Kaieteur News
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Sunday June 17, 2018
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY
T
oday, Guyanese will join many others around the world to celebrate fatherhood and to honour all fathers. It is an occasion to recognize the contributions of fathers for making the lives of their children and society better. Father's Day celebrations began in Europe during the middle ages where it was and is still being celebrated in many countries on March 19 to commemorate the feast day of St. Joseph. The Catholic Church actively supported the celebration of fatherhood on St. Joseph's day. The celebration was subsequently brought by the Spanish and Portuguese to Latin America, where it is still being celebrated on March 19 every year, though many countries in Europe and the Americas, including Canada and Britain have adopted the U.S. date, which is the third Sunday of June. Different countries have a range of ways to celebrate Father's Day. In the United States, several events during the early 20th century may have inspired the idea of Father's Day. One of these was the successful celebration of Mother's Day in the first decade of the 20th century. Another was a memorial service held in 1908 for 362 men, many were fathers, who were killed in a mining accident in West Virginia in December 1907. It was a one-time commemoration. However, Sonora Smart Dodd, a woman from Spokane, Washington, was the influential figure to initiate the idea of Father's Day in 1908. One of six children, Dodd and her siblings were raised by their widowed father, after the death of their mother during child birth. This was uncommon at that time, as many fathers would have placed their children in the care of others. Sonora felt that her father deserved recognition for what he had done. She was inspired by the work of Julia Ward Howe, a social activist, and Anna Jarvis whose pioneering efforts to recognize contributions made by women led to Mother's Day celebrations. In 1966, President Lynden Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation to honour fathers and designate the third Sunday in June as Father's Day. In 1972, Father's Day was made permanent by President Richard Nixon who signed it into law. Today, it is estimated that Americans spend more than $1 billion each year on Father's Day gifts. In Guyana and elsewhere, father figures can include fathers, stepfathers, fathers-in-law, grand-fathers and great-grandfathers. The occasion is celebrated with the giving of cards or gifts or phone calls to fathers from their children. Some common Father's Day gifts include sports items, clothing, electronic gadgets, outdoor cooking supplies and tools for household maintenance. In the days before Father's Day, many schools and Sunday schools help children to prepare a handmade card or small gift for their fathers. Restaurants are normally busier than usual on Fathers' Day as some children take their fathers out for a treat. But the reality is that this day is very low-keyed when compared to Mother's Day observed last month. And that can be understood. The child sees more of its mother throughout its life time. There is even greater association with one's mother. Yet, everyone should celebrate Father's Day in honor of their fathers and to thank them for all their support. Fathers are crucial to the early development of children, especially boys, but many children grew up without them being in their lives. This may be responsible for the incidence of crime in the society. Single parenting is the reality for many children in Guyana because more often than not, fathers are absent. It is important for fathers to assume their role in the family unit. Happy Father's Day
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
We want elections that are free and fair, and free from fear Dear Editor This issue of race that some seek to trivialise while others use as a wedge in this society must make us all intolerant of such behaviour because what it sets out to do is to keep us divided and underdeveloped as a few rape and reap of this nation's bounties. The issue of race and the discrimination against any individual or group because of identity is not something treated lightly by me. It is not about who makes the allegation, but who allegedly is inflicting it and the necessity of putting structures in place to avoid and correct claims of being discriminated against. Statements made by David Williams (Mr. Lewis has failed to meet the standards. '..KN June 14, 2018) in response to my call for Robeson Benn, PPP/C Commissioner of GECOM, to provide evidence of his charge of racial discrimination in employment practices at
GECOM, seeks to trivialise a serious issue that continues t o h a u n t t h e s o c i e t y. Diverting attention to the extant issue on claims that my allegation of the PPP/C government engaging in racial discrimination was not buttressed by evidence ( a lie which can be refuted in accessing my writings through a Google search), the numbers and identity of those killed extra-judicially during the PPP/C stewardship questionable, and the statistics revealed by GECOM Chair as to racial identity of those in its employed found wanting, with the message that Benn is not required to present his evidence, represents a hazard to intelligently confronting and dealing with our racial problems. Bring the evidence from all sides, including that provided by Chairman Justice James Patterson. PPP/C Commissioner Benn must provide his evidence for it is he who has accused
and the evidence of his allegation is pivotal to addressing the seriousness of the charge. On the allegation of the number of persons murdered during the PPP/C stewardship that information is public knowledge and was compiled in a dossier and taken before the CARICOM H eads of G overnment Meeting in Antigua. I was at that session when the Opposition made the presentation. It is not too late to address this matter, which can be taken up by this administration. It has been my consistent position that Chapter 144 of the Laws of Guyana, referred to as the Coroner's Act, is yet to be activated in dealing with those deaths that occurred under unnatural circumstances. While the Coroner's Act will activate the process to inquire into the cause of death, outside of that where it is felt those persons were targeted because of their racial
identity or the charge is without merit, our laws allow for a commission of inquiry into such issues. When this is held all sides can have an opportunity to make their case and closure brought to this issue. The issue before us today is GECOM, where allegation is being made of racial employment practices. If there is seriousness in addressing it then it can only be addressed, having made an allegation, by providing the evidence to move the process towards investigation, which will lead to findings and recommendations. This is what Benn, who holds senior public office and is being paid by the citizens, is being called on to ensure. He has m a d e t h e c h a rg e a n d foremost has the responsibility to provide the evidence in order to influence the process of investigation. A charge as serious as this must not only (Continued on page 7)
Sunday June 17, 2018
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Kaieteur M@ilbox
Kaieteur M@ilbox
In 2018 the PPP is attempting the same ruse: play the racial card
Bharrat Jagdeo attempt to create an uncertain atmosphere must be questioned
DEAR EDITOR, In a previous letter I indicated that in 2013, on the eve of GECOM‘s consideration of Mr. Boodoo‘s application for a renewal of contract, the PPP started a campaign accusing the “PNC” commissioners of ridding GECOM of IndoGuyanese. On that occasion, I responded with the evidence that the IndoGuyanese, whose contracts had not been renewed, were victims of Boodoo‘s initiatives. Boodoo was the one who initiated, and insisted on, the non-renewal of their contracts. What the PPP was doing then was creating the atmosphere for the reappointment of Boodoo, who sought in 2011 to allocate an AFC seat to the PPP as he had done in 2006. In 2006 he went “scot free” and in 2011 they were endeavouring to let him off the hook once again. The relevance of restating this is that in 2018 the PPP is attempting the same ruse: play the racial card and have Vishnu Persaud appointed as Deputy Chief Elections Off i c e r. T h a t r u s e h a v i n g failed, once again, the Leader of the Opposition is spewing his racial venom at the so-called “PNC commissioners”. As a commissioner with institutional memory, who has exposed the PPP`s campaign for what it is worth, I was at the centre of Jagdeo`s attack, at his Thursday`s press conference.
He leveled a number of accusations, which I will respond to here: 1. He accused the socalled “PNC commissioners” of scoring Indo-Guyanese low and Afro-Guyanese high, to wit 100%, in an attempt to deny Indo-Guyanese employment at GECOM. Let it be known that I never scored anyone 100% or 0 percent and that in the interviewing process, the first person to have awarded someone 100% was Commissioner Shadick, Jagdeo`s nominee. Jagdeo is therefore in one swipe lying and indulging in double standards. 2. He accused me of ulterior motives in regard to my disclosures on Vishnu Persaud. On that matter I stand by my word and hereby restate emphatically that Vishnu Persaud‘s candidacy was opposed by me on the grounds that the other candidate is superior, in addition to the fact that Vishnu was appointed as the PRO of GECOM when he was not qualified for the job. He was elevated to DCEO on the pretense of being the holder of a first degree, here again, he was appointed in a position for which he was not qualified. He himself, in the presence of the entire interviewing panel, admitted that he was not the holder of a first degree or its equivalent. That alone should have made him ineligible. 3. He contended that both candidates are holders of a
Master‘s degree, however Vishnu‘s Master‘s degree cannot be compared with that of his competitor. He has a ‘D’ average while his competitor has a ‘B+’ average. Jadgeo further accused GECOM of procedural breach by not appointing the person with the highest score. Apart from the highest score being contrived and dubious, the procedure has always provided for the Commission to make the final determination, especially in the instance where there is a hung result (a tie) at the level of the interviewing panel. Only a few weeks ago, for the position of legal officer, there was a hung decision of the interviewing panel, which resulted in the matter being determined by the full Commission. In that instance, the Chairman‘s decisive vote coincided with the votes of the PPP commissioners and the candidate with the highest score was not offered the job. It should be noted that the affected candidate was an African-Guyanese. There is therefore no basis on which to conclude that the Chairman has been biased. What we are faced with is the ruse of Jadgeo to have his way even if it means using ethnicity and lies as his trump cards. I challenge Jagdeo to a face-off on the facts. Yours truly, Vincent Alexander GECOM Commissioner
DEAR EDITOR, There was a time in this country, when uncertainty was the word of the day. I hope those times have not since been forgotten, the uncertainty of whether you will live, die or be robbed. Those times were well known by Bharrat Jagdeo. He presided over this nation during an unprecedented crime wave in Guyana; one that drove fear in the hearts of Guyanese, of all walks of life, for a number of years; one that still haunts the people of this country, with memories of the massacres. What and who was responsible for this plague that was let loose on the people of this country has still not been answered, by two sides of a coin, who both claim to know the genesis of the turmoil that Guyanese went through in the beginning of the 2000’s. This time was not a peaceful one. “No peace” - if you were to use those words to me, with the intentions of me getting a message, where in history in my memory would you want me to go? Which brings me to what I really want to ask, what did Bharrat Jagdeo mean when he said, “There will be consequences, if they think that they can rig the elections and have the kind of peace that we have now, they are wrong, very very wrong. I hope they are not thinking that in their calculation, I am making it clear about that, and that’s not coded language. It’s not coded, be-
cause then the nature of the struggle, will be different, we will be struggling against an illegal, illegitimate Government. That is not in power through the ballot, and it would be a different form of struggle, totally different.” This said by a man who should know exactly what those words meant. Should we think that there was another meaning to words that were clearly said, and reasserted by saying,” I am making it clear about that and that’s not coded language”, or is it a case that the literacy level of Guyanese is so low, only Government officials can decode this message? And if so, have they got the message? Will there be the rising of a new ‘freedom fight’ in Guyana? Who will be the Rebel Leader? Who will risk their lives to create an atmosphere of instability in this country? What does a country devoid of peace, look like, can you remember? Yes, I think Jagdeo remembers… The economic instability at present is evident, and
might be partially as a result of monkey wrenches been thrown in the works, but more likely as a result of the Government’s lack of vision. What is clear is this; it’s hard times for all, but we live with less fear, except for those created for us from time to time, by the existing propaganda mechanisms. This attempt by Bharrat Jagdeo to create an uncertain atmosphere in this struggling country, must be questioned, lest the multitude misunderstand and get embroiled in unrest they themselves care not for. There is a struggle now; there will be a struggle always, it’s what Democracy is hinged upon, the ability to speak freely, and guide your elected leaders in the right direction. Go now, Mr Bharrat Jagdeo, and struggle with the sugar workers in Berbice. Now is the time; not when the time suits you in 2020; not when you want to whip up a make-believe struggle to support you in your quest for a third term. Yours Faithfully, Guyanese Critic
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Kaieteur M@ilbox
Kaieteur M@ilbox
THIS MONUMENT BELONGS AT HIGHBURY DEAR EDITOR, On May 5th 1838, some 180 years ago the first batch of 128 East Indian Immigrants landed at plantation Highbury, on the East Bank of the Berbice River. It is important that as Guyanese we do not allow the historical significance of plantation Highbury to diminish. Over the last thirty years, on May 5th, Guyanese gather at this prestigious site, to reflect and show gratitude on the sacrifices of our ancestors. Through the generosity of the Indian government, Guyana has received a monument to commemorate this historical occasion. The controversial Palmyra site selected for such a monument still baffles the mind of the majority of Guyanese. While Guyanese are extremely grateful for this monument, the reasons given for the selection of this site over the Highbury site has indeed display the ignorance and subsequently lack of emotions of those who were instrumental in deciding for the Guyanese population that Palmyra is the best place for such a monument. The reasons given thus far 1. Palmyra is at a junction where the Berbice bridge, the way to the Corentyne and the town of New Amsterdam. More people will get to view it. 2. Security at Palmyra would be superior to Highbury. The area is more populated, Highbury is too isolated. 3. There is not enough
space at Highbury to accommodate such a monument. There is enough land space at Palmyra. 4. The roads to the site are not that good and it’s too far away from the urban areas. Again, the question is where is the historical justification for the selection of this Palmyra site? Please permit me to give reasons why Highbury is the best place for such a monument. 1. Our forefathers landed at Highbury not at Palmyra. Highbury was declared a heritage site due to its immense historical significance. The imprints of the feet of our fore fathers will forever be in the hearts of us- their descendants. Those with genuine appreciation for the sacrifices of our forefathers will always feel that emotional attachment to a place like Highbury. This site was always graced by the presence of distinguished individuals from 1988 to date. Presidents Desmond Hoyte, Samuel Hinds, Bharrat Jagdeo, Donald Ramoutar, and in the last two years, his Excellency David Granger, Indian High Commission e r p a s t a n d present, Ministers of government, members of the diplomatic corps and thousands of Guyanese as well as foreigners, the likes of Yesu Persaud, Ravi Dev, former Prime Minister of Trinidad – Basdeo Panday, have all paid homage to this place of pilgrimage. On the historical 100th anniversary of Indian arrival, the then
Deputy Prime Minister of India together with the Prime Minister of Guyana join the gathering under the sacred bel and peepar trees, which are still present there today, to commemorate this occasion 2. Both domestic and regional tourism can be boosted by the enhancement of Highbury heritage site. With persons making that journey to Highbury not only will this give them that experience but also will boost the economic growth of the area. Local shops, fruit juice vendors, subsistence farmers as well as boarding houses can all benefit from the sale of their products and services. Along the way to the site one can also see a Hindu architectural wonder in the Gay Park Sri Krishna Mandir, the Bermine Site where bauxite was once mined, nature’s own, a variety of plant and animal life seems untouched and the breath of clean, fresh air, wide savannah lands that stretch towards the horizons. The poor condition of the roads to the area is not a plausible one anymore as the stretch from Everton to Highbury is already paved and work is currently done to have a fully paved road, along with street lights, connecting the Town of New Amsterdam to Everton. A monument at Palmyra after time will lose the interest of the public as it will be just a pass by as it is with other monuments in the country that are sited based on the thought that “most people will see it here”. Once the appreciation is there for our rich history then the question of long journey to Highbury will not even arise.
3. Where ever the monument is placed it must be secured. So, the cost of security will not differ based on location. As with every national heritage site the government provides assistance in preserving our heritage and Highbury has receive much needed support from the government in recent years and is confident that such will continue in the future. As further development works is earmark for the site security measures will be in place. The Berbice Indian Commemoration committee is tasked with the responsibility for the Highbury Heritage site and will ensure that the assets are secured. 4. The Highbury site can accommodate over three thousand under the roof itself. Sanitary facilities, potable running water as well as a cooking area is currently at the disposal of the public. This place is used for farmers meetings, seminars, medical outreaches, school tours among many others. The placement of the monument will further enhance the outlook of this site and serve as a stimulus for further development. Editor, it is clear that the justifications given for the placement of this commemorative monument at Highbury far outweighs that of the Palmyra site. Together with likes of Dr. Yesu Persaud, Mr. Nourang Persaud and other Guyanese particularly Berbicians , I am pleading with the relevant authorities to correct this unfortunate situation. Yours Faithfully Ramesh Maraj (PRO- Berbice Indian Cultural Committee)
A most glaring example of stupidity and ignorance DEAR EDITOR, Please allow me the space and time to address a most glaring example of stupidity and ignorance on the part of the Security Guard and Police Officer, both of whom could have caused that snake bite victim her life. The reason the guard gave for “Not wanting to wake the nurse” should result in that idiot being FIRED. Apparently the standing order at that nursing facility is, if you’re going to be sick or near death you had better do so in the day. It begs the question, is this common practice at this location? If so, it should be addressed by the Minister of Health or some high level official from that ministry. The asinine police officer is another question. Rather than escort the victims vehicle to the hospital post haste this full of herself Who are these people and where are they from? Guyana is indeed a” Failed State” with this kind of thinking and mentality. Neither of those individuals displayed enough empathy or God forbid common sense to think. I pray this is not a reflection of the wider society if it is, Our Guyana is in deep trouble. I wish the snake bite victim a full recovery and good health. Respectfully Claudeston Massiah.
Correction to Vishnu Persaud’s letter DEAR EDITOR, Please publish the following correction to the letter in my name which you so kindly published in your publication of Saturday, June 16, 2018. In my letter, I have inadvertently said that the incumbent Human Resources Manager HRM) became employed by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in early 2017. This is incorrect. In fact, the incumbent HRM joined GECOM in early 2016. It is important that this correction be published to convey that I “held the fort” in managing the GECOM Human Resources Division for approximately six months only i.e from mid-2015 to early 2016 and not 2017 as conveyed in my letter. Vishnu Persaud Former Deputy Chief Election Officer GECOM
NCN’s horrid image quality for FIFA’s World Cup DEAR EDITOR This letter is addressed to NCN. As the official broadcaster for FIFA’s World Cup, why are you providing the Guyanese public with horrid image quality? Normally, your quality is reminiscent of the 1970s with the pixels looking extremely distorted but why are you still showcasing this quality for this celebratory event? The World Cup is beloved by many people all around the world. Why must the Guyanese public have to endure this travesty of your showing? Furthermore, I do hope that you manage to achieve your return on investment considering the fact that you would have caused many Guyanese to use streaming services instead of watching it on their televisions. However, not all Guyanese have this as an option. I do like your billboards though. I just wish the quality would be reflected on the TV. Yours Respectfully, Juliana Lopes.
Sunday June 17, 2018
Kaieteur M@ilbox COMMENTS ON THE GUYANA PRIZE FOR LITERATURE DEAR EDITOR, Regarding the KN article of June 11, 2018, “Future of Guyana Prize in Jeopardy?” I would like to offer some comments. My qualification for doing so is, I have dabbled in the publishing business for some time, recently producing Eusi Kwayana’s “A New Look at Jonestown.” It is a 268-page 6"x9" perfect-bound paperback that has the same look, feel, and form as any book from the big guns in the industry. The first thing I would like to say is that publishing a book is like manufacturing a car. I exaggerate only to emphasize the myriad steps that have to be gone through. And when the product rolls off the press, the job is not done but is only beginning. There is the larger, neverending, lifelong, ever-expanding process of advertising, marketing, promoting and pushing the book. If you are self-publishing, the next thing you know is that you are not writing and publishing anymore but just operating a business, one that is in the red every step of the way.Because Guyana has no established book publisher and most aspirants have to self-publish (a very dirty word in the industry today), the prize committee has been accepting raw manuscripts as submissions. In the circumstances, the prize should primarily be to print and publish winning manuscripts and assist with distributing the product. Those entries that are already printed could be given, as in the past, a substantial monetary award. Awardees who submitted manuscripts may also be given a monetary award but of lesser value. The bulk of their award will be the free services the committee provides as detailed below. There is no better way “to
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encourage young writers to write” than to act as a conduit for getting their work into print. Among the things the prize committee could do with the winning “typewritten” manuscripts are the following. 1) Recheck the submission for errors and omissions, making the necessary corrections. 2) Select the size of the book from the standard choices available. 3) Design the cover for the book. Things such as color, black and white, and greyscale would be considered here as well as bleed and spine width. 4) Design the interior of the book. Things such as font family and size, inside and outside margins would be considered here. 5) Obtain the ISBN and barcode. 6) Select an appropriate printer. 7) Professionally format the material for printing and binding according to established standards and in consultation with the selected printer. 8) Set the number of copies to be given to the author (to sell, give away, etc.). 9) Determine the total number of copies to be printed. 10) In consultation with the author, set the selling price of the book. 11) Announce in the media the availability of the book for purchase. 12) Distribute the books free to libraries and schools in Guyana. 13) Register the copyright. 14) Host launching and book signing ceremonies in selected areas of the country for the benefit of the winning authors. Is the manufacturing-acar analogy making sense now?Freeing the writer from these mundane responsibilities should be considered a more valuable prize than a dollar award.
Plus, it would help him/ her get away from the selfpublishing stigma that comes from doing it yourself. Wouldbe writers would now be able to fully concentrate on their main avocation. And, lest we forget, in lieu of the prize money, the committee will pay for all the services above, the writer would not have to worry about that. Maybe such an endeavor could also be the initiation of a book publishing industry in Guyana. Taking this one step further, the prize committee might also want to create an e-book in the name of and for the benefit of the winner. With hardcopy printing done, the same source material will be readily available to do so. The last point I want to make is that participation should be limited to local residents. You dilute the matter when you open it up to overseas Guyanese, who are said to outnumber the local population. Plus, overseas Guyanese are already advantaged in that they have more facilities to get published than the local folks have. P. D. Sharma Los Angeles, CA
Kaieteur M@ilbox We want elections that are ... From page 4 be that of making statements but must be buttressed by evidence and he must be held accountable to such basic standards. This issue is not about PPP/C or APNU+AFC but that of ensuring every racial group in this society is treated with deserving respect, including inclusion and protection from being made a scapegoat to advance any partisan political agenda, on any side. While Benn is on record making the charge of racial preference, Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo too is on record saying this issue is not that of race but competence. So what really is the employment practice at GECOM or the preferred employment practice, and this the society must address for GECOM is a state institution and accountable to the people. My position on employment practices to bring about parity in the society is that of Equal Employment Opportunity and such requires a studied approach that would see legislation being put in place with supporting mechanism and structures. Blaring headlines and screaming allegation without seeking measures for
redress will exacerbate, not help the situation. It is being reiterated, the failure of the PPP/C administration to even make effort to bring legislation to correct what it today charges and too, was accused of while in office remain hindrances to improving race relations and assuring opportunity for all. The dog whistle that Africans cannot be trusted with ensuring free and fair elections is counterproductive. For as this sound is being echoed and emblazoned around the society, it is prudent to remind all the 1997 Elections were vitiated by the High Court; in the 2006 Elections the AFC Region 10 seat was confiscated by the PPP/C and occupied by Sam Hinds in the National Assembly; and in 2011 were it not for GECOM PNC/R Commissioner VincentAlexander, the nation could have seen a repeat of 2006. In all three of these elections the leadership of GECOM, including the chairman, was primarily East Indi-
ans. We do not only want free and fair election, we also want elections free from fear, and this starts from the process of registration, the names appearing on the List, being allowed to cast a vote, the counting of the ballot to the declaration of the results, which must accurately represent the expressed will of the people. All of our elections have given rise to concern that all of these factors were not ensured, and where the facts exist they must be confronted and corrected. In the last two elections (2011 and 2015) the observing international communitynotably the OAS and Carter Centre- was bold enough to make known its concerns that elections were conducted not free from allegation, fear and intimidation. Yours Faithfully, Lincoln Lewis.
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Govt. fails to renew contract for Presidential Advisor on Petroleum The Government of Guyana has failed to immediately renew a contract with Dr. Jan Mangal. Dr. Mangal served as one of the President’s most crucial advisors on petroleum matters. His contract came to an end in March. Yesterday, Dr. Mangal said, “I hope to be re-engaged after the summer (August) and I do not have any indication to the contrary from the President.” Just one month shy of his contract coming to an end, Dr. Mangal was very vocal on Guyana’s lack of capacity to deal with the oil revenues to come. In fact, the Oil and Gas Consultant stated that there are basic things that needed to be done, including the passage of the Petroleum Commission Bill, establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund and the creation of an effective regulatory framework. He had said, “We need technical people in the Ministry of Natural Resources, in GRA (Guyana Revenue Authority), Ministry of Finance and they are not appearing. It’s been over two years now. Go look at the Ministry of
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Former Presidential Advisor on Petroleum, Dr. Jan Mangal Natural Resources and see how many foreign technical experts are in there. It is zero.” Dr. Mangal’s public statements have so far suggested that the two percent royalty in the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) between ExxonMobil and the Government is not the international norm.“I am one person…Guyana can’t rely on one person. Guyana needs to go and pull in a bunch of experts into Government. My intention when I started was to build a team up, but unfortunately resources were not
available,” Dr. Mangal noted. In the absence of experts, Dr. Mangal has warned that politicians should not be involved in the management of the oil and gas sector. He has stated that politicians think from elections to elections. He stated that if Guyana takes the path of civil servants managing the industry then changes in Government will not impact the oil industry. ”If politicians are managing your industry, then come election time the industry is going to come to a standstill and six months after the elections, there won’t be anyone working in the industry,” Mangal had stated. Dr. Mangal is a Guyanese who has spent 18 years in the industry, 13 of them with Chevron working on major oil and gas projects in the United States, West Africa and Asia. Given his experience with these companies, he noted that contracts should always be reviewed as new information becomes available. Dr. Jan Mangal has often said that the ExxonMobilGuyana PSA can be renegotiated.
Hauraruni residents appeal for road after fire
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esidents of H a u r a r u n i c o m m u n i t y, located along the Soesdyke/ Linden highway, are appealing for help with its access road after a huge blaze damaged the multi-complex building. A fire tender was unable to enter the area Tuesday morning because of the condition of the road. The fire destroyed the complex leaving $12M in losses. In addition to the building, the items lost included over 1,000 mattresses, 300 pieces of plyboards, four beds and a stage. Almost half of the roof was gone too. The building is used for church meetings, Leaders Retreat, Youth Camps and a bible school. The community in a letter published in Kaieteur News on Friday said that men and women, boys and girls rushed from their homes with buckets in an effort to quell the flames. They were able to save about 60 percent of the building. The residents claimed that what was even more heartrending was after the Guyana Fire Service – located
The damage to the multi-complex building in Hauraruni.
approximately 20 minutes away from the location – came, the tender was unable to reach the location because of the condition of the access road leading from the Linden Highway. ”Questions were raised
among community members as it relates to why they are being denied by the Government of Guyana to grant their request which was made via letters and meetings with government officials (Continued on page 10 )
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Jagdeo predicts Guyana would become worse off than Venezuela
“They (APNU+AFC officials) are just busy waiting on the dribble—the oil money. It is all they think of. They just have this obsession. But I am saying if we do not address these critical issues (regarding the oil sector), as well as the rest of the economy, Guyana will be worse off in the next decade.” So said former President Bharrat Jagdeo at his most recent press conference. Jagdeo responding to a question about Government’s preparedness to protect its people in the event of an oil spill, said that Government’s ill preparedness does not stop at environmental issues. He said it is across the board. “This is not unique to what is happening in the sec-
tor. All the things that our government was supposed to do to protect us as a people, they have failed.” Jagdeo said that after finding out that Guyana has oil, the government was supposed to negotiate a better contract. “They were supposed to get a contract that is better than the one we signed when we were trying to get ExxonMobil to explore. But ExxonMobil came out ahead in those negotiations, and that is putting it mildly.” Jagdeo said that Government was supposed to have already set up a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) but, “they failed that too, just like they failed with the Petroleum Commission. They also failed on local content and it’s the same pattern. They are failing
to address issues relating to the environment and how to tackle a potential oil spill.” Jagdeo said that everything is just haphazard and not in the interest of the Guyanese people. The politician said that with these critical and unaddressed issues hanging over Guyana’s head, the nation can end up finding itself worse off with oil. He said, “Read the experiences of many of these countries. Go to the assessment in Chad and Nigeria and Venezuela. Look at where Venezuela is today; you will recognize we will be worst off.” This newspaper had reported that after 100 years of oil, the people of 20 African nations are no better off today.
DEM BOYS SEH
Corbin mess up Vishnu Father’s Day Today is Father’s Day, and everybody know it come wid comforting words fuh all dem fathers. Dem don’t get gifts like mothers. But if there is something better than giving others de best of what we have, it is giving others the best of who we are. When Jagdeo was running Guyana he never give de people de best. He only thing bout heself, ee friends and ee family. Dem boys talk bout this over and over. Dem ain’t want to repeat demself today.A change came about in de seat of govt. and everybody expect de opposite of wha Jagdeo use to do. But day by day de things Soulja Bai and ee people doing dem boys want to know if Jagdeo still running de country.
Under Jagdeo, Luncheon had to go to court to tell de nation how de PPP couldn’t find one black man to be High Commissioner or Ambassador.Today that same race thing continue. Dem boys did expect to never hear or see this thing continuing. Dem boys thought that wid de change dem woulda see de best people getting appointed despite race. This thing happen two times. This last time is Vishnu who suffer. He get bypassed and there is no other excuse or reason dem can give to show that de appoint was fair and race didn’t play a part. Dem boys don’t believe that Patterson is a scamp. Dem boys know he old and he does tek a nap every
couple minutes. Dem boys want believe that when de time come fuh vote Patterson was sleeping and Corbin raise ee hand fun vote gainst Vishnu. Everything is in de open and Vishnu mek it clear fuh Soulja Bai to see wha ee people doing under ee nose. Everybody who vote fuh him, including dem boys, expect him to be different from Jagdeo. Dem boys want to remind him on this Father’s Day that good persons are like street lights. They don’t shorten de distance but they lighten de path and make de walk worthwhile. Talk half and to all de sweet, loving, humble, caring and sharing fathers, do have a wonderful Day.
This can be seen from a simple examination of the latest Human Development Index (HDI) report. (http:// hdr.undp.org/en/composite/ HDI) The HDI was created to emphasise the point that people and their ability to live a better life should be the ultimate criteria for assessing the development of a country.The African countries which have been flagged in the HDI report as places of low human development include Angola, Chad, Cameroon, Madagascar, Nigeria, Tanzania, Papua New Guinea, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and the Republic of Congo. Those African nations
that managed to scrape medium development for its people after finding oil include Equatorial Guinea, Egypt, South Africa, Zambia, Kenya, Ghana, Sâo Tomé and Morocco. On this basis, one can surely understand the notion that oil alone does not guarantee the “good life”. This very point was recently hammered home by head of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), Professor Suresh Narine. At the Guyana International Petroleum Business Summit (GIPEX) which was held from February 7 to February 9, Professor Narine asked, “Will Guyana simply shoot to the top of the HDI by simply becoming produc-
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Former President Bharrat Jagdeo ers of oil? And for how long shall we maintain this good life, if we are able to attain it? Or will it only be over the lifetime of our reserves? “ With ExxonMobil’s operations moving full steam ahead, Guyana like many African nations, is poised to become an oil producer by 2020.
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Sunday June 17, 2018
Kaieteur News
Aurora Gold Mine Twin Otter exposes loophole in local aviation regulations
I
nvestigations by Kaieteur News into the Canadianregistered Twin Otter operating for Aurora Gold Mine have revealed a loophole that could hinder access to employment for Guyanese pilots within the aviation sector. Under existing regulations, there is nothing compelling foreign commercial operators based in Guyana and conducting business in Guyana to register their aircraft to carry Guyana’s registration under the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). And under international aviation laws and for insurance purposes, a pilot certification must match the aircraft registration. In the case of Aurora Gold Mine, this means that Guyanese pilots will have to be certified by Canadian authorities before they can operate the company’s Twin Otter. According to aviation officials, if the plane was registered in Guyana, it would open the door for the employment of local pilots who are certified to fly the Twin Otter. Director General of the GCAA, Egbert Field, said that the agency is currently preparing amendments to the regulations which will
Director General of the GCAA, Egbert Field address the loophole for foreign commercial operators setting up in Guyana. He explained that the updated regulations will not affect international and regional operators like LIAT and Caribbean Airlines. “What we have in mind is, you will be able to derive local content from what we will place in the regulation. This is strictly for companies coming into Guyana for commercial operations within Guyana. The inclusion in our
regulation will result in local content being utilized,” Field explained. According to Field, the proposed regulations will include a requirement where the commercial operator coming in to provide the service will have to acquire an operator’s certificate from Guyana. “By acquiring a local operator’s certificate it means that an aircraft coming in for commercial operation, it will have to be registered locally so that individuals with local licenses can operate it.
The Canadian-registered Twin Otter being used by Aurora Gold Mine We have our local operators, but any one coming is what our legislation will affect,” Field outlined. For Aurora Gold Mine, Canadian Flyers is the registered owner of the Twin Otter which is being used to shuttle goods and employees in and out of Region Seven
daily. Field had previously told Kaieteur News that the aircraft was granted permission to provide a private service for Aurora. Private air operations are distinct from commercial air operations and Field had stated that the regulatory body did not consider the
Twin Otter plan as a commercial plane. Local aviation officials have indicated that Canadian Flyers as the registered owner could be seen as operating commercially for Aura Gold. “It is a very thin line being walked,” one official shared.
Hauraruni residents appeal for ... From page 8 after being established as a community over 30 years.” According to the residents, for too long they have been witnessing other communities less populated having proper access roads. “To the Minister and Ministry of Public Infrastructure, we would like
to inform you that we have not been a violent people who protest. Thus, we are calling on you this day to open your ears and listen to us, and open your eyes and look at us, for the time has come when we should be denied no more, and our plea should be granted for a proper access
road as citizens of this country.” The residents said that given the fact that the community comprises an allage school, a girls’ home, a health centre and a Missionary Training Centre, it clearly shows that it is a community preparing its people for a better Guyana.
Sunday June 17, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Explosion site aftermath.
Kaieteur News
Sunday June 17, 2018
Danger lessens following Diamond eruption
Clean-up on the way at Diamond explosion site.
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC), a number of other agencies and public spirited citizens have started a cleanup at the natural gas explosion site at Diamond on the East Bank Demerara. The explosion resulted from the drilling of a well by Soownauth Gorakh last Thursday, at his premises at 1200 Fourth Street, Section A Block X, Diamond, East Bank Demerara. The Diamond Grove Neighbourhood Democratic Council, in a statement said, “As clean up continues aggressively by CDC, Diamond Grove NDC and neighbours of the recent incident in Diamond, Chairman of the
NDC Mr Bharrat Narine has announced that an investigation by the NDC has commenced.” Narine has praised the ‘true community’ spirit of the people who are helping Soownauth ‘Water Man’ Gorakh and his wife Tulabhaduree, to rebuild their lives after the unfortunate incident. The NDC Chairman said that contrary to several reports the businessman and his three children aged 18, 15 and nine years old have not moved out of the community. They sought refuge from kind hearted neighbours Continued on page 72
Sunday June 17, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Former SWAT head challenges special leave decision by Felix Former head of the police Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, Motie Dookie, is challenging a decision to send him on special leave in the public’s interest earlier this year. The Deputy Superintendent of Police reportedly landed himself in trouble late last year after he was found in a minibus in Berbice with several cases of Johnny Walker whisky believed to have been smuggled. He was first removed from the position, then transferred to a ward of the city, in the police ‘A’ Division. However, Minister Winston Felix, who was performing the duties of Minister of Public Security, in the absence of the substantive minister, Khemraj Ramjattan who was overseas, sent Dookie on “Special Leave in the Public Interest”. Through his lawyer, Anil Nandlall, the senior police officer now wants the decision of the special leave to be reversed. He argued that the Police Commissioner (Ag), David Ramnarine, had no authority. Rather, the authority lay in the Police Service Commission. In the court application, Dookie is asking for a Writ of Certiorari quashing the
decision of Ramnarine, made on May 21, 2018, to send him on special leave. Dookie is insisting that the decision is unconstitutional, capricious, whimsical, irrational, based upon irrelevant and extraneous considerations, contrary to the rules of natural justice, unreasonable unlawful, null, void and of no effect. Dookie, in his sworn affidavit, said that prior to receiving the letter dated 21st day of May 2018 to send him on special leave, he was not offered an opportunity to provide any explanation, or reason or show cause why he should not be sent on leave. It was stated that the Constitution vests in the Police Service Commission, in accordance with Article 212(1) of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, the sole and exclusive jurisdiction and authority to exercise disciplinary control in respect of a police officer of his rank, in the Police Service Commission. Article 212(1) provides: “Subject to article 211 (1), the power to make appointments to any offices in the Police Force of or above the rank of Inspector, the power to exercise disciplinary control
Police Commissioner (ag), David Ramnarine
Minister Winston Felix
ON LEAVE: Motie Dookie
over persons holding or acting in such offices and the power to remove such persons from office shall vest in the Police Service Commission.” Dookie said that his legal advice indicates, therefore, that the decision was contrary to the rules of natural justice, unreasonable unlawful and null and void. Dookie was the subject of police investigations after he was nabbed on December 30, last year, with 30 cases of Johnny Walker whisky. Minister Felix, in performing the duties of the Public Security Minister, had reportedly instructed the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Danielle McCalmon,
to take the necessary actions. Felix later told this newspaper that having Dookie around while the issue was hanging over his head and him being in a position of authority, sends the wrong message to the junior ranks whom he (Dookie) had to preside over. Felix said that at the time of the arrest, Dookie not only left the jurisdiction but was caught with contraband. In effect, the transfer was seen by junior ranks as a promotion. Minister Felix said that it appeared to the junior ranks that Dookie was being rewarded for his indiscretion. This is contrary to the office and “inimical” to the office, the Minister said.
According to Felix, he saw people making a comparison to another case, involving another head of SWAT, Deputy Superintendent Lonsdale Withrite. Withrite was robbed at gun point of his service pistol and vehicle- the pistol contained 16 live rounds— while he was on a tryst on the seawalls. The officer was at the Industry seawall with a female when he was robbed last year. It is difficult how the two cases could be compared, Felix said. Minister Felix said that the Police Commissioner (ag) Ramnarine, should have dealt
with the matter instead of it reaching this stage and landing on the lap of Minister Ramjattan. Dookie, while on special leave, will continue to receive his full pay. The problem is that there is no Commission. The life of the last one expired and new one is yet to be named. The absence of the Commission has held in limbo the promotions in the police force. Ramjattan had declined to answer questions whether the Police Service Commission should have been the body to make the decision. He also declined to comment on complaints by ranks that the decision is suspicious in light of the fact that there are other officers who are facing more egregious offences but who were not targeted. Tightlipped, he only said, “I can only tell you I saw the correspondence that he was sent on leave.”
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Sunday June 17, 2018
Kaieteur News
Couple guilty of fatally stabbing relative at Skull City Their appearance throughout their trial was perhaps the only time Vishwantie Ragnauth and her reputed husband, Nyron Thakurdyal, spent time together, following the demise of her uncle who was stabbed to death on Boxing Day 2014. In fact, the couple was yesterday convicted of the killing almost four years, after police brought charges against them for the murder of Sunil Ramsundar, Ragnauth’s uncle. Ragnauth also known as ‘Shelly’, and Thakurdyal, called ‘One Eye’, were found guilty by a 12-member mixed jury who returned unanimous
guilty verdicts with respect to the two who were charged separately for the murder. The killing occurred at Skull City, Patentia, West Bank Demerara. However, although they were convicted by the jury, Justice Sandil Kissoon did not proceed to sentence them to a term of imprisonment. This was after their Attorneyat-Law Nigel Hughes requested that probations reports in favour of his clients be tendered in court. The lawyer cited his client’s unblemished criminal record as a reason for requesting the report. The request was granted by trial judge Sandil Kissoon
who adjourned the matter to Tuesday, June 26, for presentation of probations reports. The case for the prosecution was presented by State Counsel Lisa Cave in association with State Counsel Orinthia Schmidt. The now convicted killers were tried at the High Court in Georgetown. In her opening remarks, Prosecutor Orinthia Schmidt had told the court that Ramsundar is an uncle of Ragnauth, the number one accused in the murder trial. The Prosecutor said that on the day in question, there was a family problem which resulted in an altercation between Ramsundar and his
niece. According to the prosecutor, Ragnauth held on to her uncle, while her reputed husband stabbed him with a knife. It was revealed that Ragnauth also stabbed her uncle. Ramsundar was pronounced dead at the hospital, the Prosecutor added. Declaring her innocence, Ragnauth had told the court that around 14:30hrs on the day in question, her uncle, S u n i l , ( h e r m o t h e r ’s brother) came to her residence and requested to speak with her mother. She recounted telling her uncle that her mother was not at home, after which, she inquired from him what he wanted to talk to her mother about. According to the murder accused, her uncle told her that he had wanted some money from her mother, and later left and returned sometime after in a drunken state. ”When I went to speak with him (Sunil) he began cursing up and Nyron (her reputed husband) came out by the door,” Ragnauth said. She said, too, “Me and Nyron went inside and Sunil went away.” Ragnauth told the jury that her uncle later returned
MURDER ACCUSED: Vishwantie Ragnauth
MURDER ACCUSED: Nyron Thakurdyal
to her home and called out for her. “I went out to him and he start cuss me up and I cuss he back. He push me into the fence and I started screaming and Nyron came out and pull he away.” She added that she and her spouse later went to the police station and reported the incident. Asserting his innocence, Thakurdyal said that he arrived at Patentia at around 20:30hrs on December 26, 2014. He said that he and his spouse were standing on a dam when her uncle came and began “cussing” her. He added that during that time, he grabbed Ragnauth’s hand, and together, they walked away and went to her
home. According to Thakurdyal, about 22:30hrs Ramsundar came to the house and called out for Ragnauth, who went out and spoke with him. He recounted that a while after, he heard his spouse screaming and ran out to see what was happening. Thakurdyal told the court that he saw when Ramsundar held on to Ragnauth’s hands before bracing her to a fence. He added that he grabbed his spouse which resulted in Ramsundar falling, hitting himself on the fence. Justice Kissoon will sum up the evidence in the trial tomorrow before sending the matter to the jury for deliberation on a verdict.
Sunday June 17, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Triple ‘C’ Consultancy is on a mission to boost e-Agriculture
Founder of TCC: Bissasar Chintamanie E-Agriculture can be defined as a global community of practice, where people from all over the world exchange information, ideas, and resources related to the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) for sustainable agriculture and rural development. One local company, Triple ‘C’ Consultancy (TCC), is pushing frontier boundaries with its use of e-Agriculture to support local farmers. The company was founded in 2009, and is managed by a 13member board of local, regional and international professionals. However, the use of eAgriculture is not the least of what is done by the firm. TCC also provides other agricultural and environmental services such as Climate Smart Agriculture, Value Chain Development, Hydroponics and Aquaponics, Artificial Intelligence through agro-advisory, soil testing and mapping, Business Plan Development, Soil Testing and Mapping and Training. Founder of the company, Bissasar Chintamanie, a Climate Change/Sustainable Development Specialist, explained that e-Agriculture is an emerging field in the intersection of agricultural informatics, agricultural development and entrepreneurship, referring to agricultural services, technology dissemination, and information delivered or enhanced through the Internet and related technolo-
gies. More specifically, he said, it involves the conceptualization, design, development, evaluation and application of new (innovative) ways to use existing or emerging information and communication technologies (ICTs). TCC services go beyond technology, to promote the integration of technology with multimedia, knowledge and culture, with the aim of improving communication and learning processes between various actors in agriculture locally, regionally and worldwide, Bissasar added. He said, too, that it also involves facilitation, support of standards and norms, technical support, capacity building, education, and extension are all key components to TCC line of services. Chintamanie explained, “Our platform allows members to upload a request for information. For example they can ask for information on how to deal with crop diseases. All they have to do is send us a photograph or even send us a written summary of their problem and we can respond within 24 hours.” Pointing out that Guyana’s agricultural policies and plans have been developed and implemented by focusing on agricultural diversification, the founder disclosed that agricultural diversification plan gives high priority to national production, where more than 80% of the population depends on farming for their livelihood. Agriculture shares about 20% of the national GDP making the country predominantly agriculture based. The agriculture sector utilizes a huge mass of unskilled, economically active population. There are several types of activity related to e-agriculture applications that are widely recognised around the world today. Mr. Chintamanie explained that the delivery of agricultural information and knowledge services (i.e. market prices, extension services, etc.) using the Internet and related technologies falls un-
Interdicted police rank among seven arrested for firearm Ranks on police mobile patrol operating in Onderneeming, West Bank Demerara, detained seven men after a .38 revolver with a spent shell in its chamber was found in very close proximity of the group on Friday night around 21:45h. Two of the detainees are members of the Guyana Police Force; one of whom is currently interdicted and is reportedly renting a ‘mobile outlet’ at the said location. It was alleged that the suspects and others who escaped, were engaged in a card game of chance when the patrol approached and apprehended them. Investigations are ongoing and charges are to be laid soon.
der the definition of e-Agriculture. Where more advanced applications of e-agriculture in farming exist in the use of sophisticated ICTs such as satellite systems, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), advanced computers and electronic systems to improve the quantity and quality of production, say Chintamanie. He added that Guyana’s food production and produc-
tivity can be increased by an effective use of ICT for agricultural purposes. Some Developed Nations are using laser technology instead of tractors to plough lands. This helps in optimizing the use of various inputs such as water, seeds, fertilizers, etc. “The problem is that most Guyanese farmers cannot afford this technology; with the introduction of the Triple “C” Consultancy support ser-
vices for development, the use of this technology can be realised. Farmers can access these services for ‘less than a beer a week’.” The cost for this service is less than $30 per day. Chintamanie added, “Our team of experts work 24/7 to provide support services that is needed to enhance the agricultural sector in Guyana and the Caribbean…Our members are served through our Rural
Development specialist and through our web interface…We promote technology with the human touch.” GIVING BACK Chintamanie noted that TCC is not only seeking to offer a service, but gears the service it provides to support efforts at poverty reduction, through job creation and support of women in Small and (Continued on page 72)
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Sunday June 17, 2018
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Cops grill boyfriend of teen who died after ‘jumping’ from car - absence of abrasions on body raises suspicion Did 19-year-old Sasa Adams sustain her fatal injury after jumping from a moving car? A postmortem revealed that the teen suffered blunt trauma to the head, but police sources have told Kaieteur News that investigators are puzzled at the absence of abrasions on the corpse. Abrasions, according to a source, should have been present on someone who fell or jumped from a vehicle. The teen‘s 21-year-old boyfriend remained in custody and was being subjected to intense questioning up to late yesterday. Police were granted clearance from the court to have him further detained. A senior police officer said that the youth “is cooperating with investigators.” Asked if the police were treating the case as a murder investigation, the source said: “Any crime or alleged crime we approach with an open mind. “A thorough investigation is being done and afterwards we will submit a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.” The official declined to say if investigators gleaned any evidence from CCTV footage in the area where the incident allegedly occurred. According to a police statement, Adams and her 21year-old boyfriend were head-
Dead: Sasia Adams ing in a westerly direction on Lamaha Street in a white Toyota 212 Sunday night when Adams allegedly opened the door and jumped. Her boyfriend then picked her up and took her to the Balwant Singh Hospital. Police said that Adams was conscious when she arrived at the hospital. She reportedly stated that she had fallen down at home. She died at 11:25 hrs on Wednesday in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. Police detained Adams’s boyfriend after receiving conflicting reports about what had transpired. Adams, whose address was given as East Street, Georgetown, was employed as a Front Desk Agent at the Princess Ramada Hotel.
Re-migrants from Venezuela claiming mineral-rich land must prove citizenship – Min. of Foreign Affairs Re-migrant Guyanese from Venezuela claiming land in Ekereku, Region Seven must be able to prove their citizenship to the satisfaction of immigration authorities, a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said. The ministry noted that the claims to the mineral-rich land is not a straightforward case. The statement came following a report in sections of the local media that a group was claiming the lands based on the fact that they lived there before heading to Venezuela.. Cabinet has mandated the requisite ministries and agencies to investigate the matter, the statement added. The ministry said while the government is committed to
ensuring the rights of our indigenous peoples are respected, none of the persons in question has been able to prove their citizenship to the satisfaction of immigration authorities. Without this proof, they are not entitled to enter Guyana without permission from the relevant authorities. In such a case, there can be no claim to assets in Guyana since the ministry is unsure whether these persons are Guyanese or whether they actually are Venezuelan citizens. The ministry also cited security and other legal issues arising from the persons claiming land where gold is being mined without proper documentation.
Sunday June 17, 2018
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Kaieteur News
---Hinds’ Sight by Dr. David Hinds---
Rigging and the 2020 Election…
Decisions have Consequences; Party politics in Guyana is ignorant The difference at the 2011 and 2015 elections was made by a combination of a section of Indian Guyanese electorate which rebelled against the PPP and cast their lot with the AFC, and the Independent section of the African Guyanese electorate who had rebelled against the PNC and voted AFC in 2006, but cast their lot with APNU in 2011 and 2015. What those two groups had and have in common was/is their dislike of the politics of the PPP and PNC. They voted for the Coalition in 2011 and 2015 not because of the PNC but despite the PNC—they voted for the idea of a Government of National Unity. In fact, many of those voters hoped that the PNC would not behave in old ways once it got into power as part of the coalition. Despite changes in the leadership of the PNC from the bad old days, there was still the perception among most Indian Guyanese and independent African Guyanese that the party’s political culture had not changed—that it was still instinctively authoritarian. In that regard, it was expected that the AFC, and to a lesser extent the WPA, would act as checks and balances within the government—that they would be the watchdogs of democratic governance. This was and continues to be my reading of the outcome of the 2015 election. If one accepts that thesis, then the PNC also had a big responsibility. To my mind, it had to do two main things to make the government work and to keep the partnership together. First, it had to restrain itself from over-imposing the PNC on the Coalition. In other words, it had to ensure that the Coalition did not govern as PNC. Second, it had to do everything within its power to ensure that it does nothing that smells of dictatorship and electoral malpractice. In so
doing, it would uphold the democratic integrity of the government and deny the PPP any ammunition for its inevitable charges of dictatorship and election rigging. If the PNC could restrain itself and act tactfully and maturely, then the AFC and WPA’s task would be less difficult. A successful outcome would benefit the Coalition in three important ways. It would make it easier to hold on to those two swing constituencies for the next election, it would effectively negate the PPP’s stated agenda of demonization and more importantly, it would give the Coalition space to introduce a new political culture at the level of governance. Unfortunately, after three years, none of those expectations have been met. The PNC’s leadership in the government has directly and indirectly led the government as if it were a one-party PNC government. It has denied the WPA any meaningful governmental space, and while it could not do the same to the AFC thanks to the Cummingsburg Accord, it has skillfully outmaneuvered that party in the exercise of ultimate decision-making. The PNC’s tactic has been two-fold — confine decision-making to the Cabinet, where it has a decisive majority, and actively utilize the allpowerful presidency, which is constitutionally independent of all other government and non-government organs. It simultaneously immobilized APNU and ensured the APNU-AFC organs envisaged by the Cummingsburg Accord never got off the ground. This approach has silenced the AFC and WPA which have been caught between the proverbial rock and a hard place. Neither party wants to be seen as undermining a government that they are part of, even when that government makes unpopular moves. In
fact, over time, the AFC has co-owned many of those unpopular moves while the WPA, through a combination of factors, has been rendered powerless to the point of being in government in name only.I say all the above to argue that decisions have consequences. The decision by the PNC leadership to go in the direction described above has had consequences for where we are headed in 2020. Over the last few weeks the PPP has tactfully turned the spotlight on GECOM. The government, led by the PNC, is always vulnerable to three charges—electoral rigging, authoritarianism and ethnic favouritism. And the PPP has skillfully brought these three together these last few weeks. Remember, months ago the PPP forced the president to unilaterally name the GECOM chair—a decision that was constitutionally in order, but politically senseless. It gave the PPP the ammunition it needed for its narrative—the government is planning to rig in 2020 and it needed its own handpicked GECOM chair to spearhead this plan. Then it charges that GECOM personnel are mostly African Guyanese by design, not by ethnic choices in employment as is the correct explanation. Then it uses the occasion of the hiring of the person to fill a high-powered position in which the casting vote of the GECOM chair was decisive as proof of its case. Mr. Jagdeo then declares that rigging is on its way and that his party would mobilize its constituency to fight back. Whatever one thinks of the PPP and its politics in and out of government, one must conclude that over the last three years it has played the government like a sweet song. While the PNC has been busy outmaneuvering its coalition partners, the PPP has been equally busy outmaneuver-
The Baccoo Speaks The police are going to solve another cold case. They will find the suspect in a hinterland area where he had been for some time. The issue would be a murder that had gone unsolved for years. Not really unsolved but the suspect had managed to elude arrest. ** Another stolen car would be found on the west side of the river. The police
would stop the vehicle and ask for the registration papers. An alert policeman would see something wrong. The vehicle would be in the
wrong colour. Whoever sold it to the current owner would have made changes, but there are some things that cannot be readily changed. ** There will be reports of a river disaster. Some people will be on the river heading home when there would be a collision. People would be injured but some residents along the river would respond.
ing the Coalition. It doesn’t matter what the Coalition says or does between now and 2020 and beyond, it will always be on the defensive—the tag of rigged election has already stuck, thanks to the fact that the government is seen and governs as the PNC, the party with the image of rigging. If the Coalition wins in 2020, its victory would be framed by the PPP as fraudulent and the government would not be recognized. If the 1997 election, when the PNC charged the PPP with rigging and refused to recognize the PPP government, is anything to go by, then Guyana is in for a rough ride. We have got to this point partly because of the PPP’s ability to study its opponent, bait them, control the politi-
cal discourse, and engage in the worst form of political hypocrisy. And partly because the government either lacks political brains or if it does have, it doesn’t use them—it has made political decisions that feed the PPP’s agenda and weakens its own position as the agent of democratic advance.The simple truth is that the PNC leadership in government cannot defend itself against charges of rigging, which is key to holding those Indian Guyanese and African Guyanese independents who voted for it in 2011 and 2015. Ironically, it would take the voices of the marginalized AFC and WPA and the independent supporters of the Coalition, some of whom have been banned from the State Media on the orders of the top
Dr David Hinds leadership of the government, to beat back the PPP’s propaganda and dig the government out of the hole it finds itself in. The PNC leadership put the Coalition in the hole and it is now the burden of the underlings to salvage the situation. Decisions have consequences. Party politics in Guyana is ignorant. More of Dr. Hinds’ writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his w e b s i t e www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics.news Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com
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Kaieteur News
Fingerprints on a dead man’s safe By Michael Jordan You will find Rachpaul’s Drug Store in a three-storey building at Lot 75 Robb Street, Lacytown. There’s an old restaurant in the middle flat. Rachpaul’s Drug Store is in the bottom flat, and it is there that harmless, 84-yearold Harold Rachpaul had been tending to his customers since the sixties, when you could buy a box of chicken fried rice for a dollar. Mr. Rachpaul lived alone in an apartment behind the drug store. At around nine o’clock on the evening of Thursday, August 18, 2011, Mr. Rachpaul’s eldest son, Leonard, paid his dad a visit. But according to the son, just as he was about to enter the compound, he observed a man hurrying towards a yard next door to his father’s property. That yard, he says, is a haven for drug-smoking vagrants.The man Leonard Rachpaul saw was known as ‘Dahl Belly’. He was a security guard who worked at a
popular business place on the opposite side of Robb Street. The guard would sometimes buy cigarettes and other small items at the drug store.According to Mr. Rachpaul’s son, on seeing him, ‘Dahl Belly’ stopped briefly as if in surprise, then proceeded to enter the yard where the vagrants loitered. Leonard Rachpaul told me that he put his father’s dinner on the stove. Afterwards, he placed the hot meal by his father’s television set. At the time, the Rachpauls had one large dog and two pups. According to the son, he put the largest animal in a pen. However, before leaving, his father asked him to release the dog.At around eight o’clock the following day, Leonard Rachpaul, accompanied by his son, returned to open the premises. According to Leonard Rachpaul, he stopped to speak to someone, while his son went to Mr. Rachpaul’s apartment. Shortly after, his son ran out of the yard and began to scream. Leonard Rachpaul fol-
Bound, beaten and strangled: Harold Rachpaul’s murder remains a mystery lowed his son into his elderly father’s apartment. On entering, they saw that a vault was open and the contents, including close to $1M in cash and phone cards, were missing. But the most disturbing thing was the body in the bedroom. Old Harold Rachpaul lay on the floor near the bed. He was gagged and wrapped in a bed-sheet. His hands and feet were bound
with the electrical cord from his iron. He had been beaten and strangled. Leonard Rachpaul said that the dog that he had released before leaving the previous day was now penned. The son tried to revive his motionless father, then ran over to the Police Consumers building for help. According to the son, he suspected that the killers attacked his elderly father shortly after the drug store owner had placed his dog back in the pen. He surmised that the intruders then took his father back to the apartment, and to pacify them, Mr. Rachpaul opened his safe and handed over his money and other valuables. He was then slain. Detectives began to question employees and residents in the immediate area. Asked if he had any suspects in mind, Leonard Rachpaul immediately told police about his encounter with ‘Dahl Belly.’ Detectives decided to question the suspect. But the security guard could not be found. Detectives obtained the man’s cell phone number and asked him to come in for questioning. The guard refused. Detectives later learnt that he had left his job. As luck would have it, I got a cell phone number a few days after the guard disappeared. I dialed it. ‘Dahl Belly’ answered. I asked him about Mr. Rachpaul’s murder. He began to cry and told me that he was innocent. He told me that he had four small children, and yes, there was a time when he had been on the wrong side of the law. He’d been remanded twice for armed robbery but was never convicted. But he’d changed his lifestyle. He’d worked as a guard for over a year at the Robb Street establishment near to Rachpaul’s Drug Store. “I got to be a madman to be working right there and do something like that. I change. I working. I does draw my box hand, I does work for $15,000 a week, I does draw my leave money…thirty thousand dollars; I content with that,” he told me. So where was he on the night that Mr. Rachpaul is believed to have been killed? According to ‘Dahl Belly’, he was on duty outside his employer ’s premises on Thursday, August 18, 2011, up to midnight (Friday, August 19, 2011). He said that footage recorded on the security cameras on his former employer’s premises would verify his story. He claimed that shortly after midnight, he went to “take a five” in the yard near Rachpaul’s Drug Store. After resting, the guard said he returned to his
worksite, and his employer’s cook arrived at around five o’clock that morning. He said he later opened the premises and assisted the cook in cutting up some vegetables. The former guard stated that at around one o’clock that afternoon, he received a call from someone who identified himself as a policeman. The caller requested that ‘Dhal Belly’ submit himself for questioning in connection with a murder. According to the guard, he told his employer about the development, and asked the businessman to accompany him to the station. “I tell he to come in with me, that the (security) cameras will pick up everything, and he refuse.” He said he then told the police that he would only submit himself for questioning if he could hire an attorney. Police subsequently searched his home and briefly detained his sister. Police ranks began to call his mobile phone and request that he submit himself for questioning.According to ‘Dahl Belly, he refused to be questioned “because I afraid they would knock (charge) me for something I didn’t do.” He claimed that during one of his previous arrests, police ranks “beat me so bad that I admit to things that I never do.” Asked about possible suspects, he suggested that police look at three other people who might have information about the murder. He said that two of the individuals were ‘junkies’ who slept at night in a yard near Mr. Rachpaul’s home. A few days later, I dialed ‘Dahl Belly’s’ phone number. The calls went to voicemail. In October 2011, Police issued a wanted bulletin for ‘Dhal Belly’, in connection with Harold Rachpaul’s murder. They subsequently arrested him but cleared him as a suspect, and we eventually met. The trail went cold for almost three years. FINGERPRINTS In late February 2014, police announced that they had gotten a break in the unsolved murder. Fingerprints found on the open money-safe at Rachpaul’s Drug Store had checked against others stored in the Force’s recently acquired Automated Fingerprinting Identification System (AFIS).According to the police, the prints had ‘points of similarity’ to those of a young minibus conductor. He was Orin Kevin Roberts of ‘C’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown. Roberts was charged with
murder on March 4, 2014. His High Court trial began in 2015. GRILLED The question of whether the fingerprints at the murder scene matched those of the accused was hotly contested by both prosecution and defence. Detective Salish Roopnarine recalled obtaining and processing fingerprints from the accused. A fingerprint sheet was also presented as part of the evidence in the trial. However, under cross-examination by the defence, the detective admitted that he was not attached to the Fingerprint Branch of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The defence also pointed out to the policeman that there were double markings and distortions with the fingerprints on the document. In addition, it was noted that the prints on the sheets appeared much larger than the fingers of the accused. Through a series of demonstrations, the defence challenged the likelihood of the giant prints belonging to his client. “It appears so” and “yes sir” were the only words uttered by the policeman, in response to the questions. And during cross crossexamination by the State Counsel, the detective still could not give an explanation for the distorted (double) prints. The policeman however noted that in process of taking the prints and rolling the finger on the sheet from side to side, it would appear larger that a person’s actual finger. EXPERT TESTIFIES Testifying for the prosecution, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Raffeik Ali said that based on the analysis he conducted, the fingerprint impressions taken at the murder scene matched the prints that police took from Roberts. He said that the prints had undergone computer analysis as well as manual examination. The policeman also stated that the computer identifies possibilities of a fingerprint match, while the manual examination, can confirm the match. Like his colleague, Detective Ali was faced with a series of questions by the defence regarding the precision and accuracy of his analysis. The policeman insisted that the prints belonged to Roberts. As to the accused, he insisted to the court that the fingerprints (Continued on page 45)
Sunday June 17, 2018
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Kaieteur News
==THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN==
UG governance: I do not want any recognition
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he nephew of the Guyanese icon, Moses Bhagwan, Mr. Naim Chan, invited me and David Hinds on his daily morning programme on CNS Channel 6 to discuss the 38th death anniversary of Walter Rodney last Wednesday. Chan asked both of us if we would run for election and seek office. We both declined. For my part, I said that was not in my blood. I told Chan I stay away from the limelight and just do my little work for the Guyanese people. I am never seen at fancy social gatherings, cocktail functions or embassy parties. I don’t go to these things. I just stay in my corner, continue with my social activism, and laugh at Guyana for the many times I am right about how foolish this country is. I never asked for recognition when I am proven right. There was a loud explosion about two weeks ago about the harshness of the marijuana law. But years ago in these columns I have been constantly lamenting (and still do) the sadistic mistreatment of poor Guyanese youths. I was the only person who went public in citing the foolishness of having three bridges over the trench between Irving Street and Vlissengen Road, and all three were two-way traffic lanes. The resulting confusion was insane. Years after, they made all the bridges into one-way
lanes. I carped frequently in these columns about the foolishness that Khurshid Sattaur embraced for years at the GRA with respect to renewal of a vehicular road licence. The licence was only available after the budget was passed and had a close off time of three days. The rush at the GRA was psychotic. My suggestion carried many times in my commentaries was to make the document available anytime. Sattaur did that without acknowledging my crusade. But I didn’t care for any mention. We come now to the UG announcement about changes to the make-up of the Council. In 1995, the Jagan Government amended the University of Guyana Act to allow the council to have sectoral representation from the following; farmers, Amerindians, women groups, lawyers, doctors, trade unions, opposition parliamentary party, ruling party, etc. This made no sense, but it was a mechanism for controlling the council, since the PPP regime made all the selections rather than allow these sectors to appoint their own choices.
I publicly denigrated this foolishness from the time it came into being in 1995. Now it looks like this stupidity is coming to an end, but it may well be replaced by another stupidity. The University of Guyana statutes give enormous powers to the Vice Chancellor. The only avenue that can reverse or stop a Vice Chancellor’s decision is the council, as it did when the current Vice Chancellor wanted to pay a monthly rent of $6 million for a building at Camp and Lamaha Streets. Here is where the mediocrity of Guyana’s journalism and the sheepish nature of this population comes in. The Vice Chancellor met the press at a luncheon to mark his second year in office and made the announcement of the impending changes. And not one journalist got up and asked that if the Council’s power is cut, then the Vice Chancellor becomes the Leviathan at UG, because there will be no source at UG that can curtail his power. I worked at UG for 26 consecutive years, held a leadership role in the union for seven years, and was a member of the Council for six
years. I know that there is no parallel source of power to the Vice Chancellor. Only the council can order him or cancel his decision. This analysis here has absolutely nothing to do with the current Vice Chancellor. He is new. The previous Vice Chancellors openly abused their authority because of the enormity of the power of their office. The point is, if the government is going to minimize the authority of the council, it should at the same time, in the impending amendment to the UG Act, decentralize
power in general at the institution. This means decentralizing the Vice Chancellery, thus empowering some important committees that the Vice Chancellor is in charge of, namely the Academic Board, the Finance and General Purpose Committee, the Committee of Deans, the Appointments Committee. All these sources of authority at UG are headed by the Vice Chancellor. He is legally in charge of them and could rescind any decision they make. Sadly and most tragically, our academics and
Frederick Kissoon civil society will not raise even a faint voice in furtherance of democratic consolidation in Guyana. They aren’t going to say at least one word.
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Kaieteur News
We live in a civilized society with no State protection for wrongdoers
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ampaigners seem to be writing their scripts already for the 2020 General and Regional elections, and as is expected, the rhetoric of the opposition has taken on the customary tone of belligerence. Whatever they say, there is little to no doubt that the governing coalition is going about its business of restoring law and order; raising employment rates albeit incre-
mentally; installing facilities for the most basic amenities like potable water and modern health facilities, especially in remote communities where they had not existed for decades; training young people here and abroad to lead their own e n t e r p r i s es and the Government’s agencies; and reducing the number of people operating outside the law, breaking every public financing rule purely for self
enrichment. Some of the old systems that allowed them to do so are still in place, but as soon as they are identified, they are changed or scrapped. Admittedly this is a long process, but it is being done. Some of those perpetrators are already before the courts facing a slew of criminal charges like narcotics trafficking; human trafficking; theft and misappropriation of
many billions in cash and state assets; discharging firearms in public places; high sea piracy; causing death by dangerous driving; assault and murder; a n d p o ssession of unlicensed weapons. While many have been caught, numerous others are still under investigation. Before the Coalition Government took office, too many criminals got away with slaps on the wrists after committing some horrible wrongs, but like we’ve said ad nauseum, when people are fed up, they are fed up. It is not often that the Caribbean region witnesses the kind of turnabout that Guyanese delivered in 2015, and Barbadians in 2018. It’s a signal. People are now aware of their power and they’re using it. In Guyana, our experiences in the early years of the millennium were characterized by the worst kinds of violence in living memory. We witnessed violent criminal gangs in possession of large caches of high powered weapons and ammunition, bullet proof vests, high tech triangulation and listening devices and other murderous equipment. Soon after the millennium dawned, a so-called ‘Phantom Squad’, is alleged to have held
Guyana hostage for a good many years. People were shot down in the streets; police officers were stalked and killed, some in their homes with their families. The Police had no power and they walked the streets in civilian clothing. For the ordinary man, the sights and sounds of gun fights with laser bullets streaking pink across a clear afternoon sky will stay with us for a long time. We want no repeat, no replay. No one dares to imagine what Guyanese are going to suffer if the then governing party takes back the reins of power in 2020, 2024 or later. There is still some amount of fear lurking, brought on by the knowledge that many people who operated in the Jagdeo-Ramotar era are still in play while the necessarily long, tedious investigations are going on. SOCU is not giving up though. This is the era of the APNU-AFC Administration where law and order will rule. Remember that Guyana, 3 short years ago, was labeled as a ‘drug transshipment point’ by international law enforcement. We haven’t heard or seen that label lately because SOCU is cleaning house. There is no one in the corridors of ‘power’ ordering SOCU to back off, or to give back drugs to perpetrators, or to not bother them again or else they (the sleuths) would lose their jobs and be jailed on trumped up charges. We remember a guest on a
local television talk show a few years ago blurting out that laundered money from the narcotics trade had helped to create jobs in Guyana. That happened during the time when the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) was struggling to get Guyana to acknowledge their existence, and rid itself of its allegedly drug-funded parallel economy. More recently in April 2018 the nation was very shocked to learn about the fishermen who had the most horrible experience while fishing off Suriname’s coast. They were brutally attacked by pirates and most of them died. It is an undisputed fact that the Cabinet and the Public Security Ministry have applied a no-nonsense approach to crime and violence. The Police Force clearly believes that it is now free to operate within the boundaries of its Standard Operating Procedures without political interference. High and lower level operatives in the public sector are also aware that law enforcement will move against them if/when credible information surfaces about bribe-taking, corrupt transactions and other malfeasances. The Police Force now has the backing of rightthinking, reasonable men and women in government who are determined to wash away Guyana’s old cultures that did no good for our people.
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Kaieteur News
My column
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oncessions are one of the means coun tries like Guyana can attract foreign investors. And there have been many in the past years. These concessions are generally granted after the investors discuss with the authorities, the things they are bringing into the economy. Agreements are signed and the concessions are sought. But there are contradictions. I would expect the local investors to be granted concessions, perhaps even better concessions, because they are home and spending their own money to aid in national development. The result is that they go about taking their chances and hoping to reap the rewards for their efforts. There have been large investments in Guyana, some large enough to match foreign investors. There was the Pegasus hotel purchase by entrepreneur Robert Badal. The hotel was up for sale and there were some interested people, many of them very friendly with the government. Badal faced many obstacles in the dying stages of
the agreement to secure the hotel, but in the end he prevailed. It was not surprising, though, that he did not get some of the concessions that are available to people in the hotel industry. Soon after Badal purchased the Pegasus, the government announced that it was constructing a top class hotel. The site was next door to the Pegasus. It goes without saying that there were concessions galore. Badal cried foul, but there was nothing that he could do. There were other foreign investors, the most prominent of which was BaiShanLin. I had a chance to see the list of concessions that this company sought from the government and it boggled the mind. There were requests for many vehicles; enough paint to cover all of Guyana, steel to build ten stadia and the list goes on. President Donald Ramotar would later say that he never granted those concessions, but the company had secured a lot earlier. One of the things promised was a sawmill at the logging site. This was not a reality.
Meanwhile, the prying eyes of the media community found that BaiShanLin had indulged in a lot of irregularities, each robbing the treasury. There were the gold mining companies from Canada and Australia. These too enjoyed massive concessions to the point that the local gold miners complained. They felt that they should get the same. Indeed they got fuel concessions. They were also allowed to keep some of the foreign currency they earned from their sales. Now we have another case of a foreign investor against a local investor. Roy Beepat dived deep to construct Giftland Mall. It was a massive investment to construct the largest mall in Guyana. It offered a movie centre, shopping centres and food courts. Needless to say, the cost of electricity was astronomical, so high that Beepat found that self-generation was the way to go. Then came another entertainment centre— MovieTowne. This entity is being financed by a Trinidad-
based Guyanese, Derek Chin. When the project was launched at Georgetown Club, the stated objective was very promising. The claim was that MovieTowne Guyana is set to transform the lives of the people of Guyana like it has done for Trinidad and Tobago, where it has emerged as the number one destination for family recreation, movie-going, s hopping and dining for people of all ages, all ethnicities and all income brackets. It will also provide more than 700 local jobs and provide affordable, all-encompassing entertainment for Guyanese citizens. It promised to be a mega project for Guyana’s development and construction is already underway and the project is expected to be completed in 2016. It was only recently that I learnt that MovieTowne had promised to generate enough electricity to power the University of Guyana next door. The reality is that MovieTowne is not yet finished. There has also been no promised electricity to the
University. Instead, Chin is complaining that he cannot get power from Guyana Power and Light. He has also said that he has encountered a lot of red tape in acquiring concessions. Immediately Giftland has asked that the concessions for MovieTowne be made public. Giftland and MovieTowne are both in the same business, so they should enjoy the same incentives. Beepat knows what he is spending. He also knows that he is getting no concession for electricity. Government had granted the Giftland complex concessions for air-conditioning units as well as ‘materials and equipment” associated with the setting up of the cinemas, those concessions did not extend to “building materials , plumbing, steel frames , equipment or anything else whatsoever. MovieTowne claims that it has items that attracted concessions on the wharf, but these have been stalled. The investment is placed at US$45 million; big enough to attract concessions, but Beepat knows that this new entity is a direct challenge to
Adam Harris his Giftland. They will both offer the same fare and will therefore vie for the same clientele. A few weeks ago there was a call for the concessions granted to foreign companies to be made public and The Ministry of Finance voiced its approval for such a move. Indeed, the wider society would see what it is giving up in revenue. I hold the view that a local company should be given more of the concessions, because the revenue earned stays here and helps to develop the country. At the same time the local company would be enhancing the labour market. I am no economist, so my conclusion may be out of place, yet I cannot help but conclude that at the end of the day the local company would be here.
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Kaieteur News
Diversifying our energy matrix - a considerable challenge and an opportunity
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reening the energy sector in Guyana, by substantially increasing investment in renewable energy, provides an opportunity to make a significant contribution to addressing the challenges of 1) concerns about energy security; 2) combating climate change; 3) reducing pollution and public-health hazards; and 4) addressing energy poverty. Renewable energy is derived from natural processes that are replenished constantly. In its various forms, it derives directly or indirectly from the sun, or from heat generated deep within the earth.
Included in the definition is energy generated from solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, hydropower and ocean resources, and biofuels and hydrogen derived from renewable resources (IEA 2008a). In his address at the commencement of the eleventh Parliament of Guyana. His Excellency President David Granger laid out his visions for the ‘greening’ of our economy. The President said: “Your Government envisages a green Guyana. We shall exploit Guyana’s favourable geographical location and abundant assets in order to develop a
‘green economy’ - one that generates human happiness in ways that are consistent with economic exploitation of its natural resources. We see a ‘green economy’ as one that sustains economic prosperity, environmental security and social wellbeing. It will allow the current generation to satisfy its needs without jeopardizing the opportunity of future generations to satisfy theirs. We shall confront the challenges of solid waste management, coastal zone conservation, flooding, public health and damage to rivers and forests by poorly-
regulated mining and logging practices. We shall introduce a strategy to protect the population from hazards, to preserve the environment from further degradation and to sustain development. Your Government will introduce an energy policy that utilizes our wind, water and solar power to provide cheap, renewable electricity to more Guyanese in our urban, rural, riverain and hinterland communities. We shall support the responsible exploitation of the hinterland’s mineral and other natural resources. We shall ensure, however, that the livelihood of the residents is sustained and that the environment is protected by the rigorous enforcement of environmental legislation”. Guyana has a rich endowment of potential for renewable energy that can help meet and surpass our short and long-term energy needs. According to the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), there are 67 identified potential hydro-electricity generation sites in Guyana. Solar Electricity is already being used in a limited way, particularly in the hinterland regions. Under the Unserved Areas Electrification Programme (UAEP), a number of communities have received solar photovoltaics’ home systems. Seven hundred residents of Mabaruma will by August enjoy seventeen hours of clean and reliable electricity with the completion of Guyana’s first ever solar farm. The $264Million farm in the Barima Waini Region covers ten acres on Khan’s Hill and will provide power to
Mabaruma and the surrounding areas. Currently, the Mabaruma Power Company provides only eight hours of electricity per day. Other solar farms at Lethem in Region Nine, Mahdia in Region Eight and at Bartica in Region Seven are planned. These farms are anticipated to generate 800, 400, and 1.5 kilowatts of electricity respectively. They are all part of the government’s plan to move Guyana towards becoming a ‘Green State’. Wind energy has been explored and has good prospects. These opportunities must be considered within the context of sound environmental practices. Biomass also presents the opportunity for diversifying the sugar industry, providing income generation opportunities as well as providing a relatively cheap source of power. The development of these resources must be given priority as part of our national development and national security strategy. Diversifying our energy matrix thus presents both a considerable challenge and an opportunity. Diversifying energy sources is not a new concept, nor is it unique to Guyana. In the United States of America, solar, wind, geothermal, bioenergy and water energy are all part of that country’s Climate Action plan. Developed countries, in the context of Climate change issues are driving the growth of renewable and ‘green energy’. This means that outside of producing clean energy for domestic purposes, there is a
huge potential for income generation. There are significant economic opportunities for countries that manufacture and produce clean energy. In a report compiled by the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Green Economy initiative in collaboration with economists and experts worldwide. It was demonstrated that the greening of economies did not generally place a drag on growth; rather ‘green economies’ proved to be net generators of decent jobs, and a vital strategy for the elimination of poverty. With high rates of unemployment and underemployment especially among the youth population, Guyana has a great opportunity for transformation and job growth. Training in science and technology is already a focus of this administration. This will allow the young people of Guyana to be able to take advantage of an expanding industry. The new well- paying jobs that will be accrued by the creation of ‘Wind and Solar Farms’; the building and operation of recycling plants for plastic, paper, bottles and car tires etc.; the banning of non-bio-degradable substances like Styrofoam, can all prove to be transformational for both the economy and the environment. Placing environmental protection at the forefront of a green energy sector means that natural resources can be exploited in a way that ensures sustainability while becoming an economic driver, which provides cheaper energy sources, creates jobs and ensures public health.
Sunday June 17, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Gambling addiction: Are you betting your life away? By Dr Zulfikar Bux Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine Gambling addiction is the uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the toll it takes on your life. Gambling basically means that you’re willing to risk something you value in the hope of getting something of even greater value. It can stimulate the brain’s reward system much like drugs or alcohol can, leading to addiction. If you have a gambling addiction, you may continually chase bets that lead to losses, hide your behaviour, deplete savings, accumulate debt, or even resort to thieving or harming others to support your addiction.With access to betting places becoming easier in Guyana, I’m beginning to see more and more persons getting hooked on the rush to win. My goal today is educate you on the effects of gambling addiction so that you can make more informed decision when it comes to gambling.
WHAT ARE SIGNS THATYOU HAVEA GAMBLINGADDICTION? The following are signs/ symptoms that highly indicate a gambling addiction: · Being preoccupied with gambling, such as constantly planning how to get more gambling money · Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to get the same thrill · Trying to control, cut back or stop gambling, without success · Feeling restless or irritable when you try to cut down on gambling · Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety or depression · Trying to get back lost money by gambling more (chasing losses) · Lying to family members or others to hide the extent of your gambling · Jeopardizing or losing important relationships, a job, or school or work opportunities because of gambling · Resorting to theft or
harming others to get gambling moneySome people with a gambling addiction may have remission where they gamble less or not at all for a period of time. However, without treatment, the remission usually isn’t permanent. CAN GAMBLINGADDICTION BE TREATED? Yes. However, pathological gambling can be hard to treat because you may not want to tell others about your problem. First, you have to admit you have a gambling problem by telling your family and friends. After that you can visit your doctor who can advocate for treatment in the following ways: · Therapy: behaviour therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy may be beneficial. Behavioural therapy uses systematic exposure to the behaviour you want to unlearn and teaches you skills to reduce your urge to gamble. Your doctor will most likely refer you to a psychiatrist/psychologist who can help with this. · Medications: Antide-
pressants and mood stabilizers may help problems that often go along with compulsive gambling — such as depression, or anxiety. Some antidepressants may be effective in reducing gambling behaviour. · Community help: Some people find that talking with others who have a gambling problem or understand gambling to be helpful. Ask your doctor for advice on self-help groups or if he/she can be of help by listening to you. Turning to trustworthy religious leaders may be a very good option in our setting here in Guyana. HOW DO YOU PREVENT
YOURSELF FROM FALLING BACK? That is a challenging task and it will take quite a bit of commitment from you and those close to you. These recovery skills may help you concentrate on resisting the urges of compulsive gambling: · Stay focused on your No. 1 goal: not to gamble. · Tell yourself it’s too risky to gamble at all. One bet typically leads to another and another. · Give yourself permission to ask for help, as sheer willpower isn’t enough to overcome compulsive gambling. Ask a family member or friend
Dr. Zulfikar Bux to encourage you to follow your treatment plan. · Recognize and then avoid situations that trigger your urge to bet.In the end, you have to make the choice if riding on luck and chance is the best solution. Some say the best way to get lucky is to work hard; the chances of being lucky increase as you work harder.
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SUNDAY Aurora Gold Mine breaches local and international aviation laws…Uses privately registered plane for commercial purposes Currently, Canadian Flyers is the registered owner of the Twin Otter being used by Aurora Gold Mine to shuttle goods and employees in and out of Region Seven daily. That aircraft is registered in Canada but is operating locally. Even more worrying is the fact that the plane is registered for private use. Operating a plane commercially in Guyana that is registered in another country as a private plane is a serious violation of aviation safety regulations in both countries, according to Guyana’s Civil Aviation Authority. Planes that are registered privately are required to be maintained at lower standards than planes that are registered commercially. Also, the training requirements for pilots authorized to fly private planes are lower than pilots flying commercial planes. Pilots flying privately do not have to meet the same flight training or medical standards as commercial pilots. Operating a privately registered plane for commercial purposes also has implications for the insurance. If the plane crashes into a house in Guyana, insurance would not cover that accident because the plane’s insurance is private but the accident occurred during a commercial operation.
In Canada, Commercial aviation is defined as the “use of an aircraft for hire or rew a r d . ” Transport Canada refers to business aircraft as privateair operators. However, it will only be considered private if the business is using the aircraft for that business only. In other words, from the time that business renders aviation services to another business “for reward,” it is then considered to be commercial. Therefore, the fact that Canadian Flyers is rendering services to Aurora, the aircraft is now flying commercial. This is what Canada Transport said, “If you are Canadian and you operate one or more private aircraft, you are required to register with Transport Canada. This registration process replaced the private air operator certificate for new operators as of May 28, 2014. “If you are a new private operator, you must apply for a private operator registration document. This registers you with Transport Canada and ensures your compliance with aviation regulations. What you need to know before you start. Private air operations are distinct from commercial air operations. They can be personal or for business. Here are two examples: An individual flies an aircraft for recreation or pleasure. A business operates an aircraft or a fleet of aircraft to transport employees or clients.” Aurora has told Guyana
The Twin Otter
that it owns the aircraft that is found to be registered in the name of Canadian Flyers. Read more at: h t t p s : / / www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ 2018/06/03/records-show-aurora-gold-mine-does-notown-twin-otter-operating-inguyana/ ExxonMobil’s list of 227 companies an embarrassment to Govt. – Chris Ram Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram, is of the firm view that the list of 227 companies submitted by ExxonMobil as part of its local content efforts is not only an embarrassment to the government but a gross insult to all Guyanese. In an interview with Kaieteur News, recently, the lawyer said that the roots of the “insulting” list can be
traced back to the government’s issuing of an exploration and production licence without the contractor providing information that is necessarily required under the Petroleum and Exploration R e g u l a t i o n s . The Chartered Accountant said, “This information deals with ExxonMobil’s local content plans. The Minister (of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman) according to the regulations should be satisfied that these plans are adequate. “Judging from the list that the company submitted to the Government, Trotman did not do a proper assessment and has to take responsibility for this. He is responsible for the condescending attitude that the ExxonMobil representatives display to this country.” It was on Tuesday that the Government released the list of companies submitted to it by ExxonMobil. Officials attached to the oil company later explained that list reflects companies it used, or those utilized by its contractors for the first quarter of 2018. But the list of “registered companies” has been found to be padded not only with the names of media houses it uses for advertisements, but also with 41 names of individuals. APNU+AFC Government organs act like agents of ExxonMobil – Ramson
APNU+AFC advertisement on its Facebook page
Former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament (MP), Charles Ramson, feels that the APNU+AFC Government has aborted its role as the people’s representative. He said that the government and its organs are now acting like “agents” of oil giant, ExxonMobil. During a recent interview, Ramson lamented the “unfortunate” series of events that followed Government’s release of the list of 227 companies that conducted business
with ExxonMobil during the first quarter of 2018. Ramson noted that the list was accompanied by an article written by the Department of Public Information (DPI) trying to discredit persons and companies that have refused to be apologists of ExxonMobil or “ExxonMobil sympathizers.” He noted, too, that articles were written by DPI without any sort of investigation that could have either verified or discredited the content of the list. Ramson said, “What surprises me about the publication of the Department of Public Information lauding the $10B purportedly spent by Exxon in 2017 and 2018 is that; in their haste to be agents of Exxon, the writers did not even check the accuracy of the information on the list.” Further, the oil and gas academic said that if the government and its organ—the DPI—understood an iota of how projects such as Liza phase one work, they would have been ashamed to say that so far, only $10B has been paid to local companies when the project is worth US$4.4B or $880B.Ramson explained, “The major spending from an oil company comes in this phase – called the development phase. But the government seems to be satisfied with the $10B purportedly spent in Guyana by Exxon since 2017 even though this represents just one percent of the project cost. “They are acting and sounding like agents for Exxon rather than agents of the people.” MONDAY Without appropriate rules and adequate oversight…Sovereign Wealth Funds no guarantee for prosperity, Analyst warns Governments are often open to creating Sovereign
Wealth Funds (SWFs) with the intention of squirreling away excess money made on their natural resources. This money can help to support budget shortfalls, can be used for international investments or simply serve as a savings for future generations. But economic analyst Andrew Bauer has cautioned that SWFs by themselves cannot guarantee future prosperity, and may even impede growth. Bauer is attached to the prestigious Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI). The consultant cited the example of the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund in Canada, which was designed in part to save oil revenues for future generations. Yet, it failed to save anything in all but two years between 1987 and 2012. As for Trinidad and Tobago, Bauer said that this country’s Heritage and Stabilization Fund’s mandate to mitigate the negative effects of oil revenue volatility on the country’s budget, actually led to worse public investment decisions. He said that it even led to slower growth. Elsewhere, as in Kuwait and Libya, the NRGI official highlighted that SWFs became channels for corruption and patronage, diverting billions of dollars away from social service and infrastructure spending. Bauer emphasized that SWFs by themselves do not guarantee sound macroeconomic management. In fact, the economic analyst said that these Funds may complicate budget processes and make public spending less accountable. Bauer said, “SWFs can be useful, but only if they help fulfill at least one macroeconomic objective, such as mitigating the impact of oil or mineral revenue volatility on government spending, or ‘parking’ oil windfalls until (Continued on page 33)
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From page 32 they can be spent more efficiently.” The economic analyst said that a global study of natural resource funds by the NRGI and Columbia Center for Sustainable Investment (CCSI) found that there are two pre-conditions for funds to function as planned: Appropriate rules must be enacted, and there must be adequate oversight and enough broad-based consensus to ensure compliance with those rules. Govt. commits to “fully transparent process” on all Public-Private Partnership projects Government has expressed its commitment to “a fully transparent process” on all Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) projects. The APNU+AFC administration made this known in its policy framework which was recently released by the Ministry of Finance. The document notes that the government intends to ensure that information about all of these projects and the performance of the programme, is publicly available. It said that this will enable independent auditing entities and the public to hold the Government accountable for its management of the programme. To this end, the Government said that it will disclose project and programme information in several regards. It said that information on each potential project and invitation for Expressions of Interest will be published as part of the tender process. The Government said that Public-Private Partnership
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contracts will be published as soon as they become effective, along with a summary of the key project features and commercial terms. It said that certain contractual details may be excluded to protect commercially sensitive information—but, considering the output-based characteristics of such contracts, commercially sensitive information will not generally be included, creating an expectation of full contract disclosure. The Government articulated that contract changes will also be published as soon as they become effective. With respect to performance data of each active Public-Private Partnerships project, the Government said that it will be publicly available. The APNU+AFC administration said that Public-Private Partnerships projects and the Public-Private Partnerships programme as a whole, may be periodically audited to assess whether the provisions of this policy have been followed, and whether the resultant projects are achieving the stated aims of the policy. It said, too, that external advisors may be contracted to provide appropriate expertise in assessing project quality. Ramotar slams Govt. on fuel price hike The coalition Government has been accused of abandoning policies that would help to cushion the effects of rising fuel prices on businesses and households. Former President Donald Ramotar pointed this out as part of what he said was the regime’s ‘remarkable lack of concern for people’s welfare’ and its support for fuel smug-
glers. “The regime has turned Nelson’s eye and a deaf ear to the cries of the people. They have totally ignored the protests of minibus and taxi drivers throughout the land,” Ramotar stated. He disclosed that the former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government had to deal with a similar situation on many occasions and its approach was totally different from this regime. According to Ramotar, when the price for oil went up internationally, the PPP/C administration adjusted the taxes downward. Similarly, when it goes very high, he stated that the PPP/C removed some taxes completely. “Indeed, I can recall at one time the price of fuel fell drastically. In that situation, we thought that people should benefit more from the price fall. Even in those circumstances, we reduced the taxes so our people could benefit. The consumers of electricity from Guyana Power and Light (GPL) benefitted due to reducing electricity bills,” Ramotar stated. He stated that the PPP/C administration used the stateowned Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) to regulate the price. According to Ramotar, as Guyoil reduced its price at the pump, the private gas station owners had to follow suit to keep up with the competition. “In the first place, they [coalition government] are very aggressive to collect maximum revenues. Taxes and licences are put on the donkey cart operators and on housewives kitchen gardens. People in micro business are not spared; they too are being hounded down,” Ramotar
The Enmore Estate, which was close last year
Among other things, vessels will have to introduce ‘by catch reduction’ devices to potect endangered species outlined. The former President also suggested that another reason for the coalition refusing to ease the taxes on fuel is to help smugglers. By keeping the price high at the pump the regime is allowing the smugglers to make huge, super profits. “The regime will, therefore, do nothing to reduce or remove the taxes because this will affect the huge profits that the smugglers make, many of whom are close to the regime, and reduce the kickbacks
which some people high in government receive. The people are being soaked to uphold the lavish lifestyle and massive corruption,” Ramotar stated. The former President noted that the people must now bear the huge burden “to satisfy the greed of the rulers.” TUESDAY Govt. signs tough new fishing regulations – $1M fines for illegal fishing; stricter penalties for turtle protection Government has signed new fishing regulations which tout tougher fines and stricter monitoring of high seas operations. The order, signed on April 21 by Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder, is known as The Fisheries (Exemption from Registration and Licensing) Order 2018. It was gazetted on May 26. The order will revoke the 1957 fishing regulations. It will come at a time when the US and other large customers are demanding Guyana put into place tougher checks and balances to ensure that fishing is legal and that the process is verifiable. Among other things, boat owners and captains have to ensure certificates of not only the vessels but the installation of geographical monitoring systems and devices to protect turtles and other protected species.
Failure to implement could see Guyana losing its markets. Already, one large fishery operations, BEV Processors, is preparing to close from midJuly. The company’s owner, Bruce Vieira, has cited tougher conditions, on certifications and deadline and market prices, as the main concerns for the decision. With regards to the new regulations, foreign fishing vessels may operate but have to be licensed with the operators mandated to keep meticulous records of catches and for these to be submitted within 15 days to the Chief Fisheries Officer (CFO) or its designates. The regulations forbid the transfer of catches to and from the foreign vessels unless these are approved. According to the order, even the fish pens and pin seines which are used to trap fish have to be licensed. It is a no-no for the permits or licences to be sold or in any way transferred without the permission of the CFO. Boat operators have to monitor traps and cannot leave them unattended for more than two days. The traps and other equipment, including buoys, all have to be marked or will be disposed of. Failure to have a by-catch reduction device and a certificate could see fines of up to $250,000. Notably, once the fishing boats have set their traps, it (Continued on page 34)
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From page 33 is not allowed for any other fishing activities to take place within a nautical mile. This is to prevent overfishing. There are even tougher fines for fishing vessels without a Turtle Exclude Device (TED). The fines could go to $1M. Any turtles caught must be released and if hurt will have to be resuscitated according to established procedures. All vessels must also carry a spare TED. Glaring transparency and accountability issues over GuySuCo’s US$150M bond deal – Opposition There is need for the Coalition Government to explain several issues, which have emerged in relation to the $150M syndicated bond secured for the four sugar estates which were closed last year. This is the view of Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, who raised several questions about the deal, in a statement, yesterday. According to a statement from Jagdeo, the Government has failed to provide the Parliament or the public, with details on how the monies will be used. The state-owned National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) received roughly US$85M, which was disbursed on May 24, 2018, with the residual tranche to be issued to NICIL as is needed. NICIL is expected to raise US$65M through a combination of local and regional investors, including those in Trinidad and Jamaica. NICIL’s team lead by Colvin HealthLondon, the head of the Special Purpose Unit (SPU), structured the bond to recapitalize GuySuCo’s operations. “Government has a duty to explain why it did not borrow the money itself if a sovereign guarantee was being issued. Government typically borrows at interest rates below 2% and repayment terms over 30-40 years. Why is the NICIL-GuySuCo SPU borrowing at 4.75% and repaying this over five years, with a full Government guarantee?” Jagdeo questioned. According to the Opposition Leader, there is no information as to what assets were used to secure the bonds. He said that there is extreme concern about the risk of the Treasury having to pay back the investors and have serious concerns on whether investors are simply relying on this guarantee when there are glaring transparency and accountability issues. He reminded that the Parliament recently raised the
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debt ceiling to guarantee debt to the amount of $50B. Apart from a mere reference to a $30B GuySuCo bond, Jagdeo stated that not a single detail was provided. Man threatens to bomb stores, charged with inciting public terror A labourer, who recently posted on his Facebook account that Essequibo belongs to Venezuela and that he will bomb all the stores in Guyana, was on Monday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan who cited public safety. Twenty-three-year-old Shiam Wazir Nazir, of Parika Backdam, East Bank Essequibo, appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts late yesterday afternoon, where a charge of inciting public terror was read to him. The allegation against Nazir stated that between June 1 and June 3 at Parika, East Bank Essequibo, with intent to cause public terror, he wrote on his Facebook post that Essequibo belongs to Venezuela and that he will bomb all the stores in Guyana one by one. Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield strongly objected to bail being granted to the defendant citing the seriousness of allegation. The prosecutor further submitted that should bail be granted, the defendant would not return to court for the trial. The Chief Magistrate after listening to the prosecutor remanded the defendant to prison until June 26, when he will appear at the Leonora Magistrates’ Courts. WEDNESDAY MovieTowne owner decries red tape in US$40M Turkeyen investment Owners of the ambitious MovieTowne mall are complaining of the red tape in getting business done, and appealing for help from Government. Speaking shortly before a guided tour of parts of the Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara complex on Tuesday, Guyana-born Chairman, Derek Chin, made it clear that he badly wants the facilities here up and running. However, there seems to be no point person here to deal with the project. It took six weeks just to get electricity to test the movie theatres. The Guyana project would be the first overseas venture of the MovieTowne brand and would come at a time when Trinidad and Tobago, running high for years with
MovieTowne’s Derek Chin (fourth from right) with private sector officials its oil riches, is experiencing the effects of low prices. With foreign exchange running low and unemployment rising in the Twin-Island Republic, companies there have been turning a quick eye to Guyana for business opportunities. On Tuesday, it was executives of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) who gathered with Chin at the Turkeyen complex to raise awareness of the issue of the sloth with bureaucracy. It was disclosed that although it was promised that a road and bridge on the western side of the compound would be done as part of a concessionary arrangement, MovieTowne was forced to shell out millions to do it just to ensure that there are no delays. Chin and his directors - at least two of them are also of Guyanese origin - are hoping to open the eight-screen movie theatre by August, but it will be an uphill task. Massy Stores Supermarket will be opening a major superstore next door, the biggest of its kind in the Caribbean. Forensic Lab unable to conduct gunpowder tests It’s been several months since the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL) has conducted gunpowder residue tests. That’s because the near-obsolete equipment it acquired from the Guyana Police Force is inoperable. Officials at the GFSL are seeking Inter-American Development Bank funding to acquire new equipment. Attempts are also ongoing to acquire software for the old machine. The equipment the lab needs is used to conduct the final tests to confirm the pres-
ence of gunpowder residue. In an interview some months ago, GFSL’s Director Delon France had explained that two tests (presumptive and confirmatory) are required to confirm the presence of gunpowder residue, since there are substances (such as brake pad residue) that are similar to gunpowder. “The preliminary tests (also called the presumptive or screening tests) will pick up (evidence of) chemicals which appear to be gunshot residue, or which mimic gunshot residue. Then you do the confirmatory tests, which would confirm what substance it actually is.” The malfunctioning equipment has resulted in delays in a number of murder investigations in which gunpowder residue plays a vital part. The GFSL began conducting tests for the Guyana Police Force on March 1, 2017. The Director had said that the lab had “boxes upon boxes of evidence” to process, including toxicology tests, and tests on currency, and for blood. GECOM Chairman votes down best ranking candidate for Deputy Chief Elections Officer – PPP/C Commissioners convinced vote hinged on “race issues” Peoples Progressive Party/Civic Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) are of the opinion that if the principle of meritocracy was employed, Vishnu Persaud would have been re-appointed Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO). They claim, however, that because Persaud is of East Indian descent, GECOM Chairman, James Patterson, voted against his appoint-
ment. This was expressed by PPP/C Commissioners on Tuesday afternoon at an impromptu press conference held at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition. Commissioners Robeson Benn, Sase Gunraj and Bibi Shadick all presented on the “unpalatable” state of affairs at GECOM. Shadick told the media that for the second consecutive week, she and her two colleagues staged a walked out from a GECOM statutory meeting. She said that this was after the GECOM Chairman used his casting vote to support the PNCR-nominated Commissioners’ rejection of Persaud. Shadick said that the casting vote exercised by the GECOM Commissioner was placed in favour of the number-two ranked applicant, an Afro-Guyanese, Roxanne Myers. Shadick and Benn said that they argued, during the statutory meeting, that Persaud not only managed to survive the evaluation process, but is a person who functioned in the position for several years, has had positive performance evaluations during those years, and is “eminently qualified.” Shadick said that Persaud was made to re-apply for a job he held because his contract came to an end at a time when there was no functioning Commission, following the resignation of former GECOM Chairman, Dr. Steve Surujbally. The contracts of the Assistant Chief Elections Officer (ACEO), the Logistics Manager and others were also not renewed for this reason. Shadick said that the post of DCEO was not the only one GECOM attempted to fill recently.
Commissioners also interviewed candidates for the posts of Information Technology Manager, Public Relations Officer and Legal Officer. She said that the top ranking candidates of all the other positions turned out to be of Afro ancestry and they were all appointed. “But the one Indo-Guyanese who ranked number one is not being appointed.” Teen dies after allegedly jumping from moving car – boyfriend in custody Nineteen year old Sasia Adams died Tuesday at Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital, just over 24 hours after she allegedly jumped from her boyfriend’s moving car onto Lamaha Street. Adams, whose address was given as East Street, Georgetown, was employed as a Front Desk Agent at the Princess Ramada Hotel, was taken to the Hospital around 20:30hrs (8:30pm) on Sunday, by her 21-year-old boyfriend, where she was admitted to the Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, as her condition was listed as critical. The circumstances surrounding what caused Adams to sustain injuries were confirmed by the Guyana Police Force as being an incident that occurred on Sunday night on Lamaha Street, where Adams and her boyfriend were heading in a westerly direction in a white Toyota 212 motor car. Adams was said to have opened the door and leapt from the car and landed on the southern side of the road. Her boyfriend then picked her up and took her to the hospital. A police statement confirmed that Adams died at 11:25hrs Tuesday.Police have since taken Adams’ (Continued on page 35)
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From page 34 boyfriend into custody and initiated an investigation, after there were conflicting stories in relation to what really transpired. When the police visited the Hospital after the incident occurred, they were told that Adams had come into the medical institution in a conscious state, and had related that she had fallen down at home. Police have since been accessing CCTV footage from businesses in the area where it was said Adams jumped from her boyfriend’s car with the hope of bringing some clarity as to what really transpired. Investigations are continuing. Cocaine, ganja, satellite phone seized in major CANU operation– Five charged Anti-narcotics ranks believe that they have dented a major drug smuggling ring that routed coke through the Pomeroon, Region Two area. In a bust on June 6 in the Parika area, East Bank Essequibo, ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) arrested five men, including four occupants of two cars and a boat captain. They seized a significant quantity of cocaine and marijuana as well as a satellite phone. On Wednesday, five men appeared before Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court. They are being charged with possession for the purposes of trafficking. The five men charged are Khamraj Lall, 39, of Zeelugt; Marlon Lawrence, 36, of Felicity, East Coast Demerara; Rajendra Persaud, 47; Cleve Thornhill and Doodnauth Chattergoon. CANU in a statement disclosed that the seizures and
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arrests occurred on June 6th, 2018 at Parika, East Bank Essequibo. The unit disclosed that a quantity of suspected cocaine and marijuana concealed in two blue plastic gas bottles were intercepted in the trunk of a motor vehicle at Parika Public Road. In two gas containers, CANU ranks found 35.080 kilograms (77 pounds) of suspected cannabis and 13.812 kilograms (30 pounds) of suspected cocaine. The matter continues on July 3. THURSDAY ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron score poorly on Transparency International Index According to Transparency International, the governments of many oil-rich countries have failed at transforming resource wealth into a better standard of living for the citizenry. The global watchdog believes that at the root of this, is the lack of transparency between governments and oil companies. With that understanding in mind, the anti-corruption body sought to shed some light on how secretive oil companies are about their operations and how this lends to corruption. In this regard, the international group conducted a study on more than 30 oil companies in the world. The companies were scored in several categories, one of which includes country-level disclosure. This aspect evaluates companies based on their reporting of financial data, transfers to Governments and operating data on a country-by-country basis. Out of 100, ExxonMobil, Shell and Chevron scored poorly. ExxonMobil and Shell tied at
Dead: Sasia Adams
In one of the movie theatres 10 out of 100 while Chevron got eight marks. Transparency International stressed that countrylevel reporting is an inherent part of true transparency, and necessary to assure good management of natural resources. It said that companies’ country-by-country reporting should include transfers to Governments (direct and indirect), basic operating data and key elements of profitand loss accounts. This data should allow stakeholders to trace how value is shared and how funds flow between companies and governments. Both elements are necessary for good management of natural resources.” Transparency International also noted that the said companies, among others, should make public details of their subsidiaries, both fully and non-fully consolidated, including subsidiaries’ countries of incorporation and parent companies’ interests. It said that the same should hold for information on companies’ fields of operations, their interests and partners. The international watchdog said that all such information should be clearly stated and easily accessible on the companies’ websites. It said, too, that stakeholders should be able to easily trace the connections between diverse companies, the division of responsibilities and interests, and consequently the possible routes of financial flows. Transparency International said, “We strongly encourage governments, including the US, to follow up and to broaden the spectrum of required country-by-country reporting. Companies should report not only on their governmental transfers but also on their operations and key profit and loss elements.” (The full report can be seen
by following this link: h t t p s : / / resourcegovernance.org/ sites/default/files/documents/prt_report_24_02.pdf) Security guard tied up, gunmen surrender after standoff with cops
police, and were handcuffed and shackled. Police in a statement said, a .38 revolver with six live matching rounds as well as a quantity of phone cards and a sum of cash were found in the suspects’ possession. FRIDAY
Three armed bandits were captured after quick action by police and residents of Grove, saw them being cornered in a Supermarket they had broken into. They had earlier tied up the security guard. Residents of Grove were awakened Wednesday morning around, 04:00 hrs, to calls for help from a security guard attached to the “Number One S u p e r m a r k e t ” . The supermarket is located at, 18 Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara. The bandits who accessed the premises from the Demerara River, tied up the 53-year-old security guard, with shoe laces and bag straps. They then placed him in a bathroom at the back of the building before proceeding to the top of the three storey building, via the back steps. As he recalled the incident, the guard said he could hear them breaking glass. He also heard hard clipping sounds like they were cutting the grills. The security guard said that after a few minutes of silence, he thought the bandits were gone, and he freed himself and went for help. Neighbours called the police, who responded promptly with ranks from Grove Police Station. Upon inspection of the premises, the police realized that the bandits were still in the building. They called for backup which saw more police patrols coming, and surrounding the business. After a 45-minute standoff between police and the bandits, the latter surrendered to
GECOM hiring policy concerns not about race, but fairness – Jagdeo Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo sought to walk away from the position held by his colleagues who shared the view that hiring practices at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) was racebased.“This is not about race. This is about a fair system of hiring professionals; not party people to run the thing,” Jagdeo told a Press Conference on Thursday. On Tuesday, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/ C) Commissioners of GECOM expressed the opinion that race played a role in Vishnu Persaud being voted down for the position of Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO). Commissioners Robeson Benn, Sase Gunraj and Bibi Shadick favoured Persaud, who held the post up to 2017 when his contract expired. Persaud was the topranked candidate for the job, but using the existing process at the Commission, GECOM Chairman, James Patterson, used his casting vote on the seven-member Commission against Persaud’s appointment. The number-two ranked applicant, an Afro-Guyanese, Roxanne Myers received support from Patterson and the Government Commissioners, Desmond Trotman, Vincent Alexander and Charles Corbin. Noting that the system is flawed, Jagdeo stated that two other candidates should
have received at least one point for attending the interview, but instead received zero from the Government Commissioners. “How is it that someone who has no experience in electoral matters comes out ahead of someone who has been in the system since 2001?” Jagdeo questioned. Jagdeo told reporters that based on social media posts, Myers was a supporter of the Coalition in the lead-up to the 2015 General Elections, encouraging persons on her Facebook page to vote for the party. The Opposition Leader presented the posts to the media, stating that it should disqualify Myers from being appointed DCEO. “It is not just about any Afro-Guyanese. If you’re Afro-Guyanese and PPP, they will give you zero. This is about fairness in the process. That is what I have argued constantly. I have said it openly,” Jagdeo stated. In this regard, Jagdeo expressed that it raises concerns about the credibility of the electoral process when the DCEO is a strident supporter of the APNU/AFC Coalition and was encouraging people to vote for the party in the lead-up to the 2015 General and Regional Elections. Natural Gas explosion rips Diamond backyard – Home owner was drilling well A natural gas explosion last evening at Lot 1200 4th Street, Section A Block X, Diamond, on the East Bank of Demerara, sent shock waves through the community, and many residents of 6th Avenue were in fear after repeated booming sounds reverberated from the premises Soownauth Gorakh, the (Continued on page 36)
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From page 35 home owner, who was reportedly having a well drilled in his backyard, was nowhere to be seen, when this publication arrived at the scene. Members of the Guyana Fire Service, Diamond Department were present, and were looking over to ensure the safety of nearby residents, since there was little they could do to contain the substances that were spewing from a large hole in the ground. The substances that were coming from the hole, reached tens of feet into the air — the yard in question was four feet under slush, a shed in the yard fell down after buckling under the pressure of the clay that had fallen back from above. The house in the yard and everything else was covered with mud; the concrete fence on the eastern section collapsed under the pressure of the accumulated slush that rapidly built up. Houses all around were covered in the substance, and a number of residents had gathered outside, after they heard the loud thunderous sounds. Mr Gorakh, who neighbours say has a water business in the Diamond area, had hired a contractor to drill a well in his yard – most likely in the hope of creating an independent source from the Guyana Water Inc. The plan obviously did not work out the way Mr Gorakh would have hoped, since the damage witnessed at the scene could be estimated in the millions. A number of residents could be heard complaining, since they were worried what the subsequent consequences could be. After the vibrations were felt, all the surrounding neighbours had vacated their houses, since this was a phenomenon many had never
witnessed in their lifetime. SATURDAY Giftland urges disclosures of concessions granted to MovieTowne The issue of concessions to foreign companies is again raising its head. In recent years, the debate has been raging, not only with the unlimited concessions, but also with the seeming lack of monitoring by the authorities to ensure there is no abuse. In one case, a Chinese investor in the logging industry, BaiShanLin, was accused of even selling some of the items the company was granted under duty free concessions. The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has been clamping down, checking minutely the concessions to ensure that investors comply. However, another dimension is being added. Local investors have been complaining bitterly of not being afforded the same opportunities. Miners especially have been adding their voices to the chorus of objections, pointing to the concessions granted to a few big companies. This past week, the private sector lent its support to the MovieTowne project, criticizing the delays in getting things done. MovieTowne’s main principal, Derek Chin, a Guyanaborn, who has built an empire in Trinidad and Tobago with several MovieTowne locations, since launching his first flagship complex in Port of Spain in the early 2000s, said that he was facing delays in even getting electricity to the Turkeyen complex which is under construction. He is hoping to open at
The slush-filled scene after last night’s natural gas explosion in Sixth Avenue (Travis Chase Photo) least the eight cinemas by August. Chin, during a tour, also disclosed that there had been delays at one time in getting his chairs and other equipment for the project, which is nearing up to US$40M. However, it is his disclosures of the concessions that has local businessman, Roy Beepat concerned. Beepat is the head of the Giftland Mall, located a short distance from the MovieTowne complex. The two facilities would be competing against each other. Not a bad thing, if there was a level playing field. Opened in mid 2015, shortly after the Coalition Government took office, Giftland has lifted the quality of family entertainment facilities in Guyana, bringing back cinemas and eating out and
The seized coke and marijuana
shopping in a big way. Yesterday, Beepat wanted to know what tax and other concessions the MovieTowne project attracted.His company received very little, and had to borrow heavily. In the end, the project cost almost US$24M. Beepat’s contentions would be that he enjoyed very little concessions. He battled for everything, and paid his taxes. He would now have to compete heavily against MovieTowne, which apparently received the full works. According to his letter yesterday in Kaieteur News, the businessman, who banked heavily on the project, said that Giftland has noted comments in the media by Chin, who is complaining about delays in processing his duty free concessions.
“I would be grateful to know what concessions and facilities were granted, including any reduced tariffs on electricity. We have requested the same from Go-Invest, who to date has not even acknowledged our request,” Beepat said in his letter. He noted that for the record, the previous Government, of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic granted concessions for the air condition units and also internal materials and equipment in the setup of the cinemas. “This did not extend to building materials, plumbing, steel, electrical, steel frames, equipment or anything else whatsoever. We are kindly requesting full disclosure and transparency for any concessions being granted to this similar business, including
any concessionary rates by GPL, brokered by the previous Government.” Beepat noted that at the end of the day, it would be extremely unfair to allow a foreign-based company to come to Guyana and compete advantageously, against a local one, especially in this economy, which is still adjusting to the new economic realities.“Minister Winston Jordan has repeatedly stated that all these concessions to foreign based companies should not be kept a secret. We call for transparency as outlined by the Honourable Minister.” MovieTowne is planning several franchises, including Hard Rock Café and Starbucks, among the other usual suspects.The facilities will boast eight cinemas, with more seating.
The accused leaving the court
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Fingerprints on a dead man’s ... From page 26 could not be his. He stated that his prints were taken by two different police ranks, who were acting on instructions from Detective Caesar.“I was so confused and foolish at the time, I allow them to take another set of fingerprints from me, the same day,”Roberts said that a policeman subsequently told him that his prints had matched the ones found at the crime scene at Robb Street. “I tell he that he got to be lying, because I ain’t know nothing about Robb Street.” In summing up for the jury, the defence pointed to the fact that there were no signs of forced entry to the building in which the elderly businessman was murdered. The attorney noted too, that the only persons with access to the premises were the elderly man, his son and grandson. It was pointed out that the son and grandson were never considered suspects to the crime nor were they questioned by the police regarding their whereabouts on the night of the murder.The defence also noted that the victim’s son, Leonard Rachpaul and grandson Vincent, had testified that a Transport (Deed of Title) was among the items stolen
from the Robb Street premises. But in her arguments, State Prosecutor Narissa Leander said that the fingerprints found at the scene could not have belonged to anyone other than the accused. She said that the fact that Roberts’ fingerprints matched the ones found on the inside of a safe at the crime scene, indisputably linked him to the murder. She had urged the jury to use their commonsense and good judgment, when reviewing evidence of the case. FREED…AND THE MYSTERY REMAINS On October 29, 2015, after some hours of deliberation, a mixed jury found Orin Kevin Roberts not guilty of murder. Roberts immediately thanked the judge and jurors, and also expressed his gratitude to his attorney.But who exactly is the Robb Street strangler? Some apparently have other theories. Leonard Rachpaul himself told me that there are some who have suggested that the killer is in fact someone who was close to his
father. He refuted this suggestion.”You hear (people say) that is an ‘inside job’. But I tell you from the bottom of my heart that these things (his father’s assets) are not left for me.” The slain man’s wife and other children are overseas.After the murder, Leonard Rachpaul continued to run his father’s drug store. He told me that he purchased more dogs and raised the concrete fence that he believes that the intruders scaled before attacking his father. And he said he continued to live in dread that the men who snuffed out his father’s life may return. If you have any information about this or any other unusual case, please contact Kaieteur News by letter or telephone at our Lot 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown offices. Our numbers are 2258465, 22-58473 and 2258458. You need not disclose your identity. You can also contact Michael Jordan at his email a d d r e s s mjdragon@hotmail.com, or kamarangnight@gmail.com
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Catherine Zeta-Jones Not Sorry for Being Pretty, Rich and in Love At 48 years old, Catherine Zeta-Jones knows who she is—and she’s not apologizing for it.In a wide-ranging interview with The Mirror, the Academy Award winner looks back on her career and explain how she’s come into her own. “One thing I’m not is humble anymore. I’m sick of being humble. I really am. ‘So sorry I’m rich. So sorry I’m married to a movie star. So sorry I’m not so bad looking.’ No sorrys. Enough. All that is important to me now is my work,” she says. “That’s what I love and the rest of my life is a joy because I’ve got two beautiful kids and a healthy, happy husband. It’s all good, and I’m not going to be humble for that either.”Zeta-Jones notes she comes from a working-class family. “And I worked to get to where I am,” she says. “And for many years all of us are victims of the fact that we’ve all got so humble. If you were a sports star and won an award you would go, ‘S—t! Yeah, that was the best
work I’ve ever done! I rocked!’ Whereas actors are like, ‘Oh, I’m so sorry and thanks. Can I say thanks?’” For a time, Zeta-Jones lost her passion for making movies. But today, she’s ready to get back into the game. “What shaped me as an actor, more than anything, is getting older. I genuinely lost my mojo. I didn’t like it very much anymore. I was on a successful path, there wasn’t any crisis or anything. And I re-
membered how I started off so young and became successful, because I was fearless,” she says. “There was no questioning, wondering what people would think. Somewhere along the middle I got frightened again and I started to question myself as an actor.” As she developed an identity outside of acting, she realized, “I’m not scared anymore.”Zeta-Jones hopes her two children with Michael Douglas—both of whom are aspiring actors—will approach their careers with similar bravery and optimism. “I am so proud. It’s not about fame for them. They’ve been brought up around famous people. They know what that is like. They want the craft because that’s what they love. And it gives me such pride that they get it. They understand that this is not a quick fix. They’re so good,” she says. “I can’t wait for you all to see which way they’re going to go, because they’re going to go somewhere, I’m t e l l i n g you.”www.eonline.com.
Ne-Yo and Crystal Smith Welcome Son Roman Alexander-Raj Congratulations are in order!Crystal Smith has given birth to her second son, Roman Alexander-Raj Smith, with husband Ne-Yo, she announced on Instagram today. “Born 6-14-18 at 2:11 pm. 6pd and 15 ounces. 19 inches long,” she wrote. “He’s so BEAUTIFUL.” Ne-Yo (real name: Shaffer Chimere Smith) and Crystal welcomed their first child together, son Shaffer Chimere Smith Jr., in May 2016, just one month after they got married in L.A. They are also parents to son Mason Evan and daughter Madilyn Grace, from Ne-Yo’s previous relationship. While the happy couple are thrilled to welcome their son, they hinted to E! News back in October that they would try again for a baby
girl.“If it’s a girl then the shop is closed but if it’s a boy then we have to do it again!” Crystal said. “I’ve been dreaming of the same little girl since I was a little girl and we won’t stop until we get her!” The Platinum Life star had been hinting on social media that her baby would be arriving soon.
Overnight, Crystal posted a video to her Instagram Story at St. John Labor and Delivery with the caption “Always by my side,” all but confirming that she was in labor at St. John’s Riverside Hospital in Yonkers, N.Y. Congratulations again to the happy family! www.eonline.com
The Poetry of Christena Williams (From page 42) ecstasy there is an underlying futility, a predictable foreboding that that we find in Piercing Heart: In darkness when the candle in the wind was out I felt no one would recognize all my scars That I try to hide... Black Gold eventually trails off, bedazzled, we have been.
Williams proves her salt as fine poet with enviable range and depth. Uncompromising she delivers her philosophy: Providence drives a hard bargain. So here we are, burdened. But within us is a creative resource that saves us from the jaws of life. That much, Williams assures us. F e e d b a c k :
glenvilleashby@gmail .com or follow him on Twitter @glenvilleashby Black Gold by Christena A V Williams ISBN - 13: 9781987616514 Copyright 2018 Christena A V Williams Publisher: Christens A V Williams Available at Amazon Ratings: Highly recommended
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High Court rules Magistrate to continue hearing extradition proceedings for US murder suspect The High Court has invested Principal Magistrate Sherlock Isaacs-Marcus with the authority to continue hearing extradition
proceedings for Troy Thomas, who is wanted in the US for second degree murder, and criminal possession of a weapon. Thomas had been
facing extradition proceedings before the said Magistrate. This was done by a ruling handed down by Justice Jo-
Ann Barlow yesterday at the High Court in Georgetown. The decision saw the dismissal of a Fixed Date Application (FDA) filed by
lawyers for the murder suspect which sought to challenge the extradition proceedings. The ruling was heavily based on a 1999 Court of Appeal decision handed down by former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Mr. Cecil Kennard, in the case of King Vs Sobers. After reviewing that case in totality the then Chancellor, among other things, ruled, “In view of what I have been saying, I find that the appellant can be properly extradited for the offences he is wanted in the USA. “In the circumstances, I must dismiss the appeal and affirm the order of the trial judge. In the meantime, the appellant is to remain in custody pending a decision by the Minister of Home Affairs under the provisions of section 26 of the Fugitive Offenders Act 1988 as to his being extradited to the USA.” “The declaration sought by the applicant is refused. The application is dismissed. The authority to proceed having been legality given, the magistrate is free to proceed with the committal proceedings that were commenced in this matter,” Justice Barlow affirmed. The High Court Judge also ordered Thomas to pay cost in the sum of $150,000 to the State, which was represented by Solicitor General Kim Kyte-Thomas and Assistant Solicitor General Beverly BishopCheddie. In light of the decision, Thomas is due back in court on June 26, when extradition proceedings will continue. Minutes after the ruling, Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes who appeared on behalf of the murder suspect, in association with Attorneys-at-Law Bernard DaSilva and Darren Wade, requested of the Judge to grant a stay in relation to the extradition proceedings before the Magistrate, to facilitate an appeal to the Court of Appeal. Hughes told the court that he wants the Appeal Court to review two meritorious points in the judge’s ruling. But the Solicitor General objected to the stay being granted based on the said ruling by 1999 Court of Appeal ruling by the former Chancellor. The Solicitor General argued that Hughes’s request is without merit. Kyte argued that with Thomas being a remand prisoner, State resources are being utilized on him, adding that, there is a heavy backlog of cases in the Magistracy. Justice Barlow declined to grant the stay citing that it
US murder suspect: Troy Thomas has no merit. She added that lawyers for the murder suspect can file whatever action they wish, before the matter comes up again before the Magistrate. Thomas, of South Ozone Park, Queens, New York, was captured at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown on March 14, last. He is wanted by US law enforcement in relation to the December 11, 2011 murder of 20-year-old Keith Frank which occurred in Richmond Hill, New York. Since 2012, US police had issued a wanted bulletin for the murder suspect, a Guyana native. Frank, a father of one, who moved from Guyana to the US when he was 12 was shot and killed outside a Richmond Hill, New York party where he had run into some other men with whom he had an ongoing “beef.” It was reported that Thomas fled to Canada hours after allegedly committing the crime. Consequently, the Government of the US made a request to the Government of Guyana for the extradition of Troy Thomas to face criminal charges in that country. Pursuant to that request, Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, issued an order to carry on with the extradition in accordance with the Fugitive Offenders Act of 1988. On January 19, Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge, issued a certificate indicating and confirming the existence of an agreement made between the United Kingdom and the United States as it relates to the extradition of fugitive offenders. That certificate indicates that the arrangement extends to, and remains enforced in Guyana. A warrant for the arrest of Thomas was issued on January 23, by Magistrate Marcus-Isaacs, the then acting Chief Magistrate. Police then arrested Thomas on March 14. Continued on page 67
Sunday June 17, 2018
Kaieteur News
STANDARDS IN FOCUS
GNBS on-board with Consultancy to Enhance Local Furniture Industry For a number of years, the GNBS has been monitoring the labelling of furniture manufactured locally under its Standards Compliance Programme. Monitoring is being done to ensure compliance with the established National Labelling Standard. However, although furniture offered for sale are being labelled, there continues to be complaints regarding quality. This is the main reason why the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) advocated for a Consultancy under the current National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) Project to offer training and support to Inspectors, Educators of Technical Institutions and Local manufacturers themselves. Monitoring for quality according to the requirements outlined in the GYS 499:2013 – Standard Specification for Wooden Furniture and the GYS 509:2013 – Specification for indigenous furniture, is necessary. However, the lack of training for Officers of the GNBS on the requirements of these standards has hindered monitoring and the provision of technical assistance and guidance to local manufacturers. Previous consultancies, for many reasons, have failed to transform the industry to one that is fully focused on quality and customer satisfaction. Hence, the need for a well-crafted training and consultancy programme to urgently streamline the industry was created. Such a programme, must ensure that wooden furniture are manufactured according to the requirements of established quality standards and are properly labelled, to provide guidance to consumers. The ongoing consultancy is expected to create a comprehensive action plan to be implemented by the GNBS to ensure the development and sustainability of the industry; one that produces quality pieces of furniture for sale locally, regionally and internationally. Under the consultancy, a
training specialist in Wooden Furniture Manufacturing was recruited to provide strategic advice, technical support and capacity development to the staff of the GNBS as well as furniture manufacturers in Guyana. The specific objectives of the consultancy include the development of a database of local furniture manufacturers, the identification and analysis of the available training options that will improve the productivity and competitiveness of furniture manufacturers, and the promotion of export potential and/or expansion of the local markets. The ongoing consultancy has two phases. Phase one includes the review the GNBS Standards Compliance Programme to identify recommendations for improvement, conduct of technical training (theoretical and practical) for GNBS Officers on the applicable standards, and facilitate the provision of technical assistance to manufacturers through visits to their establishments. Meanwhile phase two would involve Coach GNBS Officers to provide technical assistance to manufacturers based on the standards, in order to ensure effectiveness and sustainability of the Programme. It will also monitor the performance of Officers and provide additional training where necessary. Promotion and awareness are also included in phase two of the consultancy. The support of both phases of this furniture consultancy is hinged greatly on the cooperation and support of local manufacturers. The GNBS is encouraging manufacturers to recognise the benefits that can be accrued from the support offered to them and to begin to conform to the requirements of the furniture standards to consistently produce quality. For further information, please contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0069, 219-0066 or visit the GNBS website: www.gnbsgy.org
High Court rules Magistrate... From page 66 Committal proceeding for the extradition commenced on March 3, before the said Magistrate. The matter was then adjourned by the Magistrate. However, on April 6, Lawyers Thomas, Nigel Hughes, Bernard DaSilva and Darren Wade, moved to the High Court to challenge the extradition committal on several grounds. It was for the court to consider whether there is an applicable arrangement between the United Kingdom and Guyana. In her ruling, the High Court Judge noted that Minister Greenidge confirmed the existence of this arrangement which remains enforced in Guyana. According to the Judge, since 1988, after the repeal of those applied Acts, several requests were sent to Guyana for the extradition of persons from Guyana to the United States. Referencing the cases of Barry Dataram, Terrence Sugrim and Steven King, and one other, the Judge said, “These all show that between the parties there still exists an arrangement which sees proceedings taking place for the extradition of a citizen or
person by a requesting State.” Moving on to examining whether he could be extradited, lawyers for Thomas had argued that the extradition treaty between the United Kingdom and the United States has no clause which prevents the reextradition of a requested persons to a third state by a requesting state. They also argued that the detention of Thomas and any proceedings for extradition are unlawful and in breach of his constitutional rights, adding that, Section 139 of the Constitution of Guyana gives him protection from extradition. Noting that this case is similar to an application brought by Barry Dataram, Justice Barlow revealed that the then Justice Small, as he then was, ruled there was no implied term permitting the extradition of a fugitive to a third state. According to the Judge, the ruling of Justice Small stood as a ground on what had been accepted by the Court of Appeal, as an interpretation to be given to the 1931 extradition treaty between the United
Kingdom and the United States. She said, “This court makes bold to say that had an appeal been possible to the Court of Appeal, decision in the Barry Dataram matter would not have stood the test of time.” Whether there is an existing extradition treaty between Guyana and the United Kingdom was another subject that had to be considered by the court. Pointing out that this issue has engaged the courts of Guyana and has been answered in the affirmative on several occasions, the Judge cited cases from the West Indian Law Reports. According to Justice Barlow, in one of those cases, the presiding Judge posited that the incorporation of the treaty within the laws of Guyana was done and completed before the Fugitive Offenders Act of 1988. She continued that the Judge opined that nothing repealed by the Fugitive Offenders Act of 1988 could have affected that which was already done under those applied Acts which were repealed.
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What you should know about Sickle Cell trait BY ROBERT FRASER R.N, B.S World Sickle Cell Day would be observed this week: What is Sickle Cell Trait? Sickle Cell Trait (SCT) is not a disease, but having it means that a person has inherited the Sickle Cell gene from one of his or her parents. People with Sickle Cell Trait usually do not have any of the symptoms of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and live a normal life with a life expectancy similar to that of the general population. An individual with Sickle Cell Trait is a person of interest in Sickle Cell research. This
person is a trait ‘Carrier’ and can pass it on to his or her children. People who have inherited one sickle gene and one normal gene have Sickle Cell Trait (SCT). Sickle Cell Trait NEVER leads to Sickle Cell Disease and does not normally need treatment. What is Sickle Cell Disease? Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic condition that is present at birth. In Sickle Cell Disease, the red blood cells become hard and sticky with an appearance of a C-Shaped farm tool called a ‘Sickle.’ The Sickle Cells die early, which cause a constant shortage of red blood cells. Also, when they travel through small blood vessels,
“The cure for poverty is not money but knowledge” – Sir Arthur Lewis (West Indian Nobel Laureate)
they get stuck and clog the blood flow. This can cause pain and other serious problems. Sickle Cell Disease is inherited when a child receives two Sickle Cell genes – one from each parent. A person with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) can pass the disease or SCT on to his or her children. Who is affected by Sickle Cell Trait? Sickle Cell Trait affects one in two blacks in the United States. · SCT is most common among blacks, but can be found among people whose ancestors come from sub-Saharan Africa; the Western Hemisphere (South America, the Caribbean and Central America); Saudi Arabia; India and the Mediterranean countries such as Turkey, Greece and Italy. · Approximately three million people living in the United States have SCT and many are
unaware of their status. What are the chances that a baby will have Sickle Cell Trait? · If both parents have SCT, there is a 50% (or 1 in 2) chance that the child also will have SCT if the child inherits the Sickle Cell gene from one of the parents. Such children will not have symptoms of SCD, but they can pass the SCT on to their children. · If both parents have SCT, there is a 25% (or 1 in 4) chance that the child will have Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). · There is the 25% (or 1 in 4) chance that the child will not have SCT or SCD. · If one parent has SCT, there is a 50% (or 1 in 2) chance that the child will NOT have SCT. · This is also important to note, that if one Continued on page 72
B Division Police boost tremendous success in fight against crime MURDER, ROBBERY DOWN, CRIME DECREASE BY 41% The police in B Division (Berbice) led by Assistant Commissioner Lyndon Alves are boasting of tremendous success in their fight against crime and other social ills affecting society at large. Alves, in company of other senior officers of the division including Deputy Commander Superintendent Wayne De Harte spoke to the media recently in his office at the B Division Headquarters at Strand and Coburg (Forbes Burnham) Street, in New Amsterdam Berbice. There were significant reductions for most of the offences for 2018 compared with figures for 2017 with a 41% decreased in serious crimes for the period January to May 2018 in comparison to 2017. While there was a decrease in the number of cases for 2018 there was a 65% clear up rate in comparison to 44% for 2017. The figures released showed that there has been a 55% decrease in the number of murders from nine to four. There were two robberies for the period under review for 2017 as against one so far for 2018. In fact, there were increases in only two crimes.
There were 176 cases of rape for last year. The number increased to 26 for 2018 while Robbery under arms where a gun was used, stood at 13 in 2017. This year the figure stands at 15. For the offence of Robbery under Arms using other implement the figure dipped from 12 to four, Robbery with Violence declined from nine to five. Break and enter and larceny had the biggest decrease—64%. While there were 84 for the same period in 2017, the figure reduced drastically to 30 this year. Larceny from the person also showed significant decrease with a 60% drop in the crime from five to two. Burglary stood at seven for last year as against six this year. There has been no case of kidnapping and robbery with aggravation According to Commander Alves the reduction in crime has been attributed to the hard work of his ranks and cooperation from members of the public. He was loud in praise for the support that he and his ranks have been receiving from the members of the public. The timely information
Divisional Commander of Police B Divdision Assistant Commissioner Lyndon Alves and feedback have enabled them to intercept or thwart many misdemeanors by unsavory characters. Alves credited this to their increase vehicular patrol, and increase in numbers. He also mentioned the increase confidence that the members of the public including the business community has with the Police Force. There have been increased patrols using vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and foot. There were also roadblocks throughout the county. The police maintained a permanent presence at the Berbice River Bridge junction.
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WANT
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK;Guyanapassport application. G r a p h i c s design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6004212: We create A/works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Eagle’s: Re-gas –low prices, washing machine repairs, gas stove, plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/646-0966 Installations, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc call Nick 627-3206, 630-1600 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158
FOR SALE Foreign used commercial appliance Fry master gas deep fryer, Salamander broiler & grill, gas grill. #220-1716
2 & 3 bedroom fully furnished luxury apartments short and long term rental Tel# 6642143,691-1432,666-7028
Foreign used commercial chowmein making machine can also do dough sheeter for pastries, pizza #220-1716
House to rent: Upper flat 3 bedroom 696 Section ‘C’ Block ‘Y’ Grove. East Bank Demerara. Tel#233-0644
Yamaha Outboard 200, 650k 8, 9.8, and 4HP, control box for 60k all foreign use. Tel# 672-5830 Texan Rams. Call: 622-3197
Parfaite Harmonie. $1.3M Farm (East Bank) $2.5M Schnoord $2.2M Herstelling $4.5M & $1.8M Uivlugt $2.2M Tel#656-1345 2 acres of title land situated @ 1st St Garden of Eden EBD $6.5M Neg. Call Terrence #638-7836. email: Latchmanrich@gmail.com Excellent offer land, suitable for number of purposes situated in New Amsterdam (1000ft x 211ft) Contact Bobby Realty #679-2497 2 storey concrete house and land @ No 44 Village measuring 62ft by 1 mile. Contact Bobby Realty #6792497
VEHICLE FOR SALE One enclosed canter 3 ton wide base, $1.8M Good condition #604-0204/2640041
One Leyland DAF 65 for sale. Contact #674-6386
2 bedrooms furnished Apt Providence, 3 bedroom selfcontain upstairs house Diamond, furnished utility bills included. Tel#690-3639, 682-6238
LAND FOR SALE
Track AB CD situated at Bengal Corentyne. Contact Bobby Realty #679-2497
2 Hino 30 seater bus in excellent condition. Contact Bobby Realty. #679-2497
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620
TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)
Spacious 2 bedroom apartment to rent. Location Herstelling EBD Contact # 601-0223 Air conditioned room $3000 daily Fully furnished apartments $6000 daily. Contact# 223-0994/678-5827 2 bedroom semi furnished apartment located in Charlestown, Lyng Street, fully secured. Interested persons only #601-1585/6746394
Herbal remedies: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, enlarged prostate, Kidney & Gall stones etc. Call Sparman #676-5924
FOR SALE/RENT 3 bedroom colonial houseVersailles Public road opp Aracari Resort. Land 105x80/ House 55x45. Call: 660-3415/ 225-8427
Buying non-working appliances such as refrigerator, treadmill, washing machine. Whatsapp pic #661-5099 Nigel’s Taxi Service is looking for contract cars and drivers. Contact # 699-6152/227-4885 Arc/Acetylene welder, experience in steel fabrication, grill work making and installing an asset. Tel# 227-1830 Wanted Female Dispatchers Classic Ride Taxi Services Nandy Park EBD. Tel#2335227/682-1616 1 male to assemble baby stuff, beds, strollers etc. 1 Domestic, 1 Salesgirl. Contact#683-3360 Private and Hire car drivers. #225-9223/225-3234
One (1) Manager to work at Hotel/Club on the Essequibo Coast. Contact# 226-9768/ 227-7528
3 story commercial building,120ftX60ft Building 62ftX30ft Location- Lot 1486, Plot B Herstelling, EBD, reduced price Contact: 6093777/686-0522
Cook between 40 to 50 yrs living in Georgetown. Police clearance required. Call: 6238765 between hours of 7pm to 10pm
East St near Georgetown Hospital 2 storeyed wooden back building which contains 2 apartments $15M #227-1988 Whatsapp 6236431
Property for sale at 87 Albert St, Albertown, Price $32.5 Million. Tele#669-8101
HEALTH
Female workers wanted just finish writing CXC exam 2018. Call: 622-5518
Lot 15 Public road #2 Village. West Coast Berbice. 49ft by 10,314ft. $18M. Contact:6487109/686-4818
Toyota Hilux Surf YN130 Excellent condition. Price $1.9M Neg Tel# 612-2258
Uniforms, evening wear etc professionally sewn. Also classes for beginnersAdvance Levels. Call: 6766312
Drivers, Porters, Office clerk. Apply to Lot 10 Vlissengen Rd Survival Wholesale Depot
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Toyota Fielder wagon excellent condition. Price $1.250 Neg Tel#612-2258
Toyota Hiace 2 RZ, Automotive long base, Excellent condition. Price $1.1M Tel# 612-2258
1 Air compressor 5HP 3 Phase 230/220 volts. Call: 628-1486/ 698-1134.
Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665
One business property for sale, price neg. Contact: 6911035 (407)924-6785
DRESS MAKING
WANTED Diamond/Grove EBD truck driver wanted. Call: 677-6620/ 216-1043
3 storey buliding, Queenstown, Land size 35x125. Asking price $75 Million. Call: 672-1920 2 storey house located High & Hadfield St land size 35x130. Asking price $35 Million Call: 672-1920 3 storey buliding Church St. Asking price $160 Million. Call: 672-1920
Part time yardman, police clearance required. Call: 6238765 between hours of 7pm to 10pm
VACANCY
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL:225-7126/ 226-3693DOLLYSAUTORENTAL @YAHOO.COM/ WWW.D OLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM
CJ’s Brokerage ServicesLicensed Customs House Broker, send application to cassandrakj@hotmail.com or call #644-3628
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL:643-5122/ 6 5 6 - 0 0 8 7 , ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM
Cook for interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020 AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 Experienced salesgirls with SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD CXC qualifications & 2 yrs FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY experience. Apply @ OUTINGS, CHEAPEST Christine’s Variety, Lombard RATE . Call: 698-7807 St. Contact: 227-8529 WING’S CAR & PICKUP Data Entry/ Accounts clerk RENTAL: LOW DOWN Tel# 616-5595. Email: PAYMENT, CHEAP Sales@tradelinc.com RATES,SPECIAL OFFERS! FULL TIME/PART TIME . CALL: 690-6494 WAITER/WAITRESS TO WORK AT AAGMAN RESTAURANT SHERIFF STREET. CALL: 219-0161/ 219-0158 FULL TIME/PART TIME HOUSEKEEPING/ DOMESTIC TO WORK AT AAGMAN RESTAURANT. CALL: 219-0158/219-0161 Maid for East Bank area to cook and clean #614-4358 One experienced legal computer clerk. Call: 624-7087/ 226-4283/258-0213/ email: husainsaphier@yahoo.com Vacancy for cleaners, apply @ 112 3rd & Albert St, Albertown, must be willing to work shift. Tel# 225-6255 Female security officers wanted for security company. Call: 672-1920 Between 9am4pm For Interior location logging truck driver, Skidder operator, Tree feller. #218-3399 Female supervisor 35-55, male desks staff 30-48 233 South road, Lacytown. Tel#225-0198. Experience waiter/waitress, chef/assistant cook. Call us 225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff Street.
EDUCATION Computer classes for adults $15,000 for completed course located @ Durban St. Tel#615-3192 Kids Tech Computer class $15,000 for course completed located @ Durban St. Tel#615-3192 Private Customs Brokerage Certificate Training Course starts mid July 2018, register now & save. Call: 694-8322/ 690-4225
CAR RENTAL
Jos-el Educational Institute needs trained & experienced teachers for Nursery, Primary, Secondary departments. Call: 226-7868/226-7794
TO LET 1 bedroom apartment to rent with electricity & all water facility at Independence Boulevard. Single/couple needed. Call: 613-0296 (1) bedroom apartment, living room and bathroom 294 Fourth field, Cummings Lodge. Call:222-0401, preferably UG students Three bedroom bottom flat in South Riumveldt Gardens. Eighty thousand per month. Call: 618-8436
TO LET Furnished two bedroom, air conditioned bottom flat with modern facilities in South Riumveldt Gardens. Call: 6188436
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Moraikobai Village Council sworn in Toshao Colin Adrian re-elected The councillors taking their oath of office.
Toshao Colin Adrian and Returning Officer, Sandie Ross during the swearing-in ceremony
The new Moraikobai Village Council, Mahaicony River, Region Five, was sworn in on June 14.
The Oath of Office was administered by Returning Officer, Sandie Ross, in the presence of Regional Execu-
tive Officer, Ovid Morrison. The elected council which will serve for the next three years consists of Toshao,
Colin Adrian, and Councillors Brian Joseph, Rickford Sutherland, Shevon Lambert, Oniel Delivery, Mary Joseph, Orlando Jacob, Kenneth Clinton, Raymond Clinton, Bernita France, Indranie John, Garfield John and Remington Adrian. Elections for the toshao and councillors for the Moraikobai Village Council were held on June
8, at the Moraikobai Primary School. Colin Adrian and former Toshao and National Toshaos Council (NTC) Chairman, Derrick John, competed for the position village leader, while 21 candidates contested for the positions of councillors. Adrian, who won by 158 votes, will serve as Toshao for the second term. His rival, John secured 126 votes. Elections for toshaos and councillors in 178 Indigenous villages across the ten Administrative Regions in Guyana
came to an end on Friday. Some 78 women were elected toshaos and councillors during this round of elections. Sharmain Rambajue in Baramita, Region One; and Beverley Clenkian in Pakuri, Region Four are just two of the female elected toshaos for the first time. Young men are also taking up similar responsibilities. Twenty-one-year-old Michael Thomas of Aishalton Village, South Rupununi, Region Nine is one of the youngest Toshaos to have been elected.
Sunday June 17, 2018
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Lindo Creek massacre…
Relatives plan memorial, walk, helium balloons, for 10-yr anniversary
Relatives of the Lindo Creek victims
The eight men who were slaughtered and burned.
F
amilies and friends of the eight miners who were slaughtered and burnt at Lindo Creek, Berbice River, almost 10 years ago, are preparing this week to pay homage. According to Onica Butts, wife of the late Dax Arokium; Natasha, a sister, and Kristia, a close friend,
whose uncle Lancelot Lee, also died, June 21 would mark 10 years since the shocking incident ripped several families apart and left burning questions over official explanations. On Wednesday, between 14:00hrs and 16:00hrs, a memorial service will be held at the Brickdam Cathedral. The next day, on June 21,
the families and friends of the eight miners killed are gathering at Square of the Revolution for 10:00hrs. About 10:30hrs, a procession will then leave for the Le Repentir cemetery for the laying of wreaths. According to the women, they will also be releasing helium balloons, as part of the ceremony.On June 21, 2008,
the unidentified remains, including feet, bones, skulls and other body parts, of Nigel Torres, Bunny Harry, Clifton Wong, Dax Arokium, his uncle Cedric, Compton Speirs, Horace Drakes and Lancelot Lee were discovered in their mining camp at Lindo Creek, Berbice River. That date is close to the birthday of Jackie Arokium,
who lost her son Dax and her brother in law Cedric, in that mayhem which to date is still being considered one of the major mysteries of the crime wave.An emotional inquiry was held recently but the report on the findings is still to be made public. For the police, the case died with the notorious gang leader Rondell ‘Fineman’ Rawlins who along with members of his organization was blamed for the gruesome killings.
They say their claims are being supported by the evidence of an eyewitness to the crime, who happened to be a member of the same notorious gang which had its roots in Buxton and Agricola. However, there were accusations also that there were army involvement in the killings. The case shocked Guyana and would have followed the Lusignan and Bartica massacre earlier the same year.
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What you should know about Sickle Cell ... Triple ‘C’ Consultancy is ... From page 68 parent has the Disease (SCD/ SS) and the other parent is free from Sickle Cell (AA), the child will definitely get the Sickle Cell Trait (SCT). I invite readers to pay special attention to the ‘Likelihood of an Offspring’s Genotype.’ Since a child inherits one gene from each parent you have to multiply the probabilities: The outcomes of all the different possible matings are most conveniently presented as a table. How will a person know if he or she has Sickle Cell Trait? A simple blood test can be done to find out if someone has SCT.
· Testing can be done at the hospitals if the equipment is available · A small sample of blood is taken from the finger (a ‘needle prick’) and evaluated in the laboratory. · If the results revealed that someone has SCT, it is important that he or she know what SCT is, how it can affect him or her and if and how SCD runs in a person’s family. The best way to find out if and how SCD runs in the family, is for the person to see a genetic counselor. These professionals have experience with genetic blood disorders. The genetic counselor will look at the person’s family history and discuss with him or her, what
is known about SCD in the person’s family. It is strongly advised that a person with SCD learn all he or she can about this disease before deciding to have children. The author of this presentation is a graduate from the New Amsterdam School of Nursing and has practiced nursing in the NewYork area clinical and administrative areas in reputable teaching institutions. He is also involved in an ongoing research in Sickle Cell Anemia in families. The aim of this is to dispel ignorance and promote knowledge. The ultimate goal is to prevent Sickle Cell ailment (SCD) in
generations yet unborn (this can be achieved through education). He also conducts in-service education for nurses and teachers (high schools) in Regions Five (5) and Six (6) annually.The purpose for involving the latter group (high school teachers) in this discussion is for them to impart this important Health Knowledge/Information to the seniors (Graduate students). In so doing, the teachers will be reminding the students that they are now of age when they could become parents and would be incumbent for them to understand how Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is inherited.
From page 15 Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs). He said, “Women, especially those who are supporting their families, and youths are being targeted by TCC. We want to not only help the developed businesses, but also support SMEs by exploring the acceleration of equitable agricultural expansion and by also using more innovative approaches. “TCC’s philosophy is based on the belief that it is possible to galvanize whole communities through social mobilization, and to create wealth and sustainable food security through social entrepreneurship training and by identifying local resources
the population can add value to in an environmentally sustainable way.” The local entrepreneur added that TCC’s tools and methods are to a large extent based on process-oriented ideas and research within agriculture. “So we are talking about soil improvement techniques for increased yields and crop diversification and so on, as well as renewable energy, natural resource management and to provide services to communities by j ointly pilot enterprise ideas with community members, providing training in agriculture, entrepreneurship and social mobilization,” he said.
Danger lessens following Diamond eruption From page 12 who provided food, clothing and shelter. The Ministry Public of Infrastructure (MOPI) in a statement yesterday said, “(MOPI) has commenced the clean-up exercise at the residence at Fifth and Sixth Avenue, Diamond, East Bank Demerara, where a resident of the community had dug a well, resulting in an eruption of mud, water, methane gas and damage to several homes in the area. The clean-up works, which are expected to last for approximately two days are being undertaken in an effort to give access to the Guyana and Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) teams, who will be working to recap the well. Lieutenant Latchman
Persaud of the National Emergency Operations System, Civil Defence Commission (CDC), who is overseeing the clean-up efforts, said that it is expected that the recapping works can commence on Monday. These works are expected to last between two to three weeks. He noted that all materials have already been procured and are on the ground. Mitchell Prince, Senior Petroleum Analyst at the GGMC, said that the plan is to run two sizes of casings into the ground where the well has been dug. “It is the reverse of drilling a well. The hole is already there, it is now to put the casings in and seal it off. We are going to use 18-inch casings on the outside and 14inch diameter casings on the
Overview of the devastation caused. inside.” The gas detection within the area remains low and has been constrained within the property and as such, a safe zone has been established.
Meanwhile, Director General of the CDC, Lieutenant Colonel Craig, said that the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has agreed to assist the affected neighbours in their
clean-up efforts. The Commission is also reminding persons that permits must be obtained from the Hydro meteorological office to conduct such
drillings. “If you are drilling wells you must receive permits from Hydro-meteorological Office because you can have situations like this that threaten your life, your neighbours’ lives and other people around you. You have to be careful and follow the rules. If you don’t you are going to put people’s lives at jeopardy,” Colonel Craig said.”
Sunday June 17, 2018
Kaieteur News
Man to face third trial over 2008 murder
Rondell Bacchus, who is charged with the July 2008 murder of scrap metal dealer Alli Akbar, is expected to face a second re-trial in the ongoing Demerara assizes. His two other trials ended in a hung jury.. It is alleged that on July 24, 2008, Bacchus, formerly of Sophia, Greater Georgetown, murdered Alli, during the course or furtherance of a robbery. Based on reports, on the day of his demise, Alli withdrew about $2.1 million from a city bank and went with his wife to another city bank after which he proceeded to Brickdam to transact business with an auto dealer. Alli had parked and along with his wife exited the vehicle. It was then that two men rode up on a motorcycle and snatched the bag containing the money which his wife had. The men then rode away, but Alli gave chase. One of the bandits shot him in the chest. The injured man was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he eventually succumbed. In fact, at the commencing of the ongoing Demerara assizes, Bacchus, who was accompanied by his Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes, was arraigned before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the High Court in Georgetown. However, the commencement of his trial was deferred until a date convenient by the defence and prosecution. According to records, Bacchus was first tried for the offence in 2014, before Justice Navindra Singh. However, that trial ended in a hung jury. Consequently, Justice Singh ordered a retrial of Bacchus. The matter came up again in 2016 at the
MURDER ACCUSED: Rondel Bacchus Demerara assizes, this time, before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. The jurors in this trial were unable to arrive at a verdict causing the judge to order a retrial.
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Technology helps France to 2-1 win over... From page 76 quick enough in our transition from defence to attack and that favoured Australia.” E v e n P o g b a ’s g o a l might not have stood in the days before technology was brought into the game with the midfielder’s shot looping off the shin of Aziz Behich, hitting the crossbar and bouncing down inside the goal before coming back out. Referee Andres Cunha, though, simply checked the
goal-line monitor on his watch and pointed to the centre circle as Australia keeper Mat Ryan stood appealing with the ball in his hands. The Uruguayan official had earlier stood by the side of the pitch to watch the challenge by Josh Risdon on Griezmann on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) monitor and decided the Australia right back had brought the French striker down in the area.
Faye Joseph Father’s Day dominoes on today The Faye Joseph Father’s Day dominoes tournament is set to get underway at 14:00hrs today at Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt.
Entrance fee is $10,000 and $80,000 has been added to the prizes. All GNDA rules will be in effect and the tournament is open to all teams.
CONTROVERSIAL TECHNOLOGY Technology was never going to rid football of controversy, however, and Australia coach Bert van Marwijk was not alone in thinking that it was not a foul with Risdon making contact with the ball before Griezmann tumbled over his trailing foot. There was no doubting the quality of the approach play to Pogba’s goal, though, after he exchanged one-twos with two team mates to carve his way through the middle of the Australia defence. It was a rare moment of fluency from the French, however, with the much vaunted attack of Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele unable to create opportunities when pace alone was not enough to get past the wall of Australian defenders. The trio did do enough to
Sunday June 17, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Career and business matters are likely to be very much on your mind today, Aries. Perhaps a new opportunity has come your way TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Matters involving creativity, romance, and children could require considerable thought today, Taurus. Some exciting new options may be available to you and your loved ones. GEMINI(May 21–June 20) Matters involving the home could suddenly grow serious. This is a positive development, Gemini, but new possibilities could be opening up and force you to make a decision. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today you might consider entering into a business partnership with a relative or neighbor. This could show promise of success. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) The value of any investment you may have made in land, including your home, could come into your thoughts today. Whatever time and energy you've put into it is likely to pay off VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) A partnership of some kind, perhaps business, perhaps romantic, is likely to be on your mind today. You might want to seriously consider whether or not it has a future, and if it does, what to do next.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) A lot of serious matters are on your mind, perhaps involving plans for the future. It's likely that you'll want to stay home today and do some contemplating. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Contemplation is the word for today. At some point, you might receive a call from a friend wanting advice on a serious decision. Don't be surprised if you spend more time listening than advising SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Today much of your mental and possibly physical energy could be directed at career matters. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) The desire for personal and career advancement could cause you to consider furthering your education in some way, Capricorn. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Today you're apt to be a bit preoccupied, Aquarius. You might find yourself considering concepts that others think are strange and impractical. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today is likely to be a gratifying day, Pisces, but perhaps more serious than you'd planned. A longtime friend might call and want to get together. This person or another might want to discuss a possible business enterprise
ensure France had the better of the opening half but Australia had the best chance to score before the break when a deflection off Frenchman Corentin Tolisso from an Aaron Mooy free kick was well saved by Lloris. Deschamps’s France side will move on to their remaining Group C clashes against Denmark and Peru, who met later yesterday, with three points but plenty to do to justify their place among the pre-tournament favourites.Australia and their 10,000 gold-shirted fans will be disappointed that all their hard work counted for nothing as they seek to get out of the group stage for the second time in their fifth World Cup.
Over $3million... From page 80 Open and L-non winner events, which will all be over five furlongs, will attract first prizes of $160,000, $140,000 and $120,000 respectively. Entries for the Emancipation meet will close one week prior to the showdown on July 22nd. No late entries will be permitted and interested persons can contact Ivan Dipnarine (331-0316), Justice Cecil Kennard (623-7609 and 225-4818), Fazal Habibulla (657-7010), Dennis DeRoop (640-6396) or Campton Sancho on 602-1567.
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YBG/NSBF Regionals at CASH
St. Joseph, President’s College and Marian Academy win in Boys’ under-16 The final three matches in the boys’ under-16 division of Youth Basketball Guyana’s (YBG) National School Basketball Festival (NSBF) Georgetown zone concluded on Friday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) on Homestretch Avenue. In the winners’ row were St. Joseph High who defeated North Georgetown Secondary 22-20, while Marian Academy dunked Queens’ College 31-22 and President’s College Royals continued their winning ways with a 35-30 win over
Tutorial High School. The results will not affect the semi final fixtures in the division. Complete results North Georgetown Secondary 20 – 22 St. Joseph High (U16) Craig Harlequin – 14 points, 7 rebounds (North Georgetown) Shaquan Gill – 14 points, 11 rebounds, Shaqueem Wilson – 8 points (SJH) Queens College 22 – 31 Marian Academy (U16) Lugard Mohan – 14 points, 7 rebounds (QC)
Tyrese James – 14 points, 10 rebounds, Jaden Daziel – 8 points, 11 rebounds (Marian Acad.) Tutorial High School 30 – 35 President’s College (U16) Jaden Moses – 12 points, 8 rebounds, Aubrey Walton8 points, 9 rebounds (THS) Lamon Friday – 13 points, 17 rebounds, Gabriel Lim – 7 points, 13 rebounds (QC) The Tournament is sponsored by Edward B. Beharry and Company Ltd, Banks DIH LTD and the National Sports Commission.
Technology helps France to 2-1 win over Australia KAZAN, Russia (Reuters) - France needed the help of the first World Cup penalty awarded after a video review and a deflected Paul Pogba goal to get their World Cup campaign underway with a scrappy 2-1 win over Australia yesterday.Striker Antoine Griezmann lashed home the historic spot kick in the 58th minute but Australia hit back with a penalty of their own when Samuel Umtiti inexplicably
handled the ball in the box four minutes later. Socceroos skipper Mile Jedinak sent his French counterpart Hugo Lloris the wrong way from the spot to give Australia hope of forcing a draw at the Kazan Arena only for Pogba to grab the winner in the 81st minute. “The first match is always a big one and we’re very happy to have won today,” said France coach Didier Deschamps.“It was a difficult match, it was complicated and the Australian team were very good. We were not (Continued on page 75)
Kumara’s four-for keeps West Indies’ lead to 47 ESPNcricinfo - Second new ball in hand, Sri Lanka’s quicks blasted out the five final West Indies wickets for 59 runs, after tea. This means the hosts are only 47 runs ahead, when they had been placed to secure a much bigger lead when the second session ended. Not seen was the lowerorder defiance that built their big first-innings total at Trinidad. Instead, it was the Sri Lanka quicks’ hostility that defined this phase of play, even if the likes of Kemar Roach and Miguel Cummins resisted for 20 balls or more, though that was with a little luck. Lahiru Kumara, who had been the first to strike with the second new ball just before tea, shot out the two final wickets to finish with figures of 4 for 84. Suranga Lakmal was first to strike in the evening session, drawing Shane Dowrich’s edge soon after Dowrich had completed his fifty. An excellent seam-bowling spell from Kasun Rajitha then accounted for two more wickets. Devendra Bishoo was first caught at second slip, Rajitha moving the ball away from the left-hander. Jason Holder was out nicking behind four overs later. Roach and Cummins then saw out 5.1 overs of menacing bowling - much of it aimed at their bodies - and played plenty of shots, though they missed in the vast majority of occasions. A Kumara yorker would eventually remove Roach - that ball hitting him
in front of middle stump, and going on to clip leg. Just after West Indies reached 300, No. 11 Shannon Gabriel could not resist aswipe at a short Kumara delivery, and ended up only getting a thick top edge, which Dhananjaya de Silva ran back from first slip to reel in. Sri Lanka batted out just about 40 minutes and were 34 for 1, trailing by just 13 runs. Shannon Gabriel took the wicket to fall, inducing a catch to wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich with a good delivery to Kusal Perera who made 20. Earlier, West Indies lost two wickets in the afternoon, but were driven forward by a 78-run fifth-wicket stand between Roston Chase and the in-form Shane Dowrich. By tea the hosts were only 12 runs runs behind with five wickets still in hand. Sri Lanka’s quicks, meanwhile, were unable to consistently extract the bounce and seam that had envenomed the West Indies fast bowlers on the first day. Spinner Akila Dananjaya was effective in patches, but was not yet finding the kind of turn on this surface that would see him become a more persistent menace. Smith had batted serenely in the first session, unflustered by a Sri Lanka side clearly showing their ire over the tampering allegations. But it was subtlety, rather than hostile fast bowling that brought about his dismissal. Dananjaya, bowling from around the wicket, delivered a straighter ball, deceiving the batsman who played for the stock offbreak.
He struck Smith in front of middle and off - the decision a straightforward one for the umpire. Smith finished with 61 off 174, which is an important score for him personally, as well as for the team. In his comeback Test in Trinidad, Smith had failed to impress. But it was the ChaseDowrich stand that defined the session. Having come together at 163 for 4, they played out a few tense, quiet overs before eventually settling into a scoring rhythm. They launched a concerted attack against Dananjaya, Dowrich launching him down the ground for six about midway through the afternoon, as he and his partner took 14 runs off that over, but otherwise they were happy to wait for Sri Lanka to bowl the hittable balls. Dowrich scored all around the field, moving to 44 off 82 balls by the end of the session. Chase preferred to make his runs square of the pitch. Tea was only 17 minutes away when Sri Lanka took the second new ball as soon as it was available, and Chase lost his wicket shortly after. Lahiru Kumara, who has been Sri Lanka’s best quick of the tour so far, bowled a length ball at the stumps, which Chase punched to the fielder at short midwicket, who took a sharp overhead catch. Chase’s contribution was 41 off 68 balls. Scores: West Indies 300 (Smith 61, Dowrich 55, Kumara 4-86, Rajitha 3-49) lead Sri Lanka 253 and 34 for 1 by 13 runs with 9 wickets remaining.
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Iceland hold Argentina to 1-1 draw as Messi misses penalty with Halldorson making another fantastic full-length save from substitute Cristian Pavon in the dying moments. Iceland’s players rushed to the stands to share their celebrations with their fans and now will have real belief that they can get out of Group
Argentina’s Javier Mascherano in action with Iceland’s Alfred Finnbogason. (Reuters Kai Pfaffenbach) MOSCOW (Reuters) Tiny Iceland made a stunning impact in their first-ever World Cup yesterday when they held 2014 runners-up Argentina to a pulsating 1-1 draw but Lionel Messi’s tournament began wretchedly as he saw his penalty saved by Hannes Halldorsson. Sergio Aguero gave the two-time world champions the lead after 19 minutes before Iceland, showing the same commitment and self-belief that saw them stun the soccer world with their run to the Euro 2016 quarter-finals, hit back four minutes later through Alfred Finnbogason. Argentina, playing in all-black and roared on by the vast majority of the crowd in a rocking Spartak Stadium, eventually took command, delivering wave after wave of attacks in the second half. Yet they actually created few clear chances either side of the poorly-struck 64thminute penalty by Messi, who drew a blank despite a remarkable 11 shots during the match. Iceland, by far the smallest country by population to
appear at a World Cup and inspired by their “thunderclapping” fans, ran and battled tirelessly as they wrote another unlikely chapter in their short but glorious major tournament history. “People say we celebrate when we won a point — wait and see how we celebrate when we’ve won a game,” said Iceland coach Heimir Hallgrimsson. Man of the match Halldorsson said he had done his homework on Messi, who has now missed four of his last seven penalties for club and country. “I looked at a lot of penalties by Messi and I also looked at how I had been behaving in previous penalties, so I tried to get into their mindset, how they would be thinking about me,” he said. Frustrated Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli tried to remain upbeat. “We need to be strong as a group, believe in ourselves and know we have all the tools to beat anybody,” he said. COMMITMENT Iceland signaled their intent from the kick off, sending seven men charging into
SUNDAY, JUNE 17 Fixtures: Costa Rica vs. Serbia Germany vs. Mexico Brazil vs. Switzerland
8 a.m. ET 11 a.m. ET 2 p.m. ET
the box to challenge as the ball was pumped long, leading to just the first of several uncomfortable moments for a decidedly shaky Argentine defense. The South Americans looked more assured in attack, though, and went ahead when Aguero turned tightly in the box and smashed in an unstoppable shot. Iceland stunned the stadium soon afterwards though when keeper Willy Caballero palmed Gylfi Sigurdsson’s low shot straight into the path of Finnbogason, who swept the ball into the unguarded net. After Cristiano Ronaldo’s hat-trick in Portugal’s 3-3 draw with Spain on Friday, all eyes were on Messi to respond but he was generally kept at arm’s length by the rugged but controlled Iceland defenders. The great man was given the ultimate opportunity after Hordur Bjorgvin Magnusson got entangled with Aguero in the box, only for Halldorsson to fly to his right and palm his mediocre strike clear. Iceland then defended superbly, almost fanatically, Samara Moscow Rostov
Sri Lanka deny wrongdoing... From page 78 their dressing room showed Coach Chandika Hathurusingha, Captain Dinesh Chandimal and team manager Asanka Gurusinha in discussion with match referee Javagal Srinath. When the players eventually came onto the field at 10.50am, West Indies were officially given five extra runs and umpires Ian Gould and Aleem Dar oversaw the changing of the ball. The two batsmen at the crease - Devon Smith and Shai Hope were given the right to choose the replacement, which is the protocol under ICC Law 41.3.
Before the first ball could be bowled, though, the Sri Lanka players left the middle of the ground and made its way to its periphery, which became the site of further discussions among players, team management, and match officials. It took another 40 minutes for play to finally begin. An official present at the ground said one of the main reasons Sri Lanka did not take the field was because “the umpires informed them about the ball change just 10 minutes before the start today without evidence of any footage.”
It is understood that the umpires were concerned about the condition of the ball at the end of the second day’s play. “We did see the umpires looking at the ball a few times yesterday, but there was no statement made at the end of the day,” the official said. “It all happened this morning.” A previous instance of a team refusing to take the field after a ball-change came at The Oval in 2006, when Pakistan did not take the field after tea on day four, after umpire Darrell Hair changed the ball and awarded five penalty runs to England. Pakistan eventually forfeited the Test.
D that also contains Croatia and Nigeria, who meet later on Saturday. “This match was a kind of a milestone for this team,” said Hallgrimsson, who vowed pre-tournament that his team would not sit back. “We are bluntly honest in
our ability. With a team like Argentina it is just a fact they have players with superior skills. “I think for everyone it is more enjoyable to play this way and achieve something than to play in a different way and not achieve anything.”
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Sri Lanka deny wrongdoing amid ball-tampering controversy (Cricinfo) Sri Lanka have strongly denied any wrongdoing after being charged with altering the condition of the ball during the St Lucia Test against West Indies. Their players protested the charge - and the subsequent penalty of a ball change and the award of five penalty runs to the opposition - by refusing to take the field at the start of the third day’s play yesterday. The match eventually resumed after a two-hour delay, but Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) have said the players are effectively continuing with the game “under protest”. ESPNcricinfo understands that umpires laid the charge against Sri Lanka after reviewing footage of the
second day’s play, and finding evidence pointing to the application of a substance to the ball. Officials privy to the case say that the Sri Lanka issue carries shades of the incident involving South Africa captain Faf du Plessis, who was found guilty of altering the condition of the ball during the 2016-17 Test series in Australia. ICC laws on changing the ball: 41.3.4 If the umpires consider that the condition of the ball has been unfairly changed by a member or members of either side, they shall ask the captain of the opposing side if he/she would like the ball to be replaced. If necessary, in the case of the bat-
ting side, the batsmen at the wicket may deputise for their captain. 41.3.4.1 If a replacement ball is requested, the umpires shall select and bring into use immediately, a ball which shall have wear comparable to that of the previous ball immediately prior to the contravention. 41.3.4.2 Regardless of whether a replacement ball has been chosen to be used, the bowler’s end umpire shall - award 5 Penalty runs to the opposing side. - if appropriate, inform the batsmen at the wicket and the captain of the fielding side that the ball has been changed and the reason for their action. - inform the captain of the
batting side as soon as practicable of what has occurred. The umpires together shall report the occurrence as soon as possible after the match to the Executive of the offending side and to any Governing Body responsible for the match, who shall take such action as is considered appropriate against the captain, any other individuals concerned and, if appropriate, the team.Play eventually began at 11.30am local time, with the umpires changing the ball and awarding West Indies five penalty runs. “The ICC can confirm the match officials in the second Test between West Indies and Sri Lanka changed the ball and awarded 5 penalty runs to West Indies,” the ICC later
tweeted. “If there are any, Code of Conduct charges will follow as per usual at close of play.” SLC, which is currently being administered by a government-appointed Competent Authority, sent out a statement defending Sri Lanka’s players. “SLC advised the team to take the field to ensure the continuity of the match and wish to commend the decision taken by the team to continue with the game ‘under protest’ to ensure the upholding of the spirit of the game,” the statement said. “Minister of Sports Hon. Faiszer Musthapa, and the Competent Authority of SLC, Mr. Kamal Pathmasiri in collaboration with the SLC CEO
Mr. Ashley De Silva and Mr. Chandima Mapatuna, Head of International Cricket of SLC conveyed to the team management that SLC shall take all necessary steps to defend any player, in the event any unwarranted allegation is brought against a member of the team.” At close of play on day two, West Indies were 118 for 2 in reply to the opposition’s first-innings score of 253. Day three was due to start at 9:30 am local time, half-an-hour early to make up for time lost to rain delays on day two. But even as the umpires made their way out to the middle, none of t h e S r i Lanka players joined them. Broadcaster visuals of (Continued on page 75)
Kaieteur News
Sunday June 17, 2018
ExxonMobil under-14 football tournament
Dolphin most dominant on match day 2 The ExxonMobil under14 boys’ and girls’ schools’ football tournament continued at the Ministry of Education (MOE) schools’ Sports Complex ground on C A R I F E S TA Av e n u e yesterday with 12 scheduled games. Out of all the matches, Dolphin Secondary emerged the most dominant after a commanding 4-1 victory over Queenstown. The Broad Street unit had four different players etch their name on the score sheet during the 40-minute encounter with their Queenstown rivals. Ian Ward opened the scoring in the 13th minute and Ronaldo Forde doubled the lead in the 16th minute which the eventual winners were content with at the end of the first half. On play’s resumption, goalkeeper Selwyn Jones came to his opposing box to rifle home a penalty kick in the 27th minute to take his team’s tally to 3-0 before Mickle Leitch closed off the scoring with a 32nd minute strike which found its way to the back of Queenstown net. Another highlight of the day saw Friendship Secondary edging Tucville 4-3, while South Ruimveldt were the only team to win by walkover as Bishops’ High School team were a no-show
Dolphin Secondary Goal scorers from left, Selwyn Jones, Mickle Leitch, Ronaldo Forde and Ian Ward each netted once in their 4-1 thrashing of Queenstown Secondary. for their 14:00hrs game. See the full results of match day number two of the E x x o n M o b i l u n d e r- 1 4 football tourney. Game #13 Vergenoegen 3 -1 North Ruimveldt (Multi) G o a l s c o r e r Vergenoegen Staray Lee16 and 17, Kwasi Gill 35 Goal Scorer Multi Akeem Pereira 12 Game #14 Uitvlugt 2 vs. Charlestown 1 Goal scorers Uitvlugt Joshua Fraser 9, Nicholas James 34
Goal scorer Charlestown Tyler Lyle 15 Game #15 Friendship 4 vs. Tucville 3 Goal scorer Friendship Shane Harper 7, Jonas Isaacs 20, Prince Forde 29, Stephan Harry 32 Goal scorer Tucville Odeyo Harris 2, Raheim Marks 33, Garfield Caesar 34 Game #16 Buxton 1 vs . Eas t Ruimveldt 1 Goal scorer Buxton Tyrice Dennis 1 Goal scorer East Ruimveldt
Jayden King 16 Game #17 St John’s 1 vs. New Campbellville 0 Goal scorer St John’s Emanuel Pestano 24 Game #18 Dolphin 4 vs. Queenstown 1 Goal scorer Dolphin Ian Ward 13, Ronaldo Forde 16, Selwin Jones 27, Mickel Keith 32 Goal scorer Queenstown Jahvon Worrel 23 Game #19 South Ruimveldt vs. Bishops South Ruimveldt won by walk over
YBG Berbice Zone Basketball underway
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h e Yo u t h Basketball Guyana (YBG) National School Basketball Regional Conference in collaboration with the Berbice Amateur Basketball Association started in Berbice their Regional Competition on Friday last between Lower Corentyne a n d C o r e n t y n e Comprehensive. Lower Corentyne came out winners by 35 – 30 points. For the Lower boys, Ezekiel Simon had 16 points, Jaydon Wiggins 8 points and Haifa Walters 6 points, while for Comprehensive Secondary Kevern King 9 points and Dwayne Williams 11 points were the top shots. In the game between Multilateral and Berbice High on June 11, Multi failed to turn up and give Berbice High a walkover. Line Path Secondary got pass Skeldon High 23 to 4 points at the Skeldon Basketball Court. Scoring for Line Path
GABA president handing over one of the basketballs to Line Path Secondary before the game between Line Path Secondary and Skeldon High. Sec., Jeremy Indarjit 9 points, Jafarie Odle 6 points and Jaimie Singh 6 points, while for Skeldon Steve Satuar had 2 points and Akeem Blades 2. Due to inclement weather the game between
JC Chandisingh and Berbice High was rescheduled for Tuesday 19th June, 2018, while tomorrow Lower Corentyne will play Line Path Secondary at Rose Hall Court. There are six schools
participating in this tournament. They are Lower Corentyne, Corentyne Comprehensive High, New Amsterdam Multilateral, Berbice High, Line Path Secondary and Skeldon High.
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Kaieteur News
Sunday June 17, 2018
EBFA/GFF Beginners Referees Training to conclude today
GFF Referee Instructor Ingram Johnson (seated) take time out for a pic during from yesterday’s session with the participants.
Over two dozen persons will today conclude a 3-day Beginners Referees Training Programme organised by the East Bank Football A s s o c i a t i o n ( E B FA ) , sponsored and facilitated by the Guyana Football Federation, GFF. The programme, which commenced on Friday evening at the Timehri Community Centre, saw participants being introduced to the intricacies of refereeing by GFF Referee Instructor, Stanley Lancaster. Mr. Ingram Johnson is the other GFF Instructor who is conducting the sessions with Lancaster. It has been arranged by the association to introduce a new cadre of officials to the sport at a time when most are needed as part of the GFF’s national recruitment drive aimed at tripling the amount of available officials across Guyana. Inclusive of three females, the participants have been encouraged by EBFA President Franklin Wilson to be the best they can be and to take on the challenge with open arms, noting that it is a profession that has encouraging opportunities at the local, regional and international levels. Gratitude was extended to the GFF for sponsoring programme and providing the requisite personnel to conduct the course which will conclude today with a test. Lancaster commented: “We are privileged to start this exercise with the East Bank Association and I must say that the participants have
responded well, this is a bunch that has been in the game for sometime so relating to the laws of the game and current methodology has not been a challenge. I am really happy to have a bunch of referees on the East Bank because this association has been playing numerous junior tournaments and we’ve been struggling to have match officials to service the matches. With this bunch of referees that we are training, we will put together a small committee to assist with managing them and to have continuous training.” T h e f o r m e r F I FA Referee noted that when EBFA tournaments are played they would be able to now have a full complement of match officials to take charge. ”So thanks to the GFF President who has seen this exercise fitting and has jumped on board to support first word. I would also like to say that from the Referees Department, we have a system and structure in place to manage this bunch of referees. We h a v e s i m i l a r programmes already planned for West Berbice and Essequibo but over time we will cover the entire country.” Sessions are being air marked to take place at least twice weekly for the new officials and Lancaster disclosed that persons who have not been a part of this course would be free to come and join the practical sessions and would be taken through the classroom paces, subsequently.
Over $3million in prizes up for grabs in Emancipation Horserace meet The Kennard Memorial Turf Club at Bush Lot, Corentyne will be hosting an Emancipation horserace meet on Sunday, July 29 under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority with over $3million in cash prizes up for grab. The meet will feature seven races with finishers from first to fourth being awarded cash prizes. The E1 and lower category will be the feature race over a distance of seven th
furlongs with a top purse of $600,000. Second place in the race will receive $300,000, third $150,000 and fourth $75,000. Entry into the race is set at $73,000. The H1 and lower class race will carry a first prize of $300,000 while the winner of the Guyana Bred three years and older will enjoy $250,000 and the two-year Guyana Bred class will pocket $200,000.The J3, L (Continued on page 75)
Kaieteur News
Sunday June 17, 2018
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Boyce/Jefford Classic IX lobbies Government for support
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hairman and Vice-Chairman of the Boyce and Jefford Track and Field Classic Committee, Colin Boyce and Edison Jefford met with The Honourable Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton, who also has responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, on Friday at his Main Street Office where a menu of issues were discussed, including plans to host the ninth edition of the annual athletics championships. According to a press release from the Committee, Boyce and Jefford also lobbied Government to support the annual activity that is scheduled for Saturday August 11 and Sunday August 12, 2018 at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground in Linden. “While we have been an international meet since we started several years ago, next year we plan to move to full international accredited status for our 10th Anniversary since we will be getting a synthetic track in Linden,” Boyce said in the release. According to Boyce, Government support is important from this year to help the event transition to the new facility scheduled to be constructed at the Bayroc Community Centre Ground. He said that Boyce and Jefford is “happy that there will be a track in Linden”. Minister Norton aptly responded indicating that the magnitude of the Boyce and Jefford Classic demands support. He congratulated the group for sustaining an event for nearly a decade against much odds, including bad weather and conditions for athletics. “I support Boyce and Jefford because you are the ones who started it; you need our support and it’s within your right to come to us; we are here to support you because we know it takes a lot of time and dedication to get to this level,” Norton posited. The Boyce and Jefford Track and Field Classic was started nine years agoin Linden, and can be credited with introducing corporate Guyana and the international athletics community to the sport here. The group has
advocated that their mission remains to establish a prominent place for athletics among the other traditional sport disciplines in Guyana. They believe that they have successfully resuscitated athletics with an emergence of other meets. Interestingly, double Commonwealth medalist, Aliann Pompey competed in Guyana for the first time at the Boyce and Jefford Classic in 2011. Since then, many other regional and international athletes have graced these shores for the event. “ Yo u a r e d o i n g something for Guyana. You are doing something that benefits Guyana and I want to congratulate you for staying in Linden even in the tough years,” Norton indicated, adding that his ministry is doing its best with the resources allocated to it and to keep the public informed on all developments. Also present at the meeting was Assistant Director of Sport, Melissa Dow-Richardson who made it clear that the Boyce and Jefford Classic is “one of the standout events locally”; she indicated to those present that she “follows the event intensely”. “I know that the event has a good relationship with corporate Guyana and the athletes… reaching out to the Administration is in the best interest of the competition as it grows to a decade of existence,” DowRichardson noted. The Boyce and Jefford Classic will doll out 4 million in cash and prizes with 1 million going to the top club, while second place gets $500,000, third place $300,000 and fourth place $200,000. In addition there will be eight international events valued at $100,000 each and other events for Masters and media, ensuring another 1 million in cash is handed out. Apart from the cash sums, trophies, medals and prizes for patrons will total another 1 million. Jefford thanked Minister Norton and the Ministry for giving the Committee the opportunity to detail their plans for the event. He said that again it was a historic moment since it was the first time a Minister with responsibility for Sport
showed any interest in the event. The Boyce and Jefford Track and Field Classic is one of the biggest athletics events in Guyana. Kares Engineering Inc. was the main sponsor of the event last year. National Director of Sport, Christopher Jones has also been a supporter of the competition.
Colin Boyce (left), Melissa Dow-Richardson (2nd left), Minister Dr. George Norton and Edison Jefford (right) after the meeting.
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Iceland hold Argentina to 1-1 draw as Messi misses penalty P. 77
Iceland’s Hannes Por Halldorsson saves a penalty taken by Argentina’s Lionel Messi. (REUTERS/Albert Gea)
Loads of people were interested in the state of the ball. (AFP)
Sri Lanka deny wrongdoing amid ball-tampering controversy
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Kumara’s four-for keeps West Indies’ lead to 47 P. 76 Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.