Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 26, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Govt. pays $265M in rent for $25M Sussex Street drug bond After promising to cease rental of the controversial drug bond at Sussex Street, Albouystown, the Ministry of Health continues to utilise the facility and has racked up millions of dollars in rental fees. This was disclosed by Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, in response to a written question from Opposition Member, Anil Nandlall. The answer, which was circulated at yesterday’s sitting of the National Assembly showed that the Ministry of Public Health paid $264.5M for the rental of the building to Linden Holding Inc. between July 2016 and March 2018. The issue of the bond surfaced in 2016 when it was learnt that the bond had been rented under very lucrative terms to businessman, Larry Singh, during the tenure of former Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, who had defended the

Ministry’s use of the facility. The controversy surrounding the use of the bond intensified when it was discovered late 2016 that the facility was merely storing items such as lubricants and condoms. Another visit to the facility this year revealed that although there were added items by the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), the manner of storage left much to be desired. There are reports that suggest that a three-year contract has been signed for use of the facility, but Minister Lawrence had disclosed that the Ministry had planned to end the rental of the bond by December 2017. However, she disclosed that Ministry had served a Notice of Quit dated October 2016 by then Permanent Secretary, Trevor Thomas. A reminder dated October 3, 2017 was sent by Permanent Secretary Colette Adams who had taken over from Thomas.

A photo taken yesterday of the drug bond at Sussex Street, Albouystown.

Lawrence had explained that the Government was hoping to take the money used for

the rental of the bond and reinvest it in the public health sector. The Minister had dis-

Special Prosecutors paid $20,000 per hour; plus $2M in retainer fees Each of the five special prosecutors hired for fraud cases involving former Government officials, received a retainer of $2M, according to information disclosed by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams. According to the salaries and benefits provided by Williams, the retainer fee was applied against the Attorney’s fees and cost incurred by the state or expenses paid by the attorney on behalf of the state. This is in addition to $20,000 per hour that each special prosecutor received for legal services rendered in prosecuting matters in the court. The information presented by Williams was contained in a written response to questions from Opposition Member, Anil Nandlall, who served as the previous Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs. Williams stated that the agreement signed by the special prosecutors is dated June 7, 2017. By the end of March, Williams noted that the prosecutors had worked on 12 cases. According to information supplied to Kaieteur News, the five special prosecutors retained by the state are Trenton Lake, Michael Somersall, Hughley Griffith, Lawrence Harris and Patrice Henry.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams

Former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall

Last year January when Government announced it was pursing fraud charges against officials in the former People’s Progressive Party administration, Compton Richardson, was announced as the sixth special prosecutor. Nandlall had told reporters at the time that the appointment of the special pros-

ecutors was unconstitutional. He had pointed out that lawyers who will be or have been hired as Special Prosecutors, are operating out of Government Ministers’ “former” firms. Police Legal Advisor, Justice Claudette Singh, SC, had been critical of the prosecutors’ work ethics. In the initial stages, she had stated

that the prosecutors were not attending meetings, “non-cooperative and that they were not pulling their weight.” She was of the view that the lack of cooperation was hindering the expeditious delivery of prosecution in many of the investigations undertaken by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). She also said that had the Special Prosecutors been more involved in the building of the cases by SOCU, more would have been accomplished. The special prosecutors were hired to ensure effective and efficient prosecution of criminal charges into the Sparendaam Housing Project, known as Pradoville Two, and the operations of the Guyana Cricket World Cup Inc. Nandlall is of the view that this was yet another political witch-hunt that is contaminated with cronyism, nepotism and ‘money for the boys’.

closed plans to build more bonds and expand the ones the Ministry has. The subsequent questions over the bond ultimately led to President David Granger ordering a probe and Dr. Norton being hauled before the Parliamentary Privileges Committee. Norton had admitted that the Government had entered into a multi-year rental agreement with a new company, Linden Holdings Company, to store pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. The Opposition had believed that Norton misin-

formed and misled the National Assembly when he stated that the reason that no procurement process was followed with regard to the selection of the company for a three-year contract was that the facility was required on an emergency basis. The Opposition also claimed that Norton misinformed the House when he said that the facility for storing pharmaceuticals and medical supplies was certified in keeping with international standards set out by Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO).

Grade Six results out on Thursday The results of the 2018 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) will be announced on Thursday, June 28, 2018 by the Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry. According to the Ministry yesterday, the announcements will be made at 13:00hrs in the boardroom of the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD), Kingston, Georgetown.

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Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

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

MOST RADICAL U.S. IMMIGRATION POLICY President Donald Trump has publicly stated that immigrants who enter the United States illegally should be sent back to where they came from immediately without any judicial process. It is one of the most draconian laws ever adopted against immigrants by any American president in U.S. history. As Trump puts it, “We cannot allow all of these people to invade our country. When somebody comes in, we must immediately, with no judges or court cases send them back from where they came. Our system is a mockery to good immigration policy and law and order. Most children come without parents.” This seems to be in direct contradiction to the Statue of Liberty and the message it proclaims, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. It is important to know that U.S. immigration law provides certain rights for undocumented immigrants arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In most cases, they are allowed a full hearing before an immigration judge to determine whether they are truly asylum seekers, refugees and are allowed to stay or be deported. All other U.S. Presidents have respected this process of giving immigrants a fair hearing under U.S. law. President Trump’s policy on migration crackdown is contrary to ethical and moral standards and the United Nations Convention on the rights and protection of children. Regardless of their parents’ actions, children should not be made to suffer. Within the U.S., there has been rising political pressure on the Trump Administration over the status of the separated children, some as young as a few months old, being housed in U.S. government facilities and private day care centres with no clear information on how they will be reunited with their parents. It is heartbreaking for most Americans, including many in the Trump Administration to see children who have ended up locked in cages, like wild animals, removed from the care of their parents with little or no hope for what lies ahead. Certainly, those children will grow up with a bitter understanding of the world around them. The world has been watching the deep pain and suffering of how some families who have made their way from several Central American countries as well as Mexico into the U.S. have been caught up in politics. They have found themselves detained and their children separated from them by the authorities. The situation reached boiling point with claims and counter-claims as to who was responsible for the actions, and whether or not the people who put the children at risk have any say in how they will be reunited. U.S immigration officials say more than 2,500 children have been taken from some 2,000 parents since May. International politics also got hot as Britain’s Prime Minster Theresa May; her Canadian counter-part, Justin Trudeau; French President, Emmanuel Macron; and even Pope Francis have criticized President Trump for his zero tolerance policy on illegal immigrants and the separation of children from their parents. Such controversies are not unusual for the Trump Administration. However, the U.S. has made it clear that it is opposed to what may seem to be others interfering in the internal affairs of the country. Immigration and national security issues, which are touchy subjects right now are indeed internal issues. However, public outcry and mounting pressure from members of his Republican Party has forced President Trump to reverse his policy of separating migrant children from their parents at the border. The U.S. House of Representatives will also be voting on legislation to keep immigrant families together.

Contextualizing the political rhetoric of Constitutional Reform DEAR EDITOR, The essayist Verian Mentis-Baker in a (as usual) very erudite treatise – this time on GUYANA CONSTITUTION REPAIR – poses a question that rebukes any superficial knowledge of our National Constitution; the question posed is ‘…when was the last time “We the people of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana” read the Constitution, understanding its influence over our day to day existence…even seeing what it says and particularly of late?’ The rebuke…entrenched in the author’s assertion (with which all thinking Guyanese should agree) that, ‘It’s not enough to acknowledge constitutional illiteracy with a mere shrug of nonchalance. This is the one document that defines our national identity. Its place in our cultural heritage, citing the six peoples of our nation and the bond of nationality that yields ‘One people, One nation with One destiny’, is patently unique. Its values are what bind us together as a nation, not race or ethnicity or culture; not politics or party.’ According to Ms MentisBarker in her June 21, 2018 XpressBlogg piece – it was

‘a tone of over-instruction’ in our Constitution Amendment that led to the excavation of some significant historical facts which to this writer’s mind - illuminate the political strategy informing Bharat Jagdeo’s contemporary race baiting in the nation’s media outlets…providing him with far too much air time. Noting that the ‘over-instructive tone’ was what prompted her in-depth production of a well-researched document that provides context for the nation’s contemporary political environment – the author states that it ‘... made us curious and in searching, we found some history that may not be as widely known as it should be…that was somehow patented for political gain and infused into this Constitution, which should be the People’s Contract…as in ALL the people. ‘See,’ she reveals – ‘while the fight for Independence was being waged primarily by Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham, Stephen Campbell, an Amerindian from Santa Rosa of the North West District was just as actively fighting but - to preserve the lands he felt were the exclusive property of Amerindians

only.’ The author’s research further reveals that – ‘Colin Palmer’s ‘Cheddi Jagan and the politics of Power’ (p. 205 -206) adds an exclamation point to this period in Guyana’s history… ‘It details the words of 1958 American Consul, General Melby who recounts: ...Stephen Campbell admitted that there was historical “antipathy, hostility between Africans and Amerindians dating back to “when his people served as slave catchers”. Amerindians, said Campbell, voted as a racial group and having to choose between the black man, the white man and the coolie man...preferred the white man because he was the “known factor”. Campbell… showed a “lower opinion of the African”, disdaining those who were “more English than the English” and expressed admiration for the economic proficiency of the Indian.’ There’s more – much more that’s just as illuminating to this exposition that leads to the author/researcher ‘s plausible assertion – ‘By deduction, this sets up the perfect ally for the PPP to expand its

predominantly East Indian base’, and definitely sheds light on the transparency of the Jagdeo/PPP divide and conquer strategy. After taking the time to read this piece on ‘GUYANA CONSTITUTION REPAIR’, delving into the historic references provided – even those of us who once casually shrugged off ‘constitutional illiteracy’ would agree with the author’s final conclusions that – ‘...This is rot that is now gangrenous and should not be retained by any government succeeding one that deployed this relatively surreptitious effort to change the Nation’s Constitution for partisan gain. ‘We’re not sure what the Coalition Reform suggestions submitted to the Prime Minister are; but in the interest of retaining our values, upholding our motto and extending the appreciation, dignity and respect that is the inheritance of each race, we ask that this amendment, the one that singles out one race from amongst six, to ‘value and recognize’ be reviewed for pertinence to what we, as a nation, proclaim. Joan Cambridge CEO Julian Mayfield Foundation.

Jagdeo is fighting for political survival and relevance DEAR EDITOR, It should come as no surprise. Today, the Caribbean Court of Justice will announce its decision on the socalled third term ruling that, once and for all, will answer the questions of former President Bharrat Jagdeo. There is no amount of white-washing that Jagdeo can do to overcome this disrespect that he has foisted on Guyanese. It is clear that his hands are in the case brought on by Cedric Richardson, who burst out to the sunlight from nowhere. Jagdeo and his party were in Government when an important agreement was brokered to ensure that no president should have more than two terms, period. The reason for this is clear. No president, and for that matter, no Government or political party should believe that the offices of Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Bourda, belong to them. It is not a birthright. The CCJ will rightly strike down Jagdeo’s attempt today. Jagdeo came into power suddenly and there were many who looked upon this young man with hope, for the

status quo to change. His ideas seemed out-of-the-box and welcomed. But something happened in the mid-2000s and something of a dictatorship was birthed. Jagdeo and his party seemed on a runaway train to create an elite group of party people, and contractors whose watering holes on Main Street and in Kitty were indicative of the sad state. The crime wave, the seeming protection that a few powerful minions enjoyed, galled

Guyana. It provoked the people so much that the 2011 dismal results came as no surprise to Jagdeo’s handpicked man, Donald Ramotar. Everybody knew who the real president was between 2011 and 2015. The radio licences were but one example of how petty the party leaders descended. Let us not even talk about the Guyana Sugar Corporation. For a party to sit and do little while the corporation crumbled under their feet is

unforgivable. The blame has to be laid fully in the lap of the PPP executives who ruled this country for two decades. The writing was on the wall long before the Coalition Government took office. We will not even talk about the financing structures of the Berbice Bridge and Marriott. Jagdeo has attempted to prepare the way for if the CCJ does not rule in the favour of (Continued on page 5)

Ongoing racial invective against Haitians in Guyana by the PPP is cause for concern DEAR EDITOR, The constant invective and coded messages against Haitians by PPP members of Parliament is a cause for concern. It’s shocking that a former President and sitting members of the National Assembly could be so driven by racial hysteria and political considerations. Haiti is a full member of CARICOM! Maybe the Speaker of the National Assembly should convene a class for Parliamentarians on CARICOM free movement. The arrival of Africans into Guyana and the western hemisphere is well documented. So too is the long history of African struggles against slavery, colonialism, racism and other

evils. The ongoing assault by members of the opposition on Africans shows that the struggle continues. Guyana just hosted an International Decade of People of African Descent Summit. “In proclaiming this Decade, the international community is recognizing that people of African descent represent a distinct group whose human rights must be promoted and protected.” The APNU+AFC government and CARICOM must take immediate action to halt all violations of the rights of Haitians in Guyana. While members of the opposition are entitled to their opinions, warped as they might be, Haitians as citizens of CARICOM have (Continued on page 6)

Tuesday June 26, 2018

Dismissed sugar workers need urgent action, not cheap talk DEAR EDITOR, The June 24, 2018 Stabroek News reported that a coordinating committee has been established regarding GuySuCo’s ‘Sustainable and Resilient Communities Programme’ and ‘Alternative Livelihoods Initiative’. For the GAWU, the establishment of a committee, now six (6) months after the workers of Skeldon, Rose Hall and East Demerara were made jobless and eighteen (18) months since a similar fate met the Wales workers, in our sincere view, says a mouthful. The belated establishment of a ‘committee’ clearly demonstrates that there was and, from all appearances, still is, no plan or even a concerted effort to address the well-being and welfare of the thousands of ordinary Guyanese who have been affected by the wrong decisions to close sugar estates. Certainly, GuySuCo and the authorities had, in our view, significant lead-time to properly plan and devise workable solutions to mitigate the loss of the workers’ livelihoods. The fact that this is now being done nearly at the end of the second half of 2018 confirms

the view that there was not even a glancing thought regarding how workers and their families would make out following the closing of the estates’ doors. We c a n n o t h e l p b u t wonder, whether the ‘highpowered’ committee is aware of the realities that the jobless sugar workers and their families now face. Do they know that some workers cannot provide sufficient, healthy meals for their families? Do they know that some workers have had to remove their children from school? Do they know that some workers have found themselves in a depressive state? Do they know that families have broken up? It seems to us, that the stage-show committee, sitting, in air-conditioned boardrooms, far away from the suffering spawned by closure of estates, is unaware of the present-day realities in the communities linked to the now closed estates. The use of catchy names and having nice pictures of meetings mean very little to the workers and their families who are

Jagdeo is fighting... From page 4 Richardson.CCJ’s decision will have implications on Jagdeo, the politician if the decision goes against him. It is simple. He is not as well liked, as he wants Guyana to believe. He is popular but not liked. The old heads view him with deep suspicion and there is uneasiness in the party.The reality is Jagdeo is running scared. It will be all over for him today if the decision does not go his way. He made it clear over the weekend that he will continue

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to serve in the party come 2020.Better yet, even if the decision goes against his intentions to run again, Jagdeo made it clear that he is unwilling to give up the party’s top position, that of General Secretary. We can do worrying projections and think of what happens if Jagdeo remains as General Secretary and can’t run for the presidency in 2020. Who do you think will be the real president? And why does Jagdeo insist on remaining General Secretary? Mike Singh Sr.

caught literally between a rock and a hard place. If the committee is really serious it needs to go to the communities to interact with the workers, find out what are their problems and devise appropriate solutions to address the difficulties they face. The seeming satellite approach cannot and, in our sincere view, will not work. The GAWU also saw that the Ministry of Natural Resources, according to the June 25, 2018 Stabroek News, has sponsored a training programme which will train about 100 persons in several fields. Of the 100person cohort, we recognise, some retrenched sugar workers will benefit. The GAWU welcomes this training programme, which will address a very small amount of the displaced workers. At the same time, we cannot help but wonder whether any careful consideration has been given to trainees securing employment with their newfound skills, as it can very well negate the impact of the training. We also wonder whether any assessment has been done regarding the availability of such skills in Region Six and whether the trainees will join a saturated market. These, we believe, among other things, should be fully well thought-out before embarking on programmes of this nature. At this time, while the grass is growing, the horse is starving and the jobless workers are finding it harder day by day. For the now dismissed sugar workers, they need urgent action not cheap talk. Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

A bridge that may sink us DEAR EDITOR, Ours is an economy, which is comparatively small, relatively undiversified and precariously dependent upon primary production. In such an economy, experience, if not common sense, militates against the over-expenditure of scarce financial resources, however accessed, on projects that are infrastructural and nonp r o d u c t i v e . In Suriname, for example, the construction of two massive bridges has thrown one of the most vibrant and resilient economies in the Region, into a tailspin, from which a decade after, it is yet to recover. Similarly, in St Vincent, perhaps the most modern and one of the largest international airports in the Caribbean, just constructed, is perceived to have caused two commercial banks to close their doors, and has cascaded the tiny economy of that island into chaos. It is against this economic reality that great care and prudence were exercised by the PPP/Civic administration in relation to capital projects of such nature. For example, the model used for the financing of the Amaila Falls Hydro Project required not a single cent from the treasury. The project was to be financed solely by the contractor. All that was required from the Government was a guarantee of GPL’s purchase of the power generated by the project under a Power Purchase Agreement. Similarly, the Berbice River Bridge, again, did not extract any financial input from the treasury, but was financed by a unique and innovative Public/Private partnership.

In order to minimize the cost of that bridge, the design and location of the bridge were carefully chosen. Even then, the resultant tolls to cross the bridge generated great criticism from the then political Opposition, although every effort was expended to bring the toll as close as possible to what it would have cost to cross the river by ferry. The bottom line is, no one can or has ever questioned the cost of that project. The benefits flowing therefrom have been and continue to be immeasurable. Those who were hitherto critical of it, and promised to slash the tolls by half, now in Government, hypocritically enjoy it and have never delivered the promise in respect of the tolls. Let me make it very clear that I support a new bridge across the Demerara River. The technical life of the current bridge has long expired. In fact, when in government, I was part of a Cabinet that made a decision to construct a new bridge across the Demerara. That Cabinet commissioned a feasibility study in order to examine the design of a new bridge, its location, estimated costs and the possible model of its financing. At a cost of several million dollars, such a study was done. This study, unfortunately, recommended two different locations for the new bridge without taking into account locating it alongside the current bridge. Additionally, the cost of the fixed four lanes, reinforced concrete bridge, which was recommended was considered to be exorbitant. The 2015 elections came and

the rest is now history. This Government handpicked a foreign consultant at a cost of 146 million dollars to commission a new study. This study produced Houston as the most suitable location for the bridge. The design was a three-lane fixed bridge. Subsequently, this design was also scrapped. So 146 million dollars were wasted and they are now planning to proceed with a four-lane fixed bridge to be designed by the contractor. Therefore, in the final analysis, the contractor will determine the cost of the bridge that has to be built! Unless this project is prudently monitored, managed, and executed in a transparent and accountable manner, we are likely to end up with a monstrosity, which can cost this nation billions of dollars. The resulting toll charges will be far beyond the affordability of the average Guyanese and consequently, hundreds of millions will have to be haemorrhaged from the treasury to subsidize it, annually. These are merely ancillary to the huge debt burden, which the financing of this project would leave upon the backs of the ordinary Guyanese. When this debt is added to the over US$950 million expected to be borrowed from the Islamic Bank, coupled with the 30 million borrowed for GuySuCo, which the Government has guaranteed, I am in no doubt that we are once again on the road to becoming the most indebted people, per capita, in the western hemisphere – and unenviable legacy of the PNC. History and societal (Continued on page 6)

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‘Bad eggs’ bringing great shame on the Guyana Police Force DEAR EDITOR, Over the years, I have observed some Guyanese police officers, both men and women, bringing great shame upon their uniform, the Commissioner of Police and the noble institution of the Guyana Police Force by blatantly violating their Oath of Office to serve and protect while being paid with taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars. Many police officers are involved in skullduggery, deceit and disgraceful, self-serving activities. There was a mind-blowing incident some years ago when they set fire to a male youth’s genitals. Police officers are known to be involved in theft, soliciting bribes and smuggling; some even rape persons in custody or coerce sex from those who go to police stations or outposts seeking assistance. I am not talking about all of them. There are decent men and women in the Guyana Police Force who are totally professional in their conduct and attitude. They approach their role to maintain law and order in society with discipline, mental clarity and commitment. They actually take their job seriously and strive to protect the people of Guyana to the best of their ability. That is why it worries me deeply that, there are so many examples of rotten eggs who spoil the good name of their colleagues in the police force. Just recently, at the Timehri Police Outpost, a woman detained for drug dealing and other criminal activities, claimed that the police re-

leased her after she gave them what I describe as a pound of female flesh. When we hear about police officers involved in corruption, brutality, bribery, deceit and especially sexual perversions, the culprits are always male. What is wrong with these men? To be fair, it’s not just within the Police Force. In most places where men are employed, including private security businesses, males try to take advantage of females. Police officers get mixed up in an astounding number of sex scandals. In May, a policeman was remanded to prison for having sex with a 15-year-old girl. In January, a woman claimed that two policemen raped her at the Turkeyen Police Station and a female rank then tried to get her to accept hush money. No less than former Commissioner of Police, the late Henry Greene, came under the microscope after an allegation of rape. It is also common knowledge that a policeman who was on duty at an East Coast police station ended up having sexual intercourse with a female prisoner and fathered a child with her. T h a n k f u l l y, h e w a s charged and jailed. These days, women take a huge risk by going to the police station for assistance, because too many police officers behave as if they are sexually starved. In fact, they often behave like raving sexual maniacs. Several women I know, old and young, who went to the police recently for help, were bombarded by male ranks

for sexual favours. The office of the Commissioner of Police can easily verify this by simply giving a female decoy a recording device and sending her to a station to make a report. The decoy with her recorder will get clear evidence of how far policemen will go to get sex from any female who approaches them to make a report, even if she is a crime victim who is traumatized or depressed. This must come to an end. It is also known that some policemen, in order to get a pound of flesh from a female complainant, will harass the person she has lodged the complaint against and even use violence against the accused person. It does not matter to such officers whether the complaint is true or false. Some women seek the help of the police to deliver summonses, and instead of assisting, some ranks want to have sex first. Recently, two police officers were among seven persons detained after an illegal firearm with a spent shell was found close to them. This is just one of countless reports of police officers being held with illegal weapons. What does a police officer want with an illegal firearm? Does he wants to disguise himself and go to rob people, aided by the information he is privy to as a police rank? About a year ago, at Sparendaam Police Station, I saw a sweating policeman rush into the building. He started to look desperately for a cell phone charger he had forgotten in his drawer, saying, “My God, they will steal it!” I asked him if the police would steal a charger from a

drawer in the station. He replied, “What? The police are the biggest thieves!” He was right. The charger was gone from his drawer. We know that when items are seized and stored by the police to be used as evidence (cash, weapons, narcotics, etc.) some of the same police officers we put to watch the milk end up stealing the milk. A former policeman who worked for my company after retirement, told me he had his own boat plying between Venezuela and Charity, smuggling goods back in the day when certain items were banned. I notice too that police ranks seem addicted to their cell phones. I had to report a policeman who abandoned his important task of directing traffic at the Diamond intersection to speak on his cell phone. It is disgusting to see roadblocks all over Guyana with officers on their cell phones during these operations. On June 14, while travelling along Church Street, preparing to turn into Irving Street, I saw a series of cars and motorbikes with young Guyanese wearing red tops and black pants and skirts. Young men and young women were sitting on the bonnets and roofs of the vehicles, and they were blasting through the street with no police escort. I said to my companion in my vehicle that this could become a crisis and people could be seriously injured or even killed. As we approached Lamaha Street, one of the drivers of this mini-motorcade braked suddenly and some of these people fell off the roof

of the vehicle. Fortunately, no cars were coming or some could have been crushed. I saw one screaming and writhing in pain and it seems she had dislocated her shoulder from the fall. I noticed a policeman who had stopped his bike near Thomas Lands, in Kitty, was talking on his cell phone. I tried to tell him what I had seen, but he just ignored me and kept on talking on the phone. After a while, I had to abandon this attempt and leave. Such officers are bringing shame and disgrace to the police and to Guyana. As a nation, we should have zero tolerance for this behaviour. We have to do whatever it takes to remove such scumbags from law enforcement. They taint other officers who conduct themselves professionally with p r i d e a n d d i g n i t y. A n d there are many such good officers. As far as I know, my father, the late retired Assistant Commissioner of Police ( A g . ) , Aw a d Chandra Lall was a decent policeman who served this country honourably and with respect. He was known back in the day as the ‘Berbice James Bond’ and as Inspector Lall throughout his career. Of course, he is not the only one. There were and are many other great professionals. I suggest setting up a sting operation to identify the rotten eggs within the force and weed them out. We cannot allow the need for personnel to supersede the need for discipline. I once spoke to a Commissioner about this and

he confessed that instead of getting rid of corrupt officers, they try to redeem them and keep them on the force to avoid training new people all over again. We also need to review and revise the recruitment process of the Guyana Police Force. Under the current system, too many unsuitable persons, some of whom have criminal tendencies, end up in law enforcement. This is wrong and it has to be fixed. We have to overhaul and upgrade the vetting of police recruits to keep out those who will bring law enforcement into disrepute. Certain men and women of good repute in society and friendly to the Guyana Police Force could be appointed as external supervisors of officers on the road, with the authority to speak to them and even sanction them, and forward reports to the Commissioner of Police and/or the district commanders. I make these observations because I love the Guyana Police Force. I believe I have a ‘police gene’ because I feel a strong sense of loyalty and care for the police. I am even willing to volunteer my time and energy as a consultant to the police, offering guidance in areas such as station management or I can provide counseling. I am willing to volunteer my expertise, free of charge, to provide any service that will benefit the Guyana Police Force and, by extension, the people of my nation. Sincerely, Roshan Khan Snr.

A bridge... From page 5 evolution have taught us that humankind ought to learn from their mistakes, or are condemned to repeat them. Our Government seems determined to keep us trapped in this cycle of condemnation and repetition. The elections of 2020 presents the earliest exit from this vicious cycle. Only time will tell if we will be so sagacious as a nation to make the right choice. Mohabir Anil Nandlall, MP Attorney-at-Law

Ongoing racial... From page 4 rights, and those rights must be protected. As we expect other countries to protect the rights of Guyanese. Humble regards, Mark Jacobs

Tuesday June 26, 2018

Man follows father to jail for stolen phone A man who told the court that he jokingly stole a man’s phone from his vehicle was yesterday sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman. Twenty-two-year-old Kevin Christopher admitted to the charge which alleged that on June 22, last, at Sussex Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, he stole one Samsung phone valued $75,000, property of Alan Campbell. Christopher in his explanation to the court stated, “Madam, is joke I been mekking when I tek the phone. He wife see when I pick up the phone and she ain’t say anything. I give my uncle the phone to keep.” The man who appeared to be unremorseful added, “My father in jail when he come out, he gone deal with them police who beat me. I tek the stupid phone to sell it fuh buy milk for my two children.” Police Prosecutor, Shawn Gonsalves, stated that on June 2, at Sussex Street, Charlestown, the victim parked his car and went to conduct business. The court heard that on his

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Jailed: Kevin Christopher return, the victim observed his phone missing; he went and reported the matter to the s t a t i o n . An investigation was launched and the defendant was arrested. Under caution, he replied, “Officer don’t beat me, I gon carry you where the phone deh.” Magistrate Latchman before sentencing Christopher told him that he should not steal and that he should work hard for what he wants.

She added, “Do not let this continue into the next generation of your family. Your father is in jail and you’re going to jail. You must teach your children the right thing. This has to stop.” Magistrate Latchman went on tell Christopher that based on the prevalence of the offence and the need to prohibit others from contemplating similar offences, she imposed the custodial sentence on him.

Guyana gets US$35M World Bank loan for fiscal system in preparation for oil The World Bank has approved a US$35 million Development Policy Credit to Guyana. This sum is expected to support Guyana’s efforts to strengthen financial sector development and fiscal management to better prepare the country to benefit from its newly discovered oil and gas reserves and transform its oil wealth into human capital. While currently nearly one in four people in Guyana live in poverty, experts estimate that GDP will surge when commercial production of newly-discovered oil and gas begins. In response, the government has embarked on a series of reforms to diversify the economy and turn oil windfalls into human development and sustainable growth in the long term. “Guyana is making important strides to promote financial resilience and improve fiscal management, and has embarked on a broad-based reform programme,” said Tahseen Sayed, World Bank’s Country Director for the Caribbean. “These reforms will be key to building a strong

economy that is underpinned by a strategic management of public resources for the benefit of the Guyanese people.” The World Banks said that the money will go towards enabling sound financial development to promote macroeconomic stability and long-term growth. In particular, the money will support banking reforms and depositor protection, the establishment of a deposit i n s u r a n c e scheme, implementation of a new insurance law, and the country’s anti-money laundering efforts. “This Development Policy Credit,

40

the first of a series of two programmatic financial and fiscal development policy credits, is financed from the International Development Association (IDA).” Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, said, “This financing provides critical support to our reform agenda and efforts to s t r e n g t h e n i n s t i tu t i o n s and build a resilient economy that is capable of withstanding both external and domestic shocks. “These reforms will be key to guide the management of oil revenues for the benefit of present and future generations.”

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Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

Lotto Fund probe…

Suspect skips country one day ahead of wanted bulletin A suspect whom investigators wanted to question in an ongoing investigation of the Lotteries Commission is believed to have skipped the country a day before a wanted bulletin was issued for him. The Sheriff Street man was being sought for questioning about his involvement with transactions of the Lotto Fund, involving millions of dollars. While officials of the police Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) were tightlipped yesterday, sources disclosed

that from indications Jadoo Datt, left Skeldon, on May 15, for Suriname. The next day, the police issued a wanted bulletin for him. The problem with that, according to police officials, is that the request for the wanted bulletin had been with police for about a week before it was issued to media h o u s e s . It is believed that during the “delay”, Datt may have been tipped off about the bulletin and fled. On May 16, police an-

nounced that Datt is wanted for questioning in relation to a number of conspiracies to defraud the Government of Guyana, between the period December 2015 and April 2016. Datt is said to be 40 years old. His last known address was given as 64 Sheriff Street, Campbellville. Datt is said to be one of several persons who signed to collect payments issued by the Lottery Control Commission, which has responsibilities over the Lotto Fund.

Those cheques were to the tune of millions of dollars. Under the agreement between the Government of Guyana and the Canadian Bank Note, which is the parent company of the Guyana Lottery Company, this country gets 24 percent of gross revenues from the lottery. However, over the years, the administration of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has been accused of keeping the monies under its control at the Office of the President, instead of turning it over to the Public Treasury. It is believed that the fund had hundreds of millions of dollars in it from the Lottery Company. In fact, the new administration has spent monies from

Wanted: Jadoo Datt it, including $300M in 2015 on the D’Urban Park. The Auditor General had reported that between 1996

and 2011, the Government of Guyana received over $4B from the Guyana Lottery Company. The monies were used for sports, education and health. With regards to the SOCU investigations, it was reported that in 2015 the Coalition Government ordered forensic audits into several state entities. The Lotto Fund was also audited. It is the findings of the audit that concerned the Ministry of Finance, which handed the report over to the police to be investigated. A number of Ministry personnel, including Vladim Persaud, the Assistant Accountant General, were among those questioned. He was sent on leave.

ExxonMobil thrives in divided societies - Peter Ramsaroop - Calls on Govt. and Private Sector to stop chastising those looking out for Guyana’s best interest Economic advisor to the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic, Peter Ramsaroop, wants all Guyanese to understand “our reality”. The reality he speaks of is that ExxonMobil needs Guyana more than the country needs it. Ramsaroop recently said this in a missive he sent out to the media. He said that ExxonMobil is poised to make much money off Guyana; way, way more than the company will be giving back. Also, Ramsaroop said, “Government politicians and even the Private Sector Commission seem to believe that ExxonMobil is here to save Guyana. This is far from any truth. The company is here to make money, increase shareholder value and profits.” Ramsaroop noted that nowhere in any of ExxonMobil corporate strategic plan documents, will one find any language that outlines areas to develop Guyana as a Nation. He said, “The atmosphere that the government and private sector is trying to create is to chastise anyone” who points out that Guyana has been shafted. “We as citizens are here to protect our nation; we are here to ensure our natural resources are used to improve the lives of our citizens, the development of our nation and the long-term future of the next generation. “The PPP/C Version 2.0 outlines significant developmental projects that should have been further along, in-

Advisor to the Political Opposition, Peter Ramsaroop stead our Nation is at an economic standstill, waiting on Oil Money,” said Ramsaroop. Further, Ramsaroop said that Guyanese need to be even more vigilant “because the unmanaged expectations that is fomenting in Guyana today is the atmosphere of division, confusion and frustration among the population where companies like ExxonMobil will thrive on a distracted people.” During a brief interview yesterday, Ramsaroop said that any research on the countries where ExxonMobil operates will reveal that the company’s modus operandi is

to make the best out of its operation in any nation that is divided. “They always try to come out looking good…Our private sector is falling for ExxonMobil PR. Local businesses are not really benefitting.” Ramsaroop said that he notes the utterances of some businesses that have been saying that criticism of ExxonMobil translates to chasing investors away. “But I do not see it that way at all. As far as I am concerned, we are merely sending a message to the other companies that Guyanese will not just lie down to be walked over.”

Tuesday June 26, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Keep it simple! We h a v e b e c o m e a consultant’s country. Everything that has to be done requires a preliminary study, then a draft strategy has to be prepared which has to be subject to long consultations and the holding of workshops before a final strategy is prepared. When that is approved, projects have to be identified and funding sought. The persons providing the money have to do their own feasibility studies and then ask for further data collection to drive the intended project. But before all of that, some more consultants have to be hired to develop institutional capacity. This will lead to the creation of a high paid bureaucracy,

which will produce more reports, which will lead to more studies. The cycle will perpetuate itself. It is all too complicated, as is evident in the plan to make Bartica a green town. There must be a simpler way of getting things done. In order to make Bartica a green town, it has been as necessary to establish a National Stakeholder Forum for the Transitioning to National Energy Security (TNES) for the Bartica as a model Green Town Project. There is also a plan to have energy audits of the town, one of the smallest in the country. Whatever happened to good old common sense?

Why is this complicated planning necessary for something, which can be achieved with basic common sense? A simple common sense plan would start by counting the number of streetlights in the community and preparing a budget for changing these into solar powered lamps. This does not require any detailed consultant report. If the idea is to encourage residents and businesses to switch to solar power, the a solar farm should be established to produce energy for the entire community because there is no way that the ordinary household is going to afford to convert their home to

Dem boys seh ...

Buy a drug bond fuh $25M and mek $250M profit in two years Lloydie got to be de greatest investor in de whole world. He better than Donald Trump and fuh sure he mek Bill Gates look like stupidness. All dem inventors like de man who mek Facebook or de people who invent Twitter who Trump like use, or dem who mek WhatsApp can’t match Lloydie. He tie up a deal wid Dr. George who tek orders from Li’l Joe. But dat wasn’t de investment. Lloydie buy a property fuh $25 million. If he did put dat money in de bank, he woulda get at de most $250,000 in profit fuh de same time he rent it. Dem boys nearly dead

when dem hear dat between 2016 July and March 2018, he collect $264 million in rent. Anybody know dat right away, de profit is more than $250 million by now because he still collecting rent. He do better than Babbie when Jagdeo use to give him all dem pharmaceutical contract. Babbie never mek such a profit and nobody in de history of Guyana who rent property ever mek dat kind of money. Dem special prosecutor in de thick of things too. All of dem get $2 million fuh a retainer. Then fuh every hour dem stand up in de court, dem get $20,000. And wha mek de thing more sweet is if dem

stand up and argue fuh one hour and five minutes, dem getting money fuh two hours. Dem boys seh dem now understand why dem special prosecutor quick fuh ask fuh adjournment. De life sweet! Anil know how sweet it is to be a special prosecutor. He was one. De only thing is dat he use to get more than wha dis set getting. It look like if is de same game, same rules but different players. Money use to flow just like dat when Jagdeo was president. It flowing de same way under Soulja Bai. Talk half and don’t believe dat money not circulating.

use solar power. Once the solar farm can produce energy which is cheaper than what can be produced by GPL, then the farm should enter into a power- purchase agreement with the GPL branch in that town. GPL already has the distribution system. There is no need for all this fancy energy s t r a t e g y. Simple commonsense and straightforward planning will do. The obsession, which governments have with hiring consultants or paying some of their staff consultants’ salaries leads to a lot of reports being generated but very little being achieved. At the pace of change in the world, by the time, the consultant report is read and approved, better options would have become available and a new report would have to be prepared. The whole issue of financing development has created a c o n s u l t a n c y i n d u s t r y. This industry makes a lot of money mostly for those international agen-

cies, which specialize in offering technical assistance. It creates highpaid but low results employment for a battery of paper-pushers who are known as consultants and experts. These persons are good at writing reports and calculating costs but poor at getting things done which they will say is not their responsibility. If Bartica wants to switch to renewables, it should do so by finding an energy source, which can be supplied cheaper than fossil fuel. It can invite offers from private firms to supply the power to GPL under a powerpurchase agreement. Right now, the largest cost for solar energy is the storage. And this places it out of the reach of the average man and small businesses. But if the government is keen for persons to convert their homes and businesses to solar power, it should offer the incentives for them to do by demonstrating that it is cheaper to go off grid than stay on the grid, and by offering some ad-

ditional tax concessions. That is the basic common sense way to go green. Transportation, it is said utilizes more than 40% of the energy generated in the town. Well, certain zones can be designated as walking zones, which would reduce emissions from fuel sources or incentives can be provided for persons to use electric cars or e-bicycles. If the APNU+AFC wants to be freely reelected to office in 2020, it should put away all these strategies and reports and do away with all these consultant-type offices. It should put the money that is saved to better use. It should pursue common sense and basic planning to move forward in doing what it says it wants to do. Government is not a complex art. it is consultancy, a self-perpetuating system, which makes it so.

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Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Today the CCJ rules on the power ambition of Bharrat Jagdeo Whether the Caribbean Court of Justice rules in favour of or against Bharrat Jagdeo today on the presidential term restriction, the farce of this court case will enter the political history books of this country. It may be appropriate to use the adjective “depraved” in front of farce. The Constitution allows for a president to serve two terms only whether consecutive or separated by ten, fifteen, twenty years. Bharrat Jagdeo served two elected tenures of five years each and had two extra years because

President Janet Jagan appointed him to succeed her. He had three years of de facto power because the Ramotar presidency was a Medvedev syndrome. It was a total of 15 years of control. Not satisfied with fifteen years of hegemony, Jagdeo took the advice of some lawyer(s) and came up with the idea that the National Assembly through a two/thirds majority vote could not have inserted into the constitution, the term restriction. It had to be done by a referendum. So he went to court. He went to court in the

belief that the PPP was invincible and it could not lose general elections and that since he is the monarch of the PPP then if he wins the court case he can run again. It must be remembered that nowhere in any part of Jagdeo’s mind that when he took the step of the legal challenge, he believed that the PPP could lose power. When he won the court battle in Guyana, it was too late in coming. He could not run in 2015 because Justice Ian Chang’s decision was not given in time. So he chose Ramotar.

Then Jagdeo got a shock of his life – the “unthinkable” occurred – the PPP lost power in 2015. The loss of Jagdeo’s hegemony by the defeat of the Medvedev syndrome devastated ambition of Jagdeo. A new government would appeal Justice Chang’s decision and even go to the CCJ. That is what has happened. Now for the farce. From the time he challenged the term restriction, Jagdeo had made himself a centre piece of depravity, comic strip and hypocrisy. Two ugly dimensions were graphically emboldened on the comic strip. One was the incessant assertions by Jagdeo that he was not interested in contesting presidential elections for a third time. So who wanted to remove this constitutional amendment? No one knows the answer to that question to this day. When the court rules today, we still would not know who wanted the constitutional change thrown out. Like Shaggy, Mr. Jagdeo said, “it wasn’t me.” Ramotar said it wasn’t him. None of the PPP leaders spoke in agreement of removing the two-term limitation. In fact, not one major

player in the PPP came forward and said they welcomed the court challenge. In fact, some seminal players in the PPP publicly stated that they accept the term limit amendment. The mystery is deeper than the resting place of the Malaysian flight MH370. Here is why. No one in Guyana has publicly spoken of their involvement in this court matter. The man in whose name the writ was filed, Cedric Richardson, is a puzzle too. He has not publicly spoken at all on his legal battle ever since it was in front of Justice Chang. No one knows who he really is except that we know he lives in a very modest house in Laing Avenue in South Georgetown. One can assume by his standards, he is not a moneyed man. One can assume, too, that he cannot be the financier of the three court battles - High Court, Court of Appeal, CCJ. The farce of this case became depraved when it hit the CCJ. Richardson had some expensive Caribbean lawyers arguing his challenge. Are we to believe a man from Laing Avenue in South Georgetown has an obsessive determination to overturn this constitutional amendment and he

Frederick Kissoon spends big money to do it? The answer is no. The long attempt to overturn the two-term restriction was pioneered and financed by none other than Bharrat Jagdeo himself. But the entire episode shows what a strategic blunderer he is. A most commonsensical thing to do was to get a businessman, university lecturer, engineer, an NGO head, or doctor to openly confront the constitutional amendment and to openly declare that it has nothing to do with Jagdeo wanting to run for a third time. In such a situation, the farcical nature of the situation is removed. The entire affair is indicative of Jagdeo’s power intoxication. This man is obsessed with power. He should be stopped.

Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

Govt. pays $850,000 monthly in rent despite Law Reform Commissioners still to be named The Government has agreed to pay $850,000 per month to rent two floors of a three-storey building on Robb Street, Bourda, to house the Law Reform Commissioners who are yet to be appointed. According to the agreement signed between the Ministry of Legal Affairs and Michael and Michelle Wharton, the rental is from December 1, 2017 to

November 30, 2018. When Kaieteur News visited the location yesterday, there was no signage to indicate that the Commission was located at the property. A printing, copying and office supplies signage indicated that a business occupied the lower flat of the building. As part of the agreement, the government has to pay its own electricity while the landlord pays the

water. Additionally, the agreement stipulates a security deposit of $1.7M. Government also agreed to pay the first two months of the tenancy before going into occupation of the building. According to Williams, the Commission is in its final stages of readiness. He outlined that persons have been interviewed for the position of Commissioners while staff have been hired.

The Attorney General said that interviews were conducted for Commissioners last week. The staff hired so far includes a Legal Officer, with a salary of $700,000; two Legal Clerks, $150,000 each; three typists at $130,000 each; two office assistants, $100,000 each; a cleaner, $75,000 and one driver, $120,000. The Commission is mandated to essentially

reform and upgrade all possible legislation in Guyana, in order to ensure they are in line with international best practices. However, since the passage of the Bill two years ago, to facilitate the establishment of the Commission, the work of the Legal Affairs Department towards setting up the committee to carry out the necessary functions has

been dawdling. Former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, blasted Government over the nonestablishment. He noted that no one knew how the money, which was appropriated for the Commission was spent. “In the National Assembly, we budgeted over two years ago for the establishment of a Law Reform Commission,” Nandlall said.

The building on Robb Street, Bourda, which is being rented for the Law Reform Commission

Taxi driver charged for raping girl, 14 A 37-year-old taxi driver who allegedly took a minor behind the Marriott Hotel and raped her was yesterday charged and released on $150,000 bail by a City M a g i s t r a t e . Subbashand Harichand, of 91 New Road, Vreed-enHoop, West Coast Demerara, appeared before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The unrepresented man was not required to plead to the charge, which alleged that between December 1 and December 31, 2017, at Georgetown Seawall, he engaged in sexual penetration with a child under the age of sixteen. The matter was held in camera. According to information, the taxi driver was hired by the child’s mother to take her to and from school. The defendant would normally pick up the minor from school and carry her at

the back of Marriott Hotel where they would normally spend time kissing. It was between the periods mentioned in the charge that the defendant picked up the minor from school and had sex with her in the back seat of the vehicle. Information received stated that the child’s mother went into her room and discovered that her daughter had lost her virginity on December 10, last, as a result of certain markings on a calendar. It was thereafter the child was questioned and she told her mother that she and the taxi driver had sex. The mother then went and reported the matter to the police station. An investigation was then carried out and Harichand was arrested and charged for the offence. The father of two was instructed to make his next court appearance on July 5.

Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday June 26, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Stolen cash was not found at my home Janelle Austin, the sister of Junior Stuart, one of the three men accused of carrying out a multi-million-dollar robbery at the Princess Casino, was called to testify yesterday when a trial into the offence continued yesterday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Stuart, of Kitty, Georgetown; Andre Blackman of McDoom, East Bank Demerara; and Wayne Griffith of Bagotville, West Bank Demerara, are accused of robbing Daniel Roberts and Alfea Gajadhar of $8,951,000- on August 29, 2015—property of the Princess Casino, Providence, East Bank Demerara. They have each pleaded not guilty to the charge. They are out on bail. According to police, four men arrived at the Ramada Princess Hotel in a white motorcar bearing a fake number plate. They were armed with guns when they entered the Princess Casino and discharged several rounds. They relieved a security guard of his shotgun and ordered patrons and staffers to lie on the ground. It was reported that the gunmen held a cashier at gunpoint and made off with local and foreign currency.

- says sister of robbery accused

Three of the alleged bandits reportedly escaped on foot, while police, according to reports, were able to apprehend Griffith since he was allegedly left behind in the casino. Police said that Stuart was arrested at Austin’s Vreed-enHoop, West Coast Demerara house a few days after the robbery with a large quantity of wet money and other valuables. Blackman, a former security guard at the Casino allegedly provided the gunmen with vital information about the gambling spot’s operations.

During the ordeal, Police Lance Corporal Andrew Richardson and four hotel staffers sustained gunshot wounds. Yesterday, Austin was subjected to further cross-examination by Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves. Austin told the court that on May 1, 2016, she, her daughter-in-law and Stuart were at her Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara home, when a party of policemen arrived asking for her brother. According to her, police ranks came and began pushing everybody, “It was a set of them. Some were down-

stairs and some were upstairs.” She went on to tell the court that a police rank pushed her to the ground, during

which several of them went to the upper flat of her home where Stuart was sleeping. Anxious to see why the law enforcement officers went upstairs, Austin recalled that she got up from the ground and went upstairs where she saw several police ranks kicking her brother about his body. She added, “I saw them (the police) kick him and handcuff him. The first kick he get was on the foot and he fell to the ground. Then they kick he in the back and in the stomach.” Austin went on to tell the court that police searched her bedroom, around the yard and the toilet, but did not find the

money they were looking for. She disclosed that her brother was escorted to the Vreed-enHoop Police Station. Austin recalled that some time after, a police sergeant came to her home and told her that she was needed at the station for questioning in relation to certain allegations against her brother. She said that she complied with the rank’s request and went down to the station. She said that afterwards she was taken to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters, where she saw her brother locked in a “cage” with about four other men. Austin’s evidence was suspended until Thursday.

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Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

Interns arrive in New York to volunteer with GCA’s Summer Heritage Workshop Series Through the kind courtesy of Fly Jamaica Airways, the Department of Culture, Guyana, and Roy Singh of

SCB World Realty, Clinton Duncan, Mwanza Glenn and Paul Charles, arrived in New York to intern with the

(Guyana Cultural Association) GCA’s Summer Heritage Workshop Series (SWS) and with the 2018 Folk Festival.

This is the third year young artists from Guyana will be interning with GCA. In addition to working with the young people, Clinton, Mwanza and Paul will themselves attend workshops to enhance their own artistic development. In 2017, working along with GCA’s Youth Director Clive Prowell and other members of staff of the SWS, a play written by Clinton Duncan for the closing recital entitled “Celebrating Our Indigenous Heritage” was a tremendous success. A rave review of the play made the pages of the New York Times. Clinton Duncan, an experienced writer/director, makeup artist and part time lecturer at the National School of Theatre, will again be working on the Performing Arts Module with the youth and has already written an exciting short play entitled, “The Campfire Chronicles.” The play reflects the GCA’s 2018 theme “Ma’iupe = ‘working together, THE SPIRIT OF SOLIDARITY’ within Guyana’s Festival Arts. Mwanza Glen, fashion designer, choreographer and Visual Arts teacher, will be working along with other counsellors on the Dance Module and will assist with costume making for the closing recital. Dancer, choreographer Paul Charles will be responsible for the Dance Module of this year’s SWS.

A mini health check is the first step to donating blood

For the tenth year, the Guyana Cultural Association of New York, Inc. has included an extended programme for children in its events for the season. This programme is part of the Summer Heritage Workshop Series, which is open to all children of the community. The programme is housed at St. Stephen’s Church Auditorium 2806 Newkirk Avenue, Brooklyn, New York. It commences on Monday, July 2 and ends on Friday, August 10, 2018. Each day’s activities run from 8 am to 5 pm. The programme consists of Music, Dance, Arts and Crafts, Science and Communications, as well as the module for the older students “Introduction to Film Making”, which will be conducted by the Caribbean Film Academy. The series include Music - Folk songs, folk music, ring play, gospel, music theory and practice and the history of music in the Caribbean Diaspora; Dance - Theory of movement, history of dance, dance form and meaning related to the Caribbean Diaspora, instruction and practice of specific movements; Arts and Crafts Theory of art in general, art forms related to the environment of the Caribbean, found art; Science - Science in the art of construction of toys, including kites, cooking and observation of and interaction with the environment, including space; and Communication - Understanding communication, voice and diction, action, the written word, publishing (the chap book) In addition, the activities

of each week are literacy based with a critical inquiry component. The use of an onsite library is planned. Our staff is largely volunteers as it has been in previous years and we thank them for their commitment and interest in the development of the underserved youth of our community. Other Counselors for this year include Edgar Henry, Hilton Hemerding, Raymond Bacchus, Rudy ‘ Boysie’ Bishop and Keith Proctor (music); Lear Matthews, Charles Liverpool and Selwyn Collins (Literacy); Roy Brummell (STEM); Pat Jordon-Langford (Etiquette); Nurse Claudette Howell has been the resident Registered Nurse and will be available again this year to take care of the needs of the students when necessary. Counselors in training include Yves Cazeau, Triston Isles, Jacqueline Medford and other former students over 16. The Summer Heritage Workshop Series is sponsored by New York City Council Members Mathieu Eugene, Jamaane Williams and Alan Maisel; Con Edison, Metroplus Health Plan, Fly Jamaica Airways, New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. SWS is also supported by Caribbean Vision Center, Guiding Light Construction, Edward Isaacs of the Crayola Company, The Bishops’ High School Alumni Association Tri-State Chapter, New York Tutorial Support Group and other community organizations.

Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

Pharmacists urged to strengthen relationship with consumers

Members of the public pay attention to a representative at one of the booths at the Convention. In a call for a strengthening of the bond between pharmacists and customers, Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, has stressed that the former’s intervention are pivotal to the patients’ care and wellbeing…” She noted that their knowledge and expertise place them in a position of responsibility, because of the “close relationship that you develop and share with regular patients and over-the-counter customers…. You are consulted for guidance to produce healthy outcomes.” Addressing the opening of the 18th Convention of the Guyana Pharmacists Association (GPA) held at Guyana Pegasus Hotel, Minister Lawrence noted

that pharmacists are crucial to the provision of medicine and its management. This, she said, includes ensuring patients adhere to prescribed medication and guarding against the improper circulation and use of prescription drugs and misuse of antibiotics. “Ethically, you are dealing with drugs and people; and you have a responsibility to protect your patients at all time. To dispense the medication with the dosage required and not to take advantage of the patients financially or otherwise attempt to gain economically. Your value system, accountability and transparency are under scrutiny as you provide this essential health ser-

vice,” the Minister underscored. The Health Minister reiterated that pharmacists must dispense advice that adheres to best practices, standards and guidelines that govern their profession, so that the image of GPA is not tarnished and the trust of the public is not undermined. “You have health information that can educate the people on the safe use of medicine and practices that can result in improved health outcomes,” Minister Lawrence said. Founded in 1895, GPA promotes, maintains and advances a high standard in the education of pharmacists and the practice of pharmacy.

Businessman fights off gunmen with coconut branch, taxi driver implicated Gowkarran Persaud, a businessman of 16 Section ‘C’ Cumberland, East Canje Berbice, is counting his blessings after b e i n g a t t a cked by four bandits armed with cutlass and gun at his home on Sunday after returning from a party in the wee hours of the morning. P e r s a u d ’s ordeal which was captured on CCTV video footage, began at 02:17 hrs and lasted for one minute, after he had come home with a taxi from a party. Persaud was just about to enter his yard when four masked men ran up behind him. Persaud immediately put up a fight causing the bandits to launch a

cutlass attack on Persaud who fell to the ground while fighting off the bandits. One of them had a gun and another, a cutlass. The bandit with the cutlass fired some nine chops at Persaud while another bandit stood over him with a gun. They had gained access to Persaud’s yard by opening a hole in a zinc fence in the back yard. Persaud fou g h t t o o t h and nail with the bandits and was lucky to ward off any life threatening injuries, since he was kicking at the bandits while he was on the ground. Persaud eventually managed to get up from the ground and

threw a motorcycle on two of the bandits, who at that time gave up their fight with the businessman. Persaud them picked up a coconut branch and attempted to give chase after the bandits who were fleeing at this time. They in turn fired a single shot, which caused Persaud to give up on his pursuit. A report was made to the Police and initial investigations led to the arrest of the taxi driver who was moving Persaud at the time. Three others are in c u s t o d y. P e r s a u d s a i d that he is glad to be alive, since it was he alone against the four bandits.

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Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

Unrepentant female stabber said “I catch a b**ch”

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FOR SALE 1 Transport property and 1 Hilux Vehicle. Tel# 265-3586 Spare for washing machine, suspension, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc. Call:225-9032;647-2943;6045198 Yamaha Outboard engine 250. No: 662-5524/627-8000/6556522 Two 7 1/2 Tons Air Conditioner. Contact# 6621991/641-4952 1 CAT Skid steer loader 236B $2.5M 1 Canter $3M 1 S2000 Honda Sport car $2.7M House Lots @ Blankenburg. Contact# 650-0402/603-1402 Prime Business spot in Parika 44’x500' $45M. contact# 6500402/603-1402 Gold & Diamond urgently Ekeruku Top side & Berbice River No offer refuse, cheap prices. #225-7026/690-5300 Yamaha 200 Crankshaft motor block, lower unit and everything else 9.8, 4HP motor all foreign use. #6725830

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Air conditioned room $3000 daily Fully furnished apartments $6000 daily. Contact# 223-0994/678-5827 1 (3) bedroom apt in Enmore. No: 662-5524/627-8000/6556522 PROPERTY FOR SALE Herstelling EBD One Two storey concrete building in residential area. Building is incomplete. Call: 647-1074. Price Negotiable. 1 Layton Avenue, Nandy Park Peter’s Hall EBD. Contact Carl # 613-3349 No.2 Canal WBD House & Land for sale 6 large chicken pens and fruit trees. Tel#6887291/650-2172 Lot 15 Public road #2 Vill. WCB 3 House Lots. Coconut & Mango trees 49ftx10,314ft length. Price $18M. Contact# 648-7109/686-4818 Property for sale at Agriculture road ECD Call: 639-8076

1 6" 4 piece Lavador. Tele: 6765155 Second hand furniture is on sale, call: 678-3945 LAND FOR SALE

TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS) PEN PAL Seeking Female companionship. Mr Other, Hesky Mount 92-96 Lord Street, PR81JR, England.

Parfaite Harmonie $1.4M $1.5M $2.5M Farm $3.5M Herstelling front $4M Uivlugt front $3M Call: 666-2326 Tuschen house $5.5M Tuschen Corner Lot $1.5M Diamond front $4.2M Eccles $6M Call: 666-2326 Zeelugt New Scheme, East Bank Essequibo Price $5 Million. Ideal place for business (100x60) #616-5606/ 277-0281 TO LET

EDUCATION Private Customs Brokerage Certificate Training Course starts mid July 2018, register now & save. Call: 694-8322/ 690-4225 Summer School & Lessons. Phonics, Writing, Reading After care programme 4-14yrs Nursery/Primary Full Day School. Call: 677-0296

Business spaces, top & bottom flat located @ 177 Charlotte and Alexander, Georgetown: #644-3555/6893462/679-1579 HEALTH Herbal remedies: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, Enlarged prostate, Kidney & Gall stones etc. Call Sparman #676-5924

CAR RENTAL 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 DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL:225-7126/ 226-3693DOLLYSAUTORENTAL @YAHOO.COM/ WWW.D OLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807 WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP RATES,SPECIAL OFFERS! . CALL: 690-6494

WANTED 1 Air compressor 5HP 3 Phase 230/220 volts. Call: 628-1486/698-1134. One (1) Manager to work at Hotel/Club on the Essequibo Coast. Contact# 226-9768/ 227-7528 One Sales person. Call: 6807402

Jailed: Lisa Bobb

Nigel’s Taxi Service is looking for contract cars and drivers. Contact # 699-6152/227-4885 Experience Drivers, Waiters, Cleaner, Handy boys. Apply @ Hack’s Halaal with hand written application. 5 Commerce St. VACANCY Live in waitress to work in bar. Call: 692-4649 Counter persons, Handyboy. Apply @ Shanta’s 225 Camp St. Minibus driver wanted Route 42 Tel# 685-0569/604-7018 Experienced cook with food handling certificate to work @ bar (Flexible hours) preferably from West Bank. Tel# 679-2612 One General Domestic, must know to cook. Apply @ Keyfood, next door to Post Office, McDoom.

Experience Bartenders and Cleaners. Call: 225-8572 between 7am - 9am 1 General worker (maid) 1 Receptionist, living in town, Apply with written application to Hilton Crest Hotel. Tel# 225-9211 Laborer, Maintenance workers, Farm workers, Travel agent, Cosmetologist, Security. Tel# 265-3586 Tutor/Nanny to work from 7:30 am- 12:00pm Apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb Street, Bourda

Housekeeper wanted in Trinidad to live with an elderly person, call between 10am-3pm Call: 868-705-8073

Experienced accounts/ delivery clerk. Preferable applicants 27 years & older. Apply @ Alabama Trading, 65 Robb Street Bourda.

One experience person to manage shop in the interior. Call: 231-0363 Mon-Fri (8:30am-4:30pm)

Inventory clerk to work in worshop in Georgetown #227-1717 (2) Security officers to work in Georgetown #227-1717

Driver/Salesperson must be able to drive van/truck. contact# 608-3839/231-6256 One Chief Security Officer. Contact# 696-9386 One maid; and one babysitter. Contact# 696-9386 VACANCY Cook for interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020 Data Entry/ Accounts clerk Tel# 616-5595. Email: rraghubansee@gmail.com

Experienced male sales attendant, stocktaking knowledge, computer literate, excellent service attitude, able bodied. Key Food McDoom Village. Part Time ACCOUNTANT, 2nd or 3rd Level ACCA, familiar with Quickbooks. Email application to spers@msn.com Driver & Female cleaner for office in Eccles #233-2745

Maid for East Bank area to cook and clean #614-4358 Experienced salesgirls with CXC qualifications & 2 yrs experience. Apply @ Christine’s Variety, Lombard St. Contact: 227-8529 Immediate Vacancy exist for one Ice machine operator to work shift @ Del Ice Co. Call: 231-1408/642-9191

VEHICLE FOR SALE Suzuki Escudo, excellent condition, fully loaded bluetooth, backup camera, Mag rims. Price $3M Contact# 675-7147

“I catch a b**ch and I should have killed her,” were the words of Lisa Bobb who was yesterday sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment for stabbing her cousin to the left hand. Bobb, 27, of 84 Campbellville Housing Scheme was on trial in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, for feloniously wounding her cousin. She had denied the allegation, which stated that on February 14, last, at CampbellvilleHousingScheme;she unlawfully and maliciously wounded Crystel Bobb, with intent tomaim,disfigureorcauseheractual bodilyharm. Yesterday,afterPolice Prosecutor, Shawn Gonsalves closed his case against Bobb, she was called upon to give her evidence. Bobb in her unsworn testimony stated, “I am not sorry for what I did. I catch a b**ch and I deal with her because I was provoked.” She added that on February 14 last, she was heading home from the station after she went and made a report that a guy known to her, slapped her behind her head. She added that she saw her cousin, Crystel Bobb, and she pulled a knife from her bag and stabbed her to her arm. She went on to tell the court that she does not like her cousin. Magistrate Latchman in handing down the sentence told Bobb that she relied on the evidence of the eight witnesses who were called by the prosecution on their behalf. She added that the witnesses’ evidence was not discredited. The Magistrate told the court that she believed Crystel Bobb’s story and that her demeanour in the witness box was impressive. The Magistrate further went on to say that Lisa Bobb admitted to the stabbing her cousin and she believed that on the day in question, she acted recklessly. Before passing down the sentence, the Magistrate told Lisa Bobb that, she needs to control her anger since she believed it always gets the best of her. After hearing that, she was sentenced to 12 months, Bobb began shouting, “Madam are you kidding me? Twelve months for defending myself? Are you freaking kidding me? I need justice.” She was quickly escorted out of the courtroom by two female officers. Out of the courtroom, Bobb was heard shouting “I should have killed that b**ch. I swear I should have killed her.” It was reported that Bobb saw her cousin walking on the day in question, and she pulled out a knife and dealt her several stabs to her left hand causing her to fall to the ground. Crystel Bobb was then picked up by public-spirited persons and rushed to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where she underwent emergency surgery. The court heard that the woman’s injuries were listed as serious since her wounds were severe, which caused her to be hospitalized.

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Kaieteur News

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Bandits rob Diamond couple then go to ATM and withdraw victims’ cash Gunwattie Sirpaul and Totaram Sadeek are still waiting to get justice after they were beaten and robbed at their 13th Street Diamond, East Bank Demerara, home on May 13. T h e c o u p l e ’s h o r r o r started around 01:30hrs on Sunday May 13, when bandits gained entry to their house through a kitchen window and made their way upstairs where they kicked down the couple’s bedroom door. A fight ensued between Sadeek and one of the bandits, while Sirpaul hid at the side of the bed. The bandits who were armed with hand guns eventually overpowered

the couple and tied them up. Sirpaul said, they beat them and demanded money, of which they handed over $300,000, the bandits then demanded more, which they did not have. All the while, they were threatened with death. The bandits took two cell phones, a quantity of jewellery, and a number of household items. As if that was not enough, they took Sirpaul’s bank card and demanded the pin from her. The demand was accompanied by a t h r e a t t o k i l l h e r. S h e complied. All the stuff they

stole was then loaded up i n t h e c o u p l e ’s To y o t a m o t o r c a r, w h i c h t h e y also stole. Sirpaul hands and feet were bound with a phone cord while her mouth was gagged with a pillowcase while Sadeek was tied at his arms and legs with plastic straps and also gagged with pillowcase. The whole ordeal lasted around two and a half hours, then the bandits finally left. Sadeek was the first to untie himself, after which he untied Sirpaul. They then used the landline downstairs to call the Grove Police Station.

Ranks arrived about 10 minutes after. The problems had only just begun. While the investigation was in progress, the couple got the feeling from the police that they didn’t believe their story, after a CID rank asked how Sadeek got off the plastic straps, since that was close to impossible to do. The rank also told the couple that someone in the other street only recently f a k e d a r o b b e r y. T h e couple’s car was found three days later at the back of the South Ruimveldt area, with some parts missing. What is bothering the

couple is that the bandits went to the Vreed-en-Hoop Republic Bank ATM and withdrew money from their account the same day of the robbery, which was captured on camera at 14:49 hours. They also went to an ATM in Linden and the police have been unable to follow-up on any of the evidence that they had so far received. The couple said that the police seem to be dragging their feet in this case, since there

has been two changing of ranks investigating this matter in under a month. Now there is little or no information coming out of the third rank on this matter. The couple is also contending the condition of the area contributes to a safe haven for c r i m i n a l s , s i nce the bushes to the two sides of their home are so high, if people robbing you, people can’t even know what’s going on with them.

The bedroom door the bandits kicked down, before attacking the couple.

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Bleak future has GAWU members concerned The Demerara Area Conference of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) concluded on Saturday with delegates expressing deep anxieties about the future. The Conference was held under the theme, “Protecting workers rights and benefits in a challenging period” at the Uitvlugt Community Centre. The Conference noted that the future does not appear to be bright, despite “grandeur-like promises” by the Administration’s spokespersons that conditions will be greatly improved in the country with the commercial production of oil. “Delegates pointed to the massive loss of jobs in the sugar industry and elsewhere where thousands of persons, in the last few years, joined the ranks of the unemployed. The contracting economic situation did not give delegates great hope that brighter days are ahead as concerns were expressed of the massive declines in the country’s gold and foreign exchange reserves as well as the substantial borrowing by Administration.” According to the union, which has its largest memberships from the sugar industry, the Conference in reviewing the work of the union since it last congress, received the report of the General Council, which was presented by General Secretary, Seepaul Narine. “Several matters of concern were considered as the international, local and workplace levels. At the international level, delegates also expressed their apprehensions about the possibility of a new world war and were

upset to note the heightening global inequality, increasing impoverishment, and the swelling of the global army of the unemployed.” Locally, delegates reflected on the slowing-down of the economy, the rising cost of living and increased unemployment as well. According to GAWU, delegates were also peeved at the arrangements of the newfound oil resources and were concerned that other industries were being ignored in favour of oil, which they felt was not the wisest of approaches. “On the sugar industry, delegates were particularly upset that thousands of sugar workers have been made jobless, in recent times, without any plans to address their well-being and welfare. The Conference noted that the closure of estates was not going in the right direction especially when one considers that there are real possibilities for the sugar industry to be turned around and put on a sustainable path.” The union said that the situation in the sugar industry, which is characterized by confusion, indecision, and a lack of leadership also did not escape attention. “Delegates felt that such a sad state-of-affairs was not helpful to the industry’s cause and more so the thousands of sugar workers. Critical views were also expressed regarding the disrespect and disregard of labour laws, international conventions and long-standing practices by the GuySuCo and the Government of Guyana.” The Conference also expressed its full solidarity with the workers of BEV Processors Inc., which will close the

Delegates at the recently held Conference at the Uitvlugt Community Centre. doors to its Houston, East Bank Demerara location, in a few days’ time after 30-plus years of operations. “Delegates were heartened to learn that the company was seeking to secure jobs for the soon-to-be jobless workers but also expressed their concern that jobs are hard to come by in contemporary times. The attitude of the foreign-owned Demerara Timbers Limited to the workers and the union were also criticized. Similarly, the imposition of pay rises in the public sector was also denounced as the Conference noted that the Coalition committed itself to respect the institution of collective bargaining.” The Conference also passed, unanimously, resolutions on the situation in the sugar industry; on the costof-living; calling on Government to pay redundancy pay to retrenched sugar workers without further delay; in solidarity with the jobless sugar workers; calling for the restoration of Collective Bargaining in the Public Sector; and calling for the Demerara Timbers

to engage the GAWU in Collective Bargaining. According to GAWU, some 80 delegates drawn from among the union’s members of Uitvlugt Estates, BEV Processors Inc., Noble House Seafoods

Limited, Demerara Distillers Limited, Demerara Habour Bridge Corporation, Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund Committee, Guyana Forestry Commission, Demerara Timbers Limited, and Caricom Rice Mills Limited.

The convening of the area Conference is a requirement of the union’s constitution, which mandates the organizing of two conferences between its congresses. The last congress, the 21st, was held in August 2016.

Limlair murder suspect succumbs …dies days after killing spouse The man accused of murdering his common law partner at their Limlair, Corentyne Village home on June 21, 2018 succumbed Sunday night. Imran Lyte, 30, was hospitalized at the Port Mourant Hospital after he allegedly injested a poisonous substance. Lyte, prior to ingesting the poisonous substance had viciously stabbed his former common-law wife to death. His death will serve as an open and closed case for investigators in ‘B’ Division. Meanwhile, a post mortem examination conducted on the body of the victim, Tovonnie Simmons, by Government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand

Finally! - The long-suffering residents, of La Parfaite Harmonie, WBD, said to be the country’s second biggest housing scheme, are finally getting phones, thanks to GTT’s Blaze Campaign, which include phones and internet service.

Simmons and Lyte in happier times. Brijmohan, at the New Amsterdam Public Hospital revealed that she died from shock and haemorrhage due to multiple stab wounds about the body. Simmons was attacked by Lyte, Thursday night, at her home in the presence of her mother and the assailant’s sister. Reports from the police had stated that approximately 23:20 hrs, Simmons was at home with her mother Jacquelyn Henry, 55, a vendor, when Lyte arrived to discuss an issue that had occurred on Sunday, 17th June between himself and the dead woman’s brother. It was during the discussion about the issue that an argument erupted between Lyte and Simmons. He report-

edly whipped out a knife and dealt several stabs to the mother of four. In her bid to escape, she ran to the verandah and plunged over. She managed to get up from the fall and at that point began running. Lyte, however ran after her and slit her throat. He subsequently escaped in an easterly direction towards the backlands and reportedly ingested a poisonous substance. Meanwhile, Simmons was picked up and rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival. She had sustained 12 wounds to various parts of her body. Lyte and Simmons leave to mourn their four children 8, 6 and a 3-year-old twin.

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India face NZ on triple-header opening day in Women’s World T20 ESPNcricinfo - Defending Champions West Indies will take on the winner of the World T20 Qualifier under lights on a triple-header opening day on November 9 in the Women’s World T20 in the West Indies. India women and New Zealand women kick off the tournament at Providence Stadium in Guyana before threetime champions Australia women face Pakistan women at the same venue later in the evening. The West IndiesQualifier 1 clash, which will also be hosted by Providence Stadium, will round out the first day. Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, meanwhile, will host the two semifinals on November 22 as well as the final on November 24. Notably, the Decision Re-

view System (DRS) will be used for the first time in a World T20 tournament and for the first time, the Women’s World T20 will be a standalone event, after the previous six editions were organised alongside the men’s World T20. Hosts West Indies are placed in Group A along with 50-over World Cup Champions England, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Qualifier 1. Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Qualifier 2 make up Group B. With two spots up for grabs, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Ireland, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Thailand, Uganda and United Arab Emirates will fight it out in the Women’s World T20 qualifiers in the Netherlands from July 7 to 14.

West Indies Women celebrate after beating Australia Women in the final. (Getty Images)

Tuesday June 26, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Too many projects to complete might have you feeling just a little bit pressured. However, your innate determination is likely to drive you on to try to get it all done even if it seems impossible. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You've been doing well, Taurus, but today you might be feeling more focused than ever. The path ahead seems clear and well defined. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) The astral energy indicates positive financial news. A settlement, grant, or bonus of some kind that you've anticipated for a long time may finally manifest. You might want to celebrate. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today you'll put a lot of energy into business, personal, or romantic partnerships. They're likely to be especially beneficial now LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Too much work and the resulting pressure over the past few days could have you feeling too tired to do anything more, Leo, although your optimism and enthusiasm are still intact. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Romance blossoms for you tonight, Virgo, perhaps after a long period of standing still. A new sense of stability and security may settle on love relationships and close friendships.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Tonight you might host a social event in your home, perhaps for business associates. You could be nervous at first. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Paperwork, perhaps contracts or other legal documents of some kind, might need attention so you can move ahead with some of your projects. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) The financial picture continues to improve, Sagittarius. At some point during the day, you might have the feeling that you aren't working hard enough to keep the forward motion going CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Even though all continues to go well for you, Capricorn, your mood may go up and down today. In spite of all the great things in your life, you might find yourself feeling a little blue AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Trying to get too much work done in the course of one day might prove self-defeating today, Aquarius. Your energy isn't what it usually is, and you're probably operating on nervous energy. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A depressed friend may need cheering up. Your ability to nurture and listen sympathetically will prove beneficial, Pisces. Take care not to absorb any of this person's dejection.

All 23 matches are set to be broadcast live and will be played across three venues Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, Darren Sammy Stadium in St Lucia and Providence Stadium in Guyana. In addition to hosting the triple-header on the opening day, Providence Stadium will also host two marquee clashes: India v Pakistan on November 11 and Australia v New Zealand two days later. Group A: West Indies, England, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Qualifier 1 Group B: Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Qualifier 2

No mercy... From page 32 thought about it, but that’ll be our main goal - to make it Messi’s last World Cup game,” he said. “As much as we love watching Messi play, there’s only one option and it has to be that he plays his last game here in St Petersburg.” Idowu added Nigeria would have to be very wary of giving away fouls close to their penalty area given Messi’s ability from dead ball situations. “The main important thing... is just don’t make stupid fouls near the box. We’re going to be aggressive but avoid the unnecessary fouls near the box,” he said. Skipper John Obi Mikel has a small fracture in his left hand but should be able to play with a protective cast, while Rohr is also concerned that his team have had a day less to prepare than Argentina.“We know that this will be a hard battle,” the German said. “They have to win. Perhaps a draw can be enough for us but it’s not sure. We also want to win, so it could be a very spectacular football game tomorrow.”

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Uruguay expose Russian bear as mere toothless teddy VATUTINKI, Russia (Reuters) - Hosts Russia and their expectant fans were given a brutal reality check yesterday when Uruguay exposed the weaknesses in the side that had been papered over in the uplifting victories over weak Egypt and Saudi Arabia in World Cup Group A. The South Americans outclassed the hosts in every department to cruise to a 3-0 victory, secure top spot in the group with three wins and send their hapless opponents back to the drawing board ahead of the knockout stage. The Russians, who were playing with 10 men for almost an hour, had no chance against the first strong team they had encountered in the tournament, after their early wins had created the impression they could go far. Uruguay, controlling possession and playing the ball around confidently, exposed the hosts for what they are — the lowest-ranked team in this World Cup. The Russian defence constantly struggled with the speed of Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez, proven talents on the world stage as opposed to the Saudi and Egyptian players the Russians had put eight goals past. In attack, their firepower was concentrated in the soli-

Uruguay’s Luis Suarez scores their first goal with a free-kick. (REUTERS/David Gray)

tary frustrated figure of Artem Dzyuba, who pleaded desperately with his teammates for more accurate passing and delivery as they wasted every single set piece, either too wide or too long. But Dzyuba is not a striker capable of turning a match single-handedly like Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo

or Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku and he was beaten in every aerial battle by world-class defender Diego Godin. Meanwhile, the Uruguayan machine, so well oiled by Oscar Tabarez even after making four changes to the team that beat the Saudis, delivered a lesson in efficient attacking football,

with battling Rodrigo Betancur orchestrating their fluid game. Two goals in the first 23 minutes and a red card for Russia a little later killed off the game early. Russia were badly missing their own midfield ace Aleksandr Golovin, rested for fear of another booking

that could have seen him miss the next game. Coach Stanislav Cherchesov had made two more changes but they also backfired spectacularly, with Igor Smolnikov sent off in the 36th minute after a second booking, and Fyodor Kudryashov equally overworked in de-

fence. While Uruguay are brimming with confidence after keeping a clean sheet in a three-match World Cup group stage for only the second time, Russia must somehow bounce back fast if they are not to exit the tournament much quicker than a nation dreams of.

20 Wkts tumble on day of inept batting Windies crash to lowest total at Kensington ... From page 30 Test to an Asian side.Silva (17) played a loose drive and edged a catch to the keeper to leave the score 118-6 as Gabriel got his 20thwicket in this series. Dickwella drove Roach sweetly through cover for four before Perera edged the fiery Gabriel for a boundary and stroked Cummings past mid-on for bullet like boundary on the slowish outfield before flicking the Bajan pacer for four in the same over. By the first water break Sri Lanka were 145-6 with Dickwella nine short of his tenth half-century and Dilruwan Perera on six before the innings took a nose dive. The next four wickets tumbled for just nine runs as Holder struck thrice before Kumara (0) was run out in comical fashion. Holder removed Dickwella at 147-7, while Kemo Paul got his first feel of Test cricket when he took the catch as substitute to dismiss Lakmal for a duck without addition to the score. Perera’s stump was sent cartwheeling when he was on six with the score on 149-8 but the review showed that

Holder had overstepped by a fraction of an inch but Kasun Rajitha (0) was bowled in the same over at 150-9 before Kumara was run out as the innings closed at 16:27hrs. When Windies began their second innings, with a lead of 50, Devon Smith’s nightmare series concluded in spectacular fashion when his middle stump was sent for a walk off the second ball from Lakmal before he had scored at 1-1. Smith made 1,095 runs in the Regional First-Class season and his demise yesterday emphasised the low standard of Regional cricket. Things got progressively worse when Kraigg Braithwaite (2) was caught at short leg off Lakmal before Shai Hope’s struggles continued when his off stump was sent cartwheeling for a second ball duck off Sri Lanka’s fastest bowler Kumara as Windies slumped to 9-3. By the first break, the Windies were 13-3 and after the interval Kieron Powell was hit on his helmet by a nasty lifter from Kumara, while Roston Chase (5) was caught

Perera is taken by a stretcher to the Ambulance after he crashed in the advertisment board last night (Sean Devers photo) at slip playing a ‘nothing shot’ off Lakmal to leave the Windies on 14-4. Powell (7) got a thin edge to a pull and was caught down the leg-side off Kumara as Windies slumped to an embarrassing 14-5 and once again it was left to Shane Dowrich and Holder to dig their team out of a hole. Dowrich got going with an enterprising cover drive as Lakmal pitched up and pulled for another boundary when he bowled short, while Holder square drove Kumara for four but was hit on his Helmet when he missed a hook next ball.

It was sad to witness the discomfort to bouncers shown by West Indian batsmen for those who grew up watching Fredericks, Kallicharran, Greenidge, Haynes, Richards, Richardson, Lloyd and others who hooked anything short with contempt and disdain. Dowrich, just after joining Deryck Murray, Jeff Dujon, Denesh Ramdin and Ridley Jacobs as West Indies Wicketkeepers with 1,000 runs, was undone by a short ball from Rajitha. Rajitha then got rid of Devendra Bishoo for a duck as Windies slumped to 41-7

to equal their lowest total made against England in Jamaica 2004. Holder, who hit three fours in his 15, edged Rajitha to second slip at 56-8 but Roach and Cummings contributed crucial runs before off-spinner Dilruwan Perera induced Cummings (14) to edge a wild swipe at 82-9. Gabriel clobbered Lakmal to long-on and Kusal Perera crashed into the advertisement board as the ball went for six and after not moving for almost 10 minutes, Perera was taken by Ambulance to the Hospital. A

second break was taken with Windies on 88-9. Sri Lanka, set 145 to win lost Mahela Udawatte (0) LBW to Roach at 9-1, while Gunathilaka hit four boundaries in 22 before he was removed at 30-2 by Holder who soon bowled Dhananjaya de Silva (11) to 48-3. Holder struck again to remove Roshen Silva (1), while Mendis was dropped off Holder on 15 and along with Dickwella added 23 before Dickwella (1) was bowled at 74-5. Sri Lanka survived to the end. Scores: WEST INDIES 204 (Jason Holder 74, Shane Dowrich 71; Lahiru Kumara 4-58, Kasun Rajitha 3-68, Suranga Lakmal 2-52) and 93 (Kemar Roach 23 not out; Kasun Rajitha 3-20, Suranga Lakmal 3-25, Lahiru Kumara 2-31). SRI LANKA 154 (Niroshan Dickwella 42, Danushka Gunathilaka 29, Kusal Mendis 22; Jason Holder 4-19, Shannon Gabriel 3-52, Kemar Roach 2-30) and 81 for five (Kusal Mendis 25 not out, Danushka Gunathilaka 21; Jason Holder Jason Holder 4-21).

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Twenty more Cricket Clubs receive Cricket balls from Berbice Cricket Board - 70 Clubs benefit to date with $800,000 worth of balls

Representatives of the Clubs pose with BCB President Hilbert Foster and Anil Beharry (back row right). A committment to assist every cricket club in the Ancient County with cricket balls came closer to being fulfilled as another twenty clubs on Saturday last received their balls from the Berbice Cricket Board. The committment was made by newly elected President Hilbert Foster and to date seventy clubs have benefitted from $800,000 worth of balls from the project spearheaded by Foster and his predecessor Anil Beharry. The project was launched on the 29th April, 2018, with a donation of $300,000 worth of red and white balls to twenty two clubs.

That donation was spearheaded by the Berbice Cricket Board President, while Beharry has singlehandedly raised over $500,000 from close friends and relatives. Among the Clubs who received balls from the Berbice Cricket Board last Saturday were Police, Sisters, Betsy Ground, Rose Hall Tigers, Jai Hind, Tain Block Four, Ramnarine Memorial, Belvedere United, Tucber Park, Goed Bananen Land, Big Star, Mount Sinai, Courtland, Flying Star and Sisters. The Berbice Cricket Board expressed gratitude to Beharry, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of New Building Soci-

ety for his hard work and also for being a true friend of Berbice Cricket. Foster, stated that the ambitious project was launched after he realised that most clubs would struggle to participate in the numerous cricket tournaments that would be organised by the Berbice Cricket Board in 2018 at the different levels. Tournaments would be held at the Under-15, Under-17, Under19, Under-21, Female, Intermediate, Second Division, First Division and Internal Zone levels. Foster also disclosed that twenty two clubs also received over $1M worth of

cricket gears, stumps and scorebooks while he and Beharry would also be working together to assist promising young cricketers with their own personal cricket gears. Beharry expressed delight at being able to contribute to the development of Berbice Cricket. The Banking Executive, who served as the Berbice Cricket Board President from 2016 to 2017, stated that cricket is in the blood line of every Berbician and is one of the safest way to keep youths off the road. He stated that all he did was to put up a personal plea to friends via his

Facebook Account and the response was overwhelming. He stated that Berbicians including himself had full confidence in the current leadership of the Berbice Cricket Board and was willing to assist in any way possible to return Berbice Cricket to its legendary days. Representatives of the Clubs expressed gratitude to the Berbice Cricket Board and Beharry for the assistance. One Representative hailed the massive development that Berbice Cricket has enjoyed over the last four months since the election of the Hilbert Foster led administration.

The Berbice Cricket Board and Beharry would like to express gratitude to the following persons who have contributed financially to the Balls Project: Brian Chunilall, Noreen G a s k i n , Ya s i n Mohamed, Randall Patterson, Derick Beharry, Renwick Batson, Bobby Kewlachand, Pamela Kewlachand, R &M Rebels Mathura, Gummel Matai, Danny Somai, Faizal Jafarally, Javed Raffik, Sean Devers, Vijai Dass, Leanna Bachan, Imran Saccoor, Allan Mangru, Rakesh Soopersaud, Nazim Hussain, Owen Humphrey, Surendra Hiralall and Sharmila Muneshwar.

GFC beat GCAA in Foreign Affairs Tapeball final The Guyana Forestry Commission defeated the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority to win the final of the Foreign Ministry Sports Committee Tapeball final which was contested on Sunday at Durban Park Tarmac. GCAA batted first and made 85-6 in six overs, while GFC responded with 86-5 in 5.1 overs. GFC received the Global Marketing Trophy, medals and cash, while GCAA collected the Ink Plus trophy. Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation chalked up 40 games to win the dominoes competition which was played on Friday last at Ministry of Agriculture canteen. They received the Prime Minister trophy, medals and cash. Supreme Court B were second with 39 games and they pocketed the Ink Plus trophy and a cash prize, while Ministry of Public Health finished third on 38 games.

The winning GFC team collects their prize from Organiser James Lewis (left) after the action.

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Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Coaching Programme

Fifty six spinners benefit from Spinners’ Clinic

The fifty six spinners pose with Coach Winston Smith. The Berbice Cricket Board on Saturday last hosted a highly successful Coaching Clinic for young spinners as part of the countywide Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Coaching Programme. A massive turnout of 56 spinners drawn from across Berbice attended the Oneday Clinic which was conducted by Level III Cricket Coach Winston Smith. Berbice Cricket Board President Hilbert Foster, who is spearheading the widespread coaching project, stated that the Board had ca-

tered for about 30 spinners and was shocked at the large turnout. This, he proudly stated is an indication that Berbicians once again have confidence in the operations of the Berbice Cricket Board. The offspinner clinic followed two days programmes in Upper Corentyne and Lower Corentyne along with a Oneday Clinic for Wicketkeepers and Fast Bowlers. Twenty wicketkeepers and thirty six fast bowlers attended the two clinics respectively. The programme would close off

with a batting clinic and Twoday Sessions in New Amsterdam and West Berbice. Foster, in brief remarks to the fifty six young spinners, pleaded with them to take advantage of opportunities given to them. The Berbice Cricket Board, he stated is unmatched across the Caribbean for its investment into the development of its youth players and this would continue as long as he remains President of the Berbice Cricket Board. Foster, stated that the clin-

ics were also part of the Berbice Cricket Board early planning for the Guyana Cricket Board junior Intercounty season at the Under15, Under-17 and Under-19 Male and Female levels. The Berbice Cricket Board would use the next six months to prepare the best and strongest team at each level with the major objective of winning every tournament. Head Coach Winston Smith stated that he concentrated on finger and wrist spin and work was done on bowling over the top, side spin,

back spin, run-up, grip, release, follow through and target bowling among others. Smith disclosed that he was able to identify at least twenty four youths with good potential to become the next Devendra Bishoo, Mahendra Nagamootoo or Veerasammy Permaul. Smith expressed gratitude to the Clubs who are working along with the Berbice Cricket Board by sending their best players to the Clinic. The Clubs include Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Albion, Port Mourant,

Rose Hall Canje, Upper Corentyne, Kendall’s Union, Blairmont, Tucber Park and No. 73. The Berbice Cricket Board would like to express gratitude to Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh for his sponsorship of the programme, which is assisting the Berbice Cricket Board to unearth new talents across Berbice. Among the spinners at the Clinic were Kevin Sinclair, Karran Arjpaul, Keith Simpson, Seon Glasgow, Jonathan Rampersaud and Jeremy Sandia.

Flying Stars overcome Farm to claim GSL Unity Cup final Flying Stars defeated Farm to win the final of the Guyana Softball League Unity Cup which was contested on Sunday at Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara. Batting first, Flying Stars managed 36-8 off their allocation of five overs with Martin Singh scoring 15. Farm were limited to 31-9 in reply; Rawle Reid made 11 with all wickets falling via run out. Farm beat Omesh XI by six wickets. Omesh XI made 49 all out in 9.1 overs, while Farm responded with 53-4 in 7.3 overs. Reid struck 32 with four sixes; Michael Mentore cap-

tured 3-4 in two overs. Flying Stars got the better Cane Grove by one wicket. Cane Grove posted 80-4 with Muneshwar Jainarine scoring 41 not out with five sixes. Flying Stars replied with 81-9 in 9.5 overs. Martin Singh got 15 as Muneshwar Sewkaran snared 3-15. Queen of the boundary scored 29-1 in five overs against All Stars who responded with 18-3 in the female final. Sachin Jagnarine (Cane Grove) and Narine Shaw (Crossbreed) were the most consistent batsman and bowler respectively.

The victorious Flying Stars team.

Tuesday June 26, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Captain Fantastic, Stanton Rose, marshals Guyana to double overtime victory over SVG CBC men’s championships

By Calvin Chapman in Suriname in association with Mohamed’s Enterprise, Bounty Farm and Hopkinson Mining Guyana and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) played what may turn out to be the most exciting game of the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) men’s championship, last night at the Anthony Nesty Sporthal in Paramaribo. The Guyanese followed up their 29-point thrashing of Grenada on Sunday night with a gutsy victory over the SVG side that were identified as the strongest in the group, thanks to a stellar performance from their teenage skipper Stanton Rose who netted a remarkable, game-high score of 41 points that was decorated with an impressive nine three-pointers. Better shooting, spearheaded by three consecutive three-pointers from Alexis Foyle had allowed St. Vincent & the Grenadines off to a positive 26-18 (eight-point) lead at the end of the 1st quarter of play.At the half, St. Vincent extended their lead to nine points as Guyana missed some open shots and turned over the ball unnecessary. Coach, Junior Hercules did excellent against the SVG

Ray Victor goes to the basket for a layup during Guyana’s win over SVG last night. who capitalised on their height advantage well during the first half of the game and during the quarter he made some changes and gave his troops new instructions to counter the height factor of SVG and that coupled with i m p r o v e d shooting,(especially beyond the three-point arc) forced

Guyana back into the game. With three minutes on the clock before the final period of play, Travis Belgrave won two free throws and sunk both to put Guyana in the lead after the men in green had trailed for the majority of play. However, Belgrave’s two from the line was a rarity and if the Guyanese hadn’t

struggled from the free throw line where they hit 13 from 34 attempts, the game would’ve been a different narrative as the third quarter finished 6262. The final period of play was extremely exciting, giving the sparsely seated fans at the Anthony Nesty Sporthal and the local fans at home view-

ing the livestream on local television, plenty to cheer about as both teams matched each other shot for shot. And, when the fulltime horn blew with the score at 81-81, the neutral fans were happy to see more of the action. Overtime was not enough to separate the two teams and it entered double extra time 9696 for a tied score at the end of three consecutive period of play before the Guyanese closed it off with a gritty 104102 win. Ray Victor who contributed a valuable 15 points; hitting them when Guyana needed it most, was ecstatic after the victory, “It was a do or die, we resting tomorrow (today) so we gave it our all,” the British Virgin Islands based player exclaimed. Meanwhile, Coach Hercules noted that St. Vincent had the bigger players which Guyana countered through fast plays, which weren’t working during the first half because his players weren’t sinking enough shots but he explained that switched tactics and “heart” allowed his troops to claw their way back into the game. From four years ago in the Tortola hosted CBC Championships where SVG defeated Guyana to condemn the Golden Arrowhead to last

place, this is definitely a remarkable improvement with Guyana winning their first two group games. “A few players are banged up but I’m hoping that they recover and our rest day tomorrow (today) should help. Going forward we are not going to change much of our playing style but I think we can shoot better, especially from the free throw line,” Coach Hercules explained during the post-game press conference. “Stanton has a very high game IQ, the best among all the local players, we are happy that we made him the Captain, he makes good plays and decisions, he is very solid and he has demonstrated that he is our leader. His sneakers were soaked from relentless running but he didn’t complain nor did he want to rest, he just pushed through,” Coach Junior Hercules on Rose’s heroic performance. Guyana will play Suriname on Wednesday night from 21:00hrs in what is expected to be another exciting match up with Guyana unbeaten and Suriname with the backing of the local crowd.Earlier results from yesterday saw Barbados defeating Bermuda 87-78, while Antigua & Barbuda made light work of Montserrat 87-66.

Windies v Sri Lanka 3rd Test

20 Wkts tumble on day of inept batting Windies crash to lowest total at Kensington By Sean Devers in Barbados In association with Carib Beer, Noble House Seafoods, Vnet Communication’s & Bounty Farm Twenty wickets tumbled for 229 runs on a day off poor batting by both side as Sri Lanka ended the third day of the third and final Test at the Kensington Oval yesterday holding a slim advantage going into the penultimate day today. Niroshan Dickwella hit six fours in 42 and got support from Danushka Gunathilaka, who hit three fours and a six in 29 and Kusal Mendis 22 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 154. Skipper Jason Holder captured 4-19 from 16 overs, while Shannon Gabriel had 354 and now four wickets short of joining Michael Holding had 24 in the three-Test in 1981 in Australia. Kemar Roach removed the openers on the second day to finish on 2-30. Windies, with a lead of 50, tumbled for 91, their lowest

ever score at this venue; falling short of the 94 against England in 2004 and their eighth lowest Test score. Only Roach (23*) reached 20 in an embarrassing batting display as Lahiru Kumara took 2-31 to take his tally in the series to 17. Kasun Rajitha (320) and Suranga Lakmal (3-25) supported for Sri Lanka who were 81-5 by the close, still 63 runs away from victory with Mendis (25) and Dilruwan Perera (1) at the crease. Holder has 4-21 so far to follow-up his four wickets haul in the first innings. Earlier, on a day blessed with glorious sunshine Dickwella and Roshen Silva resumed with Sri Lanka, on their fifth tour to the West Indies and first Test in Barbados, on 99-5 and a handful of fans saw them survive the first half hour with responsible batting. Batting on a track that provided pace and carry and a lush green outfield, the pair fought hard as a strong wind blew across the ground where West Indies had never lost a (Continued on page 28)

Jason Holder celebrates with his team-mates, West Indies v Sri Lanka, 3rd Test, Barbados, 2nd day, ©CWI Media

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Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition After knocking out former champs New Amsterdam Kings in the quarter-finals, West Berbice’s Trafalgar was in no mood to accommodate any resistance in the final as they romped to a lop-sided 40 win over Lichfield to be crowned the new champions of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition which ended on Sunday, at the New Amsterdam (NA) Stelling Tarmac. Played before another large crowd that included Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste, Outdoor Events Manager Mortimer Stewart, Berbice Branch Manager Joshua Torrezao and Banks DIH staffers among others, they were l e d t o v i c t o r y b y Ry a n Schultz, who fired in all the goals to ensure that the latest title holders not only cart off the top prize of $400,000, but also secure a spot in the national playoffs. Schultz’s quickness was always going to be a bother for Lichfield and he opened the scoring in the third minute, racing down the centre of the field, before firing past the last stop into the right corner. Three minutes later, he returned this time displaying his true skill to weave past tackles, before slamming a fierce shot into the empty goal to make it 2-0. Lichfield looked game and determined, but their lack of offensive buildups made it one-way traffic and everyone knew it was just a matter of time before

Tuesday June 26, 2018

Kaieteur News

Trafalgar new champs of B/ce Zone

Banks DIH staffer Fraiche Kendall hands over the first prize and winning trophy to Trafalgar Captain Adrian Price in the presence of Brand manager Lee Baptiste (extreme left), Outdoor Events Manager Mortimer Stewart (right) and teammates on Sunday. Trafalgar stretched their lead. However, Lichfield’s defence held their nerves and nullified every other offensive threat, before the half time whistle sounded. With all to play for in the final period, Lichfield had to take chances, coming forward in numbers, but this tactic was always going to be a dangerous one and so it proved as Schultz took full advantage of the opposition’s strategy to punish them.

Racing onto a through pass on the left side, Schultz eased into centrefield, before uncorking a powerful shot into the lower right corner. Lichfield for their efforts walked away with $175,000 and the runnersup trophy. In the third place playoff, Hopetown squeezed past Outsiders 1-0 through a Marvin Robertson fourth

minute strike. They were presented with $100,000 and a trophy, while Outsiders took home $75,000 and the corresponding accolade. Earlier, in semi-final action, Trafalgar survived a spirited fight from Hopetown, before prevailing 2-1 on sudden death penalty kicks. This was after normal time ended goalless.

O n the other hand, Lichfield defeated Outsiders 2-0. Carlos Grant netted a brace in the 22nd and 26th minutes. Meanwhile, the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Bartica leg is slated for July 14, 15 and 16. Complete Results Guinness Goal-(GG)-2 Final Lichfield-0 vs Trafalgar-4

Ryan Schultz-3rd, 6th and (GG)-38th 3rd Place Outsiders-0 vs Hopetown-1 Marvin Robertson-4th Semi-finals Game-1 Trafalgar-0 vs Hopetown-0 Trafalgar won 2-1 on sudden death penalty kicks Game-2 Outsiders-0 vs Lichfield-2 Carlos Grant-22nd and 26th

No mercy for misfiring Messi, says Nigeria coach ST PETERSBURG (Reuters) - Nigeria have no sympathy for the struggles of Argentina striker Lionel Messi at the World Cup and will do everything they can to bring his tournament to a premature end when the teams meet in St Petersburg today. Argentina, bottom of Group D, need victory to progress to the knockout stages and must also hope Iceland do not beat Croatia, because that could send them out anyway, depending on goal difference. Nigeria, second in the group, will advance if they beat Argentina, while a draw may also prove to be enough even if third-placed Iceland beat Croatia. The match may be Messi’s last at a World Cup if his team do not escape their

group. The 31-year-old has so far struggled to make an impact, missing a penalty in the 1-1 draw with Iceland and being marked out of the game in the emphatic 3-0 defeat by Croatia. “We love this great player Messi, everybody loves him. But the question for us is not if it’s the last World Cup for him,” Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr told reporters yesterday. “We are not here to watch him play. We’re here to get a result. We are professionals and we have to defend the colours of Nigeria. In football there is no mercy, no pity. Everybody wants to win.” Defender Brian Idowu, who joined his coach at the news conference, said Nigeria’s only choice was to try and bring Messi’s World Cup to an end. “I never (Continued on page 27)

Action in the Berbice Guinness final which Trafalgar won.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 26, 2018

PAGE 33

BCB President, First Division Teams host successful meeting - Umpires and Clubs receive donations

Representatives of the First Division Clubs received their cricket caps.

N

ewly elected President of the Berbice Cricket Board Hilbert Foster accompanied by Berbice Cricket Board Secretary Rabindranauth Saywack hosted a highly successful Pre-season Meeting with First Division Clubs. The Meeting was held at the Albion Community Centre and was attended by nine of the eleven Clubs. Those in attendance were Upper Corentyne, Skeldon, Port Mourant, Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Albion, Rose Hall Canje,

Tucber Park, Police and Blairmont. Young Warriors Cricket Club and West Berbice were absent without an official excuse. The Berbice Cricket Board President in Opening Remarks, stated that the First Division Season would start as soon as the rainy season ceases and Clubs are able to get their grounds in order. The first season at the moment would consist of a Double Wicket Tournament along with 20/20, 40-Overs and 50-Overs Tournaments. The Berbice Cricket Board at the request from a

Representative of the Albion Cricket Club promised to look into the possibility of hosting a Two-Days InterClub Tournament. Foster stated that the Berbice Cricket Board intends to strengthen the First Division level and to make it very competitive. Clubs who fail to rise to the occasion would be left behind as only the best would be allow to be part of the highest level of cricket in Berbice. Foster stated that some Clubs are unable to win one match at the junior or Second Division level but still

Ninvalle for AIBA Abu Dhabi EC meeting

playing at the highest level. Clubs with immediate effect would have to get their houses in order and the Berbice Cricket Board President unveiled a series of Rules that has been followed with immediate effect. These include submission of a First Division list with a minimum of twenty names, the naming of a Cricket Coach for the Team, while Clubs would also be required to have a functioning Executive body. Other requirements include uniforms for the entire team, regular practice sessions, while every First Division Team apart from the Police Club, would be required to have a youth development programme in place. After discussions with

the teams it was also agreed that walkovers shall be granted half hour after the scheduled start of play, that teams who arrive after the scheduled start of play shall forfeit the toss, while teams shall be fined for deliberately wetting the pitch to delay the start of play. Foster also announced that in 2019, the Berbice Cricket Board would most likely put a system into place to demote teams who perform poorly or below the require standard. Representatives of all the Clubs present committed themselves to placing emphasis on lifting the standard of the First Division level. Foster expressed disappointment that no representative from Young

Warriors Cricket Club was present, despite the Club being informed numerous times. The Club also did not turn up to receive a donation of cricket balls earlier in the day from the Berbice Cricket Board. The Board handed over twelve First Division Caps to each of the teams to be used for the Ansa Mcal SKYY Vodka 20/20 Tournament and the rest of the 2018 Season. The Berbice Cricket Board also handed over a quantity of Polo T/Shirts and broad rim hats to the Berbice Cricket Umpires Association. President of the Berbice Cricket Umpires Association Joseph Simon expressed gratitude to the Berbice Cricket Board for the timely assistance.

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resident of the Guyana Amateur B o x i n g Association Steve Ninvalle will depart Guyana next week to attend an AIBA Executive Committee (EC) meeting in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The meeting was first scheduled for Baku, Azerbaijan but was shifted to the gulf state approximately two weeks ago. The EC meeting will be held from July 11 to 14 and is expected to be the last gathering of the current EC before elections, slated for Moscow, Russia early in October. AIBA has 203 affiliated countries over nine thousand boxers and five thousand officials but has been in turmoil in recent times following the resignation of Taiwanese Dr. Ching-Kuo

Steve Ninvalle Wu last October. Since then the body has had two interim presidents with the present Gafur Rakhimov of Uzbekistan being accused by the USA of having ties to the drug trade. The International Olympic Committee has

since threatened to pull boxing from the 2020 Olympics if AIBA does not reform. In 2014 in South Korea, Ninvalle became the first person from CARICOM to be elected to the Executive Committee of the 71 year old AIBA.

BCB Secretary Robby Saywack hands over donation to BCUA Secretary Moses Ramphal.

rt o p S CBC men’s P. 31 championships

Captain Fantastic, Stanton Rose, marshals Guyana to double overtime victory over SVG

Stanton Rose on the up during one of his enterprising plays during his 41-point win last night.

Uruguay expose Russian bear as mere toothless teddy P. 28

Windies v Sri Lanka 3rd Test

20 Wkts tumble on day of inept batting Windies crash to P. 31 lowest total at Kensington Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition

Uruguay’s Luis Suarez celebrates their first goal with teammates. (Reuters Dylan Martinez)

Trafalgar new champs of P. 32 B/ce Zone

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