Kaieteur News

Wednesday May 24, 2017

GAWU has always stood by the side of the sugar workers DEAR EDITOR, Our Union was very disturbed to read Mr Abel Seetaram’s letter appearing in the May 20, 2017 Kaieteur News that GAWU and the PPP are using underage children in the protest line. We see Mr Seetaram’s letter as an attack on people who are simply standing up and defending their livelihoods. While Mr Seetaram chose seemingly to castigate the young man for taking part in the protest on May 16, 2017, he fails to mention, conveniently or otherwise, that the protest was spurred as a result of the harsh policies embraced by a Government of which he is foremost cheerleader. The participation of young students joining their parents, teachers and others serve to dramatize policies by this Government which will certainly affect their future. Their participation hopefully can bring about more effectiveness to continuing heartless approach by this Government which is affecting working people and the poor country wide.

With respect to the sugar industry, we cannot ignore the fact that it is the Government which has taken on board and is promoting plans to miniaturize the industry. Certainly, they cannot escape blame for the difficulties which has emerged and are ahead for sugar workers and their families and the sugar-linked communities. Wales presently is a painful and glaring example We wish to advise Mr Seetaram, for his records, that prior to closure of Wales in 2016, the last estate that was closed was Diamond in the mid-1980’s. Between then and 2016, cane cultivation, on a smaller scale, continued to 2009 and many of the workers who were severed took up employment at Wales. Regarding LBI, when the factory was closed many workers were either transferred to the Enmore factory or took up employment in the LBI field workshop which remained operable until it was closed in 2016, despite undertakings by GuySuCo that this was not

in their projections. GAWU is also charged by Mr Seetaram as only now raising its voice for the sugar workers. This is a most ridiculous statement. Our Union has always stood in the defence of workers’ and a strong advocate of workers improvement generally. In passing, we merely wish to reflect of the article in GuySuCo’s name alluded to the militancy of the workers which appeared in the May 21, 2017 edition of Kaieteur News. For obvious and understandable reasons, Mr Seetaram seems very much bothered by the workers and their families’ resistance in the sugar communities at this time. We urge him to lobby his contacts, who traverse the corridors of power in our country, to listen to the people’s cries and to have them abandon their callous plans which will wreck the lives of too many of our working-people and their families. Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

Trust needs to be restored in the Public Service Commission DEAR EDITOR, I should be grateful for the publication of this letter with reference to two sets of recommendations of the 2016 Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the Public Service, headed by Professor Harold Lutchman: i) The appointment of the Public Service Appellate Tribunal by President David Granger is welcome. This is in keeping with the recommendation number 60 of the COI affirming that the Tribunal be constituted with suitably qualified and experienced persons of high integrity and independence to function in keeping with the provisions outlined under the Public Service Appellate Tribunal Act 17 of 1984. It was a grave injustice to Public Servants not to have this Commission appointed since May 2005. The Public Service Appellate Tribunal considers appeals in matters of appointments, transfers, promotions, and discipline including dismissals by the Public Service Commission under Article 215 A of the Constitution of Guyana and under Act No. 17 of 1984. The COI stated that the existence and effective functioning of the Tribunal

are essential to ensure fairness and justice for Public Servants to have their grievances addressed with appropriate redress. The COI notes that rights and interests issues are matters for collective bargaining negotiations w i t h t h e Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) headed by Patrick Yarde for some thirty years now, not withstanding controversies over union elections over the years. Following the Carville Duncan saga, and external political pressures on Commission members, Patrick Yarde has just been sworn in as acting Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), although there is no such constitutional position in the PSC. What manifest conflict of interest and double dealings, and a total disregard for the spirit intent of the Constitution and the national good? ii) The Public Service Commission (PSC). The public must assess and pronounce on the judgement of those responsible for the nominations and appointments of members of the PSC – the Executive and the Members of the National Assembly. It is a clear case of appointments based on

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partisan political interest against the national interest. No wonder the COI into the Public Service recommended (recommendation No. 8) that the PSC be constituted with suitably qualified and competent persons of high integrity to exercise their duties in strict fairness, impartiality, and on the basis of merit. The COI notes that it is desirable, as is the case of the Public Service Appellate Tribunal, that members of the Commissions should possess experience and show capacity in matters relating to administration, human resource management or public affairs. The life of the current PSC is coming to an end in August 2017. It is hoped that His Excellency President David Granger and the National Assembly would take seriously the recommendations of the COI in the Public Service in the appointment of new members to the PSC of the calibre recommended. Public confidence, trust, professionalism, political neutrality in the execution of their duties needs to be restored by the demonstrated conduct and performance of members of the PSC. Joshua Singh

SOCU must be commended for its investigative work DEAR EDITOR, Investigative work by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) following revelations of a recent forensic Audit of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB),has led to charges being laid against six (6) former Board members and the commencement of legal action on May 19, 2017. The six, who were each placed on $500,000, bail will have to return to Court within a month’s time for trial. This is a landmark event. Apart from that pending matter against the former AG for alleged embezzlement of state property (Law books), the GRDB matter involves leading opposition activists, parliamentarians, and persons who played key roles in Guyana’s second most important agricultural sector - Rice. SOCU and the Police legal advisory team must be highly commended for the diligent work they have been doing. SOCU’s competence to date has, and should always appear to be, in sync with prime objectives of the Government and people of Guyana. That

is to act without fear or favour in dismantling and instituting charges against those involved in organized fraud, criminal networking and money laundering. This recent matter involving the misappropriation of close to $400 million is just one of sixty, yes 60, matters under SOCU’s investigations for the GRDB alone. Based on revelations of the forensic audits, it is anticipated that ongoing investigations will include other GRDB officials, politicians and millers as well. So there should be no surprises. Some of the players know themselves. The work of SOCU is unenviable and should never be underestimated. In light of the magnitude and gravity of the matters at hand, the public nor any political party should be astounded that convictions will follow. Unless, there are huge legal blunders or judicial partiality, there is no reason why the people of Guyana will not realize what they voted for - for Justice and the enforcement of Justice, for one, and for all. Orette Cutting

Some do not want the Region 5 Chairman to succeed DEAR EDITOR, With the resignation of the former oligarch of Region 5, I had hoped that those elected to serve the people would finally put aside their confrontational behaviour to finally bring real development to the region. But it seems like the other contemptuous Councillor and the thinskinned REO are determined to continue the disruptive agenda of non-cooperation with the Regional Chairman. Let me make my position emphatically clear, I am not writing this letter in defence of the Regional Chairman, for I was not present at the RDC statutory meeting when the APNU+AFC Councillor, Abel Seetaram registered his complaint to the Regional Chairman about the misuse of NDIA equipment. But I write to express my profound disgust at what is clearly a deliberate continuous effort to stymie development in Region 5 to make the PPPcontrolled NDCs look bad. For seven long months in 2016, the now disgraced former APNU+AFC Councillor Carol Joseph, aided and abetted by the despicable RDC Councillor Abel Seetaram, successfully spear-headed a boycott of the RDC statutory meetings which crippled all forms of development in the region. All because Joseph thought the Regional Chairman, Vickchand Ramphall had been disrespectful to the President when he failed to attend a handing-over ceremony he was not invited to. This lawlessness was encouraged by the REO, Mr. Ovid Morrison, who uses the power of the purse to

manipulate and dictate which communities in Region 5 are more deserving of attention, to accomplish the APNU+AFC objectives in the Region. The way I see it, this “crises” could have been avoided if protocol was followed. An APNU+AFC Councillor, Abel Seetaram, a well-known trouble-maker, received information that an RDC excavator on loan to the Bath / Woodley Park NDC, was being misused for private use. Instead of reporting this to the Regional Chairman as protocol dictates, he went to see the REO, Mr. Ovid Morrison. Without informing the Regional Chairman, and without inviting him to the scene of the “crime”, Morrison accompanied Seetaram to the location where the excavator was operating and photos were taken. In a statement made by Seetaram during the April sitting of the RDC Statutory Meeting, he reported the misuse of the excavator and offered to produce the photos he had taken. The REO confirmed that he too were there, giving credibility to Seetaram’s complaint. In response, the Regional Chairman, Vickchand Ramphall requested that an investigation be held into this allegation before any pronouncement on the matter can be made. The APNU+AFC Councillors did not approve of the Chairman’s request, as they believe the photos and the REO’s admission of being there, should be enough not to warrant an investigation of any kind. But when the

Chairman insisted on an investigation, the REO thought his integrity was being questioned, and threatened to walk out if the Chairman did not offer an apology to him. He subsequently left the meeting, followed by the APNU+AFC Councillors. The Regional Democratic Council must be guided by Parliamentary Practices. And whenever allegations are brought before the Council, an investigation must be conducted before any action is taken. If indeed the excavator was being misused, then Abel Seetaram was obligated to bring this to the attention of the Council. But he mischievously and deliberately violated protocol when he reported the incident to the REO instead of informing the Regional Chairman as Councillors are obligated to do. Had he done so, this entire fiasco would have been avoided. Residents of Region 5 are faced with serious issues which require the attention of the RDC: Most of the farmto-market roads and streets within the ten Neighbourhood Democratic Councils are in a deplorable state. Health Centres are in need of repairs. Medical equipment and supplies are short. Our schools are in a deplorable state and in need of urgent attention. Yet every little thing seems to escalate into a constitutional crisis that demands an apology, with total disregard for the need to deliberate on the people’s business, and to come up with real solutions that would bring much needed relief to Continued on page 6

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HARRY GILL NEEDS TO ANSWER THIS QUESTION DEAR EDITOR, Over the past weeks, Member of Parliament Mr. Harry Gill has written quite a number of letters to the newspapers mostly condemning others and proclaimed himself to be a moral human for the PPP party he represents. Well Mr. Gill should answer to the Honorable House of Parliament many questions about himself as to the status as a foreign citizen knowing according to the Laws of Guyana such a citizenship cannot become a Member of Parliament because of the fact Mr. Gill did not serve Guyana and as he lived most of his life in another

country contributing their and he is receiving a retirement benefit from all the TAXES he paid in that foreign country. The Laws of Guyana require MP, Harry Gill to give up his foreign citizenship in order to serve in the Parliament of Guyana. I doubt he will ever do it. It is grossly wrong fort the taxpayers to be paying MP Harry Gill. He is unjustly occupying a seat in Parliament. I believe that Mr. Harry Gill should do the honorable thing in resigning knowing that he has deceived the Guyanese public at large. If MP Harry Gill is a true patriot to Guyana let his partisan be proven as

a Guyanese or Canadian or American or British as to which citizenship he would keep . This is another example of the unethical nature of the PPP/C and to date many of the leadership from the Peoples Progress Party are in court for crimes committed against State. It seems a norm that PPP/ C MPs think of these crimes as normal and cannot be worried. When the PNC lost in 1992 none of the PNC MPs was before the Court for crimes against the State. So MP. Harry Gill where are your morals? Harry Adjodha Region 5

BRIEF REFLECTIONS ON BURNHAM AND JAGAN DEAR EDITOR, Trips down memory lane are always welcomed, to me at least, mainly because they bring to mind “the sweet used-to-be”, as one song describes it. Mr. Burnham was not only a gifted speaker - he also had a sharp, sometimes devastating, wit. I once heard him describe a political colleague as being able to “sell Satan to Jesus”! Those of us with good memories and still capable of communicating may recall the unexpected and amusing public demonstration he gave to show that B.G.’s main drink manufacturer, seeking

election to Parliament, could not be relied on. The chap was thinking of increasing the price of his bottled soft drink, and “LFS” did not think it fair, particularly to the poor, and said so. The manufacturer seemed to put aside the idea, and many people relaxed. Mr. Burnham ‘sussed’ out the chap’s true intentions, and, at a public meeting, demonstrated with a mug of water that, by reducing the size of the drinks bottle, the politician was “getting away with it”. Hearty laughter all round. Loss of some votes,

perhaps. Mr. Burnham had natural style. Dr. Jagan, on the other hand, although totally sincere, tended to ‘rant and rave’, becoming too emotional, leaving some in the audience uneasy. To sum up, one leader spoke with his head, the other from his heart. They were well-meaning men both, but with different approaches. Perhaps, being exposed as students to different cultures might have had something to do with it. They both did their best. May they rest in peace? Let us carve both names with sympathy? Geralda Dennison

Some do not want the Region... From page 5 the people of Region 5. I must remind REO, Ovid Morrison that if he had taken the time, and objectively investigate allegations of

drug abuse by Carol Joseph, he would not have given instructions to have Staff Nurse/Midwife Sheriyn Marks transferred from the Fort Wellington Hospital with

The Cummingsburg...

From page 4 proposed revisit of the Accord is intended to change the present balance of power in the coalition or, is intended to inform the party‘s approach to future negotiations for the 2020 General and Regional Elections. Without having the benefit of the AFC’s wisdom on this issue, I am sure that party’s leadership - given the now known reality of the AFC’s electoral standing -must be aware that in reopening the negotiations, it will be hard pressed to justify its claim to the 60/40 power arrangement, much less increase it. Tacuma Ogunseye

immediate effect. And he would have discovered that those who pushed him to make that decision are the ones guilty of perpetrating and covering up a situation to protect a person who has a drug reliance problem.. But then again, he may have already known that. The Regional Chairman owes the REO no apology. But I will encourage him to do so when the Attorney General, the Hon Basil Williams apologize to High Court Judge, Justice Franklin Holder, and when Morrison is remorseful enough to transfer Staff Nurse/Midwife Sheriyn Marks back to Fort Wellington Hospital where she belongs, and issues a public apology for the pain and suffering he has caused this model civil servant whom we should all be proud of. Harry Gill PPP/C Member of Parliament

Wednesday May 24, 2017

The Saijan tree should be given prominence as a nutritional powerhouse DEAR EDITOR, Pat Dial’s Consumer Corner offering on the extraordinary nutritional benefits of the various products of the Saijan tree (Moringa oliefera) – KN May 21 2017- is timely and relevant in the ongoing evolution of dietary habits within the Guyanese culinary culture. His brief historical review referenced the enthusiastic efforts of the late Dr. Ptolomy Reid (in the 1970s) to promote the tree as a nutritional powerhouse, and to encourage its cultivation, however he forgot to mention the symbolic gesture of the then Forbes Burnham Government to name a building which was at that time one of the numerous commercial state assets –Saijan Plaza. Saijan Plaza located at the south eastern corner of Camp and Charlotte Streets, back in the 1970s, accommodated stores and a couple of restaurants located on two of its four floors. It was subsequently bought over by Citizens Bank which just recently vacated those premises to occupy its new corporate headquarters just a corner away. Symbolically it would be so very appropriate for that building to be re-bestowed with a name that included the word Saijan – if for no other reason- it would remind us Guyanese of a symbolic tree which is undeniably a source of healthful nutritional benefit, which we have been neglecting and being allowed to fade into oblivion. One can appreciate the ambivalence of the average citizen who might not have had the culture or exposure to the consumption of Sijan, for I myself was once in that position.

The Sijan tree first attracted my attention in Tortola BVI where it grows profusely on the hillsides bordering the winding roads in much drier and rockier soil than in our coastal belt. I collected some seeds and cultivated the tree in my home yard solely as an ornamental tree. On return to Guyana I was educated by an experienced user of Sijan on the culinary conversion of the tree products –leaves and pods (drumsticks). Still an ornamental tree, but now with added nutritional / health value. The good thing about the Sijan tree is that it is quick growing and can be controlled by judicious trimming / pruning to remain shrubby enough to be accommodated in even the most modest sized backyard. It is good that NAREI has embarked on a programme to promote and support the development of Saijan as a vegetable commodity in its own right, and hopefully we will see tangible benefits in due course. But in the short term, one should not sit and wait on NAREI while there are so many backyard and fence-line Saijan trees across the length and breadth of coastal Guyana, where leaves flowers and pods just go to waste in some situations, since the owners or custodians of these bearing trees seem not to be interested in harvesting and utilizing the valuable products. A word of warning - Saijan branches are very brittle and extreme caution should be exercised in attempting to climb to reach coveted bearing products. This might explain why some trees are not harvested. Rowland Fletcher

Bipartisanship a necessary objective DEAR EDITOR, With all that is peddled through the various media, it is important to note that partisanship is well alive within the Region. One can write all the letters to the editor but, the fact still remains that the indurate writer of the PPP within Region 5 is partisan. The APNU+AFC government is for all of Guyana; the APNU+AFC Councillors of Region 5 are always willing to give a hand of fellowship but we will not do so only to be bitten or spat upon. As a Regional Councillor I make every effort to seek an audience with the Regional Chairman, many times he is not in Office or is unwilling to compromise, on matters which I believe we can find common ground in moving forward. I do so because of my bipartisan objective and a fair knowledge of how leaders of two sides should work for their people. I do not wish to state again what happened during the April sitting of the RDC, but, will say if only the Regional Chairman reads for himself he would have been properly informed of how the Chair works. And he should not impute improper motives to members which brought the House/ RDC into disrepute. Instead of reading the rules and standing orders for himself, the Chairman is dependent on others to do so for him. Had he read for himself, bipartisanship would have been a necessary objective and compromise and most of the matters I sought would have been advanced. Nonetheless, Region 5 is strong and the people are ever confident in the coalition government. Contrary to what has been said in the media, it must be noted that the RDC had set forward all programmes for the year 2017, and many communities are beginning to see the fruits of such. No school within the region is in a deplorable state. So far works have been done on District No. 10 Primary and Nursery schools; Airy Hall Nursery school, Mortise Primary School, Cottage Nursery School, Woodley Park Secondary, Belladrum Primary, Seafield

Primary, to name a few. Allow me to state Belladrum Secondary in a different way. Mr Editor, for the amount of years the PPP have been in power, for so long the Belladrum Secondary School has been neglected. The Coalition Government has not neglected any school because of where it’s located and we never will. The Health centers are in super state. History would remind many of the residence of the then deplorable state of the health centers within the region before 2015. It is only now Trafalgar and Little Baibu Health centre employees can boast of a decent facility with living quarters. Need I remind us what would have happened in the past, of the PPP pulling down structures built by the then PNC government, replacing those with smaller and inferior buildings (it happened to the Belladrum Health centre). I must inform readers of the many roads that are currently under construction and those already built. Mr Editor it is not of our own volitions these roads were built but the volitions of the people of Region 5. I invite the readers to visit two locations - Bushlot Middle Street, South of the Public Road and Waterloo/Bath Just east to the Former Regional Chairman’s residence, take a visit and one will be better informed of the works we are doing within the region and how notorious the PPP has become. To date the REO has done a fantastic job in executing our current and capital works programme. I want to further encourage him to keep up the good works and he sure will be awarded more works to execute in 2018. My Youth Director would say to us “the reward for hard work is more hard work.” I am proud of our pace of execution so far, and would encourage others to take a page out of Mr Morrison’s book in the way he functions as REO. Bipartisanship is a necessary objective which will not make one biased in their criticism of the other party. Dolston Hutson APNU+AFC Member

Wednesday May 24, 2017

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PPP officials running from shadows of what they did - PM By Kiana Wilburg In spite of the unrelenting criticisms of failure by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), President David Granger is maintaining that in the space of two years, his government has accomplished much to be proud of. In fact, he says, “I think we have done well.” Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, recently lambasted the government regarding its publication of a two page spread in the local newspapers, speaking to its achievements. Granger however, is not moved by any of the Opposition’s criticisms. He told Kaieteur News, “The Opposition will oppose… (But) I do feel that the (centre) spread which you saw is reflective of the achievements that have took place within the last two years. We are working. It is a work in progress.” Additionally, the President believes that Guyanese are beginning to realize, better, the predicament the government found itself in when it won the May 2015 elections. Granger recalled the many challenges the government was left to face regarding the indebtedness in the sugar industry, the failed fibre optic cable project on which $1.3B has been wasted, and the US$200M Skeldon Sugar Factory which is falling to pieces and has to be divested. “We are gradually making Guyana a more transparent society. We have taken action with regard to AML (Anti Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of

- Granger insists Govt. has done well

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo Terrorism), we brought a British Security Advisor to provide advice on the police force in particular and the security situation in general. “I think that we have done well. The newspaper report is an accurate description of what we have achieved. We realize we have more to do.” With regard to the government’s efforts in the fight against corruption, Granger said, “Corrupt people don’t leave their fingerprints all over the place.” The President said that the Government had to make moves to bring certain Bills before Parliament and has made better use of the State Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) and the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU). “In due course, I am confident that Guyana would be a more lawfully administered country.” Supporting Granger ’s position was Prime Minister

and First Vice President, Moses Nagamootoo. He, too, concurred that when one is in the opposition, it is easy to resist anything. The First Vice President maintained that in the last two years, the coalition administration has been grappling with the corruption left behind by the Ramotar and Jagdeo administrations. “We are trying to put in place the legal and the institutional framework. For example, for two decades there was no Public Service Appellate Tribunal…You have the AML laws, the new State Assets Recovery Agency law, we have the Public Procurement Commission set up. So what you are seeing now are institutional measures to deal with corruption being put in place.” Nagamootoo also noted that he is not bothered by the criticisms of underachievement by the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo. In fact, he believes PPP officials are now running from the shadows of what they did. The administration recently made it clear that it has more than 125 things that it has achieved, including lowering the Berbice Bridge tolls, a cleaner city, holding

A mini health check is the first step to donating blood

Local Government Elections in more than two decades, less piracy and more transparency. In a two-page spread published in this newspaper, the coalition, which comprises A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), insisted that Guyana is “moving forward”. The administration pointed that it has introduced buses that offer free transportation to school children, paved the way for 4G internet for smartphones, rekindled pride in the country and lowered the crime rate. There has been an increase in salaries for public servants and almost 70,000 persons are exempted from income tax. On the labour front, collective bargaining has been restored with reduced house lot costs, better

President, David Granger

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo

drainage and irrigation, and more pumps have been installed. With respect to updating the country’s laws, work has started to reform the Constitution with one key report already completed. During the two years, under the coalition, there has been a review of the Integrity legislation for public officials, rehabilitation of the Mazaruni prisons and a successful gun amnesty programme. A Code of Conduct for public officials has also been completed and

dozens of state boards reconstituted. Be that as it may, Jagdeo has since deemed the Government’s promotion of its achievements to be farcical. He opined that despite the utterances and publicized accomplishments, Guyanese are still feeling the squeeze. ‘Jagdeo said the advertisement, “at the end the day, means nothing to the people. This means nothing to them and their lives.”

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Kaieteur News

Food For The Poor donates medical equipment to Linden Hospital

Trolleys and other equipment. The Linden hospital complex was yesterday presented with medical supplies and equipment from Food For the Poor (FFTP). The donation will help to boost the services rendered at the facility. Making the presentation on behalf of FFTP was Public Relations Officer Wayne Hamilton. Hamilton said that the presentation was one of many made to the facility over the years. In the past the hospital would have sent a

vehicle to uplift the supplies. This time around FFTP had seen it fit to deliver. Hamilton pointed out that yesterday’s presentation was the first of two to be delivered to the institution this time around. “On behalf of FFTP I’m very pleased to be handing over this huge donation of medical supplies to the Linden Hospital complex. Over the years,FFTP has contributed significantly to this

Food For The Poor PRO Wayne Hamilton making presentation to the CEO of Linden Hospital, Dr Farouk Riyasat yesterday. hospital . We are particularly pleased with the manner with which the hospital has been administrating the stuff that has been delivered to them.” Hamilton said that being cognizant of the fact that a healthy nation is a productive one and recognizing that the hospitals and health centres around the country were in need of supplies, FFTP had pledged to assist these institutions as

much as possible with items that will help to sustain them. He promised that the organization will continue to make more donations as soon as these become available. Chief Executive Officer of the Linden Hospital complex, Dr Farouk Riyasat , said that the supplies were essential and that the items would be divided and shared with other hospitals and health centres in Region Ten.

“This morning we are in receipt of millions of dollars in medical supplies and equipment from FFTP. This is not the first time that we have been receiving supplies from this organization.”Riyasat noted. He said that the donation was a timely one that was most welcomed. Some of the supplies donated included respirators, emergency trolleys, pediatric beds and focus lights among other items.

Wednesday May 24, 2017

DEM BOYS SEH...

Can somebody please explain these issues? Guyana can be a highly confusing society. It is the role of newspapers to try to prevent its readers from being confused by explaining the issues behind the news. Sometimes, the newspapers leave this role up to their op-ed columnists. But even the op-ed columnists cannot, at times, make sense out of what appears to be nonsense. Charges have been filed against persons who were part of the former Board of the Guyana Rice Development Board. Members of a Board of Directors are a collective. They represent the legal personality of the corporate entity or authority on which they sit. They therefore

cannot be charged in their personal capacity but only as members of a collective. It therefore requires the newspapers in Guyana to explain how it is that select, not all, members of the former Board of the GRDB, could have been brought before a criminal court for offenses. But what is more befuddling is that the persons have been charged for not recording some transaction in a ledger. This requires some explanation since it hard to recall at any time in this country’s legal history that persons have been so charged. What is this charge about not entering something in a ledger? One would have

Superbet Guyana to pay... (From page 3) instead of refunding Lancaster his $500, 000 stakes, he would grant him the $2.1M winnings. The General Manager shared that Lancaster is not the only one in this quandary. There are perhaps two other cases of a similar nature in Guyana and over 30 in Suriname. He took the decision last night to have all customers paid off in relation to the compromised bet. The General Manager also related that he is interested in maintaining a good standing in Guyana and recommitted to strengthening the company’s relationship with its customers. Lancaster was pleased with the resolution. Both parties left Kaieteur News in good spirits. Superbet is a Suriname company which has established branches in Guyana and other parts of the world. Superbet Guyana allows sports fanatics to not only support their favourite team but also to bet on whether a particular team will win; lose or if the game will end in a draw. Superbet established roots in Guyana in 2012.

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presumed that the days of ledgers are over. In the old days, there were three main documents in any accounts department. There was the cash book, the journal and the ledger. The details from the former two had to have been classified into the ledger which was used to provide breakdowns on the income stream of an entity. So that if the entity had five income streams and you wanted to know the aggregate amount of each stream, you would go to the ledger to find this out. The ledger provided a summary of the various transactions. Cashbooks, journals and ledgers went out of commission with the introduction of accounting software. These days the computer does all the work. It acts as a cash book, a journal and a ledger and can also provide other types of information. This is why there are not many office jobs around these days. The computer is doing the work which six or seven persons used to do. The media needs to explain the offence that is created by someone not entering a figure in a ledger. Should the offence not really be the resulting misappropriation, if at all? The charge of not entering a

Justice and decency is only fuh some people transaction in a ledger is a most baffling charge. The media needs to explain. But even more confounding is that it was members of the Board of Directors who have been charged for what seems to be an accounts department related issue. The media needs to explain how it is that select persons on the Board of Directors, and not the entire Board, are being held culpable. The police are said, in another case, to have issued an arrest warrant for a person simply because that person’s name appeared on a document. Anybody can put any name on a document. Does this mean that if this happens that the person whose name appears on the document should have his or her name and image posted on a wanted bulletin? The media needs to explain this practice because it can muddy the reputation of persons. Asking the ordinary citizen to make sense out of these issues is like asking a four-year-old to solve a calculus problem.

Over de years dem boys was talking about de skullduggery, de corruption and all de wrongdoings that have been tekking place in this land. Dem expose almost everything. People now telling everybody that if dem Google any court story today and even some in years to come people would see dem boys did expose it years ago. Is only now people getting charge because de law in dem days was only fuh one set of people. People kill and walking de road laughing while some kill and run out de court smiling. Remember Labba Lip Kwame? He beat people and nutten come out of it. Minister Peck knock down a man pun de road and to this day de man cripple but no action. Ashni, de shaat scamp, that thiefing Minister, crash up a lady car when he was drunk. No police question him. Then he tun round and tek taxpayers money and buy a brand new car fuh de lady. All this and much more wuss things happen under Jagdeo and Donald Dumb. And it continuing under Soulja Bai stewardship wid dem same people wha Donald Dumb and Jagdeo appointed. He come in and he meet dem and he can’t get rid of dem. Ramson is one. When anybody ask him fuh information he dilly dally pun it. One time he tell de transparency people dem didn’t address him properly as Justice Ramson. Dem boys hear when de Guyanese people ask fuh info and he play dead and don’t reply. When people go to de office, de place lock up tighter than Lot 12 Camp Street. But every day, Sunday to Sunday, 365 days a year he does sit down he alone at a table at Flat Shop at Eccles, drinking ee daroo and tinking bout Saroo. Just recent de Prime Minister try to get some info. Ramson tell him ee don’t have staff. But de other day when he colleague Ten Edghill ask fuh info pun who and who get blacklist from leaving de country, he didn’t only write back to Ten Edghill, ee promise to help him without any staff. That is de kind of justice, law and order, and decency dem boys talking bout coming from a man who use to sit in a chair as a judge of de Appeal Court in de country of Guyana. Talk half and pray fuh de new administration under de likes of Ramson.

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

Kaieteur News

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN...

MTV isn’t going to use me against the government You have to be suspicious of people when they have ignored you all the time, then they turn up suddenly, and pay you recognition. Channel 65 MTV was founded by the PPP and was registered under the names of certain PPP leaders with Robert Persaud being the manager and his wife the marketing officer. MTV is known in Guyana as the PPP channel. In the fifteen years of the Jagdeo/ Ramotar reign, MTV never asked me to comment on anything. I didn’t exist for

them. Several times last week, the MTV reporter kept calling me for my c o m m e n t a r y. O n o n e occasion I was walking my dog on the Turkeyen seawall and the crew agreed to meet me there for t h e i n t e r v i e w. I w a s flattered that MTV has now recognized that I have views on what goes on in society. Yesterday (Tuesday), MTV called again. I was at the veterinary surgeon. My dog was sick. They did the interview at the vet’s clinic. So the first thing I asked was; what do you want to talk about? I was told my contract termination at UG is a topic That one really floored me. On January 18, 2012 when the news was announced, a strike at UG followed, the Chancellor’s resignation was demanded, all of this was carried in the newspapers and electronic

media but MTV never asked me for a viewpoint. When the cameras began to roll on me yesterday, I brought that observation and said; “better late than never.” Now interestingly, none of the questions were on the activities of SARA and SOCU. None of the questions were on the violations committed against me and my family during the reign of Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar. But all of the questions were on the APNU-AFC performance. I brought up the reign of Jagdeo. Will MTV broadcast what I said about the long nights of Jagdeo and Ramotar? I am no cricketer but I think I batted well. In response to my take on sugar, I asserted that sugar is dead and the industry cannot be kept alive but I forcefully concluded that the sugar lands should be given to the workers; if not the government must find

employment for them. Asked about the two years’ performance of the APNU+AFC; I used the opportunity to sermonize about the evil of the Jagdeo years. I did use the word “evil.” When the interview was over, I told the crew I expect all my critiques of Jagdeo to be deleted. My point to the MTV interviewer was unambiguous and pellucid the two years of APNU+AFC rule could not conceivably be compared to the evil of the Jagdeo regime. I made the trenchant statement that the Jagdeo hegemony was the worst atrocity the British West Indies has ever witnessed. I don’t know if that part of the interview will be carried but I did tell the entire crew I doubt any of my criticism of the PPP governmental depravities as described by me in the interview will be aired? Then I took a wager with one of the crew members.

The bet is as follows; he knows that MTV will carry my anti-Jagdeo vocabulary. I am saying it will not. If he wins, I buy what he wants. If I win, he buys what I want. He is a working class guy and I will not make a ponderous demand. I think I will settle for the latest Johnny Mathis album, about to be released; he will have to ask Matt’s Record Bar to download it. Of course the natural question was how is the economy doing? I couldn’t bring myself to deny that there are indentations in the economy since the APNU+AFC took office but there is an explanation and I offered one to the interviewer. Drug money and money laundering are being confronted by the Granger presidency. It means that consumer spending is down. I explained that when drug money was building high rise structures, the spin off was national – more consumer spending

Frederick Kissoon from every angle. That is gone. When it went, less money began to circulate. So there we are – the PPP aligned media house has sought my comments. I don’t know if Tuesday’s occurrence will occur again. But this I can and will tell MTV – I will be not be used by MTV to heap criticism against this government. I will denounce the fifteen years of disastrous domination by the Jagdeo/ Ramotar cabals. If MTV comes again, I will speak and I will offer more evidence of the insanity Guyana experienced under Jagdeo and his sycophant, Donald Ramotar

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Kaieteur News

Public Health Ministry wants more emergency drugs

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Ministry of Public Health The Ministry of Public Health has gone to tender to procure emergency pharmaceutical supplies for the regional and clinic services

Guyana Elections Commissions Consultancy Services for the Design and Supervision of Registration Office at Mabaruma Region 1

Ministry of Communities Solid Waste Disposal Programme- Hydro geological and Geotechnical Investigation at Proposed Landfill Site

Procurement of Three 4x4 Double Cab Vehicles

Ministry of Natural Resources Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement on REDD+ Readiness Activities in Guyana

Consultation for the Development of a Grievance and Redress Mechanism GRM for REDD+ Implementation in Guyana

Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Supply of Sheet Materials

Construction of Extension of Main Guard Hut

Construction of Internal Drains

COI calls for probe into school feeding programme - to determine if Ministry is getting value for money A probe into the school feeding programme might be necessary to ensure that it is serving the purpose for which it is intended. This has been a recommendation coming out from the recently completed Commission of Inquiry [COI] into the education system. The Commissioners are of the opinion that the Ministry of Education has not been getting value for money when it comes to the feeding programme. “The Commissioners are recommending that another look be given to the school feeding programme,” said Chairman of the COI, Mr. Ed Caesar. “We have gone to so many places and we are hearing the same thing...‘We want the School Feeding Programme but we don’t like some of the juices’. Some parents are telling their children not to accept the biscuits,” Caesar said. According to him, teachers have found it necessary on many occasions to package biscuits in black bags and give it to their charges to take home. But this move has not found favour with all parents. “Some parents have sent back reports to teachers saying ‘Don’t send any biscuits home’,” informed Caesar as he pointed out that there have been several suggestions forthcoming to improve the programme. “‘We would like to have another kind of juice’, has been the appeal of some parents,” Caesar said, even as he pointed out that there have been many complains. “For example, they complained a lot about the mango juice...It has really been something that we listened to almost everywhere we went. Give us sandwiches sometimes; Change the flavour of the biscuit; make the biscuit in different shapes sometimes and in some places they said give us milk sometimes,” said Caesar. He added, “Everywhere that we went and ‘Nursery business’ came up that was the cry so we need to look at it very carefully.” The school feeding programme, which commenced in February 2010 was intended to guard against children having to attend school hungry. Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine since taking up the Education Minister portfolio in 2015 has said publicly, “hungry children will have difficulty focusing on their work.” He’d explained that areas in which the school feeding programme was implemented saw increases in student attendance rates and improved academic performances. The programme is one that targets students from grades one to three. The Education Ministry has over the years received support from the Ministry of Local Government then Ministry of Communities and other stakeholders to ensure that the initiative is successfully

implemented. This has been the case in parts of Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Ten and Georgetown. Regions Seven, Eight and Nine are targeted separately. There have been financial concerns with the programme which were long highlighted in the Auditor General Report. These have translated to some systems of accountability lacking within the public education system to monitor the ongoing multi-million-dollar programme which is designed to provide a meal to pupils during school hours. In the 2015 Auditor General Report, which was laid in the National Assembly in October 2016, amounts totalling $419.582M were expended on the Ministry’s School Feeding Programme. It was made clear that the programme is one that caters to the purchase of juice and biscuits which constitute the meal given to the pupils. Following a process of examination of payment vouchers, discrepancies were uncovered. This, according to the Report, translated to monthly distribution reports not being returned by the Divisional Officers to the Book Distribution Unit (BDU) which has responsibility for distributing the juices and biscuits to schools within the respective Regions. Another sum amounting to $309.731M was expended, and it was found that monthly distribution reports were not always returned to the Book Distribution Unit in 2015. According to the Report, “The nonsubmission of the monthly distribution reports made it impractical to ascertain whether the schools had received the juices and biscuits for the period for which reports were un-presented.” Based on the information detailed in the Audit Report, at the time of reporting reports were outstanding for many months for Regions One, Seven and Eight. While there was an outstanding report for Region One for October 2014, Region Seven had outstanding reports for the months of January to June and September to November 2014 and February to June, 2015. Reports were also yet to be received for the months of February to April, June, September to November 2014 and February and May to June, 2015 for Region Eight. The Ministry has acknowledged the nonsubmission of monthly distribution reports but has noted that there are individual listings for each school substantiating delivery. Although this publication was not able to ascertain whether these issues were addressed, the Audit Office has recommended that efforts be made to ensure that functioning systems be put in place to account for the distribution of juice and biscuits which constitute the School Feeding Programme.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Kaieteur News

Nine-member delegation to attend CFATF meetings For the first time, Guyana will be represented by a nine-member delegation at the Caribbean F i n a n c i a l A c t i o n Ta s k F o r c e ( C FAT F ) X LV Plenary Meetings, scheduled to be held in Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o , (T&T), this month. According to information provided by the Legal Affairs Ministry, in recognition globally of the complexity of the 4th Round Mutual Evaluations, and in order to achieve the level of compliance set by the CFATF, a Compliance Team was established by the Attorney General and

Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, to ensure that Guyana is adequately prepared for the challenges. The delegation comprises not only members of the CFATF Working Groups, but also members of the newly established Compliance Team. The nine- member Guyana team includes the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams S.C., who will be accompanied by his S p e c i a l A d v i s e r Te s s a Oudkerk, Director Matthew Langevine, Senior Legal Adviser Alicia Williams

and Legal Adviser Yonette Scarville of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). It will also include the Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), Sydney James, Bank of Guyana Governor, Gobind Ganga, and Director of Bank Supervision Department Ramnarine Lal of the Bank of Guyana, and Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Teshanna Lake. The Attorney General sought to have c o r r e s p o n d i n g counterparts from Guyana attend the meeting in order for public sector officials to meet and interact with

their colleagues from across the Region and establish networks where possible for future collaboration, sharing experiences and assisting each other in being better prepared for the challenges of the 4th Round Mutual Evaluations. The Plenary meetings will allow for discussion of various matters of interest to members as well as members’ Mutual Evaluation reports. The meeting will be chaired under by the Honorable Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, Attorney-General, and Turks and Caicos.

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

Kaieteur News

Education should not stop at the school gates - says Education Minister There is an urgent need to revitalised Parent-Teacher Associations [PTA]. This is the view of Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, who has asserted that “this [revitalised PTAs] for me is key.” The Minister intimated, “I have believed right from the beginning that without active and energetic PTAs we are not going to succeed. Education cannot end at the school gates and children are left after that; nor [at] the bus park and everything that happens there [as they] go back home.” The Minister is convinced that it is particularly important that the PTAs become fully involved in the education process. “I would really want to see PTAs established and the community-based concerns

...touts introduction of education-focused community groups

Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine about education be addressed.” To achieve this goal, the Minister said that there should be, in every single community, a kind of education group that

examines what happens in the school system. “Getting the full community involvement in what it is [the education sector] is attempting to do [is important]. They have expectations and they have special needs. We have to make sure that we are in touch with them,” said Minister Roopnaraine, with reference to the communities. The Education Ministry cannot operate in isolation and thus must be able to relate to those within the communities, he said. “The Education Ministry cannot be remote from all of the issues that are in fact holding back the development of the country. I think the more we advance in the education sector, the more we have to get our schools operating the way we want them to operate. The more we can diversify the experience at school the more we will be able to energise the children rather than exhaust them,” posited Minister Roopnaraine. Once focused effort is directed to the education system, the Minister is confident that “we will be well on the way to producing the kind of education sector,

the kind of education system that the country needs if we are going to further advance.” He continued, “We have a great deal of work to do. There is no doubt at all but the Education Ministry is one of the biggest Ministries in the country. It has its own demands and these are demands we have to meet.” But according to Minister, there has been no lack of support in the sector. “I want to salute my education officers throughout the country who have been working diligently...and I know a lot of them are working in conditions that are less

than optimal.” The Minister also commended the work of head teachers and teachers for working in conditions which he described as challenging a lot of the time. In the drive to further improve the sector, Minister Roopnaraine said that moves will be made to implement recommendations of a recently completed Commission of Inquiry [COI] in to the education sector. “My hope is that in a year’s time when we meet again we will be able to report to you that most of the findin g s o f t h e C O I recommendations have

been taken up by the Ministry and we would h a ve executed the recommendations. That is what I would like to be able to report at the end of a year.” Since taking up the portfolio of Education Minister, it has been Dr. Roopnaraine’s mantra “to get education right.” According to him, “if we don’t get education right, we will not get anything else right. It is as fundamental as that. And I think people have listened and the COI that we have established...will give us the kind of base information that we need to improve the sector.”

Uitvlugt ready to take Wales cane by second crop - GuySuCo Uitvlugt factory, West Coast Demerara.

The Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) has announced major headway in its plans to move production from Wales to Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara. The century-old Wales sugar estate was closed in December by the administration, which had vowed to revamp the lossmaking company, saying it was highly inefficient. Some workers were shifted to Uitvlugt while others were made redundant. GuySuCo had announced plans to reconfigure a number of routes to move canes from the Wales estate to Uitvlugt. According to the stateowned corporation yesterday, as part of the Uitvlugt Estate Improvement Programme (UIP), its Board of Directors has approved a programme where interested cane farmers with the requisite capacity can be leased lands at Uitvlugt estate. A significant percentage of the canes that were milled

at Wales factory are closer to Uitvlugt Estate and will now be transported to and milled there. “Cane farmers who were further away from Uitvlugt estate, who found it uneconomical to transport their canes to Uitvlugt Factory were encouraged to apply to lease lands at Uitvlugt Estate.” According to GuySuCo, the factory at the Uitvlugt Estate is configured differently from Wales, hence modifications are currently being done to enable the factory to accommodate farmers’ canes delivered in trailers. “Prior to the closure of Wales factory, cane farmers transported their canes to Wales Estate by punts and also by road in tractor/trailer units, both of which were unloaded by a cane gantry. On the other hand, Uitvlugt factory, as presently configured, can only unload punts and uses a punt dumper for this task.

The modifications at Uitvlugt include the relocation of the cane gantry, cane scale, feeder table and auxiliary carrier from Wales Factory to Uitvlugt. GuySuCo disclosed that this would be completed in time for the commencement of the second Crop, 2017 at Uitvlugt. A temporary trailer parking area and wooden bridge across the irrigation canal carrying water from the Boerasiri conservancy is also in progress for completion by the start of the second crop – a permanent trailer park, concrete bridge over the irrigation canal, upgrade of dams (including Pumpkin Dam) to all-weather roads and other infrastructural works will follow in due course. “The relocation of the Gantry, Cane Scale, Feeder Table and Auxiliary Carrier is contracted to Nabi Construction Inc. whilst the Uitvlugt Estate is undertaking works on the temporary bridge and trailer park.”

Wednesday May 24, 2017

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Kaieteur News

International Narcotics Control Report…

Fishermen implicated in deadly ‘pirate’ attack USA anticipates - suspect’s brother rescued two crewmen; later learnt sibling was involved

As they consumed alcohol at a koker two Tuesday nights ago, Rose Hall, Corentyne fishermen ‘Rambo’ and ‘Antenna’, allegedly hatched a plot to rob some of their own friends who were out at sea. Armed with cutlasses, they reportedly then went out into the Corentyne River, where they attacked 51-yearold boat captain, Mahadeo Ramdehol, also known as ‘Chico’, of 146 Kilcoy Squatting Area, and his two crewmen, Arjun Permaul, 45, and Parmanand Nandan, 21. After allegedly relieving the victims of some fish and their outboard engine, and striking Ramdehol on the head with a cutlass, the attackers forced the victims to jump overboard. Ramdehol’s body was found the following day near the Rose Hall foreshore. A postmortem revealed that he had drowned. But in an amazing stroke of fate, the other two fishermen, Arjun Permaul and Parmanand Nandan, were pulled to safety by the brother of one of the robbers, who had gone fishing a few hours later, and had no clue of his sibling’s murderous plan. That is the story that the two prime suspects, have reportedly told ranks from the Force’s Major Crimes Unit, after being transported from Berbice to Georgetown for questioning. They are among three suspects who are in custody

DEAD BOAT CAPTAIN: Mahadeo Ramdehol

SURVIVOR: Arjun Permaul

SURVIVOR: Parmanand Nandan

and who are likely to face murder charges shortly. Police identified the alleged ‘pirates’ by the aliases ‘Rambo’, a 51-year-old fisherman of Rose Hall, Corentyne, and ‘Antenna’, a 57-year-old from Rose Hall, Corentyne. The third detained man is ‘Davo’ the 57-year-old brother of ‘Rambo.’ One of the suspects was detained on Saturday, while the others were arrested on Tuesday. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum confirmed the arrests and said that investigators have approached the courts to detain the first suspect for another 72 hours. Investigators from ‘B’ Division, Berbice, recovered the stolen boat engine on Monday. A relative of the slain boat captain revealed yesterday that the family knows at least one of the

detained men. While being questioned by Major Crimes ranks, ‘Rambo’ and ‘Antenna’ said that after drinking by a koker last week Tuesday, they took their boat about a mile out into the Corentyne River. There, they encountered fishermen Mahadeo Ramdehol, Arjun Permaul and Parmanand Nandan. The survivors would later reveal that the ‘pirates’ were masked and that the attack occurred at around 18:30 hrs, about a mile away from the Tain, Corentyne foreshore. One survivor recalled that they had just retreated to the cabin of the boat after having dinner, when the masked men rammed their vessel. The ‘pirates’ ordered the crew to switch off the lights of the vessel, and enter the ‘pirates’ boat. They then set the victim’s boat, the Varuni

L loose alight. Afterwards, Rambo’ allegedly struck boat captain Ramdehol and ordered the three victims to jump into the river. They then returned to shore with their loot. Meanwhile, a brother of the suspect ‘Rambo,’ who was not involved in the attack, went out to fish and saw fishermen Arjun Permaul and Parmanand Nandan swimming and signaling for help. He took the victims to land. It was then that the suspect, known as ‘Antenna,’ revealed that he and ‘Rambo’ had carried out the attack and stole the victims’40 Horsepower Yamaha outboard engine. The rescuer allegedly then helped his brother and accomplice to hide the outboard engine. Boat captain Mahadeo Ramdehol is survived by his wife, Chitrani Jaipersaud, and sons, aged 19 and 16.

tangible progress in fight against corruption, probes The United States of America is looking forward to tangible progress in Guyana. This is especially as it relates to investigations, prosecutions, and the enforcement of laws regarding anti-money laundering and financial crimes. This is according to the 2017 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (Volume 1: Drug and Chemical Control). On the issue of corruption, the report noted that as a matter of policy, the Government of Guyana does not encourage or facilitate the illicit production or distribution of narcotics or psychotropic drugs or other controlled substances or the laundering of proceeds from illegal drug transactions. The report also highlighted the fact that Guyana is a party to the InterAmerican Convention against Corruption. It was noted however that Guyana has not “fully implemented” the Convention’s provisions, such as the seizure of property obtained through corruption. The government,

SARU Head, Dr. Clive Thomas however, has made moves towards this end with the establishment of the State Asset Recovery Unit (SARU). The government was also successful in having legislation passed for SARU to become a formal institution, with accommodation to be arranged beyond the walls of the Ministry of the Presidency. Under the former regime, Guyana lost between $28B and $35B every year through procurement fraud and an estimated $188B through the Continued on page 30

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

Kaieteur News

Woman promises kidney, disappears after collecting $150,000 from victim The police are looking for a woman who disappeared after collecting $150,000 from a kidney patient after promising the man one of her organs. The suspect, Bibi Kadir Khan, collected the cash from 28-year-old Ravi Narine for tests she claimed she was instructed to do by a doctor before the transplant could successfully take place. However, the woman has not been seen since. It was discovered that the doctor, who the woman claimed recommended the tests, never requested her to do such tests. Kaieteur News understands that the woman collected the cash on May 1, last. Narine explained, yesterday, that he went to see the doctor in April with a possible donor but was informed that the woman might not be a suitable match based on ethnicity. The doctor then informed him that there was a woman who went to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) last year to donate a kidney to someone but she did not continue with the process because the woman who needed the organ suffered a heart attack. “The doctor called her and asked if she would still be willing to donate the kidney and we arrange to meet on April 28 (last). He (doctor) told me that I don’t have to pay but I can help with her transportation and pay for any tests she has to do that can’t be done at the hospital,” Narine explained. A few days later Narine was introduced to the woman by the doctor. “After we meet and talk li’l, she went in the (doctor’s) room and come out back with a piece of paper and said that the doctor told her to do some tests and return Wednesday (May 3, last). I asked her how

much for the test and she said she think it’s about $60,000 so I told her to find out and tell me.” He further explained that later that day the woman called and informed him that the tests were actually $120,000 and that she would get it done at the same place she did it the last time on the West Coast Demerara. “She asked me if I can drop the money the Saturday (April 30). (Shortly after) she called back and said she made a mistake and that it was $150,000.” The 28-year-old said that he eventually met with the woman on May 01, last at Royal Castle in Vreed en Hoop, WCD and gave her the cash so that she can go and get the tests done as soon as possible. Kaieteur News was told that days passed and the woman failed to contact Narine. When he contacted her, she informed him that the doctor did not get to do the test because he was doing a transplant surgery. Frustrated with the woman pushing him around, Narine said that he made contact with the doctor who introduced him to the woman—it was there that he found out that the doctor never instructed the woman to do any tests. “The doctor called her and then she sent me a message that she will return the money. I pretended like I didn’t talk to the doctor and asked her why and she said that she will wait until the doctor is ready to do the tests,” Narine said. After several promises by the woman, the kidney patient has not received his money and he doesn’t have much time to waste. Anyone with information on Bibi Kadir Khan is asked to contact the nearest police station.

Wednesday May 24, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Municipalities call for salaries, not stipends Mayor of Region Ten, Linden, Carwyn Holland, made calls, last Friday, at the Municipal Conference 2017,for Guyana’s nine municipal leaders to be paid a salary and not a stipend. Municipal bodies would have held several meetings leading up to the conference. Holland explained that they are all of the belief that the meagre sum of $15,000 for mayors is not enough. Being a part of the local government drive, mayors, councilors and overseers are full-time positions which demand one’s unequivocal integrity and undeserved commitment, Holland said. He explained that young individuals make up the local municipalities. Many of the bodies have young families to take care of, and other responsibilities. The nine municipal bodies are at “the forefront of local democracy at community level.” That is a profound responsibility, Holland stated. All councilors are currently constrained to maintain jobs outside their council responsibilities in order to support themselves and families. It has become blatantly evident that the

responsibilities of the affirmation offices require a full time commitment, which is not possible without added compensation. The roles of councilors can no longer be considered and treated as part time jobs, Holland explained, “We are torn between fulfilling our municipal mandate and honoring our foremost responsibilities to our families.” It is imperative that our councilors fulfill their function effectively. This would drive development to another level, Holland noted. In some instances, councilors are precluded from remuneration from times missed at work. Even more unfortunate, some have lost their jobs. According to Holland, this therefore necessitates that councilors be given compensation commensurate with their works done in respective constituencies. Holland compared Guyana’s municipality stipends to Caribbean countries municipal bodies’ salary. In Jamaica the lowest paid councilor earns GY$181,000, in Trinidad GY$107,000 and in Brazil GY$829,000. In Guyana the highest paid council is the

mayor who earns GY$15,000. Holland called on the government to pay municipalities a wage; if youths are to be involved in the future of local government, compensation must be given. Guyana’s nine municipalities led by mayors, deputy mayors, and councilors are at the forefront of deeming local democracy at community level, a profound responsibility. That demands unequivocal integrity and undeserved commitment. “Today I petition for my mayoral counterparts to receive full time salaries. Our remuneration as political and administrative leaders of our municipalities is negligible. It has become blatantly evident that the responsibilities of the affirmation offices require a full time commitment that is not possible without added remuneration. All councilors are currently constrained to maintain jobs outside their council responsibilities in order to support themselves and families. “The roles of councilors can no longer be considered and treated as part time jobs in light of the changed requirement. This petition is

CANU seeks international help.... (From page 18) it would only be fair to charge persons after ranks have enough evidence to link the parties and the contraband— in this case, a successful prosecution is likely rather than to rush and come up short in court. Kaieteur News was told that the bust was made after CANU officials received a tip. When they acted, the boards were being packed into the truck. The truck driver and porters were arrested but were

subsequently released after it was discovered that the vehicle and its workers were hired to transport the timber. Reports are that Vieira is listed on the shipping documents as the representative of Naraine Lall, the shipper. The drug agency said that ranks conducted a search at the parapet in front of the premises of Akeem Mohamed of Lot 227 Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo, and searched a truck laden with several pallets of 1×6 dressed lumber boards prepared for export.

Several pieces of boards were drilled randomly by the ranks and revealed a whitish substance. They were packed between genuine boards.

driven by the realization of my mates and I. “We are torn between fulfilling our municipal mandate and honoring our foremost responsibilities to our families. In some

instances employers demonstrate leniency. He said that the tussle between vocation and the commitment to the people that they are elected to serve continues to be a point of

contention. Our youths must be inspired to be in the municipal development. However they will be deterred by the absence of remuneration, he added.

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

Kaieteur News

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Experienced hairdressers & nail technicians needed to work in salon at prime location in Georgetown. Call: 628-4388/225-9423 One experienced cook to work in restaurant also knowledge of baking, preferably from West Bank. Call: 678-3400 Handy boy, apply at Shanta’s, Lot 225 Camp Street. One live in female housekeeper for Georgetown. Call: 223-0654/ 225-0605 GT Express wanted contract cars, Dispatcher. Tel: 2310316/ 231-0002 Two Dynamic Individual with communications & sales techniques, computer skill @ KeyFood, Mc Doom location.

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. 1- 90"x90" Bed. Call: 657-6179 1 Complete Sawmill at Yarrowkabra Linden Soesdyke Highway and 1 F66 – Clarke, Ranger Skidder. Call: 609-8041/ 644-1190 Office furniture, used computers, display racks & stands for store use. Call:225-8066/624-6783 Lawn grass organic potting soil, supari Palm, foxtail, palm @ $1,000, Crotoon, Ashoka, Ficus, Exora. Call: 626-1044 Design & Make Aluminum windows, doors, stainless rails, showcases, rolling shutters, make & install automatic doors. Call: 2336818/677-5599/659-9999 Solar Panel 300 watts, size 39X77. Call: 657-2304 A set of Benz GL series stock Rims with Tyres. Call: 2252189. 48" Samsung TV, 2 full size beds, mattress & base, 2004 Allion, low mileage, lady driven. Call: 642-0243

VEHICLE FOR SALE 2 Hilux off Road pickups, GVV #1 5L Diesel #2 3RZ Gasoline, both 4X4 with differential lock plus O.H.D – Call: 673-7876/ 233-6218

VACANCY Welder/Fabricator for interior location. Applicants must be experienced with verifiable references. Call: 618-2020

Pitbull bus -$2,000,000. Call: 697-2550/ 613-1810

Clinic Assistant. Call: 6450110

2011 Nissan Duke, fully loaded low mileage, lady driven - $2.8M. Call: 6667748/ 653-0018

Professional cosmetologist @ Natural Beauty Salon & Spa located @ Grove Market Street, EBD. Call Ms Rashari: 652-5800

1 BMW 318I -$2.3M, Never register. Contact# 592 6500402 / 603-1402 170 Corona. Call: 696-1355

Cook, Baker and articulated hauler/dump truck operator for interior. Applicants must be experienced. Cal: 6182020 FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Prime Business Place to rent on Sheriff Street, for offices only. Call: 627-6740/227-8644 House to rent: Premniranjan Place, Prashad Nagar. Monthly rent US $3500. Contact: 610-0965 or 2275416 Space for bond. Call: 6172859/227-6629

PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 Recently-built 2-Storey concrete building (1,245 ft2) Parfaite Harmonie $7.9M neg. Contact 231-9690 For details. Recently-constructed 2Storey concrete building (2,030 ft2) Tuschen $7.5M neg. Contact 231-9690 for details.

Furnished apartment $30,000 monthly. Newly renovated, self-contained room, water & electricity. 12 Sussex Street Charlestown- Call: 689-8757, 219-1951

2 – 3 bedrooms bottom flat apartment, fully refurbished -$65,000 monthly with 2 months security. Call: 2201583 between 7am-5pm only.

Property at Annadale, East Coast Demerara. Call: 6787875/ 674- 6071

Responsible Hire Car Drivers. Call: 231-7200

House & land at Mon Repos -$19M. Call: 645-8543

EDUCATIONAL

1 live-in maid. Must be single and know how to cook creole food. Salary negotiable. Tel: 699-4878.

Aubrey Barker -$21M, Hadfield - $17M, Diamond- $3.5M, Grove, Land of Canaan, Schoonord, Queenstown, Enterprise, Good Hope. Call: 231-7850/ 618-7483

9 Course, Diploma in computer -$20,000, discount for CXC students 2017 @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 264-3057

Waitress and cook. Call: 6771248 Live in waitress to work in a bar- Call: 604-6606;692-4646

Property @ the corner of 172 20 Hora St. & Market St. Better Hope, East Coast Dem $12.5M neg. Call: 220-1583 between 7am-5pm only. 2 Story building with extralarge land in well built $74.5M. Call: 220-1583 between 7am-5pm only.

ACCOUNTANT (Parttime): 2nd/3rd Level ACCA; QuickBooks POS & Accounts. 4hrs on Saturday, every fortnight. Email: spers@msn.com Lorry Drivers and Salesmen, preferably from East Bank Demerara. Salary Negotiable. 266-4427 Manager: 5yrs experienced (cosmetics & jewelry) & knowledge about henna designs. Call: 671-5759/6576979/ send your application @ rahmangy1@yahoo.com Male & female workers: accountants, mechanic to look after drink machine. Call: 3302399

2 Bedrooms apartment to rent downstairs. Call: 668-8431

1 Nanny/Tutor to teach & care for 22 months boy. Apply to Alabama Trading, 65 Robb Street Bourda.

Wanted driver to sell water, must have lorry. Apply Nimbus Water. Tel: 2317002/ 6220445

CHEF AND ASSISTANT COOKCARNEGIE TRAINING OR GRILLING EXPERIENCE NEEDED. CALL: 225-7933, 173 SHERIFF STREET.

LAND FOR SALE 12 House lots 80X60 at Plantation Schoonard: water, light and roads, 1 min from Harbour Bridge. Call: 6152346/627-3443 1 House lot in #1 Canal 175X100 – price $3.5M. Call: 684-6048/694-4372

Computerized Accounting, Repairs, graphics courses @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 264-3057 Electronic Course. June 6th. The Trade of the Future. Make extra cash, easy! Abdul Electronics. Call: 226-6551/ 225-0391

Transported land at Well Street Ogle, E.C.D -$12M (twelve million dollars). Call: 650-5462 Farm (East Bank) -$2.6M & $3.2M, Providence (corner lot)- $5M, La Parfaite Harmonie-$1.6M, Uitvlugt $2.6M. Call: 658-5897/ 6511969 PEN PAL Pen pals male needed from E.B.E between the ages of 33 and 50. Call: 625-7692 Continued on Page 27

Wednesday May 24, 2017

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

Guyanese man Gold thief to stand trial for killing co-worker murdered, dumped in Trinidad drain

DEAD: Conrad Gittens (Facebook) Trinidad (Trinidad Guardian) - The body of the murder victim dumped at one of the country’s tourist attractions on Saturday has been identified as Guyanese national Conrad Gittens. Gittens, 50, lived at Princes Town with relatives, his estranged wife Nicole Gittens told members of the media yesterday at the Forensic Science Centre, St James. The mother of Gittens’s four children said although they were estranged, she was still hurting that the father of her children had been murdered in a brutal way. She said her husband was last seen alive bar hopping with friends on Friday night and then Sunday night homicide officers were showing her pictures of her murdered husband to confirm his identity. “He was a mason and an all-rounder. If anyone asks for help he would do it, he never look for trouble

or bacchanal with anyone. Yes he used to drink and he would tell me nobody buys drinks for him, so nobody could tell him to stop,” Gittens said. She said her husband was last seen with a woman around 6 am on Saturday. “He was never a fighter. I not feeling nice knowing he got killed. I know we had our little ups and downs but it’s not feeling nice hearing it,” Gittens said. According to police reports, officers of the Tableland Police Station were called to the Devil’s Woodyard around 3 pm on Saturday after the body of a man was found in a drain. A blood-stained stone was seen nearby. The Devil’s Woodyard is located in Hindustan, New Grant and is known for its mud volcanoes. Gittens was stabbed multiple times and police believe his body was dumped after being murdered elsewhere.

Neville Chandrawattie, the suspected mastermind behind a $93M staged robbery at the El Dorado Gold Trading Company in 2013, has been committed to stand trial at the High Court for the murder of his co-worker, Darran Chanmangra, which occurred on April 21, 2007 at Port Kaituma. Yesterday, a preliminary inquiry into the offence concluded before City Magistrate Judy Latchman during which the Magistrate ruled that a prima facie case had been made out against the murder accused at the close of the prosecution’s case presented by Attorneyat-Law Glen Hanoman. Chandrawattie of Sparta, Essequibo, who is being represented by Attorney Compton Richards, will go before a judge and jury at the next practicable sitting of the Demerara Assizes. According to reports, during the robbery Chanmangra, a gold and

MURDER ACCUSED: Neville Chandrawattie diamond dealer, was shot and killed. Chandrawattie was reportedly the General Manager (GM) of the Port Kaituma Region One Office of El Dorado Trading, responsible for the purchase of gold from miners. It was reported that the GM and other workers plotted to stage the robbery.

During the ordeal, Chandrawattie and some other workers were tied up and badly beaten. The men, leaving the GM tied up, reportedly took the gold and cash and headed back to Charity on the Essequibo Coast. Detectives from Georgetown were called in to probe. It was reported that Chandrawattie hatched the plot after he misused some of the monies entrusted to him by the company. It was during the police investigation that the mastermind cracked under pressure. He reportedly confessed to planning the heist and gave detectives a detailed account of the plot, including the names of all the parties involved. In May 2016, Chandrawattie and his accomplice, Anil Dairam, of Blairmont, Berbice, pleaded guilty to stealing raw gold valued at $22M and $71M before Magistrate Alex Moore in the Matthew’s Ridge

Magistrate’s Court. The charges were in relation the $93M gold heist. Chandrawattie was jailed for five years while Dairam was sent to prison for four years. The murder accused was charged in 2014 for the capital offence. He had spent 13 months on remand for the murder before he was granted bail in the sum of $750,000 by a Magistrate sitting in the Matthew’s Ridge Magistrate’s Courts. However, the prosecutor at that time sought the intervention of former Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). They both ordered that the decision be ignored since a Magistrate has no authority to grant bail to a murder accused. That Magistrate subsequently recused himself from the matter and it was transferred before City Magistrate Judy Latchman.

Enmore joins protest amidst anger... (From page 22) communities linked to Enmore/LBI and as now seen with the painful example of Wales. It is disconcerting that closure is being considered at Enmore/LBI, taking into account the investments in recent times. Significant sums were expended to construct the packaging plant through which GuySuCo receives the best prices for its sugar, according to the Sugar Commission of Inquiry (CoI).” The union also pointed out that over the years, GuySuCo spent large sums in field conversion to facilitate mechanized operations. “According to our information, Enmore/ LBI is the most advanced estate in this regard in Demerara. It is perplexing that closure would be considered in view of the very good possibilities which are generally recognized.” GAWU said that the workers are calling

on the administration and GuySuCo to engage the unions in the sugar industry in meaningful dialogue to address the challenges the industry faces. “GAWU holds that the three meetings with members of the government were merely a façade meant to pull the wool over the eyes of the Guyanese people and moreso the sugar workers. “We urge that the voices of the working, productive people be heard by those in whose hands are levers of power and to engage in frank discussions to avoid the serious consequences of closure on thousands of our working-people and their families.” Last year, the administration, noting the strain of GuySuCo on the country’s resources, announced the closure of the 100-year-old Wales estate, West Bank Demerara because of inefficiency. It sparked protests from the 16,000-plus workers of GuySuCo.

From Page 26 TO LET 4 AC Rooms/ 1 extra room, for business/offices @ 21 Seaforth St. C/Ville, Georgetown. Call: 226-1877, 624-7436, 654-9350 2&3 Bedrooms apartment, free Wi-Fi @ Nandy Park. Call: 641-3318 Newly constructed apartment in a safe and healthy environment. Call: 698-6496/ 622-6512

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Shortage of specialists hampers primary health care agenda

A section of the audience at the forum

Minister Karen Cummings delivers her presentation A shortage of specialist doctors has been severely affecting the Ministry of Public Health’s attempts to advance primary health care. This notion has been amplified by Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings. What obtains as a result of limited specialists in the system is that there continues to be far too many referrals of patients. This has moreover impacted negatively, the Ministry’s agenda to have more people utilise health care facilities in their respective regions. Dr. Cummings has admitted that “a paucity of specialist doctors in the region presents challenges to the public health system since it results in numerous patient referrals.” The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation [GPHC], the country’s main referral institution has been attracting the greatest referral traffic from the regional health facilities. But according to Minister Cummings, moves are apace to arrest this situation in the interim, even as the Ministry looks to incorporate a permanent solution.

This has translated to the temporary placement of some specialist doctors who visit regional communities as the need arises. According to Minister Cummings, some of the specialist areas that are covered in this regard are orthopedics, paediatrics, and ophthalmology. Minister Cummings disclosed, “We at the Ministry recognize that the effectiveness of the organization and management of service delivery in the regions depend on, among others, the competence and number of members of the regional health management teams as well as relevant management teams in health centres, health posts, and communities. These teams must effectively coordinate the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of health service delivery,” she added. In strengthening the leadership of regional health management teams, the Minister noted that “there is need to ensure that regional health systems have technicallycompetent health management teams that give leadership at the regional health offices, district hospitals, regional hospitals, health cen-

tres, health posts and communities.” Added to this, the Minister said that district health management teams should also be competent enough to provide outstanding leadership in service delivery, health financing, information and health technologies, and general regional healthcare management. According to her, too, regional public health teams should be developed using formal and sustainable capacity-building programmes. “Continuously refining the implementation of a comprehensive package of essential health services is an excellent way of ensuring public health care services are available for respective communities.” The comprehensive health services package, she noted, should be based on population health needs. However since there are barriers to equitable expansion of access to services and available resources, she stressed that the package needs to be considered as the minimum that can be provided during a specified timeframe. Minister Cummings is convinced, too, that there is need to consider the complementary capacities of the dif-

Mom offers reward for missing son

MISSING: Jomel Thomas A mother, desperate to find her 24-yearold son, is offering a reward to anyone who may have information about his whereabouts.

Jomel Thomas, a juice vendor of Lot 449 West Ruimveldt Housing Scheme disappeared on May, 17, last. He has not been seen or heard from since. The young man, who sold local juices at Rasville, Georgetown (on the back road) was last seen wearing a pair of three-quarter white pants, white T-shirt with blue stripes and black slippers. His hair is braided. His mother, Jeanann Johnson, said that she was informed that when her son went out to ply his trade, he called his father shortly after and informed him that his juice was finished. Thomas then requested more juices. Later in the afternoon, when his father went to pick him up, Thomas was nowhere to be seen. A man who was in the area informed the 24-year-old relatives that he (Thomas) had borrowed his bicycle and never returned. A report was made with the police. Johnson said she is prepared to offer a special reward for anyone who may have information about her son. Anyone with information can contact the family on 223-3215, 621-1327 and 673-1292 or the nearest police station.

ferent levels of care and the necessary balance among promotional, preventive, curative and rehabilitative services. As such improving the organization and management of health service delivery will also positively impact on accessibility. But in order to ensure availability, quality and a continuum of public health care and to reduce the frequency of hospital visits by patients, Minister Cummings noted that there is need to use effective service delivery models that promote efficient referral systems and integration of services. This would therefore amplify the importance of integrated management of childhood illness, Dr. Cummings said. “There is need to improve the quality and quantity of integrated supervision to ensure continuity of superior health care. The interface between community public healthcare and the formal public health care system must be strengthened in order to improve access to essential services,” the Public Health Minister added. The Ministry of Public Health is working assiduously to ensure that “we realize universal health care. We want to establish comprehensiveness, as well as, peoplecentered public health care that are equitably administered regardless of one’s lo-

cation.” A national priority of the Ministry of Public Health is to deliver the highest quality of public healthcare to persons living in Guyana, regardless of their location or social status. Minister Cummings said that the Ministry’s commitment is to significantly narrow the gaps of inequity as it relates to the timely, efficient, and effective delivery of public healthcare that is of uncompromisingly high standards. But according to her, the achievement of all of these goals remains a work in progress as the Ministry continues to build capacity, particularly within the regions to better serve the people of Guyana. “We at the Ministry of Public Health recognize that access to healthcare services is critical for residents of rural communities. Ideally, residents should be able to conveniently and confidently use services such as primary care, dental, behavioural health, emergency, and public health services.” One of the nerve centers of the Ministry is the Regional Health Services Department (RHS) which is responsible for the delivery of public healthcare throughout the regions of Guyana. But one of the major challenges that affect the delivery of best quality healthcare is the vastly

remote geographical spread of some areas within the hinterland communities. Such is the geography of Guyana that it sometimes poses a transportation challenge to public healthcare professionals tasked with the delivery of care, treatment, and medicines to the communities they serve. According to Minister Cummings, “Residents of our hinterland communities often experience barriers to healthcare that limit their ability to get the care they need. In order for rural residents to have sufficient healthcare access, necessary and appropriate services must be available which can be accessed in a timely manner.” However, the Public Health Minister noted that in addition to having an adequate supply of healthcare services in the community, there are other factors that play a significant role in healthcare access and these too much be addressed to attain the goal of universal health care. Minister Cummings was at the time speaking at a Continuing Medical Education programme which was conducted by the Public Health Ministry in collaboration with the Bridges Global Medical Mission and other stakeholders in the health sector. This programme was (Continued on page 29)

BK vehicle release should have... (From page 21) to do with status. The law is no respecter of persons.” GRA, over the past year, has been cracking down on several persons who own high-end luxury rides brought into the country under duty free scams as well as smuggled. Many of the owners have reached a settlement with GRA rather than face a drawn-out, publicized battle in court. GRA had claimed much success in recovering taxes from this area. Last week, Edghill who sits as a member of the Parliamentary Accounts Committee (PAC), questioned how the vehicle was released from the wharf in the first place and

whether the number plates affixed to the SUV when it was stopped were ever assigned. He said that specifically, the Customs officials will have to report who called them to stand down. If they cannot say, it can be deduced that maybe no calls came and maybe the vehicle was released because corruption was involved. He said that if a settlement has been indeed reached, GRA must state why the vehicle has not been placed in the possession of the authority. If GRA and the Commissioner-General, Godfrey Statia, cannot say, then it can be concluded that the vehicle was deliberately allowed to go

and corruption was involved, Edghill said. There are several cases of persons being jailed and fined under the 2008 amended law. It was only last month that a Lusignan, East Demerara man, Elroy Livan, was jailed for one year and fined $1M for million for fraudulently imitating an identification mark. He was nabbed with a false number plate on a car in the Newtown, area. In January 2015, a security guard, Leroy Holder, 36, of D’Ur b a n S t r e e t , w a s jailed for two years and fined $1M. He had been found guilty of removing the original number plates and replacing them with false ones.

Wednesday May 24, 2017

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

D’urban Street fatal crash…

Victim ID’d as cricket British police name suicide bomber, coach Daniel Richmond threat level raised to critical

(Reuters) British police yesterday identified the suicide bomber who killed 22 people, including children, in an attack on a crowded concert hall in Manchester, and said they were trying to establish whether he had acted alone or with help from others. The man suspected of carrying out Britain’s deadliest bombing in nearly 12 years was named as Salman Abedi, aged 22, but police declined to give further details about him. U.S. security sources, citing British intelligence officials, said he was born in Manchester in 1994 to parents of Libyan origin. He is believed to have traveled by train from London before the attack, they said. “Our priority, along with the police counter-terrorism network and our security partners, is to continue to establish whether he was acting alone or working as part of a wider network,” Manchester Police Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said. The attacker set off his improvised bomb as crowds streamed out of the Manchester Arena after a pop concert by Ariana Grande, a U.S. singer especially popular with teenage girls. “All acts of terrorism are cowardly,” Prime Minister Theresa May said outside her Downing Street office after a meeting with security and intelligence chiefs. “But this attack stands out for its appalling sickening cowardice, deliberately targeting innocent, defenseless children and young people who should have been enjoying one of the most memorable nights of their lives.” Britain has increased its security threat level to “critical” from “severe” following the attack, May said in a later televised statement, adding that members of the armed forces would boost security at key sites and military personnel might be deployed at public events such as concerts and sports events. Islamic State, now being driven from territories in Syria and Iraq by Western-backed armed forces, claimed responsibility for what it called a revenge attack against “Crusaders”, but there appeared to be contradictions in its account of the operation. FRANTIC SEARCHES Witnesses related the horror of the blast, which unleashed a stampede just as the concert ended at Europe’s largest indoor arena, full to its capacity of 21,000.

Salman Abedi “We ran and people were screaming around us and pushing on the stairs to go outside and people were falling down, girls were crying, and we saw these women being treated by paramedics having open wounds on their legs ... it was just chaos,” said Sebastian Diaz, 19. “It was literally just a minute after it ended, the lights came on and the bomb went off.” A video posted on Twitter showed fans, many of them young, screaming and running from the venue. Dozens of parents frantically searched for their children, posting photos and pleading for information on social media. Singer Grande, 23, said on Twitter she was devastated: “broken. from the bottom of my heart, i am so so sorry. i don’t have words.” The attack was the deadliest in the UK since four British Muslims killed 52 people in suicide bombings on London’s transport system in 2005. But it will have reverberations far beyond British shores. Attacks in cities including Paris, Nice, Brussels, St Petersburg, Berlin and London have shocked Europeans already anxious over security challenges from mass immigration and pockets of domestic Islamist radicalism. Islamic State has repeatedly called for attacks as retaliation for Western involvement in the conflicts in Syria and Iraq. While claiming responsibility on its Telegram account, the group appeared to contradict the police description of a suicide bomber. It suggested explosive devices were placed “in the midst of the gatherings of the Crusaders”. “What comes next will be more severe on the worshippers of the cross,” the Telegram posting said. It did not name the bomber, as it usually does in attacks it has ordered, and appeared also to contradict a posting on another Islamic State account, Amaq, which spoke of “a group of attack-

ers”. That reference, however, was later removed. “DEPRAVED” May said security services were working to see if a wider group was involved in the attack, which fell less than three weeks before a national election. Campaigning was suspended as a mark of respect. May spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron and several other foreign leaders on Tuesday about the attack, her spokesman said. She also visited the police headquarters and a children’s hospital in Manchester. The White House said Trump had agreed with May during their telephone conversation that the attack was “particularly wanton and depraved”. Macron and senior French ministers walked to the British embassy in Paris to sign the condolence book. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said it “will only strengthen our resolve to...work with our British friends against those who plan and carry out such inhumane deeds”. The U.N. Security Council condemned “the barbaric and cowardly terrorist attack” and expressed solidarity with Britain in the fight against terrorism. Queen Elizabeth held a minute’s silence at a garden party at Buckingham Palace in London. Manchester remained on high alert, with additional armed police drafted in. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said more police had been ordered onto the streets of the British capital. Police raided a property in the Manchester district of Fallowfield where they carried out a controlled explosion. British police do not routinely carry firearms, but London police said extra armed officers would be deployed at this weekend’s soccer cup final at Wembley and rugby at Twickenham. Security would be reviewed also for smaller events. In March, a British-born convert to Islam plowed a car into pedestrians on London’s Westminster Bridge, killing four people before stabbing to death a police officer who was on the grounds of parliament. The man was shot dead at the scene. In 2015, Pakistani student Abid Naseer was convicted in a U.S. court of conspiring with al Qaeda to blow up the Arndale shopping center in the center of Manchester in April 2009.

The man who perished in last Sunday’s crash involving a minibus and a Toyota Tacoma at the junction of D’Urban and Smyth Streets was identified yesterday. He is cricket coach, umpire and Guyana Cricket Board scorer, Daniel Richmond, of Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara. Richmond, who was in his sixties, had also once played cricket for the Guyana Police Force. Richmond was killed on Sunday when a speeding Toyota Tacoma slammed into the bus in which he was travelling at the intersection of D’Urban and Smyth Street, Georgetown. Fifteen other passengers, including the driver, Osafo Edghill, 42, were admitted to the GPHC. Edghill was admitted in an unconscious state. Those injured were identified as Brian James, 40; Kim Douglas, 49; Aviel Eversley, 35; Jelany Williams, 17; Ronaldo Bancroft, 15; Deon Goodridge, 27; Morris DeSouza, 16; Michael

Daniel Richmond Bumburry, 47; De Andre Smith, 17; Othien Otto, seven; Lynette Crawford, 42; Godfrey Daniels,35, and Jesemy (only name given). The driver of the Toyota Tacoma GRR 8350, fled the scene. Police said that a man who was treated at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre has claimed to be the driver. He was later admitted ‘under

police watch’ to a private hospital. Police had said they were still trying to ascertain whether he was the driver, following initial reports that a woman was at the wheel at the time of the crash. According to reports, the silver-coloured minibus bearing number plate BVV 5273 had just picked up passengers from the ‘South Park” and was proceeding east along D’Urban Street, when the driver of the bronzecoloured Toyota Tacoma, which was heading south along Smyth Street, failed to stop at the intersection. The Toyota Tacoma slammed into the side of the minibus which toppled several times and crashed into a utility pole before coming to a halt. An eyewitness said that he was walking west along D’Urban Street, when he saw the Toyota Tacoma “jump” across Smyth Street and slam into the minibus which he said was also travelling at a fast rate.

Venezuela’s Maduro vows to push ahead with new congress despite unrest (Reuters) Venezuela’s unpopular President Nicolas Maduro yesterday vowed to push ahead with a new congress to rewrite the constitution, despite dissent within his own ranks and major protests in the OPEC nation convulsed by nearly two months of unrest. In the latest sign of internal fissures, a magistrate of the pro-government Supreme Court spoke out against the planned assembly, saying it was “not the solution to the crisis” and called on Maduro to “think carefully” to avoid more bloodshed. At least 53 people have been killed as a result of unrest that began in early April. Riots and looting have underlined risks that protests could spin out of control given widespread hunger, anger at Maduro and easy access to weapons in one of the world’s most violent countries. Undeterred by opposition, Maduro yesterday presented the 540member “constituent assembly” project as a cure to Venezuela’s demonstrations, which he says are a U.S.-backed attempt to overthrow “21st century Socialism.” “Votes or bullets, what do the people want?” Maduro asked a crowd of red-shirted supporters waving Venezuelan flags at the Miraflores presidential

Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro holds a document with the details of a ‘constituent assembly’ to reform the constitution during a rally at Miraflores Palace in Caracas, yesterday. REUTERS/Carlos Barria palace. “Let’s go to elections now!” he said, before detailing how the new assembly will be partially elected by votes at a municipal level and partially by different groups, including workers, farmers, students, and indigenous people. Opposition leaders say the project is a sham

designed to avoid a presidential vote slated for next year and keep Maduro in power despite an oil-rich economy in a tailspin. In the most telling sign of internal rumblings against Maduro, Venezuela’s state prosecutor panned his plan for a grassroots congress and warned it risked deepening the crisis.

Shortage of specialists... (From page 28) intended for physicians, nurses, medical students, nursing students and allied health professionals to explore current best practices regarding medical issues impacting the community at large. The medical conference is to help update local professionals on current approaches that can lead to the reduction in morbidity and mortality in their respective milieus and to identify public health and medical practices that can impact health care delivery. Minister Cummings address focused on ‘Challenges in Access and Delivery of Healthcare Programmes’.

PAGE 30

Govt. spends over $8M for Region Eight flood relief ...56 houses washed away, 266 farms destroyed The government has already released over $8M to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to reach out to the flood affected residents of Region Eight and Seven. Also, the government is set to spend millions more in order to rebuild the houses that have been washed away and to restore farm lands that have been destroyed. Yesterday, Deputy Director of CDC, Major Kester Craig, hosted a press conference at the agency’s Thomas Land location. He told the media that $7.9M was calculated to have been spent up to yesterday morning. Just over $2M of that sum accounted for air transportation to the Regions. However, Craig said that more flights were to be made yesterday. Cost for those flights will easily take the money spent so far over the $8M mark. The money quoted by Craig only accounted for what Government spent out of pocket. Monies and items donated were not included in that sum. Craig indicated that 56 houses have been washed away with Waipa recording the highest number of houses destroyed—24. Craig said that 3,274 residents have been affected and 266 farms have been destroyed.

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Kaieteur News

Deputy Director of CDC, Major Kester Craig Craig reported that the health post at Kaibarupai was flooded; the school at Itabac has shifted and is unstable; the school at Kanapang is being used as temporary shelter but the kitchen at that school has been damaged. While the waters have receded from the villages, help is still needed. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, recently visited the villages of Itabac and Kanapang in the PotaroSiparuni (Region Eight) area where he assured the residents that the Government will use every resource at its disposal to

restore normalcy in the communities. He said that support will be given for the restoration of livelihoods and the rebuilding of homes. “We are going to make a special effort to look at the houses that have been washed away. We will bring items for you that you may need for now and I will ask some of the CDC volunteers and the [Guyana Defence Force] GDF to come and assist in rebuilding efforts,” he said. Harmon continued, “The farms that have been destroyed, this is your livelihood and we have to pay attention to it as the Government. I will ask the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs to send a representative and to see what assistance we can give to you to ensure that you can have your livelihood back. We will make an assessment and assist you,” he said. There have been no reports of increases in waterborne and other flood-related illnesses in any of the flood affected communities in Region Eight. The Minister during his visit, was accompanied by Craig and other government officials. (Abena RockcliffeCampbell)

Court dismisses challenge against Justice Holder …Plaintiff accused judge of abuse of privilege

Chief Justice (Ag), Roxane George

Justice Franklyn Holder

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams

The Court has dismissed a challenge against Justice Franklyn Holder over a perceived failure to make records in a case where a litigant was engaged in a property dispute with his adopted mother. The challenge was filed by Shirland Ashton Johnson, an electrician of Cross Street, Werk- en-Rust, Georgetown. According to court documents seen by this newspaper, in an initial action the applicant (Johnson) had moved to court to challenge Daphne Rogers, his adopted mother, for prescriptive rights to the property located at Lot 60/61 Cross Street, Werk-enRust. Johnson had contended that he is entitled to prescriptive title of the property, since he occupied the premises since 1982. Johnson said he and his family lived at the property for over 10 years and invested over $10 M in maintaining, renovating and restructuring the building in question. But Rogers, who lives at La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara later filed action in the High Court for possession of the property, while the matter was being debated in the Land court. That matter came up before Justice Holder.

However during the hearing, Johnson contended that among other things, Judge Holder refused to grant leave to facilitate the cross examination of the plaintiff, (Rogers). He claimed that “the learned trial judge refused to make (any) recordings of his lawyer‘s application for leave to cross examine Rogers.” Johnson also noted that he was informed via public information and what appeared in the press of another matter which involves an Attorney of the State (Attorney General) in which the latter requested that his submission be recorded by the judge in question. He added, “There was neither court recorder nor electronic equipment recording the proceeding at the hearing… A reasonable inference is that the learned trial Judge did not record the application and submission.” The applicant therefore emphasized that his right to a fair trial outlined in Article 144(8) of the Constitution of Guyana was contravened; that law allows for right to a fair hearing through accurate writing and recording of the judgment by the trial judge. In a decision dated December, 28, 2016, Judge

Holder struck out Johnson’s affidavit in defence. But the applicant through his Attorney, Saphier Husain challenged the judge over his alleged mismanagement of records in the case. The case filed on April 6, 2017 listed the Attorney General, Basil Williams and Justice Holder as defendants in the matter. The judge was represented by Attorneys- atlaw Teni Housty and Attorney from the AG chambers Leslyn Noble while Johnson was represented by Husain. The application was filed on the grounds of a violation of Johnson’s constitutional rights. He claimed damages in excess of $100,000. In her ruling earlier this month, Chief Justice, Roxane George, dismissed Johnson’s appeal. According to documents seen by this newspaper, Justice George refused the application, citing that it has no grounds and was an abuse of the court process. Based on the submission proffered and in applying the part 64:08 (2) of the civil procedure rule, the CJ also awarded Justice Holder and the Attorney General, $40,000 and $50,000 in court cost respectively.

USA anticipates tangible progress... From page 15 underground economy. This is according to the State Asset Recovery Unit. The SARU officials have said that the aforementioned is actually a “conservative” numerical image of the state of corruption under the former administration. Furthermore, SARU officials have noted that in accordance with Article 54 (1) (c) of the United Nations’ Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), each State Party must “consider taking such measures as may be necessary to allow confiscation of property without criminal conviction”. The anti-corruption body said that it is in this context that the SARA legislation was

designed to facilitate the recovery of illicitly obtained property through civil processes, with the primary objective of reducing the consequential damaging effects of corruption on sustainable development. In some areas of corruption, SARU officials said that the size of loss speaks for itself. The anti-corruption body said that the scale of corruption discovered by SARU, to date, is astounding. It has also acknowledged that the Guyanese population is eager to see the country’s assets recovered and appropriate action taken against the perpetrators of corruption.

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Kaieteur News

Barbados AG concerned about violence across the region BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Attorney General Adriel Brathwaite has voiced concern about the level of violence across the Caribbean, stating that the region as a whole seems to “under attack”. Brathwaite, who was speaking at the opening of an Anti-Money Laundering Workshop for judges and prosecutors here on Monday said the “repeated and

senseless violence in Barbados and across the region is unprecedented.” Expressing concern over the way of life in recent years, the Attorney General, who also holds responsibility for Home Affairs, said such workshops were important and essential. Brathwaite maintained that the same way judges and prosecutors convened to undergo training and discuss

issues pertaining to national security, criminals also undergo training. “They have the best resources to work out how [to] get ar o u n d o u r respective territories, and inflict as much harm as possible. And, as I said p r e v i o u s l y, I a m v e r y concerned over the state of our region and the direction that it is heading.”

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

Ex-CIA chief: Worries grew of Trump campaign contacts to Russia (Reuters) Former CIA director John Brennan said yesterday he had noticed contacts between associates of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and Russia during the 2016 election and grew concerned Moscow had sought to lure Americans down “a treasonous path.” Brennan, who headed the agency until Trump became president in January, also told a congressional hearing that he personally warned the head of Russia’s FSB security service in a phone call last August that meddling in the election would hurt relations with the United States. Separately, the top U.S. intelligence official, Dan Coats, sidestepped a question on a Washington Post report that Trump had asked him and the National Security Agency chief to help him knock down the notion there was evidence of such collusion. But Coats did say he has made clear to Trump’s administration that “any political shaping” of intelligence would be inappropriate. The comments by Brennan and Coats, the Director of National Intelligence, added fuel to a controversy that has engulfed Trump since he fired FBI Director James Comey two weeks ago amid the agency’s investigation into possible collusion between people associated with his presidential campaign and Russia. “I encountered and am aware of information and intelligence that revealed contacts and interactions between Russian officials and U.S. persons involved in the Trump campaign,” Brennan’s said in testimony to the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee. Brennan said that he cannot say definitively there was actual collusion. Brennan’s testimony was

Former CIA director John Brennan testifies before the House Intelligence Committee in the U.S. Capitol in Washington yesterday. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque the first public confirmation of the worry at high levels of the U.S. government last year over suspicious contacts between Trump campaign associates and Moscow. It was also the most complete account to date of the CIA’s thinking at a time when intelligence agencies were putting together evidence that Russia was interfering in the heated U.S. presidential race to help businessman Trump, a Republican, defeat Democratic Party candidate Hillary Clinton. Comey was heading the Federal Bureau of Investigation probe into Russian interference and possible collusion with Trump’s campaign, leading to accusations by Trump critics that he has sought to curtail the FBI inquiry. In another development, Trump has retained Marc Kasowitz, a New York-based trial lawyer who has represented Trump in the past, as his private attorney for special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into the Russia matter, a Fox Business Network reporter said on Twitter. U.S. intelligence agencies concluded in January that

Moscow tried to tilt the election campaign in Trump’s favor, including by hacking into the emails of senior Democrats. Russia has repeatedly denied the allegation. Trump has denied any collusion but the FBI and congressional probes into the Russia matter have dogged the early months of his presidency. “It should be clear to everyone Russia brazenly interfered in our 2016 presidential election process and that they undertook these activities despite our strong protests and explicit warning that they do not do so,” Brennan said. Brennan said he worried that Russians tried to recruit Americans during the presidential campaign to work for Moscow. Brennan said it was possible for someone to be helpful to the Russian cause without realizing it. “They (the Russians) try to suborn individuals and they try to get individuals, including U.S. persons, to act on their behalf either wittingly or unwittingly,” he said, adding that “individuals going on a treasonous path often do not realize it until it is too late.”

China urges North Korea talks, skirts questions on U.S. sanctions push (Reuters) China yesterday pushed for dialogue with North Korea and the full implementation of United Nations sanctions over Pyongyang’s ballistic missile and nuclear tests, skirting questions about Beijing’s talks with the United States on possible new measures. Almost a month ago Washington began discussions with North Korea ally China on strengthening U.N. sanctions. However, a week ago U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley said Beijing had gone quiet. Traditionally, the United States and China have negoti-

ated new sanctions before involving the other 13 U.N. Security Council members. The Trump administration has been aggressively pressing China to rein in North Korea, warning that all options are on the table if Pyongyang persists with its weapons development. When asked yesterday if Beijing was talking to Washington about possible new sanctions, China’s U.N. Ambassador Liu Jieyi said: “It’s up to the council to decide what we should do in the current situation. We’re working closely with other members.”

Liu spoke after a closeddoor Security Council meeting on North Korea’s latest missile test on Sunday. Pyongyang said it launched an intermediaterange ballistic missile which met all technical requirements and could now be mass-produced, although U.S. officials questioned the extent of its progress. The Security Council first imposed sanctions on Pyongyang in 2006 and ratcheted up the measures in response to five nuclear tests and two long-range missile launches. North Korea is threatening a sixth nuclear test.

Wednesday May 24, 2017

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

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England’s trophy credentials face...

Exclusive: Twice champion Kvitova set...

Behardien drops out, having featured unobtrusively against Sussex and Northamptonshire. South Africa’s one-day side is fairly settled but they will probably need to pick one from Andile Phehlukwayo, Wayne Parnell and Dwaine Pretorius to complete the bowling. Pitch and conditions The recently completed Royal London Cup group stage saw runs aplenty in Headingley’s surfaces, with Yorkshire comfortably chasing down 336 against Durham, fuelled by 174 from Bairstow, and then amassing 349 for 7 in another batsmen’s beano against Derbyshire. The ground traditionally offers something for seamers, however, particularly if a few clouds interrupt the forecast sunshine; last year’s ODI with Pakistan was a nip-and-tuck affair in which England recovered from 72 for 4 chasing 248 to win by four wickets.

The draw for the French Open is due to be made at Roland Garros on Friday. Given the physicality required to play on clay, and the stress of a grand slam, it would still be a surprise if she does take her place in the draw at Roland Garros. If she decides not to play, Kvitova is likely to look to play a warm-up event on grass before Wimbledon, the venue where she has achieved most success. One of the cleanest ball-strikers on the Tour, she won her first grand slam title there in 2011, when she upset Maria Sharapova in the final. In 2014, she won the title again with a crushing 6-3 6-0 victory over Eugenie Bouchard in what is remembered as one of the best performances ever produced in the final. Her return would also be a welcome boost for the women’s Tour, especially with Serena Williams on maternity leave. Kvitova, who last played in the Fed Cup final against France on November 12, is ranked 16th.

(From page 32) Pune Supergiant were beaten in the IPL final, so he could not show the same, ahem, naked enthusiasm as Buttler, whose Mumbai Indians teammates lifted the trophy, but you can bank on Stokes putting the adulation to one side and focusing on attuning himself to 50-over cricket again as a key cog in England’s Champions Trophy machine. De Villiers’ form will certainly be of interest, while de Kock is returning from a finger injury that kept him out of the IPL, but both will benefit from a blockbusting batting order to help share the load. The key concern for South Africa is likely to be the balance of their seam attack. Morne Morkel has not played an ODI since June 2016 but got through the two warm-up matches unscathed and his experience could prove vital alongside Rabada and Chris Morris, who has stepped up as a new-ball option after Kyle

Abbott’s decision to take the Kolpak route to England rather than continue his international career. South Africa have a glut of seam-bowling allrounders in their squad but ideally need each to have a clear idea of their role going into the Champions Trophy. Team news The return of Stokes, Buttler and Woakes will mean changes to the team that beat Ireland comprehensively at Bristol and Lord’s earlier this month. Jonny Bairstow will feel most hard done by if he is edged out again, as expected, with Stokes coming back into the top six and Buttler taking the wicketkeeping gloves off Sam Billings. The extra bowling option could mean England revert to fielding both Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid, although David Willey and Liam Plunkett - the likeliest candidates to make way - have strong claims to play on their home ground. De Villiers’ availability is likely to mean Farhaan

Curry leads Warriors... (From page 37) Warriors’ domination of the series. “When you lose by an average of 20 points per game in the last three games, you look at them in the eyes and say, ‘Congratulations, man, you beat us fair and square. You were better than us.’ It’s the easiest thing to do.”

Barbados stun... (From page 34) quarter, a lead they converted into 21-18 advantage at half-time. Barbados continued to chip away at their deficit and out-scored the Jamaicans 1311 in the penultimate quarter to close the gap heading into the final stanza. With scores tied at 35 with four minutes remaining in the contest, Barbados then held their nerve best as Jamaica made critical turnovers to lose their way.

Petra Kvitova (REUTERS/David W Cerny) (From page 38) she had left her name on the entry list for the French Open, in part to ensure she had a positive mind-set as she continued her recovery. Earlier this month, she posted a photo of herself practicing in Monte Carlo.

Wednesday May 24, 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Don't forget family obligations. You should expect to have changes in your home. Female colleagues may be able to help you get the job done.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Don't count your chickens before they hatch. You will not be pleased with family members who try to put demands on you when you just don't have the time.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Your ability to organize and get everyone together will enhance your popularity and bring interest from potential mates. Go directly to the source if you want to know exactly what's been going on. Your ability to relate will close the generation gap.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Travel will be to your advantage; however, it might be expensive. You may attract attention if you get out socially. Look into ways to better yourself through improving your dietary habits and daily routines.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Find out more, if you want to start your own business. Get busy on projects that improve your own image; you'll have the discipline to succeed. Don't hesitate to talk to your partner about rekindling your relationship.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Consider starting a small business on the side. Look for a marketable gimmick. If you can get away for a vacation, do so. One of your female friends may try to disrupt your day. Stand up for your rights.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Try to curb your bad habits, and compromise if your partner gives you an ultimatum. Friends from your past may come back into your life. You can be sure that any dealing with large institutions should go well.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You are best not to retaliate if members of your household are trying to pick a fight. Favors will be offered readily. You mustn't take on other people's responsibilities or you may find yourself irritable and exhausted.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Do not get into uncertain financial deals. Try to mix business with pleasure while traveling. You can make money if you work on personal investments.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Take care of matters involving institutions or government agencies. Don't forget to read the fine print. Don't prejudge.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Tell it like it is. You will want to complain about the injustice that is going on, You will find your personal partner taxing today.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You will meet new and exciting people if you attend social activities or sporting events. A change in position could be better than you thought.

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England’s trophy credentials face the acid test ESPNcricinfo England’s international season got underway almost three weeks ago, with two low-key victories over Ireland (though the fixtures were significant in themselves); but it is the arrival of South Africa for a three-match series to serve as an amuse bouche for the Champions Trophy that will raise the intensity. English eyes are beginning to focus on their desired white-ball prize from today. In the absence of any May Test matches, and with a cohort of English players making their IPL debuts, attention has been somewhat dissipated. The return of Ben Stokes - freshly garlanded as the IPL’s MVP - Chris Woakes and Jos Buttler ought to rev things up ahead of England’s attempt to finally win a global 50-over trophy. South Africa, too, bring a truckload of stardust as the ICC’s current No. 1 ODI team. Eoin Morgan’s side are down at No. 5 but that hasn’t prevented them being grouped among the tournament favourites home advantage and their new-found batting élan providing reasonable justification for such optimism. They have won

six ODIs in a row, mostly without fielding what might be considered their best XI, and the addition of three players flushed with IPL success won’t do morale any harm at all. Bench strength has been a feature of England’s success over the last couple of years but Morgan will now want to bring everything together for the Champions Trophy tilt. There is a reason that South Africa are rated the best side in the world, of course. They recently equalled their national record by winning 12 consecutive ODIs and AB de Villiers will have good memories of his team coming from 2-0 down to beat England 3-2 at the start of 2016. They have won six bilateral series in a row, including 5-0 whitewashes of Australia and Sri Lanka, and are keen on exorcising their own demons in global white-ball competition. To say they will prove a stiffer challenge than Ireland and West Indies - England’s last two opponents - is an understatement. De Villiers sat out South Africa’s two warm-up victories but is fit to play. Despite a disappointing and injury-disrupted IPL, he remains the No. 1 ODI

Trevor Bayliss and Eoin Morgan oversee England practice at Headingley © Getty Images batsman, while in Imran Tahir, South Africa have the top-ranked bowler, too. The additional presence of Hashim Amla, Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis and Kagiso Rabada gives a formidable heft to their likely starting XI. So there is plenty of scope for this Champions Trophy starter to become a mini-banquet. Runs, certainly, should flow. Of the teams to post 350-plus scores since the last World Cup, none have done it more times than England (eight) and South Africa (six). England’s fearless cricket in that time has brought them much acclaim - but they could still do with a really big scalp, having lost close series against India, South Africa and Australia. Whatever happens in Leeds, Southampton and south London over the next

few days, the silverware both teams are most interested in will be contested at The Oval on June 18. England have finally started giving whiteball cricket its dues and the summer is about to get serious. In the spotlight In most circumstances, it is best not to take your eye off Ben Stokes, but his triumphant return from a maiden IPL replete with runs, wickets and catches, means he is unarguably the main draw in an England side brimming with brio and eager to please their public. Breaking India is cricket’s holy grail and, having been broken by Carlos Brathwaite in Kolkata a year ago, Stokes has spent the last six weeks proving that a $2.16m price tag was not too heavy for him. In his absence, Rising (Continued on page 31)

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Brazil police arrest presidential aide in World Cup probe BRASILIA (Reuters) Brazilian police yesterday arrested a presidential aide and two ex-governors as part of an investigation into the 2014 World Cup’s most expensive stadium, another black eye for the country’s political establishment that adds pressure on beleaguered President Michel Temer. Tadeu Filippelli, a special adviser in Temer’s Cabinet, and former Federal District governors José Roberto Arruda and Agnelo Queiroz were taken into custody early in the day, a police communique said. Temer’s office said in a statement that it would fire Filippelli. Reuters could not immediately reach Filippelli, Arruda and Queiroz or their representatives. The Federal District encompasses the capital Brasilia. Renovation of the Brasilia stadium for the 2014 World Cup cost about 1.5 billion reais ($459.38 million), prosecutors and police said in a statement, and an auditing court has said the construction included rampant overbilling. It was the second-most expensive soccer arena in the world after the reconstruction of Wembley Stadium in London, according to the local World Cup committee’s documents on spending. Temer has resisted growing calls for his

resignation after the disclosure of a recorded conversation in which he appears to condone the payment of hush money to a jailed lawmaker in a separate corruption probe. That investigation is related to a sprawling probe into bribery and kickbacks at state oil company Petrobras that helped topple former President Dilma Rousseff last year and has sent dozens of senior politicians and business to jail. Suspicions that many of the 12 stadiums built or renovated for the 2014 World Cup were overpriced led to street protests before and during the tournament. Executives of construction group O d e b r e c h t S A [ODBES.UL] in a plea bargain deal made public last month offered evidence that builders and politicians sought to fix contracts for World Cup arenas in at least six cities. The evidence provided by Odebrecht corroborated the testimony of three executives of rival construction conglomerate Andrade Gutierrez, prosecutors said in a statement. Brasilia does not have any soccer team in the first division of the national league so the 72,800-seat stadium is almost never filled even when games are played there.

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

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Referees Development Officers appointed

President Wayne Forde and other participants of the Referees Development Officers Training Session. Ten persons have been appointed Referees D e v e l o p m e n t O ff i c e r s (RDOs) following a training session last Saturday, 2017 at the Boardroom, Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Secretariat. The RDOs will be based in the nine Regional Member Associations (RMAs) and will be primarily responsible for recruiting, training and retaining referees across the country. They include Heatcliff Peters (East Berbice); Ingram Johnson (West Berbice); Abdulla

Hamid (Linden); Tyrone Tyrell (Georgetown); Joel Weeks (West Demerara); Vijai Simon (Lethem); Clifton Paul (Essequibo); Leon Stewart (Bartica); Winston Manjit (East Bank) and Natasha Lewis (East Coast). Among the key areas covered in the session were report writing, the updated FIFA Laws of the Game, the relationship between the role of the Technical Development Officer (TDOs) and RDOs; r e s p e c t i v e Te r m s o f

Reference and the importance of fitness to the referees. Stanley Lancaster, Head of the Refereeing Department and Chief Facilitator underscored the importance of the programme to the increased pool of referees and continuous capacity building of same. “The appointed RDOs will play a critical role in actively identifying new referees – both males and females – in the various geographical areas; help in improving the quality of

officiating and education within the fraternity; establish transparency within the fraternity and enable the promotion of talented officials.” Among the other presenters at the session was President Wayne Forde, Second Vice President Rawlston Adams and Executive Committee Member Dion Inniss, who outlined the importance of the role to the achievement of the broader technical objectives of the Executive Committee and also offered

words of support to the appointed officials. This programme is in keeping with the new structure of the Technical

Development programme and the RDOs will work in tandem with the Technical D e v e l o p m e n t O ff i c e r s (TDOs).

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World class Wrestling headed to Guyana July 1st

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Mix Up, Masters chalk wins

Officials pay courtesy call on Minister Henry A night of world class Wrestling action, live on the local shores, is headed Guyana’s way for July 1st. To make that a reality Nick Cara aka ‘The Gladiator’ is here to promote Thunda in Guyana that will feature 20 Ex-WWE Wrestlers live in action at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on July 1. The event is being promoted by the Maximum Sports Combat and strength television show host Max Massiah and the Gladiator Championship Wrestling out of the USA. The New Boss and Gladiator as well as Massiah paid a courtesy call on Hon. Minister Nicolette Henry yesterday. Massiah said the

idea for the show was birthed as part of the Maximum Sports Combat and Strength television programme’s 3rd Anniversary celebrations. The show was to be staged on May 27 but that date would have only facilitated four matches so it has been shifted July 1 at the Sports Hall to make allowance for nine matches instead. A tag team match is also included on the cards of the no holds barred Tables, Ladders and chairs (TLC) type, that promises to be a full adrenalin rush affair. Among the wrestling Supers stars carded to invade Guyana for the event are Ryback, Tyrus aka Brodie

C l a y, B u f f B a g w e l l , Stardust, Al Snow, Carlito and MVP among others. The females will include Mandy Leon the wife of CM Punk and Hanya. Additionally fans would be offered chances to take home US dollars, a car and possibly a motor bike. Also as part of the Wrestling package, part proceeds will be going to the less fortunate. “We will also be interacting with the fans and hosting motivational talks to some schools,” said the Gladiator who says the event will welcome all fans but is geared towards entertaining the youths. (Mondale Smith)

Banks DIH/ABSAA/GFF ‘Clash of Veterans’ Competition

Super 10 Veterans Tournament continues today Several former national footballers will be in action when the Banks DIH/ Alex Bunbury Sports Academic Association (ABSAA)/ Guyana Football Federation (GFF) ‘Clash of Ve t e r a n s ’ Competition continues today, at the Tucville Community ground. Dubbed ‘the Super 10 Clash’ the inaugural tournament features teams from Georgetown, East Coast Demerara and West Bank Demerara. Among the former stars who’re on show in the round robin / knockout format are the Barnwell brothers Dion and Chris, Anthony Stanton, Gordon Braithwaite, Mortimer Stewart, Floyd

Cadogan, Rawle Jones, Terrence Lewis, Nigel Massiah and others. The ten teams that are competing include Pele FC, Beacon FC, Santos FC, Wales FC, Western Tigers FC, Rastas FC, Thomas United FC, Plaisance FC, Park Rangers FC and Newtown Masters. The fixtures for today are seen below: Game 1: Beacon FC vs

Western Tigers FC @ 17:00hrs Game 2: Santos FC vs Plaisance FC @ 18:00hrs Game 3: Pele FC vs Thomas United FC @ 19:00hrs, Game 4: Wales FC vs Park Rangers @ 20:00 hrs Game 5: N e w t o w n Masters vs Rastas FC @ 21:00 hrs Trophies and cash prizes are at stake. Meanwhile, the Organisers are asking persons or entities desirous of sponsoring to contact: Simone Bazil-Lyte @688 1927; Junior Forrester @669 1547; Eric Collymore @601 0789 or Mia RitchieCamacho @667 6183. Admission to the matches is free and drinks and food will be on sale.

Members of the victorious Masters team. Mix Up and Masters were crowned male and female champions respectively when the Seeram’s bar dominoes tournament concluded on Sunday night in Alexander Village. Mix Up marked 89 games to beat Providence on 84 and Gansters 76. Chucky Sankar made the maximum 18 games for the winners, while Rawl Peters supported with 16. Shawn Davis and Andrew Mendonca made 15

apiece for the runner up team, while Troy Peters got 17 and Shellon Collymore 14 for Gangster. Led by Alexis George with 17, Masters chalked up 84 games to win the female final ahead of Fantastic 6 with 79 games and Warriors on 69. Warriors leading players were Loraine Reid and Jane Chase with 15 apiece. Meanwhile, Mark Wiltshire in collaboration with Guinness will be hosting a 3-a-side free-entry football and dominoes

competition on Friday at Victoria Community Centre ground. The winning football team will pocket $50,000. Domino teams will be asked to pay an entrance fee of $12,000 and the champions will take home $150,000. Other prizes will be announced later. All GNDA rules will be in effect, transportation will depart Dynasty sports bar at 11:30hrs. For more information teams can contact Wiltshire on 6655855.

Barbados stun Sunshine Girls for first victory in three decades KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Barbados stunned World number four Jamaica with a pulsating 43-41 victory here Monday night, stealing a 1-1 draw in the t h r e e - Te s t s e r i e s a n d registering their first win over the Caribbean powerhouses in 33 years. Playing at the National Arena, Jamaica controlled the game throughout and led 32-31 at the start of the final quarter but fell apart in the final quarter, as 12 ranked Barbados out-scored them 12-9 to pull off a sensational result. The opening contest last Friday finished in another 44-44 tie while Jamaica eased to a comfortable 4034 in Sunday’s second game, to take a valuable 1-0 lead in the series. “Lots of little things went wrong. We need to work on our passing, keeping [the] ball, keeping it safe,” head coach Jermaine th

Barbadian Shonica Wharton. Allison-McCracken lamented afterwards. Barbados were powered by goal shoot Shonica Wharton who shot 26 goals from 31 attempts while goal attack Sheniqua Thomas chipped in with 14 from 17 attempts. For Jamaica, the experienced goal shoot

Thristina Harwood led with 19 from 22 attempts with Shimona Nelson supporting with 13 from 14 and goal attack Rebekah Robinson, nine from 12. Seeking a victory to clinch the series, Jamaica took charge early to lead 118 at the end of the first (Continued on page 31)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday May 24, 2017

Christianburg Wismar Secondary beat New Silvercity to grab fourth title Championship honours were returned to the C h r i a t i a n b u rg Wi s m a r Secondary when they took the top podium position, beating New Silvercity Secondary 3-1 in the final of the Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond Linden Secondary Schools Under18 tournament which concluded Thursday last at the Wisburg Secondary School ground in Linden. After faltering in the semi-finals in last year’s championship and falling at the last hurdle at the Digicel National Schools final, the ‘Multi’ boys took the title for the fourth time with Omar Brewley, their top striker, gaining the Most valuable Player award as he netted twice for the new champions. It was Brewley who began his team’s scoring in the 25th minute as he converted a square ball from teammate to knock in the go ahead goal. But five minutes before the end of the first session the New Silvercity side leveled things through Emmanuel Atkins as the first half finished 1-1. But midfield player Andre Major was able to put his team into

Goal scorers from ‘Multi’ (at left) Omar Brewley and Andre Mayers. the lead when he netted in the 65th minute and Brewley put the game beyond their opponents as he scored in the 67th minute which hit the wind out of the sails of their New Silvercity opponents. The eventual score was 3-1 for the new champions. Brewley was later named the Most Valuable Player as he also collected the Best Striker award, while his teammates also carted off most to the prizes on offer. Midfield player Andre Major was named Best Midfield, defender Kevin Dornick best defender, goalkeeper Nicholas Gentle

the Best goalkeeper and coach Dellon Peters also of Christrianburg Wismar Secondary ‘Multi’ the Best Coach of the final. However, New Silvercity Secondary were named the Fair Play award winner. New Silvercity’s coach Dwalon Farrel copped the Best Coach of the tournament and walked away with the inaugural James Craig Memorial Award which is in honour of Craig who was the to Organising Secretary for the Linden Chapter of the Screw Richmond Foundation but passed away last year.

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Tough England series will be learning curve, warns Browne BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Chief selector Courtney Browne has warned that West Indies should brace for a difficult tour of England this summer but says the young regional side should use the experience as a learning curve in building for the future. West Indies face the hosts in a three-Test tour starting in August but have not won a series in England in 29 years and have lost all but one of the seven overall within the last 17 years. With limited overs series against minnows Afghanistan next month and India in July, Browne said it was hoped these outings could provide some momentum for the Windies ahead of the England trip. “I think Afghanistan for us, we’re looking for our guys to do very well against Afghanistan,” said the f o r m e r We s t I n d i e s wicketkeeper, who took over his current role from the legendary Clive Lloyd last June. “Against India … we would like our side to be showing we can compete

with the top-ranked teams. That’s very, very important for us. On that, going into England, it will give the guys much more confidence.” He continued: “But the England tour is going to be a tough tour. There are many, many cricketers who went to England for the first time, a lot of good cricketers who went to England for the first time and didn’t do well. “But the one thing we are seeing from this bunch is that they are hungry, they work very hard and we can see the fight in them so we are wishing them all the best. With the work that the coaching staff is doing, we think we have a core group here we can work with.” Once the kings of world cricket, West Indies are currently ranked number eight in the ICC Test rankings, following a string of poor results in recent years. They have lost their last six series and won just two of their last 17 Tests, with their most recent defeat coming in a 2-1 loss in a three-Test series to Pakistan earlier this month. West Indies entered the

final Test in Dominica with the series level 1-1 and carried the contest down to the final day before losing by 101 runs with a single over left at Windsor Park. Despite the loss, Browne pointed to the gutsy performance as proof the mentality in the Windies setup was changing for the better. “One thing about it (defeat): it has shown the fans that here’s a bunch of young people who are actually showing some fight,” said Browne, who played 20 Tests and 46 onedayers for West Indies. “I think what it would have done for the players is show them that with that determination, with that passion that they can actually be competitive and I think it is important. “You look at the loss – and nobody wants to lose – it showed the fight and if you look at the last number of batters who you would call tail-enders, they really dug in and they worked really hard out there with young Roston Chase, so I think they are a lot of positives to come from that.”

GFF honours Walter Moore

Walter Moore holds the plaque of recognition from the GFF in the presence of President Wayne Forde and the national U-17 squad. The Guyana Football F ederation (G F F ) has honoured Golden Jaguars’ defender Walter Moore, who recently wrapped up a Talent Identification initiative to Guyana from last Friday to Sunday. This was done via a presentation of a plaque by

President Wayne Forde while on a visit to the national U-17 camp in New Amsterdam, Berbice S a t u r d a y. Forde in presenting the plaque said: “It is indeed an honour and privilege for me to be able to give you this plaque today. You have done a tremendous

service to Guyana’s football over the years, I’m personally proud of you; I’m sure we all are.” The plaque, which had the inscription, “In recognition of your remarkable career and long service to Guyana’s football, we say thank you for being a

shining example and inspiration on and off the field of play” was received by Moore with much surprise and to the applause of the U-17 squad. Moore and his club coach Kristian Heames c o n d u c t e d a Ta l e n t Identification programme in

Guyana where they participated in the National U-17 camp along with Gregory Richardson, another national player. The Talent ID initiative sought to identify potential players for trials and possible professional contracts in Europe.

This initiative is part of the new philosophy of the technical programme of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), which actively seeks to involve past and present national players as part of the t e c h n i c al development programme.

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

RHTY&SC We Care Project

Cricket teams and Food for the Poor (Guy) assist youth with Wheel Chair The eight cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, M.S with the assistance of Food for the Poor (Guy) presented a wheelchair to 15 years old Surania Balkaran of Lot 47, Hampshire Village. The presentation was done on Friday last at the RHTY&SC Office located at the Area ‘H’ Ground and was done under the Club’s We Care Project. Club Secretary Hilbert Foster stated that he received a phone call from the Ministry of Social P r o t e c t i o n ’s C h i l d r e n Protection Officer last Thursday requesting the assistance and he readily agreed to the request from Officer Christine Persaud. The RHTY&SC, M.S, he stated, on a daily basis assists dozens of Berbicians u n d e r i t s ‘ We C a r e Programme’ which is administered by the eight cricket teams and the Club’s Social Development

Asst Secretary Simon Naidu, RHTY&SC Cricketers Chanderpaul Govindan and Christopher Deroop hand over the wheelchair to Salina and Christine Budhoo. Committee. Under the ‘We Care Programme’ residents are assisted with clothing, food hampers, fire disaster

assistance, pampers for children and adults, wheel chairs for disabled persons and assistance for those

unable to pay medical expenses. Most of these programmes, he stated, are done with the assistance with

Food for the Poor (Guy). T h e Ve t e r a n C l u b Secretary/CEO hailed Food for the Poor as a Champion of the Poor and downtrodden. The RHTY&SC, M.S and Food for the Poor over the years have teamed up to assist thousands of Berbicians and over the last decade have donated over $15M worth of sport gears to Clubs across Berbice. These includes football, volleyball, basketball, cricket and table tennis equipment and only last month assisted cricket clubs and players with $2M worth of bats, stumps, balls, batting pads and wicketkeeping gloves. Special mention of FOP Chairman Paul Chan-a-Sue, CEO Kent Vincent, Senior Manager Jimeel Davis and Staffer Lizanna Gordon for their cooperation to the RHTY&SC and the eight cricket teams were made. The RHTY&SC is the only cricket Club in Guyana

that mandates its cricketers to make a positive difference in the lives of youths, the elderly and less fortunate. Child Protection Officer Christine Persaud expressed gratitude to the RHTY&SC for the assistance to Ms. Balkaran who is physically incapable of moving around without assistance. Grandmother Salina Budhoo, who received the Wheel Chair from Asst Secretary Simon Naidu, praised the RHTY&SC for coming to the assistance of her granddaughter and making life easier for her. The eight teams – Rose Hall Town Farfan and Mendes Under-15, Bakewell U n d e r- 1 7 a n d S e c o n d Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Females and Gizmos and Gadgets Under-21 and First Division have a mandate from the RHTY&SC Management to complete 500 activities for 2017.

BFA/J’s Golden Arrow U-20 Tourney

Cougars edge Hopetown United Rangers; Paradise and NA United draw Cougars FC recorded the first win of the Berbice Football Association (BFA) organised J’s Golden Arrow Under-20 competition which kicked off on Saturday last at the All Saints (Scotts School) Ground in New Amsterdam, under floodlights. The opening day’s action was witnessed by Guyana Football Federation President Wayne Forde along with BFA President Keith Ojeer and other executive members as well as GFF TD Ian Greenwood and the National Under-17 team among others. Opening play between New Amsterdam United and Paradise Invaders ended in victory for the latter team via sudden kicks from the penalty mark after the teams had battled to a pulsating 3-3 draw at the end of the allotted 80 minutes. The scores remained tied even after the first five kicks each from the penalty mark but it was Paradise which held their nerves to walk away with an extra point since the rules of the competition states that one

point would be awarded for a draw. However, since there must be a winner, kicks from the penalty mark would be employed and the winner will earn an extra point. The goal scorers during regulation time for Paradise were Nfini Babb (5th), Nial Reynolds (18th) and Shaqueel De Harte (45th). NA United got their goals f r o m K e v o n Wi l l i a m s (16th), Jamal Butts (35th & 65th). Netting the lone and winning goal in the feature match for Cougars was Jaleel Fraser in the 8th minute. Despite having the edge in the area of ball possession, Hopetown failed to make good on the chances created with the goalkeepers at either end of the pitch turning in sterling performances especially Cougars’ Trivett Edwards. Six teams are battling in two groups of three each using the round-robin format after which the top two would move on to the semifinals. Another doubleheader is fixed for this Saturday at the same venue

Jason Sripaul (left) presents the first place trophy to BFA Secretary Joseph Simon in the presence of staff members of J’s Supermarket GFF, TD Ian Greenwood and Keith Ojeer. from 19:00hrs. Young Strikers, Orealla Falcons, Hopetown United Rangers and Paradise Invaders will face off. Meanwhile the tournament was launched on Friday at J’s supermarket under the “Golden Arrow” Milk Brand. Present at the ceremony w e r e G F F Te c h n i c a l Director, Mr Ian Greenwood, Jackie-Chan Richardson, Walter Moore,

Coach/Scout Kristin Aimes of Finland and Joseph Simon of BFA. Greenwood lauded the BFA and sponsor and was appreciative of the fact that it targeted the U20 age

group which is mostly overlooked, while Keith Ojeer, BFA’s President, expressed gratitude to the sponsors and informed that the BFA will endeavor to cement such a

partnership. Jason Sripaul of J’s Supermarket said they are pleased to partner with the BFA and it’s their way of giving back to the community.

Wednesday May 24, 2017

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Curry leads Warriors to third straight series sweep

Golden State Warriors point guard Patrick McCaw (0) blocks a shot attempt by San Antonio Spurs shooting guard Jonathon Simmons (17) during the second half in game four of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. (Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports) (The Sports Xchange) Stephen Curry scored 36 points and Kevin Durant added 29 points and 12 rebounds as the Golden State Warriors strolled to a 129115 win over San Antonio Spurs on Monday to complete a four-game sweep of the Western Conference finals. Golden State moves on to play either the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers, in a repeat of last year’s title series, or the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. The Cavaliers currently lead the Eastern Conference finals 2-1. Golden State will have nine days of rest ahead of that series, which begins in Oakland, California on June 1. The Warriors have swept all three of their playoff series and are the first team in NBA history to start the post-season 12-0, eclipsing the record established by the 1989 and 2001 Los Angeles Lakers. “It’s a great run, and we had an opportunity to get it done tonight, but more i m p o r t a n t l y, i t w a s obviously just a closeout kind of mentality and trying to take care of our business and play a good 48-minute game,” Curry said. “For the most part, we did. We had some slip-ups and some mental errors, but for the most part it was a solid night. Contributions from everybody. “Going 12-0 is great, but it doesn’t mean anything going into the next series, and we have to understand that.” Golden State has won 27 of its past 28 overall games (including the regular season) and has won six straight road playoff games, a franchise record. Draymond Green added 16 points, eight rebounds and eight assists for Golden State in the easy win at the

AT&T Center. Ian Clark tallied 12 points and Klay Thompson scored 10 points (on 3-of-13 shooting) for the Warriors. G I N O B I L I FAREWELL? Golden State out-shot the Spurs 55.8 percent to 42.3 percent, had 53 rebounds to San Antonio’s 41 and dominated despite 17 turnovers that led to 22 San Antonio points. Kyle Anderson led the Spurs with 20 points while Manu Ginobili added 15 in what may have been the last game of a brilliant NBA career. Patty Mills and Pau Gasol added 14 each and Jonathon Simmons scored 13. LaMarcus Aldridge, arguably San Antonio’s most important player after injured star forward Kawhi Leonard, scored just eight points and did not play in the fourth quarter. Despite the fact that the Warriors have cruised to their spot in the Finals, they are adamant that they can play better. “There are things on both sides of the ball that we can clean up, and that’s what’s, I guess, got our guys’ attention or focus,” Warriors acting head coach Mike Brown said. “We’ve been preaching certain things, and for the most part, they’ve been doing it, but to get to our ultimate goal of winning the whole thing, we’ve got to be better on both ends of the floor.” Ginobili left the game in the final minutes to chants of “Manu, Manu” and “one more year.” He has said he will take three or four weeks off before deciding whether he wants to return to the league next season, when he will be 40 years old. “The opponent was, in this case, way better than us,” Ginobili said of the (Continued on page 31)

Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (30) is fouled while shooting by San Antonio Spurs center Pau Gasol (16) during the second half in game four of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. (Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports)

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Wednesday May 24, 2017

Xtreme Clean & Maintenance Co. ‘Gold Rush’ Futsal Tournament

GFF gives blessings to tournament Organisers of the inaugural Xtreme Clean & Maintenance Company ‘Gold Rush’ Futsal Tournament scheduled to kick-off of Friday, at the National Gymnasium received the blessings of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) yesterday. President of the GFF Wayne Forde and Director of Competition Ian Alves met with representatives of the Organising Committee at the entity’s Head Office to have a full understanding of the tournament, while also advising on the way forward for a smooth running of the event. Six matches in the main draw and a qualifier are scheduled to be played with the country’s top indoor team Sparta Boss among the notable names set to appear on opening night. The tournament has prize monies and trophies totaling

in excess of $1million and will be played over eight days on a ‘win or go home’ (knockout) format on the first two days, before the survivors enter a round robin phase with the top two automatically advancing in addition to the best two third placed teams to the quarterfinals. The winners are set to receive $500,000 and trophy, while second, third and fourth placed teams will take home $200,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively. The other playing dates are May 28, June 6, 8, 13, 15 and 17. Meanwhile, every night two lucky fans will have the opportunity to kick to win one pennyweight of gold each or its equivalent, while several other novelty events will allow patrons to win prizes. The teams invited are: Sparta Boss, Bent Street, Sophia, West Front Road

This is the kind of rivalry that fans will witness with the Xtreme Clean & Maintenance Co. ‘Gold Rush’ Futsal Tournament kicks off on Friday.

‘Gold is Money’, Broad Street Bullies, Tiger Bay, North East La Penitence, West Back Road, Back Circle, Campbellville , Dave & Celena Allstars (Linden), Melanie ‘B’ (East Coast),

S h o w S t o p p e r s ( We s t Demerara), Agricola Champion Boys, Kitty, Tucville, North Ruimveldt, Festival City, Albouystown ‘B’, A l e x a n d e r Vi l l a g e ,

GABF President meets Berbice affiliate executives

Mr. Vibert Garrett (left) the president of the BABA, during his meeting with Mr. Nigel Hinds (right) with Jasola Mc Donald Secretary Treasurer display the equipment presented by Hinds. After his return from mid-term congress in Hong Kong, the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) president, Nigel Hinds, followed on the heels of a visit from FIBA executive director assistant Mr. Victor Mansure to Berbice, with a visit of his

own. Mr. Hinds visited Berbice on Saturday last and met with the executive committee of the Berbice Amateur Basketball Association (BABA) and informed on the development plan for Berbice. Hinds and the officials

visited the Vryman’s Erven Basketball court to assess interest in providing the court with lights and cover. Mr. Vibert Garrett, the Berbice Amateur Basketball Association president indicated that preparation is underway to improve female Basketball in schools.

Several balls that were presented to the association would be handed over to schools to aid that effort. A generator was also presented by Hinds and will be used to power the score clocks and the lights that will be used for the basketball court.

Plaisance ‘A’, Globe Yard, Future Stars and BV ‘A’. Meanwhile, the fixtures for the first two days of competition are seen below. Friday-May 26th Agricola vs BV-A-

19:00rs Festival City vs Albouystown-19:30hrs Sophia vs Dave and Celena All-Stars-20:00hrs Showstoppers vs Tiger Bay-20:30hrs Broad Street vs Kitty21:00hrs Sparta Boss vs West Back Road-21:30hrs Saturday-Saturday May 27th Tucville vs Melanie19:00hrs Plaisance vs Alexander Village-19:30hrs Bent Street vs Campbellville-20:00hrs North East La Penitence vs Future Stars-20:30hrs West Front Road ‘Gold is Money’ vs North Ruimveldt21:00hrs Back Circle vs Globe Yard-21:30hrs The reserve teams are Buxton Diamond and Camp Street All Stars. Meanwhile, Banks DIH has agreed to be on board.

Exclusive: Twice champion Kvitova set for Wimbledon after stabbing LONDON (Reuters) Twice champion Petra Kvitova is set to play at Wimbledon this summer, less than seven months after she was stabbed by an intruder in her home, a member of her support team told Reuters yesterday. The Czech, who required four hours of surgery to her left, playing, hand after the December attack at home in her home city of Prostejov, has made a faster than expected recovery and could even be ready to play in the French Open, which begins in Paris on Sunday. “She is on track for Wimbledon,” Katie S p e l l m a n , K v i t o v a ’s publicity manager, told Reuters. “She will make a last minute decision this week about Roland Garros.” Kvitova, who won Wimbledon in 2011 and 2014, will be included on the official entry list for this year ’s Championships, which will be released today. “The AELTC is always pleased to welcome former champions back to Wimbledon, and would be delighted if Petra Kvitova is

able to compete in The Championships this year,” Wi m b l e d o n s a i d i n a statement to Reuters. “We wish her well with her ongoing preparations to return to competition.” AT TA C K E D AT HOME Kvitova was attacked at around 8.30am on December 20 by a man who gained access to her apartment block by posing as a utilities man, before holding a knife to her throat. In pulling the knife away, Kvitova sustained injuries to tendons in all four fingers and the thumb on her left hand. She said she was “shaken, but fortunate to be alive”. Doctors had said at the time the “best-case scenario” was that Kvitova could be playing tennis again within six months. Throughout her recovery, the 27-year-old has amazed everyone in her team with her positivity and belief that she would be back on Tour, and sooner rather than later. Last month, Kvitova said (Continued on page 31)

Wednesday May 24, 2017

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AAG banking on local companies for South American Junior C/ships equipment The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) has turned to local companies to provide some of the requirements for the South American Junior Championships, most of which should be in the Leonora facility by weekend. This is according to the association, which held a press briefing yesterday morning at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) Headquarters to update on the progress of plans to host the event that will be held here next weekend. “They say necessity is the mother of all invention and what we have found is that a number of companies here can do the pits and the hammer (throw) cage, so that is a good thing and we anticipate that everything should be in by this weekend, giving us an entire week ahead of the Championships,” AAG President, Aubrey Hutson said. According to Hutson, the team morale is high ahead of

President of the AAG, Aubrey Hutson (centre) among other AAG Officials update the media yesterday on plans to host the South American Junior Championships.

the event. “I think the athletes understand the importance of having the meet here, and what it means for Guyana and they will give of their best,” Hutson continued. Manager of the Guyanese team, Cornell Rose indicated that he

believes the team will do well at the South American Championships despite the lack of competition ahead of the event. “I think we can have 99% success because we have a slew of coaches working with the team and I think the training that the athletes

have been doing will suffice ahead of the competition because they have being going hard and the constant training with each other will give them that competitive edge,” Rose observed.

Meanwhile, Indranauth Haralsingh of the Ministry of Tourism shared that the Ministry will aim to boost marketing ahead of the event. Some 50 athletes have been selected to represent

Guyana at the South American meet. Guyana will not participate in the decathlon, heptathlon, the pole vault, hammer throw and a few of the hurdle events.

Annual Gregory Gaskin Mem. B/bice Sports Award, Ansa Mcal Award of Excellence

D’Andrade wins RHTY&SC invites nominations Couva 5km Road Race

Lionel D’Andrade taking control of the Couva 5km Road Race in Trinidad. Trinidad and Tobagobased Guyanese distance runner, Lionel D’Andrade won the Couva Chamber of Commerce annual 5km road race on Saturday last in 16:50, while Trinidadians Errol Wi l l i a m s ( 1 7 : 1 0 ) a n d Avinash Anamalay (17:12) finished second and third

respectively. “I am still not 100% fit as yet. I am still easing myself into competition, since my injury. So I am going lightly. I am preparing myself for the Annual Butler 20K Classic in June month, I’ve been picking up some momentum,” D’Andrade said.

The Couva Chamber of Commerce 5k race had 178 participants running for a better lifestyle and keeping healthy. M e a n w h i l e , D’Andrade returned on Sunday last to finish second at the RAZ 5k race, a day after his winning performance in Couva.

The Award Committee of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, M.S is inviting the Berbice Public to submit nominations for two of its major awards which would be handed out on Friday 28th of July. The two awards are the Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Award and the Ansa Mcal Award of Excellence which the Club has hosted since 2003. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster disclosed that Berbicians have until the 30th of June to submit nominations to the Club Office located in the Area ‘H’ Ground, Rose Hall Town o r b y e m a i l t o foster_hilbert@yahoo.com . The Gregory Gaskin Memorial Sports award’s main objectives are to recognise and honour outstanding sportsmen and women for their performance and to honour outstanding sports personalities who worked beyond the call of duty to promote sports. The awards to be shared out are Berbice sportsman of the Year 2016, Berbice Sports Woman of the Year 2016, Berbice Sports Organisation of the

Year 2016 and Lifetime Achievement Award. All nominations must be accompanied by reasons why the person/group was nominated and they must not have been involved in drug abuse scheme, no fraud or criminal matter. The nominated persons should also not be involved in any disciplinary problem with his/her sports organisation. The Lifetime Award would be given to an individual who over a long period (over 20 years) has contributed to sports in an unselfish way and has made a massive contribution to making a positive difference in the lives of youths via sports. Five Awards would be up for grabs under the prestigious Ansa Mcal Award of Excellence. Outstanding Berbicians would be honoured for their contribution to Berbice and Guyana in the field of Sports, Health, Education, Security and Community Development.

To be nominated the person would have to serve in their position for over 20 years, have no criminal past, be a positive role model to their peers and has contributed in a positive way towards Guyana’s development. Each of the Awardees would receive a trophy, a framed certificate, medal and a large collection of gifts. All nominations would be vetted by a Committee of five judges headed by Veteran Television News Editor Gregory Rambarran. All decisions of the Committee are final and members of the RHTY&SC, M.S are not allowed to submit nominations. The Club during the Ceremony on Friday 28th of July would also be hosting the closing ceremony on its 27th annual Cricket Academy, sharing out of $1M worth of school bags and honouring outstanding students of the Annual Educational Summer Camp for Grade 6 Students.

t r o Sp World class Wrestling headed to Guyana July 1st

Tough England series will be learning Officials pay courtesy call on Minister Henry curve, warns Browne

Minister Nicolette Henry (centre) with Max Massiah (left) and Nick ‘the Gladiator’ Cara during a visit to the Minister.

Chief selector Courtney Browne … has warned that the upcoming England tour will be a difficult one.

Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond U-18 schools football final

Christianburg Wismar Secondary beat New Silvercity to grab fourth title

Darty Francis at left handing over the winners’ trophy to Dellon Peters in the presence of his teammates and others. 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