Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Thursday November 02, 2017

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

EDITORIAL

CELEBRATING CARIBBEAN TOURISM MONTH November is considered “Caribbean Tourism Month, but the impact of hurricanes Irma and Maria has left several Islands in the Caribbean in dire straits and in need of urgent foreign assistance. The hurricanes have severely impacted tourism in the Caribbean. During the first half of this year, the region performed at new record pace, with16.6 million international tourist arrivals at a healthy growth rate of 5.2 percent, compared to the same period last year. However, following the devastation by hurricanes Irma and Maria, tourism has decreased significantly. The Caribbean Development Bank predicts that one per cent reduction in tourist arrivals will cost US$137 million in lost revenue. Hit harder than expected by hurricanes Irma and Maria, the battered islands in the Caribbean face years of difficult recovery and will need international aid to get back on their feet. The force of the hurricanes was unimaginable and their destruction gruesome. With winds of 185 miles per hour (MPH) and gusts over 200 (MPH), both Irma and Maria are considered the two most powerful storms of their kind in the Atlantic Ocean in recorded history. And climate experts say it is a sign of more to come if the nations fail to address climate change. Irma trails hurricane Allen in 1980, which had winds of 190 mph and is tied with Wilma in 2005 and Gilbert in 1988 as second most intense hurricane. Even the most well-engineered and sturdiest buildings in the region were no match for hurricanes Irma and Maria. Anything over 155 miles per hour would have damaged any structure. The Saffir–Simpson scale has classified both as category 5 hurricanes which is the highest with over 157 MPH. But the magnitude of hurricanes Irma and Maria has called for the designation of a new “Category 6” hurricane. Hurricanes Irma and Maria have left their mark in the saddest ways possible on the battered Caribbean islands which have suffered widespread destruction of houses, buildings and deaths. The disaster, hardship and pain faced by the peoples of the Caribbean have revealed the mind-boggling effects of hurricanes on their lives. Irma and Maria have reminded us of the devastation of hurricanes Gilbert, Hugo and Ivan on Jamaica, Montserrat and Grenada respectively. Many are of the opinion that the region has had more than its share of the destructive hurricanes in September, which historically is the most active hurricane season. September has infamously recorded some of the most deadly hurricanes on the region with untold damage to property. Irma is the most powerful hurricane to hit Caribbean since 1851, with major damage to agriculture, tourism and housing, the three worst-hit sectors with foreseeable consequences for production, exports, market supplies and those who earn a living from those sectors. Hotels on the paradise islands which bore the brunt of the hurricanes would not be ready in time for the start of the high tourist season in mid-December. For now, it is important to restore food, water and electricity in order to prevent further disaster. The Caribbean’s long history of dealing with hurricanes and its ability to organise itself did not spare it from such destruction. It was hit harder than initially expected, which means that the prevention building mechanisms were no match for the magnitude of the hurricanes. But even though the damage to buildings and houses was significant, the mechanisms to protect lives did work because there were only a few deaths. Now with a reduction in tourism, significant investment will be required to rebuild the islands’ economy and improve its growth.

Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email

Social cohesion was again tossed on the dust heap of political expediency DEAR EDITOR, It’s a known fact that I supported the ANPU/AFC coalition. And I was happy to do so! I, like most Guyanese wanted the change we got. It is also well known that I am now supporting the efforts of the United Republican Party (URP). The change was very deliberate and decisive. I disassociated myself from the Coalition for the same reason I refused to associate with the PPP: there seems to be an ideological unwillingness of the party leaders to work at bringing the country together. I honestly believed that the presidential candidate, David Granger, had that desire. What solidified my optimism was the fact that he of-

ten spoke of the need for Guyana to come together. He also used to speak of not governing from the position of a winner-take-all position. He campaigned on a ‘big-tent’ platform. However, these days, things have certainly changed. Or maybe he did not change, I just did not hear him correctly. Maybe I just fell in love with a figment of my imagination, because the Granger who is now managing the country is certainly not the same person who spoke so glowing about national unity. Does anyone remember that it was President David Granger who added the new and promising ministry called the Social Cohesion Ministry? Does anyone remember that the first Minister he put to head that Ministry was the

most senior PNC member and the Chief Whip of the parliament? I am noting this because I want you to know that my love and admiration for President Granger was not politically naïve, or some racially conjured sentiment. I supported his ascent to the presidency because I honestly was hopeful that he would do to, and for Guyana, what was disgustingly lacking: I was hoping that he would work at bringing us together. But then after a string of behaviours that betrayed his inability to heal Guyana, the President went and unilaterally appointed an Elections Chairman. I have been following this development and I would be honest enough to admit that

the former President Bharrat Jagdeo could have been more magnanimous in his selection of the names for the Chairman. Mr. Jagdeo pushed the envelope. Let me also say that there is no court that will provide a win to the challenger of the move the President made, because the move is riveted in the provisions of the Constitution. However, I was hoping that the President would have remained the bigger-man. By unilaterally selecting a GECOM chair, Mr. Granger has allowed himself to sink to an untenable political low. He fell into a trap that has now set up this country once again for unaccepted, disputed, election results. Mr. Granger must know that his move will Continued on page 5

Ms. Charles’ statements on the clinic visits of her pets are inconsistent with our records DEAR EDITOR, Please permit the Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) to respond to the letter signed by Debra Charles (Kaieteur News, 26th October, 2017) in which she made several statements that are inconsistent with the GSPCA’s records of the clinic visits of her pets. According to the Society’s records, the GSPCA first transported Ms. Charles and two of her dogs to its Animal Shelter and Clinic on 27th June, 2017. At that time, both dogs had a fever, were not eating, and were experiencing a heavy tick infestation. Several treatments were administered: the dogs were de-wormed; treated for the tick infestation; and given 3 injections (Oxytetracycline antibiotic, multi-vitamins, and Meloxicam for fever). The dogs w e r e s e n t home with Doxycycline tablets, B complex tablets, Meloxicam tablets and Vitamin C tablets. During this visit, the GSPCA advised that the dogs should be brought back on 8th July, 2017 for follow up treatment. Ms. Charles did not bring the dogs back for that recommended follow up. On 14th September, 2017, at Ms. Charles’ request, the GSPCA transported her and her two dogs back to the Animal Clinic and Shelter. During this visit, Ms. Charles notified the GSPCA that the dogs were not eating

well. The GSPCA again dewormed the dogs and treated them for ticks but did not administer any injections during this visit. The medications sent home with the dogs were multi-vitamin tablets and Bcomplex tablets. The GSPCA then advised Ms. Charles to change the dogs’ diet and bring them back in one week for necessary vaccinations. Once again, Ms. Charles did not bring her dogs back for the recommended follow up. In her letter, Ms. Charles expressed two main concerns. The first concern is that her dog had an allergic reaction to an injection. Unfortunately, allergic reactions to injections sometimes occur in animals, regardless of who administers the injection or in which clinic it is administered. The symptoms are usu-

ally easy to recognize and treatment to counteract an allergic reaction would typically be provided soon after these symptoms are observed. The clinic staff would usually remedy such a situation before the client and the animal leave the clinic. It is unfortunate if this dog’s reaction took a longer time to be observed. The GSPCA clinic staff would most certainly have rendered aid if they had been made aware. The second concern expressed by Ms. Charles is that her dogs were treated by an unauthorized veterinarian at the GSPCA. There is a veterinarian visiting Guyana who has volunteered to help the GSPCA in the capacity of an advisor. The GSPCA is always grateful for such qualified volunteer assistance.

However, this volunteer veterinarian did not administer the injections described by Ms. Charles, as the volunteer veterinarian was not in Guyana on 27th June, 2017 when Ms. Charles’ dogs received injections; and as no injections were administered to these dogs during their subsequent visit on 14th September, 2017, it is not possible for the volunteer veterinarian to have administered injections to Ms. Charles’ dogs as claimed. Injections and other procedural treatments are administered by GSPCA clinic staff members who are qualified veterinary technicians. We trust this letter serves to set the record straight and would be pleased to discuss this matter further with Ms. Charles if she so desires. The Executive Committee Members of the GSPCA

Look out for the UG graduates in Mashramani and Phagwah studies DEAR EDITOR, In my frequent trips abroad I usually relieve the boredom of long hours in confined spaces by reading and writing. During my current trip (31/10/17) I have just read the report in the Trinidad Guardian titled: “Sweet Success” which pictorially featured the Graduates of the UWI St Augustine Campus, impressively dressed in the typical Graduation gowns & caps.

My attention was particularly drawn to the graduate (Omari Ashby) as he received from the Vice Chancellor (Prof. Hillary Beckles) a “First Class Honours BA in Carnival Studies”. I spent much time contemplating this rather unusual academic foray as, for me at least, it represented a ground-breaking innovation. I now wonder if we might soon have our own Univer-

sity of Guyana graduating people with Honours Degrees in various cultural celebrations such as, for example: BA in Mashramani or BSc in Phagwah; even if we do, I hope and pray that they will not predate an Honours Degree in Oil studies, so that we can have qualified Guyanese grounded in the petroleum field to oversee our growing interest in this vital sector. Nowrang Persaud

Thursday November 02, 2017

The working class and democratic orientation of the WPA are no longer there DEAR EDITOR, The position taken by the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) on the unilateral appointment by President Granger of a GECOM Chair is at best disappointing, and at worst, a betrayal of the legacy of its founder leader, the late Dr. Walter Rodney. It would have served the WPA much better had it remained silent on the issue rather than sheepishly trying to justify what is clearly a departure from the accepted and democratic method of appointing a GECOM Chair, since the Carter Formula was introduced in the early 1990’s. It is worth recalling that prior to 1992, the Chairman of the Elections Commission was handpicked by the President and was expected to, and did in fact, rule in favour of the ruling party on crucial electoral matters such as overseas, proxy and postal voting, all of which were heavily staked in favour of the PNC. Indeed, the PNC obtained 98% of the overseas and an overwhelming number of the

proxy and postal votes, which was highly improbable, given voting trends in all elections prior to 1964. It is in the above context that a politically independent and non-partisan Chairman of the Elections Commission brokered by President Carter has to be situated. It was intended to be a confidencebuilding measure in the credibility and integrity of the Elections Commission in particular, and the electoral process as a whole. For the WPA to lend its support to a process which is fundamentally flawed is a clear indication that the current leadership of the WPA is prepared to sacrifice the rich legacy of its founder leader Dr. Walter Rodney on the altar of political opportunism. The political DNA of the WPA is undergoing a metamorphosis. Exactly what it will morph into remains to be seen but one thing is certain and that is that the working class and democratic orientation of the party is no longer there. Hydar Ally

Will “Mr/Mrs. Right” please stand up, come forward DEAR EDITOR, I read your newspaper’s recent interesting, analytical letter about the political situation in today’s Guyana. One statement brought back memories of irony. In the 1960’s lead-up to the earnest wish for political leadership change, one ‘Burnhamite’ asked my husband, when he showed no active interest in such change, “Do you want a ‘......’ to continue to rule you”? Guyana voted a different man in. Same difference. This says to me that race will always be Guyana’s ‘political pickle’. Why not choose a ‘dougla’ person? Preferably what, as children, we called a “boy-girl”? Guyanese could not cope

with Dr. Jagan, Mr. Burnham, Mr. Hoyte, Mrs. Jagan, Mr. Jagdeo, now seemingly Mr. Granger, and they got rid of the “white man”. Can they please state their choice NOW? My countrymen seem to be “race-centered”. Will “Mr/Mrs. Right” please stand up, come forward. As a passionate B.G. 87year old woman, I would like to see a political settlement or satisfactory ‘accommodation’ before I leave this world. I think we owe it to generations to come. Whether you know it or not, the whole world is in for seismic change within the next 10 years. And may the Fates be with us. Geralda D

Once there is breath in my body, I shall prosecute this matter DEAR EDITOR, This letter is being written to inform the public of the unfolding events since my presentation to the Lands Commission of Inquiry (CoI) pertaining to lands at Kingelly, a village bought by my great-great-great-great grandfather Cudjoe McPherson, a man who came from slavery. Since my appearance, members of a group, who are being represented by Attorney-at-law Anil Nandlall, have too appeared before the commission, with claims made by some that they have transport for the land they are occupying, dating back to the period of slavery, and even before it was bought. Kingelly was bought in the 1840s and transported in 1850 to Cudjoe, yet persons claim residency for over 200 years, including possession of transport, when slavery ended in 1838, i.e. 179 years ago. Presently in my possession are copies of notice given to the Seafield/Tempe Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) to commence surveys on lands not on behalf of Cudjoe’s heirs, but on behalf of people who Nandlall is representing and claimed to have transport for the land. One needs to ask: why are these persons spending money to survey lands they already said they have transports for? Or is it a case where they are moving to further encroach on land they do not own? Three weeks ago a similar attempt was made and halted by the NDC, since this Local Authority’s rules were not followed. The Sunday following the incident, myself and four relatives journeyed to the village. The opportunity was taken to walk through the village, meet the people and apprise them of the McPhersons

Social cohesion was again tossed... From page 4 forever incubate the calling into question the results of all upcoming election results, except if the Coalition loses. I was expecting that the President would have called Mr. Jagdeo to his office and that the two would have sat, and in the interest of national unity, they would have tossed about names until they could agree on some person, who they collectively accepted, was fit and proper. Some might be quick to

suggest that maybe Mr. Jagdeo would not have agreed to such a transparent method. To which I say this. The President would then have been able to come out and say to the Guyanese public that he offered the opposition leader a workable solution to the impasse and he refused. This would have bought the President much political clout. Imagine what it would

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have done for the healing of the nation and for social cohesion, if the President had sat in a room with the opposition leader and they were determined to not leave until they had a person they both had confidence in. And then standing side by side, they had come out and addressed this broken nation. But alas, social cohesion was again tossed on the dust heap of political expedience. Sad! Pastor W. P. Jeffrey

position, as I did prior to the matter being placed before the commission. Villagers shared engagement with us and some sought to find out what the McPhersons want in terms of settlement, others said they respect that we have to do what we have to do, and others requested if they can be favourably considered to continue living in the village. To the varied views, there was commitment to look at the manner within the context of the law, the commission’s recommendations, and relationship established over the years, upon consultation and agreement with the other heirs of Cudjoe. There was and remains a noted exception to this relationship and issue, in the person of a leading PPP activist who has illegally occupied a part of our land since the 1960s or early 1970s. When he was approached, with my hand outreached to him, he said ‘me nah shake black man hand, ayuh dese nah people.” In response, I said to him “you will have to deal with us, whether you consider us animal or people.” Villagers have advised me the said man, who is also a PPP councillor, during the recent flood when he was approached on the issue of relief, they were told “me nah do nothing for black man, ayuh vote for Granger, ayuh tek ayuh cup and drink da wata wah in dah trench.” They

got no representation from him and had to journey to Yoville to speak with Member of Parliament Jennifer Wade, who intervened on their behalf. To ignore or suppress the telling of these stories is to enable discrimination and further division in this society, because where persons are denied the right to articulate what’s occurring around and to them, even growth and development can never occur. As an aside, this claim I am pursuing started during the generation of Julia Thompson, my grandmother, who was Cudjoe’s great granddaughter, and the daughter of Mathilda McPherson, the granddaughter of Cudjoe. Since the issue of Kingelly has resurfaced it is instructive to note the continued effort to legitimately resolve this matter has attracted the attention, involvement, and anger of the PPP hierarchy in Freedom House. Bharrat Jadgeo not only found it worthy to angrily address the matter at his press conference, but made the claim that I, Lincoln Lewis, am claiming a whole village. Nandlall is an attorney-atlaw, and though entitled to represent any person or group in this matter based on

the position taken by Jagdeo and the PPP person in the village, I am inclined to believe his representation is that of making a political statement. This opportunity is being taken to inform society that even as the commission is yet to make public its findings, including recommendations, Cudjoe’s heirs are seeing a repetition of the 1960s. For those of us, who were moved to let the matter take a course of finding legitimate solution through the court in the 1960s, being mindful of the racial clashes not only around this land but in the political arena, where we have lost family members, and original owners of villages, such as No. 12, fled to save their lives, what is happening under the influence of the PPP’s leadership is clearly seeking to provoke a confrontation. I close by saying that once there is breath in my body I shall prosecute this matter in my lifetime. I am convinced, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the other heirs of Cudjoe are equally committed. We shall not relent and we shall remain steadfast. A copy of this letter is being forwarded to the Commission of Inquiry. Lincoln Lewis

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Thursday November 02, 2017

Traditional PPP supporters need to rethink throwing their weight behind that party again DEAR EDITOR, Jagdeo and the PPP have been making a lot of public noise recently over the seeming litany of blunders the Coalition has been making in the press. It is as if they smell blood and are ready to pounce and take control of government once again. Notwithstanding all of the coalition’s fumblings, Guyanese know well why the PPP was thrown out of office. While the PPP did secure a significant share of votes, much of these votes were derived from racial incitement by Jagdeo and company, and the fear of falling back into the hands of the PNC under the PNCR-led coalition. The traditional supporters should also know that while they have real

concerns, they must understand that PPP and Mr. Jagdeo have nothing good in store for them either. The following are some of the reasons why they have to cast the PPP aside and start their own party. 1. The PPP administration and Jagdeo systematically ran GUYSUCO into the ground during their last 15 years in office, jeopardizing the welfare of sugar workers and their families. When the PPP left office in 2015, the corporation was virtually bankrupt and continually required government financing to continue its unprofitable operations. Jadgeo’s personal involvement in the decision

to sink US$200 million into the Skeldon operations very probably stands as his greatest folly, and was very probably the final nail in GUYSUCO’s coffin as allegations surfaced that he disregarded advice which would have seen him choosing a more reputable and experienced Indian firm at a much lower cost of US$165 million or thereabouts. Although the European Union’s declared intention to permanently reduce prices for sugar placed a dent in the prospects for Guyana’s sugar industry and its thousands of workers who also happened to make up a significant support base of the PPP, the operations of GUYSUCO were allowed to run down amid charges of mismanagement

Heed your own advice first, and I promise that I will follow your lead, Mr. Lewis DEAR EDITOR, The most important right for the animals in George Orwell’s “Animal farm”, in my mind, is “All animals are equal.” As the animals were all “enjoying” this right, the clever swine changed the rule in the middle of the game. What do we have in our country? Mr. Lincoln Lewis, in his letter in KN of Oct 31st (Halloween Day) got very personal. He stated that my letter to KN on Oct 28th “proves how ‘unbecoming’ the discussions surrounding the constitutional appointment of Justice James Patterson as GECOM Chairman have become.” I checked the dictionary to get a clear understanding of what “unbecoming” means. The Free dictionary says, unbecoming is “not in keeping with accepted standards of what is right or proper in polite societies.” The first thought that came to my mind is whether Mr. Lewis is not defining himself. Let me be clear, I believe that Mr. Lewis is an honorable man and he has exposed all sides of the political divide, but you cannot have your cake and eat it too. Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion whether you agree with it or not. The fact that the President made the rules regarding the suitability of the person to fill the position of Chairmanship of GECOM, and then changed the rules in the middle of the game is downright deceptive. If the Guyanese people cannot take

the President at his word, then we are in serious trouble. The President laid out the “qualifications” of the person he is looking to fill the post. His qualification then becomes the “rule” of the game, Mr. Lewis. One of the President’s “rules” is that the person should not be a member of a political party. The mere fact that Justice Patterson was a pall bearer at President Hoyte’s funeral brings into the question the perception that he may be a member of the PNC. As you mentioned, he may have been a friend, but we have to go with logic here. If all of the other pall bearers were members of the PNC at the private funeral of the President, the perception one will entertain is that “all” of the pall bearers are members of the PNC. That perception may be wrong, but someone has to prove that it is wrong. All I am asking is for the President to say whether Justice Patterson is/was a member of the PNC. If he is, then the President disqualifies him from consideration of the Chairmanship of GECOM. For you to say that the President, having established the “rule” can still appoint someone contrary to his own rule, speaks volumes of you and the President. Those things happen in a “Banana Republic.” Maybe we are living in a banana republic where the politicians can say one thing today and then make a decision tomorrow that contradicts what was said yesterday. The “nonsense” you speak of in your letter “that a

person cannot have a political association and professionally discharge his or her duties” is the nonsense that the President says he does not want, yet he did exactly the opposite. The President says that the person should not be a member of a political party. Your energy is directed to the wrong person, you should take that up with the President. You seem to be a clearthinking person, and then you muddy the waters to suit your own agenda. What does Mr. Doodnauth Singh have to do with this? For your edification, the gentleman was nominated by President Hoyte to be considered for the post of GECOM Chair. If you had a problem with that nomination, you should have raised that with President Hoyte when he was putting his list together. Are you saying that President Hoyte did not know that Doodnauth Singh provided legal services to those who came up against the PNC government? See how baseless your arguments are, Mr. Lewis? My recommendation is that you should adhere to your own advice first. Jesus told us that we need to remove the beam from our eye first, and then take away the moth from our brother’s eye. Reasoning seems to be lacking in your assessment of things, and definitely it does contribute to further racial and political division. You should heed your own advice first, and I promise that I will follow your lead. Charles Sugrim

across all levels of its operations. Plans to address the corporation’s diversification were dragged out and fruitless up until the PPP’s exit in 2015 when the corporation consistently demanded billions of dollars annually for financial support. Today the corporation’s closure seems imminent as many workers’ issues remain unresolved. 2. The PPP’s embrace of corruption and pilfering of state funds reached such proportions that it creeped into the major organizations overseeing the operations of the rice sector. Sweet heart deals went through which saw payments to select supporters while many other rice farmers were forced into virtual penury as they were underpaid for their produce. In some instances, payments were delayed to such an extent that rice farmers were placed under severe financial stress and their operations placed in jeopardy 3. The PPP administration over its twenty three years in office

consistently demonstrated disdain and disregard for both public and private sector workers, neglecting to consider that many of Guyana’s workers suffered tremendously as a result of the policy reforms which were a result of the economic transformation that was effected to address the failed policies of the PNC during its 28-year run. Even after the first fifteen years in office, the PPP administration consistently handed out annual increases of the order of 5 per cent to public servants. Government’s wages policies heavily influenced that of the private sector so that today, much of Guyana’s workforce get by on depressed wages and in many instances, live below the poverty line. 4. A declared socialist based party, the PPP from its early years in office frustrated investment prospects which could have done much to reduce unemployment levels, raise incomes and potentially raise Guyana’s status internationally. The fruits of its efforts in this direction were brought to bear as Guyana’s economic

growth averaged 0.6 per cent from 1999 when Jagdeo took office to 2004, the year prior to the flood. A memorable instance was that of Case Timbers, where the company’s machinery was left so long uncleared by the GRA that decay set in and the company threatened to withdraw from the country. 5. Recognizing that his policies would generate very little export growth and revenues from the private sector, Jagdeo crafted the LCDS as a means for raising foreign currency internationally. With foreign currency and international support flowing in through this initiative, Jagdeo could thumb his nose at Guyana’s local private sector which never really lent him support in the first instance. 6. Many of the so-called foreign direct investment schemes during the PPP’s terms were in fact dressing to quell claims by the opposition that the PPP government was not doing enough to attract investment, stimulate economic growth and address our crucial Continued on page 23

The PNC’s ever-present fear of losing in a free and fair process DEAR EDITOR, The PNC-Led Coalition Government will always find it difficult to choose a chairman of the Elections Commission, period! In fact, if they should have their way, they would get rid of an elections commission altogether. This is the naked truth and no one can challenge me on this note. From its inception, the Carter Centre realized how entrenched the PNC was on hanging on to power, and the perennial problem of rigged elections, that they came up with a constitutional body, comprising government and opposition, towards the establishment of a Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). It is an independent body (at least should be) which would administer free and fair elections. What the PNC has done is prostitute the system and turned it into a body that is owned and controlled by them. In this regard, we have come a full 180o - back to the place where we were prior to 1992. The stage is set and the next move is to carry out a rigged election. But like I said in a previous letter, the task of rigging the next election would be extremely difficult to carry out, especially when you view a failed economy like a millstone hanging around their necks. How could any-

one be so daft as to vote for them when the situation in the country is in dire straits? The situation has worsened in every respect and the lives of the people are most miserable. No one in his/her right mind can envision a PNC-Led Coalition victory with the state this economy is in. I repeat, no one! So, there are some of the insurmountable hurdles that they have to face up to in order to pull off a victory. Even among its own supporters the fear and uncertainty is real, all around are the cries of the poor and dispossessed. It has now dawned on them that they were led to believe that this administration would ever deliver anything good. They were fooled, used and abused by the Granger Government. That being said, let me get back to the real fear of the PNC. Their fear lies in an elections commission as well as in a free and fair process, that’s their problem. Going back to the days of Desmond Hoyte, a GECOM, as well as the appointment of a chairman of that entity, was a sore point. Hoyte took two years to finally come to the point of acceptance in 1992. The establishment of Mr Rudy Collins as the first chairman then saw the holding of

free and fair elections and the restoration of the democratic process. From 1992 until October of this year, this constitutional right worked for us, that is, the chairman is selected from a list of six names submitted by the Opposition, in this instance eighteen names. That is it, end of discussion! However, on the coming to office and power of the PNC, the Carter formula has suddenly become a problem. There is this crass departure from the norm where the President can refuse selection of one of 18 names and choose a known party loyalist of his own. This is unacceptable under any known circumstances and should not be condoned. The President must choose a name from the list provided by The Leader of The Opposition. And no amount of excuses from the spin doctors can change that fact. They cannot wish away the fact. They cannot convince anyone that Mr Granger cannot select a name from the three lists submitted by Dr. Jagdeo? Never! Try making excuses and see how foolish they are made out to be. But, the fear of losing in a free and fair process is ever present and real to the PNC, that’s their problem. Neil Adams

Thursday November 02, 2017

Kaieteur News

Change from outside

Guyanese came out in their numbers on May 11, 2015 to vote the mighty PPPC out of office. The supporters of the AFC and the APNU had smelt the possibility of victory ever since the 2011 elections delivered a minority government. The supporters of the AFC and APNU were emboldened by that result, and with the two parties merging into a pre-election coalition, they smelt the possibility of dethroning the mighty PPPC which had never in the history of Guyana lost an election. The coalition really did not dent the PPPC’s support base, as many felt. The result

of the elections showed that the PPPC got virtually the same percentage of votes as it did in the 2011 polls and the joint opposition did the same. The political change which resulted from the 2011 came from outside of Guyana. What caused the change was therefore the marriage between the AFC and the APNU. The match was not made locally. In fact, it was made in the Bahamas by foreign forces which had brought an influential figure from the AFC and another from the APNU together and there the Nassau Understanding was born. That explains how the

APNU and the AFC united. What it does not explain is how the PPPC which since 1192 had always secured a majority, slipped to under 50% of the electorate. Again, one has to look outside of Guyana for the explanation. It was the migration of large numbers of Guyanese during the final years of the Jagdeo regime which caused the support base of the PPP to shrink enough for them to lose the elections. The coalition chances were helped by United States meddling in the elections through certain artificially created civil society groupings, as they had done in Venezuela earlier. The US

also contributed to the PPPC defeat by their liberal visa policy leading up to both the 2011 and 2015 elections. A number of PPP supporters took advantage of that policy in sufficient numbers to affect their majority. The external supporters of the AFC in Canada were of the view that they helped in effecting change in Guyana. The AFC supporters in Canada, for example, were of the view that their US$75,000 donations swung victory the coalition’s way. They have no idea that what they gave was chicken feed when compared to what it would have cost the AFC to run that campaign. So it was not the foreign money

First lady labels impersonator a “damn crook” - con-woman fleecing victims countrywide Someone has been impersonating First Lady, Sandra Granger over the past few months, and a peeved Mrs. Granger yesterday described the con artist as a “damn crook”. The first lady went public about this matter some time ago, but brought the issue up again yesterday at the GTT Pinktober activity at the entity's Brickdam head office. “There is a woman going around the place, who is impersonating me. This has been going on for months. She has an assistant and she is calling people and saying she is me and is duping people out of their money, using mobile money.” Mrs. Granger went on to say that the fraudsters have already fleeced victims of hundreds of thousands of dollars. She noted that the press and social media had highlighted the issue before. Most recently, just about four days ago, the first lady explained, “A woman called… she is now telling them that she can get visas for them and this is throughout the country.” She noted that the

fraudster started her activities in the interior locations but has now spread the scam to other areas. She encouraged persons to inform their friends and family that, “The first lady and her husband (President David Granger) have no scholarships to offer. All government scholarships come through the Ministry of Public Service. Only countries can issue visas to their respective countries.” The first lady said she was asked to “hold off”, since she had complained to the Guyana Police Force. However, “nothing has happened” since her complaint, according to her. She expressed great dissatisfaction on the matter because of the number of people that are being deprived of their hard earned cash. She even said that there was one woman who was in tears after she sent $90,000 to the fraudster with the hope of her daughter and niece obtaining scholarships. While describing the impersonator as a “damn crook”, she said, “The young man

phones, with the amount for a bill, after which it would be transferred to the required account. GTT claims, however that the service is safe since it provides its users with a Personal Identification Number (PIN). The PIN would be a four digit secret number that the user selects personally.

First lady, Sandra Granger who helps her is equally culpable, I hope that they are caught”. Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of GTT. It is Guyana's first and only mobile financial services provider that avails an electronic wallet which facilitates an innovative way of performing transactions and payments. It does this when the customer purchases C-point mobile top-up for their cellular

Task Force established to facilitate... From page 8 negotiations, among other issues, faced by teachers. The union had threatened to agitate its teachers into strike action if government had failed to engage swift action. Strike action was slated for today and tomorrow but was cancelled after fruitful discussions between the Head of State and union executives on Monday. Up to 2015, teachers were benefitting from a multi-year remuneration agreement which was inked under the PPP/C Administration. That agreement expired in December of 2015. The very month, union representatives said

that a proposal for a new agreement was presented to the Ministry of Education. However, negotiations in that regard were stalled on multiple occasions. According to the GTU President, while the Ministry had signed off on the non-financial aspects of the proposal, the financial aspect was being stalled. In its proposal, the union has asked for, among other things, a 40 percent across the board increase for teachers for last year; 45 percent increase for this year and 50 percent for the following three years (2018-2020) for all categories of teachers. The union in its proposal,

too, took into consideration inflation and had made it clear that “should there be inflation higher than the percentage agreed upon, then the teachers/teacher-educators must get the benefit of the difference.” But Lyte had confided that since the union was only making a proposal, the Ministry [Government] was well within its right to offer completely different percentages. Even as the Task Force guides the negotiation, Government has announced that teachers will in the meantime benefit from six to eight percentage increases retroactive to January 1, 2017.

that caused the APNU+AFC coalition to win the election; it was other external factors. Guyanese at home took credit for the victory. But when they thought they were voting for change, they now are of the view that what they got was neither change nor exchange. What the Guyanese voters got was shortchange. The APNU+AFC is worse that the PPP at its worst. The coalition is hopeless, hapless and helpless. The electorate in Guyana is polarized and change is not likely to come from within. You just have to look at how the controversy of the appointment of the Chairman of GECOM is unfolding to understand that change is not going to come from within. Both the AFC and the WPA are now beyond any form of political redemption. But it seems that political savior has been born and that savior is from outside of Guyana. The AFC’s membership in Canada has disassociated itself from the party unless the executive of its party disassociates itself from President Granger’s decision to appoint a Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission.

PAGE 9

It seems as if the change that people wanted all along will come not from inside Guyana but from outside. The actions of the AFC Canada Group are unprecedented in the political history of Guyana. Never before has something like that happen. There are major concerns among PNCR supporters in New York about the way they are being treated by the government. But they have never come out and taken the sort of action that the AFC Canada Group has done. These actions of the AFC Canada Group can signal a decisive break with the traditional follow-the-leader politics which has led to so much apathy in Guyana. Perhaps things are changing. And perhaps the change that so many Guyanese voted for will come from outside of Guyana. We will have to wait to see if other AFC groups will follow the members of the AFC in Canada.

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Thursday November 02, 2017

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Filaria tablets, bail money, and the face of the Finance Minister A friend asked me to get the filaria tablets for him and his wife because he is working the night shift the past six weeks; his wife is sick at home. I went to three health centres and the response was the same – every citizen above age two has to be present in person to receive the tablets. At Industry Health Centre, I was told when other people collect the tablets, there is no guarantee that the recipients will drink them so citizens have to come in person and be administered the drug. At the Campbellville Health Centre, I was told that

the person has to join the line at the pharmacy when he goes there for the tablets. Let us suppose an employer gives you time to quickly go and collect the stuff but the line is very long, then, you are out of luck because I observed that all three of the health centres that I visited in the morning hour were filled with many patients. For every citizen above age two to go to a health centre to collect the tablets does not make sense to me. But wait, there is still hope! The Ministry of Public Health (don’t know why it was

changed from Health to Public Health since the Ministry regulates the entire health system in Guyana, including private hospitals) advised us that teams are visiting your districts and the teams are at popular spots; like widely patronised supermarkets and places of entertainment. At two supermarkets that I go to all the time, employees there told me no one came around distributing filaria tablets. They haven’t come to Turkeyen where I live. My wife is always at home and we have a working buzzer at the gate. I rang the Ministry of Health (oops, Public Health Ministry, that is), but was told that the Minister was at a

meeting. I then asked for the junior Minister Cummings because I know her. I met her when she spoke at a public meeting during the 2015 election campaign and her husband and I are friends. I was told that she was at a meeting too. The Permanent Secretary was at a meeting too. I was advised to speak to the filaria campaign head, a doctor by the name of Moses. He was at a meeting too (even God cannot save this country). A few days after my enquiry, the secretary of Dr. Moses made contact. I received the call when I was driving and I was a couple of feet away from a cop regulating traffic. I couldn’t speak. Dr. Moses never called back. I bought the tablets (they are sold very cheaply at the private pharmacy) for the man and his wife. It makes no sense asking people who physically cannot go to a health centre and who did not receive a visit from officials but this is Guyana and that aspect of life here in this

country is closed for me. I wrote about it; end of story. In yesterday’s column, I wrote about trying to collect station bail, lodged at Number 51 Village Police Station on Sunday evening but couldn’t collect it the next day because a sergeant had the money locked up and only he could have signed for it and he was forty five miles away from the station at another police station. On that very next day, all bail money was being sent to Georgetown. So if two neighbours of the station were put on bail on Sunday night and the matter was ended, those two persons in Berbice on Wednesday would have to travel over a hundred miles to Georgetown to collect their money. I don’t know the reason for this procedure and frankly I don’t want to know because the timing situation makes no sense to me. But if you read these thousands of columns over the years, you would know I have written countless times that Guyana does not

Frederick Kissoon make sense to me. If you are travelling west on the Railway Embankment where I live, as soon as you pass Giftland Mall, there is a very huge billboard with a coloured advertisement with the Minister of Finance smiling broadly indicating that the 2018 budget will soon be here and it will be a good one. Does it make sense to spend so much money on these billboards just to inform people that it will be a good budget for the citizens? Just one of those billboards has to be in the range of hundreds of thousands of dollars. How can the government spend money so lavishly while we just give public servants and teachers a mere eight percent increase? Where is Nietzsche’s Ubermensch?

Thursday November 02, 2017

CCJ orders Belize govt. to pay millions to settle agreement dating back to 2015 PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – The Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) yesterday ordered the Belize government to pay more than US$62 million by November 10 to two companies following a settlement agreement dating back to 2015. The CCJ, which is the country’s highest court, said that the Dean Barrow government would have to pay Dunkeld International Investment Ltd and the Belize Telemedia Employees Trust US$62.8 million and BZ$245,155 (One Belize dollar=US$0.49 cents) respectively. The monies due to the Belize Telemedia Employees Trust were determined to be US$15,3 million and BZ$10.3 million and the CCJ ruled that the November 10 deadline was sufficient time for the government to make the payment. The matter arose from a Settlement Agreement made between the parties and, by consent, made an order of the CCJ in 2015. The agreement provided for calculating payment of compensation arising from the nationalization of Belize Telemedia Ltd (BTL) and associated companies. A dispute arose as to the calculation of the amounts of US dollars and Belize dollars that should be remitted to the claimants, though they were to hold the funds provided in Belize dollars on trust to fund projects for the benefit of the

Belize population. The parties returned to the CCJ to settle the issue. Earlier, in 2005 an agreement had been made by the former government conferring tax-free guaranteed returns on a group of investors who acquired, among other investments, shares in BTL. But the Barrow led United Democratic Party (UDP) considered that agreement to be invalid and refused to honour it. The government later acquired the company. The decision resulted in Dunkeld seeking compensation in arbitration proceedings under an international investment treaty, while the Trust took legal proceedings up to the CCJ as to the invalidity of the nationalization statutes. Dunkeld was later joined as a party to those proceedings to enable all parties to be bound by the terms of the Settlement Agreement embodied in an Order of the CCJ made by consent of all parties. The final payments to be made under the Settlement to Dunkeld and the Trust on 28 June 2017 turned upon a determination of the “Dunkeld Liabilities” and the “Trust Liabilities” incurred in connection with the compulsory acquisition of BTL. The CCJ in its consent order had granted liberty to apply to the Court if issues arose as to enforcement of the terms of the settlement.

To determine the final payment, Dunkeld and the Trust unilaterally pushed ahead to appoint a reputable independent auditor to determine their respective actual liabilities as of 28 June 2017, without seeing if all parties could agree on one auditor or have one appointed by the court if there was no agreement. The Belize Government made it clear in March 2017 that it would not accept liabilities other than as agreed by itself. The claimants, however, waited until after the due date before applying to the CCJ. The CCJ held that no interest should be payable from 28 June 2017 until 10 November 2017 but the amounts due should be determined on the basis of the independent auditor’s certification of Dunkeld and Trust Liabilities as of 28 June 2017. The CCJ said it is holding the Belize government to tough terms if the payments are not remitted by 10 November 2017. “If full payment is not made by then, interest of 8.34 per cent compounded quarterly under the arbitration tribunal’s award will be applied to the remaining amount. Moreover, interest on unpaid interest will also be payable at the rate of 6% compounded monthly under the terms of the Settlement,” the CCJ ruled. No order was made as to costs.

Speaker collapses, hospitalised after marathon debate

CASTRIES, St. Lucia (CMC) – The Speaker of the St. Lucia Parliament, Leonne Theodore-John was released from hospital yesterday after she collapsed during a marathon session of the House of Assembly. Theodore-John, a lawyer by profession, is reported to have complained about feeling unwell shortly after 7.00 pm (local time) on Tuesday prior to the start of the debate on the Airport Development Bill, one of several pieces of legislation debated and passed on Tuesday. She is reported to have fainted and take to the nearby Tapion Hospital. Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, who wished the Speaker, said he wished her a speedy recovery. “On behalf of the government of St. Lucia and the Honourable Members of Parliament, I wish the Honourable Speaker of the

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Speaker of the St. Lucia Parliament, Leonne Theodore-John House Mrs. Leonne Theodore-John a speedy recovery following yesterday’s House of Parliament session,” Chastanet said.

“I have since spoken to the Speaker of the House and she is in good spirits and doing much better and we continue to pray for her full recovery,” he added.

Hurricane damage significantly impacts Caribbean tourism BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – The region is observing Caribbean Tourism Month in November amid the “significant” economic impact caused by the passage of Hurricanes Irma and Maria through the Lesser Antilles last month Secretary General of the Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), Hugh Riley, said that the regional tourism sector in 2017 can be described as a “tale of two situations” as a result of the Category 5 hurricanes that devastated countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, the British Virgin Islands, the Turks and Caicos Islands, Anguilla, St. Martin and to a lesser extent the Bahamas and St. Kitts-Nevis. Riley said that during the first half of this year, the region performed at new record pace, welcoming 16.6 million international tourist arrivals at a healthy growth rate of 5.2 per cent, when compared to the same period last year. However, following the passage of the hurricanes, growth was severely impacted with the revised forecast for 2017 now at one to two per cent, down from 2.5 to 3.5 per cent. “The economic impact of the storms is significant. The Caribbean Development Bank predicts that every one per cent reduction in tourist arrivals (based on 2015 travel data) will cost US$137 million in lost revenue. “No doubt, the hurricanes have presented us with some major challenges, but we are

CTO Secretary General Hugh Riley determined to rebuild better and more sustainably,’ Riley said. He said while the affected countries are at various stages on the road back to normality, it is also important to note that over 75 per cent of the region was unscathed by the storms. “In this context, we encourage you to keep visiting the Caribbean, as this is the best way to help the region,” he said, noting that during Caribbean Tourism Month “we will focus on adventure, in keeping with the Year of Adventure. “Mindful of the impact of the storms, there are still countless travel adventures to be had this month and for the remainder of the year. We look forward to hearing of the

various events and activities planned for the month, and with your permission, we will share your information and images. “ He said the month also provides an opportunity to reiterate the message that “we are open for business and we do have an exciting product to offer. “Yes, some challenges remain and those are being addressed, but let’s also emphasize the superb experiences we can offer to guests right now and help them and their companions have a Caribbean adventure to remember. “Together, let’s keep the right focus on this important industry and reaffirm the value of One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean,” Riley added.

LAC economies record nearly 400 business reforms over last 15 years WASHINGTON (CMC) – The World Bank says the economies in Latin America and the Caribbean continue to reform their business climate for small and medium enterprises, recording nearly 400 business reforms over the last 15 years. The World Bank Group’s 15th anniversary report, “Doing Business 2018: Reforming to Create Jobs,” showed that half of the region’s 32 economies implemented reforms in the past year, bringing to a total of 398 the number of reforms enacted in the past 15 years. The report says that El Salvador earned a “notable spot” in this year’s global top improvers, with four reforms adopted during the past year. These included improving the reliability of electricity by introducing a better outage management system and maintenance planning,

and making it easier for businesses to pay taxes by implementing an online platform for filing and payment of taxes, the report states. Joining El Salvador in implementing multiple reforms were Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, with three reforms each. With 34 reforms, Colombia has implemented the most reforms in Latin America and the Caribbean, the report says. In “Starting a Business,” it says Colombia has reduced the number of days to register a new business to 11 days, from 44 days in 2003. The report notes that Mexico and Jamaica are second and third in the region in the number of reforms implemented over time, with 26 and 25 reforms respectively. Fifteen years ago, the report says it took 31.5 days to start a business in Mexico City, compared to 8.5 days

today. In Jamaica, which is in the top five ranked economies in “Starting a Business,” it takes just three days to register a business, compared to 31 days 15 years ago, the report says. “Economies in the region have significantly reduced the time to start a business by introducing online systems, simplifying procedures and launching one stop shops for business registration. “Now, on average, starting a business in the region takes 38 days, compared to 78 days 15 years ago. Nevertheless, the current average is still significantly above the global average of 20 days,” the report noted. According to the World Bank report, El Salvador and Jamaica reduced the time to start a business and improved the reliability of electricity supply.

PAGE 22

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK;Guyanapassport application. G r a p h i c s design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVEMARKETING& PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Internationally experienced examiner inhandwriting & Question documents. Specialized: Wills, Deeds, Identify theft etc. Call /whatsapp :416-827-5239. Email:k02g099@hotmail.com Landscaping, flower plants for sale treating& trimming. Cut down trees & treating the land.Call:627-5969 PASSPORT, PERMANENT & VISITOR VISA APPLICATION, PROFESSIONAL IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT – SABITA IMMIGRATION SERVICES. CALL: 613-3920/ 625-3767.

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Pharmacy for sale 4 Stalls Bourda Market .Tel #6034017 Video games and consoles at affordable price. Repairs to video game system .Call:6722566/265-3231 1. Cat 320 BL Excavator, 1. Cat 215 B Excavator, 1. Cat 428 Back- Hoe, 1. Leyland Daft Truck, 1. 8CU.YD. Mack Cement Mixer Truck. Contact: 275-0367, 275-0538/ 683-7225 1. Double Steel Wheeled Road Roller, 1. 9-Wheeled Pneumatic Roller, 1. 450GLNS. Bitumen Spray Kettle, 1. Honda 450 ATV Bike. Contact: 275-0367, 275-0538/ 6837225 Gold &Diamond Land for sale giving out possession Ekerou, Parish Hill &Mazaruni. Call: 696-7287/ 652-6894. Whatsapp # 6000036/ 690-5300 Toyota IST. Call: 642-6664

FOR RENT

WANTED

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

Security to work in the interior. Must have Military/ Police background. Age range 35-50. Contact # 2269768

Meadow Bank, long term rental. Fully furnished 3 bedrooms apartment, parking, cameras etc- Call: 671-4221 Property for rent - 2 storey house at Republic Park, E.B.D$1200US. Call 647-1773 Two Bedroom apartment at Stewartville West Coast Demerara. Tel# 613-5261 1 2-Bedroom self- contained apartment. Plantation Providence, E.B.Dem. Contact: 618-6207/673-1617 1 Bedroom apartment fully furnished, grill, tile floor. Price negotiable $ 50,000 month. 25 Craig Street/ delph AvenueCampbelville. Contact :613-7542/223-1332

ParfaiteHarmonie Business spot $3.5m, $1.3m, $2.5m. ParfaiteHarmonieten year up $3.5m, Tuschen $2.5m, Herstelling $3.3m, $2.8m. Call:666-2326

Wanted one experience cook and counter staff.Tel#2260554 Experienced Curry cook, Roti/ Puri cook, Cleaners. Apply Hack Halaal. 5 Commerce St. Call: 227-4473 American Variety Store. 140 Regent & Light street Georgetown. Experience Cashier & Sales girl apply with application. 1 Female Cleaner for office in eccles. Contact # 614-4358 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic- Call: 223-7500 Monday to Saturday 8:15am-4:15pm

Allion, Primo, Fielder Wagon, Spacio, Bluebird, 212 Carina, NZE, Honda CRV, Toyota IST, RZ & Pitbull – Call: 650-7501 Fielder Wagon in excellent condition.Call:664-0802 Nissan Pathfinder jeep& Nissan Laurel car fully loaded. Price negotiable $1.4 million each.Call:609-7766 1 Twin-steer, double axle Leyland DAF & 4 Flatbed Leyland DAF all in excellent condition. Owner migratingCall: 649-8449, 228-5655 1-Caterpillar skid steer loader 236B $3.8M. Contact # 6500-402 Mitsubishi Pajero. Best offer accepted- Call: 219-5354 Monday to Friday 8:15am4:15pm, Saturday 8:15am4:15pm

VACANCY Male/ Female Receptionist, Maid @ Hilton Hotel. Contact 225-9211 Henry Street. Cook/ baker and Kitchen Assistant for interior location. Applicants must have experience. Call:618-2020 Counter Attendants apply to Dian’s Deli. Barr Street Kitty next to the Fish shop. Call: 225-3700

Upper flatPhone:670-6997. 26 Hill Street Albouystown Rent Business. Contact :6722580/223-7771

TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)

General maintenance man. Age 25-50 Tel: 225-0198 or visit 233 South Rd,Lacytown.

MASSAGE Angels Massaging Spa. Come relax and be pampered. Call: 694-9775

Chef and assistant chef. Please call 225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff St.

LEARN TO DANCE Dance classes to keep fit, lose weight, build self-esteem and have fun. Studio 87 call:676-6312

Porters, Wood mizer, Re-saw and Ripsaw operator, Moulder operator. Eccles Industrial Site E.B.Dem. Call Richard 609-7675/ 674-1705/ 233-2614

SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. -CosmetologyCourses:$90,000 Technician Course: $35,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 Virgin Gold and Diamond mining,claim in Cuyuni. Seeking joint Venture, Lease purchase or sale. Contact # 671-9478

EDUCATION Study and work in Canada or US. Acceptance Guaranteed Micrographics Technology. Vreed-En- Hoop. Contact: 264-3057 Earn a Diploma in Computers 9 Courses $ 40,000. Computerized Accounting $40,000 4 Courses Micrographics. Vreed-En-Hoop. Contact: 264-3057 Day Care and Pre-K classes available in Diamond Call Canadian School 2166921,216-6922 Register your child for after school classes for slow learners in Mathematics, Reading, Phonics, Spelling, etc. Call: 675-4379 SERVICES Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezer-Call: 610-5846 or 661-8158

CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR R E N TA L : S U V F O R RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL:6560 0 8 7 , 6 4 3 - 5 1 2 2 ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM DOLLY’SCARRENTAL-CALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP RATES,SPECIALOFFERS! CALL: 690-6494

PROPERTY FOR SALE Large 3 bedroom house on spacious land. All amenities in tact. Versailles Public Road W.B.D. Call: 609-7766/2641141.

LAND FOR SALE ParfaiteHarmonie $1.4m,$3.5m,$2.5m,$1.6m, Tuschen $2.7m, Hersteling $3.5m,$3m, Province $3.5m, V-Hoop $45m. Call: 6046724/ 686-9608.

Experienced s a l e s m a n , general domestic, porter. Apply with hand written application & recommendation @ Keyfood, McDoom Village.

Two bedroom bottom flat, fully grilled, fenced, concrete yard @ Tuschen Housing Scheme. Call: 692-5525/ 266-3973/660-0483

FOR SALE/RENT

VEHICLE FOR SALE Mercedes Benz 2009 C200. Immaculate Condition- Call 616-5933

Land for Sale in gated community at land of Canaan 50 x 100. Contact # 694-7817/ 612-1351

Female babysitter age 35-50 in Georgetown, 6 days per week Call 614-5711 to apply.

Space in Charlotte Street, central Georgetown .Ground floor. Call #608-5303

Eagle’s: Re-gas –low prices, washing machine repairs, gas stove, plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/6460966

LAND FOR SALE 15 Acre transport land for sale. West Bank of Demerara River. Opposite TimehriDoek.Contact : 2224708 Farm(East Bank)New Scheme $3.5m, ParfaiteHarmonie (upfront)$1.5m,Uivlugt $3.5m(high income).Tel:6511969/667-1960

Thursday November 02, 2017

Kaieteur News

AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807

One(1) three(3) Bedroom concrete house located in a gated community at Schoonord, W.B.D. All rooms self- contained. Contact:6602233 TOLET

WANTED

Camp ST. Area Middle & Upper floor, for Offices, School and other type of Business. Call Richard 6097675/ 674-1705/233-2614

Want Land & House. ParfaiteHarmonie, Tuschen, Herstelling, Province, West Coast, East Bank. Call:6046724/ 686-9608

FOR SALE 70 head cows. 219-3384, 688-6353

Thursday November 02, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Magistrate to rule on admissibility of Fredrick Kissoon testimony in assault trial One year after newspaper columnist, Frederick Kissoon gave his testimony in the trial against three, accused of throwing faeces on him in 2010, it is being called inadmissible by Attorney-at-law Glenn Hanoman, who is representing one of the men in the trial. Principal Magistrate, Judy Latchman is set to rule on the competence of Kissoon’s testimony come November 8. Kwame McCoy, Jason Abdulla and Shawn Hinds are accused of assaulting Kissoon on May 24, 2010, at Georgetown. They are all out on $100,000 bail. Yesterday, Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves closed his case before Magistrate Latchman which has being ongoing for more than a year. The men allegedly threw fecal matter into Kissoon’s face when he emerged from Nigel’s Supermarket, at Robb Street, Georgetown. It was reported that an individual walked up to the

Fredrick Kissoon

Shawn Hinds

Kwame McCoy

columnist’s vehicle and threw the substance on him. After the attack, Kissoon reportedly drove behind the perpetrator who ran north along Light Street then went into North Road, before jumping into a waiting car. Attorney, Latchmie Rahamat is representing McCoy; Attorneys, Euclin Gomes and Glenn Hanoman are representing Abdulla; Hinds is being represented by Attorney George Thomas. Hanoman stated that the evidence given by Fredrick

Kissoon on August 23 last, is deemed inadmissible citing that Kissoon was unable to answer simple questions when he gave his testimony. Last year when Kissoon was called to give his testimony to the court, he recalled on the day in question, he had left Nigel’s Supermarket on Robb Street, Georgetown and entered his vehicle which was parked nearby. He said that he had wound down his vehicle’s window when a man walked up and threw a substance on

him. The witness recounted that after the substance was thrown on him, a man of African descent walked away, jogged across North Road, proceeded down Merriman Mall and entered a motorcar. He also went on to describe his attacker’s height and body structure. When asked by Prosecutor Bostwick if there were other persons in the car, Kissoon replied in the affirmative. However, when asked by the prosecutor to point out the person who had thrown

Morning Glory Rice Cereal sees grand launch... From page 18 distributor to distribute the product countrywide. This product has taken the Essequibo Coast by storm and already, the brand has captured the hearts and palates of the population there. PRODUCT CREATION The process for the creation of Morning Glory Cereal utilises 99% raw materials produced in Guyana. The list of ingredients includes broken rice, rice bran, sugar and molasses. Only salt, baking soda and a fortifying vitamin cocktail is imported. The broken rice is further milled into rice flour in a process which is relatively quiet and creates no dust pollution, and this is then mixed with fresh sifted rice bran, sugar,

baking soda and salt in a high speed mixer. From this point onwards, the entire process is automated until the cereal is packaged. Workers in the plant, who are needed only to process the raw materials and introduce it to the process and to monitor the quality of the cereal as it is produced as well as ensure that the plant environment is kept scrupulously clean, follow a strict regimen of hygienic controls. The processing area can be viewed by visitors and office staff through view windows constructed specifically for this purpose. Professor, Suresh Narine who heads IAST explained that the design flow of the facility was motivated in part by the design of several food

plants he worked in for M&M Mars in the United States and internationally, in research and development. He was also loud in praise for Mr. Sewpersaud Manohar, the Head of the Food and Feed Department at the IAST, who he credits as the inventor of the Cereal and who had extensive input into the design of the final plant. The process generates no waste – any cereal which is rejected due to quality deviations or over supply, is fed to local pigs through relationships established by the facility with local livestock farmers. The facility has a strict quality control system: cereals are assessed on the basis of shape integrity, coating integrity, colour, degree of caramelisation, amount of

product dust, integrity of packaging, etc. The facility itself is kept in an ultra-clean state, with the plant being thoroughly cleaned after every production shift, and complete line preventative maintenance being performed weekly. The plant has the capacity to produce 200 kg of cereal in an hour, so that if three shifts are employed, it is possible to produce 1, 000 metric tonnes of cereal in a calendar year. Professor Narine said that one would never want to run the facility that hard. Due to the amount of rice in the cereal, this is very nearly a demand of 800 metric tonnes of rice in a year, when the plant is operated at maximum capacity.

Traditional PPP supporters need to rethink throwing... From page 6 unemployment issues. The investment in Linden yielded little or nothing for the town and Guyana. The highly touted Bai Shan lin venture was always riddled with claims of corruption which included undervaluing of exports and massive duty waivers, which in total amounted to a complete rape of Guyana’s resources by this company. 7. Petty corruption on a massive scale became part and parcel of government operations as businesses and private individuals were

routinely placed over a barrel to have their imports processed and many other government services provided. Bribery and corruption became a norm during the course of transactions with government ministries and agencies. 8. The PPP sought to dominate the media by its selective issuances of licenses to its supporters. The local media particularly Channel 6, endured much harassment from the PPP as the station continually embarrassed the government

on numerous issues. 9. Finally, the PPP’s penchant for misappropriating taxpayers’ money is very probably unsurpassed and unmatched in the Caribbean region, from the misuse of NIS funds to build the Berbice bridge, which now costs so much as to make travel for some prohibitive, to the Marriott fiasco which needs no further disclosure here. These are the main issues the supporters of the PPP need to consider before throwing their weight behind the PPP again. Because if the

PPP were ever allowed back into office again, it is an almost certainty that they will pick up exactly where they left off and continue to mistreat and abuse Guyanese workers with absolute disregard while pilfering taxpayers’ money through corruption and overpriced contracts. For the 2020 elections I propose we bundle the PPP and Coalition together into one party to form the PPP/ Con, which will represent our past. The party to be formed will represent our future. Craig Sylvester

the substance on him, Kissoon was unable to do so, indicating that the individual was not present in court. Under further cross examination by Hanoman, Kissoon said that he discarded the shirt he was wearing at the time of the attack, because he had no reason for wanting to keep a nasty piece of material. “For such an event in your life, you can’t remember what type of shirt you were wearing?” the Magistrate asked. Kissoon then sought to explain that it was an ordinary denim shirt. In addition, Hanoman requested the Magistrate to warn Kissoon about his demeanour. At this stage, Kissoon asked the Magistrate to tell him what was wrong about his demeanour. The Magistrate did not respond. Hanoman and Kissoon had an exchange of

words after Kissoon refused to answer questions he said were not clear to him. It was then that Hanoman asked the Magistrate to make a ruling on Kissoon’s competence to continue as a witness. The Magistrate did not do such. During cross examination by Rahamat, Kissoon was asked how he was able to identify his attacker since he mentioned in his testimony that he was in a state of shock. In response, he told the lawyer that although he was in a state of shock, it did not affect his visual capabilities. During Kissoon’s testimony, Rahamat requested for the Magistrate to warn Kissoon. The Attorney did not specify what she wanted the witness to be warned about. Kissoon repeatedly asked Magistrate Latchman what the lawyer was implying, but she declined to answer.

GTT closes curtains on Pinktober... From page 14 touch the lives of customers and when we first started working: the goal was firstly; “How do we at GTT do more in the community? How do we get GTT to do more in the culture and with their products?” So we wanted to find the platform to do all of those things in a powerful way and so GTT's Pinktober was the platform that we have decided to do that.” On September 28, last, GTT launched the inaugural 'Pinktober' month, slated for October. The activity effectively promoted awareness for

persons affected by cancer and raised funds for the Guyana Cancer Foundation through the Pinktober deals. The event was able to secure $500 from every Pinktober deal for the Guyana Cancer Foundation, which was given to customers with the purchase of any Pinktober special deals. The deal also entitled customers to a free ticket to any of three shows that the company is sponsoring, admission to the Breast Cancer Awareness five K and 10K Walk, among several other great opportunities.

Thursday November 02, 2017

Barbados looking to sugar and rum sectors to boost tourism revenue BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – For more than three centuries, the Barbados economy relied heavily on sugar and rum production. However, by the 1990 and with the decline of sugar exports, the tourism sector has emerged as the island’s main income earner. The Central Bank of Barbados (CBB) in August reported that sugar production for the first six months of this year was a mere 10,000 tonnes. Rum exports, however earned BDS$76.9 million (One Barbados dollar=US$0.50 cents) in 2016. Now, as tourism officials seek to diversify the tourism product and improve the island’s competitiveness on the global stage, they have turned their attention to heritage tourism, with a focus on the sugar and rum industries. Latest figures released by the CBB note that the tourism sector played a significant role in the island’s economic growth of 1.4 per cent during the first nine months of this year. But it said tourism output,

which fuelled the stronger growth performance over the first half of the year, fell during the third quarter, due to a reduction in the average length-of-stay of visitors and hurricane-related disruptions to tourist arrivals in September. “The improved tourism performance for the first nine months of the year enabled the external current account to stabilise.,” it said adding that the activity in the tourism sector expanded by 4.1 per cent during the first three quarters of the year, compared to 2.8 per cent growth for the corresponding period in 2016. While September arrivals fell by 3.3 per cent, data for the January to September period of 2017 showed a cumulative growth in long-stay visitors of 6.2 per cent, relative to the same period in 2016. Arrivals from the U.S. and Canada remained robust, expanding by 14.4 and 10.7 per cent, respectively, but the performance of the U.K. market was on par with 2016.

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Thursday November 02, 2017

Thursday November 02, 2017

Region two wraps up Inter Branch athletics Championship The Anna Regina Center Ground was on last Friday blanketed with the spirit of competitiveness, as scores of spectators turned out to witness the finale of School athletics competition in Region Two [Pomeroon Supenaam.] Fierce competition between the Region’s North, South Central and Pomeroon branch, allured many as the fight for scoring points, became the athletes’ key objective. The under eighteen 100m, and the under twenty 200m events, twirled up excitement as famous athletes set out to break their personal best. Famous National athletes, Joshua Jones, Melissa Brummel, Onecia Stoby and Jamar Jack were just a few who dominated the under 18 and under 20 competitions. Joshua Jones

secured first place for three events, having competing in the male under 20 discuss, Shot Put and Javelin field events. Female under 20 star, Melissa Brummel on the other hand secured first place after running the 3000 m race. Male under 18 athlete, Jamar Jack completed the 800m with first place. Stoby, who also competed the female under 18, concluded the 400 meters in first place. The Pomeroon Branch managed to maintain its winning streak in the swimming competition, walking home with first place for the event. In the overall ranking, The Essequibo North Branch maintained their decade long winning streak as they dominated the competition with an overall score of 1799.5 points. South Branch scooped up second place with 1689.5 points, leaving the Pomeroon branch

with 1173 points. Though the events fostered extreme competition between the Region’s North, South central and Pomeroon branch, the main focus was selecting the best athletes for the designated events. These athletes will shortly represent the Region, as they take their competitiveness to the National School Athletics championship. As suggested by Miss Cheryl Peters Moore, local businesses should do more to support local athletes in Region Two. Miss Moore who is also chairman of the Inter Branch sports added, “We have young athletes in Region Two with a lot of talent. Many of them however just need that extra boost to take their game to another level. Perhaps if there were training clubs setup in the Region our athletes will be able to benefit more meaningfully.”

Thursday November 02, 2017 Aries: Mar 21 - Apr 19 Your mind should be especially quick and agile today, and your curiosity will be piqued. Your pursuit of intellectual interests could lead to group activities where you meet others interested in the same subjects. Taurus: Apr 20 - May 20 You might have a few projects in mind that you'll want to work on today. Your mind is especially quick and agile, and you have a lot of great ideas that can make your efforts turn out the way you want. Gemini: May 21 - Jun 20 Your mind may turn toward intellectual pursuits that you have been too busy to investigate. Today your mind is so quick and your curiosity so high that you won't resist even if other things interfere. Cancer: Jun 21 - Jul 22 Your mind is especially quick and agile, so you can take care of it efficiently, freeing you up for more enjoyable activities, such as getting together with friends or a partner. Leo: Jul 23 - Aug 22 Social events could put you into touch with intriguing new people who share your interests. This should be a gratifying experience. Virgo: Aug 23 - Sep 22 Today you might want to spend some time gardening. In fact, you might have a number of tasks to perform around the house and yard, but you may also have friends waiting.

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Kaieteur News

Libra: Sep 23 - Oct 22 Exploring your intellectual interests might get your curiosity going, although whatever knowledge you gain may bring up more questions than answers! You'll also want to get together with close friends or your partner to discuss this new information. Scorpio: Oct 23 - Nov 21 A number of young visitors could come to your home with news to pass on and information to share. You'll probably spend most of your day working around the house or yard, which you enjoy very much. Sagit: Nov 22 - Dec 21 Your phone may not stop ringing today. Friends and family may have good news and interesting information to share, so you'll want to spend a lot of time talking with them. Capri: Dec 22 - Jan 19 This is a great day to plan new projects. Your mind may be especially quick and full of ideas. Write down ideas that you can't put to immediate use so you won't forget them. Aquar.: Jan 20 - Feb 18 Your mind could be especially active today. Perhaps you'll discover a new talent you didn't know you had, such as writing, drawing or speaking. Pisces: Feb 19 - Mar 20 Your intuition has been especially high for a while now. You might consider a class or workshop that increases your ability to communicate.

GCB/DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL

Number 8, Bush Lot, Goed Fortuin and Patentia on winners row

The 2017/2018 Guyana Cricket Board/ Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited/ National Sports Commission/National Secondary School Cricket League (GCB/DMLAS/NSC/ NSSCL) continued with matches being played in West Berbice and on the West Bank of Demerara. At the Bush lot ground in West Berbice, Number 8 Secondary beat Fort Wellington Secondary by 9 wickets. Fort Wellington won the toss and elected to bat first, but struggled against the Number 8 Secondary bowling, only managing to scrape 112 all out in 28.3 overs of their allotted 30 overs. Number 8 Secondary bowler, Daniel Mosses produced a destructive spell of bowling to finish with the impressive figures of 4 for 19 from 6 overs. Budhram Lakram supported well with 2 for 6. In reply, Number 8 Secondary displayed great levels of maturity with the bat to reach 114 for the loss of just one wicket off 15 of their allotted 30 overs. Wazim Inshan made a constructive 53 and Noel Deodat a solid unbeaten 50. In the other match played at Bush Lot ground, Bush Lot Secondary trashed Ash Secondary by 223 runs. Batting first Bush Lot Secondary rattled up a massive 267 for 7 in their allotted 30 overs. Adrian Samroo slammed 109, with 19 fours and 1 six. Marvan Prashad and Lamesh Persaud contributed 37 and 31 respectively. Bowling for Ash Secondary, Saeed Baksh snatched up 3 for 31. In reply, Ash Secondary batsmen appeared somewhat overwhelmed by the mammoth task, as they seemingly sought to surpass Bush Lot Secondary score with a flurry of aggressive stroke play. However, their approach proved somewhat unstructured and reckless, as they inevitably crashed to 44 all out off 11.3 overs. Adrian Samroo returned with the ball to take 2 for 3 off 2 overs and Lamesh Persaud 2 for 12. Over at the Bellevue ground, in West Demerara, Goed Fourtuin won the toss and took first strike, but could only manage 70 all out off 15 overs. Viraj Harris was the most productive batsman with 25. Bowling for La Grange Asif Sameer took 2 for 7 and Mark Adams 2 for 4. In reply, La Grange found the victory target of 71, a great challenge, and eventually folded for a meagre 26. Bowling for Goed Fortuin, Nick Adams grabbed 6 for 7. Goed

Fortuin won by 44 runs. In the other match played at the Bellevue ground, Patentia Secondary won the toss and elected to bat, posting a competitive score of 137 all out off 20 of their allotted 30 overs. Satesh Basdeo made 42 and Emmanuel Benn 26. Bowling for La Venture, Vishal John took 3-35, Prince McFarlen 2-24 and Edward Cox 2-2. In reply, La Venture only managed to muster 28 before being all out off a mere 8.1 overs. None of the batsmen reached double figures. Bowling for Patentia Secondary, Wazim Rahaman grabbed 5 for 13 and Chetram Rajroop 2 for 4. Patentia Secondary won by 109 runs. Matches in the GCB/ DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL continues today with games in Georgetown. Freeburg Secondary will do battle with Central High School at MYO

Wazim Rahaman ground, St. Joseph’s High will oppose Queenstown Community High at GYO, while North Georgetown will compete with Tutorial High at the GNIC ground. All matches start at 11:00 hours.