Kaieteur News
PAGE 04
Friday July 27, 2018
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
TRAINING OUR YOUTHS
T
here continues to be a discernible high level of frustration and anger among youths in this country, especially the uneducated, poor and jobless. Too many are committing crimes in order to survive. This is evident in our daily newspapers and other media outlets. Others have been promised employment, only to realize that they have essentially been fooled by the power brokers who have now gotten what they want and have changed course. While some youths have vented their frustration toward society, others are striving to achieve political leadership against all odds. This is commendable, given that a large number of them voted in the last elections. Despite the fact that youths are the majority in the country, only a few are in positions in the government and decision-making structures such as the cabinet and Parliament. This is a far cry from what was promised to them during the election campaign. Having political ambitions is all well and good for youths, but there is cause for concern as regards to how they will be groomed. There is real fear that they will be schooled in the same old partisan, divisive, racial and vindictive politics that will ultimately see them mirroring the politicians whom they would replace. The fear becomes worse because none of the political parties in the country have any real formal systems or mechanisms in place to train youths. Youths are needed on the political scene, but they must be taken seriously by the leaders of the main political parties. Their beliefs and aspirations to become leaders must be guided by the principles of democracy. They should not subject themselves to the autocracy of their respective parties’ hierarchy. However, it is known that in recent times most youths are not always willing to toe the party line or engage in rabid partisan dialogue, because they have witnessed or believe that partisan politics has stifled the development of Guyana over the past 50 years. They want to be holistic leaders who will move the country away from the tunnel vision that would have existed in the past. Therefore, ample training by the established parties would perhaps provide the right balance for real and genuine political leadership that is needed to develop the economy and unite the country. It would provide the ideal opportunity for youths to practice politics without biased overtures. Partisan politics is also at the root of much of the economic and social disparities between the rich and the poor as well as in the education system. It has created a dysfunctional society. Most of the politicians today were taught to practice partisan and racial politics, to the detriment of society. This is evident in most government departments and agencies, many of which are staffed with personnel from the party in power. Partisan politics is destructive to society, in the sense that it has unsettled stability. There are no laws to prohibit anyone from having political affiliations or from practicing or being engaged in partisan politics. However, it would be in the best interest of the country for all political parties and civil society groups to begin the dialogue to transform the political system into a non-partisan structure. The leaders of the two main political parties should refrain from practicing partisan politics in order to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. They should start the process of schooling the young politicians in the art of non-partisan political strategies and equip them with the tools for effective and visionary leadership to transform the country. This should be the minimum standard.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
The absence of the GuySuCo Board is worrying DEAR EDITOR, The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) cannot help but once again express concern that the Government’s largest enterprise – the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc (GuySuCo) – has been operating without a Board of Directors for several months. Information reaching the Union indicates that nearly half a year has gone by since the Corporation’s last Board meeting. Media reports had indicated Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, last saying that the Board would have been appointed at the end of June, 2018. We
recall prior to that he had said that the Board would have been in place by the end of May, 2018. Previously, there were other timelines that were set and simply ignored. The shifting goalpost by the Minister and the Administration, for us, is extremely worrying. It serves to demonstrate, in our view, that a glancing concern, if so much, is paid to the operations of the sugar industry and the well-being of the thousands who still depend on the industry for their livelihood and wellbeing. We firmly believe that the naming of a Board of GuySuCo is a task not as
difficult as the Government is making it out to be. Therefore, we are at a loss for the protracted delay in the appointment of the Board especially at a time when the Corporation requires decisive and competent leadership. At this time, when the Corporation has secured a $30B bond financing package aimed at turning the industry around, the absence of a capable Board is especially disturbing. Quickly a Board should be named having recognized that so far, to the best of our knowledge, no plan has been presented that will guide the expenditure of this
significant sum which has to be repaid with interest. Recognizing that serious deficiency we see the need for the urgent appointment of a Board to guide the Corporation at this time. The GAWU, once again, calls on the Government and more so, Minister Holder, to bring the charade to an end and to appoint a capable, competent and respectable Board that will enjoy the support of the workers and that will be able to guide and lead the Corporation at this time. Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU
More attacks on the Guyana Prize for Literature DEAR EDITOR, I am delighted to respond to Mr. Al Creighton’s letter ‘’Guyana Prize took variety of initiatives to assist writers living here July 12, 2018 (Stabroek News). He responded to my question about the delay of the award ceremony for last year, that’s a year now lagging behind because of a lack of funding from the government. How does he expect me to know that? May I ask? Yet he compares this incompetent prize to literary awards abroad. This Prize was established in 1987 by President Hugh Desmond Hoyte when this nation was actually the poorest in the Western Hemisphere and one wonders why this Prize for Literature in a starving nation. Maybe Desmond Hoyte had a motive to invite the literary brains that migrated abroad for publication and literary exposure. When Wilson Harris won the Guyana Prize in 1987 Mr.Hoyte asked Harris to remain here to work. Harris told Hoyte his offer was not lucrative enough. I believe Hoyte had a political motive behind the Guyana Prize for Literature. T h a t ’s w h y t h i s n e w administration should scrap this Prize and use the money to educate our young scholars. Since the inception of the Prize in 1987, Mr. Al Creighton has been the Secretary and Administrator of this Prize for 30.5 years. May I say he is the Judge, Jury, and executor of this Prize. I don’t know of any
award in this world where they will ever retain the service of one man or woman for over thirty years. My major contention of this award was the incestuous clique of judges alternating as judge one year then entrants— winners the next year, monotonously like a spinning perpetual ‘’yo yo’’ and he has the mind to tell the Guyanese people that this practice of judges becoming entrants is a normal procedure with literary awards abroad. That is absolutely ridiculous.In my opinion, any literary award in the world where judges are alternating as entrants is a fraud that needs to be scrapped. If the Nobel Prize committee can award Bob Dylon the award above Sir Wilson Harris, that is very questionable. Sir Wilson Harris was cheated by the
Nobel Committee. In 1987, the very first year in which the Guyana Prize was established, Dr. Ian McDonald, distinguished literary critic, and author, was the Chairman of the panel of judges and a member of the management committee. In 1992, Dr. McDonald became an entrant for the prize and emerged a winner in the poetry category with his c o l l e c t i o n o f poems–Essequibo. He subsequently entered again for the prize in 2004 and won the award for the second time with his poetry collection–Between Silence and Silence. He has won the prize four times as a former judge and Chairman of the management and he can win again. His entries should be disqualified but for Al. Creighton it is OK so it
means if Mr.Creighton should resign as the secretary for thirty years he can submit an entry and win the award next year. Mr.Editor, I am currently a judge for the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2018. I was sent a twelve-page judging criteria for this award from Cambridge University. That’s very confidential; no one in my family read it and no relative or my children can be an entrant. So as a senior judge, how will it look if I submitted an entry next year for this award? I cannot because I am barred from entering. Mr. Creighton cannot see the morality, ethics, and integrity of this spurious literary award because he has compromised the standard of this award to give it to an incestuous clique of friends (Continued on page 5)
A critical window of opportunity for Guyana DEAR EDITOR, There is a current wave of optimism regarding upcoming dialogue between Guyana’s President and Opposition Leader, initiated by former US President Jimmy Carter. Expectations by civil society, social commentators, the private sector and politicians as a whole are very high. These meetings are expected to address a range of issues affecting the forward movement of the country. It can be agreed by any right-minded Guyanese that the pooling of intellectual resources and ideas are critical to Guyana’s transformation and development. But perhaps the greatest derivative of these meetings would be a consensus on the most effective utility and investment of imminent revenues from Guyana’s oil bonanza. Guyanese locally and in the diaspora have been cautiously optimistic about the fruits of
the oil and gas industry, partially due to the absence of a clearly outlined plan. There have been variances in views by operatives on both sides of the political divide as well as private sector bodies as to the most suitable way to spend these monies, and these meetings can provide a platform for a fusion ideas and proposals regarding this very critical sector. Irrespective of which side of the political spectrum we find ourselves, this is an opportunity for us to sit with our leaders and channel our ideas upwards to ensure that the best models are considered at the highest level. It must be remembered at all times that our political leaders are merely elected stewards who oversee what is in effect ‘our wealth’ and we have a duty to ensure that this is done in a way that benefits the country today and in the future. Regards, Andrew McBean
Kaieteur News
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REPUBLIC BANK AND THE DEAL ON WHEELS PROMOTION
In support of the Clifford Krauss’s article
Friday July 27, 2018
DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me this letter in your column to share a frustrating experience at Republic Bank Water Street Branch. On 9th May, 2018. I took time off from my job (2 hrs), sacrificed my extra morning rest since school’s out, to have a space in the loan section knowing how that particular department is always crowded. I went to the Loan Officer produced all my relevant documents; Job Letter, Pay slips, Contract of employment, Confirmation of employment etc, only to hear I am not qualified for the Loan due to my one-year employment contract and having eight months left on the current one 2018. The Officer further mentioned once the loan approves I will have to pay $35,000 a month on $255,000 to purchase a new Motorcycle since my old one is of age and breaks down a lot. I said to her that my salary is small and I cannot afford that amount. I got up and walked away because from my observation they didn’t make an effort to assist in any small way. Now tell me this Mr. Editor, how am I to know the Bank’s bylaws states only Permanent employees and contractual employees, maximum three to five years, are qualified for a loan? Republic Bank needs to educate the public about its bylaws regarding their promotional loans. After realizing I would not get through I fur-
ther withdrew my entire $100,000 I had secured to process the loan, went to Jialing and made a down payment on my new motorcycle. Republic Bank does nothing to help the small man only the big kahunas which most times produce fake documents, the loan is approved and they disappear without a trace. I joined Republic Bank since age 16 when my father opened the Early Savers Junior Account at Water Street, the only Branch when the name was National Bank Industry & Commerce (NBIC). I never forgot that name, being a customer for 16 years and this is the Treatment. I will soon depart. Republic Bank is not considering that back in 2014, I lost my job when I had outstanding payments for a loan I had applied for and was approved. I received a call enquiring about payments. I m e n tioned to the officer at that time that I am not working to pay off the balance owed. She then said they would have to take me to court. At that moment I was waiting on a call to be interviewed. I got through and worked with the highly scented chemicals with my pregnancy just to pay off my outstanding loan and wow! Surprise! Republic Bank does not care and have no feelings and compassion about their loyal customers. Republic Bank should change that logo “We’re the one for you”. This is not the first or
second time Mr. Editor. First it was at the Camp Street location. I further requested to have my file transferred to the Water Street branch thinking that that would help the situation since the staff at Camp Street branch Loans Department treats me the same way. But I ran from the coffin and meet up with the jumbie. I am a small woman; I do not work for a large salary. That is why I am deeply frustrated and upset that my very bank into which all my money from my job is paid —salary, gratuity, vacation allowance—could not have granted a loan of $255, 000 to assist me to purchase a new motorcycle. For just that small amount then I will soon no longer be that loyal customer anymore. Republic Bank should quash their Deal on Wheels promotion since it is a waste of time. My advice to the General Public, “Do not waste your time and effort to go and secure a loan for any transaction whether deal and wheels or not.Once you’re not a permanent worker or on a three to five-year contract you’re not eligible and qualified. Even the Christmas loans are the same run around. I do not have gifts and toys to secure my loan or have it approved. I leave this quote for Republic Bank. The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others. (Albert Schweitzer). Frustrated Customer
More attacks on the Guyana Prize for... From page 4 along with some scapegoats, incompetent writers, here in Guyana who have written ‘’literary pornography’’ to receive US$5000 for ‘blue book’ literature. I am calling for a COI into this award that’s a fraud and I am willing to take the stand against Al Creighton and his corrupt committee to defend this award for the rights and dignity of our Guyanese writers who are robbed and cheated by corrupt and compromised judging. Maybe we need a referendum in parliament to scrap this award I am willing to debate it pro bono. In closing, I wish to quote
from a past Guyana Prize winner Ryhaan Shah from her Guyana Times Sunday Column July 22 captioned ‘’Revamping the Guyana Prize’’.‘’The Prize appears to be controlled by cronies who alternate as judges and winners, thus keeping the prize and monies awarded within a favoured clique. I had no interest in having my work judged by a prize committee whose integrity was questionable’’ It takes a very honest mind to pen these words after reading this debate between myself and Mr. Al Creighton. This Prize needs keen scrutiny from the government that cost millions for the Good
of this Nation this government must do the honourable thing scrap The Guyana Prize for Literature. Regards, Rev. Gideon Cecil (Author, Poet & Literary Critic)
DEAR EDITOR, I read with amusement the outcry over the Clifford Krauss article in the New York Times called ‘The $20 Billion Question for Guyana’. From reading the article I deduced that it was an opinion piece and the reporter was not on assignment from an encyclopaedic outlet to gather facts about Guyana such as: population, number of regions, ethnic make-up, exports and imports etc. Opinions are not facts and are based on such things as perceptions, values, lifestyle and the environment in which someone lives or is exposed to. I found the pronouncements which garnered much criticism such as, “Guyana is a vast watery wilderness with only three paved highways” to be decorative in nature and the opinion (which can be
good or bad) of a person based on perception. Maybe, Mr Krauss lives in an urban environment/concrete jungle. The definition of ‘Highway’ varies depending on the source material and locality from all roads including bridges to a main road, especially one connecting major towns or cities. At the end of the day visitors can judge for themselves how many highways we have or better yet the relevant authority can make this information known. Guyana is known as the land of many waters and some lakes and bodies of water in other countries are like big drains for us. The country is also carpeted by large swathes of rainforest. According to The National Development Strategy for Guyana document (online) about 90 percent of the country’s popu-
lation lives in the coastal zone which comprises only about 7.5 percent of its total land area. I have read reviews of visitors who described the landscape of Guyana as being like a giant broccoli when viewed from above and thought they were landing in the jungle when arriving at the Cheddi Jagan International airport. Even some of the most visited countries and cities in the world such as Egypt, London, Paris and New York receive the worst criticisms from visitors, well-known bloggers and reporters with daily online comments ranging from ‘terrorist infested’, ‘crime-ridden’, ‘dirty and polluted’ and ‘do not go there!’. A poor person from Guyana who lives in the countryside and never stayed at a hotel may find a three-star (Continued on page 6)
RECOGNISING SIMONA BROOMES MR. EDITOR, The average Guyanese does not know this Minister named Simona CharlesBroomes. She passes as a kind and caring Minister always looking out for the have nots in this nation. But truth be told, she is always fighting for the underdogs. It is a constant battle because nothing happens in this country without a fight. This has moulded Minister Broomes into one of the fiercest fighters Guyana has produced. She has fought many battles in this country, starting as a teenager when she fought men in the mining industry to make a living as a woman. Whether it is a security guard holding a rifle or a cougar in the jungle, Minister Broomes has always stood up for her rights and fought against what she believes to be wrong.She fought for gold miners against the PPP government, leading a demonstration that shut down Bartica in 2010. She protested against the
2011 disputed election results and was in the demonstrations when police opened fire on protesters. She joined the fight in Linden when the police fired on protesters in 2012; she led a team of supporters from Georgetown to feed and refresh the protesters who blocked the road into Linden. She fought for women and children in the mining industry, she fought against human trafficking; she fought against the misdeeds of the PPP government and she has constantly been fighting as a member of this Government for the Guyanese workers, human rights, small miners, exploited and abused women, etc.etc. This little spat with those security officers is just an example of the kind of woman and leader the Minister is.
The security guards made the mistake of putting the obstacle in the path of the Minister’s vehicle, an error that could be forgiven if they had ‘stand down’ when they realized it was a government official. Instead they persisted. Well the Minister came out, represented herself and the rest is in dispute. I for one love that; it makes me proud to be a Guyanese woman. We need women to stand up to these men and demand to be treated with respect. I wish Guyana had more leaders like Minister Broomes. The world, our neighbours and our men would be forced to treat this nation and its people, especially its women with respect. Thanks Mrs. Jones
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Kaieteur News
BUSH RUM SOLD UNDER THE NOSES OF THE POLICE DEAR EDITOR, Much to my surprise an ugly situation linked to lawlessness that affects adolescents as well, now prevails in my home village at Suddie Housing Scheme in Region Two. I found this situation after returning from a neighbouring country some five years later. Law enforcement agencies in the district are culpable for the predicament. Before leaving by the backtrack route for Venezuela it was all peaceful and quiet. Now here is an illegal activity by an adult woman just next door to two serving members of the Guyana Police Force (G.P.F) and in close proximity of the Suddie Police station. It is getting me crazy. The woman who also lives a few houses away from the Deputy Vice Chairperson for the Region is engaged in open selling of Bush Rum and shop rum. She is a large scale dealer operating from her home many underage persons make purchases and imbibe there as well. While it is against the law for a juvenile to make purchases of any alcoholic beverage from a
licensed shop, alcohol can be made readily available from the “illegal selling” of the commodity with detrimental effects more so the youngsters. Undoubtedly, the woman is doing a lucrative business in violation of the law but who must protect the society from such barefaced and disrespectful actions?Could it be that the woman is paying to get protection somewhere along the line as it would appear to be? But should this be the case, well then, it would be more of an encouragement to enhance an unlawful act rather than to suppress it. A vigorous appeal to protect the community not as a favour but duty bound is being made for the police and the Customs and Excise Department to take the appropriate action against the perpetrator. From the public standpoint, it looks really bad. It is a disgraceful and shameful reflection for the law not being enforced to protect the interest of the state. Yours truly, David Clarke
A DESPERATE CALL TO PRESIDENT MR. DAVID GRANGER DEAR, EDITOR, Please permit me a spot in your newspaper and effectively an opportunity to appeal to Hon. President Mr. David Granger so that he may put an end to the current lawlessness and nepotism which seems to have infected the top brass of the Guyana Police Force. I make reference to a Kaieteur News article dated July 22, 2018 and headlined “Inspector transferred after refusing to take Top Cop’s call on civilian’s phone “. I was disheartened when I read of yet another officer being penalized for just doing his job, the job he’s paid to do via taxpayers’ money. I am acquainted with the officer in question and from what I know, the Guyana Police Force is all he knows. Being a policeman and upholding the law is his passion. I take several issues with the action taken by the Commissioner (ag), 1) Why did the Commissioner (ag) request to speak to the Inspector via a civilian’s phone? Proper practices and chain of command were not followed. The Commissioner (ag) had four others senior officers through whom he could have had his request expedited namely the Divisional Commander, the Deputy Commander, the Divisional Crime Chief as well as the Divisional Traffic Chief. 2) When did it become ethical for an Inspector of Police, with thirty-four years of service under his belt, to answer the telephone of any civilian caught in breach of the country’s laws, just because he purports to have a ‘boss man’ on the line?
Honorable Mr. President, it brings me to retrospect to just a few weeks ago, when another rank with whom I am also acquainted, DSP Stephen, a man I consider to be of merit and of high standing, was also transferred along with a Sergeant of Police for reprimanding a priest with a dark tinted vehicle and devoid of the relevant documentation for such a vehicle. It is ridiculous to me that a priest who should be leading by example so that others may follow, should be caught infringing on the very laws the Bible compels us to adhere to, just b e c a u s e h e knows some people in high places. Total nonsense. When will the acting Commissioner desist from bringing such disgrace and disrepute to the ranks of the Guyana Police Force, his brothers and sisters in arms? When will he cease from damaging the morale of those who have taken an oath to serve and protect? Although I am of no political affiliation (as I have chosen not to exercise my democratic right to vote), I have always held and shall continue to hold former P r e s i d e n t , t h e l a t e M r. Hugh Desmond Hoyte, in the highest of respect and esteem as one of the fairest and most unbiased Presidents in Guyana’s history. Many of us would recall the rioting and looting which took place subsequent to the 1992 General Elections which saw Mr. Hoyte and his government ousted from office. Although the rioters were allegedly supporters of Mr. Hoyte, he unequivocally and
publicly condemned their actions. In layman terms, he had the audacity to call a spade a spade, a trait which seems to be void of the Guyana Police Force as well as the nation in its entirety. Honorable Mr. President, as a son of this soil, I am a born Guyanese and when I die my ashes will be spread over this land. It pains me as I envisage the psychological miasma that now envelopes every facet of day to day life in a land I so endearingly call “God’s Country”. Although I did not vote (as I mentioned above), I was elated when you took office in 2015, because I was and I still am of the firm belief that you possess the qualities and discipline to restore order back to the land of my birth, Only you can right the wrongs and bring about a reinstitution to the rule of law. I’m appealing to you, Honorable President, do what is right, do what is just and correct the wrongs being done by these ego-maniacal narcissists who have found themselves in high positions. I stand in solidarity with all those who have fallen prey to the indiscretions of these ‘Adolph Hitlers’ and ‘Josef Stalins’ who have by some inexplicable twist of fate, ascended to the realms of authority. I leave with you these words once uttered by the Irish statesman Sir.Edmund Burke “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil, is that good men do nothing”. Concerned Citizen & Son of the Soil
Friday July 27, 2018
WHY HAS SOCU NOT INVESTIGATED THIS CURRENT GOVERNMENT? DEAR EDITOR, Aid from England to strengthen the Guyanese security sector can be seen on paper as a noble and laudable gesture. Its presence is very visible at SOCU headquarters in the form of two British Nationals: Mr. Sam Sittlington and Mrs. Sheronomie James. Regardless of their official portfolios, it is common knowledge that these two persons now dictate the policy and direction of this semi-autonomous department of the Guyana Police Force. Both of these persons have strong ties to the ruling party. As recently disclosed under cross-examination, Mrs. Sheronomie James was a senior member of the government-sponsored audit team that produced reports that form the basis of the criminal charges presently engaging the courts against PPP-connected defendants. Having reported these wrongdoings, she is now ridiculously tasked with investigating these reports to determine their credibility. She was therefore determined by the court to lack the independence to give an expert opinion of these very reports.Mr. Sittlington’s toasting with one of the main antagonists of the PPP on the day of the arrests of senior PPP executives speaks for itself. Contrary to the organization’s raison d’être the scope and function has been insidiously evolving from the investigation of money laundering to perceived transgressions by PPP persons. The following features of SOCU are noteworthy; (1) All of the senior professional police investigators originally attached to SOCU have been gradually removed and replaced
(2) None of the top ranking members of SOCU now have any experience in police investigations. (3) It is indisputable that most of SOCU’s energies have been, and continue to be, focused on perceived transgressions by persons connected to the political opposition. (4) The Commissioner of Police and The Crime Chief do not have daily operational control over the operations at SOCU (5) The DPP is now placed in a position that effectively removes her as the constitutionally empowered supervisor of criminal proceedings undertaken by SOCU. In this environment, the rhetorical question is:Is there any reason why SOCU has failed to investigate similar and very public allegations of financial wrong-doings by the current regime?The disingenuous argument of Mr. Sittlington is that no such formal reports have been made to SOCU. What he has failed to disclose is that under his policy direction, there is no mechanism in existence at SOCU for anyone other than the ruling regime to make a formal report. What is in existence is an official book referred to as the Government book in which reports are made.This begs another question: Is England supporting and propping up the ruling party by trying to attack and weaken the opposition? History tells us that the founder leader of the PNC benefitted tremendously from England’s interventions against the PPP around our independence. Is history repeating itself? Mike Singh Sr.
In support of the Clifford Krauss’s article From page 5 one in New York to be fancy and grand whereas a New Yorker from Manhattan may complain about the temperature of the water, insects in the room and peeling paint. Most visitors to Guyana from North America and Europe would head straight to our interior without spending much time in Georgetown because they want something different such as bird watching, visiting Amerindian villages and trekking through the jungle. From reading Krauss article, I can assume that he visited our interior region. There may be children travelling via canoes to school and running around barefoot. I did not find the description offensive, there are rural parts of Guyana where children play like that. Did the reporter visit the entire country and how long was his stay in Guyana? He most likely wrote about the places he visited, things he saw and made conclusions based on interviews with the locals. As a Guyanese living in this country my entire life I can honestly say that experiencing daily blackouts has become normal for me. I do know that there are parts of Guyana particularly in the interior region where people do not receive electricity because I experienced this myself on visits to these areas. Not so long ago I read in the local newspapers that our suicide rate is among the highest in the world. Then I read that one of the measures to be implemented so as to not ‘inspire’ others to commit suicide would be the non-reporting of cases in the media. I believe this is happening because I cannot recall any recent case in the newspapers but I am aware of people who have committed suicide through the local grapevine. What is our present rating? The newspapers inform the nation about many happenings. I gathered through the media that Guyana has one of the highest rates of ‘brain drain’ in the world and that over 80% of University graduates leave the country for greener pastures. Are we no longer experiencing a ‘brain-drain’? Also, not so long ago I was again informed
through the media that the HIV infection rate in Guyana was one of the highest in the western hemisphere and that we were just behind Haiti. Every day, we read reports of robberies and the victims lamenting the poor response of the police. I believe many persons would recall these things when asked and maybe ‘add in a bit’. From seeing documentaries online and reading news articles with western reporters I noticed that much time is spent interviewing locals and getting their take on things rather than pouring over official documents in government offices. Mr. Krauss’s entire article is an opinion piece based on his perceptions of what he saw and interviews with locals and the few officials. The most important aspect of his article though has to do with corruption and what can happen with our newfound oil wealth. Every Guyanese is aware of corrupt practices and the media report on it daily. While people were criticising Krauss’s article well known columnists were highlighting ‘shithole’ (exact word used in one case) practices occurring daily. How many corrupt politicians have we jailed? Neighbouring countries and the wider world hold their public officials, including very popular ones, to a higher standard and apply the full force of the law when they step out of line yet in Guyana there are two sets of rules. The politicians are allowed to behave like dictators who are above the law due to their ‘importance’ and status of being better than the regular Guyanese while the ordinary people have to toe the line. At this moment we hardly get tourists who do not have Guyanese roots. As the country becomes wealthier people will come and write about it with both positive and negative articles. It is all window-dressing and has no real impact on those who live here. What does matter and what will determine whether the ordinary Guyanese will be able to enjoy the good life like the politicians is whether we allow corruption to fester and rob us of a bright future without doing anything about it. Yours faithfully, Name Withheld
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 27, 2018
GTU ‘still clueless’ after Head of State’s vague response to teachers’ salary concerns Even after a response from President David Granger, the executive of the Guyana Teachers’ Union [GTU] is no closer to knowing when an agreement will be inked, to facilitate the processing of a multi-year remuneration package for public school teachers.This publication has learnt that a response from the Head of State comes on the heels of two letters forwarded to him from the GTU on the very matter. An initial letter to President Granger was written by GTU General Secretary, Ms. Coretta McDonald, and a subsequent one was crafted by the union’s President, Mr. Mark Lyte. Both letters sought to enquire of the Head of State about the reason[s] for the delayed remuneration package for teachers and also queried about a timeline for its realisation.But Lyte in an invited comment to this publication yesterday said that the union is still clueless even after assurance by the President that the Ministry of Education will keep it [the Union] informed on the matter. “The union wrote the president twice pertaining to the outstanding matter. He responded by saying the Ministry will be informing us of the outcome, but did not state any specific timeline, which is what I think is the problem...our membership need to know how much longer they have to wait,” Lyte disclosed. He continued, “That is something that is of concern to us, we need to be able to relate to our members as to what time we will be expecting to see or hear something specific.” According to Lyte, “the President did not even state by when we will be hearing from the Ministry of Educa-
tion.” This is in spite of the union’s effort to detail to the president the protracted wait that teachers have already had to endure. At the end of 2015, a previous multi-year agreement inked between the former government and the GTU came to an end. As a result, the union presented a proposal for a new multi-year agreement to the current government. Entailed in the proposal were, among other things, a 40 percent across the board increase for teachers for 2016; 45 percent increase for last year and 50 percent for this year and the following two years (20192020) for all categories of teachers. “We highlighted clearly to the President how long teachers have been waiting,” said Lyte, as he alluded to the dissatisfaction of its membership with regards to the way in which the matter is being handled. He made reference to recent protest action by a faction of GTU’s membership to retaliate because of the perceived slothful approach to addressing the concerns of teachers. “They felt that enough
President David Granger was not being done and they took action, so in the last week of school they started to protest. That is an indication of the direction the membership will be directed to, should there be a continued delayed in the signing of a satisfactory agreement, and in a timely fashion,” Lyte intimated. He moreover revealed yesterday too that “if we see nothing happening when school is about to re-open, the union will probably be mandated by its members to take some form of action.”
GTU President, Mr. Mark Lyte
The only information released by government on the matter in recent weeks was through Government spokesman, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, who at a PostCabinet press briefing said the report of the Task Force which negotiated a remuneration package for teachers had to be further scrutinised by the Ministry of Finance. Lyte, as well as General Secretary McDonald, and several government representatives were among the persons who made up the Task
Force which was required to fast-track negotiations for the teachers’ remuneration package. The work of the Task Force started in November and culminated in April. The establishment of the Task Force was in fact a directive of President Granger in his attempt to thwart strike action which was instigated by the union because of stalled salary negotiations between the union and the Ministry of Education, which commenced in 2016. Speaking of the report of
the Task Force recently, Harmon said that Cabinet was expected to review the document, since some financial implications were highlighted by the Ministry of Finance. But Lyte in response to the Minister of State’s comment had said, “it really baffles me to know that they are surprised to know that whatever the Task Force was looking at would have financial implications, because it is no secret that this very government admitted that teachers were underpaid”. He’d continued by adding, “This very government saw the importance of debunching monies and other salary benefits [for teachers]...so how is it now that they are making a statement to say that, when that is a foregone conclusion, and whatever was coming out of the Task Force would have had implications.” Lyte had further shared his opinion that the statement uttered by the Minister of State seemed to indicate a lack of desire on the part of government, despite the efforts of a Task Force that it had appointed, to pay teachers their just deserts.
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Kaieteur News
Union formed to improve lives of seafarers
The livelihood of seafarers is expected to improve with the formation of new Guyana Seafarers and General Workers Union (GS&GWU). The body was on Wednesday officially introduced to stakeholders, the public and other mariners at the Umana Yana location. General Secretary of the GS&GWU, Simone Fortune, said the union was formed to provide representation to Guyanese seafarers and bridge the existing gap between them and their employers. Fortune said with the growth of the maritime sector, the union will be placing emphasis on a number of issues to enhance working conditions for fishermen and women. These include improving workers’ compensation, wages and other benefits, living accommodation onboard, meals, safety equipment, and resting hours, among others. “The development of the maritime sector is very important in our economy and emphasis should be placed on ensuring that our hardworking, risk-taking seafarers are protected,” Fortune said. The General Secretary explained that since the registration of the union in March this year, over 400 members have been registered. She noted it has also successfully negotiated with the fishermen’s organisation in Berbice to become a registered organisation with the union and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). Fortune is encouraging all stakeholders to become au fait with the laws and regulations guiding seafarers, in order to make informed decisions when dealing with those in the maritime sector. President of the GS&GWU, Oswald Prince
General Secretary of the GS&GWU, Simone Fortune
GS&GWU President, Oswald Prince stressed the important role seafarers play in the country while noting that most of them go unnoticed. “From today, the GS&GWU will do its part in sensitising our seamen and the public of seafarers’ rights, so in the future, they can be will be properly represented.” He encouraged seafarers to take advantage of the union
through membership and to work with the union to further improve their livelihoods. In December 2017, a group of concerned and qualified seamen, with a focus to provide representation for all seafarers, local and abroad, formed the GS&GWU. It was registered and launched in March 2018 in New Amsterdam, Berbice.
Friday July 27, 2018
SOCU money-laundering cases in jeopardy
‘High Court ruling presents big challenges in accessing suspects’ bank records’ – Ramjattan A High Court ruling has dealt a big blow to state agencies pursuing financial crimes, as it affects investigators who require access to bank records for money-laundering suspects. The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) had appealed to the High Court that Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan has no power to make an order to inspect and take copies of entries in a banker’s book where there is no cause or matter before the court. Justice Fidela CorbinLincoln ruled on July 12 in favour of GBTI. The ruling sent shockwaves throughout several state agencies, including the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) which is currently investigating dozens of cases of corruption, some involving former Government officials. Essentially, banking details of customers suspected of money laundering are necessary for the investigation of suspects who have not yet been charged. In fact, it is upon the production of the banker’s book that police investigators, including SOCU will be able to inspect, take copies, and gather sufficient evidence to institute charges against suspects. The ruling raises many questions as the Evidence Act, Chapter 5:03 states under Section 12 (1) that on the application of any party to a cause or matter, a court or judge may order that the party is at liberty to inspect and take copies of any entries in a banker’s book for any of the purposes of that cause or matter.
Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan Further, Section 12 (2) states that the order may be made either with or without summoning the bank or any other party, and must be served on the bank three days before it is to be obeyed, unless the court or judge otherwise directs. Responding to questions posed by Opposition Member, Clement Rohee in the National Assembly last Thursday, Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan informed of the court challenges mounted by GBTI against SOCU investigations. SOCU has been trying for months to get access to bank records. He pointed out to the MPs that GBTI has filed several applications contending that Section 24 of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act Chapter 10:11 does not provide for the production of the banker’s book. “We have had some court rulings at the High Court level that have ruled that the Magistrate has no power to make an order to inspect and take copies of entries in the banker’s book and this is another big challenge. The productions of banker’s books are necessary for the investigation of money
laundering offences as you would appreciate,” Ramjattan stated. Appearing to indicate Government’s plan to appeal the High Court ruling, Ramjattan explained, “We feel there may be need…depending on the Upper Court’s ruling now, whether we can get from the Acts certain amendments. There might be another plan and strategy to ensure that we get money launderers.” The Minister disclosed that for 2018, there were nine money laundering referrals to SOCU which are being investigated. Additionally, he stated that there were eight referrals from Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) for money laundering investigation with the predicate offence being narcotics trafficking. SOCU, according to Ramjattan, received no referral for government corruption in 2018. “The Government corruption we are talking about was as a result of the forensic audits that found corruption. These involved more than 300 separate investigations for which 60 investigations have been completed resulting in 142 criminal charges before the court,” Ramjattan stated.
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 27, 2018
How democratic is local government?
P
olitics is ‘politricks’. You expect the Opposition to be critical of the government; you expect the government to be regularly patting itself on the back. True to form, the government was patting itself on the back at the launching of an old discredited forum, known as the National Conference of Local Democratic Organs (NCLDO). The NCLDO is an old communist relic of the past, patterned after the Cuban system, and which was regularly held during the rule of Forbes Burnham, only that back then it was called the Local Congress of Local Democratic Organs. The AFC+APNU government was in its element at yesterday’s gathering. At the forum, the government boasted about its role in the restoration of local democracy. It spoke about respecting the autonomy of local democratic organs and about making them less dependent on government. But what really is the state of local government today? How much has changed since local government elections were held in 2016? And how much influence is the government still wielding over local democratic organs? The government says that by holding local government elections after an absence of more than twenty years, means that it restored local
democracy. What the government does not admit is it shared culpability in the non-holding of local government elections during the PPPC rule. The PNCR cannot disclaim its share of responsibility for the nonholding of local government elections. The PNC did not hold local government elections from 1970 until 1994. And the reason is that the PNC was quite comfortable with dominating every inch of the political space in the country. The PNCR also cannot absolve itself of responsibility for the non-holding of local government elections after 1994, because it was the PNCR and the PPPC which were bogged down in differences over the type of electoral system which should employed. The PNCR wanted a 60/40 split between constituency and PR representation and the PPPC wanted the reverse. But because the PPPC was in power, it is convenient to heap all the blame of the deadlock in negotiations on the government side. The fact of the matter is that the present 50-50 split still allows for the main political parties to dominate local government elections. If the APNU+AFC is truly interested in putting power into the hands of the people, it would allow for a full constituency system for local government elections. But the
two main parties know that if they agree to this, it would slacken the grip they have on local government. The APNU+AFC government makes claim to wanting local democratic organs to be autonomous. Really? The appointment of Regional Executive Officers (REOs) is being used to strangle the autonomy of Regional Democratic Councils. There are many cases in which the REOs are acting as laws onto themselves and at the behest of the administration. If the government is serious about local government autonomy, it would allow the regions to appoint their own REOs, rather than impose these persons on the regional democratic councils. The government is wielding control and frustrating the work of regional government through its control over Regional Executive Officers. All governments, PNC, PPPC and APNU+AFC, have been very comfortable keeping local government weak. They are comfortable in having the navel strings of local democratic organs tied to the government. All these governments have been more concerned with control rather than autonomy. The fortunes of local democratic organs have not changed because of local
BREXIT poses bigger regional sugar market opportunity in UK
R
egional sugar producers are lobbying hard to the United Kingdom to take more of the swe e t e n e r, especially in light of the Brexit situation. According to the Sugar Association of the Caribbean (SAC), its board members met with representatives from the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States ( A C P ) - s u g a r p r oducing countries on 6th July in London, to discuss future market access to UK, postBREXIT. BREXIT is the impending withdrawal of the United Kingdom (UK) from the European Union (EU). In a referendum on 23 June 2016, 51.9% of the participating UK electorate voted to leave the EU; the turnout was 72.2%. Chairman of the ACP/ LDC Group, Philip de Pass, outlined developments to date. “EU reforms of the sugar market concluded last year have seen imports of cane
sugar from traditional suppliers collapse. They are already down 55% compared with 2017/18 and 74% compared with 2013/14. ACP countries have been left substantially worse off than anticipated and the accompanying measures programme designed to help them has not had the desired impact.” The official said that BREXIT is a once in a lifetime opportunity for traditional suppliers to the UK to retain a share of their traditional market for sugar. S A C ’s board representative, Mac M c L a c h l a n commented: “CARICOM sugar producers are now fa c e d w i t h t h e prospect of the loss of opportunity to export to their largest historic market – the UK. BREXIT offers UK policy makers an opportunity to support development partners in the Caribbean and wider ACP – and to create a level playing field for cane
and beet refiners, where domestic production constraints permit a market environment which continues to provide UK consumers a continuing choice of cane sugar, or to lose this opportunity at the expense of some of the poorest farmers in the world.” The UK opportunity for sugar is about 1.8 to 1.9 million tonnes per annum. Its local beet producers currently produce some 1 – 1.4 million tonnes per annum. As a result, there is an opportunity for ACP and LDC sugar industries of 500,000 to 900,000 tonnes. G u y a n a is c u r r e n t l y barely making it past the 100,000-tonne mark after the Coalition Government closed four estates in the last 18 months because of poor production, mismanagement, falling prices and aging factories. T h e f o u r e states Skeldon, Rose Hall, Enmore and Wales - are up for privatisation and divestment.
government elections. The local democratic organs are still limited in what they can do. They do not enjoy independence as is being claimed, and the main reason for this is that they are unable to stand alone on their feet. Some municipalities such as Georgetown and Bartica are benefitting from the largesse of the government. Bartica has been most fortunate, since it is attracting the support of government, and because of this, has secured international financing for a number of projects. But this support by the government has not
extended to all the municipalities, another example of how controlling the government has been. The PNCR has also been frustrating the work of at least two Regional Democratic Councils, by having its members disturb meetings which then have to be aborted. If the PNCR was really serious about local democracy, it would discourage this practice of bullyism. Unless local democratic organs can be liberated from government control, all the talk about local democracy is
hogwash. If the government is serious about local democracy, it would change the local government electoral system to dispense with the domination by the main political parties; give full freedom to local authorities to increases rates and taxes, and allow the councils to elect their own Regional Executive Officers.
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 27, 2018
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
It should, but it won’t be Anil Nandlall
I
am asked the question often since Jagdeo chastised Charles Ramson Jr. for his announcement of wanting to be the PPP’s 2020 presidential candidate – who do I think would be the best presidential candidate for the PPP. On each occasion I said I was not interested in making a choice. I don’t know who will be the candidate, but this I know – Jagdeo’s voice will be decisive in the outcome. Last week, while delighting ourselves at a fish and plantain chips lime, Dr. David Hinds and I were going through the names that are being talked about – Anil Nandlall, Irfaan Ali and Frank Anthony. I told David I have a choice if those are the three names that have been agreed upon by PPP leaders. Even though I have a name, I would like to see a woman lead the PPP and PNC in the 2020 election. I would choose Nandlall. I don’t know the other two and I am not familiar with their talent and leadership qualities. It would be wrong for me to identify someone whose record I cannot speak of. This does not mean that Ali and Anthony are not bet-
ter leaders than Nandlall. Just as I know the background of Nandlall, another analyst can make a case out for Ali or Anthony. I believe Nandlall’s tape controversy has hurt him. Whether it will derail his presidential bid, I am not certain. It would appear since the tape scandal his political stock has increased, because of the incessant mistakes of the current government. Plus, he is the point man for the PPP’s legal challenges to the government. Such activism must help his standing. We in Guyana tend to forget politicians’ sins quite quickly. Here is something about Nandlall that I told David. I believe, of the current players in the PPP’s hierarchy, Nandlall has a more lending ear about working class complaints. I have always known him, long before he became a politician, to be someone who was willing to help a human rights cause. This is one of the qualities of Nandlall that I think is not broadly stained on the character make-up of the other contenders and other PPP leaders. As I told David, it may be the way he grew up in Annandale.
As my student, I predicted that Nandlall would make a highly competent lawyer. When I took UG to court in 1996 for lack of transparency in the selection of law applicants, he came on my radar immediately. I remember that morning very well and I remember the first words that came out of my mouth and his mouth. In other words I can recall the conversation very well. I said, ‘I need you to do a case for me but I don’t have a cent’. He smiled and reacted in a weird way. He told me he heard Vic Puran was forming a political party, so why am I not interested in politics. I wasn’t interested in that direction of the conversation, so I brought him back to the court case. He agreed. He won the case for me and we renewed our familiarity from our UG days. One day I ran into him and just by chance, I told him I was getting older and my daughter was growing, and it was time to leave the hectic ambience of South Georgetown. And to my surprise, he said that he knew of a plot of land in a high-priced area that was going cheaply.
It is where I currently live. He did all the legal papers. One day he drove on the construction site and handed me an envelope. It had $50,000 in it. He said it was his contribution to the building of my home. The frequent letter writer, GHK Lall, said he knows of three businessmen who financed the construction of my home. I guess he meant Nandlall was one of them. I parted company with Anil when he became a PPP powerhouse. We had to, be-
cause I thought that Jagdeo was even more authoritarian than Burnham. From thereon I hardly met or talked with Anil. I believe he has far more leadership qualities than his two rivals and should become the presidential candidate if there is no dynamic female contender. I don’t think he will get Jagdeo’s approval. Anil considers himself to be too intellectually smart to have Jagdeo controlling him and Jagdeo knows that. Jagdeo is
Frederick Kissoon going to pick a second Ramotar, meaning someone he can control and dictate to. Jagdeo knows that he cannot carry such an approach to Nandlall. I wish Anil the very best in his political future.
DEM BOYS SEH
Man want jail rescue him When people want to play bad dem does seh that jail ain’t mek fuh cat and dog. And dem does use dem words when people tell dem that if dem behave bad de jail guh find dem. Nuff young boys who smelling dem sweat does tell dem parents de same thing. Nuff mothers see dem son walking de wrang road and would tell dem how de jail gun pick dem. Yesterday, dem boys see a man who ain’t frighten jail. Now when a man prefer jail than to live outside. It mean that things really bad wid he. Guyana jail is probably de wuss place anybody can be. It got de wuss food; de prisoners got to sleep pun cardboard or pun a piece of sponge. Some does sleep pun de bare concrete. De food is something else.
Don’t ask fuh fry fish. Pepperpot is lang water and couple bone. That is why prisoners does cry when is Christmas.This man been in jail and get release. He come out and go to a policeman and cuss. De policeman get vex and charge de man. Dem boys was in court when de matter reach de magistrate. Dem hear de man begging de magistrate fuh send him to jail and dem couldn’t understand. Dem see people who buss cry when dem get sentence to jail. Dem had a cameraman from Babbie Ramroop TV station who when he get jail, cry till a prison warden had to tell him he gun mek heself sick. Some of dem does try to get away. One set break out of de jail and is only luck mek some of dem get ketch. Now dem boys want to know why when
people trying to break out of jail dem got people who want to go in and live. This man beg de magistrate fuh send him to jail. De magistrate already got a problem because de jails does full up quick and de government ask fuh alternative sentence. But this man beg and de magistrate oblige. She give de man one month. When de man was going down dem boys hear he cussing de magistrate. He talking bout these people and how dem mekking joke. Dem boys believe that outside more hard than in de jail. Inside, de man got a roof over he head, he got a place to lie down and he getting he meals. He even getting medicine if he sick. Fuhget woman. Dem got substitute. Talk half and see jail as a place of rescue.
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 27, 2018
Top Venezuelan officials arrested in Miami for US$1.2B oil money By Jay Weaver and Antonio Maria Delgado (Miami Herald) A web of former Venezuelan officials and businessmen was charged in Miami Wednesday with operating a massive $1.2 billion international money-laundering racket funded with stolen government money that was invested in South Florida real estate and other assets. The defendants are accused of embezzling funds from Venezuela’s vast oil income and exploiting its foreign-currency exchange system to amass illegal fortunes in the United States and other countries, according to a federal criminal complaint. The complaint describes a Venezuelan government culture in which officials, politicians and businessmen connected to President Nicolás Maduro and his predecessor, the late Hugo Chávez, have plundered the national oil company, PDVSA, to enrich themselves while impoverishing the South American country. “Venezuela’s state of social, political and economic crisis, in which multibillion-dollar corrupt and criminal ecosystems thrive, drives rivers of criminal proceeds through South Florida,” says a Homeland Security Investigations affidavit filed with the complaint in Miami federal court. “[It] has become an international money-laundering hub and a desirable destination for well-to-do foreign criminals and kleptocrats.” The complaint names eight defendants and lists nine unidentified co-conspirators. Among them is a German national arrested Tuesday at Miami International Airport who manages “banking” activities for numerous Venezuelan officials and kleptocrats. Matthias Krull, 44, a Panamanian resident who also worked as a banker in Switzerland, made his first appear-
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro waves before delivering his annual message to the nation in Caracas on Jan. 21, 2015. FEDERICO PARRA AFP/Getty Images ance in Miami federal court on Wednesday and has a pretrial detention hearing on Monday. Another defendant, Gustavo Adolfo Hernandez Frieri, 45, a Colombian-born naturalized U.S. citizen, was arrested in Italy on Wednesday and is expected to be extradited. He is accused in the complaint of using his Miami financial firms, Global Security Advisors and Global Strategic Investments, to launder money with false mutual-fund investments. Other defendants are expected to be arrested in the sprawling case, which was filed by federal prosecutor Francisco Maderal. But apprehending some won’t be easy because they are likely to be in Venezuela, which has a hostile relationship with the United States. Among the other named defendants: Carmelo Urdaneta Aqui, the former legal counsel to the Venezuelan Ministry of Oil and Mining, who the complaint says bought a condo at the Porsche Design Tower in Miami; Abraham Edgardo Ortega, the former executive director of finance at the state-owned oil company, Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A.,
PDVSA; and Francisco Convit Guruceaga, a Venezuelan businessman who is often referred to as “Bolichico,” or member of the “boliburgues,” the country’s elite. Another key figure in the alleged ring: Jose Vincente Amparan Croquer, a “professional money launderer” in Venezuela with investment relationships in Spain and Malta. The alleged money-laundering conspiracy began in December 2014 with a currency-exchange scheme to embezzle $600 million from PDVSA obtained through bribes and fraud, the complaint says. The defendants used an associate, who would later become a confidential source for the feds, to launder a portion of the PDVSA funds. By May of 2015, the conspiracy had doubled to $1.2 billion embezzled from Venezuela’s national oil company. An atmosphere of intimidation hung over some of the money-laundering deals, according to the unnamed associate. Toward the end of 2015, the associate was summoned to a meeting in Caracas with three of the defendants: Convit, Urdaneta and
Amparan. They convened around a table in Convit’s office, with numerous security guards, the complaint says. Convit kept a handgun on the table and a German shepherd with a shock collar next to him. “Convit held the remote for the collar, and commented that he could not always control the dog,” the complaint says. In early 2016, the associate approached Homeland Security investigators in Miami about cooperating and becoming a confidential source, the complaint says. The source agreed to wear a recording device to launder $78 million in PDVSA funds that he had received from a loan contract with the national oil company. The federal probe, called Operation Money Flight, was launched with the initial focus on the defendants’ efforts to launder a portion of the $78 million. “Two years and over one hundred recordings later, Operation Money Flight revealed an international conspiracy to launder the PDVSA funds through Miami and several large-scale international money-laundering organizations,” the complaint says. “More specifically, the investigation revealed the use of Miami real estate and sophisticated false-investment schemes to launder hundreds of millions of U.S. dollars.” To leverage their profits, the defendants took advantage of their access to the Venezuelan government’s foreign-currency exchange system, which offers a far more favorable rate than the everyday market. It was used to convert bolivars to dollars and euros as the defendants stole from the country’s oil riches for overseas investments in Florida, Europe and other parts of the world. The favorable exchangerate spread would result in illicit profits of tens of millions of dollars for each transaction.
GRA could be losing $$M in Income Tax in gold sector
…Gold Board GM says authority needs to do export analysis In the last eight years, the Guyana Gold Board would have issued Dealer’s Licences to several individuals and entities. Some of these include: Adamantium Metals, El Dorado Trading, Osaka Resources Limited, RongAn Inc., Pure Diamond Incorporated, Mohamed’s Enterprise and K.A.B Investments Inc. Records which were examined by several forensic auditors show that these dealers engage in volumes of transactions that sometimes exceed those of the Guyana Gold Board. In fact, auditors have stated that a significant portion of the exports for these dealers is done by way of purchase and sale, i.e. trading. Specifically, auditors attached to Ram and McRae Chartered Accountants have said that if one assumes this state of affairs to be correct,
Guyana Gold Board’s General Manager, Eondrene Thompson
then those transactions would be subject to Income Tax, if trading as individuals under their natural or business names, or Corporation Tax/Minimum Corporation Tax, if trading as a company. The auditors recommended that the Gold Board undertake an analysis of the exports of all dealers separately, identifying exports into
own production and purchases. They said that each of these requires separate tax treatment and once the information is available, it should be forwarded to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) for their consideration and action. In its estimation, the auditors said that this could involve hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes.
Kaieteur News recently engaged the Guyana Gold Board’s General Manager, Eondrene Thompson, on the matter. She said that while forensic audits made such a recommendation, she does not believe it is the job of the Gold Board to undertake such an analysis. Thompson said, “Our analysis is not for tax. It is for assurance that you did this business, and it is audited, and what you have produced over the years, you are in a good position for your license to be renewed. We did not go down that road (that the forensic auditors spoke of).”She concluded, “I think GRA should be the one doing the analysis to say that these people are sole traders and perhaps, let us see if they should be paying us taxes. I don’t think it is the Guyana Gold Board’s position (to do that)…”
The Homeland Security Investigations’ case unsealed Wednesday is unrelated to another major moneylaundering probe underway that targets a former high-ranking Venezuelan official close to the late President Chávez. That probe also takes aim at other former senior officials and financial figures who collaborated with them. The Miami Herald and el Nuevo Herald reported in March that Alejandro Andrade, a former bodyguard to Chávez who rose to the rank of national treasurer between 2007 and 2010, is suspected of laundering millions of dollars stolen from the Venezuelan government to invest in real estate, show horses and other assets in South Florida and elsewhere, according to sources in Miami and former Venezuelan government officials familiar with the investigation. Andrade’s acquisitions in South Florida and other parts of the United States don’t show up in public records because the purchases were made through shell companies that allow him to keep his ownership hidden, sources said. Andrade and several other associates in Venezuela’s government, banking and business sectors are suspected of enriching themselves by selling billions of dollars in bonds, capitalizing on fluctuating exchange rates and hiding their profits in Swiss bank accounts and U.S. investments, they said.. The investigation, led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Miami, stands out among the several federal criminal cases brought against former Venezuelan officials in recent years because Andrade was one of the most trusted members in Chávez’s inner circle. The socialist leader died in 2013. Read: https:// www.miamiherald.com/latest-news/ article215493015.html#storylink=cpy.
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 27, 2018
Govt.’s ‘no’ to a Labour Ministry is a further rejection of the working class - Rohee
F
ormer Minister of Home Affairs, Clem ent Rohee thinks that it is imperative, from a class perspective, to examine the APNU+ AFC Government’s rejection of an Opposition Motion that resolved to secure the re-establish of the Ministry of Labour. He said that such an examination will find that the government is showing contempt for the working class. Rohee recalled that in the 1950’s and 1960’s, trade unions traditionally constituted the base of political parties in the English-speaking Caribbean countries and Guyana was no different. He said that the PNC’s base came mainly from the urban black working class. Its trade union arm was the Guyana Labour Union (GLU). Rohee went into deep history about economic, social and political crises that came to head in the late 1970’s to mid 1980’s. He said that the trade union movement came under tremendous pressure from the working people in general and the working class in particular. He went deeper into speaking about a “strong black bureaucratic and comprador-bourgeoisie (that) emerged became entrenched and took full control of the state sector.” Rohee said that the award-
ing and splitting of government contracts as well as the establishment of the so-called Knowledge Sharing Institutes (KSIs) and consumer cooperatives became infested with “corruption of unspeakable proportions with PNC middlemen using every opportunity to make a dollar.” Rohee said that having taken full control of the state sector, the black bureaucratic bourgeoisie then moved to capture the leadership of the PNC. “Having gained control of both state and party apparatus and armed with an antiworking class ideology they launched persistent attacks on the workers and the unions of their choice. Burnham and the PNC’s proworking class orientation soon became a thing of the past; the party was transformed into one representing the black bourgeoisie and petit bourgeoisie.” Rohee chronicled that battles between the black bourgeoisie, the working people and their trade unions - demanding the withdrawal of antiworking class policies - became the order of the day. The former Minister said that the militancy of a section of the trade movement eventually led to a breakaway of five unions from the GTUC and the emergence of the Fed-
eration of Independent Trade Unions (FITUG). “And the TUC under Joseph Pollydore began flexing its muscles in the face of mounting pressures on the working people.” Rohee said that the industrial and political struggle had merged once again as it did before in the 1940’s and 50’s. A revolutionary situation had emerged signaling the imminent downfall of the PNC.” Rohee said that the regime only fell in 1992 and the PPP came to power to “rescue the working class”. The former Minister said that the PPP/C administration gave added prominence to the trade union movement. The Ministry of Labour’s role was enhanced and four pieces of progressive labourrelated Bills were passed in the National Assembly during the Cheddi Jagan administration. These are: The Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Bill, the Prevention of Discrimination Bill, the Occupational Safety and Health Bill, the Trade Union Recognition Bill and a policy establishing a National Minimum Wage. Further, Rohee said that during Dr Jagan’s tenure, wages and salaries were increased and budget allocations were readjusted increasing allocations for health and education.
South R/veldt man wanted for fuel marker scam
T
he police are looking for a man, Stanley Paul, for questioning in relation to a fuel scam. Paul is wanted for the unlawful distribution of fuel marker. The police said that the alleged offence was committed on the Guyana Energy Agency in April 2018. “Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Stanley Paul is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 226-2870, 229-2655, 229-2289, 227-1149, 226-7065, 911 or the nearest police station. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence,” the
Wanted: Stanley Paul police said. Paul is said to be of mixed race, and resides at 256 Dove
Square, South Ruimveldt Gardens, Georgetown. GEA has been battling theft of fuel markers over time with reports from time to time that various persons have been found in possession. The marker is critical to determine that taxes were paid on the fuel. The absence of the marker obviously would mean that nothing was paid. The taxes on fuel annually amount to billions of dollars. However, it is estimated that the markers stolen from GEA have caused losses to the state to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars - the fuel is coming especially from smuggling.
However, Rohee recalled that following Dr. Jagan’s death, relations between the government and the Public Service Union went into a tailspin. He said that a public servants strike in 1999 lasting for 57 days resulted in a tribunal being established and the awarding of a 58 per cent increase in salaries in two tranches, over a 16-month period for public servants. Rohee admitted that throughout its 23 years in office, there has been a seesawing in industrial climate between the PPP/C government and the trade unions. He said nevertheless “the relationship between workers representatives and government remained stable, balanced and mutually respectful. And with the appointment of every cabinet following five successive elections, the PPP/C ensured that at the helm of the Ministry of Labour there was always a senior and experienced member of Cabinet”. Rohee continued, “It is from this historic perspective that the decision by the Granger administration to vote down a call for the reestablishment of the Ministry
of Labour must be seen.” He said that effectively, “we have returned to the Burnham/Hoyte era where a Black bureaucratic and petit bourgeoisie is back in power, but the more dangerous aspect is, it is now in bed with the hierarchy of the military and police. It is this civilian/military alliance that abhors any association or engagement with trade unions. Their objective is to shun the unions and weaken labour’s bargaining power through a vibrant Ministry of Labour.” Rohee used the closure of sugar estates as an example to his argument. “To them, to sit at the negotiating table with workers’ representatives is humiliating and nothing more than nuisance value. In essence, it closely resembles a pro-militaristic way of conducting government business.” He continued, “If we are to examine this approach in terms of form and content, then it is apposite to recall how former American President Barack Obama put it in a recent address to a gathering in South Africa commemorat-
Former Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee ing the birth centenary of Nelson Mandela; ‘Strongman politics are ascendant, suddenly, whereby elections and some pretense of democracy is maintained the form of it - but those in power seek to undermine every institution or norm that gives democracy meaning.” Rohee was adamant that the APNU+AFC’s vote against the Opposition motion calling for the re-establishment of the Ministry of Labour has nothing to do with “political mischief.” He said that “on the contrary, what it did was to signal, in no uncertain terms, a return to ‘strongman politics’ in Guyana.”
Kwakwani flood waters receding significantly
The waters were as high as eight feet in some areas in Kwakwani. Flood waters in Kwakwani, Region Ten, Upper Demerara-Berbice, have receded significantly. The communities of Waterfront, Lamp Island, Aroaima and Ginger Island are now drained, after being under eight feet of water only a few days ago, and residents’ lives have returned to normalcy. The access roads are now free of water and residents no longer have to rely on canoes
to navigate, a government release said. Residents had to pay to be transported into central Kwakwani to access food and other services. Regional Vice-Chairman, Elroy Adolph said that while the water has receded, regional officials will continue to monitor the situation. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson was expected to visit Kwakwani yesterday.
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) led by Director-General (ag), Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig conducted a damage assessment and verification exercise before distributing water purification and sanitation supplies as well as food hampers. The residents are continuing to take health precautions. Kwakwani’s residents are mainly bauxite workers.
Friday July 27, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Central Bank rubbishes Jagdeo claims about low reserves Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is of the firm view that there is a significant decline in foreign currency at the Central Bank. He believes that this is responsible for the recent crackdown against some businesses which are not registered cambios but are engaging in the changing of foreign currency to Guyana dollars. At his most recent press conference, Jagdeo said, “…from all indications, they (government) have an unbelievable shortage of currency at Central Bank. The reserves are declining and they don’t have the money to meet obligations…We are going to see this evolve a bit more because you can’t hide this for long. This is not the end of the problem...” When contacted yesterday to comment on this matter, senior Central Bank officials said that Jagdeo’s perspective couldn’t be further from the truth. The officials stressed that there is no “unbelievable shortage.” One senior board member said, “Reserves go up and down all the time depending on the payments you have to make and I can tell you for a fact that the reserves are being prudently managed. Also, the crackdown on the currency exchange at certain places has to do with following the law. Must we allow certain practices to continue fearing what Mr. Jagdeo might interpret it to mean? Of course not! “ In an advertisement a few days ago, Bank of Guyana which is the regulator of commercial financial institutions and cambios licensed to trade in foreign currencies, said it has received credible information of use of foreign currency by unlicensed entities. “The Bank of Guyana notes with concern that some businesses are accepting foreign currency for the purpose
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo
of settling payments for transactions - instead of Guyana dollars.” While Central Bank Governor, Dr. Gobind Ganga would not immediately go into details during a recent interview on the matter, Kaieteur News has learnt from Government officials that authorities have been paying close attention to the Cuban traders in Guyana. With Chinese retailers and wholesalers in recent years growing in number, especially along Regent and Robb Streets, Cubans, especially, have been coming here with the precious US dollars. It is believed that upwards of US$2M alone in trade is being done with the Chinese stores each month. This does not include transportation to and from the Timehri airport and accommodation. About 1,000 Cubans are said to be coming monthly, shopping accessories, clothing and other things. There have been complaints that the Cubans, unwilling to visit a Cambio or bank because of safety concerns, would hand over their US cash to the willing store owners. It is believed that a significant part of the monies are making it out
of country, outside the normal channels, knowledgeable banking sources admitted. However, Dr. Ganga stressed that he is not saying that it is only the Chinese stores that are involved. “We know lots of businesses are doing it. We are saying to you to please abide by the rules and regulations. We do have the mechanisms of surprise raids.” According to the notice by Bank of Guyana on July 20 last, pursuant to Section (20) of the Bank of Guyana Act 1998, all monetary obligations or transactions in Guyana have to be settled in Guyana dollars. “The Bank advises that only banks and licensed Cambios are authorized to conduct buying and selling in foreign currency. The Bank of Guyana Act 1998, and dealers in Foreign Currency (Licensing) Act 1989 provide penalties for violations, which include fines and imprisonment.” The Bank warns that any person caught contravening the Bank of Guyana Act 1998 and the Dealers in Foreign Currency (Licensing) Act 1989 will be prosecuted.
Minister’s son, girlfriend face charges following altercation Police are to charge the son of a government Minister and the man’s girlfriend in connection with a recent altercation that they allegedly had at Bartica. A police release stated that following an online article published on July 23 under the caption “Minister threatens Commander with
dismissal after son assaults girlfriend”, which the Commander, Senior Superintendent Kevin Adonis, has vehemently denied, a thorough investigation into the alleged incident was conducted. The release stated that legal advice was obtained and Hector Broomes is to be
charged with one count of assault causing actual bodily harm. Gilibeth Rodriguez is to be charged with assault and for throwing missiles. They are being charged under the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act Chapter 8:02.
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Friday July 27, 2018
Kaieteur News
Former NBS CEO loses malicious prosecution appeal The Court of Appeal yesterday dismissed an appeal, in relation to the judgment in the case of malicious prosecution filed against the State by former NBS CEO, Maurice Arjoon. The ruling was delivered by Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards. In 2007, Arjoon was among several persons charged with a $69 million fraud committed at NBS. He later moved to the High Court seeking damages after the case was dismissed against him for want of prosecution. Following a drawn out le-
gal battle with the bank, the former CEO secured a judgment of pension, which was for his outstanding pension and other benefits. The CEO had long claimed that he and his Managers were set up and charged, after he refused to sink almost $2B of NBS money in the construction of the Berbice River Bridge. He therefore filed a case of malicious prosecution against the State. The Director of Public Prosecutions was named as a respondent. In his statement of claim, Arjoon said that he was charged “maliciously and
without reasonable or probable cause,” for which he was seeking special damages – $1,041,599 for loss of employment; $642,744 for loss of allowances; and $496,664 for loss of pension, all calculated for a period of 42 months during which he lost employment. Arjoon was also seeking damages in excess of $50,000, for malicious prosecution and indictment for the charge of conspiracy to defraud as well as damages in excess of $50,000 for false imprisonment on or about July 1, 2007. It was also pointed out that the virtual complainant in
the NBS case, Bibi Khan, from whose account the money was allegedly withdrawn without notice, failed to attend court hearings. She had appeared during the first PI, where she had given evidence but defence lawyers were later unable to complete their cross-examination of her. Justice Cummings– Edwards noted in the case of malicious prosecution that the claimant (Arjoon) was required to prove four elements. She outlined that the claimant must first prove that he was prosecuted; the prosecution ended in his favour;
the prosecution lacked reasonable and probable cause and the prosecution acted with malice. The Chancellor clarified that malice in this context is more than ill-will, but rather, it meant improper purpose. She noted too that of the entire aforementioned elements, the most critical point to prove is that the prosecution lacked reasonable and probable cause. In reviewing the case, the Appeal Court Judge noted that the finding of fact by High Court Justice Dawn Gregory was taken into consideration. In that regard, the Appeal Court highlighted the findings of Justice Gregory as it relates to the evidence presented in the case. Justice Gregory had examined the fact that Arjoon was employed by the bank and was the authorized signatory for cheques and approval of such. In view of the testimony, with regard to the procedures and systems, the Court found that the police might have had an “honest belief,” that there was evidence to bring the charges against Arjoon. In this regard, the Court had noted that plaintiff failed to prove the prosecution lacked reasonable probable cause to charge. The Court also could not find evidence of malice as it relates to the legal definition of the term. In those circumstances, the Appellate Court dismissed the application to overturn the decision of Justice Gregory. In 2013, Justice Gregory dismissed the $2 million lawsuit filed against government
Former NBS CEO Maurice Arjoon for alleged malicious prosecution by Arjoon, after she found that only two out of four limbs of malicious prosecution had been established. Justice Gregory, during the delivery of her ruling, said that in reaching her decision she looked at several things, including letters, and some of the testimony given during the preliminary inquiry. She said she was satisfied that there was a connection between the charges laid and the termination of Arjoon’s employment at the NBS. The judge added that the case against Arjoon was based on circumstantial evidence and that the police had been advised by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Towards the ending of the ruling, she indicated to Arjoon that she knew that the case meant a lot to him but she had to dismiss it for the reasons she had outlined.
Health Ministry to... (From page 3) an appeal was made for an inspection of the hospital. When contacted by telephone on the matter yesterday, a representative of the hospital claimed to be unaware of the dilemma highlighted by the resident. In fact the official said of the medical waste, “we store in the way we are supposed to store them. I don’t think they are stored in any different way.” However, the rep-
40
resentative advised this publication to speak with another hospital staffer and shortly after abruptly discontinued the telephone call. Further calls to the same number went unanswered. This publication understands that the hospital utilises the medical waste disposal service of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the piled-up waste is usually removed on Thursdays.
Friday July 27, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Influx of persons fleeing Venezuela not at crisis level – Greenidge Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge says Government continues to monitor the influx of persons fleeing neighbouring Venezuela, and is assuring that the situation is not at crisis level. A multi-agency initiative recently rushed aid to Region One, Barima-Waini, where there are about 53 immigrant families with 260 persons stationed at four campsites. Speaking with Kaieteur News about the local communities being overwhelmed in Region One, Greenidge explained that assistance is being coordinated through the Civil Defence Commission (CDC). “I am not aware that at this point in time that there should be any reason why we would be getting reports that there is anything like a crisis with hundreds or dozens of people being destitute or unaided. It may be that they don’t get as much as they may want or as quickly as they want it,” Greenidge stated. The Foreign Affairs Minister indicated that the num-
bers involved tend to be more localized where persons cross the border and settle in groups, particularly indigenous people. In such cases, he stated that the local villages may be unable to immediately provide assistance, which then triggers assistance from national agencies. Based on the numbers, Greenidge indicated that the situation at the moment does not require international assistance. “I don’t think we are anywhere near there,” Greenidge stated. He explained that Guyana is in close contact with UNHCR, UN Refugee Agency as well as the International Organisation on Migration. “They sent a team in April-May to make an assessment of needs and that has been done. It isn’t as though stuff is going on out there and we don’t know what is going on and we are not providing assistance,” Greenidge said. He added, “There is a process involved in this and I don’t think there is anything like a crisis.” Neighbouring Venezuela is in the midst of eco-
nomic and social problems, with food shortages and supplies low, and unemployment as well as inflation at unsustainable levels. Guyana has assembled a multi-agency Coordinating Committee that includes members from the Guyana Police Force, the Ministries of Communities, Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Social Protection, Public Health and Citizenship, and the CDC. Since its formation, the group has already distributed household, sanitation and hygiene items to the immigrants. Health workers, police and immigration officers have also been deployed to the border communities to support the Ministry of Public Health in inoculating these persons. There are also health concerns stemming from the increased numbers now entering Guyana. In Region One, several persons have been vaccinated. According to officials, to date, 65 persons have been vaccinated
Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge
against yellow fever, 77 against measles, 31 against Polio, 35 against tuberculosis, while the BCG vaccine has been administered to several babies. Community borders of Region 7 and 9 have also seen an influx of persons. In Region 7, Government is assessing a claim made by a group who settled in an area that is said to be min-
eral-rich. Guyana has also taken steps to facilitate Venezuelans and other immigrants who enter Guyana illegally and are intercepted by law enforcement officers. Greenidge had told Kaieteur News that illegal immigrants who are caught will be provided an opportunity to register at a port of entry. He made it clear that at this
point in time that is the only flexibility that the Government is prepared to offer, where ‘Venezuelans and Haitians’ will be considered favourably to enter for a period of three to six months in the first instance. According to Greenidge, after the six months, Government will then consider what further accommodation will be provided.
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 27, 2018
Another scandal?
Region Six budgets $85M for bulldozer after $15M blunder The Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) administration is moving to buy a new bulldozer but there are questions now about the budgeted cost. According to documents from the region, it is the plan to spend $139M next year for Land Transport, for the agricultural programme. The plans to purchase a new bulldozer were included in the 2019 budget for the region which will have to be approved by Government. The Regional Democratic Council of Region Six approved the budget this week. The first piece of equipment on the list as approved by the region is the purchase of a 4x4 pickup for $9, for the Vice Chairman. The region also wants to purchase a 320 C long boom excavator, which is estimated at $45M. However, it is the D6 Angle Blade bulldozer for $85M that has raised eyebrows. A high-end brand is estimated at $40M. A rice miller says he bought one in back in 2016, landing it here for $17M. “This is again raising some serious questions. We just now have experienced an embarrassing scandal over a
Region Six REO, Kim Williams-Stephen bulldozer which had to be returned to a contractor and monies repaid to the region because someone accepted a wrong one,” a regional official disclosed. It was only recently that it was disclosed, after much cajoling, that K&P Project Management, which supplied a faulty bulldozer to the Regional Democratic Council, Region Six, has reportedly repaid the full sum of $15M. This was according to the Regional Chairman, David Armogan.
Armogan stated that he was informed by the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Kim Williams-Stephen that the money was paid back to the Accountant General. He said on several occasions he tried to make contact with the Accountant General to authenticate what was told to him by the REO, but he was told that the official was busy. The Chairman pointed out that procedural errors were made with acceptance of a bulldozer that was defective as was the paying of money without the relevant inspection certificates. He said “basic procurement procedures” were flouted. In June, the Managing Director, Terry Thomas had told Kaieteur News that the company submitted a cheque of $14M to the region and was expected to pay out the remainder shortly. The bulldozer was also collected from the region. Regional officials had received a D4 bulldozer in the sum of $14.8M from the company in December 2017, when in reality the bid documents had stipulated a D3 bulldozer. (Continued on page 26)
The controversial bulldozer that the region was forced to return.
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Friday July 27, 2018
Kaieteur News
Canadian teacher charged for drowning of Guyanese teen C a n a d a (www.thestar.com)- A teacher with 20 years experience and special training in outdoor recreation has been charged with criminal negligence causing death in the drowning of a teenager on a school trip to Algonquin Park last year. Jeremiah Perry slipped under the water while swimming in a lake with his classmates from C.W. Jefferys Collegiate Institute in the back country of Algonquin Park in July 2017. The 15-year-old’s disappearance prompted a day of frantic rescue efforts and the evacuation of his classmates from the park. Perry’s body was found the next day. In August, members of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch began a criminal investigation into the teen’s death. The investigation involved more than 100 interviews, one search warrant and four production orders, OPP Const. Catherine Yarmel said. Nicholas Mills, 54, of Caledon will appear in Finch Ave. W. court on Sept. 11. Mills is a teacher at C.W. Jefferys in North York, Yarmel confirmed, as well as the school’s co-ordinator of the REACH program for youth. He was also the team leader assigned to Perry and respon-
The teacher: Nicholas Mills sible for the itinerary and supervision of the excursion. Mills, who did not respond to requests for comment by deadline, has been a teacher in the province since 1998, according to the Ontario College of Teachers website, and is in good standing. Ryan Bird, spokesperson for the Toronto District School Board, said Mills has been on home assignment since Perry’s death last year and will remain there until the end of the investigation.
He told the Star it’s “definitely a possible outcome” that Mills could be fired if he’s found guilty. Now that charges have been laid, the TDSB will resume its internal investigation, which was suspended last August when OPP took over, Bird said. He could not comment on whether the investigation had found any wrongdoing on Mill’s part so far. “Now that the charge has been laid we can resume our
Drowned Guyanese: Jeremiah Perry investigation to determine just that,” he said. Though its investigation is not complete, Bird said the board has “nevertheless still strengthened the checks and balances to make sure something like this can never happen again.” School officials had said in August that Perry was among 15 students out of 32 on the trip who failed a required swim test. Two of the students didn’t take the test at all. In a report released by the TDSB in May, safety measures for future excursions were explained in detail. Going forward any student who
has failed his or her swim test won’t be allowed to participate in any activities involving water. If students pass the first swim test, they will also need to pass a second test at the location of the trip in open water. It will be supervised by lifeguards and teachers. If students fail the second test, they are also banned from participating in any water-related activities during the excursion. If both tests are successfully completed, the students will be allowed to swim and take part in activities on the water, but must wear a lifejacket at all times. The results
of these tests will be given to the student, their parents or guardians and the principal. Perry attended C.W. Jeffreys starting in October 2016, after immigrating to Canada from Guyana. A science teacher, speaking to the Star after Perry’s death, described the teen as a “polite and loving boy”. Perry’s father, Joshua Anderson, said he was relieved to hear of the charge laid yesterday, adding that awaiting the results of the investigation this past year has been painful for his family. “This last year has felt like an eternity for my family and I, but we understand that it takes time to fully investigate a tragedy like this,” Anderson said in a statement through his lawyer. “We are relieved that the investigation has resulted in criminal charges being laid against the teacher who organized and lead Jeremiah’s trip. We believe these charges are warranted under the circumstances,” the statement continued. “Although nothing that happens now can bring back Jeremiah or take away the pain of losing him, we hope that having the case proceed through the criminal justice system will be one important step in ensuring that a tragedy like this never happens again on a school trip.”
Couple blames Berbice hospital for death of newborn A couple of Lot 1 A Campbell Street, Hampshire Village are mourning the loss of their baby after the child died at the New Amsterdam Hospital during childbirth. They are blaming the doctors and nurses for neglect as the cause of the infant’s death. Naomi Madramootoo, 24, who also has another child, told this publication via telephone that her amniotic sack broke last Friday night at approximately 10:30 hrs and from that point, herself and husband decided to rush to the Port Mourant Hospital where a doctor checked her and concluded that she had already dilated 5 centimetres and an ambulance was summoned to take her to the New Amsterdam Hospital. Madramootoo said that she checked in at 11:55 and at
that time she was having “serious contractions”. She said the midwife on duty checked her and she was still dilated at 5 centimetres. At approximately 2:30 am, “my contractions had increased and I was telling the nurse that I feel something coming and she kept telling me to relax, breath in and out and that I am not ready. I followed her instructions but I was screaming in pain and they had not checked me back to see how much I dilated since I checked in. I was having the urge to push the baby. The nurses were with another patient in the delivery room and they were talking and laughing and I was in excruciating pain”. The young mother said that she asked to speak with a doctor since she felt that she could no longer deliver
her baby naturally, but by way of a cesarean. She said that in her previous pregnancy she had some minor complications to deliver her 3lb baby naturally, she eventually did with a few slits during the process. This pregnancy she said, the baby was 8lbs. ”When I asked to speak with a doctor, the midwife told me that the doctor left already, not knowing she was right in the room and did not tend to me when I requested. I learnt this after the whole episode. I asked to speak with my relatives and they told me that there was no need to, I asked to speak to my husband and the midwife said ‘whatever you want to tell your husband you can tell me’. But I told them I wanted a c-section (Continued on page 27)
Region Six budgets $85M for... From page 16 A report from a special investigation done by the Auditor General’s office unearthed major breaches in the transaction. The report was turned over to Regional Executive Officer (REO) Kim WilliamsStephen on June 12. Thomas had explained that the company won the bid for a D3 bull-
dozer which they should have supplied. He stated that as they were not getting a D3 at that time at the price in the bid, they thought that they could have supplied a D4, which is a higher specification than what the region wanted. The contract was signed on September 12, 2017.
Friday July 27, 2018
Armed youths rob car wash operator
The ‘Presidential Touch’ car wash where owner Debbie Atwell was robbed Four armed youths on Wednesday robbed 51-yearold Debbie Atwell at the “Presidential Touch” wash bay, a business that Atwell operates at 38 Public Road, Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara. Atwell told Kaieteur News of the experience that has left her counting losses in excess of $350,000. The woman said she was sitting in her business place around 11:15 hrs at the time looking down into the screen of her phone when someone walked up to
her, and told her, “don’t move, or we going to kill you.” The woman said when she raised her head, there were three men standing in front of her, one of whom had a gun in his hand. Atwell said she asked them what they wanted, at which time they started pulling off her gold jewellery which included one chain, two rings and a band. She recounted that one of the bandits stayed just outside of the business, on a bicycle, and was acting as a lookout.
After taking the woman’s jewellery and a purse which had some documents and money, they made good their escape. She said that three headed in the direction of the Haags Bosch dumpsite at the back of Eccles, while one went along the East Bank public road, also in the direction of Eccles. Atwell claims that the three individuals are identifiable. A report was made to the police and investigations continue.
Couple blames Berbice hospital for death of newborn From page 26 and the nurse told me that I am no doctor to say I want that and the other nurses were saying ‘what she want that for”, Madramootoo recounted. Her husband, Ravin Madramootoo recounted that after hearing her screams and crying, he asked the nurse if they could be allowed a self discharge so that he could take his wife to a private hospital, but he was told that “we have everything under control, the baby is on the way”. This was at approximately 4:30 am. At 5:30 am Madramootoo was taken to the delivery room and when checked she had dilated to 10 cm and the nurses told her she was ready to give birth. She said her baby was still alive during that time since they checked the infant’s heartbeat and he was moving. It was after several attempts to “push the baby out” that it was accepted that she could not give birth naturally. The doctor instructed the nurses to prepare Madramootoo for a cesarean. ”After they prepared me for c-section, I could still feel my baby moving and so, but then I waited. An hour passed
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Kaieteur News
and new nurses and so were coming in to take over the day shift, another half hour passed, but then I was feeling movements. The doctor came with the midwife around 9:00 and when they checked for the baby’s heartbeat they heard nothing. The doctor called two other doctors and they checked for heartbeat and wasn’t finding any. I already knew my baby died,” the tearful woman said. She divulged that shortly after she was taken into the operating theatre for surgery. Afterwards she was transported to the recovery room where she kept asking to see her child. ”I asked her how was the baby, even though deep down I knew what happened. A doctor came and said the baby died. I didn’t get to see my child until Tuesday, four days later. The baby was a full eight pounds. They told my relatives that they took me into the operating room at
8:00, that’s not true, I went in there till 9:00", Madramootoo stated. According to her, they denied the option of a post mortem, since they were confused and still in shock, but explained that “forgiveness is important” and at that time they accepted that the baby had died and were only concerned about giving their child a decent burial. She however said that she believes that her child would have been alive if they had given her the cesarean when she requested it. Her husband said, “I am depressed and I blame the hospital”. He stated that the last ultrasound done showed that all was well and his wife was not a high-risk patient. They are asking that the relevant authorities intervene to sanction those who dealt with Naomi Madramootoo. The couple is expected to file an official complaint with health services in Berbice.
Justice La Bennett nominated to chair Trade Union Recognition Board After months without one, there will soon be a chairperson for the all-important Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board (TUR&CB). Ye s t e r d a y, M i n i s t e r Amna Ally met with representatives from the Tripartite Constituency on a matter of consultation. According to the Ministry of Social Protection, the basis of the consultation was to determine a chairperson. “TUR&CB is respons i b l e f o r, a m o n g o t h e r things, certifying various trade unions so that workers’ rights can be legally and correctly represented. The Board endorses the recognition of unions as bargaining agents for workers,” the ministry explained. Consultations were conducted with the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) which was represented by General Secretary, Dawchan Nagasar. He was accompanied by Seepaul Narine. Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) was represented by its General Secretary, Lincoln Lewis, while the Con-
Retired Justice Claudette La Bennett sultative Association of Guyanese Industry (CAGI) was represented by Samuel Goolsarran. They all met with Minister Ally separately. “The consultations were done in the presence of Hon. Keith Scott, Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Karen Vansluytman Chief Labour Officer (ag), Ministry of Social Protection and Sonia Philander, an independent note-
taker.” There were two nominees for the position of Chairmanship of the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board (TUR&CB) – Grantley Culbard, trade unionist and recommended nominee of FITUG and Retired Justice Madam Claudette La Bennett, who was endorsed by CAGI and GTUC. “The Ministry of Social Protection is pleased to announce that Retired Justice Madam Claudette La Bennett has been nominated as Chairperson of the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board. She has indicated her willingness to serve in the position as Chairperson for the Recognition and Certification Board (TUR&CB). The Ministry of Social Protection continues to extend the arms of good partnership and thanks the representatives from FITUG, GTUC and CAGI.” The absence of a chairperson had delayed the recognition and hosting of a number of polls. A number of objections to polls are reportedly pending.
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 27, 2018
Discrepancy with case ... From page 17 the Government, between October 26, 2010 and December 20, 2010 at Lot 126 Barrack Street, Kingston, Georgetown, by way of Agreement of Sale and Purchase, acted recklessly when they sold to Queens Atlantic Investment Inc, Sanata Texiles Complex, with building and erections
thereon, that is to say, Parcel 4702, Part of Plantation Ruimveldt, situated on the East Bank Demerara, being 18.871 acres, at $697,864,800.00 plus VAT, knowing that the said property was valued at the sum of $1,042,403,500.00, and was therefore being sold at a price that was grossly undervalued,
thereby creating a breach of their duties�. The two men who are already facing three charges of Misconduct in Public Office are currently on $6M bail each. They have not yet appeared before the Chief Magistrate for the fourth charge to be read to them.
Friday July 27, 2018
Kaieteur News
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judge on Wednesday sentenced Stephen Peters, 27, to life without parole for the Feb. 24, 2013 murder of 43-year-old Azeem Ali. Peters and an accomplice, Jason St. Hill, who both lived around the corner from the Guyanese immigrant’s Richmond Hill home, forced their way inside his second-floor
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Friday July 27, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Life without parole: Stephen Peters apartment just after midnight on Feb. 24, 2013. Peters beat Ali, and the duo bound his hands and feet with electrical cord. St. Hill, who was just 17 years old at the time, trained a gun on Ali’s head while Peters went to the basement of the 116th St. home and found a can of gasoline. Peters demanded Ali’s bank card and PIN, then shot him three times in the head. He then doused Ali with gasoline, torched him and his apartment, and used the victim’s bank card to withdraw $100 cash from a restaurant ATM. He tried to get more cash at a gas station ATM, but the card was declined. A jury found Peters guilty of second-degree murder, robbery, kidnapping, arson and other charges in January 2017, but couldn’t reach a verdict on the top charge of first-degree murder. He was retried in May, and found guilty on May 30. St. Hill, who pleaded guilty to robbery in February 2017, is serving a 12-and-a half year prison sentence.
Friday July 27, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Importance of heritage to be emphasised at Bartica Emancipation observance “Entertainment without education is another form of oppression,” said Regional Chairman of Region Seven, M r. Gordon Bradford, as he offered remarks at a press conference to share plans to commemorate Emancipation Day 2018 in Bartica. While the August 1 observance was said to be vibrant back in the day, the interest in the event had dwindled over the years. However, given its township status which was acquired in 2016, deliberate moves were made to revamp the way the national holiday is observed. This therefore required the establishment of a Bartica Emancipation Committee. Sitting at the helm of the Committee as Chairman is r e m i g r a n t M r. R o x r o y Parris. Parris, who returned to Guyana about a year ago, is the owner of the Atlantic Service Station. Other members of the committee include: M r. John M c K e n z i e , Tr e a s u r e r, Patricia Hopkinson, Secretary; Committee Members: Shirley Douglas, Averil Lynch and Winsley Benn. Speaking of the Committee, Parris said, “I hope that working together we will build something that can motivate people to start looking into themselves and appreciating the value of where they come from.” Moreover, Parris said that a primary focus of the Committee will be to sensitise the public, particularly the youths. He shared his belief that “understanding your history and culture is important in the heritage discussion as we move Guyana forward.”
But the Committee is not working in isolation as, according to Parris, a keen effort is being made to reach out to corporate Bartica as well as residents in the quest to make the Emancipation Day observance a successful venture. He underscored that the support is being solicited even as members of the Committee bear in mind that Bartica is a mixed community with a number of people with indigenous heritage. As such, he noted that although the focus currently is on AfroBarticians “that does not mean we are going to be ignoring the other cultures.” Raised awareness in Bartica is particularly important, Parris said, since “Bartica has been dumb in terms of cultural movement. Bartica was vibrant back in the 60s and 70s, but somehow things slowed down tremendously.” “I really like the steps taken by the group by bringing something like this to Bartica,” said the Committee Chairman as he added, “I am happy for the energy of the group, but we need the young people to come on board. We need to have sessions to educate them and encourage them to showcase and be involved in their heritage. It is our responsibility...” Even as he commended the work of the Committee, Regional Chairman, Gordon Bradford, described the decision to orchestrate an Emancipation event as quite a challenge. He however expressed hope that the observance this year will not be a one-off undertaking. “The Regional Democratic Council is happy that
From left: Regional Chairman, Gordon Bradford and members of the Emancipation Committee: Ms. Patricia Hopkinson [Secretary]; Mr. Roxroy Parris [Chairman] and Mr. John McKenzie [Treasurer]. we have this group...We are happy such a group has been formed and has taken up the challenge; we needed that boost to make an attraction while imparting much needed knowledge,” said Bradford. He urged the Committee members to recruit the support of others with a view of expanding its effort to impart knowledge of the Africans who were enslaved but eventually helped to pave a way for their descendants. “Emancipation is not really a celebration, but an observance where we pay homage to our ancestors who were brutally enslaved, raped, murdered, degraded when they were brought to the Caribbean and these shores. We must never forget their sacrifice; we need to observe these occasions when it comes around,” Bradford encouraged. As he stressed the importance of education in this regard, he urged the Committee “whatever you bring to the public it must be something that would educate especially
The cenotaph where the observance will commence on Emancipation Day in Bartica.
our young people, because some of us have lost our way. We don’t know from whence we came and if we don’t know where we came from, then we certainly don’t know where we are heading.” But even as efforts are made at educating the youths about their culture, Parris added, “we must show inclusiveness without losing our
individuality...if we don’t foster unity, we will not be able to see ‘one people, one nation and one destiny.’” According to Hopkinson, the observance will commence on July 31 with drumming and a march from Four Mile to Mon Grippa Hill ball field where there will be a campfire. On August 1, beginning at 10
am, the activities will kick off at the cenotaph with a p r a y e r, d r u m m i n g a n d street march around Bartica which will end at the pavilion. Other activities will include an exhibition and cultural show which will continue into the night. The Committee is optimistic that those who will grace the event will do so garbed in African wear.
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Hungarian Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton says pressure is greater than before BBC Sport - Lewis Hamilton says the pressure of this year’s Formula 1 title fight with Sebastian Vettel is greater than he has ever experienced before. The Mercedes driver is 17 points clear of Vettel after Sunday’s win in Germany but expects Ferrari to have the upper hand at this weekend’s race in Hungary. Hamilton said: “The pressures are huge. The demands and the desires of myself and Sebastian are higher than ever. “The pressure is higher than ever. I am not fazed by it. I am excited by it.” Vettel crashed out of the lead in Germany in the difficult late stages of the race when it was raining and the drivers were using slick tyres. Hamilton, who said his drive to victory from 14th on
the grid was one of the greatest of his career, said: “I do take a lot of pride in being a perfectionist and not making mistakes. With the pressure we are under, I really work hard to position myself mentally and physically that I am the last to crack. It is not easy but I am happy with where it is right now.” He added: “Last year, I’m sure we reached just as high heights in terms of pressure at some point. It is just that this year it is even closer than last year so the smallest mistakes are even more costly. So there is more pressure on that. ”We are racing a team that are faster than us this year. Last year, we were quite balanced. There were some weekends, they were faster than us, some weekends we were
faster than them. ”This year it is swinging more in their direction, so we are having to over-deliver on weekends and try to pull out more on weekends when we are not quick enough so the pressure to extract every last millimetre is greater than ever if I want to be number one at the end.” Hamilton said the psychological aspects of performing at his best throughout a 21race season that lasts nine months were extreme. “You don’t see us away from the track and that is the most demanding thing,” he said. “Keeping your mind in the game from March to November, arriving every weekend 100%. ”I can honestly say not every single weekend I have
Friday July 27, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Things should flow extremely well for you today, Aries, especially when it comes to anything having to do with love and beauty.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Get your broom out of the closet today, Libra. Your job is to brush away the cobwebs from the corners of your emotional bedroom.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You might have to do a bit of adjusting today in order to experience a harmonious understanding with the people around you, Taurus.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) There may be a great deal of charge in your battery today, Scorpio, but you could be unsure about where to put all this energy. Get up and do some exercise. Give your body the workout it needs.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your love life is a kaleidoscope of shapes and colors today, Gemini, full of complicated patterns and ever-changing displays of beauty. A new perspective is revealed everywhere you turn. CANCER(June21–July22) Turn up your aggressive nature regarding your romantic life. You may find that a small spark is all that's needed to rekindle a smoldering fire. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today is a very powerful day for you, Leo. You may find yourself going to extremes in certain areas of your life, especially when it comes to your romantic nature. You could be pulled way over to one side and then to the other. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may not understand what all the fuss is about t o day, Virgo. Suddenly there's a fire burning all around and you may be left questioning the motivations behind others' actions. You may not be able to make heads or tails of the situation
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Let your love light shine today. There's a great deal of passion in your heart that needs to be expressed. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) People might be a bit argumentative when it comes to romantic issues today, Capricorn. Your instincts could be telling you to restrain yourself and hold back. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Consider going on a trip with a close loved one, Aquarius. A long-term break from the current reality may be just the thing needed to infuse a new blast of romance into your life. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today is one of those days in which if you want love, you need to go out and get it, Pisces. Don't waste your time sitting at home and sulking. Be adventuresome and take that first step. You're the only one who has the ability to pull yourself out of the rut, so do it.
Lewis Hamilton
hit the nail on the head and been able to do that. “There are parts of my performance this year that are not perfect. Last year I was great in qualifying, this year it has been an area I am constantly trying to work on - starts were more consistent last year, there are always areas, there is always something.” Vettel did not talk to the media yesterday following
Arnaud Demare... From page 33 Pyrenees.Demare’s stage win came on the day that German sprinter Andre Greipel, already out of this year’s Tour, apologised to him on Twitter after suggesting in an earlier post that Demare had used illegitimate means in order to avoid missing the time cut when struggling on the Col du Portet on Wednesday. Despite Greipel’s apology, Demare said he had used his comments as motivation.’I can thank Greipel today,’ he said. ‘I thought of him a lot.’ After the drama of the past two days in the mountains, this was a largely uneventful stage, no doubt welcome to those still with an eye on the fight for yellow. Wednesday’s stage winner Nairo Quintana of Movistar was caught in a crash along with MitcheltonScott’s Adam Yates with 105km to go but they were soon back on their bikes. (MailOnline)
Mohamed’s Enterprise... From page 39 vs Young Kings 04 20:30hrs Presidential Family vs Haynes Hitters 05 21:15hrs DC Ballers vs Royal Warriors 06 21:50hrs Money Move vs Quiet Storm 07 22:30hrs Trend Setters vs Progressive Ballers 08 11:10 pm G o o d Fellas vs Hard Ball
the death of Sergio Marchionne on Wednesday, four days after he was replaced as president and chief executive officer of Ferrari after becoming ill from complications following shoulder surgery. Hamilton said he expected Ferrari and potentially Red Bull to be stronger than Mercedes this weekend. “This weekend is going to be the same challenges as every year,” he said. “We’ve got the
Red Bulls - it is not a power circuit and they are quite often close. Ferrari were quickest here last year. It is probably going to be the same this weekend, we are going to try our hardest to improve on that. ”Maybe tomorrow we will get in the car and we will have great pace; the car will work really well here. This is a really tough track, very hot, the way the corners are laid out has not in the past been good for our car package. ”Our car likes to be on a more open circuit, more highspeed, downforce-dependency corners. This is mostly medium- and low-speed, so it will be interesting.” Red Bull, who have won three grands prix this year but have struggled for competitiveness in recent races, have identified this weekend as one of their best chances of another win as the circuit layout does not penalise the power deficit of their Renault engine as much as other tracks.
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U.S. blocks IOC request to send sports IOC tells U.S. to clean equipment to North Korea: Diplomats up its own doping house United Nations (Reuters) - The United States has blocked a request by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to transfer sports equipment to North Korea so its athletes can prepare, qualify and participate in the Olympic Games, United Nations diplomats said yesterday. IOC President Thomas Bach asked the U.N. Security Council North Korea sanctions committee, in a July 3 letter, for an exemption to allow the transfer. The United States on Wednesday told the committee, which operates by consensus, it objected. A U.S. official declined to comment on confidential committee deliberations, but added: “We remain upbeat about the prospects of denuclearization of North Korea, but it will take full enforcement of sanctions to get us there.” U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met for the first time in Singapore in June and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo followed up with inconclusive talks with North Korea this month.
Thomas Bach President of IOC
After briefing Security Council envoys last week, Pompeo and U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley warned against loosening sanctions on Pyongyang after Russia and China suggested the council could discuss such a move. The IOC did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the U.S. objection to transferring sports equipment. Tokyo will host the next Summer Olympics in 2020. The U.N. Security Council has unanimously boosted sanctions on North Korea since 2006 in a bid to choke off funding for Pyongyang’s nuclear and ballistic missile
programs. The council has banned luxury goods, a somewhat gray area although it has said that this includes recreational sports equipment. Bach said in May that the IOC, at the request of North and South Korea, would support peace talks on the Korean peninsula with sports initiatives. The countries marched under a unified flag at the opening and closing cere m o n i e s o f F e b r u a r y ’s Winter Olympics in South Korea’s Pyeongchang as tense relations between the countries started to thaw. Bach then visited North Korea in March and met Kim.
Arnaud Demare wins stage 18 of the Team Sky’s Geraint Thomas Tour de France -remains in the yellow jersey
File Photo: An A and a B bottle, used for the collection of urine. Reuters - The International Olympic Committee told the United States on Thursday it should get its own house in order in the fight against doping before putting athletes from other countries under threat of punishment for breaking U.S. law. The IOC’s sharp rebuke followed a hearing in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, which looks at security, cooperation and human rights issues in Europe. The Commission urged the U.S. Congress to move swiftly to pass a bill designed to crack down on the use of performance-enhancing drugs in major international sporting competitions. The Rodchenkov AntiDoping Act, named after Grigory Rodchenkov, Russia’s former anti-doping chief-turned-whistleblower, would establish stiff penalties for anyone involved in doping at a competition. These would include fines of up to $250,000 and up to five years in prison. During the hearing the IOC repeat-
edly came under attack, particularly from United States Anti-Doping (USADA) chief Travis Tygart, for not doing enough to protect clean athletes and punish Russia for doping transgressions. The IOC uncovered evidence of widespread doping by Russia during the Sochi Winter Olympics in 2014 which led to it being banned from this year’s Games in Pyeongchang. The IOC fired back on yesterday, telling the United States it should do more to clean up its own doping issues, particularly what it sees as inadequate testing in professional and college sports. ”We very much appreciate and welcome moves in the United States to step up the fight against doping and we assume that the very worrying existing challenges with some of the professional leagues in the United States will be addressed as a matter of urgency,” the IOC said in a statement. ”Especially since this has become extremely obvious again in the last report of
USADA which details the low level of testing currently taking place in these professional leagues. ”However, it is a matter of concern that the intention of the proposed legislation is to put athletes from all 206 National Olympic Committee from around the world who take part in international competition under the criminal code of U.S. law.” The IOC also said that instead of independently trying to impose U.S. laws on athletes, it should join international efforts already in place to combat doping and corruption in sport. ”With regards to the fight against corruption in sport, we would kindly invite the United States government to join ‘The International Partnership against Corruption in Sport’ (IPACS), where the IOC together with governments, including Japan, Germany, Great Britain, France and Australia, along with international organizations like the United Nations, OECD and the Council of Europe, have joined forces,” added the IOC.
Cristiano Ronaldo settles tax row with Spanish authorities... Demare celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win the 18th stage of the 105th edition of the Tour de France cycling race. (GettyImages) Geraint Thomas stayed safe in the yellow jersey as Frenchman Arnaud Demare won stage 18 of the Tour de France in Pau. Groupama-FDJ’s Demare held off Christophe Laporte of Cofidis and Alexander Kristoff of UAE Team Emirates in a sprint finish to claim his second career Tour win and his first this
year. Team Sky’s Thomas crossed the line with the front group to ensure he holds on to his advantage of one minute and 59 seconds over Tom Dumoulin of Team Sunweb going into Friday’s mountain test in the (Continued on page 32)
From page 34 had yet to sign off on the agreement. Last year, a Spanish state prosecutor accused Ronaldo of four counts of tax fraud from 2011-14 worth €14.7m (£13m). The prosecutor accused the Portugal forward of having used shell companies outside Spain to hide income made from image rights. The accusation does not involve his salary from his former Real Madrid club.
Ronaldo denied any wrongdoing when questioned by a judge last July. He left Real Madrid this month to sign for Italian champion Juventus. In 2016, Barcelona
forward Lionel Messi received a suspended 21-month jail sentence after being found guilty of defrauding tax authorities of €4.1m (£3.6m). (Mailonline)
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CONCACAF-Dominican born LeBlanc to Players to be encouraged to reach head women’s football in the region for true potential –TD Greenwood Miami, CMC – Karina LeBlanc has officially been named as the head of the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) women’s football and will take up her new position on August 3. LeBlanc, who was born to Jamaican and Dominican parents and lived in Dominica until the age of eight, has been charged with spearheading the confederation’s campaign to strengthen and grow the women’s game throughout the CONCACAF region. The former goalkeeper eventually moved to Canada whom she represented in five FIFA World Cups, two Olympics and three PanAmerican Games. She was a member of the bronze medal-winning team at the London Olympics in 2012. In 2013, she became the first female professional footballer to be appointed as UNICEF ambassador. LeBlanc also worked as a broadcaster and motivational speaker. ”I am honoured and excited to join CONCACAF at a pivotal time for women’s football. I have seen the growth and potential of our game across the CONCACAF region and around the globe and look forward to create additional opportunities for women in football. ”Our confederation is well-positioned to continue supporting and inspiring its member associations to build, develop and elevate the women’s game,” LeBlanc said. LeBlanc, who will be based at CONCACAF’s Miami head office, will report to the Chief of Football Officer, Manolo Zubiria. CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani, welcomed his countrywoman to
Karina LeBlanc the post, at a time when he said the Confederation is broadening and consolidating its development and growth portfolio. ”We are very pleased to welcome Karina LeBlanc as head of CONCACAF women’s football. She brings vast knowledge and passion for the sport, having played for 18 years and served as an advocate to provide access for more women to the game,” he said. ”She is the right leader to support our mission of advancing and promoting women’s football in a sustainable and scalable way. She will contribute to increase participation and awareness at all levels,” Montagliani added.
Joseph reprimanded after breaching ICC code of conduct Georgetown, Guyana, CMC – West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been reprimanded and handed one demerit point after being found guilty of a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel during Wednesday’s ODI against Bangladesh. The 21-year-old Joseph received an official reprimand following his actions towards Bangladeshi opening batsman Anamul Haque in the second ODI in Guyana which the Windies won by three runs.After dismissing Haque in the third over, Joseph gestured the opener back to the dressing room. He was found to have violated Article 2.1.7 of the code which relates to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his/her dismissal during an international match”. The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Richard Illingworth and Gregory Brathwaite, third umpire S Ravi, as well as fourth umpire Joel Wilson.After the match, Joseph admitted to the offence and accepted the sanc-
Wayne Forde GFF President
Ian Greenwood - GFF Technical Director
barks on qualification in the first instance for the CONCACAF Gold Cup next year but the long term vision is qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The FIFA Forward Project formerly the Goal Project being constructed at Providence, East Bank Demerara where the national body is constructing its own facility would be another plus with regards to continuous training for local players rather than just focusing on FIFA dates, Greenwood posited. ”We’ve got a new Head of Recruitment and Player Liaison Officer who would be also tasked with looking for contracts and opportunities outside of Guyana for our local players also.” Expanding on the issue of players feeling they have reached their pinnacle once they have reached the national team, federation President Wayne Forde believes that it has a lot to do with the unprofessional environment here. ”When we look at the way clubs manage players it’s really not overly inspiring for a player so to most players, once they have gotten to that
level where they have played for the national team, they stop dreaming. Not just stop dreaming, they are not in an environment that imposes on them the level of discipline and professionalism that is so important to take care of yourself because you have players that would play a national game tonight and then they’ll drink six bottles of alcohol of some sort after the game and no professional player taking care of themselves would want to live like that.” Forde believes that there needs to be a serious level of consistency as a fraternity in the messages that are being given to players and that’s why the focus of the federation is on the young players. ”Because we think we can indoctrinate the young players that are now coming through the academies to really understand the value of taking care of themselves, taking personal responsibility for how well they protect themselves and how they care themselves and how much that would contribute to their growth and the opportunities that they can access.”
Cristiano Ronaldo settles tax row with Spanish authorities
Alzarri Joseph
tion proposed by Chris Broad of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing.Level 1 breaches
In the forward thrust to take Guyana’s football to new heights, Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Technical Director Ian Greenwood has disclosed that the new Technical Staff which would be led by Head Coach Michael Johnson would be working with the locals to create more awareness of understanding where their talent can take them. In a recent interview, Greenwood noted that local players having made the national team believe that that is and haven’t been able to push on in terms of advancing their careers beyond these shores. ”The new coaching staff that we would have around them with their contacts out in the football, world are going to be opening players eyes to where football can really take them, so it wouldn’t be a case of we’ve made the national team and that’s it. When we qualify for the CONCACAF Gold Cup it’s going to open massive doors for all the Guyana based players and also for the international players it would add another two years to their careers as well from the exposure.” On the job for about 18 months now, Greenwood further shared that the way the team would be operating in Brazil will really open everyone’s eyes to what a national team should look like and how it should operate. The flagship national senior team, ‘Golden Jaguars’ will embark on a two-week train/play camp set for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from August 12-25, next as the GFF em-
carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points.
Spain’s tax office has accepted a deal with Cristiano Ronaldo to plead guilty to tax fraud and pay a fine of close to €19million (£16.9m) in exchange for a reduced prison sentence that will likely be suspended. A source with knowledge of the deal confirmed yesterday the agreement will be finalised in the coming days. The deal was first reported in Spanish media. In Spain, a judge can suspend sentences for two years or less for firsttime offenders. Ronaldo had already reached a tentative deal with the state prosecutor’s office, but Spain’s tax authorities (Continued on page 33)
Cristiano Ronaldo
Friday July 27, 2018
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Kaieteur News
GTTA/ITTF Umpires Programme concludes tomorrow Yoanna Ramirez, Colombia’s tennis expert that is conducting the umpires’ international certification programme.
The participants of the programme listening keenly to Ramirez during yesterday’s training session. The Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) is currently hosting an International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Umpires’ programme at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH). The initiative is part of the GTTA’s development programmme and it is being held in collaboration with the Latin American Table Tennis Union (LATTU).
The four-day long event which began on Wednesday will close off with a grading exercise tomorrow and it is being conducted by Col o m b i a n Te n n i s e x p e r t , Yoanna Ramirez. Training involves two components, namely the Basic Umpire Course which is funded by the GTTA and the International Umpires (IU) Course and exam
which will be conducted tomorrow. According to Linden Johnson, Secretary of the G T TA , “ T h e I U c o u r s e gives successful umpires the opportunity to become internationally accredited with the chance to participate in International competitions worldwide given the high demand for the services of IU accredited
Mr. Guyana Kerwyn Clarke out of CAC Championships Regaining Mr. Guyana Kerwyn Clarke who is in pristine condition and was scheduled to represent his country at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Bodybuilding & Fitness Championship in Mexico on Sunday is now unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances. The bodybuilder informed Kaieteur Sport yesterday that due to the illness of his mother and the loss of some valuable resources pertaining to his travel he has been forced to cancel the trip. ”Most regrettably I would like to inform my sponsors and other supporters that I am now unable to attend the championships this weekend due to unexpected emergen-
cies prior to my departure,” he added. Clarke informed that his mom took ill and had to be rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre before being taken to the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital where she was admitted. He indicated that when he was about the leave the Diamond Health facility, he learnt that vagrants broke into his motor vehicle and stole a number of personal belongings and other valuables pertaining to the his travel, this he said was a big setback. However, the determined athlete said all is not lost and he intends to participate at another championship shortly. “While I am currently
in contest prep mode and a state of readiness to compete, there is another competition in Aruba from August 4-6 where I intend to participate and will not disappoint my sponsors and fans.” Clarke wishes to extend gratitude to his sponsors; Fitness Express, International Pharmaceutical Agency, Star Party Rentals, BK International, Professional Key Shop, ACS Auto Spares, Windjammer International Hotel & Cuisine, Attorney-at-law Sohan Punai, The Guyana Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, Space Gym, B. Constantine and Sons as well as Hugh Ross who has always been supportive.
umpires for continental world circuit events among others.” Johnson noted that there were athletes and umpires both at the novice and intermediate level attending the course with some coming from as far as region seven and eight. There were always participants from the mining town of Linden (region 10)
and Essequibo joining the Georgetown based enthusiasts. The bilingual Ramirez noted that she was happy to help the GTTA improve the level of umpiring in Guyana. “It’s a nice group, they want to learn and they ask a lot of questions. They are really easy to work with and they are learning really fast.”
Johnson explained to Kaieteur Sport that many players had been encouraged to be a part of the training since having comprehensive knowledge of the rules of the game will only augur well for the development of any player. This is the first time that such a programme has been offered and hosted in Guyana.
GBTI Lawn Tennis Open
Downes and Fraser are Open Champions A handful of spectators watched on, on a cold and windy night at the Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry (GBTI) Lawn Tennis Court in Bel Air on Tuesday night as defending Men’s Open Champion Anthony Downes overcame a couple of stoppages due to rain and an injured leg to successfully defend a title he has won for past eight years. This year Downes, several levels in standard above the other competitors, trounced Jonathon Fagundes 4-0 in a one sided battle. Men’s Open Ladies Open Junior Boys Junior Girl’s Mixed Doubles Men’s 35 Men’s Doubles Novice Men’s 45
In the Ladies Open Final, number one seed Cristy Campbell was forced to retire during the second set against eventual Champion Kalyca Fraser after she began suffering cramps during the first set with the score tied at 4-4 after completing the first set, 7-6. After taking a medical time out with the score 2-1, Campbell returned to the Court but in obvious pain and was eventually forced to retire hurt at 4-2 thus forfeiting the match. The presentation of prizes took place on Wednesday.
Full Results: - winner Anthony Downes, runner up Jonathon fagundes - winner Kalyca Fraser, runner up Cristy Campbell - winner mark McDonald, runner up Jeremiah Kaleykeyzi - winner Sarah klautky, runner up Kalyca Fraser - winner Heimraj Resaul /Kalyca Fraser, Runner up Leyland Leacock - Kizzy Richmond - winner Leyland Leacock, runner up Andre Lopez - winner Anthony Downes/ Leyland Leacock, runner up Sandeep Chand/Andre Lopez - winner - Aubrey Younge, runner up David Rose - winner Andre Lopez, runner up Aubrey Younge
PAGE 36
Friday July 27, 2018
Kaieteur News
Guyanese did well for Windies Blind Cricket Team – Assistant Coach Ganesh Singh According to Assistant Coach of the West Indies Female Blind Cricket Team, Guyanese Ganesh Singh, the five Guyanese players performed exceptionally well in the recently concluded Bilateral Blind cricket series between the West Indies and the England in Barbados. Singh, a fast bowler in the West Indies Senior Blind Cricket team, informed that the Guyanese players were the backbone of the Windies team and performed beyond expectation throughout the series. The Guyanese were Crystal Aulder and Rosemarie Ramitt (B1); Melieka Crawford and Ackila Smith (B2) and Robecka Edinboro (B3). They played five T20 matches over a five- day period following three days of intense training guided by the coaches from England and the Windies management teams. ”The training sessions were conducted to facilitate the gelling of the two teams and for the English to impart knowledge and skills to the Windies females; most of whom were new to this format of cricket,” Singh stated. Aulder Captained the Windies team and according to Singh, she led the side with distinction and was the leading scorer for the series with 154 runs and a top score of 53, which was the only the fifty in the series. Aulder also had three not outs from five innings, opening the batting and was named player-of-the-match and received a plaque in the game she scored her half-cen-
BCB congratulate... From page 38 work of producing players for Berbice and Guyana despite efforts by the powers of our country’s cricket to frustrate our efforts. Congrats once again to Shimron and we look forward to more innings like this in the future. We would also like to call on CricketWest Indies to invest in Shimron as he is the future of the West Indies by naming him the Vice Captain of the Test and ODI teams. He may be young in age but has the maturity of an outstanding leader and we are confident that he can be the next Graeme Smith. Best wishes are also extended to the entire West Indies team as they strive for a series victory.
Ganesh Singh tury. Edinboro, who opened the batting with Aulder, was named the Best B3 player of the series and received a plaque after making 112 runs with a top score of 36. In addition to her batting success, she took two wickets and participated in seven run outs and was one of the best fielders in the series. Singh, who hails from Mahaica, a village that produced Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Colin Croft and female Windies player Indomattie Goordial, informed that Crawford was the Windies Wicket Keeper and did a good job behind the stumps although it was her first time keeping wicket. She also made some useful contributions
with the bat when she was required to bat. Smith, who did not get an opportunity to bat in any of the games but did an exceptional job being the runner for the other batters (B1) and some B2’ who required runners). She was also exceptional in the field having a few run outs and saving a lot of runs for her team. Ramitt the only B1 player from Guyana was the main B1 batter for her team and was part of some useful partnerships with her captain. She also bowled well in the five games. The WI team won one of their five games. In the game that they won, Windies batted first and made 148 with Aulder being the top scorer. The English team was bowled out for 132. ”In the other four games the Windies performed very well although they did not win the games, commitment and passion was evident in all the WI players” Singh noted. He feels this was a learning experience for the cricketers and would only assist in growing the sport amongst the females with vision disabilities both in Guyana and the region. The English team has been playing for a number of years and for most of the WI females it was their first exposure to blind cricket. The
The five Guyanese players at the Grantly Adams International Airport in Barbados. Guyanese girls had very intense training at the National Stadium prior to travelling to Barbados under the supervision of captain and vicecaptain of the Guyana senior team, Kevin Douglas and Singh, both of whom are WI senior players. The Guyana Blind Cricket Association (GuyBCA) wishes to express its gratitude to the
following individuals and entities that made it possible for the players to travel to Barbados and participate in the series through their contributions: His Excellency President David Granger, Director of Sports Christopher Jones and th e N a t i o n a l Sports Commission, Ms. Shelly Bhagwandin and her team at the United Women for Special Children
(UWSC), the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), P&P Insurance Brokers, Komal Singh and his team at Gico Construction Inc.; Noble House Seafoods; Goodwood Racing Service, Stadium Manager Anthony Xavier and his team at the Providence Stadium; Avinash Ramzan, Sean Devers and Vidya Ramnarine from the media fraternity.
Windies Captain Holder commends Hetmyer, Paul, Bishoo By Zaheer Mohamed Following their three-run victory in the second One Day International (ODI) against Bangladesh at Providence on Wednesday night, West Indies Captain Jason Holder heaped much credit on the Guyanese trio of Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul and Devendra Bishoo. Hetmyer anchored the West Indies innings, scoring his second ODI century and first on home soil, 125 which came off 93 balls. Paul bowled tidily in the latter stages as he conceded 43 from seven overs picking up one wicket in the process while Bishoo whose spell pegged back Bangladesh’s chase finished with figures of 10-0-39-1. The third and final game will be played in St. Kitts, tomorrow. Speaking with the media following the game, Holder said it’s good to see a young player stepping up and scored a century. “Hetmyer batted brilliantly, it’s good to see a young player showing maturity. We would have had this debate for quiet sometime, I was telling him it’s been
a while since a Guyanese batter scored a hundred in international cricket and it’s good to see Hetymer doing so. This says a lot for Guyana’s cricket and hopefully he can be the stepping stone for a lot of young players to follow,” he added. The Windies skipper stated that Paul bowled very well towards the latter stages of the innings. Paul is one of the guys who I hold close to my heart, his performance was excellent I have seen his from the U19 level and he has a lot of passion for the game. I supported him as much as I can and I also got the encouragement from him. So it’s really good to see a young player like him coming and hold his nerves,” Holder posited. Holder pointed out that the last over worked out well for him. “I wanted to start the over well, with a few dot balls, it worked out for me and I got an important wicket which really pushed them back. I am happy I was able to hold my nerves and they guys really supported me.” ”I knew the conditions
would have gotten tougher to bowl in under lights, with the dew the ball tends to slide-on so we had that on the back of our minds. I still felt 270 was a decent total and it was up to our bowlers to defend it, we didn’t really had the best of starts, myself an Alzarri were sliding and it was difficult to grip the ball. It was just about getting through the power play overs and it’s nice to see the spinners Bishoo, Nurse and also Chris holding their own.”He said this win gave them much needed confidence ahead of the final game. “We fought really hard to comeback in the game and finish it off, each individual should be proud of themselves. Hopefully this could be the start of good things to come and we can build for the World Cup.” Looking at tomorrow’s fixture, Holder indicated that there is always room for improvement. “We can always improve, we still need partnerships upfront and hopefully we can score around 300.” Tomorrow’s final of the threematch series starts at 09:30hrs.
Jason Holder
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Friday July 27, 2018
16th Annual IPF/ NAPF C/ship – Mexico
GAPLF 8-Member team to leave tomorrow Frank Tucker
Franklyn Brisport
Carlos Petterson
Erwyn Smith
Nadina Taharally
The Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) eight-member team to the 16th Annual IPF/ NAPF North American Regional Powerlifting Championship to take place in Mexico City from August 1 – 4, next will wing out tomorrow. A press release from the federation has indicated that two females and six males will be seeking glory and have all done well locally having broken numerous records and have all shown the potential to medal in Mexico. ”The federation is proud to have shortlisted these athletes to represent Guyana at this upcoming competition Name Grace Babb
Grace Babb
GFF Elite League Season III
Nairianjan Singh and will be supporting them throughout the competition”, the release ended. Competition would be held at the Murillo Grand Ballroom - Sevilla Palace Hotel. The athletes are: Division Women’s Classic Open, 72kg
Nadina Taharally Women’s Classic Open and Women’s Classic Masters I, 72kg Paul Adams
Men’s Classic Open, 83kg
Franklyn Brisport Men’s Equipped Open and Men’s Equipped Masters II, 66kg Carlos Petterson Men’s Classic Open and Men’s Equipped Open, 93kg Nairanjan Singh Men’s Equipped Open and Men’s Equipped Masters IV, 83kg Erwyn Smith
Men’s Equipped Open, 93kg
Frank Tucker Men’s Equipped Open and Men’s Equipped Masters III, 105kg
Today’s matches postponed; Double-header to be played on Sunday The GFF Elite League will continue with a doubleheader on Sunday at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora due to the un-playable conditions at the Georgetown Football Club Ground (GFC). Sunday’s double-header will see Buxton United FC taking Milerock FC from 18:30hrs and Den Amstel FC opposing New Amsterdam United FC two hours later. Today’s matches and the third match of what should have been a triple-header on Sunday, Cougars vs GDF, have been rescheduled for a later date to be announced. The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) regrets
any inconvenience caused. Admission to the matches is five hundred dollars and children under age 12 and women will be added free of cost.
Paul Adams
Kaieteur News
PAGE 38
BCB congratulates Shimron Hetmyer The President and Members of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) have sent a congratulatory message to Berbice cricket hero, Shimron Hetmyer on his brilliant century against Bangladesh in the second ODI at the Providence National Stadium on Wednesday night last. The release stated that, every Berbician is filled with pride as Shimron continues to uphold the high standards of our cricket that was set by legends like Rohan Kanhai, Basil Butcher and Alvin Kallicharran. At the tender age of 20 years, he has already scored two ODI centuries and along with Roy Fredricks and Clayton Lambert are the only Berbicians to have scored ODI centuries. The BCB would like to encourage Shimron to uphold his high standards and to keep the Berbice flag flying high. Thousands of youths in the Ancient County look up to the young warrior as a positive role model and this innings would serve as an inspiration to those who hope to follow in his footsteps. Berbice cricket is on the rise again and with players like Hetmeyer, Anthony Bramble, Devindra Bishoo, Romario Sheperd, Veersammy Permaul and Keon Joseph, we are confident that they would inspire our upcoming stars to greater heights.
Friday July 27, 2018
The Guyana Cricketer Magazine 2018 edition unveiled
GCB Marketing Manager Raj Singh displays the magazine in the presence of GCB Secretary, Anand Sanasie.
T
Shimron Hetmyer
The BCB would like to assure every youth in the county that we are committed to working hard to make sure that everyone has an equal opportunity to
fulfill his or her full potential on the field of play. We would also like to encourage all clubs to continue their outstanding (Continued on page 36)
GFF/Pele Alumini Frank Watson U-15 Intra Association League – Berbice The Berbice Football Association leg of the GFF/Pele Alumini Frank Watson U15 Intra Association League is set to resume on Sunday at the Esplanade Park, New Amsterdam with three matches. Following are the fixtures: Arsenal FC vs Cougars FC 11:00hrs Corriverton Links vs Monedderlust FC 12:30hrs Hopetown Rangers vs Rosignol United 14:00hrs
he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) launched the latest edition of ‘The Guyana Cricketer’ Magazine on Wednesday night at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. Marketing Manger of the GCB Raj Singh gave an overview of the magazine which is being distributed free of cost. Secretary of the GCB Anand Sanasie said this year’s edition is being done to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the GCB and captures everything that would have happened throughout the year including statistics and also targets cricket development. He called on sponsors for their continued support. Former international cricket commentator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira briefly recalled his boyhood days adding that his passion for cricket developed at a tender age. President of Cricket West Indies (CWI) Dave Cameron in his Foreword congratulated the GCB and its affiliates for their continuous work and commitment they have shown towards the
development of cricket product. “You are now at the ripe age of 75 years and that maturity represents a significant contribution to the development of the game in your territory”, he wrote. ”Over the last five years, the number of competitions won is a clear indication of the commitment, dedication and execution of a work programme which keep the players, administrations and supporters at the top of their game. As president of the CWI, I am always impressed with the fact that Guyana cricket brand continues to strengthen and is also producing a wide range of male and female cricketers, for all formats and levels, in and out of the region. That level of continuous work, on and off the field, is truly commendable,” Cameron stated. The magazine also includes messages from Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton, Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin and GCB President (ag) Fizul Bacchus as well as a report from Sanasie. The book captures the GCB 2017 awards ceremony and carries features with
national youth players Sheldon Charles who hails from Region 1, but now resides at Lima, Essequibo Coast, Kevlon Anderson of B e r b i c e a n d D C C ’s Raymond Perez. Columns by Ian Haynes on former West Indies offspinner Lance Gibbs, an article entitled ‘Reflections’ by ‘Reds ‘Perreira, ‘My Guyana All Time XI by John R ams in g h , H is to r y o f Cricket Administration in Guyana by Charwayne Walker, Cricket in Guyana by Stephen Camacho, Guyana’s Test cricketers by Rajiv Bisnauth and 2018 cricket calendar are all included in this year’s edition. Singh expressed gratitude to its sponsors and all others who contributed towards the success of the magazine. Copies were presented to former West Indies players and now selector Travis Dowlin, Ministers Gaskin and Norton, former President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana Donald Ramotar, Director of Sport Christopher Jones and Perreira. (Zaheer Mohamed)
Weekend Fixtures for the EBFA/Juicy Juice U-13 League 13. 5. 21. 22.
Diamond Upsetters Samatta Point/Kaneville Herstelling Raiders Diamond United
vs vs vs vs
Match Day 6 Soesdyke Agricola KK Warriors Hararuni
28.07.18“ “ “ “ “ “ “
10:00hrs 11:15hrs 12:15hrs 13:15hrs
23. 24. 25. 26. 27.
Timehri Panthers Herstelling Raiders Swan Samata Point/Kaneville Diamond Upsetters
vs vs vs vs vs
Match Day 7 Soesdyke Hararuni Agricola Diamond United KK Warriors
29.07.18“ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “
10:00hrs 11:15hrs 12:15hrs 13:15hrs 14:15hrs
Kaieteur News
Friday July 27, 2018
PAGE 39
Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ National Championship, kicks-off tonight in Pouderoyen
The Pouderoyen Tarmac will come alive tonight, when the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ National Championship, kicks-off. The street event which is expected to last for three days will be contested in an initial group stage. Each team will play two games in the group round, with the resulting group winner advancing to the semi-final round. A win during normal time will translate to three points, while a win on penalty kicks equates to two points. If teams are tied on points, goal differential will be utilized as the first tie breaker. If that is equal, the head to head record between the teams will be used once the teams would have played each other. If not, goals scored will be utilized followed by goals against. Each match will be of 20 minutes duration, with two periods of 10 minutes. If a winner is not decided within the aforesaid regulation time, kicks from the penalty mark will be utilized to
decide the victor. In the opening fixture at 19:00hrs, West Side Ballers oppose Silver Bullets, while ESPN match skills with Disconnection in the second matchup from 19:30hrs. The third contest will pit Leopold Street against Dave & Celina’s from 20:00hrs, while Showstoppers engage Swag Entertainment in the fourth affair at 20:30hrs. In the fifth matchup, ESPN battle West Side Ballers from 21:30hrs, while Silver Bullets tackle Disconnection Crew in the sixth showdown at 22:00hrs. In the final two matches, Swag Entertainment battles Dave & Celina’s from 22:30hrs, while Showstoppers lock horns with Leopold Street from 23:00hrs. The first of three night will set the tone for the tournament, as fans will witness the best teams from the respective zones battling for the most coveted title in street-ball. The tournament will then move to the Haslington
Guinness action at the Pouderoyen Tarmac last year. Ta r m a c , E a s t C o a s t Demerara, for the second night of action on August 1st. The fixtures for those matches will be released shortly. The grand finale of the tournament will be staged at the National Stadium, Providence. According to the tournament coordinator Travis Best, “The tournament is expected to be highly competitive, with an outright
favourite unable to be selected due to the competitive nature of all the competing teams.” The coordinator further said, “The expectation is that highly competitive football will be show and that the large fan base which is expected to descend on the venue with be treated to quality football on the night.”
Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal tournament on tonight in Linden With the march pass and kick off set for tonight at the Mackenzie Sport Club (MSC) Hard Court, the fifth annual New Era Entertainment organised M o h a m e d ’ s Enterprise/ExxonMobil Futsal tournament, received timely support yesterday morning from Broad Money Auto Spares at the company’s Republic Avenue location, Linden. During the simple but significant ceremony, Broad Money Auto Spares representative Dukquan Rose made the presentation of the sponsorship cheque to Director of New Era, Aubrey Major Jnr. Tonight, the 20 teams from Georgetown, Linden and the West Demerara will be begin the clash that will last over seven playing nights at the same playing venue which has benefited from some recent renovations compliments of the New Era promotional group, for the grand cash prize of $600,000. In addition, when the final whistle is blown on August 18th, the runners-up will receive a handsome $250,000, third $100,000 and fourth place $50,000 in the competition which has been sanctioned by the
- Broad Money Auto Spares chips in
Broad Money Auto Spares representative, Dukquan Rose, hands over the sponsorship cheque to New Era’s Aubrey Major Jnr. Guyana Football Federation (GFF). The tournament will follow a group roundrobin/knockout format with 20 teams being divided into four groups at the first. Eight potentially exciting matches have been carded for tonight
that from 18:30hrs. Mines FC and Red Line will have the honour of playing this year’s first match while the feature match of the night will see Good Fellas matching skills with Hard Ball at 23:10hrs.
Please see complete fixtures below: 01 18:30hrsMine FC vs Red Line 02 19:30hrsF i g g y Green Jaguars vs Russian 03 19:50hrsCustom (Continued on page 32)
Fixtures for the opening night: West Side Ballers vs Silver Bullets ESPN vs Disconnection Crew Leopold Street vs Dave & Celena’s All-Stars Showstoppers vs Swag Entertainment ESPN vs West Side Ballers Silver Bullets vs Disconnection Crew Swag Entertainment vs Dave & Celena’s Showstoppers vs Leopold Street
19:00hrs 19:30hrs 20:00hrs 20:30hrs 21:30hrs 22:00hrs 22:30hrs 23:00hrs
Lusignan Open to be contested August 4-5 The Lusignan Open is scheduled for August 4-5, next and permits any player with a verified handicap to participate. Non-members (except for Lusignan residents and caddies will pay greens fees in addition to tournament fees).It is the first look at the talented players who are expected to compete in the Guyana Open set for November 3-4, 2018. Following is the Calendar of Events: - Registration completed by 4 pm August 2. Registration fee is $7,000. - Confirmed registrants will join for a cocktail/media event at the clubhouse on Friday August 3 at 6 pm. Draw will be announced. - Practice rounds will be played on Friday. - Play commences at 12:30 pm on Saturday and 10 am on Sunday. - Lunch and snacks will be provided along with cold beverages on the course during play. - Awards ceremony will commence at 4 pm on Sunday. - Prizes for Best Gross Overall places 1-3 and Best Net in all three flights for places 1-3
- There will be prizes for longest drive and nearest to the pin on Day 2 which will be showcased at the conclusion of the round (all players will participate in front of the crowds on Tee box #1 for the Long drive title down fairway #1 and then hit to the #9 green from #1 Tee box for nearest to the Pin) - Barbecue will be available for pick-up on Sunday from 12 pm and each ticket is eligible to win one of over $200,000 in prizes. There are 22 companies who will be a part of the Lusignan Open and will be on hand to promote their products and services. Lots of prizes will be given away to winners and spectators as a fun filled weekend is guaranteed.Persons wishing to promote their business or services may do so during the Lusignan Open by contacting Philip on 220 5660.
rt o p S
GBTI Lawn Tennis Open
Anthony Downes (seated left) and Kalyca Fraser also seated are pictured with the other winners and top performers and GBTI representatives following the presentation of prizes.
Downes and Fraser are Open Champions P. 35
Mr. Guyana Kerwyn Clarke out of CAC C/Ships P. 35
Kerwyn Clarke Reigning Mr. Guyana
Windies Captain Holder commends Hetmyer, P. 34 Paul, Bishoo
Shimron Hetmyer (left) chats with Keemo Paul during the West Indies innings.
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