Thursday March 30, 2017
Minister Harmon’s edict must apply to Royston King too DEAR EDITOR, The Minister of State has indicated the Government’s policy is to ensure that officers do not accumulate annual leave and in turn request pay in lieu of such. He said that this is the practice that they have embraced since they came into office and this sounds quite reasonable. But why then doesn’t this same law apply to the Town Clerk of Georgetown, Royston King who has years of annual leave accumulated but who has opted not to take it. Indeed, there could be no better time than now, for him to be made to take his leave, as there has been a suggestion that an audit in some shape or form may soon be undertaken at the Council. Additionally, with Minister of Communities suspending the operation of the ByLaws, which governs the Parking Meter Project for three months to allow for the
review of the agreement, again it would be a good idea to have the Town Clerk, a major player in the process recuse because of a potential conflict of interest or lack of impartiality. There is an old saying “What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” Or is King above the law? One gets the feeling that he is indispensable, and should he take his leave then the entire City Council would collapse. Time off work is important for health and wellbeing, and it also helps increase productivity. Creating an environment that encourages taking accrued holiday leave offers the opportunity to improve the mood and productivity of workers. The Human Resources Manager of the Council should be sanctioned for encouraging this malpractice and unprofessional conduct. Mateo Phelephe
The Linden Town Clerk didn’t commit the following transgressions DEAR EDITOR, Reading the news headline ‘Communities Minister sacks Linden Town Clerk with immediate effect’ left me to conclude that this was clearly a mistake in terms of which Town Clerk’s appointment was being revoked. This Town Clerk was cleared of any wrong-doing recently as documented in the conclusion of a recent Commission of Inquiry (COI). So what did she do to warrant this type of treatment? Did she subject her town to the bondage of a controversial and elusive Parking Meter contract? Did she give hundreds of millions of dollars to her friend in cleaning contracts in breach of all tender and bidding procedures? Did she engage in massive forms of nepotism and cronyism by hiring scores of her friends and family and
giving them super salaries with no work to do? Did she travel around the world first class wasting millions of dollars with nothing in return? Did she surround herself with a retinue of bodyguards and other staffers at a huge cost? Has she ever tendered bounced cheques to her Treasurer’s Department, illegally waived outstanding interest owed by defaulting ratepayers or taken huge loans and salary advances without repaying them? Was she in the habit of dining at fancy hotels and charging the Council? Has she suddenly become a multiple property owner? Did she ever disrespect the Minister of Communities? Did she ever show contempt for the Deputy Mayor or the vendors? I think not. So why is this Town Clerk being treated like this? Sambu Jacobus
Time for the traffic force to come out in full force DEAR EDITOR, Now that the parking meter project is under review, it is time that the Guyana Police Force’s traffic division comes out in full force. The Guyana Police Force’s “operation safeway”, exercise did NOT include the clearing of the listed intersections. 1) Middle and East streets. 2) Camp and Middle streets. 3) Camp and Robb streets (including clearing of all the
areas that is defined with the sign “no parking between signs 4) Camp and Regent Streets. 5) Camp and Charlotte streets ( this intersection is the worst, because a right turn cannot be made on Regent Street While at this, the Guyana Police Force can also stop all the private taxis that are blocking these important areas, because it is still illegal to operate private /hire. Roger Moore
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An evil act against the former Linden Town Clerk DEAR EDITOR, Without notice, without being provided a reason, without any viable justification, mere hours after fulfilling one of her administrative functions just the night before at a Statutory Meeting of the Linden Town Council – having been invited to attend a meeting of Town Clerks at the Ministry of Communities, Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, unilaterally, peremptorily dismissed Linden Town Clerk Jonellor Bowen, leaving her in a quandary, begging the question why, and what next? But were his actions really unilateral? Has Minister Bulkan become the fall-guy for the entire imbroglio that has relegated a female professional to a mere pawn in the political minefield of the PNC-led coalition government? If so, who decided this woman’s fate where she was arbitrarily fired from her job; although she was accused of no wrongdoing? Has she become a statistic of the growing number of Guyanese working-class victims who comprise the coalition’s ‘collateral damage’, as those who are being victimized by the APNU-AFC partnership were called by Minister Khemraj Ramjattan? Bowen had reportedly faced many difficulties in the execution of her duties as Town Clerk at the PNC-dominated Council led by Mayor Holland. However, even a specially-commissioned CoI, headed by PNC executive
member, found her not culpable of any wrongdoing; so why is this evil vendetta against her allowed to prevail, with no intervention by even female members of the government, or relevant ministerial persons or departments? Apparently Ms Bowen is not the only employee of the Linden municipality that is being ill-treated by the Mayor; and she had been prevailed upon to deliver complaints from his victims to the Ministry of Communities, whereupon, instead of conducting any investigation into the complaints, or taking any punitive action against Mayor Holland, the messenger was punished with revocation of her contract. What a diabolic act to protect the aggression another APNU-AFC official. Is some powerful government official protecting Mayor Holland; and what is the compulsion presumably coercing Minister Bulkan to act in such a manner that discredits his office and dishonours his professional reputation? Ms Jonellor Bowen has relentlessly been publicly vilified by Mayor Holland, chastised in the most abusive language in the public domain and humiliated by him in numerous ways, including speaking to her in the most condescending manner in the presence of junior staff. Apparently his disrespectful and abusive behavior was not limited to his treatment of Ms Bowen, because there have surfaced reports of written statements documenting Mayor Holland’s harsh
rudeness to junior staff, and it was immediately after the Town Clerk’s submission of one such report to the Ministry of Communities that she was dismissed, prompting the suspicion that Mayor Holland is under the protection of someone higher up the administrative ladder than Minister Bulkan. Given the fact that, instead of investigating the reports against Holland, Ms Bowen was summarily dismissed and the reports were ignored, these misgivings are not without merit. Condoning such egregious actions of government officials, such as the unrelenting persecution of Ms Jonellor Bowen and other female employees in public office is a stigma on the coalition government. Their declarations regarding empowerment of women and other vulnerable groups are in direct contrast to their actions. Compounding the farcical imbroglio playing out in the Linden municipality is the inanity of a subject minister describing an assertive, qualified professional, who does not submit to intimidating tactics by bullying functional superiors in a work environment, as disruptive, disrespectful, divisive (for listening to and acting on complaints against Mayor Holland). Minister Bulkan’s lame excuses to media operatives was that Ms Bowen did not understand ‘her role’; which is, perhaps, being subjective
to Mayor Holland’s reported bullying mannerisms and submissive to his male dominance. The persecution of Ms Jonellor Bowen is a remarkably evil act that should be condemned by all right-thinking persons; but where are the voices of conscience who waged relentless war against the previous government when accused of infringing, even marginally, their perceptions of right behavior? Double standards and doublespeak seem to prevail in PNC-APNU-AFC enclaves. Or is it because her standards of high moral rectitude offend officials who may see her as someone who should be willing to compromise her morals in order to retain a job? Or is it because, as a practicing Seventh-Day Adventist member, she does not belong to the denominations of church bodies led by senior regional/political PNC activists, who have been appointing their own church members to positions for which many do not qualify. Questions are being asked as to whether Minister Bulkan was prevailed upon by the PNC leadership in Linden, after a visit last Wednesday by two government ministers who are also members of the PNC Central Executive Committee, to fire Bowen, which was done early the next day, to facilitate the visit by President Granger on the following Friday and ensure that there were no controversial Continued on page 6
Information should be disseminated on the dangers of second-hand smoke DEAR EDITOR, LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! This real estate mantra came to me as I considered the irony of the proposed anti-smoking legislation. The government is proposing a smoking ban in public places, among other things, as a part of their antismoking legislation. When I thought about this, I wondered at the motive and their justification. Is smoke in a square different from smoke on my uncle’s veranda? It’s the same smoke so why is it alright on his veranda? And why is it different if my Uncle has people who work at his home? The justification may be that the government is looking out for the health of the public and to curb smoke pollution in their cities and towns but what of the country areas and the homes? They can be dirty and
hazardous? You see, if the difference is location there is no justification, the law only applies to public places because beyond that the law would be impossible to impose. A murder in the public causes the same outrage as in the home and the perpetrators wherever, are charged accordingly. Since cigarettes are not illegal substances a man in possession of tobacco cannot be criminalized. If simply moving from a public
space to say a tenement yardnot a public place by the government’s standards- full of children playing, is not against the law then the law does address what it proposes to address. I do not promote smoking around children, but I use this example to show that the building block of this proposed ban is location. Location is too easily manipulated for the law to have the effect of protecting non-smokers from second hand smoke. What will protect citizens is not an easily manipulated law but information on the hazards of
second hand smoke, the dangers of smoking and respect for non-smokers and smokers. What will protect our industries and our economy is not higher taxes and prohibiting advertising of products but support for our farmers and distributors and an integrated approach that will contribute to the building of a stronger nation. Dalan Friday
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POSITIVE RESPONSE TO CRIME FIGHTING IN ‘D’ DIVISION DEAR EDITOR, Please allow me space to express our observations on crime and law enforcement in a particular area, Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara. As an organization, INDIAN VISION FOR NATIONAL HARMONY, we are seriously concerned with development and good governance which includes law enforcement. A visible, police presence is prevalent in our community and crimes reported at the Leonora Police Station are responded to with a measure of intent and urgency, much to the satisfaction of its residents. Our organization met with the commander of the Leonora Police Station, Mr. Leslie James and we had a very intense discussion on alleviating crimes, police conduct and fostering racial harmony, which is one of our objectives. We were impressed
with the Commander’s attention and his eagerness to assist with our concern. Clearly, a signal of action is reverberating in our community when it comes to fighting crime, notably, the apprehension of murderers, livestock rustlers, resolving conflicts with neighbours and families. Although we cannot speak for the entire community, the general feeling is that Law Enforcement has improved and credit should be given to the Commander of the Leonora Police Station, Mr Leslie James and some of his staff, while there is room for improvement for other members under his command. We feel that the Commander’s effort in trying to make policing reputable is gaining positive results and whatever policies and programmes he intends to embark on in the future will certainly bring success to his division at large. Balchand Ramnarain
Hardware store cheated me out I was so disappointed of my money head. to know my money was DEAR EDITOR, I ask that you publish this letter so the Guyanese public can know how we are being robbed. I just left school and began working for the first time, doing carpentry. I went to a popular hardware store and bought a claw hammer for $795.00. On my first day of work, the first task was to remove some inch and a half nails. With the first nail I tried to removed, the hammer’s handle broke from its metal
wasted Let God be my judge if I am telling the truth. This is the same business place that is for the revoking of the parking meter project and telling those people how to run their operations and this store is guilty of bringing the most inferior product into this country. Where is the Guyana Bureau of Standards? Where is the Government to put things in place for the poor and working class citizens? Needy Guyanese
An evil act against the former... From page 5 issues, or disruptive complaints from the Town Clerk against Holland to mar his President Granger’s) visit. This evil action has planted an evil seed: Expect a swift, evil harvest, with the residents of Linden being the ‘collateral damage’.Reports are that an incompetent political personality would be appointed as Town Clerk, which would precipitate a Council in utter confusion, a demoralized workforce, an alienation of specifically-identified contractors and suppliers.
The infantile brand of politics being practiced by Mayor Holland will result in implosion around the horseshoe table. This demonic act that gives cover to Mayor Holland cannot endure, because a continuum of scandalous behaviour by PNC appointees would have the expected outcome and this runaway train of lawlessness will boomerang and severely injure even the coalition government and its support bases. Remember the Bible says: “Whatever you sow, you shall reap:”. Bishop Juan Edghill M.P.
Thursday March 30, 2017
City Hall’s caricatured definition of aesthetics DEAR EDITOR, Clearly there is someone at City Hall that has a dark, sick and twisted sense of humour. Driving along Church Street or North Road one cannot help but notice on the Merriman’s Mall between Cummings and Light Streets a most unattractive and unsightly area that is occupied by a number of barbers and cosmetologists who were scooped up from the pavements of America, Longden, Regent and Croal Streets in the downtown area of Georgetown and dumped there. Indeed officials of the City Council themselves said that the condition of the area is like a shantytown, and that
the place was an embarrassment to city council. They even conceded that they were not in compliance with public health guidelines, which state that they should operate in enclosed spaces equipped with facilities to sterilize instruments used and that they provided unfair competition to established barbershops and hairdressing salons who had to rent stations at not insignificant prices costly and who had to be licensed by the Public Health Department, whilst those on the mall were unregistered and unlicensed and operating without even paying the $1,000 environmental fee. But do you think those dark forces at City Hall cor-
rected the situation? Of course not! They allowed these vendors to cover the base of the work stations with new vinolay and replace the old tents with new tents and continue in violation of the public health guidelines and in competition with the established barbershops and hairdressing salons who pay their property rates to the Council and taxes to the Government. Just so sick and irresponsible! But that is not all. The Council has now facilitated the erection of two huge billboards at both ends of this cluster of makeshift business places captioned ‘Georgetown Beauty and Body Promenade’. Is this not
a mockery? The word beauty which means the quality of being physically attractive cannot in any way be assimilated with that area. It cannot even refer to the services the vendors provide as their operations are unregistered, unlicensed and not compliance with public health guidelines. But then again, the Town Clerk could be seen on Facebook being treated to a pedicure there, and is well known to have delusions of grandeur in affixing the name of Parliament View Mall to a squalid and overcrowded vending area. The erection of such a sign is not only taunting but a waste of money. Poor Georgetown! Modi Sankar
Cricket is a more developed sport than football is in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, The disclosure by FIFA Director of Member Associations & Development for Africa and the Caribbean, Mr. Veron Mosengo Omba that FIFA is pleased with work of Forde and GFF remains rather unfortunate. He makes such an assessment after a two day visit. Can he make such a pronouncement in such a short space of time? Exactly what is pleasing; office procedures, secretarial duties, acquiring a Technical Director, Development Officers and establishing a Youth Academy? In erstwhile, proper playing/training facilities for clubs, in the respective Associations over years have gotten worse. Is strategic emphasis being placed on this by the GFF? Within Georgetown there are the two oldest clubs nationally, GFC and Santos. The former over a decade or more upgraded its playing surface, to a lesser extent the floodlights and dressing rooms. But what is sadly lack-
ing until now is seating accommodation. In relation to the latter, a worst-case scenario exists, pertaining to the lack of a proper training venue. GFC, GDF, Tucville, Police and Campton are the only venues, which are suitable to host senior competition matches domestically, reflective of less than 50% of the city based clubs. So, what of the others? Are training venues listed on the affiliation forms? How many clubs still have the National Park ground as a training venue? The most active association, EBFA plays all of its competitions at the Grove ground, while the Bartica Community Centre ground is virtually unplayable. Is this the hallmark of development that is likely to see football surpassing cricket to become the number one national sport? By relevant comparison, cricket receives far less annual subventions from its parent body and is more properly structured developmen-
tally. Over the years, I always advocated that development and progress can’t be measured by an increased number of clubs. Rather, it must
be less clubs that are more properly structured, efficient and professionally run. The days for carrying dead weight are over. Lester Sealey
These foreign currencies do not enter the Guyana market DEAR EDITOR, Guyanese all over the world remit millions of foreign currency on a weekly basis to their families back home here in Guyana. Most times they use a company to facilitate these transfers. The company does not give the families in Guyana the actual denomination sent but instead they convert these remittances to Guyanese dollars at a further profit to themselves, as a low exchange rate is imposed on receivers of these remittances. This foreign currency does not enter the Guyana market. If the Guyana govern-
ment was to halt this practice by this company and force them to remit the exact currency that is being sent to the receivers in Guyana this will lead to an increase in the liquidity of foreign currencies in Guyana. This company is not a cambio and therefore should be barred from converting Guyanese hard earn foreign currency. Simultaneously Government must see this current currency crisis as an assault on the democracy of Guyana and their ability to govern. Government needs to identify the players who are making life hard for the small man and stop them. Malachi James
PPP Govt. hatred accountability and transparency From page 4 license or marketing authorization to supply prescription items. It hastened to register its business later in 2014 as Ramotar was set to suspend Parliament. Irregularities at GPHC also permeated Human Resource Management and the culture of doing business there. There is no wonder that the mortality rate is so high because of the need for greater professionalism, care, and empathy for others. The pharmacy issued drugs to wards and to patients with no patient diagnosis stated on the prescription, often unstamped and unsigned. Unqualified persons and also permanent individuals
were transferred to contract. What is even more bizarre is that in the last days of the PPP(C) Government, officers would sign off on each other’s acting and responsibility allowances in contravention of Public Service Rules which give the authority on these matters to the Public Service Commission and Public Service Ministry, respectively. This is the corrupt system of the corrupt PPP(C). It is the hand that the PPP(C) has dealt Guyanese and they now have the audacity to justify their criminal actions and lecture the nation about corruption and democracy. They have no shame! Their objective is to under-
mine any meaningful reform in the Health and other sectors since many suppliers and key decision makers had invested in their corrupt system of patronage. They thrive on Ad Hoc practices and circumvent internal controls and standard operating procedures. They hate transparency and account a b i l i t y a n d pedal fake news to sway public opinion for their narrow self-interest and political agenda. They are gleeful that SOCU has so far not charged anyone for administrative crimes while in office. Most significantly, they are making hay of the fact that the coalition government has
failed to clean up the old mess and change the corrupt PPP system. It is imperative to immediately establish a task force to correct the organizational and systemic problems the auditors have cited at GHPC and every other government agency. This task force will put the necessary changes in place and periodically assess the impact of these changes to stop the haemorrhaging. The work of the task force is long overdue and is critical for the 2020 coalition platform. It is time for real change – and quickly, before we change back to the corruption unlimited of the PPP(C). Max Wallerson
Thursday March 30, 2017
ExxonMobil to take on meaningful social responsibilities Oil giant, ExxonMobil will be making a meaningful contribution to the social fabric of Guyana, according to Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman. During a recent interview with Kaieteur News, the Minister said that Exxon is very willing to contribute to the development of Guyana by exercising its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Corporate social responsibility refers to business practices involving initiatives that benefit a society. A business’s CSR can encompass a wide variety of tactics, from giving away a portion of a company’s proceeds to charity, to implementing “greener” business operations. Some companies look to cushion the environmental consequences of their business activities. So far, the multi-billiondollar oil company, ExxonMobil has erected a fountain in the Botanical Gardens. Trotman indicated that that was part of the gift worked out for Guyana’s 50th anniversary but noted that a more meaningful delivery in the making. He said, “We do have a CSR programme we are working on and looking to finalize.” The Minister also indicated that the consultation
Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman process between Government and Exxon on this matter will come to an end this week. Trotman said that his Ministry has four primary areas to which it wants ExxonMobil to commit. These, as outlined by the Minister, are land reformation, establishing green spaces, youth membership schemes, and a youth innovation fund. Land reformation usually speaks to the transfer of agricultural land to land that can be used for residential purposes. The Guyana Sugar Corporation has many lands
that can be transformed. Trotman said that the green spaces are to be established in communities. He explained that they are looking to have parks and gardens created. Then there is the youth membership scheme which the Minister said will involve taking youths to the interior and site of extractive industries for them to witness good environmental practices etc. the Youth innovation fund is to be set up to aid young people with good ideas on conservation and generally projects that will help to promote a green economy. Trotman also noted that Exxon has its own work that it is doing with women and some communities “so we are looking to see how we can fuse the two to have a coordinated effort. Guyana can expect much more.” Guyana has had many companies exploiting its natural resources but few have made meaningful social contributions. Chinese logging company BaiShanLin Development Inc. is one that has engaged in no known sustained form of CSR. Residents of Region 10 even complained of how the company destroyed their roads and refused to repair them.
UG students to protest tuition fees hike today The Governing Council of the University of Guyana (UG) is expected to meet today, March 30. Among the issues to be addressed, is the proposed 35 percent hike in tuition fees.
protest is planned for today. The decision to gather outside of the Education Lecture Theatre (ELT) at the Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara campus at midday today, was taken during a
picketing exercise. “Most likely it will be placards and a silent stand. We are going to stand in front of the (ELT) building...just to be there and show our presence and our
University of Guyana students gathered in the George Walcott Lecture Theatre yesterday. Although the proposal was made by the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, it is the Council that is tasked with making the final decision. In an effort to ensure that members of the council are aware of the strain that an increase in tuition fees would put on students, a silent
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lengthy interactive session with students and their union representatives at the George Walcott Lecture Theatre (GWLT). President of the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS), Ron Glasgow, told Kaieteur News yesterday that the protest will take the form of a silent
dissatisfaction,” Glasgow said. Professor Griffith, during an on- campus Town Hall meeting on Tuesday, proposed that that the increases be applied incrementally. The first 15 percent of the increase is proposed to be Continued on page 8
Gecom Chairmanship…
Opposition to submit second list this week By Brushell Blackman The opposition People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/ C) has indicated that it will be submitting a second list of potential chairpersons for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) by the end of the week. At a press conference at the opposition leader’s office yesterday, PPP/C Member of Parliament, Gail Teixeira said that her party found it difficult to find candidates who could confirm to the criteria set out by President David Granger for the chairmanship of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). According to Teixeira her party has been holding consultations to find suitable candidates with a view to submitting a second list to the president after the first list was rejected. She said that the civil society was given until March 27, to come up with names, but they asked for more time to consult with the relevant stakeholders on the issue. She said that so far her party has been given 15 submissions by civil society, with some of those being persons who would have been recommended previously. “Some organizations have admitted that they have been having difficulties finding persons who could fulfill the criteria established by the president.” The former Home Affairs Minister admitted that even those names that were submitted may not meet the benchmark. She said that the president has gone beyond the constitution and this is placing undue pressure and duress on the selection process for the GECOM chairmanship. Teixeira said that the constitution did not contemplate many of the criteria set out by the president, including the need to have electoral knowledge. It was her belief that the
PPP/C Member of Parliament Gail Teixeira thrust of what the constitution places greater emphasis on, is the integrity and the independence of the post holder. Ms Teixeira said that the religious community has issues with the criteria themselves. According to her that community went so far as to say even Jesus couldn’t meet the criteria the president is looking for. She said that particular chairman that the president is seeking can be likened to ‘superman’. Bishop Juan Edghill said that the president’s criteria is designed to ensure that the person who takes up that position is someone that is favoured by the president. Edghill accused the head of state of seeking out per-
sonalities that he is comfortable with to fill positions that are of national importance to ensure that the ruling administration’s agenda is championed. In light of the wide ranging criteria set out by the president the party was asked, what do they intend to do if the second list is rejected?. It was indicated that the party (PPP/C) will confront that issue when that time comes. However Teixeira noted that based on the utterances of the Minister of State Joseph Harmon, the party can submit as many lists as it wants; however some are of the view that the president can make a unilateral decision on the Gecom chairmanship. The criteria set out by the Continued on page 10
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Thursday March 30, 2017
Kaieteur News
Teachers’ promotions...
Over 70 changes made to court ordered review
Guyana to embark on first agricultural census in 65 years
-Union feels vindicated by outcome Several teachers who were identified for promotions on the previous Teaching Service Commission (TSC’)s preliminary list of senior promotions have not found their names on a recently revised list. This development has occurred because these teachers following a courtmandated review were found to not be suitably qualified for positions for which they had applied. This is according President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union, Mark Lyte, who noted that “the union feels vindicated that its call for a review has yielded substantial changes. I have perused the document [new promotion list] and found that there are 73 changes. These include people changing in terms of the names that were on the previous list,” Lyte informed. The GTU had, in 2015, moved to the court to prevent the TSC from going ahead with its preliminary list of promotions in light of the fact that it had concerns with the promotion process. The court matter in this regard only came to finality in November of last year with the court supporting the GTU’s call for a review of the promotion process. “We insisted that something was amiss with the promotion process and we are happy that the court ruled in our favour...The list that we are now seeing proves that our concerns were valid,” Lyte said. “We found there were a number of changes in the list,” the GTU President said. He qualified this submission by pointing out that while there were about four teachers who were named on the previous list to be promoted to Mathematics Head of Department; at least one of these names has been removed from the list. This is in light of the fact, Lyte noted, that the criteria for
GTU President, Mr. Mark Lyte this promotion required that eligible teachers have a degree in the subject area. “We found that one person who was appointed there has since been removed from the list because upon their [TSC’s] perusal that person was not eligible,” Lyte noted. Under the promotion category of English Head of Department, Lyte said that the previous list contained seven names. However, the reviewed list reveals that four of these names have since been removed, as these persons again were found to be not eligible for the senior promotion. Further, Lyte revealed that two names that were not previously there have been added. There were similar occurrences for the position of Allied Arts Head of Department whereby TSC in its earlier preliminary list had promoted one individual who is no longer on the revised list since that person did not meet the criteria. Lyte also detailed multiple instances where there were identical occurrences in the promotion of Head Teachers and Deputy Head Teachers of various levels of schools.
“All of these are significant and most of them [promotion categories] had several glaring,” related Lyte. According to him, although the wait for the changes to materialise was long, “it was worth it. Now the eligible teachers are being duly placed in their various positions.” Teachers have approximately two weeks after the publication of the list to issue appeals to the TSC after which a final list will be publicised. This will allow the teachers to assume their new positions at the start of the new school term, according to Ramson. Ramson in an invited comment to this publication said that completing the promotion process at this time, is in keeping with a promise made by the TSC to the GTU. The promise, according to Ramson, is that teachers will be promoted in time for the upcoming school term. “We made sure we kept our promise. We worked tediously and it meant even if we had to go late into the nights we would have done it because we made that promise and we are people of our word,” asserted the TSC Chairperson. The promotions will be retroactive to September 1, 2015. “I think this is a plus,” said Lyte as he considered that while a number of teachers will be happy with the development several of them will also be disgruntled because their names have been removed from the list. “We have to live with that because our work is in the interest of all teachers and not just some of them. The process must be fair and equitable... TSC has proven through this review that over the years there may have been a number of people who were not given the promotions due to them because of this flawed process...so we are happy that it has been addressed,” asserted Lyte. He continued, “The TSC has completed the appointments and what we have noted must be brought to the public’s attention...The gist of this thing was to ensure that TSC appointed the people who were eligible and due for the positions they applied for barring the comments of the officers.” It is believed that the promotion process over the years has been influenced by certain regional officers, a state of affairs that Lyte hopes will become a thing of the past.
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan
Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder
The inking of the US$15M loan between the State and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) last month, will pave the way for the execution of Guyana’s first ever agricultural census. This announcement was made by the Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, during the launch of the Sustainable Agriculture Development Programme (SADP) at the Agriculture Ministry in Georgetown yesterday morning. “It will be our first Agricultural Census in 65 years, an event which is supposed to happen every 10 years,” the Minister said. The preparation and implementation of the census is provided for under Component One of the SADP – Generating information for evidence-based policy making and resource management. The information obtained from an agriculture census – according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) website – will reveal “the state of a country’s agricultural sector – from the size of holdings, land tenure, land use, area harvested, irri-
gation, livestock, labour and other agricultural inputs.” This information is deemed vital in agricultural planning and policy-making, research and development and monitoring the impact of agriculture on the environment. Minister Holder said that with the focus on Guyana’s ‘vital’ agriculture sector, information from the census will give planners and policymakers an understanding of the progress and future prospects of all agricultural industries and their products, and farm practices. “It will also help farmers, policymakers and others involved in the industry to determine strategies to ensure sustainable farming.” The Minister regaled the gathering of utterances made by the Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, who told the National Assembly last year during his 2017 Budget presentation, that this year will be one which will see the realisation of promises made by the Coalition Administration since it went into office back in May 2015. “Minister Jordon, in his 2017 Budget Address, pledged 2017 as the year of realized promises of building
a diversified, green economy: delivering the good life to all Guyanese. With the launch here today, we are playing our part to increase the productivity of the agricultural sector while maintaining a sustainable and climate resilient use of natural resources in Guyana. This project speaks directly to building our green economy whilst contributing to providing a good life to all Guyanese.” Minister Holder said. The Minister said, also, that the agricultural sector is expected to make a ‘major’ contribution to the development of a green state by contributing to food and nutrition security, poverty eradication, adaptation to climate change, building resilience in the sector, increase in employment to name a few. “The Ministry is also expected to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 agenda, through inputs in the areas of livestock, fisheries, crops, irrigation and drainage, pesticide management and control and, marketing. The collective interventions by the major sectors are required to ensure a more coordinated and harmonized policy approach.”
From page 7 effective from September – the beginning of the new academic year. A 10 percent increase is planned to be applied next year, followed by the other 10 percent increase in 2019. “The UGSS stance is the stance of the students, and the stance of the students is that they don’t want an increase in the fees,” Glasgow posited. Speaking with Kaieteur News yesterday, Professor Griffith highlighted the need for the University of Guyana to have a better resource pool. “The university’s resource pool needs to come from at least three sources –
government subvention, tuition and fees, and any merchandizing and private fund raising that we are doing,” the Vice Chancellor said. In the 2017 National Budget, the Government allocated some $2.9B to support UG’s operations and construct a teaching and learning complex for mathematics and science. Nonetheless, UGSS is standing firm against the proposed increases, especially since they believe that the consultations leading up to such a big decision were grossly inadequate. This was clarified at yesterday’s session with students. Glasgow, who following the announcement, was
accused of not having the best interest of the student population, said, “The reality is that the consultations happened during the course of about a seven-day period. There were three consultations.” He added that the consultations were nothing substantive to satisfy the concerns of the students and its representative body. As the alarm was sounded for a call to protest, Marketing Student, Romel Roopnarine implored that students try their best to show up at the picket, since numbers is key to sending a strong message to the UG administration.
By Suraj Narine
UG students to protest tuition...
Thursday March 30, 2017
PAGE 9
Kaieteur News
From fake news to fake illness Years ago, a government worker went to see the doctor at the out-patient department of the Georgetown Public Hospital. He complained that he had the flu. The doctor checked his temperature. It was okay. The doctor checked his tongue. No problem was found. The doctor used a wooden spatula to check and ask him to say “AH!” There was no sore throat. The doctor found no sign of a running nose. The doctor asked the man if he had diarrhea. The man said he had running bowels all night. The doctor checked the man for signs of dehydration. He found none, his skin was supple, his membranes moist and flush. The doctor suspected the man was lying. He however preferred to err on the side of
being rigorous in his diagnosis. So he sent him for a blood test to see whether there were signs that the body was fighting an infection. None was found. The doctor told the man that he did not find any signs of an infection. The man then told the doctor that his tummy was hurting and he believed that he had an internal problem. The doctor placed the man to lie down on the examination table and began to press different parts of the man’s tummy. With every press, the man screamed. He even screamed when the doctor attempted to but did not press the tummy. The doctor was certain that the man was feigning illness and so he decided to play along. He told the man that he
needed to send him to do surgery. The man sprang off the table. He confessed that he was there to get a doctor’s certificate so that he could absent himself from work on the grounds that he was sick. This was not an isolated case. Each day hundreds of persons flock to the out-patient department of government hospitals and health clinics in order to get medical help. A fair percentage of those that go to these outpatient services are Government workers seeking to obtain a medical certificate so that they can absent from work. Many of them can work but they are intent to staying away from work. This is an abuse of the health system. The system is being
Dem boys seh...
Pay de tax or ride tax-free bicycle Dem boys notice that some people mekking big fuss over paying tax pun de tuition fee. Like dem believe dem can go anywhere else and send dem children to private school and don’t pay de tax, dem lie. Private schools in North America and even around de world does have to pay dem taxes to de government. Once services is being rendered and money passing people have to pay dem dues. De big argument in Guyana is people sending dem children to private school, have money to pay de teachers and de school but crying to pay de tax. De answer is simple, if you don’t want pay any tax, send de children back to public schools or keep dem home. You can also bring de teacher home. Dem boys notice that de same people who complaining about paying de tax pun de tuition fee don’t complain to pay de taxes when dem go to private hospitals. In fact, dem does pay fuh everything. In de real world you pay de taxes on de quality of goods and services rendered. Tek
for example one man bring in a motorbike and pay $40,000 in taxes. Another man bring in a bicycle and de govt seh bicycle is free of taxes. Dem who don’t want to pay de tax on de tuition fees believe that dem have de right to refuse to ride bicycle just like how dem got to right to refuse to send dem pickney to public school and public hospital. But dem want to bring in and ride a fancy motorbike and don’t pay no taxes. Dem boys seh if you can afford to pay teachers and pay de private school you can pay de taxes. Is de same thing you does do when you go to private hospital. You pay fuh even de cotton wool. If you pay for an ad in de paper, you got to pay tax pun it. If you pay fuh a fancy chair set anywhere, not only Courts, you got to pay de tax. Is de same thing wid a fridge and de same thing wid all de private school. Talk half and if you don’t want to pay de tax on de fridge, de chair set and de ad, stick wid wha you got. In de case of de school, go back to public.
clogged up by those whose motive is to obtain a sickleave certificate. Persons who are genuinely sick have to wait in line. There is a need for more stringent action to be taken to reduce the incidence of those who are faking illnesses in order to get medical certificates which will allow them off from work for a couple of days. There are a number of qualified doctors trained in Cuba and in Guyana who cannot find jobs in the local health system. These persons should be employed within Government ministries and departments. Any person who is sick should have to go to these in-house doctors to certify them as being sick. There was a report also yesterday about a number of medexes who cannot find employment as yet.
Whatever is the problem needs to be sorted out and these medexes can also be put to work in ministries and government departments to ensure that workers are genuinely sick before they obtain sick leave certificate. A number of private companies, in the past used to have in-house doctors to treat workers. The experience has been that in– house doctors reduced the aggregate number of sick days claimed by workers. The workers had the option of regularly being seen by the doctor. This served as a preventative measures against some major illnesses. When the workers contracted some communicable disease, they could visit the in–house doctors free of cost and at the onset of any illness, thereby ensuring that
swift action could be taken to bring relief. The experience is that inhouse doctors, while costly, initially, had long-term gains. It reduced overall sick leave and thereby ensured more production. It improved relations between the companies and their staff since this initiative was seen as one which had the workers’ interest at heart. The Government of Guyana should contemplate placing doctors and medexes in ministries and public departments as a means of finding jobs for those in the medical profession without a job, while reducing absenteeism due to fake illnesses and improving worker production and productivity.
West Berbice man to stand trial for murder Magistrate Rhondel Weever, on Monday at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court, ruled that a prima facie case was made out against a Hopetown man accused of murder and rape, and so he has committed the accused, Devon Griffith, to stand trial at the Berbice High Court. Griffith, 26, also known as Two- Kick, of Cemetery Road, Hopetown Village, West Coast Berbice, is accused of raping and murdering 79-year-old Vida Britton at her son’s residence, 10 Main Street Hopetown, West Coast Berbice, on October 3, 2015. The accused who was well known to the victim, his great-aunt, was charged on October 9, 2015, but the matter was discharged in the Magistrate Court on a technical point ar-
gued by then counsel for the defense, Peter Hughes. However, Two-kick had his freedom curtailed early in February when he appeared in court to give evidence against Quinn George who had wounded him during an altercation late last year. He was rearrested on February 2 in connection with the death of Vida Britton which had taken place on October 3, 2015. Medical report suggests that the elderly woman was strangled and sexually assaulted, and the victim’s granddaughter now ten years old would have witnessed the incident. With the accused having been committed to stand trial in the High Court, he has been remanded to prison, and he is now awaiting a date for trial.
PAGE 10
Thursday March 30, 2017
Kaieteur News
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
The ubiquity of Jagdeo’s depravity The sad thing about post 2015 politics, and I mean really sad, is that a concatenation of unruly, crazy, self-destructive mistakes by the Coalition Government have in diverse ways, played into the hands of the PPP. One would have thought that a priority of the new government was to fully expose the despicable depravity and unspeakable of the Jagdeo/ Ramotar cabals. It is going on to two years since the coalition administration came to power and we are still to see a graphic exploration of the naked abuse of power by these two presidents. What went on in Guyana between 2001 and the end of the Ramotar minority presi-
dency was an incredible journey into West Indian lunacy. Take Jamaica. Inner city gunmen have always done violent work for the main rival parties but it is unthinkable that these gunmen would be seen doing security work for former Prime Ministers or be seen frequenting party headquarters. Jagdeo perambulates Guyana and at his side are violent men with bestial instincts some of whom have been convicted of criminal violence, some of whom are before the courts, some of whom the police have confession statements. This is the nature of the man, Jagdeo. The remnants of intoxicated power during the social debaucheries of
Jagdeo and Ramotar are ubiquitous. We see it every day on the face of this country. We are hearing about the asininity of state subsidized land at Pradoville 2 which is not different from the normal housing policy of the then PPP government. Does the state sell subsidized house lots and offer them to people whose income is so substantial that they could have afforded to buy private land? The Jagdeo regime called the then President of the Caribbean Development Bank, Dr. Compton Bourne, and sold him a Pradoville 2 lot. By any stretch of the imagination such a person does not need a subsidized house lot. The people who need it
and are entitled to it are people without any substantial resources. The list is end-
Frederick Kissoon less and includes public servants with immense years of service to this land – nurses, civil servants, soldiers, police officers, firemen, university
lecturers, state media workers, but surely not the President of the Caribbean Development Bank. The Pradoville 2 scandal is making the news but there are more egregious giveaways by these two former presidents. Enormous public riverside real estate was sold to Jagdeo’s friends for peanuts. One former Guysuco head sold himself hundreds of acres of Guysuco land again for peanuts. We just read last week that one of Jagdeo’s best friends owed the government a few million US dollars. One million US is 220 million Guyanese. Whether the SARU Head, Professor Clive Thomas had an inaccurate figure of a few hundred billions is not the point. Billions of state funds have been siphoned off by the Jagdeo/Ramotar cabals and this should never go uninvestigated and unpunished. How about this one; one of the beneficiaries of the Pradoville 2 scandal has agreed to pay the state for the land using market value. He was merely a minister. From where will he find that dozens of millions? We all know the answer. A sordid story that is neatly tucked away from the eyes of the Guyanese people is the riches of a former police commissioner that Jagdeo confirmed even though the US Government warned
Jagdeo that the fellow was corruptly linked to narco-trafficking. A dispute among the beneficiaries of his will reveals the man has handsome wealth that includes gold mining claims. Where did a public servant who worked in the public sector all his adult life get so much wealth? Are we to accept that Mr. Jagdeo is entitled to immunity as a former president and Guyana cannot do a damn thing about the recipients of state resources that were literally given away by Mr. Jagdeo. Someone asked an interesting question or I might have read it in a letter to the newspaper. If Jagdeo had murdered someone during his presidency, does that come under the immunity clause? So in effect, a president under the 1980 constitution can simply do whatever he wants and once he demits office he cannot be charged. So if Jagdeo did kill someone, that would have been a life that was utterly wasted because the killer is above the law. Is that what our constitution provides for? So if the Americans give us evidence of Jagdeo’s collusion with drug traffickers, all we can do is tell the Americans and the Guyanese people that it is useless information. I do not believe the immunity clause is so bottomless. Jagdeo has to face the law.
Opposition to submit... From page 7 president for someone to take up the position of GECOM chairman is as follows; the candidate should be a person who is qualified to be a judge of the High Court under Article 129 of the Constitution and under Section 5 of the High Court Act, Cap 3:02; that person should have been an attorney-at-law for a minimum of seven years, according to Section 5 of the High Court Act, Cap 3:02; In the absence of 1 and 2 above ‘any other fit and proper person’ should be appointed according to Article 161 (2) of the Constitution. The categories of persons specified above are necessary because such persons should have the following characteristics; that person is deemed to have wide electoral knowledge, capable of handling electoral matters because he or she is qualified to exercise unlimited jurisdiction in civil matters; that person will discharge his or her functions without fear or favour, that is, he or she will not allow any person or organization to influence him or her to compromise his or her neutrality; that person will discharge his or her functions neutrally, between the two opposing parties, as he or she would have done in court between two opposing litigants and that person will not be an activist in any form (gender, racial, religious etc),the persons should also have a general character of honesty, integrity, faithfulness and diligence in the discharge of his or her duty as Chairman.”
Thursday March 30, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Nursing educators cannot be blamed for Opposition calls for COI into downfall of system – GNA Executive UK expert’s role at SOCU The nursing education system will continue to fail if remedial measures are not put in place immediately. This deduction has been made by Nurse Educator and Executive Member of the Guyana Nurses Association, Ms. Cleopatra Barkoye. Barkoye in a missive seen by this publication asserted that “teaching in any Government nursing school is having a basket to fetch water.” She went on to qualify her assertion by sharing what some has described as the genesis of the downfall of nursing education. “In the past, some smart Minister had a mandate to mass produce nurses so in 2008 the Georgetown School of Nursing was forced to take 145 students in one class.” She said that in 2010, a total of 231 persons were sent, all to one class. Faced with this daunting state of affairs Barkoye said that “the tutors on the professional [nurses] programme used their God-given imagination to work in classrooms without any public address system.” According to Barkoye, “The 2010 student intake took five to six years (of a two-year programme) to see it through the school system...” During this time three tutors retired, two resigned and three new teachers joined the staff. In 2011, a total of 127 persons were sent to be registered in the professional nursing programme but according to Barkoye by the following year the Ministry of Health wanted the Georgetown School of Nursing to also enrol students on the evening shift. Forty-four persons were admitted on the evening shift. This, Barkoye recalled, led to the rebellion of nursing tutors. “The Guyana Nurses
- “It is time policymakers step up”
Association supported them by hosting a press conference to assist the faculty with their cry for help. The teachers knew, then, that after many days the basket would give,” Barkoye noted. She explained that the New Amsterdam School of Nursing, which is physically housed in two homes, has three full-time tutors and
a student population of 148 in five different groups in three programmes. Then there is the Charles Roza School of Nursing which has 11 full-time tutors with a student population of 237 in eight different classes on three separate programmes on two shifts. The Georgetown School of Nursing on the other hand has 347 students on two shifts in two buildings and seven full-time tutors. Students in this instance, Barkoye said, undergo three programmes in 13 different classes. Given the related teaching challenges, Barkoye noted that “the need for more fulltime tutors and clinical instructors was pointed out on numerous occasions to the Ministry of Health by all three [nursing school] principals at various times since this saga
started.” She, however, noted that while the curriculum specified clinical instructors to work alongside the students, the job description resembled that of a tutor thus the position was not created by the Public Service Ministry. The resulting situation was that “the practice site was and is a disaster zone where the students were left, so only the fit shall survive,” Barkoye added. A total of 179 students were required to re-sit the examination last month but based on the results seen by this publication only 23 of the lot, from across the nursing schools, secured overall passes. The nursing schools that participated in the State Finals were the Georgetown School of Nursing, the New Amsterdam School of Nursing, the Charles Roza School of Nursing and the privately operated St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. Reports suggest that the performance of the re-sit seems to be on par with the performance of those admitted to the programme in 2010. The daunting performance of students might have been amplified by the fact that many students were not willing to utilise. “The old out-dated library was not utilised not even to its minimum, since the young generation preferred the technology of which no Government Nursing School had,” said Barkoye. She related that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry in an intervening move requested that nursing educators adopt the use of technology to teach. But according to Barkoye, Continued on page 23
The opposition People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/ C) is calling on the government to set up a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the role of the British fraud expert, Dr. Sam Sittlington. At a press conference hosted by the PPP/C yesterday, Member of Parliament Gail Teixeira, restated the party’s position that Sittlington had overreached in his capacity as the adviser to the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). The parliamentarian said that contrary to what SOCU and the British High Commission have stated, Sittlington was involved in constitutional matters which were outside of his purview as an adviser. She stated that the opposition party was informed that Sittlington on many occasions accompanied police officers from SOCU to conduct raids on the premises of Guyanese businessmen and other public officials. This, she believed, encroached on the sovereignty of those Guyanese and these actions should not have been allowed to happen. She said that the government had requested the services of the fraud expert and she would have thought that his role in Guyana would have been explained to him. The former Home Affairs Minister said that it is now incumbent upon the government to have a full investigation into Sittlington’s role with SOCU and his actions in Guyana. Teixeira also repeated claims that Sittlington and the UK High Commissioner, Gre-
British Fraud Expert Sam Sittlington gory Quinn were at a function at the Oasis Café one day after a number of opposition members were arrested, among them former President Bharrat Jagdeo. Sittlington had previously stated that he was indeed at the Oasis Café where he was hosting a function after his contract had ended and he was leaving Guyana. The PPP/C is contending that Quinn had stated that Sittlington was never at the Café. Teixeira went further. She said that based on information received by the PPP/C Quinn was at the ‘celebratory’ activity at the café; the British Envoy has said repeatedly that he was never at the café.
When Teixeira was asked if any security footage was seen or sought from the café she said that that is the work for journalists and they should ventilate this. She said that she is going by the statement made by the Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, who she alleges has admitted that Sittlington and other members of the British High Commission was present at that function. Teixeira said that she is hopeful that with the President’s proclivity for COI that he will see the need to have one to look at the matter involving Sittlington and the actual role he played at SOCU during the time he was in Guyana.
PAGE 12
Kaieteur News
Thursday March 30, 2017
East Demerara planters protest GuySuCo cane-cutting orders Several cane planters from the East Demerara estates protested on Tuesday over a reported plan to have them involved in harvesting activities. This development would come a week after 40-odd planters from Enmore estate re-visited the Head Office of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) and related that the management of the estate is demanding that they undertake cane-cutting tasks. The planters are not accepting the move from the cash-strapped Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) as they are insisting that they are substantively cane planters, a major difference in the sugar cane industry. According to GAWU, the largest sugar union, it sent a delegation which met with GuySuCo’s Industrial Relations Department and the estate management, last Friday. “That meeting concluded with GuySuCo’s assurance that the planters would be offered alternative work like engagement in the factory, rat baiting, infield weeding, and canal cleaning.” However, the workers, on
their arrival to work Monday morning, claimed that they were, however, advised by the management of the Enmore estate that only cane cutting tasks would be provided to them. “The irate workers, who are employed as planters, felt that a meeting with Minister Keith Scott would be useful to have their grievance aired. The Minister, at short notice, agreed to meet the union’s delegation. At the meeting, six of the planters and the union’s General Secretary, Seepaul Narine, related their issue to the Minister and the Chief Labour, Occupational Safety and Health Officer (CLOSH), Charles Ogle. The Minister at the conclusion of the meeting suggested that an audience be sought with Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, who is responsible for agriculture,” GAWU explained yesterday. GAWU made it clear that this development is strikingly similar to what GuySuCo is doing with the workers of Wales; compelling them to take up work at Uitvlugt estate. “More and more, it seems,
Cane planters during the protest action at Enmore estate yesterday. we are seeing a return of forced labour in the sugar industry. That atrocious system perfected under colonialism, we recall, saw many struggles to dislodge it and gave us several martyrs who serve as a stark reminder of that inhumane system. Such machinations of our modern-day sugar barons are reprehensible and needs to be condemned widely and resisted.” The union noted that the cessation of cane planting, which GuySuCo says is temporary, points to the estate’s possible closure.
“Though no official announcement has been made, it is becoming clearer that the Government’s proposals to close Enmore estate and Rose Hall Estate and to sell-out Skeldon estate, is becoming more and more a reality. The workers are against the estate closure as they are very concerned about their employment and their families’ well-being.” GAWU said that workers have pointed out that job opportunities are scarce, if not non-existent, and closure will fill their lives with uncertainty and misery.
”At this time, while Prime Minister Mos e s Nagamootoo is saying that sugar will never die, we are seeing more and more efforts by the administration, of which he is a high-ranking official, taking measures which are not in keeping with what the PM said would not happen. While some persons may fall for such utterances, another reality is staring sugar workers in their faces. It is a sad reality.” GuySuCo is facing major cash problems, made worse from falling production and aging factories. A new factory at Skeldon,
Berbice, which saw US$200M being spent, has failed to fire. Wales factory, on the West Bank of Demerara, was closed last December by the Coalition Government for becoming too inefficient after a century in operation. GuySuCo can barely pay its creditors with government forced to step in and pay a number of large loans. Consecutive governments, facing a political fallout from 16,000 workers on the breadline, have been stepping in and disbursing cash bailouts to the tune of billions of dollars annually, a situation which has been a major drain on the treasury.
Parolees staying out of prison
Director of Prisons {ag) Gladwin Samuels Acting Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels, has said that prisoners who are released on parole are staying out of prison. He said the Parole Board continues to play a key role in rehabilitating and reintegrating prisoners back into society. In an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Samuels noted that 19 prisoners were released on parole in 2016 after their reviews were given
favourable consideration by the Parole Board. Those released included both men and women. Samuels noted that none of the prisoners released on parole has returned to the prison system. Samuels explained that the Board would evaluate prisoners who are eligible for parole. “Coming out of that, the necessary assessment and further evaluation will be Continued on page 23
Thursday March 30, 2017
PAGE 21
Kaieteur News
‘No turning back’: PM May triggers ‘historic’ Brexit (Reuters) Prime Minister Theresa May formally began Britain’s divorce from the European Union yesterday, declaring there was no turning back and ushering in a tortuous exit process that will test the bloc’s cohesion and pitch her country into the unknown. In one of the most significant steps by a British leader since World War Two, May notified EU Council President Donald Tusk in a hand-delivered letter that Britain would quit the club it joined in 1973. “The United Kingdom is leaving the European Union,” May told parliament nine months after Britain shocked investors and world leaders by unexpectedly voting to quit the bloc. “This is an historic moment from which there can be no turning back.” The prime minister, an initial opponent of Brexit who won the top job in the political turmoil that followed the referendum vote, now has two years to negotiate the terms of the divorce before it comes into effect in late March 2019. May, 60, has one of the toughest jobs of any recent British prime minister: holding
British PM Theresa May in the cabinet office signs the official letter. (REUTERS/Christopher Furlong/Pool) Britain’s permanent representative to the European Union Tim Barrow delivers PM May’s Brexit letter to EU Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels, Belgium yesterday. (REUTERS/Yves Herman) Britain together in the face of renewed Scottish independence demands, while conducting arduous talks with 27 other EU states on finance, trade, security and other complex issues. The outcome of the negotiations will shape the future of Britain’s $2.6 tril-
lion economy, the world’s fifth biggest, and determine whether London can keep its place as one of the top two global financial centers. For the EU, already reeling from successive crises over debt and refugees, the loss of Britain is the biggest
blow yet to 60 years of efforts to forge European unity in the wake of two world wars. Its leaders say they do not want to punish Britain. But with nationalist, anti-EU parties on the rise across Europe, they cannot afford to give London generous terms
that might encourage other member states to break away. BREXIT DEAL? May’s notice of the UK’s intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU’s Lisbon Treaty was hand-delivered to Tusk in Brussels by Tim Barrow, Britain’s permanent representative to the EU, on the top floor of the new Europa Building in Brussels, according to a Reuters photographer in the room.
That moment formally set the clock ticking on Britain’s two-year exit process. Sterling, which has lost 25 cents against the dollar since the June 23 referendum, jumped to $1.25. May signed the 6-page Brexit letter on Tuesday night, pictured alone at the cabinet table beneath a clock, a British flag and an oil-painting of Britain’s first prime minister, Robert Walpole.
PAGE 22
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Contract hire car to work @ GR Taxi. Contact Ganesh: 6146202
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Investors for mining land in the Mazaruni Area. Call: 6728844
Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
We pay in USD for residential house lots, all legal fees taken care of. Call: 684-5822/6292881.
House & Land available for sale. Contact Pacific Development Inc @ Lot 3 Church Street, G/Town. Call: 223-6035/227-8274
One Chief Security officer to head a security operation in the hinterland. Good Pay. Call: 696-9386
1 Part-time Technician must be knowledgeable about computer networking (LAN & WAN), Wi-Fi, routers & Ubiquiti devices. Call: 6619447/648-6292
Tuschen: 2 storey building, 2031 ft2 - $9.8M Negotiable. Tel: 231-9690 (During working hrs). Parfaite Harmonie: 2 storey building, 1245 ft2 - $9M Negotiable. Tel: 231-9690 (During working hrs).
Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, video games & repairs – Call: 672-2566; 265-3231 New Portable Massage chair with free carry case$42,000.Call:227-1939 New Portable Massage table with free carry case$58,000.Call:227-1939. One Ford Van E350, one Toyota Tundra, One Caterpillar back hoe 4x4, one bobcat Tel: 660-2212
Design & Make Aluminum windows, doors, stainless rails, showcases, rolling shutters, make & install automatic doors. Call: 2336818/677-5599/659-9999 1 Big music set for sale, owner migrating - urgent sale price $350,000- Call: 690-5225 Gold and Diamond land @ Berbice River and Ekerou top side- Call: 600-0036 or 223-1273 Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc. Call:225-9032;647-2943;604-5198
ACCOMMODATION Harmony Inn: Furnished self contained apartments & rooms from $20USD daily. Call: 218-1400/ 694-7817
2 Bedroom Executive furnished Apartment in residential Area, close to Ogle Airport with all modern amenities.Call:622-5725/6641070 Apartment for rent at Lot 656 Diamond, 4th Avenue, E.B.D: 2 bedrooms with AC. Call 2164563/685-1640. Three storey 75ftX30ft concrete building, open floors, two offices, two washrooms, driveway @ 25B Princes St., Charlestown. Call: 223-0654/225-0605 Fully furnished three bedrooms, top flat, opposite Georgetown Hospital School of Nursing. Call: 225-3756/ 662-0973 1-One bedroom located at ‘C’ Field Turkeyen, preferably, single person. Contact Lisa: 697-8867 1-2 Bedroom house in Lamaha Gardens $1000US monthly. 1-2 bedrooms apartment @ Lyng Street Charlestown -$50,000 monthly. Call: 231-4681/6945000 Sisher Realtors: if you want to sell, buy or rent. Contact us: 694-5000/231-4681 Bedroom apartment for rent (working couple). Call: 6642861
1 Double twin steer Atkinson Truck. Call: 684-2708
House for sale @ South Ruimveldt Gardens -$26M. Call: 642-9855
Cleaners, water truck driver $30,000 weekly, to work on W.C.D. Call: 684-8231 ACCOMMODATION Secret Villa apartments fully furnished, hot & cold water, Jacuzzi, air condition from $20USD daily. Call: 225-6337/ 266-5244/668-0306
Kobelco 210, Perkins 4 CYL, Yangdong 4CYL, Miller Welder, HondaATV, asking -$18,000,000. Call: 651-4699/ 677-8104
1 Twin Steer Leyland DAF dump truck, GMM6584 & for flat beds Leyland DAF lorries. Call: 649-8449
If you are selling your land in Eccles, Herstelling or anywhere. Call Duncan: 677-4092
One female to prepare cutters live in or live out Georgetown. Call/Whatsapp: 673-9283
CAR RENTAL
FOR SALE
Urgently needed investor to invest in gold purchasing in the Interior. Call: 658-7553 Live in female supervisor with secondary education @ bar shop 25-35yrs, waitress, salary $80,000 monthly. Call: 610-3974
Accounts Clerk for Eccles, Industrial Site area knowledge of NIS, PAYE, VAT, QuickBooks. Call: 6144358
SALON
Live in or live out waitress. Call: 643-9007/ 666-4647
Cook/Baker and Kitchen Assistant for interior location. Applicants must be experienced, for details call: 618-2020
One salon assistant must know to cornrow. Call: 6222643/ 225-8701 HEALTH
TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
Thursday March 30, 2017
Kaieteur News
PEN PAL
LEARN TO DRIVE C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj BuildingCall: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 (affordable packages).
Decent Elderly Indian Christian widow is seeking honest respectful widower. Please no block numbers, no messages. Call: 678-1110 Caring female for a mature gentleman, age 37-55. Contact Mr. Other, Heskey Mount, 92-96 Lord Street, PR8 1JR, England. Continued on page 23
Thursday March 30, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Orealla residents call for audit of village books Residents of Orealla are asking for an audit of the books at the Village Council. They claim that village funds and other resources are being misused. They also want the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs to look into the legitimacy of the land title they received under the previous administration. Vice President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock; Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Alfred King; and Project Coordinator, Jude DaSilva; visited the community over the weekend, to listen to the concerns of the residents, a government statement said. According to Toshao of the village, David Henry, they received a letter from the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission informing them that there are no records of the village being surveyed for demarcation. The Toshao, however, said that the community is in receipt of a land title document which it received from the previous administration. He said the matter is affecting the livelihood of the residents who are involved in logging in a significant way. “Our workers would have harvested logs and those logs were detained for over a year and they deteriorate. Forestry released those logs, but still holds back 35 percent. When those issues clear up then we will get back the 35 percent,” David explained. Minister Allicock said that the ministry will make representation on the Community’s behalf, to address the issue of the land title. Responding to the residents call for an audit, Minister Allicock explained that
Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock that the Ministry is in the process of auditing all 215 Hinterland communities and villages. However, due to the limited number of persons qualified to conduct the audits, the process is taking some time. He also said that it is costly to do the audits. The minister reminded the residents that they too have a responsibility to do checks and balances to keep the affairs of the village in order. Pointing to gaps in the village administration, the Toshao said that there are four councillors who are not functioning. One of the councilors resigned and three are on scholarships attending the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA). This is affecting the administration of the village, he said. Minister Allicock said that those councillors cannot be replaced immediately because there is a process that has to be followed. However, he
urged the village council to make a temporary arrangement so that the work of the council can continue. Minister Allicock reminded the community that Orealla was one of the richest Indigenous communities in Guyana. It provided timber to the Barama Company. The minister urged the community to come together and explore all avenues and create viable proposals, in order to get support for projects that will see the community getting back to where it once was economically. Minister Allicock noted that the government is in the process of developing a more strategic framework that would integrate all communities into mainstream development. “Our PS (Permanent Secretary) will know what other PSs have planned so that we will be able to support each other in the development of the country and moreso to give support to communities
in the areas of health, security, education, infrastructure and business,” Minister Allicock explained. Meanwhile, the residents are calling for the development of its human resources which will see them fully tapping into the rich resources available within the community. They are also asking for a secondary school for the community and to be part of the consultative process on the review of the Amerindian Act of 2006. The newly reassigned Permanent Secretary, Alfred King, explained that there are several things that must be considered before constructing a secondary school. These include, the number of secondary age students and recruiting trained teachers to deliver quality teaching to the students. “You need to talk about how do you build, sustain and operate the school in terms of the physical structure, is it economically sound given that we are in close proximity to mainstream life where there are secondary schools.” King told the residents. He urged them to make a proposal and if it is ‘doable’, representation will be made on their behalf. Orealla or Orealla Mission and its sister community, Siparuta, are two Indigenous communities located on the Corentyne Coast, Region Six that overlook neighbouring Suriname.. These communities are managed by one Council and together they have a population of over 3000 persons. The communities are sustained through the collection of royalty for sand and logs, supported by traditional farming, fishing and hunting activities.
Nursing educators cannot be blamed for downfall of system...
From page 11 “the Georgetown School only had one projector that went from class to class from morning till night; eventually it broke down. To date the only projector given through the Ministry was one that came in the form of a donation...” According to Barkoye, the nursing school has existed on donations of text-
books and other teachinglearning material from kind nurses who reside abroad and other organisations. “The Ministry has only bought one set of texts, I will not say the number. Although grateful this was not enough to teach 500 students then and not sufficient for the 347 students now in 13 different classes across three programme,” Barkoye as-
serted. But the nursing educator has underscored that “...this is not even half of the issues nurse educators face every day.” She however noted that “the nurse educators do not ask for sympathy only staff and materials promptly to do the best job. It is time the policymakers step up to the table and play
a fair game.” Given the forgoing challenges outlined, Barkoye assured that the nursing educators, both full time and part time, are hard-working in their quest to prepare “a professional group of nurses who are capable of delivering comprehensive nursing care to individuals, families and groups in institutional and non-institutional settings.”
Parolees staying out of prison From page 12 done and necessary recommendations will be forwarded to the minister in terms of those persons who are deemed eligible for release,” Samuels explained. According to Samuels, the parole system has very stringent criteria which must be taken into consideration before any prisoner is considered eligible for parole (release). Some of the factors
to be examined by the Board include prisoners’ behaviour, attitude, work ethic and the type of offenses for which they were convicted. One of the most important criterion for being eligible for parole, the Prison’s Director pointed out is that the victims’ families must be informed if any convict will be released and potential risk they may pose to society. “For those capital
offenders who would have murdered, a relative of (the victim) is contacted to see how the release of the person on parole might affect them,” Samuels stated. Samuels emphasized that once the parole board has reason to believe that the prisoner has not fully met the criteria, that prisoner will not be considered favorably for parole. The current parole board
consists of five members; Carl Hanoman, Justice Duke Pollard, Yvonne HeywoodBenn, Merle Mendonca and Justice James Patterson. The board upon review to ensure that the convicted prisoner has met the criteria makes the decision whether an offender should be released from prison after serving at least 12 months or one-third of their sentence term.
From page 22
PEN PAL Indian Male seeks female age 27/34 write to M.D 7475 Goreway DR #47Mississauga on L4T 3T3, Canada.
VEHICLE FOR SALE 1-Leyland DAF GRR Series; excellent condition. Call: 6804101 Dwayne Stephen Auto Sales! New Shipment of Vehicle: Rush, Blue Bird, Note, Axio, Allion. Call: 6652330/ 648-6869
TOURS Rodeo, Lethem Rodeo, Brazil, Falls and sightseeing, April 13- 17th. Call: 665-5171, 6392663, 223-7589,658-3758,6732348
Not working Vehicles: 1 Surf, 2 Pathfinders, 1 Bobcat, 3 Toyota Cars, 1 Canter, 1 Fiber glass boat. Call: 227-4377/ 624-6013 RZ Minibus- $850,000 negotiable. Call: 697-2550/ 613-1810 Allion, Primo, Fielder Wagon, Spacio, Bluebird, 212 Carina, NZE, Honda CRV, Toyota IST, RZ & Pit-bull – Call: 650-7501 Toyota Vigo pickup -$3.5M and Nissan Pathfinder Jeep $1.5M negotiable. Call: 6097766/ 225-8427 (must be sold)
LAND FOR SALE 1 Lot of land @ Yarrowkabra -$950,000. Call: 672-5876 Transported land for sale size 37X270 @ Coglan Dam, Vreed-en-Hoop, W.B.D. Call: 650-5644/677-9938 1 Transported land in Tuschen Phase 1 -$2M, Tuschen Phase 2 - $1.4M, La ParfaiteHarmonie (main road) -$2M, La ParfaiteHarmonie $1.4M. Call: 642-1252 Bartica - $3M, Uitvlugt (100ftX50ft) - $3M, Farm$3M, Herstelling (4th Bridge - $3M). Call: 677-4092 Farm (East Bank) -$3M, Providence (New Scheme) $5M, Herstelling -$3M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.6M. Call: 684-5822/ 629-2881 La Parfaite Harmonie - $1.6M, $1.4M, $1.3M, Tuschen Phase II -$1.2M, Uitvlugt $2M. Call: 614-6802 La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.8M, $1.6M, $1.4M, Tuschen Phase II -$1.3, Uitvlugt -$2M, New Road V/Hoop -$27M. Call: 604-6724 Diamond Scheme ( 2 nd Avenue), Eccles Scheme (middle) negotiable. Call: 6097766/225-8427 (must be sold)
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Kaieteur News
Thursday March 30, 2017
C’bean countries participate in study on impact of financial stability reports WASHINGTON (CMC) – A new study analysing the quality or impact of financial stability reports in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) has found that while the quality varies across countries, they do not comply fully with the established criteria. The study, titled “Financial Stability Reports in Latin America and the Caribbean,” forms part of the working papers of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and released here on Tuesday. The study examined financial stability reports issued in 2015 by the Central Banks of Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and the Bahamas and the 2016 reports of several Latin American countries including Mexico, Panama, Argentina and Chile among other countries. According to the study, over the past few years, financial stability reports (FSRs) have become a common and regular feature of financial communication in the LAC yet, still little is known about their quality or
impact. It noted that FSRs are an important c o m m u n i c a t i o n tool to enhance the public’s understanding of the financial system. “They provide investors, savers, and the general public a framework to articulate the authorities’ strategy to strengthen the resilience of the financial system and facilitate its long-term development. Used effectively, FSRs can build credibility and confidence in the authorities’ surveillance role and policy framework.” The authors said that the study adopted a systematic approach to assess the quality of FSRs evaluating the quality of the reports on the basis of 26 characteristics covering five broad elements, such as the clarity of aims, q u a l i t y o f t h e o v e rall assessment, coverage of issues, data, assumptions and tools, and effectiveness of structure. “On the basis of this assessment, this study has found that the quality of FSRs in LAC countries varies significantly across
countries. Some reports are done well with strong analys i s o f r i s k s a n d vulnerabilities while others are lacking in several areas; however, no report complies fully with the established criteria”. It also found that although the data are only partly comparable, the quality of FSRs in LAC countries appears in line with the average quality of emerging market FSRs assessed in Cihak and others, which were
considered, on average, worse than those issued by advanced economies, but better than those issued by low-income countries. “In general, countries with higher GDP (gross domestic product), higher income per capita, and lower external de b t t e n d t o publish better reports. The quality of the reports is also positively correlated with the size of the financial sector, and is, in general, higher in
countries with flexible exchange rates and an inflation targeting framework. Reports issued by central banks score better than those issued by other supervisory agencies.” The study found that only eight out of 20 reports explicitly declare their aims and objectives, and only seven provide a definition of financial stability. “The aims typically focus on identifying risks and mitigating policies, but may also include an explicit concern to inform stakeholders, and, in some cases, to foster a discussion or provide policy guidance,” the study noted without naming any individual country. The reports’ overall assessment of the financial system varies in quality but is generally descriptive and backward-looking and does not clearly point out potential or emerging risks. “While some reports do touch on key issues relevant for the country, the discussion is usually limited to a review of quantitative indicators or financial ratios,
with little forward-looking analysis of emerging challenges or opportunities in the financial system. “Few reports mention in what direction risks have changed since the previous report, and they do not elaborate on how and why. Stress tests analysis typically conclude with general statements about the adequacy of capital in the financial system, and readers are left with having to “read between the lines” about the resilience of the financial system.” The study also noted no report covers the full range of financial system institutions such as insurance, shadow banks, pension funds, financial markets, and few reports identify and analyze systemically important risks and follow up on them across subsequent issues. The report on the study outlined a number of recommendations, noting that while there are low hanging fruits, other changes will require additional effort and resources, and the commitment on the part of the authorities to make improving FSRs a priority.
Thursday March 30, 2017
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Kaieteur News
GWI commissions wells - one at Silver Hill, Waiakabra. By Enid Joaquin Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) yesterday commissioned two wells on the Soesdyke / Linden Highway--one at Silver Hill and the other at Waiakabra, several miles away. The commissioning of the wells has now brought potable water to these two communities for the very first time. The well at Waiakabra reportedly costs some $51M while the other at Silver Hill was done at negligible cost by contractor Andrea Webb, according to GWI Director of Project Implementation Ramchand Jailall. Jailall said that the cost to establish the well at Silver Hill was “negligible”, as GWI had made an open call to contractors. We b b r e s p o n d e d a n d drilled the well free of cost. He also built the trestle for the tanks. GWI provided the pump and other amenities, which would have amounted to some $1.1M according to Jailall. Chief Executive Officer of GWI Richard Van West Charles in an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News said that the CDC of Silver Hill had written GWI about a year ago regarding the possibility of getting po-
table water to the community. “’So we tried to see how best we could respond. We met with residents on both sides of the highway and they agreed that if we placed (the well) here, they would have no difficulty coming over here to get their water, because we explained to them that it would have been difficult to get the lines across the Highway. We engaged a contractor who agreed to do all the drilling, and we put the entire infrastructure.” Van West Charles said that the particular location at Silver hill was chosen, to ensure that the water is connected to the school and health centre, which are both situated in proximity to the well. He noted, too, that a number of standpipes were also placed throughout the community. “You know previously the highway was like noman’s land, so after I came on board I ensured that the boundaries of GWI’s operations are in line with regional boundaries.” A number of communities along the highway were g i v e n w a t e r, Va n We s t Charles said. However there are still other commu-
nities that are unserved such as Adventure, Long Creek and Kairuni. These have been in touch with GWI with regards to the supply of potable water.The CEO promised that a solution would be found for all those communities. R e g i o n a l M a n a g e r, Rawle Friday, said that GWI is currently looking at expansion and so will be looking at all ‘pockets’of areas where persons are residing, and are without potable water. Junior Minister within the Ministry of communities Dawn Hastings in her feature address applauded the Silver Hill CDC, who she noted were instrumental in having the well established “Today, the Ministry of Communities through GWI, is delivering safe potable water to Silver Hill. During the past 45 years residents had to pool their monies and pay private persons to pump and deliver water to their homes, because water is
very essential. However, not anymoreas from yesterday the residents of Silverhill, the primary school and the health post, will be receiving safe potable water, and that is what the APNU/AFC had promised during their elections campaign- a good life for all Guyanese. Hastings commended the GWI team, including CEO Dr. Van West Charles. National Director of Community Development Councils (CDC’s) Eugene Gilbert called the project a small one with a big impact, and emphasized the importance of community development or any grass root based organization taking action in their own development. He noted that Silver Hill is an unserved area as it does not fall within the Neighborhood Democratic Council, but that the people had taken their “lives’ interest’’ in their hands and established themselves as a community development council (CDC). He explained that
C D C ’s a r e n o t e l e c t e d bodies of government, but are really volunteer-based, grassroot based organizations where people take their interest in their own hands and make requisite representations for the development of their respective communities. Gilbert said that what happened at Silver Hill is a “fantastic model” of what can happen across Guyana. The government cannot do everything for everybody, he said. Chairman of Region Ten, Renis Morian, applauded the residents of Silver Hill for their strong advocacy in making the establishment of the well a possibility. Morian said that potable water is a fun-
damental right of humanity. He alluded to what was said by President Granger during his campaign. The fundamental rights of all Guyanese are not just guaranteed but should be implemented! He added that when he arrived at Silver Hill and realized that water will be running in the community, he acknowledged that “we’re on the move.” Morian further encouraged the residents to push for facilities for young people that would help to prevent their involvement in deviant behavior. Several residents of both Silver Hill and Waiakabra expressed gratitude to GWI for their intervention.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday March 30, 2017
Thursday March 30, 2017
Jeffreys’ confirmation an additional boost for Sunday This Sunday’s Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) ‘National Race of Champions’ Meet, yesterday received an additional boost with the confirmation of father and son duo of Kevin and Kristian Jeffrey. The two outstanding racers presence alone will certainly ignite interest in the event, while also erasing the previous uncertainty of their participation following the announcement of their participation by Kevin via telephone. The younger Jeffrey, Kristian is a huge crowd favourite who has developed into one of the most exciting drivers of his generation in the Caribbean. The two-time Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) champion has transferred his success to the local
arting Series and the Suzuki Challenge Series SR3 Winter Cup, being crowned champion in both events so he is in good form and should be rearing to get into action in front of the large fan base that he has. Both Kevin and Kristian are assuring fans that despite the close biological connections, they will race hard against each other and any other competition that takes to the starting grid. When quizzed about preparations, Kevin said they are currently working overtime on the cars and guaranteed that they will be ready come Sunday to entertain the fans. Kristian, drives a Mitsubishi Evolution VIII, which had dominated the Region for over two years, before relinquishing the crown to Jamaican Doug Gore
last year, and he will be looking to send a strong message to his Caribbean rivals ahead of the season opening Meet in Jamaica. However, Kevin has been known to produce some daredevil drives and counting him out might be a bit premature and reckless. Kevin drives a Mitsubishi Evolution VII, but is known to have done some amount of modification to the machine to increase its speed and reliability to compete against the best in the Caribbean so it will be interesting to see how their duel unfolds. Whatever the outcome, fans will be in for a treat so be early and occupy an advantageous spot to witness the rivalry first hand.
Thursday March 30, 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Follow your gut feeling regarding your business ventures. Emotionally, things may not run so smoothly. Take the day to relax and pamper yourself.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Money problems will be difficult to deal with if you have a partner. Travel could turn out to be more exciting than you imagined. Look into some personal changes.
AURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) You will gain new friends if you get involved in environmental issues. Strengthen your position among your peers.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your position may be in question if you haven't been pulling your weight. Help elders with their concerns.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Your ability to dazzle others with your unique and innovative ideas will attract attention. You may find out that someone has not been completely honest with you. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Be cautious while traveling to foreign countries. You will be prone to carelessness that could result in accidents. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) This is not the best time to take a risk, to gamble or spend money you really can't afford to part with. Your contributions will be valued and helpful. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Deep discussions may only lead to friction. Your concern with older family members and those less fortunate than yourself will only add to your attractiveness.
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Kaieteur News
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You may find your mate somewhat perturbed. Don't be a pest or a troublemaker today. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You can write beautiful love letters today. Stop telling others about your problems. Things are looking good for you, so open your eyes and get to it. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Don't even bother trying to get their approval on the things you want to do. Social functions will bring you in touch with new lovers. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Your personal partner may be less than willing to accommodate you today. Friends or groups that you're affiliated with may want you to contribute more cash than you can really afford.
Sparta Boss love/hate relationship with... From page 27 West Back Road versus North East La Penitence North East La Penitence could qualify with a w i n , w h i l s t We s t B a c k Road will have to rely on other results and a huge win to improve their chance of going further. Group-C Albouystown versus Broad Street is more formality than anything else with the latter favourites to win this encounter and join the race for a third
place qualifier. Bent Street versus Sophia is another blockbuster matchup that is expected to produce fireworks. Sophia’s unbeaten run has sealed their berth n the next phase, but defending champs Bent Street cannot afford a slipup which if it happens can put them in a difficult position. What is certain another huge turnout and some enthralling battles throughout the night.
Below are the fixtures for this evening: 19:30 hrs Agricola Champion Boys vs. Back Circle 20:15 hrs West Back Road vs. North East La Penitence 21:00 hrs Broad Street Bullies vs. Albouystown 21:45 hrs West Front Road vs. Tucville 22:30 hrs Bent Street vs. Sophia 23:15 hrs Sparta Boss vs. Tiger Bay
PAGE 28
Thursday March 30, 2017
Kaieteur News
Several entities assist Rose Karim, Madoo spur Rosignol to Hall Town Youth & Sports Club victory, Bush Lot beat Belladrum The efforts of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, to get youths to stay off drugs and alcohol received major boost when several Government Ministries and business entities on Friday last made contributions. The Club and its eight cricket teams - Rose Hall Town Farfan & Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Female, Gizmos & Gadgets Under-21 and First Division on an annual basis organises a massive and highly successful Say No/ Say Yes Campaign that targets 60,000 youths in Berbice. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and the Office of the Prime Minister donated a cartoon consisting of 24 trophies and several cricket medals, while Minister Winston Jordan and the Ministry of Finance made a financial donation to the Campaign. The Club also received financial contribution from the Guyana Geology and Mining Commission (GGMC), Caribbean Container Inc (CCI) and Bakewell. The Cricket Teams of the Club also received a
large donation of medical supplies for their first aid kit. Secretary/CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Hilbert Foster disclosed that the trophies from the Office of the Prime Minister would be used to host every sporting and educational events which would promote the Say No/Say Yes messages, while Bakewell, Ministry of Finance and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission financial contributions were used to purchase another cartoon of trophies for the 27th Annual Award Ceremony. The Management of Caribbean Container Inc under the leadership of CEO Patricia Bacchus also contributed financially towards the purchasing of two cricket bats for practice sessions by junior cricketers. The donation of the medical supplies from Mike’s Pharmacy would enable the club to treat any form of external injuries suffered by members during practice and matches. The Club, Foster stated, would like to express profound gratitude to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Fi-
nance Minister Winston Jordan, CCI CEO Patricia Bacchus, Bakewell Managing Director Rajin Ganga and the Commissioner General of the GGMC. Meanwhile, the Management of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, has announced that plans for the 27th Annual Award Ceremony are processing well in advance. A total of 74 club members, retired teachers, Teachers of the Year, outstanding Law Officers and members of the Lower Corentyne Secondary School Under-17 Cricket Team would be honoured. Fifteen outstanding Guyanese would also be honoured for their outstanding contribution to the development of Guyana. The Club would also be unveiling a new programme in honour of its Patron His Excellency, President David Granger during the Awards Ceremony. Under the programme, which would be known as “The Patron’s Outreach Project”, two schools and two churches would receive a collection of items including computers, printers and microwave among others.
A fine century by Javid Karim coupled by a fivewicket haul from Chris Madoo handed Rosignol a 103-run victory over Woodley Park when the West Berbice Cricket Association Republic Bank D’Edward branch inter secondary schools T20 competition commenced recently. Playing at Blairmont Centre ground, Karim struck eight fours and seven sixes in scoring 112 and got support from Lochan Hughes 94 (4x6,5x6) as Rosignol posted 221 without lost, batting first. Woodley Park were skittled for 17 in reply as Madoo bagged 5-6. At Bush Lot, the home team Beat Belladrum by 42 runs. Batting first, Bush Lot scored145 for 6. Marvan Prashad hit 60 and Christopher Harry 15; Kurtis Mascall had 3-2. Belladrum in reply made 103 all out in 14.2 overs. Vikash Singh got 21 Quncy Aulder 16 and Freston Noble 14. Bowling for Bush Lot Christopher Harry, Shahid Baksh and Prashad took two wickets each.
Javid Karim
GFF PRESIDENT SAYS LINDEN TO HOST MORE INTERNATIONALS IN 2017 Georgetown: Guyana Football Federation President Wayne Forde yesterday said Linden can host more international football matches in 2017, paying tribute to the Linden community for its hard work in staging its first international football fixture since 2011 after this week’s sell-out clash with Martinique. The Golden Jaguars fought bravely against a strong Martinique team that is preparing for its fifth CONCACAF Gold Cup appearance, with Tuesday’s match ending in a compelling scoreless draw at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground. “We believe Linden is the right place to host more home international matches in 2017, and last night was a great example of what football should feel like for the fans,” said President Forde. “Of course, there is some work to do to improve on what was achieved last night, but we have every faith that we can make Linden a premier venue for football in Guyana once again.” The GFF has pledged to stage senior men’s international games in each FIFA window throughout the year, in order to give the squad the exposure it needs to develop and to perform more effectively in regional competitions.
The large and supportive crowd at the MSC ground Tuesday night.
The match, under the patronage of Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland, brought together the entire Linden community in preparing for Guyana’s first international match of 2017. “The Linden community made Guyana proud on Tuesday night,” said GFF President Wayne Forde. “It was
wonderful to see international football return to the legendary MSC Ground, and to see the venue packed with fans – there was an electrifying atmosphere.” “I want to say thank you to the whole of Linden for making the game against Martinique a night to remember, with a special mention to
the Mayor of Linden Carwyn Holland, the Mackenzie Sports Club, the Upper Demerara Football Association and, of course, all the passionate fans that came out to support the Golden Jaguars.” The Executive Committee of the GFF is eager to help revitalise football in Linden
and to restore the brand of football across the country to increase fan engagement and to attract more private sector support for the game. “Football has the power to provide an economic boost to communities, and we hope that the staging of further international fixtures in Linden will benefit the
business community as well as the development of football in the area,” Forde said. There are four more FIFA windows for official or friendly international fixtures remaining in 2017. The GFF will announce plans for further senior men’s international games in due course.
Thursday March 30, 2017
South Ruimveldt Secondary triumph
The victorious South Ruimveldt Secondary school side with Director of Sport Christopher Jones. South Ruimveldt won the Ministry of Education National Sports Commission second annual Janet Jagan Memorial Secondary Schools Windball tournament played at the National Gymnasium recently. South Ruimveldt defeated Diamond Secondary
in the final played under lights. Diamond Secondary batted first and made 66-3 with Mileshwaree Gorakh scoring 30 and Asheanna Alli 22. Bowling for South Ruimveldt Precious Johnson took 2-14. South responded with 68-1. Abigale Waddle got
40 and Joyann Schultz 10. Carmel Secondary beat Xenon Academy by 10 wickets in the third place play off. Xenon Academy took first strike and scored 71-1. Rebecca Isaac hit 44 and Sonyra Ganesh 10. Carmel Secondary replied with 73 without loss. Indera Amerieo
made 36, Siana Abrams 27. South Ruimveldt overcame Carmel Secondary and Diamond beat Xenon Academy in the semi finals. Sixteen schools participated in the two-day competition drawn from West Demerara, East Bank Demerara & Georgetown.
Petra Organisation/GT Beer Futsal Competition
Sparta Boss love/hate relationship with fans on display tonight
Action in one of the earlier competition games between Broad Street and Bent Street. Sparta Boss love/hate relationship with fans will be on full put on view this evening when they face Tiger Bay in a must win encounter to guarantee a place in the quarterfinal of the Petra Organisation/GT Beer Futsal Competition. Reputed to be the best team in the small goal format both in the streets and closed door, Sparta Boss despite fielding one of the strongest teams on paper have not looked as unbeatable as they usually are and will have to recapture that quality if they are to move on. Stacked with players the
calibre of Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, Devon Millington, Sheldon Shepherd and Solomon Austin, the unit has not displayed the usual smoothness and deadly accuracy that they are known for with a narrow win and a loss against Agricola Champion Boys and Back Circle to show for their efforts to date. On the other hand, Tiger Bay opened with an impressive come from behind draw against Back Circle, before raising their level to register a morale boosting 3-2 triumph over Agricola Champion Boys. A draw will be enough for
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Kaieteur News
them to secure a spot in the next phase, while a loss will most certainly leave them clinging for one of the two best third place finishers. Deon Alfred, Alpha Fletchman, and Mario Batson form a formidable attacking force and they will be hard to contain. It promises to be a sizzling affair and one for the fans to see. In the other Group A Clash, Back Circle go up against Agricola Champion Boys in another fixture that has generated great interest. Back Circle has been without their influential leader
Andy Duke and has opted for a much younger side that is playing unbelievably good football. Selwyn Williams, Stephon McLean and Sylvester Richardson are the lynchpin of their attack, while Agricola will be led by Delray Dodson. In Group-B In the West Front Road versus Tucville affair, the former West Front Road has virtually qualified for the next phase and even a loss would not affect their chances while a win for Tucville could open the door for their qualification. (Continued on page 25)
Preparation intensifies for Guyana Cup Fever Horserace meet as over 35 entered so far Wi t h j u s t o v e r t w o weeks to go before race day all of the top stables in the country are on board for the upcoming Guyana Cup Fever 2017 horserace meet, set for Sunday 16th April at the Port Mourant Turf Club, Port Mourant, Corentyne Berbice. The event is organised by the Jumbo Jet Auto sales and racing stables in collaboration with the Port Mourant Turf Club. A number of companies are already on board including Banks DIH Limited, Trophy Stall and the Jumbo Jet business Conglomerate. According to organiser Nazrudeen Jumb Jet Mohammed jr, a number of top stables which include the Jumbo Jet, Shariff, Singh, Elcock, Nand Persaud, Bactowar, Habibulla, Bacchus, Jagdeo and Mahaicony among others are in full flight with their training. Eight races are listed for the day with over $8M in cash, trophies and other incentives up for grabs. The feature event remains for horses classified B1 and Lower for a winning take of $1M over 1900M. The E1 and lower We s t I n d i e s b r e d n o n earners for 2016 and 2017 and E3 US and Canadian bred non earners for 2016 and 2017 over 1200M. The first prize is $600,000 and trophy. The distance is 1200M which is the distance for all the other races. The 4 year old West Indies bred and G3 and lower event will be going for a winner ’s money of
$300,000. There is an event for animals classified H3 and lower for winning money of $275,000 and trophy. Horses classified 3 years old bred and born in Guyana and those classified I 1and lower will be competing for first prize of $225,000 and trophy. There is another three year old event; this time for Guyana bred maiden horses. The winning take is $220,000 and trophy. There will be a race for animals classified J2 and K with the pole position taking worth $175,000 a n d t r o p h y. T h e f i n a l race will see the horses classified L class open galloping for a take home incentive of $130,000 and trophy. So far all of G u y a n a ’s t o p s t a b l e s have indicated their willingness to be a part of the day’s activity. To p h o r s e s , s t a b l e s and jockeys will be awarded with trophies compliments of Ramesh Sunich, of Bourda Market. A number of added attractions and incentives including free kites will be given away on race day. There will also be bouncy castle, trampoline and other attractions for child r e n . Interested persons can contact Chandu Ramkissoon (624-9063 or 608-9063, 232-0633), Jingo Jagdeo on 618-7278, Ramnauth on 697-1979 or 333-5311 or Amernauth on 649-8231. The coordinator is Nazrudeen “Jumbo J e t ” Mohammed Jr. (Samuel Whyte)
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Surujpaul half century boosts Die Hard Vijay Surujpaul struck a half century as Die Hard beat Golden Fleece by 22 runs when the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association/ Digicel tournament continued on Sunday at Perseverance beach on the Essequibo Coast. Surujpaul slammed 66 and got valuable support from Patrick Rooplall with 33 as Die Hard posted 128-5, batting first. Golden Fleece replied with 106-7. G. Singh cracked 42; Richard Latif and Y. Mohamed claimed 2-16 each. Affiance Storm went down to Richmond Warriors by eight wickets. Affiance Storm took first strike and
Thursday March 30, 2017
Kaieteur News
made 101-5 with Ganesh Mangal scoring 33 and Latchman Rohit 30. F. Ali had 2-14. Richmond Warriors responded with 104-2 in 8.5 overs. S. Ahiram struck 50. Adventure SC overcame AK Dealers by 39 runs. Adventure SC took first strike and made 114-7. G. Sharma struck an even half century. J. Baljodha had 2-17. AK Dealers made 75 all out in 9.5 overs in reply. R. Beharry got 26; S. Sarabjeet had 3-12. GT Warriors lost to United Warriors by seven wickets. GT Warriors scored 114-7, taking first strike. D. De Silva made 38. United Warriors
made 119-3 in 8.2 overs in response. B. Mangar hit 42. United Brothers defeated Golden Fleece by 13 runs. United Brothers got 111-9, taking first knock. G. Dean made 15. Golden Fleece responded with 98-6. J. Nandharry hit 32. Invaders Masters beat El Dorado by 10 runs. Invaders Masters managed 93-7. R. Gonsalves hit 21; K. Singh had 4-8. Eldorado were bowled out for 83 in nine overs in reply. Ramesh Narine grabbed 6-4. Devonshire Castle made 169-5, while Fire Station got 105-3 in reply.
Manuel Suarez Weightlifting C/ship…
Matthew Assing clinches three bronze medals
MYO/Trophy Stall Inter- Jamaat 7-a-side Tapeball commences Sunday The Muslim Youth Organization (MYO) of Guyana seven-a-side six overs Inter-Jamaat Tapeball round robin cricket competition sponsored by Trophy Stall will commence on April 2nd at the M.Y.O. ground, Wo o l f o r d Av e n u e , T h o m a s L a n d s , Georgetown. Teams desirable in participating are urged to make contact with the persons below as registration closes today.
In addition to this, starting on April 2nd, The MYO will be holding its annual Bar-BQue and sweet meat sale on the said day. Tickets cost $1,000. Members of the public are encouraged to come out and enjoy some finger licking BarB-Que and watch some entertaining cricket. Teams are asked to make contact with Bro. Imran Ally on 689-7425 or Bro. Azad Ibrahim on 624-3362 for information on registration.
Sinclair, Benjamin leads Berbice... From page 30 Bookie down the ground and clipped him off his pads for six in an over which cost 12 runs. Sinclair danced into 13year-old leg-spinner Daniel Mootoo and on-drove him all along the ground to the Hand-in-Hand advertisement Banner hanging on the fence before Algoo was stumped as Mootoo, who looks a bright prospect, struck at 50-1. Benjamin joined Sinclair and stroked Nedd for four before clobbering Dick over his head for six while S i n c l a i r, a rg u a b l y h i s team’s most accomplished batsman, flicked pacer Qumar Torrington delightfully behind square. Sinclair was in full flow and hit Juspice Jones for a double to wide mid-wicket to reach his 50 from 62 balls and four fours and a six before celebrating by pulling Jones
to the boundary. Another solid stand was being built which was the hall mark of the Berbice innings but when it had reached 55, Sinclair’s top-edged pull went high into the air for the Keeper to hold the offering at 105-2 after the 100 had been posted in 23 overs. The inform Kelvin Anderson (15) was being to settle but after facing 26 balls, he was caught and bowled by Nedd at 147-3 and when Seon Glasgow junior, the son of National Volleyball player Seon Glasgow who played first division cricket for Blairmount SC, was removed by Dick for nine at 150-4 the innings went into decline. Gevon Shultz (7) was run out and Balkishan captured three wickets in five overs as the last six wickets tumbled for 28 runs. When GT/Mahaicony began their chase they quickly lost Bookie, but Williams got
going with a scoop pull for four off of Shultz and stroked Swammy for a couple of imperious boundaries before lofting Anderson over his head for four. But once Wilson edged Umroa to slip where Glasgow held a stupendous catch at 482 and Singh threw his wicket away when he was taken off Umroa at long-on at 64-3, only Balkishan who hammered Glasgow for four to post the 50 in the 12th over and caressed Umroa down the ground for four, offered any resistance. Dick (0) tried to hit the third ball he faced out of the ground and was caught in the deep against the breeze off Deodat, Tameshwar Permaul (2) was bowled by Anderson, Nedd (3) missed an irresponsible sweep at Deodat and was bowled and Nkosie Beaton was run out for a duck and it all over bar the shouting.
Assing and Cozier (coach) after arrival at Cheddi Jagan International Airport last Sunday evening. In what was defined as a spirited display, Guyana’s lone representative at the just concluded Manuel Suarez Weightlifting Championship, Matthew Assing, clinched three bronze medals after registering a commendable total of 170kg. The lad snatched 80kg and jerked an additional 90kg at the Havana, Cuba, staged championships, March 20-26. Cuban, Felix Ugarte, copped the first prize, while Panamanian, Abdiel Batista, finished in second place. Assing was this country’s lone representative after two other qualifiers, Jonathan Ford and distaff participant, Krystal Chandraban, were omitted because of inadequate funds. The team returned to Guyana last Tuesday morning and manager/coach, Sean Cozier said that despite his inability to capture gold,
Assing has procured valuable experience at an international meet which could stand him in good stead for future engagements. “We were very happy to have had the opportunity to participate and score a bit of success,” he reiterated. He also extends gratitude to executive officials of the GAWA for their continued faith in the lifters. “We would also like to thank the Friendship Oxygen Co. and the Guyana Olympic Association for their financial assistance, which contributed to the process,” concluded Cozier. Executives are now eying the World Masters Games scheduled for Auckland, New Zealand, from 20th - 30th April and will immediately commence preparations.
RHTY&SC congratulates Lower Corentyne Secondary School - To honour entire team The Patron, Management and the entire membership of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, is expressing congratulations to the Under17 Cricket Team of the Lower Corentyne Secondary School on winning the National Secondary School Cricket Tournament to become National Champion. In a release the club said it is a remarkable achievement and all at the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, are very proud of the team. ‘The victory is very special to us at Guyana’s leading youth and sports club due to the fact that nine of the Lower Corentyne Secondary
School players are products of our highly successful and productive youth development programme. The players - Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Kristoff Williams, Haresh Fernandes, Chad Munroe, Rudradev Ramoutar, Justin Gobin, Joshua Wilson and Neil Tillaram are proud members of the Club along with Jason Sinclair and Simon Naidu who were part of the team’s Management. Special congrats to Anderson who led the team with his visionary leadership and most importantly by example on and off the cricket field. Justin Gobin for his important innings in the finals, Junior Sinclair for his allround brilliance throughout the To u r n a m e n t , A n d e r s o n for being the Best Bats-
man and Williams for his bowling efforts in the finals deserved special mention. We would also like to applaud the hard work and dedication of Manager Fyzal Moses who was a role model to all of his players and who inspired them to perform to the highest possible standard.’ The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, would like to commit itself to not only assisting the school in the future as we have always done but to continuing to provide players of the highest calib e r. We would be honouring the team at our 27th Annual Awards Ceremony which would be held on the 23rd April, 2017. Each player would receive a championship souvenir while the team would also collect a championship trophy.
Thursday March 30, 2017
Kaieteur News
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Draughts Association donates boards to Shaheed’s boys and girls orphanages Three executives of the Guyana Draughts Association were present last Saturday at the Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage in Alexander Street, Kitty to make presentation of draught boards and pieces to the inmates of that institution. Also present were the female inmates from the Shaheed’s Girls Orphanage in Oleander Gardens E.C.D whom was also presented with boards and pieces. Both of these institutions are owned and administrated by Ms. Raheema Rahaman. Following a previous meeting between President of the GDA Mr. Jiaram and Ms. Rahaman they decided that draughts would be introduced to these orphanages. In the opening ceremony Ms. Rahaman welcomed the executives of the Association. She was high in praise for this gesture put to her by Mr. Jiaram. She cautioned the children to preserve whatever would be given to them and make maximum use of it. Mr. Jiaram in his presentation remarks, urged the children to use their abundant spare time in doing something that could enhance their thinking abilities. He told them that the game can be meaningful to them because once they live up to expectations they would have a chance to tour Suriname since thousands of children play the game in that country. He further said that unfortunate as they are, let draughts be your external friend which can see you interacting with the outer world. Vice President and coordinator of the Association Mr. Paul D’Anjou spoke about alternative thinking. He envisaged a high level of the game by the children in the near future. Mr. D’Anjou would also be visiting the Orphanages to give updates on the progress and to give advice to the children. The Association is embarking on a programme of introducing the game among the Disables, Orphanages and Homes for the year 2017. During the GDA Annual General Meeting which was held in January last, the President of the Association told his executives that introducing the game in these areas would create a better past time for these unfortunate individuals and perhaps bring out hidden talents. A competition is scheduled to be played at the S h a h e e d ’s B o y s O r p h a n a g e s h o r t l y. A f t e r t h e Presentations the Draught executives held a one hour clinic with the children demonstrating basic tactics. Other similar institutions whom are interested in this event can contact the President Jiaram on tel. 614-6671, 216-0100 or the Vice president on 645-1002.
Jiaram hands over board to Ms. Raheema Rahaman, on his left are two executive members, Reywattie and Paul D’Anjou.
Residents and officials of the Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage in Alexander Street, Kitty during the presentation.
Windies batting under microscope in... From page 31 a lot more difficult to score boundaries off of than just rotating [strike]. “So once the batters can put a decent total on the board of 150 upwards, they will come into their own even more with batsmen having to be more attacking towards them.” All eyes will be on 18-year-old leg-spinner Shadab Khan who was sensational on debut, grabbing four wickets in four overs which cost a mere seven runs. Brathwaite said West Indies had formulated their plans on how to combat the young bowler, and were looking towards an improved performance. The remaining games in the series will be played
on Saturday and Sunday here. SQUADS: WEST INDIES — Carlos Brathwaite (captain), Samuel Badree, Jason Holder, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Sunil Narine, Kieron Pollard, Rovman Powell, Marlon Samuels, Lendl S i m m o n s , J e r o m e Ta y l o r, C h a d w i c k Wa l t o n , Kesrick Williams. PAKISTAN — Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Ahmad Shahzad, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Fakhar Zaman, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Muhammad Nawaz , Hasan Ali, Sohail Tanvir , Wahab Riaz, Rumman Raees, Usman Kh a n S h i n w a r i .
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Thursday March 30, 2017
GCB/MOE/ DMLAS School’s combined 50-overs cricket
Sinclair, Benjamin lead Berbice to semi-final win By Sean Devers Well crafted innings from Junior Sinclair and Garfield Benjamin and a three-wicket haul from spinner Nigel Deodat led Combined Berbice Schools to a emphatic 90-run win a g a i n s t Georgetown/Mahaicony Schools Combined in the semi-finals of the GCB/MOC/DMLAS Combined 50-over tournament at Bourda yesterday to book a place in tomorrow’s final against Combined Essequibo Schools at Bourda. The right-handed Sinclair stroked five fours and a six in his well compiled 75-ball 61. He added 50 for the first wicket in 11 overs with Alex Algoo, who hit two fours in his 20 and 55 with his cousin Garfield Benjamin, whose 46 lasted 92 balls and was decorated with two fours and a six as the Berbicians slipped from 147-2 in the 36th over to be all out for 184 off 45 overs after a late start caused a reduction of five overs. Guyana U-17 Left-arm spinner Ashmead Nedd (322), and National youth spinners Pradesh Balkishan (3-22) and Dwayne Dick (235) did the damage for the GT/Mahaicony Combined,
who fell for 94 in 33.2 overs as Deodat had 3-18 and leftarm spinner Kelvin Umroa, one of nine players in the Berbice side with National Youth cricket experience, did the damage with the ball. Stefon Wilson, who made a 34-ball 31 with three boundaries and National U17 left-hander Sachin Singh, who was far from his best form, in a scratchy 21 from 40 balls, shared in a 45-run second wicket stand after Alphious Bookie who touched one to the Keeper off Leon Swammy before he had scored at 3-1. Pradesh Balkishan was the only other batsmen to reach double figures with a 60-ball 25 with two fours before he was run out at 86-9. But by then the home team were dead and only left to be buried as a succession of impetuous shot selection orchestrated the demise of most of the batsmen on a slow track and heavy outfield. E a r l i e r, i n s u n n y conditions with a few fans watching from the dismantled Kenny Whishart stand, Algoo square drove Bookie for four and on-drove Singh for another boundary before Sinclair, another National youth player, drove (Continued on page 28)
Face E’bo Schools Combined in final at Bourda tomorrow
Stefon Wilson hits Qumar Torrington back over his head for four yesterday at Bourda. (Photos by Sean Devers)
Garfield Benjamin misses a cut yesterday to fall four short of his fifty to help Berbice Schools Combined to victory yesterday at Bourda.
Junior St Clair powers one through cover during his attractive 61 yesterday Bourda.
Sachin Singh was far from his best but added 45 with Stefon Wilson in a losing cause at Bourda yesterday.
Thursday March 30, 2017
Kaieteur News
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Faculty of Education and Humanities win UG Inter-Faculty Athletics Championships
The victorious Faculty of Education and Humanities pose for a photo opportunity in celebration mode after claiming the University of Guyana Inter-Faculty Athletics title. The Faculty of Education and Humanities proved that their challenge for the Champions’ Trophy at the Inter-Faculty Track & Field Championship of the University Of Guyana (UG) was not just talk, but action as the Faculty was able to walk the walk. On completion of the meet last Friday at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora, Education and Humanities, with a total of 238 points, was ahead of the Faculty of
Social Sciences on 218 points. The University of Guyana Berbice Campus had 161 points and the Faculty of Technology 143 points to wrap up the final four places. The Faculty of Agriculture & Forestry amassed 100 points, Faculty of Earth & Environmental Sciences 79 points, Faculty of Natural Sciences 50 points and the Faculty of Health on 46 points to finish in that order. The charge for the
winners was led by the females, who won their segment of the competition with the men being third in their category. The Faculty of Technology won the male segment, but with no participation coming from the distaff side their overall position slipped to fourth. Rayon Abrams of the Faculty of Technology was crowned the sprint king with wins in the 100m, 200m & 400m, while Kezia Bess of the Faculty of Education & Humanities was heralded
sprint queen with wins in the 100m, 200m & 400m. However, their performances were not enough to garner the Champion Athlete positions with the Champion Male Athlete being Osafa Dos Santos and Champion Female Fiona Mentis both of the Faculty of Education & Humanities. Dos Santos earned 33 points with wins in the Discus, Shotput, second in the Javelin and fourth in the High Jump with Mentis
being victorious in the Long Jump, High Jump and placing second in the 100m and 200m. The salute of the March Past, which was accompanied by the Band from the Guyana Defence Force was taken by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Scott, the Registrar, Nigel Gravesande and representing the defending champions was Sydney Armstrong. The Faculty of Agriculture & Forestry was
adjudged the most uniformed Faculty on parade with the Faculty of Social Sciences having the largest contingent. The Best Banner on parade was awarded to both the Faculty of Earth & Environmental Sciences and Faculty of Social Sciences. In declaring the sports open, Dr. Scott noted the historic significance of the event being hosted at the Stadium at Leonora and the opportunity it afforded the student-athletes to compete in the best of conditions.
Windies batting under microscope in second T20I PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC — West Indies will be seeking to rediscover their once lethal batting prowess, as they go in search of an all-important series-levelling victory in the second Twenty20 International of the four-match series here today. The Caribbean side, who easily chased down an imposing 193 to reach the T20 World Cup final almost a year ago, have in recent times because almost unrecognizable and have looked a shadow of the unit that won the title in that tournament with awesome power-hitting, in a dramatic last over. Gone is the bluster, the brawn and the swagger that have come to characterise West Indies T20 teams, replaced now with timidity and uncertainty, reflected in scores of 115, 144, 103 and 111 in their last four outings. In last Sunday’s opener at Kensington Oval in Barbados, the Windies slumped from 35 for one to strife at 49 for six in the 11th over after being asked to bat, a scenario captain Carlos Brathwaite said
yesterday needed to be rectified. “[Against] Pakistan [last year] we found ourselves 20 for three and 20 for four at the end of the first six [overs],” he told reporters here ahead of the contest at Queen’s Park Oval. “We’ve progressed to [being] 34 for one [in the last game] which we were happy with at the end of the six [overs] and now it’s just a matter of understanding what we did well in the first six, replicating that but then taking it a step further and progressing between [overs] six and 14 as well, which has always been a problem area for West Indies but one which we are addressing. “We are doing it in stages. Again, we’ve conquered the first six in our opinion and it’s just a matter of getting six to 14 right. If we can have the first six, the last six and then be a lot better between six and 14, we are sure we can put up 150-plus and that would give us a better fighting chance when we go to bowl.”
West Indies were dominated by Pakistan last September, crashing to a 3-0 whitewash in the United Arab Emirates, but had banked on reversing the trend on home soil. Instead the poor results have continued on the current tour and not even the presence of the world-rated spin twin of Sunil Narine and Samuel Badree, could prevent Pakistan taking a 10 lead in the series with a six-wicket win. “I don’t think we put enough runs on the board and as a result of that, Pakistan’s batsmen were able to play [without pressure],” Brathwaite said in reference to Sunday’s opening loss. “We played into their hands basically where they could’ve nudged the ones and the twos and not be under pressure to score and play the power shots. I think that negatively affected Badree and Sunil’s game plans which as we all know, they are (Continued on page
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Windies batting under microscope in second T20I P.31
Jeffreys’ confirmation an additional boost for Sunday
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