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October 11, 2013 - Vol. 4 No. 39
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Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
General Elections is only way to solve Parliamentary impasse - Dr. Roger Luncheon
GTUC was not invited to OAS corruption talks - Lewis
Powering up the Court
BBCI justifies $50,000 per page for public documents …says process requires staff searching archives
GPL workers preparing to install the high voltage cable at the refurbished G/town Magistrates’ Court yesterday.
Murders surpass 100, gun robberies up 12%
Audit Office
City Council owes underqualified Kaieteur News $7.1M, yet sues for $6.2M woefully - Goolsarran
Bartica boat captain drowns
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Corruption will remain rampant unless General Elections is only way to it becomes intolerable - Ramon Gaskin solve Parliamentary impasse “Police can’t enforce laws because the Force is corrupt” - Dr. Roger Luncheon Financial Analyst, Ramon Gaskin is of the opinion that corruption cannot be suppressed in Guyana unless a consciousness is developed at a level where corruption becomes intolerable. He opined too that the Police Force is some distance away from being able to enforce laws against corruption as the body itself is corrupt. His views were solicited as a case in the United States of America, which bore a striking resemblance to the current situation in Guyana, ended in a former Mayor being sentenced to 28 years in prison. Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick was yesterday sentenced by a federal judge on his conviction for public corruption charges including bribery and extortion. Kilpatrick, 43, was held in custody since his conviction in March on two dozen charges that included racketeering conspiracy, mail, wire fraud, extortion and tax crimes. He was doomed by his own text messages, which revealed efforts to fix deals for a pal, Bobby Ferguson. Contractors said they were forced to take on Ferguson as a partner or risk losing lucrative deals. The government alleged that he in turn shared cash with Kilpatrick. Kilpatrick, who served as mayor from 2002 until 2008 fattened his bank account by tens of thousands of dollars and traveled the country in private planes. Agents who pored over bank accounts and credit cards said Kilpatrick spent $840,000 beyond his salary during his time as mayor. Defence attorneys tried to portray the money as generous gifts from political supporters who opened their wallets for birthdays or holidays. The government said Kilpatrick also tapped a nonprofit fund, which was created to help distressed Detroit residents, to pay for yoga, camps for his kids, golf clubs and travel. The former Mayor “spent lavishly at the helm of a conspiracy that damaged Detroit’s reputation and cost taxpayers millions of dollars,” Judge Nancy Edmunds said, adding that the sentence was intended to send a message that corruption won’t be
Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick
Financial Analyst Ramon Gaskin
tolerated. “A man with the charisma and ability of Mr. Kilpatrick chose to use his talents on personal aggrandizement and enrichment when he had the potential to do so much for the city,” Judge Edmunds said before imposing the sentence. Similar to that case of fraud and embezzlement, last year six senior Mayor and City Council (M&CC) officials were handed letters to proceed on leave by the Ministry of Local Government. That followed the discovery of fraud within the M&CC. The fraud was revealed through an investigation headed by Keith Burrowes and supported by Ramon Gaskin. The investigation was sparked by allegations against the then Town Clerk and Treasurer by the Auditor General. Gaskin had back then told the media that the affairs of M&CC were “all round nasty.” Important documents, including cheques could not have been accounted for. Among those was a cheque for the sum of $500,000 that was paid to M&CC for the sale of scrap metal “notably the incinerator.”
Gaskin’s report indicated that the cheque was never deposited into M&CC’s bank account. It stated that other monies paid to M&CC were never deposited. Gaskin had also discovered scrap metal fraud, fuel fraud and overtime fraud. M&CC had been under investigation many times before and Persaud said that the police would have continued investigations and worked closely with Gaskin. Gaskin told Kaieteur News yesterday that he sent his report to the Crime Chief, Seelall Persaud. He noted too that the police took a tenpage statement from him, but did virtually nothing with it. Gaskin noted that corruption exists worldwide, but is seemingly most tolerated in Guyana. He stressed that America, England, China, France, Germany “all those first world countries have corruption, but when it is spotted it is dealt with.” He said other countries don’t allow, tolerate or encourage corruption. Gaskin added that the police force has to be silenced as too much corruption exists in that body. A source in the (Continued on page 18)
Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, yesterday said that he believes that a return to General Elections is the only way to solve the impasse afflicting Guyana’s Parliament for the last two years. Dr Luncheon was at the time asked to respond to queries as to whether the ruling party has kicked into elections mode. He was speaking to reporters following his weekly postCabinet Press briefing yesterday at Office of the President. While not wanting to confirm a position, Dr Luncheon did assert that, “all parties reading the tea leaves properly would be responding appropriately.” T h e C a b i n e t spokesperson suggested that it would be better to solicit the views of the populace, as to whether an election would be the answer to the problems facing the country, but at a personal level, he believes that the return to the polls would be the answer. “I strongly believe that what has occurred over the first two years of the tenth Parliament, particularly in Parliament, it may not be a phenomenon that could be resolved any other way than by General Elections.”
Dr Luncheon said that the President has made his position public, in that there exist two options, “I (Donald Ramotar) do it or they do it.” Asked to respond to the possibility of the political opposition moving to Parliament to execute a vote of no confidence in the government forcing an election, Dr Luncheon stressed that the ruling party has never resorted to an election held under threat. “I would dearly love to see the observation continue, we are never usually forced into conditions of votes of no confidence,” implying that Government would want to call the elections on its own terms and not be forced by the Political Opposition. According to Dr Luncheon, “the move to general election has over the years in Guyana been well thought out and the pros and cons.” Quizzed further on the possibility of the no confidence motion being
Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon executed by the Political Opposition, Dr Luncheon said that, “the event of a no confidence vote doesn’t necessarily mean you have to get a majority, if a no confidence vote is called… but you can respond.” Dr Luncheon said whether or not the opposition has the numbers in parliament to execute the no confidence vote, government still retains the right to call elections even before such a motion is debated.
Friday October 11, 2013
Kaieteur News
Letters... Where your views make the news
The disturbing rise in firearm use by criminals DEAR EDITOR, We have noticed a significant increase in the use of small arms and light weapons (SALW) in criminal activities. Lamentably, this has profound impact on our society. It has resulted in the continued deterioration of public safety and security. Seemingly, we are overwhelmed – homicides, robberies, extortion and intimidation by gun touting citizens are the order of the day. Sadly, we are yet to see a “Supply Reduction/Demand Reduction Strategy” that can adequately address this issue. Empirical evidence has shown that the proliferation of illicit SALW is influenced by several socio-economic factors, especially narcotrafficking. Undoubtedly, narco-trafficking and illicit SALW are intertwined. Illicit SALW are needed for the protection of illicit drugs, turf and intimidation of competitors. In areas where narcotics are traded there are high incidences of gun related crimes. This trend is prevalent in Central America, South America, the inner cities of the USA and some Caribbean countries. Moreover, in Guyana the presence of illicit SALW in the community has resulted in a diffusion process; hence, the constant increase in gun crimes. We have stringent gun control laws, yet there is a constant flow of illicit guns into our country. This demand
is equally, driven by the inability of the state to guarantee adequate public safety and security. For example, in the hinterland regions, the law enforcement agencies are widely dispersed, thus, it is common for miners and farmers to acquire illicit SALW for personal protection from criminal elements and wildlife. This practice is also common in coastal regions where the emphasis is primarily on personal protection due to lackluster response by the police in times of emergency. Moreover, the procedure for firearm license application is bureaucratic, slothful and often disqualifies citizens who are genuinely vulnerable to crime the right to own legitimate firearms. Given the current resources that are available to the law enforcement agencies and the length of our national borders (5510 KM inclusive of 459 KM coastline) it is difficult if not impossible to effectively discourage the importation of illicit guns. Unfortunately, the premier law enforcement agency, the GPF has dedicated the least resources to law enforcement activities along the frontier and hinterland regions (E & F Division). These divisions comprise over 70% of the Guyana’ landscape. The police stations within the division are isolated and have minimal resources to effectively enforce and
From page 4 If a regime finds nothing morally and ethnically forbidding about criminal gangs usurping the authority of the Law Enforcement and the Courts, then that regime is ill equipped to deal with any criminal situation in a manner where due process and the rule of law remain sacrosanct. Murder is the unlawful killing of a human being by a human being with malice afore thought expressed or
implied. You have lost all moral and ethical groundings when you selectively cherry pick which murders are revolting, and this picking is influenced by who is the victim and who is the murderer. Mark A. Benschop
SWAT under the PPP would...
maintain law. Most glaring, the police have limited mobility to continuously project their presence throughout the Divisions. The role of the GPF is complemented by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the army, which maintains six bases along the frontier. However, the extent to which they are engaged in law enforcement activities are restricted by their role and authority. Furthermore, the downgrading of the reserve component of the GDF has denied the law enforcement agencies of a vital conduit for intelligence. The disposition of the reserve would have allowed for military presence throughout most communities; thus, enabling detection and interception of illegitimate activities. Notwithstanding the presence of the Customs and Trade Administration at various ports of entry, illicit weapons continue to enter Guyana by air, land and sea. There are over 120 authorised hinterland airstrips that are not properly monitored and most are isolated. In addition, hinterland roads and the intermediate savannahs can be easily converted to temporary landing zones for small and light aircrafts. In addition, the country’s geography offers numerous points along the borders where individuals can cross without being detected. Also along Guyana’s coastline small boats can access appropriate landing points in Continued on page 13
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 11, 2013
Letters... Where your views make the news
Marriott would not cover its interest cost DEAR EDITOR, With US$27M in proposed loans, the Marriott Hotel would not cover its interest payments. At 8.9% interest per year on Republic Bank’s syndicated loan, it would require US$2.4M per year to cover interest payment, an amount far exceeding the total profits of the entire hotel and hospitality industry in Guyana. Interest payment would be even higher considering that accumulated interest during the construction phase, at least 18 months, would have to be capitalized and added to the principal. The feasibility study submitted to the media at last resort shows unrealistic assumptions. It assumes an average occupancy of 62% and an average daily rate of US$150. With the two major hotels, Pegasus and Princess
( with aggregate room stock of 380 rooms) running at below 50% annual occupancy, and secondary boutique hotels at less than 40% on aggregate of 274 rooms, where would the additional traffic come from to realize 62% for an additional 197 rooms which the Marriott is bringing? The return on equity which Mr Brassington is projecting, US$8M at 22% return for the unknown investors and NICIL US$19.5M at 6.2%, would require additional profits of US$2.96M per year. In Guyana, electricity cost amounts to 25 to 35% of revenue, labour to around 15%, other direct cost and overheads another 15-20% depending on occupancy. In the first few months of the Marriott these percentages would be even higher, resulting in crippling
operating losses, with no cash flows being available to cover interest payments, as this outfit would not even realize 15% occupancy. This would rapidly lead to bankruptcy. It is no surprise that no credible investor showed any interest in this project. Those who deliberately, fraudulently and openly seek to deceive this nation must be swiftly brought to justice. Mr Winston Brassington and those behind the scenes to whom he reports are reckless with taxpayers’ resources. This is nothing but an indecent assault on the private sector and fraud on the taxpayer. The President of Guyana has a responsibility to this nation to mount an inquiry into this project and must do so without delay. Robert Badal, Pegasus Owner
DEAR EDITOR, Over the last few days, the Guyana Times, the Chronicle and other pro-PPP/C media have had screaming headlines about the acting Town Clerk’s move to sue the wife of Mayor Hamilton Green, Dr. Jennifer
Basdeo- Green, for monies she allegedly owes the Mayor and City Council. Mr. Green has already explained the real story; he has stated the facts about this issue. However, it appears as though the sensationalization
of that story was and is part of a wider plot to begin a campaign to embarrass, not only the Mayor, but all those who are critical of the PPP/ C Administration. Others need to be aware of this subtle plot by the PPP/C to shame their critics. Why else would the proPPP media rush to publish one part of the story without even attempting to show balance by seeking a comment from the Mayor. In any case, Guyana Chronicle ‘headline’ said: “Mayor’s wife heads list of delinquent tax payers”, yet in the list there was an individual who allegedly owed more than the amount a l l e g e d l y o w e d b y D r. Basdeo. It is clear, it was a Continued on page 11
Is there a plot to embarrass those who criticize the PPP/C Administration?
Friday October 11, 2013
Kaieteur News
Republicans offer plan to postpone any U.S. default (Reuters) - Republicans in the House of Representatives offered a plan yesterday that would postpone a possible U.S. default, signalling new willingness to end a standoff that has shuttered large parts of the government and thrown America’s future creditworthiness into question. Ahead of a meeting with President Barack Obama, House Republican leaders floated a measure to extend the government’s borrowing authority for several weeks that appeared to be free of the restrictions on healthcare and spending that prompted the crisis. Their plan would not reopen the government, as Obama has insisted, but Republican leaders said they would seek a way to do so at the meeting, which is scheduled for 4:35 p.m. (2035 GMT). The White House said it would consider the offer. For the first time since the government shutdown began 10 days ago, senior lawmakers from both parties predicted they would be able to resolve their differences in a way that would allow both sides to claim victory. Outside conservative
Barack Obama
John Boehner
groups like Heritage Action and the Club for Growth, who have pressed Republicans to resist compromise, said they would not punish those who voted for the new plan. “It’s all going to work out,” said Republican Representative John Mica of Florida. Investors seemed to be heartened by the developments. U.S. stocks indexes closed up 2 percent yesterday. The dollar hit a 2week high against major currencies and benchmark crude oil had its biggest gain in 6 weeks. The proposal is a significant shift for Republicans, who had hoped
to use the disruption to undermine Obama’s signature healthcare law and win further spending cuts. Those goals remain, but the Republican offer would at least push off the threat of default from October 17 until possibly the middle or end of November. One potential complication: the plan would prevent the Treasury Department from shifting funds around to postpone the day of reckoning further. The White House cautiously welcomed the offer, but reiterated that Congress must first reopen the government before budget talks can begin.
Ethiopian premier says Hague court has ‘double standards’ ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - The International Criminal Court has shown “double standards” by pursuing only Africans so far and should defer trials of Kenya’s leaders or take other steps so they can fulfill their elected offices, Ethiopia’s prime minister said yesterday. Hailemariam Desalegn was speaking before an African Union summit in Addis Ababa that will discuss relations with the court which has convicted only one man, an African warlord. The only others charged are also Africans. In an interview with Reuters, Hailemariam also said al Shabaab militants in neighboring Somalia were weakened despite their attack on a Kenyan shopping mall last month, but Western states and others needed to do more to crush the Islamist group. Ethiopia, which hosts the African Union headquarters, also currently chairs the 54nation body. Of its members, 34 states have signed the statute that set up the war crimes court in The Hague, which has drawn increasingly
Hailemariam Desalegn
strong African criticism. Hailemariam said the ICC was effective in pursuing the weak, but not the powerful. “The bigger you are and powerful you are this instrument does not work but the weaker you are and the instrument works. So that double standard has to be avoided,” he said, referring to the court’s failure to act beyond Africa. Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta’s trial, which starts in November, is the first by the court of a sitting
president, while that of his deputy, William Ruto, began last month. They are accused of orchestrating bloodshed after a disputed 2007 election, charges they both deny. Hailemariam, whose country is not a signatory to the ICC, said the court had rejected a request to defer the cases. He said Kenyans had elected Ruto and Kenyatta so it should ensure they can conduct their political duties. “We are not objecting to the court, we are objecting to the way it acts,” he said.
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PM hints at lowering CCJ judgment to shift way in which income tax threshold business is conducted in CARICOM
S T. GEORGE’S, Grenada - Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell has implied that Government will be reducing the income tax threshold to EC$36,000 per year as part of a home grown structural adjustment programme, that is expected to get the approval of the International Monetary Fund and other donors. H o w e v e r, Prime Minister Dr Keith M i t c h e l l h a s given assurances that the poor and marginalized will not be impacted. “Whatever happens, the majority of people will still not be paying taxes because most
people are not earning EC$3,000 a month”, Dr Mitchell told a meeting held in the parish of St John last week. At present, income tax is 3 0 % o n e a rnings a b o v e EC$5,000 per month. The 2014 budget will be delivered in early December and i t ’s expected that the new threshold will officially be announce at that time. He also said that Grenada is expecting about US$300 million dollars in debt relief as a result of debt restructuring program being designed. “If we get that arrangement settled, and we do what we are expected to do we could get as much as US$300 million dollars of debt relief over a period of time,” Dr Mitchell said. He to l d t h e m e e t i n g t h a t a s a c o u n t r y, sacrifices will have to be made by nationals, indicating that everyone will have to pay their fair
share of taxes. The Prime M i n i s ter is projecting major economic development for the country as a result of the restructuring program. “The monies we are getting could help people invest in more Small Business Enterprises, could help develop more educational activities for our children — more scholarships and training to prepare them to take the jobs that’s coming; could be put to health care so that when you go to the hospital you can get modern day treatment,” he said. He further explain that the money through the programme will also be able to help expand Agricultural activities by investing in technology and improving production levels and giving farmers more power to earn more money. Grenada, we are running Grenada, Carriacou and P e t i t e Martinique”, he said.
Georgetown: SecretaryGeneral of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, has called on CARICOM Member States that have not taken the necessary steps to make the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) their final court of appeal, to do so.Ambassador LaRocque was speaking during a conference at the University of the West Indies, Regional Headquarters in Kingston, Jamaica on Tuesday hosted by the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute for Social and Economic Studies (SALISES). The conference, which was hosted under the theme ‘Rethinking Regionalism: Beyond the CARICOM Integration Project’ sought to “engage participants in a sweeping review of the region taking account of how the complex problems of the contemporary reality are likely to shape CARICOM in the future”. He said the most recent judgement by the CCJ in the
Irwin LaRocque case of Shanique Myrie and the Government of Barbados, would cause a shift in the way affairs in the Community were conducted. “It has also cemented the Community’s rules-based system and continues to engender a high level of confidence” the SecretaryGeneral said of the judgement. He stated further that the decision was far-reaching, addressing decision-making in the Community, the nature
and effect of Community law, obligations of Member States and rights of Community nationals. The Secretary-General also noted that the ruling reinforced the critical role of the CCJ in the integration movement as a Court which will ensure that the Community’s decisions were adhered to. He told his audience that the CARICOM Secretariat was reviewing the judgment to assess the implications for the Community and its Organs. “I am certain that the judgment will be an historical contribution to the development of the Community integration arrangements,” the SecretaryGeneral said. The judgement issued by the eminent judges should give a considerable fillip to the movement for making the CCJ the final court of Appeal in the Community thereby completing the circle of sovereignty in the Region, Ambassador LaRocque said.
CSME project launched in Jamaica Jamaica Gleaner - A Caricom project backed by Canada was launched in Kingston Tuesday to drive implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The CSME aims to harmonise rules for the movement of capital, goods and services, as well as skills among the member countries of the regional trading bloc. Phase two of the CARICOM-Canadian International Development Agency Trade and Competitiveness Project (CTCP) aims to drive the process by “harmonising legislative and administrative systems and processes” among CARICOM member states. A key feature of the initiative, implementation of the Component 100 of the
CTCP, was the focus of Monday’s launch. A-Z Information Jamaica was tasked with reforming the administrative practices of member states to ensure uniformity and acceptance of best practices. “The whole movement of service providers has not been formalised,” said chief executive officer of A-Z Information Jamaica, Noel Watson. Professionals such as accountants and consultants who travel to Caribbean territories to work declare themselves to be on holiday, “because there is no sort of legislative framework under which we can pass through as a service providers”, Watson told Thursday Business. Under the CTCP, he said, passports will be stamped
with a certificate “so when you move to another country they will recognise you as a CARICOM service provider and give you access under that regime and you can actually go and work as long as you have a contract”, Watson said. To qualify for free movement, persons will need to hold a national skills certificate, and service providers must offer proof that they are certified to do the job, Watson said. The CTCP is expected to enhance the functioning of the services and labour markets through standardised licensing, certification and mutual recognition of licences and certificates, as well as bolster stakeholder participation in decision making and implementation of the CSME.
High alert sounded with suspected dengue fever death CASTRIES, St Lucia CMC - St. Lucia’s Health Ministry has put the country on high alert for dengue fever and has already reported one suspected death from the disease. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Merlyn Fredericks said her Ministry is awaiting confirmation that a child may have succumbed after suffering from dengue like
symptoms. Fredericks held a news conference on Wednesday, to express concern about the increased vulnerability of St. Lucians to the disease, following the discovery of an increase in the number of reported cases. She noted that while there is a reported increase, the situation has not reached epidemic proportions,
nonetheless the public is being urged to be cautious. “Dengue fever is endemic in St. Lucia, which means that we do have some cases year round, but mainly during the rainy season w hen the unsupervised collection of water becomes breeding ground for the Ades aegypti mosquito which transmits the infection.
Friday October 11, 2013
After maintaining a lowkey presence since the end of his presidency in November 2011, Bharrat Jagdeo returned to the political spotlight last weekend with appearances as one of the speakers at two of the rallies held by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) to mark the 21st anniversary of the return to democracy in Guyana. But the message of the former President at those rallies is not likely to find traction with the party’s supporters, and may in fact become increasingly irrelevant. While acknowledging the grievances of the party’s supporters, he urged them to look at the “big picture”. In fact a great deal of his focus at the rallies was about the “big picture”, the overall development that has taken place in the country which could be threatened if the opposition is allowed to get its hands on political power. Thus, the supporters were asked to look at the “big picture”. Of course that is what the PPP has been telling its supporters for 21 years - “look at the big picture.” These supporters have sent back their own message to the party’s leaders. These supporters have answered by saying that they have been looking at the big picture, but
Kaieteur News
it does not seem to be looking back at them. That big picture has shown progress in the country, uncontroverted progress. All have also benefitted from that progress. But for a government which emphasized poverty reduction as an economic objective, these supporters have seen a certain class gobble up most of the wealth that this progress has created. They have seen the large tracts of land on the East Coast which have been given out to friends and cronies. They have seen the increasing gap between rich and poor. The communities of supporters of the PPP have been neglected and this grieves them. These supporters, therefore, are not open to this chit-chat about looking at the bigger picture. They do not want to look any more. They have been made onlookers for twenty-one years. They want their grievances fixed before they look at the bigger picture. When these grievances are not fixed, the supporters of the PPP vote with their feet by staying away en masse from the polls, and also from the rallies of the PPP. The PPP mobilized extensively for the rallies held last weekend and yet at Lusignan, despite hundreds driving up to the rally site,
they were barely able to scrape just over two thousand persons, many of whom were children. It was the same at Tain. No wonder the PPP leaders on the platforms looked out on the gathering with worried looks. The concern about the turnout was all the more worrying because there was extensive mobilization for these rallies with activists going house–to–house in areas contiguous to where the rallies were being held. These residents were urged to come out. The activists know, first hand, what reception they got. The leaders of the party need to speak with these activists who will tell them the very opposite of what Bharrat Jagdeo was saying. The people are no longer interested in the “big picture”. They want the small things addressed, and addressed immediately. The people are not stupid. They are not fearful of APNU returning to power. They know that the mathematics will never allow this. The people know that the party with the largest number of votes always wins the presidency and the PPP will not lose the presidency. But unless the grievances of the people continue to be ignored, then the PPP will not have the majority it wants to push the other “big picture”
BBCI justifies $50,000 per page for public documents The Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BBCI) is claiming that the $50,000 ‘per record’ that it has asked Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram, to pay in order to access its records, is because it would require a staff member having to search its archives. Company Secretary Stephen Rambajan, and a man who described himself as the “CEO” but refused to give his name, yesterday initially resisted providing answers on the $50,000 request. Rambajan told Kaieteur News that the company cannot divulge any further information without permission from Ram. When contacted, Ram said that it was absurd for Rambajan to say that he, Rambajan, could not give out the information. “I cannot tell them who to talk to nor do I have to give permission for them to speak to anyone,” Ram said. Another call was then placed to Rambajan. However this time he said he could not speak on the matter and
…says process requires staff searching archives directed the reporter to question the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Berbice Bridge Company Inc. As instructed, the reporter called back and requested to speak to the CEO. The telephone call was transferred to a man who identified himself as the Company’s CEO. “I’m the CEO. Do you have to get my name?” asked the man on the other end of the line. According to the man, the Berbice Bridge has remained professional with Ram, and that it was he who should be the one querying why he has to pay that amount. It was maintained by Kaieteur News that once the information is out in the public domain, one has the right to question the Berbice Bridge Company. The “CEO” insisted that it was Ram who has the right to question them, not Kaieteur News. He then said, “I don’t
know if you would be quoting this, but if you must know, there is a cost that the BBCI has to endure because staff would have to be taken to look and get information from the archives.” The Berbice Bridge Company Inc. on Wednesday last, sent a letter to Christopher Ram demanding $50,000 for access to documents of the company. The fiasco began when Ram had discovered that certain documents filed by then Company Secretary Winston Brassington may have been deliberately falsified to conceal information on the stakeholders of the company. Ram told Kaieteur News that alternative sources of information suggest that one of the shareholders is a company headed by Brassington who also heads NICIL, the governmentowned company.
that has been painted and waiting to be unveiled. That other “big picture” depicts the major projects which the cabal within the leadership of the PPP so badly wants to become a reality. These major projects will each cost billions of dollars. But while the government is spending billions on projects which may not even create jobs for their supporters, they are awarding grants of one million dollars each to develop community grounds around the country. This is what aggravates the people. One million dollars cannot fence a playfield. Twenty-one years ago, even fifteen years ago, it may have been able to do so, but not today. The cost of building material has hit the roof, so much so that the poor can no longer afford to build even a dog pen-sized house. Since 2005, food prices have been increasing. The cost of a tin of powdered milk which the poor are forced to use is now around $4000. The cost of chicken is now over four hundred dollars per lb. A few years ago there was a big uproar when the prices spiked to $300 per lb. Today consumers would celebrate if
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the price dropped to that level. Snapper is over $300 per lb and at times is even more expensive than chicken. The prices of almost everything have increased and yet wages are being kept relatively stagnant. Does the government know what it costs to fill the lunch kits of poor children? The cheapest soft drink is over $100 and that has to go with something substantial if children are to be able to have a proper meal while at school. Yet the former President wants people, despite the grievances that they face, to look at the bigger picture. While the people know of the importance of those big projects that are so important to their leaders, they are
making a statement about what is important to them and their vote. By staying away from the PPP rallies in their numbers, they are indicating that these small grievances must be addressed, or at least there must be a commitment to addressing them, before these supporters will bother with the bigger picture which the leadership of the PPP, looking out from the balconies of their mansions, sees all so clearly.
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 11, 2013
THE HEIST OF GUYANA CONTINUES...
THE TALE OF BHARRAT JAGDEO AND HIS BEST FRIEND BOBBY RAMROOP Did You Know that 6.
Bharrat Jagdeo
NICIL headed by Winston Brassington advertised for “Expressions of Interest” to sell a small part of the Sanata Complex? After no offers were received, Bobby Ramroop was secretly approached and a deal was struck for the entire complex. Significantly, Guyana was kept in the dark as the new arrangement was never re-advertised, an illegality in itself. Guyana later woke up to the fact that this state asset was placed in the hands of Ramroop.
Dr. Bobby Ramroop
1.
Bharrat Jagdeo was sworn in as President in August 1999. Two months later, the sale of 60 percent of the Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (GPC) was approved for his best friend Dr. Ranjisinghi 'Bobby' Ramroop for $458M? Ramroop later purchased 30 percent more at a reduced price of $200M; it was originally set at $238M?
2.
Cabinet, headed by Jagdeo, approved a waiver of Procurement Procedures, directing the Ministry of Health to purchase drugs directly from New GPC now owned by his best friend, Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop, without any competitive bidding?
3.
Between 2005 and 2012, New GPC was handed contracts from the Ministry of Health totaling Billions of dollars, all of which were flagged by the Auditor General? During that time too, New GPC was handed separate contracts from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), again totaling billions all of which were flagged by the Auditor General? Many of these contracts saw Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop being advanced hundreds of millions of dollars before he was required to deliver any of the drugs and medical supplies?
4.
It was by accident that the nation discovered that New GPC headed by Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop sold to the Ministry of Health a tube of Ketoconazole cream for $1900, when this very cream was retailing in the pharmacies for $140? This discovery which was made recently also found that other drugs for the Ministry of Health were similarly heftily overpriced? Immediately after that exposure all records belonging to the Ministry of Health and to the Georgetown Public Hospital were under lock and keys? One can only imagine what took place from 1999 when Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop bought New GPC, and soon after, given the sole rights to import and sell the hog of the pharmaceuticals to the government?
5.
In November 2007 Govt. commissioned a new drug warehouse boasting state-of-the art systems? • That warehouse is in New GPC Compound at Farm, East Bank Demerara? When the Health Ministry commissioned a warehouse in Diamond this year, the previous one was left intact for New GPC? • Prior to the Diamond Bond, the Ministry paid Ramroop’s New GPC $18M yearly to store its drugs?
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Guyana School of Agriculture Eyewitnesses claim gold miner celebrates 50th anniversary was rude towards Minister Benn In honour of its Fiftieth Anniversary, the Guyana School of Agriculture, (GSA) launched its first magazine, under the theme “proud of our past preparing for our future. “ The publication features the contribution of the institution, in providing quality agricultural education over the past fifty years. The inaugural magazine launch took place at the International Conference at Liliendaal, yesterday in the presence several local and regional agricultural dignitaries. While Minister of Agriculture Dr Leslie Ramsammy noted GSA has earned the right to celebrate its accomplishments, he urged the gathering of students to nurture the vast capacity for a better future in Agriculture. “The Guyana School of Agriculture is a concrete example of a success story, it has produced leaders in the Agricultural sector in the Caribbean and various parts of the world, when GSA was established in 1963, the aim of the institution was to assist in changing the economic status of the country. Today, Guyana has risen to a middle income country.” The Minister urged students and members of the institution to assist in transforming the sector from standard livelihood to massive opportunities for entrepreneurship. “Guyana must not only be known as the breadbasket of the Caribbean, We are working to create an enterprise which will generate wealth and industrialise agriculture through innovative teaching.” Ramsammy challenged the students to be increasingly creative in fostering the spirit of entrepreneurship. “That’s the new brand of agriculturalist that we are creating at GSA, those that will be able to generate wealth…” the Minister added,
- launches first magazine as he announced that as an extra incentive it would mandatory that each student become a holder of driver’s licence before he/she graduates from GSA. The Minister also highlighted the importance of the young people and women in Agriculture as he made special mention of the first female principal of GSA, Ms Lynette Cunha, as one of the leading women in the sector. Chief Executive Officer of GSA, Brian Greenidge, said that the school currently has courses in business as well Agriculture. He said that the GSA magazine is likely to be an annual publication. “We are equipping the students with what is needed to create employment, not to look for jobs after they graduate. We are also collaborating with the University of Guyana to ensure that the students who graduate with a diploma from GSA will only spend two years instead four at the University to obtain their degrees.” Public Works and Transport Minister, Robeson Benn, pointed out that Agricultural development is directly related to the improvement of transportation and infrastructural techniques. Minister Benn is the son of former Minister of Agriculture, Brindley Benn, under whose authority, GSA was established. “Agriculture is critical to food security in Guyana and the Caribbean. Guyana is one of the only countries in the Region with a net food production.” Benn said that efforts are being made locally to improve the transportation system to better facilitate the growth of the Agriculture sector. In brief comments, Dr Chandra Madramootoo, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Science at Mc Gill University in Canada,
noted that his father crafted the first curriculum of GSA He is son of the institution’s first head, Harry Madramootoo. Dr Madramootoo encouraged the students to continue to add to the development of agriculture and vowed to assist in creating scholarships for students, in honour of his father’s memory. Former St Lucian Minister of Agriculture and past student of GSA, Ignatius Jean, noted the humble beginnings of the institution and commended Government for its vision in setting it up. Mr. Jean is currently a representative of the Inter American Institute of Cooperation for Agriculture. The Guyana School of Agriculture currently facilitates 217 students, five of which are from St Vincent. The institution has a main office located at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, with additional Campuses in Essequibo.
By Zena Henry Minister of Public Works Robeson Benn says that the young man who accused him of getting him locked up for heckling was disorderly and rude. To back up his story, the Minister pointed Kaieteur News to two eyewitnesses whom he said could vouch for his side of events. The Public Works Minister was accused by a 32-year-old gold miner, Andrew John Stone, of using his Ministerial influence to get him locked up overnight for predicting that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government will lose the next general elections. Specialist Engineer/ Chief Mechanical Engineer of the Transport and Habours Department Clinton Hazel told Kaieteur News Wednesday that he was a part of the team of persons visiting the Parika Stelling with Minister Benn last Sunday. Hazel said that while the Minister’s entourage was conducting their work, the young man while passing said to the Minister in a “very derogatory manner”, “Mr. Benn ya’ll gone lose de elections next time.” He said that the fellow “went
on” and made other rude and disorderly remarks towards the Minister before saying, “When ya’ll lose you gon get poor like me, wha’ you gon do?” Hazel said the fellow continued to raise his voice and behaved disorderly, “even when he went to join the boat, we could still hear him.” Hazel added that when the man (Stone) was addressing Benn he did not address him as Minister but was instead calling him “Robeson Benn and Benn....by his full name.” Hazel said he was surprised at the way Stone was addressing the Minister and suggested to the Minister that he “could not have citizens speaking to him in that manner,” as he was a representative of the Government. The Minister then got security persons at the Stelling to contact the police and they went to take Stone off the Bartica-bound boat. But when the Minister told Stone to get out of the boat he refused, and asked, “wha? Ya’ll gon shoot me?” According to Hazel, Stone’s behaviour was uncalled for. Another witness who requested to remain anonymous said that he fully supports the Minister’s position.
The former military personnel told Kaieteur News that it was about four persons including the Minister who were at the Stelling about salvaging a sunken tanker. He said that Minister Benn was briefing them about their work when the gentleman, with food in his mouth, walked by and said, “Robeson Benn yuh lying to de people, why you lying to de people?Ya’ll think ya’ll powerful, ya government gone get vote out.” The eyewitness said that the Minister ignored the young man but he continued to throw remarks at the Minister in a louder and disorderly fashion. Minister Benn he said, replied by saying, “Comrade, comrade.” The witness recalled the gentleman continuing to be loud and unmannerly; this time using indecent language. By this time, the unruly young man started towards the boat area, but was still very loud and abusive. The eyewitness continued that the Minister then decided that the gentleman was being too disruptive, and asked that the police be called in. He said since none of those present had a number for Continued on page 25
Is there a plot to embarrass those who criticize the... From page 5 direct attack against the Mayor, by putting his wife’s name in the open and alleging that she owes the sum mentioned. Guyana Chronicle, in particular, seems to be providing space for the PPP propaganda and misinformation. It has never reported anything critical of the PPP Government. That newspaper, if it can be truly called a newspaper, does not publish replies to letters if those replies are not in favour of the PPP/ C and their stories lack objectively and balance. It is an organ of the PPP. I am sure many other property owners, including members of the PPP/ C owe taxes, but their names will never be published or they will never be taken to court because they are above the
law and are expected to help punish the city by not paying their rates. So, the paying of property rates has been turned into a political sport or fun thing to shame those, who refuse to support the PPP/C. It is clear, that the acting Town Clerk, Ms. Carol Sooba is being used by the PPP/C as a conduit to embarrass the Mayor and the City, as a whole, she is achieving that, but she is also embarrassing her masters — the PPP/C. It is backfiring and people are now laughing, at a very clumsy action of the Minister of Local Government to appoint such a person to the top post at the Council. The PPP has never had control of Georgetown, so they believe that by beginning a campaign of shame and
embarrassment of their critics, and by allowing the City to rot with garbage, they can convince people that, the Opposition is unable to manage the City. But Guyanese are not stupid; they are seeing through what the Government is trying to do. They know that the PPP/C wants the city to look bad then blame the Opposition for it. It will not work. Instead of engaging in this type of petty politics, the President should be bold and show everyone that he is for democracy by assenting the four Local Government Bills, which would allow Local Government Elections and much needed reform. What we are seeing is an interesting dance by the PPP/ C. They know that they cannot go forward with the bills because they will not be able to do whatever they
please with Local Government bodies. They will have to comply with the laws and respect the rights of those local government organizations. I am sure that all Guyanese are optimistic and continue to hope for that change, in the circumstances of the Capital and their communities. However, the President’s posturing against the four local government bills is no way to run a government. It is undermining the authority of the Central Government and putting undue strain on local government bodies and neighbourhoods. The health of residents are put at risk by non-functional municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils, and there is a loud cry for change. James McDonald
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=== THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN ===
Mediocrity is the difference between civilized nationalists and backward leaders I once wrote in my column that the then student leader of UG, Jason Benjamin, after returning from a visit to UWI in Jamaica, said to me, “Freddie, boy if you see the student lounge at UWI. Man it is beyond anything anywhere at UG.” Jason was just ecstatic about the modern thing his eyes gazed upon. Last Saturday night, when AFC executive member, Michael Carrington, saw the Chinese ferry docked at Parika, he turned to me and said, “Freddie, boy, you got to see what the Trinidadians have that goes to Togabo. This thing is state-of-the-art, Freddie, ah telling yuh.” Both Benjamin and Carrington knew that what they saw made their country look primitive in their eyes. Friends of mine go to Suriname all the time and they would say to me, “Freddie yuh gat
to see dem people bridge.” These friends knew in their heart that three years ago we built a stupid-looking, ugly bridge. There are fools that would say, “Freddie, it makes life easier for Berbicians; we hated the slowness and hassle of the old ferries, we are grateful for the bridge.” Point taken. But my point is that why, if we are going to build a bridge over a river ten years into the 21st century, should we not give the Guyanese people a piece of modern construction that other countries have, including our small Third World neighbour, Suriname. When that bridge was declared open, my column pointed readers to the Second World War where military bridges were built that were identical to what is on the Berbice River. In the 21st century we constructed a bridge that is horribly bare without even a walkway or a lane for cycles. I sat next to Gordon Moseley when the Theatre Guild was finally refurbished and I told Moseley that there are countless high schools in Canada where I was educated, where the drama houses are a million times more modern than a country’s only theatre. There is the concept of modern life. Modern life does
not need endless skyscrapers like those in Manhattan, which Hong Kong and China have surpassed. Europe does not have a version of the Manhattan skyline, but most humans who see Europe would admit that though its cities do not have the highrises like Manhattan and China, they are the some of the most beautifully modern cities in the world. Modern life is not about physical reach only. It is about looks and comfort. You can build a small house and its design can be stupendous. People living in the 21st century want to see looks, images, comfort and designs that are modern. In London last week, the British Jewish community opened the first Jewish centre
in the UK. Pick up a copy of the latest Economist magazine and see how ultra-modern that building is. Why are we so mediocre in Guyana? Because our leaders do not have comparative standards from which to judge Guyana. It is outside the scope of this column to discuss what values are and how values are transmitted. Simply put, if all that you know in life is a particular value which is a negative one, then it is that negative value you will use to judge life. I found from experience that gypsy women accept that the man is superior to women and they accept that as a value. Gypsy women then judge relationships by that value which they have
learned their entire life. I saw for twenty-six years how mediocrity destroyed and ruined my alma mater and workplace, the University of Guyana. When you told the politically-directed Council and their lackeys how poor and unmodern were UG’s infrastructure and its outdated facilities, the response you got was that UG stands tall among the best in the world. What happened then is that as the years wore on, the government and its lackeys at UG judged the institution using the only value to which they were exposed – mediocrity. This is the problem Guyana has under the PPP. And I say in all honesty, I
Frederick Kissoon believe the PNC leaders rose above mediocrity. We don’t see this creative talent in the PPP leaders. A third rate school they praise as great. A silly, bare bridge is hailed as comparable with others in the world. A dying university is rated as one of the best in the Caribbean. And the story goes on. This is what mediocrity does to a country when the leaders have no modern standards by which they can judge the world.
Bartica boat captain drowns The body of a 49-year-old boat captain was yesterday discovered in his submerged vessel following a boat accident on the Cuyuni River in the vicinity of Kamaira Range. The dead man was identified as Carey Persaud, of Four Miles Housing Scheme, Bartica. According to a source, around 10:00 am, Persaud also
known as “Cha cha” along with his bowman and several passengers were in a speedboat proceeding along the Cuyuni River when the vessel stopped to offload passengers. The source added that because of the dangerous rapids that run directly dropping into each other, passengers would have to disembark from heavily laden vessels and walk around on a pathway on shore to either the top or bottom of a nearby falls. While passengers got back on the boat, it was reported that the vessel came into contact with a rock. This is when tragedy struck. Another source told Kaieteur News that after the accident the passengers then swam to safety along with the
bowman until a passing boat rescued them. Unfortunately, when the damaged vessel was brought up from under water, the body of Persaud was discovered with a life jacket still on. Based on reports reaching this publication, one of the straps on the captain’s life jacket became entangled with the steering of the 275 Hp engine and he was unable to free himself when the boat submerged. Meanwhile, according to a knowledgeable source, the Kamira Range in the Cuyuni River should be a no passing zone for boats owing to its treacherous nature. The source said “ the river can only be compared to what goes on in the Grand Canyon, USA, to give you a description ,but these
operators using the slang “Pace and Power” would court danger and death daily”. It was stated that in the early days a road was built on the northern shore of the river there for persons to use to pass by the area, and a skull and crossbones signs placed at the top and bottom of the Kamira Range. In a press release, the Director General of Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) Claudette Rogers expressed her condolence to Mr. Persaud’s family. “Any loss of life at sea is a blow to us” Rogers said. She also reminded individuals to adhere to safe boating practices by wearing life jackets to observe the rules of the sea. The incident is currently under investigation.
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Murders surpass 100, ‘Organized Crime Unit’ set to probe money laundering locally gun robberies up 12% ...as Guyana fails to comply with UN Security Council Resolutions Guyana is gearing to formally establish the investigative unit, the Serious Organized Crime Unit. The announcement came from Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, during his Post Cabinet Press engagement at Office of the President According to Dr Luncheon, the unit would be set up in the Office of the Commissioner of Police and will be tasked with the investigation of specifically money laundering and countering of terrorism. Meanwhile, it was announced too that Guyana’s failure to approve the amendments to the Anti Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill has prevented the country from being accorded recognition of abiding and implementing United Nations Security Council’s recognition. On Monday last, a sevenmember delegation from the UN Counter Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) visited Guyana to assess the country’s compliance with Security Council’s Resolutions and review the need for technical assistance. Dr Luncheon, in providing a review of the twoday meeting, said that the opportunity was used by the UN team to identify some of their concerns. “Quite a bit of them had to do with the legislative architecture,” said Dr Luncheon who reminded also that although terrorism is an offence in Guyana the enactment of the amended Bill certainly prevents Guyana receiving a compliant recognition from the UN. The Cabinet spokesperson told media operatives that during the two-day visit, the team engaged Government and its organs in the review of counter terrorism and its principles and activities in
Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon Guyana. He said the UN team met and were provided with representations by the counter terrorism agencies in Guyana. These, he pointed out, were principally the law enforcement and national security representatives. He said that because of the countering financing aspect of the visit, the UN team also met with the Financial Intelligence Unit along with money laundering supervisory bodies. Dr Luncheon said that the focus of the team was Guyana’s counter terrorism architecture and particularly its architecture as set up in accordance with international treaty and the UN Security Council’s resolutions on countering terrorism. He said the team placed special attention to the recognition of terrorist events, what constitutes a
terrorist event and the role of the national security bodies and “equally important our legislative instrument used to counter terrorism.” Dr Luncheon told media operatives that in meeting with the Guyanese professionals, the team was updated on the status of “our principal counter terrorism strategies, intervention which included the enactment of the Anti Money Laundering and Countering of Terrorism legislation. The UN delegation that visited Guyana included representatives from Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate CTED, International Maritime Organization (IMO), INTERPOL and the 1540 Committee. At the Opening Session held on Monday, the Head of the Delegation, Deputy Director of CTED, Weixiong Chen, recognized that Guyana was a party to 14 of the 18 International Conventions against Terrorism and to all major International Conventions on Human Rights. He had lauded Guyana’s tolerance of different religious beliefs and informed that Guyana’s position against terrorism was very clear and was appreciated by the UN. He advised on the need for a comprehensive and integrated national strategy specifically geared at counterterrorism, as this had proven in practice to be a successful approach in other jurisdictions.
There have been at least 100 murders in Guyana for the year and police have recorded a 12 percent rise in robberies where firearms were used. According to the Police Public Relations Department, there were 98 recorded murders at the end of September 2013. This figure matches the recorded number of murders for the same period in 2012. Of the 98 murders this year, 41 were of the disorderly type, 19 were committed during armed robberies, two were execution-type, and 13 were domestic related, while the other 23 are so far undetermined. However, statistics compiled by Kaieteur News reveal that there have been at least three execution-style killings. The victims include J a s o n Wi l l s , w h o w a s gunned down in Meadowbrook Gardens in February; Sheldon Cheddi, who was shot dead in Tucville and Shelliza Basir-Lall, was shot dead at Mambo’s Bar in
Kitty. The killing of Totaram and Bhajmattie Mootoo in their Turkeyen home in May also has all the signs of an execution-style murder. There have also been at least four other murders within the past ten days of this month. Three were disorderlytype murders while one occurred during a robbery at Hampshire, Corentyne. These deaths push the murder rate beyond 100. The Public Relations Department also stated that at the end of September 2013, robbery under arms has increased by six percent, with 798 reports compared to 751 for the same period in 2012. The statistics indicate an increase of 12 percent in the number of armed robberies involving the use of firearms and a three percent decrease in armed robberies where instruments other than firearms were used by the perpetrators. In relation to traffic, there were seven fewer road fatalities at the end of
September 2013 in comparison to the same period in 2012, with 75 fatalities from 72 accidents in 2013 compared to 82 fatalities from 71 accidents during 2012. The period January 01 to September 30, 2013, saw reductions in relation to the other categories of traffic accidents – serious, minor and damage. Twenty-seven pedestrians perished at the end of September 2013. In addition 12 motor cyclists, 11 pedal cyclists, 10 drivers, two pillion riders and 13 passengers of motor vehicles also lost their lives. Speeding continues to be a major contributing factor to fatal accidents and was the cause of 52 of the 72 fatal accidents recorded at the end of September 2013. Traffic enforcement by the police during the period January to September 2013 resulted in a total of 65, 527 cases being made against errant motorists. Of this total 16, 586 cases were for speeding.
The disturbing rise in firearm... From page 5 every village. Not only have the lack of resources, institutional capacity and limited intelligence facilitated the spread of illicit SALW, but also corrupt and inept public officials and law enforcement officers who enable the trade by failing to enforce the laws. Seemingly, in return for their services they are often rewarded by the traffickers. The current strategy to combat illicit guns is highly biased in favour of legal
actions, such as imposing custodial sentence or fining persons who breach the Firearms Act. However, the conviction rate of affluent citizens is extremely low; this probably is attributable to poor work done by the prosecution in return of financial favour or fear of being victimised. Given the aforementioned, the strategy should be more holistic and offer social and economic incentives to gravitate citizens from acquiring and using illicit SALW. Moreover, the
strategy should simultaneously seek to address both supply reduction and demand reduction and should include capacity building of law enforcement agencies, support for collection and destruction of illicit SALW, good governance, sound social and economic development programmes, and public awareness programmes on the danger of illicit SALW. L A Saul
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Twelve companies owe $6.2B in taxes to GRA The state’s Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has released a list of 12 businesses which it says owes over $6B in taxes and in which court judgments have been handed down. Pointing out that the list released does not include all the names of the companies of which judgments have been made, GRA’s Commissioner-General Khurshid Sattaur said COPS Guyana Limited, a security company, and Friendship Hotel and Restaurant Holdings Inc., which runs the Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut franchises, are among some of the biggest defaulters. The taxes include Pay As You Earn (PAYE) and Value Added Tax (VAT). The companies which GRA said it obtained judgments “over a number of years” included COPS Guyana Limited $433,066,071 (PAYE); Guyana Stores Limited - $354,184,590 (Corporate and other taxes);
Didco Trading Co. $59,257,183 (PAYE) Friendship Hotel and Restaurant Holdings Inc. $618,491,299 (VAT); Ian Edwards trading as Universal Janitorial Services $21,071,050 (PAYE); Interior Forest Industries Ltd $20,504,044 (VAT); United Associates Security and Domestic Services $14,584,694 (PAYE); Kayman Sankar Co. Ltd and Kayman Sankar Investment $12,367,411 (PAYE); Mazaharally and Sons Ltd. $11,753,080 (VAT); Don Gomes - $3,763,514 (PAYE) and Liana Cane Interiors $2,367,411 (PAYE). According to GRA, despite having obtained judgment against numerous taxpayers, it has encountered “significant difficulties” in enforcing court orders. “This hurdle has forced the GRA to take action to ensure delinquent taxpayers comply with the judgment orders.” The tax agency has since instituted winding up proceedings against companies including COPS (Guyana) Ltd, Didco Trading Co., and Friendship Hotel and Restaurant Holdings Inc. “A matter of paramount importance to the GRA is Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) which involves consumption tax in the amount of $5,292,000,000, ($5.29B) and was determined by the Court of Appeal in the GRA’s favour.”
GRA said that in the case of DDL, the soft drink company has filed an appeal and “distinct application for judicial review/prerogative writ in the High Court.” In the case of COPS (Guyana) Ltd, GRA pointed out that Sentinel Security Inc., another company, is conducting a similar business at the same location as COPS previously did, “and they continue the contracts previously held by COPS.” In addition to winding up proceedings, GRA has also instituted levy proceedings against other “delinquent taxpayers”. The body disclosed that Guyana Stores Ltd has failed to liquidate outstanding liabilities totaling $354,184,590. “The GRA has since demanded outstanding taxes.” However, the company has filed a number of court actions preventing GRA from demanding the outstanding taxes. “On the 12th July, 2013, the Honourable Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang determined the matter in favour of the GRA. This matter is currently being appealed by Guyana Stores Limited.” The authority said that it will not tolerate noncompliance with court orders “and all outstanding judgments will be vigorously pursued by way of levy, garnishee and distress proceedings and other forms of execution.”
- winding up proceedings started against KFC, COPS
GRA says that 12 companies owe over $6.2B in taxes and it is finding difficulties in recovering the monies.
Government ‘intolerant’ of school protests With the use of words the likes of “abominable” and “objectionable” Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon, yesterday warned that Government will not be tolerating the new dimension of protest actions that have occurred recently at a number of schools across the country. And in order to dissuade the perpetrators of such actions, Dr Luncheon disclosed that Government has made the decision to ensure that policies are enforced whereby those protesting could see themselves being charged and prosecuted. His remarks were forthcoming even as he hosted Post Cabinet Press briefing at the Office of the
President. Dr Luncheon told media operatives yesterday that Cabinet saw the need to discuss the new phenomenon of school protests, which according to him, have been “aided, abetted (and) instituted by leading members of the political opposition.” And even as he alluded to the involvement of at least one Member of Parliament in a school protest, the Cabinet Secretary hinted to the possibility of the continuance of such practices noting that “we all listen to the old people and they say ‘monkey see monkey do’...” However, he noted that “we have no reason to believe, certainly we have absolutely no reason to believe, that his action
represents extremism, represents a departure from convention, and is unlikely to be repeated.” But according to Dr Luncheon, tolerance to such activities will not be part of Government’s responses to school protests. “Tolerance doesn’t enter into the remit of the Ministry of Education and the Government,” he asserted, adding that “it is best to put in place mechanisms to avoid...prevent the repercussions or repetitions, than to address these matters any other way.” He underscored that the blanket approach that has been proposed and would be adopted by the Ministry under the guidance of Cabinet, in relation to protest actions, have certainly taken other matters of concern into consideration. According to him, while legitimate matters of concern in the school system will be addressed, such matters will be dealt with in the absence of the specific forms of school protests to which Cabinet has objected. “We had difficulties in accepting schools being invaded, schools being the subject of trespass, restriction on access by locking gates and in general, disrupting classes...I think those objections remain reasonable and have indeed prompted the Government’s and Cabinet’s decision,” said Dr Luncheon. Moreover, he noted that Cabinet will continue to be supportive of the Education Ministry’s efforts to discourage students from protest activities during school hours.
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Kaieteur News
Power of Attorney, Realtor charged with unlawful possession of drugs, ammo Yesterday saw a heated battle among two high profile lawyers, a Police Prosecutor and the Special Prosecutor attached to the Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU). Appearing before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court were Seenarine ‘Paul’ Singh and John Nedd who faced two charges of unlawful possession of narcotics as well as Illegal possession of ammunition. The court heard that on February 8 last, the duo had in their possession 36.334 kilograms of cocaine. It was also alleged that on the said date, at Lot 20Area ‘H’Ogle, East Coast Demerara, the duo, had in their possession, eighteen .223mm and nineteen .9mm rounds, without being the holders of a licence. The two men pleaded not guilty to the narcotics charge but were not required to plead to the ammunition charge since the matter was deemed indictable. Prosecutor Ramsahoye Rambajue, in open court, stated that the items were found during a raid at the property at Ogle, which was vacant at the time. The prosecutor added that further investigations were conducted after the drugs and ammunition were discovered and the file was subsequently sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice. He said that Singh was identified as the Power of Attorney of the Ogle property which belongs to his sister, Anita Chung, who currently resides in Canada, whilst Nedd functions as the Realtor of the said property. The submissions for the two accused were then made with regard to the ammunition and narcotics respectively. Attorney at Law Haymant Ramdhani rose to represent Singh who is the proprietor of Paul’s Trucking and Auto Spares and Guy-Braz Tours, and stated that there is not sufficient evidence to make his client liable; as the place was rented. Ramdhani presented the court with the Affidavit which binds Singh as the Power of Attorney of the said property. The defence attorney passionately objected to the allegations that were put before his client, maintaining his innocence. He then stressed that his client who resides at Lot 20 ‘B’New Road, Vreed-en-Hoop is merely the Power ofAttorney and does not occupy the property in question. Ramdhani further stated that his client on a monthly basis collects and deposits the rent given to him by Nedd on behalf of his overseas-based sister. However, Nedd’s defence attorney Clarissa Riehl emphatically asserted that her client merely functioned as the realtor of the building where the items were discovered. She emphasised that Nedd does not occupy the house, has never
Seenarine ‘Paul’ Singh (left) and John Nedd rented the said property for himself and was not in the vicinity when the items were discovered. Riehl reiterated that the items were found on an empty premises and requested bail for her client who resides at 160 Waterloo Street. Riehl further requested to have the matter held off until a credible witness could appear. Prosecutor Rambajue did not contest the lawyers’ submissions. With regard to the narcotics charge, Special Prosecutor Oswald Massiah, said, “Whilst Singh would have been deemed the Power of Attorney; investigations show that before Nedd’s involvement, there was another person who was responsible for the rental of the said property. But officers later found out that Nedd had some relation to the person and after some time he had communicated to Singh that he would be taking over. To this arrangement, Singh had no objection. Further, there is no record, legal or otherwise, which could indicate who the property was rented to.” “On February 8, a visit which was paid to the premises by the officers revealed that the property was without a renter. Officers after waiting for several minutes, forcefully entered the premises and a search was conducted which led to the discovery of the illegal substance and army ammunition.” Massiah thereafter objected to bail being granted based on the quantity of the narcotics involved and the likelihood that the defendants may not return for their trial. Ramdhani then sprung to his feet as he felt compelled to oppose the facts brought up by the prosecutor. The lawyer said, “No identification parade was conducted and no document was found that links my client to the said items that were discovered. My client’s fingerprints were not found on the ammunition and the drugs.” He also stressed that his client should be granted bail based on the blatant lack of evidence. Both lawyers reminded the
Magistrate that their clients have been cooperative with the police since the start of the investigations and are willing to abide by any condition set by the court; whether it was lodging of passports or reporting to the station. Massiah then stated that the defendants were cooperative, but only to a certain extent, as they are yet to provide the names of the persons who actually occupied the premises at the time. He also pointed out that the lodging of travel documents does not guarantee that a client will come to court. After the heated debate, Magistrate Azore stated that the matter will have to be transferred to the court of the Chief Magistrate for trial which will commence on October 14. Both defendants were refused bail and subsequently remanded to prison.
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Govt. involvement in no-objection to contracts will continue Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Roger Luncheon indicated Government’s involvement in the procurement of goods and services will continue. Yesterday, at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing Dr. Luncheon said Government has not given up offering its no-objections to the award of contracts, even though he had no update to announce. This role of the administration has faced severe criticisms from the Opposition Parties in the National Assembly, independent Financial Analysts, and members of civil society. In fact, Anand Goolsarran, former Auditor General said, “After 12 years, the Commissioners (of the Public Procurement Commission) are yet to be appointed, leaving observers to the inescapable conclusion that Cabinet does not want to relinquish its role in public procurement. That apart, there are credible allegations that contracts are not being awarded in a fair, competitive and transparent manner to ensure the best value for money is achieved.” There are allegations that contractors are pressured by corrupt officials into giving kickbacks to secure lucrative contracts. According to Goolsarran, the World Bank has estimated that as much as 20 per cent of financial resources are lost in some developing countries, especially with regard to infrastructural works as a result of inefficiency, substandard work, inflated contracts and kickbacks. “In the Guyana context, I
- Cabinet Secretary suspect that the figure of 20 per cent is a fair assessment of what is taking place here,” he stated. Goolsarran said while Guyana awaits the appointment of the Commissioners, the public procurement system has a significant gap in the sense that there is no oversight of the operations of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). He explained that Cabinet cannot exercise that oversight responsibility since it only offers no objection to contracts in excess of $15M and can only return a contract to the NPTAB for further review on procedural grounds. With the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission, the role of
Cabinet will be phased out. However, Government wants to amend the law to preserve Cabinet’s current role. According to Dr. Luncheon, “Government insists in the mature dispensation where procurement is concerned, that Cabinet must have a role”. “A role that we are willing to concede does not extend beyond offering our noobjection it was there and still is. It’s a minimum position for those in the administration collectively accountable and responsible for the affairs of the state to have an input in the awards of contracts,” he said.
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GPOC rebrands bill payment system
by Lin-Jay HarryVoglezon (American In’l News Service) At a simple ceremony last Wednesday morning at the Georgetown headquarters of the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC), in the presence of Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, sponsors and others, the corporation launched INSTAPay, recognized its outstanding employees, and honoured the academically outstanding
children of its employees. INSTAPay is the new name given to the bill payment and money transfer services conducted by the GPOC because the process is now using the electronic and internet capabilities of Roraima Financial Services. This means that within 2 to 5 minutes after any payment at any GPOC branch, Guyana Power and L i g h t C o m p a n y (GPL), Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T), Guyana Water Inc, (GWI),
Institute of Private Enterprise Development ( IPED), Courts, etc. could access information about the payments. They would have timely knowledge of who paid, when, where and how much. According to Fonseca Peters, of Roraima Financial Services, one can make payments at any post office and expect similar efficiencies even if it lacks a computer. In such cases the GPOC will utilize its call centre to process the information quickly. In addition, the regular and same day money orders processed through the corporation on behalf of Laparkan and others would be accelerated, as would money transfers to the remotest areas of Guyana at competitive rates. GPOC with its 67 locations, with at least one in every region, has the widest network of offices in Guyana and the capability to serve people everywhere. As emails and e-cards reduce the volume and rate of traditional postal a c t i v i t y, p o s t o ff i c e s around the world are introducing postal financial services, e-commerce centres, parcel and logistic services for their survival. In 2012, GPOC’s handling of mails, bulk postage and bill distribution accounted for only 23% of its income.
Friday October 11, 2013
Audit Office woefully underqualified - Goolsarran “Issues of national importance given superficial treatment, avoided”
TIGI President, Anand Goolsarran There is only one qualified accountant in the Audit Office of Guyana, and incidentally, this person is the wife of the Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh. This was told to the visiting team from the Organisation of American States that was conducting an assessment of Guyana’s anti-corruption measures, by Former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran. In his presentation on Tuesday last in his capacity as President of Transparency Institute (Guyana) Inc., Goolsarran lambasted the fact that the current Auditor General, Deodat Sharma, is not a qualified accountant. He said that Dr Singh’s wife is also the de facto head of that Audit Office and is directly responsible for the audits of entities such as the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) of which Dr Singh is the chairman. He told the body that the serving Auditor General, Sharma “is not a professionally qualified accountant although he is required to supervise the work of Chartered Accountants in public practice contracted by him.” Given the range of entities to be examined by the Auditor
General’s Office, Goolsarran said that the mandate is very wide and that “the task is highly complex technically, professionally and otherwise, requiring the services of a highly trained, skilled, competent and respected person with a proven track record to serve as Auditor General.” Goolsarran pointed out that “unlike several other countries, there are many State-owned/controlled companies, statutory bodies and public corporations for which the Auditor General has audit responsibility.” In pointing out another quagmire that emanates as a result of Sharma’s inadequate qualification, Goolsarran noted that the Companies Act requires the auditors of companies to be issued with practising certificates from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana before undertaking the audits of companies. “Since he is not a professionally qualified accountant, the Auditor General is not in possession of such a certificate…Regrettably, neither the Constitution nor the Audit Act 2004 specifies qualification requirements for appointment as Auditor General.” Goolsarran further stated that the effect of not having a suitably qualified person to serve as Auditor General, is the inability to attract and retain suitably qualified and trained persons to serve under him or her. “This would therefore have an adverse effect on the quality of the work undertaken and the reports issued.” He said too that at present and to a large extent, this is true of the Guyana Audit Office, as many of the findings
Auditor General, Deodat Sharma are routine, resembling those of an internal audit. “Several significant issues of national importance are given superficial treatment or are avoided in their entirety.” As such the TIGI President recommends that the Audit Act be amended to include qualification requirements for appointment as Auditor General. The person to be appointed, according to Goolsarran, should possess at least a professional accounting qualification such as the ACCA (UK), CPA (USA), CGA (Canada). “He or she must also have appropriate experience in an external audit environment at a very senior level, preferably at the level of a partner of a reputable chartered a c c o u n t i n g firm…Alternatively, in addition to having an advanced degree in one of the related disciplines – accounting, finance, economic and public management – the person should be an expert in public finance and administration.” He said in both situations, it would be imperative for the Audit Office to be staffed with professionally qualified accountants at the senior management level.
Police trainee accused of burning colleague with iron Alwin Jones was yesterday brought before a City Magistrate at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court where he was made to face an assault charge. Magistrate Fabayo Azore read the particulars of the charge which stated that on September 27 at Felix Austin Police College, the 18-year-old trainee officer, assaulted his colleague, Lenford Beete, 21, causing him actual bodily harm. To the allegations, the defendant pleaded not guilty. Court documents revealed
that on the said date the defendant and his colleague, who are known to each other, were in their individual rooms preparing for a training session. Beete then left his quarters and went over to the defendant’s and requested to borrow his electric iron. The assailant refused, but the victim insisted on borrowing the item and proceeded to remove the iron from the ironing table. Jones became annoyed and snatched the iron from the complainant’s hands.
He then took the iron which was previously plugged in and had retained some amount of heat, and pressed it several times against the back of the complainant. The matter was subsequently reported and the defendant was arrested and charged. Nevertheless, the defendant was granted bail to the tune of $25,000 and is expected to return on October 14 before Chief Magistrate Priya Beharry for report and fixture.
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GTUC was not invited to OAS corruption talks - Lewis “…every taxpayer has a say in how our affairs are managed”
Lincoln Lewis
Gail Teixeira
The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) was not invited to make a presentation to the Organisation of American States (OAS), Mechanism for Follow-Up on the Implementation of the InterAmerican Convention against Corruption (MESICIC) team, which wrapped up its mission to Guyana yesterday. Lincoln Lewis, who serves at the helm of the GTUC, yesterday said that the trade union body sees the act of not inviting it to make a presentation to the OAS team as “deliberate.” According to Lewis, “even though Gail Teixeira is Guyana’s representative, hers is not the prerogative when it comes to civil society to determine who comes before, or is heard by this body.” Teixeira was tasked by Government with the responsibility to facilitate the three-day meeting. Lewis is adamant that GTUC is a stakeholder in society and “our right to exist and participate in the national ethos is not only enshrined in Universal Declarations, International Conventions and Guyana Constitution, but spelt out in the Labour Law.” Lewis said that the right to existence for the GTUC is taken seriously and “we will
not be silenced or shut-out from any issue that impacts o n t h i s n a t i o n ’s a n d citizens/workers’ wellbeing.” He believes that corruption is not only money- and nepotismdriven, it also manifests in the violation of laws and transgression of people’s rights. Lewis in a missive to the media yesterday said that the workers (taxpayers) of this country don’t get to decide who spends their money by virtue of an established principle “in our system of governance where our taxes go toward a collective pool.” He said that it is expected from the funders of the State’s coffers that the State will “judiciously invest in our wellbeing, pay our bills, and we, the people, will remunerate those managing our affairs.” According to Lewis, “Individually and collectively every taxpayer has a say in how our affairs are managed and we are treated… And the GTUC shall be heard.” He did say that the GTUC has managed to present to the visiting team “our concerns regarding the government’s efforts, or lack thereof, to put systems in place to reduce and ultimately eliminate corruption.”
Corruption will remain... (From page 3) Auditor General’s office told Kaieteur News that the contents of an investigative report done by that body warranted prosecution “but…” Contacted yesterday, a police rank expressed, “We can’t stop corruption.” The rank said that efforts to fight corruption go down the drains “when you lock up a man, a big one would call and say loose he…so when offered (a bribe) you gah tek and let the person go on their merry way because you end up being the fool when you have to loose them and the same money you refuse or li’l more going to the bigger boss.”
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Academic and social all-rounder admitted to the Bar Delicia has also been involved in a number of international organizations, dealing with child advocacy and health care. Also holding a significant interest in sports, Delicia is a former member of the National Swimming Team (1997-2005) and represented the country regionally. She is a past member of the National School of Dance and a current member of the National Dance Company, representing Guyana at Carifesta X in 2008. She is also the holder
Attorney-at-law Delicia Helwig (left) with Madame Justice Dawn Gregory By Zena Henry In a very emotional ceremony yesterday, 23year-old Delicia Helwig of Prashad Nagar, Georgetown, had her petition to the Guyana Bar Association delivered by Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo and received by Madame Justice Dawn Gregory. The third of five children born to Patricia and Desmond Helwig, Delicia was described as a funloving, outgoing and active young woman who dedicated her time to academic, social and personal development, while contributing to charitable organizations. She was noted for her 10 subjects achieved at the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC). After Bishops’ High School, the new attorney attended the University of Guyana s tudying International Relations. She went on to LL.B. Preparatory Law, before achieving a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) and passing
with credit. At the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago where the young woman attained her Legal Education Certificate (LEC), she was awarded the Phelps and Co. Prize for best performance in Civil Practice and Procedure. She went on to win three other awards for best performance in Trial Advocacy, the Principal’s Award for Advocacy and the best performance in Civil Procedure and Practice 1 and Civil Procedure and Practice II by a Guyanese student, 2012-2013. In her persistence to achieve, Delicia worked at v a r i o u s o rg a n i z a t i o n s including the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), Digicel, and several legal outfits. The young lawyer is also a certified Peer Educator and has been actively involved with the country’s Youth Parliament; taking up the post of Shadow Education Minister and winning the prize for “Best Presentation of Arguments.”
of a SHO 1st Dan black belt in Shotokan Karate from the Japan Karate Association, 2001. Modeling, public speaking and lending a hand to youth groups are among her other interests. But great achievement does not come without hard work, especially when one comes from humble beginnings. E l a t e d a n d overwhelmed, Delicia tearfully explained to the gathering of family, friends, well-wishers and now colleagues of the legal
fraternity, that it was a hard road to travel but she had made it. Her emphasis was placed on the financial hardships her parents faced in their upbringing, and how they were able to use their experiences to mould her to strive for excellence. Recounting her father’s days of walking to school barefoot and her mother’s struggles between seven motherless siblings caused tears to stream down their faces, and by the time she completed her impromptu speech, more than half of the
courtroom were wiping away tears. While no definite law firm is in mind for the young lawyer, she hopes to make waves in her new profession. Delicia has taken a liking to criminal law and is hoping to make a difference in that area, while maintaining the prestige and standard of the Bar, as she was encouraged to do. Making it her own; Delicia is guided by Aristotle’s quote, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is not an act but a habit.”
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City Council owes Kaieteur News $7.1M, yet sues for $6.2M Legal action against Kaieteur News by City Hall has been condemned by Mayor Hamilton Green, who believes this is a malicious act perpetrated by the Town Clerk on behalf of the Government. Mayor Green was responding to queries about the indebtedness of his organization to Kaieteur News. Publisher of Kaieteur News, Glenn Lall, explained that for the period 2007 to present City Hall owes Kaieteur News $7.1M for advertisements published. By July 2011 Kaieteur News was forced to send a statement of arrears to City Hall as a reminder to honour the debt. Lall, whose newspaper has been exposing corruption and conflict of interest between Government officials and their friends, finds the legal action surprising since there was an arrangement between City Hall and Kaieteur News to offset payments. According to City Hall, Kaieteur News owes some $6.2 million for taxes on the building that houses the newspaper at 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown. Because City Hall was not forthcoming with payments on the outstanding accounts Kaieteur News made the arrangement to offset the payments, an agreement to which City Hall readily agreed. The Mayor said that he found it surprising that Attorney-at-Law Euclin Gomes, who is not a lawyer assigned by City Hall, issued the legal action for the Council. Gomes operates out of Attorney General Anil Nandlall’s private chambers. He was a former City Councillor on the GGG ticket. According to Green, the legal action initiated by Town Clerk Carol Sooba is a reflection of her behaviour at City Hall, which led to Councillors moving two noconfidence motions against her. However, Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Ganga Persaud has refused to move
From page 11 the police, the Minister’s driver was sent to get them. During that time, Minister Benn reportedly went down to the boat area and asked the young man why he was behaving in that manner and that his behaviour was very bad. The reply was, “Wha you gon do? You gon kill me, y’all think ya’ll bad.” It was at that point, the eyewitness continued, Minister Benn asked the boat operator to hold the boat for the police to
Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall
Town Clerk Carol Sooba
Mayor Hamilton Green
NTN Proprietor, Anand Persaud
her because of her propensity to be at their “beck and call”. Green acknowledged the payment plan worked out between Kaieteur News and City Hall. He said that similar arrangements have been made with other companies. He said Sooba has refused to do the decent thing of exchanging cheques, a solution which has been proposed for years. He said this is the latest attempt of Government exploring its options of targeting persons who are critical of their wrongdoings. The vindictiveness of this act is reflective in Sooba singling out those who should be pursued for outstanding payments, he added. According to Green, several friends of the Government, for instance Anand Persaud, the proprietor of NTN and Reeaz Khan, owe the city millions of
dollars. He said this assault ignores that Persaud has two buildings, one on Charlotte Street and the other at Brickdam, both of which rake in heavy sums. He pointed out that recently his wife, Dr. Basdeo, who had objected to the valuation of her property for years was singled out by City Hall. Green said Dr. Basdeo and himself were unable to have Council act on the objection. City Hall, through the Town Clerk is waging a smear campaign against those critical of the government. The fact that the council resorted to Gomes suggested that the other lawyers did not want to be engaged in a campaign of selective persecution. Government is using Sooba to execute its dirty work.
take the man away. The police officers were briefed by the Minister before the gentleman was asked to disembark the boat. Even then he refused until other persons on the Stelling encouraged him to go with the police officers, the witness said. Minister Benn said that the young man was very unmannerly and the police had to be called in. Although eyewitnesses say the man had on several occasions used indecent language, Benn said the
youngster cursed under his breath while exiting the Bartica boat, but he did not hear. Someone told him that the man had used abusive language. As far as he is concerned, Minister Benn said he thought the police would have placed Stone on a bench for some time to teach him a lesson and then let him go. Stone was locked up for some 24 hours earlier this week before being placed on $10,000 bail. He was released without being charged.
Eyewitnesses claim gold miner...
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FOR SALE Ford F150 spare parts, new and used- Call:685-2584 Airless paint sprayer, generators, welding sets, air compressors, wet & dry vacuum, Robin grasscutterCall:227-8519/653-4287 Pitbull pups fully vaccinated - Call Johnny: 628-9884 2 power washers, tools, electric guitars, music sets & speakers (lots more items)Call:227-8519/653-4287 Pork wholesale only $300 per LB- Call:266-2711/6094594 WHOLE SALE PLUCK CHICKEN- CALL:6760931 170pc of HMD video for PSP games & movies- Call Simone 227-0501/626-5317 Pure bred German Shepherd puppies, fully vaccinated and de-wormed- Call:6822148/655-8674 1 CAT standby 3306, 194 KVA 3 phase 60 cycleCall:641-8472 1- 5705 John Deere tractor, 1- Rome plough 20 dish, 11630 Bedford truck articulated with 2 trailerCall:693-4596 One complete Sawmill operation with large spaceContact Swamee 614-1466 Dell laptops & desktops complete computers from $45,000 Futuretech call: 2312206 One new model Tacoma, one 12ft Aluminum boat & one 14ft Aluminum boatCall:220-1981/641-6162 Hifi Sound Connection: Car Audio, Pro Audio, complete sound system powered boxesCall:610-1230/673-5828 1 Toyota Carina 212 excellent condition- Call:629-9511 or 625-9511 Wages envelopes $7- Call: 671-0601
Kaieteur News
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
VACANCY
LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY $19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
Generac generator 15kva, portable, key start like new $550,000 cash -Tel 227-3939, 621-4000
One professional seamstress & one frame builder- Call: 610-7005/ 219-1342
Spare for washing machine, microwaves,fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc call:225-9032,647-2943 Potting Soil and quality cow mould- Call: 656-1326/678-0058 1 German Roller & 1 Hauler Truck (Low bed)Contact:681-2995 1 Honda ATV 450 bikeCall:626-3817 Video recording spy pen $6,500- Call:671-6177 Attention Miners!! On sale: Insect treated mosquito nettings for hammockCall:690-5461 Pitbull pups- Call:683-6674 Blackberry cell phone model (9650). Excellent condition (like brand new)- Call Keith 624-6464 1 Gold land @ PotaroCall:628-7605 Redge Vac 6.5 16gals elet, carpet steamer, cleaner & steamer, tile cutter, air conditioners and 3 computerCall:686-5625 One trawler for sale with engine and gear box. Going cheap!- Contact:642-6780 1 CBR 600cc 2004 model, excellent condition- Call:2663966/669-5401 Engine for sale 6.9 Cummings for truck or other needsCall:615-3023 10 acres land next to creek @ Splashmins, Linden Highway. 2002 Toyota Allion carCall:687-1392 9 weeks old pit bull pups. Ideal for breeding, security and show purposes- Call:6489770
Live/pluck chicken-Call:6504421/220-9203
Energy saver bulbs/ power tools- Call:680-6374
Diving Suits- Call:265-3449/ 613-5158 2- M132 Lavarda Combine, 1- 22RB Dragline, 3- Pressure pump 4x3 for gold field, 12640MF tractor 4WD, 1385MF tractor- Call:627-0447
New 06 Tacoma lights front/ rear- Call:641-1127
One AT192 Toyota Carina. Price negotiable- Call:6841512/614-2477
Friday October 11, 2013
2010 4-KTA, 35-G4, 1000 KW60HZ, 480V- 1.800 RPMCall:609-8989 Stihl 51 chainsaw in top condition. Price $60,000Call:694-6823
1 Food cart stand on wheels, can be used to sell anything for sale $170,000- Call:6909534
Diesel generator, 3 cylinder lister pitter (England) key start, 10kva with exhaust and tank $500,000- Call:227-3939/ 621-4000
Games PS2 $900, PSP $900, X-Box 360 $2600 & PS3 $2600- Call:672-2566 Original Games- Call:6722566
3 Clarke forklifts 2000lb, $300,000, 3000lb, $600,000, 4000lb $800,000 lifting capacity- TEL: 227-3939, 6214000
New Kenmore stainless steel French-door-bottom refrigerator 25cuft and 30" Gas stove- Call:629-2404/6238172 Diesel Generator silent 28kva SDMO John Deere engine missing Fuel Pump, Panel & Aver $1M cash- Tel 227-3939, 621-4000 73" 3D TV Mitsubishi Like new $500,000 cash 227-3939, 6214000 60’ Antenna (Mass) for Radio, TV, Cellular to be removed with all cables, brackets $750,000-TEL: 227-3939, 6214000 Playstation3 complete $75,000, new Acer Laptop in box $55,000, Wii system complete $60,000 Tel: 227-3939 Samsung Galaxy Note 2 new $110,000, iPhone 4S $90,000, Blackberry bold 4 $70,000, iPhone 4 locked $50,000-Tel: 227-3939
24 Hour East Coast Guyoil needs night pump attendants, salesgirl & office assistantCall: 663-1751/684-2838 (1) Customs Clerk (3) subjects CXC (English, Mathematics & must be computer literate). Due 11-1013. Contact 669-6874/6823481/ windsortechhomes @gmail.com One general domestic. Must be able to prepare vegetarian meals. Apply @ Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling Vacancy exists for security. Apply at Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling Vacancy exists: Two sales representatives (male or female) & one driver. Must complete secondary schoolCall:227-1042 FOR SALE/RENT American Pool Table - Call: 277-0578
LAND FOR SALE
TO LET
50 Acres estate land at Grant Belfield lower Pomeroon river- Call:771-5403 or 6718100 D.D’Oliveira
Latchman Racktoo Office Complex: 43 Croal street Stabroek- Call:225-3269/6219741
Waiakabra, Linden Highway: 1,409’x403’ or 13.73 acres. Concrete house thereon. 1,100 feet from HighwayCall:619-4152
One bedroom apartment at ‘B’ field Sophia at $40,000 per month- Call:661-3801
At Blankenburg public road, W.C.D. 38x150 & 39x150 $16M each- Call: 666-3619 Transported road side house lot @ Plantation Paradise, West Coast Berbice. No reasonable offer will be refused-Call:327-5314 Double lots located at 5 Rosetta, Canal #2, W.B.D. Price $10M neg- Call: 689-3413 Prime transported rice fields all @ Plantation Paradise West Coast Berbice. No reasonable offer will be refused-Call:327-5314 132X48 Land for sale @ 80 Garnett Street, Campbellville by owner- Call:680-0072/6195267 Parfaite Harmonie with foundation $1.3M- Call:6757292 MASSAGE The Gent’s Spa: Let beautiful sophisticated masseuse pamper you: New masseuse available- Call:657-5979
Furnished Apartment to rent @ ‘AA’ Eccles- Call:686-5625 Harmony Inn: Apartments fully furnished, airconditioned apartments: As low as $5000 per night- Call: 668-0306/ 602-8769/694-7817 Business place to rent @ Charlotte Street- Call:691-1198 Fully secured concrete bond 87x31ft (private compound) @ Mc Doom public road back of Police OutpostCall:233-0570 Fully furnished Vacation home with all amenities- Call during working hours- 227-1218 Fully furnished short term apartments, Eccles call: 679-7139 Campbellville $90,000$140,000, Atlantic Gardens US$900, Lamaha Gardens US$1200, Kingston US$900Call Diana 227-2256/626-9382 2 bedrooms bottom flat apartment for rent @ 4th St. Diamond N/Scheme, E.B.DCall:615-3023
WANTED Salesgirl required for Indian clothes store, late shift 3pm to 9pm. Must live around Sheriff Street- Call:604-2164 One three bedrooms house to rent- Call:617-4055 Contract Cars at Gem’s TaxiService. Call:667-9013 Porters to work in Grocery stall, Stabroek marketTel:226-9800/683-9500 Lady tailor required for Indian Garie store, Sheriff Street. GY$25,000 per week salarycall:604-2164 1 Handyman, 1 watchman, 2 labourers, 1 clerk and workers to work on farm (must be 30 years and over)- Call:265-3586
WANTED 2 Persons to work in kitchen- Please call 2336765 between 18hr-19hr One domestic, live in & live out babysitter from 12pm8pm- Call:225-4492 Experience Jetmen, marakmen, operators & cooks for interior- Call:6715149 Security guards to work with mining firm- Call:642-7963/ 226-9768 1 Electrician to do domestic work and some industrial ideas- Call:692-5175 1 Handyman to work in yardcall:692-5175
One experience mechanic to work in interior must know to repair minibus & solid DEF vehicle- Call:681-6044
Bouncers and bartenders (2yrs experience) apply in person between TuesdaySaturday 4pm-6pm @El Club Latino- Call:616-2902
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One hire car driver from West Bank or West Coast Demerara- Call:616-0111
One experience driver to work in interior age 25 and up- Call:681-6044
Boat captain & partner to live in and work in Essequibo River Resort-Tel:226-0240
Male or female for wash bayCall:670-3973 Contract cars- Contact City Taxi Service- 660-1100/2267150 One waitress 18-25yrs. Kindly Contact 650-3680 between 9am-3pm Live in waitress- Call:643-9007/ 697-2978 One live in maid age 24-45Call:697-2129
One female general worker for shift system (8hrs)- Call:2286337
Salesgirl required for Indian Shop Sheriff Street. High salary. Any age- Call:604-2164 Urgently needed 1 plot of land to buy in Parfaite Harmonie, Eccles & Herstelling- Call:6757295/218-5591 Painters/Carpenters Work with Limited Supervision with own tools Tel: 225-0188/2256070 One handy man for shop in the Interior, age 20-25 $80,000Call:642-0176 One cook for the interior, age 20-35 $80,000- Call:642-0176 Experienced dispatchers & drivers @ Princess HotelCall:265-7076/616-5419 Attractive live in waitressCall:327-0252/674-4665 Contract cars @ Atlas Taxi Service, South Ruimveldt Gardens- Call:661-3043
EDUCATIONAL A P / S AT / C X C / I G C S E : English classes, personalized tutoringCall:612-4821 (after 4pm)/ 274-0437 (after 7pm) Institute of Academic Supremacy East Street forms 1-5. Adult CXC classes: Maths, English A, Science & BusinessCall:226-8468/ 690-5008 Earn a certificate in foundation of Home nursing, child care, Geriatric nursingCall:692-2063/613-0803/2260763 CAR RENTAL First Choice Car Rental: Cars as low as $5,000 per day- Call:668-0306/6947817/225-6337 Wings Car Rental- Call:6431131 (Continued on page 31)
Friday October 11, 2013
Kaieteur News
Refusal to appoint Legal Counsel violates Parliamentary democracy - Opposition Parties
AFC Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan Opposition Parties in the National Assembly believe the non-inclusion of a Legal Counsel within Parliament Office structure is a violation of Parliamentary democracy. On Monday at PPP/C’s press conference, Public Service Minister Jennifer Westford said she prefers to increase the number of staff of the Ministry of Legal Affairs that provide legal support to Parliament than for the Public Service Ministry to create a new structure within Parliament Office for a Legal Counsel. She said currently there is no establishment or position as a Legal Counsel in the structure of Parliament. Westford added what exists is a Chief Parliamentary Counsel and his deputy, who are attached to the Attorney General Office, Ministry of Legal Affairs. “If there is need for any increase in staff for that department, I am prepared to consider increasing the staff for that department but I cannot see the Ministry creating a new structure within the Parliament office for legal Counsel,” she said. Without being officially told by Westford that a Legal Counsel would not be appointed, Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs told Kaieteur News Tuesday that he was unable to comment on the matter. He asserted on July 18 a letter was dispatched to the Minister requesting approval for the appointments of a Legal Counsel, Researcher, and Typist, which would have led to the creation of a legal division within the Parliament Office. An acknowledgement receipt of the letter was not received and a reminder letter was subsequently sent. Isaacs enlightened that the request for the creation of the post was based on a decision taken by the Parliamentary Management Committee. He said the Minister’s decision now puts him in a tighter spot since he has no legal background and would be tasked with reading the Bills before and after they are
approved in the National Assembly. Isaacs said currently Parliament is dependent on staff of the Attorney General’s Chamber for assistance. “The Bills ought not go to the Attorney General’s Chamber and now I am not getting anyone to help,” he added. The Opposition Parties Alliance For Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) - who have been calling for Parliament to have a Legal Counsel, find the Minister’s comments distasteful. Both parties have demanded the appointment of a Legal Counsel since the Chief Parliamentary Counsel is not readily available to the Opposition. Leader of the AFC Khemraj Ramjattan sees the Minister’s decision as a subversion of Parliamentary independence, contributing to the continued tension that exists in the National Assembly. He said blocking the procurement of a draftsperson when there is a deficit is a malicious act by Government to maintain dominance in Parliament. Ramjattan explained that the Chief Parliamentary Counsel, Cecil Dhurjon, only provides assistance to Opposition Members of Parliament in Select Committees. In addition, Dhurjon only takes instructions from the Attorney General leaving the Opposition without legal assistance in the drafting of Bills. He said Government wants to neutralize the Opposition’s capacities. According to Leader of the Opposition, David Granger, given the difficulties the Opposition had since the Tenth Parliament in drafting Bills, APNU had taken the decision to emphasize the need for the appointment of a Parliamentary Counsel. Echoing Ramjattan, he said the Parliamentary Counsel is not available to the Opposition. He added the National Assembly would have to deliberate on the matter since it has nothing to do with the Minister, but Parliamentary democracy.
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CRFM, CTA strengthen cooperation on fisheries development
Michael Hailu, Director, CTA (left) and Milton Haughton, Executive Director CRFM During the 12th Caribbean Week of Agriculture held in Guyana, the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) and the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which provides an overall framework for cooperation between the two organizations on projects and other activities for the ultimate benefit of fisheries development in CARICOM/ CARIFORUM countries. The MoU was signed by Milton Haughton, Executive Director of CRFM and
Michael Hailu, CTA Director. Based on the mandates and comparative advantages of the two institutions, the MoU covers cooperation areas related to: development and implementation of policies and strategies in fisheries aquaculture and related sector; climate change adaptation and disaster risk management; strategies for mainstreaming precautionary and ecosystem approaches in fisheries and aquaculture management; review, adoption and implementation of the International Guidelines in Securing Small-Scale Fisheries; development of fisheries value chains, including intra-regional trading in fish and fish products; combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Other areas include maximizing the potential of
ICTs for information and knowledge management, capacity building as well as facilitation of joint learning and strengthening interregional cooperation between the Caribbean States and the ACP regions. CTA and CRFM agree to work with third party organizations, including government agencies of member countries of both organisations, in addition to private entities, so as to improve adoption and use of research findings, resources mobilization, access to sources of relevant information and knowledge, and outreach and impact The signing took place in the presence of ministerial and technical officials from CARIFORUM countries, as well as, the executives of key agricultural institutions who are attending the 12th CWA.
Friday October 11, 2013
Guyanese shot by Venezuelan soldiers…
Bodies bore multiple bullet wounds The bodies of Orlando Fitzpatrick and his son Jesse were buried yesterday in the North West District, but relatives have vowed that this will not be the end of the matter and are demanding that local authorities conduct a proper probe into their deaths. The father and son were shot dead a week ago by Venezuelan soldiers while they were returning to Guyana from a gold mining location in the neighbouring Spanish-speaking country. The men’s relatives are convinced that they were robbed and then executed by the soldiers, who then alleged that they were killed during an armed confrontation. The men’s embalmed bodies were handed over to relatives in Venezuela last Monday and were brought to Guyana, following a grueling 36-hour journey to the North West District. According to a relative who had a good look at the bodies, 17-year-old Jesse Fitzpatrick had what appeared to be several bullet holes in his head along with other marks of violence, while his father was shot in his back. There is a strong suggestion that the men were not killed in the boat they were travelling in as is being suggested by others. Relatives believe that there was an attempt to burn the bodies, judging from their condition. They say they do not trust the post mortem report on the bodies which is written in Spanish, and are calling on local authorities to exhume the remains and conduct a further examination. “We are not satisfied with the way the Guyanese authorities are treating the matter. Even if we have to
Jesse Fitzpatrick
Orlando Fitzpatrick
petition the President to use his office to look into this matter we will,” a resident of the district told Kaieteur News. He stated that Guyanese living in the North West District are more subject to the law of Venezuela than their own country. “These people (Venezuelan soldiers) does come over hey and walk. Right now dey gat about 10 Venezuelan trawlers wha does bring fuel, park up over here,” the resident said. He said that one detective who is stationed in the area only looked at the coffins but never even glanced at the bodies. “It is only fair that, to clear any doubt, the Guyanese authorities get actively involved in investigating this matter” another resident said. The police had indicated that they are seeking the assistance of Interpol in the matter. “We don’t know what caused the shooting, but we have reports that one of the Venezuelans was injured,” Commissioner of Police Leroy Brumell had told this newspaper on Sunday. Crime Chief Seelall
Persaud had declared “It did not occur in Guyana, according to our information.” Another section of the local media had reported that Orlando Fitzpatrick and his son were shot dead by the Venezuelan soldiers after carrying out a robbery spree in the area. But relatives and friends dismissed that theory and even the Crime Chief indicated that he had no such report. “I am not aware of that and we don’t have the official position of the Venezuelans, all that we have is information from relatives that they were shot,” the Crime Chief said. Reports reaching this newspaper stated that yesterday’s funeral was very emotional, with scores of persons turning up to pay their final respects. A friend who travelled from the city to attend was livid at the cruelty meted out to Fitzpatrick and his son. “Dem body real damage up, dey really shoot dem up. When you see I could cry fuh a friend you could imagine how I feel. How people could be so cruel?” he asked.
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Pakistan’s Malala wins Nobel Peace Prize Strasbourg (France) (AFP) - Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teenage activist nominated for Friday’s Nobel Peace Prize, was awarded the prestigious Sakharov human rights prize by the European Parliament yesterday. To thunderous applause announcing the prize, the parliament’s president Martin Schulz said “Malala bravely stands for the right of all children to be granted a fair education. This right for girls is far too commonly neglected.” The parliament’s vote for Malala amid a shortlist of three nominees “acknowledges the incredible strength of this young woman,” Schulz added. The 16-year-old has become an emblem of the fight against the most radical forms of Islamism. She was shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban on October 9 last year for speaking out against them and has gone on to become a global ambassador for the right of all children to go to school. Her old school closed Wednesday to mark the first anniversary of her shooting. She was taken to Britain for treatment in the wake of the attack and now goes to school in the central city of Birmingham. Feted by world leaders and celebrities for her courage, she has addressed the UN, this week published an autobiography, and could become the youngest ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate on Friday.
Pakistani student Malala Yousafzai speaks to the media after being greeted by United Nations Secretary General Ban-Ki-Moonat the UN headquarters in New York. (AFP Photo) In an interview with Pakistani radio station City89 FM this week she said she had not yet earned that accolade. “There are many people who deserve the Nobel Peace Prize and I think that I still need to work a lot,” she said. There was no immediate response from Malala, currently in New York, to winning the 50,000-euro ($65,000) Sakharov prize. It will be handed to the teenager at a ceremony in Strasbourg
on November 20. Past winners of the prize include South African antiapartheid hero Nelson Mandela and former UN secretary general Kofi Annan. Malala first rose to prominence with a blog for the BBC Urdu service chronicling the difficulties of life under the rule of the Taliban, who controlled Swat valley from 2007 until they were kicked out by the army in 2009.
Pakistan rearrests ex-president Musharraf over Red Mosque deaths ISLAMABAD - (Reuters) - Pakistan rearrested former president Pervez Musharraf yesterday after accusations that he was personally responsible for the deaths of more than 100 people when he ordered commandos to storm the Red Mosque in 2007. The operation at the radical mosque in the capital of Islamabad followed a week-long standoff between the mosque’s supporters and security forces. The rearrest came after Musharraf had been granted bail in three other cases and his lawyer said on Wednesday he was cleared to leave the country. A complaint against Musharraf in the Red Mosque case was registered
last month on the orders of a judge. Police superintendent Mohammed Rizwan said Musharraf had been accused but not formally charged. Musharraf, then head of the army, took power in a 1999 coup but was ousted by popular protests led by the country’s judiciary. He went into exile in 2008 but returned
earlier this year in an abortive attempt to launch a political career. His arrest broke a tradition that Pakistan’s powerful army chiefs are never arrested, even after they leave office. The military has ruled Pakistan for more than half of the country’s history.
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Skeete Twenty\20 cricket - South E’bo Three venues retained for GFF/ Rising Star, NOC Seniors and Banks Beer Premier League Invaders Masters record wins Organisers of the 2013 / 14 GFF / Banks Beer Premier League have retained three venues for Sunday’s second round of matches in the competition. A total of six matches will be played and the fixtures are as follows: At the Buxton Community Centre BV/Triumph take on Santos from 14:00 hrs and that will be followed by the clash between Buxton United and Winners
Connection. Over at the Den Amstel ground - Young Achievers tackle Mahaica Determinators at 14:00 hrs and Den Amstel entertain Grove Hi Tech at 16:00 hrs. In the other two games scheduled for the day, at the GFC ground - Alpha United battle NA United from 18:00 hrs to be followed by BK Western Tigers versus Rosignol United at 20:00 hrs.
Friday October 11, 2013 ARIES (MAR 21 - APR 19): Instead of dragging on with something old, tired, and worn out, why not start something new? If you refuse to give up on a project that's doomed to fail, you'll be in for a long, frustrating road ahead. *************************** TAURUS (APR 20 MAY 20): Social engagements will be your saving grace. Without them, you may be confused and sad about issues that are reaching a climax. In some form or another, you're being asked to make some major transformations. *************************** GEMINI (MAY 21 JUN 20): The intensity should increase around an issue regarding love and romance. Friction is building. Unfortunately, this tension may be unavoidable. *************************** CANCER (JUN 21 - JUL 22): Let your heart shine. Love surrounds you like a beautiful pink cloud, and you can't help but attract people to you. Take romance to a higher level with someone really special tonight. You'll find that whatever you give will come back to you tenfold. Your aura glows brightly with emotion, so let it light your way. *************************** LEO (JUL 23 - AUG 22): There's a great deal of transforming energy in the air that you should harness and capitalize on. " When tomorrow comes and there's a huge meal of pizza, soda, and fries, suddenly the diet once again starts "tomorrow." Use the powerful energy of today to break out of this habit and make a real change in your life. ************************ VIRGO (AUG 23 - SEP 22): You may experience writer's block in every sense of the phrase. Even if you don't consider yourself a writer, for some reason it may be difficult to get even the simplest words down on paper.
LIBRA (SEP 23 - OCT 22): Action should be your main priority, especially when it comes to love and romance. You may not be too concerned about what sort of action you take. *************************** SCORPIO (OCT 23 NOV 21): A surprise in love and romance is on its way to you. Things are coming full circle, and the investment you made in this realm is finally paying off. *************************** SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 - DEC 21): Getting along with others may prove challenging today, Sagittarius. The planetary aspects can have you isolating yourself. You might feel impatient and easily annoyed. If this is so, stay solo if you can. *************************** CAPRICORN (DEC 22 JAN 19): Know what you're getting yourself into, especially if it has to do with love and romance. You may be like a fly on a tree branch, carefully inspecting the beautiful spider web at your feet. *************************** AQUARIUS (JAN 20 FEB 18): Your heart may be hurt by misfortunes that have befallen you. Thinking about times past is just pulling up buckets of tears from a well. Don't keep doing this to yourself. It's time to move forward. *************************** PISCES (FEB 19 - MAR 20): You're filled with joy! There's a tremendous wave of love coming your way. Everything involving romance could be taken to extremes. An extreme in the direction of love and boundless creativity means that at some time there will be a dramatic swing in the opposite direction.
Sankar grabs 6 -13 Rising Star, New Opportunity Corporation (NOC) seniors and Invaders Masters recorded victories when play in the Edward Skeete and Family Tw e n t y \ 2 0 c o m p e t i t i o n continued last Sunday in South Essequibo. At Pomona, Rising Star defeated Jaguars by 76 runs. Rising Star batted first and scored 158-4 off their allocation of 20 overs on a lively pitch and heavy outfield. Rovin Dusraj made with 38 not out (4x4,2x6), while Karran Lakhan and Otis Roberts chipped in with 24 each and Cort Jones 23 (1x4,1x6); Shazaad Alli claimed 2-30. Jaguars replied with 82 all out in 17 overs. Azeem Kamal and Shameer Khan were the only batsmen that showed fight with 17 and 14 respectively. Ravindra Singh 2-8, Roberts 2-14, Rohan Ramdass 2-16 and Navindra Singh 2-16 were the main wreckers. At New Opportunity Corps (NOC), the host senior team trounced Aurora by 39 runs. NOC seniors took first strike and posted 163-9 in 20 overs with Brandon Kaboose leading the way with 46 (5x4), while Anthony Adams supported with 38 (3x4,4x6); Irfan Ali captured 2-11 and Rishad Ali 2-21. Aurora were bowled out for 124 in 20 overs in reply. Rayad Jagdat scored 35 (3x4,3x6) and Anand Maniram 29 (3x4). Joshua Paul snared 3-25 and Adams 2-24. At NOC at 13:30 hrs, Invaders Masters beat NOC
Juniors by 35 runs. Invaders Masters managed 127-5 in 20 overs bating first. Robin Persaud top scored with 37 and Ramnarine Deocharran made 17. Left arm spinner Akienie Adams bagged 5-13 for NOC Juniors who mustered 92-8 in 20 overs in response. Alec Etwaroo made 21 as John Sankar grabbed 6-13. Golden Fleece got a walk over from Cullen.
The competition continues on Sunday with NOC Juniors hosting Golden Fleece 09:30 hrs, Invaders Masters facing Eldorado at Golden Fleece at 09:30 hrs and Golden Fleece battling Eldorado at Golden Fleece at 13:30 hrs in zone A. In zone B, Jaguars will play Aurora at Pomona at 09:30 hrs and Rising Star will clash with NOC seniors at Pomona at 13:30 hrs.
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Petra Organisation / Courts Pee Wee Schools Football Competition
Red hot St. Pius aiming to maintain umblemished record
By Rawle Welch St. Pius, one of the unbeaten teams in this year’s Petra Organisation / Courts Pee Wee Schools Football Competition will look to maintain their umblemished record against Winfer Gardens who they face tomorrow when play resumes, at the Thirst Park ground. The West La Penitencebased team has looked in impeccable touch since the start of the tournament and emphasised the abundant talent the team possesses after scoring an upset win against last year’s beaten finalist Tucville, who they defeated last week by a 1-0 margin. That win followed a convincing performance against St. Sidwell’s in their opening clash in the first round of the competition that has now established them as one of the favourites to advance to the latter stages of the competition. In the first encounter of the day, St. Margaret’s, who drew 2-2 with Enterprise in a nail biting game, will look to gain full points in their clash against St. Ambrose, winners against Green Acres last week. The second game of the
day will feature Enterprise and Green Acres and both teams wil be looking to secure full points to improve their position in the points standing. Enterprise had to settle for a share of the points last week, while Green Acres failed to gain a point in their loss to St. Ambrose in their last encounter. Tucvile, one of the favourites at the start of the tournament will want to reestablish their position in the pecking order after what many considered a minor setback last week, so they will no doubt be looking to gain maximum points against St. Sidwell’s, who won their last fixture after losing their first match. North Georgetown then take on South Ruimveldt and this encounter should be an exciting affair with the latter looking to gain full points after having to share the spoils last week against J.E Burnham, while the former will be aiming to secure the allotted three points for a win to add to a similar amount they received from a walkover given by West Field. The West Field versus J.E Burnham should see the
Kitty-based team gaining maximum points against their opponents who have not looked that impressive to date, but could spring a surprise, especially at this level. The St. Stephen’s and Stella Maris matchup is a hard one to predict the outcome since even though both teams lost their previous encounters they gave a good account of themselves. Success versus St. Angela’s is another intriguing encounter that should go all the way to the wire since both teams are tough and determined units who display those characteristics until the very last minute of the game. West Ruimveldt and St. Gabriel’s clash should see the former come out victors judging from their record, but as was stated earlier, at this level consistency among certain teams is hard to predict. Sophia versus East La Penitence should provide no surprises since the latter has been among the front runners in terms of pure exhibition of class and skills and the East Georgetown-based side will most likely find the going difficult against the imposing
East Georgetown-based unit who’ve looked peerless so far. Defending champions Marian Academy, who dropped their opening game against East La Penitence, but entered the points table in a walkover win against Sophia will engage Redeemer, losers and winners last week. The early prediction seems to favour Marian Academy, but they will have to produce a solid performance on the field to validate this forecast. Ketley who committee a plethora of errors in their drawn encounter with Success last week will look to rebound in their clash against F. E Pollard who squeezed past St, Angela’s 3-2. They looked good so far and the Charlestown-based side will have to put away whatever chances they create to overcome the usually tenacious Kitty-based team. The support of the Head teachers, teachers, parents and sponsors have been excellent to date, while the fans have turned out in their numbers and tomorrow’s third round matches are expected to enjoy similar support. Kick-off time is 10:00 hrs.
Amazing Taylor stars in Series triumph KINGSTON, Jamaica – Stafanie Taylor made a superb century and took four wickets as she took West Indies Women to a series triumph over West Indies Women on Thursday. West Indies won third and final match by 95 runs to take the series 2-1. Playing in front family and friends at Sabina Park, the 22-year-old played a number of sparkling stroke as
she ended on 135 not out (148 balls, 14x4, 2x6) which guided the Windies to 238-6 after they won the toss and decided to bat first. The offspinner returned to take four wickets for 35 runs from eight overs as the New Zealanders were bowled out for 143 off 43 overs. Taylor ended the series as the leading allrounder with 182 runs and 11 wickets and was an easy choice for Player of the Series.
Federer dumped out of Shanghai Open by Monfils (Reuters) - Fifth seed Roger Federer was dumped out of the Shanghai Open, losing to Frenchman Gael Monfils 6-4 6-7(5) 6-3 in the third round on Thursday, while top seed Novak Djokovic progressed. After dropping the first set, the 17-time grand slam title winner Federer was on the brink of going out in straight sets at 3-5 down in the second, and later 3-5 down in the tie-break before winning four straight points. Monfils then broke the Swiss former world number one in the fourth game of the decider. It was Monfils’s second victory over Federer in eight meetings, and leaves the Swiss battling to reach the end-of-season ATP World
Tour Finals for the 12th consecutive year. “I knew that I choked on this forehand at 5-4 (in the tiebreak),” Monfils told the tour w e b s i t e (www.atpworldtour.com). “Then I changed my ideas because I was maybe nervous, too. Even (though) I was tired, I tried to play more aggressively sometimes, going more for my shots and it worked. “It’s a good win for me. I feel a bit sorry for him because I know he’s running for London. But it’s tennis. He’s going to have more opportunity (in) those weeks coming up.”Monfils will play top seed and defending champion Djokovic in the quarter-finals after the Serb defeated Fabio Fognini of Italy 6-3 6-3.
Bush Lot United Turf Club not pleased race meet had to be rescheduled
By Samuel Whyte The Bush Lot United Turf Club (BLUTC), which has been rated as the most improved horserace club in Guyana over the past few years, is not happy with how things materialized over the last few weeks leading up to their horserace meet, which was scheduled for the 29th September and which had to be postponed and eventually rescheduled because the police at the last moment refused to grant permission for activity. In an interview with Kaieteur News, members of the executive laid blame on Government and the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA) for their ineptitude and for what occurred. Treasurer and coordinator of the BLUTC Lakeram Buddy Sukdeo said the members expressed their disappointment in how they were treated, stating that a number of forces
Coordinator Lakeram Buddy Sukdeo combined to deny them permission to stage their event. The veteran horse owner, who has been racing horses in various parts of North America, especially Canada, before returning home, said that, the BLUTC is left at a loss to find out who gave permission for the meet on the 6th October, stating
that the event was not even on the calendar of events of the GHRA. He said that the BLUTC is blaming the GHRA for double standard. ”They know the rules; they make the rules, one of which states that major race meets should be held at least two weeks apart, yet permission was given for a meet one week after the BLUTC meet on the same coast. How could the GHRA overlook something like that?” he queried. Sukdeo stated that from the BLUTC point of view They feel that it was a setup by a number of forces to get their race meet postponed. “The organisers know very well that a number of horses would have competed at the BLUTC event and all would not have been able to run the following week. As such various factors were deliberate put in place to have their race meet postponed.”
Listing some of the hurdles they had to cross, Sukdeo stated that – firstly, for some strange reason they were denied permission by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), for no reason what so ever, although the body had given them permission on numerous occasions before. They had to battle to get over that hurdle and then at the last moment the police dropped a bomb shell on them by refusing permission. The BLUTC feel that the PPP organisers in their own selfish ways had a lot to do with the scenario, because at the last moment they realized that they had to organise something and realizing the fix they were in, used a combination of activities to thwart them of their meet at the last moment. Sukdeo said that the members feel that they should have been consulted or contacted long before so that
something could have been worked. He is blaming both the GHRA and the PPP as being equally culpable for the situation. According to Sukdeo, when they questioned t h e reason for the hindrances, they were told to tell ‘Donald’ (Ramoutar). The BLUTC fells that it is dictatorship and suppression of a small club. they Although w e l c o m e t h e G H R A’s belated intervention in granting them a date in November, they feel that the body is bias and one sided and needs to be revamped immediately. They also want the legislation passed as quickly as possible so that some standard and sanity could be returned to the sport. The meet, which was being organised in collaboration with the Inshan Bacchus Trucking Service and Nazrudeen Mohamed ‘Junior’ of Jumbo Jet, has been rescheduled for
November 10th at the same venue. The organisers claimed that they have suffered thousands of dollars in losses, mentioning the kind of ground work that had to be put in place and the enormous expenses that they had to endure to make preparation for the big day. The police had pulled the plug on the meet a few days before race day citing the police Gymkhana on the same date at Hopetown for the reasons to refuse to give permission. The BLUTC had called the move selfish and unreasonable. President of The GHRA former Chancellor, Justice Cecil Kennard, in speaking to Kaieteur News stated that he was out of the jurisdiction and was not aware of the developments. However as soon as he returned, he made interventions which were too late overturn anything. However, due to his insistence the BLUTC was given the earliest possible date which is the 10th of November which was a reserved for Rising Sun.
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 11, 2013
Olympic bronze medallist Michael Parris in mourning following death of his father Eight years of suffering from the dreaded disease diabetes which resulted in the amputation of both legs and left him bedridden, came to a soothing end Wednesday morning last when the creator cuddled former amateur boxer and coach, Ralph ‘Mushay’ Parris in his arms and took him to a higher plane. He had attained the ripe age of 86 and was hospitalized at the St Joseph’s Mercy Hospital, Parade Street, Kingston just one week prior to his death. ‘Mushay,’ as he was familiarly called, is the father of Guyana’s lone Olympic medallist, Michael Anthony Parris and was a former national amateur boxing coach. He has been ailing for quite some time starting in 2005 when he was admitted to the Public Hospital Georgetown where doctors amputated two of his toes to curtail the spread of the disease. Shortly after he was discharged, the elder Parris was once again stricken by the disease and this time family members took him to the Mercy Hospital where those medical practitioners ordered the amputation of his left leg. ‘Mushay’ became a double amputee in 2012 when
Former boxing champion Michael Benjamin reminisces the disease spread to his right leg and forced doctors to repeat the earlier surgical procedure which left him fully incapacitated. Even then, the former boxing coach demonstrated the fighting propensities that characterize the life of boxers, retained a jovial disposition and was always in the mood for a good boxing chat. The elder Parris was a well-respected coach and was appointed to the national team during the early seventies when local pugilists were on top of their game. During that period he travelled to Barbados, England, Dominica, French Guiana, the USA and many other countries around the globe in pursuit of international acclaim for his country and charges. Boxing buffs of that era would remember the famed Save the Children Boxing Gym in the Freebu r g S c h o o l , Norton and Palm Streets Werk-en-Rust. ‘Mushay’ had teamed up with Joe Spencer and Cedric ‘Premior’ Williams - both died years ago - and together they tutored a
crop of boxers including the Trotman clan, Errol, Gordon and Wayne. Former top boxer, Marcelle Daniels also had a stint at the Save the Children facility and
has since become a trained amateur referee/judge. Under his expert guidance, the Save the Children Boxing Gym became one of the top institutions on the boxing fronts and challenged the might of the Guyana Defence Force, Cliff Anderson and the Republican boxing gyms, all front line entities in those days. Ralph also played a pivotal role in the career of Michael and was one of the instrumental forces in the acquisition of the Moscow Olympics bronze medal in 1980.
PERSONAL INTERACTION My interaction with ‘Mushay’ Parris was a delightful experience; I was among several other top pugilists selected for national representation during his tenure as the head coach of the local boxing team. I was also selected and travelled with the inaugural boxing team to Barbados in 1995 where Guyana won two gold medals through myself and Earl Green, while clinching a silver (Terrence Mentore) and bronze (Garfield Sam). I r e m e m b e r, o h s o v i v i d l y, when we congregated at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (then the National Sports Hall) at around 04:00hrs daily for those 5 mile treks with ‘Mushay’ breathing down our necks and pushing us to the limit. Fondly I reminisce on the many overseas sojourns when even our meals had to be checked and approved by ‘Mushay.’ We hated it especially when we would leave the buffet table with heaped plates only to have a hefty portion removed with his incisive spoon; he was always concerned that we tipped the scale at the right weight and ensured we did not overstuff ourselves. It was harsh administration and we fretted and fumed but in the end we were thankful for it after having those shiny medals slung over our necks, while listening to the National
Anthem wafting through the Barbados Steel Shed and the many other international venues. All this and much more are now reduced to pleasant memories. ‘Mushay’s’ exploits led him to many countries but his most successful sojourn must have been in 1979 when he led a team to the Central American and Caribbean Games in the Dominican Republic. Among those pugilists were Barrington Cambridge, Mark Yaw and his son, Michael. The latter boxer and Mark Yaw both returned with bronze medals. We often joshed ‘Mushay’ of his fertility, this because of his record of producing in excess of 38 children. He w a s a l s o blessed with 25 grandchildren and 10 greatg r a n d s . S everal of his children have predeceased him but his rich legacy lives on through his son, Michael, daughter, Tessa and his many other offspring. The creator has called him to higher duty and ‘Mushay’ will join other great coaches the likes of Cliff Anderson, Spencer, Premior and Caesar Barrow. Even though his coaching days were long expired before he became stricken, his contribution stands out like a beacon light for all to see. Funeral arrangements will be finalized soon. Kaieteur Sport extends deep sympathy to his family and friends affected by his passing while assuring that his legacy will live on as his life was full and productive.
ECCB cricket
Khan, Dyal star as Unity beat Helena 1& 2 by 6 runs Imran Khan and Sunil Dyal stroked half centuries as Unity defeated Helena 1 and 2 by 6 runs when the East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) limited overs cricket competition continued last Sunday. Host Unity took first strike and rattled up 249 before they were bowled out in 35 overs. Imran Khan led with 80 while Sunil Dyal supported well with 50 and Davanand Mangal 41. Martin Dutchin claimed 3-44 and Mukesh Singh 3-54. Randy Budhu then stroked a fine 134, but it was enough to see
Budhu century in vain his team home as they were bowled out for 244 in 30 overs in reply. Nandram Persaud contributed 48; Khan returned to grab 5-33. At Lusignan, Mon Repos went down to Lusignan B by 7 wickets. Mon Repos batted first and were skittled for 52 in 15.2 overs. Chandrika Jeenarine was the main destroyer with 4-9 from 5 overs while Steve Alick took 2-16. Lusignan (B) replied with 53-3 in 12 overs
with Davanand Samroo scoring 19. At Better Hope, the home team overcame Lions XI by 88 runs. Better Hope posted 177- 9 after the game was reduced to 25 overs, batting first. Ravi Singh and Avish Dindyal scored 30 each. Lions XI were bowled out for 89 in 19.4 overs in reply. Dion Ferrier made 27; Suresh (only name given) snared 2-9, Nasim Khan 2-22 and Ravi Singh 2-28.
Friday October 11, 2013
Kaieteur News
Glasgow 2014: Queen launches... From page 44 place up and down The Mall involving Scottish athletes Cara Kennedy (artistic gymnast), Morgan McKinnon (triple jump) and Ruairi Kirkwood (swimming). Other participants included Izzy Conway, a volunteer or Clydesider at the games, Aamir Meymood, the 13-year-old Shawlands Academy pupil who designed the Glasgow 2014 tartan, games ambassador Julie McIlroy and 12-year-old Beth Gilmour, who will be accompanied by games mascot Clyde, whom she designed. Those attending the ceremony included Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond. ‘Momentous year’ He said: “The start of the Queen’s Baton Relay, with two of Scotland’s greatestever athletes, is another step towards what will be a momentous year for Scotland. “2014 promises the greatest-ever Games and the relay will provide a fantastic celebration of sport and culture across the Commonwealth, with Glasgow and Scotland at its heart.” During its international journey the baton will spend an average of one to four days in each nation, with an extended duratio n o f seven days in Wales, two weeks in England and 40 days in Scotland. It will not stopover in the Gambia, which last week withdrew from the Commonwealth, saying it will “never be a member of any neo-colonial institution”. The baton has a lattice design, made from layers of titanium fused tog e t h e r b y l a s e r, w h i c h means the message is visible. The designers said the message from the Queen was “pivotal” and they were keen it should not be “hidden away”. The parchment, handmade in Glasgow using linen and plant fibre, is also “dramatically” illuminated by LED lights within a transparent
cylinder to make the sealed scroll easier to see. The brief for designers stated that the baton should be easily handed from person to person, should weigh no more than 2kg and must be able to withstand all weathers for the 10-month relay. The baton’s handle is made of elm wood sourced from the grounds of Garrison House on the Isle of Cumbrae and was constructed using a boatbuilding technique called bird-mouthing, which means it is light, strong and durable. The top of the baton contains a granite “gemstone” which will be detached by opening a puzzle mechanism and given as gift to each nation and territory. The gems are made of water-resistant granite unique to Scotland and were sourc e d f r o m Ailsa Craig in the Firth of Clyde. Glasgow 2014 will be the 20th Commonwealth Games and will feature 17 sports in 11 days of competition, with 261 medal events. The Commonwealth of Nations has 54 members, but 70 teams participate in the Commonwealth Games because a number of British overseas territories, Crown dependencies and island states compete under their own flag. The UK nations - Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland - compete separately in the Commonwealth Games, as do the smaller home territories such as Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man. The first Queen’s Baton Relay was staged for the 1958 Commonwealth Games in Cardiff and has been the curtain raiser to the Games ever since. But until 1998, the relay would only travel through England and the host nation. By 2002, in Manchester, it was covering 100,000km and visiting 23 nations. Melbourne 2006 was the first baton relay to visit all the nations which sent teams to the Games. (BBC News)
Semi-final slots wide open after Kings survive 56-42 against Bulls... From page 42 points and will be looking for a favourable result at this stage of the championship which is wide open heading towards the final four. Tomorrow Raiders take on Flames in the first game and the Pistons and Bulls match skills in the second. Each win has two points
and for a loss it is one point, so the battle is truly on as four places are up for grabs and all the teams at the moment with the exception of the Pistons have a chance of advancing based on the results of each of the four remaining games which wraps up tomorrow night ahead of the planned next Wednesday’s semifinals.
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Kaieteur News
Windies U-19, Bangladesh U-19 square off in 3rd ODI at National Stadium today West Indies and Bangladesh will both look to take the lead in the seven match U-19 one day series when they face each other today at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence from 09:00hrs. The home team won the first game by 6 wickets at the said venue, while Bangladesh rebounded to take the second by 63 runs at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda. West Indies U-19’s will be boosted by the inclusion of wicketkeeper batsman Nicholas Pooran and will hope for an improved batting
performance since only Leroy Lugg has scored a half century so far in the series. Jeremy Solozano is an exciting player while Tagenarine Chanderpaul must rotate the strike more often, especially against the spinners. Shimron Hetymer, Tristan Coleman along with Pooran should provide support at the top of the order. The home team pacers Jerome Jones, Ray Joseph and Jofa Archer ought to find the Providence pitch more to their liking, while left arm spinner Gudakesh Motie Kanhai has proved economical.
The visitors batting has improved since the opening fixture with Uddin Jashim and Mossadek Saikat scoring half centuries in the second game at Bourda, and along with Nazmul Shanto will lead the visitors in this department once again, but it will be interesting to see how they cope against the West Indies fast men on a harder Providence track. Pacers Abu Saeed andAbu Rony will look to make early in roads, while spinners Javed Rahut, Skipper Mehedi Miraj, Sadman Anik and Saikat are expected to give valuable support.
Little DIVA Flames Female Football Club to commence training tomorrow The newly formed Little DIVA Flames Female Football Club will commence training tomorrow at the GFC Ground, Bourda commencing at 09:00 hrs. Coaches Joseph “Bill” Wilson and Sheron “Sherry” Abrams will be taking the girls through the sessions. Coach Wilson coached the Scotiabank Female All Stars Team to victory in a specially arranged tournament involving Berbice and West Demerara last December,
meanwhile Coach Abrams recently returned to Guyana after successfully participating in a “D” Licence Coaching in Aruba conducted by CONCACAF. The Little DIVA Flames FC was formed to harness and develop the potential football skills of talented young females who are desirous of playing football at the club level locally and being able to represent Guyana Internationally. Opportunities will also be available for those
with the academic qualification and football skill level for them to be offered Scholarships in the Caribbean, Central America, North America and possibly Europe. The club management has promised to ensure that the players will have proper training in a disciplined and safe environment. Life Skills will also be addressed amongst other things as the club grows in stature.
Trophy Stall Regulation Open Basketball
Semi-final slots wide open after Kings survive 56-42 against Bulls, face Raiders tonight The defending champions Kashif and Shanghai Kings gained a life line win by beating Half Mile Bulls 56-42 Wednesday, but will tonight look to win again to reserve a semifinal berth in this year’s Trophy Stall Regulation Open basketball championship now being played at the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Court. Past national Marvin Hartman was on form with 15 points as veteran centre Omally Sampson had 11 and Steve Neils (Jr,) added 10 in
- Falcons collide with Flames the important win for the Kings, while, only fouled out guard Keon Cameron with 12 had a good game for the Bulls as Michael Turner contributed eight in that loss. However, tonight’s game against the Raiders should be a sterner test than the Bulls game as the battle for a semifinal place is truly on with only the Amelia’s Ward Jets virtually assured of a place having ended on 10 points
All systems in place as ... From page 45 House. Several corporate entities have teamed up to ensure the success of the promotion including Giftland Office Max, Digicel, Courts, and Guyoil. King’s Jewelry World and the Ministry of Tourism; flight Jamaica will offset the travelling cost of the Jamaica entourage. Patrons are also asked to retain their ticket stubs for a special drawing that guarantees three lucky persons lucrative gate prizes. The first prize is one cell phone donated by Digicel with the second prize being one pair of Wike sunglasses. The third gate prize will be 2 cases of Premium beer compliments of Banks DIH Ltd.
after winning four and losing two matches in the preliminary round robin aspect of this year’s championship. At the same time the Raiders can strengthen their hopes with a win as they still have a game in hand, having seven points going into this game, while the Kings with a win can move to nine points as they complete their set of matches. That Kings/ Raiders match is the second of a double header tonight where the first game at 19:30hrs is between Bankers Trust Falcons, who will conclude their round of matches with this game and are currently on eight points, having three wins and two losses as they take on Block 22 Flames who have two matches remaining, one tonight and the other tomorrow. The Flames are on six (Continued on page 41)
Friday October 11, 2013
Letter to the Sport Editor
Has the rules changed in granting approval by the GFF in hosting tournaments? DEAR EDITOR, Reference is hereby made to the above caption as it relates to the publication of an article in S.N (02.10.13) captioned “Kashif and Shanghai can have any date once they comply with the rules” by Duncan Saul - Says Christopher Matthias. T he GFF President, was quoted as saying, “The Kashif and Shanghai Organization or any other that is interested in the development of football in Guyana can have any days they so desire to host any tournament, course, competition or seminar once those days don’t conflict with the calendar of activities of the GFF. Editor, while the afore-mentioned is nothing new, since the GFF Competitions/Tournaments takes precedence over those privately run, whether through a club or association, the million dollar question is: Would the GFF 16 team Premier League be played during the period of midNovember, to January1, 2014? Further, with the Premier League scheduled for an October 6, 2013 commencement, which would realize 120 matches in totality, how many matches are slated for the first edition the fixtures, and when will it conclude? Since I doubt whether the fixture will facilitate all of the matches in one instance! So, in actuality the Federation’s Fixtures Committee, should be able to determine the League’s conclusion, providing on a weekly basis all 16 teams are playing, which should not exceed 18 weeks.
Once again the submission of a proposed budget of expenditure; rules, fixture and a confirmation letter from the invited teams are not definitely a new dispensation, in granting the relevant approval, save and except the confirmation letter, but rather protecting the interest and image of the sport and the Federation. Additionally, the lodging of prize monies or a letter of commitment from a reputable sponsor honouring payments, along with the lodging of levy fees, all of which must be done prior to the signing of the contract, was there any evidence in the past by the K & S Organization of a malpractice? Meanwhile, as it relates to associations complaining of not receiving levy fees, remains the Federation’s responsibility, since it is they who set the amount i.e. $1,000,000 or 5% of the gate receipts of the entire competition/tournament (less expenses) whichever is greater. Thereafter the Federation proceeds with the division and the relevant distribution. While the onus is on Associations to oversee ticket sales, collection and the accounts after every match, what would be the position if for instance an association has no participant (s), should they now be deprived of sharing in the levy fees that was done in the past? With the K&S Organisation proposing a Round-Robin/Knockout format, involving 32 teams, compounded by each team receiving $250,000
preparation fees, totaling $8,000,000, would it be prudent for associations to impose a levy fee, moreover, in the absence of domestic activity that in some instances a few have failed to coordinate over 2 years? Or in the absence of matches being played in their association, since from all indications the aforementioned format may not be conducive at this given point off time, then the next best option would be to duly inform the applicant, and to offer a practicable solution probably for a knockout tournament. In taking the “bull by the horns” the GFA executive must be told in no uncertain terms, that their u n p r o f e s s i o n a l administrative approach in coordinating the Players’ Cup have left much to be desired, along with the absence of youth competitions. And until the latter becomes a reality within their calendar of activity, approval cannot be granted for the year-end knockout tournament. But their application would be accommodated for April, 2014 providing there is a significant improvement in its “modus operandi”. Moreover, with their inability to meaningfully develop and promote the sport of association football as enshrined in the constitution, for 2 years, the GFA ran a year-end tournament, when there was an impasse. Now that it’s over, under development cannot be a continued failure. Lester Sealey.
Kadir Mohamed Memorial Ounce of Gold Cycle Road Race
Fierce battle anticipated on Sunday; Neil Reece is defending champ The cream of the nation’s riders are expected to face starters orders on Sunday in the Kadir Mohamed Memorial ‘Ounce of Gold’ Cycle Road Race that will start in the city, proceed to the Linden Soesdyke Highway before returning to the city for the finish. The late Kadir Mohamed, an avid sports enthusiast, hailed from the community of Bartica and in an effort to keep his memory alive in the sports realm, Kadir’s Enterprise of Bartica is sponsoring this 80mile event that is organised by the Flying Stars Cycle Club.
Race time on Sunday is 07:30 hours on Homestretch Avenue with the event proceeding to Dora on the Linden Soesdyke Highway (Coca Cola sign) before returning to the starting line for the finish. Prizes are on offer for the top ten finishers while there will also be additional rewards. This race is anticipated to be keen with the national male and female teams selected for the Caribbean Cycling Championships later this month in Curacao anticipated to be on show as they wind down preparations.
Neil Reece