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Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Seeking meaningful constitutional change In Guyana as in other countries, democracy is a work in progress. There are different models of democracy; none of which is without some shortcomings. The model propagated by the Western world is electoral democracy, which, with all its imperfections, is still the closest thing to the ideal democracy to which freedom-loving people aspire to have to protect their rights. Unfortunately, in the last three decades, and most conspicuously in recent years, democracy was continuously threatened and degraded by the near absolute power bequeathed to the Executive President of Guyana by the Constitution. However, to protect the people from abuse by the executive office, and to insulate democracy from its anti-democratic tendencies, there are institutional checks and balances built into the constitution in the form of the judiciary and parliament, which is freely elected by the people. But the institutional arrangements have been infiltrated, misused and abused on numerous occasions to the point where some of the fundamental rights and freedoms granted to the people by the Constitution have been abrogated. Obsessed with and addicted to power, the power brokers gradually but systematically manipulated the principles of the Constitution and in the process have undermined the practice of democracy. Not only did they disregard the will of the people, who are the ultimate guardians of democracy, but they have also shown total contempt. The former administration used the constitution to its advantage to control almost every facet of government departments and state agencies in order to have a firmer grip over the people. Mostly members, supporters and friends were given government jobs and contracts and access to state resources. The public discontent with the Constitution undoubtedly stems from the powers and immunities it grants to the executive president. These powers are often not reviewable by the courts and even if they are challenged legally, they are not likely to prevail. The separation of powers granted to each of the three branches of the government is an essential feature of most modern constitutions and democracies. It is premised on the idea that executive decisions should not be subordinate to, or second guessed by, the courts. While reforming the constitution is urgently required, the issue of good governance should not be premised merely on reform, but more importantly, on respecting the constitution and the instruments that guide public conduct. Nonetheless, the constitution works best when the people elect the right persons to govern them. Since its election to office, the government has seemingly set the bar very high in terms of good governance, but judging from the ongoing public debate, there is apparently an overly ambitious attempt to reconcile the public’s right to information and the need for accountability and transparency. Empowerment of the people would require meaningful Constitution reform to provide autonomy or absolute independence to a number of institutions. As Guyana approaches its 50th Independence anniversary, an enlightened public should not have to contend with the illogical confines of a Constitution which not only places the President above the law but also gives him supreme authority over the people and the country. When in opposition, the PPP had bemoaned the near absolute power granted to the President and had labelled the Constitution the “Burnham Constitution”. After assuming power, the constitution was no longer deemed oppressive. Instead it became synonymous with, and facilitated underhandedness, deception and a sense of entitlement. Not only was the constitution misused, but it was counterproductive to nation-building. With the many years of repression having taken its toll in no uncertain terms, it is time for us to get past this divisiveness and selfishness and support every possible effort to reform the Constitution.
Friday January 29, 2016
Letters... Where your views make the news
Even mild corporate punishment is unacceptable DEAR EDITOR, The subject of corporal punishment is proving to be controversial in Guyana, for several reasons. One is that the definition of corporal punishment is different for each individual, for example some would call it child abuse and others would say it’s a necessary practice in order to teach discipline to school children. However, history can teach us so much if we could just allow our minds to stay open for a moment and critically look at what once was, and maybe it would shed some light on this debate of whether to abolish corporal punishment from schools in Guyana or not. According to the Child Abuse Statistics, it should be difficult for anyone who would like the best for any child to support corporal punishment as a means of teaching discipline to school children. Eighty percent of prisoners in
the United States were abused as children or raised in abusive homes. The more children are beaten in any form, the more anger they report as adults, the more they are to use beating on their own children, the more likely they are to approve of beating or hitting a spouse or partner, and the more marital conflict they experience as adults. Children who are beaten frequently at age three are more likely to be aggressive when they’re five, even when you account for probable perplexing factors. Signs of aggression included behaviors such as arguing or screaming; cruelty, bullying or meanness to others; destroying things; fighting and frequently with classmates or friends; threatening people. The evidence would show that even minor forms of corporal punishment increases the risk for child aggressive behavior. Actions causing pain such as
beating a child can acquire a positive value rather than the intended aversive value. Children who are expecting pain may actually search for it through escalating misbehaviors. Corporal punishment is no more effective as a long-term strategy than other approaches, and the reliance on corporal punishment as a discipline approach makes other discipline strategies less effective to use over time. I am positive that if there were more research done or available in Guyana on corporal punishment and its long-term effects children, the findings might be unsettling for most to digest. His Excellency President David Granger stated “look for the causes-to meaningfully address domestic violence”. Those were the words of President Granger as he addressed the people attending a workshop held at the (Continued on page 31)
Sugar and politics have always been closely connected DEAR EDITOR, I thought it was very strange when the high powered Guyuco COI arrived at their conclusion that privatization was the solution to the interminable woes of the industry. However, I was relieved when the President stated that Government had no obligation to fully conform with GuySuCo s recommendations. “The COI is not gospel.” He said, “We have practical measures to consider and in the case of Wales it is very practical to close the estate.” And in the same breath the President stated, “Maybe it is an opportunity for a wider application of the principle of peasant cane farming. So it is not as if the sugar industry is in jeopardy but I believe that peasant cane farmers can take up the land and that has been tried already in some parts of West
Demerara.” From these statements it can be deduced that:(1) It is definite that Wa l e s E s t a t e ( f a c t o r y a n d administrative office) will be closed; and, (2) no feasible decision has yet been made regarding (a) the “redundant” or displaced labor, (b) peasant cane farming, and (c) the land. Both the COI recommendations and the President’s statements leave one to wonder to what extent, if any at all, that the principles of development economics (not to be confused with economic development) and agriculture economics are being employed in policy and decision making. It is also disturbing that politics (it appears) is again playing a major role in decision making. True, politics has always been synonymous with sugar in Guyana and in most parts of the world. Below the
sweet surface of sugar is the bitter taste of politics, local and international. Ironically, politics has been the downfall of sugar. The decision to invest US $200 million in Skeldon and contract it out to the Chinese was more political than economic. And now we are tasting the bitter reality. I can only hope that decision makers would avoid this pitfall and be more rational and nationalistic, and employ more economic principles in charting a new course for Guysuco, and specifically, the principles of development economics. Development economics is about restructuring and transformation of the means, forces and relations of production as well as markets; hence it incorporates social and political factors to devise particular plans. The use of (Continued on page 31)
The reason for the drug shortage DEAR EDITOR, The concept of supply chain is little known to anyone as a profession much less a practical approach and it is the reason for our current drug shortages. There are very few in Guyana that practices this profession and even if they do, it is not in its entirety. In 2010 Guyana was named by the Amazon Malaria Initiative as having one of the best public drug supply system in South and Latin America, which proves that we had that ability. During the period 2007 to 2011 all non-life saving drugs was at 85% to 90% availability in all health facilities and lifesaving drugs were 100% available for 95% of a calendar year. This was the best it has ever been in Guyana’s history and it was because of a special focus on building a strong supply chain system, which unfortunately never continued after
2011. Regardless of the criticism on sole sourcing, it was a mechanism that was put in place to save guard our health system from chronic shortages similar to what we are experiencing now. However, it should not be the only mechanism in place, since it is also necessary to develop other suppliers in country so that there are options. Minister Norton who was then shadow Minister of Health when the PPP was in power believed that everything that is wrong with drug supply was due to sole sourcing, as such he had promised that by stopping that practice, shortages would be solved. Today we see that there are more shortages than ever before. The Government must acknowledge that they are not yet equip to solve this problem alone and they should seek support from technical persons in the field of supply chain. I believe health
care should be non-political and everyone should support the Government on this. It is not simply about buying more drugs and supplies, instead it requires a multi prong approach that should be implemented systemically throughout the supply chain. This takes time to build and it is a very fragile system to maintain in rich countries, much less a country like ours. The US Government under their PEPFAR program has been supporting us for 10 years mainly in the field of HIV/AIDS drugs and it has proven successful, but this is a small fraction of the health supply system and it is easier to manage. There is urgent need for this system to be the way it was back in 2007-2011 and improve thereafter but it will have to be a bi-partisan issue. Malcolm Watkins
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
Mr. Bruce disagrees with Mr. Ramkarran
DEAR EDITOR, In SN’s edition of Monday January 18,2016, “Jagdeo and Arrogance to blame for PPP/ C Loss” by Mr Ralph Ramkarran. Mr Ramkarran enough already, ok enough already. This eight month long post mortem that you are engaged in is running thin. Believe me its running thin. You really would like us to believe that it is because of Jagdeo’s and the party’s arrogance coming from the very top that was responsible for the PPP/C losing the election of 2015. What are we really talking about here, Mr Ramkarran? In the short term the PPP had no credibility and the long term they had only one leg to stand on- the ethnic divide. You will take all of the miss directions, and outright deceptions from people who governed for 23 years, and reduce that visionless group incompetence to Jagdeo and arrogance, is trivializing the debacle. According to you, “the PPP leadership, in thrall to Mr Jagdeo, mistakenly felt that its supporters would accept anything thrown at them.” Now why would the PPP supporters take anything thrown at them? Of course in Mr Jagdeo’s universe I am asking the obvious. But if you can muster the courage to tell me what intelligent political legislation was laid in the Parliament during their tenure, I would be willing to listen. I am learning everyday via the newspapers, what they did to this country. That notwithstanding you seem to have a very short memory, you forgot who sweetened the pot for the sugar workers, so sweet that it has turned bitter now. That was not arrogance that was a policy decision. And all the
other policy decisions that were made over the last 23 years that cost suffering and sometimes confrontation with the poorer populace, while millions of tax dollars get siphoned off to friends and relatives. And in the final analysis nothing tangible ever materialized. You said that “all those who raised questions, and felt that the PPP would rule forever.” Now why should the PPP feel that they should rule this country forever? What are their criteria? Because of ethnic numbers? That was not arrogance; that was knowing the cards that you hold. It is called confidence. Instead of using the words Jagdeo and arrogance as the reason, for the PPP losing the election here are two more words, “poor governance,” and two more “unintelligent governance.” Could it have been any other way with the crew that was in charge? It astonishes me to know that with all of the reprehensible doings of the past PPP administration that Mr Ramkarran would put down these acts to Jagdeo and ar-
rogance; is in fact arrogance on your part Mr Ramkarran. There was a Minister who was praying or wishing for an epidemic to descend upon the city. I know why, but I would not ask you why? Mr Ramkarran. Another Minister boasted that he does do bad things. And still another Minister carried on a very disturbing and disgusting conversation on the telephone with a journalist. All of the above was not caused by Jagdeo and arrogance but stupidity. And don’t let us forget the Town Clerk fiasco, ordered and driven by the PPP administration. But what it all boils down to with you Mr Ramkarran is that you would like to go back home, yes, and don’t you deny it. Home is where the heart is. You miss the loop, the old squaddies Gail, Clement Donald, Indira and the rest of the gang. But if you are waiting on a gold plated invite think again. Of course you are too big to beg, but then who knows what the future holds. Milton Bruce
War may break out at City Hall after the LGE
DEAR EDITOR It seems like the fight is on. With the nominations for Local Government Elections all turned in, battle lines have been now been drawn. And it does not look good. I witnessed what took place on Nomination Day. The young people with their animated supporters were out in their numbers and the fighting rhetoric has begun. Divisive terms like “little axe to cut down big trees,” or “it is young people’ time” are been repeatedly and forcefully bantered about. The ammunition seems to be hurled at any and every one who is older than 30 years. It seems like those of the younger generation want to send the current administration a message. The talk is that the youths were not sufficiently represented in the administration at the national level, so with the easy possibility of access to administration at the local levels, the youths have upped the ante. They are spouting that it the youths who helped bring the current administration
into government and it is the youths who will unseat the current attempts of the ‘oldheads’ to get back into the councilors’ positions. They seem convinced that the Mayors, at least the Mayor of Georgetown, should be a youth. However, the reason I say that this kind of angry rhetoric does not sound good, is because of what it can lead to. It can lead to another divisive body at the municipal level. Already the country is observing the vitriol and the hatred and non-cooperation that are obtaining in the National Assembly. Now the youths are saying that it is their turn to ‘run things’. Imagine for a brief moment if one of the ‘oldheads’ wins the Mayorship. It sounds like it would be war. If the trend holds, especially with the younger folks more excited about the Local Government Elections, the councilors will be made up of a significant amount of youths. However, because of the proportional representation aspect of the elections, the larger parties will have coun-
cilors who are not likely to be youths. This could be a recipe for administrative disaster at the local level. As an ‘old-head’ independent candidate, I would like to see the divisive rhetoric turned down because it is a non-starter. Frankly, I applaud the interest and the organization of the youths and their groups. They are young people in leadership all over the world. However, if we begin with a fight it is obvious that nothing much, if anything, will get done at the local level. Heaven knows, we cannot afford to replicate at the local government level, the warring and verbal slaughtering which now obtain at the national level. Guyana can ill afford that. Pastor W. P. Jeffrey Independent Candidate 8th Constituency
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Friday January 29, 2016
ExxonMobil readies to drill second well By Mondale Smith Having been satisfied that Guyana does have oil several months ago, Exxon Mobil is once again preparing to drill yet another well close to the location where the first reserve was found. The second well, for which drilling should begin in a matter of weeks, is to ascertain the width and depth of the reservoir, said Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman after a preliminary tour of the onshore materials holding area at the Wieting & Richter Ltd wharf leased by John Fernandes, on Water Street. A ministerial team and ExxonMobil executives and other officials visited the Kingston holding area yesterday. They confirmed that the drilling vessel is already on spot off the coast of Guyana having arrived several days ago. Minister Trotman and ExxonMobil Country manager, Jeff Simons, have assured that drilling will commence in a few weeks time. “They are going to be drilling a number of wells within the Stabroek Block. The second well will be drilled in a few weeks’ time…before March,” Trotman said. Aside from Natural Resources Minister Trotman, the other team members who toured the Kingston location were Minister of Public Infrastructure David
A Ministerial team along with ExxonMobil executives and other officials touring the Kingston onshore holding area for materials to be used for the second oil well. Patterson and Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin, who have vested interest in the development of the Oil and Gas sector. This project will ultimately entail construction, jobs and local content which will ensure that Guyanese are aware of what is happening and have share of all that is happening as it unfolds. “HAVE CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM,” SAYS TROTMAN “With these things, you have to have cautious optimism, not to get carried away…It’s good because its bringing jobs, more people have to be transported and housed and it also says that Guyana is headed into something new and better in the years ahead,” Trotman said. That ExxonMobil is in
Guyana making such major preparation shows the confidence that there is oil out there as the operation will cost millions of US dollars. “To float an exploratory rig into Guyana’s waters at a cost of close to US$1Million per day to maintain, is proof that they believe that there is something there and that we should all be expecting something good to come of it.” When asked how soon before Guyanese will begin being employed in a major way, Minister Trotman said that the process takes time. This would include personnel being trained and educated on engineering, welding, and construction. In a matter of years Guyana and Guyanese will see the benefits. Jeff Simons, ExxonMobil Country Manager, echoing cautious optimism about the second drilling said that his company is in the process of appraising the lesser discovery. All the materials currently at the holding location will be used to
support the exercise in the Guyana waters. “This well hopefully will give us a much better idea of the potential of the discovery.” The first well was drilled about 110 miles offshore in the Stabroek Block. The second well is relatively close to that one, in what ExxonMobil hopes will be a different part of the accumulated area, to help better understand what the resources potential are. When asked for clarity on how many more wells must be drilled before arriving at the level of actual business, Simons said, “We are hoping that if things come in as we
believe they will, there will be a number of wells, and if we keep being surprised it may take just several more wells to be where we want to be.”. Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson after the tour dubbed the holding site and progress being made as “quite impressive.” Noting that he has been pushing for more local cooperation and collaboration, he said that he is encouraged by the collaboration between local players Wieting & Richter Ltd and John Fernandes as well as ExxonMobil. “We can’t be bypassed in this very important pre-oil production process. We are heartened by the technology
moving apace which shows us the potential that the well has.” He said too that while ExxonMobil could have taken more time before pursuing further drilling exploration, he is encouraged and is optimistic that Guyana will soon see revenues being gained by the venture. “Optimism grows even as a second well is about to be drilled. The next site visit is a few weeks away on board the vessel which as a precursor to drilling has to be anchored and lined up with the GPS system to ensure that it’s exactly on spot.” The first well titled the Leezer 1 was drilled in May of 2015.
LIAT removes fuel surcharges
Antigua – LIAT has announced the complete removal of fuel surcharges on all new tickets booked, effective 1st March, 2016. Chief Executive Officer, David Evans, said oil is now trading at a 12-year low, ending a decade of high jet fuel costs, which has impacted the price of tickets. “We are committed to offering our customers the most affordable fares so our finance team regularly reviews the fuel surcharge levels and whenever changes are decided upon we
announce them to the market,” Evans said. “In this vein, we reduced the fuel surcharge by 50 percent at the beginning of 2015 and it will now be completely removed from March 2016. This will mean that fares will fall by an average of 5 percent. So, beginning 1st March, customers will only have to pay the airfare and any applicable airport and government taxes when they book a flight.” While the price of oil has been trending downwards,
Evans explained, the effects of crude oil price reductions take some time to impact on the cost of aviation fuel. “The jet fuel price to LIAT is on average 90 percent higher than the crude price and it takes on average three to six months for the crude oil price reductions to be applied in the region,” he said. Evans said the surge in oil prices since 2003 had turned fuel into one of LIAT’s largest costs. The regional airline flies to Guyana and a number of other destinations in the Caribbean.
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
Britain’s unions ready to join fight to stay in European Union, top official says Frances O’Grady
LONDON - Britain’s trade unions are close to joining the push to keep the country in the European Union, bringing grass-roots muscle to a fight that has so far been dominated by big business and bankers, the head of the country’s largest union group said.Unions will fight to stay in, emphasising jobs and workers’ rights, Frances O’Grady, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress, told Reuters in an interview. Voters were not yet listening to the arguments because the campaign to date has had little to do with their everyday lives, she said. “There is a real danger that this campaign is turning into a debate between elites funded by the big banks on the one hand and hedge funds on the other,” O’Grady said, referring to some of the main financiers of the rival camps. Opinion polls suggest voters are split almost 50-50 on whether to pull Britain out of the EU in a vote which Prime Minister David Cameron is likely to schedule for later this year. “What we need to do is start putting rights and jobs centre stage in the campaign debate,” O’Grady said. “The bulk of the rights at work that matter to us originated in Europe.” Britain has around 6 million union members, half the number of the late 1970s. But the TUC, which represents most unions, remains a political force with close ties to the opposition Labour Party which is broadly supportive of EU membership. In a referendum in 1975, the TUC campaigned to get Britain out of what was then
European Economic Community. But it turned pro-Europe in the 1980s when Brussels promised to combine the allure for business of a single European market with strong protections for workers, something that contrasted with the bitter industrial conflict raging at the time between unions and former prime minister Margaret Thatcher. Last year, the TUC held off from promising to fight to keep Britain in the EU in protest at signs that Cameron wanted to water down the bloc’s so-called Social Chapter incorporating workers’ rights before he called the EU membership referendum. O’Grady said she was now confident that a weakening of protections such as guaranteed paid holidays and parental leave and health and safety rules would not be among the reforms Cameron is expected to clinch with other EU leaders next month. That means that all but a few of the 52 unions represented by the TUC are likely to urge voters to stay in the EU. The EU-mandated protections for workers would be at risk if Britain votes to leave the EU. Many lawmakers in Cameron’s Conservative Party resent them as an embodiment of EU over-reach into the affairs of member states.
For the TUC, by contrast, they are sacrosanct. “A Brexit would have massive implications for jobs, rights, and the very fabric of the UK,” O’Grady said, referring to a possible British exit. “If you take that floor away, workers will be worse off. It’s a hell of a gamble for those, who want to leave Europe, to depend on particularly the government we have now to protect the rights on which so many people’s working lives depend.” The relationship between the EU and Europe’s labour unions has come under strain in recent years. Many unions complain the bloc has taken an increasingly pro-business stance and were appalled by the austerity measures that it ordered for countries such as Greece, Spain and Portugal during the euro zone’s debt crisis. O’Grady said Brussels had to show disillusioned voters that it could help them by spurring Europe to create more and better jobs. And, in an increasingly competitive global economy, Europe represented the best bet for Britain’s workers, she said. “If I was asked the question, would workers be better off under a model of capitalism dominated by Russia or China or America, the answer is clear,” O’Grady said. “However imperfect Europe is, it’s better than the alternatives.”
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Portia Promises Happy Easter...
PM Expected To Announce Election Sunday
Portia Simpson Miller The Gleaner - Having confirmed on Tuesday that she had been “touched” by her Master, People’s National Party (PNP) president Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has hinted that Jamaicans will be going to the polls by Easter, promising one of the happiest holidays ever. This undertaking comes days ahead of Sunday’s HalfWay Tree public meeting where the general election is expected to be announced. The PNP president, who will celebrate 10 years at the helm of the party on February 25, said she was waiting for the Master’s touch to call the election for which the country was put on alert in the latter half of 2015 by the party’s national campaign director, Dr Peter Phillips - a former leadership rival, turned finance minister in her administration. Simpson Miller in an interview with The Gleaner
Wednesday was in a generous mood, promising that February will come with lots of gifts. “You may have one of the best Easters you have ever had. I am touched. You see how Shaw (Audley) provoked me in Parliament and you see what happened? You will have a lot of love in February. Pure unadulterated love,” said Simpson Miller. Among the “gifts” singled out were February 25 - the 10th anniversary of her rise to the presidency of the PNP; February 26 - the birthday of PNP chairman Robert Pickersgill; February 28 - the birthday of A.J. Nicholson, foreign affairs minister; February 29 - the 34th anniversary of the PNP’s 1972 election win and the birthday of Edna Manley, whose son, Michael, swept to power in 1972. Should Simpson Miller announce elections this Sunday, both Nomination Day
and Election Day can be over in February, inclusive of Ash Wednesday (public holiday) and which has 29 days in 2016. With the PNP known for its reliance on anniversaries which have meaning for the party, if the election is not held in February, there is speculation that it could be close to March 30. In 1993, Jamaicans went to the polls on Tuesday, March 30, which kept the PNP in power and gave P.J. Patterson his first mandate. Patterson would go on to win three consecutive electoral terms. The election was held during the Christian-observed period of Lent. With February 10 beginning that period, it is widely expected that the election will again be held during the Lenten period. The Representation of the People Act - which provides the guidelines for the calling of elections - mandates that Nomination Day shall be at least five clear days after the announcement of an election. The law also provides for Election Day to be at least 16 days or not more than 23 days after Nomination Day. The general election is due in December, but may be delayed for three months, to be held no later than March 2017. However, Simpson Miller told members of the PNP that they should expect to “do the reaping early in the New Year”. On Sunday, January 25, the PNP published its full slate of 63 candidates and held a highlevel campaign meeting in St Ann. According to Simpson Miller, the published candidates are those representing the party in the election.
Barbados sends 27 blood samples to be tested for Zika virus BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – The Ministry of Health is awaiting the results of 27 blood samples that were sent to the Trinidad based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) to be tested for the Zika virus. Following the confirmation of three cases of the virus earlier this month, the Ministry of Health says it continues to monitor the disease, and is encouraging members of the public to take the necessary precautions. “This warning is especially relevant for pregnant
women and women of childbearing age, due to reports of an increased risk of giving birth to babies whose head circumference is less than expected for age and sex,” the Ministry said. Barbadians have been urged to adhere to protective measures which include sleeping under an insecticide-treated bed net; wearing tops with long sleeves and long pants, especially during the hours of highest mosquito activity (morning and late afternoon); and using mosquito repellents with DEET applied according to manufac-
turers’ instructions. “Members of the public are also strongly advised to take steps to reduce mosquito breeding by removing potential mosquito breeding sites such as discarded containers, coconut shells, and other places where water can be collected.” The Ministry of Health’s Environmental Health Department says it is also intensifying its v e c t o r c o n t r o l programme through fogging of high risk areas for mosquito breeding, house to house inspections and other c ommunity mobilisation activities.
Friday January 29, 2016
OAS to send mission to Haiti over election crisis
Haitian Police remove burning tires placed by demonstrators during clashes in a protest in Port-au-Prince (AFP Photo/Hector Retamal) Washington (AFP) - The Organisation of American States gave a green light to sending a mission to Haiti to work on easing the political crisis over its delayed presidential runoff vote. Bocchit Edmond, Haiti’s envoy to the regional grouping, asked for the mission saying it was at the request of President Michel Martelly. The impoverished Caribbean state was due to elect a successor to Martelly in a second-round run-off vote
last Sunday, but polling was called off over safety fears. Opposition activists had taken to the streets claiming Martelly and his foreign backers are bent on rigging the poll in favour of his chosen candidate. Martelly is constitutionally prohibited from standing for re-election and his legal term in office ends on February 7, when he had hoped to hand over power. His favoured candidate, the previously little-known
Jovenel Moise, won October’s first round with around a third of the vote and remains the favourite. But opposition flagbearer Jude Celestin was close behind and refused to campaign ahead of the second vote, alleging the government was working against him. OAS chief Luis Almagro said that Haiti’s government would set out the “mission and limits of the mission.” No date for a departure was immediately disclosed.
Antigua-Barbuda PM warns of correspondent banking disaster QUITO, Ecuador — During a plenary debate on Wednesday at the fourth summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in Ecuador, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne highlighted to his colleague heads of government the clear and present danger associated with the decline in correspondent banking relations among Caribbean countries. “The system is pernicious, destructive and callous,” Browne said. “If Caribbean financial institutions lose correspondent banking relations, the following will take place: first, remittances from our Diaspora, which are important to the foreign exchange earnings and the welfare of the poor in our society, will be adversely affected. Second, businesses will not be able to pay for goods and services they import, which are necessary for human existence. And third, the tourism industry, upon which we depend, will be fatally injured when pay-
Prime Minister Gaston Browne (R) with the President of Venezuela Nicholas Maduro ments cannot be made and revenues received.” “Participation in CELAC puts us in a group that has international weight and influence,” he said, “and it is therefore an excellent vehicle for bringing our concerns and issues to the attention of global decision-makers.” Browne also commended the burgeoning integration arrangements among the CELAC member states and the support being provided by China through the US$35
billion China-CELAC Fund. The opening session of the summit was addressed by the president of Ecuador, Rafael Correa, which was followed by a retreat of the heads of state and government, during which they engaged one another in a restricted caucus. At the close of the debate, the CELAC summit issued a political declaration, the 2016 CELAC action plan and a series of special declarations. (Caribbean News)
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
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UG IS GOING BACKWARDS RATHER THAN FORWARD What is the plan for the University of Guyana? That plan is not clear. It may not have been fully crystallized as yet. The government has announced how it intends to develop the University of Guyana and improve its standards. While the government is twiddling its thumbs, the University is sliding backwards. It is in reverse gear. The most recent manifestation of this was the decision by the University of Guyana to reduce the standard of the eligibility requirements. Traditionally, you needed either five ‘O’ level of CXC passes at one sitting or six at two sittings. University students are required to take a minimum of eight courses per year, four each semester. The entry requirement of five subjects at
one sitting or six at two sittings is intended, in part, to ensure that the students who are accepted can handle the workload of eight courses per semester. It is also intended to ensure a minimum standard of performance. With complaints about standards falling at the University; with employers bemoaning the fact that many university graduates are simply not up to scratch, it was to be expected that the new coalition government would have taken steps to improve the admission requirements. Instead the opposite is taking place. The University has just announced that there is no longer a stipulation as to the minimum number of sittings required to meet the eligibility requirements. What this means is that even if you pass
your five subjects at ten sittings, you can gain admission. Why is the university going this route? It surely does not have a problem with the numbers of admissions. In fact many students from top schools in Guyana are complaining that despite having ‘A’ level qualifications, they cannot gain entry into certain programmes. These programmes are filled. Others of course need numbers, and the removal of the stipulated number of sittings can only encourage below average students to apply and gain admission. Already there are concerns about the equivalency given to some programmes which are used as alternative entry requirements for admission. In the past, it was felt that these alternative requirements were created to facili-
tate the entry of PNC supporters into the university. A great many children are graduating from high school and desirous of a university education. They want a quality education, so that when they leave their degrees can be respected. They do not want employers being circumspect about employing them. These students want to rub shoulders with other bright students, not someone who has six subjects from seven sittings. Such a student should not be admitted to any university, period. In fact the University of
Guyana should have abolished all alternative qualifications and insisted that those who wished to gain admission, go and do their ‘O’ levels and CXC privately. They could have gone further and raised standards and insisted that only persons with ‘A’ levels should gain admission to the university, as is the case with the University of the West Indies. This higher admission requirement has worked for all UWI campuses, and it has produced graduates who have gone on to be Prime Ministers in the Caribbean. But not UG! They want to
go backwards instead of forward. They have removed the stipulated minimum sittings for meeting the eligibility requirements. No wonder young people do not want to attend that university. No wonder employers are weary of accepting UG graduates unless they have a distinction in their field of study.
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Kaieteur News
Friday January 29, 2016
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Mark Benschop, APNU+AFC, the masses and the asses The local government elections will be a moment of political fascination. We have politicians from the APNUAFC Coalition Government asking Georgetowners to vote for their slate to possess the authority to administer the capital city. Georgetown in Guyana is no ordinary city. It is the capital where the nerve centres of central government, industries, commerce, information
technology, tertiary educational institutions, religious denominations, headquarters of security forces, and the major restaurants, retail stores and sports venues are located. When you govern Georgetown, you have formidable power at your disposal. The City Council has some serious authority at its command. Misuse of that power can have dangerous and
damaging consequences. We should contemplate for enduring hours how we vote. For me, attitude of a politician is important. I cannot vote for a man/woman to become my Mayor or President and he/she never ever voiced a word of protest about anything, was never there when people were victimized because of their ethnicity, when students were brutalized by the police, and when workers were exploited mercilessly by the state and the private sector. Then this man/woman disrespects my intelligence and says to me; “Vote for me.” I have Wortmanville roughness in me and I will tell you to get lost. Politicians think humans are fools. Sugar workers need to earn a living and the Wales workers must be given alternative employment, but sugar workers will look like fools if they see Jagdeo and the PPP as their salvation. These were the very politicians that weakened the sugar industry and endangered the very economic existence of sugar workers. The leader of an elite, middle class party of mostly Guyanese Portuguese embedded in the commercial classes of Guyana, once yelled out,
“the masses are asses.” That was in the campaign battles of the sixties. His name was Peter D’Aguiar and his party was The United Force. D’Aguiar was angry at the way African Guyanese followed the PNC and Indians the PPP. He felt that both parties didn’t have the interests of their supporters at heart but were only using them. The choice of words was inappropriate and indecent. But the point is that throughout history, the labouring classes have inevitably displayed poor intelligence in the way they have gravitated towards leaders and the way they have voted for them. We are seeing the vast use of intelligence by the American people, as Bernie Sanders has caught up with Mrs. Clinton in the polls. Suspicion of Mrs. Clinton’s conspiratorial character is ubiquitous among voters The City Council forcefully removed vendors who have been selling on the Merriman Mall for three decades. Sixty percent of these vendors are women and cannot be classified by any sensible economist as financially elegant. The vendors took their frustration to the Office of the President and mounted a picket. Mark Benschop was the only politician contesting the March local government elections that stood with the vendors and showed solidarity. Not one politician from the AFC, PNC and WPA even passed by and offered a word
of comfort. Not one of them penned a letter asking for a re-think. Not one of them uttered even a fraction of a word in disagreement with what the City Council did to these working class humans. Now these very parties AFC and PNC and WPA, also known as The Coalition - has drawn up a list of contestants for the March poll. The coalition is asking me as a Georgetowner to vote for their candidates. I am not saying I wouldn’t vote for The Coalition, but I would like to enter into a small debate with people from the APNU+AFC. Why should I leave Mark Benschop and vote for The Coalition? I need for someone to explain why I should overlook a candidate that stood with the poor vendors. In other words, APNU+AFC personnel, if they are going to get my vote, have to explain why they didn’t show support for the vendors as Benschop
Frederick Kissoon did. I don’t want to hear, and please keep it away from my ear, that you disagreed with what the Town Clerk did. Even if you didn’t want to take the midday sun like Benschop, where were your words when the vendors were terrorized? It is in situations like these that voters have to prove D’Aguiar wrong and show intelligence. In another column I will look at the candidates for the March poll, suffice it to say some “eye pass” seems to be going on. Vendors were removed just before the March elections, yet Georgetowners are being asked to vote in as councilors, people who committed this “eye pass.” I hope the masses aren’t asses.
Dem boys seh...
Brassington run and lef ee 19 lawsuit in de air De law never fair. De makers design it to suit de rich, famous and powerful. Rich people does always get de shortest sentence fuh a crime while poor people does got to serve de sentence fuh demself plus fuh dem same rich people who get a light sentence. De whole Mazaruni and Lot 12 serving jail sentence fuh crimes that de bald head scamp Jagdeo, and that fat crook, Brassington, commit on Guyana. Dem students who get a government scholarship and sign a contract fuh couple thousand dollars does get stop when dem try to lef de country. Since dem go to de airport somebody does tek dem passport and go in a room to see if dem deh pun some list. But Ash Deonarine tek$27.4 million without asking anybody, then walk through de airport and jump on a plane. Nobody didn’t stop him. Now dem want him fuh de money but de man deh far. This was de same man who did promise to give dem back dem money but that was when he was in Guyana. Brassington is another one who jump pun a plane and lef. He too was being questioned about millions of dollars wha he spend all over de place and can’t account for. When he was in de country nobody didn’t even think about searching he house. As soon as he lef, dem start fuh watchman he house and then dem raid it. Brassington now deh in Florida singing praises to Jagdeo. This was a man who start out as book-keeper wid Jocelyn. Jagdeo did want a book-keeper who wasn’t too bright to control money, so he put de fat crook to control NICIL. Brassington shift money like how dem does shift punt in a cane factory. De whole country hoping that he come back to face de charges that Soulja Bai gun put on him in a few days time. But dem boys know that he ain’t coming back This is de same Brassington who sue de Waterfalls paper fuh $100 million like if wha he did tek wasn’t enough. Dem boys seh dem gun settle; dem gun pay him de hundred million without contesting but he got to come home to contest. Dem would provide transportation and outrider from de airport. Talk half and hope Soulja Bai and Rum Jattan change de law to suit all.
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
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‘Gary Talkout’ wanted for Berbice fugitive shot after abduction of footballer, friend attacking cop with knife - Melanie man detained The search for Alpha United goalkeeper Ronson Williams and carpenter Carlos Anderson took an ominous turn yesterday, with police issuing a wanted bulletin for a 41-year-old man, in connection with the September 2015 abduction of the two friends. They have also detained a brother-in-law of the missing football player. He has reportedly been in custody since last week. Police yesterday appealed for information about the whereabouts of suspect Gary Mervin Primo, called ‘Gary Talkout’, in relation to “investigations into the abduction” of Williams and Anderson. Persons with information about his whereabouts can contact the police on telephone numbers 2272128, 227-1149, 225-6411 226-7065, 911 or the nearest police station. Williams, 28, and Anderson, 20, are said to have disappeared on September 10, 2015, after entering a silvergrey car in Bent Street, Georgetown. They had informed relatives that they were heading to a football match. One suggestion is that their disappearance may be connected to a sum of money that one of the men had borrowed. Kaieteur News was told that detectives took Williams’ brother-in-law into custody last week. He is said to be still in custody. Williams’ mother, Desiree Carter, said that her son came to her Bent Street home that evening and collected two pairs of pants and a jersey, and indicated that he was going to a girlfriend in Sophia before heading to the football match. She said that when she looked out the window, it was to see that Williams was driving his friend’s car and Anderson was in the passenger seat. She has not seen him since. Carter said that she reported the matter to the police since September 15, while Carmelita Pestano Anderson, the mother of Carlos Anderson, reported the matter on September 13 at the Alberttown Police Station Mrs. Anderson recalled calling her son, on his cell phone that night. “Around nine o’clock he say he at Tasha (the detained man’s sister). After that the phone went to voicemail.” She continued to receive a voicemail message up to December, when there were indications that the device was either disconnected or turned off. Both mothers said that they had never heard any-
WANTED: Gary Mervin Primo called ‘Gary Talkout’ thing unsavory about their sons. However, they both related hearing rumours about their sons over the past few months, ranging from claims that they had gone to Suriname, to claims that they had been murdered and their bodies burnt. “A mother can’t know everything her son does,” Carmelita Anderson said. “But all I want to know is the truth. If he done something wrong, we all are human; we make mistakes. We want to know, because it has been close to four months. Even the car vanish.” The family is offering a reward for any credible information pertaining to the disappearance of these two youths. Contact numbers are 592-678-1907 or 592-697-7738.
Ronson Williams
Carlos Anderson
Police yesterday shot and wounded a notorious wanted man who had tried to stab one of their colleagues. Delroy Joseph, called ‘Barney’ had attacked a rank with a knife after being cornered in a building at Nicolay Street, New Amsterdam. Joseph, 26, of Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, and Norton Street, Georgetown, was wanted for a series of crimes committed in various parts of Guyana. He was out on bail on a recent charge, however, he had not been attending court and a warrant was issued for his arrest. During that time, he was fingered in a number of other criminal offences. The police subsequently
received information that Joseph had been frequenting a certain location in New Amsterdam. Acting on information, the police would visit the premises, but would come up empty handed. The cops even spotted him on one occasion, but Joseph managed to flee. His luck ran out yesterday, when police got word that he was at the location. After scouring the premises, they found Joseph hiding in a room. The cornered man slashed one of the policemen’s shirt with a knife. Another policeman responded by shooting Joseph in the legs. He was admitted under guard at the New Amsterdam Hospital.
Delroy Joseph called ‘Barney’
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Kaieteur News
Friday January 29, 2016
Harbour Bridge seeks higher vehicular toll Yesterday, it was reported that General Manager of the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC), Rawlston Adams, submitted a proposal to the Infrastructure Ministry seeking an increase in rates for vehicular traffic. Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, has now indicated that the document is currently with Cabinet awaiting approval. Once the approval is given, she said, there will be a decline in requests coming for the sums for capital expenditure from the DHBC. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, said that the increase would have nothing to do with the budget, since it is a proposal. The comment came during the announcement of the new Board of Directors. Ferguson urged Board members to be innovators during their term. The Board of Directors comprises Chairman, Shabir Hussein; Vice Chairman, Joseph Holder; Rafeza Hussein; Claudette Rogers; Mandy Sukhdeo; and Ex-Officio Member, Rawlston Adams. A representative from the GPSU is yet to be nominated. During her charge, Ferguson urged
From Left: Claudette Rogers; Chairman of the Board, Shabir Hussein; Mandy Sukhdeo; Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson; Minister within the Ministry, Annette Ferguson; Joseph Holder; Rafeza Hussein and Ex-Officio Member, Rawlston Adams. the members to be forward thinking and advised them to come up with new ideas to better the operations of the Demerara Harbour Bridge. She also extended this advice to the Asphalt Plant, which falls under DHBC. She shared that, at the end of 2015, both DHBC and the Asphalt Plant performed well and she expressed hope that this performance will only grow under the new board. She noted the need for improved traffic control and
added that this was an area that must be looked into by the board. The goal must be to provide better service to the travelling public, she said. Minister Ferguson said that the Ministry will be working closely with the Board in the future on a number of projects, including the new Demerara Harbour Bridge for which a schedule of maintenance work is now in place. Minister Patterson thanked the members for accepting their appointments
and reminded them of their social obligations to the Guyanese public. In response, the Chairman, Shabir Hussein, thanked the Ministers for the confidence placed in him as the
chairman and promised the Board’s full cooperation. Overall, all of the Board members were urged to keep their employees satisfied and in mind. “Our workers and employees are our most valued
assets; we hope that whatever plans you undertake that the employees are with you,” Minister Patterson said. “Whatever you do, don’t forget them,” Minister Ferguson added.
Pastor fined $100,000 on causing death charge Religious leader, Winston Cramer, who caused the death of a pedal cyclist by dangerous driving, was yesterday ordered to pay a fine of $100,000 by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Failure to pay the fine will see him serving an 18-month prison term. He was also ordered to compensate the mother of the victim’s minor child to the tune of $500,000. At the time of the accident, the child was a pillion rider on her father’s bicycle. She sustained injuries about her body. Cramer, 51, of Lot 162 Go Slow Avenue, Tucville, Georgetown caused the death of Lennox Allicock by dangerous driving. On April 10, last, Cramer drove motorcar PKK 7896 in a dangerous manner and struck down Allicock, who was a pedal cyclist at the time. Police Prosecutor, Sergeant Neville Jeffers contended that on the day in question, around 16:00 hours, Cramer was proceeding east along the northern carriageway of Quamina Street, and failed to
- ordered to pay $500,000 compensation to victim’s family
Winston Cramer stop at the intersection on Camp Street. Motorcar PKK 3178 drove into Cramer’s path and resulted in a collision. Allicock, who was on the northern side of Quamina Street, was struck down. Two other persons who were with him received injuries. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he succumbed to his injuries a few days later. Magistrate McLennan had found him guilty of the offence on January 13, but deferred sentencing pending a probation report. Yesterday, the probation
report was read aloud in court. Before informing the court of her sentencing, the Magistrate considered all mitigating factors that were raised by Attorneys Nigel Hughes and Adrian Thompson. The Magistrate took into consideration the fact that it is a serious matter and a life was lost. She informed the court that she also considered the findings of the probation report and a statement made by Pauline Simon, the mother of the victim’s youngest child. The court was told that Simon was willing to accept (Continued on page 29)
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Guyana’s health surveillance system gets kudos Although Guyana’s laboratory testing capabilities may be limited, its surveillance ability is certainly not in question. In fact it was the Ministry of Public Health’s efficient surveillance system that allowed it to detect early certain symptoms manifested in patients that were consistent with emerging viruses. Moreover, the Ministry with the support of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in Trinidad was able to detect one case of the H1N1 virus and one of the Zika virus. “I would like to praise the public health system; if the system was not intact this case of Zika could have passed as anything, maybe dengue. If the suspicion index was not high it wouldn’t have been picked up,” said Resident Representative of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), Dr. William Adu-Krow. Zika is transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes which have also been credited with transmitting the Chikungunya virus and dengue fever here. Symptoms consistent with the Zika virus include fever, rash, joint pain, and or conjunctivitis. Other known symptoms are muscle pain, headache, pain behind the eyes and vomiting. Once contracted there is no cure for the virus, but rather, complete reliance on treatment such as acetaminophen or paracetamol is warranted to relieve associated fever and pain. But the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned that persons who are suspected to have the virus should refrain from taking non-steroidal antiinflammatory (NSAIDs)
PAHO Resident Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen. “Aspirin and NSAIDs should be avoided until dengue can be ruled out to reduce the risk of haemorrhaging. If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provide before taking additional medication,” CDC has cautioned. People who have been diagnosed with Zika should, as far as possible, avoid being bitten by mosquitoes for the first week of their illness. The CDC has disclosed, too, that during the first week of infection, the virus can be found in the blood and passed from an infected person to others through mosquitoes’ bites. But according to the CDC, only one in five people infected with Zika is likely to become sick and deaths are especially rare. Those who do become sick are encouraged to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids to prevent dehydration in addition to taking prescribed medication. According to Dr. AduKrow, one of the important aspects of dealing with this virus is to prevent the population from panicking. In so doing, he stressed,
preventative measures must be adopted such as ensuring that breeding sites for the transmitting vector are removed. The proper covering of black tanks and clean water sources is important as is the disallowance of exposed stagnant water for more than three days. In addition to this, the PAHO Representative warned that “if you don’t have to travel to an area that is endemic don’t engage in that travel. If you are in an area that has the vector that transmits dengue as well as Zika, just adopt the protection measures...” He added “the main issue now is educating the public in terms of preventing Zika because you cannot treat it except treat the symptoms so that’s basically what we are trying to do.” According to the PAHO Representative, the priority areas of focus have been helping with health promotion and disease prevention. It has been this same tactic that PAHO has embraced to support the Public Health Ministry’s fight against the H1N1 virus, according to Dr. Adu-Krow. But according to him, it hasn’t been PAHO alone supporting the Ministry since other developmental agencies including the United Nation’s Children Fund (UNICEF) have been making contributions. “I know UNICEF donated some money to build a response office, like a war room, where data can be gathered during a crisis, and I think that is a place that is still in progress,” said Dr. Adu-Krow. Coupled with a vigilant surveillance system, he noted that Guyana should be in a position to easily detect symptoms of emerging
viruses. “This system is one that can capture what is happening within the country, so for instance if we didn’t have any system and somebody came in with a flulike symptom and we said ‘oh it’s just flu’ and we didn’t bother with it, the H1N1 virus could have flourished without being picked up,” Dr. Adu-Krow emphasised. But because of a proper functioning surveillance system that deals with what happens at ports of entry, gathering data and comparing it with levels that were seen before, the
Ministry was able to detect and possibly help to arrest the spread of the viruses. “A lot has been done by the Ministry, a lot has been done by PAHO but not only PAHO, by other partners as well,” said Dr. Adu-Krow as he disclosed that PAHO has been instrumental in bringing together stakeholders to help the efforts of the Public Health Ministry too. “I remember we also brought lots of teams together...when you are dealing with things like the foot and mouth disease you definitely can’t only work with the Ministry of Public
Health. We had to bring in the Ministry of Agriculture (and) other sectors...to look at their various surveillance systems,” said the PAHO Rep. But according to him, “Only God knows, the virus is always evolving and we could come up with a new strain. It may so happen that we may find a strain that has never been found anywhere else.” He however stressed that the work done in the past and the ongoing efforts could in fact be Guyana’s salvation to dealing with emerging viruses.
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Kaieteur News
Friday January 29, 2016
Guyana looking for alternative to Trinidad amid oil supply fears By Leonard Gildarie Amidst concerns over the shakiness of its fuel supply, Guyana has started moves that will allow it to import oil from outside the region. Yesterday, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, disclosed that there are concerns within CARICOM regions about the ability of PetroTrin, Trinidad’s oil company that supplies Guyana, to keep up its commitments. Guyana has approached the business arm of CARICOM - the Ministerial Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), asking for waiver on the Common External Tariff, a tax that the region charges on goods that are imported. The waiver will allow Guyana to source fuel from any country outside the region. The disclosures were made yesterday when Patterson met with the new Board of Directors for the Guyana Energy Authority, the body that regulates the
importation and sale of oil in Guyana. GEA’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mahender Sharma, explained that issue of sourcing fuel outside CARICOM had to do with energy security - ensuring supplies locally are stable so as to prevent shortages. Guyana had turned to Trinidad last year after the PetroCaribe deal with Venezuela fell through, leaving Guyana without a steady, ready supply. According to Sharma, while the price from the Trinidad supplier was on the higher end, there is the very real fear of putting all Guyana’s eggs in one basket. Guyana’s fuel supply is now just for two weeks, not an ideal situation. Should the Trinidad company go down for any reason, it would leave Guyana in trouble. Guyana would be also looking for an alternative deal as world oil prices are at a decade low, trading at just US$30 per barrel, a third of what it was over a year ago. Guyana might very well get a
The new GEA Board with Ministers David Patterson and Annette Ferguson.
better deal. Yesterday, Minister Patterson urged the new board to look into other issues like the current issue over fuel markers and moving Guyana towards renewable energy like hydro, wind, solar, hybrids thermal and even waste energy.
Meanwhile, it was announced that Dr. Vincent Adams, a seasoned highranking official of the US Department of Energy, has accepted invitations to sit on the GEA’s board. Dr. Adams is from Linden. He will be
flying back to Guyana at his own expense for board meetings, Patterson said. His presence on the GEA board could open doors to Guyana’s thrust to build alternative power projects, the minister stressed.
The new GEA board comprises private sector executive, Lance Hinds Chairman; with the members being Nadia Sagar; Mark Bender; Dr. Mahender Sharma and Dr. Vincent Adams.
Drug mule excreting cocaine under guard at GPHC Up to late yesterday afternoon, ranks from the Police Narcotics Unit were still waiting to see if a Guyanese national would excrete any more cocaine pellets that he had ingested. The man was placed under guard at the Georgetown Public Hospital after he was detained at the Ogle International Airport with a quantity of the drug, yesterday morning. Police did not give the
name of the mule but stated in a press release that about 05:30 hours yesterday, ranks at the Police Narcotics Branch arrested a Guyanese national, who was an outgoing passenger at the Ogle Airport, after 518 grams of cocaine were found concealed in his underclothes. Realising that he would be detained and would not reach his destination on time, the man “spilled his guts”. He
told narcotics ranks that he had ingested cocaine. He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where medical personnel administered medication to help him excrete the drug. Police in a further statement yesterday afternoon said that a number of pellets with a total weight of 62 grams of cocaine have been retrieved. The man is still under guard at the GPHC.
New GPL Board to consider acting... From page 3 to iron out a power purchase agreement and work out the technical details that will see the 26-megawatts being accommodated in the interconnected system of that stateowned company, and in accordance with the regulatory framework. When it comes on stream, the wind-farm will be about 15 percent of the country's current power and will be from renewable energy. The wind-farm project is being spearheaded by local businessman, Lloyd Singh. The board will also have to address a major problem facing GPL- that of bringing down its technical and commercial losses from the current 28 percent. GPL has several transformers and other equip-
ment that have been leaking power produced. A significant amount of theft from consumers also has added up to that 28 percent. According to Patterson, he has already written the new Chairman, advising on a number of issues, including administrative ones, that the board will have to address. He admitted that the allegations against Welch will be one of them. A s a m a t t e r of fact, Patterson disclosed that it will be the task of the board to find a CEO and fill several vacancies that exist for senior officials in the company. Also present yesterday was Minister within the Ministry, Annette Ferguson, who urged the new board members to seek new ideas and find
solutions for the customers who will be demanding better service. Questioned, Minister Patterson said that invitations had been sent out to the Opposition to submit a name to be on the board. However, there has not been any response on this and several other boards that Government has been appointing in recent months. The members of the board are Robert Badal - Chairman; Denise Simmonds; Leslie Ramalho; Abiola WongInniss; Morsha JohnsonFrancis; Tara Singh; Chief Executive Office of Guyana Energy Inc. and representatives from the Guyana Public Service Union, the Private Sector and possibly the Parliamentary Opposition.
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
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No evidence Ramroop paid dividends for ...“Ask Goolsarran that” Govt. shares in New GPC - Ramroop tells reporter Local financial minds are trying to understand why the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) never pressed to collect dividends on the 10 percent shares Government has in New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (GPC). Ninety per cent of the shares in the company is owned by Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop, who happens to be the best friend of former President Bharrat Jagdeo. The remaining 10 per cent is owned by Government. The matter is one which was documented in the NICIL forensic audit report conducted by Chartered Accountant, Anand Goolsarran. Goolsarran looked into the trade investments and found that Government as of last year owned 10 percent shares in the company. The report said, “In relation to the New GPC Inc., by Cabinet approval of October 1999 and September 2001, the Government had sold 60 percent and 30 percent respectively of its shareholding in the predecessor company, the Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation, to Queens Atlantic Investments Inc. for $658 million. “However, there was no evidence that the New GPC paid any dividends to the Government for its 10 percent stake in the company.” Analysts who are looking
NICIL’s Former CEO, Winston Brassington
NICIL’s Deputy, Marcia Nadir-Sharma
NEW GPC CEO, Bobby Ramroop
Forensic Auditor, Anand Goolsarran
closely into the matter say that it is one that points to financial lawlessness and a total disregard for best practices in accounting. “The big question is why? Why would anyone with God-given commonsense have a share in a company and simply be so lax with ensuring that they receive dividends? What is before us points to many corrupt things and Ramroop and the company’s former Chief Executive Officer, Winston Brassington, would
have to explain this,” expressed the financial analyst. Questioned yesterday to say whether the company ever paid dividends to the Government for its 10 percent share, Ramroop asked, “What is the problem? You can’t ask me that. Is Goolsarran wrote the report. You have to go and ask Goolsarran that. Look, I don’t speak to Kaieteur News so forget it.” Additionally, Kaieteur News also understands that
when it comes to this particular matter, Brassington never responded to it when the draft report was sent to him by forensic auditor, Anand Goolsarran. Goolsarran’s 80-page forensic audit report also details numerous cases of financial improprieties by the
former directors of NICIL and Brassington. In the report, Goolsarran recommended that moves be made to institute criminal and/ or disciplinary actions against all those responsible for the interception of State revenues totaling $26.858 billion in violation of Articles
216 of the Constitution and the related sections of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMA). He believes that there should be a further independent audit to examine in detail transactions over the last six years, given that the scope of his report covered the period 2001 to May 2015. After deliberating on the forensic audit report Cabinet on December 23 finally instructed that the report be forwarded to the Guyana Police Force and the State Asset Recovery Unit (SARU). It also gave clear instructions for Brassington, and his Deputy, Marcia Nadir-Sharma, to be sent immediately on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigations. Brassington has since resigned.
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Kaieteur News
Friday January 29, 2016
Stephen Fraser heads CJIA Board - Opposition yet to submit nominee At a simple ceremony hosted in Kingston yesterday, the newly appointed board of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) was officially signed. The members include the Chairman, Stephen Fraser; Gerhard Ramsaroop; Nadia Jaikarran; Stuart Hughes; Gillian Pollard; Sherwood Clarke; Ex-Officio Member, Balraj Balram and the Vice Chairman, Ramesh Ghir. The name of the ninth member, a representative of the opposition, is yet to be submitted. “…The leader of the opposition has been requested to submit his nominee; he has not done so as yet, (but) whenever he does, I will gladly appoint that person and accommodate him on the board,” Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson stated. He continued, “There is a
From Left: Ramesh Ghir; Sherwood Clarke; Gerhard Ramsroop; Minster of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson; Chairman of the Board, Stephen Fraser; Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson; Gillian Pollard; Nadia Jaikarran; Sherwood Clarke and Balraj Balram. space for the parliamentary opposition, (this is) in keeping with the policy and mandate of the Government.” For the new members of the CJIA board, being visionaries was the challenge
put forward to them by Patterson and Minister within the Ministry, Annette Ferguson. Patterson urged the board to not only recognise the meaningful positions they
were in but to also be creative in their approaches. He also asked the board to focus on cost efficiency. Noting that the airport saw a six percent increase in travellers during 2015, Patterson projected that this figure will only grow in 2016. He added that the board’s first challenge will be the handling of those coming to Guyana to celebrate the nation’s 50th Independence anniversary. “You will be charged with ensuring that our brothers and sisters feel very welcomed,” Patterson said. He further expressed hope that the airport capacities will be greatly improved under its new board. He urged the
members to open Guyana’s airways to more flights. He said that currently Guyana has low connectivity with its South American neighbours, a situation he hoped would be addressed. Minister Ferguson thanked the members for accepting their appointments and urged them to work closely with the Ministry. CJIA Chairman, Stephen Fraser, thanked the Ministers for their expressed trust in the board. He said that he was so far comfortable with the board and CJIA’s management and indicated that the board will work towards developing synergy for the airport. He expressed his gratitude for
ongoing works at the airport, particularly the airport expansion project. In relation to the completion of the Runway Expansion Project, Patterson said that it is estimated to be completed by the end of 2017. He stated that the board’s role is significant in seeing the project and “economic drive” coming to fruition by providing “expert guidance on key issues” pertaining to its execution. “I see this board as an investment partner and a think-tank for CJIA operations. I’m optimistic that it will achieve its mandate through accountability and integrity”.
Despite Commander’s assurance, Police still to repair damaged Eccles bridge Almost two months ago, a police prison vehicle was responsible for the damage to the rail of the bridge linking Eccles and Nandy Park. Photographs were published by this newspaper, showing the police vehicle and the damaged bridge rail. Two weeks later the bridge remained in the same condition, with the wooden rail hanging at the side, prompting residents to demand its repair. Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Clifton Hicken was contacted by this newspaper and he
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood
immediately ordered the Officer-in-Charge of the SubDivision to have it rectified. This newspaper was also assured by the officer that the facility would be repaired as soon as possible. To date not only has the bridge not been repaired, but the hanging wooden rail has mysteriously disappeared. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure continues to experience headaches to recover monies spent on repairing or replacing public property that was damaged by reckless motorists. For last year alone, the Ministry expended in excess of $30M to repair or replace public infrastructure that was damaged by vehicular accident or deliberately vandalised. This is compared to a mere $65,000 recovered from those who did the damage. According to an official at the Ministry of Public
Infrastructure, there were 51 accidents which resulted in damage to street light structures including the poles. The official said that the government covered the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged structures to the tune of $12.575M. With respect to traffic light signals, it cost the government $17.494M to repair damage caused by 24 accidents. The official said that while the policy is for persons who damage public property to bear the cost of repair or replacement, it is sometimes difficult to identify the perpetrators, especially since most of the damage occurs at nights or in the wee hours of the morning. In the case of the police vehicle damaging public property, the ministry cannot claim that it cannot identify the perpetrator.
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Kaieteur News
Friday January 29, 2016
Gunmen fail in robbery bid against Edun Egg Farm Two armed motorcycle bandits yesterday morning attempted a robbery on Edun’s Egg Farm delivery van around 09:50 hrs. An employee who asked to remain anonymous was with his boss Mr. Sidiq Edun and wife, in the vehicle, that had come to a stop at the traffic lights at Sheriff and Duncan Streets. Two men on motorcycle
pulled up; one approached his side of the van and told him not to move The eyewitness recounted that the assailant then attempted to grab a bag he had in his possession. He said that he had nothing. By this time the second one who was armed, ventured around to the driver’s side of the vehicle, pulled open the
door and demanded cash. However Mr. Edun thinking fast quickly accelerated and drove away, but not before the bandits shot at the vehicle. The bullet missed Edun and struck the front windshield of the Canter. At the time of the attack, Mr. Edun was reportedly making a delivery a short distance away.
A shaken Mr. Edun stands holding a grill door
The canter with a bullet hole in the centre of the windshield
West Bank villagers march to... From page 21 sugar workers, is undoubtedly concerned about the well-being of the people in the communities whose lives are so closely intertwined with the estate,” GAWU said in its statement. The union, the largest in the sugar industry, noted that the involvement of residents of the villages in protest action is a clear demonstration of the unpopularity of the decision to close Wales estate and the justified concerns that the people have at this time. “The GAWU Branch Committee is contemplating other activities in ongoing efforts to rescind and illthought out decision which will affect hundreds of workers and thousands more indirectly.” GAWU reiterated that the
decision to close the estate is most unfortunate. “The union holds the view that a workable plan is possible to have the estate overcome its present difficulties--steps towards which we are aware have been taken in recent times. “We join with the residents and the workers to call on the Government to halt pursuit of the decision to close the Estate. The government should not ignore the real consequences that that will affect the future of the workers, their families and the communities.” Government said that the decision to close Wales this year and transferring the grinding operations to Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, has to do mainly with the fact that the factory is becoming impossible to maintain.
The equipment there is over 100 years old with parts difficult to find. This year, Wales is projected to make up to $1.9B in losses. GuySuCo, a state-owned entity, has been facing tough times with production sliding consistently over two decades before recovering last year. However, projected low world prices for sugar is likely to continue for some time with a key inquiry not forecasting good news. It is producing sugar at more than double what it is selling for. GuySuCo must cut costs to stay afloat. Like last year, Government is set to plug up to $12B into the industry to cover expenses, among other things. GuySuCo has seven estates and about 16,000 workers on its payroll.
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 27
Poor parenting and relationship conflict fuel suicide in teens and young adults By Jeanna Pearson A mere two weeks into 2016, Guyana was left staggering with a series of reported cases of suicide; almost on a daily basis new reports surfaced of someone taking their own life. The upshot: the country was left watching with bated breaths as the President, David Granger, called an emergency meeting to tackle the epidemic. Will the strategies work? Only time will tell. But what has been noticed is that issues of poor parenting and relationship conflicts are scarcely being addressed while the means of the suicide is being dealt with. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) Report “Preventing suicide: a global imperative,” in some countries, like Guyana, suicide is at its highest among the youths with most of the cases and attempts arising from vulnerable groups struggling with relationship issues, discrimination, trauma and abuse, isolation and lack of social support from families and friends. This was the case of a double-suicide that rocked the county of Berbice, a few weeks ago. The adolescent girl and her boyfriend appeared to have suffered at the hands of poor parenting and relationship conflict, Child Counsellor Abbigale Loncke told Kaieteur News in a recent interview. She stated that culture, religious beliefs, the legal system and a person’s immediate relationship with his/her family can have an impact on suicidal behaviour. She stated that poor parenting and relationship clashes can cause grief and psychological stress that inevitably increase the risk of suicide. She cited that an unhealthy relationship is also another risk factor. According to the WHO, suicidal behaviour often occurs as a response to personal psychological stress in a social context where sources of support are lacking. It added that isolation occurs when a person feels disconnected from his or her closest social circle: partners, family members and friends. While persons who share close personal and enduring relationships typically have a sense of purpose, security and connectedness. Loncke stated that parents and guardians need to start listening to their children and show them, not tell them, that they care for them. “If we approach them
- Child Counsellor
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shamdeo Persaud with a judgemental attitude we will definitely lose them to isolation or worse suicide,” she said. She said many parents and guardians are illequipped to cope with such situations and as such there is need for open dialogue with parents across the country. She stated that there should be a shift from the adolescents to the parents. “We need parents to work out their own emotions before we allow them to counsel teens,” she added, noting that many teens who commit suicide lacked a relationship with their parent(s). “We need to stop discriminating and blaming it all on ‘oh she young and hot’ and ‘we can’t stop them from killing themselves if they want to’ and examine the core issues that are fuelling this epidemic...we need to look at what is going on inside the house. What is being said...what is being encouraged...that’s where we need to start—in the home with the parents and then move to the relationship conflict,” she said fervently. SHUNNING She stated that Guyanese do not live in a culture where daughters and sons can
openly communicate sensitive issues such as sex and affection with their parents, because such a culture never existed in the first place. And so, she said teens and young adults who are not embraced at home by their families and parents tend to develop a great amount of anger and depression which leads to suicide. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shamdeo Persaud has indicated that many cases of suicide in adolescent and young adults in Guyana are linked to a “shunning” by their families. He stated that many times parents would not approve of a relationship and ban the couple from seeing each other. “But banning them won’t help the situation. It only makes it worst. We need to first understand what is going on. We need to listen. Parenting is not about shouting and beating your children, it is about protecting them and resolving conflict situations with them,” he said. Persaud explained that teenagers are at a stage where their bodies and minds are evolving into adulthood and so it is a very “ticklest” period where they do not even understand their own emotions. He said parents need to be sensitive to this change and help them through the phase instead of yelling at them. He added that the issue of suicide is exploding and thus needs to be treated as an emergency. “Suicide is not a health issue alone; it is a social issue and a cultural issue,” he said. DON’T TAKE THREATS OF SUICIDE LIGHTLY
“No matter how frivolous it may sound, don’t take the threats of suicide lightly, because we don’t know when someone has reached a breaking point. The mere fact that they are voicing it shows that it has crossed their minds or they are actually contemplating it,” Loncke said, adding that the majority of times these persons do not really want to take their lives. “It is usually a cry for help...for someone to listen to them. So we need to take every single threat seriously,” she added. Even though she commends the government for placing counsellors in schools and developing a suicide hotline, she said Guyana still needs to think outside of the box. “What if that person doesn’t have credit in their phone? Why don’t we try to make the hotline toll-free? Why don’t we go into the communities that are vulnerable and get these people to talk? We should have drop-in centres so that persons can receive counselling for free,” she questioned. The WHO report recommended that the
Child Counsellor Abbigale Loncke cultivation and maintenance of healthy close relationships can increase individual resilience and act as a protective factor against the risk of suicide. It stated that a person’s family have the most influence and can be supportive in times of crisis, citing “relationships are especially protective for adolescents and the elderly who have a higher level of dependency”. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds. Seventyfive per cent of global suicides occur in low and middle-income countries, with suicide rates high amongst vulnerable groups, e x p e r i e n c i n g discrimination— such as
refugees and migrants; indigenous peoples; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and prisoners. Guyana was estimated as having the highest suicide rate in the world in 2012 with an overall rate of 44.2 cases per 100,000 individuals. Guyana’s ranking comes even though there was an 8.5% decline in the country’s suicide rate between 2000 and 2012, suggesting that local efforts to combat suicide have simply not kept up with that of other countries. For January there have been over 15 cases of suicide and attempted suicide. Most of the time, many incidence of suicide go unreported. Recently, a 24-hour suicide hotline was set up and counselors are available to talk with persons battling with thoughts of suicide and depression. Also, a National Suicide Prevention Plan is being implemented. “All the efforts are commendable, but we need to get to the parents and iron out the issues in the relationship before we can reach the person suffering,” Loncke reiterated, adding that every case of suicide is one too many life lost.
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Kaieteur News
Friday January 29, 2016
Guyanese association launched in St. Vincent and the Grenadines A Guyanese association has been launched in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) to look after their interests there. According to the Guyanese Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Inc.”, people from this country forms the biggest immigrants from the Caribbean area. The members elected its office bearers on Saturday, January 16, at the Wesleyan Holiness Church, downtown Kingstown. The 10-member committee comprises Nigel Russell – President; Rawle Caesar– First Vice President; Keith John – Second Vice President; Jennifer Peterkin – Secretary; Pastor Kerry Kerr – Treasurer; John Dickie Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer; Collette JonesChin - Public Relations Officer with the Committee members being Dianne Charles, Patricia Jones and Denise Craigg. In his first address as president of the association, Russell noted that it would come as a surprise that Guyanese are largest number
President: Nigel Russell of immigrants to that territory. “Guyanese who reside in SVG have contributed largely to its development, especially in the nursing and education sectors and will continue to do so.” Russell, who has lived with his wife, raising two sons in SVG for more than 25 years, said he has always wondered why there was no association of Guyanese in SVG. He always wanted to be a part of the development of
A number of Guyanese at the recent elections for the new association in SVG, earlier this month. one. However, years elapsed and his interest was awakened when Patricia Jones and Mrs. Dianne Charles pulled a few Guyanese together to celebrate the victory and Inauguration of President David Granger who was
elected last year May in Guyana. Soon after, a group was formed, an interim committee established. The intentions of the association are to promote the integration of Guyanese into the Vincentian society; preserve the Guyanese culture there and to provide assistance to Guyanese immigrants. The association is also looking to organize celebrations around Guyana’s national events and
also become an effective voice in SVG. Stating that the organization is non-political, non-religious and non-profit, Russell stressed that there is an open door policy. “Nobody is above anybody. For me, there is no division, nor separation between anybody. Whether you’re a baker, whether you’re a security guard, whether you’re a doctor, lawyer; whatever you do, we have a broad-based set of
skills to assist in the continued development of this country and ourselves, and all we have to do is work together. Every single thing that we do will involve everyone.” About 40 persons attended and participated in the elections. Expressing satisfaction at the “good turnout”, Russell noted that some Guyanese have been living in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for more than 30 years.
Girl, 14, disappears without a trace A Supply, East Bank Demerara (EBD) teenager has reportedly disappeared without a trace, leaving her mother fearful that something terrible has befallen her. Entiyah Singh went missing around 06:30 hrs on Sunday when she left her Lot 12 Supply home to uplift something from a relative who resides nearby. She has not been seen or heard from since. The 14-year-old left home wearing blue jeans and blue jersey, and a pair of slippers. Her mother, Indira Boodram, is convinced that someone in the village might be responsible for her daughter’s disappearance. In fact, the teen was in contact with an individual in
Missing: Entiyah Singh September last, and he (the individual) tried to lure her to neighbouring Venezuela. The schoolgirl reportedly
told her mother that the individual had told her that he owned a lot of properties and cars in that country. He even questioned her about her having a passport. That individual was arrested for human trafficking but he was never charged. “I don’t know what happened but I want her home,” the desperate mother cried. Since her daughter’s disappeared, the woman said that she has not slept. She has been searching for her day and night. “Tia, wherever you are please come home back,” the woman begged, tearfully. Anyone with information on the teen’s disappearance can call 697-1814, 663-4429 or the nearest police station.
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
Trade unions pledge to work toward single May Day rally “The tenets of successful negotiation do not encompass arrogance and a test of strength but rather mutual respect, compromise and a willingness to cooperate and coexist.” This was the appeal made by recently appointed Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott, when he met with several trade unions. The meeting was the fulfillment of a promise the Minister made to engage all trade unions. He was able to meet all but two unions during the past few weeks. The engagement saw the Minister being able to interact with the two umbrella bodies – the Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC) and the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) – and their affiliates as well as those unions who see themselves as nonaligned. Minister Scott, who is no stranger to the trade union fraternity and trade unionism, expressed his appreciation for the dynamism of the discipline as well as the challenges to the field. The Minister emphasized the need for unions to embrace such value
Minister Keith Scott as honesty, integrity and accountability which are some of the virtues which characterize the mark and legacy of the late great Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow. In essence, he advocated good governance of all trade unions. The Minister reminded the unions of the need to foster and maintain an investorfriendly climate in which there is little or no room for strikes and arbitration as a means of selling industrial differences. The engagement between the Minister and the trade
Pastor fined.. From page 12 compensation to stand medical expenses for her child. During his submission Hughes told the court that his client is deeply remorseful and keenly aware that his actions caused the life of someone. He said that Cramer has spent his entire life and dedicated his energy to the development of society. “This is not a person who sought to benefit economically at the expense of the state”, Hughes affirmed. The lawyer explained that sending his client to prison would do
more harm than good. While, he said that the defence accepts the court’s verdict he pleaded with the Magistrate to consider how the accident came about. The attorney informed the court that his client is the sole breadwinner of his family, which comprises of his wife and two teenage children. He said that Cramer’s wife depends on him to carry out daily house chore because she is currently immobile. Thereafter, Simon was advised by the Magistrate to seek legal advice as it relates to suing Cramer in the High Court.
Guyana says yes... From page 18 for the introduction of the Satellite Accounting System; grateful that we no longer have to depend on just indicators,” Butts said. Minister of Public Telecommunications and Tourism, Cathy Hughes, spoke about the TSA Committee which was formed last November to begin the process of implementation. This committee includes the Deputy Chief Immigration Officer, the Head of Surveys and staff of the Bu-
reau of Statistics, the Senior Economist of the Bank of Guyana, the Finance Ministry's Director of Budgets and a representative of THAG. “We are all well aware of the real value of Tourism to the development of this nation. We know that it is a fastgrowing Global service industry that is raking in billions of dollars from the billions of tourists who travel the world with a willingness to spend,” she reiterated, and added that good things come to those who wait.
unions was not intended to be a forum to address the routine concerns of the unions because an opportunity for that purpose would be afforded each union in the near future. A main thrust of the Minister’s submission to the unions was his mission for a unified May Day Celebration this year. He underscored that much too long the movement has been fractured and the time for unification is long overdue. The Minister noted that while that may be an ideal thing to strive for in the long run, he said that the main focus this year is a single rally with the features of a Family Reunion. In making an appeal, Scott said, “Let there be one March, One Platform, One Celebration that give true meaning to the chorus of the international song which says for the union makes us strong.” Rhetorically, he asked, “How can we on Labour Day sing solidarity forever” and “the union makes us strong when we are divided?” Minister Scott therefore stressed that history has presented the trade unions with a euphoria which should be taken advantage of and show case to the world at the beginning of the month of our Golden Jubilee that there can be unity in the movement. By the end of the meeting the unions were overwhelmingly in support of Minister’s Scott vision for a One May Day Rally and pledge to work towards its realization. Against that background he extended a written invitation to all trade unions to attend a meeting on February 2, 2016, with the sole purpose of establishing a committee for the management of the one rally. Meanwhile, Minister Scott is gearing to meet another group of stakeholders in the form of the employers and their umbrella bodies.
Page 29
Battle looms over repossession of Govt.’s core homes A move by Government to repossess a number of turnkey homes that were issued under a special housing programme will be meeting resistance. On Wednesday, former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, warned that measures by Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) to take back house lots and the Core Houses from applicants on the grounds on nonoccupancy would be illegal. Nandlall, a lawyer, explained that it is now public knowledge that the housing authority has made a decision to repossess properties from persons who were allocated a house and lot under the programme that had been launched by the Peoples’ Progressive Party/Civil (PPP/C) Government. “I call on all the beneficiaries of this programme not to submit to the authoritarianism and unlawful actions of the CH&PA. I urge that they seek legal advice and representation,” the PPP parliamentarian urged. Nandlall said that some of the allottees have consulted him. “...And I wrote to the CH&PA informing them that these persons contend that they are in possession of their properties; they cannot lawfully repossess these properties on the ground of nonoccupation. I made the matter public. I thought that the CH&PA would have abandoned this flagrant unconstitutional pursuit of expropriation of private property.” Nandlall claimed that it has now been drawn to his attention that the CH&PA recently resorted to threats, intimidation, artifice, trickery and deceit in getting persons to hand over to them their Agreements of Sale, Certificates of Title, keys to their premises and inducing them to sign certain documents, without any independent le-
PPP Parliamentarian, Anil Nandlall gal advice and without explaining to them the nature, purport and effect of those documents. “This entire course of action on the part of the CH&PA is unlawful and constitutes an abrogation of the protection, which the Constitution accords to the citizenry against the compulsory acquisition of their private property by the State.” The PPP official argued that the legal truth is that a Certificate of Title confers upon its holder absolute ownership of the property to which it relates subject only to registered encumbrances. “A person can only lawfully lose his Certificate of Title if it is established to the satisfaction of a Court of competent jurisdiction that he acquired same fraudulently. Certainly, a person cannot lose his property on the ground of non-occupancy. “ Under the Core Homes
project, applicants are asked to pay for the land and to contribute $100,000 towards the construction of the core house”. “These persons did so and Certificates of Title were issued to them for these properties. Prior to the issue of the title, these persons entered into an Agreement of Sale with the CH & PA,” Nandlall said. The agreement of sale contained a number of terms and conditions. It warned that the beneficiary has to give up the property if they fail to occupy it within one month of delivery. Nandlall said that on November 17, 2015, the CH&PA issued letters to a number of the beneficiaries of the programme informing them that they are in breach of obligations. CH&PA asked the recipients to collect a refund by submitting originals of all documents pertaining to the transaction. The administration has been complaining of a number of problems in the housing sector which has in recent years become a big driver of the economy. The authority has over 25,000 applications for homes and house lots on file, but with little lands available in the Demerara area. Scores of house lots have remained occupied with many of the owners migrating. The lands have been posing a problem in the numerous new housing schemes around the country with overgrown bushes and the very real security issues that comes with it.
Page 30
Kaieteur News
VACANCY Cook/baker and truck driver for the Interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana Passport application. Graphics design, Advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Building Construction, house plans & estimates, floor sanding, lacquering & painting, boat for Santa Mission –Call: 650-4362 Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezersCall:629-4946 or 225-4822 Mahadeo Construction for all construction, carpentry, masonry, pluming, painting etc. Free estimates and plan Contact # 669-7376 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.
TAXI SERVICES GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel:644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997
WANTED Damage batteries in any quantity, best price offeredCall: 696-5728, 656-2783, 6225941, 648-9395, 223-1111 One experienced Cummings Mechanic to work in the interior. Call: 678-0565 2 Male cleaners- Apply at Technical Services Inc, 18-23 Industrial Site, Eccles. E.B.D Merchandiser. Call: 231-6256 for more details. One Salesgirl and boy to work in shop, text your information to: 617-7823 Taxi drivers and contract car (dispatcher) salary paid for taxi drivers- Call: 231-0316 Wanted land to buy at Parfaite, Tuschen, Providence, Diamond, Eccles, Uitvlugt, best price pay-call: 604-6724 One live in maid-Call: 6683985; 264-2563 Coal Burners & body workman to work in Yarrowkabra. Call: 226-0395 One live domestic must know to cook, salary-$70,000$80,000 monthly - Call: 6103974 One experienced dispatcher. Call: 231-4000 Staff for plant shop: Literate, hardworking, pleasant, team player 18-28 years. Plant knowledge an advantage. Tel: 648-1821 Experienced cake decorator, roti/puri cooks, counter servers. Apply at Hack’s Halaal, 5 Commerce St. 1 Mechanic welder to work in the interior, interested persons can call 625-5136 on Mon-Fri between 8am-4pm. Live in home aid needed in Peters Hall: 1 week on, 1week off, must be 45plus- $13,000Call: 667-2535 5 Years and older, experienced truck driver (sand pit). Contact: 626-8003 Salesgirls, porters and security guard. Apply with written application at Lot 1E Dennis & Middleton Street, Campbellville.
Urgent: Cleaner & kitchen helper (dayshift) required at Aagman Indian Restaurant. Apply at aagmanrestaurant@gmail.com or call: 219-0158 Massage Therapist & cosmetologist: must be certified in facial waxing, manicure & pedicure. Call: 672-1239; 226-1172 1 Driver- apply at Technical Services; 18-23 Industrial Site, Eccles.
SALON
VEHICLE FOR SALE
- Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals and Black Opal - Cosmetology Courses - Nail Technician Course Call: 647-1773/660-5257 Earn a Certificate in cosmetology, nails, wig designs & hair cutting etc. Classes commencing February! Register Now! Call: 666-5241; 619-7603
1- Toyota Belta; lady driven $1.8M. Call: 647-1773
Hairdressers, nail technician, barbers, also hair & nail stations available for rental location: New Market StreetCall: 638-1106
Male security, male desk staff, room attendants, between ages 25-45yrs @233 South Road, Lacytown- Call: 2250198 Hicks Ville Hotel: Receptionist, Hotel Attendant, Washer/Presser, Bell Boy. Email: info@hicksvillehotelguyana. com/call:231-0951 Vegetarian Gardens: driver/ salesman. E-mail: info @vgiworld. com/ call:223-3448; 227-7714 Senior accounts clerk; apply in person at Alabama Trading Geogetown, Ferry Stelling. One experienced room maid. Call or text Sheik on 621-9759 or Donald: 673-4628 Security Officers, apply in person. Massey Security (Guyana) Inc, Lot 0 Ruimveldt, Georgetown. Call: 225-5773-6 Internal Security: Must Be Literate, 3 Years’ Experience, A Valid Police Clearance -Tel# :227-5195 Hairdressers, nail technician, barbers, also hair & nail stations available for rental location: New Market StreetCall: 638-1106
CAR RENTAL CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807 Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494 Vehicles for rental: cars, SUV, pickups etc, long term only @ Ray’s Motor Spares and Auto Sales. Call: 231-7839
EDUCATIONAL Private customs brokerage, training certificate course from 2nd Feb 2016, register now & save –Call: 694-8322; 223-1506 January Computer Deals: 9 Courses office 2016 @ Micrographics, Vreed-enHoop-Call: 264-3057. Earn your diploma now!
Drivers/Salesman to sell bakery products- Call: 2541399; 627-2515
Computerize Accounting: 4 courses: QuickBooks, POS, Peachtree, Excel 2016- Call Micrographics Vreed-enHoop-Call: 264-3057
PEN PAL
Afro-Guyanese male, age 52, is looking for friendship/ relationship, female 35-50yrs. Call or text: 610-7123
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Noah & Voxy: unregistered & fully loaded -$1.7M (black, white & silver). Call: 603-9700 Honda Accord, 2003, leather, TV, DVD, radio, 35,000km, like new, price negotiableCall: 689-1194
Mercedes Benz, CLK200 Kompressor, PRR, Mileage 72000, 2005 excellent condition. Call: 623-5492 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 Honda CRV 1995, price $1M negotiable, in excellent condition. Call: 216-1973; 667-3359 2008 Fielder- fully loaded vehicle, never registered $2.5M- Call: 617-2891 1-Volvo Crane & dump truck -$3M- Call: 619-0898 Noah & Voxy in ‘G’ series, fully loaded, never registered -$1.7M –Call: 617-2891
TO LET One- two bedroom upper back apartment @ C/Ville $55,000 –Call: 223-1051; 6195357; 650-0716 PROPERTY FOR SALE Front house lot @ 30 Ketley Street, Charlestown -$8M negotiable. Call: 625-1031
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Office Space at Camp Street Call Naz: 639-4499 1-3 Bedrooms upper flat @ Section ‘A’ Diamond, H/ Scheme E.B.D, fully grilled & concrete fence with parking space- Call: 6629335; 612-3244 One- two bedrooms apartment @ Alexander Village -$45,000 monthlyCall Kemo: 691-3097 Two bedrooms house “A” Field Sophia, fully grilled off Road Parking, CCTV, $40,000 monthly with 2 months security-Call:693-2237; 2190211 Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park -$90,000$80,000 negotiable, recently renovated, free wifi, 2 bedrooms. Call: 227-5194 1-3 Bedrooms bottom flat: toilet, bath, large sitting room & Kitchen, lately renovated in C/Ville area-$75,000 monthly. Call: 225-2147 Vreed-en-Hoop Junction: lessons places, storage bond or church -$25,000 per month. Call: 603-6400/2642123 One-two bedrooms apartment to rent @ First Field Cummings Lodge, U.G Call: 222-3435
Isuzu Truck 2.5 ton GNN 6385, New Model 1-212 Toyota Motor Car, PLL 739. Call: 639-6839 Sliver Nissan Murano, Late PNN series- $6M –Call: 6815548 or 695-5701
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PEN PAL
STAR CARS AUTO SALE: 30-06 PREMIO, 03-07 FIELDER, NEW RAUM, IST, BLUEBIRD, AXELA, PITBULL. CALL: 679-3140; 268-3509
BMW 318i- $2.9M, BMW 320i- $4M, Audi A4- $4M, Suzuki Escudo- $4M, new model Premio- $3MContact# 650-0402/260-4988
Office Clerk; apply Avinash Complex, Water Street Georgetown. Call: 226-3361; 227-7828, Grove E.B.D & Annandale E.C.D
Cook to prepare cutters $16,000 weekly and waitress. Free accommodation, preferably from country area- Call or whatsapp: 661-8802 DRESSMAKING Turn your flair for fashion into an exciting career or hobby. Enroll Now –Call: 626-2629; 676-6312
Friday January 29, 2016
One Toyota Mark 2 Grande for sale PKK series, owner l e a v i n g c o u n t r y, p r i c e $1.5M negotiable. Call: 601-4163 Modified Toyota Glanza$1M, 2005 Nissan Frontier 4 Wheel drive -$3M negotiable. Owner migratingContact: 614-2659 1-TM 4-wheel drive truck with crane -$3M, 1-TL 500 truck crane -$2M- Call: 619-0898
LAND FOR SALE ONE 50FTX80FT HOUSELOT WITH FENCE @ MON REPOS (MARTYRSVILLE) E.C.D, PRICE -$3.9M NEGOTIABLE. CALL: 2200538/645-2395 (JOEL)/ 629-5300 Double lot 9950 Sq. Ft @ Republic Gardens, Price $25M (negotiable). Call: 6247686
AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms - Call:680-3154 To y o t a R a u m , S p a c i o , AT192, Allion, L-Touring Wagon, EP71-starlet, IST, Nissan March & Pickup 4X4 (4door). Call: 6445096; 697-1453 1- Toyota Surf with 3RZ engine -$2.9, 1-double cab pick-up -$1M. Call: 6190898
Continued on page 31
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news
Sugar and politics have always... From page 4 development economics (econometric models and quantitative methods for project analyses) helps not only to promote economic development, economic growth and structural change but also in improving the potential for the mass of the population, for example,
through health and education and workplace conditions, whether through public or private channels. Sir Arthur Lewis spent practically his whole life articulating models for developing countries, in particular those that are predominantly agrarian with a surplus rural labor, and enjoying a com-
parative advantage in agriculture production. For him, agriculture, along with agro-based industries, was seen as the engine of growth that would transform over time the economic, industrial and institutional structure of an underdeveloped economy. For this he was awarded
Even mild corporate...
From page 4 Marriot Hotel to tackle domestic violence in Guyana. An overwhelming body of research now shows that even mild and moderate corporal punishment has harmful side effects. Documented negative effects of corporal punishment that reach into adulthood include mental health issues, criminal behaviors and aggression. Given that children learn relationship skills and social behaviors in the home and mostly at school, it is not surprising that those who witness or experience corporal punishment are more likely to perpetuate those patterns in adulthood. In fact, some research has found a direct correlation between the level of abuse experienced by mothers and the beliefs of primary school children about the intrinsic dominance of men in society. Research also suggests that, by adolescence, children who have experienced corporal punishment or witnessed often acts of aggravated physical outburst from figures of authority often have trouble trusting others and forming healthy intimate relationships. This leads young people to question whether they would be able to have control over their aggression and become non aggressive spouses, friends, or peers. Violent forms of physical domestic abuse of all kinds happen daily in Guyana, and thousands of people have died and even more are suffering from the psychological scars which live on for generations. Yet we are still debat-
ing if the use of force and aggression in our schools should be maintained and upheld. A growing public concern and strong research evidence supporting the negative impacts of corporal punishment to children has led 35 countries to ban corporal punishment in the past thirty years. People are not saying that teaching is uncomplicated, yet as teachers, parents and caregivers, it is incumbent on you to guide our children’s behavior towards being the best human beings they can be.
This brings me highlight some important characteristics of a positive environment where an alternative approach towards discipline can be developed. Teachers could start inculcating strategies to: . as an interim to measure, identify and use non violent disciplinary measures such detention . collaborate with all stakeholders to find long-term solutions that develop our children’s own self-discipline; . build a mutually respectful relationships between teacher and child; . frequently promote non-violence and respect for children as learners; . involve at all times clear communication of teachers expectations, rules and boundaries; . work on increasing children’s competence and confidence to handle challenging situations; . impress on children the importance of courtesy, non-violence, empathy, self-respect, human rights and respect for others. Abdel Fudadin
the Nobel Prize in economics. Unfortunately, his expertise was not adequately utilized in the Caribbean. Today, the Caribbean, a place that has such great soil, and a population of about six million people, has a food import bill of $2 billion and more every year. What lesson is there for Guyana, the bread basket of the Caribbean, to learn? But, let us coming back to Wales and the issues of displaced labor, peasant cane farming and utilization of land. (1) How feasible and practical would it be to send cane cutters who usually start their day at 5.00 AM, from Wales 20 -30 miles to Uitvlugt, (and as one “expert” suggested, across the river to Enmore which is even farther than Uitvlugt)? (2) Secondly, pursuing and expanding peasant cane farming at Wales and transporting canes to Uitvlugt is not a viable, nor is it a long term solution, for (a) It will be more costly;(b) Eventually Uitvlugt will also be closed; (c) From figures obtained at Wales, peasant cane farming at Wales is relatively more expensive than Guysuco in terms of tons cane/acre, and tons sugar/acre; (d)This option ignores the real problem. It is the cost of Guysuco producing RAW SUGAR that is the problem. The punt system, drainage and irrigation, and labor supply are directly connected to the tremendous comparative advantage Guysuco has in going the diversification route, and this further reinforces the economic model propounded by Sir Arthur Lewis. And, in similar context, I would also recommend readers to revisit my article on “Guysuco and Diversification” published by GC and KN, August 12 -15. 2015. Gokarran Sukhdeo
PROPERTY FOR SALE Plaisance, Betterhope, B.V, Diamond, Parfaite Harmonie, Land of Canaan Public Road$60M negotiable. Call: 6416635 or 678-1575 Hutson Ville E.B.D Bungalow- 3 bedrooms (1 self contained) A/C, hot & cold water, secured-$16M negotiable .Call:625-5431; 622-3736; 697-4131 One roadside, 2 storey building @ V/Hoop, ground excellent for restaurant or other business –Call: 6540779
From page 30
LAND FOR SALE Eccles (already land filled)$5M, Herstelling (110ftX90ft) -$4.5M, Parfaite Harmonie Main Road- $1.6M, Zeelugt$1.6M. Call: 611-7223; 6042207 Parfaite Harmonie -$ 1.6M, 1.8M, $1.5M, 1.3M, Tuschen 11 street -$3M with foundation, Phase 2 – $1.4M, Providence -$3.5M, Terms available – Call: 604-6724 Westminster Major Road$1.8M, Onderneeming $1.5M, Dairy (100ftX50ft) $2.8M & Pafaite Harmonie with foundation & structure -$2.6M. Call: 604-2207; 6117223 Land in Diamond -$5M, Parfaite-$1.5M, $2M, Schoonord -$3M, Herstelling -$4M. Call: 6416635 or 678-1575 Land for sale in gated community, Providence E.B.D -$9.5M negotiable. Phone: 621-6888 Providence E.B.D- land in commercial area, 80X200. Beautiful location. Call: (592) 601-1867, email: nepglobe2014@yahoo.com
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Wholesale & Retail quantity of all types of belts Call: 670-2343 ADORABLE PUPPIES FOR SALE. CALL: 6004212 AMERICAN BULLYDOGS, REMYLINE&GOTTILINECONTACT HARRY: 6100068/220-7933, WHATSAPP: 667-4845 TM 6X6 parts for sale: engines, gearbox, power box, def, drive shaft, etc. Call: 601-7001 Lots @ Blankenburg behind the gas station- $3.9M- Call Us Today: 650-0402 Over 12,000 stamps from 1840 to 1940 from all over the world, old coins etc. Call: 624-7341; 227-6817 Minibus, SUV, Pickup 39.8 rear deferential & 14.5ft fiberglass boat with trailer and 35HP motor- Call: 6789536
PROPERTY FOR SALE
290 MF Tractor- $1.4M, 330TK Bedford dump truck$1.2M; in working orderCall: 614-9262; 604-2540
Property for sale, Grove $20M / Rent: $50,000 per month. Tel: 625-5461.
One slate pool table, price $300,000- Call: 228-2098; 628-5796
Lot 1884, 20 Ave, First corner, Diamond H/Scheme, 3 bedrooms, flat house- Call: 662-4676, 602-9403
Household items: carpet, blender, dinette set, wall divider, blinds & many more items. Owner migrating- Call Allison: 688-5446
Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities –Call: 662-9335; 612-3244
Dachshund pups mix with Pekingese for sale – 7weeks old -$20,000, males only. Call: 677-2476
Church and 2 storey building Lot 180 Charlotte Street Bourda-Call: 227-6817; 6247341 70 Acres Transported river side land f o r $ 4 0 M negotiable. Call: 678-1575 or 641-6635 Two house & land for sale, excellent condition, one located at Tuschen & one at Goed-Fortuin. Call: 668-3985; 660-3235 One 5 bedrooms, 2 storey & 3 self contained room, was a shop; previously renovated -$24M @ Lot 1313 Norton St. Call: 619-1570
Gang Nail Plates, in stock: 3X4, 4X6, 5X7- Call 2664166; 666-2361 Mon-Sat between 8-6pm Vaccinated pit-bull pups, price $30,000-Call: 625-0343; 688-6090 1-6" Dredge complete with Lavador -$6M- Call: 6190898 A quantity of ¼” Steel cord wire rope, in lengths of 18ft only - $1,000 per length. Call: 672-8844 1-20Ft. Brand new boat, 125lbs, 4"X5", nylon seine complete. Call: 670-3912
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Friday January 29, 2016
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Budget 2016 to be presented today Finance Minister, Winston Jordan is expected to present to the National Assembly today, the Budget to cover the fiscal year. In a brief interview with Kaieteur News on Wednesday, Jordan said that the country recorded negative inflation while certain sectors failed to perform as expected. He explained that deflation, or negative inflation, happens when prices fall because the supply of goods is higher than the demand for those goods. This is usually because of a reduction in money, credit or consumer spending. The Finance Minister also noted that while the Natural Resources Sector initially fell under the Ministry of the Presidency, it was decided by Cabinet that it would be removed and treated as a separate entity. He said that as opposed to what took place initially, there will now be a separate appropriation for that Ministry, which will be handled by Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman. Also of note is the fact that the economy failed to reach its growth rate of 3.4 percent for 2015. Jordan confirmed that a modest estimate of two to three percent was realized. He said however that a number of reasons were blamed for this. Jordan said that apart from three sectors, which generally performed poorly, getting the economy into acceleration mode after the May 2015 elections proved to be a major challenge. “The economy after the elections was slow and this impacted the growth. The 3.4 percent growth rate was not met. We banked a lot on the Public Sector Investment Programme, which we hoped would have picked up rapidly, but many of them are still in the preliminary stages. We were faced with a number of implementation problems and as a result of this, work got underway later than projected, so the construction sector really fell down badly.” With regard to the plans for the construction sector, a number of projects were outlined. Jordan in his maiden budget speech had announced that Government intends to ensure the construction of new road links, particularly a road linking the two international airports - that provides an alternative option to the East Bank Highway; and the linking of the city and coastland to the new townships of Bartica, Mahdia and Lethem. He said, too, that Government would be seeking to develop a more creative and cost-effective investment model to construct a new fixed bridge across the Demerara River. In 2015, the sum of $13 billion was allocated for en-
WHO says Zika virus spreads explosively, 4 million cases forecast
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan hancing the roads and bridges network throughout Guyana. In an effort to ease congestion and reduce travel time, the Government proposed urgent expansion of the East Coast Demerara Highway. Additionally, over $1.6 billion was budgeted for the upgrade of the Sheriff Street/ Mandela Avenue Road, in order to make it a modern thoroughfare for Georgetown. Further, a total of $1.2 billion was budgeted for the completion of the East Bank Demerara Highway, which provides improved transit from Providence to Great Diamond. The Finance Minister had also disclosed Government’s plans to link the Sheriff Street/ Mandela Avenue urban development to peri-urban communities. He said that Government would be investing $387 million to upgrade the Sophia “Ring Road”. Jordan had said that rural development will materialize through investments of $544 million to upgrade community roads and bridges in the 10 Administrative Regions. Similarly, a provision of $1.2 billion was made to upgrade more than 28 km of farm-tomarket access roads and bridges located in Laluni, Onverwagt, Parika and Ruby Backdams. The Finance Minister had said that Government would also construct a road link between Parika and Goshen that will provide an alternative access route to Bartica; construct all-weather roads in Regions Seven and Nine, to open new opportunities to exploit Guyana’s natural resources and upgrade internal roads in the proposed new towns of Bartica, Mahdia and Mabaruma. Another disappointing sector identified by Jordan was Forestry. He said that the projections for this area were optimistic, but it did not perform as expected. “This sector had one of the hardest hits in recent
times. We expected it to pick up but it did not. Another disappointment was the bauxite sector. That too, fell short of our expectations. But for 2015, sugar, rice and gold performed well.” In his 2015 Budget speech, Jordan noted the Forestry Sector’s performance in 2014 and the problems and issues encountered in the sector. Based on those concerns, he said that the Government would undertake a thorough review of the Investment Agreements for this sector to ensure that there is compliance with Regulations and the Agreements and to ensure sustainable harvesting of the forestry product. He noted that the original projection in January 2015, was for the 2014 production levels to be sustained. However, forestry production was down by 9.8 percent in mid 2015. As a consequence, the sector’s performance for 2015 was downgraded from January’s projection of zero growth to a negative 1.3 percent. As for the early projections for growth in bauxite, it was pegged at a 10.3 percent recovery, in 2015. This was after two consecutive years of decline in 2013 and 2014. Strengthening of world market demand and prices were the key premises informing this projection. Output was targeted at 1,754 thousand tonnes, up from the 1,564 thousand, in 2014. Jordan recalled that not unlike what was earlier seen in the other sectors, output at midway point in 2015 of 747,542 tonnes was actually 14.8 percent below the first half production in 2014. As a consequence, total output was scaled back to a more realistic 1,635 thousand tonnes, predominated by the lower value grades of bauxite. This represents a negative growth for 2015 of 5.7 percent. Jordan however projected a three to four percent growth for 2016.
Reuters - The Zika virus, linked to severe birth defects in thousands of babies in Brazil, is “spreading explosively” and could infect as many as 4 million people in the Americas, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said yesterday. Director-General Margaret Chan told members of the U.N. health agency’s executive board the spread of the mosquito-borne disease had gone from a mild threat to one of alarming proportions. The WHO would convene an emergency meeting on Monday to help determine its response, she said. “The level of alarm is extremely high,” Chan told the Geneva gathering. “Last year, the virus was detected in the Americas, where it is now spreading explosively. As of today, cases have been reported in 23 countries and territories in the region,” Chan said, promising quick action from the WHO. The agency was criticized last year for reacting too slowly to West Africa’s Ebola epidemic, which killed more than 10,000 people, and it promised to cut its response time. “We are not going to wait for the science to tell us there is a link (with birth defects). We need to take actions now,” Chan said, referring to the condition called microcephaly in which babies are born with abnormally small heads and brains that have not developed properly. There is no vaccine or treatment for Zika, which is like dengue and causes mild fever, rash and red eyes. An estimated 80 percent of people infected have no symptoms. Much of the effort
Dr. Margaret Chan against the illness focuses on protecting people from mosquitoes and reducing mosquito populations. Developing a safe and effective vaccine could take a year, WHO Assistant Director Bruce Aylward said, and it would take six to nine months just to confirm whether Zika is the actual cause of the birth defects, or if the two are just associated. “In the area of vaccines, I do know that there has been some work done by some groups looking at the feasibility of a Zika virus vaccine. Now something like that, as people know, is going to be a 12-month-plus time frame,” he said. U.S. health officials said the United States has two potential candidates for a Zika vaccine and may begin human clinical trials by the end of this year, but there will not be a widely available vaccine for several years.
Marcos Espinal, head of communicable diseases at the Pan American Health Organisation, the WHO’s Americas arm, forecast 3 to 4 million Zika cases in the Americas. As the virus spreads from Brazil, other countries in the Americas are likely to see cases of babies with Zikalinked birth defects, according to Carissa Etienne, regional director for the Pan American Health Organisation. Brazil has reported around 4,000 suspected cases of microcephaly, vastly more than in an average year and equivalent to 1 to 2 percent of all newborns in the state of Pernambuco, one of the worst-hit areas. The WHO’s Chan said that while a direct causal relationship between Zika virus infection and birth malformations has not yet been established, it is strongly suspected.
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Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
North Korea activity points to possible space launch - U.S. officials Reuters - The United States has seen increased activity around a North Korean site suggesting preparations for a possible space launch in the near future, U.S. officials told Reuters yesterday. The officials cited intelligence suggesting movement of components and propellant, adding the United States believed a test could take place even within a couple of weeks. “Our concern though is ... it’s the same technology to develop ICBMs” (inter-continental ballistic missiles), one of the officials said. U.N. Security Council members were discussing fresh sanctions against North Korea after it conducted its fourth nuclear test on Jan. 6. The Pyongyang government is already under sanctions for its nuclear and missile programs. North Korea last conducted a long-range rocket launch in late 2012, successfully putting into orbit an object it claimed was a communications satellite. Western and Asian experts said it was
part of an effort to build an inter-continental ballistic missile. Earlier yesterday, Japan’s Kyodo news agency reported North Korea may be preparing to launch a long-range missile as soon as within a week. South Korean Defence Ministry spokesman Kim Min-seok declined to comment on whether there were pre-launch activities at the site, citing a policy of not discussing intelligence matters. He said North Korea had issued no international warnings on navigation, however, as it has ahead of previous long-range rocket launches. U.S. Secretary of State
John Kerry warned during a trip to China this week of the dangers of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s pursuit of an ICBM, particularly given its declared intention to develop one with the capacity to carry a nuclear warhead. “This is threat to any nation in the world, but particularly we in the United States understand what his purpose is and therefore it is a threat the United States must take extremely seriously,” Kerry told reporters in Beijing on Wednesday. “The United States will do what is necessary to protect people in our country and our friends and allies in the world,” Kerry said.
Satellite images show five possible Burundi mass graves – Amnesty Reuters - Satellite images show five possible mass graves on the outskirts of Burundi’s capital at sites consistent with testimony by witnesses who accused security forces of killing dozens of people in December, Amnesty International said yesterday. Witnesses said graves were dug on the afternoon of Dec. 11, and before and after images and video footage show disturbed earth at five sites in the Buringa area on the edge of Bujumbura, rights group Amnesty said in statement. “These images suggest a deliberate effort by the authorities to cover up the extent of the killings by their security forces and to prevent the full truth from coming out,” said Muthoni Wanyeki, Amnesty’s regional director for East Africa, the Horn and the Great Lakes. A spokesman for Burundi President Pierre Nkurunziza
was not immediately available for comment on the Amnesty report. On Dec. 11 gunmen attacked military bases. U.N. human rights chief Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein said the authorities responded with house searches, arrests and alleged summary executions. The fighting killed at least 87 people, but Zeid said figures from other sources were considerably higher. The United Nations said it is also analysing satellite images to investigate witness reports of at least nine mass graves in and around the capital Bujumbura, including one in a military camp, containing more than 100 bodies in total. African states are trying to push Nkurunziza to accept peacekeeping troops at a summit this week to prevent Burundi sliding back into ethnic conflict but there is little hope that he will agree, officials said.
If the African Union sent in the force without Burundi’s consent it would have to invoke Article 4 of the union charter, which gives it the right to intervene “in respect of grave circumstances, namely: war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity.” The African Union would also seek U.N. Security Council approval for such a deployment. Nkurunziza’s re-election for a third term last year sparked the crisis, which has raised fears of an ethnic conflict in a region where memories of neighbouring Rwanda’s 1994 genocide remain fresh. The U.N. Security Council travelled to Burundi last week. The United Nations estimates the death toll at 439 but says it could be higher. More than 240,000 people have fled abroad and the country’s economy is in crisis.
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IOC executive Anita DeFrantz joins LA Olympic bid International Olympic Committee executive board member and former Olympian Anita DeFrantz was named as a senior advisor for the group trying to bring the 2024 Summer Games to Los Angeles, LA24 said yesterday. In her volunteer role, DeFrantz, the captain of the bronze medal-winning U.S. rowing team at the 1976 Olympics, will advise how a potential 2024 Olympics in Los Angeles could benefit the city’s
next generation of residents, LA24 said in a statement. DeFrantz, 63, recently stepped down from her role as president of the LA84 Foundation that represents the legacy projects from the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. That group received 40 percent of the 1984 Games’ proceeds and has invested over $225 million to support more than 2,000 youth sports organizations and continues to provide Los Angeles youth
with recreation and sports opportunities. ”In my 28 years as president of the LA84 Foundation, we served youth through sports and enhanced the knowledge of sport in society,” DeFrantz, who was elected to IOC membership in 1986, said in a statement. ”I am excited to have the chance to build a new Olympic legacy for Los Angeles with the LA 2024 Candidature Committee.” (Reuters)
$700,000 up for grabs... (From page 37) $1Million and the President’s trophy. This game includes WI T20 Captain Darren Sammy, Chris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo, Jason Holder, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Smith, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul and Rajendra Chandrika, among others. Meanwhile, Trophy Stall has contributed the President’s trophy as well as those for the man-of-the-
match, winner of the Demerara vs Berbice match, masters and man-of-thematch in that game, female game winner and player-ofthe-match. Trophy Stall is also is sponsoring the uniform of the Demerara female team and will also provide all of the soft balls. Meanwhile, Regal and Berbice are the latest teams to announce their squads. Regal: Chien Gittens (Captain) Richard Latiff, Kawson
Joseph, Navin Singh, Safraz Esau, Roohit Dutchin, Delroy Rerreira, Sewchand Budhu, Fazal Rafee, Shachin Singh, Ameer Nizamudin, Ricky Sergeant, Pritvinath Motielall, Balram Roopnaraine, Tyrone Sanasie, Clive Grimmond (Coach), Mahendra Arjune (Manager) Berbice Karibee Rice Boyz: Jason Sinclair, Rajiv Ivan, Keon Sinclair, David Looknauth, John Percival, Balram Samaroo, Ray Jaferally, Krishnanand Balgobin, Darshan Challitar, Seon Hetmeyer , Seeindra Marimutoo, Anthony Ramoutar, Heetar Gobin, Oliver Giddings, Chandrashakker Arjune, Javed Mohamed,Manager/ Coach Delbert Hicks.
Friday January 29, 2016
Venture is Paradise Bachelors Adventure YS&CC President Gordon Venture was elected President of the Paradise Bachelors Adventure Youth, Sport and Culture Club when the body held its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday. Rudolph Mc Pherson will serve as the Vice President,
Aaron Blackman Secretary, Orlando Moseley Treasurer and Wesley Ramsey Assistant Secretary Treasurer. The objective of the club is to lead the social, cultural, economic, political and spiritual development of its members in the communities of Paradise, Bachelors
Adventure, Melanie Damishana, Bareroot and Paradise Housing Scheme. The club will focus on the establishment of a multipurpose center at the Paradise Playfield for the technical and vocational training of youths.
Ramdhani re-elected GBA... (From page 38) the development of Guyanese players since Suriname has a good standard. Guyana Olympic Association has made it possible for players to attend tournaments which gave them exposure and experience. The Coach feels this was proven with Guyana’s latest
53rd ranking. The Student Athlete Scholarship Programme was one such instance where the players benefited. “We would also like to encourage parents to get their children involved in Sports as it helps them to be a well rounded persons” the GBA Head concluded. The Management commit-
tee elected to serve from 2016217: President - Gokarn Ramdhani, Vice President - Dr. Nicholas Waldron, Secretary - Emelia Ramdhani, Assistant Secretary - Ayanna WickhamWatson, Treasurer - Darrell Carpenay, Assistant Treasurer - Marlon Chung, Committee Members - Ryan Chang, Gillian Mangra, Ernesto Choo-A-Fat.
Friday January 29, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Be prepared to have relatives or close friends introduce you to new and exciting individuals. You can make career moves that will be prosperous. Accomplishment is yours if you direct yourself accordingly.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Jealousy may get in the way of a good relationship. Don't let your personal problems interfere with your professional responsibilities. You will be able to make changes regarding your living arrangements.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Take action. Don't take advantage of your expense account. Unexpected changes in friendships could occur.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You would be best to work late in order to avoid such disharmony. You may find your nights sleepless due to bad dreams. You might be overly emotional concerning situations at work.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You can meet potential new mates if you socialize with friends. Be cautious and use your head wisely in situations that deal with the use of machinery or vehicles. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You'r e i n t u i t i v e t o d a y ; h o w e v e r, t h i s a t t r i b u t e could get you in trouble if you tactlessly say what you think. Do not expect too much from others. Be sure to take care of any minor ailments.
SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Health problems may prevail if you haven't been getting enough rest. You may find yourself changing plans for some form of entertainment. You may attract attention if you get out socially. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You may want to take another look at the investment you are about to make. You'll have problems with authority figures if you don't play by the rules.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You should be looking at ways to spoil yourself. Financial limitations may add to your depression. Don't make financial contributions in order to impress others.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Difficulties with older females in your family may turn out to be quite trivial after all. Sooner or later your partner will have had enough.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Get involved in groups that will help you meet established individuals. Take the time to do something nice for your friends and relatives. Plan a nice evening for two.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may find yourself in the midst of a pretty good deal. You can make positive changes in your home. Try to deal with it quickly; don't dwell on past regrets.
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Spurs bounce back, beat Rockets by 31 points The Sports Xchange Lessons learned. Statement made. Moving on. The San Antonio Spurs wiped away the hurt from their worst loss of the season with a dominating 130-99 win against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday to remain undefeated at home. Forward LaMarcus Aldridge poured in 25 points and pulled down 10 rebounds to lead five San Antonio players who scored in double figures. The Spurs showed no hangover from a 30-point road defeat at the hands of Golden State on Monday and picked up where they left off in the AT&T Center by swamping Houston from the opening tip. Asked if his team responded well after the loss and an extensive film session Wednesday morning to review what went wrong, San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich had a typically succinct answer: “I guess you have to say ‘yes.’ You saw it.” San Antonio cemented the outcome by outscoring the Rockets by 23 points in the middle two quarters, relegating the fourth quarter mostly to a contest between the two teams’ bench players. The Spurs produced their season high for points. Forward Kawhi Leonard and
guard Danny Green scored 18 points apiece, guard Tony Parker added 15 points and seven assists and reserve center Boban Marjanovic added 13 points and 10 rebounds, all in the fourth quarter. San Antonio (39-7) improved to 25-0 at home this
season, the best start by a Western Conference team since the Portland Trail Blazers won their initial 26 home games in 1977-78. The victory also allowed the Spurs to extend their regular-season home victory streak to 34 games, dating to an overtime loss to Cleveland last March.
Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has backed a demand from drivers for higher-performance tyres. He told BBC Sport that “most drivers” wanted a shift away from the current tyres because they can rarely push to the limit on them. Ecclestone said he agreed “a million per cent” that F1 should be about drivers racing flat out at all times. “I have already told Pirelli that,” he said, adding the issue would be discussed at a meeting next month. However, he also defended F1’s supplier, claiming the teams needed to help Pirelli with its tyre development. “The bottom line is Pirelli supply the tyres in F1, they are the tyres we should use and the teams and drivers should work with Pirelli to perfect the tyres,” Ecclestone said. Ecclestone’s remarks follow those of Grand Prix Drivers’ Association chairman Alexander Wurz. He told BBC Sport earlier this week that the drivers wanted to “help and support Pirelli to construct a tyre fit for maximum-attack racing”. The drivers’ intervention came amid concerns among
senior figures in F1 that problems with the tyres could undermine planned rule changes for 2017 aimed at making the cars faster and more dramatic. These have already been watered down after Pirelli said its current tyres could not cope with the increased car performance without being run at what teams would consider extreme pressures. One senior insider told BBC Sport, on condition of anonymity, that the tyres and Pirelli’s refusal to say anything was wrong “are a big problem” and that “people are really upset”. This has led to a meeting, at Pirelli headquarters in Milan on 2 February, that will feature all the sport’s major stakeholders. “Whatever drivers want to turn up can turn up,” Ecclestone said. “Whatever teams want to turn up can turn up. It will be the president of Pirelli who is there, not a messenger.” Pirelli’s tyres for the 2016 season, which starts in Australia on 20 March, have already been designed and will have the same characteristics as in recent years. But Pirelli motorsport boss Paul Hembery said his
team were ready to listen to suggestions but said any solution had to satisfy everyone. ”We need clear direction,” he said, “and going forward from there we need to extensively test any solutions.” Although Pirelli signed up to F1 on the basis of there being restrictions on testing, Ecclestone said teams were putting the company in an impossible position by their reluctance to help with development. The 85-year-old said he wanted to see the top three teams and their top drivers putting work in, adding: “I want someone who can drive on the limit who can come back with an answer,” he said. ”Pirelli agree with me 100%. That’s what they have asked for - a top team with top drivers, not a team that can’t push to the limit and certainly not a driver who can’t.” Pirelli’s contract expires at the end of 2016 but Ecclestone announced at the Russian Grand Prix last October that it would continue supplying tyres until 2019 after beating off competition from Michelin. Asked about claims the new deal was not yet signed,
San Antonio Spurs point guard Ray McCallum (3) shoots the ball as Houston Rockets power forward Terrence Jones (6) defends during the second half at AT&T Center. Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
They also tied the best start in franchise history after 46 games. Houston (25-23), which had its three-game win streak snapped, was led by guard James Harden’s 20 points. Center Dwight Howard added 13 points and eight rebounds, reserve forwards Josh Smith
and Terrence Jones scored 11 points each and reserve guard Jason Terry had 10. The Rockets shot 52 free throws (making 35) to the Spurs’ 21 (with 18 makes). The Spurs, using a smaller lineup with guard Kyle Anderson in the starting lineup in place of injured forward Tim
Duncan, blitzed the Rockets early by hitting five of their first six shots from the field and building a 16-8 lead three minutes into the game. But the Rockets were hot as well, beginning 8 of 8 from the floor and bouncing back to take a 21-20 lead with 6:01 left in the quarter, setting the table for the shootout to come. The pace slowed a bit through the rest of the quarter and San Antonio led 35-29 after scoring its most points in the first quarter this season. Green hit 5 of 7 3-point attempts and had 15 points in the first half as the Spurs pushed their lead to 69-49 at halftime while scoring their most first-half points this season. By the midway point in the game, four San Antonio players (Green, Aldridge, Parker and Leonard) and two Houston players (Harden and Howard) already had scored in double figures. The Rockets needed a huge turnaround in the third quarter, but the Spurs dominated those 12 minutes as well, boosting their lead to 30 points at 98-68 with2:17 left. Aldridge did the bulk of the damage for the Spurs by scoring 11 points in the quarter, which ended with San Antonio up 102-73.
Bernie Ecclestone backs F1 drivers on tyres demands
F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone agreed a new deal with Pirelli chief Marco Tronchetti Provera to supply tyres until 2019, at the Russian GP. he said: “It has been agreed. I don’t know whether I have signed, or it’s signed. “The funny thing with the president of Pirelli and myself, we shake hands on something and that is like a signature as far as I am concerned and as far as he is.” Ecclestone admitted some teams would like to switch to Michelin but said he had rejected that idea. “They wanted to run F1,” he said of Michelin. “They wanted to
say exactly how everything should be run”. He also said he was worried the criticism of Pirelli could drive the company away from F1. Should that happen, he said, it would leave F1 in an “impossible” position with just a few weeks to the start of a new season. Pirelli became F1’s tyre supplier in 2011 with a commission from Ecclestone to ensure multiple pit stops in races. The mechanism it has
chosen to do this is a phenomenon called ‘thermal degradation’, which means a tyre is permanently damaged if it goes beyond a certain temperature. Drivers have to cope with this by ensuring the tyres never reach that threshold, but that means driving well below their maximum performance for the vast majority of a race. Sometimes, they cannot even push flat out on a single qualifying lap. (BBCsport)
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Kaieteur News
Friday January 29, 2016
Djokovic, Serena hit new heights in Melbourne semis Novak Djokovic hit some spectacular shots and showed true grit to hold off a Roger Federer fightback as he reached the final of the Australian Open for the fifth time in six years with a 6-1 6-2 3-6 6-3 victory yesterday. For the first two sets, 17times major champion Federer looked as powerless as Agnieszka Radwanska had earlier on the same court when the Pole was taken apart 6-0 6-4 by the reigni n g w o m e n ’s c h a m p i o n Serena Williams. Federer restored some pride by taking the third set and made the champion work hard through some breathtaking rallies in the fourth before the Serbian took his place in a title decider against Andy Murray or Milos Raonic. ”These were probably the best two sets I’ve played against (Roger) over my career,” said 28-year-old Djokovic, who will be bidding for a record-equaling sixth Australian Open title on Sunday. ”This was I think a different level than from before. I’m just very, very pleased that I was able to perform the way I did from the very beginning till the end.” Williams was in similarly dominant form in her semi-final as she set up a date tomorrow with Germany’s Angelique Kerber, who reached her first grand slam final by ending Briton Johanna Konta’s fairytale run 7-5 6-2. The 45th showdown be-
Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates after winning his semi-final match against Switzerland’s Roger Federer. Reuters/Thomas Peter tween Djokovic and Federer, the best two hardcourt players of their generations, was always going to be the highlight of day 11 of the tournament. Four days after he racked up 100 unforced errors in a messy fourth round win over Gilles Simon, Djokovic started brilliantly and played 55 minutes of near flawless power tennis to take a commanding two sets to nil lead. With the crowd making clear their desperation for the Swiss to avoid a humiliating defeat, however, Federer managed to find another gear to his serve, charged the net more frequently and snatched the third set. Now playing under a
closed roof, Djokovic took some time to regain his level in the fourth but grabbed the crucial break for a 5-3 lead and served out comfortably to reach his fifth straight grand slam final. ”You’ve got to try and stop the bleeding at some point,” said Federer. “It was tough to get back into it but I found a way and made something of a match of it. But clearly I’m still disappointed.” Williams’s 20-minute first set against Radwanska was as short as Djokovic’s start against Federer and only slightly less impressive because of the Pole’s lack of grand slam pedigree. ”There was just no mistake,” said fourth seed
Serena Williams of the U.S. reacts as she signs autographs after winning her semi-final match against Poland’s Agnieszka Radwanska. Reuters/Tyrone Siu Radwanska. “Unbelievable serve. Everything, she was going for it. Yeah, I couldn’t do much. Not at all, actually. “I don’t think anyone can really play on that kind of level at all.” Radwanska made the second set more of a contest but she had neither the power nor the skill to prevent the world number one marching on to her 26th grand slam final. ”I’ve always said that when I’m playing at my best, it’s difficult to beat me,” said 34-year-old Williams, who has won all six of her previous finals at Melbourne Park. Kerber stands between Williams and a 22nd grand slam singles title, w h i c h w o u l d a l low the
American to match the record of the German’s compatriot, childhood hero and mentor Steffi Graf. The 28-year-old seventh seed raced to a 3-0 lead in the opening set of her match against Konta but the Briton shed her early nerves and won the next four games to get back on serve. Kerber kept her own nerve, however, and secured a decisive break for 6-5 in the first set before overwhelming the world number 47 in the second. ”I’ve had a lot of ups, I had a lot of downs. I think the final cames to the right moment,” said Kerber, the first German in the women’s fi-
nal at Melbourne Park for 20 years. “I am a top player right now. I’ve been working very hard in the last few years. Here I am. I’m in the final for my first time. I will for sure try and enjoy it.” Konta was the first British woman into the last four at the Australian Open for 39 years after a remarkable run on her main draw debut at Melbourne Park. The Sydney-born 24year-old had no complaints about her defeat, however. ”I played against a better player today who earned her right to a grand slam final,” she said. “But I’m really taking a lot of positives out of it.” (Reuters)
IOC to issue Zika guidance as virus spreads before Rio Games The International Olympic Committee will issue guidelines this week aimed at protecting athletes and visitors from Zika, a mosquito-borne virus spreading rapidly across South America months before the Rio de Janeiro Games in August. IOC President Thomas Bach said yesterday a note would be sent to National Olympic Committees (NOCs) “today (yesterday) or tomorrow (today) at the latest,” as Rio prepares to host the world’s biggest sporting event on South American soil for the first time. ”We will do everything to ensure the health of the athletes and all the visitors,” Bach told reporters during a visit to Athens. “We are in close contact with the World Health Organisation (WHO) as well as with the organizing committee and the Brazilian authorities.”
The WHO warned yesterday that the disease, linked to birth defects in thousands of babies, was spreading “explosively” and could affect as many as four million people in the Americas. Zika has been clinically linked to a foetal deformation known as microcephaly, in which infants are born with abnormally small heads and brains. The virus, a close cousin of dengue and chikungunya, causes rash, mild fever and red eyes. Some 80 percent of those infected typically do not have symptoms, making it difficult for pregnant women to determine if they have the virus. No vaccine or treatment is currently available. LOW-SEASON FOR MOSQUITOES Rio 2016 organizers said
Thomas Bach.
the Games, from Aug. 5-21, will be during Brazil’s winter months when a “dryer, cooler climate significantly reduces the presence of mosquitoes”. They added Zika will be
discussed at a meeting with NOCs at IOC headquarters in Lausanne from Feb 1-2. ”The Olympic and Paralympic venues will be inspected on a daily basis dur-
ing the Rio 2016 Games to ensure there are no puddles of stagnant water and therefore minimize the risk of coming into contact with mosquitoes,” organizers said. Several countries are already warning their athletes about the virus. Russia’s Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko told local broadcaster Life News TV that athletes were particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases as heavy training reduces their immune system. “We are employing all protective measures,” he said. In Australia, officials are warning athletes of childbearing age they need to be aware of the specific risks of microcephaly and team members are being advised to wear long sleeves around stagnant water and heavy vegetation. The Australian team also recommended team members
not leave windows or doors open when staying in Rio and use air conditioning instead. “The health and wellbeing of all our team members is paramount, especially those females in the team of child bearing age,” said Australia’s Chef de Mission Kitty Chiller. A British Olympic Association spokesperson said: “As part of Team GB’s overall planning, our medical team has been liaising with specialists at the London School of Tropical Medicine, to ensure that team members are given the most up-to-date travel medicine advice, which includes information on bite prevention strategies. ”This information has already been shared with all sports and it will be continually updated prior to departure for the Olympic Games.” (Reuters)
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
Stag Crown Your Community Promotion kicks off this weekend Several communities across Guyana will have a chance to upgrade their football field when the second edition of Stag Crown Your Community promotion commences this weekend. The promotion which was launched yesterday at 704 Sports Bar will run for two months where two boxes will be placed at bars in the communities and customers will have to submit Stag crowns in the said boxes. The Stag team will inspect the boxes every week and at the conclusion of the promotion the community with the highest entries will be crowned the winner. That community will choose what they want to be done to their ground to the tune of G$3M (Three Million Dollars).
The grounds selected are Christianburg Community of Linden, Campton Football ground in Campbelleville, Western Tigers ground in West Ruimveldt, # 5 (Monedderlust) of West Berbice, Esplanade Park New Amsterdam, Grove Playfield East Bank Demerara, Timehri Red ground of East Bank Demerara, Den Amstel West Demerara, Walton Hall Essequibo Coast, Bartica Community ground and Golden Grove East Coast Demerara. Speaking at the launching Ansa McAl Public Relations Officer Ms. Dharshanie Yusuf said they are happy to be associated with such a promotion once again and informed that customers must be 18 years
and older to participate. She added that they want to see development in the various societies. President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde stated that while everyone would like to see football being played at a high level, appropriate facilities are important and congratulated Ansa McAl on such a venture. Forde pointed out that some facilities have deteriorated and Ansa McAl have demonstrated their willingness to help football once again adding that he would like to see these campaigns increase and the GFF will be happy to assist. Linden won the promotion in 2011 and as a result Mackenzie Sports Club was resurfaced. (Zaheer Mohamed)
CEO - Big opportunities for Super50
Jason Mohammed celebrates victory with teammates at Queen’s Park Oval. WICB Media/Ashley Allen St. John’s, Antigua - West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), CEO, Michael Muirhead is optimistic about what the Super50 tournament can achieve in a few years. This is following a successful end to its flagship regional oneday international tournament – the NAGICO Super50. The tournament which ended last Saturday (January 23) in Trinidad and Tobago saw the defending 2015 champions, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force take the title. The CEO is delighted at the opportunities this tournament presents and indicates that in future years, “there is a direct opportunity for corporate partners to align themselves with the WICB.” The tournament which has been held under the NAGICO banner in the last three has had a number of positives; “we are hoping to improve on some of the issues we encountered.” We are pleased with the performances of the players • Darren Bravo (Trinidad and
Tobago Red Force) was the top scorer with 274 runs • Suliemann Benn was the leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets; but we had four others with 14 wickets – JonRuss Jaggesar TT Red Force), Damion Jacobs (Jamaica Scorpions), Delorn Johnson (Windward Island Volcanoes) and Veerasammy Permaul (Guyana Jaguars) • Three of the existing Franchises had at least three players making debuts – Jaguars - Gudakesh Motie, Romario Shepherd and Kevon Boodie; Scorpions - Brandon King, Aldane Thomas and Jermaine Harrison; Pride Roston Chase, Justin Greaves and Dane Currency • The ICC Americas gave an overall credible performance – they had two games where they scored over 200 runs and some of their other games were lost in close encounters ”The potential for this tournament is tremendous, and in keeping with the Board’s policy on selection, this pool
of players will form the platform from which the West Indies ODI final team is selected for international home and away series,” reiterated the CEO. The ODI Tri-Nation series featuring South Africa, Australia and the West Indies will be held in June this year and the “best available eligible players will be selected.” The CEO was adamant that the 9th place ranking in World ODI was not something he wants on the record for much longer and he hopes for gradual improvement over the short to medium term. On the Cricket schedule in the next few weeks - The four-day PCL resumes on Thursday, February 11 after which the men’s and women’s teams will participate in the World T20 in India. The men’s team will be announced shortly. The ICC Under-19 championship is now on in Bangladesh and the WI team played their first match last night against England. (WICB)
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India-Bangladesh clash to kick off Asia Cup India and Bangladesh will kick-off the main round of the Asia Cup on February 24, but the weekend clashes may garner more attention. India and Pakistan play each other the following Saturday and hosts Bangladesh takes on Sri Lanka, the current title holders, on Sunday. The tournament will be played in Twenty20 format for the first time and all 11 matches including the final will be played at Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. India and Pakistan, who last met on the cricket field at the World Cup in 2015, are now set to play each other twice in three weeks: after their February 27 match in the Asia Cup, they have a World T20 match on March 19. It could be thrice in three weeks if both teams compete against each other in the final of the Asia Cup on March 6. While the tournament was
India and Bangladesh will kick off this year’s edition of the Asia Cup © AFP played in an ODI format, Sri Lanka have been the most prolific team in the tournament’s history. They have won 34 of 48 matches played and took the trophy home five times. Besides the four major nations, Afghanistan, Oman, Hong Kong and UAE will be
playing a qualifying tournament that starts on February 19. Each team will play three matches and the one that finishes on top will advance to the main event. In case two teams finish with the same points, their net run rates will be used as tiebreaker. (ESPNcricinfo)
Exclusive: FIFA candidates head to Qatar as Sexwale says ‘time for alliances’ Four of the candidates for President of FIFA are heading to Qatar for meetings tomorrow, with one of them, South African Tokyo Sexwale, saying “the time for alliances is coming”. The development suggests that electoral horsetrading might be about to begin in the battle to replace Sepp Blatter as head of football’s world governing body. Spokesmen for the frontrunners, Sheikh Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and Gianni Infantino, and for Sexwale confirmed to Reuters that they will be in Doha for a game tomorrow and to meet with Asian member associations of FIFA. A spokesman for Jordanian Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein, also a candidate, later confirmed he would be traveling to Qatar for tomorrow’s game - the final of the Asian Football Confederation Under-23 Championship between South Korea and Japan. The other candidates, Jerome Champagne, a former FIFA deputy general secretary, declined to comment on whether he would also be in Qatar. Speaking on South Africa’s Metro FM radio yesterday, Sexwale confirmed that he would also be in Qatar as a “guest of Sheikh Salman” and hinted at eventual support for an Asian candidate. ”The time for alliances is coming. This is the new thing that I am saying. It is healthy, democratic and it is good. “If I see that Tokyo’s chances are not good ... I am still FIFA, but which president would I want? The time for alliances will come,” he said. That time
Tokyo Sexwale. Reuters/Mohamad Torokman would be before the Feb. 26 vote, he said. ”We are now talking, this one is talking to me, that one is talking to me. But who is talking? We are brothers, we are colleagues, we are comrades in arms,” Sexwale said. One of the key power brokers in world sport, Kuwaiti Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fadah AlSabah, told Reuters in October that he hoped his ally Sheikh Salman, the Asian football chief, and Infantino, the general secretary of the European football body, UEFA, would strike a deal before the vote. ”I hope there will not be a difficult situation, I hope there will be a coordination and we will find a solution,” he said. Both Salman and Infantino have denied any deal is in place. Sexwale declined to discuss directly whether he would withdraw from the election but said he wanted to see an African or an Asian become the next president. ”There is this desperation of ‘withdraw’, ‘withdraw’. In whose interest?” he asked. “Let me tell you my strategy ... what is the bottom line? It
is not Tokyo Sexwale,” he said. “The bottom line for me, and I am appealing to Europe, to European voters, with the support of Europe let’s have an Asian or African president. That is the bottom line.” Sexwale’s campaign has been criticized by his own South African Football Federation. Although it stated its support for him this week, the group said his bid had been “low key” and asked him to “come and explain himself”. The South African, who was imprisoned in Robben Island during apartheid and was a close friend of Nelson Mandela, suggested Infantino would not be the right choice, as another Swiss following Blatter, who has been president since 1998. ”He is my friend, he is a buddy, but I would say maybe we should not replace Blatter with another Swiss,” he said. Blatter and Michel Platini, who had been a strong favorite to succeed him, were banned over a payment of two million Swiss francs ($2 million) FIFA made to Platini with Blatter’s approval in 2011 for work done a decade earlier. (Reuters)
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Kaieteur News
Friday January 29, 2016
ICC Under-19 World Cup 2016
Nepal topple New Zealand in thrilling encounter - Group D Nepal Under-19 players celebrate the run-out of New Zealand Under-19 opener Rachin Ravindra. ©BCB
The winner’s selfie, and its Pakistan Under-19s’ turn. ©ICC Nepal U-19 pulled off a dramatic 32-run win over New Zealand U-19 in a thrilling encounter in Fatullah. Nepal posted a total of 238 and then defended it by bowling New Zealand out for 206. Nepal have a win-loss record of 11-3 while defending totals of 150 or more. Five of those wins have come against Full Members. Things had looked dicey for Nepal when they were 68 for 3 after winning the toss and batting first. Captain Raju Rijal (48) and Aarif Sheikh (39) added 61 to bring the innings back on track. Some handy middle-order contributions, including a 23-ball 35 from Kushal Bhurtel helped Nepal to a competitive total. In fact, Nepal’s 238 for 7 is their highest in Youth ODIs. Fast bowler Nathan Smith picked up three wickets but went for 58 runs in his 10 overs. After a middling start in the chase - New Zealand were 32 for 2 in the ninth over - Glenn Phillips (52) and Josh Finnie (37) strung together a 72-run stand. However, both men fell in quick succession and soon the innings itself threatened to fall apart. Dale Phillips, at No. 7, did his best with 41 off 50 balls, and along with Smith brought the equation down from 95 off 60 to 41 off 24. Medium-pacer Dipendra Singh Airee then
swung the game decisively in Nepal’s favour with a double strike. They now have a winloss record of 20-17 in all Youth ODIs and their winloss ratio of 1.176 is by far the best among non FullMember teams. India beat Ireland A couple of half-centuries from Sarfaraz Khan and Washington Sundar helped India U-19 overcome a dodgy start and beat Ireland U-19 by 79 runs and record their 11th win on the trot. Joshua Little, who earned praise from his captain Jack Tector for the amount of pace he generated, picked up 3 for 52 and fellow seamer Rory Anders with 3 for 35 had dragged India down to 55 for 4. Ireland had opted to bowl and would have felt that decision was vindicated until Sarfaraz and Washington put on 110 runs in 104 balls to swing the momentum back in India’s favour. Sarfaraz struck 74 runs off 70 balls with seven fours, but his skill was in manipulating the field and securing ones and twos. Washington, who now has six fifties in seven matches, pushed India past 200 and Zeeshan Ansari’s run-a-ball 36 took the total to a formidable 268. Ireland’s chase was bogged down by
too many dot balls and not enough urgency from their batsmen. The times when they did try to make something out of nothing, India’s fielders made them pay. Ishan Kishan, who bagged a duck earlier, hit the stumps direct to run Stephen Doheny out in the third over and 10 balls later Armaan Jaffer followed suit and had Tector short of his ground. Fast bowler Avesh Khan (10-1-24-2) hustled the batsmen with his pace and bounce while left-arm quick Khaleel Ahmed (9-1-36-1) maintained a steadfast line of attack on off stump to lend proof to their captain’s Kishan’s words that India handn’t been nervous when their middle order collapsed because they had a skillful bowling attack. Among them was 16-year old legspinner Ansari, who has a googly and a flipper in his repertoire. Medium pacer Rahul Batham took the most wickets with 3 for 15. Ireland were anchored by fifties from William McClintock (58 off 86) and Lorcan Tucker (57 off 89). Both batsmen displayed the aptitude for the big shots, but they weren’t able to sustain their hitting. They put on the highest partnership of the match - 113 off 151 balls - but faced a required rate of 8.89, which had to be maintained over 18 overs. Both men fell in the final 10 overs and Ireland were all out in the 50th overs. Pakistan trounce Afghanistan Group B Pakistan U-19 cruised to a six-wicket win with 111 balls to spare in their tournament opener against Afghanistan U-19 in Sylhet. Pakistan opted to bowl and it proved an excellent decision as legspinner Shadab Khan and seamer
Hasan Mohsin ran through Afghanistan. Shadab picked up 4 for 9 in five overs and Mohsin returned figures of 3 for 24. Only Tariq Stanikzai, who compiled a 76-ball 53, was able to resist them as Afghanistan fell from 98 for 3 to 126 all out. Pakistan lost Captain Gauhar Hafeez for 1 in the chase, but Zeeshan Malik (29) and Mohammad Umar (25) helped them recover. Mohsin
struck 28 off 36 as well to be named Man of the Match. Zia-ur-Rehman picked up two wickets while Rashid Khan, who has already represented Afghanistan on the international stage, claimed one victim. Sri Lanka U19 produced a dominant display with both bat and ball to beat Canada U19 by 196 runs in Sylhet. After choosing to bat, Sri Lanka piled on 315 on the
back of fifties from Kaveen Bandara, captain Charith Asalanka, Shammu Ashan and Vishad Randika. Wanidu Hasaranga struck three fours and two sixes in his 13-ball 28 to provide the impetus to the end of the innings on a high. In response, only Arslan Khan manged to score more than 22 for Canada as they were bowled out for 119 in the 40th over. (ESPNCricinfo)
Carona Beer Beach Football to kick off Sunday in Linden By Sean Devers The first ever official Beach football competition kicks off on Sunday at the Bayrock Soccer Park in the mining Town of Linden with the opening ceremony and five matches from 16:00hrs. President of the Guyana Beach Football Association (GBFA) Rollin Tappin speaking at the launching of the Corona Beer National League at the Palm Court Bar in Main Street yesterday said that it was an important day in Guyana’s sports history. Tappin disclosed that the GBFA was constituted on October 16, 2015 and its main objective was develop the game of Beach football in Guyana with an aim of eventually qualifying for the Beach football World Cup slated for July 2017 in the Bahamas. Tappin, who hails from Region 10 is confident that if this version of the game gets the necessary support from all the stakeholders, Guyana’s Beach Soccer team could become the first football team to play in a World Cup.
Tappin has been involved in this format of football for the past six years and decided that Guyana has the main na t u r a l r e s o u r c e f o r Beach Football which is sand. “I think the time was right to take the sport to a new level,” the 41-year-old said. Tappin commended the GFF executives, under new President Wayne Ford, for the hard work they are doing in only four months of existence and welcomed former Brazil Beach Football Coach Leo Braga to Guyana. The Brazilian is here to Coach the newest version of football to the Guyanese players and initially 10 teams will be evenly divided in two groups of five with one representing Georgetown and the other representing East Bank. The GBFA Head has developed a six-point development strategy in which he wants the Government, the GFF and Corporate Guyana to be involved. Tappin intends to set up high quality Coaching, focus on youth develop-
ment; provide players with exposure to regular high quality overseas competition, to gain the support of the Media, capacity building and empowerment. Tappin explained that the cost to see the games is $300.00 with half of that going back to the clubs which would help to generate funding for them. The winning team gets $200,000, second placed side collects $100,000, third place $75,000 and fourth place, $50,000. Tappin stated that their Calendar of events for the year includes a clinic for schools in the Essequibo area which will kick-start the youth development programme. This programme will continue with clinics in Berbice and other parts of the country. ”In an effort to decentralise the sport we are starting a competition in Lethem on March 1. Guyana Football Federation President Wayne Forde pledged his full support for the League and informed that FIFA sends money for all three formats of football to Guyana.
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
Ansa McAl hands over cheque for WDFA/Derrick Josiah Mem. KO
Ansa McAl PRO Ms. Darshanie Yussuf (centre) presents the cheque to WDFA’s VP Ms. Christine Smith. At left is Stag Beer Rep. Lindon Henry. The West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) has collected the cheque that will cover prizes for the 2nd annual Stag Beer/Derrick Josiah Memorial Knockout competition, the final set for Sunday at the Den Amstel Ground, West Coast Demerara. Public Relations Officer Ms. Darshanie Yussuf who handed over the cheque to WDFA Vice President Ms. Christine Smith in the presence of Stag Beer Representative, Lindon
Henry said that the company was happy to be associated with the competition that honours the memory of a former football administrator. ”Ansa McAl is pleased to hand over this cheque to you for this competition that is in honour of someone who made his mark in the football arena as a civilian and a member of the Guyana Police Force. It’s is our role as a corporate citizen to support the development of the game and our young people which we will
continue to do.” Ms. Smith offered the WDFA’s gratitude to Ms. Yussuf and Ansa McAl for stepping in to assist in the time of need. Sunday’s final will see Pouderoyen and Den Amstel clashing for the top prize of $200,000 with half that amount going to the loser. The 3rd place match brings together Uitvlugt Warriors and Eagles wher $50,000 and $25,000 will be at stake. Kick off time is 13:30hrs.
$700,000 up for grabs in Unity Cricket Softball Trophy Stall on board Seven hundred thousand dollars will be up for grabs in the Unity Cricket Softball matches at the Providence Stadium tomorrow in five exciting games from 10:00hrs in the first major softball event to be held at t h e S t a d i u m . The Open 10/10 semi-finals involving Berbice Karibee Rice Boyz, Essequibo, Regals and Wolf Warriors will be played for a first prize of $200,000, runnersup $100,000, third place $50,000 and fourth place $50,000. The winners of the semi-finals will clash in a grand finale at 16:30 hrs. Berbice Masters and their Demerara counterparts will compete for a winner’s prize of $100,000 while the runners-up get $50,000. Berbice Karibee Rice Girls face-off with Demerara Girls with the winner taking home $100,000 and the loser collecting $50,000 in what should be a riveting affair.
Manager of Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich (right) hands over the President’s Trophy to James Bond of 007 Promotions. A fun day for children will also be held on the Tarmac while the feature event pits
the top players in West Indies T20 playing for (Continued on page 32)
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Four to contest 3rd GBTI Inter Secondary Male and Female Tapeball Comp. Four secondary schools will contest the third edition of the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Inter Secondary S c h o o l Ta p e B a l l competition organised by the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC). The contesting schools are based in the Rose Hall Town and Port Mourant areas, the competition will be played as part of the club’s ‘Say No to Drugs, Suicide, Crime and Say Yes to Education and Sports’campaign. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster remarked that the competition would attract male and female teams from the Lower Corentyne, J.C Chandisingh, Corentyne Comprehensive and Port Mourant Secondary Schools. Players must be 17 years and under, born on or after September 1st, 1999. The main aims of the tournament are to promote positive social messages, to promote cricket as a safe alternative to a life on the road and to celebrate Guyana’s 50th Independence anniversary. The RHTYSC would also be using the tournament to identify new talent for the club’s junior
RHTY&SC Organising Secretary Ravin Kissoonlall receives the cheque from Ms. Ramdeo of GBTI.
and female teams. Foster also disclosed that the club during 2016, would be hosting numerous cricket tournaments at the Primary and Secondary levels for Under-15, 17, 19, Second Division and female players as it continues its massive cricket development programme aimed at lifting the standard of the game in Berbice. Foster expressed gratitude to the Management and Staff of GBTI for their continued sponsorship of the tournament while assuring that it would be well organised and achieve all the set objectives. Manager of the GBTI Port Mourant Branch, Mr. Ghoeblall Mahadeo in
remarks said they are pleased to partner with the RHTY&SC once again as it was very impressed with the hosting of the first two tournaments. GBTI, Mahadeo noted is fully aware of its corporate responsibilities and as such special emphasis is placed on education, sports and youth development. Mahadeo congratulated the club for its outstanding work that targets y o u t h s a n d u rg e d t h e organisation to uphold the high standards it has set i tself in the past. The top teams in the tournament would win trophies and other prizes, while the outstanding performers would take home trophies and medals.
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Kaieteur News
First batch of players arrive for Unity Cricket
Friday January 29, 2016
Chess Federation to run off Trophy Stall tourney this weekend After a relatively quiet 2015, the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) will commence the new season this weekend with a seven-round tournament, sponsored by the Trophy Stall. The tournament, which is expected to attract the country’s top players, will be held at the National Resource Centre, located in the compound of the National Racquet Centre, Woolford Avenue. Conducted under the Swiss System, the competition’s first round will take place tomorrow from 13:30hrs followed by two rounds on Sunday, the first of which will commence at 09:30hrs. The remaining four rounds will take place the following weekend. According to the rules, the time limit per player is one hour, 30 minutes. Managing Director of the Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich, said it is his company’s delight to sponsor the first Chess competition of 2016, noting that several trophies will be up for grabs. The Trophy Stall, with branches in Bourda Market, City Mall and South Road in the city has been an avid supporter of the GCF’s programme, and federation President Irshad Mohamed was once again grateful for the partnership with the establishment.
Reyad Emrit, Nicholas Pooran and Lendl Simmons just after they touched down in Guyana yesterday. Ye s t e r d a y L e n d l Simmons, Reyad Emrit and Nicholas Pooran arrived in Guyana at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Ti m e h r i w h i l e A n d r e Fletcher came in at the Ogle International Airport as the first batch of players for tomorrow’s Unity Cricket landed on South American soil. Today the others including Guyanese Narsingh
Deonarine, the two present We s t I n d i e s C a p t a i n s (Darren Sammy & Jason Holder), Dwayne Smith, Suleiman Benn, Dwayne Bravo and Chris Gayle are scheduled arrive at both Airports. It is said that you leave the best for last and at 22:10hrs Chris Gayle is scheduled to land in Guyana on Caribbean Airlines to complete the arrival of the overseas
players. West Indies T20 Captain Sammy will arrive at Ogle at 14:15hrs. S e n s a t i o n a l performances, a party-like atmosphere and a capacity crowd is expected tomorrow night from 19:30hrs when Legacy’s All Stars, led by Ramnaresh Sarwan collide with the Chris Barnwell Captained 007 Warriors at the Providence Stadiums. Tickets cost $3,000.
GCF rep. Wendell Meusa and Trophy Stall’s Sales rep. Marcia Shanks display the trophies.
Ramdhani re-elected GBA President The Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) held it’s Biennial General Meeting on Tuesday 26th of January 2016 at the Guyana Olympic House on High Street, Kingston and National Coach Gokarn Ramdhani was re-elected as President for another two-year term. The President said 2015 was a most successful one compared to the past years
with top player Narayan Ramdhani Ranked 102 at the World Juniors level at the close of 2015. The GBA’s Junior Team is ranked 39th in the World following the conclusion of t h e Wo r l d J u n i o r Championships held in Peru in November 2015. The GUMDAC Open, Trophy Stall Age Group, Guyana Olympic Association Olympic Day Open, Guyana Classic International and the Woodpecker Products Age Group were tournaments run off by the GBA last year. At the International level Guyanese teams attended the Pan American Games in To r o n t o C a n a d a , P a n American Junior Championships in Mexico, Caribbean Regional Badminton Championships in Dominican Republic, Colombian International. Ramdhani explained the Association still faces a lot of difficulties in getting a steady supply of feather shuttlecock which have to be used to train players for international tournaments. These shuttlecocks are very costly as up to ten or more can be used in matches. ”We are working towards getting a supplier but any help that can be given to us will be warmly accepted” Ramdhani disclosed. Ramdhani said the development programme for
Gokarn Ramdhani junior players is affected by after school lessons and this continues to be an ongoing problem which GBA has to try and solve. The GBA thanked the National Sports Commission for allowing them the uses of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. ”Already we see our players training more intense as there are certain exercises that cannot be done on hard floors like the jump smashes and lounges. We can do better if we are given three days in a more organised way so that we can have a continuous programme as we are the only country at the moment that trains three times a week, compared six times a week,” Ramdhani noted. The GBA is also happy that the NSC has included Badminton in the IGG Games. This will help with (Continued on page 32)
Friday January 29, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 43
Milo having positive Guyanese shine at War On The Shore Martial impact on football Arts C/ship in New Jersey development in G/town A section of the crowd that witnessed the opening day of this year’s Milo Under-20 Schools Football Tournament. By Rawle Welch
Team Torres Martial Arts Guyana display their silverware in New Jersey. R e p r e s e n t i n g Te a m Torres Martial Arts Guyana, the quartet of 7 year-old Wayne Toney, Michael Jones, Nicholas Braithwaite and Roland Eudoxie made their country proud at the War On The Shore Martial Arts Championship held at the Tropicana Casino and Resort, Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA on Friday and Saturday last. Debutants Toney and Jones did well while seasoned campaigners, Eudoxie who is the Director and Chief Instructor of the club based at Plantation,
Providence, East Bank Demerara and Braithwaite continued their good showing at the event. Following are the results: KSN Roland Eudoxie - 183 4 B l a c k B e l t 1st Place - Musical Form 2nd Place - Board Breaking 2nd Place - Open Kata Nicholos Braithwaite 18-34 Black Belt 1st Place - Open Kata 2nd Place - Musical Form 3rd Place - Board B r e a k i n g Michael Jones - 18-34 Advanced
1st Place - Musical Form 1st Place - Open Kata 1st Place - Sparing 2nd Place – Weapons Wayne Toney - 7 & Under 3rd Place - Open Kata Team Torres Martial Arts Guyana is expressing gratitude to the following for their support which contributed to the success of the team. Department of Culture Yo u t h a n d S p o r t , U S Embassy, Copa Airlines, Fly Jamaica, Nobel House and Seafoods, Payless Variety Store along with Family and Friends.
In just four short years, the impact that the Milo Under-20 Schools Football Competition is having both in terms of its popularity and the improved development of young aspiring footballers is instantly recognizable from the onset of this year’s edition. When the tournament got started last Saturday at the Ministry of Education ground, the enhanced standard of play combined with the large turnout of fans provided convincing evidence of what a wonderful idea it was for the Petra Organisation to come up with focused primarily on improving the quality of play among young ballweavers from within the Georgetown environs. What was even more encouraging to see was the fact that Nestle Milo through its local supplier Beepat’s was willing to invest substantial sums of money to move the thought of the two principals Troy Mendonca and Marlan Cole to the reality it is today. The Milo tournament annually serves as a precursor to the nationwide and extremely popular Digicel Schools Tournament as it helps to increase the standard of play by the time the latter comes around a few months after the former’s completion.
The initiative is proving that a solid strategic plan supported by the expertise to execute is often persuasive factors to gain corporate backing. Nestle Milo has reported its approval with the manner in which the Organisation has performed and its overall satisfaction with the objective of the tournament and this has to be good news for all those directly related to the sport. It simply means that should there be no glaring negative developments arising in the foreseeable future, the outlook for the tournament’s continuing existence seems bright. There is no doubt that schools have signed on to making the tournament bigger and better and have undertaken to enhance the standard of the annual showpiece. They are preparing much earlier and are hiring coaches as an appendage to their respective in-house teachers who might not have the advanced skills to impart to give their schools the best chance of winning, while the players themselves have wasted no time in honing
their individual skills with clubs, making the spectacle a must see for scouts, coaches etc. It is serving as a boost for the local federation which definitely does not possess the resources to spot all the talent so the Milo in addition to the Digicel is having a positive impact in the sport. It must be noted also, that the involvement of the Education and Public Health Ministries are just as crucial to the tournament’s success and their individual roles should never be seen as trivial. One ensures that the eligibility of the players are in conformity with the tournament regulations, while the other astutely uses the platform which is major in terms of proportion to spread messages about the ills that affect society and more directly the youths. Nestel Milo and Digicel have both responded to the needs of our young footballers and they should be commended for this. Meanwhile, the fixtures for tomorrow and Sunday are seen below where matches are being played at the Ministry of Education ground o n C a r i f e s t a Av e n u e .
t r o Sp
Stag Crown Your Community Promotion kicks off this weekend
GFF President Wayne Forde (3rd left) with Ansa McAL PRO Ms. Dharshanie Yusuf (4th left) with representatives of several clubs at the launching ceremony.
Carona Beer Beach Football to kick off Sunday in Linden
GBFA President Rollin Tappin (left) and GFF President Wayne Forde (2nd right) with players and officials following the launch.
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