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Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyana-times.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 3023

Saturday, October 29, 2016

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3 killed in Linden/ Soesdyke Highway crash

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Police hunt 3 in Sophia drive-by shooting P9

Page 10

8-year-old shot in Berbice Page 10

AFC admits economy is unstable Page 12

P18 Road fatalities up in A Division Police raids unearth several P18 unlicensed shotguns

US supports P13 Guyana Whistleblower programme All stakeholders should be P13 included in decision-making – President ... as New Amsterdam Town Week launches

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo enjoys a light moment with Diwali motorcade participants at Uitvlugt, on the West Coast of Demerara, on Friday evening (Carl Croker photo)

Public Procurement Opposition boycotts 50th anniversary programme Commission …urged to uphold at Parliament installed Constitution – cites lack of inclusion Page 7

Page 14

As crime spirals out of control

Time for President to intervene – PSC Chairman Page 3

Sparendaam Housing project, World Cup audits

Special P9 prosecution team to go after defaulters – Govt

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

NEWS

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, October 29 – 14:30h-16:00h and Sunday, October 30 – 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, October 29 – 15:45h-17:15h and Sunday, October 30 – 16:15h-17:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Heavy rain showers with sunny intervals can be expected throughout the day, while clear skies can be expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-easterly and East South-easterly ranging from 1.78 metres to 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 03:28h and 15:42h reaching maximum heights of 2.55 metres and 2.64 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 09:18h and 21:37h reaching minimum heights of 0.66 metre and 0.56 metres respectively.

As crime spirals out of control

Time for President to intervene – PSC Chairman

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he Private Sector Commission (PSC) is urging that steps be taken to adequately equip local law enforcement agencies and personnel to better police the country’s borders in order to arrest gun-smuggling from neighbouring countries.

According to Chairman of the Commission, Eddie Boyer, this will help in curbing the violent gun related crimes that has been occurring. At a press conference on Friday, Boyer expressed that there is a concern, felt by every citizen in the country, over the inability of the State to generally protect them from widespread gun inspired crime threatening their wellbeing and safety.

Chairman of the Commission, Eddie Boyer

tent. He noted too that businesses, banks and even the tourism industry are under threat: “This is not the

“This is not the good life. It is time that our President intervene… We believe that each and every one of our ordinary citizens feel threatened, regardless of where they happen to be, whether in the street, their workplace or in their homes, are under threat each day from violent gun related crime.”

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To this end, the PSC chairman is calling on President David Granger, who is also Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces, to publicly order Police to bring some order and control as it relates to criminal gangs and individuals terrorising the Guyanese community.

“While we commend the Minister and the Commissioner of Police for the recent reduction in serious crime, our country, nevertheless, remains unprotected from guns flowing across our borders into the hands of violent criminals virtually without restraint; our country remains with a Police Force which is inadequately staffed, insufficiently trained and underequipped to meet the challenge,” he asserted.

Boyer continued that Guyanese are traumatised by fear, almost every day, of having a gun pointed at them with criminal in-

good life. It is time that our President intervene… We believe that each and every one of our ordinary citizens feel threatened, regardless of where they happen to be, whether in the street, their workplace or in their homes, are under threat each day from violent gun related crime.”

Furthermore, he disclosed that on October 12, the Commission, through its Sub-Committee on Security, met with Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan to express concern. During that meeting, Boyer said the Minister admitted that while there has been an overall 16 per cent reduction in serious crimes this year compared to last year, criminal access to guns coming into Guyana, mainly from Brazil, is an increasing threat and remains a challenge because of the extent of the country’s borders.

These concerns of PSC and this admission by the

Public Security Minister come in light of recent discoveries of illegal weapons, ammunition and ammunition components across the country.

In fact, only on Thursday the Police discovered over 200 pieces of ammunition hidden in a paint can left in an abandoned car.

Meanwhile, the day before police in ‘E’ Division (Linden/Kwakwani) discovered an AK-47 Rifle, two magazines and 15 rounds of matching ammunition, 15 .38 live rounds, 39 .9mm live rounds and 21 .223 live rounds, along with a magazine.

On the other hand, these concerns of gun-related crimes come on the heels of acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine on Saturday last disclosing that on the contrary serious crimes involving the use of firearms have declined this year when compared to the past two years.

However, he was referring to a specific period from September 1 to October 20, during which in 2014, ‘A’ Division (Georgetown) had 80 reports of gun-related crimes; ‘C’ Division (East Coast Demerara) 18 reports, and ‘D’ Division (West Demerara/East Bank Essequibo) six reports were made during that period.

Then in 2015, during the same period, ‘A’ Division recorded 92 reports; ‘C’ Division 18 and ‘D’ Division eight. During that twomonth period in 2016, 74 reports were made in ‘A’

Division; 16 in ‘C’ Division and 22 in ‘D’ Division.

Meanwhile, the overall figures for those years as it relates to reports involving robberies with the use of firearms amounted to 246 in ‘A’ Division; 52 overall in ‘C’ Division and ‘D’ Division 36.

Additionally, during the period October 1 to 20, in 2014, ‘A’ Division had 34 reports of robberies where firearms were used; ‘C’ Division had six such reports, and ‘D’ Division had four.

This same period in 2015, recorded 38 gun-related reports in ‘A’ Division; seven in ‘C’ Division and four in ‘D’ Division. For this year ‘A’ Division had 20 such reports; ‘C’ Division seven and ‘D’ Division eight.

Overall, for those three years, robberies involving the use of firearms for that period in October comparatively, ‘A’ Division had 92 reports, ‘C’ Division 16 and ‘D’ Division 20 reports.

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Maternal deaths

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orldwide, maternal mortality rates are still unacceptably high and no doubt more strenuous efforts are needed by international development partners, governments and policy makers to ensure that countries make progress in reducing these rates.

According to recent statistics released by the World Health Organisation (WHO), about 830 women die from pregnancyor childbirth-related complications around the world every day. Improving maternal health was one of 8 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) adopted by the international community in 2000.

Under MDG 5, countries committed to reducing maternal mortality by three-quarters between 1990 and 2015. Since 1990, the number of maternal deaths worldwide has dropped by 43 per cent.

Seeing that it is possible to accelerate the decline, countries have now united behind a new target to reduce maternal mortality even further. One target under Sustainable Development Goal 3 is to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 births, with no country having a maternal mortality rate of more than twice the global average.

According to WHO, the high number of maternal deaths in some areas of the world reflects inequities in access to health services, and highlights the gap between rich and poor.

Almost all maternal deaths (99 per cent) occur in developing countries.

Here in Guyana, despite achieving progress during the last decade, this country continues to experience one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in Latin America and the Caribbean, with a maternal mortality rate estimated at around 121 per 1000 live births and an infant mortality rate at 22 per 1000 live births.

The media have reported several cases of maternal and child deaths over the past few years and several investigations were launched to determine what contributed to these deaths. In many cases the findings of the probe brought into question the conduct of healthcare professionals and the entire system as a whole.

The bottom line is that too many of our women have lost their lives during child birth and too many babies have died due to various complications in the very early stages of their lives. On several occasions before we had called for the authorities to take immediate action to ensure that maternal and child death rates continue to decline steadily.

Now that Guyana will have access to an US$8 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to help reduce maternal, perinatal and neonatal deaths in Guyana, much of the crucial programmes we had called for over the years to reduce these deaths could be implemented.

According to the IDB, given that about 93 per cent of deaths in children less than one year of age occurred in the neonatal period, the programme will support and improve maternal and child health care with a focus on improving access to quality neonatal health services and providing a better path to and quality of reproductive and maternal health services.

It is also expected that more would be done to improve the vaccination programme and to incorporate new vaccines.

Additionally, under the Maternal and Child Health Programme it is expected that all mothers are registered with a clinic and are examined during the course of their pregnancy.

This will greatly reduce the chances of maternal deaths as well as creating environments for pregnant mothers towards having a healthy pregnancy.

The WHO has underlined the fact that all women need access to antenatal care in pregnancy, skilled care during childbirth, and care and support in the weeks after childbirth.

To avoid maternal deaths, it is also vital to prevent unwanted and too-early pregnancies. All women, including adolescents, need access to contraception, safe abortion services to the full extent of the law, and quality post-abortion care.

To improve maternal health, barriers that limit access to quality maternal health services must be identified and addressed at all levels of the health system.

The fact is that most maternal deaths are preventable, as the health-care solutions to prevent or manage complications are well known.

May the lamp of joy illuminate your world and bring you health, wealth and prosperity. The management and staff of Guyana Times, TVG and RGI join the Hindu community and the rest of Guyana as they prepare to celebrate Diwali with designing a Rangoli and dressing in cultural attire at the company's head office on Friday

Need for better crimefighting strategy Dear Editor, I was appalled to see the recent headlines that stated that the Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, was lobbying for more plastic and less cash transactions to stem crime. Editor, I dare say that this is one very revealing confession by our goodly Public Security Minister.

He is basically throwing his hands up in the air and telling the citizens of our country not to carry so much cash, because there is nothing that can be done about the criminal elements that hound their lives on a daily basis. This is like saying to your children to stop taking lunch to school because bullies usually take away their food.

I wonder if the minister ever stepped out of the comfort of his offices and observed the Guyanese people earning on their daily lives. If the majority of the population is filled with persons in Armani suits and designer outfits operating in a celebrity city, then Editor I am the first to put my foot in my mouth. But whether we choose to admit it or not, the majority of the population in Guyana are peo-

ple who hustle and work hard to carry on their daily lives and the vast majority deal with cash. Did our goodly minister already co-ordinate his plan and lobby our Minister of Finance to slow down or cease the printing of bank notes? Yes. I am sounding ridiculous because it’s not right that our good alone sounds ridiculous here.

And these are just my reactions before I even read the article.

Sure the Police have declared that "serious" crime is down. Whatever the world that means, there are still the lesser beings who on a daily basis, face the fear and challenges of being robbed in high daylight, face the risk of being terrorised in their homes by bandits, of having their purses snatched, of being held up in a store, and the list goes on. Are these unfamiliar stories?

We are now telling the labourers, the carpenters, the seamstresses, minibus operators, market vendors (I can go on like this for a long tune) to deal with plastic!!? And it can bring crime down by 35 per cent in this country?! Come on Mr Minister, you’ve got to do better than that! That's worse than telling drivers

to pull over and stop when the other drivers ignorantly turn on their LED's at nights. Some of us lesser beings know how to read, and we are noting a very disturbing trend.

The minister needs to come to grips with the economic activities in our country that provide a living for our people and review his great thoughts. It is a convincing argument that less cash and more plastics can do lots towards improving the way of doing business and increase accountability, but when one resorts to that as a medium of curbing crane, it gets worrying.

Editor, I have now read the article. The good Minister has not made any mention of addressing the criminal elements. He is encouraging the victims to take evasive action by using plastics and quoting some statistics in bringing across his conviction. The Minister went on to accuse the Opposition Leader of giving confidence to criminals in an adjacent article in the newspapers.

In that self-indicting article, there are a number of issues that the minister himself ought to address being part of the government.

Tell us, other than the words "the green economy� what is being done to address those issues, including providing employment opportunities for our youths and strengthening the Police Force. You were voted in there to deal with those issues, and take the country forward.

The Opposition are supposed to be garrulous as the minister would know from experience.

The Opposition Leader's utterances do represent the man in the street view, and they make up the majority of the populace.

In concluding, I am convinced that the minister's confession of his inability and incompetence to address the criminal elements certainly lifted about 35 per cent of the weight off his chest, coincidentally, with the anticipated drop in crime level that he so convincingly touts if we were to go plastic. Might I suggest that an actual practical plan to deal with the criminals themselves might go a long way to discharging his duties and perhaps give him added relief.

Sincerely, Khemraj Goberdhan

guyana-times.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate, Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Outburst by IAC calls for a King intimidates the Mayor of new location for vendors Georgetown Cabinet meetings Dear Editor, The fresh outburst by the Mayor of Georgetown at the recent Statutory Meeting of Council where she criticised the Audit Office of Guyana and the Ministry of Communities, fundamentally says two things: First, that she is not happy, comfortable or welcoming to any type of audit being carried out at City Hall, which she knows can and will reveal corruption, fraud, and improprieties which will make all other institutions in this country look like a kindergarten class compared to City Hall’s University of Sleaze, something that every citizen of Georgetown is well aware of.

Second, by lashing out at these two institutions, it shows the level of decadence that some institutions in our country have sunk to.

It is unimaginable that the Mayor who has no

knowledge or experience in auditing could just glibly attempt to bring these two institutions into disrepute because they highlighted just a small fraction of the transgressions that are a standard at City Hall.

Recall her attempts previously to have a former Town Clerk examined and investigated by the same Audit Office of Guyana? I guess that the shoe is now on the other foot.

It is my hope and that of every decent citizen that the Audit Office of Guyana and the Ministry of Communities will not be fazed by her attacks and would not just constrain themselves of the $300 million they gave to the Council, but rather carry out an audit of all of Council’s records for the last decade.

Best regards, Jermain Johnson

Dear Editor, The Indian Action Committee (IAC) is shocked and extremely disappointed that the Government of Guyana has seen it fit to hold its Cabinet meetings at the headquarters of the Guyana Defence Force at Camp Ayanganna while renovations are being made at the Ministry of the Presidency (MOTP), according to a media report.

The IAC feels that this is not only a bad decision by the government of Guyana, but it is inexcusable and unacceptable given the historical fact that the headquarters of the Guyana Defence Force at Camp Ayanganna, is the same place where illegal riggings and manipulations of general elections took place during the years of the PNC dictatorship in which hundreds of thousands of Guyanese were disenfranchised.

The IAC understands that a large section of the population of Guyana is very concerned with the apparent militarisation of the government and its agencies, and a move like this will only serve to cause more anxiety amongst those that did not vote for the coalition government.

The IAC urges the Government of Guyana to immediately abandon this thought of utilising the headquarters of the Guyana Defence Force at Camp Ayanganna for Cabinet meetings, and quickly identify an alternative location, in the context of social stability that is acceptable to all of the people of Guyana.

Yours sincerely, Saira Alli Secretary Indian Action Committee

Bureaucracy at GGMC frustrating Dear Editor, The bureaucracy at GGMC is frustrating gold and diamond miners.

Business decisions and investments are being delayed while miners are forced to wait on the GGMC to make basic routine decisions.

Every routine decision or transaction has to go through several committees before we miners can receive a response. There is now a technical Committee and a Closed Area Committee, in addition to the GGMC Board and then all decisions have to be submitted to the

Minister for approval before a miner can know the outcome of his query.

There is still no customer service; most members of GGMC staff are hostile and disrespectful to miners. The excuse for every delay is that the Minister has to approve the request and he is currently travelling overseas.

There is no accountability; it seems as if the GGMC is not aware that each day a decision is delayed causes miners to lose money. A transaction that should be completed in a week is now taking three months, and

many miners have to cease their operations until their issue is resolved.

This is putting us small miners under tremendous pressure. We cannot afford to park our dredge for three

months just to wait on the GGMC to process routine paper work.

Thank you, A small miner

Dear Editor, We have been informed by some of our members in the Parliament View Mall who attended a meeting on Monday morning (October 20, 2016), along with mostly alcohol liquors and front fence clothes vendors, that they were instructed by the Town Clerk, Royston King, to go and re-register their names at the Toolsie Mall.

They were also told to ensure that they secure a Tax Identification Number.

King also intimidatingly said that he is aware of all who joined the Union and all who are speaking ill

of him. He then informed them that on Saturday, November 5, 2016, they have to close up and remove their businesses for four days, so that he can dig drains and do other upgrading works.

Mr King cautioned them that what they discussed at the meeting was confidential and that they must promise him not to let the media know what they discussed at the meeting.

Sincerely, Guyana Market Vendors Union

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guyana-times.com

Foundation

By Erlanger A Turner, PhD

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oys learn at a very young age from their parents and others around them about expected behaviours based on their gender. These societal norms are described as masculinity ideologies. Masculinity ideology refers to the traditional and socially constructed definitions about the cultural norms and expectations regarding appropriate male behaviour. For decades, the dominant cultural image of masculinity has included heterosexuality, physical strength, athleticism, control over situations, family caretaking as the head of the household, financial success, and/or not crying or showing emotion (Wilson et al., 2010). These messages are often conveyed from cartoons, movies, and verbalised by parents.

address emotional or behavioural issues.

Common types of masculine traits

Mahalik, Good, & Englar-Carlson (2003) describe some common types of masculine traits among boys and men.

Strong-and-Silent: Being viewed as unemotional is central to the “strongand-silent” masculine script. Enacting this script

What is traditional masculine ideology?

According to Mahalik, Good, & Englar-Carlson (2003), traditional masculine ideology, is described as having some or all of the following perspectives on manhood: Men are the breadwinner and responsible head of household Males are anti-feminine, which includes concealing their emotions Heterosexuality as the normative sexual orientation Males are expected to have high status and confidence Men are violently tough and physically strong Some research demonstrates that males’ endorsement of certain masculine ideologies is associated with a range of presenting problems. Pascoe (2003), in his study of masculinity, has also called for an examination of masculinity that illuminates the details and complexities in how young men negotiate masculinity, not just the categorisation of masculinity typologies that are often discussed (eg, jock, player, effeminate). Because of these messages taught to boys and men, they are often less likely to visit the doctor or reach out for psychological health to

helps boys and men to live up to masculine role expectations through being stoic and in control of one’s feelings Tough-Guy: Closely related to the strong-and-silent masculine gender role script are those messages associated with being a “tough guy”. For example, when boys learn to be tough, they too frequently do so by suppressing emotions potentially associated with vulnerability. Other tough-guy messages that relate to presenting issues include prescriptions that men must be aggressive, fearless, and invulnerable.

“Give-’em-Hell”: Violence becomes part of the socialisation of men early in life when they are encouraged to fight in order to “build character” and keep from being bullied. Thus, boys and men may learn that violence is, at least to some extent, a socially accept-

able way to behave and work out problems, and they may not learn to separate aggression and violence that occur within the context of a sporting event from aggression and violence against others outside of the sports arena.

Playboy: Boys often learn to suppress the extent to which they allow themselves to care for and connect with others. This suppression may lead to nonrelational sex, which is a tendency to experience sex primarily as lust, without any requirements for relational intimacy or emotional attachment.

Homophobic Script: Being traditionally masculine is to avoid any features associated with femininity or homosexuality. Therefore, characteristics that are potentially associated with homosexuality, such as any intimate connection with other men, must be avoided in oneself and disdained in others.

Winner Script: An extremely important masculine script in American culture is that of being competitive and successful.

This includes characteristics such as impatience, high drive for achievement, hostility, high need for control, competitiveness, and inability or unwillingness to express oneself.

Implications of rigid masculinity socialisation

Research notes that adhering to strict connotations of masculinity (ie, traditional masculinity ideologies) can have a negative impact on both health and mental health functioning in boys and men. Below are a few potential issues that may arise: problems with dating and interpersonal intimacy greater depression and anxiety abuse of substances problems with interpersonal violence (eg, sexual assault, spousal abuse) greater health risk (eg, high blood pressure) greater overall psychological distress (psychologytoday.com)

CONTINUED FROM YESTERDAY

By Signe Whitson

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hen I ask schoolaged children how they would like their parents to respond when they tell them about a bullying situation, again the responses are nearly universal. Most commonly, children tell me, “I just wish they’d listen.” This is frequently followed by, “I wish they’d give me some advice, but let me try to handle it on my own first.”

What follows are five guidelines for parents and professionals on how to listen well and respond in helpful ways when a young person reports an incident of bullying:

Stay calm

First and foremost, when a young person takes the leap of faith to talk to you about a bullying situation, stay calm. Avoid freaking out.

The dynamics they describe may be very run-of-the-mill or they may be entirely appalling, but either way, your role as a helpful adult is to listen well and respond as if the situation is completely manageable. The steadfastness of your response will go a long way in shaping the child’s attitude as the two of you begin to move forward

Express sympathy Next, it is helpful to express sympathy to the child.

Something as simple as, “I am sorry this is happening to you” goes a long way in signalling to the young person that the dynamics they have described are not just a “normal” part of growing up and that you feel badly that they have been on the receiving end of cruelty.

Thank the child

Thirdly, thank the child for finding the strength to tell you about the incident(s). Acknowledging the courage it takes to overcome fear, embarrassment, and self-doubt is an important affirmation. What’s more, only when a child talks about a situation does an adult get the opportunity to help do something about it. This is also something to

express gratitude for. An effective message may sound as simple as, “I know it must have taken you a lot of courage to tell me about this.

Thank you for trusting me with something so difficult.”

Encourage problem-solving

The final important element when a child has confided a bullying situation is to initiate the empowering process of problem-solving.

Because it is helpful to give children a sense of ownership and control over both problems and solutions, adults should offer encouragement, such as, “You do not have to go through this on your own. Let’s work together to come up with realistic strategies for handling this,” but let the young person take the lead in coming up with specifics.

That said, it is certain that some young people, brimming with anger and frustration, may come up with ideas that sound neither reasonable nor, well, legal. Other youngsters, accustomed to adults solving their every problem, may express resentment at being challenged to come up with solutions. In either case, the adult’s job is to continue to support the child, listen to his ongoing thoughts and feelings, and consistently assure him that you will work together to come up with constructive solutions. Much of a child’s frustration in a bullying situation has to do with feelings of helplessness; the adult’s role is to assist the child in reclaiming feelings of power and control through this process of listening, supporting, affirming, and thinking through solutions.

Follow-up

Lastly, following up with a child after a conversation about bullying is critical. Just as bullying is not marked by a single act of cruelty, neither can one helpful conversation between an adult and child usually solve the entire problem. The adult should be sure to check-in with the young person consistently after their initial conversation to confirm the child’s physical and emotional wellbeing, convey ongoing support, talk about how identified strategies are working, re-calibrate ideas that were not helpful, and generally affirm the connection that has been established. (Excerpt

from psychologytoday.com)

NEWS

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

Public Procurement Commission installed … urged to uphold Constitution

Members of the new Public Procurement Commission pose with President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday

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aking the brunt of the work off the shoulders of Government Ministers, President David Granger on Friday swore in members of the much anticipated Public Procurement Commission (PPC).

After months of promise, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government on Friday installed the five-member Commission; a body which will oversee the awarding of contracts for public projects.

The Commission, which will elect its Chairman at its first meeting, includes Emily Dodson, Carla Corbin, Ivor English, Nandkishore Gopaul and Sukrishnalall Pasha.

Following the swearing in, President David Granger said the PPC is an establishment mandated by Guyana’s Constitution, which seeks to ensure the fair, equitable and transparent execution and works and procurement of goods and services, according to law.

He said members of the new Board are now charged with constitutional duty of the Commission.

“I charge you with upholding the constitutional duty of the Public Procurement Commission in being independent, impartial and fair,” the President told the Commissioners.

The Guyana Constitution stipulates that the Commission shall consist of five members who shall have expertise and experience in procurement, legal, finance and administrative matters and that the President shall appoint the members of the Commission after such members have been nominated by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and approved by not less than two-thirds of the elected members of the National Assembly.

The President said that the PAC of the National Assembly was responsible for the selection of the members of this Commission and this bi-partisan process of se-

lection is a demonstration of however intractable political differences might seem, the bases for political agreement and consensus on matters of national interest should always be sought.

Speaking with the media, Nanda Gopaul, a former Labour Minister and Permanent Secretary under the previous Administration, said he is happy with the confidence which has been reposed in him and the other members of the Commission

by Parliament and the Government as a whole.

He noted that the Commission will work to ensure that its integrity and the interests of the Guyanese people are priority in every decision that is taken.

“I would do my utmost to ensure that the integrity is upheld and we are happy that the democratic system has worked. We are happy that the Parliament has put confidence in us, the members of the PPC and that the President has put the necessary systems in place

to have the Commission established. We will work to ensure that the interests of the Guyanese people and the country as a whole are protected,” he said.

Among the PPC’s key functions are, according to the Procurement Act, to “Monitor and review the functioning of all procurement systems to ensure that they are in accordance with

law and such policy guidelines as may be determined by the National Assembly; promote awareness of the rules, procedures and special requirements of the procurement process among suppliers, constructors and public bodies; safeguard the national interest in public procurement matters, having due regard to any international obligations; monitor

the performance of procurement bodes with respect to adherence to regulations and efficiency in procuring goods and services and execution of works; approve of procedures for public procurement, disseminate rules and procedures for public procurement; and recommend modifications thereto to the public procurement entities.”

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

IN THE COURTS

Miner slapped with murder charge …accused Police of beating him to sign confession

A

miner of Lot 167 Cummings Lodge, Georgetown, was on Friday remanded to prison when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on a charge of murder.

Jamil Young, 29, is accused of killing Randy

Persaud on March 10, 2016, at Agricola, Georgetown.

The unrepresented defendant made a series of allegations against a number of Police officers in court on Friday.

He told court that Police officers placed a handcuff on his feet and beat him until his feet were swol-

len. The defendant placed one foot visibly swollen out of the dock, indicating to the Magistrate the injuries he received.

He stated that one of the officers placed a gun in his mouth and told him if he does not sign a statement he will be shot.

The case will continue on November 17.

Jamil Young

Truck driver charged for narco trafficking

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truck driver of Buckhall, Essequibo River, was refused bail at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on a charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Leroy Fraser, 43, pleaded guilty with explanation before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

It was alleged that on October 26, 2016, at the Police Outpost at Mabaruma he had in his possession 674 grammes of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

Police prosecutor Neville Jeffers stated that on the day in question, Police were conducting a routine search at the Police Outpost when they discovered a black plastic bag with three transparent plastics containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis.

The illicit drug was discovered in the steering wheel of the vehicle which Fraser was driving. In addition, he stated that Fraser was the only occupant in the vehicle.

Fraser, who was unrepresented by any attorney,

challenged the prosecution’s case, claiming that the drug was found underneath his truck and not in his steering wheel. He said that Police Officers had to get a light to retrieve the drug. He further added that he was not caught with the drug at the Outpost but at the Landing after Police stopped him there again.

He continued that upon discovery of the drub by police officers he immediately pointed out a suspect called “Dougla” to the officers whom he recalled had asked

him to transport some drugs for him. He explained to the Chief Magistrate that he told the man “no”; that he does not like to be part of those things.

In addition, he stated that “Dougla” was subsequently arrested and released Friday morning from the Police Station.

After listening to the defendant’s lengthy explanation, the Chief Magistrate entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. Fraser will make his next court appearance on November 18, 2016.

Father of 3 granted bail

A

father of three of Lot 46 Houston Housing Scheme, Greater Georgetown, was granted bail in the sum of $100,000 after he made an appearance before Chief

Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on a charge of simple larceny.

Chanderpaul Mangru pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that

between May 2014 and October 2016, he stole a quantity of hardware items amounting to $1.8 million, property of Abdul Gafoor.

The prosecution explained to the court that the

stolen hardware items were not recovered.

Mangru’s Attorney, Mottee Singh, told the court that he does not understand the reason for his client being brought before the court since he did not commit any crime. He stated that on the day in question, ranks conducted a search on his client’s lower flat premises, without a search warrant.

He further made an application for reasonable bail, stating that his client is a father of three minor children.

Mangru was initially granted bail in the sum of $150,000 but Singh pleaded with the Chief Magistrate for a lesser bail since his client only had $100,000.

Mangru will return to court on November 21 for report.

Taking stock...

T

...of Mash?

he economy continues its inexorable downward slide into the abyss of recession and worse; political acrimony rises in and out of Parliament; crime just won’t go away but becomes qualitatively more dangerous because now even the petty bandits have “big guns”; thousands are facing layoffs; official corruption is exposed every day in the newspapers - but thank God, being Guyanese, we’re maintaining our sporting traditions.

After presumably a hard year’s work in 2016, we’ll be Mashing in 2017. Under the theme, “Celebration with dignity, liberty and greater unity”. Your Eyewitness isn’t so sure how much dignity we’ll have, since Mash, of course, will come after the Christmas and New Year “sports” and we would’ve started the year flat broke - or more to the point - in hock to everybody who was willing to listen to our entreaties as to why they should give us credit to “get down” for the “holidays”.

But let’s talk a bit more about Mash, shall we, dear readers? This year, Mash - which commemorates our attainment of Republican status - was downplayed so we could “big up” the 50th anniversary of our Independence from Britain. And boy did we “Big it up”!! The Bill for just building the “Jubilee” wooden stadium came out around $1 billion. Yep… that’s right… ONE BILLION! With $300 million sourced from the Lotto Funds on an “emergency” basis!

Now “Republic Day” is just gilding the independence Lilly. The only change is we exchanged the “titular President” and an all-powerful Prime Minister with an all-powerful Executive President and a “titular Prime Minister”. And to be frank about it that change to the Executive Presidency was made just to satisfy the megalomaniac ego of Forbes Burnham, who wanted to be Queen! Barbados, for instance, still has a GovernorGeneral representing the Queen as Head of State and isn’t a Republic. And they’ve done quite well, thank you. But of recent there have been rumours of throwing out the Queen!

But back to us and our Mash. This is just a poor man’s hand-me-down TT Carnival. If we’re going to bring back the Republican celebration, why don’t we create something uniquely Guyanese? With the emphasis on the word “create”. There are so many Guyanese out there with oh so much talent… why don’t we harness that energy and show the world who we are? Who knows… they may even pay us to come down as tourists.

There aren’t many countries in the west who can market a “Chinese” heritage that goes back to 1853, are there? Or Indian?

These two BRICS countries just happen to be sending the most tourists into the world today.

...of the experts

It had to happen sooner than later now that it’s confirmed by three wells out of four have struck it rich in the Stabroek field. “Experts” will be coming out of the woodwork to tell us natives how to spend our money. The first one gave a lecture and imagine, he still kept talking after the fella who sold us that Smart City Parking meter deal appeared as a “Guyanese businessman”.

You’d think the “oil expert” would’ve recognised a fellow member of the “Sacred Order of Used Car Salesmen” and beat a quick retreat. But then, that just meant you don’t know the species!! Take for instance the pearls of wisdom that dropped from the mouth of the “oil expert” as every one of the dailies dubbed him.

We might just develop “Dutch Disease”. Really??!!

Too bad that’s already happened with the neglect of agriculture. That we need to build on-shore petroleum processing facilities, really? Why didn’t the Government and opposition think about that?

Hey!! There’s no harm in listening, is there. Just be sure to watch for the bill.

...of definitions

It’s not only in the boxing ring “some can run, but can’t hide”. Did you see former president Jagdeo repeatedly jab a hapless Jordan with: “What’d you mean by ‘fiscal space”?? Ouch!!

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

NEWS

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

Sparendaam Housing project, World Cup audits

Police hunt 3 in Sophia drive-by shooting

Special prosecution team to T go after defaulters – Govt

G

overnment has announced that it will be moving to establish a team of prosecutors that will lead a case against members of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), who were found to be culpable in two forensic audits.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon said the reports of the audits, on the operations of the Guyana Cricket World Cup Inc and the Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara, Housing Project also known as “Pradoville 2” were recently presented to Cabinet by Finance Minister Winston Jordan.

According to Harmon, Cabinet found that in both instances, there were indications of criminal culpability which require further investigation.

“Cabinet therefore agreed that in each case, a special prosecution team would be establish, that the Minister of Home Affairs would present a report to cabinet within one week on the composition of the team; that the reports would be handed over to the police for criminal investigations to commence into those matters.”

According to the State Minister, the legal team will not be limited to local personnel, but will include both regional and international.

“We are looking to bring persons who are capable of handling these mat-

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

ters that are coming up. So yes, we are looking at the Region for the first instance and then further afield.” He said Government had already indicated that it had been receiving offers of assistance from both the region and international, and this will most likely be accepted since the issue of corruption and transparency in Government is international.

Speaking of some of the criminalities arising in the audit, Harmon said it was found that plots of lands that were transferred to former government officials were not market prices, and the valuation that was given was unusual for that time and location.

Harmon said Government is going to leave the issue in the hands of those who are trained at

building criminal and civil cases for them to take the necessary action.

Harmon explained that “these are criminal investigations and therefore the decision is that this goes to the police and the police decide whether it is SOCU or the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) will deal with it.” He added that as far as Cabinet is concerned, “the matter should be investigated by the criminal investigation elements within the Guyana Police Force.”

Meanwhile, the investigations into the operations of the Guyana Cricket World Cup Inc had to do with the glaring irregularities into sums by the local organising committee in meeting expenditures relating to the hosting of the 2007 International Cricket World Cup in Guyana.

he Police are hunting three suspects for the execution style killing of Kevin “Mad Dog” Inniss, 23, of Ramsingh Street, B Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, which occurred on Thursday evening, a short distance from his home.

The man was with a friend who has been identified as 22-year-old Shane Carter, when a car load of men pulled up at a gathering and opened fire. Inniss was shot to the neck, back and chest, while Carter, who is a salesman,was shot to the leg as he attempted to run.

Both men were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where Inniss succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical attention.

Guyana Times understands that a silver Toyota Carina 212 motorcar with no registration plate stopped in front of the now dead man’s home before driving towards the “lime”.

Upon reaching the yard where they men were conversing, three armed and masked men exited, approached them and dis-

Dead: Kevin “Mad Dog” Inniss

charged their weapons. They then re-entered the vehicle and sped away from the scene.

At the home of the dead man on Friday, a brother of the deceased miner could not say the motive for the killing, but is confident that his brother was the target.

A sister, Candace Thomas told Guyana Times that she was at home and heard the sound of gunshots but at that time thought it was squibs.

This was followed by loud screams and soon after she

heard someone calling her brother’s name. She immediately ran out only to see him lying on the roadway.

“All I hear is some guy run in the yard, he de sitting down in front at the head of the street and some guys with some mask start shooting,” Thomas added. She also admitted that her brother had his “bad ways” but he was loved by everyone.

“He does hardly be in trouble, one and two times he does get into trouble, but most of the time he does deh in he corner.”

She too could not state a reason why anyone would want her brother dead, but recalled that sometime back, he and a man had some issues. She was not sure if the shooting stemmed from that incident.

While information received remains sketchy, the Police in a release stated that they are investigating the fatal shooting. Detectives have since retrieved ten .32 spent shells and 13 warhead fragmentations from the scene.

Investigations are continuing.

10

guyana-times.com

SATURday, october 29, 2016

News

8-year-old shot in Berbice I

nvestigators in New Amsterdam, Berbice, are trying to ascertain how an eight-year-old girl was shot on Friday afternoon in her leg.

Reports are that the school girl, Sarah Mohair, who lives at the New Amsterdam Technical School compound, was sent by her mother into the yard at about 16:00h to close a bathroom door and on her way a loud explosion was heard and the primary school student started to scream.

Divisional Commander Kevin Adonis said currently investigators are trying to determine where the gun would have been fired from and to determine how the child was hit by the apparent stray bullet.

Meanwhile, doctors at the New Amsterdam Hospital were able to remove the bullet from her leg. Up to press time, her condition was list-

3 killed in Linden/ Soesdyke Highway crash

T ed as stable.

According to Adonis, ballistic tests will be done to determine the type of weapon used.

Residents say there has been a series of loud explosions believed to

the sound of fire crackers throughout the day and into the evening.

The use of such explosives have become prevalent but these explosives are illegal in Guyana.

(Andrew Carmichael)

hree persons are now dead following a crash on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway in the vicinity of Moblissa on Friday evening.

Initial reports reaching Guyana Times revealed that a Route 72 (Mahdia/ Georgetown) minibus was heading to Georgetown when it collided into a truck transporting logs.

The truck was parked near the Moblissa Bridge, while the bus was travelling from Takuba Lodge, Konawaruk Mining District.

This newspaper understands that when the bus slammed into the truck its roof was ripped off before

turning over and pinning several passengers, including the three deceased, who reportedly died on the spot.

While the identities of those deceased persons were not available up to press time, this publication was able to ascertain that they were two males and a female, who is said to be the wife of the minibus driver.

The driver and another passenger were taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre and are listed a stable, while several others were rushed to the Linden Hospital.

Guyana Times will bring you a more detailed report in its Sunday edition.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016

guyana-times.com

11

News

DSL hosts Rangoli competition

RGI Manager Surida Nagreadi along with offical from Distribution Service Limited (DSL) during the judging of the Rangoli on Friday at DSL’s location on Sheriff Street, Georgetown

D

istribution Services Limited (DSL) on Friday hosted their first ever Rangoli competition for Diwali 2016.

The competition featured a number of creative participants, of which four lucky persons were able to walk away with significant prizes on Friday during a simple ceremony at the company’s Sheriff Street, Greater Georgetown branch. Medals and trophies were up for grabs, along with impromp-

tu prizes for persons who desired to add to the festive competition.

Their events included handing over the grand prize to Radio Guyana's Rangoli contest winner, Marisa Balkarran, along with tassa, product sampling, and Rangoli competition, among other festivities.

The highlight of the celebrations was their Rangoli Competition which attracted a massive turn out. The

participants were judged based on the theme 'With love and unity we will celebrate good over evil'. They were further graded on other criteria such as use of colour, creativity, relevance and explanation.

Securing the winning spot was Stefon Paul and his colleagues from the University of Guyana Economic Society.

All participants were gifted trophies, hampers and shopping vouchers.

A cultural presentation during the afternoon of reflection and celebration on Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary at Parliament building on Friday

12 NEWS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

AFC admits economy is unstable T

elecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes urges Guyanese citi-

zens to “keep the faith” as the Government battles to stabilise Guyana’s economy.

Speaking to the media at an Alliance For Change (AFC) press conference on Friday,

Hughes said Guyanese are still experiencing an economy which has not yet been kicked into full gear.

According the Minister, Guyanese need to be patient as the Government is currently getting its footing.

“Guyanese are experiencing the effects of an economy which has not yet kicked into full gear.

The party is cognisant that the country is poised at a point that in the next several months, with the unfolding of some major infrastructural projects and the intensification of the preparations for the oil and gas sector, that there

will be an expected pickup in economic activities, which will benefit all Guyanese,” the Minister disclosed.

Hughes appealed to the nation to exercise patience and to take this opportunity to prepare and participate in an economy which is showing, according to her “clear and definite signs of improvement.”

Hughes admonished Guyanese to work with Government toward national development and food security.

“We wish to encourage all Guyanese to contribute in every possible way towards na-

tional development and food security and to make a special effort to grow more, even if it’s at the level of a small kitchen garden, and to seek opportunities to target niche markets and to create new products and new service that will enhance the Guyanese experience,” she encouraged.

Over the past months, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has been arguing that the business community in Guyana continues to face many challenges in light of the declining state of the economy with no long-term or short-term plan(s) being introduced by Government.

US supports Guyana’s Whistleblower programme

T

he United States has pledged its support to Guyana for the completion of several pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing public security. This pledge was given at the Caribbean-United States Security Cooperation Dialogue, which was held in Washington DC, USA. According to Minister of State Joseph Harmon, “The United States Government, through its embassy here in Georgetown, has started to take follow-up action in that regard.” Harmon was speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing held at the Office of the President on Friday.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan attended the dialogue and presented a report on Guyana’s progress with Whistle Blower, Juvenile Justice and State Assets Recovery legislation.

All of these Bills, which went through a series of consulta-

tions, are soon to be laid in the National Assembly.

Caribbean-United The States Security Cooperation Dialogue was held following the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) meeting.

The fifth CBSI was held in Trinidad and Tobago last September.

A joint action statement from the Dialogue committed to the substantial reduction of illicit drug trafficking in the Caribbean, the promotion and advancement of public safety and security, the promotion of social justice and the establishment of a strong partnership for the future, Harmon said.

The Dialogue also addressed the issue of de-risking in relation to Guyana’s banking system and the socio-economic implications.Harmon said, “We were assured that the issues raised will be addressed.”

De-risking refers to finan-

cial institutions existing banking relations considered ‘high risk’. Correspondent banking, in particular and the threat of de-risking is of great concern to Caricom countries as some international banks have ceased their operations in the region.

The issue of de-risking was also examined at the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) conference in Paris, France which was attended by Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams. Harmon said that a report “on the establishment of criteria for correspondent banking” was presented at the FATF conference.

Guyana was officially removed from the FATF watch list for the combating of money laundering and the financing of terrorism and proliferation of weapons mass destruction earlier this month at FATF’s plenary.

NEWS

13

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

All stakeholders should be included in decision-making – President … as New Amsterdam Town Week launches

President David Granger taking the salute during the military parade in New Amsterdam as part of Town Week activities

P

resident David Granger last evening commended Mayors from across the regions for embracing the mission of making their individual municipalities ‘green’, in his address at the opening of the New Amsterdam Town Week 2016 activities. The launch was hosted on the lawns of State House, in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

The President said there is no option of whether a town should be dirty or ‘green’. Trees and mangroves should be replanted and swamps and biodiversity in the wetlands must be protected, he said, noting that the country’s rich flora and fauna are far more valuable to Guyanese alive rather than dead. He also spoke of the importance of town week activities in making citizens more cognisant of their uniqueness.

“This is a municipal obligation to the people that

elected the Mayors. Through these town weeks, we help to improve the quality of life in our respective municipalities… Each town is different, but each can make a contribution to the region over which they hold sway and in this regard Region Six is the luckiest of all because it has three towns,” President Granger said.

The Head of State then called on the municipalities to involve all relevant stakeholders in the decision-making process as combined efforts will lead to a better environment that will be able to attract visitors and investors. “Involve other persons, different political parties, from the business community, non-governmental organisations, in a consensual cooperative and collaborative way so that together we move the town forward… Find ways of working together and you will see that your town and your residents will benefit,”

he said.

The Head of State also spoke of the vast potential of Region Six, noting that it was particularly unique as it is the only region in the entire Caribbean Community (Caricom) which touches another Caricom State, Suriname. He told residents that they have much to gain by exporting products such as fish, coconuts, vegetables and rice, particularly since many countries in the Region do not have the resources or the expertise to produce commodities on the scale at which Guyana can.

“I want to see New Amsterdam as the economic driver of this region, a dynamo, you have the potential, you have the ability to attract investors, people want to know they have a clean and stable city that is well administered and their money will come… let us make New Amsterdam the powerful capital of this great region,” the President said.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman David Armogan congratulated the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council for the rapid developments that the municipality has been seeing over the past few months. He urged citizens to fulfil their responsibility to the municipality and not look to the Council to do everything. “We in this place believe in the system

of dependency; the time has come for us to become independent. We cannot continue to depend 100 per cent on the Mayor and Town Council to do everything that we desire, we have to do certain things for ourselves… If each one of us cleans our individual surroundings, the entire town will become clean,” he said.

New Amsterdam Mayor, Kirt Wynter, said with

hard work and vision, New Amsterdam has the potential to become a vibrant city.

He also spoke of the municipality’s plans to modernise the town, which includes the construction of a ‘Green Boulevard’. This would essentially be a park complete with amenities such as free Wi-Fi where families and school children can come to relax and do research.

14 NEWS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Opposition boycotts 50th anniversary programme at Parliament - cites lack of inclusion

PPP Chief Whip Gail Teixeira

House Speaker, Dr Barton Scotland

he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) on Friday excused itself from attending a programme put together by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland, titled "Afternoon of Reflection and Celebration on Guyana's 50th Independence Anniversary," saying that the programme lacked a great amount of inclusivity.

In a letter written to the Speaker, while acknowledging receipt of the invitation, Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira said, “Whilst we originally assumed that this was a Parliament of Guyana activity, we realised that the Parliamentary Management Committee had not been involved in the planning of the activity.”

The letter went on to say that upon further inquiry, Party members were informed by the Clerk of the National Assembly that the event was planned by the Speaker.

“Regrettably, the opportunity provided by a parliamentary activity on our 50th independence anniversary to reach out and be inclusive and achieve some modicum of bipartisan consensus between the two sides of the Legislature appears to have been ignored,” the Chief Whip said in her letter.

She continued that more importantly, the country’s 50th “birthday” as a nation calls for forward thinking and a vision of the future “in order to anchor the next generation(s) with ‘a pride of place’ in our dear land”. She said inclusion is key and critical.

“Therefore, we find what appears to be an inexplicable restriction on the recognition of parliamentarians to the First and Second Parliaments alone. In our opinion, the 50 years of our independence includes all parliamentarians who have served and continue to serve Guyana over these five decades and eleven Parliaments,” Teixeira

wrote.

According to the Chief Whip, the opportunity to be more inclusive and to reflect the diversity in the country’s Legislature and nation – gender, youth, age, and ethnicity – appears to have also been lost.

Seeking to illustrate that, she said the Opposition has noted that the two parliamentarians listed to speak are from the same parliamentary political party, the People's National Congress (PNC) – Oscar Clarke and Llewelyn John.

“We have noted that no Member of Parliament for the PPP who served in the First and Second Parliaments has been included on the programme.

Nor are we aware of what attempts have been made to contact the six surviving members. It may have been wise, in retrospect, to have sought the assistance of the People's Progressive Party on this matter,” Teixeira related.

She said one of these parliamentarians, in particular, must be specifically identified due to the glaring lack of any female MP on the programme, that is Mrs Philomena SahoyeShury (a member of the second Parliament) who also served as a parliamentarian as recently as in the 9th Parliament.

She also lamented the failure to include younger Members of Parliament, female MPs and ethnically diverse MPs “reflective of who we are as a nation in this programme is a sad reflection of where we are as a nation at 50 years old.”

She continued, “by way of this letter, I wish to indicate to you our profound disappointment with regards to the content of the programme for the event, and, as a result, we shall be unable to participate in your October 28 event in ‘Reflection and Celebration of our 50th Independence Anniversary’.”

T

15

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

16 People’s National Congress Reform Diwali greetings

T

he People’s National Congress Reform extends greetings, best wishes and divine blessings to our Hindu community, as well as to Guyanese generally on the national holiday of “Deepavali”. This religious festival is unique in its spiritual context and significance, which it holds for our nation.

As the rows of diyas are lit, it is time to focus on changing the lives of all

Guyanese for the better.

Falling standards and mor-

al decay must be arrested in order to bring our nation to a level acceptable to the world and to heaven.

On this occasion, it is hoped that the lighted diyas will usher in light, love, unity, prosperity and happiness to all Guyanese, especially the underprivileged.

Let Deepavali, this year, be a time of deep reflection, and the making of a solemn resolve to bring our nation out of the darkness and into the light.

A joyous and Happy Deepavali to all Guyanese!

from IAC

T

he Indian Action Committee (IAC) wishes all Guyanese a happy and prosperous Diwali. May the Goddess of light brighten your every path of life.

Join us on this auspicious eye-opening journey to extinguish the darkness of various social injustices, such as crime, discrimination, victimisation, marginalisation, spousal abuse, child abuse, alcoholism, substance abuse and suicide, all of which are causing much evil to befall the population.

Let your inner light prevail by removing all forms of darkness (ignorance) from your life.

Shubh Diwali!

Viraat Sabhaa (Guyana)

Let the spirit of Deepavali reinforce self-sacrifice

T

he deep significance of Deepavali has the capacity to inspire evolution into selfconsciousness. The occasion demands the rekindling of divinity with the fuel of higher intelligence. The shinning Purush, which permeates the entire being of man should never be ignored but should be used as a tool for self-exploration which is the true purpose of our existence.

Like other religious festivals, Deepavali has a universal appeal, ie to influence self-sacrifice, which opens the gateway to Peace and Bliss. Cosmetic exhibition destroys the sanctity and undermines the sacredness and true relevance of the festival while there is a social side to the occasion, it must not be allowed to derail its spiritual values.

Lord Raama was never intimidated by the political fantasies of Ayodhya. He structured his life by only embracing the principles founded on the basis of truth. It was his steadfastness to Dharma which convinced and influenced the minds of his subjects to initiate pathways of Light to establish his return.

Deepavali is synonymous with

Light.

Most appropriately at this time, Maha Laxhmi, the Goddess of Light is being revered with unflinching devotion. Maha Laxhmi could only be experienced through spiritual commitment not social engagements.

Today, therefore, is the occasion for total submission and reflection to the feet of the Devi. The Puraanas clearly stat that those who exhibit uninterrupted devotion at the feet of the Goddess during the period of Amawasya would become embodiment of Brilliance, Illumination, Radiance and Prosperity.

On this special occasion, spiritual activities should be exercised to welcome the Goddess.

The tradition and culture demands a peaceful environment which is conjunctive for the full consecration of the Goddess.

The Viraat Sabhaa (Guyana) encourages all to observe fasting, do Pujas and attend your respective Mandirs and other places of worship.

Shubh Deepavali to all

T

Diwal Guyan ly our Diw the tri nates exists damen Th and ta ness w lighten presse Th ing to narrow politic On

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First V Th extend Guyan Hindu This great cial si Diw gence noran

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True meaning of Diwali must be upheld - PPP

T

he People's Progressive Party (PPP) extends Diwali Greetings to all Guyanese more particularly our Hindu brothers and sisters.

Diwali which is known as the Festival of Lights is symbolic of the triumph of good over evil. This is indeed a message that resonates with humanity throughout the world especially where there exists social and economic injustice and the suppression of the fundamental human rights.

The PPP fully embraces the message and symbolism of Diwali and takes this opportunity to assure all Guyanese that the darkness which now pervade this land will be replaced by a more enlighten dispensation, one in which the full creativity and the expressed will of all Guyanese will prevail.

The PPP is aware of some elements in our society who are seeking to distort the true meaning and significance of Diwali out of narrow partisan interest and calls on them to desist from playing politics out of this sacred festival.

Once again Happy Diwali Greetings to one and all.

Diwali ignites fresh hopes D iwali message from Moses Nagamootoo, Prime Minister and First Vice President The Government of Guyana extends Diwali greetings to all Guyanese, in particular our Hindu brothers and sisters.

This Festival of Lights has great religious, as well as social significance.

Diwali signifies the emergence from the darkness of ignorance to the light of wisdom.

It also symbolises the triumph of good over evil, hope over negativity and gloom.

Today, as we continue to emerge from the clutches of despair and division, we can see flickers of the new light of hope as we lay the foundations for a clean and green Guyana.

Diwali gives us an opportunity to bury our differences and to embrace as one Guyanese fraternity. It is the sincere hope of the Government that

17

GAWU’s Diwali message 2016 O nce again, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) joins with all Guyanese and especially our Hindu community, to celebrate Diwali, widely regarded at the Festival of Lights. This is an appropriate occasion to urge that the light of peace, tolerance, understanding and compromise in today’s conditions, lighten our being like the thousands of

Diwali diyas which will light up the darkness of the night.

The Diwali celebration is one that today transcends one community and is supported nationally.

The symbol of the lighted diyas is not only lovely to behold in the evening, but it impacts the message of the value of spiritual enlightenment in our collective efforts to bring about conditions for our peace of mind and a satisfying life.

With such sentiments in mind, GAWU is encouraged by the usually wide interest shown in the expectedly dazzling celebrations that are historically associated with Diwali.

GAWU is aware of the current differences surrounding the actual dates for this year’s Diwali celebration, but do earnestly hope that this would not detract from full participation in the festivity, nor will it serve in any way to

obscure its enduring significance.

We wish all the practitioners of the Hindu faith, and indeed all Guyanese a happy and enjoyable Diwali, the Festival of Lights.

Let the lights, at this time, light up our pathway to harmony, economic well-being and our general upliftment.

Happy Diwali!

As Guyana celebrates Diwali 2016, staff of Guyana Bank of Trade and Industry displays their Indian wear at work on Friday

Diwali 2016 will serve to rekindle the fire in our hearts for a cohesive society in which all will share in the good life. It must imbue us with a positive resolve to love life, to love Guyana.

Shub Diwali!

18 NEWS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Road fatalities up in ‘A’ Division A

nother appeal is being made for motorists to drive more carefully. The call is being made after figures show an increase in road fatalities in A Division (GeorgetownEast Bank Demerara), which spans from Dora, East Bank Demerara to Conversation Tree, Greater Georgetown.

Officer in Charge of the Traffic Department, A Division, Superintendent Ramesh Ashram, is calling on all road users to adhere to the traffic laws. Ashram says there is an increase in road fatalities moving from 26 to 36 over the corresponding period for 2015.

According to a release from the Government Information Agency (GINA), Ashram explained that there are a number of educational programmes in companies where they educate drivers on road safety, defensive driving and maintenance of vehicles, among other areas. He also

placed before the courts.

Forty-six persons have been charged for failing to adhere to the Police sirens.

The Officer in Charge of the Traffic Department disclosed that the Guyana Police Force has been lobbying for quite some time for fines to be increased and for more serve verdicts to be meted out to the perpetrators who break the traffic laws so that persons would

Superintendent Ramesh Ashram

noted that there are television and radio programmes so that the public is aware of the concerns and the way forward on road safety.

“We have to continue with the education and continue talking with persons, an ongoing programme, we cannot give up on that. I am appealing to the general public to be road safety conscience, listen to the advice and if there is anything

that you want to clear up, come in and clear it up,” he urged.

According to Ashram, most of the fatal accidents are due to persons driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding and disobeying traffic signs. He noted that after careful analysis, the Police Force has place officers in what they call ‘black spots’ at peak hours and especially at the weekends.

He said, since the implementation of operation Safeway, which took effect on September 15, 2016, the programme has seen success. “I can safely say that for the period, (since) Safeway, that is from September 15 to date, we have only recorder three fatal accidents and when you look at the times these accidents occurred, it is bright day light,” he added.

Ashram noted that from September 15, 2016 to date, the Division would have made 781 speeding cases; as it relates to driving under the influence, they have tested 735 persons where 158 persons were above the legal limit, resulting in them being charged and

be more careful and think twice before they break a traffic law.

A d d i t i o n a l l y , Superintendent Ashram pointed out that his Division welcomes the Diamond Overpass, on the East Bank of Demerara, noting that it will help ease the congestion at Diamond.

According to Ashram, Diamond has in excess of 10,000 vehicles.

Road Safety Month will be observed from next Tuesday under the theme: ‘Life does not have a reset button, drive carefully.’

Some the activities for the month include a church service, lecturers at schools, traffic enforcement programmes, repainting signs, erecting signs, giving lectures to drivers, road safety rally and other activities.

Police raids unearth several unlicensed shotguns

The shotguns that were found in Kato

A

s the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues its campaign to rid the streets of illegal guns and ammunition, members of F Division (LethemInterior Locations) over the past few days conducted searches at several locations in Kato Village, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) where three illegal shotguns were unearthed. No arrests were made.

Only recently, the GPF found 234 live rounds of .40 ammunition and one live round of .45 calibre ammunition hidden in a one-gallon paint can in a parked car along Gordon Street, Kitty,

Georgetown.

In another incident, Police in E Division (LindenKwakwani) discovered an AK-47 rifle, two magazines and 15 rounds of matching ammunition, 15 .38 live rounds, 39 .9mm live rounds and 21 .223 live rounds, along with a magazine.

The Police said that while cleaning a house in Linden, a citizen observed a haversack behind a wardrobe and upon examination, found the firearm and ammunition.

The Force recently stated that gun-related robberies saw a five per cent decrease, with 563 cases this

year compared to 592 cases last year; while there was a 17 per cent decline in robberies with other instruments, which recorded 235 cases this year against 284 last year.

Meanwhile, the public perception does not reflect the Police statistics since several armed robberies are committed on a daily basis. On Friday, the Public Security Minister was approached to address public perception but was on record as saying,“That is not a Guyana issue, it is regional… people usually do not believe Police statistics”.

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Live in unity, uphold the tradition – Dr Vindhya Persaud

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reativity was evident at this year's annual Dharmic Sabha motorcade held Thursday evening at the Anna Regina Centre ground in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Mandir members skilfully displayed intricate sculptures depicting the goddess Mother Lakshmi which conveyed strong messages about the festival of light, Diwali.

Golden Fleece Vishwa Jhotir Mandir outshone the 14 other illuminated floats. This Mandir managed to retain the first position from last year by wowing the judges with their neatly crafted modern design. The float depicted the seven forms of Mother Lakshmi and how she came into being (by the churning of the milky ocean). Youths of the Mandir were also clad in decorated Indian garments, which added to the appeal. first the Placing Golden Fleece Mandir

Consolation prizes were awarded to Swarswattie Dance Academy, Adventure Mandir, Aurora Estate Mandir,

Golden Fleece Mandir float depicting Mother Lakshmi

Queenstown Mandir, Spring Garden Mandir, Spring Garden School of Music, Johanna Cecilia Mandir, Kandhaiya Dance Troupe and Cullen Mandir.

Floats were judged

The Golden Fleece Mandir float emerges winner of motorcade

won $120,000, while the second-place position was won by the Reliance Mandir. Grasping third position was Anna Regina and fourth place was secured by Affiance Mandir.

In fifth positions were Cotton Field and Airy Hall Mandirs.

"Love and Unity" Addressing the large gathering, Head of Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr Vindhya Persaud called

along dress, discipline, music, originality, punctuality, lights (quantity and arrangements), creativity, relevance, oral depiction, theme and banner. The designs were outstanding, which was testimony to the level of the participants’ preparation.

on Essequibians to uphold the Hindu tradition and culture brought to Guyana by the Indian ancestors and emphasised that the rich culture can only be upheld if Hindus live in unity and love.

During her discourse she also acknowledged that the motorcade was the largest in Essequibo, with amazing floats, when compared to previous years.

This she said is a proud moment for the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, wile reminding that it has been 40 years since the Sabha has been hosting countrywide motorcades; a legacy of her father the late Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud.

She urged fellow Hindus not to be afraid; to hold hands in unity to upkeep the Hindu tradition, customs and beliefs.

In closing she expressed gratitude to Essequibo for always supporting Dharmic’s activities. The President of the Sabha also urged residents on the Essequibo Coast to stand up for what they believe, and to never surrender to difficulties.

Shubh Diwali greetings were also extended by vice president of the Sabha, Pandit Jagmohan

Persaud who used the opportunity to urge Hindus to celebrate the festival on Sunday and gave a detailed explanation why that date is appropriate.

The cultural programme featured dance, tassa drumming, and song. Dances were performed by popular dance troupes Swarswattie Dance Academy and the Khaniya. This year, members of the dance troupes also took part in the motorcade, which added extra flair to the event.

Persons who could not make it to the Anna Regina ground delightfully cheered the floats on as they made their way through the villages.

The Dharmic Naujawan also played a major part in the motorcade: youths led the floats in a diyalit parade. The youth arm of the Sabha held lighted diyas in their hands while walking from Bush Lot to the Centre ground.

President of the Sabha, Dr Vindhya Persaud (in white) sitting with members

20 NEWS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NACTA Poll: Cathy Hughes, Irfaan Ali lead in ratings

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ourism Minister Cathy Hughes and Opposition Parliamentarian Irfaan Alli lead in performance ratings on Government Ministers and Opposition Members according to the findings of the latest opinion poll conducted earlier this month by the North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA).

Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton and Agriculture Minister Noel Holder are considered “worst ministers” while Carl Greenidge and Moses Nagamootoo are considered as the best parliamentary debaters on the Government side, with Bharrat Jagdeo rated as the best debater on the Opposition side.

With regards to who should lead the PPP as Congress meets, almost every PPP supporter said Bharrat Jagdeo, followed by Irfaan Ali, Anil Nandlall, and Dr Frank Anthony. Supporters of the

PPP feel the party needs young leadership, saying the “old timers” should make way for new blood.

The party supporters feel the political future of the PPP hangs in the balance at the next Congress and without new leadership (at the Central Committee and Executive Committee levels), the future will be dull.

The findings also reveal that respondents are concerned about the present and future status of their country: A majority feel the country is returning to the abominable period of Burnhamism when their human and democratic rights (including the right to choose a government in free and fair elections) were taken away.

The NACTA opinion poll was conducted by political scientist Dr Vishnu Bisram. The findings were based on interviews with 710 voters reflecting the demographic composition of the population.

The analysis was done at a 95 per cent confidence

Dr Vishnu Bisram

level with a margin of error of 4 per cent on either side.

Asked who they rate as the best performing Minister, respondents are divided among Cathy Hughes who leads followed

by Public Works Minister David Patterson, Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge, and Education Minister Rupert Roopnaraine. The

others trail way behind, hardly obtaining any positives.

Respondents, including PNC and APNU supporters, have very low level of confidence in the ability and capacity of most of the other ministers. They feel Norton and Holder don’t have a clue about their job.

Asked who they rate as the best Opposition Parliamentarian, Jagdeo takes the honours from virtually every respondent. Asked who is the best Opposition MP aside from Jagdeo, Irfaan Alli leads, followed by Anil Nandlall and Frank Anthony with the others trailing.

Supporters of the PPP and AFC complain about the state of the country, claiming political and racial victimisation and palpable fear of a return of the past under the Burnham and Hoyte dictatorships.

The older generation say the present atmosphere remind them of Burnhamism when basic goods were banned and

their basic rights to food of their choice and speech were violated. Asked if they think the country is returning to the Burhamite period, 51 per cent said yes with 32 per cent saying no, and 17 per cent saying they are not sure.

Respondents were asked to describe the present condition of the coun-

try.

Almost everyone was negative, using words like blight, standstill, hopeless, pessimistic, terrible, dreadful, poor, depressing, heart-broken, desperate, backward, among others.

A majority say the government does not know what it is doing nor even how to run a country.

GPOC releases new locally themed postage stamps: “Bauxite Centennial 1916-2016”

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he Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC), in collaboration with the Bauxite Centennial Committee, unveiled four new commemorative postage stamps on October 27, 2016, at the Three Friends Mine, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The stamps were released in observance of bauxite’s Centennial Anniversary. Stamps are available in $80, $140, $150 and $180 denominations at Post Offices countrywide.

Commemorative stamps are the perfect memorabilia to celebrate an anniversary or significant event. Such stamps are circulated both lo-

cally and internationally. Stamps also attract the interest of philatelists who purchase, sell and store them as prized collectables, a Government Information Agency (GINA) release stated.

Bauxite mining commenced in Linden (Mackenzie) in October 1916. GPOC congratulates the stewards of the Guyana Bauxite Industry on its centennial anniversary.

Moreover, anyone who would like to obtain First Day Covers of this new issue of commemorative stamps should contact GPOC’s Philatelic Services Department at Robb Street, Georgetown, or on phone number 225-9002 or email us at philatelic@guypost.gy

NEWS

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

Backpacker to begin hike to North West on November 1

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ith anticipation and excitement very much alive, the 59-year-old lone traveller who did the unthinkable by walking for 23 days from the bustling streets of Georgetown through the vast savannahs and into Lethem, is set to embark on another exhilarating adventure; this time to the North West District.

Overseas-based Guyanese Ric Couchman will set off on November 1 from his brother’s home in Queenstown, Georgetown, with a huge haversack packed with essentials strapped to his back, and walk towards the northern most part of Guyana.

The North West District, Region One (Barima-Waini), covers an area of 20,339 square kilometres and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, the Region of Pomeroon-Supenaam to the east, the Region of Cuyuni-Mazaruni to the south and Venezuela to the west.

This wonderful gem is populated by Amerindian settlements: Mabaruma, Moruca, Port Kaituma, Santa Rosa Mission, Barabina Hill, Hosororo – to name a few of the popular communities that boast of breath-taking nature havens, including beaches and waterfalls.

In a social media post, Couchman said that as the second segment of his journey beckons, a whole new feeling of adventure awakens with its little blocks of fear of venturing into the

tive thoughts of family, friends, and well-wishers,” Couchman noted.

Commenting on his long journey ahead, the former Dean of a New York High School admitted that it will certainly be no “cake walk”.

“I anticipate traversing that part of the land mostly by boat as there are few footpaths connecting the various settlements. I am fully rested and primed and am prepared spiritually, mentally, and physically for the challenges that lie ahead,” he said.

Couchman emphasised that his objectives remain the same and in fact, are perhaps more solidified than ever.

He had told Guyana Times that the purpose of his walks across his home-

Ric Couchman and travel companion Jerry Benjamin on their journey to Lethem

unknown.

“You would think that having just walked 553 kilometres from Georgetown to Lethem, I would be thinking, ‘I gat dis,’ that is far from the truth. You see, every journey has its own nuances, its own character, and its own challenges. It is never like the previous journey,” he expressed.

The trained hiker explained that fear is always there but he embraces it wholeheartedly.

“It keeps me humble, makes me more careful, and helps me to realise that I, in my own strength and with my wilderness skills, can never succeed alone but that I must rely on the prayers and posi-

land is to fine-tune, recalibrate, and repair his inner self, to reconnect with the heart and soul (the land, the people) of his country, and use his walk as a forum for putting the spotlight on the issues affecting Guyana.

Couchman grew up in Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara, and during his teenage years he had developed a yearning to explore the length and breadth of his country by simply walking.

A young Couchman at one point had left his job with the intent to follow his dreams but good sense eventually prevailed; and he decided to put a hold on his burning desire but some decades later he has returned to pursue his lifelong dream.

He journeyed from Georgetown to Lethem by foot and was subsequently joined by a curious spectator who also had a passion for adventure.

Jerry Benjamin learnt of Couchman’s bold undertaking and promptly decided to be part of this historic expedition.

He joined Couchman on the Linden/Soesdyke Highway on Day Two of the journey and together they braved the extreme weather and chilling nights in the jungle until they arrived at their destination.

Upon completing his voyage to the North West District, Couchman intends to trek from Georgetown to Skeldon, Region Six (East Berbice Corentyne) in the near future.

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

news

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saturday, october 29, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Guyanese living in fear – former President …‘We need to cut small criminals to get big ones’ – Ramjattan

F

ormer President Donald Ramotar called out the Coalition Administration in a communication to the media on Friday, highlighting that Guyanese fearing for their safety continues to mount in light of the crime situation, while stakeholders are voicing concerns of the high crime rate.

Ramotar recognised that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) alone cannot alleviate the occurrence of these crimes that taking place. On this note, he referred to recent comments made by acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine on the role of the judiciary in crime fighting.

“He is only partially correct in this regard. In passing, I have noticed that he has not mentioned the consistent release of prisoners from the lockups. What the public needs to know is what kind of crime the persons being released were charged/convicted for and how many go back to crime.

I have no doubt that this too contributes to crimes in the society,” he stated.

The former President went on to say that the crimes being committed now are heavily linked to the performance of the economy. He outlined that with little to no initiatives being taken to create jobs, people are losing hope while some have resorted to criminal activities.

This situation Ramotar said has not only put the safety and security of families on the line, but that too of businesses that are struggling in what seems to be a stagnant economy.

The former Head of State continued that with good Policing, if the issues raised by the acting Police Commissioner, whom he emphasised has inner knowledge of the system,

are acted upon, then it will go a far way in drastically reducing the crime rate.

Exploring security measures

However, as concerns continue to mount from various sectors of society, Government has been exploring different measures to arrest the crime situation. One such will be to focus on taming small criminals.

This was disclosed by Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan on Friday when he told reporters that the big criminals usually feed on the smaller ones and so efforts need to be directed towards nipping those “petty criminals”.

“If we start cutting the base, that apex will tumble down – that’s my philosophy and so that’s the base that we want, the little fella that go in the car and snatch that and whatever,” Ramjattan remarked at a press conference hosted by the Alliance For Change (AFC) party, of which he is the leader.

According to the Security Minister, if such a strategy is adopted then it will allow the ‘Major Crime Squad’ to better identify and recognise the highprofile criminals and then focus on taking them down as well.

On the other hand, he posited that another step that needs to be taken to reduce the amount of crimes in the country, particularly robberies, is for Guyana to move from cash to plastic transactions.

He outlined that statistics have proven that countries which deal with plastic cards have experienced a 35 per cent reduction with regards to opportunity crimes. He added too that Governor of the Bank of Guyana has forwarded him a communication detailing that World

Former President Donald Ramotar

Banks have indicated intentions to engage in less cash transactions.

Joining the Public Security Ministry on this topic was fellow AFC executive member and Minister of Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes, who pointed out that Guyanese need to be responsible and avoid much cash transactions, particularly when it involves large sums.

“We have to understand that in today’s world, we have to start moving away from the heavy emphasis we have with using cash and carrying large amounts of cash…We are failing to protect ourselves, we are not thinking.

There are other ways of doing financial transactions and so we really need

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

to move away from carrying large amounts of cash,” she asserted.

Also the Public Security

Minister mentioned a series of other measures that will be undertaken by his administration to curb the crime situation, including the introduction of bicycle brigades – an initiative that Guyana and other Caribbean countries will benefit from training provided by the United States.

This will see specially trained law enforcement officers patrolling busy streets in the city, as well as communities to prevent crimes. However, these efforts are being embarked upon against the backdrop of Government and the GPF maintaining that crime is not on the rise as is the public perception.

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guyana-times.com

saturday, october 29, 2016

Around the world

St Vincent PM announces prisoners' release, permanent jobs

P

rime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves says he will soon order the release of a number of young prisoners, and make permanent the appointment of 100 clerks in the public service.

St Vincent and the Grenadines Thursday celebrated its 37th year of political independence from Britain and in his address to mark the occasion, Gonsalves said following the necessary procedures he intends to advise the Governor General to order the release of some young men and women who are serving terms of imprisonment “for relatively minor offences.

“I consider that in all the circumstances that these young persons ought to be

St Vincent Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves

given a second chance. This

is the internationally proclaimed Year of Mercy by persons of faith and we ought to exercise it appropriately to deal with young persons and others,” said Gonsalves, a Roman Catholic.

He announced that 110 people who are employed as temporary clerks, some of them for several years in the public service, will all be afforded permanent status from January 1, 2017. “This will provide them with the necessary job security and attendant benefits as public servants.” On the basis of the 2016 CSEC and CAPE examination, 629 students who achieved the requisite standard will shortly receive a cash grant of EC$500 each.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Hillary Clinton email probe reopens F

BI Director James Comey has said the bureau is reopening its investigation into Hillary Clinton's emails.

Investigators have discovered new emails "in connection with an unrelated case... that appear to be pertinent to the investigation", he said. Comey said investigators would determine whether the emails contain classified information.

The FBI has already found the Democratic candidate had classified information on a private email server. Comey had previously called Mrs Clinton's handling of classified information during her time as Secretary of State "extremely careless", but cleared her of any criminal wrongdoing.

Hacked Clinton campaign emails have been released almost every day by Wikileaks

The FBI chief said in his

letter to Congress he "cannot yet assess whether or not this material may significant, and I cannot predict how long it will take us to complete this additional work".

The potential bombshell comes just 11 days before Americans go to the polls in the presidential election.

Mrs Clinton is five points ahead of her Republican rival Donald Trump, according to a Real Clear Politics average.

At a rally in Manchester, New Hampshire, Trump told a cheering crowd: "They've reopened the case into her criminal and illegal conduct that threatens the security of the United States of America. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Colombia, rebels say incorporating new proposals into peace deal

C

o l o m b i a ' s Government and FARC rebels are incorporating changes into the peace deal that was rejected in a referendum earlier this month in a bid to swiftly salvage the accord, both sides said on Friday.

The Government and rebels are back at the negotiating table in Havana where they have been holding talks for four years on ending a 52-year-old conflict that has killed more than 220,000 people.

"We have analysed the proposals of changes and precisions to the final accord that different sectors of the society have suggested," they said in a joint statement that they read out in a news conference in Havana.

"The proposals are being discussed carefully and

many are being incorporated into the texts of a new accord," the statement said, without describing the proposed changes.

Colombian voters rejected the original deal by a razor-thin margin of less than half a percentage point, with opponents saying it was too lenient on the Marxist rebels.

Led by hardline former President Alvaro Uribe, the "No" side was outraged the accord offered the FARC 10 congressional seats and did not foresee jailing the rebels' leaders.

On Friday, the FARC and Government delegations said they would pick up talks next Thursday, November 3, "with the aim of reaching quickly and efficiently a new definitive agreement." (Excerpt from BBC News)

Enslaved teen boys dial for help from Indian shoe factory

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olice have rescued 10 teenage boys, allegedly trafficked and held in bondage in a shoe-sole factory in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, after a tip-off from a children's helpline. Hundreds of children, mostly from poor rural areas of northern Indian states like Bihar, are brought to Bengaluru in Karnataka every year by agents who sell them into bonded labour or hire them out to unscrupulous employers, activists say.

"I sneaked out one night and bought a telephone card," teenager Adhir Paswan, 18, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in a telephone interview. "I made the distress call to our families and a helpline in Bihar. We were not being paid and the young-

er boys were being beaten and abused."

One of the boys, 17, said in a statement they hadn't been paid in over a year.

Earlier this month, six boys from Bihar were rescued from a decoration-making factory in Bengaluru. A 2015 report by the International Labour Organisation puts the number of child workers in India aged between five and 17 at 5.7 million, out of 168 million globally.

In a statement, rescuers said the boys, aged between 14 and 18, had been brought to Bengaluru from Sitamarhi district in Bihar state by at least five different traffickers. The boys had been working at the factory for between one and 14 months. (Excerpt from Reuters)

saturday, OCTOBER 29, 2016

Green Machine powering ahead with Beharry Group

Peter Green (centre) is happy to accept the sponsorship from Kamini Naresh while players and representatives of the Beharry Group show their appreciation

C

orporate giant Edward B. Beharry and Company Limited has recommitted its support for the National Rugby Team by being their brand sponsor for the upcoming Rugby Americas North (RAN) 7’s Championship in Trinidad and Tobago from November 12 to 13.

The simple ceremony was held at the company's Wellington and Charlotte Street branch on Friday in

the presence of Beharry’s Brand Manager Kamini Naresh, Marketing Manager Satesh Singh, President of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) Peter Green and members of the Rugby team.

Naresh in her comments stated that "we are very proud to be a part of the sponsorship and are proud of your achievements; we are proud to help in nurturing your talents and this is our way of giving back."

8-team EDFA senior league will be heated

President of the EDFA Alfred King (centre) and fellow EDFA members and players of the teams at the launch of the League

T

he East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) officially launched its Senior League which will see eight teams competing for cash prizes, trophies and other gears. This competition will also see the best coach winning a motor cycle.

This announcement was made on Friday by the President of the EDFA Alfred King in the presence of the Association’s executives and representatives of football clubs.

This two-round competition will include teams such as Plaisance Panthers, BV/Triumph United, Buxton Stars, Golden Stars, Victoria Kings, Ann’s Grove United, Mahaica Determinators, and Bachelor’s Adventure/Paradise Sports Clubs.

The first match will kick-off on November 6 at the Golden Grove Ground where the contenders will be Golden Stars VS BV/Triumph United.

The cash prizes range from $200,000 to $50,000; the golden boots and $25,000 for the MVP, full uniform for the best goal keeper and trophies.

The sponsors for the competition include the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Integrated Security, Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport, Demerara Harbour Bridge, Sterling Products, Keltech, Trophy Stall and Jerrick’s Funeral Home.

At the launching, participating football clubs were presented with 10 footballs each compliments of the GFF.

“On behalf of our company, Edward B. Beharry

and Company, we are very proud to be a part of the sponsorship and we are very proud of your achievement and we are happy to contribute in any way we can and help nurture your talent,” Naresh said.

Similarly, the Marketing Manager was pleased to continue partnership with the team but views their support, "as one where they are not just sponsors but friends."

“Beharry has been proud to be associated with this

team for a number of years now … we don’t have just this corporate sponsorship going on but we have developed a closeness and is proud to be partners after the rugby team has consistently dominated the Caribbean.” Singh pointed out.

Meanwhile, Green in his address was grateful for the support by revealing that "Guyana are seven-time Caribbean Regional Champions but the sponsorship is critical as the union

27

winds up its 2016 activities."

“The Guyana team you have here is a well blend of youth and experience, it is up to the players now to recognize that sponsorship, the money backing them must not be thrown to the waste side, and they got to play 100%.” Green stated.

The sponsorship also covers the female team which also are under intense training sessions at the National Rugby Field.

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GUYANA-TIMES.COM

saturday, october 29, 2016

Pee-Wee Boys Under-11 Schools football Championship...

Round of 16 kicks off today

T

he Pee-Wee Boys Under-11 Schools football Championship has reached the round-of 16 phase and will see eight exciting

Match No.

matches being played at the Banks DIH Thirst Park Ground.

Defending champions St. Angela’s will be looking to extend their winning

Teams

37

Marian Academy vs Winfer Gardens Primary

38 39 40 41 42

St. Stephen’s Primary vs Tucville Primary F.E. Pollard Primary vs Stella Maris Primary St. Pius Primary vs Redeemer Primary North Georgetown Primary vs St. Margaret’s Primary St. Angela’s Primary vs Mae’s Primary

43 44

St. Agnes Primary vs South Ruimveldt Primary West Ruimveldt Primary vs St. Gabriel’s Primary

ways to keep their hopes alive of retaining their title when they take on Mae’s Primary.

Tucville will be eager to rebound from a tough loss to the deTime fending champions but they will meet an impressive St. 11:00h Stephen’s Primary who have 11:00h looked extremely impres11:45h sive to date; former champs 11:45h Stella Maris will also look to continue their winning ways.

12:30h There would not be fur12:30h ther elimination as such the 13:15h remaining teams will be vying for positions 1 to 16.

13:15h

New Era/ Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal 2016

Lots at stake in 3rd annual Linden tournament

M

ohamed’s Enterprise of Lombard Street has joined forces with the New Era Entertainment to stage the third annual Futsal tournament billed for the Mc Kenzie Sports Club Ground (MSC), Linden.

According to the organizers, the major sponsorship was much welcomed as the enterprise has joined in an elite group including Ansa McAl through its Mackeson brand, which has been a part of the tournament since its inaugural season and local mobile outlet Cell Smart.

Nazar Mohamed, proprietor of Mohamed’s Enterprise indicated that it was a pleasure to be on board with the organizers for this programme after being in close relation to sports for more than 20 years.

“It’s always been a pleasure to associate with sports particularly with the people of Linden.” Mohamed went on to say that “we have been a proud sponsor for nearly 25 years and now we are here to support this initiative.”

Mohamed also explained that Linden is like his second home and sport is necessary for cohesion while pledging a lengthy support to sport in Guyana. Earlier this year Mohamed’s enterprise had reconstructed the Pavilion of the MSC ground.

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of New Era, Kenrick Noel explained how the tournament will unfold as well as the differences this year.

“The tournament will be played on November 25, 26 December 3, 9 10, 17 and 26 which would be the finals.

The winning prize is a whopping $400,000 with trophies, while the losing finalist will pocket $150,000 and a trophy. The winning team in the third place play off will get $75,000 and trophy while fourth prize is just a trophy.”

Noel lamented.

The PRO also highlighted that they will be looking to expand from 14 games last year to 20 or more this year and also include the females and the exhibition games such as Promoters taking on Referees, buses battling taxis and others which will attract entrance fees of $5,000.

Noting Guyana’s poor run at the IGG Futsal, both Noel and Mohamed reminded that the tournament will attract youngsters who will in turn transfer their skills in the schools and in the future, improve the sport.

Jamal Douglas, Mackeson brand manager, related that it was a pleasure for the company to be a part of this as it will help develop the youths and promote sports.

According to one of the organizers, Aubrey Major Jr. the tournament is expected to surpass the high standard set last year which saw a packed MSC ground witness Magic Stars defeat Silver Bullet in an exciting finals.

Action in the finals last year between Magic Stars and Silver Bullets

29

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flowers Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

immigration Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates.

Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 655-3105. Email: balwantpersaud@ yahoo.ca IMMIGRATION SERVICES PROFESSIONALLY PREPARED BY IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT. PASSPORT AND VISA APPLICATIONS (PERMANENT/VISITOR) FOR USA, CANADA, UK, CHINA, INDIA, ETC. SABITA’S IMMIGRATION SERVICES. TEL: 225-6496/662-6045

KEY CUTTing Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown.

Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 6213249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today.

optician Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 3393536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 9431515 for the perfect trendy touch.

health Healthworld Clinic – Providing professional psychological thera-

py for all mental and behavioral health problems. Call (592)-6901824 Mondays-Saturdays 9am3pm. Email; healthworldhc@ gmail.com

lAND FOR SALE Land for Sale. 1.5 Acres WBD. Close to Plantation Walk, VreedEn-Hoop. Call: 658-0115 Land at La Grange Public Road, Size 4 Acre, could be used for commercial or housing scheme. Tel: 6251514 Formerly Globe Cinema, Corner lot, Church and Waterloo Street Size 125 ft x 133 ft Tel: 610-2234 Transported Land for Sale at Logwood Enmore, ECD. Contact Tel: (592)-622-5824 or (592)-6715395.

property for sale House and land available for sale.

Contact Pacific Development Inc. Tel:- 223-6035/227-8274 House Lot, Diamond New Scheme between 2nd & 3rd Ave. Contact: 638-1529 Eccles: $27M Neg. Enterprise Sec C: $20M Neg. Mon Repos: $30M Neg. South Ruimveldt Park: $20M Neg. Broad Street: $80M Neg. Charlotte Street between Camp & Alexander: $55M Neg. Providence (land): $6.5M Neg. Parfaite Harmonie (land): $4.5M Neg. Contact: 6911521

taxi services GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 225-7878, 219-5000 or 227-2100

VEHICLES FOR SALE FOR SALE 1 FLAT TRAY NISSAN PICK UP. VERY GOOD CONDITION. CALL: 662-3997 OR 610-4897 1 TOYOTA IPSUM (7-SEATER) IN EXCELLENT WORKING CONDITION WITH MUSIC (5800 W): CONTACT 653-1003 JUST ARRIVED: TOP QUALITY RECONDITIONED VEHICLES; TOYOTA NOAH; TOYOTA VOXY; TOYOTA IST (NEW SHAPE); SUZUKI SWIFT; DAIHATSU MOVE (660CC); MERCEDES BENZ C200 KOMPRESSOR; COROLLA AE100 WAGON; TOYOTA HIACE MINIBUS RZ; PITBULL-STYLE FREEZER VAN; LAND CRUISER (FULLY LOADED); MAZDA PROCEED 4WD EXTRA-CAB PICK-UP; TOYOTA HILUX 4WD EXTRA CAB PICKUPS - 3RZ, 5L, 3L SOLID DEFFERNTIAL; MITSUBISHI CANTER TRUCKS 4 TONS FREEZER; 3 TONS OPEN TRAY; 2 TONS 4WD; NISSAN ATLAS 2 TONS OPEN TRAY TRUCK. PRE-ORDER YOUR UNITS EARLY AND GET THE BEST PRICES. FULL AFTER SALES SERVICES AND FINANCING AVAILABLE. DEO MARAJ AUTO SALES, 2 CHIMNEY ROAD, CHATEAU MARGOT, ECD. 624-0762, 220-5177. A NAME AND SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST

GOOD HOPE AND OGLE. CONTACT: 673-5546, 222-3066, 682-7257, 679-0987 House for sale leonora market housing scheme, west coast demerara. 2 Floor, 3 bedroom, 2 shower, 2 kitchen, yard, double garage, tel: Amar 225-3737, 651-7078

Repairs and Spares, Air Conditioning, Car AC, Washers, Stoves. Call Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206

WANTED

urniture and appliance giants, Courts Guyana, is now 23 years old and still going strong. The mega store has once again partnered with the Lusignan Golf Course for the annual Courts Open which tees off tomorrow.

This tournament serves as the perfect warm up for the Guyana Open with local and overseas golfers getting in shape for next weekend’s 2-day 36-hole international invitational tournament.

Country Manager of Courts, Clyde De Haas, indicated that despite the economic environment that prevails, his company remains committed to supporting golfing in Guyana via its sponsorship.

Known as an outstanding corporate citizen, Courts has also been very supportive of numerous sporting and health activities in Guyana including Pee Wee Football, Elite League Football, a Polio Walk and the Health & Fitness Expo 2014 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Winners of the 2014 annual Courts golf tournament, played under the Flights system were; A-Flight - Patrick Prashad and Avinda ‘Gangully’ Kishore’; B-Flight Rishi Sukhram and Ian Gouveia; C-Flight – Pur Persaud and Mahendra Bhagwandin; Ladies Flight - Juliet Prince.

Nearest To the Pin was a ‘Hole in One’

by Mohanlall ‘Santo’ Dinanauth, , the second player in the Club’s history to score a hole-in-one stroke, during a tournament, Joaan Deo being the first to do so about 2009.

In 2015, the tournament was played on the open Medal Play system, with Mike

Courts Marketing Manager, Pernell Cummins, Public Relations Officer of the LCC, Guy Griffith and President of LCC, Oncar Ramroop at the symbolic sponsorship cheque handing over

Gayadin, M. Shivraj and Avinash Persaud coming out on top.

Tee-off is scheduled for 8:30h tomorrow and a special invitation is extended to the public to view the competition free of charge. The tournament was moved since today is Diwali.

British supermarket

services House plans & estimates, weeding of grass and spraying done within 48hrs. Call: 216-0671; 622-0267; 692-8464

F

Golfers take on Courts Open

223-7230-1 (Ext: 35) NOW!

Wanted One Gasoline Mechanic to work on the ECD. Contact #: 623-0318

supporting local sport

development

WANTED 1 COSMETOLOGIST. APPLY IN PERSON, SHARON’S BUILDING – CHARLOTTE AND KING STREETS. SALES GIRLS WITH EXPERIENCE PLEASE BRING WRITTEN APPLICATION AND CV TO TRISTAR ELECTRICAL, BRASSONIC Bldg. (MAIN ENTRANCE 42 WATER ST. G/Town. 231-7101

TO let 3-Bedroom apartment at 482 Herstelling, EBD. Contact: 265-3307 or Whatsapp: 1-917-502-4302 2 Bedroom Furnished Apartment, close to the University of Guyana, Teachers’ Training College and Texila American University. $55,000 (Utilities Included) Contact:- 6859127

spirituality Dutch spiritual healing in removing evil spirit, bad luck, evil sickness, spells, reuniting lovers and prosperity to business. Call: 612-6417, 687-5653

223-7230-1 (Ext: 35)

Surinamese spiritualist. Resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage etc.

Call 223-6834/600-7719.

Suriname’s Astrology, Palmist and Hindustani Spiritual Healer, solve all purpose problems, 100% confidential guaranteed. Phone: 602-8997 HEPHZIBAH MINISTRIES 24 hrs Prayer Line 322-5081, 322-5738, 3225788, 337-4510, 337-4259, 337-3070, 337-5103. For healing, deliverance, financial difficulties, marriage issues call now. Jesus Cares.

Ifa Temple – Are you having serious problems and urgently need spiritual help? Call 621-0552 now. Email: anew-life@live.com

T

Anthony Price donating branded jerseys to the Number 28 Village football team

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call: 223-7230 Ext 35

he Sainsbury Supermarket has partnered with Anthony Price to get in the good habit of donating to the development of sports in Guyana.

Price, who is an English-based Guyanese, said he has been working with the supermarket for over 12 years and took the idea to the manager of the Winchester branch of the company, Patsy Fraff who immediately pounced on the opportunity to help develop his (Price) native land in the area of sport.

Noting the challenges sport faces in Guyana, so far the company has donated a quantity of jerseys to clubs such as the Trafalgar Sports Club located in Number 28 Village West Coast, Berbice as well as football gears in Linden, cricket gears in Berbice and running shoes to athletes across Georgetown.

According to the Price, some of the shoes donated had attracted a cost of over $10,000

while more than 55 jerseys were donated.

Many of the youngsters receiving the gears were all thankful to be noticed and appreciative to have persons who actually cared about the well being and development of sports locally.

Price, who was an adamant athlete in his day, said that the target groups for the project is to provide equipment to teams and kids who are in desperate need of these gears.

“The youths should be in school or on a field playing not robbing and falling into bad company” Price stated, “and this is why our efforts have been thriving for over six years in Guyana.

Sainsbury Limited has been making charitable works in England for a number of years and has taken the opportunity to participate in such activities in Guyana after seeing potential in athletes.

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GUYANA-TIMES.COM

saturday, october 29, 2016

Stag Elite League 2 Friendship hangs on in kicks off November 13 low scoring cliff hanger T F

GCB/National Secondary School Cricket League 2016

riendship Secondary were crowned East Bank Demerara (EBD) zone champions after they defeated Diamond Secondary in a tense low scoring final which was played at Everest on Friday October 28 when the 2016 edition of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) National Secondary School Cricket League (NSSCL) continued.

Diamond won the toss and elected to take first strike but they could only manage 81 all out in 22.3 overs. Mavendra Shot! Shem Zaman sweeps for four on his way to 33 Dindyal top scored with 14 which was his first low score of the competition. Romario Persaud was the only other batsman to reach double figures contributing 13. Shem Zaman wrecked the Diamond batsmen as he took 4-14, skipper Orlando Ghisiawan had 2-9 and Jonathan Jagdeo claimed 2-15 bowling for Friendship.

Friendship started ‘shaky’ when they lost their first five wickets for 33 runs. However, Shem Zaman and Shawn Harry took the score to 81 before Zaman was dismissed for 33.

Two further wickets fell on the same score as a revived Diamond Secondary hopes of a tie grew stronger. Shawn Harry’s lucky inside edge down to fine leg for a single sent the Friendship team into a frenzy after pulling off a tense chase. Harry finished on 19 not out.

Bowling for Diamond Secondary, Anil Singh took 3-24 while Mavendra Dindyal had 2-20.

The NSSCL continues Tuesday November 1, 2016 with defending champions Chase Academy playing Christ Church at GCC, Bourda from 10:30h.

he Guyana Football Federation (GFF) on Friday revealed that season two of the Stag Elite League will kick off on Sunday November 13 following ‘thorough consultations.’

This edition will see the number of teams increased from eight to 10 but was objected to with the GFF saying that the “Executive Committee has the authority to modify the Competition Regulations and would be entitled to add additional clubs with a purely sporting objective,” noting that it is their opinion that there was no contract.

The GFF also claims to have the issue of game day management being outsourced to the clubs that are venue owners with GFF justifying it by pointing out that “most venue-owning clubs have indicated a willingness to execute this activity; one is reviewing the proposal. The objective of this proposal is to allow clubs the opportunity to earn and reinvest the money in their

GFF President Wayne Forde

growth and in other development programmes.”

According to a release from the GFF, the process used to determine the inclusion of the two additional clubs into the League was questioned and it was then explained that the selection had to be made from the three clubs that had already acquired their 2015/2016 club Licenses, and that demographics then guided the choice of a Linden club and an East ECD club. The

two (2) additional clubs will therefore be retained for League 2016/2017.

President of the GFF, Wayne Forde indicated that the issue of having 25 players registered for the increased number of games was not an issue since the number of rounds was reduced.

It was asked how the GFF planned to execute the random drug testing of players.

It was also disclosed from the release that “a comprehensive Elite League Plan was then distributed to all of the Elite League Clubs on Friday September 2 for their perusal prior to a meeting being called to discuss same followed by an Elite League Planning Committee meeting which was then called and hosted by the GFF on Friday September 9 to discuss the draft Elite League Plan with all of the Elite League Clubs and the two proposed additional Clubs represented at this meeting.

Former Guyanese-born USA cricketer retires

By Ravi Madholall

F

ormer USA player Clain Willaims has announced his retirement from the game recently citing family commitment and give the chance to the youths as the main reasons.

Born in Essequibo, Guyana, Williams earned his first international call-up in 2010 representing the team at the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cricket League (WCL) Division 5

competition while the same year, the right-handed batsman also played against Jamaica national side in an invitational match.

Despite not making a great impression with the bat or his occasional offbreak, Williams was still grateful to wear his adopted country colours.

He stated that had wanted to play the game at the ultimate stage since he began his playing days for Essequibo at the annual

Guyana Cricket Board intercounty tournament but only realised his dreams in North America.

“I decided to retire based on two reasons, the main reason is that I felt it was time to give more time to family, and secondly I believe I needed to make way for the next generation because I was playing and there were youths on the bench. That kind of got to me,” Williams declared.

Quizzed on his most challenging time since he started

at the youth level, Williams felt it was at the Guyana national trial where he scored heavily but was still overlooked for reasons he could not have believe.

“I think the biggest challenge I overcame in the cricketing arena came when I was trying to figure out, where did I come up short in 1999 when I didn't make the Guyana Under-19 squad; I was thoroughly surprised because I made a lot of runs, but in the end I turned that into

motivation to dig deeper,” Williams acknowledged.

For Williams, he knew his cricketing aspiration will one day be achieved and once he arrived on the American soil, he immediately rejuvenated his ambition.

He started off with GWIA and subsequently gone on

Clain Williams of Big Apple Cricket Club stroke and unbeaten 102. Photo by Shiek Mohamed

to represent various clubs including Wanderers Cricket Club, GWIA, Atlantis Cricket Club, The Big Apple Cricket Club and Liberty Cricket Club.

His talent was spotted and once he touched gloves with several of his countrymen, he gave tremendous thanks to the Almighty and the late former Guyana fastbowler and Coach Courtney Gonsalves.

Some players who would have played for Guyana at different levels and featured in the USA team the same time as Williams were Lennox Cush and Kevin Darlington.

Apart from Gonsalves, many other administrators and players came in for praise. He also thanked several members from village club, Relaince Sports Club for their support during the time he was honing his skills.

Williams would have been one of the many play-

ers that played for Essequibo and Guyana at various levels from Reliance and some of cricketers are Ronsford Beaton, Lawrence Farnum, Rovendra and Shivanandan (deceased) Mandolall, Mohindra Boodram and Balchand Shivamber (deceased).

Williams also mentioned when arriving in USA and wanted to get into the side, would have been a very competitive but he was willing to work feverishly and with determination and perseverance.

“I broke into the US squad in 2010, it was a tough squad to make, but I made my case in the trials to warrant a spot for the Dubai/ Nepal tour and the Bermuda tour; the thing is you can never predict USA cricket, it was like the stock market, you're never sure, the cricket itself had its challenges, but I'll leave it at that,” Williams divulged.

Tennis Inter Guiana Games, Cayenne 2016

Guyana, Suriname level at the end of opening day

By Delvon Mc Ewan in Cayenne

A

fter dropping their first three games on the opening morning of the Tennis Inter Guiana Games (IGG), Guyana clawed their way back with several wins which saw them levelled with their rivals Suriname at the League Centre in Cayenne French Guiana by press time.

In a superb display Ciara Pooran won Guyana’s first game 6-0, 6-1 over her Dutch counterpart Amaris Gregory in the girls under 14 category.

Her patience and her ability to utilize both the backhand and the forehand upon returns gave her the advantage over her opponents. She also worked a match winning tactics by hitting the ball around the court in an effort to get her opponent tired while she preserved her energy.

The win gave Guyana momentum and thereafter Jordan Beaton won against Giordi Samson 6-1 in two sets in the boys under 14, under 18 competitor Afruica Gentle, who is Guyana number one rated junior female player claimed victory by 6-1 margins in two sets while by midafter-

Sarah Klautky about to serve against Surinamese Alia Koorndijkin

noon Sarah Klautky had secured Guyana’s fourth win with a 6-0 6-1 drubbing of Surinamese Alia Koorndijk.

But the Dutch never gave up the fight as Glen Mannes and the very petite Shane Hermelijn gained victories over Mark McDonald and Vadeanand Resaul in the respective under-18 and under-12 to take Suriname up by one game 5-4. Then it soon became 6-4 as Kalycer Fraser surrendered to Jill

31 Upper Corentyne defeated Skeldon by 7 wickets T guyana-times.com

saturday, october 29, 2016

Ma A Jang 6-4, 6-2.

Subsequently the eventful seesaw day continued as the senior of the Kalekyezi brothers, Joshua, in the longest singles match of the day which lasted 50 minutes defeated Juwell Ritfeld 6-4, 6-3 in two hard fought sets. While Guyana’s number three ranked female Nicola Ramdyhan level the score with a win in the final singles match of the day.

So neighbours Guyana and

Suriname ended the day on six singles wins apiece.

Meanwhile, in the doubles Guyana lost their first two matches in the boys’ under-18 and under-12. Heimraj Resaul and McDonald lost to the Mannes brothers 6-2 6-1 while Vadeanand Resaul and Jeremiah Kalekyezi went down to Hermelijn and Issa 4-2 4-0.

In the girls’ under-12 doubles, Jones and Klautky nearly give up their match against Sadiek and Koorndijk after winning the first set 4-2. They lost the second set 2-4 but recovered to win the match 10-5.

While In the girls under-14 doubles battle, Pooran and Fraser defeated Jang and Gregory 6-3 6-2.

At press time there were heated battles in the boys under-14 and girls under-18.

French Guiana and Martinique were level on points after an exciting day of intense battles between the two French nations.

Guyana will clash with the host nation tomorrow while Martinique and reigning champions Suriname will play.

he Upper Corentyne first division team defeated Skeldon Community Centre in a specially arranged 50 overs match by the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association (UCCA) at the Skeldon Community Centre last Saturday.

Upper Corentyne winning the toss and inserted Skeldon to take first strike. Skeldon were bowled out for 170 in 34.1 overs with Gajendra Nauth hitting the top score of 51 and was supported by Victor Pedro with 42 not out and Christopher Jaundoo 29.

Bowling for Upper Corentyne Lakeram Latchman had impressive figures of 8-1-23-4 while Davanand Chatterpaul (1-9), Jameel Assad (1-39) and Naeem Yacoob (1-24) were the wicket takers.

Naeem yacoob

Lakeram Latchman

In the run chase, Upper Corentyne raced to 174 for 3 off 28.4 overs as Naeem Yacoob 49, Lakeram Latchman 46, Tameshwar Ramoutar 31 not out and Davanand Chatterpaul 12 not out among the runs for the victors. Bowling for Skeldon; Jermaine Reid (1-22), Clavern Beresfored (1-30) and Gajendra Nauth (1-27) tried their best to restrict Upper Corentyne. Meanwhile, the UCCA has announced that Davanand Chatterpaul of Number 72 Cut and Load Cricket Club will be the captain and Naeem Yacoob with be the vice-captain for the UCCA first division team for the upcoming Berbice Cricket Board Tenelec Inc 50 overs competition which will commence shortly.

saturday, october 29, 2016

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

New Era/ Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal 2016 Pg 28

Lots at stake in 3rd annual Linden tournament (L-R) Jamal Douglas, Aubrey Major Jr., Shareef Major, Nazar Mohamed, Kenrick Noel and Mark Younge at the sponsorship ceremony at Mohamed’s Enterprise

GCB/National Secondary School Cricket League 2016

Tennis Inter Guiana Games, Cayenne 2016

Guyana, Suriname level at Friendship hangs on in low scoring the end of cliff hanger opening day Pg 30

Anthony D’Andrade of the Guyana Cricket Board presents the EBD Zone Trophy to Friendship Secondary School captain

Joshua Kalekyezi battled for nearly an hour to defeat Juwell Ritfeld 6-4, 6-3

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyana-times.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 SALES AND MARKETING - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.

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