Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

PAGE 04

Saturday October 15, 2016

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

EDITORIAL

SHOWING POOR LEADERSHIP The interplay between power, politics and personalities was on full display again at the re-opening of Parliament on Thursday. It was a show of gamesmanship and classical elements of infantile politics by the opposition. Regrettably, their behaviour in Parliament has reached a new low in Guyana’s politics. PPP MPs boycotted the first sitting of Parliament for three months and during the budget debates, they walked out of Parliament after their leader spoke. They did again on Thursday during the President’s address to the nation. The people should scold the opposition for not taking i t s P a r l i a m e n t a r y f u n c t i o n s s e r i o u s l y. W h e n parliamentarians fail in their responsibility to consistently attend Parliament or Committee meetings they are sabotaging the system and giving fodder to sceptics who are disillusioned with the business of governance. They are eager to reinforce their negative bias or wholesale condemnation of the system. The opposition MPs must understand that they are short-changing their constituents, their party and the country by their immoral conduct. They need to restore public confidence in themselves and our invaluable system of governance. Few would disagree that the walkout from Parliament by the opposition during the President’s address was unstatesmanlike and should not be tolerated by the electorate. It could threaten the fragile democratic process. The leader of the PPP believes that by virtue of his position, he has the right to make critical decisions even though being in opposition. However, it seemed lost on the minds of PPP MPs that the substantive role of the Parliamentary opposition is to help frame the laws that govern the country. The PPP has support across the political divide, therefore, its leaders have to be mature and respect Parliament and the Presidency even when things are not to their likening. What the opposition MPs have not earned is the right to disrespect Parliament and treat it like refuse. When the people look at the imagery of their lawmakers in Parliament hurling insults at one another or making false and prejudicial statements, they should realise that something is terribly amiss. How can the Members of Parliament expect the people to have any regard for the rule of law when they themselves are not bound by their own strictures? Clearly, the opposition MPs have come full circle to the point where they are seen as demi-gods and the people, especially their supporters are considered mere followers who should not criticise but embrace their uncouth and contemptuous behaviour. This adverse subculture is now completely enmeshed in the psyche of some of their supporters and those whose task is to help make the laws of the country. How could the people realistically expect their lawless lawmakers to frame any kind of policy in their interest or improve the current economic malaise if, individually or collectively, they are not disciplined to conduct themselves properly in Parliament? Turning a blind eye or ignoring the flawed and infantile behaviour of the opposition in Parliament would destroy the traditional values of the country which emphasised decorum, integrity and decencythat have served the country well in the past. It is time for all, including the die-hard supporters of the PPP to take a stand. Guyana is far more important than any individual or group of opposition politicians, who instead of boycotting Parliament should be improving and expanding participation. It is this type of unbridled arrogance and barefaced deceit that caused the defeat of the PPP in the 2011 and 2015 general elections.The key lessons about politics that every politician, especially the opposition, should know is not to attack their opponents and run away after. It is a sign of weakness that could lead to another defeat at the polls.It is poor leadership.

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

Stop these character attacks, or else..! DEAR EDITOR, The various articles in some of the daily national newspapers which seem to have an angle of negativity to hamper my professional career are unsupported by any evidence or reference to any evidence of forgery or fraudulent acts. These articles are a regurgitation of old news that was reported in April 2016. At that time, when the reports of the forensic audit were first made public, I issued a public statement on all matters; stating that I acted within the confines of my job on all related matters for the Guyana Gold Board, and discharged my responsibilities professionally and in accordance with the directions of the Board of Directors. As such, let me re-state what was noted then: 1. The Secretary to the Board of Directors was

appointed by Cabinet Decisions, during the period under review. 2. The Secretary acted in full compliance within the mandate of the Guyana Gold Board Act, the management of the GGB and, where necessary through effective policy guidance from the former Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, which was always related to the Board of Directors by the former Chairperson. 3. All tasks performed for the benefit of the organisation by the Secretary were done with the full disclosure and consent of the Chairperson of the Board, during that period. 4. At no given time did the Secretary use, reuse (“lift”), misrepresent or disguise the signature of the former chairperson for any undertaking in his capacity on the Board, for

professional or other benefits. Moreover, let me underscore, that during my tenure as Secretary to the Board of Directors of the Guyana Gold Board, I performed my duties which were directives from my seniors. At no time, did I undertake any task (financial, procurement, managerial, human resources, or otherwise) on my own accord. All tasks were done with the full knowledge of the Guyana Gold Board’s management team, its Directors and Chairperson, and the subject Minister, at that time. I served the Board with h o n o u r. I w a s n e v e r terminated or dismissed from the Board. My terms were all fulfilled for each period that I served on the Board. Further, as I embark on a new opportunity, this old news which seems to be

some sort of a personal mission to tarnish my professional character must end. We are living in serious times, in a country that is looking for serious developmental principles. As such, we must focus on the issues that matter for our growth as a nation, and not on personal agendas that may seek to disrupt someone’s integrity. My entire professional career has been built on my abilities to successfully perform the tasks which have been given to me. I have always executed my job with h o n o u r, i n t e g r i t y a n d respect, which has afforded me the opportunity to be effective in achieving those respective goals. Should these character attacks not be stopped, then the appropriate actions will be sought and implemented, accordingly. Mr. Bobby Gossai, Jr.

I apologise to the Rose Hall Township DEAR EDITOR; I wish to thank Mr Hilbert Foster for his timely correction to my inadvertent statement with regards to my misinterpretation of the site of the work done in my letter dated October 8th, 2016. Indeed it was the Monument Site

at Rose Hall, Canje and not the Rose Hall Town Monument site, and wish to extend my sincere apologies to the Rose Hall Township for any embarrassment caused. However, all the other facts remain relevant with regards to the highly

overpriced work and the fact that Councillors and members of the Works Committee, Sherry Ann Beharry, Samuel Fraser and one other RDC councillor, certified the said work without inspection. Lakram Singh

Saturday October 15, 2016

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

Explanation on why Diwali falls on Explanation why Diwali should not be (moon’s phase) requires for Diwali as the 29th, which Savings), it is 7:30pm in India. instead we have a western on October 30 atheTithiperformance of a Vrat some don’t like? Are all these October 30 This doesn’t mean that we calendar calibrated for our Panchangs wrong? There is DEAR EDITOR, (religious act), that performance needs. Unfortunately, no should eat dinner instead of DEAR EDITOR, My name is Pandit Yudhishthir Dhanrajh. I am the son of Pandit Munesh Dhanrajh, and grandson of the late and renowned Pandit Dhanrajh of Essequibo. Pt. Dhanrajh was an excellent scholar of Jyotish, and one of the top Astrologers in Guyana in his time. I am currently studying Sanskrit Vyakaran, Karmakand, and Jyotish at Sampurnanand Sanskrit University in Varanasi, India. In the past few weeks there have been conflicting reports regarding the precise dates of Hindu Festivals. On October 10th, 2016, Pandit Balbadar stated that since Amaawasya Tithi (New Moon Phase) ends at exactly 1:37pm on the 30th, it is not possible to celebrate Diwali on the night of the 30th, as the auspicious time (Mangal Samay) would have expired. This is not accurate according to Vedic Astrology. According to the Sampurnanand Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya, department of Jyotish, when a Panchang is prepared, it takes India as the point of reference. In the past, this system would have applied to the majority of Hindus, and it worked very well. However now there is a growing Indian Diaspora spread throughout the Globe in different time zones. When it is 10:00am in Guyana, New York, and Toronto (Before Daylight

breakfast. The same applies to our festivals. Living in Guyana, we have to take our position in the globe as our point of reference. The question will be raised, that the phases of the moon are the same for the entire world, and do not depend on time. Moon phases can change during the day. So why is it that Hindu and Sikh women celebrate Karwa Chauth by waiting to see the moon before breaking fast? Why don’t they break their fast during the day when devotees in India see the moon? We should learn from this example. Due to our point of reference being different from India, the Mangal Samay has not expired, even though Amaawasya may have concluded with respect to India. It is considered very auspicious to see the moon (Soma Darshan) at night, since during the day Surya Deva is ruling. Therefore, to say that Diwali is finishing in the afternoon of the 30thand therefore must be celebrated the night before (29th of October) shows a lack of understanding of Jyotish, astrophysics, and astronomy. India celebrates Diwali on October 30th, but India and Guyana are not in the same time zone and location in the globe. When India celebrates Christmas on the 25th, do we celebrate it on the 24? No,

astrologer to date has created a Panchang for our continent and time zone. That will be a project I will work on upon completion of my studies in Varanasi. It is also worth noting that many of these Panchang have influence from South Indian Astrology, which tends to celebrate festivals a day early. The position of the moon relative to India, will not be the same relative to Guyana, in terms of visibility and distance. That is why only some places are able to see the Lunar Eclipse, whilst others are not. We live in a Spherical world, not a flat one where India rests in the center, and as such those qualified in the field of Jyotish should dispel the doubts of devotees of Satya Sanatan Dharma by scientifically explaining our Calendar, relative to our needs as a country in the western hemisphere. I have consulted extensively with many doctors in Sampurnanand Sanskrit University about this issue. Sampurnanand Sanskrit University is the most ancient Sanskrit University in the world and the leading authority for Sanskrit and Jyotish in India. This article is approved by them, and we are in agreement that Diwali should be celebrated the night of October 30th in Guyana. Pt. Yudhishthir Dhanrajh, BSc.

Questions about the dispensation and above their child. of justice in Guyana over The man himself according to DEAR EDITOR, Often times one sits and wonders aloud the state of mind of some who sit at the helm of institutions, corporations, organisations, etc, vested with full authority and the prerogative to “call the shots”. I especially want to single out once again those within the judiciary. They hold in their hands the power of decision – sometimes of life and death, which bears down heavily upon shape of things and determine greatly what society becomes based on their verdict as they decide on the fate of the accused standing before them. Editor, my thoughts with respect to this question were triggered after reading in the Stabroek News Tuesday August 20th 2016: “Man charged

with causing wife’s death in bike accident.” As reported, “Almost five months since losing his wife after the motorcycle they were traveling on was hit by a car, a man found himself being charged with causing her death.” It further stated that he was charged with driving an unregistered motor vehicle causing her death. It sadly informed us also that at the time of the accident the couple was on their way to find their son after they discovered he was missing. It stands to reason that any parent upon receiving such news would take a chance and not be bothered about his/her motorbike not being registered, under such a situation that just will not be considered as a priority

the report underwent surgery for injuries he sustained to his leg. Editor, I cannot figure out why this man was charged for causing the accident when they were the ones who were hit by a car resulting in him losing his wife, but it came through as if because the bike is unregistered, his wife died. To boot, after all that agony, funeral expenses, surgery, eight and one year old children now to take care of all alone, he was placed on $200,000 bail and required to lodge his passport to prevent him from escaping! Boy, I tell you, are some of these people dispensing justice for real to be behaving so mechanical, cold and insensitive. I really questioned the judgement of these people, do stable, (Continued on page 6)

I was startled, shocked and could not believe what was written at page 35 of the Sunday edition of the Kaieteur News (Oct. 9) under the caption, “Diwali observance set for October 30,” when we all know (or are supposed to know) that October 29th was declared a National Holiday in observance of Diwali. Though it was a Press Release from Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, it was so worded to deceive, as is their wont. Let me mention that K.N. chose not to publish my letter dated 5th October on the methodology of arriving at the date for Diwali. DIWALI Many persons posit the view that Diwali is to be observed on the darkest night. This is a popular misconception. According to all Texts, Diwali is celebrated on the evening of the New Moon (Amaavasya). Each Phase of the Moon has a timespan, which is given hereunder. 1st day of Diwali – from 6:45am on 27th to 8:50am on the 28th. (Dhanteras Oct. 27) 2nd day of Diwali – from 8:50am on the 28th to 11:09 on the 29th. (Narak Chaturdasi Oct. 28) 3rd day (Amaavasya) – from 11:09 on the 29th to 1:37pm on the 30th. (Diwali Oct. 29) Which is the evening of Amaavasya? Of course, the 29th October. For religious purposes, the rule is, “Where

must be within the period of the Tithi.” Diwali must be observed within the time-frame of the moon’s phase. As Jehovah God caused the sun and the moon to stand still so that Joshua and the Israelites could defeat the Amorites, Dharmic Sabha is making the moon to “stand still” at 1:37pm on the 30th so that it can celebrate Diwali on the evening of the 30th. But the moon changes to the next phase at 1:38pm; it does not wait on anyone. Guyana shares the same Time Zone as Canada, USA, and the Caribbean. All these countries will be celebrating Diwali on October 29; Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha is the only organization within this time zone that will be doing so on the 30th. The strange thing is, it has no supporting text for its position. Those who have a doubt, or wish for certainty, can check the Panchangs (Astrological Tables). They are now in English – 5 of them, and have been made for people in the west who cannot use the Hindi versions. We all use them for naming babies, in marriages, building homes, making purchases, in sickness and problems, to check what work we must do, in death, etc. etc. What is wrong with them now? Is it because they have the date

no book which has Diwali for the 30th. Those who wish for scientific evidence can go to NASA, which agrees with all our Panchangs. According to NASA, the Moon’s darkest phase will be at 1:37pm on the 30th October. The Moon starts to get bigger and brighter after 1:37pm on the 30th. The night of the 30th, therefore, is not the darkest period; 1:37pm is. Each of the Moon’s 30 phases can occur at any time of the day, not necessarily during the night. Full moon, for example, can be at 8:00am; it starts to get smaller and darker after 8:00am. Similarly, with the New Moon; it can be during the day, like on the 30th. However, because of the Sunlight, we do not see them. Those who celebrate Diwali on the evening of the 30th will be doing so during the bright period of the moon. I am prepared to defend this position at any forum. I hope my letter will be given the consideration that it deserves. Pt. R. Balbadar Editor’s note; Pandit Balbadar ’s letter was published on October 10, under the caption, “Guidelines for understanding the date of Diwali.”

Guyana diaspora values its assistance to its homeland DEAR EDITOR; There is absolutely no doubt that the diaspora is playing an important role to Guyana in terms of financial remittances on a regular basis as well as assistance to schools, churches, mandirs, mosques, sports organisations and other communities. Unfortunately there have been criticisms in some quarters that the diaspora is not given the recognition it is entitled to and some home basedGuyanese feel that members of the diaspora should not be given credit because they “cut and run”. This is very unfortunate because some overseas based Guyanese make significant contributions on a regular basis to the country of their birth. The United States of America no doubt has the most members of the diaspora followed by Canada, the

Caribbean, and it might surprise many that thousands live in the United Kingdom. High Commissioner Hamley Case told me in a brief conversation that he was amazed that there are so many of his countrymen in the UK and added that many of them are prepared to “give back” to their country, which they left decades ago. Some members of the diaspora in New York have been advocating that the government establish a Ministry for diaspora affairs or at least have a unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate with members of the diaspora who are scattered across the planet.

Joan Sears who was attached to the Guyana Relief Council in Georgetown with the assistance of a few well known Guyanese, who live in Florida, incorporated the Guyana Relief Council in Florida and every year has been holding fundraising ventures to assist Guyanese who suffered loss during floods or other disaster. The Florida based organization has assisted more than1000 Guyanese during the past decade. The organization celebrates its 10th anniversary on Saturday October 15 with its annual dinner/dance at the Double Tree by the Hilton Hotel in Sunrise Florida. Oscar Ramjeet

PAGE 6

DEAR EDITOR; Editor’s note; this is the conclusion of this missive that we carried in our edition yesterday On February 23, 1971 on the occasion of Guyana’s Republic Day Anniversary, Prime Minister Burnham announced the introduction into Parliament of a measure to nationalize with reasonable compensation the Bauxite Company at Linden. On March 1st 1971, the Guyana Parliament voted for the Nationalization Act making it possible for the Government to take control of the Bauxite Industry. The Government then entered into immediate negotiation with Alcon for the purchase of Demba’s assets in Guyana, and on the 14th the Minister of Mines and Forrest issued a joint statement with Alcan announcing the term of Agreement to pay Alcan G$109M (US53M) within 20 years. On the 15thJuly, 1971 the Bauxite Company was nationalized and the Guyana Bauxite Company Limited (Guybau) was born. Haslyn Parris was appointed the C.E.O of the Company. The Company at that time had employed over 5000 workers, with Linden having a population of about 25,000 persons. Guyana’s decision to take over the Bauxite Company attracted

Kaieteur News

GUYANA BAUXITE; 100 YEARS OF OPERATION international attention and concern with positive and negative views of the future of the operation of the industry. During the 70’s Guybau had maintained good production and sales, however, 10 years after nationalization we saw rapid slump in the industry especially during the 80s and 90s. First we saw the closure of the alumina plant, which resulted in the loss of approximately 2000 workers. It must be noted that during the 1970s Guyana which produce the world best calcined bauxite had the advantage of being the world leading supplier of calcined bauxite, a high grade of mineral used for lining steel furnaces and other high temperature applications. After 1981, however China emerged as a major source of the production of calcined bauxite, and Guyana became known as a less reliable supplier. The poor condition of both plant and mine equipment had resulted in heavy loss of market during the 80s and early 90s. In 1985 we had a financial intervention of 34.5 million EU by Sysmin (System of Mining Products – Special Financing facility) and we had financial intervention in 1991; the World Bank, Sysmin and the

European Investment Bankprovided US$23 Million in credits in that phase for use in the Initial Restructuring Phase (IRP). Although we had all those interventions, Linmine’s production fell (more than 45% from 1991 to 1992) and continued to drop thereafter, despite under new management of (Minproc), an Australian Company which was brought in under a three years management contract by the PNC Government to manage the industry and to make it profitable, after local management of the Bauxite Industry Company failed to make it profitable. Minproc also failed to make the industry profitable and the contract came to an end in 1995. After the death of President Burnham, Desmond Hoyte became President, and who brought in Minproc. He was to decide that if not profitable, he would shut down the industry. However, there was a change of Government in 1992, by the PPP/C winning the first democratic elections since 1964. Guyana’s New President, Dr. Cheddie Jagan decided not to close the bauxite industry and to find International joint partnership. A decision was taken by the PPP/C Government of

Look out for the supplier of that delivery of 100,000 tons. 200,000 crushed stone aTrying to find information on DEAR EDITOR, The Chinese General Contractor for the CJIA expansion project having a supplier out of Suriname to supply crushed stone is simply maximizing profits. I do not know the details of the contract documents but I would like to share my opinion on lessons learnt during my years of practice in construction. A contractor will find loopholes within the contract that allows him to increase his bottom line. Based on published information the CJIA contractor has inked a deal to import crushed stone from NV Grassalco, at a landed rate in Guyana of US$26 per ton. I read that one local supplier Toolsie Persaud Limited (TPL) is seeking US$36 per ton and is an unhappy ‘camper’. It is also reported that the CJIA project requires 300,000

Saturday October 15, 2016

ton of crushed stone. TPL says that they were not aware of the amount of stone that was required and would have quoted a better price. Do I believe TPL? Of course not. In my opinion they were trying to make a ‘kill’. Anyhow, what is important here is that the crushed stone is imported from a company called NV Grassalco that is owned and operated by the Suriname Government. A visit to the website for G r a s s a l c o (www.grassalco.com) will provide useful information about this stone deal and that negotiations have been ongoing since December 2015 with the CJIA contractor. Further reading shows that NV Grassalco is in a joint venture with Zhong Da International Engineering Company NV (ZDIEC) for the supply of this crushed stone with Grassalco accounting for

ZDIEC-NV was not successful and I am forced to wonder if ZDIEC-NV is more than just a vendor supplying stone to the CJIA expansion project. It is therefore worthy of the owner of the CJIA expansion project (GoG) to be on the look-out for the source of the additional 200,000 tons of crushed stone that will not be supplied by Grassalco NV and to perform on-going quality checks per the contract documents. Unquestionably, Guyana needs to do more to protect local manufactured products. But at the same time local manufacturers should not practice price gouging. It is important that local quarries study their cost of production and introduce measures to match or better their CARICOM counterparts or else they will soon be out of business or unless they themselves are the contractor. Finally, I have worked on a project in the US that included a Buy-America clause in the contract document. The Government needs to fix this as Grassalco describes this as a ‘mega deal’ on their 45th anniversary. Ralph Seegobin, P.E.

Guyana in June 2003 to have Linmine operations managed by Cambior, a Canadian company who owned OMAI Gold Mine. (OBMI) as an interim measure, until the financing for the full joint venture through privatization took place. In the month of December 2004 the Linden Bauxite was privatized by joint shares of Cambior having 70% shares and

Government 30% shares. The Cambior shares were sold to BOSAI CHINA in year 2007 and Government retained 30% share. Since privatization of the industry, it continues to be profitable under the management of Bosai. Here again there is the return of the (PNC) APNU/AFC Government, let’s hope for continued profit for the bauxite industry in Guyana.

In conclusion I believe that if the Bauxite Company was not nationalized from Demba in 1971, Guyana today may have seen the continued operation of the alumina plant and even a smelter plant here, because Demba was doing a study to develop a hydro electric plant at Tiger Hill at Malali, some 40 miles upper Demerara River from Linden. Andrew Forsythe Former Board Member of Bosai

Guyana does practice sustainable to say that the GFC forestry management isis notnotfairpracticing sustainable DEAR EDITOR, I read Terrence Williams’s letter in the Sunday Kaieteur News (09-10-2016) captioned “A plea to the Guyana Forestry Commission” and I am in agreement with his letter. William’s letter was in response to Dr. Janette Bulkan’s missive in the media where she said that the UK’s ban on our green heart is correct on the basis that Guyana does not practice Sustainable Forest Management (SFM). Dr. Bulkan is entitled to her own views regarding Guyana’s forestry sector even though they are not consistent with assessments made by international Forest Monitors (IFM) on Guyana’s deforestation rate. For example, Guyana’s year 5 interim measures report for forest-based performance required by Norway stated

that Guyana achieved a deforestation rate of 0.065%. This is still very low and by comparison to other countries the lowest. This forest-based performance report for January 2014- December 2014 was assessed and endorsed by international forest experts from Norway stipulated by the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Guyana and Norway in pursuance of Guyana’s low- carbon development strategy (LCDS). It is also important to mention that Guyana’s interim measures report for year number 5 for Norway was based on Redd + indicators as well as the previous reports using our own monitoring , reporting and verification system (MRVS) developed by the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) in partnership with stakeholders. So basically it

Forest Management as is always being claimed by Dr. Bulkan. But Dr. Bulkan while being a GFC board director who resides overseas and uses Skype at board meetings continues to express uncomplimentary views about the management of Guyana’s forest sector in the public domain instead at board meetings which brings into question the matter of confidentiality. This I find very strange since it is not based on professionalism and in this regard, I do believe that the GFC should have a code of conduct for its board members. Like Terrence Williams, I do believe that the ban on green heart by the United Kingdom (UK) is simply not correct and it should be removed since it is not justified. Peter Persaud

Questions about the dispensation... From page 5 rational minds behave this way. Now digest this. A young woman Malinda Beaton 31, a mother with five children is jailed for 18 months for robbery after sex. A man made a deal with this woman, took her to his apartment for fun time, had his fill then disappeared into the sunset. Awoke and found his money was missing, the woman admitted to taking it because she have five children to care for – case closed. Editor, I’m here in total agreement with Mr. Hamilton Green, bigger folks steal and kill for millions and the process takes forever before finally it’s dismissed: “we men must know that there is a price for our adventures . . . . Justice must take all factors into account. Now we read of another unfortunate incident, also in the S.N concerning a member of the Guyana Police Force. In the S.N of August 31st 2016 under the caption “Police Officer shot on the job has reconstructive surgery,” we read: “The GPF has facilitated reconstructive surgery for

one of its members who was shot to the head last year, free of cost” stated that police man Victor Fausette was booking an assailant when a confrontation occurred and he was shot in the head. “The GPF has absorbed all expenses for Fausette and supports his family as he continues his recovery . . . .” Editor, this is commendable and which I think all will agree was/is the proper thing for any organisation to do for any of its members who has been such a victim – splendid. Now let’s shift gear a bit here and juxtapose this story about Lukeisha Clarke and Althea McPherson with that of police officer Victor Fausette, two young women who were shocked and burnt by live electrical wire, October 10th last year. The two young women were standing together when they heard an explosion, saw an electrical cable overhead on fire, began to run when the cable fell and entangled them, they both fell on the road unconscious. This was as a result of actions by a member of the GPF on duty. Clarke who was

seven months pregnant at the time suffered severe burns and was admitted to the hospital, underwent a series of skin grafts. Not only did she lose her job but so too did her mother who was forced to leave her job to take care of her. McPherson was unable to walk because she sustained burns on her feet and has been on sick leave from her job as a security officer – her only source of income, to take care of her two children. She goes to the hospital daily for treatment. Neither the policeman that caused their distress or any other official of the GPF visited them to inquire about anything, their condition or else. Those two young women were treated as if they don’t belong through no fault of theirs, these are the things that make people become bitter. Do people in authority sleep at ease? The treatment given to that police officer as against that meted out to Lukeisha Clarke and Althea McPherson is the very antithesis of fairness, equality and justice. Frank Fyffe

Saturday October 15, 2016

PAGE 7

Kaieteur News

Jagdeo reacts sharply to Granger’s criticism Private Sector Commission cautions Govt. on using Acquisition Act

Chairman of the PSC, Eddie Boyer The Private Sector Commission has weighed in on the recent issue arising out of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, regarding the exercise of the government’s right under the Acquisition of Lands for Public Purposes Act to acquire private lands for public use. The PSC posits that any such move by a government is always viewed with a high level of scepticism and reservation by investors, globally. The Commission published a statement to the press yesterday saying that such acts though legal, dampen investor confidence. These actions, according to the PSC have the effect on investors to question their right to own property and believe that their investments are under threat. The Commission is calling on the government to be extremely cautious when invoking the right to acquire private property for public use and to ensure that

adequate transparency, thought, public consultations and justifications are made to avoid unnecessary controversy when such decisions are taken. It was reported by the Commission that private property owners are in a state of trepidation since the recent issue was brought to the public attention. The Commission is calling on the government to clarify its policy and position on this matter. Recently, AttorneyGeneral Basil Williams had refuted claims that the government had compulsorily acquired two plots of land on Carmichael Street. These belong to Clarissa Rhiel and Beharry Groups of Company Ltd. The two plots of land are located nearby the Legal Affairs Ministry. It was (Continued on page 23)

Leader of the Opposition and former President Bharrat Jagdeo told reporters on Thursday at the Public Buildings that President David Granger’s speech is the kind which is delivered a week after ascending to political office. “You criticizse the people, the opposition or former government, you talk about your difficulties, you cast blame on everyone and then you give some broad guidelines about how your government will operate.” He said that the President’s speech is unbecoming for the leader of a government which has already spent a quarter of its term in office. He was reacting to President David Granger’s speech at the re-opening of parliament. He described it as a desecration to the chambers of the National Assembly. In the presence of his party comrades former Junior Finance Minister Juan Edghill and former Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs Pauline Sukhai, Jagdeo said, “He (Granger) starts off in a very hostile way talking about the decade of the troubles and he laid this directly on the feet of the People’s Progressive Party.” The opposition leader

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo said that Granger’s notion about the assassination of a minister which was not investigated is incorrect. Granger was referring to the death of former Minister of Agriculture Satyadeow Sawh. “It is not true. In fact, someone was charged for killing Sash Sawh. If he only would ask the Commissioner of Police and they will send him a huge file which had a full police investigation. He has (Winston Felix) there. Felix would tell him about it. “ Jagdeo was also critical of the President’s comment on the United Kingdom Security Sector Reform Action Plan. He said that his party was in

discussion with the UK and believes the project died because the British government diverted funds to other places such as Afghanistan. Secondly, Jagdeo said the project fell through because the PPP/C government refused to allow British soldiers to come and stage an exercise in Guyana close to the Venezuelan border in an Amerindian community using live rounds. “I said, once I am president that wasn’t gonna happen. So there was a reason for this, because we were not gonna trade our sovereignty for this, the colonial power to tell us to put conditions that may harm our communities or create problems with our neighbours.” On the issue of the economy, Jagdeo sought to discredit the President’s description of there being a parlous economic situation when government changed in

May 2015. He said that Guyana’s economy has been growing for the past 10 years at an average growth rate of over four per cent. “No other country in the region has seen 10 years of continuous growth. Secondly, our debt to GDP figures had come down from 900 per cent to 48 per cent of GDP.” As it relates to the Public Procurement Commission, Jagdeo said that Granger’s excuse of waiting on the establishment of the Terms of Reference is unnecessary since the TORs are enshrined in the constitution. He said that the Executive arm of government cannot produce the TORs. According to Jagdeo, the President’s speech shows how out of touch he is with reality. “He comes to this parliament routinely and he just speaks about different issues that have very little relevance to people’s lives.”

PAGE 8

Kaieteur News

Agriculture Ministry presents 2020 Strategic Plan to Islamic Development Bank …as consultations with Govt. agencies begins Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, George Jervis, presented his ministry’s strategic plan to key representatives of the Islamic Development Bank, who are in Guyana to ascertain whether a relationship can be established over the next few days. Jervis said that the Ministry is aiming to achieve a five per cent annual growth, 50 per cent reduction of imports in service specific items which are currently imported in large quantities, a 25 per cent increase in the non-sugar and non-rice and a 50 per cent increase in agroprocessed production by 2020. The PS said that the Ministry is looking to have a dairy industry with at least one dairy plant producing pasteurised and Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) milk. He said that milk and milk products are among the top ten food imports. Jervis said that these items were valued at

Ministry of Agriculture Permanent Secretary, George Jervis US$75M in 2015. Given this expenditure, he said that it is important for there to be a resuscitation of the local dairy industry. He said that in addition to the dairy industry, there is focus on cultivation. “We would like to have at

least 10,000 hectares of new cultivation area in the interior savannah. I have to say that this is on track.” Jervis said that there is also a 20,000 hectare mega farm project which is also on track. The Ministry is also eyeing the resuscitation of the oil palm industry predominantly in Region One. He noted that there was a pilot project which had morphed into biodiesel but was later privatised. J e r v i s s aid that in resuscitating the oil palm industry, he hopes that it will have the support of other partners. He noted that the Islamic Development Bank has counterparts in Malaysia and Indonesia, who are deeply involved in the sector. “It is not merely to resuscitate the industry, it is to have commercial investment in the sector and we welcome both because we recognise the size of investment required is not something Government should really be sticking into.” Jervis said that the industry needs to be taken to a point where it is attractive to investors. Rainwater harvesting was also highlighted to be one of the several projects to be undertaken in Regions Eight and Nine. He said that in these regions, there is sufficient rainfall to serve the areas, however all the rain comes in three months; after which

there is no water for several months. “We would like to put systems in place to duplicate what some other countries are doing already and harvest the water so we can have the water for more measured provision for plants and animals.” Jervis said that the Ministry has a vision for Guyana in relation to agriculture. Emphasis is expected to be placed on living standards, safe and high quality food, reduced importation, attractive source of livelihood, employment and wealth generation, rapid economic growth in an expert oriented country, making Guyana a choice destination for e n t r e p r e n e u r s , industrialisation through processing and packaging and agriculture for fuel. The PS said that Guyana has the potential to develop an Agri-fuel industry to meet the needs of the sector. A number of Ministries are slated to make presentations to the Islamic B a n k ’s representatives. Today the Ministry of Public Infrastructure is expected to make its exposition along with a follow-up by the Ministry of Agriculture. Guyana was formally inducted into the membership of the IDB in March of this year. The country has been attempting to join the bank since it became a member of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) in 1998 as it was a prerequisite for membership to the IDB. The bank was established in 1973 and began operating on October 20, 1975 with headquarters in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Saturday October 15, 2016

Efforts underway to ensure a safer Guyana--Pres. Granger President, David Granger

The safety of the nation’s citizens is a subject matter that President David Granger treats with importance. In this regard, he announced during his address to the Parliament on Thursday that a number of plans are underway to ensure a safer Guyana. The Head of State said that his government will not only make the nation more secure by combating crime and criminals but by also uprooting the causes of crime and its links with transnational crime. He told Members of Parliament that his Government has since established a National Security Committee and is in the process of creating a new National Anti-Narcotics Agency (NANA) to address the mother of all crimes – the trafficking in narcotics. Granger, with his years of

military experience, also announced that the admistration is working to establish a new National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) to ensure better surveillance of the nation’s borders and coasts. The President said, “We have taken a decision, also, to re-engage the United Kingdom with a view to restoring the aborted Security Sector Reform Action Plan (SSRAP). “The Plan will commence soon with the arrival of experts from the United Kingdom to advise us on crafting a national security response to domestic and transnational crime – including narcoticstrafficking and gun-running.” Granger said that aerial surveillance of the maritime zone over the past year led (Continued on page 23)

Saturday October 15, 2016

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

The ship of state needs steadying There is a problem on board the ship of State. It is not mutiny but it is sure heading into chaos. There are too many loose cannons littering the political minefield that is known as the APNU+AFC. Persons are doing their own things, making wild statements in social media and all of this is embarrassing the government. If this situation persists, there can be total loss of control with no one feeling that they must be accountable

to higher authority. If and when this happens, it will cause serious problems for the government because no one will be taking orders or reining in the deviants. The APNU+AFC administration is not comparable to the PPP/C. The PPP/C had a cohesive government. They all more or less belonged to the same party. The Civic component simply toed the line; it had no independent existence. The situation is different with the APNU+AFC. It is a

coalition between a coalition or partnership, the APNU and an ambitious political party, the AFC. The APNU is a lopsided political partnership. It is essentially the PNC/R and a few microscopic political parties. It has joined together with the AFC which commands about 10% of the support of the electorate, judging from the results of the 2011 polls. The APNU and the AFC are bound together in a pact which is guided by an agreement, the

Dem boys seh... Suriname police mek Dataram wee wee Barry was on a drug charge. He had top lawyer who go to de High Court and apply fuh bail. Bail was granted. Dem man was going to court all through de trial. De mistake de magistrate mek was to announce that she gun hand down she decision next week. Barry tell dem boys he ain’t waiting fun anybody mek decision fuh he. He is he own big man and he can do wha he want. On de day when de magistrate ready to hand down she decision she didn’t see Barry nowhere in de court room. When she ask de lawyer fuh Barry de lawyer seh, “You honour me ain’t see Barry meself. Wherever he deh or wheh he gone he

didn’t tell me. De magistrate she alright I gun give him 60 months behind he back and I gun mek he pay $164 million. When Barry hear that decision he tell he friends if she de magistrate know how much thing he got to sell to pay that fine. That is when he run. Nobody did know wheh he run until yesterday when dem hear how de Suriname police find him. Dem boys hear when de police storm de house Barry freeze and de wee wee flow. De Suriname police seh he had on a polo jeans and a green shirt. Dem ask him his name and instead of him answer de question he beg dem not to treat him like Roger. He beg

dem to send him to Guyana and not to Trinidad. He tell dem he don’t want to fly from Paramaribo to Piarco. He tell de police, dem boys hear, how he would be looking out de window and he expect to see Guyana Marriott and not Trinidad Hyatt. From de Hyatt he got another short flight to a place call Miami and that flight don’t have window seat. All he got is two big strong man wid suit sitting down on both sides. Dem boys seh is not Barry alone gun end up in jail. Soulja Bai plan to send nuff of dem to jail very soon. Gossai is one. Talk half and don’t hold you breath to welcome Barry home at Lot 12.

Cummingsburg Accord, which was so poorly crafted that it ran into early problems and is no longer a template for the effective working together of the APNU and the AFC. The agreement needs to be renegotiated to strengthen the government and to bring some order to what is taking place within the ruling administration. It should have been anticipated that the coalition government would have been plagued with suspicion even though the parties did team up to frustrate and cripple the Ramotar administration. There was bound to be some level of mistrust and a great deal of awkwardness in working together. There was also bound to be power vacuums. While the President holds full executive authority under the law, it must be understood that he is checked in his freedom to impose his will, not by the lack of authority but by the need to keep the AFC happy. The AFC on the other hand has to consider the views of its own constituents even as it tries to be compliant with the principle of democratic centralism which exists within the government. The AFC can break up the government if it pulls out of the government but it is not likely to do so since once you have tasted the sweet of political power you are not prone to want to dispense with it.

The coalition government is facing the same problem that Burnham faced during his administration. Burnham was unprepared to rein in the excesses of his party’s officials for fear that such actions would lend support to the PPP/C. Burnham was obsessed, to the point of paranoia, with overshadowing Jagan. And so he did not move against the corruption and powerdrunken actions of his underlings. This failure, of course, enraged the leader of the United Force who was then the Finance Minister. Differences arose between Burnham and D’Aguiar, over Burnham’s failure to discipline some of his officials. The PNC/UF coalition almost fell apart. It has to take the then top US envoy in the country to prevent a break-up of the coalition. Burnham eventually dumped the United Force in 1968, rigged the elections and ruled supreme until his death in 1985. But he did face

another crisis later in his government, which forced him to appoint his Deputy, Dr. Ptolemy Reid, as the person to whom all Cabinet ministers had to report. Ironically the Cummingsburg Accord does provide for such an arrangement. It does provide for the Prime Minister to be responsible for all domestic affairs. Logically this should mean that all ministers, except those concerned with defence and foreign affairs, should report to the Prime Minister. But this provision in the Cummingsburg Accord is being honoured in the breach. It needs to be activated now so as to bring greater order to government and to have someone ensure that the ship of State is steadied.

PAGE 10

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

What Vic Insanally said on the tape Major-General Joe Singh is currently investigating the accusations by a broadcaster in Essequibo against two members of the National Broadcasting Authority – Messrs. Tony Vieira and Vic Insanally. One would assume that a taped conversation would have been presented at the inquiry. I have heard the voices on the tape and it is my opinion that the tape is genuine. I have literally grown up in Guyana hearing Mr. Insanally speak and to my

mind that is his voice. I believe I know the unmistakable tones I am not going to comment on the contents of that tape in relation to the two Board members. I do not want to get a libel suit. As a long standing media operative I know very well the immense limitations of this un-free country so I am not going to analyse the contents of the tape. There is just one tiny part that is non-contentious and I will refer to it because it concerns the way people like Bharrat

Jagdeo and Roger Luncheon ran Guyana. Mr. Insanally referred to Alfro Alphonso and said to the broadcaster that Alphonso didn’t go through the board, but the political people. He went on to explain to the broadcaster that Alphonso received a letter directly from Roger Luncheon. This was the way the administration of Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar behaved. Today, these very people who administered an incestuous state machinery are running all over Guyana complaining about who the Coalition is employing and who it is dismissing. Will Luncheon respond to Insanally? The answer is a resounding no. The level of barefacedness is immeasurable. The PPP to date has not even offered half of an apology about egregious mistakes made and the PPP leaders will not. Here

is where psychology meets politics. Why would they not want to apologise for blatant wrong-doing? We can resort to psychology and cite former British Prime Minister Tony Blair as an example. Blair said that he entered the war against Iraq because he genuinely felt that Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction and his decision had nothing to do with President’s Bush influence. For years Blair has been singing that song. Suppose Blair is right. Suppose in his mind he thought Saddam Hussein was a threat to British global interests. But if we accept the psychology paradigm how can we detect that people like Blair are lying? We will return to Blair in a few paragraphs below. Donald Ramotar, Anil Nandlall, and Hydar Ally have written letters to the newspaper at least once a week since July 2015. For this week end, Nandlal has two, Ally has two. In not even one of those letters, is there a tiny reference to a policy that was obnoxious and there have been regrets. Is it possible that all the

PPP leaders believed that during the fifteen years of the reign of Jagdeo and Ramotar they used power in ways that were wholesome and the motive was to do good for the country? Let’s return to Tony Blair. Blair’s perennial explanation has been torn asunder by the Chilcote Report into the British decision to go to war in Iraq. Making use of correspondence between Blair and Bush, Blair is quoted as telling Bush he would accede to any request. What the Chilcote Report revealed is that Blair went to war as a request for assistance by President Bush. The PPP cabals cannot apologise out of the belief that they did no wrong when the forensic audits showed the colossal levels of illegalities and wrong-doings. What the Chilcote Report is to Blair the forensic audits are to the PPP cabals. The PPP leadership sold the Sanata Textile complex to Bobby Ramroop and included a huge water well, property of the State. The PPP permitted radio licenses to twelve recipients just before Jagdeo demitted office and one cannot point to any recipient

Frederick Kissoon in that group that was not cozy with the PPP administration. So are PPP leaders telling us that they acted in good faith when they were in power? Are PPP intellectual defenders telling us that at the psychological level, these PPP kings and queens believe they were serving the interests of the people of Guyana? The revelation by Mr. Insanally on the tape should not surprise anyone. Almost a hundred percent of the population who lived under Jagdeo and Ramotar knew that the framework both men used to distribute power was naked, crude, mordid, incestuousness. Unfortunately those radio license holders are still broadcasting and Mr. Alphonso has a letter from Luncheon to support his license.

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

$1.5B management upgrade programme…

Canadian electricity experts prepare to start training GPL senior staffers Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), under pressure to boost its performance, is embarking on a major programme to upgrade its senior management and executives. The US$7.3M project will see Canada’s Manitoba Hydro International Limited (MHI), over the next three years, providing on-the-job training in the various departments of GPL. Seven utility specialists, targeting technical and administrative areas, will be foot-to-foot with GPL senior management officials, including technical staffers, to attempt to move the power company on par with the rest of the world. GPL Chairman, Robert Badal, during a press conference at the Pegasus Hotel to introduce MHL officials, stressed that the Canadian company will not be running the company but will lend valuable advice and training. The Management Strengthening Programme (MSP) is a component of the US$65M Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)/ European Union (EU) funded Power Utility Upgrade Programme (PUUP). MHI, a few weeks ago, was awarded the three-year training, capacity building, and knowledge transfer contract with GPL, after tendering for the project. IDB selected the company, one of the most significant for power companies in recent years, from a list of other tenders. Among other things MHI will be supporting GPL in its performance of key business areas to improve the utility’s capabilities for

providing an efficient, reliable, and sustainable service. It will support senior management through a combination of classroombased training and on the job training. This one-on-one coaching will address the unique learning and development needs of GPL’s senior management. “MHI will provide formal and informal training focused on industry best practices to assist GPL’s senior management in creating a target state (vision) for the company.” Once the target state is defined, MHI will work closely with GPL management to formulate the business plans aimed at achieving the overall vision. “This plan will include mapping out GPL’s core business processes and looking for ways to improve the overall efficiency of GPL,” the company stated yesterday. MHI will focus on the professional development of GPL’s senior management team. Individual professional development plans will be created to identify the skills and competency requirements for each management position, along with corresponding actions. These actions may include formal classroom type training, less formal on the job training, and ongoing coaching and mentoring from the MHI utility specialists. It is intended for senior managers, to enable them to transfer the benefits of their exposure to their staff. The MHI team will include seven full-time utility specialists and eight short-

term training support specialists. These specialists will work in partnership with GPL staff to achieve the utility’s objectives. MHI said it staff its projects with experienced individuals who are specialised in their field, through a combination of internal, external, and parent company resources. For over 30 years, MHI says it has delivered energy services to clients in over 75 countries. “MHI is dedicated to creating lasting relationships, and collaborating closely with clients to suit their specific needs and achieve their desired outcomes.” In operation for over 130 years, Manitoba Hydro is a vertically integrated, government-owned Canadian Provincial Crown Corporation. The corporation holds in-service assets in excess of $17 billion, generates over $2 billion in annual revenue, and employs over 6,500 utility staff. Manitoba Hydro is a major energy utility that is intimately involved in the planning, design, construction, operation, and

GPL’s Chairman, Robert Badal with the Canadian officials yesterday. maintenance of electricity and gas infrastructure. Present at the press conference at Pegasus Hotel were MHI’s Scott Russell, Ian Paige and Rob Schumann. GPL’s Chief Executive Officer (ag), Renford Homer; and Project Coordinator, Power Utility Upgrade Programme, Donald Nurse were also there.

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Saturday October 15, 2016

Surgeon optimistic about GPHC’s kidney transplant programme The possibility of Guyana being the Caribbean hub for kidney transplants is not a ‘pipe dream’. At least this is according to local Kidney Transplant Surgeon, Dr. Kishore Persaud. It has been almost two years since Dr. Persaud has taken over the reins of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC’) Nephrology Department. Nephrology is the branch of medicine that deals with the physiology and diseases of the kidneys. Dr. Persaud, who studied Medicine at the University of Guyana, completed his kidney transplant fellowship at the University of Calgary in Canada. He is currently ably

supported by a Chinese Nephrologist to head the Nephrology Department. Dr. Persaud, during a recent interview, said that his hope is to help develop GPHC into a transplant centre for the Caribbean. He anticipates that the local hospital will be able to not only offer transplants to Guyanese but even persons within the Caribbean at a cheap cost. Dr. Persaud has already shared ambitious plans for the department he heads. However its realisation would require substantial funding that would more than likely come from the State’s coffers. The Kidney Surgeon has been in the employ of the GPHC for about two years and

has already completed three successful kidney transplant surgeries. Although one of the three patients has since passed on because of a lung infection which was deemed unrelated to the kidney surgery, Dr. Persaud has been able to give two other persons a new lease on life. Among them is a 15-yearold student who is currently preparing to write 13 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects next year. Kidney transplant surgeries are conducted free of cost at the GPHC. However, patients, once they have a suitable donor, are expected to meet the approximately

$1million cost to have tests done ahead of surgery. This money is not paid to the GPHC but rather a Miami University which conducts the tests. “We do not handle the money, the patient takes that money to the bank and sends it to the university...they are not paying anybody here. They pay for the test and we do the surgery for free,” asserted Dr. Persaud. Arrangements are currently being made for approximately four or five surgeries to be conducted before Christmas, the Transplant Surgeon disclosed. There are two types of kidney failure – chronic and acute. And according to Dr.

Dr. Kishore Persaud

Persaud, while it is impossible to reverse damage caused by chronic kidney failure, the acute form of kidney failure is in fact reversible. It wasn’t so long ago that Dr. Persaud had to attend to a 15-year-old girl suffering from acute kidney failure. She was required to undergo a few sessions of dialysis but, according to Dr. Persaud, when she was discharged she was back to normal health and is not expected to undergo another session of dialysis. Chronic kidney failure occurs when the kidneys have been damaged over a period of time. In such cases it is either recommended that patients find a suitable donor and have a kidney transplant or undergo dialysis for the rest of their lives. According to Dr. Persaud, while his Department conducts two clinics – Monday and Friday – weekly, there are two designated operating days, Mondays

and Wednesdays. During these operating days patients with advanced stages of kidney failure undergo dialysis. During dialysis, also referred to as hemodialysis, the blood of a patient is removed from the body and placed through a filter (dialysis machine). This allows for toxins such as urea, potassium and creatinine to be removed thereby cleansing the blood before it is returned to the body. A session of dialysis could span three to five hours and patients may be required to undergo as many as three sessions per week, according to Dr. Persaud. The GPHC also offers a more modern form of dialysis - arteriovenous (AV) fistula. AV fistula is a type of dialysis which medical experts have concluded is among the best options as it has been proven to be less complicated and less expensive. In fact it is believed to allow patients to have a longer life-span.

Another unidentified body found at Mahaicony The body of another unidentified male, who appeared to be in his late 40’s and of African descent, was found yesterday evening floating in a trench at Drill, Mahaicony. A source in that area said that the body had visible marks and his intestines was protruding. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

Saturday October 15, 2016

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Hot plate buses still running amok at city bus park

Ranks of the Guyana Police Force walking by as hot plate bus load passengers

Hot plate bus loading on the old route 45 bus park

The Mayor and City Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure has implemented a new queue system at bus parks in Georgetown to reduce the daily chaos and congestion. The Mayor and City Council had indicated that the City Constabulary will also implement a monitoring and a security system to prevent “hot plating” whereby bus

operators load passengers outside of the authorised area. However the order created by the council was shortlived, as bus operators seem to be stuck in their old ways. Checks by Kaieteur News revealed that some bus operators continue to load their vehicles in this illegal manner. Many are refusing to join the line, choosing to buck the system. Many persons have com-

plained of being victims of robberies due to the congestion caused by these buses. They have lost their phones, purses, wallets and other valuables. Some minibus operators stated that the lawlessness will continue, noting that traffic police fresh out of training school are usually ignored and senior traffic ranks are willfully turning a blind eye to the anarchy.

Prison officer on self bail for assaulting girl, 17 George Solomon was on Thursday placed on self bail after he appeared before Magistrate Brendon Glasford, to answer to a charge of assault. It is alleged that on October 7, last, at the 44 Minibus Park, he unlawfully assaulted Kia Grant. According to Police Prosecutor Preston John, the defendant and Grant are not

known to each other. He said that on the day in question, Solomon approached Grant while she was standing on the bus park with her mother and pointed his hand in her face and a scuffle ensued. The prosecutor said that the defendant then told the young lady, “You see them hard card you does want gave me.”

The matter was then reported to the police station and the defendant was arrested and charged. Attorney George Thomas asked for the prison officer to be released on bail because he is not a flight risk. The matter was adjourned to October 18, and assigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

During the daylight hours there is a noticeable police and city constabulary presence in the Stabroek area. These ranks however, are not as visible during hours of darkness, when most hot plate operators turn the city bus parks into a free for all. The Mayor and City Council exacerbated the problem when it decided to remove

the queues from in front of Stabroek Market square. This area houses the Routes 41, 45 and 46 bus operators and allows for an orderly system of loading. This is no more. Early in February, City Hall deployed City Constabulary ranks onto the streets for traffic management. The ranks have been directing traf-

fic in the city with a special focus on commercial areas. City Hall said that with a batch of its own officers responsible for traffic law enforcement on the streets and bus parks of Georgetown, it will complement the Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department and there can be order in the public transport system.

Woman remanded for damage to property Naomi Williams appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer to the charge of damage to property, on Thursday. It is alleged that on October 9, at Seven Miles, Mahdia, the 25-year-old woman of Lot 62 Norton Street, Lodge, unlawfully and maliciously set fire to the dwelling house of Phillip Narine. She pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to

her by Magistrate Judy Latchman. It is also alleged that on the same day in question she unlawfully and maliciously damaged a quantity of household appliances which value over $1.3M. Some of the household appliances that were destroyed included -one music set, two bed frames, and one fuel pump all being the said property of Phillip Narine. Police Prosecutor Vishnu

Hunt objected to bail citing the penalty of the charge. The Prosecutor went on to say that the defendant gives a different address to the court and if granted bail, it’s likely that she would not return to court. Magistrate Judy Latchman remanded the defendant to prison and ordered that she make her next court appearance on October 25 before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

PAGE 22

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, C a n a da & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 6267040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045 RAMDASS VISA APPLICATION & immigration services, room A-4, Maraj Building, Georgetown. Call Samantha: 227-0295; 6159295 Eagle’s: Re-gas -$8,000, Washing machine repairs, Gas Stove, Plasma flat Screen & more. Call: 6972969/646-0966 Hello the doctor is back! Have your gas stove service and repairs. Call: 601-0595 Guytec Repairs Services & Spares to washing machines, pressure w a s h e r, d r y e r, s t o v e s , r e f r i g e r a t o r, t r e a d m i l l , vacuum, etc –Call: 6802377 Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:629-4946 or 225-4822

Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)

FOR SALE

WANTED

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

Experienced taxi drivers (hire car) and dispatcher at Princess Ramada Hotel. Call: 265-7076/ 616-5419

SALON

Cargo Trawler. Call: 682-8724; 616-5954

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

Vehicle lights, parts, mud flap and bumper on sale: Premio, Allion, Bus, Spacio, Raum, 212 Rav 4. Call:628-5000 Taxi service for sale, prime location, serious inquiries only. Call: 695-0704 GE Gas Range/Stove, stand up freezer, supermarket mirror, hot dog machine, 2 Stihl Brush Cutters. Call: 680-3863

TO LET Apartments for rent preferably working professionals -$70,000. Call: 227-5194 1-3 Bedrooms apartment at Better Hope, Back Street, East Coast Demerara. Call: 220-1583 1-3 Bedrooms upper flat with master bedroom. 1-2 Bedroom bottom flat, fenced yard @ Tuschen Housing Scheme. Call: 692-5525/ 2663973 Newly constructed building having three kitchenettes for single persons on West Side. Call:617-0055/689-9898 One bottom flat to rent in Diamond Housing Scheme. Call: 678-3388 Two bedrooms bottom flat to let @ Eccles. Call: 662-3837/ 670-0878/ 233-5365

HEALTH Your health can improve. Contact Hazel’s Herbal Store. Call: 226-9136

Need a fast & reliable delivery service? Delivery of meals, documents, groceries & more. SmartCart Delivery. Call: 225-9727/679-7575/6196218 Need water on your agriculture land? Contact: 676-0455

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

Empty 20’ container in excellent condition, please call: 225-7352/690-3575 Items for sale panel doors (36" x 83"), living room set, used clothing. Call 231-1284 Pools table cloth, balls, cue stick, coins, coinshute, pocket, rubber, chalk, springs, tips, spots. Call:669-9927 1 45" Complete cabin Cruiser, trout seine, excellent condition. Call: 654-2817/ 6570044/625-8522 Organic Potting Soil -$900, Lawn Grass -$1,400, Ficus 4 @$1,000, Exora 4 @ $1,000, also Palms & Flowers. Call: 626-1044 1- CAT 320 BL Excavators, 1 CAT 930 Front End Loader. 1-55 Leyland DAF Truck, 1 CAT D4H Bulldozer. Call: 2750538/ 683-7225 Double Steel Wheeled Roller, 1 Mack Concrete mixer truck. Call: 275-0538/ 683-7225 FOR SALE/RENT House for rent/ sale @ Lot 107 Durbana Square Lamaha Gardens with 5 bedrooms large parking. Call: 661-8908

Male sales assistant /porters with sound secondary education & recommendation @ KeyFood Trading, Mc Doom Village. 1 Driver for office in Eccles. Call: 233-2745

Unregistered Bluebird 2011 Model, Tiida Latio 2010 model, Rush 2006 model( TV, Reverse Camera). Call: 6553400

Upper flat for rent 3 bedrooms in Atlantic Gardens- Call: 227-4377/2270613/624-6013

Office space to rent in Queenstown. Call: 615-2615

Live in waitresses to work in bar– Call:692-4649/604-6606

Not working Vehicles: 1 Surf, 2 Pathfinders, 1 Bobcat, 3 Toyota Cars, 1 Canter, 1 Fiber glass boat. Call: 227-4377/ 624-6013

General workers, handyman to work at Hotel, apply in person @ 12 Henry Street, Werk- en-Rust. Call: 223-6284

1 Toyota AT192, Carina and 1 Mitsubishi Dingo for sale, excellent condition. Call: 6950704

1 Domestic worker @ Dr. Miller Street Must be hardworking and trustworthy, ages40-55. Call: 220-7747

Entertainment Manager to work in the Essequibo Coast: must have experienced in promotions, events & hotel managements. Call: 226-9768 Driver for taxi- Call: 646- 8748 Driver with minibus license living in Georgetown for job with company. Call: 664-0802 Sales Clerk, must be able bodied ages 18-30yrs. Call: 643-7193

Toyota Vigo Jeep, Nissan Pathfinder, Carina, 212 and Toyota Ipsum- Immaculate Condition. Call: 609-7766 One pit-bull BTT series, in good condition, alarm, etc, price $2.8M negotiable. Call: 685-9787/ 612-3456/691-8272 2005 Tacoma -$2.4M, Massey Tractor from Canada: MF 165 $1.7M, MF 135 $1.2M –MF 265 $2.2M, 165 Loader -$2.3M – Call: 682-5230; 628-9596 Blowout Car Sale!!! IST$2.1M, Spacio-$2.1M, Fielder-$2.1M, Audi A4$3.7M. Contact#650-0402/ 260-4988

EDUCATIONAL Classes for slow learners in Reading, Spelling, Mathematics, and much more for children all ages. Call: 675-4379

Toyota Avensis, PRR Series -$2.650M negotiable. Call: 641-7474 1 Pitbull, BVV series, never worked hire, 1 RZ BHH series, 1 Honda, Generator. Call: 678-1511

ACCOMMODATION Harmony Inn: furnished air conditioned apartments & rooms, from $30USD. Call: 218-1400/668-0306/ 694-7817

Career Training: care for the elderly/care for children/first aid & CPR. Guyana Training College. Call: 227-4881

1 Isuzu truck,6 cylinder engine. Contact # 650-0402

International Opportunity: support worker/caregiver Training to live & work in Canada. Guyana Training College. Call: 227-4881

Toyota Raum -$800,000 – Call: 697-2550/ 613-1810

CAR RENTAL

AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL: 4WD PICKUP,. CHEAPEST RATE & SPECIAL RATE FOR LONG TERM . CALL: 698-7807

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

Business bottom flat for rent in New Road, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 227-4377/ 2270613/ 624-6013

IAE – CXC Jan/June 2017 – full time school; lessons/ classes for students, adults, repeaters & beginners. Call Mr. Roberts: 683-5742

DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM

FOR RENT

Benz, Honda Accord Escalade 2012, Jet ski, truck, canter, bus, ATV- 700cc. Call: 628-5000

CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP R E AT E S , S P E C I A L OFFERFOR THE SUMMER. CALL: 690-6494

VEHICLE FOR SALE RZ, Pit Bull, 212 Carina, IST, Verossa, Suzuki Vitaera, Premio, Allion, Fielder Wagon, Spacio- Call: 6507501/ 616-2577

LEARN TO DRIVE C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj BuildingCall: 644-5166; 622-2872; 615-0964; 689-5997 (affordable packages).

Oswin J’s Auto Imports: New Arrivals: Premio, Allion, Fielder, Axio, Rush, X-Trail. Free full coverage insurance. Call: 609-2815

1 RX8 Mazda -$1,000,000 negotiable. Call: 602-6024

Space for rent at Ashmin’s Building. 50% off first month’s rent. Call today: 6837954 Two bedrooms bottom flat in Sophia -$35,000, no children. Call: 613-1847 Self-contained rooms in Prashad Nagar. Tel: 227-2993 Business apartment for rent: 1 snackette include glass cases, warmer & stove, grocery & beer garden @ 7 Durban Street, Lodge. Call: 690-5796 Two 1 bedroom house – Call: 222-3554 2 Bedrooms apartment for rent on E.C.D- Call: 684-8906 One fully furnished two bedrooms house @ Bougainveillea Park, E.B.D, gated community with security guards. Call: 2261234/ 678-1234 One two bedrooms flat concrete house. Call: 6430782 One 3 Bedrooms house located at Timehri, E.B.D $50,000. Call: 672-0470 Three bedrooms bottom flat at 116 Cane View Avenue, South Ruimvedlt Gardens. Call: 218-1688/ 615-0392/6097826 One exclusive three bedrooms apartment @ First Bridge Diamond, E.B.D $70,000. Call: 225-5258/6152622

1RZ Bus, PLL series in excellent condition with A/ C, etc. Price-$1.2M. Call: 6176781 Special Sale: 2009 Belta $2.1M, 2009 Airwave -$2.4M. Call: 617-2891 2009 Raum- $2.4M, 2009 Sienta -$2.4M, 2009 Axio $2.8M, 2009 Fielder -$2.6M. Call: 617-2891

DRESSMAKING Jean offers courses in dressmaking, curtains, floral arrangement, and cake decoration @ 153 Barr Street Kitty. Call: 670-2653/ 638-8449 Continued on page 23

Saturday October 15, 2016

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

Linden Enterprise Network celebrates Agriculture Month Linden Enterprise Network in collaboration with Minister of Housing, Valerie Patterson, launched “Plant a tree” initiative to commemorate Agriculture Month. According to Chairman of LEN, Klensil Grenville, the organisation is taking the initiative to give back something to the community. “So we decided to purchase some plants from NAREI and from some other persons who are farmers and distribute them to the community for free.” Grenville said that as a trial they distributed over 100 fruit plants and it was well accepted by the community so they decided to distribute some more. “We have been able to get 1000 more plants, including some vegetables from a Mr. Isaacs, a farmer.”

From page 28

PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 Seven bedrooms property for sale with huge land space at Ruimveldt Public Road. Call: 609-7766 New Executive European style four bedrooms house at Eccles, all modern conveniences. Call: 609-7766

LEN staff distributing plants to residents.

Sophia baby died from Bronco asphyxiation The babysitter who was arrested on Wednesday after an infant, who was left in her care died, has been released from police custody. This was after a post mortem examination revealed that the child died from bronco asphyxiation. This is a condition where the baby choked on his meal. The PM was done yesterday by Government Pathologist, Dr. Nehaul Singh, at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Six-month-old Deykel Robertson, of 92 Plum Park,

Sophia, was pronounced dead at the Campbellville Health Centre after 12:30 hrs on Wednesday. He died shortly after his babysitter fed him and put him to sleep. The baby’s mother, Shantel Alleyne, explained that she was informed that the woman did not burped the child and this might have contributed in him choking on his porridge after she put him to sleep. I t w a s t h e i n f a n t ’s second day staying at the home of the babysitter who takes care of three other children.

Property with extra large land well built with 2 storey house, good neighborhood. Won’t last. Call: 220-1583 One Roadside, 2 storey building @ V/Hoop (ideally business/residence). Call: 614-0107

in persons in the hinterland. Granger noted that the ‘green’ economy will require significant new local and foreign investment. He said that efforts in this regard will require protection. Since Government recognises the importance of human safety, the Head of State said that a secure environment and legal framework for attracting such investment will be created. “We want to protect our citizens, fisher folk, households and farmlands,” expressed Granger.

Private Sector Commission cautions Govt... From page 7 reported in the media that Cabinet had cancelled an acquisition process and ordered Williams to report on the matter. Williams has since discredited these reports saying that there was no order existing to be cancelled. The AG has said that the two small plots have no building or erections on them and that it is pertinent to note that the former People’s Progressive Party Civic administration had

passed in 2001, the Acquisition for Public Purposes (Amendment) Act. According to the AG, the Act states, “it shall… be lawful under this Act to acquire land for the proposed construction of a public work or for a public purpose whether or not there is any building or erection on such land.” He also said that no acquisition can be done without first engaging the owners of the land and entering into negotiations for the purchase of the land.

Property at South Ruimveldt Park -$39.5M, 6 Bedrooms & 2 & half bathrooms. Call: 6162871/699-6161 Stanford Soloman. Property @ Lot 172 Zohora Street, Better Hope, East Coast Demerara. Call: 220-1583

Deykel Robertson

Efforts underway to ensure a safer Guyana... From page 8 to a reduction in the incidence of piracy. He said that the government will continue to augment the Guyana Police Force’s Marine Branch. Additionally, the President said that the Mounted Branch will also be expanded to enable it to conduct patrols in the savannahs and back-dams, which are not easily accessible by vehicular patrols. He said that the Corps of Wardens will enforce the law with regard to mining, logging, hunting wildlife and trafficking

House & land for sale $22.5M @ La Parfaite Harmonie, W.B.D. Call: Alex: 630-9479

Williams had said that when he entered office, he made attempts to establish a permanent law reform commission and a law-review unit and that the current premises could not accommodate those entities. As a result of this, the option to rent a suitable

building was explored. However, he claimed that he was made aware that there were already attempts by the former government to acquire the lots. The AG contends that the issue of compulsory acquisition was an inherited matter from the PPP/C.

Lot 704 House & Land at Zeelugt, Brother Dam W.C.D -$7M negotiable. Call: 616-5606/ 277-0281 1 Church building in front and 2 story building at the back (W30X6120) @ 180 Charolotte Street Bourda. Call:624-7341/ 227-6817/2265183

VACANCY Ramnarine Mining Enterprise: welders, operators & labourers –Call: 679-0550/ 624-0501 One experienced dispatcher – Call: 231-5784/ 231-4000 Driver for water truck $5,000 per day plus commission. Call: 680-3863 Store sales/customer assistant. Call: 624-0033/6803863 LORRY DRIVER, MINIMUM 3 YEARS EXPERIENCE, FACTORY ASSISTANT 266 5569 H o u s e k e e p e r / c l e a n e r, vacancy @ Aagman Indian Restaurant, 28-A Sheriff Street. Call: 219-0158 One efficient legal computer clerk. Call: 6247087/258-0213 Popular East Coast Gas Station (Non-Pareil) Day/ Night: pump attendants, sales clerk & office assistant. Contact: 695-9880/670-8893 1 Female Kitchen Assistant, 1 Male person to grill meat, must be able to work weekends. Call Mr.Khan: 695-6550; 656-9313 One experienced cook also required to do light house work, between ages 35yrs45yrs. Please Call: 617-9883

House & Land available for sale. Contact Pacific Development Inc: 223-6035/ 227-8274 LAND FOR SALE Land for sale at Eccles and Diamond reasonably price. Call:609-7766 La Parfaite Harmonie $1.3M, prices are negotiable. Call: 690-9645 Diamond -$2.5M, La Parfaite Harmonie $950,000, 50X100 -$3M; Cummings Lodge -$7M, Enterprise Public Road 157X200 -$30M, Schoonard 1st Street. Call: 231-2199/ 618-7483 Land 50ftX175ft located in Friendship, E.B.DPrice$5M negotiable. Call: 645-6498

PAGE 24

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

Online passport applications soon The Ministry of Public Telecommunications will be collaborating with the Ministry of Citizenship to make a more effective passport application system. Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes, told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) would be used to make the process easier and faster. Hughes said that the ministries are working together to get to the stage where persons would not only have the passport forms but would be able to fill it up online and then the staff at the Passport Office would be able to view that form to ensure all the necessary information is provided. The Minister noted that improvements to the system will fast tract the process and the waiting time would be reduced. “The end result is that the whole process that you would have had to come down to the passport office, line up, take a number and sit there for five hours. Not forgetting that unfortunately we have people not from Georgetown but as we saw

US embassy working with Jamaica to curb financial crimes

Minister Cathy Hughes recently people from Berbice, Essequibo, that come down and waste all those hours waiting to be able to get there to hand over their form,” Minister Hughes explained. Hughes said that part of her Ministry’s vision, is to set up a system where more of the stages for the passport application can be done online which would allow for less time spent at the passport office. Earlier in the year Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix, announced that passport services would be decentralised to Linden, while services in Anna Regina and New Amsterdam would com-

Government has announced plans to have passport applications completed online. Luis Moreno mence soon. Information from the Ministry of Citizenship stated that citizens in these locations can apply for renewals of passports and uplift them in the regions. First time applicants would have to travel to Georgetown. The Ministry of Public Telecommunications was established in January 2016 with a mission to have a strategic placement of ICT in Guyana’s development agenda.

Trump vows to stay in race after calls for him to quit over lewd remarks Reuters - U.S. Presidential nominee Donald Trump vowed yesterday to remain in the race even as his campaign was thrown into crisis as his own running mate criticized him and some prominent Republicans withdrew support and urged him to drop out following news of a recording of him making lewd comments in 2005. Trump told the Wall Street Journal yesterday morning “zero chance I’ll quit.” He also told The Washington Post he may deliver a speech Saturday afternoon to address concern among supporters and reiterate his determination to stay in the race. In an unusual move, vice presidential running mate Mike Pence issued a critical statement, posting on the social media website Twitter that he cannot defend the nominee. “As a husband and father, I was offended by the words and actions described by Donald Trump in the elevenyear-old video released yesterday,” Pence, who is governor of Indiana, said in a statement. “I do not condone his remarks and cannot defend them.”

Donald Trump

A hastily recorded apology by Trump early yesterday morning did not stymie an avalanche of calls from members of his party to quit. At least three Republican members of the Senate announced they will not vote for him and former rival Carly Fiorina called on him to withdraw. The 2005 video of Trump talking on an open microphone showed the then-reality TV star speaking openly about groping women and trying to seduce a married woman. The video was taped only months after Trump mar-

ried his third wife, Melania. Trump quickly moved to conduct damage control in yesterday’s video in which he declared himself a changed man and attempted to shift the focus to his opponent, Democrat Hillary Clinton. He threatened, again, to focus his attacks on the infidelities of her husband, former President Bill Clinton, saying he would talk more about the pasts of both Clintons with only a month until the Nov. 8 election. Trump has dismissed questions about his own marital infidelities as irrelevant. Trump took to Twitter yesterday morning, seeming to make light of the controversy by posting: “Certainly has been an interesting 24 hours!”

KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — United States ambassador to Jamaica, Luis Moreno, says the US Mission in Jamaica is working closely with local stakeholders to curb financial crimes and boost regulatory compliance of financial institutions. This is in response to the threat of international correspondent banks cutting ties with local and regional financial institutions in a move to eliminate risk of crimes such as money laundering, fraud and terrorism financing. Moreno, addressing the final day of the fifth AntiMoney Laundering/CounterFinancing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Conference in Kingston on Tuesday, said his Mission recognises the critical nature of correspondent banking relationships to the local economy. As such, he said the Embassy is seeking to help local partners build capacity, increase transparency and comply with the regulatory framework of the US. “We have mutual interest in fighting the scourge. We are partners in this effort; and together, through more dialogue and action, we can combat money laundering

and the financing of terrorism without sacrificing the important correspondent banking relationships,” Moreno said. He noted that the US Embassy has offered training in best practices to law-enforcement, prosecutors and other stakeholders on how to combat financial crimes. They also provide training to investigators at the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) and the Financial Investigations Division (FID) and help in criminal investigations that lead to money-laundering charges. Moreno said the Embassy has also trained regulators in non-financial sectors, such as realtors, accountants and attorneys, as well as professionals from the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission and the Casino Gaming Commission in developing sound practices to ensure risk of money laundering and terrorism financing are understood, identified and reported. “We work with our counterparts, law enforcement and regulatory, to develop and share money-laundering and terrorism-financing

methods and trends,” he said. The US Embassy also has an ongoing Jamaica Operations Linked to Telemarketing (JOLT) Task Force designed to facilitate identification, investigation and prosecution of telemarketers who victimise US and Jamaican citizens. “Deficiencies in antimoney laundering and counter-financing of terrorism are a few drivers of de-risking that jurisdictions can address. It is essential that countries and their financial institutions work to improve their controls, and it’s also important that they publicise the efforts in an increasingly riskaverse economic climate,” he said. He said the US government is working to develop appropriate policy responses to advance the objective of combating financial crimes, while also providing and promoting financial inclusion. Correspondent banking involves a bank in one country facilitating certain services for a financial institution in another country, including wire transfers, business transactions, deposits and gathering of documents. Over the last five years, a number of international banks have restricted or ended their relationship with the region due to concerns about money laundering, fraud and terrorist financing. The two-day conference, to facilitate discussion on strengthening compliance, was hosted by the Jamaica Bankers Association (JBA) and the Jamaica Institute of Financial Services (JIFS), under the theme ‘Understanding our obligations… Safeguarding our Future’.

Barbados Govt. prepared to ease ganja restrictions One day after Prime Minister Freundel Stuart told church leaders the “nefarious” illegal drug – as well as firearms – trade was “haunting” the country and threatening the very safety and security of the Barbadian family, it emerged yesterday that Government was examining the possible use of marijuana for medical purposes. Senior Medical Officer Dr Kenneth George revealed at a conference on the availability and rational use of opioids that the Ministry of Health was undertaking research into the use of medical marijuana in palliative care.

Dr George told the gathering hosted by the International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care, the ministry was collecting “evidence” for use of the drug as a remedy against pain for patients suffering from chronic diseases and cancer. “The Ministry of Health is currently gathering the evidence with respect to marijuana use in well-defined clinical situations that will include assisting persons in pain management for cancers and chronic degenerative diseases,” he told the medical practitioners and pharmacists gathered at the Hilton Barba-

dos Resort. The senior medical official said Barbados has been the primary supplier of opioids to Eastern Caribbean countries, and he argued that the use of such drugs, as well as painkillers, was a pivotal part of the palliative process. “Although the majority of patients with cancer have pain, proper use of opioids and adjuvant drugs can provide adequate relief in most cases. Opioids are the mainstay of pain control in patients with advanced disease, and they are effective in treating most types of pain,” he explained.

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Saturday October 15, 2016

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

Police probe ordered on AG’s children gun issue Trinidad Express - Acting Police Commissioner Harold Phillip has ordered an investigation into how the children of Attorney General Faris alRawi came to be holding high-powered military weapons. The Express also understands here is no written police record that Al-Rawi received any death threats that prompted the gun training of his two young children. While Al-Rawi has not yet confirmed that the pictures are of his children, both Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and the Defence Force, in their respective statements, have linked the children to Al-Rawi. On Tuesday, Oropouche West Member of Parliament Dr Roodal Moonilal brought the pictures to Parliament and questioned why the children were holding high-powered rifles. Without confirming they were his children, Al-Rawi later said he had received death threats and his family had to be assessed. The Express has learned Al-Rawi never made a report to the police about the death threats he allegedly received which led to a security assessment with the Defence Force. Al-Rawi is a member of the National Security Council and as such could have made a

verbal report to senior police personnel, but to date there is no official police record that death threats were made against him. Two former attorneys general are saying that is not how death threats are handled. Former People’s National Movement (PNM) attorney general, John Jeremie yesterday confirmed he too received death threats during his tenure but said in a telephone interview that “that is not the protocol”. He said his death threat “was a matter of public

record”. He said after the police do a threat assessment, then there would be an increase in the level of security for the AG and his family. Jeremie refused to comment on the other issues surrounding the release of the pictures and said he would not comment on the issue of whether children needed to be assessed with guns. Former United National Congress attorney general Anand Ramlogan also denied he received similar facilities by the Defence Force when he received death threats during his time as AG. “Neither my family nor I was ever offered or received any training from any military, police or any other security agency during my tenure notwithstanding death threats reported to the Commissioner of Police,” Ramlogan said. He said once a threat was received and assessed, the protocol was that security would be increased. “It never involved training with firearms or weapons of any kind,” he said. When asked if the Defence Force ever offered him or his family access or use of their facilities, Ramlogan said “never ... because to do so would be plainly illegal”. “It is not possible under the laws of Trinidad and Tobago,” he said.

Port-au-Prince (AFP) Haiti is due to hold long-delayed presidential and legislative elections on November 20, followed by a second round on January 29, the provisional elec-

toral council said yesterday. Haitians had been due to head to the polls last week, but the vote was postponed due to the havoc caused by deadly

Hurricane Matthew. The impoverished Caribbean nation’s last elections, in 2015, were canceled amid violence and massive fraud, leaving the country stranded in political limbo ever since.

Harold Phillip

Delayed Haiti elections to take place November 20

PAGE 27

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Saturday October 15, 2016

Walker denounces CCJ referendum: ‘not a priority at this time’ Daily Observer - While he conceded that Antigua & Barbuda should accede to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) some time in the future, the Political Leader of the Barbuda People’s Movement (BPM), Trevor Walker, has dismissed the upcoming referendum as not a priority for the people of Barbuda. His rejection of the timing of the public education campaign on the CCJ and the Privy Council comes as the National Coordinating Committee (NCC) responsible for the campaign under-

takes a schedule of public sensitisation on the isle. “Speaking as a Barbudan, and from the perspective of someone living here, I am totally against dealing with that particular issue at this time… I will not be supporting the move at this time to change from the Privy Council…” Walker declared. He spoke to OBSERVER media during a brief interview Thursday. During a public consultation on the evening of October 12, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Barbuda, Arthur Nibbs indicated that

he was so much in favour of the CCJ that he though it “a pity” that the transition required the process of a referendum. “It’s a pity…that we would require two-thirds majority. As a politician, that is a tall order. At the same time, constitutions are not supposed to be things that would be changed haphazardly,” he remarked. Nibbs added, “Being the parliamentary representative, I would do all in my power to persuade my constituents to go the route of the CCJ.”

Govt. Defends Almost $5m Spending To Host T&T PM, Delegation

T&T Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley is introduced to the Jamaican welcoming party by Prime Minister Andrew Holnes upon his arrival to the island in July. Opposition member Lambert Brown is questioning Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith (second right in photo) why the leaders couldn’t have their talks when they meet at regional meetings that occur throughout the year. The Gleaner - The Government says almost $5 million spent for July’s visit by Trinidadian Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley “was money well spent” despite concerns from Opposition Senators that the money could have been used to help “poor people”. Opposition member Lambert Brown questioned Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith in the Senate yesterday morning on why the leaders couldn’t have their talks when they meet at regional meetings that occur throughout the year. According to him, the money could have been spent elsewhere in the public service such as healthcare. However, Johnson Smith argued that other meetings of regional leaders such as the

last Caribbean Community heads of government meeting which preceded Rowley’s visit, are not sufficient for “scope, depth and extent” of talks that were necessary between Rowley and Prime Minister Andrew Holness. She also noted that, among other things, the two countries agreed on important development issues such as energy and sport cooperation. Rowley, who came on the invitation of Holness, said his visit was to avert a ‘trade war’. A full statement on the visit will be made later on to the Senate, the foreign minister said. The Opposition member Brown raised the issue over his dissatisfaction with Johnson Smith’s response to questions tabled in July, querying the data used

by Jamaica to write to Trinidad and Tobago in April, over immigration issues that have plagued the relationship between the two countries in recent years. Johnson Smith admitted she did not have all the data to question Trinidad but Brown insisted she was misleading the Senate. “We seem to live in a reality where people can say something and it become so,” she said, angering Brown and forcing a brief intervention by the Senate President Tom Tavares Finson. The Gleaner obtained information in September under the Access to Information Act showing that it cost taxpayers $4.6 million to host Rowley, his wife and a delegation for the July 17-21 official visit.

Saturday October 15, 2016

Windies A square series after crushing victory Pallekele, Sri Lanka, CMC – West Indies A produced another clinical performance to crush Sri Lanka A by a massive 333 runs in yesterday final day of the second four-day “Test”, and square their three-match series at 11. The Caribbean side bundled out the hosts for a meagre 147 in their second innings, an hour after lunch at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, to complete a dominant outing and make amends for their sevenwicket defeat in the first “Test” in Colombo last week. West Indies A were propelled by their trio of seamers as Delorn Johnson (2-13), Kemar Roach (2-24) and Keon Joseph (2-30) all picked up two wickets apiece while left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie-Kanhai claimed two for 33. Jeffrey Vandersay top-

scored with 47 batting at number nine and Charith Asalanka hit 34 but Sri Lanka A failed to come to grips with the Windies A attack. Resuming at 36 for two, the hosts lost Avishka Fernando for 18 in the second over of the day with no addition to the score, caught at the wicket off Joseph. Three overs later with just three runs added, Fernando’s overnight partner Roshen Silva followed after adding one run to his morning score of 11, when he was run out and when Asela Gunaratne perished for five to Joseph 18 balls later, Sri Lanka A were tottering on 42 for five. Left-arm seamer Johnson bowled wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella for six in the next over at 50 for six before a couple of small partnerships held up Windies A’s march to victory. Asalanka put on 27 for the seventh

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

wicket with Anuk Fernando (16) and added a further 30 for the eighth with Vandersay – a stand which ensured the hosts reached lunch at 101 for seven. Left-hander Asalanka faced 66 balls and struck four fours while Vandersay attacked, striking six fours and three sixes off 70 deliveries. Roach returned to get Fernando and off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall accounted for Asalanka in the fifth over after lunch. When MotieKanhai got his first wicket of the game by bowling Lahiru Kamara without scoring, Sri Lanka A were on the brink of defeat at 116 for nine. It was then Vandersay counter-attacked, scoring all 31 runs of the last wicket stand with Asitha Fernando before falling lbw to MotieKanhai. The final four-day “Test” starts in Dambulla next Tuesday.

Wolf Challenge Cup

Wellman, Regal, Parika Defenders and Albion through to semis Regal, Wellman, Parika Defenders and Albion have booked their places in the semifinals of the Wolf’s Challenge Cup after recording victories in their respective quarterfinals on Sunday last. Wellman defeated Wolf’s Warriors by 39 runs. Batting first, Wellman scored 165-8 from their allotment of 20 overs. Latchman Kallicharran made 46 while Ken Dindayal got 26. B. Hassan and H. Dhanraj picked up two wickets each. Wolf Warriors Masters were bowled out for 126. Eon Lovell (2-12), Latchman Kallicharran (2-21) and Lakeram Singh (2-21) were the main wicket takers for Wellman with only Ragunandan Narine 23 and Hassan 22 showing any resistance. Regal Masters defeated Fisherman Masters by seven wickets. After taking

first strike, Fisherman’s Masters were bowled out for a paltry 103 in the 19th over. Troy Kippings and Raymond Harper claimed four wickets each while Shaheed Mohamed picked up two; Jagdesh Persaud and R. Wilson made 20 runs apiece. Regal responded with 1043 in 13.3 overs. Fazleem Mohamed struck 64 and Eon Abel 34. B. Heeralall snared 2-13. Parika Defenders overcame H.S Masters by six wickets. H.S Masters got to 145-4 taking first strike. Basil Bidasie made 37 and Ricky Persaud 22; Fazil Mohamed had 2-18. Defenders responded with 146-4 in 17 overs. D, Singh stroked 65 and Ucil Armstrong 29. Albion Masters beat Superior Woods by five wickets. Superior Woods batted first and managed 164/6. Fazal Ally made 53 while Rudolph

Rodrigues hit 31. Ramlinggum Mangali snared 3-28 while Veerapen Moonsammy had 212. In reply, Albion led by 67 from Moonsammy and 37 from John Sumair finished on 168-5 in 18 overs. Ron Johnson grabbed 416. In the semi finals which will be played at DCC tomorrow, Wellman will play Parika Defenders on Pitch One at 10:00hrs while on Pitch Two also at 10:00hrs Regal Masters will battle Albion Masters. The final will be contested on October 23 at DCC. In the open category; semi-final one will see Speed Boat taking on Wolf Warriors on Pitch One and Regal AllStars will face Herstelling Raiders on Pitch Two from 13:00hrs. Trophy Stall Angels, Wellwoman, 4R Lioness and Enterprise Divas will contest the female semifinals on October 23.

Taylor re-signs for champions... Saturday October 15, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You should be getting into self-improvement projects. Reevaluate your situation. Don't be afraid of opposition; your suggestions are valid. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Plan your social events carefully. Travel or short trips will probably be your best outlet. This is not the time to lend or borrow money or possessions. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Get involved in worthwhile endeavors and meet new friends. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You can make money if you concentrate on producing services that will make domestic chores easier. Too much talk might lead to hassles. Passion will be your only answer. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Think about your priorities. Visitors may drop by unexpectedly, resulting in tension with your lover. You are in a high energy, get it all done, mood and you'll have little patience with those who are slacking off. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) If you can't trust someone, question the connection. Be prepared to make compensations and adjustments. If you're willing to cut loose you will find yourself in the midst

of an exciting encounter. LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Concentrate on your career and on making money. Be creative in your pursuits. You need to spend some time reflecting on past experiences and involvements. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Try to visit a country that excites you. New emotional connections can be made through business contacts. Opportunities for new romantic encounters will unfold through the social events you attend. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You could receive recognition for a job well done. Extravagance will be a problem. Socializing or travel will lead to partnerships. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You may have a hidden adversary who would love to prove you wrong. You can come up with solutions to the problems responsible for inefficiencies at work. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You will reap the rewards for your kind actions. Things are looking up. You will find their philosophies worth exploring. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your desire for excitement and adventure may be expensive. You can sort out any differences you have in an amiable manner.

(From page 26) Jo Broadbent said Taylor’s capabilities would be of value to the franchise once again. “She’s probably one of the strongest hitters in the game I’ve ever seen, even comparing her to someone like Karen Rolton (former Australia Women’s captain)” Broadbent said. “She’s very athletic in the field and good part-time offspinner for us as well.” Taylor will team up with Thunder captain and main batter Alex Blackwell who topped the franchise run-scoring list last season with 410 runs. And the free-scoring West Indies batsman said she was looking forward to reuniting with her skipper. ”I love to get in Alex’s ear.

Sunburst brand... (From page 29) he was a bit unlucky suffering mechanical problems, but assured his following that come race day he will be prepared to upstage the opposition and regain his title. Additionally, Vieira confirmed that at least two riders from North America will be coming here to participate in the Meet and this according to him will allow them to have a true assessment of where they are in terms of their ability. He then thanked Sunburst for its continued support to his career and promised an excellent performance come race day.

I think she’s one of those players you can talk to, especially about captaincy as she’s been playing a long time,” Taylor said. “It’s good to be around

someone like that, who is very positive. I really enjoyed my time with her.” The Women’s Big Bash runs from December 10 to January 28, 2017.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 30

Saturday October 15, 2016

Ituni identified for ABSAA Bolt sets last race in Ituni, a small community located on the long trail from Linden to Kwakwan and rich in bauxite deposit is the location designated to host the Alex Bunbury Sports and Academics Academy (ABSAA). Yesterday, during a Press Conference that was held at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Minister within the Ministry of Education Nicolette Henry announced that Ituni is being earmarked as the site where the proposed ABSAA will be constructed, making it Guyana’s first modern multipurpose sport and educational facility. H e n r y, w h o h a s responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport told the gathering that included Alex Bunbury, his brother Samuel Bunbury, National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman Ivan Persaud, Wo m e n ’s F o o t b a l l Association President C h a r m i n e Wa d e a n d ABSAA Secretary James P a u l S n r, t h a t “ t h e government is extremely happy to be a part of it, the plan is to have a plot of land located in the Ituni area given to this project where a modern state of the art facility is intended to be located to meet the needs of many Guyanese in the various sporting disciplines”. Henry said Bunbury’s story is one of inspiration, to show if you invest in young people and provide them with opportunities what can become of them, adding that through the initiative, she is looking forward to the emergence of many more Alex Bunburys. She took the opportunity on behalf of the Government to applaud Bunbury on the creation of the initiative and promised that they will stand able and ready to be an active partner in ensuring that the project becomes a reality. In response to the question of how the Government views the proposal and what it means to them, the Minister said “It provides an excellent opportunity to have exposure that is second to none. There is great potential in this, from what I understand our young people right here in Guyana would be able to have the type of exposure that other young people around the world are having that puts them at an advantage. So it will certainly reduce the disparity and bring our young people closer to that

place where they can perform at a comparable level”. Responding to the question of what other form of assistance the Government is willing to offer beside the land, Minister Henry said they are working in collaboration with the ABSAA to have the land available and the groundwork laid, but noted that whatever else is needed after that will evolve overtime. She added that government’s support will emerge as the project evolves, informing that the agreement is not cast in stone. ”If they are opportunities for us to support beyond having a site and a location available, government will chip in because it is important. It aligns well with the government’s strategic objective of providing opportunities and infrastructure for people, not only in sports, but many other areas that young people are engaged,” Henry posited. She stated that as the initiative evolves it is expected that government’s contribution would evolve as well. According to the Minister she could not say x, y and z, but as things roll out there will be many opportunities for them to seize and make good use of. On the question of whether there will be any provision for funding for the project in the 2017 budget, she replied by saying that the current policy for funding sports is through subventions and currently there are no provisions for the project in the upcoming financial plan, but did not rule out the possibility of support being extended through the current framework. Bunbury in his presentation affirmed that the project is not solely geared towards football, but caters for the adaptation of other disciplines. ”Everyone that is participating in sports, this facility and this initiative is for them. It will give them a safe haven so that they can express themselves, grow and become the next Alex Bunbury and go beyond that. I am not here for football or politics I am here for the love of my country and the love of young people. Ituni where we visited yesterday is absolutely gorgeous, it’s in the interior and it will serve people if we get this right

and do this it’s going to be phenomenal for Guyana. There is still a lot of work to be done, but this is a stepping stone for something marvelous,” Bunbury declared. In answer to the query of the likely start of construction and if there is a timeline for the project to be completed, he said the objective is not really about the timeframe, but more importantly it is about doing it the right way, being transparent, ensuring that all the ‘T’s’ are crossed and the ‘I’s’ dotted. He underscored the importance of the process being transparent and above board for the government, adding that getting the support of the Government was critical for the i n i t i a t i v e ’s e x e c u t i o n . ”We had to do our due diligence and provide tangible data and things that they can see the vision that we put in front of them so I will be remiss to say a specific timeframe, but we are doing everything to make it transparent and hopefully we will have a timeframe setup in a short period of time” Persaud said “I am extremely happy to be here in what is an historic day for sports in Guyana. I think I say this on behalf of all the other commissioners of the NSC who are not here today. One of the only things we are asking and hoping that this project would provide a safe environment, a place where talented athletes of Guyana can come together and not wonder about the colour of their skin or any other religious belief they may have and be able to be motivated in this environment to do the best they can, to follow a career path that will include educational sports, something which we have always been longing for in Guyana” He said after speaking to Bunbury and his team, he left with the sense that the project is going to be the start of an initiation school where elite athletes can begin. “I am also proud to sit as the Chairman of the NSC knowing that our honorable Minister really endorsed this programme and being a valued partner in this whole scenario of sports in Guyana. He congratulated the Minister for taking up the mantle and representing the NSC and by extension the Ministry.

Jamaica for June

Usain Bolt celebrates winning the Jamaican team’s gold medal. REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach J a m a i c a ’s O l y m p i c sprint champion Usain Bolt will run his last race on home soil at June’s Racers Grand Prix before retiring from competition two months later, he said yesterday. The 30-year-old, who won the 100 meters at this

year’s Racers Grand Prix, has already said he plans to retire from the sport after the Aug. 5-13 world championships in London having won nine Olympic gold medals. ”The Racers Grand Prix will be my last race in Jamaica people, it will be the

last time I run in Jamaica,” B o l t t o l d Te l e v i s i o n Jamaica’s “Smile Jamaica” morning magazine program. The Racers Grand Prix will be held on June 10. The Jamaican, who drew down the curtain on his Olympic career in August by securing a sweep of the sprint titles for a third successive Games, will resume training next month. Bolt has wild card entries for both the 100 and 200 meters at the worlds but remains undecided on whether he will run one or both events, saying only it will be his last competition. ”Yes I am definitely going to retire after the world championships in London, that will be my last one,” said Bolt. (Reuters)

Infantino fires back at Loew over World Cup criticism FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said Joachim Loew needs to be more open to helping football’s development after the Germany coach criticized plans to expand the World Cup. Loew, whose Germany side won the 2014 World Cup, has criticized Infantino’s plans to increase the amount of teams from 32 to 40 or 48 and said it would dilute the quality of the tournament. ”It’s easy for the world champions to have an opinion about the World Cup,” Infantino told reporters yesterday. “What can I say to him? That he must be open to renewal, for football, for football development. “Not everyone has the chance to qualify for the World Cup every time like Germany do.” The FIFA council is studying proposals for the format and size of the 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino. REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann World Cup. These range from keeping the current 32-team competition, to a 48-team tournament put forward by Infantino last week. The council is due to make a decision by Jan. 10. (Reuters)

Taylor re-signs for champions Thunder Sydney, Australia, CMC – West Indies Women’s captain, Stafanie Taylor, is set to return to Sydney Thunder for next December’s Women’s Big Bash, after signing with the franchise for a second season. The 25-year-old righthander is one of the leading batters in the women’s game and was a major success for Thunder last season as they captured the inaugural Twenty20 title. ”It’s good to be back in the green, I enjoyed my first

Stafanie Taylor season, I had a good time [and] I think the competition was really good,” the Jamaican batting star said. “[Australia] is one of my favourite places to play. I

think the competition is really competitive, playing with world-renowned p l a y e r s . I t ’s a g o o d standard.” Taylor was sixth on the run-scorers list for the last Big Bash, finishing with 393 runs at an average of 32 with two half-centuries. She also grabbed ten wickets with her off-spin at an average of 24 and an economy rate of six, and her all-round abilities made her an important asset to Thunder. Thunder head coach (Continued on page 25)

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

PAGE 31

Pakistan v West Indies, 1st Test, Dubai, 2nd day

Azhar’s triple-century cements Pakistan’s dominance

Confronted with bowling that was toothless at best and ragged at worst, Azhar Ali marched to 302 not out, becoming the fourth Pakistan player to score a Test triple-hundred. Azhar’s marathon 469-ball knock anchored Pakistan’s firstinnings total of 579 for 3 declared, before West Indies moved to 69 for 1 in the 22

overs they had to face till stumps. After having shared a 215-run opening stand with Sami Aslam on the first day, Azhar was well supported on the second day too, first by Asad Shafiq and then by debutant Babar Azam, before Misbah-ul-Haq played an attacking cameo leading into the declaration.

England Women beat West Indies by 112 runs – 3rd ODI Kingston, Jamaica, CMC – England Women defeated West Indies Women by 112 runs in the third One-Day International of the five-match series at Sabina Park yesterday. Scores: ENGLAND WOMEN 220 all out off 49.5 overs (Lauren Winfield 79, Natalie Sciver 58; Afy Fletcher 2-32, Deandra Dottin 2-45). WEST INDIES WOMEN 108 all out off 35.4 overs (Shaquana Quintyne 21, Deandra Dottin 20; Jenny Gunn 2-8, Alex Hartley 2-25).

Pakistan scored at well over 4 runs an over on day two, adding 300 runs in 65.3 o v e r s a s We s t I n d i e s progressively fell to pieces with the ball and in the field. Resuming the day on 146, Azhar was solid and assured right from the outset and displayed more of the lovely drives and powerful cuts and pulls that lit up the first day. He went into tea at 194, but got to his milestone within two balls of the resumption of play - a leg-side delivery from Shannon Gabriel was tucked fine for four, after which a wide one was cut past backward point for the four that took him past 200. A salute and a set of nine push-ups followed; by that stage, West Indies’ fielders looked too ragged to follow suit. It took Azhar only a further 112 balls to bring up his triple-ton, powering his side towards a declaration that put West Indies out of their misery. Azhar and Shafiq had added 73 runs to the overnight total of 279 for 1, taking their second-wicket partnership to 137. The pair built on their solid platform with relative ease, facing little pressure either from West Indies’ bowlers or from a pink ball that did not do much in the air. While Shafiq played the odd false shot, Azhar looked compact and sharp, quick to pounce on width and short balls. He greeted Roston Chase with successive lofted shots for four and six, and also played a number of assured sweep shots. The partnership ended when Shafiq drilled a return catch to Devendra Bishoo to depart for 67. That moment of success provided only fleeting relief for West Indies; Azam came in and settled down swiftly to provide capable support to Azhar. He glided his way to a half-century that seemed to come far too easily, before driving to cover to give West Indies their second and last breakthrough of the day. Thereafter, Azhar and Misbah added 62 off 76 in a partnership that wasn’t particularly graceful - with a number of skied miscues b u t s e r v e d P a k i s t a n ’s purpose. Azhar brought up his triple-century in much the

same manner as he had brought up his century, with a drive wide of mid-off for four. On that jubilant note, Pakistan declared. West Indies had their moments, but were not able to capitalise on them. Bishoo found Azam’s outside edge early in his innings, only for the ball to fly to the right of slip. A few overs later, Chase got Azhar to nick to slip, where Jermaine Blackwood spilled a sharp chance that should have been taken. A more judicious use of reviews would also have helped. Gabriel, who clocked up impressive speeds in the first over of the day, seamed one back into Shafiq that clipped the top of his back pad on its way to the wicketkeeper. The appeal, seemingly for a caught behind, was turned down, but replays indicated that the ball would have gone on to hit enough of the top of middle for the batsman to overturn the notout decision. West Indies didn’t review. The review West Indies did opt for left them redfaced. Jason Holder bowled an indipping low full toss at Azhar, went up in appeal for lbw and reviewed the not-out decision, believing the ball had brushed pad before bat. Replays, however, showed that the ball had gone nowhere near the pad and had been middled. These errors paled in comparison with West Indies’ shoddy bowling and often-farcical fielding. Bishoo and Miguel Cummins released the early pressure that Gabriel and Holder had created. While Bishoo bowled a number of short balls and half-volleys,

Kraigg Brathwaite prepares to cut ©Getty Images

Cummins repeatedly drifted onto the batsmen’s pads. Gabriel bowled a terrible spell after tea in which he struggled for line and length and bowled three big noballs - and at least another three that were not called. In the closing stages of the day, Pakistan’s bowlers provided a contrast to West Indies’ effort. Sohail Khan and Mohammad Amir bowled a fuller length and got good shape on the new ball, while Yasir Shah got more grip and

turn than the West Indies spinners had managed at any stage. He was rewarded with the wicket of Leon Johnson, whom he trapped in front for 15. But Kraigg Brathwaite and Darren Bravo then provided a reminder of how good the wicket still was, batting out the rest of the session in solid fashion. With a mountain still to climb, West Indies require much more solidity in the days ahead. (ESPNcricinfo)

Young Warriors CC took first innings from Tucber Park Half centuries by Alex Algoo and Trevon Stanislaus handed host Young Warriors Cricket Club first innings points over Tucber Park in the final preliminary round game of Zone C of the Berbice Cricket Board/New York Business Group two innings Under-19 cricket competition which

c o n t i n u e d r e c e n t l y. Host Young Warriors posted 255 all out after they were inserted. Openers Alex Algoo and Trevon Stanislaus added a century partnership with Algoo scoring 87 (12x4 3x6) and Stanislaus 76 (12x4). Bowling for Tucber Park Deon Sinclair took 3 for 31 and Joel Sietaram 3 for 64.

In reply, Tucber Park fell just short as they were bowled o u t f o r 2 5 0 . Steve Deonarine stroked 104 (11x4 2x6) while Leon Swammy made 49 (4x4) and Seitaram 25. Gevon Schultz claimed 3 for 31, Abdul Ramsammy 3 for 40 and Stanislaus 2 for 65. The competition continues today.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 32

Saturday October 15, 2016

Bahamas to Host 2017 CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship Guyana is one if 16 teams to vie for the regional c/ship & 2 spots to FIFA BSWC Miami, FL – The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) and Beach Soccer Worldwide (BSWW) yesterday announced that the Bahamas will host the 2017 CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship, which has been scheduled for February 20-26, 2017. The Bahamas, also set to host the 2017 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, will welcome the region’s top Beach Soccer national teams to the Caribbean for the tournament that will crown

the CONCACAF champion. ”As Bahamas prepares to be the first Caribbean country to host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in 2017, we are pleased to organize the CONCACAF championship there as well,” said CONCACAF General Secretary Philippe Moggio. “Beach soccer holds a very special place in this nation as displayed when it hosted the Confederation’s qualifying tournament in 2013. We look forward to an exhilarating competition, while leveraging it as a powerful platform to strengthen the game within

our region.” The 2017 CONCACAF B e a c h S o c c e r Championship will include a field of sixteen teams: Caribbean Football Union (CFU): Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands, US Virgin Islands. North America: Canada, Mexico, United S t a t e s Central American Football Union (UNCAF): Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama. Tw o a d d i t i o n a l CONCACAF teams will

RHTY&SC/Beharry say no tournament bowls off tomorrow at Blairmont The historic Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) organised Beharry Say No/Say Yes 5/5 cricket tournament bowls off tomorrow at the Blairmont Cricket Ground with the West Berbice Zone which would be the first of four Zonal rounds that would be played before the grand final on November 13, next. Three teams from each Zone would advance to the finals and get a chance to win the top prize of $150,000 and the Say No/ Say Yes trophy. Secretary/CEO of the RHTY&SC, Hilbert Foster is expected to deliver opening remarks to the teams before tomorrow’s action on the importance of youths saying No to drugs, crime, suicide and Yes to Education, Life and Sports. Each team in the tournament would also receive copies of t h e C l u b ’s Yo u t h Information booklet, posters and educational brochures as part of the Say No/Say Yes promotion. The teams taking part in the West Berbice Zone are Achievers ‘B’, Bush Lot Rising Star, Bush Lot U n i t e d , We l d a a d , D ’ Edward, No. 5, Cotton Tree, Die Hard, D’ Edward ‘B’, Blairmont Centre and Achievers ‘A’. Each team is only allowed two first division

players and are expected to be at the venue by 08:30hrs as the first match bowls off at 09:30hrs sharp. Two matches would be played at the same time and the fixture for the opening round are as follows Achievers ‘B’ vs Bush Lot Rising Star, Bush Lot United vs Weldaad, D’ Edward ‘A’ vs D’ Edward ‘B’, No 5 vs Blairmont Centre and Cotton Tree Die Hard vs Achievers ‘A’. Teams: D’ Edward ‘B’ N. Taikarran, Gansie Lalsa, R. Gavin, P. Sannassi, L. Singh, C. France, D. Mill, M. Dyal, D. Persaud, C. James, T. Andrew, L. Salsa, I. Salsa. Cotton Tree Die Hard Nashad Gafoor, Roshan Gafoor, Pooran Persaud, Jagdeo Persaud, Nick Ramsaroop, Abdool Suban, Waqvir Hassan, Romesh Boodram, Shook Saffie, Abzal Haroon, Ishawar Singh, Kevin Sewthal. D’ Edward ‘A’ – Jaipaul Heeralall, Keith Fraser, Dextar Jones, Heeralall Bridgelall, Eon Abel, Ritesh Bridgelall, Devindra Lalsa, Toney Ramanan, Mahadeo Persaud, Dainauth Persaud, Christian France, Rickey M o o r e , N a v i n Rampersaud, Devindra Singh, Ahaf Khan. Bush Lot – Rajbance Hemraj, Asgar Mahabeek, Dhanraj Ganesh, Christopher Bissoon, Asad Ishawk, Joel Dilchand,

Herall Darsan, Srikan Neelkant, Nicholas Shivrattan, Ryan Thakurram, Balkarran Jaikarran, Rajiv Kishun, Agnadeo Sooklall, Yuvendra Budhoo, Tamesh Persaud. Achievers A - Sherwin McPherson, Rennizion Mitchell, Colin Grant, Steffon Adams, Raffel Estraido, Randy Wade, Timzey Phillips, Lennard Williams, Cladus Fraser, Leon Andrews, Joseph Nicholson, Allan Johnson, Achievers B - Andrew Dutchin, Carlston Nurce, Rendell Bobb, Brian Johnson, Richie Daniels, Titus Webster, Trevette Carmichael, Christopher Harry, Natasha Gangoo, Sammy Adams, Darius Joseph, Bush Lot United Glenroy Fraser – Captain, Nivendra Persaud – Vice Captain, Javed Saywack, Imran Khan, Winston Joseph, Joshua Fraser, Renny Innis, Clayton Grant, Hanskumar Singh, Bhaskar Ramduwar, Dellon Joseph, Peter Reid, Somdat Bharrat, Ronaldo Bhola. We l d a a d L i o n s Glenford Fordyce, Windell Fordyce, Eric Fordyce, Roston Lindo, Rundell D a n n e l , Tr o y M i l l e r, Rennay Casey, Enoch Carmichael, Uriel Dannel, Juramine David, Carson Saul, Lindon Davidson.

join host Bahamas as the three CONCACAF representatives in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Bahamas 2017. The finalists will earn the tickets, unless host Bahamas – already qualified for the World Cup — or non-FIFA member Guadeloupe advances to the final, in which case the nexthighest finisher would earn the spot. ”We are very proud to welcome once again the CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship,” said the Bahamas Football Association President Anton Sealey. “The fans will have an extraordinary opportunity to see the best teams compete for the title. Bahamians have

embraced beach soccer and we are confident that this tournament will help generate greater excitement and anticipation for the 2017 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.” The official draw for the 2017 CONCACAF B e a c h S o c c e r Championship will be conducted at the

Intercontinental Hotel in Doral, Florida on Monday, October 17, 2016 at 10:00 am ET. The sixteen teams will be separated into pots according to the Beach Soccer World Wide Ranking. T h e d r a w will be transmitted live via the Official CONCACAF Facebook page. (CONCACAF)

Specialist claim Faye Joseph four-game dominoes title

File photo! The Specialist Dominoes team after winning a previous competition. Specialist chalked up 31 games to win the final of the Faye Joseph four-game dominoes title on We d n e s d a y n i g h t a t Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt. Spartons placed second with 27 games while Phantom finished third on 24. Keon Ambrose and Phillip Sergeant made eight games apiece for the winners who drew the bye to the final, while Deon Duncan and Desmond Thompson got seven each for Spartons. Gilbert Mendonca and

Shellon Nicholson chalked up eight each for Phantom. Phantom won the semi final encounter with 38 games ahead of Spartons 32 and Mix Up 29. Shellon Nicholson made eight and Rawl Cameron seven for Phantom; Leroy Edwards and Desmond Thompson marked eight apiece for Spartons while Andre Foo and Clearance Whitehead made eight each f o r M i x U p . The winning team collected $50,000, runner up $20,000 and Phantom $10,000.

Meanwhile, New Amsterdam dominoes team will be hosting an 18-team tournament tomorrow at Naie Bar, Angoy’s Avenue starting at 13:00hrs. Entrance fee is $10,000 and the winning team will take home $140,000, runner up $50,000 and third place $20,000. The feature game of the day will see Georgetown, West Berbice and Corentyne battling for supremacy. Teams can contact Mark Wiltshire on 665 5855 for more information.

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

PAGE 33

Sunburst brand continues support for Stephen Vieira Continental Agencies under its Sunburst brand remained steadfast in its support for Stephen ‘Valentino Rossi’ Vieira after handing over a cheque for an undisclosed sum to the Superbike star to offset his preparation cost leading into the final leg of the Caribbean M o t o r R a c i n g Championship (CMRC) scheduled to be staged on November 13, at the South Dakota Circuit. Confidential Secretary of the Company Sharon Blackman handed over the cheque to Vieira in the presence of Company Secretary Mohamed Ally and Office Manager Chaitnarine Brignandan, during a simple ceremony that was conducted in the e n t i t y ’s B o a r d r o o m yesterday. Ally, who made remarks on behalf of the Company, spoke of the long association with Vieira, referring to him as a very good ambassador who has been their ace rider over the years. ”Stephen we are very proud of him, he has made us proud and I’m confident that he will continue to make us proud and because of this we have decided to continue our sponsorship of him,” Ally said.

Vieira in his response thanked the Company for its continued support and pledged to do everything in his power to continue to make them proud. He said Continental Agencies under its Sunburst brand has always been there for him and his payback is to dominate the Championship and regain his title. Commenting on his chances of recapturing the crown, Vieira disclosed that he is bent on getting more seat time and ensuring that his Kawasaki ZX6R is in prime condition to fend off the anticipated challenges. Questioned on the opposition Vieira was very mindful of the abilities of riders such as Elliott and M a t t h e w Vi e i r a , b u t reckoned that with good preparation and a reliable machine no one could beat him. ”Matthew, who leads the points standing, is very good at home, while I’ve been very good in the other countries that the Championship has been staged, but I believe that the more seat time I get it will make me more comfortable and competitive come November 13.” He added that this year (Continued on page 25)

Confidential Secretary Sharon Blackman (2nd left) hands over the cheque to Superbike racer Stephen Vieira in the presence of Company Secretary Mohamed Ally (right) and Office Manager Chaitnarine Brignandan.

PAGE 34

Kaieteur News

Saturday October 15, 2016

Uitvlugt Warriors and Beavers are latest winners; matches -WDFA/STAG Senior League continue this weekend

Uitvlugt Warriors Keion Duke (right) scores the third goal against Vegea Boys.

Competition in the Stag sponsored West Demerara Football Association Senior league will kick on this weekend at the Den Amstel Community ground with two matches today and tomorrow. From 14:00hrs today, Stewartville will come up against Jetty Gunners with the feature match between Eagles and Pouderoyen. Tomorrow at the same times, Den Amstel will oppose Wales United while Young Achievers will take on Beavers. In last weekend’s results, Uitvlugt Warriors trounced Vegea Boys 3-1, Young Achievers and Eagles battled to a 2-2 draw on Sunday while on Saturday, Pouderoyen drew with Stewartville 1-1 while Beavers ran away 4-0 winners over Jetty Gunners. Uitvlugt Warriors took the lead against Vegea Boys in the 24th minute through a Daniel Floyd goal but two minutes later the score was evened when Vegea Boys’ Teion Moore rocked the nets.

But Uitvlugt retook the lead three minutes later when Jermaine Accra scored in the 29th minute and they never looked back. The deal was sealed in the 52nd minute through a Keion Duke goal. Eagles had jumped ahead of Young Achievers by a 2-0 margin compliments of goals from Seon Miller in the 23rd minute and Alkeba Black in the 65th minute. But Young Achievers hit back with a Lloyd Prince double in the 79th and 89th minute to walk away with an even share of the points. Beavers in their 4-0 blanking of Jettey Gunners were led by goals from Troy Lewis (6th), Lenroy Semple (69th) and Gavin Anderson in the 74th and 78th minute. Pouderoyen had to come from behind to draw with Stewartville which had taken the lead on 20 minutes on account of Orett Stephenson’s strike. Pouderoyen neutralized that advantage in the 33rd minute when Morgan Denny found the back of the nets.

BCB/NBS Second Division Tourney

Tucber Park and Rose Hall Town Bakewell to clash in final An exciting contest is anticipated when Tucber Park of New Amsterdam and Rose Hall Town Bakewell clash in the long awaited final of the 2015 New Building Society Limited 40-overs second-division cricket competition for teams affiliated to the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB). Some one hundred teams contested the tournament which was delayed due to a number of challenges; the final is now set for the Albion Sports Complex tomorrow starting from 11:00hrs. Tucber Park will be led by National Coach Julian Moore and have in their lineup, former national U-19 pacer Niall Smith, Joel Seitaram, Steve Deonarine, Hakeem Hinds and the hard hitting Keon De Jesus. Rose Hall Town Bakewell will be spearheaded by James Fraser and include Delbert Hicks, Khemraj Mahadeo, Michael Rengasami, off spinner Collis Butts, national youth pacer Sylus Tyndall and left arm spinner Ravi Narine. Tucber Park - Julian Moore (captain/coach), Steve Deonarine, Hakeem Hinds, Keon DeJesus, Joel Seitaram, Chetram Persaud, Nial Smith, Ameer Seecharran, Trevan Caesar, Omar Weatherspoon, Lookpaul Sahadeo, Leon Swammy, Teron Sampson and Deon Sinclair. Kellon Henry is the Manager. Rose Hall Town - James Fraser (captain), Delbert Hicks (player/coach), Khemraj Mahadeo, Michael Rengasami, Ravi Narine, Sylus Tyndall, Mark Papannah, Surendra Kissoondyal, Randolph Lewis, Collis Butts, Simon Naidu, John Mankarran and Joel Pike. The BCB is extending thanks to the New Building Society Ltd. for their continued support over the years. A release from the entity stated that a number of international players would have played in this competition in recent years. The Board has also expressed gratitude to the print and electronic media for their continued coverage of Berbice cricket.

Saturday October 15, 2016

Kaieteur News

District 5 Mahaicony/Berbice Champion of Champions Athletics Meet

Mahaicony Secondary are repeat champs

PAGE 35

North Georgetown’s Zone 1, 3 tie for ‘Champion of Champions’ title North Georgetown’s Zone 1 and Zone 3 tied for the District’s ‘Champion of Champions’ title yesterday at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary when they brought the curtains d o w n o n t h e i r preliminaries for the National Schools’ Championships. Zone 1 won the track title with 489 points and finished second in the field events competition on 459 points while Zone 3 claimed the field contest with 459 points and finished second in the track competition on 428

points. A number of points is allotted to the winners of each zone and tallied for the overall winner at the end. In the final analysis, both zones finished on a similar number of points overall after the calculation was completed since they shared the athletics title. Zone 2 was third and Zone 4 fourth in the competition that was among the ‘best of the best’ in the North Georgetown District 11 Zone to select the team for the upcoming National Schools’ Cycling,

Kenisha Phillips Swimming and Track and Field Championships.

Courts Pee Wee Sch. F’ball resumes today Athletes from flames finishing in first and second position.

Defending champions, Mahaicony Secondary School, on Thursday last staved off spirited challenges from Fort Wellington and Bush Lot Secondaries to retain championship status when the District Five, Mahaicony – Berbice Champion of Champions annual Athletics Meeting was tagged at the Mahaicony Playground. The champs tally after the final race of the day was 537 points with Fort Wellington amassing 444 followed by Bush Lot with 404 points. The success of the ever improving Fort Wellington Secondary School has been attributed to the performances of a number of athletes who are members of the Flames Athletics Club which is coached by former national athlete, Keisha Burnette of Hopetown. Fort Wellington fielded a team at the 2016 Penn Relays in the USA, and won the 4x100m relay in the small school category. The large crowd on hand witnessed outstanding performances by National

Under-14 Champion Athlete, Matthew Gorden, representing Bush Lot Secondary in the 400m, 800m and 1500m meters races, as well as anchoring them in the relays. Other outstanding performances came from Fort Wellington’s Okemmy Porter in the U-18 category competing in the 400m, 800m and 1500m events, respectively.

On the distaff side, Ronella Chapman also of Fort Wellington turned outstanding performances by winning the 100m and 200m sprints and also anchored her team in the relay. R o s i g n o l ’s S h o n t a y George, competing in the Under-14 category for girls, won the 100m, 200m, 400m and anchored her school ton the relay.

The second round of group fixtures in the 5th annual Court’s Pee-Wee Primary Schools football Championship will be played today, at the Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park. Just as the opening day, another twelve games will be played with the first encounter set to start at 10:00hrs. In the opening round of fixtures at 10:00hrs, St. Stephen’s Primary will clash with Comenius, while South Ruimveldt square off against F.E. Pollard. At 10:45hrs, St. Agnes go up against Rama Krishna, while Stella Maris engages Redeemer. The fifth and sixth fixtures at 11:30hrs will see North Georgetown versus School of the Nations and Marian Academy collide with Success Elementary, while Tucville Primary will match skills with St. Ambrose and defending champion St. Angela’s lock horns with St. Gabriel’s at 12:15hrs. At 13:00hrs, Enterprise and St. Margaret’s battle, while West Ruimveldt and J.E. Burnham clash, before St. Pius take on Winfer Gardens and Mae’s Primary tackle Smith Memorial in the final two encounters

a t 1 3 : 4 5 h r s , The event which runs from October 8November 19 features twenty-four schools competing in a round-robin format. On conclusion of the group stage, the top two teams from each group as well as the best four third placed teams will advance to the round of 16 knock-out stage. Following the conclusion of the round of 16, the eight schools that lose will compete for positions nine through 16 until the end of the event. The winning school will take away the championship trophy, medals, a set of team uniforms and certificates, while the runner-up will receive the second place trophy, medals, six footballs and certificates. The third placed side will collect a trophy, four balls and certificates, while fourth placed will be presented with a trophy and certificates. The most discipline team will also be presented with a trophy, while the Most Valuable Player, Highest Goalscorer and Best Goalkeeper will each receive a trophy and football cleats.

t r o Sp

Ituni identified for ABSAA

Alex Bunbury whose brainchild is to set up the Alex Bunbury Sports and Academics Academy speaks to the audience yesterday.

Windies A square series after crushing victory Fired Up! Fast bowler Keon Joseph snatched two early wickets to make inroads into Sri Lanka A’s batting.

Pakistan v West Indies, 1st Test, Dubai, 2nd day

Azhar’s triplecentury cements Pakistan’s dominance Azhar Ali celebrates his milestone ©AFP

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