Friday July 28, 2017
The GT&T US$5M shares story continues to grow legs DEAR EDITOR, On reading your Thursday, July 27, 2017, lead story, “Cabinet to decide way forward on outstanding US$5M for GTT shares,” I noticed your writer made no mention of State Minister Joe Harmon’s 2016 trip to China, with an entourage. The entourage, which reportedly included businessman, B.K. Tiwarie, went to collect the same outstanding US$5M owed government for the GT&T shares bought by a Chinese firm in 2012. It would have also been helpful if Kaieteur News could have gotten the government to tell the nation how much the Chinese firm has collected in annual dividends so far from GT&T. Nevertheless, for the benefit of readers, let us recap that Minister Harmon left Guyana in March 2016 on a visit to collect on the US$5M in GT&T shares, but the fortuitously visit morphed into an attempt at attracting Chinese investors to Guyana. There was even a photoop of Minister Harmon aboard a Chinese plane and a subsequent attempted press briefing clarification of the photoop on his return to Guyana. But once Kaieteur News
made public the January 19, 2016 appointment of Tiwarie as a Business Advisor to the Coalition Government, President David Granger quickly moved to rescind the appointment. “He is not performing any functions and that is why the position is rescinded. He is not required to perform any business function. We have a Minister of Business, and as far as I am concerned, the Minister is quite capable and competent, and he has not asked me for any assistance, and I personally rescinded Mr Tiwarie’s appointment.” (I personally rescinded Mr Tiwarie’s appointment – President Granger, KN, April 01, 2016). In a Presidency Ministry press release carried by Stabroek News on April 1, 2016, the ministry reported Minister Harmon ‘returned from an official trip to the People’s Republic of China. The purpose of the visit was to engage in discussions with regard to the payment of the US$5 million balance owed for the purchase of 20 percent of Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) shares by Chinese company, Datang Telecom Technology and Industry
Group from NICIL in 2012’. (Harmon’s China visit was in relation to GT&T shares payment – Ministry of the Presidency’). In his defence, Minister Harmon held out that his decision to appoint Tiwarie as a Ministerial Advisor on Business Development was above board and was a mere ‘honorific title’. On his way back from China, he stopped over in New York and told Kaieteur News the facts of the matter were being twisted. In fact, he firmly believed that the criticisms, which have since ensued regarding the matter, were all part of a wicked plot to jeopardize his political career. He then reiterated that he will deal with this matter specifically at a media briefing very soon. “I will do a full presser on the matter when I return.” In an April 14, 2016 news article by Demerara Waves, “Harmon explains his presence aboard a jet in China; announces new majority investor in Bai Shan Lin,” Minister Harmon spoke at length on possible investments by Chinese companies and precious little on the status of the GT&T shares recovery attempt. Following a back and Continued on page 6
City Hall meeting with Georgetowners to improve relationships DEAR EDITOR, On, Wednesday July 26, the Council met with 40 leaders of local community groups operating in the City and held discussions on the extant conditions of local neighbourhoods and approaches needed to improve the quality of life for citizens in the local context. The purpose of the meeting was to build necessary and enduring relationships between local communities and the Council. The meeting was chaired by Town Clerk Royston King in an environment of cordiality, understanding and trust. Town Clerk King explained that citizens are the real guardians of local communities and that all residents of local communities have the right and responsibility to secure the integrity of those communities at the meeting the Town Clerk said the Council is committed to; 1) Working with local communities in bottom up approach to involve communities in the work programme of the Council. 2) Strengthen the capacity of community groups to
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participate in the decision making process of the Council through education, awareness programmes; workshops, conferences and training programmes which would cater to the specific needs of community groups. 3) Help leaders to prepare project proposals and requests for financial assistance from Council and other institutions. 4) Assist community leaders to identify and mobilize resources as no nonprofit groups to advance the interests of local communities.
5) To develop a structured approach to facilitate information sharing and feedback. The Council is pleased that many community groups have already initiated programmes to secure the integrity of local communities. The Mayor and City Council wishes to encourage citizens to organize themselves into groups to mobilize resources to help improve the conditions of local neighbourhoods and restore Georgetown to its former glory. Debra Lewis Public Relations Officer
Community policing is being sabotaged by the PPP DEAR EDITOR, Over the past two months or so, lots of talks have been going on about the security sector and its way forward or how it is being managed. Anyway, I will surely have my say about those in follow up missives. But let me deal with some comments that are circulating on social media and the print media regarding the former PPP Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Clement Rohee, MP, in recent times as to community policing groups in Guyana. This MP should very well know by now that he failed this country tremendously when he was Minister of Home Affairs. Everything he did had his stamp and involvement of politics in all sector. He did all this to have everything in
the palms of the PPP and to take advantage of situations. When this MP, who was a former Minister started to empower community policing it was for his party’s gains and support. I do believe that 90% of the CPG groups under this man watch were all PPP supporters and members. Almost all of the policing groups were taking directives from him or his PPP comrades. They were instructed as to who should be arrested, sent to the police and make their life miserable. Those were people that are supporters of the then opposition. Members of the CPGs were very active during the PPP time because of the political affiliations to the PPP. Members of CPGs were seen cleaning Freedom House
and its environs at Bath and I know it happens all over the country. CPG members were used to doing political work, plastering of posters, putting up banners, setting up flags and also CPGs vehicles being used to transport people to their (PPP) village meetings and rallies and did announcements. I can recall that this MP who was then Minister in charge of security had dealt with many matters by himself rather than to allow the police to deal with the matters. Maybe, if he is to reply he would ask me to name a few, well here is one name that comes to mind - Mr. Paul Slowe. Does this ring a bell, Mr. Rohee? CPGs were active then because of politics in favour of PPP; they practiced such politics. Groups were seen day and Continued on page 6
This man wants to bring back massa days DEAR EDITOR, Mr Sahadeo Bates letter titled “Jagdeo was wrongly advised on the construction of Skeldon factory” which appeared in the July 24, 2017 Kaieteur News stirred my interest as I read it. Mr Bates, in his letter, advised that they were more suitable contractors to build the new Skeldon factory. It seems that the author has asymmetric information on this matter. From what is known, two (2) contractors submitted proposals to undertake the construction of Skeldon. The two (2) bids were evaluated by the project’s supervising firm, then UKbased Booker Tate Limited (BTL), and it was they who recommended to GuySuCo and the Government the con-
tractor. Undoubtedly, capacity, capability, experience, among the other factors would have been taken into consideration. Moreover, BTL was on the project site during the construction of the factory and overlooked every facet of the project. The Company even went as far as having its personnel inspect equipment destined for Skeldon prior to its shipment from the several reputable sugar equipment manufactures in Europe, Africa and Asia, among the other places. Ultimately it is BTL which is wholly and solely answerable for the shortcomings of Skeldon. Maybe its local henchman may be able to shed some light on what really transpired.
Mr Bates goes on speaking about the situation with respect to the Wales workers and decries the benefits the workers obtain. The author maybe is a stranger to the truth. Those benefits he listed in a disparaging manner were obtained after our fore parents waged dogged struggles and they were not given willingly and freely by the then owner-class. Furthermore, realistically, does Mr Bates expect workers to wake up in the wee hours of the morning and walk or ride to work several miles into the cultivation. Massa days have long left our shores but it seems Mr Bates is joining the small bandwagon who wish to bring those terrible times Continued on page 6
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Community policing is being sabotaged... On the issue of addressing crime and... From page 5 night doing what they were told to do or mandated to do by Rohee and PPP. What happens all of a sudden that makes the CPGs forget their role in communities? Today CPG members, esp. supporters of the PPP have been warned not to be active by the leadership of the party (PPP) at both the national and regional level. They were told that if they continue doing what is their mandate they will make the government and Public Security Ministry looks good. They were warned not to get involved in protecting their communities and people, although resources are available. They were told to sit back and allow petty crimes to rock their villages because the police can’t be all over at the same time. I can recall when this government took office in 2015 in Region 5, CPGs were on top of things. In villages of Bath, Woodley Park, Bush Lot, Blairmont, Rosignol, Cotton Tree, S h i e l d s t o w n , Experiment\Hope, CPG members use to march the streets as usual in their uniform and
patrolling in the nights. But all of a sudden those activities were halted by most of the groups because of political warnings and exploitative conspiracies by the PPP. Groups are hardly functioning in those areas. Why? Because the PPP activists on the ground are driving fear into the people and making all sort of problems in ensuring that the groups do not function. It is not this government or Minister of Public Security that does not want CPGs to function but it is Mr. Rohee and his PPP cabals that don’t want to see the groups functioning. The entire PPP does not want to see Guyana moving positively forward. They are doing everything to cripple this nation because of their selfish ways, their determination to make Guyana ungovernable and to ensure that there is no proper security in place for the nation. Mr. Rohee, you and the PPP had 23 years to better the system but no, you and your cabals did nothing to better our land. Mr. Rohee has failed as a Minister that was in charge of policing and secu-
rity in our land. Those who were protected were mostly their close family, relatives, friends, associates, allies and hardcore supporters. CPGs need to stop taking political directives and start regrouping for the betterment of their communities and our country. CPGs must get their act together and do what’s best for our communities. I call on those in charge to oversee the functioning of CPGs to move around in the fields and see that the groups are reorganised and better able to serve the people of the various communities. Mr. Rohee and his PPP cabals need to stop taking advantage of their supporters and start thinking of Guyana as we are moving forward. Rohee and his cabals need to stop politicizing people’s lives and welfare because the PPP is no good and only want to destroy our nation. Stop the fighting PPP and let’s start uniting for a better Guyana under the APNU+AFC government. Abel Seetaram APNU+AFC Regional Councillor Region 5
From page 4 in the above context. President David Granger to his credit, after taking office has demonstrated leadership on the need for prison reform and the need for human treatment of incarcerated citizens. He used the instrument of “Presidential Pardon” to release offenders of minor crimes. This policy became a controversial issue with the opposition PPP leading the charge. In the process they accused the President of implementing a policy that is soft on criminals. For the opposition, political mileage was the name of the game. This for them was more important than addressing the problem of overcrowding in the prisons, and giving young male offenders and women, who were convicted on minor offences, a second chance. The government’s intention to initiate new approaches in dealing with offenders was not seen by the PPP as an enlightened policy. They deliberately set about to cause hysteria by taking advantage of the citizens’ fear. The opposition propaganda resonated far beyond
The GT&T US$5M shares story continues to grow legs From page 5 forth between government and Opposition officials as to whether the money was written off or paid off, the matter fell into Resources Minister Raphel Trotman’s lap, before winding up on NICIL Chairman Horace James’ desk. So, here we are, today, reading of an attempt by the same Chinese company to pay zero, then US$1M, then US$2M to settle the matter. This is one of those news stories that defies logic and keeps growing legs as it runs all over the place in search of a sanctuary of escape from basic facts being found out. Like so many other Guyanese, I just don’t get the logic, for example, of any government-foreign company shares buying agreement that
would have a stipulation that calls for any future disagreement to be settled in a court in London. It was as if the Chinese company deliberately expected a disagreement, but that faux pas was only made worse when Minister Harmon, and not the Minister of Business, made a trip related a business agreement and came back empty handed. It later shocked us when Minister Harmon described the trip as ‘successful’. What also caught observant readers’ interest was the fact that, following the China trip, the government reached aUS$5.7M settlement with Tiwarie over a lawsuit brought by Tiwarie against the then PPP government for US$324,677 for work being done on the Haags Bosch
project, despite letters and invoices being submitted. BK had reportedly filed claims against the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development for US$8M for breaches in the contract. (“Gov’t pays BK US$5.7M in out-of-court settlement for Haags Bosch,” KN, July 14, 2016). Editor, if the PPP government owed Tiwarie US$324,677, can the Coalition Government please tell your ardent readers and all curious and concerned Guyanese how the Coalition Government reached a settlement of US$5.7M, which is just US$700,000 short of the US$5M in GT&T shares Minister Harmon went to China, reportedly with Tiwarie in tow, to collect? Like I said before, this
GT&T shares news story defies logic as it continues to grow legs, and it would do the government well to come ‘straight and full’, with ‘no chinksin’ on this matter, because as with other red flag issues in the last two years, this government i s n o t only giving itself a bad name, but giving an angry and power hungry Opposition enough rope to hang government with in full view of a corruption-wary, transparency-hungry public. This issue is not petty and personal; it is political and practical! The downfall of the PPP was not that it was merely corrupt or lack transparency and accountability, but it deliberately and arrogantly refused to heed public calls for same. Emile Mervin
its own constituency. The same tactic was used when the President expressed his opinion that he wanted to see the police apprehending offenders, rather than shooting and killing them.The opposition and government detractors wasted no time and propagandized that the President was encouraging crime and criminals and, in doing so, make them feel they can act with impunity. These detractors chose to ignore the sound logic and thinking behind the President‘s position, that is, a dead man is of no help to the police and security forces in their job of defeating crime and dismantling the criminal enterprise. It is clear that the opposition PPP and its supporters’ activism were directed against the use of intelligence gathering as an effective tool in the Guyana Police Force’s crime fighting apparatus. We must ask ourselves why this is so? I wish to focus here on the criticisms in the media that the government did nothing to implement these commendations of the COI into the2016 prison riot that resulted in 15 inmates being burnt to death in their cells. Those – as is the case of the political opposition - who argue that the government did nothing are merely engaged in propagandizing a ridiculous position or, they are unaware of what the government has done in terms of implementing recommendations from the COI. An objective criticism would be that the regime was unable or failed to implement significant aspects of the COI recommendations. But, in so far as Guyana is concerned, every issue is a zero sum game, with the intention to make political mileage or to achieve public recognition, even if to do so means taking advantage of the masses vulnerability on this sensitive matter of crime. In a cynical way we short change ourselves as a nation by our failure to separate polemics from clinical examination of social/economic is-
sues. The timely intervention which was made by the Chairman, of the prison COI (SN Sunday, July 16.2017) add some balance to the debate on the issue of responsibility. Mr. Justice James Patterson said that neither the President nor the Minister of Public Security should be blamed for the prison riot that resulted in the destruction of the Camp Street jail. He also made the point that it is unfair to accuse the government of not putting in place the COI recommendations, since many are not possible in the short and medium term, bearing in mind limited resources, both institutional and financial. Mr. Henry Jeffery also in his column, “Future Notes” published in the Stabroek News, (July 19. 2017) captioned, “Class, ethnicity and jail” made an excellent contribution to the debate which I recommend to readers. My engagement of the critics should not be seen to mean that I believe the APNU+AFC government has done everything in its power to make good on the COI. It is my view that sufficient attention and resources were not dispensed to deal with the potential prison crisis which the COI was intended to prevent. I end by posing this question to readers in the hope that they will answer to themselves, truthfully. Would the country have accepted the government implementing a policy which would have allowed the same categories and numbers of inmates to get early release, self or reduced bail to address the overcrowding in the prison, if it was not burnt down? My own judgement is that the President and government would have come under serious, public pressure and possibly street demonstrations similar to the parking meter protest. To the extent that the society accepts the measures stated above, it is only because people are convinced that given the situation it is almost impossible to do otherwise. Tacuma Ogunseye
This man wants to bring back massa days From page 5 back. The point about persons in the US travelling many miles to work cannot be compared with the situation of Wales; it is chalk to cheese. Unlike in the US, the sugar workers do not travel to work in air conditioned cars, buses or trains but in lorries exposed to the elements and through dams, often muddy, to reach to work. At times the situation does not even allow lorries to reach the worksite and workers either are ferried by punts
or in some instances walk distances to the worksite. A worker after going through that harassment is exhausted and tired by the time they reach to work and then they are expected to cut several tonnes of canes loading it by fetching it on their heads. And after all of that face a similar journey back home when they must confront the excruciating traffic. Mr Bates if the shoe were on the other foot, maybe your tune would change.
I wonder if Mr Bates would want to join a cane cutting gang. Mr Bates, from my knowledge, labour in the sugar industry is not glamorous as you seem to paint, but it’s hard, difficult and challenging exposed to the scorching sun or the drenching rain. Those difficulties have become even graver as workers these days face an uncaring management and government. Patricia Persaud
Friday July 28, 2017
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Wandering charge is obnoxious - RCC CEO The Rights of the Child Commission [RCC] is continuing its call for the charge of wandering to be abolished. Chief Executive Officer [CEO] of the Commission, Amarnauth Panday, said of the wandering charge, “It is an obnoxious charge and it should be abolished forthwith.” “We have made this position known for many years and we know that the Draft Juvenile Justice Bill, which will be tabled in Parliament, imminently will abolish the charge of wandering.” According to Panday, the wandering charge is essentially one that stems from a child being the victim of an abusive and neglectful environment. “This is what this charge usually is and [children] are criminalised and incarcerated coming from such a situation,” said Panday. But the RCC has not been alone in this call to swiftly abolish the wandering charge. It was just last year that the Women and Gender Equality Commission amplified its concerns on this matter.
- should be repealed forthwith
Rights of the Child CEO, Mr. Amarnauth Panday Statistics have shown that the majority of children who are housed at the New Opportunity Corps [NOC] in Region Two are there for wandering. According to Women and Gender Equality Commissioner, Ms. Nicole Cole, a survey that was conducted found that about 70 per cent of the residents of NOC are there for wandering. NOC is said to be a juvenile facility that offers psychosocial support to youths in order to help them improve their self-esteem and self-
worth in preparation for their return to society. Cole pointed out that the Juvenile Justice Bill which is slated to be tabled in the National Assembly is supposed to have a provision to ensure that juveniles should no longer be charged with wandering. According to Cole, who doubles as a Commissioner on the Rights of the Child Commission, a research conducted by the latter Commission into NOC found that many girls who are charged with wandering are sent there. “Children are actually picked up while wandering and are not afforded an opportunity to have legal counsel,” said Cole as she emphasised that “this is also a contentious issue to which the Rights of the Child Commission has been providing tremendous support via collaboration with the Guyana Legal Aid service.” Wandering as a charge, Cole emphasised, has done much damage to those who
are deemed “children in difficult circumstances.” But according to Cole, “children in difficult circumstances” require a wide range of support including psychosocial, economic and social services. These children, she firmly ascertained, do not deserve to be charged and punished. The Juvenile Justice Bill, according to Cole, contains a crucial provision which mandates that “any child that will be institutionalised should have a psychological evaluation.” That is not being done currently, Cole said. Sandra Hooper, who also holds a place on the Women and Gender Equality Commission and the Rights of the Child Commission, has also publicly spoken of plans by the two Commissions to write to the office of the Director of Prosecution [DPP] requesting that the charge of wandering be taken off of the statutes so as to ensure that children are never sent to the NOC for such an offence.
Economy still in ‘readjusting mode’ - Finance Minister In recent times, several businesses have been maintaining the cry that the economy is down. But putting this “complaint” into perspective was Finance Minister, Winston Jordan. In an interview with the media, Jordan said, what that statement really means is that the desired spending is not taking place. He said, “But if we look at the last numbers which were put out by Bank of Guyana, we would see that consumer spending has gone up. The economy is still in that mode where people are readjusting to the new realities of it and so while doing that, people may spend more wisely or hold some of their money.” The economist said that another part of the equation is that concessions are not being given out in a willynilly fashion anymore. He
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan said that there is a more microscopic look at how these are given out. But once the economy gets going, the Finance Minister said one can be assured it will be on a more sustainable footing. He said that even though there might have been significant spending in the last 23 years, if it had been any good, then the economy would have been on a more sure footing than it is today.
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood
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Reporter Travis Chase’s credibility questioned The credibility of the news provided by popular television news anchor, Travis Chase, was up for questioning yesterday. He was called to the stand to testify in the Commission of Inquiry, (COI) into the plot to assassinate President David Granger. Chase, a news anchor and Editor at HGPTV Nightly news had interviewed the man who filed the report, Andriff Gillard. The plot had detailed a bounty of $7M was offered to kill President Granger some time in 2015. Gillard had claimed that he went to borrow $6M from a businessman, said to be gold miner. Instead, the businessman offered $7M. But the credibility of his story has been up for debate by some top ranking officials of the Guyana Police Force. In his testimony before the Commission recently, Police Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, noted that Gillard had been “shifty” with the information he provided to investigating ranks. As a result, a recommendation was made for Gillard to be charged for supplying the police with false information. Yesterday, the popular television reporter’s credibility was also a source for questioning by Attorneys attached to the Commission. The commission is intended to investigate the persons, places, times, circum-
…as COI into plot to assassinate President continues
Travis Chase details to the COI his involvement in the matter; a plot to kill the President stances and events by, and through which, allegations and reports were made of a plan to assassinate him. Chase took the stand around noon and detailed to the commission his involvement in the matter. His report led to the arrest of persons involved in an alleged plot to kill the President. He faced a slew of questions from retired Chief Justice (Ag) Ian Chang and Attorney- at- law, Christopher Ram. Chase’s lawyer, Selwyn Pieters was also present.
The questions posed by retired Chief Justice Chang ranged from whether Chase had “an axe to grind” with members of the Guyana Police Force to whether he was ever convicted for any crimes before. In response, Chase said that he was convicted before but he had no axe to grind with the police. He said that he has good working relations with ranks of the GPF, some of whom he referred to as “contacts.” Chase told the commission that on numerous occasions, the police would contact him for information on those persons that may be of interest to them, such as Sean Hinds and Barry Dataram. While on the stand, the witness revealed that as a result of his access to these persons, he found that he was being watched by the police. At one point, Chase said that police ranks staked out the HGPTV Nightly news headquarters because it was
believed that he was harbouring a wanted man there. In response to questions from the Commission, Chase said that he had reasons to believe that Gillard’s story was truthful. Given his experience as a reporter, the witness recalled that he had done some investigation to verify Gillard’s information before the matter could have been aired on the television newscast. Chase said, too, that based on his interaction with Gillard and what he knows of the investigations, he believes that the matter was the subject of a cover up by members of the Guyana Police Force. The News Anchor also read a statement detailing his involvement in the case to the commission. Chase said that Gillard had called and informed him that he was offered $6 million to shoot Mr. David Granger, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, during
one of his outreaches. “This was possibly before Granger had moved from his Durban Backlands home.” As a result, Chase said that he invited Mr. Gillard, to the studio to have these allegations recorded on camera. “Mr. Gillard made himself available on March 30, 2017 and the recording was done, in studio at HGP Nightly News. During the recording, the witness recalled that Gillard was offered money by one Nizam Khan to assassinate Mr. Granger. “Mr. Gillard stated to me that the police were not taking his complaint seriously.” After the video recording was made, Chase told the Commission that he contacted ranks of the Guyana Police Force, including head of the Presidential Guard, Mr. Brian Joseph, and Assistant Police commissioner and Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit, (SOCU) Sydney James.
He said that he later provided Joseph with a disc of the recording with Mr. Gillard. He said too that throughout the time, he was involved in interviewing with Gillard; he made attempts tried to engage the Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum on the matter but repeated calls to Blanhum went unanswered. He said that some time after Gillard informed that he was with the accused, Nizam Khan at the Criminal Investigations Department. “And that police want to place him, Gillard into the lock ups and that the accused was behaving in a disorderly manner upstairs at CID. I advised him to stay calm and comply with the police.” The witness said that on April 20, last, as part of his follow up, he enquired from Minister of State Joseph Harmon about the status of the matter. “The Minister confirmed the report and the ongoing investigation. I ran with the story that the police are investigating the alleged plot to assassinate the President, like all the other media houses except that I had exclusive footage of the complaint, parts of which I ran with over threenews cycle.” After the footage was aired on the news, Chase said that he was followed around on numerous occasions by police operatives. “I reported this to Assistant Commissioner Hicken because I was concerned for my safety at this point. Mr. Hicken told me to be careful and if I observe the vehicle (s) in question I should notify him immediately.” Some time later, Chase said he advised Mr. Gillard to present himself at CID, Eve Leary again. “I followed him with the camera and interviewed him outside CID after which he presented himself to police there. At that interview Mr. Gillard spoke of the confrontation that took place with a cousin of the alleged accused, the conduct of the police at CID and how he was mistreated.” On June 10, 2017, Chase recalled that he contacted Mr. Gillard again and conducted a follow-up interview on the story to which he (Gillard) made the same allegation and accused the police of covering up the matter.
Friday July 28, 2017
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Where is the proof? Facing a string of criticisms about their worldwide operations, ExxonMobil has gone on the offensive. The oil company has announced that it has found another massive well which will provide Guyana with another 500 million barrels of oil. Guyanese are being asked to accept the latest fantastic find. But how do Guyanese know for sure that this discovery has been made? Are Guyanese petroleum experts on board the drilling platform? Have they confirmed the latest discovery? Or is this yet another case of Guyanese being asked to place absolute
trust in whatever the ExxonMobil propaganda machinery churns out? ExxonMobil is finding all of this oil in Guyana, yet it has decided not to go it alone when it comes to drilling. If all the wells are as good as Exxon claims it is, then why is Exxon sharing the risks. ExxonMobil is in a partnership with Hess and with a Chinese company, both of which have substantial shares in their Guyanese operations. Why does ExxonMobil not go into it alone? It is not as if it is broke. Ten years ago, Exxon Mobil made 36 billion dollars – US
dollars - in profits. So it is not as if the super company is short of capital. It can afford to finance the Guyana operations by itself. So just why if all of this oil is being found in Guyana’s waters, is Exxon in a joint investment with other companies? There has been a more spectacular announcement this past week which dwarfs what the announced new oil find by Exxon and company. Fareed Zakaria, on his weekly CNN programme said that by 2020, America is going to become a major oil exporting nation. So where does this put Guyana, considering that oil
production in the Stabroek bloc is due to commence in the same year. Why would a leading American company undercut American economic interests by looking to produce oil outside of America when one considers that the Trump Administration is placing America first and boost production at home. There is another fly in the ointment. We have not heard from CGX for a long time. One would have presumed that with the find made by Exxon, CGX which has concessions not far away from the Stabroek bloc, would have
Walter Rodney COI…WPA wants charges against Donald Rodney withdrawn The Working People’s Alliance (WPA) is asking that the charges and conviction recorded against Donald Rodney, the brother of deceased political activist Dr. Walter Rodney, be withdrawn. Executive Member of the party, Dr David Hinds, on Wednesday said that the decision to request the withdrawal of the charges and conviction came out of the party’s General Members and Supporters Meeting that was
held Sunday last. He said, “At our members’ meeting on Sunday we also discussed the question of the Rodney Commission of Inquiry. We were asked by the members to address specifically one question, as it relates to the situation of Donald Rodney who was charged for being in possession of the explosives that killed Dr. Rodney. We are requesting that those charges
be withdrawn and the party has mandated us to pursue that matter.” Rodney’s brother was convicted for being in possession of an explosive and was made to serve an 18month sentence. In November 2015, political activist Eusi Kwayana had called on the Attorney-General Basil Williams to quash the conviction of Donald Rodney. Kwayana had said that
Williams would be failing in his duty and his professional ethics if he does not move to quash the Donald Rodney’s mistrial and conviction. Meanwhile, a number of other issues consumed the meeting on Sunday. Following discussions, the party reaffirmed the party’s commitment to a multiracial solution to Guyana’s overarching problems in the interest of the security of all Continued on page 28
been stepping up its game in Guyana. We are not seeing that happen. So does CGX know something that Guyanese do not know? There is one thing that the Guyanese people are aware of. It is that despite the promise of an oil boom in 2020, the Minister of Finance is speaking about conservatism. That really should be conserving, since conservatism carries ideological connotations to which no PNCR- dominated regime will subscribe. The mistake that the APNU+AFC continues to make is that they believe that they are underestimating the strength of the company with which they are dealing. Exxon is no large company. It is stronger than most governments. It is a super company in its own right. Exxon has all the data, all
the facts and the best negotiating skills around. Who does Guyana have? Guyana, up to now, cannot publicly state who are its negotiators when dealing with Exxon. Yet it wants the public to accept all that Exxon is saying and which has not been verified by no local authority or any authority acting on behalf of the Guyanese people. It is time for the Guyana government to hire international specialists from the non-western world to negotiate with Exxon Mobil. If at this stage Guyana is accepting what Exxon says, it may end up having to accept whatever Exxon decides to pay in revenues in the future.
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=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Diaspora wants what locals don’t have and don’t get A young agronomist invaded a local bank a few weeks ago with his gang to rob it and was killed by security personnel. The details of his life revealed that he was earning $180,000 monthly. When the Council of the University of Guyana terminated my contract in January 2016, I was earning $182,000 after twenty-six consecutive years with no break. For the three universities I attended with 26 years of service I earned two thousand dollars more than this young man. I think if he went on to achieve 26 years of service, he certainly would have ended up earning more than $400,000. Yesu Persaud, a larger than life Guyanese icon, is a living witness. The local UN office needed a deputy to its foreign head. Mr. Persaud arranged
for me to meet the foreign head, Mr. Juan Larraburre in November 1992. I was interviewed by the gentleman and offered the
Frederick Kissoon job. On reflection I thought my contribution to Guyana’s future was at UG. I informed a much disappointed Yesu Persaud and Juan Larraburre that I would stay at UG. I stayed at UG, ended up earning a $182,000 for twenty-six
years and had my contract abruptly terminated. At the UG-sponsored diaspora forum, one of the speakers publicly stated that more systems and policies need to be in place before the diaspora could return and invest. Ask my wife; I screamed and she ran upstairs to see what was wrong with me. I was researching my files to find letters and UG Council documents of 2005 to reply to Mr. Ralph Ramkarran. I was ready to type when blackout came, this for the third consecutive day. 0ver the past two months, I heard the following comments from some of the journalists at Kaieteur News, “Freddie, wuh you doing here so early?” This was because I had to rush down in the morning at Kaieteur News to type my columns. Blackouts at Turkeyen where I live have become more consistent than when the PPP ruled Guyana. Blackouts come daily at Turkeyen and it is tormenting me. I am a daily columnist. I cannot work in such uncivilized conditions. I am in my mid sixties. I fought for my country’s freedom. I need to live peacefully at my age without this torment. Now I hear the folks at the diaspora conference want more to be done in Guyana before they can come back to invest. Can’t someone represent the interests of the locals at that conference? Can I please have an invitation to address the diaspora conference to describe for them how many of us who are
highly educated but we stayed and lived in Guyana under terrible conditions? My landline is 222-1615, 222-1616 and my mobile is 614-5927. My email is fredkissoon@yahoo.com. My address is Lot 47, Area Q, Turkeyen. Please call early so I can have time to research my stuff. I don’t need anything to eat. I will bring my own bottle of water. I quote from a previous column on my thoughts on this subject of diaspora and us, locals. It is captioned, “Arguments for the employment of local skills,” Saturday, August 27, 2016, “UG has problems sustaining its degree programmes in disciplines like History, English etc. With that reality where are
the opportunities for doing a Masters in any programme at UG? Guyanese from low income backgrounds, who hold a first degree from UG, migrate to the US, find employment hard to get, and they pursue higher education. I know many Guyanese who are doing low level jobs and have Masters. It is easier to get a second degree in finance-related subjects in the US because the university curricula in the US favours business related subjects. If the Government of Guyana is going to emphasize strict qualifications without contexualization, then I reject such a policy. It ignores the context of the Guyanese reality. I know police officers who
retire at age 55 in Guyana and within three years, secured a higher degree in the US. They are going to be more eligible for public sector jobs than their local counterparts who retired at the same age but opportunity for higher qualifications are simply not there. What the Government needs to do is to recognize the context in which our local talent has had to operate since 1980 and arrange scholarship programmes for them after they enter government service.” (end of quote) So we return to that statement that more needs to be done here to facilitate the diaspora. Really! What about locals? Did I read right? Ministers going to Ireland for medical treatment?
Dem boys seh...
De clamp come down pun cigarette De government decide to clamp down on smoking and people vex. De new law stiff. Dem boys know that some young gyal use to complain how dem go in some place and when dem come out dem smell like smoke. De government intend to put a stop to that. De new law is to stop all smoking in dem night club. In fact, de night club can’t even sell cigarettes because that will encourage smoking. All de people who quarrelling know that de whole world was clamping down on smoking. Long time people use to smoke pun de plane. All who use to smoke had to sit at de back of de plane. Some air hostess get serious health problems and suddenly smoking ban. Don’t care if de flight is fifteen hours, no smoking. And people still travelling. People had black teeth. When dem smile you want to know wha happen to dem, mouth. And dem breath always bad. That might end now. All who go to de States suddenly find out that dem can’t smoke in night club and get ketch. Dem can’t smoke in no public place. Dem boys does see people leffing dem office to go pun de road to smoke. In de win-
ter it really bad. De place freezing and people should stay inside but if you see dem in dem coat out in de cold—smoking. De government also clamping down pun de sale of cigarettes. Is a long time nobody could advertise cigarettes. When dem boys was young dem use to read and hear dem cigarette advertisement. That done. Dem boys want to ask people when last dem see any cigarette advertise. All this stupidness of people sending li’l children to de store to buy one and two cigarette done. To begin wid, de law now seh any selling must be done in a sealed pack. Rohee use de same argument he use fuh de used tyres—people can’t afford. Dem boys seh if you can’t afford to buy cigarettes you can’t afford to smoke. Of course, some people happy. Was a fight to get people to stop smoking in a minibus. Now that is normal—no smoking. Dem boys seh is de same way people gun adjust. It gun save some people in prison because some of dem do bad things, like lying face down fuh a cigarette. Talk half and start wishing goodbye to cigarettes.
Friday July 28, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Finance Minister still open to consultations on Budget 2018 In spite of the past behaviour of the political opposition, Finance Minister Winston Jordan says that he remains open to consultations on budget 2018 with the political opposition. The economist recently stated that the government intends to consult widely on the budget. But when it comes to the opposition, Jordan said, “If they turn up, good enough. They will have an audience with us and they can share what are their concerns, hopes and aspirations with us. If they don’t turn up, the budget will still come out on time...” The Finance Minister said that he will make allowance for any kind of submission, be it oral, written or otherwise. Minister Jordan said, “Since 2015, I have said that my door is open and you can request consultations. You don’t have to wait until a new budget cycle to consult.” He also bemoaned the fact that the political opposition is constantly making the excuse that it does not get access to certain documents. In this regard, Jordan said, “A responsible opposition is bigger than that...” Since last year, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) made it clear that it was not interested in budget talks with the Government given that its initial requests for “pertinent” information was not honoured by the Finance Minister. This posture was maintained by the PPP as it relates to the 2017 budget. Specifically making this statement was PPP Executive Member, Irfaan Ali. In an interview with this newspaper, Ali pointed out that on several occasions, the People’s Progressive Party made requests to the office of the Finance Minister for significant pieces of Government documents so as to inform their talks. To date, he said that these documents are yet to be submitted. He said, “Since 2015, we wrote to the Finance Minister asking him for certain documents regarding the Public Sector Investment Programme. We also pre-
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan sented nine recommendations to help the farmers boost the industry and safeguard their livelihood. To date, we have heard nothing in relation to these recommendations from the Government.” The politician added, “We even called on the government to implement all the projects we negotiated with the Indian Government in the US$50 million line of credit inclusive of the IT Centre of Excellence negotiated by the (former) PPP/C Government. “The Government must realise by now that they also blundered badly on the Amaila Falls Hydro project. We are convinced that they will have to implement this project if we want to expand our economy.”
The Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee reminded that the PPP also pushed during the 2015 consultation process, for Government to aggressively back on stream, the Low Carbon Development Strategy and implement the projects and programmes conceptualised under this programme. Ali who shadows the finance sector said that he even lobbied the government to ensure that the Amerindian livelihood programme be reinstated immediately as well as the reinstatement of the almost 2000 Amerindian youths fired by the coalition Government. He added, “The hinterland airstrips that were cut out by this government must be
completed and implemented immediately.” The former minister said that “confidence cannot be restored with the continuous ethnic purge that is taking place in the Public Service. The loss of professional services and wanton firing of young people and experienced public officials based on political affiliation and ethnicity must be addressed as well.” Ali surmised that the Finance Minister has refused to provide pertinent information to the PPP to inform their consultations and has also rejected its recommendations to improve the lives of the people. He said, “So if we don’t have these documents and they are not using our ideas then what is the point of showing up for consultations? There is no point. Our requests have not been honoured. “Instead, it has been treated with disrespect and until this is improved we would not be interested in any budget talks with this government. Their intentions are clearly insincere.” The Opposition’s refusal to meet for budget talks is one that Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, seems accustomed to by now. Jordan recalled that the Opposition
was a no show for not only 2017 budget talks but also for 2016. The Finance Minister said, “…And let me just set the record straight, some of the documents they were asking for were already available and made public so there was no need to be requesting them from me. “On the other hand, there were other documents such as an IMF document that they asked me for which was not available at the time... I don’t have time to be dealing with excuses.” The Finance Minister insisted that the government remains open to engaging the Opposition in discussions.
He reiterated that his door “remains open for positive engagements with the PPP” that will take the Government and the country forward. In the meantime, consultations with other stakeholders are continuing as scheduled by the Ministry of Finance. Jordan also stated that the manner in which the national budget is prepared, rolled out and accounted for, will be characterised by stricter measures to ensure a level of transparency that has not been seen in over 20 years. The 2018 budget is slated to be presented to the National Assembly in November.
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Friday July 28, 2017
Kaieteur News
Family Commission lobbying for more parental support for youths “Some young people have a lot of issues that they want settled and they need support to do this. But sometimes their parents or the family is not there to give support.” This comment was recently made by Chairperson of the Family Commission, Ms. Sandra Hooper. Hooper, who was appointed to the Commission last year, said that during her tenure deliberate moves are being made to ensure that the family is able to fulfil its supportive purpose. Moreover, the Commission, which falls under the purview of the Ministry of
Social Protection, has been embracing a mandate centered on helping the family to fulfil its purpose to support its members, particularly the young. In order to accomplish this goal, Hooper said that the Commission has been reaching out mainly through the school system. “We have been going around having several workshops...During last term we decided that we were going to start with Georgetown,” related Hooper. In targeting Georgetown, the Chairperson said that the Commission through its Commissioners was able to tackle
a number of areas. This move has been well supported by the principals of the schools. “We have been able to make arrangements to go in [to the schools] and talk to the parents during Parent Teacher Association meetings... We have been to Lodge Secondary, we have been to Enterprise Secondary, then East Ruimveldt Secondary, Tucville and North Georgetown Secondary schools too,” Hooper noted. A number of other schools have also since been targeted as well. Workshops, according to Hooper, have also been held in Regions Two, Three and Five. There are plans to take it farther. “What we have been talking about is parenting the child during their teenage years so that the child and the parent understand that there is a need for support...there is need for parents to have more discussions with their children,” said the Family Commission Chairperson. However, she noted that the work of the Commission
is somewhat limited since the funding it benefits from is small. But according to Hooper, “We will continue to do outreaches to achieve our goal.” The Commission, which was re-launched in 2012 under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic administration, has had censorship high on its agenda. It was reported, then, that the Commission would seek to institute necessary and possible censorship actions to anything it believes can be injurious or harmful to family life. It was therefore expected that the performance of the Commission would even then be backed by the age-old Cinematograph and Video Act of 1912, as well as a new piece of legislation which makes provision for censorship to be brought to any video production, printed material or any other item that can be considered harmful. But according to Hooper, the Commission will be giving immense focus to how the family can help, not only with the development of their own
Ms. Sandra Hooper, Family Commissioner Chairperson. children, but by extension the community. The Commission’s focus in this regard, Hooper said, was fuelled by its recognition that children in the secondary schools were increasingly being found to be involved in pornographic situations. “We knew we had to work with, not only the children, but the parents to see how we can help,” said Hooper. Hooper said that she has had concerns even with parents granting their children
the privilege to watch uncensored television, even cartoons some of which make violent situations acceptable. “Many times parents think it’s ok, that it gives children the impression if they have a problem with somebody they can knock them over and if they fall they get right up back and everything is ok... They don’t know that something is wrong with that unless they are taught otherwise,” Hooper said.
Friday July 28, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Mother arrested for allegedly harboring Camp Street Prison escapee …she now accuses police of brutality
Tilawattie Singh showing the clothing she was wearing when she was allegedly beaten and dragged by the ranks The woman who was arrested by police for allegedly aiding and assisting a Camp Street Prison escapee is claiming physical harassment at the hands of ranks from Berbice and a CID rank from Georgetown. Her son was also arrested. Tilawattie Singh, 38, of Ankerville, Port Mourant, and mother of the escapee, told this publication that police showed up at her home and barged into her yard, breaking her fence, and began
searching her house. They then placed her under arrest, without providing an explanation of why she was being arrested and her home searched. She stated that a rank attached to the Major Crimes Unit whom she recognized told her that she is needed at the Whim Police Station for questioning in relation to the Camp Street Prison escapee. “I jump in the vehicle and they stop at Port Mourant Hospital bridge. They met
with two other vehicle and they drove to Babu sluice that leads to the sea and then (Narine) walk to the vehicle. He tell dem other police fuh carry me to he. From the minute meh step out the vehicle this man (Narine) dealt meh cuff to meh neck, temple and head. Me hold me head and me ah beg dem, “Ow officer; Wha meh do? Wha meh do?” Two others, a plait hair one and another one come and start beat me in me head and cuss meh up.” She stated that she was dragged in the water and on the ground while still beaten mercilessly by the ranks. “Every time me ask wha dem ah beat meh fa dem na tell me. Then dem drive back to the cemetery wheh Jagan burn and dem stop. Then two mo jeep come and one CID detective. I know him well and he tek dem gun and ‘gun butt’ meh to me belly. “Dem continue beating me and dem ask me wha me son name. I said Ravan and dem had meh phone and dem ask me which one ah dem numbers in me phone is me son. But my son doesn’t have a personal phone and I told them that”, she recounted. Singh explained that she told the ranks that her son does not live with her and that she knew nothing. She said when she was eventually booked in at the Whim Police Station, she was asked if she knew why she was arrested, and she answered in the negative. A rank then told her that she was being arrested for allegedly providing food to the escapee, Stafrie Alexander. “I was bleeding when these people put me in the lockup and these people even refused to give me (sanitary
Lodge resident shoots man he claims torched his home A Hadfield Street, Lodge resident has reportedly admitted to shooting a 20-yearold man who allegedly burned the shooter’s home some time ago. The 23-year-old suspect was taken into custody yesterday after the victim, Uborn Blair, of Lot 8 Freeman Street, sustained gunshot wounds to his groin and thighs. According to reports, Blair was standing with friends in front of his home around 23.45 hrs on Wednesday when two men on a motorcycle rode up to them. One of the bikers fired
three shots at Blair. A bullet passed through Blair’s left thigh, his groin and lodged in his right thigh. The attackers escaped west down Freeman Street. Blair was admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital,
where he underwent surgery. Police subsequently apprehended a suspect, who allegedly admitted to shooting Blair, who he claimed had burned his home down. They are still to apprehend the gunman’s accomplice.
pads) even though I told them I was bleeding. I am not here to lie on the police, police are here to protect us and I guess they should be truthful,” the woman said.
Kaieteur News understands that Singh was kept in custody for three days and was subsequently released on station bail, however she is calling on the relevant au-
thorities to look into her allegations made against the police and provide her with some sort of justice. “I want justice; I’m gonna take this very far”, Singh posited. Her son was also released from custody after complying with authorities during questioning.
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Friday July 28, 2017
Kaieteur News
APNU Executive Council agrees Bandits tie up three female guards after invading Busta Company to meet every two months Last Saturday, the Executive Council of A Partnership for National Unity coalition party met for the first time after two years. Following that meeting it was agreed that the Council will now meet every two months. This was disseminated to the media on Wednesday by Executive Member of the Working People’s Alliance, Dr. David Hinds. The last meeting according to the WPA, was called subsequent to a meeting between the WPA and President David Granger on July 17 following the removal of the WPA’s representative in government, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine from the Ministry of Education. According to a statement read by Chairperson of the WPA, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, the meeting on Saturday was attended by all the partners of the APNU. They were the Guyana Action Party (GAP), the Justice for All Party (JFAP), the National Front Alliance (NFA), and the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR). Hinds reported that of all the parties present, the WPA seemed to have the most grievances. He said that as a result of expressing the many concerns, President David Granger moved to appoint a senior member in the APNU to take note of the grievances and attempt to have all the issues ironed-out. He said that during the meeting on Saturday a number of immediate issues were addressed and new matters were raised. The major agenda item for
Dr. David Hinds the meeting was the consideration of a report commissioned by President Granger in his capacity as Chairman of the APNU. “The report documented and summarized the findings of wide-ranging consultations with APNU member parties on their assessment of intra-partnership relations and the general condition of the APNU since the change of government in 2015.” According to SaraboHalley, the discussions were frank and open allowing representatives from all the parties to express their views on the issues highlighted in the report. She said that the WPA’s intervention was twofold. “First, we critiqued the general performance of the government thus far and in the process pointed to what we consider as the main areas of weakness and suggested solutions in that regard. Second, we documented a range of WPA grievances which had
accumulated over a long period and which led to a breakdown in relations between our party and the government.” The WPA Chairperson said that her party is satisfied that it was given a fair hearing and that the concerns raised were treated with the seriousness they deserve. She believes that the party was able to impress upon the APNU partners the need to reinvigorate the APNU, the importance of all partners being treated with respect and the benefit of inclusivity so as to incorporate meaningful and timely consultations and active participation to frame the general direction of the government. “WPA stressed the importance of self-critique within the partnership and re-affirmed our party’s commitment to balancing participation in government with our traditional role of questioning the management of power and fidelity to the defence and protection of the most vulnerable in our society. In the process, we affirmed our right to independent thought and expression which may at times differ with those of our partners and the governing coalition.” She added that the President had proposed that five councils be set-up having responsibility to shape the APNU as it prepares for Local and General elections. She said that despite her party left the meeting feeling a sense of genuine commitment to move ahead as a united APNU, the WPA will adopt an approach of ‘cautions optimism’.
Three female guards, aged 64, 56 and 43, were left traumatised after a seven-man gang tied their hands and feet, during a pre-dawn robbery yesterday at a Busta Beverage Company site at Diamond, East Bank Demerara. The men, who had two handguns, only managed to cart off a flat-screen television set, a digital video recorder, a power saw, and a mobile phone belonging to one of the guards, who are all Profes-
sional Guard Service (PGS) personnel. Police sources said that the robbers gained entry by scaling the fence around 02.30 hrs. They first held a 56-yearold female guard at gunpoint, tied her up, then relieved her of two cell phones. They then proceeded to the back of the compound and tied up a second guard, aged 64. Police said that one of the intruders went to the front gate security hut, held the
third guard at gunpoint, then took her to the back of the compound. After tying up the third guard, one of the men entered a building in the compound and removed a television set, valued at $100,000 and an electric saw before fleeing. While the facility was equipped with security cameras, police were unable to view the robbery, since the thieves had carted off the digital video recorder.
Man gets $15,000 bail for wrong name Thirty-five-year-old Mark Anthony of Lot 56 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice, yesterday appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Anthony denied that on July 23, last, at Ruimveldt Police Station, he told Corporal Eastman that his name was Justin Tony Chase, knowing that was false. The defendant was represented by Attorney-at-law Ted Vasconcellos who asked that his client be released on reasonable bail citing that he has no antecedent and no pending matter in any other court. The lawyer argued that his client was in custody since July 23 which is beyond the 72 hours. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore objected to bail being granted to the defendant citing that he is a flight risk and
Released on bail: Mark Anthony if granted bail will not return to court for the trial. The prosecutor told the court that on the day in question a police officer was driving when the defendant who was also driving observed the officer and began acting in a suspicious manner. The prosecutor added
that the defendant collided with the officer’s vehicle and when he was approached by the officer he tried to get rid of a suitcase that was in his possession. The police officer then called for back-up and gave chase after the defendant who was later intercepted and found to have a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems in his possession suspected to be narcotics. He was then arrested and taken to the station where he told the police that his name was Justin Tony Chase. The prosecutor also told the court that a charge of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking will be brought against the defendant. The magistrate granted bail to the defendant in the sum of $15,000 and he will make his next court appearance on August 14.
Friday July 28, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Helping Hand Health Ministries continues reaching out to residents Dr. Avis Kelly, a graduate of the Howard University Dental School, cannot quench the fire she has to keep serving the country and her associates in the Caribbean population. During the Medical Outreach this was demonstrated at the Leonora and Suddie Public Hospital as Dr. Kelly and her team from the Seventh Day Baptist Church along with the Helping Hand Health Ministries, which comprises 10 persons. The panel consists of three dentists, two physicians, two nurses and the support staff. The inaugural trip by the Helping Hand Health Ministries to Guyana is intended to have the “young, aspiring, local health professionals fired up about the field of dentistry.” In the pursuit, Rehana Fareed, Natasha Alladin, Gavrielle Cave, Jalana Hartman and Kevin Henry
The Helping Hand Health Ministries’ Team have come together from the University of Guyana. They are all second and third year students. In addition, David Adams from the School of
Medicine and Dentistry is there to help them accomplish their principle. Kelly explained, “As a native of the Caribbean I have
Teen gets three years for harbouring wanted man - accomplices remanded Eighteen-year-old Esan Gibson, a welder of Lot 140 Cato Street Agricola, East Bank Demerara, was yesterday jailed for three years and fined $80,000, while 24-yearold Carlotta Geer of Lot 80 Brutus Street Agricola and 17year-old Shyon Freeman of Lot 120 Brutus Street Agricola, were both remanded to prison for harbouring wanted man Melvor Jeffrey called Marlon Jeffrey. The trio appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Gibson pleaded guilty to the charge which read that between July 19 and July 23, last, at Lot 80 Brutus Street Agricola, East Bank Demerara, he knowingly lodged or harboured Melvor Jeffrey, called Marlon Jeffrey, whose name and photograph were publicly published by members of the Guyana Police Force, wanted for a crime. Freeman and Geer were both remanded to prison after denying the allegation. Attorney-at-Law Keoma Griffith who represented Geer told the court that his client is the mother of three young children. The lawyer in his application to secure bail for his client told the court that his client works as a pump attendant and has never been charged before.
Jailed for three years: Esan Gibson Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore stated that on July 11, last, Melvor Jeffrey called Marlon Jeffrey was engaged in a shootout with police at Agricola, East Bank Demerara and in the process he was shot. The court heard that police found a gun and eight cartridges after shootout. The prosecutor went on to tell the court that the accused received injuries and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was admitted as a patient and placed under police guard. The court heard that on July 19 the prisoner escaped from GPHC. Prosecutor Moore told the court that on July 23 about 05:30hrs, police acting on information received went to Lot 80 Brutus Street, Agricola, East Bank Demerara where they carried out a search. The escapee was found in a barrel with a bag
Remanded to prison: Carlotta Geer
Remanded to prison: Shyon Freeman over his head and covered with curtains. The Prosecutor told the court that Gibson who was in the house at the time gave the police a caution statement stating that he knew that Jeffrey had escaped from the GPHC and was wanted by the police. The court heard that (Continued on page 27)
always had a passion to give back to the Caribbean people.” She went on to say how expectant she is that their exertion will be “well received and the needs of the people met.” Kelly, after graduating from the Howard University Dental School in Washington DC made it her hometown. She originally came from Jamaica and has been conducting
Health Mission Outreaches for over 30 years. She, along with her team, uses their once a year retreat to visit various Caribbean countries to perform such medical outreaches. According to Kelly, the people of Guyana can look forward to blood pressure testing, diabetic screening and dental care from the squad during their visit.
“The primary message is for persons to practise better health care by eating the required foods, drinking enough water, and utilising all the good nutrients that are available in moderation.” A dental practitioner, Peola Marks, who is currently attached to the Leonora Hospital, happens to be overwhelmed to be associated with the “experienced team”. She views the option as a “gamer to fresh insight’ into her selected area of interest. She noted, “Dentistry has been my passion for many years and I’m grateful for this opportunity to expound on my knowledge in the field.” UG student, David Adams, who is connected to the hospital stated that it is his “first time” being involved in the realistic functions of dental care. Like Marks, he is anticipating the days to come. He went on to state that participating with the team, he has developed much knowledge that will be “very beneficial” to not only him, but also to those with whom he associates. The team is expected to leave Guyana, today.
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Friday July 28, 2017
Kaieteur News
“Put public before profits” - DCMO tells Food Safety Workshop
A section of the gathering at the workshop
Deputy Chief Medical Officer [DCMO], Dr. Karen Boyle, this week said local manufacturers must not put greed before the health and well-being of Guyanese. Addressing a Food Handlers seminar held at Grand Coastal Hotel, Le Ressouvenir, East Bank Demerara (Demerara/ Mahaica) Tuesday, Dr. Boyle agreed that businesses must earn profits but not while jeopardising public safety. “Manufactures must continue to be profitable but not
at the expense of the public,” Dr. Boyle said. The one-day seminar, which was organised by the Food and Drug Analysis (FDA) Department of the Ministry of Public Health, attracted some 30 participants from local food- manufacturing companies. They were coursed as a part of a menu of measures to qualify for receiving their Food Handlers Identification Card. This is the first time local food handlers are identified by ID cards. In the past they car-
ried a ‘Food Handlers’ certificate. In her feature remarks, Dr. Boyle indicated that the Public Health Ministry’s vision is to ensure that all Guyanese are among the healthiest in the Caribbean and in safeguarding their health, the Ministry has been boosting health care services in accordance to the social and economic factors which put the health and safety of the population at risk. “It is our duty, having identified those risk factors,
to work with communities, Government, the private sector and individuals to raise public and private sector awareness and to institutionalise polices that protect the consumer and empower the manufacturer to continue to be profitable but not at the expense of the public,” Dr. Boyle reiterated. The DCMO highlighted that even though the Public Health Ministry recognises the private sector as the growth engine of any free market economy, the need for profit must be balanced with the need to protect the health and safety of the public. She said the Government Food and Drug Analyst (FDA) Department is the administrative and enforcement arm of the Ministry under the Food and Drug Act, Chapter 34:03. Under the 1971 legislation, food manufactures have an important role to play in protecting the health of people by producing foods that are safe, sound, wholesome and that are nutritionally acceptable. This constitutes one of the preventive aspects of health care systems and will thus lead to the use and requirement of less drugs and medicines in the curative aspect of the system. In the health protection role, manufactures should ensure that satisfactory standards of hygiene are practised, in all aspects of commerce from the raw materials used through the manufacturing process to the final retail distribution of the finished product. “For this reason there are codes of practice, standards and guidelines to ensure food safety from farm to food,” the DCMO said. She moreover warned that manufacturers must conduct their operation under sanitary conditions and that food should be manufactured, packaged and stored in a building that is maintained in a clean, sanitary and orderly condition free from vermin infestation and accumulated
Dr. Karen Boyle, Deputy Chief Medical Officer
Mr. Marlan Cole, Director Government Food and Drug Analyst Department
waste or debris. She encouraged those present to always observe the Five Cs and S which are the basic tenants of food safety. “We must wash with purified clean water; Check expiration dates; Avoid purchasing foods that are Cracked, bulging or rusty; Chill the foods requiring refrigeration. “We must Cook our foods well, especially our meats; and Separate the raw meat and vegetables when preparing our foods and desist from using the same cutting board,” Dr. Boyle asserted. FDA Director, Mr. Marlon Cole, said that the mandate of his Department is to ensure that local manufacturers and food handlers carry out their functions and responsibilities so as to protect consumers. “Our philosophy is that it is important for you to know about the aspects of food microbiology, none microbial contamination, fire safety requirement for food factories, pest control, labelling requirement, cleaning and sanitation and personal hygiene,” Cole said. In his presentation, he asked that participants remain cognisant of the fact that knowing how to grow and handle products safely, store and cook them properly is vital to the health of our consumers. “Food poisoning oftentimes lead to acute gastroenteritis and diarrhoea and according to the Burden Incidence Report, 2009/2010 coming out of Guyana, we have a high incidence rate of gastroenteritis and the prevalence is about seven per cent annually. A person will come down with at least one episode of diarrhoea incidence per year”. The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), the most sweeping reform of food safety laws in more than 70 years, was signed into law by President Obama on Janu-
ary 4, 2011 and aims to ensure the U.S. food supply is safe by shifting the focus from responding to contamination to preventing it. Under this act, exporting entities will be required to have someone trained as all a ‘Preventative Control Qualify Individual’ who will be tasked with ensuring that the foods produced are protected and free from the micro and nonmicrobial contamination before export to North America. Cole told the participants that the Public Health Ministry is expected to lead yet another training exercise to certify individuals in keeping with the US mandate prior to the enforcement of this new rule which is expected in September of this year. “We are the regulators and facilitator of training; we have to continue our synergy in working closely together. We have to depend on the Ministry of Public Health to give the Food and Drug Department support to enhance our ability and capability and capacity to train and to ensure that members in the agro processing committee and those in the manufacturing services are equipped with the information, are licenced to advance our society relative to development, sustainability,” said Cole. He reminded local food manufacturers about their importance to a country’s economy while underscoring the roles of the food inspectors and the FDA department. “I want to signal to you, members in the food manufacturing sector, I cannot overstate your importance in our economy but I want you not to look the Food and Drug Department as your police, but look at us as facilitators, enablers and of course we will want to ensure that you subscribe to the requirements at your own advantage,” Cole stressed.
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Kaieteur News
Imam Bacchus and Sons Ltd
Pressing forward since the 1950s Over the years Imam Bacchus and Sons Ltd has developed quite a reputation on the Essequibo Coast. Today, word of the rapid growth of the business has spread extensively beyond the Essequibo River, ever so popular for its famous Wakapau Cafe. What simply started out as a rice milling operation has today evolved to a marvelous company, comprising of six other diversified operations. The business was initially established by the late Mr. Imam Bacchus. Today its operations are managed by his sons, Samad and Adam Baksh, along with their wives and children. Anyone familiar with the Bacchus family would do well to agree that their accomplishments were built on solid foundations. Others may need to gaze deeper into the history and foundation of this well-developed partnership. The history of the business reveals that its foundation was well rooted in the will of one man… the late Mr. Imam Bacchus. Imam Bacchus as a young man in the 1930s, worked feverishly with his three brothers as coconut pickers and farmers on the small island of Hamburg (Tiger Island) in the Essequibo River. Over time their business developed. In 1950, however, Imam Bacchus took his share and split from his brothers. He used his share of the partnership to buy three villages on the Essequibo Coast-- Columbia, Taymouth Manor and Affiance. His son, Samad Baksh, recalls his father being a man of principles. “My father was a man who interacted with most people; he was religious, conservative and had liberal view on life. He wasn’t the type of person that would scold you in order make his point or demonstrate his authority.
Imam Bacchus & Sons headquarters
Imam Bacchus
“He would set out his principles and give you a chance to make right your mistakes. I can recall, while I was yet in school the family sat down for dinner. The chatter halted and to break the ice my brother said, ‘Papa, Samad does drink rum yuh know.’ “My father looked at me shockingly and asked, ‘Is that so?’ I said yes. My father didn’t scold me; he just said ‘I’m ashamed of you.’ Those words had an impact on me and a lasting effect on my life.” Despite being a man with multiple jobs, Mr. Bacchus still found time for his family. “Dad was the hardest working man I ever knew,” said Samad. “He had three jobs. During the seasons of rice preparation he had a pair of oxed to work in the cool of the early morning, at least until 8 to 9 in the morning because then the animals would get tired. “He’ll then pick coconuts in the afternoon, then head off to the Masjid. At nights he did tailoring.” Samad believes that one reason why his father’s goals
Poultry in 1974
were accelerated was because he wasn’t a wild party type. Rather, he was a man that saw his dreams and perused them. The business started out as a simple milling operation in the early 1950s. The mill which was built since the 1920s in Affiance, was inherited by Mr. Bacchus when he bought that plot of land. The mill at the time was a simple hauler that ground and operated without a separator for broken rice. Sifting and drying were done using buckets and other methods. The mill eventually got hold of a fan, then later a ‘broken’ separator. In the early 1960s the company bought a multi stage mill then a diesel dryer in 1969. With the dryer newly installed the mill then went from processing 10,000 bags to 50,000 bags per crop. This eventually supported most of the local farmers economically. In 1994, a newer and more modern mill was finally commissioned. The mill was considered the “backbone of the company,” especially since it contributed to the establishment of the smaller busi-
The noodle factory in 1974
nesses. In the 1970s the business not just milled rice, rather they leaped into the cultivation of the “valuable grain”. Today the business also manages a noodle factory, poultry, a school and two supermarkets (one recently opened in Anna Regina). Smaller services such as Western Union and fast food, are also provided at the main operational premises in Affiance. As is the case with all investments, complications are imminent. One such complication may be that the load of investment is just too heavy to carry. The heaviest investment made by Mr. Bacchus was the purchase of the three villages on the Essequibo Coast-- Taymouth Manor, Affiance and Columbia. After the investment was made, Mr. Bacchus then feared that he might not have been able to service the loan. “He was convinced that he had overextended,” said his son Samad Baksh. To cope with the financial constrains he sold the investments in plots of land to persons renting the land. The result? Not only was Mr.
Bacchus able to repay his loan, but he also managed to make a profit from selling the plots of lands to the locals. By 1969 the business had already employed 35 persons on its workforce. By 1974 the chowmein factory and chicken farm came on stream, thus employing more people. Today, Imam Bacchus and Sons Ltd employs over 200 people. This vast array of manpower spans from Anna Regina to Queenstown. Quite interestingly the workforce consists of young people and early school leavers. Imam Baksh explained why his workforce was designed that way. He said, “It has to do with the economics on the Essequibo Coast and the migration system. “It’s efficient to hire young people than older people because they adapt easier. Usually on the Coast we get a ‘split.’ Twenty to30 years ago people expected to live on the Coast and work, but today there’s migration to Georgetown and to New York. “Early school leavers would use like two years with us, then they leave for UG or Business schools. Some
people on the other may just have a bond with the Essequibo Coast. These stay with the business and eventually become supervisors and managers.” During political unrest of 1963 came civil disturbance in Georgetown, Guyana. The country’s political unrest resulted in day to day strikes. As a result it became difficult for residents to move freely. Transportation froze between Essequibo and Georgetown, making it difficult for residents to receive essential supplies such as rice, flour and sugar. By then Mr. Bacchus had developed the reputation as a man of integrity. He asked to bring the essentials from Georgetown closer to residents. The people were confident that Mr. Bacchus would distribute the stocks evenly, and at the right price. In 1964 Mr. Bacchus decided he could explore food distribution. As such he established a store in the same year. Today the business gives back community through its Playground and Park, made readily available to the public.
Friday July 28, 2017
Trinidadian gets bail on causing death charge A Trinidadian was yesterday ordered to post $200,000 bail by Magistrate Alex Moore when he appeared in the Weldaad Magistrates’ Courts. Twenty-eight-year-old Tarron Alexander, an electrical technician of Lot 188 BB Eccles, East Bank Demerara, denied the charge which alleged that on July 24 at Lovely Lass Public Road, West Coast Berbice, he drove vehicle GPP 4166 and caused the death of Keifer Campbell. The defendant was represented by Attorney-at-Law Bernard DaSilva who asked that bail be granted to his client because he has never been convicted before. Police Prosecutor Raquel Mars objected to bail being granted to the defendant citing the serious nature of the
Charged: Tarron Alexander offence and the penalty the charge attracts. However Magistrate Moore over-ruled the prosecutor objection and applied bail to the defendant. Conditions of the bail is that the
defendant lodged his passport and report to the Providence Police Station every Friday until the completion of the trail. The defendant will make his next court appearance on August 17 for report. According to reports the now deceased who was at the time riding a bike suddenly swerved into the path of the pick-up causing the left front of the vehicle to collide with the cyclist who fell onto the road. According to information the cyclist was picked up in unconscious condition and rushed to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. A breathalyzer test was conducted on the defendant and no trace of alcohol was detected in his breath.
Teen gets three years for... (From page 15) Gibson saw Jeffrey in Agricola behind a dam and he assisted him to the address mentioned in the charge, knowing for a fact that a wanted bulletin was issued for him and that he had escaped from the GPHC. Prosecutor Moore also objected to bail being granted to the females citing the serious nature of the offence and the penalty the charge attracts. The prosecutor went on to tell the court that if bail is granted to the defendants they will tamper with the witnesses in the matter since they are from the same com-
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Kaieteur News
munity. Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan remanded the defendants to prison for public safety and the fact that no one should be harbouring any wanted persons.
The magistrate is also calling on the welfare department to come forward to provide care for the defendant’s three young children. The defendants will make their next court appearance on August 9.
Senior cop freed on charge of threatening to kill Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan yesterday dismissed a charge of threatening language against a police officer for Want of Prosecution. Twenty-nine-year-old Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Frank Thompson, of Lot 154 Back Street, Stewartville, West Coast Demerara, was charged with using threatening language against Hemchand Budhai. The magistrate dismissed the matter citing Budhai’s failure to report to court when the matter was called. It is alleged that on February 22, last, at Broad Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, ASP Thompson threatened Hemchand Budhai. It was further alleged that on the same day in question he used abusive language towards Police Constable Leandre Gillis. The senior rank is on bail after denying both allegations. According to reports, on the day in question, Constable Gillis was on patrol duties at Broad Street, Charlestown, when he was stopped by Hemchand Budhai, who reported to him that ASP Thompson’s vehicle had crashed into his vehicle which at the time had occu-
Frank Thompson pants. Constable Gillis then accompanied Budhai to the scene. It is alleged that ASP Thompson upon seeing Budhai approaching him, started to use a series of indecent expressions and threatened to kill him and the other occupants in the vehicle. The court further heard that after Constable Gillis told Thompson of the allegation made by Budhai, Thompson then asked the junior rank, “What the (expletive) you gon’ do about it?” According to reports, when being questioned by the junior rank with regard to the accident in which he was in-
volved, the senior rank, who appeared to be intoxicated, apparently became abusive toward Budhai and the Police Constable. The ASP, who was subsequently requested by the junior rank to drive to the nearest police station, turned to the junior rank, who found himself at the end of the ASP’s verbal onslaught. “You know me? Eh? Find out ‘bout me. If me had it me way, you won’t be a (expletive) recruit…Find out ‘bout me. Call ‘A’ Division. I would murder you (expletive) on the ground hey,” he allegedly exclaimed. In a video of the episode that was circulated on social media, the junior rank was heard pleading with the senior rank to desist from such actions; he however continued. The matter of abusive language against the Police Constable is ongoing before Senior Magistrate Dylon Bess in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood
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Friday July 28, 2017
Kaieteur News
House passes Bill to restrict smoking in night clubs, public places The horrid effects of tobacco smoking have been felt not only in Guyana’s public health system but the world over. In an effort to address this epidemic locally with stricter controls, the Government brought to the National Assembly, a most rigid Tobacco Control Bill. The Bill saw its second reading yesterday. It was moved by Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence. The Minister emphasized that the Bill is crucial as it represents a further step in protecting the health of the nation which remains a priority for the Government. Lawrence noted that the passage of the Bill would be in keeping with Government’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) by 2030. One of the SDGs speaks to ensuring healthy lives and promoting the wellbeing for all at all ages. The Parliamentarian said that her Ministry is mandated to ensure this goal is achieved and therefore stressed that the Bill be considered and passed. The Minister explained that the Bill provides for the adoption and implementation of tobacco control policies in accordance with the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control which aims to protect present and future generations from the devastating
Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence harms of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke. The Minister said that the Bill also seeks to prevent tobacco use by minors; protect workers and the public from exposure to tobacco smoke; prevent exposure of the public, especially minors, to tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship; enhance public awareness of the hazards of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke; and ensure that every person is provided with effective health warnings about the harms of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke. The politician also stated that the Bill intends to regulate the tobacco industry, its products and sales; protect
public health policies from the commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry; and provide for other related matters. Lawrence insisted that the tobacco epidemic affects a nation’s economy by placing a lot of pressure on the public health system to deal with related chronic diseases. She said that effective legislation will help to control the epidemic. Furthermore, the Parliamentarian sought to clarify that the Bill does not purport to ban the sale of tobacco products completely, except in the case of health and education facilities, government facilities and recre-
Thousands of worshippers surge into Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa mosque, 113 injured JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Thousands of Muslim worshippers surged into Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque yesterday and at least 113 were hurt in scuffles with police after Israel lifted security measures imposed at the sacred site in the face of days of violent protests. Chaotic scenes unfolded as Israeli police used stun grenades to try to control crowds charging forward when the last gate Muslims use to enter Al-Aqsa was
opened after a stand-off lasting several hours. “We will sacrifice ourselves for Al-Aqsa!” chanted the throng outside Islam’s third holiest shrine. Several young men clambered onto the mosque’s roof to affix Palestinian flags, which Israeli police soon confiscated. Israel’s removal of the security devices, including metal detectors and CCTV cameras, marked a significant climbdown by rightwing Prime Minister Ben-
jamin Netanyahu. While Palestinians celebrated, political opponents accused him of weakness. Netanyahu’s decision followed days of diplomatic effort by the United Nations, the involvement of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy and pressure from Muslim Arab powers in the region. One of these, Jordan, continued to fume at Netanyahu over the shooting deaths of two of its citizens by an Israeli Embassy guard in Amman on Sunday. Israel repatriated the guard to a hero’s welcome, saying he had fired in selfdefense against an attack that may have been spurred by pro-Palestinian sentiment. The Aqsa dispute erupted after Israel installed metal detectors at Muslim entrances to the compound, known to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and to Jews as Temple Mount, following the July 14 killing of two Israeli police guards by gunmen who had concealed weapons inside the walled plaza.
ation and entertainment facilities. The Minister said that nothing different is observed in sister countries. A d d i t i o n a l l y, L a w r e n c e clarified that the average man or woman selling these products in the market or street would not be displaced by the Bill. She insisted that there would not be a fall of in sales in the near future too. In the long term, as the next generation sees these products becoming less popular, Lawrence said that the distributors will be forced to diversify. Her call to the National Assembly to vote in favour of the Bill was supported by her colleagues on the eastern side of the House. This was also reflected in the presentations made by Government Parliamentarians such as Social Cohes i o n M i n i s t e r, G e o rg e Norton; Junior Health Minister, Karen Cummings and Public Telecommunications Minister, Cathy Hughes. The Opposition on the other hand, just couldn’t
bring itself to agree with the Bill and its content, regardless of the positive attributes. PPP Parliamentarian, Clement Rohee, made it clear that he was not impressed. The Bill is fraught with several controversial matters, Rohee said. The Bill makes one question whether it is pro or anti business and infringing upon the personal freedoms and constitutional rights of citizens, he added. Of the many issues raised by Rohee, he spoke extensively on the fact that the Bill will allow for certain officers or persons as selected by the Ministry to be vested with authority to observe the law. An authorised officer, according to the Bill, can also arrest those in breach of the law in public places. The Parliamentarian then painted a typical scenario where persons who would flock the stadium to enjoy a rock concert would not be able to indulge in cigarettes and similar paraphernalia simply because of the Bill. In this situation, Rohee bemoaned the fact that the selected officers would be
walking around looking for people who are smoking in such a public place. He alluded to the fact that one would simply be “looking for trouble”. Rohee said that Guyana’s law enforcement officers are already under tremendous pressure. “Now you want them to go hunt down smokers who are participating in a social event.” The Opposition Member said that the Bill seeks to encourage a dangerous situation and as such, maintained that he could not support it. The Opposition also took issue with the strict penalties of the Bill. According to the Bill, anyone engaged in the advertising, promotion or sponsorship of tobacco commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $9M and imprisonment for 12 months. After some debate, there were several amendments to clauses of the Bill which were considered and voted on. The Bill was subsequently passed by the House.
U.S. general: North Korea ICBM threat advancing faster than expected WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. General Mark Milley, the chief of staff of the Army, said yesterday that North Korea’s July 4 test of an intercontinental ballistic missile showed its capab i l i t i e s w e r e a d vancing significantly and faster than many had expected. Milley, in remarks to the National Press Club in Washington, said there was still time for a nonmilitary solution to the crisis caused by North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs, but cautioned that “time is running out.” “North Korea is extremely dangerous and more dangerous as the weeks go by,” he said. U.S. media reported this
week that the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), the Pentagon spy agency, had assessed that North Korea would be able to field a nuclear-capable ICBM by next year, earlier than previously thought. However, two U.S. officials said some other analysts who study North Korea’s missile program did not agree with the assessment, although there was no question that Pyongyang had moved further and faster in its efforts. U.S. officials said on Tuesday they had seen increased North Korean activity that could be preparations for another missile test within days. After its July 4 test, North Korea said it had mastered the technology
needed to deploy a nuclear warhead via the missile. It also said the test verified the atmospheric re-entry of the warhead, which experts say may be able to reach the U.S. state of Alaska. North Korea has made no secret of its plans to develop a nuclear-tipped missile capable of striking the United States and has ignored international calls to halt its weapons programs. The vice chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Paul Selva, said last week that North Korea did not have the ability to strike the United States with “any degree of accuracy” and that while its missiles had the range, they lacked the necessary guidance capability.
Walter Rodney COI…WPA wants charges... From page 9 Guyanese. In a statement supplied to the media on Wednesday it was stated the WPA continued participation in the government must be premised on a commitment to preserve the party’s Rodneyite identity, its independent voice, the right to critique the performance of the government and the party’s ability to influence the government to use the country’s resources to directly influence the lives of Guyanese.
“There was consensus that the party must continue to be the voice of reason and self-critique within the governing coalition.” Further, the statement that was read by Chairperson of the party, Tabitha SaraboHalley, said that the meeting recommended that the WPA should refresh and broaden its ideological and general political orientation to serve as the core of a National Renewal Movement. This, according to the
party, will be aimed at mobilising broad sections of the Guyanese population in order to arrest the drift in the society and help restore hope for a better future for the broad masses of people, especially the most vulnerable. Further, it was decided by the party that the reb u i l d i n g o f t h e WPA should begin immediately with the reactivation of its key organs, re-energising existing members and recruiting new members and allies.
Friday July 28, 2017
U.S. Senate slaps new sanctions on Russia; Putin vows retaliation
Russian President Vladimir Putin WA S H I N G T O N / SAVONLINNA, Finland (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate voted nearly unanimously yesterday to slap new sanctions on Russia despite President Donald Trump’s objections to the legislation, which has angered Russian President Vladimir Putin who threatened to retaliate. The Senate backed the measure, which also imposes sanctions on Iran and North Korea, by a margin of 98-2 with strong support from Trump’s fellow Republicans as well as Democrats. The bill will now be sent to the White House for Trump to sign into law or veto. The bill is the first major foreign policy legislation approved by Congress under Trump, who has struggled to advance his domestic agenda despite Republicans controlling the Senate and House of Representatives. If Trump chooses to veto it, the bill is expected to garner enough support in both chambers to override his veto and pass it into law. The bill threatens to further derail U.S.-Russian relations, which deteriorated under former President Barack Obama. Trump had hoped to improve ties but his administration has been clouded by investigations of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election to help Trump. The president denies any collusion between his campaign and Moscow. The sanctions measure has already passed the House of Representatives by a 419-3. Republicans and Democrats have pushed for more sanctions partly as a response to conclusions by U.S. intelligence agencies that the Kremlin interfered in the election. Speaking just before the Senate passed the bill, Republican Senator John McCain, a leading congres-
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sional voice calling for a firm line against Russia said: “The United States of America needs to send a strong message to Vladimir Putin and any other aggressor that we will not tolerate attacks on our democracy.” Putin, who has repeatedly denied meddling in the campaign said Moscow would only decide on how to retaliate once it had seen the final text of the proposed law. The bill would affect a range of Russian industries and might further hurt the Russian economy, already weakened by 2014 sanctions imposed after the Ukraine crisis. Besides angering Moscow, the proposed legislation has upset the European Union, which has said the new sanctions might affect its energy security and prompt it to act, too. Earlier yesterday, a senior White House aide said Trump could veto the pending legislation in order to push for a tougher deal, an idea that drew skepticism in Congress because his administration had spent weeks lobbying for a weaker bill. Trump’s concerns include a provision letting Congress stop any effort to ease existing sanctions on Russia. But White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci suggested Trump in fact wanted stronger sanctions. “He may sign the sanctions exactly the way they are or he may veto the sanctions and negotiate an even tougher deal against the Russians,” Scaramucci told CNN. Earlier yesterday, Senator Bob Corker, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told reporters: “I would guess that he (Trump) will sign it.” WHAT WILL TRUMP DO? Earlier yesterday before the Senate vote, White
House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said the Trump administration continues to support strong sanctions against Russia, North Korea and Iran, adding “we’re going to wait and see what that final legislation looks like and make a decision at that point.” Trump can impose new sanctions at any time through an executive order. “This bill doesn’t preclude him from issuing tougher sanctions. That doesn’t make any sense,” said Edward Fishman, a former State Department official during the Obama administration who worked on U.S. sanctions policy. Once Trump receives the bill, if he does not sign it, he has 10 days, excluding Sundays, before he must issue a veto and prevent the bill from becoming law automatically. If he opts for a veto, the bill can become law anyway if two-thirds of both the House and Senate vote for an override. Putin said on a visit to Finland on Thursday that Russia was “exercising restraint and patience, but at some moment we’ll have to retaliate. It’s impossible to endlessly tolerate this boorishness towards our country.” Putin, at a joint news conference with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto, also spoke about Obama’s order last December to seize Russian diplomatic property in the United States and to expel 35 Russian diplomats. “This goes beyond all reasonable bounds,” Putin said. “And now these sanctions they are also absolutely unlawful from the point of view of international law.”
Brazil’s Temer scrambles for support to block corruption trial BRASILIA (Reuters) With a spreadsheet listing undecided lawmakers, Brazilian President Michel Temer is working the phones to nail down support to block a corruption charge in a crucial congressional vote next week that will decide his political future, close aides said. The lower house will decide on Wednesday whether Temer should be put on trial by the Supreme Court for allegedly taking bribes from the world’s largest meatpacker, JBS SA. Even though Temer is widely expected to survive the vote, the country’s top prosecutor has said he will file at least two more graft-related charges against Temer in coming weeks. Wednesday’s vote will be a gauge of how much support the unpopular president has to press ahead with reform of the costly pension system that is needed to overcome Brazil’s fiscal crisis and help Latin America’s largest economy out of deep recession. Temer is taking no chances. The Contas Abertas watchdog group, citing Finance Ministry data, says he has freed up funding for lawmakers’ districts at an unprecedented rate to secure their support to bury the corruption charges, with outlays soaring to 4.2 billion reais ($1.33 billion) since June, compared to just 100 million reais in the first five months of this year. Some members of his governing coalition, including his closest ally the Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB) are split over whether it is
Brazilian President Michel Temer time to abandon the corruption-plagued president even if they fully back his economic policies. “Last week we had 261 lawmakers for Temer and 171 against him,” said Beto Mansur, the government’s deputy whip in the lower chamber, who said he handed the president a computer spreadsheet with the names of the 80 undecided politicians. “He managed by phone to convince 20 to vote for him.” “We have to win with a large margin to show Brazilian society that the charges are not a threat to Temer, so we can put this behind us and get on with the pension reforms and other economic measures Brazil needs,” Mansur told Reuters. Under Brazil’s constitution, two-thirds of the lower house deputies (342 of 513) must vote in favor of the charge for it to proceed to the Supreme Court, which in turn must rule on whether to go ahead with a trial. Temer would be suspended for 180 days pending the outcome of a trial.
The corruption scandal has undermined the scant popularity Temer had, making it harder for lawmakers to support him ahead of next year’s elections. A poll published on Thursday showed his government’s approval rating fell to just 5 percent, and 87 percent of those surveyed say they do not trust him. In Temer’s presidential offices, staffers are worried but confident the government has the votes to prevail. “We have 280 votes for sure, and could pass 300. Any absences among lawmakers will help the president,” Marco de Freitas, Temer’s chief spokesman, said in an interview. “The charge lacks enough proof to put a president on trial. And the other charges are even less solid,” he said. Several lawmakers, however, have told Reuters the next votes on two additional charges Prosecutor General Rodrigo Janot plans to file, including racketeering and obstruction of justice, will be a closer call for Temer due to the media spotlight shining on them and the proximity of an approaching election year. Temer will meet with dozens of lawmakers on Monday and Tuesday when Congress returns from recess to press his case on the eve of the vote, de Freitas said. Political analyst Thiago de Aragão expects a cabinet reshuffle after the vote to reward coalition parties that most solidly backed Temer and consolidate the president’s realigned political base to move forward with his reform agenda.
Jamaica on course for “record-breaking growth” in tourism – Tourism Minister KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett says the Tourism sector is on course for “record -breaking growth” this year. Bartlett who was addressing Wednesday’s session of the Jamaica 55 Diaspora Conference said revenue earnings for the first half of the year is estimated at US$1.84 billion, which is an increase of over eight per cent compared to the first six months of 2016. He said the country welcomed 2,165,330 visitors up to the end of June this year, which is 3.9 per cent higher than the corresponding period last year. For the first two weeks of
July there were 104,098 stop over visitors — a massive 14.9 per cent increase over the same period in 2016. The strong sector performance since the start of the year builds on the successes of 2016, when the sector expanded by an unprecedented four per cent, and welcomed over 3.84 million visitors in total. Gross Foreign Exchange Earnings for the period amounted to US$2.55 billion up 6.2 per cent, with stopover arrival earnings of US$2.4 billion, representing a 6.1 per cent increase; and cruise passenger earnings of US$148.6 million, up eight per cent. In spite of these prolific
numbers, Bartlett said the ministry, its agencies and other key stakeholders are never complacent and “we continue to revamp and intensify our strategies to identify key drivers of competitiveness and sustainable tourism development in Jamaica.” Bartlett noted that tourism remains one of the few labourintensive sectors and directly employs over 106,000 Jamaicans, and another 250, 000
indirectly, through linkages with agriculture, the creative and cultural industries, entertainment, manufacturing, transportation, finance and other services. Over the last 10 years, tourism has expanded by 36 per cent. Direct contribution of tourism to GDP is estimated at 8.4 per cent while total contribution is estimated at 27.2 per cent of GDP.
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Land to buy in Eccles, Parfaite Harmonie, Tuschen, Farm, Uitluvgt, Herstelling, we pay best price. Call: 604-6724/6869608
CANTER DRIVER/ SALESMAN, MINIMUM 3 YEARS DRIVING EXPERIENCE, FACTORY ASSISTANT 266 4427
Vegetarian Gardens: office assistant. Call: 227-7714/2310951/223-3448, info@vgiworld.com
Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigration Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496/ 662-6045
Experienced shop workers, handyman & domestic to work in the Interior, age 1840yrs. Call: 231-0363 (9am4:30pm). (TIN, ID & NIS)
Data Entry Clerk. Requirements: previous experienced in Microsoft Excel & Accounting Software. For further info call: 617-1809
Upholstery: cover any type of furniture at a reasonable cost, home service if possible. Call: 216-2230/682-8718
Live in experienced waitress $20,000 weekly. Call: 610-5043
INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.
Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call: 629-4946 or 225-4822 Repairs to refrigerators, gas stoves, A/C units, washing machines. Call Lindon: 6411086/ 694-2202
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. -CosmetologyCourses:$120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 Register Now! Summer Courses in cosmetology & nails 7th -18th August; Cost: $20,000. Limited space available. Call: 618-2417
One maid, one babysitter. Attractive salary. Contact: 696-9386 Experienced roti/puri cook, curry cook and waiters. Apply @ Hack’s Halaal with handwritten application, 5 Commerce Street. (Day Shift only) Responsible Hire Drivers. Call: 231-7200
Journey Inn apartment rental, short term with AC & Kitchen, as low as -$15US. Call: 642-1783/ 646-3011634/ 718-2301695
Cashiers & supermarket helpers at Nirva Supermarket, apply in person with written application at 49 Sheriff & Craig Street. Call: 227-5771 One experienced legal computer clerk. Call: 624-7087/ 226-4283/258-0213/ email:husainsaphier@ yahoo.com One experienced general domestic. Must be able prepare vegetarian meals. Payment $80,000. Interested person call: 623-1615
Car
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 677-7827, 6435122 ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM DOLLY’SCARRENTAL-CALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP RATES,SPECIAL OFFERS! . CALL: 690-6494
ACCOMMODATION
Friday July 28, 2017
Kaieteur News
AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL: PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807
TO LET 3 Bedroom house to rent @ Grove Public Road. Call between Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm: 223-0204
Property for rent - 2 storey house at Republic Park, E.B.D $1200USD. Call 647-1773 Fully furnished luxury apartment to rent 2 & 3 bedrooms, long and short term stay. Call: 665-3505 One big two bedrooms top flat house at Phoenix Park, lot 20 West Bank Demerara. Call: 643-9286 Three storey 75ftX30ft building/bond, open floors, 2 offices, 2 washrooms, driveways @ 25B Princes St., Charlestown. Call: 223-0654/ 225-0605 One bedroom apartment well secured for working couple or single person -$35,000 monthly, light & water included. Call: 638-8858 2 Bedrooms apartment in Eccles New Scheme, furnished or unfurnished from August 1 2017. Call: 2253234 One upper flat in Albert Street, Alberttown. Call: 618-3575 2 Bedrooms apartment to rent working couple. Call: 6183949 One & two bedroom apartment available. Call: 2314432/ 681-4275 2 Bedroom with toilet & bathroom, upper flat apartment @ Lot Q19 Pigeon Island, Chateau Margot, E.C.D. Call: 220-6799/2206657/603-9547
PROPERTY FOR SALE
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 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 Land @ No.7 Village W.C.B – 86’X317’, roadside -$34M negotiable. Call:622-6473 (Raj), 648-6873 (Bernard), 661-4604 (Veronica) Land in Zeelugt new scheme, $2.5M,Providence- $4.2M, land in Tuschen (Phase 1) - $2.5M & La Parfaite Harmonie - $1.7M – 642-1252 La Parfaite Harmonie- $2M, $1.3M, $1.1M, Herstelling$3M, Tuschen house & land - $2.7M, Tuschen -$2M, $1M. Call: 604-6724/686-9608 La Parfaite Harmonie (main road) -$2M, $1.4M, $1.2M, Herstelling -$3M, Tuschen Phase 2 - $1.2M. Call: 6662326
C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj BuildingCall: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 (affordable packages). TAXI SERVICE
Farm -$3.5M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.6M, $1.8M, Uitvlught -$3.2M, Ameila’s Ward Linden (fenced) $2.5M, penalty paid. Call: 6560701/651-1969
G R TA X I S E RV I C E . CALL: 219-5000; 2271982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
One transported property for business or residential located @ Friendship Public Road, EBD -$18M. Call: 6484810/661-5099 3 Storey commercial building, located on Church St (3 building from Carmichael Street). Call: 645-6498
1 Set of used magrims, 4 holes 17". Call: 685-6874/653-2477 Puppies – husky 10 months old poodles, pitbull. Call: 2670205/ 671-9136/ 670-4228 A flock of sheep, price negotiable. Call: 645-2676/ 218-3647 ask for Mike. One Noah mini-bus series BSS price -$2M negotiable. Call: 687-6174 600 600 Amps automatic, transfer switches, switch gears, motors. Call: 666-6046 Dredge spares, 4" and 6" hose, conveyor belts, etc. On order, quality stuff, beat any market price. Call: 658-7553
VEHICLE FOR SALE One fielder wagon in excellent condition, owner leaving country, price $1.550M negotiable. Call: 659-5226/ 690-8889
Prime land to build that dream home. Not far from Princess, New Thriving, Massy, HJ water world $13M neg- Call: 669-8397
1 RZ minibus, excellent condition. The price is right. Call: 616-3288/233-0269/690-8247
Land in Friendship E.B.D, land size 50ftX198ft, price $3.9M negotiable. Call: 6456498
Unregistered bluebird 1500cc, 31,000KM, front wheel drive, RZ bus good working condition, owner leaving. Call: 265-0204/2652171/601-0223
Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
1 Two story 3 bedrooms concrete house, Block 8 Mon Repos -$17M negotiable. Call: 645-8543
New generator/welding plan 10KVA, 200amps, 13 horse power, diesel, silent & new 3" Troni gasoline water pump. Contact Melissa: 629-2292
2 ½ Acres riverside land, 5 Acres land with 5,000 sq.ft building, Brickery, East Bank Demerara. Call: 653-2477/ 685-6874
One used 1992 Hauler 8X6 DAF lorry, colour: green & black only used for 2 months, excellent condition. Call: 679-4675
Aubrey Barker -$27M, William Street -$11M, Diamond -$14M, Grove -$7.8M, David Street$30M, Norton -$10M. Call: 2312199/618-7483 LEARN TO DRIVE
House & land for sale, latest Toyota Tundra and Tacoma parts. Call: 646-8594
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE OFACADEMIC EXCELLENCE: Registration commenced for I.A.E Secondary school, forms 15, termly fee -$30,000. Call: 683-5742/621-7365 Rising Star Academy: Register now for kindergarten & Grades 1-4, build a strong foundation for common entrance. Call: 6770296
One Toyota Fielder, TV deck, remote, short alarm, dark interior. In good condition $1.2M. Call: 611-6632 or 6643488 One Leroy Trident. Price $250,0000, PPP series. Call: 687-6174
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Murdered Berbice Carpenter PI continues...
Former magistrate released on own recognizance
Former Magistrate, Chandra Sohan Prominent attorney-atlaw and former Magistrate, Chandra Sohan, was on Wednesday evening released on his own recognizance after a Habeas Corpus was filed by Sohan’s attorney and was granted by the Chief Justice in Berbice on Wednesday. Sohan explained that there are no grounds to institute charges against him.
“They don’t have nothing to go on to charge me”. He stated that approximately two months ago two witnesses in the case had indicated to the then prosecutor Stephen Telford that they were made to sign statements based on a promise that they would be released. The witnesses, Sohan said, would have told Telford that they did
A voir dire (trial within a trial) is underway in the murder trial of Basil Morgan. The legal proceeding is ongoing to determine certain legal issues in the matter Basil Morgan was among a gang arrested and charged for the murder of Woddete Roberts. He is currently on trial before Justice James BovellDrakes and a 12-member mixed jury at the Georgetown High Court. The trial commenced on July 15, last. Roberts, called “Woddete” or “Buck Man,” was murdered some time between November 3 and November 4, 2009. He was allegedly killed during a robbery. It is alleged that a gang had hijacked Roberts and his two friends in a Tacoma pickup Land Cruiser then took them along a trail on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. Roberts’s friends managed to escape from the hijackers but he, Roberts, was later found dead on the trail. Earlier in the trial, Crime Scene photographer, Detective Desmond Johnny, tendered several photographs taken at a crime scene for a murder which took place in November 2009. In his evidence, Detective Johnny provided the court with details of the crime scene
of Woddete Roberts’s murder. Johnny told the court that he went to a scene following reports of an alleged murder committed at Dora, Soesdyke-Linden Highway. There, the detective said that he took photographic exposures of a crime scene. A total of 57 photographs were later tendered as part of the evidence provided to the court by Detective Johnny. Spent shells allegedly collected from the crime scene were therefore tendered into evidence. Reports on the murder suggested that Roberts left his home around 21:00 hours on November 4, 2009 with two
not dictate any statement to the police. He added that about five weeks ago the two witnesses sought to retain his services stating, “they were without a lawyer in the beginning of the statement so that was the first encounter. Telford was there and I asked him if he was aware of what they are saying and he said yes”. According to Sohan, Telford had assured that he was aware and he had already informed the Magistrate. It was on that day that the then prosecutor decided to call both of the witnesses. “I just simply went up to the court with them (the two witnesses). I said, ‘Your worship the witness has something he wishes to tell the court.’ The person said what he had to say and the magistrate made a note of it. That was all my involvement in the matter”, Sohan disclosed. He opined that every person charged or is appearing in court is entitled to a council. “These people came to me; I didn’t go them,” he stressed. Chandra Sohan was placed under arrest at the Springlands Police Station for allegedly attempting to per-
Voir dire underway in trial for 2009 murder/hijacking
of his friends, in a goldcoloured Toyota Tacoma pick-up Land Cruiser. The men were said to have been on their way to the gold and diamond fields, when they were stopped by a group of men dressed as policemen. The party of policemen was said to be searching for arms and ammunition. It was some time later, that the men were hijacked by a group of men, who duct taped them and placed them in the tray of the Tacoma vehicle. While Roberts’s friends managed to escape their captors, his body was later found just off a trail at Dora, SoesdkyeLinden highway.
vert the course of justice. Meanwhile, thus far four witnesses were called to the stand yesterday and were cross examined. The PI is being done by way of a paper committal. It will continue on August 3, 2017 where other witnesses will be cross examined by the counsel representing the five accused Orlando Dickie, Diodat Datt, Niran Yacoob, Radesh Motie and Hari Paul Parsram. It was also reported that two relatives of Marcus Bisram were arrested at the court yesterday. However,
Divisional Commander Paul Williams confirmed the individuals were only detained for a short while. They were reportedly causing a disturbance at the court while the case was ongoing. Faiyaz Narinedatt’s battered and bloodied body was found lying lifeless along the Number 70 Public Road after an evening of “partying” at a well known overseas based Philanthropist, Marcus Bisram. It was reported that at the gathering between October 30 and November 1, Narinedatt rejected Bisram’s
sexual advances. Annoyed, Bisram reportedly ordered Dickie, Datt, Yacoob, Motie and Parsram to “deal with him”. He was allegedly beaten by the men and dumped on the public road to make it seem as though the carpenter was a victim of a hit and run. However, things quickly unraveled after relatives of Narinedatt insisted that their loved one was murdered. Bisram was arrested in the United States months after the murder and was placed before the courts.
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TT Govt. defends decision to seek court-appointed liquidator for CL Financial PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – The Trinidad and Tobago government yesterday defended its decision to seek a courtappointed liquidator to deal
with the assets of CL Financial company, saying it was seeking to ensure that taxpayers were not on the losing end of a TT$15 billion (One TT dollar =US$0.16 cents) inter-
est-free loan. Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley told a news conference here that there was absolutely “no malice, no conspiracy” on the part of his ad-
ministration to seek to protect the interest of taxpayers who had originally provided TT$23 billion dollars to bail out the company, whose flagship interests include Colonial
Life Insurance Company (CLICO), British American Insurance Company (BAICO) and the CLICO Investment Bank (CIB). He said his government had received ‘sound quality legal advice…which told us to go to court for provisional liquidation” and dismissed suggestions that the government was moving to have a fire sale of the companies associated with CL Financial. He said the accusation that the government wanted to sell off the companies to its friends “can’t happen. “Anything that happens will happen under the eyes of court and look at what the court has approved and you will understand that I am not just making this up. “The court has granted that provisional liquidator, who I must say is already on the job, but with specific powers under the court and of course we have to ensure whatever was gaping on doesn’t continue without the knowledge and consent of the government”. Rowley told reporters that when the first shareholders agreement was signed with CL Financial in 2009, it called for the government to provide five billion dollars to bail out of the company at an interest rate. However, he noted that
when the former government came into office in 2010, they provided an additional 11 billion dollars that did not attract any interest. He said as a result, CL Financial was under no obligation to pay back the loan as quickly as possible because there was no incentive for it to do so. “The longer they took to pay back the money the better they are,” he said, adding that the government had to be borrowing funds at interest rates to provide the funding to CL Financial and that the non-payment could lead to a further downgrade of Trinidad and Tobago and subsequently and make borrowing on the international markets even much more expensive. Rowley said that of the billions of dollars loaned to CL Financial since 2009, the government had only received a payment of TT$7.5 billion by “accident” when a minority shareholder of a methanol plant owned by the company had challenged the decision to sell off the company. “That’s the only money that came to the state,” Rowley said, indicating that the arbitrator had called for the sale of the methanol plant so as to meet expenses and the government received its hare.
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Senior Women’s Caribbean Volleyball Championships
T&T, Jamaica make dominant starts Kinsgton, Jamaica, CMC – Reigning champions Trinidad and Tobago made a resounding start to their title defence when they swept Guadeloupe in straight sets, in their opening game of the senior women’s Caribbean Volleyball Championships here Wednesday night. Playing at the National Indoor Sports Centre, they raced to a 25-8, 25-17, 25-14 victory to send a stern warning to their opponents in the eight-team
tournament which also serves as a World Championship qualifier. Channon Thompson led the scoring for T&T with 13 points, while the experienced Krystle Esdelle supported with 12 and Sinead Jack, 10. For Guadeloupe, Sandra Ramier finished with eight points. ”Overall, I’m satisfied with the performance,” said T&T head coach Nicholson Drakes. “We still have one or
two errors to clean up, one or two things to make sure we’re on top of.” He added: “We’re taking it step by step in stages and looking at what we need to deal with, what we need to implement and as the tournament continues we’ll look to make the necessary adjustments.” Hosts Jamaica, meanwhile, made a winning start to their campaign when they disposed of the US Virgin Islands
Kalisz, Dressel shine on memorable night for U.S. Budapest (Reuters) Chase Kalisz continued America’s dominance of the men’s 200 meters individual medley as the United States enjoyed a memorable evening at the world championships, yesterday. Kalisz’s win set the tone before rising U.S. star Caeleb Dressel snatched victory in the men’s 100 meters freestyle and the American quartet powered to gold in the women’s 4x200 freestyle relay. Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte had dominated the 200m medley event since 2003 and the only American in the field delivered again as Kalisz posted one minute 55.56 seconds at the Duna Arena. The 23-year-old produced a Phelps-like roar of celebration and double-arm splash to cel-
ebrate his gold medal. Kalisz said that the enormity of his task had weighed on his mind for months. ”Michael and Ryan have been the centerpieces of that tradition for over 15 years now and for me (the prospect of getting) silver and stopping that streak, it took a toll on me,” he told reporters. Japanese Kosuke Hagino, the 2013 silver medalist, had cut loose on the backstroke before Kalisz took control on a swift breaststroke leg and freestyle finale. Hagino touched for silver 0.05 seconds back. “I would’ve definitely laughed at you months ago if you had told me this was going to be my first title,” Kalisz added. “I was over three seconds slower.” There was a similar outcome in the 100m
freestyle when Dressel took off his goggles and hit the water in euphoric style after taking gold in an American record time. Dressel, 20, dominated the blue riband event from start to finish, clocking a highly impressive 47.17 seconds. Nathan Adrian secured an American one-two and Mehdy Metella of France took bronze. ”It’s nice to go one-two with Nathan, there is nothing like that, Americans on top,” an ecstatic Dressel said. “I just want to do my best every time I enter the water with the flag on my cap.” A further smile stretched across Dressel’s face on hearing that his gold represented America’s first in the 100m since Anthony Ervin’s two-lap win in 2001. China’s bid to win a hattrick of world titles in the women’s 50m backstroke was scuppered by a jubilant Etiene Medeiros of Brazil. Medeiros posted a time of 27.14 seconds as she held off defending champion Fu Yuanhui of China by 0.01 seconds in a fingertip finish. Aliaksandra Herasimenia of Belarus secured bronze. Local favorite Katinka Hosszu of Hungary had briefly lifted the arena noise to deafening heights in the women’s 200m butterfly final. Hosszu, 28, set the pace in the opening stages of a race won defiantly by Mireia Belmonte of Spain in two minutes 05.26 seconds. Franziska Hentke took silver with Hosszu landing bronze. Katie Ledecky then put the disappointment of losing an individual final for the first time at a world championships behind her by anchoring the U.S to 4x200m relay gold. Leah Smith, Mallory Comerford and Melanie Margalis had gone stroke for stroke with China before Ledecky powered away on the final leg. Their time of seven minutes 43.39 seconds was just outside the world record. China finished 1.17 seconds back and Australia took bronze.
in equally dominant fashion with a 25-16, 25-18, 25-17 straight sets victory. They were fired by Tahleia Bishop who pounded eight kills in coming away with 12 points while Sashalee Thomas and Danaisha Moss both counted 10 points apiece. I’tiana Taylor was the leading attacker for the USVI with 12 points. Head coach Ricardo Chong said the win was not unexpected and was looking forward to the hosts picking up steam. ”I am also expecting the team to get better during the tournament,” he said afterwards. “There is always a possibility of winning the championships. Trinidad and Tobago looked impressive during their game. “They
T&T’s Krystle Esdelle have weaknesses that can be exploited but we are going to take it one game at a time.” In the other matches, Martinique slammed the Bahamas in straight sets 25-15,
25-19, 25-13 while Curacao came from behind to battle to a 23-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-19, 15-11 victory over Dutch rivals Suriname, in a thrilling five-setter.
Friday July 28, 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today you might plan a quick trip by air, Aries. This could be business related. Someone else may have been meant to go but couldn't, so you may be taking his or her place.
you will remain calm today. LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) If you've been studying astrology, numerology, or any other occult science, Libra, today you might find some of the concepts you're studying a bit confusing.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) A date to get together with a romantic partner might have to be broken at the last minute, Taurus.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) A friend could be having financial troubles and ask you for a loan, Scorpio. You like this person and understand what he or she's going through, so you want to help.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Sudden and unexpected problems could have your household in chaos, Gemini. This probably doesn't relate to difficulties with your housemates. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Too many communications may prove distracting today, Cancer. The phone could be ringing off the hook and your email inbox overflowing. Everyone around you seems to be talking at once.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Some equipment that you use a lot, perhaps an appliance, computer, or TV, might go on the blink today, Sagittarius. Don't try to fix it yourself even if you think you know how. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Some rather bizarre news could come to you today about metaphysical or paranormal matters, Capricorn.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) A sudden but necessary expense could make a big hole in your budget today, Leo. Perhaps some repairs need to be made around the house or to the car.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) This could be a hectic day, Aquarius. You will probably try to go too many places and do too many things at once.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Generally you're pretty emotionally stable, Virgo. Today's events might seem to conspire to create erratic moods that you aren't used to feeling. It's the only way
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You might hear some rather b i z a r r e r u m o r s t o d a y, Pisces. Someone has misinterpreted a piece of information and blown it into something far different from reality.
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Chase Academy overcome Christianburg Wismar on PKs Annai snatch injury time winner against DC Caesar Fox By Zaheer Mohamed Defending champions Chase Academy and Annai will clash in the final of the Digicel Schools’ Football Championships on Sunday after recording semi final victories last night at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora. Chase Academy defeated Christianburg Wismar 5-4 on sudden death penalty kicks in the first semi final while Annai came from 4-0 down to beat DC Caesar Fox Secondary of Waramadong 7-5 in four minutes of added o n t i m e . Chase Academy dominated the opening proceedings and Jeremy Garrett put them ahead in the 26th minute when he beat goalkeeper Nicholas Gentle with a free kick from 35 yards out. Moments later Gentle handled the ball outside the box, but Garrett sent his free kick into the wall before Omar Brewley of Christianburg Wismar sent a close rage shot wide of the net. Christianburg Wismar found the equaliser when Omar Brewley calmly beat
Jeremy Garrett (right) is being congratulated after scoring Chase Academy’s opening goal.
Sase Norville with a free kick from outside the box in the 37th minute. However, Chase continued to dominate possession and Kevin Padmore handed them
the advantage once again when he headed home a corner from Shemar Smith in the 45th minute. Jehu Regis drew Christianburg Wismar level
as he slotted home from inside the area in the 56th minute. Jernel Williams, Ryan Hackett and Stephon Reynolds of Chase Academy were all denied by Norville
Floyd Mayweather v Conor McGregor: Tickets on StubHub for $150,000 It is being billed as the biggest (and possibly richest) fight in combat sports history - and tickets are on sale at eye-watering prices. When former fiveweight boxing world champion Floyd Mayweather and UFC lightweight titleholder Conor McGregor step into the ring at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on 26 August, some 20,000 people will be in the arena. The scrap for tickets during Monday’s release was intense, short-lived and disappointing for the majority. But will anyone be willing to shell out $150,000 (£115,000) to be there? Ti c k e t r e s a l e w e b s i t e StubHub has tickets on sale at that price, with several others at a comparatively cheap $100,000 (£75,000). American Mayweather, 40, will come out of retirement to face McGregor in the 29year-old Irishman’s first professional boxing bout. M c G r e g o r ’s l a c k o f experience has led to some criticism of the bout, from
Dana White (centre) hoped to keep tickets out of the hands of brokers. which both men are expected to earn as much as $100m ( £ 7 8 . 4 m ) . UFC president Dana White wanted to avoid a repeat of Mayweather’s 2015 bout with Manny Pacquiao, for which many tickets fell into the hands of brokers. His solution was to sell seats through Ticketmaster, with each purchase limited to two tickets, and any transaction only possible with a code issued to Ticketmaster m e m b e r s . But codes - priced at $200 (£153) - were quickly available to buy on Ebay, allowing non-members to
access Ticketmaster, where prices ranged from £385£7,706. StubHub is yet to sell any of the tickets listed by users at $150,000, and told BBC Sport $3,265 (£2,500) is the average price at which seats have changed hands. The cheapest ticket available on the site - for a position in the upper tier, in a row yet to be determined - is $1,875 (£1,433). Speaking earlier this week, White said: “A lot of shady things can go on with tickets, as if they aren’t expensive enough. ”The fight is making enough money, you don’t have to go
around and sell the tickets to brokers. Everybody is making enough money stop. “I wanted everybody to buy their own tickets. I’m buying my own, as are Conor a n d F l o y d . ” Mayweather Promotions has negotiated a deal to broadcast the fight in 400 cinemas across the US - and organiser Fathom Events told BBC Sport it expects “sold-out auditoriums” at an average cost of $40 (£31) a seat. It is estimated the combination of pay-perview revenue, ticket sales, sponsorship, merchandise sales and receipts from cinema ticket or closed circuit television venues will generate about $600m. The number of pay-per-view buys will prove pivotal in whether the bout becomes the richest of all time. Mayweather’s bout with Pacquiao - regarded as the richest in history, with total revenue of about $623m (£476m) - had 4.6 million buys. (BBCsport)
in the latter stages, sending the game into penalties. Garrett, Hackett, Jermaine Garrett, Cecil Jackman and Padmore were on target while Shemel Smith missed his shot for the defending champions while Brewley, Regis, Jamiane Kingston and Kevin Dare converted for Christianburg Wismar in their first five shots; Andre Mayers and subsequently, Javier Smith missed their shots. The second game provided much more entertainment for the fans that turned out in their numbers. It had flair and flavor and the pace was awesome throughout the riveting contest. Waramadong dominated the opening proceedings and Reon Mc Naughton, theior most prolific scorer handed them the lead four minutes into the game when he found the back of the nets from the left side of the area. He doubled the lead in the 12th minute from inside the box before Alvon Hunter made 3-0, four minutes later when he was afforded much space inside the box. Annai took some time to get into their strides and found themselves trailing by four goals as Nadir Walker found the back of the nets with a powerful free kick from about 35 yards out in the 28th minute. By then many had
already written off Annai, but that was just the beginning of what turned out to be one of the most exciting games this tournament has ever witnessed. Sherral Daniels handed Annai their first from inside the box in the 35th before Naidison Daniels further reduced the deficit three minutes later when the collected a pass from the midfield and slotted home from just on the edge of the area. Following the interval, Javin Castro of Waramadong found the back of the nets with a long range shot in the 56th minute before Naidison Daniels netted his second for Annai in the 59th to make it 5-3. Annai matched their opponents in every d ep ar tmen t an d n ev er showed any signs of exhaustion, and Vasco Cabral scored their fourth goal in the 74th minute following a string of passes. One minute later the busy Naidison Daniels found the equaliser after some creative work in the midfield. Waramadong players got a bit tired as the game progressed, but managed to hold on for the ninety minutes, until Annai snatched two goals in injury time to seal their final berth. Orville Daniels scored in the second minute of added time while Sherral Daniels netted his double one minute later.
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GTA’s annual Olympic Day Taekwondo Championship The Guyana Taekwondo Association (GTA) recently held the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) sponsored Olympic Day Taekwondo Championship in observance of Olympic Day 2017. The competition saw athletes participating in various divisions of the Poomsae (forms), Aerial Kicks and Gyrugi (fighting) categories. In the children’s Aerial Kicks category, Khadeeja Taljit, Tejindra Ramcharran, Arvinda Comacho, Ezekiel Kellmon and Anthony Thom kicked off the action. However, it was Tejindra Ramcharran who showcased an array of brilliant kicks landing him the first place spot with Khadeeja Taljit the lone female in Group A in second place. Arvinda was third, while Ezekiel Kellmon and Anthony Thom shared the 4th place spot. In Group B, Rodwin Court ended in first place followed by Ricardo Ramlall and Anthony Court in that order. In Group C it was 5-yearold Vivek Bassoo who took first place followed by Emma Mandall second. First in Group D was Shibraj Jacob with Arshad Ali coming in second. In the Gyrugi children’s category, the action heated up with KhadeejaTaljit
battling it out against her two male opponents and when the action settled, it was Ezekiel Kellmon who emerged victorious, f o l l o w e d b y Te j i n d r a Ramcharran in second place and KhadeejaTaljit, place. Khadeeja Taljit was congratulated by all the coaches for her bravery and the good fight she put up. In Group B, Anthony Thom emerged victorious followed by Arvinda Comacho and Ricardo Ramlall Group C action saw the tiny tots battling it out with the top spot going to Emma Mandall after putting up a good fight against her male counterparts. Second was Shibraj Jacob and Vivek Bassoo, third. The top three athletes in Group D were Rodwin Famey, Anthony Court and Arsdad Ali. In the Poomsae category which attracted the big boys and girls, Sasha Singh led the way in the Mixed Division, followed by Akbar Singh with Sarah Singh in third place and Olivia Facey, fourth. This was followed by the Intermediate Males competition which saw first place going to Dishon John ahead of Ronaldo Fernandez. In the Female Gyrugi category, it was young Sasha Singh who earned the winning spot by
Participants of the Guyana Taekwondo Association Olympic Day Championship pose with their trophies and Coaches. the slimmest of margins, a single point, over Olivia Facey with Sasha Singh settling for third. In the Mixed category, it was Akil St. Hill who took first place while Shenique Bourne took second in both the Poomsae and Gyrugi categories. In the Junior Boys category, Randy Ali led the charts both in the Poomsae and Gyrugi categories which saw his brother settling for second place. The Beginners Males
division saw Randy Deochan claiming the first place prize while Akbar Singh took second. David Brown emerged as the best Intermediate Male winning ahead of Dishon John and Ronaldo Fernandez, respectively. The finale saw two senior males battling it out with both displaying a series of advance kicks with Wayne Forde kicking his way to the top spot, Brian Woolford was second. According to the GTA,
this competition was successfully coordinated by Coach, Ms. La Toya Herbert who had fun working with all the participants, judges and coaches. Herbert expressed thanks to all the instructors who offered their support. Gratitude was also extended to the Guyana Olympic Association, Coach-Master Ramjeet Ramphal, Coach-Master Roy Bacchus, Coaches, Alim Azimullah, Trevor Bassoo and Kawall Ramkiran as well as the
others would have contributed towards the success of eh event. Meanwhile, the public is being reminded that the G u y a n a Ta e k w o n d o Association training facility is located in Woolford Avenue, above the Guyana Teacher ’s Union Hall. Classes are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 17:30hrs to 19:00hrs. For further details contact can be made with Ms. La Toya Herbert on 6702615.
Reggae Boyz fail in title bid as US clinch Gold Cup win
Jamaica’s Je-Vaughn Watson (3rd right)) celebrates his goal with teammates. (Photo: AFP) Santa Clara, United States, CMC – Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz suffered heartbreak for the second straight CONCACAF Gold Cup when a late goal sent them to painful 2-1 defeat to United States in the confederation final here Wednesday night. With the game an open
affair heading into the dying stages, Jordan Morris fired past substitute goalkeeper Dwayne Miller with just two minutes remaining in normal time, to send the largely partisan crowd at Levi’s Stadium into celebration. The title for the Americans was their sixth in the competition following
successes in 1991, 2002, 2005, 2007 and 2013 while the defeat kept the Caribbean powerhouses, who lost the 2015 final to Mexico, without a title in the confederation’s marquee tournament. Jozy Altidore had earlier given the hosts a 45th minute lead heading into the break before Je-Vaughn Watson
restored parity five minutes on the other side of the break. Both sides traded chances for the next half-hour until Morris’s lethal strike late on. ”That was like a dagger in the heart,” said Reggae Boyz head coach Theodore Whitmore. J amaica s uffered a massive blow in the 19th minute when captain and goalkeeper Andre Blake was forced out with a hand injury. The Philadelphia Union custodian, easily his country’s best player of the tournament, pulled off a trademark stunning save in the 19th minute from a longrange shot from Altidore and then also saved from the feet of Kellyn Acosta on the rebound. However, Blake sustained a painful hand injury courtesy Costa’s boot, forcing the 26-year-old out of the contest. His replacement Miller was powerless to keep out Altidore’s shot as time ticked
away at the end of the first half. Following Romario Williams’ foul on Michael Bradley, Altidore stepped up to send a superb free kick from about 10 yards outside the box over the wall and into the upper right-hand corner. Jamaica found a response early in the second half to bring the game back to deadlock. Kemar Lawrence swung in a corner in at the far post and Watson peeled away from his marker Morris to tuck his volley past Tim Howard. Miller then kept the
game square with a couple of great saves, swatting away Morris’s shot from the top of the box in the 73rd minute before also denying Clint Dempsey’s header three minutes later. However, Morris broke the deadlock and Jamaica’s hearts when substitute Gyasi Zardes raced down the right and sent a cross into the box which Jermaine Taylor deflected in an attempted clearance. The ball nicely for Morris for who curled his shot past Miller from 16 yards out to grab the winner.
Sterling Products/EBDCA T20 matches on this weekend Matches in the Sterling Products sponsored East Banks Demerara Cricket Association T20 competition are set for the Laluni ground this Saturday and Sunday. Tomorrow from 09:30hrs, Laluni will entertain Bayrock and from 13:00hrs, Bayrock will again be in action, this time against Combined United. On Sunday at the same venue and times, Herstelling A will come up against Rome Athletic followed by a clash between Providence and Nandy Park.
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Banks DIH backs Green Machine in battle for Rugby Americas North overall title against USA Panthers -Scrum-off is 14:00hrs at National Park Track and Field facility tomorrow Guyana’s national men’s Rugby team popularly known as the “Green Machine” will be seeking to re-enact the script from 2014 when they overcame USA 30-27 in extra time at the Life University facility, USA to claim the RAN 15s overall title. Tomorrow, in the Land of Many waters, the “Green Machine’ will host the USA Panthers and the visitors will be seeking to exact revenge when they take to the National Park Track and Field Facility. Banks DIH through their Coca Cola brand has thrown its support behind the Guyanese once again, as they did when the local ruggers hosted and defeated Trinidad and Tobago on June 10 last to reclaim their RAN South Zone title for the third successive year. The local ruggers were expecting to play Mexico for the overall title but the North Americans suffered a shock defeat to Cayman Islands in
their last game of the season and awarded USA Panthers the rugby Americas South zone title. The Panthers arrived last night and were scheduled to begin training this morning for the 2014 RAN 15s overall title rematch which will scrum off at 14:00hrs, tomorrow. At yesterday’s sponsorship handing over ceremony at the Banks DIH boardroom, Thirst Park, Public Relations officer of the company Troy Peters related that he is looking forward to see this team, “Green Machine” in full swing. ”Coca Cola and Banks DIH are behind Guyana’s Green Machine. We saw this team’s full potential when they made light work of Trinidad last month and we are looking forward to Saturday which promises a lot of action.” USA Panthers will comprise of a strong 31-man team for this match that will
be officiated by Dave Sherwin (Referee) along with Justin Colgan (Assistant Ref 1) and Kevin Merilee (Assistant Ref 2). Speaking at the launch, Patron of the Guyana Rugby Football Union, Kit Nascimento explained the importance of the Guyana vs. USA Panthers game. “This game is the equivalent of the CONCACAF Gold Cup”. USA were fortunate to edge Jamaica on Wednesday night but Nascimento predicted a loss for the nation. He noted support as key, “Guyanese, let’s come out and support the Green Machine as we seek regional supremacy in Rugby” he related. ”Green Machine” Captain, Ryan Gonsalves, stated that he is aware of the Physical advantage the USA Panthers team holds. That team comprises of even larger players than Trinidad & Tobago which Guyana defeated for the Rugby Americas North, South Zone
title. Gonsalves said that the “Green Machine” hasn’t been able to do much physical training “With the weather, the team has been focusing on the technical aspect of their game”, he added. With the opportunity of playing at home, Captain Gonsalves exclaimed delight, “Playing a team like USA at home in Guyana is very motivating, knowing that we will have the home crowd on our side. It is much, much better than having to play Mexico at home.” Guyana was pegged to play Mexico for the overall title but they suffered a shock defeat to the Cayman Islands and gifted USA Panthers, who were trailing on points closely behind, the title. Coach of the GRFU 15s team Shane Grant-Stuart said that he had not seen a lot of the Panthers team and that there is not a direct plan but, “I am confident of the squad. We have guys that can play
GAPF hosts RAW Nationals on October 1st next
Tinesha Toney Since the introduction of the RAW or Classic format of powerlifting, it has taken Guyana by storm and will once again the center of attraction when the Guyana National Powerlifting Federation brings off its Nationals.
Carlos Peterson competing at RAW Nationals in September 2016. This is set for the National Gymnasium come Sunday October 1st, 2017 from 07:00hsr when the weigh-in will be done. Competition time is set for 09:00hrs and lifting will take the form of flights. The likes of Carlos
Petterson, ‘Big’ John Edwards, Vijai Rahim, Farouk Abdool, Phillip Romalho, Demetri Chan, Martin Webster, Sohail Hussain and Romario Gonsalves among others will be in the limelight. On the distaff side, the
likes of Nadina Taharally, the mother and daughter combo of Jackuelyn and Tineisha Toney and Britny Mack among others are expected to be on the platform battling for the top spots even as they aim to set new records.
throughout the 90 minutes and on the day we will make adjustments based on the way the game plays out.”
Kaieteur Sport is orging all Rugby fans and supporters to come out and support our Green Machine tomorrow.
UWI on the ball with Faculty of Sports The University of the We s t I n d i e s ( U W I ) launched its Faculty of S p o r t We d n e s d a y, signalling a move to have a greater impact in the development of sport in all areas in the Caribbean region. The UWI has four campuses — Mona Campus in Jamaica, Cave Hill Campus in Barbados, St Augustine Campus in Trinidad and Tobago and the Open Campus. The latter has no defined location, but its services are offered in a number of territories throughout the region. Dr Akshai Mansingh will head the new faculty after he was selected to do so in June of this year. His appointment takes effect on August 1. Dr Mansingh is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine physician and is also a graduate of the UWI. As dean of the new Faculty of Sport, Dr Mansingh is responsible for its overall academic and administrative management, including its financial affairs. He is also expected to represent the faculty on all relevant Campus and UWI boards and committees. Speaking at the launch, Dr Mansingh, who is also a renowned cricket commentator, said: “Sport for too long has been a pastime in the region. Just about every country in the region has produced a superstar in cricket. The flow of superstars has continued as Jamaica has blazed the track since 1948, continuously. ”This is not just a Jamaican phenomenon, as over the past two decades or so we have had a host of Bahamians and medal winners from small countries such as St Kitts and Nevis (Kim Collins, 100m world champion) and Kirani James of Grenada proving that this
phenomenon is regional.” ”The creation of the Faculty of Sport gives an opportunity to bring together all of the creative and scientific minds of the region, while harnessing the leaders in sports and all aspects of sports from throughout the world to offer this support to the athletes,” Dr Mansingh continued. The Faculty of Sport marks the first faculty to be established at the university in 40 years, the last being the law faculty. The University Council approved its recommendation at the its annual meeting in April this year. Since then a task force was convened to implement its structure. The task force has determined that the UWI faculty will comprise four academies of sport — one on each of the four campuses. The academies will be made up of three units, namely an academic programme and activity unit; a professionals programme, outreach and projects unit; and a cocurricular and intramural activity unit. The faculty, which becomes operational in the 2017-2018 academic year, will offer certificate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Sports Business, Sports Management, Sports Science, and the Art and Science of Coaching. Speaking on the appointment of the new Dean and the establishment of the new Faculty of Sport, vice-chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, said: “This is a seminal moment for our university and its region. We are fortunate to have in Dr Mansingh a colleague who possesses the ability to lead this new initiative on multiple fronts — teaching and research, industry partnerships and professional development.” (JamaicaObserver)
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CONCACAF Women’s U17 Caribbean Qualifiers Guyana will begin their campaign in the CONCACAF Caribbean Women’s U17 Qualifiers on Wednesday, 9th of August at the National Track and Field Facility, Leonora against the Barbados national team. This will be followed by a Barbados – Cuba clash on Friday, 11th August and a Guyana – Cuba match on Sunday, 13th August to wrap up Group D matches. In a release from the Guyana Football Federation yesterday, it noted that the local team will be boosted with the appointment of an international Goalkeeping Coach, Hope Clarke, and three international players, the latter scouted by the newly-appointed International Women’s
Friday July 28, 2017
Overseas players and GK Coach to be added Guyana’s squad Coordinator, Paul Beresford. Clarke is the Head Coach of Wo m e n ’s F o o t b a l l a t Georgia College and holds a United States Soccer Federation “B” License and a National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Goalkeeping Diploma. According to the Georgia C o l l e g e ’s “ B o b c a t s ” website, Clarke is one of the most successful coaches in the history of soccer at Georgia College. This is even as the National U17 Women’s team wrapped up their two-week camp on Saturday last and prepares to head into their final camp from the 1st – 8th August under the leadership of Head Coach Akilah Castello. Clarke and the new players will join the squad at the
Hope Clarke commencement of the final camp. While in Guyana, Hope will also conduct coach’s education sessions with the two female national coaches, Castello and Tricia Munroe. Technical Director, Ian
Greenwood, in summing up the last camp had said that while more technical work has to be done, Guyana being host of the tournament will be a boost for women’s football in the country. ”In terms of our group itself, we know it’s very, very strong. We’ve got Cuba who is obviously a powerhouse in football. Barbados has got a very good women’s programme and it has been going for a lot of years. ”We’re very much in the building stage; Coach Akilah and Coach Tricia are very much aware of what we’re trying to achieve, which is to improve the technical skill and game understanding among the players,” Greenwood added. Greenwood, in commenting
on the development objective of the tournament said: “We want to use this tournament to expose the female team to international competition and build them over the next few years, take them on tours to places such as Suriname, Trinidad and Barbados. Exposure is the most important thing that we need. There is no other way you can get around that apart from playing games and participate in tournaments, which we are looking to do. I’d really like to stress that the tournament is free, we wish the public show up at the games, look at the girls and show all the support to them.” Guyana is among five nations hosting the group stages of the tournament
including St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago and St. Lucia. The competition will be hosted in two phases: the Qualifying Group Phase and the Qualifying Final Phase. According to the regulations, the qualifying phase of the Caribbean competition shall be played separately within the Caribbean, thus providing the agreed representation for the 2018 CONCACAF 2018 Wo m e n ’s U n d e r - 1 7 Championship. Three teams from the Caribbean zone qualify automatically to the 2018 C O N C A C A F Wo m e n ’s Under-17 Championship, the two finalists and third place winner in the qualifying final stage.”
Inaugural ‘Top Ten’ Educational Scheme hosted by RHTY&SC Cricket Teams The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club (RHTY&SC), and its eight cricket teams recently held their first ever Top Ten Educational Scheme to honour the outstanding top students for Region Six at the recent National Grade Six Exams. The programme was held at the St. Francis Community Developers Training Hall with Speaker of the National Assembly delivering the keynote speech. Addressing an audience of over 400 club members, special invitees and students, Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster informed that the main objective of the Club is to ensure that every youth fulfills his/her potential in sports, education and culture. The Club, he stated decided to host the awards as it was very impressed with the performances of schools in Region Six and announced that it would become an annual event. Despite being mainly a cricket club, the RHTY&SC operates the largest Say No/Say Yes Programme for an NGO in Guyana as it strives to get youths to Say No to Drugs, Crime, Suicide, A l c o h o l a n d Ye s t o Education, Religion, Life and Sports. The Top Ten Awards was
Seven of the Awardees pose with Ms. World Guyana Vena Mookram. sponsored solely by the eight cricket teams and each of the awardees received a trophy, medal, framed certificate and educational materials. Noting that Education is the key to a successful future, the veteran Club Administrator urged the youths to develop a culture of reading, research and listening. Secondary School, he stated is far different than Primary School and there would be temptation to follow the wrong path.
Foster advised the attentive youths to choose their friends carefully as true friends do not encourage you to skip school, to consume alcohol, to engage in pre marital sex or to be disrespectful to your elders. He said that the club was willing to assist students if needed and pledged to invest even more in the educational sector. Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland spoke widely on the importance of Education and the linkage of
youths, education and sports. Dr. Scotland congratulated the awardees and urged them to remain focus on their school work. The Top Ten students of Region Six are Matthew Ramlochan - Belvedere Primary, Yadram Totaram No. 56 Primary, John Ramdin - Cumberland Primary, Allyssa Griffith Cropper Primary, Denish Somai - Tain Primary, Dimitri Williams - All Saints Primary, Sherisa Chaturi Port Mourant Primary, Nick
Rama - Crabwood Creek Primary, Purnima Totaram Sheet Anchor Primary and Medeina Lionel - All Saints Primary. The top students will attend Queen’s College, will were awarded Bishop’s High School while has earned a place at St. Stanislaus College. The eight cricket teams in September would be hosting a Region 6 Top Teachers Programme where close to $500,000 worth of trophies, medals, certificates and cash prizes would be
distributed to six outstanding teachers. The top teachers at both the Primary and Secondary levels would receive $100, 000 each while the 1 R u n n e r- u p w o u l d g e t $50,.000 each and 3 place, $25,000 each. The eight teams are Farfan & Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Females and Gizmos & Gadgets Under-21 and First Division. st
rd
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GABA/Powerade/ Rainforest Water/ Malta Supreme tourneys Matches continue tonight at CASH
Eagles’ Kevin Higgins keeps a close eye Colts’ Jafar Gibbons. There were three games each on Saturday and Sunday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall when the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA), Powerade/Rainforest Water/ Malta Supreme, 1st, 2nd and under-23 division tournaments continued. On Saturday, defending Under-23 champions Colts brought an end to Eagles’ unbeaten run with a huge 30 point, 73-43 demolition. Colts’ Jafar Gibbons led with eth game high 19 points. Game two on Saturday saw Nets edging Kobras by one point 62-61 in the first division. In the third and final game of the night, defending first division champions Bounty Colts continued their winning ways with an easy 78-58, 20-point win over Pepsi Sonics. On Sunday in the initial 2nd division match-up between Pacesetters and Sonics, they former enjoyed a huge victory, 98-40 continuing the woes of Pepsi Sonics in the league. In game two, reigning second division champs, Bounty Colts added another win to their list, a 70-62 triumph over the University of Guyana Trojans. In the feature match of the night a division-one match-up, UG Trojans suffered a second defeat of the night, this time to Plaisance Guardians, 88-47. The tournament will continue tonight with two matches at the cliff Anderson Sports Hall. The first will see Kobras bouncing against Pacesetters in the Under-23 division and Colts taking on UG Trojans in a second division clash.
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Chandina Khan is new Miss Fitness Paradise Gym Chandina Khan made a clean sweep of the field last Sunday at the Theatre Guild Playhouse when Fitness Paradise Gym held its Annual Gym Expo event. Winning the Miss Bikini and the Miss Best Legs events, Chandini Khan has definitely emerged as one of the finest female physiques the country has ever produced.
This year’s contest was much more demanding than previous editions since the ladies were required to execute a Stage 1 that involved cardio and endurance exercises as well as a written examination based upon a Manual that they studied. Chandini faced competition in the Miss B i k i n i f r o m Te n i c i a DeFreitas, Delice Adonis
and Andrea Jacobs. In the Miss Best Legs first time competitor Melitha Anderson impressed the crowd with the muscular development of her thighs and graceful posing. She placed 2nd overall. Also new to the field was Angelica Holder who gave a classy and elegant display. The win by Khan has won her a passage and accommodation to Suriname
to participate in the Eddy Wilson Classic which comes off on Saturday September 23 at Congress Hall in Paramaribo. Given her well-sculpted physique Ms Khan, who six months ago was a chubby newcomer to Fitness Paradise Gym, will be looking beyond Suriname to a more challenging Bikini field in regional and extraregional competitions.
Chandina Khan
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Guyana lose to Puerto Rico Guyana’s Kevon Wiggins (#4) tries a jump shot even as Puerto Rico’s Francisco Ramos (#7) challenges.
Guyana suffered its second loss in as many matches when Puerto Rico trounced the nation’s young b a s k e t b a l l e r s 4 8 - 11 5 yesterday at the Centrobasket Under-17 championships being played in the Dominican Republic. Kevon Wiggins, like he
did in the first game against Bahamas which the Guyanese also lost led the scoring with 15 points while Akeem Crandon contributed 10 points also pulling down 11 rebounds. Puerto Rico was led by Gianfranco Grafal who poured in 23 points.
The Guyanese will close out Group play today when they oppose Mexico which defeated Bahamas 83-75; the Bahamians had beaten Guyana on day one, Wednesday, 114-63. Leading Guyana was Wiggins with 32 points, Nigel Bowen contributed 13.
t r o Sp Banks DIH backs Green Machine in battle for Rugby Americas North overall title against USA Panthers -Scrum-off is 14:00hrs at National Park Track and Field facility tomorrow
Coca Cola Brand Executive Ms. Jennifer Khan, hands over the sponsorship cheque to Captain Ryan Gonsalves in the presence of other Union and Banks DIH officials.
Chase Academy overcome Christianburg Wismar on PKs
Omar Brewley #12 beat Chase Academy goalkeeper Sese Norville to draw his team level.
Naidison Daniels scored a hat-trick for Annai.
Annai snatch injury time winner against DC Caesar Fox 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