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Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Another round of confrontation Guyana is a country of conflict and confrontations. Ever since the Ramotar Government failed to win an absolute majority in parliament it has had to deal with serious objections from the opposition. So serious were the objections that the opposition has been using its majority vote in the National Assembly to effectively defeat those government measures that it did not approve of. The government is having a torrid time to pass the antimoney laundering Bill largely because the opposition cannot find favour with the Bill as it is. The opposition has tabled its amendments and one hopes that these amendments would be recognised for what they are and the Bill passed. But sometimes, the government needs not do anything to spark a confrontation. A case in point was yesterday’s walkout from the National Assembly by the Alliance For Change. The occasion was the presentation of the 2014 Budget by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh. There was no indication that this would happen. In fact, after six of the members had walked out a lone member, Ms. Valerie Garrido-Lowe, remained seated. She soon left but the suggestion is that, she was disapproving of her colleague’s action. At issue is the fact that the government did not consult with the opposition while preparing the Budget. As far as the Alliance For Change was concerned it was ignored and since it represents a section of the population it needed to represent the interests of that section of the population. Indeed from the first time President Donald Ramotar recognized that he had a parliamentary minority, he openly stated that he would work with the opposition parties for the good of Guyana. These parties must have taken him at his word but they were sadly disappointed when they failed to be consulted on certain national issues. They are being consulted by the recent move by Brazil to spearhead hydroelectric development in Guyana. They were consulted on certain aspects of existing development programmes. For example, when the Amaila Falls hydroelectric project hit a stone wall based on the public outcry at the cost of the project, the government sought to take the opposition into its confidence to explain all the ramifications. The government told the opposition about the sources of funding and of Government’s contribution. Indeed, for the government to spend money on the project parliamentary support was needed. With its majority, therefore, the government could have simply shut down measures by the government to spend public funds. Indeed, this is more so in theory because in two previous budgets the opposition voted to cut expenditures to certain areas. However, the government proceeded to spend the money with utter disregard for whatever the parliament voted. The opposition is threatening to have the Finance Minister be sanctioned for a breach of the parliamentary regulations. He disregarded the need for parliamentary approval and spent money already cut from the budget. It is the same Finance Minister who was supposed to invite the opposition for meetings on the budget. These meetings never got going because whatever timings the Finance Minister proposed failed to find favour with the opposition parties. Before the Finance Minister could have completed his budget presentation the opposition was signalling that the budget would not be passed as presented. There would not be any bail out for the sugar industry. From our point of view, if sugar is one of the pillars of the economy then it becomes necessary that everything be done to support that pillar. Not so, says the opposition.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
We must work together to end this gross and systemic scourge DEAR EDITOR, On March 24, the world observed ”International Day for the Right to the Truth Surrounding Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims”. On this day, we honour the memory of victims of gross and systemic human rights violations and promote the importance of the right to truth and justice. The Colwyn Harding Support Group, human rights groups, and other public-spirited supporters picketed outside of the Providence Magistrate’s Court demanding justice for Colwyn Harding. Call it irony or fate that his court date coincided with such an important day for those involved in the struggle for human rights. Whatever it is,
human rights groups are determined to continue the fight until Colwyn Harding receives justice. The Colwyn Harding case is among the gravest violations of dignity and human rights in our country’s history. The truth of the case is known, yet the State has shown disinterest in pursuing and representing that truth, despite the conflicting testimony of the police officers involved and the clear evidence presented by Colwyn Harding and his support group. Nevertheless, what is beyond question is that since the incident, Colwyn Harding was hospitalized for more than 33 days and has had to undergo surgery to repair his damaged intestines. He has accused
the police of abusing, brutalizing and raping him with a condom-covered baton. In fact, the state in its most recent response has said that Colwyn is not entitled to compensation despite the evidence of two medical examinations - one conducted at a private hospital in Guyana and another by a doctor in Jamaica – both indicating that there was trauma to the upper rectum, and that this was consistent with Colwyn Harding’s account of what had happened. Ranks of the Guyana Police Force have been accused of abusing their power and using sexual violence against citizens, which amount to gross human rights violations. The Guyana Police Force
is the state agency charged with security and protection of the citizenry, but instead has been responsible for multiple assaults on the human rights of the citizens it should be serving. These crimes by the police, ostensibly called “interrogation”, have increasingly used sexual violence as a means of torture. Torture is a gross human rights violation for which the State’s connivance, tacit or active complicity should not be ignored. The case of Colwyn Harding and Twyon Thomas are examples of these brutal “interrogation” methods which are flagrant rights abuses. Still gross human rights violations refer, too, to the (Continued on page 28)
Something more for the various associations of practitioners of the Bar to sleep on P r o f e s s o r B i s h o p ’s contribution had a niche dimension – in terms of his work in the organisational and administrative arena – at U.G and at the Faculty of Law at Cave Hill, in the first instance; followed by his active participation in the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission which was responsible for appointing the first panel of Justices of the Caribbean Court of Justice. His appointment to the Commission coincided with the confirmation of Professor Harold Lutchman, a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, to the Board of Trustees. The above apart, there is
reasonable cause to acknowledge Professor Bishop’s high rate of success in graduates from the Hugh Wooding Law School, some of whom have practised, and are practicing, in the Caricom Region. It is against this educative background that one is apprehensive of the prospect of extending the current local cast of jurists, (by more than 50 per cent) into a theatre where (Sukulike) the selected players would not have been
Constitution query
DEAR EDITOR, There is an interesting story making the rounds in which former United States President Jimmy Carter is reported to have said that he believed that United States intelligence agencies are spying on him. “You know, I have felt that my own communications are probably monitored” President Carter reportedly said in an interview with NBC. “And when I want to communicate with a foreign leader privately, I type or write a letter myself, put it in the post office and mail it.” These are indeed strong statements coming from a former President of the United States, especially against the backdrop of two world leaders who expressed
DEAR EDITOR, Following up on my letter published in KN Wednesday, March 05, 2014 under the caption ‘How many viewers knew that the Chief Justice of Belize was also a Guyanese’, it was brought to my attention that the late Aubrey Bishop, successively Chancellor of the Judiciary, and Professor at the law Faculty of the University of Guyana, (and more importantly, my lifelong friend and colleague) had been omitted from the pantheon of Guyanese luminaries listed. Perhaps it was overlooked that the list included those who actually practised in various capacities in the Regional courts.
DEAR EDITOR, After reading your article in a recent Kaieteur edition, I went back to the Guyana constitution, section 90, and cannot find the word consecutive. So I am confused. It is stated that someone can only be re-elected once. I read that to mean that the two terms can either be consecutive or with a break in between....but just two terms. Am I reading the wrong version of the Constitution? Thank you for helping me to get the facts. Faiyaz This sends a message that the opposition is prepared to see sugar go the way of so many failed industries and businesses. The debate is going to be most acrimonious because sugar represents the mainstay of the ruling party. The electricity company is also in need of a bail out. The opposition says that it is not enamoured with any US$18 million bailout. Blackouts are a common feature. Last year when the opposition cut the subvention there was the promise of electricity rate hikes. This was not to be. Perhaps we will see a repeat this year.
tested and evaluated by a legitimately functioning Judicial Service Commission – to confirm (or otherwise) a rather simplistic equivalency of quality to numbers. More important, perhaps, is the eloquent silence on any recommendations from the expansive Justice Reform Project that could be relevant to this imminent engagement. Something more for the various associations of practitioners of the Bar to sleep on! E.B. John
An interesting story making the rounds their displeasure over the extent to which private conversations with other world leaders were secretly monitored by US intelligence. It would be recalled that Mrs Angela Merkel, German Chancellor and Brazilian President Dilma Rouseff have both protested against undue surveillance of private conversations by US spying agencies. Former President Jimmy Carter is known for his advocacy of democratic elections throughout the world and was highly instrumental in the restoration of democracy to Guyana on October 5 1992 after twenty-eight years of dictatorial rule. Hydar Ally
Tuesday March 25, 2014
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
A TRIBUTE TO MRS. DEBORAH BACKER DEAR EDITOR, It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that I pen this letter to pay tribute and respect to, arguably, one of Guyana’s most loved politicians. I have known Mrs. Deborah Backer for many years and during those many years I had great difficulty using a single adjective to describe her - feisty, controversial, jovial, charismatic, heckling, interesting, witty, and fearless, to name a few. Madam Backer, as I sometimes called her, had a personality that was highly infectious, she captivated people with her humour and brilliance. News of her passing triggered initial doubts, anxiety and serious disbelief on my part. I knew she was not well but I thought she was on her way to a great recovery. I tried to imagine her lying still, lifeless, not breathing but all I could see was a fidgeting and curious Debbie. I tried to imagine her not talking, but the image of her being simply numb did not fit her persona. I was finally convinced she truly left this world after the fourth phone call I received that reaffirmed the
“inconvenient truth”. Deborah Jan Backer has truly gone to the great beyond. Debbie was truly gone! Deborah Backer was no ordinary politician. She was smart, deliberate, tactful, strategic, opinionated, logical and more than anything humorous. Her presentation and hard work in the National Assembly was a testament to her belief in preparation. I believe that it was her work in this arena, coupled with the various roles she played in the PNCR, which has created lasting impressions of her on even the most naïvely politically-minded Guyanese. Mrs. Backer was never timid or fearful to speak her mind, she had an opinion and she simply thought she had a right to be heard. She took her various responsibilities in the Parliament very seriously and worked to ensure that she represented well. She never let up on an opportunity to represent the people of Guyana as she skillfully found ways to make necessary and critical interventions. I have had the opportunity to sit at the level of the PNCR executive committee with Debbie Backer, I have served
alongside her in the parliament of Guyana; we’ve had several campaign experiences together, we protested alongside each other, we shared many spaces on the local political stage, and there was never a dull moment. Our views did not always coincide but we were always respectful of each other’s views. I am humbled and fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with this talented woman, who has certainly helped to reposition, and redefine the role of, women in politics. We shared our last stage together in December 2012 when I introduced her at a massive public meeting at the Stabroek Market Square. This was a meeting organized by Youth Coalition for Transformation, where the organization announced its support for Mrs. Backer to be Speaker of the National Assembly. When I called her to inform her of the decision of the group she immediately responded in her usual jovial way “Lurlene y’all ain’t setting me up, right?” We laughed then she humbly expressed gratitude and indicated that she would be
at the meeting. To loud cheers and chants of “Debbie, Debbie” from the large enthusiastic crowd, she humbly thanked the people, for their support then exited the stage. As I reflect on her tenure in the parliament there are some interesting moments which immediately caused me to chuckle. One such moment was when she asked one Minister to spell the “big word” he was pronouncing. Many, including the most obstinate members of Parliament, could not hide their emotions and so simply laughed out loud while others tried desperately to keep a straight face. Debbie’s intervention was sudden and sharp and left her target startled. Madam Backer was an “outside the box thinker” she thought of the most novel ways to make things happen. I recalled that during the Death Squad era we had planned a protest action, during a parliamentary sitting, against the then Minister of Home Affairs. As we tried to decide on the form of action, Debbie suddenly lit up and said ‘let’s wear baby bibs with slogans and put them on in the
parliament’ and this we did. Debbie Backer’s passing is a wound to the PNCR, the National Assembly and to Guyana. She has made her contribution, to national development. Her fight against injustice and discrimination is well noted. Guyana has lost a brilliant and capable politician, a patriot and daughter. The people have lost a role model, and a friend. The PNCR has lost a dependable and capable comrade. I thank her family for sharing her with the rest of us.
Sincere condolences to the family, relatives and friends of the Late Deborah Jan Backer, may you find comfort in the fact that she has been a positive influence in the life of the nation, she has impacted the lives of many, she has made her contribution, she has fought the good fight and God is still in charge. Mrs. Backer will surely be missed! May her soul rest in peace! Sleep on champion, sleep on! Lurlene Nestor
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A SHOCKING DECLINE IN MORAL VALUES In the days of yore when poverty was three times what it is today, the only time you would find an old person in a homestead for the elderly was when that person did not have any immediate family. An old person would never be institutionalized so long as he had sons, daughters and even nephews and nieces that were alive. The homesteads for the elderly were for those who were indigent, with nowhere else to go. They ended up in those homes when they had nowhere to turn but the road. When in these homesteads, these persons would never enjoy a visit from family or friends. The only persons they met were those who worked at the institutions or those who came to visit at Christmas time to bring some treats for the inmates. People took care of their elderly relatives. No matter how sick or confined someone became, they could always count on the support of their relatives. No matter how cramped was the living quarters of
the relatives, space was always found for sick and elderly relatives. I am not saying that the elderly who lived with family were always treated kindly. In fact, there are horror stories of exploitation and neglect. But no matter how bad things were, it was mainly unheard of for relatives, especially immediate f a m i l y, t o d u m p t h e i r relatives into a homestead. There was always a place for the elderly in homes. Today we are becoming westernized. The elderly are being placed in home for the aged as soon as their productive days are over. Children, nephews, nieces and grandchildren are no longer as interested as the older generation in taking care of their elderly relatives. The quickest opportunity they have to place them in institutions, the better. But what is indeed very sad is to see the large numbers of elderly and infirm patients at the public hospitals who have been abandoned by their
Dem boys seh ...
Budget mean Bud-dy get, says Ash Knee Monday was Budget Day. This year de whole nation get to realize that in Guyana, Budget mean Bud-dy get. Ash Knee announce that dem old people get US$3 raise per month pun dem pension. That money gun buy one cheap lunch fuh one day in de month. That could barely buy a plate of veggie cook-up. But in de same budget he buddy dem really get. He tell Brazzy that dem guh build another hotel. That would be de two of dem pension. Dem boys want tell he that by announcing that he trying to shift attention away from de Marriott. Dem boys ain’t falling fuh that. Brazzy still got to announce de secret investor in de first one. Dem boys seh that dem gun only put Buddy as a front as de investor in de casino, restaurant and night club. Dem boys done hear that it done finalise. Last year, just like this year dem throw pennies at de masses and billions at dem friends and family. Every time when dem seh that is de largest budget ever is because dem got to add on more of dem man joining de party. Last year dem tek plenty of de budget money and put ads in de Hard Times paper. This is Jagdeo paper. Dem done start doing that this year already. Irfaat Ministry is de one that tekking part of de budget and throwing it in de Hard Times paper. Dem throwing nuff money in de Learning Channel but most people can’t see it. Whether it show or not dem got to pay Bobby. Is de same thing dem had to do when Bobby claim how dem owe fuh he warehouse space. This was de same man who claim that he never charge fuh warehouse space. De big joke was that when Ash Knee done present de budget dem poor people still waiting to see wha dem got to get. Last year he announce a five per cent increase. Luncheon mek it clear that NIS ain’t paying no five per cent. It had to mek back de money it spend behind Clico suh de poor people got to suffer. Dem boys seh that it is like de poor people pay Jagdeo, Luncheon and Brazzy and de government to gamble wid dem money. Talk half and pray that Donald ain’t got to depend pun de budget fuh live.
relatives. It is a shocking statement about the change in morals in our country. No wonder Guyana is so cursed with ill-luck. How can any good come to any county when some persons are so heartless as to abandon their sick elderly relatives in the hospital? These persons were taken to the hospital for treatment. They are being abandoned. Even though they are fit to be discharged, they cannot be put out of the hospital because there is nowhere for them to go. The hospital is between a rock and a hard place. If they discharge the elderly patients and these patients end up on the road, the hospital will be accused of being inhumane. But these patients have turned the hospital into a home for the destitute because they are fit to be
Teenage muggers granted $100,000 bail Two teenage boys, who allegedly brandished an ice pick and mugged a man in the heart of the city five days ago, were each granted bail in the sum of $100,000 when they appeared before a senior Magistrate yesterday. The Georgetown Magistrates’ Court heard that Godfrey Pereira and Dwayne Wallis accosted, choked and pulled an ice pick on Deodat Singh before they made off with his belongings on March 20, last. Sin g h was reportedly walking along a city street when the duo attacked him, relieved him of his bicycle and a quantity of cash, and ran away. The matter was reported and subsequent investigations led to their arrest. They were yesterday arraigned for robbery with aggravation before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry and granted $100,000 bail. They were also ordered to return to court on April 11. Exactly one month ago, Pereira had confessed to stealing a $130,000 Samsung cellular phone and was released on probation after a report was prepared and presented to the court by a social worker. He was on that occasion ordered in their custody and sent to the Guyana Industrial Training Centre for the next two years, instead of a threeyear-jail sentence.
discharged but they are still living in the hospital because they have been abandoned by their relatives who no longer wish to have the burden of taking care of them. If these elderly persons were earning NIS pensions and had other sources of income, their relatives would have been fighting amongst themselves to take them in because the income from the elderly person would have been used to help defray the expenses of the household that is taking care of them. This is one of the reasons why it is so shocking to witness the decline in concern for the e l d e r l y. T h e e l d e r l y i n Guyana have never had it s o g o o . To d a y t h e N I S pension is very healthy, plus they receive old age pension. This adds up to a good small piece every month and once this money is there, the
relatives will want the elderly in their homes because they can benefit from all these social security benefits that the elderly are receiving at the moment. But no sooner is it learnt that the elderly are not receiving NIS pensions, they are deposited in the hospital or put out in the streets. This is not right. The solution is not to build more homesteads for these persons. The solution is to find families for them to live with. When you reach a certain age, you need not only the physical security of family but also the emotional security of loved ones, something that is lacking in public institutions for the elderly. Old people need to be around their family;
they need to live with them. Unfortunately, the younger generation has no time or appreciation for the elderly. Instead of taking care of them and being happy to have the elderly in their homes, these aged persons are being put out to pasture. Or rather the elderly are being deposited into the hospital where they are occupying critical bed space. It is great shame and a curse on this nation that these things are happening.
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=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Is President Ramotar ungrateful to Bharrat Jagdeo? There can be absolutely no doubt that Ralph Ramkarran would have been the president of Guyana if the PPP was a democratic organization that allowed its members to vote in a countrywide election for the PPP presidential candidate in 2011. Mr. Ramotar got the selection because he was facilitated by Mr. Jagdeo. By the time Mr. Jagdeo’s tenure
came to an end, not even Cheddi Jagan and Mrs. Jagan had so manipulated the PPP to shape into a footcloth of the President of the country. Jagan and his wife did not have to use hegemony to control the PPP. The PPP leaders just naturally allowed them that domination. In Mr. Jagdeo’s case, his control was almost phenomenal when you take into consideration that he was
not the leader of the party at anytime and was by comparison with other PPP stalwarts during his presidency a political nobody not known for leadership qualities and intellectual erudition. President Hoyte controlled the PNC as a oneman show but Hoyte’s inheritance came at a time when he had already established himself as a top
man in the PNC’s history. In Mr. Jagdeo’s case no one in the PPP ever heard about him before he became President. Testifying for Jagdeo in the libel Jagdeo brought against me, Roger Luncheon said that he first knew about Mr. Jagdeo in 1992. How Mr. Jagdeo managed to subdue the PPP as a virtual little boy in the PPP makes for fantastic reading. Mr. Ramotar then knew he
could not manoeuvre his chess game away from Mr. Jagdeo’s imprint after he became president in 2011. This explains why after two years in power, all President Ramotar’s men and women are Mr. Jagdeo’s creatures. Mr. Ramotar was so shameless that he didn’t even add a new name to his 2011 Cabinet. Every face in that Cabinet was Mr. Jagdeo’s creation. Since Mr. Ramotar became president, all the important governmental and State functionaries, Ministers and party seniors believe that the real power behind the throne is Mr. Jagdeo. Therefore, when the editor of the Chronicle received a document about Mr. Jagdeo with a request by whoever to publish, she knew that it was the logical thing to do. Anyone in her place would have done that. The understanding was that this was a thing in favour of Mr. Jagdeo and therefore it came from a powerful source and must be printed. I don’t think the thought ever entered her head that she should check with anyone because it was unnecessary. The thing about a poll showing Mr. Jagdeo as the most favoured presidential candidate for the 2016 elections first appeared in the Guyana Times and given Jagdeo’s role in the Guyana Times, the Chronicle editor felt it was a done deal. The demotion of the editor is unfair for one fundamental reason – every other State personnel in her position would have done the same. If it is true that Mr. Ramotar acted against her
Frederick Kissoon then he is perhaps personally insulted. He probably didn’t like the format in which the item was printed but Mr. Ramotar cannot look Guyanese in the eyes and tell them that he is not beholden to Mr. Jagdeo. Mr. Jagdeo made Mr. Ramotar the President of Guyana. My guess is that Mr. Ramotar would have had to “humble” if Mr. Jagdeo had personally informed him that he wanted the item as the lead story in the Chronicle. People, especially the political pundits all over Guyana must be gripped with thoughts of a fight between a Jagdeo nest and a Ramnotar cabal. I think that is fiction. Mr. Ramotar is annoyed at the way the item was presented on the front page of the Chronicle. It begins and ends there. Mr. Ramotar is going to agree to a snap poll if the voices he looks up to for guidance in the PPP want an early election. As I was saying to Tacuma Oguenseye in the Kitty Market last Saturday morning, people in this country do not know the extent to which Mr. Ramotar is a second fiddle politician. He was never an initiator. He was never a thinker. He was never a doer. He was always a secondary guy. All those who think Mr. Ramotar has political substance should ask themselves why Mr. Jagdeo would have moved heaven and earth to see that Ramotar get the presidential slot for the 2011 elections. Once greater voices in the PPP want a snap poll Ramotar will comply whether or not he is the presidential candidate. The Chronicle thing irked him but he will come around. Little boys and messengers always do.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
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Brazilian consortium to finance Guyana’s hydropower survey A Brazilian consortium will be undertaking a prefeasibility study to determine the potential of hydropower in the Upper and Middle Mazaruni. The US$45M study will begin in April and will be of one year duration. Following will be a feasibility study to be conducted for another one year period. The consortium, comprising two engineering companies, OAS and Quieroz Galvao, will also be financing the construction of the hydropower facilities via a loan from the Brazilian Development Bank. As such, Guyana would not be indebted to a financial institution but has to allow the consortium to supply Brazil with power. Guyana will benefit from electricity and will receive royalty from the company. These announcements came during a Prime Ministerial press conference at the National Communication Network’s studio, yesterday. Among those present with the Prime Minister were Foreign Affairs Minister, Carolyn RodriguesBirkett; Amerindian Affairs Minister; Pauline Sukhai; Director General in the Foreign Service Ministry, Ambassador Elisabeth Harper; and Director of the Brazilian consortium, Rodrigo D’Olivieira. Providing a background to the project, Minister Rodrigues-Birkett said that in 2009 at the commission ceremony of the Takutu Bridge, both countries saw hydropower as an important part of the agenda. President Ignacio Lula Da Silva had said that Brazilian companies were willing to finance the construction of hydropower stations in Guyana. She added that the next year when President Lula attended the UNASUR Summit in Guyana, he was awarded the Order of Excellence. Discussions on hydropower commenced the next month. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between Guyana and Electro Braz, the agency to look at the Mazaruni/ Potaro Basin, she said. “We were approached by a consortium of Brazilian companies and after months of negotiations Prime Minister (Samuel) Hinds signed an MOU in October 2011. Thereafter, we decided that whichever company we used must come under the Guyana/Brazil Cooperation,” the Minister said.
Rodrigues-Birkett said that in December 2012, she signed an MOU to establish a working group on infrastructure projects: hydropower, Linden to Lethem Road, and a deep water port in Guyana. A JointCommission was established to monitor the activities for the completion of each project. With responsibility for energy in Guyana, Prime Minister Hinds said that consultations at the national level have begun. He said on March 19, last, Government engaged representatives of political parties in Parliament, the private sector and Executives of the National Toshaos’ Council. From March 20 the Prime Minister and a team consulted with several communities in Region Seven. The party visited Kamarang, Jawalla, Kako and Imbaimadai, among the locations in the Upper Mazaruni. According to Hinds, residents in the Upper Mazaruni were concerned that the project would result in their communities being flooded. However, the Prime Minister assured that Government will not engage in the project that would result in the flooding of the communities to the extent that
- Prefeasibility study to begin in April would have occurred with the designs of the 1970s. He said that from the 1970s to now technology has evolved and the approach to the design would reduce the reservoir by 90 percent or more in comparison to the previous one. Hinds noted that a number of studies to pursue hydropower in Guyana were done but were never successful in advancing long-term sustainable project. The hydropower station in Upper Mazaruni would have an installed capacity of 3,000 megawatts and the other in Middle Mazaruni would have an installed capacity of 1,500 megawatts. These data were obtained in a preliminary study conducted by the consortium. According to Mahender Sharma, Head of the Guyana Energy Agency, the prefeasibility and feasibility studies for the Upper and Middle Mazaruni are intended to identify the social and environmental economic impacts of a hydropower plant in the areas. The study would seek to collect information on areas such as the size of the
Foreign Affairs Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett reservoir, storage required, how much power could be generated at any one time over a hydrological cycle, cost of construction, cost of operation, and cost of transmission line. The study would also look at the construction of the roads network to access the facilities. He said that another aspect of the project is
building an interconnected transmission line and electrical interconnection line between Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and Brazil. The idea is to put power on the international grid for marketing purposes. According to RodriguesBirkett, “We all know that Brazil needs additional energy and she is willing to buy from whoever is willing to sell. Guyana needs cheap and reliable energy, and to expand our revenue base as well. “We know that the three countries that surround us-Suriname, Brazil and Venezuela— have both hydro and oil. We have neither as yet and so it is important we work to get this done. If feasible, of course the excess energy would be sold to Brazil. “And I want to stress excess energy because we are hoping at that time for additional energy even with the construction of the Amaila Project.” She noted that currently an ongoing study funded by
the Inter-American Development Bank is looking at that interconnection. “So we could put power in the transmission lines and where it is needed we sell it…At this point Brazil has indicated its interest from Guyana hence the studies to be done.” Early in the negotiations aspect of this project, Government and the consortium have to work out the financing aspect of supplying the other countries with electricity. Hinds said that quite a lot of power would be sold to Brazil. He explained that there will be moneys paid to Guyana for producing the electricity utilizing waterfalls. However, at a later stage there will be financial engineers working through questions as to who will earn revenue sold to the countries.
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GTUC is no longer the Guyana records dip in voice of workers - PPP TB/HIV co-infection rate The Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is of the opinion that the good name which the Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC) enjoyed has been tarnished with the recent outburst by its General Secretary, Lincoln Lewis. These sentiments were expressed by PPP’s General Secretary Clement Rohee who at a media conference at Freedom House yesterday expressed that the GTUC is no longer the voice of the workers. Instead, he said that it “has been hijacked by a selfish few who regrettably have transformed that body into a political forum for grand-standing.” “In the last few weeks we have witnessed the morphing of the GTUC into a puppet of its General Secretary in pursuit of his political and personal agenda.” According to Rohee, Mr. Lewis in his recent declarations condemned the National Assembly because of the Motion agreed on to unanimously restore the Government subvention to the GTUC. “Lincoln Lewis’ swift condemnation and failure to accept the unanimously agreed on Motion by the National Assembly is another indication of the personal agenda, rather than workers interests. One would have thought that the GTUC would
GS of the GTUC Lincoln Lewis have brought its executives together, consult with whatever membership it has and engage its allies (A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change) as a minimum before going public with a position” said Rohee. Rohee said Lewis embarked on a confrontational rather than a negotiated course with the bauxite company RUSAL. “Lewis boasts that he speaks on behalf of organized labour, and is famous for citing Article 13 of the Constitution of Guyana regarding ‘meaningful consultation” yet according to Rohee “he is not prepared to walk the walk. This is but a far cry from how a trade unionist should be working in
the interest of the workers, rather in pursuance of personal egos bigger than life.” Rohee outlined that as it regards the workers at RUSAL and their issue over the collective agreement with the company that “this matter has been engaging the attention of the Ministry of Labour. The Ministry has sought for a number of years to bring the parties together with a view to arriving at a consensual conclusion.” The General Secretary also expressed that Lewis “rudely and unreasonably intruded into the privacy of former President Bharrat Jagdeo.” “The PPP is of the view that former President Jagdeo is not only entitled to his privacy, but also to his benefits as a former President. These benefits include medical expenses. The PPP upholds the rights, benefits and entitlements of all the workers in our country and is vehemently opposed to any attempt to diminish the entitlements of workers” said Rohee. According to Rohee, it should be noted that “the threats which Mr. Lewis has been making…is clearly another manifestation of (his) political extremism and anarchist predisposition…a serious danger to the maintenance of the peace and good order in Guyana.”
Although there has been a noticeable reduction in the Tuberculosis/HIV coinfection rate, the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS) is still signalling some concern. Reports out of NAPS reveal that while there was 31 per cent of such cases in 2012 this had reduced to 25 per cent by the end of last year. However, Head of NAPS, Dr Shanti Singh, is adamant that “it is still a serious concern for us because 25 per cent is significant enough that it is impacting on mortality among the HIV population.” For this reason, Dr Singh, who was yesterday fielding questions from media operatives, said that NAPS has been collaborating with the National TB Control programme to ensure that the TB/HIV response is aligned with the World Health Organisation ‘12 Points’ Plan that comprehensively covers what the response, in this regard, should really be. Supporting Dr Singh’s disclosure was Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud, who amplified during a stakeholders’ forum yesterday the need to “broaden the fight against TB and HIV and take this opportunity today, World TB Day, to realise and recognise...that most of the deaths that are reported from HIV are actually associated with tuberculosis.” According to Dr Persaud, at the moment the Health Ministry is looking to tackle the “dangerous combination of these two organisms and we need to put our thoughts
- but NAPS still worry about associated mortality
together and come up with good solutions that can solve the co-infection.” He alluded too to the importance of embracing the WHO’s ’12-Point Plan which emphasises screening for both persons infected with TB and HIV, as well as those who are at risk for either disease. Screening in all instances, he explained, always has the benefit of early treatment and better outcomes. And in order to address the co-infection dilemma, Dr Singh said that focus is being directed to key populations, a move that is clearly defined in the Ministry of Health’s HIVision 2020 Strategic Plan. As such, she noted that efforts are geared towards identifying “what groups of persons we are talking about
and what is the key prevention package needed to be delivered to those populations?” Among the priority populations are the Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) and Commercial Sex Workers (CSW) as defined in the HIVision 2020. And efforts to tackle the strategic populations, Dr Singh said, have in fact seen NAPS being able to garner significant support from donor partners in working with civil society organisations, as implementers, to deliver services to those key populations. Based on the country’s draft National AIDS Progress Report, there has been limited reduction in the number of people reached in the target populations. According to Dr Singh, “when we look at the data we have actually attributed that to the reducing funds that we have had coming in terms of support for the HIV response and particularly that for civil society organisations.” Nevertheless, she noted that the Health Ministry is hopeful that needful funds will soon be made available as Guyana has been able to sign the Global Fund Phase Two Grant which is likely to see the releasing of approximately US$14.6 million. A significant portion of that Grant, Dr Singh disclosed, would be used to help address efforts to target the vulnerable HIV/AIDS populations. Once the grant becomes available to Guyana it will be dispersed to sub-recipients and the NAPS Programme Manager is optimistic that “those will be signed in another month and actual implementation in terms of those programmes would be intensified within a month or two.”
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Education, Health, Public Works, Security gets lion’s share of Budget
City Hall’s statutory meeting ends prematurely …Town Clerk, Councilors walk out
Yesterday’s statutory meeting at City Hall ended prematurely when Mayor Hamilton Greene and members of the Council walked out after Town Clerk Carol Sooba and City Engineer Colvern Venture refused to answer “basic” questions forwarded by councilors. The councilors accused the Town Clerk of refusing to allow the administrative officer to answer “basic” questions relating to some buildings around the city. Mayor Greene suspended the meeting after councilors, including those of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), expressed dissatisfaction towards the actions of the Town Clerk and her staff. They were especially peeved when she told the councilors that the questions they wanted answered should be put into
writing. The councilors were asking questions pertaining to issues in the Council’s agenda which was up for consideration. One question which was asked by the Mayor referred to the City Engineer meeting deadlines as was mentioned in his report, but the Engineer sat without acknowledging that a question was being asked. The Town Clerk was fingered for not demanding that the staff respond to the Mayor. Another question which was put forward by Councilor Kamla Davi-Ross related to what requirements were necessary for persons desirous of opening liquor outlets and restaurants. The Engineer again responded in the same manner. Councilor Glaston George expressed grave concern over the danger posed by a leaning building located on Mandela Avenue and
D’Urban Street, calling it a “life and death situation”. When the Town Clerk advised that the questions asked by the Councilors should be put into writing, they (the councilors) erupted in disagreement. They pointed out that they were elected to not only ensure the well being of the city but that of its citizens. They slammed the Town Clerk for recommending written submissions when “basic” questions on current matters of welfare were being asked. Mayor Greene subsequently suspended the meeting and walked out with the Councilors. Sooba’s attempt to call back the Councilors proved futile. The Mayor has repeatedly accused the Town Clerk of “rude and unprofessional” behaviour. He described yesterday’s action as “ludicrous”.
Accused soldier warned not to ... From page 20 January 31. The mother of four was said to have been attacked in her bed around 23:00 hrs on Friday January 31, and slain after which her body was dragged to her backyard. The other occupant of the rented upper flat, Samantha Sabat, was subsequently found lying unconscious in the front yard. The British-based citizen was a guest of the Taylors.
She reportedly escaped by removing the panes from her bedroom window and jumping to the ground from the top flat of the two-storey structure. Sabat was treated at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for a suspected fractured arm and lacerations to her face and other parts of her body. A neighbour and the victim's son found Taylor's body, with hands bound behind her back in her backyard.
A post mortem later conducted showed that she suffered blunt trauma to the head, as well as injuries to the neck and other parts of the body. Death was due to shock and hemorrhage. The army rank, who was the girlfriend of one of Taylor's sons, was apprehended after Sabat, who survived the attack, fingered her as one of the individuals who forced their way into the residence and launched an attack on them.
Albouystown woman faces trial for ... From page 20 she died upon arrival. Hospital personnel then contacted law enforcement officers who apprehended the accused, as she waited outside the Accident and Emergency Unit of GPHC. During a preliminary hearing prior to the trial, Clarke's Attorney, George Thomas, had alleged that his client had suffered years of physical and emotional abuse at the hands of the victim. Thomas told the court that
Clarke's scars bear testimony to her situation. Thomas claimed on the night of the incident, his client as customary was under attack by her lover, when she (the victim) received her injuries. When the case came up in the High Court, last Wednesday, Thomas advised his client to remove her blouse in the dock to show scars on her arms. However the Prosecution, which is represented by Attorney -at- law Dhanika Singh, claimed that the ac-
Page 21
cused stabbed the victim in the neck, causing her death. Clarke has since pleaded not guilty to the offence before the Judge and jury. Police witness, Melissa Gilkes, who was the arresting officer on the night of the murder, and a taxi driver, who transported the accused and her injured lover to the Georgetown Public Hospital, have since given sworn evidence in the trial. The matter will continue today
Presented under the theme ‘A better Guyana for all Guyanese’, Education, Health, Public Works and the Security Sector will grab the lion’s share of the $220B Budget. Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh yesterday presented the estimates of National Expenditure for 2014 and said that the Ministry of Public Works will be given $13.7B for the construction of roads and bridges this year. Of that amount, $12.9B is for roads and $842M will be expended on bridges across the country. Last year Government invested $11.3B to continue the construction of the East Bank Demerara and East Coast Demerara four-lane highways; the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) access road; rural, community and hinterland roads; additional street lighting, and the rehabilitation of the Demerara Harbour Bridge. This year, according to Dr Singh, the four-lane access road to the CJIA and the East Coast Demerara four-lane highway are slated for completion. According to the Finance Minister, this year works will commence on the West Coast Demerara Road and will include pavement rehabilitation, pedestrian and cycle lanes in selected high traffic areas, and street lighting. He noted too that the widening of the East Coast Highway will continue and road reconstruction works for the upgrading of Better Hope to Belfield will commence. Dr Singh said, too, that construction of the Parika/ Ruby backdam roads will begin. It will open up access to over 330 farming households and over 2,000 acres of mixed crop farming. Dr Singh said that this year government will also complete a financial feasibility study for the construction of a bypass road from Ogle to Eccles which will open new areas for development and investment and create a second route to reduce the congestion for the East Bank Demerara traffic. “This will constitute the first phase in the development of an alternative route to the CJIA thereby linking our two international airports and opening up a new development corridor for the East Bank Demerara.” According to Dr Singh, $338M has been allocated for critical works to extend the life of the Demerara Harbour Bridge. A total of $6.6B has been budgeted for the CJIA. He said too that the relocation of the Guyana
Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh makes his way to the Chambers to present the 2014 Budget Defence Force engineering division at Timehri is targeted for completion to facilitate construction works on the new airport terminal building. According to the Finance Minister, this year, $1.9B is budgeted to ensure the further strengthening of the sea and river defence infrastructure with critical works being undertaken in Regions Two to Seven. Over the next five years, according to Dr Singh, Government will invest more than US$65M in infrastructural works and coastal zone management systems. In the Education Sector, the Minister announced that the new Education Strategic Plan for 2014 to 2018 is currently being finalised and is anticipated to focus on improving literacy rates, early childhood development, teacher training, enrolment in single sciences, technical vocational educational programmes, and more structured partnerships with private sector providers and parents. According to Dr Singh, in 2014, the sum of $32.3B has
been allocated to implement the first year of this new Education Strategic Plan. He said too that in the budget $2.9B has been allocated for the construction, rehabilitation, extension and maintenance of the nation’s educational facilities including a new and expanded Zeeburg Secondary School and the Kato Secondary complex. “We will commence implementation of a US$10M Universal Secondary Education initiative, which will facilitate the construction of new secondary schools and provision of materials for improved teaching techniques and technology assisted learning in mathematics.” The Minister advised that there will be continued emphasis on tertiary education and as such $1.4B has been set aside for both campuses of the University of Guyana, inclusive of $450M for the student loan programme. Dr Singh announced too that “later this year our students will have the option of online degree programmes for the first time ever”.
Page 22
Kaieteur News
PROPERTY FOR SALE 2 Income properties at bargain price - $40M negotiable Tel: 686-4899; 684-3718 FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
FOR SALE Toyota Forklift - Excellent condition, 4,000lbs capacity, 117" Lift, Solid Wheels, Automatic Transmission, 4 Cylinder LPG Motor. Call: 604-6108.
Spare for washing machine, microwaves,fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc call: 225-9032, 647-2943
L a rg e b e v e r a g e c o o l e r, two doors, 3 wheel motor bike – Call:227-1028; 2239719
Live/pluck chicken call: 650-4421, 220-9203
1 Canon Image runner #2525 – Contact: 652-0709
1 Music system, 3 crown Cooler chest/fridge 15 amps, Numark CD player cubic, good for shop use crossover & mixer, 2 base box $100,000- Call:683-4803, with 15" Mid range & tweeters 225-9871 – Call:619-2800 Barge 200ft in length as is – Fishing boat, 5" nylon Seine, Call:623-4045 40 Hp Yamaha - $1.6M - Tel: 267-1563; 691-3501 / 1 complete pools table, 1 no frost fridge, 1 electric stove, 1 4162667627 compressor C/W spray kit & One 14" river dredge in air-tool assembly. Owner migrating – Tel:641-6239 excellent condition - Call: 669-8985 One Mobile Food Caravan One hardly used cradle - Contact: 675-5448 $20,000 with accessories & one brand new play pen - 1 Used Model M Truck with winch. Price:$5M negotiable $33,000 - Call: 670-2343 – Contact:601-0763 Tractors: MF285 $2.8mil (neg) Ford 5000 $3.2mil (neg),Both Games PS2 $900, PSP $900, XBox 360 $2600 & PS3 $2600 & Good Condition -Call: Original Games Call: 672-2566 257-0212, 628-8487 Toyota Tacoma 4X4 Extra Cab 2002, Nissan Frontier $2.9M, 4X4 Extra Cab 2002, DJSystem - $2.8M– Tel:695-9807
6½ Month old Germand Shepherd, fully vaccinated – Contact:683-4832 or 263-5755
One Reciprocating Saw (brand: Chicago Electric) one Black & white photocopy and 600 Amp jump starter (brand: peak) – Call: 621-9604. colour copy - Tel:626-8586 . Complete sawmill operation Tibetan Terrier pupswith lots of equipment, Call:225-4780; 601-5927 customers & suppliers and PS3 CONTROLLERS, PS3 large land space – Contact & XBOX360 SYSTEMS, Swamee: 614-1466; 678-1421 EACH WITH TWO C O N T R O L L E R S , One Beef Saw – Call: 671-7482 ORIGINAL PS3, PS2, XBOX GAMEDISCS – CONTACT Quebra Pedra for Kidney MAX: 609-8132; 672-8569 Stones - Call:671-7482 COMPLETE SAWMILL with all new industrial machine, going business with contract - (Wanted Kabukalli Logs) Tel:684-5868.
Garoto Chocolates – Call: 6717482
Get our security system that monitors and recovers your car if stolen - $120,000 – Call: Tacoma Tundra lights & Parts 601-6392 - Tel: 641-1127 EDUCATIONAL 1 Toyota Raum fully air Balloon decorating classes – conditioned – Tel:678-6108, April 05 - Call: 225-3133; 613-7513 for more information 692-8419, 266-2771 and to register. Household items: Stove, bed, sofa, dishwasher, dresser, Practical Electronic courses sewing machine, coffee begining 7th April @ Abdol dispenser, printers & more – Electronics - Tel: 226-6551; 225-0391Balloon decorating Call:227-1028; 223-9719 classes – April 05 - Call: 2251 Stall @ Stabroek Market – 3133; 613-7513 for more information and to register. Tel:658-0115; 718-757-8031
Property for sale - Call:6275416 Unfinished two storey concrete house @ Bladen Hall E.C.D – Call:688-6316 Regent Street -US$800,000 negotiable – Call:623-4045 Campbellville (2buildings) $25M, Near Regent Street $35M, Lamaha Gardens $55M – Call Diana:227-2256; 626-9382 Sophia ‘C’ Field - $3M – Call:618-7483; 611-3835 Prime Business property, huge land space, 200’X50', next to Police Outpost @ Mc Doom 233-0570 Prime Property for sale at Light Street, Alberttown – Contact:639-3619, 619-7299 Sunflower @ 229 Bourda Georgetown – Call:269-1274; 269-0264; 647-8798 Zone Rber Block VII Parcel 1983, next to Parbhu Hardware, Parika - Tel:2691274; 269-0264; 647-8798
Tuesday March 25, 2014
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 GT TOOLS RENTAL, RAMSON SPECIAL - TEL: 675-0767; 627-5098 House in Diamond/Grove Tel:692-8513 Vreed-En-Hoop Junction: games station, stationery shop, photocopying machine & printing store, lessons, internet – Call:680-9905 One upper flat @ 6th Street Cummings Lodge ECD – Call:622-3580 1,2,3 Bedroom @ Lot 2 Anna Catherina W.C.D – Call J.Ali:276-0818 One Semi furnished apartment to rent at Industry ECD – Tel: 222-6001 Two bedroom bottom flat apartment fully grilled with overhead tank and parking, place in Herstelling. Call:6282660
Campbellville (2 buildings) $25M, Near Regent Street $35M, AA Eccles - $56M, Lamaha Gardens – $55M. Contact Diana: 227-2256; 6269382
VEHICLE FOR SALE
VEHICLE FOR SALE
1 Toyota Minibus pit-bull, BRR Series, immaculate condition, owner leaving country – Tel:629-3663
One RX-8 Mazda fully air conditioned, stick gear, wheel lights, fog lamps, power windows – Tel:653-2477
1 Toyota Hilux Single Cab 4X4 Passenger Diesel Turbo Bus, solid Axle pickup -$2.7M Tel: Late “NN” Series – Call: 617658-5193; 638-2525; 648-4374 3124 1 Toyota Will VS fully loaded, drop springs, etc. 1 Toyota 1- 2007 Toyota 4X4 Tacoma Auris Fully loaded – Call:623for sale Call: 670-3328 for 2999 more information. RX8 Price - $3M – Tel:602Toyota Tundra 4X4, Clean - 6024. $2.450M – Call: 662-6024 1 Suzuki R1 wagon (Jeep) One unregistered vehicle, Automatic, Fully Powered Toyota Premio – Call Sunil: with A/C, hardly used – Price:$1.3M Contact Rocky: 227-5950; 681-5470 621-5902/ 225-1400 Toyota 4 Runner; grey. Good condition – Call: 227-1028; 1 AT 212 Carina (Private) Automatic, fully powered 223-9719 with AC, alarm - Price:1.3M Unregistered Toyota Premio Contact Rocky:621-5902 $2.450, Toyota Spacio - $2.250 1- AT 192 Carina (Private) Tel: 616-3001; 628-4284 automatic, fully powered, mags, A/C - price$1.2M AT192 - Call: 602-0236 Contact Rocky:225-1400 Toyota Raum, Spacio, AT212, AT192, AT170, NZE and L- 600 CBR Bike - $350,000, 3VZ Touring wagon, Nissan E24 Tacoma Engine - $400,000 – Caravan – Tel: 644-5096; 697- Call:617-7113 1453 Spacio- Body kit, TV/DVD, One Honda Accord DX camera, dark interior, manual transmission, unregistered, price starting excellent condition – Call:618- $2.1M - Call: 617-2891 5972; 685-57-27; 218-1204. Toyota Hilux Solid axle 1 Freight liner hauler with pickups, gasoline & diesel. sleeping cab, 1 -48ft trailor Unregistered, excellent with treated wood – Call: condition - Call:691-2077 Rakesh 613-6979 EP-82 Starlet – Call: 685-9696
TO LET Wings Two bedrooms apartment – Tel:643-1131; 225-3234
LAND FOR SALE Romrima Trust Versailles @ W.B.D - Tel: 652-3707 House lots in Friendship. Tel: 692-8513 One Farm at Yarrowkabra 20.1 Acres and one house and land – Call: 265-3586 Bachelor’s Adventure, E.C.D, 100ftX120ft, title land – Tel:680-5944 3 Acres Land @ Parika Backdam E.B.E – Call: 6174837 Parafaite Harmonie - $1.3M and $1.5M, Schoonard - $2M, Herstelling – $3M Contact: 675-7292 MASSAGES American Style massage services- Call:678-7499 The Gents Spa: Deep tissue, Swedish massages, sport massage, aromatherapy, body scrubs Call: 657-5979
1 DAF 4X4 Bush Truck Winch - $3.8M - Tel:658-5193; 638-2525; 648-4374
Complete sawmill (i.e woodmizer mill, moulder etc) @ Eccles Industrial Site EBD. Call Ricahrd: 609-7677;233-2614
Toyota Fun Cargo, RZ minibus, IST, 4X4 Hilux VACANCY pickup - Tel: 644-5096; 6971453 Sales clerk. Written application @ Perfume We buy & sell vehicles for Dazzle, 137 Regent St. cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab Live in housekeeper 30-45yrs pickups; 2006 Tacoma- to take care of infant, long Call:680-3154 term employment - Call: 6978797
1 – 3 Bedrooms bottom & top flat front house near hospital vicinity @ East Street, fully grilled, AC, parking – Call:2253756; 678-1913
AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN & RZ & Pitbull buses, 7 seater super custom. Cash / termsCall:680-3154
Campbellville - $90,000, Queenstown -$US800, Atlantic Garden - $US600. Contact Diana:227-2256; 6269382
Campbellville - $60,000$100,000 -$US1200, Section ‘K’ - $US1200, Atlantic Gardens - $US600 – $US800 – Contact Diana: 227-2256; 6269382 CAR RENTAL Dolly’s Car Rental- Call: 2257126/226-3693- dollysauto rental@yahoo.com/ www. dolly sautorental.com Aidan’s Car Rental & Pickup Call: 645-7981/ 698-7807 Wings Car Rental - Call: 6431131
Mill Wright, Porters, clerk woodmizer, moulder and bandsaw operator, timber grant, manager - Call Richard:609-7675; 233-2614 SALON 2004 Toyota Raum $2M @ MRR Autos, Cheap online Make Up Courses, Artist vehicle deals – Call:691-7475; Trained & Certified in Trinidad. 626-9590 Call:660-5257,647-1773 One registered Allion 2003. Colour: Silver, In excellent condition- Call:665-4529; 6523820 Smart Choice Auto Sales: Unregistered: Premio, Allex, IST, Spacio, Allion – Call:6523820; 665-4529 CHEAPEST: - Pitbull, Manual Buses, IST, Allion – Tel:616-7635
Experienced hairdresser, must know to do hair & nails, experienced barber for interior location – Call:6655812; 233-2186; 697-6726 Natural Beauty Salon & Spa: Grove Market Street EBD Tele:265-4138,652-5800 specialized in everything for women
Continued on page 23
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 23
Malaysia says missing plane crashed in Indian Ocean (Reuters) - Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, which disappeared over two weeks ago en route to Beijing, crashed thousands of miles away in the southern Indian Ocean, Malaysian Prime
Minister Najib Razak said yesterday, citing new satellite data. All 239 people on board were presumed dead, airline officials said. Analysis of satellite information from British company Inmarsat had
Biker loses arm in Norton St. accident A biker lost his right arm at around 23.00 hrs yesterday when his CBR motorcycle crashed into a car on Norton Street Georgetown. According to reports, the biker, who was identified as Kevin Griffith, was riding west along Norton Street between Victor and Chapel Streets, when he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into a stationary car on the northern carriageway. The impact caused his arm to be ripped from his body. He and his motorcycle continued for several more feet before slamming into another vehicle. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for emergency treatment and while writhing in pain was heard asking for his arm. Minutes later, a police rank brought his severed arm to the Hospital in a bag but a porter was later observed taking it away.
shown that the Boeing 777’s last position was in the Indian Ocean west of Perth, Australia, Najib said in a statement. “This is a remote location, far from any possible landing sites,” he said. “It is therefore, with deep sadness and regret, that I must inform you that, according to this new data, Flight MH370 ended in the southern Indian Ocean.” He added that the families of the passengers and crew had been informed. “For them, the past few weeks have been heartbreaking. I know this news must be harder still,” he said. Relatives of those on board received the news in a Malaysia Airlines SMS message which said: “We have to assume beyond all reasonable doubt that MH370 has been lost and none of those on board survived.” After the message, there were hysterical scenes at the Beijing hotel where many of
Egyptian court sentences 529 Brotherhood members to death (Reuters) - An Egyptian court sentenced 529 members of the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood to death for murder and other offences yesterday, in a sharp escalation of a crackdown on the movement that is likely to fuel instability. Family members stood outside the courthouse screaming after the verdict - the biggest mass death sentence handed out in Egypt’s modern history, defence lawyers said. Turmoil has deepened since the army overthrew Egypt’s first freely elected president, Mohamed Mursi of the Muslim Brotherhood, in July. Security forces have killed hundreds of Brotherhood members in the streets and arrested thousands. Human rights groups said yesterday’s verdict suggested the authorities intended to tighten their squeeze on the opposition. State television reported the sentences without comment. A government spokesman did not immediately respond to calls. Several
government officials said they could not comment on judicial matters. Most of the defendants at yesterday’s hearing were detained and charged with carrying out attacks during clashes which erupted in the southern province of Minya after the forced dispersal of two Muslim Brotherhood protest camps in Cairo on August 14. Islamist militants have also stepped up assaults on the police and army since Mursi’s ouster, killing hundreds and carrying out high profile operations against senior interior ministry officials. “The court has decided to sentence to death 529 defendants, and 16 were acquitted,” defence lawyer Ahmed al-Sharif told Reuters. The condemned men can appeal against the ruling. The Muslim Brotherhood, largely driven underground, responded by calling for the “downfall of military rule” on its official website.
the relatives of those on board are staying. More than 150 of the passengers were Chinese. People wailed, cried and dropped to the floor. One woman shouted out: “It’s not possible, it’s not possible.” A Reuters reporter on the scene saw at least four people being carried away on stretchers. China’s government immediately demanded that Malaysia share all information and evidence which showed the plane went down in the Indian Ocean. Najib’s comments came as an Australian navy ship was close to finding possible debris from the jetliner after a mounting number of sightings of floating objects that are believed to parts of the plane. The search site is about 2,500 km (1,550 miles) southwest of Perth, in icy sub-Arctic seas that are in one of the most remote parts of the globe. The objects, described as a “grey or green circular object” and an “orange rectangular object”, were spotted yesterday afternoon, said Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, adding that three planes were also en route to the area.
LEARN TO DRIVE Shalom Driving School @ 2 Croal street. Fee $16,000Call:227-3869 Ultravoilet Driving School – Contact:231-2372;6022583;658-4015 Alleyne’s Professional Driving School @ 651 East Ruimveldt, Best Prices Call :226-9181; 613-0223; 668-9331
From page 22
WANTED SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Looking for a handyman with Mechanical and welding experienced – Tel: 233-2473 Taxi Drivers – Apply at Gems Taxi – Call:667-9013
One live in maid for Georgetown preferable from country side – Contact:699Repairs, sales & spares air 5359 conditioning, microwaves, washer, fridges & stoves. Cook & female bouncers. Ultra Cool, call: 225-9032, 647- Apply in person @ El Club Latino, during 4:00pm-6:00pm 2943 (Tues – Sat) @ 57 Hadfield & Streets, South COOL TECH: Repairs Lime Cummingsburg Services & Installation of all types of home appliances: Air Condition & Refrigeration Salesgirls & Porters. Apply units - Tel: 233-2008; 675- with written application at Lot E Dennis & Middleton Street, 4959 Best Buy Food Supplies. Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional CHAINSAW LUMBER: Shibadan, Immigration Consultant Kabukalli, Room D5 Maraj Building Silverballi, Simarupa, etc – Tel:653-9752 Call Sabita: 225-6496, 662-6045 Live in , live out babysitter Guyana Passport & Visa Tel: 225-6070 Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: Live in waitress- Call:6439007/ 697-2978 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs to Fridge, Freezer, AC, Do you need excavator Washers, Stoves: Call 683- operator 12 years experienced in mining , I’m Available 1312,627-3206 (Nick) Call:Tel:696-2510; 254-1874 We refill HP cartridges for Experienced driver & $1800 call: 650-7699 dispatcher @ Princess Hotel Technicians available for Tel: 265-7075; 265-7076; 616appliance repairs – washers, 5419 dryers, microwaves, stoves, deep fryers, etc – Tel:619- One experienced welder to work in interior – Call:6810793; 218-0050 6044 Design Team Neher, The most dependable, One driver for supermarket on professional, trustworthy the East Coast, Valid License landscapers in Guyana – Tel: & reference need - Call: 6421141 648-1821 or 2190468 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, Urgently needed live in washer, dryer call:231- waitresses to work in Bar. Offering reasonable salary. 0655,683-8734 Omar Tel: 259-0574 B R I D G E WAT E R CONSTRUCTIONS – CO: 1 general domestic to cook, NEW HOMES experienced cashier, counter REMODELING, NEW servers, pastry makers, BATHROOMS, TILE & handy-boys Apply @ Hacks M A R B L E Halaal, 5 Commerce St. INSTALLATION, FREE ESTIMATES – CALL: Live in assistant caregiver – 6 6 0 - 6 9 3 5 ; 6 7 6 - 9 6 6 0 ; Tel:664-8150 269-0944 One experienced excavator TOURS operator with minimum of 5yrs experienced. Apply: Lot 10 Lethem Rodeo - Tour to Barima Avenue Bel-Air Park Bontin Moco-Moco Falls 17 t h t o 2 1 A p r i l - Attractive female waitress, Call:639-2663;644-0185; dancers and cooks to work in 665-5171;227-8290 bar – Call: 610-8269 WANTED Attractive Live in waitress – We buy land in Parafaite Tel:228-5129; 604-8277 Harmonie – Call:675-7292
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Opposition resolute on ‘drastically amending’ $220B Budget - Allocations for GuySuCo, Specialty Hospital and Amaila Hydro Project will not be approved - Greenidge By: Kiana Wilburg The political opposition was grossly disappointed yesterday when the $220B budget was presented by Minister of Finance Dr. Ashni Singh in the National Assembly. As such, they have already stated that the budget will be significantly modified. The 2014 budget which turned out to be the largest budget to be laid in the Parliament by Dr. Singh was deemed the worse when compared to last year’s. This was according to A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) Shadow Minister of Finance, Carl Greenidge. Greenidge said that his comment was grounded in the fact that this year’s budget, among other critical deficiencies, provided no solid plan for the improvement of the poor and homeless. “The plan for the poor is nothing but a joke.” He then stressed that the coalition will not approve the budget as presented and that it will be “drastically amended.”
The Members of the Alliance For Change (AFC) absented themselves from the presentation. The AFC made clear by way of a notification yesterday that it would not be present at the reading of the 2014 budget since it was not a part of the consultations. The missive explained that the action was a representation of its protest against the violation of the Constitution by the government in not holding meaningful consultations with the opposition considering that it had the time to do so. Leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan said that he was privy to a large portion of the budget. He said that his party will not approve certain parts of the budget. Rather, it will join with the members of the APNU to amend certain parts of the budget. “I believe that (the budget) does not have any plan for the improvement of the lives of the poor and it could have been better had the opposition been consulted. The budget will pose a lot of challenges and it will see the non-approval of very many line items.” APNU Leader, Brig. David Granger also shot down the budget. He described it as one that does not aim at development but is rather one geared towards repair and
maintenance. “It does not substantially affect the lives of the poor people. It does not indicate that it will improve jobs for the poor people and I don’t think the measures there could relieve poverty… I feel the budget is divorced from reality.” Commenting on the Old Age pension, Granger said that his coalition was hoping for $15,000 per month. “That was our target. But what might sound ok for Georgetown may not be good for people in the hinterlands who have to come down to collect their pensions.” The APNU Leader said that when one considers the distance some residents of the Hinterland Region have to travel and the cost of living, it is a different reality; the five percent increase is not going to change their lives. Jaipaul Sharma, one of the financial experts of the APNU said that it is the most unrealistic budget he has ever heard. “The budget is $220.047B. The total revenue estimated to be collected is $207.272 B which will give u a short fall of $12.775B. The revenue in my estimation is unrealistic and the evidence is right there in the estimates… when you compare what was estimated in the 2013 budget from what was actually collected, the shortfall was very great. “I feel the budget has too large a deficit. It’s a budget to impress the people with a set of goodies and a lot of plans but it cannot deliver.” Greenidge said that for all this enormous growth, which seemed to have occurred when Dr. Singh came into office in 2006, he still failed to address issues such as infant mortality, migration, unemployment and suicide in
Carl Greenidge, APNU’s Shadow Minister of Finance Guyana. While Greenidge made it pellucid that any allocation made for the Amaila Falls Hydro Project will not see the opposition’s approval, he did elaborate on his concerns for other areas of the budget which will be amended. $910M ALLOCATED FOR SPECIALTY HOSPITAL “As far as I am concerned that has absolutely nowhere to go and I am not the only one who shares that view. I wish to emphasize to the public that this whole issue of the Hospital is a con. It is what is commonly known as a confidence trick. The
government and its spokesmen and even some of our own have made it seem as though it will be filling a niche in the health care supply system. “The hospital is meant to be a private hospital and the infrastructure is meant to be funded by the Indian government by way of a line of credit. It shouldn’t be having money from the government of Guyana. It is not geared to provide services to us and even a more grave concern is that it is not geared to use Guyanese skills by way of the doctors.” $6B ALLOCATED FOR GUYSUCO The politician added that he will not be supporting the $6B allocated for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). And as such that is an area that will be amended. “We have begged the government to set up a Commission to take a better look at the industry and its deficiencies but they have not listened. The Minister has the arrogance today (yesterday) that in proof of their support and commitment to sugar they will ask for $6B. “If they were that supportive of the industry then they would have
Khemraj Ramjattan, Leader of the AFC ensured that the issues affecting the company would have been dealt with instead of coming for subsidies to bail it out.” $6.9B ALLOCATED FOR DRAINAGE AND IRRIGATION The APNU Member said that the government continues to fail to recognize that this area needs regular maintenance and not, “a quick fix during emergencies.” “We are spending significant amounts on drainage and every year we get floods that are worse that the years before. The government then awards projects on a last minute basis and in the end taxpayers are being called upon to foot the bill. Dr. Singh failed to say why this money he is asking for will make a difference in the improvement of the situation. He should also say where the Surendra pumps are. We are not going to approve this.”
Gold remains king, sugar earnings... From page 3 with almost 395,000 tonnes exported to Venezuela, Jamaica and other markets. Livestock grew by 4.3% while fisheries declined by 6.5% due to overfishing, which last year saw several licences for trawlers being suspented. Forestry grew by five per cent with total production of 398,964 cubic meters. So did mining and quarrying. With gold production almost a
tenth more than 2012, diamond declarations which had taken back seat in recent years, jumped by 57%. Last year, the country's export earnings, amidst a drop in gold prices, fell by three percent to US$1.4B. Bauxite exports did badly, contracting to US$134M due to a 24.7% decline in export volume to 1,678,971 tonnes. Meanwhile, timber exports earnings dropped by a little over one percent to US$38.5M. Guyana last year also saw lower merchandise imports which fell 7.5% to US$1.8B. Families also were sending less money from overseas with remittances suffering a US$141M reduction to US$328M recorded. In the areas of foreign direct investments (FDI), there was a reduction from US$293M to US$214M. In the areas of domestic credit, there was major lending to both the private and public sector, increasing by 25% to $123B. As a matter of fact, the Minister said, credit to private
sector expanded by 14% for the manufacturing, construction and engineering sectors, while personal and real estate sectors grew by 22%, 18.8%, 17.4% and 16.9% respectively. In addition, credit to mining and quarrying grew 14%, followed by agriculture and rice at 13.7% and 9.9%. Last year also, Guyana's five-year deal with Norway for payments to protect the local forests saw US$135M of the US$250M promised being approved for Guyana. Regarding tax collections, the country saw $51.7B collected, a 6.3% improvement over the previous year. Personal income tax dropped by $955M reflecting a reduction in personal income tax rate from 33 1/3% to 30%. In total the much touted Value Added Tax (VAT) saw $34.4B being collected, an 8% increase over 2012. Guyana's external debt is at US$1.2B, some 8.3% less than 2012 as a result of the debts owed to Venezuela on the oil-for-rice Petro-Caribe deal being cancelled out.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Obama seeks allied, China support as Ukraine exits Crimea
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte meets with U.S. President Barack Obama (Reuters) - U.S. President Barack Obama sought support from European allies and China yesterday to isolate Russia over its seizure of Crimea, and Ukraine told its remaining troops to leave the region after Russian forces overran one of Kiev’s last bases there. Obama, who has imposed tougher sanctions on Moscow than European leaders over its takeover of the Black Sea peninsula, will seek backing for his firm line at a meeting with other leaders of the G7 - a group of industrialized nations that excludes Russia, which joined in 1998 to form the G8. Since the emergency one-hour G7 meeting on the sidelines of a nuclear security summit in The Hague was announced last week, President Vladimir Putin has signed laws completing Russia’s annexation of the region. White House officials accompanying Obama expressed concern yesterday at what they said was a Russian troop buildup near Ukraine and warned that any further military intervention would trigger wider sanctions than the measures taken so far. In what has become the biggest East-West confrontation since the Cold War, the United States and the European Union have imposed visa bans and asset freezes on some of Putin’s closest political and business allies. But they have held back so far from measures designed to hit Russia’s wider economy. “Europe and America are united in our support of the Ukrainian government and the Ukrainian people,” Obama said after a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte. “We’re united in imposing a cost on Russia for its actions so far. Prime Minister Rutte rightly pointed out yesterday the growing sanctions would bring significant consequences to the Russian economy.” He also discussed the crisis at a private meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose government has voiced support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity but refrained from criticizing Russia. The West wants Beijing’s diplomatic support in an effort to restrain Putin. Moscow formally annexed Crimea on March 21, five days after newly-installed proMoscow regional leaders held a referendum that yielded an overwhelming vote to join Russia. Kiev and the West denounced the annexation as illegal. FURTHER COSTS Western officials are now focused less on persuading Putin to relinquish Crimea - a goal that seems beyond reach - than on deterring him from seizing other parts of Ukraine. “Our interest is not in seeing the situation
escalate and devolve into hot conflict,” White House national security adviser Susan Rice told reporters. “Our interest is in a diplomatic resolution, de-escalation, and obviously economic support for Ukraine, and to the extent that it continues to be necessary, further costs imposed on Russia for its actions.” In The Hague, leaders of the G7 - the United States, Japan, Canada, Germany, France, Britain and Italy - will discuss how to exert further pressure, and at what potential cost. “The main idea for the G7 meeting is to show the isolation of Putin. We won’t be adopting any sanctions but there might be discussion on what could be the next step,” a G7 official said. He said they were also expected to cancel plans for a G8 meeting at the Russian Olympics site in Sochi, for which preparations were put on hold after Moscow seized Crimea. Persuading Europeans to sign on to tougher sanctions could be difficult for Obama. The EU does 10 times as much trade with Russia as the United States, and is the biggest customer for Russian oil and gas. The EU’s 28 members include countries with widely varying relationships to Moscow. Central and east European states, which once lived under Soviet domination and joined the EU in the last decade, are mostly urging caution out of fear for their own economies. But German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the EU’s most powerful leader, has taken a tough line with Putin and supported EU moves to reduce the bloc’s long-term dependence on Russian energy. LITTLE RESISTANCE So far, the seizure of Crimea has been largely bloodless, apart from one Ukrainian soldier and one pro-Moscow militia member killed in a shootout on Tuesday last week. Ukraine’s troops left behind in Crimea have been besieged inside bases while offering little resistance. Russian troops forced their way into a Ukrainian marine base in the port of Feodosia early on Monday, overrunning one of the last remaining symbols of resistance. “Yesterday we had an agreement: we would lower our flag and the Russians would raise theirs. And this morning the Russians attacked, firing live ammunition. We had no weapons. We did not fire a round,” said one marine, Ruslan, who was with his wife Katya and 9-month-old son. Troops hugged each other in farewell. Some chanted “Hurra! Hurra!” in defiance. One marine in full uniform who declined to identify himself wept and blamed the government in Kiev for the chaotic end to the standoff.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Contractor General sounds corruption warning to Caribbean governments (Jamaica Observer) GEORGE TOWN, Grand Cayman — Contractor General Dirk Harrison is warning governments of the Caribbean, and in particular Jamaica, that failure to effectively squeeze corruption will lead to their ultimate demise. Speaking at a lunch plenary entitled, ‘A Corruption-free Government for Jamaica: A How-toManual from the Contractor General’s Office, with Implications for the Region’, organised and hosted by the University College of the Cayman Islands in this British territory last Friday, Harrison said that levels of corruption in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean had reached frightening proportions and the possibility existed that countries could experience a bursting at the seams, if they do not act decisively against it. “The growing tolerance of corruption in our society is such that I think it is at the seams about to burst. I think now is the time that we need to come together as stakeholders. We rather should not think how we will address the problem; let’s just do it now (starting the process) and when we get there we deal with the problem,” he told a packed auditorium. The three-day-long series of activities put on by one of the foremost tertiary institutions in the Cayman Islands, saw over 120 participants diving into various segments of corruption, built around the conference theme of ‘Towards a Corruption-Free Caribbean: Ethics, Values, Trust and Morality’. Harrison was among a number of Jamaican presenters at the event, and there was high anticipation that the ingredients of his presentation would include anti-corruption strategies for which his name has become synonymous. He likened global uprisings in various countries around the world as something that should not be ruled out for the Caribbean region, particular if state corruption continued to accelerate. “When we look at what is happening across the world, in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, that may happen to us one day,” he said, citing uprisings in the Ukraine, Venezuela, Brazil, Egypt, Thailand, among others, against what he said was a stand against government policies, governance, and corruption.
Contractor General Dirk Harrison
“Until we take it seriously, we are going to realise that something is going to happen to us overnight and it will be frightening. “I believe, and predict, that we are at a turning point and I think that we need to act very quickly,” said Harrison, a former senior deputy director of public prosecutions, who took over from outspoken lawyer Greg Christie as contractor general in March 2013. Harrison, who represented Jamaica College in schoolboy cricket as an opening batsman on a team that included former Jamaica and West Indies captain James “Jimmy” Adams, and Senator Norman Grant, also used the example of an occurrence in West Indies cricket to reinforce a point of corruption inadequacies. But his plan, too, targeted at Jamaican schools, also gained nods from members of the audience. He put forward an education plan for Jamaican schools, which he believes will go a far way in preparing young people to deal with the scourge of corruption when it pops up on their doorsteps. “When we seek to effect change, we must educate the people on acceptable norms and introduce legislation to counter and prosecute corruption. It is a necessary action. I have thought through meeting with Professor [Trevor] Munroe (of the National Integrity Action and the University of the West Indies) and other stakeholders in Jamaica to have a meeting in terms of having a child from every school in Jamaica meeting on a day or two for a national anti-corruption conference — one child from every high school, and one child from each primary school — and we sit and talk about corruption and values.
“I don’t think it has ever been done before. I think we should get the necessary funding for it and do it now, because I think it is absolutely necessary,” Harrison said. Citing the need for what he called a “moral compass”, Harrison argued that although nepotism is not a criminal act, and there is no criminal penalty for glaring conflicts of interest, people ought to look themselves in the mirror and draw the moral conclusion that certain things are simply not right. “Importantly, we need to activate the moral compass, which obviously does not exist, and oftentimes it seems that persons do not have the moral authority to rule, but to suggest that to them would be thought to be offensive and abrasive. However, it is the fact. “Nepotism and conflict of interest are not crimes, but they are inherently wrong. “About a week ago, I sat with some ministers of government and I heard the comment being made that nepotism is not a crime, and I think it comes after the recent report of the contractor general, where a minister of government was accused of nepotistic acts. “But I think this is part of the moral compass that we speak about — because it is not perceived as actually a crime — they believe that they can do it, nobody can say anything to them about it and they can go by and everything is okay. “Apparently, either the compass is not working, it is not in place, or one does not know it actually exists,” Harrison said. In his call too for a new vision, the contractor general said that Jamaica needs to make several adjustments with its legislation and training procedures.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
We must work together... From page 4 continuous failure to address systematic issues of discrimination and harsh treatment, whether by individuals or persons in authority. In cases of human trafficking, the police have been accused by some of the victims of negotiating with their captors for sexual favours in return for allowing them (the captor and the trafficked) to pass through the road blocks set up to monitor persons entering the interior without proper identification. There is a constant battle between the police and citizens when these allegations are made and oftentimes, victims do not receive justice and their voices are silenced by those in authority. In Guyana, incidents of sexual violence are occurring on a daily basis; women, girls, men and boys are all falling victims to this heinous crime. Just recently, the Child Care and Protection Agency reported that they received more than 570 cases of childhood sexual abuse for 2013. Most recently, a 16-yearold girl ingested poison because of continued unwanted sexual advancements by a teacher. When she refused his advances, he targeted her and treated her unfairly at school. On February 23, a 19-year old girl was found raped and mur-
dered in an East Coast village. On February 17, a woman was also found raped and murdered along the Timehri backlands. Most horrifying of all recent reports, was that of the 3-year old child who died as a result of injuries sustained after being anally raped, allegedly by a relative, last year. Of dire concern too are the multitudes of rape victims who continue to suffer in silence because of this culture we have in Guyana of victim blaming. While we have a very comprehensive Sexual Offences Act, it is not being fully implemented, making it even more difficult for justice to be served to survivors. In incidents where the crime is reported, few ever make it to trial and even fewer offenders are actually prosecuted. This has caused many victims not to report crimes and has resulted in a rape culture, where sexual predators dwell without fear and practice their depravity with impunity. Many organizations in Guyana have taken note of how sexual violence is destroying our society and have resolved to work harder to highlight the issue and work towards securing justice for victims. Organizations such as Red Thread, SASOD and Help and Shelter have been working for years to end the
assault on the human rights and dignity of people. These organizations have been collaborating on these issues, including the Colwyn Harding case, and on Sunday, March 30, 2014 will be hosting a Public Forum on the Use of Sexual Violence in Gross Human Rights Violations. Our intention is to discuss and develop an action plan for collectively addressing these issues. The Forum will be held at the auditorium of Saint Stanislaus College from 14:00hrs to 17:00hrs and is open to the public. We encourage all concerned citizens to come out and participate. Finally, as we commemorate ”International Day for the Right to the Truth Surrounding Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims”, let us remember Colwyn Harding and many other Guyanese who have fallen victim to gross human rights violations in our country. We very much look forward to your readers’ participation at the public forum on Sunday as we work together to end this scourge. Wintress White, Red Thread Danuta Radzik, Help and Shelter Norwell Hinds, Colwyn Harding Support Group Tiffany Barry, Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination
English lessons for Jamaica - British Council project to help local educators, students (Jamaica Observer) The British Council of Jamaica will, in a matter of weeks, roll out an international programme to help local educators better prepare students to speak and use the English Language effectively as it has now been determined that Jamaica is not quite an English-speaking country. In fact, Jamaica is the only so-called English-speaking nation in the world to benefit from the programme and only one of two countries in the Caribbean, the other being Cuba, whose official language is Spanish. The programme, which is dubbed “Teaching teachers to teach English”, will see the British Council of Jamaica partnering with the Ministry of Education to improve English-speaking skills in schools. The programme has already been introduced in more than 100 countries spanning six continents. Project manager at the British Council, Morland Wilson, said the idea to launch the programme in Jamaica came about as a result of a discussion between Jamaica’s Education Minister Ronald Thwaites and regional director for the council, Christopher Wade, at which time the minister expressed concerns about challenges with teaching English in local schools. Consequently, three language consultants were brought to the island last month to do an assessment of the situation and a report is currently being done to see how to address the existing challenges and to formalise the implementation of the project. “One of the challenges they found was that for English to work effectively and for kids to learn English, they have to be immersed,” said Wilson. “In some schools,
Education Minister Ronald Thwaites everyone speaks to each other in standard English, while in the schools that we have the challenge, the teachers don’t speak in English, they actually speak in the local language, which poses a problem. Generally speaking, when the kids go home, their parents speak to them in Jamaican patois and they communicate 90 per cent of their life in Jamaican patois, so when they are in the school environment, they should have had a sterile environment in terms of learning English or speaking it properly. “The challenge is that they don’t speak it as much in school, so they don’t understand it and the only exposure they have, is during the half-an-hour session they have or the one-hour session that they encounter when it is formally taught,” he said. Wilson asserted that while Jamaica is considered an English-speaking country, the current struggle with the language suggests otherwise. “We really are not an English-speaking country and that came out of the study as well and that is well recognised by the ministry and I think most of the entities operating within the education circles have all agreed that that this is the case,” he noted. The education minister, meanwhile, admitted that he is concerned about the inability of some students to pass English Language in regional examinations such as the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC). Jamaica’s pass rate for the
2013 sitting was 52 per cent. “A number of the grade 11 students do not, in fact, sit the CSEC English, because they are not considered ready and that’s where the problem is,” he told the Jamaica Observer on Sunday. “It is a deficit that is there and it causes a great deal of challenges when people want to go on for tertiary education or for further studies or for employment. Competences in the English Language is not negotiable; we must all have that competency and the schools must be prepared,” he said. The minister said efforts are being made to equip teachers with English skills. The ministry, with the support of the United States Agency for International Development, for example, has dispatched more than 120 literacy coaches in some primary schools to help improve literacy, with the hope that these students will have a better grasp of the language before they move on to secondary schools. “The other issue is that teachers must not be certified as competent to teach in any subject unless they have the requisite standard of English. You can’t teach what you don’t know,” Thwaites said. Meanwhile, two more language specialists from the British Council are expected to visit Jamaica next month to assist with the implementation of the language intervention programme. While the council will be providing course material, it is the education ministry that will decide which schools will benefit.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Dyna’s Ravens are National...
GCA/Noble House Seafoods 2nd division...
severe pressure to convert. Raiders Keon Cameron landed a three-pointer that quieted those rooting for Ravens, but Vincente answered right back from down-town. Kanhai then packed salt in the Raiders’ wound with another three-point jumper before he pierced the lane for a two-handed slam-dunk that turned a first half, competitive contest into an offensive party for Ravens. Vincente continued to drill his way into a possible place on the national team’s shortlist with his shooting; his 16 points included five three-point jumpers. The game was over from the time the Ravens run started, Raiders had given up. In the third place game, Colts defeated Linden’s Amelia’s Ward Jets 71-48, giving Georgetown two places among the top three
Mohamed grabs 4-22 as GYO take first innings from GCC
From page 30 lethal Dyna’s Ravens offence was unleashed against Retrieve Raiders. Fortune entertained with some brutal crossovers that left defenders on the ground, Kanhai And-1 and Vincente baseline three-point jumper combined for an 18-3 run for Ravens inside the closing minutes of the third quarter for a 50-35 lead for Ravens at the end. The run continued in the final period of regulation before Showtime began, effectively signalling a blowout for Raiders. Kanhai put patrons in the venue on their feet when he leaped off a dribble on the baseline for a tomahawk dunk that had fans exulting. The move put Ravens up 57-42 as Roberts’ energy faded against a crowded defence that put him under
clubs in Guyana. Guard’s Shelroy Thomas scored 20 points and had six steals while Nikkoloi Smith had 15 points and Dave Causway 11 points for Colts. Alistair Webster scored 10 points and grabbed 14 boards for Jets, while Joel Webster also had 10 points. Shane Webster finished with eight points and was again in double figures on the boards with 11 rebounds. Before the official programme, Media United played the Diplomatic Corps in the first game with Diplomats winning 78-59. Sherwin Young scored 19 points, Marvin Durant and Devon Cameron had 16 and 14 points, while Oswald Critchlow finished with nine points. Yannick December had 29 points for Media while Yannick Charles had 13 points.
Tuesday March 25, 2014 ARIES (MAR. 21-APRIL 20) You may be overreacting to personal problems. Don’t expect anything for nothing and you won’t be disappointed. Get busy on projects that improve your own image; you’ll have the discipline to succeed. TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21) Your mate may be distressed if you refuse to make a commitment. Keep busy and let them fume while you’re not around. You can get phenomenal returns if you present your ideas to those who can back your interests. GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) You will find that social activities will lead you into passionate meetings. Believe in yourself and so will those who count. CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) Don’t make promises you can’t keep. Don’t trust a deal that looks too good, or a lover who appears to have it all. Socializing or travel will lead to partnerships. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) A need to express yourself may come out in creative ways. You may have to explain your actions to your family. Do not overspend on entertainment. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) Take the time to close deals that have been up in the air. You may find yourself changing crowds. You may find it impossible to get the rest you require.
LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) In harmonious situations at home may be extremely upsetting for you today. Opportunities will come through long term investments. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) Lowered vitality could affect your work. Do things for them but don’t allow them to make unreasonable requests. Don’t press your luck with your loved ones. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Only bite off what you can chew. Things may not be as they sound. You can have a great time if you go out with the one you love. CAPRICORN (DEC 22. JAN. 20) Your creative ability will surface, giving you good ideas for ways of making money. Entertain those who can provide you with valuable information and knowledge. You have a lot to offer. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) Start sending out those resumes. Try not to allow your partner to lead you astray or upset your routine. Pleasure trips will ease the tension between you and your mate. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) You may want to clear the air where older relatives are concerned. You can get the attention of important individuals but it might not be the time to get them to help or to back your ideas.
An inspiring spell of medium fast bowling from Wazeer Mohamed handed Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) first innings points over Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) when the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Noble House Seafoods second division 2-day tournament resumed Saturday at GYO. Mohamed grabbed 4-22 as GCC were skittled for 105 in 29 overs in reply GYO 160 all out in 47.1 overs. Pacer Garfield De Roche supported Mohamed with 2-15 and Trevon France 2-18. The home team were eight without loss when time was called with an overall lead of 63. Most of the visitors batsmen were guilty of giving
Score’s Even returns with... From page 33 for Three year old Guyana bred horses saw Royal Cash with Prem Chandra in the stirrups cashing in with the $250,000 top prize and trophy ahead of Little, Nobre Import and Sunny Silence. Mary Ann of the Goberdhan stable with Paul Delph riding, ran away with the ‘I’ and lower 6Furlong race and the $250,000 pocket and trophy from Party Time and Famous Pride. Iron Man owned and trained by champion trainer Dennis De Roop of the Simple Royal Stable proved too strong for its opponents in the two J class events by winning both. Ridden by Ajai, it first whipped the field in the J3 event over 5Furlong to take the $150,000 top money and trophy before returning for a close win in the J1 event over Pixie Fire, Party Time, and Famous Praise. That win was worth $200,000 and trophy. The top jockey was Ajai Sansarran with Colin Ross the runner up. The Simple Royal Stable for its three wins was adjudged the top stable with owner and trainer Dennis DeRoop the top trainer. They received trophies and other accolades compliments of Trophy Stall, Bourda Market and the organizers. Iron Man for its two wins came up alongside Score’s Even, both of the Dennis De Roop stable, as the top horses on show. Over 75 horses had entered in the day’s event which had over $6M at stake. The KMTC brought off an incident free day of racing. The police once again came in for high praise from the organizers.
their wickets away with injudicious shots; Tarik Dharanlall top scored with 24 not out (5x4), while Bernard Bailey 15, Khemraj Jaikarran 13 and Manny Forde 13 were the others that managed double figures. Derek Koulan and Mohamed laid the foundation for a challenging GYO total with an opening stand of 52 before Mohamed was run out for 15. His departure triggered
a collapse as wickets fell at regular intervals until Shivraj Parmanand and skipper Carlos Reid stemmed the procession somewhat with a ninth wicket partnership of 45. Parmanand departed for a valuable 35 (6x4,1x6) while Reid scored 21 (4x4). Koulan was their leading batsman with 42 (8x4) while Dharanlall snared 3-22, Samuel McKenzie 3-34 and Bailey 224. (Zaheer Mohamed)
Little DIVA Flames win return match The Little DIVA Flames Female FC avenged their loss when they defeated Monedderlust Female Football Club by 2 goals to nil recently at the GFC Gd. In the 1st game played at the #5 Ground, West Berbice in February, they lost by 5 goals to nil. Scoring for the DIVA’s was Nat U17 player Althea Holligan in the 19th and 39th minute. Playing with 8 players, the Berbicians put up a good fight but they were outnumbered and out muscled by the Georgetown based girls. A third game is in the making very soon. Meanwhile, the DIVAS
have stepped up their training as they prepare to travel to Lethem, Rupununi during the Easter Period to participate in a tournament in the Brazil border town. Training will continue on Saturday and Thursday at the GFC Gd. The club has planned some fund raising activities to raise much needed funds to offset their travelling expenses to Region 9. The club is asking that persons willing to make a donation toward their efforts can feel free to make contact with any player or executive. Tel # 621 6986 or 691 3899 can be called to pledge assistance.
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World Twenty20 2014: Dale Steyn leads South Africa to victory Dale Steyn is elated after dismissing Kane Williamson. (AFP)
BBC Sport - Dale Steyn bowled South Africa to a thrilling victory over New Zealand in the World Twenty20 in Bangladesh. New Zealand needed seven off the final over but Steyn took two wickets and ran out Ross Taylor (62) off the last ball to secure a two-run win for his side. JP Duminy had hit 86 not out from 43 balls as South Africa put on 70 off the last five overs to finish on 170-6. The win was South Africa’s first of the tournament and leaves England bottom of Group One with the Netherlands. Former skipper Taylor, who hit three sixes in a row and brought up his fifty from 26 balls, looked like steering New Zealand to victory but, crucially, was not on strike at the start of the final over. Steyn dismissed Luke Ronchi with the first ball and Nathan McCullum with the penultimate one to leave Taylor needing three off the final delivery. The former skipper clipped the ball back to Steyn and the fast bowler, who finished with figures of 4-17, ran
out the Kiwi to wrap up victory. New Zealand were in control on 57-0 after seven overs but South Africa struck back with Albie Morkel dismissing Martin Guptill (22) with his first delivery and leg-spinner Imran Tahir having captain Brendon McCullum stumped off a wide in the next over for four. The enterprising Taylor struck Morne Morkel for three successive sixes and a fifty partnership with Kane Williamson came up in 27 balls. But Steyn, with the help of a superb diving catch from AB de Villiers, saw off Williamson for 51 and Corey Anderson for seven, while Tahir struck again as the Proteas hit back. The fact they had such a big total was down to Duminy, who came to the crease in the seventh over with his side on 42-3, after De Villiers lost his balance trying to make room for an extravagant hit and was bowled for five. The 29-year-old left-hander, who hit his side’s first six in the 12th over, put on a stand of 55 with Hashim Amla before Amla was out for 41 in an unusual manner. Amla smashed an Anderson delivery straight at Duminy, who deflected the ball high into the air off the handle of his bat, and the bowler took the simplest of catches. With his side on 100-4 after 15 overs, Duminy accelerated with some inventive shots, including one overhead flick for four and a straight drive that had umpire Aleem Dar ducking for safety. He hit 22 in boundaries in the final two overs to give South Africa a highly competitive score that just proved enough, and won him the man-of-the-match award. They return to action on Thursday when they face the Netherlands while England, who lost to New Zealand on Saturday, take on group leaders Sri Lanka on the same day. Scores: South Africa 170 for 6 (Duminy 86*, Amla 41, Anderson 2-28, Southee 2-46) beat New Zealand 168 for 8 (Taylor 62, Williamson 51, Steyn 4-17) by 2 runs.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Corriverton CC through to final of Price is Right Upper Corentyne 2nd Division cricket The Corriverton Cricket Club has made it through to the final of the Price is Right Supermarket Second Division Cricket Competition when they defeated No.71 Cricket Club by 124 runs in their semifinal game which was played Sunday March 16, 2014 at the No. 69 Red Rose ground. They will now take Number 70 M.Y.O in the final which is slated for Sunday 6 th April 2014 at the Skeldon Community Centre ground. The game, which was reduced to 45 overs per side due to overnight rain, saw Corriverton CC taking first strike and racing to 250 for 8 in their allotment of overs with No9 batsman Amzaan Appalsamy blasting and undefeated
97 not out which included nine towering sixes and four scorching fours. He was supported by Clavern Beresford 39 and Anthony Seeraj 25. Bowling for No. 71, Glen Jaggernauth and Kampta Roopraj led the way with 3 wickets each. In reply No. 71 were bowled out for 126 with Soomdat Singh top scoring with 68 (4x4, 4x6) while Deoprakash Ramdat contributed 19. Bowling for Corriverton, Faoud Bacchus with figures of 6 for 22 off 9 overs and Eric Phillips with 3 for 20 were the destroyers. Amzaan Appalsamy with his blistering 97 was later named man of the match. (Samuel Whyte)
Deos grab Sanjay’s Jewellery individual gross score went Golf Tournament to Mohan Dinanauth with 77, Chatterpaul Deo and his daughter Joanne Deo took top honours in the Sanjay’s Jewellery Golf Tournament on Saturday at the Lusignan Golf Club. The format was a pairs event where the combined gross score is subtracted by the three quarters handicaps
of the players. This attracted a good turnout of some 44 players. The Deos won with a net score of 144, while the team of Haresh Tiwari and Ravi Persaud were second with 145 and the Cummings Brothers of Andre and Roy took third spot with 146. The best
and nearest to the pin went to Alfred Mentore. In remarks at the presentation ceremony, Vice President Dave Mohamed thanked the sponsor, Sanjay Persaud, for his support of the club which has been ongoing for several years.
GFA Division Two league...
Western Tigers roar to 4-1 victory over Houston Stars
Dyna’s Ravens are National Basketball Champion By Edison Jefford Dyna’s Ravens Basketball Club scored an unbelievable 62 points in the last two quarters Sunday night with Akeem Kanhai feral on an offensive run that included three massive dunks that helped his club seize the inevitable National Division I Title. The 85-57 win for Georgetown’s Ravens against Linden’s Retrieve Raiders will for another year earn Ravens the right to be labelled the best club in Guyana. At least, Ravens ensured the packed Cliff Anderson Sports Hall was left with that patent impression. Even before the National Final started; before local songstress Candace Fields wowed the packed venue with her soulful rendition of the National Anthem, Ravens had their swag in-tact with their blinding, high coloured and trendy sneakers during the warm-ups.
It was no surprise that the emphatic victory, which was delayed for some time, meant so much to them. Kanhai dropped 20 points, grabbed eight rebounds and had four block shots while Rodwell Fortune scored 18 points; Jermaine Slater had a doubledouble with 17 points and 16 rebounds as Dominic Vincente, who was adjudged MVP of the Finals for his crunch-time shooting, scored 16 points for Ravens. Raiders’ former national pair, Neil Marks and Dwayne ‘Sugar’ Roberts, scored 14 points apiece with Marks grabbing 15 and Roberts 14 rebounds. Dwight McKinnon scored 12 points while the other offensive threat, Louis James was held under double figures. The massive atmosphere in what was one of the biggest turnouts for the sport in recent years was a deterrent for a hot offensive start for both teams. The early jitters
were obvious in a low scoring first half that Raiders actually controlled in a defensive contest. Marks hit back-to-back jumpers that allowed Raiders an 11-8 lead early in the first quarter which ended 13-9 in favour of the Linden side. As Ravens struggled to get their offensive combinations right in the first half, Roberts and Marks were controlling the ‘boards’. It allowed Raiders tons of second chances as when Roberts drilled a fade-away jumper off of one leg for a 2416 lead heading into halftime; the teams battled for minutes without much scoring as Raiders went into the break leading 26-23, ending the first half of the game. The two teams continued to tough it out before Ravens’ Ryan Stephney landed freethrows to put the game on par, levelled 32-32, with four minutes to play in the third quarter. In three minutes, a (Continued on page 29)
The Western Tigers marksmen (from left) Joshua Britton, Darren Benjamin, Wayne Wilson and Randolph Wagner, revel in the moment after the final whistle sounded. Western Tigers clawed back from a 1 nil deficit to inflict a 4-1 beating on Houston Stars in the lone encounter of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Division Two league match at the Guyana Defence Force, Camp Ayangana ground, Sunday afternoon last. The game commenced at a frenetic pace with the energetic Houston Stars team formulating clever passes. Their goal came as no surprise as their front man, Eon Hunter struck in the 9th minute to send his team ahead. The Tigers responded shortly afterwards when Joshua Britton was fouled in the box and duly converted from the penalty spot. Houston Stars should have reasserted itself to the ascendency after being awarded a penalty but Joe
Garrett botched the chance with a poorly timed kick which the Western Tigers custodian effortlessly scooped up. Shortly afterwards, the players went in for the intermission. When the battle resumed, both teams attacked with venom but an especially clever bit of ball weaving by Darren Benjamin, who sped down the centre of the field and pasted the Houston Stars custodian with a fierce right foot shot that sped past his outstretched hands and settled in the network. A determined Houston Stars responded almost immediately when Clairmonte Welch launched an enterprising solo run but botched the chance with a tame strike into the hands of the Western Tigers custodian. Fate was on the Houston Stars side and they
were offered yet another opportunity to equalize the situation when the Western Tigers goalie handled the ball outside the box. He made some reparations after averting a goal from the ensuing indirect free kick. It was around that time that the ‘Tigers’ awoke from their lethargy with Wayne Wilson sprinting down the centre to net his team’s third goal thus pushing victory a bit further from the East Bank team. They were still recovering from that strike when Randolph Wagner added salt to the wound with a humdinger that sped past the outstretched hands of their custodian. The Western Tigers team appeared to be fired up and ready to inflict grievous bodily harm but the final whistle saved their opponents from further misery.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 31
Brazil’s SoaRaimundo FC for World Twenty20 2014: Dutch post April showdown in Guyana record low score in Sri Lanka loss
Brazil’s SoaRaimundo Football Club, who is the current champions of the State of Roraima in the Portuguese-speaking nation, will be coming to Guyana for an April 5 showdown against the Slingerz Football Club at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) Ground. This is according to C&R Promotions, who issued a press release this week, stating that a press conference will be held soon to further update on full details pertaining to the Brazilian club tour to Guyana for the showpiece football game. “With World Cup football being hosted in Brazil this year, the President of the Brazilian Club, Sergio Carvalho has guaranteed the Guyanese football fan base a showing that
will prove why Brazil is considered the best football nation,” the release said. Slingerz, who recently participated in the Vision Group Inter-Club Tournament, will hope to continue its ascendancy with the addition of a few overseas players. The release said the club was chosen for the encounter based on their performance in Georgetown Football Association (GFA)/Banks Beer Cup, which they won on January 1. “With the prize money set to be a hefty pay day for the teams, intense competition is expected during the friendly showing,” the release continued. Meanwhile, Western Tigers Football Club will battle Santos Football Club in a pre-game match-up.
BBC Sport - Sri Lanka dismissed the Netherlands for the lowest score in Twenty20 international history as they cruised to the top of Group One in Chittagong. The sorry Dutch were bundled out for 39 runs in 10.3 overs, 17 fewer runs than the previous worst total. Only Tom Cooper (16) made double figures as Angelo Mathews and Ajantha Mendis took three wickets apiece. Sri Lanka knocked off the runs in five overs for the loss of only one wicket to complete a nine-wicket victory. “It’s an embarrassing feeling,” Netherlands captain Peter Borren told BBC Sport. “We showed a lack of discipline in that top order and exposed the lower order to Mendis and [Lasith] Malinga, which in any team is the end of the story. “Luckily we have got three more games and we will show that we are better than this.” Kenya’s 56 all out against Afghanistan in Sharjah last year was the previous lowest T20 international score, while Ireland’s 68 against the Windies in 2010 was the worst at a World Twenty20. The Dutch total was also the second lowest in any professional Twenty20 match, nine runs better than
7th edition of the FCFC/NAMILCO, One Love Reloaded football tournament
the 30 all out by Indian team Tripura against Jharkhand in October 2009. The Netherlands had reached the Super 10 stage courtesy of a thrilling chase against Ireland on Friday in which they hit 19 sixes in 13.5 overs. But three days later, there were no sixes and only three fours as the Dutch had no answer to Sri Lanka’s highclass bowling attack. Stephan Myburgh had been the Netherlands’ hero against Ireland with 63 off 23 balls, but the opening batsman only lasted three deliveries against Sri Lanka before spooning Nuwan Kulasekara to Lasith Malinga at third man. In the following over, Michael Swart and Wesley Barresi fell to successive balls from Mathews to leave the Dutch in tatters on 1-3. By the end of the six-over powerplay, they had limped to 15-4 and the wickets continued to tumble as Ben Cooper was run out for eight before his brother Tom was trapped lbw by Mendis. Malinga bowled Logan van Beek and Mudassar Bukhari in quick succession before Mendis returned to finish the innings with two wickets in three balls. “I have to apologise to the Irish and the other Associates for a performance like this because we are representing all of them,” added Borren. “Associate cricket has improved but this is the sort
of show where people see it and think it’s no good. “It is a shame but we’ll be back. We have been at this level before and performed well.” The Sri Lankan reply was not without incident as Perera was hit on the thumb by Timm Van der Gugten’s first ball of the innings and required treatment. He recovered to score 14 off 10 balls but perished lobbing Malik Jamil to mid-on. A day of abject misery for the Dutch was encapsulated in a horrible dropped catch by Bukhari to reprieve Mahela Jayawardene, who hit the next ball for four before clipping a single to see Sri Lanka over the line. Tillakaratne Dilshan finished 12 not out, with Jayawardene on 11. “We never underestimate any team, but the guys did really well and we won the game easily,” said Sri Lanka captain Dinesh Chandimal. “We have two more games, so we will keep our fingers crossed we will keep winning.” Sri Lanka, who beat South Africa by five runs in their first Super 10 match, top the group with two wins out of two. They will face England on Thursday at 13:30 GMT after the Netherlands take on South Africa. Scores: Sri Lanka 40 for 1 beat Netherlands 39 (Mathews 3-16, Mendis 312) by 9 wickets.
FIA Track Engineer of the Americas Julian Abed arrived in Guyana yesterday for a one-day inspection tour which will see him meet with local officials of the sport as well as pay a courtesy call on Minister of Culture, Youth & Sport Dr. Frank Anthony. Abed, who is of Mexican origin and brother of FIA VicePresident Jose Abed arrived in Guyana to inspect and advise local racing officials on how they could develop the South Dakota Circuit into a Level 3 facility. His visit is a follow up to one made last year by FIA President Jean Todt where he promised to assist Guyana in its quest to upgrade the current track to accommodate higher levels of competition in compliance with FIA regulations. According to an official
close to the local governing body, the Government of Guyana is extremely excited about the idea of the country having an opportunity to upgrade the present facility and offered its support for the impending project. Obed is also expected to pay a visit to the Circuit sometime today, before meeting with representatives of the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club and club members sometime later in the afternoon for an interactive session where they will be allowed to ask questions. This segment of the visit will be conducted at the club’s Headquarters on Albert Street. Meanwhile, Semco’s Engineering Consultant Raymond Latchmansingh has been retained as a Specialist for the project.
Rhythm Squad/Santos advance FIA Track Engineer following flamboyant opening ceremony arrives in Guyana for one-day visit By Michael Benjamin
Rhythm Squad defeated Santos FC 1-0, compliments of an 80th minute goal by Amos Ramsay while Pele defeated Topp XX 2-0 compliments of successes off the boots Calvin Shepherd (41) and Shemroy Arthur (61) when those teams clashed in the open encounters of the FCFC/NAMILCO, One Love Reloaded football competition at the Tucville Ground Sunday evening last. Activities got off to a start when sixteen teams marched to the roll of drums and eventually saluted a top delegation that included Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds, Presidents of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the Fruta Conquerors Football Club (FCFC), Christopher Matthias and Wayne Forde respectively, Director of Youth and Sports, Neil Kumar, Managing Director of the National
Milling Company, Bert Sukhai, Vice President of the Georgetown Football Association, Lavern Fraser and financial executive (NAMILCO), Automaram Lakeram among others. Mr. Hinds congratulated the organizers for their steadfast commitment and said that the tournament has been improving on a yearly basis. He said that Physical Education is every important to the development of any nation and the tournament would serve to promote this concept among the youths. He also urged the players to demonstrate fair play and discipline. Mr. Sukhai also admitted that the tournament has grown tremendously since its inauguration 6 years ago. He said that it is this factor that has prompted his executives to invest more than five million dollars in cash a n d prizes towards the success of the event.
He lauded the efforts of Mr. Forde in the expansion of the tournament to other regions even as he anticipated future developmental initiatives. “I look forward to a competitive tournament,” concluded Mr. Sukhai. Mr. Kumar said that he was heartened by the number of teams that are involved in the tournament and called on the public to support the venture. He also said that he has confidence in the GFF President and his vision for the sport. Mr. Matthias said that the tournament is a demonstration of love and careful planning, two variables that are welcome in the football fraternity. He said that he has recently attended the FIFA congress in Zurich and the message is that football must be more structured and disciplined. He called on all of the participants to demonstrate this vision even as they aspire to win.
Meanwhile, shortly after the opening ceremony concluded Prime Minister Hinds performed the ritualistic kick that signaled the start of the tournament where the four aforementioned teams were engaged in stiff rivalry. In total, sixteen teams will throw down the gauntlet for a top prize of $1.2M, while the second place finisher receives $600,000. The 3rd and 4th place finishers will take home $400,000 and $200,000 respectively. The four top teams will also receive trophies while there will be other prizes for the Most Valuable Player, Best Goalkeeper and most prolific goal scorer among others. The other participating teams are Buxton United, Alpha United, Alpha United, Fruta Conquerors, Monedderlust, Netrockers, BV Triumph, Guyana Defense Force, Slingerz, Camptown and New Amsterdam United.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Four in a row for CCC as Guyana crushed by 7Wkts By Sean Devers in Barbados In association with Star Party Rentals & Payless Varity Store A diabolical batting performance sunk Guyana to a crushing seven-wicket loss last night against the Combined Colleges and Campuses (CCC) at the 3Ws Oval on the final day of their fourth round four-day cricket match to give the host their fourth consecutive win at this venue. Guyana lost their last five wickets for 23 runs in 43 minutes after Lunch in another pathetic display of
senseless batting to catapult to 173 all out and their third loss in the seven-team competition. Off-spinner Ryan Austin (4-22) took nine wickets in the match and got support from Akeem Dewar (4-61) to deny the Guyanese their second win in as many years against the Students. CCC set 46 to win, lost first innings centurion Shacaya Thomas (2), Kyle Corbin (0) and Raymon Reifer (11) slipping to 38-3, before reaching 51-3. Anthony Alleyne (18) and Chadwick Walton, who scored a ton in the first innings and finished the match in empathic fashion, were there at the finish as the home team wrapped up the game with over a session to spare. Scores: Guy (263 & 173), CCC (391 & 51-3) Guyana resumed at 82-1 in sweltering heat and lost
Skipper Leon Johnson after he had added just one to his overnight 35 when he was well caught at leg-slip off Dewar as Guyana lost their first wicket 11 minutes into the final day at 84-2. Deonarine came and went in the blink of an eye for another first ball duck. The left hander hung his bat at the ball with no real movement of the feet and was caught behind off Keswick Williams one run later as his disastrous season continued with his fifth duck in four matches. There is no doubting Deonarine’s class but his confidence has taken a nosedive in the past couple of months as Test player with nine First-Class tons and one of the best Regional 50-over hundreds you would ever want to see (vs Barbados at Albion in 2009) struggled get over his wretched bad patch.
Bangladesh v West Indies, World T20, Group 2, Mirpur...
Shaken teams search for form ESPNcricinfo - Two teams who aren’t at the top of their game come together in today’s clash. Bangladesh, the hosts, have had a forgettable 2014 so far, with lacklustre showings in the home series against Sri Lanka and the Asia Cup which were capped by a defeat to Hong Kong in the first phase of the World T20. West Indies, the defending champions, have lost seven of their previous ten T20s, including their opening game in the World T20, where they went down meekly to India. After the lukewarm start in the loss against India, talk about West Indies’ ability to take singles again got plenty of airtime ahead of the Bangladesh game. Whether it is through singles and twos or through big hits, West Indies need a victory over Bangladesh, as their remaining games in a tough group are against Australia, who are rated among the tournament favourites, and a formidable Pakistan outfit. Defeat to Bangladesh won’t eliminate West Indies, but it is likely to mean that their chances of making the semi-finals are not in their hands, leaving them needing to win their remaining matches besides hoping other results go their way. Bangladesh, despite their defeat to Hong Kong, have achieved their first goal: of reaching the Super 10s and thus avoiding the ignominy of having to watch a party in their backyard from the sidelines. They are positioning themselves as spoilers in a group of heavyweights, and can be tricky opponents, especially at home if the track suits their array of spinners. IN THE SPOTLIGHT As someone who strikes at around 130 in T20s, Dwayne Smith will want to make amends for his torturous 29-ball 11 against India that robbed West Indies of any momentum at the start of the innings. With Chris Gayle expected to stick to his method of biding his time early on, Smith is entrusted with the task of providing the opening fireworks. Bangladesh’s new-ball bowlers have a challenge on their hands. Chris Gayle had recently jokingly remarked that he had made Sohag Gazi famous by hitting him for six off the first ball of a Test. That was when West Indies last toured Bangladesh in 2012, but even on that tour Gayle didn’t exactly
West Indies will hope Dwayne Smith can provide the thrust at the start of the innings © WICB Media dominate - Gazi dismissed him three times in Tests and ODIs. The rivalry is set to resume on Tuesday, when Gazi is expected to be picked as a replacement for Farhad Reza. West Indies coach Ottis Gibson has said they have to still take a decision on their quick bowling line-up: whether to bring in either the experienced Ravi Rampaul or the pacy Sheldon Cottrell in place of Krishmar Santokie. He wanted to take a close look at the conditions in Mirpur before taking a call. Bangladesh are expected to make several changes to the side that went down to Hong Kong. With Rubel Hossain injured, Ziaur Rahman is likely to get a game while offspinner Sohag Gazi is set to replace the expensive Farhad Reza. They could also bring in Shamsur Rahman for Sabbir Rahman.
The 20-year-old Chanderpaul Hemraj joined the 17-year-old Tagenarine Chanderpaul and the pair of left-handers added 31 for fourth wicket with Tagenarine passing his previous highest score of 42 against Trinidad & Tobago last year at the Queens Park Oval. Chanderpaul’s six back over the head of Dewar was totally against the run of play but when seven short of his maiden First-Class fifty the talented West Indies under19 player was caught at leg slip to give Dewar his second wicket and leave Guyana on 116-4. His innings spanned 239 minutes, 178 balls and was laced with three fours and a six. Shiv Chanderpaul replaced his son and as the two passed each other there was no eye contact between the Chanderpauls. After a patient start the senior Chanderpaul, a veteran of 318 First-Class matches exploded with a commanding straight hit off Dewar for four and followed it up by clobbering the leg-spinner for a huge six next ball when he dragged it down. The six ensured CCC had to bat again. Hemraj, a naturally aggressive batsman, showed spurts of indiscretion and was dropped at slip off Austin on 14 resulting in the 39-year-old Chanderpaul quickly calling Hemraj for midpitch coaching session. However, just after Lunch Hemraj departed for 22 from 111 minutes and 81 balls when he was caught at slip off Austin to leave the visitors on 150-5. Christopher Barnwell, the first right-hander in the order, joined Chanderpaul who batted for just over an hour for his 60-ball 26 before he pushed forward and got an inside edge onto
Tagenarine Chanderpaul cuts during his top score against CCC yesterday.
his pad for the Keeper to complete the catch and leave Guyana on 153-6. Barnwell and Bramble, the two most aggressive batsmen in the Guyana side, with the lead only 25 at that stage, together they carried the score to 169 before Barnwell (11) got one that bounced and turned on him from Dewar and gloved it to Corbin at slip. Devendra Bishoo opted to play no shot to Dewar and was bowled first ball as Guyana collapsed to 169-8 before Ve e r a s a m m y Permaul played an atrocious swipe two balls
later only for Kavem Hodge to floor the sitter off Dewar. Bramble (8) then irresponsibly backed away at a ball too close to cut and edged to the Keeper off Austin. Raun Johnson (0) soon skied a wild slug at Austin and was taken at square-leg as the last five wickets tumbled for 23 runs. CCC are on 28 points while Guyana, who only managed five points from the game and moved to 18 in the tournament, draw the bye in the next round and face the Leewards in Antigua in their next match from April 4-7.
Delroy Murphy for CAC Judo championships
Delroy Murphy made the qualifying standard and will represent Guyana at the Central American and Caribbean judo championships in Mexico, in November this year but his countryman, Hamza Eastman, failed in his bid when they participated in the CAC judo qualifications championship in Barbados, March 15 and 16 last. President of the Guyana Judo Association (GJA) Raoul Archer accompanied the two practitioners and admitted that the level of competition was extremely high. He also said that in all, sixteen countries vied for
Eleven practitioners promoted places in the upcoming CAC games. The Judo Association President said that his organization had benefitted from the chivalry of several organizations and individuals and he is very grateful for their assistance. Among those contributing to the team’s participation are Director of Youth and Sports, Neil Kumar, Sankar Auto Sales and the Guyana Olympic Association. Mr. Archer said that they have received similar help from several other entities and individuals who have asked
not to be mentioned. Meanwhile, in related Judo news, the Kitty Masjid Jamaat Judo Club recently held a grading exercise and several practitioners have qualified for new rankings. Those that have attained the yellow belt ranking are Daniel West, Ilyas Mursalin, Brandon Gammell, Iyaz Mursalin, Sherwin Durant, Mohammad Neisha, Asif Rasheed and Fazil Hack. Those promoted to orange belts are Iyaz Mursalin, Akash Persaud and Abrahim Khan. The lone blue belt is Fazul Hack.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 33
Score’s Even returns with a bang, Iron Man top horse with double win Simple Royal Stable takes top honours By Samuel Whyte Champion horse Score’s Even, Guyana’s only A class animal owned and trained by Dennis DeRoop of the Simple Royal Stable’s stable, rebounded with a vengeance from a shocking loss in its last race in January. The Kentucky bred A1 class animal running with a weight of 126 pounds was back to itself, whipped the field, taking top honours in the feature A class and lower event when the Kennard M e m o r i a l Tu r f C l u b successfully held their annual one day Phagwah horserace meet at the club’s entity, Bush Lot, Corentyne, Berbice on Sunday. The six furlongs race with a top prize of $1M and trophy saw the six animals entered off with an even break. The race was going at a blistering pace early with the animals spread out across the track. Throughout the entire back stretch it was a ding down battle with Country Armagh, Jack Is My Style, Got to Go, Score’s Even, Money In return and California Strike all in the reckoning. Country Armagh, one of three Grays
in the race, took the lead and when Score’s Even came up alongside the animals went neck and neck. H o w e v e r, i n t o t h e homestretch, sprinting at pace, Jockey Randolph Richmond astride Score’s Even, spurred the racehorse on and it galloped away for the convincing win. Got To Go eased past Country Armagh for second with Jack is My Style rounding out the top four. Mulwakee Blitz of the Jagdeo Stable with Trinidadian Patrick in saddle, blitzed the field with a stunning finish for its first win in Guyana as it raced away with the D3 and lower 6Furlong event and the $400,000 and trophy at stake. In a close encounter, the animal won from a fast finishing Some Legend, Red and Lovely and it’s My Turn. Shooting star of the Sheriff stable with Colin Ross shot to the front as it won the $300,000 winner’s money and trophy in the 7 Furlong event for G1 and lower animals in a close call from Bridal Stone Corner, Damascus Dream and Quiet Strom. The 6Furlong event (Continued on page 29)
Mary Ann winning the I class event comfortably.
KMTC president Justice Cecil Kennard (left) presents the $1M and trophy to Mrs Dennis DeRoop of the simple Royal Stable for Score’s Even victory.
Chase Academy supports HRC following courtesy call by Jeff ‘Classic’ Beckham
B
Hugh Ross gratefully accepts a sponsorship package from Rosheda Gilgeous in the presence of Jeff ‘Classic’ Beckham and students of the institution
odybuilding fans are assured of top class performances when the curtains go up on the fourth edition of the Malta Supreme Hugh Ross Classic Bodybuilding and Fitness Show set for Saturday March 29 at the National Cultural Centre when the nation’s top musclemen would be strutting their stuff. Bodybuilders would compete in several categories including the Miss Figure and Miss Bikini categories, and the male categories in the Bantamweight (143lb), Lightweight, (144-154lb), Welterweight (155-165lb), Light Middleweight (166-176lb) and heavyweight (176 and over) divisions. The organizers have gone the extra mile to provide top class entertainment which will climax with a guest pose by International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB) Pro athlete, Jeff ‘Classic’ Beckham who arrived in the country yesterday morning and soon after paid a visit to the Chase Academy Foundation, Parade Street, Kingston, where he delivered an inspirational talk to those students. The renowned bodybuilder said that this is his first time in Guyana and he has felt the hospitality and warmness of the Guyanese people. He also urged the students to
influence their parents and guardians to support the show. Chairman of the Hugh Ross Classic Committee, Hugh Ross, encouraged the students to concentrate on their books even if aspiring for sports excellence. “You are the future and your job is to enhance your educational opportunities which are the threshold of launching you into your dreams,” urged Mr. Ross. He further beseeched the students to remain steadfast towards their dreams and aspirations. “Discipline compounded with obedience are the ingredients to success,” concluded the bodybuilding king. Meanwhile, Principal, of the Chase Academy Foundation, Henry Chase, acknowledged the visit of the bodybuilding icons and urged his students to pay heed to their words of wisdom. He also donated handsomely to the impending championship and one of his students, Rosheda Gilgeous, handed over a package of an undisclosed amount to the organizers who further expressed gratitude to their benefactor. Following the individual poses, the respective category winners will compete among each other where the winner will be crowned Mr. HRC 2014.
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Kaieteur News
Petra Organisation Schools Football Competition...
Defending champs send ominous notice to all aspirants
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Taylor, Dottin inspire WI Women to victory
Part of the action in the Milo/Petra Organisation Schools Football Competition.
D
e f e n d i n g champions St. George’s sent a worrying notice to all aspirants to their throne after inflicting a crushing 112 triumph over Tucville when play in this year’s Milo/Petra Organisation Schools Football Competition continued on Sunday, at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue. The current holders of the title were led to victory through a hat-trick of goals from Quincy Lawrence, who netted in the 16th, 51st and 53rd, Adolph George in the 43rd and 45th, while six
other players contributed solitary strikes. They were Okeri Codrington (19th), Seon Taylor (26th), Ozeal Small (28th), Niante Northe (54th), Jamal Brown (57th) and Joshua Williams (59th). Calvin Peters (65th) and Keifer Brandt (68th) replied for Tucville. In the opening game of the day, Bishop’s High scraped past North Ruimveldt 4-3 on penalty kicks after regulation time failed to separate a 3-3 stalemate. On target for the winners were Nathaniel King (12th), Joel Morrison (34th) and an
Raghubir Inter Service 40-over cricket...
Police arrest City Constabulary Black, Persaud slam 100s, Benn, Browne, Newland hit 50s
P
olice demolished City Constabulary by a mammoth 491 runs when the Balram Raghubir Inter Service 40-over cricket tournament continued on Friday last. Stephan Blacks and Munelall Persaud stroked centuries to lead Police run feast after they decided to bat at Eve Leary. Blacks stroked 110 (13x4), while Persaud slammed 106 (11x4,3x6) as the home team piled up 523-5 off their allotted overs. Trevor Benn weighed in with an attacking
83 not out (10x4,5x6), Rawle Browne scored 68 (4x4,4x6) and Michael Newland 66 (14x4). Mervin Tharmon claimed 2-85. City Constabulary were bowled out for 32 in 9.4 overs in reply. Newland bagged 5-15 off 3.4 overs and Benn 3-11 from 5. At GDF, the host went down to Prison Service by seven wickets. GDF managed 133 all out in 32 overs, while Prison Service replied with 134-3 in 22.5 overs. Ryan Rajmangal smashed an unbeaten 70.
own goal netted by Elroy George in the 64th minute completed their tally. For North Ruimveldt, Tyrese Rowley (19th), Jamal Europe (36th) and Shamar DeSouza (54th) were the players on the scoresheet. In the match that followed, Christ Church created the biggest upset of the day when they beat Chase Academy 4-2 in a penalty shootout after full time saw the teams deadlocked at 2-2. Shemar Barrow continued his good showing for Chase Academy, firing in a brace in the 21st and 48th minutes, while Andre Trotz (32nd) and Kadeem Blackman (45th) responded for Christ Church. L i t t l e k n o w n Queenstown then registered another upset after defeating the highly touted Carmel 3-1. The goalscorers for the winning team were Williams DeSantos, who netted a pair in the 21st and 42nd minutes, while Nicholas McArthur’s 46th minute strike completed their tally. Moses Gritten (44th) made the lone response for Carmel. In the day’s full results: B i s h o p ’s - 3 v s N o r t h Ruimveldt-3 Bishop’s Scorers Nathaniel King-12th Joel Morrison-34th Own goal- Elroy George64th North Ruimveldt Scorers Tyrese Rowley-19th Jamal Europe-36th Shamar DeSouza-54th Bishops won 4-3 on penalty
kicks Chase Academy-2 vs Christ Church-2 Chase Scorer Shemar Barrow-21st and 48th Christ Church Scorers Andre Trotz-32nd Kadeem Blackman-45th Christ Church won 4-2 on penalty kicks Carmel Secondary-1 vs Queenstown Secondary-3 Carmel Scorer Moses Gritten-44th Queenstown Scorers Williams DeSantos-21st and 42nd Nicholas McArthur-46th St. George’s Secondary- 11 vs Tucville Secondary- 2 St Georges Scorers Quincy Lawrence-16th, 51st and 53rd Okeri Codrington-19th Seon Taylor-26th Ozeal Small-28th Adolph George-43rd and 45th Niante Northe-54th Jamal Borwn-57th Joshua Williams 59th Tucville Scorers Calvin Peters-65th Keifer Brant-68th
Deandra Dottin took 4 wickets and the Player of the Match Award. (WICB) SYLHET, Bangladesh (CMC) – West Indies Women made a winning start to their World Twenty20 campaign when they beat England by nine runs in their Group B encounter here yesterday. Defending 133 for seven at the Sylhet Stadium, West Indies restricted England to 124 for nine, with medium pacer Deandra Dottin snatching four for 12 from four outstanding overs. England seemed to be en route to victory at 80 for two in the 12th over until Dottin intervened. She knocked over captain Charlotte Edwards for 44 off 37 balls, in a devastating spell that
Scotia Bank/Pepsi School tournament...
BEI defeat BHS 2-nil
B
erbice Education Institute (BEI) recorded their first victory in the Scotia Bank/Pepsi Football Academy on Saturday against Berbice High School when the Berbice leg of the tournament got underway at the All Saints Ground, New Amsterdam. Scoring for BEI were Glenroy Henry and Dwayne Allen in the 49th and 59th minutes. Allen’s goal came by way of a penalty. Meanwhile, in Georgetown at the Ministry of Education Ground on Sunday, Lodge Secondary and Charlestown Secondary schools played to a nil draw.
saw England lose five wickets for 17 runs in quick time. Requiring 18 from the last over, England got a four from the first ball but then lost two wickets, as any hopes of victory disappeared. Earlier, Stafanie Taylor top-scored with 56 from 45 balls and Kycia Knight, 43 from 42 deliveries, as they got the Windies Women up and running with an opening stand of 87. Seamer Natalie Sciver was England’s best bowler with three for 18. Summary Scores: West Indies Women Innings: 133/7 (20 Overs). Stafanie Taylor 56, Kycia Knight 43, Merissa Aguilleira*+ 11, Deandra Dottin 9; Natalie Sciver 3-018-3, Anya Shrubsole 4-025-2, Rebecca Grundy 4-020-1, Jenny Gunn 3-0-24-1. E n g l a n d Wo m e n Innings: 124/9 (20 Overs). Charlotte Edwards 44, Sara Taylor 17, Lydia Greenway 14, Danielle Hazell 11; Deandra Dottin 4-1-12-4, Shakera Selman 4-0-22-1, Tremayne Smartt 3-0-25-1, Shanel Daley-2-0-28-1. Result: West Indies Women won by 9 runs.
Tuesday March 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 35
Men’s National Hockey team named for Uruguay A
fter four months of training the Men’s National Hockey Team is in its final week of preparations for the 2014 Indoor Pan American Cup, scheduled for Uruguay from the 7th to the 13th of April. The team is scheduled to play several matches against rest sides at the National Gymnasium over the coming week to fine tune their systems and strategies. Guyana will be up against regional power houses Canada, Argentina, USA and Uruguay as they attempt to qualify for the 2015 Indoor World Cup in the week long tournament. Although several fundraisers were undertaken, the team still finds its self short of the required funds to
Members of the National Training Squad before the final team were shortlisted. make the tour possible and will be depending heavily on corporate support to reach its budget target over the next
two weeks. The team is scheduled to depart for Lethem on the 4th of April, then travel by road to Boa
Vi s t a b e f o r e m a k i n g connecting flights to Manaus and Sao Paulo, arriving in Uruguay on the 5th of April.
The team features a balanced blend of experienced nationals such as Devin Munroe, Aderemi
Simon and England based Marvin Dannett, complimented by a young and exciting crop of play makers including Jamarj Assanah, Aroydy Branford, Raphael deGroot and Andrew Stewart. The team is further solidified by the outstanding talents of Anthony Cole in goal. 2014 Indoor Pan American Cup Squad: Devin Munroe, Aderemi Simon, Anthony Cole, Marvin Dannett, Robert France, Raphael DeGroot, Jamarj Assanah, Andrew Stewart, Aroydy Branford, Mark Sargeant, Kevin Spencer, Shane Samuels and Laured Stewart. Manager - Gavin Hope Assistant Manager - Andrew Xaiver Coach - Robert Fernandes
Kraft Junior Skill Level Tournament...
Shomari Wiltshire wins again S
homari Wiltshire defeated Matthew Phang to claim his third title in the Toucan Industries sponsored Kraft Junior Skill Level tournament organised by the Guyana Squash Association (GSA) in collaboration with its dependable corporate sponsor Digicel Guyana. Shomari Wiltshire is only ten years old, but has won his category in the past three editions of this tournament. Each year, Wiltshire has faced and beaten older opponents as he has always been the youngest competitor in his c a t e g o r y. T h i s y e a r ’s tournament was not much d i ff e r e n t , a s S h o m a r i Wiltshire, the youngest player in Category B, finished atop the standings after winning all his m a t c h e s . O n S u n d a y, Shomari Wiltshire defeated Matthew Phang 11-8, 12-10, 11-8. It was Phang’s only loss of the tournament. Phang settled for second place behind Wiltshire just as he did in Category C last year, while 13-year old Alex Cheeks placed third and Daniel Islam took fourth this time around. Benjamin Mekdeci won Category A ahead of Akeila Wiltshire who survived a gruelling five game encounter against Alec Melville for the second place. Akeila Wiltshire
who took second and third respectively. The respective final placings: Category A 1 Benjamin Mekdeci 2 Akeila Wiltshire 3 Alec Melville Category B 1 Shomari Wiltshire 2 Matthew Phang 3 Alex Cheeks 4 Daniel Islam Category C 1 Anthony Islam 2 Michael Ramroop 3 Jael Gaskin 4 Savannah Mendes Category D 1 Brandon Debidin 2 Gianni Carpenter 3 John Phang 4 Demetrius DeAbreu Category E 1 Michael Alphonso 2 Madison Fernandes 3 Nechemiyah Levans Category F 1 Reza Ali 2 Kirsten Gomes 3 Tome Reis Category G 1 Nadine Jairam 2 Kamir Khan 3 Chad DeAbreu st
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The top finishers of the Kraft Junior Skill Level Squash tournament take time out for a photo after the presentation.
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prevailed 11-5, 11-6, 4-11,711, 11-3, forcing Melville to settle for third. Incidentally, Mekdeci and Akeila Wiltshire were adjudged most outstanding male and female players of the tournament. Anthony Islam had convincingly completed his victory of Category C but it was quite an interesting race for spaces for the runners up. Michael Ramroop was the eventual second place finisher with four wins and
two losses. Jael Gaskin, who also finished with four wins and two losses finished third as one of those losses was against Ramroop on opening night. Savannah Mendes managed to pull off a stunning win against Ramroop in four games on the final day. With that win and a walkover conceded by Sarah Lewis, Mendes ended up in fourth place. Anthony Islam was adjudged most improved boy of the tournament, while Harding
was named the most improved girl of the tournament. Brandon Debidin dominated Category D while Gianni Carpenter took second, John Phang third and Demetrius DeAbreu took fourth. Michael Alphonso was able to emerge victorious ahead of Madison Fernandes and Nechemiyah Levans respectively for the top spot in Category E. Reza Ali won Category F while Kirsten
Gomes took second and Tome Reis placed third. Nadine Jairam won Category G ahead of Kamir Khan and Chad DeAbreu
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Dyna’s Ravens are National Basketball Champion
GABF President, Nigel Hinds (right) and VP Michael Singh (left) join Dyna’s Ravens Basketball Club for a photo opportunity after their resounding win against Retrieve Raiders, Sunday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
Ahsan Malik walks back as the scoreboard confirms Netherlands’ plight. (Getty Images)
Dutch post record low score in Sri Lanka loss
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