Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

A GOOD OVERTURE IN 2018 If we were to be guided by the sentiments expressed by President David Granger and Opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo at their meeting on Wednesday to discuss the President’s nominees for the positions of Chancellor and Chief Justice, it is possible to believe that 2018 will turn out to be a good year for Guyana. The President and the Opposition leader greeted each other with smiles. It was a warm and cordial meeting. The President acquiesced to Mr. Jagdeo’s request for a month to conduct due diligence on the nominees and they agreed to meet again on February 7 when Mr. Jagdeo will inform him of his decision. While the President is subject to the Constitution, he still holds substantial powers which have the potential to affect our lives. He appoints the cabinet in which its members can collectively and individually have a decisive impact on the government’s legislative agenda in the passing of laws. Additionally, the President has a direct role appointing people to certain watchdog bodies such as the Integrity Commission. These watchdog bodies could have an impact on the public’s ability to have faith in the systems of governance. Based on the Constitution, the President is obligated to consult with the opposition leader on a number of issues including the appointments of a Chancellor and the Chief Justice of the Judiciary. Therefore, the issuing of an invitation to the opposition leader to discuss his judicial appointments and to accept the request of the opposition leader is a good overture. This is particularly so given the ramifications of the unilateral appointment by the President of the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) a few months ago. Both the Government and the Opposition have much to lose if there is no consensus on the judicial nominees, especially if the eventual post-holders turn out to perform poorly. The issuing of an invitation is all the more timely given the recent legislative wrangling, misconduct and raucous in Parliament which led to police intervention and the suspension of a member of the opposition. Both sides of the House need to demonstrate their capacity to work in a non-partisan way for the sake of the nation in the New Year. In recent times, the government and the opposition have not been able to reach consensus on senior public appointments and on other issues. More often than not, the ruling party has had one nominee and the opposition another, as was the case with the appointment of the GECOM Chairman. That needs to change. The issuing of an invitation by the President to the opposition leader may not itself translate into an agreement, but it is important for both sides to air their views and listen to one another. More of this is needed in 2018 if we are to make progress towards uniting the country. Let’s face it, Guyana is a divided nation and many of us are unaware of the problems caused by such division and the lack of solutions to most of them. The truth is Guyana continues to face major challenges due to the deep-rooted division and partisan politics that have plagued the country since independence. The people are comforted by the good overture of the President to meet with the leader of the opposition. They believe that the quest for unity and our journey to end the era of racial and sectarian voting can be overcome in 2018. Whatever the outcome, only good can come from the latest gesture by the President and the leader of the opposition. It sets a precedent for our democracy in terms of decision-making and power-sharing in 2018. It is good news.

Are we all asleep at the wheel? DEAR EDITOR, Writing in 1968, Gordon K. Lewis, historian and political scientist, described Guyana as “a fascinating complex of strident paradoxes”. The events of the last few months serve as an apt illustration of this diagnosis. First there was the signature bonus, held in secret, for the purpose of underwriting a legal defence in our border dispute with Venezuela. Then the festive season began with the largest retrenchment of workers in living memory, with no coherent plan for their immediate welfare or future employment. Finally, came the public release of the revised agreement with ExxonMobil, a revision which shows all the foresight of a blind date (though the timely announcement of another promising new prospect offshore may help to lubricate its reception). For some, these events merit little more than a collective shrug. For others, they raise multiple alarm bells. It is perhaps no coincidence that, writing a generation ago, Lewis also discerned “the disintegration of national consensus” to the point where “the constituent elements of the national debate...are seen by the opposing sides in completely different ways.” One wonders what Lewis

would have made of the proposed ‘miniaturisation’ of the sugar industry and Guyana’s faltering first steps towards a petroleum-based economy. His book, The Growth of the Modern West Indies, depicts a scenario where “the mammoth Bookers organisation penetrates into almost every nook and cranny of the Guyanese economy and the Guyanese communal psychology alike.” Lewis gives multiple examples of this syndrome and its symptoms. A few will suffice: 1) A weak state, he notes, is no match for a robust multinational: “in the absence of government planning, lines of development were left to the sugar interest.” 2) At its zenith, Bookers claimed to control, directly or indirectly, the lives of some 80% of the population. It was, Lewis writes, “a veritable state within a state..[..]..an almost separate sovereign kingdom, undertaking and controlling an extensive set of essentially public services which the political state, for want of organisational skills and capital revenue, was unable itself to provide for its citizens.” If some now find the shackles of the sugar industry burdensome, they will at least concede that, after several centuries of cultivating sugar, we have sufficient

skills, the infrastructure and the labour in place to support the industry. What do we know of oil? This is an industry where we have no experience and precious little homegrown expertise: our record to date in deliberations with major players like ExxonMobil displays these deficits. We began by awarding them 600 blocks instead of 60 (in contravention of our own laws). The 2016 revision has failed to address this and, as several analysts have shown, is deficient in many other respects. There has been some talk of ExxonMobil going out on a limb for Guyana and of the need for us to show some sort of gratitude for this. ExxonMobil is a business with a current market capitalisation of US$367 billion. It has over 73,000 employees and about 2.5 million individual shareholders. As its former head Rex Tillerson explained about a decade ago: “We spend (US) $1 billion a day just running our business.” The writer Steve Coll shows how, across time and space, ExxonMobil has carved out a succession of ‘private empires’ by being better informed, better resourced and more organised than the governments it deals with, both in America and abroad. What,

exactly, is going to make Guyana the exception to this pattern? It will take a lot more than bluster and rhetoric. We are willing to mothball substantial chunks of an existing industry that employs a large portion of our rural workforce with only vague plans afoot for alternatives. We have set aside US$18 million to defend our borders in an international court. Yet we entered crucial negotiations with a petroleum giant, with billions of dollars of revenue at stake, in an almost casual manner. We lacked preparation and expertise, missed vital opportunities to correct earlier errors and accepted terms and conditions that may constrain us for decades. Was there a lawyer present in the negotiating team? Was there anyone with expertise in the petroleum industry, geology, economics, accounting? Whose data were we relying on for our assessments? Were any analyses and forecasts produced to guide the negotiators? Guyana clearly has a tendency to cultivate a certain sort of relationship with large multinationals. Does anyone note the parallels between Bookers and Exxon? Does anyone see how this story is likely to unfold? Are we all asleep at the wheel? Isabelle de Caires

The Bitter Struggle for Sweet Sugar DEAR EDITOR, Any assessment that views the sugar industry through the lens of dollar and cents or profit and loss, would be deeply flawed and highly myopic. Sugar in Guyana is not merely an economic undertaking or venture. It is an institution. It does not merely provide employment, earn foreign exchange or contribute to GDP. It sustains communities comprising tens of thousands of humans and represents a way of life. The Guyanese economy is neither large nor diversified enough to sustain the loss of sugar. The socio-economic consequences that will flow therefrom will reverberate across every divide and pull every sector with it in its cascading downward avalanche. Recently, in Nairobi, Kenya, President David Granger informed the world that his government is committed to people and not profits. The President fails to see the contradiction in closing down an industry, which directly and indirectly will affect every citizen of his country on the basis, that it is not yielding the desired profits. The PPP, from the incep-

tion, requested of the government to do an impact assessment of the intended closure of the industry. We are firmly committed to the view that the cost of closure far outweighs the cost of keeping the industry operational. Indeed, the government did no impact assessment whatsoever or feasibility study of any kind before deciding to close the industry. Its own Commission of Inquiry did not recommend closure. As a result the government is unable to proffer an intelligent reason for the closure of the industry. The consequence is that they have exposed themselves to the widespread view that the decision to close the industry is driven by political and ethnic considerations. It is obvious that one newspaper piece can never accurately encompass the true impact of the closure of this industry. However, at a glance, thousands of families are immediately placed on the bread line without any hope, whatsoever, of alternative employment in the foreseeable future. Severance benefits, if paid at all, will not be paid in the near future. These families

have loan payments to make to the commercial banks for their homes. They have debts to pay for furnishings and vehicles acquired by hire purchase. Food has to be placed on the table and in lunch kits for children to attend schools. Electricity and other expenses have to be met. Clothes and healthcare have to be paid for. And the list goes on. SUICIDES COMMENCED The indirect consequences would be equally devastating. The impact of the closure of Wales Estate can currently be assessed. The lower West Bank of Demerara communities are currently gripped in a socioeconomic paralysis. Over 75% of the economy of Region Six, revolves around the sugar industry. The remaining 25% would find it impossible to survive in isolation. The private sector recognizes this reality; hence their call on the government to reverse the decision to close the industry. The suicides have already commenced. It will only intensify. Crime will continue to skyrocket. Other social dilemmas will soon emerge and multiply.

The government seems oblivious to the fact that the drainage and irrigation system currently administered by GuySuCo is fundamental to keeping floodwaters off the low coastland. When these estates are closed this vital interlink of drainage canals will collapse. Massive flooding will be the inevitable consequences. The residents and farmers of canals no. 1 and 2 are currently reeling from floodwaters inundating those communities because of the blocked canals that formed part of Wales Estate. This catastrophe will replicate itself in all those areas where estates are being closed. The destruction will be catastrophic. The cost to central government will be phenomenal. Not a cent has been budgeted for the year 2018 to address this impending disaster. Many of these estates provide a system of healthcare for its workers, their families, and others in the locality in which they are situated. This healthcare system will close down. The impact may become a public health tragedy. The community centres and other (Continued on page 6)

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Do other communities suffer from the same dilemma as Enmore? DEAR EDITOR, This contribution is submitted because of my examination of the Enmore district, which includes Foulis, and which I feel is a microcosm of the wider Guyana. I expect rebuttals and criticisms and that should be so, because leadership in Guyana, starting at the community level, should be of concern to every Guyanese, here and in the diaspora, and should come under scrutiny - for its paucity or its potential. My brief definition of a leader is someone who represents the welfare of persons selflessly and who can motivate a following towards a better collective position on whatever issue or field of endeavour. Whether in sports, culture, religion, community development, politics - even business - I have a difficulty identifying five active leaders in Enmore in any one of the above endeavours from a population of about eighteen thousand. Even if I do, three of the five will be mature individuals, i.e. above 35. The geographic spread mentioned above is peopled mainly by Indians, in fact about 90%. Academics, Professionals, Millionaires, Technicians, Contractors, Entrepreneurs… Yes, Enmore has all of those. But leaders - Not Many! It seems as if the education system (particularly at the level of CXC/CSEC), which

has robotised our children, has also robbed them of the vital interaction provided by sports and other extra-curricular activities. It seems as if teachers, who literally promote the necessity for extra lessons, fail to support the need to produce rounded persons. Certainly, aiming for 20 subjects at CXC hardly leaves room for much sleep, let aside sports or other forms of physical involvement. I am aware that many parents cater to every whim and fancy of their children, to the extent of even bringing them up in the proverbial bubble, while living in a state of denial that many of those children are even using hard drugs. I am aware of parents and youths who frown upon any developmental/leadership programme/seminar made available by (any) Government or other Agencies. I am aware of Church/ Mandir/Masjid heads, who are unable or reluctant to engage families to attend the House of God. I am aware of many teachers and politicos who just disregard their protégés once the immediate goal has been achieved. In one way or another, there seem to be a silent contrivance to under-develop our young people. We abandon them, and they abandon themselves, at the most crucial time of their lives. There definitely is a disconnect between the individual and the community, as

if the individual does not have a stake in the community, as if the individual is alien to his community. The net effect is that our youths are disoriented and lost when they come face to face with the reality of life outside of the parent-created bubble, when they come face-to-face with adversity. The wider society is as much a school as the home or the formal school. The community of Enmore cries for effective parenting, since the first leader of the child is the parent. The community of Enmore bleeds for the involvement of young people in self development and community development. The community of Enmore screams out for effective leadership, even as individualism is sucking out the life-blood of the community. Why can’t our individual aspirations blend with the acceptance that there is the burning necessity for our community to simultaneously blood leaders? Sadly, the challenge to do so seems too much for the people of Enmore; the fortitude is lacking. And the leadership vacuum will deepen and widen. In the words of Martin Carter: All are involved; all will be consumed! And poor parenting will be found guilty! Do other communities suffer from the same dilemma? Taajnauth Jadunauth

This call was an important step taken by the residents of Orealla DEAR EDITOR, On March 30th 2017, an article appeared in the Kaieteur News,” Orealla residents call for audit of village books.” This call was an important step taken by the residents of Orealla village, when they claimed that village funds and other resources were being misused by the village council. The former PPP administration rarely took any disciplinary action against corrupt village officials, in their 23 years of rule, but paid incentives to those who were in charge in some form or the other, a s l o n g a s t h e i r votes were kept intact for the PPP at elections time - thus reinforcing the scope for more corrupt practices by newly-elected village councils. It would be an excellent move for our fourth Vice President and Minister of

Indigenous People’s Affairs, Hon. Sydney Allicock, to ensure that his Ministry’s commitment towards “good governance” are upkept to a standard under his watch, with the APNU/AFC government; to ensure all 515 hinterland villages and communities in our country have begun the process of putting their books in order for preparation in the upcoming (March 2018) village council elections of our hinterland regions, so as to facilitate a smooth handing over of all village assets, as the election results may determine. Should any of the Toshaos fail to adhere to such instructions, full disciplinary measures must follow, or the police should be called in for any misappropriation of funds. The opposition PPP will continue to call these corrective mea-

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sures taken by this present administration witch-hunting, and cause some political chaos among us here in the hinterland regions; while accountability must be looked at very seriously, at all levels, including our village councils. Misuse of funds is a known factor that contributes to our poverty level. The government of the day must get serious and put an end to this. It would also be a wise idea for us to vote for a g o o d To s h a o , w h o h a s multiple lenses and can lead us in this advanced age of technology in the 21st century. Mark Anthony Rodrigues

Our hopes are being lifted, but we must be prepared for the fall DEAR EDITOR With the public announcement in the local media that ExxonMobil is gearing up for oil production from Guyana’s first oil well by mid2020, and that the company has announced that it has awarded contracts to United States-based, SBM Offshore for a floating production storage and offloading vessel, we trust the Guyana economy and all Guyanese would directly benefit from this. Many of us locals had hoped and prayed that Guyana would become one of the first Third World nations that would allow its oil

wealth to trickle down to the masses. However, history has shown us that trickle-down is a rarity. Oil wealth is notorious for corrupting its host nation. We wonder how our national administrators will conduct themselves if and when the oil begins to flow. This is based on the traits shown by some greedy persons over the past years. And we do hope also that those in authority will revise and update our antiquated laws regarding foreign multinational corporations. With the present laws, we could expose ourselves to be ripped

off by anyone, especially large multinational corporations. This is in light of our history of giving things away to foreigners. Many locals may be very troubled by the difference in power and resources between ExxonMobil and Guyana as this project moves forward, with Guyana at a distinct disadvantage. Our hopes are being lifted, but we must be realistic and be prepared for the fall. Remember bauxite. Look at Nigeria, whose oil is controlled by foreigners and large multinational corporations. Rooplall Dudhnath

I am not mentally enslaved by any political party DEAR EDITOR, I would like to inform Mr. Gobin Harbhajan the Prime Minister’s Representative of Region Six that I am a very simple and humble person, and I am always ready to stand for the truth and support any person or party/organization that is there to protect us and develop our country. I have traveled to a number of countries and have never been refused entry nor was I ever deported from any. He labeled me as a political rolling stone. What I do know is I attend public meetings of all the political parties. Does that make me an activist or member of those parties or a veteran politician as he claims? Oh what a small mind. I have never enter any PNC or UF office much less being part of those parties, I was never an AFC RDC Councillor as he claims, this can be verified by our regional office, but I did serve as a ROAR Councillor between 2001 and 2003 and I have all the minutes to prove my solid contribution to this region. The leader of the URP visited my home with other members of his party and we exchanged views, does this make me a URP? I would like Mr. Harbhajan to know that I do not chase decent people away when they come to my home because I respect people and their views.

Editor, he claimed that I am guilty of parking vehicles on the road shoulders. I reside in # 75 Village, obliquely opposite one of GuySuCo’s main dams known as Baker Shop dam, which farmers, contractors ranchers, etc use to go to the back dam, and for which they have to get a written pass with the vehicle number stated on it before being allowed in. During the rainy season they are not allowed to enter with heavy vehicles, so they would park their vehicles on the road shoulders for the day while they go and do their work. Am I responsible for this? Mr. Harbhajan mentioned that 200 persons visit his office with complaints every month (and he would have directed them to the relevant authorities for action) (his words, check his letter) therefore he is running a referral office, because if he is indeed a representative of the Prime Minister, then he should make certain decisions on the spot, but as stated in his letter, he is referring them to the relevant authorities - a job a student doing work study is capable of doing. Taxpayers cannot afford to waste so much money to keep a referral office. Mr. Harbhajan mentioned in his letter that he was instrumental in intercepting 150

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bags of fertilizers for which he should be complimented. Well, a senior regional functionary at the time told me that he received the information first, then he called Mr. Harbhajan and told him to see what best he could do about the matter. So Mr. Harbhajan wants compliments for carrying out instructions. I ask Mr. Harbhajan to throw some light on this matter, because time and again I have heard farmers asking “ah wanda wha happen wid da fertiliza story”. I did not ask him to adjudicate on the matter, because he, being the most senior government officer in region #6 as he is claiming, would have access to information, and if he cannot get that information for us, then surely taxpayers’ monies is being wasted on him and his office. Editor, I would like to let it be known to all that I am not mentally enslaved to any political party nor is my navel string buried in any party. I believe Guyana should be for all Guyanese, and any government that protects the citizens and develops our beautiful country, I will support. I have seen since the death of the late Dr. Jagan and President Hoyte, and successive governments, that (Continued on page 6)

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EU raises concerns with Myanmar’s Suu Kyi over detention of Reuters reporters YANGON (Reuters) - The European Union’s envoy to Myanmar has raised concerns about the arrest of two Reuters journalists in a letter to the country’s leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, describing the situation as “serious intimidation” and calling for their immediate release. The Reuters journalists, Wa Lone, 31, and Kyaw Soe Oo, 27, were detained on Dec. 12. They are being investigated on suspicion of breaching the Official Secrets Act, a little-used law that dates from the days of British colonial rule. They had worked on coverage of a crisis in the western state of Rakhine, where a military crackdown that followed militant attacks on security forces in August led to an exodus of more than 650,000 Rohingya Muslims to refugee camps in Bangladesh. The two are due to appear in court tomorrow. It will be their second appearance in court and the prosecutor could request that charges are filed against them. “This situation amounts to a serious intimidation against journalists in general and from Reuters in particular,” said Kristian Schmidt, representative in Yangon of the EU’s 28 states, said in the letter dated Jan. 8. “Journalists should ... be

Reuters journalists Wa Lone (L) and Kyaw Soe Oo, at the office in Yangon, Myanmar December 11, 2017. REUTERS/Antoni Slodkowski/File Photo able to work in a free and enabling environment without fear of intimidation or undue arrest or prosecution,” he said. “We therefore call on your government to provide the necessary legal protection for these two journalists, to ensure the full respect of their fundamental rights and to release them immediately.” Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo were detained after they were invited to meet police for dinner in Yangon. The Ministry of Information has cited the police as saying they were “arrested for possessing important and secret government documents related to Rakhine State and security forces”. It said they had “illegally acquired information with the intention to share it with foreign me-

dia”. Government officials from some of the world’s major nations, including the United States, Britain and Canada, as well as top U.N. officials, have called for their release. Reuters President and Editor-In-Chief Stephen J. Adler has called for the immediate release of the two. “As they near their hearing date, it remains entirely clear that they are innocent of any wrongdoing,” Adler said in a statement yesterday. Authorities have blocked access to media seeking to cover the military crackdown in the north of Rakhine State. The United Nations has condemned the military campaign there as ethnic cleansing, a charge Buddhist-majority Myanmar has rejected.

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Trump could be interviewed within weeks in Russia probe: Washington Post WA S H I N G TO N (Reuters) - President Donald Trump could be interviewed within weeks as part of Special Counsel Robert Mueller ’s investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, the Wa s h i n g t o n P o s t r e ported yesterday. Mueller raised the issue of interviewing Trump during a meeting in late December with the president’s lawyers, John Dowd and Jay Sekulow, the Post said. T h e i n t e r v i e w, w h i c h would deal with a limited portion of questions, could take place within the next several weeks, the Post said, citing a person close to the president. Sekulow and Dowd did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the Washington Post report. White House attorney Ty C o b b d e c l i n e d t o comment on it, saying it was policy not to comment on communications with the special counsel’s office. E a r l i e r y e s t e r d a y, a source familiar with the issue said discussions about Trump’s possible

testimony have been going on among lawyers. NBC News reported that Trump’s attorneys were in discussions about the president being interviewed in connection w i t h M u e l l e r ’s R u s s i a probe. Citing three people familiar with the situation, NBC said lawyers for Trump had met with representatives of Mueller ’s office in late December to discuss the logistics of any such interview. They included the location and length of such an interview as well as legal standards and options for its format, including written responses instead of a formal sit-down, according to the network. The spokesman for the special counsel’s office, Peter Carr, declined to comment on the report. Mueller has been appointed by the Justice Department to investigate allegations of Russian meddling in the November 2016 election and possible collusion with Trump’s campaign. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that Russia inter-

fered in the election to try to help Trump win. Russia has denied any meddling, and Trump has said there was no collusion. Democratic U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said in an interview with MSNBC television on Monday that he expected Mueller would try to talk to the president “face-toface.” Mueller’s probe so far has led to two Trump associates, former national security adviser Michael Flynn and campaign aide George Papadopoulos, pleading guilty to lying to FBI agents. Tw o o t h e r s , f o r m e r Trump campaign manager Paul Ma n a f o r t a n d h i s associate, Richard Gates, were indicted on money laundering charges but have pleaded not guilty. Trump said on Saturd a y h e w a s willing to speak with Mueller’s team. “There’s been no collusion; there ’s b e e n n o crime,” he told reporters at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryl a n d . “ A n d , i n t h e o r y, everybody tells me I‘m not under investigation.”

I am not mentally enslaved by... The Bitter Struggle for Sweet... From page 5 our country keeps going down. The only thing that is consistent in this world is change, and if any new political party is to be formed with decent and dedicated persons, I will give them my support to save Guyana for future generations.

Even if Mr. Harbhajan wants to call me a political rolling stone, it doesn’t bother me. I would not have responded to his letter, but I just needed to debunk all the misrepresentations. Harri P. Beharry

From page 4 recreational facilities that provide scarce clean entertainment opportunities for residents in these communities will swiftly disappear. Alcohol and drug abuse will flourish in replacement. DR. CHEDDI JAGAN Dr. Clive Thomas, the chairman of GuySuCo, is quoted in the press, as saying that the Skeldon co-generation plant supplies electricity to the national grid for 65,000 families. GPL receives the revenue. Not a cent goes to the sugar industry. This supply of electricity will soon die. Demerara Distillers Ltd. one of Guyana’s largest

manufacturing companies, is currently reviewing the impact that the closure of the sugar industry will have on its capacity to continue to produce rum. The above is by no means exhaustive. However, it provides more than a glimpse of the devastation, which will flow from the closure of the sugar industry. This is nothing short of a human rights tragedy, nay economic genocide. I do not think Guyana’s economy is sufficiently either versatile or robust enough to sustain the social and economic onslaught that the closure of the sugar industry will soon unleash. I am confident that the government will not survive it. Our society is simply too small and our economy too integrated to be insulated from the consequences. Like the finan-

cial crisis that hit the world in 2008, the economic and social meltdown will affect every citizen. As for the PPP, we will stand resolutely not only with the sugar workers, but with all other workers who will reel from this disaster. We will use the one hundredth birth anniversary of Dr. Cheddi Jagan as the platform for the struggle and to inspire us to work relentlessly in order to ensure not only the survival of these workers and their families, but also the eventual reversal of this evil, inconsiderate, and unwarranted decision to close the sugar industry. We recognize that struggle will be long and hard and the sacrifices will be many; but win we must for our cause is just. History and time are on our side. Mohabir Anil Nandlall, MP Attorney-at-Law

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday January 09, 2018

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North, South Korea to hold talks as Winter Olympics help break ice SEOUL (Reuters) - North and South Korea will hold their first formal talks for more than two years today, brought together by sport to discuss how the North’s athletes can attend next month’s Winter Olympics in the South despite simmering fears of conflict. Regardless of its narrow, primarily sporting agenda, the meeting will be closely watched by world leaders eager for any sign of a reduction in tensions on the Korean peninsula amid rising fears over North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons and defiance of United Nations Security Council resolutions. “The talks will focus on North Korea’s participation in the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics and our preparations have centered around some requests made by the North for a peaceful Olympic Games,” Unification Ministry spokesman Baek Tae-hyun told a media conference yesterday. Some South Korean officials are hoping the two Koreas may even march under a single flag at a sports opening ceremony for the first

time in more than a decade. Five senior officials from each side will meet at the three-storey Peace House on the South Korean side of the Panmunjom truce village, with talks to begin at 10 a.m. (0100 GMT). As previously, cameras and microphones will be placed in the room to ensure that officials from both sides can monitor the talks as they happen. The United States, which has 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea as a legacy of the 1950-1953 Korean War, initially responded coolly to the idea of inter-Korean meetings. The State Department had said Pyongyang “might be trying to drive a wedge” between Washington and Seoul and weaken a U.S.-led campaign to force North Korea to give up its development of nucleartipped missiles capable of hitting the United States. U.S. President Donald Trump spent much of the past year deriding negotiations as useless and lobbing insults at North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

South Korean soldiers stand guard at a check point on the Grand Unification Bridge that leads to the truce village of Panmunjom, just south of the demilitarized zone separating the two Koreans, in Paju, South Korea. REUTERS/ Kim Hong-ji But on Thursday, Trump called the new talks “a good thing” and said they had been prompted by his “firm, strong” stance, which has included harsher international sanctions and

threats of military intervention if the North does not give up its weapons program. O n S a t u r d a y, Tr u m p said he was “100 percent” behind the talks and hoped for positive developments.

He also said he would “absolutely” be willing to talk on the phone to Kim. “Look, right now they’re talking Olympics. It’s a start, it’s a big start,” he said. “If something can happen and

something comes out of those talks, that would be a great thing for all of humanity, that would be a great thing for the world,” he said. Trump said he would like to see talks go beyond the Olympics and added: “At the appropriate time, we’ll get involved.” A spokeswoman for the U.S. State Department, Katina Adams, did not respond directly when asked about suggestions from some South Korean officials that the two Koreas could march under a single flag at the Olympic opening ceremony and even compete as a single nation in some events, but said: “ We a r e i n c l o s e contact with the Republic of Korea about our unified response to North Korea, including the need to maintain pressure to achieve a denuclearized Korean Peninsula. “Diplomatic options remain viable and open and the United States remains committed to finding a peaceful path to denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula.”

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Kaieteur News

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Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK;Guyanapassport application. G r a p h i c s design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVE MARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Eagle’s: Re-gas –low prices, washing machine repairs, gas stove, plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/646-0966 Xtreme Clean- Janitorial and Home Management Services. For washing, painting, renting and administrative services. Call: 216-3467. Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 “Budhram’s Landscaping service” Free advice, free design, free after care, followup 656-1326 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIR CONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINES, FREEZERS,SALE OFAC’S TEL:6294946,225-4822. Desmond Repair Services Fridge, AC, gas stove, microwave, washer, etc on the spot repairs –Call: (592)678-8683

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 dark interior, fully loaded, Nissan pickup extra cab. Call: 617-5536 One RZ minibus BRR series, mag rim ,cat eyes. $1.5. Tel: 668-9672, 686-9965.

One miller, welding generator, excellent condition. One mig welder. Contact: 699-4300, 228-2734 Foxtail,Supari,Royal Palm @1,000 Crootons,Ashoka trees,potting soil @800,lawn grass, Exora, Ficus 4 for 1000.Tel: 626-1044 Pure breed German Shepherd for sale (Black & Black and tan) Tele no: 626-0953 or 6509998 1 used Jialing JH125-35B Motorcycle. Call: 613-7771/ 688-8887

EDUCATION Register your child for after school classes for slow learners in Mathematics, Reading, Phonics, Spelling, etc. Call: 675-4379 Lessons: Phonics, Reading & Writing for Kindergarten, grades 1-5 Mathematics & English. Lessons for form 1-5. Call: 690-9378 Alliance Françaíse Guyana French classes January 2018, Register 61 Upper Robb Street Bourda, Thurday 11th Friday 12th 4:30-6pm & Saturday 13th 10:30-12pm #692-2965. LEARN TO DRIVE Ultraviolet driving school is offering a 6 days driving lesson for $7,500.Come and enjoy it! Tel: 602-2583 C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj Building- Call: 644-5166; 6222872; 615-0964; 689-5997 (affordable packages).

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Vreed-en-hoop junction. Lessons place, storage bond, office, other. Call 6036400. 1 Flat concrete house (Tiled, grilled,PVC ceiling) 3 bedroom, 1 self-contained room @ Parafaite Harmonie & Onderneerming, $50,000 monthly #662-6818. Bottom flat, two bedroom apartment in 19 Ave Diamond. Call: 647-6056.

CAR RENTAL DOLLY’SCARRENTAL-CALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR R E N TA L : S U V F O R RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL:6435122/656-0087, ,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,SPECIALOFFERS! . CALL: 690-6494 TOLET One business space, located at 177 Charlotte & Alexander St. Kindly call: 689-3462, 6443555. Serious enquiries only. LAND FOR SALE Parafaite Harmonie $1.5M Uitvlugt-$2.5M Zeelugt$2.4M.Tel:642-1252 Parafaite Harmonie- High income 2nd Avenue pitch road with big parpet, concrete wall (100ft x 50ft) $3M Tele: 6560701/651-1969 Farm (Newly fence) (East Bank) $3.5M Uivlugt (100ft x 50ft) $3M Herstelling $2.5M Parafaite Harmonie $1M & 1.4M Tel# 656-0701/651-1969 PROPERTY FOR SALE Supermarket at 17th Avenue, Diamond. Tel: 626-3423 PEN PAL You deserve a relationship filled with love. Call Harmony: 676-6312.

WANTED

VACANCY

Full time waiter/waitress to work at Aagman Restaurant, Sheriff street, experience preferred. Call: 219-0158/ 2190161. Live in waitress to work in bar. Call: 604-6606/ 692-4649 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#226-9768/615-6172 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, 1 heavy duty mechanic, 1 cashier, 1 filing clerk, 1 accounting clerk, 1 company secretary. Call: 6044149 Experienced drivers, Waiters, Roti & puri cook, apply with written application, Hacks Restaurant, 5 Commerce St. General domestic with cooking experience, ages 3045 Call 629-9450 Security Guards, ages 40-55 East Bank area preferable. Call 226-1100 Experienced hire car drivers and dispatchers. Contact 6165419, 265-7076 Drivers for private cars & Mini bus route 44 @ 4 First St Albertown, walk with application. Heavy duty mechanic to work in interior. Must know to drive and welding is an asset. 6802702 One welder to work in the interior. Meals and accommodation provided. Must have driver’s license. 680-2702 300+ acres fertile agriculture land on E.C.D. to lease OR partnership in agriculture project. 682-8251 1 Live-in nanny to take care of children and home. Must know to cook various food. 682-8251 1 Live-in maid between age 3550. Prefer out of town persons. Contact Ms. Edwards 6643918 between 8am-4pm Salesman, good verbal/ excellent attitude, knowledge in stocktaking, computer literate & team player. Keyfood McDoom.

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

Experienced Handyman, porter all below 40 years. Apply with written application. Keyfood McDoom Village.

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 One Mechanic with sewing machine experience, age 25 and over, please send application via email: humresdes@gmail.com One maid to work in Atlantic Gardens, ECD, Live-in (optional) 638-5303, 227-7380. Vacancy exist for 1 female 2545 years to work @ Del Ice Co. Must have Maths, English & Accounts. Call 231-1408/6429191. Cook/Baker & Kitchen Assistant for interior location. Applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020 1 Live-in domestic maid/ couple to work in Mahaicony river. Serious enquiries only. 655-9491/225-6571 1 cleaner & kitchen assistant, preferably female (to work in chinese restaurant). Contact: 231-5108, 625-8884 Experienced Security Professionals. Must have 3 yrs. experience, past military/security. Send resume & picture by email:. bvisecurityandinvestigators @gmail.com. One Domestic to work 2 half day per week. #225-6571 One female cleaner and driver for office in Eccles. Call: 2332745 One maid for East Bank area, must know to cook and clean. Call: 614-4358 Cleaner – submit written application to Barton-Sukhraj Accounting Lot 78 Breda & Hadfield Street, Werk-en-rust or e-mail to bs.taxes@yahoo.com

From page 14 Haimraj Rajkumar, Corriverton's Mayor, Krishnand Jaichand, is in attendance along with Anna Regina's Mayor, Rabindranauth Mohan, and Vijay Ramoo, the Mayor of Rose Hall. Reports from India are that Guyana is fielding the largest delegation to the conference. In contrast, the United States delegation features only two mayors and no MPs as the Senate is in session. O nly sitting MPs and Mayors have been invited; no ministers and heads of state. A total of 141 public representatives from various countries are participating in the conference. Some 124 MPs from the UK, Canada, Fiji, Kenya, Mauritius, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and other countries are slated to take part. The Indian Government believes the one-day interaction with help to establish a network with leaders of Indian origin in various countries, and get a feedback on the direction in which Indian engagement with the Diaspora should proceed. The event will be conducted in two working sessions on PIO Parliamentarians the story of the journey to parliament, and Resurgent India, the role of PIO Parliamentarians. The frequency of the conference has not been decided yet and will be decided on the basis of the response from the first meeting.

VACANCY Minibus driver living in G/ town to work with company. 664-0802 Temporary Tax Consultant – Minimum qualification – CXC inclusive of Mathematics, Accounting & English, e-mail application to bs.taxes@yahoo.com General workers and sale girl and boy needed. Call: 6680159

WANTED We buy land in Eccles and Herstelling, we buy oil paintings on canvas. Tel# 656-0701/651-1969 Private tutor for ACAA, Any two papers among F5-F9. Email interest to odalexa@yahoo.com Kitchen assistant #644-5884 Ask for Tanya

SALON Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. -CosmetologyCourses: $90,000 Nail Technician Course: $35,000. Call: 647-1773/688-0009

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Hurricane-hit Caribbean countries slash cost of Citizenship by investment - report NEW YORK (CMC) – Caribbean nations ravaged by recent hurricanes are selling citizenship at dramatically discounted prices in an effort to raise emergency funds, sparking concerns that the programmes may be vulnerable to abuse, according to reports here. Past scandals involving Iranian-born individuals buying St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship to evade sanctions and invest in the US highlight the potential vulnerabilities of citizenshipby-investment programmes — which have been branded “passports for sale,” reported NBC News on Saturday. In some cases, those prepared to pay US$100,000 or more for citizenship don’t even need to travel to the country before getting the documentation, the US television network said. It said some experts worry the scramble to pay for hurricane-relief efforts could make authorities more inclined to approve would-be citizens and result in laxer vetting practices. Five Caribbean nations currently offer citizenship in

exchange for either a one-off contribution to the nation or an investment in a designated sector, such as real estate and many of those countries’ passports allow visa-free travel to the European Union. “It’s fairly clear these programmes are being exploited by all sorts of people with something to hide – whether that be tax evaders, terror finance operatives, drug cartels or corrupt oligarchs, you name it,” said Emanuele Ottolenghi, a senior fellow at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, a right-leaning Washington, D.C.-based think tank. “You need cash in hand and it’s a pretty straightforward process which doesn’t take that long.” Hurricanes Irma and Maria tore through the Caribbean last fall, devastating dozens of islands, including several where citizenship-byinvestment is an option. In September, it said St. Kitts and Nevis set up a “hurricane relief fund,” which allows foreigners to contribute US$150,000 in exchange for citizenship. The programme, which is open until the end of March,

is US$100,000 cheaper than the country’s previously lowest-priced citizenship-byinvestment offer. Antigua and Barbuda then followed suit, halving its programme’s basic contribution from US$200,000 to US$100,000, according to Sir Ronald Sanders, the country’s ambassador to the US. Grenada also lowered the price of one its routes to citizenship, according to Henley and Partners, a consultancy firm which specializes in citizenship and residency-byinvestment. However, St. Lucia and D o m i n i c a ’s single-

applicant investment costs both remained at US$100,000. Peter Vincent, a former US Department of Homeland Security official, warned that strong background checks carried out on behalf of the Caribbean countries were essential to prevent criminals from obfuscating their true identities and obtaining passports, according to the television network. He said that could potentially allow them to use the travel documents to get to the United States. Vincent, according to NBC, said that during his time working for the US Department of Justice in

Colombia he knew that narcotraffickers and members of the FARC guerrilla group were “actively and aggressively” trying to obtain Caribbean passports to evade the law. “The move to lower prices will undoubtedly decrease the amount of money available to conduct proper due diligence,” Vincent said. Ottolenghi agreed that the cheaper costs raised questions. “There is a risk they will cut corners when there is less margin for revenue, potentially spending less on due diligence and investigating each case, making citizenship available to more people who shouldn’t have it,” he said. “This race to the bottom is not good.” But Caribbean islands and brokering firms dismissed concerns that the standard of background checks will slip as prices fall, pointing to the fact that there are separate due diligence fees on top of the base cost of citizenship, NBC News reported. “There’s been a big shift recently on the amount of emphasis they [countries] put on due diligence,” said

Paul Williams, chief executive officer of La Golden Visas, a citizenship-by-investment consultancy firm. Williams said he thought vetting was tougher than ever before in the industry. He also clarified that while applicants need to visit Antigua and Barbuda, the other four countries don’t require you to step foot on the island to obtain citizenship-by-investment, according to NBC. It said Sanders stated that Antigua and Barbuda “strictly adhered” to its vetting system, which consisted of four stages, though he cautioned that there was always a chance that someone of “doubtful character” could slip through. He added that it wasn’t in any country’s interest to sell citizenship to undesirable applicants because it could jeopardize visa-free travel arrangements with other countries — a key selling point of the citizenship programme. “If they were given to people of dubious quality or a criminal nature, then the entire program is brought into question,” Sanders told NBC.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 09, 2018

At least 1,900 immigrants rejected because of mail problems - USCIS WASHINGTON (CMC) – The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) agency has acknowledged that more than 1,900 young Caribbean and

other immigrants’ applications to renew temporary work permits were wrongly rejected for being late. As the US Congress debates the future of the

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme, (DACA), which is set to expire on March 5, the rejected applicants have been scrambling to overcome the government’s error.

According to the New York Times, many have already lost their work permits, causing a cascade of consequences. Mauricio Noroña, a lawyer for the Immigrant

Community Law Center in Manhattan, New York, called the 1,900-figure, “astounding.” He saw the devastating effects the mail delays had on one of his clients, whom he declined to name, saying she was afraid of repercussions from the government. “She lost her job, lost her apartment, and is now temporarily staying with family in her home state,” Noroñ a s a i d . “ M o r e worrisome, our client is at risk of being placed in removal proceedings pending her DACA renewal, a process that may take months because USCIS didn’t commit to expedite affected cases.” A spokesman for the immigration agency, Steve Blando, said that the agency has given people 33 days to resubmit their renewal forms, but would not make the applications a priority, nor would the agency extend their current permits to cover any gaps, or even make the permit, when received, retroactive, the paper added. “There is no expedited processing for deferred action under DACA,” he said in a statement. “These DACA requests will be processed in accordance with standard procedures. An individual’s

deferred action under the DACA policy begins the day USCIS approves the request and is generally valid for two years from the date of issuance.” The delayed applications were first reported in November. Officials initially said that nothing could be done for the rejected applicants, and said the number was small. But as elected officials complained and the extent of the problem became clear, the agency reversed its position. Some applications reportedly sat for weeks without being delivered by the Postal Service, others arrived on t i m e a t designated collection centers in Chicago, Illinois; Dallas, Texas; and Phoenix, Arizona, but were not processed on time because of courier problems. Last week, USCIS said it sent letters to more than “1,700 individuals,” and that more than 200 applicants resubmitted their renewals before the government invited them to do so. Part of the pro b l e m , immigration activists say, was that the agency imposed a “received by” deadline, instead of relying on a postmark as it does with most other immigrationrelated applications.

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Philander takes six as South Africa... From page 29 will miss the rest of the series with a heel problem, weathered a firstwicket stand of 30 for India in reply. Shikhar Dhawan (16) was out first as he sparred a rising deliver from Morne Morkel (2-39) to gully. Philander picked up his first wicket as fellow opener Murali Vijay (13) edged to third slip. Cheteshwar Pujara (four) became Morkel’s second victim with the score on 39, before Indian captain Virat Kohli (28) took the attack to the South Africans. He was undone playing across a straight de-

livery from Philander. Rohit Sharma (10) was b o w l e d of f t h e i n s i d e edge by Philander before the tourists’ firstinnings hero Hardik Pandya edged Kagiso Rabada to De Villiers in the slips. Rabada claimed the w i c k e t o f Wr i d d h i m a n Saha (eight) with the last ball before tea. Philander then took three wickets in four balls to seal victory after a seventh-wicket stand of 49 between top-scorer Ravichandran Ashwin (37) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (13 not out) had briefly sent jitters through the Newlands crowd.

“We were in the game for the three days and it was a wonderful match to be part of,” Kohli said. “But we need to rectify our mistakes... the mindset really matters when you travel away from home.” South Africa are hosting India in a three-test series this month, with matches to come in Pretoria, starting on S a t u r d a y, and Johannesburg. Scores: South Africa 2 8 6 ( D e Vi l l i e r s 6 5 , D u Plessis 62, Bhuvneshwar 4-87) and 130 (Shami 3-28, Bumrah 3-39) beat India 209 and 135 (Philander 6-42) by 72 runs.

Tuesday January 09 , 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Be cautious while traveling to foreign countries. Get involved in groups and organizations that are of a distinguished nature. Your intuition will be right on. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You will be entertained and intrigued by the logic foreigners possess. Get ready to do some fancy footwork when it comes to taking care of your financial situation. You must look into your options. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Family outings that aren't expensive will be enjoyable and help strengthen ties. Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with. Focus on your own domestic problems. CANCER(June21–July22) Do not sign contracts or get involved in any uncertain financial deals. Do not ruffle feathers if possible. Don't think the worst if you hear something negative about your partner. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Don't make any drastic changes or begin new projects today. Find a way to consolidate. Put your time and energy into travel, philosophy, and soul-searching. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You will be full of good ideas, and your choice of activities may bring you enrichment far beyond your expectations. Discuss your objectives with partners or peers. Focus your efforts on details, and keep to yourself in order to finish your work.

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Kaieteur News

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Try to curb overindulgence today. Your romantic inclination should lead to a committed relationship. Get busy trying to make more money. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Drastic financial losses may be likely if you lend money. Take some time to change your house around. If you can't get away, make plans to do something special with friends or relatives. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You are best not to discuss your personal life with others. Be careful signing important contracts today. Invite friends over. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You can make gains if you look at long-term investments. You will be encouraged to get involved in a moneymaking venture. Resist the temptation to gamble. Risks will not be profitable. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Your ability to put a deal together will surprise others. It's time to get yourself back on track. Don't let others bully you into agreeing with them. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You are best to avoid joint ventures, and whatever you do, don't lend to friends or relatives. Abrupt changes in your home may send you for a loop. Don't bother getting even; they'll make themselves look bad.

NBA roundup: Bender’s big second half helps Suns beat Thunder 114-100 (The Associated Press) PHOENIX — Dragan Bender scored 17 of his career-high 20 points in the second half, rookie Josh Jackson had 17 points and 10 rebounds in his first career double-double, and the Phoenix reserves helped the Suns beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 114-100 on Sunday night. Bender made a career-best six 3-pointers, going 5 of 6 in the second half. The Suns beat the Thunder for the third straight time dating to last season, with all three wins coming in Phoenix. Russell Westbrook had his 14th triple-double of the season and second in a row with 26 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds, but Oklahoma City never led after the first quarter. Paul George added 19 points and Steven Adams 18 for the Thunder. Devin Booker scored 26 and T.J. Warren 23 for Phoenix. TRAIL BLAZERS 111, SPURS 110 PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — CJ McCollum hit a floater with 5.9 seconds left to give Portland a victory over San Antonio with both teams shorthanded. McCollum finished with 25 points and Maurice Harkless added 19 off the bench for the Blazers, who were without starter Damian Lillard. It was Portland’s fifth win in seven games, and third straight victory at home. Former Blazer LaMarcus Aldridge had 30 points and 14 rebounds, while Manu Ginobili added 26 points, including six 3-pointers, for the Spurs. HEAT 103, JAZZ 102

Murray... From page 26 necessarily achieve a positive outcome, but finally decided it was his only realistic option because he had been in constant pain for six months. “With a good surgery and a good recovery a 100 percent comeback is more than possible,” Becker, who will be working as a Eurosport analyst at the Open, told Reuters. “Lleyton Hewitt had it, Tommy Haas had it, just to mention a few who came back and played strong. I just wish that he had done it earlier. “Hindsight is always easier. He tried the conservative route but came to the conclusion that the only way back was surgery. If he had done it earlier he could have been back earlier.”

MIAMI (AP) — Josh Richardson’s layup with 5.1 seconds left capped a Miami rally from eight points down in the fourth, Donovan Mitchell missed what would have been the winner at the buzzer and the Heat beat Utah. Tyler Johnson and Goran Dragic each scored 16 points for Miami, which has won four straight — all by single digits, the Heat’s longest stretch of such games since November 2012. Richardson and Hassan Whiteside each had 14 points, and Kelly Olynyk had 12. Mitchell scored 19 of his 27 points in the second half, but couldn’t save Utah from dropping its seventh straight on the road. He went into the backcourt to take the final inbounds pass and wound up taking a jumper from the right side that missed as time expired. KNICKS 100, MAVERICKS 96 DALLAS (AP) — Kristaps Porzingis scored 29 points and Jarrett Jack made the tiebreaking basket with 31.2 seconds left as New York

beat Dallas. Kyle O’Quinn had 15 points and 11 rebounds, and Enes Kanter added 13 points and 18 boards for the Knicks, who ended a three-game losing streak and sent the Mavericks to their third straight loss — all at home. Harrison Barnes scored 25 points and Devin Harris had nine of his 11 in the fourth quarter as the Mavericks made yet another rally on the night they honored their longtime point guard Derek Harper by retiring his jersey. LAKERS 132, HAWKS 113 LOS ANGELES (AP) — Brandon Ingram had 20 points and seven assists, and Los Angeles snapped a ninegame losing streak with a victory over Atlanta. Julius Randle had 15 points and nine rebounds in this sixth straight start, while Lonzo Ball finished with 13 points, 10 assists and six rebounds. Dennis Schroder led the Hawks with 27 points on 10of-23 shooting. Kent Bazemore and John Collins added 15 points apiece.

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Tuesday January 09, 2018

Kaieteur News

Australia romp to victory and 4-0 Ashes triumph SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia romped to an innings and 123-run victory over England after dismissing the tourists for 180 on the final day of the fifth test yesterday to complete a 4-0 Ashes triumph that fell short of a whitewash but was little less emphatic. England captain Joe Root raced from his hospital bed, where he had been treated overnight for gastroenteritis, to try to rescue a face-saving draw but when he failed to reappear after lunch the die was cast for the tourists. Australia’s bowling attack - the potency of which has been one of the main points of difference between the two sides - mopped up the last four batsmen at the cost of just 36 runs after the break at Sydney Cricket Ground. “The cricket we have played has been outstanding,” said Australia captain Steve Smith, whose batting was another major factor in the triumph. “This team has been magnificent in this series, the cricket we’ve played has been great so I think the more we play together the more we are going to get better as a group. We have just got to keep getting better and improving as a team.” All four of Australia’s main bowlers took more than 20 wickets over the series, with quick Pat Cummins coming out top with 23 after removing Jonny Bairstow (38), Stuart Broad (4) and Mason Crane (2) on Monday.

Cummins was named man of the match for his total haul of 8-119 while Josh Hazlewood performed the coup de grace when he had James Anderson caught behind for two. Nathan Lyon (3-54) had taken the only wicket of the opening session as he continued his dominance of Moeen Ali (13), who has fallen seven times in nine innings to the off spinner in the series. Australia’s batsmen also played a full part in the return of the coveted urn, with Mitchell Marsh, his brother Shaun and Usman Khawaja all getting into three figures as the hosts made 649 declared in their reply to England’s first innings 346. “Everyone’s had an impact and that’s what has been so special about it, it hasn’t just been one or two guys stepping up and doing the job,” Smith added. Despite Smith’s determination to share the credit, he was the inevitable selection as player of the series after scoring 687 runs at an average of 137.4, backing up his status as the world’s top batsman. “I am really proud of the way that I have played in the series and led from the front,” he said. “My mind is probably in as good a space as it has been with my batting.” KEY MOMENTS England managed only three centuries to Australia’s nine over the series, with Smith alone matching their

Jonny Bairstow’s lengthy resistance was ended soon after the break by Pat Cummins ©Getty Images tally. Anderson, who stood in for the ailing Root in the presentation ceremony, thought that the Ashes had been decided by a few key moments and there was no need for an overhaul of the side. “We’ve not played well enough and they’ve deserved to win. They’re well within their rights to be over the moon with that win,” he said. “But I do think it’s been closer than 4-0. We’ve been on top in some games, if not all the games at some stage.

They’ve just played those pressurised moments better than us.” The tourists will also take pride from refusing to buckle despite being outclassed in four of the five tests and Root’s determination to bat on Monday typified their fighting spirit. The 27-year-old was 42 not out with England 93 for four at close of play on day four but he experienced diarrhoea and vomiting overnight and was taken to hospital for

treatment. Root received an ovation when he came out to resume his innings and had soon secured his 37th test half century with three runs to fine leg. He suffered a recurrence of the symptoms during the lunch break, though, and Tom Curran came out to bat in his place, leaving Root retired hurt for 58 and sleeping in the dressing room when Australia paraded the tiny trophy. “We’ve known for a few weeks they’re going to lift the

urn, but seeing them do it in person is tough to watch,” said Anderson. “All the guys in the dressing room are hurting. That feeling that you get should make you determined to win the Ashes back in 2019.” Scores: Australia 7 for 649 dec (Khawaja 171, S Marsh 156, M Marsh 101, Smith 83, Warner 56) beat England 346 (Root 83, Malan 62, Cummins 4-80) and 180 (Cummins 4-39, Lyon 3-54) by an innings and 123 runs.

Murray undergoes hip surgery, eyes Wimbledon return LONDON (Reuters) Three-times grand slam champion Andy Murray underwent hip surgery yesterday but is optimistic about his chances of returning in time for Wimbledon and believes he can still challenge for major titles. The 30-year-old Briton has not played a competitive match since hobbling to defeat by Sam Querrey in the Wimbledon quarter-finals six months ago and last week he withdrew from the Australian Open. “Today I underwent successful right hip surgery at the St Vincent Hospital in Melbourne,” Murray said on Facebook. “I’d like to thank Dr John O‘Donnell and all of the staff for looking after me. I look forward to returning to competitive tennis during the grasscourt season,” he added. “Thanks to everyone for

all the well wishes and support over the last few days. I’ll come back from this.” Murray, who ended 2016 as world number one, has slipped down to 19th in the rankings but the Scot is insists he is not a spent force. “I‘m not finished playing tennis yet. I‘m going to be competing at the highest level again,” Murray, talking from his hospital bed, was quoted as saying by British media. “I‘m very optimistic about the future - the surgeon is very happy about how it went.” CONTINUE RECOVERY Murray is expected to return home in a week or two to continue his recovery and rehabilitation. The twice Wimbledon champion and reigning Olympic champion has made it back from surgery before after having an operation to his

Murray posted a picture of himself in hospital with coach Jamie Delgado at his bedside. (Andy Murray Instagram) lower back at the end of 2013. He went on to win a second Wimbledon title in 2016 and played arguably the best tennis of his career. Last year, however, his hip began to cause concern at the

French Open where he reached the semi-finals and he was walking with a limp throughout Wimbledon. While he faces the possibility of almost a year out in total, Murray says if he can

return to 95 percent of his best he can still compete for the game’s biggest prizes. “The surgeon felt that my hip will be feeling better than it did a year ago,” Murray said. “Obviously, I was still

doing fine a year ago - I was ranked number one in the world. “I‘m certainly not going to be putting in the same amount of tournaments and effort to try to get to number one in the world. “I’ll be playing a reduced schedule, and then focusing more on trying to win major events and big tournaments rather than trying to achieve certain ranking goals. “So if I can get myself to 95 per cent of my best, I believe that’s enough to compete at the highest level. No question.” Former world number one Boris Becker believes a “100 percent comeback” is possible for Murray, although the German says he might be regretting leaving the surgery so long. Murray had hoped to avoid going under the knife, saying it would not (Continued on page 25)

Tuesday January 09, 2018

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GTT/Pulse Launch Mash Fitness Camp Promises to take the road by storm with spectacular Amazon Gem Costumes GTT/Pulse yesterday launched its Mashramani Fitness Camp at the Everest Cricket Club ground, Eve Leary as part of the company’s aim to have persons get fit, toned and ready to take the road by storm on Mash Day, February 23rd next. GTT/Pulse became the corporate forerunner of Mash 2018 with the November 2017 launch of its Costume Band under the theme, ‘Amazon Gems’. The band is part of the company’s contribution to the cultural celebration of the nation’s 48th Republic Anniversary celebration. Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture Dr. George Norton, a health professional who was on hand to officially declare open the Fitness Camp noted that he is a passionate promoter of exercise and diet as a means of achieving health and wellness in society. Mashramani 2018 is being celebrated under the theme, “Let’s cooperate and celebrate Republic 48". Minister Norton, who took some time to perform some fitness moves with the more than 100 early bird participants led by Titan English of Fusion Fitness and Andrew Bowman, noted his ministry’s pleasure at being a part of this initiative whilst complimenting GTT for its commitment to Guyana’s development in the area of the promotion and development of cultural heritage. The subject minister went on to inform that Mash 2018 would be serving up a mouth watering list of activities including calypso, soca and chutney competitions, steel band concerts and competitions as well as masquerade among others which will conclude with the costume and

Participants of the GTT/Pulse Mash Fitness Camp during their warm up session yesterday at eth Everest Cricket Club ground. (Franklin Wilson photo) float parade, “A true showcase of Guyanese creativity, genius and unity.” ”Once again I would like to thank GTT for the confidence they have placed in the festival and the leadership they have shown as a corporate citizen. To mount a programme of physical fitness in preparation for the celebratory aspect of our Republican Anniversary 2018 is to demonstrate care for the healthy lifestyle necessary for Mashramani and beyond,” Dr. Norton posited. Also speaking at yesterday launch were Mr. Orson Ferguson, GTT Director of

Strategic Planning and Mr. Robbie Singh, CEO of Pulse Entertainment. The Fitness Camp will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from January 8 to February 21, from 16:30 to 18:30hrs, two one hour sessions. Persons will have the option to experience training in Zumba, high intensity, cardio aerobics and isometrics. Meanwhile, the GTT/ Pulse band has to date been the only concrete indication of participation from Corporate Guyana in the National Costume and Float Parade to be held on February 23.

GTT has chosen to connect with Guyanese and will take them on a journey deep into the Guyana Amazon to reveal some of the most precious gemstones through the band themed, ‘Amazon Gems’. Purchase of any of the costumes entitles the buyer to a package of nine events which includes: 1. January 8, 2018 FREE Fitness Camp/Press Conference that runs to February 21, 2018 2. January 27, 2018 Pulse Cooler Fete 3. January 28, 2018 Mash Family Fun Day

Sixers banking on Brathwaite to lift fortunes SYDNEY, Australia, CMC – Sydney S i x e r s h a v e signed We s t Indies Twenty20 captain Carlos Brathwaite for their four remaining games of the Australian Big Bash. The big-hitting 29year-old Brathwaite and England’s Joe Denly rep l a c e E n g l and one-day players Sam Billings and Jason Roy, who will leave following Monday’s game against Hobart Hurricanes. “ C a r l o s ’s a l l - r o u n d skills will be welcomed,”

said Sixers coach Greg Shipperd. “His power-hitting and wily medium pace, and dynamic fielding all go to make him a precious resource in this format.” Ironically, the charismatic Brathwaite turned out last season for Sixers cross-town rivals Sydney Thunder, taking six wickets in three matches and instantly becoming a fan favourite. Since his heroics at the 2 0 1 6 T 2 0 Wo r l d C u p ,

Brathwaite has become a feature of the international T20 circuit, already playing 101 matches and establishing himself as an explosive all-rounder. Sixers general manager Dom Remond said Brathwaite was a key addition to the franchise especially with the Sydney derby – known as they Sydney Smash – set for next Saturday. “We are very excited to have Carlos join the Sixers family,” Remond said.

“He is a world class T20 player and a fabulous entertainer. We are looking forward to him adding the wow factor for our members and fans at the SCG for the Sydney Smash.” Sixers are winless in six outings and lie seventh in the eight-team table. Brathwaite was already in the South Pacific, having led West Indies in their 2-0 defeat to New Zealand in a three-match T20 International series last week.

4. February 16, 2018 Mash Fitness Run 5. February 17, 2018 J’Ouvert 6. February 21, 2018 Fitness Camp Event Finale

7. February 22, 2018 Thurs On The Rocks - Day Fete 8. February 23, 2018 Mash Road March 9. February 24, 2018 Mash After Party

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Australian Open: Victoria Azarenka pulls out over custody dispute

Victoria Azarenka last played at Wimbledon in July 2017. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - Two-time champion Victoria Azarenka has withdrawn from the Australian Open because of the ongoing custody battle over her 11-month-old son. Azarenka cannot leave California with Leo until the dispute is resolved. The former world number one, 28, has not played since Wimbledon last year and will be replaced in Melbourne by Australian wildcard Ajla Tomljanovic. The Belarusian joins Andy Murray and Serena Williams in withdrawing from 2018’s opening Grand Slam.

Tournament organisers announced in December she would be given a wildcard despite being ranked 201 in the world as a result of her lack of tournament play. But Australian Open director Craig Tiley said yesterday: “It’s unfortunate ‘Vika’ is unable to travel to Australia this year. “The Australian Open is her favourite tournament and she’s looking forward to returning to Melbourne next year.” Former champions Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic remain doubts for the tournament.

Despite title win Jaguars team... From page 31 Guyana pace attack, has a slight groin injury and will return home with Rutherford who has 19 wickets, replacing him in Bim. “Rutherford has played very important roles with both bat and ball for us and will get another opportunity in Barbados,” said the former Guyana fast bowler. “I believe the reason why the Jaguars have been winning for the last four years now is that we have a bunch of humble guys that I enjoy working with. I think the set up back home which was put together by CGI really helps Guyana’s cricket in terms of having that Academy because we don’t have 15 players alone to focus on. We have 15 plus 12 plus more who trains with them so if a player gets injured we have players who have been working on their game every day, to call on,” disclosed Griffith, who played 22 First-Class games and a similar number of 50overs matches for Guyana. Griffith, who has 56 FC wickets and a highest score 82 not out when he featured in a record 198-run ninth-

wicket stand with Vishal Nagamootoo who made 115 in 2003 against the Leewards in St Croix, revealed that the team play as unit and is like a family. He feels that is one of the most important things in any cricket squad. “Everyone has been playing their role and Leon Johnson’s captaincy has been great throughout this tournament and for the past few years, while Shiv Chanderpaul also plays a key role in this side both on and off the field. We can’t forget the Almighty for continuing to bless us,” Griffith added. “We want to thank the few supports for coming out to the Providence Stadium to support the Jaguars but we would like to see more fans coming out to send that positive energy to the boys. We are all Guyanese the boys play very hard to make people happy. When they open the newspapers and see something to make them smile and make their day a bit better,” Griffith encouraged. Fittingly the Jaguars will play their last game against the Red Force on home soil and Griffith said the team would love to see a packed

Providence Stadium to celebrate the title with them. Guyana begin their Super50 campaign in Antigua on January 30 and has nine 50over titles but none since 2005 when they beat Barbados in near darkness at Bourda. Griffith played his last 50over game for Guyana in that game when spin twins Neil McGarell (3-57 from 10 overs) and Mahendra Nagamootoo (3-53 from 8 overs) along with 119 from Sewnarine Chattergoon helped Guyana to Championship honours. “I remember that win but 2005 is a long time. It’s a competition (50-over format) we want to win badly. Looking back we had many good years when were reaching the semis and finals but not being able to get on top and cross the mountain. What we lacked was being aggressive in the field we have also not been aggressive in our batting or bowling. We will be looking at many things when we sit pick the Super50 team but we have to be aggressive on the park,” concluded the Chairman of the CGI panel, which selects the Guyana Franchise teams.

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Official points standings after eighth round of CWI PCL ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – Following are the Official Points Standings after the eighth round of matches which ended on Sunday in the 2017-18 Digicel 4-Day Championship. Abbreviations: PTS-total points, M-

matches, W-won, L-lost, I-incomplete match, T-tied, A-abandoned match, DPAbandoned match due to dangerous pitch, MR-match referee awarding match, BAT-batting points, BOWL-bowling points, PB-pace bowling points.

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Hero CPL Makes Strong Economic impact in Guyana

Georgetown, Guyana The Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has announced the tournament’s economic impact for Guyana. The 2017 event, which took place between 4 August and 9 September last year, created a total economic impact of US$14,183,035 in the country. This figure has been arrived at by using organiser spend, visitor spend and media value and was calculated for Hero CPL by world-renowned researchers, SMG Insight. In addition to that economic impact figure the Hero CPL created 492 jobs in

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Guyana. The tournament also filled 4097 hotel rooms during the event and broadcast matches played in Guyana to a cumulative TV audience of 19.1million. There was significant value for Guyana in terms of the country being given that coverage through the television broadcast of the event. The total brand exposure for Guyana has been calculated at US$3,294,323 with more than 37 hours coverage of the country across the tournament. The Hero CPL spent just under US$1million in Guyana during the 2017 event with

over 40% of that figure going to local staff and suppliers. This organiser spends represents a 17% increase from what Hero CPL invested in 2014. Speaking about the report from SMG Insight the Hero CPL Chief Operations Officer, Pete Russell said: “Guyana is a hugely important market for Hero CPL and we are delighted to have such a strong set of figures to share with the country. We know that we will continue to see excellent numbers from Guyana, a country that loves its cricket and has been so supportive of Hero CPL over the years.”

BCB name U-15 inter county training squad Sessions to commence tomorrow The Selection Panel of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has named a training squad in preparation for next month’s Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) U-15 Competition. Players have gained places in the squad based on their performance in the BCB’s U-15 Inter Zone Competition. Those selected are: Vettorie Latchman, Dwayne Williams, Rampertab Ramnauth, Antoine Alexander, Darius Joseph, Saffie Shaffiek, Lakeram Sookram, Shreedat Roopnarine, Tomani Caesar, Zainul Ramsammy, Avishkar Persaud, Niquan Samuels, Isia Thorne, Hemchand Raghubir, Rudra Goberdhan, Pavanand Ganesh, Leon Cecil, Tameshwar Mahadeo, Hemendra Goodial, Jonathon Rampersaud, Jeremy Sandia, Vikendra Singh, Mahindra Gopliall, A. Downer, Abdur Munroe, Matthew Pottaya and Latchman Dhanna.

Chairman of Selectors Mr. Leslie Solomon informed that the squad will be encamped shortly as preparations for the Inter-County tournament intensifies. He is confident that the players who gain selection in the final 14 will be the best of the lot and will represent the County well. “The lads will also benefit from classroom training during their period of encampment and this group comprises mainly newcomers to the Inter County scene. Much work will have to be done to ensure they are brought up to the required level,” Solomon informed. Solomon is appealing to parents to encourage and guide their offspring’s since he feels the home plays an integral part in their development. All players are required to report to the Jai Hind Cricket Club Ground, Albion at 16:00 hrs tomorrow for a briefing and commencement of training.

Philippe Coutinho: Barcelona unveil Brazil midfielder at Nou Camp

Philander takes six as South Africa beat India CAPE TOWN (Reuters) Seamer Vernon Philander took career-best figures as rampant South Africa claimed a 72-run victory over India on a gripping fourth day of the first test yesterday. Set 208 for victory, India were skittled out for 135 in 42.4 overs in their second innings on a lively wicket with Philander the chief destroyer, recording figures of 6-42. India had looked to seize control of the test when they bowled South Africa out for 130 in the morning session, but found the home attack on the seamer-friendly wicket too much of a challenge. “I was nervous we did not have enough runs,” South Africa captain Faf du Plessis told reporters. “I knew the new ball would be key for us, if we could strike early we believed we could get through their batting line-up. “But I came in this morning hoping to get a 350 lead and bowl at them tonight, so obviously that did not go to plan.” After day three had been a washout, 18 wickets fell in 64 overs on Monday, all going to seamers. South Africa resumed on 65 for two, but were only able to double their score before they lost their last eight wickets. Mohammed Shami (3-28) and debutant Jasprit Bumrah (3-39) were the pick of the Indian bowlers. Only an attacking 35 from

Coutinho will be out for around three weeks with a thigh injury. (EPA)

Vernon Philander took the last three wickets in the space of four balls to give South Africa a 1-0 lead against India ©Getty Images AB De Villiers stemmed the tide to a degree before he was the last man out.

South Africa, without injured seamer Dale Steyn who (Continued on page 25)

BBC Sport - Philippe Coutinho’s £142m move from Liverpool to Barcelona was officially confirmed yesterday as the playmaker was unveiled to fans at the Nou Camp. The Brazilian, 25, signed a five-and-a-half-year contract alongside president Josep Maria Bartomeu, before performing keepy-uppies in front of supporters. A deal for Coutinho to join Barcelona was agreed on Saturday. “I want to thank the president and everyone who has made it possible,” said Coutinho. “I am very happy, it’s a dream come true and I hope to be up to the job on the field.” Coutinho is reported to have committed £11.5m of his own money to help facilitate the deal. “Philippe, welcome. We know that you have made a personal and economic ef-

fort,” said Barcelona vicepresident Jordi Mestre. Bartomeu said the club had been pursuing Coutinho since last summer and that the Brazilian is “one of the world’s stars”. He added: “We knew it was not going to be easy to get him here. We’ve been talking and working for months on this, but one of the important aspects was he wanted to come here. “He helped make an effort, and he was patient, and that was been key in him coming here. “I also want to thank Liverpool, one of Europe’s biggest clubs, for allowing him to leave and come here.” ‘Important reduction in cost of transfer’ Liverpool rejected three Barcelona bids and a transfer request from the player during the summer transfer window. The last of those bids was £118m - which included add-

ons totalling in excess of £30m based on Coutinho winning the Ballon d’Or and other built-in clauses. Barcelona said at the time they would not be drawn into a bidding war. Asked about their willingness to now complete a deal worth £142m, vice-president Jordi Mestre said: “There was an important reduction in the cost of this transfer. We can’t go into the number.” The Reds are expected to receive £105m up front for the player, who has a buyout clause of 400m euros (£355m) in his Nou Camp contract. Coutinho passed his medical, but it did show he has a right thigh injury - which kept him out of Liverpool’s 2-1 win at Burnley on New Year’s Day. Barcelona said the midfielder is likely to be out for about three weeks, meaning the earliest he could realistically make his debut is the Catalan derby against Espanyol on 4 February.

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Tuesday January 09, 2018

GFF Elite League leaders Den Amstel to boost squad in January transfer period - Coach O’Neal Yearwood confident of success

O’Neal Yearwood After two completed rounds of play in Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League, newcomers Den Amstel are top of the table with two wins, slightly ahead of Victoria Kings and Fruta Conquerors that have also won both their games, on goal difference. When the competition resumes on Friday, February 2nd, newly promoted clubs, Milerock, NA United, Ann’s Grove and Cougars who have lost both their respective two matches played, will be hoping to get some points on the board and escape regulation. These clubs can use the current Transfer period to strengthen their squads if needed. According to the head coach of the current table toppers (Den Amstel), O’Neal Yearwood, he has acquired a good crop of players in this transfer period. So far this January, Yearwood has bolstered his squad with 17year-old Keanu Lawrence, a wide attacking player from 2nd division West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) side, Young Achievers. Yearwood described

Golden Jaguar Kester Jacobs (number 18), who will be outfitting for Den Amstel when the Elite league resumes, in action during World Cup qualifying for Guyana against Costa Rica in 2012. Lawrence as, “I think this player has vast potential, he is quick and skillful and will be a devastating on the flanks.” Den Amstel’s squad has an average age of 21 and has also snapped up central midfielder, 21-year-old Marvin Frank to go along with Guyana’s National under-20 duo of Chris Macey (central attacking midfielder) and Jermaine Cumberbatch (goalkeeper). The most important transfer coming in this January is that of 30-year-old Golden Jaguar, Kester Jacobs. Speaking to Kaieteur Sport, Yearwood noted that Jacobs who is involved in the team as a player/assistant coach, is versatile and can slot in either the central midfield or last

back. Although, coach Yearwood expressed his preference to have Jacobs in the midfield, he noted that the centre backs positions need strengthening and a scouting for a transfer of a good quality defender is ongoing and if not successful, Jacobs will have to fill in. Yearwood who served as assistant coach in Slingerz FC initial triumph in the Stag Elite league in 2016 stated that he knows how to win titles and that his team have what it takes to hold on for championship honours, although the league is in its infant stages. When the GFF Elite League resumes in four weeks time, Den Amstel at their home ground will clash with Fruta Conquerors, who have

Bolt secures trial with Borussia Dortmund PARIS, France (AFP) — Sprint legend Usain Bolt said Sunday that he hopes to still see his dream of becoming a professional footballer come true when he undergoes a trial at German top-flight club Borussia Dortmund. However, the multiple Olympic and world champion admitted that he would prefer to play for Manchester United, his favourite team. ”In March we’re going to do a trial with Dortmund and that will determine what I do with that career, which way it goes,” the 31year-old world record holder told the Sunday Express. ”If they say I’m good, and that I need a bit of training, I’ll do it.

”It makes me nervous. I don’t get nervous but this is different, this is football now. It’ll take time to adjust but once I play a few times I’ll get used to it.” Bolt shares the same sponsor — Puma — as Dortmund and the trial with the Bundesliga team has been arranged by the sportswear company. ”One of my biggest dreams is to sign for Manchester United. If Dortmund say I’m good enough, I’ll crack on and train hard,” said Bolt. ”I’ve spoken to (former United manager) Alex Ferguson and I told him he needs to put in a good word. He told me if I get fit and ready, he will see what he can do.”

also won both their games, in round three action. Coach Yearwood predicted a very competitive game against the National League runners up, “Our system is very difficult to defend against and based with

home advantage I know it’s going to be a super encounter but we are aiming to come out on top and add three points to our points tally.” Western Tigers head coach, Calvin “Flu” Allen have also signaled his intent

to boost his squad and hinted that some real firepower will be joining the West Ruimveldt based team. More GFF elite league transfers news will be in subsequent editions of Kaieteur Sport. (Calvin Chapman)

Yadram hits shot-filled unbeaten 37 as Windies brush aside PNG in opening warm-up LINCOLN, New Zealand, CMC – West Indies warmed up for the defence of their ICC Under-19 World Cup title by brushing aside minnows Papua New Guinea by seven wickets, in their first official warm-up match yesterday at Lincoln Green. The defending champions restricted Papua New Guinea to 105 all out in the 42nd over before racing to their target in the 23rd, to make a winning start to their campaign. Bhaskar Yadram slammed an unbeaten 37 from 23 deliveries while opener Keagan Simmons and (23) and Captain Emmanuel Stewart (21) produced patient innings in support. Earlier, choosing to bat, Papua New Guinea were undermined by left-arm spinners Jeavor Royal (2-4) and Ashmead Nedd (2-10), along with off-spinner Alick Athanaze (2-15) picked up two wickets each.

Opener Igo Mahuru topscored with 22 while Ovia Sam chipped in with 21, combining in the best stand of the innings by adding 28 for the third wicket. Royal claimed Mahuru and Athanaze accounted for Sam as Papua New Guinea slipped to 70 for eight in the 32nd over – a position from which they never recovered. In their run chase, West Indies Under-19s suffered an early setback when the freescoring Kimani Melius was lbw to left-arm swing bowler James Tau off the fifth ball of the innings without scoring. However, Simmons struck two fours in a 43-ball knock and Stewart, three boundaries in a 53-ball innings, rebuilding the innings patiently in a 52-run, second wicket stand before Simmons was run out. When Stewart was stumped off off-spinner Boge Arua in the 16th over at 77-3, Yadram arrived to dominate

the remainder of the innings in two small but handy partnerships. He slammed five fours and two sixes, driving stands of 24 for the third wicket with Simmons and 29 for the fourth wicket with Cephas Cooper, who finished 11 not out. West Indies Under-19s take on Zimbabwe Under-19s in their second official warmup on tomorrow at the same venue here, before opening their Group ‘A’ preliminary campaign with a tough clash with hosts New Zealand in Mount Maunganui on January 13. Scores: PNG U-19s 105 all out off 41.1 overs (Igo Mahuru 22, Ovia Sam 21; Jeavor Royal 2-4, Ashmeade Nedd 2-10, Alick Athanaze 215). WINDIES U-19s 106 for three off 22.3 overs (Bhaskar Yadram 37 not out, Keagan Simmons 23, Emmanuel Stewart 21).

Tuesday January 09, 2018

Kaieteur News

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Guyana’s Lionel Dandrade wins 5th Despite title win Jaguars team Manager says they want to finish unbeaten Bigi Broki Wacka 10k Bridge Race G u y a n a ’s r e g i o n a l success in athletics has shot off to an early start after Trinidad & Tobago based Guyanese Lionel Dandrade won Suriname’s Bigi Broki Wacka 10km bridge race on Sunday last. Out of a total of 389 participants, Dandrade’s finished in front the pack with a time of 38minutes 19seconds. This was the 38-year-old Dandrade’s fifth win in this annual event after participating in the competition for the past decade, finishing second a few times to the likes of former National Champions, Cleveland Forde, Cleveland Thomas and Kelvin Johnson. In fact, after winning the race in 2016, Dandrade was fifth to the finish line last year but he bounced back to win the race last weekend which wasn’t subscribed by the likes of the Cleveland’s (Forde & Thomas) and Kelvin Johnson. In an invited comment, Dandrade explained to Kaieteur Sport that in his 10-year experience in the Bigi Broki Wacka bridge race, “It’s always a tough race despite my successes and I’m a bit

Shiv Chanderpaul has playing a big role on and off the field.

Lionel Dandrade

tight right now.” Dandrade participation in the Dutch nation’s road race was made possible by his sponsor, Builders Lumber Yard. The T&T based Guyanese athlete posited to Kaieteur Sport that the reason he migrated

was because of the limited amount of competition locally as opposed to the twin island republic’s almost weekly competitions that sometimes see as much as eight competitive races a day.

Dustin Johnson wins Tournament of Champions in Hawaii by eight shots

Johnson made a fast start to 2017 too, winning three events in a row before injuring himself just before the Masters. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - World number one Dustin Johnson surged to an eight-shot victory at the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii. The American, 33, who led after three rounds, fired an eight-under 65 to cruise to the title, with Spain’s Jon Rahm a distant second after a 69. Johnson followed rounds of 69, 68 and 66 by making four birdies on the

front nine then eagled the par-four 12th. American Brian Harman finished third on 15 under while Open champion Jordan Spieth was a further three shots back. Australian Marc Leishman, who was the joint leader at the halfway stage but carded a 76 on Saturday, finished tied seventh on 13 under in the 34-man field.

By Sean Devers In the history of Regional sponsored First-Class cricket which began in 1966 with the Shell Shield, only Jamaica has won the title on more consecutive occasions than the Guyana Jaguars. I r o n i c a l l y, i t w a s Jamaica, with five titles in a row (2008-2012) that Guyana defeated in Kingston on Saturday last with a day to spare to be assured of a fourth title with two games still to play. Barbados, who has the most First-Class titles (21) but none since 2013, have also won four consecutive titles from 19771980. But for Head Coach Esuan Crandon and his Assistant Rayon Griffith who doubles as Manager, there will be no letting up from the Guyana Jaguars. Although Jaguars have already won the title, the team practiced on Sunday before leaving for Barbados yesterday for their penultimate game which starts on Thursday. “Want to continue our good habits, we want to win, we don’t want to take anybody lightly, we don’t want to be defeated, we want to come through this tournament undefeated,” said an elated Griffith. The 38-year-old Griffith informed that everyone is happy and that the mood in their squad is great following Saturday’s victory.

Leon Johnson has been a great Captain for the past four years. “Saturday’s win against Jamaica in their backyard left the guys in high spirits, full of confidence and pumped for Barbados,” Griffith said. “My biggest satisfaction is to see the young players put their hands up…young Hemraj played very decent throughout the tournament but what I would like is to see

is him carrying on get bigger scores instead of 30s and 40s I want to see him get big fifties and hundreds…. Kemo Paul is just 19 as is (Sherfane) Rutherford who is not here but he will be back in the squad to replace Keon Joseph,” stated Griffith. Joseph, the spearhead of (Continued on page 28)

rt o p S

GTT/Pulse Launch Mash Fitness Camp Promises to take the road by storm with spectacular Amazon Gem Costumes P.27

Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture Dr. George Norton (front row center) getting limber with some waist movements after declaring open the GTT/Pulse Mash Fitness Camp yesterday. (Franklin Wilson photo)

Yadram hits shot-filled P.30 unbeaten 37 as Windies brushaside PNG in opening warm-up

Australia romp to victory and 4-0 Ashes triumph P.26

Australia’s captain Steven Smith was presented with the replica Ashes urn ŠGetty Images Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.