Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

PAGE 04

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Society and its woes “All sons of one mother, Guyana the free…One land of six peoples,” says our national anthem which expresses an ideological belief that is supposedly dear to many in society. But sadly, many in the same society disavow promoting or accepting the values, beliefs and lifestyle of some in the multiracial, multi-religious and multicultural Guyana. Fifty years after independence, a section of the population in the land of the free still lives in fear of, and fear from discrimination. Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in Guyana are not respected or accepted by others because of their different lifestyle. The right to same-sex marriages in the United States and the coming out of the closet by public figures has brought to the fore the need to address this issue head-on. There are adults and youths in Guyana who are afraid of being a gay in public. They face various forms of discrimination like name calling, isolation, bias and even physical violence. They are challenged about how they should dress, walk or speak. Some of them drop out of school because they cannot cope with the public humiliation from peers and even some teachers. LGBTs are forced to accept low paying jobs and careers which are not their desired choice. Too often they are stigmatized by the public and even family members and, as a result, they gravitate to their community. Generally, the low paying and menial jobs are the saving grace of gays and lesbians. But they can make tremendous contributions to society once they are given the respect and opportunity to have an education and good paying jobs. Discrimination against LBGT is a societal problem and everyone including the religious leaders should lead the fight to make sure that they are treated fairly and equally in society. While there is a campaign against discrimination of those infected with the HIV/AIDS virus in schools and the workplace, a similar campaign should be launched against discrimination of LGBTs in Guyana. It should begin in the schools where teachers and administrators should be provided with the necessary training to educate children that LBGTs have the same rights like everyone else in society, and that they should not discriminate against them or those who have family members or friends who are gay. Further, there is a formal policy on this issue which states no one should be discriminated on the grounds of their sexual orientation, religion, race or political affiliation. In other words, discrimination of any kind is illegal and should not be tolerated. The issues surrounding the lifestyle of the LGBTs are not of religion or morality, but of human rights and discrimination. Everyone should set aside their biases based on the supposedly spiritual and sacred views and accept these people for who they are-human beings and nothing else. They should be reminded of the creed which says that all are equal in the eyes of the Creator. Homosexuality is a difficult issue to discuss even among family members because of the different views of some. It is one that is deeply mired in moral and spiritual values which are totally subjective. Many have introduced their Christian doctrine to preserve the sanctity of marriage, which in their view has been ordained to be an act between one man and one woman. They have ignored the concept of marriage outside of that doctrine. Anything else is an abomination because they believe that they are right. However, there are some fundamental differences between being right and being enlightened. This can perhaps be best summarized with the critical question: does the government and/or any of its ministries have any right in the privacy of a person’s bedroom, dictating what can or cannot be done between two or more consenting adults? This is the same society that sees an abomination behind the closed doors of consenting adults and accepts it. The hypocrisy lives on, sanctioned by moral and spiritual values which is a dilemma for LBGTs and society.

A CANADIAN EDUCATOR’S IMPRESSIONS OF GUYANA

DEAR EDITOR; As my latest sojourn in Guyana nears its end, I would like to offer another set of impressions on the nation’s current state, as an important milestone in its history is approaching. My previous two letters were a “report card” on Guyana, highlighting some positive and negative features, from a foreign visitor’s viewpoint. As an introductory disclaimer, I should inform readers that I am a Canadian academic with a Guyanese-born spouse. While I have never lived in this country, I have spent pleasant vacations here and plan many more in my impending retirement. I consider myself reasonably knowledgeable about Guyana’s history, politics, and culture but of course what follows is an “outsider’s” perspective. I have definitely enjoyed my latest stay in this friendly, fascinating, and (it

must be said) occasionally frustrating country. The Guyanese people are extremely welcoming, and I have always received a friendly reception from those with whom I have interacted, in the market, on the minibus, or just passing by on the street. Unlike large, impersonal cities such as Toronto, my home town, Guyana remains a “face-toface” society, where people take the time to greet each other warmly in the most casual of interactions. I hope that this is one aspect of the local culture that does not disappear as globalization spreads its mixed bag of blessings and curses here. This time I would like to award a few “pluses” and “minuses,” as my teaching background might suggest. But as a historian, I would also like to make some deeper observations about this country’s interesting, inspiring, and at times tragic history, in both the pre-

and post-independence eras, and offer some ideas about how I think it might be commemorated, especially on this important occasion. Much of my historical research and teaching deals with what constitutes a nation’s “historical memory” and how that precious and important legacy is interpreted and passed on from one generation to the next. To this end, I will review some key incidents in Guyana’s history, and point to their contemporary resonances on the eve of the Jubilee. On the “plus” side, on this visit I was happy to see that the much-vaunted “clean-up” of the capital, especially the once shockingly squalid Stabroek Market area, has indeed taken place, not a moment too soon for the impending anniversary and the expected arrival of many visitors from abroad. This is apparently one of the proudest (Continued on page 31)

Disappointed with the President’s forestry “giveaway” DEAR EDITOR; Allow me this space to express my total dissatisfaction with recent moves by His Excellency Mr. David Granger (President). At the recent signing of the most recent Climate Change Agreement in the U.S.A which was attended by the President, he proceeded to give away (allocate) two million hectares of our forest which adds up to 10% of our Forests. Firstly, this is in direct contradiction to what they were preaching against while in opposition. The PPP was accused of giving away almost all of our

forest when it was President Hoyte who initiated this process by granting millions of hectares of our forest to foreigners before 1992. After careful investigation it was discovered that the relevant agencies were not consulted on this move. This action by the President can only be described as “Ad hoc and KneeJerking!” Bear in mind that the “International Funding Community” is no longer giving additional funding towards “Climate Change Project.” The only benefit we will enjoy is that of the PPP initiated Norway

Agreement. My questions are (1), what are the benefits toward the country and Guyanese from this agreement (2), what consultation and procedures were followed with regards to the Forest Management Guidelines, the Opposition, Parliament, stakeholders etc. It is clear from my investigation, that none of these agencies were consulted beforehand. I am requesting that the media seek to clarify answers to these questions and publish same ASP as this seems to be another “disastrous expedition” in which the President” behaves as though he owns the forest. We all know that Guyanese own the forest. Joseph Noel

Water could not have receded that quickly as claimed DEAR EDITOR; In a media news article of May 3, it was reported that prolonged flooding of a large section of Eastern Queenstown, Georgetown, due to heavy rainfall on April 30/May 1 was avoided as a result of intervention by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) and City Hall to clear blocked culverts in Queenstown one of which was under Peter Rose Street discharging into a drainage channel immediately west of Vlissengen Road. An accompanying photo showed the channel completely blocked with weed and debris with a worker supervised by three Inspectors clearing the outlet of one of the clogged culverts. The Georgetown drainage network is an integrated system and therefore it is inconceivable that given the poor state of the Peter Rose Street drainage channel which the photo clearly showed, that flood water from the Demerara Cricket ground and parts of Eastern Queenstown could have receded speedily as claimed since the

clogged channel with silt and overgrown weeds could not have discharged its load quickly into the Lamaha Street Canal and thence to the Kingston Sluice. A few weeks ago, MPI and the city Engineer assured City Residents that Georgetown’s drainage system was prepared to respond quickly to any flooding from heavy rainfall. However, the evidence suggests otherwise as much work remains to be done to the channels and sluices’ outfalls to release/accommodate the heavy rainfalls which usually cause flooding of large areas of the City. The comprehensive executable drainage plan under preparation by the National Task Force Commission was initiated by MPI last year for the rehabilitation of the drainage of Georgetown but it is still awaiting completion, review and execution. A Dutch Risk Reduction Team (DRRT) which visited Guyana at the invitation of MPI last year made recommendations to improve

Georgetown’s drainage system but few if any of them have been implemented. In doing little or nothing, MPI claims to be waiting for a follow-up visit by DRRT to map Georgetown’s drainage system to identify the bottlenecks responsible for the City’s yearly flooding. It expects this mapping to become the blueprint for future interventions to solve the City’s drainage problems which unfortunately, would not be ready for this rainy season nor the next. MPI claims that the existing drainage network for the City can only accommodate 2.4 inches of rainfall during a 24-hour period before flooding starts. The Ministry has no data to support this fallacious claim and unless measured correlations are made between rainfalls and discharges into the river over 24-hour periods with simultaneous observations of water levels within the City’s boundaries, the claim thus made is just a guesstimate. However, assuming this claim could be supported, what has MPI/City Engineer done to get rid of excess (Continued on page 31)

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

KN editorial is wrong on INSTALL FIRE SPRINKLERS Africans’ capacity to save BEFORE LIVES ARE LOST DEAR EDITOR; Thank you for a most informative editorial entitled ‘“Looking for Answers “ (KNews, 11 May). I must however correct the statement quoted in the editorial, namely: “In Guyana, we can appreciate the effects of culture on this variable by considering the differential imperatives promulgated by the regimes of slavery and indentureship. During slavery, there was little incentive for slaves to save since, in the absence of legal family relationships, the inheritance of property was not secured. During indentureship, on the other hand, the labourers

could own and pass down property which encouraged them to save and invest in the future.” Slaves (the enslaved as no one is born a slave), were never paid. What therefore did they have to save? As you correctly pointed out, after emancipation, the Village Movement, which was the greatest entrepreneurial movement in any post slavery society, happened in Guyana and no where else. Kindly correct your statement as it continues to give the historically incorrect view that Africans culturally don’t save. Eric M. Phillips

DEAR EDITOR; Thanks for assisting me with my proposal, to the public and government on Fire Sprinklers being mandatory for commercial buildings. As we see the development of more buildings, three (3) stories and more being constructed, we need to think about fire safety protection for its occupants. The Fire Service department has the authority of

Word on the street is not favourable to APNU-AFC Coalition DEAR EDITOR; I was in Barbados in the late 80’s when they were experiencing a massive financial problem. The IMF was knocking at their door and the Erskine Sandiford government had to retrench loads of public servants to stave off a dollar devaluation. In the mid 90’s I was at University in Trinidad when the Patrick Manning administration was facing their financial meltdown. During Manning was questioned about his involvement with Dole Chadee, a suspected drug king pin. I was living in Michigan during 2007-2009 financial meltdown associated with the USA housing market. Many persons were being sent home and businesses were closing. People were losing their homes and the American stock market was in a free fall. Editor, in none of those cases did I observe what I am observing now that Guyana is facing its own financial crisis. Everywhere I turn, the remarks are consistent, as though rehearsed: “Let the drugs flow.” It is believed that prior to May 2015, Guyana had a parallel economy. Many attribute the large buildings, the influx of auto-

mobiles and the huge developmental expansions, to the drug under world. It is believed that this new administration is hampering the drug trade. Ask most Guyanese and they all have a story as to the affordability of many of those massive structures – finished and stalled – that dot the skyline of Georgetown. It is a public secret that most Guyanese think that the funding of those edifices were only possible through ill-gotten gains. But now that things are financially tightening in Guyana, there are those who are clamoring for things to go back to the days “when the drugs were flowing.” And what is very telling about the clarion calls for a return to the “old days”, is that the calls are also coming from religious people. There are practicing church, mosque and temple goers who are saying that Guyana needs a financial shot in the arm, and that if drugs is what it takes, then “let it flow!” When I hear those remarks I cringe, for it is obvious that those calling for the “drugs to flow” do not understand the magnitude of the horrors that drugs cause. Drugs turn women into prostitutes and men into junkies. Drugs eat

Passage through the Dark DEAR EDITOR; The loquacious taxi driver taking his passenger through the eastern side of Carmichael Street observed, however ineloquently, the contrast between the total darkness surrounding the Promenade Gardens and the brilliant lighting directly opposite. He was not necessarily expecting a rejoinder, as he mused about the Town Council not illuminating that well manicured square of flowered

vegetation with lights and flags in keeping with the celebratory signage that had enwrapped other parts of the city of Georgetown. He paused, waiting for a rejoinder that never came unwittingly leaving his passenger in silent reflection. E.B John

away at one’s brain cells and retard you for life. Drugs create a violent culture where many of its victims are viciously murdered. Drugs negatively affect the academic performances of huge portions of some communities. However, when these facts are highlighted, the common remark is that the drugs are only flowing through Guyana. The notion is that it is shipped out to other developed countries and the responsibility is on them. The destruction that those countries face as a result of the drug trade seems not to bother those wishing for the return of “old days”. And when it is highlighted that Guyana has not been spared, as is obvious from our ever-growing ‘junkie’ population, the flippant response is that, “they are only collateral damage”. I work with the homeless and the addicts, many of whom are parents. Those who trivialize the effects of drugs would talk differently if they were ever to be subjected to its ravenous effects. When once you get hocked, it is almost impossible to redeem your life! The resultant effects are the devastation and destruction of the affected family. Indeed it would be unfair to lay the dire economic situation squarely on the doorsteps of this administration. A cursory observation of Guyana’s current plight would show that sugar is

dead; rice took a hit from the failed petro caribe Venezuelan deal, gold prices are taking a beating and the protracted dry spell was a nightmare for both our natural resources and farming. In other words, the economic realities facing Guyana was predestined to happen, no matter who had won the 2015 elections. However, these facts do not resonate with the masses. Perception is reality and the perception is that Guyana had a parallel economy of drug money before 2015 and things were rolling along. Now the government has changed and they feel that the country has all but grinded to a halt. Having said that, I would like to be a fly on the wall of the Granger administration’s Cabinet meetings. I would really like to know what they discuss in their war-room. What plans do they have for the kick starting of the Guyana economy? It seems like no one other that the insiders seem to know what plans are in train for the development of this country. The Granger administration has four solid years to pull something out of their hat that will significantly stimulate this economy. And they had better reveal it soon because the word on the street is, come 2020, even some of those who like the coalition will hold their nose and vote their pocket books. Even some religious people. Pastor Wendell P. Jeffrey Practical Christianity Ministries

checking buildings and issue the fire permits, so that the buildings are safe in the event that there’s a fire. Our fire codes and laws are out dated and the fire department has to work by these codes and laws. The fire codes of Guyana say that night clubs must have Fire Sprinklers systems installed. I know of one (1) night club in Guyana that has Fire Sprinklers installed. How did all the other night clubs get their fire permits to build and operate? We all support and welcome the development of our nation, but do we just let things just slide or sweep the rules, codes and laws of our country under the carpet. By doing this does it make our nation a greater one? What does it portray about the level of safety business owners have for the occupants? The Marriott hotel has fire sprinklers installed, not because it’s a 5 star hotel but because the safety of its occupants is the highest concern for them, even the loading dock has fire sprinklers installed, also Sharon’s Mall on king street has fire sprinklers installed to provide safety for it’s occupants. Other hotels don’t provide this standard of safety for its occupants. Why is it that government is not updated with the fire codes and lift the safety standards of our country? Is it that government does not care about the safety of our citizens? The cost to install fire sprinklers is about the same as tiling the building’s flooring. Can you put a price on safety, is there a price on lives being saved, building owners spend millions of dollars on the mere buildings but to invest in the safety of the building and its occupants, owners think it unnecessary to take these safety measures. Is it about fancy buildings and no safe standards for the

building or its occupants? Government must take these simple safety standards into consideration and update our laws. I am willing to assist my country and its government to make Fire Sprinklers mandatory for commercial buildings. I have submitted my proposal to the past government and all they did was reply with a letter saying they will look into it. Why is it that government, past and present, do not consider new ideas and proposals in bettering our country? Is it because i am of no political status or back ground or because i am not a big financial provider for the country, that my proposal is not being considered? Mr. President, please consider and make Fire Sprinklers mandatory for commercial buildings, three stories and over. Let us not wait until there are lives lost to implement these laws. We see with the ABC countries there is safety at the top of their list, this is because of in the past many lives and buildings where lost to fire. Let us also put our country’s safety at the top of our list of making Guyana better. As I was composing this letter i heard about the fire at the Gafoor complex and bond. I once went into the Gafoor complex and bond and i asked to speak to someone in charge, that i am from Fire Sprinklers and Safety Equipment Services, and was inquiring if they were interested in installing Fire Sprinklers to the building, i was told no. Fire sprinklers are 99% effective in extenuating a fire. I have approached many buildings when in construction, and enquire if the buildings required or needed fire sprinklers and they all said no. Please Mr. President don’t say no to Fire Sprinklers. Vishul Ishwaridin

PAGE 6

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

Boards to determine action from forensic audits - Govt. Official By: Kiana A. Wilburg The Board members of various entities will have the opportunity to decide the course of action that will be taken on the damning findings of the forensic audits launched by the APNU/AFC administration. This is according to Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan. Yesterday, Ramjattan recalled that there was a subcommittee which was established to examine the various forensic audit reports. He said that the sub-committee consisted of himself, Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams and Junior Finance Minister, Jaipaul Sharma. The Minister noted that the sub-committee was initially tasked with the responsibility to go through the reports with an aim to determine which deal mainly with administrative irregularities and which enter the realm of criminality. The Parliamentarian said that the matters of an administrative nature would require disciplinary action against those at fault, while those of a criminal nature will be forwarded to the police for further investigations. Ramjattan maintained that it would be too burdensome to just hand the reports over to the police only to find that some reports speak only to administrative improprieties. The Minister said, however, that the Boards of the audited entities will now have a chance to examine the said reports to decide on what will be the outcome. He believes that it is important for the Boards not to be left out of the equation and for them to have a say in what is the way forward on prosecution and administrative decisions that need to be

taken. The Public Security Minister asserted, “I have recommended that all reports go to the Board so that they can have a say regarding the forensic audits and determine whether they see prosecution as necessary. We should not exclude the Board even though a sub-committee was given the responsibility to make certain determinations.” He added, “I have been asked by some of the Boards to look at some of the reports in light of my previous association with criminal law. About four or five I have agreed should go to the police for further investigations.” Asked to say what those reports are, Ramjattan said he could not reveal that at this point. It was in May that the Granger-led administration began expending some $133M of taxpayers’ dollars on 45 of the 50 forensic audits to ascertain how the assets of the state were sold, disposed of or transferred under the previous administration. The remaining five audits were sponsored by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Several audits were also launched in July while others started in later weeks. While the report on NICIL has been completed for months now with criminal proceedings are still to take shape. Those on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU) have been completed for a longer period. Most of the forensic audits have unearthed several hidden accounts, with billions of dollars. The forensic audit into the NFMU has unearthed some of the “most appalling acts of corruption”, said Junior Finance Minister, Jaipaul Sharma. Commenting on the find-

ings of the report, Sharma said, “There was just no proper management at this unit. There were instances where you could see that they just lost out on millions of dollars’ worth in fees that they should have ensured they collected. There were some defaulters as well, and the agency just took no action against them.” “(NFMU) could have collected a lot more revenue. Instead (the entity) allowed a lot of favouritism to take place and as such they lost, I would say, millions of dollars in revenue. “They allowed their big PPP boys to slip under the radar while others were called upon to pay their dues. In fact, they weren’t collecting from two of their PPP big boys for some time. It was a lot of unfairness that was going on at that agency.” Sharma had said, “The

level of corruption which was taking place at the agency points to the incompetency of those who are managing it.” The Junior Finance Minister said that the revelations of some of the forensic audits thus far, vindicate the concerns the APNU+AFC had regarding the lack of accountability under the previous administration as well as the stench of corruption in some agencies. As for the forensic audit launched into the EPA, Sharma who is in charge of the audits, revealed that this has been completed since August. He had said that the audit uncovered that the entity has been holding some 15 accounts with over $400M. Kaieteur News understands that recommendations were made for the monies to be transferred to the Consolidated Fund.

The Forensic audit revealed that the agency was apparently receiving monies from various agencies and opening a new account every time it received large sums. Sharma explained that the agency should not have done that. He said that it should have held one account and categorized its expenses. The Environmental Protection Agency was established on World Environment Day, June 5, 1996. It was on this date that the then Acting President of Guyana, Samuel Hinds, assented to Environmental Protection Act (No 11, 1996). The Act mandates the Agency to oversee the effective management, conservation, protection and improvement of the environment. It also requires that the Agency take the necessary measures to ensure the prevention and control of pollution, assessment of the impact of economic development on the environment and the sustainable use of natural resources. The Agency’s

Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan work enables Guyana to contribute to global and national environmental protection and conservation. As part of its work the EPA implements education, regulation and enforcement programmes and uses partnership and collaborative approaches to strengthen the impact of its interventions.

The list of the forensic audits which were launched by the Government

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

U.S. sees China boosting military presence after island-building spree (Reuters) - China is expected to add substantial military infrastructure, including surveillance systems, to artificial islands in the South China Sea this year, giving it long-term “civil-military bases” in the contested waters, the Pentagon said yesterday. In its annual report to Congress on China’s military activities in 2015, the U.S. Defense Department estimated that China’s reclamation work had added more than 3,200 acres (1,300 hectares) of land on seven features it occupied in the Spratly Islands in the space of two years. It said China had completed its major reclamation efforts in October, switching focus to infrastructure development, including three 9,800 foot-long (3,000 meter) airstrips that can accommodate advanced fighter jets. “Additional substantial infrastructure, including communications and surveillance systems, is expected to be built on these features in the coming year,” the report said. “China will be able to use its reclaimed features as persistent civil-military bases to enhance its presence in the South China Sea significantly.” The report comes at a time of heightened tension over maritime territories claimed by China and disputed by several Asian nations. Washington has accused Beijing of

militarizing the South China Sea while Beijing, in turn, has criticized increased U.S. naval patrols and exercises in Asia. The Pentagon report said China was focusing on developing capabilities to counter outside intervention in any conflict, but appeared to want to avoid direct confrontation with the United States in Asia, given the potential economic damage. At the same time, “China demonstrated a willingness to tolerate higher levels of tension in the pursuit of its interests, especially in pursuit of its territorial claims,” the report said. MILITARY CHIEFS TALK The Pentagon disclosed on Friday that the U.S. military’s top officer, Marine General Joseph Dunford, had proposed an effort to “bolster risk reduction mechanisms” to his counterpart, the Chinese Chief of the Joint Staff Department, General Fang Fenghui. Dunford’s spokesman, Captain Greg Hicks, said in a statement that both sides agreed the talks, which took place by video conference on Thursday, were a valuable way to “manage both cooperative and contentious issues, and avoid miscalculation.” The Pentagon’s report cautioned that China was committed to sustaining

growth in defense spending even as its economic growth cools and to pursuing objectives increasingly distant from China’s shores. Abraham Denmark, deputy assistant secretary of defense for East Asia, told a briefing that China’s 2015 defense spending was higher than it publicly disclosed and had reached $180 billion, compared with an official Chinese of $144 billion. The report pointed to China’s November announcement that it was establishing a military facility in Djibouti. It said China was also expected to establish naval logistics hubs in countries with which it shares interests, including Pakistan. The U.S report renewed accusations against China’s government and military for cyber attacks against U.S. government computer systems, a charge Beijing denies. It said attacks in 2015 appeared focused on intelligence collection. “Targeted information could inform Chinese military planners’ work to build a picture of U.S. defence networks, logistics, and related military capabilities that could be exploited during a crisis,” the report said. It also cautioned that the actions and skills needed for the intrusions carried out to date “are similar to those necessary to conduct cyberattacks.”

Opposition motion of no confidence in government defeated BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - CMC – A former member of the main opposition Barbados Labour Party (BLP) early yesterday sided with the government to defeat a motion of no confidence in the administration of Prime Minister Freundel Stuart. Opposition Leader Mia Miottley had earlier this week brought the motion claiming that the Stuart government was incompetent and ruling by stealth among other allegations. But when the vote was taken after 2.00 am (local time), the government, which enjoyed a two seat majority in the Parliament, also received the backing of the Member of Parliament for Christ Church West, Dr Maria Agard, who had during the debate being critical of both government and opposition legislators. Agard, who was expelled from the BLP last year, told

Parliament that unlike their predecessors, the current crop of political leaders had lost the art of making citizens feel proud to be Barbadian and part of nation building. “In our desire for supremacy, we have a teardown society and the modus operandi is to destroy our opponents with character assassination and parody and by extension to ascribe only the most evil and diabolical intentions to anyone not sharing our agenda.” She questioned the rationale for the motion, arguing that the grounds were no different from the accusations made against the then BLP government by the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) when it was in opposition. “The only thing that we are really arguing about here is . . . a betrayal of the public

trust and the gang-rape of the public purse. I am left to wonder, what is the purpose of this exercise if the real charge is that the extent of your sin is bigger than the extent of mine? That ‘yes, what we did was wrong but what you are doing is more wrong’. Who can really come to these chambers with clean hands and righteous indignation? None,” Agard said. Tourism Minister Richard Sealy had also dismissed the motion saying that Barbados tourism is regaining top international ranking. “Expedia, the leading online tour operator, voted Barbados the best Caribbean destination for 2016. Caribbean Journal, one of the more prestigious online publications, also voted Barbados the best destination. Trip advisor had us at third,” he said.

PAGE 7

PAGE 8

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2016

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

One more time for Tony Cozier! “Out! Gone! Well, there you have it! Lillee caught Willy bowled Dilley!” These were some of the most memorable lines in the history of cricket commentary. Tony Cozier, who died this week at the age of 75, had the honour of being at the mic and to have uttered these famous words. A few years ago, I saw Joseph ‘Reds’ Pereira giving a young man a few tips about the art of radio commentating. It was quite an experience to witness ‘Reds’ doing this because the standard of radio commentating that he exemplified is a lost art today. There was a time when there was fierce debate in Guyana as to who was the better commentator, ‘Reds’ or Tony Cozier. Both men made cricket come alive in your imagination. The way they described each ball, each shot and the actions of those on and off the field, made you feel, sitting on your couch at 2am, listening to Test match coverage from Australia that you were at the ground. This was long before there was television coverage in the Caribbean. The entire Caribbean depended on these doyens of radio to describe and to analyze what was going on in the field. They educated a generation of West Indians about the greats of West Indian and world cricket. I always grudgingly

thought that Tony was shade better than ‘Reds’. I wanted Reds to be better because he was a Pomeroon man. But Tony, in my estimation, had this mellifluous voice. That was one of his strengths. ‘Reds’ had his own strengths. He could hold you in suspense with every ball. He would transfer the tension in the ground right into your living rooms. Reds was a natural. He learnt his craft by simply commentating. Tony on the other hand was a trained journalist who came from a family which had its origins in the newspaper industry. Tony was a top class journalist, not just on cricket but on other topics. He was a brilliant writer. I always wondered why the Guyana Press Association never invited Tony Cozier to lecture to the local media fraternity about journalism. Perhaps, like most people, they presumed that he was only a cricket commentator. Tony was more than simply a cricket commentator. He was passionate about West Indies cricket. No one was pained by the decline in West Indies cricket than Tony Cozier. No one was more authoritative on West Indian cricket than Tony. I have seen young cricketers still in their cricketing bibs, but making a great deal

of money, try to disrespect Tony Cozier. If they only knew what West Indian cricket meant to him and the service he provided for almost sixty years to West Indian cricket, they would bow their heads in shame. They do not know the history of West Indian cricket. They do not appreciate the role that radio played in the development of cricket con-

sciousness in the West Indies. Tony Cozier was part of that development. He helped to shape that consciousness. Radio is now all entertainment. There was a time when radio was rational. There was time when it was used to unite the people of the Caribbean. Tony was an integral part of radio and the old timers would know of his role in radio. Tony was also a publisher.

The best publication on West Indian cricket was the West Indies Cricket Annual which was produced, for many years, by Tony Cozier. If you have any of those annuals they would be worth a fortune today. I asked Ron Robinson, the new programme manager of the National Communication Network (NCN), to dig into the archives of the radio and un-

earth some of the old commentaries of Tony. I hope those tapes have not been destroyed. Let us hear the smooth voice of Tony Cozier, one last time.

opment, the Ministry had explained that while each of the four subjects written in the NGSA continues to have two papers (Paper 1 and Paper 2) as it relates to candidate information, the two papers require different sets of information. For paper one, the answer sheets the candidate information –candidate name and identification number – were already printed or ‘preslugged’. The candidates however were required to write/sign their names as a mechanism to ensure that the candidate for whom the paper was prepared was actually the one who answered the questions. But according to the Ministry, this would have had no implications for marking since the Ministry this year planned to mark all answer sheets electronically. As it relates to paper two, the cover page of the answer sheet was bifurcated

and perforated. The Test Code, Subject, and Candidate Number were required on both sides. The Test Code and Subject were printed on while candidates were required to write in their Candidate Number. In addition to this, on the right half of the paper only, candidates were required to write on the name of their school, their full name, date of birth and gender. The right side of the sheets were all detached prior to the commencement of the marking of paper two and retained for administrative purposes only. But the information required for the marking process, according to the Ministry, is the Test Code, Subject, and Candidate Number only. “These are administrative mechanisms and will have no bearing on the marking process whatsoever,” the Ministry has insisted.

Marking of NGSA papers to be completed today The Education Minister (centre) during his recent visit to the marking centre

Dem boys seh... BaiShan shedding weight When dem boys was talking bout how foreign people coming to use Guyana, people use to seh how de Waterfalls paper had an agenda. Just de other day Rohee repeat de thing bout how de Waterfalls paper did pick on BaiShan. Dem boys seh that dem wasn’t happy that people was holding dem foreigners to doing good for de country. Of course, de same foreign company claim how dem boys was lying, how dem was mekking mischief because dem didn’t like de agreement that Jagdeo sign wid dem. But old people know that all dem boys was doing was mekking sure that de people of this country get de best fuh demself. Yesterday de news break. BaiShan knocking off people lef, right and centre. De hotel wha dem buy fuh put up people was causing problem because it had people who wasn’t paying rent and at de same time dem wasn’t wukking. And when nuff people live together is not easy to wake up and watch one another face whole day and nobody ain’t wukking. Dem boys seh is now dem understand why these people wasn’t employing Guyanese. Dem believe that dem would have had to find accommodation fuh de Guyanese. Anyhow, dem start knocking off people yesterday. Dem boys see people walking wid dem Georgie bundle heading to de city. None of dem got money to rent a place suh dem had to be going somewhere wheh people would tek care of dem. But as dem boys notice, is not all who cry brucks really don’t have money. De same man who knocking off people in de casino gambling every night. That ain’t all. Some of de same people who get knock off and who look like dem don’t have money was in de casino. But dem boys worried. Another one coming. Is like when people get an abscess and as soon as it bore another one come out at de same spot. De only thing is that this one wha coming ain’t getting no special concession. Talk half and watch how everybody getting knock off.

Marking of the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) is slated to be completed today. This is according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Education yesterday. Marking, the statement revealed, commenced on May 9, 2016. Last week Friday Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, and team visited the marking centre for the 2016 NGSA which was written by approximately 14,500 candidates on April 27 and April 28, 2016. The subject areas in which candidates participated were Mathematics, English, Science and Social Studies. During the recent visit, to the marking centre, the Minister and his team were apprised of the administrative processing of the marking of the assessment scripts. This process entails the recording of, and separation of the bio

data information from the scripts in preparation for marking. A Caribbean Examination Council’s (CXC) representative at the marking centre explained that there is a four tier verification system in place at the marking centre which will ensure that scores are recorded correctly. The Minister and his team also visited the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD) where they met with Measurement and Evaluation Specialists and Chief Examiners for the various subject areas during the standardization of the NGSA 2016 scripts. The 2016 NGSA this year had incorporated some changes. But according to the Ministry these were related to the question paper and answer sheets and not to the structure or format of the questions on the question paper. To clarify this devel-

PAGE 10

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Perry Mars’s murder; I’m ashamed to be Guyanese One of the nicest professors I ever had in all of the three universities I attended was Dr. Perry Mars. I never called him Dr. Mars because we were like political comrades so I called him Perry. He taught me Pol: 100, the course in political philosophy in my last year as a UG student. I became a lecturer at UG years later and taught that very course. From the time of my freshman moments at UG until his death on Thursday, we remained good friends Perry Mars was one of the nicest Guyanese I ever met. If I were to speak as an Indian, I would say he is one of the most decent, multi-racial, African-Guyanese I have ever met. This will not be a free-flowing column because I will not pen it with calm emotions. It is the manner of his death that has devastated me. A man that was one of the best social science thinkers this country has produced had to die in a home invasion – robbed and murdered. It is not right. This cannot be right. This cannot be happening to Guyana. I would like to share with readers one incident that shows the type of human Perry Mars was. He was giving me a ride from UG and

Frederick Kissoon

Dr. Perry Mars

One of Dr. Perry Mars’ work made a stop at Stella Maris School in Woolford Avenue to pick up his son. His son crossed the road towards the car and this cyclist rode into

the little boy and knocked him onto the roadway. Perry came out of the car and in a quiet tone, gently admonished the rider. I know this could not have been me if that had happened to my daughter. I know this could not have been most people in the world if that had happened to their child. But such was the nature of the

man. I will always embrace the appreciation Perry had of me at a time at UG when I was seen as too radical. He never treated me as a student but as a political buddy. Perry was quintessentially a Jaganite. For some esoteric reason he was a deep admirer and supporter of Cheddi Jagan. I was a deep supporter of the Working People’s Alliance but it never brought any uneasiness in our friendship. He wanted to see me develop intellectually and through his initiative, I was the only student invited to a weekly rap session among lecturers at the home of Yvonne Benn, sociology lecturer at her David Street home in Kitty. I remember the first session I attended, Rupert Roopnaraine gave a stirring

analysis of a worrying trend in Cuba with the removal of the film institute and its placement in the Ministry of Culture. At one of those sessions, Perry offered a trenchant critique of a booklet on cooperative socialism by Dr. Henry Jeffrey. Jeffrey at the time was the Principal of Kuru Kuru College. Perry argued, using statistics, that Guyana’s economy was more of state capitalism than cooperative socialism. He showed where the role of the cooperatives was less than five percent of the economy and went on to argue that it was just a slogan Burnham found useful. I went away to study and came back to join the staff at UG. By then he had migrated but his work on Caribbean politics remained instrumen-

tal through his publications. Perry was a strange man; good-looking, bright and decent but he was just not a social mixer. He just didn’t want to be part of the middle class crowd. And I suspected that was the reason I became close to him. He didn’t alienate me with the trappings of a middle class intellectual. After the PPP came to power, I thought his name would feature prominently because President Jagan respected him immensely. But he was never one to push himself forward. I never knew he was back in Guyana until I met him at the check-out counter at Survival Supermarket. The first thing he said to me; “I’m reading you; you haven’t changed.” It was really great to see him again and I told him that. He said that he comes often to Guyana and stayed at the very house he owned since in the seventies. This is the house he was murdered in. I wish I could say so much more about a great Guyanese that I have so much respect and love for. I will bow my head in silence at the church service and at the burial site and I will do so in the feeling of being ashamed of what my country has become.

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

U.S. telecoms authority offers Govt. help in developing sector US telecommunication authorities have offered Guyana help in managing the country’s spectrum and regulatory practices. According to the US Embassy, yesterday, representatives of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Nese Guendelsberger, Deputy Bureau Chief; and Robert Nelson, Chief Engineer, recently met with Minister of Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes, and provided technical briefings on a wide variety of topics including spectrum management and allocation, regulatory best practices, and telecommunications regulatory policy. In addition to Minister Hughes, officials from the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU), eGovernance Unit, Public Utilities Commission (PUC), Guyana Learning Channel Trust, and Guyana National Broadcast Authority board were in attendance. The visit would come at a time when the administration is moving to open up the telecommunications sector with the passage of updated laws in the National Assembly. The laws will effectively allow new players to enter the telecoms market and compete in the mobile phone, landline and internet market. There have been significant complaints about the development of the market

with both Digicel Guyana and the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company complaining that a delay in issuing new frequencies is holding up the launch of new services. The new telecoms legislations have been in limbo for several years now. According to the US Embassy, Minister Hughes and the FCC representatives cited the importance of such capacity building sessions in assisting the government’s efforts to facilitate the development of world class telecommunications legislation and implementing regulations in order to assist in the development of this growing and vitally important sector of Guyana’s economy. “The FCC representatives praised the government’s efforts to modernize telecommunications infrastructure including its recent decision to allow cellular providers to launch 4G services in advance of Guyana’s 50th anniversary celebrations.” Both the FCC and the Ministry of Telecommunications pledged to continue cooperation as Guyana advances telecommunications modernization legislation. While in Guyana, the FCC officials also had the opportunity to participate in the “Girls in Information Communication Technology” event designed to encourage young women to learn more

FCC representatives with local broadcaster, Enrico Woolford (right), and an official from the Ministry of Telecommunications.

about information technology. The FCC representatives highlighted the FCC International Visitors Program and online training as excellent opportunities for young women to become more knowledgeable about, and perhaps pursue careers, in the exciting and constantly changing field of telecommunications.

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

Guyana looking for credible investors - Trotman tells new ambassadors to China, US Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, yesterday met with the country’s new ambassadors to China and the US. He warned that Guyana will be looking to them to ensure investors are above board. Paying courtesy call on the Minister were Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, Bayney Karran, and Ambassador to the United States of America, Riyad Insanally. According to the Minis-

try, Trotman updated the ambassadors on the current priorities of the Ministry, its ongoing engagements with Chinese and American companies, and partnership and investment opportunities that are available within the extractive industries sector. “The Minister also shared some cross-cutting areas for support which include training and capacity building, policy development, and the establishment of a regulatory agency for Guyana’s growing

petroleum sector.” China and the US are two of Guyana’s biggest donors. The extractive industries, including gold, timber, bauxite, oil and even rare earth, have been the biggest attractions for investors in the last decade but there have been problems. During the meeting the issue of proper background checks into potential investors was raised. “In response to a question from Ambassador Karran about due diligence procedures for the extractive industries sector, Minister Trotman noted the important role the Ambassadors can play in facilitating due diligence procedures that will help the Ministry to regulate investment interest in Guyana.” The Minister, the statement said, reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to a culture of transparency and open governance by noting that “we are not looking for fly-by-night startups, but for credible people who are willing to invest and their investment will be protected.” Ambassador Insanally,

the Ministry said, expressed support of such a role and highlighted its importance in helping the Ministry to network with credible investment partners overseas. “The Ministry will furnish the Ambassadors with general information about ongoing developments in the Natural Resources Sector, and has committed to mutual and continuous sharing of relevant information to help both Ambassadors to be better prepared to advance Guyana’s interests on foreign soil.” The issue of due dili-

Minister Raphael Trotman (left) meets with new Ambassadors, Riyad Insanally and Bayney Karran

gence has been a sore one, especially during the last two previous administrations of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). A number of investors were being granted forestry and mining lands and even oil exploration concessions, but quite a few have failed to invest the monies as promised in agreements with the Government of Guyana. Some of the commitments include building processing facilities. The investors were granted billions of dollars in tax breaks, waivers and other

concessions, monies that Guyana could ill-afford to lose. The coalition, while it was in opposition before May 11, 2015 general elections, had vowed to ensure proper due diligence to investors are above board. Earlier this week, President David Granger told media workers that his government was seriously considering reducing the level of concessions to ensure that local businesses are not disadvantaged. A number of investors have been called in to update government on their plans.

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 13

Kaieteur News

More action needed if Guyana truly - GCCI Head means business With the theme for Guyana’s premiere annual trade fair and exposition – GuyExpo – being “50 years, Guyana means business – Promoting Enterprise , Driving Productivity”, it is time to demonstrate in actions more than in words, that Guyana truly means business. This was according to the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Vishnu Doerga, who was at the time addressing the gathering as GuyExpo 2016 got underway on Friday last. Present at the event were President of Guyana, David Granger; Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo; Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, along with other members of Parliament; members of the diplomatic core; business operatives; and other participants. Doerga hailed the event as an auspicious one – more than any other, since it highlights the available business opportunities in Guyana. Doerga said that he wished to provide a Private Sector perspective on the opportunities and the issues that need to be considered. He added that over the past few years, Guyana has been experiencing “simultaneous” drops in prices of many of the major traditional exports. These drops, he said, have exposed the private sector’s overreliance on trading in commodities in the raw or minimally processed form. “Whilst the resulting economic slowdown is unfortu-

nate, it serves as a timely reminder to keep our efficiency levels at an acceptable level, and to focus on adding more value to our major exports. “Our fertile soil which has supported our agriculture sector needs to be supplemented by a vibrant agro-processing sector in order to realise our role as a food basket for the 15 million plus Caribbean Community (CARICOM) residents and further beyond” Doerga stated. Further, the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME)’s integration mechanism needs to function as intended he said, to allow the promised access to CARICOM markets – access which he sated, is devoid of “unnecessary” barriers. The branching out into non-resource depleting commercial activities, becomes even more urgent “At the same time, the need for diversifying into non-resource depleting commercial activities becomes even more urgent. Knowledge and service-based industries such as information technology; telecommunications; tourism; business process outsourcing; and the creative industries, holds the potential to drastically reduce our unemployment levels.” These activities, he said, needs to be supported by the “much needed legislation and subsequent enforcement”. It is in this regard, the business community looks forward to the “liberalisation” of the Telecommunications Industry and the establishment of

modern intellectual property legislation, Doerga asserted. He stated that the call for entrepreneurship to become a catalyst for job growth is very timely but will require that the subject of entrepreneurship becoming as important as the sciences in Guyana’s educational system. This, he said, will ensure that students, who leave the school system, are fully aware and educated about the process of turning ideas into reality. “For current and aspiring entrepreneurs, the value of education more than the thirst for financing, needs to be impressed. Nearly every other profession on par with the possible earning power of successful entrepreneurs such as the medical, legal and management professions requires years of training much unlike the limited training that entrepreneurs currently seek - let alone access,” Doerga said. He said that it should therefore not be surprising to know that there is a strong correlation between the limited entrepreneurial training received, and the very high failure rate of start-ups in the first five years. He asserted that entrepreneurs who seek knowledge continuously – formally or informally, are more likely to succeed. Business community urged to pursue value-added initiatives GuyExpo’s theme he said is appropriate and requires that each stakeholder plays their respective part. There-

President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Vishnu Doerga. fore, he urged the business community to focus on opportunities which add value to their products and services; to meet local and international standards; and to pursue promising markets with the intent of truly becoming Guyana’s engines of growth. “We expect from our citizens (and) consumers, both local and visiting, to demand high standards of products and services from our businesses while supporting locally manufactured products whenever possible.” Doerga stated that while

he is a strong believer of the free market economy, he also strongly believe that Guyana has many of the ingredients necessary to deliver worldclass products which can stand their ground and be an easier option for local and international consumers. Government’s actions laudable; more is still expected Doerga took the opportunity to congratulate the APNU+AFC coalition on its first year in office. The holding of Local Government Elections (LGEs), the more recently access to 4G internet

services, the release of timely budgets are some of the new government’s achievements that are acknowledged by the GCCI he said. “But as an effect of globalisation, as an effect of education, and as an effect of increased sophistication, we will always expect more. As citizens, we expect the government to accelerate performing its facilitative role; providing the road, air, shipping, port infrastructure, a sense of security, macro-economic stability, the required supporting legislation and regulations, and to also tailor tax regimes which stimulate not stifle private sector growth. We look forward to governance with both ethics and compassion thereby creating a level and fair playing field” As private sector representatives, Doerga said, people they expect from themselves the strengthening of their organisations in order to become more credible and equal partners in Guyana’s development and through collaborative efforts, expand their support to every region of Guyana.

PAGE 14

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

Essequibo business, farming delegations meet PM

The delegation meets with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

A delegation of rice farmers from the Essequibo Coast, met with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, and discussed matters relating to agriculture. The delegation comprised Compton Sargeant, Hardat Narine, Tage Shewcharon, Darmindra Singh, Mohamed, Naithram and Bhim Sain. They were accompanied by Karan Chand, the Representative of the Prime Minister in Region Two. The farmers applauded the Coalition Government for taking measures to save the last rice crop, but pointed that several outfalls are clogged. This might result in flooding during the current rainy season. Farmers complained that a named rice miller owes them monies for the purchase of their paddy since the previ-

ous crop, and strongly demanded that the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) suspend his export license. The farmers also demanded the dismissal of certain pump attendants who waste fuel and allow irrigation water to flow back into the Pomeroon River. Rice farmers on the Essequibo Coast want fresh elections in the Rice Producers’ Association (RPA) and said that the present leaders of the RPA have not represented their interest. They demanded that the RPA General Secretary Mr. Seeraj, give a full explanation of all monies collected from GRDB and other sources to help rice farmers. The Prime Minister assured that he would raise their concerns with the appropriate authorities.

One year on …

APNU/AFC coalition holding strong - Prime Minister First Vice President and Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, has said that A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition is still holding strong after one year, working for the good of all Guyanese. The Prime Minister during an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), explained that all around the world, it is difficult to maintain coalitions, but the maturity of the leadership of the APNU+AFC alliance has kept it strong. “It must be to the credit of the APNU+AFC that we are able to remain a stable coalition, a strong coalition and not allow the doomsayers, the naysayers to crack us up because you are dealing with an opposition that thrives on misinformation that thrives on any sign of difference in the government,” he said. The Prime Minister explained that the

Cummingsburg Accord, which brought the coalition together to contest the May 11, 2015 National and General elections, has become a true working partnership. The coalition garnered 206,817 votes in the General elections and 201,324 in the Regional elections. They won 33 seats in the National Assembly as against the 32 won by the opposition, People’s Progressive Party Civic. Prime Minister Nagamootoo advised that the Accord will be revised in some parts to strengthen the functions of various officials within the Government. He is reassuring Guyanese that efforts are continuing by all members to ensure the coalition remains strong. The Prime Minister is confident that the coalition will live up to the expectations of Guyanese. “The hope of all Guyanese is that this coalition pulls through and goes the full course,” and added that, “it will survive.”

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 15

Kaieteur News

Gov’t pushing for improved aviation safety standards

- draft Act sent to opposition ...Guyana moves to improve air transport safety Operators in the local aviation sector are set to offer improved safety standards as the government moves to implement an Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Act. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, said that a draft Act is currently with stakeholders for their input and recommendations. Minister Patterson said that all recommendations will be incorporated, and the draft will then be taken to the Cabinet-Sub-committee for Parliamentary Affairs. A draft of the Act was also sent to the opposition party’s shadow Minister of Public Infrastructure, Juan Edghill for input, feedback and recommendations to ensure its approval and smooth passage in Parliament. According to Minister Patterson, Guyana is currently signed onto the effective implementation of the standards and recommended prac-

tices established by the ICAO for the safe and orderly development of the civil aviation sector, and the Act is government’s effort to improve Guyana’s rate of compliance with ICAO. The ICAO recommendations state that air accidents must be a standalone unit and the Ministry of Public Infrastructure is seeking to move the country forward. The minister explained that at the end of the year, “we will have a structured unit for persons to learn from each other. We should be able to investigate and record air accidents independently, which will allow the ICAO to give us a higher grade in compliance.” The regional average compliance of the ICAO is above 70 percent while Guyana’s currently stands at 44 percent. Government’s goal is to move Guyana to 60 percent compliance shortly, Minister Patterson said. In October 2015, the

Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the aviation community attended the aviation conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, to share information and knowledge on advancing aviation through safety, technology and synergies. The objectives of the conference was to provide information and knowledge to the industry regarding advancing aviation through safety and technology, while creating synergies with other sectors for national development, to share experiences and to identify challenges faced by the sector. Challenges were identified at the conference to be addressed by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure for the aviation sector to continue developing, and provide sustainability for economic, social and cultural benefits. The government is committed to the improvement of the civil aviation sector and

“promises that with greater involvement, it can hopefully aid in the standardisation of

operational procedures to ensure equal opportunities are available to all involved,

while negating anti-competitiveness in the industry,” Patterson said. (GINA)

PAGE 16

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2016

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 25

Kaieteur News

Professor, 75, was slain after inviting girl, 17, into home - told her wife would be out Retired professor, Pairadeau Mars, was bound, beaten and strangled last Thursday by a gang of youths shortly after telling a 17-year-old girl to come over to his Prashad Nagar house, since his wife would not be there. Police are in possession of evidence that showed that the 75-year-old had texted the teen to ask her to come over while his spouse was out. In custody last night are two girls, aged 17and 15, and three young men aged between 15 and 18. Police also detained a sixth individual who was allegedly found with an item that the killers had stolen from Mars’s Lot 395 Bissessar Street home. Police recovered a laptop computer, a mobile phone, an Xbox play station, and $20,000 in local currency after arresting the youths, who all reside in Sophia. The teens have reportedly all admitted to robbing Mars, but also claimed that they had not planned to kill him. They are all likely to be charged with murder by Monday. The 17-year-old girl was known to Professor Mars, since she had previously lived a few doors away from the victim. She is also said to have been a frequent visitor to the home where the remigrant and his wife lived. He is said to have often given her small sums of money. The teen has reportedly told police that after receiving a text message from Mars, she contacted her 16-year-old boyfriend and told him that the elderly man would be alone at home, and they could rob him. The boyfriend reportedly then contacted some of his friends, who became involved in the plot. Shortly after 14.00 hrs on Thursday, the 17-year-old and a 15-year-old girl went to Mr. Mars’s residence and were invited in. While the girls were in his study, the elder girl, who had left the front door open, reportedly texted her 17-yearold boyfriend and his associates and told them to enter the house. The other youths reportedly then entered the study and bound Mr. Mars with duct tape. According to a statement given by the 17year-old, the retired professor told the teens to take whatever they wanted, but to spare his life. Instead, some of the youths then gagged the elderly man, then beat and

strangled him. They then gathered up a laptop, play-station, cell phone and $25,000 and other items. After putting the items in suitcases they stopped a passing taxi, which took them to ‘C’ Field, Sophia. Mr. Mars’s wife, Joan Mars, who was in Linden, spoke to her husband by phone at around 14.00 hrs. She failed to contact him after that. At around 19.00 hrs, the woman arrived home and found the front door open. She then entered the study and found her husband slumped in a chair, with his hands and feet duct-taped together. Duct tape was also wrapped around his mouth. Police confirmed that they also found packs of condoms at the scene, as well as sexual stimulants. The retired professor was taken to the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said that members of the public provided police with crucial information which resulted in the arrest of the suspects. Some of the slain man’s neighbours had reportedly told detectives that they had seen the youths arrive at Mr. Mars’s residence and eventually leave with suitcases. Yesterday, relatives of the detained 15-year-old girl recalled that she had left the family’s Sophia home around 14.00 hrs on Thursday to meet her 17-year-old friend, who was staying at her boyfriend’s home in Sophia.

She eventually returned home, but they were unaware that anything was amiss until detectives turned up at their residence Thursday night to take her into custody. The teen reportedly does not attend school and lives with her grandmother. And the mother of the detained 17-year-old girl was still in shock when this newspaper visited her yesterday. The woman said that the teen moved from her home a few months ago. “We had an argument and she moved out and when I saw her back on Mother’s Day she said she living downstairs by her boyfriend and then I told her something and she get vex and she leave again,” the woman said. She added that she had no idea that her daughter was having a relationship with the retired professor until the teen gave police a statement following her arrest. “She (17-year-old suspect) said that the man called her and tell her that his wife in the country but she was not at home. He told her what time to go and when she went there she took a (female) friend (the 15-year-old) with her,” the woman said. The woman added that when the girls got to the man’s home, he asked them to go into the bedroom and take off their clothes. “He was giving them money. He told them he wants to have sex with the two girls, but they refused.” According to the woman, her daughter told the police that when they refused, the man started to harass them

and that’s when the 15-yearold girl texted a friend and a few minutes later, three males barged into the professor’s home. “She said that they tied him up and they started to pack stuff from his home and then her boyfriend left with one of the boys to get a taxi and she and her friend were waiting at the man’s door. She said while waiting, she heard a strange noise and when she turned back she see this boy put a plastic bag over the man’s face and suffocate him.” She said that her daughter told the police that they never planned to kill the man but only to rob him. The woman said that peer pressure got the best of her daughter. And the mother of the detained 16-year-old boy said that her son became wayward after he started a relationship with the 17-year-old girl who allegedly planned the robbery. The woman said that she only agreed for the girl to move into a section of her downstairs so that her son would be in her sight. She said that on Thursday, she went to work and when she got home her son

Murdered: Pairadeau Mars and his older girlfriend were there and everything seemed normal until the police visited their home around midnight. She later learnt that someone was killed and that her son played a part in it. “He told the police that his girlfriend told him that the man give her something to drink and then he had sex with her when she became unconscious.” The woman added that her son said he got an-

gry and decided to go and teach the man a lesson. “He said that he collected two friends and they went to the house to rob. He said that they tied the man up and he and his friend went to get a taxi and when they went back to the house, they see that the man was dead so all of them got into the car and left the house,” the woman said. They then went to a house in Sophia with the stolen items.

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2016

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

Local Govt. Commission to become operational by next month - Minister Bulkan The Local Government Commission, which will oversee, monitor, investigate and examine the actions of the councils, could become operational as soon as next month, according to Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan. In an interview yesterday with the Government Information Agency (GINA,) the Minister of Communities explained that the Ministry is in the process of finalising the names of the persons who would serve on the commission. He said that this will be

wrapped up soon, and facilitate the operation of the Commission by early June. Minister Bulkan stated that the candidates for the Commission have already been identified and shortlisted for review and ratification by Cabinet. “I can tell you, we have identified some very strong, suitably and professionally qualified individuals to be members of that commission,” he said. One of the eight members of the commission had to be appointed by the local government organs through a

parliamentary process which has already been completed, Minister Bulkan explained. Additionally the Leader of the Opposition was recently written to, to provide his three (of the eight) nominees for the commission. He said that the Ministry did have some challenges in identifying an office for the commission, but a location has since been identified. “All things being equal, we expect that at the beginning of June that commission will be operationalised, will be functioning,” Bulkan added.

The legislation for the Local Government Commission came into being in late 2013, but the body’s operationalisation required a commencement order which was not given, up until the end of the last Parliament. The Communities Minister inherited this undertaking, and subsequently provided funding for the Commission’s start-up in the 2016 budget. Minister Bulkan noted that with the operationalisation of the commission, the Ministry will be freed of many of the adminis-

trative issues that have to be dealt with in relation to the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and the municipalities. According to Minister Bulkan, the Ministry will now have time to focus on more strategic issues, including the regions’ management. The Minister also expressed confidence that the commission will be capable of playing a very active and vibrant role to support the work of the local government organs. He also expressed the view that the commission will be able to strengthen the system of local government and local administration.

Minister Ronald Bulkan

PAGE 28

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

President meets with Iwokrama Economic Services Committee halts work on CEO on cash-strapped situation GuySuCo CoI report …Says the sugar company and Government must give commitment to stay all major decisions The Economic Services Committee of the Parliament has taken the decision to halt all of its work on the report coming out of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). This is according to Opposition Member, Irfaan Ali, who serves as one of the members on that Committee. On Thursday, Ali recalled that the Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, had said that the future of GuySuCo would be guided by the outcome of the assessment made by the Economic Services Committee on the CoI report. The Opposition Member reminded of his earlier sentiments that the Committee should not be used as a scapegoat and that its work would be useless if GuySuCo is still moving forward with making major decisions that would affect the livelihood of the workers in that sector. He said that these issues were raised at the last meeting of the Committee. Ali said that it was unanimous among the members that all work in the Committee should come

Opposition Member, Irfaan Ali to a halt until the Government and GuySuCo give a commitment that no action of consequence would be taken in the sector, pending the outcome of the work of the Economic Services Committee. This Committee is chaired by Junior Finance Minister, Jaipaul Sharma. Speaking to Kaieteur News last night, Sharma said that he was not at the meeting when the decision was made in the Commit-

tee. He said that in his absence, Ali had taken over as the Chairperson. The Junior Finance Minister said that the decision was subsequently passed on to him and based on the reasons supplied; he cannot help but agree. He said that he would be writing to the management of GuySuCo to inform the members of the decision which was taken by the Committee.

President David Granger and Chief Executive Officer of the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development, Dr. Dane Gobin at the Ministry of the Presidency yesterday. President David Granger yesterday met with Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development, Dr. Dane Gobin, who updated him on the organisation’s operations. Iwokrama has been experiencing serious financial difficulties and as a result, the

Government appointed a review committee in June last year to investigate its operations and make recommendations on the way forward, particularly as it relates to budget and financing, research and training, governance, and management. Dr. Gobin, according to the Ministry of the Presidency, explained that donor priorities have shifted and as such the Centre needs to develop its own plan, which is economically viable and environmentally sustainable. He said that Guyana’s natural resources management must focus on tourism value. President Granger assured of his unconditional support for Iwokrama, which he said is central to the green agenda that has been identified for Guyana. “It would be a travesty to

allow Iwokrama to collapse when the country is pushing a green agenda…We need to have strong, long-term partnerships that will raise the profile of Guyana,” the President said. Currently, the Centre is operating at 50 percent capacity, having taken a lot of austerity measures including a 30 percent pay cut for senior staff. Last year, the Government had to provide the Centre with a grant of US$100,000 to meet its expenditure, which includes the payment of wages and salaries to staff. The Iwokrama centre was established in 1996 through an agreement by the Government of Guyana and the Commonwealth Secretariat with the aim of managing and preserving 371,000 hectares of pristine rainforest.

Man jailed for not... From page 24 Rodriguez hired taxi driver, Collin Munroe, and on his arrival at Parika he told the man that until he gets his gold sold he wouldn't be able to pay the fee. Police said Munroe waited for the man but he never ap-

peared. Court heard that Munroe went on a search for him but he was nowhere to be found. Rodriguez pleaded guilty to theft of services on Thursday and was remanded to prison until yesterday where he received his sentence.

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

Guyanese life expectancy increased significantly since independence - Health Minister The life expectancy of Guyanese has increased significantly since the country gained its independence. This is according to statistics presented by Minister of Public Health Dr. George Norton. Dr. Norton was at the time speaking at the Health 50

symposium held at the Arthur Chung Convention Center, Liliendaal yesterday. The event was hosted by the PAHO/WHO in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, (MoPH). Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo; Junior Minis-

Parika landlady says police unjust in their investigations - after alleged assault by Chinese national

Ramwattie Safeek An East Bank Essequibo landlady is claiming that the police have been unjust in their investigations after she was allegedly assaulted by a Chinese national – the brother of the tenant to whom she rented the bottom flat of her home to. Ramwattie Safeek, of 1982 Parika Highway, said that she rented the flat to a Chinese couple, Huokai and Jinli Luo, some years ago for the purpose of opening the restaurant that the duo now operates, the “Golden World Restaurant.” Safeek said that she was upstairs in her living room on Tuesday when she heard a loud noise. She then went downstairs to investigate and saw her tenants ripping the plain-sheet off of the roof. The woman said that she asked what they were doing, and they replied that they were taking the material to make a bench. “I say that all you only a break and mek. The Chiney man tell me to get me mother (edit) out the place and he push me out (the flat) and I fall down. He call the (waitresses) to come cuss me.” Safeek said that the contract stipulates that the place

was rented to the duo however; the business is being operated by the brother of Jinli Luo. The matter was taken to the Parika Police Station, Safeek said, and the police “turned” the Chinese man into the victim. Safeek was detained at the police station for some five hours before being released, after her lawyer called the station. Safeek said that she is “fed up” with the conduct of the occupants who have the flat in a deplorable state. “Meh tell (the sanitary inspector) how the place nasty and they not doing anything. The Chiney lady say that how she got $100,000 to pay (Sanitary inspector); how nobody can’t close she down.” Safeek said that she is now in a fix because she cannot read and write and the contract stipulates that the occupants have until 2023, when the contract expires. She said that after the report was made, the police dismissed her suggestion to “run the tapes” since the property is equipped with security cameras. Safeek said that the police never took a statement from her while the assailant was sent home.

ter, Dr. Karen Cummings; Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud; and PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow, were among the distinguished guests. The Health Minister gave an overview of the achievements and challenges faced in Guyana’s health sector over the past 50 years. “The wealth of a nation is its people’s health and as we prepare to celebrate Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of Independence, it is an opportune time for us to reflect on the progressive journey of the health sector over the past 50 years,” Norton remarked. Dr. Norton underscored, “Our health sector over the years has been filled with many challenges, but also with many successes.” The Minister noted that over the last five decades, Guyana’s health sector significantly advanced and has been able to achieve a greater life expectancy. “Life expectancy has risen from 40 in the 1960s to 61 by 1970 and that remained the same by 1990. This has now increased to 64 for males and 71 for females, as per 2014 statistics. “This was made possible due to improvements in health care delivery,” Dr. Norton posited. The Minister outlined that in the early independence

era, there were considerable challenges with food and nutrition. This, he said, was a major focus in the public health sector, in order to address malnutrition challenges. Also, in the early days of independence, Norton said the Ministry focused on addressing sanitation matters. “A culture of unhygienic practices allowed many diseases, especially those which are vectorborne, to thrive. This issue still persists today.” However, in addition, the boost in the life expectancy, the Ministry of Public Health is the mastering of the immunization process. The Ministry boasts the best immunisation programme in the region, with a vaccination coverage of over 90 per cent for all antigens for the underfive population. “However, we have not become complacent and every year the Expanded Programme on Immunization receives millions of dollars for the purchasing of vaccines, equipment and services to ensure the safe delivery of the vaccination process.” “Over the past 50 years, we have seen the building of new and the modernizing and upgrading of previously existing hospitals and health care facilities, the training of

Minister of Public Health Dr. George Norton medical professionals and so much more,” Norton added. The Minister noted that the focus of the sector has now shifted to issues such as mental health, chronic diseases, emerging infectious diseases and HIV and AIDS. These issues, among others, he said, are being tackled head-on using robust Strategies and Action Plans, chief among them being the Health Vision 2020. “The vision is that all people of Guyana are among the healthiest in the Caribbean and the Americas” by the year 2020. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a resilient health care system in which Guyanese

are provided with health services that are as accessible, acceptable, affordable, timely and appropriate as possible. “We are also fully committed to working towards reaching the sustainable Development Goals as we lay the foundation for a new development agenda.” “It is our duty to work together to ensure that current and future generations are afforded the opportunity to experience a health sector in which the successes by far o u t weigh the challenges,” he said Minister Norton also lauded PAHO/WHO for its collaborative efforts with government and health sector.

PAGE 30

SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 SERVICES

WANTED

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620

Wamara Logs, fresh cut Call: 648-1619; 664-5150

Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVEMARKETING& PUBLISHINGINC–TEL:6004212: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:6294946 or 225-4822 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar Stunning designs with largest variety of plants by experienced landscapers! Call: 219-0468 / 648-1821 Building Construction: house plans & estimates, floor sanding, lacquering & painting, boat for Santa Mission –Call: 650-4362 Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045 Qualified Electrician Available: general services, installations, wiring, pervencial maintenance, emergency, residential, commercial & industrial. Call Ray: 653-4013 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Professional US/Canadian visa services by appointments only. Call: 6645153/weekend bookings: canadavisaprogram@yahoo.com

PEN-PAL Good looking, tall, God fearing female interested in dating handsome Canadian Bachelor for friendship/ marriage/migration. Call: 614-5652

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

Male janitors/porters -$2,000 per day-Call: 225-2618 Experienced cashiers, counter servers, waiters, roti/ puri cook, pastry maker/ .Apply at Hack’s Halaal Restaurant, 5 Commerce St.

Earn certificate in: cosmetology, nails, wig designs or hair cutting, etc. Register Now! Call Abby: 666-5241; 619-7603 Signature Sensation Beauty Salon: 50/50 special on services for $1000. Call: 2258701; 622-2643

One able bodied male clerk Call: 231-2029; 219-4533 Experienced Mechanic preferably on East Bank-Call: 666-8121; 265-3424 Cashiers/salesperson to work in general store on East Coast. Call Nalinie: 625-8662; 699-0143 Salesgirls, Porters & Watchman. Apply with written application @ Best Buys Food Supplies, 1E Dennis & Middleton Streets, Campbellville. One boy to assist in a shop in the Interior. Call: 678-0565 Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665 One female domestic must know to prepare Indian & English Dishes to work in the Bel-Air area. Call: 223-9888; 664-3507 Gasoline and light diesel mechanic needed. Call: 6230318 Experienced dispatcher and hire car drivers @ Princess Hotel Providence. Call: 2657075; 616-5419 1 Live in waitress must have secondary education, know to use cash register -$70,000$80,000 monthly. Call: 6103974 Live in waitress to work in a bar @ Berbice- Call: 6046606;692-4649 Land to buy in La Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt, Zeelugt and Tuschen, Best Price offer. Call: 642-1252 Experienced general domestic to work in G/town. Must know to prepare Indian dishes, honest & pleasant. Call: 656-6388 1 Hire car to work & keep $18,000-$21,000 –Call: 6993499 Land to buy @ La Parfaite Harmonie, Providence, Eccles, Tuschen, Uitvlugt. Best price & cash. Call: 604-6724

FOR SALE

FOR RENT

Flat house in Grove, (corner property) 1 Block from main road, price negotiable. Call: 1905-626-2572

LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620

Sheep! Sheep! A flock of sheep (Texana), foreign blood line. Call: 699-6499; 665-2139; 442-0299

1 Business to rent, 1-2 bedrooms new houses to rent immediately @ W.C.D. Call: 276-0818

Labradors, Rottweilers, German Shepherd & Chow Chow. Call: 680-6426

Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park 1 &2 bedrooms, recently renovated, free WiFi -$70,000. Preferably working individuals. Call: 641-3318 2 Bedrooms apartment to rent in Diamond for more information. Call: 6760037

Transported property @ Grove $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 Vreed-en-Hoop -$45M, Anna Catherina -$9.5M, $12.5, Boreseree -$6.5M, Uitvlugt $4.5M, Tuschen -$4.5M. Call: 642-1252 Prime Business spot @ Anna Catherina, Public Road. Call: 667-2536; 628-0016 Property @ Block 8 Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara -$16M. Call: 654-4312; 657-5330

1 Female cleaner @ Technical Services - Call: 233-2783 1 General Domestic age 2845 with cooking experienced Call: 614-4358

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Property @ Cummings Street; 4 storey building, club, 8 self contain rooms. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536 WANTED 1 General worker to work shift-Call: 218-1400

Transported property in Regent Street between Wellington & Camp. Call: 625-1514

Driver/Salesman: experienced is an asset - interested persons call: 226-9800

La Parfaite Harmonie: $6M, $5M, $20M, New Road -$17M, $15M, C.I -$6M, Pouderoyen $45M. Terms available on lands. Call: 604-6724

We pay cash for residential house lots: Eccles, Farm, Bartica, La Parfaite Harmonie, Herstelling & Other areas. Call: 604-2207; 611-7223 Dispatchers. Call: 622-0622; 680-2181; 226-8055 between 9am-6pm

4 Bedroom property @ Enterprise, 3 bathrooms, 2 garage, pressurized system, overhead tanker, generator, etc. Call: 600-6195

Land to buy at Mocho, Second Bridge, two at Farm & 2 at Herstelling. Call: 2660693; 611-3398

One 125CC XR for sale $270,000–Call: 699-7870; 6988503 Complete range of household items, owner migrating, items available immediately & Toyota Voxy 4WD mid-PTT. Call: 609-8640 Whole sale pork for sale-Call: 644-8396 Dachshund puppies, dewormed- $15,000. Call: 2160521/694-3567 One Toyota Minibus (BJJ series). Contact Kelvin: 677-7910

1 Complete high volume 3 stage water purification system, UV light, water tanks, reasonably price, owner migrating. Call: 649-8430

Freezer, 2 doors cooler, food warmer, industrial stove, pots & all equipment for restaurant Call: 698-7438; 678-4724

1 Cleaner to work in snackette & bar. Must know to cookbetween ages 20-35 -Call: 6477432/ 223-5798

Muscovy Ducklings-Call: 254-1768 or 602-7203

Arc/Acetylene Welder 10yrs. Plus machine shop experienced. Call: 227-1830 (57pm)

Rotweiler pups - 622-6646/ 652-8511 Pure white husky - 619-6086/ 699-7077 LAND FOR SALE

GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS) CAKES & PASTRIES Courses in cake decoration, pastry making & cookery; also edible images and Wedding dresses for sale. Call: 670-0798 FOR SALE/RENT American pool table - Call: 277-0578

FOR SALE 1-4 Piece queen size bedroom set, 1 bed, 1 wardrobe, 1 vanity, 1 chest of draw ( price-$100,000), 1 parker ($50,000). Call: 6731350 One 15HP Yamaha outboard engine -$200,000 negotiable, one 5HP Yamaha, outboard engine -$100,000 negotiable. Call: 688-7017; 628-2692

One Red RX8 Motor Car, fully loaded music set, new tyres & mags- hardly usedexcellent condition- Call: 6802095; 261-5401

Fitter/Machinist; Arc/ Acetylene welders -35yrs plus high rates if qualifiedCall: 227-1830

TAXI SERVICES

Three bedrooms top flat @ 20 Peter’s Hall Public Road, East Bank. Call: 233-6930

Mouldings, spindles, hand rails, pine cupboard doors 16X27 -$3200 (knot free)Call: 621-1278

YAMAHA 600CC BIKE 2013 FULLY REGISTERED. CALL ELIAS: 628-3003; 667-4845; 610-0068

Chilly’s Bar wanted waitress, apply in person @ lot 7 Public Road Ruimveldt, G/Town.

Vreed-en-Hoop Junction: church, office, lessons place, storage bond, private school, others -$20,000- Call: 603-6400

Land @ La Grange Public Road to Sea Dam 4 Acres for commercial or Housing Scheme-Call: 625-1514

One 6X6 logging truck (alligator type) very good condition -$4M negotiable. Call: 621-5950; 602-9068

High value transported land, Greater Diamond, E.B.D $8.5M. Call: 684-7234

Pit-bull Puppies for sale, mother & father from Hubu. Call: 601-5374

Bartica (corner lot) $2.8M; Eccles -$5.5M, Herstelling (corner lot) -$3M, La Parfaite-$1.3M & $2M. Call: 611-7223; 604-2207

1 Houselot at Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank, Main Street (50X100) – Call: 6993499

Tuschen -$1.2M, Zeelugt $1.2M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.2M, Herstelling –$5M. (All prices negotiable). Call: 642-1252

1 New model IST, PTT $1.7M negotiable, 1 new model Allion PSS -$2.5M negotiable, 1R6 Yamaha CD $600,000 negotiable. Call: 622-7201

CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807 Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494 MASSAGE Relaxing Massage Therapy Services. Call: 674-8147 (Continued on page 31)

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

We must celebrate the 50th anniversary with nuff laugh DEAR EDITOR, It cannot be denied that, generally speaking, Guyanese are among the most friendly and hospitable people in the world. It is so refreshing to “bounce up” with a fellow Guyanese in New York, Toronto, or London, especially on a bitterly cold winter day. A lively conversation is bound to follow coupled with a few jokes to boot. The bonechilling cold is still felt, but there is now an unmistakable surge of spontaneous joy and a glow in the heart. Such is the power of genuine human interaction and fellowship, as real and substantial as the power of the atom. It is this type of human interaction, natural, real, spontaneous and care-free, that is so lacking in the metropolitan cities of the world. The ubiquitous I-phone and other related devices

have brought face–to-face human interaction to a new low. So often have I witnessed the strange spectacle of a commuter train packed with people (like sardines) but with hardly any human conversation. How can people be so oblivious of their fellow human beings that they can scare find a few minutes to strike up a conversation? It is so paradoxical that these wonderful devices that have made the world so small (like unto a global village), have also distanced people from each other. Now we are more connected than ever, but we are also more lonely and isolated. The growing reliance on technological devices rather than face to face communication is a very alarming and dangerous situation, and it has already stifled and made empty and superficial our re-

lationships. When we relate to people, especially from different backgrounds and cultures, we become enriched with knowledge and understanding that cannot be obtained from books. We are first and foremost gregarious beings; we can only grow and achieve our destiny by bonding together in love and harmony. Therefore, it is most apt and fitting that our national motto is: “ONE PEOPLE, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY”. Growing up in a small village, I was exposed to the full spectrum of human interaction and behavior. But what I enjoyed most were the laughter and jokes of the villagers. Guyanese can easily find the comical and funny side in any situation. We have a natural tendency to laugh without being encumbered by morbid social conventions and rules

of etiquette. Guyanese are smart enough to know that life is too serious to be taken seriously. It is far better to laugh at situations (and more often at ourselves) than to carry a baggage of hatred, regrets and animosity. A good laugh is potent medicine for body, mind and soul and is equally accessible to the rich and the poor. When under stress we produce a hormone called cortisol. A good belly laugh lowers cortisol levels and returns the body to a more relaxed state. Norman Cousins in his book “Anatomy of an Illness” described how he cured himself of a debilitating disease by the use of laughter. As we celebrate the Golden Jubilee, let us also celebrate those good old time laughter and jokes. CECIL RAMKIRATH

A CANADIAN EDUCATOR’S... From page 4 accomplishments of the APNU-AFC coalition, now observing the first anniversary of its election to government, and its pride is justified. Another positive, if the pro-coalition press is to be believed, is the new regime’s stated commitment to “inclusive governance” exemplified by the creation of a new ministerial portfolio of “social cohesion.” The current administration is the first in Guyana’s post-independence history that at least in theory, embraces the notion that all of the country’s ethno-cultural groups should have an equal seat at the table, after so many decades when one has been pitted against the other. This distrust and enmity has all-too-often been manipulated by politicians from both of the nation’s main political parties for their own cynical ends. Without pointing the finger of blame in any particular direction, this stark reality in my view represents the tragic “original sin” of the nation’s difficult birth fifty years ago. It is a vexing and burdensome legacy that the current generation of civic leaders and citizens in general, must address and examine honestly if this country is ever to achieve real progress in the future. I hope that leading political figures do not ignore this “elephant in the room” in their public addresses as the anniversary looms. As for the negatives, I will

refrain from harping on the crime issue, although unfortunately this is often at the forefront when diaspora Guyanese in Canada and elsewhere explain to me why they are reluctant to return to their country of birth, fearing for both their personal safety and that of their pocket books. According to some published reports, the rate of violent crime is actually declining here, a fact that loyal readers of the main newspapers, myself included, might find hard to believe. It is an old journalistic maxim that “if it bleeds it

leads” and perhaps the widespread and graphic coverage of violent crimes is meant to satisfy a prurient hunger for sensationalism, a phenomenon found in many countries besides Guyana, including my own. This can lead to the misperception that crime is on the increase, when the data might in fact point in the opposite direction. I would only suggest that violent crime anywhere is directly linked to poverty and economic inequality, whether the country in question is Canada or Guyana. I have

addressed the issue of the wide chasm between this country’s “haves” and “have-nots” in previous letters, and it should be on the top of the new government’s agenda. Guyana is potentially a very rich country, whose ample resources and opportunities have been negligently squandered and scandalously mismanaged, by political parties of both stripes, and should be far more equitably shared and distributed than they are at present. Dr. Peter Flaherty Faculty of Education York University, Canada

Water could not have... From page 4 rainfall during the 24-hour period to prevent flooding of the City? Are channels being widened and deepened to store rainfall before overtopping starts and/or pumps being installed to assist the sluices get rid of the excess water when their doors are closed or the City could expect much of the same? Finally, after a year in office the APNU+AFC Govt. has become indifferent to the needs of the people, created confusion and is groping in the dark to resolve the drainage problems of Georgetown and low-lying coastal areas as no comprehensive development plan has been prepared while a plethora of agencies (NDIA, MPI, M&CC, Prime Minister’s Office, Conservancies’ Boards, Sea Defence Board, NDC’s) some with and

without statutory responsibilities have been dabbling with drainage problems as the necessity arise. President Granger should be aware that many of these agencies do not have the expertise, technical know-how and financial resources to deal with complex drainage problems and unless he brings order to deal with the

flooding of coastal lowlands including Georgetown in a comprehensive and knowledge way, rainy seasons will continue to wreak havoc to farmlands and homesteads as poor families suffer from flood losses of the little they have as the Govt. inconsiderately seeks their patience, understanding and cooperation. Charles Sohan

From page 30

VACANCY Popular East Coast Gas Station Day/Night: pump attendants, sales clerk & office assistant. Contact: 6719570; 695-9880,Non-Pareil Exist at Confidential Cabs for one experienced dispatcher. Call: 231-5784 Cook/baker for the Interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020 Need a job? Call JFWW (local & international) earn -$5,000$20,000 daily –#233-6517; 638-0595; 622-1957 MondayFriday 9am-5pm/ www.jobfairworldwide.com Female secretary must be 2535yrs, computer literate & at least Grade 2 in English. Call: 643-4049 One Driver and one cashier: apply @ Mike’s Pharmacy, Lot 1 Bel-Air, Embankment Road. CLEANING LADY FOR OFFICE: MATURE, HONEST& FOCUS ON THE JOB. POLICE CLEARANCE & REFERENCE A MUST. CALL: 231-8529/ 231-8344 Sales Representative (with valid license); Labourers & Driver (with valid license)Apply: jkeshwani.alesie @gmail.com Call: 269-0026/ 269-0058 Female office assistant for 2 months -$28,000 per month – Call: 626-6722

VEHICLE FOR SALE Toyota WILL VS-low mileage, 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250r- imported from the USA, low mileage. Call: 674-9002 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BRR, RZ & Pitbull,Pajero Junior: Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 One Toyota IST 2007 Model, PRR series, female driven, in excellent condition. Call: 678-2495 & 692-1999 Toyota Fun Cargo, AT212, AT192, RZ, 4 Door Canter, Wagon (Suzuki Viatara 4WD) Nissan pickup 2008 unregistered. Call: 644-5096; 697-1453 15 Seater pit-bull -$2M- Call: 697-2550; 613-1810 One 212 -$1.1M, one long base canter-$2.3M, One RZ minibus long base -$1M. Call: 604-6724 Honda Civic motor car, 250cc Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle- Call: 696-2815 Toyota Hilux Surf 3Y fuel injected automatic transmission. Call: 600-6195

Outdoor Driver/salesmen for established brands. Must Have Lorry/Car/Van License & Merchandisers with experience. Call: 617-1809 Waiters/Waitress/Cashiers with 3yrs experience. Contact 222-7375/660-5839 for interview

EDUCATIONAL Private Tutoring is available for all age groups-Contact Ms Cort on 672-0348 for details. Earn a Diploma in Computers (9 Courses) -$20,000 off for 2016 CXC students @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 264-3057

TO LET Fully furnished 2 storey house with 3 AC bedrooms, security & sensor lights, etc @ Gated Community. Call: 668-8714; 685-5845 LAND FOR SALE La Parfaite Harmonie-$1M, $1.3M, $1.6M, Providence$4M, $4.5M, Eccles -$5M, New Road- $15M, Tuschen -$1.3M, $2M. Call: 604-6724

Compuerizes Accounting (4 Courses): QuickBooks, Peachtree, POS, Excel 2016 @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 264-3057 Computer Classes for Common Entrance 2016 Students (9 Courses) @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 264-3057 LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997

Kaieteur News

PAGE 32

Saturday May 14, 2016

Temer govt. vows 'change of course' for Brazil Brasília (AFP) - Brazilian interim president Michel Temer's new cabinet promised to blaze a new path yesterday to revive L a t i n A m e r i c a ' s l a rg e s t economy after a string of crises put an end to 13 years of leftist rule. As workers took down portraits of suspended president Dilma Rousseff, who faces an impeachment trial in the Senate, Temer's ministers held their first meeting in the presidential palace in Brasilia. Ministers said afterwards that the new priorities would be to create a leaner government, balance finances, and root out the corruption that a huge judicial probe has uncovered at the highest levels of Brazilian politics and business. "We're living through the worst economic crisis in the history of Brazil," said chief of staff Eliseu Padilha. "People took to the streets to seek two things: they wanted a state without corruption and they wanted an efficient state," he said, referring to mass protests against Rousseff.

Brazil's interim-president Michel Temer "Out with corruption and in with efficiency," he added, admitting achieving that would be "very difficult." Finance Minister Henrique Meirelles, the man tasked with restoring confidence in Brazil's economy, said the country demanded a "change of course," which he vowed to bring by cutting spending. He pledged not to cut the popular social programmes launched under the sidelined

Workers' Party (PT) -- initiatives credited with helping lift tens of millions of people from poverty -as long as beneficiaries really need them. But he warned: "Maintaining a social programme doesn't mean maintaining the misuse of a social programme. We will make a rigorous evaluation of how social programmes are being used." Temer faces many of the same stumbling blocks as his predecessor -- plus a few of his own. Political analysts warned his honeymoon may not even last until he opens the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro on August 5 -- South America's first. He is just about as disliked as the deeply unpopular Rousseff. A recent poll found he would receive just two percent of the vote in a presidential election. Temer will also face a deeply hostile left resentful over what it calls the "coup" against Brazil's first woman president. He appealed Thursday for "dialogue" to heal the wounds of the impeachment battle, but stoked opponents' outrage with his cabinet

appointments: all 23 of his ministers are white men. "We tried to search for women but because of the timetable… it was not possible," Padilha said. He said the absence of female ministers would be compensated by putting women in non-cabinetlevel jobs that have "a similar importance." Another controversy erupted over the decision to axe the culture ministry and lump it together with education. The move was attacked in an open letter from an association of well-known artists including renowned singers Chico Buarque, Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil -who was himself culture minister from 2003 to 2008. Temer is also vulnerable to the swirling scandal at state oil company Petrobras, which has snared top members of both his party, the PMDB, and Rousseff's PT. Temer, 75, is not under investigation himself. But three of his ministers are, and witnesses have implicated several others. Opponents have warned that Temer could try to choke off the

probe, and those suspicions were fueled late Thursday when the Supreme Court suspended its decision to open an investigation into Senator Aecio Neves, the leader of the center-right PSDB party -- a key ally for Temer. Temer also faces an awkward period of coexistence with Rousseff, whose impeachment trial will last up to six months. She has vowed to fight to the end, and called on her supporters Thursday to mobilize in her defense. A onetime Marxist guerrilla tortured under Brazil's military dictatorship in the 1970s, Rousseff was suspended over allegations she illegally used loans from state banks to boost public spending and hide the depth of the budget deficit during her 2014 reelection campaign. She claims the accounting maneuver was commonly accepted practice in Brazil and is not an impeachable offense. But she lost the Senate vote 55 to 22. Rousseff, who is holed up in the official presidential residence plotting her defense, was due to give a press conference of her own in the afternoon.

Trinidad and Tobago enjoys Cayman Islands premier calls trade deficit with Jamaica for end to global hypocrisy KINGSTON, Jamaica CMC – Jamaica imported goods worth J$13.4 billion (One Jamaica dollar =US$0.008 cents) from Trinidad and Tobago during the first quarter of this year, Finance Minister Audley Shaw has said. Shaw, presenting the budget statement to Parliament on Thursday, said that Jamaica only exported J$178.9 million worth of goods to the oil rich twin-island Republic during the same period. “A further detailed analysis now shows that of the 178 million that we exported to Trinidad and Tobago only 23 million dollars representing 12.9 per cent of our exports of 178.9 million was real goods produced in Jamaica,” Shaw told legislators. The two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries have in recent weeks been at odds over immigration matters with Jamaican businesses calling for a boycott of goods and services from Port of Spain. Shaw told Parliament that Jamaica's export bill to Trinidad and Tobago has, for the first four months of the

Audley Shaw year, amounted to a mere 1.3 per cent. “”The most stark contrast which reveals the decline in Jamaica's productivity and export competitiveness is dramatically highlighted in the recent trade figures January 1 – April 30 of this year 2016, between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.” Shaw said that the data used to look at the trade between the two countries came through Jamaica Custom's new Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA). “When our exports to Trinidad and Tobago are further analysed, we find that we only exported a paltry J$23 million, representing

12.9 per cent of total exports to Trinidad and Tobago in the period,” said Shaw. He said the real goods produced in Jamaica and exported to Trinidad and Tobago totals a measly 0.0174 per cent of Trinidad and To b a g o ' s t o t a l exports to Jamaica. Shaw suggested that a prime example of Jamaica's lack of growth is its regional trading experience. “Apart from the J$23 million of real exports, we have only exported so – air in these empty tanks,” he said, adding “this paints a picture of the seriousness of our situation, which must be addressed. “It is important that I clearly demonstrate the consequences of such low rates of growth over long periods,” he said, noting that it was Albert Einstein who once called 'compounding' the most powerful force in the universe. “For example, if Jamaica had kept just a three per cent average growth rate over the last 25 years, our per capita GDP (gross domestic product) would be double our present per capita GDP.

LONDON, England (CNS) -- The Cayman Islands premier has called on the world's nations attending the anticorruption summit in London to stop the hypocrisy regarding the fight against financial crime and make standards truly global. Alden McLaughlin did not name the United States but he made it clear that any new international standard had to apply to major countries as well as smaller jurisdictions, otherwise the fight would be lost. McLaughlin, who was invited to interject during one of the summit sessions, said there was no point continuing the rhetoric if major countries were excluded from the agreed standards. While the summit has been criticised for not nailing down all of the British territories to an open public register of beneficial owners, in the Cayman Islands, opposition leader McKeeva Bush has taken to Facebook to accuse the premier and financial services minister Wayne Panton of lying to the people

Alden McLaughlin and, by agreeing to be part of a wider global exchange on beneficial ownership, of destroying Cayman's offshore sector. On Wednesday, the Cayman Islands government announced that it was prepared to widen the deal it has with the UK for the exchange of ownership details with the relevant authorities to other countries but was still not prepared to establish a central public register unless and until it becomes the worldwide agreed system. Speaking at the summit, McLaughlin told representatives and leaders from around the world that Cayman's historic

cooperation and credentials in the fight against corruption could not be seriously challenged anymore and the jurisdiction had earned its right to be at the table to help in the development of any new future global standards. However, he made it clear that whatever is agreed had to apply to all. “In order to be successful and to seriously tackle corruption and not just pay lip service to it, we in this room and beyond must be committed to creating a standard that is truly global. It is time to put behind us the shades of hypocrisy which … have been part and parcel of the global discussion on this issue for years and years,” he said. Without naming the United States, he added, “If those countries with real political clout on the world stage continue to focus only on smaller jurisdictions … while ignoring obvious jurisdictions that ought to be part of the conversation, the result will be continued failure.” (Caribbean News)

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 31

Ex-Argentine leader Fernandez Warning of downward spiral, IMF sees no economic upside to Brexit indicted in central bank case

F

ormer Argentine President Cristina Fernandez was indicted yesterday over accusations that she oversaw irregularities in the central bank's sale of U.S. dollars in the futures market while she was in office. Federal Judge Claudio Bonadio charged Fernandez, her former economy minister Axel Kicillof and former central bank chief Alejandro Vanoli with "unfaithful administration to the detriment of public administration," according to court papers. The ruling, which gives a green light for prosecutors to put Fernandez on trial, may be appealed. There was no arrest warrant. The accusation is that the central bank took billions of dollars worth of moneylosing positions in the futures market ahead of a widely expected devaluation of the Argentine peso. Fernandez, who heads a large faction of the Peronist party, stepped down in December at the end of her second term. Her successor, Mauricio

Former Argentine President Cristina Fernandez

Mac ri, won the presidency on a platform of ditching currency controls that he said were strangling the economy. Since lifting the controls in mid-December the peso has weakened by about 30 percent to 14.1575 per U.S. dollar. Fernandez last month accused the Macri government of political persecution after testifying in court about the central bank's dollar-buying operations. The transactions referred to in the case involved $5 billion to $17 billion, according to court papers published by Argentina's Judicial Information Center (CIJ).

"It's impossible to believe that a financial operation of this size ... could have been carried out without the approval of the highest executive level of the national government," the ruling said. Fernandez is revered by millions for the generous welfare programs she offered while in office and reviled by others for economic policies such as nationalizing businesses and placing heavy-handed controls on the economy. "The indictment was not unexpected, but politically, it creates noise," said Ignacio Labaqui, who analyses Argentina for emerging markets consultancy Medley Global Advisors. "Peronism is going through a leadership crisis and this could make the divisions within the party more acute." The indictment of Fernandez came a day after the president of neighboring Brazil, Dilma Rousseff, was suspended from office by the Senate while she is tried on charges of breaking budget rules.

(Reuters) - International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde said yesterday there were no economic positives to Britain leaving the European Union and that the impact would range from "pretty bad to very, very bad". Her blunt warning came as the IMF said the country risks falling into a spiral of weaker economic growth, lower house prices and diminished foreign investment if voters opt to leave the European Union after the referendum next month. The fund, in an annual report on Britain's economy, said an exit vote would "precipitate a protracted period of heightened uncertainty, leading to financial market volatility and a hit to output." A sudden stop to investment in key sectors of the economy such as commercial real estate and finance could exacerbate Britain's record-high current account deficit, the report said. "Such market reactions could sharply contract economic activity, further depressing asset prices in a self-reinforcing cycle," the Fund said. It also repeated a warning that a Brexit shock could upset the global economy. British voters have been bombarded with Brexit warnings in recent weeks. On Thursday, the Bank of England said the economy would slow sharply, and possibly even enter a brief recession, a possiblility

backed by Lagarde yesterday. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has also warned that IMF British voters risk chief paying a "Brexit Christine tax" equivalent to a Lagarde month's salary by 2020 if they leave the EU. Lagarde said the Fund would publish detailed forecasts for the size of a Brexit hit to Britain's economy probably on June 16, a week before the referendum and the same day that finance minister George Osborne and BoE Governor Mark Carney are due to make high-profile speeches at the annual Mansion House dinner. "LAUGHABLE" Anti-EU campaigners hit back at the IMF quickly, questioning the Fund's authority when it comes to forecasting. "Very few people in the media ever pause to ask that question, but its track record is laughable," Arron Banks, a co-founder of the Leave.EU group, said. "Its forecasts are never right, it backed the euro and it didn't see the financial crisis coming." Vote Leave, the official "Out" campaign, said Britain was being bullied by the IMF. So far, the barrage of warnings about the economy do not appear to have swayed many voters. Opinion polls show Britons believe staying in the EU would be best for the economy but they are more or less evenly split on how they intend to vote. L a g a r d e defended the Fund's decision to publish a report that closely echoed At least four prominent figures in the warnings of Hezbollah have been killed since Prime Minister January 2015. A number of high-ranking David Cameron Iranian officers have also been killed, a n d f i n a n c e either fighting Syrian insurgents or in minister Osborne Israeli attacks. who worked Hezbollah said it was investigating c l o s e l y w i t h whether the explosion at the base was Lagarde when she caused by an air strike, a missile attack or w a s F r a n c e ' s artillery bombardment. It did not say finance minister. when he was killed. "We are not "This is an open war and we should doing it out of not preempt the investigation but politics, this is not certainly Israel is behind this," said the job of the IMF. Nawar al-Saheli, a Hezbollah member of We're doing it Lebanon's parliament, hinting at the b e c a u s e i t ' s a prospect of retaliation: "The resistance s i g n i f i c a n t will carry out its duties at the appropriate downside risk. And time." second, it's not just Israel never confirms or denies a domestic issue ... allegations of targeted killings of it's an international individuals abroad. When asked by an issue," she said. interviewer on Israel Radio about The IMF said possible Israeli involvement, cabinet Britain, after a minister Zeev Elkin, a confidant of Brexit vote, could Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, t a k e y e a r s t o declined to comment. renegotiate trade Hezbollah is Lebanon's most deals with the EU powerful political and military group, a n d o t h e r having grown stronger since forcing countries, hitting Israel to end its 22-year occupation of investment and southern Lebanon in 2000. The sides weighing heavily fought a 34-day war in 2006, their last o n e c o n o m i c major conflict. sentiment.

Top Hezbollah commander killed in Damascus blast (Reuters) - Hezbollah's top military commander Mustafa Badreddine has been killed in a blast at a base near Damascus airport, the Lebanese Shi'ite group said yesterday, one of the biggest blows to its leadership the Iranianbacked organisation has ever sustained. Hezbollah did not immediately say who it blamed for the attack, but its deputy leader Sheikh Naim Qassem said there were clear indications of who was behind it, and the group would announce the outcome of its investigation within hours. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. At least one Hezbollah figure blamed the group's age-old enemy Israel, which has struck Hezbollah targets in Syria several times in the past since civil war started there in 2011. Israel declined to comment, but a former Israeli official said his country would be glad Badreddine was dead. Hezbollah also has many other foes in Syria, where it fights in support of the government of President Bashar alAssad against a range of Sunni Muslim groups including Islamic State. Thousands of Hezbollah fighters and leaders gathered at a mosque in Hezbollah's stronghold in southern Beirut and gave Badreddine a military funeral, waving Hezbollah flags. They chanted Shi'ite religious slogans, as well

Hezbollah members carry a picture of top commander Mustafa B adreddine, who was killed in an attack in Syria. (Reuters/Jamal Saidi) as "Death to America" and "Death to Israel". Speaking at the funeral, Qassem also vowed that the group would continue on the "path" of Badreddine. In a letter, Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif extended condolences "for the martyrdom of this great jihadist ... who embodied devotion and vigour and was legendary in his defence of high Islamic goals and his defence of the Lebanese people who resist oppression and terrorism." The U.S. government believed Badreddine, 55, was in charge of

Hezbollah's military operations in Syria. He is the most senior Hezbollah official killed since 2008 when his brother-in-law, long-serving military commander Imad Moughniyah, was blown up by a bomb planted in his car in Damascus that Hezbollah blamed on Israel. The latest killing follows other recent losses for Hezbollah and Iran in Syria, despite Russian military intervention in support of Assad and his allies in a five year multi-sided civil war that has drawn in neighbouring states and world powers.

PAGE 34

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

Venezuela looters target chicken, flour amid worsening shortages

Venezuela looters target chicken, flour amid worsening shortages SAN CRISTOBAL, Venezuela (Reuters) - Mobs in Venezuela have stolen flour, chicken and even underwear this week as looting increases across the crisis-hit OPEC nation where many basic products have run short. Many people now get up in the dead of night to spend hours in long lines in front of supermarkets. But as more end up empty-handed and black market prices soar, plundering is rising in Venezuela, already one of the world’s most violent countries. There is no official data, but rights group Venezuelan Observatory for Social Conflict reported 107 episodes of looting or attempted looting in the first quarter. Videos of crowds breaking into shops, swarming onto trucks or fighting over products frequently make the rounds on social media, though footage is often hard to confirm.

In one of the latest incidents, several hundred people looted a truck carrying kitchen rolls, salt and shampoo after it crashed and some of its load tumbled out in volatile Tachira state on Thursday, according to a local official and witnesses. Fifteen people were injured, including six security officials trying to restrain the crowd, said local civil protection official Luis Castrillon. “There was a big scuffle ... There were shots in the air and they fired tear gas,” said witness Manuel Cardenas, 40. Such scenes are adding to an increasingly dire panorama in the South American oil exporter, where inflation is the highest in the world, the economy has been shrinking since early 2014, and there are frequent power and water cuts. President Nicolas Maduro blames the crisis on

Bahamas condemns Panama Papers leak NASSAU, Bahamas - CMC – The Bahamas says it remains committed to cooperating internationally on dealing with fraudulent financial transactions and questioned why the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) recently published the names of structures formed in The Bahamas and other international financial centres under the so called “Panama Papers”. The Ministry of Financial Services in a statement, said it had noted that the publication came with a disclaimer which stated “There are legitimate uses for offshore companies and trusts. “We do not intend to suggest or imply that any persons, companies or other entities included in the ICIJ Offshore Leaks Database have broken the law or otherwise acted improperly.” The authorities here said given the disclaimer “the question comes to mind as to why publish a list at all? “What is the motive? Without more the leak appears to be a gratuitous attempt to convey a negative impression of The Bahamas as an International Financial Centre,” the Ministry said in the statement.

the fall in global oil prices, a drought that has hit hydroelectric power generation and an “economic war” by rightwing businessmen and politicians. But the opposition say he and his predecessor Hugo Chavez are to blame for disastrous statist economic policies. They are pushing for a recall referendum this year to remove Maduro, 53, and trigger a new election. In other looting incidents this week, a group of hooded motor bikers tried, also on Thursday, to steal some 650 sacks of flour as they were being delivered to a deposit in the nearby Andean state of Merida. Security forces managed to stop the theft, but two National Guards and four policemen were injured in the melee, according to a local security official. On Wednesday, looters in Merida broke into a state-run supermarket, stealing food, shelves and even doors after learning chicken was being stored there. An underwear store was plundered a day earlier in the same state. Socialist Party officials have condemned the looters as criminals and smugglers seeking to make a quick buck from re-selling. Maduro has vowed a tough hand against violence and warned his enemies are plotting a “coup” akin to this week’s suspension of Brazilian leader Dilma Rousseff. Critics counter that hunger and desperation are pushing people to theft, and warn the situation will only worsen barring urgent policy changes such as an easing of strict currency and price controls that have crimped imports and production.

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

PAGE 35

PAGE 36

Overseas turfites coming... (From page 39) metres with a first prize of $300,000, 2nd place $150,000, 3rd place $75,000 and 4th place $37,000. The Guyana and West Indian bred three year-olds that have not won a total of $100,000 will battle over 1000 metres for a top prize of $250,000, runner-up $125,000, 3rd place $62,000 and 4th place $31,000. The J3 & Lower over 1200 metres will see the victor cart off $ 200,000, 2nd place $100,000, 3rd place $50,000 and 4th place $25,000. The J3 and K Class will be battled over 1200 metres with the winner to receive $175,000, 2nd place $87,000, 3rd place $43,000 and 4th place $19,000. The final race will be contested in the L Class over 1000 metres with the winner to collect $150,000, 2nd place $75,000, 3rd place $37,000 and 4th place $18,000. Meanwhile, Compton Sancho, who is part of the

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

Organisaing Committee, told Kaieteur Sport that over $8million in prize monies will be up for grabs and he is assuring turfites that the Meet is expected to attract most of the top horses from some of the biggest stables in the country including the Elcock Stables, Jumbo Jet, Shariff Stables, Kris Jagdeo, Samsundar Stables, Karibee Rice Stables, Shockings Stables, Lenny Singh Stables and Bacchus Stables. Sancho added that among the other horses that have been identified to compete are Call Me Boss, CP Got Even, Golden Blue Echo, Plum Plum, Princess She Not, Big Man Boss, Because I Said So, Media Day, Carry Azare, Caricom Dance, Glamour Queen, Red Jet, Liquid Lion, Red Regent, Blue Lightning, Quincy and Little. There will be a Fair Play prize of US $150 for a jockey that displays the most discipline throughout the day and

this has been donated by Cordwell Bernard out of Queens, USA. Hot & Spicy will be in attendance with the food, while Thunderbolt Sound System will entertain the anticipated massive crowd. Among the sponsors on board are: Banks DIH, Delmur Trading Company, P&P Insurance Brokers, Latchman Mohabir, R.N Poonai and Assuria Insurance.

EBFA’s Joshua Ferreira tops... From page 37 discussions were lively with the participants showing encouraging knowledge and understanding of the basic rules based on the fact that they were and are current players. The new referees were charged to keep reading and attend training sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Ministry of Education ground from 17:00hrs.

.

Saturday May 14, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Take the time today to consider your health, Aries. Living a long, healthy life is something we all want. Start now to take care of your body.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Your mother may be on your mind today, Libra. Your mother probably affects how you think, act, and feel, both in the past and now.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Today you may emphasize organizing things and managing your life, Taurus. Take a look at your time management.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Focus on yourself today, Scorpio. Take note of your health. You probably know that this is something you must take care of always, not just sometimes.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) One day, I want to be…. When you were little, how did you finish that sentence, Gemini? See what your memory and imagination come up with. CANCER (June 21–July 22) If you feel cautious today, Cancer, don't be alarmed. This can be a good thing, Cancer, as you can be too trusting at times or forget to take care when going into something new. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Leo, personal dignity may be important to you today. This may come about when things go wrong or if you're accused of something you didn't do. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Don't be surprised if someone describes you as conservative. It may be true. It could indicate that it's important for you to maintain control over most things - these are all things that conservative people tend to closely monitor.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) No dream is too big or too late to fulfill. You may be thinking about your special dreams today, perhaps you aspire to do something really great, be a pioneer in some field, or be a prominent figure. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Chances are good that you will receive a helping hand or comfort from someone many years your senior who cares about you, Capricorn. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Today, Aquarius, you may think about competition and possible future goals. Take time to think such things through and, if need be, get back on the right track. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may think about your finances today, Pisces. It's never too late to learn about saving and investing, especially if there's something you really want to do, like travel.

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 37

Kaieteur News

Kicking down the door towards the sculpting of the Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis monument By Michael Benjamin On May 4, 2015, a car accident on the East Bank thoroughfare snuffed out the life of Guyanese boxing icon, Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis. Upon being informed of the mishap, some hours after it happened, my mind immediately went back to that historic night when Lewis had used his fists to make a definitive statement to the world about Guyana. It was February 17th 2001 at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada, when Lewis, defied the naysayers and pounded the then World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight champion, American, James Page, into submission with a 98th second stoppage in the seventh round of their world title fight. I remember that historic night as though it was but a mere few seconds ago. Guyana was preparing for another historic General and Regional elections and someone had set up a television set just under the shed to the southern part of Congress Place and dozens of eager, excited fans congregated there to have a first-hand view of our boxing stalwart in action. This was not just a casual occasion; Lewis was aspiring to do what several of his countrymen had failed to do and place Guyana high up on the world sporting map. Patrick Forde had almost clinched the accolade against Mexican, Salvadore ‘Baby Face Assassin’ Sanchez in San Antonio Texas and many are still convinced that the late Guyanese world rater who lost by a close margin after a spirited effort, was ‘done in.’ The Aaron Pryor/Lennox Blackmore showdown was another anti-climax and a rampaging Pryor simply bulldozed his way to a knockout over his Guyanese challenger. Many other local boxers entered the ‘square jungle’ in pursuit of that elusive belt but were forced to make ignominious retreats. Wayne Harris against Reggie Johnson, Anthony ‘Pearl’ Andrews against Jorge Castro, Terrence Alli against Harry Arroyo, Jose Luis Ramirez and then Caesar Chavez, our boxers just failed to mesh up. There was always the argument that Lewis was not Guyana’s first world champion after Guyanese born, Dennis Andries defeated JB Williamson to win the WBC World Light Heavyweight

Title in London in 1986. Notwithstanding, the contention of many is that though he is of Guyanese birth, Andries had relinquished those ties and proclaimed himself to be British. It was amidst such pressures and many odds that Lewis entered the ‘square jungle’ to bring glory to Guyana. Lewis became the first Guyanese fighting under the Golden Arrowhead to win a world title when on the 17th February 2001, at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada, amidst all odds, he challenged the then World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight champion, American, James Page and came away with a stunning victory after stopping his man in the 98th second of the seventh round. Those that understand the intricacies of the sport will never forget the demolition of a once great fighter (Page) by a nonentity (Lewis) from a country that merely occupied a dot on the world map (Guyana). Most boxers emanate from among the proletariat and it has not been easy making the expected transition to the celebrity realm. Lewis was no exception and his vernacular coupled with his crude way of dealing with human relations issues soon earned him the wrath of many of his fans. That apart, Lewis drifted slightly from the path and the hunger, evident in his Page matchup, had dwindled considerably in his first defence against American, Larry Marks. Fate was good to Lewis and he was given a chance to reassert himself after the Marks encounter which he won on points. Obviously, he blew the opportunity against Nicaraguan, Ricardo Mayorga, but received yet another opportunity to take command of his career when a clash of heads in the 2nd round forced a stoppage of the bout due to a nasty cut over Lewis eye, caused by accidental head butt and ruled a technical draw by dint of the rules. Many are adamant that boxing promoter, Don King, who had had a big input in Lewis’ world title feat, was responsible for his downfall after Lewis uttered certain statements that gravely irked the top promoter. King had not hidden his disgust and annoyance and had vowed to have Lewis’ head. Touted as a boxing mercenary, King slid over to Mayorga’s camp and it was

no surprise that after the aborted encounter, Lewis was hustled into the second encounter and lost by knockout in 2002 via 5th round TKO. Around that time the experts were visualizing a Lewis/ Shane Mosely matchup with possible fights against Vernon Forest and a few other big names. All that went down the drain after the Mayorga defeat, especially against the fury of Don King who seemed to have developed a personal grouse against the late world champion. Lewis’ efforts to rekindle his career dwindled to naught when in 2003 he challenged WBO Welterweight Champion Mexican Antonio Margarito but was TKO’d in the 2nd round. He returned to Guyana and from 2005 to 2007 battled Denny Dalton in a 3 fights series for the Guyanese Light Middleweight Title. These fights are most notable, marked by the controversial and bizarre nature of the ending of the second fight. Ahead on points in the 7th round, Lewis retired from the fight due to an extreme need to defecate, blamed on con-

sumption of a pre-fight milkshake. His returned to the ring almost 12 months to the day from this embarrassment to avenge the defeat against Dalton and claim the Guyanese Light Middleweight Title. This would prove to be the final victory of his career, which ended in October 2008 when he dropped a split decision to Howard Eastman. Lewis’ ascension to the top echelons of the boxing world was as brief as it was devastating yet amidst all the faux pas his momentous achievement of being the first homegrown Guyanese to win the first world title cannot be diminished nor must be obscured. It seems though that Lewis’ feats will be reduced to nothing judging from the posthumous treatment being meted out to him. It was refreshing to see sports and government officials observing a period of silence to honour him during the recent sports awards ceremony. Obviously, this is not enough. It would be nice if

those officials could spruce up the Andrew Lewis Boxing Gym, constructed in honour of his momentous achievement, even as they outfit the facility with modern day equipment for the development of the boxers that practice their trade there. At the moment the structure is in urgent need of some paintwork and the bottom flat is in a dilapidated state. The ring is literally an accident waiting to happen and the only piece of training equipment is a ramshackle piece of iron that was once a weightlifting device. Earlier, President of the

Guyana Boxing Board of Control, Peter Abdool, had suggested the sculpting of a monument in honour of the fallen champion. Abdool feels that Lewis’ achievement is worthy of such recognition and he is absolutely correct. It would be interesting to note just how far negotiations for the establishment of this structure have gone. Mr. Abdool was quoted sometime last year as saying “I think that it is only fitting we might better appreciate what Andrew’s achievement meant to our country and the sporting history of our nation and its extraordinary significance at that particular moment in time.” Mr. Abdool had also said that ever since that historic night he has had renewed respect for Lewis and holds him in high esteem. “I speak on behalf of the entire executive of the Guyana Boxing Board of Control when I say that Lewis will forever be our eternal hero.” The GBBC President is bent on this project so much so that he is willing to invest personal funds and time into its realization and had beseeched Government input as well as support from the corporate community. Lewis’ victory opened the floodgates and several other (local) pugilists capitalized and followed suit. They are Wayne ‘Big Truck’ Braithwaite, Vivian Harris, Gary St. Clair, not to forget the females Shondell Alfred, Gwendolyn O’Neil and Pamela London. The nation is still holding its breath for the commencement of the project. In essaying Lewis’ achievement Abdool had said, “He came to a door that advocated ‘world champions only, no Guyanese allowed’ and he simply kicked it down.” The officials are now at a similar door. Emulation of Lewis’ action would be only too fitting in recognition of the fallen champion.

PAGE 38

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

Letter to the Sports Editor Thousands thrilled as Challenge to cricket act is GCB XI overcome Region deliberate ploy to ostracize One XI in T20 fixture Linden, avoid GCB elections By Zaheer Mohamed

In what was billed as part of Region One (Barima Waini) Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebration, Guyana Cricket Board select XI overcame Region One XI by eight wickets in a T20 fixture played at the Mabaruma Settlement recreation ground on Thursday. The presence of international stars such as Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Tremayne Smartt, victorious West Indies U-19 World Cup captain Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul and Tevin Imlach created much hype in the community as residents came out in their numbers to witness them in action. Prior to the game, the visiting contingent which included Director of Sport (DOS) Christopher Jones were given a tour around the area and much to their delight elderly residents and school children gathered on the road way to greet their heroes. The Region One RDC hosted a colourful opening ceremony to get the day’s event underway. Following prayers and the recitation of the National Anthem, Regional Vice Chairperson Sarah Browne addressed the thousands present. She expressed gratitude to the visitors and spoke of the importance of such an event. In his remarks DOS Jones lauded the organising committee and pledged his assistance for the development of sports there. Veteran test batsman Chanderpaul then thanked the organisers, adding that he is impressed with the interest shown the by residents for the game. Chanderpaul, who scored 11,867 runs in 164 tests, stated that such venture is important since it will help to promote the game in the Region. He urged the youths to take their education seriously and touched on the importance of discipline.

Students of North West Secondary, Mabaruma and Hosororo Primary schools then performed several cultural items before the toss. The fans were then given on field entertainment and cheered every moment of it. The home team were inserted and lost Orrison Sealy who was bowled by Paul for one in the second over. Amar Sahadeo and Devon Joseph offered some resistance before Joseph was removed by Sherfene Rutherford for 11, while Chanderpaul had Sahadeo caught and bowled for 17. Despite Chanderpaul marshalling his troops well, Raymond Harry and Bruce Choung provided some entertainment. Harry smashed two fours and a similar number of sixes before he was taken off Smartt for 33, while Choung hit an unbeaten 24 with two fours and two sixes as Region One XI finished on 119-4. Paul, Rutherford, Smartt and Chanderpaul had one wicket each. Medium pacer Adrian Hernandez removed Kevon Boodie (08) while Sealy had Imlach (04) caught at mid-off to reduce to visitors to 27-2. Chanderpaul received a standing ovation as he walked to the middle and every run that came off his bat was greeted with loud cheers. The left-handed Chanderpaul and Hetmyer took their team within sight of victory. Hetmyer played aggressively, smashing three fours and four sixes before he retired hurt on 47 to give home town boy Robin Bacchus a chance at the crease. Chanderpaul hit three fours in scoring an unbeaten 27, while Bacchus was unbeaten on 15 with two fours as the GCB XI ended on 121-2 in 11 overs. Every member of the visiting team was then presented with tokens. The event was made possible through the Ministry of Education Department of Sport, National Sports Commission, Guyana Cricket Board, George Melville and family (Global Technology) and Misty Campbell.

DEAR SPORTS EDITOR, I wish to congratulate our cricketers for performing with distinction against all odds including an incompetent and discriminating regime that has hijacked our cricket for over seven years during which time there has been no elections. Although our youngsters have done us proud, Guyanese have been finding it difficult to gain selection to the WI Test, One-Day and T20 Teams. Are we winning the battle but losing the war? This regime has been wreaking havoc on our cricket establishment for over seven years. I am amazed that successive Governments of Guyana, the cricket fans and even sponsors could tolerate this untenable situation for so long. It is most disheartening when reputable firms sponsor youth cricket tournaments knowing fully well that our youngsters are being weaned within an environment of unaccountability, ethnic discrimination and improper cricket development programmes. Indeed our cricketers must play as much cricket as possible. However, their cricket development must coincide with their personal development so that even if they do not become successful crick-

eters they would be wellrounded and decent citizens. We cannot afford to develop our youngsters under a regime where leaders engage in unbecoming practices, making the youngsters feel that it is the norm and therefore acceptable. The continuing tenure of the GCB could be properly addressed immediately once the Attorney General, the Minister of Education & Sport and the current Government as a whole demonstrate the will or desire to restore our cricket to order by defending the challenge to the Cricket Act in court. This matter is outstanding since December 2014 and as a result free and fair elections cannot be held. It is time for Guyana to have order, decency and accountability restored to our beloved game of cricket. The fact remains that Anil Beharry, Keith & Hilbert Foster, Angela Haniff and the Executive body of Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), Roger Harper of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) and Bissoondyal Singh of the East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) are the ones to be complimented. Their steadfastness and their excellent cricket development programmes continue to produce cricketers at all levels for our country and have made us proud. They do not receive any funds from the GCB although that Board receives $640,000US per year to develop our cricket. Essequibo, West Demerara and East Bank Demerara selected the present so-called GCB officials but have precious little cricket being played in their areas and consequently have not produced any cricketers for Guyana over the past seven years. The reality is that Anand Sanasie is on the executive of the West Demerara Cricket Association for fourteen years and that Association failed to produce a single cricketer for the Senior National team. So what were the criteria used to award Sanasie with Administrator of the year? Is it for the following? · Not holding legal elections for six (6) years · Not circulating the GCB financial statement as must be done by law · Distributing cricket gear on the East Coast of Demerara and excluding other clubs · Withholding subventions from the Berbice Cricket Board, East Coast

Cricket Board and the Georgetown Cricket Association for the past six (6) years. · Registering a privately owned company and transferring all the GCB assets including all the bank accounts The Upper Demerara Cricket Association (Linden) has been totally ostracized by the GCB with their youngsters, male and female, unable to participate in any Cricket Board tournaments because of the deliberate discriminatory action by the GCB. Their main contention in the challenge to the Guyana Cricket Administration Act is that they do not want the inclusion of the Upper Demerara Cricket Association in the national cricket administration structure. It is therefore ironic that this callous attempt to ostracize in excess of forty thousand (40,000) Guyanese from Linden is apparently not bothersome to the powers that be. In this regard, the incumbent National Sports Commission must explain to the nation the rationale for the recent awards to the GCB and its Secretary, Anand Sanasie having mentioned the above. I wish to remind the cricketing public of the following: 1. Minister of Education and Sport Dr. Rupert Roopnarine, Minister Joseph Harmon, Minister Kemraj Ramjattan, Attorney General Basil Williams and Director of Sport Christopher Jones sat on the Parliamentary Special Select Committee and after twenty-two meetings approved the Cricket Administration Bill unanimously. 2. It was Education & Sport Minister Dr. Roopnarine’s articulate presentation which piloted the Cricket Administration Bill through its successful passage in Parliament. 3. The Director of Sport, Mr. Christopher Jones, recently and publicly chastised the administration of the GCB and had previously stated that there should be free and fair elections of the GCB. 4. There is an outstanding challenge to the Cricket Administration Act where both the Attorney General and the Minister of Education & Sport are the defendants. These Honourable Ministers have been somewhat tardy in their efforts to defend the frivolous challenge. Yours in Sports, W. G. Boston

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 39

Kaieteur News

Bolt ready for 2016 debut

‘Golden Jubilee’ Int’l Drag Meet one day away -Circuit closed to vehicular traffic today and tomorrow

- Usain Bolt (file photo) GEORGE TOWN, United Kingdom (AFP) — Usain Bolt will take the first long strides on his road to Rio here today when he makes his 2016 track debut with less than three months to go before the Olympics. The Jamaican sprint king is planning a successful defence of his 100m, 200m and 4x100m crowns in Brazil, an unprecedented “triple-triple” in what he has said will be his final Olympic games. The 29-year-old superstar has not competed since winning three gold medals at last August’s World Championships in Beijing and is hoping to use this weekend’s Cayman Invitational to gauge the state of his race fitness. Bolt, the world record holder over 100m and 200m, runs in the 100m on Saturday at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex. “When I left Jamaica everything was good,” Bolt told AFP at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex on Thursday. “This is my first race, so you never know what to expect, because race fitness is different from training.” Bolt however believes he

is ready to hit the ground running, revealing that training partner Yohan Blake has been in blistering form this year. “The way I feel I should run a good time, because I train with (Yohan) Blake, who ran a good time (9.93) already this season,” Bolt said. Bolt’s competition today includes training partner Kemar Bailey-Cole and the Cayman Islands’ Kemar Hyman, both of whom have gone below 10 seconds for the 100m. Bolt will also run in Ostrava later this month, where he is scheduled to face US decathlon king Ashton Eaton over 100m. “These upcoming races will determine where I am preparing for Rio,” Bolt said.“I just have to hope that everything fall into place and when I get back to Jamaica in training, I will know what I need to work on.” Although his qualification for the Olympics is likely to be a formality, Bolt said the Jamaican track and field trials were a priority. “We always focus on tri-

als (Jamaica Olympic Trials) first,” he said before reiterating his determination to scoop another treble of golds in Rio, where he is also hoping to become the first man to duck under 19 seconds for the 200m. “I am going to Rio for the three gold medals. That’s always the aim and as I said earlier in the season, I would love to break 19 seconds,” he said. Elsewhere today, America’s 2011 World champion and Olympic Games silver medallist Carmelita Jeter headlines the women’s 100m, which also has USA 200m champion Jenna Prandini and Jamaican Kerron Stewart. Prandini is also in the women’s 200m with compatriot Miki Barber. American Kori Carter is the biggest name in the women’s 400m hurdles while Kendra Harrison of USA will start favourite over Phylicia George of Canada and Virgina Crawford in the women’s sprint hurdles. Trinidad and Tobago’s Machel Cedenio will try to better his personal best of 44.34 clocked here last year in the men’s 400m.

One-day remain before local dragsters square off against their Surinamese counterparts in the ‘Golden Jubilee’ Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) International Drag Race Meet, at the South Dakota Circuit. Guyana’s ambition to defend home turf will rest directly on the performances of dragsters such as Anand Ramchand and the Daby brothers Rondell and Peter along with Chet Singh, Shairaz Roshandin, Syed Ali, Danny Persaud and Sanjay Persaud. The Dutch have included the veteran Hans Ijzer whose GMC Typhoon is no stranger to Guyana and a machine that every local dragster respects and his support will come from Ashton Ceyaram, who pilots a Toyota Chaser, Ruifan Chen (Honda Integra), Prakash Lachman (Toyota Supra), Micheal Namchand

(RX7), (Navin Lalbiharie (Nissan 350Z), Jean-Paul Jose (Ford Cobra Jet) Lester Choi (Nova) and Vidyakoemar Soekhoe (Mitsubishi Evo). They will also be represented in the Superbike category by Tom Gomperts (Suzuki GSX R) and Giovanni Slagveer astride a similar machine. The Porta Tree Timing System, which is equipped with specialized starting

lights that allow quarter mile speeds to be recorded, will be used during the day’s races. Races commence at 09:00 hrs and admission for adults is $1,000, $500 children, while children under-12 and vehicles are free. Meanwhile, the Circuit will be closed to vehicular traffic from 06:00 hrs-18:00 hrs today and tomorrow to facilitate the Meet according to the GMR&SC.

As part of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee celebrations the Foreign Ministry Sports Committee in collaboration with James ‘Uprising’ Lewis, has planned the biggest workplace Tapeball cricket competition tomorrow on the

Ta r m a c o f t h e N ational Culture Centre. At stake are trophies and medals donated by Ramesh Sunich of the Trophy Stall and teams can register by calling 672-6179, 613-0844 or 6665857 before 09:00hrs tomorrow.

Foreign Ministry Tapeball cricket

PAGE 40

Rage claim Joseph Mother’s Day competition

Members of the victorious Rage team with GDA secretary Barbara Marshall (left) and Frank Small (right) of the oraginsing committee. Rage amassed 48 games to win the final of the Faye Joseph Mother’s Day four-game dominoes competition which was contested on Wednesday night at Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt. Frankies finished second on 41 games, while Impressors placed third on 39. Rage were largely indebted to Ronald Beharry and Mark Wiltshire, both chalking 11 games. Mark

Saturday May 14, 2016

Kaieteur News

Welch and Shawn Morgan supported with eight apiece. Rabbi Grovesnor chalked up 11 and Godfrey Samuels 10 for the runner up team while Jermain Christian scored nine, Jermaine Osbourne and Neiberth Hale eight each for Impressors. Frankies won the semi final encounter with 44 games ahead of Impressors 37 and Falcons 27. Grovesnor and Samuels made 12 and eight

respectively for Frankies, while Jermain Osbounre marked 10 and Emily Dodson nine for Impressors. Lionel Britton got seven for Falcons. Meanwhile, Mark Wiltshire and Turning Point dominoes club will be hosting a 15-team four-game competition on Sunday starting at 15:00 hrs. Entrance fee is $9,000. Teams can contact Wiltshire on 665-5855 for information on registration.

Commentator Andrew Mason pays tribute to Tony Cozier The loss of Tony Cozier is massive in my opinion, he was the best cricket journalist ever I know of, no one who was equally brilliant in writing radio and television commentaries. Cozier impacted me greatly and his advice was simple, be balanced and remember to call the score as often as possible as every minute you have a new listener. I am happy to have been part of his last radio cricket broadcast; it was in the Nagico Cup 2015 in Trinidad. It’s something I will always cherish. My biggest disappointment was that he was never knighted in Barbados he deserved it.

Andrew Mason: Barbadian International cricket commentator I hope the Caribbean gives Ton y C o z i e r a tremendous send

off, there is no one more deserving, May he rest in peace.

34th MoE/NSC/GCF Independence 3-Stage Cycle Road Race Hinds and Guyanese relishing Anguilla’s challenge

Defending champion Orville Hinds and his Team Evolution will start as favourites to win the Golden Jubilee Ministry of Education (MoE)/National Sports Commission (NSC)/Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) Three Stage Cycle Road Race today and tomorrow. Pedaling off in the Ancient County of Berbice at 07:30hrs outside the Corriverton Police Station to end the first stage at Main and Alexander Streets in New Amsterdam will be the 45-riders who have registered including 9 from Anguilla competing in two teams. It is anticipated however that the local riders will come out victors given their knowledge of the terrain over the next two days. A number of the nation’s best riders will not be in contention given their campaigns on the international circuit. Geron Williams is currently riding on the Pro Circuit in the USA. Team Coco’s, Raynauth Jeffrey, Jaime Ramirez, Hamza

Orville Hinds Eastman, Stepano Husbands, Jamaul John, Andre Abdool and Christopher Holder are also active in the USA. Despite, a competitive race is anticipated as the other riders will be looking to capital-

ize to ink their names among this best and be in contention for the prizes on offer. The second stage of the race will also be contested today pedaling off at 14:00hrs at the Rosignol Stelling to end on Carifesta Avenue in the city. The final stage tomorrow commences in the Bauxite Mining Town of Linden from 08:00hrs to conclude just outside the National Sports Commission, Homestretch Ave n u e . Hinds’ overall winning time last year for the distance of 171.4 miles was 6 hours 52 minutes 26 seconds and he would be aiming to lower this time but will be cognizant that his rivals will also be relishing their chances.

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 41

GABF names Mohan, Hamid as Head Coaches for national U-16 teams -Guyana eyes participation in FIBA U-17 3x3 Basketball C/ships The Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) announced yesterday that it has identified Lugard Mohan as Head Coach for Guyana’s male Under-16 team and Linden’s Abdullah Hamid as Head Coach for the U-16 female team. “The GABF takes this opportunity to identify Mr. Lugard Mohan as the Head Coach for the U16 Young Men and Mr. Abdullah ‘Zico’ Hamid as Head Coach for the Under-16 Young Women as Guyana prepares for the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championship scheduled to be hosted in Guyana from July 2-17, 2016,” a release said. In addition, it was noted that the other coaches, who were identified for inclusion in the coaching panel to prepare the U-16 teams are Ann Gordon, Mark Agard, Kevin Joseph, Kirk Fraser, Junior Hercules, Kevin Bonnett, Wayne Hinds, Willon Cameron, Julian Haynes and Dane Kendall. “The Coaches are expected to benefit from a USA-based Coaching Consultant, Larry Davis, who will be hosted in Guyana to share his expertise with the Coaches,” the release continued.

Andrew Hercules Meanwhile, the federation has signaled interest to participate in a FIBA sanctioned Under-17 3x3 for Men and Women in the International Lesser Antilles 3x3 tournament for Girls and Boys born after January 1, 1999. The 3x3 basketball format was inspired by several forms of ‘street ball’ played worldwide, and is considered the world’s number one urban team sport. Guyana will hold a national qualifier, as is a prerequisite by FIBA in determining the best male and female 3x3 teams to represent the country after September 2016 in an

Nigel Hinds International Antilles 3x3 Tournament, with all airfare, accommodation and meals being funded by FIBA. T h e m i n i m u m requirement for the local 3x3 qualifier is registration and participation of 15 teams each for both the male and female categories. Andrew Hercules attended the FIBAsponsored Workshop in Puerto Rico at the FIBA Americas Headquarters as G u y a n a ’s a p p o i n t e d Coordinator. Guyana; Saint M a a r t e n ; Tr i n i d a d & Tobago; British Virgin Island; Barbados; Grenada; St. Lucia; Aruba; St. Vi n c e n t ; A n t i g u a a n d Barbuda; and Curacao.

Lugard Mohan (left) presents an award to Ann Gordon, the pair will bring a lot of experience to the coaching staff.

“The work shop exposed Coordinators to the requirements and tools necessary for the execution of tournaments in preparation for International Lesser Antilles 3x3 Tournament. Hercules was exposed to the web-based platform, which will be used in scheduling and reporting on national qualifiers,” the press release observed. “All players will be

required to register and confirm their registration on 3x3planet.com. Each registered, recorded and summated game will add ranking points to Guyana. To assist Guyana in preparation for the national qualifier, FIBA Americas has provided 10 official 3x3 basketballs,” it informed. FIBA has also committed to providing the winning teams with an all

expense trip to the Lesser Antilles International To u r n a m e n t . “ Yo u t h Basketball is important to G u y a n a ’s b a s k e t b a l l development and the GABF will prepare and help to direct and develop youths using basketball as a vehicle,” the release concluded.

EBFA’s Joshua Ferreira tops GFF Beginner’s Referee’s Course The East Bank Football association produced the top male and joint top female officials when the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) ran off a Beginner’s Referees Course last weekend. Joshua Ferreira and Diana Angoy, both of the EBFA, emerged as the top male and female with Angoy sharing the top spot with Shawn Parks, both achieving a 76% pass grade, while Ferreira achieved 90%. The three day course attracted a total of 21 participants, all 14 males passed with three of the females failing to get a pass grade; however, the Head of

GFF President Wayne Forde (seated 2nd left) flanked by from right Stanley Lancaster, Dion Inniss and Roy Mc Arthur, pose with the participants of the just concluded Beginner’s Referee’s Course. Referring Department of the GFF Mr Stanley Lancaster has indicated that the three females will be given

another opportunity in one week’s time to re-take the examination. The facilitators of the

course were Lancaster, Roy Mc Arthur and Ingram Johnson along with Fitness Instructor, Lindley

Langhorne, all FIFA trained officials. Chairman of the GFF’s Referee’s Committee Mr

Dion Inniss, GFF President Mr Wayne Forde and Technical Instructor Mr Roy McArthur all delivered opening remarks encouraging the participants to take the training seriously as they embark on what can be a successful and rewarding referee’s career. Participants came from Georgetown, East Bank including Kuru Kururu on the Linden Soesdyke Highway and the Guyana Defence Force which had seven (7) attendees. During the sessions which dealt primarily with the Laws of the Game, the (Continued on page 32)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 42

Saturday May 14, 2016

Multi Million Modern Space Gym opened By Franklin Wilson With the promise of being the trend setters for maintaining a high quality of service consistently, the multi-million Space Gym located on the third and fourth floors of Status Hotel on Croal Street was unveiled on Thursday evening last during a private gathering. Status Hotel and Space Gym Owner Mr Sergio Matos and his son Lucas were joined for the official opening by Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority/Ministry of To u r i s m / M i n i s t r y o f P u b l i c Telecommunication Mr Indranauth Haralsingh, National Sports Commission’s Seon Erskine and Status Hotel Manager Ms Kathy Johnson. Among the invitees were president’s of associations, national athletes among others. In his remarks, Erskine said that he was very impressed with the quality of equipment and the layout of the gym noting that the plans

of Matos which were explained to him regarding further expansion is very encouraging. Haralsingh in his remarks commended Matos and staff for the initiative and investment in another project that would serve to enhance and maintain a healthy nation. He noted that to rists and even Guyanese are more conscious of their wellbeing today and while visitors are seeking out hotels that are equipped with gyms, local folk and athletes are seeing fitness and wellness as paramount to living healthy. ”Everyone wants to look good and feel good besides feeling young; everyone wants to live healthy and also live very long. While we all know that dieting is good we still need to exercise and to keep our muscles and bones and everything else functioning well. The choice to an active and healthy lifestyle is ours and this gym presents the ideal opportunity for a lot of

NSC’s Seon Erskine cuts the ribbon to officially open the Space u Gym in the presence of from left, Ms Kathy Johnson, Mr Sergio Matos, Mr Lucas Matos and Mr Indranauth Haralsingh.

us to be healthy.” Haralsingh told the gathering that the investment is timely and ties into Guyana’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, whilst

informing that the hotel was almost filled to capacity already like so many others in the city. Space Gym will not only be opened to the occupants

of the hotel but also to members of the public. It was formally opened to the public yesterday (Friday) with attractive packages on offer.

Performing the duties of cutting the ribbon to officially open the state of the art gym was NSC’s Erskine to the applause of the gathering.

Trophy Stall Independence Open and Age Group Badminton tourney Tyrese Jeffrey and Priyanna Ramdhani win U-17 titles The Trophy Stall Independence Open and Age Group Badminton tournament which started on Wednesday May 11, 2016 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall continued Thursday 12 May with action in the Open Men Singles, Under-17 Boys & Girls Singles. Priyanna Ramdhani won the Under-17 Girls Singles, while Tyrese Jeffrey won the Under-17 Boys Singles titles in the action on Thursday. Matches played on day two were as follows: Open Men’s Singles First Round: Narayan Ramdhani defeated past national player Grandison Robinson: 21-13, 21-9 Ronald Chang Yuen defeated veteran William Holder: 21-15, 21-16 Darrell Carpenay defeated Lakshman Das: 219, 21-9 Open Men Singles Quarter-Finals:

Tyrese Jeffrey

Jonathan Mangra

Narayan Ramdhani

Narayan Ramdhani defeated Tyrese Jeffrey: 2110, 21-9 Marlon Chung defeated Ronald Chang Yuen: 21-15, 21-18 Avinash odit defeated Darrell Carpenay: 21-11, 2113 Jonathan Mangra

defeated Priyanna Ramdhani: 21-15, 21-14 Open Men Singles Semi-Finals: Narayan Ramdhani defeated Marlon Chung: 215, 21-7 Jonathan Mangra defeated Avinash Odit: 2117, 21-9

Under-17 Girls Semi-Finals: Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Wonita Yang: 21-7, 21-6 Under-17 Girls Finals: Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Priyanka Shivnauth: 21-7, 21-8 Under-17 Girls Third

Priyanna Ramdhani Place: Gabriela Pertab defeated Wonita Yang: 21-9, 19-21, 21-8 Under-17 Boys Singles Round Robin: Tyreese Jeffrey defeated Akili Haynes: 22-20, 21-18 Akili Haynes defeated Tyrese Richards: 21-13, 214

T h e To u r n a m e n t continues today from 10:00am-12:30pm in the Under-11 & 13 Events and the Open Finals between Jonathan Mangra and Narayan Ramdhani and the Third place play off between Marlon Chung & Avinash Odit.

Kaieteur News

Saturday May 14, 2016

PAGE 43

GAPF shortlists 22 for 14th IPF/NAPF/NARP C/ships in USVI The Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) has shortlisted a 22member team to represent the nation at the 14th IPF / NAPF North American Regional Powerlifting Championships scheduled for St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, August 14 – 19, next. The team made up of experienced and not so experienced lifters will be aiming to continue a rich tradition that Guyana has set ever since getting back into c o m p e t i t i v e Powerlifting at the Caribbean level and further afield. According to a release from the federation which is now headed by Ed Caesar, team Guyana will be aiming to continue the rich tradition set by the likes of seasoned campaigner Winston ‘Little Master’ Stoby

who has also been shortlisted. Several athletes from across the length and breadth of Guyana were selected based on fulfilling the criteria stipulated by the G A P F ’s S e l e c t i o n Committee which was based on their performances at the federation’s Senior N a t i o n a l Championships in November 2015, the 2015 Pan-American P o w e r l i f t i n g Championships held in Brazil, and the 2015 Commonwealth P o w e r l i f t i n g Championships held in Canada. The release further stated that overall the team is made up of several seasoned athletes who have all been successful on the International and Regional stages. It also boasts several young talents eager to

Fazim Abdool being assisted during this squat routine by his brother Farouk Abdool. Franklin Wilson photo. make their debut at this level. The GAPF is appealing to Corporate

Guyana and citizens to make this trip a reality for all the athletes. Interested persons

can contact members of the GAPLF Executive Committee to indicate their interest in

making this moment in the history of G u y a n a ’ s Powerlifting, a reality.

Contact persons Ed Caesar (600 2942) and Martin Webster (231 6758).

Overseas turfites coming for Four-Horseman Race Meet -Biggest stables, horses confirmed Turfites from overseas have begun to arrive for next weekend’s Four Horseman Promotion in collaboration with Port Mourant Turf Club ‘Golden Jubilee’ One-Day Race Meet which will be staged in Berbice. Speaking with Coordinator Colin Elcock at his Delmur Trading Company in Prashad Nagar, he told this newspaper that most of the country’s top horses will be on show in what is anticipated to be an exciting day of races. According to Elcock, the feature event is the ‘A’ and Lower Class and one of the early entries is the impressive King Night that is regarded as one of the best horses locally. The race which will be run over 1900 meters carries total prize monies in the

vicinity of $3million with the winner set to receive $ 1 , 7 5 0 , 0 0 0 ; r u n n e r- u p $750,000, 3rd place $375,000 and 4th place $187,000. The co-feature, the D3& Lower for horses that have earned over $100,000 within the last six months, will also include horses classified E&F Lower over a distance of 1400 metres with the winner guaranteed $750,000, 2nd place $375,000, 3rd place $182,000 and 4th place $90,000. The G & Lower for West Indian bred horses will be run over 1200 metres with the winner to collect $350,000, 2nd place $175,000, 3rd place $85,000 and 4th place $42,000. The H2&Lower is the next race up over 1000 (Continued on page 32)

Member of the Four Horseman Promotion Organising Committee, Compton Sancho poses with the trophies up for grabs at next week’s Race Meet at Pour Mourant Turf Club.

t r o Sp

Thousands thrilled as GCB XI overcome Region One XI in T20 fixture

Members of both teams after the conclusion of the game.

‘Golden Jubilee’ Int’l Drag Meet one day away -Circuit closed to vehicular traffic today and tomorrow

Two cars seen at the starting line in a previous Drag Meet.

Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210