Kaieteur News

Saturday Edition

Online readership yesterday 122,125

January 10, 2015 - Vol. 9 No. 02 - Price $80 kaieteurnews@yahoo.com Website:http://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Attack on Press freedom...

Glaring similarities between Paris - Dr. Clive magazine and Kaieteur News Thomas Paris massacre…

Executioners’ run comes to a bloody end DEAD

$3.6B Hope Canal Project was- Dr.never Rupert necessary Roopnaraine

RUNNING TO SAFETY: Police escort seven hostages freed from the kosher grocers, including one woman who had to be carried

DEAD

DEAD

STILL AT LARGE

India bestows Pres. Ramotar with Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award

Another plane damaged while landing on Hinterland airstrip

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Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

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$3.6B Hope Canal Project was never necessary

W

hile there e x i s t s , c u r r e n t l y, some degree of confusion surrounding the possible cost over runs for the $3.6B Hope Canal Project on government’s part, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s Shadow Minister of Natural Resources and Agriculture, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, asserted yesterday that the venture has only been an unnecessary extravagance from its inception.

Dr. Roopnaraine made

this comment yesterday at the latest press conference of the APNU. The politician was asked to comment not only on the uncertainties and the cost over runs but also on the length of time the project is taking to be completed. The project has missed five deadlines.

He said that it is the belief of APNU that the project is not essential because it does not address what is needed by the conservancy. Dr. Roopnaraine said that what the nation needs is proper

- Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine outlets for the Demerara River and improved internal arrangements for the Conservancy improved.

“Instead, we have this elaborate canal and no idea how government will maintain it given its record. I cross the Hope Bridge daily and I look everyday and I see that activity is taking place there. My own feeling is that now that they sorted out the wrench and the final sluice is in readiness we anticipate

that it would finish soon but it has been an extravagance from then to now.

“I’d be surprised if there aren’t cost overruns.”

Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, was recently asked if there are major costs overruns on the Project. He said that, “The macro structure is completed. There is some associated work to be completed but there are no cost overruns.”

Another plane damaged while landing on Hinterland airstrip

This Trans Guyana plane reportedly landed hard on Matthews Ridge, Region One airstrip

P

assengers on a Tr a n s G u y a n a Airways flight are thanking their lucky stars after poor weather caused the plane to land hard at the Matthews Ridge airstrip in Region One. The plane, according to Kit Nascimento, a spokesman for the company,

sustained damage and will be unable to fly until repairs are conducted.

The Cessna Grand Caravan, bearing registration 8R-GAB, left Ogle, to arrive at the Matthews Ridge airstrip at 08:28hrs. In it were 12 adult passengers and two infants.

The weather was bad with

visibility poor.

The plane had a hard landing and the left wing was damaged. There also appeared to be damage to the undercarriage of the aircraft.

There were no injuries reported. According to Nascimento, a team of officials from the company and investigators from the

Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) were scheduled to leave but bad weather caused the flight to the Region One area to be postponed.

The plane will have to be left there until repairs are conclued and deemed airworthy before it takes to the skies again.

Guyana delegation to India

The Guyana delegation to India from left: Irfaan Ali, Brian Tiwarie, Pres. Ramotar, First Lady Deolatchmie Ramotar, Elisabeth Harper and Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop

He had said that the associated work has to do with backfilling and operator building for the project.

Commenting on the failed deadlines, Dr Ramsammy retorted that Courtney Benn, one of the contractors on the project, requested an extension. He added that the quality of work thus far is “excellent.”

The eight-gate sluice to release the water into the Atlantic is being constructed

by Courtney Benn Construction.

He had also stated that the Ministry was faced with two decisions, either terminate the contract which would have caused more extensive delays and cost overruns or choose to the route of extension of the

deadline at “no cost.”

But Dr. Luncheon who was recently asked about whether Cabinet was updated on the reasons for the delays of the project and the likelihood of cost overruns, said that he is aware that the project is on its sixth deadline, and that a series of “ponderables” delayed it.

He said that Government is now looking at a 2015 second quarter deadline and “of course there are cost overruns.”

Dr. Luncheon said, though, that he would not be able to qualify the overruns sustained. They would be calculated when the project is finished and the defects liability is invoked, he added.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Where your views make the news

Letters... Where your views make the news

Missing in the sky - Do or Die! DEAR EDITOR, I am no pilot or aviation enthusiast, just a mere earthling trying to find answers to things that fell from above to Earth beneath.

Here we are in our twelfth day searching for the missing aircraft, pilot and cargo handler. The vanishing of planes without trace is nothing new, but the current investigation is surrounded by some confusion and shrouded chaos.

On the Aviation Safety Network, an exclusive service of the Flight Safety Foundation, the information states that first flight of the said missing plane Britten Norman Islander BN-2A-6 took place in 1971. If this stands correct then that is some forty-three years ago. In addition, the distance from Mahdia to Karisparu as the crow flies is 52 km (32 miles).

Facts are: The Cessna Britten Norman Islander took off from Mahdia at 15:42 UTC (11:42 local time) on a routine local cargo flight and the last known position was Spot Tracker hit at 15:44 UTC (11:44 local time). The aircraft was estimated to arrive at Karisparu at 16:00 UTC (12:00 local time). It is clear to even the most mathematically simplistic that the journey from point A-Point B would be only an eighteenminute duration.

At 16:20 UTC, now twenty minutes later than the expected arrival time, Timehri Air Traffic Control made contact with the aircraft operator to establish whether the aircraft landed, before implementing a search and rescue operation.

Does Karisparu not carry any control tower or air traffic personnel?

After no information was received, the Air Traffic Control commenced the ‘alert phase’ and the Rescue Coordination Centre at the Timehri Control Tower was activated.

Prominent aviator, Captain Gerry Gouveia said that the disappearance of the Air Services Limited aircraft is baffling; despite acknowledging that the area the plane was operating in is one of the most hostile jungle

and mountainous areas in Guyana. Gouveia said this is the worst possible area to operate regularly, much less having to conduct a search and rescue operation.

If all that has been known and said holds any degree of truth, then what measures were put in place aforehand in the event of a plane disaster such as this one. Hindsight is 20/20 or better translated blindsight 2=0/ 2=0.

Sources have said that overloading of the plane when it took off from Mahdia may have been a possibility. The reliability of these sources of information are somewhat questionable, as they kept silent on knowledge of such a sensitive nature, that may now be viewed as the contributory factor in the crash.

On whom, and with whom did the onus lie for ensuring that the plane did not exceed its expected load allowance?

Was the pilot aware of any excess weight? Who verifies a plane’s load and balance sheet? It was reported that the aircraft can carry up to 1500 pounds.

It should not be forgotten that last July, a Britten Norman Islander plane of similar genre crashed while landing at the Monkey Mountain airstrip in the interior. What were the findings? Were these made available, and if so to whom?

Were there any recommendations geared at preventing future crashes?

Transport Minister Robeson Benn at a specially convened press conference disclosed that the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) at Timehri Control Tower has been in constant contact with their Surinamese counterparts and those from the United States Mission Coordination Centre as the search continues for the missing Britten Norman Islander aircraft.

Benn added that the

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rescue aspect of the mission has passed and the mission has now gone into recovery mode, noting that the search will continue.

They are also looking at several other factors including the failure of the pilot to call in ‘May Day’ which is a distress call which can be easily picked up by aircraft around the area. At this point in time, there is no report of such a call being received. Some concern surrounds the reason why the pilot, a veteran flyer would neglect to give a distress signal. Were there other simultaneous goingson? Or did the inability to see the sky render the pilot unable to safely fly?

My profound sympathy goes out to the grieving families. However, it is my sincere wish that whenever the plane is found on the ground, that a thorough investigation be conducted, with the primary goal being a non-recurrence, and consideration be given to Guyanese authorities acquiring vehicles and devices suitable for searches in jungle and mountainous areas, rather than soliciting help from other countries.

The search and rescue party is focusing on where could the plane be? With the fullness of time and effort all the answers we’ll see.

Yvonne Sam

We need to be aware of attempts to further erode our inalienable rights DEAR EDITOR, “They can kill my body but they cannot kill my dream”. That was the poignant assertion by Ms Malala Yousafzai, the iconic teenager who defied her countrymen to the point of risking her own life in the pursuit of her dream for universal ‘Girl’s education’.

Her firm and persistent resolve in her active campaigns as a human rights advocate in the face of entrenched opposition from diehards in her country earned her the respect of the world and, among other acclamations, the Nobel Prize for Peace.

Malala’s courageous actions

and profound statements such as the one above resonate with similar ones associated with ‘change agents’ in the past as well as many in our contemporary world. However, this week’s senseless shooting spree in Paris aimed at curtailing ‘freedom of expression’ reminds us of the fact that our world still has many other obstacles to overcome.

Right here in Guyana we are not insulated from the machinations of powerful forces that appear hell-bent on destroying the foundations of freedom and thwarting the dreams of decent, law-abiding, forwardlooking and progressive citizens. Witness for example

the widespread indulgence in illegal, inexplicable enrichment, covert attempts to silence free expressions of thought and to curtail legitimate actions aimed at preventing further drifts away from the fundamental freedoms associated with a truly democratic society.

Clearly, all Guyanese need to be aware of overt and insidious attempts to further erode our inalienable rights and to take advantage of all current and future opportunities to safeguard our freedoms in order that our dreams for a better life can be realized.

Nowrang Persaud

From page 4 help from Diane and her able assistants, it is very likely the six wild otters would have killed the younger otter with the wounded leg being cured

by Diane.

It was an enlightening experience being so close to Mother Nature and her children. It made me realize there is a lot of violence in Mother Nature’s family, but somehow survival of the fittest in the animal kingdom seems more acceptable than man-made aggression against animals.

On January 2nd we returned to life in the city and before even reaching

Georgetown I was reminded of man’s mistreatment of animals. Along the East Bank Road, just before Gafoor’s, Land of Cannan, we passed a young man selling Iguanas.

Editor, it was a horrible sight, several pairs of Iguanas hanging belly up with neck and feet tied to a stick; a little further on the same sight, with more Iguanas all tied up and dangling from a branch.

These Iguanas are tied up for long periods of time. If there are no laws preventing the sale of Iguanas there must at least be some sort of regulation to protect Iguanas from inhumane treatment. This

sight reminded me of a German tourist recently telling me she would never return to Guyana because of the way wildlife and domestic animals are mistreated.

I am therefore calling on the wildlife authority, the tourism authority, and anyone else with authority, to start enforcing laws or regulations intended to help put a stop to the inhumane way iguanas and other animals sold commercially are marketed.

I implore that Irfaan Ali, Hon. Minister of Tourism, use his good offices to put an end to animal suffering.

Syeada Manbodh

Survival of Fittest versus Mistreatment...

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Health Ministry, There is no need for a Conservatory GPHC collaborate to Order - state lawyers host VIA outreaches Finance Minister’s spending of unapproved monies...

Lawyers representing the State yesterday argued that there is no need for a Conservatory Order being sought against the State by Opposition Leader, David Granger, in an effort to prevent Government’s spending of all monies unapproved by the National Assembly.

Granger is seeking a conservatory order to stay all spending and/or any further spending by Finance Minister Ashni Singh, or other Ministers designated by the President on programmes disapproved or not authorized by the National Assembly until the court matter has been heard and determined.

Some $36.75B was disapproved by the Opposition-controlled National Assembly. The disapproved monies included some $1.3B from Office of the President (OP) under its Administrative Services programme; $3.8B also from Office of the President for capital estimates also under Administrative Services; some $22B from Ministry of Finance; $1.1B from Ministry of Amerindian Affairs’ Development Fund; $6.78B from Ministry of Public Works capital works and $1.3B from the Ministry of Health’s Regional and Clinic.

However, the Finance Minister admitted that some $4.5B had been spent for the period ended June 16, 2014.

As such, Granger is asking the court to declare that the National Assembly, in keeping with Article 218 (2) of the Constitution, lawfully disapproved in the annual estimates of Revenue and Expenditure of 2014.

The application that was presented before Chief

Justice (Ag), Ian Chang, named Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, the Attorney General and Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman as the defendants.

In an affidavit in answer, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, had called on the court to refuse the application, with an appropriate order for costs, given that the challenge is wholly misconceived and erroneous in law.

Yesterday, in his submissions before the Chief Justice, Nandlall largely concentrated on procedural deficiencies which he claimed afflicted the proceedings which were filed. The Attorney General, (AG) submitted that a Conservatory Order shouldn’t be granted since there has been no violation of the fundamental rights of the citizenry.

The AG held that a Conservatory Order is a special type of order which should be granted when there is an allegation that there is violation of the fundamental rights of the citizenry.

“In this action there is no allegation that anyone’s fundamental right has been contravened. In fact, this is not a case that concerns fundamental rights. The wide amplitude of remedies and powers which a court would normally have in an action in which a citizen would have in a case of the breach of fundamental rights, are not available in this type of proceeding,” Nandlall told the media yesterday.

The AG further noted that the Minister of Finance has been misnamed in the

proceedings. “The State Liabilities Act clearly says that all proceedings against the State should be brought against the AG.” Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman is also named as respondent in the matter, which Nandlall says is yet another example of a party who has been wrongfully named.

“Why is the Speaker named as party in the application? Is Mr. David Granger saying that the Speaker is spending money unlawfully? Why is he dragged to court? I made submissions to that effect even though I am not appearing for the Speaker because the Speaker has been wrongfully brought to the court. Why is he even named as a party?

Attorney -at- Law, Basil Williams, who is representing the Opposition Leader in the matter, maintains that the actions of the Minister clearly indicated a breach of principles and doctrines of a system of separation of powers. Williams reiterated that the Minister had admitted to spending the unapproved monies. “He brought a statement of excess to Parliament which we refused to pass,” the lawyer added.

The Attorney General had described the court action as a misconceived badly taught out strategy.

“I think the case was filed as an afterthought because it seeks to restrain spending when the spending would have been almost completed.

The case was filed at the end 2014 to prevent spending in 2014,” Nandlall had said.

However, Williams dismissed claims that the matter expired at the end of 2014 as “nonsense.” He said that the action is necessary since the Government can

Attorney General Anil Nandlall only spend for the first four months of 2015 based on 1/ 12 of that which was appropriated in 2014. “’It must be relevant …if you have done something illegally in 2014 does it become legal because the year ended?” Williams questioned.

He further explained that the Finance Minister cannot be wrongly named as a respondent because the constitution refers to him as an integral part of the proceeding. Williams added that the Speaker of the National Assembly is named as a relevant and interested party in the matter since he is in charge of the Parliament.

He said, “Whilst the government coffers will be affected, a Conservatory Order is a necessary device to maintain the status quo, because in the case of a substantive action we won’t have any money in the coffers anymore.”

When the matter resumes Wednesday, the Attorneys are scheduled to address the constitutional aspects of the matter; they will make on whether the Minister of Finance had acted unconstitutionally by spending the unapproved monies.

Reiterating the need for women between the ages of 25 and 49 to ensure that they are screened as soon as possible, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) yesterday announced plans for a series of outreaches aimed at promoting Visual Inspection Using Acetic Acid (VIA) testing.

GPHC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, is gearing to undertake the initiative, which will focus primarily on women who are sexually active, to commemorate Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.

In a statement issued yesterday, the GPHC said that it will be hosting several outreach programmes in an effort to encourage women to get screened for cervical cancer.

Over the years both the GPHC and the Health Ministry have held a number of similar programmes which entailed employees performing VIA testing on location where such outreaches were held.

These services have seen many seeking to be tested and this year a similar situation is expected.

Medex of the VIA Clinic at the GPHC, Lorlene Ramsundar, has disclosed that this year organisations with more women will be targeted. She said that such places include Transport and Harbours Department, Lifeline Ministries, Restoration Ministries and several others.

She stressed that VIA testing is a very simple procedure which is pain free and at no cost to those being tested.

She went on to explain that “We apply vinegar to the mouth of the cervix, and after one minute the person would have the result which will determine if they have to get treated or if we need to run more tests or if they do not require treatment.”

The medex emphasized too that early detection is vital and encouraged persons between the ages of 25 and 49 who are sexually active in particular to get screened as soon as possible, especially if they have never been tested.

Medex of the VIA Clinic at GPHC, Lorlene Ramsundar Ramsundar underscored that getting screened can in fact help to save the lives of many and noted that from 2009 to present the VIA Clinic has detected numerous cervical cancer cases most of which were successfully treated.

According to her, the feedback from women who were screened and treated thus far has been very positive. She had informed too that persons have lauded both GPHC and the Ministry of Health for providing such services to them which they may not have been able to afford otherwise.

She said, “We have been encouraging women who come, to tell others to come and get checked and the response has been overwhelming.”

The medex further highlighted that more and more women are recognising the importance of getting themselves tested but stated that more education programmes on television and radio would be useful for women who may not know the importance of getting a VIA test done.

Cervical cancer ranks as the main type of cancer diagnosed and reported in Guyanese females hence key emphasis has been placed on combating the disease. It is largely preventable due to cervical screening and the HPV vaccination.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

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Trinidad warns of major budget cuts amid drop in oil prices P O R T- O F - S PA I N , Trinidad (AP) — Trinidad & Tobago’s prime minister warned late Thursday of major cuts in expenditures following a sharp drop in oil prices that has forced the government of the wealthy twin-island nation to reduce its projected revenue this year.

Trinidad expected to earn $80 per barrel of oil but has revised that to $45 per barrel, Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar said in a televised address. The government has subsequently reduced expenditures by $7 million, and more cuts are expected.

The country is a major fuel supplier for the U.S. and other nations thanks to oil and natural gas reserves that make it among the most prosperous in the Caribbean. Oil and gas make up about 40

Kamla PersadBissessar percent of the island’s GDP and 80 percent of exports, with Trinidad having one of highest per capita incomes in Latin America.

Falling energy prices have

led to a $1.18 billion deficit, Persad-Bissessar said, adding that the government plans to help close the gap by selling 49 percent of government shares in a stateowned, gas-processing company. Persad-Bissessar pledged to uphold social welfare programmes, among other things.

“We shall also ensure that the pace of business activity continues to protect jobs and personal incomes, and to continue with critical infrastructure projects such as roads and to support education and health,” she said.

The drop in oil prices has had at least one positive effect in Trinidad: the government expects to save $235 million on a subsidy it pays oil companies so local consumers can buy cheaper gasoline.

CARICOM wants to use Chinese funds for debt restructuring BEIJING, China - CMC – Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries want to use a the three billion US dollar concessionary facility announced by China last year for debt restructuring and refinancing among other initiatives, CARICOM Chairman Perry Christie has said.

Christie, who is also the Prime Minister of the Bahamas, was addressing the inaugural Ministerial meeting of the China-Community of Latin American and Caribbean States Forum (ChinaCELAC) that ends here yesterday.

On his first ever visit to the Caribbean last July, Chinese President Xi Jingping said that the financing facility would be made available to the eight CARICOM countries that have diplomatic relations with Beijing.

China’s Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago Hung Caio Ming said then, “I believe that this type of concessional loan is something that will be increased in …the future”.

Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said the facility comes at a time when “the Caribbean and indeed the world is challenged with all sorts of economic and fiscal issues.”

As he addressed the meeting here, Prime Minister Christie said while welcoming the three billion US dollar commitment “we will be raising at the conference the proposal to use this funding for budget support, as well as debt restructuring and refinancing”.

Prime Minister Christie said that in addition, given that energy, water, sanitation,

Perry Christie coastal protection, and protection of critical coastal infrastructure are central to the capacity of CARICOM countries, all efforts must be considered to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

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THE PPP AND PRESS FREEDOM The PPP can and should be excused. It does not know better and therefore cannot be expected to have offered any other explanation than the one it has offered in relation to press freedom in Guyana.

The PPP idea of press freedom is liberalization. That is how it has defended its record of press freedom: by pointing to the fact that the mass media in Guyana is liberalized.

The PPP is dealing with numbers, small numbers, and vacuous statistics. The PPP would have us believe that the State has a minority presence in the mass media. It throws out the number of private

newspapers, the number of private television stations and the number of private radio stations as evidence of its liberalization of the mass media. And then it translates this liberalization into respect for press freedom.

It has not told the whole story. In fact, the PPP statistics tell very little of the narrative of the media in Guyana.

It does not, for example, indicate that most of the private television stations that existed prior to 2011 were given their licenses not under the PPP but under the PNC, and that was more than twenty years ago.

Prior to 2011, the PPP refused to grant new radio and television licenses arguing that there was a need for legislation to be put in place.

Even after the Court of Appeal ordered that the government consider applications for licenses, the government continued to move at a snail’s pace with these applications. When it did consider licenses for radio it handed these out to its friends and cronies with only a few private individuals being granted licenses for what amounts to village radio stations. The greater transmission reach was handed to

Dem boys seh...

Jagdeo holding de boss man hand Old Year’s Night is when a lot of people have fun or choose to welcome de new year in different ways. Some does go to church, some use to go to church, like Brassington, but nuff people does choose to go and party.

De boss man fuh de Waterfalls paper been to Pegasus, had a good time, then go to Palm Court. He and dem boys meet Jagdeo, Ramotar, Irfaat, Bee Kay and nuff others. Dem meet Manny, who own de place.

Jagdeo, Ramotar and de others see dem boys. Bee Kay choke and Irfaat pointing finger all de time saying how de Waterfalls boss man got he feeling uncomfortable.

Jagdeo tell him don’t worry, that de year near done and dem boys gun lef dem in peace.

De boss man hear he and seh, “I am not leaving you guys in 2014. So pack your traps, grab my hands. We are going to 2015 together. We

ain’t leffing you-all behind.

Donald realize wha was happening and he decide that he don’t want no part of this. So he lef and go to Sleep Inn. De boss man lef fuh go in de urinal. Jagdeo get up and go behind him. He couldn’t wait fuh tek de boss man hand and walk into 2015.

But de boss man know and Jagdeo know that you can’t control how some people will treat you or what they may say about you.

But dem boys seh that you can control how dem react to you.

Good friends care for each other, not that de boss man and Jagdeo is good friends; close friends understand each other—well nobody ain’t understand Donald Duck—but true friends stay forever—beyond words, beyond distance and beyond time.

Talk half and remember true friends.

friends and cronies of the government. Liberalization was perverted to hand out the better licenses to its friends and cronies.

These additional licenses now make it seem as if the State has a minority presence in the mass media. But this is far from the truth in a small country like Guyana.

In such a small country and with liberalization only coming late in the day, state advertisements for example is very important to the survival of the mass media.

And these ads, as is well known, have been selectively distributed favouring those media houses that are perceived as being close to the government.

For all the boast about press freedom, the PPP is yet to offer a justification for denying this newspaper state ads during the first ten years of its existence. But another newspaper aligned to the PPP was able to get state ads less than a few years after it was formed.

It was only after this new newspaper was established that the PPP reversed its policy-based on a sound economic rationale--of withhold-

ing ads from the Stabroek News. It is widely believed that the only reason this policy was reversed was so that the new newspaper could benefit from state ads, something that its circulation did not justify.

The PPP believes that it is smart and everybody else is stupid. The people however were never fooled by the PPP. Liberalization of the media in Guyana cannot be translated to press freedom. Indeed it can be forcibly and convincingly argued that liberalization has effectively been used to pervert press freedom by denying licenses to deserving recipients.

The State may be a numerically a minority presence in the mass media but the government now has access to almost every home in Guyana through its policies of favouring its friends and cronies in the media and through the granting of cable licenses.

The government can dictate what you see not just because of the reach of the State media but because of the reach of its friends and cronies that now have broadcast licenses, including cable.

The government can suf-

focate the media by withholding ads. It tried that with Kaieteur News. However, Glenn Lall was determined to wean his newspaper off of dependency on the government. And so he neutralized the discriminatory policy of the placement of state ads.

Unable to financially cripple the Kaieteur News, the PPP has now resorted to the most despicable methods against the Kaieteur News, including threats and intimidation.

The PPP has gone after this newspaper and its publisher. They are out to silence Kaieteur News. By this singular conspiracy, the PPP has demonstrated that what exists in Guyana today is a tyranny against the media.

Let the world know that the party of Cheddi Jagan is a ruthless oppressor against press freedom.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

What is inside the mind of a man, 31 years of age that he can get annoyed with a person double his age over a disagreement on religion and walk into the sixty-year-old gentleman’s office and shoot him with a machine gun?

Such a person cannot be human.

So couldn’t he slap the elderly man (the method of some members of the ruling Guyanese cabal)? He could have destroyed the printing equipment. He could have called him out for a fight knowing that he was physically superior. He had to shoot him at his desk?

For Muslim terrorists to run into a media house and shoot 12 unarmed media workers and in doing so re-

cite the name of Prophet Mohamed, meaning they acknowledged that they were doing so in the name of God can only mean one thing, and that is the one thing civilization must always be aware of and act accordingly – the line that separates humans from vicious lower animals is extremely thin and getting thinner. Civilization is thousands of years old.

Buddha, an enlightened human, lived more than three thousand years ago. Yet three thousand years after Buddha, a man in Norway, takes a gun, goes to a youth camp and shoots to death some 69 teenagers after he had murdered eight persons before. But that is not all. The rest of this story in Norway tells a tragic tale of

the loss of the meaning of life somewhere along the line as civilization grew older over those thousands of years.

This man was sentenced to 21 years after a plea of guilty for killing 77 people.

That number actually came out of the mouth of a judge.

In prison he has applied to university and got accepted.

Recently this man wrote a letter to some of the most respected media houses in the world, and to some of the most important international institutions in Europe complaining about mistreatment in prison.

A mass murderer who killed seventy-seven people actually knows the difference between wrong and right and has complained to the world

about mistreatment. He can recognize mistreatment but not murder. There is more about this man and his country that makes you want to think that 21st century civilization may be in trouble.

In that letter he expresses no remorse for killing seventyseven people. And the prison officials actually sent off his letter. Soon after the mass murder, Norway had a general election, and the party the 69 teenagers came from lost. The mass murderer’s action was against that particular party that was in government at the time of the shooting. Some of the survivors were candidates in the poll yet no sympathy was shown to them, they lost.

Amazingly, Norway is listed as one of the world’s best countries to live in. Why would one want to live in a country where survivors of a

mass shooting could be rejected at the polls and the mass murderer is allowed to do university studies? The vice-chancellor of the university defended the murderer’s right to seek education. In my opinion, civilization has left Norway. I don’t want to even hear about that country.

Muslim terrorists murdered 12 innocent media personnel in France and have done so in the name of religion. Where is civilization in the 21st century going?

One of the great values in studying philosophy is that it gives you enormous insights into understanding the fault lines of the Human Condition. The work of Arthur Koestler on this subject is very instructive.

When you read Koestler then you know the Holocaust can happen again. The Holocaust happened four times since Nazi Germany was defeated – Cambodia, 1978; West Pakistan, 1972; and in Bosnia and Rwanda. Who would have thought that after the genocides of slavery, the Holocaust and the Armenians in the World War One that we would have had four occasions of genocide?

Frederick Kissoon The rise of terrorism in ISIS and Muslim fanatics like the men who murdered twelve media workers at a French magazine are dangerous signals that the fault lines of the Human Condition are showing their faces and threatening the very existence of civilization.

How does one account for the rise of ISIS and these Muslim fanatics? It is not that these people are advancing a cause. It is that they are glorifying barbarism. These people see the worst form of cruelty as a religious duty.

The most worrying aspect of the rise of this global insanity is its infected wings. The ISIS morbidity is spreading.

Trinidad has produced some of them. Can Guyana follow suit? Time for Guyana to be on its guard.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

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Over 1,300 Berbicians caught stealing electricity in 2014 - GPL

By Leon Suseran Over 1,300 Berbicians were caught by the Guyana Power & Light Inc. (GPL) stealing electricity last year.

Most of them were placed before the courts, said Loss Reduction Manager, Mr. Phyalyanjee Nandkumar, at the company’s Berbice office.

Tampering with meters; bypassing the network and illegal diversions were just a few methods that Berbicians used to steal electricity. Over 350 cases alone dealt with tampering of meters, he added.

Once you are caught stealing electricity, you are arrested.

The majority of the cases had persons receiving a noncustodial sentence; some were given a suspended sentence. However, if they commit any other crime in the future, they would head straight to prison for one year.

Numerous large companies, too, were caught stealing electricity in Berbice last year. Nandkumar said that these companies were prosecuted and back- billed.

“If they don’t pay, no power, and the penalty now is high for electricity theft.”

Currently, the penalty for stealing electricity is one year imprisonment and a minimum of $500,000 fine. Nandkumar also said that the company won a lot of the cases that were brought before the courts. Many others were dismissed due to perpetrators not attending court. “They leave the location....so those cases (were) lost.”

The official noted that arrest warrants have been issued for several persons caught stealing electricity and who seem to be eluding the law. “They can be picked up anytime; never mind the case is struck out...The arrest warrant is still valid, because you didn’t attend court.”

He did state, though, that the court process is a bit slow.

It is not dealing with the defaulters in the expeditious manner it should. “But we hope to improve it in 2015.”

The Loss Reduction Manager also said that customers are inventing newer methods of stealing electricity. They are also coming up with ways to steal electricity from the pre- paid metering system and GPL is working to improve that situation, he added.

The company is looking

carefully at customers who have not purchased credit for electricity meters for the past two months. “And we are picking up a lot of straight connections- Probably the crew did it and it’s not in the system. But we would back-bill (the user) and charge them.”

“Probably, customers run out of credit; they get somebody to give them a straight connection, so the system picks it up that this customer did not buy credit for two or three months....so we remove the meter and back-bill them because it’s a bypass.”

Nandkumar is urging prepaid customers to not let credit run out, because they are saving themselves money as well as inconvenience. If a pre- paid customer runs out of credit, the meter will shut down and a fee of $12,000 would be charged to re-activate the meter. “When the credit finishes, it (the meter) shuts down- there’s a process to link the meter back,” he stated.

If tenants wish to move out of buildings, he urged landlords to not let tenants leave with the meter. “The meter can’t work, because there is not another keypad to synchronize ...the landlord and tenant should sort it outthe keypad can remain on the building in case someone else wants to rent the building.”

He noted, too, that if a meter is found to be tampered with, an instrument is used to test the meter for accuracy. If over 90 per cent of accuracy is found on the meter, the customer will not be prosecuted, “but the ones below 90 per cent (accuracy), we arrest, back bill and prosecute.”

As long as customers are found with a bypass, they are automatically arrested and prosecuted.

Nationally, the losses from stealing electricity from the power grid he said, is 31 per cent. The company, he said, loses over $2B in electricity theft on an annual basis.

Nandkumar described 2014 as a “very good year” for loss reduction in East and West Berbice.

The widespread campaign to unearth illegal connections helped the company to reduce its losses, he stated.

Angoy’s Avenue, one of Guyana’s largest squatter settlements, with over 4,000 residents, had the largest amount of electricity theft in

Berbice, with over 99 per cent of customers stealing current.

However, this amount has been reduced to 90 per cent, with the ongoing electrification drive in that housing scheme. The figure will reduce further, he noted.

Those illegal connections were removed by the company’s loss reduction teams which were accompanied by police officers.

“As we find our illegal connections, the police work with us and we do our prosecutions and arrests,” he revealed. “My staff is working and they are supportive,” he mentioned.

He cautioned customers to not allow any sort of

corruption, in terms of bribing GPL crew members into establishing illegal connections on their premises. “ Nandkumar therefore urged customers in Berbice and Guyana as a whole, to stop stealing electricity and also report these cases promptly.

“Now when your neighbour is stealing electricity, it’s like you are paying for them; because a lot of people are complaining that their neighbours are stealing (electricity) while their bills are high.”

“We are working furiously and we want to reduce these losses to zero.

If it happens, it will be

excellent for Guyana and GPL, because at the end of the day, when customers steal, the State loses and taxpayers lose too,” he added.

While the electricity theft crew needs a bit more resources, the official said that the company is doing the best it could to eradicate electricity theft in Berbice.

“We know fuel prices are down, but the costs are still high because we buy fuel at high prices...so stop stealing and probably one day, your bills will go down- support our drive to stop electricity theft.

If you know your neighbour is stealing, please report to us and it would be confidential.”

Mr. Phyalyanjee Nandkumar

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Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

Attack on press freedom…

Glaring similarities between Paris magazine and Kaieteur News - Dr. Thomas Executive member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Professor emeritus, Clive Thomas, has said that there is a striking but scary resemblance between the recent attack on press freedom in Paris and that which is happening in Guyana.

On Wednesday last, three French nationals violently attacked the office of Parisian satirical magazine, Charlie Hebdo, and killed 12 persons.

They have since been killed after a massive police manhunt.

The French media workers were murdered by gunmen who claimed to be Muslims acting in retaliation for cartoons the magazine published that did not find favour with them. The publication had been warned that it was treading on dangerous grounds and was

Economist, Dr. Clive Thomas asked to retract its cartoon depictions.

As a result of the threat posed, the French Government had provided police security for staffers of the magazine.

It was revealed last year

that certain high-ranking government officials and other “powerful” persons were out to destroy the newspaper at all cost.

Kaieteur News was warned last year that if it didn’t back off from doing certain investigative reporting, it would suffer a similar fate – with gunmen storming the premises and shooting indiscriminately.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, in a profanity-laced recording, was heard telling a senior reporter that “innocent people” working at Kaieteur News would be in harm’s way as a result of the types of stories the newspaper has been carrying.

But when contacted, Presidential Advisor, Gail Teixeira told Kaieteur News that the two situations cannot be compared.

“The tragedy in Paris, France is a terrorist attack,” she said.

The official added, “While Government is concerned about the safety of all journalists, the two instances cannot be compared. That was a terrorist attack. But I don’t know what you want me to say, you are fishing; you are trying to lead me …”

But Dr. Thomas said that the similarities are glaring.

The WPA official, said that Kaieteur News is a victim of state terrorism, and that he made the decision to speak out on the Nandlall issue from the beginning, as he knew

that what happened in Paris can very well happen in Guyana.

Dr. Thomas said that the fact that Kaieteur News has experienced the cold-blooded murder of five of its employees to terrorist elements and, like Charlie Hebdo, had been firebombed before, is reason to take Nandlall’s threats as serious as possible.

He said that the reason “Ms. Teixeira cannot see the similarities is because she doesn’t want to…If she admits, it will put Nandlall in a bad light. The truth is Nandlall embarrassed them.

He put them in a position that they don’t know how to get out of.”

Thomas made mention of the five Kaieteur News pressmen who were executed by gunmen in an attack on the newspaper’s printery at Eccles in August 2006. He said that this is an example of how things can get out of hand. That execution-style attack had stunned the nation and the media fraternity worldwide.

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) had in November last, called on the Guyana Government to protect Kaieteur News staff and for an investigation to be carried out in relation to Nandlall’s utterances. The body had given the government two weeks to tell them the measures that will be implemented.

But Government has

Presidential Advisor, Gail Teixeira

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall

refused to say what measures have been put in place, despite questions from this newspaper.

When asked about it in the wake of what happened in Paris, Teixeira, refrained from providing the details of Government’s response, but said that government is still communicating with the Commission on the matter.

Questioned whether the government will hasten steps to provide security for the newspaper in light of the Nandlall recording, and also taking into account the tragedy in France., the Presidential advisor retorted, “Name me one country in the world that provides personal security for journalists who are carrying out their jobs?”

Thomas said that while it is very important that the government provide security for Kaieteur News, he is more concerned about justice for what has already been done.

He said that he was very disappointed with the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP)’s decision.

As for the tragedy in France, “Black-clad gunmen shouting “Allahu Akbar!”

stormed the Paris offices of Charlie Hebdo, killing 12 persons, including its editor, three political cartoonists and a police officer, whose coldblooded murder at close range was captured on a disturbing video.

The masked shooters moved with military precision, and then escaped following the mid-morning attack on the publication known for its provocative cartoons, lampooning politicians and religions alike.

Witnesses said the attack was carried out commandostyle, with the gunmen demanding the names of those they encountered, indicating that they had specific targets in mind.

One of the dead in Wednesday’s attack was satirical cartoonist Stephane Charbonnier, the publication’s editorial director and the artist behind the caricatures that offended jihadists.

In a 2012 interview, Charbonnier famously shrugged off the threats on his life. “I would rather die standing than live on my knees,” he said.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 13

ALLEGED GANG-RAPE…

Teenager’s story yet to be confirmed T

he story told by an 18-year-old Bellevue, West Bank Demerara (WBD) man that he was drugged and gang-raped by 10 men on Old Year’s night is yet to be confirmed, according the Commander for ‘D’ Division, Ian Amsterdam.

The Commander was at the time referring to an article in yesterday’s edition of the Kaieteur News in which a male teen alleged that his friend took him to a house at Vreed en Hoop, We s t C o a s t D e m e r a r a (WCD) and drugged him.

The teenager who is in a critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) further alleged that his friend sodomized him and then organized nine of his friends to do the same.

The friend was subsequently arrested and later released on bail.

Yesterday, Amsterdam told this newspaper that while they have received information that the teen was

sodomized, a police rank is yet to visit the victim in the hospital to get a detailed statement.

“Police went to the West Demerara Hospital but they didn’t find him. They went to the GPHC and they were unable to find him too. His mother was supposed to come (yesterday) to take a police rank to the hospital,” the senior official said.

The Commander added that a medical report from a doctor at one of the medical institutions the teen visited indicates that there was some sort of sexual activity to his anus.

However, he said that they cannot confirm how many men raped the teen.

“We have to meet with the teen first because the man he said raped him is denying the allegation. We understand, too, that the teen would usually sleep by the man he is alleging raped him,” the Commander said.

According to reports, around 16:00 hrs on December 31, last, the teen left his home to attend an Old

- Divisional Commander Year’s Night party with the friend. The teen’s mother told this publication that her son did not return home later that night.

“The next day (New Year’s Day) about five o’clock in the afternoon (17:00 hrs) I get a call from my son’s friend. He said that my son would sleep by him the night and come home the next day (Friday, January 2) and I said that was okay,” the mother said.

She added that later that night (New Year’s), she received another call from her son’s friend.

“He call and tell me that he sending my son in a taxi, but my son reach home till around 11 o’clock (23:00hrs) that night. He came with a car and as soon as the car stop, he run out,” the mother of nine said.

“My son was in a terrible condition. He was scared for his life; he was nervous, his body was trembling, and I could see he was in pain.”

According to the devastated mother, at that point she did not question the teen much, since he was in too much discomfort.

She said that he later asked to use the washroom.

“I hold him up, but he couldn’t defecate. He was just shaking and he was crying out for belly pain.

When he wiped himself, there was a lot of blood on the tissue and I hold him up and put him to lie down on a

bed.” The mother said that when she questioned her son, he related the dreadful news to her.

“He said that his friend jook he with a needle, he and about nine other men rape him in a house. He said that blood spray up on the sheet, and the boys dem take off the sheet and hide it.”

She said that the teenager’s arm was swollen which seemed to indicate that he had indeed been injected.

Almost in tears, the woman said that her son told

her that the men then locked him in the house and later went back for him.

“He said that the boys took him somewhere and they were going to shoot him, but a lady see and shout, and tell him to run. He run and jump in a taxi and the car bring him home,” the mother said. At present, the teenager is not in any condition to give police a statement of what happened to him since he cannot speak and is said to be hallucinating.

Investigations are ongoing.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

APNU wants to solve challenges in mining industry

O

pposition L e a d e r, B r i g (rt’d) David G r a n g e r , expressed yesterday that his coalition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), is deeply concerned about the impact of current challenges confronting the gold and diamond mining industry, and is calling for a strategic plan that will address those issues.

At a press conference at his Hadfield Street office, Granger said that while the industry has been the country’s largest foreign currency earner for seven years, it has been affected by the sudden drop in world price for gold in 2014.

This, he said, caused a fall in production, affected declarations and earnings and led to a rise in operating costs which resulted in the closure of several operations and even the loss of hundreds of jobs.

APNU, he said, is convinced that the national economy could be significantly enhanced and the livelihood of hinterland residents and miners enriched by a more comprehensive and

collaborative approach to the industry.

The Opposition leader said that his partnership is committed to a fresh policy for the industry, one that will result in the sector being placed on a level that is comparable with other sectors of the economy and will also attract governmental support.

Granger told members of the media that he is aware of the engagements between the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE) and the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners’ Association (GGDMA).

He added that APNU is committed to the promulgation of a plan of action for the Industry which will see sustained employment, investment and development of the industry. However, for this to be effectively achieved, Brig. Granger said that a number of matters must be dealt with.

The first he addressed w a s h i n t e r l a n d infrastructure. Granger said that as his coalition has said before, there is need to have a policy that will guide the

Opposition Leader, David Granger improvement and the maintenance of aerodromes, roadways and bridges.

He noted that there are frequent fatal aviation, riverine and road accidents, delays and damage to vehicles on difficult roadways which have all increased the risk and cost of mining operations in the hinterland.

Second on his list was hinterland security. The politician reiterated his party’s intention to transfer the headquarters of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) hinterland (‘F’) division from Georgetown to Bartica

APNU Shadow Minister of Natural Resources, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine

APNU Shadow Minister of Local Government, Ronald Bulkan

and to provide the Force with adequate aircraft, all-terrain vehicles, communications equipment, river boats and additional personnel to ensure more effective lawenforcement.

As it relates to hinterland municipal administration, Granger said that his partnership has intentions to upgrade Mabaruma, Bartica, Mahdia and Lethem into townships with their own mayors and municipal councils.

He said that the APNU will pay more attention to regional development needs, such as providing regular electricity, potable water and solid waste disposal.

Granger also committed that under his administration, local government elections will also be held.

While restating his party’s unwavering support for the resolution of legitimate indigenous land rights claims in order to avoid conflict, he said that APNU is also concerned

with improving health services in the hinterland region. The last matter he alluded to involved royalties, rental rates and equipment. On this front, the Opposition Leader said that consideration will be given to the GGDMA’s proposal for the reduction of rental paid on mining properties, lowering royalty payments and the acquisition of equipment, fuel, vehicles and accessories.

Granger emphasized that consideration must also be given to the GGDMA’s proposal for the implementation of waivers or reduced tariffs on fuel and selected imported equipment required by large, small and medium-scale miners in the sector.

Lending much support to the Leader’s statements was his Shadow Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine.

The politician said that the mining industry and

operations are in effect plagued with problems and that the degeneration in some sections of the sector underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to be taken by the government.

He said that there is an inter-ministerial body that is tasked with meeting the mining association, and his understanding is that there has only been one meeting to date when there should be ongoing meetings with a specific work programme to monitor what is happening in the industry.

Dr. Roopnaraine said, too, that Guyana is supposed to be applying for membership to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), the international body that is concerned with the governance of extractive industries and deals specifically with finance and how monies are paid by foreign companies and where the monies go.

The Shadow Minister for Natural Resources said, that it really is an organization that requires a high level of governance and accountability but “Guyana has been essentially, I think, pussyfooting with membership with the EITI for a couple of years…we need to accelerate movement to attain membership.”

Shadow Minister of Local Government for the APNU, Ronald Bulkan, also shared with the media some of the complaints by miners in the sector.

Bulkan said that most of (Continued on page 23)

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 15

Page 16

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

India bestows Pres. Ramotar with Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award

P

resident Donald Ramotar received the prestigious “ P r a v a s i Bharatiya Samman Award”, yesterday. This honour is bestowed on individuals of exceptional merit, and is in appreciation of their roles in India’s growth. He was among 15 non-resident Indians (NRIs) who were honoured yesterday.

President Ramotar was honoured for his immense contribution in the field of public service and for fostering ties between India and Guyana.

The Award is conferred on an NRI, Person of Indian Origin or an organisation or institution established and run by NRIs or Persons of Indian Origin, who has made significant contribution in any one of the following fields: better understanding abroad of India, support to

President Ramotar with his medal India’s causes and concerns in a tangible way, building closer links between India,

the overseas Indian community and their country of residence, social and humanitarian causes in India or abroad, welfare of the local Indian community, and philanthropic and charitable work, eminence in one’s field or outstanding work.

The award ceremony,

held in Mahatma Mandir Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, concluded the three-day Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention which was attended by approximately 4,000 delegates from different countries.

The Convention is an initiative to connect India to its vast overseas diaspora, and bring their knowledge, expertise and skills, to a common platform. This flagship event has been coordinated by the G o v er n men t o f I n d ia, through the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA), since 2003.

PBD is celebrated on January 9, every year, to mark the contribution of the Overseas Indian Community to the development of India.

This date was chosen as the day to celebrate this occasion, in memory of Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, who returned to India from South Africa on this day in 1915, and who led India’s freedom struggle, which changed the lives of Indians forever.

These conventions

President Ramotar receives his award provide a platform to the Overseas Indian Community, allowing them to engage with the government and people of the country, as part of their ancestral history and for mutually beneficial activities.

They are also very useful

in networking among the overseas Indians, residing in various parts of the world, enabling them to share their experiences in various fields. The occasion also provides a forum for discussing key issues concerning the Indian Diaspora. (GINA)

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 17

South-South partnership fostered at Beijing Meeting A

i m e d a t promoting cooperation between the Community of Latin American and Caribbean (CELAC) Member States and China, an inaugural Ministerial Meeting held in Beijing, China, culminated yesterday.

A local delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, attended the two-day (January 8-9) meeting.

This is according to a statement issued by the Foreign Affairs Ministry yesterday, which disclosed that Minister RodriguesBirkett speaking at the historical forum, said, “We are encouraged by the potential role of the CELACChina Forum in promoting increased South-South cooperation between China and the Latin American and Caribbean region.”

She said that “the proposed areas for cooperation cover in large part our common interest, and once implemented will redound to the growth and development of our peoples.

We in Guyana see great value in the initiatives as

Guyana Delegation in China

outlined in the Cooperation Plan and embrace all opportunities afforded to be part of such collaboration.”

She also concurred with the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, that the easiest part is completed (the Cooperation Plan) and highlighted the need for the plan to be converted into workable projects which

must be implemented with alacrity so that there can be an early harvest.

The Minister also took the opportunity to mention the issue of Climate Change.

“Not to underestimate the importance of the other areas listed in the Plan, but since it is the greatest challenge of our times, I must refer to the issue of climate change.

“Guyana, as a low lying coastal developing state, together with our Caribbean colleagues, are pleased that climate change is given prominence in the Cooperation Plan, since we are very vulnerable to the impact of climate change.

Indeed several of the most vulnerable countries in the world are found in the

Caribbean. The consensus that Caribbean States must be treated differently is therefore welcomed,” asserted Minister Rodrigues-Birkett.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Mr. Wang Yi, also met with the Caribbean Ministers in a special private meeting to discuss issues of interest to the Caribbean countries visa-vis the Forum.

The CELAC-China Forum is a bi-regional mechanism intended to foster collaboration in a wide range of areas including: training of human resources; transfer of technology; infrastructure development; climate change; energy, natural resources; cultural exchanges and agriculture.

As part of this collaboration the Government of China, in collaboration with regional financial institutions will provide concessional financing for many of the projects developed within the framework of this mechanism.

The decision to develop this bi-regional mechanism was taken by the Heads of State and Government of the

region at the second CELAC Summit which was held in Havana, Cuba in January last year. Six months later the CELAC-China Forum was officially launched in Brasilia in the margins of the BRICS Summit in July, 2014.

The President of China, Xi Jinping, chaired the opening ceremony which was also attended by the His Excellency Luis Guillermo Solis, the President of Costa Rica and Pro Tempore Chair of CELAC; Perry Christie, Prime Minister of the Bahamas, and the current CARICOM representative on the CELAC Quartet; Rafael Correa, President of Ecuador and incoming Pro Tempore Chair of CELAC; and Nicolas Maduro, President of Venezuela.

The meeting which was held under the theme ‘New Platform, New Starting Point, New Opportunity Joint Efforts to Promote China-Latin America and the Caribbean Partnership of C o m p r e h e n s i v e Cooperation’, adopted three main documents: the Beijing Declaration, the Operating Rules of the Forum, and The 2015-2019 Plan of Action.

Page 18

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

Drivers charged in Little Diamond, Cemetery Road deaths

T

wo drivers, hauled before the courts to face charges in relation to two fatal accidents, were released on bail yesterday.

Roger Bess, 34, a janitor of 104 Cummings Street, Bourda, and Travis Davis, a bus driver of Agricola, East Bank Demerara, were both arraigned before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Bess was the driver in the accident at Cemetery Road, West La Penitence which killed a 61-year-old pedestrian and injured two others. Davis, on the other hand, was fingered as the man behind the wheels of the minibus which crashed into a concrete pole at Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara claiming the life of a security guard.

Davis is being accused of driving dangerously while piloting motor vehicle BSS9471 thereby causing the death of Lynette Joseph on January 6, last at Little Diamond Public Road, East Bank Demerara.

He pleaded not guilty and submitted an application for bail through his lawyer, Paul Fung-a-Fat.

The Court heard that about 17:45 hours on Tuesday, last, Davis was driving at a fast rate while heading north on the Little Diamond Public Road.

Police Prosecutor, Corporal Bharat Mangru explained that as Davis negotiated a right bend, he lost control of the vehicle and it toppled.

According to Mangru, the minibus slid for about 26 feet before colliding with a concrete post. Joseph, a passenger at the time, was seated three seats behind the driver. Mangru said that she was injured in the accident and subsequently died.

The Prosecutor did not object to Davis being allowed his pretrial liberty, but asked that reporting conditions be attached if bail was granted.

Meanwhile, Fung-a-Fat requested reasonable bail.

He said his client is a father of two and has been driving for the past seven years.

According to the lawyer, Davis had never been involved in an accident.

He claimed that another bus cut in front of Davis forcing him off the road.

There are three passengers who will testify that his client was not speeding, he said. He told the court that

his client is willing to surrender his passport and abide by any condition the court deems necessary for bail. Davis was granted bail to the tune of $150,000. He was ordered to lodge his passport with the court and report every Friday at 09:00 hours to the Traffic Officer in Charge, at the Providence Police Station.

In a separate court appearance, Bess was slapped with five charges.

He is charged with driving in a manner dangerous to the public while piloting motor car PNN 7977 on Thursday, January 1 at Cemetery Road, West La Penitence, thereby causing the death of 61-yearold George Barker, of Freeman Street, East La Penitence.

The prosecution said, too, that he was not the holder of a driver’s licence and that he used the car which was not insured for third party risk. Another charge detailed that a certificate of fitness was not in force on the vehicle.

It was further alleged that on the said road, the 34year-old drove the vehicle and having been involved in an accident which resulted in the death of Barker and injuries to 18-year-old Anaynasa Thorne, he failed to stop the vehicle after the accident and render assistance to the injured.

While Bess admitted that he had no licence at the time and that the car was uninsured; he denied the other allegations.

P o l i c e P r o s e c u t o r, Inspector Michael Grant explained that about 07:00 hours on New Year’s Day, Bess was the driver of the

ACCUSED: Travis Davis

ACCUSED: Roger Bess motor vehicle heading south on Cemetery Road. He reportedly lost control of the vehicle and hit the pedestrians.

According to Grant, the persons were thrown into a nearby trench. They were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where Barker subsequently passed away.

Grant said Bess fled the scene but was later arrested and charged.

Attorney-at-Law Khemraj Ramjattan, who represented Bess, told the court that the accident occurred because the vehicle’s two front tires sustained punctures as he

was going over a speed bump.

He said, as a result, Bess lost control of the vehicle and the pedestrians, who were nearby, were hit.

Ramjattan explained that his client pleaded not guilty to failing to render assistance because his car pitched into the trench and he was taken to the hospital.

The lawyer said that Bess had never been charged before. Station bail was set at $100,000.

Addressing the court,

Bess said that his licence expired on December 10, last year and the fitness certificate was in the car but the ranks did not find it.

Bess was fined $25,000 for being an unlicensed driver and $40,000 for driving an uninsured vehicle. Failing to pay those fines will result in two weeks’ imprisonment.

For the other two charges, the 34-year-old was granted $50,000 bail each.

He will return to Court on January 29.

Fallen pole causes shut down in Berbice, Demerara A fallen pole on one of two 69 KV transmission lines stretching from Golden Grove to Sophia, resulted in a total shutdown in Demerara and Eastern Berbice around 07:35 hrs yesterday, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) said.

“Restoration of electricity to all affected communities commenced in Demerara at 08:44hrs. continuing to Berbice with the last community being repowered at 9:15hrs.”

The power company said that during this period, consumers within Kingston, sections o f L a c y t o w n a n d C u m m i n g s b u rg ,

experienced intermittent outages throughout efforts to restore power.

“Subsequently, several trees fell onto our network on Hadfield Street which delayed the restoration process. Crews are currently engaged in mopping up operations and addressing isolated cases where individual consumers may have had service interruption caused by the high winds.”

GPL has also said that the public can report emergencies to: Demerara2264015/6, Berbice 333-2186 and Essequibo 777-5015.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 19

Embattled estate manager was spoken to about behaviour, says Armogan

R

egion Six Chairman, Mr. David Armogan, has said that embattled Skeldon Estate Manager, Dev Kumar, was spoken to by his Administration in Region Six about his poor behaviour. Now he believes Kumar has regretted his horrible behaviours’.

A r m o g a n w a s addressing the issue as well as the poor performance of the Skeldon Sugar Factory during the last crop at his annual Press Conference at the Boardroom of the Berbice Regional Health Authority (BRHA), Fort Canje, Berbice.

“I think he (Kumar) has regretted to some extent, those incidents,” Armogan added. “I don’t know if people are targeting him, but he has been in the news for quite some time for behaviour that is not worthwhile,” he added.

Armogan said that the Region Six Administration as well as officials of Central Government spoke to the errant manager.

Kumar is currently on leave overseas, as is customary for Estate Managers during the out-ofcrop period. “He would normally go on leave at the end of the crop—most of these managers would go on leave during the out-of-crop periods,” he added.

Kumar, last November, was arrested by a police patrol on the Corriverton Public road while he was urinating in the centre of the thoroughfare.

According to a reliable source, Kumar and some other senior Managers were at the Grill Night Spot at Corriverton and got into some altercations. The man left the night club, boarded the estate vehicle PPP 6414 along with the Agriculture Manager and proceeded to drive along the road.

He stopped a few doors from the Republic Bank at Corriverton and urinated in the middle of the road. When he was rebuked he became

abusive. Then in December, he was arrested and locked up after he openly abused and challenged, chucked and threatened the police officers who had intervened. The police were conducting patrols in the Corriverton area.

Kumar, who was reportedly in a drunken state, was being driven in a Guysuco vehicle when it was stopped by ranks on patrol.

The Manager immediately became abusive.

Also in December, Kumar was accused of accosting a female bar owner and hurling abuses at businessmen during a drunken rage at Rita’s Shop, at Number 78 Village, Corriverton. Kumar, who was clearly inebriated, reportedly came in and became incensed when he saw the bar owner hanging out with the group.

Using a series of expletives, he reportedly went over to the moneychanger and accosted him.

He was warned to behave.

Armogan said that he does not believe the poor performance of Skeldon Estate is as a result of the errant manager. “But I know there was a strike at Skeldon Estate as a result of the altercation between the Manager and a worker , and that too might have led to the underproduction because it was prolonged for a week,” he added.

Kumar was spoken to, he added. “He did say that some of the things that were said were as a result of people trying to get at him.”

Skeldon’s poor performance Skeldon sugar factory again, recorded one of the worst performances of all the four Berbice estates.

Skeldon, the newest factory in the country was only commissioned in 2009. It fell behind the target by 5,449 tonnes, closing with 21,813 tonnes for the second crop.

However, it used cane that would have produced more than twice that volume

of sugar. Armogan said that in normal circumstances it would take 12 tonnes of cane to make one tonne of sugar.

“In the case of Skeldon Estate, it took sometimes 20 tonnes of cane to make one tonne of sugar, so they had some serious problems in regard to extractions and factory problemsmechanical problems.”

Albion was the estate with the highest production surpassing the target of 33,516 tonnes by some 681

tonnes. He added that he does not believe it is a problem of low production of canes, “because if you take the same amount of cane and give it to Albion (Estate), you probably would have made more sugar, because Albion (Estate) TCTS average has been about 11.5 to 12, whereas in Skeldon (Estate), it is about 15 and 20.”

Even Rose Hall did better, recording 22,214 tonnes, or 808 tonnes above

the target set for this last crop of the year. Blairmont also surpassed its target of 20,560 tonnes, ending the crop with 22,723 tonnes.

The Regional Chairman stated that inasmuch as Skeldon utilized more cane, it has not been able to make the predicted amounts of sugar, he added. This is simply because of the high Tonne of Cane per Tonne of Sugar (TCTS), “and poor extraction-it takes so much cane to make so much sugar.”

Region Six Chairman, David Armogan

Page 20

Kaieteur News

Kanawan runs out of fuel

Saturday January 10, 2015

Phoenix Park residents concerned about leaning GPL pole The leaning pole (inset) is shifted off its base

W

hile the scheduled time to depart the Supenaam Ferry stelling was 11 am, Wednesday morning, passengers traveling to Parika via the Chinese ferry, Kanawan, were forced to be delayed at the Supenaam Stelling for almost three hours.

Kanawan developed difficulties obtaining fuel from the Guyoil, Adventure branch. Guyoil, the main supplier of fuel and lubricants was experiencing a shortage which hampered filling stations in the Regions several weeks ago. The situation has returned to normalcy but on Wednesday the agency didn’t have enough fuel to supply the ferry, which caused the delay.

According to a mini-bus driver, who usually transports passengers to and from Supenaam, the Kanawan was delayed at

Supenaam for hours because of a fuel shortage experience by Guyoil, the sole fuel depot at Adventure. “Guyoil didn’t have enough to supply the ferry.”

The bus driver said while passengers were delayed for some three hours, the situation returned to normalcy on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the delay had affected passengers; it didn’t fuel any significant problem.

Recently, the Sabanto which was heading to the Good-Hope/Supenaam Ferry Stelling ran into some bushes, aback of Wakenaam.

Passengers were forced to solicit the speed boat service, while vehicles were left stranded in the boat which was stuck for days in the clump of bushes.

Next week, the Kanawan is scheduled to be docked.

R

esidents of Phoenix Park, We s t B a n k Demerara, have been living in fear that an unstable utility pole will collapse before gaining the needful attention of contractors attached to the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL). The utility pole in question is one located a stone’s throw from the Best/Klein/Pouderoyen Neighbourhood Democratic Council.

Although from a distance it is clear that the already leaning pole is split at the bottom, up close, it is evident that it is not only damaged but has shifted completely off of its base. One resident told this publication that while it was apparent for some time that the pole was rotten, it was only about

three weeks ago that it was observed to have slipped from its base.

Residents said that the state of affairs was reported to GPL a few weeks ago, but nothing has been done to even support the pole.

Based on the close observation of residents, the pole, which accommodates GPL wires as well as that of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, is only able to remain standing because of the solid mud surface in which it is positioned.

However, persistent rainfall of recent has been cause for much concern, since residents are worried that the mud will soften resulting in the pole falling across the nearby thoroughfare. This they believe could possibly even

create an even more daunting state of affairs, one they believe could be avoided altogether if the Power Company responds to their plea.

The only evident i n d i c a t i o n o f acknowledgement by GPL was the move to mark the leaning pole with a letter (x) within a circle, all in red.

A c a l l t o G P L’s Emergency Response Unit yesterday was accepted by a female employee who explained that even if the matter was reported to that Unit it would not be addressed at that level.

According to her it is instead the role of the Maintenance Unit to deal with issues of damaged poles. She was unable to offer information as to when the leaning pole will be catered to.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 21

Police nab Christmas night LIAT announces fuel surcharge bandits with stolen booty reduction on tickets Three bandits who had broken into the home of a resident at Fort Ordnance, East Canje Berbice, on Christmas Night did not cater for the swift response of the police.

After gathering intelligence and conducting surveillance, the police swooped down on a house at Fort Ordnance and in the process nabbed three thieves.

The bandits, who were in a house with a quantity of stolen items, were still in the process of dividing their illgotten gains.

The men Jaegdesh Jaelall, 37, and Andrew Patterson 42,

of 972 Fort Ordnance Housing Scheme, East Canje, Berbice and Balram Ramkisoon, 41, of Betsy Ground, East Canje Berbice are all labourers. They were subsequently charged with break and enter and larceny.

They are accused of breaking and entering the dwelling house of Suruj Nandkumar, and stealing $125,000 in local Currency, US$250 and a quantity of clothing.

According to information, on the night in question the victim secured his home and left around 20:30 hrs. He re-

turned around 22:00 hrs. and noticed four louver panes removed from a window of the house. Upon entering, he noticed the entire place ransacked. Further checks revealed the cash and items missing.

The matter was reported and the police acting on information swooped down on the house in which the men were staying and arrested them.

They were charged and appeared in court, before Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus. They were granted $75,000 bail each.

Spurned lover charged with wounding mother of his children The man who on Tuesday ambushed and tried to kill his children’s mother has been charged with felonious and unlawful wounding and remanded to jail.

Cleveland Williams 43, of Levi Dam Angoy’s Avenue appeared on Friday before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh at the Albion Magistrate’s Court charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding Natasha Bruce.

Williams is accused of wounding Bruce 37, a mother of five of Nurseville Housing Scheme New Amsterdam.

The woman had shared a relationship with the accused during which time she bore him five children. She had broken off the relationship

with the accused which had become very abusive over four years ago.

The man had, during the time, constantly threatened to kill her if she does not take him back. He would telephone her and repeat his threats.

On the day in question the woman had just returned home in her boy friend’s Eon Reynolds car when she was attacked. The woman had left her home on the day before and went to her boyfriend’s residence at No 8 Village, West Coast Berbice where she spent the entire night.

She returned home around 05:00 hrs on Tuesday 6th and entered her yard. She knocked on her back door and to her horror instead of one of her

children opening the door. It was their father. The man immediately advanced towards and grabbed her.

He held on to the woman’s chest and started to stab her demanding that, “if I can’t get you nobody will”.

Her boyfriend made an attempt to help which gave her enough time to elude her attacker and secure herself in her house.

The police were informed and responded promptly and nabbed the man even as he was trying to make an escape.

The man was not required to plea and was remanded to jail until the 12th January when the matter is expected to be called again in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court.

Causing death driver charged five months later Some five months after he drove his vehicle in a manner dangerous to the public thus causing the death of former Berbice youth cricketer Kharamchand Shivdyal, on the Number 19 Public Road, the driver responsible has been charged.

Eugene Cort, 44, a miner of Lot 134 Fyrish, North, Corentyne, Berbice, appeared on Thursday before Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court on the charge of causing death by dangerous driving. He pleaded not guilty.

He is accused of being the driver of the Black Raum motor car PKK 3543 on Saturday, August 16, last, on the Number19 Public Road, drove the vehicle in a manner dangerous to the public thus causing the death of Shivdyal.

Shivdyal, 27,also called ‘Shiv’ of 17 Third Street, Fryish, Corentyne, Berbice ,

Killed: Kharamchand Shivdyal a father of one, died after the vehicle he was travelling in crashed, turned turtle and plunged into the roadside trench.

Shivdyal and four friends were in the vehicle reportedly

driven by Cort. They were making their way home around 04:00 hrs when the accident occurred. After the accident, the driver left the scene and the car was hidden.

However, the police were tipped off and eventually located the vehicle and the driver. He was placed in custody and subsequently placed on bail.

After the accident, Shivdyal was rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital and was being prepared to be transferred to the Georgetown Hospital when he died.

Cort was represented by Attorney at Law Murseline Bacchus who asked for reasonable bail for his client.

Prosecutor Inspector Edson Davidson had no objection to bail, but asked that it be substantial.

The magistrate after listening to both side placed Cort on $200,000 bail. He is to return to court on March 2.

LIAT has announced a reduction on the fuel surcharge on tickets.

Antigua - Regional Airline, LIAT, on Friday announced that it is reducing the fuel surcharge on tickets.

Chief Executive Officer, David Evans, said that effective January 15, the fuel surcharge will be reduced by 50 per cent for all new bookings.

LIAT first introduced a fuel surcharge in 2003, in the

wake of increasing fuel prices.

In 2009 when the prices went down, the company took a decision to remove the fuel surcharge.

However, in 2011, LIAT reintroduced the fuel surcharge in response to months of spiraling jet fuel prices. That year alone, LIAT spent US$22 million on fuel, or 18 per cent of

total costs.

The price of both jet fuel (the fuel used by airlines), and crude oil have been falling recently.

Evans said, being fully aware of the impact rising fuel prices have had on customers, it is only fitting that they benefit from the decreased prices.

Trini extradited to US to face charges including murder Trinidad Express Trinidad and Tobago national, Shazam Meighoo, was yesterday extradited to the United States, upon their request, to face charges of murder in the first degree; endangering the welfare of a child; unlawful possession of a handgun and possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose.

A warrant of arrest, towards Mr. Meighoo’s extradition to the USA was issued; and handed over to Cpl. John of the local INTERPOL Bureau.

The fugitive, 37, of Kelly Village, Caroni, was placed on a flight destined for New Jersey by US Marshalls, at 2:30am, at the Piarco International Airport.

Cpl. John and members of the local INTERPOL Bureau had conducted enquiries and located the subject, who surrendered himself to Cpl. John on 27th November 2014.

The warrant was then executed on Mr. Meighoo. He appeared before Magistrate Caesar-Ayers, at the Port of Spain 8th Magistrate Court, on 08th December, 2014, where he waived extradition proceedings and opted to return to the USA to face trial for the said crimes and was ordered extradited (by consent).

A “Warrant for Return to Requesting Territory” was issued by the Attorney General and handed over to the INTERPOL Bureau for the removal of the prisoner to the USA. Officers involved in the

exercise included Ag. Sgt. Narace; Cpl. John; PC Sinanan and No. 7066, WPC Felix of the INTERPOL Bureau. STATEMENT FROM NATIONAL SECURITY MINISTRY

Page 22

VACANCY IT Technician to install outdoor antenna, must have drivers license. Send application to jobs@awngy.com

Kaieteur News

CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE AUTO RENTAL: CARS & SUV FOR RENTAL-$4,000&UPPERDAYCALL: 643-5122, 219-3900, EMAIL: PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM

One domestic Helper; ages 30-40; Mon – Sat: 8am to 4pm – Call: 615-2483 24 Hour East Coast Guyoil needs night pump attendants, salesgirl, office assistant & handyman- Call: 695-9880; 669-4755 Waitresses to work at a Bar at Agriculture Road –E.C.DTel:612-2522 Cashier, pump attendant, cleaner. Send application to Shell Ramsburg, Providence E.B.D Night Shift Supervisor, emailshellramsburg@gmail.com or Shell Ramsburg, Providence E.B.D Vacancy for experienced dispatcher- Call: 231-4000 or 231-4001 Work from home; earn $5,000-20,000 daily, www.jobfairworldwide.com Call: 233-6517; 622-1957 Call Monday – Friday 9am-5pm Experienced barman (night shift) cooks and live-in caretaker @ Cotton Club Restaurant & Bar 44 Public Road Kitty -Tel: 231-1908 Experienced Receptionist and maids to work at Hotel, shift work @ Hilton Crest Hotel – Call:223-6284 Plant shop vacancy; literate, hardworking, pleasant, team player, 18-28yrs. Must have work experienced –Location Houston & Sheriff Street.

Tel: 648-1821 Assistant Salesgirls E.C.DCall: 644-9802; 603-5416

FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535.

Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves.

Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 225-6496, 6626045 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIRCONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINES, TVS, MICROWAVES, FREEZERS- CALL: 6294946 OR 225-4822 Repairs to refrigerators, gas stoves, washing machines, AC Units- Call Lindon on 6411086; 694-2202 Sewing done within 48hrs; school clothes, dance costumes, mash costumes etc – Call Roxi’s Fashion: 2278538

Security Officers: Military Experienced , $210 to $250 an hour (8hrs & 12hrs Shift) – Call: 231-6052; 680-0515; 6602393 Bond clerk, Cleaner, Accounts Clerk, Waitress/ Waiter, Security Officer & Engineer; interested persons can contact: 6034094

GT TOOL RENTALS: COMPACTOR; CHIPPING HAMMER RANSOM & FLOOR SANDER, (SALE) & MORE, JACK HAMMER, CONCRETE SAW - CALL: 675-0767, 667-2535 2 bedroom upstairs house with parking @ ‘BB’ Eccles $65,000 – Tel:233-2607 or 6178617 Beauty Stations for hairdresser or barbers – Call Modfin Salon: 225-6026; 6822604 or 301 Church & Thomas Street.

Luxurious 2 bedroom apartment to rent furnished or unfurnished @ Eccles AA Scheme – Call:686-5625 1 Upper flat 3 bedrooms apartment @ Ixora Ave. Eccles - $80,000, available February 2015, serious enquiries – Contact: 233-2583 or 601-7229 Five bedrooms house @ 107 Lamaha Gardens & large parking, AC rooms, hot & cold, purified water system Call: 661-8908; 335-3590 One 3 bedroom flat house in West Ruimveldt – Call:6927377; 672-2194 Prime business place for offices on Sheriff Street – Call: 627-6740 Office space in Kitty – Call: 652-5322

I.T Electronic Security officer: CCTV Experienced , 4 CXC Subjects, Salary Based on Qualifications – Call: 231-6052; 680-0515; 6602393 Bouncers:Able bodied , Military Experienced will be an asset – Call: 231-6052; 6800515; 660-2393

SALON Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal and Sacha cosmetics. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 Bleach-Blue for body, face & hair, available in 1 lb bags for $4,000, discount for larger volumes – Phone 264-3310; 600-3927

One Nail & Hair station for rent @ Prime Location – Call: 225-4665; 676-4316; 624-3996

LAND FOR SALE 1500 Acres Transported Land @ Bartica 2 ¾ miles River Front, Virgin Rock, Quarry Resort – Call Mark: 704-4652222/603-1266 Parfaite Harmonie - $1.4M, $3.5M (110ftX50ft) Eccles (100ftX50ft) -$4.5M, Grove $2.5M with foundation – Call: 675-7292 Double Land (300X100) @ Lot 7 Tuschen E.B.E – Call: 672-2215

2 bedrooms apartment 20X20 in Diamond; preferably Christian with no small children – Call: 592-689-8258 (Sunday after 12pm)

LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel:644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997

Saturday January 10, 2015

FOR SALE

VEHICLE FOR SALE

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

Toyota Prado, Price$5.5M Neg. Call: 643-2403

Two 320CL Caterpillar, Excavators; good condition, price to go – Call: 611-4775 Promix BX with microrize $10,500 per bag; ask for Rayman – Call: 615-2346; 6280200, 263-5300 1 Toshiba Laptop (17.3inches) 1 5000 Watts Briggs & Stratton generator - Call: 622-0503; 689-9932 1 Numark DM 1295 4 Channel mixer, 1 Teac CD burner uses any blank CD – Call: 6220503; 689-9932 2 Gemini GXA 4000 Watts power amp, 1 Technical Pro 3250 watts pro 3250 watts power amp – Tel: 622-0503; 689-9932 2 SL I serato boxes, 2 Denon 3500 CD Juggler, 2 Gemini GXA 3000 Watts power Amp Call: 622-0503; 689-9932 Diving Suit – Call: 265-3449; 613-5158 Generator – 65KVA Perkins 4236 Engine – Tel: 623-9761 4 Piece High Definition Security cameras with installation from $90,000 – Contact Randy: 611-3038 Marine parts (In Board) engines from 20HP to 500Hp Propeller gearbox, shaft, gland all electronics etc – Call: 674-3735; 652-8970 Mixed breed puppies for sale Call:253-3114; 692-0126 1- Complete 6" Dredge for mining, includes 6 Cylinder Perkins & 1-4 Cylinder. All pumps, mats, etc, asking $3M – Contact: 610-1001.

1 RAV 4 PJJ 5963 - $1.3M, also plant pots with plant – Tel:233-2607; 617-8617 Transformer: 25KVA industrial single phase 480/ 240/120V U.S.A PAD MOUNTED– Tel: 623-9761 Yamaha 40HP outboard engine in good working condition- Tel:226-0240 New Samsung Galaxy Note 4 - $145,000 negotiable – Call:689-0980 Original pools table cloth, balls, pocket cuestick, rubber, coinshute, chalk spring, chalk holder, coins– Call: 669-9927 Sale on black Leotards and tights; coloured leotards too – Call Roxie’s Fashion – 2278538 Raw Spandex black and white only @ Roxie’s Fashion- Call: 622-4386 Panel/Fancy Glass Doors @ HADCO in Bagotstown Public Road, Next to Harbour Bridge Mall – Call: 233-6743

One ford IVECO sand truck with Cummings Engine, GNN Series, excellent condition, owner leaving country - Call: 604-6860, 643-2911 Pitbull Bus - $3.250M, VVTI Bus - $2.675M, Runx $2.275M, 212 -$2.150M, Allion -$2.4M, Raum $2.250M, Sienta - $2.100M – Call:623-6070 2005/ 6yrs Silver Toyota Allion, new shape, lights at D.North Auto Sales, low mileage - $2.550M – Tel:6630584 PRR IST, Mags Body Kit, Music, Crystal HID lights, Chrome Kit - $1.6M - Call: 6177113 Toyota Spacio, Body Kit, Rims, spoiler, CD player; never registered - $2.1M – Call: 617-2891 AT192 Carina - $800,000 – Tel:641-4192; 229-6515 Newly registered Toyota Allion with Body Kit – Call: 667-4774 Spacio 2004, Body Kit, rims, camera, spoiler, dark interior, crystal light, new shape (unregistered) – Tel: 617-5536 1 Two RZ Engine Long Base EFI minibus 1 and Mitsubishi lancer PKK Series – Call: 6901393; 261-5427 1 Honda 600RR, Toyota 212, 192, 170, Raum, Allion, IST, AE100 Sprinter, Honda CRV – Tel:644-5096; 697-1453 One Toyota Voxy recently registered; immaculate condition; GSS Series –Call: 643-0266 1 Enclosed Canter Truck $550,000 – Call: 676-0455 One F350 Ford 4X4, Turbo Charge 8 Cylinder Diesel Solid Def 4WD - $4M Negotiable – Call Junior Percival: 261-5304; 6654611 One FX4 F150 Ford 4X4 Super custom sports model - $3.8M NegotiableCall Junior Percival: 2615304; 665-4611 One Ford Driven Tractor 60HP, 600 Hours; almost new - $2.2M negotiable - Call Junior Percival: 261-5304; 665-4611 15 Ton dump Truck very good working condition, price very attractive – Call: 681-5988, 675-5448 One Toyota Prado – PFF8555 Contact Partners in Rural Development- Tel 226-5891, 2277839 Toyota Runx; PRR Series; excellent condition, AC, CD/ DVD, Back up camera, rims $1.8M – Call: 627-7261

WANTED Space around G/Town to teach Ballroom & Latin Dance – Call: 612-6475 or 629-8842 One cook for family in the interior – Tel: 691-6260 C H I C K E N FARM WORKER NEEDED IN TRINIDAD, FREE HOUSING , SALARY TT$800 WEEKLY. CALL KELVIN: 868-287-4454 / 718-641-1252 Couple-female experienced cook/housekeeper. Malegrounds man/handyman; Live in at Essequibo tourist resort- Tel-624-8694 One day time security guard, between ages 35-50, preferably from Georgetown, previous experienced required – Call: 225-3198; 623-3231 Mature couple to work & live on Resort @ Parika, Must know to read & write Call:226-9492, between 9:30am-3:30pm (Mon-Fri) Salesgirls & porters; apply with written application at Best Buy Food Supplies @ Lot 1E Dennis & Middleton Street Campbellville.

From 2pm -12pm; 4 waitresses to work at Bora Sports Bar at W.C.D – Call: 680-0129; 276-1925 1 Live in domestic or maid to work; salary $50,000 monthly; age 25-45 - Call: 675-7043; 688-5409 or 664-5199 Experienced cooks for International & Creole Dishes –Call Winston: 660-6446 Wanted staff to work in fast food restaurant -Call 2262829 / 225-102 Salesperson/Cashier; male & female – Apply in person with written application at Nirva Supermarket – Contact: 227-5771 Office clerk senior clerk/ junior CXC English / Mathematics an Asset –Call: 219-5354 Experienced salesgirl from ages 25-40 location @ 23 Lambard Street, Christine Variety Store – Contact: 6268003; 227-8529 Truck Drivers & security Guard – Call: 218-5105; 2181156 Girls to sell Ice Cream on truck – Call: 693-2897 Driver/conductor to operator Route 42 Mini bus – Contact: 223-6059 or 645-3619 One live-in maid; must know to cook; preferably from country area – Tel: 691-6260 CATERING Catering for conference, retreats, weddings, re-union, family fun day and special events. Phone: 264-2946-8 (Continued on page 23)

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 23

Special arrangements for persons with disabilities on Elections Day (From page 22)

PEN PAL Companion 38+ for retired gentleman, Write:Bobby Other, Worksharp, 92-96 Lord Street, PR8 1JR, England.

Indian male is seeking female between ages 30-33. Call: 6653246 (no texting)

GECOM officials meet with representatives of the National Commission on Disability On Wednesday, the National Commission on Disability (NCD) met with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Secretariat to discuss a number of issues pertaining to the differently-able and their activities before and during Election Day. The meeting, according to GECOM, explored means of effectively facilitating persons living with disabilities on Election Day. “In so doing, both entities sought to identify and reduce barriers encountered when registering and voting at elections.”

Wednesday’s meeting was a follow up to a previous one held last year as the NCD continued to assess the current status of preparation

by GECOM to accommodate the differently-able during registration and on Election Day. “GECOM recognizes that all registered electors have equal rights to vote regardless of whether they are disabled. Consequently, GECOM has promised the NCD that on Election Day persons with disabilities can expect to be treated respectfully and fairly. They will be given all the assistance they need from the polling day staff present at polling places on Election Day.” Training exercises are ongoing with polling day staff.

Yesterday, GECOM announced that it is making serious efforts to have polling day staff who are well-trained to take care of the needs of all voters, including the differently abled.

“For example, for the visually impaired, GECOM has given the undertaking to put into use a specially structured template to be placed over the ballot paper as an instrument which would assist the elector in marking

his/her ballot for the party of his/her choice.”

With respect to electors with impaired hearing, GECOM hopes to implement audio visual electronic advertisements and notices which will include demonstrations by a sign language translator. The latter will be made available by the NCD. “All new GECOM buildings are equipped with ramps for persons with physical disabilities, especially those who are wheelchair bound, in keeping with the Disability Act. GECOM is also exploring the possibility of having special arrangements in place at selected polling places for electors using wheelchairs.

Furthermore, all persons who are differently abled will be given priority access at polling stations.”

Representing the NCD was its Chairman, Evelyn Hamilton; Vice Chairman, Vidushi Persaud; Commissioner, Ganesh Singh and Executive Secretary, Beverly Pile.

GECOM was represented by its Chairman, Dr. Steve Surujbally; Chief Election Officer, Keith Lowenfield; Deputy Chief Election Officer, Vishnu Persaud and the Legal Officer, Juanita Barker.

APNU wants to solve challenges...

From page 14 the complaints were in relation to a feeling of neglect for some aspects of the industry by the government, and the uneven distribution of concessions between local and foreign members of the sector.

Bulkan said, too, that there is the claim that the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) offers very little or no services to miners, and also lambasted the Commis-

sion for conducting special projects without proper consultations.

Did APNU make any attempt to contact the Commission on the complaints it received from the miners?

Bulkan said that to the best of his knowledge there has been no contact with the Commission.

Dr. Roopnaraine said that such an avenue has not been pursued as yet and as such, is still on the table.

CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTAL CALL: 225-7126/ 2263693 DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM/ WWW.DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL.COM Aidan’s Car & Pickup rental, cheap rate, low security – Tel:698-7807; 690-6494

TO LET 2 bedroom apartment $55,000 @ Dowding Street Kitty –Call: 674-3735; 6528970 Cottage to let @ Turkeyen Area – Call: 604-6973 One bedroom apartment to rent – Call: 664-2861 Fully Furnished vacation home with all amenities- Call during working hours – Call: 227-1218 Fully Grilled; 3 bedrooms bottom flat at Pearl E.B.D – Call: 694-3540; 669-7201.

Three bedrooms top flat to rent in Alexander Village – Call: 688-1647

EDUCATIONAL Practical Electronic Course; Starting 12th January 2015Call Abdul Electronics: 2266551; 225-0391 Balloon Decorating Classes.

January 31st – Call: 225-3133 or 613-7513 for more information & registration Certificate in: Cosmetology, nails, wig designs, early child care/ care for elderly classes commence February – Call: 666-5241/ 619-7603 Child care, care for elderly, body massage, dressmaking, cakes & pastries, cake decoration – Contact: 2641052; 663-7930

ACCOMODATION Aracari Hotel 24 HRs: AC, Cable, Wi-Fi, Restaurant & Bar, Pool & Gym, Salon & Spa & more. Rates from $45 – Call:264-2946-8

PROPERTY FOR SALE Flat concrete house newly built all utilities at Bath Settlement W.C.B, price reasonable –Contact: 6869514; 648-5012 Land with small concrete house; for sale in Grove over 8,000 Sq. Ft. Call: 612-4030; 216-2759

FOR SALE Car wash Vacuum, 1 Freezer – Call: 686-5625

2 Storied concrete house with 3 bedrooms at 8th Street Foulis Housing Scheme – Call: 256-3360; 685-8485

PSP games $800, Computer games $1000 & over 1200 titles. Contact:675-2239; BBM 7FF1557E

Large house lot @ Zeeburg; fenced; bearing fruit trees; front & rear access – Call: 277-0024; 684-6106 Spacious 4 bedrooms two storied house, two large lots @ De Willem area, all amenities, move-in condition – Call: 277-0024; 684-6106 House & Land @ Cemetery Rd. Helena No.1 Mahaica E.C.D. Land (65FTX150FT) $13M- Tel:689-0820, 674-3902

Page 24

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

Three suicides GRA continues Random in Essequibo Selection Examination System Just nine days into the New Year, Essequibians both young and old are rapidly becoming disgusted with life.

The Essequibo Coast has thus far recorded three cases of suicide with one being an elderly woman, who was discovered Wednesday afternoon hanging from a beam in her Golden Fleece bedroom.

Tinka Ramsamooj, 80, a re-migrant, formerly of Golden Fleece, Essequibo Coast, was pronounced dead at the Suddie Public Hospital. She lived with her sister.

A man who was disgusted with life and often threatened to kill his two young children, died at the Suddie Public Hospital some time Thursday after he drank a quantity of poison on Christmas Day. The man was seen before he drank the poison taking his two young children to the Hampton Court sea wall, where he attempted to throw them overboard. He was however thwarted by a man from the Village who saw him.

In other reports, 33-yearold Edward Junior Joseph, also of Golden Fleece, ended his life after he and his spouse were apparently experiencing domestic problems.

The father of three was found motionless aback of his house last week.

…aims to bolster confidence in agency capabilities The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) continued to carry out its Random Selection of Imports for Examination System, yesterday at the GRA compound.

Yesterday’s selection process, which was the second so far for the year, had members of the public randomly selecting one of five consignments from a ticket cage containing the names of consignees from the previous day’s declarations lodged at the Customs and Trade Administration.

Following the selection process, agents of GRA promptly carried out their duties, examining import/cargo containers. The five companies which were part of the exercise were Demerara Distillers Limited, Amazon Caribbean Guyana Ltd, Guyana Beverage Inc., Torginal Paint and R Maye Hardware.

According to the agency’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Fabian Clowes, this exercise was implemented to improve public confidence in GRA’s selection and examination process.

The agency has been doing random search and examination exercises since last March. However, this new process has public citizens directly selecting imports to be examined, rather than the computerized system that was previously used.

Moving the Random Selection of Import for Examination System, into public hands was done to rule out speculations of partiality on the part of GRA. By having the public choose, the agency is hoping to restore confidence in the agency’s capabilities in conducting its duties effectively.

Not only will companies

Public selection process at GRA compound.

Search of import container after selection process at GRA be subjected to random searches but individuals who import on a commercial scale will also be subjected to the system. For the next year,

GRA will be implementing this exercise on a regular basis with PROs, Internal Auditors and Customs Brokers participating in the process.

This Random Selection system is in keeping with GRA’s commitment to achieve greater transparency and efficiency in the selection process, for consignments to be examined and is designed to

involve the agency’s key stakeholder – the public.

Moreover, no parallel selection system will be implemented in the exercise, thus making the public’s selection final.

Further, irregularit i e s found during the process will be addressed immediately in accordance with the Customs Laws and Regulations.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 25

Paris massacre…

Executioners’ run comes to a bloody end (Daily Mail) Three Islamic jihadists were dead last night after Special Forces brought an end to more than two days of slaughter which have left at least 17 dead and spread terror across France.

Said and Cherif Kouachi, the brothers who had assassinated 12 people at satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, died in a blaze of gunfire at a printworks near Paris where they had been holed up with one hostage, who survived.

Moments later, dozens of commandos stormed a Jewish grocery 25 miles away in east Paris where accomplice Amedy Coulibaly was threatening to kill 15 terrified captives, including women and children.

In an earlier phone call to a journalist, Coulibaly confirmed that he was in contact with the Kouachis and the attacks had been ‘synchronised’. He said he had sworn allegiance to Islamic State in Iraq and had targeted the shop because ‘it was Jewish’ The 32-year-old, responsible for the death of a woman police officer Clarissa JeanPhilippe on Thursday, was also ‘neutralised’ in the assault. But his 27-year-old girlfriend Hayat Boumeddiene described as ‘armed and dangerous’ is on the run.

Witnesses watched in horror as freed hostages fled the scene screaming, some carrying their children in their arms. ‘It’s war!” screamed a mother as she dragged her daughter from the scene.

It emerged that four people had been killed while another five are critically wounded. As many as 30 had survived by hiding in a cold store where they kept silent for hours.

The bloody climax to the terrorists’ rampage began at around 4.30pm when the Kouachi brothers came out firing’ Kalashnikovs as officers launched an assault on a building in Dammartin-enGoele, north-east of Paris.

Commandos were seen rappelling from a Puma helicopter on to the roof as flash bang grenades were hurled at the factory to disorientate the jihadists, who had been inside for nine hours. Explosions and automatic gunfire could be heard up to a mile away.

Said, 34, and Cherif, 32, were both killed. They had earlier told police that they were ‘ready to die as martyrs’.

One officer from the elite GIGN commando unit is thought to have been injured, while hostage Michel Catalano – the manager of a

- female suspect on the run

Caption: Dead: Cherif Kouachi

Caption: Dead: Said Kouachi

design company – escaped unharmed.

It also emerged that the police were aided by a 27year-old graphic designer who hid inside a box with his phone for more than six hours.

Back in Paris, the grocery shop siege was also heading towards a bloody climax.

Commandos are said to have hacked in the CCTV of the supermarket, and also communicated with one of the hostages by mobile phone.

Coulibaly, meanwhile, gave an interview to a French TV station at the height of the siege where he swore allegiance to Islamic State and said the three days of mayhem had been ‘synchronised’.

He confirmed he had shot a policewoman in the south of Paris the previous day and said his terror attacks were synchronised with the Kouachi brothers. ‘Them Charlie Hebdo; me the police,’ he said.

Around 15 minutes after are the Kouachi brothers were killed, dozens of officers poured into the shop amid a hail of gunfire and loud explosions which rocked surrounding streets. The shopfront was suddenly lit up by a fireball. Two policemen fell to the floor injured.

Ambulances raced to the scene, joining a jam of police vans and other emergency vehicles, all under the eye of helicopters.

As hostages broke free, an astonishing story emerged of how dozens had hidden in a walk-in freezer, cowering in minus three temperatures and praying they would not be found.

Coulibay had warned he would kill all of his hostages if police launched an assault on the Kouachis. It is unclear if he had carried out his threat before police moved in.

Both Cherif Kouachi and Coulibaly had spoken to journalists by phone earlier in the day. Kouachi knew he was

talking to a journalist and the conversation was recorded.

He said: ‘I am a defender of the prophet. I was sent by Al Qaeda of Yemen. I’m financed by Imam Anwar al Awlaqi. Anwar is a (preacher)’. Koucahi went on to claim that the journalists he had killed at Charlie Hebdo were not civilians but legitimate targets.

Millions had watched gripped on television as the three-day manhunt for the terrorists had ended in bloody shootouts, car chases and sieges.

At one point seven helicopters and more than 50 police and military vehicles had been involved in a high speeds chase during which shots were fired after the Kouachis broke cover from a forest where they had been sheltering 50 miles north east of Paris.

They were forced in to the industrial estate at Dammartinen-Goele where they made their last stand.

Local residents were evacuated or ordered to lock themselves in their homes as what was described as ‘a small army’ of soldiers and police surrounded them, throwing a cordon around the area.

‘They said they want to die as martyrs,’ Yves Albarello, a local lawmaker who was inside the command post claimed.

Last night, French President Francois Hollande spoke to the nation promising ‘all necessary measures will be used’ to protect the French people and called on them to remain united in ‘these difficult times.’

He said the attacks had been carried out by fanatics who had nothing to do with Islam and said the assault on the grocery shop was ‘antisemetic.’

The country must remain vigilant against the possibility of further attacks, he stressed.

In Paris, police say Coulibaly, 32, was using the

Caption: Dead: Amedy Coulibaly

On the run: Hayat Boumeddiene

Dead: Police officer Clarissa Jean-Philippe

hostages as a bargaining chip to try to scupper the police response further north. He was said to be working with a woman called Hayat Boumeddiene, and is said to have yelled at police: ‘You know who I am’ when they responded to the shooting.

Police had earlier scrambled phone signals in the area after the gunmen contacted Coulibay while inside the building.

Revelations that a call was made by the Kouachis suggests they may have instructed Coulibay to carry out yesterday’s atrocity to leverage their escape.

There were reports of another alert near the Eiffel Tower, with police seen training their guns down the stairs of a Metro station, but it was a false alarm.

Local media reports that the brothers met Coulibay while in prison.

He is believed to be a fellow member of the Buttes Chaumont – a gang from the 19th arrondissement of Paris that sent jihadists to fight in

Iraq.

Prior to the standoff, the brothers hijacked a Peugeot 206 from a woman in Ermenonville Forest, close to the village of MontagnySainte-Felicite, abandoning their Renualt Clio.

A teacher named Charlene Blondelle was driving to work in the morning when she saw two men with guns stop the vehicle in front of her.

It was only when she got to work at the village school that she realised the two heavily-armed men were the Kouachi brothers.

Jean Paul Douet, the mayor of the village, said Charlene saw the two men force the woman out of the car and sit in the back seat.

It is thought that she was later let out of the car as the men continued their journey to Dammartin-en-Goele.

Mr Douet told MailOnline: ‘The car was taken at around 8.10am. The village teacher arrived at her school to see a car being hijacked in front of her.

‘She saw their weapons,

and in particular their rocketpropelled grenade launcher.’

A spokesman for the Ministry of the Interior said there was an exchange of gunfire with police who were manning a roadblock on the N2 motorway as the brother sped towards Paris.

He told France Info radio that no-one was injured in the clash.

Dozens of police then pursued the brothers along the National 2 highway, ending in Dammartin-en-Goele, close to the area where the huge manhunt had been focused on a forest overnight.

They escaped on foot with a hostage into a small printing business named Creating Trend Discovery, just before 10am (9am GMT).

Residents were warned on the town’s official website to stay indoors and pupils were being kept inside school.

The hunt also affected flights at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris, which closed two runways to arrivals to avoid interfering in the standoff or endangering planes.

Going in: Special Forces storm the Jewish grocery to the east of Paris where terrorist Amedey Coulibaly had taken hostages

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Saturday January 10, 2015

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 27

Wozniacki, Venus advance to NBA roundup: Hawks rip Grizzlies... set up Auckland showdown AUCKLAND (Reuters) Denmark’s Caroline Wozniacki and the evergreen Venus Williams won their semi-finals at the Auckland Classic yesterday to set up a final showdown between two former world number ones.

Wozniacki advanced to her 38th WTA career final with a hard-fought 4-6, 6-3, 64 victory over Czech Barbora Zahlavova Strycova.

Then Williams, showing few signs of slowing down at the age of 34, joined her in Saturday’s title match with a 6-0, 6-3 win romp over fellow American Lauren Davis.

For Williams, who lost last year’s Auckland final to Ana Ivanovic, it marks her 76th appearance in a final.

Already the sixth oldest woman to claim a title after she won in Dubai last year, if she wins she will become the

fourth oldest champion.

Williams did suffer a minor hiccup against Davis. After winning the first seven games on the trot, she dropped three of the next four to trail 3-2 in the second, before reeling off the last four to wrap up victory.

The American has won all five of her previous meetings with Wozniacki but the Dane, who has hit a purple patch of form since reaching last year’s U.S. Open final, was hopeful of ending her drought.

“She’s obviously a tough competitor,” Wozniacki said.

“It won’t be easy, but I’m looking forward to it.

“I’m happy to be in my first final of the year, and hopefully there will be many more to come.”

Wozniacki looked to be in trouble against Zahlavova

Strycova after losing the first set then falling a break down in the second.

However, she rediscovered her form in the nick of time, winning 10 of the next 13 games to take the second set and build a decisive 4-2 lead in the third.

“For me, it was about just staying in the match. I didn’t start off too well, I didn’t really feel the depth of the ball that I wanted to,” Wozniacki said.

“But I started playing better as it went on and I think she did too. I just had to kind of get going out there.

“We were out there for a long time but I knew the longer we went I wouldn’t really feel tired.

I was still feeling fine at the end of the match. But I’m definitely just happy to get through this one today.”

Saturday January 10, 2015 ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You can ask for favors or run your ideas by those who will be able to support your objectives.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Your lack of interest in your partner is a problem. Kick your shoes off and relax.

Debates will stifle passion and result in estrangement.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Look into attending seminars that can expand your perception.

You may want to put your creative thinking cap on.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Don't jump as quickly as you usually do. You are best to ask questions if you aren't certain about issues that are confronting you.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your relationship is undergoing some changes.

Don't blow situations out of proportion or you could find that others will misinterpret what really happened.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept.

23) Do a little shopping. You're likely to find a real bargain.

Your boss may be on the rampage and you certainly don't want to be the one to take the brunt of a bad situation.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Your high energy, original ideas, and excellent memory will aid your accomplishments.

You're in the mood for love. Your ability to work with detail could help you achieve your goals.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Control your anger. Discord could be unnerving.

You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation.

SAGIT (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Your lack of interest in your partner is a problem.

You can get good solid advice from relatives or close friends you trust.

CAPRI (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Visit friends or relatives you don't get to see very often. You will meet new romantic partners if you get involved in seminars or travel.

AQUAR. (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Compromise will be necessary.

If you've taken on a lot of work, be sure to leave some time for yourself and family.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You're best to avoid disputes. Your fun loving approach will be admired and appreciated by others.

From page 30 passes that went nowhere, shots that became bricks, and Tim Hardaway Jr.’s bizarre decision to pass the ball away from the basket when he had a two-on-one fast break right in front of him.

John Wall had 18 points and eight assists for the Wizards, who avoided slipping in an obvious trap game after a tough five-game road trip.

Jose Calderon scored 17 points for the Knicks.

KINGS 104, THUNDER 83 SACRAMENTO, Calif.

(AP) — Rudy Gay scored 28 points and Darren Collison added 24 to help Sacramento snap a 12-game losing streak to Oklahoma City.

DeMarcus Cousins had 23 points and 15 rebounds, and the Kings rolled to just their fourth win in 11 games under new coach Tyrone Corbin and first against Oklahoma City since Feb. 12, 2012.

Kevin Durant scored 24 points for the Thunder, who shot just 32.6 per cent and lost both games of a brief Northern California road trip.

This marked the first time all season that Oklahoma City lost back-to-back games with Durant and Russell Westbrook in the lineup. The Thunder had won nine of 11 with their two stars healthy before the losses to Golden State and Sacramento.

SUNS 113, TIMBER WOLVES 111 MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gerald Green scored 15 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter, and Phoenix handed Minnesota its 13th straight loss.

Green hit three 3-pointers in the fourth, helping the Suns wipe away a seven-point deficit to start the period in the blink of an eye. Goran Dragic added 25 points and the Suns (22-16) survived a scare from the undermanned Timberwolves to win for the 10th time in 12 games.

Andrew Wiggins scored 25 points, but missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer that would have won the game for the Timberwolves, who haven’t won since Dec. 10.

Mo Williams added 23 points and 11 assists and the Wolves led by as many as 13 points. But they turned the ball over 22 times to fall to 5-29 on the season.

JAZZ 97, BULLS 77 CHICAGO (AP) — Derrick Favours had 20 points and 11 rebounds, and Utah used a strong defensive effort to get the win.

The Jazz held the Bulls to a season-low point total on just 28of-84 (33.3 per cent) shooting.

The Bulls were averaging 103.1 points.

Gordon Hayward had 18 points for Utah (13-23), and Trey Burke scored 17. Seven of the Jazz’s wins have come on the road.

Jimmy Butler led the Bulls (25-11) with 16 points and 11 rebounds, and reserve Taj Gibson added 15 points.

Chicago point guard Derrick Rose had just seven points on 3-for-15 shooting. The 2011 NBA MVP is shooting 25.5 per cent (28 for 110) in his last six games.

PISTONS 108, MAVERICKS95 DALLAS (AP) — D.J. Augustin scored 17 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter, and Detroit earned its seventh consecutive victory.

The Pistons (12-23) have the NBA’s longest current winning streak.

Greg Monroe had 27 points and 18 rebounds for Detroit.

Brandon Jennings added 14 points, and Jodie Meeks had 11.

Andre Drummond had a game-high 19 boards for the Pistons, who outrebounded the Mavericks 60-43.

Dallas (26-11) had won six in a row.

Dirk Nowitzki scored 19 points for the Mavericks, and Monta Ellis had 16.

NUGGETS 93, MAGIC 90 DENVER (AP) — Ty Lawson scored 23 points in Denver’s third consecutive win,

and Arron Afflalo had 17 against his former team.

The Nuggets also got a key contribution from Jusuf Nurkic, who had eight points in his first career start in place of Timofey Mozgov, who was traded to Cleveland earlier in the day in exchange for two first-round draft picks.

Nikola Vucevic scored 20 points for the Magic, who lost for the sixth straight time in Denver. Victor Oladipo had 17 points.

CELTICS 89, NETS 81 NEW YORK (AP) — Avery Bradley scored 21 points, and Boston snapped a three-game losing streak.

Tyler Zeller added 18 points for the Celtics, who won for just the second time in nine games by outplaying the Nets over the final three quarters after a slow start. They trailed by 11 in the first half but gradually pulled away after halftime despite shooting under 40 per cent for the game.

Joe Johnson scored 17 points for the Nets, who dropped their third in a row and fell to 1619. Mason Plumlee had 16 points and 12 rebounds but shot just 6 for 11 at the free-throw line.

Page 28

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

<<<< Letter to the Sports Editor >>>>

West Indian players should be paid according to performance DEAR EDITOR, Globally, sports attract humongous attention.

Whether in Calcutta, India or Karachi in Pakistan, the attention becomes passionately infectious when there is consistent success either individually or collectively. When this is juxtaposed by the desire to persevere with tireless and persistent practice by the biomechanical talent; it is very starling to note.

I can think of the dominance of Australia and South Africa on the cricket field or Serena Williams, Steffi Graff and Roger Federer on the tennis courts.

Hours after hours of determined and compulsive practice are the only answer. Their success can also be attributed to having first class training facilities, the right combination of trainers/coaches and effective mechanisms that will continuously breed viable competition from their counterparts.

It therefore means that the

individual or team must maintain the highest level of performance to continue competing rather than participating or conversely the self- respect must be there to earn retention instead of facing relegation. I recently learnt about the retirement of South African batsman Álvaro Peterson from test cricket. Despite his team’s overwhelming success against the West Indies, he knew the time was right to quit. The numerical evidence due to a subdued series by his standard was simply not in his favour to be retained in a highly competitive team.

When will some of our players know when to quit? This is not a question for the durable and equally admirable Shivnarine Chanderpaul, but I presume he will be contemplating a definitive moment of exit and in a more formal manner than many of the past West Indian greats who ended their careers ignominiously.

The battered images, pain and agony of predictable defeat endured by the West Indies team

has become an epidemic despite the much favoured optimism of the Clive Lloyd led selection panel. The ill-tempered mannerism, reckless shot making, erratic running, directionless bowling and unimaginative captaincy continue to dominate the team’s mediocrity with unwavering frequency.

Simply, the writing must be on the wall for a value for money approach. The West Indian players are among the highest paid professionals, yet the individual and team ratings are among the lowest. It is time that a quota system is implemented whereby players should be paid based on performance. I suppose this may create another imminent strike, but would it matter? The players are now being paid to train, yet the gains have been painstaking and infrequent to be considered acceptable. The West Indian players must be held accountable and match pay with play!

Elroy Stephney

How dare you DEAR EDITOR, As I read the newspaper this morning (Thursday) I happen to stumble across an article with the National Sports Commission (NSC) head Mr. Neil Kumar. I read this article several times to try to make sense of what he is really trying to say and after that I made a few calls to some of my friends who reside overseas here in the United States of America like myself and as we are doing a conference call we all are trying to understand what is Mr. Neil Kumar trying to say especially in terms of track and field. Bear in mind that this government and I say this government should never ever try to take any credit much less try to say they contribute to Track and Field in Guyana, period.

Now Mr. Kumar let me start by educating you that first of all the ground at Lenora is too close to the sea, the wind factor will see many times run by athletes not being ratified simply because of the high tail

wind which will be over the allowable speed that the IAAF recognises. Secondly, as we all know the placement of the ground was a political move with the intent of Ed Ahmad’s proposed housing scheme going around there it would fit in so wonderful, but now things look bleak since his money is being seized according to court documents.

Anyway Mr. Kumar, how much have you guys put into track and field; where did the money go, do you know how those athletes get money to travel and go overseas, how they get meals to eat? Thanks to the GOA a lot would never have been possible.

Mr. Kumar I am talking because I support the local athletes in Guyana in several ways that I would not mentioned at this point in time and this is simply because what I did, was done from my heart not for fame or mileage. I saw the need and instead of talking as people normally do I put my shoulders to the wheel, so while Mr. Kumar

want to talk about things please leave the coaches out because you Mr. Kumar don’t have a clue of what those coaches go through to get those athletes where they are today. Where they get money from, how some of those athletes get to and from practice and to track meets; so STOP! STOP! and don’t even try to say a word about anything when it comes to track and field in Guyana.

There is more I would like to say but there is not enough space for me to do it, so I will leave this little reminder; thanks to all those in Guyana who spend their hard earned money getting these athletes to and from practice, track meets, road races and helping out parents who cannot afford to send their kids places. Thanks to all you coaches who know themselves and know me.

Have a happy new year and continue to do your job because you love track and field in Guyana, thanks for keeping it alive and kicking.

Andy King

Min. Westford is Patron of Silver Jubilee Anniversary Celebrations

Students who were rewarded by the Club From page 32 transformation of the Area ‘H’ ground from swamp land into a modern sports venue, restoration of the Rose Hall Town Kiddies corner, putting up of signs for every street in Rose Hall Town, restoration of the Lower Corentyne Secondary School in 1991/1992, assisting numerous schools and churches with community projects and raising $1M to construct an all weather court in 1998.

The Club’s Charity programme on an annual basis distributes over $5M worth of items to less fortunate families and also assists hundreds

of students to remain in school to obtain an educational background.

The Club also has its own Television programme, publishes an annual review magazine, Hall of Fame, publish regular educational leaflets, booklets and posters on topics of importance to youths as well as produce television commercials on the importance of education and the Say No to Drugs message.

Each year over $1M worth of school bags are also shared out to less fortunate students.

Among the numerous activities hosted by the Club are the Ansa McAl Award of Excel-

lence, Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Award, weekly feeding of the poor, Tribute to Heroes, Patricia Benn Educational Award Scheme, Tribute to Head Teachers, Tribute to Retired Teachers, Republic Bank Summer Camp, TCL Cricket Academy, Mother of the Year, Father of the Year, Republic Bank Scrabble Tournament, monthly hampers for families, Busta Champion of Champions Tournament, GBTI Inter-Secondary School Cricket Tournament, Western Union Junior Ambassador Programme, Basil Butcher Junior Cricketer

Programme, Teacher of the Term, Annual Awards Ceremony, Senior Citizens Luncheon, Lower Corentyne Outstanding Students Awards and Club Trust Fund.

The success of the club, according to Foster has been due to hard work, discipline, a strong faith in God, visionary leadership and a strong belief in serving others.

Over the past 15 years, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club has made it a policy to come up with a new idea every month and working to make it reality.

The support of countless sponsors and donors

has also played a major role in the club’s success story and while they are too many to mention, they have singled out Courts, GT&T, Farfan & Mendes Ltd, Demerara Distillers Limited, Gizmos & Gadgets, Ansa McAl, Busta, John Fernandes Ltd, Bakewell, Beharry’s, Sterling Products, NAMILCO, New GPC, Banks DIH Ltd, Sentinel Security, A. Ally & Sons, GTM, Hand-in-Hand, TCL, Republic Bank, GBTI, DTV-8, Scotia Bank, Metro and Food-for-the-Poor for special mention.

Minister of Public Service Ms Jennifer Westford will

serve as Patron of the Club’s Silver Jubilee Anniversary Celebration while Ms Beverley Harper continues in her capacity as the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club Honorary Patron.

The yearlong celebrations to commemorate this achievement were officially unveiled with a religious service at the St. Joseph Anglican Church and a multi-million Christmas Charity Programme.

Among some of the special activities planned for the Silver Jubilee celebration are a Silver Jubilee Dinner and Awards Presentation Ceremony, a special 25th Anniversary Magazine, construction of anti-suicide billboards across Berbice, Tribute to Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Clubs Heroes, an 80 team second division tournament, Berbice essay competition, spelling bee and debating competitions, educational scholarships to less fortunate students, a medical outreach programme, musical evening and the hosting of inter-secondary school competitions in cricket, basketball, volleyball, scrabble and chess.

Former Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club members are invited to be part of the Silver Jubilee and can call the club office on Telephone Number 337 4562 or email: foster_hilbert@yahoo.com for more information.

Saturday January 10, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 29

Kenya issues new anti-doping Yaya Toure wins fourth African rules amid failed test reports Player of the Year title in a row

Yaya Toure (right) wins his fourth African Player of the Year title. (getty images)

Rita Jeptoo is due to appear before an Athletics Kenya Doping commission. (AP) BBC Sport - Sports authorities in Kenya have announced a wide range of anti-doping measures, after a number of prominent Kenyan athletes failed drugs tests.

Governing body Athletics Kenya will conduct more doping tests, including out of competition checks.

President Isaiah Kiplagat told the BBC agents and coaches could be banned for life and face criminal prosecution should their athletes fail tests.

At least 38 Kenyan athletes are believed to have failed drug tests.

The new rules have been released ahead of three-time Boston Marathon champion Rita Jeptoo’s appearance

before an Athletics Kenya Doping commission.

Jeptoo, 33, failed an out of competition test in September and is among a dozen Kenyan athletes under investigation for doping. Her case will be heard in Nairobi on Thursday. Kiplagat said moving forward, no athlete would be allowed to compete in any event without proper registration with the federation.

“If an athlete is found culpable, they will be banned in accordance with the new rules - which extend to four years,” he said.

“Agents will also be removed and they must be sanctioned.

“In fact for agents it’s easier, because if you’re the one who injected or found to have been contributing towards persuading the athletes to take banned substances, that’s a criminal offence.

“While athletes can be banned for four years, agents can go to jail.”

Elite athletes will also be issued with biological passports to test their blood and urine samples monthly.

Agents, managers and coaches will also be required to register with Athletics Kenya and provide a list of all athletes they manage or coach.

Fifa candidate Jerome Champagne doubts hopes of replacing Blatter

BBC Sport - Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has become the first player to be named Confederation of African Football African Footballer of the Year four years in a row.

Toure, 31, was nominated after playing a pivotal role in winning the Premier League and League Cup. He also helped Ivory Coast qualify for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

Toure beat off the challenge of Gabon striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama.

Midfielder Toure scored 20 goals in City’s title-winning campaign and also netted the equaliser in the 3-1 Capital One Cup final victory over Sunderland at Wembley last March.

He has nine goals in 26 appearances for City in all competitions so far this season, including six goals in his last nine outings.

Toure also made the Fifa shortlist for the 2014 Ballon D’Or prize in October.

However, he has also had to contend with the disappointment of being part of an Ivory Coast side that lost two out of their three World Cup games. He was given the news of his brother

Ibrahim’s death only hours after the team lost their second World Cup match 2-1 to Colombia.

He also hit the headlines in May as a row over a birthday cake threatened to bring an end to his Manchester City career.

Everton striker Samuel Eto’o is the only other player to win the African Footballer of the Year award four times but his achievement was not in successive years.

Full list of winners: · African Player of the Year: Yaya Toure (Ivory Coast and Manchester City) · African Player of the Year - Based in Africa: Firmin Mubele Ndombe (DR Congo and AS Vita) · Women’s Player of the Year: Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria and River Angels) · Youth Player of the Year: Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria and River Angels) · Most Promising Talent: Yacine Brahimi (Algeria and Porto) · Coach of the Year: Kheireddine Madoui (Entente Setif) · National Team of the Year: Algeria · Women’s National Team of the Year: Nigeria · Club of the Year: Entente Setif (Algeria)

· Referee of the Year: Papa Bakary Gassama (Gambia) · Football Leader of the Year: Moise Katumbi President of TP Mazembe (DR Congo) ·African Legend award: Oryx Club (Cameroon) winners of the maiden edition of CAF Champions League 1964 and Stade Malien (Mali) - runner up of the maiden edition of CAF Champion’s League 1964 · Platinum Award: Dr Kwame Nkrumah (First President of Ghana) and His Excellency Goodluck Jonthan (President of Nigeria) · CAF team of the 2014: Goalkeeper: Vincent Enyeama (Nigeria) Defenders: Jean Kasulula (DR Congo), Mehdi Benatia (Morocco), Stephane Mbia (Cameroon), Kwadwo Asamoah (Ghana) Midfielders: Yaya Toure (Ivory Coast), Yacine Brahimi (Algeria), Fakhreddine Ben Youssef (Tunisia), Ahmed Musa (Nigeria) Forwards: Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon) Substitutes: Raïs M’Bolhi (Algeria), Firmin Mubele Ndombe (DR Congo), Ferdjani Sassi (Tunisia), Gervinho (Ivory Coast), Abdelrahman Fetori (Libya), Akram Djahnit (Algeria), Roger Assalé (Ivory Coast)

East Canje Knights demolish New Amsterdam Warriors in Banks DIH B/ball Classic Jerome Champagne (Getty Images) BBC Sport - One of the two men aiming to challenge Sepp Blatter as president of football’s world governing body Fifa is not confident of securing enough support.

Jerome Champagne and Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein hope to rival Blatter, 78, who is seeking a fifth term in office.

A candidate needs to secure five nominations from Fifa’s 209 members to take part in the election on 29 May. “I would say that it’s

easier to get 50 votes than five letters of support,” said 56-year-old Frenchman Champagne.

“There’s a lot of fear, sometimes pressure. I’m discussing with a lot of federations to get these letters. If I have five letters by 29 January I will compete and if I don’t, I will say ‘I don’t have them’.

“A person who is not prepared to lose an election is someone who should never run for election. I’m not the

kind of arrogant guy who said ‘I’m bound to win’.”

Champagne announced his candidacy in January 2014 and his plans include proposed quotas on foreign players and changes to football’s rules.

Prince Ali, president of Jordanian football since 1999, revealed his intention to stand on Monday, although Blatter, who has been Fifa president since 1998, is the favourite to retain his position in May.

East Canje Knights were well prepared for battle and fought every second of their encounter to overcome a battle wary New Amsterdam Warriors to book their place in the final of the Banks DIH Classic Basketball competition when the two teams met in the semi-final game played last Wednesday at the Vryman’s Erven Basketball court in New Amsterdam.

The Knights will now meet the Smythfield Rockers in the final slated for tomorrow at the same venue.

In fact the Knights started

slowly, but showed fight and never let up although they trailed for most of the match, but were able to wear down the Warriors in the end for a slim come from behind one point win. The Warriors were out fast and took an early lead, but were unable to shake off the persistent Knights.

By the end of the first quarter the Warriors were in the lead at 16-11. They extended that lead to 35-21 at the half way stage.

In the third quarter the Knights were beginning to find their range as they fought back to trail 47-40.

The score was 56-59 with minutes remaining as the Knights chipped away for the nail biting 60-59 win.

Keon Emanuel with 16 and Steve Roopnarine with 15 points led the charge for the Knights.

The Warriors battle was a virtual one man show with Randy Caesar leading with a game high 29 points.

The final will be played tomorrow at the Vryman’s Erven basketball court in New Amsterdam. Tip off time is 16:00hrs. At stake are cash incentives and trophies. The organiser is Vibert Garrett.

Page 30

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 10, 2015

NBA roundup: Hawks rip WICB, ESPN sign NAGICO Super50 deal Grizzlies for sixth straight win

WICB Media - ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board has announced that ESPN Caribbean has acquired exclusive media rights to bring “live” coverage of the region’s premier One-day tournament, the NAGICO Super50, to the Caribbean audience until 2018.

The agreement commences with this year’s edition, held once again in Trinidad & Tobago from January 15 to 25.

All nine matches from the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad will air “live” on the ESPN Caribbean and ESPN 2 Caribbean television networks, as well as on ESPN Play (www.espnplay.com) — ESPN’s multi-screen live and on-demand broadband service.

Matches will also be available to cricket fans live and on-demand in the United States via ESPN3, ESPN’s live multi-screen sports network accessible on computers, smartphones, tablets, Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, Xbox 360 and Xbox One. Highlights will also air the following day on ESPN networks, Caribbean Media Corporation partner stations and www.windiescricket.com.

Director of Programming, ESPN International, Scott McGlone said: “We are pleased to extend our relationship with the WICB who are a highly valued partner in the Caribbean.

The NAGICO Super50 is an important part of our cricket offering, allowing us to bring Caribbean fans the very best local events along with top international cricket including the ICC Cricket World Cup coming up in February and March.”

WICB Commercial Manager Nelecia Yeates said: “We are delighted to continue our relationship with ESPN for another four years which

means we will continue to give our players and West Indies cricket further exposure. ESPN continues to show its commitment to growth of cricket in the Caribbean and together we hope to build on the sport’s place in the consciousness of our fans everywhere, as the WICB works hard to restore the rich legacy of West Indies cricket.”

The NS50 is the WICB’s premier limited-overs event featuring their six franchise teams from the Professional Cricket League.

Defending champions, Barbados Pride, head Group A along with Guyana Jaguars, Windward Islands Volcanoes and Combined Campuses and Colleges.

Group B consists of last year’s beaten finalist and host nation, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, as well as Leeward Islands Hurricanes, the Jamaica Franchise and the West Indies Under-19s, who are preparing for the 2016 ICC Under-19 World Cup. Matches will be also played at the National Cricket Centre in Trinidad, as well as Shaw Park in Tobago.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, held on January 22 and 23, with the Grand Final scheduled for January 25; all at the Oval.

This tournament serves as a prelude to the West Indies’ campaign in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, which will also be broadcast exclusively by ESPN Caribbean in February 2014.

Follow all of the NAGICO Super50 at #WindiesRegional and #ESPNS50 as the WICB and ESPN Caribbean continues to work together to connect the region’s cricket fans with the sport they love.

SCHEDULE OF MATCHES: GROUP “A” – Barbados Pride, Combined Campuses &

Colleges, Guyana Jaguars, Windward Islands Volcanoes GROUP “B” – Jamaica Franchise, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, Trinidad & Tobago Red Force, West Indies Under-19s Thursday, January 15 Pride vs CCC – National Cricket Centre (9 a.m. start) Volcanoes vs Jaguars – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Friday, January 16 Red Force vs Windies Under-19s – Shaw Park (9 a.m. start) Jamaica Franchise vs Hurricanes – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Saturday, January 17 Volcanoes vs CCC – National Cricket Centre (9 a.m. start) Jaguars vs Pride – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Sunday, January 18 Hurricanes vs Windies Under-19s – National Cricket Centre (9 a.m. start) Red Force vs Jamaica Franchise – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Monday, January 19 Volcanoes vs Pride – Shaw Park (9 a.m. start) Jaguars vs CCC – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Tuesday, January 20 Jamaica Franchise vs Windies Under-19s – National Cricket Centre (9 a.m. start) Red Force vs Hurricanes – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Thursday, January 22 1st semi-final: Winner Zone A vs Runner-up Zone B – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Friday, January 23 2nd semi-final: Winner Zone B vs Runner-up Zone A – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Sunday, January 25 Grand Final: Winner Semifinal 1 vs Winner Semi-final 2 – Queen’s Park Oval (1:30 p.m. start) Monday, January 26 Reserve day

DeMarre Carroll #5 of the Atlanta Hawks and Marc Gasol #33 of the Memphis Grizzlies battle for a rebound at Philips Arena on January 7, 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images) Associated Press ATLANTA — Jeff Teague scored 25 points, and the Atlanta Hawks beat the Memphis Grizzlies 96-86 on Wednesday night for their sixth consecutive win.

Atlanta has won 20 of 22 overall. The Eastern Conference-leading Hawks also have a nine-game winning streak against teams from the West.

The Hawks grabbed control with a 10-0 run following an 84-all tie. Al Horford, who had 12 points, started the run with a jumper.

Teague and Kyle Korver followed with 3-pointers and Teague added another basket for a 94-84 lead.

Mike Conley led Memphis with 17 points. Marc Gasol had 16.

Korver had 14 points and Pero Antic added 13 for Atlanta.

ROCKETS 105, CAVALIERS 93 CLEVELAND (AP) — James Harden scored 21 points, Dwight Howard had 17 points and 19 rebounds,

and Houston roared past Cleveland in the fourth quarter.

The Cavaliers played their sixth straight game without LeBron James. The four-time NBA MVP said he’s on target to return in a week from a strained back and knee.

The Rockets handed the Cavs their seventh loss in nine games.

Kyrie Irving scored a season-high 38 points for the Cavs, who lost their fourth straight at home. J.R. Smith didn’t score in 19 minutes in his Cleveland debut. The unpredictable guard was acquired earlier in the week from the Knicks along with guard Iman Shumpert.

During the game, the Cavs pulled off their second big trade in three days, acquiring 7-foot-1 centre Timofey Mozgov from Denver in exchange for two first-round draft picks.

HORNETS 98, PELICANS 94 CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Kemba Walker scored 31 points, including a tiebreaking

three-point play with 1.4 seconds left, and Charlotte earned its third consecutive win.

Walker drove the right side of the lane and converted an 11-foot jumper after Jrue Holiday hit him on the arm.

Walker then made the foul shot for a 97-94 lead.

The Pelicans had one last chance to tie, but Marvin Williams stole the inbounds pass at half court and was fouled. He went 1 for 2 at the line to seal the victory.

Anthony Davis had 32 points, 12 rebounds and four blocks for New Orleans.

WIZARDS 101, KNICKS 91 WASHINGTON (AP) — The Knicks set a record for longest in-season slide in the proud franchise’s 69-year history.

The defeat was the Knicks’ 13th in a row, surpassing the mark set at the end of the 1984-85 season, and their 23rd in 24 games. It featured all the now-familiar follies and a few new ones: Continued on page 27

A number of changes have been made to the original programme of the Budhan Memorial Turf Club race meet set for tomorrow at the club’s track No.66 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

Six races are now set for the day with all the races now six furlongs events.

The J class event is now the feature race with the winner set to run away with a $130,000 and trophy. There

are two races for animals classified K and lower with the winning take in both instances being $70,000 and trophy.

The horses classified L and lower will also have two races at their disposal with the winners on both occasions set to carry away $40,000 and trophy.

The horses that would not have placed during the day would have their chances to

compete in a specially arranged event with the winning amount to be decided on race day.

According to organizers Neville and Andrew Budhan the track is in excellent condition and over 40 animals have been entered to compete so far. In addition to that a new starting gate should be in place to accommodate more horses. Race time is 13:00 hrs.

Changes made to Budhan Memorial Turf Club Meet tomorrow