Online readership yesterday 103,757
July 29, 2014 - Vol. 7 No. 30 - Price $80
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Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
BK Int’l transfers gold, diamond prospecting licences to Sun & Sand Group - India-based coy avoids background checks
Minister Westford now offering limosine services Woman’s skeletal remains…
Missing teacher’s mother says - suspect belt at scene is daughter’s released Brassington files 13 lawsuits against Kaieteur News
Winston Brassington
Two bodies float up from PM confirms latest pirate attack murder
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Two bodies float up from Brassington files 13 lawsuits PM confirms against Kaieteur News latest pirate attack murder
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wo bodies were discovered on Monday and reports of another being cited and tied up in the Corentyne River have confirmed that the missing fishermen have been killed and dumped overboard possibly as a result of the latest edition of piracy. The decomposed body of Omesh Derhup 33 of No. 79 village Corentyne was discovered around 06:00hrs on Monday by fishermen in the area, on the Kildonan foreshore. He was later identified by his mother, Kamla Simon. A fisherman, who upon stumbling upon the body, ran all the way to the police station to make the report. The body was so badly decomposed that the post mortem examination was performed by Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan where it was found. Up to press time the result was inconclusive. According to his mother there were signs that her son was tied up and beaten. The woman said that her son was not living with her, that he was living and working with b o a t o w n e r, B e e r a m Persaud, called “Ram” During the postmortem of the first body investigators received information that another decomposed body was found, this time at the Alness foreshore, Corentyne, Berbice. The body was later identified as that of Naresh Persaud, 22, one of two brothers who were on the boat and nephew of the boat owner. Dr. Brijmohan conducted the post mortem around 11:00 hrs where it was found and he gave the cause of death as due to multiple injuries. Both bodies were buried on Monday at the Babu John cemetery due to their decomposed state. Investigators had received word that there was another body at the No. 35 foreshore, but as they descended on the area there was none. Word out of the area on Monday evening was that fishermen had found another body, which was tied out in the sea. However investigators could not confirm the information. The two men, Derhup
DEAD: Omesh Derhup and Persaud were part of a five-man crew that left for sea on July 11, 2014, aboard the fishing boat “Miss Seema” which is owned by Beeram Persaud called Ram of Number 60 Village, Corentyne. The boat was reportedly found around 16:30 hrs on July 25 last on the Whim Foreshore, Corentyne. The vessel had reportedly left the Skeldon Estate wharf with the captain, Deownanan ‘Rajesh’ Ravindranauth 43 of Crabwood Creek and his crew members, Omesh Derhup, Ramesh and Naresh Persaud who are brothers of the boat owner and Prakash (only name) on July 11, last. Beeram Persaud had reportedly told investigators that the vessel with the men was supposed to return after 11 to 12 days but it did not. According to reports, a man who was only identified as “Redman” saw the untied boat in the muddy area and informed the police since it is unusual for boats to be in that section of the shore. When police visited the area, the boat registration along with the missing men’s clothing, hats and haversacks were discovered inside the vessel. The engine was intact but no fish, seine or anchor were found. A source had stated that contact was made with Persaud because the registration was left in the boat. Contacted for a comment, an upset Persaud told Kaieteur News that he doesn’t have any comments to make. He blurted out that we should contact Ramoutar. “You all should ask he. Them deh a build big International Hotel fo wah? Why them can buy two
patrol boat fu save people life.” “Me two nephews them (dead). Na call me; call the president and ask he if he concern about anything ...about people life.” The last piracy attack occurred on July 8, reportedly when pirates attacked a fishing crew and dumped the fishermen overboard. Feroze Hack, the lone survivor from the July 8 piracy attack, alleged that at around 22:00 hrs that night three masked pirates stripped their fishing boat before attacking and kicking them overboard somewhere in Suriname. He had stated that he survived the horrific attack by floating in the sometimes rough water. He claimed not to know what happened to his crew members after the pirates drove their boat over them. One week after the incident, the body of one of the fishermen, Andrew Gopie, washed up on the Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara foreshore. Those still missing from that attack are Vinesh Drunarine of Uitvlugt, Raymond Gomes and Chandrapaul Jallim, of Recht-Door-Zee, West Bank D e m e r a r a . T h e investigations are ongoing.
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n what might be a local record in the field of litigation, head of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) Winston Brassington, through his attorneys, has filed 13 lawsuits against the Kaieteur News, seeking damages totaling $1.3M for alleged libel. The lawsuits which were served on the newspaper company and its Editor-inChief Adam Harris yesterday were all filed between July 18 and 21, last. All the lawsuits stem from statements contained in the newspaper’s popular satirical column “Dem boys seh”. The lawsuits date back as far as January. A c c o r d i n g t o Brassington, some of the statements contained in the columns were published falsely and maliciously and were libelous of him and the office he holds. In his statement of claim, Brassington said that by using the contentious statements in the columns, the newspaper and its editor meant and were understood to mean that the NICIL boss was “dishonest, and had been guilty of criminal activity and was habitually guilty of criminal activity and had engaged in criminal fraud
Head of NICIL Winston Brassington
Kaieteur News Editor in Chief Adam Harris
and corrupt practices” in the conduct of his work. He is also claiming that the newspaper wants its readers to believe that he wrongly procured by unauthorized means, preferential financial treatment from state resources for third parties. Additionally, he claimed that the publications were calculated to cause and did cause him “serious public embarrassment, humiliation, ridicule, odium and injury to his reputation, both n a t i o n a l l y a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y, b o t h personally in his official and professional capacity.”
In addition to the cash, Brassington is seeking an injunction, restraining the newspaper from further publishing the statements that were cited in his statement of claim, as well as other statements that have similar defamatory effects. Five of the law suits were filed on July 17, six on the following day, while the two others were filed on July 21. The newspaper and its editor in chief will contest the law suits. Brassington is being represented by Attorneys Miles Fitzpatrick, SC; Timothy Jonas and Dennis Paul.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Another twist in $800M contract…
Unlikely all Surendra pumps are in the country - PRESIDENT RAMOTAR
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t is unlikely that all of the large drainage pumps ordered by Government from an India-based contractor are in the country, says President Donald Ramotar. The President was responding to questions from the media during a press conference at State House on Saturday. There had been questions over the pumps since the US$4M ($800M) contract was inked in early 2011. Under a Government line of credit from India’s Export-Import Bank, Surendra Engineering had been awarded a contract for the supply of eight fixed and six mobile drainage pumps to help boost the ones already in the system. Surendra had been the
contractor for the US$12.5M Enmore Sugar Packaging Plant. It was a surprise when that company, which had no history in the pump business, won the award. With Guyana’s coastlands below sea level and with the bulk of farmlands located there, flooding has been a major problems faced by the country for years. The complex network of managed conservancies, kokers and sluices has been under pressure to manage the flood waters which have time and again threatened. In 2005, a significant chunk of the country’s Gross Domestic Product was wiped out after a devastating flood damaged farmlands and homes. The pumps are
part of the answers to the flooding. Almost three years later, only one has been commissioned so far…at Rose Hall Town, Berbice. According to President Ramotar, others have been completed at Skeldon and Black Bush Polder in East Berbice and at Lima, Essequibo Coast. Another one has just been completed at Paradise, East Coast Demerara. Kaieteur News and other media houses have been questioning the delivery of the pumps and their locations. Minister of Agriculture, Dr Leslie Ramsammy and his other officials had been less than forthcoming and seemingly confused. In a glaring case, the
Minister had said that one of the fixed pumps was earmarked for Patentia, West Bank Demerara. He had said this on a number of occasions. That was changed recently when questions were raised over the pump and its specifications. The Minister then said
that the pump there was one supplied by contractor, Harrichand Tulsi, who also constructed the facilities to house it. O n S a t u r d a y, t h e President said that under the government programme, 39 pumps will be acquired between 2012-2015. These include the 14 from
Surendra. With all of the six mobile pumps in Guyana, the President said that if the rest are not in the country, they will be here in the near future. It was discovered that the pumps and engines were brought from different suppliers.
Prime Minister joins Muslims for Eid Ul Fitr
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds joined Muslims at the Peter’s Hall Masjid, E.B.D, yesterday, to commemorate Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan or the month of fasting.
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rime Minister Samuel Hinds joined Muslims at the Peter’s Hall Masjid, East Bank Demerara, yesterday, to commemorate Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan or the month of fasting. The Prime Minister extended greetings to the gathering, pointing out that Ramadan is an important
month, one that carries a message of precepts and lessons which are well recognised for all people, in all religions. “For us in Guyana, development is probably at the beginning and the ending of our agenda. We do want development, in particular we want material development, we want our country
to be developed and we all want the opportunity to make a better life for all of us here in Guyana,” he emphasised. The Prime Minister also noted that in the effort to make a better material life, certain other things are not sacrificed. He said that during Ramadan, “we learn that we can voluntarily
deprive ourselves of many of the comforts which we worked for such as food, drinks and relationships, and we make this sacrifice from morning to evening and we learn discipline”. He commended all Muslims who have conformed to the requirements of the Holy Month, and encouraged them to continue in
the spirit of humanity which will aid social harmony in society. Eid-ul-Fitr brings to an end a month of fasting and worship in which Muslims abstain from food and drink, from dawn to dusk which serves to reinforce the universal values of discipline, care and compassion in the teachings of Islam.
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Tuesday July 29, 2014
Eight cops found guilty of disobeying INDECOM
KINGSTON , Jamaica Eight police officers who were brought before the court by the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) for failing to comply with a lawful request of the Commission have been found guilty. Senior Resident Magistrate, Georgiana Fraser handed down the verdict in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s Court at approximately midday yesterday . The policemen ;Orrette Wi l l i a m s o n , Gerville Williams, Francis Rennalls, Devon Noble, David Hutchinson, Petro Green, Marcel Dixon and Kenneth Daley are to be sentenced onThursday. However, Resident Magistrate Georgiana Fraser says she will not impose a
custodial sentence. As a result, the cops could face a fine of up to $3 million. The cops were on trial in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s Court for refusing to cooperate with INDECOM in a murder case. INDECOM had served notices on the cops in connection with the shooting death of 16-year-old Derrick Bolton and Rohan Dixon in Tredegar Park, St Catherine in August 2010. They, however, declined to comply and took the matter to the Constitutional Court challenging the powers of INDECOM. The Constitutional court ruled that INDECOM acted within the scope of the law when it called for the policemen to furnish statements in relation to the
fatal shootings. This case is the first INDECOM matter to be completed by the courts. The police officers were charged under Section 33 of the INDECOM Act for disobeying a Notice issued to them pursuant to Section 21 (of the INDECOM Act). Section 33 (beer) states that: (ii) “Every person who: without lawful justification or excuse fails to comply with any lawful requirement of the Commission or any other person under this Act…commits an offence and shall be liable on summary conviction in a R e s i d e n t M a g i s t r a t e ’s Court to a fine not exceeding J$3m or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or to both such fine and imprisonment.”
Second case of Chikungunya confirmed in Jamaica The Health Ministry says the second case of Chikungunya virus has been detected in Jamaica. Director, Emergency, Disaster Management and Special Services, Dr. Marion Bullock Ducasse says in this and the previous case, the individuals travelled from an affected country where they were infected with the chikungunya virus and became ill here. She says there has been no local transmission of chikungunya in Jamaica. “I want to urge persons who have traveled to chikungunya-affected countries and are experiencing symptoms on arrival in Jamaica to visit their doctor or the nearest health centre immediately,” she said. She also encourage travelers to cooperate with health personnel who are working to reduce the possibility of spread and
impact of the disease on the population. She said the Ministry will continue with its heightened surveillance and efforts to reduce the vector through the vector control programme. Chikungunya is spread by the Aedes aegypti which is a day-biting mosquito that will almost always be found in and around areas where people live, work and play. The mosquito breeds in water that settles in containers around homes, schools, churches, workplaces and playgrounds. Symptoms of chikungunya fever include high fever, joint pain mainly in the hands, wrists and ankles and other joints, headache, muscle pain and a rash. Although it does not often result in death, joint pains and stiffness can last for months and even years.
It may become a source of chronic pain and disability resulting in the individual being unable to attend work or school. Infants and the elderly are at greater risk for more severe symptoms. There are some diseases that may increase the risk for severe symptoms such as diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Anyone who experiences any of the symptoms of chikungunya is asked to visit their doctor or the nearest Health Centre immediately. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is reporting that as of July 25, 2014, 29 countries and territories in the Region of the Americas have reported cases of chikungunya with local transmission and a total of 5,260 confirmed. In addition, there have been reports of 643 confirmed imported cases.
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
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NORTON’S OPTION The controversies surrounding yet another disgraceful Congress of the Peoples’ National Congress/ Reform are raging. The disenfranchisement felt by persons who believed that they were delegates and thus entitled to vote at the Congress has stirred widespread debate within the society. But within one month all is likely to be forgotten. Things will be restored back to normalcy and the challenge of Aubrey Norton will be put on the back burner of public interest. New issues will emerge that will galvanize the supporters of the opposition and the present leadership of the party will once again become the darlings of the now disenchanted supporters of the party. When it comes to the party that people support, their memories of the wrongs and mistakes of that party are often shelved away into inaccessible recesses. Was it not just a few years ago that Vincent Alexander suffered the same fate as Aubrey Norton did this past weekend? And has history not repeated itself? But very few people seem to have remembered the experience of Vincent
Alexander. This is how short the memories of supporters of political parties have become. We repeat the mistakes of the past because we choose to forget it. For those who wish for genuine change to emerge out of the confusion at the PNC/ R Congress this past weekend it is necessary for them to not allow for one month to pass before deciding on their next step. They must act now. They must build on the present discontent over the nonaccreditation of delegates. They must not allow the moment to pass because if they do within one month they will be forgotten and sidelined, just as was done to Vincent Alexander. Aubrey Norton is no political pushover. He is being presented as a mobilizer and a strongman of the party. But he is much more than that. He is also a solid academic whose intellect can outmatch any within the leadership of the PNCR. He has a deep and wide understanding of political theory and is perhaps the most profound thinker within the PNCR when it comes to power sharing and shared governance. His academic positions on this subject have
Dem boys seh...
Brazzy hit de Waterfalls paper wid a lucky ‘13’ De other day dem boys seh that monkey know which limb fuh jump pun. When dem old people come up wid that saying, dem didn’t tek Brazzy, de fat crook, into consideration. If dem did do that dem woulda seh that gorilla know which tree fuh jump on. He weight is ten times de weight of a monkey. Brazzy is not a monkey. He send 13 lawsuit yesterday alone to de Waterfalls paper. He nah know how much luck he give dem boys, because 13 is dem boys lucky number. Two judge know that, because dem award dem boys two $13 million already. Dem boys know that dem talking de truth and no judge gun rule ‘gainst dem. He is also a man who when he go in de witness box, does get amnesia. Dem boys watch he many times in court. All de mouth he got in he office, pun de road and when he walking wid de Bees, does get small when he got to answer questions before judges. Dem boys can’t wait fuh these lawsuit come up before a judge. Dem boys lawyers gun mek he get runnings. Dem and all can’t wait. By de time de case done people can’t call he fat crook no more. People got to call he fine crook. De Hanna Rebel is another one. People in he vehicle, PRR 7498, pass by de Waterfalls paper, not one time but two times in three minutes. Dem boys see dem de first time when dem lower de window, slow down and tek out photographs. Like de photos nah come out good, because dem mek another spin and come back. This time when dem meet in front de Waterfalls paper dem stop and tek out more photo, then speed away like thief in de day. Dem boys got a message fuh de Hanna Rebel. Dem don’t have to tek de photo in secret. If is photo dem want from de paper, dem boys willing to give more than de photo of de building and vehicles. Dem boys willing to pose naked fuh dem, in front of de building if that photo gun turn dem on. Talk half and send back dem quack fuh more photo.
been published. And as was shown at the last Congress he has support within the ranks of PNC/R supporters. He knows that he has a significant following. That following did not emerge overnight. It began years ago when Vincent Alexander, Winston Murray and Carl Greendige were preparing their challenges to the leadership of the PNC/R. Norton was a key figure in both camps. The support he enjoys has not waned. But it will within one month unless those willing to follow him are provided with leadership and with a strategy. As a shrewd political thinker, Norton would know that he has to make a decision about his future and make it fast. He would have already
been weighing up his options and deciding what to do. There are a number of options on the table. The first would be to press for a Special Congress to demand fresh elections be held for the all the positions in the party. The issue is not just the leadership position. Norton and his team would have had a slate to contest other positions because any prospective leader wants to have a supportive cast in the Executive of the party. As such there are other persons who would have been denied the opportunity to contest for other positions on the Executive because of the confusion over delegate accreditation and cards at the just concluded Congress of the PNCR. Special Congresses have
Govt. supports UN inquiry into Gaza situation As Muslims across the globe observed Eid ul-Fitr yesterday, the government signaled support for the United Nations Human Rights Council’s call to launch an international inquiry into the situation in Gaza. Government’s support comes at a time when the ceasefire order by the United Nations was disobeyed. And, the fighting has killed more than 1,040 Palestinians, 43 Israeli soldiers and three civilians on the Israeli side. While reiterating calls for a peaceful and lasting solution to the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, which resulted in the loss of lives, Government wants those accountable to be brought to justice. According to Aljazeera, (another media outlet) missiles struck several sites in Gaza, including a park inside a refugee camp and an outpatient building of the
strip’s largest hospital amidst Eid al-Fitr holiday. Eight persons, including seven children, died following missile fire on a park inside the Shati refugee camp on the edge of Gaza City, Aljazeera reported. According to the Guyana Government, it is following the tragic events obtaining in Gaza and condemns in the strongest of terms the deaths of hundreds of innocent lives including women and children. “We also express our deep condemnation of the war crimes being committed and the Israeli air strike on the United Nations Shelter for refugees which has killed over a dozen people. Guyana deeply regrets this additional loss of life and injury,” Government said. Government stressed that this action has signaled a wanton disregard for the internationally renowned symbolism of the United Nations.
been held before. There is constitutional provision for the hosting of such Congresses and Norton and his team should explore whether they have the necessary leverage to force such a Congress. In deciding whether to press for a Special Congress of the party, an assessment would have to be made as to the possibility of the same old ploys that were used to disenfranchise Norton’s supporters will be reenacted. Unless there is confidence that the machinery to organize such a Congress and press for new elections are in place, then another option should be pursued. That option would be to create a new PNC using the PNC. Given the personnel that are in Norton’s corner, such a development would create a political momentum that could see the reemergence of the old PNC. The third option would be to bow out of politics all
together. At age 57 that is still a strong possibility. It is doubtful whether the AFC leadership would be interested in someone of the robustness of an Aubrey Norton. The leadership of the AFC would feel insecure in his presence. And of course they will see the possibility of capitalizing on his noninvolvement in politics. As such, they are not likely to make any overtures towards him. His political future, therefore, is really bound up with two options. Either he fights to have a Special Congress or he reestablishes the original PNC. It is all up to him. But he only has one month to make his decision.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Aubrey Norton, Vincent Alexander: THE SADNESS OF A NATION Here is an incident with Aubrey Norton I always conjure up in my mind when his name hits the spotlight. Our most erudite son (for those too young to know; one of the most brilliant lawyers the world produced) JOF Haynes came up to me and with his peculiar gesticulations, asked me into his office. He said, “Freddie, I know you question everything at the Faculty Board (Social Science Faculty Board at UG) and make a noise about everything so I need to talk to you about something.” JOF (as all Guyanese fondly called him) said he was going to present an altered grade from B to A for Aubrey Norton
and he thinks that I am the only one that is going to object. He said it was perfectly legitimate because looking back at Norton’s performance in the course, he was an A student. Then JOF said Norton is a very bright student who deserved an A grade. I had no objection for two reasons. First, if JOF said so that was sufficient for me. Secondly, I know Norton was a first class student. I got to know Norton better years later and indeed he has an admirable analytical mind, I think only matched by Vincent Alexander in the PNC the last thirty years. It was with sadness that I read that he is in
contemplation about leaving the PNC. If that happens then with the long departure of Vincent Alexander, the PNC may never be the same again. Whatever the PNC becomes from hereon, the PNC will remain a weak organization because of the loss of personnel like Alexander. Now Norton. Guyana is indeed a sad place. There is one thing about Norton I respect and that is Norton has respect for his own intellect over his ideology. Norton lets you know plainly that he is an academic and he puts his intellectual analysis above ideological propaganda. Against this background he remains the only substantial PNC stalwart who would sit around a table with you and concede that Burnham was an authoritarian leader but would argue in the same breath that Burnham was a fantastic achiever. I have never seen this with any other person in the PNC leadership since 1985 when Burnham died. All you get from these people is the most immature, inane and
embarrassing denials of the autocratic things Burnham has done. It becomes so pointless that you want to leave. Not so with Norton. He would concede one against Burnham. Then he would defy you on some of your castigations against Burnham. The declarations by Carl Greenidge last Sunday about the state of the electoral arrangements at PNC’s congresses together with Norton’s sad reflections have damaged the PNC badly, and Mr. Granger in the process. Mr. Granger is a man of integrity and it is the one thing that there is consensus in Guyana about Mr. Granger. I would go so far as to say that outside of the wonderfully good leaders I know in the AFC, Mr. Granger has no match in the PPP for nationalism and integrity. Therefore, it is incumbent on Mr. Granger to ensure that what transpired Sunday afternoon at the PNC
congress does not tarnish his national standing. This is the second congress that respected PNC stalwarts have laid charges of delegate tampering. Only Faith Harding has come out openly and made that accusation. I don’t believe even for a fleeting moment that Ms. Harding would have polled more votes than either Granger, Greenidge or Basil Williams but what she should be judged on are the facts in her accusation. This columnist was told by two persons deep in the PNC leadership who confided in me that the voting in the previous congress was not above board. Now in 2014, two leading national names in politics are echoing that fear – Norton and Greenidge. It comes at a time when the PNC does not need that kind of stain. It would seem that certain Western countries have come around to the idea that the PPP is a dead historical force
Frederick Kissoon and the PNC should be given its chance to be in government. For a long time now, certain Western countries stuck with the PPP because there were enormous hesitations about whether the PNC had changed sufficiently to be trusted in government. With the last election results and under Granger’s leadership, these governments have accepted that the PNC may be able to do better in government than the PPP. Now look what has happened. The PNC press release that the PPP used elements to disrupt the congress obviously points to Norton, Solomon and others. Is the PNC losing it?
Region Ten recommits to developing PNC/R …WANTS GUNMAN TO BE CONDEMNED The Region Ten delegates to the 18th biennial congress of the People’s National Congress want the police to pursue the gunman who recklessly discharged his firearm in Congress Place. “He must be held accountable for recklessly endangering the lives of all who were around and for the reckless use of his firearm, even if he is a licensed firearm holder.” “Region Ten calls on Mr. Granger and all party members to condemn this wanton disregard for the lives and safety of party comrades and immediate sanctions on this gun-toting menace, who must not be sheltered or protected by friends and contacts in high places.” At issue was the confusion that surrounded the congress. Sharma Solomon, the head of the Region Ten delegation said that the PNCR like any other political party or mass based organization “has had its share of glitches in previous elections, but never of such magnitude, never with such unresolved grievances and such chaotic outcomes.” He said that Region Ten is committed to have all outstanding issues over the
last two years addressed by putting in place acceptable modalities. “These include the electoral processes and other pressing internal matters that gave rise to the chaos. These are conditions that Region Ten perceived months ago and was desperately seeking to have addressed internally, with the avoidance of conflict through the party decision making forums and the accreditation committee which unfortunately was never allowed to function effectively to produce credible end results.” “Congress is over, and we are now faced with the task of moving forward, of mending our rifts, of correcting our weaknesses and building on our strengths to face the national challenges that go over and beyond the challenges we face internally. “Region Ten remains committed to leading this change and this effort to unify our party to achieve the goals that are necessary for our development and for the development of all other regions and the people of Guyana. “We are prepared to work to ensure that the democratic structure which our party can
proudly boast of is strengthened. As it is, we consider the fact of our members’ willingness to speak out on issues, though not fully attained, a positive for our Party.” A statement released by the Region Ten delegates noted that the PNCR “though shaken by this recent chaos must grow from these experiences. Region Ten shall continue to set the tone for change, not only in the party but in other parties where members fear to challenge, have no electoral processes and have leaders foisted on them. “We are proud of the structure put in place by Founder Leader LFS Burnham to ensure maximum participation and involvement of our members. We are proud of the systems that are enshrined in our Constitution for handling of grievances. “Some have violated these and may be encouraged to continue such violations for whatever reason and purpose, but we must hold them accountable, for this is what we are allowed to do when working in accordance with the constitution and party rules. Region 10 recommits to doing exactly that.”
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
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WOMAN’S SKELETAL REMAINS…
MISSING TEACHER’S MOTHER SAYS - suspect BELT AT SCENE IS DAUGHTER’S released Benschop and Carol Greene leaving police headquarters yesterday
“That is my daughter’s belt.” This is what a stunned Carol Greene, mother of missing teacher Nyozi Goodman, told detectives yesterday after being shown the canvas belt that was wrapped around the right hand of the skeletal remains found at Pattensen, East Coast Demerara last Thursday. Ms. Greene visited Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, early yesterday, where she was shown a bag containing the belt and a pair o f Vi c t o r i a ’s S e c r e t underwear which detectives found next to the remains. Detectives also took hair samples from Greene which they claimed will be taken overseas so that it can be determined whether the decomposed remains found at Pattensen is that of missing teacher, Nyozi Goodman. “I cannot say whether the
panty belongs to my daughter because she has a lot but they showed me a canvas belt and it is definitely hers. I know my daughter had two belts and when I was packing her stuff, I did not see her canvas belt,” a devastated Greene said. She added that ranks took hair samples from her and asked that she return at another date with one of Goodman’s siblings so that blood samples can be taken. The samples are for DNA testing and will be sent overseas early next week. According to a senior police source, the samples will either be sent to Jamaica or Barbados. A decision will be made later this week. Social activist Mark Benschop had offered to pay for DNA tests which would have been sent to a local laboratory, but police turned the offer down. Asked if the police force ever considered doing the
tests locally, a senior police official said that even the private labs take the samples overseas to be tested. “These labs do not do the tests here. They send it overseas just like we do,” the senior official added. He said that in most cases, it takes several months before the DNA results return, but, in this case, police will try their best to get the results earlier. Asked if family members can pay to have the tests done at a local laboratory, the police official said that given the fact that this is a police investigation, the Commissioner of Police will have to make a decision. Police confirmed yesterday that a taxi driver who is being questioned about Goodman’s disappearance was released yesterday. Meanwhile, a seemingly distressed Carol Greene lashed also out at the Guyana Police Force saying that they have her like a “roller coaster.” “I am living in Linden and the police have me going and coming and they are not saying anything to me. If I don’t call them, they would never call me,” Greene said. She explained that a police telephoned her last Thursday and informed her that they had found the remains of a female and that they need a relative to travel to the city to identify the items found next to the corpse. Ms. Greene said that her son immediately traveled to the scene but did not report what transpired at the scene to her. “My son did not tell me anything because he did not want me to take on too much. On Sunday, the police called me and asked that I go to the police headquarters to take samples to do a DNA (test).” Greene said that she went to Eve Leary yesterday and after a rank took samples from her, she asked that she be allowed to see the items that were found at the scene. “They did not show me anything. I had to ask them to show me the things they found and when they did, it was in a transparent bag that was already sealed. They refused to open the bag and allow me to identify the items,” Greene said. The woman added that it was only after she expressed her dissatisfaction with the
way the police were treating her, that she was asked to revisit police headquarters later yesterday and was shown the items. According to a postmortem conducted at the scene last Friday, the victim was bound, stripped naked and bled to death after being repeatedly stabbed. The slain woman was about five feet, five inches tall, appeared to be of African ancestry and was between 25 to 40 years old. She is believed to have died some three weeks ago. And, according to sources, the missing teacher is about the same height. She also had a ‘rotting tooth’ which is a feature that was observed on the remains. Goodman disappeared on July 6, last. She was last seen at the National Sports Hall where she took a few of her students to participate in the Inter-Secondary Schools’ Basketball Championships.
MISSING: Nyozi Goodman
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Tuesday July 29, 2014
Pres. Ramotar dismisses fears of a Chinese takeover
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iven the level of money that has been invested in Guyana and the region at large or has been committed for future investments by China, Head of State, Donald Ramotar, has dismissed fears that the Chinese will become the new colonialists of the region. Ramotar, speaking at a press conference at State House on Saturday, said that his view was that this was not
the intention of the Chinese. He said that Guyana can safeguard itself by enforcing its laws. The President pointed out too that the Chinese are not the only source of funds available since there are other options. He pointed to the recent establishment of a US$500B bank which has been established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS). According to the
President there are options “that allow us a greater degree of freedom to operate.” The President said that he was not afraid or worried about the potential of China becoming the new colonial masters of the region. He said that Guyana has been seeing the many examples of the effectiveness and efficiency of the Chinese investors and work with regard to the country’s infrastructural
development. Last week, Ramotar attended a forum between China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in Brazil. At that forum he said, “For many of us, investment by China has helped keep us afloat. Chinese investment has been important also in helping us in having the necessary investments in our own countries. “In Guyana for example, in expanding our airport transport system and many of our roads, the Chinese assisted us. I would like to express our profound support for the initiatives being taken.” At present, there is a significant level of investment in Guyana by Chinese companies such as Bai Shan Lin which has been involved in large scale logging. There are also numerous projects involving Chinese and Chinese money such as the One Laptop Per Family programme, the construction of the Marriott Hotel, construction of several sections of the Amaila Falls Access Road, the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and the
Head of State Donald Ramotar meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping widening of the East Coast Demerara Highway among others. There is also a significant presence of Chinese investments in competition with locals. China is also expected to finance the bridge across the Corentyne River. China has committed to investing more than US$1B in Guyana in the near future. Earlier this year a Chinese-owned shipyard was commissioned at Coverden, East Bank Demerara. At the commissioning of that facility Ramotar said, “I want to extend special
greetings to the Chinese investors who have come here and to let them know that they are welcome in Guyana.” He said too that China has tremendous capabilities, evidenced by the tremendous progress that the country has made in just over three decades. China’s growth is also unmatched when compared to equivalent countries in any part of the world, he said. “To see how fast that country has grown in just over three decades, speaks volumes for Chinese investors and their readiness to take risks. It also speaks volumes of their skills, of their traditions and customs and their dedication to work and labour, and that is something we hope that we can emulate in our country,” the President said.
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
Aviation regulators enforce landing practices
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egulators have sounded a warning to airline operators about the need to keep familiarising themselves with safety practices when landing. The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the country’s aviation watchdog, has reissued a notice to operators in accordance with standards of the Convention on International Civil Aviation when landing on hinterland airstrips. “It was something that had to be done because we are very concerned. Recently, several aircraft have encountered gusty winds and wind shear conditions that have resulted in damage to these aircraft,” said Robeson Benn, Minister of Public Works. Pilots were reminded of the need to follow the Visual Flight Rules (VFR) when operating. “Each aircraft has its own peculiar reaction to crosswinds, but generally a good crosswind landing begins with a good approach. This is taught to pilots and every opportunity must be taken to re-enforce this,” GCAA’s Director-General Zulficar Mohamed emphasized in the bulletin. According to GCAA, with the landing phase very demanding, operators were advised to have their pilots follow the approved procedures. If these parameters are not achieved, a go-around or diversion is necessary. The option of the “goaround” manoeuvre in order to maintain proper approach and landing and an aborted landing of an aircraft that is on final approach, were highlighted in the bulletin. “This procedure should be a habit in everyday Visual
Flight Rules (VFR) so that a pre-determined go-around plan is always fresh in the mind during the approach and can be executed at any time the approach is in doubt.” Most importantly, in situations where meteorological conditions or terrain features would permit an approach but preclude a safe go-around, then that approach requires extra consideration and perhaps should not be attempted. “Every pilot already knows that proper planning, making wise decisions, situational awareness, adherence to SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) and having an alternate plan of action are all characteristics of good airmanship, which are essential for a safe flight.” GCAA insists that pilots know not only the aircraft crosswind limits, but also their own personal limit and to recognize when these limits will be exceeded. “The best option is to divert to another airstrip. Very often the limiting factor is related more to the pilot than the aircraft. It is therefore important to reiterate that the pilot must know his/her limits and operate within them,” Mohamed said.
Operators are also cautioned to ensure that young pilots be taught the necessary skills to operate safely into the hinterland airstrips. “Pilots must be given the opportunity to practise and develop these skills, and must be comfortable operating into borderline aerodromes before they are required to operate into the aerodromes as pilot-incommand by their respective companies.” In recent times, there have been a number of incidents where aircraft reportedly suffered damage after landing. One that made headlines recently included a report of the pilot seeing cows on the r u n w a y. T h a t a i r c r a f t sustained significant damage.
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Regulators are warning local aircraft operators of the need to follow safe landing practices.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
BK transfers gold, diamond prospecting licences to Sun & Sand Group - India-based company avoids background checks
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ndia-based Sun and Sand Group of Companies, which is chaired and promoted by Rajesh “Lucky” Satija, recently signaled its intentions to make a US$54M investment in Guyana’s hotel industry. It was also quietly
handed two Prospecting Licences last year. BK International, one of Guyana’s biggest construction companies, transferred the two licenses to Sun and Sands which allows for the exploration of gold and other minerals. BK International was later retained as the local contractor for the multi-million dollar hotel at Turkeyen. Prior to revelations of the transfer of the licences, Director of the Sun and Sand Hotel, Bhushan Chandna, had told this publication that the company “did not” have a Prospecting License at the moment but had applied. He had said that the persons responsible for the company’s interest in mining would be coming to Guyana soon. He was unable to answer any other question in that regard since it is not his “baby,” he said. A Prospecting Licence is a permit, issued by the mining regulators, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), which allows the holder (the
licensee) to explore for minerals. With this license, several tax breaks and concessions are granted. Before Prospecting Licenses are given to “big foreign companies” a due diligence or background check is suppose to be conducted on the entity to ensure compliance with Guyana’s Anti Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of TerrorismAct. Because the licence was transferred, Sun and Sand, in effect, avoided the mandatory due diligence process. The application process for a Prospecting Licence includes several steps and a number of requirements. These include the company providing proof of financial and technical capacity and a work programme and budget for the first year of activities. According to a Mining Sector in Guyana 2012 report, the application is processed on satisfactory submission of the required documents and if recommended, by GGMC, will be sent to the Official
Rajesh “Lucky” Satija
Brian Tiwari
Gazette for publication. If there are no objections to the grant, a Ministerial approval is sought. The term of the Prospecting Licence is for three years with two rights of renewal each year. The obligations of the licensee include quarterly technical reports on its activities and an audited financial statement to be submitted by June 30 of the following year for the previous year’s expenditure. Prospecting Licence
properties are subject to ad hoc monitoring visits by technical staff of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s Shadow Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources, had recently warned that large foreign companies seem to have a “calculated approach” when it comes to G u y a n a ’s m i n i n g a n d forestry sectors.
The Member of Parliament said that some foreign businesses would attach themselves to local investors who would have done all the groundwork to acquire benefits and concessions, pretending it would seem, to be just a harmless partnering foreign investor. But the hidden motive is to eventually take over the business and expand. Roopnaraine, who is a member of the Natural Resources Sectoral Committee of Parliament, deems this to be abusive behaviour by “big foreign companies.” H e s a i d t h a t consultations will be pursued with the Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, to make the “necessary amendments” to the relevant laws to close this loophole. These include to the Mining and Forestry Acts. Eventually, the “big companies”, he said, end up “gobbling up the benefits and concessions enjoyed by the local investors and sooner or later they take it over.”
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Police hunt Trinidadian Consultation exercise ...MAN SELLS con artist RENTED CARS continues for $1B
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ocal police are hot on the trail of a Tr i n i d a d i a n confidence trickster who has so far managed to illegally sell several vehicles after renting them from unsuspecting local car rental establishments on East and West Coast Demerara. The police had detained the Trinidadian’s accomplice, Steven Baboolall. However, the detainee was released on $20,000 bail while investigators have set up a plan to capture the mastermind, whose name was given as Daniel Ali. Police said that Ali was working with a list of local accomplices. The locals were holding assets for him, even opening bank accounts for him, while being well aware of his illegal practices. The scheme was busted last week when several car rental dealers turned up at the Vigilance and Leonora Police Stations with reports that Ali, who had rented several cars from them over a period of time, had failed to return the vehicles and had in fact sold the vehicles to other persons. When police tried to contact Ali, he had already gone into hiding. On Friday last, minutes after Baboolall was released from the Parika Police
Station lock-ups, detectives were closing in on the main suspect who was desperate to reunite with his accomplice. According to a source, the police were informed about their location but no one showed up to make the arrest. Also on Friday, another car rental operative turned up at the Vigilance Police Station to report that Ali had rented his car and had not returned it by the stipulated date. The conman and his accomplice were subsequently spotted at a guest house at Eccles, East Bank Demerara by an informant who was secretly investigating them. But by the time ranks arrived at the location, the two men had suddenly checked out of the guest house although they had paid for several more days. Earlier this year both Ali and Baboolall caught the public’s eye when they moved into an apartment at Roraima Housing Scheme, West Coast Demerara, where they were observed spending lavishly and driving several expensive cars. Queries of curious neighbours were met with explanations that the men had come from Trinidad, were very wealthy and were in Guyana to invest in a catering business. They were at that time
overheard making arrangements for sale of cars with a former manager of a popular hotel on West Coast Demerara. But a few weeks later Ali informed that he and Baboolall were now in the business of lending money to villagers in Uitvulgt and would take interest on the sums loaned. He told an informant that a resident from the village had borrowed $1.5M from them and had left two cars with them until the sum would have been repaid. Up to this point no one knew what Ali’s real “business” was. Last Wednesday police detained Baboolall who produced documents to show that he had entered into a contract that secured the loaning arrangement. Such claims turned out to be false as it was later discovered that the cars were actually stolen from a car rental agency. There are reports that the latest car dealer who was conned woke up early Sunday morning to find his car parked in front of his premises and the ignition keys thrown into his front yard. Ali on the other hand has managed to elude the police and may be attempting to leave Guyana for Suriname using the ‘back track’ route.
Businessman plans to migrate after fifth robbery …says he is ‘devastated, scared and fed-up’
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fter being robbed five times this year, a couple who operates the MS Hack and Sons Supermarket at Parika, East Bank Essequibo has decided to migrate. Shaheed Hack of Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara, lost more than $2M on Sunday when armed bandits escaped with a bag of money dropped by his fearful wife outside their home. According to Hack, he sent his wife to their supermarket in Parika on Sunday to collect money from persons who were in debt to them. He said that due to his fasting for the month of Ramadan, he could not accompany her, as he normally did. Hack said that he collects money on Sundays from debtors and pays his employees on Mondays. He explained that his wife returned home around 20:30 hrs, and parked their bus in front of the yard. He said that she had with her $2.7 M that was collected from persons who owed them. According to Hack, who was inside the house, when he opened the front door for his wife, he noticed a silver car approaching her
at the gate. Hack said that his wife was holding the bag of money in her hand while she was making her way into the yard. He said that before she entered the yard, a man exited the silver car and pointed a gun at him while he was at the front door, and told him not to move. When his wife saw this, “She dropped the bag of money in front of the yard, and ran inside the house.” Without noticing that his wife dropped the money, Hack said that he locked the door in order to secure himself and wife. During this time, the gunmen made off with the cash. Hack said, “I am devastated, scared and fed-up. I invest so much money and people coming and take it away. They only looking at what I have and not how much I owe.” Hack noted that after he related the issue to his son overseas, he has decided to sell his belongings in Guyana, including his supermarket, to migrate for ‘peaceful living’. Hack said that he is “fed-up, because the police only come, take a statement, and never turn up again.”
clean-up campaign
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onsultations are expected to take place in several sections of the city, as part of the massive $1B clean-up project announced by the government. According to a notice published in Sunday’s edition of the news, the committee overseeing the “My Country Clean –up Programme,” continues to gain momentum, given that a number of consultations and work have been completed during the first phase of the project. “Currently ongoing is a second round of consultation for the remaining communities within the boundaries of Georgetown which include communities between Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara and Agricola, East Bank of Demerara.” The communities include Kitty ,Charlestown Queenstown, Alberttown, Subyranville, Bel Air Gardens, Bel Air Park, Prashad Nagar, Bel Air
Promenade, Kingston, N o r t h C u m m i n g s b u rg , Meadow Brook, Tucville, Lamaha Park and Tiger Bay. Communities not outlined in first two phases will be included a third round of the project. The massive cleanup project commenced in March, with promises that $100M will be spent on Le Repentir Cemetery, the revitalization of public assets and the implementation of flood preventative measures. The project, which is spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government, is aimed at restoring Georgetown to its former glory as the highly esteemed “Garden City,” as well as the general environment and aesthetics of urban and rural areas. At the launch, Minister of Local Government, Norman Whittaker, said that special emphasis would be placed on drainage since “one of the primary contributors to flooding is the absence of proper drainage so that excess water resulting from
rainfall could be removed within a specific time. Silt that remains in the main and internal drains that water can’t flow freely out is another. A significant part of the programme is intended for desilting of the community roadside drains, alley and parapets with emphasis being placed on clearing canals, at Downer Street, Young Street, Lamaha and Princes Streets, among others. Whittaker also mentioned repair and possible rebuilding of kokers during the projected sixmonth-long project. He said, too, that the Local Government Ministry will, in some cases, be looking to restore other public assets, inclusive of sluices, cemeteries, monuments, public spaces, markets and the seawall. As it relates to solid waste, the Minister said a number of illegal dumps sites have been identified and special focus will be given to the garbage problem.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Pres. Ramotar lauds Japan’s PM on transfer of technology
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President Donald Ramotar meeting with Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan
ead of State, D o n a l d R a m o t a r, yesterday joined CARICOM Heads of Government in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, for a meeting with Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan. This was the First Summit of CARICOM Heads of State and Government and their Japanese counterpart. It took place as the countries are celebrating in 20 years of CARICOM-Japan Friendship. The discussions centered on the vulnerabilities faced by CARICOM Members towards achieving sustainable economic growth, strengthening the relations between Japan and CARICOM at the bilateral level and enhancing cooperation at the multilateral level. President Ramotar expressed his appreciation for Prime Minister Abe’s recognition of the developmental challenges of CARICOM Member States. He spoke, particularly, of those member states now qualifying as middle or high income countries no longer being eligible for concessional loans and grants from international financial institutions. He acknowledged Prime M i n i s t e r A b e ’s s t a t e d support to represent the position of CARICOM member states on this issue in the fora of the developed countries. President Ramotar highlighted financing for development as one of the eight Millennium
Development Goals that was still to reach its target as very few developed countries had made good on the pledge of 0.7% of GDP towards developmental assistance to vulnerable countries. He requested Prime Minister Abe’s further support in advancing the need for this commitment to be met. With reference to climate change, President Ramotar thanked Prime Minister Abe f o r h i s G o v e r n m e n t ’s assistance to CARICOM Member States in the area of humanitarian responses to natural disasters and in the promotion of measures to address adaptation, mitigation and disaster risk reduction. In their bilateral meeting, the leaders of Guyana and Japan took the opportunity to reiterate their desire to enhance the relations of the two countries. President Ramotar referred to r e n e w a b l e e n e rg y, infrastructure and science and technology as areas where Guyana could benefit from Japan’s expertise and assistance. He also encouraged investment from Japanese companies particularly in the area of extraction of minerals. It was agreed that the two sides would pursue these and other areas of cooperation in the near future. President Ramotar was accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, and Ambassador Elisabeth Harper, Director General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
Ministry advertises for construction of sewer systems at Synthetic Track
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he Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport still has another loophole to get around before the country’s first Synthetic Track and Field Facility is completed. On Sunday, Government, through the Ministry, invited sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the construction of sewer systems at the facility. The engineer’s estimate for the project is $17,072,182. The Ministry via its Permanent Secretary Alfred King, in the advertisement said that bidding will be conducted through the “National Competitive Bidding” procedures specified in the Procurement Act of 2003. It was noted that the process will be opened to all bidders subject to provisions of section III (Eligible countries) of the document. Interested bidders are asked to obtain further information from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, 71-72 Main Street Georgetown. It was noted that qualification requirements include a valid National Insurance Scheme (NIS) Tax Compliance
Certificate. Bids for the construction of the sewer system at the Synthetic Track and Field Facility must also be accompanied by a bid security of $260,000. All bidders were asked to ensure that there must be site visits and verification of the scope of works before the submission of the bid. It was noted that this was a necessary prerequisite for the qualification for the award. Back in March, Kaieteur News had reported that a German company contracted to lay the synthetic athletic track was paid in full and is back in Germany but the project has not yet been completed. By the end of October, the company was paid all of its money – US$547,192. At that time, only 65 per cent of works was completed. This project was awarded to BSW on March 18, 2011 for US$465,000. But that contract price was later revised due to what the company said was an increase in world market prices for materials. In addition, the German company hired its own
supervisor for the project. That supervisor had to provide additional services, thus sending up the price, further. Alfred King, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, confirmed that the contractor was paid in full and returned to Germany without the job being completed. He said that the company had indicated that it was awaiting good weather before returning to Guyana to complete the job. The company started laying the track in November last but stopped because of rain. Minister of Culture, Dr. Frank Anthony, was quoted by the Government Information Agency as saying that he would have to “re-invite” the company to finish the project. The contract should have been completed on September 18, 2011. The project has a five-year warranty period. The laying of the athletic track is just one aspect to develop the Leonora facility. Other aspects of the project include construction of a Club House/Main Pavilion, spectator stands and parking lots.
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Guyana/Venezuela maritime delimitation ‘high treason’
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enezuela’s deposed Deputy, María Corina Machado, described as “unacceptable” and an act of “high treason” the silence of the Venezuelan Government at the statements issued by Guyanese Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment Robert Persaud, who referred to the presence of Venezuelan navy officers at the Essequibo region as “encroachment.” T h e Ve n e z u e l a n Opposition Leader noted that proposing a committee for Maritime Delimitation at the Venezuelan Atlantic front was an act of high treason, considering that the Essequibo is in dispute. “Guyana intends to separate the territorial dispute from the delimitation of water and sub-water areas. This new move adds to a claim for an extension of the continental platform filed with the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf of the United Nations (UN), both of which threaten Venezuela’s sovereignty and territorial
i n t e g r i t y, ” M a c h a d o remarked in a press release. On Wednesday, July 16, Robert Persaud stated that the presence of Venezuelan officers at the Essequibo meant delays in oil exploration and production at Stabroek and Pomeroon blocks. The senior official explained that the situation has precluded authorities from granting environmental permits to Esso, although operations continue. Stabroek and Pomeroon
were adjudicated by Guyana in 1899, “in breach of Section Five of the Geneva Convention, and ignoring the legitimate rights of Venezuela concerning the Atlantic front,” Machado underlined. (El Universal)
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Fake drugs attract attention of PAHO and Health Ministry T
Dr. William Adu Krow in the company of other PAHO officials during the recent media workshop
he prevalence of fake drugs on the local market is no small challenge that health sectors across the world are faced with. According to Pan American Health O r g a n i s a t i o n ( PA H O ) Resident Representative, Dr. William Adu Krow, Guyana is not exempt from such challenges. Since he assumed the p o s t o f P A H O Representative earlier this year he has had discussions with Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran on such matters. “I think that it is a big issue here...I have advised Government about this and have spoken to the Minister (on this issue),” said Dr. Adu Krow. He pointed out that testing for such shortcomings in Guyana are limited. “We don’t have the system that actually tests the drugs so we have to go with what we call the World Health Organisation (WHO) pre-approved drugs - drugs coming from a place where WHO has already ascertained that these drugs are not fake,” said the PAHO Representative. Dr. Adu Krow, who was at the time addressing media personnel at a PAHOspearheaded workshop, said that once WHO preapproved drugs are procured “we know that they are good drugs.” But according to PAHO’s Malaria Advisor, Dr. Maria Sanchez, while there may be evidence of fake drugs on the local market these have entered the country due to no fault of the Ministry of Health. She explained that as part of PAHO’s work, efforts are currently being made, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, to undertake a study aimed at ascertaining whether the drugs being used by the malaria programme, for instance, are working well for patients. This, according to her, has been done on many occasions, perhaps every two years, in order for Government to effectively monitor the existing malaria programme. “As far as we know, everything is working well but we know that sometimes miners, in particular, in the case of malaria, go and buy drugs over the counter. This is something Government
obviously has no control over,” noted Dr. Sanchez. According to her, some of these drugs are brought in from neighbouring territories such as Suriname, Brazil and Venezuela. “We know that there is not a problem with the medicine Government brings in because we test them in conjunction with the government but the miners choose to go and purchse over the counter drugs rather than going to the health centres to get the (good) drugs,” added the Malaria Advisor. Dr. Sanchez noted too that the whole ‘fake drug’ situation is hinged on what individuals choose in terms of treatment for a particular health condition they suffer. “I wouldn’t buy treatment over the counter somewhere in Region Seven but some people do, but the govt definitely checks the drugs and we help them with that,” Dr. Sanchez reiterated. Speaking to instances where fake drugs have proven to be detrimental, Dr. Adu Krow alluded to an instance where he himself randomly selected five antibiotics from pharmaceutical shops while on work duty in Australia. Following analysis of these drugs it was found that three of the five were fake drugs. Another such incident was found in Nigeria, Dr. Adu Krow said, where medications used to treat children with cerebral malaria were found to be counterfeit. He recalled that 25 children who were suffering from the condition were administered such medications and 16 of the 25 children subsequently died. The medications which were available in a hospital setting, according to Dr. Adu Krow, were analysed and were all found to be fake. “Now the problem in Guyana is that there are many people importing drugs by themselves,” said Dr. Adu Krow as he stressed the need for the situation to be addressed at the Ports of Entry. “We have to deal with the Port Authorities and the customs people who have to enforce that these people pay their import duties...We have to make sure that as they come they give us samples to be tested. I think that we need to start this and the time is right,” added the PAHO Representative.
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
Storm slams Linden, takes off roofing The Mackenzie Sports Club pavilion minus zinc sheets
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Buxtonian granted bail for wounding ‘Rasta Man’
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orrential rain and high winds late Sunday afternoon caused extensive damage to almost 85 percent of the roof of the Mackenzie Sports Club pavilion. Zinc sheets were sent flying, leaving most of the facility exposed to the elements. Constructed in 1956, the Sports Club history is integrally intertwined with that of the Mining Town, as almost every significant event observed in the
community, has been hosted there. Famous for the Mackenzie Sports Club Fair, and the hosting of the first Mashramani celebrations in Guyana, among other notable events, the facility has been graced by members of the royal family, and both local and foreign dignitaries, over the years.Considering its rich history, Lindeners are justly perturbed. Some are already wondering who is going to foot the bill for its
massive rehabilitation. On Sunday the facility took the brunt of a thunderstorm which pummeled the Mining Town. The roofs of several homes were also damaged. The home of the Cummings family of South Amelia’s ward took a beating, with a star apple, coconut and breadfruit tree crashing into the two flat building. Fortunately, the family escaped unscathed, but are still pondering their next
move. The storm, the likes of which, many said, has never been seen in Linden, also uprooted several utility poles, resulting in blackouts throughout the Town, and disrupting telephone service in some communities. (Enid Joaquin)
aramchand Seetal, of Lot 263 Company Road, Buxton, East Coast Demerara appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry and was granted $40,000 bail on a charge of Unlawful Wounding. He was charged for wounding his acquaintance. The police claim that on July 22, last, at Ekereku Landing, Cuyuni River, Seetal wounded Donald Jackson also known as ‘Rasta Man.’ Seetal pleaded not guilty. The Prosecution spearheaded by Inspector Michael Grant did not brief the court on the details of the crime. He offered no objections to Seetal being allowed his pretrial liberty. Addressing the court, the accused stated that he had no prior charges or convictions. The victim was also present in court.
ACCUSED: Karamchand Seetal The Chief Magistrate granted bail and placed Seetal on a peace bond pending the outcome of the trial. The case was transferred to the Kamarang Magistrate’s Court and is set to be called before Magistrate Allan Wilson September 14.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Deputy Mayor sues GPL to carry out extensive Sooba over ‘gay slurs’ line maintenance works TOWN CLERK (Ag) Carol Sooba
DEPUTY MAYOR Patricia Chase-Green
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eputy Mayor, Patricia ChaseGreen, has sued Town Clerk (Ag) Carol Sooba, for in excess of $15M over alleged libelous public statements made on July 18, last. According to a legal document, Sooba, held a media conference during which she made reference to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community and drew analogies, suggesting that the Deputy Mayor might be “attracted,” to her in a similar manner. The acting Town Clerk had expressed concerns that the Deputy was paying a lot of attention to her and continuously involved her (Sooba) in matters addressing the Council. “It worries me badly. I am concerned as to why she would be so attracted to me,” Sooba said suggesting that in light of recent events involving LGBT persons, she would have to seek protection on the issue. Subsequently, a letter sent from the law office of Moore, Harmon, Sobers and Gaskin, the firm retained by Ms. Chase-
Green, demanded that Sooba publicly retract the ‘gay slurs’ or face legal action. Sooba declined. As such, a writ was filed yesterday, in which Chase Greene is claiming in excess of $15M worth in damages for libel. Sooba is accused of issuing to the general media certain defamatory statements, calculated to tarnish and damage the Deputy Mayor’s reputation in her private and professional avocations. According to the writ, the statements which were publicized on television and in at least one daily newspaper, “did indeed bring the plaintiff into ridicule and public opprobrium (public disgrace arising from shameful conduct).” The Deputy Mayor has since asked the court to issue an injunction, restraining Sooba from repeating the defamatory statements by herself or by way of any person or organisation, whosoever may be acting on her behalf. Sooba has since been commanded to provide the court with a response, within ten days.
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n a n e ff o r t t o e x e c u t e maintenance activities, the Guyana Power Light (GPL) commenced its line maintenance service. As such power outages are necessary to ensure the safety of workers and customers’ life and property, according to the power company. GPL noted that Georgetown and sections of East Coast Demerara will experience power outages as the company makes technological advancements under its Development and Expansion Programme. Works undertaken will include upgrading and servicing switches, jumpers, and main and primary conductors; and changing defective p o l e s . T h r o u g h o u t G u y a n a ’s landscape, transmission lines are visible as they navigate an incredible range of environments. Maintaining reliability, extending the useful life of transmission lines, increasing electrical energy transmission capabilities, preventing failures, and ensuring employee and public safety are all at the core of performing line maintenance activities. Line maintenance encompasses periodic inspection and replacement of line hardware etc to ensure the reliability of electric service to customers. GPL’s line maintenance schedule is updated frequently on their website at www.gplinc.net, social media platforms and published in the National press weekly; customers are therefore advised to check the schedule to be informed.
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
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$30M Nursery School for Cummings Park Contractors who are out to fleece the nation represent a major challenge faced by the Ministry of Education. This state of affairs is one that is often characterised by these contractors producing shoddy work. “They give us less stone and less sand; they spend less on the school,” said Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand. “We pay them for what they are supposed to be building but then at the end of the day what we have is a school that six months after (construction) things start breaking, a year after you have to do more work.” The Minister’s remarks were forthcoming as she addressed a community meeting at the Cummings Park, East Coast Demerara, Community Centre, on Sunday. At the meeting she was accompanied by senior education officials to discuss plans for the construction of a new nursery school in the community. Already the sum of $30.8 million has been allocated for the construction of the new school. Currently, the community has no nursery school with the closest one being situated at Turkeyen which is filled to capacity with some 118 children. At the meeting on Sunday, efforts were made to identify an ideal location for the new educational facility to be constructed. “The thing about nursery schools we don’t want you taking your children very far, you should be able to take them close to home and in that way you can walk them to school and pick them up after,” said Manickchand. A decision was in fact made during the meeting to
The meeting at the Cummings Park Community Centre on Sunday have the new facility encroach on a section of the Cummings Park Community Centre Ground. According to Minister Manickchand the move to incorporate residents in the decision making process was one premised on a new policy her Ministry has developed. The policy, according to her, is designed to ensure that the Ministry, and by extension the Government, is able to get value for all money expended. “My new policy is that every new school that we are building we are going to
have community meetings like this where we will give to you the drawings (building plan), the bills of quantity so that you can see how much stone and sand (is being used); what is supposed to be done and by when, so that we get quality for our money,” disclosed the Education Minister. In appealing for the community’s support to ensure that works are done according to detailed specification, she noted that “at the end of the day this is your school, you will be the end users, your children will benefit ...While we know
that we are doing a good thing we want to make sure that everybody is involved to get good work done.” The school, the Minister disclosed, is slated to facilitate the learning process of 130 children and already 118 have been r e g i s t e r e d . M o r e o v e r, consideration was given on Sunday to the possible need for the construction of yet another nursery school in the
community. The construction of the new school is scheduled to commence on Wednesday (July 30) and be completed within a five-month period. Moreover, the school which will have a length of 150 feet x 24 feet is set to be completed by December 30, next. It is expected to include classrooms, a kitchenette, a sick bay, headteacher’s office and a storage area.
Added to this, the works should see the construction of a washroom facility including two separate rooms for persons with disability, three rooms for boys and two rooms for boys, complete with urinal. The facility will also be equipped with water troughs. The project will also entail the construction of a boundary fence and bridge along with a guard hut. The stipulated defects and liability period for the project is six months, and according to Minister Manickchand, during this time the Ministry can withhold some of the contractor ’s money to carefully scrutinise the completed works. “If anything is defective then we can use that money to fix it,” the Minister told the gathering at the meeting on Sunday. However, this could be reduced, the Minister said, if parents are able to scrutinise works throughout the project’s life. The project has been awarded to R. Kissoon Contracting Service.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Causing death driver released on bail T
he 19-year-old driver who swerved off the No.19 Public Road on Thursday, killing a young Guysuco employee has been released on bail. The dead employee was standing in the corner awaiting transportation on his way to work. The driver, Ricardo Ramcharran Approo, 19, of Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Magistrate Rhondell Weaver in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court, yesterday, charged with Causing Death by Dangerous Driving. He was granted $500,000 bail. Approo, who was allegedly driving motor car PRR 9655 as a private hire taxi on July 24, last, at an alleged fast rate of speed is
charged with killing p e d e s t r i a n Vi c k r a m Ramlakhan, 26, of Number 11 Village, East Coast Berbice, a Bell Loader Operator at the Albion Sugar Estate, Corentyne. Ramlakhan was reportedly hurled as high as the electric wire before falling to the ground some 15 feet away after he was struck by the speeding car around 06:40 hrs minutes. He had just left his residence on his way to work. He was standing on the corner of the road awaiting transportation when the speeding car swerved off the road and struck him down. He was picked up in an unconscious condition and rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was pronounced dead on
The driver, Ricardo Ramcharran Approo
The deceased and wife in happy times arrival. He had sustained head injuries. The driver, who told the court that he attends some technical institutions, was allegedly driving at a fast rate of speed. He was on his
way to Moleson Creek to catch the MV Canawaima to drop off passengers who were heading to Suriname. It is understood that the driver tried to overtake a vehicle. He realized late that
he could not make it because a bus was almost upon him coming from the opposite direction. He tried to undertake the vehicle, but a car was parked there and in trying to avoid a collision with the car he swerved and slammed into Ramlakhan, who was standing on the reserved section of the road. The car then hit a lamp post and ended up into a trench. The driver stated that he decided to choose that course of action to avoid a more serious accident. But residents stated that if the driver was more careful the
accident could have been avoided. Ramlakhan was married for five years and had no children. He leaves to mourn his wife, Kavita, parents, two sisters, one brother, other relatives and friends. Ramcharran was placed on bail after the prosecution offered no objection. The matter will be called again on September 2, 2014. He was ordered to lodge his passport. He is to report to the Sparendaam Police station every Monday and Friday.
Tuesday July 29, 2014
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Spares for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc call: 225-9032, 647-2943 PVC Ceiling Panels (USA Standards), all-purpose joint compound, T h o m p s o n ’s c o n c r e t e water proofer – Tel: 6148564; 639-3675; 680-0862 New American made Wener, aluminum ladder: 17 feet$28,000; 24 feet- $38,000, 32 feet- $55,000 – Tel: 609-7257, 602-5794 View Sonic Projectors & computer monitor - Sizes: 17inches – 27inches (new) – Contact: 623-4919; 646-7768 1-Caterpillar 226B skidsteer loader, 1-Caterpillar mini excavator- Contact # 2604988 or 650-0402 1 Power PRO Audio System, 2- 1500 Amplifier, 1- 600 Amplifier, Double CD, Mixer, 18" Speakers etc, selling Cheap – Tel:698-7304 Metal Scaffolding with planks – Contact: 332-5426; 603-0000; 628-8008 3 Stalls in La Penitence Market- Can be sold in Single’s, also 1 double door freezer & 2 glass coolers – Contact Ameer: 695-5815 Games for PS2, PS3, XBOX360, WII, consoles also available – Call: 6722566, 265-3231 Dell/HP computers with 17,” 19"& 20,” LCD screens from $55,000, laptops from $55,000. Contact Future Tech: 231-2206 Yamaha Rigdid, 7125 Watts generator - $299,000, roper (whirlpool) washer - $120,000, Roper dryer- $120,000. Contact: 664-0366; 231-5930 Maytag 2000 series glass door dryer - $195,000, GE stainless steel glass top electric stoves - $195,000 – Tel: 664-0366; 231-5930 1 Whirlpool fridge –ice maker & water dispenser - $199, 000, 1- 19" Flat Screen TV/PC/ Security monitor led - $42,000 – Tel: 664-0366; 231-5930 Dressed and mill cut lumber: Kabukalli, silverballi, greenheart, crab wood etc – Call: 688-6579 School and work uniforms @ Roxie’s Fashion, 301 Church Street ( 4 buildings before Bonny’s Supermarket)
Kaieteur News
FOR SALE Tools, Snapon air compressor, Dewalt & Jack Hammer, Stanley air, computer electrical, Michael Kors bags (original) – Contact: 646-2133; 220-6722 DRESSES: ONE WEDDING, 2 BEDROOMS, 2 AFRICAN, SIZE 12 SILVER SHOE, SUITABLE FOR WEDDING – CONTACT: 264-2498/ 667-5907 One flock of goat – Contact: 696-8103 Fluffy, loving puppies – Tel:645-0240 or 685-0942 Nylon Seine 600lbs, 5 inch for $1.2M, cabin boat 44ft, $350,000, ice box, best offer – Call: 267-1563
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Executive houses & apartments, Queenstown US$1,800, Bel-Air Springs US$2,500, Shamrock Gardens - US$1,800- Tel: 2238479/ 647-3768. www.spaceseek.gy Houses & apartments: One bedroom @ Kitty - $40,000, Bel-Air Park - US$2,500-Tel: 223-8479/ 647-3768. www.spaceseek.gy Houses & Apartments: Durban Backlands US$4,000, Ogle- US$1,200— Tel: 223-8479/ 647-3768. www.spaceseek.gy 1-2 Storey house with workshop space ( mechanic welding) in Bartica, also 1 land for sale - $11.5M neg. Contact:685-2707 Furnished and unfurnished apartment/house in healthy & safe environment – Call: 698-6496 Hair Salon and shop for rent in Mon-Repos – Tel:220-7315 or 626-0020 Fully furnished 1 & 2 bedroom apartments located in Georgetown, for long & short term rentalContact:692-6306, 610-6101 for more info. North Road, business premises – $1500US. Contact Vish Realty: 612-7377 One bedroom apartment @ ‘B’ Field Sophia – Call: 627-3879
VACANCY 24 Hour East Coast Guyoil needs night pump attendants, salesgirl, office assistant & handyman- Call: 670-8893/684-2838 Front Desk attendant, Hotel attendant & Bell Person Contact Hick’s Ville Hotel Tel: 227-7714
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LEARN TO DANCE Learn Latin/Oldies Dancing in 1 Day! @ National Park Tarmac, August 3rd, 1:305:30, $2,000 per person – Call: 612-6475; 629-8842
Drivers/salesman and porters. Contact Vegetarian Gardens – 227-7714 Exist for 2 barbers and two hairdressers, must have their own clients- Contact: 6278277 or 669-6110 Two men to work in poultry farm in the Interior – Contact: 627-6416 Work from home earn $5,000$20,000 daily- Call: 233-6517, jobfairworldwide.com Vacancy exists for qualified Grade 9-12 teachers, in Diamond. Send resume to davidsukhdeo@gmail.com Live in housekeeper to care for infant -35-45yrs old – Tel: 697-8797
CAR RENTAL Dolly’s Car Rental - Call: 225-7126/ 226-3693 dollys autorental@yahoo.com/ www.dolly sautorental.com Progressive Auto Rental: Cars & SUV for rental- $4,000 & up per day- Call: 643-5122, 219-3900 ,Email:pro_ autorental @yahoo.com
PROPERTY FOR SALE
SALON
VEHICLE FOR SALE
Make Up Courses, Artist Trained & Certified in Trinidad. Call: 660-5257, 647-1773 Summer Special: Earn a certificate in cosmetology, wig designs or nails alone, limited spaces - Call Abby: 619-7603, 666-5241
2006 Blue Nissan Titan. Fully Loaded GSS Series. Contact: 604-6108. AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms - Call: 680-3154
Natural beauty salon & spa: Grove Market Street EBD Tele:265-4138,652-5800 specialized in everything for women.
We buy & sell vehicles for cash. Also parts available & 30 seater buses; extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 First Class Auto: 2006 Premio, 2006 Allion, 2004 Spacio, IST, Axela, Fielder, Rush – Call: 609-8188; 6383045 New Toyota Noah, 2 Televisions, reverse camera, rims, low mileage – Tel: 6292619, 663-2700. Owner leaving country, best offer accepted. Smart Choice Auto Sales: unregistered old & new model Spacio, 212, Voxy, BlueBird – Call: 652-3820/ 665-4529 1 AE91 PGG Series, good working condition, $325,000 negotiable – Tel:638-1345; 267-1514
1 – 2storey wooden & Concrete house with 5 bedrooms upper flat & lower flat 4 apartments located@ Shell Road, kitty - $34M – Tel:642-7898 House located @ Republic Gardens - $45M, Atlantic Gardens - $80M, Enterprise $75M. Tel: 223-8479/ 6473768. www.spaceseek.gy House located @ Foulis $75M, Oceanic Ville - $75MTel: 223-8479/ 647-3768. www.spaceseek.gy Houses located @ Nandy Park - $45M, Diamond- $31M & La Parfaite Harmonie $20M. Tel: 223-8479/ 6473768. www.spaceseek.gy 1-2 Storey House &1 Flat house both for $33 Million, prime location, 1-3 storey building with business - $80M – Call: 6864899 or 684-3718 Property @ GoodHope, E.C.D - Tel:621-1722 Section A, 274 Great Diamond, E.B.D, 56’X40’ building on 111’ by 60’ land. $21 Million – Tel: 233-2546, 233-5859 One 2 Storey house & land for sale 25X58 on the West Bank Demerara - $15MContact:622-1782; 658-5803 Mon Repos New Scheme $25M. Contact Vish Realty: 612-7377
MASSAGE The Gents Spa: Beautiful qualified masseuses, new attendants from Cuba & Trinidad, drinks available – Tel: 657- 5979
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.–CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Permanent & Visitors Vi s a Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 2256496, 662-6045 Repairs, sales & spares, air conditioning, microwaves, washer, fridges & stoves. Ultra Cool, call: 225-9032,647-2943 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer Call Omar: 2310655,683-8734 Computerise your business or get support for Peachtree, ETC. including payroll, Semitron Business Services semitrongy@outlook.com 227-7950 Repairs to refrigerators, gas stoves, washing machines, A/C units – Call Lindon: 6411086, 694-2202, 227-8907 For low cost: Repairs to fridge, freezer, A/C unit, microwaves, TV & washing machine – Call: 629-4946 or 225-4822
EDUCATION:
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 Shalom Enterprise Driving School @ 2 Croal Street, Fee $16,000- Tel:227-3869/ 6447052. “Like” us on Facebook. FOR SALE/RENT Mining blocks for sale or lease in Potaro- Call: 6940145
I.A.S Second Street Alberttown, summer classes – 4-17yrs ($5,000 for six weeks), CXC classes for adults, $1200 per subject – Tel: 223-7906; 690-5008 Individual tutoring available for CXC P.O.A in comfort of your own home – Call today for affordable rates: 688-3538 TOURS SURINAME SUMMER TOUR: SHOPPING CASINO, DOLPHIN ETC. AUGUST 1ST-4TH, 7TH 13TH & 18TH -24TH – TEL: 639-2663; 644-0185; 6655171 OR 227-8290
LAND FOR SALE Duke Street – 130 x 21 - $80M, Oceanic Ville – 55 x 95 - $35M -Tel: 223-8479/ 647-3768. Land of Canaan- 21 Acres of transported land from Public Road to conservancies $60M- Contact Vish Realty: 612-7377 ACCOMMODATION Tourist Villa: Furnished Rooms & apartments- 1, 2 &3 bedroom apartments at affordable rates – Lot 95 Fifth Avenue, Subryanville – Tel: 227-2199; 227-2189; 227-2186
2004 Toyota Spacio- Back & front camera, TV/DVD/ CD, unregistered - $2.2M – Tel: 617-2891 Premio – PPP Series - $2.2M and unregistered - $2.450M, negotiable, Spacio PRR - $1.8M – Tel:697-0294; 604-9591 Prado Land Cruiser, automatic, PHH series, $6.8M. Tel: 233-2546, 6885554 2010 Toyota Noah, 13,000Km, smart edition, PSS series, $6.8M – Tel: 233-2546, 6885554 Toyota RAV 4 PMM Series, mint condition. Tel: 602-6986 1600 CC Toyota Sprinter AE100- Contact:645-0240 or 629-3814 Toyota Will VS duty free $1.15M negotiable or duty paid $2.3M negotiable, Corolla AE100 Sprinter - $725,000 neg. Contact:656-3944 Toyota Glanza PLL series, lady Driven - $1M negotiable – Call: 670-7206 Unregistered Toyota Premio - $2.350M – Call: 691-7475 or 657-1796 One Toyota RAV4, 2002 Model, engine capacity 2000cc, in excellent condition, Price negotiable - Tel: 611-1385 TAXI SERVICES GR TAXI: 225-7878; 2271982 or 219-5000 TO LET 1 Bedroom with toilet & bath - $25,000 @ Vreed-EnHoop, 2 Storey 3 bedroom, toilet & bath, fence grill $55,000 –Tel: 685-7566 (Continued on page 24)
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday July 29, 2014
U.S. ‘disappointed’ Netherlands released Venezuelan wanted over drug (From page 23)
WANTED Over edge and straight stitch operator to work at Garment Factory – Call: 2222541 Monday – Friday Salesgirl/boys and porters apply in person, to Avinash Water Street 8:30 to 4:30 Looking for two or three bedroom apartment anywhere in Georgetown – Call: 698-5103 One live in maid must know to cook – Tel: 669-6030 Husband & Wife to take care of farm land – Tel:623-2728 Any amount of scrap metal to buy – Tel:618-1967; 6232728; 698-4321 or 629-2912 We buy previously used green heart wood from demolished building in Central Georgetown area – Tel: 653-4797 Experienced cashiers, counter clerks, roti/puri cooks, kitchen assistant. Apply in person @ Hacks Halaal, 5 Commerce St. Two salesgirl - $18,000 per week, must know to prepare standard rated bills- Call: 223-9676 One handyman/gardener, age:30-50yrs old, preferably living on the E.B.D – Contact:648-3817 Experienced land dredge worker – Tel: 681-3801 One Arc welder must know to do grill work and able to work with limited supervision – Tel: 613-3879 One experienced domestic maid to work in DiamondContact: 626-8003, 227-8529 One experienced salesgirl – Contact: 626-8003/ 2278529 One (1) driver for route 32 minibus – Tel:629-2302 Honest, willing & single live in domestic – Call: 646-1758 between 9am-4:00pm, attractive salary offered!! Hire cars, drivers @ Atlas Taxi Series, VHF Network- Tel: 6613043 Experienced Taxi drivers at Gem’s Taxi – Contact: 6679013 or 225-4526
Reuters) - The United States is “deeply disappointed” the Netherlands released a former Venezuelan military intelligence chief detained over U.S. drug trafficking allegations, and is “disturbed” at reports indicating Caracas used threats to obtain his freedom, the State Department said on Monday. Instead of being extradited to the United States, retired Venezuelan General Hugo Carvajal flew home on Sunday from the Netherlands’ Caribbean island of Aruba after the Dutch government ruled he had diplomatic immunity. He had been arrested on Aruba on Wednesday. Jubilant Venezuelan officials with the ruling Socialist Party celebrated his release as a “victory” over their ideological foes in the United States. “We made a legitimate request for Carvajal’s arrest in conformity with our treaty which governs extraditions between the United States, the Netherlands, and Aruba,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said at a daily news briefing. She said Washington viewed
Carvajal’s claims of immunity as “beyond established international norms.” Opposition politicians in Venezuela and the U.S. government say Carvajal, who ran military intelligence from 2004 to 2008, bears responsibility for years of state connivance in the illegal drug trade. Washington put Carvajal on a blacklist in 2008, accusing him of protecting cocaine shipments from seizure by Venezuela antinarcotics authorities and providing weapons and shelter to Colombia’s FARC rebels. Carvajal denies those charges. Venezuelan officials hailed Carvajal’s release at a Socialist Party congress, calling it a “victory” over U.S. ideological foes. Carvajal was considered one of the most powerful figures during the rule of the late socialist President Hugo Chavez, a U.S. antagonist. The case had threatened a new flare-up in long-tense relations between Caracas and Washington, as well as potentially stirring up accusations of officially sanctioned drug trading by Venezuela.
Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro (R) speaks next to retired General Hugo Carvajal as they attend the Socialist party congress in Caracas. The State Department said Washington would continue efforts to bring Carvajal to justice, blaming Caracas for his release. “We are also disturbed by credible reports that have come to us indicating the Venezuelan government threatened the governments of Aruba, the Netherlands, and others to obtain this
result,” Psaki said. “This is not the way law enforcement matters should be handled.” She did not elaborate on the nature of the purported threats or the source of the reports beyond saying they were “more than media reports.” Carvajal himself accused authorities in Aruba of corruption during a brief
appearance on stage next to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro at the Socialist Party Congress on Sunday night after his return. “The judge and the prosecutor who proceed with my case are corrupt. I suspect they received money for what they did to me,” he said. Carvajal gave no evidence to back up that accusation.
No spin can hide the facts about Granger’s performance From page 4 presidential primary candidate, and exclusion of APNU’s hardest working MP, Mr. Carl Greenidge from the PNCR Central Executive, even though he has the power to co-opt members and campaigned on a platform that unity will guide his leadership of the party. On democracy in the PNC that DaCosta credits him for, Granger inherited a structure in 2012. His management of this structure was under review with Congress this weekend and talks have already been made of his poor management of the party’s business, delegates and membership. Party membership under his leadership has declined. Disgruntlement of supporters and members are louder. Mr. Granger ran on a platform promising a menu of measures in the party and has only delivered on the publishing of the New Nation. On elections, Region 8, where the AFC received the plurality of the vote, the party took the regional chairmanship and gave APNU the vicechairmanship. In region 7 where the PNCR/APNU recaptured the plurality of the votes, it took both the chairmanship and vice-chairmanship and excluded the AFC.
On GECOM, Hoyte had created a policy where the smaller parties were given a commissioner as part of the opposition’s allotment. When the opportunity came with the death of Mr. Robert Williams, Granger did not allow the AFC to fill the seat. The Justice For All Party (JFAP) has since quit APNU, with Mr. Jaipaul Sharma saying the opposition did not give him the support during his run-in with Ms. Priya Manickchand. On Khemraj’s view that Granger believes in the devolution of power to the people, he needs to explain APNU’s position that it will be contesting the local government elections, which is an aspect of our governance structure that seeks to achieve devolution of power. The PNCR under Hoyte allowed the communities to identify their leaders to run in the neighbourhood/village districts and the party contested in the towns. Granger’s approach seeks to centralise and control the people’s power in both villages and towns. On meritocracy, in addition to being Leader of the PNCR and Opposition, and Chairman of the APNU and Committee on Constitutional Review, on the resignation of Ms. Deborah Backer, Granger
designated himself the Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs. Applying the principle of meritocracy, Aubrey Norton would have been the choice candidate given his expertise in the field. And even though Granger holds this portfolio, his policy position on Brazil, China, India and immigration remains unknown. Mr. Granger wears five caps and has failed to perform adequately in any. The examples Khemraj’s cites as offering insight into Granger’s economic philosophy evidently eludes critics, including the author of the claim, who himself found it difficult to educate the readership. Granger, to his credit, is associated with the phrase “A Good Life for all” which seems more like sloganeering than substantive economics philosophy, which is the source of critique. Contrary to Khemraj’s belief, there is no difference in the ethnic composition of protest led by Hoyte and Dr. Walter Rodney. Both had similar characteristics, i.e. urban based, predominantly African, but also included other races. Therefore the fear of Hoyte-led protests and the need to replicate Rodney-led protests should pose no problem to Granger. Granger is no more multi-
ethnic than any leader, present and past, with the only exception being ROAR’s Mr. Ravi Devi, who made public his desire to only represent Indians and comprised his leadership and strategy to this regard. On a party’s political base, every party knows the importance of its base. It is the base that turns up and turns out for you, does the leg and spade work, knocks on doors, and will tarry when others wane, and often times others reap the benefit of their sweat/ sacrifices. The base is a party’s bedrock. And in every base - because no base is monolithic in outlook or desire - there are some who present embarrassing and difficult times for the leadership. This is not unique to the PNC, PPP or any political party, anywhere. What seems to be unique is the desire of some to have the leaders (notably for the PNCR) abandon its base rather than persuade leaders in all political parties to educate their base to respect differences in the other and the need to share space and re-
sources equitably. This base ‘issue’ has reached the point where a base is openly being encouraged to suppress their right to protest against injustices lest they offend an economic class, even though this class has within its midst persons of the base’s identity. This is an interesting ‘economic philosophy.’ It is also instructive that Mr Granger is given credit for the Amaila Falls issue and not Greenidge who was the mastermind - but when APNU falters Granger is absolved from responsibility/ accountability. None of the persons who made a case for Mr. Granger’s re-election as PNCR leader have been able to do so on his performance. And this is because they too know that he has fallen short. Likeability or association does not equal development; performance does. Those who desire the politics of performance, having placed Granger’s performance under critical review and found deficiencies have made them known. No spin can hide the facts. Minette Bacchus
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 25
Police find 15 corpses in Baghdad in Court orders Russia to pay $50 bloody start to Muslim Eid holiday billion for seizing Yukos assets
An armed Iraqi policeman stands guard outside a Sunni mosque during Eid al-Fitr prayers in Baghdad Reuters) - Iraqi police on Monday found the corpses of 15 people, including three women shot in the head in militia-style killings, a bloody start to the holiday marking the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, security sources said. Fears have been growing of a relapse to the dark days of sectarian civil war which peaked in 2006-2007 since Sunni militants seized large swathes of the north last month, building on gains by comrades made in the west of Iraq. Iraq’s U.S.-trained and funded army unraveled in the face of the lighting advance, and Shi’ite militias now rival government forces in their ability to confront the group
formerly known as the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant. Baghdad’s morgues are filling up once again with victims of sectarian slayings, kidnappings are on the rise and the bloodshed is forcing families to flee abroad or move to neighbourhoods where they feel less threatened. This year’s Eid al-Fitr festival marking the end of Ramadan is filled with uncertainty and apprehension as Sunni insurgents set their sights on Baghdad and Iraqi politicians struggle to form a powersharing government capable of tackling them. Police found 15 corpses in different parts of the capital, security sources said. Among
them were three women aged 25-30 who had been handcuffed and shot in the head execution-style in an industrial area just north of the Shi’ite Sadr City district. Further details were not immediately available. Critics say that Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, a Shi’ite Muslim, has inflamed sectarian divisions by marginalising Sunnis instead of unifying Iraqis against the insurgents, now called the Islamic State. Maliki, who has served in a caretaker capacity since the election in April, has said he would seek a third term despite calls from Sunnis, Kurds and even some Shi’ites for him to make way for a less polarising figure.
(Reuters) - U.S. and European leaders agreed yesterday to impose wider sanctions on Russia’s financial, defense and energy sectors as Ukraine said its forces advanced toward the crash site of Malaysian flight MH17. The new sanctions, which U.S. President Barack Obama and leaders of Germany, Britain, France and Italy discussed in a conference call, are aimed at increasing the pressure on Russian
President Vladimir Putin after the Malaysian airliner was shot down over territory held by pro-Moscow rebels in eastern Ukraine. “It’s precisely because we’ve not yet seen a strategic turn from Putin that we believe it’s absolutely essential to take additional measures and that’s what the Europeans and the United States intend to do this week,” said Tony Blinken, a national security adviser to Obama. The crash earlier this
month has led to calls for much tougher action against Russia from Western countries who had previously imposed sanctions but only on small numbers of individuals and firms. EU member states were expected to try to reach a final deal on Tuesday on stronger measures that would include closing the bloc’s capital markets to Russian state banks, an embargo on future arms sales and restrictions on energy technology and technology that could be used for defense. In Brussels, EU sources said diplomats had reached preliminary agreement on a new list of companies and people, including associates of Putin, to be targeted by asset freezes. Western states believe that the rebels brought down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, with the loss of 298 lives, using a missile supplied by Russia.
Reuters) - An international arbitration court ruled yesterday that Russia must pay $50 billion for expropriating the assets of Yukos, the former oil giant whose ex-owner Mikhail Khodorkovsky fell foul of the Kremlin. Finding that Russian authorities had subjected Yukos to politically-motivated attacks, the panel made an award to a group of former Yukos shareholders that equates to more than half the entire fund Moscow has set aside to cover budget holes. Russia, whose economy is on the brink of recession, said it would appeal the ruling by the Dutch-based panel, which judges private business disputes. It also said the “politically biased decision” was based on “current events” - an apparent reference to Moscow’s dispute with the West over Ukraine. Independent lawyers said it would be difficult to enforce the award to shareholders in the GML group, who had claimed $114 billion to recover money they lost when the Kremlin seized Yukos a decade ago. Tim Osborne, director of
GML, hailed the ruling. “The award is a slam dunk. It is for $50 billion, and that cannot be disputed,” he said. “It’s now a question of enforcing it.” The ruling hit back at decisions made under President Vladimir Putin’s rule during his first term as president to nationalize Yukos and jail Khodorkovsky, who had criticized him. The hardline approach was seen by Kremlin critics at the time as a stark message to oligarchs to stay out of politics. Khodorkovsky, who used to be Russia’s richest man, was arrested at gunpoint in 2003 and convicted of theft and tax evasion in 2005. Yukos, once worth $40 billion, was broken up and nationalized, with most assets handed to Rosneft (ROSN.MM), an energy giant run by an ally of Putin. After 10 years in jail, Putin pardoned Khodorkovsky in December and he now lives in Switzerland. Announcing it would appeal, the Russian Finance Ministry denounced the award. “Instead of an objective, impartial consideration of the case, the arbitration court ruled based on current developments and
as a result adopted a politically biased decision,” it said in a statement on its website. Moscow’s relations with the West are at their worst since the Cold War due to its annexation of Crimea and over a rebellion by separatists in Ukraine after a pro-Russian president was forced out of office. Russia argued that the court in the Hague had ignored tax violations by Yukos and said it was senseless and speculative to value the company so long after the events. Lawyers, however, said there were only limited grounds on which to appeal. The panel of judges, which has been reviewing the case since 2005, concluded that officials under Putin had manipulated the legal system to bankrupt Yukos. “Yukos was the object of a series of politically motivated attacks by the Russian authorities that eventually led to its destruction,” the court said. “The primary objective of the Russian Federation was not to collect taxes but rather to bankrupt Yukos and appropriate its valuable assets.”
Israel warns of long Gaza war as Palestinian fighters cross border
West agrees wider Russia sanctions as Kiev says forces near crash site
Man found dead trapped between elevator and shaft wall in NYC Reuters) - A man was found dead trapped between the outside of an elevator and the wall of the elevator shaft in a New York City apartment building yesterday morning, police said. Police found the body between the 18th and 19th floors of the building in the Bronx after responding to a 911 call an hour or so before dawn, according to a police statement. It was not immediately clear how he came to be there. The man was described as being in his early 20s but police have not identified him while they contact his relatives.
An Israeli mobile artillery unit fires towards the Gaza Strip (Reuters) - A grim-faced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned yesterday of a protracted war in Gaza, dashing any hopes of a swift end to the threeweek conflict as Palestinian fighters launched an audacious cross-border raid. The Israeli army said five of its soldiers died in two separate incidents, including four in a mortar strike. Local media also reported casualties in the infiltration, but there was no immediate confirmation of this. Inside Gaza itself, eight children and two adults were
killed by a blast in a park as an unofficial truce sought by the United Nations for the Muslim Eid al-Fitr festival collapsed. Residents blamed the explosion on an airstrike, but Israel said a misfiring militant rocket caused the carnage. “It has been a difficult, painful day,” Netanyahu said in a televised address to the nation. “We need to be prepared for a protracted campaign. We will continue to act with force and discretion until our mission is accomplished,” he said, adding that Israeli troops
would not leave Gaza until they had destroyed Hamas’s tunnel network. Some 1,060 Gazans, most of them civilians, have died in the conflagration. Israel has lost 48 soldiers and another three civilians have been killed by Palestinian shelling. As night fell over Gaza, army flares illuminated the sky and the sound of intense shelling could be heard. The military warned thousands of Palestinians to flee their homes in areas around Gaza City - usually the prelude to major army strikes.
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Tuesday July 29, 2014
Persad-Bissessar to Japan: Help T&T with arms treaty Visa free travel, an embassy in Tokyo, Japan, and an open invitation to set up tech companies in T&T were some of the gifts Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar showered on visiting Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe yesterday. In exchange, she sought Japan’s support to set up the secretariat of the Arms Trade Treaty in T&T, which seeks to set up international standards for the movement of conventional arms and ammunition across borders. Both Japan and T&T signed the treaty in 2013. These were some of the highlights after Abe touched down at Piarco International Airport for an official two-day visit. A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister said bi-lateral discussions held at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s, Port-of-Spain, shortly after Abe’s arrival to T&T. At the airport, the Japanese prime minister inspected a guard of honour before heading to the Diplomatic Centre. The Japanese Prime Minister, is accompanied by his wife, Akie, on a tour which includes meeting with Latin American and Caribbean leaders. Speaking the T&T Guardian following the bilateral talks, Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Dookeran says T&T and Japan are to consider establishing embassies in their respective countries. Dookeran said Persad-Bissessar said the request from the Japan prime minister would be considered. The foreign affairs minister
said the Japanese prime minister said the doors of his country were also open for business with this country. The minister said Abe told the meeting the matter relating to the setting up of the secretariat of the ATT should be brought “to the front burner.” Dookeran said Abe also expressed the hope that Caribbean nations can work with Japan on its climate change initiative. Abe also attended a welcome banquet hosted by Persad-Bissessar last night The statement from the PM’s office said Abe expressed his gratitude to Persad-Bissessar for the 90day visa waiver. PersadBissessar encouraged Japanese firms to take up
residency, particularly firms involved in the areas of ICTs, Clean Technologies, and Agro-processing. She advised that the Minister of Trade, Industry, Investment and Communications would pursue discussions with relevant members of the delegation during their stay. The Japanese Prime Minister agreed to consider further areas of cooperation in such ventures. Persad-Bissessar noted the positive impact on the south-western peninsula with regard to job creation by the introduction of the dimethyl ether (DME) Project, which has been established by the Massy Group, the Mitsubishi Corporation, and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical.
The reconsideration of the Westminster system must be tackled at the level of CARICOM, said vicepresident the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (Barbados) Mia Mottley. The leader of the Opposition used the opportunity of the association’s 39th regional conference at Hilton Barbados to tell the assembled Caribbean Parliamentarians the association was in a rut and needed fresh ideas. “Year after year we meet and discuss the same things . . . . The topics remain relevant but we have to ask ourselves how did we get here? How have we found ourselves in a situation where the same things are said?” she said yesterday.
Mottley said the Westminster system dictated that national politics were given prominence over regional concerns but if this ideology continued, the region would be discussing the same issues a decade from now. She added that the majority of people in the Caribbean no longer cared what was decided in Parliament and only paid attention when they were impacted. As such, she called for a consideration of a restructuring of Caribbean governments. “We have to find a better way to engage the population. We live in a world with an ease of access to information which is governed no longer by broadcasting but rather
narrowcasting,” she said, urging for a broader use of social media. Mottley said these “difficult and vexatious” issues could not be easily treated at the national level but should instead be a regional project with a CARICOM consensus. The conference takes place from July 25 to August 2. Yesterday’s official opening ceremony also featured remarks from Acting Prime Minister Richard Sealy; chairman of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (Barbados) and Speaker of the House Michael Carrington; President of the Senate, Kerryann Ifill; secretary general of the association, Dr William Shija and Deputy Speaker Mara Thompson.
Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shortly after his arrival at Piarco International Airport South Terminal
Mottley calls for regional approach to governance
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Kaieteur News
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South Africa secure draw to Senanayake to get help with correcting action reclaim top test ranking COLOMBO (Reuters) South Africa reclaimed top spot in cricket’s test rankings after grimly hanging on for a draw in the second and final test against Sri Lanka on Monday to win the series 10. It was South Africa’s first series win under new captain Hashim Amla and only their second series victory in Sri Lanka in 21 years, and sees them overtake Australia as the world’s number one team. Set 369 for victory South Africa, who started the day at 38-1, finished on 159 for eight with Vernon Philander holding firm with an unbeaten 27. That was despite a marathon bowling effort fromspinners Rangana Herath and Dilruwan Perera who sent down 89 overs between them, including 54 maidens, to claim all eight South African wickets.
Sri Lanka had to fight not only against the strong defence put up by South Africa but also the weather that interrupted play three times during the day, including in the final session with South Africa on 118-6. However the sun came out strongly and Sri Lanka grabbed the wicket of JP Duminy in the first over of the final hour when Perera trapped him lbw for three. Herath picked up his 18th five wicket bag when he had Dale Steyn caught behind by Niroshan Dickwella for six. There was no further joy for the hosts, however, as Philander and Imran Tahir played out the remaining 27 minutes. Amla had led South Africa’s resistance when he scored a fighting 25 off 159 balls before falling to Perera in the fourth over after tea when he edged an
attempted drive to Mahela Jayawardene. Herath also found the outside edge of Faf du Plessis’ bat on 10 to give Jayawardene his 200th test catch. Herath had also dismissed Quinton de Kock for 37 and AB deVilliers for 12 in the afternoon session, but the rain delays, which saw only 30 minutes play in the morning session, hindered Sri Lanka’s push to level the series. South Africa had lost the number one ranking to Australia in May. Scores: Sri Lanka 421 (Jayawardene 165, Dickwella 72, Mathews 63) and 229 for 8 dec (Sangakkara 72, Mathews 63*, Morkel 4-45) drew with South Africa 282 (Amla 139, Perera 5-69, Herath 4-71) and 159 for 8 (Herath 5-40, Perera 3-60).
Tuesday July 29, 2014 ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Use your high energy and dynamic approach to win favors from superiors. Don't prejudge. You may get drawn into a personal situation that will not be to your liking.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Electrical problems may be an issue. Secret affairs can only lead to devastating circumstances. Go with the flow and don't let the unsettled atmosphere get on your nerves.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You're in the mood to party. Children could cost you more than you can afford. Make arrangements to meet friends at your local dance club.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Use your own ideas to further your interests. Try to keep a low profile. Don't get into heated discussions.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You need to keep the peace and you will have to bend in order to do so. You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Strength will come from your ability to overtake just about any one. Look for professional guidance if it will help unite the family. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your health may suffer if you don't control your present situation. Your ability to take hold of a situation will surely bring you popularity and leadership. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) There may be opportunities to attend social functions that are linked to work. You can have a great time if you go out with the one you love.
SAGIT (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Plan your social events carefully. You could be blind to the defects of those you love. Don't be angry, but be on your guard. CAPRI. (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You can make changes that will enhance your appearance. You can learn a great deal more if you listen rather than rant and rave. Don't be too shy to promote your own interests. AQUAR. (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Social events held in your home will be successful and entertaining for those who attend. Strength will come from your ability to overtake just about any one. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Not everything you hear will be legitimate. Educational pursuits should help you develop your hobbies. Get on with your life.
ESPNcricinfo - Sri Lanka offspinner Sachithra Senanayake will get help from Daryl Foster, a human movement lecturer at the University of Western Australia, to correct his bowling action. Senanayake was banned from bowling in international cricket by the ICC earlier this month, due to an illegal action. Senanayake will leave for Australia in the second week of August, along with Sri Lanka Cricket’s head of coaching, Jerome Jayaratne, and will undergo a week-long remedial course at the University of Western Australia under Foster’s
Nicol David beats Laura Massaro to win squash gold
BBC Sport - England’s Laura Massaro was consigned to silver after losing to Malaysia’s Nicol David in the women’s singles squash final. David, 30, produced a superb performance to win 12-10 11-2 11-5. It is back-to-back Commonwealth golds for David, who did not drop a single game when she won in Delhi in 2010. New Zealand’s Joelle King claimed bronze as she beat England’s Alison Waters 11-7 11-7 11-5 in the third-place play-off. David has been world number one for 99 months and has won the World Open title a record seven times. But Massaro, 30, is the world number two and went into the Commonwealths full of confidence after winning both the World Open and British Open titles this year. Massaro, based in Preston, began quickly and looked to be bossing the opening game, but David showed why she has been the dominant figure in women’s squash for so long by fighting back to pinch it 12-10. The second game was much more one-sided as David played some brilliant shots and displayed her trademark athleticism around the court to breeze through 11-2 with little trouble. Massaro fought hard in the third - and required treatment after being accidentally caught in the face by David’s racket - but it was not enough. David also beat an opponent from England in the 2010 Commonwealth final Jenny Duncalf.
Sachithra Senanayake © PA Photos
guidance. Foster was also involved in the testing of former Sri Lanka offspinner Muthiah Muralitharan’s bowling action in 1995, 1999 and 2004. “Senanayake’s action will be scrutinised through threedimensional cameras which will give a better picture of how much of remedial action needs to be taken,” Carlton Bernadus, SLC’s head of cricket operation, said. Senanayake was reported for a suspect action during Sri Lanka’s fourth ODI against England at Lord’s on May 31. He underwent an independent analysis of his action at the Cardiff Metropolitan University towards the end of June and the tests revealed that he exceeded the 15degree flex-limit in all four types of deliveries that were assessed.
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Kaieteur News
Letter to the Sports Editor
Faizal Khan gives Matthias an apology deadline over unprovoked attack on Golden Jaguars Dear Editor, As an honest and full time contributor to Guyana’s football, I have been forced to call on the GFF President Mr. Chris Matthias to offer a public apology to the Golden Jaguars and Lady Jaguars for his unprofessional and distasteful remarks on national television. I wish to draw your attention to the NCN Sports Magazine TV show dated 16th July 2014 to which Mr. Matthias attended as a guest to give his footballing views and opinions (the episode can be viewed in 3 parts by going to YouTube and searching “NCN Sports Magazine” viewers will be most interested in Mr. Matthias’ views from approx. 8 minutes into part 2. Whilst glad to see him publically expressing his views to the Nation which we all are of course entitled, some of his comments and choice of language have left me shocked and concerned about the future for Guyana’s football to which I love and continue to invest in daily. As he is now captain of the Guyana football ship, I had hoped he would have been more focused with his choice of words on this Nationally aired programme so as to make sure what was said would be with the view of uniting the Guyanese football fraternity. By uniting our footballing people, he would enjoy the best persons available to him
in his tenure, so as to grow the Guyana football brand and in turn begin to solve the problems we have with Guyanese football today. His words on the NCN sports magazine show, disappointingly has told a very different story to my hopes. For Mr. Matthias to have blatantly attacked, discriminated and segregated some of the Golden Jaguars and Lady Jag footballers publically by not acknowledging them as Guyanese, and calling players who fought and sacrificed so much to raise the Guyana Football Flag to never before seen heights “foreigners” is totally out of order and not what I would expect from a leader of a National Sport. His comments are simply unacceptable and I will not allow such injustice to occur unchallenged or corrected. For him to have attacked the Golden Jaguars and the Lady Jags, is attacking the greatest moments in Guyanese football History to date. This occurred through leadership and a philosophy of a united Guyanese Football programme regardless of creed, colour, name or place of birth! Is the sacrifice of a man or women on a team different because of where they are born? Does he know what example he is setting for the football loving children of Guyana?
If a President in UEFA or CONMEBOL had made such ignorant statements publically about successful National players of their respective National teams, I think if we are all honest with ourselves we know what the outcome would be swiftly for that individual. This letter is not a witch hunt, but rather an opportunity for Mr. Matthias to correct his mistake. Since Mr. Matthias made these statements publically on the only National TV station here in Guyana, I would like him to issue a public apology to the Guyana National football players of 2011/12 male and female who were born all over the Globe but fought successfully for the same cause in their hearts, the betterment of Guyana’s football. I expect this apology be made no later than Monday 28th July 2014 3pm Guyana local time. If no such public apology is made directly from Mr. Matthias addressed to the Golden Jaguars and Lady Jags, I will be publically responding to his remarks to highlight the many contradictions, inaccuracies and ignorant statements made that true football and business people picked up within moments of these comical errors. Regards, Faizal Khan FIFA Licensed Football Agent
From page 33 uniforms are returned to the GABF in good condition or the GABF is compensated for the uniforms,” the statement said. Failure to return the uniform by February 1, 2015 results in an additional fine of $25,000 being imposed as reimbursement for the uniforms. All the suspensions and fines carried the caveat of “players will not be allowed to participate in any tournament, clinic, or tour held or approved by
the GABF or its members until the fine is fully paid.” Shane Webster, Ryan Gullen, Andre De Florimonte, Keron McKenzie and Gordon Klaiber are players who refused to return any of the uniforms and were fined $40,000 each. Their penalty for not returning the uniforms by February 1, 2015 carries an additional $70,000. Andrew Ifill, Dwayne Roberts and Rawle Marshall played leading roles in usurping the authority of manage-
ment and refused to return any uniforms; these players were each suspended for one year and fined $80,000. An additional fine of $70,000 will be imposed for failing to honor the stipulated deadline. Meanwhile, the GABF has instituted a six months ban, effective yesterday, on Necosia Mitchell, “for knowingly making false statements to her Coach, Ann Gordon that impacted the composition of the Guyana Women’s Team. “The GABF will continue to work diligently towards the development of basketball in Guyana and will remain vigilant on matters relating to the expansion and growth of basketball activities, discipline and compliance with the statutes of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA),” the federation said in its closing remarks on the action. The GABF is affiliated to FIBA, and is recognised as the authority for basketball administration in Guyana.
GABF suspends, fines...
Tuesday July 29, 2014
Blessing Okagbare storms to women’s C/wealth 100m gold - Jamaica’s Kemar Bailey-Cole wins men’s race BBC Sport - Nigeria’s Blessing Okagbare stormed to the women’s 100m gold in a Commonwealth Games record of 10.85 seconds. Jamaica’s Veronica Campbell-Brown took silver and compatriot Kerron Stewart bronze. England’s Asha Philip ran a personal best of 11.18 to
finish fourth, with team-mate Bianca Williams sixth in 11.31. “I’m so proud of myself, so happy to run a PB at a major event - it gives me a lot of confidence,” said Philip. Meanwhile, Jamaica’s Kemar Bailey-Cole clocked 10.00 to take gold in the men’s 100m race with fellow Jamaican Nickel Ashmeade
third. England’s Adam Gemili won silver in 10.10 seconds. But it was 20-year-old Gemili who brought the Glasgow crowd to its feet as he won his first major medal. “I can’t believe it,” he said. “I was pushing for gold but I am delighted and hopefully I can keep progressing and use this as a stepping stone.”
Manchester City and Italy racism claims prompt Fifa interest
Seko Fofana (Getty Images) BBC Sport - Fifa is investigating claims a Manchester City player was racially abused during a match in Croatia. World football’s governing body is gathering information after City alleged midfielder Seko Fofana, 20, was targeted during an Under-21 match. Meanwhile, Fifa has also asked the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to investigate comments made by the favourite to become its next president. Carlo Tavecchio reportedly made
racist remarks about African players. A Fifa spokesman told BBC Sport they were aware of the alleged incident in Croatia, which saw City coach Patrick Vieira take his side off the field. He added: “We are in contact with the relevant member associations to enquire and monitor the situation. We will be in a position to further evaluate the matter, once we gather all the relevant information.” The Croatian Football Federation has already said it
will investigate City’s claim. With regards to Tavecchio, a Fifa spokesman added: “Media reports concerning alleged racist comments by one of the presidential candidates for the Italian FA have alerted Fifa’s Task Force against racism and discrimination and its chairman Jeffrey Webb. “As such, Fifa has written a letter to the Italian FA asking it to take the appropriate steps to investigate and decide on this matter and report to Fifa.”
La Rose wins fourth annual GBTI... From page 30 There was also a ding dong battle for the other places with Israel, Crawford, Holder and Millington locked in battle. However it was the hungrier Millington who got the better of Crawford and Holder for the other two placing with Israel losing out. The sprint point prizes were shared between Mundy and Crawford with two each, while Harris, La Rose, Holder and Jaundoo snaring one apiece. In the 20 miles event for beginners, which began at No
36 Village to the finishing line, Baiesh Sadeo won from Barman Narine ahead with Roopchand Kidernauth and David Sampson occupying the other spots. Sadeo also took both spring point prizes. Top female cyclist Marica Dick of the FACC rode away with the female 12-mile event. The female event began in front of the Number 51 Police Station and ended at GBTI Corriverton Branch and saw Dick riding away from Crystal Lambert of Trojan Cycle Club with Christen Matherson third.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony Bank Manager Keiola Blackman stated that the event was part of the Bank’s policy of being a good cooperate citizen and giving back to the community from which they garner their support. Miss Blackman thanked all of the participants for their support of the event. Prizes and gifts were presented to all the participants by the bank, while Ms Blackman promised that the organization will continue the venture. (Samuel Whyte)