 Overs: In a tournament of six teams, Guyana, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Leeward Islands and Windward Islands, Guyana finished in fifth position, while Trinidad and Tobago retained the title. Regional 50 over U-15: Barbados won the 2017 Regional 50-over U-15 tournament on home soil. Despite some good all-round performances from Essequibian Sheldon Charles Guyana ended in third position, while Leewards Islands finished second. Domestic Competitions: GCB/Dave West Indies Export Guyana NY 50 Overs U-15 Berbice dethroned Demerara on Sunday March 19 when they achieved a fivewicket win at Bourda in the

MVP Anthony Adams ended with 52 wickets & 260 runs to lead E’bo to their National Title.

Shemaine Campbelle final. Demerara were bundled out for 90 in 44.5 overs with Movindra Dindyal top scoring with 24 as Mahendra Prashad had 3-14 for Berbice who reached 92 for 5 wickets with Prashad finishing 38 not out. Andre Seepersaud took 2 for 9, while Daniel Mootoo and Daveanand Khemraj took one wicket each. WH Rambarran/GCB Senior Female Inter County 50 Overs This tournament exposed lack of development programmes for female cricket in Guyana with most of players have to resort to playing softball cricket since there are no hard ball tournaments played in Essequibo and Demerara and to a lesser extent in Berbice. Most of the Essequibians had never played cricket before this tournament which was held in February. In the first round, Berbice, led by 50 from Melanie Henry, 47 from Sheneta Grimmond and 48 from Shemia Gajnabi, made 268 before Erva Giddings (5-9) and Tremayne Smartt (3-6) dismantled Essequibo for 15 to win by 283 runs. Demerara defeated Essequibo by 10 wickets in the second round as Essequibo were dismissed for

20. Akaze Thompson (6-8) and Heema Singh (2-12) bowled well for Demerara, who reached 21 without loss. In the third and final round at Bourda, Berbice defeated Demerara by 75 runs to retain the title. Berbice made 214 for 6 off 50 overs with West Indies batter Shemaine Campbelle stroking a magnificent 101, while Katana Mentore made 54. Demerara were 139 for 9 when their 50 overs expired as Mandy Mangru made 24 and Thompson 18. Phaffiana Millington took 2-11. GCB/Igloo Ice-Cream U-17 Inter County 50 Overs Berbice dethroned Demerara to be crowned the 2017 champions on Saturday 29th April after the match was called off due to persistent rain which prevented any play in the third and final round match, which was scheduled for Bourda. Berbice won their first two (2) matches by defeating Essequibo by 115 runs and the Select Under-15 team by 9 wickets. GCB/Hand In Hand Insurance Company 50 Overs U-19 Inter County Demerara retained the under-19 Inter County 50 overs title with a comfortable six wicket win over the National Select Under-17 side at Providence on June 2. The Select U-17s fell for 130 from 48.4 overs with Kevlon Anderson making 38 and Sachin Singh 24. Bhaskar Yadram (4-32), Riche Looknauth (3-20) and Renaldo Ali Mohamed (2-23) bowled well for Demerara who reached 132-4 with Renaldo Ali Mohamed was unbeaten on 53. GCB/Hand In Hand Insurance Company U-19 Inter County 3-Day Demerara also retained this title, ending the competition with 25.5 points, followed by Berbice with 19.7 points, Select Under-17 were third with 11.1 points and Essequibo in the cellar with 8.6 points. Off the field controversy and Court cases was the order of day with the Berbice Cricket Board elections being deemed illegal by the Court who ordered that it is be held again this month. Demerara and Essequibo have not yet held elections. It is also felt by some that to get more players exposed there should be two teams from Essequibo since Berbice has three and Demerara has four. The year ended with CWI President Dave Cameron delivering the feature address at the annual GCB Awards Ceremony.

Thursday January 04, 2018

Lusignan Golf Club elects new executive The Lusignan Golf Club has extended sincere Best Wishes for the New Year 2018 to all Guyana even as they announced the election of a new executive to run the affairs of the club in December last year. On Saturday December 16, 2017, at their Annual General Meeting, the Lusignan Golf Club’s new Executive was voted in and those appointed to Executive positions are as follows: President - Aleem Hussain Vice President - Paton George Secretary - Rabindranath (Pdt Ravi) Persaud Treasurer - Aasrodeen Shaw Asst Secretary-Treasurer – Parmanand (Max) Persaud Captain - Chatterpaul (Chen) Deo Public Relations Officer – Anasha Ally Grounds Superintendent – Mike Gayadin. Contact can be made with the Club on Telephone # is 220-5660 or email address – lusignangolf@gmail.com.

Impressive Wozniacki continues march in Auckland Sachia Vickery to clash with Radwanska after storming to quarters (Reuters) - Caroline Wozniacki continued to build on her WTA Finals victory late last year with another impressive performance on her way to a 6-2 6-2 victory over Croatia’s Petra Martic to reach the quarter-finals of the Auckland Classic yesterday. American Sachia Vickery of Guyanese roots surprised many and is now in the quarterfinals of the tournament after negotiating her way through the earlier rounds. Vickery, who made it through the qualifying rounds for this the main draw of the tournament, defeated Paraguay’s Veronica Cepede Royg 6-2 6-4 to advance yesterday. Her quarterfinal assignment is a tough one where she faces former world number two Agnieszka Radwanska who continued her strong start to the campaign with a 6-3 7-5 win over American Taylor Townsend, the Pole holding her nerve in a tight second set that lasted more than an hour to advance. The fourth seed Radwanska remains on a collision course for a semifinal against Wozniacki, but only if she can get past the gritty Vickery. The Danish world number three, Wozniacki, ended 2017 with the biggest title of her career in Singapore and returned a day after thrashing Madison Brengle in her season opener to hit 21 winners against eight unforced errors in the 53minute win over Martic. “I‘m trying to stay aggressive,” Wozniacki said in a court-side interview. “I still made some unforced errors. It’s taking a few matches to play like 100 percent but I still felt I played

pretty well today.” Top seed Wozniacki started brightly with a break of serve to love on her way to an early 3-0 lead and added another break in the eighth game to wrap up the opening set in just 24 minutes on a glorious day in New Zealand’s largest city. Martic tried to mount a comeback early in the second when she broke for a 2-0 lead but Wozniacki won the final six games behind impressive serving numbers, including six aces, to book a last eight encounter with young American Sofia Kenin. “I’ve worked on everything I need to work on in the off-season,” Wozniacki added as she continues her preparations for the Australian Open starting in Melbourne on Jan. 15. “Now it’s just a matter of working out how to incorporate that into your match or into a situation where you maybe get nervous.” Kenin, a 19-year-old wild card, knocked out compatriot Varvara Lepchenko 6-4 7-6(6) earlier in the day and there were also victories for Taiwan’s Hsieh Su-wei and Barbora Strycova. Hsieh recorded a 6-4 6-3 triumph over Belgian qualifier Ysaline Bonaventure to set up a quarter-final clash against Strycova after the third seeded Czech edged out Sweden’s Johanna Larsson 6-1 6-7(3) 6-2. In the late matches, second seeded German Julia Goerges eased to a 6-4 6-0 victory over Slovakia’s Viktoria Kuzmova to book a last eight tie against Slovenia’s Polona Hercog, who was almost as ruthless in a 6-4 6-2 win over Kirsten Flipkens.

Thursday January 04, 2018

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

GUYANA’S CRICKET REVIEW (PART 2)

Guyana U-19s take ‘Double’, U-19 E’BO CAPTURE FIRST Girls win T20 Title NATIONAL TITLE

The five Guyanese picked for the U-19 World Cup with Coach Julian Moore at the GCB Awards Ceremony. By Sean Devers Guyana under-19 team won both the Regional 50 over and Three-Day tournaments in St Kitts while this Country’s U-19 Girls took their maiden Regional T20 tournament in the Twin Island Republic. On the local front the smiles on the faces of Essequibo’s cricket fans were a broad as the mighty Essequibo River as they celebrated their County’s first National Senior Title win when their team, previously regarded as the whipping boys of local cricket, played unbeaten to lift to GCB threeday Franchise league Trophy on October 15 at the Tuschen ground in East Bank Essequibo. At the play-off stage of

the GCB 50-over Franchise League Essequibo were in the lead as Coaches Ryan Hercules and Michael Franco have orchestrated a complete turn-around although their only Franchise player Shiv Chanderpaul did not played many matches but has played a big role in the dressing room. GCB three-day Franchise League An ecstatic Essequibo team, led by their skipper and tournament leading wickettaker Anthony Adams, joyously lifted the Trophy following seven rounds of brilliantly executed team cricket. Sterling performances from Captain Adams, their Franchise player Shiv Chanderpaul, leading run scorer Ricardo Adams, Kemo

Paul and wicket-keeper batsman Kemol Savory ensured Essequibo ended with 88 points, 9.2 more than runners-up, Upper Corentyne. Essequibo defeated defending champions Lower Corentyne in the opening round and maintained their lead with outright victories over West Berbice, Georgetown and Upper Corentyne, while drawing against Upper Demerara/ East Bank, East Coast Demerara and West Demerara. Left arm spinner Adams, collected the MVP tournament award after ending with 52 wickets and 260 runs including a century to climax a remarkable Tournament. His efforts gained him selection in

Jaguars squad for their final match for 2017 against the Leewards at Providence but did not make the final X1. GCB 50 over Franchise League: Essequibo are well set to take the ‘double’ since they have already qualified for the final. Unbeaten in the preliminary round and they sit top of the points table with 39 points. The play-offs and Final of the 50 Overs League are scheduled to be played this year and will see action between the second and third placed teams on the points table at the end of seven preliminary rounds. Georgetown earned second place by virtue of the better Net Run Rate over West Demerara. Both Georgetown

CWI’s Anand Sansasie (left) joins Essequibo’s title winning celebration in October.

and West Demerara aggregated an equal number of wins (two) and points (26) at the end of the final preliminary round, with Georgetown ending with a NRR of - 0.34 and West Demerara - 0.36. Leon Johnson will lead Georgetown which is expected to include Christopher Barnwell, Robin Bacchus, Paul Wintz and Travis Blyden. Lower Corentyne should have the services of Jonathan Foo, Royston Crandon, Kevlon Anderson, Nial Smith and Raun Johnson. The Franchise League replaced the Inter-County tournament and the players are paid $5,000 per day for each match and the tournament is supposed to be used to pick the National senior teams. A T20 League will be played this year. This is the third edition and it was hoped that sponsors would have come on board for each Franchise. The introduction of the Franchise tournament is a great concept by the GCB who should allow each area Association to select their own team since some good players are being omitted. The overall standard continues to be below par with most of the pitches being of a poor quality and the outfields rough. Tuschen, Imam Bacchus on the Essequibo Coast and Young Warriors in Canje Berbice have the best pitches, while the Imam Bacchus ground has the best outfield in Guyana including the Providence Stadium which has deteriorated in the last year. Regional U-19 Three-day: During the school holiday in July/August in St Kitts, the Guyana U-19s did what their senior counterparts failed to do and returned home with the coveted Double, winning both the three-day and 50 overs titles.

Mandy Mangru

The Renaldo AliMohamed led team was greeted at the airport by Sports Minister Dr. George Norton and Director of Sports Christopher Jones. Guyana had surrendered their three-day title to Leeward Islands in 2016 and won four of their five matches with their other game ending in a draw to Barbados. In a crucial final round game, Guyana beat eventual runners-up Jamaica by nine wickets. Set a victory target of 77 on the last day, Guyana reached 80-1 with Raymond Perez unbeaten on 44. Ramnarine Chatura ended with 270 runs from five innings and three half centuries, while Perez (241) and Kevin St Clair (234) reached 200 runs, while Kevlon Anderson made 185 runs. Left-arm spinner Ashmead Nedd (26), AliMohamed (18), Sinclair (13) and Richie Looknauth (11) were Guyana’s leading wicket takers. Coach Julian Moore, a former Guyana U-15 batsman, got the best from his charges who displayed wonderful team work and followed-up their three-day win by successfully defending their 50-overs which they have held since Brian Sattuar led Guyana to its first 50 overs title in 2014 on home soil. Regional 50-over U-19: The three-times defending Champions were led by Perez with 348 runs including four half-centuries and three not outs, to average 116 from six innings, while Persaud was again among the runs with 214. Sinclair and Anderson, the youngest player in the team, also got fifties. The 17-year-old Bhaskar Yadram, known more for his batting had the most wickets (17), while Need had 10 scalps. Guyana played unbeaten Continued on page 30

PAGE 32

Kaieteur News

CWI Digicel Regional 4-Day C/Ships

Jaguars in touching distance of a fourth successive title

Woakes out of fifth Ashes test, Crane to debut

Face-off with Scorpions in Jamaica today By Sean Devers Mathematically, second placed Barbados can still win the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Digicel Regional fourday Championships when the eighth round starts today but leaders Guyana Jaguars who have replaced Sherfane Rutherford and Anthony Adams with Raymon Reifer and Keon Joseph, will have to lose all of their remaining games for Barbados to rob them of a fourth consecutive title. Barbados, on 75.2 points, are 42.8 points behind Jaguars on 118 points who have been front runners throughout the tournament and from today they face-off with Jamaica Scorpions at Sabina Park and a draw with bonus points in this game will give Guyana the title with two rounds remaining. Jaguars face Barbados from next Thursday in Barbados before battling Red Force in their final game at Providence. The last times these teams met Jaguars roared to a 263-run win in the first round at Providence as Chanderpaul Hemraj and Anthony Bramble scored first innings fifties as Jaguars fell for 266 with Derval Green taking 4-63. Jamaica were bowled out for 99 as only Guyanese Assad Fudadin offered resistance with 39. Veerasammy Permaul had 629 for Jaguars who made 3158 in their second innings. Kemo Paul scored 107 and Skipper Leon Johnson got 50. Spinner Dennis Bulli captured 5-104. Jamaica reached 219 despite Fabian Allen’s 60 and 40 from Fudadin as Permaul bagged 4-55 for another 10wicket match haul. Today the Guyanese Franchise will bank on a solid

foundation from Tagenarine Chanderpaul who needs to play with a bit more positivity and Hemraj, who needs to temper his aggression and exhibit better shot selection. Johnson, one of five batsmen with centuries in the Guyana team, will strive for consistency after not being among the runs in the last two games last year, while Vishaul Singh with two hundreds, will hope to continue his good form as he presses for a Test recall. Shiv Chanderpaul scored a century in St Kitts and once again could be the glue that holds the innings together. Jaguars will depend on new Tests player Bajan Raymond Reifer back from New Zealand, Bramble who has the most dismissals with the gloves and third most runs with 481 and will be keen to join Devon Smith (873) and Denish Ramdin (564) in the 500 runs club along with Paul who struggled with the bat since his hundred and Gudakesh Motie who made an unbeaten 77 as night watchman and 47 in his last game. Joseph, back from injury could get the six wickets needed for 100 First-Class wickets and will spearhead the pace attack that will include Romario Shepherd and Paul. Permaul and Motie will provide the spin, while Devendra Bishoo was not selected as he is still recovering from an injury. The Guyana squad: Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Leon Johnson –(Captain), Vishaul Singh –(Vice Captain), Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Keemo Paul, Anthony Bramble, Raymon Reifer, Veerasammy Permaul, GudakeshMotie, Romario Shepherd, Akshaya Persaud and Keon Joseph.

Guyana confident of hosting Women’s T20... From page 35 region’s major cricketing nations, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, were set to miss out as venues after failing to submit bids. Eight countries – South Africa, England, Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and title-holders West Indies – have already qualified for the showpiece. Bangladesh, Ireland, Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Uganda and two Asia qualifiers will vie for the two remaining spots courtesy of a qualifier in the Netherlands next June.

Thursday January 04, 2018

Chris Woakes claimed the wicket of Cameron Bancroft, Australia v England, 4th Test, Melbourne, December 26, 2017 ©Getty Images SYDNEY (Reuters) England leg spinner Mason Crane will make his debut in the fifth and final Ashes test against Australia this week

after all-rounder Chris Woakes was ruled out of the match by injury, captain Joe Root said yesterday. Woakes missed a

significant part of England’s home season after straining his side in the opening match of last year’s Champions Trophy and pulled up sore after the fourth test in Melbourne last week. The 27-year-old’s enforced absence will be the only change to Root’s side for the test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), which starts on Thursday. “He’s obviously an integral significant member of both the white ball and test team and it’s important he’s not out for a long time like he was last summer,” Root told reporters. “He’s going to miss this week and it’s a great opportunity for Mason to come in and make his debut.” Woakes’s injury has probably resulted in a reprieve for out-of-form all-rounder Moeen Ali, who had been expected to make way for 20year-old Crane. England have already handed back the Ashes after losing the first three tests of the series but Root has made it clear the tourists would not be handing out test caps in

Sydney willy nilly, as they did at the end of the 2013-14 whitewash. Crane, who played at the SCG for New South Wales last year during a highly successful stint with the Gordon club, will become the youngest England spinner to make his test debut for 90 years. “He’s been outstanding. For a young man to apply himself and absorb himself in the environment as he has, is exactly what you want,” Root said. “You can see a big progression in his game since he’s been involved in this tour. He’s right up for international cricket and he’s not someone who’s going to back down. “On this surface, he’s going to be a really good option. It looks like it’s going to give a bit of turn throughout.” Team: Alastair Cook, Mark Stoneman, James Vince, Joe Root (captain), Dawid Malan, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Tom Curran, Stuart Broad, Mason Crane and James Anderson.

Rampant Shiffrin wins her third slalom ZAGREB (Reuters) - Overall World Cup leader Mikaela Shiffrin gave herself another confidence boost ahead of the 2018 Winter Olympics after blowing away the field to win a third successive women’s slalom at Zagreb’s Mt Sljeme yesterday. The 22-year old U.S skier from Vail, Colorado, finished the two legs in one minute 53.07 seconds, a staggering 1.59 seconds ahead of Swiss runner-up Wendy Holdener, with Sweden’s Frida Hansdotter climbing from fifth to third after a fine second run. Shiffrin, who won her maiden overall World Cup title last season, tops the standings with 1081 points and is also in the driving seat in the slalom on 580 points with the Feb 9-25 Games in South Korea’s Pyeongchang beckoning. She set the pace after starting fourth out of the blocks in

the opening leg and carved out an advantage of 1.41 seconds over Holdener and 1.61 ahead of Slovakia’s Petra Vlhova. Heavy snowfall on a soft course in the second leg, when the top 30 skiers start in reverse order, did not deter the American as she produced another flawless run to cross the finish line as the event’s emphatic winner. Shiffrin is widely expected to retain the Olympic slalom title she won at the 2014 Games in Sochi, Russia, as well as to have a shot at gold medals in the giant slalom and Super G. Earlier on Wednesday, former American great Bode Miller heaped praise on his compatriot in an interview with Reuters. “I think she’s maybe the best ski racer I’ve ever seen, male or female,” said the 40-year-old. “She’s so balanced, dynamic, intense and focused, so for me, I think she’s got a chance in any event she skis in.”

Year of consolidation and new heights... From page 34 categories: Demitri Chan Pan/South American, Romario Gonsalves - Pan/ South American, Carlos Petterson – NAPF, John Edwards – NAPF, Britny Mack – Pan American & South American and Andrea Smith – Caribbean. Additionally, there were an increased number of athletes performing in the Classic (Raw) Division; an increased number of junior participants and a significant increase in the number of female participants. Administrative advancement Smith noted that in this area, the federation has been improving constantly to the extent that there is now an active digitised athlete’s database for the first time. “We have standardised automated/on-line

registration for all our local competitions, we have also optimised the process of online payment for same. We have established an active online repository/library of information specific to powerlifting, located on our official facebook page, while we have also increased our proficiency in coordinating with our IPF counterpart through improved communications and prompt information exchange/ feedback on unfolding administrative matters as well as prompt decisive action on mandatory operations e.g. renewal of subscription fees; submission of nominations and such like.” Touching on the issue of expansion of the sport beyond the confines of the city, Smith shared: “There has been great success in expanding the sport beyond

the confines of the city, though not in the traditional way of hosting an ‘out-oftown’ competition. We opted not to go the way of ‘out of town’ competitions due to sporadic technical support received during the course of the year in hosting these competitions as well as limited voluntary assistance by athletes themselves (both of which the executive recognizes are critical components to the success of any competition). Instead however, the federation embarked on ‘livestreaming’ of competitions through our coordination with Sans Sports. Viewership of the last two competitions has been recorded as far as North America, Canada & England. Live streaming of these competitions was initiated by and is actively coordinated by Martin

Webster. As a consequence, viewership of our official facebook page has also increased.” Female participation remains steady and continues to grow incrementally, Smith stated pointing out that approximately 93% of the federation’s female athletes compete in Classic (RAW). “We have limited equipped female participants and even fewer compete in both divisions. Overall, the federation remains enthused by their courage and displayed dynamism on and off the platform.” Smith, on behalf of President Caesar, the executive and athletes extends best wishes to all its sponsors/partners and looks forward to an even better year in terms of overall development of the sport.

Thursday January 04, 2018

Olympic gold medalist skier Lindsey Vonn

Alpine skiing: Speed queen Vonn ready for battle in Pyeongchang LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Lindsey Vonn has vowed not to take the safe option at what are likely to be her last Winter Olympics next month despite being dogged by questions about her health after recent crashes. The 33-year-old American is the most s u c c e s s f u l Wo r l d C u p women’s skier of all time with 78 victories while clinching four overall titles, but has only two Olympic medals — a gold in downhill and bronze in s u p e r- G, b o t h w o n i n Vancouver in 2010. In recent competitions, however, Vonn has seen a mix of crashes and wins, making her chances in Pyeongchang difficult to handicap. In early December she crashed twice at Canada’s Lake Louise, where she has a long history of success, before racing to a super-G

World Cup win at Val d‘Isere in France two weeks later. “As long as I‘m healthy and I‘m confident, then I’ll be in a great position when I get to Pyeongchang,” she told the Vail Daily in November. “Everyone asks me if I‘m afraid, after so many crashes do I take my foot off the gas pedal? And while I am smarter and I try to manage my risk better than I have in the past, it’s still ski racing. “You can try to manage risk as much as you want, but at the end of the day, it’s a dangerous sport.” Managing risk has been on her mind for the past four years after she missed the 2014 Sochi Olympics due to a right knee injury. It was arguably the most serious of a career that had been relatively injury free during her first decade as a professional as she became a household name for her

exploits on the slopes and off them, courtesy of a highprofile relationship with golfer Tiger Woods. Since the February 2013 crash that contributed to her missing the Sochi Games she has endured a series of setbacks that include multiple broken bones, surgeries and grueling rehabilitations. “I‘m 33, I’ve been injured quite a few times, but my passion for the sport has never changed,” she said. “Since I started skiing and started racing when I was eight years old, I’ve loved what I do, and I don’t want to stop doing it. “As long as I‘m enjoying it and I don’t have to use too much duct tape to hold my body together, I‘m good. “I‘m focused on winning the World Cups, but just getting to February healthy is the only thing I should be really focused on.”

Mertens, Goffin find form as Belgium beat Australia in Hopman Cup (Reuters) - Elise Mertens fended off Daria Gavrilova while David Goffin blitzed his way past Thanasi Kokkinakis as Belgium secured a 3-0 victory over Australia in the Hopman Cup yesterday. Mertens fought back from a set down to outlast Gavrilova 2-6 6-4 6-2 in a twohour battle at the Perth Arena to help Belgium keep their hopes of reaching Saturday’s final alive. Gavrilova broke Mertens early in the match and clinched the opening set with ease. She continued to attack her rival in the

PAGE 33

Kaieteur News

second set but world number 36 Mertens saved a break point and changed her gameplan to counter the Australian. “I started to be more aggressive, stepped up to the baseline and came to the net more,” Mertens said. “I made her play more defensive, so I‘m happy with my game in the end. “I’ve worked a lot on my offence. Tennis at the top is so aggressive, so direct, that’s the style I want to play.” Mertens reeled off three games in a row to level the contest at one set all and used the momentum to prevail in the decider. Goffin, who beat world number four Alexander Zverev in his opening match, struck 27 winners in his 6-4 6-2 victory over Kokkinakis to clinch the tie. Belgium then won the mixed doubles dead rubber. “I‘m feeling so well on the court since I arrived here in Australia,” Goffin said. “I‘m playing really well, I’ve won two good matches with a high level, so I‘m very happy how I’ve started the year.” Belgium can reach the final if they beat Canada in their next match and Australia fail to better their result against Germany. Earlier, Angelique Kerber beat Eugenie Bouchard 6-1 6-3 while Alexander Zverev defeated Vasek Pospisil 6-4 6-2 as Germany sealed a comfortable 3-0 victory over Canada.

Hapless Windies end tour with crushing loss MOUNT MAUNGANUI, New Zealand, CMC – Woeful West Indies ended their illfated tour of New Zealand in the same wretched manner in which it started, plummeting to a heavy 119-run defeat in the final Twenty20 International here yesterday. Colin Munro’s record-breaking third career T20I hundred of 104 was the catalyst behind the hosts’ imperious 243 for five off their 20 overs – their highest-ever total in the shortest format. Fellow opener Martin Guptill stroked 63 and Tom Bruce, 23, ensuring New Zealand maintained their momentum to gather the seventh-highest total in T20s. In reply, West Indies produced yet another dismal batting performance, collapsing to a depressing 124 all out in the 17th over. Only Andre Fletcher with a polished 46 from 32 balls showed any sense of purpose, and was one of only three frontline batsmen to reach double figures and the only one to pass 20. The Caribbean side’s woes were compounded by the unavailabilty of Shai Hope who injured his shoulder while fielding and was unable to bat. Not for the first time this tour, the Windies were tormented by seamer Tim Southee (3-21) and new-ball partner Trent Boult (2-29) while leg-spinner Ish Sodhi claimed two for 25, as the Black Caps claimed their biggest-ever win in T20s and the third largest overall. For West Indies, the defeat was their seventh on tour in internationals, after losing both Tests, all three one-dayers and two T20s. The second T20I was washed out after just nine overs on New Year’s Day. The reigning T20 World champions have also now lost six of their last 12 matches in the shortest format. Opting to bat first at Bay Oval, New Zealand were propelled by a 136-run opening stand between Munro and Guptill – the country’s third-highest stand for any wicket in T20s. The left-handed Munro was utterly dominant en route to his third score of fifty or more in the series, facing 53 balls and striking three fours and 10 sixes. No Windies bowler was spared from the 30-year-old’s brutal all-out assault, as he raced to his half-century off 26 balls before reaching three figures off 47 deliveries to mark the fastest-ever hundred for New Zealand in T20s and joint sixth-fastest of all all time.

He also became the first batsman to score three hundreds in T20Is. Guptill, meanwhile, was more than just a spectator, lashing five fours and a pair of sixes in a 38-ball knock – his 11th half-century in this format. With the Windies bowlers loose, the pair cashed in, plundering 52 off the first five and 118 at the half-way point of the innings. Debutant medium pacer Rayad Emrit’s first two deliveries in T20 cricket were greeted with a couple of leg-side sixes by Munro, in an over which leaked 16 runs and saw the South Africa-born dynamo to his half-century. Guptill eventually edged a wide one from Emrit to fall to a catch at the wicket in the 12th over but Munro and Bruce kept the pressure on the Windies in a 55-run, second wicket parnership. Even when the hosts lost four wickets for 35 runs in 19 deliveries, the runs kept flowing with 60 runs gushing from the last five overs. The Windies then had a disastrous start to their run chase when Chadwick Walton drove the first ball of the innings from Southee into Munro’s lap at cover. Four balls later, superstar Chris Gayle was surprised by a short ball and gloved a simple catch behind to depart without scoring, leaving the Windies tottering on one run for two wickets. Fletcher and Rovman Powell (16) then staged the best partnership of the innings, putting on 41 for the third wicket. The right-handed Fletcher struck four fours and three sixes – two of which were sweetly-timed back-to-back inside out blows over extra cover in the sixth over by left-arm spinner Anaru Kitchen which went for 20 runs. Powell holed out to cover off Kitchen in the fourth over and Shimron Hetmyer was tragically run out for seven in the fifth over, leaving West Indies on 49 for four. Fletcher posted 31 off 20 balls for the fifth wicket with captain Carlos Brathwaite (15) to temporarily stem the flow of wickets but once the Grenadian missed a heave at a straight one from Sodhi and was bowled off-stump, the last four wickets tumbled for 44 runs. Scores: NEW ZEALAND 243 for five (Colin Munro 104, Martin Guptill 63, Tom Bruce 23; Carlos Brathwaite 2-50). WEST INDIES 124 off 16.3 overs (Andre Fletcher 46; Tim Southee 3-21, Ish Sodhi 225, Trent Boult 2-29).

Andre Fletcher looked to offset the early blows and was aggressive in his 46 ©Getty Images

PAGE 34

Year of consolidation and new heights for Powerlifting

RAW Nationals Overall Winners! Lisa Oudit and Vijai Rahim display their trophies. By Franklin Wilson The year 2017 has been one of consolidation for the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) with the body executing all four of its local competitions, attending and excelling at the Medals Table Name Tiniesha Toney Britny Mack Nadina Taharally Andrea Smith Romario Gonsalves Demitri Chan Arif Imamadeen Carlos Petterson Erwyn Smith Winston Stoby John Edwards Naranjan Singh

Thursday January 04, 2018

Kaieteur News

overseas level whilst outdoing itself with the projected outreach programmes it had set. The year also saw the body, under the presidency of former national athlete Ed Caesar, complete numerous fundraising and novelty Category 57kg Sub Junior 47kg Sub Junior 72kg Master 1/Open 72kg Open 59kg Junior 74kg Junior/Open 66kg Junior/Open 93kg Junior/Open 93kg Open 74kg Master 2/Open 120kg Master 1/Open 83kg Master 4, Open

events as the body sought to fulfill its mandate on and off the platform. Undoubtedly, the high point of the year has to be the historic performance of Team Guyana (12 athletes 4 officials) at the 16th Annual NAPF/FESUPO PanAmerican Powerlifting Championships; 15th Annual NAPF North American Regional Powerlifting Championships and 32nd Annual FESUPO South American Powerlifting Championships in Orlando, Florida, USA in early July where a record total of 33 medals (19 gold 9 silver 5 bronze) were captured while a number of new records were set. Secretary of the federation, Andrea Smith reflected on a year that showcased the rich talent the sport has to offer through athletes that are world class, both male and female. “The year 2017 has been a productive year for the federation; our calendar included a combination of local and international competitions, fundraising and novelty activities, and social outreach activities. We executed more outreach activities than we had initially projected. Additional outreach exercises were executed with the Guyana Prison Service, the University of Guyana and youth

Pan American 1 Silver 1 Gold 1 Gold 1 Gold 1 Gold 1 Silver 1 Gold 1 Silver 1 Bronze 1 Gold 1 Bronze 1 Silver 1 Bronze 1 Silver 3 Gold 1 Silver 1 Silver 1 Gold 1 Silver 1 Bronze

South American 1 Gold 1 Gold 1 Gold

3 Gold 3 Gold 1 Gold 1 Silver

Carlos Petterson deadlifts 330kg in Orlando USA, new National Junior and Open records.

representatives from Lethem, PYARG (President’s Youth Award Programme).” The successful local competitions that were held were the Novice, Intermediate, Raw Nationals and Senior Nationals and were all deemed, successful. “The successful elements at these competitions were a resuscitated partnership with Banks DIH Limited, recognition award presented to another long time partner Fitness Express, coordinating with the Georgetown Princess Ramada Hotel & Princess Casino to host our senior championships as well as hosting a Referee’s Clinic prior to our marquee event. Our federation was also able to collaborate with our sister federation in Trinidad and Tobago to have Mr. Gabre Mc Tair, IPF Category 2 Referee be the facilitator of our Referee’s Clinic and be the Head Judge at seniors.” Expanding on the body’s Social Outreach, Smith informed that a special event was held in recognition of International Women’s Day under the Theme, ‘Women in Sport’. She said that for the first time, the

Future Stars! From right, Romario Gonsalves, Teneisha Toney, Brintey Mack and Demetri Chan. Still golden at age 72, Nairiansingh Singh savours the moment.

Federation executed such an initiative in recognition of the efforts of its past and present Female athletes and it was well received. “We hosted a breakfast for our female athletes, facilitated an Online Opinion Poll and coordinated an expose in the local print media, all aimed at honoring and showcasing our female athletes.” The Orlando history making experience Apart from raking in a record 33 medals, Guyana also captured three Team Championships Awards: First Place Team Equipped Men’s Open Title - Pan and South America Division; First Place Team Equipped Women’s Open Title - Pan and South American Division; Third Place Equipped Men’s Open Title - NAPF, Pan American and South American Division. Team Guyana also achieved a number of new standards: 1. Guyana’s first Masters 1 Female competitor, Ms. Nadina Taharaly 2. The establishment of new NAPF, Pan America, South American and Caribbean Records, by the following athletes in their individual Continued on page 32