Kaieteur News

Wednesday July 19, 2017

The sugar union has misrepresented they would have never workers’ rights since 1992 union allowed Guysuco to take DEAR EDITOR, It seems that the General Secretary and GAWU are upset after reading my last missive in the dailies, whereby I said and will repeat that “GAWU AND PPP DESTROYED SUGAR”. It is the truth but GAWU which is the PPP’s right hand seems not to want anything that deals with the truth esp. knowing they are at fault as a union. Maybe, GAWU and PPP should retake a look at their last rally that was held in Canje, Berbice on Sunday 16th July 2017. It was shocking to them, I know. The turnout was far from what they expected. It was more cars, buses and vans than sugar workers and their families living in that area. The majority of the workers and their families stayed away because they realised that it is PPP and GAWU that cause the industry to go down the drain. GAWU said that they see it fitting to reply to my letter. Well since October 5th, 1992 when the PPP gained power GAWU has fallen asleep until May 15th, 2015. All of a sudden GAWU awakes and wants to tell the workers they have their backs, HELL NO! GAWU only wants to ask questions and put challenges when they are replying to letters. Their leaders must learn to answer questions and take up the challenges if they really care for the workers. I have challenged GAWU in several letters over the past months to “STOP TAKING UNION DUES FOR A YEAR” from workers. But NO, they won’t take up that challenge, because they will not have enough monies to give to their allies for their political work. If GAWU so cares for the welfare of the workers and their families, they will drop all union dues for a year. GAWU just care for the dues from the workers, nothing else. The General Secretary (GS) indicated to the public that maybe I was asleep during GAWU’s failure to represent the rights of workers. Well, Mr. GS and GAWU, I want you and your party (PPP) to tell the workers and Guyanese at large, WHY IS IT THAT AFTER 1992 THE MAY DAY REALLY WAS SHIFTED FROM REGION 5 (Dhanar Square)? This used to be the biggest May Day Rally in Guyana. Workers used to voice their concerns to the leaders of the PPP and GAWU during those rallies. But after 1992, GAWU knew that the majority of sugar workers belong to Berbice and mainly they are Indians

who they assume are hardcore PPP. So there is no need for another rally of such nature for those workers esp. Berbicians during the 23 years. GAWU should tell the public, HOW MANY WORKERS’ CASES THEY WON between 1992-2015? HOW MANY CASES WERE SOLD OUT so that workers lost their entitlement\benefits? GAWU must say, HOW MANY MISSING NIS CONTRIBUTIONS CASES THEY WON during those years? HOW MANY STRIKES THEY CALLED DURING PPP RULE IN OFFICE? HOW MANY DEMANDS THEY MADE FOR THE WORKERS TO HAVE BETTER WORKING CONDITIONS? HOW MANY WORKERS WERE WRONGFULLY DISMISSED BY GUYSUCO under their watch? GAWU knows that workers were easily fooled in the past decades by them and that they will continue to do so with the workers. But, workers have learned over the years and will no longer accept the lies from their unions. GAWU feels that they will continue lying and failing the workers and the workers will accept it. But, no it ain’t happening. GAWU talks about the cut in the price of sugar that caused some hindrances in the industry. I fully agree with that statement, but since then the PPP and GAWU did nothing to safeguard the industry and its workers. All they did was to tell the workers, sugar has a bright future and they are continuing to do so, although the EU says we will stop giving you monies for an industry that is going down. GAWU knows that the industry will one day go down the drain and instead of using the union dues to educate the workers, they seem to use it for political purposes. If GAWU was a responsible

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sugar from Blairmont Estate and package it in Demerara and called it Demerara Gold. Blairmont sugar workers toiled their skin out just to know that their product is being used to pamper an International brand for another estate. GAWU could have stand up for the said Demerara Gold packaging plant on the East Coast of Demerara to be in Blairmont, Berbice and ask Guysuco to brand the said sugar, after the Berbice name. But, GAWU feels we are stupid. They knew that the East Coast Demerara Estates had to be closed if the Industry was to have a future. So, they can’t afford to lose the workers on the East Coast, so they agreed with PPP and Guysuco to have the packaging facility on the East Coast. GAWU failed the sugar workers tremendously over the years. GAWU for 23 years did not fully represent workers. When\where did GAWU hold a rally for workers rights during those years? GAWU sits with PPP in Parliament and yet failed workers for 23 years. Today, this PPP and GAWU want workers to believe that they care. None of them cared for sugar workers and their families. I once again throw out the challenges that were in my last missive to both GAWU and PPP. Let the world see if you care and mean what you say that you care. I challenge PPP to have their MPs giving up all their parliamentary salaries from July to December 2017 toward Continued on page 6

Integrity Commission should investigate City Hall officials DEAR EDITOR, It was extremely encouraging to learn that the President of Guyana is expected to unveil a new Integrity Commission soon, now that nominees have been identified and submitted by the Prime Minister. One can only hope that the 10 Principles of Public Life – accountability, dignity, diligence, duty, honour, integrity, loyalty, objectivity, responsibility and transparency – and the order to address issues of bribes, discrimination, gifts, conflict of interest, use of official influence, handling of classified information, use of public property, sexual misconduct and entertainment will be applied especially to the senior Municipal officials at the Georgetown Municipality. These senior officers of the Council and the Mayor and Councillors should be made to declare their assets and incomes, and their

conduct monitored to ensure that they do not benefit from disproportionate wealth, or gain personal advantage and advancement from their offices. Those who have moved from bankruptcy, the seizure of their car and attempted foreclosure of their home just a little over two years ago to now being in possession of immense wealth and considerable assets including multiple homes and vehicles should be made to explain from where and how this rapid and enormous fortune has been accumulated. Indeed I believe that if we are to save our capital, then the first order of business for the new Integrity Commission after they are set up should be to focus on the Georgetown Municipality that is haemorrhaging badly because of a few unscrupulous officers. Sambu Jacobus

The Town Clerk must be compelled to take his long overdue leave DEAR EDITOR, There is an old Guyanese proverb that says: “All cassava get same skin but all nah taste same way.” The Minister of State within the Ministry of the Presidency had indicated sometime ago that the administration had a zero tolerance approach on public officers refusing to take their annual leave and instead opting for payments. However, it seems as though the Minister of Communities did not get this memo as he continues to allow the Town Clerk of Georgetown to postpone indefinitely the decision to proceed on his annual leave since taking up the position more than two years now. The fact that this officer has refused to take his annual leave whilst others are made to take theirs should raise a

red flag. The fact that this officer travels in short spurts abroad, leaving a few trusted and loyal cohorts to keep the show on the road whilst he is gone, but who nonetheless directs operations from his roaming cellular telephone, should make them suspicious. What makes this public servant so indispensible that he is prevented from taking

his vacation leave whilst other public officials carrying out far more important functions are made to take their leave? Clearly this officer could not ignore the regulations with such impunity without the encouragement and fiat of some one or more of his functional superiors encouraging it. Mark Roopan

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Police double standard on noise nuisance

DEAR EDITOR, Residents of Triumph Front Lands (north of the Public Road) must have suffered from the worst system failure last weekend (14-16 July), caused by the National Drainage & Irrigation Agency and the Guyana Police Force. Located immediately behind the Region 4 Administration building, the usual flooding once again inundated the area for the umpteenth time. However, this weekend was special; we had the added sweetener of the NDIA Triumph drainage pump deciding not to perform its duties (never mind this area is regarded as the main basin on the East Coast), thereby allowing the water to stay on land to further fertilize the soil. Not to be outdone, residents again had the opportunity to use their long boots to wade through the waste (not garbage) infested water, have their cars parked on higher land for a change, breathe some rare putrid air, among a number of other benefits. Never mind the Regional 4 housing compound is found within this little community, and

where the Region 4 Chairperson, the Regional Engineer and other regional officials reside. But, we remain a small and insignificant group of villagers who will continue to find very creative ways of protesting. Did someone suggest a town is in the making here, we will be waiting for you! Not to be outdone, the Guyana Police Force was the next top performer, although we are acutely aware of the prison crisis response on the East Coast. A ‘wedding house’ in the neighbouring village, colloquially called Django Town (Mon Repos North), began playing extremely loud music from Saturday evening. This village is located contiguously east of Triumph Front Lands and with the easterly winds, we are at the mercy of this excessively loud music. Sunday, the music sprung up earlier, at about 2:00pm. It was so loud it rattled windows, set off car alarms, and blew our ear drums (coupled with the usual flooding). Old folks were discomforted, babies cried, and adults could not rest, read a book, let alone

watch television. But it did not end there. Calls beginning at 3:30pm were made to the BV police station to report this noise nuisance, literally a stone’s throw away from Triumph North, and also in the direct pathway of the music. Naturally the police promptly replied; “you know we have this situation at Lusignan prison”. I accepted, but indicated since the police are traversing from BV to Lusignan and would pass Django Town on the way, it cannot be that hard to drop in for 5 minutes to give a first warning. Nothing happened of course since loud music is something the police have always been complicit about especially with residents of Django Town. And this is despite only two weeks ago the Minister of Public Security was on TV agreeing with senior police officers on the programme that noise nuisance will see more punitive action. Not to be outdone, neighbours called me to complain, and also called the police. An hour later I called Cove n John Police Station, C Division, which issues the

Government picking selected persons for foreign paid jobs DEAR EDITOR, A colleague disclosed to me that there was collusion in the procurement of staff for projects and the matter was reported to the local IDB and the Office of Institutional Integrity (OII) in Washington. The person asked me to send this information because she/ he does not have a personal computer and prefers to remain anonymous. Your investigative journalists may wish to investigate this given your recent reports on the project. Apparently, the project staff according to the ToR must have Masters Degrees plus years of experience in project management, monitoring and evaluation etc. Salaries are around USD$2200 a month. The persons short listed for the interviews were cherry picked.

According to this person, the persons from the government who conducted the interviews and evaluated the applicants are unqualified to do so because they have ONLY a first degree and no specialized training or experience in project management , and monitoring and evaluation etc. In other words, they are less qualified than the applicants. And more importantly are untrained in conducting high level interviews. For example, my colleague tells me that the persons on the panel of interviewers only has a first degree. What is most disturbing about all this is that at the

interviews there is no representative of the IDB to provide oversight of the process. The IDB only gets the outcome of the process. The interviewers just arbitrarily assign points to a candidate, based on some unknown criteria. If the process is vitiated, then the outcome of that process would be wrong. The person believes that the APNU/AFC is guilty of the same thing they have accused the PPP/C of doing. I trust you will handle this matter with your usual discretion and confidentiality and do not disclose your sources. C o n c e r n e d whistleblower

Justice for Maurice Arjoon at last DEAR EDITOR, The favorable ruling by Justice Brassington Reynolds in the wrongful dismissal case of former CEO of NBS, Maurice Arjoon, demonstrates that fair justice is alive and well in Guyana. Delayed though it was justice was not denied. Mr. Arjoon has been vindicated just like he said he would be. It is unfortunate he could not be present in court to hear the ruling and to savour the victory of the moment. The ruthless ripping apart of an innocent, decent and honourable person is unforgivable. It is hoped Mr. Arjoon and family can now begin to put the dark days and years behind them as they continue to seek to rebuild their lives. My best wishes to them as we take the many lessons of their amazing courage, strength and fortitude. Shamshun Mohamed

loud music licence, to complain. The constable reflexively said “if they have a permit they got until midnight!” So I asked if they have a right to play at any decibel level, she would not respond. But, she promptly said I should complain to the Station Sergeant at BV. Without much hope, I called back BV station, but the sergeant was surprisingly out. Another constable which answered this time relayed the same explanation about the music permit. I told her I asked a friend of mine in the neighbouring village to ask

the wedding house to tone down the music, but that did not help. She suggested I go talk to them again, as I apparently suddenly became a law enforcement officer! Saddened by continuous duty dereliction and abject failure of the Police stationed at BV, and poor loud music licensing system at Cove N John. What more can be said about loud music in Guyana, that has not been reported in the past! I wrote this letter at 8:30 pm, and the music at that time was at full throttle, DJ Bravo Champion song filling the air.

We prepared for further blasts on Monday evening (Khangan night) and Tuesday evening (advanced second Sunday), residents of Triumph North, the Regionally housed staff of Region 4, and the BV police will be endured further abuse from this music, all the while walking around muddy, and contaminated yards. What a travesty! Thank God for the sun’s evaporation and lack of rainfall over the weekend. And I did not even mention the state of the road!! What can be done! Fed up citizen

Negligence and incompetence abound in this country DEAR EDITOR, Dr. Richard Van West Charles and I have a fond acquaintance. Many thought he would have run for high office after the death of his late father-in-law and first Executive President Linden F.S. Burnham. But Dr. Richard is a noble gentleman who has no illusions about Guyana’s political realities. Notwithstanding his reservations, Dr. Richard’s capability was recognized by the incumbent administration and he was appointed Head of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI). I believe he is trying to do his best with what he inherited. Parts of that inheritance are incompetence and mismanagement. I usually pay the water bill for an aged relative. The GWI account number is 1013389. In June I paid $6,050. An amount of $6,048 was stated on the bill as the total due for June. It was later acknowledged by GWI staff that the bill was an estimated one and that the actual charge should have been for $4,048. GWI did not offer a refund, but said the overpayment of $2,002 would be rolled over to the July bill. The July bill came, with a current charge for $971. It therefore means that an overpayment difference of $1,031should have been reflected. Amazingly, the July bill reflects an overpayment of a mere $2. Only God knows where the remaining $1,029 went. I intend to query the July bill. That means I have to take time off again from my job to help somebody do their job of simple math. Maybe something is wrong with the computer program too. My visit to query the obvious discrepancy will cost me downtime and transportation, since these types of queries invariably get nowhere over the phone. While a thousand dollars is

lunch money for many, it can purchase a few days vegetables for most households. Imagine someone who lives out of central Georgetown having to deal with a matter like this. Someone who wasn’t fortunate to go very far in school; someone who lacks the ability to do simple addition and subtraction would be at the mercy of institutionalised malpractices and error. They would lose their money, right before their eyes. Many Guyanese have woeful tales of discrepancies and overbilling by utility companies. Estimated charges are the hallmark. Even more frustrating, in many instances, is the hoodwinking one receives as imposed panacea or deflection from the rip-offs by these utilities. Their defence teams are led by lofty clerks, some of whom simply go to work to clock hours or post selfies on Facebook and Instagram. Most of my compositions highlight indiscreet realities faced by Guyanese, especially common folk. Negligence or incompetence leading to the aforementioned discrepancy when multiplied institutionally causes thousands of people to feel frustrated, disillusioned and often ends up with central government bearing the brunt of blame. Sometimes too,

people like me have to bear the brunt of frustrations others feel because of failing systems or practices. The level of mistakes and incompetence experienced locally is completely unacceptable. It is unacceptable for utilities to be making fundamental errors particularly when there is generally no easy compensatory mechanism for the associated inconvenience and costs they create for the average consumer outside of the Public Utilities Commission or Court. Consumer advocacy is virtually dead. I have carefully attempted to make a clear distinction between the GWI Head and the Billing department. I will not be presumptuous to blame him for the obvious misrepresentation of his efforts. During the era of Dr. Richard Van West Charles’ father-in-law’s reign, repeated issues like these would have led to someone being fired or demoted. However, Burnham was labeled a dictatorial tyrant for his firm stance against the type of incompetence that now overshadows Guyana.I keep hearing whispers in various circles about “if it was in Burnham days”. But as the old adage goes, you never miss the water ‘till the well runs dry! Orette Cutting

The sugar union has...

From page 5 the sugar workers. I challenge GAWU to announce that they will not be collecting union dues from workers during July 2017 to July 2018. Let’s see if the PPP and its partner GAWU care about the welfare of the workers and their families. I must also let GAWU and its GS know that all of my letters are fully put together by yours truly. I don’t have to ask anyone to write or send letters to the editor or have my letters vetted by anyone or party. Unlike some who have to send their letters to Freedom House before they can send it to the dailies or who just put their names to letters written by some dictator. I will continue to write my letters. Abel Seetaram APNU+AFC Regional Councillor, Region 5

Wednesday July 19, 2017

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Guyana’s judiciary unprepared for legal issues from oil and gas sector By Kiana Wilburg Several legal experts are of the opinion that Guyana’s judicial system is currently not prepared for the complex legal issues that may arise from the looming multi-billion dollar oil and gas sector. Specifically making this statement to Kaieteur News yesterday was attorney-atlaw, Sanjeev Datadin. Datadin, who has worked with several international oil and gas companies, holds the view that Guyana’s judicial system is simply too slow, understaffed and lacks individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills. In the case of legal issues to arise from the oil and gas sector, Datadin predicts that most companies will opt for arbitration. He opined that there will be arbitration centres just as there are in Trinidad. The attorney-at-law believes that major companies which come into Guyana are going to be distrustful of the judicial system given the perceptions of how long cases take to be heard, how easily records get lost, personalities involved, among other discouraging perceptions. Datadin said that the arbitration process would have to go up parallel to the court system since this is how it is usu-

- Lawyer

Attorney-at-Law, Sanjeev Datadin ally done. “It usually would come through the business sector; the chamber of commerce and similar things would establish arbitration tribunals and panels and then you would need a list of arbitrators.” Datadin continued, “The difficulty that we might have immediately is that we might not have judges who would be able to deal with specialized engineering or other (oil and gas) issues. And in those cases, they are rather unsuitable for a court. They are better suited for arbitration.” “But we are going to have enormous pressure regarding delays; we are going to have major investors who are spending money daily on rigs and similar things who will

have to wait for so long for hearings and judgments and then for written reasons from judges. “As a result of that, people are going to opt out of the strict legal system and go for arbitration. It will be a one and done…” The attorney asserted that Guyana’s judiciary is simply not equipped to deal with real commercial activity. He said that what Guyanese have on their hands is a court system that has at its foundation, delays and unenforceability. “But as it is, Guyana’s judiciary is just unprepared…We are unprepared because we just don’t understand how to get cases out quickly. In other territories, like in the Eastern Caribbean, commercial cases probably take six months to finish. In Guyana, it takes way too long,” expressed Datadin. The question of the preparedness of the judiciary has been raised in recent times, especially when some critics take into consideration, the track record of US oil giant, ExxonMobil, and the wave of litigation it has faced over the years. In the case of Chad, ExxonMobil was fined US$74

billion as it was ruled in the courts that the nation was underpaid the royalties t which it was entitled from the oil giant. Research indicates that the fine itself is about five times more than Chad’s Gross Domestic Product, which the World Bank estimates at US$13 billion. The fine imposed against the company was handed down October 5, last, by the High Court in the capital, N’Djamena. The ruling was in reaction to a protest from the Finance Ministry in Chad that a group led by the ExxonMobil giant did not honour its tax commitments. According to www.bloomberg.com, the court also demanded that the Texas-based oil explorer pay US$819 million in overdue royalties. Legal minds believe that Chad would not see most of the money as ordered by the court.

ExxonMobil has since said that it disagreed with the Chadian court’s ruling. At the time of the judgment, it was examining other options. Furthermore, in 2003, ExxonMobil was found to be defrauding the state of Alabama out of royalty payments and was ordered by the courts to pay up more than US$100 million in back-pay royalties. According to www.classaction.org., in August 2012, a Kansas judge approved a US$54 million settlement with landowners who claimed they were underpaid

royalties when ExxonMobil made deductions for expenses that occurred downstream of their wells. The settlement also ended a lawsuit filed in Kansas state court against ExxonMobil over royalties dating back to 2000. Given ExxonMobil’s history in the foregoing cases, critics believe that it would not be impractical for Guyanese to question whether the state is preparing the legal framework to deal with the worst to come with the oil and gas superpower.

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Lamaha Springs murder….

Man freed of killing lover’s estranged husband Aniki Jones stared in disbelief even after it was announced that he was freed of a murder charge, yesterday. Jones had been on trial at the Georgetown High Court for the murder of his g i r l f r i e n d ’s estranged husband. Jones, whose last

known address was listed as Lamaha Springs, Georgetown, was accused of murdering Carl Garnett on December 15, 2013. Initial reports suggested that Garnett was armed with a cutlass and went to the home of the accused in Lamaha Springs and dealt him several

chops. Garnett would have called Jones’s home to speak with the child that he shared with his estranged wife. However, following a disagreement over the phone, Garnett is said to have armed himself with a cutlass and confronted

Jones at his home. A fight ensued between the two and left both parties injured. The two men were then taken into the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where Garnett, a 42year-old father of four from Sophia, Greater Georgetown, succumbed as a result of the injuries received. Jones underwent a trial at the Georgetown High Court before Justice Nareshwar Harnanan and a mixed 12member jury. A no case submission presented by Jones’s Attorney, Mark Conway, was upheld by the Court. Jones was stunned. In fact, Jones sat in the prisoner’s dock even after he was told by the Judge that he was free to go. Justice Harnanan had directed the jury to formally return a verdict of not guilty in relation to the murder charge. During the trial, Detective Superintendent of Police, Joel David detailed a statement to the court, which he said Jones gave to the police. Detective David was called to the stand by State Prosecutors Shawnette Austin, Siand Dhurjon and Lisa Case. According to the statement, which Officer David read to the court, the accused admitted that he was

DEAD: Carl Garnett

FREED: Aniki Jones

engaged in an altercation with Garnett before the man’s death. In his caution statement, the accused told police that he was in a relationship with a woman who had left her husband. The statement outlined that Jones believed that the woman’s husband was not pleased that she was with him. However, they lived as husband and wife. On the day of incident, Jones told the police that he overheard a conversation between Rhonda and her husband — it sounded as though they were having an argument. Approximately 10 minutes later, Jones said that Garnett walked into his house armed with a cutlass and an altercation ensued between them. According to the statement, Jones told investigators that he was very sorry for what happened to Garnett as a result of the

altercation. “Ah sorry bad, I wish he bin live,” the accused concluded his statement by saying. Additionally, in her evidence, the victim’s daughter, Ameena Garnett had recalled she helped her mother separate her father and Jones who were engaged in a fight. After she pulled them apart, Garnett said that she noticed that Jones was bleeding. She admitted that she took a cutlass from her father and threw it through a window. Garnett told the court too that she did not see any injuries on her father but that he was unconscious. The men were eventually taken away by the police and she later saw them at the hospital—— her father remained unconscious but Jones had on bandages. The witness reported that her father eventually passed away.

Wednesday July 19, 2017

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CIVILITY AND ORDER Two recent courts decisions have resurrected hope for our nation. The courts have been victims of a public smear campaign by those who want certain outcome and when the courts do not deliver these outcomes, it has been suggested that members of the judiciary are partisan. The substance of the decisions is immaterial. The decisions, as all decisions, will not find favor with everyone. Already we are seeing both of the main political parties jockeying to establish that one of the court decisions was in their favour. That particular case involves the interpretation of the provision of the Constitution which deals with the appointment of the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). The court in not avoiding

interpreting the Constitution has ensured that its guardianship over the highest law of the land remains untrammelled. The court did not dodge the issue of its right as a guardian of the Constitution. It made an unambiguous ruling. The court reaffirmed its right to interpret the constitution, free from any form of pressure. Not everyone will agree with its interpretation but the court has not been timid in advancing an interpretation. One of the parties to that case has indicated a disagreement with a section, not the totality of the ruling, and has said that an appeal will be filed. This is how differences have to be settled in a democratic society. The court must be the place where such differences have to be settled. To those who have

differences with a ruling or with the aspects of a ruling, there is resort to a higher court. Decisions of a lower court can be appealed at a higher court. Decisions of the Guyana Court of Appeal can be appealed through resort to the Caribbean Court of Justice. This makes useless all the talk about biased rulings by judges. Local judicial officials know that their decisions are not final, that it can overturned by higher local courts or by the Caribbean Court of Justice. Judges will therefore not find any comfort in making a biased ruling because they will face the humiliation of being overturned by the CCJ. All these years, the reputation of some of Guyana’s leading jurists was smeared. They were accused of all manner of biases,

DEM BOYS SEH...

Soulja Bai hiring dumb asses Nuff dumb asses deh in public life. Dem deh in some schools but dem deh nuff in parliament. Soulja Bai was going fishing fuh he birthday. Before he go he call de weather man to mek sure that dem will have no rain. De weather man assure him that there was no chance of rain. Soulja Bai pack he cap and he lunch basket and tell Sandra Gyal, “Let’s go.” On de way to de Blacka, he meet a man riding a donkey wid a fishing pole in he hand. He ask de man if fish biting. De man tell him “Boss Man you got to tun back and go back home because a huge rainstorm coming.” Soulja Bai tell de man, “No man. Me weather man highly educated and is an experienced professional. Besides I does pay him big money. He give me a very different forecast and I trust him.” So Soulja Bai suck he teeth and continue on his way. In a short distance de rain buss and soak he and Sandra good and proppa. He get vex. He puff up he jaw and tell Li’l Joe to fire de weather man immediately. Then he send fuh de man who he meet pun de donkey and offer him de weather man

position. This was a honest man. He was not like Labba Lip and Basil de Willie. He ain’t tekking wuk wha he don’t know. Suh he tell Soulja Bai he don’t know nutten bout forecasting and that he does get all the weather report from he donkey. “If yuh see me donkey ears dropping, fuh certain it gun rain.” Suh Soulja Bai send fuh de donkey. And to this day he hiring dumb asses to wuk in influential positions in govt. Is dem same dumb asses silent bout everything dealing wid ExxonMobil. De opposition got its share and dem and all silent. De economy is bad, de country is going downhill; it not producing anything and it importing everything. De li’l gold, diamond, lumber, li’l rice and de bauxite keeping de country nose above water. De whole country hear we got oil. That can give people a better life; it can lift dem heads out de water but de dumb asses really dumb. Dem not talking at all. Dem boys believe de only reason all of dem silent is because dem pocket full already. Talk half and watch de dumb asses.

including biased decisions. Yet, all of their decisions are liable to be subject to higher review. So why would they risk their reputations just in order to give biased decisions. We now have an interpretation of the provisions of the Constitution which deal with the appointment of the Chairperson. That decision is subject to challenge and had been challenged. This is healthy for democratic governance. It will be healthier if court cases can be determined with greater speed so that long festering

disputes will be a thing of the past. In the second case, an individual has had to wait a long time for a ruling. He has a ruling in his favour. But this ruling, like others, is also likely to be challenged. That decision has serious implications for labour laws in the Caribbean and it will be useful to see the outcome of any appeal. The Court of Appeal and the CCJ are likely to hear appeals and counter appeals in this matter. The rule of law not only means that everyone should be subject to the law. It also

implies that people will respect rulings of the court until such time as these are overturned by higher courts. In the meantime, the debate will go on about the nature of rulings. As long as these do not bring the judiciary into disrepute and as long as rulings are not disregarded, hope will exist that order and civility will prevail.

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN...

Abnormal life as usual in Guyana

Every morning I take my dog to walk on the Turkeyen seawall parallel to the UG Access Road. I take an unusual route to get there. Instead of using UG Road and parking by the Beharry Residence at the junction and cross over the highway to get to the seawall, I travel west on the Railway Embankment. I turn north into Conversation Tree then turn east onto the highway. The reason for this longer route is because if I take the UG Road and park by Beharry’s, I would have to

walk across that dangerous highway with my dog. I am not prepared to take that chance. On Monday morning, the traffic cop was there as usual at Conversation Tree Road, regulating traffic. When it was our turn to cross over, the rank as usual had his hand out stopping west bound traffic on the highway. A mini-bus driver ignored the hand signal and drove through. I was about to cross over so I was in his line of rampage. The policeman looked on in consternation. I was in

shock. There and then, I thought the cop would take out his pen and book and jot down the license plate. He did not and he did not use his communication device. As I crossed over, I looked carefully at his body; he wasn’t wearing a communication set. I am no police expert but in the modern world aren’t cops who do traffic and street patrols fitted out with communication sets? I would think that is commonsense. Suppose that bus that ignored the policeman on Monday was carrying the escapees and that is why it went through, wouldn’t the communication have resulted in its interception? Suppose a robbery takes place and the

vehicle has to ignore the hand signal of a rank regulating the traffic, is it not standard procedure for the rank to communicate what he saw to central command that would then do the necessary alert? The more you live in this country the larger the nihilistic picture gets. Hours after that incident, I left home to reach the house of Gerhard Ramsaroop to join the funeral procession for the cremation of his wife at Ruimzeigt, West Coast Demerara. I reached Gerhard’s Alexander Village home at 11.55 am. I reached the cremation site at 1.18 pm not because the car broke down, not because the police cordoned off the area looking for the escapees, not because the aftermath of an earthquake destroyed Mandela Avenue that leads into the East Bank highway but because of bad traffic regulation. On Mandela Avenue, I saw about twenty humongous container trucks that helped to slow down the traffic. Here is where class politics and destructive governance come in. Every day in this country, I wonder how sane, living human

beings could accept the current leadership of the PPP. It was under the presidency of Bharrat Jagdeo that sandtrucks coming into Georgetown were banned after 7 am. The reason was traffic chaos they can cause when caught in both morning rush on the East Bank and in the city especially on Lombard Street. But container- trucks create the same nightmares. I saw that on Monday on my way to the cremation. So why the time restriction on sand-trucks and not container-trucks? Generally, sand-truck owners operate as individuals. I know about four such owners. They generally fall into the category of working class people. Container-trucks are symptomatic of the power of money in Guyana. Multibillion-dollar companies own those trucks. And money talks loudly and graphically in Guyana. In the most capitalistic countries in the world those container-trucks would not be allowed to be part of the morning down town traffic rush. They would be regulated. The famous Royston King said, about a

Frederick Kissoon year ago, that City Hall plans to regulate the hours of these vehicles on the road. Ask me if I believe that. Ask me why I think that policy would never be implemented. When I reached in the vicinity of Crane/Vreed-enHoop, there were more traffic woes because the road there is being widened and the civilian workers are not trained to regulate traffic and where to place the cones. Drivers had to follow the line of cones but at a certain section, the cones went out of order and I almost came head on with a minibus going in the opposite direction. When I reached the cremation site, Michelle Ramsaroop’s pyre was about to be lit. My deepest condolences to Gerhard Ramsaroop, whose father, Boyo, was partly responsible for me escaping “nowhereland” in Wortmanville.

Wednesday July 19, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Bamia to get new nursery, primary school During the opening of tenders yesterday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), tenders were open for the construction of a new nursery and primary school at Bamia, Region Ten (Upper Demerara/ Upper Berbice). The Procuring entity is the Regional Democratic Council for that region. Construction of Bamia Nursery School:

- Bids in for Ministry of Finance Annex Building Construction of slipway and approach:

Tenders were open for the supply and delivery of boulders for river and sea defense works within Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara).

The Hinterland Electrification Company Incorporated (HECI) of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure is the procuring entity for the construction of a new office building at Lethem. Construction of Bamia Primary School:

The RDC is the procuring entity for the construction of a Regional Administrative Building, Phase One:

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) was listed as the procuring entity for the supply and delivery of computer items.

Tenders were open for the construction of facilities for the Orealla Radio Station, Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne). The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) is the procuring entity.

The Finance Ministry is the procuring entity for the construction of an annex building at 77 Croal Street and Winter Place, Stabroek Georgetown. Procurement of security services Bids were also submitted for the procurement of security services for several RDCs. Region One (Barima/Waini):

Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice):

>>>>> Continued on page 28 <<<<< The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) was listed as the procuring entity for two contracts. The Procurement of flags:

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Kaieteur News

Central Bank reports increased public spending As it moves to strengthen its internal systems, the Central Bank continues to place emphasis on ensuring that its monetary policy focuses on the attainment of price stability as well as the provision of an adequate level of liquidity for credit expansion. This is all in an effort to promote economic growth. According to Bank of Guyana, it seeks to allow the expansion of broad money (money in any form including bank or other deposits as well as notes and coins) along a path

that is consistent with projections for output and inflation. Thus, weekly targets for broad money are translated into targets for base money. Base money refers to the total amount of currency that is either circulated in the hands of the public or in the commercial bank deposits held in the Central Bank’s reserves. To achieve these weekly base money targets, the Bank focuses on the effective management of excess liquidity in the financial system through its Open

…Bank reserves increase Market Operations (OMOs). The Bank may also purchase and sell foreign currency to achieve its primary objective. According to the bank, during its review period for the second quarter, reserve money increased by $10.4 B compared with an increase of $6.5B for the corresponding period in 2016. The Bank said that there were nine issues of Treasury bills amounting to $31.1B while redemptions

amounted to $31B. It was noted that Treasury bills were issued when reserve money exceeded the targeted levels and was deemed likely to adversely affect the economy. Additionally, the Bank sold US$7.2 million to the commercial banks while there were no purchases during the second quarter. Inter-bank market activities, which also provide an indication of the total liquidity condition of the financial system, had three trades during the review period. There were no funds traded on the market for the period under review when compared with the $2.2 billion

for the corresponding period in 2016. Significantly, it was noted that the overall financial position of the public sector deteriorated from a surplus to a deficit due to higher current and capital expenditures which were relatively higher than increase in revenues. Additionally, Central Government’s fiscal position shifted from a surplus of $545 million to a deficit of $917 million. This outturn resulted from higher current and capital expenditures by $6.1B and $4.6B to $38.5B and $7.2 B, respectively. Total current revenues also expanded by 9.0 percent or some $38B. The growth in current revenues was attributed to greater receipts from Customs and Trade Administration and the Internal Revenue Department which expanded by $4.5B and $1.3B respectively. Excise tax and Value Added tax were also higher by $2.4B and $1.013B taking them to $7.3B and $9.4B respectively. Personal and corporation income taxes grew by 7.5 percent and 4.4 percent to

$5.8B and $8.2B respectively. Total current expenditures expanded by 18.9 percent or $6.1B due to greater transfer payments of $2.2B and employment cost of $1.6B. Central Bank noted that the expansion in employment cost was attributed to the growth in public sector employment along with the increase in wages and salaries. Furthermore, it was noted that the Non-Financial Public Enterprises’ overall balance recorded a deficit of $1.0B compared to a surplus of some $6B during the second quarter of 2017. Central Bank said that this was due to higher capital and current expenditures and lower current revenues. The Bank noted that capital expenditures expanded for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) and Guyana Power and Light (GPL) by $529 million and $521 million respectively. The National Insurance Scheme’s overall balance shifted to a surplus of $152 million from a deficit of $67 million in 2016, reflecting a 12.5 percent expansion in contributions of the employed and the selfemployed.

Wednesday July 19, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Community Mental Health Care -- A key focus of Public Health The public health sector has been making considerable strides to expand its services. Included in this movement is a plan to ensure that mental health services are offered countrywide. Speaking of moves in this regard was Director of the Ministry of Public Health’s Mental Health Unit, Dr. Util RichmondThomas. According to Dr. Richmond-Thomas, on Monday, the Public Health Ministry has been steadfastly fast-tracking its efforts to have in place community mental health care, countrywide. This strategic move, she explained, is designed to help reduce t h e b u r d e n o n institutions such as the National Psychiatric Hospital and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. The latter institution has in place a specialised psychiatric unit. Reducing the burden on these institutions, Dr. Richmond-Thomas said, will essentially be realised by the placement of doctors trained to handle mental health cases at all regional health facilities. “These doctors will be able to detect problems early and take care of those problems...” said Dr.

– Mental Health Director Richmond-Thomas as she noted that once the problems are recognised and dealt with at an early stage patients are not likely to reach to a place where they have to be institutionalised. But even though the intent is to have a mental health service with a national reach, Dr. Richmond-Thomas said that keen efforts have been made to ensure that areas such as Regions Six, Three and Two are well staffed. This may be in light of the fact that these Regions, particularly Six and Two, have been high on the Ministry’s suicide prevention radar. Dr. Richmond-Thomas was asked whether even more focus will be placed on the sugar production Regions [Six and Four] in light of moves by Government to scale down the production of sugar thus rendering some persons unemployed and possibly vulnerable to depression. But the measures already in place should suffice. According to the Mental Health Unit Director, in Region Six, for instance, 14 doctors have been trained

and are stationed at health centres throughout the Region. “They are there to screen and make sure that persons who come in with [signs] of mental health illnesses can be taken care of very early...their depression will be taken care of and coping skills will be taught,” Dr. RichmondThomas assured. A similar situation obtains in Region Three, she added. Already, she disclosed, as many as 25 doctors have been trained in Region Three and “these doctors are working in primary health care. Even though Region Three doesn’t have a psychiatrist, they are trained to deal with depression, psychosis, with anxiety and so on. So persons can go to any one of the 23 health centres where these doctors are and be adequately attended to.” While Region Six and Three are very capable to efficiently manage any potential mental health case, Dr. Richmond-Thomas said that moves will shortly be made to also commence training of doctors in Region Two even as efforts in this regard are further expanded.

Dr. Util RichmondThomas She, however, noted that while mental health specialists are needed at the country’s main referral hospital – GPHC— expanding the service there

is not currently a priority since the GPHC Psychiatric Department has been effectively catering to this need. “At the GPHC when someone comes in [to the Accident and Emergency Unit] with an issue [mental health problem] the [attending doctors] will call the psychiatric resident on call. Of course it would be better to have the doctors at the Accident and Emergency trained but there is that specialised unit and therefore it is not so urgent right now,” Dr. Richmond-Thomas emphasised. Meanwhile, at the regional facilities she noted, “as patients come in, the doctors who are trained will be able to recognise mental health problems...the patients may not even know that they have

a condition but the doctor will detect it and manage it properly.” H o w e v e r, M i n i s t e r within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, has noted that while the Public Health Ministry has been moving full speed ahead with its agenda to expand the delivery of mental health services, the Ministry cannot work in isolation. “This cannot be done by Public Health alone; it has to be a multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary approach. We have to work with Social Protection, we have to work with Public Security and so forth, and we hope that with this kind of approach we will be able to achieve that and look at the social determinants of health,” said Dr. Cummings.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday July 19, 2017

Media have role to play in quest to control tobacco use Guyana’s seriousness about tackling the scourge of tobacco use must be supported by continuous surveillance. This notion was yesterday amplified by Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Public Health, Mr. Terrence Esseboom. Esseboom was at the time addressing a forum designed to sensitise media operatives to the Tobacco Control Act. The sensitization session, which represents collaboration between the Ministry of Public Health and the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation, came a few weeks after the first reading of the Tobacco Control Bill in the National Assembly last month. The Bill is one that seeks the implementation of tobacco control policies in accordance with the World Health Organisation/ Framework Convention on Tobacco Control [WHO/ FCTC]. Guyana acceded to the WHO/FCTC on September 2005. With Tobacco Control legislation in place, the Public Health Ministry hopes to have the wherewithal to protect present and future generations from diseases and addictions caused by

tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke. Moreover, it will serve to prevent exposure of the public, especially minors to tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship while enhancing public awareness of the hazards of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke. But Guyana cannot only be reliant on surveillance to strengthen Tobacco Control legislation. “It must maintain a ban on advertising,” even as efforts are made to “impose hefty taxation on the industry.” According to Esseboom, the latter measure has been shown universally to discourage tobacco use. “It must be visionary to plug all the loopholes that industry operatives will use as counter-measures and this includes smuggling,” the Public Health Ministry stressed yesterday. To achieve the mandate of tobacco control, Esseboom amplified the need for Guyana to utilise the WHO’s six MPOWER measures. The measures are Monitor tobacco use and prevention policies; Protect people from tobacco use; Offer help to quit tobacco use; Warn about the dangers

Mr. Terrence Esseboom, Public Relations Officer, Public Health Ministry

Ms. Kesaundra Alves, Public Health Lawyer

Dr. Kavita Singh, Coordinator, Chronic Diseases Unit, Public Health Ministry

of tobacco; Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship and Raise taxes on tobacco. But the support of the media cannot be underestimated. Esseboom said that both the Public Health Ministry and PAHO/ WHO “want you the media to help us fight smoking with your pens. We want you to help us convince the world that the ‘pen is mightier than the smoke’.” According to Esseboom, in the anti-tobacco fight, media messages must be short, clear and well studied. “We want you to ensure

that your well-studied messages are emotionally stimulating without being sensational.” Also speaking at yesterday’s forum was Chairman of the Georgetown Public Hospital, Ms. Kesaundra Alves. Alves, speaking in the capacity of a qualified Public Health Lawyer, underscored that the tobacco epidemic is one that is not merely spread by infection but by promotion and advertisement. In her presentation yesterday she too emphasised the need for a ‘Ban on Tobacco

Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship’ [TAPS]. According to Alves, “TAPS glamorises tobacco use by associating the use of tobacoo products with positive social and personal images.” She has essentially concluded that the tobacco epidemic translates to the tobacco industry being the vector and the TAPS being the virus. Making direct reference to the daunting local situation, the Public Health lawyer revealed that 56.8 percent or over half of current smokers who usually buy their cigarettes in a store were

not refused purchases because of their age. She said that the percentage of students who were offered a free cigarette by a cigarette company in 2000 amount to 11 percent. That percentage climbed to 12.5 percent in 2004, according to Alves. This was in spite of the fact that some 50 percent of students reported that they had been taught in classes the past school year about the dangers of tobacco. There is a great deal yet to be done to combat the challenges of tobacco use. This is in light of the disclosure of the Coordinator of the Chronic Diseases Unit of the Public Health Ministry, Dr. Kavita Singh. According to Dr. Singh, the state of affairs that exists is that the tobacco epidemic among youth smokers is on the rise. She pointed out that cancer is the fourth leading cause of premature mortality in Guyana with lung cancer accounting for almost 10 percent of all cancer cases. Since smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer, Dr. Singh lamented the fact that without the implementation of Tobacco Control legislation, there Continued on page 30

Wednesday July 19, 2017

Kaieteur News

Keeping public informed critical for maintenance of Govt.’s legitimacy – IMF The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has shared its view about the critical nature of information sharing between Government and the public about oil related issues. This is in the IMF’s most recent report on Guyana. The view shared by the IMF is similar to that expressed by many in Guyana. They all are saying that the free flow of information from Government to the general public as well as the media is crucial. IMF said, “Communication with the general public is a critical part of maintaining legitimacy domestically, as well credibility internationally.” The body continued, “Informing the general public about the characteristics of the investment strategy and the risks that are taken should contribute to making the implementation of the strategy more robust in times of high market volatility.” IMF also linked the importance of public information to the setting up of a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF). That body said that it is “common for many SWFs to organize educational seminars, engage with the media, and maintain an active website with up-to-date information on the SWF’s activities.” There has been a deficit of information in the public domain about many oil related issues. Guyana is seeking to become a member of the Extractive Industries Transparency Institute (EITI). However, engagement with the public, particularly civil society is also critical for membership to that body. Nevertheless efforts by civil society so far to get information out of the government about matters related to the oil deal have been futile.

The Transparency Institute of Guyana Inc. (TIGI) tried to get information out of the government in this regard. It had written to the Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, seeking information. However, the body had to turn to the media after Minister Trotman refused to even acknowledge receipt of the letter. To this day, the body cannot get the information it is seeking. The Guyana Oil and Gas Association (GOGA), also another non-governmental organization wants information from the government that it is not getting. One of the Association’s Directors and prominent lawyer, Nigel Hughes, delivered a presentation in Trinidad and Tobago. He noted that the government has failed to give information about key concerns of the Guyanese people. These include whether there is a ceiling for cost recovery in any given year. Hughes also pointed out that there has been no indication whether cost recovery is a percentage of revenue. Hughes noted, too, that Guyanese are yet to be told how the government intends to validate the costs ExxonMobil has incurred. This is important, as the possibility of inflated cost cannot be ruled out. Hughes said, “There is also an absence of any

information on key variables including life of the project in years, the total investment, the annual fixed cost per year, estimated cost of a barrel of oil for the project, and whether any duties, tax concessions were granted.” During his presentation, Hughes spoke about the call made by the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) for more information to be put in the public domain. He said, “One of the parties in the Coalition called on the government to publish the contract.” He said that the Chairman of the WPA, in a letter to President David Granger said, “There is no justifiable reason for not publishing this contract. Seeking public comment on it is our democratic obligation. And engaging the widest possible sharing of views can only help the coalition government to make wiser decisions.” Hughes is not the only one with these concerns as many have been expressing similar concerns in the letter pages of the various newspapers. The media, which also forms part of civil society, has been asking questions but still cannot get information. For instance, the Minister of State was asked to disclose the names of the lead negotiators that have represented Guyana’s interest so far. His response was, “Those names are still under wraps.”

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Kaieteur News

Heavily armed gunmen rob Cuyuni mining camps Up to press time, police ranks were in the hinterland location waiting on transportation to get to Kartuni, Cuyuni River, Region Seven where it is alleged that at least six heavily armed gunmen are targeting mining camps and brutalizing the workers. This has been going on for the past five days. Yesterday, Divisional Commander, Rabindranauth Budhram, confirmed that the report has been received and that ranks were on their way to Kartuni. He said that there is no information as to how many camps were robbed by the bandits, who were reportedly speaking fluent Spanish and Portuguese. There is information that the gunmen are carrying high powered guns and they re-

portedly took away weapons belonging to at least two onsite security guards. The men escaped with raw gold, firearm, phones and at least six tractors. While workers have been attacked, there are no reports of fatalities. At each camp the men attack, they reportedly destroyed the communication system, making it difficult for ranks and even the owner for the camps to get information. Sheriff Mining Company owned by Mohamed Sheriff Henry was attacked on Monday afternoon. The gold miner told reporters the bandits escaped with his guard’s weapons and an undisclosed amount of gold after beating his workers. Henry noted that he heard that bandits were in the area and made contact with the

police at the Bartica Police Station on Friday. He said that he was informed that the ranks were already aware of the issue. He added that on Friday, the police made contact with him and informed him that his camp had been attacked. “I ask the police how they know and they said that one of my workers were heading to the camp when he saw what was happening and immediately went to the other camp where he called the police at the Landing,” Henry noted. He said that he had been told that the bandits took a female cook and another woman who were at his camp hostage but when contacted, Budhram said that he had not received that information and will only divulge what had

Henry’s camp that was attacked been reported to him. “Like all the camps these men go to, they destroying the communication system so we don’t know what is happening and there is no mode of

transportation to get in because they took all the tractors,” Henry said yesterday. It is unclear when the ranks will be able to get to the backdam. This newspaper

was told that they were waiting at the Guyana Gold Fields. Reports are that the division is expecting the Guyana Defence Force to help them get in by helicopter.

Wednesday July 19, 2017

Kaieteur News

Goldminer refused bail for Albouystown gunpoint robbery A 20-year-old gold miner who is accused of robbing a man he knows, at gunpoint, was yesterday remanded to prison after pleading not guilty to a robbery underarms charge. He appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Aubrey Hodge, of Lot 141 Howes Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, denied the charge which alleged that on June 14, last, at Cooper Street, Albouystown, Georgetown while armed with a gun, he robbed Patrick Douglas of a 22 penny weight gold chain valued at $140,000; a 23 pennyweight gold chain valued at $150,000 and a gold ring

REMANDED: Aubrey Hodge valued at $50,000. Hodge who was unrepresented by counsel, was in-

structed to make another court appearance on August 11, to collect statements. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore said that the parties are known to each other and that Hodge was positively identified by the victim. In objecting to bail for Hodge, the prosecutor pointed out that Hodge had been on the run since committing the offence and there is a likelihood he might not return to court. Prosecutor Moore also pointed out that at the time of his arrest, Hodge told police he resides at Lot 6 Ketley Street, Charlestown, Georgetown.

Court to calculate compensation... (From page 3) Executive Director had sued for some $550 million in damages but could not be present for the hearing, reportedly due to his ill health. Arjoon’s lawyer, Edward Luckhoo,S.C, had therefore requested that the Court make a calculation of the award. He noted that it should not be left to opposing parties to determine such figures. The Court had decided to give a computation of the amount in damages yesterday. However it was still to make that determination. The Court had essentially ruled that Arjoon suffered as a result of wrongful dismissal from NBS and should be compensated financially for the damages. The Judge also determined that the former executive is entitled to his pension, and severance benefits.

Back in 2007, Arjoon was accused of conspiracy to defraud the NBS of $69M along with Kissoon Baldeo, 38, of 86 Zeeburg, West Coast Demerara (Assistant Mortgage Manager of NBS) and Kent Vincent of 1247 Canje Pheasant Lane, South Ruimveldt (Operations Manager). They had faced a trial in the Magistrates’ Court. That matter was later dismissed for lack of evidence. The former CEO claimed that he was framed after he refused to illegally endorse the lending of $2B, in 2006 and moved to sue NBS for wrongful termination of his contract. A report by the Ombudsman had outlined that Arjoon’s decision to only lend an amount in keeping with Guyana’s financial laws, apparently angered former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, who allegedly threatened to deal with the CEO.

One year after, emergency generator... (From page 23) MACORP was the most reputable supplier. One member, Juan Edghill,told the PAC Chairman that the REO determined that he wanted a generator from MACORP and approached the company for an invoice and proceeded to cut a cheque for the amount. Ali said that the REO’s responses to questions were not in keeping with the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA). “Your actions have to be guided by the FMAA. I just want to remind you. It is not guided by how you feel, how you think and your own biases. It is guided by what the FMAA says.” Hopkinson said that other sources were approached but there was no response and based on the urgency of the situation, he was advised to go to MACORP. However, this explanation was still not accepted by Edghill. “I am not going to accept that answer. You had a budget that was approved by this House for the acquisition of a generator. In your capital projects you did not advertise for this generator to be procured. There was no advertisement. “In December, while your project is underperforming,

you sought to get the money out of the system to improve your performance. So you opted to sole source it. You discussed that with your PS who probably made some recommendations. You went to MACORP and got a quotation and you cut a cheque. Everything, against the law.” Edghill told Hopkinson that there was no urgency that required him to approach MACORP. He described it as a capital programme that was programmed into the region’s 2015 budget and that a procurement process was not followed. He told Hopkinson that the region simply ran out of time in sourcing the item and was trying to defend its slothfulness with excuses. Hopkinson maintained that there was an urgency to procure the item. This was confirmed by PAC member and Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence. She said, “As far as I know, this item is needed at the Suddie Hospital. While

they have a generator in place, it is not adequate enough to take off the load of the hospital. So this particular item is an emergency, perhaps not for the region but for the hospital, so that the hospital can be able to function adequately. “The money was budgeted in 2016. I was told that this generator was ordered. So my question to the REO is, what are the other challenges that today in 2017, we don’t have this generator?” The REO was asked what NPTAB communicated to the region as to the reason for not approving the purchase. Hopkinson said that NPTAB is asking that the region make a re-submission regarding the purchase. This excuse too was rejected by PAC. Ultimately, the REO said that the region will need to observe the policy and refund the cheque to the Consolidated Fund and advertise for the procurement of the generator in accordance with the law.

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Kaieteur News

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MASSAGE Neisha’s Massage Spa. Call: 674-8147

PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 677-7827, 6435122 ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP RATES,SPECIALOFFERS! . CALL: 690-6494 AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807

PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 One three bedroom concrete house for sale Contact Mala: 917-254-2909, location: Vryheid’s Lust, North. Call: 699-4111/626-2208 1 Transported property. Call: 265-3586 Property at lot 4 James Street Albouystown, suitable for business, price $50M, negotiable. Call: 666-2645/ 266-5655 Aubrey Barker -$27M, William Street -$11M, Diamond -$14M, Grove -$7.8M, David Street$30M, Norton -$10M. Call: 2312199/618-7483

LAND FOR SALE House lots in Blankenburg $3.5M. Contact-6500402\603-1402 MINING BLOCKS FOR SALE @ OMAI & CUYUNI NEAR BUCKHALL GY$2,500,000 EACH. CALL: 622-7563

1 – Semi furnished 3 bedrooms bottom flat, Upper Charlotte Street, residential area. Call: 696-1112

2 ½ Acres riverside land, 5 Acres land with 5,000 sq.ft building, Brickery, East Bank Demerara. Call: 653-2477/685-6874

1 Bedroom apartment situated @ Lot 319 East Street. Call: 266-3387/6441070

Prime land to build that dream home. Not far from Princess, New Thriving, Massy, HJ water world $13M neg- Call: 669-8397 Land at Well Street Ogle, E.C.D, back lot, 65feetX105feet - $12M. Call: 625-1514

One data entry clerk, must be computer literate & have passes @ CXC Maths & English. Apply PO BOX12118 1 Counter clerk, must have a decent handwriting & passes in Maths & English. Send handwritten application to PO BOX 12118

TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)

26 Happy Acres, East Coast, 5,830sq (53X110), 25 Million, negotiable. Call: 614-4358 VEHICLE FOR SALE

DOLLY’SCARRENTAL-CALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM

1 Maid for East Bank area. Call: 614-4358

Office & Classroom space available for rental between 9am & 4pm. Call: 231-1284/ 227-1028

Computerized Accounting, PC Repairs, graphics courses. Register Now @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 264-3057/Study in Canada or USA Call Now!

CAR RENTAL

Male with experienced in poultry farming to work on Paint Sale! Until supplies last! chicken farm in the interior, Coloured latex paint, 50% age 25-45yrs. Call: 680-2702 discount. Call: 265-3541/ 695Experience Tutor/ nanny to 4785/616-3411 read, teach & care for 2 years German shepherd puppies. old from 12:00hrs to 5:30pmCall: 220-2277/220-8904/629- Call: 623-1615 1471/639-5466 Farm worker, interested 1 Set of used magrims, 4 holes person only. Call: 265-3586 17". Call: 685-6874/653-2477 Cook/ Baker for interior. House & land for sale, latest Applicants must be Toyota Tundra and Tacoma experienced. Call: 618-2020 parts. Call: 646-8594 1 Salesclerk, 1 Part-time domestic, preferably from West Bank/West Coast Demerara. Call: 600-1559

Allion, Primo, Fielder Wagon, Spacio, Bluebird, 212 Carina, NZE, Honda CRV, Toyota IST, RZ & Pit-bull – Call: 650-7501

W.B.D: Schoonord -$3M, Uitvlugt 50X100 -$2.8M, La Parfaite 50X100 & foundation -$3.5M, $1.5M, $1.6M, Coglan Dam, Nimes -$2.5M. Call: 231-2199/618-7483

(2) 2010 Vitz - $2.2M negotiable each, 2010 Suzuki swift & Nissan March $2M negotiable each (all unregistered). Call: 6497771/690-7155

E.B.D: Diamond, Farm -$4.5M, Providence 50X185, land of Canaan cleared land -$6.5M acre, Republic Park -$15M. Call: 231-7805/ 618-7483

2006 Audi – A4 PRR series$3.1M. Call: 623-3839 (2) RX8 black ported powered engine, red no engine. Both $2.2M neg. Tel/ whatsapp- 680-3298 serious inquires only. 1 Extra cab Hilux pickup, 5L Diesel GVV series, test drive offering. Call: 673-3335/6043275/233-6218 1 Minibus- price -$1.850M. Call: 673-7934

Farm New Scheme (East Bank) 100ftX50ft- $2.5M (deal) all legal fees paid. Call: 667-1960/656-0701 La Parfaite Harmonie - $1.3M, way up front, already clean, all legal fees paid. Call: 6511969/ 611-7223 ACCOMMODATION Journey Inn apartment rental, short term with AC & Kitchen, as low as -$15US. Call: 642-1783/ 646-3011634/ 718-2301695

TO LET 1 Two bedrooms bottom flat at Patentia Housing Scheme, W.B.D- Call: 646-2120 or 6033119

Wednesday July 19, 2017

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Woman fined for making false oath over dead mother’s property

CHARGED: Maxine Baird Sampson

A 44-year-old woman found herself in some hot water yesterday after she was charged for making false oaths to affidavits dating back to 2004 to acquire a property her mother died and left. Maxine Baird Sampson of East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, Georgetown, was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where she pleaded guilty to the allegations.

Particulars of the first charge against her alleged that on October 23, 2004, at Georgetown, she took a false oath to an affidavit in a letter of administration stating that Lynette Duncan, her mother, had one child. This was false and was intended to cause a letter of administration to be granted to her. It was further alleged that on May 10, 2005 at Georgetown, she took a false oath to an affidavit requesting

title of an estate, stating that Lynette Duncan, had one child and she was the sole beneficiary, which was false. She was ordered to pay a fine of $100,000 on each charge with an alternative of serving a nine months prison term. According to Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore, on October 23, 2004 Sampson went to a Commissioner of Oath to Affidavit and swore that she was the only child for Lynette Duncan, who is

deceased and applied for the plot of land at Lot 227 Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara. The prosecutor said that Sampson then applied to the Deeds Registry and the title was granted to her. She later sold the property for $1.4M It was Sampson’s brother, Mark Baird, who reported the matter to the Brickdam Police Station. Investigations were carried out and Sampson was

arrested. Sampson told the Chief Magistrate that she sold the property because she was burdened with paying the rates and taxes. She related that her siblings reside in the United States of America and none of them assisted her with paying the rates and taxes. The woman related that in order to sell the property she was advised by someone to state that she was the only child for her mother.

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Bamia to get new nursery, primary... From page 11 Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne):

For the supply and delivery of pharmaceutical supplies, 2017:

Region Seven (Cuyuni/Mazaruni):

U.S. prepares to sanction Venezuela officials, Maduro defies threat Region Nine (Upper Takatu/Upper Essequibo):

The National Parks Commission (NPC) is the procuring entity for the construction of a reservoir at the Zoological Park, Georgetown.

The Commission is also the procuring entity for the fabrication and installation of two entrance gates at the National Park Tarmac, Georgetown.

The RDC for Region Four (Demerara/Mahaica), was listed as the procuring entity for the procurement of an ultra-sound machine.

The Ministry of Health is the procuring entity for several contracts. For the procurement of emergency pharmaceutical supplies for the regional and clinic services:

For the supply and delivery of medical supplies, 2017:

U.S. President Donald Trump (left) and Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro WASHINGTON/ CARACAS (Reuters) - The Trump administration is preparing sanctions against several senior Venezuelan officials, U.S. officials said yesterday, to pressure President Nicolas Maduro to abort plans for a controversial congress foes say would cement dictatorship. Maduro’s leftist government vowed to proceed with the July 30 vote for the new Constituent Assembly despite what it called a “brutal interventionist” threat from its ideological foe. President Donald Trump said on Monday he would take “strong and swift economic actions” if Maduro went ahead with the new body that would have power to rewrite Venezuela’s constitution and supersede other institutions. Trump’s administration is crafting possible sanctions against Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez and Socialist Party No. 2 Diosdado Cabello for alleged rights violations, U.S. officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity. A senior Trump administration official made no announcement of new sanctions on a conference call with reporters yesterday and said the policy review was still under way.

That official stressed “all options are on the table,” including possible measures against Venezuela’s vital oil sector, as Washington seeks to head off the July 30 vote, which it sees as Maduro’s effort to create a “full dictatorship.” The possible sanctions on officials, which would follow similar steps against Venezuela’s vice president earlier this year, would freeze their U.S. assets and prohibit anyone in the United States from doing business with them. A sanctions announcement could be made within days unless Trump decides to put the move on hold, something one of the sources told Reuters could not be ruled out. The senior administration official declined to provide the names of individuals or entities that could be on any forthcoming list, but said the United States “reserved the right” to issue sanctions even before the July 30 vote. While tough oil-related sanctions could bankrupt the Maduro administration and worsen grave food shortages, hitting Venezuela’s energy sector could raise U.S. domestic gasoline prices, which would be unpopular with Americans. Venezuela is the third

largest foreign oil supplier to the United States, after Canada and Saudi Arabia, exporting about 780,000 barrels per day of crude. Any sanctions by Trump, who is largely unpopular abroad, could be used by Maduro to bolster his accusations that Washington is trying to sabotage leftism in Latin America and unite the ruling Socialist Party just as fissures were emerging. ‘XENOPHOBIC THREAT’ Decrying “imperialism” still resonates for some in a region scarred by Washington’s support of coups during the Cold War. “Venezuelans are free and will unite against the insolent threat from a xenophobic and racist government ... (and) the United States’ brutal interventionist efforts,” Foreign Minister Samuel Moncada said, vowing the July 30 vote would go ahead. “It is an act of political sovereignty by the Republic. Nothing and nobody can stop it,” he said. Polls show a majority of Venezuelans oppose the Constituent Assembly, which critics say would be elected in a sham poll. Maduro insists it is the only way to bring peace after months of anti-government unrest that has killed 100 people and further hurt a crippled economy.

Wednesday July 19, 2017

Trump, Putin held a second, undisclosed meeting at G20 summit

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin talks to U.S. President Donald Trump during their bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany. (Reuters photo/Carlos Barria) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a second, previously undisclosed conversation during a dinner for G20 leaders at a summit earlier this month in Germany, a White House official confirmed yesterday. The two leaders held a formal two-hour bilateral meeting on July 7 in which Trump later said Putin denied allegations that he directed efforts to meddle in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. The White House official did not say how long the sec-

ond meeting took place or what was discussed. The second conversation between Trump and Putin took place during a dinner for the Group of 20 heads of state and their spouses in Hamburg, said Ian Bremmer, the president of political risk consultancy Eurasia Group, who was first to report the meeting in a note to clients. Television coverage of the dinner showed that first lady Melania Trump was seated next to Putin. Bremmer said Trump got up from his seat halfway through dinner and spent

about an hour talking “privately and animatedly” with Putin, “joined only by Putin’s own translator.” The lack of a U.S. translator raised eyebrows among other leaders at the dinner, said Bremmer, who called it a “breach of national security protocol.” Trump is under intense scrutiny by Congress and a special counsel investigating Russian interference into the 2016 presidential election, and probing whether Trump’s campaign had ties to the activity. Trump has denied collusion between his campaign and Moscow.

U.S. puts new sanctions on Iran over ballistic missile programme WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States slapped new economic sanctions against Iran yesterday over its ballistic missile programme and said Tehran’s “malign activities” in the Middle East undercut any “positive contributions” coming from the 2015 Iran nuclear accord. The measures signalled that the administration of President Donald Trump was seeking to put more pressure on Iran while keeping in place an agreement between Tehran and six world powers to curb its nuclear programme in return for lifting international oil and financial sanctions. The U.S. government said it was targeting 18 entities and people for supporting what is said was “illicit Iranian actors or transnational criminal activity.” Those sanctioned had backed Iran’s military or Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps by developing drones and military equipment, producing and maintaining

boats, and procuring electronic components, it said. Others had “orchestrated the theft of U.S. and Western software programs” sold to Iran’s government, the Treasury Department said. “The United States remains deeply concerned about Iran’s malign activities across the Middle East which undermine regional stability, security, and prosperity,” the State Department said in a statement. It said the activities “undercut whatever ‘positive contributions’ to regional and international peace and security were intended to emerge” from the nuclear agreement. On Monday, the Trump administration said Iran was complying with the nuclear agreement but it was also in default of the spirit of the accord and Washington would look for ways to strengthen it. It was the second time Trump certified Iranian compliance with the agreement

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since he took office in January, despite having described it as “the worst deal ever” during his 2016 presidential campaign, criticizing thenPresident Barack Obama whose administration negotiated the accord. “Even as we continue to work to prevent Iran from ever obtaining a nuclear weapon, we cannot look away while Iran threatens our country and our allies in ways beyond their nuclear threat,” White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told reporters on Tuesday. The statement listed Iranian support for groups including Lebanon’s Hezbollah and the Palestinian Hamas movement, the Syrian government of President Bashar al-Assad and Houthi rebels in Yemen. Iran condemned Washington’s sanctions announcement as “contemptible and worthless.” Iran “will reciprocate the move by imposing sanctions

Republican push to end Obamacare collapses in U.S. Senate WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Republican efforts to overhaul or repeal Obamacare collapsed in the U.S. Senate yesterday, dealing a sharp setback to President Donald Trump and the Republican Party’s seven-year quest to kill former President Barack Obama’s signature healthcare law. The disarray in the Republican-controlled Senate rattled financial markets as it cast doubt on the chances of getting Trump’s other domestic policy priorities, such as tax reform, through a divided Congress. Trump said he was disappointed by the failure and suggested he might let the insurance markets created under Obamacare go under and then, potentially, work with Democrats on a rescue. “We’re probably in that position where we’ll just let Obamacare fail,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “We will let Obamacare fail, and then the Democrats are going to come to us.” U.S. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell announced a vote on a straight repeal of Obamacare, which would take effect in two years, after it became clear on Monday night that he did not have enough support to pass an overhaul of the healthcare law. He said yesterday that the vote would take place “early next week.” But prospects for the repeal vote appeared doomed with at least three Republican senators voicing opposition. Moderate Republican Senators Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska quickly announced they would not back repeal. With Democrats united in opposition, Republicans can only afford to lose two votes to pass the measure in the Senate, where they have a slim 52-48 majority. “I do not think that it’s going to be constructive to repeal a law that at this point is so interwoven within our healthcare system and then hope that over the next two years we will come up with some kind of replacement,” Collins told reporters. The failed effort to replace Obamacare raised new concerns for U.S. health insurers over whether the government would continue to fund billions of dollars in medical benefit subsidies. Obamacare has boosted the number of Americans with health insurance through mandates on individuals and employers, and income-based subsidies. About 20 million Americans gained insurance coverage through the law.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell speaks with the media yesterday about the recently withdrawn healthcare bill on Capitol Hill in Washington. (Reuters photo/ Aaron P. Bernstein) “This has been a very, very challenging experience for all of us,” McConnell said, adding that the chamber needed to move on to issues like tax reform and a spending package to bolster the country’s infrastructure. As the healthcare bill collapsed in the Senate, leaders in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives unveiled a budget plan putting a proposed tax code overhaul on the same partisan procedural path that led to the anti-Obamacare initiative’s chaotic downfall. Republicans had hoped to finish with healthcare before an upcoming August recess so they could tackle a wideranging rewrite of the U.S. tax code in September. Separate talks on taxes appear unlikely to reach Trump’s pledge to reduce the corporate tax rate to 15 percent from 35 percent. But their failure exposed the sharp divide within Republicans’ own ranks, with moderates concerned the healthcare bill’s Medicaid cuts would take insurance away from millions of low-income Americans while conservatives backed the cuts and wanted even more dramatic changes to Obamacare. The U.S. dollar stumbled to a 10-month low against a basket of currencies and U.S. Treasury yields fell after the fresh setback to the healthcare bill raised investors’ doubts about Trump’s ability to enact tax cuts and infrastructure spending. Reaction in the stock market was muted, and analysts said the expectation for businessfriendly legislation out of Washington is all but priced out of the stock market. “The healthcare hurdle pushes everything in Trump’s agenda to 2018,” said Art Hogan, chief market strategist at Wunderlich Securities in New York. “CONGRESS NEEDS TO STEP UP” Trump vowed that the

healthcare effort was not dead. In an early morning Twitter message, he said, “We were let down by all of the Democrats and a few Republicans. Most Republicans were loyal, terrific & worked really hard. We will return!” Trump had pushed hard to get a bill to repeal and replace Obamacare through the U.S. House of Representatives in May and celebrated the victory with lawmakers on the White House lawn. But with polls showing the Republican bill was unpopular, he later called it “mean” and did little to convince Republican senators to get a deal. Vice President Mike Pence said Trump supported the move to vote on a straight repeal of Obamacare. “Inaction is not an option,” Pence said at the National Retail Federation Conference in Washington. “Congress needs to step up, Congress needs to do their job, and Congress needs to do their job now.” In crafting a replacement, Republicans ran up against Obamacare’s growing popularity. A Washington PostABC News poll published on Sunday showed Americans preferred it over the Republican alternative by a 2-1 margin. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer urged Republicans to start over and work with Democrats. Democratic Senator Patty Murray, the leading Democrat on the Senate health committee, said in an interview with Reuters that a bipartisan effort could help stabilize insurance markets. She said a bipartisan effort to fund cost-sharing subsidies that help cover premiums, deductibles and other medical expenses for about 7 million people who purchase health insurance on the individual market would “send a strong message to the market” and “create some stabilization that is much needed.” Within hours of the bill’s

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Media have role to play in quest... ‘Small Man’ busted with over 16lbs ganja at road block From page 14 exists no law to protect the population even from the dangers of second hand smoking. Added to this, she said that there exists no comprehensive cancer prevention and control plan. “Tobacco use is a cross cutting risk factor for all non-communicable diseases [NCDs] which absorbs an estimated 48 percent of the national health budget,” said Dr. Singh. Moreover, with support from stakeholders, including the media, it is anticipated that the dangers of tobacco will continually be amplified and help to create the needed change. In was with a view of realising change that WHO had long issued a clarion call for countries

to prioritise and accelerate tobacco control efforts as part of their responses to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Moreover, tobacco control has been enshrined in the WHO-engineered Sustainable Development Goals. In fact tobacco control is seen as one of the most effective means to help achieve the SDG target of one-third reduction globally, by 2030, of premature deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, cancers and chronic obstructed pulmonary disease. Strengthening the implementation of the WHO/FCTC in all countries is an additional target to be met by governments developing national sustainable development responses.

A taxi driver who was transporting a passenger to Linden was busted with over 16 pounds of marijuana hidden in compartments and in the trunk of the vehicle which was intercepted by ranks from the Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU). This is according to CANU Prosecutor, Konyo Sandiford, who opposed bail being granted to alleged drug trafficker, Glenmore Mc Bean, 34, a taxi driver, of Lot 78 Wismar Housing Scheme, Linden. Mc Bean, also known as ‘Small Man’, was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and denied the allegation that on July 16, last, at Soesdyke Junction, East Bank Demerara, he had 7.388 kilograms of cannabis sativa (marijuana) in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. Prosecutor Sandiford related to the court that on July 16, CANU ranks received certain information at Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara and as a result set up a road block at Soesdyke Junction, East Bank Demerara. Prosecutor Sandiford said that motorcar HC 7963 which was being driven by Mc Bean was intercepted at the roadblock during which he admitted to having a bag of marijuana in the vehicle.

- court hears However, upon searching the vehicle the prosecutor said that ranks found parcels of marijuana hidden in a compartment and in the trunk of the vehicle. Mc Bean is the registered owner of the vehicle, Sandiford disclosed. Attorney-at-Law Bernard DaSilva who represented Mc Bean petitioned for him to be released on bail citing that special reasons arise from the circumstances under which his client was arrested. DaSilva stated that on the day in question, Mc Bean was transporting a passenger to Linden when the car was stopped and searched and the alleged narcotics unearthed. According to the lawyer, prior to the vehicle being stopped and searched, the passenger who was seated in the back disembarked the vehicle a few yards from the road block after receiving a phone call. DaSilva pointed out that the alleged narcotics were found in the passenger’s side compartment of the vehicle and also in the trunk. The lawyer stated that his client should be granted pre-trial liberty since the alleged narcotics was not found in his possession

REMANDED: Glenmore Mc Bean but rather in the vehicle which had a passenger before it was stopped and searched. Prosecutor Sandiford contended that Mc Bean provided CANU ranks with certain oral statements admitting that the drug was indeed in the vehicle. But DaSilva argued that caution statements are subject to being tested by the court since the court is well aware of how they are sometimes extracted from an accused. The Chief Magistrate refused bail for the defendant citing that no special reasons were raised by the defence to satisfy the court. Mc Bean will make another court appearance on July 13, for statements.

Wednesday July 19, 2017

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Wednesday July 19, 2017

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The Truth! - Jamaica needs honesty from politicians to fight corruption (Jamaica Gleaner) A truthtelling medium for Jamaican politicians is the latest recommendation from a senator concerned that the corruption fight will not be won with just laws. Matthew Samuda, a government senator, gave the recommendation last Friday as he contributed to the debate on the Integrity Commission bill that will establish a single anticorruption agency. For him, however, while specific acts must be targeted, fighting the perception of corruption in public governance will require more. “The perception of corruption also hampers investments, it also hampers development. How do we take on the perception? Because, I believe the legislation gives us the framework to take on the actual acts of corruption,” he said. “It is time that we consider a truth and reconciliation commission to be able to clear the air once and for all on many issues that have bedevilled this society,” suggested the former head of the G2K, a young professional arm of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party. One of the first ‘truth’ acts, he said, much to the annoyance of opposition members, was for their leader, Dr Peter Phillips, to

explain why he attended the funeral in 2001 of alleged don William ‘Willie Haggart’ Moore. “It would be prudent and perhaps [the] time has come [for him to say] why he felt so strongly that he should attend the funeral of [the] reputed drug lord,” Samuda said. GOING DOWN THE WRONGPATH Lambert Brown responded, claiming that Samuda was imputing an “improper motive”. That was rejected by acting Senate President Aubyn Hill. Samuda also denied it, saying he was only asking a question. “Those who seek to lead us now must be willing to face their record.” But Brown maintained that Samuda was proceeding down the wrong path and should also speak of actions of his party. “Some of those who are leading us now threatened to box a presiding officer [and] refused to shake the hands of Bishop Herro Blair, so we could go there about the current prime minister.” In September 2006, Holness refused to shake the hands of Blair, the then head of the Peace Management Initiative, who was leading a tour in his St Andrew West Central constituency. Holness later apologised.

In June 2017, government Senator Kerensia Morrison upset some politicians when she called for some of them to be dragged to jail to remind citizens that the justice system does not

recognise status. Earlier this month, opposition member K.D. Knight said politicians “have something to answer” regarding Jamaica’s crime problem. According to

- Government Senator Knight, at least two political figures from as far back as the 1960s were major instigators

of political violence that have influenced current happenings.

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Wednesday July 19, 2017

England hold nerve in thriller to... (From page 39) like a dagger through South Africa’s hearts as another World Cup dream crashing down to ;eave them heartbroken even as a jubilant England side extended an arm of support to the wounded soldiers. If South Africa were to reflect on the heart-wrenching loss, as they would in all likelihood, they’d perhaps rue letting England drift away when Taylor whipped, scooped and flicked her way to a half-century. Her 78-run stand with Knight had a deflating effect. They also didn’t help matters early in the chase by being a little offcolour on the field. Trisha Chetty, the record-holder for most dismissals in women’s ODIs, had a particularly bad day, fluffing two opportunities along with a number of fumbles to leak runs. All of this meant South Africa had no control over proceedings until Dane van Niekerk brought them back with an inspirational effort a one-handed pick up at cover to run Taylor out with a direct hit at the striker’s end in the 33rd over. They weren’t the same side from there on. Laura Wolvaardt’s acrobatic

effort at square leg off a full toss sent Knight back. When Natalie Sciver was bowled around her legs by Sune Luus, South Africa’s hopes brightened. The tournament’s best batting line-up was seriously being challenged by a gun attack. But England had a Gunn in their ranks too, and she biffed two boundaries off the 47th over to bring the equation to under a run-a-ball, shortly after Mosaline Daniels removed Katherine Brunt. But at the end, South Africa were left to rue a lower-order collapse of their own, which left them at least 30 short of what they should’ve got. Wolvaardt and Mignon du Preez struck half-centuries, and together they put on 77 for the third wicket, to set South Africa for a tilt at 250, but they never gained momentum. Once Wolvaardt fell, England simply didn’t let the middle and lower order get away on a slow surface where manufacturing shots wasn’t easy. Yet, Wolvaardt’s control of her batting stood out when runs were hard to come by. She batted with the maturity of a veteran, who knew how to make up for the slow start.

At the other end, du Preez improvised, often manufacturing strokes by walking across or using the depth of the crease to either flick or cut and pull. But the first sign of growing comfort resulted in Knight introducing spin. It was a sign that they’d done their homework. Laura Marsh and Alex Hartley tied the runs down in the middle overs, before Knight reaped the reward in her first over when Wolvaardt was out bowled trying to cut a skiddy delivery. Three balls later, a mix-up led to Marizanne Kapp’s run out. South Africa’s last roll of the dice at 250 were Van Niekerk and Chloe Tryon, who replaced Masabata Klaas, only because they needed the middle-order muscle. When she chipped a simple return catch off her third delivery, South Africa’s innings had quickly descended into free fall. It needed a pugnacious unbeaten 76 from du Preez to give them a fighting chance, but it wasn’t quite enough. Scores: England 221 for 8 (Taylor 54, Wilson 30, Luus 2-24 Khaka 2-28) beat SouthAfrica 218 for 6 (Du Preez 76, Wolvaardt 66) by two wickets.

Wednesday July 19, 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Finish overdue paperwork and catch up on letter writing and reading.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You can meet new and exciting friends who will provide mental stimulation.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) Don't overload your plate. You may have taken on a little too much, but you will enjoy every minute of it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your interest in helping others may take you back to school. Love can be yours if you get out and about.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Someone close to you will get upset easily if you are insensitive to their needs.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Abrupt changes concerning your professional position are evident. Give everyone in the house a physical chore that will help burn off some of the excess energy. Invite friends over.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Your romantic inclination should lead to a committed relationship. You can help sort out problems that friends are facing. Problems with your mate will develop if you don't let them have their way. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You may want to invest in something that will grow in value. Encourage the youngsters in your family. Your attitude is changing rapidly and your plate is overloaded. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You will find your personal partner taxing today. Don't make financial contributions in order to impress others. Take a look at the possibilities of starting a small part time business with friends or relatives.

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CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Do not travel unless absolutely necessary. Be careful. Real estate investments could be to your advantage. You need activity. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) It may not be the best time to socialize with clients or colleagues today. Be discreet about your personal life or whereabouts. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Use discrimination and play hard to get. Do what you can but don't jeopardize your health trying to please everyone. Be cautious who you deal with financially.

Top IKD Chairman & Chief Instructor... (From page 34) Gittens, Emily Ramlochand, Fardeen Thomas, Benjamin Best, Eshan Brij, Ronald Arjune, Paul Albert, Jaden Clarke, Bibi Farook, Emmaunel Griffith, Leonardo Totaram, Thamishwar Dyasindoo. 10 KYU TO 7 KYU: Amara Nandan, David Bissoon, Jasmine West, Ricardo Narine, Meshach Sullivan, Saarah Majid, Maheshwar Dyasindoo. 10 KYU TO 6 KYU: Kejin Wan, Ya Meng Wan, Shaquan Barrow. 8 KYU TO 6 KYU: Yi Jun Huang, Bohan Cao, Priya Parasram

7 KYU TO 5 KYU: Mark McCalman, Brandon Lewis, Joslyn Abraham, Bradley Fenty, Demian Dhanraj, Ramzan Singh, Crystal Itwaru, Krisendat Phagoo. 6 KYU TO 4 KYU: Aldo Melendez, Danielle Persaud, Emily Santana-Leon. 5 KYU TO 3 KYU: Cecil DaSilva, Jerry Santana-Bain, Arya Ramessar, Raphael Isaacs, Ava Koosial. Total KYU grades, promotions: 24 students to Yellow Belt (8 KYU), 38 students to Orange Belt (7 KYU), 21 students to Green Belt (6 KYU), 12 students to Blue Belt (5 KYU), 10 students to Purple

Belt (4 KYU), 18 students to Brown Belt (3 KYU), 4 students to Brown Belt (2 KYU), 6 students to Brown Belt (1 KYU). Six (6) students to 1st DAN (Black Belt), One (1) student to 2nd DAN (Black Belt). ASK-Guyana extended congratulations to all the students who were successful as well as Instructors: Amir Kkhouri and Roger Peroune (YMCA), Hazrat Ali (Albion and Blairmont), Laurence Lowe (Georgetown), Parmeshwar Persaud (Land of Canaan), Nathalie Gibson (Linden) and Mahadeo Ramotar (Canal #1).

RHTY&SC and Rossignol Meat Processors... (From page 38) assisting other clubs across Guyana as it would enable them to offer sports as an alternative to a life with drugs, crime, violence and alcohol. Noting, that when the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club was founded in 1990, there was about 130 cricket clubs in Berbice, Foster stated that there are less than forty currently. Most of the forty clubs are unable to purchase cricket balls and gears and as such depends heavily on the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club for survival. The donation from Rossignol is the first of its kind to the 2016 Cricket Club

of the Year Awardee and Foster expressed confidence that the relationship between the Company and the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club would be strengthened in the future. The cricket balls would be shared out of Friday during a special Ceremony under the Patron’s Fund. A total of $500,000 (five hundred thousand dollars) worth of cricket balls would be shared out to clubs. Among the clubs that would receive balls are Blairmont, Bush Lot, Young Achievers, Young Warriors, Chesney, No. 19, No. 53, Kildonan and Whim. The Rose Hall Town

Youth & Sports Club Secretary/CEO expressed gratitude to Country Manager Marcel D’Haese and Administrative Manager Regina Low-Koon for their assistance in obtaining the sponsorship and disclosed that the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club would promote Rossignol Meat Processors widely across Berbice. Administrative Manager, Regina Low-Koon, expressed confidence that the programme would be a success and that the cricket balls would assist the clubs to produce cricketers for Berbice, Guyana and the West Indies.

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Vergenoegen Boxing Tournament cancelled T h e Ve r g e n o e g e n Boxing Gym (VBG), ‘Nuff Cuff’ tournament that was

scheduled for July 3 but was subsequently re-scheduled for July 31st, has now been

cancelled. According to VBG Head, Clifton Moore, among the

reasons for the cancellation is the current prolonged rainy season and the fact that two of the gyms, GDF and Republican will not be able to field boxers for the rescheduled date for the open air event. ”So as it with these factors in mind that we at the Vergenoegen Boxing Gym

are deeply sorry for this but we are however looking to see how the year runs and will try to make another approach to host the boxing tournament in December or February of next year.” The VBG is extending thanks to Mr. Javed Ali and the staff of Slingerz Family Entertainment for trying

every effort possible to host this tournament not only for the West Side but more so for the people of Vergenoegen. Gratitude was also extended to Courts Guyana, Ansa McAl through their Ginseng brand and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

Gaskin Memorial Sports Programme, Ansa McAl Award of Excellence set for Friday The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, Awards Committee and its eight cricket teams on Friday would be hosting their 5th Annual Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Awards Programme at the St. Francis Community Developers Training Centre. The Club would also be hosting the Annual Ansa McAl Award of Excellence during the same event. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster along with Speaker of the National A s s e m b l y D r, B a r t o n Scotland would be the main speakers. The Awards to be shared out are Sportsmen and Sportswoman of the Year 2016, Sports Personality of t h e Ye a r, S p o r t s Organisation of the Year and Lifetime Achievement in Sports. The main objectives of the Gregory Gaskin Awards are to promote the importance of sports, to recogn i s e a n d h o n o u r outstanding performance in sports during a calendar year, to identify positive role models for youths to emulate and to

pay respect to the legacy of the late Gregory Gaskin, a strong supporter of sports. Each of the Awardees would receive a trophy, Medal, Certificate of Excellence and a collection of special gifts. Five outstanding Berbicians with a combined total of almost 160 years of service would be honoured for their outstanding contributions to the development of Guyana under the Ansa Mcal Award of Excellence Programme. The Awards would be shared out under the Sub-headings of Health, Sports, Education, Culture and Community Development. The 2017 Awardees are Catherine Archer Education, Rhonda Trim Community Development, Albert Smith – and Sports and Culture - Ruth Jaundoo. The Awardees would each receive special gifts, trophy, Medal and Framed Certificate. Aw a r d e e s f o r b o t h programmes are selected by a panel of judges headed by veteran Television Editor Gregory Rambarran. Members of the General

Public are encouraged to submit nominations to the Judging Panel. Strong emphasis was based on personal discipline and role model status. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, during the two hours Ceremony would also be launching a Say No to Drugs/Suicide and Yes to Education Exercise books Programme in conjunction with the National Milling Company (Namilco). A total of 30 Secondary and Primary Schools from across Region 6 would receive exercise books for Grade 6 and Form one students. Each of the exercise books would have messages directed to youths on the Say No/Say Yes Campaign. A total of 12,500 exercise books would be shared out and Foster disclosed that it would be the largest distribution by an NGO in Berbice. Managing Director of Namilco Bert Sukhai and Financial Controller Fitz McLeod are expected to be present for the historic presentation.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday July 19, 2017

PAGE 37

Trans Pacific, KSM Investment, Bissan Trading make donations to RHTY&SC The effort of the eight cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, to make a positive difference in the lives of youths on Saturday last received a major boost when several Companies and individuals made contributions. The contributions were made to the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club Say No/Say Yes Campaign and the Patron’s Community Programme. Chief Executive Officer of Trans Pacific Auto Sales, Mr. Ramsaywack donated a cartoon of trophies valued $50,000 (fifty thousand dollars) towards the Say No/Say Yes Campaign, which targets 60,000 youths in Berbice to get them to Say No to Drugs, Suicide, Crime, A l c o h o l a n d Ye s t o Education, Life, Sports and Religion. The trophies would be used to host educational and sporting events for youths in Berbice. Mr. Mahadeo Panchu of KSM Investment handed

over 52 coloured Polo T/Shirts valued $120,000 (one hundred and twenty thousand dollars) towards hosting of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club’s Patron Green Economy Softball Tournament. The tournament which would involve 16 (sixteen) teams is scheduled to bowl off this weekend once the weather permits. The four sets of Polo T/Shirts would be used to uniform the semifinalists of the tournament. The winner of the tournament would receive $500,000 (five hundred thousand dollars), while the total prize package would be in excess of $1M. Mr. Bissoondyal Singh and Family of Bissan’s Trading contributed $60,000 (sixty thousand dollars) worth of cricket balls, while Apex Insurance, Claude Raphael of Raphael Real Estate, Ronald Williams and Survival Supermarket donated a combined $100,000 (one hundred

thousand dollars). All of the financial donations would be used to purchase cricket balls to assist less fortunate clubs across Berbice. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster is very pleased to receive the donation as it would enable the club to fulfill its mandate of making a positive difference. He expressed gratitude to all of the donors especially Mr. Ramsaywack, Bissoondyal Singh, Mahadeo Panchu, Ronald Williams, Claude Raphael and C. Arjune for their assistance. The donation of cricket balls would be handed over to clubs on Friday during a ceremony at the St. Francis Community Developers Training Centre. Foster noted that while the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club is proud of its highly impressive record on the cricket field, it was concerned about the ability of other clubs to fulfill their

Mr. Anirude Jagernauth (left), Sales Manager of Trans Pacific hands over donation to RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster.

mandates to youths. The donation of cricket balls is

the third such assistance to clubs in 2017 and would

carry the total of over $1M worth of balls.

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Region 1 will become a GFF member association in the coming months – Forde The President of the Guyana Football Federation ( G F F ) , Wa y n e F o r d e , announced on Sunday last that Region One will become a GFF’s Regional Member Association (RMA) in the coming months. This announcement was made at the finals of the Rupununi Football Association (RFA) Champions League 2017 held at the Guyana Rush Saints football ground in Lethem, Region 9. In his address to the teams prior to the match and while emphasizing the need for the expansion of the GFF-ScotiaBank Academy Training Centres (ATC), Forde said a fact-finding mission is being conducted in Region 1. “Today Mr. Dion Inniss, Executive member of the GFF, is in Region 1 on a fact finding mission. He will be meeting with leaders of the communities to initiate the membership process. Region 1 will become a

President Forde with members of the Guyana Rush Saints FC. Member Association in the coming months and we will be establishing an Academy Training Center there as well.” Forde underscored the human development element

of football in the hinterland as well the importance of the talent in the hinterland being part of the growth of the game: “The Football leaders of the past offered excuses; my Executive offers

practical solutions to accessing the talent of the hinterland. We have the courage to confront the challenges that for many years have suffocated the development of football within the hinterland communities. This is what football development should look like, we are doing our best to make up for many years of neglect and I promise you that I will not rest until the leadership of this Nation recognizes the human development power of football and its value to the

peoples of the hinterland Communities.” The finals of the RFA Champions League 2017, saw the Guyana Rush Saints FC male team being crowned champions over Paiwomak Warriors FC by a 4–1 margin and Guyana Rush Saints FC female team defeating Titans United FC by 2 – 1. Among the scorers for the Guyana Rush Saints FC were Franklyn Parks (2) and Jude Mc Donald (2), while Shawn Browne was the scorer for Paiwomak Warriors FC.

For the female team, Nara Rocha and Samantha Paulina scored for the Guyana Rush Saints FC and Jannes Marawanarau scored for Titans United FC. Sixteen teams participated in the tournament, which began in March 2017, consisting of males and females. The finals also had remarks from Kerwin Ward, R e g i o n 9 ’s R e g i o n a l Executive Officer (REO); Ms. Manisha Mai-Lee Wong – First Princess in the Miss World Guyana 2017 as well as tournament sponsors.

Top IKD Chairman & Chief Instructor, Woon-A-Tai Grades 140 Karate Students

Ninth Dan Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai, Senseis Amir Khouri6th Dan and Roger Peroune 4th Dan takes time out for a pic with the successful students following Sunday’s examinations. Ninth (9th) Dan Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai, founder of the International Karate Daigaku, graded 140 Karatekas of the ASKGuyana at the YMCA Thomas Lands on Sunday last and was assisted by Senseis Amir Khouri6th Dan and Roger Peroune 4th Dan. Students from the Association Do Shotokan Karate-Guyana, Dojo’s -

Linden, Albion, Blairmont, Land of Canaan, Canal #1 and Georgetown were examined and graded. Following are the r e s u l t s : 2nd Dan Promotion: 1. Matthew Alexander Gurahoo - YMCA 1st Dan promotions: 1. Harikirtan Singh – YMCA; 2. Orlando Giddings – YMCA; 3. Joshua Parasram – Blairmont; 4. Aarti

Ramgolam – Canaan, 5. Alex Nandram Benjamin – Canaan; 6. Sean Paul Wesley – Canaan. Outstanding KYU grades, promotions: 10 KYU to 8 KYU - Javy Archibald, Daniel Cox, Jelani Jones, Brandon Foo, Alexander Singh, Kenetha Fraser, Cleon Brisport, Javari McKenzie, Rasheed John, Shoaib Majid, Robert (Continued on page 31)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday July 19, 2017

PAGE 39

GFF/BFA NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power U-17 League

Wins for Paradise Invaders and Cougars When, competition in the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO) Thunderbolt Flour Power Intra A s s o c i a t i o n U n d e r- 1 7 League continued with round-two action on the weekend, registering

victories were Paradise Invaders and Cougars. Enjoying home advantage at the Paradise ground, Paradise Invaders edged Hopetown Rangers 21, while 9-man Cougars trounced Young Strikers 2-0 playing at Burnham Park, New Amsterdam. For Paradise, both goals were scored in the first half, Daniel Nicholson, playing

his first official match for Paradise opened proceedings in the 12th minute with Shaqueel DeHarte’s 22-minute strike doubling the lead. A fighting Hopetown Rangers side pulled one back with a very good finish from Telston Miller in the 26th minute after receiving a pass from the right side on the edge of the 18 yards box.

Digicel Schools Football Championship

Waramadong thrash Paruima 6-0 -will now play Bartica in Regional final

Waramadong goalscorers - The Waramadong marksmen takes a photo op after their victory over Paruima on Sunday, at the Waramadong Community Centre ground. Region 7 champions Waramadong moved one step closer to making the national playoffs after inflicting a 6-0 thrashing on Paruima on Sunday, at the Waramadong Community Centre ground. Played in brilliant sunshine in front of a fair-sized crowd in the Digicel Schools Football Championship, Waramadong took the lead after thirteen minutes when Nadir Walker’s expertly struck cornerkick curled past the outstretched hands of a surprised Paruima goalkeeper, before settling in the back of the goal. B o t h t e a m s uncharacteristically lost possession through some errant passing, but solid defending erased some excellent opportunities until Waramadong made it 2-0 through a wonderful exhibition of speed and skill. It started when Alvon Hunter raced on to a ball sent through from centrefield delivered on the right flank and he blew past two defenders, before burying his right-footed effort into

the far corner. That goal came in the 21st minute of play and it was from that moment the floodgates flew open. The speedy Javin Castro stretched their advantage two minutes later when he was left unmarked following a squared ball from the left side and in one motion swept a stinging left-footer past a seemingly hypnotized goalkeeper. The score remained 3-0 until the break as the partisan Wa r a m a d o n g c r o w d vociferously applauded their boys. Coming out in the final period, Paruima needing to respond quickly overcompensated in attack and paid the price for doing so. Their strategy of pushing forward more players left their backline exposed and Wa r a m a d o n g ’s C o l i n Edwards proved too fast and elusive to stop as he sprinted on to a long ball, before firing past the stranded goalkeeper in the 38th minute to make it 4-0. The bleeding stopped

momentarily, but returned in the 66th minute when Reon McNaughton was left isolated in a goalmouth scrimmage and he booted into the goal. Two minutes later, Castro returned to complete his brace with a powerful strike from close range to seal the victory in emphatic fashion. They now move on to play Bartica in the Regional final tomorrow at the Leonora Synthetic Track facility on the West Demerara from 3:00pm. The winner will then move on to the national playoffs. Meanwhile, over at the Mabaruma Community ground action continued and the results show: Game-1 Matthew’s Ridge-1 vs Santa Rosa-0 Keanu Williams-48th Game-2 Final Matthew’s Ridge-1 vs Hosororo-2 Hosororo Scorer Shem Romascindo-21st and 25th Matthew’s Ridge Scorer Keanu Williams-41st

Neither team were able to get the better of each other in the second half which meant that the scores remained the same in favour of Paradise. In not so favourable conditions as the west side, Cougars, playing with nine men, showed their superiority over newcomers Young Strikers by scoring one goal in each half, both off the boot of Dwaine Alleyne to deny their opponents. Alleyne was on target in the 16th and 39th minutes as the match was played for only 70 minutes due to persistent rain. Alleyne’s

Daniel Nicholson and Shaqueel DeHarte - Paradise Invaders FC effort was enough to secure victory in a fiercely contested clash. Matches are slated to continue this weekend, on Sunday at the Paradise ground from 15:30hrs,

Hopetown United Rangers will oppose Mahaicony Thunder Hawks, while from the same time at Burnham Park, Cougars will match skills with Corriverton Links.

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Rain ruins Barbados reply after Guyana made 149 in final round Trinidad and Tobago retain title Kelon Anderson failed to carry on after a good start.

Sachin Singh looks back to see his stumps being disturbed. By Zaheer Mohamed in Trinidad and Tobago In association with V Net Communications, Mike’s Pharmacy, 4R, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre and Ramchand’s Auto Spares. Heavy rainfall that left the outfield at Gilbert Park waterlogged, prevented Barbados’ reply after Guyana scored 149 all out as the regional U17 50-over tournament concluded yesterday in Trinidad and Tobago. The other fixtures

between Trinidad and Tobago and Leeward Islands at Brian Lara Stadium and Windward Islands and Jamaica at the National Cricket Centre, were also ruined by rain which prevented an exciting finish to the tournament. Following the penultimate round, the host nation, Barbados, Leeward Islands, Windward Islands and Guyana were still in with a chance, but Trinidad and Tobago retained the title after the spoilt final round. Guyana were asked to bat at Gilbert Park and Alex

Algoo and Sachin Singh put on 26 for the opening stand before Algoo was caught off Ramon Simmons for nine after driving his previous ball to the long on boundary. Sinclair was then removed by Matthew Forde without scoring as Guyana lost their second wicket with the score on 27. Singh and Anderson then added 41 for the third wicket with sensible batting on a difficult pitch. The pair rotated the strike nicely with nudges and pushes until Singh played back to a good length ball from spinner

Rikeem Headley (1-25) and was bowled for 29 off 70 balls. Anderson started off slowly but just as he was getting into his stride, moved down the pitch a bit too early and was stumped off Indal Persaud (1-17) for 25 off 70 balls, leaving the score at 87-4. The Guyanese found boundaries hard to come by on the heavy outfield, but Kevin Christian steered Simmons to third man for a couple, while Nedd drove Forde to mid-off and steered him to the third-man region for a few more.

But in an attempt to step up the scoring rate, Christian played across the line attempting a big hit and was bowled by Simmons for 25 in the 45th over; he faced 66 balls. Nedd struck Forde over cover for four before hitting Simmons to cover to depart for 23 off 47 balls as they Guyanese once again failed to carry on after getting decent starts. Gevon Schultz (03) and Kevin Umroa (03) departed shortly after before Reaz Khan was run out for two. Pradesh Balkishun, batting

at number nine, was caught off the last ball of the innings for eight. The Guyanese only managed two boundaries in their innings as Forde captured 4-34 and Simmons 3-44; Barbados claimed 0.7 fast bowling points. A heavy down pour then caused the game to be abandoned. Trinidad and Tobago who were set to chase 216, finished on 19.8 points, while Barbados ended on 15.3 followed by Windward Islands 14.5, Leeward Islands 13.4, Guyana 13.3 and Jamaica 1.3.

National Table Tennis team off to 59th Senior Caribbean Championships in Cuba G u y a n a ’s N a t i o n a l Senior women and men’s Table Tennis Team left Guyana and the USA on Monday Enroute to Havana, Cuba to participate in the 59 Senior Caribbean Championships scheduled for the 18 to 24 July at the “The Sports City Coliseum”, La Habana, Cuba. The men’s team of national men’s champion Christopher Franklin, Nigel Bryan, Joel Alleyne and women’s player Natalie Cummings departed Guyana on a Copa airlines flight to join Shemar Britton, Trenace Lowe, Chelsea Edghill, Priscilla Greaves, Dianne Chance (Team M a n a g e r a n d Ve t e r a n women’s Player), George Nicholas and Cardo Williams (Men’s veteran) who departed through the USA Jet Blue and United Airlines. th

th

th

Under-21 Women’s Singles Chelsea Edghill and Priscilla Greaves, the Caribbean Junior girls bronze medalist coming off a one month training stint in China, will contest the women’s Under-21 category. Under-21 Men’s Singles Shemar Britton, Caribbean men’s Under-21 Bronze medalist 2017, will lead Guyana’s charge in the men’s Under-21 category. Britton is coming off a campaign in the USA where he won the Asian American C u l t u r e Ta b l e Te n n i s championships, AACTT Open Under-24 category on the 9 of July 2017 in Flushing, New York. The team members arrived in Havana at 1:20 am yesterday where they start Guyana’s medal quest in the team events. Overall 52 men and 44 th

Some of the Guyana Team members (from right) Chelsea Edghill, Nigel Bryan, Natalie Cummings, Joel Alleyne, Trenace Lowe and Christopher Franklin. women will compete in Havana representing 13 associations: Aruba, Barbados, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, French Guiana, Guyana, Jamaica, Martinique, Puerto Rico, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia plus Trinidad and Tobago. A total of 10 events will be held: Men’s Team, Women’s Team, Men’s

Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, Under 21 Men’s Singles, Under 21 Women’s Singles, Over 45 Men’s Singles. It is the 59th time that the tournament has been staged. Team seeding Based on the ranking of the teams Guyana Men’s team are grouped with the Dominica Republic and

Puerto Rico in Group two in a tough assignment, with two of the top teams in the region. The Women’s team are grouped with Martinique leading group three. Play will commence from 9:00am with three sessions daily. The Caribbean championships is a signature tournament on the GTTA’s

and regional calendar of events, since it forms the platform for regional table tennis supremacy and allows the association to lobby for international support among other benefits. This competition also serves as one of our building blocks for the 2018 Commonwealth games and beyond. The competition has taken on greater importance given the international federation assigning the competition as a qualification event and the awarding of world ranking points to the participating players in the Caribbean which is critical to our success in future given the introduction of global international competition structure in addition implementation of scholarship training awards to the top performing players.

Wednesday July 19, 2017

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Sir Garfield Sobers International Schools tourney

St Joseph’s High and School of the Nations lose again Despite the dodgy weather the 31st Annual Sir Garfield Sobers International School’s 40over cricket tournament continued in Barbados on Monday and gloomy conditions was similar to the performances of Guyanese Schools, St Joseph’s High School and School of the Nations, who both suffered fifth round defeats. With just two rounds remaining and with St Vincent School along with Barbadian schools Foundation and Lodge winning every game so far and Bryanston still unbeaten, it’s no longer possible for either of the Georgetown Educational institutions to reach the July 23 Final at the Mecca Kensington Oval. In 2002, East Bank’s Covent Garden Secondary, led by former Guyana U-19 batsman Zaheer Saffie, became the first school from Guyana to participate in the most popular schools cricket tournament in the world but no Guyanese school have ever won the coveted title. School of the Nation got closest to the title in 2008 when they finished third but flattered to deceive the next year when they arrived in Barbados with a squad including wicketkeeper Dexter Solomon, Berbice batsman Jamali Odle and off-spinner Ricardo Devers, who had represented Guyana in the Regional Under-17 tournament in Trinidad in December 2008. Former Guyana Under-15 players Toralva Scipio, Kwame Cross, Jahron Byron and Kevin Fredericks are also in the side. On Monday at the Friendship ground, Bolton School from the United Kingdom registered an emphatic seven-wicket victory over School of the Nations after bowling out the Guyanese for 127 in 28.4 overs and galloping to 131-3 in just 16 overs. Mark Ramsammy has been his team’s most

consistent batsman in this tournament and looking good on 38 but again failed to build on a good start, while Mark Baptiste 21, Suresh Jainarine 17 and Akash Singh 12, were the only other batsmen to reach double figures. Tjase Pindoria (6-30) and William Lord (2-27) did the damage for Bolton. Joe Ball (51), Harry Bevan (29 not out) and Daniel Southworth (23) saw their school to an easy win. At the Briar Hall ground, Foundation School beat St Joseph’s High school by seven wickets after they were dismissed for 144 in 27 overs. Jeremiah Scott (42) and Quentin Sampson (25) again wasted solid foundations, while Dudi O’Selmo 19 and David Marshall 12 provided token resistance as Rondre Yearwood 3-15, Shakeem John-Ruck 3-27, Joshua Corbin 2-22 were the main wicket takers. Foundation in reply reached 147-3 in 24 overs with Joshua Corbin 55 not out, Glennico King 51 and Ramar Newton 10 not out getting the Bajans over the line. At the Paragon ground Oakville Cricket Academy of Canada beat Dominica Schools by six wickets in a match reduced to 34 overs. Dominica Schools were bundled out for 107 in 32 overs as Kerwin Dupigny 21, Malakai Xavier 20 and Gamaliel Ophar 20 getting useful scores. Atishai Mansingh 2-10, Shemar Davis 2-12 and the Nandu siblings Matthew (2-17) and Marcus (2-22) the sons of former Guyana leg-spinner Berbician Arjune Nandu, got two wickets each. Guyanese David Dick had one wicket and did not bat as Oakville made 109-4 in 26 overs. The 17-year-old Jamaican Bryan Brown followed up scores of 107, 23 and 60 with a commanding unbeaten 61 and remains the only batsman to score a century in this year’s tournament.

Browne got support from Matthew Nandu 20 and Kerwin Dupigny 2-16. The St Joseph’s High pair of Timothy McAlmont (50) and Quinton Sampson (55) along with School of the Nations Jerimiah Scott (72) and Oakville Cricket

Academy’s David Dick (60) are the only Guyanese to score half-centuries, while Ramsammy (113 runs) has been the only Guyana to claim a five-wicket haul and is among the tournaments leading all-rounders. (Sean Devers)

Byran Brown

Mark Ramsammy

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Wednesday July 19, 2017

Super Bet supports 11th running of the Guyana Cup at Rising Sun Turf Club

Promotional Manager of the Guyana Cup, Roy Jafarally (left) receives sponsorship from Operations Manager Srikant Kissoonsingh of Super Bet.

Super Bet has joined those business entities stepping forward to ensure the Jumbo Jet Business Enterprise and Stables 11th running of the Mega Guyana Cup Meeting on August 13th at the Rising Sun Turf Club on the West Coast of Berbice starting at 11:30am is a resounding success it usually is. Guyana Operations Manager of Super Bet, Mr.

Srikant Kissoonsingh this week handed over their contribution to Promotional Manager of the Guyana Cup, Roy Jafarally. Super Bet joins ISG Industrial Supplies of Guyana Inc. as sponsors on board so far. Coordinator Junior ‘Jumbo Jet’ Mohammed last week announced the staging of the event, promising the usual choc-full of entertainment and

excitement based on the fact that most of the top racehorses in the country will be entered to battle for the attractive cash prizes on offer along with the many side attractions always added to the activity. The racing programme has the B Class event the main attraction. This race is open to all imported and Guyana Bred B class horses and covers a distance of 2000m for a whopping $2M for the winner with second collecting $1M, third $500,000, fourth $250,000 and fifth $125,000. There is the E & lower 1500m race for all imported and Guyana Bred 3 years and up and those rated E class and lower for a sumptuous $1.2M winner’s purse.

The G & Lower Guyana and West Indies Bred racehorses cover 1500m with the winner carting off $700,000, the H3 & lower race for Guyana and West Indies bred horses has a $400,000 pay day over a distance of 1100m, the 2 years old Guyana Bred horses will run over a similar 11 0 0 m d i s t a n c e w i t h $350,000 the purse on offer for the winner, while 3 year old Guyana bred and I1 & Lower class racehorses will look to cash in on the $300,000 first prize over 1100m. The J2 & K & Lower class will be battling for a $250,000 purse, while the L& Lower non-winners will collide for a $200,000 winners take, both events also over 1100m.

RHTY&SC and Rossignol Meat Processors join hands to assist Cricket Clubs

Rossignol Administrative Manager Regina LowKoon hands over the sponsorship in front of two staffers to RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster. Several Cricket Clubs in the ancient county of Berbice would receive assistance in the form of cricket balls from a sponsorship deal between the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, and the Suriname owned Rossignol Meat Processors. The Church Street, Georgetown based Company on Saturday last handed over a cheque for $100,000 (one hundred thousand dollars) to the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, Patron’s Outreach Programme. The donation would be used by the eight cricket teams of Guyana’s leading

youth and sports organisation to assist their peers in other clubs. The eight cricket teams Farfan & Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Females, Gizmos & Gadgets Under-21 and First Division teams have together won 54 major cricket championships since 1992 including three national championships. L o n g s e r v i n g Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that over the years the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club has been very passionate about (Continued on page 31)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday July 19, 2017

Fitness Paradise Gym Expo 2017

Trophy Stall hands over main trophy Continuing their rich tradition of support for athletes’ development across the board, Trophy Stall has once again stepped on board the Fitness Paradise Gym Expo train with the donation of the Miss Gym Expo Personality overall winner trophy. Ye s t e r d a y a t t h e i r Bourda Street location, Manager Ms. Devi Sunich handed over the trophy to Manager of Fitness Paradise Gym, Donald Sinclair in the presence of one of the Miss Gym Expo Personality competitors, Ms Angelica Holder. Sunich expressed delight at being able to once again contribute to the event and wished each participant success. Sinclair in response thanked Sunich and Trophy Stall for their continued commitment to athletes’ development.

Meanwhile, this year’s Fitness Paradise Gym Expo is an event with a difference. Different from the traditional format of the ladies’ events, the ladies segment is in 2 stages. Stage One had an intelligence test, a cardio and an endurance challenge and that was completed on Sunday July 2 at Fitness Paradise Gym. The ladies did a written test then challenged themselves in skipping, abdominal crunches and pushups. This Sunday, July 23 at the Theatre Guild Playhouse in Kingston from 19:00hrs, the 5 ladies will do the Part Two – an Interview plus the Miss Expo Best Legs to determine the Overall Miss Gym Expo P e r s o n a l i t y w i n n e r. According to Sinclair, the idea is that the event must produce ladies who are in great shape and who can also be ambassadors of the sport,

England hold nerve in thriller to make final

Sarah Taylor helped England nudge ahead early in their chase © Getty Images ESPNcricinfo - England progressed to their fifth Women’s Cricket World Cup final but not before South Africa gave them a mighty scare in Bristol. England nearly paid the price for switching off. A cruise when Sarah Taylor and Heather Knight were at the crease turned into a full-blown collapse when they lost three wickets - one of those to a brilliant run-out and another to a rank full toss - in the space of eleven deliveries. At 149 for 5, chasing 219, it was game on. But England dug deep to find a way out. Fran Wilson and Jenny Gunn exhibited England’s batting depth to take them within six runs of victory. Wilson showed tremendous guts - none more than her scoop to a full ball over short third man off Shabnim Ismail with England needing 40 off 38 to make 30, before falling in

the 48th over. It should have been easily from there on, but pressure can do strange things. South Africa were taking every step to make Nelson Mandela Day a memorable one. The game hinged on a knife’s edge as it went into the final over, off which England needed three. Ismail, entrusted with the responsibility of trying to polish off the last three wickets, put down a sharp chance off the first ball to reprieve Gunn. Nerves were jangling. Then with two needed off four, she foxed Laura Marsh with a slower ball. The England players were on tenterhooks now. South Africa needed two wickets. Anya Shrubsole, hardly needed to bat in the tournament, was on strike. She saw width and flayed it through point to bring up the winning runs, runs that were (Continued on page 31)

able to speak intelligently about their training experiences. A separate event is the Miss Bikini that will also see five (5) females participating. The males will compete in the Mr. Expo Hot Body a n d t h e M r. E x p o Bodybuilding Classic. Ms Holder, who will be making her debut on stage, expressed confidence in doing well, “I will give a good fight.” She posited.

Ms. Devi Sunich hands over the Miss Gym Expo Personality overall winner trophy to Donald Sinclair in the presence of athlete, Ms Angelica Holder.

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t r o Sp Rain ruins Barbados reply after Guyana made 149 in final round Trinidad and Tobago retain title

The edge of the boundary marking following the rain. (Zaheer Mohamed photos)

Umpires, Guyanese Javed Persaud (left) and Zahid Bassarath of T&T making an inspection after which play was called off.

Digicel Schools Football Championship

Waramadong thrash Paruima 6-0 -will now play Bartica in Regional final

The victorious Waramadong team and Head Coach pose for a photo op following their win over Paruima. Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210