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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
OUTRAGEOUS AND APPALLING
T
he controversial Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed between the Guyana government and ExxonMobil has been in the headlines in this and other publications for months. Since the contract was released to the public, it came under intense and relentless scrutiny from experts, politicians and Guyanese from all walks of life. The criticisms were so unrelenting that the President was prompted to say that while there is no prospect for a review of the contract, the matter was engaging the attention of Cabinet. Such confusing remarks have infuriated many, but others were hopeful that there was a chance that the government would convince ExxonMobil to renegotiate the contract. After the glaring flaws in the contract were duly exposed, one would have thought that the government would be humbled and listened to the people, acknowledged its shortcomings, and let the nation know that its failure to get a better contract was because of ExxonMobil’s refusal to renegotiate the 1999 contract signed by the PPP government. Oil was not discovered when that contract was signed, but with the discovery of oil in 2015, the government should have forced ExxonMobil to negotiate a totally new and fairer agreement. ExxonMobil would have either agreed to renegotiate the contract or leave. Choosing the latter option would have allowed the government to engage other oil companies. This government does not have any experience in negotiating an oil and gas contract with a multinational such as ExxonMobil, which has a wealth of experience in contract negotiations, and cleverly used that to exploit the poor negotiating skills of the government negotiators. Consequently, the paltry two percent royalty and the meagre US$18 million signing bonus which the government managed to squeeze from ExxonMobil is negligible. Since the discovery of oil, ExxonMobil stocks have increased significantly on the global exchange. One estimate put the amount at between US$16 billion and US$22 billion. It is clear that ExxonMobil has benefited immensely from the contract, which states that the laws of Guyana are ancillary, because they are inconsistent with the rules of international customs and laws with regards to the petroleum industry. That said, numerous calls from prominent individuals and oil experts, including the petroleum adviser to the President, Dr. Jan Mangal, to renew the contract, have been rejected. The Minister of State has said that the contract is final and will not be subject to any changes. This shows that inclusionary democracy in Guyana is a farce. The truth is, oil does not belong to the government, it belongs to the people. The forfeiting of Guyana’s oil and gas resources to the US oil giant amidst the loud and growing concerns of an uneasy public is now being tempered by the prudent pronouncement by the Minister of Natural Resources, who said that the government will hire an overseas firm to guide and advise it on how to market the unassigned oil blocks. While this will appease many, others believe that it came too late. Instead of hiring a foreign company to market the unassigned oil blocks, the government should assemble a bipartisan committee to do so. It is hard for anyone to believe that a government with so many lawyers would accept such a contract. History will judge this government harshly for not heeding the words of one of our late presidents who said: “We have seen in Guyana and in other underdeveloped countries how foreign extractive industries prosper while the native population remains poor and destitute. We must get the large share of the cake; otherwise what is the difference between Guyana and a colony. What would we tell our children….Assistance we shall accept, partnership we shall welcome, but the show must be ours, we will dictate the priorities and the directions, we shall rely primarily on us…That is self-reliance.”
Saturday March 03, 2018
‘Exxon & Guyana’ Critics Must Look A Little Further DEAR EDITOR, Most of the criticisms with the EXXON contract are based on understandable logic, but we must look a little further. I criticized the oil contract on the basis of its benefits to our welfare, but now the critics have plunged themselves into an area that I can best use the metaphor of gender to clearly illustrate. The critics have descended to a female ‘slop can’ yard buse out that is driven by a not all the truth considered, emotional gossip driven surge. The current critics lack the suggestions for a way forward. They have not provided any indication on how it can be adjusted from their rational perspective within the confines of that Industry. We cannot present an exclusive lobby of criticisms founded exclusively in the
‘Republic of Georgetown.’ Expanding the landscape require a short historical memory of our post independence history. The prospect of oil is not new to Guyana, but it was deferred by a hazy claim by Venezuela that cannot even be used rationally on a board game. Yet it was enforced to keep any investment from happening, because Venezuela could physically do it. Its nationhood is over a hundred years ahead of us; a population of some twentythree million with, by the terms of the CARICOM group, a robust military, air force, and navy. It has the manpower and the wealth. We had the curse of the inherited ‘Six Sisters’ that we never had the resources to expand their byproducts. We eventually became a
market economy under Hoyte, but the cost of oil had already demolished our manufacturing sector. Our business sector is largely comprised of services, and wealthy vendors with real estate. We became a HIPC [Highly Indebted Poor Country] under the PPP. When EXXON came on board initially in the Jagdeo years, Venezuela intercepted that development with destroyers, as did Suriname with CGX, in what I considered a sinister collaboration to keep Guyanese impoverished. Oil contracts are not easily prudent as the history demonstrates, nor is EXXON child’s play. But at the recent conclusion of the massive Oil Conference I saw Chris Ram on TV with a relaxed and optimistic expression concluded that “We will all benefit”. The ultimate benefit to me is a conclusion of the Venezu-
elan border dispute, that has become entrenched political mythology in that country, enough that though both Chavez and Maduro described it as a colonial anomaly. Neither had the courage to kill the myth, and myths are hard to kill when legally politicized. I know that this Government will continue to engage EXXON. The evidence that oil is a turbulent modern economic phenomenon rests in the fact that it was only in May 2015 that African countries held a policy dialogue meeting at the UN Conference Centre in Addis Ababa on the challenges faced with petroleum and mining contract negotiations. Our situation is unique, but we are not alone. Regardless, we will be liberated economically by our oil resources. Barrington Braithwaite
The Exxon critics are not jokers DEAR EDITOR, Concerned and patriotic citizens who have publicly condemned the unconscionable contract between the Government of Guyana and the corporate predator, ExxonMobil, have been arrogantly dismissed by certain Ministers of the APNU+AFC administration as ‘jokers’ or mere oppositionists. OVP applauds those who have the courage and willingness to speak out against this plunder of our precious natural resources by government invitation. We are certainly not the jokers. Many of the letters I have
read in the local press from those who are supporting this ludicrous deal are written by persons already singing for their supper. I deem those persons to be the actual jokers. I will go as far as to say that any support for this contract can only be described as apathetic and cowardly attempt to throw dust in the face of intelligent Guyanese. While these political factotums are certainly entitled to their sordid opinions, they are unable to deny the selfevident truth based on hard facts. That truth is, that this contract is not only immoral,
outrageous and unpatriotic, but is tantamount to treason. I am eagerly waiting for any minister or leader of the APNU+AFC administration, or those in the leadership of the PPP, to dare tell the citizens of this country anything about patriotism and sovereignty. It is just more of the downright eye pass that we have seen from this government, and the previous PPP government. Their strategy of dismissing serious analysts, commentators and true patriots as ‘jokers’, mere oppositionists, people with an unrealistic
worldview, etc., is wearing very thin. This type of dismissal is typical of people who are unable to challenge ideas using intellect and wisdom. Is this world gone mad, what these satraps of Empire and Corporate America once attempted to dismiss and discredit as militant and extreme, is today seen by the masses of people, in Guyana and globally, as mere common sense. And surely it is time for some common sense to prevail. Sincerely, Gerald A. Perreira Organization for the Victory of the People (OVP).
A recurring issue involving this security to preparing a Security Risk and could not provide the guard service Analysis/Security Survey. evidence requested. DEAR EDITOR, Is there provision in the law assessing penalties for late wage payments and failure to pay minimum wage, overtime and leave passage to security guards? The manner in which some security service providers have been and are behaving with regard to paying their guards late, short payment, not paying minimum wage, leave passage and overtime to their security guards leaves one to conclude that these security service providers have no compassion. There seems to be no provision in the law in Guyana that assesses penalties for the aforementioned hence the plight of the guards in Regions Five and Six. This is a recurring issue and there really seemed to be no end in
sight. I am in sympathy with the guards a majority of whom are women who are single parents. They undoubtedly have a multiplicity of problems. Many employees in Guyana who are not guards but live a pay cheque to pay cheque existence would have empathy for these guards. Roll over of payment to the next month by Integrated Security Service (ISS) is not a recent anomaly but a recurring issue. ISS was and is still providing security coverage for the Ministry of Education Department of Culture Youth and Sport and its multiple locations when my company bid for the Ministry contract in 2016. I conducted a site visit to two of the Ministry’s location in Region six with a view
While there, I learnt from the guards that they have ‘never been paid on time’. Back in Georgetown, the guards at the National Gymnasium and National Cultural Centre repeated what the guards in Region Six said. I sense that many of the guards will not report because they are afraid of a possible repercussion. In the Evaluation Criteria of the Bid Document, service providers are asked to submit evidence of established financial capacity or credit arrangement or bank statement representing a minimum value of 25% of bid price. ISS is not a startup company; it has been in existence for a number of years providing security coverage to Government agencies. I would hate to think that this company is not financially healthy
Did ISS submit the information and if not, why not? Why this information is needed is self explanatory. Did ISS submit an extract from its payroll to prove that it was in compliance with the National Minimum Wages for security guards? If not why were they not asked to submit same? In December 2017, this company was awarded two multimillion dollar contracts, one in Region Five and the other in Region Six but to date it has not been paying its guards on time and has been paying them $225 per hour instead of $255 per hour. The Bid Document would state that the contract “will be awarded to the bidder whose bid is determined to be substantially responsive (must obtain all ‘Passes’) and who (Continued on page 6)
Appreciation for prompt cleanup action DEAR EDITOR, This letter serves to express my heartfelt thanks to those responsible for the ‘clean-up’ action taken at the corner of Princes and Russell Streets, on February 14. I am grateful that someone in authority listened to my appeal for help. I am assuming that the Government of Guyana in conjunction with the City Council was responsible for the ‘clean-up’ effort. We are truly appreciative of your intervention in this matter.I was pleasantly surprised two weeks ago, when I saw a group of individuals, whom I assumed were City Council workers, turn up with an excavator and chain saws and commenced clearing up
all the debris, which was so much that they had to work almost the entire day to complete the task.The restoration of the “Garden City” could indeed become a reality sooner than later, if cleaning the city is consistently done with the diligence that that group of individuals exhibited. However, as I pointed out in my previous letter, the cooperation of all citizens is necessary if the Capital City is to be restored to its former glory.The only challenge that remains for us, the residents of the Princes and Russell Streets environs, is the unoccupied lot that is not being cleaned by its owner. If the owner continues to be negligent regarding the cleaning of her property, it
will, once again attract delinquent persons who dispose of their garbage. Now that the place is clean the individual I spoke of in my previous letter who collects garbage from business places and burns it there, is not doing it anymore, but can we say that he has stopped? As long as the vacant property remains with the bushes on it, it gives him the chance to burn garbage in between the bushes at the back of the unoccupied lot. So, we still could be bothered by the smoke. Several reports were made, but to date, no action has been taken. This individual is being inadvertently facilitated by the owner of the unoccupied lot. (Continued on page 6)
Is City Hall a Mafiosi den? DEAR EDITOR, No one should be surprised, not even the motion mover and seconder, by the recent and alarming declaration made by a senior politician and Georgetown City Councillor, who said that an Alliance For Change (AFC)sponsored no-confidence motion against Town Clerk of Georgetown is likely to be defeated because A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Councillors were not properly consulted. I have not heard such utter nonsense muttered by someone who ought to know better in a long time. Did the AFC and APNU not enter the Georgetown Municipality as a coalition party? Why the differentiation now? Is this political elder and rabble rouser saying that his party members who are Councillors are unable to vote with their consciences but rather are shackled to toeing the purported party line, at the expense of the city and its citizens? Come on, this is 2018 not
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the 1960s. But the question to be asked is whether his declaration was made purely out of self- interest? In the interest of awareness and understanding by our readers of what obtains at City Hall and how immoral they are there, it should be noted that both gentlemen, the subject of the no confidence motion and the Councillor who is advocating that the motion be defeated due to him and his colleagues not being properly consulted, are both members of the notorious ‘Fantastic Four’ or ‘Fabulous Four’ gang which has now become the ‘Terrible Trio’ or the ‘Terrific Triumvirate’ gang with the recent demise of one of their cohorts. Let’s face it, whistleblowers are hardly lining up to rat out the mob. Not members of the clan, not exmafiosi with a bone to pick, not victims of extortion rackets. Why? Because of the ancient tradition of omertà, the unwritten code of honor that you’ll never utter a word
about the Family, or expect retaliation. Fear has kept organized crime a flourishing industry for decades. And everyone knows that The Georgetown City Council over the last two and a half to three years has become a gangster’s paradise. This brings us to the question that has been asked for years now by members of the legal fraternity and that is whether you encourage someone to kill, whether you are guilty of murder? In the interest of the Town Clerk not being given a “Get out of Jail Free’ card by some politicians for reasons best known to them in spite of all of the well known offenses that he has committed and which are prudently enunciated in the motion, I ask that all Councillors do as John Quincy Adams once said and that is “Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost. Best regards. Sambu Jacobus
Ramjattan lacked decorum DEAR EDITOR, I believe it is the second time that the nation has witnessed Minister of Public Security and Second Vice President abusing and accosting the media in the most vulgar fashion. On both occasions, it was during working hours. The Minister was on duty; the Minister knew cameras were on him and recording devices were recording him. Yet, he exercised no restraint. He was bold enough to tell them that he is free to use expletives. From all indications, this Minister acted deliberately and intentionally. I wish to compare Ramjattan’s outburst with that of former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs infamous recorded conversation with a Kaieteur News reporter. From my recollection, Nandlall claimed that he was having a private ‘gaff’ with a person whom he knew from school.
The conversation was not during working hours, not on a working day, he was not giving an interview and he did not know that he was being taped. However, Ramjattan and a whole host of organisations and individuals both in and out of politics demanded Nandlall’s head on a platter. These condemnations came almost every day calling for his resignation. Kaieteur News carried this story front page for nearly two months. I must ask where are all those voices of righteousness now. The Bar Association, the Women Lawyers Association, Kaieteur News, Red Thread and even some of Nandlall’s own colleagues. What Ramjattan has done is far worst, as he did it officially and intentionally. The double standard and hypocrisy in this country are sickening. Yours faithfully, Riaz Allly Mohammed
Private school or terror camp? DEAR EDITOR, It is with great displeasure that we must make these matters public in hopes that the right people may be able to act upon our complaints. The Academy of Excellence (private school in Cornelia Ida) has been treating pupils and parents in the most demeaning way for a number of years. The school has been performing very well at the Grade Six Assessment over the past few years but at what cost? The cost of our children’s mental health!! Our children are subjected to extremely long hours of work with barely a lunch break or recess time. Grade Six pupils, in particular, attend classes from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with only a half hour lunch break and two fifteen-minute breaks during the day - sometimes. They also attend Saturday classes from 8:00am to 4:00 pm. There is no play time or “down time” for these children as they are bombarded with homework. In addition, there have been no extracurricular activities done for the past year— no Phagwah or Diwali programmes, no sports day, no market day, no Christmas concert where there should be a break in the academics.
Now, the HM of that school is by far one of the most unprofessional people one would come across at an educational institution. No parent can ever approach her with a concern and be satisfied. When voicing a concern, parents are usually verbally abused, with her then ending the tirade with “tek yuh pickney an go!” Bear in mind that she sits at a table on the main floor in full view of approximately five classes so this ranting and raving is usually witnessed by all teachers and pupils on the flat. Another matter of grave concern there, is the constant flogging of the pupils, from Nursery all the way up to the grade six classes. These pupils are there to learn, not to be terrorized on a daily basis. There are two teachers (Ms. Serena and Ms. Chandanie) especially, who are also a part of the school’s management, along with the HM, who inflict blows on the children. Some children are beaten while being verbally abused for simple matters such as handwriting not being perfect or for simple mistakes such as adding wrong or misspelling a word. One young lady was embarrassed to the point where
she urinated right there in the classroom during this harassment. Another child received so many lashes in her hands that they were black and blue. The HM begged the parent not to take the matter to the police so as to avoid conflict with the teacher (Ms. Chandanie) who is guilty of the act. These two teachers would also embarrass the children over a matter of which they have no control — the school fees. One child was harassed by Ms. Chandanie because her parents did not pay school fees on time. The child was told “Your mother knows how to dress up and walk but she can’t pay your school fee. I shouldn’t even teach you, because you didn’t pay anything for the past two months.” Is this the behavior of a teacher? One such instance was reported to officials at the Ministry of Education who told us that they do not look after private schools. Now, with regards to the school fees, the HM (Continued on page 6)
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Phagwah was celebrated by festival of colours is made the day. all Hindus The popular with non Hindus parThe occasion was celDEAR EDITOR, Our Guyanese, Hindu brothers and sisters across the length and breath of Guyana, were happy that, Phagwah or Holi had been celebrated by all the Hindu organizations on Friday 2nd March, 2018. Phagwah was celebrated, forty days from the planting of Holika (castor oil tree). The festival signifies the victory of good over evil and spring marks the ending of winter.
ticipating. The burning of Holika took place on the evening of Purnima (full moon) Thursday 1st, March,2018 and thereafter the actual celebration began. On the morning of Phagwah, Friday 2nd March,2018, all mandirs or temples had their services (pooja), singing of chowtal and the commencement of playing with clean water, colour of abeer, abrak, power and sharing of sweet meat
From page 5 was present at every Grade meeting last year to ensure that she stresses the increase in the fees is not her doing but the Government imposing VAT on education. She had told us that she has enough money, that she doesn’t want more by raising fees so we must take the matter up with the Ministry of Education and whoever else. However, now that the decision to pay VAT has been revoked, this school continues to have its parents pay
the fees with the increase. When parents approached the HM and the management, we were told that we want money “to do nails and hair and walk.” The HM told us that the school fees were raised — its NOT VAT that was added on. By the way, everything increased — from the school fees to the registration fees, the uniform material and even the photocopied books which they sell. Since the inception of the school, there has never been
ebrated with the true meaning and spirit of Phagwah. I take this special opportunity to commend the Guyana Pandits Council, who worked assiduously with other organisations to make our main festivals a reality, by observing on the same date by all organisations. Thanking you for publishing my letter as early as possible. Yours Truely, Parmanand Ram.
Private school or terror...
a revenue stamp attached to any of the receipts. Too many LIES! Too many SCAMPISH ways! This madness has to stop. We are pleading with the Ministry of Education and Child Protection Services to please step in and see what can be done for our young ones. How can children learn in such an environment? They are fearful daily when it is time to go to school. Concerned and fed up parents.
Appreciation for prompt...
From page 5 This is not happening anywhere else in the street because residents are residing
on their properties and are keeping them clean. When Mr. Royston King implements the Council’s
plan to treat with negligent property owners, that property would indeed be the ideal place to start. Heartfelt “thanks” once again to Mr. Royston King and the City Council for your involvement in the clean-up effort (provided my assumption is correct). I know that the Council is strapped for cash and cannot do as many things as it would like to do, but you made this situation, one of priority. Thanks to all involved! Arthur Taylor
Saturday March 03, 2018
Rejecting statements by Ras Leon Saul and Guyana Rastafari Council DEAR EDITOR, Haile Selassie I Theocracy Reign Ivine Order of Nyahbinghi wishes to thank all those media houses that supported our efforts to bring to the attention of the Government of Guyana the plight of the Rastafarian community. This community is blighted by an unjust marijuana law, that for almost three decades has sent thousands of young people to prison for possession of small amounts of marijuana while in countries around the world marijuana is legalized and small amounts decriminalized. This law has destroyed young black families, bringing to our communities the negative social effects such as single parent families, hunger , teenage pregnancy, trua n c y, i l l i t e r a c y, homelessness, child abuse, prostitution, criminal activi-
ties and hopelessness. This is what brought out the large number of persons who braved the burning sun to march from Buxton to Square of the Revolution for “Liberation Through Marijuana Decriminalization”. The people have suffered for too long. It’s time to release the chains. However, political statements threatening the Government made by RAS Leon Saul and Guyana Rastafari Council are not the views of the members of the House of Nyahbinghi who organized this march. We support the Government in its efforts to develop this nation and are willing to sit at the table with representatives of Government to ensure changes to the ganja law as was promised by members of the present Cabinet while in opposition. We do not want a politi-
cal war; we need a Government that seeks to protect the rights of the Rastafarian community to be allowed to use the Holy herb for their sacrament and medicinal purpose. We will never be happy to see our brothers and sisters being incarcerated for a spliff. We demand equal rights and Justice for our people Rastafarians and all those using marijuana. The House of Nyahbinghi will Observe the UN designated “ WORLD GANJA DAY” on Friday 20th April 2018 with a walk from Parade Ground to the National Park where a Food Fair and Cultural Presentation will be held featuring local and foreign artistes. RAS AARON BLACKMAN Professional Social Worker /Poet, Secretary House of Nyahbinghi.
From page 4 has offered the lowest price”. It is critical, therefore, that the bid be as low as possible while still covering all costs and generating a reasonable profit. How many service providers factor in base wage, overtime, uniform costs, transportation, training, vacation pay, meals, management fee, margin, etc to arrive at their hourly rate, failing which some companies are unable to pay the minimum wage, employee NIS, PAYE and honour other obligations. Again the document states that the company must submit adequate information
on the qualification and experience of Key Personnel (Provide detailed and signed Curriculum Vitae for all key personnel); manager and supervisors must have military training. Are they ex military? If not and did not submit financial evidence from his/her banker and detailed signed Curriculum Vitae, then it stands to reason that ISS did not obtain all passes. If my memory serves me correct, the Bid Document would have requested Technical Approach, Methodology and Work Plan; was this submitted? Can you imagine a com-
pany that has been in existence for a number of years has a finance section that is incapable of preparing proper pay slips for the security officers, problems computing their wages and management failure to address guards’ concerns in a timely manner? This no doubt speaks volumes of the lack of leadership, its professionalism, its ineptness and its ability to provide the requisite guard force training to the guards who in turn are expected to provide an excellent customer service to the aforementioned regions. This is not possible when you have an inept management team demoralizing its rank and file. Some people are wondering, based on what we have been reading about this company and remarks made by the guards, if an investigation should be conducted by the Public Procurement Commission to ascertain if there is enough evidence to point to collusion in the award of contracts for Regions Five and Six to ISS. Julius Williams
A recurring issue involving...
20 months later…
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Govt. still awaits NICIL transactional audit from Auditor General
It has been over 20 months and the coalition administration is still waiting to receive the transactional audit that was initiated by the Audit Office of Guyana into the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL). This was confirmed yesterday by several government officials. It was the coalition administration which had passed on the instruction for the Audit Office to conduct the transactional audit. The audit was carried out as a result of the damning findings stemming from a forensic audit into NICIL by Chartered Accountant, Anand Goolsarran. During the audit, Goolsarran discovered that in relation to expenditure on the 2007 Cricket World Cup, NICIL had transferred amounts totaling $650 million to the Local Organizing Committee, but failed in its responsibility of ensuring that there was proper accountability for the amounts transferred. As regards the construction of the controversial Lot 44 High Street, Georgetown property, formerly home to the Guyana Broadcasting Corporation, the forensic auditor found that the contract was awarded in 2007, but the building remained substan-
ment and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) in the assessment of tenders received for the award of contracts. Instead, the assessment of bids was done internally and would have lacked the level of independence, especially for large projects
Auditor General, Deodat Sharma tially incomplete. Goolsarran stated in his report that the building was abandoned, and the structure was expected to be torn down because the floors were not constructed to the required specifications. As the “Project Executing Unit,” he said that NICIL’s role was to ensure that the works were executed according to the agreed specifications, and the entity had again failed to discharge its respon-
sibility for this project, resulting in some $350 million of taxpayers’ funds being w a s t e d . Goolsarran, in his report, also stated that despite the size and complexity of its operations, NICIL does not have its own procurement rules, which is a key requirement of the Procurement Act. In the circumstances, he said that it would have been more appropriate for NICIL to involve the National Procure-
Female Bartician is new President of Mining Syndicate A female miner from Bartica, Region Seven, has been voted in as the new President of the National Mining Syndicate (NMS). According to the body, on Thursday it hosted its second election where Cherryl Williams, a miner of 28 years, was elected as President. Williams who hails from the mining town of Bartica, replaces Renwick Solomon, who served in the capacity of President for one year. “She brings to the post a wealth of experience, having being involved in the mining sector for almost three decades.” Williams’ team comprises Troy Duncan who was voted in as Vice President, along with Carol Nurse, Dana Jones, Michael Bacchus, and Carol Fredericks, who were elected to serve as Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, and Assistant Treasurer respectively. Additionally, seven persons were elected to serve on the new Executive
New President of the National Mining Syndicate, Cherryl Williams Committee. An elated Williams said, “I feel privileged to be elected not only as President of the National Mining Syndicate but also as the first female
President.” The miner said she understands that her role is not to be taken lightly and acknowledged that much work has to be done to take the syndicate and by extension miners forward. “Much has to be done and I am up for the challenge,” said Williams who thanked the past President and the Committee members for the work in 2017. “This new Executive promises to continue working towards the ‘good life’,” Williams stated. Meanwhile, immediate past President Renwick Solomon congratulated Williams and committed to supporting her, as the new Executive leads the mining syndicate which was established last year. The NMS elections took place at the Girl Guides Pavilion located on Brickdam, Georgetown. The syndicates were launched several months ago to help miners pool resources and operate in specific areas.
such as the Marriott Hotel. Given the aforementioned findings among others, Goolsarran recommended that Government commission a further independent audit to examine in detail, transactions over the last six years under NICIL.
He also recommended that the relevant authorities institute criminal/disciplinary actions against all those responsible for other violations, including the failure to properly account for State resources under their control.
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No way should an int’l airport be regulated by an operator - Aviation operative on OAI The issues affecting aviation companies operating at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport are piling up. The operators at that port are complaining about the advantage being taken upon them. They speak of the astronomical rental fee being charged, the disadvantageous distribution of lands and general misuse of state land by one family—the Correias. Many of these issues seem to be ignored by the government, despite some being in direct violation of the master lease signed between Government and Ogle Airport Inc (OAI). OAI is the company that runs the airport. This company is controlled by the Correias—primarily Michael and Nicole Correia. The Correias also own at least three companies operating out of the Eugene F Correia International Airport.
These companies are Trans Guyana Limited, Correia Mining Company and Caribbean Aviation and Maintenance Services. It is being reported that those companies are given first preference to lands and other services provided by the airport. An aviation operative insists that the present management and governance structure of the airport is in need of attention as “it is unheard of an international airport being regulated by an operator”. Operators are complaining that all regulations and facilities are being instituted and erected in favour of the Correias and the many companies it has operating at the airport. Recently, there have been complaints about OAI using investors’ money to develop a car park for one of the other Correia-controlled companies—CAMS. OAI is in control of 441 acres of state
land which it has been leased for 25 years - extendable for two further periods of 25 years. The land was leased in 2003 without any public notice. There was no public transparent process, neither was there a public bidding process. Recently, former government Minister Manzoor Nadir spoke of the generosity of the state in leasing the lands to OAI and contributing to the development of the port. He said that as a result, the nation should be benefiting more. OAI’s public relations consultant, Kit Nascimento later responded, saying that the state did not invest a penny. He said, “Phase I of the development under the Lease Agreement was successfully completed in 2009, when scheduled passenger operations commenced. Not a penny of state money was
invested.” However, the facts say different.The Government of Guyana, during the reign of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) expended just about $30M to relocate squatters during phase one of the airport project. Phase two was financed by a grant of €1.5M from the European Development Fund to the Government of Guyana which was converted into a soft loan to OAI with a generous long term repayment schedule. The Government also made significant investment in the Air Traffic Control tower to the value of $50M. Further, the government expended $187M to relocate the NCN tower from Sparendaam in order that the airport could be cleared for international flights The Ministry of Public Infrastructure resurfaced the road from Railway Embank-
OAI Director, Michael Correia ment to Ogle Airport. All the government services provided, such as the Guyana Fire Service, Air Traffic Control, Customs, Immigration and Police are all funded by
the State. As recent as two weeks ago, the Guyana Energy Agency installed solar panels on the terminal building at the Airport.
Ruling party launches manifesto ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada - CMC – The ruling New National Party (NNP) yesterday launched its manifesto for the March 13 general election outline plans it said would transform the island to become the economic power house of the region. “I am confident that we have the most solid and comprehensive plan for growth,” NNP leader and Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell told the launch attended by members of the business community, trade union movement and supporters. “The NNP’s vision and plan for social and economic development will continue to deliver positive results in every sector whilst protecting our heritage and values,”
the NNP said in the 52 page document, titled “Keep Moving”. It notes that the party if re-elected to government would encourage dialogue with all social partners as “key contributors in our developmental process”. The NNP said that it would continue to build the economy so that “job creating economic growth and sustainable development will be guaranteed, investor confidence will be continuously encouraged” and that “every child will have an opportunity to have quality primary, secondary and tertiary education that is relevant”. Mitchell told the ceremony that the NNP, which
won all 15 seats in the 2013 general election, said “we have delivered on jobs and economic growth, and we have delivered on hope. “We have kept the core of all of our promises that have brought us back from the brink of economic catastrophe. Grenada is back. And that is why our slogan this cycle is — Keep Moving. That is the basis of the vision we now share. One of growth; and one of progress,” he said. Mitchell said that a modern society will have to enhance its health care services and make good healthcare, affordable and accessible, saying “that is the idea behind the national health insurance.
Friday March 02, 2018
Kaieteur News
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SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK;Guyanapassport application. G r a p h i c s design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6004212: We create A/works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Budhram’s Landscaping & Tree cutting service. Free advice, Free design, Free after care follow up. Tel#626-1044 Repairs to refrigerators, gas stoves, A/C units, washing machines. Call Lindon: 6411086/ 694-2202 Austin Powers Repairs & Services: Regas Fridges, Freezers, AC, Washer, Dryer & Wiring. Lot 114 Brushe Dam Friendship. E.C.D Tel#685-2588/613-1711 House plans and estimates. # 6 1 3 - 5 6 2 8 / sirachenterprises@gmail.com Bucket truck with driver/ operator for rent. Banners/ CCTV, street lighting, work at height. Call: 642-9447 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Desmond Repair Services Fridge, AC, gas stove, microwave, washer, etc on the spot repairs –Call: (592)678-8683 Eagle’s: Re-gas –low prices, washing machine repairs, gas stove, plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/646-0966 Installations, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc call Nick 627-3206, 630-1600
Kaieteur News
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Supari palm, Lipstick, Royal, Foxtail. Exora 4 for $1000 Ficus 4 for $1000. Organic potting soil. Tel: 626-1044 Parts for Tacoma Tundra Titan for sale. Tel#686-9608. 1- Caterpillar skid steer 3.2M 1-Leyland daf cement mixer 2.2M 1-canter 3.6M Land at Blankenburg 2.9M Contact #650-0402/603-1402 6000 pound ice box (1) 48 Yamaha engine 13.4 length fishing vessel. Four hundred pound sein. Tel#690-8089 Video games and consoles at affordable price. Repairs to video game system .Call:6722566/265-3231 (1) new Mistubishi canter with excellent conditions with type of engine 4msl, long base, 2004 model, contact: 6967664 1- 320 BL cat Excavator 1- 215 B cat Excavator 1- 428 cat Back-hoe 1- 450 Honda Atv. Contact: 275-0367, 683-7225 1 Double steel wheel roller 1Pneumatic roller 1- Leyland Daf truck 1- Hand spray bitumen kettle. Contact: 2750367, 683-7225 1-320 CL- Bucket 1, Hydraulic pump 1, 4 Hydraulic Ram. #628-1832 Use Daff 620 truck parts. Contact: #650-0402/603-1402 3500 running watts champion generator. Price: $200,000 negotiable. Tel: 696-7246 or 684-7863 1 Transported property at Covent Garden Island EBD. Tel#265-3586 Unregistered DAF trucks: Dump trucks, Flat Bed, Flat bed with Crane & Hauler. Call: 659-3100
FOR RENT
WANTED
VACANCY
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620
One Industrial Electrician. Tel# 227-1717
Hair station & Barber station rental, New market street #638-1106. Experienced persons preferable.
Vreed-en-hoop junction. Lessons place, church, storage bond, office, other. Call: 603-6400. Fully furnished two bedrooms apartment in providence & three bedroom in Diamond. Tel: 672-1906, 216-2299 (1) downstairs for rent for supermarket including living quarters (preferable Chinese) @ Lot 171 Section B Non Pariel ECD. Tel#629-4764. (1) two bedroom apartment @ 529 Section ‘B’ Block ‘X’ Great Diamond EBD lower apartment, price negotiable. Tel no: 216-4200, 685-7935 (3) Bedrooms house to rent in (Lamaha Gardens) 2 1/2 Bath, fully air conditioned US$2000. Tel#653-7961/ 6749244
TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)
1996 Yamaha Virago Motorcycle 750cc Tel# 6612998
Experienced articulated dump truck drivers to work in the interior. Kindly contact: 223-7165 for futher details. Experienced Sand Truck Driver. Apply to Christine’s Variety Store, Lombard Street or Call 227-8529, 626-8003. Experienced Handyman, porter all below 40 years. Apply with written application. Keyfood McDoom Village. Experienced General Manager to operate stringer (string gold) in the interior. Contact number: 223-7165 Land to buy in Parafaite Harmonie, Eccles, Uitvlugt, Tuschen,Covent Garden, Herstelling, Diamond, Providence & Zeelugt. Tel#686-9608 One nail technician please call: 647-8268 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic- Call: 223-7500 Monday to Saturday 8:15am4:15pm Log truck driver to work in Buckhall. Call: 664-6062
VEHICLE FOR SALE 2011 Raptor fully loaded 4x4 Auto excellent condition blue 6.2 litre super charged. Tel# 610-5370
Chainsaw operators to work in the interior. Contact: 2237165 Security to work with mining firm, must have experience in said field Ages 38-45. Contact: 500-5923/676-8764
Long base canter GRR series 2 million hydraulic lift tray good condition Tel# 609-1040 Primo motor car, Mag rims, C lights, in top condition 2005 model, late PSS series. Phone: 638-8797, 328-7659
Experienced hire car drivers at Princess Ramada Hotel. Call: 265-7076 or 616-5419 Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665
2 unregistered canterMitsubishi Fuso 3 tons hyab canter $6M , Mitsubishi 2 ton dump canter $3M #628-7981
1 5-bedroom house 570 Good Hope ECD, 4 Self-contained rooms #225-3234
Bluebird 2012- 2.6M Axio2.5M Tida-2.2M All vehicles unregistered and have reverse camera. #655-3400
One fully furnished apartment to rent in South Riumveldt $25,000 weekly. #694-7817, 668-0306
1 AT 170 car EFI good condition $280,000. Tel#6014929, 664-5444
2 Bedroom apartment in Eccles. Tel: 225-3234.
New Triangle truck tyres, front & all wheel drive, size: 295/ 80R22.5 Call: 647-2022 (1) Gas generator 560 (1) Diesel Generator 650 (1) Compressor 350 (2) 93 Toyota Hilux pickup (neg) Contact: 682-8424
Saturday March 03, 2018
SALON Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. -CosmetologyCourses:$90,000 Nail Technician Course: $35,000. Call: 647-1773/6880009
TOLET
Lodge apartments (Vlissengen/Durban): unfurnished $40,000-$60,000 p/m, furnished US$600-1000 p/m 668-7687/677-9638/6976421
DRESSMAKING Classes in Designing and Sewing as a hobby or career. Call Sharmie (Canadian trained) # 676-6312
CAR RENTAL
PROGRESSIVE CAR R E N TA L : S U V F O R RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL:6435122/656-0087, Chef, Assistant chef, Cashier ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO - Waiter call: 611-5615, 225- RENTAL@YAHOO.COM 7933 or visit us at 173 Sheriff DOLLY’SCARRENTAL-CALL: street. 225-7126/226-3693 KITCHEN ASSISTANT DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ ( H O U S E K E E P I N G YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DAYSHIFT) REQUIRED AT DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM AAGMAN RESTAURANT. CAR CONTACT: 219-0158 AIDAN’S BETWEEN 9AM - 5 PM RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD (WEEKDAYS) FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY Accounts clerk- knowledge of OUTINGS, CHEAPEST NIS,PAYE,VAT and RATE . Call: 698-7807 QuickBooks. Call: 614-4358 WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN Female cleaner for office in PAYMENT, CHEAP Eccles. Call: 233-2745 RATES,SPECIALOFFERS! . Experienced sales persons CALL: 690-6494 with CXC qualifications. Apply @ Christine’s Variety, Lombard Street. Contact: 2278529/626-8003 Vacancy for sales girl. Apply in person to Alabama Trading 65 Robb Street Bond. 1 Security, Farm workers, maintenance workers, labour. Call: 265-3586 8am-4pm For Civil Engineer must have 8 years or more experience, call for appointment #6287981, 672-3409 Experienced male sales attendant, stocktaking knowledge, computer literate, excellent service attitude, able bodied. Key Food McDoom Village. One maid with cooking skills and one cleaner helper. Call: 231-0734 1-Grillman hrs 4:00pm1:30am, 1 mature nanny livein , 1-kitchen asst. 8:00am5:00pm. Contact X’s Grill & Cuisine 675-2550 10am5:30pm
EDUCATION CXC adults classes (Business & Science subjects) Form 1-5 lessons, Grade 2-6 lessons (slow learners, personal tutor) #690-5008,618-0649 Electronic classes beginning March 6th. Enroll early, limited spaces. Abdul Electronics. Tel: 226-6551/ 225-0391.
LAND FOR SALE Sophia front 3.5, Corner 4.9, Herstelling front 5M. Land of Canaan 6 per acre. Call GME 231-2199, 618-7483. Parafaite Harmonie, Eccles, Uivlugt, Tuschen, Covent Garden, Herstelling, Diamond, Providence, Zeelugt. Tel# 686-9608 Eccles $7M Farm $3.5M Uivlugt $3.2M Parafaite Harmonie- $1.5M $1.8M & $2.6M Schnoord- $3M. Tel# 656-0701/611-7223 18,731 acres mining land Gold & Diamond Mazaruni $5,000,000 USD Contact: 6951356, 687-8445 Parafaite Harmonie main road 2M 1.5M Parafaite (10) year up 3M 3.5 Eccles 6M Uivlugt 2.8M Call: 604-6724 Parafaite Harmonie 2.5M 3M 1.5M Eccles 6.5M Providence 4M Uivlugt 3M all price negotiable. Call: 666-2326 100 acres agricultural land, right bank, Barima river, NWD, Essequibo. #668-7687/ 677-9638 Land @ Tuschen Housing Scheme, near school, 3 minutes away from main road. Call: 0011-407-491-2026 email: gzplayter@aol.com PROPERTY FOR SALE Land with small 2 bedroom wooden house in Diamond 4th Bridge, Price $5 Million. Tel: 690-6327/603-3949 Lot 15 Public road #2 Village. West Coast Berbice. 49ft by 10,314ft. $20M. Contact:6487109/686-4818 Continued on next page
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME OF JUDICATURE OF GUYANA CIVIL JURISDICTION 2017HC- DEM- CIV- SOC437BETWEEN :-In the matter of the Estate of IGNATIUS LEBRUN, deceased, testate.and- In the matter of an application by ERROL LEBRUN in his capacity as the executor named in the true last Will and Testament of IGNATIUS LEBRUN dated 14th February, 1990 Applicant. -and-MOHANEE BISSOON PERSAUD Respondent NOTICE TO: MOHANEE BISSOON PERSAUD 324 Cummings Street, South Cummingburg, Georgetown. TAKE NOTICE that a Statement of Claim was filed against you ( the within named Respondent) on the 27th December, ‘2017 in the High Court of the Supreme Court of Judicature of Guyana at Georgetown, Demerara by ERROL LEBRUN in which Claim the applicant claims: (1)A declaration that the Will dated the 14th February , 1990 of IGNATIUS LEBRUN, deceased, in which the applicant, the said ERROL LEBRUN is the named executor ,is the true last will and Testament of the said IGNATIUS LEBRUN. (2)A declaration that the pretended Last Will and Testament dated the 5th October, 2010 of IGNATIUS LEBRUN, deceased be revoked and made null and void and of no effect. (3)A declaration that the Plainitff/ Applicant ERROL LEBRUN named in the last will and Testament dated the 14th February, 1990 as the named executor be entitled to apply for the grant of probate. (4)Damages in excess of $50,000.00 for wrongful intermeddling of the estate of ERROL LEBRUN. (5)Costs UPON APPLICATION in person or by letter to Gem Sanford-Johnson and Anastasia Sanford Attorneys-at-Law for the applicant whose address for service and place of business is at Sanford Chambers Sharons Bldg. Inc 3rd Flr, Suites 309 and 311 lot 154 Charlotte and King Street Georgetown, Demerara, copies of the Statement of Claim, will be delivered or sent to you. AND TAKE NOTICE if you desire to defend this action you must within 28 days of the final publication of this notice prepare an Affidavit in Defence in Form 10C prescribed in the Civil Procedure Rules 2016, serve it on Gem SanfordJohnson and Anastasia Sanford the applicant’s attorneys-at-law, whose address for service and place of business
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Kaieteur News
Saturday March 03, 2018
Costing study to help guide future fee – Vice Chancellor increases at UG There is currently the need for a costing study to be done at the University of Guyana [UG]. Discussions in this regard were recently held at the level of the Academic Board and in the company of student leaders. This is according to UG Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, who shared this development on Thursday. Even as he emphasised the importance of costing, he underscored the need to know how much it would cost the university to produce a degree, for instance, in Civil Engineering or Mathematics. He disclosed that although currently the university offers 113 degree programmes, “we don’t have an empirical base for the decision.” LEARN TO DRIVE C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj Building- Call: 644-5166; 6222872; 615-0964; 689-5997 (affordable packages). PROPERTY FOR SALE Yorrowkabra, Linden Highway, House, Chicken pen, New foundation, Land 200' x 100' Fenced, water & light. 6.5M neg. Contact: 6867180 Property for sale (1) 3 story building at 97 Sugarcane street S/Rvldt Gardens. Price US 1.5M neg. Tel: 695-1356 & 6878445 House & Land @ Diamond, 3 bedrooms big yard space. Price $21.5 million Tel# 6966327/603-3949 Serious enquiries only! LEGAL NOTICE is at Sanford Chambers Sharons Bldg. Inc 3rd Flr, Suites 309 and 311 lot 154 Charlotte and King Street Georgetown, Demerara and file it with proof of service at the Registry at Georgetown, Demerara, not later than 4 days before the date fixed for hearing of the application, and you or your attorney-atlaw must appear at the hearing.AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you fail to file such affidavit and or if you fail to appear at the hearing, final judgment may be given against you notwithstanding your absence.
Dated this 21St day of February 2018
According to Professor Griffith, who was speaking at a ceremony to announce a grant from the Caribbean Development Bank [CDB] for the construction of a new library for the university, while the funding will help to provide critical infrastructure for the library, it will also help to do a variety of other things. Professor Griffith disclosed that he has shared his anxiety with the members of the Academic Board, of his desire to see the costing study be done in the coming year. This move is important since, according to him, “next year will end the third in a three-year cycle of tuition increases.” “Next year we will need to begin to talk about what might be the increase beyond...I would like that conversation to be grounded in evidence. What it cost for a diploma, for a degree, for a Master’s Degree, for a PhD, and so I look forward to moving this process,” said the Vice Chancellor. Just recently the UG administration had cause to defend a decision to hike administrative fees, a move that the current UGSS body had fiercely condemned complete with threats to take legal recourse.But the administration, in a statement, underscored that the increase was imperative since apart from tuition and facilities fees, there are other expenses associated with studying at the university. ”These are commonly called Administrative Fees, and they cover a wide range of services, including fees for processing applications for
UG Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith degree, diploma and certificate programmes [adjusted from $500 to $1000], and late applications [adjusted from $2,000 to $3,000], late registration [adjusted from $10,000 to $12,000], supplemental examinations [adjusted from $1,500 to $5,000]. “The cost of personal transcripts… [has moved from $3,000 to $5,000],” the administration outlined. It also noted that “some services that were entirely free, now attract a fee. Included here are the re-sit examinations, which now cost $6,000 and letters for students that are used for visa applications and other purposes; they now will attract a charge of $5,000.” But according to the administration, students will
only be required to pay the fees if they access the associated services. It was noted that the new administrative fees will not affect all students.”Indeed, some fees do not affect current students; they affect graduates seeking transcripts and other services. A significant proportion of the requests for transcripts come from graduates residing abroad, and dispatching those transcripts carries additional costs,” the administration highlighted. In defending its decision, the university sought to inform that administrative fees were last adjusted by the University about a decade ago. “A comparative analysis of administrative fees being paid at other local tertiary institutions reveals that the
new UG fees are far from exorbitant. As adjustments to service fees are being made at the University of Guyana at this juncture, it must be underscored that over the past two years, students at the University have been witnessing numerous improvements that directly enhance their learning environment and educational experience,” the administration added. Vice Chancellor Griffith had said, “While none of us wish to add to the costs of our students’ educational experiences, the practical reality is that running the university costs, and the government subvention does not - and cannot be expected to - cover all the costs.” Meanwhile, Professor Griffith noted that even beyond the proposed costing study, UG must also have in place a statement of economic value. “We need to know what the University of Guyana does for the nation. Every one of the little more than the 1,000 staff we have here, permanent and part time, pays taxes, buys, has mortgages...so there are economic multipliers, we need to be able calculate what those impacts are,” Professor Griffith stated. As such he emphasised, “we are looking forward not only for the library to have a tangible manifestation of the CDB support, but for other things that can help us have the rational basis for establishing credibility in what we provide as a resource to the society and beyond the society.”
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Kaieteur News
Saturday March 03, 2018
Two bandits killed by police after raiding B’ce River ranch house -two accomplices nabbed, another two on the run
The guns and ammunition found in the bandits’ possession Two bandits are now dead and two captured after a confrontation with police in the Berbice River early yesterday morning. Dead are Indarjit ‘Danny’ Sham, 37,of Betsy Ground Village, East Canje and Amar ‘Punk’ Bissoon, 21,of Adelphi Settlement ,East Canje. According to information gathered, at approximately 05:00h yesterday, six male suspects, two of whom were armed with guns, went to a ranch house at Potocco
Creek, Berbice River, and held three male labourers at gunpoint. During the invasion they stole 23 sheep, 15 ducks, a solar panel, a radio, a quantity of rope, and other valuables, property of a 50 yearold businessman of Vryheid, West Canje, Berbice. They loaded the items on a boat and subsequently escaped. Shortly after the robbery occurred, police in B’ Division were informed and a team
led by a Senior Detective, acting on intelligence, intercepted a boat on the Berbice River with the two suspects who are in custody, and based on further information, the ranks proceeded to another location where they discovered all of the animals with their legs bound and the other stolen property, loaded inside of a camouflaged aluminum boat. It was after the ranks disembarked their boat that they were confronted by two other men who discharged several rounds at them. The officers quickly assumed tactical positions and returned fire, fatally wounding the men who have been positively identified by the
Plan to combat crime crisis in central Trinidad
Trinidad Express - A crime fighting plan is being rolled out for central Trinidad, says Caroni East MP Dr Tim Gopeesingh.This follows a meeting between a team from the Caroni East constituency and Acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams on Thursday. The meeting was held following a request by Gopeesingh amid the on-going crime plague. Gopeesingh said a number of proposals were discussed to ease the crime scourge in central Trinidad.He said, in 2017 there were 85 homicides and 1,819 serious crimes in the Central Division. Deputy Commissioner Deodath Dulalchan also attended the meeting. Gopeesingh was accompanied by a delegation from the Caroni East constituency, including councillors and constituency executive officials. At the 90-minute meeting, several specific issues were
Dr Tim Gopeesingh discussed and assurances given, he said. Williams assured that increased manpower, vehicles and other resources will be assigned to the relevant communities. He said there will be additional policing and patrols of the nine criminal hotspots. There will also be a
presence by national Task Forces. Gopeesingh said he was informed that closed circuit cameras would be installed at strategic locations and traffic wardens would be assigned to the borough to assist police officers. He said community meetings are to be scheduled in order to sensitise residents of the police operations, and there will be efforts to expand the activities of the Police Youth Clubs, to attract the involvement of more youths. Williams said the Trinidad and Tobago police Service (TTPS) goal was to build trust and confidence in the police service by residents. “The meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere and its outcome was satisfactory. I look forward to the implementation of these and other crime-fighting measures in order to counter the crime plague in Caroni East and other districts of Central Trinidad,” he said.
Some of the animals that the robbers had made off with victims as members of the gang who committed the robbery. A twelve gauge pump action shotgun, a .32 pistol, eleven live cartridges, and five live.32 rounds were found in possession of the bandits. Also three spent cartridges and a .32 spent shell were retrieved at the scene. The bodies identified are presently at the Arokium Funeral Home awaiting post mortem examinations. A manhunt is underway for the other two suspects. Investigations are continuing.
The boat that the bandits used
Ruling party promises jobs, reduces corporate taxes ST. JOHN’S, Antigua CMC – The ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) yesterday launched its manifesto for the March 21 general election promising not to re-introduce income tax having repealed the fiscal measure two years after coming to office in 2016. “The ABLP remains committed to the view that the income of the individual is best left in his/her pocket. Persons can use income to buy land, build homes, care for the needs of their children….,” the party said in its document entitled “Vision 2023 and Beyond”. The Gaston Browne ABLP, which is seeking a second consecutive term in office is also promising to reduce corporate tax to 20 per cent, noting also that the controversial Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) that allows for foreign investors to acquire citizenship in return for making a substantial investment into the country “remains important to the economy of Antigua and Barbuda”. It said proceeds from the CIP have been used for the socio-economic development of the country and “therefore the ABLP is committed to ensuring that the CIP continues to flourish, providing a steady
Prime Minister Gaston Browne stream of revenues for the benefit of all the people of Antigua and Barbuda”. The party also said that it would be introducing legislation to operate and regulate block chain technology as an integral part of its vision for the future of the island. “This technology will leap frog our nation into digital transactions of the 21 st century and ready us for the next,” the ABLP said. He party has outlined plans for developing the health, housing, agriculture sectors here as well as supporting public servants through a number of special programmes and initiatives including housing grants, vehicle concessions, home
ownership and health insurance. “The ABLP is determined to do right to the public servants of our nation and to repay them for their patience, duty and hard work during the years of neglect…,” the party said. The ABLP said it regards education as a right and not a privilege and that in addition to new schools it will also spend “significant sums of money to expand secondary schools. It is also promising to spend over EC$20 million (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) on scholarships to education students. It is also promising a free computer for every government teacher. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, speaking the launch of the manifesto, told supporters that the document is designed to “improve the living standards of the people of Antigua and Barbuda. “To ensure that we expand the economy and to put the people of Antigua and Barbuda to work,” he said noting that during its first term in office the government had provided over 6,000 new jobs.In the 1st general election the ABLP won 14 of the 17 seats with the others going to the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP).
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 03, 2018
FBI counterintel investigating Ivanka Trump business deal (CNN) US counterintelligence officials are scrutinizing one of Ivanka Trump’s international business deals, according to two sources familiar with the matter. The FBI has been looking into the negotiations and financing surrounding Trump International Hotel and Tower in Vancouver, according to a US official and a former US official. The scrutiny could be a hurdle for the first daughter as she tries to obtain a full security clearance in her role as adviser to President Donald Trump. It’s standard procedure to probe foreign contacts and international business deals as part of a background check investigation. But the complexity of the Trump Organization’s business deals, which often rely on international financing and buyers, presents a challenge. The FBI has been looking closely at the international
business entanglements of both Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, to determine whether any of those deals could leave them vulnerable to pressure from foreign agents, including China, according to a US official. The development — a 616-foot beacon dotting the Vancouver skyline and featuring a trademarked Ivanka Trump spa — opened in February 2017, just after Trump took office. The Trump Organization does not own the building. Instead, like other Trump projects, it receives licensing and marketing fees from the developer, Joo Kim Tiah. A scion of one of Malaysia’s wealthiest families, Tiah runs his family’s Canada-based development company Holborn Group. President Trump’s June financial disclosure form said the Trump Organization made
more than $5 million in royalties and $21,500 in management fees from the Vancouver property. The $360 million project, which features 147 guest rooms and 217 luxury residences, quickly became a magnet for foreign buyers. In the case of Vancouver, it’s not clear why investigators are examining this particular deal. The timing of the deal — as one of the few Trump-branded properties to open since Trump took office — could be of interest. The flow of foreign money, either from the developer or international condo buyers, could also be sparking scrutiny. Since Kushner took on his role as senior adviser to President Trump, officials in countries including China have discussed ways to use Kushner’s web of business deals to manipulate him, according to The Washington Post.
Kenya doctors ‘perform brain surgery on wrong patient’ (BBC) Staff from nurses to the CEO have been suspended at a Nairobi hospital after the wrong patient underwent brain surgery. One patient needed surgery for a blood clot on the brain, the other only non-invasive treatment for swelling. But a horrifying mix-up of identification tags saw the wrong man operated on, reports say. The doctors did not realise their mistake until “hours into the surgery”, the Daily Nation reported. They then realised “there was no blood clot”. The patient who was operated on is recovering, the hospital says, and an investigation is under way. Regulators have demanded a report and plan to hold a hearing.
Social media users have expressed shock that such an incident could have been allowed to happen. It comes only six weeks after the health minister ordered an investigation into claims new mothers were sexually assaulted at the same hospital. After the incident which took place last weekend came to light, Kenyatta National Hospital’s CEO Lily Koros said the hospital “deeply regrets this event and has done all it can to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient in question”. “We are happy to inform the public that the patient is in recovery and progressing well,” Ms Koros added. She said four staff - the neurosurgeon, ward nurse, theatre receiving nurse and
anaesthetist - had been suspended. “The management has suspended the admission rights of a neurosurgery registrar and issued him with a show-cause letter for apparently operating on the wrong patient,” Ms Koros said. A show-cause letter requires a staff member to account for his or her actions. But the doctor ’s colleagues have protested against the suspension, reports The Star, arguing the person who put on the identification tag is the one that should be punished. And hours later Kenyan Health Minister Sicily Kariuki said Ms Koros herself and and a clinical affairs officer were being sent home on compulsory leave while the affair was investigated.
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Kaieteur News
Saturday March 03, 2018
Netanyahu, wife questioned ‘under caution’ in corruption Case 4000 Jerusalem (CNN) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was questioned “under caution” in Case 4000, according to an Israeli official, making him a suspect now in three corruption investigations. Investigators questioned Netanyahu at his residence in Jerusalem for five hours Friday morning, marking the eighth time the Israeli leader has been questioned in graft probes targeting him and his inner circle. An Israeli official told CNN that Netanyahu was questioned “under caution,” which refers to the questioning of someone suspected of having committed a crime, with the warning that anything they say, or decline to talk about, could be used against them in court proceedings. Police simultaneously interrogated Netanyahu’s wife, Sara, at a different location. She too was questioned “under caution” in Case 4000, the official said. Her lawyer also confirmed those details to Reuters. Case 4000 is one of the biggest investigations facing the Israeli leader, dealing with the relationship between the Ministry of Communications — at a time when Netanyahu was the Communications Minister — and Israeli telecommunications firm Bezeq. Prosecutors say Netanyahu advanced regula-
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with his wife, Sara Netanyahu, in New York tory benefits worth up to 1 billion shekels (approximately $280 million) to Shaul Elovitch, Netanyahu’s friend who is the controlling shareholder of Bezeq. In exchange, prosecutors say Elovitch gave Netanyahu favorable news coverage in online news site Walla! News, owned by Elovitch. Elovitch is also a suspect in Case 4000. He has denied
any wrongdoing. In a Facebook video posted shortly after the interrogations concluded, Netanyahu proclaimed his innocence, saying, “(I am) more certain than even there will be nothing.” Addressing his supporters, he added: “I want to tell the millions of Israeli citizens who support me and my family: You warm our hearts.”
Trump steel tariffs: European Union gears up for trade war (BBC) European Union officials have said they will respond “firmly” if US President Donald Trump presses ahead with his plan for steep global duties on metals. EU trade chiefs are considering slapping 25% tariffs on around $3.5bn (£2.5bn) of imports from the US, Reuters news agency reports.World Trade Organization Director General Roberto Azevedo said: “A trade war is in no one’s interests.”The rhetoric ramped up as Mr Trump tweeted that “trade wars are good”.International condemnation has greeted the US president’s Thursday announcement that he plans to impose a 25%
tariff on steel imports and 10% on aluminium next week.The European Union is reported to be considering retaliatory tariffs, targeting US steel, agriculture and other products. European Commission head Jean-Claude Juncker promised to react firmly. “We will not sit idly while our industry is hit with unfair measures that put thousands of European jobs at risk,” he said.Speaking to a German TV programme, he vowed: “We will put tariffs on Harley-Davidson, on bourbon and on blue jeans - Levi’s.”French economy minister Bruno Le Maire said there would “only be losers” in a US-EU trade war.
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 03, 2018
Putin is brandishing his new arsenal — but what does Russia have? Moscow (CNN) Russian President Vladimir Putin has raised hackles in Washington with his claim — unveiled Thursday — that Russia is fielding a formidable new arsenal that can thwart US ballistic missile defences. So what new strategic weaponry does Russia have, and how does this it enhance its military power? And does this mean a new Cold War is in the offing? Here are the basics about the new weaponry revealed by Putin as he gave his annual address to the Russian Parliament. A new generation of intercontinental ballistic missile: The Sarmat would be a more capable rocket designed to replace the Voevoda ICBM, known by the NATO designation SS-18 Satan. It could loft its payload over a longer distance — capable of crossing the South Pole as well as the North Pole, the shortest
route between Russia and the United States. Is it deployed? No. Putin said the Russian military has begun the “active phase” for testing the new missile. Russian state news agency RIANovosti Friday cited a Russian lawmaker saying pre-production versions of the rocket would enter the inventory soon. A nuclear-powered cruise missile: Putin boasted that the Russians had developed a low-flying cruise missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead that could stay aloft indefinitely: It would be powered by a nuclear power plant. Is it fully operational? No. At the end of 2017, Putin said, Russia conducted a successful launch of the missile. A unmanned underwater vehicle: Putin said the Russian military had been developing a stealthy underwater vehicle that can target a wide range of targets, including
carrier groups or coastal bases. Deployed? Not yet. The 2018 US Nuclear Posture Review notes that Russia is developing a “new intercontinental, nuclear armed, nuclear-powered, undersea autonomous torpedo” as a new nuclear-weapons delivery system. Putin said trials began in December. A new air-launched missile: Putin said Russia has developed an air-launched missile capable of flying at several times the speed of sound, capable of overcoming air-defense systems. “Russia has such weapons already,” he said. Fully operational? Apparently. Putin said the system — called Kinzhal, or Dagger — had successfully completed testing and had been deployed operationally beginning on December 1 at the airfields of Russia’s Southern Military District.
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Foreign Affairs minister deposits instrument …
Caribbean Renewable Energy Centre
Saturday March 03, 2018
Stanford workers lining up again Daily Observer - Hundreds of former employees of the Stanford Development Company (SDC) were Thursday queuing up to receive pay-outs which they have been seeking for many years. This media house received information about the pay-out on Wednesday and on Thursday Hordley Forbes of Forbes & Associates confirmed that around 500 workers were receiving a second pay-out to complete the severance owed to them. Forbes along with Marcus Wide of Grant Thornton of the British Virgin Islands, are the liquidators for the SDC. Their appointments to those roles were announced around October of 2013. Meanwhile a source has told OBSERVER media that some portion of the money being used to pay the workers of SDC may have come from the recent sale of a property.
Allan Stanford
Brazil high court justice approves investigation of Temer Senator Kamina Johnson, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (right) deposited Jamaica’s Instrument of Ratification for the Agreement. KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson, deposited Jamaica’s Instrument of Ratification for the Agreement Establishing the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE) on Tuesday. The ceremony took place in the margins of the 29th Inter-sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), held in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, from February 26-27.
The agreement establishing the CCREEE was signed by CARICOM Heads of Government, including Prime Minister Andrew Holness, on July 6, 2017 at the 38th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in Grenada. Establishment of the CCREEE will assist Jamaica in identifying and addressing gaps in its efforts to achieve its energy policy goals and targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency. Johnson Smith noted that the centre will “support the
transformation of the energy sector to an efficient low carbon producing one, by way of the provision of technical and implementation support, as well as the mobilisation of financial and technical resources.” The first three years of the Centre’s operation will be supported through financial contributions from the Governments of Austria and Spain, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and other key development partners. (Jamaica Observer)
BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Edson Fachin yesterday ordered President Michel Temer be included in an ongoing investigation into 10 million reais ($3.07 million) in illicit funds his Brazilian Democratic Party allegedly r e ceived from construction firm Odebrecht [ODBES.UL] in 2014, according to a court document. Brazil’s Prosecutor General Raquel Dodge requested earlier this week that Temer be investigated despite the constitution barring him from being charged for crimes committed before he became president - as long as he remains in power. Odebrecht made the alleged payment in 2014, when Temer was vice president. Carlos Marun, Temer ’s political affairs minister, earlier said that any investigation into the president would only find that he committed no crimes.
President Michel Temer
Saturday March 03, 2018
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Tridents overhaul, Stars strengthen for new season LONDON, CMC – Barbados Tridents embarked on an overhaul while St Lucia Stars strengthened considerably for the 2018 Caribbean Premier League season, after both franchises acquired key players in the draft held here Thursday. The 2014 champions, Tridents made two key changes to their line up by allowing the long-serving duo of Kieron Pollard and Shoaib Malik to depart for other franchises while acquiring New Zealander Martin Guptill as their first round pick and also going for the highly-rated Bangladeshi all-rounder Shakib-al-Hasan in the second round as their marquee player. Both players have been fixtures for Tridents, with Pol-
lard having captained the side from the inception of the fiveyear-old league. Pollard scored 264 runs last season at an average of 33 with three half-centuries while Shoaib managed 121 runs from five matches in a campaign cut short by national duty. But with Tridents failing to make the playoffs last year, the franchise have chosen to rebuild, with Trinidadian Pollard off to St Lucia Stars and Pakistani Shoaib heading to Guyana Amazon Warriors. A plethora of Barbadian players have been instead drafted, headed by Dwayne Smith who was a fourth round pick, and including West Indies Test and one-day captain Jason Holder. Roston Chase, Shai Hope,
Former Barbados Tridents captain, Kieron Pollard. Raymon Reifer and Ashley Nurse, along with rookie pacers Chemar Holder and Dominic Drakes, all set to feature before their home crowd at Kensington Oval. Tridents will also have the services of South African batting star Hashim Amla – a third round pick – along with the Pakistani duo of Junaid Khan and Wahab Riaz.
Saturday March 03, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Be prepared today, Aries. A longtime dream regarding your career may finally become a reality. At first you might not believe it, fighting the news in order to avoid possible disappointment TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You tend to be your own worst critic, Taurus, and today you're more likely to be that way. Recent setbacks on the job might find you harboring doubts about your own capabilities. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today could be a strange day where money is concerned, Gemini. You might not be sure exactly where you stand financially CANCER (June 21–July 22) Unsafe conditions could exist around the house, Cancer, which may result in accidents if they aren't rectified. Some may not be readily apparent, so warn family members to be careful. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Leo, one or more of your coworkers could appear to be rather upset or depressed on the job today, and this is likely to affect your own efficiency. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Profligate spending in the past may come back to haunt you now with regard to money, Virgo. There could be blocks in receiving funds you were expecting or an unexpected but necessary expense could come
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Boredom and restlessness may plague you today, Libra. You could feel the need to break loose from the ties that bind you to mundane affairs, to run away and seek adventure, although you aren't certain what kind of adventure! SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) This is a good day to read, study, attend a class, or otherwise acquire new information. You may discover something new about a subject that really interests you SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Worries about money could be uppermost in your mind today, Sagittarius. You may have suffered some financial setbacks and wonder how you can muster enough funds to get over the hump. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Setbacks on the job might have you a little depressed and worried. Don't worry, Capricorn; all will be well. Think of this as a challenge to overcome. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Sudden events that come to you via TV, newspapers, or the Internet, could shake up long-cherished belief systems today, Aquarius. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A task that you've been working on for a long time could come to a standstill today due to circumstances beyond your control.
Stars, meanwhile, without a title in the competition to date, picked up West Indies star Lendl Simmons in the first round and also went for Pollard in the second round and the in-demand Australian D’Arcy Short in the third round. They retained successful former West Indies Twenty20 captain, Darren Sammy, while also landing Sri Lankan Niroshan Dickwella and West Indies A all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall. The acquisitions are expected to bolster a side which has struggled since the inception of the competition and had a dreadful last season when they failed to record a single win in 10 outings.Meanwhile, West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell made his return to Jamaica Tallawahs following his year-long ban from international cricket while he served an anti-doping whereabouts ban.He was the first round pick for the Tallawahs who lost talisman Chris Gayle to St Kitts and Nevis Patriots at the start of last season, and his recent form in the Regional Super50 served notice that his qualities had diminished little. Russell will be joined by South African batsman David Miller, veteran Pakistan allrounder Shahid Afridi who was picked up in the second round as their marquee player, while New Zealand batting star Ross Taylor was added in the fourth round to further strengthen the two-time champions.Reigning champions Trinbago Knight Riders and losing finalists Patriots have retained the core of their side while Amazon Warriors’ main pick-up was Shoaib. A record 227 overseas players and 121 West Indies players were up for auction staged at the Gfinity eSports Arena. The new CPL season bowls off August 8.
We need to adjust batting approach says Law HARARE, Zimbabwe, CMC – West Indies head coach Stuart Law said he side will have to recalibrate its approach to batting in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2018 in order to achieve success. Law was speaking after his side limped their way through two warm-up matches against Afghanistan and United Arab Emirates in which the batting failed to erase concerns about its stability.“It’s not going to be making 300 plus and then bowling teams out,” he said. “It’s going to be working out how to get to 180 to 220, and then deciding how to get the 10 wickets.“To be honest, the wickets (in the warm-up matches) weren’t as conducive as we want to play and so we will just have to come up with different ways to go about it.” He added: “We do target 300-plus, as we found in New Zealand, that’s probably a benchmark score these days in One-Day Internationals. “Here, we have to lower that target just to make sure we are safe to play better cricket or make better decisions out in the middle and get the job done.” The Qualifier opens on
Sunday, but West Indies play their first match on Tuesday against the United Arab Emirates, the side which nearly beat them in the second warm-up match on Thursday. “The strength of lot of Associate teams is based around spin and the quicks they have seem to be pretty reasonable as well,” said Law. “We can’t just go out and blast and dominate against these attacks. We have to be a little smarter to go about it.” He said: “Our bowlers have been consistently taking wickets upfront and we have a good mix of off-spin, leftarm spin and leg-spin. I think it is a well-balanced attack that we take into each game. “Our quicks are a bit more capable of getting the ball up at high speed, which the Associates don’t probably get to see a lot, and this is something that we can use to our advantage. As the event will progress, the wickets will spin more and we have quality spinners as well.” Law however, urged senior batsmen Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels to take the lead in setting the right tone for the batting. Scotland, Papua New Guinea and the United Arab Emirates for the Qualifier.
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Gymnast Raisman sues U.S. Olympic Committee over Nassar abuse (Reuters) - U.S. gymnast Aly Raisman has sued the U.S. Olympic Committee and USA Gymnastics over former USA Gymnastics’ team doctor Larry Nassar’s sexual abuse, saying they knew or should have known about his behavior but put “money and medals” before athletes’ safety. “I refuse to wait any longer for these organizations to do the right thing. It is my hope that the legal process will hold them accountable and enable the change that is so desperately needed,” the three-time Olympic gold medalist said in a statement yesterday. Raisman’s lawsuit, seeking unspecified damages, was filed on Wednesday in California state court in Santa Clara County. Raisman, 23, said in November she was sexually abused by Nassar. She was among nearly 200 gymnasts, including several Olympic medalists, who gripped the country with testimony about decades of abuse, speaking out during Nassar’s televised sentencing hearings. Nassar pleaded guilty last year to molesting female athletes under the guise of medi-
cal treatment for nearly 20 years, and in January and February was given two prison sentences in Michigan of 40 to 125 years, and 40 to 175 years. He is also serving a 60-year federal term for child pornography convictions. Raisman still suffers from”depression, anxiety and fear” stemming from her abuse, her lawsuit said. Despite having the authority and mandate to discipline Nassar, the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC), USA Gymnastics or former top USA Gymnastics executives, also named as defendants, never intervened, the suit added. The molestations could have been prevented if the defendants had been serious about their duty to protect young athletes, but”(they) instead put their quest for money and medals above the safety” of the plaintiff and other athletes, the lawsuit said. The USOC and a representative for Raisman did not immediately return requests for comment. USA Gymnastics, the sport’s U.S. governing body, had no immediate comment. The Nassar scandal prompted the entire board of
directors at USA Gymnastics to resign, along with the president and athletic director at Michigan State University, where Nassar also worked. It also spawned several lawsuits and criminal and civil investigations. Raisman’s lawsuit was the latest in a string of civil complaints filed by Irvine, California, attorney John Manly on behalf of former Olympic gymnasts and national gymnastics team members concerning the Nassar abuse. Manly also filed a suit against the USOC and other defendants in December on behalf of McKayla Maroney, a 2012 Olympic gymnastics gold and silver medalist. ‘DELUSIONAL’ ABOUT CHANGE The USOC, which has faced months of sustained criticism over the sex abuse scandal, said on Wednesday its chief executive officer, Scott Blackmun, was resigning for medical reasons. It cited Blackmun’s “ongoing health issues” related to prostate cancer, for which he has been receiving treatment. It also outlined new reforms aimed at protecting its athletes from abuse, including increasing funding for
support and counseling for victims as well as investigations into abuse allegations. The USOC statement did not address whether the sex abuse scandal played a role in Blackmun’s departure. In her statement on Friday, Raisman said the sporting organizations were still”unwilling to conduct a full investigation, and without a solid understanding of how this happened, it is delusional to think sufficient changes can be implemented.” Last month, USOC Board of Directors Chairman Larry Probst said the U.S. Olympic system had”failed” the hundreds of young female athletes who were sexually abused by Nassar. During the sentencing hearings, gymnasts described their ordeal while being treated by Nassar, who was known as the go-to doctor for Olympic gymnasts. He disguised his digital penetration of victims as”intravaginal adjustment,” a legitimate treatment sometimes used to relieve pain. Attorney David Mittleman, who represents 90 of the 256 plaintiffs al-
Aly Raisman (facebook)
ready suing USA Gymnastics in federal court in Michigan, said on Friday,”We haven’t yet decided whether to broaden our suit to include the U.S. Olympic Committee or possibly the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Asso-
ciation).” This referred to Nassar’s connection with Michigan State. Mittleman says the 90 athletes he represents is the second largest group. The one represented by Raisman’s attorney, Manly, is the largest.
Australia claim big lead as Scot Hawkins on the road Starc rips through S. Africa to showdown with Farah DURBAN (Reuters) Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc produced high-quality reverse-swing to claim five wickets against South Africa as the tourists seized control of the first test with a first innings lead of 189 at the close on the second day. Australia were 351 all out as Mitchell Marsh top scored with 96 before Starc (5-34) and off-spinner Nathan Lyon (350) skittled the hosts for a paltry 162 in their reply at Kingsmead. AB de Villiers (71 not out) was sublime for South Africa as he forged a lone battle, but ran out of partners as Starc ripped through the middle and lower order with his fast swing bowling.Australia will begin their second innings on the third morning with what looks a match-winning lead on an abrasive wicket that is likely to deteriorate further in the coming days. Marsh was dismissed four short of his century as Australia took their overnight tally from 225-5 to post an imposing score.The tourists had said they would be delighted to get 300 and Marsh steered them through a difficult time in the first session after South Africa had taken the second new ball and snagged three
Starc proved unplayable, especially from round the wicket to South Africa’s right-handers ©Getty Images wickets before lunch. His solid batting, coupled with a quick-fire cameo from Starc, who scored 35 runs off 25 balls, took Australia past that total and Marsh to the brink of a third test century. However, he lost patience and tried to hit Vernon Philander (3-59) over the top of mid-on, only for the tall Morne Morkel to pluck a catch out of the air. South African spinner Keshav Maharaj (5-123) grabbed the last wicket of Lyon to complete a fivewicket haul.
The spinner had been the most effective of the home bowlers on a slow wicket, which Lyon wasted no time in utilising to his benefit as he came on in the eighth over of the South African innings. His second delivery saw Dean Elgar (7) get a leading edge as he tried to play against the spin and Lyon make a diving catch to his right.Hashim Amla (0) followed three balls later as Lyon dragged him forward and he played onto his pad to be snagged by Cameron Bancroft at short leg.
LONDON (Reuters) Callum Hawkins faces a huge test of his ability when he takes on Mo Farah in the inaugural‘Big-Half’ race over 13.1 miles on the streets of London tomorrow but getting to the start line might prove an even bigger challenge for the talented Scot. Hawkins is desperate to go head-to-head with multiworld and Olympic track champion Farah in the halfmarathon and on Friday embarked on what could be a long and arduous drive from Scotland on roads littered with abandoned cars due to the ice and snow that has caused such chaos in Britain this week. After failing to secure a flight over the last two days, Hawkins will be following in the tyre tracks of compatriot Laura Muir, who also took to the roads via a 1,500 pounds ($2,065.50) taxi ride from Glasgow to win a bronze medal in the 3,000 metres at the world indoor championships in Birmingham on Thursday. “She managed to get there, braved the weather and was able to perform so it’s pretty inspiring,” Hawkins told reporters in a conference call on Friday. Hawkins, fourth in the
Callum Hawkins marathon at the world championships last year and ninth in the 2016 Olympics, is racing for Scotland in the Commonwealth Games in Australia next month and is desperate to toe the line on Sunday. “It was a struggle towards the end of last year with a few niggles but things are going well now and I’ve done some PBs in training,” he said.”This week is pretty vital for my preparation for the Commonwealth Games.” Briton Farah is also using tomorrow’s race as a stepping stone for his second appearance at the London Marathon and he arrived in the capital this week after a six-week training block in Ethiopia. “London in April is the
main thing, training’s gone well and I’m looking forward to testing myself,” said Farah, who has committed himself to the road circuit after a stellar career on the track. “It’s exciting now to go from track to road, it’s a challenge,” he said.”I really respect the guys in the field on Sunday and hopefully it will be a cracking race, added Farah, who said that 24 hours earlier he was sitting in his garden with his shirt off in temperatures of 25 degrees. “I’m not worried about the weather,” he said.”Last year in New York I ran 60 (minutes) eight (seconds) in a snowstorm so I’m pretty used to it.” Farah is the British record holder for the half marathon with the 59:32 he ran in 2015 while Hawkins is next in the rankings with a time of exactly one hour. However, both men sit well behind 2017 London Marathon winner Daniel Wanjiru, whose best of 59.20 was set two years ago and who arrived safely in London on Friday ahead of the race. The ‘Big Half’ is a new, mass-participation event, with much of the course following that of the full London Marathon but in reverse. (1 = 0.7262 pounds)
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Massiah Primary bludgeons rivals to win UCCA inter primary school cricket
Special prize being presented to Murvin Mohabir of NO 56 Primary school for scoring the only century. The Massiah (NO71) Primary School showed that they are a class above the rest when they hammered their rivals in the two games played in the final stages to win the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association (UCCA) Inter Primary School 10 overs softball cricket competition. The semifinals and final were played recently at the Crabwood Creek ground. The competition, which was sponsored by Davendra Ramgoolam of R and R Auto
Rental Services of the Upper Corentyne, saw 10 teams taking part in the competition with the teams being divided into three zones. In the final stages, Massiah, the winner of zone two, took on Skeldon Primary the winner of zone one and No 59 Primary the winner of Zones Three.In the first encounter Massiah took on No 56 primary with Skeldon drawing the bye to the final. No56 won the toss and asked Massiah to bat first and
The outstanding players and teams pose with their certificates and officials of the Upper Corentyne Cricket Associations and teachers after the match. they made 60 -6 in their 10 overs with Lakeraj Ramlakhan 23(2x4) and Oudit Omapersaud 13. Bowling for No56 Shawn Roberts and Ganesh Reece took two wickets each. No56 in reply had no answer to the Massiah bowling attack as they were skittled out for 10 in 4.4 overs. Bowling for Massiah were Salim Khan and Lakeraj Ramlakhan with 3 each and Oudit Omapersaud and Sanjay Tellakram with 2
apiece. In the final Massiah won the toss and asked Skeldon to bat fist and bundled them out for 14 in 6 overs. The destroyers for Massiah were Tellakram with 4, while Ramlakhan and Omapersaud snared three apiece. Massiah raced to 19 -0 in 1.5 overs ending the game with a six. Salim Khan was on 17(2x4, 1x6), Tomesha Hemraj on 2 at the end. Massiah Primary thus winning the competition was
presented with a $15,000 girt voucher, while Skeldon Primary received a $10,000 gift voucher. These will go to the players to purchase stationary and school supplies at a popular store on the Upper Corentyne. The winning and runner up trophies were also presented to the respective schools. All the players were presented with exercise books, pencils and pens. The schools also received reading material, all compliments of
Hilbert Foster CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club MS.The competition was coordinated by chairman of the UCCA Competitions committee, former national wicketkeeper batsman Sydney Jackman. The other members of the committee are former Berbice player Chatterpaul Lionel and Narendranauth Balram. The Inter Secondary Scholl Hardball competition is set to commence soon. (Samuel Whyte)
REO urges students to expand on Jump Rope initiative Commits to supporting healthy lifestyles Regional Executive Officer of Region Four, Ms. Pauline Lucas has issued a passionate appeal to students within Region Four to use the Jump Rope initiative as another avenue in garnering healthier lifestyles. REO Lucas made this appeal at the conclusion of the 2018 Department of Education Region Four Jump Rope competition held at Bladen Hall Secondary recently.The competition, which saw Craig and Golden Grove Primary Schools along with Ann’s Grove, Hope and Bladen Hall Secondary dominating in various categories, attracted a number of schools and participants. Lucas said that while some persons may want to shy away from sports owing to a number of reasons, she urged them to use the Jump Rope as an ideal avenue to building healthier lifestyles. “I believe that many persons underestimate the power and ability of the Jump Rope, so a lot of us take its effectiveness for granted but let me stress that this simple looking jump role can bring many of us in line in terms of maintaining or even achieving a healthy body,” she said. REO in emphasizing the
importance of the jump rope being used widely in schools said, “With so many challenges and obstacles in preventing us from remaining a healthy lifestyle I urge you the students, especially in region four to use this as much as you can. The Jump Rope being used as a means of getting and staying healthy, hopefully would certainly help in reducing the many high numbers of Non Communicable Diseases.” She added, “I am tired of hearing about so many of our young people being stricken with various diseases and I am appealing to teachers and most importantly parents to encourage your children to become actively involved. Use it, utilize it and keep it so that you can put and keep your body in line.” The Regional Executive Officer declared that together with the assistance of the Ministry of Education Allied Arts Department she would continue to engage them while forging closer relationships. “I am certain that in time the Ministry of Public Health would report that there is a decrease in NCDs as that should be our ultimate goal,” she declared.
She gave her commitment to supporting similar like activities within the region declaring, “As the REO for this Region students and parents can count upon us in helping you and your child in whatever way that we can in accessing activities that will facilitate healthier lifestyle,” she promised. The REO congratulated the Department of Education under its acting Regional Education Officer, Ms Tiffany Flavourite–Harvey for what she deemed as an excellent organising of events. “REDO Flavourite - Harvey continues to work on executing successful projects and I would like to offer congratulations to her and her team,” she stated. “Together we can all work towards bringing about an environment of healthier lifestyles and through the Jump Rope I am urging all to start here,” she added. The results of the competition are; Jump Rope 6-11 1st Craig Primary School – Craig Trinity Group 98.5 points 2nd Golden Grove Primary School – Golden Girls 88 points
Faith Rogers and Ashanna Josiah of Golden Grive Primary with teacher Everette Gilbert–Thornton. Individual Free Style 6-11 1st Golden Grove Primary Asshma Josiah – 78.5 points Craig Primary – Jisell Grant – 57 points Individual Free Style 1217 1st Ann’s Grove – Atavia Williams – 57 points 2ndBladen Hall Secondary – Keandre Evans 54 points Last Man Standing 12 – 17 1stBladen Hall Secondary - Ozella Fredericks – 3 minutes
2 nd Hope Secondary – Ashaia Reece -2.55seconds 3rdBladen Hall Secondary – Charissa December 2.03seconds Last Man Standing 6- 11 1st Golden Grove Primary – Faith Rogers – 5.49seconds 2 nd Craig Primary – Dwayne Shephered – 5.06 seconds 3rd Craig Primary – Jisel Grant – 3.58 seconds Physical Display Combination
1 st Hope Secondary – Tumbling Warriors - 106 ½ points 2ndBladen Hall Secondary – Boom Tum Tum – 56 points Physical Display Pyramids – 1st Ann’s Grove Secondary – Flexer – 78.5 Skip Be Fit 12-17 1st Ann’s Grove Secondary – Jumping Dolls - 53 points 2ndBladen Hall Secondary – Skip to the Beat 27 points
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Petra’s third annual Corona Futsal Tournament
Tonight is expected to be action packed
Andrew Murray Jr. on the ball during Bent Street’s victory over California Square Tuesday night in the tournament. The second night of the Petra’s third annual Corona Futsal tournament which has a total prize purse of over $2million including a Hero 150cc motorcycle which a lucky fan will win, lived up to the hype and promise with a total of 35 goals being scored in just a mere six matches on Tuesday last. And more action is anticipated tonight with six more matches with the first whistle at 19:00hrs. 3/3/2018 19:00 hrs 19:50 hrs 20:40 hrs 21:30 hrs 22:20 hrs 23:15 hrs
Fans will enjoy Hairoun Beer special at 5 for $1,000 and Corona at 3 for $1,000, while viewing competitive group matches that will be expected tonight at the National Gymnasium since teams are due to receive incentives for their respective placing in the group stage. The top finishers will get an additional $40,000, second place $30,000, third place $20,000 and fourth place $10,000.
Round Robin Day 3 Alexander Village Xtreme Campbellville Tiger Bay North East Sparta Boss Old School Ballers
v/s v/s v/s v/s v/s v/s
Meanwhile, the championship winner will pocket $600,000, runners-up $300,000 and third place $150,000, and the MVP of the tournament, in addition to a lucky patron will receive one motorbike each from part sponsors Rose Ramdehol through their hero brand. See below tonight’s fixtures for the tournament which is also being sponsored by NAMILCO.
Gymnasium Broad Street New Market Street Plaisance California Square Mocha Future Stars
Match # 13 14 15 16 17 18
Schools’ Milo Football tournament continues today at MOE ground The 2018 Milo/Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) under-18 schools’ football tournament continues today with a triple header at the Ministry of Education (MOE) ground on Carifesta Avenue from 12:00hrs. During the last match
day on Sunday three games were contested, Buxton Youth Developers trounced South Ruimveldt Secondary 5-0 in the first before St. George’s High continued their regression with another loss, this time a 31 defeat against Queenstown Secondary and in the feature game Masters Academy continued their winning ways with a 2-1 victory over Lodge Secondary. Today’s play will feature Chase Academy tackling Annandale in a replay from 12:00hrs followed by The Bishops’ High versus School of the Nations and St. Rose’s will play Sir
Leon Lessons in the final match. M e a n w h i l e , tomorrow’s play will see Uitvlugt Secondary matching skills with Cummings Lodge in the first game, then Linden based Christianburg Wi s m a r Secondary School will oppose Ann’s Grove Secondary with the feature match being contested between Morgan’s Learning Centre and Pure Masters Academy. The tournament that is being played under the theme: “There is no excuse for violence.” (Calvin Chapman)
Chase heads changes for Windies A One-day squad ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – Test batsman Roston Chase heads the changes to the West Indies A squad for three One-day matches against England Lions. Cricket West Indies announced yesterday a 13-member squad for the three matches which will be contested on March 6, 9 and 11 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground here. The shaven-skull Chase, the most prolific batsman in the recent Super50 Cup with 558 runs in 10 matches at an average of 62 for Super50 Cup runners-up Barbados Pride, heads the list of six changes from the “Test” squad. The others coming into the squad are: Jamaica Scorpions batsman Andre McCarthy, whose 305 runs at 38.12 was the fifth-highest aggregate, right-handed batsman and part-time left-arm spinner Kavem Hodge from Super50 Cup champions Windward Islands Volcanoes, fellow batsman Chandrapaul Hemraj, along with his Guyana Jaguars teammates Romario Shepherd and Keemo Paul.
“This Windies ‘A’ Oneday squad has a few new faces and these players have been identified based on their Super50 Cup performances,” said Chairman of the CWI selection panel, Courtney Browne. “We are now looking forward to similar performances from the players in the Oneday series that are worthy of challenging for senior team slots. “Our performances in One-day Internationals at the senior level have not been consistent for a number of years now and we need to start identifying players that can help us to become a more consistent ODI team.” The rest of the squad which will be captained by Kieran Powell with his Leeward Islands Hurricanes teammate Jahmar Hamilton as his deputy, comprises a number of Windies A regulars plus senior team players that have an opportunity to put forward their case. From the “Test” side, missing out on the One-day series will be Shamarh Brooks, John Campbell, Shane Dowrich,
Keon Joseph, Jeremiah Louis and Vishaul Singh. The One-day series comes on the heels of the “Test” series which Windies A swept 3-0, bringing kudos from Browne. “The ‘Test’ side had an outstanding series, and the panel would like to congratulate the team and coaching staff for a stellar performance against the English,” he said. “The ‘Test’ squad reflected the majority of those players that have been with our Windies A programme for the last 18 months or more, plus some senior Test team players that needed to make justification for further senior Test match consideration. This allowed us to put out a strong squad against the England Lions.” Squad: Kieran Powell (Captain), Jahmar Hamilton (Vice Captain), Jermaine Blackwood, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Kavem Hodge, Andre McCarthy, Keemo Paul, Raymon Reifer, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith and Jomel Warrican.
Woods commits to two more events before Masters (Reuters) - Tiger Woods has committed to playing consecutive weeks at the next two PGA Tour events in what will likely be his final tournaments ahead of next month’s U.S. Masters, the former world number one said yesterday. Woods, who has played three official events since returning this year after spinal fusion surgery 10 months ago, said on Twitter that he will be at next week’s Valspar Championship followed by the Arnold Palmer Invitational. The commitment to Valspar, which is held in Palm Harbor, Florida, is somewhat surprising given that Woods, 42, has never played the event before.He was, however, widely expected to be at Bay Hill for the Arnold Palmer Invitational, where he is an eight-times winner. It will be Woods’ first start in the event since 2013. Woods had the most encouraging result of his comeback at last week’s Honda Classic where he earned a share of 12th place. It marked his best PGA Tour result since a tie for 10th at the 2015 Wyndham Championship. Woods, who is ranked 389th in the world rankings,
Tiger Woods
has said he needs more”tournament reps” to be ready for the Masters but eligibility issues will limit the number of events he can play between now and April. The World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play event is held the week following the Arnold Palmer Invitational but
Woods is not eligible as it consists of the world’s top 64 players as of March 11. The following week is the Houston Open, which is the final Masters tuneup, but Woods has never played the event or the week before the year’s first major, which will be played at Augusta National from April 5-8.
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Kaieteur News
GFF Elite League Season III
Ann’s Grove and Den Amstel Draw, Cougars remain pointless after 5th loss to GDF By Calvin Chapman The Guyana Football Federation’s Elite League continued on Thursday night at the Guyana Defence Force ground on Carifesta Avenue and Vlissingen Road with a double header that saw the home team predictably trouncing last placed Cougars FC 5-0 in the feature match of the night. However, before the fireworks, Ann’s Grove and Den Amstel played to a disappointing goalless draw; a matchup that threatened to produce many goals but the finishing touch was lacking. Former Alpha United FC winger and national forward, William Europe was superb on the left flank for Ann’s Grove, the diminutive but quick and skillful player eased passed Den Amstel defence as easy as a walk in the park on numerous occasions but lack of sufficient support and the clinical finishing was absent on Thursday night for the East Demerara FA club. Ann’s Grove striker, Delroy Deen was the main striker, the imposing target man had a bad night in front of goal; from hitting wide of the target to losing his footing in good positions, nothing went his way in the fixture. Den Amstel had their fair share of opportunities in the match and they had a good shout for a penalty in last ten minutes of the game but the officials didn’t agree with most of the players and fans at the army ground on the night that was chilled by the seawall breeze.
Chance after chance went begging in the dying minutes and the game was destined to be goalless. Prior to the feature match, the collective thought amongst the Cougars FC (that have lost all four games competed prior) players was that they needed to score goals after putting in only one goal in their previous four matches in the league played. However, it is more important to defend because once you don’t concede, you cannot lose. Whatever plan the table languishers had didn’t come to fruition and the reigning Champions, GDF, with the hype of home support fired home five goals to give Cougars their fifth loss. GDF, who will be representing Guyana at the CFU club competition next month in Dominica, didn’t play as fluid as one would expect the National Champions to perform but nevertheless, Cougars were so hapless that they let by five goals, which saw GDF assume the top of the league’s points standings on goal difference, ahead of Western Tigers who also have 10 points. Scoring for GDF in the big win was Delwin Fraser with a brace, while Delroy Fraser, Delroy Ferdinand and Amos Ramsay all netted once each. The league continues tomorrow at the same GDF venue with another double header. New Amsterdam will play Victoria Kings in the first match at 18:00hrs, while Milerock will play Buxton in the feature game at 20:00hrs.
National forward, Delon Lanferman (centre) of Den Amstel tries to get on the ball during a quiet night for him at GDF in his team’s 0-0 draw with Ann’s Grove.
GDF’s goal scorers from left Delwin Fraser, Delroy Ferdinand, Amos Ramsey and Delroy Fraser.
Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Committee Triple Crown Horseracing Championships
Trophy Stall on board for Triple Crown as event starts tomorrow The Trophy Stall has come on board as one of the key sponsors of the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee Triple Crown Horseracing Championships which commences tomorrow March 4th at the Rising Sun Turf Club. Ramesh Sunich, Proprietor of the popular Trophy Stall, who has over the years been giving tremendous support sports across the board, during the past week handed over a number of trophies to wife of Organiser Junior Mohamed, Alisha, at the business place South Road location. Over 70 entries have been received as systems are in place for tomorrow’s start of
the three part event at the Rising Sun Turf Club. Over $20million in cash prizes up for grabs in the three-day event. Tomorrow’s action at Rising Sun Turf Club will be followed by the second event on April 1st at Port Mourant and the 3rd and final race in the series is fixed for April 29th again at Rising Sun Turf Club. Both meets at the Rising Sun Turf Club will have the following 1st place cash prizes in the respective classes: C-Class and Lower $1 million, F class and Lower/ E- Class Non-earners/Last Start - $400,000, 3-year-old Guyana Bred - $350,000, H1 and Lower - $300,000, J/K & Lower - $240,000, K Class Non
earner last start -$230,000 and L & Lower - $200,0000. Meanwhile, the final leg in Corentyne will have the slightly bigger 1st prizes which are as follows: C-Class and Lower - $1.2 million, F class and Lower/E- Class Non-earners/Last Start $500,000, 3-year-old Guyana Bred - $400,000, H1 and Lower - $350,000, J/K & Lower $240,000, K Class Non earner last start -$200,000 and L & Lower - $150,0000. There will be bonuses for any horse that win all three of their races in the Triple Crown event with a maximum bonus payout amounting to $500,000. According to the organisers of the event,
horses will not be promoted nor demoted for any events in their classes as to give them the opportunity to win the bonus and to be hailed the “Triple Crown” champion in their class. The three-leg championship will be competed under the rules of the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee. Transportation for horses to and from the Corentyne to the Rising Sun race track will be provided for less than half of the price that is currently paid for the Championships. As an incentive any horse that participate in the Triple Crown event and wins 3 races, even if it’s 3 races on two of the Triple Crown race days,
will be granted free entry to the Guyana Cup 2018 horserace mega meet. The drawing of the grand raffle has been fixed for the final leg on April 29th. The raffle will see the winner driving away with a 2011 Nissan Tida sedan car, which is the first prize. The other prizes on offer are a 125 motor cycle,
Samsung 40" Smart TV, 2samsaung cell phones, a stove, microwave and a Refrigerator. Any information on the event can be sourced by contacting: Chandu Ramkissoon: 624-9063/608-9063/232-0633; Alan Podmore: 232-9115/ 6191909 and Nikita Ross: 6624668.
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Appiah family honours Berbice eldest active cricketer, Zamin Hamid
Zamin Hamid proudly displays his tokens in the presence of Mukesh Appiah left and Matthew Appiah right. Fyrish Second Division cricketer, 73 year old Zamin Hamid, was recently honored by the Appiah family for his contribution to the development of the game as a player and administrator and his role in community development. He is also the eldest active player in the County of Berbice. He participated in the inaugural Ramnarine Appiah Memorial Cricket Competition and was one of the outstanding bowlers. He also participates in New Building Society Limited and Raffik and Sons Second Division Cricket Competitions and every other tournament organised by the Berbice Cricket Board. At a simple ceremony held recently, Mukesh Appiah presented a beautiful plaque
to Hamid with his photograph engraved, medals, trophies and a button. The recipient expressed gratitude to the Appiah family for recognising his contribution to society in general and promised that he will continue to help with the development of the game in the county. Appiah praised Hamid for staying healthy at that age to the extent he can still play the game. He urged the youngsters around to emulate the attitude and commitment of this senior citizen. Other senior citizens honored were the oldest living resident in the area, 97 year old Gulcharran Kandie, Bharrat Budhram, Partab Mangal and Nelson Crandon.
First F1 test leaves questions to be answered LONDON (Reuters) Lewis Hamilton declared his new Mercedes to be the big sister of last year’s temperamental title winner but Formula One’s first pre-season test of 2018 still left plenty of room for conjecture. The four-times world champion, who can expect to start the campaign in Australia on March 25 as a favorite, said bad weather, a resurfaced and smoother track and heavier cars had made comparisons tricky.Hamilton was fastest over the opening four days at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya with a lap of one minute 19.333 seconds on Thursday, after snow and rain blew out Wednesday’s track action. The time was quicker already than anything the Briton did in 2017 pre-season testing, when Mercedes were behind
Saturday March 03, 2018
Kaieteur News
only Ferrari, and not far off the 1:19.301 that team mate Valtteri Bottas produced on day six of last year. And he did it on the medium Pirelli tires, slower than the ones used by Ferrari — whose best lap was a 1:19.673 by Sebastian Vettel on softs on Tuesday. But plunging track temperatures made it hard to get heat into the tires. “The track is quicker than it was in the past, much smoother. A lot more grip,” offered Hamilton by way of explanation.“It’s difficult to say whether the car’s that much better or how much of that is the track and how much is the grip. And how much of that is the tires. “So over the next days, I guess next week, we’ll get a better understanding.” The second, and final, four-day test in Barcelona starts next Tuesday.
Hamilton felt the new W09 seemed a much better car than last year’s ‘diva’, a nickname bestowed on it early on by team boss Toto Wolff for its sometimes twitchy and temperamental behavior. If he felt ready to race in Melbourne, he recognized there was still plenty of work to lay the “building blocks for a title fight”. “But we have no idea where people are,” he added.”It looks like Red Bull’s quite quick, looks like the Ferrari’s quite quick but no-one really knows anything.”One certainty is that the cars are heavier to handle as a result of the new halo head protection device, which adds at least another seven kilograms.However, teams test with a variety of fuel loads and settings, which makes a comparison of the times fairly meaningless.
Nagamootoo congratulates Foster urges County Boards to vote wisely By Sean Devers Former Berbice, Guyana and West Indies U-19 Wicketkeeper, 41-year-old Vishal Nagamootoo is the latest former National Cricketer, following his former Guyana team mate Ramnaresh Sarwan, to congratulate Hilbert Foster on his ascendency to the position of President of the Berbice Cricket Board. The Berbician said he hoped that Elections of the Demerara and the Guyana Cricket Boards are held as soon as possible to bring back some normalcy to Guyana’s cricket. “But for this to happen the County Boards need to pull together and vote wisely, since I feel that if the different factions fight each other depending on who they support only the cricketers will suffer,” Nagamootoo said. Born in Whim, Corentyne, Berbice, on January 7, Nagamootoo is the younger brother of former West Indies leg-spinner Mahendra Nagamootoo and is confident that Foster can move Berbice cricket forward. “Since I was a young boy playing for Port Mourant, I have known Mr. Foster and one of the things affecting Berbice cricket is lack of sponsorship for competitions. Mr Foster can solve that problem since he seems to be very good with marketing and gets plenty of sponsorship for Rose Hall Town (cricket teams). I am confident that he can do the same for Berbice cricket,” said Nagamootoo, whom many felt was unlucky not have played at least for the West Indies ‘A’ team. “Now that Berbice has had its Elections, I have heard that there could be some changes at the GCB. Many of cricketers in Guyana want to see changes at the GCB but they can’t talkout since they fear victimization,” claimed Nagamootoo, the nephew of Guyana’s Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo Although Nagamootoo moved to the USA in 2005, he still follows Guyana’s Cricket and is disappointed Guyana’s cricket is riddled with politics, Court Cases and Administrators who don’t seem to care about the development of the
Hilbert Foster players, but take all the credit when the team wins. “Looking at Guyana winning for four years in a row (First Class tournament) I never knew that there was so much politics, Court Cases and a don’t care attitude for the players by those running Guyana’s cricket until I came home and spoke with cricket people in Berbice and Georgetown,” Nagamootoo told Kaieteur Sports from his home in New York.I understand that there are persons who run Guyana’s Cricket as if it’s their own business and if you are not in the right faction you are sidelined. I want to see changes when the GCB elections are held and an atmosphere where everyone can work together to take Guyana’s cricket forward,”
stated Nagamootoo, also the nephews of Test greats Rohan Kanhai and Alvin Kallicharran. “I believe that if changes are not made in Guyana and West Indies Cricket, things will continue to go down. Some people believe that it is their right to be in a position forever even if they are not doing anything for the game but only for themselves and we must find a way for this kind of attitude to stop. Everyone must work together and their first interest must be the cricket,” lamented Nagamootoo, who says it was a shame that West Indies has to qualify for the next World Cup. Nagamootoo, who became a Father on September 17 last year, has 116 dismissals in a 61-match First-Class career which began against Barbados in 1996 in Jamaica and ended against the Leewards in Essequibo in 2005. He also played 31 Regional 50-over games for Guyana and his only FirstClass century was made when he scored an unbeaten 115 against West Indies ‘B’ in St Croix in 2003 and shared in an unfinished 198 run-ninth wicket stand with West Indies ‘A’ team Manager Rayon Griffith (84*) which is still a Guyana record.
Vishal (left) and Mahendra Nagamootoo.
Everest Masters overcome Bacchus XI Everest Masters defeated Imam Bacchus XI in a 25-over contest played recently at Imam Bacchus ground, Affiance. Batting first, Imam Bacchus XI managed 124-7 with Fazir Khan scoring 33, Roy Gonsalves 23, Laxmikant Narine 16 and Beesham Seepersaud 10. Rakesh Gangaram snared 333; Rajesh Singh had 2-15, while there was a wicket each for Saheed Mohamed and Ronald
Jaisingh. Everest Masters responded with 126-3 in 20.1 overs. Hemraj Garbarran struck 46 while Ramesh Narine made 26 not out, Saheed Mohamed 22 not out and Sahadeo Hardaiow 16. Seepersaud, Narine and Khan picked up a wicket each. A return fixture is billed for Easter Weekend.